Category: Can We Get Married First? 

Chapter 70

“So Tan Luo used information about Wei Zhuoning as bait to get you to meet her?” Chi Lin asked.

“That was her tactic. I was so focused on Zhuoning that I didn’t think much of it. Back then, she was just an online friend.”

Their first meeting was at a trendy cafe. Tan Luo had already ordered Lin Xiaozhi’s favorite waffles and hot chocolate.

“Are you cold? Have some hot chocolate to warm up.” Tan Luo had draped her coat over a chair, her white suit jacket sleeves rolled up, revealing elegant wrists adorned with a luxury bracelet.

Tan Luo’s first impression was impeccable: a thoughtful and sophisticated older sister. Lin Xiaozhi had almost worn the same bracelet, a birthday gift from her mother last month. Good thing I didn’t, she thought, that would have been awkward.

Throughout their meeting, Lin Xiaozhi listened intently as Tan Luo shared stories about Wei Zhuoning’s family, even showing her a childhood photo.

“So cute…” Lin Xiaozhi stared at the picture on Tan Luo’s phone.

Wei Zhuoning, around seven or eight years old, posed with her mother and other factory workers. She wore yellow overalls, her hair about the same length as now, a small beret perched on her head, her hands behind her back, her dark eyes bright, a small frown on her face, her “pretend fierceness” identical to her current expression.

It was a miniature Wei Zhuoning! A hundred times more delightful than the desserts before her!

Lin Xiaozhi’s heart fluttered, but she maintained her composure. “Can you send me this picture?”

“Of course,” Tan Luo smiled, her eyes crinkling. “Seeing how much you like it, maybe I can get you more next time we meet.”

Thus began their second, third… and subsequent meetings.

Tan Luo didn’t always have new photos, but she never disappointed Lin Xiaozhi, always having some anecdote about Wei Zhuoning, from childhood to present. A gifted storyteller, she could make even the most mundane details sound captivating.

Each story hit Lin Xiaozhi’s weak spot, making her crave more.

Feigning exasperation, Tan Luo would say, “I’d love to tell you more, but that’s all I know. I can’t just make things up, can I? Don’t worry, I’ll ask around for you.”

At the time, Tan Luo seemed like an angel, so considerate, that Lin Xiaozhi felt slightly guilty. “Is this too much trouble for you?”

“Not at all. Don’t be so formal.” Seeing Lin Xiaozhi’s silence, Tan Luo added, “I’ve never had many friends. I’m a bit… picky. Don’t laugh, but there aren’t many people I find interesting, whether classmates or relatives. I like people who are intelligent and good-looking. Is that too shallow? Well, I’m afraid I am. Honestly, not many people meet both criteria. Xiao Zhi, you’re different. You have so much more to offer. If you weren’t already interested in someone else, I would definitely pursue you.”

Lin Xiaozhi had heard countless compliments and confessions throughout her life. She was immune to flattery. Her heart remained firmly set on Wei Zhuoning.

Unaware of Tan Luo’s true nature, blinded by her sophisticated charm, Lin Xiaozhi simply found her words a bit… much. But who didn’t enjoy being praised by a beautiful person?

Looking back, Lin Xiaozhi felt foolish for never questioning the veracity of Tan Luo’s stories.

Chi Lin: “So everything about Zhuoning was just bait? All lies?”

Lin Xiaozhi: “Based on what I know now, at least eighty percent of it was fabricated.”

Chi Lin nodded slowly, looking at Lin Xiaozhi thoughtfully. So even the clever class president can be fooled.

Lin Xiaozhi knew what she was thinking. “I was only fourteen, almost fifteen, back then. Everyone makes mistakes. I’ve matured a lot since then, thanks to her.” Though she hated to admit it, Tan Luo had played a role in shaping her personality.

After a few meetings, besides expressing her admiration, Tan Luo started catering to Lin Xiaozhi’s interests, feigning surprise at their shared tastes and preferences. Their conversations, under Tan Luo’s skillful guidance, gradually shifted from Wei Zhuoning to other topics.

From a privileged background, with a highly educated mother and a successful entrepreneur father, Tan Luo’s future was paved with gold. She had no particular hobbies, her sole interest being romance, specifically pursuing girls.

Despite her “love-brain,” she was incredibly intelligent, effortlessly excelling in academics without much effort, which only fueled her arrogance.

At the time, Lin Xiaozhi hadn’t known about Tan Luo’s notorious reputation.

When Wei Zhuoning chose not to be in her group for a summer camp, Lin Xiaozhi was upset for a long time. Tan Luo comforted her late into the night, keeping her awake.

Even so, Lin Xiaozhi was grateful, seeing Tan Luo as a good friend willing to listen to her ramblings about her unrequited crush.

As middle school drew to a close, Lin Xiaozhi was unsure about which high school to choose. Wei Zhuoning wouldn’t be able to get into a top school, South Lake Third High was her limit. Lin Xiaozhi, on the other hand, could easily get into any top school. But she still had feelings for Wei Zhuoning, unwilling to give up just yet.

Tan Luo encouraged her, “I’m at South Lake Third High, too. I chose it because it’s less academically demanding. The students are a bit… well, but the teachers are good. If you come, we can still be together. We can talk about your little Zhuoning, and I can give you dating advice.”

So Lin Xiaozhi chose South Lake Third High.

Chi Lin: “So you being classmates with Zhuoning for six years wasn’t a coincidence. You planned it.”

“Exactly. There aren’t that many coincidences. Even us being in the same class, becoming deskmates, that was arranged by my dad.”

“But your feelings were always for Zhuoning, not Tan Luo?”

“Of course. I was only interested in Zhuoning. Tan Luo was never in the picture. But being in the same high school meant we saw each other more often. We were seen together a few times, which led to all the gossip on the school forums, saying she ‘turned me gay.’ Please, I was born this way. I didn’t need her help. I didn’t care about the rumors, but then that silly Zhuoning saw them… I never imagined she’d be interested in gossip.”

“She thought you and Tan Luo were together. Why didn’t you explain?”

Chi Lin answered her own question. “Because you were secretly digging into her family’s private matters, and you were afraid she’d be upset.”

“Regardless of your reasons, it was an invasion of privacy. And with her strong sense of self-respect, she would have been furious.”

“To protect your secret, you let the rumors spread for years, never denying them.”

“There’s no telling what Tan Luo might do. I was afraid she’d bother Zhuoning. I didn’t care about myself, but Zhuoning is different. She takes things very seriously.”

After a moment of silence, Chi Lin asked, “So how did you and Tan Luo fall out?”

“We didn’t ‘fall out.’ Her goal all along was to get me into bed.”

In high school, Lin Xiaozhi and Tan Luo became even closer, their physical contact increasing. Lin Xiaozhi grew wary, while Tan Luo continued to offer information about Wei Zhuoning in exchange for her attention.

By then, Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning were deskmates, their relationship deepening. Lin Xiaozhi became increasingly skeptical of Tan Luo’s stories.

Tan Luo, still trying to seduce her, finally angered Lin Xiaozhi with a forceful kiss, leading to a confrontation.

Tan Luo threatened to tell Wei Zhuoning about Lin Xiaozhi’s years-long obsession and her snooping, framing it as a “good deed” before their breakup.

Lin Xiaozhi searched her house for a weapon, then decided her bare hands would suffice.

After breaking Tan Luo’s leg, putting her out of school for a month, they were even. No matter how much Tan Luo later insisted it was just a joke, Lin Xiaozhi refused to believe her.

The label “scumbag” was permanently attached to Tan Luo.

The school forums continued to buzz with gossip, but Lin Xiaozhi never addressed it. She had been the one to invade Wei Zhuoning’s privacy first, and falling for Tan Luo’s trap was a lesson learned.

From then on, she focused on winning Wei Zhuoning’s affection through her own efforts. Even if it took longer, she had all the patience in the world.

Now that her relationship with Wei Zhuoning was stable, seeing Tan Luo’s claws reaching for Chi Lin, Lin Xiaozhi couldn’t stand idly by.

“Aren’t you afraid Tan Luo will tell Zhuoning about your snooping, out of spite?” Chi Lin asked.

“I am,” Lin Xiaozhi admitted. “I used to think I was fearless, that nothing could affect me. But now, I don’t want to lose Zhuoning, I don’t want to distance myself from her again.”

“So…?”

“But I did those things. Even if it’s exposed, I have no right to complain. My impatience was my own fault. Zhuoning deserves to know the truth.” Lin Xiaozhi shoved her hands in her pockets and stretched her legs. “I don’t want you to make the same mistakes I did.”

“Xiao Zhi, thank you.”

“So, did Tan Luo take advantage of you or not?”

“No,” Chi Lin said. “I met her a few times, but she had her schemes, and I had my reasons.”

“Your reasons? What reasons?”

“I can’t tell you yet.”

Lin Xiaozhi: “…” Sometimes, she found Chi Lin incredibly intelligent, like her recent top score in English. Her learning ability was remarkable. Other times, she felt like Chi Lin’s head was filled with air. When will she stop talking like someone from an ancient drama?

“Fine, I’ve said my piece. I’m sure you have your own plan.” Lin Xiaozhi stood up to leave.

“Thank you,” Chi Lin said, picking up Tiger, who was sleeping soundly. She walked Lin Xiaozhi to the community entrance.

As Lin Xiaozhi waited for her ride, Chi Lin asked, “Does Tan Luo live at Coastal No. 1?”

Lin Xiaozhi thought for a moment. “I think so, yes.”

…

Tan Luo sat in her luxurious villa at Coastal No. 1, sipping coffee and watching a popular girl group’s dance practice video.

Her phone rang. It was Chi Lin.

Tan Luo’s spirits lifted. She hadn’t expected Chi Lin to contact her. After Chi Lin’s rejection and abrupt departure at the library, she’d assumed her plan had failed. Apparently, Xiao Chi Lin’s curiosity hadn’t been completely satisfied.

Tan Luo dressed carefully and went to the designated meeting place: a pedestrian overpass.

The evening wind was biting, cutting through even Tan Luo’s layers of clothing. Shivering, she walked against the wind and finally saw Chi Lin.

Unlike the bundled-up Tan Luo, Chi Lin wore only a thin jacket, her hair neatly tied back, standing tall and straight like a pine tree in the snow. The sight made Tan Luo’s heart flutter.

“A true beauty,” she thought, as she shivered her way towards Chi Lin. “Xiao Chi Lin, always so unique, even choosing such an unusual place for a date.”

Chi Lin turned, her expression colder than the wind. “Do you know why I asked you to meet me here?”

Tan Luo couldn’t deny her attraction to this side of Chi Lin, so cold, so alluring. Every time Chi Lin exuded this aloofness, Tan Luo wanted to see her beneath her, completely undone…

“Because you missed me.”

Chi Lin’s lips twitched in something resembling a smile. Looking at the traffic below, she said, “I checked. This overpass is usually deserted. The security cameras have been broken for a while, no one’s bothered to fix them. It’s the perfect place to kill someone and get away with it.”

Tan Luo’s expression faltered, then she laughed. “I never knew my Xiao Chi Lin had a sense of humor.”

“But you seem to know a lot of other things. Things you should know, and things you shouldn’t.”

“What are you talking about?”

“You have my phone, don’t you?”

“Your phone?” Tan Luo shrugged. “You didn’t give it to me.”

“Did you crack the password yourself, or did you get someone to do it for you? Did you see everything on it?”

“What are you talking about, I…”

As Tan Luo continued to deny it, a glint of metal flashed in Chi Lin’s sleeve.

“What’s that in your sleeve?” Tan Luo’s signature smile faltered, her voice tightening.

“Want to see?” Chi Lin turned to face her directly. “I can show you.”

“N-No, I don’t want to see.”

Ignoring her, Chi Lin stepped closer.

Sensing danger, Tan Luo turned to run, but Chi Lin swiftly tripped her, sending her sprawling. Before Tan Luo could react, Chi Lin pinned her down, her hands twisted behind her back, and began searching her pockets.

Tan Luo, her back aching, her arms screaming in pain, actually laughed. “Xiao Chi Lin, you’re even more impressive than I imagined. Keep touching me, don’t stop.”

Chi Lin: “…You don’t have the phone on you?”

Tan Luo continued to play dumb. “What phone? I don’t know what you’re talking about…”

A knife suddenly plunged into the ground beside her head, grazing her nose, drawing blood.

Tan Luo: “…” The warm blood trickling down her face was a stark reminder of reality, silencing her.

“Answer two questions. Did you find my phone? And where is it now?”

Chi Lin was no stranger to interrogation. Physical pain was nothing. She had far more unpleasant methods if needed. Of course, her techniques needed some adjustments for this era. With her knowledge of pressure points, she could inflict excruciating pain without causing lasting damage.

Tan Luo, however, didn’t give her a chance to demonstrate. Terrified by the knife, she confessed, “Spare me! I did find your phone, but I don’t have it with me… I’m not stupid, I wouldn’t carry it around for you to find.”

Chi Lin: “So it’s at Coastal No. 1.”

“You’re truly remarkable, you even know where I live. If you want your phone back, you’ll have to let me live.”

Chi Lin only wanted the phone’s location. If Tan Luo had it, then the poem, the knowledge of Dayuan, everything made sense. Tan Luo wasn’t Her Majesty, just an opportunist.

Sensing Chi Lin’s grip loosen, Tan Luo tried to get up, but Chi Lin pressed a few pressure points on her back, immobilizing her with a wave of pain.

Chi Lin stood up. Tan Luo, despite being unrestrained, couldn’t move.

“What did you do to me…” Tan Luo gasped, her lower body numb, her breathing restricted.

Chi Lin placed a black pill in Tan Luo’s mouth, tilting her chin up, forcing her to swallow.

“I just temporarily disabled a few of your pressure points. They’ll recover soon. But this pill… this is a special concoction I made just for you.” Chi Lin said, “It’s made from seven deadly poisons. It tastes sweet, but it’s highly toxic. It won’t kill you immediately, but the poison will spread through your body for thirty days. As long as you get the antidote from me every month, you’ll be fine. You’ll even live a long and healthy life.”

Chi Lin knew the rumors about her, the whispers that she might be a demon, not a fairy. She decided to use them to her advantage, controlling Tan Luo without resorting to murder.

As the numbness subsided, Tan Luo, regaining control of her lower body, leaned against the railing and retched, but the pill remained lodged in her stomach.

“I have a few more questions.” Chi Lin grabbed her wrist, pressing a vital point. “Why do you have that birthmark?”

“Birthmark?” Tan Luo looked genuinely confused. “You mean the one on my chest? It’s real, of course.”

Chi Lin narrowed her eyes. “Really?”

“How can a birthmark be fake? My life is in your hands, I wouldn’t dare to lie. I found your phone, cracked the password out of curiosity, and saw the information about Dayuan. I admit, I wanted to use it to get closer to you, but it didn’t work. It was just a failed attempt at a date, not worth killing me over… As for the birthmark, I’ve had it since I was little. If you don’t believe me, I can show you!”

Tan Luo started to unbutton her shirt, but Chi Lin stopped her.

There was no reason for Tan Luo to lie at this point. So Chi Lin had recorded her search for Her Majesty and information about Dayuan on her phone, but the details of the birthmark had remained in her mind, deemed unnecessary to record. Tan Luo probably didn’t know about it.

Perhaps the birthmark wasn’t proof of a past life connection after all.

Chi Lin removed the ropes. Tan Luo, finally free, touched her nose, her fingers coming away bloody. The knife had indeed cut her.

For Tan Luo, who relied on her beauty, a single pimple was a tragedy. This scar was a devastating blow.

“I never imagined you were so cruel…” Tan Luo glared at Chi Lin.

Chi Lin scoffed. “You’re one to talk. Don’t worry, as long as you keep your mouth shut about my affairs, you’ll get your antidote every month. Otherwise…”

“Otherwise what?”

Chi Lin’s face darkened. “The poison will fester, your body will rot for forty-nine days, then you’ll dissolve into a puddle of blood. A gruesome end.”

Tan Luo shivered, staring at her.

Just as Chi Lin thought she’d achieved her goal, Tan Luo’s fear morphed into something else, a look of… fascination. “I always thought you were a cold, untouchable beauty, someone I wanted to conquer and… defile. I never imagined you had such a dark side. I like it. Don’t worry, I won’t breathe a word. The antidote doesn’t matter. What matters is that I get to see you every month. Xiao Chi Lin, my heroine, will you take me as your disciple?”

Chi Lin: “…” This era is full of surprises

Chapter 69

“I’m serious about marriage,” Lou Mi said.

“You’re the older sister, I’m the younger sister…”

“Just because we call each other sisters doesn’t mean we are sisters. You know that, right?”

“But marriage… isn’t that rushing things?”

“I’m not rushing anything, but your mom is.”

“My mother?”

“She knows we slept together last night.”

“How?!”

“You didn’t leave my room all night. Did you think they were blind?”

“…I thought they didn’t notice.”

“They didn’t, at first. But I ran into your mom when I went to get drinks. She asked if I’d seen you, and I accidentally let it slip that you were in my room.”

“…Accidentally?”

“Why would I lie?”

“And what was her reaction?”

“She immediately opened an app on her phone to check auspicious dates.”

“???”

“To find a good day for our wedding.”

“Why is she in such a hurry? She and Uncle aren’t even married yet.”

“They’re worried about your feelings. They decided to postpone their own wedding. Didn’t you always object to them getting married? They’re practically glued together, but they haven’t made it official. Why do you think that is? They were respecting your feelings, ready to remain unmarried for your sake. Now that you and I are… progressing, they see a brighter future. Your mom and my dad said they’ll start planning their own wedding after ours.”

After breakfast, Lou Mi left for the club. With another match tomorrow, she had to prepare. She was busy until dinner, when she finally found time to contact Chi Lin.

Their WeChat conversation felt like explaining things to a small child. Chi Lin, having lived with this family for several months, thought she was finally adapting to modern life, but clearly, she still had much to learn.

Chi Lin had heard of eras where losing one’s virginity meant mandatory marriage, but those were relics of backward societies. This was 2043, the era of high-speed transpacific travel and the first Martian colonies. Arranging a marriage after a kiss? Were the Lous overly eager, or was she just out of sync with modern times?

It made Chi Lin anxious.

Scrolling back through their chat history, Lou Mi sensed Chi Lin’s unease. Remembering Chi Lin’s flushed face from last night, Lou Mi’s heart softened. She couldn’t bear to pressure her.

“Those are just their thoughts, don’t take them too seriously. Marriage is a decision for you and me to make.” Opting for a gentler approach, she added, “I might be back late tonight. Go to sleep if you’re tired.”

Sending the message, Lou Mi congratulated herself on her cleverness. The surface meaning was considerate, but the hidden message was “Wait for me if you’re not tired.” Simplified, it was “Wait for me.”

She was confident Chi Lin would understand.

After about 30 seconds, Chi Lin replied: “I’ll wait for you.”

Lou Mi squealed internally, replaying Chi Lin’s voice message, her heart overflowing with sweetness.

