{"id":150,"date":"2020-08-21T19:07:54","date_gmt":"2020-08-21T11:07:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/?p=150"},"modified":"2023-06-25T09:52:48","modified_gmt":"2023-06-25T01:52:48","slug":"espresso-martini","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/150\/","title":{"rendered":"espresso martini"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

Wei Ying had a problem. The problem? He was trying to figure out the most effective way to sneak Emperor\u2019s Smile past the new room advisor of his dorm. The role had been taken up by the well-established Lan Xichen after the previous guy \u2014 Su She, Wei Ying recalled \u2014 had been kicked out of the position for not upholding rules. Wei Ying hated to admit it, but he would miss Su She \u2014 only because despite how badly they got along, Wei Ying had always had no problem smuggling alcohol into his dorm.<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen, or Zewu-Jun, on the other hand was on another level entirely. His name was well known throughout campus and beyond. He excelled in everything he did. From academia, to musical performances with his guqin, to his swordsmanship, to his social etiquette. He thrived in all areas. However, part of the reputation he had earned had come due to his extreme diligence when it came to rules \u2014 as typical of those of the Lan sect. According to rumours Wei Ying had heard, Lan Xichen had even turned himself in for punishment when it was discovered a student he had mentored had plagiarised someone else\u2019s work. The guy was too disciplined, Wei Ying thought.<\/p>\n

As he laid back on his bed he tossed his brother\u2019s tennis ball into the air before catching and repeating the action. Just what would be the best way?<\/p>\n

The dorm door was then thrown open and in came a frowning Jiang Cheng, Wei Ying\u2019s brother and roommate, followed by a carefree Nie Huaisang.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2014\u201d Nie Huaisang said, with the look of someone up to no good.<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng was quick to stop him with a groan. \u201cI don\u2019t care about whatever rumours you\u2019ve heard about Lan Wangji.\u201d<\/p>\n

Nie Huaisang pouted. \u201cThey\u2019re not rumours \u2014 they\u2019re facts!\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying\u2019s ears perked up. He sat up, placing the tennis ball on his bedside table. \u201cDo enlighten me please. What did you hear about Lan Wangji?\u201d Wei Ying said.<\/p>\n

Lan Wangji, or sometimes referred to by his title Hanguang-Jun, was the younger brother of Lan Xichen and he was well known throughout campus in his own right for similar feats as his brother. But while Lan Xichen was stringent with rules, he was also kind and social among all the sects. Lan Wangji on the other hand was rumoured to be serious, stoic and unmoving when it came to rules. He was known as the less sociable one of the two Lan brothers. Wei Ying had heard many rumours about the guy, but he had never actually engaged or even seen him.<\/p>\n

Nie Huaisang grinned as he turned to Wei Ying. \u201cOh? What\u2019s this? Brother Wei has developed an interest in the one and only Hanguang-Jun?\u201d He opened his fan in front of his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnlikely,\u201d Jiang Cheng filled in for him. \u201cHis brother is our new room advisor. Wei Wuxian probably just wants to know how he can sneak alcohol in past him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying looked offended. \u201cMe sneak alcohol into the dorms? I would never!\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng just rolled his eyes before taking his tennis ball back and sitting on his bed.<\/p>\n

Nie Huaisang pocketed his fan and sat himself on Wei Ying\u2019s desk chair. \u201cWell whatever the case, I heard he\u2019s working at that new coffee shop. You know the one near the Cloud Recesses library?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying nodded. He knew the one – he\u2019d passed it earlier in the week. \u201cAh! What a coincidence! I feel like a coffee right now!\u201d He stood up. \u201cI\u2019ll see you two later.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t go causing trouble,\u201d Jiang Cheng scolded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI never do!\u201d Wei Ying replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cLies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying just laughed as he exited the dorm room.<\/p>\n

The only bad part of his plan was that he forgot the Cloud Recesses library was on the other side of campus, which would be fine normally, but it was especially cold and wet that day and Wei Ying had not dressed appropriately. He picked up the pace.<\/p>\n

When he finally arrived at the cafe, it was quieter than he thought it would be. Only a few tables were occupied. As he walked up to the counter he was quick to recognise the guy at the cash register.<\/p>\n

\u201cWen Ning? You work here?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

