Covetous

Posted originally on the Archive of Our Own at http://archiveofourown.org/works/27556534.

Rating: Explicit
Archive Warning: Choose Not To Use Archive Warnings
Category: M/M
Fandom: 魔道祖师 - 墨香铜臭 | Módào Zǔshī - Mòxiāng Tóngxiù
Relationship: Lán Zhàn | Lán Wàngjī/Wèi Yīng | Wèi Wúxiàn, Jiāng Chéng | Jiāng
Wǎnyín/Wèi Yīng | Wèi Wúxiàn, Jiāng Chéng | Jiāng Wǎnyín & Lán
Zhàn | Lán Wàngjī, Implied Lán Huàn | Lán Xīchén/Jiāng Yànlí
Character: Lan Huan | Lan Xichen, Nie Huaisang, Jiang Fengmian, Jiang Yanli,
Lan Yuan | Lan Sizhui, Lan Zhan | Lan Wangji, Wei Ying | Wei Wuxian,
Jiang Cheng | Jiang Wanyin
Additional Tags: Dark Lán Zhàn | Lán Wàngjī, Manipulation, non-con elements, Dirty
Talk, Dubious Consent, Top Lán Zhàn | Lán Wàngjī/Bottom Wèi Yīng |
Wèi Wúxiàn, Mpreg, Jc deserves better, Implied/Referenced Underage
Sex (ChengXian), Emotional Infidelity
Series: Part 1 of What goes around comes around
Collections: Dark Lan Zhan Week, Mo dao zu shi. Фанфики
Stats: Published: 2020-11-14 Words: 14295

Covetous
by prettyxianxian

Summary

Lan Zhan was devastated. But never had he ever been more determined. How could Wei
Ying so playfully reveal the fact that he was to be married to Jiang Cheng when they are of
age? How dare Wei Ying casually break Lan Zhan’s heart like that? Only Lan Zhan had the
rights to break. Only he can break Wei Ying.

He wanted to destroy Jiang Wanyin. He wanted to show him that Lan Zhan would always
win at the end.

But there was a long way to go.

How was he supposed to break a decade-long engagement?

Notes

This is my contribution to Dark Lan Zhan week! Originally, this was supposed to be posted
for Day 6- Lan Zhan Wins prompt but I procrastinated, so Free Day it is.
Here are some things I would like to clarify regarding the tags-
1. This fic is set during the Gusu days, but their ages have been changed. Lan Zhan, Wei
Ying, Jiang Cheng are 17 when they meet in Gusu. Wangxian *do not* indulge in
penetrative sex until they are 18. Though ChengXian do, hence the tag.
 2. So what about canon? Maybe the Wens don't exist at all in this universe, who knows?
3. Wei Ying is a carrier, but this fic is non a/b/o and I have kept it vague.
4. Feminising language and words like 'slut'and 'whore' have been used, so read at your
own discretion!

Thanks to darkLZweek discord server and special thanks to my beta, my braincell twin,
Sally!

See the end of the work for more notes

Lan Zhan has always been covetous.

At the tender age of 6, he had eyed the guqin meant for Xiongzhang in Shufu’s hands. He looked at
the meticulously handcrafted xiao in front of him.

All he had to do was to hold Xiongzhang’s gaze and make him think that his didi was overridden
by the grief of their mother’s death.

Xiongzhang has always been kind.

_____

At 17, he laid his eyes upon the wild, unruly Jiang disciple. He was sharp-witted, unrestrained,
loquacious but above all, the boy was absolutely bewitching to look at.

And who was Lan Zhan to deny his own desires?

_____

Wei Ying. Wei Wuxian. He was Lan Zhan’s match in everything. They were meant to meet under
the moonlit sky. They were meant to cross paths in Gusu. They were meant to be together.

Until he saw Jiang Wanyin.

Lan Zhan had seen the snarky youth buzzing around Wei Ying all day. He never let Wei Ying out
of his sight. Lan Zhan had also noticed Jiang Wanyin catching him stare at Wei Ying during a
sparring session.

Jiang Wanyin was right across from him, on the other side of the crowd of disciples gathered to
watch Wei Ying spar with one of the senior Lan Disciples. He had seen Lan Zhan’s eyes taking
every bit of Wei Ying. He had seen Lan Zhan’s gaze pausing at Wei Ying’s plump, pink lips that
Wei Ying nibbled at during the lectures.

Jiang Wanyin had seen Lan Zhan realising that he was caught. He had seen the smirk on Lan
Zhan’s lips. He had understood that Lan Zhan did not care whether Wei Ying was meant for Jiang
Wanyin. He had realized that the illustrious Second Jade of Lan was greedy.

_____

It was extremely satisfying to spend the entire afternoon with Wei Ying in the Library Pavilion.
Here, Wei Ying was Lan Zhan’s and Lan Zhan was Wei Ying’s, whether the other one knew it or
not. They were away from the other lecherous eyes. Wei Ying was irresistible.
Here, Wei Ying’s attention was his. Wei Ying was his.

The other boy tried anything and everything to get his attention. Wei Ying loved his attention and
he wasn’t ashamed in going to lengths in trying to make Lan Zhan look at him at least once.

Lan Zhan loved Wei Ying’s pouts. He loved Wei Ying on his knees, sweet names rolling out of his
sweet little mouth. He loved when Wei Ying begged for one glance. Little did Wei Ying know that
Lan Zhan’s eyes were always on him. Little did Wei Ying know that while he behaved
coquettishly, Lan Zhan imagined claiming Wei Ying, right there in the library, against the very
table where Wei Ying’s fingers played with Lan Zhan’s calligraphy brush.

Little did Wei Ying know that he had Lan Zhan’s attention right from Day 1.

_____

He wanted to kill Jiang Wanyin.

The guts of the Jiang heir to keep Wei Ying for himself when Wei Ying was made to love other
people. He was meant to love Lan Zhan.

Jiang Wanyin’s attempts at keeping Wei Ying away from others were subtle. He lured Wei Ying
into a trip to Caiyi Town, a pheasant hunt, spicy dishes that he managed to prepare on his trips to
Caiyi. Wei Ying was always lured.

Wei Ying was too easy.

Wei Ying was oblivious.

But to Jiang Wanyin’s utter displeasure, Wei Ying always dragged Lan Zhan into their schemes. At
those moments, he never failed to let Jiang Wanyin know who owns Wei Ying.

Wei Ying loved to touch. He liked to take and take and take. Wei Ying liked to keep his hands
busy. They were always fiddling. Sometimes it was his hair, sometimes Suibian and sometimes
Lan Zhan’s sleeve. Wei Ying was hardly bothered about Lan Zhan’s icy exterior. He wanted to
make Lan Zhan react. He wanted Lan Zhan to break.

But if Lan Zhan breaks, Wei Ying will end up being pinned under him, taken, claimed, laid bare
for Lan Zhan and Lan Zhan only. Oh, how Wei Ying would mewl as Lan Zhan makes him take his
cock.

“Lan-er-gege! Look at me!”

Lan Zhan blinked and looked at Wei Ying’s pitiful pout.

“Your punishment is not over yet.”

“Lan Zhan? Do you want to get rid of me so soon? Why do you hurt me like this?” Wei Ying
spoke, sprawling all over the table.

“Wei Ying.”

“Mn…?” Wei Ying’s voice was muffled as he settled comfortably and dozed off.

“You wouldn’t be able to handle my attention, Wei Ying.”

_____
Lan Zhan was devastated. But never had he ever been more determined. How could Wei Ying so
playfully reveal the fact that he was to be married to Jiang Cheng when they are of age? How dare
Wei Ying casually break Lan Zhan’s heart like that? Only Lan Zhan had the rights to break. Only
he can break Wei Ying.

He wanted to destroy Jiang Wanyin. He wanted to show him that Lan Zhan would always win at
the end.

But there was a long way to go.

How was he supposed to break a decade-long engagement?

_____

Wei Ying picked up a fight with Jin Zixuan. He was so troublesome, Lan Zhan loved it. He loved
it more because Jiang Wanyin and Wei Ying got into a fight.

This was his chance.

This is how he was going to break them.

_____

“Wei Ying.”

The younger turned and glanced at him from the corner of his eyes.

“Hey, Lan Zhan.”

“It is close to curfew time.”

Wei Ying visibly sighed. Lan Zhan noticed his fingers fiddling with the Jiang Clarity Bell. He
wanted to rip it off Wei Ying. He wanted to erase all traces of Yunmeng Jiang off Wei Ying.

“Uhh...yes. Yes, I am leaving.”

He hurriedly stood up from the rock facing the waterfall and wiped his hands messily against his
robes.

“See you tomorrow Lan Zhan.”

Wei Ying tried to leave without making eye contact. But Lan Zhan needed it. He needed to make
Wei Ying look at him. He needed to hold his gaze to make Wei Ying submit.

Mother had always told him that his eyes were like his father’s. They could lure, they could
consume. He didn’t understand then.

But he understood now.

Before Wei Ying could escape, Lan Zhan got hold of his dainty wrist and pulled Wei Ying to a
stop.

“Lan Zhan?”

“Wei Ying is sad.”

“What? No!”

“Wei Ying.”

He looked. He saw. He captured.

“It’s just….it’s complicated Lan Zhan! You know how complex these sect things are!”

“Mn. Does Wei Ying want to talk about it?”

“Aiya Lan Zhan! Aren’t you being very talkative right now? It’s alright, you do not need to be
bothered by these worldly matters, Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying took his hand out of Lan Zhan’s grasp
and left.

That day, he realized two things-

Wei Ying was not going to be easy to break but Lan Zhan loved challenges.
That was the last time Wei Ying managed to get out of Lan Zhan’s grip.

_____

Lan Zhan’s efforts were slow but effective. Wei Ying was already fascinated by him, he knew that
much. All he had to do was appear wherever Wei Ying was. Library Pavilion, the Cold Pond, the
back mountains where he spends time with Jiang Wanyin and Nie Huaisang.

(He will remember to commission a fan for the latter for not letting Jiang Wanyin be alone with
Wei Ying, even if Nie Huaisang was not aware of his own actions.)

He was aware of Jiang Wanyin’s wrath. He was also aware of Jiang Wanyin’s increasing number
of touches. He touched Wei Ying all the time now as if he was staking his claim. Wei Ying let
him.

Oh, Wei Ying, there will be consequences.

_____

Wei Ying never gets drunk. But this time, he did. And this time, Lan Zhan happened to be there
with him.

Lan Zhan looked at the other disciples, passed out all over the dorm room. Jiang Wanyin was one
of them. This was his chance.

