Hands on Me

It never occurred to Lan Wangji that his entire life was so monotonous that it could be altered in just a single moment. For so long, stability was a staple part of his growth the same way ballet was. Consistency was in all things, from their 5am waking time, to rehearsals, to keeping the walls of the Cloud Recesses never dulled, never stained, always the same color- always strong.

Of course, this last one was due to his uncle’s insistence that GusuLan’s Cloud Recesses ballet studio be kept in utmost condition, never belying just how hard its occupants worked, or that they were ever even there. The two-story building was full of light blue and pristine white walls, forming a perimeter around large mirrors, a sturdy barre, and light brown wooden floors inside of the studios. The first floor was for younger and more amateur students to practice, with disciples working hard to provide proper levelled teachings for all ages and all commitment levels. The second floor was reserved for the more learned, practiced students, as well as the professionals of the company. Right now, that included Lan Wangji and Lan Xichen, the apples of Lan Qiren’s eye, the money makers of his company, and more famously referred to as the ‘Twin Jades of Lan’.

Lan Xichen, the elder, was always the more amenable and popular of the two, achieving his first breakout role at age 18 in Don Quixote. Known for his sweet demeanor yet cutthroat competitiveness, and his magnificent range, critics lauded his ability to “bring a sort of playful romance to any role, his movements fluid, natural as breathing, yet perfect every time”. Lan Wangji took only a little longer, landing Siegfried in Swan Lake by age 19. While critics were intimidated by his coolly efficient demeanor, they adored Lan Wangji’s technique. “His sharpness of motion was crisp, yet evoked such passion- he is untouchable, and makes the audience yearn for him with every step”.

While Lan Wangji still has a low burning passion for performance, at age 30 he has found that he is surprisingly more content giving private lessons to the older students. Part of this may be due to the ease of teaching Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi, his latest protégés and the Cloud Recesses’ up and coming superstars. While he has always been cordial to the students in his past, he has found that the dynamic between these two inspires him to keep on his toes- literally. Still, even with teaching, Lan Wangji’s life is…constant.

Stable.

Unchanging.

Dull.

Squashing that last thought down, he is leading extra stretches when a small knock echoes into the room. Lan Xichen smiles, entering.

“Didi, I hope class is going well. I hate to interrupt, but Uncle is waiting in his office. He has something to tell us before he leaves.”

Nodding, Lan Wangji turns to the two students. “Take a short break after the stretches, and then return to the choreography.”

He follows Lan Xichen back into the gleaming blue office, large windows overlooking the rolling hills in the back of the studio. His uncle is still sitting, dwarfed behind a large, Victorian black desk. Everything else in the room is austere and minimal, so it’s clear to see that Lan Qiren indulged a little in this gargantuan piece of furniture.

“Xichen. Wangji.” The curt greeting is followed by the snapping shut of a briefcase. “As you are aware, I will be leaving right after this conversation to make my flight.” This is not news, Lan Wangji thinks. Lan Qiren will be on a two-month excursion out of the country, studying other ballet companies and their tours as a respected critic and historian in the field. They’ve known this for months. His uncle never minces words, so surely this isn’t the point of the conversation.

“What I am just now able to confirm to you,” he says, disdain at the lateness clear, “is that one of the upstairs studios has been rented for the next few weeks. An old associate of mine, Jiang Fengmian, needs somewhere for his son’s dance troupe to practice while Lotus Pier Dance Hall is being rebuilt.”

Lan Xichen and Lan Wangji both frown. Lotus Pier Dance Hall, amongst other studios, had been vandalized before being set ablaze. While it was fortunate that no one had been inside, the entire place was no longer safe or usable. The only good part was that, while the fire spread, the building hadn’t collapsed- allowing for investigation of the arson.

“While I do not necessarily approve of their style- street, hip hop, and pop, that sort of thing- Jiang Fengmian is a respected associate of mine, a true patron of the arts. It is gracious of us to offer him what aid we can in this trying time.”

Lan Wangji can’t help but think that another reason for the quick acquiescence is that he will conveniently be gone the entirety of the visit.

“If there are any problems, I am leaving judgment in both of your capable hands. If any of the other students’ classes and learning are disrupted and you cannot handle it, I will have no issue contacting Jiang Fengmian myself. I hope it does not get to that point.”

Lan Xichen bows slightly, placating the budding anxiety. “It is no worry, Uncle. We will be gracious hosts. Now, let’s get you to your car so that you aren’t late.”

Grumbling any leftover rules, Lan Qiren allows Lan Xichen to lead him down the stairs and out of the building. Lan Wangji goes to the bathrooms, and a few minutes later is washing his hands when he hears bickering outside in the hall. Jingyi? He’d left his pupils to practice- why were they in the hall?

Jingyi has a finger pointed in the reddened face of another teenager in yellow t-shirt and workout tights, Sizhui trying to placate them both.

“I don’t know who you are, but you can’t come practice ballet in that!”

“First of all, these are designer leggings- this dump should be honored I’d step inside wearing them!”

“Dump?! I ought to strangle you-”

Before Jingyi and the yellow-shirted teenager can jump at each other’s throats, another man steps in between them, quickly tossing the teen to the side.

“Now, Jin Ling! Play nice!” His silver eyes sparkle with mischief as Jin Ling gawks in indignation. “Besides, you wanted people to check you out in your outfit, and this young man did! It’s a win-win!”

Lan Jingyi looks like he’s going to die and ascend he’s so furious at this stranger’s words, and Lan Wangji is not far behind him. Whoever he was, it was clear that this stranger was not a good influence. He approaches quickly, frowning. The stranger double takes when he sees him, his jaw dropping momentarily, before he gathers himself and smiles flirtatiously.

“Well, hello, you.”

Lan Wangji only glares disdainfully at the hand being held out. “If you are here to inquire about classes for your son, I must ask that-”

“Son? Oh! Jin Ling?” The stranger tosses his head back, cackling. “Oh no, that’s not what this is at all! We’re practicing here, for a few weeks?”

Lan Wangji blanches as ‘Wei Wuxian!’ is shouted from down the stairs, followed by an angry faced man holding equipment.

“We need your help, stop playing games! Get down here and grab something!”

The stranger- Wei Wuxian- rolls his eyes and pouts obnoxiously, slouching. “But Jiang Cheng, look at me. I’m busy making political relations with our host! This is…” he trails off, turning back to an appalled Lan Wangji.

“Our teacher, Hanguang Jun, a Twin Jade of Lan, Lan Wangji,” answers Lan Sizhui proudly. To Sizhui’s shock and Jingyi’s anguish, the stranger seems unfazed by the titles.  

“A Twin Jade of Lan, huh! A lofty title for a handsome man, I’m sure. Well, Lan Wangji, it’s nice to meet you- I look forward to seeing you everyday!” With a wink, he turns and sashays back down the stairs. It’s just as well as Lan Xichen returns, amused at the choked look on Lan Wangji’s face.

“Wangji, this is the YunmengJiang dance crew that Uncle just told us about? They plan to have later practices in the day, which works to not interrupt the other classes, and they’re moving things in today to prepare.”

Brother, no. Not this. The pleading in Lan Wangji’s eyes was almost so noticeable someone else might have been able to see it if they looked closely. Still, Lan Xichen only grinned.

“It’s okay, Wangji. This place could use some liveliness.” His words were punctuated by something large falling in the stairway, followed by a deluge of curses. Lan Xichen only closed his eyes, inhaled, and cleared his face. “Let’s get out of their way for now, and when they’re finished, we can go properly introduce ourselves, hm?”

Lan Wangji didn’t want to introduce himself. If it was anything like meeting ‘Jin Ling’ and ‘Wei Wuxian’, he wanted them far away from his studio. They made too much noise.

“No excessive noise in the Cloud Recesses,” Lan Wangji mumbles petulantly, and Lan Xichen sighs.

“Oh, didi. We must try. It’s only been a few minutes, give it a chance.”

Half an hour later, after Lan Wangji forced Sizhui and Jingyi to join him in ‘required meditations’, there was no more chaos happening in the halls. Instead, the studio down the hall is alive with discussion, noise ricocheting down to them. When he finally dismisses the class, Lan Xichen is there and ready with more information about their ‘guests’.

They were the YunmengJiang dance crew, formerly located at Lotus Pier Dance Hall. Their focuses were hip hop, pop, hiplet (a combination of hip hop and ballet), and an eclectic mix of anything else that they wanted to dance to. They were relatively new to the dance world but were taking it by storm with their bold choreography, fervent dedication, and a very well-rounded team crafted for success.

“Let’s go introduce ourselves. The boys can come too- perhaps we can make a better impression than the first time.” Jingyi quails at Lan Xichen’s purposefully raised eyebrow- it was clear he expected better behavior from both his student and his little brother. Begrudgingly, he follows as they make their way back to Studio B, knocking lightly before entering. Even the familiar studio looked completely transformed- multi-colored mats were all over the floor, with jackets, clothes, shoes, chairs, and other equipment laid haphazardly around the room. The only space untouched by anything was the space in the middle, which must have been wide enough for their routines.

When they entered the room, the talking died down a little, everyone facing them with interest. Lan Wangji tried not to feel uncomfortable- he was a master ballet danseur, he was used to eyes on him, dealing with these strangers should not be this difficult.

“Hello, everyone!” Lan Xichen’s smooth voice is met with quiet greetings. “I just wanted to make proper introductions now that you all are moved in. My name is Lan Xichen, I am the elder nephew of Lan Qiren, and will be running the Cloud Recesses ballet studio while he’s traveling. This is my younger brother, Lan Wangji- both of us teach the professional classes here, as well as practice for our own performances. Our pupils here are Lan Jingyi and Lan Sizhui. We are all truly happy to make your acquaintance.”

The angry man from earlier steps forward, shaking hands with Lan Xichen. He is wearing clothes like Jin Ling, only they are purple and more properly fit the well-built man.

“My father, and all of us, thank you and your Uncle for his hospitality. My name is Jiang Wanyin, though you can call me Jiang Cheng. I am the leader of the YunmengJiang crew, and eventual owner of the Lotus Pier Dance Hall.”

Jiang Cheng makes the rounds in the room. He starts with the professional dancers. Luo Qingyang (‘call me Mianmian!’) sits on her yellow and pink floral mat, stretching. Wen Qing and Wen Ning, the siblings, sit on red and white mats. Wen Qing’s greeting is succinct, noting that while she was a dancer, she was also their resident physical therapist. Wen Ning softly bumbles through his greeting, almost so shy it seems like it hurts. Lan Wangji wonders at how such a soft voice could come out of such a large man, and how someone so shy could be on such a bold team.

In the corner near the speakers and aux cord primly sits Jiang Yanli, Jiang Cheng’s jiejie. While she is an artist in her own right as a singer, she chooses to oversee music and aids her brother in the logistics of running the hall. Her husband, Jin Zixuan, isn’t a part of the team at all- he’s just there to support Jiang Yanli, and to pay for the snacks she provides. Their 13-year-old son, Jin Ling, is a younger ‘unofficial’ member of the team. They hope to extend to teaching classes and such, so he’s a guinea pig right now. Nie Huaisang, sitting in a green hoodie and gray leg cast matching his green and gray sitting chair, is their social media guru and style coordinator. His knowing eyes flit dramatically back and forth behind his phone, which is always in his hand.

The shameless one from earlier- Wei Wuxian- is missing from the group. Lan Wangji is saved from having to say anything when Lan Xichen speaks up.

“Wasn’t there one more of you? I swore I saw him earlier-”

“I’m here!”

Standing in a bright red t-shirt, some joggers, and blood red platform heels, beams Wei Wuxian. He dashes over in the shoes, ponytail bobbing and undaunted, to Lan Xichen.

“I met you both earlier! Sorry, I had to go to the bathroom. It’s a little difficult in these sometimes-”

“Wei Wuxian!” Jiang Cheng looks apoplectic, that earlier calm completely gone. He grabs Wei Wuxian’s ear, yanking it.

“Ow, A-Cheng! You’re so mean to your older brother!”

“You’re no brother of mine! How dare you miss introductions with our hosts! Do you even know who we’re dealing with? Have you no shame!?”

“Well, I can’t control having to pee, Jiang Cheng-”

While they bicker, Nie Huaisang speaks up. “Wei Wuxian is also one of the dancers and is the adopted sibling of Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli. They’re the ones that design the choreography. He’s a little shameless, for sure, but is smart and incredibly talented. So, you don’t have to worry too much about him.”

Wei Wuxian coos from under Jiang Cheng’s headlock. “Aw, A-Sang! You truly love me!”

“I do, I do!”

“But,” Wei Wuxian continues, eyes locking with Lan Wangji’s, “I don’t think I’m as incredibly talented as the Twin Jades of Lan! I looked you both up, really quickly in the bathroom- Lan Wangji, you dance as gorgeous as you look!”

Jiang Cheng groans outwardly, Lan Wangji only glaring back coldly as he willed his ears to cool down at once. Lan Xichen places a calming hand on Lan Wangji, before thanking Wei Wuxian for the sentiments. It can’t possibly be over any sooner as they all depart, allowing the noise in the room to pick up behind them. Lan Wangji only wants to go home as soon as possible. Surely, he’s only flushed due to fury at the shamelessness of the dancer. Not his flirtatious compliment. Not the intelligent silver eyes behind the grinning goofiness. And certainly not the tempting image of what Wei Wuxian looked like with those heels-

No, he was fine, and it couldn’t be too soon before the YunmengJiang crew went back home, and he could get back to his peaceful daily life. How could he have ever questioned against it?  

Wei Wuxian absolutely refused to let him have any peace.

A little over a week later, Lan Wangji is finishing up a late practice with Sizhui and Jingyi. Despite their strong talents and commitment, it was clear that they were becoming curious about what was happening in the other studio, whispering when they thought Lan Wangji couldn’t hear. Multiple times he had to remind them that there was no gossip in the Cloud Recesses from their students. Of course, every time it seemed like they were getting into a flow, bright eyes would poke into the room, watching their every move. Every now and then, in between sets, Wei Wuxian would ask a question or comment, and it took everything in Lan Wangji not to collar the man. For days it had been:

“You dance very well, Lan Wangji!”

“How long have you been practicing? Your body control is amazing!”

“Wow! That’s awesome!”

“What is that jump called? It looks easy enough, kind of fun! I’d love to put it in a routine!”

(It was called a grand jeté en tournant, not that Lan Wangji replied, and he sincerely doubted this undisciplined wretch understood the amount of practice and technique that went behind ballet in general to call it ‘easy enough’. That had been a bad day.)

Finally, he’s summoned to his own practice, and Lan Wangji lets out a minute sigh.

“Hanguang Jun?” Sizhui gently asks. Lan Wangji nods. “He seemed very sad that you weren’t answering his questions.”

“He was also staring,” Jingyi adds. “It was a little weird, but I think he was impressed!”

“He was interrupting class. No distractions. If it means so much to him, I will answer him later.” Lan Wangji doesn’t consider himself a liar, but he finds himself trying to rationalize these words. Wei Wuxian never actually returns for an answer, so it can’t mean so much to him that Lan Wangji must reply. Besides, he’s not blind- he could feel those curious, impertinent eyes burning into him. It’s strange- he’s used to stares, used to critiques, but he’s not sure what it is he’s feeling from Wei Wuxian, and it irritates him.

He ends their class, and is ready to pack his things when Lan Xichen offers to show the boys what is happening in Studio B. “I figured you both were curious?”

Sizhui and Jingyi immediately perk up, accepting the invitation.

“Oh, and Wangji? I need you to follow me.”

The betrayal stinging in Lan Wangji’s heart is like that of walking through a thousand rose bushes. His brother knew he wouldn’t leave if he thought there was a duty to be fulfilled- of course he used that, instead of offering Lan Wangji the option to see (and decline) the YunmengJiang crew perform. He knows his little brother too well. They all pause at the one-way mirror, peering inside.

Once again, the room is full of mats, bags, water bottles and chairs. Chaotic and full of color, laughter, and teasing, it’s so far off from the Cloud Recesses aesthetic that Lan Wangji begins to wonder if he’d honestly ever seen the world in any colors other than blue, white, and gray. Lan Xichen kindly points out everyone again. Jiang Yanli is at the aux cord, holding the phone with their playlists. Jin Zixuan and Jin Ling are next to her, Jin Zixuan looking at some business on his phone. The dancers are in various states of dress, already stretched, so everyone is limbered up and ready to go. Jiang Cheng is in full leggings and a tight purple compression shirt, clearly well paid for. Wen Ning and Wen Qing are both in crimson red, though Wen Ning is wearing baggy sweats while Wen Qing is in red shorts. Mianmian is in her pastels again, and Nie Huaisang also looks the same, perched in his chair.

They all begin to make way, and when Lan Wangji turns around, he almost wants to race away from the room. Wei Wuxian struts forward into the middle of the room, wearing those same five-inch red platform heels from the first time they’d met. It’s followed by black tight shorts that reach midthigh, and a loose red V-neck shirt that shows off strong collarbones and arms. The man is gorgeous, and he knows it, hair swaying this way and that as he stretches in the middle. Lan Wangji swallows- he much preferred the rage in his heart, rather than whatever is occurring right now.

“Xichen, the boys-”

“Ah! Wangji, you’re right.”

Lan Xichen turns to Sizhui and Jingyi, whose minds are already blown by the culture difference in the room. “Boys, remember. Look respectfully. Appreciate the art, culture and technique.”

Lan Wangji could scream.

“We can’t see clear enough, though. I’m going in.” Lan Jingyi goes to open the door, and Lan Wangji is too late to grab him. Everyone stares at the door, and Lan Xichen gracefully enters behind Jingyi.

“I apologize for the interruption; we have some students who’d love to see some of your work. They’ve never seen anything like this practiced at the Cloud Recesses.”

They all giggle in understanding. When Lan Wangji enters the room behind Sizhui, Wei Wuxian’s eyes widen, and his light smile deepens. Lan Wangji could almost consider the expression bashful, and he looks up from under his lashes, Lan Wangji turns away.

“You chose quite the one to walk in on today, but okay.” Wen Qing capitulates, biting her lip to hide the smile. Nie Huaisang, clapping in his hands with glee, gestures next to him for them to sit down.

Jin Zixuan raises his hand. “Um, does no one think this one is a little inappropriate for kids? My baby boy is here.”

Jin Ling squawks, flushing red as Jingyi snickers behind his hand. “I’ve seen it before, Dad! It’s fine, gosh!” He waves Sizhui and Jingyi over. “They can sit next to me.”

“Aw, he’s trying to make friends. Good for him, he needs some.” Mianmian coos as both boys dash over to sit with Jin Ling.  

Jiang Cheng glares at Wei Wuxian, who is now glancing away nonchalantly. “I don’t know what you’re thinking right now in that shithead of yours, but you better not get us kicked out of here!”

“Oh, boo Jiang Cheng.” Nie Huaisang waves his hands. “Yass, Wei Wuxian! Everybody back up, don’t lose an eye when he puts those shoes on!”

Wei Wuxian seems to snap out of whatever thoughts he’s having and turns to Jiang Yanli. “Shijie, I’m ready!”

“Of course, A-Xian.” Wei Wuxian walks to the center of the room and poses, one arm hung behind his head and the other placed lightly and suggestively on his stomach, his entire body going still. The room hushes, all previous energy centering on him. Lan Wangji’s heart is pounding with an anticipation he hasn’t felt watching someone else in a long time.

The opening beats of Ariana Grande’s Hands on Me come on and he begins to sway his hips to a 2/4 beat, slower than the upbeat pop rhythm would suggest.

Keep your hands on me

Don't take them off until I say so

Let me break you off

We'll be taking off

Or maybe making love

You just keep your eyes on my you know what

Just before the beat drops, he sends a flirtatious wink Lan Wangji’s way, before his face clears, focused on his art. The beginning steps of his dance are simultaneously sharp and fluid, and in that moment, Lan Wangji can see why Wei Wuxian respected his body control- his own is almost perfect, the moves seeming effortless. During the first verse, he stays in one spot on the floor, yet he takes advantage of the space he’s in with his entire body, kicking, stepping, body-rolling. The chorus kicks in, and they all look on as his movements seamlessly transition from following the bottom beat to incorporating the melody.

Eyes on me, dance on me tonight

You're all, all on me

Keep your hands on me

Don't take them off

Put your hands on it

Wei Wuxian struts across the floor as ‘put your hands on it’ repeats, his body writhing this way and that, being touched by an entire crowd of desirous people though the only hands on his body are his own. It’s crazed, suggestive, seductive-

Look respectfully, he reminds himself. Eyes on the art!

Lan Wangji is fighting that unfamiliar feeling from before again- that feeling that came with those unnecessary, gorgeous blood red heels. He tries to identify it, to critique it in an objective way. He’s used to classical movements, the danseur or ballerina being lofty, idealized and untouchable, providing something to watch and a story to translate. But this- Wei Wuxian’s passionate dancing manages to draw out something palpable from the viewer, a raw, feral side that yearns to join despite knowing nothing of the skill.

Skirt off keep da high heels on

Might be a little thing but I like that long yeah

Don't let these eyes fool ya

I can take it home, nothing back, give it to me

He places jazz hands over his face, mischievous eyes sparkling through his fingers at ‘don’t let these eyes fool ya’, and Lan Wangji firmly avoids glancing around the room to make sure no one else felt a little tight- otherwise he’d have to admit it was just him. All four of the Lans watching are flabbergasted when, at the next chorus, Wei Wuxian does a pirouette before blithely sliding down onto his knees to the middle. It’s messy, and the lack of technique would have given Lan Qiren a heart attack. However, it’s unmistakable, and when Wei Wuxian simultaneously pulls out the hairband in his ponytail to shake it out while on the floor as he falls into a grind on the floor, any negative comment blanks from Lan Wangji’s mind. At times, his eyes aren’t even open, his body moving on its own. It seems like he’s lost, consumed by the dance, but his eyes flash every time they open, and Lan Wangji can practically hear the whiplash when they lock onto him.

When the song slows before the last chorus he’s standing, running his hand through his loose hair, slowly swaying his hips again. His skin is covered in a sheen of sweat, and for a small moment Lan Wangji imagines himself behind him, hands moving up his hips and wrapping around him possessively. What must it be like to share a Pas de Deux with someone like Wei Wuxian? He’s never had the honor of finding out. The fact that there’s no one there with him seems criminal- but, to his shock and disbelief, Lan Wangji finds he doesn’t want anyone else up there with him.

When the choreography ends, Lan Wangji is relieved to know that he is not the only one staring red faced at the shameless man now breathing heavily in the middle.

“So, how was it?” he asked, smiling innocently. A towel whips across his face and hurtles him onto his butt, thrown by his furious younger brother who now looms menacingly over him. Even Jiang Yanli sounds reproachful as she begins “Now, A-Xian-”.

