Chapter Text
Despite the obvious elation Ziyuan feels about Jiang Cheng’s new beau, and A-Xian’s newfound support of Lan Xichen (which came from A-Cheng and A-Xian mending their relationship), Jiang Fengmian still maintains his reservations. In his defence, he just spent the last couple of months eating, breathing and sleeping battle tactics to fend off Lan Xichen while imagining him to be the worse of scoundrels, the most villainous of villains, the sneakiest of perverts. It’s rather hard to just let go all of that animosity, one sided that it may be, in one fell swoop.
Even if it’s for something as sacred as maintaining the peace during Yu Ziyuan’s Special Sunday Brunch.
“I don’t understand,” Yu Ziyuan says to him on Sunday morning as she fiddles with the flower arrangement that will become one of the centerpieces at the table. “A-Cheng told us the reason why Lan Xichen was able to find him. Why are you still so suspicious? Can you pass me those tulips?”
Jiang Fengmian does as he’s told and passes the bouquet of pink tulips to his wife. “It’s not that I don’t trust A-Cheng,” he grumbles, keeping his voice low. His children are in the next room, bickering over something or other, and it will do him no good if A-Cheng overhears him. “It’s just that I can’t simply dismiss all my previous suspicions. Besides, there is still something about that Lan boy that irks me.”
“Maybe, you should stop calling him ‘Lan boy’ as a first step of letting go of your animosity.” Ziyuan’s response is as dry as the Sahara Desert. “But let’s hear it. What else are you dissatisfied about Lan Xichen? You may as well air all of your grievances now before the Lans show up.”
“The Lans?” Jiang Fengmian gives Ziyuan a questioning look as he hands her a fresh vase. “Who else is coming aside from Lan Xichen?”
“Lan Xichen’s younger brother Lan Wangji is also making an appearance. The gremlin had begged for him to be invited as well. Something about ‘not wanting to be the only person at the table stuck in single dog hell’, whatever that means.” Ziyuan rolls her eyes. “So dramatic, that boy. I’m surprised Lan Wangji even accepted the invite.”
So does Jiang Fengmian. He doesn’t think he’ll ever understand the bizarre friendship between his chaotic son and the prim and proper second Lan, but he’s getting off topic.
“I just,” he shrugs a little helplessly, “I don’t like Lan Xichen. I don’t like how well he hides his intentions. I don’t like his façade.”
“His façade?”
“He’s always so,” Jiang Fengmian makes a face, “pleasant.”
“Really? Pleasant? That’s what irks you?”
“He withstood weeks of A-Xian being at his most obnoxious and is still pleasant,” Jiang Fengmian points out flatly. “Tell me, how is that not suspicious?”
That actually gives Ziyuan a pause. “He is famed for his excellent temperament,” she reminds him, but the slight uncertainty in her tone brings him the sweetest feeling of vindication. “We just need to get to know him a bit better to get a better sense of his personality.”
“He’ll slip up. Just you wait.”
It takes the next couple of hours plus the involvement of all the staff in the Manor to have everything arranged according to Yu Ziyuan’s exacting standards. A long, elegant table has been set up in the sun room, draped in fine white table cloth, and decorated with large vases of fresh tulips at both ends. Porcelain plates and silverware, shined to a sparkle, are placed along the length of the table in neat sets in front of white rattan chairs, spaced apart to allow the perfect amount of elbow room for each diner. Greeneries of all sorts, from small delicate ferns to large potted trees, fill the once empty corners of the room, transforming the spartan space into a veritable, lush garden.
Ziyuan takes her Sunday brunches very seriously.
This fact must have been relayed to the Lans as well because fifteen minutes before the scheduled time, they arrive to the door, dressed to the nines like they’re attending an outdoor wedding, and bearing gifts.
“Thank you for your kind invitation, Ms. Yu, Mr. Jiang,” Lan Xichen says with his usual gentle smile after he and his blank-faced brother are ushered into the house. The gifts have also been carefully received with thanks, and were whisked away by servants. “You have such a lovely home. The architecture in particular is absolutely stunning. I love how bright and open everything is!”
Ziyuan positively preens. Jiang Fengmian despairs at how quickly his wife is capitulating. “Mr. Lan, you are too kind,” she says. “I should be the one thanking you for keeping an eye out on A-Cheng. I hope neither him nor Wei Wuxian is giving you too much trouble. A-Xian especially can be a bit energetic.”
Unexpectedly, it’s Lan Wangji who speaks up. “No trouble at all,” he says in his usual monotone voice. “A-Ying is A-Ying. He is…” a pause, as if Lan Wangji is carefully deliberating his words, “harmless.”
Jiang Fengmian supposes that that is high praises from Lan Wangji. The way Lan Xichen is looking at his brother in pleasant surprise seems to suggest so.
“Aww, did you hear that, A-Cheng? Zhan-Zhan does like me!” comes A-Xian’s voice from the hallway.
“He’ll probably like you more if you stop calling him that obnoxious nickname.”
The two Lans perk up at the sight of A-Xian and A-Cheng approaching them. Lan Xichen’s smile becomes noticeably brighter. Even Lan Wangji’s gaze softens.
“Good morning, Xicheng-ge, Lan Wangji,” A-Cheng greets when he and A-Xian reach the lobby. “Thank you for coming. I hope you were able to find us okay.”
