Category: Friend(GL)

Chapter 113: Shi Ran

You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui fell asleep in each other’s arms. They hadn’t expected to sleep, but they drifted off while chatting. Zhou Tianzui, sensing the stillness beside her, turned and saw You Ruxu sleeping peacefully, she must be exhausted. Even when Zhou Tianzui gently brushed her hair away from her face, she didn’t wake.

Zhou Tianzui carefully adjusted You Ruxu’s position, making her lie flat on her back, then placed You Ruxu’s leg on her own, wanting her to be as comfortable as possible, giving her as much space as she could. When she woke up in the morning, You Ruxu was curled up, occupying only a small portion of the bed, while Zhou Tianzui had moved closer to her.

You Ruxu, hearing the alarm, quickly turned it off and waited quietly for the nurse’s morning rounds. She sat up. Zhou Tianzui also opened her eyes. You Ruxu said, “Go back to sleep, it’s still early.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What time is it?”

You Ruxu said, “6:30.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Why are you up so early?”

You Ruxu said, “I have to go to the station.”

Zhou Tianzui was silent, her hand resting on her forehead. Seeing You Ruxu get out of bed, carefully putting weight on one leg, hopping towards the wheelchair, then sitting down, she asked, “When can you remove the cast?”

“After I’m discharged.” You Ruxu said, “Another week.”

Zhou Tianzui watched as she went into the bathroom, her movements still efficient despite being in a wheelchair. You Ruxu helped Zhou Tianzui wash up, ordered them breakfast, and said, “Auntie will be here soon, you can eat together.”

“Okay.” Zhou Tianzui asked, “Aren’t you eating?”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll eat at the station.”

Zhou Tianzui nodded, watching as You Ruxu quickly got ready and called Wu Xiulian to come pick her up. Before leaving the ward, she heard Zhou Tianzui ask, “Coming for lunch?”

You Ruxu said, “Not sure yet, I might be busy, you eat first.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Okay.”

You Ruxu left the ward. Wu Xiulian was waiting for her outside. Seeing her, she asked, “Should I take you to the TV station?”

“Aunt,” You Ruxu said, “I want to go somewhere first.”

Wu Xiulian helped her into the car, sitting in the passenger seat. When they neared the cemetery, You Ruxu asked Wu Xiulian to buy her some flowers, which she held in her arms after getting out of the car. Wu Xiulian wheeled her to the tombstone.

You Ruxu said, “This is Reporter Zhou.”

The man in the photo on the tombstone looked young, a gentle smile on his face. Wu Xiulian crouched down and placed the flowers in front of the tombstone. They didn’t speak, the cold wind whipping You Ruxu’s hair around her face. She sat up straight and silently apologized to the tombstone countless times. Then she took out her phone, about to dial a number, when it rang, she looked at the caller ID, it was Yu Qiao.

You Ruxu paused, “Hello.”

“Are you free?” Yu Qiao asked. “Come over for dinner.”

You Ruxu glanced at the time, “I’m free.”

When they reached Yu Qiao’s apartment complex, Wu Xiulian wanted to go with her, but You Ruxu said, “Aunt, just wait for me here.”

Wu Xiulian, looking at her worriedly, watched as You Ruxu entered the elevator and went upstairs. When You Ruxu arrived, the door to Yu Qiao’s apartment was slightly ajar. She could smell the aroma of food, chicken soup, and a few home-cooked dishes, the timing strange, too late for breakfast, too early for lunch. Yu Qiao, hearing her enter, looked over and said, “I made the soup last night, wanted you and Xiao Tian to have something nourishing, come sit down.”

Her tone was calm and even. You Ruxu’s expression was also calm.

They sat at the dining table. Yu Qiao was wearing the same clothes as yesterday, her hair looking grayer, the wrinkles on her face more pronounced, her complexion sallow, a look of exhaustion. She served You Ruxu a bowl of rice, “When did you and Xiao Tian meet?”

You Ruxu took the bowl, sat opposite her, and said, “When she transferred to the Affiliated Hospital.”

“It’s been a few years, hasn’t it?” Yu Qiao had asked Zhou Tianzui the same question, but she wanted to hear it from You Ruxu, “Do you like her?”

You Ruxu’s throat tightened. She gripped her spoon and nodded: “Yes.”

“What do you like about her?” Yu Qiao said, “Is she easy to talk to? Easy to deceive? Or easy to manipulate?”

You Ruxu looked up, “Auntie…”

“Do you deserve to call me Auntie?” Yu Qiao looked at You Ruxu, her calm demeanor a mask for the turbulent emotions beneath, her jaw clenched. She had tossed and turned all night, wanting to confront You Ruxu, only managing to calm down this morning, preparing this meal. She said, “You Ruxu, such a beautiful name, but I prefer calling you Shi Ran.”

You Ruxu’s face paled, her heart pierced by those words, the pain rendering her speechless.

Yu Qiao continued, “Shi Ran, is that you?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

Yu Qiao took a deep breath, “You had the journal all along?”

You Ruxu was silent.

Yu Qiao said, “Should I thank you? Thank you for finally bringing it out, for clearing Zhou Qiming’s name?”

You Ruxu said, “Auntie…”

“Shut up!” Yu Qiao yelled, then seeing You Ruxu’s reaction, calmed herself down, “Xiao Tian is foolish, I don’t know what you said to her, but she still wants to be with you?” Yu Qiao looked up slightly, her eyes red, “She truly is her father’s daughter.”

Yu Qiao gritted her teeth, “She’s so filial!”

You Ruxu said, “Auntie, don’t blame her.”

“Blame her?” Yu Qiao said, “Of course I won’t blame her, she’s my daughter, if she makes a mistake, I’ll correct her. What about you? I heard you have adoptive parents? What? Didn’t they teach you how to be a decent human being?”

You Ruxu’s expression froze.

Yu Qiao continued, “How could you do this, after all these years, having a mother who gave birth to you, but not a mother who raised you?”

You Ruxu’s face paled. The spoon slipped from her hand and clattered onto the table. Yu Qiao said, “This meal, it’s for you.”

“You have a respectable job, a good family, if you hadn’t come forward, no one would have known it was you. This meal, it’s to thank you, to thank you on behalf of Zhou Qiming.” Yu Qiao said, “I should have realized it sooner.”

She had been foolish.

She should have known, seeing You Ruxu standing alone before Zhou Qiming’s grave, seeing Zhou Tianzui’s reluctance to talk about her relationship in front of his tombstone, she should have known, the connection between You Ruxu and her family.

Yu Qiao asked, “Shi Ran, don’t you feel any guilt? Being with Zhou Tianzui, how could you live with yourself? Haven’t you harmed her enough? Do you want to ruin her entire life?”

You Ruxu’s voice was soft: “Auntie, I didn’t want to harm her.”

“It’s not about what you want.” Yu Qiao said, “She finally moved on from her father’s incident, and now, being with you, if people find out, if her colleagues find out, how can she face them? She’s already been ridiculed and judged, for so many years, just let her go!”

You Ruxu said, “We’re together…”

“You’re not together!” Yu Qiao’s voice rose sharply, interrupting her, “You’re not, you were never together, you’re just friends, ordinary friends!”

You Ruxu’s words were caught in her throat.

Yu Qiao stood up: “Do you know how much I’ve hated you all these years? I wanted to die just seeing you!” Her body trembled, her hands gripping the edge of the table tightly, supporting her weight, “Yet, despite hating you so much, I still cooked for you, bought you things, cared for you, these past few years, Shi Ran, have you ever met anyone as pathetic as me?”

You Ruxu’s eyes instantly filled with tears, “I’m sorry, Auntie, it’s my fault.”

“Of course it’s your fault!” Yu Qiao said, “It wasn’t enough that you ruined our lives when you were young, and now you’re seducing Zhou Tianzui, what are you trying to do? What does our family owe you? Tell me! Do we owe you our lives? I’ll give you my life, just let Xiao Tian go!”

She stormed into the kitchen, her demeanor frantic. You Ruxu, ignoring the pain in her leg, hopped towards Yu Qiao. Yu Qiao grabbed a kitchen knife. You Ruxu called out, “Auntie!”

Yu Qiao seemed not to hear, “Whatever we owe you, I’ll repay it…”

You Ruxu, enduring the sharp pain in her leg, her face ashen, her lips bloodless, trembling slightly, hugged Yu Qiao, “Auntie, please calm down, Auntie…”

Yu Qiao pushed her away violently. You Ruxu, afraid she would hurt herself with the knife, reached out to grab the blade. Yu Qiao struggled, and as they wrestled, the knife slipped, cutting You Ruxu’s hand, blood welling up instantly. You Ruxu swayed, the pain making her dizzy. Yu Qiao, seeing the blood, froze, and You Ruxu took advantage of the moment to grab the knife, but her body, unable to support her weight, she stumbled, hitting the glass kitchen door, the glass rattling ominously.

Yu Qiao looked down at You Ruxu, who was sitting on the floor, holding the knife, her hand bleeding profusely, the blood staining her clothes, a shockingly bright red.

A sudden silence.

You Ruxu said, “Auntie, I know you hate me, that you despise me, you can hit me, yell at me, vent your anger on me.” She looked up slightly, tears streaming down her face. “Just don’t hurt yourself, okay?”

Suddenly, Yu Qiao thought of Zhou Tianzui.

“Mom, if you’re hurting, just hit me, it won’t hurt me, but don’t hurt yourself, please?”

Yu Qiao’s voice was choked with emotion, “What are you trying to do?”

“Playing the good person now?” Yu Qiao said, “It’s too late!”

You Ruxu, enduring the excruciating pain in her hand and leg, her face ashen, her lips bloodless, trembling slightly, her phone suddenly rang, breaking the tense silence, once, twice, three times.

Her hand trembling, she answered the call.

It was Chen Xiang, telling her they were waiting for her at the station.

She said, “I’ll be there soon.”

After hanging up, she struggled to stand up, placed the knife on the counter, and hopping on one leg, stood in front of Yu Qiao, “Auntie, if you want, I won’t do the interview anonymously.”

Yu Qiao didn’t reply.

You Ruxu took her silence as agreement.

She slowly made her way to the wheelchair and just as she sat down, Yu Qiao said, “You will do the interview anonymously.”

You Ruxu looked at her.

Yu Qiao said, “If you do it openly, you’ll be attacked, and Xiao Tian will feel sorry for you. Do you think I’ll give her another chance to care about you? No, Shi Ran, I want you to carry the shame of your actions for the rest of your life! Live in guilt forever!!!”

You Ruxu’s body tensed, the blood flowing freely from her hand, staining her clothes and the armrest of the wheelchair, dripping onto the white tiles.

A bright, shocking red.

A stark contrast.

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

She looked at Yu Qiao and said again, “I’m sorry.”

