Work Text:
Mission 001
Zhou Zishu knew Wen Kexing even before he’d met him.
He’d heard the stories when he’d been in active service. The older agents talked down with disdain while the young blood was enraptured. A new kid who was doing everything faster and better than everyone before him.
And even when Zhou Zishu had gotten pulled back into the agency and re-assigned to a desk job of his choosing, the rumors had followed. It seemed that even organizations concerned with national security weren’t free of office gossip. A shared elevator ride was enough for an embellished retelling of Wen Kexing’s latest exploits. But while he’d never engaged in the small talk, admittedly, he was curious.
He listened carefully, took mental notes, and in the end, he received an opportunity to evaluate Wen Kexing on his own terms. It’d happened quickly on an uneventful Tuesday. Ye Baiyi stormed into his office, complained that there was no one left to handle Wen Kexing, and dumped the case file onto his desk before promptly walking out.
Despite the unceremonious start, he’d always been a diligent student, so he took it all in stride. It was a thick file, but he made quick work of it. The facts didn’t quite derail the image built by the rumors, and Zhou Zishu ended up reading it several times, because he was both thorough and appalled by the things Wen Kexing had gotten away with.
But although some of his stunts were new, Zhou Zishu had seen enough to understand who he’d be dealing with. The documents revealed Wen Kexing in detail. He was reckless, he had little regard for others, and of all things that the agency hated the most, he had a personality. The man had recognizable flaws, marked with red flags that were overlooked due to his efficiency. He got things done, and at the end of the day, that was all that mattered.
There was a knock at his door.
Han Ying peeked through just as Zhou Zishu pushed away Wen Kexing’s file. “Your two o’clock is here.”
“Let him in.”
Wen Kexing swept into the room, an appallingly large bouquet, and immediately settled across from Zhou Zishu. And before the door could close, he started their conversation by saying, “You’re much better looking than in your office photo.”
Han Ying stood gaping at the doorway.
“I hope you like the flowers,” Wen Kexing continued, ignoring his stunned audience and moving forward like a force of nature. He set the flowers on Zhou Zishu’s desk, taking care to avoid the stack of folders at its center but cramming it directly between the laptop and Zhou Zishu’s tea. “I was told you’re particular about manners.”
“Were you raised by wolves?” Zhou Zishu glanced at Han Ying, who was still frozen in shock. Their eyes met, and he dismissed him with a wave of his hand. He didn’t think his secretary could take much more.
“No, but the trainers at the academy come close.” Wen Kexing smiled and folded his hands across his lap. “But let’s talk less about them, and more about you.”
“We’re not here to talk about me.” Zhou Zishu replied. He took in his crowded desk and relocated the flowers to the edge of his desk. Order restored, he pushed a folder towards Wen Kexing. “As I am working with the agency as a consultant, I will be providing you with –“
“I’ve heard a lot about you.”
Zhou Zishu ignored the weight of Wen Kexing’s curiosity. He kept a straight face. “Did you?”
“I did, but it wasn’t much, because unlike you, I couldn’t find a file with every little detail about me.” Wen Kexing paused, “For someone who’s just a consultant, so much about you is hidden.”
“Information is given on a need-to-know basis.” And because Wen Kexing was still looking at him expectantly, Zhou Zishu added, “If you can’t find what you need, maybe you’re not as good at your job as you think.”
“You’ve read my file. You know I’m good at what I do.”
“I’ll form my own conclusions as we work together.”
“But how can we work together if I don’t know anything about you?” Wen Kexing asked. He let out a dramatic sigh and shook his head. “Aren’t the best relationships founded on mutual trust? We need to -”
“I think you’re confusing friendship with cooperation.” Zhou Zishu cut in. He pushed the ignored folder forward. “I’m not here to be your friend. I’m here-”
“To be a consultant.” Wen Kexing replied, his disdain evident as the word rolled off his tongue. He picked up the folder and tested its weight, “Not a fan of e-mail?”
“Just open the folder.”
Wen Kexing finally fell silent as he flipped through the folder. The quiet was a welcome reprieve, giving Zhou Zishu time to reassess the man across him. Wen Kexing was proving some of his expectations to be right, but he was also more difficult than anticipated.
It’d only been ten minutes, and in that time, Wen Kexing had scandalized his secretary and broken well-established rules on appropriate workplace relations.
The calm was interrupted by Wen Kexing shutting his folder.
“I can see that you’re detail-oriented.” He tossed the folder aside and ignored Zhou Zishu’s disapproval. “Can’t say I’m surprised, considering the work that you deal with. Based on the general orderliness of your office and the thoroughness of your work, I can safely assume that you’ve already read everything there is to know about me.”
“Don’t twist your brain into knots.” Zhou Zishu felt like rolling his eyes. Wen Kexing was obviously the type who liked to hear himself talk.
“I appreciate your concern, but it’s not necessary.” Wen Kexing gestured for him to speak, “If you’re tired of hearing me talk, why don’t we talk about you?”