Unlike the Lans, who donned well-fitted, casual suits in soft greys and blues, A-Cheng and A-Xian have opted for something that’s more their usual aesthetic. A-Xian has on a red and black plaid shirt shrugged over a thin, grey t-shirt with a v-neck that dips just a smidge lower than wholly appropriate. His trademark dark jeans also makes its usual appearance, though sans rips because it’s the Sunday brunch and Ziyuan would’ve had his head if he looked too much like a ruffian. It’s also for that reason that his hair is neatly combed for once.
A-Cheng similarly defaults to his preference for soft, formless clothing. Today, he’s chosen to wear his oversized cable knit cardigan in grey purple; the sleeves are so long that he has to roll them up several times just for his hands to poke through. His softness is amplified by the pair of light grey, cropped chinos, and those blasted glasses that Jiang Fengmian knows attract perverts to him like sharks to blood in the open seas.
Jiang Fengmian’s suspicious gaze naturally slides to the older Lan out of habit. Annndd as expected, there they are: the slight catching of breath, the soft pink dusting on pale cheeks, the way his eyes widen, all the physical signs showing that the Lan boy is far from immune to A-Cheng’s charm. Just like any other pervert who laid eyes on his youngest.
But unlike those perverts, Lan Xichen’s composure holds up rather admirably. How vexing.
“Good morning, Wanyin,” Lan Xichen coughs a little before replying, “we did not experience any issues getting here at all, thank you for asking.” He turns to A-Xian, “Thank you for thinking of Wangji and extending the invite to him.”
A-Xian waves away the thanks. “A-Jie always says that good food should be shared! Besides, us single dogs have to stick together!” He winks at the silent Lan Wangji. “Speaking of, Lan Zhan, you have to meet A-jie, she’s the best! She makes the best pork rib and lotus root soup in the world!” Without another second wasted, he grabs Lan Wangji by the wrist and pulls him towards the direction of the sun room in an excited flurry.
“I’ve been asking her to teach me how to make all these recipes, but for some reason, she keeps banishing me from the kitchen. Maybe you can convince her – ” Wei Wuxian’s voice trails on, not even stopping for Lan Wangji’s flustered cry of, “Wei Ying!”
Such a strange, strange friendship A-Xian has with Lan Wangji.
A-Cheng rolls his eyes. “I guess that’s our cue to follow along. Xichen-ge, right this way, please. Brunch is in the sun room.”
The meal itself is divine – a generous variety of meats, cereals, fruits and egg dishes are available to the diners, each prepared with care and cooked to perfection.
The overall experience, however, has got to the most surreal thing Jiang Fengmian has lived through in his near 50 years of being alive. It almost feels like he’s entered into the Twilight Zone.
Everybody is on their absolute best behaviour. Everybody.
There is no yelling. At all.
A-Cheng and Ziyuan have not snarked at A-Xian, distracted as they are in their conversation with Lan Xichen. A little too distracted for Jiang Fengmian’s liking; he can occasionally catch the sound of Ziyuan tittering, (tittering!), the delighted chuckles from A-Cheng, and the answering murmurs of that Lan boy.
Jiang Fengmian is also trying real hard to ignore all those little glances his youngest and the Lan boy steal from each other when they think Ziyuan is not looking (she is. She always is), or the way his son’s lips are curled into a soft, shy smile throughout the entire meal.
Likewise, A-Xian has not made a single snide comment towards A-Li’s peacock fiancé. His attention is firmly planted on Lan Wangji, oscillating between teasing him ruthlessly with ridiculous nicknames and plying him with all the food on the table.
“Lan-er gege,” Jiang Fengmian hears his oldest son say in the most saccharine voice, and he instantly feels sorry for the poor second Lan, because that tone spells nothing but trouble. “I know you like sweet things! Have you tried these crêpes? They’re cooked in the most amazing butter maple syrup! Here, have some, have some! And these oranges. So sweet, but not as sweet as you!”
“A-Xian,” A-Li says, exasperated but amused while Jin Zixuan cringes from his side of the table, “stop teasing our guest. Let Mr. Lan enjoy his breakfast.”
A-Xian blinks wide innocent eyes at Yanli. He’s fooling no one. “Eh? I’m not teasing him, A-jie! I just want to show him all the things I thought he’d like! I’m being a good host, isn’t that right, gege?”
“Hm. Do not mind,” Lan Wangji mumbles into his plate, the tell-tale glow of his ears giving away his embarrassment. Then, to everyone’s surprise, he spears a large piece of crêpe with his fork and unceremoniously pops it into his mouth, chewing on it with the solemnity of a soldier ordered to enter the battlefield.
“So, so?” Wei Wuxian nudges Lan Wangji gently. “Do you like it? Is it sweet enough?”
“Hm. Sweet.”
Wei Wuxian grins. “Good.” And then, he moves his chair closer so that he’s pressed up against Lan Wangji. “Let me get you some more, okay? What do you want to try next?”
“Tch, single dogs, my ass,” Jiang Fengmian hears A-Cheng scoffs before diverting his attention back to a pleased-looking Lan Xichen.
Jiang Fengmian gives Ziyuan a wide-eyed, helpless look. What is going on? he projects to her. What exactly am I witnessing?
