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Shards of metal collide with Lan Zhan’s chest, slamming him to the ground, warm liquid oozing down his body. The shadows explode with fireworks, an explosion blinding his amber eyes, ringing in his ears drowns out all sound. A sharp object punctures his neck, his thoughts swirl in a tornado of chaos, clarity fades to a hazy oblivion. Sirens signal the arrival of aid, medics scurry like ants, collecting the fallen Lan.
Flying across empty space, Lan Huan fails to reach the ambulance, the flashing lights racing away from the scene. Police are demanding statements, Meng Yao is managing the confusion, while Lan Qiren stands rooted in disbelief. Hours fall away before the tragedy is resolved, sabotage and an assassin ambushed their meeting, Lan Zhan paid the price.
The burial is a somber event, the sky sheds tears for the Lan ancestors, reducing the family to two core members. The patriarchs of the founding families pay their respects, Nie Huaisang attends for Nie Mingjie, who is fighting for his life in the intensive care unit. Lan Huan leans on Meng Yao, lost in his shock, his heart hemorrhaging with his pain.
Meanwhile, honey eyes struggle to comprehend the sunlight streaming through the windows. A salty breeze brushes against his face, his mind battling a thick fog that lingers within him. By sheer will, he lifts a heavy hand, exploring his chest and neck for wounds, finding only smooth skin. Silky material rustles along his sensitive flesh, strands of his hair tickle his face. In time, he raises his body to a sitting position, his eyes widen at the sight of the ocean outside this space. What insanity is this?
The room provides limited enlightenment, leading him to investigate outside, steps shuffling cautiously along the path taking him to a larger residence. Apparently he found himself in a sort of bungalow on an estate, the whitewashed architecture suits the sunny beaches and lush vegetation. Pausing at a covered veranda, supported by marble columns separated by arches, he scans the area for life. Silence reigns, his steps resume, the first room is a spacious open concept living room with kitchen. White walls bear bright works of art, naked windows permit the ocean breeze to flow freely. Thirst drives him to the kitchen, a well-stocked fridge a sign that he is not alone. Down the hall, a door opens and heavy steps get louder, coming closer.
Speechless, the men study one another, leaning on the counter as fatigue invades his system, he needs answers. “Explain.”
Soft words fail to satisfy, “In a few days, for now you’re a guest.” Gentle in nature, yet wide and muscular, the mystery man shifts to the kitchen to prepare a meal.
Exhaustion delivers the other man to an armchair, “I need to contact my family.” His tone conveys his doubt this will happen, yet he must ask. A hesitant head shake rejects the request. Perhaps he is dead, for some this place might be paradise.
Eat, sleep, explore. Days slide slowly by without understanding, the beach draws him. It takes mere hours to walk the circumference of the island, sparkling blue water defines the horizon in every direction. As prisons go, it’s lovely. Meals magically manifest in the kitchen, varied and vegetarian, gifts from the same chef. After lunch, he sinks his toes in the sand, mindlessly listening to the waves.
The tranquil atmosphere breaks with the squeal of a child, leaping over the water lapping the shore. An elderly woman calmly watches the antics of the energetic creature. He hopes he’s not dead, a child should be a sign of life. Halting suddenly in front of him, inquisitive brown eyes meet his golden gaze. Hopeful and earnest, “Will you build a sandcastle with me?”
Sitting in the shade, the woman watches the man and child construct an elaborate fortress, complete with moat. As the sky transforms into a brilliant painting, the woman holds out her hand for the child to follow. This pattern repeats until he realizes he’s been a guest for a week, the experience is surreal, like a dream. His nightmare begins on the morning of the eighth day.
The gentle giant waits for him with breakfast, after a quiet meal, he’s halfway down the hall when he says, “Follow me for answers.”
The study is dark, two leather office chairs face a flat screen on an otherwise empty wall. Unsure what to expect, he sinks into a chair, and waits. Manipulating his phone, the screen is bright and blank, voices escape the speakers, an audio file.
Meng Yao’s words startle him, stiffening his spine, “Are we clear?”
