Work Text:
Nie Mingjue did not like Jiang Cheng.
Everything about him oozed trouble. From their first meeting – where Jiang Cheng had found their lost dog with a broken foot, treated her free of charge at his clinic, and returned her home – to right now – where Jiang Cheng was busying himself in the kitchen, singlehandedly cooking a feast for Mingjue and Huaisang – Jiang Cheng had been nothing but a perfect, kind-hearted gentleman.
Huaisang had fallen for and brought home many men before, but Mingjue knew his patterns. Those Huaisang met at the bar barely lasted two weeks, anyone from an art show or gallery would make it a couple months, and blind dates from friends, though more variable, had never turned serious. If there was one thing Mingjue could trust in, it was Huaisang’s absolutely shitty taste in men.
Which made the handsome, well-muscled man with a secure job, his own home, and no debt, who was somehow also an excellent cook, absolutely dangerous territory for Mingjue. No matter how good Jiang Cheng looked on paper, no one was good enough for his little brother.
This was the first relationship that Huaisang had ever actually seemed invested in, meaning that Jiang Cheng was the first man that could ever properly and thoroughly break Huaisang’s heart. Though Mingjue preferred to hide all opinions on Huaisang’s romantic life, he knew he actually cared much more than he should.
Mingjue’s (perhaps misplaced) overprotective instincts were what led to this current moment; him glaring daggers at Jiang Cheng from the living room couch, while Huaisang pouted at him.
“Da-ge,” he started, “A-Cheng is too busy cooking right now to even notice you glowering.”
Mingjue didn’t move. “He knows I’m watching.”
“Ugh, Da-ge!” Huaisang hits his shoulder. “It’s only been a month! I sweet talked him into cooking dinner for us, because I wanted my two most favorite people in the world to meet each other.” The slight whine in his voice was what finally drew Mingjue’s attention to him. Huaisang was looking up at him with the biggest puppy eyes in the world and Mingjue caved.
“You haven’t brought anyone home in a while, a-Sang,” he muttered. “I’m just being cautious.”
Huaisang sighed, delicately placed his head in his hands, and looked over at Jiang Cheng with heart eyes. “You will never have to worry about a-Cheng. He’s perfect.’
Looking at Huaisang’s obviously smitten face just made Mingjue dislike Jiang Cheng even more.
---
Unfortunately for Mingjue, Jiang Cheng had made the absolute best first impression on Huaisang. It was something that could have been pulled straight out of a rom-com. At least, Mingjue assumed it could be. He, of course, was not one to cry over cheesy romance movies (he absolutely is).
Huaisang had been a blubbering mess that night when he called Mingjue. Petunia, the con artist she was, had slipped away from Huaisang and ran after a squirrel while on a walk. Huaisang had scoured the neighborhood, but Tuna was nowhere to be found and it had started to rain heavily.
Mingjue closed the shop early to help Huaisang search, running up and down in the cold streets to find the small Pomeranian. Yet, they hadn’t been searching for long when Huaisang received a call and his entire face lit up.
Not bothering to explain things to Mingjue, his little brother threw them into the car and started to drive. Only when they pulled into the Lotus Pets Veterinary Clinic parking lot, darkened sky still pouring buckets and only a few lights in the building on, did the pieces start to click for Mingjue.
So, Jiang Cheng made his entrance, damp clothes still hanging tightly to his body with a small Pomeranian swaddled in his arms. Mingjue couldn’t even fault Huaisang for swooning at the sight.
Everything was made worse as Doctor Jiang took them back to an exam room and calmly explained the situation. Huaisang’s eyes grew bigger, and his laugh become lighter when each new piece of information was revealed.
“I found her on my way home after locking up today.”
“So, you immediately turned around and brought my sweet Petunia to safety?”
“She’s not in bad shape, but she does have a fractured leg. We’re going to have to wrap it and keep her off it for a couple weeks.”
“Oh my, you’re such a great veterinarian, Doctor Jiang. What would we do without you?”
“She was shivering and muddy when I brought her in, so I gave her a quick bath after checking her. I hope that’s okay with you.”
“Truly above and beyond! You didn’t even dry yourself off, Doctor Jiang.”
“No, don’t worry about the fees. I found her and chose to help. I can’t force you to pay after bringing her to the clinic myself!”
“Oh, Doctor Jiang, you are too good to this poor soul.”
“Call me Wanyin.”
At this point, Mingjue was too relieved and exhausted from both work and the search to notice Huaisang and Jiang Cheng gravitating closer. It wasn’t until the next weekend that he realized the dangers of Doctor Jiang. After hearing a strange knocking on the door, he opened it to find Jiang Cheng kissing his baby brother goodbye. While he had ended that encounter quickly, Huaisang had already fallen hard for the other man.
