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Chapter Text

Wen Xu was tired. As he looked at the boxes in his apartment, still scattered about with the few trinkets left to pack up, he found a strange feeling settling into his chest. There was a tightness, similar to the start of a panic attack, but also warmth. He was doing something good for him, for once. Something he wanted to do. Not his father, not his brother, but him . It felt so strange to behave in a way he’d normally deem selfish, rather than putting up with his own misery for the sake of others.

“You have to look out for your brother,” his mother had told him. 

His memories of her were blurry, at this point, but he still remembered that one clearly. He remembered the funny smells of the hospital and the beeping of the machine. He remembered how pale she’d been as she held Wen Chao in her arms, Wen Xu cuddled up next to her on the hospital bed, staring at his younger brother with wide eyes. He’d never seen a baby before.

After that day, her health declined rapidly. Zhuliu had told him that it’d been a decline in her mental health. It plummeted so fast that her body couldn’t keep up while she recovered from the birth. Wen Xu had blamed his brother secretly for his mother dying, once he was old enough to know what postpartum depression was. He never actually acted on those feelings, of course, but he felt them up for many years.

Their father did act on those feelings and Wen Xu, harboring his own bitterness towards his younger son for the death of his wife. He’d treated Wen Chao horribly, even in front of Wen Xu. It was Wen Xu’s feelings that prevented him from diverting his father’s rage fast enough some days. He’d wait until a hand made contact before recommending Wen Chao leave the house for the day or asking Wen Chao if he had homework he should be doing instead of bothering their father. He hadn’t realized how horrible his delay was until the ambulance showed up one day. Zhuliu had called it. He wasn’t sure the specifics, but he knew that Zhuliu took Wen Chao from the main house after that. Wen Xu wasn’t allowed to see him anymore. No one was.

Wen Xu forced himself from his thoughts, shaking his head to clear the red and blue lights from his vision. They weren’t there. That was years ago and Wen Xu was grown now. He was grown and allowed to make his own choices. Choices like leaving home.

Under the cover of night.

While his father wasn’t home.

The warmth left his chest, replaced by a chill. Ah, that was the panic attack starting. He sat down on the edge of his bed, forcing a few slow, deep breaths.

This would be good for him.

It’d be good for all of them.

His hand slowly ran along his left forearm, tracing a long scar hidden beneath the sleeve of his shirt. Despite the unfortunate circumstances that gave him this scar, he didn’t see it as a source of pain or panic. It was a source of home, of calming. Zhuliu said that Wen Xu living was a sign that his mother was still watching over him and that she was making sure he knew it wasn’t his time. Not yet.

Wen Xu didn’t believe in heaven or angels or ghosts, but he did like believing that his mom was still watching over him. Maybe that was why Wen Chao also lived. She was looking after both of them. It wasn’t their time. Not yet.

“Are you ready?”

He turned to see Zhuliu in the door. He gave a weak smile to the older man. Through all of the struggles with his father, Zhuliu had been the paternal figure both boys needed. Wen Xu hated to think how they’d have turned out without him in their lives.

“Kinda. There are just a few more things to pack up.” He stood up from the bed, going to finish taping up one of the remaining boxes. This was the only night this could be done. Their father was visiting the Lan family, working on some negotiations. He typically would have taken Zhuliu or Wen Xu with him to something like this, but he’d actually chosen to go alone this time. Wen Xu was curious, but chose not to question it too much. It allowed them both a chance to get Wen Xu out of the main house.

“I’ve arranged for you to stay in an apartment building a few towns over.” Zhuliu began to finish packing up the remaining boxes. He made sure to lift the heavier ones, despite knowing Wen Xu was perfectly capable. “I pulled some strings and called in some favors to get you the place for free for a year. It’ll give you time to sort things out and give us time to calm your father down.”

They both knew his father wouldn’t react well to Wen Xu being far and to not knowing just how far he was. He’d still do his work remotely, but he would not show up to any family functions during his year away. Zhuliu would present it as needed time away for his mental health to prevent another incident, and it definitely was needed for his mental health. Really, it was a chance to try and prevent him from staying too close to his father as his temper grew worse in his old age.

Zhuliu accompanied Wen Xu all the way to the new apartment. It was modest, nothing like the fancy home he’d grown up in with ceiling-to-floor windows and a room so large, he’d be able to fit two king sized beds if he’d wanted to. Instead he had a simple full sized mattress with simple gray bedding and a single photo on the nightstand. It was taken that day in the hospital, with his mother, Wen Chao, and himself crowded onto the hospital bed together. Wen Xu had that awkward child smile as he faced the camera, still not sure how to make a true smile as he just showed all of his teeth and pressed close to his smiling mother and sleeping baby brother.

Zhuliu must have spent a long time trying to locate that photo. Wen Xu hadn’t seen it in years. His father hated any memories of his mother being visible to them. It was best to forget she existed, in the eyes of Wen Ruohan. Wen Xu assumed it was an attempt to prevent himself from feeling any pain at the memory of his wife’s passing. Really, it was anyone’s guess. His father’s mind was the greatest mystery.

Zhuliu had to go back after emptying the moving truck. He had to work in the morning and had sacrificed his entire night’s sleep to help Wen Xu. With the apartment now empty aside from the boxes stuffed full of necessities, Wen Xu was able to sit and think. He felt anxious, the tightness returning to his chest as he sat on the couch and processed what he was doing. It was the right choice, he knew it was the right choice, but still… he was scared.

He didn’t feel quite ready to sleep, though he knew he needed to. He spent the night unpacking the kitchen. Maybe he could learn to cook, since he’d be relying on himself for the next year. Takeout wasn’t a fantastic option for an entire year’s worth of meal’s. He’d also need to find a gym. Something small, quiet. He didn’t want to attract any attention and would need to conserve funds in case his father tried to cut off his finances. He had money stashed in a separate savings account, of course, but that wouldn’t last forever. He had to be reasonable.

When the kitchen was unpacked, he moved on to the bathroom. Thinking about the next steps for his future was exhausting and he wanted to take a shower. Luckily the bathroom was small, and he didn’t have many toiletries, so he could quickly climb into the hot water and let it soothe his tense muscles. He found himself slowly drifting off in the shower, a sign that it was finally time to sleep. He didn’t dare look at the time as he climbed into bed, thankful that tomorrow was Saturday. He’d have two days to get settled before having to face his father’s wrath on Monday morning.

Chapter Text

Wen Xu found it oddly easy to settle into the town. It wasn’t a large bustling city like he was used to. He could get most places on foot, and anywhere else he could take the small local bus service to reach. It felt like something out of a cheesy romcom and he half expected to be swept off his feet by someone in one of the shops.

Of course, life wasn’t a romcom and he instead had to live in reality.

Mornings were spent in meetings and afternoons spent at the local gym. On the way home, he stopped at a small grocery store and picked up the ingredients for something simple for dinner. He didn’t know how to do anything too crazy, and most of his dishes were baked in the oven since it was harder to burn, but he found himself slowly growing more comfortable in the kitchen. Zhuliu would be proud, he was sure. If he ever got a chance to visit, Wen Xu would make sure to cook for him. Just…not eggs. He was sick of burning every attempt at eggs he made.

