(Y/n) Can’t Communicate! [Genshin Impact X Mute!reader]

Kisses in the Morning

Kamisato Ayato x Gn!Reader

Synopsis: Ayato wants to kiss reader but they do it before him

What's in the web: Fluff, established relationship

A/n: I'm starting my Ayato grind. Reblogs are appreciated!

The brightness of the sun peeked through the slits of the curtain, painting the walls in a warm color. Shifting inside the blankets, Ayato begrudgingly opened his eyes, unprepared for the day. It pained him to wake up every day. Yet, that is how he had to live his life. That is when he looked over to you.

The blanket adorned your figure perfectly as you shifted ever so slightly, a light blush on your cheeks and a peaceful look on your face.

To be honest, he wanted to stay like this, asleep and forever with you. Slight tightness in his chest as he felt scared if he ever lost you. The thought of you leaving killed him. All those good memories he had with you, all those bumps in your relationship, and all those stressful times with you. It all left a smile on his face and a giddy feeling in his chest.

He was in love with you. As he lay there in silence, a thought poked at his brain. What if he woke you up with a kiss?

He smirked, picturing the embarrassed face you'll make for him. He's always adored the blushing mess you were after his teasing, yet he couldn't do it. Even after leaning into you -leaving centimeters of space- he grew embarrassed.

He wasn't one to do such cliche and overly-romantic things so, of course, this would embarrass him. At least, this is what he thinks is cliche. He leans in once more, only to hesitate. A million thoughts ran through his head. What if you woke up and saw him? What if you rejected the kiss? What if you didn't wake up?

Suddenly, watching as your eyes opened and stared at him. A sigh left your lips, almost a disappointed one.

"Well, if you won't do it, I will."

Soft lips captured him as you leaned into him. A light blush was present on his face as you pulled away from him. His face filled with shock as you got up from the futon.

"I'll go help Thoma with breakfast; prepare yourself as you have a meeting in an hour." You started as you walked out of your shared room, leaving the man in a shocked yet drunken state. He sat up and stared at the door as a small smile grew onto his lips.

"You're too much, (Y/n)."

8 from fluff for Tamaki? 🥺💕

amajiki tamaki x reader

“Us… I like the sound of that.”