“Well, if you must know,” Nie Huaisang gleefully whispers to Lan Wangji, “that was not the version we have seen prior to today, and even that one was a bit adult. I think A-Xian showed out a little for a certain someone today.” When Lan Wangji turns to the small man, he hides his knowing grin behind his smartphone.

“Ahem. Well, that was interesting. Thank you.” Lan Xichen, cheeks only mildly red, likely regretting the decision. However, they’d gratefully underestimated their pupils.

“How is it even possible to move in those?!” Impressed, Jingyi is pointing frantically to the heels, still intact. “They didn’t snap, I was waiting the whole time for you to bust your- to fall!”

“It was so fluid! Full of energy, the whole time!” Lan Sizhui is much calmer in his views, but impressed nonetheless.

Everyone seems to be waiting for Lan Wangji to speak. He feels unworthy, as it is evident his students have more self control than he. In the end, all he can manage is “Mn”. That seems to work because the room returns to its previous state, everyone readying for the next routine. Soon the sky is dark, and Sizhui and Jingyi are receiving a ride home from Lan Xichen while Lan Wangji waits for the YunmengJiang practice to end. He’s vacuuming in the hallway when a hand grabs onto his arm. He turns and inhales sharply when Wei Wuxian stands excitedly in front of him. The other members head down the stairs without him, though Wen Ning and Nie Huaisang exchange glances as they pass.

“Lan Wangji! I wanted to catch you earlier, but my silly little shidi was interrupting me. Anyway, um… did you have any more feedback on the performance?” His eyes are wide with anticipation. “In theory, it’s supposed to be recorded, a moving camera sort of deal so that I’m always in the center, that’s why I move so much during, but I can imagine that it’s hard to watch when-”

The flood of words leaves Lan Wangji’s head spinning, so he’s staring in silence when Wei Wuxian finishes and is waiting expectantly.

It was stunning.

I was enraptured.

It was wild and yet disciplined.

The likes never before seen in the Cloud Recesses.

Nothing I’ve ever seen before.

That is not a bad thing?

Why did I feel that way when I can’t stand you?

When an even more awkward amount of time passes, the smile on Wei Wuxian’s face begins to crumple with a struggling disappointment.

“If you didn’t like it… that’s okay too…” he mumbles, eyes downcast as he turns to leave, and Lan Wangji rushes to soothe the hurt in his voice.

“It was different. I do not understand enough of your style of dance to speak objectively, but I think you did very well. Your pirouette could use some work.” If he wasn’t so properly raised, Lan Wangji might have imitated Jingyi and ‘facepalmed’. Of all the things that he could have said.

Wei Wuxian licks his lips, grinning as he bites his lip to hold in a laugh. “You noticed my little tribute to you, huh?” Tribute? To me? “Of course, it would never be as good as yours, you’re amazing and properly trained at what you do. But if you want it to look good, you’ll have to help me fix it, won’t you er-gege?”

Lan Wangji stills as Wei Wuxian seems to flush at his own words, takes a step back, and then leaps around him. “I’ll see you tomorrow!”

Er-gege?

Wei Wuxian vanishes as Lan Xichen’s knowing smile appears from the stairway. One glance, and Lan Wangji’s ears are furiously red as he shoves past his brother, gathering his things.

“You left the vacuum, Wangji,” he comments lightly.

Head high, refusing to face a smug Lan Xichen, Lan Wangji quickly returns to put the vacuum away in the storage closet. Waiting to strike, Lan Xichen is still blessedly quiet as he drives Lan Wangji home. They’ve pulled up at Lan Wangji’s townhouse when he finally speaks up.

“So. Er-gege, hm?”

“Brother, please.”

But Lan Xichen is merciless. Everyone always thought he was so sweet, but he knew just how to lovingly needle his brother. “He seemed to genuinely want your feedback. Maybe you ought to stay for another performance?”

Knowing he’d seen all of Lan Wangji’s uncharacteristic fumbling only made it worse, and Lan Wangji gave him a pained glance.  

“I’m just saying, I haven’t seen you watch something so aptly since Mother’s old videos.”

The pained glance becomes a look of outright horror, and Lan Xichen begins to laugh. “Don’t worry, Wangji. It’s not showing on your face to anyone else. I just know you.”

With Nie Huaisang’s words from earlier, Lan Wangji could possibly beg to differ.

“He’s also been watching you just as aptly all week. Studying, or perhaps pining is probably a better word. Surely you could answer a question or two of his. Especially after tonight when he was practically making l-”

“Good night, brother.”

Lan Wangji quickly opened the car door and rushed inside the townhouse, scarfing down his pre-packed dinner (he can practically hear Lan Qiren’s disapproval), and jumped into an ice-cold shower.

None of it matters- the moment he closes his eyes under his soft comforter, his dreams are in shades of gray. A lithe, writhing body with a familiar shape and glowing eyes emerges from the watercolor mass, entering his arms. He’s lost to the pleasure, the body holding him to the ground and grinding down passionately, hair now loose and hanging down low onto Lan Wangji’s shoulders. With just a little extra pressure, Lan Wangji wakes up gasping and cringes, slamming his hands over his eyes. Ashamed, he goes to the bathroom to clean himself up.

How sordid, how shameless of him. He hardly even knows anything about Wei Wuxian. He’s spent about a week thinking that other man was just loud, shameless, and obnoxiously persistent, disdained even at the sight of him. But after tonight, he sees someone that is wild, graceful, hardworking, beautiful, passionate-

In a single dance performance, he’s awakened something in Lan Wangji that he was sure he hadn’t felt in years. It can’t possibly be fair to Wei Wuxian that he’s being thought of in this manner- Lan Wangji needs to do better, be better.

Of course, it would never be as good as yours, you’re amazing and properly trained at what you do. But if you want it to look good, you’ll have to help me fix it, won’t you er-gege?

Wei Wuxian might be flirtatious, but it was clear that he still saw Lan Wangji as a fellow professional, and they were only hosting them while Lotus Pier was rebuilt. He needed to get himself together now, even if that meant humming the loudest, longest overtures he could remember to wash the low, tempting ‘er-gege’ out of his mind.

Keeping face for the next few days after such a licentious dream is only made worse by the fact that Wei Wuxian will not leave Lan Wangji alone. As Wei Wuxian shamelessly draws attention toward them, Lan Wangji fears he draws attention toward his own tumultuous emotional state. Though he has never emoted in an obvious way, he is afraid his eyes will reveal how thrilled he is to see the dancer every day.

Also, this was a professional ballet studio, and Sizhui and Jingyi deserved better.

“Wei Ying,” he starts one day, after another one of Wei Wuxian’s errant questions. Wei Wuxian flushes prettily, and he bats his eyelashes.  

“Yes, Lan Zhan?”

“I am teaching a class. My students deserve to be taught in the most productive learning environment I can provide for them.”

“Of course!”

“…Uninterrupted.”

“Oh… right. Of course. I’m sorry.” When Wei Wuxian’s eyes fell after darting to a sheepish Sizhui and Jingyi, Lan Wangji’s heart constricted. Shame didn’t belong in those beautiful eyes, and he quickly amended.

“However, if you wait until the end, or at least during cooling stretches, I will answer your questions.”

With an elated gasp, Wei Wuxian smiles shyly, peering from underneath his eyelids in a surprisingly vulnerable show of thankfulness. As quick as ever, the expression vanishes as he zips his lip and sits properly. Ignoring the heat in his ears, Lan Wangji returns to teaching. Sure enough, when cool-down stretches begin, Wei Wuxian unzips his lip and begins to pour questions and lavish praise upon Lan Wangji.

“What was it you taught Sizhui when he was struggling during-”

“You really got Jingyi’s form together after-”

“Wow, I would love to see you perform this on the stage! I bet it would be breathtaking, Lan Zhan!”

Lan Wangji patiently answers every question and fields every comment modestly, though he’s secretly preening, feeling so intelligent and wonderful. He’s used to praise and feedback, but after being in the field for so long, the commentary has become distanced, cold, and purely objectifying. Wei Wuxian’s comments are never this way- they’re warm, awed, and though teasing, intent on making him happy.

The use of his birth name only makes things feel more intimate, leaving him coveting to hear it after more than comments on his ballet form. Lan Wangji hadn’t even told Wei Wuxian what it was. Instead, it was his meddling older brother who conveniently stated it loudly when asking him a favor. Thinking back on it still made him blush.

-----

“Ahem. A-Zhan, can you grab that chair over there for me?”  

“Brother!” Lan Wangji’s ears reddened; his breath caught in his chest. Lan Xichen very rarely called him ‘A-Zhan’ in public company, preferring to use ‘didi’ or ‘Wangji’. How, why, was it that he’d chosen right now, right when Wei Wuxian was standing within earshot, to do this?

There was never a chance, either- the effect was instantaneous. Like a child given access to a secret stash of candy, Wei Wuxian’s lips curled into a mischievous grin.

“Lan Zhan! Don’t be so disrespectful to your older brother! He needs that chair!”

As Lan Wangji forced himself to hand an innocently smiling Lan Xichen the unnecessary chair (instead of throwing it at him) Wei Wuxian leaned into his side, raising an eyebrow.

“It’s okay,” he claimed, eyelashes fluttering. “You can call me Wei Ying, now that we’re such good friends and all!”

Lan Wangji only shoved him away, quickly walking to the bathroom and locking the door behind him. Satisfied that no one was listening from the outside, he falls to the ground, softly leaning his head back on the door. There was no need for anyone to see how flustered he looked at ‘Lan Zhan’ coming from velvet lips, evidenced by the tightness in his leotard.

‘Good friends’ would never want to see anything like that.

------

Lan Wangji tries not to think too hard about why ‘good friends’ chafes at him, but it continuously did so. They’d only known each other for about a month, and hardly know enough about one another to be so intimate. No one has ever even attempted to get this close to him outside of his brother, and up until now that has been perfectly fine.

So why does interacting with Wei Wuxian feel… inadequate? No, that’s not the right word, he chastises himself. Wei Wuxian could never be inadequate; Lan Wangji is just greedy for his attentions. It’s the same, frustrating feeling that he gets whenever Wei Wuxian is around, whenever he’s even in his thoughts.

He doesn’t realize he’s zoned out until a polite cough shakes him out of his reverie.

“Hanguang Jun? Is everything okay?”

Sizhui and Jingyi still stand at attention, waiting to be dismissed from class. Lan Wangji has been leaning against the doorway, staring longingly at the doorway down the hall where Wei Wuxian has already begun his own rehearsal. Clearing his throat, he quickly dismisses them from class, ignoring the knowing looks they gave him. As they exit the studio, music begins to blast from down the hall.

“Let’s go check it out,” Sizhui suggests, calm posture belying his anticipation. “Jin Ling said today is a choreo-designing day for them.”

“Which he followed by saying ‘that just means Wei Wuxian has ideas and doesn’t feel like practicing, stupid uncle’,” Jingyi replied. Lan Wangji’s eyebrows dipped; he didn’t like how Jin Ling spoke of Wei Wuxian. However, that seemed to be their dynamic- between Jin Ling and Jiang Cheng, he wasn’t sure who Wei Wuxian annoyed more, only that Wei Wuxian truly enjoyed the banter.

If they didn’t value his attentions, Lan Wangji was perfectly willing to take them.

“Would you both like to go over and observe?” he asks the boys, watching them stiffen, torn between curiosity and tradition.

“If Hanguang Jun is okay with it,” Sizhui answers diplomatically.

“Well surely Hanguang Jun would be okay, he can also go see W-” Jingyi flinches, his foot stepped on firmly by Sizhui.

Lan Wangji inhales deeply, turning to walk toward Studio B. His students follow, chastised merely by an inhale. Today seems to be a slower day, with only the main dancers and Jin Ling in the studio. The non-dancing members are missing, perhaps still at work, or whatever is occupying their time.

“Lan Wangji,” Jiang Cheng greets, as well as nodding at the students. Lan Wangji bows lightly in return.

“What’s up, little dancers?” Mianmian greets them from her mat, reclining with her feet in the air.

Lan Wangji is not as tactful as his brother, and he’s grasping for a rational response when Wei Wuxian scoots over, sliding an arm into Lan Wangji’s.  

“Well, obviously Hanguang Jun is here to see me- you all are dismissed,” he flips his hair, shrieking when Wen Qing throws a shoe at him. “Wen Qing! That is completely uncouth of you! Shameless!”

Wen Qing only flips him off, before turning back to discuss a physical therapy and applications essay to a furiously typing Wen Ning. Chuckling, Wei Wuxian turns back.

“You both can go, Jin Ling is waiting at the aux cord. He’ll pretend he didn’t, but he misses you both.”

Smirking, Jingyi dashes over, with Sizhui calmly following behind.

“So, Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian begins, his smile softening. “How can we help you today?”

“Sizhui and Jingyi wanted to watch,” he replies.

“And are they the only ones?” Wei Wuxian whispers teasingly. He leans into Lan Wangji’s space, giving that look from under his eyelashes again. It takes everything in Lan Wangji not to pull him forward and pin him to the wall, to take his lips and show him exactly what Lan Wangji wants to do. Instead, he takes deep breaths, trying to divert attention away from the heaviness growing both in his heart, stomach, and lower. He is respectful, he is a grown man with self control for goodness’ sakes, he-

Loud trumpets begin to blast from the speakers before being paused, and with a gasp they pull apart, not releasing that they’d only been a breath apart. Snickering, the teenagers quickly turn their heads in opposite directions from the two. Lan Wangji’s eyes narrow, and Wei Wuxian clucks his lips.

“Okay then, Jin Ling! Since you have chosen your song of the day, surely you are willing to show your friends the choreography!”

Turning puce, Jin Ling chokes in indignation. “M-me?”

“You!” Striding forward, Wei Wuxian snatches the phone out of his hand and presses play, allowing the first notes of Bad by Michael Jackson to continue playing. “Do you remember the one we did this past spring? That one. Go.”

Fidgeting for a moment, Jin Ling seems to waver before squaring his shoulders at the challenge. He moves out to the center of the dance floor, while Wei Wuxian goes back to lean into Lan Wangji’s side. Their bodies are touching completely on the sides, and Lan Wangji can’t help but stiffen at the egregious amount of connection. Sensing his discomfort, Wei Wuxian goes to move away.

“No,” Lan Wangji whispers, the word slipping out before he can help it. Wei Wuxian lifts an eyebrow, before smiling and leaning back in as Jin Ling begins to move.

Your butt is mine

Gonna tell you right

Just show your face

In broad daylight

I'm telling you

On how I feel

Gonna hurt your mind

Don't shoot to kill

Come on-

It’s apparent as he dances that Jin Ling is an amateur, but it’s supplemented by his enjoyment as he relaxes into the routine. His movements sing of Jin-arrogance, his pleasure of showing these older boys that he too can dance.

But my friend you have seen nothin'

Just wait 'til I get through

Because I'm bad, I'm bad come on (Really really bad)

Sizhui and Jingyi watch in interest, following the steps of the choreography, but they don’t seem too overly impressed. In the middle of the first chorus, Wei Wuxian (eyes now closed in focus on Lan Wangji’s shoulder) suddenly speaks.

“Now, Sizhui, Jingyi, after the chorus- you join! Follow along with Jin Ling!”

It’s clear that this throws Jin Ling, whose footwork becomes a little stilted. Sizhui and Jingyi look to Lan Wangji, who only lifts his own chin up in challenge. Go. Timidly, they join Jin Ling, trying to pick up on the dance.

The word is out

You're doin' wrong

Gonna lock you up

Before too long

The boys are struggling to work in sync with one another, and in a panic, Sizhui decides to try something different- he begins to perform a familiar ballet routine, speeding it up to match the new beat.

“Okay Sizhui, you’re getting it!” Wei Wuxian encourages, eyes sparkling with mirth.

Laughing, Jingyi joins in behind him, and Jin Ling smirks before continuing with the original routine.

Your lyin' eyes

Gonna tell you right

So listen up

Don't make a fight

Your talk is cheap

You're not a man

You're throwin' stones

To hide your hands

All three boys are giggling uncontrollably, the ballet danseurs leaping and stepping to the beat around Jin Ling as he begins to improvise his own footwork around the floor, trying to throw them off while keeping his rhythm. In awe, Lan Wangji looks down at Wei Wuxian, who is still intensely watching the boys with a proud smile on his face. He’s teaching them; this is how he teaches; Lan Wangji realizes. It seems like Wei Wuxian’s style- to challenge his students to come out of their shell and grow, but to do so in a way where they can choose their own way to succeed and would not have to be alone- growth is always easier when you feel supported.

Lan Wangji wished that his uncle had realized that- that someone, anyone, had realized that- for him.

By the second chorus, Sizhui and Jingyi have rejoined Jin Ling for his version of the dance, their delicate ballet movements working in tandem with his animated pop style for an eclectic mix. When the breakdown begins, Wei Wuxian leans off Lan Wangji to clap his hands twice, his face now steeled with purpose. As if summoned, the other dancers in the room all rise from their positions where they watched and begin to saunter toward the dance floor.

The teenagers clear out, making way for Jiang Cheng, Wen Ning, Wen Qing and Mianmian who smoothly transition from the playful practice routine into the real thing, and Lan Wangji is stunned by the difference in quality.

We can change the world tomorrow

This could be a better place

If you don’t like what I’m sayin’

Then won’t you slap my face

Because I’m bad, I’m bad come on (Really really bad)

While Jin Ling made the dance look fun, something easy enough to learn, this new choreography is something practiced, sharp, yet danced with the same sort of ease that carried the illusion of low difficulty. At the repeat of the chorus, Wei Wuxian struts into the middle of the dancers, who seamlessly make way for him, and it’s easy to see who the best dancer in the troupe is. They orient around him. Wei Wuxian’s dance is natural, following the routine, but occasionally deviating to accommodate a hair flip, or some extra footwork, or something that makes him stand out, yet he never loses the rhythm. During one of the movements, as they all move to the side and seem to fall into the next, Wei Wuxian adds a little ballet flair of his own, the technique much better, and Lan Wangji snorts.

The dance comes to an end, and everyone splits apart with joyful laughter, even the teenagers who are now drinking in the praise of the older dancers for their ‘creativity’. Wei Wuxian turns back to Lan Wangji, a full smile on his face. His expression stutters, eyes widening in shock, and he dashes over to Lan Wangji.

“Lan Zhan… you’re… you’re smiling…”

The small curl of Lan Wangji’s lip and the softness in his eyes could hardly be considered a smile by Wei Wuxian standards, and yet Lan Wangji found that he was struggling to keep what felt like a goofy expression off his face.

“No no no, don’t- don’t stop, please.” Gazing at him in wonder, Wei Wuxian gently smiled again.

A polite cough interrupted them after moments that seemed like forever, with Wen Ning shyly twiddling his fingers. He’d kindly stepped in their way so that others couldn’t stare, but his bashful eyes showed that he was quickly becoming uncomfortable.

Grimacing, Lan Wangji pulled away, leaving the room before he could further embarrass himself.

That Saturday, Lan Wangji enters the studio alone. The quiet halls of the Cloud Recesses are even more silent than usual, the bright morning light shimmering down from the windows onto the floors as puts on his ballet slippers. The sun is warm on his body as he stretches, feeling a good burn in his limbs. It may sound silly to others, but if Lan Wangji were to explain how he felt on days like this, when he came into the studio, it would be to simply exist. To be one of the light particles in the room, to work in silence, to breathe in peace- no expectations, no requirements, just to dance as he is.

Once he feels adequately stretched, Lan Wangji moves toward his phone, pressing the playlist he’s looking for, and begins to practice some of the pieces he plans on working with Sizhui and Jingyi, and then onto his own personal choreographies to keep his body familiar. After two hours of practice, Lan Wangji is scrolling through his playlist when he sees a song that makes his heart pound. Acting on rare impulse, he clicks it, and moves back to the middle.

The first melancholic notes of The Dying Swan, played by traditional Chinese instruments, reverberate into the room, and he takes his first bourrées, the light steps carrying him as he gently lets his arms wave behind him. He envisions that they are not arms, but wings, delicately fluttering back and forth as he closes his eyes. Properly warmed, his back easily sinks forward, arms following low as the weight of suffering pulls him down, about to lose everything in this lifetime, watching it all fade away in front of his eyes.

Keeping en pointe, his legs begin to shake, though not from exhaustion- no, Lan Wangji was entirely too hard bodied, too trained to allow his legs to quake from one mere performance. No, his legs quaked with that of impending death, trying to fight to stay alive despite the forlorn acceptance looming closer and closer.

Spinning in circles, Lan Wangji raises his wings, flapping them in desperation, trying to lift into the night sky, to no avail. Lowering his feet to the ground, he flutters from one end of the room to the other, before succumbing to exhaustion, gently curling his body onto the floor.

Still, refusing to accept it, he tries again, rising his body from the ground, flapping his wings. He tries, he flaps as hard as he can…. and is faced with failure. He will never again leave the Earth as an earthly being. There is only one way he will ever fly again.

Oh.

Okay.

With a couple more flaps, and a bitter resignation, Lan Wangji looks to the sky as his body sinks to the ground. The final twitches of death overtake him, and with the final hum of the instruments, his head falls low.

“You’re magnificent.”

Gasping sharply as he’s ripped from his state of mind, Lan Wangji lifts his head, eyes connected with Wei Wuxian’s. He stands obscured in shadow, but the sun gleams in his silver eyes as they revere Lan Wangji.

“What are you doing here?” he demands, voice dry. It was only 10am; the YunmengJiang troupe shouldn’t have been arriving for hours. Wei Wuxian quails at the tone, holding his hands up in apology.

“I’m sorry, I forgot my adapter here and I came back to get it… but… wow, Lan Zhan. That was incredible. Is… is that from Swan Lake?”

“No. It is its own solo, The Dying Swan.”

The confusion was fair enough. Lan Wangji had watched his mother, the iconic Madame Lan, perform as both. Her stunning performance as Odette in Swan Lake had been what drew his father’s adoration, which had become her downfall. Though he’d never formally been trained in Odette’s role, as Siegfried, he’d secretly learned both performances. This, as well as The Dying Swan, were some of the most captivating performances she’d ever done, and it allowed Lan Wangji to connect with her in this most private of ways.

“I’ve never actually seen either before. I’ve never been to a ballet. Madame Yu would take Shijie and Jiang Cheng to things like that, for political appearances and what not… I didn’t get to go to those sorts of events. Wasn’t good for the family image, being the potential bastard and all.” Wei Wuxian’s tone was bitter as he glared into the wall, but he shook his head. “No, I’ve only heard of it, but it just…you embodied it so well, it legitimately looked like a swan’s last breaths…I hope that’s not an insult.”