The second voice is unknown, “Yes, it’s time for the baby Lan to join his parents,” a dark chuckle punctuates his declaration, “His brother will be devastated.”
It’s possible to imagine a smirk on Meng Yao’s innocent features, “Exactly, his misery will find comfort in my arms, where he belongs. It’s seven years overdue.”
Manipulating the moment, the other voice turns flirtatiously playful, “Are you pleased with the effect of my elusive poison on the other distraction, dear Mingjue? Isolated in the ICU, I predict we will be attending a second funeral soon.”
“Very impressive work, Xue Yang, you’ve done well. The floral arrangement for Lan Zhan’s service was excellent; employ the same florists for Mingjue.” Satisfaction drips from Meng Yao’s praise, free of guilt or sadness for the fate of his sworn brother as the audio ends.
White knuckles grip the arms of his chair, anger floods his veins. He told his brother something felt off, multiple times, but his warnings fell on ears deafened by emotions.
A series of images flash on the screen, Lan Huan leaning on Meng Yao at a funeral, Meng Yao’s father consulting with Madame Yu, Lan Qiren and Wen Ruohan, more of his brother with Meng Yao at a different funeral.
The video of his death is alarming, the memory of that day emerging with more clarity. At the last minute, security insisted he wear a vest, leaving no time for him to ask his brother or uncle why it was necessary. The force of the bullets striking, the fluid possibly fake blood packets, the explosion a diversion for the tranquilizer shot at his neck. His next coherent moment waking in the bungalow.
A new video clip begins with Nie Huaisang firing accusations like arrows, aimed at Lan Qiren, “I accept you were in the dark about my brother’s murder at the hands of Meng Yao. However, your treatment of Wei Ying is unforgivable. The righteous Lan patriarch, condoning Madame Yu’s vile actions, betraying the child who took a poison arrow to save your nephew’s life. The lies you told without blinking, all along knowing she casts him back onto the streets in the dead of night, his body ravaged by poison. Thrown away like trash, the both of you disgust me.”
At Lan Huan’s gasp, Huaisang thirst for blood falls on him, “The not-so-innocent older brother, accomplice to the murder of both our brothers, enabling their killer with your blind trust and lack of faith. I’m sure you’re shocked to hear they believed Wei Ying dead, when you personally deleted his emails to Lan Zhan in the year following his disappearance, wiping the account from existence. Tell me, what did you do with all the letters he sent, begging his best friend to meet him, call him, write him?”
“I burned them,” shoulders slumping with the weight of grief and shame, “my brother didn’t need the distraction, he was hardly functioning.”
Lan Qiren interjects defensively, “That boy was never one of us, he threatened the stability of our families, negatively influencing our heirs.”
“There is no excuse for your choices, including staying silent about the illegal business practices of your inner circle.” Dismissing Lan Qiren, Huaisang focuses on Lan Huan, “You denied your brother the one person who could save him, choosing instead to banish him from your lives to be educated with strangers. Praising the cold shell of a man that returned, willing to trust and obey you both, causing his death.”
Body rigid with rage, Lan Zhan forces himself to pay attention to the final video clip. The Jiangs sit randomly around a formal room, Jin Zixuan hovering at Jiang Yanli’s shoulder, all eyes fixated on a laptop playing the previous video. Anguish filled eyes turn to Madame Yu, who springs to her feet, “What!? I never wanted that boy in my house, he was never family, he would have destroyed our children’s lives!” Clearly she never considered denying her actions, her feelings on the matter unchanged.
Once more, Huaisang’s voice narrates the scenario, “You didn’t deserve Wei Ying, your actions criminal, including your support of the corporate espionage that enabled the founding families to retain control.”
The arrival of agents interrupts him, informing Madame Yu of the charges she faces, removing her from the room. Huaisang’s features soften as he observes the weeping of Jiang Yanli and tortured expression on her brother’s face, their father silent as always. “Jin Zixuan, your father is being charged as well, in addition to Lan Qiren and Wen Ruohan, Meng Yao is the chief architect. A task force with agents from several federal branches just finalized an extensive sting operation. I’ll leave you to process in private.”
