Archive of Our Own

Hua Cheng knew that he wasn’t the most well liked person in the school.

Scratch that, he probably was the most hated. He could tell by the way the crowd parts when he walked or how they stayed away from him. The glares being sent in his direction with accompanied murmurs and how he was mostly alone when there was a group project and everything.

Yeah, he could take a hint.

Oddly enough, there was one person that disregarded all the filthy rumors that stuck to his name and the warnings from other people to not get near him like he was a curse. Okay, it might be sappy for him to say that the sole person who was kind to him was an angel.

Looking at the said person jogging towards him with a bright smile on his face, his now messy brown hair flowing in the wind, and his very snuggly appearance made him think.

Yeah. He’s an angel.

“San Lang!”

Hua Cheng, who was just sitting on the bench, immediately stood up to meet the other halfway with a smile of his own. Was it embarrassing to admit that he had a crush on Xie Lian?

He could only admit it to himself because there was no fucking way that the student body president who excelled in both academics and sports could return his feelings.

Sure, he had his puberty and he looked… decent . He wasn’t all gangly limbs since he had worked out to fill his bony body with muscles and he covered his right eye with a simple black eyepatch. He was more stylish than his younger years who donned himself with all black attires like some emo.

And despite him being a junior, he was already towering over Xie Lian. The latter was already in his senior year and even if Hua Cheng didn’t like the fact that he had to struggle an entire year without the other next year, they both promised that they would go to the same college.

“Gege,” he greeted once they were standing right in front of each other.

Xie Lian looked up at him with his kind, golden eyes, “Are you busy today?”

Hua Cheng didn’t have any assignments, so he shook his head, “I’m free, gege. What’s up?”

“Great. I’m stealing your time, then.” Xie Lian grinned. “I’m free the rest of the afternoon for once and I was hoping we could hang out.”

The taller one nodded, he knew that Xie Lian was busy the majority of the time. Even more so now that their graduation was approaching. The pair still hang out from time to time, sneaking out for a quick snack or watching a simple movie whenever they could. Hua Cheng was always free for the other and he was just simply waiting for an invitation.

“A rare occurrence,” Hua Cheng said. “How do you want to spend it, gege?”

Before the older could answer, he motioned the other to follow him and Hua Cheng easily did. “Does San Lang mind if we’ll just eat pizza at my place? We can finish that series that we started last week, too.”

Hua Cheng’s lips curled up to a smile, “Sounds like a plan. Ice cream?”

Xie Lian laughed and nodded, “Ice cream.”

They passed by the building where it was usually loitered by seniors and surprisingly, today was loud. It was always noisy since people never learned to lower their volume whenever they get dismissed after classes to enjoy their weekend, but today was extra loud.

“Is there something happening, gege?”

The two were walking beside each other and Xie Lian tilted his head towards the other, “Hm? Ah, I think it’s because of the prom. It was just announced today.”

At the mention of it, Hua Cheng scrunched his nose in disgust that made Xie Lian laugh. “It isn’t so bad, San Lang. It’s like some last gathering before we graduate.”

“Sounds like a hassle,” the taller huffed.

“There are certainly a lot of preparations involved,” the other hummed. “It was discussed in the council, too.”

Hua Cheng pouted at him, “Does that mean gege will be even busier?”

Xie Lian smiled apologetically, “Unfortunately.”

Hua Cheng held in a sigh. It wasn’t Xie Lian’s fault that a lot of people, even the teachers, relied on him too much and how everyone wanted his attention or to be friends. Surprisingly, though, Xie Lian was mostly all smiles and being respectful with everyone else. The only people he kept close were his horrible friends like Mu Qing and Feng Xin and his horrible batchmates like Shi Qingxuan and He Xuan.

And, yeah, him as well.

“Don’t worry,” Xie Lian nudged his forearm with his shoulder. “I’ll still be able to sneak my way one way or another.”

The other snorted, “Such a bad influence, gege. Surely dumb and dumber will be mad that you’re hanging out with me .”

“Not if I have anything to say about it,” the older huffed. “Don’t mind them, San Lang. Although, I think they’re starting to warm up to you.”

From the way they glared at each other whenever they crossed paths, Hua Cheng doubted it.

They continued chatting around, ignoring the way people stared at them. It wasn’t surprising that the two were together, but people still didn’t like Hua Cheng. Which was… fair. Hua Cheng himself wouldn’t let anyone like him go near Xie Lian at all but he was greedy and he’d never pass up the opportunity to spend time with the older.

The two passed by the principal’s office as they neared the exit of the campus and perhaps they should’ve taken a different route when they heard the principal, Mei Nianqing, calling for Xie Lian.

Both paused in their steps, not yet turning around.

“Do you want to run?” Hua Cheng asked cheekily.

“Yes,” Xie Lian easily admitted. “But, I can’t.”

Hua Cheng sighed as they both turned towards the principal, “How unfortunate.”

Xie Lian made a noise of agreement before he put on a pleasant smile on his face. To Hua Cheng, it was clearly a mask that the older one was fond of using whenever people wanted to talk to him but of course, he was still naturally kind so no one would think it was a mask.

“Xie Lian,” Mei Nianqing greeted him and merely gave a glance towards Hua Cheng.

Hua Cheng wanted to smack him.

Xie Lian tilted his head, smiling, “Is there anything you need, sir?”

Mei Nianqing nodded, “Ah, yes. I need to talk to you about something… privately.” He quickly added, “Don’t worry, it’ll be quick.”

Hua Cheng glanced at his companion and saw that he was hesitant to move, yet his smile never faltered. Eventually, Xie Lian nodded and followed the principal after shooting an apologetic look to the other.

“I’ll wait by the gates, gege.”

Xie Lian flashed him a smile and jogged towards Mei Nianqing. Hua Cheng looked in their direction until they disappeared to the principal’s office. He was sure that there was no way that the other would be in trouble, so it might be another request or something that Xie Lian had to do.

He stood by the gates obediently, glaring at anyone who started to look at him questioningly. People were always privy of things that they did not deserve to know. Although, he looked away when he saw that Shi Qingxuan was passing by the gates. He wouldn’t hear the end of it if he caught their attention.