Then she turned and wheeled herself out of the kitchen. Just as she reached the doorway, Yu Qiao called out, “Shi Ran.”

She turned around, and Yu Qiao, holding a bowl of chicken soup, threw it at her, like dumping garbage.

Chapter 112: If

You Ruxu spent a long time feeding Zhou Tianzui, whose appetite wasn’t good, eating the porridge in small, hesitant bites. She said to You Ruxu, “You go eat.”

“I’m not hungry yet.” You Ruxu said, “Are you done?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m full.”

You Ruxu looked down at her, Zhou Tianzui’s face pale, making her eyes seem even brighter. Usually so talkative, she was unusually quiet now. Zhou Tianzui looked up, meeting You Ruxu’s gaze, “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” You Ruxu looked down. “I’m going to eat.”

She returned to the table. Yu Qiao had finished eating and was clearing the dishes. She said, “I’m not staying tonight.”

Zhou Tianzui, thinking it was because of their embrace earlier that Yu Qiao was leaving, didn’t try to persuade her to stay, just told her to be careful. After Yu Qiao left, You Ruxu picked at her cold food, her appetite gone.

A message notification. She glanced at her phone, her eyes falling on the previous message.

She scrolled up and clicked on it.

She put down her chopsticks.

Zhou Tianzui, hearing this, asked, “Are you full?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

She cleared the table, scraping the leftover food into a container, putting the trash in a separate bag, then went to the bathroom to get a warm towel for Zhou Tianzui, helping her wash her face. Zhou Tianzui adjusted the bed slightly, still lying down, trying to move, when You Ruxu said, “Don’t move.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s not that bad.”

You Ruxu said, “It still hurts.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “What about you? Don’t you hurt?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m fine now.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Then get up and walk around.”

Hitting a sore spot.

You Ruxu said, “At least I’ll be able to walk before you.”

They bickered like children, deliberately avoiding the topic of Zhou Qiming, their work, the news online, like two turtles retreating into their shells, shutting out the outside world, their conversation light and meaningless.

Zhou Tianzui, after washing her face, seeing You Ruxu still working on her laptop, said, “Not going to sleep?”

You Ruxu said, “Just a couple more emails.”

Zhou Tianzui watched her work. You Ruxu was often busy when they lived together, but they deliberately avoided each other’s work. So, whenever she saw You Ruxu working, she would go to her room, read some articles or medical journals, and wait until You Ruxu came to bed.

Recently, however, she often watched You Ruxu work.

Her focused attention, the quiet intensity, a comforting warmth.

She said, “Come here.”

You Ruxu looked up at her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Bring your laptop over.”

You Ruxu hesitated, then placed the laptop on her lap and wheeled herself over to Zhou Tianzui’s bed. Zhou Tianzui moved over slightly. The bed wasn’t big, there would be no space left if they both lay down side by side. You Ruxu, worried about Zhou Tianzui’s wound, shook her head.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Get up here.”

You Ruxu, unable to refuse, lifted the blanket, supported herself with her hands, and sat on the bed. She opened the small table attached to the bed, placed the laptop on it, the perfect distance. You Ruxu’s slender fingers flew across the keyboard. Zhou Tianzui listened to the rhythmic clicking, her head resting near You Ruxu’s waist, inhaling her scent.

She hadn’t felt sleepy before, but now, she wanted to sleep.

She closed her eyes.

You Ruxu, after sending the emails, looked down at Zhou Tianzui, her eyes closed. It had only been a few days, yet Zhou Tianzui seemed to have lost weight, not just physically, but her usual energy also seemed to have diminished. She gently brushed Zhou Tianzui’s bangs away from her forehead, and Zhou Tianzui’s eyelids fluttered open.

Still a light sleeper.

You Ruxu said, “Go to sleep, I’ll move to the other bed.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t go.”

You Ruxu placed the laptop on the bedside table, closed the small table, and lay down beside Zhou Tianzui. Zhou Tianzui held her hand, their palms slightly sweaty. You Ruxu’s leg was still uncomfortable. Zhou Tianzui said, “Put it on my leg.”

“No.” You Ruxu said, “Your leg will go numb.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s fine.”

You Ruxu carefully placed her leg on Zhou Tianzui’s, then after a few seconds, took it back. They lay side by side, the narrow bed leaving no space between them, the railings on both sides like a protective barrier, enclosing them. You Ruxu turned slightly, half lying on Zhou Tianzui, listening to her rapid heartbeat, “You’ll never fall asleep like this.”

You Ruxu said, “Then let’s not sleep.”

Zhou Tianzui looked down at her, “What do you want to do if we don’t sleep?”

You Ruxu said, “Talk.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What do you want to talk about?”

You Ruxu said, “Are you still going to be a doctor?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “We’ll talk about it after our trip.”

You Ruxu asked again, “Are we still going on that trip?”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t answer this time, just held You Ruxu’s hand tightly beneath the blanket, their fingers interlaced. You Ruxu snuggled closer, her hair brushing against Zhou Tianzui’s face. She brushed it away and said, “I’ve been thinking lately.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Thinking about what?”

“About when we first met.” You Ruxu said, “You hadn’t been at the hospital for long then.”

Zhou Tianzui had transferred from another hospital, shortly before You Ruxu came for the interview. The director had asked her to pick You Ruxu up, and later, when You Ruxu went to their office, several people had tried to convince her to assign the liaison task to them.

Zhou Tianzui could have easily taken the opportunity to curry favor, but she hadn’t.

You Ruxu said, “I was very happy.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “About what?”

You Ruxu said, “You said, you would be my contact person from now on.”

She hadn’t understood her feelings for Zhou Tianzui back then, just that the decision made her happy, Zhou Tianzui said, “You had a crush on me back then?”

A half-joking, half-serious question.

Zhou Tianzui said, “You were quite reserved.”

She hadn’t shown any signs, if she hadn’t said it now, Zhou Tianzui would never have guessed. You Ruxu said, “It wasn’t about being reserved.”

She hadn’t wanted to impose on Zhou Tianzui’s life.

She didn’t know about Zhou Tianzui’s sexual orientation, and even if they were both interested, their professions presented a huge obstacle. But people were strange, these issues, after she found out who Zhou Tianzui was, no longer seemed like obstacles.

Perhaps she needed a reason to stay by Zhou Tianzui’s side.

And atonement was the perfect excuse.

She sometimes felt Zhou Tianzui wasn’t cruel enough to her, she wanted Zhou Tianzui to torment her, yet also to love her, but when Zhou Tianzui truly showed her affection,

She couldn’t believe it.

Zhou Tianzui said, “You’re so complicated.”

You Ruxu chuckled, looking up at Zhou Tianzui, “Aren’t you complicated as well?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m not complicated, when I make a decision, it’s final.”

You Ruxu was speechless.

After a long moment, she asked, “When did you start liking me?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Why do you want to know?”

You Ruxu said, “Can’t I ask?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “You can.”

You Ruxu asked again, “When?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I don’t remember.”

You Ruxu, lying on top of her, looked into her eyes, so close that she could see her own reflection in Zhou Tianzui’s clear, bright eyes, she remembered how those eyes looked when she smiled, when she cried, when she was happy, when she was angry, like images etched in her memory, You Ruxu’s face appearing every time she closed her eyes.

You Ruxu said, “Forget it then, if you don’t remember.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Hug me tighter, maybe I’ll remember.”

You Ruxu wanted to laugh, but tears welled up in her eyes, “Am I not hugging you already?”

“That doesn’t count.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Hug me tighter.”

You Ruxu hugged her tighter, her body half draped over Zhou Tianzui’s, one leg resting on hers, her head turned to the side, Zhou Tianzui’s arm around her shoulder, You Ruxu’s soft breaths warm against her ear.

They embraced for a long time.

You Ruxu said, “Do you remember now?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Almost.”

You Ruxu looked up at Zhou Tianzui, their eyes meeting. A faint blush colored the corners of Zhou Tianzui’s eyes, a stark contrast against her pale skin, her long, thick eyelashes casting shadows, dark circles under her eyes, her expression tired and vulnerable. You Ruxu, seeing the change in her eyes, their color softening as they gazed at her, her lips parted slightly, her head tilted back, Zhou Tianzui hesitated for a moment, then lay back down on the bed.

You Ruxu asked, “What’s wrong?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It hurts.”

You Ruxu said, “Then don’t move.”

Zhou Tianzui, her arms still around You Ruxu, “I won’t move, you cooperate.”

Before You Ruxu could ask what she meant by “cooperate,” Zhou Tianzui shifted slightly, their faces now close. You Ruxu, her eyes widening slightly in surprise, felt Zhou Tianzui’s lips on hers.

Soft lips.

A light, fleeting touch, then she pulled away.

You Ruxu’s eyes reddened, one arm still around Zhou Tianzui, her other hand gently cupping Zhou Tianzui’s face, she returned the kiss.

Closing her eyes, tears welled up, dampening their hospital gowns.

It was unclear whose tears they were.

The kiss was soft and lingering, You Ruxu’s hands gently cupping Zhou Tianzui’s face, as if she couldn’t get enough, leaning in again when Zhou Tianzui pulled away slightly.

Taking the initiative, so unlike her.

After a long moment, You Ruxu released Zhou Tianzui. They lay side by side, looking at the ceiling.

You Ruxu said, “I’m doing the anonymous interview tomorrow.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Okay, come back early after you’re done.”

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

She heard Zhou Tianzui also chuckle softly.

They didn’t look at each other.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “If you hadn’t found that notebook back then, would you still have come to Jindu?”

You Ruxu looked at the fluorescent light above, its white glow tinged with other colors, a dazzling sight, and said, “No.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What would you have done?”

You Ruxu said, “I don’t know, probably listened to my mom and joined the court system?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “That would have been nice.”

You Ruxu then asked, “What about you?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I would still be a doctor.”

You Ruxu said, “That would have been nice too.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “But there’s no ‘if’.” She looked at You Ruxu, “You came to Jindu, and we met.” You Ruxu turned her head, her eyes, still slightly red from crying, clear and bright, reflecting the light.

Reflecting Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “A Ran, let’s try again, okay?”

You Ruxu looked into her eyes, then after a few seconds, wrapped her arms around Zhou Tianzui, burying her face in her embrace, holding her tightly.

Chapter 111: It Is

Zhou Tianzui didn’t go home that night, but she did change wards, moving into the same room as You Ruxu. You Ruxu was in a VIP single room, requiring a key card to enter, which deterred most visitors, and the ward became quiet. Wu Xiulian, after helping them move, seemed to have something to say to Zhou Tianzui, but with Yu Qiao and You Ruxu present, she hesitated, then said, “I’ll come back tomorrow then. Sister, are you going home with me?”

Yu Qiao said, “I’ll stay here with them, they’re both injured.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Then I’ll be going.”

She glanced at Zhou Tianzui and You Ruxu, then left.

