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Chapter Text

The net hit the water with a loud splash. Wu Suo Wei watched as the rope netting expanded as it sank down into the water. He let it sink for a few moments before gently pulling on it. He let it drop all the way to the bottom, hitting the sand as it trapped fish inside of it. He pulled the rope, closing the bottom as he reeled in the net.

“Yes! Nice cast SuoWei.” He gave himself a small shout of joy as he saw how many fish were in his net. They thrashed against the fiber of the rope, giving a futile attempt at escaping. He let out a huff of air as he pulled the net onto his fishing boat. SuoWei released the weights at the end of the net, causing the fish to flop around aimlessly on the deck of his small boat. He cursed himself silently as he fumbled around trying to grab them. He counted them as he put them in the large tank under his deck. Twenty-seven carp, and all decent sized as well. They would get him a good price at market when he went back for the day. Wu Suo Wei felt himself jump as the loud boom of thunder could be heard through the air.

“Rain?” He turned around to see the massive, dark storm clouds quickly rolling in. The clear blue sky from minutes ago being swallowed as thick grey clouds loomed overhead. “Shit.” He cursed to himself as he made a dash back to his small stern room. He had turned his boat off earlier as he fished. He flipped a switch and turned a key. His boat shook for a moment as his anchor began to slowly ascend from where it had been on the ocean’s floor. Another loud boom sounded through the sky as the clouds seemed to move faster. Worry flashed in Wu Suo Wei’s eyes as his engine stalled. The annoyingly familiar sound of his engine struggling to start up as he turned the key. He could hear the sound of heavy rain coming down against the surface of the water. His boat began to rock, almost sickeningly so if he wasn’t so used to it at this point.

Another loud rumble shook SuoWei to his core, before the loud crack of thunder sounded. He stuck his head out of the window of the stern room’s frame. The sky was now completely dark, barely any light coming through as the heavy rain washed over his ship. The heavy drops coming down on the metal roof of the small stern room. A flash of lightning lit up the dimming sky, accompanied by another loud crack of thunder. He pulled himself back into the small stern room. His hand twisted at the key again.

“Come on! Start up!” He shouted in annoyance. His pleas were met with a breathy laugh as the engine finally kicked on. The sound of rain coming down on his ship was almost deafening as he tried to sail the rocking waves. He swayed with the ship as it rocked with the restless sea. SuoWei could barely see the water in front of his boat, but he knew he’d be in more danger if he stayed out here. He tried to go slow, knowing if he went too fast it might risk capsizing his entire boat. The only thing telling him he was going in the right direction was the lighthouse. He had only just noticed the spinning light in the distance. They must have turned it on as soon as the clouds began to roll in.

SuoWei knew he wasn’t far out from the harbour, but the lack of clear vision wasn’t helping. The more he drove the brighter the harbor lights became. He was close to the docks. He would have felt relief if it wasn’t for his boat rocking harder than it should have. He stumbled, catching himself on the metal frame of the stern room. The waves were rough, but this felt different, he could tell.

“What the hell was that?” SuoWei stood there for a moment, trying to find his footing on the wet floor boards of the deck. A loud thud was heard, and a deep groan following behind it. The confusion on SuoWei’s face was clear as day. He held onto the metal framing as he walked out to the ship's front deck. To say he was speechless at the sight would be an understatement. There, on the deck of his ship was what could only be described as a merman. A man with an almost jet black fish tail. Translucent fins fanned out from his hips and tail. Speaking of his tail, it was long and scaly, but gorgeous in a way he couldn’t put words to. The fin at the end fanned out beautifully, a tail that was no doubt excellent for swimming. As SuoWei scanned over the man’s body, he noticed the large gash on his left side. The dark, crimson red colour gushed out of the wound like it was allergic to being inside of its owner.

On instinct, SuoWei was rushing to crouch down next to the merman. His hands hovered over the exposed skin of the other man’s chest, not sure exactly what to do. The rain relentlessly pouring down on him did nothing to ease his beating heart. SuoWei remembered what his best friend had told him about wounds this big. The words echoed in his head.

“Apply pressure. Try to stop the bleeding with any kind of tourniquet or cloth to cover the wound.” He nodded to himself as he stared at the pained expression on the other man’s face. The closest thing he could think of to use was his shirt’s sleeve. His reluctance to tear his shirt showed easily as he hovered over the shoulder seam. He gripped it, but mulled over other possible options. He really didn’t want to ruin a shirt. But at the same time, he didn’t want to risk someone bleeding out on his ship.

He gave an annoyed sigh, clenched his eyes shut, and ripped the fabric. The voice in his head cursing him at the decision. He bundled the fabric up, pressing it to the wound. The shout the merman let out was something unlike SuoWei had ever heard before. It was loud and shrieking, making him wince at the sound. A hand, with claw like nails and webbing between the fingers grabbed his wrist tightly. His grip loosened slightly at the strong grip, it was painful, but he didn’t know what else to do.

“I’m sorry. I’ve never done this before.” SuoWei talked mostly to himself, unsure if the merman even understood him. The large tail attached at the other man’s body thrashed at the pressure, hitting the wood roughly. The pained expression on his face made SuoWei’s stomach turn. He looked down at the wound again, only now noticing the pulsing slits on the man’s chest and side. They opened and closed in a laboured way, like it was struggling. SuoWei had seen the same kind of motion in the fish he would catch.

Those must be his gills. I’ll try to avoid them if I can. He thought, taking caution in not moving his hands far from the wound. It was dangerously close to his gills. Could he breathe right now? What would happen if he stayed out of water for too long? Would normal methods of treatment work on him? SuoWei’s head raced with hundreds of questions, not knowing where to start. The boat hit a particularly large wave, snapping him out of his thoughts. He needed to get help.

He reached for the phone in his pant’s leg pocket. Pulling it out and praying to the gods he had at least one bar of signal. There was a sigh of relief as he saw two signal bars at the top of the screen. He hunched over himself, shielding his screen from the pouring rain as he dialed his best friend’s number. It rang once, twice, and then silence before he heard a voice.

”Da Wei? Where are you? I didn’t see your boat at the docks when I checked. Are you still out there? What are you-“ SuoWei cut off his friend’s onslaught of questions.

”Xiao Shuai now is not the time for questions.” He said bluntly, not wanting to waste time.

”Of course it is! It’s absolutely storming out and you’re nowhere to be seen. What if you get hurt? Your boat tips? What if-“ He’s cut off again.

”I need your help. I can’t explain right now, but please. Will you meet me at the docks?” He needed to make this quick. SuoWei glanced down at the merman again. The clawed hand still gripped the hand holding the cloth up to his wound. The hold on his wrist was lighter, but still tightened when the ship rolled, causing SuoWei to press into it.

”Help with what? Wu Suo Wei what happened-“ Xiao Shuai was starting to sound annoyed at the lack of answers he was getting.

”Please Xiao Shuai. Will you help me or not? I’ll explain everything later.” There was a hint of desperation in his voice. He waited a moment, then a heavy sigh came from the other line.

”Okay, fine. I’ll wait for you by the docks. But you better explain yourself when you get here or I’m gonna kill you myself.” SuoWei smiled to himself.

”Yes, I promise. I’ll explain everything. Thank you. I’ll try to get there soon.” He was about to pull his phone away from his face, but he heard his friend’s voice again.

”Don’t capsize! You better make it back here in one piece.” SuoWei chuckled.

”I will, don’t worry. See you soon.” He hung up, slipping his phone back into his pocket. His attention returned to the injured merman. He wasn’t sure what to do. The boat was still moving forward slowly, at a snail's pace. He grabbed at the man’s wrist, straining to pull it off of his other arm.

“I have to get us back to the docks. You have to let go.” He wasn’t sure if the other understood him. His grip tightened, then relaxed fully, releasing SuoWei’s hand. SuoWei kept his grip on the merman’s wrist, guiding his hand to hold onto the cloth instead.

”Hold this in place for as long as you can.” He looked at the other man’s face properly for the first time. He was watching SuoWei with a scrunched up face, a pained expression as he followed his every move. SuoWei swallowed, a wave of nerves passing over him. The icy gaze made him shiver. He stood up hesitantly, hovering his hands over the wound as he got up slowly. He made sure the man was holding it in place before he made his way to the stern again.

His hand grabbed the speed control switch. He pushed it forward steadily, feeling the boat stutter for a second before it began to propel faster forward. He watched from where he stood, eyes drifting constantly to the figure on the deck of his small ship. He worried about what would happen first. Either he would tip over, or the merman would bleed out. He tried not to think about it, instead focusing on the lights he could see becoming more clear. During heavy storms, besides the main lighthouse, the harbour automatically had lights that turned on, guiding any stray boats to safety.

A strangled groan snapped him away from the lights, to the figure on the deck. The large tail smacked against the wood again. Both hands of the merman now clutching his side, pushing the cloth into his wound. SuoWei swallowed, praying he could get back faster. The waves evened out for a split second, and SuoWei took advantage. He sped up, the lights from the harbour now almost blindingly bright as he came closer. He could make out the blurry figure standing close to the docks. The heavy rain made it hard to see.

He pulled back on his speed, slowing down drastically as he came into the harbour. He clumsily pulled into his usual spot. The figure now becoming clear, it was Xiao Shuai. He let out a strangled laugh at seeing his friend. He came to a stop, turning his engine off and hurrying out of the stern. He made his way to the starboard side of the deck. He pushed open the railing gate, hopping off to tie his boat to the large metal cleat on the dock.

”Why the hell were you out in the storm like that?! You know how dangerous it can be! And what happened to your shirt? Where’s your other sleeve?” He could hear his friend scolding him. He worked quickly, having done the motions thousands of times.

The rope was already tied securely to the cleats of his boat. He took the end of the large rope, and began on the dock cleats.

”Are you gonna help me or just stand there and scold me?” He shouted, trying to speak clearly through the rain. Xiao Shuai gave an annoyed look before he grabbed the other rope. SuoWei’s hands moved quickly, muscle memory taking over. He pulled the rope taught under the left hook, wrapping around the right. He crossed it over and looped around the left hook again. He made a large loop with the rope and put it over the right hook again. He used his body weight to pull back on the rope, pulling it as tight as possible. Xiao Shuai followed, tying the rope as best he could.

”Okay, now help me with one more thing.” He looked over to his friend and motioned him to follow him onto the boat.

“Are you crazy? We need to get inside!” Xiao Shuai protested, but still followed his friend. He stood in place behind SuoWei as he saw the figure. Wu Suo Wei continued, crouching down next to the merman on the deck. He looked back at his friend again, ushering him closer.

“Well? Are you gonna help me or not?” He shouted to his friend. His hands gently grabbed the merman’s arms and he shouted at the man. “My friend can help. We have to move you.” He looked back at his friend still standing there, agape.

”What the hell? Are you crazy?! What do you expect me to-“ SuoWei shouted over the rain.

“Are you gonna help or not? He has a giant gash on his side and I don’t know how much longer he can hold out.” That seemed to snap Xiao Shuai out of his stupor. He walked over, observing the man’s body. His eyes fixed on the bloody cloth, clumsily covering a large gash on the man’s abdomen.

”What happened?” Xiao Shuai wanted to ask so many things.

”I don’t know! I was coming back and I felt my boat rock really badly. When I went to see what it was, I found him here, with a giant gash.” SuoWei shouted up at his friend. He watched his friend’s expression change rabidly. His brain must be working overtime trying to come to a decision. He watched as his friend sighed, joining him in a crouch.

”Remember to lift with your legs. I don’t need two people to care for right now.” Wu Suo Wei smiled as his friend spoke. His compliance for the time being a saving grace. SuoWei turned to the merman again, addressing him.

“We’re gonna lift you. Try not to move too much.” Xiao Shuai looked between them, and waited for his friend.

”Ready on three! One, two, three!” They began to stand, pulling the merman up with them. Wu Suo Wei hooked his hands under the man’s arms supporting his upper body. He heard another pained sound from the merman, feeling somewhat bad. Xiao Shuai grabbed the tail, trying his best to grip the scaly body. They struggled, walking carefully off the boat so as to not slip on the wet dock. The merman struggled to keep the cloth in place, scowling as he was moved around.

“We’re almost there. Shuai’s clinic isn’t far from the docks.” Wu Suo Wei leaned over the merman, addressing him. He glared at SuoWei, annoyance clear in his features.

“Can he even understand you?” Xiao Shuai yelled over the rain. In response, the merman flicked his tail fin. He winced as his stomach flexed, causing his wound to ache more.

“Hey don’t move! You’re gonna make it worse.” SuoWei shouted at the man. He received another glare in response. “Glare all you want, you need stitches regardless.” They continued walking to the clinic Xiao Shuai owned right off the boat docks. A lot of sailors and fishermen got injured while at sea, making it a good area for business. Even if it was a mostly donation led clinic.

They finally reached the door, and SuoWei set the man down for a moment, receiving a pained grunt in response. He opened the door, pushing the stopper down to the ground. SuoWei bent down again, picking up the man and continuing into the clinic.

“Bring him back to the exam room, I can do the stitches there. Go close the door after we set him down.” Xiao Shuai spoke to his friend, walking to said exam room. Water dripped from them, covering the floor in their wake. They walked back, setting the man down on the bed. SuoWei left, going to close the door as he said. He made sure to lock the door before returning to his friend. He walked to the left side of the man, looking down at the wound.

“Is it still bleeding really bad?” SuoWei heard his friend ask. He was running a towel hastily through his hair, and wiping off his glasses. Then the sound of running water could be heard as he spoke. He watched as Xiao Shuai washed his hands thoroughly, practically scrubbing his hands raw.

“I’ll look.” He looked back to the wound. The merman still held the cloth in place, arm shaking to keep it up. “I’m gonna check your wound. I’ll take the cloth now, okay?” The gills on the merman’s sides opened wide, and he could see his chest rise and then fall. SuoWei reached cautiously, moving the man’s hand away. He took the cloth and removed it from the wound. It was still bleeding, but not nearly as much as it was in the beginning.

“It doesn’t look that bad, but it’s still bleeding a little.” He turned to his friend again. He watched as he dried his hands and put on gloves.

“Okay, good. Dry off a little then wash your hands and help me with this.” Xiao Shuai ordered. SuoWei quickly set the bloodied cloth down, walking over to the sink, grabbing a towel to dry his face and hair. After, he picked up the soap to wash his hands. He copied his friend, making sure to get under his short nails, and up his arms.

“Okay, now what?” He turned as he dried his hands, taking a pair of gloves as well.

“We need to clean the wound first. Grab a few of the blue disposable towels after you put your gloves on.” SuoWei nodded, doing as told. He grabbed a handful of towels, bringing them over to Xiao Shuai at the table. His friend grabbed a bottle with a curved spout. He took a towel and squeezed the bottle until liquid came out of the spout.

“What’s that?” SuoWei asked, staring as his friend put the bottle down after properly soaking the towel.

“Just some normal saline solution. It’ll give the wound an initial cleaning before the sutures. After that I can use a better chemical for a better disinfectant.” Xiao Shuai looked at the merman, rounding the table to stand on the injured side. SuoWei stood on the opposite side of the table.

“Is it going to hurt?” SuoWei asked, carefully looking at the merman. He had watched them as they talked. Observing their every move from the second they entered the harbor.

“It might sting a little. But it needs to be done so it doesn’t get infected.” Xiao Shuai stated firmly. SuoWei gave a small nod. He looked to the merman again, noticing how he stared back. His gaze sharp and cold, glaring daggers into his front. But something else was underneath the death glare. Something along the lines of curiosity perhaps. He was sitting up on his elbow, his right arm crossed his body and his hand clutched the wound.

“You have to move your hand away.” SuoWei spoke to the man, pointing at his hand. He received a sharp toothed growl. SuoWei flinched a little at the sight of his sharp teeth. Teeth that were no doubtedly used to tear the flesh off of its prey.

“You can either move your hand, or bleed out on the table.” Xiao Shuai interrupted. His tone was harsh and impatient.

“We just want to help. He has to clean it.” SuoWei agreed. He glared between the two humans. He reluctantly removed his hand, setting it down on the table next to him. He laid down, wincing at the pain in his side.

“I’ll start now then.” Xiao Shuai’s tone dripped with annoyance. He put his left hand on the merman’s stomach, and felt the muscles tense. He watched as the gills flared up, whether in anger or simply breathing he didn’t know. And frankly didn’t care. SuoWei watched as his friend pressed the wet towel to skin, hearing the man hiss in pain. He bared his sharp teeth again for a moment before his lips covered them again. His face scrunched up in pain for a few moments at the initial burn.

Xiao Shuai gently patted the wound. He wiped the outer edges, to the man’s chagrin. His gills flared again, matched with another painful expression.

“Alright, done. That will be good enough to suture the wound for now.” SuoWei watched as his friend reached for a small plastic package. He snapped the back and grabbed a set of forceps. He took them into his hand and grabbed the needle with the jaws of the instrument.

“Have you done this before?” SuoWei asked, watching closely as his friend got ready to start.

“A few times. But I also went to medical school if you somehow forgot. I’ve done this hundreds of times on fake skin.” His tone was annoyed, but more mild than before.

“Right, sorry. Continue.” SuoWei laughed lightly, nervous. He looked to the merman again, trying to gauge his reaction.

“Here we go. This might hurt.” He glanced over at the man as well, then pressed the needle in. His stomach tensed, and his face scrunched up in pain again. The needle dug deep, barely an inch under the skin, and came back out on the inside of the wound. He pulled the suture, pushing the needle through the other side and back out the top of the skin. Xiao Shuai pulled the suture all the way through, leaving extra to tie it off. He took the suture and wrapped it around the forceps twice, grabbing the end of the suture and pulling tight.

“Is there anything I can do to help?” SuoWei asked, watching Xiao Shuai’s hands work effortlessly. He made another knot, then another. Next thing he knew, his friend snipped off the extra length and moved onto the next stitch.

“Wipe up any blood that leaks out please. I need to make sure I can see clearly.” He didn’t look up as he spoke, concentrating on his hands.

“Got it. I can do that.” SuoWei grabbed a clean towel, picking up the same bottle his friend had before. He squeezed the bottle, and squirted the saline onto the towel. He set the bottle down again, turning back to his friend. Xiao Shuai would point out when the wound needed to be dabbed at. He followed quickly, making sure to thoroughly clean when he was told. The soft sound of metal tapping metal could be heard, when there weren't painful grunts from the merman.

“Almost done, just a few more.” The gills flared once again, then settled back against the man’s skin. “Da Wei, here.” SuoWei’s attention snapped back to the wound, dabbing where he was told.

The last few stitches went fast. Xiao Shuai sighed, taking in a breath as he stepped back from the table. He triumphantly set the needle and forceps down on the small cart table, taking his gloves off and discarding them.

“Finally done. That took longer than I thought. The gash was bigger than I initially expected.” He looked at the merman on the table, and walked to his head. “All done, I’ll finish disinfecting and you can be on your way.”

“What? We can’t just let him leave. What if something tears and he hurts himself again?” Wu Suo Wei was quick to interject.