---
Mingjue was up early waiting for his coffee to finish brewing before running to work. The butcher shop itself was steady work, but ever since creating and marketing his jerky line, he’d been consistently getting busier. He’d need to put an ad out for a second employee pretty soon. Though his current part-time worker, Xue Yang, was great a knife, he didn’t handle costumer interactions well.
As he contemplated the delegation of duties for a new hire, he heard shuffling in the hallway. Strange. Huaisang never woke up before 9, let alone at 5 AM.
He had just finished pouring the coffee into his travel mug when Jiang Cheng walked into the light of the living room. Mingjue froze and stared at Jiang Cheng over the kitchen island.
“What are you doing here so early in the morning, Jiang Cheng?” he growled.
Jiang Cheng jumped a foot in the air, apparently having not noticed Mingjue’s presence. His eyes were comically wide. “Oh, good-… good morning, Mingjue.”
Mingjue glared, crossing his arms.
Jiang Cheng gulped and hurriedly crossed the room to get to the door. He threw his coat and shoes on, not even tying them as he grabbed his keys and rushed out.
“Have to get to work! I’ll see you later!” Then he was gone.
Mingjue growled at his departure, but then decided on a better course of action. He stomped up the stairs to Huaisang’s room and threw the door open.
His little brother jerked awake at the loud noise and looked up at Mingjue with a furrowed brow. “Da-ge?”
“Why was Jiang Cheng running out of our house at 5 AM?” he questioned.
Huaisang let out a huff and snuggled deeper into the blankets. “Because he has to open the clinic in an hour. It’s not that complicated Da-ge.”
“I didn’t even know he came over last night!” Mingjue argued. “Why are you two sneaking around?”
Huaisang didn’t even bother looking at Mingjue. “There was an emergency visit or something last night, and he was tired and exhausted, so I told him to come over here.” He paused deliberately, then snarked, “It’s not my fault I live with a brother who doesn’t know how to mind his own business.”
Mingjue stewed, staring down at his brother. “Then why did he run out of here?”
“Easy. Because you scare him.”
Mingjue stood a little taller at that and gave himself a small smile. Good. Only to look back down and see Huaisang’s own sharp glare aimed right at him.
“That is not something to be proud of, Da-ge,” he said. “A-Cheng won’t be leaving my life anytime soon. You need to start treating him better.”
Now it was time for Mingjue to huff. “I’ll do what I want as your older brother.” Then he walked out of the room and made his own way to work.
---
The first thing Mingjue heard as he opened the door was laughter. He still wasn’t used to hearing Jiang Cheng’s voice in the house. Huaisang’s past boyfriends were never allowed to get too comfortable in their home - if they were even able to make it through the front door. Jiang Cheng was quickly becoming a constant fixture in their shared apartment, and it had only been six weeks.
Mingjue greeted Tuna and Baxia before making his way to the living room. He was greeted with the sight of Huaisang pouting heavily as Jiang Cheng shoveled a pile of Monopoly money towards himself.
“You’re bankrupt, babe,” Jiang Cheng smirked.
Huaisang’s pout deepened but was quickly covered by his fan as he flipped it open. “Unfair. You cheated somehow.”
Mingjue huffed, drawing their attention to him across the room. “A-Sang, you lost and now you’re making excuses?”
Huaisang gasps, affronted. “Well, if your game of monopoly only lasted an hour, you’d assume cheating was involved, too!”
Jiang Cheng grabbed Huaisang’s free hand with a smile, “I’m just that good.”
Mingjue allowed himself a small frown. Huaisang never lost at board games, and he seemed too genuinely moody to have lost on purpose. Which meant Jiang Cheng was absolutely a board game cheater. If he cheated on board games, how long would it be before he transitioned to other kinds of cheating?
Mingjue’s frown turned into a deep glare, causing Jiang Cheng to startle when he made eye contact again. Huaisang noticed and looked over to his brother.
“Da-ge, what’s wrong? Was work fine?”
“Just perfect,” he mutters, clenched fist crushing the handles of his messenger bag.
Huaisang gives him a quick side-eye, then turns his full attention back to Jiang Cheng. “Oh, a-Cheng, I still love you.” He hits the other man on the arm with his fan, “Now we know who’ll be in charge of finances after we get married!”
Jiang Cheng splutters bright red, but doesn’t refute the statement, instead leaning closer to his boyfriend.
Mingjue huffs and forces himself to leave the room.
