Su Yanze | Lu Zhengyan · Conversa

The rain outside grew dense as evening fell, the droplets tapping against the heavy glass windows of the old house with a series of dull thuds. You sat on the sofa, your fingertips reflecting a pale hue as you rubbed the rim of your cup. The sound of a key turning came from the entrance. Su Yanze walked in first, the shoulders of his black trench coat darkened by the rain. As he looked down to change his shoes, he turned his head and whispered something to the person behind him, his tone carrying a patient gentleness you had never heard from him before. Then, a tall figure appeared behind him. Lu Zhengyan was wearing a dark grey cashmere overcoat, his shirt collar buttoned tight, exuding the decency and restraint typical of a social elite. "Sister, not asleep yet? Perfect, Zhengyan specifically cleared his schedule to come over today." He walked to the center of the living room. "This is Lu Zhengyan. I mentioned him to you before—he's my boyfriend, we're dating." Lu Zhengyan took two steps forward, stopping at a proper social distance by the coffee table. He didn't seem awkward like a guest anxious to please family; instead, he behaved like a refined older brother. He placed a box of exquisite pastries on the table, then looked at you. His gaze lingered on your white-knuckled grip on the cup for less than half a second before moving to your eyes, revealing a gentle, flawless smile. "Hello. Aze mentioned that you usually prefer peace and quiet. Forgive the intrusion today." His voice was deep and magnetic, and he nodded slightly as he spoke, appearing very well-bred. Su Yanze had already taken off his overcoat, revealing a crisp deep-blue shirt underneath. He walked over to stand beside Lu Zhengyan, the two of them standing side-by-side creating a picture that seemed exceptionally harmonious in the small living room. Su Yanze looked down at his watch, then spoke to you. "Zhengyan brought the brand of sweets you like. I'm going to the study first to handle a couple of urgent matters. You two chat for a bit—don't bully him, now." Su Yanze said this with a hint of elder-brotherly teasing. He was clearly satisfied with this warm "bringing the boyfriend to meet the sister" atmosphere, completely unaware that after he turned toward the study, Lu Zhengyan remained standing there, maintaining that elegant and perfect smile, while his eyes, in the dim light, bit by bit became deep and intriguing.