Work Text:
It wasn't often that Yichen fell sick. And it was even less often that Ji Xiangkong was the one taking care of him instead of Cai Ding, who was caught up with work the last few days and hence was not around as much.
“Looks like your temperature is still high,” Ji Xiangkong sighed as he read the thermometer.
Before Ji Xiangkong could register what he was doing, he reached for Yichen’s forehead with the back of his hand and then pressed his palm against Yichen’s cheek. He froze when Yichen stiffened and pulled his hand back hurriedly.
“I…I’m sorry,” Ji Xiangkong stuttered.
“It’s…it’s alright,” Yichen looked away. “It was necessary.”
Things had been a bit awkward between them for the last two days. Ever since Yichen walked in on Ji Xiangkong and Cai Ding in a…compromising position. In Yichen’s defense, he had thought Cai Ding had fallen or hurt himself given the sounds he was making and the door was unlocked. What had made it worse was that they had…finished…in that very moment and were slow to react and regain their composure. Though the real embarrassment came from the way Yichen had felt a vague sense of intrigue in the sight before him, in the look on their faces, in the way he could see their bodies joined and moving together.
It was a fleeting sensation but Yichen felt the thrill wash over him, drenching his entire body, before the mortification took over and he turned around and bolted. Cai Ding had hurried after him, trying his best to handle the situation delicately and apologized profusely. But really, it was bound to happen at some point given their v-poly relationship and living situation and it was an honest mistake.
But two days later, Yichen was still thinking about it, unable to parse his reaction. It didn't help that he had fallen sick and was left in the care of Ji Xiangkong who was always close by, his hand gently touching him every now and then, his scent lingering even when he wasn't, and his smile comforting and warm. Yichen couldn't understand his emotions and feelings, and it was frustrating.
On the third day, as they sat on the couch watching a movie together after dinner, Yichen felt himself seeking Ji Xiangkong’s touch. It was not something he ever wanted before, and he didn't know how to ask for it either. But somehow he had shuffled closer to Ji Xiangkong on the couch and before he knew it, he had fallen asleep with his head on his shoulder.
When his eyes opened, he was sandwiched between Ji Xiangkong and Cai Ding. Cai Ding’s hand was massaging his thigh and Ji Xiangkong was unnaturally still. Yichen sat up and looked at Ji Xiangkong, his boyfriend’s boyfriend. Cai Ding’s hand stopped on his thigh and Ji Xiangkong’s eyes flitted from Yichen to Cai Ding and back.
“Sorry, I…” Yichen backed away, suddenly feeling guilty for making Ji Xiangkong uncomfortable.
This wasn't the agreement after all. They were nothing more than friends to each other. Ji Xiangkong didn't feel that way for Yichen. And Yichen couldn't fulfill Ji Xiangkong’s sexual needs anyway.
“No, wait,” Ji Xiangkong placed a hand on Yichen’s arm but pulled it away just as quickly.
“Gouzazai,” Cai Ding hugged Yichen from behind and kissed his shoulder, “what’s going on?”
Yichen looked down and shook his head.
“Talk to us,” Cai Ding encouraged Yichen.
“I…I don't know,” Yichen said finally, biting his lips. “It’s nothing. And it’s…not right anyway. We…we’re a v-poly, and Ji Xiangkong doesn’t feel that way about me and-”
“Our relationship is not set in stone,” Ji Xiangkong blurted.
“Are you curious?” Cai Ding said gently. “It’s okay if you want to explore.”
Yichen looked at Ji Xiangkong hesitantly.
“He…he doesn’t have to,” Yichen said finally and looked away again.
“I…want to,” Ji Xiangkong said. “If you want to.”
Yichen’s heart raced and he leaned back into Cai Ding’s embrace seeking comfort.
“What do you want?” Cai Ding asked softly and kissed Yichen’s cheek.
“I want to try…” Yichen gulped and steadied his voice, “kissing you,” he glanced at Ji Xiangkong’s lips, “but…not in a…umm…”
“Not in a sexual way,” Ji Xiangkong said with a small smile.
Yichen nodded and relaxed when Cai Ding’s arms wrapped around him snugly. Yichen felt a tinge of excitement when Ji Xiangkong leaned closer and he clutched the sofa. He relaxed when Ji Xiangkong placed a hand on his and loosened his grip on the cushion, holding his hand gently and giving it a squeeze. Yichen couldn't help but smile when Ji Xiangkong kissed the back of his hand before leaning in closer until he was inches from his face.
Yichen’s breath hitched when Ji Xiangkong kissed his cheek. It was strange how the physical intimacy with him felt so different from when it was with Cai Ding. He held his breath when Ji Xiangkong’ss lips pressed against his, the touch feather light, tentative. Just as he was about to pull away, Yichen cupped Ji Xiangkong’s cheek and leaned forward to prolong the kiss. He could feel Ji Xiangkong smile into the kiss and couldn't help but huff a small laugh as he pulled away.
“How did that feel?” Ji Xiangkong asked, still close enough for Yichen to feel his warm breath.
“Good,” Yichen said simply. “How did it feel for you?”
“New,” Ji Xiangkong whispered. “But good. Like a hug…but better.”
Yichen couldn't help but chuckle and rested his head back on Cai Ding’s shoulder.
“You’re still not fully okay though,” Cai Ding said with a nudge. “Let’s get you to bed.”
“Mn,” Yichen sighed and stood up.
He reached for Ji Xiangkong’s hand and could see the surprise on his face.
“Be careful, Ji Xiangkong,” Cai Ding giggled. “He’ll follow you around like a puppy.”
Yichen snorted and dragged Ji Xiangkong with them as they headed to Yichen and Cai Ding’s room. When they got into bed, Yichen didn't hesitate to sleep between them this time. He still didn't want to be spooned but didn't mind having Ji Xiangkong’s hand on his chest as Cai Ding nuzzled close to him as always.
“I’ll still beat your ass when we race our bikes again,” Yichen said suddenly with a grin.
“You wish,” Ji Xiangkong snorted and Yichen laughed out loud and squeezed his hand.
“Winner gets a kiss,” Yichen whispered.
"Deal," Ji Xiangkong whispered back and Yichen closed his eyes with a content sigh.