Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang were walking down the corridor when they saw a glimpse of silhouette left Xiao Zhan's room like a flash of lightning before the door closed behind the figure. Jiang Cheng glanced at Nie Huaisang, who gave him an exasperated groan, he smirked triumphantly, "Pay up."
"Damn it! He gave up the fight too soon!" Nie Huaisang hissed while fishing for money in his bag. It had been quite some time since Jiang Cheng won any matches against Nie Huaisang and victory felt good. It was like the itch to take revenge that you got when you hit rock bottom and you felt like getting back on your feet again.
"Looks like he still the same Wei Wuxian I've known for many years." Jiang Cheng said with a grin as he received his winning prize. Wei Wuxian was always the soft-hearted person when it came to people he cared about, that one had been proven countless times.
"That guy is too forgiving when it comes to Lan Wangji. Love is a stupid thing!" Nie Huaisang said with a huff, feeling bitter about losing his precious allowance over the stupid bet. He then realized something, "But, what was he doing so early in the morning in my little brother's room? Did he sleep there?"
His pitch raised due to his excitement, his face was full of curiosity as if he had just discovered the world after a long time lost in books or learning about new discoveries.
Jiang Cheng clicked his tongue in annoyance, he muttered under his breath, "That rotten idiot and his equally shameless partner. They are too fearless! What does their reputation mean if they fool around like no one else exists? "
"Aww... don't look all sour. They are adorable together." Nie Huaisang stated, wiggling his brows suggestively. "Love is a wonderful thing indeed."
"You just said it was stupid a couple minutes ago." Jiang Cheng replied dryly.
"Hey, I can say whatever I want~" Nie Huaisang chirped. Then his eyes brightened. "I might have a wedding to plan soon~"
Jiang Cheng looked like he wanted to kick him in the head but refrained from doing so because the brat was now his family whether he liked it or not. That being said he didn't hesitate to glare daggers at him.
"Shut up. It would be better if they stop acting like they were already married!" Jiang Cheng snorted derisively; he knew the couple had been together for months but the thought of them having any sort of sexual relations made him queasy to say the least. He had gotten used to it, but it never stopped making his stomach twist into uncomfortable knots. If Lan Wangji were to suddenly kiss his martial brother right now in broad daylight it would probably make him throw up.
"Don't worry! You will get there someday too!" Nie Huaisang patted Jiang Cheng's shoulder encouragingly. "You just need to work on your relationship skills."
Jiang Cheng shot him a dirty look. "It's none of your damn business what I need to improve. Stop spouting nonsense!"
Nie Huaisang just laughed, "See. This is exactly why you are single. Your temper is like a deterrent."
"You are single too, dumbass!" Jiang Cheng retorted without missing a beat.
"By choice." Nie Huaisang answered cheekily, he grinned broadly at his sibling.
The way he smiled, and his cheeks bulged out made Jiang Cheng want to slap the smile off his face immediately and wipe those smug gloating smirk off his face. As a matter of fact, he was seriously considering doing just that. His eyes twitched in irritation. But he promised his father to prove his eligibility as the future leader of his sect and slapping the face of his father's sworn brother's son would be highly unwise and counterproductive. For his honor, he must hold back.
"I guess we should go and check on him." Nie Huaisang suggested gleefully. After all, his curiosity was killing him. Jiang Cheng grunted, reluctant to follow along.
"Good morning Didi!" Nie Huaisang cheerfully greeted as he pushed open the door to Wei Wuxian's room, which was already unlocked after Lan Wangji left where they saw Xiao Zhan in the midst of wearing his robe, the milky skin on his chest and his chiseled torso was decorated with reddening spots and exposed to the world.
"What the fuck are you two doing barging into my room?!" Xiao Zhan yelled in surprise, covering himself as much as possible and pulling his robe tighter on his body. He glared at both of them furiously.
"Oh my, how very scandalous. My little brother is too brazen!" Nie Huaisang grinned while fanning himself.
"And don't bother act all modest now. It's too late for that. I can't unsee those hickeys all over that shameful body of yours." Jiang Cheng sneered and looked pointedly at Xiao Zhan, who blushed red to the roots of his hair.
"Shut the fuck up." Xiao Zhan flicked his hair in annoyance, glaring back at him with a fiery gaze. He clenched his teeth as he spoke, "Why are you two here so early in the morning anyway? And who told you to enter without permission?"
"You mean Lan Wangji got a permission, huh?" Jiang Cheng remarked sarcastically.
"My room my right, Jiang Cheng." Xiao Zhan stated, shooting lasers from his eyes if he could.
