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Mo GuanShan couldn’t say he’d visited prison regularly before. Contrary to what most people thought, he, in fact, just knew the protocol for visitations, but barely knew how the institution worked. Which in some way was an irony, considering it had been twenty years since the day his family –his happy and perfect family –had a fancy dinner and then, all his world collapsed around him because before he could understand it, his father was in prison for a crime Mo GuanShan wouldn’t dare to believe he’d committed. It was ironic considering how one of his best friends was the son of a big head of shady business and how his partner had sent to jail so many people because of ‘work’ that he didn’t even dare to ask. Yet, standing in front of the huge gates of the State Prison, he felt totally out of place.
Today, after more than twenty years, his father was being released.
Although his father’s sentence had been thirty years of captivity, he was being released under conditional freedom today, because of good conduct, or so they said. Mo GuanShan didn’t know what to think of it. He was convinced he wouldn’t see his father in freedom for at least another five or ten years, and by that time, he would be almost forty years old. A whole life without him. Still, twenty years wasn’t a short time. Those years made him a totally different person… In fact, they made him an actual person, and he couldn’t say what kind of person his father was, because after so long, he barely knew the man.
Soon, a police officer was opening the gates, and he was stepping into the building. All the paperwork and procedure for his father's release happened in a blur after that. It was earlier than he thought when a door on his left opened and a man stood in front of him. He looked older than he probably was. Wrinkles around his eyes and the tiredness of a lot of sleepless nights. But Mo GuanShan could recognize the man anywhere; it was his father after all.
Mo GuanShan stared in contemplation for a few seconds more. Their eyes held the same color and shape, and he noticed his father was barely an inch shorter than him, something that surprised Mo GuanShan since he didn’t remember the the last time, they stood next to each other.
The last time he had seen his father was one year prior, through a thick glass and seated in front of each other in uncomfortable plastic chairs. He had never been adamant about visiting his father in prison when he was younger. Prison wasn’t a place for a child or a teenager to begin with. It wasn’t until he was fifteen that he visited his father for the first time, and soon, they fell into a routine of once or twice a year visits. All those visits had been short, because un-ironically, neither of them were good with words.
He was taken out of his stupor by another police officer who threw a bag at him, taking him by surprise and making him almost let the bag slip. He was about to snap at the police officer, but his father’s words stopped him.
“I’m glad you are here”, simple words that made him look at his father again. It was certain that Mo GuanShan wasn’t sure what to tell his father anymore. And even more now that there wasn’t a glass parting them away. There wasn’t any barrier between them, and something snapped inside of him at the thought. There wasn’t any barrier… and though this person in front of him was practically a stranger, it was also his dad. The man who once spoiled him rotten and protected him. The man who, every year without a fault he would visit and remember his childhood and better times.
“I’m glad you are out of this hell of a place,” Mo GuanShan said, and before anyone could say anything else, a pair of arms were holding him. They weren’t as strong as he thought they would be; they were thinner than they looked, but still the hug sent shivers through his body.
His father was hugging him after twenty years.
“I’m so sorry,” his father said again, in a tone that held sorrow and regret. A tone Mo GuanShan had never heard before. Mo GuangShan didn’t know what to do for a second, but soon enough, he hugged his father back and nodded in acknowledgement.
The police officers exchanged some words with his dad, some congratulations that Mo GuanShan didn’t think were the sincerest words, but let it slip. In a few more minutes, they were out of the fancy gates of the facility, beginning the walk to the parking lot in silence. And for each second that passed, Mo GuanShan reaffirmed how little they knew each other.
When they reached his car, Mo GuanShan noticed the hesitation in his father’s demeanor and wondered if it had been a good idea to bring his car. It wasn’t as fancy as his partner’s, just because it was a car he bought by himself. With his sweat and hard work. It was his first car and a machine He Tian hated to the core because it wasn’t enough for him, but, he still let him keep it. But thinking in retrospect, it was still a very nice car. Totally black that shone in the streets. Not the newest model, but functional, evidently not his partner’s standards.
And now that he thought about it, he wondered if perhaps He Tian’s tastes were sticking to him, because now his dad was staring at the car with an expression of awe. Perhaps wondering if it was really his car, wondering if there wasn’t any mistake. Because another thing was true. His father’s imprisonment left him and his mom on the streets and with a huge debt that took more than half of his life to pay. Many beatings under unknown people and a very modest life. So, he understood that, with a debt as huge as it was the one on his shoulders, nice things were almost out of reach as a university and a respectable career once were.
He wondered then if his father wasn’t aware that it had been a couple of years since they finished paying the debt off, so it shouldn’t be truly impressive that he could get a nice car, after everything.