When the coast was clear, he turned around and saw that Xie Lian was already jogging towards him with a huge smile. When it was close enough, he jumped towards Hua Cheng and the latter easily caught him, wrapping his arms around Xie Lian’s waist.

“I managed to escape,” Xie Lian said before giving one last squeeze of a hug and letting the other go.

“What did you two talk about?” Hua Cheng asked.

They were on the move, not wanting to waste any more of their time. They both wanted to relax and eat greasy food in Xie Lian’s fancy couch in his equally fancy home that he and his parents lived in. Oddly enough, Hua Cheng was pretty much welcomed there as Xie Lian’s mother doted on him and while Xie Lian’s father was a bit gruff with him, he wasn’t hostile.

“About a solo dance in the prom,” Xie Lian shrugged casually. “I have to do it.”

“Solo..?” Hua Cheng raised a brow.

“Well, I mean with a partner.”

“Who’s your partner?” Hua Cheng had to swallow something bitter as he asked that. He didn’t like the imagery of Xie Lian dancing with anyone.

“I don’t know yet,” Xie Lian replied and the other didn’t know why it felt there was something wrong.

“Oh.”

Xie Lian nudged him again, “Also, the principal said that the juniors will be included in the prom.”

Hua Cheng made a face of disgust, “Why?”

The other laughed, “I’m not exactly sure. He didn’t say the reason.” He grinned at him, “Will you go?”

Hua Cheng huffed, “Well, if gege’s going, I will.” Even if he would prefer dying than seeing Xie Lian dancing with someone else.

“Mm. That’s good, then.”

For a moment, Hua Cheng wondered why there was relief passing by Xie Lian’s face when he said that.

“Are you going to the prom?”

He Xuan’s hand, that was holding a piece of bread, paused midair as he stared blankly at the person right across from him. They were at the empty courtyard, a spot right under a large tree that could shield them away from the sun. Even if they weren’t fond of being outside, they would rather sit on the grass than suffer in the cafeteria and its poor food during lunch.

“Are you asking me out?” He asked, raising a brow.

Hua Cheng scoffed, “What? Fuck, no.”

“Thank god,” He Xuan took a huge bite off his bread. “I might’ve thrown up in disgust.”

“Likewise,” Hua Cheng said with a glare. “So? Are you going?”

“What choice do I have,” He Xuan replied dryly. “Shi Qingxuan wouldn’t take no as an answer.”

“Ah.”

Hua Cheng immediately understood the other. Shi Qingxuan would never pass up the opportunity to show up in something as grand as a prom to show off their custom made dress. How they and He Xuan got together was still an anomaly to him.

“Are you going?” He Xuan asked, but there was already a knowing glint in his eye. “It’s his last year.”

“I’m going,” he said, ignoring the last thing the other said.

“Xie Lian is coming, then?”

“Of course,” Hua Cheng said bitterly. “He has to. The principal even asked him to be in some special dance with someone.”

“Ouch,” He Xuan plainly said. He merely said it for Hua Cheng, surprisingly there wasn’t any mocking tone to his voice. “Tough luck, huh?”

“Shut up.”

The two fell into silence, eating their respective lunch. He Xuan took another piece of bread from his bag (how many were there?) and ate it, staring blankly out in the field. Hua Cheng didn’t even know why they were spending lunch together when their default feelings for each other was wanting to kick each other’s ass at any given opportunity.

They stayed there until they heard the bell rung, its noise reaching the courtyard. There were a lot of people beginning to move around and going to their designated classroom. Some were in a rush while others were calm. Both He Xuan and Hua Cheng were the latter as they made their way to their building.

While He Xuan continued walking, Hua Cheng stopped in his tracks when he heard a familiar voice shouting his name. He Xuan stopped as well and both searched where it was coming from.

To their surprise, it was Xie Lian running towards them. He was now shouting both their names.

“Oh, look,” He Xuan said. “It’s your crush.”

“Shut the fuck up.”

He Xuan snickered but didn’t say anything else. He didn’t have a death wish, thank you.

When Xie Lian stopped in front of them, he bent down and supported himself with his hands on his knees as he tried to catch their breath. Neither juniors rushed into him talking since obviously, Hua Cheng was whipped and He Xuan was surprisingly respectful towards the older.

Xie Lian soon straightened up and grinned, “Hi, guys! Sorry for holding you guys up.”

“Not a problem, gege,” Hua Cheng said, he would rather spend his time with him than attend class. “What’s up?”

He Xuan shrugged but greeted, “Xie Lian.”

“He Xuan,” the senior greeted brightly. “Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten my promise.”

Hua Cheng gave a sideway glance at his companion, but the latter didn’t dare acknowledge it.”

“It’s fine,” he replied smoothly. “Next time.”

“Okay,” Xie Lian nodded, then focused on Hua Cheng. No one noted how his smile stretched a bit wider, “San Lang, can you meet me later at room 204 in the senior building?”

Hua Cheng furrowed his eyebrows in confusion, but nodded anyway, “Sure, gege. Did something happen?”

Xie Lian blinked and shook his head furiously, “Oh, no. Don’t worry, San Lang. I just need a little help.”

“Oh… Alright.”

“Thank you,” the senior said warmly and hugged the other tightly. Hua Cheng wrapped his arms just as tight while ignoring the way He Xuan snorted right beside him, unaffected that he was being a third wheel at the moment.

The moment Xie Lian pulled back, Hua Cheng wanted to chase him and hug him close again and never let him go, but he restrained himself. The other was smiling at him again.

“Thank you again, San Lang. I’ll see you later after your class?”

“Of course, gege.”

Xie Lian nodded and bid the two goodbye, rushing back to his own building since he was probably late to his class like the two of them. He Xuan shot him a look when the senior was long gone and he simply shrugged in response. He had no idea what Xie Lian wanted either.

“He’s either going to confess to you,” He Xuan started as they made their way through the stairs. “Or he’s going to abuse your height and use you as a ladder or something.”

Hua Cheng scoffed, holding the urge to roll his eye, “The first one sounds impossible, asshat.”

Unexpectedly, Hua Cheng didn’t catch He Xuan muttering under his breath, “I doubt that.”