“Why do you care so much? We don’t even know if he’s friendly or not.” Xiao Shuai motioned to the man as he slowly sat up on his elbows again.

“Don’t say it like he’s some kind of animal. He’s still,” He looks at the merman, “Half human.” Xiao Shuai rolled his eyes.

“I don’t know what you want me to do. He can’t stay here Da Wei, I have patients coming in and out of here everyday. I have no where to keep him.” He turned and started tidying up. Throwing away towels and used, bloody instruments.

“I-” SuoWei paused, thinking it over. “I could keep him for now.”

“That won’t be needed, human.” They both whipped around as the merman spoke.

“You can speak?” SuoWei said loudly.

“Of course I can, what do you take me for?” He tried to sit up more but winced at the pain in his stomach.

“You could speak this whole time and you didn’t say anything?” Xiao Shuai raised his voice, shoulders shrugging exaggeratedly.

“I didn’t see the need to. You said you’d help, you did, and now I don’t need you anymore.” He said matter of factly.

“Ohh, okay. I see how it is. You were just using me? That was the plan when you hopped onto my boat?” SuoWei pointed at himself and then gestured to the direction of the docks, and his boat. The merman nodded, grimace still plastering his face.

“I didn’t target you specifically. You were just there and I grabbed on and pulled myself up. You were the one to come help me.” He retorted.

“At least explain what happened now. Since we know you can talk.” Xiao Shuai demanded, walking over to stand beside SuoWei.

“I’m not sure why you think you deserve any kind of exp-” he sat up too quickly. His arm shot to cover the stitches.

“Hey! Be careful. He just finished stitching that.” SuoWei defended for his friend, not wanting his hard work to go to waste.

“Oh please, I don’t need a human like you to tell me what to do.” His tail flicked in annoyance. His gills flared again, and he went silent for a moment, just clutching his side.

“You should just kick him out at this point if he’s so insistent on leaving.” SuoWei mumbled.

“Wu Suo Wei!” Xiao Shuai whispered loudly.

“What? He comes in here, you stitch his wound, and now he wants to bad mouth me. I’m not gonna stand here and take it.” The merman gave an annoyed face.

“It wouldn’t hurt you to be a little nicer. He did help you big time.” Xiao Shuai spoke up for his friend. He was met with an eyeroll from the merman.

“I wouldn’t be in this situation if it weren’t for humans.” He fumbled backwards, landing on his elbow. His side was throbbing in pain and his vision was spotty at the edges.

“You would also be dead if it wasn’t for Da Wei.” Xiao Shuai pointed out. “You’re lucky he was still out in the water when whatever happened, happened.” The man looked up through his pained expression at them. He looked at SuoWei and shook his head.

“So how did you get in this situation anyways?” SuoWei asked, arms crossed over his body as he sat in a roller chair.

“How about you start by telling us your name maybe?” Xiao Shuai added. The merman gave a huff, reluctant to say anything he didn’t need to to these humans. There was a long silence, then he spoke.

“Chi Cheng. My name is Chi Cheng.” He grumbled.

“Okay Chi Cheng, tell me, how did you get this giant gash on your side?” Xiao Shuai asked cautiously. Another annoyed huff.

“Fishermen.” That was the only word he replied with.

“Fishermen? They did that?” Xiao Shuai asked, confusion clear in his voice. Chi Cheng nodded.

“That’s what I said isn’t it?” SuoWei rolled closer, groaning in annoyance.

“Yeah but how? What did they do that made you have that huge wound?” SuoWei asked, pointing at the sutured skin.

“I noticed it was going to start storming, so I came to the surface to hunt. It’s easier when it rains. They must have seen me at the surface. I dove under the water, but then I felt a pain in my side, and next thing I knew I was swimming away from them with blood gushing out of my side. I found your small boat, climbed up and now here I am.” His voice was monotone. A hint of more annoyance under the surface.

“I guess that makes sense. They probably thought you were a huge fish.” SuoWei rolled his eyes as he leaned back in his chair. He was shot with another glare.

“It’s still raining pretty heavily out. It might not be a good idea for you to go back yet. I can’t keep you here though. Now, sit back, I’ll put some bandages over the stitches.” Xiao Shuai said, grabbing some gauze patches and medical tape.

“I never asked for a place to stay. I don’t live on land.” Chi Cheng responded.

“If I wasn’t a better man I’d kick you out myself right here and now then.” SuoWei feigned toughness, pointing rudely at the man. Chi Cheng huffed out a laugh.

“Then kick me out.” He taunted, enjoying the annoyance flare up in the other man.

“You-” SuoWei began to say. Already pointing an accusatory finger at the merman.

“Alright, alright! That’s enough. Lay back so I can put on the bandage.” Xiao Shuai walked over to Chi Cheng again. He reluctantly laid back. “This will burn, be prepared.”

“I want to do it then.” SuoWei stormed over. “I’ll do it. Hand me the iodine.”

“You just want to do it cause I said it was gonna hurt.” Xiao Shuai called him out. SuoWei gave an amused huff.

“No, I just want to help you some more is all.” He didn’t hide his lie well. His friend smiled as he rolled his eyes.

“I’ve got it Da Wei.” He uncapped the iodine, sticking a Q-tip into the small bottle. He pulled it out again and gently dabbed it around the edge of the wound. A hiss of pain came from Chi Cheng as his muscles tensed. His tail lifted again, smacking against the edge of the table.

“Serves you right.” SuoWei mumbled under his breath. He watched as Xiao Shuai worked, making quick work of disinfecting and bandaging the wound.

“There. Now we’re fully done. Try not to mess it up.” He gave a gentle tap, scurrying away as the man winced at the pain. “Da Wei, you take it from here.” He was quick to leave the room, leaving them alone.

“So,” Chi Cheng started, a teasing tone, “You’ll take care of me you said?” Wu Suo Wei whipped around, pointing a finger.

“That’s not what I said and you know it.”

Chapter Text

“Are you going to help me or not?” SuoWei strained out, trying to drag Chi Cheng.

”I think you’ve got it.” He mused, hanging somewhat limp in the other’s hold.

”You dead weight asshole.” SuoWei pulled him along. His tail dragged against the wet stones outside. It was still dark out, only a few street lights giving any visibility of the path ahead.

”You’re the one who insisted on keeping me with you.” He huffed. The wet bricks made it easier to drag his scaly tail along. It continued to rain, but not as heavily as a few hours ago. The dark clouds still hung overhead, threatening to begin pouring anytime.

”I did not insist. I would just feel guilty if you died.” He strained again, pulling Chi Cheng along.

”Aw, you’d feel guilty? How sweet of you.” He teased. His tail flicked.

”Oh shut it. We’re almost to my place.” SuoWei turned his head as they moved, facing the direction of his place.

”Already inviting me over, how bold.” SuoWei rolled his eyes.

”I told you to shut it.” Chi Cheng breathed out a laugh. SuoWei finally reached his doorstep. He set Chi Cheng down, pulling out his keys. He looked through the assortment of keys, finding the one he needed. The key turned in the lock easily, and he swung the door open. He picked Chi Cheng back up, dragging him through the small courtyard to his home. The merman looked around, admiring the nice area. A large tree hung overhead, bearing small, bright orange fruits. Many were strewn on the floor, most likely knocked off during the storm.

”What are those?” he picked up a fruit as SuoWei dragged him along. The younger man looked down, seeing Chi Cheng hold the small orange fruit.

“It’s a fruit. Called a loquat. Tree’s been here since I was a kid.” He spoke quickly, continuing to struggle as he dragged Chi Cheng.

”Is it good?” Chi Cheng brought it up to his nose, not smelling anything too bold, except a slight acidic smell.

“I like them. So I guess so. They’re a little sour for some people though.” He continued to drag the merman along, setting him close to the large pond in the back corner of the courtyard.

Chi Cheng looked into the water. The water had a light mossy green colour to it. Two figures swam around under the large lily pad leaves that sat on top of the water’s surface. He reached his clawed hand in, reaching for them.

“AH AH don’t touch them!” SuoWei shouted as he noticed the other man’s movements. Chi Cheng’s hand halted, already half way into the water.

“Why not? Think I have a disease or something?” He splashed his hand a little. The webbing between his fingers stretched out as he opened his hand more.

“Those are my personal koi. They’re the offspring of my highest sellers a few years ago.” SuoWei bent down to look into the water. He laid his hand on the water’s surface. The koi swam to it, gently mouthing at his palm.

One was almost all white, with small black scales scattering the top of its head. The other, a golden yellow, with circles of white patterns down its stomach.

“Highest sellers?” He set himself up straight, looking between the human in front of him and the fish in the water.

“Yes. I breed koi. I do other things besides fishing. Koi breeding is rather profitable if you know what you’re doing.” SuoWei took his hand from the water, and the fish quickly swam off. He sat on the small wooden bench Chi Cheng leaned against.

“People breed fish for money? That seems rather stupid. They already fish, why take more steps?” Chi Cheng questioned. He dipped his tail in the water. The water was deeper than he thought. He couldn’t see the bottom earlier, but it seems to be farther down.

“It’s for aesthetics. People like how they look so they’re willing to pay a lot of money for certain patterns.” He looked as Chi Cheng put his tail in the water. He tapped his foot against the man’s non-injured side. Chi Cheng grabbed his ankle, glaring up at him. SuoWei struggled to yank his leg free.

“Let go would you!” He shouted silently.

“Don’t kick me then.” Chi Cheng tightened his grip, before suddenly letting go.

“A tap. That was barely a tap. Crazy merman.” SuoWei turned his body away from the man, rubbing his ankle.

Crickets hummed in the night air, loud and buzzing. The two sat in silence. Chi Cheng gently splashed his tail in the water. He could feel the koi gently swimming around him. They swam under his fins, brushing against the thin rays[1] of his tail. The rain fell gently, making rings on the surface of the water. It was a nice moment, only to be interrupted.

“Are you going to invite me in?” Chi Cheng spoke.

“You’re here aren’t you?” SuoWei shot back, looking down at him.

“You’re going to leave me on the ground out here?” Chi Cheng glared at him. SuoWei let out an annoyed sigh.

“You think I’m going to bring you inside?” He shoved a finger into his own chest, pointing at himself.

“You’re going to leave me out here with your prized fish?” He glanced at them from the corner of his eye. Then his eyes met SuoWei’s. Glare meeting a teasing smile.

“You-” He pointed at Chi Cheng. He chuckled, turning his head downwards as he shook his finger at Chi Cheng. “Are such an asshole.” Chi Cheng grabbed his hand at the wrist, pulling him in.

“And you’re the one who decided to help me.” SuoWei frowned angrily, tearing his hand from Chi Cheng’s grip. SuoWei huffed, standing up.

“I don’t have a bathtub to keep you in.” He crossed his arms and turned to look down at Chi Cheng, who looked up as well.

“I can always stay in your bed.” Chi Cheng teased, laughing at how the other reacted.

“You are really getting on my nerves. I don’t like men.” He pointed at Chi Cheng again, starting to get angry.

“I’m not a man though am I? What was it you said?” He looked up into the night sky, feigning a thoughtful expression. “A fish?” He mused. SuoWei breathed out, trying to hold himself back from hitting the merman.

“A fish who’s lucky I don’t gut him and sell at the market.” SuoWei threatened. Chi Cheng laughed again. His gills flared and his stomach tensed. His right hand clutched the bandaged area. Wu SuoWei’s features faltered for a moment, watching as the other man clutched his side. He pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing heavily.

“You can stay in my breeding area. It’s not big, but I can clear out a tub for you to stay in if you want.” Chi Cheng looked up through his pained expression. His gills heaved, making Chi Cheng’s chest rise, then gently fall. The gills sat flush against his skin again, relaxing.

“Am I one of your new prized fishes then?” Chi Cheng’s face softened again. Watching as SuoWei shook his head, placing his hands on his hips.

“Yeah yeah, whatever helps you heal faster.” He kneeled down, placing his hands under Chi Cheng’s arms again. He dragged him through the main living area. The familiar hum of filter systems and running water could be heard. Chi Cheng looked back as he was dragged into the room, he saw four large, black tubs almost at SuoWei’s hip level.

“What kind of fish do you have in these?” His genuine tone caught SuoWei a little off guard. He set Chi Cheng on the floor, and grabbed a small plastic step stool.

“See for yourself.” He motioned to the stool.

“What is that for?” Chi Cheng asked, eyebrow quirked upwards. SuoWei rolled his eyes. He pulled Chi Cheng to sit on it. His tail flapped uselessly against the ground in small protest.

Chi Cheng leaned over the edge of the tub and peered into the water. It was much clearer than the water of the pond outside. A handful of colourful koi swam around in it. Orange, white, black, even some yellow. They swam around each other, peacefully going in circles. Chi Cheng raised his hand up, placing it in the water. SuoWei watched carefully, making sure the merman didn’t do anything hasty.

The fish quickly swam away, then after a few moments were back to investigate. Chi Cheng gently swayed his hand in the water, chuckling gently as the fish mouthed at his skin. He caressed one’s head and it rubbed into the touch.

“They’re very cute.” SuoWei smiled to himself. “Just like their owner.” Chi Cheng turned to face him, a smug smile plastered on his mouth. SuoWei’s smile fell immediately, rolling his eyes at the man.

“Stop with the flirting, I told you already I don’t like men.” SuoWei walked over to another tub. He peered into the water, and grabbed a nearby net.

“That’s too bad. Cause I know it annoys you. How can I stop when it’s so funny to watch you squirm.” SuoWei shook his head. He picked up a brightly coloured koi in the net.

“I don’t squirm, for your information.” He placed it in an adjacent tub, then repeated it for another koi. “You can’t get under my skin that easily.” He turned to Chi Cheng, net still in hand.

“We’ll see about that, fisher boy.” Chi Cheng laughed. SuoWei clutched the net in his hand, but feigned a smile.

“Your tub is all ready for you then, your majesty.” Chi Cheng flinched a little and turned to him sharply.

“What?” He removed his hand from the water, instead harshly clutching the rim of the large black tub. SuoWei seemed confused at the look of—- worry? No, surely not that.

“I said the tub is ready. The koi in here are moved.” Chi Cheng relaxed, his grip softening. His gills flared again, stuttering closed against his skin.

“Right.” He sighed heavily, gills flaring again.

“Do you breathe through those?” SuoWei found himself saying. Chi Cheng gave him a confused expression.

“Breath through what?” He looked down, noticing his flared gills. “Oh, you mean my gills?” He looked back up to SuoWei, who nodded.

“You don’t seem to need to be in water to survive. At the very least you don’t need water to breathe.” He set the net down and walked over to the other man.

“I have a secondary form of respiratory system I can breathe through. Similar to yours, but in a way that can also be used through my gills.” Chi Cheng used a finger to lift one of his gills gently, revealing the bright red filaments[2] underneath. SuoWei looked in amazement, watching as the other gills flared up.

“Wow, just like the fish I catch. Do they need to be in water for you to use your gills then?” He stood up again. Chi Cheng lowered the gill, letting them settle against his skin again.

“To use them for their intended purpose, yes. They flare up in reaction to my breathing. And I do need water to survive. I’ll dry up if I stay out of water for too long.” 

“I should get you in the tub then. It already has a water filter and aeration system.” He lifted Chi Cheng off the stool and gently set his butt on the floor before dragging him over.

“Can you lift me that high?” Chi Cheng teased.

“Of course, I’m not weak. I’m a man after all.” The merman chuckled softly.

“Whatever you say.” He winced as SuoWei lifted him. The man’s arms fully under Chi Cheng’s armpits, hauling him up clumsily.

“Grab onto the side.” He strained, underestimating how heavy the merman really was. Chi Cheng did as told, using his uninjured side’s arm to push himself up. He still winced slightly as the pain shot across his stomach and into his stitches. SuoWei lifted him the rest of the way, setting him down on the edge of the tub.

Chi Cheng held onto the other to steady himself. He twisted on the edge, lifting his tail over and into the water.

“Be careful, don’t tear your stitches.” SuoWei warned, holding Chi Cheng by the waist.

”I’ve got it.” Chi Cheng lowered himself into the water, sighing as his tail fully submerged. He winced as his bandaged side hit the water. His hand clutched his side again, and he stopped.

”What’s wrong? Does your side hurt again?” SuoWei looked down at the white bandage, noticing the red spots on it.

”It’s fine, I don’t think anything ripped.” He noticed the staring, and continued to lower himself into the tub. He sighed, letting his gills flare in the water, breathing in. The water rose, almost spilling over onto the floor. SuoWei didn’t let go until Chi Cheng fully sat in the water, still worried. He pulled his arms out of the water, shaking off the excess moisture.

”I’ll have to double check with Shuai if it’s okay to keep it submerged for long periods of time.” SuoWei spoke mostly to himself.

”I’ll be fine. Water is the last thing I’m worried about after all.” Chi Cheng huffed. The tub was a little small, too small for him to fully extend his tail anyways. He shifted slightly, putting the end of his tail to rest over the edge of the tub’s rim.

”Still, it might be bad if something happens to it.” SuoWei checked the water filter, moving it out of the way for Chi Cheng to get comfortable. There was a silence between them for a moment. “How do mermaids usually take care of wounds?” He asked cautiously.

”We don’t tend to get wounds this big to start off with. Usually small ones. Pulled scales, cut fins, the occasional cut off sharp objects on the sea floor. It’s uncommon for mermaids to get injured this badly.” SuoWei listened carefully, taking in what he said.

”So,” Chi Cheng looked up at him, “Is this a first for you then? Have you ever had a wound this big?” Chi Cheng looked almost thoughtful for a second, perhaps thinking seriously.

”Not that I can remember. I don’t tend to do anything but sit around it seems like. My father is,” a slight silence as he thought for the right words, “Overly protective. He’s like that with my older sister as well.”

“You have siblings?” SuoWei found himself leaning on the tub, listening intently.

“Just the one. She’s mated, and has a child. He’s a sweet kid, but they have their own life. She doesn’t have time to visit often.” He says plainly. His tail flips around, and he lightly splashes with the rays of his tail at the surface.

“Mated? Like, she’s married?” SuoWei had heard the word before. It was mostly used for animals from what he can remember.

“If that’s what you call it then yes. It’s like a life partner. We use our teeth to mark our mates.” Chi Cheng clenched his jaw and pulled back his lips. SuoWei noticed how they looked smaller than the last time he saw them. They still had a fine point to them, but they weren’t as long as they had been at the clinic.

“Are they smaller?” He asked unconsciously. Chi Cheng huffed out a laugh.

“They retract slightly when we aren’t using them for hunting. It would be a massive pain to constantly have teeth that big in your mouth. SuoWei nodded along, almost agreeing.

“I see.” He tapped his legs with his fingers, not knowing what else to say. Chi Cheng could sense the awkwardness in the other man and spoke.

“Do you live here alone then? Do I have to worry about someone coming in and trying to kill me?” He propped his elbow on the side of the tub, leaning his head on his hand.

