Chapter 22 Baby Baby Baby

Chapter 22 Babe, Babe, Babe

Just a few days earlier, Shu Yangkuo wouldn't have been able to say something like that.

Shi Zai loved any emotion Shu Yangkuo showed toward him, and even this little bit made him happy, knowing it meant turmoil in the man's heart. Now, suddenly leading them toward the back of the temple, Shi Zai followed behind, his heart pounding uncontrollably. Watching from behind, the tall man held his head high, as if he had a big tail wagging happily, making Shi Zai want to laugh again.

The more the man acted like this, the more Shi Zai wanted to tease him:

"Bro, why are you keeping us here?"

"...Just to talk."

"Oh, so you're actually pretty chatty. I only found out now—why didn’t I hear you say much earlier? Was it because Yun Bao and I talked too much and didn't let you get a word in?"

"..."

Not seeing Shu Yangkuo’s expression and hearing no response, Shi Zai and Yang Yun shared a look behind him, trying hard not to laugh.

Not finished teasing him yet, Shi Zai felt his hand being squeezed and added:

"I thought maybe you wanted to find some privacy to steal a kiss."

"..."

"But there are quite a few people on the mountain—what were those shirtless men doing earlier?"

"...Don’t look around."

"Why? They’re not as shy as you, being so shy about being seen."

As soon as he finished speaking, Shi Zai saw the tall man pulling him along look back. Though his eyes weren’t cold, they looked somewhat resentful. How was he acting all hurt again? Shi Zai tilted his head back and chuckled softly—teasing the old fossil was just too fun.

But he was genuinely curious—Chaolin Temple was pretty lively, with not just monks but also plenty of people from the foot of the mountain.

As the path widened ahead, Shi Zai pulled Yang Yun along to catch up and walk alongside Shu Yangkuo, looking up:

"What are they really here for?"

"...Seems like a boxing training session."

"Wow—is that boy one too?"

"...Which boy?"

Shi Zai was amazed—who else did this man ever notice? Back when he took him and Yang Yun to Chengzhou to meet Tan Xun and accompany him for photos, Shu Yangkuo hardly said anything beyond greetings. When they were heading back and Shi Zai asked what he thought of Tan Xun, the man actually said he couldn’t remember.

As introverted as a sensitive mimosa.

A very tall mimosa that only he was allowed to touch, hehe.

"He’s staying in the east dorm. Go ask around tonight."

"...Why?"

"He has a brother too. I want to ask him something. If you make friends with him, it’ll be easier for me to approach him."

"...No."

Hey—this was the first time the man had pushed back. Just as Shi Zai was about to call him out, he noticed Yang Yun glancing back from time to time, his gaze fixed on those shirtless boxers from earlier. Shi Zai got an idea:

"Yun Bao, do you want to learn boxing?"

"No, just looking."

"Oh, then don’t look. Yun Bao is mine."

"Hahaha, I’m yours, little bro! I just thought, if I’d been as strong as them in the past, maybe things would’ve been different…"

Before he could finish, Yang Yun stopped himself, quickly shook his head. If he’d been that strong back then, he and his uncle wouldn’t have what they have now, and he wouldn’t have met someone as wonderful as Shi Zai.

Meeting Shi Zai’s curious look, Yang Yun shook his head:

"I was too wild in the past. Uncle always protected me. I wanted to become strong so I could protect him and you one day."

"...Silly boy, I just want you happy, truly happy."

Yang Yun’s eyes immediately welled up. His uncle had said this once, and Shi Zai had said it several times—yes, he understood. He would grow up quietly. Thankfully, the night hid his emotions, and Yang Yun murmured "Mhm," not letting them notice.

Pulling Yang Yun's head closer where it rested on his shoulder, Shi Zai couldn’t help asking Shu Yangkuo:

"Bro, what are you taking us to do? How much longer?"

"We’re here."

"It’s completely dark here—what’s around?"

At Shu Yangkuo’s "Look," his phone flashlight turned on—click—suddenly illuminating the area. Shi Zai pushed away the large hand shielding the light from his eyes and slowly opened his eyes wide. At the edge of the highest cliff stood three small trees, shimmering mysteriously under the moonlight.

Both younger ones looked up simultaneously as Shu Yangkuo spoke softly:

"Two yew trees, one whitebark pine."

"Did you plant them, bro? Representing the three of us?"

