Chereads / Royal Deception: A Mind Reader's Dilemma / Chapter 22 - Chapter 22: Intertwined

Chapter 22 - Chapter 22: Intertwined

As Liang Zheng and Jian Yu stood outside, lost in conversation, Jin Yu rushed up to them, slightly out of breath.

"Hyung, let's go home," Jin Yu said, addressing Jian Yu. "I want to head over to a friend's place to study. As we're not in the same department, and I need help with a project."

Jian Yu raised an eyebrow. "Are you sleeping over there tonight?"

Jin Yu nodded. "Yeah, I'll pack a bag. His mom said it's okay."

Liang Zheng's eyes sparkled with interest. "Actually, I was thinking, can I come study at your place, Jian Yu? We can review for our exams together."

Jian Yu's heart skipped a beat at the suggestion.

"Of course, Kim Liang," Jian Yu replied, trying to sound casual. "You're welcome to come over".

As they stepped out of the school gates, Kim Liang spotted his driver waiting patiently. He excused himself and approached the car.

"You can go," Liang Zheng said. "I'm staying over at a friend's place. I'll call Father and let him know."

The driver's expression turned concerned. "Young Master, the weather forecast says heavy rain is expected tonight."

Liang Zheng waved his hand reassuringly. "Don't worry, I'll be fine."

He rejoined Jian Yu and Jin Yu, who were watching the exchange with interest.

"Ready to head to your place?" Liang Zheng asked, his eyes sparkling.

Jian Yu nodded, and the trio set off toward his house.

Just as they turned the corner, dark clouds unleashed a torrent of rain. They quickened their pace, laughing as they dashed through the downpour.

"Run!" Jin Yu yelled, his hair plastered to his forehead.

Liang Zheng grinned, his eyes shining with excitement. "This is crazy!"

Jian Yu chuckled, pulling up his hood. "Welcome to my neighborhood!"

They burst through the front door, shaking off the rain.

"Mom's still at work," Jian Yu said, stomping his feet dry. "Hyung, tell Mom I'll be back tomorrow morning."

Jin Yu swiftly changed clothes, packed a bag, and grabbed an umbrella.

Jin Yu grinned mischievously. "Alright, I'll leave you two to study... or whatever."

Liang Zheng chuckled, and Jian Yu playfully rolled his eyes.

"I'll head to my friend's place. "See you guys later!" Jin Yu called out, dashing back into the rain.

Jian Yu watched his brother go before turning to Liang Zheng.

"Make yourself at home," Jian Yu said with a smile.

Liang Zheng's eyes roved over the cozy living room. "Your place is warm and inviting."

Jian Yu's cheeks flushed. "Thanks."

He pulled out his phone and dialed his mom.

"Mom, Jin Yu's staying over at his friend's place tonight," Jian Yu said. "And Kim Liang is here to study with me."

His mom's voice was warm over the line. "Okay, dear. Be good. There's food in the fridge; warm it up for dinner. Love you."

"Love you too, Mom," Jian Yu replied, hanging up.

Liang Zheng's gaze met Jian Yu's.

"Shall we get started on studying?" Liang Zheng asked, his voice low and husky.

Jian Yu's heart skipped a beat.

Kim Liang pulled out his phone. "I need to call Father and let him know I'm staying over."

Jian Yu nodded, leading Liang Zheng to his and Jin Yu's cozy bedroom.

The room was a snug sanctuary, reflecting the brothers' personalities. Two single beds, adorned with vibrant bedspreads, sat against opposite walls. Jian Yu's bed was cluttered with textbooks, notes, and a guitar, while Jin Yu's bed had a few favorite manga novels and a gaming console.

A shared desk in the corner held a laptop, stacks of books, and a framed photo of the brothers with their mom. The walls were painted a soothing sky blue, and a large window allowed natural light to pour in.

Liang Zheng's eyes scanned the room, taking in the warm atmosphere.

Jian Yu handed Liang Zheng a fresh towel and a clean set of clothes. "You can change into these."

"Thanks," Liang Zheng said, smiling.

As Liang Zheng dialed his father's number, Jian Yu began to change into comfortable clothes.

"Appa, I'll be staying over at a friend's place to study," Liang Zheng left a voicemail. "Don't worry, I'll see you tomorrow."

He hung up and turned to Jian Yu, who was now wearing a cozy sweatshirt.

"Feel better?" Jian Yu asked, gesturing to the clothes he lent Liang Zheng.

Liang Zheng nodded, shedding his wet jacket. "Thanks, Jian Yu. Your room is really cozy."

Jian Yu smiled. "It's home."

As Liang Zheng changed, Jian Yu's gaze drifted to him, admiring the way Liang Zheng's hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck.

Liang Zheng caught Jian Yu's glance and smiled, his heart skipping a beat.