“No. I live here alone.” There was silence from SuoWei as he looked at nothing. He stared at the wall blankly before continuing. “My mom passed away last year, and my dad a long time before that. This house was left to me as their only child.” Chi Cheng shifted, catching SuoWei’s attention.

“I understand.” More silence. It was a little awkward, but SuoWei cleared his throat.

“I’ll let you be then. I’ll be back in the morning to check on you before I go out again.” He turned to look at Chi Cheng, smiling faintly. “I’ll be in the room over there if you need anything.” Chi Cheng nodded silently. He watched as SuoWei pushed himself off of the tub’s edge, walking into the next room over.

He sighed, then smiled to himself. SuoWei had opened up to him a little. This was just the start of getting closer.

---------

SuoWei woke up at his usual early time. He liked to get out to his boat early, knowing it gets busy later in the day. He walked out of his room and into his koi breeding room. He tends to go there in the morning to give a greeting to his fish. He stopped in the doorway sharply, noticing the large tail halfway out of one of them.

“Damn, I almost forgot about that.” He rubbed his hands over his face, and sighed. SuoWei walked over quietly, not seeing the merman’s head. He leaned over the edge of the tub, seeing the other man's head fully submerged. His eyes were closed, and he looked almost, peaceful. He glanced down, noticing the gills on Chi Cheng’s chest flare open, and then close gently. The white bandage on his side was slightly red, his blood must have washed out slightly from the water. SuoWei gently tapped his hand on the water’s surface.

“Chi Cheng.” He whispered. No response. He plunged his hand into the water slowly, reaching down to tap Chi Cheng’s face. The back of his hand made contact, putting a little more pressure just to mess with the merman. He let out a yelp as his wrist was grabbed harshly.

Chi Cheng held on tightly as he shifted upwards. His tail sunk more into the water as his head came up. Water rushed over his hair as it broke the surface. He glared at SuoWei as he struggled to get free.

“There are better ways to wake people up.” Chi Cheng’s voice was hoarse, and his eyes squinted shut as he adjusted to the lights.

“I tried to be nicer but you didn’t respond. AH- let go!” Chi Cheng twisted the man’s wrist a little. Chi Cheng huffed, releasing his wrist.

“Are you off then?” He pushed his hair back, leaning back against the tub. SuoWei rubbed at his wrist, scoffing.

“I will be in a little. I’m here to say good morning to my koi.” He turned to the tub behind him. SuoWei sunk his hand in the water, gently rubbing the koi that swam past his hands. 

“Good morning little fishies.” He smiled gently at the fish. He dipped his other hand into the water. Gently grabbing a fish, he turned it over and inspected its scales.

“You aren’t that gentle with me.” Chi Cheng noted. SuoWei scoffed, and turned to the merman. He let the koi free, watching it swim away quickly.

“You aren’t my koi. They need to be handled gently.” SuoWei crossed the room, saying hello to his other fish. Chi Cheng swayed his tail, hitting the side of the tub.

“They’re just fish.” He said bluntly.

“Well not to some people. While these are my breeding koi, I still care about them. Truthfully not to the extent of my prized koi, but still.” Chi Cheng sighed.

“Whatever you say.” He watched SuoWei say hello to the last of his fish. “Did you call your doctor friend?” He spoke up. SuoWei looked to him as he walked over.

“Oh that’s right. I need to call Shuai about your wound.” He pulled out his phone. Chi Cheng watched his fingers move quickly, then he brought the device up to his mouth and spoke into it.

“Shuai, is it okay for him to submerge his stitches? He said he’ll dry out if he’s out of water too long.” He removed it from his face, moving his fingers against it again.

“What is that?” Chi Cheng asked. He’d never hung around humans much. Only knowing things he’d heard from others. SuoWei looked at his phone and held it up, pointing at it.

“This?” Chi Cheng nodded. “It’s my phone. I can use it to talk to people in real time.” He turned it around, showing Chi Cheng the screen. SuoWei watched as Chi Cheng stared at the screen, scanning over it. He harshly grabbed the phone, to SuoWei’s protest.

“Ah, be careful. Don’t drop it in the water.” He tried to grab it back, being very aware of the closeness to the water.

“I won’t, I won’t.” Chi Cheng waved his hand away. Looking at the screen more closely, he used his finger to swipe at it. The screen moved with his movement and Chi Cheng looked shocked. A ding sounded from the phone and Chi Cheng clicked on the notification out of curiosity.

“Give me that back.” He reached for it again, but Chi Cheng held it over the opposite side of the tub. He looked at the screen and saw the name at the top. ‘Xiao Shuai’.

“It’s from your doctor. How do I talk to him?” He refused to give the phone back, wanting to learn.

“I’ll show you, but you have to give my phone back first.” Chi Cheng glanced at him skeptically, but handed it over anyway. SuoWei crouched down, annoyance on his face as he looked at Chi Cheng.

“Here, watch.” He tapped on the small triangle next to the message. Xiao Shuai’s voice sounded through the speaker.

“I would highly not recommend it. It could cause infection.” SuoWei sighed heavily. He tapped the screen, holding his thumb down as he spoke.

“He’s been in water all night. He said he wasn’t concerned about water so I didn’t worry. Can you come over and check his stitches before you head to the clinic today?” He took his thumb off and Chi Cheng looked up at him.

“So he is talking to you right now?” He pointed at the screen.

“Technically. I’m sending him messages, and he’ll listen to them and then reply.” Chi Cheng nodded. His eyes snapped to the screen again as another sound went off.

“What did he say?” Chi Cheng leaned over the edge of the tub. He pressed the same button SuoWei pressed. SuoWei pulled his phone away, but Xiao Shuai’s voice was heard through the phone.

“I can stop by with some supplies to redo the bandages. I’ll be there before you leave for the day.” SuoWei sighed again. He responded.

”Okay, I’ll wait for you then.” He sent the message and turned his phone off.

”Wait, I want it back.” Chi Cheng tried to grab the phone again, lifting up when SuoWei pulled back.

”I need it. It’s my phone anyway.” He kept it out of reach, laughing to himself at the annoyed expression Chi Cheng gave him.

”What if something happens? Won’t you be so~ worried about me?” He teased, trying to grab the phone again.

”Shrivel up. I need to get ready.” He heard Chi Cheng chuckle as he walked out of the room. SuoWei changed out of his night clothes, switching to something for warmer weather. He hoped it didn’t rain again today. As he brushed his teeth he walked back into the room Chi Cheng was in. He gaped at the merman as he was halfway out of the tub, reaching into the one next to him.

”What the hell are you doing? You’re gonna hurt yourself.” Chi Cheng watched as SuoWei hurriedly made his way over, pushing him back into the tub.

”I wanted to see your fish. I could hear them splashing around and wanted to see.” SuoWei glanced at the adjacent tub, noticing the koi splashing around.

”Can you talk to them?” He asked without thinking. Chi Cheng looked at him like he said something offensive.

“Of course not. But I get along with sea creatures easily for obvious reasons.” He sat back down in his tub, looking up to SuoWei.

”What do you eat then?” SuoWei continued to brush his teeth, waiting for the other’s response.

”I eat fish.” SuoWei’s hand slowed for a moment.

”So you basically eat your friends?”

”No. I eat fish. I’m not friends with them, I just get along with them.” He scoffed.

”When was the last time you ate?” He asked, spitting the toothpaste foam into the mug he held.

”The other day. I didn’t eat yesterday, and obviously not today.” He glanced to SuoWei’s koi, and smirked.

”Eh don’t even think about it!” SuoWei stepped in front of the adjacent tub. He stuck his arms out to the side, trying to shield the fish.

”Calm down. I won’t eat them.” He turned as he smiled to himself.

”Hey! I saw that.” SuoWei pointed, accusing the merman.

”Yeah, yeah. Finish what you’re doing and leave. Catch me some fish won’t you?” SuoWei mumbled under his breath.

”I’ll let you starve if I want.” He walked off, noticing the smirk on Chi Cheng’s face.

Chi Cheng sat in the water, staring up at the ceiling. He sank down, submerging his head. The sound of the water filter was relaxing, humming idly. His gills flared in the water, and he took a deep breath. He was used to doing much of nothing most days, but this was different. It was nice.

Chi Cheng heard muffled voices. It must have been the doctor from yesterday. He stayed under the water, simply moving the end of his tail.

”-eng. Chi C-“ He knew he was being called, but ignored it. More muffled voices. He felt the tapping on the surface of the water and opened his eyes. The water made rings, warping SuoWei’s face. He watched a hand come down into the water. Chi Cheng rose up, brushing his cheek against the hand. It was quickly pulled from the water at the contact.

“What?” He came up, addressing the two humans.

”I’m here to look at your stitches.” Chi Cheng looked over at Xiao Shuai. “I just need to make sure it’s not getting infected.”

”I probably should have washed the tub before I put him in.” SuoWei mumbled to himself.

”You didn’t-“ Xiao Shuai pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. “I’m going to pretend I didn’t hear that Da Wei.”

“Sorry Shuai. I just wanted to put him somewhere.” Xiao Shuai shook his head, but took out his bag.

”Alright, let me see them.” He took the small plastic stool and set it next to the tub Chi Cheng sat in. He took a seat and waited for Chi Cheng.

”Come help me.” Chi Cheng motioned towards SuoWei.

”Me? Why do I have to help?” He pointed at himself, looking confused.

”Yes, obviously you. And because you’re the one who put me in this tub in the first place.” Chi Cheng put his hands on the rim of the tub and attempted to push himself up. 

“Ah ah! Don’t do that. You’ll put too much strain on your side. Da Wei, help him.” SuoWei huffed.

”Xiao Shuai, you traitor.” Despite his protests, he made his way to the back of the tub, helping Chi Cheng sit on the edge.

“The bandage is all wet too, and it’s been soaking there all night.” Xiao Shuai shook his head. He took out a small bottle of iodine and a new bandage. Chi Cheng watched quietly, clutching his side.

“This time I’ll show you how to do it Da Wei, come here. I’ll give you all the supplies to keep it maintained and you can do it yourself then.” He motioned for SuoWei to come closer.

“Alright, teach me shifu.” He crouched down next to Xiao Shuai, watching closely.

“First, I’ll get rid of the old bandage and clean it.” SuoWei nodded.

Xiao Shuai’s hands moved slowly, making sure to explain everything important. He gently pulled the tape off, noticing the tensing muscles of Chi Cheng’s stomach and his flaring gills. He continued on, removing the soaked gauze patch. Chi Cheng sucked in a breath, feeling the gauze pull at his stitches slightly before snapping.

“Sorry, the gauze got stuck to the end of the suture.” He took a small pair of scissors, snipping off the stuck gauze on the suture.

“Will he need to keep it above water?” SuoWei looked over at Xiao Shuai. His friend nodded, glancing at him for a second.

“It would be better if he did for now, just to make sure it doesn’t get infected.” Chi Cheng scoffed at the comment. He winced as Xiao Shuai touched his wound.

“It’s a little red and inflamed, but nothing serious.”

“Quit touching it, would you?” Chi Cheng slapped his hand away.

“Do you want me to redo your bandages or not?” SuoWei smiled to himself, enjoying seeing the other in pain. Chi Cheng glanced at SuoWei before sighing.

“Fine, get it over with.” Xiao Shuai continued. He first lightly patted the sutures dry, making sure the area was good before moving on. He uncapped the iodine and took a Q-tip out, dipping it in the reddish liquid. He gently dabbed it on the sutures.

Chi Cheng sucked in a breath, tensing the muscles in his stomach at the pain. He squeezed his left eye shut, furrowing his brows as he looked down at the human work. He groaned, somewhat enjoying the pain of it.

SuoWei swallowed the lump he felt in his throat. He glanced at Chi Cheng’s face, noticing the merman now staring at him. He noted how Chi Cheng smirked at the way he stared. He could feel his face grow warm under the merman’s gaze. He looked away, back to the wound, trying to focus. Chi Cheng smiled, winning a small victory in his own mind.

“Last step Da Wei.” Xiao Shuai put the bottle and Q-tip down, picking up a clean bandage. “Take the bandage and line up properly. Press down and then take the tape and go all around the edges to secure it.” SuoWei nodded along, taking mental note of the instructions.

“Okay, I think I got it. Clean it, bandage, and then tape.” SuoWei repeated the steps. Xiao Shuai nodded, agreeing with the steps.

“Sounds good. I’ll leave this bag here. It has everything you need for basic upkeep to keep it clean.” SuoWei nodded.

“Thank you shifu, I’ll keep you updated.” Xiao Shuai smiled softly as he stood.

“I’ll be off then. Come say hi later when you finish out there okay?” He made his way to the door.

“I will, don’t worry.” He waved as Xiao Shuai left, walking through the courtyard and out of the metal gate doors. SuoWei walked back to see Chi Cheng gently touching the bandage.

“Don’t touch it idiot.” He walked up to Chi Cheng, taking his hand away from the bandage.

“I’m just making sure it’s secure.” He took his hand away from SuoWei’s grip. The man sighed, rubbing his eyes.

“Just listen to Shuai, don’t submerge it. I’ll be back later after I finish my fishing for today.” Chi Cheng scoffed.

“Whatever you say.” He flicked his tail, annoyed. SuoWei sighed again.

“I won’t be long today. Don’t worry.” Chi Cheng looked at him again and smirked.

“Whatever you say fisher boy.” SuoWei rolled his eyes. He walked out of the room, into the small courtyard. SuoWei kneeled down to see his prized koi.

“I’ll be back soon. Keep an eye on the merman for me.” He whispered. SuoWei walked out of his house and headed for the docks.

---------

The sun beamed down on SuoWei as he recast his net into the water. He wiped his forehead on his shirt’s sleeve. The fish weren’t biting as much today. Was it the storm yesterday? Maybe something was scaring them off? His thoughts were cut short as his line was violently pulled on. The rope in his hand burned as it was pulled. He let go of the rope as he yelped in pain. His hands burned, and he looked down to see rope burn on his palms.

“What the fuck was that?” He seemingly yelled to no one. SuoWei leaned over the edge of his boat, peering into the water. He jumped back as something shot out of the water. He stumbled back, landing on his butt as a loud thud was heard. He shielded his eyes from the splashing water.

“Where is he?” He opened his eyes at the voice. Shock plastered his face as he looked in front of him.

Another merman. What the hell. He leaned back onto his hand, right arm in front of him, trying to shield his body. He hadn’t registered what he said, and was shouted at again.

“Where is he?!” He winced at the harsh tone. He could feel his voice shake as he watched the merman bare his sharp teeth at him.

“Where is, who?” The merman crawled closer, too close for SuoWei’s comfort.

“Where is Chi Cheng?”

Chapter Text

Wu SuoWei felt fear run through his body. He couldn’t move. Seeing those sharp teeth pointing at him, he could almost already see his life flash before his eyes. He almost hadn’t registered the second time he was asked the question.

”Where is Chi Cheng?” The merman asked again. He was inching closer, and Wu SuoWei couldn’t do anything. His voice came out quiet, like it wasn’t even his own.

”Ch-Chi Cheng?” He swallowed, trying to back up a little. His legs shifted, pushing himself back on the deck of the boat. The merman only moved closer.

”Where is he? Why is his blood on your boat?” He crawled closer, way too close for SuoWei’s comfort. SuoWei glanced at the dried blood spot on his wooden deck. Fuck. This looks really bad on his part. A fisherman who has the blood of a mermaid on his boat? The merman came closer, almost between SuoWei’s legs, but he put an arm out, trying to create some kind of distance between them.

”Wait! Wait! I can explain, I swear!” He shouted, trying to not get himself killed.

”Then you better start talking, human.” The merman’s face gave an angry expression. SuoWei swallowed again, trying to keep his voice from cracking.

”Yesterday, d-during the storm,” He tested the waters, gauging the other’s expression, “I was out on the water. He-he came onto my boat with a large wound.” The merman inched closer.

”Ah ah! It wasn’t me, I swear!” He waved his hand in defense in front of himself. “I was trying to get back when I heard him land on my boat. I went to check out what it was and I saw him.” The merman’s face softened slightly, processing what SuoWei said.

”Then where is he now? On your boat?” He glanced around, not seeing anyone but SuoWei.

”No, he’s on land. At my home. I took him to get help, from my friend who is a doctor. He stitched his wound, and now he’s at my home.” The merman seemed to relax, his shoulders slumping, and a sigh came from him. SuoWei noticed the flaring gills, just like Chi Cheng does often.

”Is he okay?” There was concern in his voice. SuoWei nodded.

”Other than the wound, he’s perfectly fine from what I could tell. And I’m keeping him in water.” Another sigh from the merman.

”How do I know you aren’t just telling me what I want to hear?” His face hardened again, attempting to come closer again. SuoWei raised his hand again.

”I can prove it! Meet me at the docks later, at night. I swear I’ll bring him and show you he’s okay.” The skeptical look on the merman’s face made worry bubble up in SuoWei’s chest.

”Why not just give him back to me then at that point?” SuoWei would agree if it wasn’t for what Xiao Shuai said. He would give him back in a heartbeat. So why didn’t he want to? Was it guilt over the injury? The want to take care of him the whole way? The worry that Chi Cheng might get worse if he wasn’t there to help? He couldn’t answer his own questions.

”I-I was told he needs to keep the wound above water for it to heal properly. It might get worse if it stays wet.” SuoWei felt worry come up again as the merman crawled closer. The man scrunched his face.

“If you aren’t there tonight, I’ll make sure you’re never able to sail this boat here again. Understand?” SuoWei nodded quickly.

”Yes, I understand.” He watched the merman relax slightly.

”I’ll be waiting there tonight.” SuoWei watched as the merman turned around, and dove off his boat into the water. He waited a few minutes, letting his beating heart calm down before he got up.

”What the hell did I get myself into.” He spoke to himself. SuoWei looked down at his hands, noticing the red rope marks. He winced as he closed his hands. He couldn’t do much with his hands like this. SuoWei sighed, deciding to end early today and head back to the harbour.

---------

After SuoWei tied his boat to the dock, he made his way to the small clinic. People walked in and out, with minor wounds or sick faces. He passed by a few people, making his way to his friend.

”Xiao Shuai.” SuoWei whined a little. His friend looked up from the chart he was going over.

”Da Wei? What are you doing back so early? You usually stay out till sunset.” He set the clipboard down, walking over to his distressed friend.

”It happened again. I must be cursed.” He gave a pout, grabbing onto Xiao Shuai’s forearms. His friend grabbed his arms back, looking at his face.

”What happened again? No fish today?” SuoWei shook his head, looking down at the floor.

”Another mermaid.” He mumbled. Xiao Shuai tilted his head, not fully hearing the man.

”Huh? Another what?” SuoWei lifted his head, mock crying face as he spoke louder.

”Another mermaid!” Xiao Shuai’s eyes widened for a moment before his hand clapped over SuoWei’s mouth.

”What do you mean another mermaid?” He quietly shouted. SuoWei spoke into his friend’s palm, his voice muffled.