warnings: fluff

a/n: tamaki more like dont make me

~~~

“Tamaki-kun!” You hiss as you motion for him to come over to you.

Keep reading

✫ 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐎𝐘𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐈𝐑 𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 ✫ — [part 1]

𝐟𝐭.;; albedo, childe, diluc, xiao, and scaramouche

[part two is here]

𝐀𝐋𝐁𝐄𝐃𝐎;; “Hm…? You wish to know more about [Name]? Well, I suppose I might be of assistance. [Name] is an intriguing individual, I’ll give them that. Just when I think I’ve finally got them pinned down, they manage to evade me yet again. But surprisingly, I think I actually find that to be…enjoyable? How odd…Ah, my apologies. Where were we again?”

𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐃𝐄;; “Oh-? You’re asking me about [Name]? Why? Are you interested in them, Traveller? Haha, there’s no shame if you are, no need to be shy comrade! Oh…you aren’t? That’s a relief…hm? I didn’t say anything. It must be your imagination!”

𝐃𝐈𝐋𝐔𝐂;; “[Name]…? They’re okay, i suppose. As far as customers go, they don’t really frequent the tavern, but when they do, they always manage to pay without issue. In my books, that would make them a relatively decent person. And…I find that I quite enjoy the time spent between us, regardless of how short it is…huh? My face looks…red? You’re probably imagining it, traveller.”

𝐗𝐈𝐀𝐎;; “You want to know about [Name]? Tch, stupid mortal. You shouldn’t call out my name for tedious things like this…ugh…I suppose I could indulge you. [Name] is…strange, to put it bluntly. I tell them time and time again to not make me Almond Tofu, and yet, it seems like their hearing has failed them. I also think they’re adding too much sugar to it, because whenever I eat it, there’s this weird, tingly feeling in my chest, and my face gets embarrassingly warm. They should really cut down on the sugar..”

𝐒𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐔𝐂𝐇𝐄;; “Hah? [Name]? Tsk, you’ve got a lot of nerve, don’t you Traveller? I can see that look in your eye, and quite frankly, it’s pissing me off. Let’s get one thing straight. [Name] is mine, so back off, got it? They’d never look twice at someone like you, so get that delusion out of your head. I’m the only one who [Name] likes, not you.”

sing me melodies.

a/n: this was two similar requests combined together hehe and i loved writing it sm. it's one of my favorite requests, honestly!! <3

summary: s/o who sings to tell stories/singer! s/o who sings for the boys when they’re stressed/confesses to them with a love song.

characters: albedo, scaramouche, xiao, zhongli.

warnings: fluff, angst, gender-neutral reader!

word count: 1.3k

"as venti once said; stories are best told through beautiful songs!"

albedo: albedo enjoys your songs incredibly. he enjoys the love stories the most! but he doesn't mind hearing depressing stories; he just has a clear preference!! albedo appreciates those stories both fact and fiction; the stories that touch close to home are those based on your personal experiences, and he can only stare in awe as you sing of love, your dreams, heartbreak, or sadness. sing him sweet melodies of your relationship and how you're so happy together, and he's so whipped!

scaramouche: he may pretend like he's not interested, but he actually is. proof? well, he asks questions afterward! "why would they do such a thing? how stupid..." even if he does berate the story a bit. his favorite songs are those he can relate to, otherwise, he may be bored. sing him songs of battle, feeling torn between two conflicting ideals, kings and queens; royalty. he'll listen then. scaramouche likes when you praise him in your songs, so please do that.

xiao: he appreciates them so much! naturally, he's drawn to the darker stories. those of a couple who can not be, or someone losing something or someone so close to them they can't function properly, and the tragedies of life and death. he's not sure why he enjoys those stories, probably because he prefers realism, he despises sugarcoating with a passion! the love stories you share are probably your personal experiences with him, and he cannot lie, he does enjoy those quite a bit! <3

zhongli: he's a stickler for songs of the past! old tunes that remind him of the olden days, trying times where he and his people were able to pull through. he finds great pleasure in those kinds of stories told through song! of course, the triumphs should be remembered, and singing those stories of war, forbidden love, etc in the past is right up his alley. he also likes the realisticness of it all! but that doesn't mean he hates the fictional side, no. sing him words of myths, fairytales, he loves it all as long as it's your velvety voice. but, always, swimming in the nostalgia will always be his favorite type of song you sing for him.

"i'm a tad bit stressed, so i'm just going to sing alright? cool."

albedo: he doesn't mind at all! if singing is your way of releasing your worries, fear, and major stress factors in your life, go for it. he has his own form of outlet and ways to release stress, and this is yours! when you start randomly singing your worries and anxieties, you aren't doing it in hopes he'd fix all your problems, but he always offers a word of advice after, comfortably giving you the space to ask for help or not.

scaramouche: not cool. he's far too busy to sit here and listen to you sing about your worries, although he does care. he would snap at you first, but then he'd listen and try his best to ease your worries. when i say "best" i mean it, he does try. but he's not the most comforting guy, hence words that sounded like reassurances in his head turned into an annoyed tone when he actually said it aloud. if you're together, you know by now not to get offended by his harshness, because sometimes he truly does mean well and isn't trying to be rude. <3

xiao: he's heard every cause of stress in the books, so when he hears you ask him if it's okay to basically rant, he just nods and continues listening. xiao's heard all of the despair, sadness, frustrations, and anger known to man trust me. he's helped people too, so what kind of lover would be if he didn't offer his assistance to you? like scaramouche, his words of encouragement or reassurance come out a bit rougher than preferred, but unlike scaramouche, his walls do come down and he lets softer things be said; "i don't know why you've held this in for so long... but i will do everything in my power to assist you with these feelings."

zhongli: all ears! he even offers some helpful advice, always. his main goal is to listen to your songs, access the situation, analyze possible outcomes of solutions, and then help you reach that solution! you never wanted him to go out of his way over things little or big, but he does no matter the issue, small or big <3 he handles what you sing with the utmost care, trust me. and when he listens to your songs, especially those of confessions of stress, he will always look you in your eyes to let you know he's listening intently and will do whatever it takes to help you feel reassurance.

"confession through a song? sure why not!"

albedo: doesn't realize it's a confession... he mistakes your confession for a love story either fact or fiction, but not you admitting your love to him. he's probably caught up in the song if there seem to be overtly affectionate love interests, not realizing it's you who has those feelings for him and are admitting it... at the end of the day, the moral of the story is, you've gotta outright tell him!! say, "albedo, i have a crush on you!" or "did you not catch my song as a confession?" don't be scared, he totally has feelings for you too, he just needs to be told outright. afterward? he's very straightforward with his feelings too and will openly admit his love for you! <3

scaramouche: he may not notice it's a confession at first, but then when he processes what's being said, oh boy! beat red in the ears. he's sooo lucky his hair covers his ears or else, more embarrassment the gods are totally willing to spare! he's going to do one of two things; avoid this as long as he can, and pretend he never heard you express your feelings to him through song OR flat out call you out, using words such as, "idiot" and "stupid" or 'brat" claiming you've gotta be joking. but you're not... if he takes this route, he's definitely not rejecting you, no, he's just flat out making fun and teasing you because he can't possibly admit his true feelings, oh not the scaramouche!!