She quirks an eyebrow and takes a long sip of her tea, sending back a very clear message: Do not interfere, Fengmian!
Jiang Fengmian glances back at the table. What does Ziyuan mean, do not interfere? Here he is, sitting in the literal eye of the storm of madness. To his left, Lan Xichen continues to charm his youngest with soft words and doe eyes to great effect. Jiang Fengmian can see the way A-Cheng is getting more and more flustered and the way those two are leaning closer and closer towards each. Across from him and a little to his right, his oldest son is demonstrating the depths of shamelessness he will sink to in order to net himself the second Lan, because apparently, those two are not merely sharing a strange friendship, which is news to Jiang Fengmian! To top it all off, for some god forsaken reason, the second Lan is receptive to A-Xian’s efforts.
How? Just how?
The only ones acting normal are his sweet A-Li and the peacock, who have sensibly secluded themselves to a peaceful corner of the table, clearly choosing to enjoy each other’s company over the shenanigan that’s happening everywhere else.
How is he supposed to sit by and…and watch as his life is rapidly turned upside down?
More importantly, why are the Lans so damn attractive to his sons?
His phone vibrates in his pocket, jolting him out of his thoughts. Out of habit, he pulls it out and reads the message.
Ziyuan: Honestly Fengmian, even if you want to interfere, what will you do exactly? Tell them to stop? To behave? The boys are adults. They’re old enough to know what they’re getting themselves into.
He looks up and shoots Ziyuan an unimpressed look. Sure enough, she has her phone in hand and is returning her own look of disapproval. He types back his response.
Me: Do you know that A-Xian likes the other Lan boy? Since when did this development occur? First, it’s our A-Cheng, and now it’s our A-Xian! One by one, those Lans are stealing away our sons!
The response from his wife comes fast.
Ziyuan: For fuck’s sake, Fengmian.
Ziyuan: The Lans aren’t stealing our sons. A-Cheng and Xichen are starting a relationship where both parties are equals. As for the gremlin, if anything, it’s him who’s putting in some real elbow grease to snatch up Lan Wangji. I have never seen him this enthusiastic about anything.
Jiang Fengmian has. It’s during the months Wei Wuxian spent tailing A-Cheng, batting away perverts and Lan Xichen alike like a glorified dick goalie. He suspects Ziyuan would not appreciate the reminder of their ridiculousness though.
Me: What if it’s some sort of bizarre corporate takeover by the Lans?
Ziyuan: Do you honestly believe Lan Qiren would send his precious nephews as bait? Let alone bait for Wei Wuxian, who has zero interest in being a part of Jiang Corp?
That’s a rather fair point. Lan Qiren would cough up blood if he knows what A-Xian is up to.
His phone buzzes again.
Ziyuan: Let them sort themselves out.
Ziyuan: Besides, is it really that bad to have our sons snag both Twin Jades of Lan? Both of them have stellar reputations for being honourable and it will strengthen our partnership with Gusu Lan even more. The sons will also be happy. It’s an all around win.
While his wife is making a lot of sense, Jiang Fengmian knows better, knows her.
Me: You just want to be able to brag to Madam Jin that A-Cheng and A-Xian managed to lock down the two most eligible bachelors of this country.
Ziyuan doesn’t deign to type a response back, but her smirk says it all.
Whether Jiang Fengmian likes it or not, there really isn’t much he can do except panic in the background. At least with Wei Wuxian, he’s less concerned that his oldest son is being taken advantage of by the second Lan. Wei Wuxian is the one who’s actively pursuing Lan Wangji, to the surprise of even Lan Wangji himself.
Further, of the two, Lan Wangji is clearly the good influence, the pillar of sanity and of self-discipline who’s keeping Wei Wuxian from doing something stupid and reckless. Lan Wangji is the one who is getting mercilessly teased and bullied by his vivacious eldest son, while absorbing the barrage of attacks with a heroic display of stoicism. So, if anything, it’s really the other way around, it’s A-Xian who’s loudly and shamelessly taking advantage of Lan Wangji’s good nature.
He…should be more concerned over A-Xian’s corrupting influence over the second Lan and the inevitable angry phone calls from Lan Qiren. Jiang Fengmian should also probably prepare an apology gift or two in advance. Just in case.
But his point stands. A-Xian will do just fine.
With A-Cheng though, that’s…more complicated.
For all of A-Cheng’s ferociousness and snark, he possesses a tender heart and the tendency to internalize all of his worries on some misconception that somehow, he’s the one at fault. The most critical person of A-Cheng is himself, and Jiang Fengmian would be blind if he doesn’t see how that is directly attributed to his parenting. Or lack thereof.
A-Cheng’s heart is a bit fragile and it’s Jiang Fengmian’s fault.
Now, A-Cheng is taking the chance to place his heart in the hands of one Lan Xichen. The same Lan Xichen who is much older, more experienced, more…wily. And Jiang Fengmian still couldn’t get a proper read on him.
Months have passed since that fateful Sunday brunch; months of additional interaction with Lan Xichen not just as a business partner, but outside of work as well. Months of polite dinners and lunches, tea times and family hikes, a birthday celebration (Ziyuan’s), movie nights, and not once has Lan Xichen deviated from his usual, pleasant demeanor.
