Moonlit Hearts

Chapter 25: Oracles

Wangji awoke to the soft light of dawn filtering through the curtains. The room was quiet, save for the gentle breathing of Wei Ying beside him. He turned his head slightly, taking in the sight of Wei Ying, still peacefully asleep, his face relaxed and serene.

For a moment, Wangji simply lay there, absorbing the tranquility of the morning and the warmth radiating from Wei Ying. He could hardly believe that after so many years of searching and longing, they were finally together again. The memories of the previous night's reunion were still fresh, filling him with a profound sense of contentment.

Carefully, so as not to wake Wei Ying, Wangji shifted closer, allowing their bodies to touch. The simple contact reassured him that this was real, that Wei Ying was right where he belonged. He brushed a stray strand of hair from Wei Ying's face, his touch feather-light, and watched as Wei Ying stirred slightly but did not wake. Wangji smiled, remembering how Wei Ying had always been a heavy sleeper.

Taking a deep breath, Wangji savored the moment. He knew they had many challenges ahead, but right now, all that mattered was the present—the peaceful rise and fall of Wei Ying's chest, the soft morning light, and the shared warmth under the covers.

Gently, Wangji pressed a soft kiss to Wei Ying's forehead before settling back into the pillows. He allowed himself to bask in the serenity of the moment, cherishing the precious time they had together. He did not fall back asleep, too captivated by the sight of Wei Ying and the quiet miracle of this morning.

Wei Ying, as if sensing Wangji's gaze on him, began to stir. His eyes fluttered open, scanning the room briefly before settling on Wangji. A smile bloomed on his face, as radiant and beautiful as a flower in full blossom, filling the room with warmth.

"Hello," Wei Ying greeted, his voice drowsy with sleep.

"Hello," Wangji replied softly.

"What time is it?" Wei Ying asked, his eyes still half-closed.

"It's 8 a.m.," Wangji answered after glancing at the alarm clock on his bedside table.

"Mmm, it's so early," Wei Ying murmured, his voice trailing off as he slowly slid closer to Wangji, nestling his head against Wangji's neck.

Wangji lifted his hand to gently comb Wei Ying's hair. "We have to get up; we have a long road ahead," he said, kissing the top of Wei Ying's head.

Wei Ying slowly sat up, still half asleep, rubbing his eyes. Wangji smiled at his effort. "Come on, I'll make breakfast while you get ready," he offered, giving Wei Ying's shoulder a reassuring squeeze before getting out of bed.

As Wangji busied himself in the kitchen, the comforting aroma of breakfast gradually roused Wei Ying from his sleepy state. They moved through their morning routine with a sense of normalcy, but an undercurrent of anticipation thrummed beneath the surface. The journey ahead weighed heavily on their minds, each moment bringing them closer to the unknown answers they sought.

After a quiet breakfast, they prepared for the day, packing their belongings and ensuring they had everything they needed for the trip. Wangji's meticulous nature meant that nothing was overlooked, from supplies to protective talismans.

Finally, they were ready. They stood by the door, casting one last look around the familiar space. Wangji had arranged for Jingyi to return and keep Sizhui company during their absence. Knowing that Jingyi always carried warning talismans eased Wangji's worry about potential threats.

Sizhui approached, his expression filled with worry. "Dad, Papa, please be careful," he said anxiously, looking at both of them.

Wei Ying, who had embraced his fatherhood and his identity fully, pulled Sizhui into a tight hug. His instincts took over as he hummed softly, stroking Sizhui's hair in a comforting gesture he had done countless times before even if he does not remember it.