Moonlit Hearts

Chapter 6: Unveiled Hearts

Lan Wangji gently tucked Wei Ying into bed, the weight of the painful memories they had just shared still heavy in the air. The loss of Wei Ying's beloved sister, Yanli, and the mysteries surrounding her fate consumed his thoughts.

Understanding the depth of Wei Ying's pain, Lan Wangji prepared a cup of tea and began tidying the room in silence. His actions were a heartfelt way of showing his unwavering support and care. He couldn't help but acknowledge the profound emotions he had developed for Wei Ying over time, a deep connection that had become an essential part of his life. The love and happiness Wei Ying brought into his world were irreplaceable.

Yet, even these deep feelings didn't quell the anger Lan Wangji felt towards Odin's decision, simmering just beneath the surface. While he didn't know the details of what Yanli had done to displease the god, he couldn't fathom it could have been so severe as to warrant such a cruel punishment. Regardless, he despised seeing Wei Ying in such sorrow.

As the notes flowed from his instrument, Lan Wangji allowed himself to get lost in his music and his thoughts, which had been consistently centered around the same person for weeks now.

He had been acutely aware of the growing feelings he held for Wei Ying, yet he hesitated to express them. Uncertainty clouded his mind as he pondered how his dear friend would react to the revelation of his emotions. Meanwhile, Wei Ying remained blissfully unaware of Wangji's silent affection. Lan Wangji had noticed a change in Wei Ying's behavior. Wei Ying had started to flirt and playfully engage with Wangji more frequently, seeking any excuse to be near him. This shift in their interactions led Lan Wangji to consider the possibility that his feelings weren't entirely one-sided. However, he also pondered if it was just Wei Ying's natural, playful demeanor.

Lost in his thoughts, Lan Wangji was startled when he felt someone sit beside him. Wei Ying had pulled himself out of bed and settled down next to him. Wangji couldn't help but smile at Wei Ying, who was sipping his tea, content in Wangji's presence.

Suddenly, the peaceful atmosphere was interrupted by a soft voice. "Gege, are you playing music?" A-Yuan, now awake, stood in the doorway, his eyes still heavy with sleep.

Lan Wangji and Wei Ying turned their attention to the little boy, their faces lighting up with warm smiles. Wei Ying patted the spot beside him and encouraged A-Yuan to join them, saying, "Come sit and listen to Gege play."

A-Yuan eagerly scrambled over, nestling himself between his two beloved figures. Lan Wangji responded by playing a more playful melody on his guqin, hoping to bring joy to both A-Yuan and Wei Ying.

Sitting in Wei Ying's home, with A-Yuan nestled between them, Lan Wangji couldn't help but feel his heart swell with affection. The picture they presented was a heartwarming one, and the thought that they could be seen as a happy family made his heart warmer. While he cherished their friendship with Wei Ying, he also found contentment in simply being by Wei Ying's side, no matter the role he played in his life. 

***

One evening, Wangji found himself in the serene garden of his Jingshi, cradling a small, fluffy white bunny in his lap. It was a tranquil and heartwarming scene, as Wangji's customary stoicism melted away in the presence of the tiny creature. Wei Ying arrived quietly, not wanting to disrupt the tranquility of the moment. He watched as Wangji tenderly cared for the bunny, a soft smile gracing his lips.

"What a peaceful sight, Lan Zhan," Wei Ying remarked, his voice gentle and filled with admiration.

Wangji looked up, his eyes brightening at the sight of Wei Ying. He carefully set the bunny aside and patted the spot next to him. "Wei Ying, come and join me."