Jian Yu headed to the kitchen, the scent of hot chocolate wafting through the air as he prepared two steaming mugs. He returned to the living room, where Liang Zheng sat on the couch, gazing out the window at the rain.

"Hot chocolate and cookies?" Jian Yu asked, setting the tray down.

Liang Zheng's eyes lit up. "You read my mind."

They sipped their hot chocolate, rich and creamy, accompanied by crunchy chocolate chip cookies. The warmth and comfort of the moment wrapped around them like a cozy blanket.

After their snack, Jian Yu stood up. "Time to get some chores done."

He gathered Jin Yu's, Liang Zheng's, and his own school uniforms, now damp from the rain, and headed to the laundry room. The washer hummed to life as he added detergent and started the cycle.

Liang Zheng looked up from his phone, a grateful smile on his face. "Thanks, Jian Yu. You're a lifesaver."

"No worries," Jian Yu replied, returning to the living room.

As Liang Zheng scrolled through his phone, Jian Yu busied himself arranging the house. He fluffed the couch cushions, straightened the coffee table, and watered the plants on the windowsill. The room transformed into a serene oasis.

Next, Jian Yu moved to the laundry room, transferring the uniforms to the dryer. The soft rumble filled the air as he selected the delicate cycle.

"Your house is so cozy," Liang Zheng said, watching Jian Yu's efficient movements.

Jian Yu smiled. "Thanks. Mom always says a tidy space clears the mind."

As the uniforms dried, Jian Yu and Liang Zheng settled in for their study session. They spread out textbooks and notes on the coffee table, the warm glow of the table lamp illuminating their focused faces.

As they delved into their studies, Liang Zheng found himself drifting away from the textbooks. His gaze wandered to Jian Yu, whose brow furrowed in concentration.

Liang Zheng's eyes traced the contours of Jian Yu's face – the sharp jawline, the gentle curve of his nose, and the soft, parted lips.

Their eyes met.

Time froze.

Jian Yu's gaze, deep and intense, locked onto Liang Zheng's. A flutter danced in Liang Zheng's chest as he held Jian Yu's gaze.

The air thickened with unspoken emotions.

Liang Zheng's heart pounded, his pulse visible on his wrist.

Jian Yu's cheeks flushed, but he didn't look away.

The world around them melted, leaving only the two of them, suspended in this electric moment.

Suddenly, the lights flickered and died.

The room plunged into darkness.

"Ah!" Jian Yu exclaimed, startled.

Liang Zheng laughed softly. "Guess we needed a break."

The darkness enveloped them, and Liang Zheng heard Jian Yu's gentle laugh. "I guess we did need a break."

Liang Zheng smiled, his eyes adjusting to the darkness. "Want me to check the fuse box?"

"Yeah, please," Jian Yu replied.

As Liang Zheng stood up, his hand brushed against Jian Yu's. The spark was undeniable.

Liang Zheng made his way to the fuse box, his heart pounding. He flipped the switch, and the lights flickered back to life.

Jian Yu's eyes met Liang Zheng's, the tension between them palpable.

Just then, a loud knock at the door shattered the silence.

"Who could that be?" Jian Yu wondered.

Liang Zheng's eyes narrowed. "Want me to get it?"

Jian Yu nodded.

As Liang Zheng approached the door, the knocking grew more insistent.

Liang Zheng opened the door to reveal a delivery man holding a steaming hot food bag.

"Hello, sir. Your order from Happy Kitchen," the delivery man announced.

Liang Zheng smiled, taking the bag. "Thanks."

Jian Yu's eyes widened as Liang Zheng unveiled the spread: savory chicken, fragrant rice, and stir-fried vegetables.

"Wow, you ordered dinner!" Jian Yu exclaimed.

Liang Zheng chuckled. "Thought we deserved a break."

As they dug in, the flavors danced on their tongues.

After dinner, Jian Yu began pressing the iron to their school uniforms, the hiss of steam filling the air.

"I'll go take a shower," Liang Zheng said, disappearing into the bathroom.

The sound of running water created a soothing background hum.

Jian Yu's hands moved deftly, ironing out wrinkles.

Once done, he called out, "Your turn's up!"

Liang Zheng emerged, hair dripping, and passed Jian Yu a towel.

Jian Yu's shower was refreshing, washing away the day's stress.

As they changed into comfortable pajamas, the clock struck 10 PM.

Just then, the front door opened, and Mrs. Yu walked in, exhausted but smiling.

"Hey, boys! Sorry I'm late."

Jian Yu and Liang Zheng exchanged warm smiles.

"Hi, Mom," Jian Yu said, hugging her.

Liang Zheng greeted her with a respectful bow.

Mrs. Yu's eyes sparkled, taking in the tidy room and freshly ironed uniforms.

"You two have been busy. Thanks for taking care of things, Jian Yu."

