Ayan

Hear me out WangXian Secret Baby AU!

No breakup WangXian separated for years. They tried to make LDR work but eventually it fell out. LWJ went abroad to study, WWX was left behind. WWX promised to follow him but it nvr happened. Years after, LWJ found a familiar place to an unfamiliar boy. LWJ wandered if this is how their kid would've looked like if they had one.

He heard WWX has moved on and got a family now. He didn't have the courage to confirm it...

I Was Downloading Gay Porn So My Uncle Sent Me To University

The place is hot, humid beyond acceptable, noisy—and chaotic. Overall, this place is not something Lan Wangji will be willing to visit let alone spend four years of university.

How did he end up in this place and why is he here if he looks like he will die any minute? Well, it could all be blamed on an ad that floated on Lan Wangji’s computer screen. Lan Wangji went home from school stressed and in a terrible mood. He wanted to let off some steam, but he is not the type to randomly hook up with anyone just because. He is a romantic and he has values, for your information. So, the only logical thing for him to do is to jerk off himself.

He set his bags down on the floor beside his bed. He reached his study desk in three big strides and logged in on his home computer. He quickly typed on his incognito browser the name of his favored gay pornography site. There might be something new and interesting to watch. He was browsing the landing page and did not find anything that piqued his interest, so he decided to type in his favorite keywords. What are those keywords? It stays between him and his browser, but there is nothing appropriate about it. 

Finally, a short video from a freshly made account popped out. From looking at the profile, the model wrote that he was a newbie and exploring his sexuality. He proceeded to say that he was sure he was straight until a few months ago before graduating high school, but an accident with his best friend’s hunk brother made him rethink his beliefs. Lan Wangji had snorted at that because that was how he also had his gay awakening. A half-naked Nie Mingjue walked out of his brother’s room looking for Xichen, droplets of water dripping from his hair down to his hard abs. Lan Wangji ran back to his room as fast as he could and had the most mindblowing wank of his young life with the image of a wet Nie Migjue on top of him.

He continued reading the profile for a few more seconds and decided that the person was interesting. As his profile described, he will be exploring things by himself and with the help of a friend from time to time. He is also asking anyone who would come across his profile and videos to be a little nicer—leave some helpful tips and not comment if they have nothing nice to say. 

Lan Wangji clicked on the sole video on the profile. The video was tagged as amateur—which is fine. The video quality is not grainy and the audio is clear enough to make out that it was filmed in a bedroom. The lighting is perfect and it helps the viewer to put their focus on the subject in the frame. A long-legged young man wearing the tiniest red shorts Lan Wangji had ever seen sat on a gaming chair. It perfectly accentuated his curvy ass and delicious thighs. 

His tiny shorts were paired with a cropped black hoodie that rode up to his torso when he raised his arms to fix the camera angle. Lan Wangji never understood why people wear cropped hoodies, it did not make sense to wear something that will warm you but does not warm your tummy. But now, something clicked in his mind. Yes, cropped hoodies are appealing and possibly might be one of the best things modern fashion has trended.

The internet connection was a bit sporadic today for some reason. Lan Wangji decided to hit the download button for the video; he did not want his wank session to be interrupted by anything. After a minute, the video was at 69% percent completion when the door to his room suddenly opened. He forgot to lock his door.

The doorway offers a clear view of his computer screen and its second screen. Lan Wangji turned his head at a break-neck speed and locked eyes with his uncle. His uncle who was the strictest person Lan Wangji had ever met had the strongest opinion about any debauchery. If he finds out one of his precious golden boys was downloading gay porn and jerks off to it, it will definitely send him straight to the ancestors. With his heart thumping loudly in his chest, Lan Wangji stood up and raised his hands to his uncle.

“Uncle, please, I can explain. Whatever you saw I can explain it.” He is close to crying, his tears are dangerously gathering in his tear ducts, and his mind is running a mile a minute. To his utter disbelief and confusion instead of getting the sternest scolding of his life, his uncle has given him an approving look. “Wangji, I did not know you had already chosen a university to attend. Yiling is far from home and mostly attended by working class and peasant children, but I think its climate may help you shape into a better man. I am proud you want to attend a state university and immerse yourself with the lower classes. This is a good experience to broaden your understanding of the world,” his uncle finished.

What university? 

What Yiling? 

What social classes?

What immersion?

What?

What?

What?

