A/N: I'm going to call this a spiritual successor to Soul Mind Body.
Unable to get out of the end of year cocktail party for his company, Xie Lian invites his fiancée to have someone to engage with and to not endure it alone. Turns out there are things both Hua Cheng and Xie Lian are hiding from one another and tonight they reveal an uncomfortable truth, one more than the other.
Soft Hualian, Modern AU -- Corporate Setting, One Creepy Boss, Protective/Soft Hua Cheng, Strong To A Fault Xie Lian
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Roll 3
Sanctuary
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Xie Lian didn't hate many things, but he thoroughly disliked these fancy cocktail parties.
They're usually on the same day every year, unless that day happens to be a Saturday or Sunday. He used to not be important enough to be invited to these events. For the last three years, however, Xie Lian has reportedly become an "invaluable" asset to Wuyong so he's been unable to get out of attending. Last year, he wanted to bring San Lang with him, but his then-boyfriend, had been rather busy and Xie Lian didn't want to take him away from something important, especially with a very last-minute notice.
So this year, Xie Lian asked San Lang if he wouldn't mind accompanying him as his plus one. San Lang had no objections and Xie Lian truly believed if San Lang didn't want to go, he would have just said he didn't want to. He really should have known better by now.
San Lang would go because Xie Lian had asked him, disregarding his own feelings about it, thinking them irrelevant. It was a subject they should discuss later, but Hua Cheng practically had a PhD in avoiding subjects that made him uncomfortable. He even withheld rather vital information just to make Xie Lian not hesitate about asking him to go.
For this party, Xie Lian still didn't really know how he should dress for the occasion. That first party he was invited to made him feel incredibly out of place and underdressed, now he still wasn't sure despite putting more effort into his appearance than ever before.
Seeing his fiancée before him left him stunned. Likely because Xie Lian rarely ever got to lay eyes on San Lang in a suit.
He looked incredibly handsome in his suit. It was difficult not to stare.
At a glance, Xie Lian knew San Lang downplayed his innate desire to accessorize since he was only wearing one set of earrings despite all his piercings. He was even wearing mostly black, with only his tie having delicate embroidered accents of his signature color. The image of red florals. It also sort of fits with the holiday season. San Lang also wore the cufflinks Xie Lian had gotten him as a gift a year or so ago. Small silver butterflies. He just happened to see them one day and was reminded of Hua Cheng so he bought them. Despite knowing San Lang wasn't someone who typically wore formal clothes.
Looking at him was breathtaking and Xie Lian saw all the effort Hua Cheng put into his appearance as well as thinking how he'd be perceived by others. Usually Hua Cheng aimed for threatening on a daily basis, but today he was rather reserved and inviting which was quite the jump. Xie Lian appreciated it greatly.
Xie Lian feels like he falls in love all over again.
Occasionally since their engagement several months ago, Xie Lian wondered what they're even waiting for. He's so ready to call Hua Cheng his husband like it's the most natural thing in the world. He just loves him so much it's all encompassing.
"—Gege, are you...?" Hua Cheng asks with concern, with a light hand touching his face as if to check his temperature. He's certain he would find him incurring a fever. When he pulls away he thinks maybe he must have not done a good enough job on what to wear for the occasion.
The tone of voice pulls Xie Lian's attention from his own lovestruck thoughts.
"Do you think I look alright?"
Hua Cheng wants to be worthy of hanging around Xie Lian's arm all night and he hopes he's achieved that goal. To him, Xie Lian's beauty was otherworldly so he could only try his best. He wonders if he might not have done enough?
Looking at that rather conflicted expression, Xie Lian doesn't even bother trying to verbally convince San Lang that he is perfect.
He gives into his whims and kisses him right there without a word.
" Oh ." Hua Cheng says after the quick but passionate kiss, an understanding takes over him, replacing the uneasiness entirely, "I can wear a suit again if it pleases you."
"San Lang, you're always so handsome in whatever you wear."
Despite his confident nature with everyone else, Hua Cheng still found it hard to handle when his love complimented him. Which is probably why Xie Lian liked to compliment San Lang frequently . Everytime the thought comes to mind even.
However sometimes San Lang took this as permission to tease endlessly, but Xie Lian wouldn't have it any other way.
"We should go, I don't want to be late." He didn't want to make a scene upon entering or exiting. Truly it might be better if he wasn't perceived at all tonight.
"They could stand to wait a few moments gege..." Hua Cheng says leaning in. It's like he gets a spark of renewed energy when Xie Lian kisses him. He's always left desiring more. Insatiable , that man.
"I feel like that kiss was too quick, would you do me another honor of kissing me again?"
A pause. Hua Cheng's body is tilted forward as he leaned closer to Xie Lian's height and therefore his mouth.
Eyes downcast from this level, that look is absolutely divine .
"Please?" So soft and so needy. Like he's asking for something much different.
Xie Lian pretends to think it over in his mind, tilting his head in feigned consideration. But the answer would always be Yes of course. He'll indulge his San Lang because there was nothing he'd rather do more.
"You spoil me," San Lang whispers against him. I don't think I can tear myself away. Is what his eyes seem to say, but Xie Lian has enough willpower for the both of them, leading him out the door with a light grasp of his hand.
San Lang keeps giving him glances as he drives to their location. Xie Lian purposefully avoids but he's entirely aware nonetheless. It was silly how Hua Cheng made him feel sometimes, how those butterflies always seem to remain after all this time.
Half of him thinks that maybe he should have thought better about bringing San Lang to a work event. He loves him but the blatant openly expressive romantic would sometimes be too much even for him.
Months ago, Xie Lian viewed himself in their full size mirror, taking in the view of his new suit. It seemed fine, San Lang had stood behind him, admiring, and taking it in, Xie Lian turned around to see his fiancée's opinion.
It was a crisp white suit with a white tie that exactly matched the base color. This suit was custom made to fit him, and he wore it now to try it on and to account for any adjustments it might need.
San Lang had looked at him with an inquisitive nature, as if he had something more to say. Xie Lian asked for his opinion and for him to be honest about it.
"I think it's perfect," San Lang says, taking a hand over Xie Lian's chest, feeling the fabric, maybe to smooth it out, "White compliments you."
"Nothing else? You don't think the sleeves are too short?"
"No," He took Xie Lian's hand, turning over his wrist as if expecting, and it seemed, he had an idea, "I..have an idea, Gege, if you wouldn't mind giving this suit to me for some time?"
"If that's okay with you?"
Xie Lian didn't have any particular attachments to the way the suit looked now, and trusted San Lang implicitly, so he gave it to him that day to do with what he saw fit. Xie Lian didn't have any idea how it would look when he got it back but he felt no anxiety over it whatsoever.
It wasn't meant to be worn on this occasion specifically, nor his actual wedding, he just was in the market for a suit at the time, not really feeling like himself in an all-black ensemble. So he requested this specific shade of white.
The memory of giving San Lang his suit had left his mind for the most part, and when thinking about what to wear to this upcoming party, he was just going to wear the same thing he wore the year prior.
But then, San Lang had surprised him giving him the improved suit only a few days ago,
As expected, San Lang's judgment was phenomenal. The previous monochrome white had been adorned with delicate embroidered accents of gold thread on the cuffs, shoulders and collar. From up close, now that he wore it, the details were so stunning he found himself staring idly on the way in the car. Turning his wrist to admire the work in a sort of awe and wonder. He ran his fingers over the thread, liking the way it felt under his touch.
Another addition easily spotted, was a gold lapel chain connecting from the pocket to a brooch pinned on the suit. The brooch itself, a small diamond shape with a small red inlaid gem, barely the width of two of his fingers touching together.
Xie Lian's hair was long, sleek and shiny and when facing him directly, you could see the natural sheen of the red coral pearl earrings he wore. One glance could tell you they were no cheap item.
San Lang had watched his inspection of the gem, feeling the need to inform his fiancée, "I had bought it in passing, thought it would match."
Just as Xie Lian's eyes looked back up, San Lang's gaze returned to the road. Xie Lian knew not to take his words at face value, he said that it didn't really matter that much, like it was a mere trinket he had found lying on the street. Like it didn't match the gold detailing or the red of his earrings. Like it wasn't a very deliberate choice San Lang had made.
He knew without San Lang informing him that his floral tie was also decorated by the same hands. The motifs were so well chosen, that Xie Lian can only think San Lang had an explicit say in what went into both of their designs. The thought made him feel warm that San Lang put so much care into it. He doesn't know why San Lang doesn't take more pride in the things that he does.