"Aiya, we are only worried for you, Didi." Nie Huaisang said, trying to placate Xiao Zhan. He then added, "We came to see how you're faring since you looked like you lost your soul last night. Speaking of that, didn't you have a serious fight with Second Young Master Lan? Why did you forgive him so easily?"
The corner of Xiao Zhan's mouth twitched. He turned around and grumbled, "Whether I forgive him or not, it's none of your business. Now, please leave."
"No way! We are your brothers, and nothing gets past us." Nie Huaisang declared stubbornly as he crossed his arms across his chest and stood up straight. Jiang Cheng just scoffed and followed suit, staring defiantly at Xiao Zhan.
" I am not dealing with this shit today." Xiao Zhan heaved a sigh; he pinched the bridge of his nose. His gaze went dark as he warned, "Get the hell out or I will make you leave."
"You know what, you're being unreasonable right now, Didi. We are merely looking out for you. Right, Jiang Cheng?" Nie Huaisang said in a sing song voice, patting Jiang Cheng on his back. Jiang Cheng shot him a dirty look.
"I am only interested in making sure that you are not going to bring shame upon our sect." Jiang Cheng stated simply.
"Yeah right." Xiao Zhan snorted at his words, "I highly doubt that will happen."
Jiang Cheng had no comeback to that, so he settled for crossing his arms across his chest and narrowing his eyes at Xiao Zhan. It was undeniable that this person had only brought their sect more recognition in than ever before and the current alliance between three sects grew by leaps and bounds, thanks to the head disciple's efforts. Also, the change of the man's status as the Youngest Master of Nie clan indirectly cemented his own position in Yunmeng Jiang clan. He had to admit that he was impressed with Xiao Zhan's abilities but there was no way he would say it out loud.
"Anyway, we came to see how you feel today." Nie Huaisang grinned innocently at him, "Do you feel better now? Or tired maybe? Is your heart still throbbing? Or your back aching? Do you feel dizzy? Sick? Achy? Or perhaps, maybe you even feel uncomfortable-" Nie Huaisang blabbered.
Jiang Cheng almost facepalmed himself because Nie Huaisang was practically asking for his ass to be kicked. He looked at him with deep frown, warning him not to continue.
Nie Huaisang ignored it though. He wasn't done yet. "-And of course, you are feeling a bit sore, right? Come on, share with your Er Ge. How are you feeling now?"
"I feel like... I want to strangle both of you!" Xiao Zhan roared, his glare was intense enough to melt steel and burn holes through the walls. He pointed towards the door and said through gritted teeth, "So, for your sake, I suggest you both to get your asses out! Right now."
"Ah Didi, don't be like this. You are so mean. Please give your poor brother some face." Nie Huaisang pouted while crossing his arms. His innocent demeanor was ruined by the wicked gleam in his eyes.
Jiang Cheng could already predict what Xiao Zhan would do next.
"Ten," Xiao Zhan started his countdown and looked at Nie Huaisang and Jiang Cheng with a calculating gaze.
And Jiang Cheng was right, but he had no time to celebrate that as he heard Nie Huaisang continued to make things worse.
"Aiyo, Didi. No, I shall call you a-Xian, since we are really tight as brothers." Nie Huaisang winked at Xiao Zhan with a smile that didn't look nice at all. The effect was instantaneous.
"Five!" Xiao Zhan shouted in warning, clenching his fists. "Get lost!"
"Oi! How can you skip five seconds?! Don't you know how to count?" Jiang Cheng groaned, stomping his foot in irritation.
Nie Huaisang just continued with his taunting game unrepentantly, "A-Xian, I'm your older brother."
"Four!" Xiao Zhan barked, "And stop calling me that!"
Jiang Cheng hooked Nie Huaisang by the neck and proceeded to drag him out of the room, "Stop courting for death, you imbecile! Let's go!"
"Ow ow ow! Stop! I surrender! Aiya, let go of me! Jiang Cheng! Don't choke me!" Nie Huaisang flailed around like a helpless baby bird.
"Two!"
Jiang Cheng released him with a scoff, pushing Nie Huaisang forward when he saw that Xiao Zhan had started advancing on them menacingly. "Move! Move now! "
"Okay! See you later, Didi!" Nie Huaisang immediately darted towards the door while laughing like a maniac before Xiao Zhan could say 'one'.
Slamming the door shut behind him, Jiang Cheng scowled and gave him a solid kick on the troublemaker's buttocks. He couldn't hit him on the face since it would leave mark so, that was the best spot that would not pose risk of jeopardizing his position.
Nie Huaisang screamed loudly, "Ouch! Jiang Cheng! Are you trying to kill me? That hurt!"
