In the Shadows

Chapter 12

As the evening cast its gentle embrace over the room, the melodious notes of the guqin filled the air, weaving a tapestry of soothing melodies. Zhan sat on the floor, his eyes alight with a childlike joy, twirling the flute in his fingers as Wang Yibo skillfully plucked the strings.

In that tranquil moment, Haikuan entered the room, summoned by Wang Yibo's call. "Yes, master," Haikuan acknowledged, his voice resonating with dutiful reverence. The harmonious notes of the guqin fell silent, as if holding their breath in anticipation.

With a touch of impatience in his tone, Wang Yibo's words pierced the air, commanding Haikuan's attention. " Inform Wen Qing that she is to depart. I want her gone by morning." The weight of those words hung in the room, their implications reverberating through the hearts of those present.

Acknowledging the order with a bow, Haikuan swiftly left the room, entrusted with the task of delivering Yibo's message to Wen Qing. As Haikuan disappeared from sight, Zhan's countenance shifted to one of sorrow. He couldn't help but interject, his words tinged with compassion. "But what about her brother?"

Yibo's features tightened, a hint of disappointment flickering across his expression. In a measured tone, he responded, urging Zhan to temper the emotions that governed his heart. "He will depart as well. Zhan, you mustn't let sentiment rule your judgment. You gifted her brother 400 additional years, you have already bestowed upon her a priceless gift, extending the time they can share together."

Zhan's gaze met Yibo's, his eyes betraying a conflict of emotions. "I understand," he murmured, grappling with the weight of his empathy. "But still, I can't help but feel sorry for them both, for what they must endure."

"Come on, let's get you ready for bed," Yibo gently suggested as he tidied up the guqin. Zhan, filled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, hurriedly rose from the floor but accidentally knocked over his tea pot, spilling its contents onto his lap. "Sorry," he apologized, feeling remorseful for the mess created in Yibo's study.

Without a moment's hesitation, Yibo swiftly gathered Zhan into his arms and carried him to his bedroom. Setting him down on a chair, he assured him, "I'll be right back." True to his word, Yibo returned shortly, bearing two large buckets filled with warm water, which he poured into a wooden tub positioned in the corner of the room. "I've set up a bath for you," he informed Zhan, offering his assistance in removing his robes.

As Yibo began to peel away the layers of clothing, reaching the final one, Zhan blushed, his cheeks tinted with a rosy hue. "I... I got it," he murmured, feeling a touch of shyness creeping in. Sensing his hesitation, Yibo leaned forward and pressed a tender kiss upon Zhan's forehead. "I'll wait for you to finish. I'll be right outside the door," he reassured him, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

Reluctantly, Zhan didn't want Yibo to leave his side. "Just turn around while I step into the tub," he requested, a soft smile gracing his lips as we waited for Yibo to respond. 

Responding playfully, Yibo teasingly countered, "How will you know I've looked away?"

Zhan's cheeks deepened in color, a vibrant shade of red. "Because... you wouldn't lie to me, right?" he responded, a mischievous smirk gracing his lips. Yibo couldn't help but chuckle, captivated by Zhan's playful demeanor that reminded him so much of his past life as Wei Ying. He playfully tapped Zhan's nose, his eyes filled with affection and adoration.

Honoring Zhan's request, Yibo turned around, giving him the privacy he desired. Meanwhile, Zhan slowly undressed, removing the final garment with care and grace. With a composed yet playful demeanor, he eased himself into the welcoming embrace of the warm water, allowing it to envelop his body. Yibo turned back around, greeted by the sight of his beloved Wei Ying, his eyes closed in bliss as he rested his head against the back of the tub.