JJK BOYS’ WHEN YOU CALL THEM BY THEIR LAST NAME !

𝟑:𝟑𝟑 𝐀𝐌 — 𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐈 𝐊𝐄𝐈𝐉𝐈

“psst,” akaashi whispers, lightly shaking your sleeping body. when you show no signs of movement, he repeats his actions. “pssssst!”

you groan, eyes still shut as you moan out, “whaaat?” you shake your body to get his hands off of you. “keijiii, ‘m tired.”

he knows you’re tired and he knows that you’ve been having the worst week of your life, but he can’t sleep— he can’t sleep knowing you’ve been dealing with all the bad things by yourself.

he’s not sure why you didn’t tell him you were hurting, but it was evident on your face. when you walked into your shared apartment, tears threatening to fall from your eyes, you smiled at him. teeth and everything, but the smile never reached your eyes. he knew.

how couldn’t he know, though? this is akaashi keiji, the man who spent so much time learning everything about you. he knows your favorite foods and your favorite movie and everything down to your favorite pair of lucky socks. it’s only natural that he’d know exactly how crappy your day was.

he scoots closer to you, enveloping you into his arms, holding you tightly. he presses his lip to your ear. “i know that you don’t wanna talk about it… but i want you to know something,” he murmurs.

your heart stills, suddenly feeling wide awake. “keiji…”

“i love you,” he says. “so much. it gets hard and i understand that, but… you are so much more amazing than you think.”

you feel your face get warm, a new profound sense of worth filling you up. a sense of great love. at 3 in the morning.

“you’re smart and so, so gorgeous. anyone would be lucky to have someone like you,” he praises, making you smile. “remember when we first met at that coffee shop and i tripped and spilled my drink all over your homework?”

you giggle, breathily, finally letting yourself speak, “and you i offered to buy me a new one?” you smile, eyes watering at the memory that felt like ages ago. “feels just like yesterday…”

he chuckles, nodding his head, “and then you just laughed at me, which was the best thing i’d ever heard in my life, by the way,” he sighed, reminiscing on the fond memory. “you know i’ve loved you since then? and… i’ll love you forever. everything about you. you don’t have to be afraid to tell me when you’ve had a bad day or to cry on my shoulder… that’s what i’m here for.”

you feel a single tear fall down your face as your heart swells in your chest, his soft spoken words continuing to pull at its strings.

“you’re so cheesy,” you joke, sniffling before letting out a breathy chuckle. “but… thank you, keiji. for being my rock and for making my life brighter. i love you so much.”

he scoffs, ignoring the way his stomach flutters and the apples of his cheeks burn, “look who’s being cheesy now,”

“okay, way to ruin the moment, keiji. i’m going back to bed.”

he laughs, “no, wait, i love you, too, let’s tal—“

“we can talk in the morning.” you groan, shrugging him off and curling back into a tiny ball.

“but—“

“goodnight, keiji.”

© all works belong to @planetrin 2021, please do not repost, modify, or translate any of my works on any platform

🏷 taglist (open): @darling-imobsessed @v-lleitie @spoofybun

the tyrant (i)

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: sukuna ryomen x reader

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬: 4,089

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭: arrange marriage, slow-burn yandere, polygamous marriage (cuz this is set in the old time, so yeah), mention of infertility, power imbalance, will get dark and unhinged in the next chap., etc.

𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: "you were the apple of Sukuna's eyes, the one who brought him solace and everything. The only thing you were incapable of was giving him a child, an heir he wished to spoil like he did to you."

𝐚/𝐧: always new and unfinished content I be spewing out in my WIP drafts. It's endless. I really am one of those writers that would go away and just come back to drop something then go away again 🙃. Some of things I type out, I did some research on it and the rest are not. Almost forgot that I got inspired by a show I watched so some parts got me rapidly writing it.

𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐

"What do you mean she's not able to conceive?" Sukuna asks, his trained eyes sharpening on the doctor, who notices his reaction and yelp in fear as they immediately bow forward with their forehead and hands touching the floor.

"P-Please pardon my incompetent!" They spoke out, voices shaking. "I have diagnosed Lady (Name) and found out that her pulse is too weak, her body temperature is low, and her estrogen level is also low..." The doctor wanted to say more, but their lips was sealed shut and Sukuna, whose unwavering gaze lingered on them, waited for them to continue with an irritated expression.

Sukuna: "Why aren't you continuing?"

The doctor once again jolted in their spot, "I fear this will affect her fertility rate!"

Sukuna: "You should've said so."

"My Lord?" They picked up their head and thought that Sukuna couldn't get anymore scarier than before, but they were wrong. The expression Sukuna wore was far more than dangerous; his eyes suddenly glazed over in vehement anger and burning rage. The doctor knew it wasn't directed toward them, but still, they couldn't help but feel a pit in their stomach.

Sukuna then used a hand to shoo them away, "Find a solution. Fast. I'll call you for progress." The doctor didn't need Sukuna to tell him if he failed; he knew what it meant if he could not live up to the expectation. His life. The doctor bid a farewell greeting and flew out of the Lord's room faster than any bird.

Outside the door, the doctor bumped into Lady Eisha, holding a tea tray. She gives the doctor a polite smile before entering the room, "Husband?" Sukuna, rubbing his face, opened his strawberry eyes and saw his principal wife. Eisha is a doll with porcelain skin and demure features; she was cladded in the finest and most expensive silks and jewelry that could feed a whole village for a year. Even though she wasn't initially Sukuna's first choice to be the principal wife, it was *you*; his mother insisted that Eisha should be the one since she was from a notable family. But so were you. Sukuna wanted clarification from his mother regarding her great dislike towards you being the primary wife, but all it did was ignite her wrath. Therefore, his mother never answers him, and it displeases him greatly. To take you as his second wife and, in ranking too. He isn't going to give you anything less; he knows how to piss off his mother; Sukuna could follow her wish, doesn't mean he isn't going to fulfill it.

"Is there anything that distresses you?" Sukuna didn't answer her. Instead, he was still in his damper mood and mauling over what he had just heard today. Eisha focused on her husband and the tea she had set on the ground. She delicately pours Sukuna a cup, then inches closer to present him with the tea with a soft smile. Sukuna accepts the cup without as much as looking at Eisha. Sukuna brought the cup to his lips, testing the temperature and smelling the scented aroma of matcha.

Eisha could feel her smile drop a little. Sukuna never looked her way despite being married for five years; the only time he would look at her was when they were to consummate and fulfill their duty as husband and wife to produce an heir. So far, Eisha has given him a daughter only, and all the other five concubines have given him a child each or two along the way. While one or two of them were on their second or third pregnancy, there was you, who remained childless all these years. Despite being the second wife after Eisha, you were still the secret mockery within the harem. With no child, you were to remain powerless against the rest of the harem and Eisha. However, you shouldn't be underestimated from her point of view; Eisha couldn't help but feel the vying affection she had wanted for so long from Sukuna, only to be delivered towards you. With you holding the heart of Sukuna, everyone was to remain careful about how they spoke of you. If one lousy word slipped from someone's mouth and reached Sukuna's ear, they would incur his deadly animosity.

She doesn't know what Sukuna could see in you; you were a harlot vixen who never once appreciated an ounce of Sukuna's admiration whenever it was presented. All you did was throw it back at his face; your cold disposition and indifference were a crime in her mind.

"Mistress?" Your maid, Yumi, calls out to you in worry, her voice in a hushed whisper as she looks out at the door warily to see any obscuring shadows of people lurking outside. "How do you think the Lord would take about your news?"

While you remain calm, you settle down your needlework onto your lap and look ahead of you with an annoyed expression. "It's not my problem; no child means no ties to that man." You were so nonchalant about your situation that Yumi put her hands on your forearm and gripped it, but not strong enough to hurt you. "Still..." Yumi starts; she knows how much you dislike Sukuna but wouldn't speak it out loud for your safety. You set your embroidery aside and re-situated yourself in your seating position. Patting her hands with your free hand, you try to reassure Yumi for her sake. "Yumi, you worry too much about me that you haven't been sitting still for the last hour." Disarming her with a smile, you decided to switch topics with a pacifist voice, "So, how is the situation with Lord Itadori?"

At the mention of Yuji, you see how her expression change from worry to realization. Yumi's hands fly off your forearm immediately, and she plucks out a letter from her inner attire and hands it to you with two hands. You take the letter from her and unfold the content, eyes reading the words.

Yuji was Sukuna's younger half-brother, who was fifteen years old, compared to Sukuna, who was twenty-seven. When you put them together or side by side, there wasn't much of a difference in their appearances; if you could point out, Yuji would be the replica of Sukuna, but he is someone who has softer features and heart, unlike his sharper and cold-hearted older brother. You would have referred to Yuji's last name as Sukuna, but before the former Lord passed away, Yuji wished to keep his mother's maiden name since she was the only family member left of hers. He is such a filial son; if only he were the same age as his older brother, you would've married him instead in a heartbeat. But in the end, it didn't matter, you treated the young boy as a little brother and sent him a bi-weekly care package, and Yuji treated you as an older sister he never had despite having so many.

"What does the letter say, Mistress?" Yumi asked, peering at the letters that looked like nothing but indescribable chicken scratches.

"What do you think it says?" You retort the question right back at her, and she sheepishly smiles at you while scratching the back of her head. "I've taught you how to read and write, and the alphabet never stuck to you, did it?" To confirm your suspicion, Yumi made it more evident by messing with the hem of her attire. You want to eye roll at your adorable servant but hold it off with a sigh before giving her a brief explanation. "Yuji said he's doing well at the Gojo's compound; he's also having a nice time and has made friends with the Fushiguro's son and Nobara's daughter. While learning has been difficult for him since I'm not around to help him, Gojo-sensi was nice enough to dumb it down for him." You click your tongue and eye Yumi, "What's with you and Yuji not retaining anything?" Continuing to summarize the letter, you can't help but huff out a little laugh at what you read; Yuji tried to spell something but couldn't as it was retried and crossed out multiple times then he said something different. "He missed eating with me and mentioned that his Sensi wanted to meet me since it's rare for a (Surname) clan girl to be married off. The rest is him rambling about a pretty girl, and that's it."

"I also missed the young master's presence; if he were here, Lord Sukuna wouldn't be hounding you every chance he gets." Yumi mention, and you chuckle. Sukuna hates Yuji, and how you prefer his younger brother. Sukuna had made it known to make off and backhanded comments at Yuji in your being, even with Yuji's naivety to a certain extent; he was sensible enough to understand that his older half-brother didn't like him much. This made you defend the young boy, and in defense, you use the same manner Sukuna did to Yuji in calculated and halcyon quips. You miss the satisfaction of making the man bite his lips in frustration, a part of you wants to relive it again.

If you were someone else, he would've had your head skewered at the front of the gate of the Sukuna's estate as a warning for everyone to watch what they say to him.

Folding the letter and putting it back inside the envelope, you check the sun's position, and you see it is nearly noon. "Yumi, prepare my tea for me."

"Is that so?" An older woman raises a brow; she listens intently to what is being told in front of her ears. Eisha, sitting in front of her, telling her the dreading news of you not being able to conceive children from where she overheard the doctor from Sukuna's quarter in the hallway. Sukuna's mother, Hanami, plays it off, "Even if she failed to fulfill her duty as one of his wives, there are still the other concubines here that are avail." Hanami tried to pass it off as it was the will of fate you weren't granted, children.

"Mother, you're right, although I can't help but worry that this might affect his Lordship's health." Eisha expresses, and Hanami hum at her to go on, "He has been waiting for so long to sire a child with her and is filled with news that she couldn't. Thus I wonder if you could help?"

Hanami paused, giving her a look, "Help? Do you want me to help her? Even if I can, I'm unsure how effective I could be." Hanami worded herself to be a saint and fair in front of Eisha, but when it comes to you, she refuses to be in any part of your life. Anything else, it's disgust and hatred she had for you. If you were born from a different clan and not the one associated with your Aunt Iori Setsuko, formally known as (Surname) Setsuko, she would've helped you.

Eisha, who asked the question, wasn't sure what answer she was given, but she still felt a sense of elation; the fact that you were disregarded as useless stroked her ego. Even if she doesn't have Sukuna's affection yet, she has her mother-in-law, her backer, and support.

"By the way, how are you and my son faring? Another child from you would hold the line stable." Hanami didn't notice how Eisha's face turned wry for a second, and within a blink, it disappeared as she presented her mother-in-law with a smile. Eisha didn't need a reminder from Hanami that she needed a boy to hold the line of succession going.

"Ryomen and I are trying for another, but it's not easy as it seems as it was during the first time," Eisha told Hanami, who gasped as a hand flew to her lips worriedly.