"You deserved it, idiot!" Jiang Cheng huffed in satisfaction.
Nie Huaisang looked up at him with an aggrieved expression, "You are really unfair. You should have given me a warning before you kicked me. At least, Didi counted."
"You were lucky I didn't kick you harder than I did! I technically saved your life, you ungrateful bastard!" Jiang Cheng glowered, gesturing with one of his hands, as if to emphasize his point.
"Aww, you really care about me, don't you"? Nie Huaisang said wistfully, rubbing his bruised butt cheeks. "I'm touched, Jiang Cheng."
Jiang Cheng clenched his jaws and spat, "Shut it or I will kick you harder than earlier!"
Nie Huaisang sighed dramatically, "Why are my brothers all so mean to me, why?"
Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes and cursed his luck. "Why do I always have to deal with annoying people?"
"Because you are the best." Nie Huaisang answered with a wide grin.
"I hate you." Jiang Cheng muttered, turning away from him.
"I love you too," Nie Huaisang responded as he skipped happily, trailing behind the grumbling youth.
******
With the absence of Qingheng-Jun and Lan Qiren who left with Nie Mingjue for Impure Realm, Lan Wangji and Xiao Zhan were left at their own accord and the pair was ecstatic about that. They were both relieved at that fact that they were free from those damned meetings! But that did not mean that they were totally free.
They were currently spending the day working together in Lan Wangji's place, sitting opposite each other. Xiao Zhan was writing something on a paper, his brows furrowed with serious concentration.
Lan Wangji on the other side was trying his best to focus on reading some notes but every time he found his gaze drifting towards Xiao Zhan, he couldn't help but stare, taking in the breathtaking view of the man in front of him. His eyes trailing along the column of Xiao Zhan's nape, where his beautiful hair flowed down his neck like silk and fall freely on his shoulder. His skin was glowing due to the sun kiss, his eyes sparkled like diamonds that glimmered under the sunlight, and the most captivating thing; his soft reddish lips looked slightly swollen probably due to the kisses they shared last night. Just thinking about doing that sent a rush of heat running through his body and his heart began to beat wildly against his chest.
Xiao Zhan stopped writing and raised his head to meet Lan Wangji's eyes, called out, "Lan Zhan?"
Lan Wangji snapped out of his thoughts, "Yes?"
"Do you need something?" Xiao Zhan asked, tilting his head slightly.
Lan Wangji shook his head, pretending like he hadn't been caught ogling at Xiao Zhan. This action earned him a laugh from Xiao Zhan which made butterflies erupt inside his stomach.
"My head is going to have holes in it if you keep staring at me like that," Xiao Zhan said, giving Lan Wangji a teasing smile.
"No, it won't." Lan Wangji replied without missing a beat, causing another burst of laughter from his lover.
"Will you focus? This is serious business here." Xiao Zhan admonished teasingly as he playfully smacked Lan Wangji's arm. He then tapped the space next to him, "Come here, take a look at what I've written. Can you make sense of it?"
He picked up the book in front of him and opened it to display the page full of notes. There were many diagrams and arrows as well as calculations drawn everywhere. The modern numeral system that Xiao Zhan had taught him, were scattered across the pages. He must admit, numbers in that forms made things much simpler and more efficient. It was like their secret codes that only the two of them could decipher.
"You never fail to surprise me, Wei Ying." Lan Wangji mused as he studied the annotations at the bottom of each drawing. "You are combining spatial manipulations and mathematics into one? It's impressive as always."
"Well, don't praise me yet. I have yet to find the solutions for the coordinates mapping," Xiao Zhan said with a pout, "My head is killing me from thinking about these problems."
"You always manage to solve any problem." Lan Wangji murmured quietly, reaching out to smooth Xiao Zhan's hair away from his forehead with gentle fingers, before cupping his cheek with his hands. "Maybe you should take a break for a while."
"Five minutes break it is." Xiao Zhan grinned widely and stretched his arms, "I need a recharge."
Lan Wangji gladly pulled him over to his lap, wrapping his arms around him tightly before leaning down and captured Xiao Zhan's lips with his own. After a few moments, they separated reluctantly, still smiling.
"That was nice." Xiao Zhan said softly, pecking his cheek gently before moving to get off his lap. "Time's up, let's get back on track."
Lan Wangji, however, had a different idea. He pulled him deeper into his chest, holding him tighter. It would seem that Lan Wangji was determined on not letting go of him for even the slightest chance. "We can just stay like this."
"How am I supposed to work like this?" Xiao Zhan protested, though his voice held no real dissatisfaction.
"I won't disturb you. I just want to hold you a little longer." Lan Wangji tightened his hold on Xiao Zhan possessively.
