[[忘羡 | WangXian 2]] : The Green-eyed Мonster

[16.] Seven Days of Anavrin.

Note:

The title of this chapter is taken (and inspired) from one of my absolutely favorite songs by one of my absolutely favorite bands. 🥰💜💙🖤 It is not related to the MDZS franchise. 

If you are interested to listen, here it is. 

All credit goes to... Lord Of The Lost, and  Out Of Line Music, I guess?

*****

They spent a restless night together, and in the morning, as Lan Xichen was taking his goodbyes, Lan Zhan used the opportunity to address everyone with his announcement.

- As you all know, New Year's Eve is almost upon us. As we will be entering the Year of the Horse soon, my husband and I have decided to extend the festivities, and start a little sooner. – Lan Zhan stole a quick glance at his brother, and then turned to look at Wei Ying, who was grinning happily. – As of today, we declare seven days of time off duty and off classes.

There was loud cheering, mostly coming from the disciples of the Lan Clan, but one strict look from Hanguang-Jun cooled the passions and momentarily there was complete silence again. Lan Wangji continued:

- We will strive to focus more on family, and harmony, and perseverance, in this upcoming year. I hope we all work even harder than before to make this happen.

Everybody bowed, and he felt Wei Ying step up and come stand closer to him, and take his hand in his own. His touch was warm, and Lan Zhan said loudly, finding a new strength in himself:

- All servants will be paid in full for those days. All disciples will be exempt from homework assignments.

Wei Ying turned his head sharply to look at him in surprise  –  this was very unlike his strict Shizun.  Lan Zhan looked up at his brother and saw him smiling and nodding lightly in approval.

- Go, be with your loved ones. May the year be calm, peaceful, and wise. For all of us.

He bowed slightly, and all people in the yard bowed back, happy and satisfied with this arrangement. Then suddenly there was a fuss and hurry as everyone was impatient to pack up and leave for home.

Wei Ying was watching them amused, and when Lan Xichen approached them, he grinned shamelessly and said:

- Zewu-Jun, Zewu-Jun,  I really don't know what you said to my Hanguang-Jun yesterday, but I think you should come and visit us  more often!!!  –  he laughed happily.

- I can assure you, Young Master Wei, I have nothing to do with all this.  –  Lan Xichen smiled gently and his hand described a semi-circle, referring to the tumult around them.  –  But I approve. It is a wise choice, Wangji.

Lan Zhan bowed, all flushed and silent now  –  he disliked talking in front of people too much. It was usually Wei Wuxian who handled the household and servants, and he was grateful for it.

The two brothers took their goodbyes, and Wei Ying was very surprised when Lan Xichen gave him a hug before he left.

- Take good care of him, Wei Wuxian. He loves you very much.  –  he smiled.

- Ge!  –  Lan Zhan's face was burning now; it was not like his brother to speak like this in public.

- I promise, Zewu-Jun!  –  Wei Ying smiled back, taking Lan Zhan's hand in his again.

They were standing at the gate, seeing everyone off  –  all residents of the House were adamant to say their blessings, thanks and goodbyes personally. In the end, only one person was left behind. Bai Li approached them as everyone else was gone, bowed respectfully, and said:

- If my Masters would allow it, I'd rather stay here, and take care of the house. I really... have no place to go.  –  she bowed again.

Wei Ying raised an eyebrow, but did not comment.

- I see. Well, you are practically family now, annoying young woman!  –  he grinned and put a hand on her shoulder, encouraging her to stand up.  –  You can stay. I can't cook, and Lan Zhan's tea could kill an ox, trust me!  –  he grinned.

- Wei Ying!  – Lan Zhan snapped, frowning.

- What now?! Lan Zhan, do you want us to starve, eh???  –  he laughed, winking at his annoyed husband.

Bai Li's face beamed.

- I will be honored to take care of my Masters. You are my family now indeed, Hanguang-Jun, Wei Qianbei.  –  she bowed again, retreating and leaving them alone, happy to be able to oblige.