(Jin Guangyao/Reader) You're my sun, my universe

Chapter 17: Reunited

Y/N = 28

You had no idea what was happening anymore. Every day you braced yourself for what you thought to be an unavoidable attack, believing that the illusions would shatter at any moment, and that when they did you would be killed.

Unless...you already dead and this was the afterlife?

It wasn't anything like the stories.

You never felt so at peace.

You did not have to put on a performance, to smile innocently as you whisper sweet words to people that would be rough in return. You didn't have to smile through the pain and act like you wanted more. You never felt the need to walk on eggshells, where any mistake you made was punished instantly.

The basement the madam used to lock you in.

The 'teaching sessions' Lord Xie would put you through.

Here, you spent your days peacefully; reading, playing on the guqin, wandering aimlessly around the estate, and relaxing on the porch, drinking tea and helping yourself to the variety of treats available. Furthermore, the young lady had kept you company whilst doing her chores, and you proactively continued your light questioning of the situation, though with varying levels of success.

'At least she looks entertained' you mused.

You had seen her laugh and smile at the insistent pestering you did, and while you didn't get any answers, you liked to believe that the two of you had gotten closer somewhat. Nevertheless, you knew it all had to come to an end soon, everything was too good to be true.

You had long accepted your death; you were waiting for the inevitable.

***

"A-Yao?..."

You couldn't believe the sight before you.

It was yet another normal day in this dreamlike landscape...well it was supposed to be and yet the sight before you made your heart quiver. You knew logically that it had to be some sort of illusion, as there was no way it was possible.

It was Meng Yao?

He changed, while his its distinct features were still there, the skin seemed, fair and flawless, and it's hair seemed to shine, which complimented the distinct hazel pupils. You had always thought that Meng Yao looked beautiful, but he has never looked so ethereal before.

Seeing him must be the beginning of the end.

You would be devoured.

They would give you one last ounce of happiness before everything would end.

...And yet you couldn't help but indulge.

The illusion responded to your calling, "A-(Y/N)..." it began softly, its features paused in hesitance, as if carefully reviewing the right words it should say. At the sight you were tempted to laugh, the illusion was truly trying it's best to immaculate Meng Yao and his quirks to the point that it was hesitating on saying more.

It was almost kind...to think that it would put so much effort in to simply to trick you.

"How...have you been?" it finally decided on after what seemed like an internal strife within itself. This mundane question made your lips quirk up in response.

How cute...usually in your dreams he never responded but simply stared at you blankly, and yet here he had expressions on his face. Of which were a mixture of several things at once; regret...sadness...happiness?