Work Text:
“Here is your order to go Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying chirps in peppiness as he hands the cup of tea to the handsome man across the counter. “Made especially for you.”
“Thank you Wei Ying,” Lan Zhan accepts with dignified hands.
Oh, the way Wei Ying wished he would handle him in the same soft, delicate manner. Although, he’s not against some aggressiveness either.
“Um Wei Ying?” the deep voice knocks him out of thought.
“Huh?” He realizes his grip was still on the drink, “Oops, sorry haha…” He retracts hesitantly.
Lan Zhan only nods. Bringing the cup upwards to his nose, he takes a sniff, then a sip. “Chamomile?”
“Yep! I figured it would be a nice change from the usual jasmine. Hopefully that’s okay with you, I know you are a structured person but this batch just came in this morning and I wanted you to be the first to try it.”
He instantly–mentally slaps himself for the last part. But the image fades away as Lan Zhan offers a dainty smile.
“I like it, all the more because Wei Ying prepared it.”
“Perfect then! Oh, that reminds me,” His hands reach for an additional drink and present it to Lan Zhan. “This is for Sizhui.”
And as if on cue, the handsome lad walks in through the door.
“Good morning Mr. Wei.” Sizhui says, taking a place beside his dad.
“Good morning little Lan.”
“Mr. Wei, I’m not little anymore.” Sizhui quietly announces, almost like a chastising whisper.
Wei Yig tilts his head back in laughter whilst crossing his arms against his chest. “Oh that’s right, today is the big day isn’t it?”
The father and son pair exchange glances before drawing back towards Wei Ying.
Smiling, Lan Sizhui beams, “Yes, today is the start of my senior year.”
“How exciting, congratulations!”
“Thank you.”
“Well, I gave it to your father already but I made you a ‘happy first day to your last day of high school, you can do it’ tea.”
A laugh escapes Sizhui, followed by a bright grin, “Thanks again Mr. Wei. I will drink it with that exact intent in mind.”
“That was the plan.”
“What about my father’s drink?”
Wei Ying freezes momentarily before meeting eyes with Lan Zhan’s who were already staring at him, well more like never left him.
“Umm,” he feigns a cough before proceeding. “It’s like any other tea he comes in for.”
“Not quite.” Lan Zhan rebuttals, “Wei Ying decided on chamomile today.”
“Oooh,” Sizhui mouths, “I wonder why the change today.”
“It was a new shipment I received, fresh from delivery.”
“Ah, so you wanted my father to be the first to try it out?”
“Exactly.”
“Because you wanted his opinion or was it because of something else?” There’s a hint of smug laced in Sizhui’s “question.”
“You–” Wei Ying’s brows rise from his audacious statement. “Don’t you have to be at school and doesn’t your dad have work to get to?”
The two Lans laugh in unison, “Yes we do but we couldn’t go without stopping by to see our favorite barista.” Sizhui adds, hoping to alleviate Wei Ying’s fallen attitude.
Like magic, Wei Ying returns to his cheerful demeanor. “You are becoming similar to your dad. Taciturn but when you do speak, you guys definitely know how to influence people.”
“He’s not only my father but my future professor.” Sizhui proudly affirms– attention focused on Lan Zhan.
His father gives him a tender pat on the head followed by a fond grin. “Let’s go, time for school and we need to let Wei Ying tend to his other customers.”
The three face towards the doorway which was starting to flood with the morning rush of people.
“Mn, goodbye Mr. Wei! We’ll see you tomorrow.” Sizhui waves with one hand while the other holds tight onto his drink.
“Bye Sizhui, bye Lan Zhan.”
Propping the door open, Lan Zhan gives one more glance, “See you Wei Ying.”
Ugh! The way the morning light hits Lan Zhan’s precious beautiful face, illuminating it; and the sound of his name being said in a juicy sweet manner, knocks the air out of Wei Ying. His knees buckle and shake at the same time, how is that even possible?
Once outside, the duo make their way to their car. After Sizhui slips into the passenger seat and buckles in, he inquires, “Father, do you think change is good?”