---
Despite everything, a nice perk of Huaisang dating Jiang Cheng was the discounted vet care. After Jiang Cheng’s impromptu emergency care of Petunia, Huaisang’s Pomeranian, Lotus Pets had become their primary clinic. Mingjue had to admit that Jiang Cheng was a miracle worker with animals.
Baxia, while an absolute perfect angel for the Nies, was also the bane of many vets’ existence. Their last vet had begrudgingly taken on Baxia and had made many pointed remarks to Mingjue that she a handful.
Yet, she turned into soft butter in Jiang Cheng hands. It crushed him to have to acknowledge another positive aspect of his younger brother’s boyfriend, but he had a way with animals. Jiang Cheng was always so effortlessly relaxed around his patients, endearing himself to animals and owners alike.
The man in question was currently cooing over Baxia as Mingjue stood awkwardly in the exam room. He made sure to be polite and professional when talking to Jiang Cheng at his clinic. He did not want to have to find another new vet.
He cleared his throat, causing Jiang Cheng to look up from Baxia. “How’s she doing?”
“Perfect,” he smiled. “The bloodwork looks good, physical health is in top shape, and we’ve got her up to date on all her vaccines. I’d suggest coming in for a dental soon, but I’m pretty sure I saw your name down in the system for one already.”
“Yea,” Mingjue nodded. “Your receptionist told me I should schedule one when she called with the appointment reminder.”
Jiang Cheng snorts. “Qin Su knows me too well.” He stands up, giving Baxia one last kiss. “Then I think you’re all good to go here. Though, make sure to tell Huaisang that Petunia also needs a dental. Me seeing her every time I come over doesn’t equate to a vet visit.”
Mingjue allowed himself to laugh at the other man’s joke. They both knew Huaisang would do anything for that fluffball of a Pomeranian and was well enough up to date on her medical needs.
Jiang Cheng walked him to the reception area of the clinic. He plucked a treat out of a jar and gave it the Great Dane with another scratch at her ears. Mingjue walked up to the front desk, pulling his wallet out of his pocket, but Jiang Cheng stopped him with a hand to the chest.
“Oh, Mingjue, don’t worry about costs. Baxia is a special costumer.” He smiles, the turns over his shoulder to the receptionist. “A-Su, friends and family discount for this one again, okay?”
The small girl rolls her eyes, only sparing him a glance as she continued typing away on the computer. “Of course, Doc.”
Mingjue knew from previous visits that the ‘friends and family discount’ meant ‘only charge for absolutely necessary costs’, which had resulted in Mingjue (and Huaisang) paying close to nothing for the past few months of vet bills. They’d really only been charged for the cost of medications after Petunia’s broken bone incident. Mingjue bit back a grimace and opened his mouth to point out the flaws in Jiang Cheng’s current business model, but before he could speak, Jiang Cheng had already moved on.
“See you later, Mingjue!” he says, bright smile on his face as he walks over to the next patient in the waiting room. The large calico cat and owner both look at Jiang Cheng with pure adoration as he guides them back to the exam rooms.
Thank god that kid was oblivious to his admirers, Mingjue thought, or else Huaisang would be in trouble. He leans against the counter and shifts his gaze to Qin Su.
“Any chance I’ll be able to pay for any of this?”
She gives him a smirk, “Not at all, big guy.”
“That’s what I thought,” he sighs. “Thanks for your hard work.”
“No problem. Don’t forget we’ll be seeing you in two weeks for Baxia’s dental.”
---
Mingjue and Jiang Cheng were currently tucked away in the back office of his butcher shop. Huaisang had asked Jiang Cheng to pick something up from the shop on his way over to their house from work. Jiang Cheng had arrived right as Mingjue was suffering through the new hire applications. After another incident of Xue Yang scaring another costumer off last week, Mingjue finally listed a new position for the shop.
If they got someone new to man the counter, Xue Yang and him could handle the meat. However, he hadn’t hired an employee in years, as Xue Yang had been a recommendation from Meng Yao. Mingjue had no idea what he was looking for.
He barely noticed Jiang Cheng walking into the office and peering over his shoulder. It was only when he spoke that Mingjue shifted his attention.
“Still accepting paper applications?” Jiang Cheng asked.
Mingjue frowned down at the stack in his hands and then at Jiang Cheng. “I had them printed off so I could read them easier.”
Jiang Cheng hummed in understanding, then plucked the stack from his hands. Mingjue was about to chew him out, but Jiang Cheng talked first.
“You’re looking for someone full-time to help with the customers?”
Mingjue nodded, and Jiang Cheng began flipping through the application. Mingjue was too tired to say anything as Jiang Cheng sorted through the applications. After a few moments, Jiang Cheng handed a small stack of applications back to him.
