#writing-strip

Warning: Yandere themes. Drugging, demeaning language, and mentions of long-term stalking. Thank you.

Summary: Being the only child of successful business owners in Liyue meant a life of luxury. As such, you’ve developed quite a sharp eye for the top-class of materials, so much so that you pride yourself on it. It wasn’t until a meeting with the most arrogant man you’ve ever met that you felt you had to prove your skill. 

 An evening in Liyue Harbor is an evening like no other. The air is crisp and cold since the breeze flows from the ocean and swims through the streets of Liyue. The gleams of the lanterns scattered about are like stars that you can just reach out and touch. Truly a sight like no other.

But more spectacular than the scenery of Liyue Harbor at night is the commotion that goes on after when the golden glow of the sun turns into the quiet gleam of the moon. As expected of the city’s lesser-known title: “Teyvat’s Capital of Commerce,” the residents are bustling even when the fireflies blink in the darkness. You are usually more interested in the night market life than anything Liyue Harbor’s scenery had to offer. 

Hailing from Liyue Harbor meant that you’re very involved in the market, even more so than the average person since your parents are running a very successful clothing business. The night market in Liyue Harbor is a special case for you, since you’re a buyer— someone who keeps track and purchases essential materials for a business. 

Though tonight’s wander has a more important purpose than the usual browsing. You’re on the lookout for some Sango Pearls. Only the best quaility should be picked for your mother’s birthday present. As the only child of the most famous designers in Liyue Harbor, who, other than you, would know instantly about the quality of items from a mere look? You can’t think of any other name. 

So comes the evening as you set out to begin your personal quest. From your parents’ shop descending down the stairs on top of Xinyue Kiosk, you hear the loud and crowded noise of the bustling market. Across from the stairs is Mingxing Jewelry, a familiar shop where you usually do business. 

You’ve asked Xingxi to bring out the pearls for you to take a look. She lets you go at it alone since you’re always taking your time. Though having a sharp eye makes things easier, there’s multiple discussions to be had with yourself when picking exquisite items. 

The sea’s gems came in a velvet box—pure white—to showcase the multitudes of colors from the pearls. Amongst the red, pink, and purple pearls displayed, a lustrous golden pearl with a lavender sheen stood out to you the most. Under the dark sky, the light that shines from the shop’s lanterns reflects against the pearl like a mirror. Unlike the others, the gem is definitely clear and smooth all around. You hold the pearl high, seeing the light reveals its purple glow at the edges which mixes into the golden base color. Such a breathtaking pearl! 

“That one isn’t a good pick.” A voice says from behind you. You turn your head and lock eyes with a dark-haired gentleman wearing a smile. The lenses of his glasses that frame his face shine with the lanterns, making him seem pompous. 

You feel a pinch the moment he abruptly brought up his opinion. “And why do you think so?” you reply, surprised.  

“The pearl’s reflection is purple. Sango Pearls of the best quality has a pink or reddish sheen to it, indicating the connection Orobashi, Watatsumi’s god. It’s a well-known fact with the people of Watatsumi Island,” the man answers you, informing you with an arrogant attitude.  

“Please,” you scoff off his answer, “the ‘fact’ you’re talking about is just folk’s tale. It has no meaning to the quality of the pearl itself. The pearl’s color is connected to the color inside of the shell, fun ‘fact.’ Clearly, Watatsumi Island's purple calms are the ones that make the Sango Pearl its gloss: purple.”

“Pardon me, but clearly you’ve never seen a class AAA Sango Pearl to compare it to.”

The man chuckles, clearly having fun. You can’t believe what is happening right now. It’s one thing to disagree with another about precious items but to blatantly insult you in your face? You can’t help but spit the tone right back. 

“... You’re not someone usually well-liked, aren’t you? Considering how forceful you were,” you ask him with an attitude, eyes narrowing in annoyance.

“My help is usually sought out from numerous people. My opinion has great value, honestly,” the man replies with the same smile. Something about his smile makes you irritated. 

“Ah, you don’t really look like it,” you say, switching your tone to a relaxed statement. You bring your eyes to focus on the pearl once again, but you can feel his smile flicker. Archons, does he irk you. “Well, thanks for your —unwelcome— input, but I find this pearl to match what I’m looking for.”

“ I’d agree with you, that pearl does match your tastes much better anyway.”

Clearly, there wasn’t anything wrong with what he said, but everything that comes out of his mouth seems so… underhanded.  That tone especially, it feels wrong. 

