Chapter Text
The days following the Wens visit had been peaceful. Wei Ying had found himself adapting to the quiet rhythm of life at the Lan estate.
He had never been one for stillness but with Lan Zhan always near, a steady, grounding presence, the quiet didn’t feel suffocating. Instead, there was a strange comfort in it, a sense of stability that Wei Ying wasn’t used to. The bond between them had altered more than just his circumstances it had woven them together in ways that neither of them could ignore.
It was more than physical closeness, more than the scent that lingered between them, or the way Lan Zhan’s presence soothed him. Wei Ying had always been strong willed, unafraid of standing on his own but this bond... it was different. He could feel the connection between them, a quiet hum just beneath his skin, like an invisible thread binding them closer. It wasn’t just that Lan Zhan kept him steady Wei Ying knew instinctively that he played a part in keeping Lan Zhan balanced as well, a stabilizing force that went both ways.
But peace like this was fragile. He had known from the moment he woke up in Lan Zhan’s arms that there were consequences to this bond, and not just for the two of them.
Lan Zhan’s family had orchestrated everything. Wei Ying hadn’t missed the calculated way Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren had acted, how they had ensured that this bond was cemented, not just out of concern for Lan Zhan’s well being but because they believed it was necessary. That thought had lingered in the back of Wei Ying’s mind, quiet but ever present.
It wasn’t anger that gnawed at him though he had every right to be angry about being forced into this. It was more complicated than that. The bond had given him something he hadn’t expected a place a connection. Maybe, in some twisted way, the Lans had understood that better than he had. Still, it didn’t erase the fact that they had made that decision for him, even if it was for Lan Zhan's sake.
He wasn’t sure how to feel about that.
The message had come late in the afternoon. He’d known it was coming. There had been too many unanswered questions, too many unspoken things hanging in the air. Lan Zhan’s family would need more than quiet acceptance they needed assurance and for the Lans, assurance meant control.
He and Lan Zhan had taken a walk that morning, a quiet moment of shared peace before everything shifted. Wei Ying had tried to ignore the way his thoughts twisted, focusing instead on the small, ordinary things the gentle breeze, the rustle of leaves underfoot, the quiet companionship between them. The tranquility of the estate couldn’t drown out the knowledge of what was to come. Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren were waiting for him, and Wei Ying had never been one to shy away from a confrontation, no matter how calm it might appear on the surface.
Now, as he made his way to the meeting room, his footsteps echoing softly through the long corridors, Wei Ying felt a quiet tension settling over him. His heart was steady, but there was an undeniable weight pressing down on him. This wasn’t a meeting for discussion it was a meeting for expectations. For understanding the new boundaries that had been created around him, around Lan Zhan.
When he entered the room, Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren were already seated. Their expressions were calm, but there was something beneath the surface, a quiet intensity that told Wei Ying this wasn’t just a casual conversation. Lan Qiren’s gaze was sharp, not judgmental, but assessing. There was a sense that he was measuring Wei Ying, evaluating the bond and what it meant for the future.
“Wei Wuxian,” Lan Xichen greeted him with a calm smile, though his voice carried the weight of what was to come. “Please, sit. We need to talk.”
Wei Ying raised an eyebrow at that, amusement flickering briefly across his features. “Wei Wuxian?” he repeated, his tone teasing as he crossed the room to take a seat. “Are we not family now? You should call me Wuxian.”
Lan Xichen blinked in mild surprise before his smile softened. He glanced briefly at Lan Qiren, who gave no outward reaction, then back at Wei Ying. “Very well... Wuxian,” he corrected, the weight of the conversation still present, but with a hint of warmth now threading through his voice.
Wei Ying settled into the chair, his posture relaxed but alert, knowing full well that this meeting was only beginning. The formality between them might have softened, but the gravity of what was to be discussed remained.
Lan Qiren’s sharp gaze didn’t waver. He wasn’t here to indulge in pleasantries or nicknames. “What matters is not what we call you,” he began, his voice calm but firm. “It is the bond you now share with Wangji and what that bond means moving forward.”
The calm before the storm had passed.
The room was quiet, the weight of expectation hanging between the three of them. Wei Ying leaned back slightly in his chair, waiting for Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren to speak. He had a feeling this wasn’t just about the bond there was something deeper in the air, a sense that he was about to be given a lesson in what it meant to be part of the Lan family.
Lan Xichen’s voice broke the silence first, soft but steady. “Wuxian, the bond you share with Wangji is powerful. It’s not just about the two of you anymore.”
Wei Ying raised an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching upward. “So, this is about family now?” His voice was light, teasing, but underneath it, he knew this conversation was more serious than he wanted to admit. “And here I thought it was just me and Lan Zhan.”
Lan Qiren’s expression remained firm, though his tone was more measured than usual. “It was never just about you and Wangji. You’re part of this family now. And with that comes certain... expectations.”
Wei Ying’s smile faded slightly as he leaned forward. “Expectations?”
Lan Xichen nodded. “We want to ensure that everything moves forward with care. The bond you share is strong, but it also comes with challenges. Being part of our family now, you share in the responsibility that comes with that.”
Wei Ying’s fingers tapped lightly against the arm of his chair. He had always known that bonding with Lan Zhan would mean a shift in his life, but hearing it laid out like this the weight of it was something else.
“So, what exactly are you saying?” he asked, his voice more serious now. “That being with Lan Zhan means I’m taking on all these responsibilities?”
Lan Qiren’s sharp gaze remained focused on him, though there was a flicker of something softer beneath it. “It’s not just about Wangji. You are now tied to our family’s future. Wangji is important to us, and by extension, so are you. There are responsibilities that come with that.”
Wei Ying’s chest tightened slightly at the word “responsibilities.” He had never been one to shy away from them, but hearing it in this context where his choices now affected Lan Zhan and the family made it feel heavier.
“You think I’ll mess it up?” Wei Ying asked, though his voice held no bitterness, just curiosity.
Lan Xichen shook his head with a gentle smile. “No, Wuxian. We’ve seen how you’ve calmed Wangji. We know the bond is strong. But we also know that bonds like this can bring challenges, and we want to make sure you’re prepared for them.”