“These are the ones you should call in for an interview.”
Mingjue stared at him, and he just shrugged. “I’ve had to do enough of my own hiring at the clinic. Trust me, I know enough about resumes and job experiences at this point.” He pointed at the small stack, “Those applicants seem to have the most potential. Just call them in and figure out if they’d be a good fit here.”
Mingjue nodded again. “Okay. I’ll call them. What are you doing here?”
“Oh, Huaisang wanted me to pick up some beef for dinner tonight.” He held up the bag in his hands nervously, “Xue Yang helped me up front, but I wanted to come say hi to you, too.”
Mingjue grunted. “Are you cooking dinner for him again?” At Jiang Cheng nod, Mingjue continued. “I’ve got to wrap this up and finish cutting a new shipment. Tell a-Sang I’ll be home late.”
Jiang Cheng agreed quickly, and the two drifted to awkward silence. As Mingjue was shuffling the applications away (and attempting to find a way to thank Jiang Cheng without actually having to thank him), another head poked into the office.
“Da-ge,” the small, adorable voice of Meng Yao appeared.
Mingjue immediately dropped the papers he was holding and smiled. “A-Yao! What are you doing here?”
Meng Yao smiled with dimples on full display and leaned against the door, “The club’s having a celebration for doubling revenue this last month. I’ve volunteered to do most of the cooking and wanted your help.” Then he noticed Jiang Cheng and moved forward with his hand extended.
“Oh, I’m Meng Yao. Apologies for not noticing you sooner.”
Jiang Cheng shook his hand. “Jiang Cheng. I’m Huaisang’s boyfriend.“
Meng Yao immediately flicked his eyes to Mingjue and smirked, knowing full well the older man’s perceived issues with Jiang Cheng. His focus shifted right back to Jiang Cheng, though, when the other man spoke.
“Have we met before, Meng Yao? You seem familiar to me?”
Meng Yao shrugged, looking over Jiang Cheng. “I don’t think so. I always remember a face.”
Jiang Cheng continued to stare at him. “I swear you look way too familiar. Maybe we met through work? Do you bring any animals into Lotus Pets vet clinic?” He paused, not really waiting for an answer, “Oh, or maybe your work. What is it you do?”
Before Meng Yao could answer, Mingjue growled. “A-Yao owns a strip club downtown.” He shifts to be the focus of Jiang Cheng’s attention and crosses his arms. “Do you often spend time in strip clubs?”
Jiang Cheng immediately turned red and threw his hands up. “No, of course not!” Then he flustered again and turned to Meng Yao. “Not that there is anything wrong with strip clubs. It just isn’t a thing I do.” His eyes flicked between the two of them – Mingjue glaring and Meng Yao chuckling.
“Especially since I am in a committed relation, I don’t need-,” Mingjue growled, and Jiang Cheng cut himself off immediately. “Not that I have needs. No needs here. None at all. I just don’t even want to look at a man, or women, or person, who isn’t Huaisang.”
When Jiang Cheng’s rambling was met with silence, he flushed an even deeper red. He grabbed his bag and began walking backwards out the door.
“Well, it was nice to finally see your shop, Mingjue. I’ll let Huaisang know you’ll be home late!” As he stepped out the door, he quickly turned around and threw over his shoulder, “Goodbye!”
A moment after he left, Meng Yao turned to Mingjue. “Really, Da-ge?”
Mingjue had the decency to look flustered. “I don’t like him.”
Meng Yao rolled his eyes and placed a hand on Mingjue’s bicep, looking up at him with wide eyes. Mingjue suddenly felt very hot and had to force himself to focus on Meng Yao’s next words.
“Who knew you were so opposed to strip clubs?” he said slowly, a small pout forming.
Now it was Mingjue’s turn to blush as he fought back the fluttering feeling in his chest at Meng Yao’s pout. “You know I respect your work and the club, but we both know the kind of scumbags it can attract.”
Mingjue had known Meng Yao a long time. They’d met when Meng Yao was still a dancer and he applied to the shop for a part-time day job. As they’d gotten closer over the years, Meng Yao had shared the up and downs of his life as a sex worker, including all the nasty men and women he had to deal with. When Meng Yao finally saved enough money to buy the old club and refurbish it, he made sure to give only the best to his dancers. Though most of his time was spent managing the place, Meng Yao still got on stage and danced when he felt like it, which Mingjue couldn’t help daydreaming about every now and then.
“I just don’t want Huaisang being around someone who doesn’t deserve him,” he huffed. “He needs a boyfriend that worships the ground he walks on.”