Lan Zhan answers while buckling himself in, “I believe change is adequate, depending on its effects. Why do you ask?” His eyes then focus forward as he shifts into gear, taking off.
“Oh you know, just wondering what else you’re going to let Mr. Wei change in your daily schedule.”
Lan Zhan’s hands tighten around the steering wheel, “What do you mean?”
“Father, you and Mr. Wei have been flirting since we’ve moved here. It’s obvious that you like him and he likes you.”
“Wei Ying sees me as nothing more than a friend.”
“I don’t think a ‘friend’ would brew a fresh batch of tea for you at 5:30 in the morning. Plus, you let him serve you chamomile. You normally drink jasmine and you love consistency. I’ve seen the way your eyes twitch when someone disrupts anything you've set. It happened recently with Uncle Xichen who misplaced your tea cup collection when he came to visit.”
“Sizhui,” Lan Zhan chides.
“A-Die,” Sizhui refutes gently, “Change is not bad and I’m glad it’s with Mr. Wei. Sure, he is very different and peculiar but he’s a great guy. I know you haven’t pursued a relationship because you worry it will create a rift in our’s, but it won’t. I’m growing up, I won’t require your protection in everything I do. I can start handling a few things on my own. You need to focus on yourself, I want you to be happy.”
Their car pulls up in front of Sizhui’s campus. Unbuckling, Lan Zhan turns to face his son.
“You’ll always be my son. I can’t help but be overprotective and care for you.” He runs his hand through Sizhui’s hair, tucking the excess strands into place. “You are maturing into a bright young man, I only want what is best for you.”
“A-Die,” Sizhui chuckles, “I also want what is best for you and I can see it’s with Mr. Wei.”
“Don’t say that just because he gives you free drinks.”
“Okay, that’s a plus, but what’s more important is I can tell he makes you happy.”
Lan Zhan’s golden embers turn soft, “What about you?”
“It would make me happy to see you going out with him.”
“No, I mean… will you be okay with the change? What if it becomes more than a daily occurrence and instead, stays permanent?
“Oh,” Sizhui feels his heart overflow with fondness, “Of course A-Die. More than anything, I would love for Mr. Wei to be a part of our lives.”
Smiling, Lan Zhan places a kiss atop of his head. “Have a great day at school.”
“I will,” Sizhui grabs his backpack from the back seat with one hand and grips his drink in the other. As he exits and before he closes the door, he says, “I love you A-Die, see you later.”
Then in a brisk movement, he hastily walks towards the school.
Lan Zhan admires from within the car. His heart swells at the sight of his son, who has now entered his first day of senior year.
*
It was 13 years ago when Sizhui came to be a part of his life. At the time, Lan Zhan was halfway through his undergraduate studies. He did not expect himself to become a father at such a young age.
He had been volunteering as an after school teacher at a primary school when he met Sizhui. Lan Wangji is not one to pry himself into anyone’s personal affairs, but Sizhui was one he could not avoid. It happened one afternoon when the boy came into his classroom. For one, he was wearing the same clothes as the day before, but the most prominent thing were his cheeks and forehead had been lined with scars and bruises.
“Sizhui,” Lan Zhan cajoles for the boy to sit near him. The child happily obliges, cheerful without a worry about his wounds, and takes place beside him.
“Good afternoon Laoshi,” he chirps.
Forcing a smile, Lan Zhan traces his fingers gently over the injuries. “What happened here?”
Instantly the peppy child reverts into a somber mood, as if he had been caught stealing candy. “I fell.” He lies, obviously.
“You fell?” Lan Zhan parrots.
“Yes,” Sizhui was avoiding him now. His little frame shook vigorously out of distress.
In an exasperated sigh, he scoops the boy onto his lap. His slender fingers glide through the boy’s hair. “Did it hurt?”
The child only shakes his head in reply.
He continues combing his hand against the rough curls the boy had acquired. “Sizhui, if someone is hurting you then you need to tell me.”
“I… I can’t.” He quietly mumbles. “They will get mad at me and I’ll be a bad boy. They always hit me when I’m a bad boy.”