“But!” the man fumbles around in his jacket with his hands, “to apologize for my —unwelcome— input, here’s a gift for you.”

The man called over Xingxi and threw a heavy pouch of Mora that hit the counter with a hard ‘clunk.’

“Though if you really want to seek out my opinion, come by the Northland Bank and ask for ‘Pantalone.’ I’ll show you some quality pearls. That is, if you really think you’re right.” 

The gall of the man! You would’ve rejected the offer immediately out of spite if it wasn’t for that second sentence. But your pride as a child of the top designers in Liyue Harbor is in control. Your eyes are honed precisely for helping out the family business. This isn’t about a damn pearl, it was about your competence as a buyer of supplies! 

“I’d doubt that you can procure any of these ‘quality’ pearls you speak of, but I’ll come. Only to see how your preferences match up to mine.”

“I’ll look forward to it, [ ].”

You can’t with that damn smile. 

• ° • ° • ° •

“Which is why the nacre of the pearl should also count as a separate category into determining its grade,” Pantalone concludes.

“Yes, you’ve went on and on how judging the iridescence of the pearl isn’t the same as judging its color..” you roll your eyes, “but that doesn’t explain anything about why you would grade desert fox fur as the least desirable fur. You’re absolutely wrong, by the way.”

“Of course you wouldn’t understand it based on what you know, [ ]. But just like how people mistake judging a pearl’s nacre and color together, it’s the same with judging color and the pattern of a fur.” 

It’s funny how a simple chat about a pearl gradings turned into a deep and interesting conversation about fox furs. The high-class people around your age aren’t very fond of discussing the bits and pieces of precious things, just only that they have them. It’s a unexpectedly fulfilling discussion, even though Pantalone is undeniably an ass about it. 

“We should stop here since it’s getting late,” you start off, leaning against the railing. The two of you are on the bridge right out front of the bank, after you two got into a heated discussion inside that needed to be had outside. The guard hurried off after Pantalone gave him a look you didn’t get to see. 

“... I see.” Pantalone has that unreadable smile on his face. “However, why don’t you head inside for some tea to warm up? To prepare you on the way back home.”

“I think we’ll end up getting to a duel about tea leaves, and if so, I’ll leave at sunrise.” you chuckle. “Thanks, but no thanks, sir Pantalone.” 

“Please, heated discussions will not commence whatsoever. Think of it as an offering for making a new bond… with me.”

You’re surprised. A new friendship wasn’t something you thought you were going to make today, much less an asshole for a friend, but here you are. You beam at him. 

“Well then, sure.”

• ° • ° • ° •

The room is stuffy. You come to, opening your eyes as try to grasp your surroundings. What happened? Didn’t you just had tea with Pantalone a moment ago? 

“You’re awake? Good, because I was starting to get bored talking to your unconscious self.”

Pantalone reveals himself, walking into the light which hangs above you. The lenses of his glasses shine even brighter, illuminating his eyes. Pantalone is wearing his familiar close-eye smile. But now he’s horrifying that way. 

“Honestly, I didn’t expect our chemistry to be so well-matched considering that I only watched you from afar, but it went so well. Our conversations, that is. I’m so glad we started off so.. thrilling.” Pantalone starts, as he circles around you. You, whose hands are tied behind your back and your feet secured at the chair’s front legs, watch him in terror or in rage; there’s so much emotion within that you don’t have enough time to settle on which. “It’s funny, you know, how similar you are to me when I was a bit younger. Arrogant, yet so naive. It’s no wonder I felt an instant connection with you.” 

Pantalone circles back to the front, facing you. He leans in closer to you, grabbing the sides of your seat, shifting his weight to his hands. Pantalone's thumbs are barely touching your thigh. Your voice is muffled from the cloth wedged between your jaws. All you could do is squirm intensely from refusal. Panic settles in. 

“For someone who acts so high-class and knowledgeable, you can’t even comprehend real wealth. Not like the pocket change your parents make yearly, not what I can show you.” Pantalone chuckles, his teeth showing through his smile. “Adorable and naive. There’s just something about you, [ ]. You show how much of an idiot you are with your pride and knowledge, but yet stir me all the same.” 

Pantalone’s face isn’t paired with the familiar yet irritating closed-eye smile. No, the open grin with his upturned eyes is instead the most frightening expression you’ve ever seen a human make. You can see the madness in him and it’s terrifying. 