\u201cYoung Master Wei!\u201d Wen Ning greeted him. \u201cIt only opened recently, so I haven\u2019t been working here long.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, I see. I see.\u201d Wei Ying nodded. It was then that he felt another pair of eyes lingering on him. He glanced over at the man behind the coffee machine. There was no doubting it. Despite having never met him, Wei Ying just knew the person was Lan Wangji. His long black hair was tied up in a high ponytail, but the Lan headband was still in place and his resemblance to the ever famous Lan Xichen was clear as day. His expression was stoic, just as the rumours said, but he was definitely handsome \u2014 something that hadn\u2019t ever crossed Wei Ying\u2019s mind before.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can I get you?\u201d Wen Ning said after looking back and forth between Wei Ying and Lan Wangji nervously.<\/p>\n

\u201cHmmm… a large cappuccino please,\u201d Wei Ying said.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. That\u2019ll be $5.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying tapped his debit card and once approved, moved closer to the coffee machine, watching as Lan Wangji got to work on making his coffee. His hands moved fast like a seasoned pro, despite the fact he was new to the job.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t skimp on the chocolate, Hanguang-Jun,\u201d Wei Ying said and gave Lan Wangji a wink. This caused Lan Wangji to fumble when he reached for the chocolate powder, but it was barely noticeable as he quickly recovered. Wei Ying was curious, but said nothing. Afterall, he knew full well that people with a reputation like him generally didn\u2019t get on well with people like Lan Wangji. That was probably all it was: irritation.<\/p>\n

Nevertheless, Lan Wangji tapped some chocolate dusting over the coffee before placing a lid on top. He placed it in front of Wei Ying. \u201cOne cappuccino,\u201d was all Lan Wangji said.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying smiled and accepted it. \u201cThank you,\u201d he said. Lan Wangji gave a curt nod.<\/p>\n

And that\u2019s when the idea struck him: coffee cups! It wasn\u2019t ideal, but he could get one of those extra large coffee flasks and smuggle alcohol in that way. Lan Xichen would have no clue!<\/p>\n

Grinning like a fool, Wei Ying took his drink and left the coffee shop. He forgot just how cold it was outside but not even that could take away his victorious mood. Instead, he headed back to his dorm room letting his cappuccino warm his hands.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t until later that week, Friday night, that Wei Ying attempted to put his plan into action. He had informed Jiang Cheng of what he was going to do, but his brother had merely shook his head in dismay and warned him not to bring shame to their family. If everything went as smoothly as Wei Ying hoped, there would be nothing to worry about.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying walked out of the liquor store with one bottle of Emperor\u2019s Smile and rounded the corner into a dark empty alleyway. He withdrew his coffee flask from his bag, twisted off the lid and proceeded to pour the Emperor\u2019s Smile into it. There was a small fraction of alcohol remaining once the flask was full, so Wei Ying merely downed the remainder from the bottle there and then; it would be a shame for it to go to waste, he reasoned.<\/p>\n

Happy with the innocuous appearance of the flask, Wei Ying tossed the empty Emperor\u2019s Smile bottle in a nearby trash can and headed back to his dorm. He carried it in his hand \u2014 worried that it would leak in his bag since he had filled it to the brim. Besides, he figured it would be more convincing that there was actual coffee in it that way.<\/p>\n

As he arrived back at the dorms, he discovered he had been wrong in assuming Lan Xichen would be there. Instead, he was faced with Lan Wangji who was seated at the coffee table in the lounge, his eyes focused on a book open in front of him.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, Wei Ying was aware that this was a possibility. He had bumped into Wen Ning the day before and they had got onto the topic of work. Wei Ying had playfully said, \u201cI hope you\u2019re not rostered on with Lan Wangji all the time. He seems too serious. You gotta have some fun.\u201d Wen Ning had merely laughed and responded that Lan Wangji only worked Tuesday, Thursday and sometimes Saturday, whereas Wen Ning himself worked every business day.<\/p>\n

Acquiring that information, although unintentionally, was very helpful; it meant, if this attempt to smuggle alcohol into the dorms failed because of Lan Wangji, then at least he could get away with it on those days instead.<\/p>\n

It was clever thinking of the Lan brothers to have Lan Wangji to sit in the lounge. One had to pass through the lounge to get to their dorm room; this would allow Lan Xichen, or Lan Wangji in this case, to supervise who and what passed through. Su She had never bothered, which is probably what led to his forced departure.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Hanguang-Jun. Hi!\u201d Wei Ying greeted him with a smile.<\/p>\n

Lan Wangji looked up from his book. He locked eyes with him for what felt longer than necessary before giving a curt nod. His eyes fell upon the flask in Wei Ying\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cCoffee?\u201d Lan Wangji said.<\/p>\n

