Achillean Game: C09

09: How Pitiful

This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

_{And despite his unwillingness to admit this, Bai Chen was terrified. Since the bet was made, he has been in a constant state of panic. He was like a vagrant who spent the past three days starving, all of a sudden being pushed into a five-star hotel and told to eat their fill.}
After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.

And despite his unwillingness to admit this, Bai Chen was terrified. Since the bet was made, he has been in a constant state of panic. He was like a vagrant who spent the past three days starving, all of a sudden being pushed into a five-star hotel and told to eat their fill.

_{Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.}N/A

Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.

_{He couldn't understand why Bai Chen would give him such a chance of his own volition. It was his first time feeling so powerless. He had no idea what Bai Chen was thinking. He had no idea what Bai Chen wanted. He couldn't, for the life of him, understand why Bai Chen agreed to that bet. Chi Shang only thought at that moment that he truly had no understanding of this person.}So from then on, in his third year, Bai Chen restrained himself—warned himself—to not be impulsive nor to do anything to scare him away. But now it was a different story; he could no longer hold himself back.

He couldn't understand why Bai Chen would give him such a chance of his own volition. It was his first time feeling so powerless. He had no idea what Bai Chen was thinking. He had no idea what Bai Chen wanted. He couldn't, for the life of him, understand why Bai Chen agreed to that bet. Chi Shang only thought at that moment that he truly had no understanding of this person.

_{So from then on, in his third year, Bai Chen restrained himself—warned himself—to not be impulsive nor to do anything to scare him away. But now it was a different story; he could no longer hold himself back.}"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."

So from then on, in his third year, Bai Chen restrained himself—warned himself—to not be impulsive nor to do anything to scare him away. But now it was a different story; he could no longer hold himself back.

_{But Chi Shang was left completely dazzled by this beaming smile from Bai Chen. He tried to cover it up after a few seconds, resting his head under his chin as if he were thinking. Then, after doing so a few times, he got up and shot his arrow.}
"Hey, boyfriend. Want us to have a little match?"

But Chi Shang was left completely dazzled by this beaming smile from Bai Chen. He tried to cover it up after a few seconds, resting his head under his chin as if he were thinking. Then, after doing so a few times, he got up and shot his arrow.

_{Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.}09: How Pitiful

Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.

_{With his head lowered, Chi Shang remained silent for a moment, then, when he lifted it once more, he noticed Bai Chen had kept his eyes on him the entire time. Within those hazel eyes was a hazy glow that glimmered, causing Chi Shang to be immediately struck by the thought that it seemed he had never truly understood Bai Chen.}Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

With his head lowered, Chi Shang remained silent for a moment, then, when he lifted it once more, he noticed Bai Chen had kept his eyes on him the entire time. Within those hazel eyes was a hazy glow that glimmered, causing Chi Shang to be immediately struck by the thought that it seemed he had never truly understood Bai Chen.

_{Chi Shang had told him, "Hi, I'm your new deskmate. My name's Chi Shang."}"What are you planning to wager?"

Chi Shang had told him, "Hi, I'm your new deskmate. My name's Chi Shang."

_{Bai Chen's lips curled into a grin. He then readied his posture beside Chi Shang before squinting his left eye and shooting his shot.}
Chi Shang's flushed expression slowly faded, and after hearing Bai Chen mention a match, his competitive spirit kicked in.

Bai Chen's lips curled into a grin. He then readied his posture beside Chi Shang before squinting his left eye and shooting his shot.

_{But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.}"This time, are you going to come first?"

But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

_{After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.}After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.

After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.

_{Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.}It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition. As he stood on that stage, looking down at the stern-faced, suit-clad adults making up the audience, the little Chi Shang from back then even nervously trembled. But when he had begun delivering his speech, he displayed a level of calm and composure that should not be possible at his age.

Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

_{He wasn't one to deny his own psychological shortcomings; to him, his incompleteness and brokenness were simple facts. He has been made aware of these faults since he was born by his family. He was told he was missing a puzzle piece, and he was likely going to go through his entire life without ever finding it.}
"What kind of match?"