Shu Yangkuo murmured "Mhm," cradling Yang Yun’s head and stroking it gently:

"In the past, the cut-down trees have been replanted. Yang Yun, let’s move forward together with Uncle."

"Mmhmm... sniffling..."

Still unable to hold back, the earlier emotions surged now that his uncle had reached out to him. Yang Yun shed a few tears but quickly wiped them away, leaning briefly against Uncle’s strong but gentle chest. He wouldn’t cry—he’d be strong from now on!

Uncle was a man of few words but treated him exceedingly well, even when he’d been immature and mischievous in the past.

Little bro lacked love but treated him like family, almost guiding him like a toddler taking his first steps. In the end, Shi Zai loved Uncle, not him, yet never overlooked him even slightly—instead, he feared Yang Yun would suffer the slightest grievance.

Especially during these past few days alone together, Shi Zai was incredibly busy but still worried he might miss Uncle or feel neglected. He even rushed, sweating, to the Pottery Studio to bring him lunch—no other apprentice had that.

Though he had no parents, Yang Yun knew even biological parents might not do more. Plus, he was spending a fortune on such expensive lessons.

If someone has ten thousand yuan and spends one hundred on you, it means little. But if someone only has one hundred yuan and without hesitation gives seventy, willing to work two jobs and exhaust themselves… anyone would be moved, feeling they could never repay it.

Little bro didn’t have to work this hard.

All for his words, "I can’t fly anymore," to give him a sky of his own.

Yang Yun had no doubt that if he’d said he wanted to learn boxing earlier, Shi Zai would’ve paid for it without a second thought.

Pink Dumpling lowered his head quiet and obedient, but Shi Zai felt another pang of heartache and pulled him close:

"Yun Bao, no overthinking. I've said it before—your companionship is worth more than gold."

"Mm, I love you, Little Brother."

"Hehe, I love you too."

"Did Second Uncle scold me?"

Shi Zai couldn't help but laugh, suspecting the little bird had scolding paranoia. He glanced up at Shu Yangkuo, who immediately wore an expression of helplessness and looked wronged. Shi Zai quickly comforted him wordlessly.

Before he could pout and blow a kiss, Yang Yun lifted his head:

"Second Uncle, just say what you want. My love isn’t the same as yours."

"..."

"Little Brother, look! He’s scolding me again!"

"Hahaha, stop bullying your Second Uncle."

The two youngsters laughed and joked nearby. Shu Yangkuo sighed softly. His little puppy must have been a kind-hearted little emperor in a past life—he was utterly helpless, could only watch them play around while he stayed in the background.

Fortunately, Shi Zai was slightly on his side. Shu Yangkuo waited until he finished laughing, then patted his back to calm him down:

"Xiao Zai."

"Hm?"

"The yew tree can live for thousands of years."

"So—"

"Fu Zai for a thousand years, relying on and staying with you."

"...It’s me who’s going to raise you!"

Shu Yangkuo took Shi Zai’s hand, about to write those words, but paused. Instead, he slowly explained the meaning of each character to him.

Still, Yang Zai—raising you—wasn’t bad wordplay.

After listening, Shi Zai felt tender under the moonlight. He blinked:

"Brother, marry me."

"...Okay."

A warm embrace enveloped him. Shi Zai looked up smiling:

"Not now," he said. "The legal marriage age is twenty-two."

"..."

"Second Uncle, Little Brother isn’t saying you’re old."

"..."

One troublemaker ducked his head, the other looked ready to scowl. Shi Zai took each of their hands and said seriously:

"Brother, after we have a real home, I’ll wait for you to marry me. Hehe, I don’t need a wedding gift—Yun Bao is the best wedding gift you could give. But don’t rush, Brother. I want to love you even more, and I want you to love me even more too. When the time comes, we’ll have the best wedding."

"...Already—"

"Not at all! Brother hasn’t even held me yet!"

As soon as the words were out, Shu Yangkuo’s ears and neck flushed red. Sometimes the little puppy seemed timid, other times he said the most shocking statements.

Yang Yun burst out laughing beside them:

"Little Brother, you’re such a little rascal!"

"Hahaha..."

Only then did Shi Zai suddenly feel embarrassed, especially with the little bird standing right there!

They joked all the way back to the lodging. Shi Zai was genuinely happy—turns out, being in love didn’t have to be all clingy and sentimental. The moonlight tonight was beautiful, and the man was absolutely amazing! Heart-to-heart connection, in this moment, felt even more thrilling than physical touch.