You Ruxu saw her to the door. When she returned, she received a call from Chen Xiang, her voice as energetic as ever, “Teacher You, did anyone call you?”

“Why?” You Ruxu’s voice was calm and even as she wheeled herself back into the ward. Zhou Tianzui watched her talk on the phone, turning her head slightly. It was a single room, and she had moved her bed closer to You Ruxu’s. Yu Qiao was cutting fruit for them, her mood much improved compared to the past few days, even smiling when she entered the ward earlier, a rare sight recently.

Yu Qiao looked down, hearing You Ruxu say, “I understand.”

Chen Xiang said, “But there are still many people questioning the story online.”

After all, it was a twenty-year-old case, not easily explained with just a notebook. The online discussions were mostly doubts and demands for more evidence, a heated debate. You Ruxu said, “I’ve contacted Captain Zhou.”

Chen Xiang said, “Okay, I’ve already arranged tomorrow’s interview. You just focus on resting today.”

You Ruxu said, “I will.”

As Chen Xiang had said, after the initial shock and anger subsided, people started questioning the story, finding the timing too coincidental, how could a twenty-year-old notebook suddenly appear? If it existed, why wasn’t it presented earlier? Some even suspected that the TV station was protecting Zhou Qiming, using Zhou Tianzui’s injury to gain sympathy.

That was how rumors worked, a single seed of doubt could take root and grow.

Many people were also leaving comments on her social media, demanding more concrete evidence.

You Ruxu glanced at the time; it wasn’t even nine o’clock yet.

Yu Qiao handed her a plate of fruit, “Xiao Xu, you should eat some too.”

You Ruxu took the plate with both hands: “Thank you, thank you, Godmother.”

She looked at Zhou Tianzui, lying quietly in bed, unusually silent. You Ruxu wheeled herself over to her bedside and offered her the fruit. Zhou Tianzui looked at her for a few seconds, then took a slice of apple and ate it slowly.

You Ruxu also ate a slice, a bittersweet taste.

She heard Yu Qiao ask, “Is there still a problem?”

You Ruxu said, “No, there’s no problem.”

Just past nine o’clock, the Jindu police issued a statement, one about the preliminary results of the notebook verification, the other confirming the identity of the interviewee.

The full verification results usually took half a month, but the preliminary results were much faster. You Ruxu had asked Captain Zhou for the preliminary results, which, combined with the interviewee’s identity verification, left no room for doubt.

Of course, some people wouldn’t be convinced no matter what. But the focus of the online discussions shifted.

Shifted to the interviewee.

And a new round of digging began.

You Ruxu, seeing the numerous “revelations” online, put down her phone and ate her fruit. They hadn’t eaten much for dinner, and Yu Qiao wanted to make them some late-night snacks, but Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, don’t bother, I’m not hungry.”

“Even if you’re not hungry, Xiao Xu must be, she’s been busy all day.” Yu Qiao said, “Xiao Xu, what would you like?”

You Ruxu said, “Some fruit is fine.”

“You two need to nourish yourselves, can’t be careless, what if you develop long-term health problems later?” Yu Qiao rambled on, and You Ruxu suddenly felt a pang of nostalgia. She remembered when she first became Yu Qiao’s goddaughter, she was like this too, always fussing over her, even their phone calls would last for several minutes, ending with Yu Qiao asking, “Xiao Xu, am I being too much of a bother?”

You Ruxu had never felt bothered.

It wasn’t that long ago, but it felt like a lifetime. Now, remembering those moments, she felt a lump in her throat.

You Ruxu looked down and said, “Godmother, don’t bother, just sit down and rest.”

“I’m not tired.” Yu Qiao had been through a rollercoaster of emotions these past few days, Zhou Qiming’s case resurfacing, another wave of attacks and accusations, she thought it would be like before, another disaster, but You Ruxu had resolved it.

She felt strangely calm now, no longer resisting their relationship.

Xiao Tian was a good person.

Xiao Xu was also a good person.

Them being together, it was good.

She started imagining the trip Zhou Tianzui had described, after she recovered, the three of them traveling together.

Yu Qiao looked down.

It was just a pity, she never got to meet that child. Yu Qiao clenched her hand, then seeing You Ruxu eating her fruit, took a deep breath, and relaxed her hand. You Ruxu said she wasn’t hungry, but Yu Qiao still went out to buy her some food. Only You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui remained in the ward. You Ruxu sat by her bed, seeing her staring at the ceiling, she asked, “What are you looking at?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “My mom went out?”

“Yes, to buy some things.” You Ruxu said, “I submitted my resignation today.”

Zhou Tianzui’s gaze sharpened, focusing on You Ruxu, “What did they say?”

“They didn’t believe me.” You Ruxu said, “They all thought I was joking.”

You Ruxu, ever since joining the station, had always prioritized work, working overtime while her colleagues rested, taking on assignments no one else wanted, covering every story, big or small, working herself to exhaustion.

Even Shi Qi had said, anyone else might resign, but not her.

But she had.

Shi Qi couldn’t believe it, “Really?”

You Ruxu said, “Really.”

Her tone was calm, her expression composed. Shi Qi was completely bewildered.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Any regrets?”

You Ruxu wasn’t sure which she was referring to, Zhou Qiming’s case or her resignation. She thought for a moment, then asked Zhou Tianzui, “Do you have any regrets?”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her. They hadn’t had much time alone recently. Yu Qiao had finally agreed, a heavy burden lifted, yet it also felt like a new weight, a sense of guilt accompanying every action.

Zhou Tianzui didn’t regret her choice.

She didn’t regret it now either.

It was just painful.

She closed her eyes.

You Ruxu suddenly leaned closer, pulling on the bedsheet, sliding closer to Zhou Tianzui, reaching out to hold her hand. You Ruxu was both eloquent and inarticulate, but she knew Zhou Tianzui understood her.

Zhou Tianzui, her hand held by You Ruxu, wanted to turn over, but the movement sent a jolt of pain through her abdomen, the wound reopening, she couldn’t move, she had been lying in the same position all day, it hadn’t been uncomfortable before, but now, she suddenly wanted to turn, a restless energy coursing through her, a mix of itching and pain, her face paling, her body covered in a cold sweat.

You Ruxu, seeing this, was worried, “What’s wrong? Zhou Tianzui, what’s wrong?!”

“I’m fine.” Zhou Tianzui gritted her teeth, “I’m fine.”

Just a sudden wave of pain.

Overwhelming her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Hug me.”

She wanted to sit up, to be held. You Ruxu, ignoring the pain in her leg, got up and leaned over her, wrapping her arms around Zhou Tianzui’s waist, holding her gently through the blanket. Zhou Tianzui said, “Hold me tighter.”

You Ruxu’s embrace tightened, her arms around Zhou Tianzui’s waist. Zhou Tianzui wanted to hug her back, but her arm hurt too much, she could only rest it lightly on You Ruxu’s back.

Surrounded by each other’s familiar scent, Zhou Tianzui’s pain gradually subsided. She lay there quietly, held by You Ruxu.

Yu Qiao, entering the room without knocking, stopped abruptly, seeing them, and quickly closed the door, standing outside.

You Ruxu, hearing the noise, released Zhou Tianzui and sat in her wheelchair, looking at Zhou Tianzui for a few seconds, then wheeled herself to the door and opened it, “Godmother.”

Yu Qiao hadn’t expected to see them embracing.

Although she had been preparing herself, seeing that scene still shocked her. She looked at You Ruxu and gave a small “mm-hmm,” changing the subject, “I bought some food, have some.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay.”

She took the bag from Yu Qiao, who wheeled her back to the small dining table. Zhou Tianzui couldn’t sit up, so Yu Qiao fed her porridge. The atmosphere in the ward was slightly awkward. Yu Qiao said, “I heard downstairs that the murderer in the Fengyuan case confessed.”

You Ruxu looked up, “He did?”

Yu Qiao nodded. You Ruxu checked her phone, the messages in the group chat were flying, everyone had been focused on Zhou Qiming’s case, the Fengyuan story continued to be reported, but without much progress, and now, with the confession, there wasn’t a single mention of it in the group chat.

Because of Xu Jinwan.

You Ruxu also fell silent.

Just as she was about to exit the group chat, she received a message, an unknown number, but a number she knew too well, a number she had memorized, calling every weekend, asking, “Haven’t you received it yet? It’s a package, a file folder, with a notebook inside, the kind you use for work, black cover, there’s a name inside…”

You Ruxu opened the message: [Reporter You, it’s Ji Lanfang, do you remember me?]

Of course she remembered.

You Ruxu: [Hello, is something the matter?]

Ji Lanfang: [Nothing much, just saw you on the news today and remembered your calls, that package, it was Zhou Qiming’s work journal, right?]

You Ruxu stared at her phone, forgetting to eat.

Ji Lanfang: [Don’t misunderstand, since the interviewee chose to remain anonymous, I won’t interfere, I just admire your persistence all these years.]

You Ruxu pursed her lips, her fingers hovering over the screen, typing and deleting several times, before finally replying: [Yes, it was that package.]

After sending the message, there was no reply.

You Ruxu put down her phone and heard Zhou Tianzui say, “I’m not eating anymore.”

“Always so picky.” Yu Qiao said in exasperation, “Just starve then!”

You Ruxu, seeing this, said, “Godmother, let me feed her, you go ahead and eat.”

Yu Qiao, annoyed with Zhou Tianzui, glared at her, handed You Ruxu the bowl and spoon, and said, “Let her be if she doesn’t want to eat, you haven’t finished yet.”

“My food’s a little too hot, I’ll eat it later.” You Ruxu said, “You go ahead and eat, you haven’t had dinner yet.”

Yu Qiao nodded, sat at the table, and watched You Ruxu coax Zhou Tianzui to eat, the scene from when she entered the ward earlier replaying in her mind, a wave of complex emotions washing over her. Talk about acceptance, that scene was quite a shock, but not unacceptable.

Yu Qiao was trying to convince herself, breaking apart her disposable chopsticks, when she saw You Ruxu’s phone light up.

A new message notification.

She glanced at it unintentionally and saw the message on the screen: [You’re that little girl, aren’t you?]

Chapter 110: Agreement

The online rumors about Zhou Tianzui’s father reached a fever pitch after You Ruxu’s report.

Wrongful accusations, misunderstandings, a belated truth.

These were common tropes in TV dramas, a long-awaited revelation, the wrongly accused finally cleared, the protagonist vindicated, a seemingly perfect ending with a bittersweet undercurrent.

Such stories could be discussed endlessly in dramas, let alone in real life. It sparked heated online discussions. After You Ruxu’s report, the TV station’s hotlines were overwhelmed with calls.

All three teams’ lines were busy. The usually bustling TV station was eerily quiet. The station director stood in the meeting room, holding Zhou Qiming’s work journal, his voice filled with emotion, some of the people below teary-eyed.