Wei Ying’s eyes flickered with understanding, but he couldn’t help the small smirk that tugged at his lips. “So, I’m part of the family now, but with that comes a lot of responsibility. Got it.”
Lan Qiren’s gaze softened, though his posture remained firm. “Yes. The bond must be protected, and stability must be maintained. You have already proven you are capable of this but we will not allow the bond to be compromised.”
Wei Ying let out a slow breath, the tension easing slightly as he relaxed into his chair. “I get it. I’m not here to cause problems for Lan Zhan. I care about him more than anything. You have to trust me.”
Lan Xichen’s expression softened into a smile. “We do trust you. But know this being part of this family means we will stand by you as well. You won’t face any of this alone.”
Wei Ying nodded, the weight of the conversation slowly settling. It wasn’t just about control or expectations. It was about the fact that the Lan family wasn’t just watching over Lan Zhan they were watching over him too. He was no longer on his own.
“So, I guess I really am family now,” Wei Ying said, his voice lighter, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes. “Does that mean I should start calling you Xichen-ge and you... Uncle?”
Lan Xichen’s soft laugh filled the room, the tension dissipating as he smiled warmly. “If that’s what makes you comfortable, Wuxian.”
Lan Qiren’s eyebrow twitched ever so slightly, though he made no move to correct him. “If you must.”
Wei Ying grinned, leaning back with an exaggerated sigh. “Well, Uncle, I’ll do my best to live up to those high Lan family standards.”
Lan Qiren’s gaze remained steady, but there was the faintest glint of something almost like amusement in his eyes. “See that you do.”
Even though the earlier exchange had lightened the atmosphere, Wei Ying could still feel the weight of unspoken concerns pressing down on them. The Lan family’s acceptance wasn’t as straightforward as it seemed there was something deeper, a caution in Lan Xichen’s and Lan Qiren’s eyes. It wasn’t just about Wei Ying adjusting to the bond, but about ensuring Lan Zhan’s stability, too.
The steady ticking of the clock filled the room, and for a moment, no one spoke. Wei Ying knew they were holding something back, waiting for the right moment to say what truly needed to be said.
Lan Xichen’s voice was the first to break the silence. “There’s something else we need to discuss, Wuxian. Wangji’s control.”
Wei Ying stilled. He had felt the intensity of Lan Zhan’s emotions through their bond the overwhelming possessiveness, the raw depth of his alpha instincts. But he had never doubted Lan Zhan’s ability to manage it. “Lan Zhan is fine,” Wei Ying said quietly, his voice steady. “He has control. The bond hasn’t changed that.”
Lan Qiren’s gaze was sharp, though there was no malice in it. “It has intensified things. The bond has made Wangji’s emotions more powerful, and while you may think he has control, there’s more at play here. His devotion to you, his instinct to protect you those feelings are heightened now and if they are not kept in check, it could lead to instability.”
Wei Ying felt a flicker of unease, a subtle worry creeping into his chest. He had experienced the strength of Lan Zhan’s bond, the way his presence had consumed him in the rut cell but instability? He hadn’t considered that.
“I’m not worried about Lan Zhan,” Wei Ying replied, his voice firm but tinged with quiet defensiveness. “We keep each other steady. Isn’t that what the bond is for?”
Lan Xichen’s expression softened, but there was concern in his eyes. “It is but you need to understand that Wangji feels everything more deeply now. His emotions, his connection to you it’s stronger than before. That intensity can make him vulnerable.”
Wei Ying’s fingers tightened slightly around the edge of the chair. He had assumed the bond would give them both strength, that it would stabilize everything between them. The idea that it made Lan Zhan more emotionally vulnerable... it unsettled him.
“I can handle it,” Wei Ying said softly, though the words seemed more for himself than anyone else.
Lan Qiren’s gaze remained fixed on him, unwavering. “You may believe that now, but bonds are unpredictable and Wangji’s attachment to you is unlike anything we’ve seen before. You must be prepared for how this bond could affect both of you in the long term.”
The weight of the words settled heavily on Wei Ying’s chest. He hadn’t realized the full depth of what the bond might do to Lan Zhan how it could affect his emotions, his sense of control. Lan Zhan had always been the steady one, the calm in his storm but now... was it his responsibility to keep that balance?
His voice lowered, filled with uncertainty. “What are you saying? That I’m not strong enough to help him?”
Lan Xichen leaned forward slightly, his expression gentle but serious. “No, we’re not saying that. You have already proven that you can help him, that you’re capable of keeping him steady but you need to understand that this bond requires more than just emotional connection. You’ll need to continue living your life fulfilling your obligations, staying grounded yourself.”
Wei Ying blinked, confusion flashing through him. “What obligations?”
Lan Qiren’s voice took on a firmer tone. “Your studies, for one. You still have a future ahead of you, Wuxian, and we expect you to continue your classes at the university. Wangji would never forgive himself if your bond became the reason you abandoned your goals.”
Wei Ying felt a strange mix of relief and anxiety at those words. He had assumed that the Lan family might expect him to shift his entire focus onto Lan Zhan, but hearing them speak about his education, about his future, reminded him that they still saw him as an individual. As someone with his own life to live.
“I’m not going to drop out of school,” Wei Ying replied, his tone more confident now.
Lan Qiren nodded approvingly. “Good. You’ve shown remarkable intelligence and creativity in your studies. We expect you to continue pursuing them. Art history, philosophy, fine art... all of these are your path, and it’s important that you stay on it.”
Lan Xichen’s smile was softer now, though the seriousness of the conversation remained. “That also extends to your connection with the Wens. You have a bond with them, too, and we wouldn’t ask you to sever it. But balancing that with your bond to Wangji it will take time.”
Wei Ying felt warmth spread through his chest at the mention of the Wens. Wen Popo, Wen Qing, Wen Ning, and A-Yuan had been his family long before the Lan family had entered the picture. Knowing that the Lans weren’t asking him to distance himself from them brought him a sense of relief.
“I won’t leave the Wens behind,” Wei Ying said quietly. “They’re my family, too.”
