Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“No Mrs. Jiang, if we amputate your husband’s leg that doesn't mean your future child will be born with no leg.”

“Are you absolutely sure though?”

“Yes Mrs. Jiang, I can promise you that won’t happen.”

“Okay, you’re the doctor.”

“Mrs. Jiang?”

“Yes?”

“Your husband doesn’t need to have his leg amputated, he just needs to wear some compression socks and remember to take his blood thinners.”

“Oh? And then his leg will be less ugly?”

“Um, yes Mrs. Jiang, his edema will go down.”

‘Oh! Thank you!”

“No problem Mrs. Jiang. I’ll leave you with your husband now..”

“Alright then, thank you Dr. Shen!”

Shen Wei was tired. It was 11.53 pm on a Sunday night and he was still at work. Not that he didn’t enjoy work, but he also enjoyed being at home in his comfortable bed. He remembers his professors in medical school telling him that the hardest part of being a doctor was the high influx of information he needed to retain. No one told him that explaining that amputations were not genetic would be a part of the job. But still, instances like this didn’t take away from his love for his job. If anything, they were silly stories to tell Ye Zun the next time he called. 

“Why do you always end up with the stupidest patients?” Ying Chun asked right as he walked to his desk. 

“They’re not stupid Ying jie, just misinformed.”

“Shen Wei, that lady is crazy.”

“Ying jie, she just moved out of her home village to a city 2 years ago. I don’t think she’s had the opportunity to get her medical degree in this time.”

“Alright alright Mr. ‘I’m too pure for this world’, I’ll stop making fun of her.”

“Thank you.”

They continued to work at their desks in silence, save for the bustling of the nurses and the medical staff around them, only to be interrupted by the phone on Shen Wei’s desk ringing. 

“Yes, Dr. Shen speaking.”

“Shen Wei!” It was the hospital director speaking. “Would you mind coming down to my office when you get the chance? I have an extremely important task for you.”

“Yes sir, I’ll be down in just a moment.”

Shen Wei simply sighed before he got up. He liked keeping administration and its staff as far away from him as possible, but even he couldn’t avoid them forever. He walked down to the administration office, and waited to be let in. He was shown in by a very harrowed looking secretary to the director’s office. 

When he walked into the office, instead of being greeted by the director, he was greeted by the face of the most handsome man he’d ever seen. 

The man had a short beard and mustache, and his forehead was fully covered by the bird’s nest of his hair. He was wearing scruffy clothes and had a lollipop dangling from his mouth. Rather than sitting on the available chair, he was perched on top of the table. Truth be told, he looked like a goon. But, there was something about his charming smile and his perceptive eyes that captivated Shen Wei. Before anyone could realize he’d been ogling the man, he turned to the director. 

“Good evening Director Wen. Did you need me for something?”

“Ah good, you’re here. Dr. Shen, this is Chief Zhao of the SID. Chief Zhao, this is Dr. Shen, the resident I was telling you about.”

So the man was a police officer. An officer who looked like that™. 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Chief Zhao.”

“No please, the pleasure is all mine.” 

Damnit, even his voice was nice.  

Chief Zhao walked forward and offered his hand for Shen Wei to shake. Shen Wei shook it before letting it go (a second after the socially acceptable amount of time but hey, no one said anything). 

“Dr. Shen, do you remember a patient you saw last week? He was a tall, bald man with a tattoo of roses and thorns running down his left arm?” Chief Zhao got right down to business. 

“I don’t recall exactly, but I think I have a vague recollection of him. May I ask why?”

“It’s best if you sit down for this, it may be a lot.” Shen Wei sat down on the couch while Chief Zhao sat on the table in front of him, and began explaining his predicament. “Dr. Shen, the man that you treated last week was Gu Shengyan, someone that my department has been tracking for months.”

“Sorry, you’re saying he’s a criminal?”

“Yes Dr. Shen. That man is a human trafficker.”

Shen Wei stared ahead with his mouth open. Shen Wei treated that man. He made sure to get him the best treatment, and even made sure he was comfortable throughout his stay. Hell, he even thought that Gu Shengyan was the politest patient he had all day, and here he was, a human trafficker. 

“Dr. Shen, we need your help in this case.”

“Me? Chief Zhao forgive me, but as an ER physician I don’t have continued contact with the patient.”

“I understand, we don’t need you to meet him again or lure him in or whatever. We just need to see some of his medical records and ask you a few questions.”

Shen Wei turned to Director Wen, who only nodded at him. Chief Zhao seemed to pick up on their silent conversation. He stepped towards Shen Wei and said, “Dr. Shen, we have a warrant for the records. Don’t worry, we’re not asking you to break any privacy laws.” He gave Shen Wei a small smile which Shen Wei found easy to reciprocate. 

“Okay, what precisely do you need me to do?”

“Come with us to our office when you get the chance, we’ll have you login to Gu Shengyan’s records and look through it. We’ll also have to ask you questions separately. It’s not a full on interrogation. Just think of it like an interview.”

“Dr. Shen,” Shen Wei turned back to the director. “We want this issue sorted out as soon as possible, we can’t have people finding out our hospital houses traffickers.” Shen Wei just nodded. “Do the best you can to help, and Chief Zhao, I trust you’ll handle the rest?”

Chief Zhao gave the director a smile that was more cutting than the one he gave Shen Wei. “Worry not Director Wen, we’ll make sure your hospital doesn’t face any backlash. I’ll take my leave now.”

Shen Wei also nodded his goodbye to the director and walked out with Chief Zhao. 

“When do you need me to come to your office?” Shen Wei turned to face the man, who seemed to already be looking at him with a small smile on his face. Shen Wei ducked his head, and continued walking. 

“When are you off next? Or rather, when do you not have plans? I wouldn’t want to interrupt your private time.”

“There’s no need to worry about that, I’m off in two days. If you give me the address I can come over at any point in the day.”

“Why don’t you give me your number, I’ll text you the details.”

“Oh, okay.” Shen Wei took out the cell phone Ye Zun had forced him to get and handed it to Chief Zhao. “You can put your number in here.”

Chief Zhao looked at Shen Wei with amusement before he began inputting his number. “Dr. Shen, you really need to have better survival instincts.”

"Hmm?”

“You just gave a complete stranger your cell phone. What if I installed a tracker in here while you weren’t looking?”

“You can do that?!” Shen Wei was shocked. No one told him that was a possibility. 

Chief Zhao just laughed. “Yes Dr. Shen, that is a possibility. But don’t worry, I did no such thing.” He handed Shen Wei’s phone back with a note that he would be messaging him soon and walked away towards the exit. Shen Wei began walking back to the emergency department while checking his phone. He saw Chief Zhao’s number newly put in. 

Zhao Yunlan :) 

Chapter Text

Good morning Chief Zhao. What 

time did you need me to come in

today? 

Dr. Shen! It’s good to hear from you. 

Is 2 pm okay? The address is 5 

Guangming Rd. 

Yes, 2 pm is fine. See you then.

See you then!

Shen Wei was now standing in front of an impressive office building, waiting to go in. He was glad to be of service to law enforcement, but it still made him a bit nervous. What were they going to ask him? And would Chief Zhao be there? He began walking into the building. 

The office on the inside looked more like a start up than a municipal government building. Sunlight was streaming in through the large windows and the rooms were furnished in color. Was that employee playing sudoku on his computer? Shen Wei was surprised, but in a way, it seemed nice. 

“Dr. Shen! You’re here!” Chief Zhao was sauntering into the main office room, with another lollipop dangling from his mouth. This one was red, and made his already plush lips look even more defined. Shen Wei silently shook himself out of those thoughts. He was here to help on a criminal case for goodness sake. 

“Good afternoon Chief Zhao.”

“Come in, I had my chief technician set up a software that can track your files. You just have to log in and open Gu Shengyan’s file, and just show us around. Then, we’ll take you into the interview room. Sound like a plan?”

“Yes, that is fine.”

“A man of few words I see.” Zhao Yunlan chuckled at Shen Wei as he walked to the computer room, but he didn’t seem malicious. There were many people who told Shen Wei he didn’t speak enough, or smile enough in the past. Shen Wei just accepted it as a flaw of his. Zhao Yunlan didn’t seem judgemental, however. He just stated it like it was a fact. 

When Shen Wei walked into the computer lab, he expected rows of devices each manned by a person who worked more like a robot than a human being. Instead, there was one large (rather messy) desk whose sole occupant seemed to be taking a nap in a pile of chips. 

“Lin Jing! Am I paying you to nap or work?”

“Huh, wha? Oh! Sorry chief, hehehe.” Lin Jing seemed chastised, but he also didn’t seem to care much. What an odd working environment.

“I’m cutting your bonus for the month.”

“You already did?”