The fingers come to a pause upon hearing Sizhui’s words. “Who hits you?”
“Laoshi,” Sizhui whispers. He turns around in Lan Zhan’s lap and scoots in close. “Laoshi, I’m scared. I don’t want to get in trouble, I don’t want to be a bad boy.” Tears escape him as he continues to tremble in fear.
Lan Zhan soothes him by patting his back in light circles, “You won’t get in trouble, I won’t let anyone hurt you.”
Sizhui rubs the tears away before looking up at Lan Zhan with newfound hope. “Promise?”
“Yes, I promise.”
The boy scans the classroom briefly to make sure it was clear of other children. Then he relays everything to Lan Zhan. He tells of how his father had started beating his mother and punishing him everytime he stood up for his mom. It deteriorated horribly to the point that his mother “left,” is what his dad told him. Lan Zhan listened with an impassive expression but inside he was hurting and terrified for the child. He had to do something. Reporting will only make matters worse and personal confrontation is bypassing protocol.
He had considered the multiple scenarios in my head for a few days until one day Sizhui did not attend school. One day led to two, then three, and then the end of the school week came. It was six in the evening when Lan Wangji departed for the boy’s residence.
It was already predictable on how the house condition would be, but nothing could have prepared him for what he would encounter on the inside. For one, the door was ajar and as he pushed the door open, a horrendous stench hit him. His face scrunched and on instinct, he covered his nose from the reeking smell. Lan Zhan maneuvered cautiously through the house, looking and searching for the boy.
“Sizhui,” he calls out.
Nothing, no sound.
“Sizhui,” he tries again, turning around the kitchen counter. His foot collides with a hard solid object. A foreboding sensation arouses in him as he looks down.
The sickening sight causes him to falter. His back hits the door of a closet and it cracks open revealing a small body. Lan Zhan whips his head in its direction when his peripherals catch sight of the figure.
“Sizhui!” He dives onto his knee as he pulls the boy into his embrace. His palms are overcome with a heating sensation. Sizhui was engulfed in cold sweat and a burning temperature. Using one hand, Lan Zhan hastily pulls out his phone. He dails Lan Xichen immediately, updating him on the situation. His brother notifies him that he will contact Nie Mingjue– chief police– who will come to inspect the scene. In the meantime, Lan Zhan should head to the hospital and Lan Xichen will meet him there.
Lan Zhan absentmindedly agrees, being too overwhelmed with Sizhui’s situation to recall what he said. He hurriedly runs to the car with the boy in his arms. Placing him in the back seat, Lan Zhan drives off to the hospital.
-
After the investigation, Nie Mingjue concluded that the father had taken not only the wife’s life, but also his own. In accordance with the doctor’s notes, they discovered Sizhui had been locked inside the closet for at least a day before the father died. He had contracted a high fever and was in a very fragile state.
Lan Wangji never departed Sizhui’s side when he was recovering. He took time off work to care for the boy and nursed him back to health. When Sizhui was well enough to discharge, Lan Wangji had taken the liberty of housing him. It wasn’t until his brother mentioned adopting Sizhui months later that he took the thought into consideration. He was only 20 at the time. Still finishing school while working, he didn’t have any resources or stability to raise a child. However, all his fears and concerns vanished one day when he and Sizhui were getting ready for bed.
Sizhui’s eyes never leave Lan Zhan. He watches the man with rounded eyes as he gets tucked into the sheets.
“Lan Laoshi,” he meekly utters.
“Hm?” Lan Zhan hums, looking at him after fluffing the pillows.
“Umm…” Sizhui fumbles with the edge of the blanket Lan Zhan had just fixed.
Lan Zhan raises his brow in confusion, “What is it Sizhui?”
“Chen Yu shixiong said that tomorrow is the Sports Festival.”
“Ah, yes I am aware.”
Sizhui’s expression had become very antsy. “And.. and… I want to run in the father-son race but Chen Yu shixiong said that I can’t because… I don’t have an A-Die.”
Lan Zhan’s chest constricts at the sight of the boy’s sullen face. He reaches out and pats the boy’s head.