Hanami reached across and held Eisha's hands and squeezed them, "We cannot have that; I have some remedies that could help you." Hanami went over to her drawer and pulled out a few bottles. She hands them over to Eisha, who pretends to look astonished, "This is Unkei-to; take a pill daily to help with your blood flow and circulation." Hanami then sat across from Eisha again, "It's to help regulate your body heat and menstruation cycle, also increasing your ovulation too."

After going on a tangent of talking, Eisha excuses herself and lets out a triumphant grin.

Hanami drops the facade of a loving and caring mother; she puts two fingers against her temple and rubs it in pain; she could feel a headache forming. Knowing the news that you weren't able to bear children does strike her heart cords in happiness, but your presence was still a little reminder of why you're here. For as long as Hanami has known Setsuko, your Aunt was a thorn in her side at the starting days of their youth as young teenagers. Hanami was hailed as the fair maiden of Japan until your Aunt Setsuko appeared and took her title and everything. Every woman from the (Surname) Clan was always regarded as having a prestigious and noble birth, a goddess. Rarely were they ever seen or shown to the public; anyone who was to be wedded or engage with the women was married to their family instead of the husband, per upon agreement. The same goes with the men; the (Surname) is very picky on who they union their children with.

The reason why their feud has ensued for so long was because of Sukuna Tsugahara, Hanami's now-late husband. At first, Hanami and Tsugahara were lovers, and until he met Setsuko that he was smitten and was willing to break off the engagement with her. Blinded by anger and resentment every day for it, Setsuko and Tsugahara got closer and closer until it was then they were set to be engaged that Hanami had pulled the rug beneath their feet. Both parties were stunned since Hanami was willing to pull every dirty stunt in her book until she got Tsugahara back into her arms, and she successfully did. She called him back because a night of trysts pretending to be Setsuko and Sukuna Ryomen resulted from it.

To say Setsuko was betrayed, Hanami wished for Setsuko to feel everything she felt.

Hanami had to give that woman a round of applause, though she knew that Setsuko's bitterness would never end and it would burn forever; sending you was uncalled for and a friendly reminder of 'you robbed me, I will do it right back.'

You were almost an uncanny image of your Aunt that Hanami thought she had seen the devil for a second. Even Tsugahara thought you were Setsuko, and he mistakenly called you her name. You have to correct him. More alarming was her only son, Sukuna Ryomen, whose pupils were blown wide from your beauty and disposition that she thought she was reliving her horrible days again. First, it was her husband who was smitten by Setsuko, now her son towards you.

Even if she successfully dissuades her son from taking you as the head wife, it doesn't stop you from being pampered day and night by both men. Tsugahara cherished you as if you were his daughter since he couldn't be with the one he loves, and Sukuna wouldn't leave you alone to breathe; even speaking ill of you is forbidden, which is an unwritten rule anyone should and have to know.

Hanami was disturbed by their behavior relating to you; you were their favorite. Everything you do is perfect in their eyes, and you would be excused and given leniency. She won't know if she should be thankful that you didn't take advantage of her husband and son's adoration, but she's, nevertheless, pissed that you have them wrapped around your fingers!

You seem to adore your father-in-law Tsugahara more than your husband.

"Now, what should I do?" Hanami asks no one in particular but herself. She didn't want to indulge in the past anymore; she didn't care about Eisha; Hanami needed Eisha to give birth to a legitimate son to secure and solidify her position as the wife. After all, she didn't give her those pills for anything; she needs you out of the picture, even if it'll take time.

You thought peace was always an option without Sukuna hovering over you for the last few days, but not today. The feeling of disdain shoots you; the doctor and Sukuna are in your chamber. Yumi was nervously seated behind you, observing the scene, trying not to be as alarmed as possible. She fears Sukuna, but her caring and worried nature for you outweighs what she feels for your husband. Meanwhile, Sukuna was puffing a tobacco pipe by the window, his face resting against his knuckles. He was side-eying the situation. Your bodily functions matter to him that he took mere time off to hear what the doctor had to say.

The doctor diagnosing you took the thin cloth from your wrist after retaking your pulse. Sukuna had insisted that you were not to be touched by anyone but himself since he's your husband, and you were not to be grouped with common filth either. His other women in the harem.

"Well?" Sukuna lingers his gaze on the male, who clears his throat in apprehension.

The doctor shifted a bit in his spot; he had found a new habit since being under the scrutiny eyes of Sukuna. "As the results from before, Lady (Name) has low body heat and chances of conceiving a child. I had brought back a drug that will help improve her vitality over time to help her chance of conceiving." The male went to his medical box and searched for the miracle medicine. After a few seconds, he pulls out a small purple sash. The doctor unties the strings before carefully dumping a small ball of leaves onto their palm the size of a mini rosebud. You could smell the scent of ginger in it, along with many others. "This was specially made for Lady (Name); it's infused and compressed with..." They went on a tangent confabulation in which herbs were gathered from the mountains, and while what was brought from abroad, together, he went with the effects of it.

"Instead of telling me, get started." Sukuna cuts them off with impatient, and the doctor changes course and requests a pot of boiled water. You instructed Yumi to go to the kitchen with a slight nod. You will play along with whatever plan Sukuna has for you.

Yumi returns a quarter later, tray in both hands. She sat and kneeled on the ground, pouring a bowl of hot water into the ceramic. The doctor then proceeded to drop the ball of leaves into the cup as it unraveled openly. The water slowly changes its color until a dark golden hue is presented.

"It's ready," the doctor announces, plucking the leaves out and gesturing for you to pick up the bowl. You took the cup with the slow motion of a lady and brought it up to your nose. Sukuna watches your action; he sees how you peer into the bowl before taking a small sip, there was a slight twitch you showed, and he guessed it was probably bitter. You down the medicine in one go as you tilt it upwards until nothing was left beside a few residues of leaf particles. There was a strong bitterness in your mouth when you set the bowl back on the small table.

Sukuna dumps the rest of the tobacco out the window by tapping it before setting the pipe aside. He gives the doctor and Yumi a look, indicating that they should leave the room. The doctor didn't need to be told twice before he left the room in a rush, and Yumi hastily picks the bowl and put it on the tray before walking out of the room, not before casting you a glance of anxiety.

"Now," Sukuna rose from his seat, and you do the same, trying to cut him off from meeting you halfway. You blatantly wish to be anywhere else but here with him. It was because of orders from Sukuna to have you confined for a few days to find out what happened to you that it disrupted your daily activities to go out in public to help out the misfortunes and events you voluntarily volunteered yourself to escape his clutches. "Are you that eager to get away, love?" You didn't get very far, as it took a few strides to catch up. Sukuna uses a hand to grasp your wrist and pull you to his hard chest while one arm loops itself to your waist, his fingers lovingly playing with the outline of your hip, drumming and tapping. The man lays his chin on your shoulder while the smell of tobacco clings onto him, drafting towards your nose; Sukuna softly inhales your scent, lulling his mind into tranquility as he closes his eyes blissfully.

This made you turn your head subtly to the side to avoid him, but this made Sukuna think this was an invitation to dig his nose more profoundly into the crevice of your neck. A soft rumble could be heard from his throat. "I may confine you to stay within the castle, but that doesn't mean you have to stay in here." Here. What Sukuna had meant what that being on 'house arrest' doesn't mean you make it a habit to stay in your room.

"You didn't specify where to be confined, so I ought to stay somewhere, and here isn't bad at all." Retort with calmness but a subtle jab, Sukuna's hold tightens a bit more, not much to your liking. But it loosens as it comes to, "Your presence is greatly missed in the mess hall." You wanted to snark back that it's highly doubted; with you gone from the dining table, everyone would tell tales full of travesty of you in high and low, not in front of him, but when he's not around. The only person who would miss you was Sukuna himself.

Grabbing Sukuna's wrist, you untangle yourself from his grasp and put space between you. It's getting unbearable; you could only tolerate being in so much of his existence and him touching you. "Lift my temporary ban; then I'll join." You negotiate, and even with your back still turning against him, Sukuna can't help but grant you your wish. "That I can do, and I'm happy to see your face once more among the common ones." Sukuna moves in front of you; he grabs a lock of your hair and kisses it. He drops it before brushing his thick fingers against your tresses and trying to slide them behind your ear. You smack Sukuna's palm away with a tap, not enough to offend him, but enough to turn him away.

Your action amuses him; Sukuna wasn't sure how long you would resist him. Despite being his favorite for five years when he first laid eyes on you during the selection, even if you don't want him now, he will make sure you'll be him for the rest of eternity. He's a very patient man with many crafts underneath his sleeve. "Make sure to be there on time."

"How can I forget you're a punctual man," maintaining the underlying impasse, Sukuna chuckles when you look up to meet his eyes.

Sukuna turned around and exited your chamber; it wasn't until he was out of sight and mind that you inhaled deeply before exhaling that Yumi cane back into the room like a blur. She fretted over you like a mother hen that your social energy was draining fast already. Putting up with Sukuna always makes you mentally tired; keeping the farce up day and night from all angles isn't what you want.

You were only here per request and out of respect to your Aunt Setsuko, who had raised you because of the early passing of your parents. Marrying into the Sukuna family does have its benefits, although it's not what you had initially had in mind. You held back your thoughts when agreeing to be shipped off into an arranged marriage with Sukuna, the only son your Aunt Setsuko was deadset on having you marry before you were even born.

Maybe you should've asked for the reason before agreeing; now it's an endless headache you're dealing with.

“atsumu, can i ask you a question?” you asked over the phone, stopping the continued thoughts that your best friend was sharing with you.

“yeah go ahead,” he said.

“well, have you ever kissed anyone before?” you felt stupid asking — especially as you were certain atsumu has probably kissed tons of people before but just in case you were wrong, you did want to know.

“kissed somebody?” he retorted with a scoff, “no, i haven’t actually. have you?”

you shook your head and even though he couldn’t see your face, he could tell your answer by the miserable sigh you projected over the phone, “look at us, two best friends who’ve never been in a proper relationship or kissed anyone, how pathetic.”

“it’s not pathetic, we just haven’t gotten round to doing it yet, that’s all” he countered, “but…”

“but..?”

“we could. kiss i mean, each other.” he suggested and you splutter in surprise, definitely not expecting that, “it would be a platonic kiss of course, just two friends who’ve never kissed anybody before, kissing each other.”

“that would be more pathetic tsumu,” you exclaim, “it’s late anyways, i’ll call you later okay?” you hear him hum in agreement before you end the call, ready to go to sleep.

but you couldn’t sleep, it was impossible for you to do so when atsumu’s absurd suggestion lingered on your mind. when you originally asked the question, you didn’t even think about the idea of you kissing your best friend at all; you just wanted to know if he had kissed anyone.

so when he did propose that you two should ‘platonically kiss’ each other, at first it seemed wild but as you laid in your bed that’s all you could think about — how you didn’t hate the idea of kissing your best friend.

“atsumu, i need to talk to you,” you said on the phone as the clock struck 2 am.

“to what do i owe the pleasure y/n, are you calling about my previous offer?” he joked and you could practically feel the smirk growing on his face.

“yeah about that…i was actually thinking that maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea?”

“oh really?” he asked and you hum in affirmation, “well when can we do it?”

“i didn’t know we had to plan when we did it,” you teased “can’t we just do it whenever?”

“yeah whenever, sure” he agreed “anyways it’s late and i’ve got things to do, you should go get some beauty sleep not like you need it or anything.”

atsumu hung up the phone before you could even register what he said, until when you finally rested your eyes and your imagination ran wild with sights of you and your best friend together in an actual romantic relationship. it was an unsettling thing to think about, how much you didn’t hate it but there was always potential in you reading too much into this and atsumu only seeing this as a platonic kiss.

after another hour of deep thinking, you decided to call atsumu again, “hey atsumu.”

“three calls in one night, i must be special,” he said with a chuckle.

“i just wanted to say, about earlier—“

“can you hold that thought a second y/n,” he said “i just need to do one quick thing.”

you hear a knock at your door, and question who on earth would be knocking at 3 am and when you open it, you were surprised to see atsumu standing proudly on your doorstep, phone next to his ear still.

“one second tsumu, there’s an idiot at my door,” you said hanging up the phone and atsumu gasps putting his hand over his heart in mock hurt, “what are you doing here?”

“i’m here to collect my kiss.”

“but you live an hour away,” you emphasised

“and it took me an hour to get here,” he responded smartly, “you did say, we can just do it ‘whenever’ and since i’m here now we can do it here.”