The only things Jiang Fengmian is able to learn about Lan Xichen are as follows:
First, he appears to share some sort of a secret language with his younger brother, Lan Wangji, who’s also been a frequent guest to these events. The two Lans appear to be able to have whole conversations just by exchanging side glances. A rather uncanny ability, but Jiang Fengmian supposes that it’s rather sweet how close he and his brother are.
Second, Lan Xichen appears to be naturally optimistic with the tendency to see the good in everyone and everything. Where A-Cheng is being sarcastic, Lan Xichen would call that “funny and full of character.” Where A-Xian is being (frankly) a bit obnoxious, Lan Xichen would see it as “enthusiastic and charming.” Because of his seemingly natural good cheer, not even Ziyuan has the heart to unleash her full torrent of negativity and scathing commentary around Lan Xichen in fear of “tainting the poor boy.”
Third, Lan Xichen always appears to be at his best. He’s prepared, competent, and composed. He’s never a flustered mess, from the neat way he dresses to the way he carries himself with poise and the eloquent way he speaks. He is every inch the pride and joy of the Lan family.
How can anyone actually be that perfect? There has to be more to him, a flaw somewhere to be found, a chink in the armor, a faux pas he has made. Jiang Fengmian just knows it. As he had told Ziyuan, Lan Xichen will slip up and he will be damned if he doesn’t get to witness it.
Jiang Fengmian gets his wish exactly one month later at the Annual Architecture Gala.
As the name suggests, the Annual Architecture Gala occurs once a year as an opportunity for the top architecture, construction and land development firms to congregate, network, and show off their latest designs and innovations. The event tends to last for three days, culminating in a black-tie only event on the last night. It’s also an event exclusively reserved for the top industries in the country, involving fine food and finer wine. Naturally, the gala attendees are predominantly those from the Big Five: the Jiangs, the Nies, the Lans, the Jins and the Wens.
This annual gala is a bit different for Jiang Fengmian in that it is the first time his whole family is in attendance. For the past couple of years, it’s mostly been Jiang Fengmian, Yu Ziyuan, and A-Li schmoozing their way into fresh opportunities for partnerships. Given A-Cheng’s decision to be involved in Jiang Corp, Jiang Fengmian figures that the gala is as good of an opportunity as any for him to make his debut.
Wei Wuxian is attending despite being a temp at Jiang Corp because he had begged his way into an invite. He wanted to use this as an opportunity to spend more time with Lan Wangji all dressed up while getting a free meal and some booze. Jiang Fengmian allowed it because he still felt guilty over how Wei Wuxian was the target of A-Cheng’s ire for the whole spying business.
Jiang Fengmian suspects that Ziyuan didn’t kick up a fuss because she wants to openly brag about her two sons snagging the Twin Jades to the women in attendance, and nothing facilitates bragging like physical proof.
But with Wei Wuxian in attendance, plastering himself against Lan Wangji as he does with one arm wrapped around the other’s waist, it also means Jiang Fengmian gets to witness the ever changing shades on Lan Qiren’s face as he goes from pale mortification to red outrage in real time.
Ziyuan, who’s been by his side the entire evening, is also shooting Lan Qiren a worried look.
Right. Time to run some interference before Lan Qiren has a heart attack.
“Mr. Lan, good evening!” Jiang Fengmian says smoothly after he and Ziyuan made their way to the Lan patriarch. “I heard congratulations are in order! The Central Library design Gusu Lan submitted is truly exquisite. It is no wonder you won the bid.”
“Yes, I love the seamless way you’ve blended green space with the ultra-modern, minimalistic look,” Ziyuan chimes in, all smiles and queenly grace. Her elegant demeanor matches the elegance of her violet floor length gown. “Whatever gave you the idea to incorporate an atrium with the flower garden and indoor pond?”
The distraction works. Mr. Lan visibly relaxes. “Mr. Jiang, Ms. Yu, good evening,” he replies, “Thank you. Gusu Lan prides itself in showcasing the harmony of nature, human and the society they live in. One does not need to compromise the natural, rustic beauty of the wilderness for modernism!”
Ah, and this is why Jiang Fengmian does not miss speaking to Lan Qiren. The man has the tendency to lecture about the virtues of being one with nature and of simple living while exuding holier-than-thou by the gallon. Jiang Fengmian has heard that once upon a time, Lan Qiren had dreams of becoming a teacher, but that those dreams were rapidly dashed like water against the rocks at the shore. Something to do with the realities of having to deal with noisy, idiotic pupils.
This does not surprise him one bit. Lan Qiren does not come off as being particularly tolerable of those who do not align with his definition of respectability. Frankly, Jiang Fengmian is surprised Lan Qiren hasn’t raised hell when he found out that both of his precious nephews are dating the Jiang boys.
“The design certainly captures that spirit very well,” Jiang Fengmian says after Lan Qiren is done with his spiel. “Who’s the one in charge of the project?”
“That would be my Xichen,” Lan Qiren answers and puffs out in pride. “It’s Xichen’s first project that he’s in charge of from start to finish. I figured that it is time to give him more opportunities to lead, let him stretch his wings. The boy certainly earned it!”
“That’s quite the achievement, I must offer my congratulations when I see hi – ”
A large crash of breaking glass cuts through the room. Concerned murmurs from attendees begin to rise around them.