The first month went by relatively uneventfully. Aside from his father’s bombardment of emails the first Monday, he went oddly silent after. Wen Xu’s cards still worked and his bank account still received its regular funds every Friday, so he chose not to look a gift horse in the mouth. Perhaps Zhuliu had calmed him down quickly.

It wasn’t until the second month that he bumped into him . The man was typically very hard to miss. Wen Xu had only failed to notice him because he’d been so engrossed in the recipe on his phone. Why did food blogs put multiple paragraphs of stories before the recipe?!

As he collided with the solid back of the other man, his phone clattered to the floor. They both crouched down to grab it, letting Wen Xu’s eyes meet the famously gentle and dark eyes of Lan Huan.

“Odd place to bump into you,” Lan Huan commented with a soft smile.

Wen Xu felt a pit settle into his stomach. “I could say the same for you.”

They both stood up, Lan Huan placing the phone gently into Wen Xu’s hand. “This town’s been a source of escape for me for a few years,” he admitted. “When work gets to be overwhelming, I come to hide here for a few weeks.” His smile turned sheepish. “Would it be too selfish of me to ask you not pass along that you know I’m here?”

Wen Xu felt a little bit of relief knowing that Lan Huan’s being here was a secret. “I won’t tell if you don’t tell. I’m here on a retreat as well.”

“Then it’s fortuitous that we bumped into each other. You should come by some time. I’ll make you dinner as thanks for keeping my secret.”

“There’s no need, so long as you keep mine.” Honestly, the thought of being alone with a Lan made him uneasy.

Lan Huan’s smile faltered a bit. “I see…” He pursed his lips. “Well, what if I say it’s as an apology for standing in your way?”

Wen Xu raised an eyebrow. “You’re going to keep finding excuses until I agree, aren’t you?”

“Perhaps.”

He sighed and unlocked his phone. He pulled up the contact list and offered it to Lan Huan. “Add your contact in. I’ll reach out if I have a free day and, if you happen to be in town, I’ll let you treat me to dinner.”

If someone had told him Lan Huan was related to Xihe and had the power to guide the sun into rooms instead of around the Earth, he’d honestly believe it for a moment. The warmth even his gentlest smile gave off was crazy. Wen Xu didn’t think it was possible for someone to just always seem so happy.

Lan Huan added his contact and the two parted ways. Wen Xu went back to looking for his grocery list at the bottom of the obscenely long blog post and Lan Huan went back to doing…whatever he’d been doing before. Wen Xu didn’t keep track because he honestly didn’t care.

It was over a week before he reached out to Lan Huan. July was always a hard month for him and he was prone to drinking even during the weekdays, especially as time grew closer to the twelfth. It was during one of those drunk nights as he flipped through his phone that he dialed the number he’d received in the grocery store. He couldn’t quite remember what words he spoke. He vaguely remembered admitting he was drunk and that he didn’t want to be alone. He remembered letting Lan Huan know his address despite swearing he’d never tell it to anyone. He remembered opening the door and smelling really good food and almost falling into Lan Huan’s arms.

He remembered thinking Lan Huan’s eyes were really pretty and it was a shame the Lan family was against drinking and premarital sex.

When Wen Xu woke up the next morning, his body immediately protested with a vengeance. How dare he survive the night after drinking that much alcohol?! He groaned at the invading light of the morning, burying his face in the warm chest he was pressed again. He felt fingers carding through his hair, gently massaging his aching scalp as if to soothe the pain. That gentle notion was enough to snap him from his self pity enough to sit up - which he immediately regretted - and take in the sight of Lan Huan in his bed without a shirt.

“What the fuck happened last night?!”

Lan Huan was oddly calm as he sat up. “You drank so much that you threw up. I did my best to get you in the shower, but you pulled me right in with you. I cleaned us both off of any remaining vomit and got you in bed. And then you refused to release me.” He gave him a reassuring smile. “We didn’t do anything inappropriate. I promise.”

Wen Xu honestly wasn’t sure whether he was upset or not that nothing had happened. Don’t get him wrong, he definitely preferred women, but he wouldn’t have minded the ego stroke that he’d gotten Lan Huan to break the Lan family rules and gotten him to sleep with him, even if it was out of pity. He bet Lan Xichen would look pretty in bed, moaning for him. Oh well.

“Wen Xu, if you don’t mind me asking… is it okay if I stop by again tonight?”

Wen Xu was pulled from his thoughts, his heart catching in his throat. Lan Huan looked sincere. He didn’t seem to have any malicious intent behind the words, no sign of any schemes. Maybe he just had a really good poker face, though. “Why?”

“You were talking quite a bit,” Lan Huan admitted. “You mentioned that the anniversary of your mother’s death is this week. I took that to be the reason for your heavy drinking on a Thursday night.”

Wen Xu felt his cheeks heat up. He wasn’t sure if it was rage towards himself or embarrassment. Maybe both. “So what?” He knew he was being needlessly harsh, but he didn’t enjoy the idea of Lan Huan being nice to him out of pity.

“It’s better to drink with company. And safer.”

Wen Xu felt an ache in his chest. “I’m not drinking if you’re here.”

“Do you want to drink?”

“I mean, yeah…that’s the whole point.”

“What if I drink with you?”

Wen Xu was startled at that. “Isn’t it against Lan rules to drink?”

“Every rule has exceptions. Plus…it could be another secret between us.”

Wen Xu felt his heart skip a beat. He didn’t like that, but he also definitely preferred the idea of having someone to make sure he didn’t drink himself to death. “Do whatever you want. But if you show up, you better bring your own alcohol.”

“Deal.”

Chapter Text

It turned out that Lan Huan was a lightweight. A single shot in and he was like an entirely different person. Wen Xu found it a little cute how relaxed and informal he had become.

“I don’t know why I’m surprised you can’t handle your alcohol,” he teased as Lan Huan leaned against him. His entire face was flushed even to his ears. “I guess I expected that the effortlessly perfect Lan Huan would be good at even drinking.”

Lan Huan actually huffed at that, but he was quickly giggling right after. “Not at all!!!” he exclaimed. “I’m far from perfect!!!”

He was a bit loud in his drunken excitement. Despite the ache it gave Wen Xu’s ears, he was honestly too buzzed himself to care. “Have you seen yourself, pretty boy? Pretty sure I remember you being dubbed ‘Most Perfect Student’ every year in high school and college.”

Lan Huan shook his head with a pout. “No!!! I lost to A-Yao that one time-!!!”

“That’s only because he rigged the votes,” Wen Xu said with a shrug. It wasn’t very well known, but he’d gotten into the college with the Wen family’s help and had rigged the votes with the Wen family’s help. Wen Xu had only agreed to see Lan Huan lose once.

Lan Huan shrugged and laid back on the couch with a grin. “It was nice to lose!!! I got to not be the focus for once!!!”

Wen Xu leaned towards him a bit as he raised an eyebrow. “Oh? You don’t like to be the center of attention?”

Lan Huan shook his head. “Wanna relax!!!”