He wasn't one to deny his own psychological shortcomings; to him, his incompleteness and brokenness were simple facts. He has been made aware of these faults since he was born by his family. He was told he was missing a puzzle piece, and he was likely going to go through his entire life without ever finding it.

_{"What kind of match?"}
Bai Chen pulled out ten arrows and handed them to Chi Shang at his question, then pointed to the target in front of them both.

"What kind of match?"

_{Chi Shang's flushed expression slowly faded, and after hearing Bai Chen mention a match, his competitive spirit kicked in.}Upon hearing his words, Chi Shang calculated the score they both had in this current round and reluctantly rubbed his hair.

Chi Shang's flushed expression slowly faded, and after hearing Bai Chen mention a match, his competitive spirit kicked in.

_{After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.}
"Ten shots per person, and whoever gets the most bullseyes in the end wins."

After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.

_{The thing is, when a person who has nothing wins a prize, the first thing they feel right after isn't joy, but fear.}
Chi Shang picked up an arrow, eagerly stringing it, already planning to begin.

The thing is, when a person who has nothing wins a prize, the first thing they feel right after isn't joy, but fear.

_N/ABut destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

N/A

_{With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.}It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition. As he stood on that stage, looking down at the stern-faced, suit-clad adults making up the audience, the little Chi Shang from back then even nervously trembled. But when he had begun delivering his speech, he displayed a level of calm and composure that should not be possible at his age.

With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.

_{In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:}And after Bai Chen had returned home that day, he tore up every wicked plan he had concocted. He replayed that smile of Chi Shang's in his head over and over again. He couldn't help it; he couldn't help but think that when Chi Shang smiled, he was beautiful beyond belief.

In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:

_{"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."}
Bai Chen was amused at his eagerness but quickly reached out to stop him, his head tilted to the side as a smile played on the corners of his lips.

"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."

_{"Ten shots per person, and whoever gets the most bullseyes in the end wins."}
"But since it is a match, we should make it a bit exciting, shouldn't we?"

"Ten shots per person, and whoever gets the most bullseyes in the end wins."

_{"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."}They would wonder why they won if such a thing was really possible for a person like them. And the moment that prize is placed in their hands, it becomes nothing but a hot potato that stings.

"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."

_{It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition.}Ten points.

It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition. As he stood on that stage, looking down at the stern-faced, suit-clad adults making up the audience, the little Chi Shang from back then even nervously trembled. But when he had begun delivering his speech, he displayed a level of calm and composure that should not be possible at his age.

_{{Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.}}During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.

_{Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.}
Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.

_{Ten points.}Bai Chen's lips curled into a grin. He then readied his posture beside Chi Shang before squinting his left eye and shooting his shot.

Ten points.

_{Bai Chen now rested his chin on Chi Shang's shoulder, the look on his face dark and unclear. His hazel eyes were deep, to the point they were terrifying, as he looked into the distance and spoke with a hoarse voice.}Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

Bai Chen now rested his chin on Chi Shang's shoulder, the look on his face dark and unclear. His hazel eyes were deep, to the point they were terrifying, as he looked into the distance and spoke with a hoarse voice.

_{"What are you planning to wager?"}
"What are you planning to wager?"

"What are you planning to wager?"

_{When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.}"This time, are you going to come first?"

When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

_{Chi Shang was the kind of person who did whatever came to his mind, and currently, his lack of understanding towards Bai Chen was the issue occupying his thoughts. He believed he would find a way in the future to know the true Bai Chen, and the first opportunity to do so has appeared right now.}
Bai Chen was still smiling at his question, but that smile now held a meaning that was far more deep. It caused the corners of his lips to tilt downward ever so slightly, creating an expression on his face that Chi Shang had honestly never seen.

Chi Shang was the kind of person who did whatever came to his mind, and currently, his lack of understanding towards Bai Chen was the issue occupying his thoughts. He believed he would find a way in the future to know the true Bai Chen, and the first opportunity to do so has appeared right now.

_{"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."}And after Bai Chen had returned home that day, he tore up every wicked plan he had concocted. He replayed that smile of Chi Shang's in his head over and over again. He couldn't help it; he couldn't help but think that when Chi Shang smiled, he was beautiful beyond belief.

"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."

