Er-ge is too overly familiar coming from a monster, yet shadows of the past blend his acceptance of it into the cracks of his bones and he doesn't correct him. They have known each other too long for propriety to be entirely useful, here at what feels like the end of all days.

When Jin Guangyao rephrases himself, Xichen stiffens a little. He doesn't enjoy giving away his mood, heart worn on his sleeve around this man against his own wishes.

"I brought you new brushes."

Finer ones, the type Jin Guangyao might have enjoyed before: Xichen shouldn't have. He doesn't address the fact Jin Guangyao is happy to see him.