“Was I a bad boy? Is that why mama and baba left me?” The child’s doe-eyes brim with tears. “I promise I won’t be a bad boy anymore.”
In an instant, Lan Zhan’s muscles move on their own and his arms are around Sizhui. He holds him tight. Moving his hands down, Lan Zhan gently rubs the boy’s back in circular motions. “You’re not a bad boy Sizhui.”
“Do they not love me anymore?” He looks up with waterd cheeks. Lan Zhan tenderly brings his left hand up to wipe them dry while his right hand remains soothing the boy.
“You are truly loveable. Do not think otherwise.” His tone stern, yet soft.
“Lan Laoshi, please don’t leave me like they did. I don’t want to be alone.”
“Sizhui,” he consoles, “I won’t ever abandon you, I promise. You won’t be alone anymore from now on. I will be here for you. I’ll be… your A-Die.”
At that, Sizhui perks up. His eyes full of hope as he clings onto Lan Zhan’s shirt. “Really? Lan Laoshi will be my A-Die?”
He had been in turmoil, thinking about how it would be possible to father a child at a young age and balancing all the components of his life. But all of that faded. His heart and mind became resolute in that moment.
“Mn.” Was all he manages to say.
“A-Die,” Sizhui grips him tightly. “A-Die.” He repeats in heartwarming satisfaction.
From that point on, Lan Wangji promised to be the best father he could be for Sizhui. No matter how hard, he would endeavor through the hardships. The duo grew over years together. Fighting through the sleepless nights, studying diligently, and grinding hours on end, Lan Zhan graduated top of his class and took the position as head professor of the Musical Department. All the while, he still managed to care for his growing son. He taught him the mannerisms his uncle instilled but was more lenient. He gave Sizhui the life he hardly had as a child. The boy laughed, explored, had fun, and made memories with him. Sizhui grew to be exactly like his father, scoring the best results in every class he attended. He never failed to make his father proud nor did he ever forget the gratitude he felt towards Lan Wangji.
*
“Sizhui?” Wei Ying asks as the youth enters the shop. He bears down at his wrist to read the time on his watch. Looking back up with an arched brow, he inquires, “What are you doing here so late?”
“Hi Mr. Wei,” Sizhui greets, walking near the counter. “A-Die will be coming home late tonight and I was hoping to pick up some tea for him.”
“Lan Zhan is staying late tonight?”
“Yes, the Musical Department is having a meeting and my father–being the head of the division– has to oversee the discussion.”
“I see, he’s a busy man. Nothing new there though. He’s always so preoccupied with work.” Grabbing the kettle to heat some water, he cranes his neck over the counter. “How was your first day?”
“It went well. Fairly easy and mainly focused on university applications.”
“Aw, you have nothing to worry about Sizhui. With your grades and great reputation, you will be accepted to any school you apply to.”
Sizhui bashfully declines his head, “Thank you Mr. Wei.”
“No need to thank me. You make your father very proud. His eyes have this glistening glow of fondness whenever he mentions your success.”
In a heartfelt chuckle, Sizhui blatantly admits, “He has the same look when he talks about you too.”
The confession causes Wei Ying to falter in his movements. His hands rumble against the cup he had reached for while his heart races unsteadily.
“Actually,” Sizhui continues, “It’s different and it’s not just his eyes. His lips curl in an amusing way I’ve never noticed before and his voice definitely alters when speaking to you.”
Wei Ying awkwardly laughs, “This kid.” His finger sways side to side, “It’s not nice to tease or say such nonsensical things to an old man like me. My heart can’t handle it.”
“Apologies Mr. Wei, but I’m merely stating the truth.”
“There’s no way Lan Zhan would like me in that way.”
Sizhui stifles a laugh, “I’m sure A-Die’s feelings for you are way past liking.”
That does it. Wei Ying has turned full face red.
“Sizhui–”
“Mr. Wei,” He interjects. “You don’t have to pretend you don’t feel the same way. I know my father and you have silently agreed to maintain your friendship, but anyone can tell you guys care for each other. I know you’re nervous and worried about being a great boyfriend for A-Die, let alone be a father for me too but you shouldn’t.”