The screen goes dark, Lan Zhan’s ragged breathing dominates the office, the other man maintains a gentle tone, “Your uncle is out on bail pending trial, and your brother is under a doctor’s care due to mental distress.”
Lan Zhan gathers his thoughts, formulating questions, “Who are you?”
“Wen Ning, I indirectly work with the task force, presently securing your safety. The child is my nephew, Wen Yuan.”
A crack appears in the icy wall surrounding his heart, his throat scratchy with grief, “Wei Ying. Is he...alive? Is he...part of all this?”
“Yes,” Wen Ning doesn’t elaborate, “rest before lunch.”
Lan Zhan finds himself on the beach, pacing, truths and betrayals shattering his world. Overwhelmed by his emotions, he closes a door on anyone except Wei Ying. The only person who has ever really seen every aspect of Lan Zhan, without judgement. Images assault his heart, memories from their years at school, a smile and laugh that persisted until eventually Lan Zhan’s heart was liberated from the bondage of rules and criticism. His first and only friend, eventually love.
His reminiscing arrives at their final day together, the last time he felt the warmth of the sun, seven long years ago. A summer training camp, a fifteen year old Wei Ying, glorious in his beauty, skill, intelligence, confidence. The shadow of Lan Zhan’s sixteen year old self, shy around anyone other than his best friend, burning with the fire of a first crush. It’s frightening how fast life can blow up, hurtling you outside your orbit, stealing everything you treasure.
Sun setting, blending with the trees near the lake, Wei Ying was making his confession, his final words, “Lan Zhan, you are so beautiful, inside and out. How can I not want you? Love you? My best friend, my favorite person.” Overflowing with love, leaning in for a first kiss, the last thing Lan Zhan expected was for Wei Ying to spin him around. He must have caught sight of the arrow, instinctively placing his body between danger and the boy he loved.
After that, his memories are a blur, blood, disbelief, Wei Ying struggling to speak, failing. By the time there’s an ambulance, Wei Ying was delirious, now he knows the culprit was poison intended for him. Begging to be taken to the hospital, denied, told to wait, his heart and mind frozen with fear. Hours became days, his family doctor prescribed a medicinal tea to numb his pain, to help him sleep. Brother breaking the news, Wei Ying had disappeared, wandered off, eventually assumed dead from his injuries.
Lost in a sea of grief, guilt, broken-hearted, Lan Zhan packed up his life and isolated himself at a new school, then university. Returning home aloof and withdrawn, following his family’s direction without question, relying on duty to define his life. Until the day he died.
A sixteen year old teenager on the cusp of discovering life is waking inside his twenty-three year old mind. Wen Ning said Wei Ying is alive, the implied message that at some point he will see him. Lan Zhan refuses to examine the issue of his family at present, he owes himself and Wei Ying one hundred percent of his time and attention.
Lunch is different, Wen Yuan joins them for the first time, babbling about the adventures of the knights who live at the castle they continue to rebuild on the beach. Lan Zhan adores this child, his dimpled smile and eager mind. Wen Ning sporadically glances at Lan Zhan, as if he’s trying to determine his state of being. The roar of a helicopter approaching the front lawn interrupts their meal, stealing Lan Zhan’s breath and inciting Wen Yuan into a joyful clapping session. Without permission, Lan Zhan makes his way towards the noise, hope whispering through him like a meandering stream. He freezes on the veranda, struggling to remember to breathe, leaning on a cool marble column.
The door flies open, tiny legs scramble past him, hopping down stairs, galloping towards the lone figure left behind by the helicopter. Joyful screams float on the air as the whir of the propeller fades, “Baba! Baba!”
Wen Ning patiently traces the steps of his nephew, smiling as the man tosses the child in the air, attacking him with kisses, spinning him around incessantly to inspire a whirlwind of giggle from them both. Wen Yuan on his hip, Wen Ning is next to submit to an enthusiastic greeting. Whispered words result in Wen Ning and the child scampering away, the man staring at the veranda.