“I’m hardly as interesting as you think I am.”
“Then if that’s the case, why don’t you tell me something about yourself?”
Propriety be damned, Zhou Zishu brushed the bouquet off his desk. “I’m allergic to flowers.”
Wen Kexing didn’t miss a beat. “Do you need mouth to mouth?”
“Your file didn’t say that you’d skipped basic first aid training.” Zhou Zishu shot back. “Would you like to retake it? I can make a recommendation.”
“As long as you’re there too.” Wen Kexing winked. “Though, while we’re on the topic of my file, I’m sorry to tell you that certain things were left out.”
“Such as?”
“My height might be off by a few centimeters. My weight changes too. Actually, why don’t we do a physical right now – “
“Do you want me to throw you out?” Zhou Zishu asked.
“I wouldn’t say no to having your hands on me.”
“Get out.”
Zhou Zishu grabbed the folder and practically shoved it at Wen Kexing. “And, for your information, if you checked your e-mail, which I know you didn’t, I sent you this one week ago.” He buzzed for Han Ying.
“I just wanted to get to know you better,” Wen Kexing replied as he got out of his seat, apparently satisfied with having pushed enough buttons for the day. The door opened, and Han Ying stepped through, his eyes darting between the two of them. Zhou Zishu waved him in.
“I just don’t think it’s fair that I’m so disadvantaged in this relationship.”
“I suppose you’ll just need to work harder.” Zhou Zishu replied.
“For you? Trust me, I will.” Wen Kexing promised just before an awkward but determined Han Ying herded him out of the room.
Mission 002
“You missed the part of the test when I was shirtless.” Wen Kexing greeted as Zhou Zishu entered the empty training room. He was seated on the mats, his long legs outstretched and his demeanor more fitting for a high school gymnasium than a government facility.
Zhou Zishu stopped in front of him and crossed his arms. “How do you feel?”
“Better, now that you’re here.” Wen Kexing tilted his head back for a better look. If it wasn’t for the hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips, he would’ve been a perfect picture of innocence. “Did you miss me?”
“It’s been less than a week since our last meeting.”
“That’s not a no.”
“No, I did not miss you.” Zhou Zishu clarified. “I’m here for the debriefing. You’ll need to explain some of the decisions you made.”
Wen Kexing sighed. “You were an agent.” He paused, as if waiting for Zhou Zishu to contradict him. When nothing came, he continued, “When things go south, what’s there to explain? Instincts take over. You try not to die, and sometimes things get blown up in the process. I’m not going to be able to give answers that satisfy the investigation board.”
Zhou Zishu had to give him credit. Wen Kexing, for all his lack of control, could put on a good front when he wanted to. He’d traded his façade of innocence for a tired expression and completed his look with slumped shoulders.
“You took someone’s car when you had an issued vehicle.”
“Mine was too far.”
Zhou Zishu shot him a look. “I suppose the fact that the other car was a Ferrari is irrelevant?”
Wen Kexing dropped his act and smirked. “Like I said, my car was too far. If I’d gone for it, then the mark would’ve gotten away.”
“You slept with his son, which was unnecessary.” Wen Kexing opened his mouth to defend himself, but Zhou Zishu pressed on. “Don’t try to say you needed information. I gave you everything you needed, and the son knew absolutely nothing about his father’s business. Your little distraction made him late for his meeting with his father, and –“
“Gave me everything I needed?” Wen Kexing cocked his head to the side. “Why, A-Xu, are you jealous? You don’t need to worry, I was thinking of you the whole time.”
“I don’t know why I bother.”
“Aside from my pleasing personality, I hear you’re paid quite well to do so.” Wen Kexing winked. “You should try befriending someone from accounting. They’ve got so much more imagination than people give them credit for.”
“Do you think they’ll still like you after they find out that taxpayer money is going to an asshole with a destroyed Ferrari?”
Wen Kexing shrugged. “Taxpayer money has been used for worse.” He framed his face with his hands and fluttered his eyelashes. “Besides, my good looks and personality will be enough to win them back over, don’t you think?”
“Will your good looks and personality help you pass your psych evaluation?” Zhou Zishu asked.
“Does it matter?” Wen Kexing asked, all traces of good humor shuttered away. After an extended minute, he finally looked elsewhere. “No well-intentioned soul should be giving me a passing score, yet I’ve been sent back to the field every time.”
There was nothing Zhou Zishu could say. Wen Kexing was right.
Everyone knew that the test was a mere formality. Even in his worst moments, Zhou Zishu had never been pulled off the field. Regardless of his physical or mental condition, as long as someone thought he was useful, there’d be a mission waiting for him.
Yet despite his own personal history and his wealth of knowledge, he’d come back. And maybe it was naivety that had made him return. A misguided hope that maybe he could make things better, even if the powers at large and systems in place were actively working against him.
“I was supposed to be charming you, not sending you into an existential crisis.” Wen Kexing huffed then held out his hands expectantly. ”Help me up?”