“It is not.” In fact, it was a great honor if someone who’d never seen it was able to pick up on it. Still, the morbidity of it all, and the forced vulnerability leaves Lan Wangji uncomfortable. He turns to grab his things, ready to end his day.

“No, no please! Don’t stop! I didn’t mean to interrupt you! I… I can be quiet! If you let me stay!” Wei Wuxian sinks to the ground, pleading. “It’s just… I’ve never seen you dance on your own. I always see you teach, and you do that amazingly, but that… I’m almost speechless Lan Zhan. You were ethereal.”

It’s almost too much. Maybe it’s this pressure that makes Lan Wangji slip. “My mother, she performed in Swan Lake, one of the versions with the sad ending. I loved it, so I learned to do that as well. Her performances, both, were much better than mine.”

He’s sure that Wei Wuxian should be turned away by the morbidity of it all, but shockingly Wei Wuxian sighs fondly.  

“I’d have to see proof that she looked better than the illustrious Hanguang Jun, but I will believe you. No wonder that is your title. Lord of bearing light, indeed. Wow. That’s so wonderful, though, to have a legacy. I bet she was lovely. I wish I had something like that, to connect to my parents. They’re dead too, obviously, but what can you do.”

Though Lan Wangji is delighted at the praise, it’s disheartening to see Wei Wuxian try to brush off his own sadness. Perhaps he’d also been feeling existential as well this morning.

“Wei Ying… are you okay?” It’s unfair, but Lan Wangji doesn’t like to see that unhappiness on someone like Wei Wuxian. There is clearly something wrong, something beyond what Wei Wuxian is revealing to him. He doesn’t like that kind of bitter secretiveness in his expression- it looks entirely too familiar, as if he is used to it. Lan Wangji does not feel even remotely qualified to help others in this way, but… he’d like to try. Wei Wuxian gently laughs, returning a small smile.

“Oh Lan Zhan, I’ll be all right. I’ll just watch you today if that’s okay with you. I’ll be quiet, you won’t even know I’m here.”

“I want Wei Ying to be here. Stay.”

Both turn red at the honest words. It’s embarrassing, but it’s truth. Lan Wangji wants Wei Wuxian there. He wants Wei Wuxian to feel safe, protected inside the peaceful realm that he’s curated for himself in the Cloud Recesses. He’s not sure what it is that weighs on him right now, clearly something that is usually hidden behind a joyous and flirtatious façade, but Lan Wangji wants to be someone that can be leaned on. If Wei Wuxian provides him with warmth and validation, Lan Wangji wants to provide him with stability and peace, at least for right now.

Lips agape, Wei Wuxian unconsciously places a hand over his heart. “Okay, Lan Zhan. I’ll stay.”

There’s a pause, and then his lips relax into a familiar grin, and Lan Wangji’s shoulders loosen.

“Would Wei Ying like to perform something of his own? I have already practiced.”

“Can I perform something? Maybe we can go back and forth with solo pieces?”

The erotic dancing from Hands on Me rush to the forefront of Lan Wangji’s mind, and his entire face flushes. Knowing exactly where his mind went, Wei Wuxian throws his head back in laughter.

“Don’t worry! If I do anything it’s not going to be anything like the first one, at least not as nasty. I promise. I only did that so I could see the look on my Lan Zhan’s face.”

To see the look on my face?

My Lan Zhan?

Say that again.

My Wei Ying…

Wei Wuxian lifts from the ground, his dancer’s grace showing despite the sweatpants and the jacket he’s wearing. He slips off the jacket to show a black beater underneath, hanging loose from his toned body. His hairstyle is unusual, hanging down loosely and giving his face a more mature look, and it’s incredibly hot to Lan Wangji. The playful Wei Wuxian returns when he ties it up into his ponytail, and holds his hand out for the aux.

“I think this one is tame enough. Something so I don’t desecrate the Cloud Recesses, not after Hanguang Jun worked so hard to bless it with his light.”

“Wei Ying.”

“I have a title too, you know. The ‘Yiling Laozu’. It’s silly, nothing like yours. Got it after I demolished some competition held out in Yiling, near Yunmeng. Apparently, I put the fear of God into some of those dancers!” Wei Wuxian is cackling as he searches through his phone for a song. “That was the first time Lotus Pier ever officially competed. A lot was on the line; Madame Yu was ready to cut Jiang Cheng’s entire career in dance, and we needed something to prove that we were valuable, something other than a ‘ragtag group of street hooligans’ when we- well, when Jiang Cheng- were from an aristocratic family. So, I showed up and showed out.”

Lan Wangji can only imagine a ferociously intense Wei Wuxian, especially given how good he was when relaxed, but he would love to see that sort of competitive power in real life. Wei Wuxian finds his song, and he quickly moves to a spot on the floor, posing.

“Again, I promise that despite the lyrics, the dance is safe, Lan Zhan.”  

Lan Wangji listens as the melodious vibes of Masego’s Mystery Lady begin to boom from the speakers. Though he’s never been attracted to women, the sentiment of the lyrics almost hit a little too close to home about how he feels- the overpowering adoration, the aching yearning, the searing lust. At this point, everything Wei Wuxian is involved with is always aimed directly at his heart.

Thinking I can make as many songs 'bout a lady

When I haven't met her

But she on me heavy, on my cerebellum (if I)

If I say I love her, am I wrong? Am I crazy?

Am I overzealous?

But I know the feeling, and I'm never wrong-

This dance is fluid, gentle along with the dulcet singing and the velvet bass and guitar undertones. Wei Wuxian’s movements are still precise, but broad, sweeping his arms constantly, wide, and swaying his hips. Sometimes he’s rising to his toes, before falling back to the ground gracefully into another move. The dance evokes a deep, heart-clenching yearning, as the lyrics croon, and Lan Wangji can see that this is a man reaching for, falling into the clutches of a love that he’s sure exists, though he’s not sure where or in what form.

Swear that I've been gifted with a song and a medley

It's intoxicating, it weigh on you heavy, like the alcohol

We can do like anything you want, I'm amazin'

Letter to my lady, I just wanna please you, check my catalogue

If there’s one thing Wei Wuxian has mastered, it’s how to properly use his body to convey exactly what he wants. While they are not in the same genre, nor the background meanings of their pieces at the same depth, Lan Wangji knows in his core that Wei Wuxian truly understands the power of The Dying Swan, of how to use your body to tell an aching tale.

Cursе of the talented еverywhere I go

They wanna change clothes and pose

But my wife be in my dreams, bruh

No, I couldn't see you

I saw her silhouette-

Lan Wangji drinks in the glory as Wei Wuxian slides back into the same choreography as the first chorus, observing how even though it’s the same dance, he adds a little something different here and there. The difference between the two of them, he finds, is that Wei Wuxian shows a love, a fire, behind getting lost to the tale. The yearning is painful, and he is happy to succumb. He’s not telling the story; he is the story. It’s a balance that, when done improperly, could cause one to lose discipline, to lose focus, but when done right, could only ever enhance a performance to perfection.

I'm just undressin', all of the sections of my thoughts (yeah)

Thinkin', thinkin', thinkin', thinkin', thinkin' too hard

Thinkin' it too hard, ha

But I really wanna know-

When Wei Wuxian spins around, a look of unadulterated peace on his face, all of Lan Wangji’s thoughts cease. The only thing he ever needs to see in the world right now is that look on Wei Wuxian’s face. A true happiness in dance. It’s almost as if Lan Wangji can see his wings as he descends from wherever he goes when he dances, landing back into the light. When the song ends, Wei Wuxian giggles a little.

“Sorry. Sometimes I get into the zone when I dance.”

“Never apologize to me. Not for that.”

Whimpering (a sound that will forever haunt Lan Wangji’s dreams), Wei Wuxian bites his lip, seeming to ponder something. Awkwardly, Lan Wangji stands to get his bag, but then he feels urgent hands on his arms.

“Actually, Lan Zhan, wait! Maybe that- that wasn’t- I have another one to perform! Just- go grab a chair!”

Frowning, Lan Wangji retrieves a chair and sits.

“You still look a little lost, Lan Zhan. Let’s make it a little happier in here. This song always makes me cheer up!”

The beats of The Way You Make Me Feel come through, and Wei Wuxian smiles as he starts to toe around the room. The existential mood of every song before is now gone, replaced by a simple joy as Wei Wuxian begins to dance silly around the chair that Lan Wangji sits in. This isn’t a routine, this is just a new way for them to exist together, and Lan Wangji’s heart begins to warm despite himself. Wei Wuxian reaches for Lan Wangji’s hands, and Lan Wangji tentatively holds them out. They sway together, Wei Wuxian singing as he childishly swings back and forth, Lan Wangji in the chair amused. He appreciates that Wei Wuxian didn’t force him to stand, to dance- he’s giving him a chance to join in without feeling inclined. 

You knock me off of my feet

Now baby (You knock me off of my feet)

My lonely days are gone (My lonely days are gone)

Ain't nobody's business,

Ain't nobody's business

Ain't nobody's business,

Ain't nobody's business but

Mine and my baby

His smile is infectious, and Lan Wangji’s eyes soften, before he jumps when Wei Wuxian falls in his lap. Wei Wuxian wraps an arm around his shoulder and begins kicking his feet out, laughing instead of singing as the song fades out. When he lifts his head back up, their faces are only mere inches apart. Lan Wangji can’t help but give him a small smile back, and Wei Wuxian chokes a little.

“Lan Zhan, I-”

A strained, polite cough comes from the door, and both their heads whip to see Jiang Cheng, Nie Huaisang and Lan Xichen standing there, observing. Nie Huaisang has a knowing look behind his phone, Lan Xichen a pleasant smile that just digs into Lan Wangji’s soul because he knows he going to hear about this.

Jiang Cheng just looks mortified.

“Jiang Cheng! Huaisang! Lan Xichen!” Wei Wuxian is shameless, standing up to greet them while Wangji only looks away, ears flaming red. Jiang Cheng grabs his ear, yanking him out.

“Ow, owie, but Jiang Cheeeeng-”

“You shameless bastard! I swear I take my eyes off you for two hours and you go-”

His hissing rounds the corner and vanishes, with Nie Huaisang winking and following on his crutch. Lan Xichen sidles up to Lan Wangji, who only turns his face away an inch, but is practically a full rejection.

“So… Wangji… Are things official?”

“Nothing like that, brother.”

“Is- is he not trying to be serious with you? Is he playing with your feelings, Wangji?” Lan Xichen’s serious, hardening tone brooks conflict. “Because if so, I can go speak to him.”

“No, it is not like that.” Wei Wuxian likes to tease, but surely, he wouldn’t… “It’s… I…” He finds that he has no words for it. “I am not… used to this kind of uncontrolled emotion. I am afraid that it is too much at once.”

“Oh, Wangji. It’s okay to just like him. You don’t have to understand every single part of it. I know you’re not used to it, but you have to start somewhere, yes? I met someone I was interested in today, and I simply gave them my phone number.”

His brother always found communication and relationships easy- Lan Wangji never understood how he did it. Instead of acknowledging the advice, he inclines his head, wondering at the new person.

“His name is Nie Mingjue. Nie Huaisang’s older brother. He’s quite wonderful, an overwhelming breath of fresh air. I would love for you both to meet.”

If Nie Mingjue was anything like Nie Huaisang, Lan Wangji would be getting triple the uncomfortable looks. The pink blush on Lan Xichen’s face was already bad enough to deal with.

“How does he make you feel, Wangji?” Lan Xichen probes.

“Wei Ying… he makes me feel-” Inspired. Awe-struck. Breathless. Limitless.

Before they can continue, Wei Wuxian is back, quickly gathering his things. Jiang Cheng storms away in the background, with Nie Huaisang whining for him to “wait for your poor one-legged friend!”

“You chose to come up here! You could have waited in the car!”

“Well, I had a prediction, Jiang Cheng, and I couldn’t miss it! And I was right!”

Wei Wuxian draws his attention when he leans down in front of him.

“We have to go, Lan Zhan! Team meeting that I apparently never bothered to write down. Unlock your phone!”

The command is so sudden that Lan Wangji follows suit, and Wei Wuxian puts his number in and calls.

“Text me! I’m totally going to text you! See you later, Lan Zhan, Lan Xichen!”

Everything is over in a breeze, Wei Wuxian’s presence gone as suddenly as he’d arrived, and Lan Wangji must recover.

“See, now you have his number! Now what were you saying before?”

“Brother…” The moment of his nerves have passed. Now, Lan Wangji’s expression looks so pitiful that Lan Xichen relents, laughing into his sleeves before clearing his face.

“All right. Anyway, I’m here because you wanted to drive out for the bunny you wanted to adopt? And needed help with building the enclosure?”

It speaks to how exhilarating Wei Wuxian must be that Lan Wangji has completely forgotten that those were his plans. He’s been waiting for the adorable white and gold bunny to be old enough to adopt for three months! Quickly changing out of his ballet gear, he gathers his things and hurries out, followed by a laughing Lan Xichen.

Wei Wuxian’s number demands attention from his screen, the empty text box waiting to be filled. Lan Wangji can’t put it off forever but be damned if he won’t try.

It was easy in the beginning; right after leaving the Cloud Recesses ballet studio, Lan Xichen drove him out to the small farm where he purchased the fluffy white and gold bunny. If he uncontrollably beamed at the bunny, squishing his face into her fur the entire drive back, it was between him, his brother, and the universe. As soon as he got home, the sweet baby, dubbed ‘Bichen’ for her scrupulous cleaning and shiny coat, was released into her new coop to hop and sniff and play. Of course, because she was Lan Wangji’s perfect girl, she didn’t make messes- she quickly adjusted to where to go to the bathroom, and quietly chewed on her rabbit food. When Lan Xichen tried to offer her a carrot as food, Lan Wangji quickly snatched it away- they were for treats only!

After a couple hours of general conversation, where Lan Xichen mercifully avoided the topic of the silver-eyed dancer, he finally gathered his things and left Lan Wangji to socialize with Bichen. By nightfall, Bichen is asleep in her cozy bed, Lan Wangji has cooked his dinner, and there’s nothing left to distract him from the daunting task of texting Wei Wuxian first.

In all fairness, he’d thought Wei Wuxian would text first, relieving him of the responsibility. He spoke more between the two; surely, he’d have more to say? Yet, he had not said a word. Why? Finally, an hour before bed, Lan Wangji snaps an aesthetic photo of Bichen, attaches it to a text titled ‘Bichen’, and sends it. Before he can panic, he moves to his bedroom, slips into lotus position, and begins to meditate.

It’s just a message, he reasons. No big deal.

He forces himself from tipping over in a rush when the phone vibrates, a bunch of messages arriving in tandem.

Wei Ying

Lan Zhan!!!! 😍 They’re so pretty!!

Bichen??

Lord of Bearing Light

& his bunny, Dustless

You truly are royalty, Lan Zhan

Lan Wangji flushes at the compliment, a small, giddy smile on his lips.

Lan Zhan

She is wonderfully sweet.

She would love to meet you.

It takes a moment before he realizes what he’s done, and then his head is in his hands. He’s practically invited Wei Wuxian to his home! How shameless! Luckily, Wei Wuxian seems to take it as a joke.

Wei Ying

Lan Zhan!!!

I could never impose upon the magnificent Hanguang Jun

And the gracious Bichen

Also, I’m sorry for not texting you earlier!

I got really busy and time got carried away

But you have all my attention now

Would you like to see my pet?

Lan Zhan

Yes.

Lan Wangji jumps when a picture of a sleek black snake arrives in his inbox, but it isn’t the reptile that gives him pause- it’s the kissing lips Wei Wuxian is giving the snake, eyes playful.

Wei Ying

This is Suibian!

He’s an old man

Had him ever since I graduated high school

Lan Zhan

How rude.

A pet should not be ‘whatever’.

Wei Ying

Lan Zhaaaan don’t be a buzzkill

It’s a funny 😭

Let it be a funny

Suibian doesn’t care at all

He’s fat and happy

Lan Zhan

As long as he is well-cared for.

Wei Ying

He is! I love him to death!

Anyway, it’s good we ended our session today

If it meant getting a lil baby like that

I hope she makes you smile!

Lan Zhan

Thank you.

She does.

How did your meeting go?

Wei Ying

I’m sure you’d believe me

If I said I literally didn’t care 🙄

I zoned out halfway through

I’d rather watch Lan Zhan dance like a swan

So beautiful

Biting his lip to hold back the smile, Lan Wangji swears he can hear his uncle chastising Wei Wuxian’s lack of discipline. Deciding to be bold again, he types in his response.

Lan Zhan

Wei Ying is beautiful when he dances too.

Wei Ying

Awwwwwwwwwwwww

Lan Zhan! don’t make me blush

Topic change! I can’t take it!

What did you eat for dinner?

We went over to Shijie’s

Which sucked bc her husband is annoying

Bastard peacock

But she made me my favorite

Lan Zhan

Which is?

Wei Ying

Lotus root and pork rib soup!

Hers is the best!

Lan Zhan

I had vegetarian stir fry.

I do not have a favorite food.

I was raised to eat everything offered.

Wei Ying

No favorite meal?

Nothing you don’t like?

Lan Zhan

Waste is not permitted in the Cloud Recesses.

Do not be picky with food.

Wei Ying

Geez, Lan Zhan. All right.

Well, I have more than enough

You should pick one!

Wei Wuxian continues to discuss his favorite types of foods, which frankly, sound hellish and like they would melt Lan Wangji’s tongue right out of his mouth. Still, finds himself thoroughly entertained by Wei Wuxian’s joy, texting even under his covers until he falls asleep. 

Gasping into his hand, Wei Wuxian lays blissfully in his pillows, his last message unanswered after 9pm. His legs are a mess, his breathing heavy, and his forehead covered in sweat. Lan Wangji must have never looked at himself in that gigantic mirror in those studios. Otherwise, he’d know Wei Wuxian was nothing in comparison.

Wei Ying is beautiful when he dances too.

Wei Ying is beautiful.

Beautiful.

God, and imagining it in that deep voice? Pretending to be enveloped in those strong arms? He could tell Wei Wuxian he looked like he got no sleep in that voice and Wei Wuxian might still come from it. It didn’t seem right to fantasize about the heavenly being that was Lan Wangji, not somebody so adorable they name their damn rabbit ‘Bichen’. He bets Lan Wangji loves and dotes on baby Bichen and gives her all the smiles.

Wei Wuxian would give anything to be in that spot, taking all of Lan Wangji’s love. He wants the nasty, but he also wants to be the only one to watch Lan Wangji practice on Saturday mornings. He wants to compliment him, hold his hand, hug him, kiss him, cuddle, everything. He wants all of it, all to himself, but he’s too much of a coward to say anything. Dancing? Easy. Everything turns off when he dances, so dancing for Lan Wangji was as easy as breathing. And if things get awkward, he can just say it’s all part of the act. But actually approaching him? He couldn’t even get himself to text the damn man first!

Lan Wangji snorts in amusement when his phone vibrates while he’s standing in line at the grocery store a week later. He’s tried to be purposeful about contacting Wei Wuxian, making sure that he’s not being ‘too thirsty’ everyday, as he’s overheard Jin Ling whisper to Jingyi about someone. As such, he has found that Wei Wuxian has bent to his pattern, waiting until after classes and rehearsals are over to bombard him with messages. Over a week, he’s learned many surface level details about Wei Wuxian, making sure to reciprocate as prompted by a proud Lan Xichen (‘Wangji, I’m sure you can find a favorite in something. He just wants to know you!’)

They’ve shared their favorite seasons- Wei Wuxian’s is summer because he likes to recline in the sun and sip wines next to the pool. Lan Wangji has found that his is spring because he likes the cool breeze and the freshly blooming flowers. Same idea with favorite colors- Wei Wuxian’s is red orange (‘I couldn’t pick one, and they meet in the middle, and it’s pretty, Lan Zhan!’). Lan Wangji likes blue, specifically the azure of gentian violets- they remind him of his mother.

As soon as he’s paid and packed all his items in the car, he checks the message. Blushing to his roots, he drops the phone back into his bag and drives home, heart pounding. After feeding Bichen, he proceeds to prepare his dinner, timidly adding a small amount of the extra-hot chili oil as previously requested. He takes a bite of the tofu, and immediately snorts, quickly gulping down water to finish the bite. Eyes watering, he suffers through the meal. Heat pools under his skin uncomfortably, and now he has enough excuse to blame the needles under his skin on the food, and not from how tight the text message made him.

The picture is of a set of diamond encrusted rings with numbers above them, titled ‘If you could pick an engagement ring, which would you pick?’

Wei Ying

Lan Zhan!

Which?

I’m curious!

Lan Zhan?👀

Lan Zhan…

Is everything okay?

It’s been about 2hrs after your last practice…

You normally eat dinner by now…

Was it the chili oil?

Did you pass out?!

Omg Lan Zhan I am so sorry

Lan Zhan

I am awake, Wei Ying.

The food was…difficult to eat.

Wei Ying

I got really worried, Lan Zhan!

Don’t scare me like that

You’ll get used to the heat

But now that I know you’re alive

My question? If you had to?

Lan Zhan

I will not get used to it.

Number 6.

Wei Ying

OMFG 🤩

ME TOO LAN ZHAN

Contrary to popular belief

I think a diamond solitaire would be so pretty.

On white gold!

Just so I could flash it around

every time someone mentions my fiancé or fiancée! 

If I could have a wedding band, it would be made of opal.

Because that would be sooo cool

The floodgates that tried to break under the thought of Wei Wuxian being his…husband? His forever partner. His… his lover. Lan Wangji truly wasn’t ready for the power of the fantasies that began to appear in his mind, which is why he’d tossed the phone to begin with. Feeding Wei Wuxian his brain-melting favorites. Listening to him discuss every piece of minutia that made him happy, even down to the smallest lotus petal. Massaging his body after a long day of training, receiving a massage in return, languishing in the feel of those strong, expressive hands. Kissing the fingers where the diamond solitaire that Lan Wangji bought for him rested, watching him blush prettily. To watch him dance, to share their Saturdays, everyday, always, and forever. To take him in that same studio, to watch Wei Wuxian whimper in his arms as he-

Stop. This is not what Wei Ying intended when he sent you the message. 

Lan Zhan

That sounds lovely.

Is Wei Ying considering engagement?

Wei Ying

I’m so glad we’re on the same page!

Whaaaat

No

Anyway! I got some socks today!

Wanna see?

His self control crumbled when Wei Wuxian sent a picture of the red knee-high socks. The socks themselves, covered in shiny black dragons, were childish in nature and clearly pleased their owner. What sent Lan Wangji over the edge was the pose- Wei Wuxian was laid on his back, his legs up in the air on the wall, showing the length of his well sculpted legs. The moment he imagined those legs on his chest, he’d had to excuse himself from the conversation, rushing to the shower.