The moment his last class ended, he ditched He Xuan and made his way to where Xie Lian asked him to go.

He was a bit nervous and overall curious why Xie Lian wasn’t specific with his request. Usually, he would tell it right off the bat and Hua Cheng would easily go along with it even if it was borderline ridiculous. So, if Xie Lian asked him to meet him in a room to murder him or something like that, he didn’t mind. It was Xie Lian, after all.

As he climbed the stairs, he crossed paths with dumb and dumber. The immediate reaction of the three of them was a glare that could probably cut through steel. They didn’t like each other and they probably never will. The only reason why they hadn’t killed each other yet was because they love Xie Lian.

“What are you doing here?” Feng Xin asked while looking at him suspiciously.

It was oh so tempting to spat out that it was none of their business. Instead, he replied as calmly as he could through gritted teeth, “Gege asked me to meet him.”

Mu Qing and Feng Xin glanced at each other, then back at him. They looked like they wanted to demand some more information from him, but Hua Cheng ignored them completely and stormed up the stairs. He didn’t want to waste any more time.

Hua Cheng made his way to the second floor, keeping his eye high to look for the room number. He passed by a few seniors already and they most likely knew his acquaintance with Xie Lian, considering that he wasn’t being pried to why he was there.

Or, he was intimidating them. Either way worked just fine.

Once he found the room, he took a deep breath before knocking. Immediately, he heard Xie Lian’s voice telling him to come inside. He gripped onto the doorknob and twisted it open.

He entered the room and was surprised to see that it was empty, saving Xie Lian who was standing right in the middle. The room was just as big as the other rooms in the other building. What he didn’t expect was that all the chairs were pushed until they hit the walls, giving the center of the room some clearer space.

“Gege?” he asked, still couldn’t grasp the situation.

Xie Lian was taking a deep breath before he turned towards him with a grin, “San Lang! Uh, could you lock the door first? You can drop your bag anywhere.”

Hua Cheng was even more confused but followed the senior. He locked the door and marched towards Xie Lian’s bag that was resting on the teacher’s table and plopped his bag down. Then, he peered over his shoulder to see that the other was asking him to stand beside him.

He raised a brow expectantly, “What’s with all these, gege? It feels so secretive all of a sudden.”

Xie Lian merely laughed, “Well, it kinda is.”

Hua Cheng tilted his head in question, silent as he waited for an answer. Xie Lian cleared his throat and averted his gaze. He certainly looked nervous at this point which was a total surprise to the taller. Why was he like that?

Then, He Xuan’s words echoed in his mind and he quickly shook his head internally. There was no way that Xie Lian would actually confess, right? And it was more unusual to do it in a classroom than in their hang out spots.

His heart started beating faster, he still shouldn’t get ahead of himself. Finally, Xie Lian spoke up.

“I.. just wanted to ask for your help… It’s a pretty big deal, so it’s alright if you decline.”

Hua Cheng kept his heart at bay as he gently placed his hands on the senior’s shoulder, reassuring him. “Just tell me, gege. I’ll do the best that I can.”

“Thank you,” Xie Lian said, smiling small. “I, ah, actually need help with the dance. Remember that?”

The other winced at the mention of it and nodded slowly, “En. Of course this San Lang remembers what gege tells me. What about it?”

“I need to practice it,” the senior continued, voice more firm. “The principal handed me a special routine for it and I need a partner to practice with.”

Hua Cheng was confused, “I understand but shouldn’t gege practice with his actual partner?”

“He said to practice separately,” Xie Lian said and somehow, Hua Cheng felt like his tone was off. “I don’t know why, but I have to follow him.”

It took a moment for Hua Cheng to respond. He was happy that he could assist Xie Lian and he could be his partner during practices. On the other hand, he didn’t like that he was practicing the dance that Xie Lian had to dance with someone else. It left him a little bit bitter, but him wanting to please the senior edged his bitterness.

“Alright,” he responded slowly. “I’ll do the best that I can, gege.”

Xie Lian was both relieved and happy, hugging Hua Cheng tightly, “Thank you so much, San Lang!”

Hua Cheng returned the hug, murmuring a soft, “Anything for you, gege.” He was still bitter about it, of course, but he would not pass up the opportunity to spend more time with Xie Lian and due to the dance, at an even closer proximity.

He wondered if he would survive it.

Their first day of practice was the next day in the same room. Since the dance was actually a surprise for the prom itself, Xie Lian had to practice in secret. No one would question why Xie Lian needed a room for himself after classes, since it was him. There was nothing fishy about it. Of course, there were a few curious bunch that would try to check things out but Xie Lian made sure that the interior of the room couldn’t be seen.

Hua Cheng removed his jacket and haphazardly threw it over their bags that were on the teacher’s table to feel more comfortable. The air conditioner was in full blast and Hua Cheng was grateful that it was. Mei Nianqing was pretty lenient when Xie Lian asked permission to practice in one of the classrooms.

Xie Lian was reviewing what they were going to do with a focused gaze that was fixated on his phone screen. Hua Cheng wanted to take a peek as well, but seeing how concentrated the other way, he might break that if he went closer.

Luckily enough, he didn’t have two left feet so he could dance decently. He wasn’t as good as Xie Lian (since, wow, he was good at everything. Except cooking, but he did truly enjoy the senior’s creations.), but he could keep up. Probably.

When it was done, Xie Lian nodded to himself and placed his phone on the nearest chair before walking towards Hua Cheng.

“Well?” Hua Cheng asked with a grin.

“It’s easy, I think.” Xie Lian laughed. “I think I got it memorized. I’ve been reviewing it since last night.”

“Gege is so talented,” the other praised. “Please take care of me, hm? Ah, should I call you Shizun now? Or Coach?”

“Please don’t,” Xie Lian snorted, a blush creeping up his neck. “Let’s get started.”

Hua Cheng was grinning mischievously, but quickly obeyed.

They first started without the music and Xie Lian helped through him step by step. He wasn’t a slow learner, so he picked it up fairly quickly. He did step on the senior’s foot a few times and vice versa, but it was fine.