“We will talk about this more when your brother comes home for family dinner this weekend. Finish signing up for the university and send me the confirmation. I will send a letter to the university chancellor, he was a good friend.” His uncle gave him one last approving nod before closing the door. 

He was left there stumped for a minute before he was able to move. Once his uncle’s shadow could not be seen from the gap under his door and his footsteps ceased to be heard, Lan Wangji dropped on his chair. He did not know where his uncle got the idea that he had already chosen a university but he was still thankful his uncle did not call him out for going on a porn site and illegally downloading stuff. 

He lost all his desire to jerk himself off, the anxiety of five minutes earlier had exhausted him too much. With a sigh of relief, he turned back to his computer screen and saw the signup page for a university in Yiling. Lan Wangji did not know whether he would laugh or cry. Who would have known that a pop-up advertisement would save him from being outed to his uncle?

He closed the browser, the video he just downloaded completely forgotten by now and shut down his computer. He slumped on his table for a minute, then rolled to his adjacent bed to sleep. It was an exhausting day, when sleep claimed Lan Wangji, he skipped dinner and did not dream of anything.

When the weekend family dinner came, Lan Wangji had completely forgotten about the incriminating porn video on his computer. He had also forgotten that his uncle told him his application to Yiling University would be the highlight of this week’s family dinner. A big mistake.

His older brother gave him a proud smile when he opened the door to him and his boyfriend. Yes, boyfriend, because unlike Lan Wangji—Xichen had been openly gay since high school. At first, it scared him of what it would mean for their family of three but Lan Qiren assured his brother that he would still love him even if he was not happy of his choices. It helped a lot that Xichen was an achiever and of good moral character. It also helped that his boyfriend—Nie Mingjue—was from a good family and a respectable young man himself. It took some time for Lan Qiren to adjust to it, but all-in-all everything went well for them two. 

Lan Wangji, however, is a different case. He has not proven himself enough yet—he thinks. He achieved accolades academically, in his chosen sports, and music. He was praised by most people, or hated by those who envy him. He was another golden boy like his brother. A part of him is scared that his uncle might not understand him or take him seriously if reveals himself now. So, he decided to tell his uncle once he graduated college and started a stable career.

“Wangji, I heard you chose to attend a state university. I am proud of you didi!” Xichen exclaimed once they sat down at the dinner table. “Xichen, don’t get excited too much. You are scaring Wangji,” Nie Mingjue chided but also could not keep off a proud grin on his face. “Ah, nonsense! Wangji-didi knows I am just happy. I always worry that you would not take it upon yourself to explore but here you are. Mingjue, when has my didi grown?” Xichen kept on teasing.

Lan Wangji cursed inwardly. How would he tell his family that he never planned on attending a faraway university? They are all proud of him now; he would hate that he had to break their expectations.

“Gege, about that, I’m thinking of not going there anymore,” he declared to his family.

“Wangji?”

“Oh, didi!”

Lan Qiren and Lan Xichen both exclaimed at the same time.

“Wangji, what do you mean? Explain yourself,” his uncle hurriedly told him. He could not tell them that it was only a misunderstanding between him and his uncle, but he also could not tell them how they came to this misunderstanding. So, he thought of the best thing to say that he knew was not a lie but also not entirely true.

“Uncle, gege, I changed my mind,” he started. “I thought about it and I decided to stay. Uncle does not have anyone to live with him, and I did not think it would be nice to leave uncle alone,” he finished.

Lan Wangji was proud of himself and his answer. He gave himself an imaginary tap on the back for coming up with an acceptable excuse. Now, his family would not be disappointed.

“Oh, Wangji. I totally understand your qualms. Before I moved out, I also thought about it hundreds of times. It was a hard decision, but I realized I also had to spread my wings and fly on my own. Didi, would it not be possible to change your mind?” His brother is really sweet and understanding, and he thankful for it.

“Gege, I think there would be a better time to do the same, but not now. My time will come,” he reassured his brother.

Lan Xichen turned to Nie Mingjue with a pleading look, but he only lightly shook his head and squeezed their hands together. Nie Mingjue also had a younger brother, but unlike Wangji, he was more outgoing and could make friends more easily.

“Wangji, your brother is only concerned about you. I hope you understand. But whatever you choose, we will always support you,” he said with a reassuring brotherly voice.

“Thank you, Mingjue-gege. I appreciate that.” Lan Wangji sincerely said.