xiao: xiao isn't dumb, he understands what the "yearning" and "love" you mention are in your song, but he doesn't act on it at first and just continues listening to you sing. it's much easier to ignore the meaning of the words and enjoy the melodic sounds of your voice than confront this and his own feelings. so he does that for as long as he can. until he can't sleep... and he starts thinking of your sweet words while he's supposed to be sleeping. he won't admit he has feelings with words, but one way you can be sure is when he starts allowing you to call him alatus! after you ask zhongli about the meaning, plus why he's suddenly so determined you call him that, zhongli says he's never heard of anyone allowed to call xiao that, not even himself; meaning, the wise man has come to the conclusion xiao returns your feelings. which is true!

zhongli: he knows due to his wisdom and incredible intuition, and he's so flattered! he's always felt the same way, so to have you bravely admit your feelings to him through singing, it's perfect! he never saw you admitting how you felt, ever, mainly because after he told you his story and who exactly he was, he thought you wouldn't try because well... if you ever got together, he would long surpass you. growing attached was definitely not suitable if you wanted to be together for the rest of your life. though, after he confronts you about these feelings and admits he also feels the same way, he promises you he will figure out a way for you two to be together! whether he has to entirely shorten his lifespan and abandoned his status now as an adeptus, or seek help from celestia, or even baal, god of eternity; he will figure it out, he promises you wholeheartedly! <3

8.23.21, rayofsunas

Touches

Featuring: Xiao, Albedo, Gorou, Aether, Scaramouche, Kazuha x GN!Reader (separate)

Content Warning: none, v fluffy

How is physical affection with them?

Authors Note: I realize that this is similar to my other post, “Softly”, think of this as an “add on” but with more characters.

𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.

Xiao’s a bit reluctant, seeing himself as a weapon, simple touches are foreign to him. But when you cup his cheeks, or press your lips to his forehead, or even rub your thumb against his bloodstained knuckles- it is hard to resist, especially yours.

So he reaches out, careful to not accidentally scare you or worse- hurt you. He lets himself rest against your body, hiding his face in your neck. He finds himself longing for your kisses, silently asking you by pressing his own against your lips. He found that his hands hold more than just the blood of his enemies, but your heart as well. He now understands why mortals- lovers- cannot get enough of each other.

-

Albedo had been stuck in thought, only one occupying his mind. He had wondered why he only thought of you: your hands holding onto his when excited, or when you lean your head against his shoulder when you feel tiredness. Not only that, but why he had a sudden craving for it.

It started with subtle touches: fingers tracing the features of your face, his own hands guiding yours when helping him with experiments, small forehead kisses when greeting you. However, he felt as if it wasn’t enough. It was only when you were around that he felt his thoughts calm, when he was able to hold you, keeping him grounded.

-

General Gorou felt appreciated when you didn’t ask about touching his ears and tail, only giving glances every once in a while. Though it soon turned into worry; did you not like those features about him, or did you know about his apprehensiveness due to his past encounters with nosy soldiers?

Those worries went away very soon after when you did start asking, not just to pet them but how it felt to have them. It made him happy that you had a genuine curiosity towards it, giving you full permission to touch them when in private with him. Even then, he felt the need to sometimes shove his face into yours, needing to have your fingers brush out the knots accumulated in his fur, or so he said.

-

Aether was happy that you were just as touchy as he was. He was happy that you let him hold your hand when walking, giving you light kisses on your cheeks when he said his ‘good mornings’ and ‘good nights’, hold you tight against him when he felt as if the whole world was against him.

He found you to be his anchor, his rock, the one person whom he felt comfortable enough to let them hold him the same way he would a lover. The way you hold him to you, letting your fingers weave through his hair and whispering quietly to him, it almost was surreal. He would hide his overwhelming joy in your neck, placing small kisses there as well.

-

Scaramouche, the man who shed tears in his sleep, was only comforted by the one he called his true love. A private man he was, only showing an ounce of attention towards you out of public eye, but would make it obvious to anyone else if need be.

Thumbs drying his tears, bringing his ear to the only other heart he needed, he would hold on to his lover like his life depended on it. He would sometimes question your willingness to be with him, but when you kissed his forehead and didn’t bring up his sleepless tears, he understood that there would be no one else like you. He vowed only to protect you from the cruelty of the world.

-

Kazuha’s touches were as light as his words, they would hold just as much meaning. His haikus and poems would depict the most beautiful of sceneries, however, his lips against your face and his hands holding your own would leave you wondering if they were actually about you.

Drunken nights were a rarity, a light buzz would leave you both to ignore the outside world while you bask in each other’s presence. His head would be placed under yours while his fingers traced random patterns against your soft skin. You, on the other hand, would be fixated on his hair, as soft as his words. Delicate whispers of love surround the space you both share.

𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼𖡼.𖤣𖥧𖡼.

Hi! I was wondering if you could do a headcannon of Aizawa finding out he's dating one of his students (you can chose) bigger sister that also teaches for U.A? Thanks! 💗

AIZAWA FINDING OUT YOU'RE TOKOYAMI'S SIBLING (HCS)

Honestly, it wasn’t even obvious that you were the older sister of Tokoyami.

Because you know... bird head and you not bird head.

There wasn’t a resemblance at all.

Anyways, Aizawa doesn’t pry into your personal life unless it’s a situation of life and death, so, he doesn’t ask about your family and whatnot.

You’ve never told him about them either, so, it wasn’t really that much of an issue to the both of you.

Until suddenly, you brought it up in the middle of dinner.

Hey, Shouta. Do you want to meet my family?”

You just said it so casually, it actually made him stop eating and blink owlishly at you.

His mind immediately went, ‘Who?’

Then it hits him.

oh oH OH

You two were just staring at each other in silence while Aizawa remains taken aback by your question.

But once it all set in, he agrees.

After all, you already met his parents. What harm could it bring, right?

Haha, right.

So, you guys set up a date and he finally meets the family.

When you guys arrive at the place, Fumikage immediately starts choking on a marshmellow.

How do you even choke on a marshmallow? (I choked on one. Not a good experience.)

Fumikage’s mind went like, “What a mad banquet of darkness.”

"I’m dating my student’s sister?” Yes, Aizawa. You are. Aizawa’s fucking his sister too but Fumikage doesn’t need to know that.

Anyways, there’s this thick awkward blanket between the two of them as you introduced Aizawa to your family. But he still isn’t convinced that Fumikage is your brother.

“Oh! And this is my lil bro! Fumi, this is my boyfriend Aizawa. Aizawa, this is my younger brother, Fumikage.”

"I know.” They both say at the same time which confused you.

"He’s my homeroom teacher.”

"The hardass?!” Fumikage blushed in embarrassment at that, but it was true. Aizawa was indeed a hardass.

"Y-Yes, the hardass.” The way Fumikage replied with such bravery. We stan.

Honestly, you just wanna roll on the ground and laugh right now because never have you seen Fumikage so embarrassed like this.

Eventually, you all moved on from the ‘my sister’s seeing my teacher’ incident and sat down for dinner. Your parents love Aizawa (Fumikage and Dark Shadow will watch Aizawa very carefully, but he approves.) and the dinner ended on a very good note.

"Oh, I gotta go to the restroom for a bit, Shou. Wait for me, ‘kay?”

Cue intense staring contest.

"I don’t care if you’re my teacher or a pro-hero, if you hurt my sister, trust me, I will fuck you up.”

“I won’t hurt her.”

"Good because I have watched enough horror movies to know how to effectively hide a body.”

The tension magically went away as you arrived.

“Bye Fumi! Take care, ok? I love you.” You kissed his birb forehead before waving goodbye, walking away with a slightly traumatized Aizawa.

When you guys got home, Aizawa asked why you don’t look like anyone in your family.t