Did he know they didn’t have a debt? Did he know his mother lived a comfortable life now that her body was a little tired? Did he know he had a comfortable life? Mo GuanShan wasn’t sure.
Mo GuanShan didn’t speak while unlocking the car and depositing the little bag in the back seat, opening one of the front doors for his father, that had been staring at him from a few steps behind. His father didn’t say anything, taking a seat in the car and waiting for him to do the same.
Soon the road greeted them, and Mo GuanShan wasn’t sure what to say to fill the now uncomfortable silence. Asking how he had been, was a stupid question. Asking what he had been up to, wasn’t the most sensible approach. And a few minutes into questioning himself what to say to fill the uncomfortable silence made him realize… he was trying. He was trying to not sound rude; he was actually trying to make his dad comfortable. Mo GuanShan looked at the older man from the corner of his eyes, who now had his stare fixed in the landscape of the city. More than twenty years without freedom Mo GuanShan understood the fascination his father must feel just by looking through the glass.
“If you want to stop anytime just tell me”. Mo GuanShan offered, and when his dad looked at him, it was the first time Mo GuanShan could see a tiny smile.
“Thank you” was all his father said, but the man didn’t stop staring at him. Mo GuanShan kept his eyes on the road, and it was when he stopped at a red light, that he felt a squeeze on his shoulder.
“You grew up well” And all Mo Guanshan could do was to nod in acknowledgment, staring at the road again and, finally, after a short silence he said.
“Ma is waiting for us” and although he couldn’t see the reaction of his dad, he could sense the surprise.
“Really?”
“Of course.” Mo GuanShan frowned, “Where did you think I was taking you to?” he asked curiously.
“I… really don’t know. I wouldn’t have blamed you if you two had moved from me a long time ago.” His father said in a pensive tone. It was so sincere that it made Mo GuanShan’s blood boil.
“Shut up. Don’t think so little of Ma, she was waiting for you all these years, for whoever you are. She wanted to come, but she chose to wait at home instead.” She was freaking out, he didn’t say. She wanted to cook for you, he didn’t say either.
Some minutes passed, and when they were about to pass a viewer of the city, his father asked to stop. His father walked slowly to the railing, and took a big breath, letting the breeze caress his face.
“I missed you two… every day of my life. I… I’m so sorry for everything that happened. I don’t deserve you; I really don’t know what is next now,” his father confessed with honesty.
Mo GuanShan leaned next to him on the railing, staring ahead to the big buildings a few kilometers away. “You are right, you don’t deserve Ma, and not after all she had to go through because of you, but…” and stared at his dad, “it is not about if you deserve her or me. It's about what you have and how you treasure it. So, if you ever do something to hurt Ma again, I will make sure you regret it.” Years and years of beating himself down, the many times he had to restart again, made him appreciate certain things. And his mom was above them all. Now his dad had to prove his place in his life. And although he knew his mother wouldn’t love a worthless person, his father had a lot to make up for.
His father smiled and said, “I wouldn’t dream of it”, and just then, Mo GuanShan could spot the same smirk that he would sometimes stare in the mirror, the same that his mom would tell was the same as his father’s. He nodded and let his dad contemplate the view for a few more minutes. When Mo GuanShan asked his father if he wanted to visit some place, maybe buy some food, or whatever he wanted to do, was met with a simple answer.
“I just want to go home…I have time for everything else.” Mo GuanShan, for the first time in the day, let a genuine smile to plaster his face.
+o+o+o+o+o+
The apartment Mo GuanShan’s mother lived in was totally different from the one they once lived in until he finished high school. The former apartment was small and with barely enough space for two, a narrow hallway, narrower rooms and not security at all.
This apartment, on the contrary, was in a residential neighborhood. The building was clean, the neighbors were kind (according to his mom), and more than that, it was more than twice the size. It had two rooms, two bathrooms, a decent-sized living room and a nice kitchen. All the dependencies also came with it, and Mo GuanShan was so proud that his actual job let him buy the place (perhaps the very safe background in his bank account helped a bit). He was still paying for it, though, against the wishes of the big and heavy black card his partner owned.
His father arched an eyebrow when they reached the very decent neighborhood and gaped when they parked at the building. A very cozy and familiar building, also new and pretty. His mother told him they used to own a house when he was little, with a small but beautiful garden that she had to sell to pay part of the debt, but that this apartment felt the same as the house did back then, familiar, and safe. Mo GuanShan hated to admit it, but He Tian had a good taste for properties too, considering he’d found the apartment and was so sure his mom would love it.
