[The soothing cloth across his face is a balm and his eyes flutter closed of their own accord, a relieved sigh escaping his lips. He's been feeling under the weather for days now, though he'd been hoping it would pass without truly settling in. Instead, yesterday morning he'd woken in a fog, vision spinning and head heavy with impending fever. He didn't have student teaching that day thankfully, but he'd dutifully poured over his thesis for several hours and completed editing several student papers for his side job.
By the time the afternoon rolled around, the fever had set in and he was being plagued by the beginnings of a cough. He doesn't actually remember much of what happened after that. At some point he'd crawled into bed early and just stayed there. He doesn't think he had dinner. Definitely didn't have breakfast. He isn't exactly hungry though. Mostly he wants to lie down and fade into any kind of peaceful oblivion that will ease the throbbing behind his eyes.
A gentle hand on his chin pulls him back to the present and his eyes slip back open as he instinctively leans into the comforting hold.]
You're too good to me, Lan Zhan. [And then] That feels nice.
[ Lan Zhan is upset with himself that he did not notice sooner, he had considered himself somewhat of an expert in Wei Ying but somehow he had managed to hide this. Until he physically could not any longer.
When Wei Ying leans into the touch, Lan Zhan feels a little of his composure crumble away; a small concerned frown between his eyebrows and a downturned mouth. Wei Ying is tactile, yes, but does not wish to ever appear vulnerable. That move was both. ]
Not too good.
[ He says, finished wiping the sweat from his brow. He puts the cloth to one side and then brings the other hand to cradle Wei Ying's face, feeling how warm he is to the touch. Lan Zhan then lets go with one hand and brings the cup of steaming liquid to his lips so that he can drink it. ]
You must keep drinking fluids, it will help.
[ He would make him eat, but he doesn't want to risk upsetting his stomach and making him feel worse. ]
[Eyes fluttering back open, he offers Lan Zhan a hazy gaze, brow furrowed as he tries to understand just what that comment meant. He's distracted quickly after though by the tea at his lips and he takes a dutiful sip, groaning softly at the feeling of the hot liquid hitting the back of his raw throat. He takes several more sips, grateful for Lan Zhan supporting his chin because his entire body feels heavy right now and he isn't sure he could drink properly without the support.
After a couple more sips, he sighs and turns away, allowing his side to rest against Lan Zhan's, forehead coming to rest against his shoulder.]
Sorry, sorry...just...just gonna rest here for a moment, if that's okay.
[He frowns then even if Lan Zhan can't see it.]
...I really am gonna get you sick like this. [He pulls back quickly, flinching when the quick movement sets his head spinning and then again when he hits the headboard of his bed with a little too much force. At least he's still upright though, and no longer getting his germs all over Lan Zhan.]
[ The patch of shoulder that had been pressed to Wei Ying was cold, his fever warm body already burning but it was a known side affect of any body part that came in contact with him. Lan Zhan has to fight to not immediately pull Wei Ying back as he moves, but at the thud of his body hitting the headboard he cannot restrain himself, hand creeping up to rest on Wei Ying's sweaty nape. ]
More than okay.
[ Lan Zhan murmurs, eyes flicking across Wei Ying's scrunched face. He uses the hand as his neck to ever so gently tug him back forwards again, so his head rests on the should he vacated so abruptly. Lan Zhan is not telling the whole truth when he speaks next, but he is not lying either. ]
Needed to get to the back of your neck. Keep your body cool.
[ He loops the other arm around Wei Ying's shoulder as the hand on his neck scoops up the hair that has clearly not seen a shower in a couple days. He uses the now less damp cool cloth, laying it across the back and letting it absorb all the moisture that had been trapped under there. ]
I am very healthy. It will take a lot to make me sick.
[ A direct exchange of fluids would do it, but they are as unlikely to kiss now that Wei Ying is ill as they ever were, so it's a non-concern. This position also means that Wei Ying can breathe more easily, fluid in his lungs settling down and his breath going from raspy to only wheezing. ]
[Wei Ying doesn't bother to put up a fight, even if he isn't sure he believes that he won't get him sick. It feels too nice to resist and he slumps into Lan Zhan's hold, the newly gathered tension immediately fading away. As much as he's slept, his sleep has been fitful, often waking disoriented or in a coughing fit. He'd tried sleeping sitting up, but the angle against his headboard had been uncomfortable even with a pillow shoved up against it.
Here, half sitting up but supported by Lan Zhan's arms, he finally feels like he can breathe and rest at the same time. A sigh or relief passes through his lips and he nuzzles instinctively into Lan Zhan's hold.]
'm so gross Lan Zhan. You don't have to touch me. My hair is...[He wrinkles his nose.]
[ Lan Zhan smiles where Wei Ying cannot see. His relaxing body slumps like a a chocolate bar on a hot pavement, giving Lan Zhan ample excuse for this strange half hug he is enjoying. ]
When the medicines have started working, I can help you wash your hair.