(I kinda made my own head cannons from the story "Infected" by LTmayx on Wattpad. CHECK IT OUTTT it's hella good).

So the world building is quite simple and similar to LTmayx's: everyone's a yandy. Unlike how the traits of a yandere are diseases that have become normal, they're just inherently natured within that world. The difference is what type of yandy they are. Blues are protective, green are possessive, reds are obsessive, and white are sadistic. But there's rare type that most people tend to be wary about: the clears. And that's you! 🫵

How lucky to be in a yandere world where you have no inherent traits of being a yandy like all the people around you! Being a clear means tough luck; you won't get the superhuman strength most people grow up to have to care for their beloved, nor will you have any talent in all bodily senses. You're just normal :(.

Which also if someone's on to you, it's very unlikely you'll win. You're too weak and too disadvantageous to do anything about it. You're at the whims of whatever type that took you, so good luck!

I want to write a case by case for each type haha, with different protagonists ofc. I already have some ideas worked out for my fav type, protective hehehe. Just need to actually do the writing. ( ´Д｀)=3

Also, do give LTmayx's fic a chance. There's a secret club, college settings, childhood friend trope, friends to enemies to lovers(debatable lol), murder, creepy obessive shrines, REVERSE HAREM, stalking, character building, 4 different endings with 4 different guys, all kinds of shit! Take a look! My Wattpad days are showing lmao.

Warning: Yandere Themes. Includes stalking, obsessive thoughts, kidnapping, drugged reader, mention of torture, amongst other things I know you’ll quite like considering if you still clicked "Keep Reading". 

Summary: You wake up in what seems to be a basement, meeting your self-proclaimed husband.

Summary: Jumin is spiraling down in his thoughts about you. He monologues about his internal conflict between his ugly desires and his genuine love for you.

Look at you. You’re humming while you’re cooking. Your hair looks soft as it partially covers your face. The sunlight through the penthouse window is making you glow and ethereal. He’s standing next to you, quiet and admiring, and you feel it, he knows. There’s something with you that makes him so entranced. You steal a glance at him through your hair, and it’s adorable to him. You smile as you make eye contact, and he’s fallen instantly.

It is safe in this moment. Is it because you’re here? He never knew seeing you cook would be so serene and precious. The still and quiet picture of him helping and you leading the way makes him feel so grateful, so incomprehensibly vulnerable that he couldn't even picture if it could before you. This floaty and heart-skipping feeling is so new and vivid for him.

He wants more of this and more of you. The fluid chemistry, the genuineness from the both of you for each other, the loyalty, the mudane mornings, all of it. You're handling the skillet while he's chopping up veggies, elbows almost within reach. It’s incredibly maddening when your bodies are so close but not exactly touching. His fondness grows stronger in moments like these, but so do other… questionable emotions.

This high he feels when you two are together: he knows nothing can replace it. And it's why he wants it all to himself, to be drunk and drowning in these feelings of love. He knows now how liberating love can be. To be filled with neverending passion but also with mudane calmness. Jumin knows the euphoria of you. He wants it all. With such a powerful feeling of desire and understanding of such value, the fear of something going wrong is equally as powerful.

When you’re with him, you make him go crazy, paranoid, and anxious, anxious, anxious.

But the emotion he hates most of all when he sees you smile so genuinely at him is greed. Unadulterated and ugly desire to keep you to himself. To keep you safe so nothing can harm you. He needs more from you. Your wholesomeness and sincerity can be so easily corrupted. He has to protect you from being influenced by anything that can deter you from being you. But he knows that it’s not only just that. He wants to protect you to protect himself. The pain of you leaving is too unbearable for him to even fathom. It scares him so much to know this is possible.

He realizes that being too lost in you makes him rear his ugly fixations. You wouldn’t like to see this side at all. A gentleman wouldn’t dare think of his beloved like this. It’s not right. He’s going to hurt you when he thinks like this. The internal conflict in him eats him up, even more so than his admiration at times. He knows that he would never admit it. He is such an ugly mutant that puts on a show for everyone, all the while harboring these secretive and ugly emotions behind his mask, better to hide himself than show who he really is. Would you even love him still? How would you even react if you knew that these feelings still reside in his mind? Who does he think he is that deserves such genuineness from you even though he hides how he really thinks? It feels like your love is too much and too generous. He's undeserving. Why would you be with someone who’s so secretly so warped and twisted on the inside?