"Oh, the crow likeness runs in my father’s side. I didn’t inherit those I guess. My mom’s face is practically a shadow but they say I look like her. But I still got the shadow quirk from my parents.” Huh.

When Monday arrived, the students noticed the evident awkward tension in the room.

Good thing they’re not smart enough (and Tokoyami isn’t talkative enough) to figure out it’s from Tokoyami and Aizawa.

Cue Mic’s teasing and a ton of migraines.

What made matters worse (for Aizawa at least) was that soon enough you took up a teaching role in U.A.

Seeing you in a new light, Aizawa admired you even more.

Cue gagging noises from Fumikage as he watches his teacher made goo-goo eyes at you.

You loved teaching and you loved spending time with Aizawa and your brother.

It was a win-win for you but a win-lose for Aizawa and Fumikage.

RIP Aizawa Shouta.

a/n first kiss w genshin boys :) ik i said i was on hiatus but uhhhhhhh Heyyy

warnings/tags in an attempt to make me happy. fluff, includes xiao childe zhongli diluc kaeya

XIAO is confused, but tries his best to kiss you back. to be honest, everyone calls him heartless and cold—but he’s really just confused and blunt LOL. you can imagine him just struggling to not be awkward but the boy just wants to kiss you forever (if it were possible). poor guy just wants to savour the moment and forgets to reciprocate. i feel like he’d be the type to hug you after.

“sorry, i just got caught up in the moment.” he says before pulling you closer again.

CHILDE is a cocky little bastard and makes you pull away to breathe. no, seriously. the man acts like he has no need to breathe or doesn’t want to. you pull away, breathless, cheeks flushed because he’s somehow really good at this?? he tells you he’s a natural at it, and you’re not convinced. he would’ve kissed you for hours without stopping if you didn’t pull away 5 seconds in. his smooth words make you feel even more giddy as if the kiss didn’t already make you lightheaded.

“what can i say, i’m just that good.” he shrugs, smiling at you while you try to catch your breath. my, it’s really a sport to kiss this man.

ZHONGLI smiles while you kiss him. you can feel the ends of his lips curl into a smile as yours touch his, and it’s definitely one of the best feelings ever. his lips are probably soft as hell… and he’d probably put his hands on your jaw or something. i don’t know why but i feel like he’s one of the more touchy guys in genshin despite his looks!! he’d definitely pull you close and take your breath away (not in a cocky way like the ginger….,,).

“i really like this,” he says softly when he pulls away for a second, and he smiles slightly seeing your flushed cheeks.

DILUC explodes. not literally but he kind of resembles a bomb because his face just turns red. he’s an okay kisser—when you kiss him, he’s really stiff at first but eases into your touch. poor man was trying to do his paperwork, but it’s not like he doesn’t mind you being close to him like this. as urgent as his “you’re distracting me” and “not now”s sound, he would really choose you over paperwork (or anything really) anyday. when you pull away, his face is almost as red as his hair—but before long, your lips are against his again.

“i can always do my work later. for you, it can wait,” diluc says, putting his pen down.

KAEYA is another smooth cocky bastard!!!!!! do not believe this man when he says he is a bad kisser. he is by all means not!!!! he’s already got a charming and smooth personality, just imagine his kisses. you’d already expect him to have you weak in the knees as soon as his lips met yours, and you were not surprised when that was exactly what happened. he’ll probably say something like “you didn’t like it” after you pull away knowing you’ll go red and say you did….

“really? was that a good first impression?” kaeya smiles at you, knowing he’s got you all lightheaded because of him. please just put him in a cell already

this isn’t how i usually write but take it or leave it ig!! — 231221

join in on my event <3

zhongli ▪︎ beloved

pairing: zhongli x traveler!(f)reader (in 2nd PoV - "you") or Lumine if you wish

genre/theme(s): angst with happy ending + jealousy, fluffy as fuck, midst-of-a-slow-burn-romance type, mutual pinning, misunderstanding

word count: 5.9k+ (omg sorry didn't really plan for this fic to be THIS LONG)

summary: rex lapis has plenty of time on his hand ever since he stepped down from his former seat as the geo archon. currently as zhongli the mortal, it is not so rare for him to accompany her on her commissions now and then. over the time spent together, the feelings she harbored for the man were no longer as simple as one would hold for a good friend — it took one interesting commission for her to realize that. if only she knew she was not alone in this. — | m.list

a/n: I'm finally back after LONG hiatus. i'm very thankful for this break; my inspiration was as dry as the desert. picking up where I left off, i've decided to release this long overdued fic rotting in my drive. i needed the warm-up hence here is that fic. I decided to give writing in 2nd PoV (You) a try, and I have to say I enjoyed writing this fic in that way! You could pretend the reader to be you (the traveller) or simply Lumine (i mean, Lumine IS the traveler which is YOU - if you play female MC ofc.)

enjoyyyy. i look forward to reading feedback <3 please do me a favor and reblog this too! :)

Canopied by the overhanging trees, golden eyes squinted against the sunlight shining down at them through the leaves, then lowered their gaze.

Back to the soft breathing by his right shoulder where his lips met the crown of your head with an accidental brush at the turn of his head — one that he made no move to pull away from.

The edges of his lips lifted as incoherent words were murmured against him in your slumber.

A surge of wind tugged his eyes up and onto the glistening ocean beyond the green, grassy hill they sat on.

Liyue Harbor was right across, bustling and busy as ever.

Even from the hill across the city, he could hear the hollers of the dock crews and see the locals milling along the wharf. Ships were departing and docking, in and out.

Strong and prospering on its own feet, Liyue Harbor ran like clockwork.

There was nothing more he could do for the city he had built.

His archon days were long over.

Morax, Rex Lapis — he had abandoned these names and every meaning behind them.

No longer the Geo Archon, he was simply Zhongli the mortal now, and truly enjoyed everything about this mundane life.

Strolling leisurely while taking in the sights around the city, listening to stories told at Third-Round Knockout with tea to accompany him, and watching businesses unfold between merchants and their customers in the lively market.

These were the many things he grew fond of as Zhongli, but what he found himself looking forward to the most...was your company.

Whether it was just a mere chat over tea or out on adventures in the wilderness every now and then, your presence seemed to brighten his mortal days even more.

As a gust of wind blew at the hilltop, Zhongli raised a hand, his eyes focused on the lock of your hair blown into your face by the wind.

Only to pause as you stirred.

Fingers on your face dropped back onto his lap as he watched you open your eyes, with a small frown between his brows.

"Sorry, did I wake you?"

You met his apologetic gaze drowsily. "No..." A yawn escaped your mouth.

Your head shifted against his chest. Since when were tree trunks this comfortable to lean on?

You moved your gaze away from his with groggy blinks—

Then jolted upright with a sharp gasp, flinching away from him like you were scalded.

Flustered blush colored your cheeks. How did you end up sleeping on Zhongli?

Your eyes sprang wide.

—oh no!

What if you snored? Or worse, drooled?

Your hand flew to your lips to check, horrified at the absurdity of that thought; it was ghastly to even think about salivating all over a former archon.

Thankfully there was none, you dropped your hand back to your lap as relief left you.

"My apologies," Zhongli's voice turned your head. "I didn't think you would be uncomfortable being this close to me."

There was a strange expression on his face, "I just thought you would sleep better against me than this tree." — a faint smile that made him look somewhat...disappointed.

You broke into a smile, laughing. "No no, I was just surprised," Another yawn was stifled, "Thank you, Zhongli, I had a really good nap."

Your eyes darted to the trees behind theirs, in time to see distant figures among them, moving in their direction.

"...Looks like they're here." You turned your head to watch Zhongli climb to his feet. "It still puzzles me why they made such a request; I'm afterall just an ordinary funeral parlor consultant."