[ He offers, he knows sometimes feeling gross is as much about cleanliness as actual health. It wouldn't be a hardship, while Wei Ying is so visibly under the weather Lan Zhan isn't even tempted by the thought of his naked body. ]
[Wei Ying lets out a soft happy sound at the suggestion, already looking forward to the hot water and feeling of being clean. That's as far as his thoughts allow him to get on the idea, far too enamored with it to think of any of the logistics just yet.
At the question, a whine emerges from his throat and he burrows even further into Lan Zhan's comfortable arms.]
All I've been doing is sleeping...[Even if he is in fact, still tired.]
[ He cannot resist gently stroking the back of Wei Ying's hair as he snuffles closer. It is the cutest thing Lan Zhan has ever heard, including his own rabbits. ]
You need the energy to get better. If you do not want to sleep just yet I will keep you company.
[ He removes the cloth and thinks a moment. Then he takes Wei Ying by the shoulders and gently tips him back for a moment.]
Hold on. I am only rearranging.
[ Lan Zhan carefully holds Wei Ying upright as he stands, then sidles around the edge of the bed and sits at the head of it. With a look of focus akin to a man doing neurosurgery he slides a leg behind Wei Ying until he is sat in the 'v' of Lan Zhan's legs.
Once settles against the headboard, he pulls Wei Ying back to rest on his chest.]
Now we are both comfortable, and you can still breathe easily.
[ Lan Zhan knows this is a risk, but if it works then it is worth it. ]
[After letting out another soft whine at the separation, he happily melts into Lan Zhan's arms, tilting his head back to smile hazily up at Lan Zhan through his fringe.]
I like this. We should do this all the time. [With a contented sigh, he reaches for Lan Zhan's arms and pulls them around him like a seat belt, patting them once and then reaching to lazily tug one of the blankets up and over them both.]
Lan Zhan, you're the best. Did you know that? How am I supposed to rest when you're sitting there all...[He lifts a hand in a vague gesture but since his hand is under the blanket, it isn't much of an explanation. Unaware of his totally incomprehensible explanation, he loses the train of conversation as he makes himself more comfortable, turning slightly so that he can rest his cheek against Lan Zhan's chest. It is the most comfortable he has been in...in a long time. Way before he was sick. In Lan Zhan's arms he feels safe and warm and all things cozy and good.]
[ The little whine undoes him. Internally he is bright red and cooing over how cute Wei Ying is, externally he is the same as ever with slightly flushed ears. He clears his throat before agreeing. ]
Mn.
[ He does like this, Wei Ying safe in his arms, happy to be there. But he is also aware that he enjoys it too much. It does not mean for Wei Ying what it means for him and a small part of him shrieks a warning whenever he gets this close, but for today he has stamped it out. Silenced it. Making Wei Ying feel better is his top priority and he will not let his own brain distract him from that. ]
We can do this whenever you wish.
[ Lan Zhan does not lie. He would let Wei Ying do this anytime, anywhere. In the middle of his classes, late at night on his couch or even in front of his uncle at his monthly family dinner. He would not care. He realises that Wei Ying has continued talking, but fortunately mostly nothing that required an actual response. ]
I am not the best, but I appreciate the thought. I am doing what anyone should do when someone they are close to is very sick.
[ At least, he hopes he is. He doesn't exactly have many friends and Wei Ying is, lets be frank; a class of his own. Wei Ying nuzzles into his chest and Lan Zhan reflexively tightens his grip, hands coming up from where Wei Ying had draped them to stroking down his back and one treacherous hand even creeps up to cup Wei Ying's jaw and play with the little baby hairs at his temple. ]
You are my favourite, too.
[ He rumbles quietly, stroking the soft pyjamas Wei Ying fell into yesterday and hasn't had the chance to wash. He is planning that once Wei Ying naps, he can chase him into the shower, lay out some clean clothes of Lan Zhan's that may fit and then help wash his hair until he felt hungry enough to try eating. ]
[Lan Zhan doesn't have to wait long because even as Wei Ying is murmuring a nonsensical response, the soft glide of fingers along his back and tracing across his jaw are soothing him to sleep. He continues to mumble for a minute after his eyes close, but soon enough even those give way to the occasional sleepy sigh. Not five minutes later he is completely out.
He nestles himself into Lan Zhan's arms, breath coming easily and sleeping restfully for the first time in several days. (Longer, honestly, if he counts his usual struggles with insomnia.) For more than an hour and a half he sleeps soundly without stirring once, content and warm in Lan Zhan's arms.
Only after a long while has passed does he begin to shift, his eyes fluttering open to blink up at Lan Zhan in muted surprise. It takes him a moment to realize that Lan Zhan really had come over, it hadn't been just a dream. He yawns, shoving his face into Lan Zhan's chest and then pulling back far enough to begin to sit up. His cheeks are still flush with fever, but there's a contentment present in him that wasn't there before as he smiles at his friend.]