Lan Qiren’s gaze softened just a fraction. “We understand that but you must be prepared to navigate both worlds, Wuxian. The bond you share with Wangji is strong, but it cannot be your only focus.”
Wei Ying’s chest tightened as he processed their words. It wasn’t just about being Lan Zhan’s partner, about keeping him steady it was about maintaining balance in his own life, about making sure he didn’t lose sight of who he was outside of the bond.
“I understand,” Wei Ying said, his voice firmer now. “I’ll keep up with my studies, and I’ll make sure the Wens stay part of my life. I won’t let the bond take everything away.”
Lan Xichen’s expression brightened, the tension in the room easing slightly. “That’s all we ask. You’re part of this family now, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up the things that matter to you. We only want to make sure you have the strength to balance it all.”
Wei Ying let out a slow breath, nodding as the weight of the conversation began to settle. He had always been fiercely independent, always determined to carve out his own path and now, even with the bond tying him to Lan Zhan, he realized that he didn’t have to give up his goals he just had to work harder to maintain that balance.
“I’ll keep him steady,” Wei Ying said softly, his voice quiet but resolute. “And I’ll keep myself steady too.”
Lan Qiren nodded, his sharp gaze lingering for a moment longer. “That’s all we ask, Wuxian.”
Wei Ying sat with his arms crossed, waiting for Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren to explain what had driven them to such extreme actions. He wasn’t naïve there was clearly more going on here than just Lan Zhan’s rut and their bond.
Finally, Lan Xichen broke the silence. “Wuxian, I know this hasn’t been easy. The way we handled things... it was drastic.”
Wei Ying raised an eyebrow, frustration sharp in his voice. “Drastic? You mean drugging me, dragging me off to some cell, and leaving me to wake up in the middle of Lan Zhan’s rut? Yeah, I’d call that drastic.” Beneath the sarcasm, though, there was a flicker of unease. He still didn’t understand why things had unfolded the way they had.
Lan Qiren’s gaze remained steady, though his tone was firm. “It wasn’t a decision we made lightly.”
Wei Ying leaned forward, his frustration bubbling over. “Then why do it at all? Why not warn me? Why not give me the chance to make my own decisions?”
Lan Xichen exchanged a brief glance with Lan Qiren before speaking again, his voice calm but serious. “We didn’t have time. There was something you didn’t know about.”
Wei Ying’s eyes narrowed. He had sensed something was off that day at the restaurant, when he had returned from the bathroom and found the Lans on edge. He hadn’t pressed them, thinking it was just another awkward moment but now, it seemed there had been more to it.
“What did you hear?” Wei Ying’s voice was quieter now, but there was still a sharp edge to it. “What was so urgent that you thought kidnapping me was the only option?”
Lan Qiren’s voice cut in, calm but direct. “The Jiangs.”
Wei Ying froze. His breath caught in his throat at the mention of their name. He hadn’t left the Jiangs by choice he had been thrown out, beaten by Madam Yu when she had decided he was a threat to her son. His years under their control were filled with manipulation, cruelty, and pain. The memories of his last days with them were still raw.
“What about them?” Wei Ying asked, his voice tight. He dreaded the answer, but he needed to know.
Lan Xichen leaned forward slightly, his expression softening. “We overheard them, Wuxian. The Jiangs were talking about you. Their plans.”
Wei Ying’s heart began to race, alarm flickering in his chest. “Plans? What plans?”
“They were making threats,” Lan Xichen explained, his tone gentle but serious. “They weren’t going to let you go so easily. Even after what happened, they had... ways to bring you back.”
Wei Ying’s breath quickened. He had overheard Madam Yu’s insults that day her usual complaints about him, always bitter and cutting but this? He hadn’t realized the Jiangs’ hold on him went deeper than cruel words. He hadn’t known they still had plans to pull him back into their control.
Lan Qiren’s gaze hardened. “You only heard part of the conversation. They were discussing how they could bring you back under their control, how to make sure you could never truly escape. Given your history with them, we couldn’t allow that to happen.”
Wei Ying felt the world tilt beneath him. He had known the Jiangs were possessive, that they had never really considered him as family only someone they could use. Hearing they had schemes in place to reclaim him, after all they had done, was more than he had imagined.
“So that’s why...” Wei Ying’s voice cracked slightly as the pieces began to fall into place. “That’s why you took me.”
Lan Xichen nodded, his expression regretful. “We couldn’t let them get to you first, Wuxian. We had to protect you, no matter what it took.”
Wei Ying let out a shaky breath, the tension inside him unraveling. He hadn’t known. He had spent so long trying to move forward, to live freely, that he hadn’t seen the threat looming behind him. The Lan family had stepped in not just for Lan Zhan, but to keep him safe.
Lan Qiren’s voice remained steady as he continued. “Wangji chose you and with that choice came responsibility not just for him, but for you. The Jiangs won’t stop, and we had to act.”
Wei Ying swallowed hard, the enormity of the situation pressing down on him. He had thought the kidnapping was all about Lan Zhan’s rut and him losing control of his alpha instincts but it had been more than that. It had been about protecting him from the Jiangs, from a threat he hadn’t fully understood.
“You should have told me,” Wei Ying whispered, his voice breaking slightly. “You should have told me what was happening.”
Lan Xichen’s expression softened, regret flickering in his eyes. “We didn’t think you’d believe us. There wasn’t time to explain everything, and if the Jiangs had found out that we knew, they might have acted faster.”
Wei Ying clenched his fists in his lap, trying to control his emotions. He understood their reasoning, but it didn’t erase the sting of being taken without any warning. Waking up in that cell had stripped him of his control, no matter how justified the Lan family’s actions had been.
“I would’ve listened,” he muttered, though even he wasn’t sure he believed it. He had always been headstrong, insistent on doing things his own way. If they had tried to warn him, he might have pushed back, refusing to see the danger.
Lan Qiren’s voice broke through his thoughts, firm but not unkind. “Perhaps. We acted because it was necessary, Wuxian. The Jiangs won’t stop, and now, with Wangji’s choice, you’re even more at risk.”
Just as Wei Ying’s breath began to quicken, the bond between him and Lan Zhan pulsed a warm, steady presence cutting through his rising panic. He felt Lan Zhan approaching, his alpha’s protective instincts seeping through their connection.