Lan Zhan picked Wei Ying up, bride style. Sober Wei Ying was a flirt. Drunk Wei Ying was a
minx.

“Oh, Lan Zhan! You are so strong.” Wei Ying muttered as he made himself comfortable in his
arms.

“Is Wei Ying okay?”

“I am more than okay, Lan Zhan!”

“Mn. Good.”

Wei Ying wrapped his arm around Lan Zhan’s neck for a better grip.

“Lan Zhan…”
“Mn?”

“Have you...have you ever liked someone?”

Lan Zhan kept walking towards Wei Ying’s room, tightening his grip on Wei Ying.

“Why do you ask?”

“Uhh! I asked you a question first.”

Lan Zhan kept silent.

“Hmph! Fine! I just asked because...because...what is it to love someone, Lan Zhan?”

Lan Zhan locked his eyes with Wei Ying’s, as he slid the door open with his foot.

“Love is power.”

Wei Ying kept looking at him as Lan Zhan gently laid him down on the bed.

“Love is delicate.”

Wei Ying held his gaze as Lan Zhan straightened himself.

“Love is all-consuming.”

“Woah, Lan Zhan! How many people have you loved?” He slurred.

“The Lans only love once, Wei Ying.”

He stared at Wei Ying who seemed to shiver. He could hardly handle Lan Zhan’s intensity now.
What would happen when Lan Zhan would make Wei Ying submit to him? When Lan Zhan was
all Wei Ying would be allowed to think about?

“Lan Zhan...you...you are so intense.” He sounded hazy.

Wei Ying pulled Lan Zhan down with him so that he could sit beside Wei Ying.

“Lan Zhan...you know Jiang Cheng and I...we are…to be married.”

It was as if Wei Ying loved stabbing him. As if he loved to see Lan Zhan suffer.

“Mn.” He replied, sounding rough.

“Last night, Jiang Cheng...and I….we had sex.”

Lan Zhan wanted to scream. He wanted to kill someone. He wanted to kill Jiang Wanyin. He had
tried to claim Wei Ying in Lan Zhan’s territory? Oh, Jiang Wanyin has a death wish for sure.

“It was not the first time though. But this time, it just didn’t feel right Lan Zhan.”

Obviously it didn’t. All of Wei Ying’s kisses belonged to Lan Zhan. All of Wei Ying belonged to
Lan Zhan.

“I don’t know why I am telling you this...but Lan Zhan, whatever you said...love being power,
delicate, all-consuming. I don’t feel it, Lan Zhan. I don’t feel like that with Jiang Cheng.”
Jiang Wanyin will never win against Lan Zhan.

“Today, he...he suggested that we should read about dual cultivation.”

Lan Zhan fisted his robes, thinking about Jiang Wanyin having Wei Ying all for himself. No.
Never.

“He loves planning. He loves organizing his life like that. He told me that we would be married as
soon as we are of age and...and that I...will be required to give him an heir as soon as possible.”

Lan Zhan stopped breathing.

Wei Ying was a carrier?

His Wei Ying, his beautiful Wei Ying could grow life in him? Could Wei Ying be more perfect?

“I understand his duty, Lan Zhan. I understand my place too. But, it’s just that...I need something
more. I don’t think he loves me anymore Lan Zhan. I think he is marrying me only for Yunmeng.”

Oh Jiang Wanyin loved him alright. He loved Wei Ying too much, just like Lan Zhan. He could
see through Jiang Wanyin as easily as the other could read Lan Zhan. He has seen how delicately
the Jiang heir behaves with Wei Ying. He has seen the fear of losing Wei Ying. He has seen the
adoring gaze whenever Wei Ying comes up with ridiculous pranks.

He knows Jiang Wanyin is softer than he looks. He loves Wei Ying as a kind lover would.

But Wei Ying needed more. He needed someone to tame him, to claim him. He wanted to be
controlled. Lan Zhan could give him that.

“I can’t say no, Lan Zhan. Yu-furen would whip me to death. Jiang shushu has already convinced
the Jiang elders to let Jiang Cheng marry me, an orphan. It’s too late.”

It’s never too late. The Jiangs have no idea what’s coming for them.

Wei Ying buried his face into his pillow, curling himself into a ball, looking timid. He looked
ethereal.

Lan Zhan took in his sleepy figure. Wei Ying looked vulnerable. His hair splayed across the bed,
his clothes rumpled. Oh, how Lan Zhan would like to mess him up.

And Wei Ying was a carrier.

The thought elated him to no extent. Lan Zhan could already imagine Wei Ying round with a life
growing inside him. He could imagine a baby in his Wei Ying’s arms. He could imagine a baby
that looked like a mix of the two of them. He could imagine breeding Wei Ying all the time and
making him give birth to little Lans.

He was hard.

Sneaking a glance at a sleeping Wei Ying, Lan Zhan felt bold enough to sneak a hand into his
robes and pull out his cock.

He leaned against the wall and looked at Wei Ying, trying to imagine the younger with his velvety
soft skin lying pliant under his body. His long eyelashes, pouty pink lips ready to be bitten red.

‘Lan Zhan...fuck me.’

He tightened the grip on the tip, teasing himself as Wei Ying would.

'Wei Ying...mine.'

'Yes! Yes, I am yours! Fuck me Lan Zhan!!'

'Mn, I am fucking you Wei Ying.'

'Fuck me harder then! Come in me Lan-er-gege!!'

Lan Zhan’s fist moved up and down around his cock rapidly as he imagined filling Wei Ying with
come and Wei Ying’s fucked out expression. He would look ravishing with his hair stuck to his
sweaty forehead, his arms tied above his head, his slim legs on Lan Zhan’s shoulders.

He came.

_____

“Lan Wangji.”

Lan Zhan looked up from his scroll and looked at a distressed Jiang Wanyin before him.

He refused to waste words over him.

“Aren’t you too arrogant, Lan-er-gongzi?”

He must not give Jiang Wanyin an opportunity to look down at him.

Slowly, Lan Wangji got up from his seat and adjusted his sleeves, ignoring Jiang Wanyin’s
presence.

“Wei Wuxian is oblivious, I am not.” Jian Wanyin stated.

“Indeed.”

“I see your eyes wandering, Lan Wangji. You of all people should know to not eye the possessions
of others.”

“Wei Ying is not yours.”

“He’s to marry me!”

“You are not married yet. Engagements break all the time. Like your sister’s.”

If Jiang Wanyin looked angry before, he looked absolutely murderous now.

“Lan Wangji, are you really that bold? You are ready to interfere in a decade-old sect
arrangement? I am sure your Shufu doesn’t approve.”

“Shufu doesn’t. But I will make him.”

“Lan-“

“As I will make Wei Ying mine, right in front of you.”

“Lan Wangji!”
“You will watch Wei Ying bearing my child. You will watch us getting married. You will watch
while I make him mine.” Lan Zhan asserted and watched Jiang Wanyin’s temper rising.

“Watch yourself Lan Wangji! Are you trying to declare a war?!”

“If it is a war that will make Wei Ying mine, might as well declare it.”

“You deceiving bastard! Wei Wuxian thinks you are innocent while you are here threatening his
fiancé! You don’t deserve him.”

“You think you do? Jiang Wanyin, didn’t Wei Ying tell you that he has finally met his equal, in
Gusu? I hope you are aware that you will always be beneath Wei Ying.”

“Lan Wangji, I think you underestimate Wei Wuxian’s sense of duty. He will never ditch
Yunmeng for the likes of you.”

Lan Zhan couldn’t help but think that Jiang Wanyin spoke too arrogantly for someone who is
going to be dumped soon.

“Jiang Wanyin, I can only tell you to not underestimate me. Wei Ying will be mine and you have
no choice in that matter.”

Having said that, Lan Zhan turned around.

“Wei Wuxian will be shocked if I tell him how manipulative and sick his dear Lan Zhan is.”

“Jiang Wanyin, no one would ever believe you.” Lan Zhan said, looking at the other boy over his
shoulder.

_____

Lan Zhan’s words did miracles as he watched Jiang Wanyin lose himself to training and
cultivation. He wanted to match up to Wei Ying. Good for Yunmeng Jiang but bad for Wei Ying
who felt abandoned.

It bothered Lan Zhan that Wei Ying still looked forward to spending time with Jiang Cheng. Being
betrothed since childhood meant that they grew up together thinking that their lives would be
intertwined forever. However, Yunmeng Jiang heavily underestimated the role of Lan Zhan in Wei
Ying’s life.

Wei Ying loved the attention and Lan Zhan loved to give him attention. Whatever Wei Ying
wanted, Lan Zhan gave.

Emperor's Smile? Lan Zhan would buy it for him so that Wei Ying can enjoy it in Caiyi.
Loquats? Already bought before Wei Ying asked.
Spicy dishes? Prepared for Wei Ying by the best cook at the best inn in Caiyi.

Lan Zhan and Wei Ying were stuck to the hip. Sparring, studying, spending time with the rabbits
that Wei Ying gave him, going on supervised night hunts. He witnessed Wei Ying slowly come to
a realisation that he could have this. He could have everything with Lan Zhan.

“Lan Zhan.”

“Mn.”

“Thank you.”
“No need for 'thank you' between the two of us.”

“No. No, thank you, Lan Zhan. I have to thank you and you have to accept it.” Wei Ying said
stubbornly as he placed his chin on Lan Zhan’s shoulder.

“Alright.”

“You won’t ask me why?”

“Wei Ying can tell me if he wishes to.” Lan Zhan watched Wei Ying’s features softening at that.

“Lan Zhan...you are just so good. You make me feel...feel equal. You make me feel like I actually
deserve lov- *ahem*..attention. You know what I like and you make sure I get it. I don’t deserve
all that. I don’t deserve your time Lan Zhan.” Wei Ying slowly moved away and Lan Zhan wanted
to destroy the people who made Wei Ying have such a low opinion of himself.

“Wei Ying deserves the best. I don’t understand why Wei Ying believes otherwise.” Lan Zhan
spoke with conviction and saw Wei Ying crumbling. He knew he was breaking Wei Ying enough.
Not too much, not too little. Just breaking Wei Ying enough so that he realizes how poorly the
Jiangs treat him. Breaking him enough to make him break his betrothal with Jiang Wanyin.

“Lan Zhan! You cannot say such things so nonchalantly! And you call me shameless?” Wei Ying
exclaimed melodramatically, just like he does every time someone praised him for anything other
than his talents.

“Mn. Perhaps being in Wei Ying’s company has made me so.” Lan Zhan replied and was gifted
with a dramatic gasp. But Wei Ying did not say anything for a few moments.