Drawn out of the shadows, into the light, tears flowing freely, his bright amber eyes hungrily devour every detail of Wei Ying as his steps quicken. Sun shining, waves crashing on the shore, a salty breeze drying mutual tears, they meet somewhere in the middle.
Stormy grey eyes swim in his warm golden gaze, powerful emotions culminate in two words erupting forth, “Wei Ying!”
Arms lifting, enfolding, tightening, breath buried in his neck, words soaked in love absorbing into his pale skin, a sigh, “Lan Zhan!”
Timeless, priceless, willing statues they wallow in their reunion, waging war against disbelief and fear this treasure will also be stolen from them. In time, it’s Wei Ying who steps back, hands clasping Lan Zhan’s, smile radiating enough energy to power the planet. Seemingly overcome by the entirety of Lan Zhan, he carefully presses his forehead into Lan Zhan’s, regulating his breath until they both inhale deeply in sinc.
Words find their way to freedom, light and playful, “You owe me a kiss,” joined hand squeeze with familiarity, “but family time first, once our son sleeps, we will bury the past, so we can exist in the here and now.” Ensnaring him with a firm arm around his waist, he leads Lan Zhan into the house.
Lan Zhan’s coherent thought ends with the phrase, our son - family. Trusting Wei Ying to guide him, his heart begins to thaw under the simmering flame of love roaring to life, resurrected to purify his soul of the damage inflicted by fate and family.
Light laughter rolls over his skin like gentle waves, cleansing, Wei Ying pulls him closer, “Who would have guessed our first date would be building sandcastles with our son?”
The afternoon slides into evening, a dream within a dream, in his youthful innocence, Wen Yuan easily adapts a new father, immersing himself in constructing a castle with both his parents.
Being called A-Die enthralls Lan Zhan, this new family captivates him, spellbound he pledges to forever fight for this new world. Wen Yuan’s peals of laughter blend with Wei Ying’s, as their son grasps to their hands, swinging above the waves with glee.
The sun is witness to the stolen smoldering glances, carefully orchestrated caresses and hushed endearments, a welcome tension brewing beneath the idyllic family memory. A first memory, fueled by the promise of brighter days, bliss.
Wen Ning and Granny join them for a lazy leisurely meal on the veranda, exquisite exhaustion welcoming a silent feast. The cast of the scene content to shut out the rest of the world, sinking into the luxury of the moment.
Working mindlessly as a team, years of grief and anguish are vanquished by years of friendship and love. Bath time turns into a bubble battle, Wei Ying the clear victor, an experienced warrior amongst the rubber duckies. Bedtime brings stories rendered in lively voices, growls and howls to entertain them all. Kisses, hugs, assurances of adventures to come, conclude in a softly snoring son, surrounded by stuffed protectors to protect him in the dark.
As the moon rises to light their way along the path to the privacy of the bungalow, the mood shifts. Nervous excitement, inevitable insecurities, long denied cravings begin to stir. Their clasped hands grow warmer, their awareness of one another intensifies. Without warning, Wei Ying steers their steps towards the shore.
“Time to bury the past, let’s not carry old baggage with us on our new journey.” Falling to sprawl in the sand, gently situating Lan Zhan in front of him, arms enfolding him from behind, chin resting on his shoulder. Minutes pass, time for heartbeats to slow, minds to quietly refocus.
With words free of rage, Wei Ying reveals his story, outlining his fate from that night onward. Saved by Wen Ning from scavengers, healed by Granny Wen’s traditional remedies, eventually adopted into their small family by Wen Qing after reciting his short life history. Starting college early, graduating young, recruited as an agent to work under the guidance of Wen Qing, at an unnamed agency she directs. Returning the gift of life by saving Wen Yuan and Wen Ning from their uncle, concealing his new family from their enemies.