Wei Wuxian was so fucking stupid. Though the dragon socks made him exceedingly happy, a gift from his beloved Shijie, he couldn’t believe he’d just sent them to Lan Wangji like that. Jiang Cheng would tease him to no end if he knew. The guy he liked, who he’d just spent time comparing engagement rings to, and then he turned around like a 10^th grader with his silly socks. Groaning, he slams his head back on the bed. It was his own fault; he’d been so excited to entertain the far-off notion of marriage with the great Hanguang Jun, and then punked out at the last second. His phone buzzed, and after a couple breaths, he unlocks it.

Head Shaker

He chose the same ring, didn’t he?

Yiling Laozu

Oh, shut up Nie Huaisang

Ofc he did

He’s perfect IN ALL WAYS

Head Shaker

Oh A-Xian, you’re so whipped

Bichen dashes across the living room, her restlessness echoed by her owner. Lan Wangji hasn’t spoken to Wei Wuxian all day. The Cloud Recesses had been unusually silent as well, with the entirety of the YunmengJiang troupe sticking to themselves in Studio B. Wei Wuxian hadn’t even come to his class, leaving the normally stoic teacher visibly shaken. Instead, Jin Ling sat nervously in the doorway, twiddling his fingers as he tried to stay patient.

“Is everything okay, Jin Ling?” Sizhui asked, concerned.

“Of course, everything is fine,” Jin Ling hisses, tossing his hair to draw attention from the squeak in his voice. “They’re just talking some stuff out for the competition.”

“You’ve been training here for what, five weeks?” Jingyi comments. “Do you have to make some last-minute adjustments? Is that why they’re so tense?”

Jin Ling scowls, folding his arms. “I don’t think that’s it.” His voice becomes thoughtful. “The routines are fire, there’s no way they’d change them now, especially not so close to competition time. I’ll find out eventually, even if they did kick me out.”

This answer seems to satisfy Sizhui and Jingyi, who are lucky that their teacher hasn’t enforced the ‘do not gossip’ rule in the Cloud Recesses. Still, Lan Wangji only hoped that Wei Wuxian would talk to him as well, especially when he watched all of them depart later that night. The mood was uncomfortably dour, an uncharacteristic icy fury in Wei Wuxian’s eyes to match that of the fire in Jiang Cheng’s eyes as they breezed past and down the stairs, a shaking Wen Qing behind them. He didn’t even look Lan Wangji’s way, whatever it was he was seeing far beyond drawing his eyes to his worried admirer.

Having waited long enough, Lan Wangji pulls out his phone and, taking a deep breath, presses the call button. After two long rings, the phone connects.

“Lan Zhan?” There is honest surprise in Wei Wuxian’s voice, with an undercurrent of exhaustion. “Is everything all right?”

“I called to ask you the same.”

A quiet, pained laugh echoes through the receiver.

“Oh, Lan Zhan. I can’t believe how good it is to hear your voice. I am a little busy at the moment, but I’ll call you back in an hour, okay? Go get something to eat, take care of yourself.”

The pain in his voice only makes Lan Wangji more concerned, but he doesn’t want to contribute anymore to Wei Wuxian’s distress.

“You as well, Wei Ying. I will wait.”

“Thank you.”

He does what Wei Wuxian says, but the hour seems agonizing. Lan Wangji was so accustomed to Wei Wuxian’s vivacity, that when he was upset it almost seemed like he was communicating with an entirely different person. The protectiveness in his heart continued to swell the more he thought about it; whatever stressed Wei Wuxian needed to be stopped, and if it were in his power to handle it, he wanted to wash it all away.

Finally, a little before 9pm, Wei Wuxian calls back. Lan Wangji immediately picks up the phone.

“Wei Ying.”

“Hey, Lan Zhan. I know your bedtime is coming up, so if you don’t want to talk anymore, I’d understand.”

“I want to stay awake with Wei Ying. Tell me what’s been bothering you. Please.”

It’s practically begging on Lan Wangji’s end, and he hopes he doesn’t chase Wei Wuxian away with his earnestness. Instead, Wei Wuxian gives that pained laugh again.

“Well, the long-short of it,” he replies, yawning. “Is that we found out two interesting things today. The first, is that there’s been a lead in the investigation into the burning of Lotus Pier. They don’t have proof, but there’s enough to suggest that Wen Ruohan and his ilk are involved.”

“Wen Ruohan?”

“Big media magnate. I’m sure your family has met him and his family, though I wouldn’t blame you if you erased it from your mind. And that leads into issue number two. We’re competing at his second son’s dance competition- Wen Chao’s.” Revulsion drips from Wei Wuxian’s tone. “Today, Mianmian received a couple disgusting messages from Wen Chao, followed by threats from his bitch of a girlfriend, Wang Lingjiao.”

Lan Wangji was familiar with Wen Chao- a greasy, uncouth sort of man that drank superfluously and deemed himself better than others to make up for a lack of true presence. Lan Qiren had once described him as ‘a degenerate, encouraged by the lack of his father’s discipline or concern’. Luckily, Lan Wangji did not attend upper-class parties very often, nor were they in the same circles (Lans were notoriously reclusive) so it did not really matter.

“I will not ask what kind of things were said- they do not deserve any more airspace. Mianmian does not deserve to be harassed in any way, and I am sorry she had to deal with that.”

“Lan Zhan, I don’t even want to repeat the things that were sent. She was almost inconsolable when she showed up to the studio today. Jiang Cheng, Wen Qing, and I were ready to go kick his ass, Wang Lingjiao’s ass, Wen Zhuliu’s, Wen Xu’s- the entire dance studio could have fought us. We almost made it out of the door today when Shijie and the peacock caught us. Luckily, they made us go to their house, along with everyone else, and we had to hash it out there. There were good snacks and drinks, so… we worked it out.”

That explained the three leaving in haste at the Cloud Recesses.

“And that’s not even the first time he’s done something like that, either! We went to college with that prick; it’s not the first time he’s targeted Mianmian. Wang Lingjiao was jealous back then, too. Can’t she see that she’s the only one that wants to be with that slimeball?”

“Report him to the police?”

He receives a derisive snort.

“You’re rich, but very cultured and sheltered, so I’m sure you think that is a reasonable response. As long as Wen Ruohan has money in his pockets, the police will never do anything against him or his sons. He made sure to tell me that the night he tried to mess with me.”

Mess with Wei Wuxian? “What do you mean, mess with you?”

“When we were in college, he made an excessively aggressive pass at me at a party. Of course, I know how to defend myself, and my friends were there with me, thank God. After trying to force himself on me, I told him I’d be reporting him to the cops. He laughed, drunk off his fucking ass, and told me that a, and I quote, ‘poor, adopted piece of trash made pretty by Jiang castoffs’ would never be able to stand against him and his daddy’s lawyers. Asshole. He wanted to fuck me so bad he looked stupid. Right, unfortunately, but stupid.”

Residual fear is in Wei Wuxian’s voice, and Lan Wangji feels a primal rage burning in his own heart. He only has a fuzzy image of the bastard in his mind, but he wants to reach out his hands and strangle it. Still, he has to stay calm.

“I bet you wouldn’t treat me that way, Lan er-gege,” Wei Wuxian teases mournfully. “You’d be so nice. Maybe even order me food before trying to get down my pants.”

Lan Wangji swallows, unsure of how to respond. “I would treat Wei Ying as he deserves.”

“According to Madame Yu, to be discarded on the side of the road.”

“Wei Ying does not deserve that. No one does. But you are too good, too kind, and too thoughtful to deserve anything other than the best.” The idea of anyone mistreating Wei Wuxian is incensing, let alone the idea that he himself would. But there is something else more pressing on Lan Wangji’s mind other than dating.

“Wei Ying shouldn’t go to the competition. Neither should Mianmian. None of you should. It isn’t safe.”

“Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian scoffs. “Don’t be ridiculous. We can’t just not go to the Nightless City Dance Off. Despite the shit dance abilities of the hosts, it’s one of the biggest dance competitions of the year. It’s Lotus Pier’s chance to really get on the map, make connections.”

“But what about your safety, Wei Ying?”

“We’ll protect Mianmian,” he dismisses. 

But what about you, Lan Wangji wanted to urge, though Mianmian’s safety was important as well. Though he wanted to push the issue, he could see that discouraging Wei Wuxian from going would not work, not when he had worked so hard and this event meant so much to him.

“I’m going with you,” he proclaims. The idea makes sense in his head and brings him some peace of mind. “I will help protect Wei Ying and everyone else.”

Wei Wuxian groans, a sound that had no right to be as titillating as it was. “You would do that for me, Lan Zhan? Big strong man to protect all of us?”

“Mn. Brother will help too.”

Soft chuckling follows his retort. “All right, Lan Zhan. I’d love to have you there. Besides, your brother will probably be there with Nie Mingjue, and Nie Mingjue is no wimp himself. I’d love to know who’d win in an arm-wrestling competition between the two of you.”

Lan Wangji still hasn’t met his brother’s new love interest, but he is thankful for the relief in Wei Wuxian’s voice. “Tell me about your pieces. About your group.”

“You sure, Lan Zhan?”

“Mn.” The YunmengJiang troupe brings Wei Wuxian happiness, and he wants to take his mind off of things.

“Well, to start, Lotus Pier Dance Hall is an eclectic group if you haven’t noticed. While we could work with just the people in Yunmeng, we want to make it available for everyone, because we’re all from different backgrounds. We’ve been a pretty strong friend group for a long time, and everyone pitched in, in some way, to make this a reality. Of course, because Jiang Cheng is bankrolling, he gets to be the leader, but I’m happy for him- it gives him a direction for all those tight-knit emotions. It’s also really adorable when I hug him in public, make the big, strong businessman look like he’s fifteen again. He loves me, it’s okay.”

The humor in Wei Wuxian’s voice is warm, and Lan Wangji feels like he’s settled into yet another story.

“We’re currently practicing for a pop music competition, with the theme being ‘Fight Night’ this year. I can send you videos, but you have to promise to delete them right after, and not share them with anyone. I’m serious. This is friendship-ending stuff right here.”  

“I will not share them. I will delete them.”

“Good! Okay. The first performance theme is ‘Ready to Rumble’, and Jiang Cheng and Mianmian are doing choreo to TKO by Justin Timberlake. They designed it themselves, and I’m really proud of them! Here-”

Lan Wangji pulls up the video, muting Wei Wuxian. The dance duet is smooth yet chaotic, the story of two people in a toxic relationship shown by the dangerous yet sensual closeness between the two of them. It’s interesting to watch Jiang Cheng dance as well; while he lacks the natural, relaxed form of his brother, it’s made up for with the amount of determination and sharpness in every move he makes.

I don't understand it

Tell me how could you be so low?

Been swinging after the bell and after all of the whistle blows

Tried to go below the belt, through my chest, perfect hit to the dome

Dammit, babe

This ain't the girl I used to know

No, not anymore

TKO-

Mianmian almost seems tiny in his presence, but not because she dances any less powerfully. Her movements are more fluid, and she uses Jiang Cheng’s energy and power to slide into and out of his arms, the illusion and momentum serving to show how untouchable she is despite his intentions. He watches as she slowly but surely lowers Jiang Cheng to her level, emerging the ‘victor’ in the fight. It’s overall a powerful piece. He deletes the video, clicking back to the call.

“Well, what did you think?”

“It was very good.”

“It is! I think their opposite energies really work well for the vibe they were going for in the song. The second theme is ‘No Personal Space’, and that’s the halftime. That’s where I’m going to perform your favorite, Lan Zhan! Surely I don’t need to send you that one again.”

Lan Wangji rolls his eyes, exerting all his control to not ask for the video anyway.

“Here’s my outfit for it. Shijie and Nie Huaisang helped me come up with it. Sex sells, especially in a grimy place like that, so…” His words trail off as he sends the picture. Lan Wangji almost faints when the picture arrives; red heels, followed by black leotard and red fishnet tights. There’s a fluffy red bunny tail on the back as well. The light-headed feeling is followed by a strange urge to bite, to run his hand up fishnet covered thighs and claim in front of all. No one in that seedy location deserved to even look at Wei Wuxian, let alone see him in this uniform.

And if he saw Wen Chao, he was going to give him two black eyes.

“Lan Zhan? You still there? You fall asleep?”

Shaking off the haze of lust, Lan Zhan murmurs an answer into the phone.

“Good, I thought you’d fallen asleep before the end! The last theme is ‘Under Pressure’, and that’s going to be Scream by Michael and Janet Jackson, performed by Wen Qing and Wen Ning. I designed that choreo myself after one really good bottle of wine, and it’s one of my personal favorites ever!”

“Are they related to the hosts?”

“Wen Qing and Wen Ning? Yeah, they’re like second cousins or something. Their family wanted nothing to do with Wen Ruohan after they realized he was in some shady shit, and after Wen Ning got into an altercation with Wen Chao they packed up and left. Extra blessed for us because they were the only Wens with decency and dancing talent. So, this is extra important for them; they get to toss a giant ‘fuck you’ into their Wen cousins’ faces when they kick ass at this competition!”

Lan Wangji clicks the video of the choreo, his eyes widening with every passing second.

With such confusion don't it make you wanna scream

Your bash abusin' victimize within the scheme

You find your pleasure scandalizin' every lie

Oh father, please have mercy 'cause

I just can't take it

Stop pressurin' me, just stop pressurin' me

Stop pressurin' me, make me wanna scream

Stop pressurin' me, just stop pressurin' with me

Stop fuckin' with me, make me wanna scream-

Both siblings move with a sort of possessed focus, their eyes flashing as they hit every move together. Their ferocity is terrifying as they claim every inch of the floor, their bodies constantly bouncing to the beat. It’s an exhausting routine, but as cathartic as the song behind it. When the breakdown hits, they both begin to do two different choreographies, but somehow force the viewer to look at both, in sync like a clock. They come back together by the chorus, moving as if they’d never separated. It’s extremely well done, the ‘fuck you’ Wei Wuxian desired clearly spoken. It’s truly a show-stopping performance.

“Wei Ying… it’s amazing. Stellar design.”

“Aww, Lan Zhan! You flatter me!”

No… I’m not. “It is good work. I am- surprised at Wen Ning’s intensity.”

Wei Wuxian laughs boisterously. “Oh, why? Because Wen Ning is so shy? He really is a sweet guy, but there’s a fierce soul in there. He performed with me at that competition in Yiling. They called him my ‘Ghost General’, because for everything that I did, he backed up so well. He’s a kick ass dancer, I’d say one of our best. He’s just so… he doesn’t like conflict. Or confrontation. He’s not really competitive by nature, he does it for the love of the dance, but I love the guy for it. He can teach the kids.”

Ignoring how he felt when he heard Wei Wuxian proclaim love for the mild-mannered man, Lan Wangji urges him to continue.  

“Nie Huaisang isn’t very physically inclined, but he more than makes up for it as our social media guru. People underestimate him, especially in comparison to his older brother, but he’s really a political genius. He’s essentially our networker and presents the face of Lotus Pier on all our accounts. A-Sang’s a little scary when it comes to the business, never exactly tells everyone the deep details of those ‘phone calls’, but whenever we need something… he comes through. Locations, competitions, wardrobe- everything. He’s the one who slipped the idea of renting at Cloud Recesses to Uncle Jiang.”

Remembering Nie Huaisang’s intelligent eyes behind his smartphone, Lan Wangji can believe it. He’ll have to make sure not to cross him.

“And then last, but certainly not least, Shijie! Shijie can sing, but she doesn’t prefer to perform. I used to have a clip of her singing Genie in a Bottle, but I lost it while cleaning up my phone! But boy, can she sing! Better than Christina, in my opinion! And you probably wouldn’t think that, given how tiny she is and how softly she speaks, but it’s true! The peacock claims that he fell in love with her singing, which sure he would- who wouldn’t? But he also wasn’t shit for years when we went to school, and I happily admit I throttled him a couple times. I still think he doesn’t deserve her, but he makes her happy, and they produced my lovely, snotty nephew whom I love dearly and make sure to teach right.”

Wei Wuxian seems fairly excited, both to adore his sister and to trash-talk her husband, and Lan Wangji tries to keep up, but his body shudders, causing him to drop the phone. He picks it up and looks at the time- 10:30pm. He feels his eyes closing, trying, and failing to fight his internal clock. Though he tries to hold it in, he yawns.

“You must be tired, Lan Zhan. Sorry for keeping you up.”

“Anything for Wei Ying,” he replies, feelings bypassing his filter.

“You know, I’d love to see some of your pieces. I know you practice on Saturdays, but I would love to go to a real ballet and see you perform. I want to see Swan Lake, or The Nutcracker. I really want to see that one around the holidays.”

That wasn’t impossible to accomplish; it was the beginning of the fall show season right now, meaning that practices for The Nutcracker in the winter season would begin soon, should Lan Wangji compete for that position. A fire lights in his heart, the passion to perform rekindled.

“Then I’ll audition for the role of the Nutcracker, and you can come see me perform.” If that was what Wei Wuxian wanted, it was in his power to provide.  

“You say that so confidently, Lan Zhan.”

“I am confident in my skills. Wei Ying wants to see a ballet; I will dance for him in one.”

“And if I asked Lan Zhan to grab me the moon, next?”

He sounds so hopeful, yet ready to be refused, and Lan Wangji finds himself earnestly serious in his response.

“I would tell Wei Ying to give me some time, and he would have it.”

There’s a moment of silence between them before Wei Wuxian takes a deep breath.

“Hey, Lan Zhan… would you be interested in getting coffee with me? After your Saturday practice in two days, I mean. It would be fun.”

“I-” Lan Wangji’s brain disconnects. “I prefer tea over coffee.”

“I’m sure we can order you some tea, too.”

“Okay. I look forward to it then. Goodnight, Wei Ying.”

“Okay.” Wei Wuxian yawns as well. “I’m gonna go to sleep now, too. Long day. Night, Lan Zhan, love you.”

The entire world comes to a pause, and Lan Wangji shoots up in bed, exhaustion gone. What did he just say? Before he can question it, the call has been disconnected.

Wei Ying.

Wei Ying come back!

Wei Ying said he loved me.

He said he loved me!

!!!

Perhaps it was an accident. Many people would say things like that, perhaps he did that with family members out of comfort during phone calls and unintentionally did it with Lan Wangji.

But what if it wasn’t?

He finds himself calling his brother, who is surprisingly still awake.

“Wangji?” Lan Xichen panics. “Is it an emergency? Where do you need me to meet you?”

“…no, brother. I called to tell you…” That Wei Wuxian told me he loved me, accidentally or not! “That I have a coffee date with Wei Ying.”

“This is great news, didi! I’m so happy for you- you’ve been talking to each other for weeks, now! Would you like to make it a double date, with me and Mingjue-ge?”

This date was for he and Wei Wuxian alone, and he didn’t want to spend it under the smug eye of his brother. “No thank you. Goodnight, brother.”

“Very well. Goodnight, Wangji!”

Lan Wangji closed his eyes and began to hum meditations until he fell asleep, trying to push down his excitement.

Wei Wuxian screamed into his pillow until he was breathless.

Love you?!

He couldn’t go back into the studio until Saturday. There was absolutely no way he could show his shameless face to Lan Wangji after this. Fuck it, he might as well confess!

He can’t do it. He can’t confess!

Freshly awake and stressed out about something new, he calls Nie Huaisang and Jiang Cheng on three-way.

“This better be good, asshole. I was in the middle of a movie.”

“Wei Wuxian? Why are you calling us both when you know texting in the group chat is easier?”

“… You both are already useless. I’ll call somebody else. Bye!”

“What the-”

He dials Jiang Yanli’s number quickly. His Shijie would know what to do.

“A-Xian? Is everything all right?”

“Shijie! I accidentally told Lan Zhan I loved him and I hung up and we have a date on Saturday! I need advice! About Lan Zhan, about love, about everything!”

Jiang Yanli giggles. “Okay, I’m ready. Tell me all about it.”

Lan Wangji picks at himself that Saturday afternoon, searching for any imperfections. His reflection stares back from his body length heirloom mirror, expression impassive except for the worry in his eyes. Thank goodness, and thank Lan Xichen, for the fact that he even had the damn thing- it fit Lan Wangji’s tall frame, with wheels just in case he needs to move it to different lighting for viewing costumes, makeup, or for dinner first dates with your crush.

When Wei Wuxian had texted him Friday night requesting that their coffee date become a dinner date, Lan Wangji panicked- especially when Wei Wuxian’s texts had been apologetic, yet brusque, brooking no conversation. A coffee date was a simple affair- simply walking to a café after practice. Dinner was more serious. Dinner meant that he had to present in a certain way. He made sure to thoroughly scrub every inch of his body, followed by a fresh deodorant and lotion, and his sandalwood and eucalyptus cologne. After many debated outfits (he really needed to try new color schemes) he settled on a white undershirt, a light blue jacket, snug blue jeans, and white Sperry’s. A pristine bun and a sweep of black mascara complete the look.

Lan Wangji is determined to sweep Wei Wuxian off of his feet (and perhaps solidify that slip from their last conversation), and that means he’s going to look and act the part, nerves be damned. He grabs his keys and heads to his car.

It’s near 5:30pm when he pulls up next to the texted address. It’s my Shijie’s house, a little out of town near the Jins, Wei Wuxian had said. He neglected to warn Lan Wangji that there were sprawling lands in the front, and a long driveway that had to be navigated in order to find the marble stairs leading up to the mansion. Lan Wangji knew money, had been raised in it, but where the Lans had been austere, it was clear the Jins were ostentatious in every way. In the front stands a bouncy Wei Wuxian, Jiang Yanli gently holding his arm by his side. Lan Wangji swallows, putting the car in park as he gets out to open the door.

Wei Wuxian is wearing a soft red knit sweater that is slightly too large, so it exposes a little of his shoulders. His black jeggings are well fitting, finished with red velvet boots with gold shoestrings. His hairstyle is new, with half of it up and half of it falling down over his shoulders, and when Lan Wangji gets closer, he can see that Wei Wuxian wears red smoky eye makeup.

Bewitching.  

Lan Wangji is happily under that spell.

“Shijie, he got out of the car to open the door for me! No one has ever done this!” Wei Wuxian exclaims as he tosses on a small black bag, making puppy dog eyes at his sister. Jiang Yanli giggles, patting him before letting go.

“Only the best of gentleman for my A-Xian. Have fun on your date.”

Wei Wuxian practically skips into Lan Wangji’s arms.

“Mm… you smell amazing, Lan Zhan. Such a relaxing smell.”  

He beams at him before he jumps in the front. Ears red, Lan Wangji turns to see Jiang Yanli still staring at him, defiant expression similar to that of her blood brother.