”He harassed me on my boat. He gave me rope burns on my hands.” SuoWei held up his palms, the skin red, almost bleeding.

“Wu SuoWei, why didn’t you start with that?” He asked harshly, taking SuoWei’s hands. “You should have led with that. Come on.” Xiao Shuai led his friend to a small sink, turning the water on. He put SuoWei’s hands under the cold water, letting him pull away for a moment before putting them back under.

”I know it hurts, but the water will help before I can do more.” SuoWei nodded, doing as told. The water started to help, cooling down his hands. The pulsing in his hands subsided, now barely hurting.

“He pulled my casting net out of my hands while I was holding it.” SuoWei explained before he was even asked. He knew his friend well enough to know he was wondering what had happened.

“What an asshole.” Xiao Shuai shook his head, grimacing.

“He was asking about Chi Cheng. I told him he was okay but now he wants to meet me tonight. And I have to bring that overgrown fish to him to prove he’s okay.” SuoWei fake sobbed, turning to his friend, pouting.

“Come on now Da Wei, you aren’t going to give into this crazy merman’s demands are you?” He clicked his tongue at his friend, disappointed in his willingness to give in.

“He threatened to sabotage my fishing. Or maybe he meant worse. I don’t know shifu, I don’t want to risk it.” Another whine from SuoWei as he took his hands out from under the water. Xiao Shuai sighed, dragging his friend over to a table and grabbing a first aid kit.

“You’ve gotten yourself into some deep trouble Da Wei.” Xiao Shuai patted SuoWei’s hands dry carefully.

“I don’t know why this had to happen to me of all people. I must really be cursed.” He let Xiao Shuai work, wincing as his friend applied some burn cream to his hands. His hands were wrapped in a bandage, gauze in between his palm and the cloth for extra padding.

“Ah, don’t worry Da Wei, I’m sure it’ll work out alright. You can just give Chi Cheng back to this other merman. He’ll be out of your hair forever then.” Xiao Shuai taped the bandages down, making sure it was secure. He looked up to see a thoughtful face on his friend.

“But,” Why was he questioning it? Xiao Shuai was right, he could just give Chi Cheng back. This whole ordeal would be over, no more mermaid problems. And yet, he still hesitated. “You said he needed to keep his wound dry, or else it might get infected.” SuoWei thought to himself, knowing this would be a good excuse.

“That’s true, but he’s not human. Maybe being in the water will do him more good than being out of it.” Xiao Shuai rubbed his friend's arms reassuringly. SuoWei sighed, laughing gently.

“You’re right. I’ll go back and tell Chi Cheng then. He’ll want to know someone is looking for him.” He looked up at his friend, and smiled. Xiao Shuai nodded, smiling in return. SuoWei stood up, making his way to the exit of the clinic. He bid his friend farewell before heading home.

He didn’t live far from the clinic, maybe a few minute walk, but it felt all too long to be alone with his thoughts. Why was he so hesitant on giving Chi Cheng back? It would be better if he was with his kind, not stuck on land in a plastic tub he could barely fit in. Though, despite his arrogant attitude and his annoying flirting attempts, SuoWei enjoyed Chi Cheng’s company. It was nice talking to someone, no matter how annoyed they made him. 

SuoWei stood at the entrance to his home. The metal doors stared at him as he stood there. Waiting for him to do something. He reached up, looking at his bandaged hands before gently opening the doors with a loud creak. The first thing he noticed was Chi Cheng, sitting on the ground. When did he get out of the room? He looked closer, noticing his tail was halfway in the small courtyard pond, with his prized koi. He stood there for a moment, simply watching as Chi Cheng leaned back onto his arms, face towards the sky.

“Are you just going to stand there?” Chi Cheng asked, tilting his head all the way back to look at SuoWei. He smirked as SuoWei bowed his head before entering the courtyard. He hid his hands behind his back, not wanting Chi Cheng to see his bandages.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to disturb you.” He walked closer, standing behind Chi Cheng. SuoWei looked into the small fish pond, watching as his koi weaved under and around Chi Cheng’s dark tail. They seemed to enjoy playing around his long tail rays, hiding in the long strands.

“It’s your home. How could you disturb me?” Another smirk as he looked down at the koi. “I think they like me.” Chi Cheng raised his tail, startling the koi slightly before they settled down against him again.

“I think they like your tail.” SuoWei huffed. He fidgeted with his nails behind his back. Chi Cheng hummed in agreement, looking back up at the man.

“Bad day? The sun hasn’t even started going down.” He looked up into the sky, closing an eye at the brightness. SuoWei cleared his throat.

“Actually, I ran into some trouble.” Chi Cheng looked at him again.

“Someone bullying you?” He chuckled. His gaze fell onto the koi again. Chi Cheng splashed his tail again, being met with excited swimming from the fish.

“Not exactly.” He paused, noticing no change in Chi Cheng’s demeanour before continuing. “I met another merman.” He saw how Chi Cheng tensed, ceasing his tail’s movement.

“And what did they have to say?” Chi Cheng clenched his jaw, face grimacing.

“He said he was looking for you. He seemed worried, and I told him you were fine.” SuoWei noted how the other man’s shoulders relaxed slightly.

“Anything else?” He turned his head slightly, only enough to side eye SuoWei.

“I said I would bring you to meet him tonight.” His shoulders tensed again. “At the docks. He threatened me too.” A harsh movement of Chi Cheng’s tail against the water. A large splash of water, and the koi swimming away from the impact, scared.

“I never agreed to that.” SuoWei rushed to kneel at the pond, making sure his fish were okay. Chi Cheng grabbed his left wrist, pulling it closer.

“Hey! What are you doing? You can't just do that to my koi.” SuoWei raised his voice, worry for his fish at the forefront of his mind.

“What happened to your hands?” Chi Cheng inspected the bandages. SuoWei pulled his hand away, shaking off the pressure in his wrist.

“My rope got pulled while I was holding it. Just some rope burn. Nothing serious.” Chi Cheng scoffed, gently swaying his tail in the water again. His gills flared, the noticeable red filaments showing as they lifted.

“What was his name?” SuoWei looked confused for a second before understanding the question.

“I don’t know. He just told me to bring you, threatened me and then left.” SuoWei explained.

“What colour was his tail?” His voice more harsh, demanding. Chi Cheng needed to know if it was who he thought it was.

“I wasn’t really paying attention to that.” Chi Cheng was starting to get pissed off at the lack of answers.

“Then what do you remember?” He raised his voice, startling SuoWei a little.

”Why do you care so much? I thought you’d be happy to go back.” SuoWei stood back up.

”If going back there means I’m stuck in the same place day in and day out like usual, then I’d rather stay here.” Chi Cheng removed his tail from the water, straining to back up. SuoWei watched silently, not wanting to anger the man more.

”But out there you can do whatever you want. In here, you’re stuck in a small tub, barely able to move.” Chi Cheng glanced up to the man, noticing the sorrowful expression.

”You don’t know anything about my life out in the water. At least here, you don’t force me to stay in place. You left me alone for half a day. I could never get that back home.” SuoWei felt bad for a moment.

”I don’t want to keep you here though. Maybe you could go do your own thing, instead of going back home.” He fiddled with his bandages, gently pulling at the loose, fraying strands.

”It’s not that simple. I’d end up getting taken back sooner or later.” Chi Cheng sighed, stealing a glance at the human.

”Just tell him I’m not going back. I don’t care who he is.” Chi Cheng’s gills flared again, and he clutched his side. SuoWei sighed, crouching down next to the merman.

”Let me help you back.” Che Cheng let himself be pulled back to the room. There was an awkward silence between them as SuoWei helped Chi Cheng into the tub again.

”Are your koi okay? I didn’t mean to hurt them.” His face gave a slight grimace, seemingly not used to the words.

”They aren’t hurt. I know you’re just angry.” Chi Cheng hummed, agreeing with the statement. “I don’t know what I’m gonna do now. He threatened me, saying I would never be able to use my boat here again. I’m not sure what he meant, but..” He trailed off.

Chi Cheng sighed. His tail swayed in the water, which was far lower than it was previously. He had taken some out while SuoWei had left for the day, heading the doctor’s order.

”What time did he ask you to meet him there?” Chi Cheng propped his elbow up, and rested his head on his hand.

”He said at night, but no specific time.” SuoWei sat on the edge of the tub, looking over his shoulder at Chi Cheng.

”I’ll think about it. Come back later and I’ll give you my answer.” He turned away from SuoWei, flicking his tail again.

”Alright. Do you want me to get you something to eat? Do you eat, uhm, fish?” Chi Cheng turned back, smirking.

”Usually yes. That’s what I eat in the sea. I’d be willing to try something new though.” His hand reached up to touch SuoWei’s side. The man jumped up at the contact.

”Okay okay! I’ll make you something.” SuoWei fixed his shirt, pulling it down.

”Sensitive aren’t you?” Chi Cheng’s normal teasing nature found its way back. It was hard to hide the eyeroll SuoWei gave as he walked away.

”You’re lucky I don’t want you to die. Or else I’d let you starve!” He shouted at Chi Cheng from the other room. SuoWei could practically hear the smirk in Chi Cheng’s voice as he shouted back.

“Make it good for me!” He swayed his tail, hearing SuoWei groan.

---------

SuoWei skillfully pressed the dough balls into thin, flat disks. He thought back to the many times his mother would help him make dumplings when she was alive. Her cooking was always better than his alone. The soups she made, seared meat and skillfully steamed fish. He smiled to himself at the happy memories. His attention shifted to the pan of meat and vegetables, setting down the ball of dough and stepping over to the stove top.

SuoWei dusted his hands off on his shirt, and took the wooden spoon. He hummed to himself as he stirred the pan. SuoWei reached up, turning the heat down so he could finish the dumpling wrappers. He lost count of how many he made, just pressing and putting them to the side. The smell of fish started to waft over SuoWei’s senses as the small pot of stew started to simmer. He made sure to keep an eye on it, only walking over to stir it once he flattened all the dough balls he had.

The meat and vegetables were moved to a large bowl, set aside for the dumplings. SuoWei took a small spoonful of the fish stew, making sure it tasted right. He was worried it might be too salty, but it was good, like his mom had taught him. He went through the steps, having them down to muscle memory. It had been some time since he had made enough for more than himself, but it didn’t matter much.

The stew was set for a lower temperature, barely above a simmer as SuoWei continued making the dumplings. He took a wrapper into his hand, and a spoonful of meat and vegetables. He repeated the movements until he finished the bowl of stuffing. The large wok set aside was moved to the stove top. SuoWei put some water in the bottom and turned the stove on, letting it heat up. As the water came to a boil, he set the dumplings in the tiered baskets, making sure there was enough room between them all.

SuoWei gently set the bamboo steamer on the wok as the water boiled. He started to clean as everything finished. Washing his hands, wiping the excess flour off of the table, cleaning utensils and cookware. He wondered if Chi Cheng might like some rice wine. Has he ever had alcohol? Would it be safe to let him try? His thoughts were cut short when the small timer had gone off for the dumplings.

He hummed again as he finished everything, taking the steamer off the wok and turning all of the stove tops off. He set the stew aside to cool down. SuoWei used a pair of chopsticks to take the steaming dumplings out of the baskets, plating them neatly. As he brought everything to the table, he smiled to himself. The satisfaction bubbling up in his chest as he looked at his hard work.

Chi Cheng sat patiently in the other room. His stomach growled as he continued to smell the food Wu SuoWei was cooking. There were smells he couldn’t recognize, but the undeniable smell of fish was a welcome familiarity. He wondered if SuoWei’s cooking was any good. He’d never had any authentic human food. Maybe a stolen cooked fish here and there throughout the years, but nothing that smelled like this. It was a little exciting getting to try new things.

Time went by and Chi Cheng still sat in place, waiting. There were points where he thought SuoWei had forgotten about him. He was proven wrong when he saw the, now familiar, human walking into the room with a tray of food.

”What’s all that?” Chi Cheng asked, pointing at the tray.

”The food I just made, obviously.” SuoWei looked down at it.

”Why are you bringing it in here? I saw you had a place out there to eat.” He pointed in the direction of the dining room, past SuoWei.

“Yeah, but it would be annoying to have to carry you out there and then back after you’re done.” SuoWei made his way over to the tub, taking a seat on the small plastic stool.

“Is this just for me?” Chi Cheng asked, getting a better view of the food on the tray.

”Of course not.” He slapped Chi Cheng’s hand away. “I made you a small portion to try first.” SuoWei took a small table stand nearby, setting the tray down.

Chi Cheng gave a wary sniff, noticing the fish more than anything. He looked at the dumplings, pointing at them.

”What are those?” He went to pick one up, but his hand was slapped away again.

”Don’t use your fingers.” SuoWei picked up a spare pair of chopsticks and handed them to Chi Cheng. “We use these. They’re called chopsticks.” Chi Cheng looked annoyed as he held the wooden sticks in his webbed hand. He watched as SuoWei effortlessly slid them between his fingers and picked up a dumpling with the ends of them.

”How do I use them?” He tried copying SuoWei, to his annoyance. The webbing on his hand made it difficult for him to use them properly.

”Here, like this.” SuoWei grabbed Chi Cheng’s hands, positioning them in the right place. It was a little difficult with the webbing, but he found a way to make it work. Chi Cheng stared at SuoWei as he moved his hands.

Chi Cheng fumbled with them for a few seconds before copying SuoWei again, starting to get the hang of it. He picked up a dumpling and smelled it. SuoWei watched him, chewing his own carefully. The merman bit into it, pulling it back as it burned his tongue.

”Careful, it’s hot.” Chi Cheng looked at him annoyed.

”You should've told me that before I bit into the damn thing.” SuoWei chuckled, setting his own dumpling down. 

“Here, drink some of this.” SuoWei held up a small glass of rice wine, urging the man to drink.

”What’s this?” Chi Cheng took the glass and smelled the opaque liquid.

“It’s home made rice wine. My mother’s recipe.” SuoWei took his own glass and gave it a small sip. Chi Cheng followed, tasting it. The taste hit the back of his throat roughly. The slight burn of something he had never tasted before mixing with the sweet flavor of the drink. He coughed after drinking, setting the glass down on the tray.

“What the hell is that?” He didn’t hate it, but being unused to the burn made his throat hurt.

“Hah, it’s alcohol.” SuoWei laughed nervously, drinking more of his own glass. “I wasn’t sure if you’d like it. I’ll get you something else to drink.” He made to stand up but was stopped. Chi Cheng grabbed his wrist – a little harsher than he intended to.

“It’s fine. I’ll drink it.” Chi Cheng released SuoWei’s wrist, taking the small glass again.

“Don’t drink it if you don’t like it.” SuoWei reached for the glass, but Chi Cheng downed it in one swig. He cringed as the liquid went down his throat.

“I didn’t say I don’t like it.” Chi Cheng smacked his lips, tasting it better. He enjoyed it, the aftertaste wasn’t bad and the alcohol was starting to become a welcome burn.

“Geez, you’re unbearable.” SuoWei sat back down, picking up the other half of his dumpling. Chi Cheng joined him, leaned against the side of the tub as he reached over the rim. 

“I want some of that too.” Chi Cheng pointed at the small bowl of soup.

“Mm, here.” Before SuoWei could think of stopping, he had taken a spoonful and held it up for Chi Cheng. Hand under the spoon so it didn’t drip on anything. The merman stared at the spoon for a second before carefully taking it into his mouth. He noted how SuoWei stared at him, smirking to himself. He pulled away, lips closed around the spoon to take the liquid. He made sure to stick his tongue out to lick his lips after, noticing how SuoWei followed its movements.

“It’s good. Better than raw fish I’d say.” He smirked as SuoWei continued to stare, dumbfounded. “What? Fish got your tongue?” SuoWei snapped himself free of his staring, setting the spoon back into the bowl.

“You’re doing that on purpose.” He picked up his set of chopsticks and ate another dumpling in one bite.

“Hm? Doing what?” Chi Cheng teased. He knew what he was doing very well. Trying to get a reaction out of the human.

“Ugh, whatever. Finish that and I’ll go get you more.” SuoWei continued to eat, grumbling under his breath the more Chi Cheng seemed to tease him. Chi Cheng reached for one of SuoWei’s dumplings, chuckling as his hand was slapped away.

“I want one of yours.” He reached again, and SuoWei took his plate away.

“I’ll go get you more.” Chi Cheng watched as he got up, swaying his tail happily.

“Yes, go do that for me.” He noticed the eyeroll from SuoWei as he turned away. “Da Bao.” SuoWei stopped at the name and whipped around.

“You are really testing my patience. Be lucky I don’t want you to starve.” SuoWei stormed out of the room, hearing Chi Cheng chuckle behind him.

Chi Cheng knew he was getting under the human’s skin. It was cute in a way Chi Cheng didn’t entirely understand himself. Why he enjoyed messing with him so much. There was something warm that bloomed in his chest every time he saw that adorable grimace on SuoWei’s face. He waited for SuoWei to return.

The gentle sound of footsteps pounded as SuoWei got closer. He sighed as he entered the room – a full plate of dumplings and bowl of stew in hands.

“Here you go asshole. Don’t waste any or I’m not making you anymore.” He set the food down on the tray again.

“So kind to me.” Chi Cheng chuckled again. SuoWei sat down, huffing. They sat in silence as they ate, SuoWei occasionally chuckling as he watched Chi Cheng struggle with the chopsticks.

“Do you cook often?” Chi Cheng asked between bites. SuoWei looked up from his bowl, swallowing the soup.

“Not always. I don’t do it as often as I’d like to. I used to cook all the time with my mom. After she died, I had a hard time finding joy in cooking anything. It’s taken a lot of time for me to do it again.” Chi Cheng listened carefully. SuoWei seemed to smile a little, seemingly thinking of something.

“You’re a good cook.” Chi Cheng said earnestly. He enjoyed what SuoWei had made, even wanting to ask for more if there was any left.

“Thank you. Maybe before you go I can make you something else.” SuoWei stared down at the tray, noticing how empty it was.

“Before I go?” Chi Cheng asked. SuoWei looked at him, tilting his head.

“You’re going to go back right?” Chi Cheng’s expression changed harshly, grimacing.

“I told you I never agreed to that.” SuoWei huffed again. He pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Chi Cheng, you can’t just run away like this. Can you at least agree to go to the docks with me?” There was a moment of silence before Chi Cheng responded.

“If only to settle this, then yes.” He crossed his arms over his chest, wincing. He had almost forgotten his bandages.

“Okay. I’ll come get you when I plan on going.” SuoWei stood up, gather the dishes. Chi Cheng watched silently as SuoWei walked out of the room, leaving him alone once again. He could hear the clinking of the dishes SuoWei took, presumably washing them.

Chi Cheng kept thinking about it, going back. He never felt free back home, it was hell, and he didn’t want to go back. He’d humour SuoWei and go to the docks tonight. But there was nothing he could say to make him go back into the sea. He could hear footsteps approaching again. SuoWei’s head poked through the doorframe.