Zhou Zishu complied and pulled.
But just as Wen Kexing found his footing, he let go. The sudden shift in weight unbalanced Zhou Zishu. He stumbled, and Wen Kexing grabbed him. His arms snuck around Zhou Zishu’s waist, then he squeezed. Zhou Zishu realized too late that he’d been played, but before he could knock Wen Kexing down, the man was already out of reach.
“Your health record didn’t have your waist measurements.” Wen Kexing teased as Zhou Zishu tried to tackle him. He was always just one step ahead, successful at evading every attempt to close their distance. “I just had to know –“
Someone cleared their throat. Wen Kexing’s eyes darted away, and Zhou Zishu seized the opportunity to deliver a smooth, sweeping kick, effectively knocking Wen Kexing off his feet and sending him tumbling to the floor.
Zhou Zishu would’ve felt more triumphant about the whole thing if Wen Kexing hadn’t been looking up at him so brightly. He couldn’t even muster a victorious smirk. It was like no matter what he did, he couldn’t shake Wen Kexing off.
“Just so you know,” Wen Kexing confided, still breathless from being knocked to the ground. “I’d do it again.”
The only words that Zhou Zishu could think of saying were fuck you, but he’d done enough damage to his professional reputation. So rather than saying anything, he shot Wen Kexing a withering look, collected the remains of his injured pride, and strode right past a completely unimpressed Ye Baiyi.
Mission 003
Despite the pleasant weather and the idyllic ambiance of the cliffside café, Zhou Zishu had better places to be. At the top of the list was his apartment. It had little by way of excitement, but he’d never been enthralled by adventure or glamour. He’d seen enough of it over the years.
On the other hand, Wen Kexing clearly enjoyed the luxury and extravagance that occasionally came along with their line of work. The current mission – an investigation of a high stakes poker game, suited him perfectly. He had the air of someone who belonged in any situation, and Zhou Zishu had front row seats to the performances that he put on daily. And while he personally preferred discretion over deceit, he found himself reluctantly impressed by Wen Kexing.
However, when it came to matters of punctuality, Wen Kexing consistently disappointed. It was like he lived to do the opposite of what he was asked. He failed to show up on time, wandering in and out like he lived in a different timeline entirely.
Today’s disregard for timeliness left Zhou Zishu in a pitiable state, the lone single diner in a sea of couples. And to make things worse, he hadn’t even arranged the day’s meeting. Wen Kexing had asked for the meeting last night, and he’d come to realize that agreeing to it was clearly a mistake.
Zhou Zishu sipped at his coffee irritably, his mind working through various forms of revenge. He didn’t know how or why Wen Kexing had chosen this location as their meeting spot, but he did know that he’d make him pay for it somehow.
“Just coffee? How disappointing.”
He turned his head, and in one swift movement, Wen Kexing leaned in for a quick kiss. “You never know who’s watching.” He whispered once he’d drawn back, deftly avoiding Zhou Zishu’s attempt to trip him before he could sit down.
“I’m sorry I’m late darling,” Wen Kexing announced as he took his seat, raising his voice so that others to hear. Their eyes met, and Zhou Zishu forced down his irritation for later. Despite his personal feelings, they were still technically working. He needed to play along.
However, that didn’t mean that he had to be too pleasant. He kicked Wen Kexing underneath the table as he passed him the café menu.
Wen Kexing didn’t flinch. Instead, he took Zhou Zishu’s hand. His thumb stroked against his knuckles in a gentle rhythm. As always, he was fully committed to playing his part. “Did you miss me?”
Zhou Zishu dismissed the question by looking away. If he had to put on a show, then he’d play his character according to how he felt. “Where were you?”
“I got distracted by a weekend market.” Wen Kexing withdrew his hand to reach for something. He rifled through his pocket then set the item down more forcefully than required. The dull thud drew Zhou Zishu’s attention, and he glanced at the box on the table. It was small enough to fit in a closed fist and wrapped around it was a plain piece of twine.
Wen Kexing nudged it forward.
“It’s for you.”
Zhou Zishu accepted the box warily. He was aware that a couple nearby was watching them with interest. They made a poor show of disguising their excitement over a potential engagement. He hesitated to open it, not wanting to attract more prying eyes, but he relented when Wen Kexing gestured for him to do so.
The whole situation was made worse by the expression on Wen Kexing’s face. His self-satisfied grin was indicated that he’d successfully put Zhou Zishu in another difficult spot. As Zhou Zishu untied the twine, he mulled over the ways he’d make Wen Kexing suffer. Maybe he’d have him shipped off to a distant mountain for at least a year, or maybe he’d force him into a series of workshops on proper workplace relations.
“Hurry.”
He glared at Wen Kexing, but the other just chuckled. A mix of dread and curiosity settled in Zhou Zishu’s stomach. He took a breath. It was best to get things over with. He removed the box’s lid and peered inside.
Inside was a seashell refrigerator magnet.