Then, the door opened, and Lan Zhan stepped inside.
Lan Zhan’s presence shifted the atmosphere immediately. His gaze swept over Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren, but his focus quickly landed on Wei Ying. Without hesitation, Lan Zhan moved to his side, his tall frame standing protectively beside him.
Lan Zhan’s hand rested gently on Wei Ying’s shoulder, and through the bond, Wei Ying felt the soothing wave of calm that came with his alpha’s touch. The warmth of their connection eased the tightness in his chest, grounding him in the moment.
“Wei Ying doesn’t need this right now.” Lan Zhan said, his voice calm but unyielding.
Lan Xichen’s expression softened, but he didn’t back down. “He needed to understand, Wangji.”
Lan Zhan’s grip on Wei Ying’s shoulder tightened slightly, his possessiveness clear. “He doesn’t need to face it alone.”
Wei Ying looked up at Lan Zhan, feeling the intensity of his alpha’s gaze. The bond pulsed between them, steady and grounding, Lan Zhan’s protective instincts flowing through their connection. It was as if nothing else mattered but keeping Wei Ying safe.
Before anyone could say more, Lan Qiren’s phone buzzed, the sharp sound cutting through the tension. He frowned as he pulled it from his pocket, his expression darkening as he listened to the caller.
“What did you say?” Lan Qiren’s voice sharpened, his gaze flicking toward Wei Ying. “Jiang Yanli?”
Wei Ying’s stomach dropped. His breath caught in his throat as dread twisted inside him. Jiang Yanli... Why would she be looking for him now?
Lan Qiren ended the call, his expression grim. “The Wen Matriarch just called. Jiang Yanli showed up at the café... asking for you.”
Wei Ying sat in silence, Lan Qiren’s words sinking in.
The mention of Jiang Yanli’s name sent a familiar jolt of unease through his chest. Jiang Yanli. Her soft voice, her gentle touch, those things had comforted him. Now, all he could feel was bitterness. She hadn’t protected him when it mattered. None of them had. They had all stood by as Madam Yu beat him and threw him out, as Jiang Wanyin looked on without lifting a hand to stop it.
Lan Zhan’s hand on his shoulder tightened, the warmth of his presence steadying Wei Ying as his mind swirled with memories he’d rather forget. Through the bond, he felt Lan Zhan’s quiet reassurance, that ever present calm his alpha provided.
Lan Qiren spoke again, his tone low but grave. “It will not just be her. If Jiang Yanli is there, the others they won’t be far behind.”
Wei Ying clenched his fists in his lap, a mix of anger and anxiety curling in his chest. Of course, they wouldn’t let this go. The Jiangs had always believed they had some kind of ownership over him, some claim they refused to relinquish. They had discarded him. They had thrown him out when he was no longer useful to them.
“I need to face them,” Wei Ying finally said, his voice quiet but steady. He wasn’t that discarded and beaten down boy anymore. He had grown, and he had found people who truly cared about him Lan Zhan, the Lans, the Wens. This time, he wouldn’t face the Jiangs on their terms. He would face them on his own.
Lan Zhan’s golden gaze locked onto him, steady and full of unyielding support. “You won’t face them alone.”
The firm resolve in Lan Zhan’s voice brought a warmth to Wei Ying’s chest, but beneath it all, there was guilt. He could feel through the bond how much Lan Zhan had been soothing him, calming his turbulent emotions and here he was, dragging Lan Zhan into the mess of his past.
“I’m sorry,” Wei Ying whispered, his voice tight. “For bringing you into all of this...”
Before he could continue, Lan Zhan shook his head. “You have nothing to apologize for Wei Ying.”
The words were spoken with such certainty, such unwavering resolve, that Wei Ying could only nod, his throat tight with emotion. Lan Zhan didn’t blame him. Lan Zhan had chosen him, and he wasn’t going to let anything least of all the Jiangs come between them.
Lan Xichen, who had been watching silently, stepped forward, his voice gentle but firm. “We’re coming with you.”
Wei Ying blinked in surprise, looking between Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren. “You don’t have to ”
Lan Qiren cut him off, his voice stern but filled with the same quiet protectiveness. “We protect our own.”
Lan Xichen smiled softly. “This isn’t just your fight, Wuxian. We’re family now. The Jiangs have no claim over you, and they will understand that.”
The weight of their support washed over Wei Ying, leaving him momentarily speechless. Family. The Jiangs had once used that word as a leash to keep him bound to them, but now, with the Lans, it held a different meaning. This family wasn’t using him they were standing by him, truly protecting him.
“Thank you,” Wei Ying murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. He wasn’t alone in this fight.
Lan Zhan’s hand remained firm on his shoulder, and Wei Ying felt the steady pulse of their bond. Together, with Lan Zhan, Lan Xichen, and Lan Qiren, they would face the Jiangs. This time, he wouldn’t be standing alone.
The ride to the café was silent, the weight of the upcoming confrontation heavy in the air. Wei Ying stared out the window, his thoughts a whirl of memories of the Jiangs. He had once believed that they were his family but family didn’t beat you and toss you aside like waste just because your success outshone theirs, even when you tried to give them all the credit.
Beside him, Lan Zhan sat quietly, his presence a calming force. Wei Ying could feel the steady pulse of their bond, the soothing undercurrent of Lan Zhan’s emotions helping him keep the rising anxiety in check. Lan Zhan had been a constant through everything, standing by him, calming him, protecting him. Now, as they neared the café, that steady support grounded Wei Ying, reminding him that he didn’t have to face this alone.
As the car pulled up in front of the café, Wei Ying felt a surge of nerves tighten his chest but when he glanced to the side, he saw Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren, both of whom had come with them. They stood by him now, ready to confront the Jiangs, not just for Lan Zhan’s sake, but for his as well.
Wen Popo stood outside the café as they approached, her sharp eyes flicking over them before she gave Wei Ying a brief nod. She didn’t say anything, but the look in her eyes was enough she was on his side, ready to support him however needed.