The gatekeeper greeted him with a little nod of acknowledgment, and stared at his father with wariness, but soon enough proceeded to take the information of his dad. Yes… it was that kind of building, and he wouldn’t have anything less for his mom. Not if he could afford it at least. A few minutes in the entrance and a little surprised guard after reading the information, they finally took the elevator to the apartment.
7th floor, apartment A, read the wall once they left the elevator, and before Mo GuanShan could find the magnetic card to open the door, it opened by itself.
His mother had that shine in her eyes that he had just seen on two occasions in his life. Unfortunately, one of those had been when he showed her, they didn’t have a debt anymore. So, he just assumed she was happy. So, so happy, that before he could react, she was throwing herself into his father. Hugging him so strongly that he was impressed.
“Finally!” She cried, and Mo GuanShan knew when he had to scram, so he just got into the apartment and let his parents meet again after so long. He left the belongings of his father over the table and went to check the food. He was a chef after all. And even though a few of the things he knew in the kitchen were his mother's teachings, he was a chef in all the senses of the word and nowadays he was working in a very respectable restaurant.
He wasn’t sure how much time they stood in the entrance, murmuring some words to each other, but by the time they closed the door of the apartment, Mo GuanShan was about to finish heating the food and setting the table.
He saw his mother happily holding his father’s hand, leading him to the living room. Rimmed eyes and content smiles, and he couldn’t stop a tiny smile from appearing on his face. In a few minutes, the food was served, and after twenty years, the three of them were sitting at the table, sharing a meal.
Mo GuanShan wasn’t small anymore, he didn’t have that easy smile his mother told him he used to have, he didn’t demand his father to let him taste his food, the mood wasn’t as light as used to be, but he couldn’t stop but to feel content. And when his father began to cry, no one said a thing, because they understood. Finally, they were together after so long.
+o+o+o+o+o+
It was shocking how easily they fell into a routine.
In the few days after his father’s release from jail, Mo GuanShan had been visiting them daily. Just before heading to work, and making sure his mother was okay and they had everything they needed. Making a small chat and asking about mundane things. Nothing too personal yet, mostly how his work was and what they did that day.
Contrary to what Mo GuanShan thought, his father barely got out of the apartment. His mother told him that after so much convincing she was just able to take him around the neighborhood and to the nearest grocery store, but not to the busier streets or to the commercial district. Apparently, his father wasn’t comfortable walking on the streets yet.
Mo GuanShan kind of understood it.
The persecution complex he experienced in the past still haunted him nowadays. So, he knew that after so many years in a cell, having all that freedom must be overwhelming and even more under the circumstances his father was. Nonetheless, that didn’t stop him from arranging a shopping day for his father. He needed clothes, and although they were almost the same height, his father was so thin that he just wanted to keep shoving food into his mouth so he could gain some weight faster. He needed some decent shoes, and even if his mother made sure his dad had all the necessities for a daily routine, he still needed a decent razor and a phone.
So, when by Saturday Mo GuanShan showed up to his mother’s apartment ready to take them shopping, he was sure he would be met with reluctance and maybe second thoughts. But instead, he was met with his mother practically dragging his dad to the car with a big smile.
Okay, that was new.
He just greeted them, and soon he was driving to the commercial district. For a second, he thought about going to the biggest mall over there, but it was a weekend, and the place would be packed, so instead he chose to go to a smaller and fancier mall, where people won’t be killing each other for the sales. He hated the place, and maybe it was the reason why it was one of He Tian’s favorite places to go shopping. Though after so long of living with that asshole, he would admit, half of his wardrobe was from those very same expensive stores.
“Are you sure you want to shop here? I don’t mind stuff from the neighborhood mall,” Mo GuanShan’s father said, feeling totally out of place.
The mall looked fancy and so expensive.
“Don’t worry, dear,” His mother said with a smile before he could say a word. “This is a treat from someone,” she chuckled, making Mo GuanShan stare at his mother in disbelief.
“You…” he began, remembering very well how in the morning, He Tian was so adamant for him to take one of his cards. So, so adamant that it was suspicious. Of course, he had to be in touch with his mother. The asshole. “You know. I don’t wanna know what you two talk about,” he said to his mother, and then looked at his father. “Don’t worry. There aren't a lot of people here, so I thought it was a good place to shop. Also, don’t worry about money; occasionally, we can afford it.” And without a second thought, he stepped into the building.
First were the shoes. Then he knew where to find comfortable clothes and some sweaters. Perhaps some jackets, the heck he knew how his father liked to dress. He used to be a businessman, but he was sure that right now he wouldn’t appreciate a suit. Though He Tian wanted to give his dad one for a certain reason, Mo GuanShan couldn’t process it yet, so he made the mental note to go by the tailor as the last stop.