"Fine. Have it your way then." Knowing Lan Wangji's stubborn nature, Xiao Zhan knew he would not win this one. He sighed in resignation and continued his work.
"Hmmm..." The sound of a contented sigh escaped Lan Wangji lips as his arms wrapped themselves more firmly around Xiao Zhan's waist, keeping him secured in place. He nuzzled his nose against Xiao Zhan's nape lovingly, enjoying the warmth radiating from the other.
"You are distracting me." Xiao Zhan protested weakly. Not that he was really complaining though. Deep inside, he too wished that he could spend all of his time with Lan Wangji rather than being productive.
"Mn." Lan Wangji hummed in response; his focus remained on how he felt with Xiao Zhan nestled in his arms. His hands roamed around his torso to caress Xiao Zhan's slender waist, pressing lightly against his curves.
"Lan Zhan... I need to calculate this." Xiao Zhan whined, slapping Lan Wangji's wandering hands lightly.
"I am helping you to relax." Lan Wangji stubbornly refused to budge.
"Stop it. I can't focus." Xiao Zhan complained. It was impossible to concentrate when the man was clinging to him like a koala bear. He turned to look at his lover as he with pleading eyes, "I want to finish this today or my brain won't let me sleep tonight. Please?"
Lan Wangji looked deep into his eyes, studying every inch of his face. A small smile formed on his face as he put out a suggestion, "Will you let me hold you if I help you solve the issue?"
"Okay, let's hear it." Xiao Zhan nodded eagerly, a bright smile appearing on his face.
"You are basing your calculations on coordinates tethering, right?" Lan Wangji asked, earning a nod from Xiao Zhan. "But what if I say you don't have to do calculations at all? You can anchor your destinations with marked objects instead."
"Hmm... You mean... Oh! The Communication Talismans!" Xiao Zhan exclaimed in delight when his mind finally grasped Lan Wangji's suggestion.
"Mn." Lan Wangji agreed, watching with amusement as the light of comprehension began to shine in Xiao Zhan's eyes.
"You're a genius!" Xiao Zhan beamed brightly. He then proceeded with crafting some spell inscriptions, adjusting the flow so the symbols would be aligned perfectly to each other.
Lan Wangji wrapped his arm loosely around the other, pulling him closer into his embrace as his lips brushed against the top of his head softly. He watched with fondness as Xiao Zhan was engrossed in his work, simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that engulfed them.
"Done!" Xiao Zhan announced happily.
Lan Wangji looked at the final inscriptions design and immediately his gaze turned soft and filled with awe. "Perfect."
Xiao Zhan's smile was radiant as he watched his boyfriend's reaction to the runes. He then hugged the Second Jade as he exclaimed happily, "Thank you for your valuable input, my super smart Lan Zhan!"
Lan Wangji smiled fondly, returning Xiao Zhan's enthusiastic embrace before sweeping the other man off his feet.
"Hey! What are you doing? Put me down!" Xiao Zhan cried out in protest. He could feel Lan Wangji's heart racing against his chest as he was slowly carried towards the bed.
Lan Wangji laid him down gently before climbing on top of him, trapping him beneath himself. "You said I can hold you if I helped."
"What's gotten into you today?" Xiao Zhan whined, pouting up at Lan Wangji with playful defiance sparkling in his eyes.
"You," he murmured, running his index finger along Xiao Zhan's jawline.
Xiao Zhan lifted up his eyebrows in feigned disbelief, he smirked, "Are you seriously saying I distracted you instead?"
"Yes." Lan Wangji replied earnestly.
"When did I ever do that?" Xiao Zhan asked, tilting his head to the side. He tried his best not to giggle at how cute the man was behaving. His lover was just so adorable and endearing sometimes!
"Since you walked in." Lan Wangji answered sincerely, "You caught my attention and make me want to do all sorts of things, Wei Ying. I can't resist you anymore."
"Oh, for heaven's sake, who would've thought the prim and proper Second Jade of Gusu Lan would have such a dirty mind." Xiao Zhan exclaimed as he placed both hands on Lan Wangji's cheeks.
"Can't help it." Lan Wangji responded nonchalantly. He then lowered his chin until he was staring deeply into Xiao Zhan's eyes with his golden pools glistening with sincerity. He planted a soft peck against his beloved cheeks before capturing the kissable lips with his own.
Xiao Zhan exhaled slowly as Lan Wangji's soft lips pressed against his own, savoring the taste, the feeling and the heat. He was unable to resist melting into Lan Wangji's touch. His hands found themselves on the back of Lan Wangji's neck while the latter's wrapped around his waist.