"She’s waiting inside,” Wen Popo said quietly, her sharp eyes flicking toward the café door. “I cleared the place out. The rest of the Jiang clan will show up soon enough to cause a scene. For now, it’s just Jiang Yanli."
Wei Ying nodded, though the knot of tension in his chest only tightened. He had expected this moment for so long the confrontation with Jiang Yanli, the confrontation with everything she represented. For so many years, her soft words and gentle smile had been a comfort. Now, he saw it for what it was manipulation, a mask to hide the control she had over him.
He took a deep breath and pushed the door open, Lan Zhan following closely behind.
Inside, the café was eerily quiet, the stillness broken only by the sight of Wen Qing and Wen Ning standing near the entrance. Their presence anchored the room, their expressions unreadable. Behind them, Jiang Yanli sat at a table, her hands folded neatly in her lap, her serene expression as familiar as ever. For a brief moment, it felt like stepping back into the past but Wei Ying quickly pushed that feeling aside he wasn’t that boy anymore, the one who once sought comfort in her fleeting warmth.
Jiang Yanli stood as they entered, quietly lifting a basket from beside her and placing it on the table. “A-Xian…” Her voice was soft, her smile as gentle as ever, but Wei Ying saw through it now. As she spoke, she began to pull out a familiar container, the fragrant aroma of her lotus and pork rib soup filling the room. “I’ve been so worried about you.”
Wei Ying felt the words hit him like a wave of cold water, but he kept his expression calm. “Worried? Or is this about something else?” His voice was steady, but then the familiar smell of the soup hit him, nearly making him gag. What had once been comforting now only left him with distaste.
He wrinkled his nose slightly. “Bringing outside food into a café, Jiang Yanli? I’m sure they appreciate that.”
Before Jiang Yanli could respond, Wen Qing stepped forward, her tone firm. “That soup has to go. This isn’t the place for it.”
Wen Ning gave a small nod. “We’ll need to remove it. It’s against the café’s rules.”
Wei Ying glanced at Jiang Yanli with a faint smirk. “See? Told you.”
Jiang Yanli blinked, her smile faltering for just a moment before it returned, as polished as ever. She carefully lifted the basket and handed it over to Wen Qing, her movements slow and deliberate. “A-Xian, you don’t understand. A-Cheng he’s been beside himself. We’ve all been worried about you. You disappeared without a word. We want to bring you home.”
The words, like the smile, were practiced, but Wei Ying could see the cracks beneath the surface.
Wei Ying scoffed, his lips curling into a bitter smile. “Jiang Wanyin’s been looking for me? That’s strange, considering he found me right here over a couple of weeks ago.”
He clenched his fists at his sides, keeping his voice steady. “You don’t mean you’ve been worried. You mean you want to bring me back. After everything that happened... you really think I’d want that?”
Jiang Yanli’s eyes softened, her tone gentle, as if she could soothe away the truth. “A-Xian, you don’t understand. A-Cheng was angry, yes, but it was because he was hurt. We’re family. You belong with us.”
Belong. That word grated against him like sandpaper. How many times had the Jiangs used it to manipulate him, to keep him tethered to them even after they’d cast him out? His jaw tightened. “You don’t get to decide where I belong.”
Wei Ying felt Lan Zhan’s presence beside him, a steady force that kept him grounded as Jiang Yanli’s words tried to burrow their way under his skin. Through the bond, he could feel the quiet intensity of Lan Zhan’s emotions the protectiveness, the possessiveness. Wei Ying wasn’t facing this alone anymore.
Before Jiang Yanli could respond, the door to the café swung open again, and the sound of heavy footsteps echoed through the room.
Jiang Wanyin stormed into the café, his expression a mask of barely contained fury, eyes blazing as they locked onto Wei Ying. Madam Yu followed closely behind, her sharp gaze immediately locking onto Wei Ying like a predator cornering its prey, while Jiang Fengmian lingered at the entrance. They knew where to find Wei Ying they always had but this wasn’t just a confrontation. It was a claim.
“So this is what you’ve settled for,” Jiang Wanyin spat, his voice thick with bitterness. “Running off to the Lans like a coward. You think you can just hide away here, pretending none of it matters? After everything we did for you, you owe us more than this.”
Wei Ying’s heart clenched, but he stood his ground, though Lan Zhan's posture stiffened his steady presence by Wei Ying's side a constant reminder that he wasn’t alone. The bond between them pulsed with quiet strength, wrapping around Wei Ying like a shield. He wasn’t the helpless boy the Jiangs had once discarded he wasn’t their property anymore.
“I didn’t run,” Wei Ying said, his voice cool and composed. “You threw me out, Jiang Wanyin. Don’t act like I abandoned you.”
Jiang Wanyin’s face twisted in rage. “We threw you out because you left us no choice! You were always reckless, always causing problems and now you think you’re better than us? You’re just running away because you don’t have the guts to face your responsibilities.”
The accusations rang out, but Wei Ying didn’t flinch. The words might have once cut deep, but now they felt hollow. The Jiangs didn’t own him. They never had.
Before he could respond, Madam Yu’s voice sliced through the air like a blade. “Ungrateful wretch! After everything we did for you, you repay us by crawling to the Lans like a spineless dog? You were never anything without us. You’ll come crawling back, just like you always do.”
The venom in her words was sharp, but Lan Zhan next to him kept Wei Ying grounded. He had no need to argue with them, no need to justify his life. He wasn’t the one running from the truth.
“You don’t get to decide what happens to me anymore,” Wei Ying said, his voice steady but firm. “You lost that right the day you threw me out.”
Jiang Wanyin opened his mouth to retort, but Jiang Yanli stepped forward, her voice soft and pleading. “A-Xian, please... We didn’t want it to come to this. A-Cheng’s been hurt by all of this he’s just angry but we’ve been so worried about you. We’ve always cared about you.”
Hearing her use that name the one that had once carried warmth made Wei Ying’s chest tighten. He had once believed in the comfort of her kindness, had clung to the idea that she cared for him. But now he saw it for what it was a chain meant to keep him bound to the Jiangs.
“You don’t get to call me that,” Wei Ying said quietly, his voice sharp. “Not after everything that happened.”