\u201cUh, yeah,\u201d Wei Ying said, internally cringing at his hesitation. He gestured to the flask with his free hand. \u201cNeed all the caffeine I can get to finish this essay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Wangji didn\u2019t comment.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s your brother anyway?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBrother is busy,\u201d Lan Wangji said.<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. I\u2019ll, uh, leave you to read your book in peace then,\u201d Wei Ying said with a smile, gesturing at Lan Wangji\u2019s book.<\/p>\n

As he walked past Lan Wangji he felt a hand grip his wrist.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait,\u201d Lan Wangji said. \u201cWhat\u2019s really in the flask?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying cursed mentally. He turned to Lan Wangji. \u201cHuh?\u201d he said, playing dumb with a tilt of his head. \u201cCoffee? What else would be in there?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cProve it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAw, come on, Lan Zhan! You know I need all this coffee to keep me focused! I can\u2019t spare a drop.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan did not react to the use of his personal name. Wei Ying was a little disappointed but at the same time encouraged by the lack of reaction.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is forbidden to bring alcohol into the dorms.\u201d Lan Zhan looked Wei Ying straight in the eyes. \u201c… Wei Ying,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying\u2019s eyebrows rose. He hadn\u2019t been expecting that. He didn\u2019t even know Lan Zhan was aware of his name, let alone his personal name. So they were on personal names now? Fascinating.<\/p>\n

He looked at the coffee flask in his hand and an idea sprung to mind. Maybe, just maybe, he could out-reason Lan Zhan. Lan Zhan couldn\u2019t prove with full certainty that Wei Ying\u2019s flask was not full of alcohol unless he actually tasted it himself, right? And that was something Lan Zhan would never do because of his sect\u2019s rules. Surely, he would have to let Wei Ying carry on if he could not be certain? One way to find out, Wei Ying figured.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying made to move past Lan Zhan, but Lan Zhan stood in front of him, blocking the way. A sandalwood scent filled the air; of course Lan Zhan just had to smell good too. Now\u2019s no time to be distracted, even if Lan Zhan is\u2026 interesting.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Wei Ying gave a dramatic sigh. \u201cGuess you\u2019re just going to have to do a taste test to verify that it\u2019s not alcohol,\u201d Wei Ying said, walking to the joint kitchen. He grabbed a glass and placed it atop the counter. Lan Zhan followed closely behind.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no need. I can tell by its smell and appearance,\u201d Lan Zhan countered, but nevertheless appeared beside him.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying wiggled a finger in front of Lan Zhan\u2019s face. \u201cTssk, Lan Zhan. You can\u2019t be certain unless you taste it!\u201d He proceeded to pour some of the Emperor\u2019s Smile into the glass. Lan Zhan appeared unsurprised by the clear contents that came out. Wei Ying pushed the glass in Lan Zhan\u2019s direction.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan brought the glass under his nose. \u201cIt\u2019s alcohol.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying reached for the glass. His fingers brushed against Lan Zhan\u2019s; they were warm, contrasting his own cold hands from being outside. \u201cLooks like water to me,\u201d he said and proceeded to take a swig. He put a finger to his chin as if contemplating the taste and swallowed. \u201cYep. Definitely water.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan\u2019s face remained as impassive as ever. \u201cI will taste it,\u201d he said. Fuck, <\/em>Wei Ying thought but he kept his composure and slid the glass across to Lan Zhan.<\/p>\n

Lifting the glass to his lips, Lan Zhan took a sip. Wei Wuxian could not believe it. The esteemed Hanguang-Jun, who adhered rigorously to his sect\u2019s rules, now breaking them? What a turn of events.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is alcohol. Certainly not water,\u201d Lan Zhan said. His usual neutral expression gave way to a slight frown and scrunched nose. It was kind of.. cute<\/em>, Wei Ying thought.<\/p>\n

\u201cSurely you can\u2019t be certain with such a tiny sip!\u201d Wei Ying said, desperately trying to bluff his way out of the situation somehow.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan did not look impressed. \u201cI am not a fool, Wei Ying. Hand over the alcohol.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying contemplated bolting past Lan Zhan and seeing how far he got. The other man was fit, if his physique was anything to go by; but surely he couldn\u2019t be as quick as Wei Ying! He was just about to put his plan into action when Lan Zhan\u2019s eyes started to flutter \u2014 as if he was fighting to keep them open \u2014 and then, without so much as a word\u2019s warning, he started to fall. Wei Ying\u2019s body acted on instinct and he managed to catch Lan Zhan before he collided face first with the floor.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the hell,\u201d Wei Ying said, feeling rather alarmed. He managed to maneuver Lan Zhan\u2019s body onto a nearby sofa. He patted Lan Zhan\u2019s cheek, hoping to stir the man. \u201cLan Zhan, are you okay?\u201d But Lan Zhan did not respond. Instead, Lan Zhan\u2019s breathing evened out. It almost sounded as if\u2026 as if he was sleeping?<\/p>\n