Xie Lian wasn't used to being dressed in expensive clothes, not since before his parents had died. It felt a bit like putting on a second skin to mask what was underneath. He tried to remind him of how San Lang looked at him when he put the suit on. With all the adoration of someone looking at their idol. It soothed something deep in his soul.
"You look like a prince." Sure, on the surface the statement was a bit silly, but the way Hua Cheng had said it felt entirely genuine.
He started to overthink a bit, thinking maybe he had actually overdressed for the party. Maybe he'd take up too much attention. Then when he got to the party, he realized that wasn't the case. He was actually appropriately dressed for once.
" Gege is the most handsome one here," San Lang says, barely audible for any one else. A soft sort of feeling warmed over him at the assurance.
He only wanted to make known that Xie Lian was the most handsome. Simply making his love known was San Lang's greatest pleasure.
It wasn't a bad thing, realizing he wasn't overdressed. Xie Lian thinks he feels rightly humbled and more comfortable now. If anything he feels happy to be neither under or overdressed for the occasion.
Beautiful, handsome, no words of that nature were off limits to describing Xie Lian. He was somehow all those words at once.
Xie Lian would venture to guess there were at least 200 people in attendance. It felt much larger than last year's event. Maybe more people in the company were invited?
Every year since Wuyong's founding 15 years ago their CEO Jun Wu always liked to throw these events. As they gained more profit the events have only gotten more extravagant with time. In the last six or so years however, Jun Wu hardly made an appearance anymore. With someone as wealthy and conventionally attractive as him, anytime he is spotted in public it's a spectacle.
Despite his absence it isn't felt very much. The end of the year party celebrated Wuyong's profits and promised continued growth and highlighting important members in the company. At least on paper that's what this was about.
For the most part employees networked with others, and kept running up the tab with their paid-for-by-the-company drinks and appetizers. Xie Lian wasn't one for excess and found these parties to be a little too much. Too loud, too socially draining.
He has also heard of sometimes rather unacceptable activities that would take place under all the glamor. Though he's never seen anything and only heard unpalatable rumors.
Though he didn't pay attention to things he had no evidence of, he still found himself wanting San Lang with him today. He always felt safer with him around.
Not that he thought anything would happen, just...He also hoped it might help him network too since his fiancée was facing his own business endeavors.
San Lang's company had been doing well enough to be noticed by a larger conglomerate and San Lang had denied the offer for acquisition. Xie Lian doesn't like to talk business much at home but he assumed it was some overseas company that didn't know anything about the kind of tech Hua Cheng had actually been working on. (Xie Lian barely knew it himself.)
Xie Lian automatically had come to the conclusion that they undervalued him and gave him a terrible offer. San Lang's disdain for the meeting he had with them two months ago was clear. At the time, San Lang didn't seem to want to elaborate, and Xie Lian wasn't ever one to pry.
He has his own opinions on the end of the year party but most people actually like being here. The only one he can think of who doesn't would likely be Ling Wen. He will be sure to find her in the crowd somewhere around. She can't get out of it any more than he could now.
"Do you think he might be here today?" A whisper catches Xie Lian's ear, and he wonders who they might be referring to. Certainly not Jun Wu. Even though not everyone in Wuyong has seen him, you would know if he walked on the premises.
Something Xie Lian had actually been smiling at the thought of outwardly but secretly dreading. He was hoping Jun Wu wouldn't make good on his promise to appear this year.
"No surely not, you must have heard how he spoke to Jun Wu a month ago," A woman's voice said, "No way he'd show up here."
Oh, so not about Jun Wu then. But now this was even more intriguing.
San Lang seems to catch interest in something and gently pulls Xie Lian's attention with ease. Leaving his fiancée to vaguely wonder what that conversation was about. Did an employee manage to offend Jun Wu with no consequences? He can't imagine that to be even remotely possible.
That was certainly something to think about...
"Gege, why don't you introduce me to some of your coworkers. I only know Shi Qingxuan after all."
Now that was not like San Lang to request such a thing. However, San Lang's voice was always so nice to hear and it sounded like a pleasant idea upon his suggestion. But giving it a second of logical thought, realistically...San Lang wouldn't like them.
But he sounded so genuine in his interest, Xie Lian wouldn't hesitate to introduce him. It would be rude not to, seeing as San Lang is his plus one and they would be married in the near future.
Looking around, he sees the first person on the company's marketing team. Which is Xie Lian's department.
Pei Ming, Xie Lian observes him and sees him in a rather joyful mood conversing with a female member of the wait staff. Maybe it won't be so bad, maybe Pei Ming can make a good enough impression that San Lang won't instantly find him distasteful. (He's not super optimistic.)
When the waitress leaves to serve other guests, leaving Pei Ming's gaze trailing away. Likely looking for another woman to engage with.
Those dark eyes land on him and to Xie Lian's surprise, Pei Ming gestures with his glass for Xie Lian to come over.
They made eye contact and Xie Lian had no choice but to pull San Lang over with him.
Technically Xie Lian is Pei Ming's superior, but to the outside looking in they wouldn't assume so. Xie Lian is friendly with anyone regardless of status, and his subordinates were no exception. He felt more like peers with them. Shi Qingxuan once made the lighthearted remark that Xie Lian "avoids conflict like poison," and Xie Lian couldn't deny it.
"Good evening Pei Ming," Xie Lian greets with a light wave of his hand. San Lang stands closely behind him, as if waiting for introduction.
"Good evening, Xie Lian," Pei Ming greets warmly, looking at San Lang with a sort of curiosity and caution. Everyone did the first time they met him, Hua Cheng was as intriguing as he was handsome. His complete heterochromia was always a wonder the first time anyone saw it.
"San Lang," Xie Lian addresses with a gesture, "This is Pei Ming."
San Lang must think he missed that look he gave because he immediately, and seamlessly transitions to a rather appropriate and conservative (but still forced) smile. Right.
Xie Lian suppressed the urge to nudge him to say, I saw that.
"Pei Ming," Xie Lian addressed smoothly, filing that humorous reaction to mention later, "This is Hua Cheng my—-"
"Hua Cheng?" Pei Ming interrupts, as if saying Wait, instead of a name.
Xie Lian intakes a sharp breath feeling slighted. No change showing on his face, only serenity. He didn't even get to say the word fiancée.
San Lang looked more visibly annoyed than Xie Lian at this.
"You wouldn't happen to be the same 'Hua Cheng' who met with our CEO not that long ago?"
Pei Ming's voice is rather loud conveying his complete disbelief.
What? Xie Lian looks to him, totally certain Pei Ming must be mistaken. Surely, Pei Ming must have the name wrong. He looks at San Lang, expecting an easy denial. But after a beat, then two and the denial isn't spoken Pei Ming looks delighted at the drama.
"You are! You must be!" It's almost accusatory with the way he says it.
"Excuse me, can one of you confirm what this is about?" Xie Lian is confused as to why San Lang wasn't saying anything, why Pei Ming seemed certain about something he didn't know for sure. Clearly the two don't actually know each other. What's this about a meeting? Did San Lang neglect to tell him—
"You know I didn't think you would actually be here," Pei Ming stopped looking at Xie Lian focusing solely on Hua Cheng and Xie Lian feels like he's being ignored. Wouldn't be the first time, nor the last. He lets Pei Ming talk, "It makes sense if you would try to apologize and accept a lesser deal after some contemplation. And Jun Wu is— "
"Pei Ming," Hua Cheng speaks, tone icy, "I would prefer if you didn't completely ignore my husband who was trying to speak to you."
Husband, Xie Lian's shocked San Lang just said that with no hesitance. After a moment for it to sink in, he decides really likes the word so much he doesn't bother to correct.
"Oh. Husband you say? You two? I see...," He says glossing over it quickly, Xie Lian expected more fanfare out of someone like Pei Ming especially when he loves talking about other's sex lives almost as much as his own, "But that doesn't change what you said to Jun Wu. In fact, it only makes things more dramatic."
"Hua Cheng..." Pei Ming ruminates, his eyes alight with interest. "If I remember correctly, when you ended that meeting you said something rather rude —"
Pei Ming was clearly about to say what it was San Lang had said then, but he is again interrupted.
"I don't think this event is the time nor place," San Lang says his words sharp and final almost as if he was scolding a mere child. Pei Ming's mouth snaps shut at the sight of that very serious expression.
San Lang only glares for a millisecond more before his expression turns amenable, he turns, facing Xie Lian grasping his hands with a light grip in a sort of reverence and care.
"Sorry Gege," He says sincerely, he wore a familiar sorrowful expression,"I didn't think this would come up so soon, but I have been keeping a slight lie."
Pei Ming loves drama and doesn't move away even when he's become a mere spectator to this conversation now.