The morning passed in a blur once they arrived. His mom was a little too enthusiastic about all the ordeal, and his dad, well, he just looked interested in some items and some shops, but he wasn’t really excited to be there. The only item that he seemed excited to acquire was his new phone. Finally, he could feel someone understanding him about shopping. He hated it. And his dad seemed to.
“Welcome Mr. Mo, we are glad to have you here again,” an employee said as soon as they stepped into that shop. It was their last stop. That meant the tailor, the fucking fancy tailor He Tian used to frequent now that he was the CEO of his brother’s company, and the kind of shop one stared on TV in awe. Fancy walls, fancy couches, fancy people, he hated the place.
He stared at the petite girl and just nodded before she could continue, “Are you here for some new arrangement on your last purchase? We still have one final fitting in a few days for your suit Sir.” She informed kindly and then stared behind him and asked, “Or perhaps a new Suit? Mr. He called this morning and made us aware you could drop by today, so we were waiting for you.” She smiled, and Mo GuanShan thought he might have a headache.
Mo GuanShan sighed.
“Not me, he.” Mo GuanShan looked at his father, who stared back with a shocked face, almost like a deer caught in headlights “If you could make it in less than two weeks, that would be great,” Mo GuanShan said to the girl.
“Of course, Mr. Mo. We can make the arrangements. You can go sit while you wait, please. We will bring you something to drink. And Sir.” She looked at the older man, “If you may follow me, we need to take measurements,” was the last thing Mo GuanShan heard before his mother was taking his hand to lead him to the comfy couch a few steps from them.
“You didn’t tell him.” His mom said as soon as they were seated, “You didn’t even invite him,” she said with amusement in her voice which Mo GuanShan didn’t like a little bit.
“I… I don’t know how to tell him, I mean, I don’t think he would be happy.”
“Oh my baby… you don’t know your father as much as I do. But let me tell you he loves you. So, so much. I’m pretty sure he would be happy to go to his only son’s wedding,” she teased.
“I’m already married, this is stupid.” Mo GuanShan frowned.
“Eloping doesn’t count. Unless I see it, it didn’t occur. I can’t believe you two. Didn’t you think about your poor and lonely mother when traveling half the world to get married, and not bringing a picture!”
“That’s why we are doing this fucking whatever it is. I don’t know how you convinced him, and then Yi knew about it and suddenly you want a fucking wedding. I hate all of you.” Mo GuanShan said with a frown.
“Some of your baby photos were on the deal,” Mo GuanShan’s mother said with a smug face “and it wasn’t difficult. He really loves to show you off like you deserve, you are really handsome, you know?” She smiled.
“I don’t know how those two things are related, and you two always team up against me, you can’t be trusted,” Mo GuanShan said, almost teasing.
“My baby deserves a wedding. Not just a certificate from who knows where and being blackout drunk while signing the certificate,” she insisted.
“I wasn’t!” Mo GuanShan defended himself. Which was somehow true. He was definitely blackout drunk after that. “He wouldn’t let me do it unless I was sure about it” he added after in a tin voice.
His mother just chuckled and held his hand.
“You know, at the beginning, I wasn’t sure about you two, but he really loves you. I know his family is difficult, but let me tell you, he is so ready to throw all that out the window if it means being with you. And you need to tell your father. He… Well, we didn’t have him for so long… it doesn’t matter who you marry, he will be happy to be there. He couldn’t be with you in the past. I think he at least deserves a chance to be there. And if he doesn’t like it, that would break my heart, but you don’t deserve a person like that in your life.”
Mo GuanShan shrugged but didn’t say anything for a few minutes. Finally, he sighed and spoke.
“Alright. I was planning on taking you two to have dinner, but I can cook something for you instead. I’ll tell him then. Happy?”
“Awesome. Also, don’t forget to tell him all about your elopement. I bet he would be amused.” she smiled.
“I’ll think about it.” He said with a sigh and proceeded to change the subject to something his mother was probably very interested in, which was the fucking flower he would wear in his suit.
*o*o*o*o*o*o*
When Mo GuanShan boarded a plane to the United States, he was pretty sure he wasn’t going to be married exactly 3 days after that. He didn’t even have fiancéecé by that time. He just had something like a boyfriend because they never actually talked about it. Not after He Tian reappeared in his life one day and refused to let him go.
Also, the fact that He Tian and he had been living together for a few years at that point was something Mo GuanShan thought of as a very logical decision and not some hormone-induced decision. He Tian always had a very spacious home, contrary to Mo GuanShan’s room with barely enough space for a bed. So, when Mo GuanShan began to spend more nights at He Tian’s home than at his little room, he didn’t thought twice about having a room on that big and fancy apartment (and if at least half of his stuff was there already by the time he moved, he never acknowledged it), so again, they never talked about their relationship per se.