[ Wei Ying asleep is a treat that Lan Zhan avoids like a man with a chocolate addiction and diabetes. He loves it - for Wei Ying never has had enough sleep the night before - but he should not have it. This is because, in his mind, it will either enable him to watch Wei Ying sleep with enough focus to be considered 'creepy', or it will make Lan Zhan die slowly from how cute it is, how much Lan Zhan loves Wei Ying and the chest cracking pain of knowing he can never be his.
But he does manage to pass the time unmoving, occasionally stroking his fingers through Wei Ying's hair and down his back. He did it without thinking and it was so soft he had to do it again immediately. He has become unable to stop. When the precious bundle in his lap starts making movements, he makes an enquiring hum in the back of his throat.
When Wei Ying leans back to start to sit up, Lan Zhan reaches up with his now free hand and presses it to Wei Ying's forehead. His temperature is cooler than it was, thanks to the medicine, but still higher than Lan Zhan would like. He responds to the most precious person in his life.]
[Were he in his complete right mind, even Wei Ying might have enough shame to feel bad for taking advantage of Lan Zhan like this. As it is though, his fever provides just enough disorientation that he can't summon the will to care, not when he feels so good with Lan Zhan's arms around him and Lan Zhan's soft voice soothing him.]
Better with you here. [He says, more sincerely than normal Wei Ying ever would have. It's the truth though and right now he can find no reason not to say it. Though he supposes Lan Zhan might like a more thorough answer.]
Head isn't as fuzzy. Chest doesn't hurt as much. [He reaches up for the hand at his forehead, pulling it further down so that he can nuzzle his cheek into it instead.]
[ Watching Wei Ying be so unguarded, so trusting when he is vulnerable makes Lan Zhan feel like he could conquer the earth to be worthy of it. He has to swallow a lump in his throat. ]
Mn. Happy to be here.
[ He listens to Wei Ying talk about his symptoms even as he prepares to make his own assessments. He is about to feel for any sweat from the fever, he can already use the sensation of Wei Ying pressed against him to feel if his lungs are clear. He is stymied by the hand that reaches up and captures his own.
Lan Zhan nearly squeaks. ]
Wei Ying is softer.
[ He cannot stop his treacherous thumb from stroking across a cheekbone, feel the soft skin under it and burning it into his memory. ]
[Wei Ying hums softly, lips pulling up into a hazy smile.]
Mmhmm. Think so. [His appetite hasn't been consistent, but it's been a while since he's had anything, let alone anything that would actually be considered a meal. He doesn't actually feel too hungry, but he has to figure he must be. Plus, if it means Lan Zhan will stay a bit longer, he'll readily agree to pretty much anything.
With a soft reluctant sigh, he pulls away from Lan Zhan until he's fully sitting up on his own and setting his feet on the floor, not yet standing, but far closer to getting there.]
How long did I sleep, Lan Zhan? Aren't I keeping you from things?
[ The hum is adorable and Lan Zhan is annoyed by how much brain power it takes for him to concentrate and listen rather than revel in the scrunched nose and watery eyes it produces. ]
Perhaps something light. I have crackers or soup.
[ The loss of body contact makes him visibly frown for a second before he manages to get it back under wraps. He turns and sits next to Wei Ying on the edge of the bed, then stands and dusts off his trousers. He turns back to the slumped figure and judges his pyjamas inadequate. Lan Zhan strides across the room to the wardrobe hanging open, he looks but does not find any clean jumpers so he unthinkingly grabs his own and comes back to Wei Ying with it. ]
You slept for an hour, you needed the rest.
[ With the air of a flustered man who does not want to admit how long he would have stayed in the same place if Wei Ying needed him to, Lan Zhan rolls up the jumper and pops it over Wei Ying's head. He tugs it down and when it is settled, offers a hand to Wei Ying. ]
There is nothing more important that Wei Ying right now. Come.
[Lan Zhan moves to his wardrobe and Wei Ying's eyes follow his movement with curiosity. Upon realizing what he's doing when he approaches with his own jumper, Wei Ying has just opened his mouth to protest when he feels the jumper coming down over his head. With Lan Zhan's help, he pulls his head and arms through, though when he surfaces, his cheeks are bright red and he lets out a quiet nervous laugh.]
L-Lan Zhan! [The whine dies on his lips and he raises a hand to scratch at his nose, feeling stupidly pleased as the familiar scent of sandalwood drifts up to encompass him. Lan Zhan isn't too much bigger than him, but there's enough of a size difference that the sleeves reach the middle of his palms, and one side of the collar gapes open to reveal a sliver of pajama shirt and skin.]
See? Too good to me. [It comes out a mutter and he quickly reaches for his hand, rising far too quickly for someone who hasn't been on his feet almost at all for far too many hours. Blood rushes to his head and he sways into Lan Zhan's side, closing his eyes to shut out the sudden dizzy spell.]
[ Wei Ying's red cheeks threaten his fragmented composure and he has to fight a smile, he manages to keep it contained to just his eyes. He could potentially never ask for anything again now he has witnessed Wei Ying, sleep rumpled and fluffy, tucked into his larger jumper. His fingers stick out the too long sleeves and he has to clench his fist in repressed delight. ]
Wei Ying. I am at least doing what you deserve.