"I did tell Jun Wu some rather– unsavory things, I only feel remorse if this will make things difficult for you."
"I doubt it, Jun Wu hardly knows I exist," Xie Lian says, it's a complete lie.
San Lang may be unable to willfully lie to Xie Lian but the other way does not apply. In this case, he doesn't want San Lang to worry how his actions may or may not affect him. He's certain Jun Wu doesn't even know Hua Cheng is connected to him so intimately. So really did it matter anyway?
Yes, Xie Lian lied. Unfortunately for him, San Lang is the most attentive person in his life. Though if San Lang ever catches on that Xie Lian has lied, he rarely ever says a word against it. Knowing Xie Lian never lies with malicious intent. He will only call him out when the lie might be harmful to Xie Lian himself.
If Hua Cheng noticed his lie he doesn't say verbally.
"Wait, you say you only feel remorse if this'll make things difficult for him," Pei Ming notes aloud and unable to keep quiet for long it seemed. "So you don't actually—"
"Not at all."
He doesn't even look at Pei Ming when he answered. Pei Ming laughs at this display of arrogance, now that Hua Cheng had spoken to him, he deems this acknowledgement as proof to continue speaking."Reading the room" is a trait Pei Ming is capable of, but in every instance he chooses whether or not his entertainment is worth more.
"I suppose you aren't here to grovel and instead came to be with your husband then," Pei Ming observes, a click of his tongue "Better go telling people a different name if you plan to stick around any longer. From what I hear, Jun Wu is actually making an appearance today."
(Xie Lian doesn't like that certainty that's in his voice.)
"Gege, if this information means you want me to leave then—"
"Of course I don't want you to leave," Xie Lian stops him right there, "I'm sure whatever it was you said can't have been that bad. Besides you are my plus one, and you are here already."
San Lang looks a bit awed at his insistence but nods his head in agreement.
"Okay we will stay."
"Let's go then, I see Ling Wen, I'm sure she would like to meet you as well."
Pei Ming doesn't even bother with a 'goodbye' as he's already speaking with a beautiful woman on the floor not far away. Xie Lian takes San Lang by the hand, he has definitely has had enough of Pei Ming for the night.
*
Like San Lang, Xie Lian also 'neglected to mention' something. Over a month before this very day, Jun Wu had called him to his office.
He made a big speech about how Xie Lian was such a great addition and a 'very improved' employee and such a hard worker. "An inspiration to the entirety of Wuyong as a whole." So he...offered a chance, for Xie Lian to give a speech at the company's end of the year party.
"Just a few words," about who helped motivate him, and guide him in his endeavors.
Xie Lian of course knew what was said and what wasn't said were two very different things.
One , this wasn't 'an offer' it was an order.
Two , Jun Wu's reputation was hit a while ago with certain rumors about his treatment of employees and he wants Xie Lian to give a good nice speech about him. Despite Jun Wu literally not helping him ever.
Jun Wu also had given an underlying not-so subtle threat. If Xie Lian didn't do this, he would no longer have his job, reputation or ever get hired anywhere else again.
He said all this of course, (and purposefully not said some of it) while making Xie Lian feel the most uncomfortable he's ever felt in his life.
He didn't actually do anything harmful. Just say something slightly...weird, and make him feel slimy and want to say he had a boyfriend but he kept his mouth shut. Xie Lian was openly gay, anyone who didn't know it by now would have to be obtuse to some degree or just plain never spoke to him. Maybe by choosing Xie Lian for this, Jun Wu thought could garner this image of "inclusivity" at their company.
"Thank you for this opportunity sir," He said at that meeting for good measure and a quick exit, "I won't let you down."
So it's not that he wasn't worried about potential consequences of San Lang's actions affecting him. He was already on his boss' radar for several different reasons.
Jun Wu was, in one word, terrifying.
A month was ample time to prepare a speech. Enough time to practice the words and make it seem natural. Enough time to imagine a hand on his shoulder and to not flinch or recoil from it. People will be watching, people will notice.
San Lang would notice a reaction like that.
And it was best, to not let San Lang worry.
He steels himself for the speech he knows he has to give. But still hoped for the miniscule chance, that Jun Wu wouldn't show up at all.
"San Lang?" Xie Lian asks, "Why did you allow me to ask you to come if you knew you had offended my boss?"
San Lang looks guilty but still answers honestly, "I didn't think it was that important that I may have offended your boss. I only thought about how you had asked me to come. You wanted me here so I would be."
Xie Lian should have expected that answer. He's so endearing, he is somehow still glad he asked San Lang to come, just him being here gives him courage.
"If you want to mingle without me gege, I don't mind. I'll be just fine."
San Lang was giving him a way out, and Xie Lian didn't want to take it. He wanted San Lang next to him.
"We can stay together. I want to introduce you as my husband ." He says with a smile, joy is entirely genuine. He pulls San Lang in a different direction eagerly.
Xie Lian never spoke bad about anyone, especially when they weren't around. Still, when Xie Lian spoke of Pei Ming, Hua Cheng got the impression of a lazy, self-important loser. Even though Xie Lian himself said none of those things.
"He's certainly a character," Xie Lian had said hesitantly when Hua Cheng had asked for a little more elaboration after he had described him vaguely, " He uh apparently sleeps around...always getting himself involved with a secretary..."
Even that much was hard for him to say. Over the years, Hua Cheng retains most if not all of the information Xie Lian says. Was it crazy to want to know the people your boyfriend spent time with regularly?
There was the aforementioned Pei Ming, then Shi Qingxuan, Xie Lian's college friend, and really best friend, if that title had to go to anyone else. There was Feng Xin and Mu Qing. Mu Qing who recently requested a change of departments altogether. Then there was the newest addition Lang Qingqi. Ling Wen who used to be Xie Lian's boss, but was moved to a different department and Xie Lian was promoted afterward.
Hua Cheng had his own formed opinions on each of them based on the things Xie Lian had said previously. The most favorable by far being Shi Qingxuan, and everyone else in the category of "imbecile." But for Xie Lian he will pretend to have no opinions whatsoever.
Instead of Xie Lian finding someone to introduce his husband to, he is found by someone else quickly and unexpectedly.
"I see this must be Hua Cheng?" Ling Wen says, Xie Lian though caught by surprise somehow doesn't jump at the sound of her voice.
"Yes," Xie Lian answers for him, knowing Pei Ming must have gotten to her first and immediately told her, "Hua Cheng, this is Ling Wen. Ling Wen, this is my husband."
Ling Wen looks neither happy or upset. But somehow content seemed like too simple a word for her clearly regularly bored expression. She puts out her hand to shake his, and Hua Cheng notes her strong hold.
"You don't seem like the type to be married." She says, and Xie Lian doesn't know if she's talking about one of them or the both of them equally.
"Well we are." Xie Lian says, almost defensively. (Hua Cheng finds this makes him incredibly happy.)
"I see," She says with a longer look at the two of them, "How are you both finding the party?"
"Dull," Hua Cheng says honestly without thinking, and at the same time Xie Lian says,
"Nice."
Xie Lian looks to San Lang almost admonishingly, "We only just got here."
"I assume you've had some time to mingle considering the party started an hour ago."
Apparently this is news to Xie Lian, they had gotten here late anyway. He should know better than to trust Shi Qingxuan alone for their information.
"We've mingled some, we spoke to Pei Ming just now."
Xie Lian only mentions Pei Ming to try and get a reaction, he knows she must have spoken to him and thats how she knew Xie Lian's plus one was Hua Cheng. Ling Wen looks almost amused at the mention of him, but her expressions are always so controlled, it's hard to tell.
"I'm sure that was very illuminating," She says and it's at this moment Hua Cheng realizes she did have a personality.
"I should be off," She says which wasn't a lie. Ling Wen was a very important person in the company. Definitely more so than Xie Lian. Certainly many people were wanting to talk to her.
"It was nice to meet you Hua Cheng," Ling Wen says, despite tone indicating she didn't care either way, "I hope you enjoy yourself Xie Lian."
Her comment indicates she knows he doesn't usually, and also indicates she might know about the speech he's supposed to give later. But maybe that second part was all in his head.
"Look, Shi Qingxuan is here as well, you should say hello to them." She offers a way out of her vicinity, somehow despite her gentle tone of voice there wasn't much room for them to do anything else.
Xie Lian pulls his San Lang closer, and they meet up with freshly arrived Shi Qingxuan. "Fashionably late," They would put it, when Xie Lian knows they probably just forgot about the party altogether until someone called them. (Likely Ling Wen herself had sent a curt message to them at some point.)