“Okay, okay,” Lou Mi cooed into her phone. “Wait for me then. You promised, no backing out.”

As she sent the message, she noticed the door to her lounge was slightly ajar.

Hu Hu and Slay stood outside, hesitant to enter.

Lou Mi’s expression changed instantly. “Something I can help you with?”

“Buyu-jie asked us to tell you dinner’s ready,” Hu Hu said, unconsciously using formal language under Lou Mi’s gaze.

“Coming.”

Hu Hu: “Sorry to disturb…”

Lou Mi: “You did.”

Slay quietly closed the door.

Slay: “We survived.”

Hu Hu: “No wonder Buyu-jie sent us. She knew Mi-jie’s mood has been unpredictable lately. She used us as cannon fodder.”

“But Mi-jie seemed happy when she was talking on the phone just now.”

“You’re still young, you don’t understand. Women are a different species.”

…

At home, Chi Lin did her homework and browsed the internet, waiting for Lou Mi. She kept thinking about how Tan Luo knew about Dayuan. A possibility occurred to her, and she consulted the smart home system.

“Mr. System, can a lost phone be unlocked without the password?”

System: “Yes, it’s possible.”

Chi Lin inquired about the methods, learning that modern devices weren’t as secure as she thought, with numerous vulnerabilities. Some hackers could even remotely control devices. Unlocking a phone and accessing its data probably didn’t require advanced hacking skills.

Chi Lin thought for a moment, then asked, “Can I track the location of my lost phone?”

System: “Yes, if location services were enabled, you can track its movements when it’s turned on. As a minor, your phone had parental controls, which included mandatory location tracking. If you didn’t disable it after turning 18, it’s still active.”

“I didn’t even know about that, so I definitely didn’t disable it. Please track its location.”

The system displayed a map projection on the wall. Chi Lin saw her phone had been in an area she’d never visited: a luxury residential area called Coastal No. 1.

This confirmed her suspicions.

Her phone rang. It was a video call from Lin Xiaozhi.

“Are you home?” Lin Xiaozhi asked. “I need to talk to you about something.”

“Yes. Are you and Zhuoning coming together?”

“No, just me.”

Lin Xiaozhi rarely interacted with Chi Lin alone. Ever since they became deskmates, it had always been the three of them, including Wei Zhuoning. This solo visit, coupled with the rumors about Lin Xiaozhi and Tan Luo, made Chi Lin suspect it was about Tan Luo.

Fifteen minutes later, Chi Lin and Tiger met Lin Xiaozhi at the entrance of Longrun Gardens.

Lin Xiaozhi wore no makeup, her hair loose, a yellow down jacket, and a face mask. After greeting Chi Lin, they walked to the park together.

After letting Tiger run around, they sat on a heated bench.

Tiger, unfazed by strangers, sniffed Lin Xiaozhi, rolled around at her feet, and then promptly fell asleep.

Looking at the surprisingly green surroundings, Lin Xiaozhi asked, “Are you dating Tan Luo? Zhuoning and I saw you two together at the mall that day. You even watched a movie together.”

“I wouldn’t call that a date,” Chi Lin said. She hadn’t met Tan Luo with any romantic intentions.

Expecting Lin Xiaozhi to gossip, Chi Lin was surprised by her serious tone. “Is she threatening you?”

Chi Lin considered this, then shook her head. Tan Luo’s actions didn’t qualify as threats.

Lin Xiaozhi scoffed. “Then she’s trying to win you over. Tan Luo is very good at manipulating people. She’ll do anything to get what she wants, showering her target with attention and gifts, gaining their trust, then… well, you know. Her ultimate goal is to get them into bed. Now her target is you, Chi Lin. Once she gets what she wants, she’ll quickly lose interest. Several senior students fell for her tricks last year.”

Lin Xiaozhi had expected Chi Lin to be shocked, or at least uncomfortable, assuming Chi Lin, like most high schoolers, was fairly innocent. But Chi Lin’s focus wasn’t on the “bedding” part. She asked, “How did she win you over?”

So Chi Lin knows about us.

Lin Xiaozhi: “Did Wei Zhuoning tell you about my… past?”

Chi Lin: “She didn’t have to. Your relationship with Tan Luo was quite well-known at South Lake Third High.”

Lin Xiaozhi was momentarily speechless, swallowing a string of curses. “Tan Luo might seem ditzy, but she’s a master manipulator.”

Getting involved with Tan Luo had been a moment of weakness for Lin Xiaozhi. She didn’t want to use “youthful ignorance” as an excuse, but it had been a mistake. That’s why she’d hesitated before coming to see Chi Lin today.

Lin Xiaozhi’s connection with Tan Luo stemmed from Wei Zhuoning, though Wei Zhuoning herself was unaware of this.

“You know Zhuoning and I were classmates in middle school. I was the class president back then, too. Zhuoning’s grades weren’t great, but not as bad as now. She was average.”

In middle school, Lin Xiaozhi, taller than her peers due to early development, sat behind Wei Zhuoning. She often poked Wei Zhuoning’s head when she slouched, and Wei Zhuoning would retaliate by biting her, resulting in both of them being sent to stand outside the classroom.

Initially, Lin Xiaozhi found Wei Zhuoning annoying, but she later realized Wei Zhuoning wasn’t truly aggressive, just… silly. She looked fierce, but she was actually naive and easy to tease, constantly looking like the world owed her a million dollars, exploding at the slightest provocation. But her explosions were like firecrackers, all noise and no real impact.

Wei Zhuoning was perfect entertainment. Teasing her and watching her get riled up was a great stress reliever.

As she continued her teasing, Lin Xiaozhi discovered that Wei Zhuoning wasn’t just silly and aggressive, but also kind.

Lin Xiaozhi had a sensitive stomach. Being image-conscious during puberty, she often skipped meals, afraid of gaining weight.

Whenever Wei Zhuoning arrived at class and didn’t see Lin Xiaozhi teasing her, she knew Lin Xiaozhi was having stomach problems again. “What’s wrong? Did you eat something bad again?”

Lin Xiaozhi would glance weakly at the nosy girl, surprised to find genuine concern, not mockery, in her eyes. Silly girl, she thought, eating something bad… it’s because I didn’t eat anything. She usually ignored her; the pain would subside after a while.

That day, Wei Zhuoning skipped morning reading. She returned just as the homeroom teacher arrived, and was promptly scolded. Unfortunately, the teacher had just lectured them about their abysmal average test scores the previous day. As they neared graduation, they knew such lectures were followed by a period of stricter discipline. Skipping class at such a time was asking for trouble.

After a lengthy scolding in the office, a written apology, and a call to her parents, Wei Zhuoning was half-dead.

Lin Xiaozhi witnessed it all, once again lamenting Wei Zhuoning’s lack of common sense. With her current grades, attending a top high school was out of the question. South Lake Third High was her best bet.

Despite the repercussions, Wei Zhuoning skipped class again a few days later, coinciding with another bout of Lin Xiaozhi’s stomach pain. Lin Xiaozhi was in too much pain to care. Stubborn girl, what could be so important that she had to skip class?

Wei Zhuoning returned, breathless, having walked instead of taking a taxi to save money. She waited outside the classroom for half a period, then slipped in through the back door after the teacher left, placing a box of stomach medicine on Lin Xiaozhi’s desk.

Lin Xiaozhi, clutching her stomach, looked up. “?”

“This medicine is really good for stomach aches.” Wei Zhuoning was sweating, her collar damp.

Lin Xiaozhi was puzzled. “You skipped class just to buy me this?”

“Just ‘this’? It’s a miracle cure! Everyone who’s tried it says it works.”

“Did you skip class last time to buy me medicine, too?”

Wei Zhuoning blushed, embarrassed that the medicine she’d bought last time had been confiscated. “Why so many questions? Just take it. My mom often has stomach aches, I know how painful they can be. This is a prescription medicine, I had to get my mom’s prescription to buy it. Try it.”

Lin Xiaozhi, despite her pain, smiled. “You’re such a silly girl…”

Wei Zhuoning: “Why are you calling me silly again?”

“You can’t just take prescription drugs without a doctor’s advice.”

“Oh, really?”

“But…” Lin Xiaozhi clutched the medicine. “Thank you.”

Wei Zhuoning blushed again. “We’re classmates, no need for thanks. Too formal.”

Skipping class twice for a box of medicine… Lin Xiaozhi couldn’t help but wonder. Does she like me? Why else would she be so nice to me?

Lin Xiaozhi, beautiful, intelligent, and from a wealthy family, had never lacked admirers, but they were mostly boys, and she wasn’t interested. She preferred girls.

This was the first time she’d felt a girl’s affection in real life. She started paying closer attention to Wei Zhuoning, trying to gauge the extent of her feelings.

After two months of observation, Lin Xiaozhi concluded she’d been mistaken. Wei Zhuoning was kind to everyone, always willing to help, a true people-pleaser. Lin Xiaozhi wasn’t special.

Disappointed, Lin Xiaozhi mentally labeled Wei Zhuoning as an indiscriminate giver. Why bother pleasing everyone when they don’t care about you? She hadn’t noticed before, but Wei Zhuoning always agreed to every request, to the point where some girls in class started taking advantage of her, asking her to buy breakfast, carrying it back for them without even offering to pay, just showering her with empty praise.

Hearing this, Chi Lin was incredulous. “Are you sure you’re talking about the Wei Zhuoning I know?”

“Yes, it’s her. You wouldn’t believe how naive she was in middle school. Her family wasn’t wealthy, but she kept wasting money on others. I lectured her a few times, and she eventually came to her senses.”

Chi Lin remembered Wei Zhuoning buying her a chicken leg in the cafeteria, which had been wasted by Xu Yifang and her friends.

Unable to stand Wei Zhuoning’s self-sacrificing behavior, Lin Xiaozhi took her to the school field after class for a talk.

“They don’t appreciate it, they just see you as a servant,” Lin Xiaozhi said bluntly. “Do you think money grows on trees?”

Prepared for an argument, Lin Xiaozhi was surprised when Wei Zhuoning remained silent, then finally mumbled, “I just… want to have friends.”

Her words, and the expression on her face, struck a chord in Lin Xiaozhi.

“What are you talking about?” Lin Xiaozhi asked, slightly annoyed. “Aren’t I your friend?”

Wei Zhuoning looked at her incredulously. “You think so? I always thought you hated me.”

“I…” Lin Xiaozhi rolled her eyes, swallowing her curses, afraid of scaring the silly girl. Forcing a sweet smile, she said, “Why would I hate you? I’m always interacting with you, aren’t I?”

“I thought you were trying to get rid of me.”

Lin Xiaozhi: “…” So this poor girl is actually insecure, she realized, seeking validation by pleasing others. Where did this insecurity come from? Why was she such a people-pleaser?

Lin Xiaozhi’s curiosity about Wei Zhuoning grew. She wanted to understand her, her family background.

Wei Zhuoning, noticing Lin Xiaozhi’s sudden interest, was baffled. Why would a perfect student like Lin Xiaozhi care about her? Her insecurity led her to distance herself from Lin Xiaozhi, even stopping talking to her.

Lin Xiaozhi was exasperated. Wei Zhuoning fawned over people who didn’t care about her, and rejected those who did.

The more Wei Zhuoning resisted, the more determined Lin Xiaozhi became to understand her.

That’s when her online friend, “Peach Blossom Pool,” accurately pinpointed her weakness.

“Is this person you’re talking about named Wei Zhuoning?” After listening to Lin Xiaozhi’s woes, Peach Blossom Pool, surprisingly, knew Wei Zhuoning’s name. “I know a bit about her family.”

Lin Xiaozhi was curious. “How do you know about her family?”

“Wei Zhuoning’s mother works at my uncle’s factory. She’s a very hard worker, wins the Employee of the Year award every year.”

Lin Xiaozhi had heard rumors about Wei Zhuoning’s mother working at a factory.

“What else do you know?” Lin Xiaozhi asked eagerly.

“That’s all I know, I haven’t really asked about her. But she’s my uncle’s employee, so it would be easy for me to find out more if you’re interested. How about we meet up? I can tell you more.”

At the time, Lin Xiaozhi hadn’t thought much of it, eager for any information about Wei Zhuoning. She hadn’t realized she was being played by Tan Luo, who continued to string her along for two years, from the end of middle school through the first year of high school.

Chapter 68

Chi Lin was so compliant that Lou Mi felt like a predator taking advantage of a child. She even wondered if Chi Lin was frozen out of fear – though that seemed unlikely, considering Chi Lin could probably snap her neck or crush her ribs if she wanted to. It was precisely Chi Lin’s immense power and her current complete submission that made Lou Mi hesitate.

Lou Mi released her, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face, her fingers lingering on her cheek. Such a beautiful face, she thought, silently taking in every detail. The two moles under her eyes, as if tears might fall at any moment, yet she possessed the fierceness of a wild animal. How could someone like Chi Lin exist, so full of contradictions? Every detail about her both captivated and distressed Lou Mi.

Her face cupped in Lou Mi’s hands, Chi Lin finally caught her breath and opened her eyes.

Lou Mi saw a flicker of emotion in their depths.

“You didn’t reject me. So I was right,” Lou Mi said, her thumb gently caressing the moles under Chi Lin’s eyes, afraid of disturbing their delicate beauty. “You like me too, but for some reason, you’re holding back.”

Chi Lin remained silent, averting her gaze.

Lou Mi understood. Words were useless with Chi Lin. Actions spoke louder.

She kissed her again. After a moment of hesitation, Chi Lin closed her eyes, even offering a tentative response to the long, tender kiss.

Lou Mi didn’t know where her kissing skills came from. She’d never kissed anyone before. Of course, growing up in the 2010s, she’d had plenty of sex education, both formal and informal, intentional and accidental. Not to mention access to age-restricted holographic games as an adult. But this was her first real kiss, and yet, it felt familiar, natural, as if she and Chi Lin had done this countless times before.

Emboldened by Chi Lin’s response, Lou Mi led her to the sofa.

“Lou Mi…” Chi Lin’s soft, husky voice brought Lou Mi back to reality. She opened her eyes.

Chi Lin’s arms were pinned beside her head, her earlobes crimson, her lips swollen and red. Usually so composed and stoic, her current disheveled state was a stark contrast.

Lou Mi knew she was responsible, that she held Chi Lin captive, and Chi Lin was willingly surrendering.

“I want to continue,” Lou Mi said, knowing that Chi Lin calling her name was a plea to stop. But she didn’t want to stop, the desire consuming her.

Chi Lin whispered, “But…”

“I want to,” Lou Mi said, gently tilting Chi Lin’s chin up.

Chi Lin fell silent, accepting Lou Mi’s decision.

Lou Mi felt Chi Lin’s throat bob as she swallowed. If Chi Lin was usually a fierce predator, now she was a tamed beast, completely submissive. The power dynamic was intoxicating.

Lou Mi felt like she was floating, a queen with Chi Lin as her obedient subject. She knew, in this moment, Chi Lin would refuse her nothing.

…

“Why is your hair wet?”

Turning on the bedside lamp, Chi Lin winced at the sudden brightness.

Lou Mi quickly adjusted the lampshade.

Chi Lin sat on the sofa, her lips still red and swollen.

Lou Mi touched her hair, regretting her earlier impulsiveness. Adjusting Chi Lin’s rumpled pajamas, she noticed her hair was still wet, dampening the back of her shirt.

Chi Lin sat with her head down, silent.

For a brief moment, Lou Mi feared Chi Lin would never speak to her again.

Fortunately, after a few seconds, Chi Lin spoke. “I was going to dry it after talking to you.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. Come here, I’ll dry it for you.”

Lou Mi retrieved the hairdryer and patted the sofa, inviting Chi Lin to sit.

Chi Lin hesitated. This position, one sitting, one standing behind, felt too familiar.

The quiet hairdryer hummed to life, the warm air lifting Chi Lin’s hair, the moisture dissipating into the darkness. Lou Mi’s fingers gently combed through her hair, carefully drying each section, paying special attention to the nape of her neck.

“Does it hurt?” Lou Mi asked.

“Are you referring to…?”

“…Did I pull your hair?”

“No.”

Lou Mi pressed, “Besides your hair, what else could hurt?”

Silence.

“You were so compliant, how could I be rough? I felt like a monster.”

Still silence.

“Okay, done,” Lou Mi said, turning off the hairdryer. “All dry.”

Chi Lin: “Thank you.”

Suddenly, Lou Mi understood. Chi Lin’s lips must be sore from the intense kissing. That’s what she meant…

Lou Mi rummaged through her bag and handed Chi Lin a lip balm. “Sorry, first time, no experience. Put some on, or your lips will get chapped.”

Chi Lin took the lip balm but didn’t use it immediately.

Lou Mi thought for a moment, then realized again. The lip balm wasn’t new; she’d already used it. Giving it to Chi Lin now, after practically ravishing her, seemed… presumptuous.

“It’s not poisoned,” Lou Mi said, forcing a casual tone, trying to mask her embarrassment.

Chi Lin dabbed a bit on her fingertip and applied it to her lips. She was simply unfamiliar with modern lip balm.

After drying and brushing her hair, Chi Lin tied it back with a hair tie.

Lou Mi had expected her usual tight bun, but Chi Lin had opted for a high ponytail.

“Why did you tie it like that?”

Chi Lin hesitated. “Does it look bad?”

Lou Mi: “Of course not! It’s just… so cute, it makes me want to kiss you again.”

Chi Lin: “…”

Satisfied with her teasing, Lou Mi smiled. “Don’t worry, I’ll restrain myself. But there’s something I need to know. Tell me the truth.”

Chi Lin sat up straight, looking at Lou Mi intently. If it weren’t for the lingering blush on her face and the marks on her neck, it would be impossible to tell she had just been passionately kissed.

“What’s going on with you and Tan Luo?” Lou Mi asked seriously, dropping her usual playful facade. She wanted Chi Lin to understand how much she cared.

Chi Lin: “Like you said before, I was looking for something in Tan Luo.”

“And did you find it?”

Chi Lin shook her head. “No. I think she tricked me.”

“Oh? How?”

Chi Lin sensed that Tan Luo knew what she wanted and was deliberately leading her on, piling coincidence upon coincidence, hoping to gain Chi Lin’s complete trust. But Chi Lin wasn’t a fool. Too many coincidences only bred suspicion.

She was now certain Tan Luo was most likely not Her Majesty, but somehow knew about Dayuan, and even about Chi Lin’s true identity. If that was the case, regardless of Tan Luo’s methods, she couldn’t be allowed to continue.

A glint of something dangerous flickered in Chi Lin’s eyes.

Lou Mi: “…If you don’t want to talk about it, you don’t have to. There’s no need to look so menacing.”

Chi Lin: “I’m not trying to be menacing towards you.”

“Then who? Tan Luo?” Suddenly, a startling realization dawned on Lou Mi. Lowering her voice, she asked, “Are you planning to silence her? For this ‘thing’ I won’t understand?”

