29. 'Agree'

*Qin Shan POV

The incident with Zhong Long - that total jerk. I was on my way to class early because I didn't want to get snowed on when he forcefully yanked me to the side as I was trying to enter the building. He then preceded to try to kiss me. Is this guy drunk or something. All his friends were jeering and cheering him on too. Absolutely disgusting.

I pushed him away the first time but he took hold of my chin and I couldn't control my anger. I slapped him - HARD - across my face while praying that someone could rescue me from this horrid situation. And just like that, he arrived.

Song Meng pulled me against him and I could feel that his skin was still feverish but scolding could wait until we got inside. There were lots of people who were astonished by the turn in the tide but I really just wanted to get into a hole and hide in it.

---third class---

It is art period now and Song Meng has joined me. I have begged him to go back to his dorm because even I can see that he is unwell. There are circles under his eyes and he is sweating but with chills.

"Meng. Please go get some rest." I try to use my softest must coaxing voice with him but he refuses to listen. I think he is upset with the incident earlier because every time I try to tell him to go he looks at me and says

"And let you get into trouble, I would rather be with you." This boy really knows how to make my heart beat fast. I am still worried though.

Our artwork is nearly finished. We still have a few more days before the deadline so I decided that we would just work on it at a snails pace. Small details can always be added to the big picture to make it even more beautiful.

Looking at the frosty gazebo and the icy flowers, I start to smile. This is a winter wonderland that I would always be happy in. A place where I could just be free.

"What are you smiling at now?" Song Meng's voice is clear without a hitch and it snaps me out of my thoughts. He looks amused but I am no pushover.

"You." I say and smile sweetly at him. He flushes red and looks away. 'Ha' I can't help but think.

"It looks perfect." Song Meng, still a little pink nods to the painting.

"I agree. It is definitely better than if I had to work by myself. Oh yeah! By the way, where in the world did you learn how to do art like this?" I ask and he raises his eyebrows.

"Being alive for as long as I have lends itself to a multitude of opportunities." His answer is simple, perfuntory but it still sends chills down my spine.

"Okie." I respond and flush as I look away. Thank goodness he doesn't notice.

After the period ends we walk together to the gazebo. I try to be slower than normal because Song Meng is still ill but my efforts are put to waste when he starts running towards the gazebo, I follow him and speed up.

"What is with all the hurry?" I ask a little breathlessly when we arrive. His pale skin has color due to the wind sting and it looks gorgeous.

"This is my favorite place. I like spending time with you." He looks me in the eyes and I can't hold the dark glance. I flush like a tomato and look down.

"I have to admit, it is probably my favorite place too now." I murmur looking out over the railing. The world around us is white and cold. It really seems like it is some fairytale land or a dream that I never want to wake up from.

"Good." His reply is short and leaves me with a thousand questions.

"What do you mean "GOOD"? He chuckles and shrugs, not giving an answer and also not permitting more questions. Hmph, he is a whole complex in his self sometimes.

I cross my arms over my chest and look out. I plan to give him the silent treatment so that he will answer me. As I look over the icy horizon, a suddenly warm air wraps around me.

"Are you cold?" His low voice is gentle and calm and so so hot. I shiver unintentionally.

"Not anymore." I respond not willing to look up and meet his eyes. I don't want him to see right through me and see the emotions that I feel. See the desire in my face. I feel like such a hypocrite. I was the one who hurt him and if I suddenly just confess to him now, it feels like I'm betraying him and myself.

My emotions are conflicting and I shiver uncontrollably once more. His embrace gets tighter and I feel that he buried his head into my hair. His warm breath on my neck makes me start to sweat a little bit. It also gives me clarity.

I know that deep inside my heart. With the warmth around me and the sweet air. I know that I have accepted him. I know that I want to be with Song Meng forever. I know that I am selfish, a heart breaker, but I also know that I want him. And I can no longer hide it from him anymore.

I pull out of his arms and turn around. My back is against the railing and I look into his eyes, not willing to shy away this time.

"Song Meng." His name in my voice is almost a whisper.

"Will you accept me now?" My voice is getting quieter and quieter and I see his eyes widen.

"Are you ready?" His deep voice is quiet too but somehow I still hear it.

I nod

"Yes."