[ Wei Ying stands and totters, Lan Zhan's heart leaps into his mouth as he props him up. ]
Wei Ying!
[ He wraps an arm around him to hold him close, to minimise the risk and then looks searchingly at his face. ]
Are you alright?
[ Taking a risky but decisive course of action, Lan Zhan scoops Wei Ying to his chest. He is burning with embarrassment, knowing that Wei Ying is unwell and this is almost self serving, but only his ears show it by glowing that fabulous red. He supports Wei Ying as best he can as they shuffle to the living room, plopping his precious cargo on the sofa and grabbing a rug to bundle him up in. ]
[Letting out a startled sound as he suddenly finds himself pressed close to Lan Zhan's chest, Wei Ying relaxes almost immediately after, laughing under his breath at his own useless limbs. It isn't the easiest thing to shuffle into the living room that way, but he doesn't feel like he's going to fall and he's hardly going to protest the warmth of Lan Zhan all around him.
Once he's sitting, he tugs the throw that Lan Zhan wraps around him tighter over his shoulders and fixes his friend with a wobbly smile.]
Ah...I really am a useless mess right now, aren't I? [He chuckles again and relaxes into the couch cushions.]
[ Lan Zhan's heart wrenches in his chest as Wei Ying speaks, kneeling in front of him and tucking the blanket more securely, he speaks gently but firmly. ]
Not useless. Sick. You have been working very hard, you are allowed to rest. It is no imposition to me to help you.
[ Afraid he has revealed too much Lan Zhan hurries to the kitchen; the soup is in a small Tupperware that he pries open and pours into a saucepan. He had made it last night beforehand for his own lunches, but not trusting Wei Ying to have any of the essentials he had immediately brought it over instead. ]
It is not chicken and noodle, or pork rib and lotus, but I hope this will suffice.
[ The soup comes to simmer while he opens the cupboard for a plate and bowl, tipping some of the crackers from the packet he brought onto the plate in an artful fashion. He tips the soup into the bowl, grabs a spoon and bring it over on a tray with the crackers. ]
It is mulligatawny soup. Very healthy, it will help you get the vitamins you need to feel better. Do you want a hot or cold drink?
[By the time Lan Zhan returns, Wei Ying is smiling warmly in his direction, eyes flickering between the soup and crackers and then back up to Lan Zhan's face with what can only be named affection. He swallows over a lump in his throat and makes room for the tray, still smiling up at his friend.]
Um, hot tea is fine. And this will more than suffice, Lan Zhan. You brought it over for me after all. [Even if it's terrible, even if it's so bland he'd normally whine, it is obviously perfect because Lan Zhan brought it for him. Glancing down at the soup finally and dragging his eyes away from Lan Zhan, he finds himself blinking with surprise.]
Did you make this? [It's a silly question, of course he did. Wei Ying groans and hides his face in his hands, feeling heat rise into his cheeks that has nothing to do with fever.] You're killing me, Lan Zhan. How am I supposed to survive this?
[ Lan Zhan watches Wei Ying settle and inspect his offerings, he is pleased to provide for Wei Ying. It satisfies a small part of himself he does not name under the light of day. ]
You are more than welcome.
[ He visibly colours a little when he is questioned about the soup, how can he phrase this without completely exposing himself and all his secrets? ]
I was... experimenting. It is a new recipe, when I discovered the spices I thought you may like to try it. I would have given it to you at work for lunch when you forgot. I did make it without the chicken, apologies.
[ His face softens when Wei Ying collapses into the sofa, tempted to kneel down and take his face in his hands and beam love and self worth directly into Wei Ying's skull. As it is he half smiles instead. ]
You will live, I will ensure it. Eat the soup, Wei Ying.
[ He turns before Wei Ying can see the softness in his eyes, the adoration on his face. He goes and boils the kettle, picking out a ginger and lemon herbal tea that he adds a spoonful of honey to. He makes a different herbal tea for himself as he does so, but with far less love and care. None of this comes from Wei Ying's kitchen, he brought it in the 'Wei Ying is sick' frenzy pack and shop on the way over. He did not expect Wei Ying to have half of what he needed, especially with Lan Zhan's high (aka not discounted or out of date) standards.
Once the tea is brewed for exactly two minutes he takes out the tea bag, grasps the mugs by the handle and walks back to Wei Ying. He puts his own down on Wei Ying's attempt at a coffee table which is really more a crate turned on it's side next to one end of the sofa. Then, he kneels in front of Wei Ying and holds the tea. He blows on it once, twice, before putting it on the tray. ]
[The explanation does nothing to settle Wei Ying, instead only furthering the heat he feels gathering in his cheeks. Lan Zhan is always sweet to him and always looking out for his well being when Wei Ying forgets. He reminds him to eat, even going so far as to send texts during those weeks when he knows Wei Ying's schedule is ridiculously overloaded, always asks after his sleep, and has made it a routine of shoving water bottles at him on a regular basis.