He didn’t know what he’d been expecting, but it certainly hadn’t been that.
“You look disappointed.” Wen Kexing teased, his amusement poorly hidden behind his glass of water. “It was a bit too soon in our relationship for a ring.”
Zhou Zishu ignored the quip and set the box aside. All things considered, a refrigerator magnet wasn’t the worst thing that Wen Kexing could’ve given him. There’d been that one time when Wen Kexing, fresh from a trip to Taiwan, had given him a penis cake.
“I was hoping for a plane ticket home.”
“A-Xu, my darling, my precious. We should be enjoying ourselves –“
“I think we should eat.” Zhou Zishu flagged down a nearby waiter.
He ordered with little fuss then was forced to watch as Wen Kexing drew the man into an extended conversation about café specialties and tourist locations. And to make things worse, Wen Kexing went out of his way to rope him into their discussion, asking him for his opinions on the waiter’s suggestions and for his feelings on their current itinerary.
It took around ten minutes before Wen Kexing allowed the man to get back to his job. Zhou Zishu watched the waiter as he walked away, reluctant to leave their table. He watched at the man took two more backward glances before disappearing into the kitchens. He had to shake his head. Yet another person had fallen prey to Wen Kexing’s charms.
He turned his attention back to his companion and was unsurprised to find that Wen Kexing was indifferent to what had just occurred. In the span of seconds, he’d taken on another mask. His eyes had drifted off to the horizon, and he seemed to be studying it with serious interest rather than with the eyes of a charmed tourist.
“I thought you said we should be enjoying ourselves.”
Wen Kexing glanced at him. But before he could offer an offhand comment that was probably both ridiculous and indecent, Zhou Zishu spoke first. “I’m flying back this afternoon.”
“That’s a pity.” Wen Kexing sighed and shook his head disapprovingly. “I haven’t even gotten the chance to see you in a swimsuit yet.” He received another kick to his shin. “Do I get to know why?”
“It’s confidential.”
“Of course it is.”
For once, Wen Kexing fell silent. Zhou Zishu didn’t bother to pry. He’d gained a better sense of the man over the past few months. All he needed to do was wait him out. In the meantime, he distracted himself by people watching. There were multiple stories being played out, with everyone caught up in their own lives and oblivious to the dangers that lurked nearby.
Their food arrived, and their waiter seemed disappointed by Wen Kexing’s lukewarm reaction. Zhou Zishu gave him a small smile, if only to comfort him, then thanked him for his service. As soon as he was gone, Wen Kexing spoke up. “Don’t you think it’s unfair?”
“What’s unfair?”
He made an offhand gesture. “That you can leave and go whenever you want.” Wen Kexing rested his chin on his hand. “You’re quite the mystery, and it bothers me that I can’t figure you out. And if this is the last time we meet, I’ll have to go out of my way to find you again.”
“I think that’s illegal.”
“I think I’ve been on good behavior for this entire trip.” He ignored Zhou Zishu’s disagreeing snort and leaned in closer. “Won’t you throw me a bone?”
“What do you want?” Zhou Zishu asked.
For some reason, he felt compelled to indulge Wen Kexing. They’d worked together closely for the last six months, but things could end just as easily as they’d started. And maybe it was the realization of how fleeting their time was, or the fact that their picturesque surroundings made it difficult for one to act unpleasantly, but in any case, he wanted to hear Wen Kexing’s request.
“Tell me something about yourself.” Wen Kexing asked. “I’ve heard what people have had to say, but I’ve never settled for being one of the others. I want to know something that they don’t.”
“That’s a tall order.” Zhou Zishu set his hand on the box beside him. “Do you really think that a refrigerator magnet is an equal trade? Truths don’t come cheap.”
Wen Kexing chuckled. “When it’s time to be shameless, one should be shameless.” He reached across the table to set his hand over Zhou Zishu’s. “Besides, it’s a pretty magnet. Probably the first one you’ve ever owned.”
It was an accurate guess, but not a truth that was worth confirming. Zhou Zishu considered his options as Wen Kexing’s thumb brushed over his knuckles gently. It’d been a long time since someone had handled him so carefully. But despite the warm weight of Wen Kexing’s gaze and the childlike curiosity that he emanated, Zhou Zishu couldn’t shake off his suspicions.
He’d seen enough to know that this was how Wen Kexing got what he wanted. He put on different masks, led people into a sense of security, and then unlocked their secrets. Every person he’d fooled had thought they’d been seeing his genuine self.
“Well?”
Zhou Zishu had never been a good judge of sincerity. He’d seen too little of it and was hardwired to expect the worst. But if there was one thing he knew, it was that the truth, in small doses, couldn’t hurt.
“I can’t cook.”
He watched as Wen Kexing’s expression slipped into a mix between amusement and ill-concealed frustration. Zhou Zishu smiled to himself and took advantage of the situation by taking his present, slipping it into his pocket, then standing up.
“As entertaining as it was to play babysitter, I have to go.”