Silencing someone was trivial for Chi Lin. Ever since her fate became intertwined with Her Majesty’s, countless people had been caught in the crossfire of political struggles. Her hands were already stained with blood.

But she understood the laws of this era, and she didn’t want to frighten Lou Mi. “Murder is illegal. I won’t kill anyone.”

“…I was just joking, but now that you’re being so serious, I’m not so sure anymore. I know what you’re capable of. Chi Lin, I can’t control what you do, but listen to me: don’t break the law, don’t go to jail. You’ve finally found some stability, don’t ruin it.”

Lou Mi’s sincerity made Chi Lin reconsider. Tan Luo didn’t have to die. Dead men tell no tales, but she knew other ways to ensure silence.

“Okay,” Chi Lin nodded.

“You promised. Don’t go back on your word.”

“I won’t,” Chi Lin said solemnly, not like a casual promise, but like an oath.

“Good girl.” Lou Mi couldn’t resist ruffling her hair.

Chi Lin submissively accepted the affectionate gesture.

Lou Mi felt like she had claimed a pet, and she was now the master. “Are you going back tonight?”

Chi Lin, surprised by the question, blinked. “Huh?”

“Stay here. I want to hold you while I sleep.”

“But…”

“Don’t worry, I’m exhausted after today’s match. I used up all my energy. I’ll fall asleep the moment my head hits the pillow. I won’t do anything to you.”

Lou Mi had only told half the truth. She wasn’t just tired; her head was pounding. The pain had been almost unbearable during the celebratory dinner. When she got home, her PT index was 6.2, a new record, exceeding her previous high of 5.8.

During the dinner, Zhuo Jinglan, champagne in hand, had practically glued herself to Lou Mi’s side, interrogating her about the drugs.

Lou Mi was exasperated. “When have I ever taken drugs without your knowledge? Don’t accuse me without proof.”

“Guess who I sat next to after I was kicked out?”

“Do I have psychic powers? How would I know who you sat next to?”

“Dr. Bai. Your doctor.”

“Oh,” Lou Mi said calmly. “So she actually made it. Didn’t waste that front-row VIP ticket.”

“Is that the point? If it weren’t for Dr. Bai, I wouldn’t have known you were still taking drugs against her advice. I saw you rubbing your temples earlier. Is your head hurting badly? What did you take?”

“That’s patient confidentiality. She wouldn’t tell you.”

“Never mind how I know. Just tell me the truth. Did you or did you not take any drugs?”

“I didn’t,” Lou Mi said confidently, because she hadn’t taken any neuron stimulants today. She avoided them unless absolutely necessary, not wanting to die young.

“Really?” Zhuo Jinglan’s eyes narrowed.

“Back off… I really didn’t.”

“Swear it.”

“I’m not swearing anything.”

Zhuo Jinglan: “…”

“Alright,” Lou Mi said. “I know what I’m doing.”

If she could, she would never take another neuron stimulant again. But she wouldn’t throw them away either. Her condition was unstable; she might need them.

Lou Mi had only mentioned being tired, but Chi Lin saw through her. “Is your head hurting, too?”

“Huh?”

“When your head hurts, you unconsciously raise your left eyebrow.”

“Really… I never noticed.”

“Let me massage your head. It’ll help.”

Touched by her gentleness, Lou Mi took Chi Lin’s hand. “So you’re not leaving tonight?”

Chi Lin: “No.”

If her head hadn’t been throbbing, Lou Mi might have wanted to do more. But Chi Lin’s massage was magical, almost lulling her to sleep. Later, as she drifted off, she vaguely heard Chi Lin talking about acupuncture, but she couldn’t focus.

As she fell into a deep sleep, Lou Mi was semi-conscious of her dream. She knew she was dreaming, but it felt like an abyss, pulling her deeper. She saw scenes from Return to Jianghu, the Snowy Peak, a place she could navigate blindfolded.

Then, the snowy landscape shifted, replaced by an unfamiliar city, grand and majestic, a city she’d never seen before.

As she drifted towards wakefulness, she tried to decipher the dream city. Maybe I saw it in a documentary, she thought. She vaguely remembered a moat running through the city, and just before opening her eyes, she saw the scenery along its banks, trying to memorize it.

But the moment her eyes opened, the real world flooded her senses, washing away the dream. Try as she might, she couldn’t recall the details.

“Jiejie?”

Chi Lin’s voice brought her fully awake.

Lou Mi realized she was nestled against Chi Lin, her arm around her waist, her head on Chi Lin’s chest.

“You’re awake?” Chi Lin asked.

“Mmm…” Lou Mi closed her eyes, feigning sleepiness. “I need a kiss from Xiao Lin to wake up properly.”

The familiar coquettishness, so like Her Majesty’s, made Chi Lin’s heart flutter. She leaned in and kissed her.

“I thought you’d find that too cheesy,” Lou Mi said, opening her eyes and looking at Chi Lin intently.

“No.”

Lou Mi sat up, noticing the pain in her head had subsided considerably. She replayed the events of the previous night, every detail crystal clear. Usually, she struggled to remember mornings after a match, relying on voice recordings on her phone.

Today was different.

Besides the victory, she remembered every nuance of her kisses with Chi Lin: her expression, her gaze, the softness of her lips, her suppressed gasps…

It put her in an excellent mood.

“What do you want for breakfast?” Lou Mi asked. “I can make you something.”

“Anything is fine,” Chi Lin replied. “I didn’t go back to my room last night. I wonder if Uncle and Mother noticed.”

“You’re worried about that? If they didn’t notice, I can tell them now.”

“…You’re being ridiculous. Of course I’m worried they did notice.”

“So what if they did?” Lou Mi didn’t understand. “We’re not related, we’re in a relationship. Same-sex marriage has been legal for over a decade, what’s there to hide? Besides, your mom would be thrilled.”

“My mom would be thrilled?”

“Absolutely. Remember the last time we got drunk? I actually blacked out. Your mom told me about the kiss. She was already talking about our wedding then.”

“Wedding?” Chi Lin was stunned. “Getting married after one kiss?”

Even in Dayuan, no parent would suggest such a thing.

“I think your mom is right,” Lou Mi said. “We should get married.”

Chi Lin: “…”

Chapter 67

No, this is too disgusting.

Chi Lin couldn’t bear Tan Luo’s closeness and pushed her away.

“What’s wrong, Xiao Chi Lin?” Tan Luo asked innocently. “Weren’t we having a nice moment? Why the sudden change of heart?”

There was never a “nice moment” to begin with…

Two people hurried past them, discussing Nine Heavens’ first match in the Winter World Cup. Books can wait, one said, HighTowerMiyuki’s performance is a must-see!. They were rushing home to watch.

Lou Mi has a match today? Chi Lin was completely unaware; Lou Mi hadn’t told her. So that’s why she hasn’t been home lately.

Chi Lin pulled out her phone and saw Lou Mi’s WeChat messages. Lou Mi had wanted to see her before the match… A wave of anxiety washed over her. She hurried towards the library exit, ignoring Tan Luo’s calls.

The sea wind made it difficult to breathe. As Chi Lin walked along the railing, a middle schooler on a hoverboard zipped past, then doubled back, staring at her for a moment before finally working up the courage to speak. “Are you… the fairy from South Lake Third High?”

Overcome with excitement, the student had struggled to remember Chi Lin’s name, settling for “fairy,” then cringing internally.

Chi Lin glanced at him, then at the hoverboard. She recognized it, a modern equivalent of Nezha’s Wind Fire Wheels. While not as fast as a car, it was definitely faster and less strenuous than running.

Wanting to borrow it, Chi Lin forced a smile and confirmed, “Yes, that’s me.” The student immediately pulled out his phone for a selfie.

“Sure, we can take a picture,” Chi Lin said. “But I need to borrow your hoverboard.”

The student: “Take it! You can even have my life!”

Chi Lin: “…”

This was her first time on a hoverboard. Following the student’s instructions, she gripped the handles and used her waist to steer. Initially wobbly, she quickly found her balance, mastering the controls within a hundred meters, then sped off.

The coastal road was wide. Chi Lin pushed the hoverboard to its maximum speed in the non-motorized lane. The wind stung her eyes. For a first-timer, this speed, without any protective gear, was dangerous.

The broadcasting building was in sight, its exterior displaying the live stream.

Glancing at the screen, Chi Lin’s heart sank. The tide of the battle had turned. Hu Hu and Xie Buyu were dead, leaving only Fu Tu and Lou Mi.

And the opposing team still had three players!

What happened?

Dr. Bai, sitting in the front row of the spectator area, was sweating nervously. Things aren’t looking good, she thought. Lou Mi seemed distracted. After securing first blood, she’d had a chance to wipe out the enemy team, but her combo had failed. She’d missed a kill by a hair’s breadth!

In high-level esports, even the slightest mistake could be fatal. Now, Nine Heavens was at a disadvantage. Fu Tu was also low on health. She and Lou Mi were cornered at the peak of Five Finger Mountain, their escape route blocked.

Dr. Bai, not an esports expert, could still sense the tension. The person beside her seemed to be Nine Heavens’ manager, the one who had been ejected earlier. “What’s happening?” Dr. Bai asked. “Does HighTowerMiyuki have a secret weapon or something?”

Zhuo Jinglan, fuming, didn’t want to answer any questions. If she could, she would have climbed the Empire State Building and screamed. But seeing the woman’s enthusiasm for Nine Heavens, she forced a smile and said, “Their strategy has fallen apart.”

Dr. Bai: “Oh, so they’re in danger?”

Zhuo Jinglan thought, Even with Lou Mi’s recklessness, they’re not in that much danger. They were outnumbered, but even if Fu Tu died, Nine Heavens might still pull through. Lou Mi’s individual skill was far superior to most.

Dr. Bai muttered, “Is it because of the drugs again…?”

Zhuo Jinglan’s ears perked up. Looking at the woman more closely, she asked, “Are you Lou Mi’s doctor?”

“Yes, I’m Dr. Bai.”

“What’s this about drugs?”

Dr. Bai: “…” She has good hearing, she thought.

The match reached its climax. Sturm prepared for the final push, aiming to eliminate Fu Tu and HighTowerMiyuki.

Fu Tu: “Mi-jie, what’s the plan?”

Lou Mi glanced upwards. “Can you hold them off for a bit?”

“Huh? All three of them?” Fu Tu asked incredulously. “Are you kidding me?”

“What about the one above?”

Fu Tu followed her gaze and understood immediately. After years of playing with Lou Mi, she’d learned to accept the absurd. “Fine. Who made me join Nine Heavens and play tank? If not me, then who?”

…

Reaching the broadcasting building, Chi Lin grabbed the hoverboard and ran towards the elevators.

Security was tight during the World Cup. Seeing someone running, the guards immediately stopped her.

“Excuse me, miss, is there a problem?”

Chi Lin was sweating, her usually neat bun disheveled. Catching her breath, she explained, “I’m Lou Mi’s family. I need to see her.”

Security: “Lou Mi? HighTowerMiyuki? She’s in a match right now. You can’t see her. Why don’t you wait here? You can contact her after the match.”

Chi Lin: “Will she come down here after the match?”

“I’m not sure.”

There were no screens in the lobby. Chi Lin tried to watch the live stream on her phone, but it required registration and payment. By the time she finally got in, the stream was lagging due to the high viewership.

Chi Lin pleaded with the guard, “Can you tell me how the match is going? Did HighTowerMiyuki win?”

The guard, unable to use his phone while on duty, had no idea.

Suddenly, a roar of cheers erupted from upstairs. Chi Lin and the guard looked up.

The guard pointed. “Sounds like they won! With HighTowerMiyuki, we never lose!”

…

Lou Mi fired her flamethrower at the cliff behind them, triggering a rockslide. Fu Tu shielded her with a barrier. The three Sturm players were buried, taking minimal damage, but their vision was completely obscured.

Darkness, flashes of red mist, and rapidly depleting health bars.

Before they could even locate their attackers, they were cut down by HighTowerMiyuki’s lightning-fast flamethrower.

The screen displayed:

“HighTowerMiyuki killed Himmel”

“HighTowerMiyuki killed Feuer”

“HighTowerMiyuki killed Theresa”

The broadcasting building erupted in cheers.

HighTowerMiyuki always delivered the unexpected! Turning a near-certain defeat into a total victory, she once again held the world’s hearts in her hands.

“Mi-jie—!” The match over, Xie Buyu ripped off her access crystal and leaped into Lou Mi’s arms.

Still in her chair, Lou Mi, her chest injury flaring up from the impact, yelled, “Get off me! You’re crushing me!”

“Mi-jie, you little tease! Why didn’t you do that earlier? Waiting until the last minute for a comeback, you almost gave me a heart attack!”

Lou Mi scoffed. “Did you really think we were going to lose?”

As Xie Buyu tried to get up, Fu Tu jumped on top of her, pinning them both down.

Fu Tu: “Mi-jie! I love you forever!”

Xie Buyu’s face turned blue. “Get the fuck off me!”

Lou Mi, suffocating: “…”

Fu Tu: “Nope! This is too comfortable!”

Xie Buyu: “Didn’t I crush you enough last time? Want me to finish the job tonight?!”

Fu Tu: “Try me.”

Xie Buyu: “Still talking back to your mama?”

Annoyed and force-fed a mouthful of dog food, Lou Mi kicked them both off. “Get lost!”

Xie Buyu, looking at the shoe print on her uniform: “Mi-jie, what’s with the hostility?”

Lou Mi realized she’d overreacted. They were just celebrating. Soccer players piled on each other after a win; she shouldn’t take her frustration out on her teammates.

Hu Hu tried to smooth things over. “Jiejies, we won! We should be celebrating. Don’t be angry, it’s bad for your health.”

Lou Mi was about to apologize when Xie Buyu cut her off. “Mi-jie, you really need to let off some steam. Hu Hu’s right, bottling it up is bad for you.”

Lou Mi: “…”

Hu Hu: “That’s not what I meant! I’m innocent!”

Right, so much for apologies. Nine Heavens should just disband right here, right now.

After the match, Zhuo Jinglan finally returned. From the post-match team interview to individual interviews, her gaze never left Lou Mi, making Lou Mi increasingly uncomfortable. Fortunately, with the media present, Zhuo Jinglan maintained a professional demeanor, sparing Lou Mi her usual lecture.

After their victory, the club owner treated them to dinner.

Fans gathered outside the broadcasting building, their cheers and chants echoing inside. Xie Buyu and Fu Tu went to the window, their heads together, and formed a heart with their arms, sending the fans into a frenzy.

Hu Hu waved cheerfully. Lou Mi, standing beside her, mirrored her actions, but her face remained expressionless, like a greeting robot. Longtime fans of HighTowerMiyuki were used to her stoicism. It didn’t matter; as long as she delivered victories and championships, they adored her, grumpy face and all.

After interacting with the fans, the team and club staff left through the VIP exit.

Chi Lin sat in the lobby, watching the excited fans waving HighTowerMiyuki banners. Remembering the recent online hate directed at her, she stayed inside, pulling her hoodie over her head.

As night fell and the fans dispersed, Lou Mi still hadn’t appeared. Chi Lin’s phone buzzed with notifications, none from Lou Mi.

Tired and hungry, she continued to wait.

The security guard and his colleagues emerged in civilian clothes, surprised to see Chi Lin still there. “You’re still here?”

Chi Lin: “I’m waiting for her.”

“They left a long time ago! Through the VIP exit! Go home! They left over an hour ago!”

“I see…”

“You should leave. The building will be closed in 15 minutes.”

Chi Lin bowed slightly to the guard and slowly walked out. Using her phone, she located her car, which automatically drove to pick her up.

Sitting in the car, Chi Lin realized she had just bowed like a soldier. The guard must think I’m crazy, she thought. Well, with her mind in such turmoil, she probably wasn’t entirely sane.

Exhausted from her five-kilometer run, having eaten nothing since breakfast, Chi Lin fell asleep in the car.

She was awakened by someone knocking on the window.

“Xiao Lin, Xiao Lin? Why are you sleeping in the car?”

Peng Ziyuan, just returning from work, had spotted someone in Chi Lin’s car and recognized her daughter.

Chi Lin quickly woke up, got out of the car, and took the elevator up with Peng Ziyuan.

As the elevator doors opened, Chi Lin’s heart pounded. She couldn’t even think of what to say to Lou Mi.

Fortunately, Lou Mi, always considerate, spared her the awkwardness.

She wasn’t home.

After showering, Chi Lin emerged to find Lou Lixing had also arrived.

“Yuan Yuan, I’m so tired,” he said, seeing Peng Ziyuan reading on the sofa. He hugged her affectionately. “Where’s Mi Mi?”

“Mi Mi isn’t back yet. Is she celebrating with her teammates?”

Lou Lixing: “Probably. The club always throws a party after a win. But the World Cup just started, they have more matches to play. They shouldn’t be drinking or staying out too late. It’s almost midnight, she should be back by now.”

“Why don’t you call her?”

“She’s a grown-up now, I don’t want to smother her…”

Just then, the elevator doors opened.

Lou Mi stepped out, her hair loose, glancing at them. “Still awake?”

Lou Lixing and Peng Ziyuan rushed to greet her. “We were waiting for you to come home and celebrate your victory!”

Lou Mi smiled faintly. “It was just one match, we haven’t won anything yet.”

“You’re already a champion in my eyes!” Lou Lixing declared.

“Alright, I’ve heard enough praise for tonight. You two should get some rest. Good night.”

Lou Mi waved tiredly and went to the kitchen for ice cream. Passing Chi Lin’s room, she saw the door open. Chi Lin was about to dry her hair, but stopped when she saw Lou Mi, just staring at her, waiting for her to make eye contact, waiting for a conversation.

But Lou Mi walked past twice, not even glancing her way.

Eating her ice cream, Lou Mi returned to her room and was about to close the door when she saw Chi Lin standing there.

“What?” Lou Mi jumped, almost dropping her ice cream. “Why are you so quiet? Are you a ghost?”

Chi Lin: “Sorry, did I scare you?”

“What do you want?” Lou Mi asked, still eating her ice cream.

“I need to talk to you…”

“Oh, it’s so cold outside, my feet are still numb. I need a hot bath. Can we talk tomorrow?”

Chi Lin: “Then go ahead and shower. I’ll wait for you.”

Lou Mi nodded. “Fine, wait then.”

“I’ll wait in the living room.”

“Whatever.”

Lou Mi went to shower. Chi Lin returned to the living room. Her parents had already gone to bed. She waited for over half an hour, but Lou Mi didn’t emerge.

Lou Mi was understandably upset; Chi Lin had missed such an important day. She had seen the comments online, about Lou Mi’s late login and phone use during the match. Lou Mi had probably been waiting for her message, which had caused her to lose focus.

Not wanting to miss Lou Mi if she came out, Chi Lin sat in the living room with wet hair, waiting until past one o’clock. Surely Lou Mi must be done showering by now. She knocked on her door.

“I’m asleep,” Lou Mi’s voice came from behind the door, not sounding particularly sleepy.