“I’ll be back when it gets dark to take you.” There was something in his voice. Something Chi Cheng couldn’t point out exactly. The human slinked away into the next room before Chi Cheng could think much about it. He sighed to himself, rubbing at his eyes.

The night seemed to come sooner than Chi Cheng would have liked. The lights in SuoWei’s home now more noticeable as the sky turned dark outside. There was no movement heard in the last few hours from the other man. Had he fallen asleep? What was he doing? Chi Cheng wanted to know. His tail flicked in annoyance at his lack of movement. His lack of legs, and his wounded side helped with nothing. He was forced to either get out of this tub himself, or sit and wait patiently for SuoWei. He decided on the former, wound be damned.

Chi Cheng shakily lifted himself up. Using the side of the tub to get higher. His hands grabbed the rim of the tub and he hoisted himself up. His arms shook as his side hurt. It felt like pain shooting out from his wound and he grunted. He managed so sit down on the edge, giving himself a second to rest. Chi Cheng spun around, laying his tail on the ground below him. He ungracefully slid onto the ground, hitting the stone floor with a thud.

“Stupid hard ass floor.” He rubbed at his lower back. There was a faint voice from the other room. Chi Cheng looked at the doorway, almost waiting for him. It seems just on cue, SuoWei came into the room, eyes squinting at the light.

“What the hell are you doing? You’re gonna hurt yourself.” SuoWei rushed over to the merman, immediately looking at the bandage. It had small red spots on the white bandage. SuoWei mentally swore to Chi Cheng.

“I’m sick of waiting in here. It’s already dark out.” Chi Cheng smacked the hand away from his side. SuoWei struggled against Chi Cheng’s hands, trying to check his bandages. His hand slipped and accidentally jabbed into the wounded area. Chi Cheng’s whole body tensed up as he leaned his body away from SuoWei.

“Fuck! What is your problem?” He clutched his side again, torso shaking slightly.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to.” SuoWei tried to help, but didn’t know what to do. His hands hovered over Chi Cheng’s shaking figure. He took a deep sigh and laid a gentle hand on Chi Cheng’s shoulder.

“Please.” Chi Cheng glanced at him for a moment. “Just let me help.” SuoWei’s almost desperate voice sparked something deep inside of Chi Cheng’s being. The merman gently gave in, letting SuoWei check his bandages. A sharp inhale as SuoWei gently tore the tape away, gauze coming with it.

“Be careful.” Chi Cheng gritted through his teeth. SuoWei glanced up at the man, nodding.

“I’ll try to go slow. I can’t guarantee it will hurt less.” SuoWei finished taking the bandage off, noticing the small amount of bleeding from Chi Cheng’s sutured wound. SuoWei reached to grab the medical bag Xiao Shuai left him. He took out the needed materials – iodine, a clean bandage and medical tape. SuoWei took an extra towel from the bag, and dabbed at the leaking blood.

“This will hurt.” Chi Cheng nodded, readying himself. SuoWei gently pressed the Q-tip to the wound, disinfecting it. He swallowed as he listened to Chi Cheng grunt beside him. He finished quickly, rebandaging the sutures in a less than pretty way. It wasn’t perfect like how Xiao Shuai had done it, but it was good enough.

“Done?” Chi Cheng sighed. SuoWei nodded, gently tapping the tape around the edges.

“I’m done. It’s not pretty but it’s done.” Chi Cheng chuckled. Looking at the bandage. It was a little crooked, but otherwise fully covered the sutures.

“It’ll be fine for now.” Chi Cheng smirked. He lifted his hand up, touching it to SuoWei’s chin, gently lifting it up. “Kiss it better for me?” SuoWei’s expression quickly changed from worry to annoyance.

“Asshole.” SuoWei slapped the hand away, and stood up.

“What? It might help.” He watched as SuoWei left the room. “What? No sense of humour?” Chi Cheng chuckled again at the loud groan heard from the other room. 

SuoWei searched around one of the closets, searching for the small cart he owned. He used to use it for carrying heavy fish and tubs, but misplaced it a while ago. He rummaged around more, finding it behind a large stack of boxes. He pulled it out and set it on the floor. He moved the cart around with his foot to make sure it wasn’t broken anywhere. He kicked it into the room where Chi Cheng was.

“Alright, let’s get you moving.” Chi Cheng looked between the small wooden cart and SuoWei.

“What’s this for?” He pushed it with the end of his tail.

“It’s to move you easier. I’ll get nowhere if I have to drag you everywhere.” Chi Cheng looked up at him and tilted his head, smirking again.

“But I like when you drag me around.” The rays of his tail brushed against SuoWei’s ankle and he jolted back. 

“You just like being weird.” Chi Cheng hummed in agreement. “Yeah yeah, shut it. Lemme get a tub ready.” Chi Cheng watched as SuoWei grabbed a smaller tub to fit on the cart. He filled it from the small spicket on the wall, just enough to keep the bottom full.

“Alright, come on.” SuoWei walked behind Chi Cheng, and dragged him over. He locked the wheels in place with his foot as he lifted the merman up. Chi Cheng swung his tail over the smaller tub, much easier than the other. SuoWei helped him get comfortable before stepping back.

”Is this the biggest one you have?” Chi Cheng looked at how his tail hung out of the tub. The stark differences between the larger tub and this one were large. While the other tub was higher and wider. This one was much lower to the ground, barely two feet high. While the larger tub was long enough to fit the majority of his tail sitting down, this tub could just barely fit half of his full tail.

”It’s not exactly made to fit full sized human-fish people.” SuoWei crouched down, more eye level. He smiled at Chi Cheng’s annoyed face. 

“Let’s just get this over with.” Chi Cheng tucked his tail into the tub, folding it to sit next to him. SuoWei stared for a moment, not realizing how flexible it could be. He snapped out of his stupor, standing up. The water in the small tub sloshed around as SuoWei pushed it.

The cart rolled along the cobbled path outside. SuoWei thanked the heavens it didn’t have a squeaky wheel. The last thing he wanted was for someone to come out and see him carting around a goddamn mermaid. There was splashing in the water off the path, SuoWei’s attention was taken from the path for a second. He swallowed the nervous lump in his throat and he unconsciously stopped.

”Are we going to the docks or not?” Chi Cheng’s mellow voice snapped him out of his thoughts. SuoWei’s gaze flickered back and forth from the water to Chi Cheng for a few moments. He kept pushing.

”Right, sorry.” Chi Cheng hummed, taking note of the nervous tone in the man’s voice.

The last few minutes of the walk were silent aside from the cart wheels against the stone path. The wood of the docks was close, and SuoWei’s heartbeat sped up. Why was he so nervous? He did as he was told and brought Chi Cheng. There would be no need for the other merman to follow through with his threats. So why did his heart beat in his ears? Why did his breath feel shallow, like he couldn’t take in an entire lungful? Why were his hands shaking against the rim of the tub as he pushed Chi Cheng along?

”You’re thinking too loudly.” Chi Cheng’s arm reached up, his fingers snapping in SuoWei’s face.

”I am not.” SuoWei couldn’t help the small wobble in his voice as he spoke. He mentally cursed himself for his inability to level himself. Chi Cheng sighed.

”Just take me to the end of the path, right off the dock. He’ll know I’m here.” Chi Cheng sounded annoyed.

”Wouldn’t it be easier to take you to the end of the dock?” Chi Cheng shook his head.

”No, he might try to pull me in.” SuoWei would have asked what he meant if it wasn’t for the loud splashing in the water. He froze up again. He wouldn’t admit it out loud, but he was scared. While Chi Cheng was annoying and rude, this other merman was different. He had openly bared his teeth, threatened him, stalked up to him like he was his next meal.

”Will he,” SouWei thought of his next words carefully. He leaned down, whispering close to Chi Cheng’s face. “Try to kill me, if you don’t go with him?” He noticed how Chi Cheng turned his face towards him. He smiled, the asshole.

“I won’t let him.” Chi Cheng laughed at how SuoWei whined in annoyance. SuoWei continued to push the cart, moving until he got to the connection of stone and wood.

”What now?” SuoWei asked above him. Chi Cheng looked up, watching as SuoWei picked at his fingers.

”If he keeps on what he said, he’ll be here soon. Help me out.” Chi Cheng unfolded his tail, flopping it out of the small tub. He put his hands on the edge, pushing himself up with a painful groan.

”Ah, let me help.” SuoWei was quick to bend down, hooking his hands under Chi Cheng’s arms. He hauled the merman up, setting him down on the wooden dock. There was a moment of quiet, and then a loud slamming sounded on the dock.

SuoWei jumped back in surprise, landing on his butt. Chi Cheng seemed unfazed, turning towards the sound. There was a clawed, webbed hand clutching at the wood of the docks. It was followed by another, and then a figure hauling itself up.

Chi Cheng scoffed, seeing the figure in its entirety as it sat on the wooden dock.

”I fucking knew it.” Chi Cheng turned away from the other merman, looking instead at SuoWei. He was watching the other merman, clutching his shirt, right over his heart. Chi Cheng flicked his tail towards the other merman, annoyed as he inched over to SuoWei.

”Not even a hello?” The other merman’s voice was much cheerier than earlier in the day, SuoWei noted.

”I didn’t ask for you to come get me.” Chi Cheng said, annoyance clear in his tone.

”You may not have, but other people did.” SuoWei looked between them. There was a sense of familiarity between them. He stayed silent, listening to the two mermen argue.

”Oh how surprised I am. Being gone for a few days means the end of the world.” Chi Cheng turned back to the other merman, waving his hand dramatically in the air.

”Chi Cheng, you know why he needs you back.” The other merman moved closer, his tail now more visible. SuoWei looked, taking in the larger tail and fins. His tail was a bold green, with spots of grey scattered around. He had an additional set of gills against his chest — three instead of two like how Chi Cheng had.

”Because he wants me to do whatever he wants whenever he wants.” The other merman gave a grimace.

”And he’s worried.” Chi Cheng scoffed, looking away from the other.

“He’s never been worried about me a day in his damn life.” He pushed away from the other merman.

“He’s not the only one. Your chosen mate is worried too, you know.” Chi Cheng turned his head towards the other sharply.

“Guo ChengYu. Shut up.” SuoWei’s eyes widened. Something in his chest tightened. Chosen mate? What did that mean? He remembered what Chi Cheng said the other day. Mates are similar to marriages. He noted though, how Chi Cheng mentioned something about biting. He never noticed any kind of teeth marks on Chi Cheng. That didn’t stop the questioning tightness of his chest.

“Come on. We both know what she’s like. She keeps bothering me. Asking when you’ll be back.” Another pain in SuoWei’s chest. What was wrong with him? Why was he reacting like this?

“And we both know how I feel about it. I never wanted a chosen mate. And I don’t want you here. I’m not going back.” He turned towards SuoWei again, noticing the somewhat pained expression as he clutched his stomach.

“Da Bao-” Chi Cheng reached out to Wu SuoWei gently.

“Is it because of him? Is he keeping you here?” Guo ChengYu began to crawl closer. Chi Cheng noticed the movement and put himself between the two.

“Don’t even think about it, asshole.” Chi Cheng warned.

“You can’t stay on land forever Chi Cheng, you know that.”

“But I don’t want to stay in a place like that either. At least up here I’m not treated like some object. Doing whatever I’m told, staying quiet, being polite. I hate it.” His voice was getting louder, SuoWei noticed. He tried to say something, to keep the other’s tone down to not cause suspicion to the homes around. He tried to speak but heard another voice behind him.

“Why are you shouting so late at night? Don’t you know there are people around here?” SuoWei turned, the voice familiar. It was Xiao Shuai.

Chapter Text

Xiao Shuai sighed as he looked over the last few documents of the day. It was already dark out, though this was the norm lately. It seemed after the storm a few days ago, a lot of people got sick from being caught in the rain. Patients came in with similar symptoms. Runny noses, fevers, sore throats so on and so forth. He needed to order more cold medicine for the clinic at this rate. He took out his pen from his coat and wrote down a note for him to order more tomorrow.

The dim light from his desk lamp illuminated his tired face. The bags under his eyes grew heavy. His glasses slid down his nose, and Xiao Shuai pushed them up with his knuckle. He groans, trying to relieve some of the annoyance as he finishes his reports. He twirls his pen, smiling softly at the soft, plush bear head at the top.

The last few lines were typed out and Xiao Shuai let out a heavy sigh as he leaned back in his desk chair. His hand moves the mouse, saving the files and shutting his computer off.

“Finally done.” He raised his arms above his head, stretching. He yawned and rubbed at his tired eyes. He would get any other paperwork done tomorrow. He needed to sleep, and it was already so late. Xiao Shuai stood up from his chair, he placed his hands on his lower pack and tilted his body back. He stretched for a moment, hearing a soft crack and feeling relief before standing up straight again.

Xiao Shuai pushed his chair in and removed his doctor's coat. He hung it up on a rack next to his desk. He took out his phone and looked at the time.

“How is it already one a.m.?” He yawned again and put his phone in his back pocket. He took his keys from the desk and headed for the door. The key turned easily in the lock as Xiao Shuai closed the door. As he quietly walked down the stone pathway, he could hear voices.

He walked closer, despite his better judgment. He peaked around a corner, looking out at the docks. Three people sat on the ground, voices growing louder. Xiao Shuai noticed something off about the two of them. He squinted his eyes, trying to focus better. He let out a groan as he realized the two large tails connected at the hips. Mermaids – and he can only assume the third figure was his best friend.

Xiao Shuai walked over, annoyance growing as the two mermen started shouting at each other.

“Why are you shouting so late at night? Don’t you know there are people around here?” Xiao Shuai spoke clearly, his voice level.

SuoWei turned to look up at his best friend. His gaze softened as he looked up at Xiao Shuai. He glanced at the two mermen, and frowned.

“Shifu, what are you doing here?” SuoWei stood up clumsily. He dusted his hands and butt off and inched closer to Xiao Shuai, away from the mermen.

He glanced at SuoWei before his eyes drifted to the new merman.

“Is this the one you told me about?” Xiao Shuai whispered to his friend. He saw his friend nod frantically. SuoWei clutched onto his friend’s bicep, squeezing.

“Who’s this?” The other merman had a joyful tone, a smirk on his face.

“Why do you need to know?” Xiao Shuai retorted. He only received a chuckle from the merman.

“Can’t I ask a cute guy like you a simple question?” The merman said back. He flashed his tail, showing off the rays of his tail uselessly.

“Is now the time to flirt, Guo ChengYu?” Chi Cheng interrupted. They both turned their attention to Chi Cheng.

”What? I can’t greet this new human?” His eyes raked over Xiao Shuai, smile evident.

Chi Cheng glanced at Xiao Shuai, a plan coming to mind.

”Will telling you his name make you leave me alone?” Chi Cheng looked back at Guo ChengYu. He could hear Xiao Shuai scoff behind him.

”Maybe.” He held his chin in his hand, mocking a thoughtful expression.

”Chi Cheng.” Xiao Shuai gave a warning tone, not wanting to be involved in this.

”I won’t hurt you~ I just want to know your name.” Guo ChengYu inched closer.

”Ah you stay away from him.” SuoWei shouted. Xiao Shuai smacked his friend's arm.

”Da Wei be quiet. You’ll wake people up.”

”Guo ChengYu shut up.” Chi Cheng sighed. He looked up at SuoWei, noticing how he held onto Xiao Shuai. “His name is Jiang Xiao Shuai. He’s the one who helped me when I got hurt.” Xiao Shuai shot the merman a glare.

“Why would you tell him my name?” Chi Cheng glanced back.

”What’s the harm? Not like he can do anything.” Guo ChengYu chuckled. He nodded his head, but his eyes contradicted him.

”He still doesn’t need to know my name.” Xiao Shuai would have hit Chi Cheng on the head if he wasn’t so far away.

”You’re the doctor who helped Chi Cheng? I must thank you. His father would have killed me if he died.” Guo ChengYu interrupted their argument. He stared at Xiao Shuai with a gleam in his eyes. He was plotting something and it made Xiao Shuai roll his eyes.

”All I did was stitch his wound. Wu SuoWei is the one taking care of him.” He pointed to his friend who still held onto his arm.

”Don’t bring me into this.” SuoWei silently shouted. Xiao Shuai turned to face his friend.

”What? You’re the one who’s keeping him at your home. You’re doing more than I did.” He whispered back. Chi Cheng looked between the two humans, then back to Guo ChengYu.

”He’s right. Da Bao has been taking care of me since I’ve been on land. He’s the one who called the doctor to ask for help.” Chi Cheng agreed, looking back as the two friends stopped talking to look at him.

Guo ChengYu’s face softened at SuoWei at the information. He didn’t hate the human, but was still skeptical.

”Then a thank you is in order. Thank you for taking care of him. But he needs to come back eventually.” Chi Cheng rolled his eyes.

“Are you not listening to me? I told you I’m not going back. At least not anytime soon.” ChengYu tore his attention away from Xiao Shuai to look at the other merman.

”Chi Cheng, come on. It’s not that bad, at least I’m there to keep you company.” Xiao Shuai noted how SuoWei shifted, leaning forward to pay more attention.

”There is only so much you can do to keep me company in that place. Sorry you came for nothing, but I’m not going back.” He looked up at Xiao Shuai and smirked. “Doctor’s orders after all.”

”What? I never-!” Xiao Shuai raised his voice before remembering where they were. “I never said you couldn’t go back.” His voice quieter now.

”You said I couldn’t get it wet. It might get worse if it stays submerged right?” Chi Cheng did little to hide his smirk from the man.

”I,” He looked between the two mermen. A sigh left his mouth as he closed his eyes. “Yes. I did say that.” He took another glance at ChengYu, not seeing any change in his demeanor.

”See, I can’t go back even if I wanted to.” ChengYu had a contemplative look before he spoke again.

“Then I’ll just have to come back everyday to check on you.” Chi Cheng let out an annoyed groan. ChengYu looked back up to Xiao Shuai. “You’ll keep me updated, right?”

”Me? I’m not the one taking care of him. I already told you that.”

”Then get updates from him and relay it to me.” ChengYu nodded towards SuoWei.

”How am I supposed to tell you? I’m not going to wait here everyday just for you.” Xiao Shuai pointed at the merman.

”I’ll wait then. When you come out I’ll call you over and you can tell me.” He smiled gently, trying to convince him.

”Shuai, can’t you just agree? It won’t be hard to just tell him right?” Xiao Shuai shot his friend a glare. SuoWei looked away awkwardly, and let go of his friend's arm.

”If you don’t agree to meet me at night, I’ll just come during the day and wait for you on the docks.” Xiao Shuai looked back again.

“If you do that, people will see you.” Xiao Shuai sounded more annoyed than worried.

”If you don’t care about me then why does that matter?” Xiao Shuai narrowed his eyes at the man, like the question was stupid as soon as it came out.

“They might try to kill you if they see you. I can’t let someone get killed like that.” ChengYu smiled, like he somehow won something.

“Then you’ll just have to agree to meet at night then. Or else I will show up during the day.” Xiao Shuai huffed. He pinched the bridge of his nose and groaned.

