JC x LXC one-shots

Tender Embrace

Jiang Cheng stood at the edge of the picturesque lotus pond, its calm waters reflecting the moon's gentle glow. The soft breeze caressed his face, but his heart was far from tranquil. Thoughts of battles and responsibilities plagued his mind, but amidst the chaos, one person's presence could always bring him solace.

Lan Xichen approached Jiang Cheng from behind, his steps as graceful as a swan. Jiang Cheng could sense his presence even before he spoke. "Jiang Wanyin, the night is beautiful, is it not?"

Jiang Cheng turned to face Lan Xichen, his gaze meeting the tender warmth in the older man's eyes. "Hmph, it's just another night," he grumbled, attempting to mask his own vulnerability.

But Lan Xichen saw through his facade. "Jiang Wanyin, I know the burdens you bear are heavy. Let me share the weight with you, if only for a moment."

Jiang Cheng's heart skipped a beat at Lan Xichen's words. It was as if the heavens themselves had opened up to grant him respite. With a soft sigh, he nodded and allowed himself to lean against the sturdy form of Lan Xichen.

Underneath the moonlit sky, they stood in silence, their bodies speaking the language of unspoken affection. Jiang Cheng marveled at the strength he found in Lan Xichen's embrace. It was a strength that didn't demand anything in return, but instead offered solace and understanding.

As they stood there, Jiang Cheng felt his defenses slowly crumbling. He was tired of the facade, tired of the constant battles he fought, and tired of pretending not to care. With a shaky voice, he whispered, "I wish... I wish things were different."

Lan Xichen tightened his grip, providing a reassuring anchor. "I know, Jiang Wanyin. Life has dealt us difficult hands, but I believe in our capacity to find happiness, even amidst the culture of chaos."

Jiang Cheng's eyes glistened with unshed tears. He had never allowed himself to be vulnerable in front of anyone, but with Lan Xichen, it felt safe. "Lan Xichen, I..." he began, his voice wavering.

But Lan Xichen pressed a finger gently against Jiang Cheng's lips, silencing him. "No words are necessary, Jiang Wanyin. Your heart speaks volumes, and I have heard its longing."

In that moment, time seemed to stand still. Jiang Cheng leaned into Lan Xichen's touch, his heart swelling with emotions he had long kept locked away. It was a risk, a leap of faith, but in the gentle presence of Lan Xichen, he found the courage to take it.

Their lips met in a soft and tender kiss, as if two souls finding solace in one another. The world around them ceased to exist as they embraced the warmth and comfort they had yearned for. In that kiss, all the pain, the sorrow, and the longing were swept away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of love.

When they finally pulled away, their foreheads rested against each other, and their breaths mingled. Jiang Cheng could feel his heartbeat in sync with Lan Xichen's, a melody of hope and belonging.

"Jiang Wanyin, I don't know what the future holds, but I want to face it with you," Lan Xichen whispered, his voice filled with unwavering devotion.

Jiang Cheng's eyes met Lan Xichen's, and in that shared gaze, he found a glimmer of the happiness he had always yearned for. "I don't know either, Lan Xichen, but I want to find out."

Hand in hand, they walked away from the lotus pond, their steps filled with newfound hope and the promise of a love that would transcend the trials of their lives. Together, they would face the world, for their hearts had found solace in each other's embrace.