Nuzzling into the space where Lan Zhan’s neck meets his shoulder, Wei Ying sighs, pauses, resumes, “I lost track of you during our college years, but once you rejoined your family, I watched and waited. The vultures on the task force grew hungry for the kill, so I negotiated. Huaisang’s assistance in exchange for Mingjue’s life and your immunity, death being the best bet for your safety.”
Adjusting their position to stare deeply into Lan Zhan’s heart-filled eyes, Wei Ying bares his soul, “I’m sorry I couldn’t be here to explain. I’m sorry the truths exposed you to pain and betrayal. I’m sorry I couldn’t gain your consent before killing you.” Planting a series of kisses along the line of his jaw, the timber of his voice deepens, “I’m not sorry the guilty will be punished. I’ll never apologize for any action that contributed to making you mine again, secure in my arms.” Stretching to tenderly kiss Lan Zhan’s cheeks, eyelids, the tip of his nose, he whispers his desire. “I promise to protect our family first, our son. I promise to include our siblings, all of them, the Jiangs, the Wens, in time, Lan Huan on your terms. I even promise to practice self preservation, part of my deal is my resignation. This island is part of a federal protection program, after the trial we will move on, we can live wherever you wish. I hate that we lost seven years, but even if I could magically alter the past, I wouldn’t. Despite the pain, the detour saved lives, the Wens, you. So, we end that chapter in order to write a new one, same book with a plot twist.”
Wei Ying’s words bounce around in Lan Zhan’s brain, one by one he examines them, dissects them, accepts them. Rebuilding the context of his comprehension, his memories, up to this second. Content, he intentionally packs them away in a locked chest he will store in the recesses of his mind.
Peacefully he reconnects with expectations of that night seven years ago, Wei Ying’s confession complete, his turn approaching after a first kiss. Registering the chill of the night air, the endless movement of water, Wei Ying’s heartbeat pulsing beneath his hand. Stitching his sixteen year old self to this scenario, bridging over the lost years frozen within himself, Lan Zhan extends a hand towards his future.
Strong elegant fingers frame Wei Ying’s face, words full of strength and conviction, Lan Zhan comforts, “You are my family, now and forever, along with our son. Where we live, what we do, will fall into place, you are all I need. No apologies or gratitude, only love between us. How can I not love my best friend, bright beauty with passion and intelligence, you make me whole. What comes next is obvious, beyond an owed kiss, seven years ago you offered your love. Now you must take responsibility for my fragile heart.”
Eyes widening, hands tightening, inhaling sharply, Wei Ying wastes no time in replying, “Yes! Of course, you are so wise, I absolutely must take responsibility. Lan Zhan, love of my life, my hope, my heart, will you do me the eternal honor of being my husband?”
Warmth permeates Lan Zhan’s entire being, moonlight magically reflecting in the depths of his golden gaze, diving into the silvery pools of Wei Ying’s stare. A whispered yes, an echo of an infinite love and bond saturates his sigh as he claims his first kiss, his breath mingling with Wei Ying’s gasp. The fruit of a first love, young love, an eager press of lips, allowing new sensations to ignite a new energy between them.
Wei Ying’s shivering inspires Lan Zhan to lift him into his arms, smiling at his startled squeal of delight, arms locking around his neck. Nibbling kisses along his neck line as strong arms carry him to the bungalow, to bed. Without reluctance, free from hesitance, they undress one another before becoming entangled on the satiny white sheets.
Seven years committed to their connection, hiding behind walls of bitter grief, leaves them both untouched, yearning to discover this new intimacy together. Wei Ying retrieves items from the night stand, a rosy blush creeping over his features. Ears red, lips swollen, Lan Zhan enfolds his fiance in his arms, attacking the flesh of his neck, hungry and demanding.
Sunrise signals a turn in their path, secrets gained in the dark of the night. Touch uncovering sensitive spots, pleasure pointing out personal preferences, honest revelations widening their understanding of intimacy. Sore muscles, marked skin and tender flesh testify to their all consuming love.