They remained in that position until Lan Wangji broke it by kissing down Xiao Zhan's jawline and trailing his lips down to the hollow the dip in his collarbone where his robes met his skin.
"Fine. I'm only giving in because you saved me from plenty of headaches with your cleverness..." Xiao Zhan breathed out shakily, closing his eyes as Lan Wangji kissed lower down the valley. His entire being felt so heavy and warm like he was submerged under an endless sea as his legs unconsciously parted. He didn't care anymore. All he cared about was Lan Wangji's hands tracing his skin with featherlight touches, his hot breath against his ear, his intoxicating kisses and husky whispers and...
The room of silent was eerily quiet on the outside, thanks to the sound blocking talisman.
The inside, however, was far from being as calm and tranquil as the young couple got lost in each other for a while. The only sounds that filled the silence were the muffled whimpers and sighs of pleasure. Both of them had long given up trying to control their breathing or their passion and allowed their actions to take its course, letting it flow naturally through their bodies.
Xiao Zhan felt like he was floating, and his mind was blank. Just enjoying every sensation Lan Wangji's body gave him and letting himself succumb to the feeling of completion as he listened to Lan Wangji whispering his love over and over again. He wasn't sure how many hours had passed but judging by the sweat dripping from Lan Wangji's forehead and the reddish tint on his face, he'd say at least a few.
"Wei Ying, thank you for giving me another chance." Lan Wangji whispered as he gently brushed Xiao Zhan's fringe away from his forehead and his eyes glistening with adoration and affection, "Thank you for forgiving me. "
"I will always forgive you. No matter what." Xiao Zhan smiled softly as his lover buried his face into the crook of his neck. He stroked his beloved's hair as he declared in all honesty, "That's how much I love you, Lan Zhan. So, please don't break my heart ever again."
"Mn..." Lan Wangji responded, his hold tightening slightly.
Xiao Zhan was taken aback for a second as he suddenly felt some tears dampening his shoulder. A soft chuckle escaped his lips as he let his palm glide over Lan Wangji's shoulder blades, rubbing soothing circles into his skin. He said teasingly, "Did anyone ever told you that you are a big baby?"
"Only you." Lan Wangji murmured against his skin; his voice thick with emotion.
"Okay, enough crying." Xiao Zhan smiled sweetly as he lifted up Lan Wangji's head with both hands so that they were face-to-face with each other. He wiped at the wet streaks of tears from Lan Wangji's skin as he spoke, "You have no idea how hard it is to stay mad at you, Lan Zhan. You're really my number one weakness, you know that?"
"Yes." Lan Wangji acknowledged.
"Ah, is that so? " Xiao Zhan teased playfully, his eyes lighting up with mischief. "So, you are exploiting this fact, huh?"
"Mn." Lan Wangji answered bluntly, his expression unapologetic.
Xiao Zhan couldn't help laughing at that, "Wow, you are really shameless, Lan Zhan! Well, guess what?! Remember our little agreement? It's time to honor it."
"..." Lan Wangji ceased every movement in his body when he heard that.
Xiao Zhan smirked evilly, causing Lan Wangji to flinch and shake his head disapprovingly. He caressed the side of his lover's face as he stated, "It is only fair, Lan Zhan. We should keep our end of the bargain, now don't we."
"Wei Ying... Let's be civil..." Lan Wangji backed away slowly.
The grin on Xiao Zhan's face grew wider, "Oho, believe me. Right now, I am as civil as I can be, Lan Zhan."
"..." Lan Wangji moved backwards in an attempt to escape.
"Where do you think you are going?" Xiao Zhan asked, reaching out a hand to hold onto Lan Wangji's arm.
"...To fetch a towel..." Lan Wangji replied sheepishly. He wasn't entirely lying for he had every intention to clean up the mess they both were in. But it was definitely an excuse.
"Hah... Don't make me resort to drastic measures, Lan Zhan." Xiao Zhan warned playfully, eyeing his beloved with devious look. "Don't make me freeze you."
"...You know that doesn't work on me." Lan Wangji muttered petulantly. Truth is, he could dispel most of Xiao Zhan's spell works because Xiao Zhan taught him all of them in the first place. He soon regretted saying those words.
"Is that a challenge? Should we have a battle of spells right now?" Xiao Zhan smirked as he rose up to tower over Lan Wangji.
"..." Lan Wangji's eyes widened as he felt himself begin to panic, "Wei Ying, I don't want to hurt you..."
"Hurt me?" Xiao Zhan scoffed, rolling his eyes at that. "You got guts, Lan Zhan. How brave of you."