Shi Qingxuan is dressed more femininely today, with white pants and a light blue blouse. They also wore a pale pink neck scarf as an accessory.
Hua Cheng knew Shi Qingxuan already, and saw them dress more femininely than not. But Xie Lian has mentioned they typically dress more masculine around the office. Especially during meetings when people from other offices tend to misgender them. They never get upset over it feeling it rather inconsequential if someone they don't care for doesn't remember or know what they prefer.
"Hua Cheng!" Shi Qingxuan says loudly, Xie Lian nearly flinches at the tone of voice considering people know about the drama he previously didn't.
"I'm surprised to see you here, not so much your fiancée though."
Xie Lian laughs a bit, still nervous and Hua Cheng remains neutral at this. Despite the clear indication they already knew of Hua Cheng's... Xie Lian doesn't bother asking how they knew it always seemed like Shi Qingxuan knew everything.
"Yeah, I kind of dragged him here," Xie Lian admits, then leaning in, "And we are saying he's my husband."
"Makes good practice I suppose. Introducing him as your husband before it's official," Shi Qingxuan says with a shrug, not caring or asking why they decided to lie. (They're assuming Hua Cheng said it first though forcing a polite Xie Lian to play along.)
"However maybe this wasn't the best place for a practice round considering..." Shi Qingxuan doesn't care for what Hua Cheng did more so how Xie Lian would be received by it.
Wuyong adores Jun Wu. He can do no wrong (despite what former employees claim he had done.) so Shi Qingxuan knows Hua Cheng would not be exactly welcomed with open arms if everyone knew.
"I know you were on business out of town that week, but when he turned down Jun Wu's offer it was quite the scandal. Not even because of what he had said more about how Jun Wu was betting on acquiring the company and the outright no had actually taken a dent in some of the stock due to the perceived failure."
"And Jun Wu, doesn't fail," Shi Qingxuan finishes with a rather ominous tone, looking at Xie Lian. He begins to wonder if that extensive knowledge they seem to have extends to rather well-kept secrets as well.
"Public opinion too already on top of this is skewing a bit. Jun Wu no longer has a pristine image even though he was acquitted of any charges..." Shi Qingxuan gives Xie Lian a particular look then falls into one of their charismatic smiles, "But those aren't matters best discussed here."
The words carefully chosen, are strange with his rather light expression.
"Right," Xie Lian agrees, forcing himself to swallow. He really wants to discuss what happened during that meeting Hua Cheng had with Jun Wu. But he would rather wait for them to be in private.
What got Hua Cheng so upset he chose to offend Jun Wu like that? Hua Cheng is smart, he knows Jun Wu is his boss. He's aware of how to act and what is and isn't acceptable. The more Xie Lian hears the more he believes—no, is sure Jun Wu offended his fiancée in some way where Hua Cheng couldn't take it lying down. Or simply decline in a respectful way.
"Well, Xie Lian," Shi Qingxuan changes the subject, " You look very handsome today, and I like this."
Shi Qingxuan reaches a hand out to touch the metal chain resting on Xie Lian's suit.
"As well as these earrings, you really outdid yourself today!"
Hearing Shi Qingxuan appraisal of him, makes him feel a bit shy, but he's going to just take it. They don't compliment anyone without meaning it.
"This suit, it has to be custom."
"Alright, alright," Xie Lian begs the complimenting cease when Shi Qingxuan takes his hands and begins looking at the detailing on his suit edges.
"No I'm so serious you might be the best looking person here."
If Hua Cheng smiles, no one is looking at him long enough to notice.
"And you sir," Shi Qingxuan says dramatically, looking in Hua Cheng's direction, "Also look amazing, you both are truly a power couple."
"Power couple...?" Xie Lian repeats his voice questioning.
"Xie Lian don't you think he's handsome?"
Great something he can respond to with absolute ease. Complimenting San Lang is the easiest thing he's had to deal with today.
"Of course I think so, and I told him before we left," Remembering how he kissed him abruptly comes to mind, and San Lang's pleading eyes as he said,
"Please."
Woah, that tone was so so clear in his head.
How he so wants to leave right now.
"I would say gege looks far better than I do now," Hua Cheng says causing Xie Lian to look shy once again. They can't go back to him now.
Shi Qingxuan doesn't think he'll ever get to see Xie Lian's fiancée flustered or off-kilter. But it's too easy to embarrass Xie Lian seeing as the man looks a bit shy at Hua Cheng's continued insistence that he's the most-handsome person in the entire venue by miles . That Shi Qingxuan was absolutely right he's the best looking person here.
That if Xie Lian doesn't believe him he should at least believe—
"Stop stop , San Lang," Xie Lian chides, a bit more serious enough that Hua Cheng will actually relent, "Please all you do is tease."
"It's not teasing if it is simply fact," Hua Cheng says, straight laced as ever, but of course a smile edges at the corner of his lips.
"You'd think he'd stop acting new. You guys have been together what, seven years now?"
"We met seven years ago, yes. I don't remember him being so shameless then."
"I had to be very reserved gege, lest I scare you away with my eternal devotion."
Shi Qingxuan makes a face like they want to puke, "Okay okay, I gave you license to tease him but you're literally the worst."
They roll their eyes at Hua Cheng's antics, Xie Lian feels a little relieved at them objecting to this behavior. Maybe he'll actually let up.
"Xie Lian!"
Someone calls and Xie Lian recognizes that voice, it's undoubtedly Feng Xin.
Great, maybe San Lang will chill out now with the words of affection. He can't be that lovey dovey around not-so familiar company.
As he comes to their group, Feng Xin doesn't seem to look at Hua Cheng in even curiosity or interest, like he's barely noticed he was there.
"You look good Xie Lian," Feng Xin comments, and he could count on one hand the amount of times Feng Xin complimented him. If Shi Qingxuan thought he looked good, then he did. If Feng Xin thought he looked good, Xie Lian must be presentable for sure.
"Thank you," Xie Lian says, unsure how to cope with all of this attention on his appearance. Yes, he felt good but also, he was unused to it. He felt like if he tallied up his life most of the time was spent being ignored rather than fawned over and complimented. San Lang was the only one who really started to make him feel like...
"Shi Qingxuan, how are you doing today? Did you just come in?" Feng Xin smoothly continued, Xie Lian still feeling a bit put off Feng Xin didn't bother to ask who San Lang was. He's right here, he's not standing too far away, you can't really be mistaken that he wasn't also talking to Xie Lian and Shi Qingxuan.
"Could you tell?" They ask knowing it was not a secret they just got here.
"It was a guess," Feng Xin shrugs, knowing even mandatory meetings were hard for Shi Qingxuan to show up exactly on time for. Something like this, Shi Qingxuan wouldn't be early ever in their life.
The only reason Shi Qingxuan hasn't been fired is due to nepotism and everyone knows it. Their older brother runs a branch of Wuyong in a different country and has Pei Ming and Ling Wen on their side. Ling Wen, who had a direct line to Jun Wu (allegedly)
It doesn't hurt too that everyone does love having Shi Qingxuan around, their presence makes work just a little bit better. They were nothing if not social.
"Surprised not to see Mu Qing around too. Where is he?"
"The fuck would I know where he is?"
Shi Qingxuan of course only brought up Mu Qing to get this reaction. Merely laughing a bit at Feng Xin's combativeness.
"I don't know, because the two of you are..." Shi Qingxuan doesn't actually say it but the rumors around the office say that the two don't actually hate each other and are in a secret relationship.
Xie Lian personally doesn't think that's true, and isn't one to gossip so he hasn't heard too much about this or why people think this.
"Oh very nice," Feng Xin smiles, entirely fake about it, clearly upset by this, "This joke is getting very old."
"So is the denial."
Hua Cheng of course couldn't care less about what they're on about. He rolls his eyes. He's getting more and more annoyed by this.
Xie Lian only laughs slightly nervously at their antics. Shi Qingxuan is the voice of the people who truly have no tact when it comes to subjects such as these. If Xie Lian was not one to question further and pry, then Shi Qingxuan was the complete opposite.
At this point, he feels like it's been too much time since this conversation started and he hasn't introduced San Lang, so Xie Lian is about to interject but Shi Qingxuan says something instead.
"Feng Xin," Shi Qingxuan saw another opportunity, "What happened to your manners, even Mu Qing is better than you, and he's a downright asshole. Aren't you going to say hello to...?"
Feng Xin, doesn't like the statement that Mu Qing was better than him, but at Shi Qingxuan's words he finds himself humbled.