Meng Yao leaned his head against Mingjue’s arm, “Don’t worry so much, Da-ge. Huaisang’s not a fool. He knows what he’s getting himself into.”
Mingjue slumped, “I don’t trust that kid. He’s suspicious.”
“You’re just an older brother,” he laughs. “Give him a chance and trust Huaisang’s judgement a little bit.”
Mingjue huffed, then looked down at Meng Yao wrapped around his arm. All distasteful feelings left as he made eye contact with his best friend. I am absolutely in love with this man.
Mingjue smiled, “You came here for a reason. What can I help with?”
Meng Yao gave him the biggest dimples in return.
---
Mingjue exited the car first, leaving Jiang Cheng and his brother in the back as Jiang Cheng attempted to fix Nie Huaisang’s hair. He shook his head fondly as he heard his brother pouting. As much as he wanted to dislike Jiang Cheng, that boy knew how to take care of his little brother.
Leaving them to themselves, Mingjue walked through the parking garage to the restaurant and was guided by the hostess to a private hall located on its own floor.
Of course, Lan Xichen was waiting by the door of their private room.
Xichen smiled warmly, pulling Mingjue in for an embrace. “It’s been far too long, Da-ge.”
Mingjue patted him on the back soundly. “Life really gets away from us, doesn’t it?”
Xichen pulls away, the smile still sitting on his lips. “Let’s be sure to actually put some time aside for ourselves this coming year and catch-up.” He sighs dramatically, “At this rate, we’ll die lonely, overworked bachelors.” Then continues, in pure Xichen fashion, before Mingjue can even speak.
“However, a little birdy told me that you’ve been supplying a lot of jerky to a certain strip club.” Xichen flashes Mingjue a bright smile. “Though I wouldn’t find jerky to be a particularly enticing snack at any club – as a patron or dancer – , I suppose Meng Yao knows what’s best for his establishment.”
Huaisang! Mingjue flushes red as he’s reminded of his years long crush on their other friend, as well as his complete inability to tell if said friend liked him in return. Shuffling awkwardly, Mingjue clears his throat and changes the topic. “I didn’t realize that the Lan family would need an entire private floor for this dinner.”
“Ah, well,” Xichen sighs again, but this time it’s full of exhaustion. “The annual family get-together went off the rails this year. I don’t know if you’ve heard, but Wangji proposed to his boyfriend of five months a few weeks back.” Xichen shoulders slump. “Uncle almost had a heart attack and has been trying to talk Wangji out of it.”
Mingjue snorts at that. Lan Wangji was the most stubborn boy he’d ever met. If he’d decided he wanted to marry someone, no one’s opinion, let alone his uncle’s was changing that. Xichen seemed to know precisely what Mingjue was thinking, since he just nodded.
“Yes, exactly. So far, those attempts have been disastrous.” He shakes his head and continues. “Anyway, rushed engagements aside. Wangji’s fiancé is from a fairly powerful family himself. Which,” and he says this in a hushed tone, as if to hide the fact he’s gossiping from any other Lan that might walk by, “is probably the only reason Uncle begrudgingly letting this go forward.”
Mingjue laughed. “So the Lan’s had to invite the fiancé’s family, as well? Doesn’t explain why we need an entire floor at the most over-priced restaurant in the city.”
“Well, Wei Wuxian – the fiancé – is the adopted son of the Jiangs from Yunmeng Group and their only daughter is recently married to Jin Zixuan from Lanling Jin.” Xichen looks at him pointedly at this part, and Mingjue gives him a look of pity. “So, of course, us Lans had to invite the fiancé’s family, including Jin Zixuan, and as soon as Jin Guangshan caught wind of the event, he not-to-subtly invited himself and his family along.”
Mingjue throws his arm around Xichen shoulder. “Somehow our cozy family dinner turned into a networking event, huh?”
“Exactly!” Xichen exclaims. “Though, I shouldn’t be too upset about things. Once Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji get married this will be our new normal.” The smile returned and he looked up over at Nie Mingjue, “So, welcome to the Lan, Nie, Jiang, and Jin holiday extravaganza!”
“What?”
Mingjue and Xichen both started, surprised at the new presence in the hallway. Jiang Cheng and Nie Huaisang had silently arrived near the end of their conversation.
Huaisang’s hair looked perfectly done up again. Jiang Cheng must have fixed the bobby-pin situation, or knowing his little brother, Jiang Cheng held the mirrors appropriately as Huaisang fixed it himself. However, at the moment, Jiang Cheng looked strikingly pale and stiff, while Huaisang was gripping his arm tightly and had plastered a fake smile on his face.