Who would\u2019ve thought the esteemed Hanguang-Jun would fall asleep from a drop of Emperor\u2019s Smile?<\/em> Wei Ying chuckled to himself. What to do now, though? He couldn\u2019t just leave Lan Zhan there in that state. He would have to stay. Besides, Lan Zhan was proving to be a lot more interesting than he initially gave him credit for. Wei Wuxian grinned and decided that he would stay with Lan Zhan for the time being and if he just happened to drink all his Emperor\u2019s Smile in that time, well, who had to know?<\/p>\n

Wei Ying finished the remainder of Emperor\u2019s Smile that Lan Zhan had left before topping the small glass with some more from his coffee flask. He sat back on the sofa and looked over at the sleeping Lan Zhan. He really was handsome; he could definitely understand why he had so many admirers. But something about his sleeping form made him look a lot softer, more approachable than his awake form. Wei Ying would be lying if he said he wasn\u2019t somewhat tempted to just tuck himself in right up next to him and get cozy. He shook that thought out of his head and took another swig from his glass. Can you imagine? Lan Zhan would probably combust from anger if he woke up to that!\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

With a sigh, Wei Ying withdrew his phone from his pocket and absently responded to his notifications. One of the notifications was a message from Jiang Cheng. It read:<\/p>\n

You\u2019re not back yet and I know that Lan Wangji was on watch. Should I start making funeral arrangements?<\/p>\n

Wei Ying typed out a reply:<\/p>\n

Ha ha you\u2019re so funny. I\u2019m fine. Just hanging out with him now, actually! Who knew the guy is actually really laid back!<\/p>\n

He snorted at his own joke.<\/p>\n

It only took a few minutes for Jiang Cheng\u2019s reply to come through:<\/p>\n

What did you do\u2026. Actually, don\u2019t tell me. I don\u2019t want to be considered an accessory to the crime. Goodnight Wei Wuxian.<\/p>\n

Chuckling to himself, Wei Ying exited the messaging app and opened one of the many silly game apps he had on his phone. This one was a racing one. He played a good few rounds before he was interrupted by a stirring Lan Zhan.<\/p>\n

\u201cLan Zhan?\u201d Wei Wuxian said, phone forgotten as he patted Lan Zhan\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan stirred a bit more but never opened his eyes. \u201cWei.. Ying..\u201d<\/p>\n

That caught Wei Ying\u2019s interest. \u201cYes, Lan Zhan?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBunnies\u2026 cute.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying had to muffle his laughter. Was the esteemed Hanguang-Jun really confessing his adoration for bunnies in his sleep? Oh, this was gold. It was actually kind of adorable really but it had only managed to intrigue Wei Ying further. Just who are you really, Lan Zhan?<\/em> He bet that none of his league of admirers knew this side of him. In a way, he felt privileged to see Lan Zhan at his most vulnerable. Though, he doubted Lan Zhan would be much too happy about the situation, once he awoke.<\/p>\n

An hour passed by without so much as another word from Lan Zhan. Wei Ying had finished his Emperor\u2019s Smile and was just messaging Wen Ning when he heard someone clear their throat. He looked up. It was Lan Xichen. He looked at Wei Ying with a clear question in his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cCare to explain?\u201d Lan Xichen said.<\/p>\n

Wei Wuxian rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. Lan Xichen was one person he couldn\u2019t bullshit. \u201cI guess you wouldn\u2019t believe Lan Zhan and I had a drinking contest, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe truth, if you please, Wei Wuxian.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI tried bringing some Emperor\u2019s Smile in. Lan Zhan stopped me. I insisted he had to taste it to be certain it was alcohol, which he surprisingly did, and then he just fell asleep on me! Fast forward to now and here you have it. I didn\u2019t want to leave him since it was my fault in the first place.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a hint of amusement in Lan Xichen\u2019s eyes. \u201cBrother does not bode well with alcohol. You did not know this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI had no idea he was this much of a lightweight! Honestly, I didn\u2019t think he would take me on and actually taste it,\u201d Wei Ying said.<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen smiled. \u201cIt is very unlike brother. Thank you for sticking around. I can take care of him from here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying nodded and shot one last look at Lan Zhan. He was still sound asleep, peaceful as ever.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh and Wei Wuxian?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying looked back to Lan Xichen. \u201cYes, Zewu-Jun?\u201d<\/p>\n

With a knowing smile Lan Xichen gestured to the empty flask and glass. \u201cDon\u2019t let me catch you with alcohol again.\u201d<\/p>\n

