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“Aether! Wait up!” A familiar voice called from behind him, a voice way too familiar for his interests. The blonde boy didn’t bother to turn around to meet the ginger as he stopped in his tracks, knowing he most likely couldn’t get away from his sight now.
Aether didn’t have much aggression for Childe, but it felt like there was almost always something to be pissed at him about. Aether could only sigh as he suspected another ramble from yet another person asking him to do his dirty work—he really did not need more work toppled onto him right now, especially from this mass murderer.
“Hey, Childe!” Paimon greeted, swinging her floating body around to see a ginger jogging their way. Paimon didn’t have much beef with him, but Aether thinks that’s only because he makes up for most of his mistakes by taking them out for dinner, which is an apology accepted no matter the cause from her.
The Fatui harbinger panted as he caught up to them. Aether watched as he tried to catch his breath.
“Something you need, Childe?” Aether greeted(?).
“Hah—! Indeed. It's nice to see you both, by the way. I’ve recently been out of touch, haven't I.” The ginger sighed as his slowed his breaths, a big grin plastered his face. Suspicious , Aether thought.
Paimon spoke up, “Is there something on your mind? It must be important, no? Just how far did you venture to come find us??”
“Not too long, believe it or not, I've been working in the bank for a little while now actually. Since the Tsaritsa hasn’t given me a new mission yet, I've decided to hang around Liyue for a bit longer, and recently I've been—ah—uh... I've been... trying to spend more time with a certain someone,” The Fatui Harbinger looked away as he spoke, the faintest of blush covered his cheeks.
“—and uh, that’s part of the reason I've come to see you. Advice, I mean.”
Childe looked at them with intent as he waited for a reply, of any kind at this point. He obviously had no experience with love, and was hoping that he, Aether, would have some kind of experience with the subject.
“A certain someone? Advice? Do you mean like... confessing your love?!” Paimon blurted out. “Well, you’ve come to right person, Mr. Tartaglia! I’m an expert on romance.” Aether stared at Paimon with an unreadable face.
“Now first things first, who is it?! It all depends on who the person is... maybe they’d want a bouquet with fresh glaze lilies... or a heart shaped box full of yummy chocolates... Oooh! Or maybe, a romantic dance on a bed of flowers while the sun sets...” Paimon went on, clearly lost in her own thoughts.
Aether however, actually wanted to know who such person was, mostly to see how awkward it would be to watch Childe confess his love to a poor girl.
“Ah, right. Those are all... unique, ideas, however... I don’t—” Childe fumbled on his words as he tried to speak without being to forward.
He rubbed the back of his head shyly as he tried to put a sentence together. A deeper blush rose over his cheeks as he spoke, “what if... what if the person is Zhongli?”
Oh duh, Aether thought. Who else would Childe be thinking about?
Paimon, astounded, “HUH? Zhongli!? HIM? Oh brother... Paimon should’ve known.”
“Maybe you could use some more advice on your taste of men instead.” Aether said, shit-grinned.
Childe’s face flushed somehow an even deeper red across his cheeks, “WHAT?! There's nothing wrong with Zhongli! Have you seen his broad shoulders, and that jawline, hello?! I mean, c'mon, you’ve got to be blind to not find some kind of attractiveness in that man. Most people would froth on the spot at only a short glace from him! Not to mention his tight pants that wrap around his waist, along with his slender bod that fits around his waistline so pretty... and when it flows in the wind, ooooh— you can almost make out what’s underneath.”
Childe snapped out his lewd daydreams to only to be met with a now concerned Paimon and... Aether who looks like he’s about to wretch all over the floor.
“You know what, why not ask someone who knows Zhongli a little better, if you really want to... be with him, per-se.” Paimon suggested, wanting to hear no more of Childes weird fantasies.
Childe sighed, “Well, I'd love too, but I don’t know of anyone else close to Zhongli or anywhere near as close as I am with him. I'm not really... known around these parts, nor liked, and in which, I would probably like to keep it that way.” The Fatui Harbinger stood troubled.
“Someone else close to Zhongli? Hmm...” Aether hummed. He knew a lot of Adepti, most of them in fact. All though, did any of them know anything about love in the first place? Would they want someone to be parners with Zhongli in the first place? Would they allow it? Especially if such partner is a highly troublesome member of the Fatui... and on top of that, a Fatui Harbinger? Yikes. His chances for approval would be pretty low, but it’s starting to become obvious that Zhongli might feel some affection for the Harbinger in question.
But... if he were looking for advice on the almighty Rex Lapis, he might know someone.
Aether smirked, “I think I might know a guy.” Paimon snickered.