“here?” you question and he nodded, “right now,” with him nodding again. “okay,” and you didn’t know why you agreed, but you knew there was no point in having atsumu travelling all this way to end up with no kiss at all.

when his lips pressed against yours, it was awkward — at first — with your body becoming stiff in nervousness, scared of doing the wrong thing and atsumu sensed that his hands moving around your waist easing you into relaxation and you both fell into a comfortable rhythm as you kissed.

as atsumu pulled his lips off yours, you felt sad already missing the feeling of his lips against yours. “so…” he said awkwardly, “how was that?”

“it was fine,”

“just fine?” he repeated with a growing smirk, knowing that the kiss was definitely more than fine.

“i’m going to bed tsumu, bye” you said quickly, shutting the front door in atsumu’s face ignoring the loud “hey!” he yells from the other side as you run upstairs to your bed.

you assumed atsumu left and you were ready to go to sleep trying to erase your brain over the best kiss you’ve ever had —the only kiss you ever had but before your head could finally rest against your pillow you get a call from atsumu.

“y/n,”

“yes?”

“answer one thing for me really quick,” he asked “was that kiss platonic or romantic?”

“uhh,” you were caught off guard by his question and you knew your answer would definitely influence how your friendship progresses after today but you felt more confident answering knowing that it was over the phone so you wouldn’t have to deal with whatever unwanted reaction atsumu may give you in person, “romantic, it was romantic. if that’s what you wan-“

the call cuts out, and you hear the loudest celebratory cheer from outside your house and you immediately smile at how adorable atsumu was. even though it wasn’t your intention, you were happy to go to sleep having had your first kiss and getting a boyfriend all in the same day.

an: yes this is a repost apologies to the 30 people who’ve interacted w this I hope you enjoy it let me know what you think of this drabble which re reading it as I post it for the second time I hate BUT I hope you love it people

Reblogs are very appreciated

— when you first call him by his nickname

characters; kuroo, yaku, bokuto, ushijima, and hinata

genre; fluff

notes; send in requests please!! also, reblogs appreciated <3

— kuroo tetsurou

he was shocked at first, but he really liked this new nickname

damn, he was in love with you, and the nickname you gave him

you said it so casually too, like you called him this often

“hey tetsu, can you get me a glass of water please?”

but he absolutely loves the nickname ???? he finds it so adorable !

he forbids you from calling him ‘tetsurou’ anymore.

if you don’t call him tetsu, or by a pet name, he isn’t responding

— yaku morisuke

he was in total shock at first

did you just call him by a new nickname???

his heart skipped seven beats, you’re def gonna be the death of him

but like you said it so nonchalantly?! like you’ve been calling him this forever

“hey mori, can you hand me that bowl please?”

he loves it tho, obsessed almost

tho he would never admit how much he loves it

— bokuto koutarou

he almost cried tears of joy

it was like the cutest thing ever !! and they way you said it ? ugh is he in love even more

his heart grew three times bigger, didn’t even know his heart could get any bigger

“hey kou, can you toss me that pillow?”

he fell in love with the nickname instantly

especially from you ?? addicted

like, you can’t call him anything but pet names and the new nickname

— ushijima wakatoshi

he didn’t really think much of it at first, you were always calling silly nicknames

but secretly, it made his heart flutter

a new nickname ?? specially for him !?? yes please

“hey toshi, have you seen my mug?”

the nickname was so cute,

it’s simple but adorable, def is favorite one yet

pls he wants you to call him that all the time

— hinata shoyo

his heart started doing flips

the new nickname was the cutest thing ever

and you made it sound so natural?? omg omg his heart

“hey sho, can you pass me the remote?”

his heart can’t take this cuteness

he absolutely is in love with the new nickname ??? his new fav thing

taglist (fill out this form to be added): @tetsusbbygrl @escapenightmare @bngtnparkjm @maipxilia @itsbrittneybsh @arashi-onannoko @kenmaslov3r

“WELCOME TO COTEA CAFE!”

Note:

I'm so sorry for not posting anything for two weeks, I just got busy with school so I couldn't stay on tumblr for too long! I made sure to type every now and then so now I finally finished typing this chapter out! I hope this is long enough to compensate. :'D

—› I DON'T POST IN ANY PLATFORM EXCEPT IN THIS ONE!

Synopsis:

Your cafe had been getting a few attention from the playable characters, you are glad and feeling happy, but you did not expect for a group of people to be inside of your small cafe. In fact, they looked like they weren't the types to go inside of a cafe just to eat something.

Genshin characters x fem!reader.

Warning: grammatical errors, SPOILERS, inaccurate lore, not proofread, swearing, ooc.

Part: one, two, three, four, five

It was safe to say that both Tighnari and Cyno are okay, however, the fact that they managed to get inside of your cafe is something you are never ready to hear for so you didn't bother to ask any one of them.

"And then aether grabbed paimon like this!"

Cyno, Tighnari, and the others that came from mondstadt watched the floating creature in amusement as she tried her best re-act what her traveler companion did, she even asked you for a cup so she can demonstrate properly.

"I see, did he hurt you? You're not injured, are you?"

Your question made her stop, tilting her head and checking her body for any injury that she can use to make you upset towards the traveler.

"I'm okay." She exclaimed, rather dejectedly as she puff out her cheeks towards her traveling companion.

After that, you looked at the blond, raising an eyebrow when he discreetly avoided eye contact with you. He turned his head towards the door instead as he felt like a scolding incoming from you.

"Go to the counter, kneel, and repent for what you did to the poor paimon, aether." The stern tone on your voice made his body stiff.

He was gonna protest, but as soon as the thought of disobeying your command crossed his mind, made him lost his control over his body, he paled at that fact as his own body move towards the counter, facing the wall as he kneeled down on the floor.

To say that the others are surprised, is a something that you can understand.

You did not expect him to do what you had just said.

"Anyways," you cleared your throat, "What can I get you, good sirs? Table for two? Four? Or separate table from those two?"

Cyno stepped in front, not bothering to ask questions about the sudden teleportation inside of your cafe.

"Table for four."

You nodded your head, guiding them towards the next table beside the four citizen from the city of freedom. Your presence making them tremble on their seat and this didn't go unnoticed by the general mahamatra.

It was chaotic after that, paimon teasing aether was one of the thing you didn't expect that you'll enjoy. Surprisingly, Tighnari liked laing, pinakbet and pancit bihon from the menu, on the other hand, Cyno preferred pork sisig, ginataang gulay, and langka.

When their order are served, you went back to your desk, just beside the sitting aether who is still on the floor, but not kneeling anymore, he's just accompanying you as you read whilst slowly munching on the pandesal with malunggay, partnered with the good ol' kopiko brown.

"Uhm, excuse me." You perked up at the sound of Jean's voice, she sounded so timid and uncomfortable as she tapped the top of the desk to get your attention.

"Yes?" You asked, looking over her and quickly noticing that she's pointing at the menu.

"May I order a take out?" She smiled, albeit a little forceful.

Your expression brightens up, "Of course! What would you like to have?"

She immediately scrambled closer to you as soon as you opened the menu, her eyes scanned the surface with inks, eyebrows furrowed as she think hard on what to take home for her little sister.

"If you're gonna order for Barbara, paimon suggest taking halo-halo or adobong manok for her! If not, you can choose lechon na manok and suman since it taste good too!" The floating creature said as she look over on Jean's shoulder whilst tapping the woman on the shoulder as she says the food recommendation.

"Seems like you know almost everything on the menu." Kaeya said, walking over to the desk with the same smile plastered on his face.

"Not almost, paimon knows everything (name)'s cafe could offer, you know!" She pat her chest, seemingly proud of herself as she smiled broadly towards the captain with a mischievous glint on her eyes.

"And miss (name) approved of that?" Kaeya asks, not willing to back down while putting an emphasis on the word 'miss' to show respect and to silently tell the floating creature to stop being friendly with you.

"Of course she did! Right, (name)?!" Sadly, the little creature couldn't take a hint and continued addressing you with your given name.

While preparing what Jean asked for a take out, you nodded your head to whatever she was saying because frankly, you are quite busy yourself. You agreed with paimon's whims which caused for a silent war to start between her and the cavalry captain.

Both Diluc and Rosaria could only watch from the back as they shoot disappointed glances towards the gorgeous dark skinned man. (He's beautiful, anyone who says otherwise can get the fuck out of this story.)

Cyno and Tighnari watched from their seat as the four citizen from a different nation— mind you, they already know them due to the expedition from a couple of months ago, but refused to acknowledge them— cause a ruckus inside of the cafe, they are still eating, savoring the mouthful flavor of the dishes they had picked from your menu while watching the commotion takes place.

It didn't take long for you to prepare the take out, in just a couple of minutes, you are already handing the paper bags towards the acting grand master.

"Thank you.." Jean trailed off, unsure of what to call you.

"(Name), you can call me (name)." You informed her which made Kaeya and Paimon turn their attention on you.

"Why would you let them call you by your name?"

"Can I also call you that, miss?"

Their outburst came out at the same time, voice loud and clearly competing against with one another, but you didn't bother calming them down, instead..

"Sure, you can call me by name as well." You politely agreed, containing your excitement to yourself.

Kaeya cheered, paimon went slacked against your shoulder.

It was clear who won that silent war between them and it was quite a sight to see the captain cheering to himself as he smirked towards the dejected paimon.

The commotion died down as Jean gave you mora for their meal and for the take out, it was quite cheap, Diluc's words, not yours so he added a pouch of mora towards their payment— he also enjoyed the meal, a lot, that's why he's not scared to spend money to show his appreciation towards your small cafe.

"Please come again!" You called out.

How?

They wanted to ask you, but they knew that you wouldn't be able to answer since they came through the door of Angel's share's cellar after all.

They could only wish to visit your cafe once more, the delicious food you served them made them feel warm and giddy inside which they wish to feel again, if teyvat would allow it.

"See you tomorrow, Cyno! Tighnari!"

Paimon called out, the two of them were the last customer for the evening since Aether will stay by the second floor, he begged asked you if he can stay and he almost took a leap in the air when you agreed.

"Let me show your guys to your room so you can start preparing for sleep as I clean downstairs." You told them as you lead them to their room.

"Can paimon sleep with you?" The floating creature asked, "Paimon wants to give Aether some alone time since he is quite loud when he sleeps."

An embarrassed look cross the blonde's face, silently and glaring menacingly at his traveling companion.

"Of course." You agreed, smiling as Aether tried to swat paimon, but he missed when she floats away, sticking her tongue out while floating beside you.

"This is your room." You told aether as you opened the door and stepped inside with the two of them following, "There are fresh stitched clothes over there, no one has used those yet so you can be the first one to do it."

"The bathroom is over there, there's a shower and a bathtub, warm and cold water are separated just in case, the extra pillows and blankets are inside of that cabinet, feel free to take out some if you're not comfortable with the current ones." After telling him where everything else are, you excused yourself while carrying paimon on your arms.

"You have to wash up too so do it while I'm cleaning downstairs, okay?" You told her, of course, you made sure to tell her where everything are to avoid getting your place ransacked.

Now, after telling paimon to take care of herself and sleep, you took your time placing the chairs on top of tables, upside down, to prevent any dust from accumulating on top of the wooden surface.

You are humming a song that came from your world, light and quiet steps were made as you move around the room, broom and dustpan in hand.

Sweeping, the dusts slowly gathered into the pan and you are more than happy to tap the dustpan against the trash.

You walked inside of the kitchen to take the usual rag you use to wipe the dusts off from the furniture and bookshelves of the cafe, you were busy washing the cloth with soap when you heard the familiar sound coming from the door.

Ring!

Ring!

Ring!

Oh? Did you forgot to close and flip the sign of the cafe?

You are not scared, no, of course not. For all you know, you could kill whoever has a malicious intent towards you, it's not a joke for someone to have multiple elements on their grasps after all.

"I'll be there in a minute!" You still called out, despite not knowing if they are a customer or not.

You continued humming, the rag on your hand as you walk out of the kitchen, however, the familiar faces of the people that greeted you made you stop in your track.

"Oh, how are you in this lovely evening?" Pantalone's voice is smooth and deep, almost sounding fancy as he politely greeted you with the business smile he always wore, "I'm quite afraid that me and my.. Companions, are lost, can you give us directions?"

Lies. You thought, you've been here for business and shits.

"I'm so sorry, I'm new to this place as well, I just opened up my cafe a few ago you see." You said, as politely as you could while giving him the same practiced poised smile that you would give to a customer.

You quickly took notice that they lack the two fatui harbingers, Ajax and Pulcinella.

"What a shame." Pantalone commented while his eyes racked the place as he took in the fact that you are closing, "Since this is a cafe, you don't mind us staying for a few drinks and meals, do you?"

At the mention of them ordering, your face brightens up, "Of course not, sir! Let me place down the chairs for each and one of you." You placed the rag on the desk, skimming through the floor and you held your hand out to reach for the chairs, but a voice called out.