Sizhui stares earnestly at Wei Ying. “I like you too. You’re the first person I’ve seen who can make my dad laugh or have any emotional reaction. Not only do you cherish him, you also care about me. It would make me super happy if you became a part of our life.”
Wei Ying stutters as his brain searches for words. “S-Sizhui,” He leans over the counter and grabs the young man’s hands. “Thank you. Aside from wanting to be someone worthy of Lan Zhan, I also want to be good enough for you.”
“You are more than good Mr. Wei. And it is me who should be thanking you.”
“Wait right there!” Wei Ying yells while pulling away. He hastily rounds the corner of the counter and darts towards Sizhui. The two collide in a tight embrace.
“Sorry, I just wanted to give you a hug.” Wei Ying murmurs.
The youth only clings on tighter, his lips displaying the brightest smile. They remain that way for a few minutes before the kettle whistles in an alarming pitch.
Wei Ying finds himself standing in the middle of the university courtyard, gripping onto the drink he had made for Lan Zhan. Sizhui had the smart idea of having him “deliver” it while he goes to “sleep over” at a friend’s house. Why did he agree? Irrelevant question, he knows why he did. He would accept any opportunity that allows him to see Lan Zhan, gosh he is hopeless.
Just then a white figure illuminates his vision. Like an angel in the night, Lan Zhan steps into the clearing, exiting the Musical Department building. He walks so elegantly Wei Ying’s brain haywires at the sight.
“Wei Ying?” Lan Zhan asks incredulously, approaching said man.
“Hi,” Wei Ying says bashfully.
“What are you doing here so late?”
“I… came to bring you some tea.” He presents the drink in a meek and hesitant manner.
Lan Zhan warily scans him before grabbing the cup. “Thank you.”
“Sizhui came by and he said you were going to be out late. Technically, it was his idea to bring you tea but he suggested I come instead since he’ll be going to meet a friend.”
“Mn,” Lan Zhan hums. He proceeds with his usual tea drinking routine, which is: taking a sniff of the steam, then latching a quick sip. After a brief taste test, his attention draws back to Wei Ying, “Oolong?”
“Yes! How is it?”
“Delightful and different.”
“Is different good?”
Lan Zhan blinks, recalling this morning’s conversation with Sizhui. “Yes, different is good.”
“I’m glad,” Wei Ying offers his cheeky grin. “Would you like to go for a walk around the campus?”
A nod is given in response and the two begin their stroll. They walk in comfortable silence with Wei Ying making small talk here and there as Lan Zhan enjoys his tea. It’s not the first time a scenario like this has occurred. They both have grown used to the company of each other and it’s nice. However, like Sizhui mentioned, maybe the two of them are suppressing and letting the relationship go unsaid.
Wei Ying comes to a halt, causing Lan Zhan to slow in his steps.
“Wei Ying?” he calls.
“Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying sweetly utters. Glancing at the white figure under the moonlit night makes his heart soar. How could he let this go and why is he so afraid?
“Is something wrong?”
“No, nothing is wrong. In fact, everything seems perfect.” Sucking in a deep breath, he announces, “Lan Zhan, you are great. I really like you.”
The cup that had been so securely held was released immediately upon Wei Ying’s confession. It hits the ground with its half drinken components splattering against the concrete.
“Lan Wangji, Lan Zhan, I want you to know that I really like you– no– I love you. Yes, I love you! I have for a long time now. You are a great man and an even more wonderful father. At first I was content with being friends but as our time together passed by, I realized I have grown selfish. I want to be more than friends, if you will allow it. I know that dating is the last thing on your mind at the moment and you do not have to give me a reply right now, but know that you are not alone.”
The two stand in temporary silence, both too stunned to proceed. Wei Ying’s hands became sweaty and his breath trembled.
“Wei Ying,” his name rolls off Lan Zhan’s honey infested voice. In two strides, the man was before him. “I have loved you from the moment I laid eyes on you.” There’s such sincerity in his words, Wei Ying’s knees quake.