Leaning against the door, Chi Lin said, “I saw your messages. Something came up, so I couldn’t reply immediately. By the time I did, you were already playing. I went to the broadcasting building, but I didn’t see you.”

Silence. No response.

“I didn’t know you left through a different exit. It wasn’t anything urgent, but I wanted to congratulate you on your victory.”

Still no response.

“About Tan Luo…” Chi Lin began. “There are some things that are hard to explain, and even if I did, you might not understand, so…”

The door suddenly opened. Lou Mi pulled her inside and pushed her against the wall.

The door closed. The room was dark. Blinded, Chi Lin’s other senses sharpened. She smelled Lou Mi’s perfume, the cool, crisp scent she loved.

“You haven’t even explained, and you’ve already decided I won’t understand?”

Lou Mi’s voice, so close, made Chi Lin realize how close they were.

“It’s a bit complicated…” Chi Lin forced herself to remain calm, not wanting her voice to betray her anxiety.

“You’re very calm,” Lou Mi said, pressing closer.

Chi Lin had nowhere to retreat, their bodies flush against each other. As she tried to pull away, Lou Mi grabbed her arm, pinning her in place.

“Where do you think you’re going? You’re not going anywhere until you explain everything.”

Chi Lin had never seen this aggressive side of Lou Mi. She was completely taken aback.

It was like…

“Have you been drinking?” Chi Lin asked.

“Do you smell alcohol on me?” Lou Mi chuckled coldly. Before Chi Lin could reply, she felt a warmth on her lips. Lou Mi was kissing her.

Not a gentle peck, but a forceful, demanding, almost savage kiss.

Chi Lin found herself unable to resist, surrendering to the kiss.

“So, do you smell alcohol?” Lou Mi paused, giving her a chance to breathe.

Before Chi Lin could answer, the kiss resumed, deeper this time. Lou Mi’s body was burning hot, pressing against Chi Lin, her hands unsure where to go.

As the kiss deepened, Chi Lin’s mind snapped back to reality. She pushed against Lou Mi’s shoulders, a gesture of resistance.

Lou Mi stopped. “You don’t like it?”

Chi Lin’s eyes, adjusting to the darkness, noticed Lou Mi was wearing the camisole slip she’d deemed “indecent.”

Pressing Chi Lin’s wrist against the wall, Lou Mi whispered in her ear, “Did you find in someone else what you couldn’t find in me?”

Chi Lin’s heart ached. She looked at Lou Mi, her eyes shimmering in the dim light.

“Have you given up on me?” Lou Mi asked.

Chi Lin shook her head. “No…”

“Then why are you rejecting me?”

Chi Lin couldn’t answer, completely under Lou Mi’s control.

“You clearly feel it. Do you know what your expression looks like right now?”

“Lou Mi…”

“If you don’t like me, tell me now. Tell me you don’t like me, not even a little.”

She couldn’t say it.

Seeing through her, Lou Mi smiled triumphantly.

The smile, the embrace, the overwhelming possessiveness – this was the real Lou Mi, the Her Majesty she knew.

As if returning to her wife’s embrace, Chi Lin surrendered, letting herself be guided, enveloped in her love.

Chapter 66

In the broadcasting building’s lounge, the team went into pre-game mode.

Their first match was against Sturm, the German team.

The live stream was scheduled to begin in an hour. Following their usual routine, they went over their strategy one last time. Then, turning off all communication devices, they entered the dedicated streaming room, settled into their gaming chairs, attached their access crystals, and began warming up in the game.

The WeChat message Lou Mi had sent half an hour ago remained unanswered. Even before seeing the online gossip, Lou Mi had sensed a shift in Chi Lin’s attention. Lou Mi wanted answers, but she couldn’t bring herself to ask.

On the way to the broadcasting building, Lou Mi sat in the back row of the bus. When Xie Buyu tried to join her, Lou Mi pushed her away.

“What’s wrong, Mi-jie? The match is about to start, we should be bonding. Why are you pushing me away?” Xie Buyu whined.

Lou Mi couldn’t bring herself to smile. “I want to be alone.”

“Oh…”

Xie Buyu often bickered with Lou Mi; playful banter was part of Nine Heavens’ dynamic. But Lou Mi was usually overly energetic before matches, never this subdued. Of course, Xie Buyu knew about Chi Lin. The rumors were all over the internet.

Valuing her life, Xie Buyu wisely retreated, leaving Lou Mi alone.

Pulling her hoodie over her eyes, Lou Mi stared at Chi Lin’s WeChat profile picture: the snarling Demon Child Nori. She used to think the picture suited the little rascal. Now, Chi Lin’s demeanor had changed, but her talent for causing trouble had simply become more subtle, more internalized. The method had changed, but the impact hadn’t lessened; it was even more agonizing.

“Where are you?”

After much deliberation, Lou Mi settled on this innocuous question. Chi Lin was an adult now. It wasn’t Lou Mi’s place, or even Peng Ziyuan’s, to demand her whereabouts. What right did Lou Mi, as her older sister figure, have to ask?

But she desperately wanted to know. Even a single word from Chi Lin would bring her some peace of mind.

Yet, right up until the last second before the match, as Lou Mi attached the access crystal to her temple, Chi Lin still hadn’t replied.

Her teammates closed their eyes, entering the game world. The game interface flashed in Lou Mi’s mind, but she still clutched her smuggled phone.

The live stream viewership soared past a hundred million. Everyone wondered why HighTowerMiyuki hadn’t appeared yet.

In the game, both teams were on boats, traversing a fog-shrouded sea, heading towards the designated map: Five Finger Mountain.

Five Finger Mountain was known for its treacherous terrain. Besides their opponents, players also faced the constant threat of deadly cliffs and molten lava below.

It was one of the top five most difficult maps, and no one wanted to face HighTowerMiyuki in such a harsh environment. She was, after all, the woman who could conquer even the Snowy Peak.

Standing at the bow of the boat, her twin tails whipping in the wind, Xie Buyu, already freezing, inexplicably fanned herself with two sharp white fans. Mid-fan, she seemed to realize the absurdity of her actions and put them away.

The sea ahead began to clear, signaling their approach to the shore.

The commentators introduced both teams in Chinese, English, and German. Then, to avoid influencing the game, all external communication was cut off.

If they were unlucky, they could encounter the German team the moment they landed, leading to an immediate confrontation. Heightened vigilance was required, but Xie Buyu noticed Lou Mi, who had been present just moments ago, was now offline.

Despite her outward calm, Xie Buyu was sweating nervously. She asked Fu Tu, “Where’s Mi-jie?”

Fu Tu opened one eye, glanced around, then immediately returned to the game. “Mi-jie’s on her phone.”

Xie Buyu’s hair practically stood on end. “What?! We’re about to land, and she’s on her phone?! Didn’t Lan-jie confiscate it?!”

Fu Tu: “I don’t think so… I don’t know.”

“Go take it from her.”

“Why don’t you go?”

“I don’t dare to.”

“So you dare to send me? As if I’d be any braver.”

Hu Hu remained silent. Their way of arguing is something else, she thought. Others compete to be brave, these two compete to be cowardly.

Watching the live stream in another room, Zhuo Jinglan, Slay, and the rest of the club staff grew increasingly impatient with Lou Mi’s absence. Finally, unable to wait any longer, Zhuo Jinglan barreled through several broadcasting staff members and stormed into the player area.

Lou Mi lay in her chair, access crystal attached, eyes still open. She only put down her phone as Zhuo Jinglan entered.

Zhuo Jinglan grabbed the arms of her chair, her fury barely contained. If the chair hadn’t been so sturdy, she would have shaken Lou Mi and the chair to pieces. “Are you kidding me?! This is the World Cup! And you’re on your phone?!”

Lou Mi raised an eyebrow, just as the referee and several assistants rushed in, waving their hands frantically. “You are in violation! No one except the players is allowed in here!” they shouted in heavily accented Mandarin.

Zhuo Jinglan: “I’ll just say a few words and leave.”

“Leave immediately!”

Zhuo Jinglan was practically dragged out, ejected not just from the player area but from the entire broadcasting room, relegated to the spectator area.

Lou Mi realized her phone was gone, snatched by Zhuo Jinglan. Her speed and skill would make any pickpocket envious.

The moment HighTowerMiyuki logged in, the live stream comments exploded, the viewership spiking.

HighTowerMiyuki, wielding a flamethrower, stood silently at the highest point of the bow, her black hair whipping in the wind. Her sharp eyes scanned the surroundings. With a roar, her flamethrower unleashed a massive fire dragon that coiled protectively around her. Her first skill was charged.

Even after her earlier distraction, HighTowerMiyuki was still HighTowerMiyuki. Once in the game, she regained her focus faster than anyone.

Xie Buyu: “Mi-jie, is this your way of relieving stress? It’s not funny, I almost had a heart attack!”

Ignoring her, Lou Mi, gazing at the dense fog, asked Hu Hu for the Mountain Ridge Shield.

The instant she received it, a beam of white light shot through the fog, aimed directly at Xie Buyu’s chest!

Viewers, just settling in with their snacks, were caught completely off guard. Sturm had launched a surprise attack!

Not just the viewers, but even the seasoned professionals of Nine Heavens hadn’t anticipated such a brazen move before they even landed.

Only HighTowerMiyuki had foreseen it, using Hu Hu’s Mountain Ridge Shield to block the devastating blow, saving Xie Buyu’s life. Otherwise, Nine Heavens would have lost their healer from the start, making the match almost unwinnable.

Targeting the healer at the start was a bizarre tactic. With the dense fog and distance, a precise attack was impossible; it was a blind shot, hoping to take out anyone, with the healer being the biggest prize.

The white light struck the shield, erupting in a blinding flash.

Viewers shielded their eyes. When the light subsided and the image returned, Nine Heavens had vanished.

Their boat was empty.

“Where are they?!”

Sitting in the spectator area, Zhuo Jinglan smirked at the panicked cries around her. Even with Lou Mi’s distracted state and Sturm’s surprise attack, Lou Mi’s skill and Nine Heavens’ prowess weren’t so easily overcome.

No one had ever managed to draw first blood against Lou Mi.

First blood always belonged to HighTowerMiyuki.

The camera switched to Sturm’s boat.

The damaged Mountain Ridge Shield, like a giant boomerang, sliced through the fog, spinning at high speed. Sturm’s tank intercepted it, but the shield’s stun effect momentarily paralyzed them.

Half a second was an eternity in esports. By the time Sturm’s tank recovered, Nine Heavens had already reached their backline. Lou Mi’s flamethrower pierced Sturm’s DPS, sending them plummeting into the lava.

In the blink of an eye, HighTowerMiyuki had claimed first blood!

Sturm had a double DPS lineup. The other DPS tried to attack Lou Mi from behind, but Fu Tu’s axe sent them reeling.

Nine Heavens’ tank, the indomitable Fu Tu, guarded Lou Mi’s back. As long as she was alive, no one could touch Lou Mi.

Nine Heavens’ team fights were renowned for their ferocity and perfect coordination.

Before the boats even reached the shore, the battle had begun.

The live stream comments erupted, the commentators raising their voices in excitement.

…

Countless screens across the city broadcast the match. Office workers and students alike stopped to cheer as HighTowerMiyuki secured first blood.

“HighTowerMiyuki is still the best! Who said she’s past her prime? Eat your words!”

“She’s still a beast, even without A Bao.”

“Lou Jiejie conquers the world!”

The deafening cheers finally forced Chi Lin to stop running, gasping for air. She had initially planned to drive, but the navigation showed heavy traffic due to an accident on the route to the broadcasting building. It was only eight kilometers, so she decided to run.

If it were her own body, she would have reached the building long ago. But she was still three kilometers away. Her legs burned, her lungs felt like they were on fire. She had no choice but to stop. Even after all her training, this body wasn’t as strong as she’d hoped.

Leaning against a wall, Chi Lin caught her breath, then continued, her legs still wobbly. She switched to a fast walk, afraid she might collapse if she tried to run again.

Fortunately, she was near the coast. Giant screens on the skyscrapers displayed the live stream of Nine Heavens’ match. As she walked, she watched Lou Mi’s virtual character fighting valiantly.

Lou Mi was performing brilliantly, quickly gaining control of the match. Chi Lin felt a wave of relief.

But Lou Mi wouldn’t see the message she’d just sent.

Chi Lin hadn’t anticipated being photographed. Unaware of the speed of online gossip, she hadn’t realized that a few meetings with Tan Luo would turn into a scandal, even reaching Lou Mi’s Weibo comments.

Lou Mi must have seen them, which is why she’d asked where she was.

The poem, the birthmark, and Tan Luo’s fondness for Fu Xuan Zi had piqued Chi Lin’s curiosity. The similarities between Tan Luo and Her Majesty, while subtle, were unsettling.

What if Tan Luo really is Her Majesty? The thought had crossed Chi Lin’s mind.

Being with Lou Mi was comfortable and familiar, a sense of unspoken understanding and gentle warmth. Tan Luo was different, wielding seemingly irrefutable evidence.

Chi Lin questioned herself: should she trust her intuition, or the evidence?

Tan Luo had even mentioned the moles under her eyes.

“Has anyone ever told you how beautiful and alluring those moles are?” Tan Luo, as always, had been incredibly talkative during their second meeting. Out of thousands of words, that one sentence had caught Chi Lin’s attention, the reason she’d agreed to meet.

The original Chi Lin had moles under her eyes, in the same location as hers. The original’s were black, hers were reddish.

Today, Tan Luo had invited her to the library. Unaware of Lou Mi’s match, Chi Lin had accepted. She had also recovered the lost data from her cloud storage, including some historical records she needed to verify at the library.

“Did you know there was a dynasty called ‘Yuan’?”

As Chi Lin entered the history section in the basement, Tan Luo followed, holding a book she didn’t seem to be reading. As Chi Lin reached for a book on the shelf, Tan Luo spoke.

Chi Lin turned around, surprised. “Where did you hear about that dynasty?”

Tan Luo smiled for a moment before answering. “In a dream.”

Chi Lin: “…”

“In my dream, I was born and raised in that dynasty. It was my home. The capital was incredibly prosperous, with two bustling markets attracting merchants from all over the world. And there was a beautiful moat lined with willow trees… yes, willow trees, I think. After I woke up, I looked it up, and I actually found some information. But there’s very little about it, no concrete evidence it even existed.”

“And?” Chi Lin stopped reaching for the book, urging her to continue.

Tan Luo closed her book and hugged it to her chest, slowly circling Chi Lin, her gaze on the ceiling, as if lost in thought. “My dreams aren’t very clear, and I don’t have them often. But when I do, they’re like a TV series, the settings are always the same, but the people are different.”

“Who’s in your dreams?”

Tan Luo: “A little girl. No, two little girls. I’m a child in my dream, studying with another child. For some reason, she’s very respectful towards me. Hey, maybe that was my past life. I must have been rich and powerful, why else would she treat me so well?”

Chi Lin remained silent, pondering Tan Luo’s words.

Tan Luo suddenly leaned closer, placing a hand on Chi Lin’s shoulder. “I think that little girl who was so nice to me… she looks a lot like you. You both have those beautiful moles under your eyes.”

Chi Lin stared at Tan Luo as her face drew closer.

…

She and Her Majesty were not just lovers, but childhood confidantes. The two markets and the moat in the capital were their favorite haunts. Her Majesty had often said she was particularly drawn to two parts of Chi Lin’s body: her eyes and the moles beneath them.

Tan Luo seemed to be hitting all the right notes.

Her face was now well within Chi Lin’s personal space, but Chi Lin didn’t flinch.

Based on past experience, Tan Luo assumed Chi Lin wouldn’t reject her this time. This docile Chi Lin was even more tempting than her usual aloof self…

Chapter 65

“Why did you send me those two lines of poetry?” Chi Lin asked.

“Eat the ice cream, and I’ll tell you.”

Chi Lin glanced at the small cone and ate it in one bite. “Now you can tell me.”

“My, Xiao Chi Lin, so fierce. There’s no romance at all,” Tan Luo complained. Even though Chi Lin had complied, she still avoided answering the question.

“I never agreed to a date with you in the first place.”

Tan Luo waved her phone. “Really? I even bought movie tickets. Are you sure you don’t want to go? Maybe I’ll tell you after the movie.”

Chi Lin knew Tan Luo wouldn’t reveal anything easily, and saw no point in arguing. Watching a movie was no different from watching TV at home. If Tan Luo confessed afterwards, great. If not, Chi Lin had her own ways of making her talk.

Chi Lin tentatively agreed.

Tan Luo hummed cheerfully as she walked towards the cinema, Chi Lin trailing slowly behind.

“They’re really going to the cinema?” Wei Zhuoning was incredulous. “Why?!”

Lin Xiaozhi: “I don’t think Chi Lin is very willing. If it were a real date, they wouldn’t be walking separately. Come on, let’s keep following.”

Tan Luo bought a mountain of popcorn and drinks, struggling to carry it all, and asked Chi Lin for help.

Hands in her pockets, Chi Lin showed no inclination to assist.

“As cold as ever,” Tan Luo muttered, carrying everything herself.

Lin Xiaozhi bought two hats for disguise and tickets for the next three movies, ensuring they could follow them inside.

At the ticket counter, Tan Luo called out to Chi Lin and went in.

Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning, heads down, followed closely behind.

The movie was a cheesy romance. The cinema was mostly empty, allowing Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning to sit diagonally behind Tan Luo.

Chi Lin entered at the last minute and sat in the front row. Tan Luo, laden with popcorn and drinks, joined her.

As the lights dimmed, Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning could only see their heads. Tan Luo’s head was particularly restless, constantly leaning towards Chi Lin.

Wei Zhuoning: “I should have brought a gun!”

Lin Xiaozhi patted her leg. “Calm down. Chi Lin didn’t sit with her, which proves my point. Tan Luo is cunning, she must have tricked Chi Lin somehow.”

Wei Zhuoning swore, “If Tan Luo lays a finger on Chi Lin, I’ll…”

Chi Lin stared blankly at the screen. Seeing her coldness, Tan Luo, finding no amusement in it, focused on her popcorn.

“Those two lines of poetry… they’re from my favorite poem,” Tan Luo’s voice, barely audible over the movie dialogue, forced Chi Lin to strain to hear. “‘My head rests on the mountain, my silken quilt is cold, I awake to the fading night.’ Is that why you agreed to see me?”

Chi Lin didn’t reply, but her silence was an answer.

“Gold sparrow hairpin, face powdered red, a brief encounter amidst the flowers. You know my heart, you sense my longing, this love we must ask heaven about. Incense forms tassels, wax forms tears, reflecting the hearts of two. My head rests on the mountain, my silken quilt is cold, I awake to the fading night.”

Her Majesty had sent Chi Lin this poem during her first expedition, a poem of longing delivered across miles. Upon receiving the handwritten poem, Chi Lin had been battling a severe cold, but the war allowed no respite. After two sleepless nights, the poem, every word infused with Her Majesty’s yearning, transported Chi Lin back to the capital, to the gardens they frequented. It was as if she could see her lonely Majesty before her.