His eyes grow dark once more, as he unintentionally focuses on the food you’re making. You glance at him again and realize he’s lost in thought. You gently brush his hand with yours, and he snaps his eyes back to you.

“I love you, Jumin,” you say as you smile again.

And just like that, his fear vanishes. Yes, that’s right, you love him. It is all of him that you love, as you expressed in your vows. How stupid of him to forget that you know all the faces he has shown you and that you accept them all. He’s spiraling again.

“I love you most, my dear,” Jumin expresses earnestly.

Summary: Jumin proposes to you with the sweetest words he practiced over and over.

Whenever both of you spent quality time, it was frequently spent in the rooftop garden that the penthouse had. Being nature lovers, the both of you treasured the place. "There's a special sort of peace that is only found in the abundance of nature," as Jumin claimed 2 months ago when he had the gardener plant all sorts of flowers so that they would bloom in every season.

After a date that lasted the whole day, Jumin told you that he had a surprise for you up there, and was acting all uncharacteristically nervous. Something's up, you feel, seeing how he's not fiddling with his cufflinks, but something inside his coat pocket.

"I know it's a bit late to be out in the garden," he begins as you open the doors to the rooftop, "But it'll be worth it, I promise.”

You laugh at his words, "Jumin, you don't need to persuade me into seeing what you have planned. I'm curious though, to think what sort of surprise that made you so nervous like this?"

You look out to the garden. It was a summer night but the roses were full in bloom, their smell permeating the garden. Stringed lights shined the way to the gazebo, illuminating something different from before. There's a row of rose petals that lined both sides of the pathway along with silver star streamers intertwining with the string lights. The whole place is decorated with red heart-shaped balloons, and even more streamers connecting them. You look back at Jumin with wide eyes, mouth gaping wide open. He earnestly smiles at you, seeing how bewildered he got you.

Jumin gently clasps your hand and leads you to the gazebo. Your mind is still not over the distracting decorations, he really went all out.

"I know you're not one for dramatics, so I picked a 'low-key' place we both enjoy," Jumin explains, "I know I've done this before but I want to do it properly for you. I was a bit too hasty the first time." He chuckles, and you do as well.

Jumin sighs and gathers your hands in his as he begins his speech.

"In all of my life, I haven't had a single chance to experience what everyone was so obsessively celebrating. I deemed myself as someone who wouldn't need or even was worthy to experience such an emotion, but I was undeniably wrong when I met you, [ ]. This love I feel for you was something that I never knew I could create with my own heart."

Jumin kneels down while grabbing a ring box from his coat pocket. Your eyes widen in shock and happiness. You knew where this was leading with the heartfelt speech and balloons, but it still surprised you all the same.

"The time we spent together was 3 years, but my love, let me be a little more greedy. I want it all. I want us to share all of our days, our months, and our years together if you give me the chance to. "

"Please marry me, [ ]"

—————————————————————————————————

The two of you lovingly stare at each other's eyes. All of your friends and family sit waiting for your vows. You squeeze his hands to get the nervousness off you, and you start; with a smile and adoring eyes focusing solely on the man beside you.

"I love the sassy, adorable, and stoic you I've grown to know. I love the vulnerable self who you hate the most, Jumin. And I will always continue to love the person who stands beside me. I adore each side you show me, and I can't wait to spend my life seeing more. How I found you in this time, in this place, even in this reality is an absolute miracle."

You cup your hand on his cheek, and he immediately melts in deeper. Both of you gaze into each other's eyes, caught up with each other's vows and forgetting the world around you.

Summary: What goes on in a Saturday with your husband? Apparently, it’s only giggles, kisses, and cuddles. That sweet, domestic life is really the best.

You were the first to wake, of course. Your eyes open to a familiar scene: golden hues lighting up the room and everything is comfortably still. You shuffle around in the bed, and a tired groan fills the room. A hand around your waist tightens ever so slightly. You chuckle, feeling your back pressed further to Vyn’s chest as he loosely holds your waist. You feel him pulling you in closer, his head dipping into the back of your neck. It feels wonderful. 

You turn over to face him and he doesn’t move. You know Vyn feels you staring, but you know how he greets you in the morning: a hefty, cute sigh comes from his mouth, and you smile widely. His breath makes his messy bangs fall down his face. The most serene you've seen him. It's the best view in the morning, you think. 