Shi Zai lay on the bed, watching Shu Yangkuo get blankets for them, and remembered the boy in the east lodging:

"Brother, take them a blanket. It gets cold on the mountain at night."

"…I don't want to."

"Brother—he was crying, probably homesick."

"...None of my concern."

Tsk. Though the old-school guy’s small sulks were amusing, Shi Zai couldn’t understand why he was so unwilling to meet that boy. Shi Zai really wanted to—he had his own little curiosity, like how that boy kissed and hugged his own brother, hehe.

Shu Yangkuo finally went, but returned soon after.

Shi Zai immediately grabbed him and asked:

"What did you say, Brother? What did he say?"

"...Didn’t say anything."

"No way??? Then I’ll go myself!"

"...He—they were asleep."

Shi Zai gave up but muttered to himself, that's weird.

Still, he could understand. Shu Yangkuo and Yang Yun seemed afraid of him meeting too many strangers, especially after learning about Jiang Ziqing’s past. Shu Yangkuo had been acting strange since then, and then there was the mention of "Xiao Bai" on the phone the other day—the man didn't respond at all.

Tsk, still insecure, huh.

Shi Zai leaned halfway against the window, one leg crossed over the other, a leaf stem dangling from his mouth like he owned the place:

"Brother, Yun Bao, don’t worry. You two are my only treasures. Everyone else is just passing clouds."

"..."

"..."

Hearing no response, Shi Zai turned his head, paused, then laughed. Did the old-fashioned man have to do this?! Bundling himself up like a giant silkworm cocoon! As if I would do anything at night!

Shi Zai threw himself on top, lying on top of the blanket from the outside, and tugged the man’s visible ear:

"What does Big Brother mean by that?!"

"...I'm cold."

"Then how come your ears are so hot, and your neck too, and also..."

Before he could reach further in, Shi Zai was tightly grasped by a large palm. Only then did he laugh, blinking his eyes. Huh, so what if the stubborn man cocooned himself? He still gets flustered.

Shi Zai just wanted to tease him. Since his hand couldn’t move, he nuzzled him with his head:

"Big Brother, give me one kiss, and I’ll sleep properly."

"...That's not appropriate."

"I said one kiss! Not many kisses!"

"..."

Unable to handle the person in his arms, Shu Yangkuo gently touched the lips he didn’t dare look at for too long. With red ears, he got up from the quilt, stuffed the little troublemaker entirely into his own warm quilt, turned away slightly, left a "sleep first," and went out.

Once he was gone, Shi Zai and Yang Yun giggled quietly.

Shi Zai rearranged the quilt. Since when is mid-April cold? Such a sensitive soul!

He spread half the quilt out and said to Yang Yun with a grin:

"Yun Bao, you go to sleep quickly, otherwise Big Brother will be too embarrassed to share a quilt with me later."

"Hehe, Little Brother, don’t tease Second Uncle too much one of these days."

"What can he do?"

The little bird really buried himself under the quilt and slept. Shi Zai waited for a long time, but the man didn’t return. He hadn’t even touched him earlier—the man was too oversensitive! Was it really necessary to take this long to cool down?

After calling out outside, Shi Zai went back in, drowsy, and drifted off to sleep. Not long after, he smiled and snuggled into a warm embrace.

Early the next morning, Shi Zai was alone in the quilt. He hadn’t slept so comfortably in days and stretched with contentment. Bright sunlight streamed in through the window; the temple's stray cats leaped around outside, insects chirping alongside birdsong, as if the temple’s inhabitants were also earthbound immortals.

Brring-brring—Shu Yangkuo’s phone ringtone broke the quiet morning light in the monk's quarters.

The steep cliff stood majestically, but in daylight, it looked more like a raised platform. The three trees atop it were lush and green, their leaves swaying gently in the morning breeze, their backs to Chaolin Temple, facing the red sun in the east, every leaf glowing with vibrant light—yesterday's cliff becomes today's platform; yesterday's peril was today's beauty; yesterday had finally passed, and from now on, it would surely be at ease.

Spring's beauty was right at their feet.

Shi Zai took a photo of the three trees and happily headed down the mountain with Yang Yun.

Even now, he still couldn’t calm down. What he heard on the phone excited him far more than it did Shu Yangkuo.