“Lan Zhan, why are you so good to me? It saddens me that I won’t get to enjoy this,” Wei Ying
gestured to the space between the two of them “when I return to Yunmeng next month.”

Oh but Wei Ying won’t be going to Yunmeng. Not alone. Definitely not with Jiang Wanyin.

“Is Wei Ying so eager to go back?” Lan Zhan dared to ask. One month remained for Wei Ying’s
trip back to Yunmeng. Lan Zhan must move faster.

“Of course! There’s Shijie! Her lotus root and pork rib soup!”

Right. Lan Zhan might have underestimated the level of importance that Jiang Yanli held in Wei
Ying’s life. Something had to be done about that.

_____

“Wangji, what?!” Xiongzhang uncharacteristically exclaimed.

“Surely xiongzhang, you are aware that is an overreaction.” Lan Zhan replied as he took a sip of
his tea.

“Wangji, I hope that you are aware how...how frankly excessive this is.”

“I recall shufu mentioning the need for an heir.”

He ignored the look of betrayal in Lan Xichen’s eyes.

“Wangji, this is an extremely delicate matter. The Jiangs will not take this well.”
“Xiongzhang, how strong is Yunmeng to afford to go against Gusu Lan? We have the backing of
the Nies.”

“Wangji, are you saying that we will have to go to war for this?!” Xiongzhang had a flair for the
dramatics, he never knew.

“If need be.”

Silence prevailed as xiongzhang gripped the teacup tightly.

“Alright. I suppose Jiang guniang would be a good match for myself.”

“Mn. Wei Ying speaks very highly of his shijie.” The mention of Wei Ying’s name made his
brother look at him.

“You love him, don’t you?”

“More than anything else.”

_____

Nie Huaisang proved to be very useful. Very much like Jiang Wanyin, the younger Nie was
perceptive enough to catch Lan Zhan looking at Wei Ying. However, unlike Jiang Wanyin, Nie
Huaisang did not dissuade Lan Zhan.

In fact, he helped him further.

“Wei-xiong, aren’t Jiang-xiong and you betrothed? It seems like he is much too similar to Jin-
gongzi. Why does he not spend time with us nowadays? And with you?” Lan Zhan heard Nie
Huaisang ask. They were walking to the back mountains where the waterfalls were located for the
lantern festival.

Jiang Wanyin was talking to xiongzhang. Rather, xiongzhang asked Jiang Wanyin to walk with
him.

“Nie-xiong, you surely love to gossip, huh?” Wei Ying laughed it off awkwardly.

“Wei-xiong, I am but a romantic. I know love and passion when I see them. Between you two, not
really.” Nie Huaisang was too honest. Wei Ying’s heart was breaking, Lan Zhan could feel it. It
was necessary though. Lan Zhan is going to help heal it anyway.

“Nie-xiong, arranged marriages exist for a reason. It is my duty.” Wei Ying’s resolve sounded too
weak though.

“Wei-xiong, surely you are not that blind or deaf. Also, we hear rumours too. Everyone is aware of
how Yu-furen treats Yunmeng Jiang’s head disciple. Don’t you think you should live with
someone who would actually see you as an equal and respect you?” Lan Zhan’s back could feel
two stares.

Nie Huaisang was trying to suggest Wei Ying that Lan Zhan would be that someone for him.

While Wei Ying knew Lan Zhan is that someone for him.

_____

He could almost hear the wheels in Wei Ying’s head turn as everyone painted their lamps. Lan
Zhan chose to write a short poem on soulmates that he read the other day while Wei Ying looked
lost.

“Wei Wuxian! What are you thinking about?” Jiang Wanyin asked.

“Huh? Nothing nothing! I just want to make this lantern look perfect Jiang Cheng!”

“It’s just a lantern! What’s so special about it?”

“Jiang Cheng! Why are you so boring? This is supposed to be fun! It is a festival! Also, don’t you
think sending a lantern to the sky with something written or drawn on it as a message is quite
beautiful?”

“Wei Wuxian, you are too silly. It’s just a silly lantern that you are going to end up having to let go
anyway. Spending too much time with Nie Huaisang is making you lose your mind.” Jiang Wanyin
scoffed and fiddled with his own lantern. It was almost blank, with just a poorly drawn nine-
petaled lotus. He saw Wei Ying sneak a look at Jiang Wanyin’s lantern. He saw Wei Ying’s
shoulders droop.

Ah Jiang Wanyin, digging your own hole. Might as well jump into it.

Time passed and eventually, it was time for them to let go of their lanterns and make a wish. Lan
Zhan observed Jiang Cheng lighting the lantern with disinterest and letting it go and Wei Ying
fidgeting with his until he caught Lan Zhan’s eye.

“Lan Zhan! You want to see what I made?” He skipped towards Lan Zhan and turned the lantern
towards him.

“Cute, isn’t it? Just like you!”

Wei Ying, oh Wei Ying. It is almost like he was screaming how much he loves Lan Zhan.

On the lantern was a beautiful sketch of two rabbits, one white and one dark. The white one had a
forehead ribbon around one of his ears while the other one had a red one. Wei Ying was quite
obvious. How can someone be so obvious and oblivious at the same time? Only his Wei Ying.

And Lan Zhan could not help but break into a small smile. A smile big enough for Wei Ying to
trip and almost fall. Luckily, Wei Ying always had Lan Zhan.

“Ah, Lan Zhan! You should be careful with those smiles! Those are life-threatening! You almost
killed me.” Wei Ying laughed awkwardly as he tried to hide his red cheeks.

Just a smile and Wei Ying was like this? What would happen when Lan Zhan would hold him
close, kiss him, fuck him?

“Wei Ying does not like my smile?” If Lan Zhan looked a little pouty, no one called him out for
that.

“Lan Zhan….I am afraid I love it too much.”

_____

Another day, another instance of Jiang Wanyin too busy for Wei Ying. Is this how he planned to
‘claim’ Wei Ying? Big words for someone who still calls his ‘betrothed’ by his courtesy name. It
was clear that he himself did not view Wei Ying close enough to call him by his birth name.
Wei Ying had finished his sword practice and was whiling away with Nie Huaisang. Like every
time, there were within hearing distance. Anyway, those two were too loud for people who were
speaking about sensitive issues.

“Wow, Wei-xiong, Lotus Pier indeed looks like a place I must visit!”

“Wait! I did not draw the part that I love the most! This is the deck Jiang Cheng and I used to jump
from! We even have our names carved there haha!”

Lan Zhan did not like the tone of yearning in Wei Ying’s voice.

“Oh? I cannot imagine Jiang-xiong being playful enough though. He looks quite tough and
unbothered by things like these. Wei-xiong, did you leave the ‘your’ Jiang Cheng back in Lotus
Pier and bring a 50-year-old Jiang Cheng instead? Haha!”

Nie Huaisang was good with words. Hurtful but helpful.

“I suppose Jiang Cheng feels too responsible for frivolous things like this.” Wei Ying sounded sad.

“Wei-xiong, it could be that he was reminded of his duties as a future Sect Leader...you know? He
is surrounded by other clan heirs here after all.”

“Hmm…”

“Anyway! Tell me what are these pavilions for? Where do you live?”

“So this is where Shijie lives, closer to Yu-furen’s quarters. And this is-“

“Wait wait! Yu-furen’s quarters? Don’t Jiang zongzhu and Yu-furen stay together?”

It was a highly inappropriate question. Nie Huaisang should know better. But when did propriety
ever stop the younger Nie?

“Nie-xiong! Surely you cannot be asking me that!”

“I suppose I know the answers already, you are right. It is unfortunate. And very unfair to you,
Jiang-xiong and Jiang-guniang. It must be difficult to live with parents that do not agree with each
other.”

“It is not-”

“Wei-xiong, will you adopt children? When you get married that is.”

“I...I am a carrier actually.”

“Woah Wei-xiong! You truly are gifted!”

“Shhh! Don’t be so loud!”

Nie Huaisang...would he just get to the point?

“This is so cool Wei-xiong! I hope Jiang-xiong realises how lucky he is! I hope he appreciates your
gift and makes sure that your children don’t grow up in an environment as you did.”

There.
That did it.

That made Wei Ying speechless.

For a while, no one spoke. Lan Zhan decided that it was time to whisk Wei Ying away, to help
lessen his hurt.

Not before he sneakily placed a newly commissioned fan in front of Nie Huaisang who gave him
an approving smile as Wei Ying got distracted by Lan Zhan’s presence.

_____

Lan Zhan and Wei Ying spent the day with juniors. Lan Zhan knew Wei Ying had parental
instincts but when he actually saw it, he couldn’t help but feel fonder. Wei Ying would be the best
mother to their children.

“Lan Zhan, watching you help the little Lans wield their wooden swords is really too dangerous for
my poor heart.” Wei Ying said when they led the children to their next class.

“Wei Ying is adorable when he spends time with children too.”

“Lan Zhan!!! That’s- that’s...don’t be so bold Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying stuttered. For someone who is
known to be flirty, Wei Ying gets flustered too easily.

“Mn. I will try. Wei Ying, what will you be doing now?”

Wei Ying hummed as he began to think when they were rudely interrupted.

“Wei Wuxian! I have been looking for you for hours! Where have you been?!” Jiang Wanyin held
Wei Ying’s arm a bit too forcefully. When Jiang Wanyin turned towards Lan Zhan, he became
angrier.

“Lan-er-gongzi! Isn’t it too shameless to whisk away my fiancé any time of the day?” He asked
menacingly.

“Jiang Cheng! What are you insinuating?!” Wei Ying struggled in Jiang Wanyin’s grip but the
latter did not seem to care. He stood between Lan Zhan and Wei Ying as if staking his claim. Too
late for that. Wei Ying was already his in all but name.

“Jiang gongzi, I would advise you to be careful with your words. Clearly, they are hurting Wei
Ying.” Lan Zhan spoke coolly.

“Lan-er-gongzi, whatever I say to ‘Wei Ying’ does not concern you. He is with the Jiangs and he is
my betrothed. An outsider like you does not need to interfere-”

“Jiang Wanyin! Apologize to Lan Zhan right away!” Wei Ying pulled Jiang Wanyin to face him
and shook his shoulders.

“Wei-”

“Yu-furen would kill you if she got to know you messed with a Lan! Of course, Lan Zhan would
never let anyone know, but you must control your temper! And Lan Zhan is my friend! What the
hell is wrong with you?” Wei Ying whisper-yelled.

Friend.
After all these months, Lan Zhan is but a friend.

