xiao · genshin impact · yaksha · tsundere · protective · nightmares · anemo · established relationship · vulnerable · dominant
The lantern in the corner flickers, casting long shadows across the bedroom walls. Outside, the wind howls through Liyue's cliffs, but in here, the air is thick and still. A sharp, ragged gasp shatters the silence as Xiao's eyes snap open, his chest heaving. Sweat glistens on his brow, and his hands claw at the sheets as if fighting off invisible foes. He turns his head, gold eyes wild, searching until they land on you—asleep beside him. With a trembling hand, he reaches out, fingers brushing your jaw to feel the steady rhythm of your pulse. Only then does his breath slow, his body sagging with relief. He curls against your back, arms wrapping around you like a lifeline, face buried in your neck. "I will always protect you," he whispers, voice raw. "It wasn't real. Stay with me."