You stood as well, brows raised in incredulity at his words but said nothing.

Ordinary? Nothing about him was ordinary.

Even as a mortal, he makes heads turn.

Almost every single woman they met on your commissions seemed to be enamored with him. It was hard to tell whether he was ignoring their obvious advances or was simply oblivious to the attention he got.

You couldn't blame them though.

Zhongli was a gentleman known for his vast knowledge and talents. His speech and mannerism were sophisticated enough to charm anyone on the streets albeit not intentional, or at least you thought so. Even as a close friend, you weren't immune.

He was like...a natural ladies' man, so much so that you often felt like a third wheel whenever they traveled the lands with female clients.

And from these experiences, it had not been pleasant being on the receiving ends of suspicious glares and calculated stares despite being introduced by the man himself as a mere good friend.

A sigh left you as you stepped forward with Zhongli, silently hoping for none of those this time.

Grass and dirt crunched under its wooden wheels as the horse carriage rolled towards them.

There were intricate signs of wealth all over the vehicle.

The roof of the carriage had an edge rimmed with gold and carved dragons in the polished wood. Guarded by the back of the horseman, the carriage hid its occupant away from the world behind its sturdy wooden doors.

The horseman himself wore a short robe of black and blue, armed with a metal plate across his chest and a sword on his back.

Unmistakably, this whole picture was a telltale sign of their client — a daughter of a rich man; whoever this Lady Wen was.

Even the stallions pulling it wore expensive cloths marked with a symbol around their necks.

In an anticipating silence, they watched as the carriage finally slowed to a stop.

The man at the front hopped off the carriage with ease, robes fluttering with his movements as the grassy ground met his feet with a rustle.

You two watched him begin to move, fully expecting him to pull open the door for his passenger to step out.

But instead, he started walking towards you two, almost eagerly, with his hand raised and extended before him. When he came closer, you noticed he was a young man with dark hair long enough to be tied loosely in a semi-ponytail and a face decent enough for ladies to take interest in.

Zhongli was the first to mirror his gesture with legs moving forward and a hand raised to meet the man's, but for it only to fall back to his side when he realized that the man was fixated on something else.

Not on him.

His brows rose.

…but on you.

"You must be her," with admiration on his face, and hand around yours. "...that woman."

Did he mistake me for Zhongli…? He does know that Zhongli is a man right —

Shock elicited a surprised gasp out from you when he suddenly brought his lips down to the back of your hand in a greeting kiss.

You could only stare back at the stranger with wide, blinking eyes, unsure what to do.

Next to you, Zhongli’s golden eyes narrowed as a feigned cough ensued from his throat.

You jolted at the same time with the man. "Oh right! How can I forget my manners?" he released your hand, eyes darting briefly over to Zhongli.

"Forgot your manners, indeed." You thought you heard Zhongli mutter under his breath,

"I'm Young Master Wen." the man introduced, “You may call me Jun instead.” as he returned his attention, hopeful gaze back to you under Zhongli’s furrowed scrutiny, just as you were bringing your offended hand behind your back, afraid he would kiss it again.

You wiped your hand hastily against your clothing as subtly as you could, not expecting his next line. "...I've heard of what you've done for both Mondstadt and Liyue — definitely a woman of power and beauty!"

—you coughed, spluttering on choked saliva in your surprise.

You were aware of the many praises about you.

Strong, yes. Cute, yes. Pretty, maybe.

But a woman of beauty? Never.

You could only manage an awkward thank you as Jun finally turned to Zhongli. Thank god, the overly passionate gaze on you was getting a bit too much.

"And you must be Mr. Zhongli!"

"Ah yes, Young Master Wen." Zhongli merely said, shaking his hand.

You looked over at Zhongli in mild surprise.

There was something different about how he greeted the man — almost grudgingly if you were to squint. His usual cordial enthusiasm was lacking.

You swore you saw a dagger-like glint flash across his golden eyes, just as the man turned his head back to you, about to step towards you with the same fascinated look on his face.

Zhongli moved fast so you didn’t realize until you suddenly found yourself blocked by a broad back and peering over Zhongli’s shoulders at Jun instead.

“Enough, Young Master Wen, I’m sure she understands quite clearly that you admire her.” Zhongli intervened, feeling the coil of frustration in his chest tightened. “—now, where’s this Lady Wen who seeks me? Your sister, I assume, going by your title?”

You felt the tension in your shoulders leave with your silent sigh when Jun finally pulled his gaze off you. Weirdo.

“Oh, my sister—”

“It's been a long time since we met, Zhongli."

All eyes swiveled to the carriage to watch a lady emerge from its confine.

So this was Lady Wen, your eyes widened.

So she was the one who asked for Zhongli in the commission letter Katheryne passed to you?

Though siblings, the Lady Wen standing in person before you was not what you had expected. Apart from her wealth, her face also sets her apart from other women; for she bore a face men would compare to a goddess.

Mesmerized by the flowery grace and gentle sweet smile of the approaching woman, you knew you were right to doubt the compliment the man sang of you.

You? A woman of beauty? No way.

It was Lady Wen.

So what did this beautiful lady want with Zhongli? You wondered glancing between the man standing before you and the woman.

Then you caught the quiet admiring gaze on Zhongli, and a faint sign of recognition on the said man’s face. “—Wen Rong.” You heard him utter.

“It's been a long time since we met, Zhongli." Her greetings echoed back in your memory, then it clicked.

Ah, you understood now.

Night fell over like a curtain of darkness, just as the carriage arrived at a distance five hours away from your destination.

Shadows lurked in every corner of the campfires, behind the trees and the bushes.

The fire crinkled and sizzled in the soft breeze, dancing lightly on the firewood stacked atop of each other. Over the warm light it emitted, you could hear their laughter.

Hers and his.

Despite not seeing each other in years, their friendship rekindled almost instantly.

You sneaked a glance at them, to where you previously sat before you realized you were too dumb to understand what they were saying.

You weren’t sure what they were chatting about, but you knew they were subjects Zhongli loved to share with you when you two hung out. Most of the time, you would either end up nodding and feigning understanding, change the subject or just zone out completely.

Things were definitely different from the other commissions you two have taken on. You weren't on the receiving end of suspicious glares and calculated stares this time round.

There was no one vying for Zhongli's attention; it wasn't necessary when the female client was his friend and someone like Lady Wen.

Lady Wen was not only the definition of beauty; she was grace and wisdom too, with a soft, friendly personality like a cherry on top.

Every aspect of her seemed to compliment the former archon so well.

This was one of the few rare times you had seen Zhongli so immersed in conversations with someone on a commission. But of course, it was because they met before.

And perhaps, the only commission Zhongli had barely spoken a word to you, or you to him — you didn't see why you should interrupt them.

A bitter sense of helplessness and frustration curled like a tight knot in your chest as you hugged your knees closer to your chest, nails digging into your palms.

...but why does this bother you so much? Zhongli and you were just good friends after all.

As a good friend, shouldn't you be happy for Zhongli if he found someone he could spend his mortal life with?

You were afterall a mere child to him…or at least that was what you felt sitting with these two.

Enough.

You fought, begged the strange twinge inside your heart to stop.

The Wen Mansion was just five more hours away from here, and you will be done with this commission. Why should you care? It was so silly.

For whatever reasons Lady Wen's father wanted to meet Zhongli, it was not your business to care. It was Zhongli’s.

Staring at the fire, your jaw clenched as their laughter reached your ears once more.

Maybe you should go help Jun out?