Lan Wangji gulped. Xiao Zhan didn't even have to threaten to freeze him for him to stiffen like a statue at this moment. He gave up on fighting at once and declared, "I forfeit. Whatever you wish, I will endure."
"Good." Xiao Zhan said before he executed his merciless retribution.
On that very day, Lan Wangji swore to himself that he would never irk the wrath of this particular person again in his whole life. His lungs could not stand that kind of torture. He could accept any kind of punishment, but tickling was just too much for him.
Lan Xichen who was put in charge as the interim Sect Leader in the absence of his father, could only shake his head at the pair of lovebirds as he accidentally saw them making out the next day when he was intending to go to check up on them.
"Dear brother of mine, please have some decency." He told Lan Wangji as he entered his brother's place, causing the couple to separate with great haste.
"Brother, you need to learn how to knock." Lan Wangji commented dryly, adjusting the collar on Xiao Zhan's robes which were a bit disarrayed.
Xiao Zhan, on the other hand, just buried his face in his palms and groaned in embarrassment.
"I will keep that in mind, Brother." Lan Xichen stated cheerfully as he sat across from the couple. He then turned his glance to Xiao Zhan and laughed lightly, "Anyway, I am glad that you two had made up now. You don't know how much of a mess my little brother was when you were upset, Young Master Wei."
Xiao Zhan ears peaked when he heard that, and he glanced up to Lan Xichen with a raised brow. "Oh?"
Lan Xichen zestfully recounted every expression on his younger sibling's face after the eventful morning, while Xiao Zhan couldn't help bursting into laughter.
Lan Wangji scowled at his older brother and said nothing, instead choosing to focus on smoothing Xiao Zhan's hair. He no longer cared about putting a front anymore, not when he knew that his love was happy. That was all that mattered.
That was how their very short break went. After all, they were two teenagers who were deeply in love with some free time and hormones running rampant, of course they wanted to enjoy them while they still could.
******
When the Sect Leader of Gusu Lan and his grumpy brother returned, the duo once again was overwhelmingly busy. Lan Qiren had softened his stance somewhat towards Xiao Zhan since coming back from Qinghe and tried to avoid confrontation with him whenever possible. His attitude towards the young man was not exactly warm, but he at least seemed to be more tolerable now. The change in his behavior was mostly due to the fact that Sect Leader Nie's fondness towards his adopted son was no joke. In fact, the whole sect seemed to adore the descendant of Changse Sanren. He wouldn't dare to provoke the Nie Sect by treating their youngest Master poorly for his personal feelings.
Xiao Zhan on the other hand did not hold any grudges towards the elder although his opinion still remained unchanged. He simply preferred to keep his dislike under wraps than get dragged into unnecessary petty squabbles with the old man. Besides, Xiao Zhan had more important things to worry about these days than to bother himself with trivial things such as childish arguments between adults.
In spite of the significant reduction in numbers of meeting they both had to attend after the short break, both him and Lan Wangji got busy with crafting devices and so forth which conquered most of their waking times for the rest of the month. Those activities took up nearly all of Xiao Zhan's time and energy. But then again, he was a workaholic, and he was even busier than a bee once upon a time. Thus, this was not a foreign for him and it quickly became a routine for him.
Before they knew it, it had been one whole year since Xiao Zhan first woke up in this cultivation world and it was time for the disciples from other sects to leave Cloud Recesses and return to their respective cultivation clans.
Xiao Zhan stayed behind as promised and Lan Wangji was more than pleased with that fact.
"You're staying??" Both Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang asked Xiao Zhan simultaneously. Their faces contorted in surprise as they thought Xiao Zhan would be leaving with either one of them.
"Yup." Xiao Zhan responded plainly.
"Why??" Both said at the same time again, clearly baffled and suspicious of the decision.
Xiao Zhan didn't know if he should laugh or cry at the synchronization of the two boys and he answered with a shrug, "I still have work to do here."
"But you've done plenty of work already!" Nie Huaisang pointed out. "Are you not bored of it?"
Both seemed rather confused. They couldn't understand why Xiao Zhan would choose such a boring choice for his future life.
Xiao Zhan did not exactly share the fact that he was a formal envoy from both sects to the two immature brats. To be precise, he did not fully trust their loose lips. At least, until the discussion conference is over, he would not tell them.
Xiao Zhan replied calmly, "I am an independent adult, and it is entirely up to me to decide what I want to do or where I want to stay. Besides, I like it here. The pay is good, the air is cool and fresh, and I get to run my research and experiments freely. Also, the library here has plenty of interesting stuffs. "
"But where is the fun in that?" Nie Huaisang questioned, raising an eyebrow.
"Fun is a subjective word," Xiao Zhan argued, "Contrary to your belief, I do enjoy doing those things, alright? You rascals won't understand."