“What about when dating someone, though? Wouldn’t you want them to dote on you?”

Another shake of the head. “I wanna spoil the guy I like!!!”

That caught Wen Xu off guard. “So you like men?”

Lan Huan blinked a few moments before putting a finger to his lips and going, “Shhh!!!” He smiled and sat up, suddenly inches from Wen Xu’s face. “I actually have someone I’m interested in!!! Wanna know who?” His voice dropped at the question. It was the first time he’d been quiet since taking the shot.

“Kinda, yeah,” Wen Xu admitted, his own voice dropping in volume to match the mood.

“Wen Xu.”

Wen Xu stared at him for a moment. “Lan Huan, you realize I’m Wen Xu, right?”

Lan Huan blinked a few times, as if needing a moment to register the words. “Oh. Oops.” He giggled. “He’s cute, though!!! I’ve wanted to get closer to him since we were in school together!!!”

Wen Xu wondered if the man was too drunk to remember who he was drinking with. He hesitated, feeling his heart racing in his chest. “Yeah? Would you wanna kiss him if he’d let you?”

Lan Huan nodded. “I’ve never done it before, though!!!”

Wen Xu hesitated. He reached over to the alcohol and took a long drink. It burned as it went down, but he really needed some liquid courage. As he felt the warmth settling into him, he let his next words slip out. “Then you should kiss him. Now. Right now. Before I chicken out.”

There was only a moment’s pause before lips crashed into his. It was messy, but he expected as much from a man who was drunk and had never kissed anyone before. What he hadn’t expected was Lan Huan pulling him right into his lap. He felt small in his lap, despite their sizes not being that different. He didn’t know how that made him feel and the alcohol was making it hard to think about it for long. His mind was growing a bit fuzzy around the edges as he felt himself melting into the kiss. Lan Huan was a quick learner, even while drunk, and made sure to match Wen Xu’s actions. When Wen Xu parted his lips with a soft breath, Lan Huan confidently pushed a tongue past his lips. A soft whimper escaped him as he felt that tongue exploring his mouth, strong hands easily holding his hips against Lan Huan’s. His brain was a mess, but it was becoming easier to sort through thoughts as Lan Huan and him made out on the couch. All he could think of was the feeling of Lan Huan pressed against him and the pressure growing in his pants as he realized that he was really enjoying kissing him.

When their lips finally parted, Lan Huan confidently went to work on his neck. His lips began to make their way along the sensitive skin, leaving marks scattered in his wake. Wen Xu was shocked at how aggressive the man could be despite his inexperience. He was like a beast, acting on instinct to mark its mate.

Which was a very dangerous thought for Wen Xu.

He didn’t expect to be into that thought, but it felt so nice to think of someone wanting him. Not for power or money or anything like that. Wen Xu didn’t have anything to offer that Lan Huan didn’t already have aside from himself and, honestly, Wen Xu was about ready to let Lan Huan have that too. The large, strong hands were already wandering his body, feeling along each curve and dip of his abdomen as he pushed up the dress shirt Wen Xu wore. Lan Huan seemed to be getting frustrated at the shirt being in the way, though, and eagerly pulled it open with a strength that Wen Xu found terrifying and a little hot. His heart was racing as the lips wandered down his chest, sucking and biting at a nipple in a way that drew sounds from Wen Xu as easily as he’d played the guqin back in high school. 

Not that Wen Xu would ever admit to going to any of his guqin performances back then or anything.

Lan Huan slowly pushed the shirt from Wen Xu’s shoulders and off his arms. With his entire abdomen bare, there was no hiding the long scar on his arm. It was inevitable that Lan Huan’s eyes would land on them, two fingers tracing along it slowly. He opened his mouth, as if to question it, and Wen Xu felt that cold tightness in his chest again. He grabbed Lan Huan’s hand in a tight grip, pulling it away as a cold sweat began forming on his body.

“Don’t.”

It was a single word, but it conveyed enough for Lan Huan.

Don’t touch. Don’t ask. Don’t acknowledge it. I’m not ready yet.

Lan Huan’s lips drifted up, capturing Wen Xu’s in a much sweeter kiss this time. “Okay.” His voice was soft, his hand twisting in Wen Xu’s hold to instead lace their fingers together. “I won’t. Tell me what you’re okay with.”

Wen Xu took a slow breath. He had to compose himself. The acknowledgement of it, no matter how brief, had caused his mind to start to sober up. He didn’t like that. He didn’t like thinking. He just wanted this to be quick and heated and brief. “I need a drink,” he mumbled. “Please. We can continue after, I just…”

Lan Huan’s gaze stung. It was so gentle. It made Wen Xu want to throw up. He didn’t want his pity. He slowly climbed out of his lap, stumbling a little as he regained his bearings. The room was spinning a little. He grabbed the bottle, finishing it off. It burned so much. He felt tears in his eyes as he stumbled to the bathroom, unable to fight off the urge to be sick any longer. 

Everything burned even more coming back up.

He heard the sink run and saw from the corner of his eye Lan Huan with a cup of water. He reluctantly took it, but made sure not to look at his face. He didn’t want to see that pitying look.

“Sorry,” Wen Xu mumbled.

“Don’t apologize.” Lan Huan was so quiet, so soft, so gentle. He must have sobered up pretty quickly from Wen Xu’s freakout. “You didn’t do anything to apologize for. I should be the one apologizing. I should have known-”

“Don’t.” Wen Xu squeezed his eyes shut, curling in on himself a bit. “Don’t. I don’t want your pity.”

“It’s not pity.” Lan Huan paused. When he spoke again, he sounded closer. “I meant what I said. About being interested in you. When I saw you in the grocery store, I thought it was fate. Why else would we have met each other here of all places? There are countless towns we both could have hidden away in, but we both chose this one. I thought it was a good chance to do what I was too scared to do back in school.”

Wen Xu hugged his knees to his chest. “Why would you be interested in me? Of all people. Our families literally hate each other.”

Lan Huan sat beside him, giving his shoulder a small nudge. “Not necessarily. Your father visits my uncle pretty frequently lately.” He hummed a bit. “But back in school you felt…similar. You almost always went straight home or to go pick up your brother from school. You were always reminding him to not be too loud in the car if your father was there with you. You carried his bag for him. You clearly cared for him. But there was a rigidness in how you moved, like you were bound by your own rules, ones that none of us know.” There was a pause. “The Lan sect has our rules, and we’re very open about them. However, I knew by watching you that there were families that also had rules that others weren’t supposed to know about. I thought it was really admirable that you worked so hard to follow those rules, even from a young age.”

Wen Xu hadn’t realized anyone had noticed any of that, honestly. He didn’t know how to feel about it. Subconsciously, though, his hold on his knees relaxed a little.

“I was worried when you missed graduation in college. No one knew what happened. Wen Zhuliu came to pick up your diploma, but all he could tell us was that you’d had a family emergency.” Lan Huan seemed to be putting pieces together. “It felt like high school all over again. You’d missed it for a family emergency back then, too. I was worried both times that I wouldn’t see you again and that I’d missed my chance. ‘I’ll tell him next time,’ I told myself. ‘I’ll actually befriend him and ask for his number.’ But…after college, I didn’t see you except when you were with your father. Watching how you behaved with him, I was…worried that it was a bad idea to reach out. I was so happy that I saw you in the grocery store that day. I thought it was finally my chance. I checked my phone every night like I was back in high school again, hoping for your text or call. It’s…honestly embarrassing to admit.”