Their positions were a bit funny at first, considering that it was Xie Lian taking the lead while Hua Cheng followed. It was only awkward because of their height difference. Hua Cheng didn’t mind it since he liked the feeling of Xie Lian’s hand on his waist as his hand was busy resting on the other’s broad shoulder.

Their other hands were intertwined as they went through the first part slowly, Xie Lian muttering the instructions under his breath as his gaze was more focused on their feet. Hua Cheng took this as a chance to look at Xie Lian’s face adoringly, tracing his features with his eye to commit everything to his memory.

As time passed, Hua Cheng realized that all sides of Xie Lian were deadly, especially when he was focused on doing something. This afternoon was no exception. His side angle, showing off his jaw, tempted Hua Cheng to faint or something.

God, he was so pathetic with his crush.

When Xie Lian seemed satisfied with their first part, they did the second one while they still had the time.

The second part was a bit harder than the first, but nothing too complicated that they managed to finish the half of it well enough for Xie Lian to tell him that it was time to end their session. When he checked his phone for the time, it was the right decision.

“It’s already late,” Xie Lian said, wiping his sweaty forehead with a hand towel. “Want to have dinner at home?”

“Is it okay?” Hua Cheng asked, secretly blissful that he got to hold the other for a long time.

“Of course!” the other exclaimed. “I should treat you to dinner after every practice. It’s my way of saying thanks.”

“You don’t need to do that, gege. I’m always willing to help.” Hua Cheng stuffed his jacket in his bag since his body felt too hot after moving for so long. “But if you insist…”

Xie Lian laughed loudly, “Don’t worry, San Lang. I’ll treat you to your favorite ramen place, too.”

“What about burgers?”

“Of course.”

“Now that’s a sweet deal,” Hua Cheng grinned toothedly. “I can feel the love and appreciation, gege.”

The senior chuckled, looking at the other fondly, “Good.”

There were only four weeks until the grand night. Hua Cheng still didn’t understand why the juniors had to be included in the party. Maybe they wouldn’t set something up like this when he was going to be a senior next? Possible.

He and Xie Lian decided that they practiced without music for two weeks and with music for the last two weeks. They didn’t practice everyday for the second week since they nailed the dance down just in the first week.

They still hung out even when they weren’t practicing, sometimes with He Xuan and Shi Qingxuan or with dumb and dumber. There were more than one occasion that Hua Cheng wanted to ditch hanging out because of the ‘extras’ but since Xie Lian was still present, he wanted to go.

At the moment, they were at some pizza joint when Shi Qingxuan dragged him, Xie Lian, and He Xuan the moment their classes ended. The senior only relented since they didn’t have a scheduled practice for the afternoon and he did need a break.

Shi Qingxuan was also paying, so that was a bonus.

“Care to tell us why you dragged us here?” Hua Cheng asked, grabbing his third slice of pepperoni pizza.

“I just missed you guys,” they whined. “Is that wrong?”

“It is,” He Xuan said at the same time Xie Lian said, “No.”

Hua Cheng snorted, “You have an ulterior motive.”

Shi Qingxuan hummed as they grabbed some onion rings in the large serving plate and that was enough to confirm that Hua Cheng was right. They did have something in mind when they dragged them here.

“Well,” they looked at Xie Lian. “I just wanted to ask A-Lian something.”

The said man tilted his head, “You couldn’t message me instead?”

“Because you will avoid answering it,” Shi Qingxuan pouted. “So, it’s better to ask you outright.”

Xie Lian coughed, knowing that it was true. “What is then, A-Xuan?”

The other leaned forward while the other two were silently eating, “So, what have you and Hua Cheng been doing these past days? You guys are like, extra busy.”

The senior awkwardly laughed, taking a small bite of his pizza, “Stuff.”

“See, you’re avoiding it!” they whined.

“It’s nothing,” Xie Lian said easily. “It’s a secret.”

“Are you guys planning some murder? Or?”

“Nothing as elaborate as that,” Xie Lian replied with an amused huff. “Okay, if I tell you guys, you promise you will be quiet about it?”

Shi Qingxuan’s eyes brightened and nodded quickly while He Xuan shrugged, not really caring. Hua Cheng knew that the latter could keep a secret just because he didn’t care. The former, however, was a tough choice.

“I’m serious about this, A-Xuan,” Xie Lian said with a raised brow. “No one is allowed to know.”

The other quickly did the typical zipping of their mouth motion, “I promise!”

Xie Lian stared them down for a few more seconds before sighing, “Okay. The principal assigned me to do this special dance for prom.”

“Oh,” Shi Qingxuan said in awe. “So, you’ve been practicing it with Hua Cheng?”

“En.”

“Huh,” they blinked. “Who’s your partner then? Shouldn’t you practice with them instead?”

Hua Cheng wanted to know that as well, but when Xie Lian stiffened beside him, he couldn’t help but steal a glance at him. He was surprised to see Xie Lian’s hardened smile. It wasn’t that obvious, but there was something in there that Shi Qingxuan didn’t even pry for answers anymore.

When they first tried to do the dance with the music on, Hua Cheng couldn’t help but clutch his sides as he cackled out loud. He honestly should’ve expected this, but it was still pretty fucking funny.

The song for the dance was ‘Can I Have This Dance’ from the High School Musical 3. It was a nice song. He listened to it a few times (don’t judge him) and it was a pretty valid song choice. It was still funny because of course they would choose it.

Xie Lian joined in his laughter with his own giggles, "It’s a valid song choice, San Lang. Don’t judge.”

“I’m not judging,” he said with a grin, then outstretched his hand just in time for the second verse. He mouthed the lyrics with a silly grin, “Take my hand, I’ll take the lead and every turn will be safe with me.”

“Actually, I’m leading,” Xie Lian teased and took the other’s hand to pull him close. “Don’t be afraid, afraid to fall. You know I’ll catch you through it all.”

It was cheesy, a little bit cliche and it was the song’s lyrics, but Hua Cheng could feel himself melting when Xie Lian mouthed those words with a certain warmth in his eyes. Oh, to have this moment for eternity.

They rewinded the song when they stopped playing around with it so they could do a test run through with the timing. It was way different when it was Xie Lian counting their movements. They stumbled a bit on their first try, as if it was their first day of practice all over again. It was fun, them teasing and laughing at each other.

