In Between Us || Zhanyi

Untitled Part 27

Yibo reached the café, Kuan had asked to meet him everyday after university. Kuan suggested to had the sessions outside the university walls, for which Yibo didn't show any restrain. He found his usual seat by the window, and began pulling out his notes and textbook. The place had become a comfortable study corner, somewhere he could let his guard down, even if just for a little while. Knowing he was meeting Professor Kuan, a sense of relief washed over him. With each session, Kuan had made sure he understood every detail, patiently breaking down complex concepts and guiding him through topics he'd nearly given up on.

Kuan arrived moments later, his gentle smile as reassuring as ever. "Hey, Yibo, sorry for the wait, the workload nowadays just terrified" he said, setting down a large stack of notes, his eyes already scanning Yibo's open textbook.

"No problem, Professor Liu and I am sorry for bothering you when you are already so busy." Yibo felt guilty and apologized

"First, it's Kuan for you. Come on!!! You are now in your final years, at least now call me by name, I don't wanna feel so old so soon you know...Prof. Kuan, sounds as if I'm aging, Am I?", Kuan replied playfully making the tension ease

"No, not at all, you are very young and handsome too", Yibo spoke with a smile, something genuine in his expression

"Really, even more than your dear hubby?", Kuan asked, his expression soft and light. The only person from the university who had the knowledge about Yibo's marriage was Kuan but he didn't know whom Yibo was married to. He wanted to know, but it felt somewhere wrong to ask Yibo directly such personal question from a position of being his professor.

The sentence definitely made Yibo stunned momentarily, Zhan's whole glory came in front of his eyes vividly..be as his professor or his husband, Zhan always looked perfect in his eyes. But then again, those words from that lady echoed in his mind.... "Didn't I tell you, you look more handsome in bright colors", making Yibo restless

"Ok, fine, I won't compete, Lets have something then we'll continue" Kuan settled across from Yibo and waved at the waiter. As usual, he ordered an extra-large meal, pointing out more dishes than either of them could realistically finish.

Yibo's eyebrows rose slightly. "You know, you don't have to do this every time.", Yibo wasn't so naive to understand what Kuan was intended to do. He just couldn't argue with the Prof and disappoint him again.

"Nonsense! We need fuel to keep up with the workload," Kuan insisted, chuckling lightly. "Besides, I think it's nice to have a good meal when you're working this hard. The body and mind are connected, after all. Now come on, help me to finish this, as I am really hungry", Kuan replied, his tone light.

Reluctantly, Yibo took a bite, realizing how hungry he actually was. They began reviewing notes, but between explanations and exercises, Kuan would make sure Yibo took more bites of food, subtly but firmly encouraging him.

Kuan watched Yibo with a gentle concern, aware of the younger man's struggles and resilience. Seeing Yibo pushing himself so hard, even putting his health at stake, brought a pang of sadness to him. He didn't know who Yibo's husband was—only that Yibo had briefly mentioned it, revealing the marriage had been arranged by his family. Watching Yibo now, Kuan couldn't help but feel a quiet resentment for the person who, in his eyes, had left Yibo struggling.

Kuan glanced at Yibo's notes, quickly assessing his progress. "You're catching up quickly, but try to pace yourself. You look like you haven't had a full night's sleep in days."

Yibo looked away, a small smile tugging at his lips as he shrugged. "I'll sleep when I've caught up. The exams are too close now."

Kuan nodded, understanding the underlying urgency without questioning it further. He began guiding Yibo through a complex series of equations, leaning over his shoulder to point out different approaches. Yibo felt his confidence growing with each session. For once, his mind wasn't clouded with thoughts of failure or falling behind; Kuan's presence helped him feel capable.  

Unbeknownst to Yibo, from a distance, a pair of eyes were overserving him keenly. A dark, murderous aura radiating from the man who clenched his fists. His gaze narrowed dangerously as he watched Yibo's smile, the ease with which he interacted with Kuan. There was something unsettling about seeing Yibo so carefree, especially in the presence of another man. 

...To Be Continued