So, when they arrived in Las Vegas at dawn he just wanted to have fun. Dumb and Dumber and Xixi were with him since this little adventure had been his birthday gift. Jiang Yi and He Tian teamed up for that of fucking course. That day they played around the casino and had a very wild party at one of the pools that left them almost intoxicated. He Tian disappeared by the second day, he said he had some business. No one thought about it twice. He used to do that sometimes. Zhan Xi and Jiang Yi were in high spirits around noon and after they took some medicine for the hangover. The rest of the day they just explored around and asked for the weirdest food they could find. He wasn’t against it. Some of them turned out to be actually very good. Later that night, when Mo GuanShan arrived at the room he shared with He Tian, he was just waiting for him with a glass of wine and a cigarette in his hand.
They drank a bit, they talked like they used to, they kissed, and they made love.
It was very, very good.
So, it wasn’t rare that when the third day arrived, Mo GuanShan woke up with a foreign feeling of happiness. Perhaps it was because they were on the other side of the world, or maybe the very good wine they had at night, maybe it was the strong arms that were around him, holding him dearly from behind or maybe it was all of it. So deep in thought that he almost missed an important detail. He had a ring on his finger, on his ring finger. It was white gold. Not too fancy, just… pretty. And his brain couldn’t process it for at least a few minutes. It was his size and looked nice on his hand. And he couldn’t stop his heart when He Tian hugged him and whispered to his ear that they should marry. That he loved him. That he would take care of him for the rest of his life if he’d let him. That he couldn’t live without him.
Mo GuanShan thought it was a joke at first. But years of knowing He Tian made him discern when the taller man was being an asshole and when he was a vulnerable child. And this was the second. They never talked about this stuff. They barely acknowledged there were deep feelings involved in their relationship. But Mo GuanShan knew He Tian meant it, and he also learned that this was making him so, so happy that he wanted to punch something.
Maybe it was the adrenaline or maybe he was high on something, but he just kissed He Tian. For the next hour or two they fucked again until Jiang Yi began pounding on their door. And then everything happened so fast. They were having lunch; they were having fun and suddenly He Tian was dragging all of them to get certain certificates and then to one of those horrible Chapels that were everywhere.
He definitely smoked something because he actually agreed to do it without a second thought, in that shitty church with Jiang Yi and Zhan Xi so done with their bullshit but agreeing to be their witnesses, nonetheless. And before the sunset, he had a husband.
Apparently.
And also, information about a party so definitely they were going.
To say he was really drunk by the time midnight arrived was an understatement. Admitting he didn’t leave his hotel room for the next two days was expected. He had the best sex of his life on those days, and he almost missed Las Vegas when they had to part after their week on the other side of the world.
So, when they arrived at home, he was almost surprised that nothing really changed. They still lived together, they barked at each other, they fought, they kissed tenderly, and they made love. And so, he totally forgot to say anything. So, when one day it slipped to his mother that he got married in Las Vegas, she cried a little. That was how she got He Tian’s number and a dinner in a fancy restaurant where He Tian kneeled in front of her asking for forgiveness in the most embarrassing way possible.
They talked, and He Tian, being He Tian, charmed her for the tenth time, and everything was forgiven in less than a day.
Or he thought so.
Because a year after that, they were going to celebrate an actual wedding. With guests and a fancy decoration, fancy clothes, and the best food He Tian could find. He would need to say his vows and after their wedding night, a month in Europe was waiting for them.
So well, he was angry at the beginning, saying it was a waste of money and time. But he relented once he realized this was probably one of his mother’s dreams. So yeah, a fucking wedding will be.
The preparations hadn’t been going on for long since He Tian was highly efficient and had the money for it.
Yet, his father’s release was a surprise. But the preparation for his wedding never stopped.
So yeah, it was true that he needed to tell him at some point.
At some point, that was probably today.
Mo GuangShan sighed and parked the car in front of a huge fancy building. His parents in the back and he unsure how to proceed. He sighed and after a second or two he said.
“I’ll cook something for you” and continued to get out of the car. They were in front of his building. A fucking giant building in the center of the city, because apparently, the He family had many immovables around the city, and this was one of them. Of course, He Tian had to own one of those fancy apartments and of course the building had valet parking so as soon as he stepped out of the car a man was asking for his keys, waiting cordially for his parents to leave the car.
He didn’t comment on it, not daring to look at his father, just walking to the building.
His parents followed him without a word.
