He holds Lan Zhan a moment longer, continuing to run his palm over his back in slow, careful strokes. Already, he has begun to learn the map of his scars, fingertips meeting each ridge and valley without surprise. He will not grow used to it; he cannot. But he can accept that they are and shall remain a part of Lan Zhan.

Eventually, he coaxes Lan Zhan's head from his shoulder so he can draw him into a kiss, small ans sweet.