“B-But I was a mess when we first met.”
“No, to me, you were perfect.”
“Seriously? Everything was out of place that day. I knocked over a shelf full of tea leaves and looked like a Christmas tree. From my head to my toes, I was covered in leaves.”
Slender fingers brush the fringes off his face. “Nothing is out of place with you.” Twisting his index finger around the loose hair, Lan Zhan whispers, “Wei Ying makes everything fall perfectly into place.”
A blush so bright and crimson eats Wei Ying’s face. His breath hitches and his mind becomes addled.
Lan Zhan seizes the opportunity to continue, “Forgive me for not conveying my heart sooner. When I had Sizhui, I did not think of having anyone else. I was worried he would feel abandoned and I could not afford to resurrect those dreadful memories so I chose not to pursue a relationship.”
Wei Ying throws himself against Lan Zhan, snaking his arms around the man’s broad back. “Don’t apologize, I understand. You would not be the Lan Zhan I know if you did not give up those things.” Drawing his attention upwards, he proceeds, “You truly are admirable.”
“I didn’t mean to make you wait so long.”
“You didn’t. I also had my concerns. I was afraid I would not be able to measure up and be someone worthy of you and Sizhui.”
“Wei Ying does not need to worry about such trivial thoughts. You are perfect and I’m sure Sizhui loves you as well.”
A delicate laugh escapes him, “He actually confessed to me first, you know?”
Lan Zhan’s brows crease from hearing this, “Did he now?”
“Yep. It was actually him who gave me the nudge I needed to convey my feelings. In other words, I got his approval and help.”
“That kid,” Lan Zhan chuckles as he leans in to place a kiss against Wei Ying’s forehead. “How did he manage to beat me to it?”
“Hmm, perhaps we can learn a thing or two from him. After all, he is growing up.”
“Mn,”
“Hey Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying murmurs, “There’s a new flavor I want you to try and get your opinion on.”
“What is it?”
With a mischievous grin, Wei Ying tip toes and presses his lips against Lan Zhan’s. The latter blinks a few times before closing his eyes, surrendering to the intoxicating flavor of Wei Ying. In a fluid movement, his arms encircle the former’s waist, bringing them closer. Wei Ying falls against the broad chest before him, deepening the kiss. He licks the bottom of Lan Zhan’s lips, causing them both to burrow further into each other’s mouth. They explore with tongues and search with hungry hands.
Panting as he pulls away, Wei Ying inquires with mirth, “So, how did it taste?”
“Different.”
“I’m hoping you’re amenable to the change.”
“A dangerous idea.” Lan Zhan says in a low growl.
“Oh? Why is that?”
He nips at Wei Ying’s bottom lip, “This is a taste I won’t ever get tired of. Is Wei Ying willing to satisfy my cravings?”
A glistening smile appears, “As much as you want.”
“And if I want it everyday?”
“Then I will give it to my Lan Zhan, everyday.”
*
“A-Die, Baba, what are you guys doing here?” Sizhui asks, his eyes scanning the surroundings.
“We couldn’t miss out on our baby’s big first day!” Wei Ying exclaims as he nuzzles his cheek against his son’s.
“Baba, people are looking.” Sizhui chides after escaping the hold.
“Aiyah, Lan Zhan, look at our bao bao. He’s already getting tired of me. Not wanting anymore kisses or love.”
His husband places an arm around his waist, “He’s just nervous.” Glancing back towards his son, Lan Zhan smiles, “Don’t worry, you’ll do great. I’ll be in the next building over if you need me.”
“I can manage A-Die.”
Wei Ying pats Lan Zhan’s shoulder, “See. I told you he doesn’t need us anymore. How cruel, my dear boy is growing up too fast.”
“Baba,” Sizhui chastises from his father’s growing voice. “I’m going to see you later for dinner. It’s not like I’m moving away.”
“Oh but you probably will soon in the blink of an eye!”
“A-Die,” Sizhui eyes Lan Zhan out of desperation.
Catching it, Lan Zhan kisses his groaning husband’s head. “Wei Ying, he’ll be fine– we’ll be fine.” Stealing a peck on the lips, he whispers, “You’re the one who is going to be late.”