It was the Chengzhou Museum calling, asking Shu Yangkuo to come and provide additional information on the remaining artifacts. Shi Zai also learned that when they had previously handed over those artifacts, Shu Yangkuo had written several pages detailing extensive information about them, even including background stories, related anecdotes, and dynastic knowledge—remarkably thorough. After ten days of verification and research, the museum staff still hadn’t matched the depth and comprehensiveness of Shu Yangkuo’s provided information, so the curator personally called to ask him to come to the museum and organize the data on these artifacts.

Additionally, they planned to publish a book to make these artifacts accessible to the public. Shu Yangkuo could submit sample writing; if suitable, he would receive both a salary and royalties. Though the job wasn’t formal and might only last three months, it was an opportunity to advance.

A tree that stays put dies; a person who moves forward lives. Shi Zai was very happy, and Shu Yangkuo would gradually find his own path in the world.

As for why Shu Yangkuo wasn’t very happy, he said that since he had originally collected the artifacts, it was only natural that he knew about them, and this job could only be considered opportunistic. Shi Zai was immediately displeased—many spoiled rich kids are useless wastrels who only knew how to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves—and he wouldn’t allow Shu Yangkuo to belittle himself. Moreover, if he hadn’t taken the initiative to write those things in advance, where would this opportunity have come from? Ultimately, everyone has their own strengths, and by building on them, they can shine brilliantly.

The man listened without speaking, but the corners of his mouth lifted slightly. Shi Zai grinned and said, "Your Highness is wise," teasing him until his ears turned red again.

After descending the mountain, Yang Yun went directly to the Pottery Training Center, while Shi Zai returned home. Since he couldn’t set up his stall today, he made a large pot of sesame pancakes at home, planning to give them to the staff when he went to record in the afternoon.

Just as he finished, Jiang Ziqing called, saying he’d come for lunch, so Shi Zai made more pancakes.

At noon, Jiang Ziqing passed by the Pottery Training Center on his way from the film city and brought Yang Yun home with him. As soon as he entered, he shouted:

"Zai-ge, where’s your fake monk?"

"...What fake monk? He was never a monk!"

"Oh, I see, then you..."

Before he could finish, Jiang Ziqing was pushed onto the sofa and playfully punched twice by Shi Zai.

Shi Zai’s face was slightly red—Tan Xun must have said something to Jiang Ziqing. How could a man in his thirties be so gossipy? He’d never seen Tan Xun talk or ask much about his affairs before. Who knew what the two of them were whispering about him?

Not seeing any sign of the fake monk at Shi Zai’s place, Jiang Ziqing finally believed Tan Xun’s drunken words and yawned:

"My next role is playing a monk. I wanted to ask him for some tips."

"Then call my brother and ask him."

"...Forget it. He has that ‘keep away’ aura—I’m scared."

"Not at all, he’s very gentle."

"..."

Jiang Ziqing looked as if he’d seen a ghost. The man was nearly two meters tall and looked fierce when expressionless. Initially, he’d worried that Shi Zai keeping such a person might lead to him being bullied. And now he’s "gentle"? Tch.

Jiang Ziqing leaned in with a mischievous grin:

"How far have you two gone?"

"...What do you mean?"

"Tch, you’re so clueless, I don’t know how you’re even dating. Like, any physical contact?"

Shi Zai said "oh"—he’d seen everything there was to see, and he’d touched everywhere on the upper body... He raised an eyebrow:

"We’ve kissed!"

"Wow, not bad! You initiated it, right? How did your brother react? Tell me in detail—I’ll act it out later."

Smack—While the two were talking on the sofa, Yang Yun brought out the food from the kitchen and placed it heavily on the dining table. Shi Zai had already cooked; he was simmering the last dish when Jiang Ziqing and Yang Yun entered and had Yang Yun keep an eye on it... What was wrong?

After setting down the food, Yang Yun also laid out the chopsticks, then turned and went into the bedroom.

Leaving Jiang Ziqing and Shi Zai looking at each other in confusion, Jiang Ziqing hesitantly asked:

"Does this kid like you too?"

"...Don’t talk nonsense."

"I think so, with that little temper."

"...It’s not the kind of liking you think. Ah, I’ll go check on him."

Entering Yang Yun’s bedroom, pink dumpling was sitting on the windowsill, head drooping, hands twisted together, legs swinging restlessly. On closer look, his eyes seemed slightly red. His phone was beside his leg, the screen having just turned off.