With an awkward laugh, Wei Ying nodded and proceeded to dash out of the lounge and to his dorm room as quickly as he could.<\/p>\n

What a night. One thing was certain: Lan Zhan was full of surprises and Wei Ying wanted to know more.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

The next day, Wei Ying was feeling restless. It was a Saturday afternoon and he had nothing to do. Well, that wasn\u2019t entirely true. He had a pile of assignments to finish but it was more fun to live life on the edge and complete them at the last minute, or so he tried to justify to his procrastinator self. Besides, there was a certain lightweight Lan sect student he couldn\u2019t stop thinking about. He grinned at the thought of Lan Zhan\u2019s sleeping face and decided to venture to the new coffee shop in hope that said guy would be working.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying arrived at the coffee shop delighted to find Lan Zhan was behind the coffee maker with his barista apron on. He grinned and waved but Lan Zhan either didn\u2019t take notice of him or elected not to respond. He was disappointed Wen Ning didn\u2019t work Saturdays but he would catch up with him another time.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi, what can I get you?\u201d said the cheerful young woman behind the cash register when it was Wei Ying\u2019s turn to order.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying hummed, taking his time to decide. \u201cI\u2019ll have a large cappuccino, please,\u201d he said eventually.<\/p>\n

As if on cue, Lan Zhan appeared next to the cash register woman. He slid forward the coffee he\u2019d just prepared to Wei Wuxian.<\/p>\n

\u201cWow, Lan Zhan! You remembered my order? I might have to mix things up next time,\u201d Wei Ying said with a wink at Lan Zhan.<\/p>\n

\u201cShameless,\u201d Lan Zhan said, the tip of his ears slightly red.<\/p>\n

The woman on the cash register looked at them both, a look of confusion on her face. \u201cUm, was that all?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, no. Can I also get a long-mac topped up, please,\u201d Wei Ying said. He wasn\u2019t fond of the drink but Jiang Cheng was and he may have promised him one before he left. Besides, this also gave him a chance to chat to Lan Zhan.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying paid for the drinks and moved to the end of the counter to the coffee machine where Lan Zhan was busy at work.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Lan Zhan. Who knew you were such a lightweight, eh? You said some interesting things last night, you know,\u201d Wei Ying teased. Lan Zhan\u2019s eyes darted up from his busy hands to glare at Wei Ying.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying put a finger to his chin. \u201cWhat was it you said? Oh yeah, you told me you like\u2026\u201d He gazed at Lan Zhan \u2014 it was subtle but the usual impassive expression on his face had shifted. His eyes had widened by a fraction, and his hands had stopped moving.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying looked around the coffee shop \u2014 there was only one other customer and they were busy typing away on their laptop. So he leaned across the counter\u2014 earning another look of confusion from the cash register woman\u2014 shielded his mouth with his hand, and whispered to Lan Zhan. \u201cBunnies. You said they\u2019re cute.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan\u2019s usual stoic and impassive expression returned. Though, was that also a moment of relief on his face? Wei Ying couldn\u2019t be sure. He smiled innocently at Lan Zhan who, unsurprisingly, did not reciprocate, instead finishing up making the second coffee. Lan Zhan was just too fun to tease.<\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t take long for Lan Zhan to finish making Jiang Cheng\u2019s coffee.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Lan Zhan!\u201d Wei Ying said, accepting the cardboard coffee tray holding both coffees. Lan Zhan didn\u2019t respond.\u00a0 He didn\u2019t even give him the curt nod like he had done previously. Wei Ying pouted and exited the coffee shop. Had he pushed things too far? Was Lan Zhan mad at him for what had happened? He didn\u2019t know.<\/p>\n