“Tch! What are you all gawking at? Get back to your boring ass chitter chatters,” comes a slurring, nasally voice from somewhere across the room. Jiang Fengmian couldn’t make out who the speaker is with all the people blocking his view. It doesn’t sound like anyone he knows.
Lan Qiren has no trouble identifying the person though. “That Wen Chao is out of control,” he tsks with a shake of his head. “What on Earth is Wen Ruohan thinking, letting that boy represent him in these events? He’s being an embarrassment, not like that’s surprising!”
“Wen Chao? As in Wen Ruohan’s younger son?” Jiang Fengmian asks. “Have you met him before?”
“Pah. And I wish I haven’t,” Lan Qiren practically spits out, his disapproval stronger than ever. “That boy has been put in charge of a couple of projects that Gusu Lan has a stake in. He is an absolute nightmare to work with. Arrogant, rude, inflammatory, wholly unprofessional!”
More crashing can be heard as well as a string of expletives. The murmuring is louder this time, coloured with a note of disapproval.
“Mr. Wen, perhaps you’ve had enough this evening –”
“Oh, piss off, why don’t you? Booze is the only thing that makes these people half-way tolerable!”
“Did you know,” Lan Qiren says, leaning in a little, his voice in a hush, “that the Wens submitted a bid for the Central Library?”
Ziyuan gives the Lan a conspiring look. “I’m guessing it did not go well for them.”
Lan Qiren laughs. “It most certainly did not! I saw the design myself. They basically submitted plans to build a condominium: tall, full of glass, completely and utterly out of touch with the objective, which is to build a library. Wen Chao was apparently in charge of that.”
“Really? How unfortunate.”
“Oi! Where the fuck is Lan Xichen? I have a few words for him and his garbage design –”
“Mr. Wen! Please contain yourself!”
Lan Qiren’s head whips towards where Wen Chao can be heard. His expression fills with outrage.
“I take it that Wen Chao did not take losing with grace,” Ziyuan says dryly. “We should head over to put a stop to things before they get out of hand.”
The three of them rush over, weaving through the throng of people as best as they can, but it’s slow going. The crowd of people becomes denser as they get closer to the source of chaos, making it hard to see far ahead.
“Lan Xichen! Show yourself, you coward!”
“Mr. Wen, please…”
“If he’s a real man, he’d face me!”
“Mr. Wen,” comes Lan Xichen’s crisp voice. There’s a frost to it that Jiang Fengmian has never heard before. “Now is hardly the time or place. Should you have any concerns regarding me and my work, I am happy to address them at a later issue in private.”
“I can say whatever the fuck I want, and you’re just going to have to suck it up and take it!”
Clearly, Mr. Wen did not take kindly to Lan Xichen’s suggestion.
Although Jiang Fengmian is still too far to interject, he can barely make out the evolving scene from the open gaps between people. A figure in an obnoxious red tuxedo jacket with black lapels is swaying on his feet – Wen Chao, Jiang Fengmian is guessing. He is pointing an aggressive finger at Lan Xichen, occasionally shrugging off the hands of the man who’s been trying to placate him. A third man is standing quietly behind Wen Chao, watching the scene but not interfering. They’re probably Wen Chao’s guards.
“You know what I think?” Wen Chao sneers, “I think your design is boring and tacky – a fucking white building with some plants here and there. Who the fuck cares? No idea why anyone would think it’s a winner, especially over mine. But I guess with a face like yours, you don’t actually need any talent, huh? A little favour here and there behind closed doors is all you need to get ahead!”
The looks of shock and offence are evident on everyone’s faces, and especially on Lan Qiren whose complexion turns an ugly puce. Accusing Lan Xichen as being not talented is ridiculous in on itself, but to insinuate that he has to whore himself out to get ahead is simply ludicrous. Not even Jiang Fengmian, for all that he is suspicious of Lan Xichen, would ever believe that his success is attributed to something other than pure tenacity and hard work.
“All this because you lost,” A-Cheng’s voice can be heard over the crowd. Jiang Fengmian’s attention refocuses on the scene like a laser beam. “Little man with your fat ego. Run home before you embarrass yourself even more.”
Sure enough, Jiang Cheng has placed himself in front of Lan Xichen like a protective mother bear. Wei Wuxian, Lan Wangji and Nie Mingjue are also gathered around A-Cheng and Lan Xichen, all sporting expressions with varying levels of disdain.
This is not looking good. Between A-Xian’s clenched teeth and the way A-Cheng is clenching his fists, Jiang Fengmian can recognize the clear signs of his sons’ rising tempers. He hurries even more, pushing through the crowd and throwing a casual, “Excuse me,” here and there.
Wen Chao does not blow up though. To everyone’s surprise, he merely…laughs.
“And who are you, baby?” he purrs. “I haven’t seen you around before!”
Jiang Fengmian does a double take.
“What?” A-Cheng asks, just as lost.
The strangeness continues and Wen Chao gives a low whistle. “Well, aren’t you a sight for sore eyes. You got a name, sweet cheeks?”
“Uh.”
“Aw, c’mon baby, don’t be shy! I don’t bite. Unless,” he positively leers at A-Cheng, “you’re into that sort of thing.”
“Oh, for fu - you have got to be kidding me right now.” A-Cheng throws his hands in the air. “Xichen-ge, let’s go. Clearly, this drunk asshole is out of his mind.”
