Xichen allows himself to be led, arranging himself into a cross-legged position as gracefully as always, but the hand he settles on his knee still shivers slightly.
But the one he raises to touch Nie Mingjue's face, finally daring to touch back.
You have not lost my trust, or my loyalty.
Xichen lips tremble, fingers lowering to hover over his throat... then settle on one shoulder. Whole.
"Thank you." For all of it. The promise, as well as the trust... as well as the parts that Nie Mingjue doesn't wave off, doesn't just forgive because it is Xichen. Xichen knows far too well that he needs the accountability, and the sternness of it is as familiar and longed for as an embrace.
no subject
Xichen allows himself to be led, arranging himself into a cross-legged position as gracefully as always, but the hand he settles on his knee still shivers slightly.
But the one he raises to touch Nie Mingjue's face, finally daring to touch back.
You have not lost my trust, or my loyalty.
Xichen lips tremble, fingers lowering to hover over his throat... then settle on one shoulder. Whole.
"Thank you." For all of it. The promise, as well as the trust... as well as the parts that Nie Mingjue doesn't wave off, doesn't just forgive because it is Xichen. Xichen knows far too well that he needs the accountability, and the sternness of it is as familiar and longed for as an embrace.
A deep breath.
"What do you need from me?"