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 lingering in the air. The loss of Wei Ying's sister, Yanli, and the mystery surrounding her fate filled his thoughts, leaving an ache in his chest. He could feel the depth of Wei Ying's sorrow, and his own heart tightened in response.

As Wei Ying drifted into sleep, Lan Wangji prepared a cup of tea and began tidying the room in silence. His actions, though quiet, spoke volumes—unwavering support and care, a comfort he could offer in the face of unspoken grief. Over time, his feelings for Wei Ying had grown, and though he didn't voice them, they had become an integral part of his life. The happiness and light Wei Ying brought into his world were irreplaceable.

Still, a simmering anger bubbled beneath the surface, directed at Odin's decision. Lan Wangji didn't know the specifics of Yanli's supposed transgression, but the punishment seemed too cruel, too undeserving. He despised seeing Wei Ying in such sorrow, helpless against the injustices that had befallen his sister.

After everything had been tidied to his satisfaction, Lan Wangji sat in the quiet room, his hands moving with practiced ease as he summoned his guqin. He adjusted the strings carefully, the familiar ritual bringing a sense of calm. The first few notes flowed effortlessly, and he allowed himself to sink into the music, the soft strains echoing through the space.

For weeks now, his thoughts had centered on one person—Wei Ying. The feelings that had grown between them were clear, but Lan Wangji hesitated to voice them. Uncertainty clouded his mind. What would Wei Ying say? He had noticed the playful shifts in Wei Ying's behavior, the teasing, the small gestures to be near him. Was it just Wei Ying's natural exuberance, or was there something more? The question lingered, unanswered.

Lost in his thoughts, Lan Wangji didn't notice Wei Ying slip from the bed until he sat beside him, sipping his tea with a relaxed smile. Lan Wangji couldn't help but return the smile, the warmth in his chest impossible to ignore.

"Gege, are you playing music?" came a soft voice. A-Yuan, now awake, stood at the doorway, his eyes still heavy with sleep.

Both Lan Wangji and Wei Ying turned to the boy, smiles blooming on their faces. Wei Ying patted the spot beside him. "Come sit and listen to Gege play," he invited.

A-Yuan scrambled over eagerly, settling between them. Lan Wangji adjusted his fingers on the guqin, shifting to a more playful melody, the notes light and cheerful. He played for them, hoping to bring a moment of joy.

Sitting in Wei Ying's home, with A-Yuan nestled between them, Lan Wangji's heart swelled. The sight of them together felt like a piece of peace, the warmth of the moment settling over him. He cherished their friendship with Wei Ying, but in this quiet space, simply being by his side was enough.

***

One evening, Lan Wangji sat peacefully in the pristine garden of his Jingshi, a small, silky white rabbit nestled gently on his lap. His typically serious expression softened under the soothing stillness of the moment. The harmony of the scene was only slightly disturbed by the faint rustle of footsteps. Wei Ying approached, moving quietly to preserve the tranquil atmosphere.

He paused, observing Wangji with quiet affection. A tender smile lit his face as he took in the care with which Wangji tended to the rabbit.

"What a charming sight, Lan Zhan," he murmured, genuine admiration in his voice.

Lan Wangji lifted his gaze, and a subtle, almost imperceptible light brightened his eyes at the sight of Wei Ying. Gently setting the rabbit aside, he patted the space beside him. "Wei Ying, come sit with me."