“Ah, you’re right!” Reaching into the drink carrier his husband had been carrying with his free hand, he pulls out two warm teas. “One for my dear Lan Zhan and the other for my loveable Sizhui.”
Handing off each drink to its designated person, he says, “One is ‘have a great day’ and the other is ‘good luck on your first day of university,’ but both are made with love!”
“Thank you baba, I’ll see you and A-Die later.” Sizhui affirms as he hastily walks towards the campus buildings.
Both his fathers wave, watching their son leave.
“What flavor is it this time?” Lan Zhan asks as he leans in to get a whiff of the tea steam.
“Take a guess.”
“Jasmine?”
“Yep.”
“Why?” Lan Zhan’s forehead dips from confusion due to Wei Ying’s choice of simplicity.
His husband heaves a heavy sigh before answering, “Because everything is moving so fast, I feel the need to keep something consistent.”
“Is Wei Ying not happy?”
“No, I am. I’ve never been happier. I was able to marry the man of my heart, have a son, and be a part of a loving family; but a year has passed. Our Sizhui is entering his first year of university. Before I know it he’ll be graduating, married, starting a family of his own–”
Lan Zhan swiftly places a kiss on his cheek. “Wei Ying, it’s okay.”
“I know, I know. Change is good, it has brought me many great things and I wouldn’t be here with you if it weren’t for it. But sometimes… I wish time could stand still.” Wei Ying admits in a gloomy tone.
“My love,” Lan Zhan utters ever so softly, it tickles Wei Ying’s ears. “Time waits for no one unfortunately, but do not worry. Some things never change…” He brings Wei Ying’s palms against his chest, “This, I know won’t ever waver. My love for you is unchanging.”
“Aww, my dear Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying englufs his husband. “You always know what to say.”
Just then the sound of footsteps increases, drawing their attention away from each other and forwards.
“Sizhui?” They synchronously say.
Before any further words could be said, the young man tackles both of them into a compressed hug. “A-Die, Baba.”
The two fathers share a glance before comforting their son with smooth rubs along his back.
“What’s wrong?” Wei Ying questions worriedly.
“You guys are still here.”
“Of course. Did something happen?”
“Nothing bad, it’s just…” Sizhui gazes up at them. “I was walking across the bridge on the upper level when I saw you guys below and… and I couldn’t help but be overcome with emotions. I remember vaguely as a child, I would come to school alone. Then years later it was A-Die who never missed the chance to send me off and pick me up. And now… I have both A-Die and Baba.” Then he breaks out in tears, causing both of the men to gravitate closer in disconcertment.
“No no, I’m okay,” He reassured them. “These are happy tears. I get to see A-Die happy with Baba and looking back at you guys reminds me that I’m not alone. No matter how old I become and no matter where I go, A-Die and Baba will never leave me.”
Lan Zhan unconsciously draws a blinding smile on his lips while Wei Ying’s eyes brim with tears and he’s the first to pounce on the young man while crying.
“Silly child, we won’t ever leave you.”
A pair of sturdy arms surrounds the two in warmth. “We’ll always be here.”
“I know,” Sizhui mumbles from between his fathers. “Thank you.” Sparing one more glance at them, he beams.
“I love you guys.”
“And we love you,” asserts Wei Ying. His hand pats the young one’s head, “See you at dinner.”
“Mn,” With round eyes full of wonder and hope, he departs from his parents.
While walking away, Sizhui lips tug into one of the most glistening smiles he’s ever had. His heart is full. His family had grown and its love doubled over the year. Perhaps he was a bit presumptuous to have initiated so many things between his fathers but he doesn’t regret it. They are happy and he is beyond joyful. In his heart, he knows; they won’t ever leave him and he will never be alone.
In fact, years later down the line, his family only continues to blossom. He gains two more siblings: an adorable baby brother and loveable baby sister. The girl, being the youngest, was the most doted upon by her brothers and fathers. Sizhui could only continue to grow in happiness at the sight of his expanding family and its ever flowing love.