Lan Zhan could not help but grip Bichen tightly. He was angry, frustrated, helpless. Does he have
to make Wei Ying his now?

“Wei Wu-”

“I shall take my leave. I apologize if my words offended the Yunmeng Jiang sect in any way.” Lan
Zhan bowed and looked at Wei Ying through his eyelashes to see guilt and sadness pouring from
his eyes.

Good. Lan Zhan knew how to twist situations to suit him. Jiang Wanyin was a good enabler.

Without giving Wei Ying a chance to speak, Lan Zhan left. He knew Wei Ying would come back
to him, eventually.

_____

Two days later, it happened. He got to know from Nie Huaisang that Jiang Wanyin refused to leave
Wei Ying out of his sight. As if that ever stopped Wei Ying. After classes, Lan Zhan was grabbed
by Wei Ying and pulled towards the back mountain paths.

“Wei Ying!”

“Lan Zhan! Wait!” He continued dragging Lan Zhan until they reached their destination, panting.

“Wei Ying.”

“I, uh! I know you deserve an explanation!”

“Mn.” Lan Zhan straightened his clothes while Wei Ying tightened his hair ribbon. The two of
them looked extremely dishevelled. Maybe, in the near future, such a state could be attributed to
something else entirely.

“Jiang Cheng’s being an asshole! He was so rude to you Lan Zhan! I apologise on his behalf.” Wei
Ying bowed deeply.

“Wei Ying does not need to apologize for Jiang gongzi’s behaviour. You do not need to feel
responsible for his actions.” He replied, holding Wei Ying by his elbows.

“Lan Zhan...he..he has changed. He is not the Jiang Cheng that I...that I loved. I always knew he
was a bit aggressive but he never spoke this venomously about someone. Especially someone like
you.” Wei Ying sat by a tree, making Lan Zhan follow him.

“It is not acceptable to be so aggressive to you either. Wei Ying...does he force himself upon you?”
Lan Zhan knew the answer already.

“No! No, he is not vile like that Lan Zhan! In fact, he is quite the opposite. He is
very...affectionate.” Wei Ying smiled sadly.

No. Wei Ying cannot be thinking about being under Jiang Wanyin while Lan Zhan was still
around.

“Wei Ying, were you forced into this arrangement?” Lan Zhan asked, moving closer subtly.

“Hmm? No. I mean, I don’t know. I don’t think it was a choice. Yu-furen told me that I was to
marry Jiang Cheng and that was it.” Wei Ying had a habit of picking at his nails during moments
like these. His beautiful long fingers and equally beautiful nails.

“Wei Ying should not do something he is not willing to. I have always thought of Wei Ying as
free-spirited.” Lan Zhan said, feeling bold enough to place his hand under Wei Ying’s chin and
making him look into his eyes.

“Lan Zhan….” Wei Ying looked at him as if searching for answers. Answers that he already
knows.

“Wei Ying should not let anyone clip his wings.”

Feeling more shameless, Lan Zhan lifted his thumb to graze the corner of Wei Ying’s lips.

“If it were me, I would give Wei Ying all the freedom he wants, as long as he would agree to be
mine.”

There. He said it.

Wei Ying’s eyes became as wide as saucers as he gaped at him.

“La-Lan Zhan!”

“Mn.”

“You possibly can’t be saying-“

“I said what I said, Wei Ying.” Lan Zhan patted his cheek, slowly letting Wei Ying go.

“It is time for dinner. We must head back.”

Wei Ying stood up, still dazed. As confident as Lan Zhan usually was, even he couldn’t help but
feel like he might have overstepped.

_____

Next day, Wei Ying appeared quieter and pensive. Even when they were assigned to write a report
on a recent night hunt, Wei Ying was not as talkative as he usually was. Even the novelty of being
in Jingshi, Lan Zhan’s residence, did not make Wei Ying talk.

After an hour of diligently working, Wei Ying gave up and slumped over the scrolls.

“Lan Zhan.”

Lan Zhan looked up as Wei Ying looked hesitant.

“Wei Ying?”

“Ah, nothing nothing!” He fumbled and got back to his work, or at least pretended like he did.

“Wei Ying.”

“Fine! I wanted to ask you something but it feels way too inappropriate now.” Wei Ying looked
absolutely enticing as he pouted and eventually covered his face.

“You may ask.”

“Are you sure Lan Zhan? You won’t throw me out, right?” Wei Ying asked, scooting closer.

“Never.”

Expecting a sarcastic answer, Wei Ying looked shocked when he received the opposite of that.

“Ah, Lan Zhan! You humour me too much. Anyway, I wanted to ask if I could stay here. You
know, for today. Just today.”

Was Wei Ying that eager to let Lan Zhan bed him? Who was he to say no to that?

“I mean! It’s because Jiang Cheng looked forward to...you know? And frankly, I don’t want to.
And I don’t think that I will be able to say no to him. So like a coward, I want to hide.” Wei Ying
let out a self-deprecating laugh.

Rather bold of Jiang Wanyin to still think he can fuck Wei Ying.

“Alright. You can take the bed.”

Oh, how Lan Zhan wished to see Wei Ying splayed out in his bed, hair spread out, wrists tied by
the same forehead ribbon that Wei Ying was always curious about, back arched, legs spread apart
so that Lan Zhan can thrust into that warm heat. Oh, how he wished.

“No! I can’t do that! Lan Zhan, I can just sleep on the floor. Or right here.” He spoke as if Lan
Zhan would let Wei Ying be treated like the Jiangs treated him.

“The bed is big enough to fit two.”

Wei Ying choked as he heard Lan Zhan’s words. He was sure his ears were bright red, giving away
his own thoughts about Wei Ying.

But Wei Ying didn’t deny.

_____

Wei Ying, being too immersed in work, had passed out on the table itself. His position looked too
painful for Lan Zhan. As it was close to 9 PM, Lan Zhan felt sleepy himself and decided to call it a
day.

But before he prepared himself for bed, he took some time to admire Wei Ying. A gentle breeze
made a strand of Wei Ying’s hair sway, ending up brushing his nose. Slightly annoyed, Wei Ying
scrunched his nose but made no effort to move it away. Who can blame Lan Zhan if Wei Ying
looked like he wanted Lan Zhan to touch him? Lan Zhan succumbed to his desires and tucked the
unruly strand behind Wei Ying’s perfect ear. He did not stop at that though and traced Wei Ying’s
earlobe, making Wei Ying shiver.

Mn, a weak spot. Would prove useful later.

A few incense sticks later, Lan Zhan slowly picked up Wei Ying in his arms and placed him on his
bed gently. He loosened the hair ribbon carefully, Wei Ying’s silky hair spread over the pillow.
Wei Ying was quite pliant when asleep.

Before he lost his control and ended up taking Wei Ying in his sleep, he decided to finish his
nightly duties and join Wei Ying in his bed.

_____
At 5 AM sharp, Lan Zhan opened his eyes. Suddenly, he felt too aware. Too aware of a warm body
pressed against his, a leg was thrown over his thigh, brushing against his cock through the fabric.

Lan Zhan did not think this through. But he wasn’t complaining either.

Slowly, he turned his head to his left and looked at Wei Ying, sleeping blissfully, not even aware
of the fact that he was basically lighting Lan Zhan’s body on fire. When Lan Zhan attempted to
move, Wei Ying snuggled into him further and pressed his face into lan Zhan’s neck.

“Lan Zhan, how can you tease poor, little me like this?” He purred sleepily.

Fuck.

Is Wei Ying dreaming of Lan Zhan?

Lan Zhan licked his lips. Maybe, just maybe, he could take advantage of the fact….

Gently turning towards Wei Ying, Lan Zhan made them lie facing each other, legs still entangled
and Wei Ying’s arm around Lan Zhan. This way, Wei Ying’s head was pressed into his chest and
Lan Zhan could only hope that he would not be awakened by the intensity with which Lan Zhan’s
heart was beating.

Moving his chest away from Wei Ying’s face, he placed his fingers on Wei Ying’s hip, checking
for any sign of awareness on Wei Ying’s face. There was none. Instead, there was a blissed-out
face. Good.

Slow and steady, his hand crept up towards Wei Ying’s thigh and eventually his cock, which was
unsurprisingly, hard. Wei Ying moaned in his sleep and quite frankly, Lan Zhan could have gotten
off at that itself, had he not exercised control over his body all these years. Lan Zhan focused on
his task and traced Wei Ying’s cock over the fabric and heard Wei Ying’s gasp.

“Lan Zhan! You fucked me and made me come twice ready….how much will you torture your
Wei Ying?” He murmured as he thrust up to Lan Zhan’s hand.

Wei Ying was such a slut. Acting coy while egging Lan Zhan on to fuck him again. Lan Zhan
didn’t mind that though. As long as Wei Ying remained his slut.

“Nnnngh, that feels so good…” Wei Ying whispered as Lan Zhan cupped his cock and squeezed it.
If Wei Ying was this affected even with layers of clothes between his arousal and Lan Zhan’s hand,
he cannot even imagine how wrecked Wei Ying would be, if he was naked.

Lan Zhan pressed their hips against each other, giving slow thrusts against Wei Ying, making sure
he did nothing that could jerk the other awake.

“Fuck! Yes!” Wei Ying moaned as he gripped Lan Zhan’s arm harder and wrapped his leg around
Lan’s waist. Lan Zhan wished he could peek into Wei Ying’s dream, he wished he could see how
Wei Ying viewed Lan Zhan in his dream. It was truly remarkable that Wei Ying was still
dreaming. Still oblivious. Giving his Lan Zhan so many ideas for their future.

It was easy to make Wei Ying come. It happened within minutes as Lan Zhan increased the pace of
his thrusts while Wei Ying let out gasps and moans enough for Lan Zhan to come along with Wei
Ying. Feeling the dampness through Wei Ying’s inner robe, Lan Zhan raised it towards his own
face and inhaled the faint essence of Wei Ying. If it was up to Lan Zhan, they would never get up
from the bed; Wei Ying would never wake up from his dream and Lan Zhan could do whatever he
wanted.
But it was nearing 5:30 and Lan Zhan had to move before Wei Ying became aware. Before he
became aware of the morality or the lack of it. Lan Zhan had just made Wei Ying come while the
latter dreamt of the two of them while having a fiancé. Did it mean that Wei Ying cheated on Jiang
Wanyin with Lan Zhan? Did it mean that Lan Zhan was cuckolding Jiang Wanyin right under his
nose?

Lan Zhan would be lying if he didn’t feel smug about it.