_{"Fine. I accept."}Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

"Fine. I accept."

_{He had no thoughts of hurting Chi Shang, and even such a thought made his heart sting and ache. So, at this very moment, he was willing to give Chi Shang a chance. A chance for him to choose to leave him.}
In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:

He had no thoughts of hurting Chi Shang, and even such a thought made his heart sting and ache. So, at this very moment, he was willing to give Chi Shang a chance. A chance for him to choose to leave him.

_{Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.}
"That whoever wins gets to request something from the other."

Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.

_{"That whoever wins gets to request something from the other."}
Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

"That whoever wins gets to request something from the other."

_{It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition.}Ten points.

They would wonder why they won if such a thing was really possible for a person like them. And the moment that prize is placed in their hands, it becomes nothing but a hot potato that stings.

_{"What kind of match?"}"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."

"What kind of match?"

_{Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?}Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?

Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?

_{When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.}After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.

When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

_{Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.}
Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.

Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.

_{After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.}N/A

After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.

_{"What kind of match?"}And despite his unwillingness to admit this, Bai Chen was terrified. Since the bet was made, he has been in a constant state of panic. He was like a vagrant who spent the past three days starving, all of a sudden being pushed into a five-star hotel and told to eat their fill.

"What kind of match?"

_{Bai Chen was still smiling at his question, but that smile now held a meaning that was far more deep. It caused the corners of his lips to tilt downward ever so slightly, creating an expression on his face that Chi Shang had honestly never seen.}
With his head lowered, Chi Shang remained silent for a moment, then, when he lifted it once more, he noticed Bai Chen had kept his eyes on him the entire time. Within those hazel eyes was a hazy glow that glimmered, causing Chi Shang to be immediately struck by the thought that it seemed he had never truly understood Bai Chen.

Bai Chen was still smiling at his question, but that smile now held a meaning that was far more deep. It caused the corners of his lips to tilt downward ever so slightly, creating an expression on his face that Chi Shang had honestly never seen.

_{In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:}"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."

In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:

_{The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.}"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."

The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.

_{Pinching Bai Chen by the chin, he forced that guy to face him. And seeing it was a force that was not to be refused, Bai Chen's lifted head complied.}
"Fine. I accept."

Pinching Bai Chen by the chin, he forced that guy to face him. And seeing it was a force that was not to be refused, Bai Chen's lifted head complied.

_{With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.}Bai Chen was amused at his eagerness but quickly reached out to stop him, his head tilted to the side as a smile played on the corners of his lips.

With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.

Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

_{"Boyfriend, it really does look as though we're very well-matched."}Pinching Bai Chen by the chin, he forced that guy to face him. And seeing it was a force that was not to be refused, Bai Chen's lifted head complied.

"Boyfriend, it really does look as though we're very well-matched."

_{After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.}
Chi Shang was the kind of person who did whatever came to his mind, and currently, his lack of understanding towards Bai Chen was the issue occupying his thoughts. He believed he would find a way in the future to know the true Bai Chen, and the first opportunity to do so has appeared right now.

After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.

_{Ten points.}The thing is, when a person who has nothing wins a prize, the first thing they feel right after isn't joy, but fear.

Ten points.

_{They would wonder why they won if such a thing was really possible for a person like them. And the moment that prize is placed in their hands, it becomes nothing but a hot potato that stings.}Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

They would wonder why they won if such a thing was really possible for a person like them. And the moment that prize is placed in their hands, it becomes nothing but a hot potato that stings.

_{After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.}With his head lowered, Chi Shang remained silent for a moment, then, when he lifted it once more, he noticed Bai Chen had kept his eyes on him the entire time. Within those hazel eyes was a hazy glow that glimmered, causing Chi Shang to be immediately struck by the thought that it seemed he had never truly understood Bai Chen.

After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.

_{Ten points.}
Bai Chen's lips curled into a grin. He then readied his posture beside Chi Shang before squinting his left eye and shooting his shot.

Ten points.

_{Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.}
Ten points.

Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.

_{After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.}Upon hearing his words, Chi Shang calculated the score they both had in this current round and reluctantly rubbed his hair.

After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.

_{Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.}
Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.

_{With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.}He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.

With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.

