The sudden loss of tension concerns him and he hurries in his task, dressing swiftly, tying the fabric closed around his waist. His gaze never leaves Wei Ying and he can sense the danger before the other man turns to the door. He is in motion in the blink of an eye, his arms slipping around Wei Ying's waist, holding his back against his chest. His heart is beating so hard that he is sure it can be felt, but he doesn't try to hide it.

"Stay with me."

Lan Zhan fears what will become of Wei Ying if he walks out of that door. He has already convinced himself of so much and fallen further than any Cultivator ever has, but he will never give up hope.

"Wei Ying..." he breathes against the other man's ear, "Stay."

This time, the word is an open, unashamed plea.