You reach over and kiss him and he stirs. You roll out of the bed and you hear Vyn groan once more. 

“Sleep tight, love, I’ll make breakfast,” You say, knowing he doesn’t hear you. 

You freshen up and walk downstairs to the kitchen, and whip out some scrambled eggs. You hear the sink running upstairs as you serve the crumbly mess next to slices of toasted and buttered bread. 

“Smells wonderful, my dear,” Vyn expresses as he walks down and sits next to you. 

“So what do you want to do today?” You ask with a mouthful of eggs and toast. 

“Whatever that allows me to cuddle you, honestly. I was rudely interrupted moments ago, and my love, you have to pay damages.”

“Hmm, you’ll have to speak to my lawyer.”

“How cold.” 

“It’s a high price that you’re asking. That’s why, dear.”

“I believe your standards are too high.”

“And I believe your accusation is terribly unreasonable,” you laugh.

“And I think your eggs are too watery.” 

You gasp, dramatically put a hand over your heart. Your face exaggeratingly scrunches up in faked hurt and Vyn chuckles. 

“I love how you are.”

You rest your face out of bewilderment. How out of the blue-

“I love you, too,” is all you could say. 

Vyn takes the two plates. You’re stuck in your seat, still mulling over his words. It makes you feel warm, and a much delayed blush spreads over your cheeks. Even after all these years, you still get so flustered when he does things like this. 

As he sets down the plates, Vyn suggests that the two of you go to the new bakery that just opened near Stellis University. Deserts after breakfast are always welcomed whatever the occasion, he says, smiling softly as he sees your red glow. 

You quickly say yes, and the both of you went on you way. 

• ° • ° • ° •

The bakery was very stylish with its interior decoration. It seems like a new “hip” place for the students to get their breakfast. All goods were very social media worthy. 

You got a cute cupcake decorated with frosting in the shape of a sunflower. The bright, yellow sugary petals remind you of the golden roses Vyn helped you plant a while back. The garden back at home has grown to be similar to a large botanical garden, but one that only specializes in flowers. Vyn’s hobby of gardening has grown on you ever since you two first dated. Vyn looks at your smiling face and can’t help but smile as well. 

“I’m glad you like this place, love. I’ll buy some of their cupcakes for you when I come home from teaching, if you’d like,” Vyn offers as you keep staring at the floral cupcake. 

“No, it’s fine,” you respond, “The sunflower just reminded me of our garden, that’s all.”

You remain quiet for a while, thinking about it even more. 

“Speaking of our garden, how about we go to the plant nursery? There should be more variety than roses in the new flower bed you’ve been planning, Vyn,” you suggest, knowing what to do for the day. 

“As you wish, darling. I think our garden will be the next Blossoms Garden with your touch.”

You feel the heat rising to your face once again. 

• ° • ° • ° •

The two of you spent the day gardening, which was not an unusual activity the two of you would do together. Rather, you think the garden is now a personal project that the two of you worked together on. It is really amazing how much of an influence Vyn had on you to encourage you to be messy with the Earth as you are prone to be called a “Neat Freak.”

At long last, the both of you head inside when the golden glow of the sunset signifies the end of the day.

Vyn takes you by the hand and leads you upstairs to clean up. As soon as the both of you two are done changing into your pajamas, he takes you by the hand and leads you downstairs to the living room. For what, you don’t know, but as soon as he walks to the gramophone, you light up. He places your song on the record player, and the sweet waltz plays immediately. 

He offers his hand as he curtseys to you. 

“For old time’s sake, my love, will you dance with me?”

The now pink and blue colors mixed with orange light shine through the windows as you accept Vyn’s hand. It reminds you of the first dance at your wedding, seeing how the colors of the sky are exactly the same as the sky on your wedding day. Vyn twirls you around and you feel the piano notes swelling. You giggle, and his smile widens. It’s so wonderful. 

The two of you waltz together, still remembering the moves you practiced 7 years ago. You both are silent, but the gaze between the two of you is so loud that the music fades out into the background. Vyn looks at you with so much warmth as you do to him. 

Warning: Gaslighting, demeaning language, controlling behavior, and manipulation. Thank you.

Can be read as platonic yandere, but both ways work.  

Summary: You’re an adventurer all exhausted from your travels because of your bad luck with camping out. After a little mishap, the young master of Dawn Winery offers you a place to stay in his mansion.