As Wei Ying was on his way back to his and Jiang Cheng\u2019s dorm, he bumped into Lan Xichen. Quite literally \u2014 if it wasn\u2019t for Wei Ying\u2019s quick reflexes he would\u2019ve spilled the coffees.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh! Almost spilled them,\u201d Wei Ying said, regaining his balance.<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen appeared rather distracted but came to when he realised what had just happened. \u201cAh, sorry about that,\u201d he said. \u201cAre you okay, Wei Wuxian?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying nodded. \u201cYeah, I\u2019m fine. But, Zewu-Jun, are you okay? You look kind of.. stressed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen sighed. \u201cAm I that easy to read? I\u2019m okay. Just a bit worried. Some younger Lan sect students have exams later next week.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Lan Zhan too?\u201d Wei Ying asked.<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen nodded. \u201cYes. I\u2019m not worried about him, though. Just some other students.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying smiled. \u201cI\u2019m sure they\u2019ll be fine. Especially if they have yours and Lan Zhan\u2019s guidance!\u201d He patted Lan Xichen on the shoulder. \u201cStress less!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen visibly eased and laughed. \u201cI can see why my brother is fond of you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying did a double-take at that. \u201cLan Zhan fond of me? Ha! You\u2019re a funny one Zewu-Jun,\u201d Wei Ying said, wiggling his finger at Lan Xichen.<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen just smiled. \u201cBelieve what you will. I must get going. I will see you around, Wei Wuxian.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSee you!\u201d Wei Ying said. What a strange encounter<\/em>; Wei Ying wasn\u2019t sure what to make of it. Lan Zhan fond of him? His heartbeat hastened at the thought. But there was no way. The guy could barely tolerate him. If he truly were fond, though, he definitely had an odd way of showing it. Wei Ying didn\u2019t dwell on it, though, and instead returned to his dorm with coffees in hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cAbout time you got here. Thought you got lost,\u201d Jiang Cheng said, swivelling around on his chair.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying merely shrugged with a grin and handed him his coffee.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

Come Tuesday afternoon, Wei Ying was cursing his earlier self for procrastinating. He was sat at his desk in his room, furiously typing away at an essay that was due that evening. It was for his elective class on philosophy and as in usual Wei Ying fashion, he had left it to the last minute.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m meeting Nie Huaisang for coffee. Do you want anything?\u201d came Jiang Cheng\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying turned in his seat. \u201cOh! Are you going to Lan Zhan\u2019s work?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng eyed him suspiciously. \u201cMaybe. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you give this to him,\u201d Wei Ying said, grabbing a folded up piece of paper from next to his laptop.<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng frowned as he drummed his fingers along his bicep. \u201cYou expect me to deliver your love letter to Lan Wangji?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Wuxian pouted. \u201cIt\u2019s not a love letter. It\u2019s a good luck charm. He\u2019s got exams this week.\u201d And it was, truthfully. On the paper he had drawn a rabbit and written: \u2018Good luck for your exams, Lan Zhan! \u2014 Wei Ying\u2019\u2019.<\/p>\n

With a roll of his eyes, Jiang Cheng extended his hand. \u201cFine. I\u2019ll deliver your so-called good luck charm. Do you want a coffee or not?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, please. Large cappuccino!\u201d<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng grabbed his wallet and coat. \u201cI\u2019ll be back soon. Get your essay finished.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, mom,\u201d Wei Ying said, which earned him a smack in the head. Jiang Cheng jumped out of reach and exited the room before Wei Ying could retaliate.<\/p>\n

By the time Jiang Cheng returned, Wei Ying had managed to get a considerable portion of the essay written.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere,\u201d Jiang Cheng said in lieu of a greeting, placing the coffee cup on Wei Ying\u2019s desk.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, thank you,\u201d Wei Ying practically sang, reaching for the coffee immediately. He took a sip; it was the perfect temperature \u2014 probably because the coffee shop Lan Zhan worked at was a fair distance away from their dorms \u2014 and tasted just right. Lan Zhan made a decent coffee.<\/p>\n

He noticed Jiang Cheng hadn\u2019t moved; he was staring at Wei Ying with an indecipherable look on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Wei Ying said, somewhat self-consciously.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow often do you go to that coffee shop?\u201d Jiang Cheng said.<\/p>\n

\u201cEh? I\u2019ve only been a few times. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLan Wangji\u2026 he knows your order.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying laughed. \u201cOf course he does. He\u2019s Lan Zhan! Good at everything he does \u2014 including remembering coffee orders.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng raised his chin. \u201cHe doesn\u2019t remember my order and I\u2019ve been there with Nie Huaisang more than a few times.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying smirked, a cheeky question on his lips. \u201cAre you jealous, Jiang Cheng?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng\u2019s face morphed through many different expressions all at once, from anger to disbelief to disgust. \u201cWei Wuxian! How dare you suggest that!\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying just laughed as he watched Jiang Cheng calm down.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat I mean is, why does he remember just your order? Do you two have some kind of special relationship I should know about?\u201d Jiang Cheng said, grimacing.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying was taken aback. \u201cWhat? Me and Lan Zhan? Ha! As if!\u201d His thought of I wish<\/em> was left unsaid. \u201cThe only special relationship we have is that I tease him while he just stares at me disapprovingly. If he remembers me it\u2019s just because of how outspoken I am. Honestly, I think he has a death wish for me. That\u2019s all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng didn\u2019t look entirely convinced but seemed appeased for the time being as he nodded at Wei Ying\u2019s laptop. \u201cEssay done?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlmost.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTime\u2019s running out. You better get a move on.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLeave me in peace then!\u201d<\/p>\n