Wen Kexing looked at him in disbelief. “You’re leaving already?” He gestured to their food and to their general surroundings. “You haven’t even finished your food. Who’s going to pay –“
Zhou Zishu cupped Wen Kexing’s cheek gently, rendering him speechless. The man’s skin was soft against his hand, and his cheeks were flushed the slightest shade of red. It was a new look for him to seem so naïve.
He smirked, “I told you the truth wouldn’t come cheap.”
And before another word could be said, he pulled away.
Mission 004
Wen Kexing burst through the door, and for the first time, Zhou Zishu was glad to see him.
However, despite the relief of finally having back up, Wen Kexing’s arrival was diminished by the fact that he was late. Most of the work was done. Zhou Zishu had already broken through his bounds, then killed or incapacitated his captors. They’d taken him to be a threat, but even their attempts to beat him into submission hadn’t been enough.
Like any predator, all he’d needed to do was wait. As soon as the opportunity had arrived, it’d been easy to fall back into the familiar patterns of violence. His body was built to break and to kill, and while retirement had cast a shadow on his efficiency, it couldn’t erase the habits of countless years.
But if there was one thing that he would’ve liked to leave in the past, it was the experience of being stabbed. Zhou Zishu glanced at his waist and winced. Adrenaline numbed the pain somewhat, but he was still staining his shirt with an amount of blood that would soon become worrying.
Wen Kexing rushed over to his side. He handled Zhou Zishu delicately, carefully peeling back stained fabric to get a better look at his wound. There were other injuries, bruises of varying shades that accompanied old scars, but Wen Kexing assessed him silently.
“I can walk.” Zhou Zishu muttered as he swatted at the other’s hands. “Let’s get out of here.”
“No kiss of gratitude?” Wen Kexing asked as he lifted him up. Zhou Zishu rolled his eyes but slung his arm over the taller man’s shoulders anyway.
“What gratitude? I did everything.” Zhou Zishu winced. The pain was getting harder to ignore, but he forced out a joke anyway. “As far as I’m concerned, you’re just a convenient set of crutches.”
Wen Kexing chuckled, “Would you prefer if I carried you instead?”
“Don’t even try it.”
“For once I’m going to have to agree.” Wen Kexing replied as they avoided rubble that obstructed their path. “If I’m going to have you in my arms, I’d rather we’d be in the bedroom.”
“The only place I’m going to be for the next few days is a hospital room.”
“Hospital rooms can be considered bedrooms.”
“You’re flirting with a dying man,” Zhou Zishu shook his head and forced a laugh. “Your standards are terrible.”
The banter was a helpful distraction, but his mind was still cataloguing the deteriorating state of his body. He was losing feeling in his waist, and it was getting harder to walk. He’d been deprived of food and water for over a day. At this point, he was running on sheer adrenaline and willpower.
“You’re not dying.” Wen Kexing muttered as he grasped Zhou Zishu closer. “You’re not dying on my watch, and secondly, you’re certainly not dying before we’ve gotten to –“
“Finish that sentence and I’ll shoot you myself.” Zhou Zishu warned, though his voice came out more pained than threatening.
“I don’t think you’re in a position to fight me.”
They came to a sudden stop. Footsteps and shouts echoed in the distance. They instinctively turned to each other, and Zhou Zishu spoke first “You need to let me go.”
Wen Kexing’s grip tightened. Even in dire situations, he was hardwired to do the opposite of whatever he was asked. “Just –“
“Let me go.” Zhou Zishu used his remaining strength to force himself out of the other’s hold. He stumbled, his feet unsteady and weak, and Wen Kexing immediately took him back into his arms. He led Zhou Zishu into a nearby room, and after checking that it was secure, they looked for the safest spot to hide.
“I’m not going to die.” Zhou Zishu said through gritted teeth as he was set onto the floor. They worked together carefully, positioning him behind debris and a knocked over filing cabinet. It wasn’t much, but it would have to do. The men’s voices were getting louder, a clear reminder that they were running out of time.
He grasped Wen Kexing’s wrist tightly and moved it away from his wound. There was nothing he could do. They studied each other in silence. Ignoring the fact that their hands were wet with blood, Zhou Zishu reached for Wen Kexing.
“You need to go.”
Wen Kexing looked down at their intertwined hands. When he lifted his eyes, his worried expression was gone. He’d put on another mask, one that Zhou Zishu knew well, and one that he’d worn many times before. It was no longer time for emotions – there was a job to finish.
“If you die, I’ll be disappointed.”
Wen Kexing straightened up and unholstered his gun. But before he left, he spared another glance, “Don’t go anywhere.”
“Trust me, I won’t.”
Not wanting to extend the moment, Zhou Zishu leaned against the wall and shut his eyes. He listened as Wen Kexing stepped out, and it wasn’t long until the familiar sound of gunshots sounded off.
All he could do now was wait.