Shi Qingxuan gestures to Xie Lian and his plus one. The one Shi Qingxuan knows as Hua Cheng, Xie Lian's fiancée, but Feng Xin has yet to be introduced to. Hua Cheng only looks bored at this, but says nothing. He's content only because Xie Lian is close to him. Otherwise he would have walked away from this conversation entirely by now.
"Oh," Feng Xin says dumbfounded. Xie Lian realized he made an honest mistake. Inattentional blindness perhaps?
"I'm sorry." He's more embarrassed for himself thinking it was very rude of him not to even acknowledge this man who was with his coworker.
Xie Lian still has trouble completely believing Feng Xin just didn't see him because Hua Cheng is pretty eye-catching...objectively.
He looks at Hua Cheng and observes his close proximity to Xie Lian but doesn't think much of it. His first thought is that this man must be acquainted with Xie Lian through work. "My name is Feng Xin. I haven't seen you before, are you in a different department?"
Xie Lian just knows San Lang must be thinking something downright devious, so he spoke feeling the need to diffuse something that hasn't even exploded.
"Aha, Feng Xin," Xie Lian addresses, always so polite as he was with everyone and anyone, "This is my husband, he doesn't work here, I brought him here as my plus one."
Saying the word husband has actually gotten much easier after saying it a few times now. Or at least doesn't feel like a lie anyway. But Feng Xin looks between the two of them absolutely astonished.
"I didn't know you were married." Feng Xin says rather shocked. If Xie Lian didn't know better he'd say scandalized is a close name for this expression he's wearing. Did Feng Xin believe him to be a monk or something?!
Xie Lian knows San Lang is so close to saying something.
"You've never heard me mention my partner?" Xie Lian says, not judgemental in any way at Feng Xin's tone, face or choice of words. He may not be a monk or virgin but Shi Qingxuan believed he must have the patience of a saint.
Xie Lian purposefully doesn't talk about himself much, only when prompted, feeling it slightly self-centered to just begin discussing personal matters when no one asked. ( Think : Pei Ming) Yes, he technically wasn't married, and he never mentioned being married before today, but it wasn't a secret he had a partner, a boyfriend.
"...Yes?" Feng Xin says after a moment of consideration, probably trying to think of a specific time. "Rarely."
He concluded on that with more certainty.
"I just...I don't know, I suppose I must have assumed they were like... "
Feng Xin lazily gestured to Shi Qingxuan, then speaks his thought aloud to clarify, "You never said your partner was a 'he.'"
"Does that mean that he wouldn't date a man?" Hua Cheng almost snapped at him, Xie Lian had practically sensed this coming, "I have no idea what you mean by saying this."
"I mean no offense," Feng Xin says, and Xie Lian wished San Lang hadn't spoken but it was only a matter of time, it's a wonder how he hadn't before actually. He really was controlling his impulses and for that Xie Lian should probably be grateful he controlled his tone. Only sounding mildly threatening instead of downright murderous.
"Does it weird you out that I'm gay?" Xie Lian asks, not understanding Feng Xin's uneasiness or hesitance.
Though San Lang can be intimidating for other people who don't know him. His heterochromia, height, and just general demeanor and death stare were one thing. When he was upset with you, he was practically a mafioso come to make you bite the curb.
"No! God of course not, I just didn't—," Feng Xin sighs, stopping his words before he says something inappropriate or digs himself into a hole he can't get out of. Xie Lian knew Feng Xin wouldn't have a problem so it's hard to see him torn up over this slight.
"I'm sorry Xie Lian." He says with such a solemn tone, Feng Xin might as well have bowed , "You aren't one to talk about yourself and I did not realize I might have had my own biases. Apologies."
"Accepted," Xie Lian says, waving him off but appreciative that Feng Xin apologized at all. He didn't expect that.
Partner is an inclusive term, and could mean a man, woman or nonbinary person like Shi Qingxuan. So Feng Xin wasn't wrong to think 'not a man.' It was just the way he acted, it put them all off. Shi Qingxuan only watched in awe while San Lang still looked on the verge of burning Feng Xin to death with his mind or something.
"Strange you've had weird feelings about it considering...." Shi Qingxuan says, Xie Lian knows now that they're definitely not serious about thinking Feng Xin and Mu Qing are dating now. Feng Xin's sorry expression quickly turns angry again and the darker mood is somewhat lifted.
"Oh shut up," He snaps, not unlike Hua Cheng did so earlier. He was more outwardly volatile but felt less dangerous. Almost like a barking chihuahua."I already know what you're insinuating so don't even bother."
Feng Xin turns to fully ignore Shi Qingxuan, turning back to face Xie Lian and Hua Cheng, "I have no problem with you both being married whatsoever. Sorry if I have offended you or made you think otherwise. Could I ask your name?"
It would be weird not to give it now that he directly asked, Xie Lian actually purposefully did not call him Hua Cheng, but San Lang speaks to give the answer.
"Hua Cheng." San Lang gives his name easily, looking down on Feng Xin and seeing the acknowledgement turn to recognition in far too much time to be satisfying.
When he does recognize where he heard that name, his eyes widen almost comically.
"He's not—?"
In the time it took for Xie Lian to clarify that yes, his Hua Cheng was the person many others were discussing at this party, Hua Cheng had brought over drinks for himself, Xie Lian and Shi Qingxuan, and brought a martini glass lined with shrimp as well for Shi Qingxuan upon request.
(A request that Shi Qingxuan genuinely thought Hua Cheng would not seriously fulfill.) He handed it over to them without a word or even a mere look. Shi Qingxuan nodded their thanks.
"He offended our CEO." Feng Xin says, because yes it was true. "And he's your husband."
"Yes."
"And you didn't know?"
"No."
"You really do have impeccable luck." Feng Xin states, looking at him in disbelief. Just as Hua Cheng arrived with the drinks for three and a martini full of shrimp for one.
"I consider it a part of me at this point." Xie Lian says because finding the humor is how you don't cry about things. San Lang might wish him to be a bit more serious about some things sometimes though.
To which Xie Lian would say ' we both have things to work on.'
"Are you just going around introducing him and acting like—" He doesn't know why Feng Xin is more stressed about this than he is. Xie Lian takes a sip of his mocktail, it's kind of peachy and rather interesting. He had just told Hua Cheng to surprise him with something. His fiancee already knew he avoided alcohol, it always put him in a bad place.
"I mean, he doesn't have to know. We will be lucky if he even shows up anyway." Xie Lian might still be coping.
"He is." Feng Xin confirms. "Ling Wen has already gotten word, his plane landed an hour ago. He's sure to be here any minute."
"Oh." Xie Lian says helpfully, "Well, it doesn't matter. I'll just introduce him by another name."
"Sure." Feng Xin says, not having energy for this drama, "I'm going to go, you deal with this mess however you wish. No one has to hear anything from me."
"Are you going to find Mu Qing?"
"Don't you mess with me." Feng Xin says pointedly to Shi Qingxuan, Xie Lian resists a laugh.
"Just asking."
"...Yes. I'm going to find Mu Qing but only because I haven't seen him all evening. It's strange he's...he's not the type that wouldn't show up without notice. At least telling Ling Wen or..."
"Hm, I suppose you're right, it's more expected for Shi Qingxuan to not show up than Mu Qing." Xie Lian acknowledges and they don't take offense. It was true.
"I'm going to look around for him, I'm sure he's here somewhere."
"Alright," Xie Lian says, sensing San Lang's impatience, "We'll continue to mingle."
And I'll get ready.
Before Feng Xin really leaves though,
"Wait, Xie Lian...are you going to be one of the highlighted speakers tonight? I just remembered to ask you."
"Yes," Xie Lian finds himself answering rather grimly. Feng Xin doesn't catch it, Xie Lian hopes San Lang didn't catch it but that would be uncharacteristic of him.
"Congratulations! You know you've really come so far, I was certain Jun Wu will make note of that."
He was scouted right out of college, and worked as an intern for minimum wage for so long. Working overtime without pay to fulfill the work that was requested of him without question. Simply because he couldn't deal with getting fired for failing and losing his job. Thinking back on that toxic work ethic and how it got him this position today...he really wished he could tell his younger self to take it easy or ask for help once in a while.
But thinking about it, has much really changed? Yes he was in a better place now, not as desperate financially and he had San Lang with him for support.
"Yes I hope so." He smiles as he says it, feeling rather sick. Feng Xin smiles back at him.
"I'll see you afterward then?" He asks and Xie Lian can only nod and wave goodbye.
"Come on, gege," San Lang pulls insistently when Feng Xin leaves, "I'm sure you would like to introduce me to someone else?"
He's asking but for some reason it doesn't seem like it's a suggestion. Xie Lian lets himself be pulled toward the less crowded areas.