“You treat A-Xian well, and bring him home safe, Hanguang Jun. He’s a good man, with a large heart, and he cares very much for you.” The glint in her eyes alert him to her unspoken threat, and Lan Wangji bows. She smiles then, and waves goodbye at a confused Wei Wuxian. When Lan Wangji pulls off, he sees Jin Ling scramble down the stairs, taking a picture of his car. He knows he’s going to receive funny looks from Sizhui and Jingyi when he returns to the Cloud Recesses.

“Lan Zhan! I’m so excited! And don’t you look so handsome! Wow!” Wei Wuxian’s excitement is contagious, and Lan Wangji lets a small smile slip.

“Wei Ying looks handsome as well. Your eyeshadow is radiant.”

“Really? I was afraid it was too much, but Shijie said that she thinks it completes the look.”

“She is correct. It makes your eyes stand out even more.”

Wei Wuxian turns back to him, batting his eyelashes. “Does Lan Zhan love my silver eyes?” he flirts noncommittedly.

Lan Wangji waits until he hits a red light, and turns to stare Wei Wuxian directly in his eyes, molten gold into molten silver. I love Wei Ying’s eyes. I want them only on me.

“Mn.”

Flustered by his intensity, Wei Wuxian flips his hair, before beginning to babble about something else. Somehow, Lan Wangji safely makes it to the pizza place that Wei Wuxian suggested, and manages to find a parking spot a block down the road. He steps out quickly, making it to Wei Wuxian’s door to open it for him.

“You’re such a gentleman, er-gege. Shijie was right about that. You have to let me pay for dinner, since you got us here so safely and are paying for parking.”

Lan Wangji takes his card out of the meter, opts for two hours, and then shakes his head.

“I’ll pay.”

Pouting, Wei Wuxian folds his arms. “Lan Zhan! You can’t do everything tonight. I can’t only be eye candy; I have to do something.”

“Being eye candy is hard work.”

Mouth dropped, Wei Wuxian playfully pokes Lan Wangji in the side as they begin to walk to the pizza place. When they step in from the street, the delicious smells of marinara and garlic bread immediately hit them. The burgundy walls, dark green plants, and warm lighting provide a cozy atmosphere, and a hostess is quick to take them to a small booth. Wei Wuxian lifts up the drink menu to the side and begins to scan it.

“Do you want to know another reason I chose this place, Lan Zhan?”

“Other than their spicy pizzas?”

“Yes! If you notice, we’re back in Gusu, near your side of town, right?”

“Mn. Caiyi.”

“Well, this place is one of the few places in Gusu that sells Emperor’s Smile! It’s this lovely wine that I tried when we first started practicing at the Cloud Recesses- it’s the one that I told you about when I choreographed Wen Qing and Wen Ning’s dance? Truly inspirational.”

“I imagine so.”

A waiter comes back to take their drink orders, and Wei Wuxian goes to order a glass. Lan Wangji orders a water, and politely asks that the glass of Emperor’s Smile be brought with the bottle, if possible. It’s not a cheap bottle of wine, and the waiter leaves with a glance of respect while Wei Wuxian gapes.

“Lan Zhan! Stop it!” he squeaks, twisting his hair in his hands. “You spoil me!”

Yes. “Mn.”

“I have to go pee,” he suddenly announces, running to the bathroom. A few minutes later he returns, sitting down in a huff.

“Wei Ying?”

“I’m fine, I’m fine.” Red, Wei Wuxian flips the menu into his face, mumbling to himself. Suddenly, he flips the menu back down, face ashamed.

“Oh my god, you said you’re vegetarian! They’ve only got like…two veggie pizzas and then salads! Does that make you uncomfortable? Lan Zhan, do you want to leave? I can’t believe I didn’t consider you-”

“Wei Ying. Hush. I scanned the menu before we arrived. The honey arugula pizza will be fine.”

The waiter arrives with their drinks, and they go ahead and order their food. Wei Wuxian opts for double pepperoni and pineapples, with their spicy marinara sauce, and Lan Wangji orders the honey arugula with feta cheese and tomatoes. As soon as the waiter leaves again, Wei Wuxian pours himself a full glass of the Emperor’s Smile, gulping it down. Lan Wangji grimaces, pushing forward the extra glass of water. If he’d known Wei Wuxian would drink the bottle so quickly…

“No, no, I need a drink,” Wei Wuxian murmurs. His body shivers, and his forehead has a light sheen.

“Wei Ying- do you feel okay? Do you want to go home?” It would be terrible luck for him to fall ill, but Lan Wangji doesn’t want Wei Wuxian to pass out, as faint as he looks.

“No, Lan Zhan. I’m just…nervous. I’m sitting across from the world’s most perfect man, and I can’t even keep it together!”

He tips back another glass of wine, and seems to gather his wits afterwards, before smiling a little sloppily at Lan Wangji, who’s still flustered by his compliment. It’s a luscious look- his cheeks slightly pink, hair mildly disheveled, his lips wet from licking them. Wei Wuxian has no idea how he affects him, and it’s almost unfair.

“So,” he rasps, “have things been better since we last spoke?”

Wei Wuxian’s eyes roll to the ceiling.

“Well,” he sighs, placing his head on his hand. “No, to be honest. Madame Yu had a shouting match with me yesterday, which means that she shouted shit at me while I sat there and took it like I always do. I went to spend the night at Shijie’s afterwards, because she was worried I might jump off a roof or something.”

“Wei Ying.”

Wei Wuxian raises his hands. “All right, I’m exaggerating a little. On the roof thing I mean, but Madame Yu did upset me pretty badly so Shijie had me pack a quick bag of my stuff and stay in one of her guest rooms. I could hardly sleep, which is why she suggested I postpone our date so that I could take the time I needed to get some rest. She was right, you know. I felt much better, and now we’re here, sipping good wine and eating good pizza.”

The idea of Wei Wuxian curling up miserably, having to hide away from his own aunt, perturbs Lan Wangji. As strict as Lan Qiren was, he was never intentionally cruel to him or his brother.

“She should not treat her adopted child this way. You are an adult, and a human being.”

Scoffing, Wei Wuxian sips from a third cup of wine. “I’m not hers in any way, and she makes sure to let me, Jiang Cheng, Shijie, and the entire aristocracy know it. Uncle Jiang was the one who adopted me after my parents died in an accident. He was a close friend of my parents and took me in from the street.”

“Why does she spite you?”

“For existing, really. This time, she insinuated that it was my fault that Lotus Pier burned- that perhaps I’d ‘played too many games with the wrong people’. It doesn’t even make any sense and thank fuck that I’m finally old enough to see through her gaslighting and general bullshit.” He takes another sip, and shrugs. “She just hates me because she hated my mother. Something to do with an art school competition and potentially my Uncle Jiang’s past romantic feelings for her. Uncle Jiang, who is not my father, by the way. That one’s getting really fucking old.”

They are interrupted by the waiter, who lays the small, mouthwatering pizzas in front of them with a flourish.

“Try a piece, Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian holds out a slice of his own pizza, and Lan Wangji leans forward to bite. He immediately regrets it, reaching for his water glass. Wei Wuxian giggles, taking a bite out of the same slice. Lan Wangji pretends the scalding heat is causing the majority of his blush, and not Wei Wuxian’s tongue wrapping around the dripping cheese.

“You knew it would be hot, and yet you did it so easily anyway.”

“Will try anything once for Wei Ying,” he rasps.

Peering from under his lashes, Wei Wuxian smiles shyly, as if there’s something Lan Wangji has missed. “Eat your food, Lan Zhan.”

Lan Wangji obeys, noticing nothing amiss until his third slice when he looks up at a confused Wei Wuxian.

“You’ve just been so quiet.”

“No talking during meals.” The response is knee-jerk, after years of training by his uncle’s side. Wei Wuxian only nods and looks down to his food. Lan Wangji supposes he can let up on the rule for tonight. He’s already flouted so many for this man, what’s one more?

“Tell me what who have to look out for to when we go to Nightless City. I want to be prepared.”

Wei Wuxian groans in exasperation, gaining back some of the dramatic energy that Lan Wangji adored.

“Okay, well, to summarize- QishanWen, Nightless City Studio. I told you about Wen Chao and Wang Lingjiao, so I won’t bring them up again and upset our stomachs. We do need to watch out for Wen Zhuliu- he’s their family bodyguard, and I’m pretty sure he’s killed people. Scary guy. Wen Xu is Wen Chao’s older brother, and he’s… something’s off about him. In that ‘I drown cats’ way.”

He seems to be waiting for some sort of indication that Lan Wangji is listening, so he ‘Mn’s and continues eating.

“Their dad, Wen Ruohan, funds the whole thing. It’s the only reason Nightless City is even still open, despite its terrible reviews. I swear that it’s money laundering, but who can prove it? He’s in multimedia, advertising news, sports, and the arts. It’s all biased trash in my opinion, but people drink it up and they make millions off of it. I hope that Nie Mingjue outdoes him one day; the QingheNie run a smaller multimedia corporation, specializing in all kinds of sports. Nie Huaisang wants to introduce new concepts, such as the arts, music, and fashion, but Nie Mingjue has been a little… stubborn about it. Maybe Lan Xichen can help bring him around, you know?”

Lan Wangji nods, finishing his last slice of pizza. If anyone could convince anyone good of anything, it was his brother. Lan Xichen had an honest, yet kind way of putting things in a way that anyone with good intentions and intelligence could see the benefit of his ideas. Hopefully this Nie Mingjue was only stubborn, and not unkind or stupid.

“It’s another reason why he’s been invited to the dance off. Nie Huaisang wants him to see that he’s not just ‘trifling away’ with silly things, but is actually contributing to something great that’s worth looking into and investing in. We all have something we want to get out of this, really. It’s why it’s so important for us to go.”

Lan Wangji still questions their safety in entering such a place, but these seem to be the only real threats in Wei Wuxian’s eyes.

“Do you want some dessert, Lan Zhan? They have really good ice cream and brownies here!”

Wei Wuxian’s plate is still half full, though the wine bottle is empty.

“Wei Ying- you should eat.”

“I’m not really all that hungry, Lan Zhan. Nerves, you know. I’ll get it in a box to go and put it in your car. You’ll have to deal with the spicy pepperoni smell in there, but I’m sure you can just spray a little Lan Zhan cologne and it’ll be good as new.”

“It is sandalwood and eucalyptus.”

“It’s heavenly is what it is,” Wei Wuxian murmurs under his breath, tossing the last of his drink back.

Lan Wangji requests the check from the waiter, as well as a box to go. Wei Wuxian sighs as they step out into the cool air, then shivers, huddling into Lan Wangji’s side.

“It’s chilly, Lan er-gege,” he whines, snuggling in. “You have to keep me warm.”

Lan Wangji tests this new arrangement by tightening his arm around Wei Wuxian’s waist, resulting in a small gasp, and walks them to the car. After helping him in, Lan Wangji places the pizza in the back, and then surreptitiously sneaks a smell of his sleeve. Wei Wuxian smells of cinnamon and vanilla, and it is exquisite.

“Hey, Lan Zhan? Would you be interested in going to a dance club with me? There’s one about two blocks from here, and it’s pretty fun! The crew and I have gone a few times, kicked back and relaxed.”

“Mn.”  

He allows Wei Wuxian to pull up the address on his phone as he pulls out of the parking space. A couple minutes later, he pulls up to the club and observes a line leading around the block. Lan Wangji understands patience, has practiced it his whole life, but the idea of standing in that long line and squeezing in amongst all those sweaty people just seems so undesirable. Still, if this is what Wei Wuxian wants…

“Lan Zhan. You look like I’m leading you to the chair with that expression. You can say no to me, er-gege. I won’t cry.”

“Don’t want to say no to Wei Ying.”

“But do you want to go in there?”

Lans don’t lie. “No.”

“Then we won’t go, Lan Zhan. It’s okay to talk to me. I’ll do whatever makes you happy.”

If Wei Wuxian knew what would make Lan Wangji happy, would he leave? Would he think the overwhelming passion was creepy, that his barely controlled lust was disgusting?

“How about the park across the way? It’s lovely in the evening; I think it even has little lights on the public pathways. Jiang Cheng and I went running out here one night.”

Lan Wangji assents, driving down and parking. “Can you walk?”

There’s a moment’s pause, before Wei Wuxian’s silent snickering becomes full blown laughter.

“Oh, Lan Zhan,” he says, wiping tears. “It takes a lot more than one bottle of summer wine to get me drunk. I’m only a little tipsy, not nearly enough for where I want to be.”

“And where does Wei Ying want to be?”

The question seems to throw Wei Wuxian, who flushes deeply. “That’s- not what I meant.”

Then what did you mean, Lan Wangji wonders. This time he can’t get out fast enough before Wei Wuxian gets out of the car. The moment he steps out, he trips, and there’s a moment where he stiffens.

“Are you going to be sick?”

Wei Wuxian straightens up, smiling. “Not sick! Just a little dizzy, is all!” His cheeks are still red, which is concerning, but Lan Wangji decides to let it go for now. He holds out an arm.

“Hold onto me. So that you don’t trip anymore.”

When Wei Wuxian wavers in front of him, Lan Wangji gently grabs his hand and places it around his arm, pulling him close. With a small whimper, Wei Wuxian leans into him.

“Thank you, Lan Zhan. For making me feel safe. For wanting me around.”

“Of course.”

The sun is beginning to go down, but the park path is full of light. Small lights are embedded in the cement path, with lanterns hanging down low on each side. While the outside of the park is covered in grasses and trees, the inside has branching streams, with wooden bridges crossing over each one. The middle holds a large, man-made koi pond, with the gigantic fish following any and all donators of bread and fish food. The lanterns wrap all around it, and with the stars beginning to come out, it sparkles on the surface. Other couples walk around it languidly, holding hands, talking amongst themselves. Some people even have children, who squeal in delight at the gluttonous koi.

Standing still, Lan Wangji takes in the sight, his heart warming.

“Isn’t it beautiful, Lan Zhan?”

“Mn. Never seen it like this before.”

Wei Wuxian turns to face him, eyebrow raised. “Really? You’ve never been at night?”

“No. No reason to.” Lan Wangji caresses Wei Wuxian’s cheek. “Wei Ying truly reveals beauty wherever he is.”

“I-! Lan Zhan! You can’t just say things like that! Let’s walk!”

Despite his flustered tone, Wei Wuxian seems pleased as he grabs Lan Wangji’s hand. For about twenty minutes they simply walk, murmuring conversation and enjoying the ambience. They end up on the topic of dance again, and Wei Wuxian excitedly pulls out his phone.

“I found some other dance videos we’ve done! There’s a duet with Mianmian and Wen Qing, for Maneater; that was back when we were all still meeting at the Burial Mounds Community Center in Yiling. We were such babies!” The video background shows a small gym practice room, with a speaker echoing across as Mianmian and Wen Qing dance a minute into the song before applause erupts around them.

“Oooh, and then this one! Wen Qing and I worked on this one together; it’s a team dance! If You Seek Amy was one of our first team choreographies that we ever designed!”

All of the YunmengJiang team danced in sync, except for Wen Qing, who very smugly danced through and around them. Whenever she moved, whenever she was nearby, the nearby dancers would fall all over her, though in line with the dance, as if they simply could not get enough of her.

“For obvious reasons, this one is one of Qing-jie’s favorites. Mine too!”

A small smile slips from Lan Wangji. “All of them are your favorite, Wei Ying.”

“Well, I can’t help it, Lan Zhan! I just love dance so much!”

Finally, after the third round around the pond, a red-faced Wei Wuxian tugs him toward a bench.

“Sorry, Lan Zhan, I just need to sit for a second.”

Concerned, Lan Wangji feels his forehead. “You’re running a little hot, Wei Ying. This has lasted long enough. We need to leave.”

“I’m not sick!”

“Something is wrong.”

Wei Wuxian scowls, folding his arms. “No, it isn’t. I’m not ready to leave. I told you-”

“Whatever it is can wait-”

“It- it’s you, Lan Zhan!”

Time pauses, and Lan Wangji can feel his expression sinking in a potent combination of horror, disappointment, and sadness. What did he do? Realizing what he’s said, Wei Wuxian jumps up, waving his hands to placate him.

“No, I didn’t mean it like that, Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian begins to pace back and forth, full of nervous, frustrated energy. “It’s not a bad thing! You- you’ve been so wonderful tonight, and I am having such a good time, it’s just that I have so many thoughts swirling around in my head and it’s hard to keep focused! And I want to keep focused on you, because I don’t want to think of anyone or anything else other than you, but then I get overwhelmed by those emotions too! Also, frankly I made a bad choice earlier, and at this moment I would give anything to do more than hold your hand or to walk by your side. I want to be held, for so many reasons I’ve wanted to be held by you for so long, and the temptation is killing me-”

He’s interrupted when Lan Wangji approaches him, reaching around the small of his back and pulling him into a tight embrace.

“What else do you need from me, Wei Ying?” he whispers, looking down into shivering eyes.

“Please kiss me, Lan Zhan, before I lose my goddamn mind.”

Moving a hand into Wei Wuxian’s dark hair, he pulls his lips gently to his. The first few touches of their lips are tentative, as if they’re giving each other the option to pull away. But then Wei Wuxian sighs into the kiss, allowing Lan Wangji to tilt his own head and move in deeper. He wraps his arms around Lan Wangji’s neck, pulling him as close as humanly possible as they forego air in exchange for passion, only taking quick gasps in order to keep chasing their other’s lips. It takes everything in Lan Wangji to pull away, decency reminding him that these sorts of lewd kisses were not the type that should be in the public view. Lips still kiss-bitten red, Wei Wuxian beams, drunk off of the bliss he feels.

“You want to know the thing I did, earlier?” He leans in close to Lan Wangji, whispering right at his ear and sending shivers down his spine. “Well, picking me up, you looked so fucking hot- ass in jeans like this, and this tight t-shirt, should be illegal. And you held open the door? Swoon. And then, at the restaurant. You bought the entire bottle of wine, and you didn’t even look at the price. Got my favorite, unbothered, just like that. I know all this seems so shallow, but I just… I went right back into the bathroom, and-”

As he speaks, he moves Lan Wangji’s hand, and when he draws his finger down to his cleft, Lan Wangji stops breathing. The jeggings are a soft enough fabric that he can feel right through to the piece of soft plastic.

“Shameless,” he exhales, closing his eyes.

“You like me shameless, don’t you?” Wei Wuxian flirts, desire dripping from his tone.

“I love you, especially when you’re shameless.”

The words had slipped out without warning, and Lan Wangji almost snapped out of his lustful haze in apology. He’s quickly drawn back in when Wei Wuxian rushes back in for another vehement kiss, pulling apart again only to groan.

“Lan Zhan loves me too, I can’t believe it,” Wei Wuxian moans quietly, twitching. “Thank goodness for this oversized sweater because it’s indecent how hard I am right now. I’d planned this whole confession at the dance club, you know. I suggested the walk when you weren’t comfortable in order to stall, and I just got much more nervous, and this ‘situation’ was not helping. Stupid plan, right?”

“Come home with me.”

Ears red and pupils blown so wide the gold is nearly gone, Lan Wangji is only barely holding on.

“You don’t want to just pull me into the bushes over there? The dance club idea was just to blow you in an alley, I truly didn’t get that far into the plan.”

In an alley? Did Wei Wuxian really think Lan Wangji thought so low of him? He just told him he loved him, and while he wasn’t above that plan, this was not the time.

“In my bed, Wei Ying.”

Plying Wei Wuxian with greedy kisses under his chin and moving further down, Lan Wangji only stops when Wei Wuxian grasps the back of his shirt, laughing licentiously.

“Well, if that’s what you want, er-gege, my love, you’ll need to stop right now, or I won’t make it that far.”

They’re practically throwing off articles of clothing the moment Lan Wangji’s front door closes- it’s the most mess this townhouse has ever seen. Wei Wuxian writhes against the wall as Lan Wangji pulls the sweater over his head, kissing down, wrapping a tongue around one of his nipples. As he blows cool air onto the red nub, his other hand moves down, inside of his leggings to squeeze a cheek- hard. Gasping in response, Wei Wuxian pushes at Lan Wangji’s chest, only to forcefully push him against the wall. Falling to his knees, he roughly opens Lan Wangji’s fly and yanks his pants down. When he’s flying free, Wei Wuxian blinks a couple times.

“Goddamn, Hanguang Jun. Do the ballet critics know what’s under that leotard?”

Flushing, Lan Wangji tightens his fists to avoid wrapping them in Wei Wuxian’s hair. “No. Only Wei Ying.”

Grinning, Wei Wuxian licks the dewy tip, followed by a stripe up the entire shaft, and it leaves Lan Wangji squirming for more. He starts to go to town on Lan Wangji’s dick, the slick, sloppy noises almost pushing him over the edge in a couple thrusts. Forcing his eyes open, he looks down to see Wei Wuxian’s lips wrapped around him, feels his tongue playing near the hilt. They lock eyes, and Wei Wuxian hums, causing Lan Wangji to flinch. Before he can explode, he quickly pulls Wei Wuxian off, tasting himself mildly as they kiss once more.

He’s about to toss caution to the wind and fuck him right there, when he hears a couple strained chirps from beneath him. In horror, they both turn to see Bichen’s rabbit enclosure, the bunny giving them odd looks as she stands in front of her automatic feeder.

“Shit.”

“Oh, Lan Zhan!” Wei Wuxian coos, kneeling down in front of the enclosure. “Is this Bichen? Hi, baby girl!”

It’s already embarrassing enough that his sweet baby bunny has witness Lan Wangji and a new person in such a state, but seeing Wei Wuxian shamelessly bend his ass into the air like that, back arched just right, leaves him insatiable. He rushes forward, sweeping a shocked Wei Wuxian into his arms with a quick ‘Sorry’ to Bichen.

Wei Wuxian is giggling uncontrollably when Lan Wangji flops him back onto the bed, the laughter turning into blissed, lustful sighs when Lan Wangji kisses him. After a couple kisses, he covers his mouth, blocking Lan Wangji.

“Lan Zhan, pause. First, I need my phone. I have a playlist of songs for this. I also need my bag, which has the lube and condoms.”

Lan Wangji does as he asks, giving him a bemused look as he dumps out what he needs.

“I didn’t want to call us a foregone conclusion, but it was easier to be safer than sorry. Because I really hoped it would lead to this.”

The lull in emotions gives Lan Wangji enough time to recognize his own insecurities- he’s never done anything like this. His face must reflect his feelings because a firm hand gives him pause. Wei Wuxian is smiling warmly at him.

“I trust you, Lan Zhan. As long as you communicate with me, we’ll be all right. Okay?”

“Mn. I trust you, Wei Ying.”

“All right. So, Lan Zhan- what do you want from this? I’m curious.”

As he thinks, Wei Wuxian begins to play with his hand, kissing the palm and looking at him.