_____

Around 7, Wei Ying woke up, stretching like a graceful feline. His robe slipped from his shoulder
and Lan Zhan took in as much as he could. This would soon be a sight for every day.

“Fuck!”

Lan Zhan raised his eyebrow as he looked up from the book he was reading.

“Good morning, Wei Ying.”

“Fuck!!”

“That’s not very kind of you.” Lan Zhan replied dryly.

“Fuck! I just- I just couldn’t figure out where I was, for a minute.” Wei Ying gathered the blanket
over his hips as if Lan Zhan wasn’t the one who made him come. Wei Ying bit his lip and snuck a
glance at him, looking away the moment he saw Lan Zhan’s gaze on him.

“I should leave!” He squeaked as he hurriedly gathered his hair and secured it with his ribbon.

“Calm down. We don’t have class today.” Lan Zhan said, placing his book down and looking at
Wei Ying properly, who just couldn’t make eye contact with him. Lan Zhan found it hard to
believe that this was the same Wei Ying who was moaning like a harlot in his arms a few hours
ago. Wei Ying’s duality truly shocked him as much as it aroused him.

“Yeah, yeah I know! But Jiang Cheng would be awake and he would...look for me.” Wei Ying
looked guilty. Lan Zhan wondered why. Did Wei Ying realise whom he was dreaming about? Did
he regret it?

“Lan Zhan, thank you for being such a generous host!” Wei Ying flashed a bright smile at him and
scurried away, hiding his flushed cheeks.

Oh, Wei Ying.

_____

It was easier after that. Xiongzhang or shufu kept giving them tasks that would make them spend
more time together at the Jingshi. Wei Ying, although a bit shy, looked more comfortable in Lan
Zhan’s presence. It was like an escape from awkward interactions with Jiang Wanyin and Lan
Zhan was all too glad to accommodate Wei Ying.

Lan Zhan noticed the tension between Jiang Wanyin and Wei Ying. He overheard frequent
shouting and yelling from the dorms. The other guest disciples knew to stay away from these two.
Everyone witnessed their relationship turning bitter.

“Wei Ying, this is affecting you a lot.” Lan Zhan spoke softly as he caressed Wei Ying’s
cheekbone. Wei Ying did not sleep well.

“Lan Zhan, I am tired. I am so tired of constantly fighting with him.” Wei Ying melted into his
touch and subconsciously inched closer to Lan Zhan.

“Lan Zhan, this only goes to show how disastrous our marriage is going to be. He doesn’t trust me.
He is making a mountain out of a molehill.” Wei Ying looked so sad. But Lan Zhan knew it was
partly Wei Ying’s fault. It is not proper for Wei Ying to seek the company of a man while already
being engaged to another. But he would not call Wei Ying out on that.

“It is unfortunate that Wei Ying has to deal with Jiang Wanyin’s delusions.” Lan Zhan spoke
sincerely, making Wei Ying giggle.

“What if we have children Lan Zhan? They will hate the two of us. I have witnessed what Yu-
furen’s temper did to all of us. I don’t want my children to suffer Lan Zhan. I can’t make them go
through that. Jiang Cheng is too concerned about Lotus Pier and its reputation. What if...what if
that’s all he cares about?” A tear slid down Wei Ying’s cheek and landed on the pillow.

“Wei Ying. You know it. You know the solution already.” Wiping his tears away, Lan Zhan
placed his hand on Wei Ying’s cheek.

“Lan Zhan, doing that will only end in me getting kicked out of the Jiang Clan and Yu-furen would
make sure I am not seen anywhere near Yunmeng.”

“Wei Ying will always have a place in Cloud Recesses.” Lan Zhan tucked Wei Ying’s hair behind
his ear, enjoying the momentary peace on Wei Ying’s face.

“Really, Lan Zhan? Do you mean it?” Wei Ying looked so innocent and naïve. Of course, he was
meant to be protected.

“Yes. Wei Ying is talented, kind and hardworking. Gusu Lan appreciates the contributions you
have made during your stay.”

Something about what he said set Wei Ying off because he was laughing. Genuinely laughing,
with tears in his eyes.

“Lan Zhan, you fuddy-duddy! Speaking so formally! Anyway Lan Zhan. Just a small shed would
do, you know. I know how to make myself scarce.” Wei Ying’s words ended on a sadder note than
he began with.

“Wei Ying can stay with me if he likes.” Lan Zhan murmured intentionally, knowing that Wei
Ying was weak when it came to a puppy-face Lan Zhan.

“How scandalous, Lan-er-gongzi! Have you any idea about what people will say?” Wei Ying
gasped dramatically. Lan Zhan almost rolled his eyes and made Wei Ying laugh.

_____

“Jiang zongzhu will be arriving today.” Xiongzhang informed him as they supervised the junior
Lans as they played the guqin.

“Mn. Thank you, xiongzhang.” He was given a smile by his elder brother.

“I was surprised when Jiang zongzhu replied affirmatively. I guess the broken marriage alliance
with the Jins affected them more than we think.”
“Xiongzhang, do not worry. I think this arrangement works for everyone involved. Gusu and
Yunmeng don’t have an intimate relationship. This will change that.”

“Mn. I assume that the Jiangs won’t be happy with Wei gongzi and you.”

“Mn. Naturally. But they do not have a choice, xiongzhang.”

_____

Classes were coming to an end as the guest disciples were to leave soon. Shufu and xiongzhang
were preparing for a meeting with Jiang zongzhu to talk about a marriage alliance between
xiongzhang and Jiang Guniang. No, Lan Zhan didn’t need help in arranging his marriage to Wei
Ying. Things will happen on their own. Jiang Wanyin will practically drop Wei Ying in Lan
Zhan’s lap.

Lan Zhan looked at his room, now occupied by some of Wei Ying’s things. His calligraphy
brushes, new talismans, an extra set of robes. Soon Wei Ying will move into him and then, no one
can split them apart.

Lan Zhan went to the chest where Wei Ying kept his things. He picked up the robes and set to
work.

_____

“Lan Zhan! I spilt ink on my robe again!” Wei Ying whined.

“Wei Ying is too clumsy.” Lan Zhan commented as if he wasn’t the one to place the ink beside
Wei Ying’s elbow.

“Aiyah! I must change. Say, Lan Zhan, I will go get those new talismans I made? You wanted to
see them right?”

“Mn. Change first.” Lan Zhan said, taking his robes out and handing it to Wei Ying.

“Ever so helpful, Lan-er-gege!” Wei Ying beamed and skipped to the inner parts of the Jingshi to
change and get himself cleaned.

_____

Lan Wangji walked by the dormitories a few minutes later after Wei Ying left for his room when
he heard loud voices.

“Where have you been all these nights?” He noticed fellow guest disciples trickling out of the
dormitories awkwardly.

“Jiang Cheng, what is it? Are you here to fight again? Aren’t you tired?”

“Aren’t you tired of constantly running off to be with your Lan Zhan? Do you even remember that
you are supposed to be the future Jiang Sect Leader’s wife? Isn’t it too shameful for Yunmeng if
you keep company with another man?”

Mn, good job digging your own grave, Jiang Wanyin.

Silence prevailed.

“If you wanted to be with him so much, you could have just told me, Wei Wuxian!” He heard
something crash against the floor.

“Jiang Wanyin! What the fuck are you always on about?”

It shocked Lan Zhan that Wei Ying was still oblivious about how their friendship appeared to
others.

“Are you that dumb? Or do you think I am dumb? Anyone with eyes can see how much time you
have been spending with Lan Wangji. Hell, even a blind person can feel your affections for the
peerless Second Jade. Only if they knew how vile-”

“Don’t drag him into this Jiang Cheng.”

“Drag?! He’s been there all this while. You think I am making this shit up?!”

“Jiang Cheng, I think you exert yourself too much. Take a break and think. And let me go.”

“Go where? Back to him?!’’

“Jiang Cheng!”

“You know what? You like Lan-er-gongzi so much, right? Just live in Gusu then. Yunmeng
doesn’t need you!”

The commotion seemed to have attracted attention though.

Suddenly, there was no noise. Puzzled, everyone looked at each other.

“Lan-er-gongzi, should we go check?” Nie Huaisang asked.

“Mn. I will go. Everyone stays here.” Lan Zhan said as he noticed Jiang zongzhu frowning and
walking towards them with xiongzhang and shufu in tow.

Lan Zhan swept past the rooms until he reached Wei Ying’s. The door was open and everything
was scattered around. He searched for the two until he noticed a lump of whites on the bed.

“Jiang Cheng! What are you doing?! Get off me!”

“Suddenly I am repulsive?” Jiang Wanyin asked, gritting his teeth. Wei Ying was pressed against
the bed while Jiang Wanyin almost straddled him.

Lan Zhan almost stormed into the room when he heard footsteps behind him. Out of the corner of
his eye, he saw an anxious Jiang zongzhu rushing towards the room.

“Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying let out a welp.

“Lan Zhan? You want to take Lan Wangji’s name even when you are under me? Are you his
whore now?!”

A lot of things happened at the same time.

Jiang Wanyin accidentally ripped Wei Ying’s outer robe.

Jiang zongzhu pushed past Lan Zhan and walked in on Wei Ying and Jiang Wanyin.

Wei Ying started crying.

Lan Zhan rushed to push Jiang Wanyin off Wei Ying.

There was an ominous silence before,

“Jiang Wanyin! Behave yourself!” Jiang zongzhu grabbed Jiang Wanyin as Lan Zhan took a
shivering Wei Ying into his arms.

“Wei Wuxi- Wei Ying! I- I didn’t mean that!” Jiang Wanyin stuttered as he paled.

It was too late.

“What is the meaning of this Jiang Wanyin?” Shufu walked in as he inspected the room.

“I- I was just talking to Wei Ying! I didn't mean to hurt him!! No!” He stepped towards Wei Ying
but was dragged back by an upset Jiang zongzhu.

“Enough! You will explain yourself outside. A-xian, how are you feeling?”

“I am alright Jiang-shushu.” Wei Ying spoke meekly, covering his chest with the blanket.

“I apologize on behalf of my son, A-xian. Please forgive me. I was not aware of this until now.”
Jiang zongzhu looked sincerely apologetic. Behind him, Jiang Wanyin was visibly panicking.

“Wei Ying, listen to me! Please-”

“Enough. You have shamed our clan enough.” Jiang Wanyin kept looking back at Wei Ying as he
was dragged away from the room.

“Wangji.” Xiongzhang began but he knew what he had to do.

“I will handle Wei Ying for the time being.” Lan Zhan whispered and waited till everyone left.