The table was quiet for a few more moments, and everyone was in comfortable silence before Lan Qiren broke it. “Wangji, I understand your concern, and I am grateful you think of me. However, as your brother pointed out, it is time for you to be independent. If I was the only thing holding you back into staying, let me reassure you, I will be fine.”

“But Uncle, it would not be right to leave you,” Lan Wangji protested, but before he could continue Lan Qiren held his palm up to silence him.

“Wangji, it truly warms my heart that you grew into a thoughtful young man. I aged but I am not old, at least not that much. I can take care of myself just fine. You are young, but not too young. It is high time for you to make a name for yourself. Make me proud, Wangji. But do not hesitate to come home when it all becomes too much. I am here and this house will always welcome you back.” 

“Uncle,” Lan Wangji was not able to continue what he was going to say because he had already burst into tears. This was the first time their uncle was openly affectionate to them. His uncle was not cruel but he was also not the type to openly express emotions with words. For the first time in a while, the family hugged each other.

Thinking about all of that back, Lan Wangji resigned himself to attending Yiling University. This place is far from what he was used to—it was everything Guss was not. The streets were bustling with life. There were shops and vendors everywhere. The people were friendly and smiles all the time. The nightlife was also bustling, the city never seem to sleep at all. It was a big adjustment for him.

He walked into the university gate and bumped into someone. He was annoyed, why would people run around and not look at where they were going? “Sorry, sorry, sorry! Are you hurt? I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to bump into you!” The man apologized to him and checked him out for any hurt.

“It’s okay, I’m fine,” Lan Wangji said. “I’m really sorry. I was already late for class and this was just the first day. By the way, I’m Wei Ying—a sophomore. I can walk you to your class, how about that?” The man, Wei Ying, offered to him with a blinding smile.

“Sure, I would love that, I’m Lan Wangji.” Attending a faraway state university might not be too bad, Lan Wangji thought to himself while Wei Ying was chattering with him as they walked into the university building.

Inspired by this Tweet

But almost a week ago, I came across a new story. I said, maybe it is time to expand my horizons. Although, of course, this is not a goodbye to WangXian and BingQiu. I am just merely trying out new things.

And I must tell you, The Disabled Tyrant's Pet Palm Fish made me giggle to myself. The thought process of the leads and the antics of the characters hooked me. I'm only in the early chapters but I think it is safe to say that I am genuinely enjoying this one.

Wei Wuxian is exhausted. He is still recovering from his complicated delivery of little a-Yuan about two months ago; Juggling between being a single parent to a newborn and trying to make ends meet, he is left stretched. But he got to do what he got to do, for him and his little a-Yuan.

a-Yuan is sleeping upstairs, safe and secured in his crib inside their bedroom. Wei Wuxian moved into this neighborhood about five months ago. It was not the best, not affluent like where he grew up with the Jiangs but it was good. The people are friendly and welcoming, especially the Wens next door. They were nothing but helpful to him during his pregnancy, even more after his unexpected delivery. 

a-Yuan is not supposed to be born until early spring but Wen Qing had warned him about it early on. It had scared him a great deal but he did not really want to terminate the pregnancy, he is ready to face anything life would throw at him at this point. Whatever happens, Wei Wuxian will face it once he gets there.

Wei Wuxian is looking forward to bed as well, relieving himself of his latest freelance projects. He is still too fragile to try and find a job outside of his safe zone. The freelance work pays enough to support him and a-Yuan for now, but soon, he would have to move on to a better career to support a-Yuan.

After turning off his devices, he walked out of his designated home office on the first floor. He grabbed a cup of tea in his small kitchenette to bring upstairs before checking on a-Yuan. Maybe out of exhaustion, he did not notice the person sitting on the couch in his living room until he walked past them.

His whole body suddenly froze and he could no longer take another step. Afraid of who he would see when he turns his head, he kept his eyes on the stairs going upstairs. He forced every negative thought out of his head, he have to think about good things. Things that would not hurt him, things that means warmth, comfort, and safety.

Strong arms wrapped around his middle and pulled him against a broad sturdy chest. This person is very warm, unlike the bitter cold brought by the winter snow outside. He is warm yet he exudes neither comfort nor security. Wei Wuxian is sure that if this person is not embracing him, he would have doubled over already with how weak his legs had become.

