"Bound by Destiny"

Chapter 18: The Weight of Expectations

Two years had passed since Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian’s wedding, and the seasons had changed many times in the Cloud Recesses. Wei Wuxian was now fourteen, no longer a child but not quite an adult, caught in that awkward stage of growth where he was still finding his footing. The once small, mischievous boy had grown taller, his features becoming sharper and more defined, yet he retained his boyish charm and boundless energy. His laughter still echoed through the courtyards, and his curiosity was as insatiable as ever.

Lan Wangji, now in his mid-twenties, watched Wei Wuxian closely. His feelings for Wei Wuxian had deepened, turning from the protective fondness of a guardian to something more intense and personal. But he was always mindful of Wei Wuxian’s age and the responsibility he bore. Lan Wangji’s restraint was a constant reminder of his discipline, but it was also a source of quiet frustration — a storm he kept hidden behind his calm exterior.

**Whispers and Judgments**

However, not everyone shared Lan Wangji’s understanding. Whispers had begun to circulate among the clans, particularly during cultivation conferences and gatherings. While most were respectful of the alliance between the Lan and Jiang sects, some couldn’t resist gossiping about the marriage that had not yet produced an heir. The union was seen by some as strange — a union of convenience, a political move, rather than one of true partnership.

“They’ve been married for two years, and still no child?” one sect leader remarked during a banquet. His voice was low, but the disdain in his tone was clear. “Perhaps the rumors are true. They say Wei Wuxian was too young, too immature for such responsibilities.”

“It’s no surprise,” another added, shaking his head. “The Lan Sect is known for its strict discipline. Perhaps the boy simply cannot keep up with Lan Wangji’s standards.”

The words were like poison, seeping into the atmosphere and reaching Wei Wuxian’s ears more often than not. He would pretend not to care, brushing off the comments with his usual bravado, but inside, they cut deeper than he let on.

**The Strain of Expectations**

One evening, after a particularly long day of training and listening to more murmurs about their marriage, Wei Wuxian found himself sitting by the pond, staring at his reflection in the water. His heart felt heavy, and for the first time, the usual sparkle in his eyes was dulled by doubt.

Lan Wangji approached quietly, as he often did, and sat beside Wei Wuxian without a word. The silence between them was filled with an unspoken understanding, a bond that had grown stronger over the years despite the challenges they faced.

“Wei Ying,” Lan Wangji said softly, breaking the silence. His voice was calm, but there was a note of concern that Wei Wuxian couldn’t ignore. “You seem troubled.”

Wei Wuxian forced a smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I’m fine, Lan Zhan,” he replied, his tone light but unconvincing. “Just… tired.”

Lan Wangji studied him for a moment, his gaze gentle but probing. He could sense that something was amiss, and his heart ached at the sight of Wei Wuxian’s uncharacteristic melancholy. “Is it because of what others are saying?” Lan Wangji asked quietly.

Wei Wuxian’s smile faltered, and he looked away, his shoulders slumping slightly. “It’s stupid, isn’t it?” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I shouldn’t care what they think. But… sometimes it’s hard not to.”

Lan Wangji’s expression softened, and he reached out, placing a comforting hand on Wei Wuxian’s shoulder. “Their words do not define you,” he said firmly, his touch gentle yet reassuring. “You are more than what they say.”