|| 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 || ✓

| 12 |

In the quiet of the early morning, Zhan was the first to arrive at school, his mind buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming camping trip.

Sleep had eluded him, consumed as he was by thoughts of the adventure ahead. Rising from bed with a sense of purpose, he meticulously packed the items required for the excursion. Ensuring his appearance was impeccable as always, he spritzed on his favorite cologne, a hint of excitement lingering in the air.

His heart danced with eagerness at the thought of spending two days in the serene forest with Yibo, a chance to mend whatever rift had come between them. Lost in contemplation, Zhan was caught off guard when someone leaped onto his shoulders, causing both of them to tumble from their seats. As he hit the ground, a familiar voice filled the air.

"Zhan! I could hardly believe my eyes, man! How on earth are you here so early?!" Hao Xuan exclaimed, his punches landing playfully on Zhan's arms. It was typical of this boisterous friend. "Come on, get off," Zhan chuckled, pushing Xuan to the side as he rolled over on the floor. Laughter echoed through the room as other students entered, amused by their antics.

"Ayo? What the... you all are already ahead of us," Jiyang gasped, standing near the door with Jiang Cheng and Yibo by his sides. Zhan glanced toward the entrance, locking eyes with Yibo. Suddenly, his mouth fell open.

Yibo had his hair up, revealing his forehead, and he was dressed in black ripped jeans paired with a black sweatshirt. Another detail caught Zhan's eye-Yibo was wearing earrings. He looked strikingly handsome, too much for Zhan to bear, so he averted his gaze to catch his breath.

Yibo noticed Zhan looking away and interpreted it as a sign that perhaps Zhan wasn't ready to talk to him yet. Quietly, he settled near Jiyang while Jiang Cheng dealt with Xuan, who was busy cracking jokes about random topics. Every so often, Zhan would steal glances towards Yibo, his lips curling into a subtle smile.

"Alright, class, please proceed to the bus and make sure to keep your belongings secure," the teacher announced, prompting a flurry of excitement and cheers among the students.

Jiang Cheng led the way towards the bus, with Jiyang and Xuan following closely behind. "Zhan, it looks like this bus is full. Let's catch the one behind us with Yibo," Jiyang informed Zhan, gesturing towards the crowded bus.

Zhan glanced at Yibo, who returned the look with a puzzled expression.

"The bus is full, we'll take the next one," Zhan signed to Yibo.

"Okay," Yibo signed back in response.

Amidst the rush, with students pushing past each other, Zhan gently took Yibo's hand, ensuring they stayed together as they made their way towards the bus.

Yibo couldn't help but feel a jolt of electricity when Zhan's hand enveloped his own. His cheeks flushed bright red as he savored the warmth of Zhan's touch. Once on the bus, they found their seats. Yibo chose the window seat, a familiar preference, and Zhan didn't object. However, Yibo discreetly pointed towards their entwined hands, silently questioning.

"Huh?" Zhan responded in confusion, then realized he was still holding Yibo's hand. Quickly pulling away, he covered his face in embarrassment, averting his gaze.

Yibo couldn't suppress a soft chuckle, causing Zhan to smile shyly beneath his hands. The journey to the hill seemed to stretch on, and Yibo decided to take a quick nap. Zhan, engrossed in his book, froze when he felt Yibo's head gently resting on his shoulder.

He could feel the heat of a blush creeping up his neck, but he carefully adjusted his posture to make it more comfortable for Yibo. Glancing down, he admired Yibo's peaceful sleeping face, almost tempted to lean down and kiss his soft lips. However, he managed to restrain himself, contenting himself with holding Yibo's hand as they both drifted off to sleep.

.

.

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"They look absolutely adorable! Let me capture another picture," a girl cooed, her voice filled with excitement.

"Be careful, they might wake up," another voice chimed in, a note of caution lacing the words.

"Remember, it's not right to take pictures of them without their consent," a more serious tone followed.

But amidst the giggling and clicking sounds of cameras, Zhan was stirred from his sleep. Blinking away the drowsiness, he found himself at the center of attention, surrounded by curious students snapping photos. Yibo, still deep in slumber, clung to him like a koala. As the students abruptly turned away, feigning innocence, Zhan realized they had arrived at their destination.

Realizing Yibo was still fast asleep, Zhan gently shook his arms, attempting to rouse him. However, Yibo showed no signs of stirring. With a mischievous smile, Zhan decided to playfully pinch his cheek, only to have Yibo respond by biting his finger, eyes still closed.

Zhan's gaze lingered on Yibo's lips, irresistibly kissable, before Yibo's stern look broke his reverie. Clearly annoyed at being awakened, Yibo glared at him, prompting Zhan to apologize. "Sorry, Yibo, but we have to get off the bus now," he explained, noticing Yibo's focused gaze on his lips.

Yibo nodded, stretching his arms as he prepared to disembark. As Zhan watched him, it dawned on him that Yibo had been reading his lips to understand him not actually kiss him. In that moment, Zhan couldn't help but feel like a typical delusional fangirl, lost in his own fantasies.

🌻~🕊~🌻~🕊~🌻~🕊~🌻~🕊~

Hey guys! Hope y'all like this chapter. Like and comment if you enjoyed it ^^