The care Lan Zhan takes with him isn't new. Lan Zhan has perhaps not had as much opportunity as Wei Ying's illness is currently affording him to dote on his friend, but it isn't exactly surprising. (Even though it is, because it always is, because Wei Ying will never understand why when he is just...Wei Ying. Disappointing, never good enough, burdensome Wei Ying.)
That Lan Zhan was experimenting with this soup prior to his illness because he thought Wei Ying would like it is enough to nearly do him in by itself. The nap and the cuddling, the sandalwood scented sweater, the soup and the spices. It's all too much.
But for some reason it is none of that. In the end, it's the casually given instruction. "Be careful, it's hot." Maybe it's the simple domesticity of it. The casual delivery, as if this is routine—as if it could be.
A lump forms in his throat and he feels his eyes stinging, so he quickly takes a spoonful of the soup and shoves it into his mouth before he can say something stupid like 'did you know I love you, Lan Zhan?' or 'please stop being so kind, I'll wear out my welcome so much faster this way.'
Instead, he swallows over the lump and the soup, smiling around another spoonful and waiting until the ache in his throat has vanished before he speaks.]
[ Lan Zhan feels his heart melt into a little puddle of goo and love when Wei Ying immediately stuffs his face like a hamster. He smiles up at him and lets himself stay kneeling until Wei Ying speaks, as a small treat. His heart flipflops at the declaration of love at the soup and for a split irrational second he is consumed with jealousy. Then it subsides into the strange desire to spoon feed it too Wei Ying instead. ]
Mn. Good. Eat slowly, do not worry about finishing the whole bowl, only what you can.
[ He swallows down the words crowding on his tongue, _do not worry, I am here and I love you,_ stands and then settles with his own tea next to Wei Ying on the couch. This is as close as he normally gets and he scolds himself for wishing they were back in bed, entwined together. ]
I have medication for when you are finished.
[ He fumbles a little now, comfortable in the silence and scraping of the spoon, but knows Wei Ying typically is not. ]
Do you wish to watch anything while you eat? Or are you too tired?
[While Lan Zhan still has his composure and wits about him, Wei Ying has no such obstacles in his way, and the moment Lan Zhan has settled, he adjusts himself so that he's snuggled into Lan Zhan's side, only facing forward still so that he can continue to eat. Despite the still low fever, his mind is clear enough that he knows exactly what he's doing, but if Lan Zhan should ask it's an easy enough excuse to give.
When he has finished readjusting, he peers at Lan Zhan with a tilt of his head, cheeks lightly flushed but smile unrepentant.]
For the cold. [He returns to his soup and takes several more spoonfuls before answering the question.]
I couldn't focus on watching anything right now. [His eyes twinkle when he focuses them on his friend, one eyebrow lifting in a tease.] Is this your way of trying to get me not to speak while we eat?
[It isn't, he knows. Lan Zhan has long given up that fight, but it's too fun to tease.]
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no subject
By the time the afternoon rolled around, the fever had set in and he was being plagued by the beginnings of a cough. He doesn't actually remember much of what happened after that. At some point he'd crawled into bed early and just stayed there. He doesn't think he had dinner. Definitely didn't have breakfast. He isn't exactly hungry though. Mostly he wants to lie down and fade into any kind of peaceful oblivion that will ease the throbbing behind his eyes.
A gentle hand on his chin pulls him back to the present and his eyes slip back open as he instinctively leans into the comforting hold.]
You're too good to me, Lan Zhan. [And then] That feels nice.
no subject
When Wei Ying leans into the touch, Lan Zhan feels a little of his composure crumble away; a small concerned frown between his eyebrows and a downturned mouth. Wei Ying is tactile, yes, but does not wish to ever appear vulnerable. That move was both. ]
Not too good.
[ He says, finished wiping the sweat from his brow. He puts the cloth to one side and then brings the other hand to cradle Wei Ying's face, feeling how warm he is to the touch. Lan Zhan then lets go with one hand and brings the cup of steaming liquid to his lips so that he can drink it. ]
You must keep drinking fluids, it will help.
[ He would make him eat, but he doesn't want to risk upsetting his stomach and making him feel worse. ]
no subject
After a couple more sips, he sighs and turns away, allowing his side to rest against Lan Zhan's, forehead coming to rest against his shoulder.]
Sorry, sorry...just...just gonna rest here for a moment, if that's okay.
[He frowns then even if Lan Zhan can't see it.]
...I really am gonna get you sick like this. [He pulls back quickly, flinching when the quick movement sets his head spinning and then again when he hits the headboard of his bed with a little too much force. At least he's still upright though, and no longer getting his germs all over Lan Zhan.]
no subject
More than okay.
[ Lan Zhan murmurs, eyes flicking across Wei Ying's scrunched face. He uses the hand as his neck to ever so gently tug him back forwards again, so his head rests on the should he vacated so abruptly. Lan Zhan is not telling the whole truth when he speaks next, but he is not lying either. ]
Needed to get to the back of your neck. Keep your body cool.