You love traveling. It’s why you became an adventurer in the first place. Seeing new lands were some of life’s greatest experiences and meeting new people is part of its charm. Each place you explored: Liyue Harbor, Luhua Pool, Dihua Marsh, Qingce Village, etc. filled you with wonder from the second you arrived and to the moment you left. 

But adventuring wasn’t always wonderful as you thought it was. Sight-seeing is fun and all, but the living conditions were not exactly... favorable. You dread your fate when you see the sun sets, because you know what happens. The tent you carry never keeps out the wind despite checking for holes numerous of times. The nights are never peaceful because without fail, a deranged hilichurl comes out from nowhere. Resting in an inn isn’t a possible choice since each bed you take, without fail, is a bed with bed bugs. You’d take the hilichurls every night over being in a frenzy, itchy state. It’s wild out there. 

However, by random chance, when you were just starting your adventure in Mondstat, you ran into the owner of Dawn Winery and the head of the Ragnvindr Family who offered you a place to stay. 

Or rather, he ran into your poor, pathetic tent. 

It all happened so suddenly. You set up your tent and went to gather some firewood. Upon returning, you see your tent smashed in, with a red-head scratching his head in worry. The poles that held up the cloth were smashed to pieces, with the cloth itself pierced and torn by the splinters. The tent was barely supporting itself and each breath the wind takes in its direction makes it tremble like a hurt animal. It was such a pitiful sight. Good thing you anticipated this. 

“I truly sorry, I just bumped into it and…”

“It’s alright. This happens a lot. I have an extra tent!”

The firey-haired man introduced himself as Diluc Ragnvindr and you realize who he was as soon as he said his name. The person who has a near monopoly on Mondstat’s liquor business, or so you’ve heard. You did not anticipate this. 

“You’re welcome to stay at the Dawn Winery as long as you please,” Diluc offered, “Sincerely, it would not rest easy on my conscious to not make it up to you. To leave someone in such a terrible state, it would surely weigh down on me.” 

Ouch, but fair point. You were hesitant to accept, but a well-maintained mansion must be better than your average inn. The sun was coming down soon, and fireflies are starting to blink. You looked at him with a smile. “If it doesn’t bother you, I’ll just stay for a day.”

The first night you spent, it was like sleeping on a cloud. Your feet didn’t get cold and you slept like a baby. Surprisingly, you had no bites whatsoever when you woke. There were no interruptions, and your sleep was full of peace. Never had you ever woken up not sleep deprived. It was blissful, truly blissful. You made plans to leave right after waking, but Diluc insisted you have some breakfast. The food was amazing. He suggested that right after, he’ll give you a personal tour and you happily agreed. Then came lunch and the both of you ate at Good Hunter. Then soon came night and Diluc insisted you spend another night at the mansion. The man has a good tongue, so you once again agreed. 

• ° • ° • ° •

You were staying at the estate for a few weeks now, and in all of those weeks were spent in comfort. Diluc was generous enough to have Adelinde to make you meals each day. The time at the mansion were so luxurious compared to the nights you had roughing it out in the wild. All the while, you and Diluc were becoming good friends. 

“Why don’t you spend your days here, [ ]? It’s a lot better here than outside, don’t you think?” Diluc suggests once more; he jokes with you about this quite often. “Eating dinner like this, and sleeping safely and comfortably after we eat, isn’t it enticing?” 

“You’re right,” you laugh as you stab a piece of sticky honey roast Adelinde prepared, “it is a lot better here, but I think I explored all of Mondstat with you already. I think my next trip would be to Inazuma.”

His face visibly darkens. You didn’t see it. 

“Inazuma..?” Diluc trails off, his tone confused.

“Yes, I’m thinking of visiting Watatsumi Island. I heard it’s magnificently beautiful there.” You chew on your bite, and look up at Diluc. He has a soft smile on his face, and you smile back. 

“Yes, I’m sure, but the environment is quite unforgiving there. Even more so than Mondstat, [ ]. It wouldn’t be wise to camp out in such a place with your... unfortunate condition.”

“Ouch, but that is true," you say as you swallow your bite. "You’ve been to Inazuma before? Is it really dangerous as you say?”

“Terribly so, I’m afraid. I’ve traveled around Inazuma once to do foreign exports prior to the Sakoku Decree. Inazuma was merciless against my traveling group. Monsters appeared thrice as more as compred to Mondstat, and the weather was always terribly cold since the land was surrounded by water.” 