“I want Wei Ying to be comfortable. To melt under my hands. To give me his noises. To be mine.”

Wei Wuxian falls back into Lan Wangji’s pillows, and glances at him, placing his now-playing phone onto the nightstand. 

“Really, Lan Zhan. I’m going to have to get you a gag, you just can’t be allowed to say things like this! It’s too romantic!”

“…I would not like a gag. But if that’s what you would like…”

Wei Wuxian chortles. “Well… Wei Ying would be more comfortable if Lan Zhan prepped him gently. And I promise, if Lan er-gege does me just right, I’ll make all the sounds he wants and more.”

Nodding, Lan Wangji pulls the rest of their clothes off, and reaches for the lube that Wei Wuxian plopped onto the bed. Placing some onto his fingers, he rubs it together for warmth, and sticks one inside of Wei Wuxian. Wei Wuxian hisses in response, and scared, Lan Wangji almost pulls back.

“No! No, it’s okay, Lan Zhan. Just be gentle. You can touch me too, you know. You’ll make me feel self-conscious- is the illustrious Hanguang Jun not pleased with my body?”

“Foolish.”

Feeling more relaxed, Lan Wangji begins to caress Wei Wuxian’s body as he thrusts gently, exploring every part of the soft sculpt that he can. There’s a sun tattoo on one of his pecs, and a surgical scar in the middle of his chest. He’ll have to ask about these more private moments later, but for now Lan Wangji leaves open mouthed kisses on both, and Wei Wuxian melts.

“Okay, you can put in another.”

“How do you know so much?” It’s an intrusive question, even more so when Lan Wangji is placing a second finger inside Wei Wuxian’s body, but luckily it is taken well.

“Fantasy, Lan Zhan. Fantasy, research, and self-exploration. I’ve dreamt of this moment. Come a little closer to me, er-gege.”

Lan Wangji groans when a hand wraps around his length, and all of the sensitivity from earlier comes rushing back as Wei Wuxian begins to stroke him expertly. Three fingers and an on-edge Lan Wangji later, Wei Wuxian is finally ready.

“Can I ask you one more thing, Lan Zhan?”

“Anything.” His voice is strained, but he means it.

“Bring that mirror over here.”

Awkwardly, Lan Wangji stumbles to the large mirror, pulling it to the bedside. Is Wei Wuxian worried about his body? Instead, he sprawls lasciviously in front of it, posture emulating that of in front of Bichen’s enclosure.

“Listen to me, Lan er-gege. I want you to pretend that you’re taking me in the Cloud Recesses.”

Lan Wangji inhales sharply. Thick, dark hair falls over Wei Wuxian’s shoulders as his eyes sear into him, beckoning him forward. Lan Wangji obeys. 

“Every time you’re in that studio, every time you look at your reflection, I want you to remember this. I want you to remember me.”

Lan Wangji is draped over him, hands moving possessively down his body, his mind surely emptying the moment Wei Wuxian begins to grind into him.

“I want you to see me, to see yourself, see us as we come together.”

The intimacy of it alone is almost enough for Lan Wangji to come. Connecting with Wei Wuxian through the mirror, watching how his own eyes gleam with a lustful possessiveness that has been swimming behind them for weeks as he secretly longed for the passionate dancer. He grabs the lube, squeezing out a generous amount onto both of them.

Biting hard into Wei Wuxian’s shoulder, Lan Wangji uses his surprise as a moment to drive in completely. Wei Wuxian’s cry almost makes him regret the choice, but it’s hard to focus when he’s surrounded by tight warmth.

“Fuck me, make me scream for you, please.”

Lan Wangji thrusts again, and again, and soon he’s pushing in a harsh, punishing rhythm. Wei Wuxian’s face contorts with pleasure, his head dropping. Wrapping a hand in his hair, Lan Wangji pulls it back- gently so as to not hurt him, but hard enough that an erotic moan slips from Wei Wuxian’s mouth.

“Wei Ying wanted to watch. See what I do to him. Watch.”

“Oh, god, yes, just like that, Hanguang Jun~”

Wei Wuxian promised all his noises if Lan Wangji pleasured him, and he delivers- his impassioned wails echo throughout the townhouse, leaving no space untouched by how pleased he was with Lan Wangji’s performance. At some point, he begins to move so earnestly that Wei Wuxian loses strength in his arms and falls nearly off the bed, his arms now trapped off of the side. Lan Wangji pins his chest to the bed, rolling his hips smoothly. Wei Wuxian can’t touch himself, forced to grasp the comforter in boiling ecstasy. He begins to weep, begging to be allowed to touch, praising Lan Wangji for his skills.

“Oh, er-gege, I never thought you could be so cruel-”

“It’s just how I wanted it, yes-”

Both of them are close to orgasm when a familiar beat plays. The opening lines to Hands on Me sing through the room as they pause to breathe.

“Lan Zhan, did you just get harder? Oh yes. Lan Zhan, please get off of me.”

Wei Wuxian’s tone is serious, and Lan Wangji loosens his grip. When he leans up, he doesn’t separate from Lan Wangji, but clenches a hand in Lan Wangji’s hair and begins to grind down to the beat.

“Dance with me, er-gege.”

Lan Wangji wraps a supporting hand around Wei Wuxian’s chest and begins to sway, thrusting to meet him at every beat. It’s almost everything he dreamt of when he first watched this routine, even more so when Wei Wuxian pushes him onto his back. Hopping back on and bottoming out quickly, he begins to ride, hand splayed on Lan Wangji’s chest. Lan Wangji’s grip on his waist is unbreakable, watching as the man bounces up and down.

“Are you affected by me, Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian asks, eyes tearful. “I need to hear it. I need it.”

That Wei Wuxian could ever think that he didn’t possess Lan Wangji’s heart and soul, that he wouldn’t give this man any and everything he ever could, especially in a moment as vulnerable as this? Unacceptable. Any remaining inhibitions shed away as Lan Wangji opens his mouth, his small fervent gasps becoming louder, blending with Wei Wuxian’s own. He sits up, moving a surprised Wei Wuxian into his lap as they sigh into each other.

“Wei Ying- I-”

The song doesn’t end exactly when they do, but both of them are far too gone, bodies burning as they come together. Lan Wangji hasn’t felt this tired, this pleased after a performance in such a long time, and his weight falls forward, crushing Wei Wuxian to the bed.

“Oof! Lan Zhan!”

The tub was always built large enough for two, and Lan Wangji has never been so pleased at the excess. The smell of sandalwood bubble bath permeates the steamy air and they lounge in the warm water, Lan Wangji running his hands over the bite mark and finger-shaped bruises on his body. Wei Wuxian seems content, blowing bubbles and kicking his feet.

“I’ve wanted to do that since I got to the Cloud Recesses, you know.”

“Mn.”

“Jiang Cheng told me I was silly, that I couldn’t just fall in love with some guy I just met, and certainly not one of our benefactors.”

“…”

“But then I got to know you, so by the time we made it here I was in love-love. Not just, ‘wow, I want this gorgeous, fuddy-duddy man to rail me’, but ‘wow, I want this gorgeous, fuddy-duddy man to love me and to rail me’.”

“I was not Wei Ying’s biggest fan in the beginning. And then you decided to dance.”

Grinning smarmily, Wei Wuxian turns. “Next time I’ll bring the heels.”

Feeling a twitch against his back, Wei Wuxian squeals.

“No, not again! Not right now! I’ll never be able to do that routine without thinking of this, you know. Now everyone at Nightless City will see my dance of making love to Hanguang Jun. You’re happy about it too, you demon!”

A small, mischievous smile. “Mn. They want what is mine.”

At his words, Wei Wuxian turns in his lap, nervous twiddling his fingers.

“Are- are you mine, Lan Zhan?” he murmurs. “Are we- are we official?”  

In response, Lan Wangji takes his face in his hands, and kisses his forehead, his eyelids, his nose, and each cheek.

“Yes,” he whispers, bringing their lips together.

Everything was truly perfect in that moment. If Lan Wangji could have died right there, he’d have died happy.

And if Lan Wangji had known what faced them in the future, he would have kept Wei Wuxian by his side, right there in that small bubble within his arms.

He would have never let him leave.

The early morning sun filters down onto their writhing bodies, the ethereal music playing gently in the background. Lan Wangji gently curls into Wei Wuxian, allowing each and every resulting moan to drive him deeper. If last night was for impassioned, frenzied, explosive love, this morning was gentle, delicate, sweet. Wei Wuxian’s arms wrapped around Lan Wangji’s neck, meeting him with every thrust. His hair is splayed across the pillow, and the light allows Lan Wangji to see everything he couldn’t in his impatience before- the beauty of his lust-reddened cheeks, the fluttering of his eyelashes, the way he bit his lip whenever he felt overwhelmed, the way those lips parted in ecstasy every time Lan Wangji held him tighter, or kissed him, or flicked his wrist just right. Wei Wuxian comes with the crest of the last song, Lan Wangji not far behind.

As they breathe heavily, holding onto each other, a tune unfamiliar to Lan Wangji plays.

“It’s Shijie’s ringtone, she must be wondering where I am-” Wei Wuxian cuts off, his body going stiff. Frowning, Lan Wangji lifts his head to look at him.

“Uh… Lan Zhan… don’t you teach a class today at 9am? It’s 8:45…”

With a start, Lan Wangji leaps from the bed, pulling roughly from a wincing Wei Wuxian.

“Sorry,” he pleads, rushing into the bathroom and turning on the shower. Wei Wuxian quickly follows behind him into the shower, and try as he might, Lan Wangji can’t finish without giving him one more rushed kiss.

“Later,” he promises, leaping out and drying off as quickly as he can. Lan Wangji is used to a quick change, but no matter what he does he won’t be able to get fully dressed for practice and be at the Cloud Recesses before 9am, especially not if he has to drop Wei Wuxian off at home.

“Wei Ying- can you come with me today?” If he comes along, Lan Wangji can make it by 9:10am at the earliest. They also won’t have to separate so suddenly.

Wei Wuxian, who’s managed to clean up and get dressed as well, shakes his head.

“It’s fine, Lan Zhan! I need to think anyway, and public transport won’t kill me! Don’t worry, er-gege, I’ll see you later, okay?”

“Mn.”

He’s not pleased, but unfortunately it will have to be the way things are. With a quick kiss, Wei Wuxian is out of the door, and after refilling the feeder and watering Bichen, Lan Wangji is shoving a quick packed lunch in his practice bag and is running out as well.

He passes Wei Wuxian, giving a quick beep. Wei Wuxian blows him a kiss, and Lan Wangji smiles the entire way to the studio.

The new choreography in Wei Wuxian’s head is amazing, and he’s pretty sure it’s because of the kickass night he’d had. He can hardly even see where he’s walking, his brain and spirits high in the clouds despite his mild back pain, but it’s fine- muscle memory will get him where he needs to go. Instead, he lightly sings as he designs in his mind. When the designs don’t fill his thoughts, his happiness does.

It’s deliciously and shamelessly sinful, but that morning they’d made love to some of Lan Wangji’s morning meditative playlist. Making love to something like Miserere mei, Deus, the light shining over Lan Wangji’s glorious frame, coming with such a mournful high note, made Wei Wuxian feel as though he had ascended a heavenly plane. To think- someone like Lan Wangji loved him! Beautiful, sophisticated, talented, strong, sweet, kind- he’d hit the jackpot! He couldn’t wait to take him out in public, or better yet- to a family dinner! Jiang Cheng would look scandalized, but Uncle Jiang and Shijie would be so happy for him, and Madame Yu could choke on the biggest-

“Wei Wuxian?”

Annoyed, Wei Wuxian stops, taking out an earbud. He looks over at a man in a cap and jacket, irritated.

“Can I help you?” He has no idea who this person is, or what they’d want from him, and it immediately puts him on edge. Why is this stranger interrupting some of the best vibes he’s ever had? And more importantly, how long have they been following him?

“I need you to come with me.”

“Uh…no.”

The man scowls, his bland features becoming sinister. “That wasn’t a request.”

“But my answer was a refusal.”

When the man jolts forward, Wei Wuxian jukes him, sprinting away. He hadn’t noticed, but the traffic in the streets had thinned out- it was the middle of the walk between the train stations that would get him back to his Shijie’s, and the crowds weren’t as large here. He’s so close that he can see the stairs leading to the small station when something heavy hits him in the back of the head, causing him to stumble. Falling to the ground, he sees a brick behind him, followed by the shadow of the man who’d be chasing him.

“No!”

Trapped in a headlock, Wei Wuxian struggles as the man pulls him into a nearby alley. He tries to get up, but the man punches him in the face, slamming him back down. Head swimming, blood dripping down his back, he gasps in horror when he sees the metal pipe lifted high off of the ground.

“You fucking shit, you made this harder on yourself!”

“No! No!”

The crack of the impact of the metal bar almost seems unreal as Wei Wuxian passes out.

Lan Wangji is closing the studio for the day, giving last minute goodbyes to his students when Lan Xichen approaches him, a harried look on his face.

“Brother? What is it?”

“It’s for you- it’s Nie Huaisang, he seems very stressed.”

Bemused, Lan Wangji answers the phone. “Yes?”

“Lan Wangji? You have to hurry to the hospital, quickly! It’s Wei Wuxian-”

His stomach drops, his heart beating painfully. “What happened?”

“Someone attacked him. We’re only blessed that someone saw them before it was too late but… They- they hit him really hard in the back of the head, and they- they fractured his kneecap, Lan Wangji.”  

Lan Xichen only barely catches his phone as Lan Wangji loses his grip, falling to his knees.

It’s my fault-

If I’d just brought him to the Cloud Recesses-

If I’d just kept him near me-!

“Okay, I know where that is. Thank you, Huaisang. We’re on our way,” Lan Xichen murmurs, before hanging up the phone. “A-Zhan, I know what you’re thinking, and this is not your fault. You can’t help Wei Wuxian from here, we need to go- now. Follow me to the hospital.”

It’s an out of body experience as Lan Wangji swerves behind Lan Xichen, weaving in between cars as they race to the hospital. It isn’t until they see Nie Huaisang standing nervously in front of the door that all of his emotions slam into him at once. When he sees Lan Wangji, Nie Huaisang sighs in mild relief.

“Thank god you’re here. He’s been inconsolable in there, forcing me and the doctors to get out in a fury,” he explains. “We called his brother and sister, and they’re on their way, but you were the closest and I know how much you care about each other.”

Lan Wangji leaves Lan Xichen to thank Nie Huaisang as he slides the hospital door open. It’s hard to keep it together when he sees Wei Wuxian laid back on the bed, his head wrapped in bandages and his right knee covered in plaster. His eyes are sunken, surrounded by dark circles, and he stares at the ceiling with a despondent expression that twists into pained fury when he hears the door open.

“Oh, fuck off! What do I have to do to be left alone!” After struggling to lift his head, he sees Lan Wangji, and his eyes fill with fearful tears, hands fisting.

“Go away, Lan Zhan. I don’t need this right now. I don’t need your pity.”

“Wei Ying, I-”

“Shut up! Just, shut up, Lan Wangji! Just- just go away!”

Lan Wangji’s chest shakes with sobs as he moves forward, holding his arms out. “Wei Ying, please-”

Scoffing, Wei Wuxian smacks his hands away, and Lan Wangji’s soul shrivels just a little more.

“Go! Shit, I wouldn’t be surprised if you had something to do with this! You didn’t even want me to go! Well look- now I’ll never get to go! It’s all ruined! I’m ruined! Get out! Go away!”

He’s heartbroken at the idea that Wei Wuxian could think he would ever do anything like this, would ever try to force him away from the dance that he loves so much, but it’s harsh enough of a blow to leave him reeling. He quickly leaves, sliding the door closed, and lets a couple tears fall.

“Lan Wangji.”

The soft voice gives him pause; he looks up to see Wen Ning’s doleful green eyes peering back at him. This might be the first time they’ve ever directly spoken.

“Where are you going?”

Lan Wangji averts his eyes. “Wei Ying told me he doesn’t want to see me. I don’t want to upset him further while he’s hurt.”

Stepping closer, Wen Ning takes a deep breath.

“I would appreciate it if you went back in there.”

“I just-”

“I will lift you up and put you back in there if I must.”

Narrowing his eyes at Wen Ning in challenge, he’s surprised to see the large man hold his gaze. Lan Wangji has to remember- as non-confrontational as he is, Wei Wuxian is Wen Ning’s hero, and he hangs onto every word the man spoke. Wen Ning is Wei Wuxian’s ‘ghost general’, and suddenly, the title makes perfect sense. There’s no malice in his gaze, but there is a lot of intent.

“Why-”

“Because he needs you!” Wen Ning pleads. “He’s been so happy about you, you bring him so much joy, and if you walk out on him right now, he’s really going to feel like he’s lost it all. Please go back in there. Please help him.”

The subtle reprimand leaves Lan Wangji contrite, driven home when Wen Qing glares at him, cracking her knuckles. Her stony gaze dares him to disappoint her little brother. When he capitulates, Wen Ning smiles in relief.

“Thank you, Hanguang Jun.”

Taking a deep breath, Lan Wangji re-enters the room.

“Didn’t I tell you to leave?! What the fuck is with people not listening to me?! I don’t want anybody’s pity! I just want to be left alone!”

He’s squeezing himself tightly, his voice cracking with the command, and suddenly Lan Wangji feels foolish for not knowing what to do before.

-I want to be held, for so many reasons I’ve wanted to be held by you for so long-

When he sits on the bed and wraps around Wei Wuxian, holding tight, Wei Wuxian hisses at him. He shakes as much as he can without bringing down his braced leg, howling to be freed. Gritting his teeth, Lan Wangji only holds tighter. A few more moments, and Wei Wuxian goes limp in his arms, bawling inconsolably.

“I- I’m so sorry, Lan Zhan! I’m sorry! I didn’t mean it!”

“I know.”

Tears soak Lan Wangji’s shirt as Wei Wuxian twists in his arms, holding fast.

“I’ve failed Lan Zhan,” he wails. “I’ve failed everyone, and now Madame Yu is right- I’m nothing but a freeloader, getting in with the wrong people. Lotus Pier was supposed to shine, I was supposed to help Jiang Cheng lead it to greatness, and now I’ll never do any of that! What am I going to do without my knee, Lan Zhan? I need dance, I’m nobody without it! No one cares about me if I’m not dancing, and smiling, and happy, and I can’t do it, I can’t do it anymore-”

His explanation trails off into babbling tears, and a few more tears of his own fall as Lan Wangji soothes him, rocking gently.

“None of this is your fault, Wei Ying. None of it.” It’s mine. “You are loved, Wei Ying. By your friends, by your brother and sister, and by me.”

“But you only fell in love with me because of dance, Lan Zhan,” Wei Wuxian whimpers, squeezing his eyes shut as he tries to pull away. Cradling his head closer, Lan Wangji allows his tongue to loosen and his thoughts to flow.

“I would have fallen in love with you anyway- I would have been foolish not to. You are wonderful, intelligent, brilliant, gorgeous, a joy to be around- whether you dance or not. No matter what happens, I will always love you. You don’t have to be happy all the time, you’re allowed to feel whatever is you need, and I will stand by you. Lotus Pier is not your responsibility alone, and if it has to wait so that you can heal, then it will wait. If you want to dance again, I will help you make that happen. If you want to do something else, I will help. You are not alone, Wei Ying. Your support system is out there, and I am here, and we will help you get through this.”

He dries Wei Wuxian’s tears, kissing behind them, and Wei Wuxian gives him a wet smile before squeezing into his chest, hiding behind his hair.

“Love you, Lan Zhan,” he sighs, exhausted.

The door opens a sliver, Nie Huaisang’s curious eye peering in, and Lan Wangji nods acceptance. Heaving a relieved sigh, he tosses the door open for the doctor, followed by the entirety of the YunmengJiang crew.

Wen Ning and Wen Qing seem pleased with Lan Wangji, Wen Ning beaming especially wide. Jiang Yanli is immediately at his side, reaching out to squeeze onto Wei Wuxian’s hand- he squeezes back, recognizing his Shijie’s hand immediately. Jiang Cheng stands furiously at the door, his expression torn between relief that his brother was okay, and rage at whomever hurt him. An older man in a suit with a purple tie speaks to Jiang Cheng, before pulling up a chair near Jiang Yanli’s. Lan Wangji realizes this must be his uncle, Jiang Fengmian, and bows his head in respect. Nie Huaisang, Lan Xichen, Mianmian and Jin Zixuan lean in the doorframe, peering in.

The room buzzes with energy as the doctor checks all of his vitals, working around Lan Wangji to check on Wei Wuxian who begrudgingly let her treat him. As she does this, she explains to Jiang Fengmian and Jiang Yanli about his diagnosis, noting that the abrasion on his head is clean and will heal in a few days. As soon as she’s finished, he curls right back into Lan Wangji.

“A-Xian,” Jiang Fengmian tries, and Wei Wuxian only barely turns, showing him one harried eye. “I have hired some of the best investigators to look into and arrest whoever did this to you. I want to make sure you’re safe, and that bastard is off the streets. We’ll get him, okay?”

Sniffling, Wei Wuxian nods. “Thank you, Uncle,” he whispers.

The energy in the room lightens significantly when the doctor is pleased to note that the surgery went well, and that the transverse fracture was fairly clean. “The damage is not permanent, and he will be able to walk again, with proper healing and rehab.”

A tight squeeze on his arm alerts Lan Wangji to Wei Wuxian’s tension, and he asks the question that Wei Wuxian can’t manage to speak.

“What about his dancing?”

There is a pause, enough for Wei Wuxian to begin to shake, and Lan Wangji shifts to hold him tightly. Finally, the doctor sighs.

“It depends on how well rehab goes. His surgery was successful, and if he takes care of himself, in a couple of months, he may be ready for light exercise. Many patients do experience chronic pain and arthritis over time, true. That being said…. he might not ever have Stallion-era knees ever again, and he’ll need to adjust,” she teases lightly, “but so long as he’s careful, he could return to dance.”

Wei Wuxian’s body goes limp with relief.

“That means no playing games right now, Wei Wuxian.”

Shining with new hope, Wei Wuxian gives her his best attempt at a flirty smile. “Yes, ma’am.”

Lan Wangji smiles, and jolting everyone in the room- they’ve never seen anything other than impassiveness in his expression.

After an hour or so, the crowd begins to clear out. Jiang Fengmian has gone to the police station after security arrives at Wei Wuxian’s door, Lan Xichen leaving after ascertaining Lan Wangji would be okay, and soon all that remains is Jiang Cheng, Jiang Yanli, and Jin Zixuan who waits in the hall.

“He’ll be released from the hospital in a couple days, and he’ll need extra care,” the doctor had told them, giving Wei Wuxian a dose of pain-relief, before leaving for her next patient. Jiang Cheng and Jiang Yanli have been quietly discussing who will take him home, and why, when Lan Wangji speaks up.