"No need." Arlecchino firmly stated, "They can do it."

"Yes?" You blinked, looking towards Dottore and Pierro as they both stepped closer before taking the chairs off the table and actually placed it down on the floor, quite gently.

"No need to be tense, we're just here to have a meal~" A melodic voice came from behind of Capitano and Sandrone, "I'll be sitting next to the Jester!"

You saw Columbina emerged from the two, her seemingly silky and long hair getting dragged against the floor as she took a step closer to the tallest man of the bunch. She sat down beside him, smiling.

"Okay.. How about you, sirs.. And ma'ams..?" You asked the group of people standing on the door.

"I'll separate myself. Another table, please." Sandrone spoke, her eyes staring at you as if she's judging your existence before looking away, quite prideful on her part.

Capitano didn't spoke any word and just waltzed his way towards the Damsellete, he sat down beside her without uttering nor making a sound, only nodding towards you to let you know that your presence has been acknowledged.

You hastily placed the chairs on the floor, unsure if someone else will take a seat on Sandrone's table.

Before any fight or commotion could escalate, you decided to bring them the menu so they can start ordering. You didn't expect for them to sit still and not get into an argument since it was known world wide that the fatui harbingers aren't in good terms with the others.

You're thankful for the peace though.

"Hmm, I don't know how to pronounce any of these.. Mind helping me, beautiful?" Pantalone asked, eyes flickering towards your body from the menu.

You unintentionally let out a squeak, not expecting him, out of all the harbingers to call you.. That.

"Yes, sir." You replied, the same practiced poised smile on your lips as you chant the names of the food from your cafe's menu, eyes never leaving the inked surface as you read the names out loud for the other harbingers.

It took a while since you got a bunch of meals, desserts, pastries, delicacies and beverages thrown into the menu.

"Well then, I'd have bicol express, crispy pata, sinigang na baboy with halo halo." Pierro said, closing the menu on his large hands and placed it on top of table. He ordered a lot, but not as much as paimon's orders.

You quickly jotted it down, eyes focusing onto the sticky notes on your palm as you sweat bullets, feeling the stares of Columbina, Arlecchino, Sandrone and Pantalone on you. You want to ignore their stares and you will do so with all your will power.

".. Adobong pusit, bopis, tapsilog, kopiko brown." Capitano's voice was deep. It sounded so deep and masculine that you ended up flinching on your spot, you have heard that The Captain might have a deep voice, but not this attractively deep.

Shakily jotting it down, you tried to keep the poised smile on your face as you respectfully looked away from him.

"I'll have the palabok, suman, the mango ice candy and.. Ooh, this carbonara sounds nice too~" Columbina cooed, smiling expectantly at you, although, you didn't see it which made her puff out her cheeks.

"Pancit canton, extra big, pancit, pancit bihon, pandesal and black coffee." Dottore said, grinning towards your direction as you raised an eyebrow at his interesting choice of meal for the evening.

You wrote The Doctor's and The Damsellete's orders on your note before hearing another voice from behind you.

"Two leche flan, three order of taho, one order of ginataang bilo-bilo and earl grey tea." Sandrone stated, handing you the menu and sitting properly against her robot's arms whilst ultimately ignoring her colleagues' look of suspicion when her gaze lingered a little longer on you.

"Puto, Bibingka, Kutsinta, Mango Graham Taho? I'll have that, ensaymada, pan de coco, pichi-pichi, and black coffee." Arlecchino's orders are all sweets but manages to balance it out with the coffee as her drink, you could only write her orders down on the note along with Sandrone's.

"Lechon kawali, inihaw na liempo and tinola, this one looks like it would bring warmth onto my stomach, I'm quite famished so I need its broth, would you mind that?" Pantalone asked, tapping his gloved finger against the wooden surface of the table as he smiled at you.

"No, sir." You replied, eyes focused on the note as you jot down his orders.

"Oh, and please add any drink that you think would go perfectly with my meal." Another smile offered on your way yet got ignore due to your eyes never leaving the piece of sticky paper.

"Of course, sir." Again, another polite response, "Would that be all for you good sirs and ma'ams?"

There was a series a of yes and grunts to answer your question before you hurriedly made your way over to the kitchen and closed the door as soon as you stepped inside. You leaned against the back of the door, heart beat racing and breath hitching at the back of your throat.

Why is the fatui harbingers on your cafe?

You could only silently hope for Aether and Paimon to be quiet upstairs, taking a well-deserved rest instead of going downstairs to check up on you. You don't want them to meet the harbingers yet, especially when the traveler hasn't meet any one of them except for Tartaglia and Signora.

For now, you need to start working on the meals, desserts and beverages from the harbingers if you want to see another day in teyvat.

You could only hope for the best outcome of this situation, you wouldn't like to resort to violence after all.

Tag lists: @okamikishiroyu @mikiafina @esthelily @persephone-kore-law @bloop-booop @victoria1676 @lordbugs @yumi-genshin-writer @yandere-city @sarah22447 @chaoticfivesworld @whisperingwinters @iamapotatoe @leeyanyanyaaan @iruiji @angstylittleb1tch @we-wo-we-wo @mikokage11 @crinklypink

These are the users I can't tag for some reason, but I would still put this here!

@observation-subject-753 @cyberrmish @zomerlovesme @maddysflower @kirara4170suiiz

© kunichigo

This the good shiz right here *proceeds to munch harder and with more concentration*.

SHIGARAKI FLUFF (BWZ)

⤷ Requested by @sscarchiyo + requests are open!!

B=beauty - What do they admire about their s/o? What do they think is beautiful about them?

⤷ Shigaraki really admires your smile. He doesn’t know why, but every time you smile at him, (maybe you could be smiling at the fact that he looks good in his new outfit) he starts to feel all warm and fuzzy inside. At times he thought it was some kind of sickness but he finally acknowledged the true reason behind those feelings he kept having. The second thing he admires about you is your hands. He tends to stare at your hands…A LOT and when he does this, he likes to imagine your soft and silky hands gently holding his face as you kiss him. Cute right?

W= wild Card - A random Fluff Headcanon.

⤷ Shigaraki really enjoys when you hug and baby him. Like for some reason your touch is very motherly to him in a way. Your hugs are very warm and reassuring which makes him feel very safe and even vulnerable when feeling your embrace

Z= zeal - Are they willing to go to great lenghts for the relationship? If so, what kind of?

⤷ Shigaraki is definitely willing to go great lengths for you. Wanting to overthrow the entire hero system?? or even better…wanting the hearts of both past and current number one heroes?? Consider it done. You’re his queen and he’ll do nearly the impossible to please her majesty <3

Tag list: @childeluv @vynu @hoshiikos @hoetachiofficial @uncrytears @infxrity @ilyrind0u @milliumizoomi @maiixu @mattsunbae

︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿︿

©Milkyofficial2021 - all rights reserved. Do not repost or translate my works anywhere!! Actions will be made if it happens

💋Single Dad Zhongli | A Beautiful Beginning

Warning: None (SFW)

Pairing: Single Dad!Zhongli X Fem!Reader

Mia's notes: wtf...I wrote 8,314 words for something. Like it took me weeks to write 10k words for a project I'm working on and I speed wrote this in 2 days fufufu. Anyways here is the first part of Single Dad Zhongli!! First part...I have to go through this a good 10 more times for the other characters...fuck. Anyways hope you enjoy reading this! Reblogs are appreciated! Love you guys!!

WC: 8.3k

When you get a look at him walking down the street in his turtleneck sweater and blazer, with his hair flowing in a perfect low ponytail, amber eyes practically glowing golden in the sunlight and that dashing smile on his lips, you’d think he was a god who had descended upon the earth to grace everyone with his presence.

He’s the ideal man; well mannered with his gentlemanly gesture, a silky deep voice that had you entrapped in his knowledgable talks of history and the sort, and how can we forget about his tall build and great looks? Really a one in a million kind of man.

Men and women admired how he carried himself during formal events, a wine glass in his hand and a warm smile on his face as he entertained the crowd, even though it wasn’t him hosting, most of the time.

During the day, he’s usually deep into his work, analysing various rock samples and writing down his reports, pushing the thin metal reading glasses up the bridge of his nose without his concentration flickering the slightest. Sometimes his eyes would flicker to the felt framed picture standing on his desk, him with two little kids in his arms, the three of them grinning widely.

When Zhongli is in job mode, stopping him is almost an impossible feat since he’s always so engrossed in the rocks that lay on the table.

His job as a lead geologist, working at the Natural History Museum never felt like a job to him, since his passion was in understanding the mysteries and beauties of Earth. History had always interested him ever since he was a child.

He’d often been invited to various exhibitions with other well-known people, and whenever he opened his mouth to talk of the beauty of the cor lapis or the noctilucous jade, a crowd gathered around him.

His job was well paying, really well paying. He had an apartment in one of the richer parts of town and if anyone ever had the pleasure of being invited to one of the parties he hosted, they’d be in awe of the sleek interiors and various geodes that decorated the rooms.

Everyone loved him for who he was, loved him so much that they’d even offer to pay for his meal if he ever forgot his wallet at home, an event that occurred one too many times. Of course, he would send a gift basket to their homes as a form of thanks.

Out of all the people who loved him, there were two little angels whose love surpassed everyone else’s, and who he loved in equal -possibly greater- amounts. His daughter of 7, Ganyu and his younger son of 3, Xiao.

He tries his best to balance his job and kids, and it shows. He always tried to take out time for his two children, making sure to come home on time to eat dinner with them and tuck them in, reading them their favourite bedtime stories and kissing them goodnight.

If ever he couldn’t make it home due to reasons, his assistant and kind-of babysitter, Aether was always there to take care of the kids. He was practically their elder brother by now, with how often he was with the kids, having known them for over 2 years.

Xiao, his little son, was a very naughty boy. Always throwing a fit and making life harder for Zhongli, and Aether whenever the poor man was left to care for the child. He wants the same book read to him every night, he wants 3 kisses before he sleeps and he must have his dragon stuffed toy or else…

Zhongli made a note to start disciplining Xiao since he was to start going to daycare soon, and he would have to behave well over there. Maybe he needs a little motivation. Something sweet…

To stop Xiao from crying about how the green paint didn’t colour his hair green permanently or how his feet were Missing when he put on his shoes, simply pass him a bowl of sweet almond tofu. In an instant, his sobs would dissipate as he starts stuffing his tiny mouth with the dessert. Zhongli would find it so amusing at times, giggling while wiping the syrup off of Xiao’s little lips.

Ganyu, his elder child, was mature much beyond her age. She loved drawing, loved doodling flowers and deer, like sketches littering her art books. Zhongli was always filled with pride whenever she showcased some of her artworks to his guests, enjoying how they gushed over her skill.

She loved playing with her dolls and dressing them up, saying that when she grows up, she’s going to make pretty dresses for her dolls to wear. She even promised her papa that she would make him a pretty princess gown and Zhongli laughed heartily, patting her head and telling her that he’d be looking forward to that day.

Ganyu was a quiet child and didn’t really like going to school since there were so many kids everywhere. Zhongli was there to comfort her, dropping her off at school and telling her to have a great day. He would also personally ensure that her lunch is packed and her bag has her homework.

First grade went smoothly, she even made a friend, Keqing. Zhongli was happy for her, seeing her open up and enjoy school. On a random day during second grade, she went in all excited, brighter than the sun that morning. But when Zhongli came to pick her up in the afternoon, a little(much) later than usual, his heart broke to see her crying figure curled in the lap of some woman sitting on the stairs at the main gate of the school. A really…pretty woman.

With work and his children, the question of finding love again… never came up.

Well, he did get tricked into going on blind dates, all thanks to his stupid friend Childe. But it just never worked out. All the women he met were peculiar. Some of them very obviously wanted him for his wealth, some of them just wanted to have a good time, and then some who he thought were nice, they just couldn’t handle taking care of children so fresh into the relationship.

Maybe he just wasn’t meant to have a lover again. Well, he did think he needed one nor did he think he could add romantic relations to his tight schedule. He had his sweet angels, he had his work. That was his life.

The desire to find love had long flickered away, all being left was the smoke coming from a dying candle.

But something sparked in him when that pretty woman raised her head and made eye contact with him, her smile so warm and serene.

“Hello. Do you happen to be Ganyu’s father?” You softly smiled at the man as he approached you in long, hurried strides. The school grounds were empty and the sun was almost setting down the horizon. Zhongli was very, very late that day. He gave a quick nod and kneeled in front of you, reaching to touch the shoulders of his quivering daughter.