"Where...?" He starts to ask, seeing San Lang pull him away from the party.
Completely.
They've come to a hallway away from the main hall, there were likely bathrooms and other rooms around but they only speak in the hallway.
Blue carpet stretches far to another entryway, baroque accents on the walls and baseboards and large acrylic paintings are spaced out, a cold blue hue seems to encapsulate everything. It's more simplistic, less decorated than the main hall which had silver, gold, white, and a deep dark blue used as an accent.
It's not the most intimate setting for a conversation of sensitive nature, but still, Hua Cheng is so very close.
"Xie Lian," San Lang says his name sternly and it sounds almost like a question. He's grabbing his attention but that expression...
San Lang being worried is worrying him.
"Yes, what's wrong?" He asks, knowing it would only be a matter of time before San Lang sensed something was off. He thought he'd do a better job of hiding it.
"What's wrong? You're asking me... ?" San Lang sighs and tilts his head, it makes Xie Lian feel smaller being at the brunt of his focus like this. But San Lang's focus is never domineering, it's entirely protective.
"I am noticing there's something you aren't telling me."
"I could have said the same thing earlier." Xie Lian says with a bit more defense than necessary.
"I'm serious."
"So am I."
"Please," San Lang pleads, but it's so very different from earlier that night. This please is so much more desperate. Raw. "Don't avoid me. What's wrong? Tell me."
"Nothing," The lie is much harder when San Lang looks at him so earnestly. He always wants to fix what is wrong. But this wasn't something he could fix.
"I just..." he clenches his jaw, unable to really voice his issue.
Truly nothing happened. Yes, his boss makes him uncomfortable, but expressing why would be so trivial. And Jun Wu hasn't and likely won't actually do anything. Plus if Xie Lian said any of this in the company of people who could hear it...
It's too risky. Xie Lian is good at his job, he earned his way here, more than earned it. He can't risk...being fired now. Not when he's in a secure place.
"I'll tell you later," Xie Lian says, hoping that's enough. Knowing he's using his own power over San Lang now. "I promise, when the party's over I will talk to you. Just let me...let me do my job."
San Lang steps back, but it feels like a much further distance crossed between them.
"You know I'll do whatever you ask." He says so but it feels bitter instead of reverent. It stings like a phantom stab wound right to his heart.
"Let's go back," Xie Lian says, unsatisfied with how he used his word against him so easily. Yes he was making San Lang back off, and making him worry unnecessarily. But he can't talk about what was truly bothering him here and he can't lie. Not about this.
So his only option was to delay.
San Lang takes a breath and Xie Lian can easily tell he's still worried. Despite this, San Lang now tries to change the subject as they re-enter.
"So your speech," Xie Lian can tell he's really trying. "Do you feel adequately prepared?"
"Yes, and San Lang knows I'm good at speeches."
"I do know that." He pauses, "You know I wondered why you wanted me to accompany you today," San Lang says and Xie Lian worries they are going to get back to the subject from before. But San Lang only smiles softly, "I see you need your husband here for moral support."
"San Lang..." Xie Lian says helplessly as Hua Cheng leans in close enough to let their lips almost kiss. It embarrassed him slightly because anyone could be watching them right now.
Hua Cheng's eyes seem to ask for something, an answer . An answer that Xie Lian can't give right now.
Xie Lian breaks the tense closeness by imposing distance as his weapon.
When he looks up, past San Lang, his eyes meet the face he so very much did not want to see tonight.
The CEO of Wuyong, Jun Wu.
When their eyes meet, Jun Wu's expression turns into an easy smile, "Xianle."
When Jun Wu calls him Xianle, it sounds endearing to anyone else. Perhaps a nickname?
But Xie Lian knew why Jun Wu called him that. It's a reminder.
Xianle, was the name of his father's failed project. Before he died, the company had failed and they lost everything. The comfortable youth Xie Lian enjoyed became nothing and he was orphaned before he even reached adulthood.
Jun Wu calls him Xianle, because one afternoon he called Xie Lian to his office. On the surface this was a recent report, but Jun Wu quickly began asking him personal questions. Where was he from, who were his parents, what were they like? What did they do?
Xie Lian answered as though it were an interview. Short, and vague, but Jun Wu seemed to know all this information already.
"Didn't your father have a company? The name...sounded familiar."
"Yes sir."
"Do you remember what the company was called?"
"Xianle, sir."
"Reminds me of your name. Xie, Lian."
He said his name like he held power in every syllable.
Everytime he hears Xianle now he can't help but feel like some of his privacy was violated. Like the past was being brung up against his will and made fun of.
Upon seeing the tall man come closer, his blood turned to ice in his veins. San Lang's hold on his arm tightens in response like he can feel his own anxiety pouring out from him. Xie Lian doesn't even want to imagine what he might be thinking about his reaction. So he forces himself to react normally immediately as though nothing strange had happened at all. But he knew San Lang must have noticed his instinctive reaction.
"Hello, sir." Xie Lian says politely. "Everyone has been awaiting your arrival."
"I see that," Jun Wu says, eyeing him curiously, "But I didn't see you until just now. Did you two just arrive?"
"No. We have been here." Xie Lian says without need to elaborate further. He notes that it seemed San Lang was not invisible since Jun Wu acknowledged him easily.
"Hm," Jun Wu says, leaving enough time to ask his next question. "Who might this be with you?"
San Lang had released Xie Lian's arm once he had started speaking. Now he's a step or two away from Xie Lian giving him enough space but won't step away for long.
"My husband," Xie Lian says almost curtly for the first time. Purposefully not saying his name. It isn't accepted well.
"Well Xianle's husband... " Jun Wu pointedly says. "I'm sure you could give us a moment to speak?"
Hua Cheng is about to say no , but Xie Lian gives him a look. He mouths something and Hua Cheng takes it as an order. Staying still when Xie Lian steps forward.
It pains him to listen but he will.
"I'll be back soon, talk to Shi Qingxuan," Xie Lian suggests knowing his fiancée won't take it.
"Come Xianle," Jun Wu orders, and Xie Lian follows. Jun Wu thankfully only leads him to the bar. Everyone can see Jun Wu and see Xie Lian with him.
But any spectators were far enough away that none of their conversation could be heard. No one would dare approach their boss so closely without express permission. So Xie Lian's uneasy feeling didn't settle.
" That ," Jun Wu says, gesturing with a freshly poured glass, "Isn't your husband."
"Yes, he is." Xie Lian defends.
"No. I know you aren't married, and even if you eloped, one who did so wouldn't look so uneasy about their lie if it were true."
"Fine. But he's my fiancée. So we are about to be."
"Sure," Jun Wu says with such a charismatic smile anyone who saw them would think this is merely a friendly conversation. Xie Lian fixes his expression in turn.
"Hua Cheng..." Jun Wu says to Xie Lian's shock, "I admire your effort to keep his name from me. But I knew what he looked like the same day he denied me his little company."
Jun Wu's tone is dangerous and he speaks like a man who has run out of patience.
"You bringing him here is so audacious I can only assume you didn't know until today."
"No," He confessed, "I didn't."
"I believe it." Jun Wu assures, then seems to think something over. Or rather look him over. That look in his eyes makes Xie Lian want to scratch at his own skin.
He says nothing, trying to resist the urge to look for San Lang in the crowd. He must be nearby watching them.
"Are you ready for your speech tonight?"
Jun Wu gestures to the bartender, then quietly asks for another drink. When the bartender comes over the drink is pushed in Xie Lian's vicinity. He feels it is not a suggestion or a kindness.
But he delays taking a sip anyway. He isn't a fan of alcohol. Not that a man like Jun Wu would know or care about his preferences.
"Yes sir, I am ready." He answers, trying to keep his tone professional still despite his discomfort. He's had practice.
Xie Lian had memorized a speech for once completely from start to finish. He will do his best to make it seem as natural as possible. Like the words were freshly out of his head. He's confident he could do a good job. Especially since it literally meant his job was on the line if he didn't do a good job.
San Lang didn't make enough money for the both of them. His business was bleeding money as it was and he could only afford to give his few employees a salary and whatever his portion was he poured right back into his business.
Selling was a good option but Jun Wu must have offended his fiancée so much that he couldn't live with himself if he didn't refuse. Xie Lian wonders...what must have gone down. He doesn't want to ask Jun Wu, but seeing as the man is here in front of him.
"What happened, to make Hua Cheng deny your offer?" He finds himself asking, knowing if Jun Wu gets upset by this there wasn't much he could do. He could choose not to answer.
"Have a drink with me and I'll answer," Jun Wu says, and Xie Lian knew he was going to ask him to take a sip anyway. It was clear, but definitely not water.