Mission 005
Two weeks after he’d been discharged, a typical government administrator in a suit sat him down, presented him with a ridiculous sum of money to get back into active service and promised him that things would be different. His hours would be better, he’d get more protection. He’d get anything he wanted, all he needed to do was ask.
Zhou Zishu hadn’t needed time to think. He said no.
Everything moved quickly after that. He packed his things, settled his paperwork, endured an exit meeting with a perpetually ill-tempered Ye Baiyi, and promised an emotional Han Ying that they could still meet up outside of work.
However, it seemed like reassurances hadn’t been enough. In an uncharacteristically defiant move, Han Ying went against Zhou Zishu’s wishes and arranged a goodbye party.
All things considered, it didn’t end up awful. He was having a good time. Han Ying had chosen a bar close to the office, and a surprising amount of people attended. Even Ye Baiyi had shown up – more likely due to the free food than any sentimental feelings, but it felt right to have him there, making loud complaints and pretending like he wasn’t enjoying himself.
But while Han Ying had done his best, there was still something missing. And while Zhou Zishu was supposed to know better than to expect Wen Kexing, who was halfway across the world, he searched for him anyway.
It was a hope rooted in self-deception, and when he came up empty, Zhou Zishu’s desires dissolved into regret. He wasn’t second guessing his decision to leave the agency, but he’d hoped for a goodbye. If things had been different – if Wen Kexing hadn’t suddenly been re-assigned, if his contract had ended a bit later, maybe, just maybe they could’ve found closure for whatever they had become.
Not wanting to drag down the mood, Zhou Zishu excused himself. He shoved his hands into his coat and wandered aimlessly out into the streets. It was easy to take one step after another, to go wherever he wanted. There was a slight feeling of emptiness since he wasn’t working towards a particular goal, but he supposed he’d get used to that. Now that he was unemployed, he was free to go wherever he wanted. He had the time and the money. And in time, he’d find a new direction for his life.
“Leaving your own party?”
Zhou Zishu whirled around. Wen Kexing was standing a short distance away, his dark circles and tired smile illuminated by the street lights.
“What are you doing here?”
“Did you expect me to let you go so easily?”
Zhou Zishu chuckled. “I guess I shouldn’t have.”
In their past encounters, it’d been easy to keep his emotions in check. But now that their time together was ending, his resolve had crumbled. He was drawn into the other’s orbit, and Zhou Zishu moved forward before better judgment could reel him back into safety.
They met in the middle. Wen Kexing’s grin was fond, but it didn’t hide the marks of fatigue and the faded bruise on his cheek
“Is the old toad inside?” He asked.
“Of course.”
Wen Kexing huffed and glanced down at his feet. “He’s going to kill me.”
When he lifted his gaze, Zhou Zishu braced himself for what would come next. They’d gone on long enough – the past months had inflamed feelings that had once been at a simmer. Wen Kexing had been a constant during his recovery. With every visit, their gazes lingered longer, and casual touches turned intentional. And while he’d been afraid once, to be wanted in ways that were beyond his control, Zhou Zishu now realized that everything Wen Kexing wanted, he wanted too.
“Shall we go?”
Zhou Zishu didn’t hesitate. There was no other answer but yes.
--
There wasn’t any point to turning on the lights or giving Wen Kexing a tour of his apartment. It wasn’t likely that he was ever coming back. They were completely wrapped up in one another, parting only for the barest of seconds so that Zhou Zishu could push open his bedroom door.
The mattress creaked under their weight as they tumbled into bed. There was no room for denying what they’d both wanted for longer than either of them would admit. Wen Kexing pressed Zhou Zishu down, and his teeth dragged over the other’s throat, determined to leave a mark.
They were both impatient, and their hands fumbled with each other’s clothes. But Zhou Zishu worked faster, and as soon as he’d unbuckled Wen Kexing’s belt, he reversed their positions. He slipped out of reach and moved down, stopping only to press a kiss to Wen Kexing’s hip, before he pulled off the rest of his clothes.
He wrapped his hand around Wen Kexing’s cock then looked up, their gazes meeting in the dark. Wen Kexing widened his legs in turn, and he placed a palm behind Zhou Zishu’s neck, a light touch that lasted only seconds before he guided him closer.
Zhou Zishu’s kept his other hand at the other’s waist, then followed the leading movement, his eyes never leaving Wen Kexing’s as his lips wrapped around his dick.
Wen Kexing exhaled sharply, and Zhou Zishu took it as a sign to continue. He took him in deeper, his jaw aching slightly as he inched forward. Wen Kexing’s fingers twisted into his hair, the pain taking the edge off his own arousal.
It was a filthy, but he didn’t care. He’d take what he wanted. His head bobbed up and down, saliva and precome escaping from the corners of his lips as he took in more. He felt alive like this, Wen Kexing tensing and moaning underneath him while his hips rocked upwards, testing to see how far he could push.