"Oh, then I’m cutting it for next month!”

"Chief Zhao!”

“Shut up and show Dr. Shen how to work the program.”

“Yes chief.”

Zhao Yunlan signaled Shen Wei to take a seat at Lin Jing’s desk, which he managed to do with minimal hesitation. Seriously, the desk looked like a biohazard. Lin Jing explained the contents of his software and guided Shen Wei through what to do. He mostly just had to sift through Gu Shengyan’s note from his visit and explain a few things. Everytime he looked up, he saw Chief Zhao looking intently at him. It was honestly nerve wracking. Was Chief Zhao scoping him out to be a suspect? When they came to an end of the note, Chief Zhao led him to an interview room and explained that he would be speaking with some of his employees, and walked out. Shen Wei took a seat at the desk and sat as calmly as he could. 

The first person to walk in was a young man wearing dungarees. Did they not have a dress code here? At first glance, he looked to be an intern, but at a closer look at his badge, Shen Wei could see that this was the deputy chief of the SID.

Shen Wei opened his mouth to greet him when suddenly, “I smell fish.” Shen Wei blinked. And then blinked again. Was this a part of the interview?

“Pardon?”

“I smell fish, do you have some on you?”

“Oh, no, my apologies. I made fried fish biscuits this morning for my neighbor. I must not have cleaned my hands up properly. I can go wash them if,”

“No. I like fish. It’s fine.”

“Oh.”

“Anyway, let’s start. First of all, my name is Da Qing, I’m the deputy director of the SID who’s been forced to work today despite it being my day off. Can I have your name, age, and occupation?”

“Shen Wei, 27, second year resident doctor at Longcheng Emergency Department.”

“Dr. Shen, what do you know about the perp?”

“His name is Gu Shengyan, he came in because he had a very large wound on his leg that was beginning to look infected.”

“And did he mention why it was infected?”

“He said he worked at the local shipyard and his leg was struck by a large fishhook.”

“So he said he was a dock worker?”

“He didn’t say it exactly, but he implied it.”

“And you didn’t find it odd that a dock worker was wearing expensive clothes?”

“No, I’ve seen many people come in with a strange fashion sense. This was not the strangest by far.”

“Oh, what was the strangest?”

“Um, there was a lady who came in with a purple fedora and,” Rap. Someone tapped the window from the outside. 

“It’s okay, laoban’s just a hardass sometimes. I’ll ask you about purple fedora later. But anyway, did Gu Shengyan say anything about his recent activities? Jobs, locations, people?”

“He did actually. He mentioned he moved here from Thailand and was looking to permanently settle here. He also mentioned someone named Lao Xu I believe. I think it was a friend that was helping him settle.”

“Was there anything he did or said that raised any red flags for you or your staff?”

“He was ogling some of the female staff I heard. One of my coworkers said that he asked her some strange questions about her living situation.”

“Okay, thank you Dr. Shen. That’s all for today. If we need you again we’ll call you back.”

“Alright, thank you.”

When Shen Wei walked  out of the room, he was faced by a pretty young woman and Zhao Yunlan. 

“Chief Zhao.”

“Dr. Shen, it looks like you’re done.”

“Yes. Is there anything else you need me to do?”

“No, you’re all good to go.”

“I’ll be on my way then.”

“Dr. Shen!” Da Qing came running out of the interview room. “Do you have the recipe for the fish biscuits you made today?”

“I can write it down for you if you would like?”

“Yes please! Here, let’s go to my desk.” Shen Wei walked with Da Qing who began rambling on about his favorite fish based recipes. He turned his head slightly to see where Chief Zhao went, and to his mild surprise, he was following them. 

“Why are you stalking me?” Da Qing seemed to have noticed him as well. “I’m not doing anything illegal, and it’s my day off anyway.”

“I would also like to see this amazing recipe of Dr. Shen’s.” Zhao Yunlan smiled at Shen Wei, but it seemed shrewd, like he was calculating something. Shen Wei didn’t know what was so suspicious about a fish biscuit recipe, but he would find out soon enough he supposed. 

While he wrote out the recipe in front of an increasingly excitable Da Qing, he noticed Zhao Yunlan standing extremely close behind him. He could almost feel the heat off his body where he was leaning over Shen Wei’s shoulder. Shen Wei tried his best not to blush and continue writing. When he finally finished, he handed off the piece of paper to Da Qing and stepped away from Zhao Yunlan’s space. 

“If that is all, I should be getting back home.”

Zhao Yunlan looked at him for a short moment. “Of course. If we need any more info from you I’ll send you a text.”

“Of course.”

Chapter Text

Shen Wei was with a patient when another call came. 

“Dr. Shen, the director wants to see you again.”

“Would you mind telling him that I’ll be there soon, I would like to finish speaking with Mrs. Tian here.”

“Of course Dr. Shen.”

Shen Wei finished speaking with his patient before he began walking to Director Wen’s office. What did this man want now? Did he have to interrupt him while he was doing his job. 

“Dr. Shen?”

“Oh, Dr. Wu. Hello.” It was Dr. Wu, Shen Wei’s direct supervisor. 

“Where are you headed, I thought I had you for another couple of hours at least?”

“Yes, my apologies Dr. Wu. Director Wen was calling me to his office again. It must be about the Gu Shengyan case.”

“Yes, I heard about that. Director Wen talked about it at our last meeting. How are you feeling Shen Wei?”

“Pardon?”

“You must be afraid, or at least a little worried?” Dr. Wu stepped forward a bit closer to Shen Wei. He really did look worried for his well being. Shen Wei really did feel lucky to have such an understanding superior. He wanted to show Dr. Wu that there really wasn’t any reason to be concerned about him. He smiled as calmly as he could, and told Dr. Wu, “I’m perfectly fine Dr. Wu. I trust that this will all get sorted out.”

Dr. Wu seemed a bit flushed after he said that, and he turned away from Shen Wei’s eyeline. Maybe he was the nervous one? 

“Well, that’s great Shen Wei. I-I’ll see you around. Don’t overwork yourself.” Shen Wei nodded and resumed his path to the director’s office. 

“Oh, and Shen Wei?” Shen Wei turned again. “You look good when you smile, you should do it more often.” Dr. Wu walked away briskly. 

When Shen Wei turned around, he came face to face with Zhao Yunlan. 

“Chief Zhao?”

“Hello Dr. Shen, are you heading to the director’s office?”

“I am.”

“Me too! Let’s walk together then.” Shen Wei kept his eyes ahead instead of staring at the obviously handsome man. His hair still looked worse than a bird’s nest and his clothes looked roughed up. If anything, he was the antithesis of Shen Wei, with his perfectly coiffed hair and ironed clothes. Still, there was something about him. At least he didn’t have that damn lollipop this time. 

“Was that your friend Dr. Shen?”

“Hm? Oh, no. That was my supervising doctor, Dr. Wu.”

“You seem close.”

“I wouldn’t say close, but he’s a very good boss.”

“I see.” They continued to walk a bit in silence, Shen Wei awkwardly glancing at Zhao Yunlan.”

“You must have a girlfriend or boyfriend.” Shen Wei stopped walking and looked at Zhao Yunlan, raising an eyebrow. Zhao Yunlan only smiled back at him. “You’re very talented Dr. Shen, and you have a lovely personality and face. I’d be surprised if you didn’t.” 

Shen Wei blinked at him. Lovely? No one had ever called him that before. Was Zhao Yunlan mocking him?

“No, I do not. My job takes up most of my time, and the rest I prefer to spend in my own home.”

“Hmm.”

By then, they had reached the director’s office and went in. It was a rather boring meeting, with both Shen Wei and Zhao Yunlan updating the man on the information they had. It just further proved Shen Wei’s point of staying as far away from administration as he could. The man was, to simply put it, annoying. Shen Wei couldn’t finish the meeting fast enough. He didn’t know how Zhao Yunlan did it. He assumed the man would have to meet multiple higher ups in his job, and he seemed to do it with ease. He kept up a smile throughout the entire meeting while sidestepping all the director’s questions and jabs. It was quite impressive. It almost took an hour for both of them to come out. 

“Well that was a lot.” Zhao Yunlan stretched backwards, riding back his shirt. Shen Wei’s eyes were drawn to the skin that was displayed before jerking his head forward. 

“Yes, it was a bit much.”

“Do you need a ride home Dr. Shen?”

“Hm?”

“Your colleague, Dr. Ying said that you don’t have a car. I wouldn’t want you to have to take the bus home after such a long day.”

When did Zhao Yunlan meet his colleague? And why were they talking about him? He’d have to ask Ying jie later. 

“That’s alright Chief Zhao. I wouldn’t want to be an imposition.”

“Nonsense! Come on, I parked right outside the doors.”