“I’m sorry,” Jiang Cheng said, “Who did you say was here?”
“Oh, Wanyin,” Xichen started, suddenly flustered. “I didn’t realize you were a-Sang’s new boyfriend.”
Mingjue swiveled his head between the two of them, both looking like they were dying inside. “What’s going on here?” he asked, absolutely confused.
Huaisang turned his sickly-sweet smile on Xichen, completely ignoring his brother. “Er-ge, you were just explaining how the entire Jiang and Jin families are present.” His eyes turned sharp. “I think that’s information we would have appreciated before arriving.”
Xichen looked incredibly uncomfortable. “I didn’t mean to surprise you with this. Everything was very last minute, and I honestly had no idea it would be…” he paused for a beat, “such relevant information”.
Thick silence filled the room as Huaisang glared at Xichen, and Jiang Cheng stood frozen. Mingjue had no idea what was happening. A little extra company wasn’t ideal, but it’s not like it was the end of the world to eat dinner with other people. Right??
The silence was broken by Jiang Cheng, who had suddenly come to life. “Can we go, a-Sang?” he asked quietly.
Huaisang immediately began fluttering around again, attention stolen from Xichen. “Of course, a-Cheng. Of course.”
Mingjue interrupted confused, “You’re both leaving?” He looked at Xichen for help, but Xichen was staring awkwardly at the floor. “What’s happening?”
Huaisang sighed, “We’ll explain when you come home later, Da-ge, but for now, we need to le-”
Unfortunately for everyone involved, it was at this moment that the door to the dining hall burst open and a mass of bright red appeared.
“Xichen-ge!” the man exclaimed, immediately taking up as much space and air as he possibly could. “Lan Zhan’s wondering where you’ve gone. Jin Guangshan has already gotten knee deep in booze and we need reinforcements before this thing-“ but he suddenly stops talking, when he spots Jiang Cheng.
“A-Cheng?” he breathes. The man’s eyes flit around the hallway, taking in Jiang Cheng and the Nies, before exploding with energy again. “Oh my god, a-Cheng! I had no idea you were back in the area. How long has it been? What have you been up to? Are you here to congratulate me?”
Mingjue stares at him in shock. Way to much is happening right now for him to process, and it doesn’t seem like the new man has any sort of filter. Thankfully, Xichen steps up.
“Wei Wuxian,” he says, drawing the man’s attention to him. “You have yet to be introduced to Nie Mingjue and Nie Huaisang, both are very old friends of Wangji and myself.” Xichen pauses for a moment, then continues, “And you already know Wanyin, Huaisang’s boyfriend.”
Wei Wuxian whirls back to face Jiang Cheng and Huaisang. “A-Cheng! You’re dating Nie Huaisang! When did you get a boyfriend, huh? You’re so prickly and grumpy, I was always worried about you dying alone!” He ends the whirlwind of words with a laugh and a bright smile.
However, Jiang Cheng’s face darkly contrasts Wei Wuxian’s. He runs a hand through his hair stiffly and says, “It’s been a while, Wei Ying. Congratulations on the engagement.”
“Ah!” Wei Wuxian exclaims. “It’s been so long that you won’t call me ge?” He mimics being shot in the heart and dramatically falling.
Everything finally falls together for Mingjue. Jiang Cheng never lied about his family, but he was always very hesitant to give names or details. Mingjue understands his reasons perfectly right now. Why had it taken him so long to realize that sneaky, secretive Jiang Cheng who had surprisingly detailed knowledge of business was actually a part of the Yunmeng Jiang family?
Xichen’s increasingly worried expression said that the situation was quickly getting out of control. Though Mingjue still never admit it to Huaisang, Jiang Cheng had grown on him, and he’d come to understand the various ‘frowns-of-Jiang-Cheng’. The one he was currently wearing screamed ‘I-need-to-call-my-therapist-right-now’.
Mingjue makes eye contact with Huaisang and nods his head to the exit. Huaisang’s attention flits quickly between his boyfriend, Mingjue, and the dramatically revealed brother who Jiang Cheng had fairly serious issues with. He looks back to Mingjue with sharp eyes and nods in return.
Huaisang flicks his fan out and, with one arm tightly wrapped around Jiang Cheng’s waist, he extends the other out to Wei Wuxian. “Wuxian, it’s so good to meet you!” He gives a soft fake smile, while the other comes forward to shake. “My a-Cheng has told me so much about his family. It’s quite the surprise to run into you at the Lan holiday dinner, as we heard nothing about your engagement.”
Mingjue takes note of Wei Wuxian’s small flinch as Huaisang spoke.