Jiang Yanli blinked, her hand half raised as if she wanted to reach out to him, but hesitated. Her eyes flickered over his face, and for the first time, she seemed to truly take in the changes. His features had softened, his hair longer, his whole presence different. The boy she had once known wasn’t the same anymore.
“You’ve... changed,” she said softly, her eyes filled with confusion.
Wei Ying’s lips curled into a small smile, one that held no warmth. “Yes, I have.”
For a moment, Jiang Yanli’s mask slipped, her surprise giving way to uncertainty. She had always thought of Wei Ying as the boy she could keep tethered to the family, but the person standing before her now seemed far beyond her reach. Her eyes flickered between him and Lan Zhan, as if trying to piece together what had caused the change.
Jiang Wanyin, however, was unmoved by the subtleties. His fury only deepened as he saw Wei Ying standing defiant before him. “You think running to the Lans is going to fix everything? You think they care about you more than we do? You’ll come back, Wei Wuxian. You can’t escape your responsibilities.”
Wei Ying felt his anger rise, but he forced himself to stay calm. Jiang Wanyin always believed he had the right to dictate Wei Ying’s life, but that was over. Wei Ying wasn’t his to control.
Before he could answer, Lan Zhan stepped forward, his presence radiating quiet dominance. His golden eyes burned with an intensity that left no room for doubt. The bond between them pulsed, steady and protective, wrapping around Wei Ying like a silent vow.
“Wei Ying isn’t going back with you,” Lan Zhan said, his voice low but filled with authority. “He belongs with me.”
Jiang Wanyin’s face twisted with rage, but beneath the anger, there was something else determination. He didn’t believe for a second that Wei Wuxian couldn’t be brought back under his control. He was certain that no matter how much Wei Wuxian had changed, he could still be pulled back into the Jiang family’s grip.
“You think this is over?” Jiang Wanyin growled, stepping forward, his fists clenched at his sides. “You think you can just take him and that’s it? He’s our family, not yours. He’ll come back he always does.”
Wei Ying’s chest tightened at the arrogance in Jiang Wanyin’s voice, but before he could respond, Lan Zhan’s grip on his arm tightened. The silent possessiveness in Lan Zhan’s touch sent a clear message he wasn’t going anywhere, not now, not ever.
“He’s not coming back,” Lan Zhan said, his voice a low growl. “Not to you.”
The finality in Lan Zhan’s words hung in the air, and though Jiang Wanyin’s face was filled with anger, it was clear that for the first time, doubt had begun to creep in but Wei Ying knew Jiang Wanyin wouldn’t give up easily. He never did.
The café was heavy with tension, the atmosphere almost suffocating. Wei Ying could feel the weight of Jiang Wanyin’s rage, Madam Yu’s disdain, Jiang Yanli’s and Jiang Fengmian's disappointment. But he wasn’t the same person they had thrown out he had grown, changed and now, he had people standing with him.
Wei Ying glanced toward the entrance and saw Lan Xichen and Lan Qiren stepping into the café, their expressions calm but resolute. Behind them, Wen Popo, Wen Qing, and Wen Ning stood silently, their eyes filled with quiet determination.
The Jiangs were surrounded.
Madam Yu’s lips curled into a sneer, her sharp gaze cutting through the room as if she still held the upper hand. “You think you can just walk away from the Jiangs? After everything we did for you?” She spat the words with venom, her voice dripping with condescension. “You were nothing when we took you in. You owe us everything.”
Wei Ying’s jaw tightened, but before he could respond, Lan Zhan stepped forward, his body shielding Wei Ying from the venomous woman’s gaze. His golden eyes were dark with warning, his voice low and dangerous. “Wei Ying owes you nothing.”
Madam Yu’s eyes narrowed, but before she could retort, Jiang Wanyin’s voice cut through the room, filled with barely controlled fury. “You think the Lans can just take you and that’s it? You’ll always belong to the Jiangs you can’t escape that.”
Wei Ying’s chest tightened with anger, but he remained calm. “I don’t belong to you,” he said firmly, his voice steady. “I belong where I’m wanted. Where I’m valued for who I am not for what I can do for you.”
Jiang Wanyin’s fists clenched at his sides, the muscles in his jaw working as he ground his teeth. “You think they care about you? You think they’ll keep you once they realize what you’re really like?”
Before Wei Ying could respond, Madam Yu’s sharp voice cut through the air again, her eyes narrowing as she took in Wei Ying’s changed appearance. “You look different,” she sneered, her gaze sweeping over him with disdain. “But it doesn’t matter. You’re still the same ungrateful, reckless fool you’ve always been.”
Wei Ying felt the anger bubbling beneath his skin. He didn’t need to prove anything to them anymore. He had already moved on.
“You’re wrong,” Wei Ying said, his voice calm but cutting. “I’ve changed. I’m not the person you threw out and I’m not coming back.”
Jiang Yanli, who had been silent for most of the confrontation, stepped forward, her soft voice filled with a practiced sorrow. “A-Xian... you don’t have to do this. We’ve always cared about you. Please, come back. A-Cheng... he’s just angry because he’s hurt. We can fix this.”
Wei Ying’s heart twisted at her words, but not in the way they once had. The name she used A-Xian felt foreign now, like a chain trying to pull him back into the past but the person she thought she knew wasn’t standing in front of her anymore.
“You don’t get to call me that,” Wei Ying said coldly. “Not after everything that’s happened. I’m not your A-Xian anymore.”
Jiang Yanli’s face faltered, confusion and disbelief flashing in her eyes. She had always believed that she could pull Wei Ying back, that her soft words and gentle smiles could bind him to the Jiangs forever. Now, standing before her was someone she didn’t recognize someone stronger, more independent.
Madam Yu’s sneer deepened, her lips curling in disgust. “You think you can stand there with your new family and forget everything we did for you? You’re nothing without us!”
At those words, Lan Zhan’s grip tightened around Wei Ying’s arm, and the air in the café thickened with his silent possessiveness. His golden eyes flashed with barely contained fury, his entire body radiating a quiet, lethal dominance.
“Wei Ying isn’t yours to take,” Lan Zhan growled, his voice low and dangerous. “He belongs with me now.”