Xie Lian takes a sip, hesitantly but it's good enough for Jun Wu. Jun Wu had also taken a sip of his drink as well. The CEO favors darker liquor.
"That expression," Jun Wu notes, tone making Xie Lian's heart constrict in fear, "Truly amuses me Xianle."
The expression of discomfort probably with having to drink something he didn't want. Or the fact he was just uncomfortable in general being in Jun Wu's close vicinity.
San Lang I'm sorry. Sorry for making him watch this and only imagining what must be going on.
Jun Wu leans back a little, the bartender takes his glass away now that he's finished with it. Xie Lian wants to tell him to take his as well but he leaves it alone.
"Your husband," Jun Wu says, with a click of his tongue expressing much more than distaste, "Didn't like what I had to say about a nameless former employee."
"Nameless former employee," Xie Lian muses mostly to himself. Who would San Lang possibly care about to defend—
Oh!
Yin Yu , of course! Xie Lian never worked with Yin Yu, but San Lang knew him before Yin Yu got a job here. Xie Lian and Yin Yu had worked at Wuyong for several years before he had quit abruptly and worked with Hua Cheng's startup.
Hua Cheng didn't say he poached Yin Yu but that's sort of what happened. That's also why Hua Cheng feels responsible for making sure their business was a success for making Yin Yu's trust in him worthwhile.
Yin Yu was an intern and with the territory came being overworked as Xie Lian can personally attest. But if Jun Wu mentioned him he wasn't as nameless of an employee Jun Wu claimed.
"He said something like someone who couldn't speak about his employees, former or current, didn't deserve to acquire his company, among other things."
"I was more upset that he wasted my time rather than his reaction. I fired the analytics person who suggested this to me and surely they're unable to find a job anywhere now."
He's amused by that. Xie Lian knows his sadistic nature would make sure that person never found a job again. The thought of him being in the position...he's sure Jun Wu hoped he'd think of himself that way by saying that too.
So cruel. Xie Lian finds himself thinking.
"If there's nothing else you wanted to discuss with me then..." He's at the breaking point now, all he wants is San Lang near him.
"Sit down." Jun Wu orders, just as Xie Lian was going to push himself off the chair to leave.
"I didn't say you could go. Aren't we having a pleasant conversation?"
Xie Lian feels like he might be sick.
"Say something."
"Yes sir."
"Good."
Praise coming from his mouth feels like acid on his skin.
San Lang, San Lang, he calls out in his mind. As if he could even hear.
"I just wanted to speak to make sure you were going to follow through on my request. But I realized we don't talk nearly as much as I would like, after all I'm so busy."
Jun Wu reaches a hand to take a strand of Xie Lian's hair.
The movement makes him freeze. Hopefully it isn't taken the wrong way by anyone who may be looking at them. Ever since he was promoted pretty quickly, certain rumors have not escaped him. Some think he had done some things to catch the eye of the Jun Wu. Xie Lian doesn't bother to even think of those rumors and anyone who actually knows him knows he doesn't even see Jun Wu nearly enough for that to be true.
But Xie Lian thinks, for just a moment. Does Jun Wu want people to believe those rumors are true? That they've done things together that haven't happened?
The thought again makes him want to throw up. He keeps his composure. He's dealt with worse, he's dealt with worse...
He has San Lang. San Lang himself has dealt with worse.
This was nothing.
"Your hair is so soft Xianle. And you look so pretty today. If I was your husband I wouldn't let you leave the house looking like that before I—"
"Please don't touch me." Xie Lian says firmly. Unable to hear anymore of that. Why is Jun Wu being much more bold today? Much more...predatory.
"I don't like when people touch my hair."
Jun Wu takes his hand back, "Did I strike a nerve. Are you angry with me Xianle?"
The nickname Jun Wu has called him for so long always triggers him. A feeling of self-loathing for accepting it so easy always takes him over. It's another way of Jun Wu's control to sink into him.
Xie Lian doesn't deign his last question with a real answer. Because anger doesn't matter, Jun Wu does what he wants.
"I think we should take this conversation behind the stage, no?" Jun Wu says, standing, he says it like he's giving Xie Lian space to say no. When he knows that isn't the case. Again, it's an order.
"Okay." Xie Lian says, happy to be on his feet, but not happy to be led away from the crowd and away from San Lang. his eyes can't find San Lang quick enough before they're behind the stage.
The curtain divides them from the party. There's a band playing some music but soon enough they will shuffle out, letting Jun Wu give his speech. This is toward the middle of the party already, and then Jun Wu will call Xie Lian to the stage to say his piece.
Xie Lian follows Jun Wu, three steps behind, counting carefully. When they are hidden behind the curtain, Jun Wu grabs Xie Lian's wrist with force.
"I've been easy with you but you don't get to say what you do or do not like."
Jun Wu says, twisting, not enough to be truly painful. But enough to strike fear in his heart.
Xie Lian remains speechless as he gasps, Jun Wu has never ever been so forward before tonight. Clearly something has made him upset and want to assert his authority.
Was it the fact that Xie Lian brought San Lang here? Called him his husband? Did Jun Wu think he really had—
"Tell me what I want to hear Xianle." Jun Wu says, and Xie Lian doesn't know what that is. What could he possibly—
He's had enough of the silence and says so himself.
"You are mine," Jun Wu says, "I could make your life so much more difficult. Do what I say, indulge me once in a while and nothing has to happen."
Indulge him? What could he possibly mean?
Xie Lian is still completely dazed. He doesn't even know what to say or how to react. The instinctive reaction he had to freeze seems to have taken over his mind as well. His arm is limp in Jun Wu's hold.
Xie Lian hears someone speak over the microphone, and Jun Wu lets go.
"I've run out of time, but I will come find you afterwards."
A threat and a promise. When Jun Wu goes back to the stage through the curtain, Xie Lian finally finally has room to breathe.
It's like his heart had to restart.
No no no no no. He cannot give a speech praising his deranged boss after that. He can't.
"San Lang." He whispers to himself. "Hua Cheng."
He repeats his name over and over in his mind. Calming him down like one would count numbers.
Breathe in, his voice in his mind as he's calmed his own husband— fiancée down before as well.
He takes a deep shaky breath in, calming himself, it works for the most part. Xie Lian can hear Jun Wu's voice clearly. He's making fucking jokes now.
Breathe out.
He pulls his phone from his pants pocket, and sees San Lang has texted.
Where are you?
Only one text, sent a minute ago Xie Lian answers and he sees San Lang was about to send another.
Behind the curtain, I'm preparing my speech.
No he absolutely isn't. But he doesn't want San Lang to worry at all. Later...he said he will tell him later. Now there was much more to tell him than before.
'I could make your life so much more difficult.'
He feels the wave of a panic attack incoming. He silences it by holding his breath, then taking a deep inhale. He convinces himself nothing bad is going to happen.
He doesn't want to give the speech even more than before, but now that he is calm he will. He has more stakes than his own pride here. Jun Wu wouldn't really do anything, he just likes that control he has over him. That fear he finds amusing knowing he could.
But if he were ever to do such a thing...then Xie Lian would really have the evidence he needed to make a case against Jun Wu. Certainly with these accusations against him he couldn't risk it.
That sound reasoning he would have said earlier that day doesn't remain so sound when he thinks of the looks Jun Wu has given him at the bar, and then the twist of his wrist just now. The threat.
Maybe he really was that crazy. That deranged that he'd do something like that anyway. Despite his image crumbling.
No.
Surely not.
He's not a...
Xie Lian has known Jun Wu for years. If he was going to, he would have tried by now. As fucked as that sounds.
"And now, I want to call upon a very esteemed employee of mine. I'm certain some of you may know him..."
" Xie Lian , the new Head of our Marketing Department."
Xie Lian steps to the stage, waving like he's experienced nothing bad at all.
*
Starving was not something Xie Lian could easily endure. It made him desperate. Desperation, he learned, was desirable. Easy to manipulate.
Xie Lian wondered before his speech if Jun Wu knew about that. If he knew and that's why he was targeted. Because Xie Lian will debase himself and forget pride to protect others and ensure he won't suffer as much as he did in the past.
Memories come to the surface when Xie Lian thinks about Jun Wu's grip on his arm, his forceful tone and command. He saw Xie Lian like he wasn't a person, merely a tool to control.
San Lang is his safe space. The man who makes him feel like the happiest person alive, who treats him like he's special and deserving of anything he could ever want. The way San Lang undoubtedly adores him, assures Xie Lian in a way he's never known before.