“Ah—Really!? That’s perfect, why don’t we meet at Liuli Pavilion tonight, I’ll treat you both along with your guest, Yeah?” Childe beamed with a grand smile on a face. He then giddily ran off past them, giving no time for them to respond.
Paimon looked towards Aether, “Well, looks like we’ve got a date tonight.”
“This so-called-date is going to turn into a shit-show really fast if we’ve both got the same person in mind, whom will be giving the advice I mean.” Aether smirked back at the floaty fairy.
“And whom might you be thinking of?” Paimon smirked back.
“Oh, I don’t know... maybe just, the almighty Demon Conqueror, the Vigilante Yaksha, the one and only protector of Liyue, Adeptus Xia--”
A sharp sound rang through their ears as none other than the vigilante Yaksha himself stood in front of them; arms crossed in an unpleasant manner. “You called?” The short Adeptus man spoke.
“Hey, Xiao!” Paimon waved. “We were wondering if maybe you were free tonight? We have a friend in need of help and thought you would be the best help in this situation.”
Xiao looked at the floating fairy in clear worry. I mean, Xiao out of all people wouldn’t be anyone's first choice for advice in the first place, (no offense, Xiao). Both Aether and Paimon knew that Xiao wouldn’t be much too any help in this scandal at all, and that was the best part about it.
“You want... my help? With a friend? You do know I'm no good in these kinds of situations, right?” Xiao pondered, clearly confused to why they would ask him out of all people on such a topic.
“It’s a Rex Lapis thing. They want... in-depth help, per-se,” The blonde boy spoke, hoping that would peak the Adeptus’ interests a little more.
“A Rex Lapis thing? Could they not look through books about him instead? I find it odd how you ask me of all people about the topic.”
“Well, uh, you were the first person that came to mind is all, we’d really appreciate the help.” Aether teased, trying to get on his good side.
“Hm. I see.” Xiao stood with his head down as he thought. Xiao was obviously not a people-person, No matter the situation. Sure, he was nice to be around, but he rarely spoke. Rarely even appeared. It’s harder than one would think the convince someone like him.
A horrible, long ten seconds passed when Aether spoke up, “We’ll let you bring a friend? Maybe a certain bard, perhaps?” He prodded. Childe would have to pay a little extra from an unexpected guest but who cares, more advice for him anyway.
The Yaksha perked up, then quickly looked away. “Hmph, perhaps.” He mumbled.
“Yes! Sweet!” Paimon cheered. “Come with us to Liuli Pavilion tonight, the person in need of advice said he would treat us!”
“I see. I will... contact Lord Barbatos and offer to... take him with us.” Xiao mumbled once more. “Then I will meet you at dusk.” and he was gone in a flash.
/
The sun was setting as Paimon and Aether arrived at the doors of Liuli Pavilion, waiting for two Anemo holders to arrive before they stepped inside.
“Shouldn't be too long until Xiao and Venti arrive, right? Childe is probably waiting inside by now.” Paimon spoke.
“Probably gripping on his seat for dear life from anticipation, that is.” Aether muttered.
In the blink of an eye, two short men appeared behind them. Venti held onto one of Xiao’s shoulders as he let out a sigh he seemed to be holding in. The little man perked up, “Ha-ha! Well, if it isn’t Aether and the floating toddler fairy! Long time no see, friends.” Venti latched off from Xiao and he walked up the restaurant steps with Xiao following slowly behind him.
“What did you call me, bard!?” Paimon yelled.
“Hello, Venti. Glad you came.” Aether greeted.
“Why, of course! I wouldn’t miss a chance to hang out with you, beloveds.” Venti grinned, “I was shocked when Xiao asked me if I wanted to have dinner with him. He’s a total stone on the outside, but on the inside he’s as soft as a teddy bear.” Venti teased, turning to meet Xiao’s expression.
Xiao flushed. “Huh? What? D-dinner? When did—” Xiao’s flustered words were cut off by Venti, who apparently had an appetite. “Speaking of dinner, I'm starving. Why don’t we get in this thing as start eating. I’m excited to see what your desperate-friend-in-need wants as well.” The bard said as he swung open the restaurant doors. Attempted too, actually. Push, not pull. said the floating toddler fairy.
/
“Ah, Comrade! You’ve arrived! With your friends as well, I see.” Childe greeted them as he stood from his seat, their waiter escorting them to the table.