Wen Xu risked a glance over at Lan Huan. His ears were red. It was cute.

“I think, if I could do anything differently, I’d approach you in high school. I’d ask for your number. I’d befriend you. Maybe eventually ask you out.” Lan Huan met his gaze and Wen Xu felt his own face heating up. “I feel like I’m doing it all out of order and rushing things and messing up now, but…I do want to. If you’ll have me.”

Wen Xu really wished he had some alcohol still in his system to blame his impulsive answer on. Instead, it was all him and his stupid heart as he quietly replied, “Okay.”

Chapter Text

Wen Xu wasn’t the dating type. His father was notoriously strict and had made his life a living hell the last time he attempted to date without approval. The poor girl had been hospitalized and ultimately was paid enough to leave the country altogether. Wen Xu didn’t like remembering her because he still blamed himself.

Since then, he had dated absolutely no one. He had no clue what it meant to date someone now or what would be expected of him. Especially when that someone was just as high profile as he was. His ex was someone he could at least hide a bit, since she had just been a random classmate he’d clicked with. Lan Huan was likely involved with the media even more than Wen Xu was, especially with the launch of a new children’s hospital that he’d spearheaded.

Not that Wen Xu kept track of what Lan Huan did or spent the night googling him to see if he’d missed anything.

Ultimately, their first date wouldn’t be for a while, anyway. Lan Huan had to head back home for a few weeks due to some issues with the hospital’s systems. It wasn’t anything too major, but it’d cause a headache with the accounting department. Lan Huan had explained that for parents below a certain income level, they would not be charged for care for their children.

“It’s important to look out for everyone, not just those that can pay,” he’d explained. Wen Xu found it admirable, especially since it was the kind of thing his father would never consider and he’d be reprimanded for suggesting.

During the time apart, Lan Huan still texted Wen Xu. He’d send him a photo of a bed of flowers they’d planted outside the hospital with the help of a children’s scout group. He’d send photos of the mural he was helping a middle school class with in the entrance of the building. He’d show photos of the handprints he’d helped lift elementary school students up to leave even in high places on the walls of one hallway. It seemed like he was having fun even while working. Wen Xu was a little jealous.

Wen Xu’s own work was tedious. It was mostly numbers and typing and emails. He didn’t interact with others much unless it was to call and ask why something was done wrong. He hated it. His young cousin was only given the least important roles and still tended to make mistakes and Wen Xu was the only in charge of correcting him because they couldn’t fire him. It’d look bad to fire a family member when their priority on things had always been family. They were a “family owned” business, even if their business was worth billions at this point. It would never go to someone without the name “Wen.”

Wen Xu sighed as he closed his laptop. The sun had long set. Even when not working in the office, he managed to work overtime. He had wanted to look into local date spots and things he could do when Lan Huan got back. Now it was late and he was tired and he hadn’t seen Lan Huan for a few weeks. The last text had been a few hours before. Lan Huan had asked what he was making for dinner. Wen Xu had replied that he’d probably just order fast food if he didn’t get off in time. It was exhausting to cook after working late. Lan Huan had suggested a local Italian restaurant that did takeout orders and they’d discussed the menu and what looked good. Wen Xu joked that he could never say no to a restaurant with good stuffed shells. Lan Huan promised to treat him to a meal there one day. Maybe that could be their first date.

Honestly, though, the thought of sitting down at a restaurant for a first date actually sounded terrible. It would be so tense and awkward. He didn’t even know what small talk they’d make in such a tense setting.

He sighed and laid out on the couch. He should shower and change into sweats. That’d be nice. Then he could look for local events taking place when Lan Huan returned next week. He just had to get up off of the couch which felt really nice after a day of sitting at his desk. It was probably a losing battle, but he told himself he couldn’t order delivery until after he showered! He had to get up!

He was torn from his internal struggle against the couch by a knock on his door. He reluctantly got up, resisting the urge to groan a bit as he did. He wasn’t expecting anything, but it was possible that Zhuliu had sent him a package. He liked to surprise Wen Xu with small things that he figured he’d need.

What was at the door, however, was not a delivery man nor a package. Instead it was Lan Huan dressed in a simple button down and jeans, a reusable bag in one hand which seemed to be giving off an amazing smell that had Wen Xu’s stomach growling. A flush rose to his cheeks at the sound and a soft laugh left Lan Huan’s lips when he heard it. “I suppose I have good timing.”

Wen Xu gave him a small smile. “Considering I was losing a battle against my couch to get up, absolutely.” He stepped aside to let Lan Huan into his apartment. “I wasn’t expecting you until next week.”

“We finished fixing things faster than expected, so I wanted to see you.” Wen Xu could actually feel the heat on his face at that comment. “I brought stuffed shells.”

Wen Xu was feeling awfully spoiled as he watched Lan Huan set the bag on the small dining room table and begin to remove the food. It wasn’t just stuffed shells. There were breadsticks, soup, and what looked like alfredo. It all smelled amazing. He hurried to get them both plates and silverware from the kitchen.

“You didn’t have to bring me dinner,” Wen Xu pointed out. “I know I don’t exactly live close. You must be exhausted from the drive.” He retrieved two glasses. “Wine ok? Or water?”

Lan Huan gave him a gentle smile. “I wanted to see you, though. Ah- and water’s okay. Unless you wanted me to stay the night? I can’t drive to my place if I drink.”

Wen Xu flushed again. Lan Huan was so casual about these things and it made him feel so inexperienced, like he was playing out of his league. “You can stay. You brought me dinner after driving all this way.” He paused. “I don’t know if my clothes will fit your tall ass, though.”

Lan Huan laughed. It was a nice sound. Wen Xu wasn’t going to admit that he missed it. “Only one way to know, right?”

They both ate their dinner. The meal being at home made it easier for Wen Xu. They talked as casually as they’d been over text. Lan Huan asked about work, Wen Xu asked about the projects he’d been doing around the hospital. That particularly had Lan Huan’s eyes light up as he happily described the various art projects they’d been doing to make the hospital feel more welcoming.

“I’m not very artistic myself, but I enjoyed getting to spend time with the kids as they prepared things.” He pulled out his phone to pull up a picture. In it was a section of one of the murals featuring a black snake with a red bow. Even as a painted snake, the puppy-like mouth and tongue sticking out made it clear the intention was to show that it was happy. “Meng Yao joked that I must have been desperate to get back if even my mural contributions resembled you.”

Wen Xu stared at the snake for a moment before laughing. “Oh? Is it meant to be me?” He couldn’t resist the urge to tease a bit. “Are you going to go visit it when you miss me?”

Lan Huan hummed in thought, as if carefully considering the question. “Perhaps. Though I’d rather just ask you to send me a photo.”