Your eyes widen as you hear Diluc recall his travels to the islands. ”Inazuma was harsh even to you? That’s absolutely terrible!” 

“Which is why I suggest you give up your trip to the islands.” 

“But it’s nothing like I haven’t done before. I’ve been through worse, so I think I can make it through.”

“Please, reconsider. Remember how your tent crumbled with my mere touch? Imagine how pitiful it would hold up once you set up in Inazuma. Your bad luck will intensify if you go. I insist, [ ], it’s not a good decision. ” 

“Diluc, I’m grateful for your concern, but I believe I can handle it. Trust me.”

Diluc sighs and crosses his arms. “Fine. I’ll make some.. arrangements for you.”

You both finish your meal and turn in for the night. It’ll be your last night in such a comfortable bed.  You’re truly going to miss the Dawn Winery. It was the first night that you had trouble sleeping ever since staying in the mansion, but it was purely because of your own excitement for Inazuma. 

Somehow, you drifted off into a deep slumber and woke up bright and early. You practically jumped out of bed once your eyes opened, but a clinking sound starts as soon as you move. Looking down to your ankle, there’s a metal cuff with a long chain. You fiddle with the cuff, but it’s useless. Changing your focus to the chain connected to our ankle, you follow long trail that leads to another cuff secured around the bedpost. 

“Hello?!” You yell out. Nobody answers.

The chain is long enough to reach the bathroom on the other side of the room. Unfortunately for you, it’s too short to reach the door out of this room. 

“Hey Adelinde? There’s a chain holding me down! The door is locked too! Adelinde! Diluc?!” you scream out, there’s something wrong, and you begin to panic. Soft footsteps tread the carpet outside the door. 

“Adelinde, I can’t reach the door! I’m chained to the bedpost!” 

The door opens, and you see your friend’s red-dusk hair before his face. 

“I’m sorry to say this, [ ], but you can’t leave. It’s too dangerous for you.”

“Wait, you can’t be serious.” You scoff. “What are you talking about?”

“[ ], you’re too reckless for Inazuma. Do you even realize that? I care too much about you to just throw yourself into danger like this!” “Diluc are you crazy?! You can’t just tie me to a bed because you’re worried about me!” 

“It’s necessary. You’re just too stubborn for your own good,” Diluc’s eyes harden. He looks intimidating. “I have to ensure your safety.”

“You have no obligation to ‘ensure my safety.’ I can manage fine before I even met you!” You’re moving your hands expressively. It’s unfathomable that your friend could ever do this to you.

“I need to because I care about you, [ ].”

“...”

Warning: Yandere Themes. Vulnerable mindset, Self-deprecation, hints of a past kidnapping, hints of torturing, and stockholm syndrome. Beware. Thank you.

Summary: You lost your wedding ring, you stupid idiot. Childe is coming home soon. WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU GONNA DO JFHSKDXSDFH—

Holy fuck.

Holy shit. Oh god no. Shit shit shit!

You lost your wedding ring. The ring that symbolized your cherished love for each other for the past 4 years! Out of all things you’ve lost, which is a lot to say the least, the one thing that you should’ve kept safe is gone.

Oh god, he’s going to kill you and dump you in the river at noon when he comes home from work.

When did you lose it? Was it the gardening? The cooking? The laundry? You remember fiddling with it when you were watering the tulips though. The gleam of the gem shined brightly when you were washing your hands in the kitchen, you know it. The laundry?

Feet dash into the bedroom. Neatly folded clothes were stacked in the laundry basket, still not put away. You seize the clothes, shaking each garment to see if a golden band would fall out.

No ring. 

Hold on, you cleaned the living room before you folded the clothes. Gosh your stupid memory will be the death of you. It has to be there!

You checked under the coffee table, the couch, and the cabinets. Nothing. Moved the books around on the shelves. Nothing. Pulled out the cushions and shoved your hands in the cracks. Wait a sec—!! 

It’s a single coin of mora. Still no ring.

You tidy the living room again. Back to square one: How the heck are you gonna fix this? The anxiety is creeping on you. There’s sweat drops on your forehead. You’re beginning to panic. But an idea struck you. 

You should get a replacement. But how am I gonna hide my ring finger from him until it arrives? Not to mention the big chunk that will be missing from our savings...

I’ll just buy him another ring! I’ll make an excuse that our rings are so worn down that we need new ones. Like renewing our vows! Yes, that’ll make sense and it’s not suspicious at all...