Shi Zai's heart instantly softened. Though unsure why, he was more than willing to comfort Yang Yun, and he loved seeing him express all his emotions. He wished for Yang Yun to always be happy, but also hoped he could vent all his frustrations, so he could truly be joyful.

Before he could speak, Yang Yun leaped down from the windowsill and hurriedly said:

"Bro, my bad. Let's grab a bite to eat."

"Can you tell me what's wrong first?"

"Nothing, I just don’t really like Jiang Ziqing."

"Why? He helped me before with getting your IDs and taking you to see the doctor…"

Before Shi Zai could finish, Yang Yun cut him off:

"Right, so I said I was wrong. I shouldn’t have acted like that. I’ll go out and say sorry to him."

"...That’s not what I meant."

Shi Zai was a bit confused. He grabbed Yang Yun’s arm to stop him from leaving. It made no sense to make his younger brother apologize to Jiang Ziqing when he was clearly the one feeling upset. He couldn’t bear it and didn’t think Yang Yun had been out of line—it was just a child’s fleeting mood.

But hearing Yang Yun say this, Shi Zai slowly realized:

"It’s fine if you don’t like him. But you don’t have to force yourself to accept him just because he helped. He helped because I’ve helped him a lot before… let’s not talk about that. Yang Yun, never feel you have to please someone just because they’re kind to you, okay?"

"...I wasn’t trying to please him."

"Mhm. Also, whether it’s me or your second uncle, we’re good to you because you deserve it."

Hearing this, Yang Yun abruptly lifted his head. Lately, he’d been prone to reddening eyes, but he knew it wasn’t from sadness—it was from happiness.

It was the joy of feeling understood and loved by Shi Zai.

Yang Yun nodded and rested his head on Shi Zai’s shoulder, nuzzling gently. Shi Zai had to laugh—such a child:

"But Jiang Ziqing is my good friend. Even if you don’t like him, do me this favor and be civil, okay?"

"...Mhm. But you don’t you dare tell him about you and second uncle kissing."

"..."

Now he was laying down the law. Sometimes Shi Zai felt that although Yang Yun acted like a pink dumpling now, in some ways he was exactly like Shu Yangkuo—like his possessiveness. Shi Zai understood that even among family, there were closer and more distant bonds, let alone between the two of them and Shi Zai’s friends. Yang Yun was afraid Jiang Ziqing held more weight in his heart than the two of them did. But how could that be?

Shi Zai blushed slightly and ruffled Yang Yun’s hair:

"I’m not stupid. How could I possibly talk about those things with others?"

"You are stupid."

"Hey—getting bold, are we?"

"Hehe, I don’t have wings. Bro—use your brain a bit more."

With that, Yang Yun slipped out from under Shi Zai’s arm with a giggle and darted away.

Shi Zai didn’t catch him, just shook his head with a smile. Even being criticized by Yang Yun made him happy. All along, he’d felt Yang Yun was too reserved and too accommodating around him—quiet when he should be, playful when he needed company, but never truly himself.

These days together had slowly made Yang Yun braver in expressing himself. It was wonderful.

The way Yang Yun could show his joys and sorrows around his second uncle anytime, anywhere was finally something Shi Zai could feel too. He had to admit, it gave him a strange sense of accomplishment—like raising a child.

When they left the bedroom, Jiang Ziqing was already helping himself to food and urged them to hurry. This was what Shi Zai found comfortable about Jiang Ziqing—he was a bit sensitive himself, but Jiang Ziqing was blunt and carefree, always making the atmosphere relaxed.

Looking at the two of them, Jiang Ziqing suddenly seemed thoughtful:

"Kid, you actually like your second uncle, don’t you?"

"...!! Cough, cough…"

Yang Yun choked, his face turning red. Shi Zai quickly handed him tissues and water, glaring at Jiang Ziqing:

"Can’t you think about something proper?!"

"Hahaha, can’t help it. I spend all day analyzing characters’ emotions—can’t avoid overthinking."

"Then think less. If you have to, go find someone yourself."

"Tch, can’t find anyone decent. But you three brothers are really odd."

Before he could finish his off-handed comment, Shi Zai ignored him and patted Yang Yun’s back, urging him to eat properly.

Jiang Ziqing smiled, thinking Yang Yun was really interesting. Earlier in the car, he’d been like a prickly hedgehog, wary and defensive, afraid he’d be taken somewhere—quite adorable:

"Here, kid, big brother will serve you some food. I don’t know how I offended you earlier, but don’t take it to heart."