“Angel? What’s wrong?” He tried prying her off you but all she did was shake her head and dig her nose deeper into your neck, clutching the neckline of your lilac tee in her small fingers. Zhongli was taken aback. His daughter was refusing his embrace?

His eyes searched yours for an answer as you shushed the crying child and patted her hair. “She’s upset that you arrived…later than the other parents. She thought you forgot about her.” Your brows furrow when her crying increases at your words. Zhongli sighed, a small smile appearing on his lips a second later.

He mouthed a thank you while sitting beside you so that his daughter could get a better view of him. “Ganyu, my little angel. I’m sorry for coming late, I promise I’ll buy you some ice cream to make up. Don’t you want to go home now?” He whispered, dropping his head down for him to look into her eyes, something he couldn’t do because of how snuggly she had been wrapped in your arms, face hidden against your skin. When he reached to cradle her red cheeks, Ganyu swatted her father’s hand away and vigorously shook her head against your neck. “No! I don’t want to talk to papa ever again.” She spoke, cries muffled.

Zhongli was at a loss for words. He was really sorry for his mistake and forgetting to tell Aether to pick Ganyu from school. He wanted to express his apology but what was he supposed to do now? He’s never had to encounter a situation when his perfect daughter acted out.

Again he looked at you with a desperate expression, pleading for some help. You gave him a subtle nod and looked back at Ganyu who was huddled up in your lap. You brushed away her falling tears with your thumb before talking to her in a hushed tone. “Ganyu, can you look at Miss Y/N for a moment? Please?” Zhongli felt his heart skip a beat at your honey-like voice, his astonishment increasing further when Ganyu pulled away to look into your eyes, occasionally hiccuping and wiping away her tears with the back of her sleeves.

You looked at her with a gentle understanding gaze, pulling out a handkerchief from your pocket for her to blow her nose. “Are you angry at papa?” You ask her, puffing your cheeks in exaggerated crossness, rousing a little giggle from her.

“Yes…papa forgot about me.” She sniffled, messily wiping her face with the cotton cloth. You tilt your head to the side and look at her questioningly. “But if papa forgot you, then why is he here to pick you up?” Your question made the little girl dart her gaze to Zhongli, who still had an ashamed smile on his face.

“Papa didn’t forget about Ganyu! How could he forget about his sweet little angel!” You make reference of the pet name Zhongli used for her, quickly catching his expression to see for any discomfort. Thankfully all you got in return was a charming smile. You poke Ganyu in her tummy, the ticklish feeling causing her to fall into a fit of laughter.

Seeing his daughter much calmer now, Zhongli tried again to pull her into his arms and this time she let him do so. He picked her from your lap and brought her in his own, hugging her tightly like he had never before, giving her the warmth and fatherly reassurance she needed. “I am so sorry Ganyu. Papa will be careful from next time, promise.” He vowed, giving her a kiss on her forehead.

You couldn’t help but feel your heart melt at the father-daughter bonding the two of them shared. The way he held her like the most precious being in the universe, it made you smile. Feeling the weight of a gaze upon him, Zhongli glanced at you, your eyes meeting and holding contact for a second too long.

“Oh, I am extremely sorry for coming late today. I assure you this is the first and last time this is happening. I hope it wasn’t too much trouble for you to stay and look after her.” Zhongli stood up and bowed slightly, holding Ganyu on his hip. He felt really bad for having put you in a position where you had no choice but to care for his daughter. Being a teacher, you surely had lots of work and other things to do, and he really appreciated you looking after Ganyu in his absence.

You laugh and wave your hands in front of you, brushing off his worry. “That is alright sir. Ganyu is a student of mine, and she’s no less than a daughter to me. Taking care of her is second nature to me.” You walk closer and pinch the girl’s cheeks and give her a wide smile, pulling a similar one from her.

When you took in a breath, the subtle smell of pinewood filled your senses, the smell of Zhongli’s cologne. Your face tipped up to see how close you were standing to the male and to respect his personal space, you took a step back, blushing profoundly. Only, Zhongli didn’t mind you standing so close to him, he quite liked it. But it wasn’t appropriate for him to voice those thoughts so he stayed silent on the matter.

Zhongli sighed in short-lived relief. “Though I am going to have to scold you for being late. Ganyu how do people who come to class late apologise?” You cross your arms playfully. Ganyu’s eyes light up as she tugs the lapel’s of her father's jacket. “Papa you will have to write on a paper ‘I am sorry for coming late’! You have to write it 20 times!” She exclaimed.

“Of course angel, I’ll get right to it when we get home okay?” He promised, giving a little oomph when Ganyu hugged his neck out of the blue. When you giggled softly, Zhongli peeked at you. That laugh of yours pulled his heartstrings and he joined you, the two of you giggling together.

“If that is all, then I should be bidding you farewell, Mister…” You trailed off, wordlessly asking the male in front of you for his name. He coughed and extended his free hand for you to shake. “Zhongli. Please, just Zhongli is enough.” Your smaller hand wrapped around his and your fingers felt so soft, Zhongli wondered if you’d held the clouds in your hands at some point during the day.

“I am Y/N. It is a pleasure to meet you, Zhongli.” His name coming from your lips felt so perfect. Never before had he felt warmth blooming across his face when someone spoke his name. This feeling was so strange yet so right at the same time.

The beginning of something wonderful and memorable.

Zhongli gazed at you warmly, “The pleasure is all mine Y/N.”

Aether was the most surprised, seeing Zhongli return with Ganyu in his arms and a giddy grin on his lips. You could practically see the halo of pink hearts floating around his head. “You look like you’re in a good mood. What’s up?” Aether chuckled, setting little Xiao in his seat and walking to take Ganyu and give her supper.

Zhongli snapped back to his original self, trying to gather his composure while walking into his house. “Nothing much, just met Ganyu’s teacher today.” Aether didn’t think much of it, brushing it off as a parent-teacher meeting, but sweet angel Ganyu had to open her mouth.

“Aether, Miss Y/N is the best teacher ever! She is so pretty and she makes me laugh and she even made papa laugh today. If Y/N didn’t help papa then I would still be mad at him. Even papa thinks Miss Y/N is pretty, right papa?” She blurted out, then proceeded to stuff her face with mashed potatoes.

The younger male glanced at his superior, smiling in amusement at the scarlet red blush that covered his embarrassed face. “Oh, is that so Zhongli?” He teased, giving him a knowing look.

To ease a forming lump in his throat, Zhongli walked to the fridge to grab himself a glass of water. “Yes, she is quite…beautiful and sweet. She was really nice to Ganyu when she started crying and it was very kind of her to take care of Ganyu when I reached to pick her up late and…I’m not going to speak any further for I don’t wish to embarrass myself more.” Zhongli gulped down the liquid and averted Aether’s gaze, one filled with mock and tease.

Days later Zhongli was still thinking about the attractive, kind teacher he met. Did he say attractive? Well, you definitely were, since he did find himself get attracted to you. Your smile and gentle eyes peering at him had etched themselves into his daydreams. It was quite strange, he never felt this sort of tightness in his chest before whenever he met another woman. But you, oh dear you, you had stained every vacant thought of his ever since that afternoon.

A knock on his bedroom door snapped him out of his thoughts. “Ahem, come in!” He called out, expecting it to be Aether with some reports or something of the sort. Only to his surprise, his daughter walked in, a sheet of paper and a bright red crayon in her hands.

“Hello angel. What’s the matter.” Zhongli spun in his chair and leaned down to lift his daughter in his arms, seating her on his lap. She laid the paper on top of his work and handed him the red crayon. “Papa you still have to write the apology to Miss Y/N! You have to write ‘I am sorry for coming late’ 20 times! Papa you promised!” The little girl huffed.

Zhongli laughed, but upon seeing Ganyu’s serious expression, his jest died down. She really did want him to write the apology. “Of course angel, I’ll start right away.” Even when he said that she refused to move from his lap until he started writing.

For his comfort, he used his own pen, the ink gliding across the sheet in his calligraphic handwriting. Whenever he finished writing down one sentence, his daughter cheered and counted down, a method of motivation which she had learnt from her teacher, she informed. Zhongli smiled to himself. Beautiful and smart. This woman kept surprising her.

“Andddd done!” He announced, putting a full stop at the end of his 20th sentence. He had to admit, even though he writes pages worth of writing in a single sitting, this punishment felt very taxing.

“Yay! Congratulations papa! Now when you give it to Miss Y/N tomorrow, she will surely give you a gold star.” His eyes widened and his cheeks warmed. “You want me to come to give it to her?” He inquired, making sure he heard her right the first time. Ganyu rolled her eyes dramatically, “Of course papa. If I give it to her, then she will think that I wrote the apology.”

Her reasoning was very valid for a 7-year-old, so Zhongli shrugged and decided to go along with it. “Then I shall come with you tomorrow.” He smiled. What a perfect opportunity to get to meet you again.

The next day when Zhongli woke up to take Ganyu to school, he felt…more eager to do that daily task. While getting ready, he spritzed on his favourite cologne, one which he saved for special occasions, he wore one of his better coats and sweaters and he made sure his hair looked better than it usually did. He thought to himself, ‘why am I dressing up so much? What is going on with me?’

And all his questions were answered when he walked into the school grounds and saw your smile as you greeted the other children and parents. You were practically glowing, shining brighter than a diamond in the moonlight. You walked to the children who were reluctant to leave their parents and you encouraged them, gave them the confidence to join you in your classroom.

“Papa come! We need to meet Miss Y/N before you go!” Ganyu’s excited figure pulled Zhongli through the crowd of adults and kids until he found himself standing a few feet from you. He froze up when Ganyu left his hand and darted towards you, engulfing your leg in a bear hug. He should also greet you, it’s polite to do so.

“Good morning, Ganyu! How are you today?” You kneeled to her eye level and conversed with her, grinning at her enthusiastic replies. “I am very good! I was a big girl yesterday and I made papa write the sorry note for you. Please give him a gold star!”

Your E/C trailed up to the man who stood behind Ganyu, his lips turned in a lopsided grin. “Oh is that so?” You look at him with a playfulness in your tender gaze, he couldn’t stop his heart rate from increasing.

He pulled out the slip of paper from his pocket and handed it to you, praying that when you take it from him, your hands would meet. He really wanted to feel your feather-soft touch once again. And thankfully the archons above heard his prayers for when you reached out to grab the paper, you lightly touched his warm hand, your touch sending waves of homeliness through him. Was it too soon to describe that feeling as homeliness? Maybe, but that word was just perfect to describe the sensation taking over him.

A delighted giggle escaped your lips as you unfolded the paper to find that he had indeed written the apology 20 times. You were amazed by his beautiful handwriting, almost finding it hard to believe that he wrote it and it wasn’t the product of a professional calligraphy artist.

“Ganyu, why don’t you go join your friends in class? I am sure Keqing is waiting for you.” You wink at her, seeing her bubble excitedly. She gave her father a quick hug and ran inside, leaving you and Zhongli standing in front of each other.

“She never stops talking about you.” You beam at him starting a conversation as the other students started crowding into the main building. The pride that filled his amber eyes beckoned you to speak further, wanting to see more of his handsome expression.

“She admires and idolises you, Zhongli. She always tells all her friends bout how her papa knows everything about the earth and she even told us stories about how the Liyuan Canyon was formed as a result of years of erosion by the river. She had the whole class captivated, I’ve never seen the students so quiet and interested in history.” You giggle as he sheepishly laughs and rubs his neck.

“Thank you for your kind words. Though I must express, you are a role model for her as well. She always talks about the pretty teacher who pays attention to all the students’ needs and encourages her to perform her best” He complimented, only realising he called you pretty when he recalled his words after seeing you blush. “Oh dear, I am really sorry. That was not professional of me.” He spluttered. ‘What happened to the calm and composed Zhongli?’ He cursed himself.

“I don’t mind the compliment Zhongli. Thank you.” You looked to the side to avoid his eyes, but when you noticed the emptiness around you, you realised that you had a class to take care of. “I should probably get back to my students.” You patted your clothes out of instinct as you waved at him and turned to walk away.

Zhongli mistook your hurry as discomfort from calling you pretty. Just as he was about to scowl at himself, you looked over your shoulder and grabbed his attention. “And about your gold star, how about I give it to you when you come to pick Ganyu in the afternoon?” Your offer to hang out with him for a while longer did not go unnoticed.

He stood tall and fixed his blazer, mirroring your gentle smile. “I’ll be looking forward to my reward.”

That afternoon he was greeted with you waiting to put a gold star sticker on the breast pocket of his blazer, Ganyu getting excited at how her father got his first sticker. All day that day, he subconsciously ran his fingers over the smooth star-shaped sticker, smiling to himself.

From that day, your relation progressed from father and teacher to some sort of friends.