Wen Xu felt his cheeks heat up. Even when he was trying to get a reaction from Lan Huan, he easily turned it around to something to make his heart race instead. “Maybe. I don’t take a lot of photos.”

Lan Huan nodded in understanding. “Is it okay if I take some, though? Like while we’re together?”

He carefully considered it. “Maybe.” He paused. “As long as you don’t show anyway, that’s fine, I think.” He gave a slow nod to himself. As long as no one saw, his father wouldn’t know where he was.

“Of course. Now… let’s clean up and see if those clothes of yours will fit me.”

Chapter Text

Wen Xu couldn’t quite put into words how it felt to wake up beside Lan Huan. This was the first time he remembered going to bed with him, so he at least knew confidently that nothing had happened. Considering how clumsily he was making his way through this relationship, he would have been really upset if he’d forgotten anything significant. It felt like every moment was a moment he didn’t want to miss, as cheesy as that felt.

It was almost enough to make him want to quit drinking. Not quite enough, but close.

To Wen Xu, Lan Huan was like this unreachable goal. Not in terms of academics or capabilities in business. They were both very hard working and had a lot to offer in the professional world. What Wen Xu lacked in charity work due to his father’s disinterest in doing it, he made up for with his ability to manage so many moving pieces of an organization despite not officially running it. It’d likely be enough to drive a normal person to insanity. Of course, Wen Xu’s mental state was pretty bad and best described as “actively decaying,” no matter how much he may try to ignore that.

What Lan Huan had that Wen Xu didn’t was a healthy relationship with his family. Wen Xu had seen the way the Lans interacted at professional functions. It was clear that Lan Huan cared for Lan Zhan and it was clear that he was happy every time Lan Zhan was at an event. Their father was ill and their uncle was the one running the business, but even he showed clear pride and love for them. Compared to the Lans, the Wen family was a pile of shattered glass which would cut anyone stupid enough to try to put the pieces back together. Wen Xu’s last attempt at a relationship was a prime example of that. If she hadn’t agreed to leave… 

Long fingers combed through Wen Xu’s hair, distracting him from the thoughts spiraling in his head. He finally tilted his head up from where it rested on Lan Huan’s chest. He shouldn’t have been shocked that Lan Huan was already awake. The man was always an early riser, sending Wen Xu photos of his breakfast and asking what Wen Xu was eating, getting him to send photos back. It was what had shifted Wen Xu’s breakfasts from protein shakes to actual food - Lan Huan’s breakfasts looked better than his and he wanted to beat that as much as he could within his own skill. That may have been Lan Huan’s goal, though.

“Sleep well?” Lan Huan asked.

Wen Xu gave a small hum in response, letting his eyes fall closed again. “Don’t wanna get up.”

Lan Huan chuckled softly. “That’s fine. Take your time. I quite like the view.”

Well, now Wen Xu was going to get up. He quickly sat up and headed to the bathroom so he could start up a shower. The steam from the hot water would be a great excuse as to why his face was so red and maybe why his heart was racing so fast.

“Do you mind if I start breakfast while you shower?” Lan Huan called from the doorway of the bathroom.

“Yeah, help yourself,” Wen Xu replied. He hadn’t gotten to have Lan Huan’s homemade breakfast before, so he was kind of excited. He wanted to try it so bad. He hurried through his shower, coming out with his hair still wet and towel around his neck. The sight of Lan Huan at home in his kitchen, cooking with no shirt and pants that were just a little short on him was nice. Wen Xu really liked the domestic vibe it gave off and wouldn’t mind getting used to it. Of course, he’d probably need to get Lan Huan some clothes for his place if that was something he wanted to see regularly.

“How do you like your eggs?” Lan Huan asked, flashing that signature smile.

Wen Xu forced himself from his fantasies of future mornings together. “I’m not picky. I’ll take them however you want yours.” Somehow asking for a specific style of eggs felt weird. He knew that Lan Huan could easily make whatever he asked, but he still didn’t want to be a bother.

Of course, Lan Huan still managed to easily make eggs that Wen Xu found extremely difficult - over easy. He somehow always managed to have them stick to the pan or cooked the yolk too much or they busted as he was making them, getting yolk all over the pan and forcing him to cook the yolk, anyway.

“Did anyone ever tell you that you should be less good at cooking?” Wen Xu gave him a small nudge before going to get juice from the fridge. “I still can’t manage to do over easy eggs, you jerk.” There was no animosity in his voice. Rather, he was so casual it wouldn’t have been too shocking for him to stick out his tongue if not for the fact that he was an adult with a job and would die of embarrassment at the thought of doing so.

Lan Huan’s response, of course, was that light laugh that Wen Xu was growing quite used to. “I can teach you next time.” He served their plates and brought them to the table. “I enjoy cooking for myself, since it gives me the power to make sure I have full control of my food. I’m sure I’d enjoy teaching you just as much.”

Wen Xu thought for a moment. “That makes it sound like you have foods you don’t like.”

“I’ll eat anything served to me,” Lan Huan explained. “It’d be rude not to. However, I do have a limit over how spicy I like things. I’m used to a quite mild diet. Growing up, we weren’t given much variety. I’ve learned I don’t really like food that is too spicy, but I do enjoy getting to try a wide variety of flavors and dishes.”

“I think my family probably had a decent variety of foods, but that’s because Zhuliu didn’t want us to grow up to be picky eaters. He managed my diet more or less until I moved out.” Wen Xu thought for a moment. “I still don’t like green peppers, though.”

Lan Huan smiled fondly at him. “Noted. I’ll make sure they’re not included in recipes I make for us.”

Once breakfast was finished, they washed the dishes together. They didn’t talk much as they cleaned everything up, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. In fact, it was quite the opposite. It was a comfortable silence, neither feeling pressured to fill it with chatter. Wen Xu couldn’t remember the last time he’d been so comfortable just being beside someone. It felt surreal. Everything about Lan Huan was surreal, though. Wen Xu honestly didn’t want the morning to end.

“Do you have to head back soon?” Wen Xu asked once everything was put up.

Lan Huan’s face gave nothing away. Wen Xu wished he could know what he was thinking. “Not yet. Since the project is finished, I can have the weekend to myself.” His fingers moved to slowly take Wen Xu’s hand. “Did you want me to head back?”

Wen Xu hated being asked that because it was embarrassing to admit. He could feel his cheeks heating up. “Not necessarily.”

“If you’d like, we could get dressed and go out for the day. Or I’d be happy just spending the day here with you.”

“Unfortunately, my apartment’s entertaining capabilities end at getting drunk and eating together,” Wen Xu said with a small smile. “It may be better to go out.”

“I find you perfectly entertaining just by yourself,” Lan Huan countered. “However, I do know that there is a small local aquarium a short drive from town. It’s not crazy like the aquarium back home, but it does make for a great day trip.”

“I’ve never actually been to an aquarium.”

Lan Huan’s eyes widened just a little. “Then we both better get dressed. I’m taking you to your first aquarium.”

Wen Xu wasn’t sure what he expected. He’d seen aquariums in shows and movies, of course, but they never gave the full image. It was always a scene in front of the flashiest tanks before one person says something romantic or they kiss or something. What really awaited them was a large, two-story building with events on the different floors and crowds of people of all ages enjoying their day together. Wen Xu even spotted a few old couples going out together, some accompanied by grandchildren and their parents. It was nice to see a place where so many people were enjoying themselves.

