Bound By Fate (BL)

The Lantern Night

The next morning dawned bright and clear, bringing a sense of calm and normalcy . However, Lin Yu couldn't shake the lingering unease from the previous night's events. His thoughts were a jumble of the dark figure they had fought and the cryptic words it had left behind. Despite the worries, Xu Wei's presence was a constant source of comfort.

Xu Wei noticed Lin Yu's restlessness and suggested a break . "How about we visit the night market in the town nearby?" he proposed. "It might help clear our minds."

Lin Yu's face lit up at the suggestion. "That sounds wonderful."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, they set out for the town, their spirits lifted by the prospect of a relaxing evening. The night market was bustling with activity, colorful stalls lining the streets, and the air filled with the enticing scents of street food. Lanterns of all shapes and sizes hung overhead, casting a warm, golden glow over the scene.

Xu Wei and Lin Yu wandered through the market, marveling at the variety of goods and food on display. Lin Yu's eyes sparkled with excitement as he sampled different delicacies, from savory dumplings to sweet pastries. Xu Wei watched him with a soft smile, enjoying the sight of Lin Yu's cheerful personality shining through.

As they walked, they came across a stall selling paper lanterns. The vendor explained that it was a tradition to write a wish on the lantern before releasing it into the sky.

"Shall we?" Xu Wei asked, picking up a lantern.

Lin Yu nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, let's do it!"

They each took a lantern and a brush, carefully writing their wishes. Lin Yu glanced at Xu Wei, wondering what he was wishing for. Xu Wei's expression was serious as he wrote, but a faint blush dusted his cheeks. Lin Yu found himself blushing too as he thought about his own wish.

Once they were finished, they stood side by side, holding their lanterns. With a deep breath, they released them into the night sky. The lanterns floated upward, glowing softly as they carried their wishes toward the stars.

"What did you wish for?" Lin Yu asked curiously.

Xu Wei smiled, a hint of mystery in his eyes. "It's a secret."

Lin Yu laughed. "Alright, I'll keep mine a secret too."

They continued to explore the market, eventually coming to a serene river where boats were available for a short ride. Xu Wei suggested they take a boat and enjoy the peaceful waters. Lin Yu agreed, feeling a sense of calm wash over him as they boarded a small wooden boat.

As they drifted along the river, the moonlight reflecting off the water created a magical atmosphere. Lin Yu leaned over the side, gazing at the shimmering surface. Suddenly, the boat rocked, and he lost his balance. Before he could fall into the water, Xu Wei's strong arms wrapped around his waist, pulling him back.

Their faces were inches apart, and Lin Yu's heart raced as he stared into Xu Wei's eyes. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in that moment. Xu Wei's hand lingered on Lin Yu's waist, the touch sending a warm, electric feeling through him.

"Be careful," Xu Wei murmured, his voice soft and full of concern.

Lin Yu nodded, unable to find his voice. The closeness, the warmth of Xu Wei's body against his, and the intensity of his gaze made Lin Yu's heart beat even faster. He could see a faint blush on Xu Wei's cheeks, mirroring his own.

As they continued their boat ride, the initial tension eased into a comfortable silence, both of them savoring the quiet intimacy of the moment. The boat ride ended all too soon, and they reluctantly returned to the market.

Back on solid ground, Xu Wei took Lin Yu's hand, their fingers intertwining naturally. "Thank you for coming with me tonight," Xu Wei said softly.

Lin Yu squeezed Xu Wei's hand gently. "Thank you for suggesting it. I had a wonderful time."

They walked back to the camp hand in hand, the bond between them growing stronger with each passing moment. The night market, the lanterns, and the boat ride had brought them closer together, creating memories that would stay with them forever.