"..."

"Wow, you really do dislike me…"

Before he finished, Yang Yun picked up his bowl and accepted the food, but then pushed the eggplant under his noodles. He wouldn’t eat anything offered by that smooth-talker Jiang Ziqing—he was only doing it for his bro’s sake.

After the meal, Shi Zai didn’t let Jiang Ziqing drive them. Seeing how tired he looked, probably from pulling all-nighters, he let Jiang Ziqing nap on their couch. Shi Zai didn’t mind him sleeping there, but he thought to himself—when he had enough money to buy a place, he’d make sure it had plenty of rooms.

As soon as Yang Yun entered the training classroom, he seized the chance before class started to secretly call Shu Yangkuo:

"Second uncle, what should I do?"

"...Don’t make him unhappy."

"He wasn’t unhappy at all—he’s like a big fool!"

"..."

"Second uncle, say something! If bro were an emperor, he’d already have a full harem!"

On the other end, Shu Yangkuo sighed softly. He had no right to ask Shi Zai to change his way of life for him. Besides, if it weren’t for Shi Zai’s warmth, directness, and kindness, he wouldn’t have... Now, he couldn’t let his own selfish desires monopolize that warmth and kindness.

Even though he wanted him—to be his alone.

Yang Yun was still chattering away, growing more upset:

"Second uncle, did you see the message Xiao Bai sent him?"

"Don’t look through his phone."

"I didn’t! Bro asked me to read it for him—he doesn’t know many characters!"

"And then?"

"He said it was fun! That's it... he'll probably bring this home soon too."

"..."

After hanging up, Shu Yangkuo paused for a moment, then quickly finished translating the final part of the scripture.

Shi Zai hadn't expected the man to finish two days early yet again—originally it was supposed to take about fifteen days, then it became twelve, and in the end, he completed all the work in just ten days. He must have stayed up late every night.

Ever since staying overnight at Chaolin Temple, Shi Zai stopped setting up his stall in the evenings over the following days. Instead, he went up the mountain with Yang Yun to visit the man at the temple. Yang Yun missed his second uncle so much he was nearly in tears, and naturally, Shi Zai felt the same. But he was more mature than Yang Yun and had been independent since childhood, so when busy, he could push his feelings aside—otherwise, how could he focus on earning money to buy them a big house?

Fortunately, he woke up in the middle of the night; otherwise, the long nights without his embrace would have been unbearable.

On two or three nights, Shi Zai fell asleep crying while holding Shu Yangkuo's clothes, afraid it was just a dream, afraid the man would suddenly disappear, afraid they wouldn't make it to the end, afraid that after meeting so many people, they would slowly stop seeing him... These were deep-rooted fears that had built up over years and were hard to let go of.

But every sunny morning, Shi Zai felt incredibly confident. His sensitive nature allowed him to sense Shu Yangkuo's growing attachment to him. His heartfelt feelings were returned, growing even more passionate in Shu Yangkuo's responses. He would love the man even more, so Shi Zai firmly believed Shu Yangkuo would love him more too. They had met each other in this intense, destined way, meant to be together for life.

In the evening, Shi Zai and Yang Yun went to Chaolin Temple to pick him up, and brought two baskets of flatbreads. Shi Zai sweetly thanked the old abbot:

"We've imposed on you so much during this time. Thank you and the temple for your hospitality. If you ever need help in the future, just let us know. When I make big money, I'll donate more for incense, hehe."

The old abbot smiled slightly at his words—this boy was very likable:

"No need to be polite. The sutras your brother copied were very helpful to us."

"Hehe, it's a shame he can't become a real monk."

"He has Buddhist roots but not the destiny—and that's just fine."

"...Huh?"

"Buddhism is about 'salvation.' Even if he can't save others, this journey saved a few, and that is enough."

Shi Zai blinked, processing this slowly, then broke into a wide grin:

"Yes, my brother is amazing!"

"You helped too."

"Hehe, he saved me too. But—"

Under the old abbot's slightly puzzled gaze, Shi Zai mischievously shouted, "We never kissed in the temple!" then took his brother and younger brother's hands and ran off laughing, while the old abbot chuckled and scolded, "You little troublemaker."

He had to make it clear to the old abbot that Shu Yangkuo's big change wasn't only due to his affection!