Who are you kidding? That’s too damn obvious.  

You search throughout the morning. Every nook, every cranny, every mouse hole in the walls was not left unchecked, but it was no use, that ring is gone for good. You check the time: 12:43pm. Uh oh.

You hear the front door open. It’s over, Just tell him. Assign yourself to your fate.

“I’m home!” Childe yells out.

You peek around the corner, shy and terrified. “Hello, honey.”you peep out. You walk towards him with your hands behind your back. Gosh this is nerve-racking. 

A smirk appears on his face. “Dearest, I didn’t know you were still so shy around me. The honeymoon phase is still going on huh?” He laughs at his joke. Gosh, your stomach is not feeling itself right now. He’s in a good mood too..

“Uuhhhh... not exactly, I have to talk with you about something important. I kinda messed up big time,” You blurt out, not even letting him set down his jacket and bag on the high chair like he always does. 

“What happened?” Childe asked, his eyebrows pinched together, eyes turning dark. Your anxiety is picking up. 

“I....” Your voice is stuck from the stress, “I...” Just tell him! He’ll give you a lesser punishment for confessing! Just tell him!!

“IlostmyweddingringandIdon’tknowhowwhereitwentsoobviouslyIretracedmystepsbutIlookedalloverthehouseforitandIevencheckedthecouchesbutitwasn’tthereandI’msoterriblysorrythatIlostmyweddingring,IknowitwasimportantandIhatemyselfforlosingsuchanimportantthingcouldyoueverforgivemeChilde?”

“You lost your wedding ring?” He summarized, trying to understand your jumbled confession. Childe knows you so well to be able to understand the demon spell you were chanting. He’s gotten pretty good at decoding the words you say during your voice-cracking, breath-choking, hands-flailing, panic-stricken state.

Childe sets down his bag and pulls you into his arms, squeezing you. He pats your hair down, which calms you right down, but your tears still keep falling.

“[ ] it’s ok, love.”

You refuse to believe him. He’s so mad at you right now.

“No! I lost our wedding ring! Our wedding ring, Childe!” You scream out, using his shoulder to cry on. You’re really so stupid, it’s unbelievable. This is why you can’t do anything. Gosh, why are you like this? “It’s a symbol of our love and I lost it!"

Childe rubs your back and kisses your hair. “Honey, look at me.”

You raise your head. Your faces are close. He could see the tears slowing making its way down your cheek. 

“It’s ok because that’s just it, love, just a symbol.”

“What do you mean? Why aren’t you mad at me?” You squeak out. The tears are making your voice crack. What is he on about again? 

He holds your face in his palm, his thumb wiping a falling tear from your eyes. Childe’s eyes were gentle, so, so gentle. He’s comforting you. Childe really is too good for you. 

“Honey, the symbol of our love could be anything: a painting, a song, or even those damn tulips you love so much. Maybe even more than me,” he grumbles out of jealousy, but the smile on his lips and the light in his eyes say otherwise.  You lightly laugh at him. Your breath is evening out slowly. Just the tone of his voice relaxes you, it’s amazing. 

“It doesn't matter what it is. Only the meaning matters to me. Even if you lost it, the symbol’s meaning is still there. It’s always been there, hun. You love me, and I love you. We are still bounded together even if you don’t have that symbol anymore.” 

You show a smile at him as your heart warms up from his words. “You’re making me swoon for you again, Childe.”

This time, Childe laughs at you. “That’s good.”

The two of you chuckle together, still wrapped in each other’s arms.

“I thought you would be mad at me, and we’d have a really big fight.” You explain, “I thought you are going to punish me again, even lock me up in that place.” 

Just thinking about that makes you shiver. Your anxiety is coming back, but Childe rubbing your back disperses it instantly. He knows how you feel about it. 

“Losing a ring sucks, but you’re much better than you were before, so this isn’t something we’d get heated up for a while. We are bounded for life after all. There’s no escaping me.”

You laugh. “Is that a threat?”

“You betcha.”

You laugh even more. It’s funny how your sense of humor matches his as the years go by. “I love you, Childe.”

“I love you more, [ ]. Why don’t we get new rings? Ours are old anyway, 4 years made quite a dent on them don't you think? Liyue has new styles out that are far better than ours, in my opinion. I’ll bring some catalogues for you to see, hmm?” Childe waits for your answer. You smile at him.