You Ruxu stood at the doorway, looking inside. Everyone listened attentively.

The Zhou Qiming incident had a significant impact on the station, accused of a cover-up, demands for a thorough investigation, the station director almost dismissed. After the initial chaos subsided, some people even blamed Zhou Qiming.

Saying he was shameless for doing such a thing.

Those people were no longer at the station, but their hurtful words lingered.

It was the same online.

The initial criticism and insults, following You Ruxu’s report, were replaced by an eerie silence.

Then an outpouring of anger and sympathy.

[Zhou Qiming was slandered for over twenty years? I heard from my mom that it was a huge scandal back then, his family suffered the most, several suicide attempts, saved each time, then accused of faking it.]

[If this wasn’t real, I wouldn’t believe it. A reporter who fought for justice, labeled a rapist after his death, how ironic!]

[Then why was he accused of being a rapist? I thought it was strange before, even the police hadn’t concluded he was the perpetrator, so why was everyone condemning him? And those who were vehemently attacking him online a few days ago, just for saying the police hadn’t reached a conclusion, were accused of defending a rapist, do these people not have to take responsibility for their words?]

[Why do you all believe this reporter? What if it’s just another act, like back then? I heard this You Ruxu is friends with Dr. Zhou from the First Affiliated Hospital.]

[A dark heart sees darkness everywhere. Why don’t you look up Reporter You Ruxu’s credentials? She was the one who reported on the Fengyuan incident, risking her life, you probably didn’t know that, did you? Oh, of course you didn’t, who paid you to say such ignorant things?]

Those trying to manipulate public opinion were quickly called out.

If it were any other reporter, it might not have been so convincing, but You Ruxu, in the past year, from the fireworks factory explosion to the Fengyuan case, her reports had made a lasting impression on the public, her ability to steer public opinion back on track during times of crisis, upholding the principles of fairness, justice, and transparency, fearlessly facing pressure and threats, her name synonymous with integrity. People remembered the chaos after the fireworks factory explosion, how the marketing accounts tried to manipulate the narrative, yet her reports remained unbiased, a beacon of truth, firm and unwavering.

Now, with her reporting on this story, it added another layer of credibility.

And with trust, came sympathy and regret.

[Even TV dramas wouldn’t dare to portray something like this.]

[I can’t even imagine what they went through.]

[I really admire Dr. Zhou, being able to become a doctor, to maintain such a strong spirit, in such circumstances, Zhou Qiming was a hero, and so is she.]

[This is the first time I’ve truly understood the meaning of ‘the world kisses me with pain, I return it with a song.’]

Chen Xiang, holding her laptop, said to You Ruxu, “Teacher You, have you seen the trending topics?”

You Ruxu said, “What trending topics?”

“This one.” Chen Xiang said, showing her the screen.

The headline: [The world kisses me with pain, I return it with a song.]

You Ruxu didn’t need to click on it to know it was about Zhou Tianzui, her eyes burning slightly, “I can’t believe Dr. Zhou went through so much, how did she endure it all these years, she’s amazing.”

“Teacher You, have you read the comments?”

You Ruxu read some of them, the previous insults and accusations gone, replaced by a wave of sympathy and anger, not just for Zhou Qiming’s wrongful conviction, but also for the blind and reckless public opinion that had condemned him.

Those rumors and gossip, they were invisible killers.

You Ruxu looked down, then after a moment of silence, excused herself and wheeled herself out.

Chen Xiang watched her go.

From the Zhou Qiming case many years ago to Zhou Tianzui now, public opinion seemed to be an inescapable force. Kind people were easily deceived, blinded by misleading narratives, which was why reporters were needed, why persistence was crucial.

Chen Xiang suddenly remembered You Ruxu’s words, words she often repeated.

Uncover the truth, report it truthfully.

At this moment, she truly understood the weight and significance of those words.

You Ruxu received a call from Yu Qiao just as she left the TV station, “Who was that person?”

You Ruxu opened her mouth, then closed it, unable to speak.

Yu Qiao continued, “Xiao Xu, I’m not asking for anything else, just tell me who that person was, they…”

“Mom, what are you doing?” The call was interrupted. Yu Qiao looked at Zhou Tianzui, who had turned off the TV. The room was quiet. Yu Qiao held the phone. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Were you calling You Ruxu?”

She had been watching TV, not paying attention to Yu Qiao, only hearing her after the TV was turned off.

Yu Qiao had been trying to call You Ruxu, her phone was off, and when she finally got through, Zhou Tianzui saw it.

Yu Qiao said, “I just wanted to ask Xiao Xu something.”

“Are you asking her who that person was?” Zhou Tianzui asked, the words difficult to say, a wave of nausea and self-loathing washing over her. She clenched her hands, forcing herself to speak, “Don’t ask, she can’t violate her professional ethics.”

Seeing Yu Qiao’s stunned silence.

She closed her eyes, “Do you want her to lose her job?”

“I…” Yu Qiao quickly said, “No, of course not, I’m very grateful to Xiao Xu, she did so much for us.”

Zhou Tianzui couldn’t bear to hear any more, “Don’t mention it.”

“Mom, let’s not talk about this anymore.” Zhou Tianzui’s voice was strained, her body weak and exhausted. She turned her head away, her forehead covered in sweat. Yu Qiao said, “You…”

Yu Qiao looked at her, thinking she was overwhelmed by emotions, remembering her father, remembering his name finally cleared after so many years, hence her distress. She didn’t dare say anything more, just nodded, “Okay, Mom won’t mention it again.”

Not mentioning it didn’t mean she didn’t want to.

After twenty years.

Finally, no more whispers behind her back, no more pointing fingers and accusations, finally, she could proudly say, my husband was a good reporter. She felt both happiness and a deep sorrow.

Yu Qiao wiped away her tears, “Xiao Tian, I’m going out to buy some things, you rest.”

Zhou Tianzui nodded in agreement.

After Yu Qiao left, she looked at her phone, not calling You Ruxu, the guilt and self-blame preventing her from reaching out, afraid to contact her, to send a message, even a single word felt like a betrayal.

Zhou Tianzui closed her eyes.

You Ruxu’s call was disconnected by Yu Qiao. Wu Xiulian, waiting downstairs, saw her come out and wheeled her wheelchair over, asking, “Did you send the notebook for verification?”

“Yes.” You Ruxu said, “I just sent it.”

Wu Xiulian asked, “Going back to the hospital?”

You Ruxu, remembering Yu Qiao’s phone call earlier, started to say, “Aunt…”

“Xu Xu.” Wu Xiulian said, “I’m the one who wronged Dr. Zhou and her mother, not you, don’t take the blame for my mistakes.”

You Ruxu’s eyes reddened. Wu Xiulian continued, “I contacted your mother before you went on air. Xu Xu, no matter your decision, your father and I will support you.”

“If you want, we can also issue a public apology.”

You Ruxu’s heart clenched, she sat in the passenger seat, her hand gripping the seatbelt, her head turned towards the window, her voice low, “Aunt, is my mom angry?”

Wu Xiulian’s nose tingled. She blinked back tears, took a deep breath, and said, “No.”

You Ruxu lowered her head.

She said, “I’ve wronged them.”

“It’s me who wronged you.”

You Ruxu looked down at her hands and said, “We decided to do an anonymous interview.”

Wu Xiulian was silent.

She had heard it in the news, but hearing it from You Ruxu again, it still felt surreal. She knew it wasn’t just You Ruxu’s decision, but both of theirs.

You Ruxu had carried this burden of guilt for so many years, and now, she was choosing to continue carrying it, so was Zhou Tianzui.

Because of this precious and hard-won love.

Zhou Tianzui truly loved You Ruxu.

More than they could imagine.

Wu Xiulian wiped away You Ruxu’s tears, “Don’t cry, I’ll take you to the hospital.”

She started the car, its headlights cutting through the darkness, the red taillights blinking as they turned onto another street. When they arrived at the hospital, Zhou Tianzui’s ward was crowded, nurses, security guards, and patients in hospital gowns, all holding gifts.

“Dr. Zhou needs to rest, please come back later.” The nurses patiently tried to disperse the crowd. Two pregnant women handed over their fruit baskets, “Please give these to Dr. Zhou, we wish her a speedy recovery.”

The nurses barely had time to respond before the women walked away. You Ruxu appeared at the doorway, and the crowd, recognizing her, parted, “It’s that reporter.”

“Reporter You.” You Ruxu looked over, it was a colleague, who waved at her, then was stopped by a nurse. The crowd made way, and You Ruxu was wheeled into the ward.

Compared to the commotion outside, the ward was quiet. Zhou Tianzui, lying in bed, looked over, hearing the door open. Seeing You Ruxu, she said, “You’re here.”

Her voice was hoarse.

You Ruxu asked, “Where’s Auntie?”

“She said she was going out to buy something.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Is there still a crowd outside?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

After You Ruxu’s report, many media outlets tried to contact her, but the nurses stopped them at the door. The commotion attracted the attention of other patients, and word spread, more people gathering outside, wanting to visit Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Can I be discharged tomorrow?”

She was a doctor herself, yet she was asking You Ruxu.

You Ruxu said, “No, your wound hasn’t healed yet.”

Just then, the door opened, and Yu Qiao entered, “Why are there so many people outside?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Reporters, they want to interview me.”

There were also other appointments, but Zhou Tianzui had asked the nurses to cancel them.

Yu Qiao said, “You’re still recovering, don’t bother with the interviews, just tell Xiao Xu what you want to say, she can report on it.” She looked at You Ruxu, her attitude much warmer, “Right, Xiao Xu?”

You Ruxu nodded: “Yes, Auntie, if you have anything you want to say, you can tell me.”

“I…” Yu Qiao looked down, a bitter smile on her face. “What else is there to say? It’s been so many years.”

The damage caused, it couldn’t be undone.

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Yu Qiao said, “And, you don’t have to call me Auntie anymore.” You Ruxu looked up. Yu Qiao smiled at her, “Call me Godmother.”

You Ruxu’s expression changed slightly.

Unlike the previous time, when it was Zhou Tianzui’s request, this time, it was Yu Qiao offering.

It meant she accepted their relationship.

Such a huge step.

Something You Ruxu hadn’t even dared to dream of. She looked at Yu Qiao, her throat constricting, noticing how much she seemed to have aged these past few days, the gray strands at her temples more visible now, yet the smile on her face so warm and genuine. You Ruxu quickly looked away, her gaze meeting Zhou Tianzui’s.

She bit her lip hard, drawing blood, the metallic taste filling her mouth, snapping her back to reality. She looked at Yu Qiao and called out, “Godmother.”

Chapter 109: The Truth

Should she report it?