For a young master, he was pretty adapted to the outdoors. He reminded you of a puppy — a nice, weird puppy that was a little overboard with his admiration for you.

He was a bit strange and a little too enthusiastic for you to handle but c’mon, you practically fought both humans and monsters for a living. What was so scary about this man anyway? Besides, you needed fresh air to clear your head.

You rose to your feet and stepped over the log you sat on. The voices of the two grew faint as you entered the vegetation around the camp, in the direction you knew Jun headed for.

Jun insisted he should be the one carrying back your share to their camp despite occupied arms, but you walked ahead before he could grab the ones in your grasp.

Following you into the camp like a shadow, you saw him walk away in a different direction, to the fire closer to where Lady Wen and Zhongli sat from the corner of your eyes as soon as you two broke into the edge of the camp.

You shrugged, returning to the one further away. The one you left behind to find Jun.

The bundle of sticks and branches gathered in your arms was placed by the fire as you kneeled down to the dirt ground. The warmth of the flame instantly engulfed you; you felt a sheen of chill on your skin vaporize in its heat as you drew near to feed it more wood.

Nights in Liyue, especially in areas dense with trees, were often dewy and cold and this night was one of them. You could feel the cold penetrating your usual traveling cloak and nipping at the skin your dress underneath failed to cover.

The fire crackled and jumped as you fed it the last stick from your finding. Just as you leaned away and settled on the log behind you, you felt a presence hovering beside you.

“It wasn’t wise to go off into the woods alone with him.” His voice answered your question before you could turn to find out who.

There was a tinge of disapproval on his face when you looked up to find Zhongli gazing down on you.

A small ball of anger curled inside you at that face. “I don’t see why not.”

Your eyes flitted behind him, wandering to where Lady Wen was, and found her glancing over while saying something to Jun.

Shuffling feet and the shift of the log beneath you moved your gaze to your side in time to watch Zhongli settling down beside you.

There was a frown on his face.

“Didn’t you see how he looked at you this afternoon?” His gaze seemed to cut into you from the way his piercing eyes dug into yours. “You made me worried sick just now when I looked over and you were not there.”

You looked away; his eyes on you always set your heart pounding. Staring into the fire, you threw out a careless laugh. “Jun isn’t so bad. He’s just a little excited about me, but he is actually pretty nice.”

“A little excited?”

You couldn’t see Zhongli’s face but you could hear the incredulity and exasperation in his voice.

“Anything could have happened among those trees. I’ve lived long enough to know what perverted minds would do and I can see right through him.”

Your breath hitched when you felt the tip of his leather glove graze your hand, but you snatched it away before he could hold it. “Please, could you stay away from him?”

Quite often when you two talked side by side like this, you would always find your hand in his, fiddled absentmindedly as his voice coated the air, but you weren’t up for it this time.

“I’ve fought long enough to be able to handle them.” You hated the way he lectured you like you were a child.

Maybe you were indeed one to him, and this possible fact in your head brought up the memories of Zhongli and Lady Wen’s laughter, the silent look of adoration on Lady Wen’s face, and how clueless you felt sitting around them.

You stood up. “Stop treating me like a child, I don’t need your concerns, Zhongli.” Your voice was icily calm. “Your priority should be Lady Wen, not me.”

You saw something flash across Zhongli’s face but you had too much inside to care and ran for the woods.

Morning came, and this meant it was time to hit the road once more.

You avoided him as much as you could until the carriage was loaded and ready to go. You could feel his eyes on you the entire time you helped to prepare the carriage. You spared no glance at him through it all, but you could sense it off him; his desire to speak to you.

And even more so when you settled yourself beside Jun at the front of the carriage instead of inside.

Jun appeared oblivious, happy you chose your place beside him, not noticing the tension between you two, while Lady Wen glanced between you two but said nothing before politely beckoning Zhongli into the carriage with her.

Zhongli seemed to have resigned himself to your silence and stopped glancing over. The troubled crease between his brows softened as he helped Lady Wen onto the vehicle with a steady hand around hers like the gentleman he is.

Once everyone was settled, Jun beside you turned his head back to the front.

At a flick of his wrists, the horses began to move. The wooden wheels beneath clattered out of their campsite and onto the main path.

You squinted against the filtered sunlight as you cast a glance up at the forest’s canopy, and back down to find a clearing ahead.

The dirt path grew bumpy near the mouth of the forest; you had to resist shooting your hand out to hold Jun who was indifferent to the jerks under them. The path along the forested area eventually led the carriage out into a vast field, instantly greeted by the warmth of the morning sky.

You breathed a sigh of relief as you fell back against the wooden wall behind you the moment the bumpy path ended, connected to a man-made road paved through a small village.

As you were about to straighten away from the wall behind, you caught laughter. Familiar laughs from last night coming from the confines of the carriage behind you.

Zhongli was sure laughing a lot — you couldn’t help noticing as your heart sank with sadness — even he doesn’t laugh this much around you.

Then you grew curious.

“Young Master Wen,” You tried to block out the muffled voices behind you as you turned to Jun, “I hope you wouldn’t mind me prying...but may I know what did your father want to meet Zhongli for?”

You hesitated. “I mean, you know Zhongli is a funeral parlor consultant right? Sorry if I’m being too insensitive, but does anyone require that kind of service in your home?”

Jun didn’t look offended at all, in fact, he burst out laughing at your question, his eyes amused as he flickered a glance over at you.

“I’m not supposed to reveal this yet, but…” His voice dropped even lower, so soft you almost had to lean over to capture his next line. “Mr. Zhongli is being invited over for marriage.”

Your eyes flew wide while your heart dropped. What? Marriage?

“You mean as a guest to witness a wedding?”A sudden fear hammered in your chest. Why were you so scared? It could just be a harmless wedding invitation?

Jun shook his head. “No, as my sister’s husband.”

You blinked in shock at him. Husband ??!

A burst of laughter barked from Jun once more at your reaction. “My sister had loved Mr. Zhongli ever since their encounter. Wen Rong’s birthday is coming up and my father wanted this marriage to be a surprise gift to her.”

Jun turned his eyes back onto the galloping horses before them. “She doesn’t know about this herself; she only thought it was for business, so could you help me keep this a secret?” He threw a grin over and winked.

“Hahaha, sure.” You forced a smile back at him.

Marriage, huh.

This came out of nowhere, but it somehow made sense to you. You’ve seen the chemistry between those two. When they chatted, it was like there was no one else in this world.

You were forgotten by Zhongli the moment this commission started.

Lady Wen Rong and Zhongli.

They were a match made in heaven or what Teyvat has as heaven. Celestia? Whatever.

Perhaps…

You watched as the carriage climbed a gentle hill towards a compound of prestigious-looking houses. Their roofs colored dull green could be seen from where you sat.

…this was where all it ends with Zhongli. He had found a better place, a better person to spend his mortal life with. And you should stop holding him back.

The Wen residence was exactly how you had imagined it to be when you saw it from the hill. The carriage itself was a reflection of all that would greet you.

The corridors stretched far and wide across the large courtyard, around manicured gardens, and connected to the many houses owned by the family.

Perched on the railing dividing the corridor and the trimmed grass beneath your dangling legs, your eyes were once again drawn to the closed doors a small distance away.

—to where Zhongli was enthusiastically escorted into by the Head of the Wen family himself, with Lady Wen treading on their heels.