“You’re so pretty,” Wen Kexing hissed. Zhou Zishu’s eyes flickered upwards, and that was enough to push all remaining self-control off the table. He gripped Zhou Zishu’s hair, giving only a few seconds of warning before he started to fuck Zhou Zishu’s open mouth. “We should’ve done this sooner.”
Zhou Zishu would’ve laughed if he could. Instead, he dug his fingers into Wen Kexing’s hip, rough enough to leave bruises. He was painfully hard now, and he shuffled awkwardly so he could kick off his own clothes then touch himself. His fingers were slick as his hand wrapped around his cock, and he stroked himself sloppily, trying to take off some of the pressure.
“I can’t –“ Wen Kexing was a mess underneath him. His hips were jerking more wildly now, and when he thought he was close, he faltered.
Zhou Zishu didn’t.
He sucked harder, his lips sliding in an obscene up and down movement which soon had Wen Kexing coming down his throat. Against better judgment he swallowed, his lips lingering slightly before he slowly pulled off.
Zhou Zishu’s voice was hoarse when he spoke. “Don’t expect that again.”
“But we’re not done just yet,” Wen Kexing breathed, taking only seconds to recover before he led Zhou Zishu into his lap. They kissed, Zhou Zishu barely holding on as he bucked his hips, chasing friction and release.
“Where’s your –“
“Drawer,” Zhou Zhishu lifted himself slightly so Wen Kexing could get the lube. He took deep breaths and watched as Wen Kexing rushed, coating his fingers but also spilling lube on the bed. He moved quickly, and it wasn’t long before they settled into their new position, Wen Kexing pressed up against the headboard, and Zhou Zishu astride his lap.
“Hurry up.”
Wen Kexing kissed the corner of his lips, distracting him just enough as he pushed in the first finger. Zhou Zishu hiked his legs up higher and tightened his grip. He was grinding his cock against Wen Kexing’s stomach, trying to get him to move faster, “Why are you so slow –“
A second finger pushed in and Zhou Zishu groaned, his eyes slipping shut and his head falling back. Wen Kexing sucked a mark against his exposed neck, “So impatient.” He teased, working him open carefully before he followed with a third finger.
Zhou Zishu clutched him tightly and surrendered to the slow torture. He knew his body well, and he knew he wouldn’t be able to take much more. But just as he was about to demand for them to move on already, Wen Kexing was moving him off his lap and reaching for a condom.
Even just a moment’s parting threw Zhou Zishu off balance. He was pleasure dazed, his body thrumming with arousal, and it was instinct that had him moving onto his hands and knees.
“Is this how you want it?” Wen Kexing asked, his breath hot against the delicate skin of Zhou Zishu’s neck. He draped himself over him, placed his hands around Zhou Zishu’s slim waist and pulled him closer.
“I want you to hurry up,” Zhou Zishu hissed, though the command lacked weight. He felt lightheaded and desperate, and when Wen Kexing finally pushed in, his knees practically buckled from relief. An arm wrapped around his waist reassuringly, and a soft kiss was pressed against the back of his neck.
Wen Kexing moved slowly, giving Zhou Zishu time to breathe as he pulled back then slowly rocked in a bit deeper. It was a torturous drag on his nerves, and Zhou Zishu clenched the bed sheets once Wen Kexing finally bottomed out.
“You don’t know how long I’ve wanted this.” Wen Kexing murmured, and he set another tender kiss against Zhou Zishu’s neck before finally picking up the pace.
He thrusted harder and faster, all the while keeping Zhou Zishu pinned against the mattress. It didn’t take long for him to find the right angle and pace. All Zhou Zishu could do was let go. His eyes were clenched shut, his face was pressed a pillow, and he could feel himself leaking against the sheets.
“This isn’t enough,” Wen Kexing breathed, his voice barely heard over the sound of his hips slapping against skin. Zhou Zishu’s responded by spreading his legs further, which Wen Kexing rewarded by wrapping his hand around the other’s cock.
“I’m close,” Zhou Zishu managed, his brain somehow finding the words as Wen Kexing fucked into him at brutal pace. He could barely breathe, his senses overwhelmed and his thoughts lost to lust. “Just –“
“Say please.”
“Fuck you –“
Wen Kexing bit down on the back of his neck, and that was enough to send Zhou Zishu spilling into his hand. He squeezed hard around Wen Kexing’s cock as he came, but that wasn’t enough for the other to follow. Zhou Zishu was dazed as Wen Kexing rolled him onto his back, manhandling him with messy fingers before he slipped his cock back into him, pushing himself back in greedily.
In this angle they could kiss, but it was hardly more than a rough press of lips. Wen Kexing had him practically folded in half, Zhou Zishu’s legs hooked loosely around his waist. It was almost too much, but it’d be over soon. Wen Kexing was panting into his ear, all rhythm lost as he buried himself deeper.
Zhou Zishu wrapped his arms around Wen Kexing’s neck, and their eyes met. And it was the softly whispered, “Come on,” that pushed him off the edge. He continued to thrust shallowly as he came, his body chasing the remains of pleasure as Zhou Zishu relaxed in his gasp.