You Ruxu looked at the press pass in her hand. Countless times, she had dreamt of revealing the truth as a reporter, of standing in front of the camera, apologizing to Zhou Qiming, countless times she had woken up, looking at her press pass, the urge to correct the past overwhelming.

But she hadn’t.

You Ruxu closed her eyes and said, “I’m not reporting on it.”

Zhou Tianzui looked up at her.

You Ruxu’s eyes were red and swollen, but her expression was calm, her voice soft, their eyes meeting, “It can’t be me.”

Even though this was the story she had dreamt of, obsessed over, she couldn’t report on it. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Why not?”

You Ruxu said, “If I report on it, how can I prove its truthfulness?”

If she, as a reporter, presented this notebook, if she, as a reporter, reported on this story, her credibility, built over the years, would crumble. In the past two years, she had covered many stories, earning the public’s trust, and if she reported on Zhou Qiming’s case as a party involved, it would undermine the story’s credibility.

Not her own credibility, but the truth of the matter.

She couldn’t report on it.

“Didn’t you say you could do an anonymous interview?” Zhou Tianzui’s voice was tense, “Do it anonymously then.”

You Ruxu looked at her, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I don’t want to hurt anyone else for the sake of the truth.”

You Ruxu said, “But it’s what you deserve.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, it’s what we deserve.” She said, “Then what about you?”

“What do you want me to do?”

Zhou Tianzui gave a bitter laugh, “Do you want me to ignore the danger you’ll be in?”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui’s tightly controlled emotions were on the verge of breaking. Her voice rose, “You Ruxu, do you think I can do that? If you were me, what would you do? How would you choose? Would you, for the sake of your father’s reputation, push me, push my family, into hell?”

You Ruxu started to say, “I…”

Zhou Tianzui said, “If you can, then let Chen Xiang report on it.”

You Ruxu looked down.

Zhou Tianzui looked away. Even now, she was being selfish. She knew this was You Ruxu’s burden, and she hoped You Ruxu could face it herself. She also knew that if they didn’t publish the story anonymously.

They would have no future together.

Even now.

She was still thinking about their future.

Zhou Tianzui covered her eyes with her hands, tears welling up. She buried her face in the pillow, her heart aching, a suffocating pain, but she suppressed her sobs. She felt she had failed Zhou Qiming.

She had failed Yu Qiao.

She didn’t deserve to be a daughter.

You Ruxu, seeing her trembling shoulders, leaned over and gently hugged her. Zhou Tianzui suddenly grabbed her hand and bit down, her teeth sinking into You Ruxu’s skin, then she hesitated, unable to bring herself to bite any harder.

You Ruxu said, “Just bite…”

Her slightly choked voice only intensified Zhou Tianzui’s need to release her emotions. She bit down, hard, drawing blood, the metallic taste filling her mouth, then released You Ruxu’s hand. A deep bite mark remained on You Ruxu’s arm.

Blood.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Now we’re even.”

You Ruxu murmured, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ve given you the notebook, whether to give it to Chen Xiang or not, it’s your choice.”

Choose her.

Or choose her father.

Zhou Tianzui thought, she was also being quite cruel.

You Ruxu left the ward. Yu Qiao rushed over, “What’s wrong with Xiao Tian?”

“She’s not feeling well.” You Ruxu said, “Auntie, I have to go to the station.”

Yu Qiao nodded, “Okay, okay.” Her gaze was filled with trust, making You Ruxu feel even more uncomfortable, like sitting on pins and needles. Only after reaching the elevator was she able to breathe again.

Wu Xiulian drove her to the TV station. They ran into Shi Qi just as they arrived.

Seeing You Ruxu, Shi Qi rushed over, “Xiao Xu, I heard the informant contacted you?”

You Ruxu looked at her and nodded, “Yes.”

“Was it—was it the victim?” Shi Qi asked, “Was it the victim herself?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

“Who was it?” Shi Qi asked, then realizing she had overstepped, “I knew it, I knew our senior colleague was a good man.”

You Ruxu carefully took the notebook from her bag and handed it to her, “This is his work journal.”

Shi Qi said, “I’ll have it verified.”

You Ruxu said, “Wait a moment, I need to take some photos first.”

Shi Qi nodded and asked, “I thought you were going to give this to Chen Xiang?”

You Ruxu’s leg wasn’t fully healed yet, not being able to report on the story herself was understandable. Shi Qi didn’t think much of it. You Ruxu paused and asked, “Where’s Chen Xiang?”

Shi Qi said, “She’s inside.”

You Ruxu, wheeled in by Shi Qi, hadn’t been to Team 2’s office for a while. Her colleagues, seeing her, were stunned, then crowded around her excitedly, “Teacher You!”

“Teacher You, you’re finally back!”

“We missed you so much, Teacher You!”

Hearing the commotion, people from the other two teams peeked in.

“You Ruxu is back.”

“Is she discharged?”

“Doesn’t seem so, she’s still in a wheelchair.”

You Ruxu was surrounded, people offering her tea, water, fruit, and biscuits. She smiled faintly, declining their offers, and asked, “Where’s Chen Xiang?”

“She’s in the meeting room.” Another reporter said, “Should I take you there?”

You Ruxu said, “Please.”

Chen Xiang, hearing a knock on the door, turned around and, seeing You Ruxu, her eyes lit up, “Teacher You!”

She was surprised, “What are you doing here? You, you, you’re discharged? The doctor said you needed to stay for another week!”

You Ruxu said, “Not yet.”

She was wearing her usual professional attire, her injuries hidden beneath her clothes, her makeup impeccable, her hair neatly styled. If it weren’t for the wheelchair, she would look no different from usual, hence Chen Xiang’s surprise.

She said, “Then why aren’t you resting at the hospital? Are you worried about Dr. Zhou? We’re discussing it in the meeting right now.”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll join you.”

She looked at Chen Xiang, “Is that alright?”

“Of course!” Chen Xiang said, “We were just discussing the anonymous interview, should we invite them to the station, or do it elsewhere?”

You Ruxu said, “Elsewhere.”

Chen Xiang said, “That’s also fine, but the equipment will be a little more troublesome, I’ll ask…”

You Ruxu said, “It’s just the two of us.”

Chen Xiang let out a small gasp of surprise, then realized, “The interviewee’s request?”

You Ruxu nodded, “Yes.”

Chen Xiang said, “I understand.”

The person beside her clicked her tongue, “Probably knows she’ll be criticized if she comes to the station, not only wrongly accusing Senior Zhou all those years ago, but now not even having the guts to come to the station.”

“If she had the guts, she wouldn’t have chosen to be anonymous, how old was she back then? A few years old, we can say she was just a child, but now, after all these years, she’s almost thirty, and she can’t even face her mistakes, can’t even apologize properly.”

“That’s not entirely fair.” The cameraman sat beside You Ruxu, “The police didn’t use her statement as evidence back then, officially, she has no obligation to do this interview.”

You Ruxu’s fingers traced the edge of the document in her hand.

Chen Xiang said, “Regardless, this isn’t the time for criticism, Teacher You, so it’s just the two of us going.”

You Ruxu paused for a few seconds, then nodded.

She said, “Chen Xiang, there are some things I want to discuss with you privately.”

Chen Xiang responded with an “okay” and said to the others, “Let’s adjourn the meeting for now, everyone go back and organize the information I just sent.”

Everyone left.

Chen Xiang turned to You Ruxu, “Teacher You, have you met with the interviewee?”

You Ruxu asked, “Why do you ask?”

“I’m a little worried.” Chen Xiang said, “What if we announce the interview, and then she backs out at the last minute…?” Usually, they recorded the interview before releasing the news, but Zhou Tianzui’s situation was urgent, and since it involved a former employee of the station, the public reaction was even more intense, everyone hoping the online attacks and criticism would stop.

You Ruxu said, “She won’t back out.”

Her voice was hollow, “She won’t.”

Hearing such a certain answer, Chen Xiang’s worries dissipated. She breathed a sigh of relief, “Teacher You, you’re amazing, how did you manage to contact her?”

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

She asked, “The evening news hasn’t started yet, has it?”

Chen Xiang said, “Not yet.”

You Ruxu said, “Can you ask their team leader to come here?”

Chen Xiang agreed and hurried out.

Outside, the sky gradually darkened. Zhou Tianzui lay in bed, Yu Qiao sitting beside her, feeding her porridge. Zhou Tianzui didn’t have much of an appetite, and after a few bites, said, “Mom, turn on the TV.”

“Why watch TV while you’re eating?” Despite her words, Yu Qiao still turned on the TV. Zhou Tianzui changed the channel to Jindu TV. Yu Qiao stirred the porridge in the bowl, “Don’t watch too much TV.”

She actually meant, don’t read those comments online.

She hadn’t paid attention to them before, but today, the barrage of online comments almost broke her, she didn’t know how to respond, how to refute them, she just wanted to smash her phone, angry at those who made assumptions and hurled insults without knowing the truth, she didn’t want Zhou Tianzui to suffer the same fate, so she took away her phone.

Zhou Tianzui didn’t ask for her phone back, just quietly watched the news.

The familiar melody, the familiar anchor, the familiar tone.

Yu Qiao said, “Xiao Tian, what did your director say? Will this affect your work?”

Zhou Tianzui just hummed in response.

Yu Qiao said, “About your father, I…”

“We have a special guest on tonight’s evening news.”

“Hello everyone, I’m You Ruxu, a reporter from Jindu TV’s midday news team. Regarding the recent online discussions about Reporter Zhou Qiming, the father of Dr. Zhou, who was recently attacked at the First Affiliated Hospital, we received a call from another party involved this afternoon, providing details about what happened all those years ago. This person also agreed to an anonymous interview, to clear Reporter Zhou Qiming’s name. We will now reveal excerpts from his work journal…”

On screen, You Ruxu sat straight, her hair neatly styled, her makeup impeccable, the studio lights illuminating her face, her features magnified. Zhou Tianzui watched her, her expression calm, but the veins on the back of her hand, gripping the notebook, were bulging.

Yu Qiao was silent.

She stood up, looking at the screen, took two steps forward, and the spoon in her hand slipped, falling to the floor, shattering into pieces.

The camera zoomed in on You Ruxu’s hands and the notebook, her slender, pale fingers against the black cover a stark contrast. You Ruxu’s eyelashes trembled slightly, she pursed her lips, suppressing her emotions as she opened the notebook to the first page.

Written on the cover page.

Jindu Midday News Team, Zhou Qiming.

Her expression was solemn, as if she wasn’t just opening a notebook,

But a truth buried for over twenty years, a truth unknown to the world.

Chapter 108: Apology

“Ding!” The spoon in You Ruxu’s hand slipped, hitting the edge of the lunchbox with a clink. She looked at Wu Xiulian, her expression blank, her eyes instantly welling up with tears. She opened her mouth, but her throat was tight, unable to speak.

Wu Xiulian looked at her, “Xu Xu, do you remember when you first came to live with us?”