Whenever she thought of this poem, Chi Lin felt a pang in her heart. It held immense significance for both of them.

Tan Luo using the last line as her friend request message might seem like childish chuunibyou to others. But for Chi Lin, it was a critical hit.

Why would Tan Luo send her this poem? There was no way Tan Luo could know the secret shared between her and Her Majesty. Could there be such a coincidence?

Chi Lin was determined to uncover the truth, but her instinctive dislike for Tan Luo kept her distant.

“If you feel this connection with me, why are you so distant?” Tan Luo leaned closer. “Are you shy, Xiao Chi Lin?”

Wei Zhuoning: “What the—?!”

Chi Lin shifted her head away from Tan Luo.

Unfazed, Tan Luo changed the subject. “If you don’t want cola, how about trying my special tea?” She pulled out a thermos from her bag, opened it, and offered it to Chi Lin. “Smell it. It’s a familiar scent.”

Chi Lin smelled Fu Xuan Zi.

“Ugh, what is that smell? It’s awful,” Wei Zhuoning, several rows back, pinched her nose.

Chi Lin looked at Tan Luo, her expression complex. “This is…?”

“After trying the tea you made at the library, I couldn’t forget it. I wanted to ask for the recipe, but you ignored me, so I had to experiment myself.”

“How did you make it?”

“You know better than I do. Why ask me? Isn’t Fu Xuan Zi the key ingredient?” Tan Luo said. “It was so hard to find! I practically went to every herbal shop, my nose almost giving out before I found it. Luckily, it has a distinct smell, hard to forget. Just like you, Xiao Chi Lin.”

Chi Lin: “?”

“It took a lot of effort, but I got it in the end, didn’t I?”

Chi Lin’s skin crawled. It was definitely the same creepy Tan Luo. But her dedication to finding Fu Xuan Zi was unexpected. Chi Lin had sensed a similarity between Tan Luo’s frivolousness and Her Majesty’s, but she hated associating Her Majesty with Tan Luo.

Tan Luo: “Try it. See how my tea compares to yours.”

Chi Lin: “No, thank you. I’m not thirsty.” She, like most people, couldn’t stand the smell of Fu Xuan Zi.

“Then I’ll enjoy it myself.”

“Please do.”

Chi Lin noticed, out of the corner of her eye, that Tan Luo actually drank it all, even licking her lips afterwards.

…

Chi Lin had no idea what the movie was about. Afterwards, Tan Luo chattered about the beauty and figure of the female lead.

Chi Lin couldn’t muster any enthusiasm. Logically, she should have bombarded Tan Luo with questions. After all, Tan Luo had just presented a crucial clue, the “connection” Chi Lin had been searching for. It was the most direct evidence she’d found since arriving in this era.

She believed in coincidences, but when faced with one this significant, suspicion was her first reaction. Perhaps it was simply her dislike for Tan Luo. If Lou Mi had recited that poem, she might have already bowed down and called her “Your Majesty.” The thought made Chi Lin chuckle softly.

Seeing her smile, Tan Luo mistook it for interest and pressed her advantage. “We must have been a couple in a past life.”

Chi Lin looked at her warily. “What nonsense…”

“Why else would it be so coincidental? You’re Chi, I’m Tan. Aren’t we a match made in heaven?”

Chi Lin: “…” Is it too late to change my surname?

Tan Luo suggested dinner, but Chi Lin claimed she had already eaten and wasn’t hungry.

“If there’s nothing else, I’ll be going.”

Tan Luo didn’t press the issue. “Oh, okay. I’ll walk you back.”

“No need, I drove here.”

“Then give me a ride?”

Chi Lin: “It’s not convenient.”

Tan Luo stroked her chin, studying Chi Lin. “So you only came because of that poem, and you still hate me. Let me guess, what’s so special about that poem?”

Chi Lin: “Don’t overthink it. I just wanted to understand something.”

Tan Luo reached out to pat her shoulder, a comforting gesture.

But the moment her hand moved, Chi Lin grabbed her wrist.

Tan Luo winced in pain, surprised. She tried to pull her arm back, but couldn’t. She was no match for Chi Lin’s strength, but she wasn’t weak either. The sudden struggle pulled her collar askew.

“Oops.” Looking down, Tan Luo saw two buttons had popped open, revealing her right breast.

Just as Chi Lin was about to avert her gaze, she noticed a birthmark on Tan Luo’s right chest.

Unfazed by her exposed skin, Tan Luo maintained her signature smile. “Xiao Chi Lin, you’re quite forward, ripping my clothes off like this.”

Chi Lin hadn’t realized her grip was tightening. Tan Luo’s smile faltered. “Xiao Chi Lin… you’re really strong. If you break my hand, there won’t be any happiness for us in the future.”

Chi Lin could guess how grim her expression must be. “Why… do you have a birthmark there?”

Tan Luo glanced down. “Ask my mother, not me.”

“Have you always had it?”

“…If I got it two days ago, it wouldn’t be a birthmark, it would be a tattoo.” Tan Luo adjusted her clothes, pleading, “My hand is about to break. Have mercy!”

Seeing Tan Luo pleading reminded Chi Lin of Her Majesty begging for forgiveness. As if pricked by a needle, Chi Lin instantly released her grip.

Tan Luo rubbed her aching wrist, taking a step back. “I wasn’t trying to take advantage of you, I just wanted to comfort you. So much for good intentions. I almost lost a hand.”

Seeing glimpses of Her Majesty in Tan Luo’s mannerisms, Chi Lin turned and walked away without another word.

“Hey, Xiao Chi Lin!” Tan Luo called after her, but Chi Lin didn’t stop.

“Let’s do this again sometime,” Tan Luo added cheerfully, flexing her wrist.

…

Wei Zhuoning sat on a bench in the mall, legs outstretched, her gaze vacant. “Do you think Lou Jiejie knows about this?”

Lin Xiaozhi, leaning against her shoulder, sipped her drink. “I’m not a psychic, I don’t know what’s going on in Lou Jiejie’s head.”

Wei Zhuoning was deeply affected, struggling to process Chi Lin’s meeting with Tan Luo. Ignoring Lin Xiaozhi’s attempts to comfort her, she continued to mutter, “Even though we couldn’t hear them, it was obvious Chi Lin didn’t want to be there. How did Tan Luo coerce her?”

Lin Xiaozhi: “I told you, Tan Luo is a scumbag through and through. Nothing she does would surprise me.”

Checking her phone, Wei Zhuoning’s worry deepened. “The Winter World Cup is just around the corner. Nine Heavens’ first match is in three days. I hope Lou Jiejie doesn’t find out about this. It could affect her performance.”

…

Getting into her car and setting the navigation for “home,” Chi Lin noticed her voice was still shaky. As the car ascended from the parking garage, the sunlight warmed her chilled body, her blood slowly regaining its normal flow.

The evidence she’d been desperately searching for on Lou Mi, the proof she’d meticulously sought to confirm, was nowhere to be found, yet it had appeared on someone completely unexpected.

Her Majesty’s birthmark was on her left chest, Tan Luo’s on the right. The location wasn’t the same. Tan Luo’s was also light gray, not the pink of Her Majesty’s. But the shape was very similar. Just like her own birthmark differed from the original Chi Lin’s.

Chi Lin stared at her pale reflection in the car window.

Lou Mi had been her primary focus. Even without definitive proof, she had almost started treating Lou Mi as Her Majesty. It was like sailing on the open sea, finally finding a direction, sailing towards salvation, seeing land, feeling rescue was imminent, only to be told: You’ve been going the wrong way. That’s not your destination.

Chi Lin had made many important decisions in her life. Now, she stood at another crossroads.

She lowered the car’s temperature. Warmth and comfort weren’t conducive to thinking. Besides, she was never bothered by the cold.

…

Finding herself restless at home, Lou Mi went to the ENIAC club.

With the Winter World Cup imminent, Zhuo Jinglan had wanted Lou Mi to rest, but Lou Mi couldn’t sit still.

Besides boredom, she was also slightly worried about their newly recruited trainee, Slay, last year’s Rookie of the Year.

Despite his aggressive gaming ID and fierce playstyle, Slay was quite timid in person, slightly chubby, wearing glasses, and blushing furiously during matches.

He excelled in 1v1, but his style wasn’t initially a good fit for Nine Heavens. Lou Mi and the team had been working on integrating him into their strategy, and he was gradually adapting, his teamwork improving.

Arriving at the club, Lou Mi saw Slay emerging from the shower, wearing baggy shorts, his wet hair sticking up. Surprised to see her, and embarrassed by his casual attire, he stammered a greeting. “M-Mi-jie! What are you doing here?”

Lou Mi discreetly averted her gaze. “Didn’t you go home?”

“Uh, I slept late last night, so I just stayed here.”

Just then, Hu Hu emerged from the lounge, yawning loudly, equally surprised to see Lou Mi. “Huh? Mi-jie’s here?” Xie Buyu and Fu Tu came downstairs, looking like they hadn’t slept at all.

“What are you doing here?” Xie Buyu asked. “Shouldn’t you be resting at home?”

Lou Mi: “I see. I’m the only one who’s supposed to rest, while you guys are all training overtime?”

Fu Tu: “We’re young, we have plenty of energy. A few all-nighters won’t hurt us. You’re not like us, old lady. You need more rest.”

Lou Mi grabbed her neck, making her squeal and reach out to Xie Buyu for help. “Aren’t you going to save me?!”

Lou Mi: “Why would she save you?”

Xie Buyu actually intervened. “Mi-jie, be the bigger person. Don’t bother with this idiot.”

Fu Tu: “You’re the idiot.”

Her retort lacked force, sounding more like a coquettish complaint.

Lou Mi: “…Wait a minute. How long has it been since I last saw you two? What’s with the public display of affection?”

Taking advantage of her distraction, Fu Tu slipped from her grasp and hid behind Xie Buyu.

Xie Buyu explained, “Mi-jie, what are you thinking? Don’t project your own romantic fantasies onto us.”

Lou Mi: “???” Who’s having romantic fantasies? I’m here because I’m lonely and miserable!

And you two are practically glued together, and you blame me for overthinking?

Hu Hu was texting his girlfriend, Slay video-chatting with his. Lou Mi looked around, realizing she was likely to retain her title as ENIAC’s reigning single for the foreseeable future.

Since she was there, she reviewed opponent footage and ran simulations late into the night, only leaving when Zhuo Jinglan shooed them out.

Exhausted, Lou Mi returned home. Lou Lixing and Peng Ziyuan were watching TV in the living room. Chi Lin was nowhere to be seen.

“Where’s Chi Lin?” she asked Peng Ziyuan.

“Xiao Lin is already asleep,” Peng Ziyuan replied. “She seemed tired today. She went to bed after dinner.”

“Oh…” Lou Mi mumbled listlessly, took a shower, and went to bed early.

For the next few days, Lou Mi was consumed with preparations for their first match, practically living at the club. She messaged Chi Lin, and Chi Lin replied, their conversations limited to mundane greetings and inquiries about meals and sleep.

Lou Mi had never been in a relationship, but she wasn’t completely clueless. Ever since Chi Lin’s abrupt departure that day, the budding warmth between them had frozen.

Zhuo Jinglan, always attuned to her team’s moods, was particularly sensitive to Lou Mi’s state. During a lunch break, when they were alone, she asked, “Lou Mi, are you okay?”

“What do you mean?”

“You seem off. You even made mistakes in the practice match this morning.”

“Those weren’t mistakes. I deliberately let some monsters through so Fu Tu could get a multi-kill with her ultimate. Efficiency.”

“Don’t give me that. I can’t argue with your logic, I admit it. But the first match is tomorrow. The whole world is watching us, watching you. I’m not trying to pressure you, but… I wanted you to retire before. Why are you putting yourself through this? Isn’t it for the Winter World Cup points, for your last season next year? If we lose the first match and get eliminated, all your effort will be wasted. Competitive sports are brutal, it’s either win or lose. You should understand this better than anyone.”

Lou Mi nodded. “I understand.”

Seeing her reluctance to elaborate, Zhuo Jinglan dropped the subject, letting Lou Mi sort out her emotions.

Lou Mi’s performance improved in the afternoon, easing Zhuo Jinglan’s worries.

The next morning, everyone at the club gathered for breakfast. To lighten the mood, they told jokes.

Lou Mi’s phone buzzed constantly with messages from family and friends. On Weibo, her most recent post was still the photo with Chi Lin, flooded with encouraging comments from fans.

“Lou Jiejie! You got this!”

“Nine Heavens all the way!”

“Lou Jiejie, don’t feel pressured, just play your best!”

“Don’t let anything else distract you, focus on the game!”

“Hey, upstairs, don’t talk about unnecessary things, okay?”

Lou Mi, initially scrolling quickly through the comments, stopped and scrolled back.

Anything else? What things?

Clicking on the profile of the commenter who’d mentioned distractions, she found a wall of hateful comments directed at Chi Lin.

“Xue Cai CP is over. I’m so full of anger, I could burst.”

“Lou Mi has always been amazing to her. When she was bullied at school, Lou Mi stood up for her, even posting about it on Weibo. How many fans’ hearts did she break? How many followers did she lose? How much hate did she get? I cried my eyes out. But if that’s what Lou Mi wanted, we supported her. As long as Chi Lin treated Lou Mi well, we were fine with it. But what did Chi Lin do? She’s a total ingrate! Going on dates with someone else while Lou Mi is preparing for the World Cup? I have one question: does Chi Lin even have a conscience?”

Lou Mi knew “CL” referred to Chi Lin, but…

Chi Lin on dates with someone else?

Scrolling further, past dozens of hateful comments, she saw a retweet.

A marketing account had posted four photos. The person in the photos was indeed Chi Lin.

Chi Lin sat on a park bench with a woman, the woman’s arm casually draped across the back of the bench, as if she was embracing Chi Lin. There were other photos of them at the mall and an amusement park. The implication was clear: Chi Lin had been spending time with this woman.

“Mi-jie?” Hu Hu called her repeatedly, but she didn’t respond.

“Mi-jie?!” Xie Buyu raised her voice. Lou Mi looked up.

“Let’s go,” Xie Buyu said, already in her team uniform, ready to head to the live stream studio.

Everyone had finished breakfast and left, leaving Lou Mi sitting alone.

“Yeah, you guys go ahead. I’ll get changed.” Lou Mi put her phone in her pocket and went to the locker room.

Chapter 64

Lou Lixing and Peng Ziyuan cheerfully brought out youtiao (fried dough sticks) and congee. Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning thanked them in unison.

“Don’t mention it! Make yourselves at home,” Peng Ziyuan beamed, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “Xiao Lin rarely brings friends home. I’m so glad you’re here. She’s become much more cheerful. You should come over more often. It’s so wonderful that Xiao Lin has made friends…”

Tears welled up in Peng Ziyuan’s eyes. “I was always so worried she didn’t have any friends…”

Lou Mi: “Auntie, you’re going to scare them. Do you want them to come over or not?”

Lou Lixing quickly handed her a tissue.

Dabbing her eyes, Peng Ziyuan said, “Don’t mind me. I have a flair for the dramatic. Eat up, everyone.”

Lin Xiaozhi: “Auntie is so sweet, just like my mom. Very expressive.”

Wei Zhuoning, having a few spoonfuls of congee, became curious about Lin Xiaozhi’s mother. She wondered who Lin Xiaozhi took after, her father or her mother.

Lin Xiaozhi whispered in her ear, “Don’t worry, my mom is very down-to-earth. You two will definitely get along.”

Wei Zhuoning wanted to retort, but remembering the supposed etiquette of the upper class – no talking while eating – she held back, afraid of being bothersome.

After breakfast, Lou Lixing and Peng Ziyuan left for work. Wei Zhuoning asked Chi Lin and Lou Mi if they wanted to go out together.

It was a genuine invitation, but Lin Xiaozhi, standing behind her, frowned and nudged Wei Zhuoning, making faces at Chi Lin and Lou Mi.

Chi Lin and Lou Mi looked past Wei Zhuoning, catching Lin Xiaozhi’s signals. “Should we… go or not?”

Wei Zhuoning turned around, confused. “Huh?”

Lin Xiaozhi resumed her normal expression. “Let’s go together! Isn’t going out the whole point of holidays? Or do you two want to have a romantic day at home? How enviable.”

Wei Zhuoning: “…”

Lou Mi wanted to high-five Lin Xiaozhi. She wasn’t particularly keen on hanging out with high schoolers, especially after last night’s chaos. She preferred a quiet day at home with Chi Lin.

“You two go ahead. Chi Lin and I have to visit her grandparents today,” she said, making up an excuse.

Lin Xiaozhi seamlessly responded, “That’s too bad. Another time, then. Zhuoning, let’s go.”

As they left, Wei Zhuoning pinched Lin Xiaozhi’s arm. “What was that? So rude.”

“Couldn’t you tell they wanted to be alone?”

“We should still be polite.”

“Barely an adult, and you’ve already mastered adult hypocrisy? Isn’t efficiency better?”

“…” Wei Zhuoning realized she might have some misconceptions about rich kids. Lin Xiaozhi, Chi Lin, and Lou Mi all seemed to live much more freely than she did.

They had both changed out of their costumes. Lin Xiaozhi had brought a change of clothes, and Wei Zhuoning borrowed a hoodie from Chi Lin. Both wore thick down jackets.

Lin Xiaozhi: “Chi Lin’s hoodie is too big for you. Are you even 160cm tall?”

Wei Zhuoning: “…Does height really matter?”

“Not really, as long as I’m over 170cm.”

“?”

“That averages out to 165cm for our future kids.”

“…K-Kids? Are you on rocket fuel? Why are you thinking so far ahead?”

“How is that far ahead? We’re both adults now, we could get married today. We could snag a spot in the NAC and have kids in no time. Want to pick out names today?”

Lin Xiaozhi was clearly teasing, but Wei Zhuoning’s face turned serious. “Children are living beings, you can’t just casually decide to have them.”

Wei Zhuoning boarded the bus, and Lin Xiaozhi followed. The bus from Longrun Gardens was mostly empty, occupied mainly by elderly people.

Wei Zhuoning sat in the back row, and Lin Xiaozhi squeezed in beside her.

“Did I say something wrong?”

Wei Zhuoning looked out the window.

Lin Xiaozhi said earnestly, “I didn’t mean to be flippant about having kids. If it were our child, I would cherish them forever.”

Wei Zhuoning: “You didn’t do anything wrong. It’s my issue.”

“You don’t like kids?”

“It’s not that.” Wei Zhuoning said, “I’ve never told you about my family. I…” Hesitating for a moment, she finally found the courage. “I’m from a single-parent family. I’ve never met my father. He’s a scumbag who ran off before I was born.”

Lin Xiaozhi quietly watched her.

Wei Zhuoning: “Did you know already?”

“No,” Lin Xiaozhi said. “How would I know? It’s not that unusual. Lots of people are from single-parent families. Chi Lin, too.”