_{Bai Chen then lowered his bow, flashing the most brilliant of smiles at Chi Shang, looking at him with eyes curved like the moon.}During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

Bai Chen then lowered his bow, flashing the most brilliant of smiles at Chi Shang, looking at him with eyes curved like the moon.

_{Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.}The date hung over him like a grim reaper's sickle, day in and day out, waiting patiently until the moment of reckoning when it would mercilessly swing.

Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.

_{Bai Chen was amused at his eagerness but quickly reached out to stop him, his head tilted to the side as a smile played on the corners of his lips.}
Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.

Bai Chen was amused at his eagerness but quickly reached out to stop him, his head tilted to the side as a smile played on the corners of his lips.

_{Bai Chen was amused at his eagerness but quickly reached out to stop him, his head tilted to the side as a smile played on the corners of his lips.}With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.

Bai Chen was amused at his eagerness but quickly reached out to stop him, his head tilted to the side as a smile played on the corners of his lips.

_{That little Chi Shang had completed his speech perfectly, and since then, Chi Shang had never experienced such a level of anxiety again. Yet now, because of Bai Chen, he was feeling such emotions once more.}Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

That little Chi Shang had completed his speech perfectly, and since then, Chi Shang had never experienced such a level of anxiety again. Yet now, because of Bai Chen, he was feeling such emotions once more.

_{Like this, Bai Chen closed his eyes and immersed himself in that darkness, thinking that such a place did not seem so scary any more.}Bai Chen now rested his chin on Chi Shang's shoulder, the look on his face dark and unclear. His hazel eyes were deep, to the point they were terrifying, as he looked into the distance and spoke with a hoarse voice.

Like this, Bai Chen closed his eyes and immersed himself in that darkness, thinking that such a place did not seem so scary any more.

_{With his head lowered, Chi Shang remained silent for a moment, then, when he lifted it once more, he noticed Bai Chen had kept his eyes on him the entire time. Within those hazel eyes was a hazy glow that glimmered, causing Chi Shang to be immediately struck by the thought that it seemed he had never truly understood Bai Chen.}
Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.

_{Day and night, they had yearned for this prize, which was enough to change their life. But they would also be fearful that it was nothing but a dream. They feared they would wake up eventually and be hit with the fact that none of it was real.}Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.

Day and night, they had yearned for this prize, which was enough to change their life. But they would also be fearful that it was nothing but a dream. They feared they would wake up eventually and be hit with the fact that none of it was real.

_{That's right, it's just heart palpitations—that's all.}
Ten points.

That's right, it's just heart palpitations—that's all.

With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.

_{He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.}
Chi Shang swallowed a deep breath after shooting, curious as to why he was suddenly overtaken by nerves. He had handled something as stressful as the college entrance exams with ease, so why was he feeling heart palpitations he rarely experienced now of all times?

He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.

_{He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.}Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

_{After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.}"Ten shots per person, and whoever gets the most bullseyes in the end wins."

After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.

_{Bai Chen pulled out ten arrows and handed them to Chi Shang at his question, then pointed to the target in front of them both.}
That's right, it's just heart palpitations—that's all.

Bai Chen pulled out ten arrows and handed them to Chi Shang at his question, then pointed to the target in front of them both.

_{But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.}Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

_{Before, the darkness and the desolation were all things he could have endured. But he had gotten a taste of the dazzling radiance he had long desired now, so how could he bear to willingly crawl back to that damp and mucky quagmire he had called home?}
It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition. As he stood on that stage, looking down at the stern-faced, suit-clad adults making up the audience, the little Chi Shang from back then even nervously trembled. But when he had begun delivering his speech, he displayed a level of calm and composure that should not be possible at his age.

Before, the darkness and the desolation were all things he could have endured. But he had gotten a taste of the dazzling radiance he had long desired now, so how could he bear to willingly crawl back to that damp and mucky quagmire he had called home?

_{Chi Shang swallowed a deep breath after shooting, curious as to why he was suddenly overtaken by nerves. He had handled something as stressful as the college entrance exams with ease, so why was he feeling heart palpitations he rarely experienced now of all times?}
That little Chi Shang had completed his speech perfectly, and since then, Chi Shang had never experienced such a level of anxiety again. Yet now, because of Bai Chen, he was feeling such emotions once more.