The building contained both fresh and salt water fish from around the world. Each tank had information near it explaining about the different creatures inside and where they were from. Wen Xu found himself more interested in watching the fish swim than reading the information on them, though. He didn’t even think twice about how long he spent pressing buttons at the moon jellyfish exhibit to watch how the colors affected their appearance. When they reached an exhibit with a species of octopus, he was briefly distracted by what seemed to be children’s toys thrown into the tank. He was about to ask how anyone got those in there before Lan Huan chimed in.

“The toys are a form of enrichment. Octopi are extremely intelligent creatures. Some will even refuse food if it isn’t given to them in a way that they have to work for.” He pointed to the sign explaining that the toys were, indeed, not just junk thrown in there, but something chosen specifically for the octopus.

They took a break to enjoy shaved ice while the mermaid show took place. “You’d make a good merman,” Wen Xu said as they watched a few merman join in for part of the performance.

Lan Huan laughed. “That’d require me to hold my breath for quite a while. I think even I wouldn’t last as long as they do. But you briefly were on the swim team in high school, weren’t you?”

“It wasn’t for long. My dad made me quit, since he didn’t see it was beneficial to running the business. I can’t even remember the last time I went swimming.”

Lan Huan flashed him a smile. “Maybe we can plan a trip to the pool for our next date.”

“Not a chance.” Wen Xu gave him a sad smile. “I find rash guards too itchy.” He didn’t specify why he’d wear one. The sleeve over one arm, typically reserved for hiding tattoos, was all that was needed to explain why. Even in the blazing heat, Wen Xu wouldn’t let the scar show.

“I’ll just have to invent something else to make it possible.”

Wen Xu laughed. “Knowing you, I actually think you’d be the one person to come up with a way.”

After the performance was done and their shaved ice was finished, they toured more of the aquarium. Wen Xu really liked watching the sharks. Especially the shark tunnel. They ended up going through it at least four times, with Lan Huan needing to hold Wen Xu’s hand as they walked for three of those trips so that Wen Xu wouldn’t run into anyone as he watched the sharks swim above them. He was absolutely captivated. They did return to play with the lights by the moon jellyfish again once or twice and Wen Xu stared awfully hard at the cuttlefish. “Their shape is weird, even for the ocean,” he’d explained. There’d also been an exhibit on lionfish and their risks in certain habitats throughout the world. Wen Xu wasn’t great at science, but even he understood what “invasive” meant when describing an animal. He thought he remembered a video of a guy hunting lionfish to feed to sharks. He just really liked watching the sharks act so cute.

The last stop of the trip was the gift shop and, despite Wen Xu’s protests, Lan Huan insisted on buying him both a t-shirt and a large shark stuffed animal.

“It was quite clear which sea creature was your favorite.” He casually paid for the items - along with a few souvenirs for his family - and handed the reusable bag with the t-shirt and shark to Wen Xu. “Maybe next time I paint a mural, I’ll find a way to make the shark resemble you, as well.”

“I’d honestly be lying if I said I’m not curious on how you’d pull that off.” Wen Xu laughed and paid for the souvenirs he’d picked out as well. They weren’t anything crazy, just two small keychains. Wen Zhuliu only drove the family car, but he was also the only one that drove it. Plus he had an apartment. Surely he could put a keychain on something. And the other was for Wen Chao. Zhuliu had told him that he’d recently acquired a motorcycle. While Wen Xu didn’t approve of him driving something so dangerous, he knew that his approval didn’t hold any significance to Wen Chao. Wen Chao was much more free than he was, even now that Wen Xu was essentially hiding from their father.

The drive back to Wen Xu’s apartment was much more relaxed. He’d admittedly been a little nervous on the way to the aquarium. It was their first time going out and it was his first time going to an aquarium. He’d underestimated how easily he’d relax while there. Thinking back, he must have looked really goofy, especially because he found an excuse to go through the shark tunnel four times. And Lan Huan agreed every time. He didn’t seem to judge him or seem annoyed to revisit the same exhibit so much. In fact, he’d seemed to be enjoying himself. Wen Xu didn’t think he’d ever seen anyone look at him as fondly as Lan Huan did. It made his chest tighten and his heart race, but he didn’t hate it. It was a comfortable feeling somehow.

Wen Xu was really lucky he’d met Lan Huan.

As they reached Wen Xu’s apartment door - because of course Lan Huan walked him to the door - he found himself wishing Lan huan wouldn’t leave. In fact, he found himself wishing for a lot of things. His heart was racing as he unlocked the door, not opening it yet. He gave a small glance to Lan Huan, who was just smiling at him with those fond eyes he’d had on him from the start.

“I had fun today,” Wen Xu finally said.

“I’m glad.” Lan Huan’s voice was gentle, somehow making his heart race faster.

He slowly turned the knob to his apartment, glancing up at Lan Huan again. He wished just a little that he was drunk so he wouldn’t feel so nervous about what he wanted to do. He took a deep breath and grabbed Lan Huan’s shirt collar to pull him down as he kissed him. Lan Huan returned the kiss with so much confidence that Wen Xu was half tempted to accuse him of expecting it. Luckily for him, though, Wen Xu couldn’t make any accusations while his lips were eagerly moving against Lan Huan’s. His mind was melting even more, his body finally relaxing again as he felt Lan Huan’s warm body pressing to his, guiding him inside and out of view from any nosey neighbors. As the door shut behind them, Wen Xu was guided against a wall, his bags of souvenirs dropping to the ground behind him. He obediently parted his lips for Lan Huan, letting himself just melt for the taller man.

Maybe he wouldn’t be entirely against letting Lan Huan take the lead this time. It might feel nice to just give up control to him in a way he hadn’t been able to give it up to anyone else.

Chapter Text

Lan Huan’s hands moved slowly as they removed Wen Xu’s shirt, as if giving him every moment to ask for them to stop. Wen Xu didn’t intend to ask him to stop, though. Once the shirt was off, they stared in silence for a moment, their breath already coming in soft pants from the intense makeout session that preceded this moment. Wen Xu slowly reached out, his fingers working Lan Huan’s shirt open. Lan Huan let him work at his own pace and to push the shirt from his shoulders. With both of them now shirtless, it felt like an unsaid agreement between them both.

I want this. I want to keep going.

Wen Xu’s hand slowly took Lan Huan’s, leading him back towards the bedroom. His heart was racing and, for the first time, he was grateful that his apartment was relatively small.

He sat on the edge of the bed, looking up at Lan Huan. He wondered what was going through his brain as he looked at Wen Xu. He swallowed the lump in his throat, willing himself to speak despite his nerves.

“Penny for your thoughts?”

Lan Huan slowly knelt before him, smiling up from where he now sat on the ground. “I was thinking that, if this is a dream, I hope I’ll at least get to make it to the end. I want to see every face you can make for me.”

