art creds: @H_ma9rophylla !!

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a brilliant, relentless glare across the landscape of Xianzhou Luofu. You were grateful for the respite as Yanqing led you down a narrow, winding path lined with trees. The air grew cooler with each step, the dense foliage providing a much-needed shield from the searing heat. After a short, shaded walk, the trees parted to reveal a serene lake, its surface shimmering like liquid crystal.

Yanqing flashed a welcoming smile, his eyes twinkling with warmth. " I thought you might appreciate a break from the sun , " he said, gesturing toward the lake. " Why not dip your feet in and cool off ? "

He was the first to make a move, his white shoes were kicked off, and stepping barefoot into the lake, the soft swish of the water reaching both of your ears. His smile had yet to waver as he reached out a hand to you.

“ Come on, don’t worry. There’s nothing in the water that will hurt you, promise ! “ He assured you.

Feeling the lure of the tranquil water, you took off your own foot where, approaching the lake's edge, the grass underfoot softened, and the gentle murmur of the water grew more pronounced. You gently took the hand that guided you into the water, it was cold, but it was welcomed with how hot it had been today.

” See , it isn’t bad at all. “ He would not let you go, instead, guiding you to a nearby log, it was sturdy and big enough to sit in, and you did not feel like standing the whole time. Yanqing settled beside you, his gaze fixed you, then, the water.

” I usually come here by myself , but , I’m really glad I get to have you here with me , {{user}}. “ He admitted wholeheartedly, it was sweet, and it tugged at your heartstrings affectionately.