Die with me in paradise

love beyond lifetime

Chapter 1: Love Beyond Lifetime

The crimson rain sought flowers had bloomed once more, their delicate petals swaying gently in the breeze. Fire lanterns illuminated the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the bustling streets. Xie Lian gazed out his window, sensing a deep familiarity wash over him. It was Xinnian, Lunar New Year, and the air pulsed with joy and anticipation.

His wait had finally come to an end.

As he spotted Hua Cheng in the distance, Xie Lian's heart skipped a beat. His eyes locked onto the familiar figure, drinking in every detail. "My love has returned," he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.

Without hesitation, Xie Lian sprinted toward Hua Cheng, tears welling up in his eyes. His feet pounded the ground, every step echoing the longing in his heart. Hua Cheng swept him into his arms, holding him close.

"Gege, careful now," Hua Cheng whispered, his breath warm against Xie Lian's ear.

"I hope I didn't make you wait long," Hua Cheng added, his voice laced with a mix of apology and longing.

Xie Lian shook his head, burying his face in Hua Cheng's chest. "Every day felt like an eternity, Hua Cheng. I've counted every moment, every breath, until this instant."

Hua Cheng's expression turned somber, his eyes clouding with a deep sorrow. "Gege, I'm sorry. I used my core spirit and lost time. I came to say goodbye."

Xie Lian's eyes widened, shock and fear gripping his heart. "What do you mean? Are you sick?"

Hua Cheng's grip tightened, holding Xie Lian closer. "I've become mortal, Gege. My time is limited."

The words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of their implications. Xie Lian's world crumbled, tears streaming down his face as he processed the unbearable truth.

Hua Cheng guided Xie Lian to a nearby table, filled with steaming dishes and succulent delicacies. "Gege, please eat," he coaxed, his voice soft with concern.

Xie Lian took a bite, his eyes locking onto Hua Cheng's despairing gaze. The flavors danced on his tongue, but his heart remained numb.

"Take care of yourself when I'm gone," Hua Cheng whispered, his voice barely audible.

Xie Lian's anguish boiled over, his emotions raw and exposed. "No, Hua Cheng! I won't live without you. This curse...it's consuming everything. What did I do to deserve this?"

Hua Cheng's voice trembled, his eyes brimming with tears. "Hey, relax, Gege. I'm still here. My soul will always love you beyond life, beyond any lifetime. I'll worship and treasure you, even in death."

As Hua Cheng's words wrapped around his heart, Xie Lian felt his resolve crumble. He clung to Hua Cheng, cherishing every moment, every breath.

"I'll love you when I'm a mortal," Hua Cheng continued, his voice a gentle whisper. "I'll love you when I'm in the grave. My love for you knows no bounds, Gege."

In that instant, Xie Lian knew he would shatter into a million pieces if he lost Hua Cheng. Their love had transcended lifetimes, defying the very fabric of fate.