They tried it a few more times and they partially succeeded after a good while. They memorized the steps but having to be in time with the music was a first to them. It was alright, they still had time.

Hua Cheng had to admit that past the silliness of their mistakes, it felt rather intimate despite the room they were practicing in. The area was still bright, the air conditioner humming in the background, the chairs were in a bit of disarray, but there was something private about this moment that he couldn’t help but let his heart beat fast again.

From a close distance, he wondered if Xie Lian could hear it? Looking at the said senior, he was all smiles, still giggling when Hua Cheng accidentally stepped on his foot in a rush to match with the song. There was sweat slowly trailing down his eyebrow to his cheek and all Hua Cheng could think about was how beautiful he was.

Xie Lian seemed to sense his staring and peered up to him, craning his neck up slightly to lock eyes with him. He was still smiling, although it had gotten softer and more fond as he continued to lead Hua Cheng through the dance.

They were standing so close that Hua Cheng could probably swoop down and kiss Xie Lian. He blinked in surprise when the senior’s eyes dropped down to his lips and quickly brought it back up, his smile now abashed.

Were they thinking the same thing for a moment there?

When practice ended, they went to their usual spot. It was a hole-in-the-wall kind of place that Xie Lian’s parents didn’t know that Xie Lian enjoyed eating at. They were a well-off kind of family, so that wasn’t a surprise.

Hua Cheng, on the other hand, was pretty much broke. He still had some money to go through his high school years but if he decided to go to college, he needed to work to cover a lot of his expenses soon enough.

It was fine. He could handle it.

As they ate, Hua Cheng still tried to pry some answers from Xie Lian like who his partner was. All he ever received was a smile and a teasing wink. He didn’t know if he should feel giddy about it or bitter at the fact that there was a chance that he would watch Xie Lian being close with someone else.

Maybe he could sneak off when it was time? But that would appear rude to Xie Lian and he didn’t want to upset it.

Probably noticing his inner turmoil, Xie Lian said lightly, “Don’t worry, San Lang. You’ll find out soon enough.” Maybe he thought that Hua Cheng was upset that he didn’t answer him.

“Okay, gege.”

Oh well.

When Hua Cheng said that he would pick up Xie Lian to join him to the prom, he didn’t know how he would actually bring them to the venue.

He arrived at Xie Lian’s doorsteps pretty early, nervous as he was. He glanced down at his suit, a simple black button up shirt, a maroon blazer on top of it and black slacks. He left his  hair as messy as he usually would everyday. He only got this fancy because of Shi Qingxuan, but it was in his taste so he didn’t mind it. They even gave him a sleeker black eye patch just to match the event. It was weird but he accepted it.

Once he was ready, he took a deep breath and knocked on the door. There was movement inside, feet shuffled to the door and someone was already unlocking the door. Hua Cheng blinked in surprise when he was face to face with Xie Lian’s mother who cooed at him.

“You look so handsome,” she said appreciatively. “Come in, A-Lian is still getting ready.”

Hua Cheng nodded awkwardly and followed her inside. They were heading towards the living room where Xie Lian’s father was sitting on one of the couches. She then urged Hua Cheng to sit down right across from the older man and you know what, he was kind of terrified.

“I’ll tell him that you’re already here.”

He sat stiffly while Xie Lian’s father was raking his eyes over his figure in scrutiny. He didn’t get the chance to even reply to Xie Lian’s mother when his lips were sealed shut.

“You fixed up well.”

“Thank you,” Hua Cheng replied, lips tugging up awkwardly. Great.

Then, Xie Lian’s father averted his gaze down to his newspaper that Hua Cheng didn’t notice at first. He really was the stern father in every story, but he was somehow nicer. Still strict and intimidating, but nicer. He didn’t miss the way the corner of Xie Lian’s father’s lips were twitching upwards.

A few moments later, there were two sets of footsteps heading towards the living room. Hua Cheng immediately turned his head to the doorway. He held his breath when he saw Xie Lian’s mother first, then Xie Lian himself.

The senior was even more beautiful and handsome in his formal attire. He had a black dress shirt underneath a white blazer jacket. His white slacks were hugging the right places and Hua Cheng had to bring his eye upwards to see Xie Lian messing with his white tie with a shy smile on his face.

“San Lang,” Xie Lian greeted and the other noticed that there was a red tint to his cheeks. “You look good.”

Hua Cheng stood up somewhat mechanically as he tried to smoothly say, “Gege looks wonderful.”

They stared at each other for a moment before breaking into fits of laughter to dissipate whatever tension they had as they quietly studied each other on a rare occasion that they were in a suit.

Xie Lian’s mother approached Xie Lian and helped him fix his tie in its proper place and styled his hair for a bit. Hua Cheng almost felt out of place that he didn’t put much effort on himself compared to the senior.

“Both of you are so handsome,” Xie Lian’s mother cooed once they stood beside each other. Then, her eyes lit up. “Oh, I think you guys are missing one more thing.”

Xie Lian blinked, “I don’t think so, mother.”

“Shh, trust me on this. I’ll be right back.”

When she went off to somewhere else, both Xie Lian and Hua Cheng looked at each other. Their expressions mirrored with raised brows and had a confused twist in their faces. Their situation was getting a bit weirder.

“Trust her,” Xie Lian’s father said as he turned to the next page of his newspaper. “Then you can leave.”

“Okay,” Xie Lian answered slowly, then nudged playfully at Hua Cheng. The latter reciprocated the gesture with a small grin.

Soon, Xie Lian’s mother returned with a bright smile on her face as if she was proud of her work. Then, both boys’ gazes looked down on her hands and saw one red rose and one white rose.

She approached Hua Cheng first and put the white rose in his breast pocket. Luckily enough, both roses were styled to do such a thing. It was so cliche that Hua Cheng didn’t think about doing it until Xie Lian’s mother presented the roses to them.

Once she was done, she patted Hua Cheng’s chest then moved on to Xie Lian. She did the exact movements with the red rose. She patted his chest as well before stepping back to appraise her job.

Xie Lian’s mother nodded in approval, “You two look great having each other’s color.”