“Unfortunately, as we were just explaining to Da-ge and Er-ge, something didn’t sit right with a-Cheng on the way here. I’m afraid we need to leave already and let him rest.”
Jiang Cheng nods along dumbly. His pale complexion already helping to sell the sick act.
Wei Wuxian seems to deflate at Huaisang’s words, but nods along. “Okay,” he says at half-speed compared to before. “Don’t want to get anybody else sick tonight.” He laughs half-heartedly and moves to take a step forward.
Huaisang stops him immediately with his own loud laugh and smile. “Of course, Wei Wuxian. Thank you for understanding.” He’s fiercely gripping Jiang Cheng’s waist, though Mingjue thinks he’s the only one in the hallway who understands how protective of a position that is for Huaisang. “We’ll make sure to reach out! Don’t worry about us. Congratulations again on the engagement!”
With a quick wave and bright flurry of his green dress, Huaisang gathers Jiang Cheng up and walks purposefully down the hallway and away from the event.
Wei Wuxian stares after them, and Xichen glances helplessly at Mingjue, which he takes as his cue to step up and protect Jiang Cheng, too.
“Well, Wei Wuxian,” the man’s head whips around to Mingjue, “You said Wangji needed Xichen’s help?” He extends his arm back to the doors, inviting both Xichen and Wuxian to rejoin the party, though he has yet to step foot inside.
“Oh, yes,” he says slowly, then perks right back up again. He grabs Xichen’s arm and pulls him into the run. He yells back over his shoulder, “I’m just gonna steal him away for a bit!”
Mingjue grabs the door before it slams shut again, takes a moment to breathe, then steels himself and walks in.
---
“Da-ge, you must know that if I had any idea Wanyin was dating a-Sang, I absolutely would have kept you updated!”
The two were seated at the end of table, far enough away from the other celebrators to have a serious conversation. Xichen had explained what he knew of the Jiang family drama. However, being a Lan and constantly choosing to step away from rumors surrounding the Jiang family (though Mingjue knew exactly how much of a gossip Lan Xichen really was), Xichen didn’t know much beyond the basics.
Wei Wuxian was the adopted son of Jiang Fengmian and Yu Ziyuan, and though he was adopted at a young age, practically being raised alongside Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli, they had never been a stable family. The favoritism of Jiang Fengmian and anger of Yu Ziyuan were well known among their social circles. The siblings, as far as anyone could tell, loved each other deeply despite their parents’ problems.
Yet, Xichen explains to Mingjue, after Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng entered college, Jiang Fengmian and Madam Yu’s treatment of the boys grew worse. While Jiang Fengmian was actively pushing for Wei Wuxian to inherent as much, if not more, of Yunmeng Group, Madam Yu was actively trying to kick him out. Xichen didn’t know the particulars, but at some point, Jiang Cheng had transferred universities, packed up his belongings, and practically moved overnight.
The Jiang family had no idea where he went and no way to contact him. Jiang Cheng wasn’t stupid, and he had carefully covered his tracks. They didn’t hear from him for years, until two years ago, when he reached out with a generic email and phone number. As far as Xichen knew, the family hadn’t seen each other in person since Jiang Cheng left, but he had begun the process of reconciliation with his siblings.
“I’ve spent enough time with Wei Wuxian and Jiang Yanli over the past months. They clearly love and miss their brother, but I don’t think they ever understood why he left.” He sighs. “Even now, they talk about him almost as if his disappearance was an inconvenience rather than a wake-up call.”
Mingjue gapes. The very thought of Nie Huaisang running off without a word terrifies him. Without his brother in his life, a part of him would die. “How can they not care?” he practically growls.
Xichen’s hands calm him, rubbing circles on his shoulder. “It’s not that they don’t care, Da-ge. I think…,” he pauses and looks thoughtful, before pointing a finger at Mingjue, “and this isn’t gossip, Da-ge, this is simply advice and observation.”
Mingjue laughs, a good feeling in the thick atmosphere, and rolls his eyes. “Whatever you say, Xichen.”
Xichen nods, then continues, “I think that Yanli and Wuxian had a choice between dropping everything to track down their brother who clearly didn’t want to be found or holding on to the crumbling pieces of their family and hope for the best. Neither were good choices, but they were both so young at the time and hadn’t yet been forced to grow up. Something in Jiang Cheng made him leave when his siblings stayed. Even beyond that, Yanli and Wuxian are their own people. They had goals and dreams of their own they wanted to pursue.”