“Xichen-ge?” Wen Chao looks between A-Cheng and Lan Xichen, and his expression turns hungry. “Oh, so that’s how it is. Damn, Lan Xichen! Where did you find this piece of ass? Didn’t know you go for pretty twinks!”
Jiang Fengmian almost spits up blood. From the corner of his eyes, he can see Lan Wangji holding A-Xian back, but he wouldn’t blame the second Lan one bit if he lets A-Xian loose.
That little piece of shit did not just call his son that.
Jiang Fengmian isn’t the only affected. Something in the air seems to shift just then, a mounting pressure is building in the air like a brewing storm on the horizon. Jiang Fengmian’s eyes flicker to Lan Xichen. Gone is the semblance of politeness in Lan Xichen’s expression, or the loose, languid way he holds his posture. He’s drawn himself up to his full height, and his eyes flash dangerously.
“Never call him that again,” he says simply, darkly.
The man that’s been trying to get Wen Chao to fall back doubles his efforts, but Wen Chao once again shoves him back. “Oh, fuck off! What, you think I’m scared of that nerd? Hey, hey! Sweet heart!” he calls out to A-Cheng, who looks at him like he’s a piece of shit under his shoe. “You think about getting yourself a real man?”
“Pathetic.”
“Feisty aren’t ya? I can think of a few things we can do with that mouth of yours. Hey!” Wen Chao’s sleazy grin turns ugly at the sight of A-Cheng turning away, pressing a comforting hand against Lan Xichen’s arm and murmuring something too quiet to hear. “Just what the fuck do you think you’re doing?”
“We got security on the phone,” Wei Ying utters, giving Wen Chao the death glare, “they should be here in a minute.”
Jiang Cheng nods. “Good. No reason for us to linger here with that human garbage. C’mon Xichen-ge, let’s go.”
No sooner did the group turn around that Wen Chao decides to act. He lunges forward with a snarl. His hand darts out and snags on to Jiang Cheng’s wrist in a grip so tight that his knuckles turn white, and yanks him towards him. The sudden motion causes A-Cheng to stumble a few steps forwards before he can find his footing and hold his ground.
“I’m not done talking to you, you little bitch!”
“Let go, jackass!”
“You don’t get to walk away from me!”
Jiang Fengmian pushes through the crowd, his heart pounding. “A-Cheng!”
The scene descends into chaos. A-Cheng twists his arm and with his free hand pries Wen Chao’s fingers off of him, bending the fingers back until something gives an audible crack and Wen Chao lets go with a howl. Wei Wuxian immediately swoops in, grabbing A-Cheng from his shoulders and pulling him towards safety, while Lan Wangji and Nie Mingjue slide in front of them as human shields.
Wen Chao stumbles upright, clutching his hand, murder in his eyes. “Little slut! When I get my hands on you, you – urk!”
He couldn’t finish his sentence. In the second it takes for him to shoot off his mouth, Lan Xichen steps forward and with one hand, grips the front of his shirt and hauls him up and up until Wen Chao is dangling in the air. The Wen scrambles for purchase, feet kicking at nothing as he desperately tries to claw his way to freedom, but Lan Xichen’s grip does not waver. His expression remains stony and appears utterly unbothered by the flailing man he’s hoisted up.
“Wen Chao,” he hisses, giving the other man a strong shake like he’s a rag doll when he wouldn’t stop whimpering. “Listen carefully because I will not repeat myself. I don’t care if you insult me. I don’t care if you insult my work. But you will never insult my boyfriend, do you understand? I said, do you understand?”
At the other’s desperate nods, Lan Xichen proceeds to toss Wen Chao across the room like he’s a softball. Wen Chao lands on the smooth tiled floor with a resounding thump and slides back a few feet before coming to a stop, sprawled out like a starfish. His two guards immediately scramble after him.
“You will not touch him,” Lan Xichen continues. His tone is steely and quiet, but with the way everyone in the room is holding their breath, his words resonate. “You will not speak to him. You will not look at him. If you so much as think about him, I will break every bone in your body.”
Satisfied by Wen Chao’s gasping wheeze, Lan Xichen lets out a sigh and turns to the gawking crowd. “Please accept my sincerest apology for the interruption,” he says with a deep bow before hurrying back to Jiang Cheng to wrap him in his arms.
Jiang Fengmian, Yu Ziyuan and Lan Qiren manage to reach them just as security arrives to escort Wen Chao and his cronies away. Likewise, A-Li and Jin Zixuan are heading towards them a few steps behind.
“A-Cheng!” Ziyuan cries. She pulls her son into a hug, while Jiang Fengmian runs a hand down A-Cheng’s arm to check for injuries. To their left, Lan Qiren is similarly gathered around his nephews to check on them, but not without unleashing a fresh barrage of scolding.
“Are you alright, did that man hurt you?” Jiang Fengmian asks.
Jiang Cheng pulls away and shakes his head. “N-no, it’s fine. Just a bit of bruising. Nothing serious at all.” He rolls his sleeve up and sure enough, aside from the red marks wrapped around his wrist, nothing else seems wrong. “See?”
“Thank goodness,” Jiang Fengmian murmurs, turning A-Cheng’s wrist in his hands a few times before letting it go. “And you, A-Xian? Are you hurt?”