“I’ll take him home.”

Jiang Cheng is apoplectic. “Excuse you? You’ve known him for like a month and a half, we’re his siblings! Wei Wuxian is of the YunmengJiang! What say do you have in this?”

Lan Wangji only indicates his head down at a cozy, unusually quiet Wei Wuxian.

“Oh, so you’re going to say it’s what he would want? Are you sure? Because he was with you last night, and then this morning he ends up hurt! We leave our brother in your care, and he gets attacked. Where the fuck were you? Where do you get the right-”

“A-Cheng.”

Jiang Yanli’s voice doesn’t need to raise to get him to silence. She turns to Lan Wangji, sizing him up once more for a few moments. Every ounce of guilt he’d felt, plus the cuts from Jiang Cheng’s accusations, only sank in deeper when his eyes connected with her soft, light grey eyes. You treat A-Xian well, and bring him home safe, Hanguang Jun. He’s a good man, with a large heart, and he cares very much for you.

“I failed you, Jiang Yanli. I failed what you asked of me, and I failed Wei Wuxian. I am sorry, and I don’t know what I can begin to do to make up for this. But I would like to try.”

“Lan Zhan?” Wei Wuxian croaks, and Lan Wangji only caresses his hair some more, making him fall back into his chest.

“A-Xian?”

Wei Wuxian tries to focus on his sister despite the drugs kicking in.

“Do you feel safe with Lan Wangji?”

“Yes, Shijie,” he whispers.

“Would you be happy there, with Lan Wangji?”

“Yes, Shijie.”

“Can A-Cheng visit you, to make sure you’re doing well and have everything you need?”

“Jiejie!”

“Yes, Jiang Cheng can visit.”

When these are all answered, she turns to Lan Wangji.

“Can I trust you, this time, with my brother? To make sure he feels safe, that he is protected, and that he’ll be cared for?”

“Jiejie, you can’t be serious-”

“Yes. On my life, yes.”

Jiang Yanli seems sufficiently convinced, turning to placate a gaping Jiang Cheng.

“Oh, A-Cheng. See how happy A-Xian is? Look.”

Wei Wuxian has finally succumbed to sleep, cuddled into Lan Wangji. Groaning, Jiang Cheng yields.

“Great, now I’m sick. Fine.” He steps forward, pointing a sharp, threatening finger in Lan Wangji’s face. “But if anything else happens to my brother, if he gets hurt, if he’s in pain and you didn’t help him in time, or god forbid if he cries because you hurt his feelings, that’s your ass, Lan Wangji.”

The threat is not to be taken lightly, and Lan Wangji gives it the gravitas it is due. “Mn. I understand.”

When Wei Wuxian arrives at Lan Wangji’s townhome, it’s been completely shifted to make space for the new arrival. Everything he needs is at a reachable height, things are no longer as close together and easily bumped into, and all of his items are unpacked and neatly hung up, folded, or on a counter. Lan Wangji had requested two weeks away from the Cloud Recesses to help his lover adjust, and Lan Xichen had graciously accepted combining the advanced courses.

“It’s all so neat, Lan Zhan. How unlike me- where are the clothes on the floor? The dishes in the sink? If I stay here too long, I might get some class!”

Wei Wuxian’s bubbly humor has returned, though sometimes it is strained to hide his pain. Lan Wangji is on alert at all times- he has them both sleeping in his room (“our room, now”), wraps his leg in plastic and helps him bathe. He massages his thigh and foot when his leg gets restless and stings, soothing Wei Wuxian through the pain and anger he feels. Wei Wuxian’s favorite part is that Lan Wangji makes him all his favorites and gives him treats. One day he’s sitting on the couch with Bichen, both of them chewing on their snacks. It’s so adorably wholesome that Lan Wangji takes a picture and makes it his screensaver.

“Bichen! You know what your papa is trying to do? He’s trying to fatten us up and eat us! Make us into plump, nutritious meals! And yet, fools we are, we keep eating!”

Bichen only chirps, satisfied with this turn of events.

Lan Wangji plops onto the couch, yet another new bad habit, and kisses him deeply, making sure to squeeze his ass for good measure.

“Plump.”

Gasping, Wei Wuxian pulls away and grins. “Lan Zhan!”

The healing process is slow, day by day, but they work through it. Things seem idyllic the first couple of days, until he receives a strange text message from Jiang Cheng.

Meet us at the Cloud Recesses

make sure Wei Wuxian is taking a nap, or eating or something

It’s a subtle enough hint not to tell Wei Wuxian, and though he loathes the idea of keeping secrets, he doesn’t want to stress Wei Wuxian out with whatever bad news he’s sure this text message is about.

“Wei Ying?”

Silence; Lan Wangji finds him in their bedroom, face exhausted as he sighs in his sleep. With a kiss on the forehead and a text letting him know he was out, Lan Wangji tosses on a jacket and leaves.

The energy in Studio B is tense, anger simmering in everyone’s expressions- Lan Wangji can already tell what this is about. Jiang Cheng leans against the wall, glaring at the floor, and he straightens up when Lan Wangji enters. Wen Qing holds onto a distraught, fed-up Mianmian, Wen Ning and Nie Huaisang both hovering around them. Nie Huaisang’s boot is noticeably missing, limping mildly when he moves over to stand by the door.

“Lan Wangji.”

“Jiang Cheng.”

“I’ll get to the point- Wen Chao is behind Wei Wuxian’s attack.”

It wasn’t a hard point to reach- but how could they be sure?

Wen Qing speaks up, her imperious voice shaking. “Wang Lingjiao sent a screenshot, somehow, again, to Mianmian’s new phone. Here.”

She tosses a phone that Lan Wangji blithely catches. The screen shows an excessively made-up woman pressed up against a sneering man, the background of a dance club. He recognizes the location underneath the picture as the same club that Wei Wuxian wanted to go to in downtown Caiyi.

“They’re bragging. They know what happened, and they’re here to show off. To let us know that we’ve not only lost our studio, but we’ve lost our lead dancer, and that they’re planning on taking everything.”

Tossing the phone back before he crushes it, Lan Wangji purses his lips. It’s infuriating, that Wen Chao would not only have Wei Wuxian hurt, but then to rub it in- as if he were untouchable-

“To be honest, I didn’t want to invite you.” Jiang Cheng claims. “You’re a stuck-up rule-follower, and this place’s reputation is sparkling clean- I was sure you would snitch as soon as you heard. But Wen Ning convinced me that you would want to know.” Wen Ning gives him a strained smile and a thumbs up. “But now that you know, if you aren’t going to help, don’t get in our way.”

“Get in your way of what?”

“We’re confronting them,” Nie Huaisang pipes up. “I made some calls and turns out the owner of the club wants them there less than we do, so they’re willing to look away in exchange for minimal damage. We didn’t want Mianmian to be near them anymore, and Wen Qing doesn’t want Wen Ning to be a direct target, so she and Wen Ning are driving. I’ll be the lookout- I won’t even shame myself by pretending it’s because of my foot- I can’t fight. That leaves two against three, and that’s where you would come in.”

“I’m going.”

Jiang Cheng raises his eyebrows. “You sure? No backing out of this.”

“I’m sure.” Fury rolls inside Lan Wangji, along with an undercurrent of excitement to unleash it. Wen Chao doesn’t know him, and he’s going to regret ever having to meet him. Smiling, Jiang Cheng pushes off the wall.

“Okay. You’re riding with Wen Ning and Wen Qing. Nie Huaisang got us easy entry, so this should be quick.”

The fifteen-minute ride to the club is even more tense. Wen Ning’s normally placid expression is furious and intensely focused, and Lan Wangji can’t help but wonder why he wasn’t being allowed to fight- if you didn’t know the man, he’d come off extremely threatening.

It’s almost seamless, the plan- they pull up in front of the club and turn on the hazards, walk up to the doors, where the bouncer lets them in with minimal check. Nie Huaisang stays back to scope, while Jiang Cheng leads Lan Wangji and Wen Qing toward the main bar. A man in a sloppy red button up leans against the counter, groping the ass of a giggling girl who drapes all over him. A second man sits a little further down, clearly agitated that he’s not receiving Wen Chao’s attention- when he locks eyes with Lan Wangji, he scowls hatefully, before standing furiously and leaving. Another man stands in black slacks and a red shirt, arms folded- Lan Wangji recognizes that this must be Wen Zhuliu, the bodyguard. Wen Wuxian hadn’t underestimated him when he said that the man looked like he’d killed people- the look in his eyes steered many uncomfortable people clear of the bar.

“Wen Chao.” Jiang Cheng demands, pausing. Wen Chao pushes Wang Lingjiao away roughly, demanding to know who spoke. When he finally zeroes in on Jiang Cheng, he tosses his head back and laughs.

“Oh- well if it isn’t the deposed Lotus brat. And behind him, my stick-up-the-ass cousin. How are you, Qing-qing? And I don’t know who this prude is, but clearly, he doesn’t belong here.”

Wen Qing seethes, and Lan Wangji places a restraining hand on her shoulder. Wen Chao breezily spins in the barstool, and Jiang Cheng cracks his fist.

“Have you no fucking shame?”

“Shame for what? Being shameless is the new move, or at least that’s what a certain lead dancer used to believe. By the way- how is Wei Wuxian?”

The blasé tone pisses Lan Wangji off. “How dare you even say his name?”

“You know exactly how he is, you fuck!” Jiang Cheng concurs.

“Hm. Indeed- the entire dance community has heard by now. A shame indeed.” Wen Chao sniffles as he plays with his glass. “He’ll have to modify to suck the judges off now after his skimpy little dances, but alas.”  

With a snarl, Jiang Cheng dashes forward to tackle Wen Chao, and like lightning Wen Zhuliu appears in front of him. Seeing him, Jiang Cheng dips low, allowing Lan Wangji to move in behind him and throw a left jab in Wen Zhuliu’s face. As Wen Zhuliu jumps back to defend himself, Jiang Cheng successfully strongarms Wen Chao into the bar, the large crash causing everyone in the area to gasp in shock as they make room.

Wang Lingjiao shrieks, going to throw a drink on Jiang Cheng, but Wen Qing cuts her off with a backhand, quickly bringing it back around to slam her to the ground. Grabbing a fist full of her hair, Wen Qing begins to lay blow after blow, kneeling down over Wang Lingjiao to prevent her from moving.

“This is for Wei Wuxian-” she says, punching her in the nose. “And these are for Mianmian!” she rains down blow after blow to Wang Lingjiao’s face. “Stop fucking harassing us, you bitch!” She snatches a half-empty beer bottle that fell from the countertop and pours it all over Wang Lingjiao’s scandalized face.

Jiang Cheng and Wen Chao are exchanging blows, and Jiang Cheng is fairly controlled with his movements as he either dodges or eats every hit that comes his way. Despite everything that Wen Chao throws (fists, napkin holders, chairs) Jiang Cheng is able to reciprocate. Part of this comfortability is brought on by knowing that Lan Wangji has his back, protecting him from the larger threat in the room.

Wen Zhuliu, despite his size, is fairly agile, and it is taking all of Lan Wangji’s own dexterity to avoid and block his hits, returning his own. Luckily, Lan Qiren had put both of his nephews in martial arts as an outside hobby for ballet when they were kids, claiming that their bodies should stay in tip-top shape and discipline at all times. They dance around each other in a fight that could have been considered beautiful if in other circumstances. The distraction leaves Lan Wangji unsatisfied; it’s Wen Chao he came for. Still, he understands Jiang Cheng’s personal fury at the man- first suspected of burning his home ground, and then hurting his brother? It was unfathomable, and he should be allowed his moment.

But when Jiang Cheng hurls Wen Chao his way, he immediately turns away from Wen Zhuliu in order to punch Wen Chao in his nose, blood spraying onto his clothes. Their footwork seems perfectly choreographed when Jiang Cheng switches battles with him, fighting Wen Zhuliu as Lan Wangji lands a few blows on Wen Chao. There’s a moment of pause when Lan Wangji holds Wen Chao up by his collar, and the bruised man still has the audacity to sneer.

“Wei Wuxian really must have been a good fuck for you to fight like this for him, hm? Is he really worth it-”

He doesn’t get to finish that sentence, because Lan Wangji wraps two hands around his neck and begins to squeeze. Wen Chao is turning purple when Lan Wangji takes a hard blow to his back, causing them both to fall to the floor. A broken barstool lays on the ground behind him as Wen Zhuliu grabs Wen Chao and drags him into the crowd. Pulled out of his furious haze, Lan Wangji realizes that the crowd is quickly dispersing as flashing red and blue lights pull up, and suddenly he’s pushed back down onto the ground as officers handcuff him. Jiang Cheng, reeling from an un-dodged kick, is also arrested, and they’re both pulled out of the establishment. They’re both pushed into the back of the squad car, noticing that their getaway cars are nowhere to be found.

They’ve only sat in lockup for a couple hours before the guard opens the door, commanding them both to get up. Lan Wangji’s body is sore from the fight, his back stinging from the impact of the barstool. Jiang Cheng fares worse, the lump on the side of his head noticeable and the black eye taking up a large amount of his face. After a couple attempts to stand, they both limp out to the hallway where Jin Zixuan and Lan Xichen stand, posture and body language similarly disappointed. In response, Jiang Cheng and Lan Wangji try to stand a little taller with pride, injuries be damned.

“So, I guess this is what we do now?” Jin Zixuan questions sarcastically, gesturing at them. “I figured Wei Wuxian lacked access to the one brain cell in this group, but clearly that’s not the case! If Nie Huaisang hadn’t called Nie Mingjue, and Nie Mingjue hadn’t called Lan Xichen, you’d both still be rotting in jail. Even more lucky, they’re not pressing assault charges- Wen Chao is too embarrassed to admit he got his ass kicked. The dance club also declined to say anything. I don’t know what the fuck you were thinking, but you made my wife break into tears, and Jiang Cheng, you will apologize.”

Jiang Cheng dips his head in shame, glancing at Lan Wangji. Lan Xichen holds Lan Wangji’s glance, rigid brown against resistant gold. Their silent battle is only interrupted when Jiang Cheng nudges him.

“Go to him. I’m sure he’s worried sick by now. And if he’s concerned, tell him that… I’ll deal with Mom.”

Yu Ziyuan had better not even think of calling Wei Ying is what he wants to reply. In fact, he plans on blocking that number from Wei Wuxian’s phone. They finally make it to the parking lot, going their separate ways. Lan Wangji sits stiffly in the seat as Lan Xichen fumes. Lan Xichen was hardly ever angry, only visibly showing upset with narrowed eyes and pursed lips, but Lan Wangji knows his brother the same way his brother knows him, and he is enraged.  

They’re about two blocks away from Lan Wangji’s home when the silence cracks.

“Wangji… what the hell were you thinking? What was that about? Starting a fight? Getting arrested? What about the Cloud Recesses? What about your career?!”

“I don’t care about my career.”

“Wangji!” Lan Xichen snaps.

Lan Wangji sharply turns to the window, face burning from both the large bruise on his cheek and from his indignation. Aggrieved, Lan Xichen sighs.

“Okay. A-Zhan. Look at me. Please.”

Lip protruding, Lan Wangji inclines his head.  

“I know you’re upset about what happened to Wei Wuxian. It is distressing to think that anyone would harm someone else in so devastating a way. But this was not how to handle it. If it were just you to worry about, it would be one thing. But you have people who depend on you, A-Zhan. The school, our students, me, Bichen, and Wei Wuxian all need you at home, and not in prison.”

Shame burns deep in his core when Lan Wangji thinks about how sad, confused, and alone Wei Wuxian and Bichen would have felt if he didn’t come back home. Seeing the tears pool in his brother’s eyes, Lan Xichen knows he’s broken through and his shoulders drop.

“I contacted Uncle. I didn’t know if we’d need the family lawyers, and I didn’t want to run in blind. He- he may or may not be on his way home. If we’re lucky, he’ll finish his most recent tour, which has three more shows.”

“What about the YunmengJiang dancers?”

“I don’t know. A lot has happened- I’m not even sure they know what to do.”  

The car idles in front of the townhouse, and Lan Wangji sniffles. A warm hand lands on his, squeezing.

“It’s going to be okay. Go inside, clean yourself up, and get some rest. We’ll see what tomorrow brings.”

“Thank you, brother.”

“Of course, Wangji. I’ll always support you, even if that means telling you you’ve made a poor choice. Love you, didi. Now go.”

Lan Wangji enters his townhome, and sees Wei Wuxian standing silently at the door, leaning on one crutch. His body shakes with fatigue, and Lan Wangji rushes to him in concern.

“Wei Ying, how long have you been standing here?”

Ignoring him, Wei Wuxian searches his face, gently cupping it with one hand. With a sigh, he falls into Lan Wangji’s arms, dropping the crutch.

“Don’t worry, Wei Ying. Please don’t worry. I’m fine. It’s going to be fine.”

“Nie Huaisang texted. I was so scared, Lan Zhan, when they said you’d been hauled off…”

“Brother picked me up.”

“You didn’t have to-”

Their moment is interrupted by a restless Bichen, who’s been let out of her enclosure for hours and is pleased to see Lan Wangji home, bouncing on his foot. Laughing softly, Wei Wuxian hobbles to the couch, aided by his repentant lover.

“Well. Has it been handled?”

“Mn. No charges.”

“Mm. Lucky. And Wen Chao?”

“Handled.” For now.

Wei Wuxian grins in relief. “You know, now that I’m happy you’re safe and at home, I have to say- you look pretty hot after a hard fight, Lan Zhan. And knowing you fought for Lotus Pier’s honor?”

“Wei Ying’s honor.”

It brings Lan Wangji joy that Wei Wuxian seems to have forgiven him already, even though he pushes him out of the room to go shower and clean his injuries (“you smell like alcohol, sweat, and my newly regained honor, Lan Zhan”). When he comes back, fresh and treated, Wei Wuxian snuggles back into him.

“Is Bichen in her home?”

“Mhm! She’s all snuggled on her little bunny bed. She’s a darling, Lan Zhan. Just like her papa.”

Lan Wangji’s ears turn a gleeful red as he accepts the kisses all over his face, disappointed when Wei Wuxian pulls away.

“So, you survived Wen Zhuliu with nothing but a barstool to the back? And Nie Huaisang said you ate that hit like a champ, that it was a cheap attack.”

“Mn.”

“That’s so sexy. I’d ask if you had any leftover raw energy for me, Lan er-gege, but I won’t push you. I’m sure you need your rest.”

“Slowly.”

“Hm?”

“I have the energy for moving slowly.”

“Lan Zhan-”

Picking a squealing Wei Wuxian up by his waist, Lan Wangji uses the last vestiges of his strength to sweep him into the bedroom.

After the explosive night at the Caiyi dance club, things have been unexpectedly… quiet. Peaceful. Two weeks pass, and Lan Wangji returns to teaching at the Cloud Recesses. Lan Sizhui and Lan Jingyi are ecstatic to see him, especially when he carries in a dramatic Wei Wuxian splayed out in his arms.

“Wei-qianbei!” they cry, vacillating over him. Wei Wuxian languishes in their concern and happiness, grinning.

“Spare your tears, my darlings! Your favorite critic has returned!”

Lan Wangji isn’t surprised at their lack of shock; he’s sure that Jin Ling has already run to them with constant news. After setting Wei Wuxian comfortably in a folding chair with a pillow under his foot, Lan Wangji calmly heads to the front barre and begins warming stretches. They follow suit, as if they’d never broken pattern. When their stretches and technique practice are over, Lan Wangji asks them if they’d done the research he’d sent ahead.

“We did!” Jingyi exclaims. “We found out when auditions are and everything! We’re signed up.”

“Good. I am proud of you both.”

“Hanguang Jun, we even asked if they would be interested in you auditioning for the role of the Nutcracker, and guess what they said?” Sizhui prompts, his usual control missing as he shakes with excitement.

“What did they say?” Lan Wangji dutifully asks.

“They said you wouldn’t even have to audition! If the great Hanguang Jun, a Twin Jade of Lan, wants to be a part of their production, they would be honored! How amazing is that? That they would only hear your name and offer such a role!”

For a long time, Lan Wangji hadn’t felt much when he’d be chosen for roles in ballet productions beyond a sense of duty and professionalism, both to himself and to represent the Cloud Recesses. However, his heart warmed with pleasure, eagerness, and a sense of pride that despite his recent mistakes, his name still held that sort of sway.

“I will call them and make arrangements. Thank you very much, both of you. I am already excited to work with you.”

Sizhui and Jingyi gasp, it not clicking until that moment that they could actually perform alongside their teacher! As they begin to whisper among themselves, Lan Wangji turns to check on a noticeably quiet Wei Wuxian. He frowns when he sees Wei Wuxian’s turned down expression, caught deep in unpleasant thought.

“Wei Ying,” he whispers, trying to get his attention. “Is everything okay?”

“What? Oh, everything is fine! Just- don’t worry about it. I heard the good news! I’d kiss you in congrats, but I don’t think the babies need to see it.”

“They don’t!” Jingyi cries.

“Still,” Wei Wuxian continues, kissing Lan Wangji’s forehead, “I can’t simply let this go unrewarded! You’re going to be amazing, all three of you! I can’t believe you’re leaving my tutelage to face the real world!”

Sizhui and Jingyi seem pleased, bantering back and forth with Wei Wuxian, but Lan Wangji still feels… disappointed? Subdued? This was what Wei Wuxian wanted, right? To see a ballet- Lan Wangji promised him. Why was his reaction so- muted?

They’re in the middle of driving home when Lan Wangji attempts to speak up.  

“Wei Ying?”

“Yes?”

“… Would you like to go get dinner?”

“Sure! I don’t see why not!”

He drives them to a small burger joint, ordering himself a veggie burger and letting Wei Wuxian indulge in a greasy meal. He drives to an overlook of the city, the nighttime sky twinkling down onto Gusu. They’ve finished eating when he tries again, hopefully having made the environment more comfortable.

“Wei Ying- you didn’t seem very pleased today with the news. Have I displeased you? Is it- is it no longer what you want?”

His voice is vulnerable, the hurt slipping out despite his best intentions, and Wei Wuxian wilts.

“Aw, Lan Zhan. I’m sorry,” he murmurs, guilt lowering his eyes. “I didn’t mean to seem unhappy. Quite the opposite- I’m elated for you! You’re going to make the most beautiful Nutcracker ever, even if they hide your face the entire time like a bunch of fools!”

By this time, he’s reaching to squeeze Lan Wangji’s cheeks, who chuckles as he grasps Wei Wuxian’s hands.

“Your hands are greasy. And it is not the entire time.”

“Well, I’ve never seen it! How would I know?”

“So, then what was bothering you?”