Chi Shang swallowed a deep breath after shooting, curious as to why he was suddenly overtaken by nerves. He had handled something as stressful as the college entrance exams with ease, so why was he feeling heart palpitations he rarely experienced now of all times?

_{Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.}Bai Chen's lips curled into a grin. He then readied his posture beside Chi Shang before squinting his left eye and shooting his shot.

Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

_{"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."}
The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.

"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."

_{"What are you planning to wager?"}After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.

"What are you planning to wager?"

_{{Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.}}Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.

Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.

_{Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.}
After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.

Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

_{When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.}Day and night, they had yearned for this prize, which was enough to change their life. But they would also be fearful that it was nothing but a dream. They feared they would wake up eventually and be hit with the fact that none of it was real.

When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

_{Chi Shang picked up an arrow, eagerly stringing it, already planning to begin.}
"Boyfriend, it really does look as though we're very well-matched."

Chi Shang picked up an arrow, eagerly stringing it, already planning to begin.

_{"Ten shots per person, and whoever gets the most bullseyes in the end wins."}And despite his unwillingness to admit this, Bai Chen was terrified. Since the bet was made, he has been in a constant state of panic. He was like a vagrant who spent the past three days starving, all of a sudden being pushed into a five-star hotel and told to eat their fill.

"Ten shots per person, and whoever gets the most bullseyes in the end wins."

_N/AHe planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.

N/A

_{"Boyfriend, it really does look as though we're very well-matched."}
Upon hearing his words, Chi Shang calculated the score they both had in this current round and reluctantly rubbed his hair.

"Boyfriend, it really does look as though we're very well-matched."

_{So from then on, in his third year, Bai Chen restrained himself—warned himself—to not be impulsive nor to do anything to scare him away. But now it was a different story; he could no longer hold himself back.}Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?

_{"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."}09: How Pitiful

"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."

_{The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.}
Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.

The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.

_{Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.}Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

_{Ten points.}"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."

Ten points.

_{When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.}
Bai Chen then lowered his bow, flashing the most brilliant of smiles at Chi Shang, looking at him with eyes curved like the moon.

When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

_{Ten points.}
"This time, are you going to come first?"

Ten points.

_{Chi Shang had told him, "Hi, I'm your new deskmate. My name's Chi Shang."}
But Chi Shang was left completely dazzled by this beaming smile from Bai Chen. He tried to cover it up after a few seconds, resting his head under his chin as if he were thinking. Then, after doing so a few times, he got up and shot his arrow.

Chi Shang had told him, "Hi, I'm your new deskmate. My name's Chi Shang."

_{Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.}Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

_{But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.}During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

_{And after Bai Chen had returned home that day, he tore up every wicked plan he had concocted. He replayed that smile of Chi Shang's in his head over and over again. He couldn't help it; he couldn't help but think that when Chi Shang smiled, he was beautiful beyond belief.}
Ten points.

And after Bai Chen had returned home that day, he tore up every wicked plan he had concocted. He replayed that smile of Chi Shang's in his head over and over again. He couldn't help it; he couldn't help but think that when Chi Shang smiled, he was beautiful beyond belief.

_{Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.}After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.

Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

_{Chi Shang's flushed expression slowly faded, and after hearing Bai Chen mention a match, his competitive spirit kicked in.}
Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.

Chi Shang's flushed expression slowly faded, and after hearing Bai Chen mention a match, his competitive spirit kicked in.

_{"Bai... Bai Chen?"}
"Bai... Bai Chen?"

"Bai... Bai Chen?"

_N/A
Bai Chen now rested his chin on Chi Shang's shoulder, the look on his face dark and unclear. His hazel eyes were deep, to the point they were terrifying, as he looked into the distance and spoke with a hoarse voice.

N/A

_{{That's right, it's just heart palpitations—that's all.}}Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

That's right, it's just heart palpitations—that's all.

_{He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.}Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

_{"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."}Ten points.

"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."

_{The date hung over him like a grim reaper's sickle, day in and day out, waiting patiently until the moment of reckoning when it would mercilessly swing.}
"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."