Wei Wuxian, who’s pulled away to give the parents some space, shakes his head. “I’m perfectly fine. Nothing happened to me. I’m dying to know what A-Cheng did to that asshole though.”
“Bent his fingers the other way until they can’t bend that way no more,” comes A-Cheng’s response with a shrug. “Learned it from YouTube. Hi, A-Jie, Jin Zixuan. I’m fine, see?”
Jiang Fengmian turns to Lan Xichen, who’s hovering about, a little hunched over and looking incredibly shame-faced. The way he’s acting now compared to just mere minutes ago is like night a day. Any traces of the fierce, unforgiving man from before seems to have completely dissipated, leaving behind the gentle, kind, proper Lan Xichen that Jiang Fengmian is familiar with. It’s the same Lan Xichen he worked with for the past year, the same Lan Xichen who charmed his family, who had attended many meals and family events at his home. Pleasant, smiley Lan Xichen with a well of patience that runs as deep as the ocean.
But Lan Xichen apparently does have a breaking point. It manifests in the form of a terrifying, fearless man, one who would not hesitate to haul that snivelling Wen Chao up into the air with one hand before laying down the law. A man who is not afraid of making sure that his statement is heard loud and clear.
What was it that Lan Xichen had said? “If you so much as think about him, I will break every bone in your body”? No room for misinterpretation there.
Jiang Fengmian has to give it to the other man. He sure knows how to deliver a message with style. He also can’t help but view Lan Xichen with newfound respect.
“Thank you,” Jiang Fengmian says, “for helping my son and for stopping that madman. Who knows what he would do to A-Cheng if you haven’t stepped in.”
Lan Xichen’s eyes widen. Apparently, he was not expecting a thank you from Jiang Fengmian. “No, I should be the one thanking Wanyin! If it weren’t for me, he wouldn’t have gotten caught up in this mess.”
“As if I will let that asshole spew all that trash.” Jiang Cheng pulls away from his fussing sister and the peacock with a scowl. “You won that bid fair and square! He had no right to demean you like that just because his fragile ego can’t take losing.”
“Wanyin, I don’t care what he says to me.”
“I do! I’m not going to let him trash talk my boyfriend,” A-Cheng grits out. “Just like how you wouldn’t stand for it if he badmouths me either, so why shouldn’t it be the same if the situation is reversed? I may not be able to…to do what you just did there, but that sure doesn’t mean I won’t give him hell! We’re a team! We stick together.”
“Wanyin,” Lan Xichen breathes. He moves closer and cups A-Cheng’s face with careful hands, his thumb stroking against his rosy cheeks. “Have a care for my heart when you say something sweet like that in public.” He brushes A-Cheng’s hair out of the way presses a soft kiss on his forehead.
Everyone conveniently looks away when Lan Xichen presses a second kiss on the cheek, then a third lingering one on the lips, humming in satisfaction.
“Okay, but can we talk about what just happened for a quick second? About how Lan Xichen picked up a man with one hand and threw him across the room like a piece of trash?”
Jiang Fengmian had forgotten Nie Mingjue was there in all this excitement, and jumps a little. Nie Mingjue does not seem to mind. In fact, he has the largest grin on his face like Christmas came early. “Xichen, that Wen kid almost pissed himself in fear! Never in a million years would I expect you, of all people, to do that. And you threatened him! Threatened to break every bone in his body!” Nie Mingjue pretends to wipe tears from his eyes. “Da-ge is so proud! So proud!”
“Da-ge. Please don’t remind me of what I just did. That was most unsightly.”
“Unsightly? Hardly! Didn't you hear me cheer you on? This entire time I was telling you to go over there and kick his ass! Wait until I tell A-Yao about this too! He’s going to regret missing this gala. It’s the best one we’ve had in years!”
“Please don’t. Uncle’s heart doesn’t look like it can take it.”
Wei Wuxian takes the opportunity to side up to Lan Wangji. “Say, Lan Zhan. Would you also pick up a man and toss him across the room if he insults me?”
“Hmm. No need for him to insult you. I will do it even if he looks at you funny.”
“Lan-er gege is so romantic!”
“In any event,” Yu Ziyuan interrupts. “I believe that it is in our best interest if Jiang Corp were to terminate its partnership with Wen Co. given today’s development. I trust that Gusu Lan and Qinghe Nie share this sentiment as well?”
Lan Qiren harumphs. “If the Wens think they can continue to work with us after the trash Wen Chao spewed out, then they have another thing coming!”
“Fine by me! I never liked them anyway.” Nie Mingjue grins and crosses his arms over his chest. “I’m all for embargo Wen Co.”
They all look at Jin Zixuan. He shrinks back a little.
“Uh, I can ask my father if the Jins are on board?” he offers.
“Ask your mother,” Ziyuan corrects. “Well, I’m glad that that’s settled. Gentlemen, I don’t know about you but I am getting tired of this place. A change of scenery would do us some good. Should you be interested, you’re all cordially invited to Jiang Manor to celebrate our renewed partnership with some digestifs and desserts.”
With the promise of more booze (and tea for the Lans) secured, the group shuffles towards the exit.
Jiang Fengmian pretends to not see A-Cheng lacing Lan Xichen’s fingers with his, or the way Lan Xichen draws A-Cheng’s hand up in a kiss as if sealing a promise.