Sighing, Wei Wuxian slumps in his seat. “It was just… it’s stupid and I don’t want you to hate me, Lan Zhan. I was a little jealous. But not of you getting what you wanted, of course not! And not of the students. I just…” He glances wistfully out the window. “The way Sizhui and Jingyi looked at you, the pride they have in their teacher- I wanted that. I wanted that so badly with Lotus Pier. I wanted people to look at me dance with that kind of awe, to become a true professional to where people hear my name and immediately want to work with me… but…”

Staring disdainfully at his knee, he tosses the burger wrapper onto it. This deeply upsets Lan Wangji- the way he treated himself as if he were trash- who snatches the paper and throws it into the bag, before firmly grasping Wei Wuxian’s hands.

“People do look at you with awe, Wei Ying. I do, your entire troupe does, your audiences do. And one day, when you get to teach, your students will look at you that way as well. You are a professional, and you strike fear into others’ hearts with how talented you are- that they attacked you like cowards is evidence of that. They were afraid of you and your power, Wei Ying. Please do not ever disregard yourself like that.”

Sniffling, Wei Wuxian’s lips wobbles as he tries to speak. “You’re so wonderful. I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. There’s no need for apologies between us.”

After a few moments, Wei Wuxian relaxes, then grins wickedly, scrolling through his phone.

“Let me make it up to you.”

“Wei Ying-”

“I’m just saying- I wasn’t as excited as I should have been, and I ruined a moment that I want back. Let me make it up to you. Let me make everything better. Why else did you bring me here?”

“To communicate, and to make Wei Ying feel better.” Lan Wangji stiffens as Wei Wuxian’s fingers linger around his lips, dragging down his chest and to his zipper.

“Well, I’ll feel better after this. Yet another thing to think of while you perform.”

The twinkling notes of the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy ring out in the car as Wei Wuxian pulls out Lan Wangji’s length and licks his lips, before falling on it. His face heats as Lan Wangji gasps, both from the slide of Wei Wuxian’s warm tongue, and also from nerves as despite it being dark, they are still in a public park.

“Wei- Wei Ying- we are-”

He finds that he can no longer argue it when Wei Wuxian sucks upward, making a sloppy noise that leaves his toes curling.

“Hm?” The hum has Lan Wangji’s eyes rolling in the back of his head when Wei Wuxian begins to play with the tip, licking it playfully. He says nothing as Wei Wuxian shrugs, taking it back.

He also doesn’t have the heart, or the brainpower, to tell Wei Wuxian that he does not dance to this song. It’s adorable, and quite effective- he’ll have to walk away during this part of the performance.

Wei Wuxian’s affections are as light, yet precise and adept as the celeste’s notes, the way he twists one wrist while playing lower with the other hand, leaving Lan Wangji chasing after his hands and mouth. The song seems like it lasts forever, but it’s only been two minutes when he comes in Wei Wuxian’s mouth, his own moans unrestrained.

A little of it still ends up on Wei Wuxian’s face, and flushing, Lan Wangji quickly gets some napkins to wipe him off before kissing him.

“Feeling better? I know I am.”

“Mn.”

“Let’s go home?”

“Okay.”

It isn’t until he tries to add the song to his morning meditations/sex playlist when Lan Wangji realizes- he doesn’t have his phone.

“I must have left it at the Cloud Recesses,” he notes, frowning.

“Lan Zhan! I could never go that long without my phone!” Wei Wuxian cries, giving Bichen belly rubs. “I don’t know how you do it!”

It’s not that important any other time, but he’d planned on calling the director about the role in the ballet the next morning before work, and that number is in his phone.

“I’m going to go pick it up. Will you be okay?”

“Of course! Me and Lady Bichen will be here! Come home safe!”

With a kiss, Lan Wangji gets in his car and heads to the studio. Unlocking the front, he makes his way upstairs to his studio and retrieves his phone, still left on the back table. Pleased, he’s ready to leave when he hears a thump, followed by… muffled voices?

Tense, he presses the emergency button on his phone and begins to slowly toe through the hallway, trying to determine the location of the sound. When the frustrated operator gives up trying to speak, announcing they’d send someone to his location, he hangs up. The noise gets louder towards his Uncle’s office; they must be in there. Robbing them? Stealing information? That was more likely; there wasn’t really anything else worth stealing here. Grabbing a left-out broom, he slides the door open, fully expecting to come into conflict with a robber-

And instead, quickly covers his eyes with one hand, a small groan of disgust coming out.

Lan Xichen keens, laid decadently out on the large, black desk, top off; a larger, well-built man in an unbuttoned green shirt leaned over, kissing down his chest. They both scream in shock when they see that the door has been opened, and Lan Xichen turns puce when he realizes who it is. He quickly pushes the man off, pulling his shirt back on.

“Wangji! I didn’t, um-I didn’t think- Uncle was coming home tomorrow-” He straightens up awkwardly, trying to find some composure. “This is Nie Mingjue.”

So, this was his brother’s lover. Upon first glance, while Nie Mingjue buttoned his shirt up, Lan Wangji could see what Wei Wuxian had been talking about. This was the physique of a man that would have been able to take Wen Zhuliu on quite easily.

That being said, when he held out a hand for a shake, Lan Wangji recoiled, looking it up and down.

“Quite.” If that hand had been anywhere private on his brother, Lan Wangji didn’t want it on him. He already feared never un-hearing the sound he’d just made.

“I understand this is a bit of an awkward meeting…” Lan Xichen goes, face tomato red. It was almost hilarious, how flustered he looked, and if Lan Wangji weren’t so perturbed by seeing his brother in a compromising way, he would have laughed. Wei Wuxian certainly would have been on his back in laughter by now.

“I called emergency.” Lan Wangji replies flatly.

“Xichen-” Nie Mingjue begins, but Lan Xichen covers his face.

“Oh, I’m so embarrassed.”

Lan Wangji is tempted to reply, ‘you should be’, especially after all his teasing, when something else catches his attention. Nie Mingjue notes it too, his thick eyebrows scrunching.

“Smoke,” Lan Wangji notes, turning into the hallway. Nie Mingjue enters the hallway as well, scowling. On his own, he slowly opens the emergency back door into the hallway, with both brothers following behind him. The moment they peer through the small window, the sound of shattering glass slams through the halls. Nie Mingjue opens the door and silently creeps down (for such a large man, he moved very light on his feet, Lan Wangji noticed). When Lan Wangji is behind him, he tosses open the door.

“You!” 

A bat in hand, matches in the other, a man stands in the destroyed studio. Despite the dark mask covering half his face, his black eyes sparkle with a dangerously amused malice. Fresh, quickly rising flames lick behind him, yet he seems unperturbed by being cut off.

“Now this is interesting! No one has ever actually caught me in the act before, and with multiple fires going? Drama! Ooh imagine if you die here!” he sings.

Lan Xichen gasps. “Multiple?” His head twitches toward the door; as if announced, the sound of collapsing lumber rumbles through the building.

“Brother- go find an exit,” Lan Wangji murmurs to Lan Xichen. “Keep it open for us, alert the emergency crew when they get here.”

Lan Xichen shakes his head, tense and scowling. 

“That’s right… I suppose one good thing resulted from my stupidity today. Are you sure, Wangji? Maybe you should go, I don’t want to leave you here…”

“I have him; Xichen, go!” Nie Mingjue commands. He and Lan Wangji move forward, while Lan Xichen quickly darts out of the door to search for an open exit. The arsonist very easily slips through their fingers, jumping in and out of the flames and smoke as if they simply weren’t afraid of them. When Nie Mingjue reaches in to grab at him, he yanks back, hissing in pain- there’s a long knife cut on his arm, leaking blood. The smoke thickens, and after another of the glass walls cracks and explodes, they back away. The arsonist, giggling evilly, seems to vanish into it. Growling, Nie Mingjue moves forward again, but Lan Wangji grabs his uninjured arm.

“No! it’s too dangerous! Let’s retreat!”

Furious, Nie Mingjue nods and follows Lan Wangji as they try to escape from the burning building despite having no idea where to go. It seems that every direction they turn is a dead end, a blind ascent into thick smoke. The walls of the Cloud Recesses seem to be closing in, the flames loud, and the smoke is slowly suffocating them. It always seemed cliché, but life begins flashing before Lan Wangji’s eyes- watching his mother perform, learning in the Cloud Recesses joyfully alongside his brother, his first recital, his breakout performance, teaching, Wei Wuxian and the YunmengJiang-

Wei Ying.

I can’t die, not now!

A strong grip lands on his shoulder; he can just barely make out a red-eyed Nie Mingjue giving him a curt yet encouraging nod despite being covered in soot himself.

“-ngji!”  

“Wangji! Mingjue!”

Lan Wangji runs toward the sound of Lan Xichen’s voice and is relieved when a cool hand reaches out to pull him and Nie Mingjue out of the wrecked building. Lan Xichen’s arms wrap around him, squeezing tight.

“I’m so glad you’re safe, didi. Both of you. I can’t lose anybody else,” he murmurs. Lan Wangji didn’t notice until he lays his head down on his brother’s shoulders, but his small shivers quickly become wracking shakes.

“Wait- is that-” Nie Mingjue sprints into the night as the firetruck, police and ambulance arrive. The paramedics begin asking them questions, then the officers, and they try their best to answer as the flames are slowly tamed.

“You mentioned two others- where are they?” the paramedic asks.

“I- Nie Mingjue just ran off, I don’t-”

“Brother, look.”

They all turn to see Nie Mingjue, holding a slim body in a firefighter’s carry. When he makes it back to them, he’s breathing heavily, but he triumphantly tosses the masked body on the ground like a sack of bricks.

“Officers! That’s the bastard from earlier. The one who set the studio on fire? He must have crawled out of a window or something; I don’t know how he survived it, but he did.”

The officers and paramedics surround the unconscious man, placing him on a stretcher and providing him with an oxygen mask.

“Well, I’ll be damned,” one of them comments. “It’s Xue Yang. We’ve been trying to catch this bastard for months.”

“Who?” Lan Xichen asks, bothered.

“He’s been our main suspect as a serial arsonist, behind the Yunmeng, Yiling, and many other smaller sect studio fires.”

Nie Mingjue scoffs from the back of the second ambulance, getting his arm treated.

“That little punk? He can’t be any older than sixteen, seventeen- how has he managed to avoid police detection for this long?”

“That’s what we’ve been trying to figure out. He himself seems motiveless, which makes us think it’s contract. Have any of you pissed anyone off, lately?”

Lan Wangji’s heart stops, and Lan Xichen sees him stiffen.

“Wangji, do you think-”

“Mn. Why else would they come here?” Lan Wangji turns to the officer.

“Officer, I need to make a statement.”

Once Lan Wangji explains how Lotus Pier, Wei Wuxian, Wen Chao, and the Cloud Recesses are interconnected, it seems to click for many of the investigators at the station. They end up calling the private investigators that Jiang Fengmian hired to compare notes, and soon everything begins to add up. It helps when Xue Yang, awake and now in holding, gleefully confesses to everything during his interrogation, confirming their suspicions.

Lan Wangji sits with his brother and Nie Mingjue in the station’s small break room when a couple of pictures are placed down in front of them. The names on the pictures: Wen Ruohan, Wen Chao, Wen Zhuliu, Xue Yang, Su She, Jin Guangyao, Jin Guangshan.

The picture of Su She is uncomfortably familiar, and Lan Wangji realizes that it’s the hateful man that glared at him in the dance club before they fought Wen Chao.

“I recognize him,” he tells the officer. “Why is he relevant?”

“It’s an entire ring. Su She works as an enforcer for Jin Guangyao, who works as a lawyer, and as we’ve discovered, a money launderer, for Jin Guangshan and on hire for Wen Ruohan. Apparently, Wen Chao was quite displeased with Wei Wuxian, and sent him to handle it.”

“Wait- so this is the man who attacked Wei Ying? And he-” he intended to kill him?! The thought is entirely too hard to finish out loud, Lan Wangji finds, swallowing boiling hot rage. If only he’d known who that cowardly man was the night they’d gone to the club- Wen Zhuliu would not have been the one he fought.

“Turns out, the Jins have been behind helping Wen Ruohan clean up his dirty money,” the officer continues, unaware of the distress Lan Wangji is under. “Wen Chao’s Nightless City Studio is not a successful venture, and neither is the rest of the Wen’s current business projects. Jin Guangshan saw an opportunity and took it on a massive scale. It’s not something that we alone will be able to investigate, and federal agents have already been called. As for the arsons, well, Wen Chao is petty. He didn’t like the competition.”

Lan Xichen and Nie Mingjue have been quiet up until now, glaring at one photo in particular.

“So that’s what he’s been up to. I knew he was bad news from the beginning,” Nie Mingjue comments.

Lan Wangji cocks his head in question.

“Jin Guangyao,” Lan Xichen clarifies. “We knew him as Meng Yao when we were in school. I, um, had a romantic rendezvous with him. It didn’t end very well when he dumped me, due to Jin Guangshan’s increased interest and influence on him.”

The fact that he didn’t know about any of these things leaves Lan Wangji feeling mildly guilty.

“I thought you two just met?” he asks. Nie Mingjue shrugs.

“We were in similar circles, but never bothered to get to know each other until Huaisang re-introduced us. Meng Yao used to be cool, but then he started gaining a little more favor and became two-faced. When I saw him being shady around Huaisang, I cussed him out in front of the entire football team and he never spoke to me again. Good riddance, or so I thought.”

“Have you told your brother what happened?”

“I have. So, I’m sure we can expect the cavalry here soon.”

“That’s your brother.”

Nie Mingjue gives Lan Xichen a quick cheek kiss before sighing. “Indeed, he is. I’ll never hear the end of this.”

Nie Mingjue is right; fifteen minutes later, everyone is arriving outside the police station in a nervous huddle. Stumbling on Jiang Cheng’s shoulder is a visibly distressed Wei Wuxian, who hobbles over to Lan Wangji the moment he sees him. After checking to see if Lan Wangji is okay, he drops his crutch, holding fast.

“I can’t fucking believe they tried to kill you, Lan Zhan,” he murmurs, shaking with fury. “I’m so fucking pissed off.”

“It’s okay, Wei Ying. I’m okay.”

“And the Cloud Recesses?”

“Burned. But replaceable.”

Wei Wuxian nods into his shirt. “Yeah. Replaceable. Not like people.”

An awkward cough breaks them from their moment; Jin Zixuan stands, oddly repentant, in front of them.

“Um… so from what my lawyers have told me, it seems that my dear father had a hand in one too many pies, including whatever Wen Ruohan was up to.”

“Is that shocking to you?” Wei Wuxian asks, voice sharp. “It’s not like he was ever on the straight and narrow to begin with.”

Tightening his fists in irritation, Jin Zixuan takes a deep breath before turning his attention toward Lan Wangji, and now Lan Xichen who walks up behind him.

“Point is, it’s clear my father is about to step down despite admitting to nothing. I’m about to inherit the shit show. Whatever I can do to support rebuilding the Cloud Recesses, I am willing to do.”

“We appreciate that, Jin Zixuan. We can discuss more later when my Uncle is back in town, and after he’s… dealt with this news.” Dread fills both Lans’ chests when they think of how apoplectic Lan Qiren is about to be.

“Help rebuild Cloud Recesses?” Wei Wuxian rankles. “What about Lotus Pier? Jin Guangshan probably had a hand in that too!”

Tossing his hands through his hair in fury, Jin Zixuan glares at Wei Wuxian.

“Oh my god, I was already doing that for Yanli, you asshole!”

“Oh, I’m the as- Lan Zhan, let me go, I’m going to remind my sister’s unfortunate husband just how bad I can be!”

Lan Wangji does not let Wei Wuxian go. Eventually they all go their separate ways, with Lan Xichen promising that he’ll make the phone calls to parents and students, and encouraging Lan Wangji to rest.

After a long, hot shower, Lan Wangji crawls into bed after Wei Wuxian, who begins lovingly stroking his hair.

“Long night, hm? Being the hero again?”  

“Mn. Had to come back to Wei Ying.” He says it lightly, but he remembers that for a moment there, in the flames… “You were my motivation when we were lost in the flames.”

With a sad sigh, Wei Wuxian swallows whatever else he has to say, instead pulling him into his chest. “I’m so glad you’re safe. This is all I’ll ever want to do, is cuddle with you and keep you safe. This time, you’re not leaving the bed until I say so.”

Lan Wangji is familiar with the feeling; it was the same way he felt the first night after Wei Wuxian’s attack. “I agree.”

Squeezing tighter, Wei Wuxian grins. “I know it’s technically daylight now, but good night, Lan Zhan.”

“Mn. Good night. Love you.”

A month later, their lives almost seem completely different. On a larger, business scale, they’re doing better than ever. Nie Mingjue, head of the QingheNie media corporation, is completely ready to swoop in with new contracts after the Wen/Jin scandal is revealed. This includes advertisements for Lotus Pier and the Cloud Recesses, since Nie Huaisang and Lan Xichen had successfully convinced him to invest. As Nie Huaisang predicted, QingheNie flourished under the new types of media, leading to more than enough to fund a full rebuild of the Cloud Recesses (including replacing Lan Qiren’s desk). Though Jin Zixuan inherited a mess, he’s been slowly but surely rebuilding the Jin image with his steadfast, almost naively well-intentioned leadership, aided by the guidance of the sweet Jiang Yanli.

The YunmengJiang finally rebuilt Lotus Pier after fully knocking down the original. Seeing as the Nightless City dance competition was over, that opportunity to get their name out was gone, but the positive press from both QingheNie and the negative press of the scandal more than made up for it. However, the YunmengJiang have promised Wei Wuxian that they wouldn’t begin without him, making sure he was constantly a part of the design and decorating and lesson planning. His knee is doing better already, though it will still be some time before he can truly participate.

Lan Wangji bought a new, larger townhome for them both, with a backyard for Bichen to frolic freely, and built in a small studio. Though he can’t do much on his own right now, Wei Wuxian happily introduced Lan Wangji to hip rolls that left him salivating, and Lan Qiren scandalized (he’d walked in Lan Wangji practicing them one day). His uncle isn’t the largest fan of Wei Wuxian, considering him ‘shameless’ and ‘undisciplined’, but has learned to be cordial for Lan Wangji’s sake. This is likely because Lan Wangji has simply never told him the truth behind the bar fight, that took his Uncle weeks to forgive him for.

“What happened to Lans don’t lie?” Wei Wuxian had teased.

“Not lying. Simply not telling.”

The way Wei Wuxian had tossed his head back to laugh left Lan Wangji so warm and overwhelmed that he rushed in for kisses, and if those kisses had led to long, passionate love on the studio floor, that was between them and their reflections.

In fact, they made love so often in that room that they bought a chaise lounge specifically for it, though if anyone asked, it was for Wei Wuxian to ‘recline decadently’ as he watched his boyfriend get in extra practice. Lan Wangji is mid-thrust when Wei Wuxian’s phone rings, the familiar ringtone giving his boyfriend pause.

“Wait, Lan Zhan! It’s Shijie.”

“En.”

“No, I’m not going to make her wait! Give me my phone!”

The phone call opens to the sound of arguing boys in the background; it’s clear whatever video game they were playing has infuriated Jin Ling and Lan Jingyi, with a placating Lan Sizhui in the middle.

“A-Xian, would you and Lan Wangji like to go to the Winter Festival of Lights, tonight?” Jiang Yanli asks, her calm voice only slightly belying her stress. “I think the boys need to release some energy, and prayerfully not on anything fragile. I invited the team as well.”

“I-”

Lan Wangji moves, emulating the hip rolls Wei Wuxian taught him. It seems to work, Wei Wuxian’s eyes rolling into the back of his head for a moment. With a small triumphant smile, Lan Wangji leans forward to take a nipple in his mouth. Wei Wuxian is red-faced as he answers.

“Shijie, you’re too good for this world! We’d love to come!”

“Mn, Wei Ying is correct.”

Biting his lip to avoid laughing at the naughty joke, Wei Wuxian holds a hand over Lan Wangji’s wet lips, thrusting on his own. “Text me where to meet you, and we’ll be there, okay?”

Jiang Yanli is saying her goodbyes as Lan Wangji struggles to hold in his moans, watching salaciously as Wei Wuxian grinds underneath him. When the call ends, he quickly but gently takes Wei Wuxian’s leg at the knee.

“I will need to support this leg; tell me if it hurts.”

“I will.”

They are gasping each other’s names by the time they come, thrusting fervently. When they’re done, they lay back onto the chaise lounge, content.

“I never dreamt my life would go this way, Lan Zhan. It’s so wonderful.”

“Mn. I agree.”

“You would, wouldn’t you? Shameless! We need to shower, soon. She wants us over at the Jin estate in two hours.”

They have to go one more round in the shower after Wei Wuxian begins humming The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, but once they are clean, it also helps him remember something.

“Wei Ying. I have a gift for you.”

“Hm?”

Wei Wuxian gasps when he pulls out multiple tickets, box seating, for The Nutcracker. Though the first performance is on Friday, he’s bought prime tickets on a Saturday showing.

“Lan Zhan, these must have cost a fortune! I’d appreciate it if you bought these for me alone, but for everybody?”

“It is no worry. Wei Ying’s family and friends matter to me because they matter to him. I want to be a part of that family, one day.”

His foot is already firmly in his mouth, and of course Wei Wuxian caught it, eyes widening.

“Do- do you mean?”

Ears red, Lan Wangji nods. “I- I don’t have anything right now, Wei Ying. But I want you to know that I want to. I didn’t want to rush things but… I know how I feel. I am willing to wait.”

Wei Wuxian gives him a gentle smile, holding his arms out for a hug. “Lan Zhan, you could have proposed with these tickets and I’d have said yes.”

The night of the performance, Lan Wangji dances his heart out on that stage. Looking back, it would be described as one of his best, most passionate performances of his career so far, a true comeback for the reclusive ballet danseur. When they are all taking bows on stage, a large bouquet of roses lands in Lan Sizhui’s hands, who expertly runs them up to Lan Wangji. He only has to look up to the box seating to see Wei Wuxian, blowing him a kiss, and he smiles, inhaling the sweet smell. The image of a smiling Lan Wangji would be at the top of social media feeds for weeks. But none of this is what makes the night truly memorable for him.

When he walks out into the opulent lobby, filled with sparkling light from golden chandeliers and warmed by the crimson red carpet, he only looks for one man. One man in simple loose dress pants and a bright red bowtie, whose hair chaotically swings in his red ribbon, whose smile is amplified into being the most beautiful thing in the room.

He can only hope that diamond solitaire on white gold inside the velvet box, offered along with all the love and support in the world he can offer, would be enough to make that smile his for the rest of his life.

“Wei Ying.”

When Wei Wuxian turns, ready to congratulate him on the show, Lan Wangji falls to one knee.