Hua Cheng and Xie Lian could feel their cheeks burning at her comment as they both stole a glance at each other. The contrast was evident, their own respective roses popping out due to their blazers.

“Mother,” Xie Lian whined, his face already the same color as the rose.

“Now, now. Just appreciate my efforts and go.” She quickly ushered them to the front door. “Don’t be late.”

Even if the two wanted to complain, they couldn’t since they were already by the door and she was already gently pushing them outside. Gentle, but very persistent. So, it was a shock to them when the cool air hit their skin the moment they stepped outside and Xie Lian’s mother shut the door with a wave.

“Well,” Hua Cheng snorted.

“We don’t have a choice,” Xie Lian laughed.

Their embarrassment slowly disappeared, their heating faces cooling down due to the evening air. It was fine that way. Hua Cheng was tempted to beg the ground to swallow him whole there. When he looked down to see the white rose, though, he felt elated.

“I said I’d pick you up,” Hua Cheng said as they started going down the path to go to the sidewalk. “But I don’t really have anything to drive with.”

Xie Lian chuckled, endeared, “We could walk?”

“Gege, it’s so far away. We’ll be sweaty by then.”

“Fair,” the other easily agreed. “Want to take a cab, then?”

It was the least romantic way to go there, but Hua Cheng readily agreed. Besides, he assumed that Xie Lian thought they were going to the hotel together as friends and nothing more. Which was both fine and painful to him.

They started walking but they darted their eyes on the road from time to time, hoping that it was a cab passing by. There was around thirty minutes left until call time for them and a cab ride would take at least fifteen. They weren’t rushing much.

It took around five minutes until they hailed a cab. They looked out of place on the sidewalk, wearing their pristine suits and the newly attained roses on them. There was some passerby whispering when they passed by them, curious why they were dressed like that.

They didn’t mind, though. They killed their time chatting about everything and nothing, continuing it when they rode the cab and gave directions to the fancy hotel that Hua Cheng couldn’t remember. Xie Lian remembered it, so that was an easy fix to the problem.

It was more comfortable than he thought.

When they arrived at the venue, they both took a moment to appreciate that the school did use their budget to the fullest to rent out an event hall for their prom. It was grand unlike what Hua Cheng saw most of the time. He didn’t dwell in the richer parts of the city because fuck capitalism.

As they entered the hotel, Xie Lian was immediately sought after by Mei Nianqing. He was still the student council president, so he and the other council members had to assist the teachers with the rest of the presentation.

Before he let himself get dragged, Xie Lian shouted over his shoulder, “San Lang! Text me where you’re seated, okay?!”

Hua Cheng was a tad bit confused, but nodded and gave a thumbs up to let Xie Lian know that he understood. The senior flashed him a smile before he disappeared somewhere with Mei Nianqing, slaving him away to work despite it being a party for their batch.

With nothing to do, he decided to seek out someone he knew. It would be boring alone and annoying if he would encounter people he actually hated . He could tolerate both Shi Qingxuan and He Xuan, so when he saw them by the double doors of the entrance to the event hall, he was oddly relieved.

Shi Qingxuan was definitely the life of the party, mingling with people in their batch and some of the seniors. They were wearing an elegant and beautiful aqua green dress, and Hua Cheng had to admit that it suited them. He Xuan, on the other hand, was wearing an all black (wow, surprise) suit and grumbling away at a corner while watching his lover being the loud oddball that they were.

He approached He Xuan who was standing by a vase that was probably more expensive than his tuition.

“They ditched you?” Hua Cheng snickered.

“They’re too busy with others,” He Xuan grunted, then he gave a sideways glance. “Did he ditch you?”

“No. Mei Nianqing got him.”

“Ah,” the other said. “President duties.”

“Yeah,” Hua Cheng cringed. “And maybe they’re preparing him for the dance or whatever.”

“Hm,” He Xuan hummed as the both of them watched Shi Qingxuan chatting with some seniors animatedly. “I heard that’s gonna be at the last part or something. Did he tell you who his partner is yet?”

“No,” the other shook his head. “I never asked again.”

He Xuan gave him a knowing look, yet it irritated Hua Cheng since he didn’t say anything else. He then got distracted when Shi Qingxuan was hopping towards them with a huge grin.

“You’re already tiring yourself before the prom,” Hua Cheng said.

“I have a lot more stamina than that,” Shi Qingxuan replied, then paused to take a look at Hua Cheng. “Oh, wow. It really does suit you. You look great.”

“Thanks,” the other replied dryly.

“Now don’t be like that,” Shi Qingxuan pouted, then glanced at the white rose. They wiggle their eyebrows suggestively “Unless you want to tell me what that rose means?”

Hua Cheng faked a cough, “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Meanie.”

“Shut up.”

Soon, more people filed in right in front of the entrance and tried to meet up with their group of friends. They were already moving around with their flashy dresses and suits, some were obviously custom made. Hua Cheng really got lucky to get his shit for free all thanks to his loud… friend. Acquaintance. He couldn’t determine yet.

He Xuan looked more and more like he was tempted to blend with the wall the more people came. He hated the crowd, but was forced to join because of Shi Qingxuan. Hua Cheng could already imagine him and He Xuan sitting at the most corner table, eating the night away while either watching Shi Qingxuan partying or Hua Cheng would be too occupied being bitter about Xie Lian’s dance.

The doors then opened, urging for the students to come inside. They did it more or less in an organized way, keeping a line and signing beside their name for attendance before they could actually enter the event hall.

The three of them were already lined up and were getting closer. Hua Cheng wanted to sit down and drink the stupid complimentary water already despite it having a strange taste to it. He wasn’t that picky.

He Xuan signed first, then Shi Qingxuan, and finally Hua Cheng. His was a scribbled mess compared to his peers, but he didn’t actually give a fuck. He dropped the pen, glared challengingly at the council member before heading inside.

The event hall was large and decorated with everything that he imagined a formal party would be. The dining area was cut in half with a red carpet, multiple round tables occupying the left and right side of the hall. The front area that started at the other end of the carpet was a huge space with long tables on each side and a stage right at the center. That was probably for awards for the night.