An hour later Wei Ying had managed to submit his essay on time, with exactly 14 minutes to spare: a victory in his books.<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

As Friday came around, Wei Ying was filled with excitement at the thought of seeing Lan Zhan. He didn\u2019t even bother trying to conceal the Emperor\u2019s Smile in a flask; the bottle sat in the paper bag he was carrying.<\/p>\n

As he entered the lounge of the dorms he was delighted to see Lan Zhan sitting at the coffee table with his head buried in a book yet again. As if he could sense Wei Ying\u2019s presence, Lan Zhan looked up.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying grinned. \u201cHey, Lan Zhan. Don\u2019t mind me. Just heading through to my dorm,\u201d he said and carried on walking.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan stood. \u201cAlcohol is forbidden in the dorms.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m well aware of that thanks to your reminder last week. We should do that again some time, Lan Zhan!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan\u2019s eyes darted to the paper bag in Wei Ying\u2019s hands. \u201cYou are trying to bring more in as we speak.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, this here?\u201d Wei Ying said, lifting the paper bag. \u201cNope. Not alcohol. Definitely not Emperor\u2019s Smile.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan approached Wei Ying and reached for the bag but Wei Ying held it behind himself beyond Lan Zhan\u2019s reach.<\/p>\n

\u201cWei Ying. Hand it over,\u201d Lan Zhan said.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I have a better idea. Why don\u2019t we enjoy it together?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlcohol is forbidden.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying rolled his eyes. \u201cYes, yes. I got that already. But Lan Zhan, I\u2019m not handing it over. You\u2019ll have to kill me first!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRidiculous,\u201d Lan Zhan muttered.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying grinned, happy to have gotten a reaction from the ever stoic Lan Zhan.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan came closer to Wei Ying, reaching his hand out for the paper bag. But Wei Ying transferred the bag to his other hand at the last moment and used his free hand to tap Lan Zhan\u2019s nose. That was clearly not what Lan Zhan was expecting as his eyes went wide.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll have to try harder than that, Lan Zhan!\u201d Wei Ying said and stepped out of reach to behind one of the sofas in the lounge.<\/p>\n

The tips of Lan Zhan\u2019s ears were bright red. But nevertheless, he yet again approached Wei Ying. And so the next few minutes saw a game of cat versus mouse play out. Lan Zhan got so close, several times, but Wei Ying managed to wriggle his way out of every situation. Wei Ying was plenty entertained; he wasn\u2019t so sure Lan Zhan felt the same way.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying, feeling all too confident, waved the bag in the air and started walking backwards. \u201cThis has been fun, but I\u2019m gonna go drink this now, Lan Zhan! You can still choose to join me, if you like.\u201d<\/p>\n

Then a few things happened all at once.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying walked backwards into the back of the sofa while Lan Zhan reached for the bottle. As Wei Ying tumbled over the sofa, he ended up reaching out for Lan Zhan to balance himself but inevitably pulled him down with him. They landed with a thud on the sofa. Lan Zhan\u2019s body pressed into Wei Ying\u2019s.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying opened his eyes to see Lan Zhan\u2019s face inches away from his own, staring down at him. Lan Zhan\u2019s gaze travelled to Wei Ying\u2019s lips and then back to Wei Ying\u2019s eyes. Realisation dawned on Wei Ying. Oh.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Lan Zhan?\u201d Wei Ying said softly.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan\u2019s eyes widened and darted away from Wei Ying\u2019s gaze; he looked like a deer in the headlights. He made to get off Wei Ying, but Wei Ying wrapped his arms around Lan Zhan\u2019s neck before he could. Lan Zhan stilled and looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I kiss you?\u201d Wei Ying said.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan\u2019s eyes lit up as he didn\u2019t even spare the question a second of thought and immediately closed the gap between them, pressing his lips to Wei Ying\u2019s. I\u2019ll take that as a yes, <\/em>Wei Ying thought as he parted his lips and let Lan Zhan in. Lan Zhan did not hold back. In Wei Ying\u2019s imagination (because yes, he might have fantasised about this once or twice) Lan Zhan kissed the way he did everything; that is, with precision and care. The real life Lan Zhan, though, was so much better than he could\u2019ve imagined. Sure it was a bit clumsy at times, but boy was the enthusiasm there. And Wei Ying gave just as much as he got.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan pulled back. \u201cThis isn\u2019t a tactic to get alcohol by me, is it?\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying laughed. \u201cHa! I wish I had thought of that. But no. I\u2019ve wanted to do this since I first laid eyes on you at the coffee shop. I like you, Lan Zhan,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan responded by kissing him again, but only briefly before he pulled back. \u201cI like Wei Ying. Have for a while.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying\u2019s eyebrows rose. \u201cHuh? How long are we talking? The first time I actually saw you properly was at your work!\u201d<\/p>\n