Childe had greeted Xiao first, being the one he presumed was trying to help his little scandal. The rest took their seats when the waiter asked Aether if he wanted a baby booster. He sparked a confused face as the waiter tilted her head to Paimon. A muffled no, thank you could be heard from the coughs and laughs heard from the blonde. Venti chuckled in delight as he overheard the conversation. Paimon took her seat in anger as she sat. Might actually needing that baby booster, she decided to float in her seat instead.
Xiao happened to notice that their so-called-friend was a member of the Fatui, a familiar one in fact. Which made him conjecture a bit. Knowing that the Fatui had plots against the Archons, it was only natural he speculated him.
“I see you brought two friends.” Childe sat down once more, speaking to Aether directly. “Ah, yes. Xiao here wouldn’t come unless—” The blonde was cut off as Xiao suddenly piped up. “Because he wanted to come. He was in town, and... asked if he could come.” Xiao spoke. Venti only nodded with a shit-eating grin plastered on his face.
Venti piped up as he asked the only question needed in this situation, “So, what exactly do you need advice about, dear friend-in-need?” He said as he ordered a tall glass of white wine right after.
“Oh, did Aether not tell you? Well, it’s kind of relationship advice. Except, minus the relationship and more of a... how to confess your feelings, advice.” Childe said, as he ordered his meal.
“Relationship advice? Hmmm... guess you got me there. It usually depends on the person, no? Seems I don’t think I’d know in this department. Xiao here must know a thing or two though.” Venti nudged.
Xiao glared, a tint of rose speckled across his cheeks. “Who is the person?” Xiao asked. Now even more confused to why Aether would ask him for this kind of advice. Rex Lapis? He pondered, trying to make sense of any of the situation from what intel Aether had given him. Unless...
“Well, when I asked for advice,” Came running for advice, Aether muttered. “... Both he and Paimon said they knew someone, and ended up asking you, I presume.” Childe went on. Aether nudged Paimon in anticipation.
“So, you must know Zhongli-Xiangsheng, yes?”
Venti spat out his drink.
“Zhongl—” “ ZHONGLI?? " Venti cut the Adeptus off from a choked laugh, now bursting into tears from laughter. “You want— (wheeze) Zhongli—ok, phew, give me a minute.” The bard choked on his drink once more. “I thought that old grump was incapable of showing any emotions, how did you even—” Venti was suddenly cut off by Xiao, now mildly disturbed. He finally added up the situation, and he didn’t like it. “What do you want with him? He is not currently looking for a partner.” Xiao blurted.
Childe looked at the Adeptus, clearly speculated. “Beg pardon?” The ginger spoke, a little intimidated. Why would he know that? What would he know Zhongli’s love life anyway?
“Mora—Ahem... Zhongli is currently not looking for love. And I'm sure if he was, it would not be you he would want to partner with. A Fatui Harbinger does not belong in the mists of someone as valuable as Zhongli in the first place.” Xiao spoke sturdy. It is true that a Fatui Harbinger dating a former Archon was not a good idea, and he made sure he got his words across to the Harbinger. But who was he to interject in Zhongli’s love life?
“Woah, calm down, almighty Adeptus. A job doesn’t make up for someone’s feelings. Love should get in the way of no one. Personally, I think you two would look quite cute together.” Venti said, absolutely downing his drink.
“See, the bard gets it. And I think Zhongli-Xiangsheng seems to like my company quite a lot as well.” Childe fired back.
“It is true... They do get along really well.” Paimon said, “A bit too well...” Aether muttered loud enough for them to hear. “What’s so wrong with Zhongli dating someone, anyway?” Paimon questioned Xiao.
Xiao looked away and grumbled. “...Zhongli, he—uh...” Xiao muttered, no words formed from his mouth as he tried to speak. “Aww, his protective senses are kicking in.” Venti rubbed Xiao’s back.
"More like his daddy issues are kicking in...” Aether muttered once more.
It is true though, both Venti and Aether know that Xiao is very protective of Zhongli. He states himself that he would forgive no one that tries to hurt him. It was only natural to concern for his life and well-being in this state. Even when he is in his mere mortal form, he always must protect his master, no matter the circumstances.
“It’s not... It’s just, he isn’t—he—” Xiao stuttered more as he kept trying to form sentences but failing. It was hard to watch Xiao fail to protect Zhongli from a wolf in sheep's clothing. Aether believes Childe truly had feelings for Zhongli, and he wouldn’t hurt Zhongli. Even if he tried to hurt him, physically speaking, Childe was no match for him anyway. Emotionally, it was a different story. But he’s not that type of person, right?
“I think you’re still stuck in the past, Xiao.” Venti spoke up, “Zhongli has moved past his old lovers, and it would be nice for the old man to get his step in the game again. He is a wise man, and I'm sure he would like someone to care for again, no?” Venti said as his sipped from his second glass.
