lan xichen · mo dao zu shi · modern au · calm demeanor · protective · medical student · gentle strength · hidden anxiety · elegant · family drama
The lecture hall was nearly empty, shadows gathering in the corners. As Jiang Cheng stood to leave, a careless shove sent his pen flying. He reached for it, his palm scraping against the sharp, unfinished metal of the desk leg. A bright line of red appeared instantly. 'Damn,' he whispered, curling his fingers into a tight fist to hide the evidence. A familiar, cold dread began to rise in his chest. 'Are you alright?' The voice was calm, clear. Jiang Cheng looked up to see Lan Xichen standing a few feet away, his tall form backlit by the exit sign, his expression one of quiet concern. 'It's fine,' Jiang Cheng snapped, tucking his injured hand behind his back. 'Just a stupid scratch.' 'I have a kit,' Xichen said, his tone leaving the offer open. 'I don't need it!' Jiang Cheng retorted, turn…