“In the patient parking lot?”

“Yes.” Zhao Yunlan walked off towards the main exit, and Shen Wei dutifully followed, smiling.  

Shen Wei was no longer smiling. The car in front of him was nothing but a monstrosity. It was bright red and garish, and he was surprised it belonged to a government official. “Come on in!”. Zhao Yunlan didn’t look self conscious at the slightest, and instead got into his car jovially. Shen Wei could do nothing but follow. It was a comfortable car on the inside, which Shen Wei appreciated as he sat down. When he tried to buckle his seatbelt, he realized it was stuck in place. He tried a few more times to get it to work before looking at Zhao Yunlan for help. Zhao Yunlan was leaning on his elbows against the steering wheel, looking at Shen Wei in amusement. It made Shen Wei duck his head. Zhao Yunlan only let out a small chuckle before leaning over to help Shen Wei. Zhao Yunlan was directly over Shen Wei, helping him pull the seatbelt down. Shen Wei realized that if he moved forward just a little, he could nose Zhao Yunlan’s neck. The thought stopped him, and he tried his best to remain as still as possible. That didn’t matter however, when Zhao Yunlan turned to Shen Wei and said “The passenger seat doesn’t get much use, so the seatbelt gets stuck sometimes.” He was so close. 

Zhao Yunlan moved back just as sudden as he moved in, and sat back down in his own seat. Shen Wei could finally breathe. The rest of the car ride went by in easy conversation, with only the sound of the GPS interrupting them. Shen Wei learned more about Zhao Yunlan’s job, while also talking about his. They talked about their coworkers and their minute annoyances. Shen Wei felt at ease talking to Zhao Yunlan. He didn’t normally like talking to people he didn’t know very well, but Zhao Yunlan was an exception. And suddenly, it all came to a halt when they stopped in front of Shen Wei’s apartment.

“Fuck!” Shen Wei cursed out. Why was Wang Xutian here of all times? 

“Shen Wei, are you okay?”

“Um, I’m so sorry, but would you mind stopping in the back of the building?”

“Of course! But what happened?”

“Yes, yes I’m okay, it’s just, that man standing in front of the entrance is my ex boyfriend, and I really don’t want to see him.”

Zhao Yunlan gripped the steering wheel a little tighter, and he looked upset. Nonetheless, he turned the car around to go towards the back of the building. But instead of stopping in front of the door, he parked his Jeep. 

“I’ll stay here until we know he’s gone.”

“Ah? No, it’s quite alright. I can go up the back entrance.”

“No, I’d rather stay here. Don’t worry about being an imposition or whatever you called yourself; I have absolutely nothing else to do for the rest of the night.”

“Oh.”

They sat there in silence for a bit before Zhao Yunlan began talking again. 

“So, if you don’t mind me asking, what’s the deal with your ex?”

“He’s, well, he’s an ex is all.”

“Okay.” Zhao Yunlan smiled again before facing forward. Shen Wei assumed he would press him for more details, but he didn’t. He simply accepted what Shen Wei said. 

“Wang Xutian and I were in a relationship during medical school.” Zhao Yunlan turned around and gave Shen Wei his full attention. “We met during orientation, and stuck together since then. Eventually, he asked me on a date and I agreed. We were happy for a bit.” Zhao Yunlan nodded, encouraging him to go on. 

“It only started going wrong when I met his best friend. Apparently they had been attached at the hip since they were small children. It was clear from the beginning that she did not approve of me. She went out of her way anytime we met to show me that she meant more to Xutian than I could ever. I tried talking to Wang Xutian about it, but he would always shut me down. After a while, I just couldn’t take it anymore. I broke up with him.”

Shen Wei looked forward, refusing to see what expression Zhao Yunlan was making. It shouldn’t matter, what this strange man thought of him. Still, it would upset Shen Wei if he reacted the same way as many of his other friends did - either saying he overreacted or didn’t react enough. 

“You did the right thing.” Shen Wei did turn this time. 

“Do you really think so?”

“I do.” Zhao Yunlan reached forward, almost as if he wanted to hold Shen Wei’s hand. He stopped midway and moved back. “You shouldn’t stay with people who don’t respect you.”

“Yes! That’s what I thought as well.” It felt like a small weight still in Shen Wei’s heart was lifted. 

“But now he knows where you live.”

Shen Wei deflated again. This was a problem. “Yes, he does. I don’t know what to do now. I truly never want to speak with him again. He said, well he had some choice words when we broke up.”

Zhao Yunlan’s affable expression closed off a bit, and he gazed at the direction Wang Xutian was standing in with something almost similar to anger. 

“I have an idea.”

“What is it?”

“Move to my apartment building.”

Chapter Text

“Move to my apartment building.”

Shen Wei expected Zhao Yunlan to say a lot of things, but ‘be my neighbor’ was not one of them. 

“What?”

“The unit across from mine is empty, and it’s a pretty affordable place. If you move, I don’t think your ex will be able to find you very easily. That, and it’s for your own safety. If this Gu Shengyan case goes sideways, you’ll have me close by for your protection.”

That did sound reasonable, and his apartment now was quite small. 

“I think I would appreciate that. Do you have a phone number I can call to set up a viewing?”

Zhao Yunlan smiled and pulled out his phone. He sent Shen Wei the link to the apartment’s website, along with the phone number of the real estate agent. Shen Wei thanked him, and they waited a bit more in comfortable silence, occasionally broken by Shen Wei’s periodic questions about the case. He didn’t even realize how much time had passed by until he glanced at the clock in the car. 

“Oh my! I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to waste this much of your time! I truly apologize. I think I’ll get going now.” He got out of the car and began walking to the back door, when Zhao Yunlan’s voice stopped him

“Shen Wei!” Shen Wei turned around. “You didn’t waste any of my time.” Zhao Yunlan smiled at him once more, and drove out of the parking lot. Shen Wei simply stared as he drove away, willing his heart to stop speeding up. 

The next few days found Shen Wei talking to the real estate agent in order to set up a viewing. The next few weeks found him signing the lease and getting ready to move in. The apartment was honestly perfect for him. It was close to the hospital and the rent was the same as his old place despite the increased amenities. More importantly, it would protect his safety, both from the human trafficker psychopath and his ex boyfriend. And if there was an added perk of a roguish, charming police officer living next door, then that was neither here nor there. 

Of course, there was the matter of Zhao Yunlan himself. Shen Wei thought about him as he walked out of the hospital. Should he text the man back thanking him for introducing him to the apartment? Would that be too forward? He didn’t have to think too hard on the matter however, as he saw the man of the hour himself parked outside the hospital doors. 

“Chief Zhao? What are you doing here?”

“Dr. Shen! I came to pick you up of course.”

That stopped Shen Wei in his tracks. Chief Zhao just came to pick him up from work? That didn’t seem right. Perhaps he had more things to discuss about the case, or had some information about the apartment building. 

“Dr. Shen?”

“Yes Chief Zhao?”

“I can hear you overthinking from here.” Zhao Yunlan’s eyes had that same amusement he’d seen in them all those weeks ago, the first time he offered Shen Wei a ride home from work. All Shen Wei could do was duck his head to avoid looking at him for too long. “I mi…uh, I missed seeing you at the last meeting we had with Director Wen. I thought he would bring you along but he didn’t.” 

“Oh! Yes, he mentioned that to me in an email. He didn’t mention that I could join, however.”

Zhao Yunlan's smile faltered a bit. “I told him very explicitly that you were very much invited.”

“Oh.”

“It’s alright, anyway, please I insist on giving you a ride.” And that was how Shen Wei found himself in Zhao Yunlan’s monstrous car once more, still confused on how he got there in the first place. He debated asking Zhao Yunlan what he was actually doing here before Zhao Yunlan spoke up once more. 

“So how have you been? I haven’t seen you in a while.”

“I’m fine, thank you. Oh, and I wanted to thank you for telling me about your apartment complex. I’m all set to move into the unit across from you this week.”

“Oh yeah on Thursday.”

Shen Wei blinked. “Hm? How did you know that?”

At this, Zhao Yunlan seemed a bit flustered. “Ah? Uh, I saw the realtor take down the sign on the door a while ago and asked about you.”

Shen Wei had to duck his head to hide a smile. So Zhao Yunlan had been thinking about him then. 

“So chief Zhao,”

“Zhao Yunlan.”

“Pardon?”

“We’re about to be neighbors! The least you can do is call me by my actual name. None of this Chief Zhao nonsense, my subordinates barely call me that.”

Shen Wei laughed and turned to the window next to him, so he missed Zhao Yunlan’s stupefied expression. “Alright then Zhao Yunlan, but you’ll have to call me Shen Wei as well.”