His mom had a smile on her face, and his father looked resigned to whatever was going on. Not even daring to ask.
The elevator ride seemed to never end and finally, once they arrived at his door, he put the code and said “Dad, this is my apartment, both of you are always welcome” and before the man could comment on it, two heads were enthusiastically waving their tails at the door.
Mo GuanShan smiled and knelt before his two dogs to pet them.
Bao and Huan.
They were two golden retrievers that, contrary to popular belief, he got for He Tian a few years ago. They were three this year and he loved them to the moon and back.
The dogs recognized the woman and leaped a little at her, stopping just when they noticed the unknown man.
“Bao, Huan, this is my dad, be nice.” Mo GuanShan said before stepping into his apartment.
As expected, the place was spacious, a little minimalist, since He Tian didn’t give a shit about furniture, leaving in Mo GuanShan’s hands everything related to their house. Too bad, Mo GuanShan didn't give a shit about furniture either, so they just began adding a few things here and there in recent years because of their dogs. Also, it was easier to clean a place with not too much stuff in it.
Mo GuanShan left his keys and shoes at the entrance, and giving his parents spare shoes, he directed them to the living room.
“Feel at home, I'll begin the dinner,” Mo GuanShan said, moving to the kitchen. His lovely kitchen that sometimes was the only reason he dealt with He Tian’s antics.
He could see his parents from there, they were entertaining his dogs. His mother more enthusiastically than his dad, but still, his dad seemed content.
Mo GuanShan smiled and focused on the meal.
It was a few hours later, with the night embracing the city and they were seated at the table after the meal that Mo GuanShan heard his mom say.
“Well, I’m so happy that I get to have you both again. I’m so happy we can share these moments together” she said with a smile.
Mo GuanShan sighed and staring at his dad he just said.
“Dad, I think you might have many questions right now, about the apartment and other stuff,” Mo GuanShan said. “First of all, I assure you, I was just lucky in life, and I’m not involved in anything weird. I just found a good partner. This fancy place is his by the way. And if you can accept this, you are welcome to come whenever you want” and without another word, Mo GuanShan slipped an invitation over the table.
It was silver with black tones. Very shiny and screamed ‘Expensive’.
“I’ll be getting married in about a week, with that person. We can’t really get married here, but we will have a symbolic ceremony nonetheless and you are welcome to come if you want.” Mo GuanShan finished and proceeded to stare at his legs. Just like when he was younger, he would do some mischief and he would stare at his legs while being reprimanded.
The room was silent for a few seconds and then, Mo GuanShan just heard the deep voice of his dad.
“You don’t have to do this” And in all the things Mo GuanShan was waiting to hear, this was sure none of those.
“Ah?” and stared at his mom, who was as puzzled as him.
“I understand now.” His father began “But you don’t have to do it. You don't have to marry for money or something like that. We can find a way to make money”. He said with so much understanding and confidence that Mo GuanShan thought this was a sick joke.
“I… What?” Mo GuanShan could muster up before his mom began laughing out loud.
It took a little while for her to stop laughing. Even the dogs went to her to inspect what was happening. Waving their tails, almost as happy as she was at the moment.
“Oh dear…” she began “Trust a little bit more in us alright? And A-Shan why don’t you tell your dad a little more about your partner. Because apparently, he thinks you are marrying for money. For his money. Which I deeply take offense in since we raised this man better than that.”
“Not a mountain of gold would be enough to deal with his bullshit. Are you fucking serious?” Mo GuanShan said offended. And if he were younger, he would just insult his dad, but he had learned to deal with people.
Sometimes anyway.
So, he just sighed and before his dad could say something, he began “We met when we were kids, fifteen maybe, for some fucking reason he enrolled a public school, and obviously he became the talk of the year. I hated him. Like… a lot. He was tall, handsome, rich, and also kind of a genius, but definitely an asshole. A lot of stuff happened. The asshole, for some reason I don’t understand why yet, got interested in me, and bugged me until I was roped into a group of friends that I hope you will never meet but that will be kind of impossible because just because of them, I’m getting married like this. A lot of shit happened between us.” Mo Guanshan blushed “Long story short, I met him when I was fifteen, one day he disappeared, I thought I’ll never see him again. Next thing I know, he was knocking at my door for some fucking reason. It was complicated, really. Then we dated for five years or so, kinda. Last year he invited me to a trip to America, because yes, he is that kind of rich, and well. We kind of got married there. Then mom was crying because she couldn’t attend the non-existent wedding and now, here we are. His family is so fucking weird by the way.” Mo GuanShan sighed.