Between the long tables for the teachers, was an empty floor and that was where the students would probably dance. Where Xie Lian would do the dance.

His eye was able to find He Xuan at the corner most table of the right side of the hall, the area dimmer than most areas. Shi Qingxuan looked like they were already complaining about He Xuan’s poor choice of an area, but Hua Cheng thought it was perfect.

He strode over and took a seat right beside Shi Qingxuan, easily facing the front. It would be painful to watch Xie Lian dance with someone else, but he didn’t want to miss him dancing in that suit.

Hua Cheng took out his phone from his pocket and sent a quick text to Xie Lian about his location and received just as fast of a reply, saying that he got it. He was to Xie Lian’s left.

“Why are we here?” Shi Qingxuan whined. “It’s so dark .”

“Change tables, then,” Hua Cheng arched his brow. “I think it’s perfect.”

“It’s because you hate people, too,” Shi Qingxuan said petulantly. “ But I would rather stay here and create memories with you guys than hang out with others.”

“How touching,” Hua Cheng said dryly, keeping his phone in his pockets again.

He Xuan actually had to stop Shi Qingxuan from attacking Hua Cheng and all the latter did was snicker when Shi Qingxuan’s hits kept missing.

Once the hall was filled, everyone had already taken their places. There were a few that tried to go near their table, but were quickly reflected by Hua Cheng and He Xuan’s perfect glares (much to Shi Qingxuan’s dismay).

Even from afar, Hua Cheng quickly spotted Xie Lian at the front area, smiling pleasantly with the teachers and council members. It must’ve been tough for the senior to do so many things in the party he was supposed to enjoy, but he was still radiating under the multicolored LED lights.

The event soon started with Mei Nianqing speaking first for the opening. Most were bored to death with it, but some did try to listen. After all, they did spend a hefty amount for this night. Hua Cheng and the others couldn’t care less, talking amongst themselves instead.

“Have you found out his partner yet?” Shi Qingxuan asked again.

“For the nth time, no,” Hua Cheng said with gritted teeth.

“Aren’t you curious?”

“Of course I am,” the other replied. “But I don’t want to push. Besides, no one else knows about it, remember?”

“Oh, right.”

The evening passed by quickly after the principal’s speech. After more speaking, there were three small groups performing a choreographed dance with at least ten pairs in each group. It was a bit entertaining, Hua Cheng had to admit.

The three didn’t miss the way people murmured wondering where Xie Lian was when the third and final group ended their dance. It was unusual that Xie Lian would miss something like that. He would usually be present in intermission numbers whenever he could.

Shi Qingxuan was giggling, “It makes me feel powerful that I know something behind the scenes.”

In a way, that was true. There was something about knowing information that almost nobody knew. In this case, however, Hua Cheng could feel his stomach twisting uncomfortably.

After some more talking, it was finally time to eat. He Xuan was letting out a loud gruff that sounded like ‘Thank fucking god’. Probably too hungry.

The servers made their way to their table, serving them their food and glasses of iced tea while refilling their glasses of water as well. The food… didn’t look good. Plain, boring and made one wonder if it was actually from a three star hotel.

“The food is…”

“Shit,” both He Xuan and Hua Cheng said at the same time.

Shi Qingxuan nodded solemnly, “Here I thought we’d eat something luxurious considering the venue.”

“They probably went all out on the venue itself and forgot about feeding us,” Hua Cheng said as he took a bite at the poor excuse of a pork on his plate.

He Xuan was grumbling in complaint as well but still continued eating. The other two ate as well despite their own complaints, too hungry to reject the food. They regretted not eating something beforehand.

Hua Cheng glanced at the front area again and saw that Xie Lian was looking at his way as he took slow bites of his food. He wasn’t sure what the senior was looking for but when they locked eyes for a brief moment, they exchanged wide grins before Xie Lian’s attention was grabbed by a teacher.

Hua Cheng sighed as he stared down at his plate. He wanted to be with Xie Lian throughout the party but the world hated him tonight.

When they finished eating, they continued making small talks with just the three of them. Shi Qingxuan looked like they wanted to jump from table to table to talk with more people, but they remained in their seats.

Thirty minutes passed and Hua Cheng was starting to get bored. The thought of taking a nap crossed his mind until he heard a finger tapping on the mic echo in the large hall. It had its effect when people’s eyes were now averted to the front area as Mei Nianqing cleared their throat.

“Test,” he said, his eyes wandering around the crowd. “May I have your attention, please?”

Hua Cheng propped his elbow on the table and rested his chin on his palm, waiting. He wasn’t ready yet but something in his gut told him that the principal was about to announce the dance.

“We had three groups of our wonderful seniors dancing different routines tonight and I hope you are all excited to see one more routine by a senior you all adore.”

Whispers broke in the hall, Xie Lian’s name bouncing off everywhere. The said senior was laughing nervously in the front, smiling shyly at the nearby fellow batchmates that were whooping in support.

“Xie Lian,” Mei Nianqing called and Xie Lian quickly stood beside the principal. “Has been given to honor to choose a special someone to dance this routine with tonight. Respect his decision.”

More excited whispers were now circling the hall. Some were hoping it was them, some were guessing and betting who Xie Lian would choose. Shi Qingxuan was also involved in guessing but strangely enough, they were looking at Hua Cheng while doing so. He Xuan was rolling his eyes, not exactly giving a damn.

Hua Cheng, on the other hand, was feeling dread at the pit of his stomach. His tongue could taste something bitter already, wanting to drop his gaze on the stupid table than watch Xie Lian approach someone.

A special someone.

There wasn’t any hope that it could be him.

“Quiet, everyone,” Mei Nianqing’s voice boomed through the mic and it was a bit effective. He looked at Xie Lian and nodded, “Go ahead.”

Xie Lian smiled, it was a bit painful and nervous like he didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. The sudden attention on him was heavy but he tried to carry on. He fixed his blazer as his eyes scanned the crowd, smiling pleasantly as he locked eyes with multiple people.

He tried not to look obvious but he walked at the center, sometimes walking to his right and sometimes walking to his left. He hoped the person that helped a light follow him wasn’t too pissed about it. There were a lot of whooping and hopeful looks on people’s faces that Xie Lian almost felt bad about it. He continued his stride in the center until he reached the double doors.