[ He loops the other arm around Wei Ying's shoulder as the hand on his neck scoops up the hair that has clearly not seen a shower in a couple days. He uses the now less damp cool cloth, laying it across the back and letting it absorb all the moisture that had been trapped under there. ]
I am very healthy. It will take a lot to make me sick.
[ A direct exchange of fluids would do it, but they are as unlikely to kiss now that Wei Ying is ill as they ever were, so it's a non-concern. This position also means that Wei Ying can breathe more easily, fluid in his lungs settling down and his breath going from raspy to only wheezing. ]
no subject
Here, half sitting up but supported by Lan Zhan's arms, he finally feels like he can breathe and rest at the same time. A sigh or relief passes through his lips and he nuzzles instinctively into Lan Zhan's hold.]
'm so gross Lan Zhan. You don't have to touch me. My hair is...[He wrinkles his nose.]
no subject
When the medicines have started working, I can help you wash your hair.
[ He offers, he knows sometimes feeling gross is as much about cleanliness as actual health. It wouldn't be a hardship, while Wei Ying is so visibly under the weather Lan Zhan isn't even tempted by the thought of his naked body. ]
Do you wish to go back to sleep?
no subject
At the question, a whine emerges from his throat and he burrows even further into Lan Zhan's comfortable arms.]
All I've been doing is sleeping...[Even if he is in fact, still tired.]
no subject
[ He cannot resist gently stroking the back of Wei Ying's hair as he snuffles closer. It is the cutest thing Lan Zhan has ever heard, including his own rabbits. ]
You need the energy to get better. If you do not want to sleep just yet I will keep you company.
[ He removes the cloth and thinks a moment. Then he takes Wei Ying by the shoulders and gently tips him back for a moment.]
Hold on. I am only rearranging.
[ Lan Zhan carefully holds Wei Ying upright as he stands, then sidles around the edge of the bed and sits at the head of it. With a look of focus akin to a man doing neurosurgery he slides a leg behind Wei Ying until he is sat in the 'v' of Lan Zhan's legs.
Once settles against the headboard, he pulls Wei Ying back to rest on his chest.]
Now we are both comfortable, and you can still breathe easily.
[ Lan Zhan knows this is a risk, but if it works then it is worth it. ]
Rest if you need to. I can talk if you do not.
no subject
I like this. We should do this all the time. [With a contented sigh, he reaches for Lan Zhan's arms and pulls them around him like a seat belt, patting them once and then reaching to lazily tug one of the blankets up and over them both.]
Lan Zhan, you're the best. Did you know that? How am I supposed to rest when you're sitting there all...[He lifts a hand in a vague gesture but since his hand is under the blanket, it isn't much of an explanation. Unaware of his totally incomprehensible explanation, he loses the train of conversation as he makes himself more comfortable, turning slightly so that he can rest his cheek against Lan Zhan's chest. It is the most comfortable he has been in...in a long time. Way before he was sick. In Lan Zhan's arms he feels safe and warm and all things cozy and good.]
You're my favorite.
no subject
Mn.
[ He does like this, Wei Ying safe in his arms, happy to be there. But he is also aware that he enjoys it too much. It does not mean for Wei Ying what it means for him and a small part of him shrieks a warning whenever he gets this close, but for today he has stamped it out. Silenced it. Making Wei Ying feel better is his top priority and he will not let his own brain distract him from that. ]
We can do this whenever you wish.
[ Lan Zhan does not lie. He would let Wei Ying do this anytime, anywhere. In the middle of his classes, late at night on his couch or even in front of his uncle at his monthly family dinner. He would not care. He realises that Wei Ying has continued talking, but fortunately mostly nothing that required an actual response. ]
I am not the best, but I appreciate the thought. I am doing what anyone should do when someone they are close to is very sick.
[ At least, he hopes he is. He doesn't exactly have many friends and Wei Ying is, lets be frank; a class of his own. Wei Ying nuzzles into his chest and Lan Zhan reflexively tightens his grip, hands coming up from where Wei Ying had draped them to stroking down his back and one treacherous hand even creeps up to cup Wei Ying's jaw and play with the little baby hairs at his temple. ]
You are my favourite, too.
[ He rumbles quietly, stroking the soft pyjamas Wei Ying fell into yesterday and hasn't had the chance to wash. He is planning that once Wei Ying naps, he can chase him into the shower, lay out some clean clothes of Lan Zhan's that may fit and then help wash his hair until he felt hungry enough to try eating. ]
That tag is so cute, I'm losing it
He nestles himself into Lan Zhan's arms, breath coming easily and sleeping restfully for the first time in several days. (Longer, honestly, if he counts his usual struggles with insomnia.) For more than an hour and a half he sleeps soundly without stirring once, content and warm in Lan Zhan's arms.
Only after a long while has passed does he begin to shift, his eyes fluttering open to blink up at Lan Zhan in muted surprise. It takes him a moment to realize that Lan Zhan really had come over, it hadn't been just a dream. He yawns, shoving his face into Lan Zhan's chest and then pulling back far enough to begin to sit up. His cheeks are still flush with fever, but there's a contentment present in him that wasn't there before as he smiles at his friend.]