The date hung over him like a grim reaper's sickle, day in and day out, waiting patiently until the moment of reckoning when it would mercilessly swing.

_{Ten points.}The thing is, when a person who has nothing wins a prize, the first thing they feel right after isn't joy, but fear.

Ten points.

Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

_{After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.}
"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."

After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.

_{Ten points.}Chi Shang then calmed his mind. He took hold of the arrow and string between his fingers without thinking, then drew his arrow into an arch.

Ten points.

_{Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.}Ten points.

Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.

_{Ten points.}
Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

Ten points.

_{"But since it is a match, we should make it a bit exciting, shouldn't we?"}
He couldn't understand why Bai Chen would give him such a chance of his own volition. It was his first time feeling so powerless. He had no idea what Bai Chen was thinking. He had no idea what Bai Chen wanted. He couldn't, for the life of him, understand why Bai Chen agreed to that bet. Chi Shang only thought at that moment that he truly had no understanding of this person.

"But since it is a match, we should make it a bit exciting, shouldn't we?"

_{Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.}After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.

Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

_{The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.}"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."

The long-forgotten feeling had made Chi Shang slightly tremble, while his chеst radiated with a rarely felt trill.

_{Upon hearing his words, Chi Shang calculated the score they both had in this current round and reluctantly rubbed his hair.}
Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.

Upon hearing his words, Chi Shang calculated the score they both had in this current round and reluctantly rubbed his hair.

_{"This time, are you going to come first?"}
And despite his unwillingness to admit this, Bai Chen was terrified. Since the bet was made, he has been in a constant state of panic. He was like a vagrant who spent the past three days starving, all of a sudden being pushed into a five-star hotel and told to eat their fill.

"This time, are you going to come first?"

_{During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.}After seeing that Chi Shang was not completely relaxed, Bai Chen released his arms and turned to go pick up his own bow.

During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

_{Day and night, they had yearned for this prize, which was enough to change their life. But they would also be fearful that it was nothing but a dream. They feared they would wake up eventually and be hit with the fact that none of it was real.}
The thing is, when a person who has nothing wins a prize, the first thing they feel right after isn't joy, but fear.

_{Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.}Chi Shang thought over his suggestion, then nodded with a face that had written on it: A competition should have some rewards.

Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

_{Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.}
They would wonder why they won if such a thing was really possible for a person like them. And the moment that prize is placed in their hands, it becomes nothing but a hot potato that stings.

Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

_{Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.}The date hung over him like a grim reaper's sickle, day in and day out, waiting patiently until the moment of reckoning when it would mercilessly swing.

Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.

_{"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."}Damn it. We're both at eighty-five points.

"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."

_{Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.}
Day and night, they had yearned for this prize, which was enough to change their life. But they would also be fearful that it was nothing but a dream. They feared they would wake up eventually and be hit with the fact that none of it was real.

Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

_{Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.}
When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.

_{That little Chi Shang had completed his speech perfectly, and since then, Chi Shang had never experienced such a level of anxiety again. Yet now, because of Bai Chen, he was feeling such emotions once more.}
The date hung over him like a grim reaper's sickle, day in and day out, waiting patiently until the moment of reckoning when it would mercilessly swing.

_{He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.}Before, the darkness and the desolation were all things he could have endured. But he had gotten a taste of the dazzling radiance he had long desired now, so how could he bear to willingly crawl back to that damp and mucky quagmire he had called home?

_{Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.}Bai Chen then lowered his bow, flashing the most brilliant of smiles at Chi Shang, looking at him with eyes curved like the moon.

Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.

_{"This time, are you going to come first?"}He wasn't one to deny his own psychological shortcomings; to him, his incompleteness and brokenness were simple facts. He has been made aware of these faults since he was born by his family. He was told he was missing a puzzle piece, and he was likely going to go through his entire life without ever finding it.

"This time, are you going to come first?"

_{"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."}
Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?

"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."

_{After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.}
He wasn't one to deny his own psychological shortcomings; to him, his incompleteness and brokenness were simple facts. He has been made aware of these faults since he was born by his family. He was told he was missing a puzzle piece, and he was likely going to go through his entire life without ever finding it.

After the ninth arrow was shot, Bai Chen broke the strange atmosphere by bursting out in a laugh.