A lot were confused but then, he went to his left as he headed to the most corner table to his left. Hua Cheng didn’t notice since his eye was casted down.

Shi Qingxuan was already squealing, patting the table to gain Hua Cheng’s attention, “He’s coming over here!”

Hua Cheng looked up in irritation, “Stop that.”

“No, look!”

So, he did look and he almost got a heart attack when he saw Xie Lian smiling as he walked towards their table as a light was following him. God, even during his near death, Hua Cheng thought that Xie Lian was handsome as he strode confidently to them.

Xie Lian was even more ethereal under the light.

When Xie Lian stopped in front of him, the murmurs went silent and Hua Cheng’s eye widened. Was he hallucinating or was Xie Lian really standing in front of him? It went impossibly wider when Xie Lian outstretched his hand to him, an offer.

“May I have this dance?”

Everyone suddenly went wild at the question and Shi Qingxuan was screaming “Oh my god, they have matching roses!” in the background.

“G-Gege?” Hua Cheng’s voice fucking squeaked . He felt like he could faint at any moment. Which was very valid of him.

Xie Lian’s confident smile went softer, turning fond, “Would you give me the honor to dance with you?”

Despite his questionably racing heart, Hua Cheng took the senior’s hand with a silent gulp and let himself be pulled by Xie Lian. His ears were getting deaf by everyone’s screaming as Xie Lian led him to the front area with a firm grip with their intertwined hands.

Hua Cheng was staring dumbly at the back of Xie Lian’s head, wondering if he was dreaming. He didn’t miss the way Xie Lian’s ears were bright red as they finally stood on the empty floor with everyone’s attention on them.

Xie Lian faced him, he now looked shy compared to earlier and the blue light wasn’t enough to hide the blooming red in the senior’s cheeks. Hua Cheng was sure that it didn’t mask his face either.

“So..” Hua Cheng started, unsure what to say.

Xie Lian took a deep breath before looking at him in the eye. “My special someone has always been you, San Lang.”

Hua Cheng was ready to pass out right then and there due to the sudden confession and the intense gaze that the senior was giving him. He wanted to ask something but the song started as soon as he opened his mouth and they slowly met each other halfway, holding each other close like they did for weeks.

“Like practice?” Hua Cheng breathed out.

“Like practice,” Xie Lian smiled at him.

It was probably the nerves hitting them with the heat of multiple lights on them and the rapt attention from the crowd that made Hua Cheng sweat more than he ever did during practice. They stumbled a bit around the first part, making each other break the tension with their soft giggles.

The cliche song was still booming through the speakers as they took a practiced step, a turn, and then another step with ease. Somehow, Xie Lian pulled Hua Cheng a bit closer with a shy smile.

Hua Cheng still felt like it was a dream and he suddenly thought that it was foolish of him to feel bitter. He should’ve been happy if Xie Lian chose someone else, but now, he was elated that the senior chose him instead and no one else. He liked how Xie Lian’s attention was on him, his hands on his waist was firm and gentle, and the way he led them around the dance was even more intimate than during practice.

Hua Cheng glanced down from the senior’s face to the red rose that was snuggling comfortably in his pocket. Something clicked in his mind as they did another turn.

“The rose?”

Xie Lian blinked and smiled sheepishly, “My idea. I asked my mom if she was willing to help.”

She was very willing based on her actions earlier.

They went impossibly closer by the second verse of the song and people were already whooping and demanded a kiss. The pair didn’t bother to acknowledge it whether it was out of embarrassment or they were just lost in their own little world.

“You know,” Hua Cheng mumbled, but loud enough for the other to hear. “I really thought gege was going to dance with someone else.”

Xie Lian blinked in surprise, “What? No, San Lang. You were the only one I had in mind.”

Okay, Hua Cheng couldn’t handle how straightforward Xie Lian was tonight.

“Really?” he croaked out.

“En,” the senior readily agreed. “I wanted it to be a surprise but…”

“It’s okay, gege. I’m… really happy.”

Happy enough to combust or cry. Whichever could come first. Either way, Hua Cheng wanted to engrave this moment in his mind and perhaps add the song to his playlist to remind himself of this night whenever the song got the chance to play.

When the dance soon came to an end, usually Xie Lian would let him go. This time, he didn’t and held his hand firmly. Curious, Hua Cheng quietly watched as Xie Lian lifted his hand near his lips as he stared intently at the other. Hua Cheng made no move to pull his hand away, so Xie Lian continued and pressed his lips on the taller’s knuckles, a featherlight touch that took the wind out of Hua Cheng’s lungs.

Everyone cheered even if the teachers were clearing their throats, shifting their gazes down awkwardly. Mei Nianqing looked like he was about to explode for some unknown reason but the pair didn’t pay them any mind. They didn’t even let go of each other’s hands when Mei Nianqing was pointedly looking at them as he said his most robotic thanks of the night.

They were then both free to return to their tables but this time, Xie Lian joined Hua Cheng to the corner most table since he didn’t want to part with him.

Despite the crowd, as they walked back to the table, Hua Cheng leaned down to whisper in the senior’s ear. “Gege has always been special to me, too. My only one.”

Xie Lian almost tripped with his own feet at the other’s confession and while he sent a halfhearted glare at him, Hua Cheng grinned toothily back. There weren't any regrets.

With the attention not on them anymore since Mei Nianqing was speaking again, Xie Lian looked at him with a rare mischievous glint in his eye. “Say, San Lang. Did you enjoy dinner?”

“No,” Hua Cheng scrunched his nose. “It was terrible.”

“Would you like to escape here and eat some pizza somewhere else?”

Hua Cheng wanted to laugh. After such a whirlwind of emotions for the night, he didn’t expect for Xie Lian to rebel against the program. They were already by the double doors by then and Xie Lian was looking at him expectantly.

Hua Cheng nodded and was grinning devilishly, “I’m ready when you are, gege.”

They ran for their lives before Mei Nianqing could explode. A late night pizza joint trip was way better than a lousy prom. Well, anywhere was better as long they were together.