Nie Huaisang gave an exaggerated gasp, "What happened to just be happy and live life to its fullest?" He cried dramatically.
"Who says I am not living life to the fullest?" Xiao Zhan replied while looking at him with an unamused stare. He then turned his gaze to Lan Wangji and added with softer and more subdued tone, "And I am happy."
The last part was muttered beneath his breath, but anyone close enough to hear heard it. It was pretty loud in Lan Wangji's ears though. A soft smile formed on his handsome face as he gazed into his lover's eyes who returned it in equal manner.
That statement shut both of them and they directed their eyes at the Second Jade of Lan who stood loyally by Xiao Zhan's side. Judging by the couple's intense staring, they came upon a conclusion that the main reason for Xiao Zhan's decision to stay was because of the ice prince.
"Oh, for God's sake, can you two please stop making puppy dog eyes at each other?! I would like to keep my breakfast in my stomach! Ahh! My eyes need some thorough washing after this!" Jiang Cheng shrieked, looking away from the lovey dovey sight before him.
Nie Huaisang, however, was enjoying the show quite a lot. He cleared his throat loudly to get the pair's attention. Both men looked at him at that instance with almost identical frown etched on their faces for interrupting their moments. He grinned cheekily, "Ah, sorry to interrupt. I just have something to say as a parting gift."
"What?" Both of them asked simultaneously, eyeing him suspiciously.
With a smile and a twinkle in his eyes, he started walking back and forth with his fan in his hand, he recited poetically, "Till mountains crumble, till rivers run dry, till thunder rumbles in winter, till snow falls in summer, and the earth mingles with the sky. Not till then will my love die."
Lan Wangji's mouth twitched slightly at the last bit and his eyes flashed with an unknown light as he looked at Nie Huaisang while Xiao Zhan smacked his own forehead at his adopted brother's silliness.
Jiang Cheng could feel the hair on the back of his neck stood with all the sappiness. He scorned through gritted teeth, "I swear to the heavens, if another poem comes out of your mouth, I'm throwing myself off the cliff right now."
"Oh, stop being dramatic, Jiang Cheng! You have to admit, it was a great poem." Nie Huaisang giggled. His face was full of excitement as he asked, "Are you jealous? Shall I find you a suitor?"
"Shut your trap!" Jiang Cheng rolled his eyes. "I rather be single than be like this two."
"I don't doubt that you will stay single for a long time with your nasty temper." Nie Huaisang said mockingly.
"Are you cursing me?!" Jiang Cheng glared at him furiously, as though ready to kill him.
"I thought you rather be single." Nie Huaisang shrugged.
"Fuck you." Jiang Cheng glared at him savagely.
"Okay, sure. Let's try it." Nie Huaisang replied in a heart beat, smirking.
Jiang Cheng almost exploded at that, he yelled, "I am never talking to you ever again!!"
Nie Huaisang only laughed maniacally at the red-faced Jiang Cheng.
Xiao Zhan pinched his nose bridge tiredly as he looked back and forth from Jiang Cheng, who was trying to suppress his anger and Nie Huaisang, who was laughing his head off. He then turned to see Lan Wangji's reaction over the ridiculous situation. To his surprise, Lan Wangji's ears turned a little red. He asked, "What are you thinking?"
"The poem. It's good." Lan Wangji murmured, his expression was serious, and he kept his gaze locked onto Xiao Zhan. His comment caused both Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang to stop bickering and blinked at him in shock. He continued, "The last part is true."
"..." Xiao Zhan felt himself blush instantly at his words. He did not expect Lan Wangji to say something like that so casually. Flustered, he swatted his lover's arm lightly and his voice came out a little coquettish, "You... stop flirting!"
"I only spoke the truth." Lan Wangji said with no shame displayed on his face, earning him another slap that could not even kill a mosquito if it got hit.
Witnessing the scene, Jiang Cheng choked on his saliva, spluttering and coughing furiously while Nie Huaisang squealed in delight like a true fanboy.
"Fuck it! I can't take this cheesy crap anymore!" Jiang Cheng screeched, holding his head in his hands. He was really going crazy from seeing the shameless couple's act. He glared at the both of them as he walked towards the door of Xiao Zhan's room with a string of inaudible curses escaped from his lips. He paused his steps after a few as he mumbled without turning back, "Wei Wuxian, at least try to come home as much as possible."
"Why? Are you going to be lonely without me?" Xiao Zhan shouted his reply in playful tone. He could practically hear Jiang Cheng's eyeroll.
Jiang Cheng turned around to make his point and yelled back, "Lonely my ass! If anything, I'll be having a better time without your presence!"