Xiao stared at nothing, letting his mind ponder, when Childe spoke up, “Zhongli-Xiangsheng has made me feel something I’ve never felt before. At first, I didn’t want to believe myself for liking someone I wasn’t supposed to. But you can’t control your feelings, that’s the shitty part. I finally accepted that I had feelings for him not too long ago. It’s like I couldn’t stop thinking about him, y’know? He felt like an equal too me, and I've cherished every moment I've spent with him. I didn’t want to accept it, but it’s true that he makes me feel a way I didn’t know I could feel, I’m in love with h—” Childe spoke his thoughts, only to be interrupted by a disgusted Xiao. “Alright, I get it, jeez.” he said shyly, still trying to work his thoughts out.
Xiao pondered once more; Dead silence flew through the room as Xiao thought, other than Venti still drowning in his drink of course. “Do you really feel such emotions towards him?” Xiao finally spoke, looking towards the Harbinger with a dull yet weary face, waiting for an answer. It felt like he needed to get permission to ask Zhongli out at this point.
“My only answer is yes. I would quit everything and leave everyone behind for him, if that is really what it’s come too.” Childe spoke whole-heartedly, talking in straightforward eye contact with the Yaksha.
“Damn. Dedication.” Venti muttered, ordering his third glass.
Xiao sighed. “I wish my master only happiness, and if that’s what you’re truly promising him, then I'll let you be.” the Yaksha spoke once more. “But if you ever dare to lay a finger on him, know that you will never see the light of day again. I mean it, Harbinger.” He made sure he was being direct, not wanting to break his sturdy profile as well.
“ Nice save. ” Venti hiccupped, clearly drowned in alcohol. “The food hasn’t even come yet! How are you already boozed out of your mind!?” Paimon looked over to Venti, whose face was peachy and obviously drunk. “Anything is possible with the power of good wine and a few shots of alcohol, dear friend.” The bard blabbered.
“Okay, truly though, how do I tell him about my feelings? He’s so oblivious of all my hints,” Childe tried to get the conversation back on topic, hoping for some clearance and what he actually paid them to be here for.
“You could say that again, he has a really hard time picking up on your teases.” Paimon said. Venti giggled, expecting nothing more from the fellow Archon. “You gotta tell him straight up, it’s literally the only way. That man is so fucking oblivious you could buy him the most expensive diamond ring in the world, and he’d think it was a friendship memento.” Venti said, sipping out his now empty glass.
“Believe me, I've tried. I left a note on his desk for valentine's day with a box of chocolates and flowers and he told me, ‘Our friendship truly means a lot to me. ’”
“Oh, my fucking god.”
“I too think you should go for the direct approach; He is oblivious to love at most times.” Xiao spoke up, a little bit embarrassed.
“Direct approach... Okay.” Childe took notes in his mind, trying to think of ways that were basically screaming I want to marry you.
“But make it romantic as well, just to really get the message across. Maybe take him out for dinner—” “I do that every other night of the week.” Venti was interrupted by Childe, just really trying to get the message across that it was literally almost impossible to make this man see that maybe he liked him more than just a friend.
“Take him out to dinner, but on a balcony, in the sunset. It may be cheesy, but it always works.” Aether said. Paimon nodded along, loving the romantic setting she was hoping for. “And make sure he gets the memo this time, yeah?” The blonde spoke up once more, trying to finish the conversation while their food arrived.
“Gotcha. Thanks for the advice, really.” Childe grinned, because he really did appreciate the advice, and was glad his friends were willing to help him on his troublesome crush experience. And he was more surprised by the fact that Xiao, out of all people, who was doted and sworn his life on protecting Zhongli let him even go near him, let alone date him. So yeah, he was really grateful. Although, he may want to keep a tab on that thought... because Xiao is probably going to be watching his every move from now on.
They finished their meals in which Childe promised he’d pay for, the bill costing a little more than he had anticipated thanks to a certain bard who drank a little too much, it wasn’t normal for the bard to drink all he wanted (mostly because his pockets were empty), so he happily took the opportunity. Not that the rich Harbinger minded.
They all parted their ways, with Childe once again thanking Aether and his friends. Xiao ended up taking Venti back to Mondstadt, having to deal with a drunk Venti the way there—as well as having a troublesome parting, ending with Venti babying him enough to help him fall asleep. Which is reality, Xiao didn’t mind in the slightest. He adored every time he got to spend around Venti, in which... were usually rare occasions. So yeah, maybe he did enjoy tonight.