Wei Ying was finally his.

_____

There was a knock at the door, two hours later. Lan Zhan opened the door and let xiongzhang in.

“How is he?”

“Cried himself to sleep. He is very hurt.” Lan Zhan glanced at the bed where Wei Ying was curled
up. He looked so meek, so beautiful.

“Understandably. He trusted Jiang gongzi a lot.”

“How did it go?” Lan Zhan was curious. How deep in mud was Jiang Wanyin?

“Not well for Jiang gongzi. Their betrothal is now broken. Jiang zongzhu did it himself. It seems
that Gusu is a place for breaking betrothals.”

A place for homewreckers indeed. But it was for Wei Ying’s good.

“We reached an agreement. The news of Jiang gongzi’s misbehaviour will be kept under wraps.
But in return, Jiang guniang will have to marry me. Jiang zongzhu was barely hesitant.”

As Lan Zhan expected.

“Wei Ying?”

“Mn..that was interesting. Shufu put his foot down and declared that Wei Ying would not feel safe
in Lotus Pier. Moreover, I made sure Shufu mentioned the whip scars on Wei gongzi. It seems like
he is not treated well back home.”

“Mn. They do not value Wei Ying. They do not deserve him.”

“Does that mean Wei gongzi has agreed? Does he reciprocate?” Xiongzhang asked with a smile.

“Mn. He does.”

_____

Wei Ying became quiet after that. He would wake up, practise sword forms with Lan Zhan, barely
eat meals and go back to sleep. He had moved into the Jingshi, something that did not sit well with
shufu. However, when he witnessed Wei Ying’s nightmare, he couldn’t say anything.

Jiang Wanyin’s departure from Gusu was rather pathetic. But Lan Zhan made sure to bid him
farewell.

And thank him.

“Jiang Wanyin.”

Jiang Wanyin stopped in his tracks as he heard Lan Zhan. They were at the Cloud Recesses gate,
waiting for the elders to finish speaking.

“Lan Wangji.”

“Thank you.” Lan Zhan performed a discourteous bow, making Jiang Cheng scoff.

“For what? You slick bastard. Are you happy that you snatched him from me?” Jiang Wanyin
stepped closer but kept his hands at his sides. There were guards around who would not hesitate to
take action were he to attack their beloved Second Jade of Lan.

“Mn. And grateful. You made it easy.”

“I have never met someone as wretched as you, Lan Wangji. Do you think you deserve Wei Ying?!
You think he will never know what you did?” Jiang Wanyin lost his temper, as usual. Lan Zhan
smiled.

“What did I do, Jiang Wanyin? You were the one who abandoned Wei Ying, insulted Wei Ying,
assaulted Wei Ying.” Lan Zhan replied coolly.

“I did not assault him! It was a misunderstanding! I can never do that to him.” Jiang Wanyin
seemed to be withering.

Lan Zhan would have almost felt a bit of sympathy. Almost. But he felt nothing but happy.

“You called him a whore. Quite the lover you are, Jiang Wanyin. Anyway, it was a good
challenge. You aren’t a worthy opponent, but I appreciate the prize.” Lan Zhan bowed again.

“You fucker! Do you think Wei Ying is an object?!”

“A pretty one, yes. Worth the trouble.” Lan Zhan mildly shrugged.
“Lan Wangji, one day this wicked tongue of yours will land you in trouble. Wei Ying will find out
the real you and leave you because you are absolutely vile and undeserving of good things. Wei
Ying will leave you when he finds out the things you have done.” Jiang Wanyin spoke calmly.

“You wish. Last time I checked, the person he hates the most is you.” He could see Jiang Wanyin’s
heartbreak.

“Lan Wangji, I have nothing to say to you. You don’t deserve my words.” He bowed in return,
eyeing the guards.

“Appreciated. And yes, Jiang Wanyin. Remember to carefully spend the last few months you have
left with your sister. After all, she is to marry xiongzhang.”

Jiang Wanyin paused. He seemed to realise the implications.

“Was it you? It was you who made this happen.”

“Mn. Anything for Wei Ying.”

“How romantic.” Jiang Wanyin sneered.

“Truly. Farewell, Jiang Wanyin.”

“Goodbye Lan Wangji. I wish I had never met you.”

_____

It took a lot of patience to bring back the older Wei Ying. Lan Zhan managed to crack the walls
that Wei Ying built around himself down in 2 months. Jiang guniang was another reason that Wei
Ying opened up.

Now that xiongzhang and Jiang guniang were courting, the visits were frequent and Wei Ying
would often find himself in his sister’s company. She seemed to bring back the chirpy Wei Ying
during their time together. That’s all Lan Zhan wanted. He wanted Wei Ying to come back to
normal so that he could initiate the marriage proposal.

It was taking too long in Lan Zhan’s opinion.

Even if Wei Ying was somewhat happy with Jiang guniang, she still reminded him of Jiang
Wanyin. Wei Ying continued to have nightmares because of that. It was almost like Jiang Wanyin
was avenging his broken betrothal by never leaving Wei Ying’s thoughts.

Anyway, it was a new day and Lan Zhan was not going to ruin it by thinking about Jiang Wanyin.
He would rather think about how delectable Wei Ying looked as he waddled his way through the
freezing cold springs of Gusu, his slender back glistening with water droplets sliding down along
his spine.

Xiongzhang advised Wei Ying to visit the springs to relax. Wei Ying’s relaxation was Lan Zhan’s
punishment. Did anyone really expect Lan Zhan to control himself when Wei Ying looked like
that?

Dropping his outer robe, Lan Zhan entered the spring, making Wei Ying turn towards him. Now
that Lan Zhan looked properly, Wei Ying seemed to be shivering. Lan Zhan was more than ready
to make Wei Ying feel warm.
“Wei Ying.” Lan Zhan stepped closer until they were a foot apart.

“Lan Zhan.” Wei Ying reached out to hold his arm for support, barely being able to even stand in
that freezing cold which the springs emitted.

“Wei Ying. It is almost time for curfew.” Lan Zhan said, sliding his hand down Wei Ying’s side
and eventually snaking his arm around Wei Ying’s waist. This position allowed him to notice how
lean Wei Ying really was. Lan Zhan might have seen Wei Ying naked many times, thanks to all
the sneaking around. But now that Wei Ying stood within the confines of his muscled arms, the
difference was evident. It helped that Lan Zhan was slightly taller than Wei Ying because when
Wei Ying tilted his up, looking at Lan Zhan through his thick eyelashes, Lan Zhan lost control.

“Wei Ying...” Lan Zhan almost growled into Wei Ying’s ear, pulling him closer. Wei Ying
shivered, but Lan Zhan knew it wasn’t because of the cold anymore. He leaned back to look at Wei
Ying biting his lips to hold back a moan.

“Lan Zhan, please…” Wei Ying whispered faintly as Lan Zhan traced his thumb over Wei Ying’s
plump lips.

“Wei Ying is so beautiful.” Lan Zhan praised as he slowly walked backwards. As much as he
would have liked to take Wei Ying then and there, he had some propriety. Moreover, Lan Zhan
knew better than to let anyone else see his Wei Ying in the peaks of pleasure. That was a sight
reserved only for him.

“I have wanted you for so long.” Lan Zhan confessed.

“Me too. But now, I am yours, Lan Zhan. I am ready to be yours.” Wei Ying spoke so sweetly, Lan
Zhan couldn’t help but take those sweet lips in a fierce kiss. With the force that Lan Zhan applied,
Wei Ying had to support himself against the rock behind him for some grip.

“Lan Zhan! We are out in the open. Someone will catch us! ” Wei Ying spoke between his gasps
as he pushed Lan Zhan away from him.

“Wei Ying. Never. Never push me like that again.” Lan Zhan spoke menacingly.

Did Lan Zhan spend almost a year tearing Wei Ying and Jiang Wanyin apart, spending another
couple of months waiting for Wei Ying to get over Jiang fucking Wanyin only to be deprived of
Wei Ying? No.

“Lan Zhan…?” Wei Ying muttered, confused.

“We should leave before I lose control here.” Lan Zhan cleared his throat and gathered their robes.
Before Wei Ying could stand up properly, Lan Zhan picked him up in his arms.

“Lan Zhan!!” He squealed as Lan Zhan princess-carried him and walked towards the isolated path
which leads to the Jingshi.

_____

“Lan Zhan!!” Wei Ying gasped as Lan Zhan placed his mouth around Wei Ying’s hard cock. It
was extremely satisfying to watch Wei Ying flush under his gaze. Wei Ying looked so pliant, so
willing to be taken by Lan Zhan.

Wei Ying is just where Lan Zhan wanted him to be. On his bed, naked, his dainty wrists bound by
the Lan forehead ribbon above his head, his legs propped up on Lan Zhan’s shoulders.
“Wei Ying, mine.” Lan Zhan asserted before leaning down to suck Wei Ying harder and inserting
an oiled finger into Wei Ying’s hole.

“Lan Zhan, please!!! I can’t!” Wei Ying was writhing, but his movements were restricted.

“You can and you will.” Lan Zhan eyed Wei Ying’s cock, reddened to the point of begging for
release.

Wei Ying can do better.

Inserting another finger, he fucked Wei Ying with more fervour, enjoying Wei Ying’s breathy
moans and him calling out for Lan-er-gege and Lan Zhan.

“Mercy, Lan Zhan!” Wei Ying whined, trying to blink back his tears.

Oh, Lan Zhan liked to see him cry. He wouldn’t let Wei Ying deprive him of seeing him cry so
beautifully. Noticing that Wei Ying was becoming a bit loose, he added another finger and pushed
himself forward, bending Wei Ying into half.

“Lan Zhan, you brute! You are too rough on this pitiful Wei Ying!”

Pitiful indeed.

“But you take my fingers so well Wei Ying. Almost like you have done this before.” Lan Zhan
spoke, gritting his teeth. As smug as Lan Zhan was that he got Wei Ying, he would never be able
to forget that Jiang Wanyin fucked his Wei Ying before he could.

“Lan Zhan, I-“

“Look at you, your pitiful hole sucking my fingers in, so tight, Wei Ying. Shouldn’t you be
looser?” Thrusting deeper, he managed to brush against Wei Ying’s prostate and the scream that it
elicited would forever be embedded into Lan Zhan’s wet dreams.

“Lan Zhan-“

“Shouldn’t I punish you for letting another man fuck you before I did? Shouldn’t I punish my
pretty little wife for being such a slut?” Lan Zhan spoke viciously and felt the goosebumps that
formed over Wei Ying soft, milky skin. Lan Zhan knew that Wei Ying liked to be reminded what a
slut he was. Smirking, he pulled his fingers away abruptly.