Jiang Wanyin’s face twisted in rage, but he took a step forward, refusing to back down. “You think I’ll just let you take him? You think you can keep him? He’ll always come back to us.”
Lan Xichen stepped forward then, his calm voice cutting through the tension like a blade. “Wuxian has made his choice. He is part of our family now.”
Jiang Fengmian, who had remained silent until now, took a hesitant step forward. His voice, though softer than Madam Yu’s or Jiang Wanyin’s, carried a weight of authority. “A-Xian... you don’t have to cut ties with us completely. You can still be part of the Jiang family.”
Wei Ying’s eyes narrowed, the memories of his past with the Jiangs flashing through his mind memories of being used, manipulated, discarded. He wasn’t going back. Not now, not ever.
“No,” Wei Ying said firmly. “You threw me out. I don’t owe you anything.”
Madam Yu opened her mouth to argue, but before she could speak, Lan Zhan stepped forward again, his protective aura crackling with power. “This conversation is over,” he said coldly. “Wei Ying belongs with me.”
The finality of Lan Zhan’s words hung in the air like a sword, and for the first time, the Jiangs seemed to realize they were truly outmatched. The rage in Jiang Wanyin’s eyes didn’t fade. If anything, it deepened.
“You think this is over?” Jiang Wanyin growled, his voice shaking with fury. “You think you can just take him away from us?”
Lan Zhan’s golden eyes flashed dangerously. “Try and see what happens.”
The tension in the room was almost suffocating, the weight of the confrontation pressing down on everyone present but as Wei Ying stood between the Lans and the Wens, he felt a sense of strength he had never known before. He wasn’t alone anymore, and no matter what the Jiangs tried to do, they couldn’t take him back.
Not now. Not ever.
The tension in the café was suffocating, the air thick with unresolved bitterness and the weight of everything left unsaid. Wei Ying could feel Jiang Wanyin’s anger burning into him, but he stood firm. He wasn’t going back to them not after everything. He had Lan Zhan by his side now, and the bond between them pulsed with strength, steady and unwavering.
Jiang Wanyin’s voice was a low, dangerous growl. “You think this is over, Wei Wuxian? You think you can just run off and leave us behind? You’ll never escape you belong with the Jiangs.”
Lan Zhan moved beside him, his presence radiating a dark, menacing energy. His golden eyes blazed with quiet fury as his voice rumbled low and threatening. “You will not take him.”
The air crackled with unspoken tension, the declaration hanging like a blade poised to strike. Wei Ying could feel it an unmistakable shift beside him, the simmering intensity rolling off Lan Zhan. His presence had always been formidable, but now there was something raw, something primal just beneath the surface, stirring to life.
Lan Zhan's eyes darkened, the possessiveness in his gaze almost palpable. Every fiber of his being screamed to protect, to defend but the Jiangs didn’t sense it didn’t know what was truly standing in front of them.
They had no idea. Their arrogance blinded them, grossly underestimating the storm building right before their eyes, oblivious to the danger they were about to provoke.
Madam Yu’s sharp gaze cut through the room like a blade. “Wei Wuxian belongs to us,” she hissed, her voice dripping with contempt. “You think this little rebellion will last? You’ve defied us, boy, but you will come back to the Jiangs, whether you like it or not.”
Jiang Yanli stood beside her, her quiet presence hiding the steel beneath, while Jiang Fengmian’s eyes rested heavily on Wei Ying, a silent demand in his stance.
Lan Zhan’s growl rumbled low, his Alpha instincts flaring at the threat. His body was tense, coiled, ready to protect his Omega at all costs. But just as he moved, Madam Yu stepped closer, her venomous words aimed directly at him now. “You, Lan Wangji. Do you really think you can keep him? How long before Wei Wuxian regrets his choice? You can’t stop what’s coming.”
Her words were a calculated strike, designed to sow doubt and provoke him. Lan Zhan’s gaze narrowed, his attention shifting to Madam Yu, Jiang Yanli, and Jiang Fengmian as he prepared for their next move. He couldn’t afford to let his guard down, but the Jiangs were circling like wolves, and even a moment’s hesitation might cost him.
In that split second of distraction, Jiang Wanyin stepped forward, fury burning in his eyes. “Wei Wuxian you don’t belong here. You belong to us.”
Without hesitation, he surged toward Lan Wangji, his intent clear he was going to take Wei Wuxian back by force if necessary.
Wei Ying’s sharp eyes caught the shift in Jiang Wanyin’s stance, the violent tension building in his frame. Lan Zhan was too focused on the others to see it coming.
Before Jiang Wanyin could close the distance, Wei Ying moved. In a flash, he stepped in front of Lan Zhan, his hand shooting out to catch Jiang Wanyin’s wrist mid-strike, yanking him back with startling force.
“No you don't,” Wei Ying said coldly, standing firm between Lan Zhan and the attack meant for him.
Jiang Wanyin’s eyes widened in shock. “You dare ”
But before he could react further, Wei Ying twisted his body with lightning speed, driving Jiang Wanyin down to the ground. The café floor rattled with the impact as Jiang Wanyin hit the floor, Wei Ying pinning him with one knee driven into his chest. The air rushed out of Jiang Wanyin’s lungs, his eyes flashing with confusion and fury as he struggled beneath Wei Ying’s grip.
Wei Ying bared his teeth, a low growl rumbling from deep in his chest, primal and fierce. His voice, cold and biting, cut through the thick silence. “No one threatens my Alpha.”
Jiang Wanyin writhed, trying to break free, but Wei Ying’s grip held him fast. The power radiating from him wasn’t just physical it was the unyielding protectiveness that surged from the bond he shared with Lan Zhan. His eyes gleamed with a dangerous light, and the energy that crackled around him was wild, untamed.
Jiang Wanyin’s gaze flicked from Wei Ying to Lan Zhan, realization dawning in his eyes. “Wei Wuxian what’s gotten into you? You think you can protect him? You’re just ”
But his words faltered as his eyes drifted to Wei Ying’s neck. The mark.
He saw it the faint, raw outline of the claiming bite on Wei Ying’s neck, unmistakable now that he was close enough to see.