“In other words, he is an asshole that I’ve known for half of my life. He grew on me like fungi, and yes, he bugged me enough that I agreed to marry him. Not for money, I think he would be over the fucking moon if one day I actually ask for his money. He is that weird. Even the apartment you are living in right now, I’m paying for that with my work. He helps when I need it, and of course he throws money for useless stuff that he likes, but otherwise he respects my work. So yeah, I’m getting married to him. You don’t have to like it, or accept it, it’s how it is” and once again Mo GuanShan stared nervously at his hands and then at his mom. His mom had that happy smile plastered on her face, so content that he knew she was proud of him. And then he stared at his dad, who had a pensive expression on his face.
Mo GuanShan stared at him for a few seconds before his dad’s voice resonated in the room.
“And are you happy with that?” was the simple question Mo GuanShan wasn’t expecting.
A simple question that sometimes crossed his mind.
Was he happy?
And the answer came easy to him, maybe, too easy, and natural, that before he could think about it twice, he heard himself saying “I am”, two words that didn’t hold any complication in them. They were true, and Mo GuanShan knew that he couldn’t be happier even if he tried. Even if thinking about it made him want to hide three floors underground. Even if sometimes he thought his life was hell. He certainly was happy and now, more than ever.
He didn’t know what face he made, but suddenly two delicate arms were around him, the floral fragrance of his mom’s perfume so near him, and he just relaxed and let himself be surrounded by his mom.
“I’m so happy for you A-Shan”. She said, tightening the hug. “There was a time when I didn’t believe I could give you the life you deserved… but look at you now. I’m so proud of you”. And before he could respond to his mom, another set of arms surrounded both.
“That is all I’ve ever prayed for.” his dad’s words pierced him. “That you and your mom could be happy even when I couldn’t be there for you” and Mo GuanShan finally relaxed, releasing the breath he didn’t know he was holding and letting his parents hug him. He wasn’t small anymore, topping over both of them easily, but still, he felt so small in his parents' embrace that he just let them hug him to his heart’s content.
A couple of minutes later, with the three of them seated on the big couch and him indulging his dogs with little treats, his dad asked.
“I would like to meet him,” and this time, Mo GuanShan stared like he was caught in the highlights. “According to the invitation, the wedding is in six days, I would like to meet him before that”. Mo GuanShan’s father said, holding the invitation and reading the contents with intense focus. Mo GuanShan’s mother giggled and rested her head on his dad’s shoulder reading the invitation as well.
“He is nice” she said, “very handsome, he could be a model” and giggled again at the frown on Mo GuanShan’s face.
“Alright” Mo GuanShan sighed “I’ll tell him. He probably was expecting something like this and already has a fancy reservation at a very expensive restaurant that probably you would love, so whatever”. Mo GuanShan frowned.
His mom laughed, and his dad nodded in approval.
And so, the rest of the evening passed with content and easy smiles.
O*o*o*o*o*o
It was an understatement that when Mo GuanShan mentioned to He Tian that his father wanted to meet him before the wedding, He Tian smiled and with a shitty grin replied “I have everything already planned”, totally happy by the request. And Mo GuanShan wondered why he didn’t seem to be nervous at all, contrary to all the times Mo GuanShan was roped into something related to He Tian’s family and was shitting on his pants at the mere thought of facing any member of the He family. This was such a bullshit.
So, it wasn’t a surprise how few ours later He Tian had a very expensive, very difficult and very exclusive reservation at a fancy restaurant for the next day. How the hell?!
Mo GuanShan many times wondered if it was really the power of money or if He Tian could read the future. Because now he was in the entrance of his parents’ building, on a Monday, in a fancy car because He Tian wouldn’t let him take his own car because of the place they were going, and he had an image to uphold or some bullshit like that. He was also dressed up in a fancy suit that he knew he had to wear because the restaurant had a dress etiquette. We wondered what was He Tian trying to prove.
He sighed while waiting for his parents, and a few minutes later he was surprised to see his mother in a pretty (expensive) dress, with nice shoes and a nice hairstyle. She looked beautiful. And his father in a blue suit that seemed tailored for him and made him remember old times. He wondered where those clothes came from, but at the same time he really didn’t want to know.
He left the car to meet his parents and before they could say anything, obviously ogling the car, he said.
“This is He Tian’s car, he insisted we rode in it because is a very elegant place.” His mother giggled; his dad nodded. To him it was still a surprise how well they took He Tian bullshit. In a few minutes they were in the road, with a light chat and his mother excited about the experience.
It took a while for them to reach the restaurant. It was in the center of the city; the traffic was terrible, and the hour didn't help a bit. Finally, once they parked, another of the surreal experiences of Mo GuanShan’s life began.