“Lan Zhan, please, fuck! Please let me come!” Wei Ying begged so prettily, but Lan Zhan was not
known to be so gracious.

“You will come when I want you to.” Lan Zhan declared and sat back to look at his artwork. If it
was up to Lan Zhan, he would never let Wei Ying move from this position.

“Lan Zhan, I want you, please….” Poor Wei Ying, highly stimulated but unable to feel the friction
which he needed to finally have his release.

“What a cockslut you are, Wei Ying. Isn’t it a bit shameful for you to be begging to be fucked like
this?” Lan Zhan said, oiling his cock while he stared at Wei Ying’s hole. Wei Ying audibly
swallowed when he looked at Lan Zhan’s dick. Was he afraid he won’t be able to take it?

“Lan Zhan….you’re so big..” Lan Zhan sat up on his knees while rubbing his thumb over his own
slit as he watched Wei Ying practically drool over the sight of his cock.
Placing his hard cock against Wei Ying’s hole, he traced Wei Ying’s rim, catching Wei Ying’s
shudder.

“Afraid that you won’t be able to take it?” Lan Zhan whispered, pushing his cock further into Wei
Ying’s hole. The smaller one could only arch his back, his lips parting only to let out silent, broken
gasps.

“Too much! Too much!” Wei Ying screamed as Lan Zhan pistoned his hips further and his cock
breached Wei Ying in one strong thrust. Wei Ying tightened his grasp on the forehead ribbon as if
trying to ground himself to reality.

“Wei Ying will take it.” Lan Zhan pulled back out before thrusting harder, lost in the sensation of
those warm walls of Wei Ying’s hole surrounding Lan Zhan’s cock.

“Let me touch you, please!! Lan Zhan, I want to touch you!” Wei Ying pleaded as his body shook
every time Lan Zhan rammed his cock into him. Realising that he would like Wei Ying to touch
him as well, Lan Zhan pulled the ribbon loose and Wei Ying immediately locked his arms around
Lan Zhan’s neck, his nails digging into his skin.

“Fuck!! Harder, fuck me harder!” Wei Ying screamed before pulling Lan Zhan into a sloppy kiss,
their tongues fighting a battle of their own. When Lan Zhan gave a particularly harder thrust, he
must have hit the right spot because Wei Ying bit his lip harshly.

“Wei Ying!” Breaking the kiss, Lan Zhan leaned back, tasting blood in his mouth.

“Lan Zhan, please don’t stop! You- that spot, just- it was so good!” Wei Ying mewled as though
Lan Zhan was going to stop any time soon. Today, he was a man on a mission. Fuck Wei Ying so
hard that remembered only Lan Zhan for the time being.

There were more ways to make the sex better, Lan Zhan thought.

He pulled his cock out of Wei Ying and stood on his knees. Wei Ying looked taken aback as Lan
Zhan didn’t give him what he clearly earned.

“Lan Zhan?” He propped himself up with his elbows as Lan Zhan looked around the room.

Perfect. He just had to move Wei Ying around the room a little bit and it would be perfect.

Lan Zhan lifted Wei Ying into his arms and walked to the other end of the room. Placing him
down, he made Wei Ying face the mirror. Wei Ying’s eyes looked hazy as Lan Zhan made Wei
Ying place his hands against the wall on either side of the mirror.

“Now Wei Ying can see how desperate he looks as he begs for my cock. If I knew Wei Ying was
yearning to be fucked, I would have done it much before.” Lan Zhan placed his chin on Wei
Ying’s shoulder, locking his eyes with Wei Ying’s through the mirror.

“Lan Zhan…yes please fuck me….!”

“Mn…” Lan Zhan nuzzled his neck, as he pulled Wei Ying’s right leg up, holding it mid-air as he
entered Wei Ying again.

“Lan Zhan, nnghh- so deep!”

Lan Zhan started moving slowly as Wei Ying moaned slowly, bringing one of his hands to his
cock.
“Tch. Wei Ying, did I say that you can come?” Lan Zhan whispered near Wei Ying’s ear and
ended his sentence with a bite on his earlobe.

“Fuck!!” Wei Ying shouted and Lan Zhan smiled smugly, recalling the moment he discovered Wei
Ying’s weak spot.

“Touch yourself. No, not your cock. Here.” He placed Wei Ying’s hand on his own nipple,
oversensitive thanks to Lan Zhan’s relentless teasing as soon as they stepped into the Jingshi.

“Lan Zhan, please…” Wei Ying had been denied for so long, he sobbed. Just a few more moments,
because Lan Zhan was close too.

“Wei Ying, taking me so nicely. Such a good wife.” Lan Zhan teased Wei Ying’s other nipple and
Wei Ying mewled, losing his balance and bending towards the mirror. His cheek was pressed
against the cold surface and he shivered again. Lan Zhan increased his pace and thrust ruthlessly
into Wei Ying, their moans and groans filling the Jingshi.

“Lan Zhan! I am close!!” Wei Ying whined and Lan Zhan took the cue, pulling Wei Ying back to
him.

“I am going to come in you, Wei Ying.”

“Yes! Yes! Please- fill me up!” Wei Ying goaded him, pressing himself against Lan Zhan’s chest.

“Lan Zhan, wait! I-I will get pregnant! No, wait!” Wei Ying struggled in his hold.

Lan Zhan paused.

“Wei Ying...doesn’t want to?” He looked at Wei Ying’s reflection in the mirror.

“I...Lan Zhan, we are too young...what if something happens?” Wei Ying said, unsure.

“Wei Ying, you are a strong cultivator. And you are very responsible too.”

Lan Zhan did not come this close to finally claiming Wei Ying wholly only for him to back out.
No. There is no backing out. Lan Zhan will try his best to make sure Wei Ying is impregnated as
soon as possible.

“Yes, but...we are not married, Lan Zhan.”

“Yet.” Lan Zhan grunted as he began moving inside Wei Ying.

“Ah! But Lan Zh-ah! What will your Shufu say? And- fuck!”

“I have made my interests clear to everyone, Wei Ying. Besides, don’t you want a product of our
love inside you?” Lan Zhan asked, gently placing his hand on Wei Ying’s flat stomach.

“Love…?” Wei Ying turned towards him, his eyes sparkling.

Oh. That worked? It was that easy to make Wei Ying listen? So starved that just the mention of the
word ‘love’ caught his attention?

Did Jiang Wanyin never tell him that he loved him? How foolish.

“Mn. Love. Don’t you love me, Wei Ying?” Lan Zhan set a punishing pace again, both of them on
the verge of an orgasm.
“I-ah! I do!” Wei Ying breathed heavily as Lan Zhan fucked him harder than before.

“Good. I love you too, Wei Ying.” He whispered into Wei Ying’s ear, kissing it and snuck a
glance at Wei Ying’s face and that was enough for Wei Ying to come with a long moan, arching
his back and placing his pretty head on Lan Zhan’s shoulder. Lan Zhan followed suit and filled
Wei Ying with his seed, as he held Wei Ying like he was afraid he would disappear any second and
all of this would turn out to be a fever dream.

Wei Ying was too fucked-out to stand on his own legs and after making sure Wei Ying’s body
took every bit of his come, Lan Zhan picked him up and took him to bed.

Finally. Finally, Wei Ying was his and no one would ever be able to tear them apart. Lan Zhan
touched Wei Ying’s belly. He hoped that soon Wei Ying would be round with their child. It would
be the best way to calm Wei Ying down after their wedding.

Wei Ying’s naked body was sprawled all over him, but Lan Zhan did not mind. He held him closer
and massaged Wei Ying’s lower back.

“Love...you Lan Zhan…” Wei Ying whispered in his sleep, snuggling more into Lan Zhan.

Lan Zhan had planned well. First, he would knock Wei Ying up with a baby, make him marry Lan
Zhan, then xiongzhang would marry Jiang guniang, so Wei Ying would not feel homesick. After
the first child, he would simply put another in Wei Ying again. After all, what else would Wei
Ying have to worry about?

_____

Apparently a lot. But it worked in Lan Zhan’s favour. Wei Ying got pregnant at their first try, so
potent was Lan-er-gege’s sperm as Wei Ying teased. Two months into the pregnancy, the Lan
doctor had advised Wei Ying to be extremely careful as he was still young. No exertion whatsoever
and absolutely no alcohol. Wei Ying was not pleased at first.

A rough round of sex later, and a cuddling session with Lan Zhan making Wei Ying imagine a
world with their kids, pampering them, Wei Ying lost some of his hesitations.

“Lan Zhan..” Wei Ying called for him from the porch, where he basked under the sun.

“Mn?” Lan Zhan placed a platter of fruits for Wei Ying who ate it sulkily.

“Lan Zhan, what if I mess up?” Wei Ying looked at him, his face having a crestfallen expression.

“No, you won’t. Wei Ying, I am here to take care of you. Do not worry.” Lan Zhan bent down to
kiss the still-flat belly.

“Lan Zhan, that tickles!” He giggled as Lan Zhan picked him like he weighed nothing and placed
him in his lap.

“Mn. Wei Ying, thank you.” Lan Zhan felt like he needed to say it. As much as Lan Zhan made
sure Wei Ying got pregnant, it wouldn’t be good if Wei Ying kept second-guessing the pregnancy.

“Thank you?” Wei Ying asked, looking confused.

“Mn. For being such a good wife. And taking care of yourself and our child.” Lan Zhan took Wei
Ying’s lips into a soft kiss. Wei Ying wrapped his arms around Lan Zhan’s neck and smiled
against Lan Zhan’s lips.
“And you are such a good husband, Lan Zhan. Always spoiling us.” Wei Ying teased, tugging at
his forehead ribbon. Lan Zhan eyed the ribbon around Wei Ying’s wrist.

The day when he made Wei Ying his, officially.

The day when they took those three bows and the moment they performed the handfasting
ceremony with the ribbons. Lan Zhan will never forget the day when both of them were dressed in
red. Wei Ying looked splendid and royal in those red wedding robes, his face hidden behind a veil.

They couldn’t invite guests, though. It was a rushed wedding as Wei Ying was pregnant and they
had to get done with the ceremony before Wei Ying started showing. Jiang guniang happened to be
in Gusu when shufu scolded Lan Zhan and Wei Ying before hurriedly making arrangements for a
shotgun wedding. It was fortunate that Wei Ying was not the one for long marriage rituals. He was
just happy that his shijie was there.