“Wei Ying. Found you.” The man whispered to his ears, his warm breath grazing over Wei Wuxian’s skin.

“How?” should he really be asking this question? Is it not obvious? Wherever he runs, he would catch up. Wherever he tries to hide, he would be found. Caught.

“I have my ways. I told you, I would not let you go.” The man replied to him in the most serious voice laced with quite an irritation but also a hint of adoration.

“Bet you did. You always have your ways.” He turned to face the intruder, piercing golden eyes stared back to his cloudy silver ones. A humorless chuckle was pulled out from his throat. He feels like the world is closing in on him pushing him to the tiniest corner of his new home. Or soon to be former home.

“Come back to Gusu with me.” Ah, there it is again. That not request to come back to Gusu. If he could, Wei Wuxian would erase Gusu from every existing map in the world. When he first heard that from him, he did not take it too seriously. A big mistake. A great one.

“Ah, Lan Zhan, can I not? I like my garden here. Have you seen my backyard? I started a garden there. It does not have anything on it now because of the snow but I swear, it was nice. I plan to plant a new vegetable patch once the spring comes.” Wei Wuxian knows this will not work, but he had to shoot his shot. There is no escaping Lan Wangji, he could only hope for the best.

“Wei Ying—” Lan Wangji’s voice came out strained, he knows he is making him angry but what could he do?

“Lan Zhan! No, please, I really like my garden here. In Gusu, we do not have a garden. You live in an apartment building and I am always inside that room. I do not want to go back to that room, please. Can I just stay here? Please?” His baby’s cry broke Wei Wuxian away from the not-so-conversation he is having with Lan Wangji.

a-Yuan’s cry must have caught Lan Wangji off-guard that he loosened his grip on Wei Wuxian’s waist. Wei Wuxian broke free and immediately ran upstairs pushing the door to the nursery open. “a-Yuan? What’s the matter, baby? Are you alright?” Wei Wuxian frantically searched for the light switch with his hands on the walls.

“Oh, no, no, no. Baobei you’re fine. You’re safe, baba’s here for you.” Wei Wuxian soothed a-Yuans cries with his sweet voice while rubbing his back. The baby must have felt something was off with him. He read somewhere that newborn babies have a strong emotional bond with their mothers and they could sense feelings. Heavy footsteps made their way upstairs, so heavy, they made the wooden staircase creak with its force.

Wei Wuxian is still soothing a-Yuan’s tears when Lan Wangji entered the room, “Wei Ying—”

“Ah! Lan Zhan, I'm sorry, I know we are still talking but a-Yuan cried and I can’t leave him alone so I had to leave you downstairs. I know you don’t like it when you are interrupted, I’m really sorry. But a-Yuan needed me—”

“Wei Ying. The baby?”

“Yes! Yes! The baby! Uhmm, a-Yuan! Right, ahm—” Wei Wuxian does not know how to proceed from here. Lan Wangji did not know about a-Yuan at all. At least from what he knows so far, Lan Wangji is clueless about who a-Yuan is.

“Wei Ying, speak properly.” A command. A command he could not dare to disobey now that he is cornered with a-Yuan. He does not really have a way out, does he? “Ah, Lan Zhan, a-Yuan is… a-Yuan is my… my baby.”

“Your baby.” Lan Wangji reiterated. His eyes narrowed in a-Yuan’s direction assessing how the baby looks like. He could not really tell the baby’s features from where he is standing. Wei Wuxian is carrying the baby in his arms protectively, all he could see is the bundle of cloth.

“Yes, my baby. Our. Baby.” Wei Wuxian made sure to accentuate those two words out of his mouth. He has to make Lan Wangji understand a-Yuan is not a threat that needs to be eliminated. 

“Ours.” Lan Wangji reiterated again. Wei Wuxian could see the gears in Lan Wangji’s head moving. “You left.”

“Yes, I did. I left. But I have a reason!” Wei Wuxian had reasons, of course. He did not leave per se, he escaped. He ran away.

Lan Wangji is still standing there in the middle of the room not making a move to grab Wei Wuxian or the baby. His eyes darted between Wei Wuxian and the bundle of cloth in his arms. “Would you like to see a-Yuan? You could hold him if you want. You’re his a-die.” Wei Wuxian offered to Lan Wangji.