Shi Zai knew that Shu Yangkuo had always had love and goodness in his heart, never gone—it had just been awakened by him. From bits of their conversations, Yang Yun and Shu Yangkuo had lived in a chilly, controlling world of deceit, which later led to their cutting ties with their past. But their essence was kindness and love, which was why they hadn't been changed by that life, allowing Shi Zai to meet them as their true selves.

On the way down the mountain, Shi Zai looked at Shu Yangkuo, with a slight eyebrow raise:

"Brother, wasn't being a monk really fun this time?!"

"...Not a monk."

"Why not? After tonight, you won't be. Don't forget, there was another reason I sent you up the mountain!"

"..."

"Will you let me see it?!"

"..."

Shu Yangkuo tilted his head slightly, his flushed ears burning even hotter in the intense evening glow, unable to handle the puppy's teasing.

Seeing this, Yang Yun started laughing again on the side, so Shi Zai stopped teasing:

"Brother, I'm really happy. I've changed a part of your past, and I'm so glad!"

"Thank you, Xiao Zai."

"Don't say that word! Never. Brother just needs to love me more, that's all."

"Okay."

"Brother, slowly tell me about your past, and Yun Bao's too. I want your pasts to be marked by my presence, so it doesn't matter if it matches the history of the Great Tang Dynasty—the past is the history of the three of us!"

Getting more and more excited, Shi Zai lifted Shu Yangkuo's hand and kissed it, then bent down and touched Yang Yun's little shoulder. He was incredibly lucky and happy to have such a wonderful brother and little brother so easily, and in the process, he healed his own wounds.

Of course, what made him happiest and most excited was still the night—

After eating out, Shi Zai hurriedly brought them home, helped Yang Yun fall asleep, then went to take a shower.

Up to this point, the atmosphere was still warm and tender. But soon, quiet sobbing came from the main bedroom. Shi Zai was crying and wiping his tears while angrily shoved Shu Yangkuo away, wrapping himself tightly in the blanket:

"Why are you being so mean? Go away!"

"...Brother was wrong, don't cry."

"I'll cry if I want to... I put this on happily for you, how could you treat me like this?!"

Shi Zai was truly furious. The cranky man was old-fashioned, but why did he have to control him too?

After his shower, Shi Zai had gone into the bedroom first and secretly put on the light yellow little dress he'd bought not long ago, wearing nothing underneath and only a loose little tank top on top—just as he'd promised the man: "I'll wear it secretly for you."

The moment Shu Yangkuo lifted the blanket, it was clear he was immediately aroused, his breathing heavy. Shi Zai didn't even need to look—he knew well enough by now that the man was turned on. Just as he was about to blush and ask for a kiss, he heard a cold "Take it off." Shi Zai was stunned, blinking as he called out, "Brother?" The stubborn man repeated, inexplicably, "Take it off."

Shi Zai kicked his legs, took off the little skirt, curled under the blanket, and started crying.

It wasn't until tonight that Shu Yangkuo understood the discomfort he'd felt back then—seeing Shi Zai like this for him, he couldn't help but feel happy and excited, but at the same time, he immediately remembered the day Shi Zai took those photos, the many pairs of staring eyes, and the man named Tan Xun.

He knelt on the bed, bending over to hold the bundled-up figure in his arms, nuzzling him gently:

"Xiao Zai, brother won't do it again, don't be angry."

"Then why did you?! Brother, is it because you don't like others seeing me in a dress? I get it, and I promised I wouldn't take photos anymore—only for you. Why did you still act like this?!"

"...Brother was really wrong. From now on, wear whatever you want, whenever you want."

Shi Zai was so angry he felt dizzy. This man was acting all pitiful and stubborn, making it seem like he was the one being bullied. He took a deep breath:

"If brother doesn't like others seeing, then you can replace the memory of seeing me in a dress."

"..."

"From now on, whenever you think of it, it'll only be tonight, okay?"

"...Okay."

"Big dummy!"

Shu Yangkuo nodded. He admitted his mistake and accepted the criticism. He was obsessive, often trapped in desperate dead ends with no way out. Holding the person in his arms tightly, he pressed a loving kiss, grateful for this boy who filled his heart and eyes.

Pulling back the blanket and gazing at the small skirt beside the legs of the person in his arms, Shu Yangkuo couldn't help but feel a surge of desire deep inside. Almost trembling, he carefully helped Shi Zai back into the skirt, not daring to look too closely. Yet, in his peripheral vision, the pale feet, slender calves, and smooth, dazzling skin resembled a green lotus swaying on water, unsettling his mind completely.