In the crowd, his face was the one you’d always be most eager to see and he yours.

The two of you would talk of trivial topics before the school bell rang and you had to leave for your respective job; and in the afternoons he would stay back a little longer, your conversations drawing him in as Ganyu played in the grounds.

Your nightingale like voice and childlike expression whenever you spoke of something that excited you made him sigh in happiness. His mind was all fuzzy and he felt like he could spend hours just hearing you talk and admiring your beautiful features.

Conversations with you were never dull, you always kept Zhongli on his toes with the tales you had to offer about your teaching experience and he entertained you with historical stories that had your interests piqued.

One day you told him that Ganyu mentioned during a presentation that she had a little brother and you were hoping to see a picture of him. Happy to fulfil your request, Zhongli pulled out his phone and swiped through the gallery, showing you various pictures of him, Ganyu and Xiao.

He laughed heartily when you snatched his device and gushed over his younger child, commenting about how much he resembles his father. You even requested to meet him someday and Zhongli was more than excited for you to meet Xiao.

The first time you met Xiao, Zhongli was slightly nervous, constantly reminding Xiao to be on his best behaviour. He knew it would be hard for a toddler to follow such strict instructions, but a man could dream.

To his surprise, Xiao was much more mannered when you walked over and greeted him in your baby voice. His eyes were wide and head tilted to get a better look at your face from his father’s arms.

Looking at Zhongli for perMission to hold him and receiving a nod in return, you opened your arms, getting ready to hold him. Zhongli expected his son to shrink back, but Xiao’s eagerness to jump into your arms startled him.

Picking up the 3-year-old on your hip, you asked him questions such as his name and age, cooing whenever he answered. Your praises embarrassed him and he hid himself in your hair, softly playing with your H/C ends.

“I’ve never seen him this quiet. Are you sure you’re not a divine being?” Zhongli’s eyes lidded as he exhaled deeply, a lovestruck expression drawn on his face. You blushed at his words and gave your much more accurate reply. “I guess I am just good with children. I like them and they like me, isn’t that true little Xiao.” You booped his nose and he snorted a laugh in return, proving your claim.

The 15 minutes he stayed back turned into an hour, the three of you walking to a nearby park and sitting on a bench while Ganyu tried catching butterflies in her little fingers.

Often Zhongli would buy you some coffee or tea from a local cafe, whatever is your preference. Many a time you told him that he had no need to, but he insisted, saying that it was a treat, from one friend to another.

In the chilly autumn afternoons, with the sun’s dim light shining between the withering leaves, Zhongli came to fall in love with you, staring at your features as you cradled Xiao in your lap, poking his nose and laughing with Ganyu whenever he sneezed cutely.

But, what was he to do with these feelings?

“Papa! Papa!” His little daughter burst into his room, with Aether and Xiao trailing behind her. Zhongli’s eyes darted up from his work and he took off his specs, jumping from his seat to kneel in front of his frantic daughter. “Ganyu? Is everything alright?” His eyes scanned her for any injuries, raising an eyebrow when he saw her with an ear to ear smile.

“Papa it is Miss Y/N’s birthday tomorrow! We have to specially meet her tomorrow! We have to make her a card and buy her a gift! We need to buy her a pretty diamond necklace.” Ganyu rambled on, various gift ideas pouring out her mind. Zhongli smiled and shook his head. “Yes, we do need to buy her a pretty gift. Why don’t you go put on some shoes and we’ll go shopping right now?” Ganyu squealed and ran out of the room.

“Ah is this the reason you declined day after tomorrow’s invitation to the Historian Meet?” Aether wiggled his eyebrows at Zhongli, causing him to roll his eyes at Aether’s childishness. “It’s nothing like that. Y/N invited us to her house for her birthday dinner and I thought it would be quite rude to decline her offer over something that happens every second month.” He tried justifying himself. A simpler reason would have been, ‘I like her and I want to spend more time with her.’

That year her birthday fell on a Saturday and she had invited Zhongli and his children for a celebration dinner on Sunday, just the 4 of them. When she asked him over the phone if he could make it, Zhongli nodded like an eager child and then slapped his forehead in realisation that she couldn’t see him.

In the afternoon, Zhongli and Aether took Ganyu and Xiao to the shopping complex, and the two children who would usually be so engrossed in buying for themselves, their only goal for today was to find the perfect gift go you.

“Papa should we buy her a dress? I want to pick a dress for her!” Ganyu whined and pulled the others into a boutique. “I’ll take care of Xiao while you help Ganyu select a gift.” Aether declared, leaving the father to fend for himself.

A good 20 minutes it took for the 7-year-old to select a dress, with the assistance of her father and a store clerk. Zhongli was in awe of the floor-length mermaid shaped silver dress that Ganyu tugged from the shelves, proclaiming that it was the perfect gift for Miss Y/N. He sure hoped that his estimate of her dress size was accurate enough to fit her.

This is a very good choice Angel. You really like Miss Y/N, don’t you?” Zhongli gave her a close eyed smile, paying for the dress at the check out counter. She nodded vigorously, “Yes! Miss Y/N is my favourite and I know she’s your favourite too!” Zhongli choked on air as the cashier subtly smirked, having overheard their conversation.

“Ganyu! You don’t speak like that in public!” Zhongli spoke sternly but didn’t deny her statement. “Sir, I know it’s not my place to say, but would you like to check out our selection of pendants? Maybe you could find something of your liking.” The cashier offered, gesturing to the display of necklaces and gems aplenty.

Zhongli hummed to himself. A pendant would be a nice gift, holding great emotion and even hints of intimacy. He felt a tug on his pants and his daughter was having thoughts that overlapped with his. Maybe a necklace would be a perfect gift along with the dress.

Finally, the night of the dinner came. You were getting restless, repeatedly smoothening your knee-length dress while checking your make up in the mirror. How this night would end, you had no knowledge. But you really wanted to try your best, hoping to woo the man you had been developing feelings for.

When the bell rang, your heart pumped faster in your chest as you darted across your small apartment to open the door. There on the other side was Zhongli, Xiao on his hip and Ganyu standing beside him, clinging to his pants. Behind them was a blonde man you’ve never seen before, who you assumed to be Aether by the description Zhongli had given you in the past.

“Good evening Y/N. Wishing you the happiest birthday.” Zhongli leaned forward and pressed an air kiss to either of your cheeks in greeting. Seeing the way his father kissed your cheeks, Xiao reached forward and wrapped his hands around your neck, the suddenness of his action making you jolt forward to catch him and Zhongli scrambling to catch you with his free hand, in case you fall. Xiao cutely pressed a big kiss to your right cheek and then your left, mumbling a small hello.

Your face turned ruby red. But not at the child’s kiss. Zhongli’s hand was firmly gripping your waist as he held Xiao, the boy leaning on you in a very awkward position. The tension was thick, your eyes stayed fixed on Zhongli’s bright eyes as even he found it hard to tear away from his gaze from yours.

Thankfully, a deliberate cough from Aether helped snap you back to reality. “Let me hold him. And please! Do come in.” You took Xiao from Zhongli’s arms and opened the door wider, letting the 3 of them in. “I hope you don’t mind me calling Aether along, I required some assistance with the children.” He apologised.

“Nonsense! I am so happy to finally put a face to the name. It is great to finally meet you Aether. Zhongli doesn’t stop talking about how helpful you are, be it with his kids or in general.” You extend your free hand to shake his, getting a cheeky smile from him in return. “It is wonderful to finally see the Y/N that has Mr Zhongli daydreaming and-.”

“Oh by the way, here is your present. Ganyu selected it herself.” Zhongli grinned and took a well-wrapped box from Aether, preventing him from talking any further. You giggled at his obviousness and walked to the couch, sitting down and pouring some drinks for everyone, handing the kids a carton of fruit juice each.

“Come on Miss Y/N! Open your present!” Ganyu bounced on the couch in excitement, pushing the box further up your lap. Zhongli was ready to tell her off for misbehaving, but you quickly puller her to your side and together started ripping off the nicely done wrapping paper. Zhongli hissed internally at how messy the two of you were being, but seeing to smile at Ganyu’s elated figure, he guessed that you did that for her happiness.

“I hope you like it Miss Y/N!” Ganyu played with her fingers as you lifted the lid of the box. Even Zhongli sat on the edge of his seat, waiting to see your reaction. He was more than pleased when you gasped and squealed, pulling out the sequinned fabric of the dress. You stood up and pressed the clothing to your chest, the dress draping in front of you. Zhongli imagined you in that dress, looking absolutely stunning with your current makeup and hairdo. He could hear the drumming of his heart in his ears, but that wasn’t able to drown out the sounds of you thanking him for buying you such a wonderful present.

“Please, I wanted to treat you. A wonderful person such as yourself only deserves the best.” He beamed as you folded the dress and carefully put it back in the box, ready to store it to be worn on a special occasion.

After a little more talking and laughing, the children started complaining about feeling hungry. Seeing the clock, you clapped your hands and announced that it was indeed time for dinner.

Once you seated everyone at the dining table and disappeared into the kitchen to bring dinner, Aether kicked Zhongli from under the table. Aether’s wide eyes and curled lips along with his head tilting towards the kitchen struck Zhongli as an instruction to go help Y/N. Not only out of politeness but also for some alone time.

He left the table and walked into the kitchen to see you gathering plates and bowls for everyone. He offered to help and even after you denying, he was resilient. Finally, you gave up and let him lend a hand, setting the plates and cutlery on the table.

He helped you carry all the dishes you prepared by hand. He wasn’t very happy that you went through the pain of cooking everything, especially since it was your birthday celebration, but the flavourful smell wafting through the air made him look forward to the meal.

At one point during the set up, the two of you reached for the same pot of curry sitting atop the counter, your fingers making contact. Like lovestruck teenagers, you stared at each other and started blushing, both offering to take it out instead. Using your ‘my house, my rules’ ability, you went and placed the final serving bowl on the table, with Zhongli trailing behind you only a breath away, bumping into you when you suddenly turned.

“Dig in!” You announced and everyone started eating. Moans of satisfaction and exclamations of ‘so yummy!’ filled the dining room, making you bashful.

Zhongli praised your cooking, telling you how he’s never tasted such delicious home cooked food and if he had a choice, he would eat such food for the rest of his life. Only when he was drinking water did he realise the implied meaning of his words. When he looked at you, he was relieved to see you smiling at him, in a way that showed that you accepted that hidden meaning. Could it be…

Dinner went by as smooth as it could. Yes, Xiao did start crying about how he did not want to eat his vegetable because they were yucky. Aether and Zhongli tried their best to convince him to eat, using methods such as the aeroplane and the chop chop train, but all in vain. Thankfully you stepped in to save the day.

Only when you did the aeroplane did Xiao agree to eat! He was happily eating the beans from your fork as if that was his plan all along, to be fed by you. You laughed at how Zhongli’s mouth was hung open. His own son had betrayed him, he wasn’t going to forget that ever.

Zhongli seemed to find more and more things about you to admire, from the way you were able to keep his children well behaved and still joyous with your humorous anecdotes to how you gelled well with Aether, laughing with him about Zhongli’s embarrassing parenting moments.

Eventually, dinner came to an end. Xiao very conveniently crawled into his father’s lap during dinner and fell asleep against his shoulder and Ganyu’s head was lolling around as she struggled to keep her eyes open.

Aether announced that it was time for him to take the children home since it was much past their bedtime and they had school the next day. As you went to shake Ganyu awake, she grabbed your hand and pulled your face down so that she could whisper in your ear.

“Papa has a special gift for you. I hope you like it.” And she was out like a light bulb.

You smiled to yourself and carried her downstairs, not wanting to bother the father or his friend with the task. Aether was quite thankful and once you were walking down the stairs, he caught Zhongli’s eye and winked at him teasingly, enjoying the reawakening blush on his face.

You and Zhongli set his kids in the backseat and buckled them up snuggly. Aether and Zhongli spoke a while and you not wanting to pry in their conversation continued to make the kids feel comfortable in their seats. A smile graced your face and their sleepy figures as you closed the door.

Aether stepped into the car and waved at you and Zhongli, the male finding his spot beside you.

“Are you staying a little longer?” You asked, hoping that he wasn’t going to head off for some last minute meeting or anything. Zhongli turned around to face your apartment building, lifting his arm and sticking out his elbow for you to grab. “I’ll stay if you want me to.”

You beamed at his offer and grabbed his forearm, walking with him back to your house. “Ah, I completely forgot about the cake!” You walked to the kitchen with Zhongli trailing behind you. From the fridge, you pulled out a small chocolate cake with Happy Birthday frosted on in royal red icing. “My cousin is a baker and she sent it for me. I was really hoping to share it with you and your kids.” You chuckle nervously, placing the cake on the coffee table in front of the couch.