”Fine. Fine you asshole. I will meet you at night. I’ll tell you how he’s doing and then you leave. Got it?” 

“Sounds good to me doctor~ I’ll see you tomorrow.” ChengYu seemingly purred at him. Xiao Shuai cringed at the tone.

”Remember to tell him I’m not coming back.” Chi Cheng interrupted. ChengYu huffed at him.

”Don’t get upset when he tries to come get you himself.” ChengYu pointed a finger at Chi Cheng, who just scoffed in return.

“Oh please. Like he’d ever do something like that on his own.” Chi Cheng moved back, towards SuoWei.

“I’m just saying.” ChengYu shot another glance at Xiao Shuai. He gave a wink before he dove back into the water below.

“Is he usually that insufferable?” Xiao Shuai asked. Chi Cheng huffed out a laugh.

“I think he likes you.” Xiao Shuai rolled his eyes.

“Good for him I guess.” Xiao Shuai turned towards his friend. “Why did you have to bring me into this Da Wei?”

“I’m sorry Shuai, I panicked. Please don’t hate me.” SuoWei grabbed his friend’s arm again, a pout on his face. He could hear Chi Cheng scoff at the two of them.

“I don’t hate you Da Wei. I just wish you would have left me out of this. Now I have to meet this asshole every night.” He let his head hang in defeat.

“I’ll make sure to give you the most detailed reports. I’ll take such good care of Chi Cheng. Just you wait.” He turned his head as Chi Cheng chuckled.

“I can’t wait.” Chi Cheng smirked as SuoWei rolled his eyes.

“I’ll let you take him back home. I need to go back and sleep. I’m dead tired.” He let out a yawn, covering his mouth with his hand.

“Yes yes, of course. Sorry we kept you up so late. Get a good sleep tonight.” SuoWei pulled him into a hug, and Xiao Shuai happily returned it. A loud thud sounded, and SuoWei flinched. Chi Cheng had slapped his large tail against the dock, annoyance on his face.

“Can we go then? I miss my tub.” He chuckled as SuoWei groaned. Despite his annoyance, SuoWei walked over to Chi Cheng and helped him into the small tub on top of a cart.

“Is that the breeding tub?” Xiao Shuai pointed at the tub and SuoWei flinched.

“Possibly.” SuoWei helped Chi Cheng tuck his tail into the tub.

“You use this to breed your fish?” Chi Cheng spoke.

“Well, it’s easier to collect the eggs in here when it’s breeding season.” He mumbled to himself. Chi Cheng lifted SuoWei’s chin with a clawed finger.

“Are you going to collect anything from me then?” Xiao Shuai noted how SuoWei froze up for a second. Then he slapped Chi Cheng’s hand away and stood up straight.

“I told you to stop that.” He pointed at Chi Cheng, accusingly.

“Would you get him home already? You know there are some fishermen who come out here early.” Xiao Shuai interrupted their spat, smacking SuoWei’s back lightly.

“Right. Get home safe.” SuoWei waved as he pushed the small cart along the cobbled path. Xiao Shuai waved back, laughing at how SuoWei kept bickering with the merman.

Xiao Shuai sighed and turned towards the direction of his apartment. He didn’t live far, but it was dark out, and the street lights didn’t give off much visibility. He clumsily walked up the stairs to his apartment and punched the code into his door. He took his shoes off at the door and walked back to his bathroom.

He looked in the mirror as he flicked the light on. Xiao Shuai pulled his cheeks down, stretching out his eye bags. He groaned at his tired appearance. He set his hands on the counter, hanging his head. Xiao Shuai turned on his heel, pulling the shower curtain back to turn on the water. He shucked his clothes off as the water heated up.

Xiao Shuai went through his normal bedtime routine. Shower, put on comfy sleep clothes, and scroll on his phone until he falls asleep. Though it was difficult to focus on anything but the mermaid from earlier. He was insufferably annoying, but he didn’t seem malicious. If he was anything like Chi Cheng, he was just an asshole. His eyelids grew heavy, and he could feel himself drifting off. The face of Guo ChengYu the last thing his mind showed him.

---------

Xiao Shuai woke up to his alarm, the sound making his head hurt. He reached over and turned the sound off. He sat up and sighed, holding his head in his hands. He went through his morning routine, making sure to eat something before he left. Xiao Shuai always woke up too early for his own liking, but he felt it was worth it to help people.

His keys jingled as he pulled them out of his pocket. He turned the door handle to the clinic and pushed the door open. The flights flicked on and Xiao Shuai sat at his desk. He liked to get some things done before he officially opened. The computer at his desk switched on, and he logged in.

Twenty minutes went by before Xiao Shuai walked up to the door and officially opened. It was always slow in the morning, and his attending nurses showed up later in the day due to this. It was never a problem, he could handle the very few people. There were footsteps coming up to the door and Xiao Shuai looked up.

”Hey Shuai!” Wu SuoWei’s cheerful voice filled the otherwise quiet clinic.

“Da Wei! What are you doing here so early?” He glanced at the clock. It blinked at him — 08:17. It was earlier than usual for SuoWei to be up and out of bed.

”Why are you out so early? I usually don’t see you at the docks till eight-thirty.” Xiao Shuai shifted his gaze back to his computer. He clicked through the stock list of supplies, adding some to the list.

”It’s not that early for me. I just wanted to make sure I could talk with you before the day. Update you on Chi Cheng for Guo ChengYu.” SuoWei took a seat in the chair on the opposite side of Xiao Shuai’s desk. 

Xiao Shuai cringed, forgetting he had to talk to that damn mermaid after work. He pinched the bridge of his nose, already getting a headache.

“I still wish you wouldn’t have dragged me into this Da Wei. I already don’t get enough sleep as is. Now I have to stay out and wait for that asshole.” Xiao Shuai ruffled his hair, resting his hands at the back of his head.

“I’m really sorry Shuai. I didn’t mean to involve you. If anything,” SuoWei pointed at Xiao Shuai, “It’s Chi Cheng’s fault for telling him your name. Yeah, be mad at him.” He nodded at his own statement and it made Xiao Shuai laugh.

“I’m not mad Da Wei, just annoyed.” He sighed, typing some more on his computer. “How is Chi Cheng then? Anything I need to know about?” Xiao Shuai turned his attention to SuoWei as he straightened up in the chair.

“Nothing major. I changed his bandage yesterday. And then again before I left today. It’s not bleeding very bad, but it’s a little red.” Xiao Shuai nodded along. He typed it out, so he didn’t have to remember it himself for later.

“Anything else? Does he keep flirting with you?” He noticed how SuoWei rolled his eyes.

“Yes. I told him I’m not interested, but he keeps trying.” SuoWei crossed his arms over his body, shaking his head.

“If it wasn’t for his arrogant attitude, he’d almost be handsome.” Xiao Shuai laughed at how his friend scoffed.

“Says you. I’m not into men.” SuoWei pointed at himself.

“I know you’re not. That’s why I said it after all.” He chuckled again as SuoWei huffed in annoyance.

“Yeah yeah.” He looked around dramatically, as if he had never seen the inside of the clinic. “What about the other mermaid? Guo ChengYu? Do you think he’s handsome?” SuoWei looked back at his friend, who sported an annoyed face.

“As if. That flirtatious asshole is the kind of guy who only likes one thing in people.” SuoWei tilted his head, as if not understanding. Xiao Shuai sighed before elaborating. “Sex, SuoWei.” His friend’s eyes went wide for a second.

“Oh, I see. He can’t be like a normal guy though, right? He’s not really human after all.” Xiao Shuai shook his head.

“There’s no reason for you to defend him, Da Wei. He threatened you and gave you rope burns, might I remind you.” He pointed to his friend’s hands. SuoWei looked down at his hands. He hid them between his legs.

“It barely even hurts anymore. He was just trying to find Chi Cheng, he was worried.”

“And I’m worried about you. I don’t think you should fish for a few days to give your hands time to heal properly.” His friend groaned at the advice.

“But I can’t stay at home all day with Chi Cheng. He learned how to use the cart by himself and now he won’t leave me alone.” Xiao Shuai just chuckled.

“You should have put it away where he couldn’t reach it.” He pointed at his friend with his bear pen.

“You’re taking his side.” SuoWei pointed an accusatory finger at his friend. Xiao Shuai put his hands up in mock defense.

“I’m just saying.” He laughed again. The sun was starting to stream in through the large windows. It lit up the clinic more as the sun rose higher in the sky. The two sat and talked for a while, until people started to file in. More fishermen gathered at the docks and the sounds of boat horns rang out.

“I should get going then.” SuoWei stood up and stretched, arms above his head.

“No fishing Wu SuoWei.” He shot his friend a glare from behind his computer screen.

“Ugh, fine. But if Chi Cheng tries anything funny on me I’m blaming you.” He pointed again and Xiao Shuai just laughed.

“If that’s what will make you feel better. Get back safe.” He waved off his friend, amused at his gloomy face.

The day went by as it usually did. People came in with minor injuries — cuts, scrapes, mysterious bruises. It was slower today than usual, Xiao Shuai was internally thankful for that. There were even a few aunties who would ask random questions while they waited. He was always happy to help, even if it wasn’t medical related.

It felt like the day went by too fast. The lower the sun went down, the more annoyed Xiao Shuai seemed to get. He put on a friendly face to the few people still left in the clinic — but his patience was waning. The thought of having to meet with Guo ChengYu was pissing him off already.

”Doctor Jiang, I’m heading out for the day. Do you need anything else?” Xiao Shuai turned his attention to his nurse.

“Oh, no you’re okay. Thank you for your hard work today.” He waved to her as she walked out of the front door. She waved back and gave a smile.

Xiao Shuai found himself glancing at the setting sun outside as the last few hours went by. The looming dread of having to stay up to wait weighing on him. When it came time to finally close the clinic, he kept stalling. Finding things to bus himself with – restocking medicines, cleaning shelves, making the beds. Anything to prolong the annoyance he was bound to have.

He glanced at the cloak on his desk — 23:00 blinked back at him. It was late, and he was done with most work for the day. The rest was busy work, tasks to prolong the inevitable headache with meeting Guo ChengYu. As he stretched out the minutes, the growing annoyance became more evident. He sighed, realizing this isn’t helping anything.

”Let’s just get this over with.” He mumbled to himself. He took off his doctor’s coat, placing it back in the hanger. He’ll have to remember to wash all of his scrubs and coats later. Xiao Shuai grabbed the small paper he printed earlier, notes from SuoWei on it. He read over the notes as he walked to the door. The paper was folded, and slipped into his pocket.

The walk to the docks was very short. The figure sitting down made his eyes roll. He could hear faints splashing in the water. Assumedly the merman’s tail in the water below. As he approached, he noticed Guo ChengYu turn to him.

”Doctor~ I’m surprised you actually showed up.” His smirk wide. Xiao Shuai could see his face more clearly as he came closer. The gentle street lights gave enough visibility to the immediate area surrounding them.

”I’m only here because I promised Wu SuoWei. Speaking of, he says Chi Cheng is fine. He’s changing his bandages often to make sure it stays clean. And he’s also feeding him. Are we done now?” Xiao Shuai pivoted his foot, ready to leave.

”Wait wait, come sit and chat for a while. What’s the rush?” Xiao Shuai could tell he was putting on a gentle voice. Trying to coax him over, but he wasn’t having any of it.

”I’m not meeting you here for anything other than the report you demanded from Da Wei.” He watched as Guo ChengYu continued to smirk up at him. His tail flicked around the water more.

”Well then why did you agree to meet me? You could have sent your friend instead.” He leaned back onto his arms, closer to Xiao Shuai.

”Because I’m worried you might hurt him again. His hands have rope burns because of you.” Xiao Shuai pointed at him, shaking his head gently.

”I didn’t mean to hurt him. I pulled his rope, and he just so happened to be holding it.” Guo ChengYu gave a fake pout.

”That doesn’t make you any less of an asshole. I’m leaving, goodbye.” He turned on his heel, walking away.

”Be back tomorrow. I’ll be waiting!” Guo ChengYu shouted back. Xiao Shuai shook his head as he walked away.

The next day was no better, a similar report from SuoWei. Chi Cheng seemed to be enjoying the time he was spending with his best friend. To SuoWei’s annoyance, he would add. His hands were starting to scab over thankfully, but it would still take a while for it to fully heal.

He made sure to remind his friend not to fish until his hands fully scabbed over. To his friend’s dismay, protesting the entire conversation. He was happy though, when SuoWei reluctantly complied.

The sunset came too soon, the day going by too fast again. Xiao Shuai decided not to dawdle today. As soon as it hit dark, he was locking up the clinic and walking up to the docks. The large splash against the water sounded as the figure hauled itself up onto the wooden dock. Xiao Shuai sighed as the merman smiled at him.

”And you’re back again. Missed me that much?” Xiao Shuai rolled his eyes, stopping on the stone pathing before the wood.

”You wish. Chi Cheng is still fine. Nothing new to report to you.” He turned around and started walking away.

”So cold Xiao Shuai~ Not even a small chat? Entertain me.” His voice carried the annoying smirk on his face.

”Not a chance.” He waved to the merman behind him, continuing to walk away.

”Same time tomorrow then.” That annoying sultry voice again. Xiao Shuai just rolled his eyes again. How long was this going to go on for, he wondered.

---------

It had been two weeks. Two weeks of meeting every night with that flirtatious asshole Guo ChengYu. It was exhausting enough having patients constantly streaming into the clinic — now he had to deal with more headaches even after work. The patients he at least enjoyed, knowing he was helping people made him feel better. But with Guo ChengYu, it was more of a chore than anything useful.

It was raining today, not as heavily as it was when this whole debacle first happened, but enough to slow the clinic’s patients. Less fishermen were out on the waters, afraid it might get worse. The sky was still cloudy. You’d barely be able to tell anymore as the sun set on the town, and consumed it in darkness. The street lights outside lit up, creating a sheen off the wet bricks of the path.

Xiao Shuai sighed, logging off of his computer. He turned the desk lamp off and walked to the door. He locked it, like he always does. He walks over to the docks, like he has been doing lately. There on the edge, the same figure as always, waiting for him. Guo ChengYu turned, waving. The smile on his face just as wide and carefree as it has been.

“Xiao Shuai! Come and sit for a little.” Xiao Shuai felt something bubble up. It wasn’t anger, but something more than annoyance. The constant asking to chat, the day to day reports – it was driving him absolutely insane. He’s had enough, he decided. He stomped over to the merman, water splashing under his shoes.

“Would you stop asking me that every single day? It’s starting to seriously get on my ne-” As he walked forward, his foot gave way. He slipped, foot sliding back and face falling forward. He could see as the water off the edge of the dock got closer. Was he going to fall in? He closed his eyes, expecting to hit the water in a few seconds.

“Woah woah! Be careful.” It never came. Guo ChengYu’s hands were reaching up quickly, catching Xiao Shuai before he could fall off the wooden dock.

Xiao Shuai was shaking as he looked down into the water. The dark sea stared back at him as it rolled back and forth. He was holding onto ChengYu very tightly. His nails dug into the flesh of the merman’s arm. He hadn’t realized how heavily he was breathing until Guo ChengYu reached up to touch his back gently.

“Hey. Are you alright?” He helped Xiao Shuai kneel, holding onto him. He tried to calm his breathing, closing his eyes as he took deep breaths. ChengYu rubbed small circles on Xiao Shuai’s back, the gentle motions unexpectedly helping. His body continued to shake, but he could feel it lessening, slowly.

“I-I’m okay.” Xiao Shuai took another deep breath. “I’m okay.” His hands loosened their grip for a moment before gripping tightly again. He finally turned to face ChengYu, and was surprised at the man. His face contorted in worry – eyebrows furrowing together. His wet hair covered his eyes, but Xiao Shuai could see that his eyes looked at him with concern. He looked down, noticing the movement on ChengYu’s chest. His gills flared up high, the red filament showing clearly before they fell again.

“Are you okay?” ChengYu’s voice was gentle. He spoke softly, as if Xiao Shuai was someone who needed gentle words to be talked to. He looked at the merman, closer than he’s ever been. Xiao Shuai took in his features, finding it distracting to rake his eyes over the merman’s face.

“I’m okay, sorry.” He looked back to the water off the dock and backed away from the edge. ChengYu followed him, shuffling back off the edge. He kept his hands on Xiao Shuai, simply holding him as they sat on the dock.

“What happened? You’re shaking.” Guo ChengYu pointed out, still letting Xiao Shuai grip his arm.

“I thought I was going to fall in the water.” He didn’t know why, but his body unconsciously shuffled closer to Guo ChengYu.

“Are you afraid of deep water?” ChengYu asked genuinely. There wasn’t anything teasing or mocking about his tone.

“I can’t swim very well. I never really learned.” A low rumble from ChengYu’s chest as he chuckled.

“Yet you live and work so close to the sea?” Xiao Shuai sat up properly, more eye level.

“I don’t ever get this close to the edge of the docks. I had to get on Da Wei’s boat to help Chi Cheng, but other than that, I almost never got on boats.” He was shaking less, the conversation taking his mind away from the sea.

“It’s okay. Plenty of humans can’t swim. I’ve seen so many almost drown out on beaches.” Despite the chuckle from Guo ChengYu, it didn’t help Xiao Shuai’s mind.

“Don’t joke about that.” He hit the merman’s chest. ChengYu groaned at the force.

“Sorry, sorry.” He rubbed Xiao Shuai’s back again, smiling as the man took another deep breath.

“Thank you.” Xiao Shuai spoke softly. 

“Thank you?” ChengYu questioned. He looked at Xiao Shuai with a smile on his face.

“For not letting me fall. I admit since I can’t swim well I’m a little afraid of the water. Usually only when it’s this deep though.” He glanced back to the water, then back to the merman.

“I would never let you fall.” Xiao Shuai noted how genuine he sounded.

“This doesn’t mean I like you.” He finally let go of ChengYu, shakily standing up.

“Of course not. I didn’t say that.” His sly smirk only made Xiao Shuai groan. He smiled to himself, not that he would give ChengYu the satisfaction of knowing.

“I should go home. I have to work tomorrow as well.” ChengYu let him walk a few steps away before speaking up.

“I can teach you.” Xiao Shuai looked over his shoulder at the merman.

“Huh?” He turned fully around. ChengYu motioned for him to come back. Xiao Shuai sighed before complying.

“I can teach you!” He repeated.

“Teach me what?” Xiao Shuai looked down at ChengYu as the merman smiled.

“I’ll teach you to swim.” Xiao Shuai gave a confused expression.

“I don’t need you to teach me how to swim.” ChengYu continued to smile at him.

“It would make you less afraid of the deep water. I’m an excellent swimmer.” He motioned to his tail as he raised it off the dock.

“Well obviously. But I don’t need to learn. I’m fine staying on land my whole life.” Xiao Shuai put his hands on his hips, eyebrows raising.

“There’s no harm in learning a new skill is there? Come on. When is the next day you don’t work? I can show you how to swim.” ChengYu attempted to persuade.