“It’s different. Her father passed away. Mine ran away.” Hugging her knees, Wei Zhuoning practically disappeared inside her oversized jacket. “I never knew what kind of person he was.”

“Haven’t you asked your mom?”

Wei Zhuoning shook her head. “I don’t want to bring up painful memories for her. She gave birth to me alone in the hospital. She sacrificed so much for me. Without me, her life would have been so much better…”

“So you’ve always felt unimportant, like a burden?”

The winter sunlight streaming through the bus window turned Wei Zhuoning’s pupils amber. “I’m a burden to my mom. It’s the truth.”

Lin Xiaozhi slipped her hand inside Wei Zhuoning’s sleeve, holding her cold hand tightly.

“When are you taking me to meet your mom? I want to thank her in person.”

“What…?”

“For bringing the best person in the world into my life.”

Under Lin Xiaozhi’s gentle gaze, Wei Zhuoning’s face flushed crimson. “There’s nothing special about me. I’m incredibly ordinary…”

“Are you fishing for compliments?”

Wei Zhuoning couldn’t help but smile. “No, I’m not.”

Lin Xiaozhi continued to reveal her feelings. “I’ve had a crush on you since middle school.”

Wei Zhuoning couldn’t believe it. “Impossible.”

“I have proof.”

Lin Xiaozhi showed Wei Zhuoning a photo on her phone.

It was Wei Zhuoning in her middle school uniform, sitting at her desk, taking notes with a stylus, her brow slightly furrowed in concentration, looking a bit silly. Taken from a distance, it was a close-up of her face, every detail clear.

Wei Zhuoning’s eyes widened. “Holy crap, that’s really me.”

“I have over a hundred photos like this.”

“Lin Xiaozhi, are you a creep?!” Mortified, Wei Zhuoning practically yelled, her outburst turning heads on the bus.

Meeting their gazes, Lin Xiaozhi responded indulgently, “If you say I am, then I am.”

They continued their playful banter all the way to the mall. Wei Zhuoning insisted she delete the photos. “You didn’t have my permission! That’s invasion of privacy!”

“Yes, I’m not denying it. It was sneaky.”

“Then you should delete them!”

“I took them fair and square, why should I delete them?”

Lin Xiaozhi, light on her feet, easily dodged Wei Zhuoning’s attempts to grab her phone.

Out of breath, Wei Zhuoning resolved to exercise more, at least enough to catch Lin Xiaozhi.

Lin Xiaozhi, who had been casually dodging, was surprised Wei Zhuoning couldn’t keep up. Smiling, she reached out to take her hand, when she noticed Wei Zhuoning’s expression suddenly change.

Someone had reached out from behind Lin Xiaozhi and wrapped an arm around her waist.

“Xiao Zhi.”

Without even looking, Lin Xiaozhi stomped hard on the person’s foot and, with a swift backhand, struck their throat.

She was about to strike again when she saw who it was.

“Oh my god… cough, cough, cough…” the person gasped, clutching their throat. “Just saying hi, was that necessary?… Is my foot broken again?”

Wei Zhuoning immediately rushed to Lin Xiaozhi’s side. “Are you okay?!”

Lin Xiaozhi: “…I’m fine.”

“Hey, Tan Luo?” Wei Zhuoning recognized her, pointing. Turning to Lin Xiaozhi, she began, “Your ex-”

Before she could finish “ex-girlfriend,” Lin Xiaozhi glared at her.

Wei Zhuoning flinched, realizing her near slip-up. Calling Tan Luo her “ex” had been fine when they were just messing around, but now, with their changed relationship, saying it out loud would be mortifying.

Tan Luo, recovering, immediately checked her reflection in a compact mirror, relieved to find her beauty unscathed. Her face was clearly her top priority.

Dressed in a long brown wig, her makeup more elaborate than usual, a cashmere coat, bare legs, and high heels, Tan Luo was clearly dressed for a date.

Wei Zhuoning stared. How can she not be freezing?

Lin Xiaozhi covered Wei Zhuoning’s eyes. Don’t look at that trash, she thought, then asked Tan Luo, “What are you doing here?”

Unfazed by the assault, Tan Luo smiled sweetly. “Like you, I’m here on a date.” Looking at Wei Zhuoning struggling in Lin Xiaozhi’s embrace, she smiled. “Congratulations, Xiao Zhi. Looks like you finally got what you wanted.”

Wei Zhuoning: “?”

Lin Xiaozhi glared at her. Tan Luo’s smile widened. “So scary. But you’re cutest when you’re being fierce. I won’t bother you any longer,” she said, waving cheerfully. “My little Chi Lin is waiting for me.”

Her last words stunned them both.

Chi Lin?

Watching Tan Luo walk away, Wei Zhuoning asked Lin Xiaozhi, “Did I hear that right? Did she say Chi Lin is waiting for her?”

Lin Xiaozhi: “You heard correctly.”

“Chi Lin is going on a date with her? Impossible.”

Overcome with curiosity, they discreetly followed Tan Luo to the ninth floor: the cinema.

Tan Luo bought two pink ice cream cones, eating one and seemingly saving the other for her date.

Hiding behind a display stand, Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning peeked out. They refused to believe Chi Lin would date her. Why would Chi Lin even bother with her? Wasn’t Lou Mi a million times better? Choosing Tan Luo over Lou Mi, who was both young, rich, and beautiful? Unless Chi Lin had gone blind.

But Tan Luo didn’t seem like the type to lie without reason.

What if…

As Lin Xiaozhi focused on Tan Luo, Wei Zhuoning noticed someone coming up the escalator.

Wei Zhuoning pinched Lin Xiaozhi’s thigh hard.

Wearing only thin pants, Lin Xiaozhi almost screamed, feeling like her leg had been bitten off. Tears welled up in her eyes. “Honey, that was brutal.”

Wei Zhuoning pointed at the escalator, her face a mask of shock.

Lin Xiaozhi followed her gaze and saw Chi Lin.

It really was Chi Lin.

Wei Zhuoning and Lin Xiaozhi exchanged looks.

What the hell…

Reaching the ninth floor, Chi Lin spotted Tan Luo immediately.

“Hey!” Tan Luo waved cheerfully. Chi Lin didn’t move, so Tan Luo approached her, offering her the ice cream cone. “I bought this for you. Don’t let it go to waste.”

Wei Zhuoning whispered to Lin Xiaozhi, “What is she saying?”

Lin Xiaozhi shook her head. “Too quiet, I can’t hear.”

They could only see Chi Lin’s lips moving, her expression urgent.

Tan Luo smiled, a slight furrow in her brow, not immediately answering.

Wei Zhuoning: “I’ve never seen Chi Lin so flustered… How did Tan Luo even manage to get her here?”

…

An hour and fifteen minutes earlier, Wei Zhuoning and Lin Xiaozhi had just left Longrun Gardens.

“Are you going to the club today?” Chi Lin asked.

“I have a video conference this afternoon, then I’m free. I’ll go tomorrow.”

Lou Mi and Chi Lin sat in the living room, the TV on, neither having returned to their rooms. Tiger jumped onto the sofa, curling up on Chi Lin’s lap.

Chi Lin stroked its fur while scrolling through her phone.

Lou Mi massaged her temples. Noticing this, Chi Lin asked, “Is your head hurting again?”

“A little.”

Chi Lin put Tiger down and moved behind Lou Mi to massage her head.

“Don’t, your hand is still injured.” Lou Mi reached back to stop her, her hand landing precisely on Chi Lin’s. It felt cool and soft, not at all like the hand of a martial artist.

Lou Mi was surprised by her accuracy. Reluctant to let go, she found, to her surprise, that Chi Lin didn’t pull away.

“I’m fine, it’s healed,” Chi Lin said. “I know the pressure points. If I get them right, it can really help with your headache.”

Lou Mi gently caressed the back of Chi Lin’s hand before releasing it. “Then I’ll look forward to it.”

“Rest your head here.” Chi Lin guided her head back against the sofa.

Lou Mi leaned back obediently, the top of her head brushing against Chi Lin’s stomach.

Chi Lin: “I’ll start now. Tell me if it’s too much pressure. You can close your eyes if you want.”

Lou Mi closed her eyes blissfully. “Is this what presidential treatment feels like?”

Chi Lin’s technique was masterful, each press relieving some of the pain. After half an hour, Lou Mi was almost asleep.

“You’ve worked hard. Take a break.” Lou Mi yawned, feeling completely refreshed. She shook her head, which felt incredibly light. “With you around, I don’t need any painkillers.”

“The most important thing is regular exercise and plenty of rest.”

“Time for my little sister’s lecture again.”

Chi Lin seized the opportunity. “I’ve learned some new brain training techniques recently. Want to try them?”

After the amazing massage, Lou Mi was intrigued. “So you’ve evolved from physical training to brain training? Don’t let Grandpa Yan hear about this, or he’ll have you teaching a winter class immediately.”

Chi Lin: “Close your eyes and press your right index finger against the center of your forehead.”

Lou Mi followed her instructions. “Then what?”

“What do you see?”

“…What can you see with your eyes closed? I’m not a psychic.”

“Focus and try. Do you see a white light where your finger is pressing?”

This was one of the “N Ways to See Your Past Life Memories” Chi Lin found online. It was the most commonly mentioned method, dubbed “Opening the Door to Your Past Life.”

“White light… no. Should I press harder?”

“Try applying a little more pressure.”

Lou Mi pressed until her fingertip turned white, but still saw no white light.

“If I keep this up, I’m going to poke a hole through my skull. Master Chi, is this brain training or some kind of dark magic?”

“It’s training your focus,” Chi Lin lied smoothly. “If you can’t see the white light, you might not have the necessary spiritual aptitude. Let’s try a different method.”

Lou Mi opened her eyes, confused. “You need spiritual aptitude for brain training? Do I need to open my meridians first?”

Chi Lin: “No need for that. Roll up your sleeve and show me your arm.”

Lou Mi complied.

Chi Lin had read online that every soul encounters Meng Po, the goddess of forgetfulness, and drinks her soup, erasing all memories of their past life. Some, unwilling to forget, refuse the soup. Unable to force them, Meng Po uses a spell to seal their memories. The spell manifests as a mole on the inner arm in their next life. Removing the mole unlocks their past life memories.

Chi Lin suspected that, given Her Majesty’s temperament, she definitely wouldn’t have drunk the soup.

Lou Mi presented her bare arm. Chi Lin examined it carefully. There were no moles on either arm.

Chi Lin: “…”

Lou Mi: “What are you looking for?”

“Your spiritual root.”

“On my arm?”

“What you see is superficial. I see deeper things.”

“And what did you see?”

“Nothing.”

“???”

“You seem to lack a spiritual root.”

Lou Mi: “…Would hitting you be considered domestic violence?”

Only one option remained: hypnosis.

Chi Lin found a retractable measuring tape, pulled out a section, and dangled it in the air, the classic hypnosis prop.

Lou Mi: “If I’m not mistaken, are you trying to hypnotize me?”

Chi Lin: “It’s called hypnotherapy.”

“Therapy? For what?”

“For your lack of spiritual root.”

“…You’re messing with me.”

“Jiejie, focus on me, look at the measuring tape…”

Lou Mi watched.

“Relax, let all your muscles relax. Don’t think about anything.”

“Woof.”

“…Don’t talk either. Now, slowly close your eyes.”

“…”

Following the instructions on her phone, Chi Lin continued, “Now, there’s a door before you. Walk towards it and open it.”

“…”

“Inside the door, there’s a white light. You’re bathed in this white light. Now, what do you see?”

Hypnosis was supposedly capable of unlocking deep-seated memories, even those related to past lives.

Chi Lin waited anxiously for Lou Mi to speak.

Lou Mi frowned slightly. “What do I see? I see a white light.”

Chi Lin: “…” The measuring tape slipped from her fingers and fell to the floor.

Lou Mi opened her eyes. “Didn’t you say there’s a white light inside the door? Isn’t that what I’m supposed to imagine?”

“I don’t want you to imagine it.”

“Then what?”

“I want you to actually see it.”

“My eyes are closed, Master.”

“Forget it…” Chi Lin’s mind was now a blank. “That’s enough training for today. Are you thirsty? I’ll get you a drink.”

“I feel like you’re disappointed in me.”

Chi Lin wasn’t disappointed, just realizing that online information, while seemingly abundant, was mostly unreliable.

“Everyone is different, so cultivation methods vary. Finding the right one is key.”

Recently, in her search for past life information, Chi Lin had exhausted the library archives and turned to the internet, her speech now peppered with cultivation jargon.

She went to the kitchen and chose two juices. While waiting, she casually checked the Class 6 WeChat group and noticed a new friend request.

Tan Luo?

Chi Lin wasn’t inclined to accept, but two sentences in Tan Luo’s request message stopped her cold.

Chi Lin read them again, making sure she hadn’t misread.

Why… would Tan Luo send her these words?

Seeing Chi Lin hadn’t returned, Lou Mi called out to her, but got no response. She went to the kitchen.

“Chi Lin?”

The soft call made Chi Lin tremble. When she turned around, her face was so pale that Lou Mi was startled.

“What’s wrong?”

Chi Lin: “…I… need to go out.”

Lou Mi: “Oh? So suddenly? Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Avoiding Lou Mi’s gaze, Chi Lin rushed back to her room, quickly changed, and left.

Chapter 63

When Lin Xiaozhi and Wei Zhuoning returned, Chi Lin noticed something was off with Wei Zhuoning.

“Ah Lin, I’m so dizzy…” Wei Zhuoning stumbled, clinging to Chi Lin for support.

Smelling the alcohol on her, and recalling Lin Xiaozhi’s earlier request for a few mini-bottles of alcohol, Chi Lin immediately understood. “You got her drunk?” she asked Lin Xiaozhi, as she steadied Wei Zhuoning.

Lin Xiaozhi, who’d had quite a bit to drink herself, giggled. “It was consensual, so how can you call it ‘getting her drunk’?”

So she did get her drunk… Chi Lin thought.

Mistaking Chi Lin for Lin Xiaozhi, Wei Zhuoning wrapped her arms around Chi Lin’s neck, burying her face in her shoulder. “How could you… tell me, how are you such a good kisser?”

Chi Lin shot Lin Xiaozhi a look that said, “You did that in a public park?!“. Lin Xiaozhi struggled to pull Wei Zhuoning away. “I’m over here. If you want to scold someone, scold me. What are you clinging to her for?”

Lou Mi, just having escaped a throng of younger students, squeezed in. “What’s going on? Is your little friend drunk?”

Spotting Lou Mi, Wei Zhuoning pointed and exclaimed, “Lou Jiejie is awesome! Lou Jiejie conquers the world!”

Chi Lin: “???”

Lou Mi awkwardly explained, “It’s my fan cheer.”

Chi Lin: “…”

As Wei Zhuoning swayed precariously, Chi Lin suggested to Lin Xiaozhi that they take her to her bedroom to rest. “Why don’t you two just stay here tonight? I have enough blankets.”

Lin Xiaozhi: “If we take your room, where will you sleep?”

Chi Lin: “I can sleep anywhere in the living room. It’s best not to move Zhuoning too much in her current state.”

Lin Xiaozhi looked at Lou Mi, who readily agreed. “Just stay here. Going out in the cold after drinking could make her sick.”

Lin Xiaozhi patted Wei Zhuoning’s cheek. “Did you hear that? We’re staying at Chi Lin’s tonight.”

Wei Zhuoning, still dazed, fumbled for her phone. “I need to call my mom.”

Lin Xiaozhi retrieved the phone from her pocket. “I’ll call her for you. Your mom would worry if she heard you like this.”

“Okay…” Sitting on the sofa, Wei Zhuoning, experiencing her first hangover, clung tightly to Lin Xiaozhi, whimpering. “I feel awful.”

Lin Xiaozhi was almost suffocating, but couldn’t bring herself to let go. “There, there. I’ll call your mom, and then I’ll get you something for your hangover, okay?”

Wei Zhuoning weakly nodded against her chest.

Lou Mi watched them, mesmerized. Chi Lin nudged her with her elbow. “Don’t stare at them like that, it’s rude.”

Lou Mi said “Oh,” then, “I’ll go make some hangover tea for your friend. You stay here and take care of them.”

“Okay.” Watching Lou Mi head to the kitchen, Chi Lin followed. “Jiejie…”

Before Chi Lin could express her gratitude, Lou Mi waved her hand dismissively, as if to say, “Don’t mention it.”

…

The intensity of the high schoolers’ post-exam revelry spoke volumes about their academic pressure. That night, Chi Lin and Lou Mi went through several boxes of drinks, the cupcakes disappearing in waves, the smart home system working overtime. Gao Xiang got Lou Mi’s autograph and a photo, practically rolling home instead of taking a taxi. The other classmates, equally exhilarated, finally left close to midnight.

Bundled in thick down jackets, Chi Lin and Lou Mi saw them off, making sure everyone got into taxis before heading back. It had taken a combined effort to stuff the T-Rex into one.

“It’s getting colder every day with the New Year approaching.”

Not wanting to scare anyone with her costume in the middle of the night, Lou Mi had changed back into her regular clothes, donning a short down jacket. Not expecting to be outside for long, she wore thin pajama pants and slippers. The wind cut through her clothes, making her shiver, but her posture remained ramrod straight.

Chi Lin noticed Lou Mi’s innate regal bearing. No matter the situation or environment, her aura never diminished.

Chi Lin took off her long down jacket and, standing on tiptoe, draped it over Lou Mi.

Lou Mi: “What are you doing?”

Chi Lin didn’t reply, continuing to walk in just her sweatshirt.

Lou Mi caught up, placing the jacket back over Chi Lin. “I’m not that fragile. You’re going to get sick and make everyone worry.”

The oversized jacket completely enveloped Chi Lin’s head. She struggled for a moment before she could breathe again.

Chi Lin: “I’m not cold.”

Lou Mi: “Put it on anyway.”

At the community gate, the security guard offered them a ride, but Lou Mi declined. “No, thank you. We’ll walk.”

A hazy moon, veiled by thin clouds, cast a faint glow. Fortunately, the streetlights were bright.

Chi Lin deliberately slowed her pace, letting Lou Mi walk ahead, so she could quietly observe her.

Lou Mi was about the same height as Her Majesty. Perhaps because of their similar heights, they both had long strides and walked quickly.

Halfway home, Lou Mi suddenly looked back, catching Chi Lin staring at her.

Chi Lin pretended nothing had happened, quickening her pace to walk beside her.

“What were you looking at?” Lou Mi asked.

“You. Why are you so tall?”

“Oh, I was just born this way.”

Gazing at the elusive, mystical moon, Chi Lin asked, “Have you ever wondered what you were like in your past life?”

Lou Mi looked up at the sky as well. “Past life? I’ve never really thought about it. But we must have known each other in a past life.”

Chi Lin’s heart leaped at her words. “Why do you say that?”

“More than just knowing each other. We must have been enemies. Why else would you torment me like this in this life?”

Chi Lin: “…”

After saying this, Lou Mi pulled her collar higher, covering half her face, and quickened her pace towards home.

