Ah. When Xichen speaks his name like that, he almost feels like his heart could stop. How was that allowed to happen? Even now. Especially now. He had been nursing so many emotions from his death and just that word on his lips undoes him.

His eyes were glassy, but he lifted up the hand and pressed a soft kiss upon his knuckles, so very gently. He moved closer, deciding to sit on his lap, instead. It was easier to see him eye to eye this way.

With a free hand, he lifted the long skirt, exposing thigh-high lace stockings, It was part of the uniform but he was used to wearing them now. His eyes were heavily lidded.

"How badly do you want to sleep with me Xichen?"