Wen Xu could feel the heat rising to his face. He leaned in, placing a few soft kisses to Lan Huan’s neck before biting down. The sound the Lan made went straight to his already aching dick. He didn’t realize the man could moan like that. When he pulled away, he felt the flames of desire being fanned again as he admired the flush spreading across Lan Huan’s face.

“Now you know it’s not a dream. It’s real.”

Lan Huan smiled, leaning in to kiss Wen Xu again. He kept it brief this time, their lips still brushing over one another as he spoke again. “Then I’ll really have to take my time savoring this, since I know there’s no risk of waking up.”

Wen Xu’s heart skipped a beat, his arms slowly moving to wrap around Lan Huan’s shoulders.

Slowly, Lan Huan’s lips explored his neck, his collarbones, his chest. He didn’t leave marks, but simply left a trail of kisses. Somehow, the lack of marks made Wen Xu even more on edge, waiting for the moment one would appear but also finding himself feeling a little overwhelmed that one never came. He realized that he wanted a few. A reminder that Lan Huan wanted him.

A reminder that he wanted to be claimed.

“Lan Huan,” he breathed softly, struggling to get his thoughts to focus as soft lips teased a nipple and large hands squeezed at his thighs, “not leaving any marks?” He tried to sound teasing, but he honestly had no clue if it came across like that. The look on Lan Huan’s face when Wen Xu looked up told him that he probably sounded more pathetic than teasing. Why else would Lan Huan be looking at him so gently, as if he was a crying child asking for a hug?

“Do you want me to be possessive?” Lan Huan asked, his hands slowly moving to Wen Xu’s waist. “I was worried you might be uncomfortable if I was.”

Wen Xu felt his words catching in his throat. “Is it wrong to want to feel wanted?”

Lan Huan slowly moved to undo Wen Xu’s belt and pants as he leaned up to kiss him. It was so gentle, yet it still managed to make his head spin. “There is nothing I’ve wanted to possess more than you. It’s honestly taking a lot of effort to hold myself back from just devouring you.”

Fuck. Wen Xu used Lan Huan’s shoulders as support to lift his hips so he could be stripped of his pants and underwear. He now only wore the sleeve covering his left forearm. “Please. Devour me.” Even he could hear the desperation in his own voice. “I need this.”

Lan Huan’s smile never faded. Even as he began kissing along his abdomen again, Wen Xu could feel it. A trail of hickeys slowly appeared as he was kissed and marked in a random rhythm that Wen Xu couldn’t follow. He felt his anticipation growing as Lan Huan worked further south, eventually reaching his thighs. Wen Xu hadn’t expected the loving touches to continue that far down, but Lan Huan completely ignored his aching dick as he marked up one of his thighs. He was so close to where Wen Xu actually needed him, but still ignoring it. Wen Xu’s sounds gradually gave way to a small whine, his other thigh hooking over Lan Huan’s shoulder in an attempt to pull him closer to where he actually needed attention. A soft chuckle and a kiss to the tip was the response, just a ghost of a touch that caused Wen Xu to gasp.

“Please.” When did Wen Xu become so pathetic as to beg someone this much? Was he that pent up, or was it because it was Lan Huan? He risked a glance down at Lan Huan, his eyes meeting the warmth in Lan Huan’s and his heart skipping may more beats than were healthy. Yeah, it was because it was Lan Huan.

“Do you have any lube? It may be better to kill two birds with one stone, while I’m down here.”

Wen Xu honestly hadn’t bottomed before. He found himself feeling a bit nervous, but his body still moved on its own to fulfill Lan Huan’s request. He grabbed a bottle from his nightstand, pulling off the plastic sealing the container. Lan Huan didn’t let him stay that far back on the bed, though. He pulled him right back to the edge with an ease that went right through Wen Xu like a small jolt of electricity. Had he always been that strong? He wondered what it would be like if he managed to make Lan Huan lose control and really devour him like an animal.

His thoughts were interrupted by a finger slowly pressed into him. It felt weird, but not too uncomfortable. The sensation was made more comfortable by the lips that slowly wrapped around his length, finally giving Wen Xu the attention he craved.

The finger moved slowly, easing a way for itself as Wen Xu’s attention was split between it and the tongue pressing to the underside of his dick. It was a lot. More than he knew how to respond with. A breathy moan escaped him and it may have sounded like Lan Huan’s name, but he honestly couldn’t tell. Somehow, despite all the blood that had rushed south, he had enough to pound loudly in his ears as he was worked open by long, talented fingers that were lightly calloused and had experience playing various instruments that Wen Xu definitely hadn’t secretly watched him practice back in school.

He wondered what things would have been like if he’d talked to Lan Huan and gave him a chance to be anything other than a school rival.

“Focus on me, A-Xu.”

“Fuck-” Wen Xu’s face heated up, his eyes locking on Lan Huan’s. He’d come up from his meal to kiss slowly along Wen Xu’s length, smiling softly at him. “If I focus too much, I’m definitely going to cum. You look so good down there…”

Lan Huan chuckled softly. “That’s fine. If you think you can handle it, I’ll draw out every climax until you can’t cum anymore.”

Wen Xu’s “fuck” was a lot more breathless this time. His legs subconsciously spread. He hadn’t even realized that Lan Huan had managed to get three fingers into him at some point until now, feeling them press to a sensitive spot he’d never sought out himself. “Only if you promise to let me see just how much stamina you have, too.” He grinned, letting one leg slowly slide down to press lightly to Lan Huan’s crotch. The moan that drew out was so sinful, Wen Xu found himself wanting to hear even more.

“I think that’s an excellent idea,” Lan Huan said with a smile. “But I’ll need you to cum for me at least once before you get what you’re searching for down there. It’ll be easier on you if you do, your body will be much more pliant for me.” His strong hand guided the wandering foot so that his leg was hooked over Lan Huan’s shoulder. “So focus on everything. Let me make you feel as good as you deserve.”

Wen Xu wanted to retort that he didn’t deserve this. He didn’t deserve to be so spoiled. But feeling the fingers pressing to that spot again and that warm mouth once again enveloping him, he really lost all of his words momentarily. They all died on his tongue as the only thing that escaped his mouth was a long, drawn out moan of “Lan Huan.”

He wasn’t sure when the fingers were pulled out or the lips released him. His body felt like jelly, though, and he knew they were gone because strong arms guided him to lay back against his soft pillows and the bed dipped to accommodate another weight. His lips were captured in a soft kiss and he knew, somewhere in the back of his mind, that the new taste on Lan Huan’s lips was his own taste. He realized that the Lan must have swallowed everything and that made him moan against his lips, his arms slowly draping over Lan Huan’s.

He would later realize that Lan Huan made the right decision in drawing a climax from him before this. Even in his slightly dazed state, the length pushing into him still felt too big. As he was slowly entered, his breath threatened not to return to his lungs. It was only the soft hand cupping his face and the gentle praises whispered to him that prevented him from backing out.

“You’re doing so good for me,” Lan Huan murmured. “Such a good boy. I’ll make you feel so good, I promise.”

The praises were almost too much. Even if they made it easier to take the large dick working its way into him, they were too much for him emotionally. He didn’t know a single time he’d been talked to so kindly. He learned early on not to seek out praise, that he had to do his best even without the acknowledgement.