/
A few days later, (after some miraculous planning) … he finally decided to ask Zhongli to have dinner with him. Picking a restaurant they hadn’t usually gone too. A fancy one at that.
“Ah, Childe. Nice to see you. What brings you to Wangsheng Parlor?” A familiar voice spoke as he greeted the Fatui Harbinger. Zhongli was running the front office at this time, which ended up with a nervous and disoriented Childe greeting him. The ginger was a bit skeptical about asking him out— he wasn’t even really asking him out though, right? They go out to dinner every other day together, just the two of them. It’s not anything different, what’s with the sudden panic??
“Good evening, Xiangsheng!” Childe tried to cool himself down from his own thoughts as he walked up to where Zhongli was sitting. “I was wondering if we could go somewhere different tonight-- For dinner I mean. If you’re free. Maybe. I had a place in mind to where I wanted to bring you.” He said with a tint of red on his freckled cheeks. He obviously had no practice talking to anyone in a romantic gesture, nor did he know what to do if Zhongli passed down his offer. He was a mess for something he did almost every week.
“Somewhere different?”
“Mhm. I felt like treating you is all.” The ginger spoke with a wide smile. Maybe Zhongli was catching up on what he meant? He doubts it, but still hopes he’s not too obvious.
Zhongli smiled. “Treating me? How kind of you. Where is this so-called place where we’d be dining?” Not that he didn’t know every place around Liyue.
“A cute restaurant I saw not too far from here, a bit more expensive, but has a food dialogue I'm sure the both of us would enjoy. I’m sure you’ve seen it— though I don’t remember the name, I was hoping you would accompany me?” Childe grinned, pleading for an answer at this point.
“Why, of course. Tonight as well, yes? Say... I don’t have any direction to this unnamed place, you wouldn’t mind walking me to said restaurant, no?
“Please—! Ahem. I mean. of course, yes.”
Zhongli blinked. “Hm, very well then. I expect to see you back here before the sun sets. Now run along, I expect good clothing attire, Mr. Tartaglia.” Zhongli said, shooing Childe away—a faint smirk on his face.
“Ah—right. Yes, I will—yeah. Okay. Bye.” As he scrambled out the Parlors doors, not expecting Zhongli to finish the conversation so swiftly. He ran back to house with a crappy grin on plastered on his face.
Zhongli’s smug grin suddenly disappeared as a door slammed open from the other side of the room.
“Zhongli, you must quit teasing the poor boy. You both are so obvious... it’s hard for even me to watch.” The funeral Director spoke from the now probably broken door. Clearly, she had overheard their little conversation.
“Teasing? I would do no such thing.” The consultant said, stone faced. It was hard to decipher if Zhongli was lying, usually because he never did—so the words were left questioned by Hu Tao. Was he really that unaware? Aiya, Zhongli.
“Fine then, have fun on your date, I guess. But I better see some movement by the end of the night, you hear?” Hu Tao exclaimed, leaving the room in annoyance. Hu Tao wasn’t a big fan of romance herself, and Zhongli’s odd love life wasn’t something she needed to conclude it with.
Zhongli only laughed to himself.
/
The time had come to re-meet with Zhongli, and Childe was nervous. When he said nervous, he meant it. Maybe he should have gotten him a bouquet of roses like Paimon had suggested before, or maybe a gift along with it. Ugh... he pondered, but there was no more time for pondering. He walked out his door to meet with his date. Yes, date. He was admitting to it.
Walking up to the Parlor to meet said date , he took a deep breath before opening the doors, trying to compel some of his sanity. The ginger was wearing a white suit with hints of red coated into the fabric, something similar to what a war general would wear, but with some of his hair slicked back and gold ruffles along the coat, along with a pair of white gloves and a bare ring finger. When Zhongli told him to wear something nice, he didn’t take it lightly. The diligence of a rich man.
Childe opened the doors to be met with a shorter girl in pig tails messing with the front of his dates uniform, trying to fix something he presumed.
Hu Tao’s eyes caught the man opening the door, “ Aiya, Zhongli, your date has arrived.” she grinned. Zhongli looked over to be met with Childe’s blue eyes, which stared right back him, looking a little nervous.
Zhongli had a high bun raffled in his hair along with a gold clip. He wore a black suit, along with a black undershirt. A coat hung from his shoulders as Childe recognized just who bought that coat for him. His red eyeliner pronounced his look along with some red hints in the coat as well, along with a pair of black gloves.
“You... ah.” Childe attempted to speak. “You look, wonderful. Xiangsheng.” He tried to hide the blush on his cheeks but failed miserably.