Lou Mi wasn’t oblivious. She saw everything Chi Lin did. When Chi Lin mentioned watching her height, Lou Mi wanted to ask, What are you looking for in me? But she swallowed the words.

Chi Lin had an agenda, something she wanted from Lou Mi, something Lou Mi couldn’t yet grasp. The feeling of closeness followed by a sudden distance was unsettling.

Of course, she knew Chi Lin was struggling even more. Something seemed to bind Chi Lin, something invisible yet powerful enough to consume her.

As Lou Mi scanned her face to enter the building, she wondered if she’d misconstrued her feelings for Chi Lin. It should be sisterly affection, given our age difference, she thought. With all the chaos at Chi Lin’s school recently, and Peng Ziyuan being away, I’ve been acting as her guardian. Have I developed a protective instinct? Their previous intimacy, the CPR and the accidental kiss, hadn’t happened under normal circumstances. In short, they were accidents, not love.

How could there be romantic love between them? It was just an illusion of comfort after their relationship had improved from its initial disastrous state. They were simply family.

Entering the house, Lou Mi went straight to her room.

Watching her about to disappear behind the closing door, Chi Lin suddenly rushed forward, trying to stop it. “Jiejie…”

Caught off guard, Lou Mi couldn’t stop the door in time. Chi Lin’s hand was trapped.

“What’s wrong with you?!” Lou Mi carefully examined Chi Lin’s hand, already red and swollen. It looked painful. “You’re supposed to be a martial arts expert. How could you not avoid a door?”

Chi Lin: “I didn’t see it coming. It’s fine, it doesn’t hurt.”

“It’s all red! It’ll be bruised tomorrow. And you say it doesn’t hurt?”

Chi Lin hung her head and shook her head.

Lou Mi looked at her. “Do you have something to say to me?”

Chi Lin did. She even wanted to reveal her secret, her journey from another time. It tormented both of them. She wanted to ask Lou Mi directly if she remembered her past life. If she remembered Dayuan, if she remembered her wife in Dayuan. If she remembered their 20 years together, if she remembered their vows to stay together, even in death.

Chi Lin had been suppressing these questions. A definitive answer, even a painful one, would be a relief. The person before her might be her beloved, or might not. She felt it was likely, it should be, but she had no proof.

She didn’t want to hurt Lou Mi, but she already had, inadvertently.

“Lou Mi…”

Lou Mi: “You don’t have to say anything.”

Chi Lin: “?”

Lou Mi retrieved some ointment from the first-aid kit and applied it to Chi Lin’s hand. “You don’t have to force yourself to comfort me. I know you have your secrets. Everyone has secrets. I’m an adult, a resilient adult. I can handle this. I had a moment of weakness, but it’s over now. Really. You should focus on overcoming your own inner demons.”

Tucking her hair behind her ear, Lou Mi carefully finished applying the ointment, then looked up and winked. “Look at you, more upset than me, and you even got your hand caught in a door. How unlucky. Don’t worry about comforting me, okay? Think about yourself.”

It was her own indecision that had upset Lou Mi, yet Lou Mi was comforting her. Just like Her Majesty, always prioritizing Chi Lin’s happiness, regardless of her own feelings.

Chi Lin couldn’t find a reason to believe Lou Mi wasn’t Her Majesty. Even a gut feeling was a kind of evidence. Who said feelings couldn’t be proof? Lou Mi felt like the closest connection to Her Majesty. Without concrete evidence, Chi Lin herself was the only witness.

Resolute, Chi Lin shifted her focus from seeking confirmation to finding a way to trigger Lou Mi’s memories of their past life. Restoring those memories would not only prove Lou Mi was Her Majesty but also provide a path to restoring her kingdom. It was the quickest way.

…

After a deep sleep, Chi Lin was awakened by Peng Ziyuan the next morning.

“Zai Zai, wake up, everyone’s waiting for you for breakfast.”

Chi Lin had fallen asleep late on the living room sofa and was still groggy.

Peng Ziyuan called her several times before she fully woke. Seeing her nestled in the soft blanket, looking incredibly cute, Peng Ziyuan couldn’t resist showering her face with kisses. “My baby is so sweet and adorable—Mommy loves you—”

Chi Lin opened her eyes. “Mother, I’m awake, I’m awake.”

When she came out after washing up, she saw not only Lou Mi at the breakfast table but also a radiant Lin Xiaozhi and a slightly dazed Wei Zhuoning.

“Chi Lin,” Wei Zhuoning called, beckoning her to sit beside her.

After sitting down, Chi Lin glanced at Wei Zhuoning, then at Lin Xiaozhi, whispering, “You didn’t do anything strange in my bed last night, did you?”

Luckily, Wei Zhuoning wasn’t drinking milk, or she would have choked. “Are you crazy?!”

Lou Mi, sitting opposite them, handed them chopsticks and spoons. “Whispering secrets so early in the morning?”

Wei Zhuoning straightened up, accepting the utensils. “Thank you, Lou Jiejie!”

Lou Mi: “Good girl.”

Wei Zhuoning was ecstatic. “Lou Jiejie called me a good girl! I could die happy now.”

Lin Xiaozhi: “Excuse her, she just turned 18. Just ignore her rambling.”

Chi Lin: “Oh? Just turned 18? Is your birthday around this time, Zhuoning?”

Wei Zhuoning was too embarrassed to answer, so Lin Xiaozhi spoke for her. “It was yesterday.”

Lou Mi: “Oh, yesterday was your birthday? Why didn’t you say anything? We were too caught up with the party.”

Wei Zhuoning: “It’s just my birthday, it’s not important.”

Lin Xiaozhi gave her a sideways glance. How is your 18th birthday not important? Stop belittling yourself.

“Besides…” Wei Zhuoning continued, “Xiao Zhi already celebrated my birthday. I’m very happy.”

Whoa, the nickname’s changed. The “Lin” was gone, replaced with the more intimate “Xiao Zhi”.

Lin Xiaozhi quietly sipped her milk, hiding her smile behind the mug.

Wei Zhuoning stole a glance at her, seeing her smile, and her heart swelled with happiness.

Lou Mi, observing the nuances of their interaction, burned with envy. She recalled Chi Lin’s question about her past life. I don’t know what I was like then, but in this life, I’m definitely a jealous mess.

Chapter 62

Chi Lin’s face darkened, her expression dazed. Yet, even in her disorientation, she instinctively adjusted Lou Mi’s collar, which is how Lou Mi realized her buttons had come undone. Chi Lin averted her gaze, using one hand to fasten the buttons.

Lou Mi: “Thanks…”

She couldn’t understand what Chi Lin was thinking. Hadn’t Chi Lin orchestrated all this for this very moment? Why did she seem unhappy now that her “scheme” had succeeded?

Lou Mi realized her full weight was still resting on Chi Lin, who didn’t seem to mind. Lou Mi quickly pushed herself up. “Are you okay?”

Chi Lin shook her head.

Lou Mi noticed that the atmosphere between them depended entirely on Chi Lin. And Chi Lin’s silence could mask a multitude of emotions.

It was impossible to stay in this position, and continuing what they’d started seemed unlikely. Lou Mi stood up, pulling Chi Lin up with her.

Chi Lin silently picked up the fallen fairy lights, re-hanging them. Turning to Lou Mi, she asked, “Do you want to stay here, or go back and join the others?”

Lou Mi: “I’ll do whatever you want.”

Chi Lin shook her head. “Don’t let me decide.”

Lou Mi noticed Chi Lin’s clenched fists. She was smiling, but it lacked sincerity, as if she was forcing a cheerful facade.

“I’ll go out first and wait for you there.” Lou Mi sensed Chi Lin needed some space.

Hearing this, Chi Lin breathed a sigh of relief, looking at Lou Mi with gratitude. “Okay…”

Lou Mi heard a subtle hoarseness in her voice, and the grateful look in her eyes made her seem vulnerable, causing a pang in Lou Mi’s heart. “I’ll be right outside. Call me whenever you’re ready.”

Chi Lin nodded. “Thank you.”

Stepping out of the warm tent, Lou Mi was hit by a blast of cold air, shoving her hands into her pockets and hunching her shoulders. The house was still buzzing with activity. Lou Mi shivered. Young people sure know how to have fun.

“Hey, Mi-jie!”

Xie Buyu, Fu Tu, and Hu Hu were sitting in the gazebo, drinking hot tea. Seeing Lou Mi emerge, they immediately flocked to her.

Xie Buyu, eager for details: “So? How was it? That was quick!”

“Shhh!” Lou Mi hushed her, glancing back at the tent, then pulling the three of them further away.

“It’s over,” Fu Tu declared, understanding immediately. “Looks like Mi-jie’s real coming-of-age ceremony still hasn’t happened.”

Lou Mi raised her hand as if to strike, and Fu Tu quickly hid behind Xie Buyu.

Hu Hu, seeing Lou Mi’s genuine annoyance and fearing a fight, or rather a one-sided beating, quickly intervened: “Mi-jie, Mi-jie, calm down, calm down. Have some hot milk tea to cool off.”

Lou Mi wasn’t appeased by the offered milk tea. “Milk tea is for kids. I want alcohol.”

Hu Hu: “Okay! I’ll get you some! What kind do you want?”

“Anything alcoholic.”

“Right away!”

Lou Mi turned to Xie Buyu and Fu Tu. “You two go with him.”

Sensing Lou Mi wanted them gone, they obediently followed Hu Hu.

On their way to fetch the alcohol, Fu Tu asked Xie Buyu, “What happened? Did they have a fight?”

Xie Buyu: “You’d better pray Mi-jie actually had a relationship to fight about. From the looks of it, they haven’t even confirmed anything yet. Fighting would be pointless.”

“Huh? They haven’t made it official yet? Didn’t she practically grope her chest last time? And weren’t they practically setting the tent on fire just now? Spinning like a flaming wheel?”

“Yes, but even a flaming wheel should be removing clothes, not fastening them. Have you ever seen a couple buttoning up clothes in a passionate embrace?”

Fu Tu considered this. She had to admit, Xie Buyu had a point.

Fu Tu: “Poor Mi-jie.”

Xie Buyu: “You’re still a virgin, don’t worry about other people’s love lives. Focus on your own.”

Fu Tu: “What the—?!”

Hu Hu: “…” I didn’t hear anything, I don’t know anything.

…

Shivering in the cold, Lou Mi started practicing her martial arts forms to warm up.

When Chi Lin opened the tent flap, she saw Lou Mi practicing.

Chi Lin: “…Your form is a bit off. Your leg should be higher.”

Lou Mi met her gaze for a moment, then obediently raised her leg higher, wobbling slightly and almost losing her balance.

“Careful!”

Chi Lin moved to steady her, but Lou Mi quickly regained her balance.

“Don’t worry, I’m not going to fall over.”

“Come inside, it’s too cold outside,” Chi Lin said.

Lou Mi readily accepted the invitation. Back in the warmth of the tent, she finally relaxed. Her entrance brought in a noticeable chill.

Seeing Lou Mi’s normally vibrant lips now pale from the cold, Chi Lin felt a pang of guilt.

Lou Mi closed the tent flap but remained at the entrance. “Are you feeling better?” she asked Chi Lin.

Chi Lin: “I wasn’t really upset. Just some silly thoughts.”

There was no guarantee a birthmark would prove anything. Even Chi Lin and the original Chi Lin’s birthmarks weren’t exactly the same. Perhaps it was just a coincidence they were in the same location.

Lou Mi had already said she didn’t have a birthmark. It was Chi Lin’s own stubbornness that led her to seek confirmation. Now that the evidence was before her, any further distress was self-inflicted.

After a round of self-deprecating thoughts, Chi Lin felt a bit better. Even if she had to start over in her search for connections between Her Majesty’s past and present lives, she needed to gather her strength and continue. Besides, so far, Lou Mi still felt the most like Her Majesty, the closest connection she’d found. Chi Lin would continue to seek validation from Lou Mi.

Lou Mi: “Was it something to do with me that was bothering you?”

Chi Lin realized Lou Mi was incredibly perceptive, able to sense her thoughts even without words.

“Not exactly bothering me,” Chi Lin replied. “There are just some things I haven’t figured out yet.”

Lou Mi nodded, recalling Chi Lin’s earlier words about overcoming her inner demons.

“If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.”

Lou Mi’s smile was so gentle that Chi Lin’s newly calmed heart began to stir again—with guilt.

Xie Buyu and the others returned with the alcohol, but Lou Mi was nowhere to be seen.

“What’s going on? Where is she?”

Fu Tu pointed to two blurry figures inside the tent. “Did they go back in?”

Xie Buyu: “…That’s our Mi-jie for you, always fast. Fu Tu, you should learn a thing or two from Mi-jie’s speed.”

Fu Tu: “Why are you always picking on me? Keep your fantasies to yourself.”

“What? Am I wrong?”

“If you want to find out, you’ll have to verify it yourself.”

“Fine, let’s do it. Tonight. Don’t back out.”

“Whoever backs out is a chicken. Loser buys dinner for a month.”

“A month is too short. Two months.”

As they bickered back and forth, Hu Hu listened, dumbfounded. What are they talking about? Is it what I think it is? I’ve heard of fighting, but never of… that to prove a point. The thought was too much for Hu Hu to handle.

When Lou Mi and Chi Lin emerged, only Hu Hu was waiting outside, holding several bottles of alcohol.

“Why is it just you? Where are Xie Buyu and Fu Tu?” Lou Mi asked.

“Uh… they suddenly had something urgent to attend to. They said they had to leave.”

“They left already? They didn’t even eat or drink anything.”

“They seemed to be in a hurry.”

“What could be so urgent?”

Despite the winter weather, Hu Hu was sweating. “Mi-jie, please don’t ask.”

Lou Mi: “?”

“If you ask again, I’ll kill myself.”

Lou Mi: “…”

…

Back inside, the sight of Lou Mi and Chi Lin together nearly sent their fans through the roof. Slightly drunk, Gao Xiang went even crazier, yelling “Goddess!” and lunging at Lou Mi.

Lou Mi, experienced with overzealous fans, could predict their actions from the first glance. If she could, she would have delivered a spinning kick, sending the fan flying ten meters. But she couldn’t. No matter how crazy, they were still fans…

Lou Mi braced herself to dodge, but Gao Xiang was stopped five meters away, something suddenly blocking his vision.

Chi Lin had intercepted him, her outstretched hand pressed against his forehead, stopping him in his tracks. This move actually had a follow-up: pressing down with her arm, she could have smashed his face into the floor.

Gao Xiang: “What’s going on? Who turned off the lights? Where’s my Lou Jiejie?”

Chi Lin led him to a chair. “Sit down and calm down.”

Even though Lou Mi couldn’t decipher Chi Lin’s thoughts, the feeling of being protected was undeniably satisfying.

Lou Mi: “Hey, Xiao Lin, don’t be so rough with your classmate. Don’t break his neck.”

Chi Lin: “…It’s not made of paper. It won’t break that easily.”

“His neck might not be made of paper, but your hands are made of steel. Remember what happened in your bathroom? You almost broke my neck.”

Lou Mi’s words instantly shifted the atmosphere, everyone latching onto the keyword “bathroom.”

Chi Lin wasn’t sure if Lou Mi had said it intentionally, or if she was just that innocent due to her lack of relationship experience…

Chi Lin: “Ahem, do you like the cupcakes?”

“Yes—”

“Seeing Xue Cai CP interacting makes them even better!”

*Xue Cai means Snow Vegetable*

Chi Lin: “Xue Cai CP?” She’d seen that term somewhere before, and the word “Cai” (vegetable, often used as a nickname for Chi Lin) always caught her attention.

Compared to Chi Lin’s hesitation, Lou Mi was much more at ease. She readily posed for photos with her classmates and patiently answered all their esports questions. After all, they were Chi Lin’s friends.

Seeing everyone surrounding Lou Mi, Chi Lin felt a pang of complex emotions, realizing she was somewhat excluded. At the same time, she noticed something.

Where are Wei Zhuoning and Lin Xiaozhi?

…

“Why did we have to come out here?”

Half an hour earlier, Lin Xiaozhi had dragged Wei Zhuoning out of the house and into the community park. The park was mostly deserted at night. The occasional dog-walkers usually stuck to the brightly lit main path. They were on a smaller, sheltered path on the south side, the benches wide and comfortable. Lin Xiaozhi was familiar with the layout of such communities: activity zones separated from quiet areas, every need catered for.

Wei Zhuoning looked towards Chi Lin’s house. “You didn’t even tell her we were leaving. What if Chi Lin looks for us?”

Lin Xiaozhi: “Don’t worry, I messaged her. I told her we’d be back soon and not to look for us.”

Wei Zhuoning was puzzled. “Why did you bring me here? You even brought your bag. Hey, what’s that in your hand?”

“Alcohol,” Lin Xiaozhi replied, holding up a cute miniature bottle. “I secretly asked Chi Lin where she kept the alcohol, and she got it for me.”

“When did that happen? I didn’t see.” Wei Zhuoning reached for the bottle, but Lin Xiaozhi dodged her hand.

“You have two bottles. Aren’t we each going to have one?”

Lin Xiaozhi shook her head. “Of course not. I have more in my pocket.”

“It’s my birthday! I’m an adult now, I can drink!” Wei Zhuoning hadn’t planned on drinking, but the sight of the alcohol was too tempting. “I’ve always wanted to try it. Let me have a taste.”

Lin Xiaozhi leaned closer. “Let me have a taste first.”

Wei Zhuoning understood what Lin Xiaozhi wanted to taste, and her expression changed, shrinking back. “What are you trying to do…?”

Lin Xiaozhi followed her every move. “What do you think?”

Wei Zhuoning: “We can’t…”

“Why not?”

“I knew it. You brought me to a secluded place with ulterior motives.”

“Oh, so you knew I had ulterior motives and still came with me. You like my ulterior motives, then.”

“That’s not how logic works.”

Lin Xiaozhi watched the blush deepen on Wei Zhuoning’s face, her ear tips turning red. Unable to resist, she reached out and touched one.

The contact of Lin Xiaozhi’s cool fingers against her burning ear sent a jolt through Wei Zhuoning.

“Don’t touch me…”

Lin Xiaozhi had practically trapped Wei Zhuoning against the armrest of the bench, leaving her no room to retreat.

Lin Xiaozhi pleaded softly, “I miss how cute you were at the cinema that day. You were so adorable, my heart melted. Let me see that side of you again, okay?”

Wei Zhuoning closed her eyes, afraid her gaze would betray her feelings. “No.”

“So cruel to me.”

“That’s not… it’s you who…”

Before Wei Zhuoning could finish, Lin Xiaozhi sighed dramatically. “And I even got you a birthday present.”

“Huh?” Wei Zhuoning hadn’t expected that. “A birthday present?”

Lin Xiaozhi brought out her backpack. Meeting Wei Zhuoning’s expectant gaze, she paused, teasingly. “Guess what it is.”

Wei Zhuoning: “I… I can’t guess.”

