It doesn't surprise him that the other man is strong, but he doesn't particularly like being manhandled. It brings up bad memories. Forgive him for assuring himself that there are no stairs nearby! Regardless, he fights to stay calm - outwardly, at least. Inside, his heart is hammering like a frightened animal.

"Nn..." he grimaces under the pinch and at the sound of the nickname, "I'm not sure about my motivations. Perhaps I should pay for it, but how can I do better, truly, if I don't understand it?"

Take on the responsibility, huh? His gaze is suddenly sharp, understanding the connection a bit too well.

"Is that how Wei Wuxian sees himself? What have you done to deserve such a verdict?"

The darkness in the other - so very absent the last time they met - hasn't gone unnoticed. He finds himself...intrigued. More than any decent man should be.

And then there is that smile. Meng Yao returns the expression sadly, brushing off his sleeves absently.

"I can only do my best."