He was so nervous. Because the knew a lot of stuff could go wrong and he was somewhat preoccupied with the fact that if his father and his partner didn’t get along, he didn’t know what he would do.
The building looked expensive and enormous. The people were a little too polite. Soon they where in a private elevator and once they reached the top, people were waiting for them. The restaurant was gorgeous, and he wasn’t a little bit surprised when they took them, not to the main hall, but to one of the private areas. A table was already waiting for them, as well as a man dressed all in black, perfect air, perfect posture and an imposing aura around him.
He Tian was so extra.
Mo GuanShan took some steps ahead and before he could say anything, He Tian was standing up and reaching them. Then with all the politeness that Mo GuanShan knew was on his partner’s bones, He Tian bent and saluted his father.
“I’m He Tian, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Mo” and the next second he was straightening up, stretching out a hand to give a firm handshake to his father. Who just held his hand in a strong grip and then, both stared at each other without wavering.
His mother was amused to say the least.
And Mo GuanShan just sighed, not wanting to get in the middle of whatever that was and proceeded to hold the chair for his mother. A few seconds later his dad just said “Good” and continued to take a seat.
The next hours were something surreal for Mo GuanShan.
His family, his whole family talking, sharing stories from when he was a teenager to what he was today. He Tian as always being kind to his mother and being confident talking to his father. His father stare, that didn’t stop seizing He Tian all night long, the good food and the nervousness of the first meeting.
But after a few hours, when Mo GuanShan was giving the farewell to his parents, leaving them at the front door of his building, with He Tian waiting by the car after a short goodbye, his father said.
“I’m glad you are happy, GuanShan, “and squeezed his shoulder “He is a good partner” was the last thing his father said before retreating to their home. And if Mo GuanShan could, he would have wiped out the smug smirk that appeared on He Tian’s face at the words.
“Shut up” he said before He Tian could muster up a word.
“But baby, I’m the best partner” and a smirk adorned He Tian’s face.
“You aren’t” Mo GuanShan said taking the passenger seat in the car.
“But your dad says otherwise” which made Mo GuanShan to roll his eyes.
“Yeah, he can’t be trusted, he doesn’t know you like I do” but a little smile appeared on his face while He Tian began the car.
“yeah? Don’t lie to yourself Little Mo” He tian said beginning to drive.
“Well, you’ll need to prove it then” and crossed his arm over his chest.
“Of course, I’ll have a whole life Litte Mo, and I’m dying to prove it to you”
O*o*o*o*O
The ceremony was short and beautiful. Jiang Yi crying all the time. Zhan Xi smiling and nodding approvingly. His mother, as Yi, was crying but with a beautiful smile on her face. And to his surprise and amazement, his father loving gaze all over him.
He Tian was handsome in his white suit (although he was always handsome, whatever he did and whatever he put on), but the lovely expression on his face every time they shared stares was something Mo GuanShan couldn’t stop to stare and smile at.
“You are so handsome” He Tian said, holding his hand, ready to dance. As He Tian, Mo GuanShan was in a white suit as well. He liked the color since the old days, and he was surprised when He Tian didn’t went for a dark suit but chose to match him instead. Mo GuanShan held the hand in front of him and that was the moment when a beautiful smile appeared on his face.
Mo GuanShan couldn’t to stop but to think in all the journey from when he was a teen with attitude problems, who wore anger as an armor, to the long and painful road of falling in love with someone as uncertain as his life was once. He couldn’t stop to remember the fear of losing the people he loved, losing some, and finding them again along the way. And now he was there, reaching his happiness with the person who believed in him since the beginning. And he really couldn’t stop to but smile, wide and happy. He Tian widened his eyes at the sigh, and the next second a handsome smile adorned his face and chose to etch to his memory every millimeter of the sight.
Contrary to what people thought, everything happened on He Tian’s brother’s back garden. A huge garden with beautiful flowers and trees, a very elegant decoration, and a short list of guests.
The dance stopped and as soon as Mo GuanShan looked around, he couldn’t stop but to think how lucky he was. His mom and dad were looking at him with tenderness in their eyes, his best friends with conspiratorial expressions next to them. Even He Cheng wore a smirk that he supposed was as good as a smile. Some other few people they met in the way were congratulating them, and even his dogs were wagging their tails in content, looking funny with their little tuxedos. But the most important thing at the end was He Tian, that even if most of the time he wore that terrible smug expression on his face, all Mo GuanShan could see now, was a happy smile and tender eyes. All he could stare at was the adoration on his husband’s face and Mo GuanShan really couldn’t do anything but match him.
After all, all Mo GuanShan could do was to be happy surrounded by the people he loved the most.
Fin