Xiao Shuai felt a tightness in his chest at the thought. He hadn’t tried swimming since he was a kid. It was terrifying to think of what might go wrong. Suddenly, there was a weight in his hand. He looked down to see ChengYu’s hand in his own.

“I’m not going to force you.” Xiao Shuai relaxed, squeezing ChengYu’s hand slightly. He thought for a bit longer, sighing out as he found his answer.

“Okay. I’ll agree to let you teach me. But you better not try anything.” He took his hand back, watching as ChengYu kept his hand in the air. The smile on the merman’s face grew wide, clearly happy with the decision.

“You won’t regret this. I’ll be on my best behaviour.” He gave a wink up at Xiao Shuai.

“I’m free in four days. There’s a beach nearby that people don’t really know about.” ChengYu nodded along, reaching up to hold Xiao Shuai’s hand again. He didn’t try to pull away, finding it useless.

“I believe I know where it is. I’ll meet you there in four days.” He smiled again, and Xiao Shuai felt himself smiling back.

“I should go back now.” Xiao Shuai said, gently letting go of ChengYu’s hand.

“Yes, get back safely. Oh and don’t worry about meeting me. I’ll give you some space. I’ll see you again in four days.” He winked before he shuffled to the end of the dock again. Xiao Shuai watched cautiously as ChengYu dropped into the water below. He watched as the merman swam out, waving to him before he dove under the water. Xiao Shuai waved back weakly, knowing the man had already left.

He turned on his heel, walking in the direction of his home. What did he get himself into?

Chapter Text

The longer Chi Cheng stayed with Wu SuoWei, the more interested he seemed to be with the human. Even through all his flirting and annoyance, SuoWei still seemed to care. Through the time they’ve spent together, he could tell SuoWei was warming up to him as well.

It had already been a few weeks since Chi Cheng had been staying at Wu SuoWei’s to heal. His side hurt less than it used to – he had SuoWei’s attentiveness to changing his bandage for that. Though SuoWei didn’t want to admit it, he fussed over Chi Cheng a lot. Making sure his bandages stayed clean, letting him try more human foods, giving him more free roam around his home. In Chi Cheng’s eyes it was absolutely freeing.

There were no rules to follow, aside from the insistence of not flirting with the human. SuoWei seemed to fight back against it less and less these last few days, he noticed. Chi Cheng sat in his usual tub, resting his head against his arm. His eyes closed as he relaxed into the water. SuoWei allowed him to have more water in the tub. It had almost been enough time for his stitches to be taken out – that’s what his doctor friend had said.

The gently humming of the water filter sounded behind him. The sound became more calming the longer he stayed, the sound a gentle constant. He didn’t open his eyes even as he heard footsteps come into the room.

“Chi Cheng. What do you want me to get tonight to eat?” SuoWei walked into the room, stopping at the tub. Chi Cheng didn’t open his eyes, simply flicking his tail.

“Whatever is fine. I’ve liked most of the things you’ve gotten me.” SuoWei sighed. He leaned against the tub, and Chi Cheng finally opened his eyes. He stared at SuoWei’s back, raking over his outfit choice. While he usually wore baggy clothes, the shirt he had today was much looser than any other he’s seen. Certainly the most skin he’s seen the human show openly.

Chi Cheng leaned forward, placing his hand in the open side of SuoWei’s shirt. His hand slipped to the man’s front, stroking his stomach. SuoWei gasped at the cold touch and stood up quickly. Chi Cheng’s hand stayed in place in the air.

“What are you doing? Don’t just touch me out of nowhere.” SuoWei rubbed the area, wiping off the slight water left in its traces.

“You’re showing so much skin today. Trying to seduce me?” Chi Cheng’s eyes raked over the exposed skin, practically stripping the man with his mind.

SuoWei felt like prey under Chi Cheng’s gaze. Yet there was something in him that didn’t want to move – wanted to stay and be looked at. It felt as if Chi Cheng knew it too, knew how badly the man wanted to be seen. He was snapped out of his thoughts.

“It’s hot today.” He spread his arms out, gesturing to his outfit in its entirety. He wore a dark brown pair of kapris, stopping at just his mid calf. The aforementioned shirt showed most of his sides. No sleeves left a lot of his upper body exposed under the merman’s gaze.

”Hot enough to expose so much of yourself?” Chi Cheng smirked, still openly staring.

”I’m not exposing anything. You just can’t keep your eyes to yourself.” He pointed at Chi Cheng accusingly.

”How can I when you look like this?” He looked at SuoWei from head to toe, making sure the man saw his eye movements clearly.

SuoWei squirmed for a moment, shifting on his feet.

“Whatever asshole, I’m ordering out tonight. You’ll eat what I get.” He turned, walking out of the room.

”Whatever you say Da Bao.” He could still feel Chi Cheng’s gaze on him as he exited the room. Chi Cheng smirked at the annoyed groan SuoWei let out as he rounded the corner, out of view.

Wu SuoWei hated to admit that he enjoyed the merman’s eyes over him. It made his stomach turn in ways he couldn’t understand. He pulled out his phone, opening a delivery app to choose something to order. He scrolled through the various restaurants, trying to decide.

He looked at a familiar place, a hotpot restaurant he loves going to. SuoWei tried to remember the last time he went there, it had been months. He smirked to himself, thinking of ways to mess with Chi Cheng.

He tapped on the place, ordering two bowls with various sides and garnishes. A variety of vegetables, chili, pork, and various spicy dressings to put in. SuoWei entered the order and placed it, now just to wait.

SuoWei walked back to the room where Chi Cheng sat. He laid back against the tub’s rim with his eyes closed. SuoWei stared as he stood in the doorframe. He would admit, Chi Cheng looked peaceful when he wasn’t constantly flirting and messing with him. He looked almost calm even. The gentle facial expression as he laid there, gently swaying his tail.

These last few weeks SuoWei spent with the merman made him confused. He’s never like men, barely ever batted an eye at one. But there was something about Chi Cheng that made his stomach flip. There were times when SuoWei would gladly throw the man back into the sea and wish to never see him again. Other times however, he wished Chi Cheng wouldn’t leave. He enjoyed the company, he’s gotten used to it.

He wondered what Chi Cheng would be like if he was human. Maybe the same as he is now? Would they have ever met if he was human? SuoWei picked at his face as he leaned against the door frame. 

A buzz from his phone startled him, and he fumbled with his phone.

[Your food has been delivered. Thank you for shopping with us :)] The text read. He sighed, looking back up to Chi Cheng. He was looking back now, once again staring at SuoWei and smiling. SuoWei rolled his eyes and made his way out to the small courtyard. He opened the metal doors and picked up the bag off the ground.

He closed the doors and walked back into the house. He set the bag down on the table and took out the containers. Each side was packaged separately, the broth and noodles together. Two orders of noodles and various containers of sauce and toppings laid out on the table.

SuoWei got two large bowls and plated the noodles and broth. He put equal amounts of toppings in each bowl, but put much spicier additions into Chi Cheng’s. He smiled to himself, already thinking of the merman not being able to handle the spice. SuoWei took the bowls and placed them on the serving tray he’d been using for the past few weeks. A cup of ice accompanied the bowls, SuoWei bringing it just in case.

He had been eating with Chi Cheng during every meal — something the merman constantly teased him about. SuoWei took the tray and walked into the room. Chi Cheng still sat in the tub, his tail swaying back and forth as it hung out of the tub.

”Alright, food is here.” He walked over, taking his usual seat on the small plastic stool. His muscle memory kicked in and he was pulling over the small wooden table, setting the tray down.

”What did you get today?” He gave a sniff as he leaned over the tub.

”Hotpot. It’s noodles and toppings. I got some vegetables and meat with both because I didn’t know what you’d like.” SuoWei pushed the bowl towards Chi Cheng on the table, setting a pair of chopsticks over the rim of the bowl. SuoWei picked up his own pair, raising his bowl up to his face.

He glanced over the bowl, watching as Chi Cheng stared at him. He gently blew air on the bowl, cooling it down a little. The steam shifted as he blew on it. He took a cautious sip, and enjoyed the flavour as it hit his tongue.

“Mmm, it’s good. Try some. Mix it first.” SuoWei set his bowl down gently, and motioned for Chi Cheng to join him. Chi Cheng continued to stare at the man as he picked up his chopsticks, now familiar with the feel of it in his hand. He did as told, mixing the vegetables and meat with the noodles and broth. Chi Cheng mimicked SuoWei, raising the bowl and taking a small sip.

The broth was tasty, and rich in flavour. He took some noodles and vegetables, taking it in one large bite. He took the bowl from his mouth and coughed roughly for a moment. 

Chi Cheng wasn’t expecting the flavour of it. He’s never had something like this. It burned his tongue, despite it not being the temperature. SuoWei smiled into the mouthful of noodles he brought up to his mouth. He figured Chi Cheng wouldn’t like it, serves him right, he won’t need anything tonight. Despite the unnerving heat, Chi Cheng smiled.

More specifically, he smiled at SuoWei.

“What’s wrong? Don’t like it?” SuoWei smirked again. He motioned with his head, looking at the bowl Chi Cheng still held.

“It’s good.” SuoWei’s smile faded, turning into amazed disbelief as Chi Cheng continued to eat the food. The merman coughed again on a big bite. SuoWei tsk’d at him and took the bowl, setting it down on the table. He placed his hand in the cup of ice and took a cube. SuoWei quickly shoved the cold cube into Chi Cheng’s mouth.

Chi Cheng reeled back, closing his eyes at the hand over his mouth. He raised his arm and pushed SuoWei away. He stared dumfoundedly at the man, keeping his arm out in front of him. SuoWei chuckled softly.

“Eating...Eating ice eases the spiciness.” He looked down at his own bowl again. Chi Cheng closed his mouth, chewing on the ice cube. SuoWei was right, it did help with the burn of his tongue.

SuoWei lifted the bottom of his shirt, enough to scratch at his stomach nervously. Chi Cheng’s eyes seemed to automatically snap to the movement. The exposed skin caught his eye mostly. SuoWei was skinny, lean and toned. His stomach had some definition that made Chi Cheng stare. The gentle dip of his belly button and the dark trail of hair that led further down.

As Chi Cheng continued to stare, his imagination wandered further and further. The thought of pushing his hands down under the fabric of SuoWei’s pants, finding out exactly where the hair leads. Where the dips in his hips pointed at. His mind raced so fast he hadn’t even realized SuoWei took his hand away.

Chi Cheng looked up at SuoWei who seemed to avert his gaze. He needed to snap out of it, not think about that right now. He decided instead to talk more about the food.

“What did you put in this? Why is it so hot?” Chi Cheng pointed at his bowl. SuoWei glanced at it and scratched the back of his neck.

“I put some chili in it. It makes the flavour spicier. Like heat in your mouth without it actually burning your tongue.” SuoWei explained simply.

“It does feel different from when I burned my tongue the other day.” SuoWei thought about the moment. Chi Cheng was too impatient after SuoWei had taken a fish off of the grill. He took the skewer and bit into it, quickly pulling it away as his tongue stuck out of his mouth. He also remembered how Chi Cheng kept asking for rice wine to cool his tongue down. He eventually had to cut Chi Cheng off before the alcohol went to his head, worried what might happen if the merman got drunk.

”Not a lot of people like spicy foods. I know a lot of people who don’t like hotpot.” A solemn expression crossed SuoWei’s face for a moment. Chi Cheng noticed, but didn’t say anything. “People say it’s too cheap, or that I’m stingy. I like it because it’s convenient. And good of course.” SuoWei continued eating.

”I like it. I’ll eat it again if you get it.” Chi Cheng took his bowl again and began eating.

”Again? How long do you plan on staying?” SuoWei set his bowl down, and wiped his face.

”Long enough.” Chi Cheng took another bite.

”You can’t stay here forever you know.” He noted how Chi Cheng averted his gaze.

“Why not? I’ve told you how terrible it is where I’m from. I don’t want to go back to a life of royalty. You have no idea how-” He stopped talking, almost realizing what he said.

“What?” SuoWei looked at the merman, brows furrowed. “What did you say?”

“Nothing. I didn’t say anything.” Chi Cheng set the bowl down, turning away from SuoWei. He brought his hand up to his face, pinching the bridge of his nose.

I can’t fucking believe I let that slip. Chi Cheng thought to himself.

“Royalty? What do you mean royalty?” SuoWei pressed, wanting an answer. There was no response. He huffed out and reached to touch Chi Cheng’s shoulder. He was shrugged off harshly.

“Don’t. I said it was nothing, just drop it.” His tone was harsh. SuoWei placed his hand on Chi Cheng’s shoulder again, gentler.

“Chi Cheng.” SuoWei leaned in closer. Chi Cheng turned, sporting a grimace on his face. “It’s fine. I don’t care if you’re some royal asshole or not. You were an asshole before I knew anyways.” SuoWei smiled smugly.

“You’re just saying that.” Chi Cheng smiled as well. He slapped SuoWei’s hand away playfully.

“No, really. You’ll always be an insufferable jerk. Royal or not.” He patted Chi Cheng’s shoulder again, straightening himself back up. “You could have told me about it. I don’t really care.” He wasn’t lying, but there was something deep down that felt wrong to say it.

Maybe if he knew off the bat he would have treated Chi Cheng differently. More scared to hurt him. Scared that if something more serious happened to him, would he be killed for it?

“It’s not that I was worried about people caring. I just didn’t want to be treated like I always am. Like some fragile prince, needing to be taken care of twenty-four-seven. I can’t stand it.” He lifted his tail and smacked it against the tub.

“Why do you hate it so much? I can imagine princes have a lot to do right? A lot of people out to get you? I can imagine what people might do to kidnap you for blackmail.” SuoWei said. He looked at Chi Cheng as the merman rolled his eyes.

“While I can agree on the latter. I know how to protect myself. I know how to fight and defend.” He went silent, as if thinking of what to say. “Guo ChengYu and I grew up together. We trained as children to keep ourselves safe. We had a fight a while ago due to some events that happened.” Another annoyed flick of his tail.

“What kind of events? What happened?” Chi Cheng sat in silence.

“I’d rather not talk about it.” SuoWei picked at the scabs on his hand. “Stop picking. It’ll scar.” Chi Cheng grabbed SuoWei’s wrist, pulling it away from his other palm.

“It’s fine. It’s almost healed.” SuoWei pulled his wrist out of Chi Cheng’s hold.

“It’ll reopen if you keep picking.”

“Yeah yeah. Save it.” He stared at Chi Cheng for a moment before speaking.

“What’s it like?” Chi Cheng turned to him again, raising an eyebrow.

“Royalty?” SuoWei nodded. “You really want to know?” Chi Cheng raised an eyebrow. He nodded again.

”We don’t really talk much about things. It’s usually just you wanting to try new foods.” Chi Cheng chuckled.

”I like a lot of the foods you get me. It’s stuff I’ve never had before, it’s new.” He smiled to himself.

”You’ve told me a little about yourself. You mentioned you had a sister, but nothing else. I want to know more.”

”Will you tell me more about you then?” His voice carried a flirtatious hint. SuoWei rolled his eyes at the weak attempt.

”If that’s what will get you to tell me, then sure.” He moved his stool closer, resting his elbows on the rim of the tub.

”Fine, I’ll tell you Da Bao.” SuoWei tsk’d at the name but let him continue. “Anything in particular you want to know?” SuoWei looked up, thinking of things to ask.

”Are you a prince?” Chi Cheng nodded.

”Yes. My father is a king. He isn’t the only one. More of just a king of the area we live in.” Chi Cheng sat up more in the tub.

”Is Guo ChengYu a prince too?” He wondered since they seemed so close.

”No, he’s more like a distant friend, like I said.” SuoWei nodded along.

”What kind of things do princes do? Like, what kind of duties?” SuoWei let his hand slip down, splashing the water in the tub.

”Diplomatic things mostly. Talking to other mermaids, keeping up a good image for the royal line. I never really cared for it.” Chi Cheng moved his hand to touch SuoWei’s fingertips.

”Is it like that all the time?” SuoWei didn’t move his hand. He let Chi Cheng touch his fingers gently.

”Mostly, yes. It’s the same for my sister. Her family is away a lot, talking to other kingdoms. My father is well known.” A grimace adorned his face at the mention of his father.

”Do you have servants? Other mermaids to take care of you?” SuoWei flipped his head, resting the left side of his face on his arms instead.

”Yes, but I never need the help. My mother and father enjoy having servants. Mostly for smaller tasks they don’t find the need to do themselves. We have a good relationship with the servants, they’re all well taken care of.” Chi Cheng closed his eyes. The tips of his fingers interlaced with SuoWei’s for a moment.

“So do you live in a palace then?” SuoWei let Chi Cheng lace their finger tips.

“It’s more like a very big house. I doubt it’s as big as you think it is. We do have a very nice coral reef area nearby though.” He opened his eyes and looked at SuoWei. “I’ll take you there sometime.” He smiled gently.

“I doubt I’d be able to. I can’t really breathe underwater like you can.” SuoWei removed his hand from the water, and from Chi Cheng.

“It’s probably for the best. I’d hate for you to have to meet my family. They can barely stand to see me with another merman, let alone a human.” His tail flicked again.

“Other mermen?” That same tightness in his chest, but he ignored it. Chi Cheng looked at him for a moment before averting his gaze.

“Not many. After last year, they practically locked me at home. I could barely leave the area without getting hunted down by guards.” Chi Cheng let out an annoyed huff.

“Is that why you have a mate?” His voice carried more sadness than he would have liked. Chi Cheng was quick to correct him.

“Don’t-” His voice was loud, almost a shout. Chi Cheng calmed himself, talking in a gentler tone. “Don’t call her that. My father chose her. I never wanted her as a mate. I’m only agreeing to it to shut my father up.”

“What’s she like?” Why was he asking that? He didn’t want to know about the mermaid that was with Chi Cheng, he didn’t.

“A pain in my tail fin, that's what she’s like. Constantly sucking up to my parents. Acting like she can get whatever she wants from me. I have to be nice, I have to stay compliant.” He sighed in frustration.

“Do you want a mate eventually? What do you actually want in a mate?” Something in his tone made Chi Cheng quirk an eyebrow.

“Why? Would you like to fill the position?” He leaned toward SuoWei, barely a foot away from his face. He smiled as he noticed the gentle red on SuoWei’s ears.

“Fuck off. In your dreams.” He pushed Chi Cheng away and stood up.

“You have to tell me about your life now. You agreed.” Chi Cheng tried to grab SuoWei’s wrist, but was too slow.

“Ah! You can wait.” He was grabbed at again, by his shirt this time. Chi Cheng smirked as SuoWei stumbled forward. His hands reflexively grabbed the rim of the tub, bracing himself. He was far too close to Chi Cheng’s face than he would like.

Chi Cheng’s eyes casually wandered over SuoWei’s face, taking in every detail – every mole, every line, his big doe eyes, pretty lashes. He wanted to move up, press his lips against SuoWei’s, take the kiss he’s been thinking about too much for his own sanity. Instead, he was hit with a gentle aroma. He didn’t know what the smell was, but he liked it.