“You’re...” Jiang Wanyin stuttered, disbelief dawning in his eyes. “An Omega?”
Madam Yu’s eyes snapped toward them, narrowing sharply. “You’ve made him an Omega?” she spat, her voice laced with contempt. “You corrupted him?”
Wei Ying’s lips curled back into a sharp, dangerous smile. “Corrupted? No, Madam Yu. I was claimed.”
Then, as if on cue, Lan Zhan stepped forward, his body looming behind Wei Ying. His golden eyes, already filled with dark, predatory energy, flashed dangerously. He bared his teeth fully, the long, sharp fangs of an Alpha undeniable and terrifying.
The Jiangs reeled back in shock.
“He’s an Alpha?” Jiang Wanyin’s voice trembled with disbelief. “Lan Wangji ”
But before they could fully process the revelation, Lan Zhan’s voice, deep and menacing, cut through the room like a blade. “Wei Ying is mine,” he growled, his voice dripping with possessive fury. “If you try to come near him again, I will kill you.”
The silence that followed was suffocating, the weight of Lan Zhan’s words crashing over the Jiangs like a tidal wave. The threat wasn’t empty. The raw, violent energy emanating from Lan Zhan made it clear he would destroy anyone who dared threaten Wei Ying again.
Jiang Wanyin’s face twisted with rage, but he didn’t move. Madam Yu sneered, her contempt barely hiding her shock. “This is what you’ve lowered yourself to, Wei Wuxian? Being the pet of an Alpha?”
Lan Zhan growled again, his aura darkening. His teeth bared fully now, the bond between him and Wei Ying pulsing violently but before he could act, Wei Ying’s hand shot up, gently touching his arm.
“I’ve had enough of this,” Wei Ying said, his voice cold. He stepped forward, facing the Jiangs with an unyielding gaze. “You don’t get to call me family anymore. I am not yours.”
Jiang Yanli’s voice broke through the tension, soft and pleading. “A-Xian, please... come back. We just want you home.”
Wei Ying’s eyes hardened at the sound of the familiar name. The warmth it once held now felt hollow, empty. He shook his head. “Don’t call me that.”
Jiang Yanli blinked, startled by the coldness in his voice.
“You never cared,” Wei Ying continued, his voice low but filled with resolve. “You all wanted control. I was just another tool for the Jiangs. I’m not your A-Xian anymore. I belong with Lan Zhan, and there’s nothing you can do to change that.”
Jiang Fengmian, who had been silent until now, stepped forward, his voice filled with quiet desperation. “A-Xian, we never wanted things to turn out like this. You were part of our family ”
Wei Ying’s eyes flashed with anger. “Was. I was part of your family until you threw me out like I was nothing. You let her ” he pointed sharply at Madam Yu, “beat me and cast me aside.”
Jiang Fengmian’s face twisted with guilt, but before he could respond, Madam Yu’s sneer deepened. “You ungrateful ”
“Enough!” Lan Xichen’s voice rang out from behind them, firm and commanding. He stepped forward, Lan Qiren by his side, both of them standing tall, their calm but powerful presence cutting through the rising tension. “This ends here.”
Jiang Wanyin snarled. “You think we’ll just let you take him?”
Lan Qiren’s gaze was cold and sharp. “If you attempt to take him, there will be consequences. This is your final warning.”
Wen Popo’s voice cut through the tension, sharp and unwavering, as she stepped forward from where she had been standing. Wen Qing and Wen Ning flanked her, their expressions hard with quiet resolve. Wen Popo’s gaze swept over the Jiangs, her tone leaving no room for argument.
“You’ve already lost,” she said coldly. “Leave him, or the world will learn every secret you’ve fought so hard to bury.”
The Jiangs froze. They knew the truth in Wen Popo’s words the power she held, the influence the Lans wielded. If they didn’t back down now, they would lose everything.
Madam Yu’s sneer faltered, her sharp eyes flicking between the Lans and the Wens. Jiang Wanyin’s fists clenched at his sides, but even he knew when to retreat.
“This isn’t over, Lan Wangji,” Madam Yu hissed, her voice filled with venom. “You’ll regret this.”
Lan Zhan’s golden eyes gleamed dangerously. “Try,” he growled, his voice cold and lethal, “and it will be the death of the Jiang.”
Jiang Wanyin’s face twisted with rage, but they knew they had been outmatched. Without another word, the Jiangs stormed out of the café, but just before the door could fully close, Lan Xichen’s voice rang out, calm but chilling. “This is your last warning. If you attempt to contact Wuxian again, the consequences will be irreversible.” His golden gaze held theirs, unyielding.
Lan Qiren stepped forward, his voice cold and authoritative. “The next time you cross this line, you will not be walking away.”
Jiang Fengmian paused briefly, regret evident on his face, but when Wei Ying met his gaze, there was nothing left but silence between them. Without another word, the Jiangs left.
The door shut with finality, and the suffocating tension in the room began to ease, as though a heavy weight had finally been lifted.
Lan Zhan’s arm tightened around Wei Ying’s waist, pulling him close as the bond between them pulsed. “It’s over,” Lan Zhan murmured, his voice soft but filled with quiet certainty.
Wei Ying leaned into him, feeling the warmth of his Alpha. “For good this time,” he whispered, his voice laced with relief.
The tension that had coiled so tightly within him unwound at last, leaving him standing with the man who had promised to protect him. No more threats, no more uncertainty this was his family now. The Jiangs had no more claim on him, and they never would again.
Lan Zhan’s grip tightened slightly, his golden eyes soft but burning with that quiet intensity. “You belong with me now,” he whispered, his voice filled with certainty.
Wei Ying smiled softly, feeling the warmth of his Alpha’s presence. “And I’m not going anywhere.”
The room was finally quiet, the tension drained away, leaving only the faint hum of energy that always seemed to pulse between them. Wei Ying turned slightly, catching Lan Zhan’s gaze, and in that moment, everything else faded. The chaos of the Jiangs, the looming threats all of it seemed distant, unimportant.
There was only Lan Zhan.
Wei Ying knew he was exactly where he was meant to be.