It happened the moment they stepped through the main gate. Quick gratitude from Lord Wen was all you were given with a generous bag of Mora before he swept the former archon in with his daughter in tow.

Jun had offered you tea and food but you politely rejected them. Your appetite had vanished the moment you heard the news from him on the carriage.

Now, you were caught between wanting to leave and wanting to listen in about their marriage. But the latter quickly won, and you found yourself sneaking over with the stealth you learned from your travels.

Lightly pressing your head to the wooden door, muffled voices penetrated but you had to listen hard to understand them.

Golden eyes pondered over the steaming cup of tea on the table before him, as the memory of the sadness on your face flashed by in his head once again.

It was subtle and he only managed to catch a glimpse of you over his shoulders while he was being whisked away by Lord Wen — but he had watched and memorized you long enough to read you.

It never sat right with him whenever he saw sadness in your eyes. This time, it was unbearable because he was aware he was the cause of it.

But why? Was it wrong of him for wanting you to be safe?

He wanted to apologize, but he knew he shouldn’t until he understood what he was doing it for. It wasn’t because he was prideful; he simply believed an apology should be sincere and not for the sake of it.

Zhongli dropped his shoulders quietly with a soft sigh at the thought of you, eyes flickering over to the doors as he raised his gaze to Lord Wen who had finished giving his servant orders.

Beside her father, Lady Wen was quiet and gazing at her own cup, occasionally stealing glances at him.

“Thank you for coming all the way here, Mr. Zhongli.” The lord finally turned his attention to them, his fingers locking together on the table between them.

Zhongli simply nodded. “Thank you for your invitation, Lord Wen.”

His eyes strayed to the doors for a quick second, along with a silent question about your whereabouts. It felt weird not having you around, especially since this was your commission.

“Right,” He was quick to catch himself from drifting away and cleared his throat, “As much as it’s an honor to be invited here, may I know the purpose of this invitation?”

Zhongli found himself itching to stand and leave this room to search for you, but he could only eye the father-daughter pair with calculated patience.

Lord Wen let out a hearty chuckle, stroking his long beard. “Before we get to the point, what do you think of my daughter?”

At his question, Zhongli glanced over at Lady Wen for a quick second to find her sharing a similar puzzlement on her face.

“She is a wonderful friend.”

A cough ensued from the lord. “No no, what do you think of my daughter as a woman ?”

Lady Wen’s face went red at that question but her reaction went unnoticed.

“Ah, as a woman.” Zhongli’s hand paused in the midst of a sip. The cup was set down as he blinked in bemusement and thought carefully. “...Wen Rong is a woman of wisdom and many talents. Also, with beauty comparable to a glazed lily.”

He didn’t quite expect Lord Wen to burst out laughing as if he was told a joke. “Wen Rong? First-name basis already eh?”

Zhongli looked at him strangely. “I’m not particular about formalities between friends.”

“Nonsense!” Lord Wen waved his hand dismissively at his reply with a wide grin, “Alright, let’s cut the chase. What do you think about marrying our Ah Rong?”

“Father!” Lady Wen looked horrified and extremely embarrassed, glancing over at Zhongli with silent hope among her bashfulness.

But Zhongli did not notice, caught off guard by the sudden marriage proposal.

No wonder. Understanding dawned on his face. He should have realized where all that odd, rather awkward questions were leading to.

Zhongli found himself ready with a clear response to the proposal; he knew his answer right away. His mind went straight to you the moment this question was sprung on him; it has been clear to him for a long time.

Cup to his lips, Zhongli tilted his head back in one sip. He could feel their anticipation on him.

Golden eyes glinted decisively as the cup, now empty, was set down on the table in a quiet, yet firm manner.

“Thank you for your offer in marriage.”

He mirrored Lord Wen, gloved fingers locking together on the table.

“I’m very flattered to be presented with such a priceless offer, given that Wen Rong is a dream to, I’m sure, many men in this world.”

He watched Lord Wen’s face brighten. “But I—”

A muffled shuffle of footsteps outside the room snatched his gaze away from the father and daughter; their eyes followed his.

Zhongli caught a flicker of silhouette behind the paper screens of the windowed doors. Could it be…?

Alarmed, he quickly climbed to his feet and threw open the doors, much to Lord Wen’s protests. His head turned in the direction of where he saw the movement and—

And his heart sank.

…No.

Then Zhongli broke into a run.

“Thank you for your offer in marriage.”

Zhongli...He was going to accept it, huh.

“I’m very flattered to be presented with such a priceless offer, given that Wen Rong is a dream to, I’m sure, many men in this world.”

You rose from the crouch you were in. Tears were flooding your eyes and you were frustrated.

Frustrated at yourself for feeling sad instead of happy for your friend. Frustrated that you could not compete with Lady Wen for Zhongli. Frustrated that you accidentally gave yourself away with that loud shuffling of your feet. Frustrated at the tears for nearly blinding you as you hurried away.

Hurry to where?

You didn’t know. All you wanted was to get as far away as you can. Somewhere you could disappear to, so that you could just make sense of yourself and all these crazy emotions inside you.

But, you heard the doors you left slam open before you could get any further.

Shit.

Your heart hammered in your chest and your mouth went dry. You did not need to turn around to know who burst through those doors.

—and he was the very person you wanted to get as far away from.

So you ran.

Your legs were carrying you down the hallways the fastest they could to outrun the longer pair behind you. You didn’t want to be a drama queen, but you just couldn’t stop.

Where was the main gate again?

You did not know where the hell you were running to. You just ran blindly, turning into any corner the winding vendettas led you.

There was a chance you could end up in a dead-end but screw it, you will find a way out of this maze-like compound even if it meant climbing over the walls fencing around it.

You could hear him calling out your name in a voice you’d never thought you would hear from Zhongli.

There was desperation leaking through the cracks in his voice— why was he even desperate? Desperate to tell you he was sorry that he was going to leave you?

You skidded around a bend and—

well, SHIT.

— your hands palmed against the wall curled into fists. Just your luck to really meet a dead end. You glanced up, hoping that it was a fence wall, but only to find no opening.

You needed another escape route.

You spun around and gasped instantly to find that Zhongli had blocked off your only way out. Unlike the voice you heard him speak in, he did not look desperate at all.

The tension in his shoulders and the unreadable look in his golden eyes made him look…almost menacing as he approached. Step by step.

He did not look like the Zhongli, the funeral parlor consultant you hung out with — your breath shook with your heart as the sight before you intimidated you with a creeping fear.

—from the way his golden eyes blazed amber at you, he looked like the Rex Lapis he was instead. The Geo Archon of this land.

Spending so much time with Zhongli has made you forget that he was an archon, he was a god everyone in Liyue worshipped.

And this made you realize how much more inferior you were—

You didn’t have the beauty, comparable enough to a goddess like Lady Wen or the wisdom to keep up with him.

What were you? You’re just a traveller who only knows how to survive in the wilderness, all just to take back your missing brother from some unknown god.

What did you have to offer?

…foolish of you to think that you could stand beside him when you didn’t even belong in Teyvat. You were unworthy.

Tears were starting to well up in your eyes once again at these thoughts.

Shit.

You could not bear to meet his eyes, knowing the tears in them were obvious. Your eyes dropped away from his, looking for an opening, anything so you could just…just...

A resigned sigh left you, your shoulders falling slack as you felt energy leave you.

“—let me go.” your voice was thick with falling tears as you finally spoke. You brought your eyes back to his. “I’m leaving, and you’ve got a wedding to plan for.” You wiped your tears away.

Your gaze lingered on his in the brief silence.”...I’ll wait for your invitation.”