Lan Wangji immediately crossed the short distance between him and Wei Wuxian. He stopped in front of them looking unsure of what to do next. “Here, hold him right here. Support his neck, yes, that’s correct. Be gentle with him, don’t jostle him too much he is a light sleeper. There you go, right, just like that.” Wei Wuxian carefully passed the bundle to Lan Wangji’s arms, giving him instructions on how to hold a-Yuan.

He could see the awe on Lan Wangji’s face. Good. The sooner Lan Wangji believes him, the better. a-Yuan would have better chances in life this way. He could see how Lan Wangji’s eyes widen a fraction when a-Yuan’s eyes opened to look at him. They were mirrors of each other, staring at each other’s souls.

It had scared Wei Wuxian when he saw a-Yuan had the same golden eyes his other father had. Their faces are so similar that the only thing that made a-Yuan physically attributed to him is his hair. Unlike Lan Wangji’s straight black hair, he had Wei Wuxian’s wavy hair. It is not obvious now, but anyone could see it if they would look closer.

“Give him to me, I’ll put him back to his crib. Let us talk outside, we would disturb a-Yuan here.” Lan Wangji did not say anything and did as Wei Wuxian said.

They went out of a-Yuan’s nursery and Wei Wuxian led him to the room next door, to Wei Wuxian’s bedroom. Wei Wuxian walked to the bed and sat down but Lan Wangji remained by the door. For a man who had forced everything on Wei Wuxian’s life, it is an oddity to see him hovering by the door.

Wei Wuxian patted the space beside him to beckon Lan Wangji to his bed. “Lan Zhan, please sit down. I’ll explain everything to you.”

“You left not less than a year ago.” It is not a question, it sounded like an accusation.

“Yeah, I did. I discovered I was pregnant and I got scared, so, I left.” Not a lie at all. It is true, he was shit scared for his dear life and the baby growing inside him. He does not know how Lan Wangji would react and he does not want to test how he will react once he finds out. 

“I did not know if you want a baby—” again, not a lie. “I thought it would be best if I leave—” escape should be the proper word but he is sure poor word choice would not do him good.

“And I want to breathe fresh air, Lan Zhan! Fresh air is good for the baby! I only want what is best for the baby…” the last part came in as a soft whisper. The other half is also true. He wants what is best for the baby, no matter how that will end. 

“Come back home to Gusu with me, Wei Ying. Let’s go home. You’ve been away far too long.”

“Lan Zhan! I told you I don’t want to go back to Gusu! I like my garden here!” Wei Wuxian held Lan Wangji’s hands on his own. A great feeling of dread grew in him. “Wei Ying—”

“Lan Zhan, no! Please! Pots are different. I can’t stay there anymore, please. Just let me stay here!” Wei Wuxian could no longer control the sob that erupted from him. Tears burst as he continued to plead. It’s also the truth, he could not take it to go back to that dammed place. He could not continue living as a prisoner.

“Wei Ying, home is in Gusu—” Lan Wangji held his wrists tighter, a signal that he should be obeyed.

“Lan Zhan, listen. We could stay here! We could make a home here. Please, just let me stay here. I like this place.” Wei Wuxian tried to plead once more with a resigned voice. He is tired and exhausted. He could not run away again. Not with a-Yuan’s fragile health. Lan Wangji would always find him. Catch him.

“Okay, let’s settle this tomorrow—” Lan Wangji said back to him, looking into his eyes intently.

“Lan Zhan, let's sleep. I'm tired.” Another truth.

Today is easily one of the most awful days Lan Zhan has had since he started working for his family’s company. One particular supplier, named Yao Chemicals, is causing delays with their production, asking for a raise in payment than what they signed in the contract. Ouyang Logistics had canceled their shipping in the name of maintenance. Why did they not inform them ahead of time? Lan Zhan does not want to find out but knows that he should.

As the Vice-President of the family-owned company, Lan Zhan is always on top of things. Thankfully, he has a diligent Operations General Manager who is willing to share the stress and burden of their work. He should give Lou Qinyang an extra bonus and longer vacation time next year. A ship cruise does not sound bad, it could also be her late honeymoon with her wife.

The clock hits eight, everyone has already left the company building since six saves for him, the maintenance, and the security. Lan Zhan loosened his necktie and opened two top buttons of his dress shirt. He should head home, too, it’s closing his usual bedtime and today’s stress must be at least washed away.