Hunger forces Wei Ying from his blanket cocoon, trading one source of warmth for heat of Lan Zhan’s naked body, latching on like a sea creature. His voice raspy from hours of pleading and praising, “Morning, baobei, I want to start everyday this way, pretty please.”
Capturing Wei Ying with his limbs, feeding on his lips, Lan Zhan smiles dangerously, “Everynight and everyday, mark your words, Wei Ying.” To seal the deal, Lan Zhan demonstrates exactly what he expects, delaying their meal by a few more hours.
Groaning and grinning, Wei Ying declares, “Feed me food, beast, if you desire your poor husband to survive!”
Free from the weight they have carried for far too long, they indulge in being ridiculous. Wrestling, chasing, tickling, ending with a giggling Wei Ying being tossed into the shower, where his lover quickly distracts him.
Radiating exuberant happiness, they invade the kitchen to surprise Wen Yuan during lunch. Lan Zhan visits with their son, while Wen Ning confers with Wei Ying, expression serious, handing him a phone.
Brow furrowed, Wei Ying moves to wrap his arm reassuringly around Lan Zhan, fluffing his son’s hair with affection. Wen Qing’s voice replaces the ringing, a murmur to the ears of his audience, he listens carefully before outlining his plan. Wen Ning and Lan Zhan pay attention to the details, without comment, neither astonished by the conversation. Shutting off the phone, the day resumes much as the one before, sun, fun, and laughter.
Much later, after Wen Yuan is frolicing in his dreams and the island is at rest, Wei Ying consults Lan Zhan, smiling as he affirms his approval of his fiance’s intentions. Simple kisses soon evolve to an intricate display of their affections, consuming the majority of their night, the alarms jolting them awake. Wonderfully weary, they rely on a hot shower to invigorate their spirits, in preparation of an important day.
For a third time, a helicopter delivers souls to the island, seeking solace and healing. Wen Yuan perches curiously in Lan Zhan’s arm, while Wei Ying tucks himself under his other arm, the portrait of a precious family. Wen Ning lingers beside them, eyes tracking the progress of the transport with eager eyes.
Five figures step down, luggage in hand, evading the noise of the departing helicopter. Breaking away from the group, a body slams into Wei Ying, weeping, clinging, vibrating with a storm of emotions. Gripping Lan Zhan with one hand, Wei Ying’s other arm cradles his sister close, losing himself in her until the raging subsides. Both siblings beckon Jiang Cheng to merge his angry frustration with their own energy, Wei Ying refusing to release his fiance.
Wen Ning engulfs his own sister, collecting Wen Yuan to complete their group hug. Jin Zixuan and Xiao Xingchen observe in silence, biding their time, thankful.
A command to mobilize originates with Wen Yuan, demanding to be put down, hurtling his wiggly body at his fathers, chiming, “Baba! A-Die! Is it time yet to get married?!”
Laughter trumps tension, words can wait, luggage and humans traverse the lawn, sorted by Wen Ning into guest rooms. Congregating in the living room while Wen Yuan helps Wen Ning prepare lunch, Wei Ying attempts to cement the structure of his family. Perfectly delighted to call Lan Zhan’s lap home, Wei Ying spins the ring Lan Zhan placed on his finger immediately after Wen Qing delivered them.
Pondering Wen Qing’s call from the day before, he attempts to determine the most effective strategy for this conversation. Apparently, Jiang Yanli’s inability to cope with her world imploding prompted Wen Qing to suggest altering their course a bit. Jin Zixuan blindly agreed to any plan if it assured his fiance’s health, and that of their unborn child, the primary motivation for this visit. Never one to miss an opportunity, Wei Ying asked Wen Qing to work her magic so that they might have a double wedding ceremony.
Focusing on family, Wei Ying strives for an uplifting tone, relying on their love for him, “Wow! How lucky am I to finally have my whole family in one room! Before we have the ceremonies and celebrate, I’d like to make official introductions.” Ignoring his brother’s eye roll and Wen Qing’s snort, he dives in with enthusiasm, calling for his son, pulling him into his arms so they both rest in Lan Zhan’s arms. “Wen Yuan, it’s time you meet most of your family. Nodding to his Jiang siblings, “This grumpy monkey is your uncle, Jiang Cheng, he’s like a melon, tough on the outside but squishy on the inside. Next to him, is your auntie, Yanli, who is going to be mommy to your cousin, Jin Ling. His daddy is the peacock behind her, your uncle Jin Zixuan. They are getting married today, too.”