You Ruxu, after a long moment, found her voice, her voice hoarse, “Does it matter?”

“When you first arrived, you were so cautious, always trying to please everyone, I knew you were afraid my sister would send you away, regret adopting you. You wanted a home, even a fake one, you pretended to be You Ruxu, suppressed your true self, played the role of a deceased child.” Wu Xiulian said, “My heart ached for you back then.”

You Ruxu remembered those first few years after being adopted, how kind Wu Xiulian had been to her, taking her out to play, letting her make mistakes, only in front of Wu Xiulian could she truly be herself, not “You Ruxu.”

Wu Xiulian continued, “You knew my sister just needed something to hold onto, you knew my brother-in-law cared about appearances, so you played the role willingly, because you thought you were a good child, a child deserving of a home.”

But that notebook.

Shattered all of You Ruxu’s carefully constructed beliefs.

She had a persistent fever during that time, on and off for over a week, no other symptoms, just a fever. The doctors told her there was nothing wrong with her physically.

If there was nothing wrong physically, then it was a mental issue, a sickness of the heart, You Ruxu felt she wasn’t worthy of being a good child, she didn’t deserve it.

She started to loathe herself.

If the notebook incident implicated You Ruxu, implicated the You family, You Ruxu, already feeling guilty towards Zhou Qiming, would feel even more guilty towards Wu Xiulian and You Shu.

She wouldn’t have been able to handle it.

Back then, You Ruxu would have chosen death over the shame.

Wu Xiulian’s mother had just lost a daughter, she didn’t want to see her lose another, her sister couldn’t bear it, and she didn’t want to see You Ruxu destroy herself, so she chose to hide the truth.

You Ruxu’s voice was choked with emotion, “So, the notebook, it wasn’t lost?”

It was just hidden by Wu Xiulian?

She shook her head.

As if unable to accept it.

Wu Xiulian called out to her, “Xu Xu.”

You Ruxu was in a daze, wanting to leave, when Zhou Tianzui suddenly grabbed the armrest of her wheelchair. You Ruxu looked down at Zhou Tianzui.

Her voice choked with tears, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Zhou Tianzui’s voice was low and steady, “Yes.”

You Ruxu said, “I’m sorry.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I heard you.”

You Ruxu broke down, “I’m sorry! I’m sorry! I’m sorry…”

Zhou Tianzui was speechless.

This time, she couldn’t say “it’s okay.”

She knew about the notebook, You Ruxu had told her after confessing everything, she had finally come to terms with it being lost, and now she was told it was hidden all along.

Logically, she should be angry, disgusted by Wu Xiulian’s actions.

But emotionally.

She felt a deep sense of exhaustion and helplessness.

Wu Xiulian put down her spoon, took the notebook from her bag, and handed it to You Ruxu.

You Ruxu suddenly didn’t dare take it.

She asked, “You’ve been carrying it with you all this time?”

“No.” Wu Xiulian said, “I kept it safe, I came to Jindu this time to tell you about it.”

But she had been hesitant, unsure whether to tell her.

Seeing You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui’s relationship deepen, she didn’t know if she should tell them, or keep the secret forever.

If it wasn’t for Zhou Qiming’s name being dragged through the mud again, would she have brought it out?

Or would she have continued to avoid it, like she had countless times before?

She didn’t know.

You Ruxu reached out, her hand trembling. She looked at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui reached out before her and took the notebook, opening it.

A work journal, the front page usually containing the name of the organization and the person’s name.

Jindu TV Midday News Team, Zhou Qiming.

Zhou Tianzui abruptly closed the notebook.

Wu Xiulian said, “Dr. Zhou…”

“Get out.” Zhou Tianzui’s voice trembled as she suppressed her emotions. “Both of you, get out.”

You Ruxu’s eyes burned. She turned her wheelchair and left, Wu Xiulian beside her. Reaching the door, they heard a soft sob from behind, and You Ruxu’s heart clenched, a sharp pain, her hand gripping the wheel of the wheelchair so tightly her knuckles turned white.

Wu Xiulian opened the door.

You Ruxu, in a daze, slowly wheeled herself out.

Her back to Zhou Tianzui, the door gently closing behind her. Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu, I’m sorry, it’s my fault.”

You Ruxu didn’t speak, her voice choked with emotion.

She said, “Aunt, I need some air.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I’ll go with you.”

You Ruxu said, “You stay here, my mother isn’t back yet.”

Wu Xiulian paused for a few seconds, then nodded.

You Ruxu took the elevator alone. It was crowded, and people moved aside, giving her space, considerate of her injury. You Ruxu moved to the back of the elevator, her head lowered.

“How’s that doctor doing?”

“Which one?”

“The one who was stabbed.”

“Oh, the one from the obstetrics department? I heard she’s okay. Hey, didn’t you hear, her father wasn’t a good person, a rapist.”

“What?”

You Ruxu closed her eyes.

The elevator reached the lobby.

Sounds from all directions assaulted her ears.

“That child’s mother died.”

“The one who jumped from the building?”

“I heard it was attempted rape.”

“Who said that? She was raped, then she and the man died together, there was also a good samaritan who tried to help, but he was also dragged down with them.”

“That’s so unlucky, who was the good samaritan?”

“I don’t know, seems like he didn’t have any family, otherwise, there would have been a huge fuss.”

“That child was strange, she didn’t even cry.”

“Her mother was raped, and she didn’t even cry, so cold-blooded.”

Raped?

What was “raped”?

She didn’t know.

But she knew it wasn’t good, that it meant someone had hurt her mother.

Her mother had been crying a lot recently, going into a room with that man, then coming out crying. She had asked her mother what was wrong, and her mother always said it was nothing.

She didn’t like that man, he reminded her of her father.

She was afraid her mother would be hurt again.

She hated that man.

If he wasn’t around, her mother wouldn’t cry anymore.

“Little girl, don’t be afraid, tell me, which one of these two men hurt your mommy?”

Numbly, she had pointed at the man.

The people around her exchanged glances.

A woman rushed in.

“You’re lying, aren’t you?!” The woman screamed at her, “You’re lying!”

She wasn’t lying.

She wasn’t!

She wanted to hide.

Yes, to hide.

You Ruxu instinctively tried to move, but her leg gave way, and she fell from the wheelchair. People rushed over, their concerned voices surrounding her.

She sat there, unable to respond.

She turned the wheelchair and quickly moved away.

“Hey!”

The voices faded behind her. You Ruxu couldn’t hear them anymore. She leaned against the cold, white tiles, her head hitting the wall with a thud, and started crying softly.

She had so many chances to tell the truth.

So many chances.

But she didn’t!

She didn’t!

She didn’t!!

You Ruxu kept her head lowered, the weight of her guilt preventing her from straightening her back. If she had told Wu Xiulian earlier, if she had come clean, would Zhou Qiming’s name have been cleared sooner?

It was her, selfishly enjoying her relationship with Zhou Tianzui, she was the shameless one.

You Ruxu leaned against the wall, her head resting on the cold tiles, a sharp pain radiating from her heart, those invisible wounds tearing her apart, healing, then reopening, hot oil pouring onto the raw flesh, the pain consuming her.

Her phone rang.

You Ruxu was in a daze. A nurse, passing by, seeing her phone ringing, said, “Your phone’s ringing.”

She looked up at the nurse.

The nurse’s voice seemed distant and distorted. You Ruxu only heard the nurse’s concerned voice, a cacophony of sounds assaulting her ears before she closed her eyes, her mind reeling.

You Ruxu fainted.

Wu Xiulian rushed to her ward. The doctor said it was an emotional breakdown, nothing physically wrong. Wu Xiulian breathed a sigh of relief, sat by the bed, listening to You Ruxu’s phone ring incessantly. She came back to her senses and answered the call.

It was Chen Xiang.

Chen Xiang said, “Teacher You, what time is that interview scheduled for?”

Wu Xiulian said, “I’m sorry, she’s resting.”

“Oh—” Chen Xiang realized, “I’m sorry, is this her mother?”

Wu Xiulian gave a noncommittal “mm-hmm,” “I’m her aunt.”

“Hello, Auntie.” Chen Xiang said, “Teacher You’s resting? Could you please ask her to call me back when she wakes up?”

Wu Xiulian said, “Okay.”

Chen Xiang hung up.

Just as Wu Xiulian put down the phone, she heard a weak voice behind her, “Aunt.”

Wu Xiulian turned around.

You Ruxu was awake, staring at the ceiling. Wu Xiulian leaned closer, “Xu Xu, if you’re unhappy, you can yell at me, but don’t hurt yourself.”

Yell at her?

You Ruxu shook her head.

Wu Xiulian did it for her.

If it wasn’t for her, Wu Xiulian wouldn’t have done such a thing. She couldn’t yell at her.

She asked, “Where’s Zhou Tianzui?”

Wu Xiulian said, “She’s still in her ward, refusing visitors.”

Yu Qiao was also refusing visitors, saying she needed to rest. Yu Qiao thought it was because of the incident at the hospital and had calmed down somewhat.

You Ruxu said, “I’m going to see her.”

Wu Xiulian said, “You should rest…”

“I can’t rest anymore.” You Ruxu said, “I’ve rested for far too long.”

Wu Xiulian was silent.

She wheeled You Ruxu to Zhou Tianzui’s ward, Yu Qiao, seeing them, asked, “What happened to Xiao Tian?”

You Ruxu said, “I, Auntie, I…” Her eyes reddened before she could speak, her voice choked with emotion, “I’ll go ask her.”

Yu Qiao looked at her, then after a few seconds, nodded, “Okay, go ahead.”

You Ruxu opened the door and entered, hearing Zhou Tianzui’s angry voice, “I said, leave me alone!”

“Zhou Tianzui.” You Ruxu’s voice was soft. Zhou Tianzui opened her eyes and saw You Ruxu in her wheelchair, “Give me the notebook.”

Zhou Tianzui was holding the notebook, she didn’t dare open it, just looking at the name on the cover had taken all her strength and courage. You Ruxu wheeled herself closer, extended her hand, and said, “Give it to me, I’ll give it to Chen Xiang, she’ll publish the story…”

She looked at Zhou Tianzui, her face pale and gaunt, her eyes red and swollen, her expression blank. Zhou Tianzui looked at her, then suddenly said, “Hug me.”

You Ruxu froze.

Zhou Tianzui repeated, “Can you hug me?”

You Ruxu bit her lip, her outstretched hand moving to Zhou Tianzui’s shoulder, pulling her into an embrace. She tried to lean closer, but Zhou Tianzui’s hand on her waist, although light, held her in place. You Ruxu buried her face in Zhou Tianzui’s embrace and started crying softly.

Zhou Tianzui looked away.

You Ruxu started apologizing again, over and over.

Zhou Tianzui didn’t respond.