Xichen sighs, letting his eyes wander over to where Wangji and Wuxian were staring lovingly at each other. “To keep their happiness, they used Jiang Cheng as a scapegoat.” He pauses again, and Mingjue gives him the space to breathe. “It reminds me of my parents. Holding on can be so painful. No matter how much you love someone, they can still hurt you. Sometimes the best thing to do is walk away from the situation.”
Mingjue feels his shoulder slump. “Jiang Cheng hasn’t talked about his family much. For Huaisang’s sake, I was suspicious of the skeletons in his closer, but I also understood. He’s a good kid, and he treats Huaisang right.”
Xichen bites back a laugh, turning to Mingjue, “At this point, we should really start a ‘fucked-up-parents- club.” The tension in Mingjue’s body disappears and he’s chuckling. “And you know who else we could invite to that group?”
Xichen’s teasing smile has Mingjue groaning even before the name leaves his mouth. “Meng Yao!”
---
The taxi ride home after the disaster of a holiday party seemed to take forever. Over the past three hours, Mingjue had exhausted himself processing the Jiang Cheng, or Wanyin, situation.
All of his issues with his little brother’s boyfriend were easily written away with the simple (yet exceedingly melodramatic explanation) – Jiang Cheng was born into the messed-up, exceedingly elite world of business and had chosen to leave. He turned his back on the wealth and ease that his parents would have brought in an attempt to find happiness away from the negativity.
Mingjue didn’t know how he felt about the fact that Huaisang had become Jiang Cheng’s happiness.
Upon returning home, Mingjue paused a moment outside the door. His suit was unbearably stuffy at his point, but he also wasn’t quite sure how to proceed.
He hadn’t been good to Jiang Cheng. Even without knowing the complex reasons for Jiang Cheng’s behavior, he shouldn’t have been so hard on the man.
Mingjue had always been too protective of Huaisang, but the only thing he succeeded in was making Jiang Cheng feel unwelcome in yet another home. He let out a sign and squared his shoulders before opening the door.
The quiet noise of the T.V. filled the house. Huaisang and Jiang Cheng were wrapped in each other on the couch, though Jiang Cheng looked small in his arms. Only Huaisang looked up at Mingjue’s entrance.
Mingjue paused, then threw himself on the other end of the couch – Jiang Cheng now in between him and Huaisang.
Mingjue’s new presence caused Jiang Cheng to look up, seemingly coming back to himself for the first time.
“Ah, Mingjue,” Jiang Cheng started, wiggling in Huaisang’s arms to sit more upright. “I’m sorry about earlier. I didn’t mean to cause a scene, and –“
“Da-ge,” he interrupted.
Jiang Cheng paused mouth open and blinked slowly. Over his shoulder, Huaisang’s was squinting menacingly. “What,” he said dumbly.
Mingjue places a hand on Jiang Cheng’s shoulder. “Just call me Da-ge.”
When both Jiang Cheng and Huaisang just continue to stare at him, Mingjue knows he has to actually use his words. It takes a moment for him to find the rights things to say.
“I’ve been unfair to you, Jiang Cheng. I was so worried about Huaisang being hurt that I didn’t take the time to get to know you.” Mingjue shrugs, “I’m not saying this out of pity or anything, but tonight showed me how much I was overreacting. I don’t want a-Sang to lose out on someone as good as you, because I couldn’t get my head out of my ass.”
Jiang Cheng has begun to blush and Huaisang is smiling brightly at his brother.
“You’re a good kid, a-Cheng,” Mingjue says, pushing through the emotions. “I’m glad you’re part of our family now.”
At this, Jiang Cheng seems to collapse into the couch, but the slight smile on his face tells Mingjue that it’s going to be okay. Huaisang meets his eyes and gives him a small nod of approval.
Mentally patting himself on the back, Mingjue throws his arm overtop of Huaisang’s on Jiang Cheng’s shoulders, effectively wrapping the man even tighter. With the contented noise Jiang Cheng makes at the small gesture, Mingjue knows he will have to suffocate him in hugs later.
“So,” Mingjue continues, wanting to fully move past any more emotional discussions. “What are we watching?”
At Huaisang’s snort, Jiang Cheng whispers, “Air Buddies.”
Mingjue finally looks up at the screen to see a bunch of puppies running around a basketball court. At his confused stare, Huaisang adds, “It’s his comfort film.”
Jiang Cheng speaks up again, “Puppies are cute.”
Mingjue just nods and pulls the two boys closer to him as the movie plays, “They are adorable.”
Mingjue could admit when he was wrong. He might not always verbalize it or apologize for his actions, but he knew when he needed to be better. With Huaisang and Jiang Cheng piled up next to him, Mingjue knew he got it right.
Jiang Cheng wasn’t so bad after all.