“Well, maybe you can cut it in my presence and bring it over tomorrow to my place. We can have it along with a nice cup of coffee if you’ll accept my invitation.” He spoke while lighting up the birthday candles, both of you sitting side by side on the couch, your bodies almost touching. All either of you needed was a little encouraging push.

You nodded at him and picked up the knife. “Well, time to blow out the candles and make a wish!” You exclaim, closing your eyes and leaning forward. You were silent for a second, making your wish and once you opened your eyes, you blew the candles. Zhongli clapped as you cut a slice and before you could pick it up, he beat you to it, lifting the confectionary to your lips. “Birthday girl gets the first bite.”

You couldn’t deny the tension in the air when you wrapped your fingers around his wrist to guide the cake to your mouth. He couldn’t deny the feelings bubbling in his heart when you laughed with a face full of chocolate. Both of you could read the others eyes when he leaned forward to swipe some frosting off your lips.

“I…I umm brought you a gift. Apart from the dress.” He blushed and reached into his blazer pocket, pulling out a long velvet box. He sat up in front of you and opened the box to reveal a pendant- a gorgeous pearl-shaped one, the gem of a soft pink shade sparkling in the lighting of your house.

“Zhongli…this is so beautiful.” You hesitated to touch the gift, not knowing its monetary worth, but with his encouragement, you reach forward to brush your fingers against the silver chain and the glistening gem. You looked away from the necklace and saw his gentle eyes on you, taking in your fascinated expression. “Zhongli…can you help me put it on?”

He was taken aback by your request. Asking him to help you with your necklace, it was a direct request to be touched, for him to brush his fingers in butterfly soft motions over your skin. A request for intimacy.

He gulped and nodded, carefully picking the necklace out of its case while you turned around and lifted your hair, exposing your neck. The sweet smell of your perfume hit his nose and it was a lucky coincidence that you were unable to see his shaking fingering and red ears.

“This gem, it’s a rose quartz. And it does have some…meaning, if you wish to put it that way.” You shivered when the cold metal touched your collarbone, it sliding up your skin as Zhongli tried to clasp it behind your neck. You could feel his breath fan over the nape of your neck. “What’s its significance.” You whispered, the tone of the rooming dimming down.

“It…It’s a symbol of unconditional love. Of the purest and sincerest of emotions, from one person to another.” The click of metal signalled that the necklace was locked around your neck. You looked down to admire it in your fingers, giving great attention to how Zhongli’s hands dropped down to your waist. He shuffled closer, closer enough for your back to hit his chest and his chin rest on your shoulder, his burning cheek right up against yours.

You allowed his faint embrace, leaning back to rest your weight against him. He hummed in your ear softly. You could feel his Adam’s apple bob nervously as if he was itching to speak. A moment later, he found the courage to pour out his feelings.

“Y/N...I have a confession to make.” He pulled from you, causing you to shift in your seat and face him. You smile at his gentle smiling, feeling his hand reach up to cradle your cheek. Relaxing against his warmth, a satisfied breath escaped your lips as you slowly nodded your head, giving him to go to speak on.

“The reason I chose this gem was…as a confession of my growing feelings for you. I don’t know how or when it happened, but now when I look into your eyes, I…there’s no way around this.” He blushed bashfully and looked to the side, unable to collect his thoughts and convert them into words.

“Zhongli…just tell me what you’re feeling. Who knows, maybe I’ll reciprocate your feelings…” You lift your other hand to cover your pink cheeks. He chuckled lightly at slanted in your direction, till you could see the golden threads of his irises.

“Well then if I may be so bold to confess…Y/N, I have developed romantic feelings for you. My confession is in no means a way for you to feel obligated to feel for me back-“ He was going to ramble out a long apology after his small confession.

Your smile grew and you threw yourself into Zhongli’s arms, rubbing your nose against his neck. The overwhelming feeling of happiness was intoxicating as you giggled into his shoulder. “I like you too Zhongli. Like a lot.” Your confession, so simple yet filled with so many emotions, Zhongli laughed in relief hearing your words.

“I am so happy you feel that way.” His arms tightened around your waist, squeezing you in a bear hug. You squeal in his hold and pull your face away to see his soft happy smile. His smile faltered when he noticed how close your lips were to his, he could feel your warm breath on his lips, the sensation quite ticklish.

“May I…may I kiss you Y/N?” He gulped. Your lips brushed over his when you nodded and a wild part of him came to life.

His hands flew up to cup your cheeks as he pulled you in, placing his lips on top of yours with such gentleness, it made your head feel dizzy. His soft lips danced with yours in harmony, parting and meeting yours again and again. He delicately brushed his thumbs over your cheekbones, drawing you deeper into the kiss. Your hands dropped to his sweater, clutching the wool in your fingers. His kisses had you feeling drunk, and with every breath and gasp for air, you pulled him in for more.

You shifted closer to him till your thighs touched, every contact had electricity zooming through your nerves. Your fingers found the ends of his well-kept hair and shamelessly you tangled your digits in his soft chocolate locks, bringing him even closer if possible. His hands trailed down to your lower back, arching you closer to his body, till the warmth of your chest pressed against his. Your warmth… radiated that home like feeling again, and Zhongli welcomed that with open arms, holding you like the most precious being in the world.

Thoughts ran crazy in Zhongli’s head. He knew that if he ever had the opportunity to kiss you, your lips would feel so smooth against his, but he never expected it to feel so…perfect. As if his lips were made to kiss yours, fitting together like puzzle pieces. Butterflies flew crazily in his stomach, a sensation he’d completely forgotten about before he met you. You entered his life and gave him the love he didn’t know he missed and now that he had a little taste, he craved more and more of you.

Separating for real this time, you panted, feelings his heavy breath against you. You lifted your head and bite your lip, stopping that huge grin from appearing on your face. Zhongli didn’t want to hold back his happiness. He laughed and hugged you tight, peppering kisses on your cheeks.

“I am so happy you’ve agreed to accept my feelings Y/N. So very happy.” He cheered, words trailing off as his eyes fell upon you again. He pecked your lips, once then twice, making sure the events that just happened weren’t a dream.

“So what does this mean for us? Do you think Ganyu and Xiao will be fine with you having a lover?” You hesitated with your words, trying to voice out your concerns. He understood your worries and grabbed your hands, bringing them up for him to place gentle kisses on your knuckles. “I think they’d be quite welcoming. They love you already and having you join our little family would bring them great happiness. That is, if you’re ready to?” Zhongli whispered softly, knowing the responsibility you would be agreeing to if you accept.

You think for a minute, then flip your hands to place Zhongli’s on top, giving butterfly kisses to his nervous hands. “I don’t know if I can think that far ahead. But what I know is that at this moment, I want to be with you, I want to be with Ganyu and Xiao. I want to see your face, first thing when I wake up and I want to kiss the children before they sleep. If you’ll have me, the way I am?”

Zhongli didn’t even need to give it a second thought, he was already nodding his head and pulling you against his chest, kissing you all over again. Hearing your angelic giggles and feeling your electrifying touch, Zhongli knew that for the first time in a long time, he was ready to love again.

WAKING UP TO THEIR EMBRACE !

synopis: waking up to their embrace after staying at their place last night.

characters: childe, diluc, itto, kaeya, kazuha, xiao, zhongli

content warnings: suggestive + gn!reader

childe: when you wake up with sleepy eyes after coming home, to childe’s apartment you feel a loose arm around your waist. already noticing that the dull eyes have been staring at you before you had awaken. you cannot help but get flustered, as he presses a kiss to your head.

diluc: your back would be to his chest while he holds you by your waist, sleeping and nuzzled deep into your hair. he loved your aroma and scent and adored it so much. waking up to him is nice and cozy because he hardly snores and he usually wakes up after you do to say good morning.

itto: waking up to him is basically like being held by a huge teddy bear. he does snore a bit in the morning but perhaps it’s a sound you can get accustomed too. though if you wake up before him, he’ll just encourage you to go back to sleep.

kaeya: waking up to him feels like a short blessing, because he is so warm and hearing him praise and flirt with you at dawn is like the cherry on top. though a majority of the time his flirty comments makes you nervous so you end up burying your head into his shoulder.

kazuha: he always holds you upon his chest carefully, stroking the strands of your hair and saying good morning once your eyes meet the sun peaking through the windows. he’ll ask simple questions and always asking if you wanted to catch breakfast with him.

xiao: he generally likes to watch you fall asleep but the temptation and the urge to hold you, is way too strong which is why you awake in the morning to him pressing your head upon his chest while he tells you to go back to bed and kisses your forehead.

zhongli: oh archons, he is so gentle. he holds you very carefully and softly, making sure that you are safe in his warmth and embrace. he either has your head placed on his chest or shoulder to guarantee you comfort.

Can you please do zhongli/rex lapis x fem shy reader. The fem reader is extremely shy and doesn't have any friends cause of her quiet and timid nature and she lives in liyue with her parents and an only child. She loves to story of rex lapis and the history of liyue and accidentally meet zhongli and sometime later he revealed to be rex lapis to the reader. Also, the fem is a villager of liyue and doesn't have super powers to fight just a weak villager.

fateful meeting

pairing : zhongli x shy f!reader {fluff}

warnings : none

word count : 2.6k

a/n : thank you for this request! I apologize for the wait, I dont think i made the reader as shy as you requested jshdjd sorry, i hope you enjoy !

Even as a child you had been fascinated by the stories of Liyue, or rather, a specific figure in its history. Perhaps, the archons have heard your passionate nature regarding Liyue, for a fateful meeting one day will change your peaceful life forever. 

Life was everything you could’ve ever wished for.

Only the soft, consistent chopping of a knife against a wooden cutting board and an occasional quiet flip of a page in a book could be heard in one of the many homes in Qingce Village. 

Sunlight seeps through the cracks of the window you sat by, casting a bright glow on the words inside the book in your hands, seeming as if the story itself was coming to life.

Well, not that the story wasn’t coming to life, it had already come to life, for you were currently reading about the history of your beloved nation, Liyue.

The book you were so engrossed in was not an unfamiliar story, having already read it a couple times. You would never grow tired of this one.

A smile played on your lips as you approached one of your favorite parts of this specific chapter. 

Softly fiddling with the corner of the thin page, your eyes scanned over the familiar words slowly.

Wielding a spear so sharp no blade could even hope to compete against, he emerges from the shadows, illuminating a golden aura around his built figure. In one swift motion, the polearm-wielding fighter sends a rumble through the ground beneath him, ridding of any enemies around him in a flash. A sigh leaves his lips as he removes his hood, examining his surroundings. A long ponytail of golden-brown hair trails down to his waist, flowing softly in the wind. His eyes the same shade, if anything more golden, slowly fluttering shut, head turning upwards, immersing himself in the soft breeze.

You pause and gaze out the window, sighing at the scene of hundreds of miles of tall mountains spread out all around, all thanks to one person. One archon, to be more specific.

About to flip the page once more to continue, you were interrupted by your mother’s voice calling out from the kitchen. 

“Y/N, dear, could you fetch me some berries down the river if you aren’t busy?”

You tear your eyes away from the book begrudgingly, calling back, “Fine, anything else?”

“Some sweet flowers and fowl would be great, thanks honey!”

You shut the book, placing it down on your table as you stand up to stretch, bones cracking at the movement.

As much as you wanted nothing but to snuggle back into your chair and immerse yourself back into the story, your parents were the most important people in your life, and you knew it was mainly up to you to take care of them.

Being an only child isn’t as lonely as people make it out to be, you get peace and quiet in the home, and you wouldn’t change it for anything else.

Kicking on your shoes you wore when you ventured outside, you picked up the basket that was used to collect food, as well as your hunting bow for the fowl.

You didn’t know how to fight, having spent your whole life secluded in the village, but you had enough hunting experience, at least.

About to head out, your eyes landed on the book now laying on the table and pondered for a moment, before grabbing it and placing it into the basket.

Despite your mother’s scolding about dangers reading outside, you just wanted a change of scenery while you lose yourself in Liyue’s history.

“I’m heading out now, Ma!” You call out as you push open the wooden door to your home, earning a hum from her in response.

The heat in Liyue would be pretty unbearable to outsiders, however having lived in the same village for almost all your life, it wasn’t anything new.

You hummed, greeting your neighbors occasionally with a wave, walking down to your usual place to fetch ingredients.

Finally reaching your destination not too far from the village, you crouch by the river as you picked the sweet flowers and berries your mother had asked for.

“Mmm, what else did she ask for again?” You thought out loud, forgetting the last ingredient, eyes landing on your bow.

“Oh right, fowl!”