On the drive home, he rounded a corner and saw a cafe. It looks warm and cozy from its windows. The cafe has a combined rustic and bookish vibe in its interior design visible through its clear windows. There are only two tables occupied, a bonus that it is not crowded considering that it is near a business district.

Lan Zhan parked his car on the curbside and walked to the cafe. He surveyed the menu before going up to the counter manned by a timid-looking barista. “Hi, my name is Wen Ning. Welcome to Dafen Cafe! What can I get you tonight?” The barista, Wen Ning, said.

“Hi. I’d have your Lavender Mint Tea. 50% sugar, please. Lukewarm temperature.” Don’t judge him, okay? Usually, Lan Zhan would drink his tea without any confectionery but this day was really a challenging one. He deserves some sweetness.

“Lavender Mint with 50% sugar. Lukewarm. Got that. Anything else? We have bread and pastries, too. If I could offer you some?”

Lan Zhan regarded the display shelf. The croissant does not look bad, it looks buttery and flaky. Maybe if he is having breakfast, he would get it, some other time maybe. The chocolate truffle cake and carrot cake also look heavenly. And there’s red velvet and sans rival, too. Too many choices!

“Mm. What can you recommend?” He asked Wen Ning instead because he was really having a hard time choosing. And he feels like the barista had been waiting for him for all eternity. It is best to finish their business now.

“Oh. oh… my recommendation. Uhm, I’d recommend the chocolate decadence cake if you like sweet stuff. But, if you are into fruity flavor, our strawberry shortcake is our best seller.”

“Mm. then I’d take that—” But before Wen Ning could confirm his order, the bells on the cafe door chimed. A loud voice and a whirlwind of a man also came into view.

“Wen Ning! I hope you saved me some of that strawberry shortcake because I really, really, really need it now!” The newcomer seems to be a regular if he is addressing the barista by his personal name. Lan Zhan could not help but take in the man’s features.

Tall and slender frame with a cinched waist. Wide childbearing hips partnered with the most plump-looking ass. Is it even possible for a man to look this breedable, Lan Zhan thinks? Maybe he could do research on that. His cropped pullover shirt slipped on one side showing his clear and smooth skin and deep collarbones. He is also wearing a paint-stained black sweatpants that perfectly highlights the delicious curves of his round ass. Long dark wavy hair tried in a messy bun. His face is sharp, yet he radiates softness with his tantalizing mercurial eyes. Lan Zhan is not sure if it is just the cafe’s warm lights reflecting on the man’s eyes that give him that impression but he is captivated nonetheless.

Lan Zhan shook his head a little, hoping to clear his mind of the shameless and unspeakable things it was conjuring at the moment. These thoughts are nowhere near appropriate, especially since it involves a total stranger. He did not notice that the stranger was already standing close to him at the counter.

“Hi, Ying-ge. Rough day? Sorry but the order for the last slice of the strawberry shortcake is already placed. I’ll make sure to save some for you tomorrow.” Wen Ning said to the man, Ying , and the man deflated. Lan Zhan did not know people could deflate, but he is seeing it now.

His beautiful pinkish lips pout on that reply, and Lan Zhan had made a creed to wipe that out of the man’s lips. A kiss would be a good way to erase the pout but would that not be too straightforward? Maybe he could start with something wholesome.

So, instead of jumping the man for a kiss, Lan Zhan said, “You should take it.” Well, he really likes to do the kissing, but he needs to be polite. His uncle had spent his prime teaching and instilling morals and ethics in him and his brother, which cannot go to waste. Maybe he would ask for the man’s name and his number, but that would be another challenge he would have to figure out. He hoped the other man would not decline the cake and give at least his name.

The other man turned to face him and gave him a blinding smile, “No, take it. It's yours, you could have it. Besides, you placed the order before I came in. Although, I think you just went ahead of me by 13 milliseconds. Not that I actually counted, but you know what I mean.” The other man said with a shrug. Truth be told, Lan Zhan does not actually think he should have the cake just because he finished speaking first. But whatever.

“No. You take it. I work nearby. I could get my fill tomorrow.”

“No. You want it now. It's yours—”

“Uhm. If none of you want to take the last slice, maybe you could just share with one another?” Lan Zhan perked up with the suggestion. Wen Ning, oh bless his soul! 

