Xue Yang wants to protect him from the harsh world, but knows he can't. Not really. Not entirely, if just because he's in it and he's...still a monster. But a monster that's trying to be better now. He can't change what he's done, but he can dedicate himself to not doing those things again. And so far, in Gazin, he's been doing a good job. Not even Hanguang-Jun can say he's broken their truce.

He startles a little at the words. Wonder and awe settling in as he stares intently at Xingchen. Dares to press his hand a little more, cupping a pale cheek. Xingchen didn't flinch from his touch.

Then Xiao Xingchen leans in. A kiss. Knowing full well who it is he's kissing, this time. It makes his heart leap and chest grow tight. Shock is the only reason he doesn't immediately press into it, but as soon as it starts to fade, he kisses back. Fingers trembling a little where pressed to Xingchen's cheek.

He doesn't let himself ask for more, not yet. Not matter how much he wants to curl around this man and kiss him all over.

His breath huffs out when he pulls back a little, a bit of a shaky little laugh.

"I told you, Xiao Xingchen. Anything for you. Everything, for you. I don't care what it is."