The only birthday presents she’d ever received were from her mother: sometimes a bowl of noodles with two extra eggs and sausages, sometimes a new outfit or shoes. They weren’t expensive, but she treasured them, often reluctant to use them.

This was the first time someone other than her mother had remembered her birthday.

Lin Xiaozhi continued to tease her. “If you can’t guess, I won’t give it to you.”

Wei Zhuoning was speechless. After fully enjoying Wei Zhuoning’s adorable anticipation, Lin Xiaozhi finally opened her bag and pulled out a box.

“Open it and see.”

Wei Zhuoning held the box, neatly wrapped in colorful candy paper, almost reluctant to tear it open.

Lin Xiaozhi, seeing through her hesitation, tore it open for her. “I don’t know if you’ll like it.”

Wei Zhuoning whispered, “I’m sure I’ll like it…”

Lin Xiaozhi could barely contain herself, biting her knuckles to distract herself.

Wei Zhuoning opened the box. Inside lay a blue package. She recognized it instantly: the latest model of the “Brain Keyboard” she’d been dreaming of!

The Brain Keyboard, as its name suggested, connected to the user’s brain. It wasn’t a physical keyboard but a virtual one. It resembled the access crystals for holographic games: two thin metal plates. Attaching these plates to the temples, connecting to a phone via Bluetooth, and focusing one’s mind allowed the user to type directly from their thoughts.

With this device, writers could finally liberate their hands! No more sitting at a computer all day. Whatever they thought would appear on the screen. It supported Mandarin, Cantonese, Minnan, and various other popular dialects, with the official website constantly updating its language packs.

It was the hottest gadget among writers, with some claiming they could write up to 10,000 words per hour with focused concentration. Wei Zhuoning had tried it countless times at the store, desperately wanting it, but the 5999 RMB price tag was prohibitive.

She never imagined Lin Xiaozhi would gift this to her…

Lin Xiaozhi watched her, her face alight with uncontainable joy, her heart melting. A faint teeth mark remained on her knuckle.

“I can tell you really like it.”

Wei Zhuoning nodded, then, as if remembering something, shook her head and pushed the gift back. “It’s too expensive, I can’t accept it.”

Lin Xiaozhi had already anticipated her lines: “Oh, then throw it away for me.”

Wei Zhuoning: “…I know this is cliché, but it really is too expensive!”

Lin Xiaozhi: “Your first kiss was much more valuable than this, and I still accepted it.”

Wei Zhuoning choked. “…I didn’t say I was giving it to you. You stole it!”

Lin Xiaozhi: “Exactly. So why be so polite with me? Besides, you’ll become successful one day. You can buy me something I like then. I know this Brain Keyboard will improve your writing efficiency, consider it an investment. Write well, and when you become famous, I can bask in your glory.”

Wei Zhuoning: “But…”

“Oh, just take it. Stop being so hesitant.”

“Thank you. I’ll accept it.”

“Oh, I almost forgot. The alcohol is also for you. Happy birthday.”

It was the first time Wei Zhuoning had heard those words from someone other than her mother. Taking the alcohol, tears welled up in her eyes.

“Why are you crying?”

Wei Zhuoning sniffled and shook her head.

Unable to hold back any longer, Lin Xiaozhi leaned in and kissed her tears away.

As Wei Zhuoning looked up, she looked as adorable as a little bunny, ready to be held and cherished. Cupping the back of her head, Lin Xiaozhi kissed her lips.

Lin Xiaozhi was a skilled kisser. Wei Zhuoning felt dizzy, wanting to pull back, but Lin Xiaozhi’s hand prevented her.

“I can’t… breathe…”

Wei Zhuoning gently pushed her away.

Lin Xiaozhi gazed into her eyes, her intense stare making Wei Zhuoning’s heart pound. She picked up the bottle of alcohol.

“Let’s… drink.”

Lin Xiaozhi nodded. “Okay, let’s drink.” She took a sip.

Just as Wei Zhuoning wondered at her sudden compliance, Lin Xiaozhi kissed her again.

This kiss was far from gentle. Wei Zhuoning even choked on the alcohol Lin Xiaozhi had passed to her.

“Lin… cough, cough, cough…”

Lin Xiaozhi wiped the alcohol from the corner of her mouth.

“You’re not a supporting character,” Lin Xiaozhi said, gazing at her glistening lips. “You’re the main character in my world. You have been for a long time.”

…

Wei Zhuoning couldn’t resist. She was utterly captivated by Lin Xiaozhi, both by her words and her passionate kisses.

Lost in Lin Xiaozhi’s affection, Wei Zhuoning surrendered…

浮屠-Fú Tú: Her name can be translated to mean ‘Pagoda’ or ‘Buddha’ in adaptation. From now on, I’ll use Fu Tu instead of Pagoda

Chapter 61

An hour and a half before the party’s 5 p.m. start time, the Class 6 students were already at the gates of Longrun Gardens. Chi Lin had informed the security guards the day before, so they waved the students through, even arranging three sightseeing carts to transport them. The guards watched the flamboyant group, including a T-Rex, and couldn’t help but sigh, Youth is truly wonderful, so full of energy.

“Whoa—so cool! We get to ride a cart to Chi Lin’s house?” Dong Xiangwen, dressed as the Hulk, exclaimed.

“Keep your voice down, don’t embarrass us,” hissed Gao Xiang, the vampire standing beside him, uncomfortable with Dong Xiangwen’s boisterousness. “Look how big this rich people’s community is! Each house is a massive villa! It would take us half a day to walk there.”

Dong Xiangwen, preoccupied with the scenery, completely ignored Gao Xiang. “It’s so beautiful and huge! What’s that? A tennis court? An outdoor swimming pool? And a golf course?! Do gods live here?!”

The security guard driving chuckled, while Gao Xiang wanted to bury his head in shame.

Wei Zhuoning, carrying a bamboo basket, a tattered cloth on her head, and a tablecloth draped around her, was dressed as Ning Caichen, a scholar from a famous ghost story.

Lin Xiaozhi facepalmed internally. Knowing Wei Zhuoning’s frugal and unique approach, she should have just brought a bath towel and dressed as a female ghost. It would have been simple, and a ghost preying on a scholar? Perfect.

But Lin Xiaozhi’s initial plan had been too complex. Standing before a pile of clothes in her room, she’d agonized over how to create an instantly recognizable couple’s costume with Wei Zhuoning, who stubbornly refused to reveal her chosen character.

In the end, Lin Xiaozhi abandoned the couple idea and focused on looking glamorous. Matching costumes are just superficial. The important thing is to captivate Wei Zhuoning, she thought, to make her unable to look away.

Lin Xiaozhi chose Black Widow, confident her tight-fitting suit was undeniably sexy. Wei Zhuoning was indeed stunned by her unexpectedly alluring figure.

Unfortunately, Lin Xiaozhi only predicted the first half correctly. Wei Zhuoning, after a single glance, avoided her gaze for the rest of the trip, not daring to look again. The closer Lin Xiaozhi got, the more Wei Zhuoning shrank back. So shy… Today’s little scholar looks especially delicious…

While Lin Xiaozhi plotted how to “devour” the scholar, the scholar herself was still mesmerized by the elegant surroundings of Longrun Gardens. Wei Zhuoning felt like she had stepped into a movie scene. Lush green trees and vibrant flowers in this season? This community was incredible! Despite being outdoors, the temperature was completely different from the biting winter wind outside; it felt like early spring. If it weren’t for the occasional gusts of wind, she would have forgotten it was winter.

Passing a park, they saw a giant screen playing public service announcements about family love and advertisements for high-end pet food. Elegant ladies in thin trench coats strolled leisurely through the park, leading impeccably groomed pets.

The students, bundled up like dumplings, stared wide-eyed. If Lin Xiaozhi hadn’t been beside her, Wei Zhuoning would have joined Dong Xiangwen in their awestruck chatter. Instead, she sat with exaggerated composure, pretending not to be impressed by the novelties of the wealthy neighborhood.

Lin Xiaozhi poked her cheek.

Wei Zhuoning, still looking straight ahead: “What…?”

“It’s your birthday today, isn’t it?”

Wei Zhuoning was surprised. “How did you know?”

“Shocked? I would be surprised if I didn’t know. Coming to someone else’s party on your birthday, playing a supporting role, doesn’t that feel strange?”

“Not really. My mom made me noodles this morning, they were delicious. And I’m used to being a supporting character anyway, I don’t mind.”

Wei Zhuoning’s casual remark made Lin Xiaozhi’s heart ache.

…

“Are you ready?” Chi Lin, dressed in a floor-length robe, asked Lou Mi from the bedroom doorway.

Lou Mi had bought her a “period costume,” but the white robe was a bit ominous, resembling funeral attire. The headdress was also incredibly heavy. Wearing it, Chi Lin felt like her hair might snap. Do modern people have some misunderstanding about ancient clothing… she wondered.

Finally ready, she waited impatiently for Lou Mi, eager to check her left chest for a birthmark.

“Almost.”

“Why are you so slow…?”

Just then, the doorbell rang.

Chi Lin was startled. What? They’re here already?

Lou Mi, from inside the room, also asked, “Your classmates are here so early?”

Chi Lin checked the video intercom. It was them, arriving over an hour earlier than planned.

The security guard’s voice came through: “Miss Chi, your classmates are here.”

Chi Lin: “…Just a moment.”

She rushed back to Lou Mi. “Don’t come out yet.”

Lou Mi: “Huh? I’m dressed.”

“Listen to me, don’t come out!”

Lou Mi: “What’s wrong with you?”

Chi Lin absolutely did not want anyone else to see Lou Mi in that revealing outfit.

After giving Lou Mi her instructions, Chi Lin ran to open the door. Even before entering, the classmates were impressed by the size of Chi Lin’s yard and the two-story villa.

The door opened to reveal a spacious living room filled with popular drinks and adorable cupcakes. Chi Lin, in her elegant ancient costume, greeted them. The moment the door opened, an aura of ethereal beauty washed over everyone.

“Chi Lin—!”

“Wow, this is so luxurious…”

Chi Lin: “Come in, everyone. Food and drinks are all ready.”

Gao Xiang: “Where’s our Goddess?!”

Chi Lin: “…She’s inside, she’ll be out later.”

Initially, everyone was a bit reserved. Chi Lin gestured towards the various beanbag chairs. “Sit anywhere you like, everyone. Help yourselves to food and drinks. I’ll put on some music.”

Clueless about modern music, Chi Lin randomly selected a radio station on her phone and had the smart home system guide her through connecting to the Bluetooth speakers. As the music started, the awkwardness quickly dissipated. The delicious and visually appealing cupcakes also helped, becoming the focus of a photo frenzy.

Unable to stand the “ancient” music, Lin Xiaozhi volunteered to take over the music selection, rescuing everyone from Chi Lin’s “elderly” taste.

Chi Lin was baffled. This music is already so loud, and it’s considered elderly taste?

Lin Xiaozhi got the Bluetooth password, and the music instantly transformed into thunderous beats.

“Oh yeah—!”

The atmosphere ignited. Sha Xinyu turned on the party theme projector, cycling through snowstorms to outer space raves. She knew all the latest dance moves. Dressed as a popular leopard-themed game character, her outfit accentuated her waist, and her dancing electrified the room.

Chi Lin watched, dumbfounded. Sha Xinyu, usually so demure, was now practically shaking her hips off.

Except for the stunned Chi Lin, everyone was thrilled. Even the seemingly clumsy Wei Zhuoning swayed to the rhythm.

Standing amidst the frenzy, Chi Lin thought, …So this is the reality of this era?

Lou Mi was equally shocked when she emerged. What is this place? What’s flying in the sky? Lava? Looking around, she saw everyone dancing enthusiastically, a T-Rex swaying drunkenly in the center.

Lou Mi: “???”

Chi Lin pushed through the crowd. “Are you ready?”

Lou Mi: “I’m ready… I don’t think I’ll ever be ready. Your classmates are insane!”

The music was so loud they had to shout at each other, almost like they were arguing.

Chi Lin noticed Lou Mi had buttoned her leather jacket all the way up, feeling both relieved and disappointed. Relieved that her ardent fans wouldn’t see her revealing outfit, and disappointed that she couldn’t see it either.

The intense music faded into a softer tune, giving everyone a chance to catch their breath. They had almost danced themselves into a stroke.

Sha Xinyu switched the theme to “1980s Disco.” Born in 2025, these kids had no idea how to dance to disco music from over 40 years before their time. But with their innovative spirit, they just danced freely, however they pleased.

Lin Xiaozhi pulled Wei Zhuoning aside, offering to teach her disco.

“How do you know how to disco?” Wei Zhuoning asked, surprised.

Lin Xiaozhi: “Learned it from my grandpa. Come on, let me teach you.”

Wei Zhuoning blushed. “Don’t touch my waist!”

“Can’t teach you without touching.”

“…You even rhymed.”

Chi Lin and Lou Mi stood apart, watching the vampire and Hulk, Black Widow and Ning Caichen, awkwardly dancing together. The T-Rex bobbed its head, its dance style defying categorization.

Lou Mi decided she needed to call in reinforcements. The youngsters were too wild; she couldn’t handle it. Calling Xie Buyu and the others, Xie Buyu sounded confused. “Isn’t it at 5? I haven’t even left yet.”

“Hurry up,” Lou Mi urged. “I’m about to lose control here.”

As Xie Buyu and the others rushed over, Chi Lin handed out drinks, fulfilling her host duties. Then, she was going to execute her master plan. The costume party itself was just a pretext for this plan.

Chi Lin discreetly raised the central heating by 5 degrees. Everyone danced even harder, sweating profusely despite the winter weather.

“Is it just me, or is it getting really hot in here?”

“You’re dancing your head off, of course it’s hot.”

Even Lou Mi, who hadn’t danced at all, felt the heat, wiping her forehead. “What’s going on? Is the temperature wrong?”

She sensed something amiss and was about to check the thermostat when Chi Lin stopped her.

“I’m so hot, Jiejie,” Chi Lin said. “Let’s find somewhere cooler.”

Without waiting for Lou Mi’s reply, Chi Lin pulled her towards the yard. Stepping outside, the music and heat were instantly muted by the glass doors. The soundproofing was excellent, the yard a picture of tranquility.

“Is that better?” Chi Lin glanced back, making sure no one followed them out.

“Finally, a breath of fresh air.”

“If you’re still hot, you can take off your jacket,” Chi Lin suggested sincerely.

Lou Mi: “…It’s winter, and I’m only wearing two layers. You want me to take more off?”

Chi Lin: “Doesn’t our community have outdoor heating?”

“It’s still windy.”

Chi Lin spotted the greenhouse tent on the lawn. Perfect. “Let’s rest in there for a bit,” she said, pulling Lou Mi along.

A puzzled Lou Mi followed. The tent was spacious, with no need to stoop at the entrance. It felt like a small, warm bedroom.

Chi Lin had stashed two bottles of alcohol there. Time to bring them out.

“You hid alcohol?” Lou Mi asked curiously. “Shouldn’t you be chatting with your classmates? Is it okay to hide here with me?”

“I didn’t expect them to be so boisterous. Whether I’m there or not doesn’t seem to make much difference to them.” Chi Lin’s reasoning was sound. “I’ll go back when they’ve burned off some more energy.”

Lou Mi took a sip of her drink. She prefers being alone with me, she realized.

Lou Mi hadn’t had a good look at Chi Lin yet. In the long dress she’d chosen, Chi Lin looked stunning. “You know, your buzzcut doesn’t even clash with the dress,” Lou Mi said proudly. “See how well I know you? I always thought you’d look good in ancient clothing.”

Chi Lin thought, So you think I look good in mourning clothes…

Chi Lin said, “I changed my hairstyle. And this isn’t a buzzcut.” Lou Mi was making up names again, and particularly unflattering ones.

Lou Mi smiled at her. “It’s harder than iron, so what else would it be?”

Seeing Lou Mi drinking steadily, Chi Lin initiated phase two of her heating plan, discreetly raising the temperature inside the tent.

The alcohol made Lou Mi feel even warmer. “Is it just me, or is it hotter in here than in the house?”

Chi Lin casually suggested, “If you’re hot, why not take off your jacket?”

Lou Mi seemed to have a sudden epiphany. “You’re right!” she thought. She’s not only interested in my body, but she deliberately lured me into this tent alone. All this effort just to get me to take off my jacket? Something doesn’t feel right. Even as she thought this, she started unbuttoning her jacket.

Chi Lin’s eyes, already practically burning through Lou Mi’s leather jacket, now didn’t dare to blink. As Lou Mi undid two buttons, Chi Lin waited anxiously, her heart pounding at the tantalizing glimpse.

Lou Mi, meanwhile, was thoroughly enjoying Chi Lin’s conflicted expression, a mixture of desire and shyness.

Just as she was about to undo the third button, Chi Lin heard rapidly approaching footsteps!

“Mi-jie—are you in here?!” Xie Buyu’s voice.

The instant the tent flap opened, Chi Lin lunged at Lou Mi, grabbing the open edges of her jacket and pulling them together, wrapping her up tightly again.

Lou Mi almost choked.

Xie Buyu and Fu Tu, standing at the entrance, froze.

“Sorry to interrupt…” They quietly retreated.

Fu Tu, still processing what she’d just witnessed: “Whoa.”

Xie Buyu, looking satisfied: “See? I told you.”

Fu Tu: “So this is the show you wanted to show me.”

“What’s wrong with it?”

“It’s… too steamy.”

Xie Buyu: “…Are you still a virgin or something?”

Fu Tu: “What the hell are you talking about?!”

After they left, Lou Mi, gasping for air, pleaded, “Chi Lin… loosen up a bit.”

Chi Lin quickly released her.

“Sorry, I…”

Lou Mi rubbed her neck, catching her breath, then patted Chi Lin’s shoulder. Surprisingly, she didn’t seem angry, but rather amused. “I understand.”

Chi Lin: “?”

Understands that I want to be the only one to see, not wanting anyone else to catch a glimpse.

Chi Lin didn’t understand her smile. Her plan hadn’t fully succeeded; she still hadn’t seen the birthmark.

Just as Chi Lin was plotting how to get Lou Mi to undress further, fate intervened. A gust of wind shook the tent violently, loosening a string of fairy lights, sending them falling towards Lou Mi’s head.

Chi Lin instantly shielded her, the momentum almost sending Chi Lin’s face into Lou Mi’s ample bosom. This is too exciting, she thought.

Using all her skill, Chi Lin spun Lou Mi around like a windmill, avoiding the falling lights, and in the process, ended up with Lou Mi on top of her.

Before Lou Mi could grasp what had happened, she found herself looking down at a slightly disheveled Chi Lin.

Reconstructing the sequence of events, Lou Mi arrived at a delightful conclusion: So she likes me on top. Just like I thought.

Chi Lin’s arms were still gripping Lou Mi’s. The forceful movements had finally undone the third button of Lou Mi’s jacket.

At such close range, Chi Lin saw it clearly.

Lou Mi’s left chest was smooth, unblemished, with no sign of the birthmark she had been searching for.