_{After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.}"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."

After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.

_{It was no big deal. It was no different than when he had to represent his elementary school at a city-wide public speaking competition.}
But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

_{When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.}Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

_{Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?}
During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?

_{It was an afternoon Bai Chen had engraved in his memories forever, one where Chi Shang had walked towards him against the blinding light. There was a faint smile hanging on his lips, his round eyes curving in tandem, while hints of joy clung to the clear and melodious tune that was his voice.}
He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.

It was an afternoon Bai Chen had engraved in his memories forever, one where Chi Shang had walked towards him against the blinding light. There was a faint smile hanging on his lips, his round eyes curving in tandem, while hints of joy clung to the clear and melodious tune that was his voice.

_N/A
It was an afternoon Bai Chen had engraved in his memories forever, one where Chi Shang had walked towards him against the blinding light. There was a faint smile hanging on his lips, his round eyes curving in tandem, while hints of joy clung to the clear and melodious tune that was his voice.

N/A

_{"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."}The thing is, when a person who has nothing wins a prize, the first thing they feel right after isn't joy, but fear.

"Whatever you demand, you can always ask it of me."

_{"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."}09: How Pitiful

"Boyfriend, it's your turn now."

_{During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.}The date hung over him like a grim reaper's sickle, day in and day out, waiting patiently until the moment of reckoning when it would mercilessly swing.

During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

_{Bai Chen then lowered his bow, flashing the most brilliant of smiles at Chi Shang, looking at him with eyes curved like the moon.}
Chi Shang had told him, "Hi, I'm your new deskmate. My name's Chi Shang."

Bai Chen then lowered his bow, flashing the most brilliant of smiles at Chi Shang, looking at him with eyes curved like the moon.

_{In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:}
And after Bai Chen had returned home that day, he tore up every wicked plan he had concocted. He replayed that smile of Chi Shang's in his head over and over again. He couldn't help it; he couldn't help but think that when Chi Shang smiled, he was beautiful beyond belief.

In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:

_{"Fine. I accept."}
So from then on, in his third year, Bai Chen restrained himself—warned himself—to not be impulsive nor to do anything to scare him away. But now it was a different story; he could no longer hold himself back.

"Fine. I accept."

_{He couldn't understand why Bai Chen would give him such a chance of his own volition. It was his first time feeling so powerless. He had no idea what Bai Chen was thinking. He had no idea what Bai Chen wanted. He couldn't, for the life of him, understand why Bai Chen agreed to that bet. Chi Shang only thought at that moment that he truly had no understanding of this person.}When Bai Chen looked at his calendar on the table, the turn of each new page sliced through his heart like a knife.

_{In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:}Bai Chen's lips curled into a grin. He then readied his posture beside Chi Shang before squinting his left eye and shooting his shot.

In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:

_{"Hey, boyfriend. Want us to have a little match?"}
Before, the darkness and the desolation were all things he could have endured. But he had gotten a taste of the dazzling radiance he had long desired now, so how could he bear to willingly crawl back to that damp and mucky quagmire he had called home?

"Hey, boyfriend. Want us to have a little match?"

_{"Fine. I accept."}So from then on, in his third year, Bai Chen restrained himself—warned himself—to not be impulsive nor to do anything to scare him away. But now it was a different story; he could no longer hold himself back.

"Fine. I accept."

_{Like this, Bai Chen closed his eyes and immersed himself in that darkness, thinking that such a place did not seem so scary any more.}
He had no thoughts of hurting Chi Shang, and even such a thought made his heart sting and ache. So, at this very moment, he was willing to give Chi Shang a chance. A chance for him to choose to leave him.

Like this, Bai Chen closed his eyes and immersed himself in that darkness, thinking that such a place did not seem so scary any more.

_{Day and night, they had yearned for this prize, which was enough to change their life. But they would also be fearful that it was nothing but a dream. They feared they would wake up eventually and be hit with the fact that none of it was real.}Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.

_{Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.}
After Chi Shang returned to his senses, he felt his shoulder was moist. In an instant, he came to the realisation that Bai Chen was shedding tears.

Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

_{"This time, are you going to come first?"}Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.