"Ah, is that so?" Xiao Zhan raised his brows, grinning wickedly.
"Yes! You're an asshole, you know!" Jiang Cheng snarled as he stomped his feet towards the exit.
"Yeah yeah, just say you'll miss me." Xiao Zhan started to chuckle at his childish reactions.
"In your dream!" And with that final retort, he stormed out and closed the door with a loud thud behind him.
Xiao Zhan shook his head and doubled up with laughter at his martial brother's theatric tantrum.
"And what about me, a-Xian? Are you not going to miss me?" Nie Huaisang asked innocently while fanning himself after Xiao Zhan managed to stop laughing. The boy had been grinning ear to ear all the while listening to Xiao Zhan's teasing banter and honestly it was entertaining for him.
"First of all, stop calling me A-Xian. Secondly, no." Xiao Zhan replied curtly.
"But a-Xian, what else should I call you when we are very close?" Nie Huaisang asked with a playful grin, knowing full well that he'd annoy the hell out of Xiao Zhan whenever he used that nickname on him. He then crossed his arms and huffed, "Also, how mean of you? You should at least say you'll miss your elder brother."
"I will kick your butt if you don't stop calling me that." Xiao Zhan threatened, although he made no effort to actually get around it.
"Tsk, you're mean. Don't you know what filial piety means?" Nie Huaisang gasped melodramatically.
"Er Ge, I will respectfully kick your butt. There. Filial enough to you?" Xiao Zhan asked sarcastically with a smirk playing on his lips.
"Oh, yes! Very good! Very appropriate! I shall make sure to inform the Elders immediately so they can prepare some punishments." Nie Huaisang replied, giving Xiao Zhan two thumbs up.
"I don't think the elders would dare punish me for teaching you a lesson." Xiao Zhan said, smirking triumphantly.
"How dare you insinuate such things! I will report to Father about your misconduct today!" Nie Huaisang exclaimed, exaggerating his hands gestures.
"Oh please, do you think Father would believe that kind of claim against his youngest son?" Xiao Zhan asked with a devilish grin spread across his handsome face, "Besides, if I did end up kicking your ass, would Father punish me? Or you?"
"Oh, just you wait and see. I will make Father give you a beating when we see each other next time." Nie Huaisang replied hotly.
Xiao Zhan just rolled his eyes at Nie Huaisang's antics and said challengingly, "Go ahead."
"I will do just that!" Nie Huaisang declared as he spun on his heels before strutting towards the exit. He then waved over his shoulder and said in a sing-song voice, "See you later, Didi!"
After Nie Huaisang's dramatic exit, Xiao Zhan shook his head in amusement before turning his head to look at Lan Wangji. The Second Jade of Lan was watching him intensely with his usual stoic face. He asked, tilting his head sideways, "Why are you looking at me like that?"
Lan Wangji continued to stare at him for a moment longer and uttered, "I'm just looking at what's mine."
"Ah... What's this? Don't tell me you're jealous?" Xiao Zhan teased playfully. He leaned closer to him and whispered conspiratorially, "But seriously though, your possessiveness is cute."
The corners of Lan Wangji's mouth curled ever so slightly into the smallest hint of a smile as Xiao Zhan's answer. His hands reached out and stroked the side of Xiao Zhan's face gently before pulling him into a gentle kiss. He cupped the side of Xiao Zhan's cheek tenderly as he posed his question innocently, "Wei Ying, will you miss me if I'm not around?"
Xiao Zhan couldn't help the laugh that escaped him, "You already know the answer."
"...Know what?" Lan Wangji frowned slightly, he wanted to hear his lover to say those words.
Xiao Zhan knew Lan Wangji very well. He smiled coyly before leaning in and whispering in his ears, "Er Gege, what do you want to hear? That I will miss you? Or that I will miss your kisses? Your embraces? And your touches? And..."
"That's enough." Lan Wangji interrupted, blushing and covering Xiao Zhan's mouth with his hand.
Xiao Zhan giggled quietly but nodded, nonetheless. He took his hand away from his mouth and patted his hand. He said softly, "Of course, I will miss you. You know just how much I love you, Lan Zhan."
Lan Wangji gave him a small smile, pulling the other into his arms before lowering his head down to plant soft kisses on top of the raven-colored locks. He murmured, "I love you too."
"Do you realize that it has been one full year since we first met?" Xiao Zhan said softly into Lan Wangji's hair.
"Mn." Lan Wangji replied quietly and tightened his grip around Xiao Zhan. "I'm glad I met you."
Xiao Zhan hummed as he hugged Lan Wangji tighter, "Me too."