The Return of Bliss (ZhanYi)

Chapter 03

Out of all the people in this world, was it you? But where are you?
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"Can I ask you something?" Xiao Zhan said, trying to keep the conversation light "What's your name?"

The boy turned his head slightly, his voice soft and tired

"Wang Yibo" Yibo answered

After a few minutes of silence, Xiao Zhan spoke "Uh- uhh Wang Yibo.. uh, can you tell me you home address.. then you can rest, I must wake you up upon reaching there" he said in a soft yet stuttering voice

Wang Yibo took a moment, his eyes closing momentarily as he focused on recalling the address. And then he finally murmured his address, His voice was weak, but he still managed to provide the details

Xiao Zhan nodded, noting the address. The drive was quiet, with only the hum of the engine and the occasional rustle of movement from Wang Yibo. As they traveled, Xiao Zhan found himself frequently glancing over at Wang Yibo. Despite his injuries, Yibo's delicate features and the serene way he slept stirred something within Xiao Zhan. He couldn't quite place the feeling just like an odd mix of concern and a strange, unspoken connection

After about thirty minutes, they arrived at the address Yibo had given. It was dark outside, and the only illumination came from the streetlights casting a soft glow. Xiao Zhan carefully pulled the car to a stop and turned off the engine

He glanced at Yibo, who was still sleeping soundly despite the discomfort of his injuries. Xiao Zhan felt an unexpected surge of tenderness as he watched the boy's peaceful expression. His gaze softened, and an involuntary smile touched his lips

"So beautiful" he murmured and as the urge took over him, Xiao Zhan leaned in and gently kissed Yibo's forehead. The touch was light, almost reverent, and Yibo stirred slightly but did not wake. Xiao Zhan quickly pulled back, his heart pounding at the sudden intimacy of the gesture. He felt a mix of embarrassment and a deep, unspoken affection

Coming back to sense, Xiao Zhan put on his mask in order to hide his face, then he shook the boy gently to rouse him. "Wang Yibo, we're here...You need to wake up"

Yibo's eyes fluttered open, and he winced as he tried to move a little. His movements were sluggish, clearly hindered by pain and exhaustion. Xiao Zhan helped him out of the car, supporting him as he steadied himself

As they approached the front door of Yibo's house, and on knocking the door, it swung open abruptly. Yibo's father stood there, his expression a mixture of shock and relief. His eyes quickly took in the sight of his battered son being helped by a stranger

"Yibo! Son! What happened? Where have you been? Your phone was off as well!" Wang Qiren exclaimed, his voice trembling with concern looking at his son in this state

Yibo, too weak and in too much pain to respond, leaned heavily on Xiao Zhan for support, Xiao Zhan held him securely and taking the initiative to explain he spoke

"Hello, sir" he said, his voice calm and steady, but he refrained from introducing himself. Also that of mentioning his little brother's name. "Actually, my little brother and Wang Yibo got into a difficult situation. They were attacked by some thugs. It's a good thing that my brother called and informed me about their situation and I hurried there. I wanted to bring him to the hospital first but your son insisted that he wants to go home and not hospital so I brought him here"

Wang Qiren looked at Xiao Zhan with a mixture of gratitude and worry "Thank you for bringing him home, son. I appreciate your help. Thank you so much"