You Ruxu’s crying intensified, her breathing ragged. Zhou Tianzui handed her the notebook. You Ruxu slowly pulled away, looking at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Take it.”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll ask Chen Xiang to publish it as soon as possible…”

“You publish it.” Zhou Tianzui interrupted her, opening the drawer of the bedside table, and taking out You Ruxu’s press pass, handing it to her.

You Ruxu looked down at the press pass, her emotions, tightly coiled, threatening to unravel, her hand trembling as she reached for it, the press pass warm in her hand.

Chapter 107: Evidence

You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, who was lying in bed, wanting to sit up, but unable to, her attempts futile, her forehead covered in sweat, her face pale, her lips bitten red. She looked at You Ruxu, a pleading look in her eyes, shaking her head slightly.

She was begging her.

Not to agree.

You Ruxu’s heart tore in two, half for Zhou Tianzui’s silent plea, half for the hopeful look in Yu Qiao’s eyes. Yu Qiao’s hand gripped hers tightly. After a few seconds, she said, “We’ll find a way.”

Zhou Tianzui, exhausted, lay back against the pillows, staring at the ceiling light. Yu Qiao’s voice was filled with gratitude, “I knew you would find a way, Xiao Xu, please help Xiao Tian.”

You Ruxu nodded, “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui turned her head away.

Yu Qiao said, “I’m going to talk to her director.”

“I’ll go.” You Ruxu said, “I’ll go.”

Zhou Tianzui’s voice was sharp, almost hysterical, “No, you won’t!”

You Ruxu said, “Zhou Tianzui…”

“I said, you’re not going!” Zhou Tianzui said, “You dare go?”

She looked at You Ruxu.

Their eyes met, and You Ruxu’s breath hitched, her heart skipping a beat, a numbness spreading through her before she recovered, “Let’s deal with the hospital issue first.”

Otherwise, this would snowball. Currently, it was Zhou Tianzui’s voluntary resignation, but later, it might become a dismissal, the implications different. If she was fired, how could she continue working in the same field?

Zhou Tianzui said, “You don’t have to deal with anything.”

Yu Qiao was exasperated, “What do you mean? Do you have to wait until everyone’s condemning you, until you can’t work as a doctor anymore? Xiao Xu, ignore her, you go.”

You Ruxu turned her back to Zhou Tianzui and heard Yu Qiao yell, “Zhou Tianzui!”

She turned around and saw Zhou Tianzui sitting up, clutching her wound, the white sheet stained crimson.

The wound had reopened.

You Ruxu froze.

Yu Qiao frantically went to find a doctor. Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t go.”

You Ruxu’s eyes instantly reddened, “Are you crazy? Lie down!” She wheeled herself over to Zhou Tianzui’s bed and placed a hand on her shoulder. Zhou Tianzui grabbed her wrist tightly, “Deal with the hospital issue first, and then what? Deal with my father’s case? How do you plan on doing that?”

Her words were like nails, piercing You Ruxu’s heart.

You Ruxu said, “We’ll find a way.”

“What way?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Tell me, what way?”

Her face was pale. You Ruxu said, “We’ll discuss it later, I promise, I’ll just talk to the hospital about the resignation.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Really?”

A hint of vulnerability in her voice.

You Ruxu nodded, “Really.”

Zhou Tianzui seemed to relax slightly.

She released You Ruxu’s hand and frowned.

You Ruxu asked, “What’s wrong?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “My wound hurts.”

“You!” You Ruxu wanted to yell at her, but she couldn’t bring herself to. Yu Qiao entered the ward with a doctor. You Ruxu left and went to find Zhou Tianzui’s director, who looked troubled, “The higher-ups want to handle this discreetly, wait for things to die down…”

He was being euphemistic. The incident had become a big deal, and the higher-ups were still observing the situation. Just before You Ruxu entered, the director had been arguing with them. Zhou Tianzui’s father’s case, even if there was wrongdoing, it was her father’s wrongdoing, how could it be held against her?

But the higher-ups argued that, regarding Zhou Tianzui and the deputy director, if they made a statement now, it might be seen as protecting Zhou Tianzui, so it was best to wait.

“We can’t wait.” You Ruxu said, “This is clearly a targeted attack, if we don’t respond, it will only escalate.”

It was a blatant diversion tactic.

Someone wanted to shift public attention. The Fengyuan case, which had been a hot topic, suddenly died down, replaced by Zhou Tianzui’s story, which wouldn’t have gained so much traction without someone pushing it, someone from Fengyuan.

The director looked at You Ruxu, seeing her clear and logical reasoning, “Then what should we do?”

“Sue.” You Ruxu said, “Sue in the hospital’s name.”

The director paused.

Suing in the hospital’s name meant they unequivocally supported Zhou Tianzui, “But then people will think the hospital is covering up for her.”

“What cover-up?” You Ruxu, sitting in her wheelchair, looked at the director and said firmly, “A cover-up is for concealing a crime, did Zhou Tianzui commit a crime? Was there anything inappropriate between her and the deputy director?”

Her series of questions silenced the director.

The director was on Zhou Tianzui’s side, she wouldn’t have argued with the higher-ups otherwise, but some decisions weren’t hers to make, Before she could respond.

There was a knock on the door.

The director said, “Come in.”

It was Fu Shushu.

Followed by He Wei, Lin Luo, Zhao Mingqi, and several other doctors, standing behind You Ruxu. The director asked, “What is it?”

Fu Shushu said, “We want to help Dr. Zhou.”

The director was stunned.

Fu Shushu said, “I can’t speak for other matters, but there was definitely nothing going on between Zhou Tianzui and the deputy director.”

If there was, why would she compete with her for the position?

The director, already troubled by this matter, frowned, “Don’t make a fuss…”

“This is not a fuss.” You Ruxu said, “This is about the hospital’s reputation, about a doctor’s reputation, if the hospital doesn’t make a statement, if you continue to remain silent, do you want to demoralize all the doctors here?”

He Wei and Lin Luo stepped forward, standing beside You Ruxu, their expressions indignant, as if they wouldn’t back down unless the director took action, a youthful fearlessness in their eyes. The director, holding her phone, looked at them, usually the different departments were constantly at odds, but this was the first time she felt such unity within their department.

Even Fu Shushu was speaking up for Zhou Tianzui.

The director said, “I’ll apply for a lawsuit.”

“It’s not an application, it’s a necessity.” You Ruxu said, “Please inform the higher-ups, if the hospital continues to ignore this, the Jindu TV news team will continue reporting on how Dr. Zhou was injured saving a child, and the hospital’s lack of response.”

The director looked at You Ruxu.

You Ruxu wasn’t wearing makeup, dressed in a hospital gown, her hair loose, her features delicate and beautiful, an air of composure about her, her tone calm and steady, not a single harsh word, yet her words carried weight.

The director nodded, “Okay.”

You Ruxu said calmly, “Thank you.”

The director said, “You’re welcome, I also hope this incident with her father doesn’t affect Dr. Zhou.”

You Ruxu paused for two seconds: “It won’t.”

She said, “Her father was a good reporter.”

The office was quiet. You Ruxu wheeled herself out. In the corridor, she looked out the window, the sun warm and gentle, the flowers blooming beautifully. Behind her, He Wei softly called out, “Teacher You.”

You Ruxu turned around.

She looked at Fu Shushu and the others, “Thank you, for what you did just now.”

Fu Shushu said, “You’re welcome, if Dr. Zhou needs anything, just let us know.”

You Ruxu nodded.

He Wei asked, “Teacher You, where are you going? Should I take you?”

You Ruxu said, “No, thank you, I need to make a few calls.”

He Wei said, “Okay, we won’t disturb you then.”

You Ruxu smiled at them, her face pale, but her expression firm, an undeniable charisma. She sat by the window and first called Captain Zhou for a consultation, then contacted Chen Xiang, who agreed after hearing what she said, “I’ll talk to the boss.”

You Ruxu said, “Thank you.”

“No problem!” Chen Xiang said, “Teacher You, I’m happy to help Dr. Zhou.”

You Ruxu wanted to laugh.

Zhou Tianzui always said she had no friends, she wanted her to know how wrong she was.

Wu Xiulian arrived at the hospital just as You Ruxu finished her calls. The sunset painted the sky in warm hues, but as the sun dipped below the horizon, the gentle breeze turned cold. You Ruxu, wheeling herself towards Zhou Tianzui’s ward, saw Wu Xiulian.

Wu Xiulian said, “I didn’t see you in your ward, so I figured you would be here.”

You Ruxu said, “Yes, I went out for a bit.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I heard the hospital is suing?”

You Ruxu nodded.

Wu Xiulian continued, “I’ve already contacted the information management department, they’ll fully cooperate.”

You Ruxu’s heart was warmed by all the kindness, a stark contrast to the pain and anxiety earlier. A strength surged within her. She didn’t speak, just smiled at Wu Xiulian.

Wu Xiulian stepped forward and hugged her.

Yu Qiao opened the door and saw them, “Xiao Xu’s back.”

You Ruxu had been out all afternoon, and Yu Qiao had been worried. Zhou Tianzui’s wound had reopened and needed to be restitched, she had been drowsy all afternoon, no one to talk to, she couldn’t help but look at her phone.

The insults and accusations online were driving her to the edge.

The hospital had filed the lawsuit.

Against those who spread the rumors about Zhou Tianzui and the deputy director, even identifying the so-called “hospital insider” as the owner of a supermarket near the hospital. He immediately apologized online after being sued, claiming it was just hearsay, even insisting that everyone at the First Affiliated Hospital knew about it.

[Excuse me, I’m a doctor at the First Affiliated Hospital, and I’ve never heard of this.]

[I’m a nurse in the obstetrics department, this is the first time I’m hearing this rumor.]

[I’m an intern, Dr. Zhou is an excellent doctor, very dedicated to her work.]

Public opinion started to shift, no longer one-sided, but they then turned their attention to Zhou Tianzui’s father, claiming the hospital was just protecting her, that those doctors were forced to make those statements, instructed by the hospital.

But at least it wasn’t just insults like this afternoon.

You Ruxu was wheeled into the ward. Wu Xiulian brought dinner, two portions, “You two eat first, I’ll go get two more from the cafeteria.”

Yu Qiao said, “I’ll go.”

Wu Xiulian looked at her.

Yu Qiao said, “You stay here.”

Her tone polite, a subtle acceptance.

She seemed to have come to terms with their relationship. Wu Xiulian sighed, then seeing Yu Qiao leave, noticing how much she had aged after these incidents, her guilt intensified. She looked at You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui and said, “You two eat first, Xu Xu, you sit there, I’ll feed Dr. Zhou.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m fine.”

“You’re fine, but you can’t eat by yourself.” Wu Xiulian said, “It’s just porridge, you can’t have anything too greasy right now.”