Zhongli chuckled. “I could say the same for you as well. Most of the things I'm wearing were gifted to me from you anyway. Thank you.” The consultant said, grinning. “Shall we get going?” He spoke as he tightened the gloves around his wrists.
“Please. I cannot bare to stand another second around you two love-birds.” Hu Tao exclaimed, making a weary face at her consultant. He could only make a confused face back. “Now shoo,” she shoved Zhongli’s back a tad, trying to memo them out already. It was a full-time job being a part of Zhongli’s love life. Aiya... it’s hard to get a break around here. Hu Tao patted herself on the back.
Childe and Zhongli were quickly guided outside by the annoyed Funeral Director, now both their backs facing the doors. They awkwardly stood in silence for a moment. A horrible silence, for what felt like much longer than a moment.
“Ahem—apologies about her... she seems to be annoyed about our... connection.” Zhongli broke the awkward silence, looking towards the ground. Maybe it was just the sun setting, but Childe felt like he could see the slightest amount of blush on his cheeks.
“O-oh, no, it’s alright.” Childe stuttered, smiling awkwardly. “Why don’t we get going, the sun will surely set soon, and I don’t want to lose my direction.” He tried to play off with a chuckle. Zhongli hummed.
They walked through town together, seemingly closer together than Childe would’ve expected.
As they walked through Liyue Parlor, Childe noticed the amount of stares they had been getting. Not that he minded it, really. Being seen with the infamous all-knowledgeable Zhongli didn’t sound so bad, not so bad at all. He smiled to himself thinking about the possibly jealous people wondering what Mr. Zhongli could be doing with the likes of a dangerous Fatui Harbinger. They did look great as well, after all. He couldn’t stop smiling.
They made their way up to the higher parts of the buildings in the parlor, ending up in front of a high fashioned restaurant. As they made their way in, he noticed the new stares they were getting.
“Table for two please.” Childe said to the woman up front. Childe felt even more powerful having those words come out of his mouth. “Sure thing, right this way.” The woman seeming to have got the memo, lead them to an outside table, right where the sun was visible, parted in between their seats.
This is going better than Childe had expected... he couldn’t mess up now. He was going to tell him, going to express the one thing that he’s been itching for him to understand.
As they sat down and ordered their drinks, Zhongli spoke up. “Thank you for treating me tonight, Childe. I find your company warming.” The brunette grinned.
Childe's mind scattered. Warming , huh. His cheeks grew rosy, as he let out a light giggle. “I’m glad. My only goal is to satisfy your needs.” The ginger spoke without thinking, blushing even deeper. Zhongli looked taken back,
“Satisfy my needs? Please, Childe. You’re too generous. I feel bad using you at most times for my own personal desires.” Zhongli frowned. “I want to pay you back in some way but... I truly do not live in an expense as worthy as yours.” He went on. Of course, Zhongli feels bad for using Childe for his own needs most of the time, using him like a wallet and nothing more. He’s thought of ways to repay him, but nothing as expensive as what the Harbinger has given to him could make up for his bill. Zhongli sighed.
Childe then clasped the Constant’s hands with his own, looking straight towards him. Zhongli’s eyes meeting back up with his. “Zhongli, there is no need. Your presence is truly enough.” Childe said as he gave a warm smile to the brunette, who was now, ah—blushing. A clear red speckled on his cheeks. Childe’s heart skipped a beat, having accomplished making the consultant actually blush.
Somewhere—he couldn’t tell where, but somewhere, he could hear the faintest sound of Xiao screaming in repugnance.
Once their drinks came, they ordered their meals. Childe thought of a ways to tell him Zhongli, he didn’t want to make it seem out of the blue or ruin the atmosphere.
“I recently met one of your Yaksha’s,” Childe said, trying to start a conversation. “He’s a bit skeptical of me, but he seems like has a nice side to him somewhere.
“You mean Xiao? How unexpected. I would have thought he’d ripped you up to pieces by now.” Zhongli said in a calm manner. “I wanted to introduce you to him myself one day, what a shame. I’m glad you got along, hopefully.” Zhongli stated.
“Ha-ha, yeah... Aether introduced me to him. Along with one of his other friends, a bard from Mondstadt.”
“A bard? From Mondstadt? Oh... would you happen to recall his name?” Zhongli prodded, hoping it wasn’t the bard he was thinking of.
“Mmm... something like Bonti... No, Benti. Mm, neither of those sound right. Well, he wore a green cap and sure could hold a lot of alcohol for such a small body; sure put a number on my bill.” Said the ginger.