Truly San Lang treats him like a god. Xie Lian feels he never deserved that kind of reverence. But he will protect it, even if it means making himself a little uncomfortable. It was nothing, if he could assure his future husband's safety and happiness.
How would Hua Cheng look at him, if he knew just how low he could sink?
How easily he could lie? How dark his thoughts could truly get?
His body is on the elevated step stage, his mouth is moving in practiced cadence but the world feels unreal. He's unable to find San Lang in the crowd. Not knowing where he was made him uneasy. He didn't think anything would happen but...
"Jun Wu is a mentor to me..."
The words coming out of his mouth aren't real. But the faces in the crowd seem content, and believing, which was the ultimate goal. He almost breathes a sigh of relief when he's finally done.
He finished with a bow, and a characteristically graceful exit. When he's out of sight he walks then runs through the hallways to find a bathroom.
He doesn't even realize what is going to happen before it does.
He throws up the contents of what he ate and drank over the course of the party. He was feeling bouts of nausea all day but this...
This was awful.
Someone steps in after him.
He doesn't want to leave the stall to find who it is. Especially not if it's Jun Wu who came after him. God—
"Xie Lian?" It's Shi Qingxuan who slowly taps on the door. "Did you finish your speech? I didn't get to see all of it. Unfortunately I had to pee so bad, but then I saw you running back here, are you okay?"
No, absolutely not.
"I'm fine." He answers, voice kind of weaker than he wanted it to be. He doesn't want Shi Qingxuan to worry. Or anyone to worry, really. But there is one person he could use right now.
"Do you think you could find San Lang for me?"
"Yeah no problem!" They say, eager to help, and happy to be given something to do. Xie Lian does actually want to see San Lang, but he also wanted to put off having anyone near him for at least a few minutes. He just wants to be alone for a few to compose himself.
He rinses his mouth with water from the sink, feeling disgusting but better. He looks at himself in the mirror. It's so large, and crystal clear, there isn't anything to be disguised when he's alone.
On the outside, he still looks picture perfect, only his eyes look tired.
And his hair...is out of place. It bothers him a lot when it normally wouldn't. He closes his eyes, fighting the urge to...he doesn't even know. Fix it? Break down again?
The image of himself isn't easily escaped, he sees it even when he closes his eyes.
White his mother had said so many years ago, is a good color for you, Xie Lian. My son is so pure of heart.
She wrapped her white silk scarf around him, it felt so big back then, now it was only a square that could be folded and fit into his suit pocket.
He rubs at his face after washing his hands. Looking down at the sink like it has the answers to all of his problems.
The creak of the door alerts him that he's no longer alone, he looks up to meet San Lang's concerned eyes.
"Xie Lian? Are you alright? Are you sick?"
Shi Qingxuan is quiet right behind him waiting for an answer.
"I just...I just want to go home," He says, without even thinking, wanting to wrap himself in San Lang's embrace. "I'm tired just tell—"
' I'll come find you afterwards.'
Jun Wu's voice creeps in his head, a paralyzing reminder.
Oh right. He's supposed to stay.
"Okay let's go home." San Lang says without objection, he was likely quite eager to leave already and if Xie Lian wasn't feeling alright he was perfectly fine leaving now. He'll make him some tea, something easy for his stomach to digest for dinner, and maybe—
"Actually," Xie Lian backtracks, forcing himself to sound less tired is much harder than normal, " I think I feel fine, just needed to splash water on my face. I think I'm okay."
Hua Cheng is not convinced whatsoever.
"Don't force yourself to stay, I'm sure everyone would understand." Shi Qingxuan says trying to be helpful.
"I'm not forcing, I'm fine." Xie Lian says. San Lang looks at him merely looking like he's calculating something or trying to figure out a puzzle.
Instead of saying anything he quickly grabs Xie Lian's wrist. His hold is gentle but still firm.
"San Lang what—?" This is the second time today San Lang is leading him somewhere without prompting.
"We are going home. I'm telling everyone you puked your brains out because apparently you did." He seems angry. Xie Lian made him angry. Great.
"Look, I can stay. You can..."
"I'm not leaving you here, by yourself." San Lang is angry, but never at Xie Lian. He gives Shi Qingxuan a look, to which they leave, and stand by the door. Hua Cheng is grateful they didn't need it explained to them that the two needed privacy.
"What's going on that you aren't telling me? Is it later yet? Can we speak now?"
"I said after the party." Xie Lian is firm in his stance, and Hua Cheng is not used to this stubbornness being applied to him so harshly. Usually he's able to break down those walls Xie Lian puts up with only minimal coaxing. It hurts to be locked out like this from the man he gives everything of himself to. Hua Cheng expects nothing in return for giving his entire heart, but it hurts anyway to feel like he isn't trusted. Like him trying to help isn't good enough.
But it wasn't about trust or San Lang's competence at all.
"I know what you..."
San Lang takes another breath he never wants to be mad at Xie Lian but right now it was hard to stay calm when his fiancée so clearly was bothered by something. He doesn't like not knowing what the problem is. He has an idea, but he needs Xie Lian to actually say it aloud. If he doesn't know, he can't fix it, then he's fucking useless.
It's worthless if he's not useful in some capacity.
He thinks of Xie Lian's sometimes self-destructive behavior. He thinks on his own. What might make Xie Lian want to shut him out? What has he learned from this evening thus far? What has Xie Lian himself done to deter Hua Cheng from his own destructive habits?
He has a moment of clarity.
"You know what? No." Hua Cheng says, stopping his earlier train of thought. Knowing if he does this wrong it could cause a rift, but he choses Xie Lian's happiness and safety always , "I'm taking over, we are going home."
"You aren't—-"
"You're right, I'm not in control of you. I could never be but I'm making an executive decision because it seems you can't make it yourself at the moment. And maybe us going home will lead me to know what's wrong from your own mouth. Since you can't tell me here."
For some reason Xie Lian is too tired and too stunned to fight him.
It's not even fighting, Hua Cheng is only concerned, and Xie Lian does want to leave more than anything right now.
"Okay," He relents walking with him out the door. "Bye Shi Qingxuan, see you later."
"See you, get some rest."
Xie Lian doesn't even look at Shi Qingxuan's expression when he leaves, the only person in his sight is San Lang.
*
The drive home is a silent one.
Xie Lian and Hua Cheng were always able to sit in a comfortable silence with each other, but Xie Lian only felt ashamed of himself.
For making San Lang worry, for being so weak that he couldn't hide his own discomfort well enough. He's thankful that San Lang isn't questioning him now. He is liking the time he's getting, to sit in his thoughts.
But he also wished he didn't feel this heavy weight of emotions.
When they return home, San Lang still doesn't speak. It's reminiscent of a different time.
A different day, where San Lang had felt unable to speak out of his own shame and discomfort himself. How Xie Lian had to give him questions so his love could only answer with a nod, yes or no. Hands in his hair combing through the knots like one would pages in a book. Softly, gently.
Ah, San Lang, Xie Lian mused, you're so good to me.
When they get home it's still quiet. He sheds his expensive clothes like a second skin, taking a shower as if it could wash all his emotions away. San Lang gives him space, he always knew when to do that.
When he comes back out, hair washed and body clean, he puts on his clothes alone in his room in silence. Looking at his face in the mirror for a third time today.
Earlier this evening, he was a picturesque version of himself. The very best, the ideal.
Then in the bathroom, a rougher-edged sword, tired and complacent.
Now he's washed clean of his pretenses. Here he saw exactly who he was.
San Lang steps in. He's just finished showering as well, but he hasn't yet put on his clothes, still in a towel. He's looking at Xie Lian almost in wonder and maybe even concern.
He comes to hug Xie Lian from behind, Xie Lian is graced with the image of Hua Cheng's face in the space of his neck and shoulder through the mirror. Hua Cheng seems to breathe in his scent softly, Xie Lian doesn't need to concentrate to smell the familiar floral scent of San Lang.
He lets himself close his eyes and settle into his embrace. He's strong, and it's such a simple thing, but he softly cries right there, and Hua Cheng doesn't let him go, not until Xie Lian pushes his hands away gently to make him pull away.
"Do you want to speak now?"
Hua Cheng asks, his voice soft, and there's always room for more, for a no.
"Okay," Xie Lian says so softly he might as well have mouthed the word and not made any sound at all.
*
Author's Note:
This took me all of October to write, and it's finally finished. I hope you enjoyed this one! I definitely put the most effort so far here.
I'll probably comment *here* to say what I think happens after this oneshot ends. It was in my head but I didn't want to actually write it out. This became long enough. I know if I didn't finish/edit and post this today it would have sat in my drafts for much longer than I would have liked.
I hope you have a good day, and thanks for reading! :)