He moved closer, and SuoWei’s eyes went wide. Why did he want Chi Cheng to move closer, to kiss him? What the hell was wrong with him? It never came though. Chi Cheng’s cheek brushed past his. His nose settled at the base of his ear, breathing in. SuoWei shuddered, clutching the side of the tub harder.

“You smell good. What is that?” Chi Cheng took another whiff, breathing in the smell as he pushed his nose further into SuoWei’s hair.

“M-my shampoo?” Fuck. Why was his voice so shaky?

“It smells nice. I like it.” Chi Cheng pulled away slowly. He smirked at the red dusting SuoWei’s ears, neck and face. Oh he was definitely enjoying this view.

“It’s a-a floral scented shampoo.” He sat up straight, sitting on the stool again. Chi Cheng’s eyes roamed the embarrassed expression over the human’s face, smiling.

“Can I use it?” The question caught SuoWei off guard for a moment.

“Use it? Like, you want to wash your hair?” Chi Cheng nodded gently.

“Or you could wash it for me. I have no idea what to do with it.” His smirk grew wider as he watched SuoWei fiddle with his hands.

“I can just tell you what to do and you do it yourself.” SuoWei purposefully averted his gaze.

“Where’s the fun in that? You know how to do it better than me anyway. Come on, you can tell me about yourself while you do it.” Chi Cheng’s voice dawned fake sweetness. He was trying to coax SuoWei to agree.

”I,” SuoWei thought for a moment. Why was he agreeing to this? “Okay.” Chi Cheng smirked up at him.

”Good. How about now? For your own sake right? Get it done and over with?” Chi Cheng’s hand reached for SuoWei’s gently, and when he pulled away, Chi Cheng didn’t chase. 

“I’ll go get it then.” SuoWei stood up and quickly walked out of the room. As soon as he was out of view from the merman, he pressed his back against the wall. His hand clutched his chest for a moment and he took a few deep breaths.

As he kept breathing, SuoWei walked to his bathroom. He picked up the shampoo he used, and the conditioner as well. He didn’t want to waste his nice products on someone who would just go back in the ocean eventually — there was something though, that made him want to ignore it. The thought of running his hands through Chi Cheng’s hair made his stomach turn.

SuoWei made his way back to Chi Cheng, bottles in his hands. As he entered the room, he noticed how Chi Cheng rested over the edge. He was watching the doorway, almost waiting for him to return. A smile adorned his face as SuoWei entered the room again.

”Let me see them.” Chi Cheng’s hand reached out for the bottles. SuoWei complied, handing the bottles over as he walked closer. The bottles were white, with flowers covering the front.

”I brought the shampoo and conditioner too.” SuoWei explained.

”They’re different?” Chi Cheng opened the cap and smelled it. The same scent that SuoWei was covered in. Chi Cheng kept taking whiffs, closing his eyes for a moment to enjoy it.

”One is to clean the oils off, and the other is to make it soft and smooth.” SuoWei pointed to each bottle respectively.

”Well, let’s get started then shall we?” Chi Cheng handed them back and sat up in his tub.

“I don’t think we should do it in that tub.” SuoWei pointed out.

“Why not?”

”It can sting if it gets in your eyes. I don’t know what will happen if it gets in your gills.” SuoWei rounded the tub, to stand behind Chi Cheng.

”What do you suggest then?” He sounded impatient.

”You could either lean your head back out of the tub, or I move you.” Chi Cheng thought for a moment. He didn’t really want to get out of the tub.

“Can I sit in the cart?” Chi Cheng’s smirk only received an annoyed groan.

”I’m not getting it out again. I put it away for a reason.” He pulled the plastic stool over and sat down.

”I had so much fun though.” Chi Cheng chuckled at the sigh SuoWei let out.

”I know you did. You kept following me around and bothering me.” He set the bottles on the floor. “Tilt your head back.” SuoWei placed his hands on Chi Cheng’s forehead and pulled his head back. He looked down, only to be met with a smug grin from the merman.

”Actually I think I like this already.” SuoWei sighed again.

”Stay still, I need to get some water.” He got up for a moment and grabbed a large bucket. SuoWei filled it up at the spicket on the wall. He let the water fill up half way before shutting it off. He pulled it over and set it down next to the tub.

There was a small cup in it already. SuoWei regularly used this to fill up the tubs if they needed to be refilled or the water needed to be changed. His hands grabbed Chi Cheng’s head again and pulled him back. He wasn’t worried about the floor getting wet, he can clean up later.

Chi Cheng held his head over the rim, staring up at SuoWei.

”Close your eyes.” He placed his hand over Chi Cheng’s eyes. The merman brought his hand up and removed SuoWei’s hand.

”I want to look at you though.” SuoWei sighed out again.

”If you don’t want this to get in your eyes, close them.” Chi Cheng rolled his eyes, but did as told.

SuoWei took the small cup and poured it over Chi Cheng’s hair. He repeated the motion a few times before the hair was thoroughly soaked. The shampoo bottle was uncapped, and the liquid was poured into SuoWei’s hand.

SuoWei rubbed his hands together to spread it out. His hands hovered over Chi Cheng’s hair for a moment before continuing. He started at the hairline, using the tips of his fingers to massage the shampoo into Chi Cheng’s scalp gently. His hands made careful circles as they moved down his head.

The suds gave off a sweet smell and Chi Cheng inhaled. SuoWei would never admit it, but it was embarrassing how much Chi Cheng liked the smell of his shampoo – the smell of him. SuoWei’s hands moved further down, gently scratching the nape of Chi Cheng’s neck. His fingers digging gently into the flesh, massaging the area.

”You’re really good at this Da Bao.” There was something underneath his tone that made SuoWei’s heart thump louder. It sounded like a groan — no, no. It couldn’t be that right? He was just imagining things.

”I do this a lot with my own hair.” He was telling the truth. He read somewhere that good hair care is important. It prevents dandruff and scalp irritation. Being outside most days, and out on the sea can be bad for hair, so he makes sure to keep a good routine.

”I can tell.” Another tone that made SuoWei look at Chi Cheng’s face harder than he should have. Chi Cheng’s face was contorted into, something. It wasn’t pain, but it wasn’t exactly something SuoWei could pinpoint.

His eyes scrunched up, his lips pulled into a smile to show his teeth. His tail lifted gently, frozen in the air before being set back down against the rim of the tub.

There was silence between them for a while as SuoWei scrubbed the shampoo in more. His fingers raked through the dark hair, combing out the knots gently.

SuoWei didn’t mean it, really. He didn’t intend to pull as hard as he did. The sound Chi Cheng gave in response was something SuoWei wishes he could scrub from his brain for a slew of reasons.

”Stop that.” SuoWei tried to hide the wobble in his voice. His fingers continued to move, gently scratching Chi Cheng’s scalp with his nails.

”You’re just so good at this.” Chi Cheng cracked an eye open. The sight above him would make any sane man go mad. SuoWei’s face was red, very red. He looked down at Chi Cheng as if he had committed a crime against him. He loved seeing the annoyed yet highly embarrassed expression on Wu SuoWei’s face.

”Shut up and keep your eyes closed.” Water was suddenly poured over Chi Cheng’s face and hair. His eyes shut quickly, a chuckle leaving his throat.

”You still have to tell me more about yourself. You promised, remember?” Chi Cheng tilted his head back more.

”Do I have to?” Another cup of water to rinse the remaining suds out.

”Unless you want me to bother you constantly about it.” Chi Cheng chuckled as SuoWei groaned in annoyance. He reached for the shampoo again, using far less than the first time.

”More shampoo?” Chi Cheng questioned.

”The first one uses more to get the initial oils off. The second round uses less, and focuses more on cleaning the scalp and ends.” SuoWei explained. That’s what he usually did. Chi Cheng would realistically need far more treatment since he was in the sea his whole life. For now though, this would do.

”Pull harder this time.” He leaned back again, smirking proudly.

”Freak.” SuoWei pushed his hands through Chi Cheng’s hair again, making sure he was much gentler.

”So, how long have you lived here?” Chi Cheng kept his eyes closed. His head jostled with the movements of SuoWei’s hands.

”My whole life basically. My parents grew up here as well.” His hands scrubbed again unconsciously.

”Were they fishers as well?” Chi Cheng opened his eye a little, waiting for SuoWei to respond.

”My father was. My mom was mostly a homebody.” Chi Cheng noted how SuoWei smiled to himself.

”You said before that your father died when you were young?” The smile faded slightly, it didn’t reach his eyes. 

“Yes. My parents had me when they were older. My mother had a lot of trouble getting pregnant. When they had me, they were so happy.” Another smile as SuoWei thought of his childhood.

”How old were you?” Chi Chang asked cautiously. He wanted to learn more, but not at the expense of SuoWei getting upset.

”Around eight years old. He’d been gone for sixteen years when my mom passed away.” His tone was solemn.

”Was he the one who taught you how to fish?” Chi Cheng scrunched his face up as SuoWei poured another cup of water on his hair. He gently ruffled the dark hair to release any remaining suds.

”He was. He used to take me out fishing on his boat when I was young and show me what to do. He’d always say I caught on quickly to anything he taught me. After he died, I promised my mother that I would continue fishing to make money.” SuoWei reached for the conditioner and squeezed out a small amount onto his palm.

”I started breeding koi a few years ago. My mother always loved koi. She was always so sweet to them. Though I always did have to tell her not to over feed them or they’d get chubby.” He smiled to himself at the memory. Chi Cheng smiled in turn at SuoWei’s happy expression.

”Your koi are quite pretty. I especially like the all white one in your pond outside.” Chi Cheng closed his eyes again as SuoWei’s hands gently lathered his hair.

”Ah, that was the offspring to one of my most valuable sales a few years ago. She was a completely white koi. Not a spot of color on her. I bred her with an all black one I had. I was expecting more variety in the color with that batch of offspring.” He kept rambling, and Chi Cheng simply looked at him.

His hands moved back and forth above his face. The look of concentration on SuoWei’s face had him mesmerized. Chi Cheng chuckled to himself at the view. He wasn’t exactly ignoring the words, but he found it hard to listen when he felt so enamoured with SuoWei. He was talking about something he enjoyed and it made Chi Cheng’s heart jump.

”Are you listening to me?” SuoWei snapped his fingers above Chi Cheng’s face. 

“It sounds nice.” SuoWei scoffed slightly.

”You weren’t listening.” His hands ceased their movements. He pushed his fingers back into Chi Cheng’s hair. The conditioner made his hair feel silky between his fingers.

”Just barely listening. You talk so passionately about it.” Chi Cheng closed his eyes at the returning feeling of hands on his scalp.

”I’ve been doing it for so long. I have a lot to say.” He pouted his bottom lip out in a joking way. “I do have a question for you though.” His fingers pulled back, gently grabbing the strands.

“I thought I was supposed to be asking the questions.” He gently laughed as SuoWei tugged his hair again. SuoWei rolled his eyes, but asked anyway.

”If you’re always locked up in your home, why were you so close to the surface?” SuoWei removed his hands completely from Chi Cheng’s hair.

”I managed to get away when the guards weren’t looking. I wasn’t lying about hunting for fish. I’m just not usually the one allowed to do it. It’s always done for me.” His eyes opened again at the loss of contact. As if reading his mind, SuoWei responded.

”It has to stay in for a little bit for the conditioner to cling to your hair. It helps keep it smooth.” Chi Cheng hummed.

”You’ll have to do this for me more often. I’ll make sure to get it messed up again.” He gave a wink and SuoWei just rolled his eyes again. If Chi Cheng stayed any longer, his eyes would fall out of his own head.

”You’ll have to go back to the sea eventually.” SuoWei wiped his hand off on his pants before pinching Chi Cheng’s nose between his knuckles. His hand was playfully slapped away.

”Just a little longer Da Bao. I can’t stand to be apart from you.” The smugness of his grin made SuoWei sigh in annoyance.

”Yeah yeah.” He stood up, walking over to the small spicket on the wall. He rinsed his hands off of the conditioner.

”Let me ask more things.” He turned to watch SuoWei.

”You said while I was washing your hair. I’m not currently doing that.” Chi Cheng huffed.

”You’re playing so hard to get.”

”I’m not playing anything. You’re playing by yourself.” SuoWei pointed at the merman as he stood up. He walked over and took a seat in the stool again.

”I bet you’d like me to play with myself.” His smirk grew as SuoWei groaned.

“You know that’s not what I said asshole.” Another chuckle.

There was a silence between them as SuoWei let the conditioner set. It didn’t need long, just a few minutes. The time didn’t bother him — the way Chi Cheng leaned his head back to look up at him however. Something in the way he looked made SuoWei want to hide away. He noticed the subtle movement of Chi Cheng’s eyes as he looked over his face.

”What? What are you looking at?” His face felt hot under the gaze.

”Something interesting.” Chi Cheng reached his hand up and gently brushed SuoWei’s bangs from his face. 

He should’ve pulled away, SuoWei knew that. But the clawed hand was warm, slightly wet, but warm. He didn’t lean into the touch, he didn’t. It was just his imagination when Chi Cheng’s smile grew wider and the gentle touch pressed harder over his temple.

”I’ll wash the conditioner out now.” Chi Cheng let his arm fall to his stomach. He pushed his head back more to give SuoWei a better angle.

SuoWei lifted the cup and poured a generous amount of water over Chi Cheng’s hair. He used his hand to roughly rub out the excess conditioner. It fell to the floor beneath SuoWei’s feet. There was silence between them, to SuoWei’s gratitude. Chi Cheng simply hummed at the feeling of SuoWei’s hands back in his hair. 

Another cup of water poured over his hair, and more rubbing at the hair to get it all out. SuoWei removed his hands and put the cup back into the bucket. 

“I’m gonna wring the excess water out.” Chi Cheng hummed in acknowledgment. SuoWei’s fingers gently ran through the dark hair, squeezing. The water fell to the ground with the rest of the suds. He took large clumps of hair and squeezed harshly.

The sounds Chi Cheng made were not helping his already confused heartbeat. Gentle groans of contentment, whether they be intentional or not. It made SuoWei’s heart leap a few times.

”One last question.” Chi Cheng spoke up. SuoWei was almost done, but he complied.

”Go ahead.” His hand gently shook the dark strands in between his fingers. SuoWei felt satisfied with how much water he had gotten out for now. A towel and blowdryer would make it easier if he wanted to dry it more.

”Would you miss me?” Chi Cheng opened his eyes, staring up at SuoWei. There was only silence.

”What-“ A loud ringing interrupted SuoWei. He fumbled to take his phone out of his back pocket. The caller ID was a familiar one — Xiao Shuai. SuoWei shook his hand to get the excess water off before hitting the answer button.

”Hello? Shuai?” He looked away from Chi Cheng, needing a moment to recollect himself.

”Da Wei, come to the docks tomorrow night with Chi Cheng.” Xiao Shuai’s voice rang gently.

”Huh? Why?” SuoWei wondered why he wanted to see Chi Cheng all of a sudden. Has his reports not been good enough for Guo ChengYu? 

“Guo ChengYu wants to talk with Chi Cheng. I’m with him right now.” SuoWei looked outside, he hadn’t even realized how late it had gotten.

“About what?” He wanted to avoid meeting the merman. The aggressive first impression left him cautious.

“Would you just come to the dock tomorrow night?” His best friend's voice was sharp and insistent.

“Okay, okay. I’ll bring him tomorrow.” Chi Cheng listened in, curious.

“Da Bao.” He motioned with his hand for SuoWei to lean down. “Gimme.” He grabbed the phone out of SuoWei’s hand quickly.

“Hey! Give that back, be careful.” SuoWei’s voice rang through the line. Chi Cheng turned his body, keeping the phone out of reach.

“Why does he need to talk to me? I already told him I’m not going back.” Chi Cheng stated harshly. He shifted in the tub as SuoWei reached across him to grab his phone back.

“He said it’s important. He’s not telling me anything else. Besides, I need to make a check of your sutures to see if we can take them out or not.” Chi Chang sighed into the phone.

“Fine. Da Bao will bring me tomorrow night.” He could hear Xiao Shuai about to speak again, but he hit the end call button before any words came out.

“Chi Cheng! You can’t just take my phone like that.” SuoWei managed to snatch his phone back. He still leaned over the tub for a moment. Chi Cheng smirked.

“Are you going to join me in here? Or just hang over me like this?” He glanced at how SuoWei shadowed his body in the tub. He quickly shot back to sit down on the stool again. SuoWei cleared his throat nervously.

“I’ll go get something to dry your hair. I’ll be right back.” SuoWei stood up and left the room. He made sure to grab his shampoo and conditioner to take back to the bathroom. He took the hairdryer from the cabinet and grabbed a towel from the rack.

“Can’t it just air dry? That’s always how it dries anyway.” Chi Cheng said as SuoWei entered the room again.

“It’ll dry faster this way.” He took a seat behind Chi Cheng again. The towel flopped unceremoniously onto Chi Cheng’s face. SuoWei grabbed it and pulled back on it. The soft fabric rustled Chi Cheng’s hair harshly.

“Careful. You’ll snap my head off like that.” Chi Cheng’s eyes were scrunched shut at the shaking.

“Maybe then you’ll quit your flirting.” SuoWei smiled to himself.

“Never if it’s you Da Bao.” He opened his eyes to look up at the unimpressed face of SuoWei. Chi Cheng smiled regardless.

SuoWei plugged the hair dryer’s cord into a nearby wall outlet. He fiddled with the switch for a moment before turning it on. Hot air streamed out of the vent at the front. It pointed at Chi Cheng’s hair, slowly drying it. The whole process didn’t take longer than ten minutes.

Chi Cheng sat compliantly as the warm air streamed over his hair and neck. The gentle fingers of SuoWei returned to his scalp as he moved his hair around to aerate it more.

“There, done.” SuoWei shut the dryer off and unplugged it. He rounded the tub and looked down at Chi Cheng. The sight almost made him gasp.

Chi Cheng’s bangs ended low on his face, almost covering his eyes. His hair looked fluffy and soft. He wanted to run his hands through it again, to feel how soft it truly was. He worked hard to give Chi Cheng that hair, he should be allowed to touch it.

“Like something you see?” Chi Cheng stared up at him through his bangs, a smirk on his face.

“In your dreams, fish.” SuoWei clutched the dryer to his chest as he stormed out of the room. The gentle chuckles of Chi Cheng were heard behind him.

SuoWei made his way back to his room. He took a dramatic seat on his bed. He fell backwards and rubbed at his eyes with the palms of his hands.

Fuck, what is wrong with me?? Why do I think he looks so good? He couldn’t figure out why his heart always started racing when Chi Cheng looked at him like that. It was going to have to be a problem for another day. He was tired and just wanted to sleep.

SuoWei repositioned himself to lay properly in his bed. His head rested comfortably on the pillow as his eyelids grew heavy. His brain played the scenes of Chi Cheng looking at him over and over again as he finally fell into unconsciousness.