Chu Wanning focus on the table in front of him. Not looking up or around.
He knew, oh he knew, that weather he look like this or not his presence would dampen the mood. Because the party is for him the people would think they should act how he acts; proper and stuck up. Something he's heard two people whisper about.Why does he always act so proper and stuck up?It's why he tries not to draw attention to himself. He'd much rather stay on the side; a wallflower. People can enjoy themselves and he doesn't get the spotlight. His presence ruins everyone's mood. He heard how lively everyone was.
But of course Madam Wang had to dress him up. Wanning never knew (and never thought he would learn) how much time it takes a woman to get ready. And he dismissed putting anything on his face. She also did not have to dress Wanning up, he was fine with his normal clothes. But Wanning can never say no to the people he cares about. She even did his hair. He knows he looks ridiculous.
It was enough attention with his new body but to also have to sit by the sect leader and family, he doesn't belong there. He would much rather sit quietly, being ignored by the elders. He could have blended in with the other old men.
Of course, instead he's here.
At the main family table.
In elaborate and beautiful clothing and jewelry.
As everyone sit in silence.
So Wanning focus on the food in front of him. A cup of wine next to his plate. His hands finally unclench from gripping his knees so tight. Wanning decides to ignore everything and enjoy what he can. That being a good meal after so long and some good wine.
Mo Ran straightens his spine once again, catching himself hunch a bit. Even though Wanning isn't near him or looking in his direction. Once again his eyes go to the other man. Eyes landing on Wanning as he elegantly picks up his chopsticks to begin eating. He couldn't help himself, staring at the ethereal beauty that is Wanning. The way he sat, the way his hair cascade down his back. The way his bangs frame his perfect face. So perfect it didn't change much as a woman.
But staring at Wanning so intensely, Mo Ran can't help but notice the subtle things. The way Wanning expression has gone neutral, but not because of indifference, boredom or even to show off power. His expression is like that as a shield. To not show his true feeling. What are those true feelings? Mo Ran can guess but maybe sadness. He can see sadness deep in Wanning eyes.
Sadness about? Mo Ran doesn't know. Although, the fact everyone was loud and enjoying themselves before Wanning made his appearance must hurt. The thought hurts Mo Ran. If this was before he would have made fun of Wanning. Mo Ran turns his attention to the others in the hall. Everyone sat stiff. For different reasons. Those who are old enough to remember Wanning and those who have no clue, but have heard the rumors and don't truly understand them. The elders and older cultivators seem to be hypnotized for they have not stopped looking at shizun.
Mo Ran looks at Shi Mei, whose eyes are on Wanning looking sorry for him. Mo Ran has the urge to crush his cup but doesn't. He won't let these dark and unfamiliar feeling cloud his judgement. So what if Shi Mei has always taken Wanning side? It's not like he's going up and talking to him. It's not like Shi Mei ever acted on those sorry feelings. The hypocrite.
A part of Mo Ran wish he can do something but he's coming up blank. How does he liven the mood? How does he move attention from Wanning to the party.
"Oh!" Uncle Xue voices, remembering something. "I never thanked you Yuheng, for helping us get away from those bandits." he says grinning at Wanning.
"It was nothing." Wanning answers, voice loud and clear in the silent hall.
"We never thanked you either." A couple of disciple, the same ones that were with uncle, came towards them. Standing closer to Wanning. All bowing to him. Wanning make a face. He's not use to being thanked, especially not in public. He's so use to his kindness being unseen or mistaken for someone else's.
"Like I said, it was nothing." Wanning turns his head, hoping this is enough to dismiss them. Thinking he is harsh and wanting to stay away. Instead he can still feel eyes on him. Wanning takes a peak, to see them still staring. Looking down Wanning thinks about what to say to get them to go away.
"If you're so grateful let's celebrate." Mo Ran says leaning on his elbow, his lips up in a grin, looking rather mischievous. The disciples look at each, then smile. With a nod they scamper off back to their seats. They start happily discussing with their neighbors what had happen. The newer disciples curious as the Beidou Immortal doesn't get talked about much. Or at all.
Mo Ran spots the way Wanning relaxes with the attention mostly off him. Chatter begins to pick up as more and more people begin to talk. Even the music has slowly started again. Wanning turns to look at Mo Ran, their eyes connecting. Mo Ran can feel his heartbeat against his ribs. Wanning then gives him a thankful nod, then turns away. Mo Ran heart gets stuck in his throat. He wants more. They need to talk.
Though maybe not now. Mo Ran does want to apologize but not in front of the others. This conversation should be between Mo Ran and Chu Wanning only. At the moment he seems to be having a talk with aunt Wang. They must be talking about the still unconscious woman because auntie and shizun don't really have discussions. Sure they talk but mostly professional. They have never been close. Not even uncle is that close with Wanning. As much as he tries to be. Wanning has made sure to keep them away. To keep everyone away. And they let him.
Maybe they should push.
But not now. Mo Ran is the last person who should be doing that.
Uncle and auntie should try but they won't. Like they do with him they will keep a certain distance away from him. Even though prodding is sometimes needed.
For tonight Mo Ran will enjoy the party with Chu Wanning sitting beautifully a few seats away.