Hi Lan Zhan.
*bows* I can be the softest boy
He loves it - for Wei Ying never has had enough sleep the night before - but he should not have it. This is because, in his mind, it will either enable him to watch Wei Ying sleep with enough focus to be considered 'creepy', or it will make Lan Zhan die slowly from how cute it is, how much Lan Zhan loves Wei Ying and the chest cracking pain of knowing he can never be his.
But he does manage to pass the time unmoving, occasionally stroking his fingers through Wei Ying's hair and down his back. He did it without thinking and it was so soft he had to do it again immediately. He has become unable to stop. When the precious bundle in his lap starts making movements, he makes an enquiring hum in the back of his throat.
When Wei Ying leans back to start to sit up, Lan Zhan reaches up with his now free hand and presses it to Wei Ying's forehead. His temperature is cooler than it was, thanks to the medicine, but still higher than Lan Zhan would like. He responds to the most precious person in his life.]
Hello Wei Ying.
[ He half smiles. ]
How are you feeling?
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Better with you here. [He says, more sincerely than normal Wei Ying ever would have. It's the truth though and right now he can find no reason not to say it. Though he supposes Lan Zhan might like a more thorough answer.]
Head isn't as fuzzy. Chest doesn't hurt as much. [He reaches up for the hand at his forehead, pulling it further down so that he can nuzzle his cheek into it instead.]
Lan Zhan is soft.
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Mn. Happy to be here.
[ He listens to Wei Ying talk about his symptoms even as he prepares to make his own assessments. He is about to feel for any sweat from the fever, he can already use the sensation of Wei Ying pressed against him to feel if his lungs are clear. He is stymied by the hand that reaches up and captures his own.
Lan Zhan nearly squeaks. ]
Wei Ying is softer.
[ He cannot stop his treacherous thumb from stroking across a cheekbone, feel the soft skin under it and burning it into his memory. ]
Are you hungry?
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Mmhmm. Think so. [His appetite hasn't been consistent, but it's been a while since he's had anything, let alone anything that would actually be considered a meal. He doesn't actually feel too hungry, but he has to figure he must be. Plus, if it means Lan Zhan will stay a bit longer, he'll readily agree to pretty much anything.
With a soft reluctant sigh, he pulls away from Lan Zhan until he's fully sitting up on his own and setting his feet on the floor, not yet standing, but far closer to getting there.]
How long did I sleep, Lan Zhan? Aren't I keeping you from things?
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Perhaps something light. I have crackers or soup.
[ The loss of body contact makes him visibly frown for a second before he manages to get it back under wraps. He turns and sits next to Wei Ying on the edge of the bed, then stands and dusts off his trousers. He turns back to the slumped figure and judges his pyjamas inadequate. Lan Zhan strides across the room to the wardrobe hanging open, he looks but does not find any clean jumpers so he unthinkingly grabs his own and comes back to Wei Ying with it. ]
You slept for an hour, you needed the rest.
[ With the air of a flustered man who does not want to admit how long he would have stayed in the same place if Wei Ying needed him to, Lan Zhan rolls up the jumper and pops it over Wei Ying's head. He tugs it down and when it is settled, offers a hand to Wei Ying. ]
There is nothing more important that Wei Ying right now. Come.
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L-Lan Zhan! [The whine dies on his lips and he raises a hand to scratch at his nose, feeling stupidly pleased as the familiar scent of sandalwood drifts up to encompass him. Lan Zhan isn't too much bigger than him, but there's enough of a size difference that the sleeves reach the middle of his palms, and one side of the collar gapes open to reveal a sliver of pajama shirt and skin.]
See? Too good to me. [It comes out a mutter and he quickly reaches for his hand, rising far too quickly for someone who hasn't been on his feet almost at all for far too many hours. Blood rushes to his head and he sways into Lan Zhan's side, closing his eyes to shut out the sudden dizzy spell.]
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Wei Ying. I am at least doing what you deserve.
[ Wei Ying stands and totters, Lan Zhan's heart leaps into his mouth as he props him up. ]
Wei Ying!
[ He wraps an arm around him to hold him close, to minimise the risk and then looks searchingly at his face. ]
Are you alright?
[ Taking a risky but decisive course of action, Lan Zhan scoops Wei Ying to his chest. He is burning with embarrassment, knowing that Wei Ying is unwell and this is almost self serving, but only his ears show it by glowing that fabulous red. He supports Wei Ying as best he can as they shuffle to the living room, plopping his precious cargo on the sofa and grabbing a rug to bundle him up in. ]
Wait here, I will bring your food.
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Once he's sitting, he tugs the throw that Lan Zhan wraps around him tighter over his shoulders and fixes his friend with a wobbly smile.]
Ah...I really am a useless mess right now, aren't I? [He chuckles again and relaxes into the couch cushions.]
I'll wait here. [Pause.] Thanks Lan Zhan.