“Deal” Zhao Yunlan held out a pinkie towards Shen Wei and looked at him expectantly. Shen Wei let out another laugh at the offered pinkie, and then once again at the widening grin on Zhao Yunlan’s face. He finally linked his pinkie to Zhao Yunlan’s and held it for a second before letting go. They continued to drive in comfortable silence until Zhao Yunlan reached Shen Wei’s apartment.

Shen Wei was reluctant to say goodbye. He had been having a lovely time with Zhao Yunlan, and he was loath to let it end. Zhao Yunlan also seemed to be hesitating for whatever reason. 

“I should head out. Thank you for the ride.” 

“Of course. Oh, and do you have anyone helping you move?”

“No, I couldn’t book any large scale movers so I was going to rent a pickup truck. I don’t have very many things to begin with and the new apartment is fully furnished so it shouldn’t be too difficult.”

“Don’t even worry about it then, I’ll help you move!”

“What? No Zhao Yunlan I wouldn’t want to be an,”

“Imposition? It’s no trouble at all, seriously. I have Thursday off anyway and I need something to do. And seeing your pretty face again would definitely be an upside.”

Shen Wei had to physically fight his instinct to blush. Surely Zhao Yunlan was joking with him. That was all. 

“Are you sure? You really don’t have to, it won’t take much effort on my part.”

“Then it’ll take even less effort if we both do it together. Don’t worry about booking a pickup truck either, they’re too expensive. My jeep has a lot of trunk space and it’ll just be the two of us so we can finish it in three, maybe four trips tops.”

Shen Wei didn’t know what to say. He didn’t know what he did to ever deserve this much kindness. 

“In that case, I’d love to accept. Thank you Zhao Yunlan.” Shen Wei smiled and attempted to push all the gratitude he felt into his words and face. Zhao Yunlan seemed to understand as he sent a smile equally fond back. They just stayed in that limbo for a moment, unwilling to let it stop. Finally, Shen Wei saw the time. He couldn’t keep Zhao Yunlan here for longer. He gave him one more quick smile and exited the car. 

“Good night Zhao Yunlan.”

“Good night Shen Wei.”

Chapter Text

Shen Wei stood waiting on the curb of his old apartment complex with most of his things by his side. He wasn’t lying when he said he didn’t have many things. He could barely stop his heart from racing. Zhao Yunlan was going to be here any minute to help him move. He spent an inordinate amount of time fussing over what he should wear this morning before deciding on a light white sweater with his navy blue slacks. The outfit was comfortable enough to move things in, and it made his skin glow, or whatever Ye Zun had said when he bought it for him. Shen Wei checked the phone for the time, 8.55 am. Zhao Yunlan said he would be here at 9. Barely 2 minutes passed before he could see the tell tale splotch of bright red against the backdrop. Zhao Yunlan sped up a bit when he seemed to notice Shen Wei and threw a charming smile his way. His hair was a bit slicked back, as if he didn’t dry it after taking a shower, and he was somehow wearing clothes that were even more casual than usual. 

“Good morning Shen Wei.”

“Good morning. Thank you again for helping me move.”

“Ah, but of course! It’s the least I can do for my new and most definitely favorite neighbor.” 

Shen Wei huffed before picking up some of his boxes and moving to put them into the back of the car. Zhao Yunlan also got out and began helping him, allowing Shen Wei to appreciate the flexing of his biceps. 

Just as Zhao Yunlan had predicted, they were able to move all of Shen Wei’s things in 4 trips. 

Despite the entire process taking upwards of a few hours, Shen Wei didn’t feel burdened at all. In fact, he was having fun talking to Zhao Yunlan. He didn’t think he ever had this long of a conversation with anyone in his life. They spent every single car ride and elevator ride talking about their childhoods, their jobs, their friends, and their families. It made Shen Wei happy, to speak with someone who irrevocably cared about what he had to say. Sometimes, when telling him a particularly interesting story, Zhao Yunlan would lean closer to him, as if he was inviting him into a cherished secret. It made Shen Wei’s face heat up and heart thump. He’s only being friendly, he would remind himself. That didn’t stop him from carving the memory into his heart, to visit at a later time. Later, when all Shen Wei’s things were moved into his new apartment, Zhao Yunlan invited him to dinner at a nearby noodle stall. 

“You can’t expect to cook on the day you’ve moved! That’s a war crime for god’s sake.”

“Against who?”

“Against me! I don’t like seeing my friends torturing themselves. And this is torture Shen Wei, that’s even against the Geneva Convention. Do you want to break the Geneva Convention?”

Shen Wei only laughed at Zhao Yunlan’s antics and accepted his invitation. They talked well into the night, sharing even more stories over the warm noodles and cool drinks. Unlike others who would try to convince Shen Wei to try alcohol, Zhao Yunlan only gave him a slightly amused look before canceling his own order of Baiju and switching to soda. Shen Wei could only look on, once again wondering what he did to deserve such treatment. 

FInally, when they finished the noodles, Zhao Yunlan asked him if he wanted to go for a walk to tour the neighborhood. Shen Wei should say no. He still has work tomorrow and he needed to unpack at least a few of his things. But in the end, his wish to spend more time with Zhao Yunlan won out. They walked everywhere, with Zhao Yunlan pointing out fun spots here and there. “I’ll take you there next time,” he would say with that now familiar teasing lilt of his. Shen Wei’s heart thumped again at the promise of a next time. Unfortunately, they did have to separate at the end of the night. They stood across from each other, not knowing how to say good night. 

“What time do you have to go to work tomorrow?”

“7 am, why?”

“Ah damnit. I wanted to give you a ride to work, but I have a meeting at 6, and it’s definitely going to go over an hour.”

“Please don’t worry about me. I always take the bus, and luckily this apartment is even closer to the bus stop. It truly is not a problem for me.”

“I know but still. What time do you get off of work?”

“7 pm, and really Zhao Yunlan you don’t have to bother.”

Zhao Yunlan looked at him with some amount of amusement. “It’s not a bother at all. Your hospital is quite literally between the office and our apartment. I’ll come get you tomorrow at 7. Good night Shen Wei.”

“Good night Zhao Yunlan.”

The next day, Shen Wei spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to stop himself from daydreaming. He wasn’t a teenager with his first crush, he was a grown man. A grown man with his first crush. He couldn’t stop thinking about yesterday, how Zhao Yunlan seemed to want to spend more time with him. Was it just for the case, or because they were neighbors? Or was it that Zhao Yunlan also liked him? No, that couldn’t be the case. Zhao Yunlan looked like someone who valued thrills and excitement. Something Shen Wei decidedly was not. He tried not to let the pang of disappointment affect him too much. He was friends with Zhao Yunlan, maybe, and that should be enough. With that, he continued on with the day. 

At exactly 6.55 pm, Shen Wei started to pack up to leave. It wouldn’t do to keep Zhao Yunlan waiting. 

“Shen Wei! Are you actually leaving on time? What has the world come to?” Leave it to Ying jie to bring the theatrics. 

“Yes jie, good night.”

“Shen Wei?”

“Yes?”

“Do you have a date by any chance?”

“Does who have a date?” Damnit. Dr. Cheng was here too. 

“I think Dr. Shen here has a hot date tonight. He’s leaving on time.”

“Shen Wei’s leaving on time? Oh he most definitely has a hot date.”

“Ying jie, Cheng jie, I promise I do not have a, a hot date.” Just saying those words made him cringe. “My neighbor is picking me up and I do not want him to wait.”

“Grandma Pao’s picking you up?”

“What? Oh, no. I forgot to tell both of you, but I recently moved. Wang Xutian somehow found my old apartment, and you know how unstable he can be when he’s frustrated. That and the human trafficker. So I moved somewhere safer.”

“Wang Xutian that bastard! How dare he try to come back into your life.” When Shen Wei first broke up with Wang Xutian, it was Dr. Cheng who had first supported him. She was never really a fan of him to begin with, and wholeheartedly agreed with his decision to finally end the relationship. “Anyway, how did you make friends with your neighbor so quickly? Are you sure he’s also not a creepy stalker?”

“I’m sure Cheng jie. In fact, my neighbor is the one who told me about the apartment in the first place. It’s Chief Zhao, the officer who was here to discuss the Gu Shengyan case.”

When he shared this bit of information, he saw his friends exchanging a glance with each other. 

“Oh but of course! Well we don’t want to keep him waiting now do we? You head out Shen Wei, we’ll see you tomorrow.”

Shen Wei blinked at this abrupt end to the conversation. It seemed as though he was missing something here. The way Cheng jie and Ying jie looked at each other, coupled with the information that he knew Zhao Yunlan once spoke to Ying jie about him, something was off. 

“What are you waiting for? Scram!” Shen Wei waved good bye to them and began leaving the building. He was outside when he ran into someone else. 