Ying’s face blushed a bright shade of red at that and averted his eyes from Lan Zhan to face the counter and pointed an accusatory finger at the barista. “Ning-di?! Are you trying to sell me? No… your poor gege could not take this—”

“I’m sorry. If you are uncomfortable with his suggestion, I will leave. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable—” Lan Zhan interrupted Ying’s speech and pushed down his earlier hopes. It is stupid to think someone would want to share a cake with him. Everyone avoids him like the plague, he is used to that, but this actually hurts more than he expected.

With a gasp, the other man faced him with serious face yet mischievous eyes, “Ahhh, No! You did not make me uncomfortable, silly! I’m just really like this—” He then turned to Wen Ning again and gestured for him to finish the order. “We'll take it! How about giving us two spoons? And please add mixed berries smoothie for me, too.”

Before Ying could pull out his wallet, Lan Zhan had already handed Wen Ning his card. “Such a generous gege! Tell me how much my share is later so I can pay you!” Ying said with a cheery tone. 

“No need. It’s on me. Let’s find a seat.” He really, really, really needs to find a seat now or else his legs will collapse. He does not know how managed to do it, but he did it. He has a date with the most beautiful person he has seen! Calling their first meeting a date might be a stretch but isn’t this how dates are?

“I’ll serve you your drinks later. Here’s the cake and your spoons. Enjoy your—” Lan Zhan is sure Wen Ning would say the word “date,” but Ying had cut him off with a thank you. He picked up the tray with both of his hands. Ying hooked his arms on his right arm and led him to a well-lit table with couches beside the window. He almost dropped the tray. Wasting the cake would be a shame.

Of course, as a gentleman, Lan Zhan waited for the other man to take a sit first. He set the cake and the forks down on the table, then placed the tray on the table next to theirs. 

“Sit.”

“ Yes! Right! Sit!” The man gave a small chuckle before taking his place. 

“We should take a seat—”

“We are already seated…” Another breathless chuckle came out of the man’s pretty mouth.

Before they could continue, Wen Ning came to their place to deliver their drinks. The other man eagerly sipped his smoothie, a white line of foam stained his upper lips. Lan Zhan is tempted to swipe his tongue on that to remove it. Before he knew it, he was already reaching for the other man and wiping it using his thumb. He thought he was possessed. He did not stop using his thumb to wipe the foam off but also sucked his thumb after.

The other man flushed at his actions and stared at him with parted lips. “Lan Zhan.” Introducing himself hopefully would salvage this not date . He could only hope he had not spoiled the mood yet.

“Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan ah—” his name sounded heaven from the other man’s mouth. He wants to hear him say his name again and again. Everyday. Until the moment he breathed his last breath. That’s a dream. “Yes, yes, your name is Lan Zhan!”

“ Yours?”

“Huh? Yours? Yes, yours! I mean—”

“Your name?” 

“Ha? Yes, right, yes, my name. What's my name?”

“ ....” There was a pregnant pause between them before the other man erupted into melodious laughter. His smile is beautiful, but his laughter sounds like heavenly fairies singing. He wants to hear more of that.

“Why am I asking you for my name? Silly! I'm Wei Ying!” He would cherish that name forever. He is already thinking of what to write in his wedding vows. A spring wedding sounds good. He should start looking for an events coordinator to set up the wedding.

“So, Lan-gege…”

“Er— I have an older brother.” Wei Ying’s eyes seemed to be delighted at that. Lan Zhan really hopes he is doing this right. He does not have much experience with dating. Actually, he has never been on a date before. The closest he had on a date was third-wheeling his brother on his dates with Nie Mingjue.

Right, he could use his observations from their dates to his advantage now. Hmmm, what does Nie Mingjue does to impress his brother? He had already paid for their snacks. What else? Movie tickets? Maybe they could catch the last full show. Flowers. Yes, flowers! Nie Mingjue always had flowers to give to Lan Xichen during their dates.  But shouldn’t the flowers come first before the food? Maybe he could sneak a quick message to Nie Mingjue to ask him for advice.

A small cough from in front of him called his attention back to his companion. He can’t help but stare at his pretty face and kind smile. “Uhm. Sorry. I’m not used to going on dates—” Oh no, he’s ruined it. This is not a date! How could he forget they were total strangers five minutes ago?

“So, is that what this is, Lan-er-gege? A date? You’re so straightforward! I didn’t take you for a flirt!” Lan Zhan hoped Wei Ying did not notice his ears blushing from his teasing. “Oh, hahaha. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to tease you too much! That would be rude of me!”