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Not useless. Sick. You have been working very hard, you are allowed to rest. It is no imposition to me to help you.
[ Afraid he has revealed too much Lan Zhan hurries to the kitchen; the soup is in a small Tupperware that he pries open and pours into a saucepan. He had made it last night beforehand for his own lunches, but not trusting Wei Ying to have any of the essentials he had immediately brought it over instead. ]
It is not chicken and noodle, or pork rib and lotus, but I hope this will suffice.
[ The soup comes to simmer while he opens the cupboard for a plate and bowl, tipping some of the crackers from the packet he brought onto the plate in an artful fashion. He tips the soup into the bowl, grabs a spoon and bring it over on a tray with the crackers. ]
It is mulligatawny soup. Very healthy, it will help you get the vitamins you need to feel better. Do you want a hot or cold drink?
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Um, hot tea is fine. And this will more than suffice, Lan Zhan. You brought it over for me after all. [Even if it's terrible, even if it's so bland he'd normally whine, it is obviously perfect because Lan Zhan brought it for him. Glancing down at the soup finally and dragging his eyes away from Lan Zhan, he finds himself blinking with surprise.]
Did you make this? [It's a silly question, of course he did. Wei Ying groans and hides his face in his hands, feeling heat rise into his cheeks that has nothing to do with fever.] You're killing me, Lan Zhan. How am I supposed to survive this?
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You are more than welcome.
[ He visibly colours a little when he is questioned about the soup, how can he phrase this without completely exposing himself and all his secrets? ]
I was... experimenting. It is a new recipe, when I discovered the spices I thought you may like to try it. I would have given it to you at work for lunch when you forgot. I did make it without the chicken, apologies.
[ His face softens when Wei Ying collapses into the sofa, tempted to kneel down and take his face in his hands and beam love and self worth directly into Wei Ying's skull. As it is he half smiles instead. ]
You will live, I will ensure it. Eat the soup, Wei Ying.
[ He turns before Wei Ying can see the softness in his eyes, the adoration on his face. He goes and boils the kettle, picking out a ginger and lemon herbal tea that he adds a spoonful of honey to. He makes a different herbal tea for himself as he does so, but with far less love and care. None of this comes from Wei Ying's kitchen, he brought it in the 'Wei Ying is sick' frenzy pack and shop on the way over. He did not expect Wei Ying to have half of what he needed, especially with Lan Zhan's high (aka not discounted or out of date) standards.
Once the tea is brewed for exactly two minutes he takes out the tea bag, grasps the mugs by the handle and walks back to Wei Ying. He puts his own down on Wei Ying's attempt at a coffee table which is really more a crate turned on it's side next to one end of the sofa. Then, he kneels in front of Wei Ying and holds the tea. He blows on it once, twice, before putting it on the tray. ]
Be careful, it is hot.
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The care Lan Zhan takes with him isn't new. Lan Zhan has perhaps not had as much opportunity as Wei Ying's illness is currently affording him to dote on his friend, but it isn't exactly surprising. (Even though it is, because it always is, because Wei Ying will never understand why when he is just...Wei Ying. Disappointing, never good enough, burdensome Wei Ying.)
That Lan Zhan was experimenting with this soup prior to his illness because he thought Wei Ying would like it is enough to nearly do him in by itself. The nap and the cuddling, the sandalwood scented sweater, the soup and the spices. It's all too much.
But for some reason it is none of that. In the end, it's the casually given instruction. "Be careful, it's hot." Maybe it's the simple domesticity of it. The casual delivery, as if this is routine—as if it could be.
A lump forms in his throat and he feels his eyes stinging, so he quickly takes a spoonful of the soup and shoves it into his mouth before he can say something stupid like 'did you know I love you, Lan Zhan?' or 'please stop being so kind, I'll wear out my welcome so much faster this way.'
Instead, he swallows over the lump and the soup, smiling around another spoonful and waiting until the ache in his throat has vanished before he speaks.]
It's really good. Thank you. I...I love it.
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Mn. Good. Eat slowly, do not worry about finishing the whole bowl, only what you can.
[ He swallows down the words crowding on his tongue, _do not worry, I am here and I love you,_ stands and then settles with his own tea next to Wei Ying on the couch. This is as close as he normally gets and he scolds himself for wishing they were back in bed, entwined together. ]
I have medication for when you are finished.
[ He fumbles a little now, comfortable in the silence and scraping of the spoon, but knows Wei Ying typically is not. ]
Do you wish to watch anything while you eat? Or are you too tired?
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When he has finished readjusting, he peers at Lan Zhan with a tilt of his head, cheeks lightly flushed but smile unrepentant.]
For the cold. [He returns to his soup and takes several more spoonfuls before answering the question.]
I couldn't focus on watching anything right now. [His eyes twinkle when he focuses them on his friend, one eyebrow lifting in a tease.] Is this your way of trying to get me not to speak while we eat?
[It isn't, he knows. Lan Zhan has long given up that fight, but it's too fun to tease.]
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