The tip of Lan Zhan\u2019s ears were a lovely scarlet red. \u201cI have seen you around campus many times. Your reputation precedes you. Wei Ying is known for his cleverness and kindness.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Wei Ying\u2019s turn to blush, only his blushing manifested in his cheeks. \u201cLan Zhan!\u201d he said, pulling Lan Zhan in close to kiss him once again.<\/p>\n

A cough interrupted them, though, and they quickly separated to sit properly on the sofa. Wei Ying looked up to see Lan Xichen, a gasping Nie Huaisang, and a grimacing Jiang Cheng.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs heartwarming as that was to watch\u2014\u201d Lan Xichen started.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think you mean disgusting,\u201d Jiang Cheng interrupted. Wei Ying rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014 it would be better done in the privacy of your own rooms,\u201d Lan Xichen finished.<\/p>\n

Jiang Cheng\u2019s eyes widened in horror. \u201cOh hell no! They\u2019re not doing\u2026 that\u2026 in our dorm! Go to Lan Wangji\u2019s for that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Nie Huaisang laughed from behind his fan. \u201cOh, Jiang Cheng. One day you will learn of the birds and the bees.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say!?\u201d Jiang Cheng said, turning on Nie Huaisang, face fuming.<\/p>\n

Wei Ying laughed while watching Nie Huaisang cower from Jiang Cheng\u2019s wrath. He turned his attention to Lan Zhan, grabbing hold of his hand. \u201cWhat do you think? Yours?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan gave a small nod and pulled Wei Ying to his feet. Some Lan sect students stayed in the same dorms as Wei Ying as it was the old Lan building, but Lan Zhan was not one of them; he stayed in the new Lan dorms where Lan students were slowly being transferred to.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are going, brother,\u201d Lan Zhan said to Lan Xichen.<\/p>\n

Lan Xichen nodded with a smile. \u201cVery well. We will catch up later.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan nodded and he and Wei Ying grabbed their belongings \u2014 mostly Lan Zhan\u2019s books \u2014 and made their way out of the dorm. Wei Ying just grinned at his brother and Nie Huaisang. Jiang Cheng grimaced while Nie Huaisang just blushed behind his fan.<\/p>\n

They were greeted by the chilly night air once they arrived outside. It was dark and quiet; the cold had Wei Ying pressing himself closer to Lan Zhan. \u201cHey Lan Zhan,\u201d Wei Ying said.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan turned to Wei Ying. \u201cMm?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying held up the paper bag with the Emperor\u2019s Smile in it and smirked. \u201cI think I won.\u201d<\/p>\n

The slightest hint of a smile appeared on Lan Zhan\u2019s face and Wei Ying gasped. \u201cYou smiled!\u201d<\/p>\n

In Wei Ying\u2019s excitement he tripped over a bump in the pavement. Lan Zhan saved him just in time but dropped one of his books as a result.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, let me get that,\u201d Wei Ying said, but as he bent down to pick up the book he noticed a familiar drawing of a bunny had fallen out. It was the good luck charm he had drawn for Lan Zhan during his exams. He grabbed it and the book and stood, looking at Lan Zhan. \u201cYou kept it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan nodded. \u201cOf course.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wei Ying grinned at him. He grabbed hold of Lan Zhan\u2019s hand, and gave it a gentle squeeze as they carried on walking.<\/p>\n

Lan Zhan squeezed his hand back.<\/p>\n

The feeling of being liked was a good one. Wei Ying only hoped Lan Zhan could sense his affections for him, too.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

With Lan Xichen assigned as the new resident advisor, Wei Wuxian has to get creative with sneaking alcohol into his dorm.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[64,27],"fandom":[33],"rating":[3],"ship":[34],"class_list":["post-150","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-m-m","tag-alternate-universe-exchange","tag-college-au","fandom-mdzs","rating-teen","ship-wangxian","wpautop"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/150","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=150"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/150\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":151,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/150\/revisions\/151"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=150"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=150"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=150"},{"taxonomy":"fandom","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/fandom?post=150"},{"taxonomy":"rating","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rating?post=150"},{"taxonomy":"ship","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cloverso.me\/fic\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ship?post=150"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}