Apparently, the lack of praise only made him need it that much more.

A new warmth began to spread on his face, but it wasn’t a blush this time. Lan Huan’s lips were on his neck, only pausing kisses to whisper more. He reached a shaky hand, touching the new warmth and letting out a soft “ah.” He was crying. Even his voice was cracked as he made that one, single noise of surprise. It brought Lan Huan from his neck, his brow furrowed in concern as he reached to gently wipe at the tears.

“Is it too much?” he asked. “Do you want to stop here?”

Even while offering to stop before reaching his first climax, Lan Huan was unbelievably gentle. Wen Xu could feel his lower lip quivering and his throat aching as his words struggled to escape. “No,” he finally managed, shaking his head. “Don’t stop. Please. I love it. I just- I- I don’t know why I was crying.” A lie. It was the praise. The gentle touches. The pure adoration Lan Huan gave him. “But I don’t hate it. I like it. Don’t stop. Please… keep praising me… I want to-”

Realization dawned on Lan Huan’s face. He leaned in to gently kiss at the tears now. “It’s okay,” he whispered. “I’ll always praise you. My dear A-Xu, you’ve done so well for so long. I’ll make sure you never forget it. Not just for tonight, but for every night after this.”

Despite his climax not being that long ago, Wen Xu could feel every word go to his slowly hardening dick once again. He wrapped his legs around Lan Huan’s waist, turning his head in an attempt to get another kiss. Lan Huan happily obliged, kissing him sweetly. With Wen Xu calmed down, Lan Huan slowly began to move his hips. The movement was still a bit much, but Lan Huan’s preparations earlier had taught him exactly where to aim. Every thrust pressed against the sensitive bundle of nerves, sending sparks through Wen Xu’s body.

It wasn’t long until Wen Xu was pushed to another climax, coating both of them in the proof of his pleasure. A few more thrusts and Wen Xu was being pushed into the edge of overstimulation, but the soft praises of Lan Huan helped him hold on as he clung desperately to his lover.

“That’s it, A-Xu. You’re doing so good,” Lan Huan murmured against his ear. “I know it’s hard, but just bear with it a bit longer. I’m close…”

As Lan Huan’s rhythm faltered, Wen Xu used his legs to encourage him to push in deep. It would be annoying to clean out later, sure, but found himself desperate to be covered in Lan Huan - in everything he could take. He was already thoroughly marked outside and he found himself craving more, craving to be marked inside, even if it would be cleaned out before the night was over.

A soft moan in his ear accompanied the warmth spilling inside of him. Wen Xu let out a moan of his own, his nails digging into Lan Huan’s back as he felt himself being filled. It was a lot to process. He felt like he’d only just gotten used to the feeling of being stuffed so full with Lan Huan’s dick, yet now more was joining it, making him somehow even fuller. He would never admit it out loud, but he was realizing he may have missed quite a bit by refusing to bottom for past male partners.

Lan Huan cupped his cheek and placed a soft kiss to his brow. “You did so good, A-Xu.” 

He carefully flipped them, shifting his length in Wen Xu and drawing out a soft moan from both of them. In this position, though, they could just take a moment to breathe as they came down from their climaxes. Wen Xu realized he felt a little sticky and the sleeve on his arm was still holding strong, which felt even worse and even more constricting. His heart was racing as he slowly removed it and tossed it off the edge of the bed. He willed himself to stay calm, to not ruin the moment as they cuddled.

“May I?”

He hesitated before looking up at Lan Huan. His heart was pounding in his ears. He swallowed the lump threatening to form in his throat, reminding himself that it was okay. He was allowed to let Lan Huan break down his walls. “Yeah.”

Slowly, those calloused fingers traced the long car. Lan Huan didn’t say anything as he traced along it, mapping out each dip and seemingly working to memorize each curve. He was young when it happened, desperate, not at all concerned with making it straight as he tried so hard to just escape everything. His life, his father, the memory of his mother that was desperately suppressed by everyone around him, the cruelty that he watched his brother endure… all of it.

Soft lips pressed to the scar, pulling Wen Xu from the memories that were trying so hard to swallow him up.

“Is it selfish of me to say I’m glad you failed?”

His heart skipped a beat. “Nah. I’m sure that’s, like, standard to say to the guy you’re dating in this situation.” He forced a small laugh.

Lan Huan’s expression looked so sad as he continued to slowly kiss along the scar. “What about that I wish I’d gotten to you sooner? That I’d spoken to you that day I’d seen you in the piano room, despite you hurrying to leave? Ever since I saw it I’ve wondered if trying harder to get close to you back then would have saved you this pain…”

This time Wen Xu knew the warmth on his cheeks were from tears. “A-Huan.” It was quiet, barely a whisper. “It’s okay. I… Zhuliu used to tell me that my mom was watching over me that day, that he thought he’d heard her voice telling him to check on me. He said that she wasn’t ready for me to see her again, that there was more for me to experience.” He knew he must make a pathetic sight. Tears were streaming down his cheeks and his voice was cracking and he still had a dick up his ass. “And he was right. I’ve gotten to experience so much since then. Especially during my time in this town. I think… I think you probably saved me again, honestly.”

Lan Huan sat up, lifting Wen Xu with him as he did. He gently kissed his tears again. “I’m glad. I’d be a pretty poor doctor if I couldn’t even be here for the man I’ve liked since high school.” He smiled at him, cupping his cheek and leaning their foreheads together. “Let’s make lots of memories together. That way, when the day does come for you to meet her, you’ll have plenty to tell her.”

“I think I’m just glad I’ll get to tell her about you.” Wen Xu risked his own smile, his cheeks burning. Apparently that was the right thing to say because he could feel the dick still inside him react. He laughed softly, a genuine laugh that filled the room. “A-Huan, if I knew you’d be so happy just knowing that I want to tell my mom about you, I’d have invited you to visit her grave with me,” he teased. “Maybe you can go with me for her birthday. It’s been a few years since I visited.”

Lan Huan looked so serious as he nodded, despite the blush on his cheeks. “Please. I’d love to meet her.” He gently kissed Wen Xu. “I want to meet everyone who’s important to you. And…maybe even your dad, in a non-professional setting. To tell him that he can’t have you back. You’re mine now.”

Wen Xu’s entire face burned at that. “Wow, who would have thought Lan Huan could be so possessive?”

“There’s a story in my family that a Lan only loves once. I think that, considering how long I’ve been pining for you, it’s probably not false.” His hands slowly wandered Wen Xu’s body, causing him to press close again. “I can’t help but be possessive of the only person I’ll ever want.”

“Fuck…” Wen Xu let out a soft moan, slowly rolling his hips. “If you talk like that, you better be prepared for another round.”

Lan Huan chuckled. “Of course. I promised to make you cum as many times as you can handle, didn’t I? I doubt twice is your limit, dear.”

Wen Xu looked into those warm eyes and realized for a moment that he may have unlocked a slightly dangerous side to Lan Huan. Not that he minded. Just like he really didn’t mind having him be so possessive over him.

It was nice to be wanted.