Affection and Trust

Back to the Shenci Island.

Faint drizzle descended from the overcast sky, infusing the air with a biting chill. However, inside the bathroom of Rui Ye's cottage on top of the hill, the air was warm – humid, even – courtesy to the steaming bath Song Zhuyu had drawn. 

Rui Ye slumped bonelessly in the tub, allowing Song Zhuyu to wipe his body clean of sweat, dirt, and other fluids. Just like a pretty doll he could play and toy with however he pleased. The sudden notion caused the corner of Song Zhuyu's lips to twitch into a semblance of a smile. Rui Ye's breathing remained smooth and even, making it impossible for him to gauge whether the man had fallen asleep or not. Thus he was slightly surprised when Rui Ye spoke, his voice soft and unhurried like a cat basking lazily in the sunlight, "You keep taking care of me… don't you want to come in too?"