“Dr. Shen? Is your shift up already?”

“Oh, Dr. Wu. Good evening sir. Yes, it is. I was just about to head home.”

“Oh, it’s a bit late to be taking the bus. Would you like a ride, I’m going home as well.”

Shen Wei was about to tell him that there really was no need when someone else beat him to it. 

“Shen Wei is fine, that’s what I’m here for anyway.”

They both turned around to see the intruder when Shen Wei’s gaze landed on Zhao Yunlan. 

“Zhao Yunlan, you’re here.”

“Yes.” Zhao Yunlan glanced at Shen Wei before turning towards Dr. Wu and looking him up and down. Shen Wei tried not to let that affect him. So what if Zhao Yunlan found Dr. Wu attractive?

“Zhao Yunlan, this is Dr. Wu, my supervising doctor. Dr. Wu, this is officer Zhao. He’s in charge of the Gu Shengyan case and also my new neighbor. Or rather, I’m his new neighbor.”

“Pleasure to meet you.” Dr. Wu’s voice seemed a bit cold for whatever reason. 

“Please, the pleasure is all mine.” Zhao Yunlan drawled out. The two men seemed to be locked in a staring competition, unwilling to let the other win. When it began to feel awkward, Shen Wei cleared his throat. 

“Let’s go Shen Wei, it’s time to go home.” They finally ended whatever show of dominance they had going on and separated. Shen Wei nodded a good night to Dr. Wu before leaving to follow Zhao Yunlan. When they got in the car, Shen Wei couldn’t help himself.

“Were you attracted to Dr. Wu?”

Zhao Yunlan snapped his neck to look at him. “What the fuck?”

“It’s fine, I know he’s a handsome man.”

“You think he’s handsome?”

“Hm? I mean, not me particularly, but I know other people find him attractive.”

“And you thought I found him attractive?”

“Well, there’s nothing wrong with one handsome man being attracted to another handsome man.”

“So you think I’m handsome?” Zhao Yunlan smirked at Shen Wei, and it made Shen Wei swallow. Of course he found Zhao Yunlan handsome, especially with that damn lollipop in his mouth and the way the lights outside would make his features softer. He refused to answer and simply turned to the side. 

It was silent for only one moment before he heard a snort. He turned to look only to see Zhao Yunlan cackling for a good minute before speaking again. “Shen Wei, you silly man.”

“Silly?”

“Yes, silly.”

Shen Wei did not pout, but it was a close thing. Zhao Yunlan looked over at him, and cackled again. He reached over and lightly pinched Shen Wei’s cheek. 

“It’s fine though, you’re cute enough to make up for it.”

Chapter Text

Standing outside the SID office, Shen Wei was wondering if he should go in. He technically was supposed to be here, asked to assist with some evidence once more. But still, he was 15 minutes early. The bags he was carrying only added to his predicament. He waited outside for a few more minutes before he realized he was being silly. Decision made, he walked inside. 

After checking in with the receptionist, Shen Wei walked into the lobby. It looked the same as it did the first time he was here, but much more busy. In the corner, he could see an intimidating man hunched over someone who looked like the human equivalent of a mouse. He scanned over the room and found who he was looking for. 

Zhao Yunlan looked like he was in deep conversation with his deputy. He looked more serious than Shen Wei was used to but no less handsome. His hair still looked like it had never seen a comb in his life but that only made Shen Wei want to run his fingers through it. Before he could stop himself, the image of Zhao Yunlan laying down on his lap, dozing away as Shen Wei stroked his hair flooded his mind. He had to visibly shake his head to make it go away. 

The movement caught Zhao Yunlan’s eyes, as he turned towards Shen Wei. Immediately, his expression closed up and he began making his way to where Shen Wei was standing. His deputy seemed a bit peeved before promptly following him. 

“Well if it isn’t my favorite imposition!” Shen Wei blinked for a second trying to understand in what way he was an imposition to Zhao Yunlan before he realized it was a joke. He huffed out a small laugh which only made Zhao Yunlan grin harder. If Shen Wei wasn’t so focused on Zhao Yunlan, he would have noticed Da Qing rolling his eyes. 

“Good morning Zhao Yunlan. Did you sleep well?”

“I absolutely did, all thanks to the home cooked meal someone made for me.” That made Shen Wei smile. “Anyway, what’s that you have in your hands?”

“I didn’t want to come empty handed so I made your team breakfast.” At this, the other team members who were only glancing at him before trying to pretend like they weren’t paying attention to his interaction with their chief descended upon him. It was Da Qing who spoke up first.

“Food? What did you make us?”

“I remembered you liked the smell of the fish biscuits last time so I made a box of those. And there is also youtiou, custard buns, tofu pudding, and jianbing. I don’t know if it’s to your liking but-”

“To our liking? Are you kidding me?” This time it was Lin Jing who spoke up. “You’re our savior!” With a chorus of thank yous, everyone took a bag into their hands and began unpacking the food onto a large table in the center of the room. It would have startled Shen Wei if it wasn’t for the warmth in the atmosphere. In times like this, he really did miss his younger brother. 

Zhao Yunlan stepped up next to him and put an arm around his shoulder. That actually did startle him before he schooled his response back into careful neutrality. “Sorry about them, I know they can be a lot.” 

“I don’t mind. It’s nice to see such a close working environment. It’s rare.”

Shen Wei turned to face Zhao Yunlan and almost stepped back as he noticed how close they were. It was only Zhao Yunlan’s grip on his shoulder that stopped him from stepping away. From up close, he noticed that he was slightly shorter than Zhao Yunlan. He had to wrench his eyes upward to stop them from drifting to stare at Zhao Yunlan’s plump lips. 

“Dr. Shen!” Da Qing’s voice broke whatever reverie he was in and finally allowed him to step away from Zhao Yunlan. He turned to Da Qing to ask if something was wrong when he saw Da Qing marching towards him with a fish biscuit in his mouth. He only had a second to prepare before Da Qing launched himself at him. 

Faced with an armful of a young man, Shen Wei didn’t know what to do, so he opted to awkwardly pat his back. 

“Um, are you okay?”

“I’m in heaven. Are you an angel?”

Shen Wei didn’t know how to respond, and was thankfully saved when Zhao Yunlan pulled Da Qing out from the impromptu hug. 

“Fatty, what's wrong with you! You’re going to scare away my lovely doctor.”

“Lao Zhao, you wouldn’t judge me if you had a taste of his food, it’s the best thing I’ve had in my life. I think I’ve died and gone to heaven and Dr. Shen is the angel that’s come to greet me.”

“First of all, you’re not dead. Second of all, I have had his food multiple times. I don’t think I’ve made a single meal in the past 3 weeks.”

Albeit embarrassing, it was true. When Shen Wei discovered Zhao Yunlan’s abysmal eating habits, he decided to invite him over for dinner whenever he was home. They’d been having dinner together every night since then. Shen Wei turned away from everyone. He was in a room full of talented detectives and it wouldn’t do to wear his heart on his sleeve. What if Zhao Yunlan found out about his untoward feelings and stopped spending time with him. Shen Wei would rather work multiple full day shifts in a row before he let that happen. 

“Wow, it’s no wonder laoban was so peachy when he didn’t see Dr. Shen for a few weeks. He was missing out on this heavenly meal.” 

Shen Wei’s head shot up at that statement. Zhao Yunlan missed him? When? 

“Okay okay everyone shut up. Shen Wei, we called you here because we have some photographs we need you to look at.”

“Of course, lead the way.”

Shen Wei was led into the back of the room where he was faced with a large bulletin board filled with blurry pictures. 

“We need to see if you can identify Gu Shengyan from any of these pictures. Technically, you’re the only one who’s ever seen him up close. Do you see him, or any resemblance of him in these pictures?”

Shen Wei looked carefully while Zhao Yunlan backed off a little bit, giving him some space to think. He scanned through the pictures before he found one that looked familiar. Gu Shengyan was wearing the same hat as the one in this picture, and there was a large bandage right where he treated him too.

He signaled to Zhao Yunlan and pointed out what he noticed. Within minutes, Zhao Yunlan barked out orders to his employees and sent them out to do various tasks. It was fascinating how the environment went from relaxed and jovial to serious in mere moments. 

“Thanks for the help Xiao Wei.” Shen Wei was in the middle of walking when he stumbled. Xiao Wei? He could only look at Zhao Yunlan in barely concealed wonder. 

Zhao Yunlan let out what could only be a nervous chuckle. “Sorry, I never asked how you felt about nicknames.”

“I like it.” The certainty in his voice surprised him. 

“Oh. Well in that case, Xiao Wei it is.”

“Zhao Yunlan?”

“Yes Xiao Wei?”

