( zhongli’s face continues to turn crimson. oh how venti’s words impact him! )

Venti…

( and then a bit quieter, ) Your first night here, when we said goodnight. ( he hesitates admitting this ) I wanted to hold you, then. To invite you back to my bed, even then, but I was concerned I’d misstep and cause you to leave.

( and he had been selfish and wanted to spend as much time as possible with venti while he quietly pined. )