Liang Zheng added, "We studied and had dinner together."

Mrs. Yu's expression softened. "That's wonderful. You're becoming like brothers."

As they chatted, the warmth and love in the room enveloped.

As they settled in for the night, the tension between them crackled like electricity.

Mrs. Yu bid them goodnight, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

"Sleep tight, boys. Love you."

"Love you too, Mom," Jian Yu replied.

Liang Zheng echoed the sentiment.

The door closed, and they were alone.

Their gazes met, the air thickening.

Without a word, Liang Zheng reached out, his fingers tracing Jian Yu's jawline.

Jian Yu's pulse quickened.

Their lips met in a tender, exploratory kiss.

The world around them melted.

Their hands roamed, discovering each other.

The room spun, leaving only the two of them.

As they broke apart for air, Liang Zheng's eyes blazed with desire.

"Jian Yu," he whispered.

"Yes?" Jian Yu replied.

Liang Zheng's lips claimed Jian Yu's again.

Their passion ignited.

As their lips parted, Liang Zheng's eyes burned with desire. He gently nudged Jian Yu toward the bed.

Jian Yu's heart raced, his pulse pounding in his neck. He felt Liang Zheng's warm breath on his skin.

Their bodies intertwined, hands exploring each other's contours.

Liang Zheng's fingers traced Jian Yu's abs, sending shivers down his spine.

Jian Yu's lips found Liang Zheng's neck, kissing softly.

Their love was a flame, burning brighter with every touch.

As they surrendered to their passion, the world outside melted away.

In this sanctuary, they were free to love.

Liang Zheng's fingers danced across Jian Yu's skin, sending shivers down his spine. Their lips met in a passionate kiss, tongues entwining.

Jian Yu's hands explored Liang Zheng's chest, tracing the contours of his muscles. Liang Zheng's touch ignited a fire within him.

As they undressed each other, their bodies intertwined, warm skin against warm skin.

Their love became a symphony of sighs, whispers, and tender moans.

In this sanctuary, they surrendered to their desires, lost in the beauty of their love.

After their loving and affectionate night, Liang Zheng and Jian Yu drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's arms. Their gentle snores filled the room, a soothing melody.

At 5:30 AM, Jin Yu returned home, exhausted from his night out. He opened the door to their room, expecting silence. Instead, he was met with a heartwarming sight: Liang and Jian Yu entwined, peaceful smiles on their faces.

Jin Yu's initial shock gave way to joy, seeing his brother so happy. He tiptoed to the bathroom to get ready for school, trying not to disturb them.

The alarm clock pierced the air, breaking the tranquility. Liang Zheng and Jian Yu woke up, still locked in a tender kiss. They were lost in their love, oblivious to Jin Yu's presence.

Just as they pulled back, Jin Yu emerged from the bathroom, startling them. They froze, faces flushed.

"Lucky bastards," Jin Yu teased, grinning.

Liang Zheng and Jian Yu exchanged sheepish glances, laughing.

"Morning," Liang Zheng said.

"Good morning," Jin Yu replied.

As Mrs. Yu busied herself in the kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air. Jian Yu and Liang Zheng seized the moment, slipping into the shower together.

Warm water cascaded down their entwined bodies, their hands exploring each other's contours. They savored the intimacy, their love shining brighter with each passing moment.

Meanwhile, Jin Yu emerged from his room, all dressed.

"Morning, Mom," Jin Yu said, heading to the kitchen.

"Good morning, sweetie!" Mrs. Yu replied. "Breakfast is almost ready."

"Time's running out, boys!" Mrs. Yu called out, her voice tinged with warmth. "Get a move on, or you'll be late!"

Jian Yu and Liang Zheng chuckled, knowing they had to hurry. They finished their shower, dressing quickly.

In the kitchen, Mrs. Yu had laid out a hearty breakfast spread: scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and toast. The boys devoured their meal, fueling up for the day ahead.

Jin Yu joined them, exchanging playful banter.

"Ready for another day of school?" Jin Yu asked.

"Ready," Jian Yu and Liang Zheng chimed in unison.

"Here, take these," Mrs. Yu said, handing each of them a carefully prepared lunch pack.

Inside, Jian Yu found his favorite chicken sandwich, carrot sticks, and a sweet note from Mrs. Yu.

"Love you, Mom," Jian Yu said, hugging her tight.

"Love you too, sweetie," Mrs. Yu replied.

Liang Zheng's lunch pack held similar treasures, along with a thoughtful message from Mrs. Yu.

"Thanks, Auntie," Liang Zheng said, smiling.

"Anytime, dear," Mrs. Yu replied.

Jin Yu received his lunch pack, grinning.

"Thanks, Mom!"

With lunch packs in hand, the three boys grabbed their backpacks and headed out the door.

"Have a great day, boys!" Mrs. Yu called after them.