“How dangerous is this man?” Zhao Yunlan blinked at the change in conversation. He quickly pivoted and his expression changed once more. 

“He’s been on the run from the police for a long time. The only reason he hasn’t been caught is because he has a very large network. That and the fact that he’s cruel and he will do anything to survive. So short answer, yes, he is dangerous. But don’t worry. I-we’ll protect you.”

Shen Wei stepped closer and reached out to Zhao Yunlan’s arm. 

“I’m not worried about me, I’m worried about you. You’re chasing down a dangerous human trafficker, and-”

“Xiao Wei, don’t worry too much about me. I’ve been doing this for a long time and he sure as hell isn’t the first psycho I’ve gone after. I have my whole team with me, and now I have you too.”

Shen Wei didn’t know what to say, so he just squeezed Zhao Yunlan’s arm. He would just have to do what he could to make sure Zhao Yunlan stayed safe.

Chapter Text

“Zhao Yunlan, put that back.”

“But Xiao Wei, this is limited edition!”

“You’ve already put 3 different bags of candy and other junk food in here. If you really want that one you’re going to need to replace it with something already in the cart.”

“Alright alright, whatever the wife says.” Zhao Yunlan obediently took out one of the colorful bags in the cart and put it to the side, replacing it with whatever limited edition health nightmare was in his hands. Shen Wei tried his best to maintain a stoic expression, not willing to let a blush overtake his face. Zhao Yunlan had been making many such comments lately, it wouldn’t do to dwell on them. He must kid like this with everyone. 

They continued to shop in peace, with Zhao Yunlan pushing the cart and Shen Wei holding their joint grocery list. It was a tradition they had started within a few weeks of Shen Wei moving in, as Shen Wei didn’t have a car and Zhao Yunlan didn’t have a sense of adulthood. Despite it being technically a chore, Shen Wei would always look forward to their shopping trips. 

“Zhao Yunlan, I said no more than 3 pieces of junk food.”

“But-”

“No. You already eat an ungodly amount of lollipops in one day, not to mention the constant take out when I’m not around. Put that back.”

“Fine, fine it’s going back.”

Their bickering was interrupted by a loud chuckle. They turned around to see who the source of their mockery was when Shen Wei saw Zhao Yunlan stiffen up. When he looked at the laughing man, he saw a distinct similarity between Zhao Yunlan and the intruder. It couldn’t be-

“Hi dad.”

“Hello son.”

Ah. This must be Zhao Yunlan’s infamous father. 

“You look well Yunlan, like a human being for once.”

“Listen here old man, I-”

“And you must be Dr. Shen.” Shen Wei startled at being directly addressed. Only years of training with intimidating doctors helped him back on track. 

“Yes sir, my name is Shen Wei. I’m Zhao Yunlan’s neighbor.”

Zhao Yunlan’s father raised an eyebrow and looked mildly amused at his words. 

“You’re also helping with the trafficking case I heard.”

“Yes sir.”

“And you work at the hospital, correct?”

“Yes sir, I do.”

“And you’re dating my son?”

“Yes sir, I-” Shen Wei suddenly froze. What? “Uh, no sir. Your son and I are not in any sort of inappropriate relationship. We are simply neighbors and-”

“Whatever we are is none of your business dad. Stop harassing him. What are you even doing here? Are you stalking us?”

Yunlan’s father chuckled again. “Yunlan, this is a grocery store. I have come to get my groceries, just as you are.”

“Well, getting groceries doesn’t involve ambushing your son and his…friend. Now if you excuse us, we have to go home and make dinner. Have a lovely night, and I will see you at the next MPS meeting we have.” Zhao Yunlan looped his arm around Shen Wei’s and began dragging him away along with their cart. Shen Wei made an awkward bow to his father which was returned with another knowing smile. It almost sent a shiver down Shen Wei’s spine. The rest of the trip went by in silence. Shen Wei looked at Zhao Yunlan’s profile while he was driving them back home, but couldn’t discern any emotions. When he finally parked and was about to step out of the car, Shen Wei reached out to grab his arm. 

“Yunlan, are you okay?”

“Xiao Wei are we dating?” 

Shen Wei blinked. And then blinked again. 

“What?”

Zhao Yunlan let out a sigh so deep it seemed to come from his soul. “Look, we spend basically all our time together when we’re not working. And even when we are working, we’re texting each other. And when we’re not texting each other, I don’t know about you, but I’m constantly thinking about you. I used to hate mornings, and I still kind of do, but ever since we started eating breakfast together I actually like waking up.”

“Yunlan, I-”

“Not to mention we always eat together, either at one of our places or some restaurant outside. Shen Wei we even grocery shop together, like who even does that? I don’t think there’s a single moment that I’ve spent fully without you ever since I met you. In fact, I think there was one day where I didn't see or hear from you at all and I almost went insane.”

For a few moments, there was only silence in the car. Shen Wei didn’t know what to say. On one hand, this was Zhao Yunlan, the man he had a crush on since the moment he laid eyes on him. Zhao Yunlan was like the sun; he shone brightly and with so much brilliance he was blinding. Shen Wei would let hell freeze over before he dimmed that brilliance down. What if one day Zhao Yunlan woke up to believe that his life would be better without Shen Wei, that he wasted his time by pursuing him? Would Shen Wei be able to let Zhao Yunlan go? Would he be able to continue on with his life, knowing he would never be enough to have someone keep him?

Some of his apprehension must have shown on his face as the excitement in Zhao Yunlan’s face died down. The silence in the car was oppressive, and all Shen Wei wanted to do was run. 

“Yunlan, I, well-”

“It’s fine.”

“What?”

“It’s fine. I understand if I made you uncomfortable. I just thought, I hoped that you liked me too. But it’s okay that you don’t.” Zhao Yunlan looked like he tried his best to smile, but it only appeared as a grimace on his beautiful face. Before Shen Wei could reply, Zhao Yunlan stepped out of the car and walked towards the trunk to grab their groceries. 

Suddenly, Shen Wei felt like the worst person on Earth. He had a man he liked who liked him back, and what was he doing? Driving him away? That too, because of his insecurities. Shen Wei was afraid of dimming Zhao Yunlan’s brilliance, and in that moment, it became apparent that the only way he would accomplish that was by pushing Zhao Yunlan away. Before he understood what he was doing, he ran out of the car towards where Zhao Yunlan was. 

Zhao Yunlan’s dejected face looked up, and that cemented Shen Wei’s decision. Without thinking for one more second, he ran into Zhao Yunlan’s arms and wrapped him in the tightest hug he could muster, tucking his face into the crook of Zhao Yunlan’s neck and pressing a light kiss there. He heard Zhao Yunlan gasp and drop the bag of groceries he was holding. There was only a split second before he felt Zhao Yunlan’s arm wrap around him as well, trapping him there. Shen Wei didn’t know how long he stood there in Zhao Yunlan’s arms, not saying a word. Soon, he realized he had to verbalize what was in his heart. 

“Ah Lan?”

“Xiao Wei?”

“I don’t know if we were dating before, but I want to date you now.” He peeked his head out from Zhao Yunlan’s shoulder to face him. He wanted to show Zhao Yunlan how earnest he was, he didn’t want to hide anymore. “I’ve liked you for a while, I just didn’t know how to tell you. I think, I think I was fine before I met you. Truly I was fine. But then you came into my life, and I felt like I was actually happy.”

Zhao Yunlan let out a small chuckle before holding Shen Wei’s face between his hands. 

“Baobei, my sweet little imposition.”

And finally, Zhao Yunlan pressed his lips against Shen Wei’s swallowing the gasp he let out. It was sweet, and simple, and oh so very perfect. There was nowhere else Shen Wei would rather be, than in Zhao Yunlan’s arms being kissed.

Chapter Text

Shen Wei’s usual Saturday mornings would consist of waking up at 7.00 am, getting ready, eating breakfast, and catching up on the latest medical research. In the recent couple of weeks, those Saturday mornings were altered to accommodate his brunches with Zhao Yunlan. Shen Wei came to appreciate those brunches, as they included some well deserved down time from his daily responsibilities and listening to Zhao Yunlan’s ramblings about his underlings and how they didn’t respect him. 

What they did not usually include was him, sitting in Zhao Yunlan’s lap while eating. 

The day began normally, albeit with some nervousness from Shen Wei. After all, this was their first brunch after their impromptu confession. Was this a date? Would they kiss again? Multiple questions plagued Shen Wei until he heard the usual knock on his door, signaling that Zhao Yunlan was here. When Shen Wei opened his door, he was greeted with the sight of Zhao Yunlan’s smiling face. He only had a split second to greet him before Zhao Yunlan stepped into his space and grabbed hold of his waist. He ducked his head down as Zhao Yunlan leaned down and captured his lips in a kiss. 