You scan your surroundings, looking for any signs of birds, when suddenly you hear a sharp rustle of a bush behind you. 

Not having time to even turn around and investigate, a heavy weight pounced on you from behind, causing you to tumble forward.

You let out a yelp, feeling a pain through your arm that you had landed on, turning around to see the attacker.

Your eyes widened, seeing it had been a hilichurl that was currently standing above you, however, it didn’t feel like a regular hilichurl.

It had black smoke emitting around it, as if some type of curse had been placed on it, enhancing its strength.

The hilichurl spurt out some unintelligible words, before raising its bat and lunging at you once again.

You grab your bow beside you quickly, aiming at its head before completely missing due to your shaking hands.

Cursing under your breath, you pick up a rock and throw it weakly at the creature, causing it to stop only briefly before charging towards you again, seemingly more angered this time. 

This was it, you thought. All the time spent not learning how to fight, this must’ve been your punishment. 

You shield your face with your arms, hoping to at least lessen the impact, before hearing the hilichurl shout followed by a thud behind you. 

Moving your hands away from your head, you turn to see the hilichurl now lying unconscious a few feet away from you.

“Are you hurt anywhere?” 

A deep, masculine voice brings you out of your shock, as you turn slowly to meet your savior, instead met by a hand held out in front of you, offering assistance. 

Your eyes trailed up to the mysterious man’s face, before your breath caught in your throat.

A long ponytail of golden-brown hair trails down to his waist, flowing softly in the wind.

The man looked back at you curiously, hand still reached out toward you.

His eyes the same shade, if anything more golden.

Why were you suddenly reminded of those words in the book?

Your mouth gapes at the sight of the man above you, his presence bringing a strange feeling you didn’t recognize.

Your eyes widened. Could it be..?

“...excuse me? Are you alright?”

His voice brings you out of your daze once again, a worried look cast upon his handsome features. Wait, what?

It was only then did you realize how good looking the man was before you, turning red as you took his hand and stood up, wobbling a tiny bit.

“Thank you for saving me,” you bow slightly, quickly picking up your forgotten belongings on the ground, still flustered from the incident.

You were about to say goodbye and leave as quick as you could, before your book fell out of your basket and landed on the ground next to the man’s feet.

“Ah—“

The man bent down and picked up the book, about to hand it back to you, when he suddenly stopped and examined the cover.

You swore you could’ve been seeing things, but a small smile grazes his lips as he faces you.

“Are you also interested in the stories of Liyue?”

You stop in your tracks, turning to the man who was now flipping through the pages of the book to the section you had bookmarked prior.

His golden orbs now held an unreadable expression behind them, almost...nostalgic.

You felt a small surge of confidence as your favorite topic was brought up.

“Ah--yes, I am quite informed of the history of Liyue myself,” you smile softly to yourself, causing him to look up and chuckle.

“Is that so?” He hums, tilting his head upwards to face the blue sky, closing his eyes slowly. 

...slowly fluttering shut, head turning upwards, immersing himself in the soft breeze.

Your eyes widened at the sight.

There was no way.

But, there was no other explanation for it.

“May I...ask your name?” You ask carefully, awaiting his answer.

He shuts the book with a soft thud, handing it back to you to which you take back happily.

“I go by Zhongli.”

He offers you a smile, making your heart skip a beat and blood to your cheeks, as you stutter back your name in response.

“Be careful around these parts, monsters have been affected by some sort of spell here, making them stronger than usual,” he explains while putting away his spear he had used earlier.

Wielding a spear so sharp no blade could even hope to compete against.

There was no mistaking it.

“Are you perhaps--” 

You start to ask, gaining a curious gaze from him, however stopping in your words after realizing how bizarre you’d sound if you’d ask him the question you had been aching to voice since your meeting.

“Nevermind, I should get going,” You shake your head, thanking him once more before starting to walk away.

“If you’d like me to answer your question, meet me back here tomorrow, at the same time.”

Zhongli spoke behind you, making you turn and meet his eyes, which gazed back into yours almost knowingly. 

“But you don’t know what my question is,” you question, confusion evident on your features.

He chuckles again, the sound making you melt on the spot.

“Do not underestimate the geo archon.” 

With that, he disappears into the other direction, leaving you frozen in your place.

Did he just…?

A million thoughts were coursing through your head at the moment. But one thing was for sure, you couldn’t wait until tomorrow. 

--

That night, sleep did not come to you like usual.

With your head filled with thoughts about Zhongli, and his last words before departing, you were basically shaking with excitement.

Had you really met him?

Nevermind, your questions would all be answered the next day.

--

“I see you’ve arrived.”

Zhongli smiles at you, to which you return the gesture, still mesmerized by his delicate features to speak.

You had practically jumped out of bed this morning, making some jumbled excuse about fetching more berries and fowl to your mother, who was left dumbfounded.

Zhongli pats the spot beside him on the grass, and you notice his spear laying next to him on the other side.

Carefully sitting down next to the tall man, both of your backs leaned against the tree with its leaves above you providing minimal cover from the sun. It was then that you noticed the close proximity of your bodies, making you flush.

“So, would you like to ask me your question from yesterday?”

You bit your bottom lip nervously for a moment, before shaking your head and reaching next to you into the bag that you had brought. 

“Ah-- before that, Mr. Zhongli, you mentioned you are also interested in Liyue’s stories?” You pulled out the book from yesterday. 

He nods, as you flip open the book to the chapter you had bookmarked. The same chapter describing Rex Lapis’s first appearance.

“Just Zhongli is fine. And yes, I am also well-informed of the stories of Liyue. Would you like me to tell you some?”

You nod, showing him the marked section. “That would be nice, but could you answer this one question of mine first?”

He takes the book from your hands, bright pupils scanning over the words. A small breeze blew by just that moment, causing his long hair to lift slightly. The sunlight shone softly on his pale skin, giving him an almost ethereal aura.

You never thought someone could appear so calm and peaceful while reading a book.

“Yes, ask away.” 

He lifts his head up to meet your eyes, making you clear your throat, embarrassed you had been admiring him so openly.

Although that chapter remains your favorite chapter of all times, there had been one question that had stayed in the corner of your mind each time you read it.

“In that section, when Rex Lapis lifts his head and immerses himself in the wind, what do you think he was feeling? Satisfaction from eliminating his enemies? Or perhaps, tired from all the fighting in the Archon War?”

Zhongli hums, smiling gently at nothing in particular as he closes his eyes, lifting his head up towards the sky.

A small breeze passes by again, and you smile at the sight. You no longer questioned his true identity. You knew.

“That all may be true, however, I’d say he was feeling quite…” He pauses, as if trying to search for the right word.

“...saddened, almost.”

You tilt your head curiously, “Saddened?”

He nods, facing you, “Perhaps mournful, even. Have you ever wondered if Rex Lapis wanted to kill at all? Although those evil should be eliminated, they are still living souls, and perhaps he wished for everything to return to normal.”

Zhongli’s voice trailed off, as he held a sad feeling behind his eyes, making you unconsciously reach for his hand laying on his lap.

He looked at you in surprise at the sudden contact, and your eyes widened at your own actions, making a move to quickly retrieve your own hand, when he stops you.

 He brings the both of your hands together, now laying on his lap as red spreads through your cheeks.

The both of you sit in silence as a few beats pass, when he breaks the silence once again.

“I’d like to share with you some of my favorite stories of Liyue, would you be interested?”

You smile, nodding as he starts speaking again.

And he shares stories you’ve never heard before, or even some that you have, but a different version of. The difference in stories that you had believed your whole life made you surprised, not sure what to believe.

No, scratch that, deep down, you knew what to believe. Or, who to believe.

Zhongli shares his stories until it starts to become dark, to which he finally stops and suggests you return home.

“I’ll walk you home, it’s quite dangerous at night.”

You thank him, and you two start to make your way back, continuing to talk about Liyue and its fascinating history.

“Ah, it’s just right down there. Thank you for today, Zhongli.” You smile at him once again, ready to return before he stops you.

“Are you not going to ask me the question you had yesterday?” It was quite dark, so it was a bit difficult to tell, but you swore there was a slight smirk on his lips.

You laugh, shaking your head. “I’ve got my answer already.”

He raises his eyebrows, a teasing hint in his voice, “Are you sure, Y/N?”

Hearing your name roll off his tongue sent shivers through your body, smirking back at him.

“I’m quite sure, Rex Lapis.”

Zhongli opens his mouth to speak before closing, as deep chuckles ring through the night. Not long after, your own quiet giggles joining him. Finally, you both recover from your laughter.

“Goodnight then, Morax, you still have to share your stories with me tomorrow.”

He smiles at you, golden eyes shining even through the dark. “Same time?”

You grin back, before turning to return back to your home. “Same time.”

Maybe you’d ask him to teach you how to fight tomorrow.

On second thought, perhaps your lack of experience in fighting was a good thing. For because of it, you had met the man who only existed in books that you’d read everyday.

Your once peaceful life, although disrupted by the appearance of the one and only geo archon you admired so dearly, had now offered you something to look forward to each day.

♡ GENSHIN IMPACT + HOW LOVE FINDS THEM ♡

➳ ft. kaeya, diluc, zhongli, tartaglia

➳ tags ;; tooth-rotting fluff, hurt/comfort, alcohol as a coping mechanism, a little angst but happy endings always, extreme kaeya bias ngl, spoilers for kaeyas story, nonsexual nudity, gn!reader 

➳ a/n ;; first time writing for genshin so if the characterization is funky.. my fault 

➳ summary ;; genshin impact characters and how i think love finds them when they find you 

ZHONG-LI

Sometimes, he admits to himself, it feels forbidden to love you. 

When love finds him, it is on the stairway of a small cottage, tucked into a corner of Liyue. It is quiet and unassuming, more importantly shared. A place you’ve decided to spend hefty mora on to live in. 

There’s a backyard and a space for a garden and there are sweet flowers that always seem to regrow after you pick them. On the walls are weapons and hunting gear but in the drawers are spare clothes and change. It’s got two stories but it’s not big. It’s a home, still. 

You’ve invited him inside, an adopted street-cat at your feet as you make dinner. Zhong-li is a working man, but he spends his days off here. You are an adventurer, strong with a big heart and bigger dreams. Your silhouette makes up all the shadows that dance on the wall and you sway to the beat of a soundless song. A smile makes the corners of your lips twitch up and you stir the pot of whatever you’re making with boundless enthusiasm. 

Zhong-li would not wish godliness on anyone. He thinks about it often. Where Rex Lapis ends and where the human, the mortal Zhong-li starts is a blurred line. Humanity is a grieving thing. People live and are happy and then they pass and it is the only thing someone can guarantee. You will be born into the world tearful but you will pass silently - like a wind. 

Godliness means little is forbidden to you. Reality is something you fumble with in your clumsy hands and hope you can get right and humanity is a grieving thing. Always in that order. He knows there is no such thing as love that is truly forbidden - feelings like love and sadness and joy are things that cannot be settled by contracts or understood. They simply exist as if they are their own religion. 

Zhong-li watches you pick up a white furred cat and let it’s nose rest against yours for a brief moment. You hug it and sing to it like it is a child and when you’re done, you let it fondly nudge against your legs.

“Stop being bad and let me cook dinner,” you’ll say, like it knows. And maybe it does - Zhong-li thinks to himself that it might. It prances off and sleeps in the basket you’ve bought, covered in blankets and linens. He stares at you for a long while, his eyes dancing down your silhouette.

There is something remarkably human about love. Perhaps love is the one thing gods cannot truly get their hands on. This greed, this loneliness, this tender feeling - so soft it might fall apart in his hands. In all of his years of living, he likes to believe he has known love. For his companions and for his people. 

But this affection that soaks his bones, greedy and aching to be cared for, must be something only a human could get their hands on. He thinks he could only love you like this with his mortal body, his beating heart and dry mouth. With golden eyes that blink at you, curious to know what you’ll do or say next. If humanity is grieving, perhaps love is acceptance. Reconciliation. Maybe the reason no human complains about a short life is because they, at least once, have loved. 

He thinks he understands it briefly. If redoing everything meant he couldn’t be with you, even once, he would keep it all the same. What a sentiment. He smiles at you as you dance and the sunlight hits the bare skin of your thighs, buried in the expanse of your skin. He longs to be so close to you too. 

Remembering he can choose to be so close to you. That he can act upon this insatiable desire to be loved. It feels forbidden and unreachable. 

But it isn’t. 

He holds out his hand to you and you pause, tilting your head before taking it. He stands and wraps his arms around your waist and stares down at you with so much affection you falter. His lips press against the crown of your head. You’re warm and real.

When love finds him, it is just like this. Under the setting sun of Teyvat, harbored in his mortal body. 

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