"This time, are you going to come first?"

_{"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."}Chi Shang had told him, "Hi, I'm your new deskmate. My name's Chi Shang."

"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."

_{"So, how about that, boyfriend? Do you accept?"}
Pinching Bai Chen by the chin, he forced that guy to face him. And seeing it was a force that was not to be refused, Bai Chen's lifted head complied.

"So, how about that, boyfriend? Do you accept?"

_{Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.}But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

Chi Shang was already stunned while in Bai Chen's arms, completely bewildered.

_{In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:}Bai Chen could not help but think there was no way he could let Chi Shang go in this life. But what if Chi Shang was the one who wanted to leave him? What was he going to do, then?

In a voice more husky than usual, and with a tone that was quite low, Bai Chen then replied:

_{Bai Chen now rested his chin on Chi Shang's shoulder, the look on his face dark and unclear. His hazel eyes were deep, to the point they were terrifying, as he looked into the distance and spoke with a hoarse voice.}
With a blank look painted on his features, Bai Chen stared at Chi Shang. It seemed as though he had no awareness of his current disordered state, as all he did was gaze at Chi Shang in a daze.

_{But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.}
After a sigh, Chi Shang gently wiped the wetness from the corners of Bai Chen's eyes, then lowered his head to place a kiss upon those eyes, reflecting nothing but his visage.

But destiny had bestowed him with its favour, and the first time he laid eyes on Chi Shang, he knew he had found it—he had found the missing piece he had lost.

_{"Bai... Bai Chen?"}Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.

"Bai... Bai Chen?"

_{He had no thoughts of hurting Chi Shang, and even such a thought made his heart sting and ache. So, at this very moment, he was willing to give Chi Shang a chance. A chance for him to choose to leave him.}He had no thoughts of hurting Chi Shang, and even such a thought made his heart sting and ache. So, at this very moment, he was willing to give Chi Shang a chance. A chance for him to choose to leave him.

_{"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."}
"What a pitiful boyfriend you are. Just look at how red your eyes have gotten."

"Chi Shang, I'm giving you this chance."

_{Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.}Before Chi Shang could react, Bai Chen pulled him into his embrace. He encircled Chi Shang's waist tightly while pressing his face against his chеst.

Not for any other reason in particular, just for him to understand what Bai Chen was up to. So he needed to win this match. He did not want to lose.

_{"This time, are you going to come first?"}Ten points.

"This time, are you going to come first?"

_{Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.}That's right, it's just heart palpitations—that's all.

Bai Chen saw the hesitance and worry in Chi Shang's eyes, but he was unwilling to pull back. Chi Shang had to agree.

_{During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.}
Like this, Bai Chen closed his eyes and immersed himself in that darkness, thinking that such a place did not seem so scary any more.

During those three years at high school, he had countless thoughts of the myriad of ways he could tie up Chi Shang and lock him up somewhere where they could be alone.

_{Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.}He wasn't one to deny his own psychological shortcomings; to him, his incompleteness and brokenness were simple facts. He has been made aware of these faults since he was born by his family. He was told he was missing a puzzle piece, and he was likely going to go through his entire life without ever finding it.

Chi Shang still couldn't figure out what Bai Chen was planning to do. But, regardless, this was a competition he still had no interest in losing; he needed to win the condition they set.

_{He planned, schemed, and plotted like a pervert. Over time, those dark seeds of his had grown into towering trees. Then, of all the things that could happen, Chi Shang walked into this world of his all on his own.}He wasn't one to deny his own psychological shortcomings; to him, his incompleteness and brokenness were simple facts. He has been made aware of these faults since he was born by his family. He was told he was missing a puzzle piece, and he was likely going to go through his entire life without ever finding it.

_{Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.}Chi Shang froze for a moment. He didn't expect Bai Chen to propose such a wager, and he had a strong inkling that if Bai Chen won, whatever he requested would be hаrd for him to bear.

Bai Chen still clutched Chi Shang tightly in his arms, a bitter smile hanging on his lips. He thought Chi Shang would probably think he had lost his mind at this point.

Author's Note:

N/A

Notes:

N/A

Achillean Game: C09

09: How Pitiful

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Notes:

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