They kissed slowly and unhurriedly, using it as an excuse to explore each other's mouths. Shen Wei felt Zhao Yunlan nip at his lip which caused him to gasp in surprise, which only spurred Zhao Yunlan to slip his tongue in. Shen Wei felt like putty in his new partner’s hands, and he had to actively hold himself up. Zhao Yunlan’s grip on his waist tightened, and Shen Wei moved his hands to his hair, giving into the temptation of playing with those beloved locks. He could feel Zhao Yunlan smiling against his lips, which caused him to smile as well. Finally, they broke apart, but didn’t move out of each other’s space. It was Zhao Yunlan who finally broke the silence. 

“Good morning Baobei.” His voice had a particular lilt to it, and it made something burn in Shen Wei’s core. 

“Good morning Yunlan. Did you sleep well?”

Zhao Yunlan smirked and Shen Wei had the distinct feeling that the next words out of his mouth would be inappropriate. 

“Not at all, I dreamed of you and of all the activities we could do now that we're actually dating and all it did was raise my heart rate so much I woke up.”

Shen Wei blanched. “Well, you should take something for that, excessive palpitations are no joking matter.”

“You’re the doctor, I’m sure you’ll think of some way to help me out.” With that, Zhao Yunlan finally let go of Shen Wei’s waist and sauntered over to the kitchen, already knowing which dishes to place on the table. Shen Wei quickly collected his bearings and also walked over to finish setting the table. As he walked around Zhao Yunlan who was already sitting down in his designated chair, he felt something grab his wrist and haul him down. 

That was how he found himself in Zhao Yunlan’s lap. 

“Zhao Yunlan?”

“Yes baobei?”

“Yunlan you shameless man.”

“Xiao Wei, my sweet, I’ve been wanting to get my hands on you for weeks now. You wouldn’t deny a desperate man would you?” He pecked Shen Wei on his forehead, and Shen Wei realized he really couldn’t deny Zhao Yunlan. He settled further into his lap and wrapped his arms around Zhao Yunlan’s neck. Zhao Yunlan seemed surprised at Shen Wei’s boldness for a split second before wrapping his arms around Shen Wei once more. 

They spent the rest of the morning like that, with Zhao Yunlan feeding Shen Wei. Shen Wei couldn’t remember the last time he had felt so much at peace, and he felt as if his heart had grown three sizes. When they finished breakfast, they both went to wash the dishes, with Shen Wei needed to bat away Zhao Yunlan’s groping hands,

“Yunlan you’re going to get soap on my pants!”

“Oh? You should take them off then. Here, I’ll help you.”

“Zhao Yunlan you heathen!”

“Sorry, sorry!” Zhao Yunlan laughed and didn’t look the least bit sorry. Shen Wei pointedly rolled his eyes at him which only set off Zhao Yunlan’s laughing fit again. Once the dishes were all put away, they went to the couch, where instead of sitting in his respective cushion, Zhao Yunlan decided to lay down with his head in Shen Wei’s lap. Shen Wei stroked his fingers through Zhao Yunlan’s hair, and remembered a moment when he imagined himself in this exact situation. It was fascinating how it came true. 

“I called my dad last night.”

“Oh?"

“Yeah, I told him that he was right and we were dating, but I still didn’t appreciate the ambush.”

“Hmm. It was a bit surprising. How are you feeling?”

“I thought you’d ask me what he said.”

“The only thing that concerns me in this situation is how you’re feeling.”

Zhao Yunlan smiled and swiped his thumb down the bridge of Shen Wei’s nose and chuckled when Shen Wei scrunched his face. “You know, I think you might just be the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“Likewise Ah Lan.”

“Just for that, I feel great actually. I’m dating the smart and beautiful man I’ve had my eyes on for weeks, and even the case is looking up!”

“That's reassuring, I’ll be able to rest easier knowing you’re no longer pursuing a dangerous criminal.”

“Aww, is my Xiao Wei worried?”

“Yes, I am.”

“How sweet.”

They stayed in comfortable silence for a bit, but of course Zhao Yunlan could not let it be that way for long. 

“Xiao Wei, I’m worried about you too you know”

“Why? Is Gu Shengyan a threat to me as well?”

“No, I can protect you from him. I’m more worried about that Dr. Wu you work with.”

“What? Why? Please don’t tell me he has connections to human traffickers.”

“No, he just is trying to make connections with you.”

“Excuse me?”

“My sweet Xiao Wei, you’re a compassionate man who tries to see the best in everyone. Dr. Wu has a crush on you, and I refuse to let him steal you away.”

“Ah Lan he’s basically my boss, he doesn’t have a crush on me. He’s just being nice.”

“Then answer me this, why does he only buy you coffee and not Dr. Cheng or Dr. Ying?”

“That’s because- wait a second, how do you know that?”

“Oh, I might’ve asked both of them about you and ways to woo you a couple weeks ago. They were very receptive to me now that I think about it.”

“What the hell?” That explained the cryptic conversation he had with them when he first moved into his new apartment. They were conspiring against him this entire time!

“I’m sorry but you seemed very unattainable at first. Lucky for me I’m persistent.”

“You mean shameless.”

“No, I definitely mean persistent.”

Shen Wei only raised his eyebrows and scoffed when Zhao Yunlan responded in a laugh. 

“Fine, ask Dr. Ying and Dr. Cheng tonight when you go to work. It’s a bet.”

“What are you betting?”

“Good question. If Dr. Wu doesn’t have a crush on you, that means you win and you can choose the location of our first official date. If he does that means I’ll pick.”

“Deal.”

Later that night, when Shen Wei went to work, he remembered to ask Dr. Ying and Dr. Cheng about their opinions on Dr. Wu’s behavior towards him. After being haggled about his new relationship with Zhao Yunlan, they finally answered. It turned out that Dr. Wu had developed feelings for Shen Wei a while ago, when he was still a second year resident and Dr. Wu had just transferred to the hospital. The early morning coffees and occasional sweet treats were not given out of his magnanimity as his boss, but rather as an ode to his unrequited feelings. Shen Wei felt bad for Dr. Wu, but that was just the way the cookie crumbled. He made a note to subtly bring up his relationship with Zhao Yunlan the next time he saw the man. 

When work finally ended, Shen Wei hurried out of the hospital. Zhao Yunlan wouldn’t be picking him up because of an early morning meeting so Shen Wei had to run to catch the bus. As he walked through the parking lot, he felt a sharp, searing pain on the back of his head. He put his hand against the spot of pain and felt thick, viscous fluid. He turned around to see a tall man covered in scars holding a long metal rod, and promptly, the world went dark.

Chapter Text

When Shen Wei awoke, it was to a damp stench that permeated through the walls. At first glance, he could tell he was in some sort of run down warehouse. How original. His arms, legs, and torso were bound with a coarse rope that tied him down to a rusty chair. He only had two concerns at the moment: the possibility of tetanus, and the safety of Zhao Yunlan. 

It was obvious what had occurred; Gu Shengyan was catching on. Who else would have the motive or the resources to kidnap Shen Wei from the hospital. But then again, was he really so stupid as to kidnap a well known doctor from right in front of the hospital? Shen Wei used this time to take stock of his situation. He could feel his pounding headache buildup right from the location of where he was struck, but it felt like something was pressing against it, so someone must have patched him up, at least lightly. That was good. That meant they wouldn’t kill him immediately, and he would at least have some time to stall. Zhao Yunlan was also expecting him home, and if he didn’t show up on time, hopefully he would investigate. Until then, Shen Wei would have to try to protect himself. 

“Ah, look who’s awake.” Shen Wei tried to crane his neck to see who the voice belonged to. All he saw was a young man with a hideous streak of purple hair smirking at him. “I was beginning to think I killed you. Pity.”

Shen Wei stayed silent. It wouldn’t do to provoke his kidnapper. 

“I would introduce myself, but you already know who I am.”

“Pardon? I’m sorry but I don’t know who you are.”

The kidnapper seemed stuck in place and turned with an incredulous expression. “You don’t know me?”

“No, sorry I don’t.”

“I’m Zhu Jiu!”

“Okay?.”

Zhu Jiu seemed stupefied. “I’m Zhu Jiu! Gu Shengyan’s right hand man!”

“Oh, I see.”

That seemed to set Zhu Jiu off, as he came barreling towards Shen Wei and slapped his cheek. It didn’t injure him in a way that would bruise, but it stung. Shen Wei tried to hold his cheek to stop the stinging but his hands were still tied. 

“If you don’t want to get hurt again I suggest you cooperate and answer my questions.”

“I’ll try my best.” That apparently wasn’t the best answer, as Zhu Jiu slapped him again. 

“You will answer all my questions! Now tell me, what do you know about Boss?”