It was definitely the bard he was thinking of. “Oh, gosh. I’m sorry about that, I do in fact know who you’re describing. He probably said some things about me too, no?” Zhongli spoke in worry. That bard has always been a nuisance... he couldn’t imagine of what he could have told Childe. He shivered.
“Not too much.” Childe chuckled; Zhongli only sighed.
They went on to talk about sweet nothings, only enjoying each other's presence as they waited for their food. Childe did truly enjoy Zhongli’s presence; he enjoyed everything about him. The way he would ramble on about something so in-depth Childe would forget about what he was even talking about in the first place... and the way he would always smile in relief when he saw Childe come back from a mission, happy to see he was okay. He loved his atmosphere, all of it. He didn’t know how but he made him feel a feeling of warmth. The feeling was mutual, a feeling of comfort when they were around each other.
He had to tell him, he had too.
As their meals arrived, Childe listened to Zhongli talk about whatever was on his mind, just like always. He took in every detail and every second of it. Blushing like an idiot in the process, probably.
“I can’t thank you enough, Childe. Once again, you do not fail to put a smile on my face.” Zhongli said as he wiped his mouth with a serviette.
“Please, it’s my pleasure.” The Harbinger persuaded. “I’m glad you came with me tonight, truly. Every moment I get to spend with you is monumental to me.” He tried testing the waters to see where this went. He wanted to get it out so he could kiss Zhongli already.
“Childe... Ah. I’m glad.” Zhongli smiled sincerely, blush rising over his cheeks once more. He really was cute for a six-thousand-year-old archon.
“I... I've been meaning to tell you something, Xiangsheng,” Childe’s heart swelled— just say it already damn it.
Zhongli paused.
“Zhongli... whenever I'm around you, my heart aches. I feel... close to you like I've never felt with anyone else before.” Childe tried to speak, his chest thumping with eagerness.
“I...” he tempted.
“... I believe I've fallen for you, Xiangsheng.”
A clear rose-colored blush grew across the gingers freckled cheeks. He stared at the table, too afraid to make eye-contact now. He waited for a response, of any kind. Please speak.
“Childe... you—…" Zhongli was cut off my himself, still trying to decipher what Childe said. He only sighed.
The consultant grasped the Harbinger’s hands, intertwining their fingers.
“I...” Zhongli tried to work something up, anything.
“ I’m sorry, Childe,” The consultant tried speaking.
Childe’s heart dropped.
“You... too, make me feel a way I haven’t felt in... so many millennia—but,” Zhongli tried to speak, tried to get through this situation without ruining what they have, without making Childe want to forget about everything entirely. It’s been so long since Zhongli has been stuck in a situation like this.
“I’m scared, Childe.” He tightened the grip on his hands.
“I’m scared of what might come to us—what might come to you.”
Childe concernedly looked up, only to be met with a devastated Zhongli. He looked utterly dejected, still trying to make some peace of the situation.
“I want to be with you, Childe. I want to be around you every day, and cherish the precious moments I get to spend with you, but... I’m scared.” He went on.
“Our lives... are completely different, and I feel like one day... I’d lose you too soon.” Zhongli spoke sorrow. “Our days... your days ... are numbered. And...”
Zhongli tried to stay composed, almost tearing up. He hated these kinds of situations; the feeling of having to tell a mortal that one day you would have to watch them pass as he would stay alive in well-being.
Childe unraveled one of his hands and took the consultants cheeks in it. Zhongli closed his eyes as he leaned against it.
“Zhongli... please don’t worry about such things. I know that we don’t live the same lives, and that I do have a dangerous job, and have a role to play in the Tsarita’s hands, but... I don’t care about those things. I would cut all my ties to spend my life with you, Xiangsheng. Every moment I spend with you is monumental to me, remember? And I want to spend every last moment with you.” Childe tried to ease him, caressing his face. All Childe said was spoken from the heart, and Zhongli took it all in.
“But... Childe, you—”
“Zhongli.”
He couldn’t fight back. Deep down in his heart, he knows what the outcome will be for them, he knows he would end up having to face what he has already faced too many times before.
But doesn’t want to give up just yet. If what Childe said is true, then... maybe, he could give it a chance. For their sake.
Zhongli leaned back into Childe's palm, pondering, thinking—of a way to accept his request. Childe let him take his time.
He opened his half-lidded eyes, staring towards nothing. Maybe they could work out... maybe all's well that ends well.
Just... maybe.
“... Maybe—”
“Yes?”
Zhongli looked at Childe, who was desperate for an answer at this point.
