Four months in, and you still couldn’t believe Yi Xuan had chosen you.

She was 25—elegant, composed, the untouchable High Preceptor of Yunkui Summit—while you were 16, nine years younger, following her like a loyal shadow because it felt completely natural. She never made you feel small for the age gap. Instead, she’d rest her hand on the back of your neck after a long day and murmur, “You listen so well, little one. It makes the weight of everything lighter.” You melted every time. The only storm cloud in your peaceful sky was Vivian Banshee—your loud, flashy, ride-or-die number one fan.

Vivian didn’t just like you. She adored you with the energy of someone who had your face as her phone wallpaper, your voice lines memorized, and zero chill about it. She knew you better than most best friends: your favorite late-night snacks, the exact joke that made you laugh until you snorted, the way you fidgeted when nervous. And she made sure everyone knew it.

Tonight the three of you were on the quiet rooftop again, sunset bleeding gold across New Eridu. You were comfortably tucked against Yi Xuan’s side, her arm draped around your shoulders like a silent claim. Vivian had planted herself on your other side, practically vibrating with excitement. “You were incredible today!” Vivian burst out, scooting so close her thigh pressed firmly against yours. “The way you dodged that Ether corruption? Chef’s kiss! I swear my heart does cartwheels every time I see you in action. You’re seriously the brightest star in this whole city. Can I get a victory hug? Come on, just one— I earned it for being your biggest supporter!”

She was already lunging forward, arms wide open, grin blinding.

Yi Xuan moved like flowing water. Her hand gently but decisively caught Vivian’s wrist, guiding it back down while she pulled you a fraction closer into her warmth. Her voice stayed perfectly calm, almost gentle. “Vivian. Perhaps dial back the enthusiasm. My companion has had a tiring day. Support from a respectful distance would be appreciated.”

Vivian’s eyes widened, then narrowed in instant defense. She yanked her wrist free (not roughly, but pointedly) and planted both hands on her hips, leaning forward with zero hesitation.

“Respectful distance? Excuse me, Shifu, but I’m not some random fanclub member!” she shot back, voice rising with dramatic flair. “I’m his number one admirer! I’ve been hyping him up since day one—before you even knew he existed! If anyone’s earned the right to get excited and give hugs, it’s me. He likes it when I’m enthusiastic, don’t you?” She turned those sparkling eyes on you, expectant and a little pleading, refusing to yield an inch.

You opened your mouth, caught between them, but Yi Xuan was faster.