When he was done, Wen Kexing pressed their foreheads together. They lingered in the aftermath of their choices, the weight of tomorrow lingering in the distance. Wen Kexing’s eyes were closed, but Zhou Zishu’s were opened. He gently touched the other’s cheek.
Maybe there were right words, but he didn’t know them.
So, when Wen Kexing’s eyes finally fluttered open, he closed the distance between them with a kiss and hoped that would be enough.
--
When Zhou Zishu woke up, Wen Kexing was getting ready to leave. The world had stopped for them for a second, but reality would have its way in the end. He’d quit, but Wen Kexing hadn’t. There were reports to be made and objectives to be achieved. And while Zhou Zishu had allowed himself a certain level of denial, he wasn’t naïve enough to ask Wen Kexing to drop everything for him.
“Your jacket’s by the door.”
Their eyes met from across the room.
Wen Kexing seemed startled at first but recovered quickly. “Thanks.” He picked up his jacket and hung it over his arm.
Zhou Zishu studied him as he gathered his things. Wen Kexing was almost fully dressed but was only barely presentable. His shirt was wrinkled beyond lines of propriety, and he’d barely brushed out his hair. And to complete the look, there was an unmistakable mark by his right collarbone.
He didn’t know what was running in the other’s mind. Wen Kexing had always kept certain secrets hidden better than others, but what Zhou Zishu did know was that he didn’t want or need an explanation. Whatever it was that kept Wen Kexing in service was clearly important to him. And while he’d long lost his personal dedication to changing the world, Zhou Zishu remembered what it was like to have such focus and determination.
“Stay safe.” Zhou Zishu said finally, trusting familiar words to convey all that he’d left unsaid.
Wen Kexing lingered in silence before he replied. “We’ll see each other again.” He made it sound like a promise.
Such earnestness deserved equal honesty, but old habits refused to die, and Zhou Zishu had already laid himself bare. If they were to part ways, it was better to leave with good memories, and if there was a chance to ruffle Wen Kexing’s feathers, he’d take it.
Zhou Zishu’s lips quirked into a smile as he leaned against the bed’s headboard, his arms crossed defiantly. “We’ll meet again if we’re fated.”
Wen Kexing chuckled. A weight seemed to slip off his shoulders, and in a few strides, he was back by the bed. He leaned down but stopped at the last second, their lips only centimeters apart. Zhou Zishu’s eyes fluttered shut instinctively. But when lips didn’t find his, he opened his eyes and found Wen Kexing studying him, his eyes alit with mischief and determination.
“Trust me, we are.”
And because words alone seemed insufficient, Wen Kexing sealed his promise with a kiss.
After Hours
Three months after they’d parted, Zhou Zishu found himself at Osaka International Airport, unsure of where to head next.
He’d drifted around Europe at first, taking the time to visit and appreciate cultural spots that he’d long ignored. He succumbed to tourist traps, drank too much wine, and bought more trinkets than he knew what to do with. After that, he’d crossed an ocean to New York, where he’d run into a jet-lagged Ye Baiyi and gotten roped into paying for several expensive meals. That had been enough to set him running again, and the timing had been just right to catch the tail end of cherry blossom season.
Time passed, and the flowers were no longer in bloom. It seemed to him that it was a clear enough sign to move on.
He glanced at his phone. All he had was potential destinations, none of which felt right. Maybe it was time to find a place to call home, but he didn’t even know where to start. He’d sold his old apartment, and he didn’t have family to go back to.
“So, where are we going?”
The voice was unmistakable. But because he’d always been one for certainty, Zhou Zishu had to confirm his suspicions. He looked up just as Wen Kexing drew close, brushing their arms together and immediately invading the other’s personal space. He peered at the list of locations on Zhou Zishu’s phone.
“Not what I had in mind.”
“And what do you have in mind?” Zhou Zishu asked, no longer able to fight back a smile. He had dozens of questions to ask, but at that moment, none of them seemed to matter.
Wen Kexing had an enormous grin on his face, a certain sign that days of unbothered, peaceful existence were now at an end. And in one swift movement, he snatched Zhou Zishu’s phone.
“A-Xu, do you trust me?” Wen Kexing asked.
“I don’t.” Zhou Zishu deadpanned.
Despite the lie, Wen Kexing only seemed more amused. He leaned in for a kiss, and while he’d never been one to for public displays of affection, Zhou Zishu relented. It was a soft press of lips against lips, too short and chaste to be fully satisfying, but enough for now.
Even when they parted, they remained angled towards each other, barely an arm’s length apart. Caught in their world, they ignored the bustle of crowds. But eventually, Wen Kexing could no longer stay skill. He tugged Zhou Zishu forward by his hand.
“Where are we going?”
Wen Kexing turned around. With their hands intertwined, and a smile that left no room for doubt, he repeated his question.
“A-Xu, do you trust me?”
This time, Zhou Zishu said yes.