Accidentally brushing against him, Shi Zai, who was lying on his back staring intently, let out a soft gasp. Shu Yangkuo immediately released his hand.

Shi Zai quickly grabbed his hand, his face flushed with heat, yet still enduring the shyness, he placed the man's large palm on his own waist. Blinking, he murmured:

"...You like it?"

"Then you should touch me. You never dare to ever. Tonight, I’ll let you touch me properly. Look at me."

"..."

Under the faint moonlight, Shu Yangkuo’s Adam's apple bobbed heavily. Slowly, he shifted his gaze back, and with just one glance, his face flushed crimson as he took in the full view. The person in his arms was a young man wearing a loose tank top on top, but from the waist down... he was like a sly little fox.

Under his palm, the skin was burningly hot, smooth, yet resilient. Shu Yangkuo couldn’t resist rubbing it firmly—just as he had imagined.

Shi Zai raised both hands, hooked them around the man’s neck, closed his eyes, and kissed him. He didn’t know what would happen next, but he was certain it would be something he eagerly anticipated, exciting, and pleasurable.

Yet, after an even more intense deep kiss than last time, Shi Zai was let go. Aside from the handprint on his waist, there was nothing else.

After a moment's confusion, Shi Zai silently shifted aside, wiping the corner of his eye:

"Ge, only I am willing to touch you. You don’t really like me that much."

"...Don’t talk nonsense. It’s just... you’re too inexperienced."

"I’m not young now! Ge, just touch me and you’ll know!"

"..."

Seeing the boy about to shed tears again, Shu Yangkuo pulled him into his arms sideways, his restraint hanging by a thread, yet he held back, taking care of him first.

The skirt was short.

A moment later, Shu Yangkuo’s voice was low and hoarse:

"Don’t make those noises."

Hearing this, Shi Zai mumbled, "But it feels good."

Shu Yangkuo slightly raised himself, kissing the tempting mouth before pressing a kiss to the tip of the ear he had long adored—completely adorable. Just like a puppy, its ears twitching slightly.

He was his. The person in his arms was his.

Getting more impatient, Shi Zai opened his damp eyes, unable to hold back a sob:

"Ge—"

"...Baby."

"Mmhmm..."

In less than ten minutes, Shi Zai narrowed his eyes sharply... So that's what it's like. So good.

His thoughts still hazy, they finally settled on one name that instantly thrilled him. Shi Zai abruptly turned over:

"Ge, what did you just call me?!"

"..."

"Ge—please, call me that again."

After cleaning his hands, Shu Yangkuo tightened his embrace, his intense gaze almost searing a hole through his chest.

Unable to avoid it, Shu Yangkuo met those shining eyes and called out with deep tenderness:

"Baby."

"...Ge, you’re my baby too! My big baby! I love you so much!"

Saying this, Shi Zai climbed over him, noticing the man’s Adam's apple bob as if trying to retreat. Shi Zai pressed down entirely:

"Ge, are you still being stingy now?"

"...I was never stingy."

"Then I want to taste your..."

The handsome face before him flushed crimson instantly. Shi Zai chuckled and immediately lowered his head, starting from the large Adam's apple all the way to... places the stingy man hadn’t let him kiss before. Now, he covered them with kisses.

Just as Shi Zai thought he was about to be lifted high, a wild strawberry was suddenly taken fiercely. He gasped in surprise, then raised himself and held the man’s head, giving himself over to it.

But it felt good.

Seemed like he was being careful, hehe.

Through the long night, Shi Zai’s hand was moved by a large hand until he finally couldn’t help but speak up:

"Ge, aren't you done yet? My hand is sore."

"...Then let’s stop."

"No! I’m afraid you won’t sleep all night. Who told you to be so annoying? Helping you is such hard work, hmph..."

The person in his arms muttered with a red face, utterly adorable. Shu Yangkuo kissed the tip of his ear and hoarsely said, "Call me Ge." But the little puppy mischievously called out "old-fashioned" several times instead. Shu Yangkuo closed his eyes, left frustrated.

Shi Zai felt like his hand was about to get calluses when suddenly an idea struck him. He dragged out a name he had never used before... Soon, his palm felt a violent pulsing.

*** **Ge**: Chinese term for older brother, often used affectionately.