🫧REDEMPTION // Zhanyi ff

4🫧

[Adrian- Did I ever tell you that there won't be any smut because as a boy I really don't find myself comfortable in writing it yet.]

The city lights painted a mesmerizing canvas as Zhan and Yibo walked along the bustling streets, hands in hands, swaying left and right.

The atmosphere was alive with a mix of laughter, music, and the distant hum of traffic. Their hearts felt content and full yet the insecurities had a little corner of it.

One was afraid about his first love experience and wanted to do everything to make it a magical love tale while the other was just afraid of getting hurt yet willing to risk everything for this newfound love.

Zhan glanced at his angel, who was lost in thought, a hint of contemplation in his eyes. He was literally shining like fairy dust.

The older couldn't help but feel a pang of curiosity about the boy who had entered his life like a mysterious gust of wind. From the day Yibo has came in his life, everything just feels strange, a good kind of strange.

As they entered a charming café to spend some time together, Yibo's gaze finally met him, and a warm smile graced his lips. "I've heard great things about this place. I hope you'll enjoy it."

Zhan nodded, his heart racing slightly as he looked into his eyes. "I'm sure I will. But honestly, I'm more interested in getting to know the person I'm with."

Yibo was a little stunned at the reply. His cheeks tinged with a delicate blush, and he ducked his head slightly. "Well then, let's start with the basics. What's your favorite dish?"

Zhan leaned back in his chair, his gaze never leaving younger as he sat with his legs manspread openly. "Japchae."

Yibo's lips curved into a smile, and he seemed genuinely engaged in their conversation. The more they talked, the more Zhan felt a connection forming - a bond that was beyond surface-level attraction.

As they shared stories and anecdotes, the older noticed a certain sadness that occasionally flickered across younger's eyes. He just couldn't simply ignore the sadness which seems to swim in Yibo's eyes from time to time.

It was as if there was a barrier he was hesitant to break, a secret younger kept hidden. And it made Zhan a lot curious.

Yet, in those moments when the younger one laughed freely or spoke with enthusiasm, Zhan saw a glimpse of the vibrant boy beneath the facade.

Eventually, the topic shifted to relationships, and Yibo's demeanor turned slightly more guarded. His composition became a bit more reserved, his jaw tightening a little as he tried to form a smile.

"Have you ever been in love, Zhan?"

Zhan took a sip of his tea, his gaze thoughtful. "I've had my fair share of relationships, but I can't say I've truly been in love."

Yibo nodded, his fingers tracing the rim of his cup. "Love can be a tricky thing. Sometimes, it blinds us to the truth, and other times, it reveals who we really are."

Younger's words lingered in the air, carrying a weight that resonated with Zhan.

He knew there was more to his statement than met the eye, and he couldn't help but wonder what had shaped his perspective on love. He wanted to know what had Yibo think like that about love. It was triggering him a lot, silently.

Their conversation continued, flowing seamlessly from one topic to another. Its just their vibe matched with each other and their chatting knew no end because there was a familiar feeling between them which made them feel like they've known each other for years.

Zhan found himself opening up more than he ever had before, sharing parts of himself he usually kept hidden. It was as if yibo's presence had a way of pulling him out of his shell, revealing the person he was becoming- a person he liked even more.

As the evening wore on, the cafe's ambiance shifted from bustling to tranquil. Zhan's eyes met Yibo's, and he saw a mixture of emotions reflected in his gaze-curiosity, vulnerability, and something he couldn't quite pinpoint.

"Yibo" he began, his voice soft, "there's something about you that intrigues me. It's like there's a story behind your eyes, and I'm curious to know more."

The younger looked down at his hands, his expression conflicted. "Zhan ge, sometimes the past is better left in the shadows."

The brunette reached out, his hand gently covering his. "Baob-Yibo, I don't know what you're hiding, but I want you to know that whatever it is, you can trust me. I'm here for you."

Tears welled in the younger's eyes, and he blinked them away, his voice unsteady. "You don't understand, Zhan. The truth could change everything. Maybe we'll be over by that time. There's something which I'm carrying like a burden and the guilt is too much."

Zhan squeezed his hand reassuringly. "Maybe that's a risk worth taking. I believe in second chances, and I believe in you."

As the night wore on, Zhan's and Yibo's connection deepened, their hearts entwining in a way that neither of them had anticipated.

Yet, in the midst of this burgeoning love, there remained secrets that threatened to unravel their fragile bond.

Yibo felt the weight of his mission of a certain revenge tugging at his heartstrings, while Zhan unknowingly placed his trust in the hands of the person who would eventually break it.

In the end, destiny's tapestry was intricate, woven with threads of emotions, secrets, and unforeseen twists. Two hearts danced on the edge of the paradise, blissfully unware of the storm which was to strike real soon.

To be continued.....