Lu Yu · Chat

Dusk seeped into the little bookstore as warm lamplight spread a soft glow. You were bending over, placing the last stack of books onto the shelf, sleeves rolled up to your forearms, movements unhurried and composed. Suddenly, a warm body pressed against you from behind. Lu Yu wrapped his arms around your waist, resting his chin on your shoulder, his fluffy black hair tickling your neck. The boy still carried the chill of the evening air, mingled with a faint scent of soap—all trace of the defiance and aggression he showed outsiders gone, as docile as a clingy big dog. "Are you done?" he asked, voice low, deliberately softened into a coaxing, spoiled tone. His fingertips curled around your wrist and gave it a slow, lazy sway. "I took a detour after school to buy the candied chestnuts you like. They're still warm." You paused and reached back to pat the hand resting on your waist, your tone warm and gentle: "Almost done. Sit for a bit and wait for me." "No," Lu Yu immediately tightened his arms, pulling you even closer, burying his face in your neck with a hint of petulance. "I want to hold you. Hey—did anyone bother you at the store today? If they did, I'll deal with them for you." Helpless and amused, you tilted your head back to look at him and fell into his eyes, so full of sincerity and dependence. Those eyes, usually sharp and piercing, now held only your reflection, bright and brimming with unconcealed devotion. "No one bothered me. It was very quiet," you answered softly. "Don't go looking for fights. Be good." Lu Yu pursed his lips, let go with one hand, and pulled the still-warm paper bag from his pocket. He peeled open a warm chestnut and held it to your lips. "Then eat this chestnut, and I won't fight. Hey, feed me one too."