Zhongli took another glance. Looking at Childe’s face. His longing face. The face he wanted to spend the rest of his time together with. Zhongli tried to ignore the feeling at first, he didn’t want to start the same familiar feeling again. He couldn’t make it go away, no matter how hard he tried. No matter how hard he ignored Childe, no matter how hardly he tried to convince himself he was using him for his money only, no matter how he used him only a mere pawn in his story. He always came back to the same dreaded feeling,
Love.
Zhongli sighed. Maybe he was acting immature, maybe love wasn’t such a big of a deal. Maybe he could give it a shot once more.
“Enough worrying about the future, focus on the present. Spend your time with him until the day comes.” Zhongli was then reminded of the Goddess of Dust’s words, and decided it was enough convincing for him.
Zhongli took Childe's hand he had been caressed by and stared.
“I want to give it a try.” He spoke.
Childe beamed; a wide grin plastered over his face in excitement.
Without thinking, the ginger took both of Zhongli’s hands and grasped them, leaning forward over the table, he pecked him on the cheek. Then sat right back down with a wide grin on his face.
Zhongli stared in shock.
“Ah—sorry... moving too fast?” Childe blushed.
Zhongli snickered, then started giggling. Blushing and laughing like he didn’t care who saw him.
Childe quickly caught on and chuckled to himself in embarrassment. He was happy though; he was happy that Zhongli was happy. He watched in awe as Zhongli giggled to himself. He loved seeing him happy, loved seeing him express care towards to him. He truly was wrapped over him, huh.
/
As Childe paid the bill, they made their way back outside to the front doors, Childe had insisted to let Zhongli stay the night, and who was he to say no?
As they made their way back, (only a few seconds in to be precise), they encountered a group of shorter boys, including a small floating child... oh, a familiar small floating child.
The small floating child quickly turned around to see both Childe and Zhongli walking their way. In tears, she whaled, motioning the rest of the group.
“Y-y-you guys...! I'm so happy you b-both worked it out!” Aether patted her back as she whaled even louder.
“Aahaaaah—!! Finally got your step back in the game, huh? About time, old man.” The bard with a familiar green cap spoke up, seeming too also be there as well.
“You.” Zhongli said, obviously not very delighted by his presence. Childe snickered to himself as he rubbed his now lover’s back.
“It’s nice to see you all, how did you know we were here?” Childe questioned, seemly noticed that their timing was a little suspicious.
“Well... only good friends look out for their buddies, and we just wanted to prove ourselves.” Venti blabbered, “And Xiao came just in case you tried to do anything... ugly. You should’ve seen him when you attempted to kiss Zhongli, almost had to hold him back. Good try, by the way—maybe a little bit more mouth to mouth next time though.”
“You—you watched us!? The entire thing!?” Childe exclaimed, obviously disturbed. Because like... ew. But honestly, what was he expecting.
“It was his idea,” Aether chimed in, basically caressing Paimon like a baby, trying to get her to stop bawling her eyes out.
“ We, just wanted to congratulate you. You and your little... messy romance story—” Venti was cut off by Zhongli proceeding to leave the premises, with Childe awkwardly following along. “Hey! Not even a thank you!? Damn, I should be getting paid for this, you know.” Venti blurted out, talking to what seems to be no one now.
“We did our best, and I'm sure their happy now. Props to you, bard.” Aether said, giving him some acknowledgment.
“So can we go home now? I want to baptize my eyes with battery acid.” Xiao, who has been silent the whole time, finally spoke. “You could say that again.” Aether said, now lulling Paimon to... sleep?
“As long as you’ll take me with you. Please.” Venti said, having nowhere to go and wanting someone to take him home.
“Fine, then.” Xiao replied, “We’ll be heading back now, thanks for, uh... thank you for joining us.” Xiao said to Aether, hoping to go home already.
“Thank you , for joining us . We’ll be heading back as well now, so safe travels, other... lovebirds.” Aether muffled the last part, and before Xiao could respond, Venti hopped right into his arms. “Let’s blow this joint, lover boy.” The bard said.
/
And not too long after that, they all went home.
You could say the night was a success from both sides of the story. Later that same night Zhongli gave Childe a second try on that kiss and ended up springing into something a little bit more heated than what was intended... so long to “ taking it slow ”.
Zhongli wondered. Maybe she would be proud. Maybe she was looking down from the stars above, congratulating him for finally reaching out—for finally coming to accept that it’s just the way life works, and everything and every person, mortal or immortal, must come to accept change. Zhongli hoped that she was proud, hoped that she could see him growing, and starting a new. And just maybe, she would be proud of who he’s become.
Just maybe.