Then you moved forward, trying to sidestep him.

But before you could make it past him—

Your eyes widened. ...!!!

—he met your lips forcefully, slanting his lips over yours dominatingly.

You felt the air knocked out of you and your heart missed a beat as Zhongli backed you up onto the dead-end wall behind, with a hand caressing the back of your head and your mouths connected by the onslaught of his lips.

Over your head, his left arm propped against the wall behind you as his mighty figure bent over your smaller one, with a sound similar to a growl coming from the back of his throat.

Quickly losing foot against his demanding lips, you found yourself unable to resist as you melted at the feel of his lips pressed over yours. You were weak for him; you always were.

The aggressive force behind his lips grew faint the moment he felt you relax into him. His kiss was now tender, almost a delicate dance of twisting and turning over yours, and eventually inside after he coaxed you to open.

As if you were the dearest thing to him, treating you like you could break if he was any rougher like he did seconds ago.

Short, heavy breaths accompanied your locking lips as he hoped the affections behind his kiss were enough to tell you what you needed to know.

After a few lingering seconds, his lips on yours slowed as Zhongli made a move to end the kiss, reluctantly pulling his lips away. 

Disbelief crashed like a wave upon you the instant your lips lost the warmth of his. Things still seemed surreal to you.

Why did Zhongli…?

How could he…?

Hand raised, its warm, bare palm cupping against your cheek cut off the doubtful thoughts in your head before it could drown you.

Your eyes hesitantly turned to his as he tilted your face up to his — then your breath was caught in your throat at the softest look you’d ever seen in his eyes.

In the sea of gold and amber, there was worry in the midst of his affection that was beaming down at you just like the sun.

“Wen Rong is just a friend to me,” His voice was firm but gentle, “so I will not be accepting her father’s offer.”

A frown creased between your brows.

“But…” Doubt clouded your heart.

Despite sensing his love from the kiss, stubborn doubts still continued to whisper about yourself. It was no longer about Lady Wen and him.

“Are you sure?” … about me? You wanted to voice that, but your fear held your tongue.

There was a pause of silence before Zhongli chuckled. “Not that I mind, but are you trying to get me to kiss you again?

You flinched with bashful blinks, not expecting his reply.

Zhongli suddenly regarded you seriously, the amusement in his eyes gone.

“...Or perhaps I should just marry you.”

His hand released your chin and went to his own as he stepped back with a thoughtful face.

“What? Tha-That’s too sudden!”

You two haven’t even officially dated!

There was another pause of silence from Zhongli before he cleared his throat, hiding his laughter behind a cough at how red you got.

“But would you want to?” He was serious again.“I meant, get married to me.” Zhongli added as if he wasn’t clear enough.

Silence.

“...yes, of course, eventually.”

Zhongli smiled. “Good.”

You felt your heart flutter in your chest at that smile; he was truly happy about your answer.

Your eyes caught movement below and flickered down to watch his hand envelope yours. “Come,”

With that said, Zhongli gently tugged you to walk with him, his hand releasing yours as soon as you fell in step beside him.

You have always suspected Zhongli was a romantic, being a gentleman and all he was.

But knowing and being the receiving end of his affection was worlds apart, so you found yourself surprised again when he pressed a chaste kiss to your temples.

“...Let’s reject their offer properly together.”

.

.

.

—published on 28.01.2022

all rights reserved ©justgenshin

GENSHIN MEN & DOING CUTE AUTUMN THINGS .

characters. zhongli diluc kaeya childe neuvillette alhaitham kaveh x gn!reader genre. romantic fluff. an. happy almost october. which means happy almost christmas | please reblog!! im getting back into writing and reblogs with tags and comments will make me want to write more :D

zhongli

autumn, with zhongli, is sitting around a bonfire together. his hands are tightly wrapped around you, with you leaning against his shoulder – liyue never had seasons like these, so experiences like these came far and few. it was lovely all the same, sitting nestled in the leaves with you.

diluc

autumn, with diluc, is helping him with the autumn harvest. carts of grapes, pumpkins, cantaloupes, tomatoes, and more were filled to the brim, with two satisfied smiles on your faces after as he pushed the cart back to the manor. a sweet tradition, always ending with a glass of the harvest's finest wine at the end of the day.

kaeya

autumn, with kaeya, is always filled with baking and your household smelling like the grand mixture of cinnamon, butter and nutmeg. pumpkin pie, apple pie, cinnamon rolls, pecan bars, apple crisps and so many more left no more room for actual eating at the kitchen counters – time to host another soirée!

childe

autumn, with childe, is always competing to gather the biggest pile of leaves outside to jump into, within the coziness of your backyard. some years, the children eagerly watched the you go against each other, only for childe to tackle you into your pile of leaves. you always forgive him, though – you can't stay mad at your favourite ginger.

neuvillette

autumn, with neuvillette, is taking a stroll through the cold gardens of fontaine. the air seems to whisper and flitter about, and the melusines skip around as happily as ever. neuvillette forgets about all his worries the moment his hand slips in yours so perfectly – it seems as if your hand was made exactly for his.

alhaitham

autumn, with alhaitham, is booking an isolated cabin in the woods – and spending your most favourite two weeks of the year there. the air is sweetened with the scent of cinnamon biscuits and browned butter. you and alhaitham finally get to take a breath away from the bustle of sumeru city, and curl up within each other to read and live.

kaveh

autumn, with kaveh, is booking every single haunted house and maze you can find on the sumeru websites. you laugh as you watch your boyfriend's face turn from pleasantness to a horror-filled shock, the most high-pitched squealing and shrieking you've ever heard extract out of his body when the jumpscares start. he may have grabbed your hand too tightly, and now there's a red mark.

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𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐮𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬

ft. albedo, childe, kaeya, xiao, zhongli x gn!reader

genre: fluff, headcanons, modern au

a/n: hello shawties <33 how is everyone doing today??? enjoy this little thing i made in the middle of trying to study w/ my walnut brain constantly getting brainrots instead of processing studies

→ ALBEDO on weekend mornings would wake up somewhere between 6:30 am to 7. he knows you don't wake up that early so he'll lay down a bit until you start your first yawn of the day. he'll let out a small smile before leaving the bed and wait for you, sitting in the living room reading a book. don't tell anyone but whenever albedo wakes up he's flawless — what's your secret, mr. albedo???

→ CHILDE, from all the exhaustion he'd face during his work would sleep in on weekends. if he's super exhausted, he'd cling on you and won't let you out from the bed. finally waking up he'll start with torturing you with kisses. if he wakes up earlier than you, expect malewife childe to make breakfast in the kitchen for his wonderful and still-very-tired spouse <3

→ KAEYA, much like childe would cling on to you, but not ample. he'll let you off his hands once he feels like it, but all he wants to see is your face basking in the beautiful 9 am sunlight while he strokes your face ;) usually, he'll wake up from friday night whilst he was drunk and sober. yet still looking absolutely gorgeous when he wakes up the next day. how???

→ XIAO would honestly just lay down and watch you sleep (even though his day starts long before the sun rises), and as soon as the sun wakes up, he'll call you yet still get off the bed at the same time as you. he finds you gorgeous when you bask in the 9 am sunlight yet he doesn't really say it. how can someone be so precious yet so scary? god i don't understand xiao sometimes

→ ZHONGLI would literally be right in front of you as soon as you wake up. no matter what the day is, he'll always be waking up right at 5 o clock. pspsp give me your tips zhong he'd give you some tea to start the day as there's no disturbances to well,, disturb you?? but yeah, he'll start the day off saying stories again and again, and his soothing voice'll never get tiring in your eyes~