“I’m sorry, too. I did not mean to be presumptuous.”

“Nah. Nah. Nah. None of that! Well, we might have been total strangers earlier, but we could turn this into a date. Only if you want, tho! I will not force you into it!” And yes! Lan Zhan totally wants this to be a date badly.

“Only if Wei Ying also wants this to be our date.”

“So smooth, er-gege! Yes, I would love this to be our first date!”

And with that, they had their first date. He learned that Wei Ying is a freelance artist currently working on his main canvas for his first solo exhibit. He showed him samples from his portfolio, and everything was great. Wei Ying asked him if he could be his muse for his painting. Of course, Lan Zhan naturally agreed. Maybe he could also ask Lan Huan and Nie Mingjue to come and see Wei Ying’s exhibit.

Nie Mingjue’s brother, Nie Huiasang, has a wide reach. It would do Wei Ying great if his works were recognized by those who have an eye for great talent. Wei Ying is nervous about his first solo exhibit flopping, and he already had encountered difficulties. A little exposure would bolster Wei Ying’s name in the industry. Wei Ying deserves only the best and Lan Zhan would happily help boost his career.

He also learned that Wei Ying volunteers as an art therapy teacher for troubled kids in care shelters. He should find a way how to make the care shelter part of Lan Corp.’s philanthropic responsibility. Wei Ying is doing great service to their community and society, it is only right to support him. If he was captivated by Wei Ying’s appearance earlier, now, he knows he is the one. His soulmate.

The shared piece of strawberry shortcake tasted sweeter with they both eating it. The stress of the day was washed away by the lavender mint tea and Wei Ying’s presence. They left before Wen Ning closed the cafe for the day. By midnight, they had their first kiss in front of Wei Ying’s apartment. Lan Zhan went home that night way past his usual bedtime, but it was all worth it.

The following year on their anniversary, they would be sitting on the same window seat. Wei Ying suggested making it a tradition between them. They would wear the same set of clothes they wore that fateful day they met. They would drink the same drink they had, lavender mint tea for him and mixed berries smoothie for Wei Ying. and of course, they would share a slice of strawberry shortcake together.

Fifty years after their first meeting, they would still be doing the same. Lan Zhan had bought the cafe to ensure their little tradition would not be interrupted. Their son and grandchildren teased him for it, but Lan Zhan could not regret it. Wei Ying still had that same blinding smile the first time they met. He would happily continue their anniversary tradition for the next fifty years. He only hopes to keep that smile and melodious laughter of Wei Ying.

His best friend.

His husband.

His life confidant.

His soulmate.

His Wei Ying.

-end-

Note:

This idea popped into my head last 520 (Chinese Valentine's), but it took me too much time to actually write it.

I also used to think that mango cake was the best cake, but strawberries made me change my mind. How I wish I could have strawberry cake every time I want it. Wouldn't that be nice?

This is originally a response to a r/MDZS question that I forgot I answered at all because I've been not on Reddit for ages. Anyway, here it goes:

They weren't but I'll propose my head canon to you!

Jins use generational names, remember? So, the "Zi" in Jin Zixuan's name points to him being part of the "Zi" generation, like his cousin Jin Zixun. Their the current generation in line to inherit the Jin sect. Same with Jin Ling being given the name Jin Rulan. "Ru" is his generational identification. But him being named "Ling" at birth could be his milk name, influenced by his mother coming from Yunmeng Jiang clan. To add, this is also one of the key details that tells us Jin Guangshan did not have any plans of acknowledging Meng Yao apart from legitimizing him. Meng Yao being given the courtesy name Jin GuangYao making him part of the Guang generation, literally his father's. So, going by this logic, he isn't in line to be a Jin heir. But well, we know what happened...

Now for the Nie clan! I don't think they use courtesy names. Can you recall that their ancestors were butchers? Seeing that they elevated their status from workers to gentry level, I believe they chose to uphold the traditions of their ancestors. Correct me if I'm wrong, but courtesy names are mostly in fashion for those in the nobility and royal class. So Huaisang is named Huaisang at birth. Nie Mingjue wasn't also introduced with a courtesy name, so, I conclude that the Nie clan just doesn't bother with it. They are after all known for being blunt and straightforward.

There are loopholes to this but I think it's pretty plausible (?).

You can find the actual post here. There are also other interesting answers on that threat.