Fierce concentration scrunching his adorable face, Wen Yuan interjects, “Just like Baba and A-Die, right! Two weddings today, that’s what you said, weddings mean cake!!!”
Chuckles echo around the room, lifting the atmosphere, as Wei Ying continues, “Exactly! Of course you are so smart since Lan Zhan is your A-Die!” Planting kisses on Lan Zhan’s startled lips, Wei Ying whispers his love, disregarding his brothers whining and sisters crooning.
Turning to stare intently at his Jiang siblings, his mood conveys a bit more seriousness, “Yanli and A-Cheng, you too Jin Zixuan, I hope you can accept the Wens as your family too, our elders might be misguided, but I refuse to let anyone poison my family again. We are all blameless, we don’t deserve to be punished further. It’s taken years for me to internalize that truth, by the way.” Glimpsing at Lan Zhan for support, he emphasizes, “Wen Qing is our sister, just as Wen Ning is our baby brother, all of you are aunts and uncles to our son.”
The entire plot fascinates Xiao Xingchen, noting each detail of the day to relay the tale to his husband later. When Wen Qing asked him to conduct the wedding ceremonies for individuals in hiding and embroiled in a current investigation, he was hesitant. The concern for an unborn child persuaded him, leaving Song Lan to oversee the Jiangs’ business affairs while he arranged a cover for spiriting away with the necessary souls. He’s no stranger to the concept of found families of choice, a tapestry created by weaving lives together intentionally, authentically.
After a chorus of supportive sentiment, everyone eager to embrace a more positive version of their future, love for his husband compels Wei Ying to insert a final comment, “Full transparency, with time and therapy, it’s my hope that Lan Huan will take his place in our family, as brother and uncle. Obviously, that’s a more complicated discussion for another day.” As Lan Zhan’s arm draws him closer, Wei Ying soothingly caresses his hand.
Sensing no response is required, the group disperse to prepare to exchange vows. Time is a precious commodity, running out with the setting of the sun, reality reclaiming his loved ones.
Late into the night, cuddling against his husband, Wei Ying admires the photos Wen Ning has sent them. Somehow, Wen Qing found traditional red wedding robes for Jiang Yanli, Wei Ying and Lan Zhan. Jin Zixuan favors his tailored suits, along with the rest of the guests. The weather was ideal, a clear blue sky looming over a sparkling blue horizon, robes blowing in a soft breeze. Yanli and Xingchen braided everyone’s hair, adorning them with ornate clips. Wen Yuan the center of the celebration, dancing gleefully after dinner, encouraging his aunts and uncles to swirl him high in the air. The pictures feature faces glowing with love, energy glittering in their eyes, images of life captured in its most dazzling brilliant form, love and family.
Saying goodbye was bittersweet, laced with the knowledge that their misery is temporary. It’s the mission of the youth to build a better tomorrow, today they took the first steps on this journey, together. Contact will be scarce until the trials conclude, but the others find peace in knowing Wei Ying and his family are safely ensconced on the island.
Lan Zhan reflects on waking in the bungalow, dazed and confused, less than two weeks ago. Now his husband and best friend lies nestled in his arms, full of life and love, their son tucked lovingly in with his new memories of a large caring family. Even his sixteen year old self could not have imagined he’d be allowed such a rich full life. Kissing Wei Ying, he shares his thoughts, “Love you. Back where we belong, together, always. We’ve come full circle, daring to dream of true love, to paint a picture of a life as one.”
Shifting his position to gain access to his husband’s beautiful face, Wei Ying’s smile is blinding, “I like that, full circle, collecting family along the way, finding our way back to each other. I love you, Lan Zhan, always.”