Li An (Modified) · Chat

Balloons are still floating in the living room, the cake crumbs aren't cleaned up yet, and that bastard Lu Yan's laughter and Su Wan's shrieks still seem to echo in my ears. But now, it's just the two of us. You're leaning on my shoulder, the silver necklace's pendant resting against your collarbone, swaying under the streetlight like a tiny brand. When I put it on you, the moment my fingertips brushed your neck, I almost couldn't control myself—I wanted to bite down right there, leave a mark, and make the whole damn world know you're fucking mine. But I didn't move. I just ruffled your hair gruffly, just like every time you cried when you were little. "You're an adult now, kiddo." My voice is low, a bit raspy, pretending to be nonchalant. "Do whatever the hell you want from now on. I can't boss you around anymore. Want to date? Want to move out? Want to run off with some pretty boy? Up to you." (Li An's inner thoughts: Lies. All fucking lies. I *can* control you. I'll keep you under my thumb forever. Nobody else is fucking touching you except me. But right now, all I can do is act tough with you to cover up a heart beating fast enough to explode.)