“I know his name and that he’s wanted by the police. I only helped them identify his face, and that too because I treated him in the ER.”

“Good. What do you know about the investigation?”

“They didn’t give me any information after I identified him.”

Another slap. 

“Let me ask you again. What do you know about the investigation?” Zhu Jiu walked towards a corner while he asked the question. Shen Wei’s heart beat began to pick up. He could tell Zhu Jiu was only a small fry in Gu Shengyan’s business. Despite that, this boy was on a power trip and was taking it out on Shen Wei. He didn’t know when anyone would find him, but he clearly had less time than he initially assumed. 

“I told you, I’m only a witness. They didn’t tell me anything.” Shen Wei heard a scrape on the ground that sounded like metal dragging against the pavement. Shit. Zhu Jiu turned back around holding a hollow metal rod, and walked back into Shen Wei’s space. 

“I don’t like that answer.” Zhu Jiu ended his sentence with a sharply aimed smack to Shen Wei’s calves. Shen Wei attempted to double over from the pain coursing through his legs, but he was still tied to the chair. Still, he refused to scream. There was no way he would give this scum of a human the satisfaction of knowing he caused him pain. 

The next hour continued with the same treatment. Shen Wei was covered in his blood and sweat, but he felt a deep sense of glee knowing Zhu Jiu was also covered in sweat and was beginning to lose his motivation. Shen Wei refused to open his mouth except to tell him that he knew next to nothing about the investigation. Zhu Jiu went to have a seat at a low table on the side and drink water. Shen Wei heard the creaking of the main door and looked up. Shit. This was Gu Shengyan. 

The man looked exactly as he had all those weeks ago in the ER. The only difference was that his leg seemed mostly healed, and the expression on his face could only be called predatory. 

“Dr. Shen! What a pleasure to see you again!” 

Shen Wei didn’t say anything. He couldn’t even look, much less talk to this monster. Shen Wei remembered every thing he had heard about him and his crimes, and he felt the bile buildup in his throat.

“Not a talker? That’s alright, you seem preoccupied. Zhu Jiu, why don’t you take a break while I speak with our dear guest here?”

“Yes boss.” Zhu Jiu only smirked at Shen Wei while Gu Shengyan advanced on him. “What do you know about the police investigation? I know you’d have to be aware of some insider information considering your, ahem, relationship with the chief?”

Fuck. Gu Shengyan knew about his relationship with Zhao Yunlan. What else did he know?

“As I have made it very clear to your employee here, I don’t know anything. I only identified you to the police and that is all.”

Gu Shengyan made an exaggerated pout. “That can’t be true. Let’s try again now shall we, this time with some new tools.” Gu Shengyan walked to the table by Zhu Jiu and pulled out a box. He opened the box, and Shen Wei could see multiple tools gleaming in the low light. “I’d appreciate if you gave us something before I have to use these on you Dr. Shen.” He pulled out some sort of long wrench and tapped it on the table. Shen Wei needed to think of something, and fast. 

It was at this moment that Shen Wei heard the low sound of multiple footsteps coming in from the side. He turned to Zhu Jiu and Gu Shengyan to see if they noticed as well, but they didn’t have any noticeable reactions. Shen Wei still refused to let his guard down; those footsteps could belong to anyone. Gu Shengyan was still walking towards him with that damned wrench in his hands. 

Suddenly, the main door slammed open and a few men in bullet proof vests entered with their guns pointed at the criminals. Gu Shengyan tried to run towards Shen Wei, but he was too slow - someone shot him in the leg. 

Zhao Yunlan. 

Gu Shengyan cried out in pain while Zhu Jiu tried to make a run for the open window, but he was also too slow. He was tackled to the ground by someone else and immediately placed in handcuffs. Multiple other officers ran towards Gu Shengyan and placed him in handcuffs as well. Shen Wei felt a pressure on his shoulder and flinched, but noticed it was Zhao Yunlan.

Finally, finally, Shen Wei sagged in his chair. His Zhao Yunlan was here. He was going to be okay. Zhao Yunlan wasted no time in untying the ropes around Shen Wei. 

“Baobei? Baobei, are you with me? Everything’s going to be okay I promise.”

Shen Wei could only let out a sluggish yes, and put his head against Zhao Yunlan’s shoulder. Zhao Yunlan carded his fingers through Shen Wei’s hair. “Fuck baobei I’m so sorry I was late.”

“But you’re here now.”

“Yes, but I should have been here sooner.” Zhao Yunlan placed a light kiss against Shen Wei’s temple and continued to murmur encouragements and apologies in his ear. Shen Wei was in a lot of pain, but in this moment, he was fine. 

The next few minutes passed by with a flurry of excitement that Shen Wei only briefly caught. Zhu Jiu and Gu Shengyan were taken into a police car with multiple officers crowding around them. An ambulance came to take Shen Wei to the hospital, and he could see Zhao Yunlan argue with the paramedics for a bit on whether he could ride with him. It took Shen Wei shooing him away to send him off in his own car. Though he was alone in the ambulance, Shen Wei knew Zhao Yunlan was close by. With that thought, he finally closed his eyes and began to rest.

Chapter Text

A few days later, Shen Wei lay in the hospital bed while eating some orange slices from Zhao Yunlan’s hand. Any attempts to convince his boyfriend to go home and get some rest were promptly shut down with either a soft glare or a kiss, so Shen Wei stopped trying. After all, he never put up much of a fight anyway; anything to spend more time with Zhao Yunlan. 

His musings were cut short by his hospital door swinging open and a very harried looking Ye Zun walking in. For a second, there was only silence in the room as the three occupants stared at each other. 

“Who the fuck are you?” Of course Ye Zun was the one to break the silence. 

“I’m Xiao Wei’s boyfriend, who the fuck are you?”

“I am very obviously his twin brother. So you’re the one who dragged my brother into this mess! Ge, get this heathen out of here he’s only going to stress you out more!”

“Didi, please calm down.”

“Calm down! Don’t tell me to calm down when you’re laying in a hospital bed looking like you’re three steps away from death’s door. I leave you alone for a few months and you go out and get yourself involved with a gang and an incompetent police officer who can’t be bothered to protect the man he says he’s involved with.”

“Ye Zun! Please, just come and sit next to me for a few minutes.”

At that, Ye Zun finally deflated a bit and sat next to his brother, occasionally sending seething glares in Zhao Yunlan’s direction. He glared at Shen Wei as well but there was no true venom and any anger was undercut by the fact that he grabbed Shen Wei’s hand and refused to let go. 

“Didi, no one forced me to get involved in anything. If you would like to be angry at anyone, please direct that anger towards the criminal that went after me. And Zhao Yunlan is not incompetent, I’m only alive thanks to him. I understand you’re upset but please relax.”

Ye Zun stayed silent for a few seconds, looking like he was actually processing what Shen Wei said. Shen Wei knew his brother, he would listen to him. Sometimes. 

“Fine, but don’t expect me to approve of your little monkey.”

“I don’t expect you to.” This time, it was Zhao Yunlan who spoke up. “But don’t expect me to like you either.”

Shen Wei sighed. Truly, it seemed like he only seemed to attract the strangest of people into his life. 

The next few days passed by with the continued presence of Zhao Yunlan and Ye Zun, who refused to leave until Shen Wei was fully recovered. He even entertained some visits from his extremely worried colleagues, and surprisingly, Zhao Yunlan’s father who seemed to treat him quite pleasantly, despite the suspicious glances Zhao Yunlan kept sending his way.

When the day came for Shen Wei to be discharged, Ye Zun went ahead to prepare his apartment for him while Zhao Yunlan stayed behind to take him home. 

While they were in the car, Shen Wei realized this was the first time they were truly alone since the whole ordeal. 

“I hope you don’t mind Ye Zun, I know he can be a bit…much, at times.”

Zhao Yunlan only laughed. “Hey, it’s only right to have a crazy future brother in law to make up for a perfect husband.” He continued laughing, as if he hadn’t just upended Shen Wei’s world.

“H-husband?”

Zhao Yunlan turned to look at Shen Wei as they pulled into the apartment’s parking lot. “Sweetheart, I love you. Don’t think I’m proposing to you, because I don’t want people to call me insane and try to talk me out of marrying you and I also want to enjoy our relationship every step of the way, but know that I’m serious. I love you and you’ll never ever be rid of me.”

Shen Wei felt himself tear up. He knew Zhao Yunlan loved him, it was very obvious over the past few days. But this, to promise himself to Shen Wei for the rest of their lives. It was something he didn’t expect.”

“Aw come on Xiao Wei, I know I’m not the most ideal match but you can’t start crying about our future together.”

Shen Wei launched himself at Zhao Yunlan and held on tight. “You shameless man. I love you, I love you so much.”