Later that night, when all the guests have left, and Jiang Fengmian and Ziyuan are getting ready for bed after an incredibly long day, Jiang Fengmian mentally adds two more things he’s learned about Lan Xichen.
Fourth: Lan Xichen’s patience runs dry the moment someone he cares for is threatened. He will go to great lengths to protect that person, including but not limited to threatening and causing bodily harm. That is the only time he will deviate from his pleasant demeanor.
Fifth: Lan Xichen, like all the Lans apparently, have incredible arm strength.
Jiang Fengmian sinks onto his side of the bed and breathes out a sigh.
So… Lan Xichen might not be so bad after all. The rumors about Lan Xichen’s saint-like temperament may carry way more than just a grain of truth given the months upon months of supporting evidence from his own observations. It’s also clear that Lan Xichen only ever breaks his composure when he has to defend a loved one, and who can blame him? Jiang Fengmian and A-Xian certainly haven’t acted with the most dignity whenever they have to deal with the Pervert Situation. He’d be a massive hypocrite to hold that against Lan Xichen.
He’d also be remiss if he doesn’t acknowledge the way Lan Xichen had practically melted when A-Cheng had called them a team, or the tender way he treats A-Cheng after the whole endeavor is done and over with from the way he keeps close to A-Cheng to the quick little kisses he gives him whenever he thinks nobody is looking. The affection he heaps onto his son is so abundant that A-Cheng has to mumble at him to stop because he is being embarrassing.
Those are the actions of a man who adores his youngest, not the actions of a man who’s seeking to take advantage of him.
A pair of delicate arms snake around his middle as the scent of lotus and bergamot fills his senses. “You look like you’re stewing on something,” Ziyuan mutters, resting her head against his shoulder. “What’s gotten you so worried?”
“Hm, I’m not worried.” Jiang Fengmian gives his wife’s hands a reassuring squeeze. “I’m just thinking about the future is all.”
Perhaps, Jiang Fengmian can finally rest a little easier knowing that A-Cheng is in good hands.
“Mr. Jiang, Wei Wuxian, thank you for taking this call. I’m so sorry for calling you both so late.”
Wei Wuxian looks up from the phone that he has put on speaker to give Jiang Fengmian a questioning look. ‘What’s going on?’ he mouths out, but Jiang Fengmian shakes his head. He has no idea either.
“Xichen-ge, no worries at all! How was your trip? I heard from A-Cheng that you guys lucked out with the weather!”
“Yes! Hawaii was stunning, thank you. We had sunny skies until the very last day right when we’re set to fly back. We picked up a few gifts for you all. We’re happy to drop them off at dinner next Wednesday.”
Jiang Fengmian moves closer to the phone to speak. “Thank you, that is very kind of you. I’ll be sure to let Ziyuan know as well and we look forward to seeing you on Wednesday. Is there anything else we can help you with?”
“Ah,” a pause, “the purpose of this call may be a bit…odd. It’s about Wanyin.”
That sounds ominous. What could that possibly mean?
“I know this may sound a bit ridiculous,” Lan Xichen continues, “but I can’t help but notice something rather peculiar. And, well, rather than jumping to conclusions, I thought I’d ask to see if you have made similar observations.”
“What were your observations?” Jiang Fengmian probes.
A longer pause this time. “You see, I can’t help but notice that Wanyin tends to attract a…” the voice trails off, clearly unsure on how to continue.
Dawning realization hits the both of them, and the look Wei Wuxian and Jiang Fengmian exchange this time is full of understanding. And pity. Poor, poor Lan Xichen.
“A-Cheng tends to attract a certain type of attention?” Wei Wuxian suggests gently.
“Yes! Lots of attention! In the form of – ”
This time, it’s Jiang Fengmian who interjects, “…seasoned gentleman?”
A sucked in breath. “You know.”
“We know,” Jiang Fengmian and Wei Wuxian answer in unison.
“Wait, has it always been – ”
“Yes.”
“With older men?”
“Yes.”
“Are they…are they always – ”
Jiang Fengmian sighs. “If you mean prevalent, persistent and sleazy, then the answer is yes to all of those things.”
“And Wanyin – ?”
“Doesn’t notice, ever,” Wei Wuxian says, all matter of fact. “Before you ask, this has been going on for the last four years.”
“That long?” Another pause. Then, suspicion. “Wei Wuxian, was that why you were always hiding in the bushes back then?”
A-Xian’s wide-eyed look of panic says it all. Busted.
Jiang Fengmian clears his throat. “We thought it would be prudent to take some precautions.”
“Did you think I was like them? Mr. Jiang, I would never!”
“Rest assured, we do not believe that of you.” Not anymore, that is. “Xichen, it really wasn’t personal.” It totally was. “A-Xian and I had a protocol in place in order to best deal with Wanyin’s…trouble. We were simply following it out of an abundance of caution.”
Silence stretches on for a bit longer, then, “…Would you mind telling me about your protocol?”
Twin Cheshire grins slowly start to spread on Jiang Fengmian and Wei Wuxian's faces. Then, Jiang Fengmian turns back to the phone. “Of course not. Do you have a pen and paper? You may want to keep some notes. We can also discuss coordinating our efforts.”