“Have you thought about children? Do you want a boy or a girl?” Wei Ying asked playfully, his
fingers fiddling with the ends of Lan Zhan’s ribbon.

“Mn. I have always adored children. And it does not matter if it is a boy or a girl, as long as it is
with Wei Ying.” Lan Zhan pulled him closer, pressing his half-hard cock against Wei Ying, who
whimpered at the contact.

“Ah Lan Zhan, such a sweet talker!” He laughed but rolled his hips deliberately against Lan Zhan.

“You would be a good mother, Wei Ying. You care a lot.” Lan Zhan smiled, placing a brief kiss on
Wei Ying’s lips.

“Lan Zhan! You are too much!” Wei Ying covered his face to hide his blush.

_____

Months passed and it was autumn soon, bathing Gusu with chilly winds, indicating a harsh winter.
Wei Ying had been confined within the Jingshi to keep himself warm. By the time autumn came,
Wei Ying was already five months pregnant. Occasionally, he would step out to look after the
wedding preparations of the Lan Sect Leader. After many years, there would be a Lan-furen and
Gusu made sure to prepare well to accommodate a new person. Wei Ying was the most excited
that his sister would now be his sister-in-law.

“Shijie!! Do you realise, our children would be related by blood!! Isn’t that wonderful?” Wei Ying
exclaimed excitedly, as he held his sister’s hands tightly. Jiang Yanli laughed but stole hesitant
glances of Lan Zhan.

He understands that look. That look meant 'our children would still have been related by blood if
Lan-er-gongzi hadn’t impregnated you.'

How presumptuous, Jiang guniang. As if Lan Zhan would have let Wei Ying give birth to Jiang
Wanyin’s child. Not even over his dead body would he allow that.

“It is wonderful A-xian! You look so cute, didi!” Jiang guniang pinched Wei Ying’s cheeks.

That was true. Wei Ying looked adorable with a baby bump, his body gaining fat. He still looked
beautiful.

“Shijie!! No! I am not a kid anymore! I am going to have one of my own!” He protested but looked
pleased.
“Xianxian isn’t three anymore?” She teased as Wei Ying laughed.

It was a good decision to bring Jiang guniang into the Lan family. Being surrounded by a motherly
figure would surely remind Wei Ying of his own obligations to his child and curb him from getting
into mischief and exerting himself with cultivation.

_____

He was careful though. He didn’t know - Jiang guniang, no, not guniang anymore as she was
married to xiongzhang now - Sao zi that much.

After all, she was still Jiang Wanyin’s sister. He had to keep an eye on her. And he knew it was
right to.

After the wedding ceremonies in both Yunmeng and Gusu, sao zi finally settled in Cloud Recesses
as Lan-furen. Xiongzhang seemed to be pleased with his new wife so Lan Zhan did not feel
regretful.

Wei Ying was a bit disheartened when he had first realised he couldn’t attend the Yunmeng part of
the wedding. Had Lan Zhan ensured that Wei Ying would be heavily pregnant around the time of
his sister’s wedding so there would be no way he could even consider going to Yunmeng?

Yes.

“A-cheng looked forward to seeing you.” Sao-zi smiled faintly as she patted her brother’s head.

If she wasn’t his sao zi and if Wei Ying wasn't there, he would have given her a piece of his mind
right away.

Lan Zhan never let Wei Ying out of his sight ever since that one incident which involved a weak
and unconscious Wei Ying and two days of pouring spiritual energy into Wei Ying to bring him
back to his feet. So he sat in the Jingshi while Wei Ying and his sister talked outside, on the porch.

“Shijie….” He muttered, addressing her by a title she no longer holds for him. He should have
called her sao zi too but it was a habit Wei Ying wasn’t willing to part with.

“Hmm, I understand. I told him about your pregnancy.”

There was a pause before he heard a sorrowful voice.

“What did he say?”

“He’s happy for you, A-xian. He wishes he could see you.”

Like Lan Zhan would let that happen any time soon. Lan Zhan would decide when Jiang Wanyin
gets to meet Wei Ying. Till then, he can pine away and continue doing so even after seeing Wei
Ying.

“I don’t know…”

“I know Xianxian. I would never force something you don’t want. I just wanted to let you know
that he would always be willing to see you.”

His sao zi was sneakier than he thought.

_____
The delivery distracted all of them enough to not think about Jiang Wanyin.

Wei Ying gave birth to a lovely baby boy, perfect just like his mother.

When Lan Zhan entered a room with a sweaty Wei Ying and a wailing baby, he knew that he fell in
love with Wei Ying all over again.

“Lan Zhan! Look!” Wei Ying whisper-yelled as they were alone in the room for some time. The
baby was soon engrossed in drinking his milk as Lan Zhan settled beside his family.

“Wei Ying, he is beautiful.” Lan Zhan couldn’t take his eyes off his son. Their son.

“Lan Zhan, did you think of a name?” Wei Ying looked at him. He looked tired, hair stuck to his
forehead because of the sweat, his robes rumpled and loose, open to make sure their son was fed.

“Lan Yuan.”

“As in hope?”

“Mn. Yuan as in honest, hope or desire.”

“Lan Yuan….A-Yuan...It’s perfect, Lan Zhan.”

“Not as perfect as you, Wei Ying.” He kissed Wei Ying gently before Wei Ying broke the kiss.

“Lan Zhan, look!” Wei Ying giggled as he looked towards their A-Yuan. Lan Zhan looked down
to see faint golden eyes staring back at him, holding Wei Ying’s finger tightly within his little fist.

Wei Ying had another protector.

Lan Yuan was truly his father’s son.

_____

Three years later.

“Hey! Careful!” Jiang Cheng muttered as he noticed a kid bump into him and fall down on his
bum.

“You should not be running around like this, what if you get hurt, hmm?” Jiang Cheng bent down
and patted against the child’s white robes to get rid of the dust.

Were Lan children running around now? Wasn’t there a rule against that?

“This one apolo-apolo…” The kid must not be more than 3, still trying to speak like an adult. He
wondered whose kid it was.

“No apology needed.” Jiang Cheng smiled until he saw the child’s face properly.

Golden eyes.

It could only mean one thing.

“A-Yuan! How can you make your poor A-Niang run around like this?” He heard a very familiar
voice and Jiang Cheng’s life came crashing down.

Wei Ying.
“A-Niang!! A-Yuan is sorry!” The kid ran out of Jiang Cheng’s grasp and wrapped his arms
around Wei Ying, who stood frozen in front of him.

Four years. It had been four long years since he saw those silver eyes look at him.

“Jiang Cheng…” He heard Wei Ying whisper and Jiang Cheng couldn’t help but let out a choked
sob.

“Wei Ying…!” He got up hurriedly and rushed to Wei Ying who still stood rooted to his spot.

“How have you been?” Jiang Cheng almost touched Wei Ying’s cheek before the kid, probably
called A-Yuan squirmed and made Wei Ying move back.

“Ah! I...I have been well, Jiang zongzhu. Congratulations on your new position.” Wei Ying bowed
formally, sending a thousand arrows to his heart. Just some years of distance and things had
changed so much?

“Wei Ying, please. Just...just call me Jiang Cheng.” He couldn’t help but beg.

“Don’t, please don’t call me that.” He flinched visibly as Jiang Cheng lifted his hand to touch Wei
Ying.

Wei Ying flinched and Jiang Cheng’s will to live dropped drastically. As he dropped his head to
look at the ground, he noticed something.

A bump.

Wei Ying was pregnant.

Jiang Cheng tried to feel happy but he just couldn’t. Another proof of Wei Ying leading a
completely different life away from him?

A life that was supposed to be theirs. A happy family in Lotus Pier.

He looked towards the child who looked back at him, looking defiant. The look was too familiar.

“Wei Ying.”

There he was. The bane of Jiang Cheng’s entire life.

Lan fucking Wangji.

“Ah, Lan Zhan! Look who’s here!” Wei Ying broke eye contact and turned towards his husband
and Jiang Cheng finally looked at the man.

Still so fucking arrogant.

“Jiang Wanyin. You are here.” This time, Lan Wangji did not even attempt a mock bow, he just
bent to pick his son up in his arms. He spoke, staring at him with those golden eyes that haunt him
every night. The golden eyes that had set themselves upon something that hadn’t belonged to him.

Not a day goes by without Jiang Cheng loathing the Second Jade of Lan.

“Uhh….Jiang zongzhu, did you see the baby?” Wei Ying looked at him again and Jiang Cheng
made sure to memorise every part of that beautiful face again.
 “Yes. The baby’s healthy. It’s a boy.” Jiang Cheng spoke with difficulty, his throat feeling tight.
This was all wrong. They were meant to see A-Jie's baby together. It should have been the two of
them holding their nephew together.

“Diedie!! A-niang!!! I want to see baby!” The child moved incessantly in his father’s arms and Lan
Wangji exchanged looks with Wei Ying, making him sigh.

“Lan Zhan, this little radish will shake the entire Cloud Recesses if he doesn’t get to see his baby
cousin right away.” Wei Ying spoke fondly and held A-yuan’s hand as Lan Wangji placed him on
the ground.

“Wei Ying..-” He called out before he felt Lan Wangji’s sharp gaze on him.

“Ah! A-yuan! Behave yourself! Is this the way you behave in front of a Sect Leader?” Wei Ying
reprimanded his son and Jiang Cheng melted. Being a mother suited Wei Ying so much.

His yearning must be so obvious that even the kid, much too similar to his father, stared into his
soul as if telling him to back off.

“Ah! This boy! Absolutely ridiculous! I have to go now before he gets more restless.” Wei Ying let
out an exasperated sigh and Jiang Cheng wanted to say so many things. So many things had been
left unsaid. But nothing came out.

“Wei Ying, just hear me out-”

“Jiang Wanyin.” Lan Wangji deadpanned and stood between Jiang Cheng and Wei Ying.

“Lan Wangji.” Jiang Cheng couldn’t help but grit his teeth, ensuring that he showed every inch of
hatred that he felt for that loathful, bride-stealing man.

“Jiang Wanyin should know better than to desire for something that does not belong to him.”

~~~~~

End Notes

sao zi - elder brother's wife

Thanks to sally again for summarising this fic-

JC - whore
WWX - what the FUCK did you just call me?
LWJ - whore
WWX - my legs are open

I love Jiang Cheng so much and I feel so bad for wronging him in this fic lmaooo. His bride
was stolen by our Resident bitch, Lan Zhan lol. Might fuck around and write a sequel, who
knows haha!

Thanks for reading!

Please drop by the archive and comment to let the author know if you enjoyed their work!