Zhou Tianzui gave a small “mm-hmm.”

The ward was quiet. You Ruxu opened her lunchbox and said, “The evening news will report on Fengyuan, it should divert some of the attention.”

Zhou Tianzui ate her porridge, her expression unreadable, and heard You Ruxu continue, “After the hospital lawsuit, I’ll ask Chen Xiang to do an anonymous interview.”

Zhou Tianzui looked up.

You Ruxu turned to her, “About your father, there’s a way.”

She said, “We can do an anonymous interview, to clear his name.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Anonymous.” She looked down, “Who would believe an anonymous interview without any evidence?”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll…”

“It’s not that there’s no evidence.” Wu Xiulian, looking down at her bowl of porridge, her words silencing the room, a long silence following, then she repeated, “It’s not that there’s no evidence.”

You Ruxu looked at her, “Aunt?”

Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu, I’m sorry, I’m sorry to you, and I’m sorry to Dr. Zhou.” She looked up at You Ruxu, her voice low, “I have the notebook.”

Chapter 106: I Beg You

“Are you crazy?” Yu Qiao stared at Zhou Tianzui, dumbfounded, “Resign? Why? The hospital is offering compensation for your injury, if you resign, you’ll get nothing.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m tired.”

“If you’re tired, take some time off, a week, two weeks…” Yu Qiao’s words were interrupted by Zhou Tianzui, who repeated, “Mom, I’m tired.”

She truly was, exhausted.

Yu Qiao was speechless, just looking at her.

Their gazes locked. There was a knock on the door. Zhou Tianzui said, “Come in.”

It was the director, alone, no other colleagues. Zhou Tianzui, seeing him, her expression flickering, said to Yu Qiao, “Mom, go pour the director a glass of water.”

Yu Qiao, sensing that the director also had something to say, nodded, “I’ll go get some water.”

After she left, the director said, “What are you doing? Resigning?”

Zhou Tianzui had made up her mind before Yu Qiao even went to wash the fruit and had already messaged the director, knowing he wouldn’t agree, and as expected, he continued, “Is it because of what’s happening online? That’s all nonsense! We know what kind of person you are, there’s no need to resign because of some online rumors, the hospital even wants to commend you, what are you doing resigning now?”

He went on and on, “Don’t even think about resigning!”

Zhou Tianzui lay in bed, listening quietly, her demeanor calm, “Director, do you know what it means to be ‘drowned by public opinion’?”

The director was speechless, looking at her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ve known since I was young, I can handle it, but my mother can’t.”

The director sat on the edge of her bed, “Actually, we know a little about your situation…”

When Zhou Tianzui first joined the hospital, some colleagues were jealous, questioning her qualifications, her being assigned to the First Affiliated Hospital at such a young age, suggesting she got in through connections. Then, somehow, they found out she was raised by a single mother, that her father was a reporter, and about that “scandal.” Just as she was about to spread the rumors, the deputy director found out, investigated, and fired her.

After that, there were some rumors, people saying the deputy director fired her to protect Zhou Tianzui, but the reason for her dismissal was clear to everyone, so those rumors didn’t gain much traction.

Later, Zhou Tianzui never had any contact with the deputy director, so the gossip naturally died down, and even fewer people knew about it now.

The director said, “We all believe in you, don’t overthink it, your father is your father, you are…”

“My father wasn’t a rapist.” Zhou Tianzui said, “He was investigating a case when the accident happened.”

The director looked at Zhou Tianzui, paused, and said, “Okay, don’t think about it anymore, it’s not a big deal, no need to resign, just focus on recovering.”

Zhou Tianzui watched the director leave, her hand on her head, wanting to laugh, but she couldn’t.

After the director left, Yu Qiao entered. She asked, “Xiao Tian, is something bothering you?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “No, nothing.”

Yu Qiao frowned: “Is it about you and You Ruxu…?”

“No.” Zhou Tianzui said, “The director was just asking about work.”

Yu Qiao was displeased, “Still thinking about work at a time like this?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “That’s why I’m tired, I want to resign.”

Yu Qiao didn’t agree.

When Wu Xiulian wheeled You Ruxu in, they were still arguing. Yu Qiao, seeing You Ruxu, said, “I’m going out to buy some things.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Sister, should I go with you?”

Yu Qiao said, “No need.”

She grabbed her bag and left, her face grim, her footsteps heavy, her displeasure clear. Wu Xiulian, after she left, said, “Your mother knows?”

Zhou Tianzui looked at You Ruxu.

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Not yet.”

“I’ve already asked someone to suppress the news online, trying to minimize the impact on your mother.” Wu Xiulian said, “Then you two talk, I’ll go home and prepare dinner.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at You Ruxu, “Why are you sitting so far away?”

You Ruxu wheeled herself closer to the bed, silent, her lips pressed together.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Cat got your tongue?”

You Ruxu said, “You saw the news online?”

“I did.” Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s all old news, I don’t care.”

The ward was quiet.

You Ruxu’s voice was low, “I care.”

Zhou Tianzui turned to her. You Ruxu looked up, their eyes meeting, “Zhou Tianzui, am I a coward?”

“You…”

“I want to be with you, but I didn’t dare tell your mother, I’m selfish and cowardly, I’m a reporter, yet I let someone suffer injustice for so many years because of me.” You Ruxu’s voice was soft, almost a whisper, like a self-condemnation, her tone making Zhou Tianzui’s heart ache, “I made you do this.”

“No, you didn’t.” You Ruxu said firmly. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Then what do you want to do?”

You Ruxu paused.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m planning to resign.”

You Ruxu’s eyes widened in surprise.

Zhou Tianzui said, “After resigning, I want to take my mom on a trip, with you. She agreed.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui continued, “It took a lot for her to agree. I don’t want her to suffer anymore because of my father, I just want to put this behind us, okay?”

You Ruxu was about to speak.

When Zhou Tianzui reached out and linked her pinky finger with You Ruxu’s. You Ruxu looked down, her hand held by Zhou Tianzui’s, their fingers interlaced. She asked, “Don’t you want to clear your father’s name?”

“I did, before.” Zhou Tianzui said, “I used to dream of it, of the truth being revealed, of those who wronged us apologizing. I don’t dare to dream anymore.”

Facing You Ruxu.

She was always straightforward, “I know what will happen, I don’t dare to hope.”

“You always say you’re selfish and cowardly.” Zhou Tianzui said, “But aren’t I the same?”

She was even more so than You Ruxu.

She was unfilial.

She could clear her father’s name, but for the sake of her love, she was choosing to give up.

Zhou Tianzui felt ashamed of herself.

Her eyes reddened slightly, looking at You Ruxu, “Listen to me this time…”

“Xiao Tian!” The door burst open, and a figure rushed in, her steps unsteady. She quickly reached Zhou Tianzui’s bedside, “They’re talking about your father online!”

Yu Qiao’s face was pale, her body trembling, she didn’t know what she had heard.

Zhou Tianzui froze.

Yu Qiao said, “So you want to resign because of your father?”

“Is the hospital firing you?” Yu Qiao said, “Is that it?! Is it?!”

Zhou Tianzui said, “No, it’s not.”

“Then what is it?!” Yu Qiao’s voice rose, her emotions uncontrolled. Every mention of Zhou Qiming was like a trigger, her composure shattering instantly. Zhou Tianzui wanted to comfort her like she always did, but she couldn’t, she couldn’t get up, she tried to move, but the pain from her wound was too much, her forehead covered in sweat.

“Mom, please calm down.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Please don’t get so worked up.”

“I’m not worked up!” Yu Qiao said, “Then why do you want to resign?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m tired of working.”

“You’ve always worked hard, you never complained before, why suddenly now?” Yu Qiao said, “Did your director say something? Is it because of your father, are they forcing you to resign?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “No, it’s my decision.”

Yu Qiao said, “I don’t agree!”

Zhou Tianzui was silent.

The ward was suddenly quiet.

Yu Qiao had overheard it at the bus stop. At first, they were talking about Zhou Tianzui, praising her bravery, then they mentioned Zhou Qiming. She had looked at the two young girls, chatting and laughing, dismissing it as gossip, but she couldn’t help but ask, her voice tight with suppressed emotion, “Where did you hear this, girls?”

“Weibo…” The girl looked at her, smiling, “Auntie, do you have the app on your phone?”

She didn’t, she hadn’t even heard of it before, but she asked them to download it for her. The comments and messages that popped up were like knives, twisting in her heart, her body turning cold, her feet frozen, unable to move.

Yu Qiao couldn’t bear it any longer and rushed back to the hospital to find Zhou Tianzui.

Her voice choked with tears, “I don’t agree to you resigning! Do you hear me? I’ll handle your father’s case, you’re not resigning!”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, you don’t have to handle anything, it’ll all blow over in a few days, no one will care anymore.”

It was wishful thinking, but the online backlash was far worse than she imagined, as if an invisible hand was fueling the flames. They not only dug up Zhou Qiming’s past, but also the incident when Zhou Tianzui first joined the hospital, someone being fired because of her.

“It’s from someone at the hospital, it really happened.”

“So she really was the deputy director’s mistress?”

“No wonder the hospital hasn’t made a statement, she has connections!”

“Her father a rapist, the daughter a mistress, a perfect match!”

“The TV station also covered up for her father back then, this family must have powerful connections!”

The sarcasm was even more hurtful than direct insults. Yu Qiao’s body trembled with rage, her face grim, her eyes swollen. She had been so worried last night, and now, this, another wave of attacks.

She abruptly stood up. Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, what are you doing?”

Yu Qiao said, “I’m going to talk to your director!”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t.”

Yu Qiao was about to leave when Zhou Tianzui said to You Ruxu, “Stop her.”

Reminded of You Ruxu’s presence, and her profession, Yu Qiao stopped, turning to You Ruxu, “X-Xiao Xu, Zhou Tianzui is with you, she’s not the deputy director’s mistress, you know that, right?”

You Ruxu nodded: “I know, Auntie.”

“Yes, you know.” Yu Qiao said, “You know everything, you also know her father wasn’t a rapist, he didn’t do those things, your station told us back then, that he was investigating the case.”

You Ruxu’s throat was dry and constricted, “I know.”

Yu Qiao suddenly grabbed her hand, “Then can you report on it?”

You Ruxu’s hand was held tightly.

Yu Qiao said, “I know you’re very capable, can you help Xiao Tian?”

You Ruxu and Yu Qiao’s eyes met.

Yu Qiao stood there, her hands gripping You Ruxu’s tightly, as if clinging to a lifeline, her usual composure gone, a vulnerable desperation in her voice, “I beg you, please.”

Chapter 105: Tacit Approval

You Ruxu’s hand tightened around the phone, her heart skipping a beat hearing that name from someone else. She was silent for two seconds. Chen Xiang, on the other end, called out, “Teacher You?”

She came back to her senses: “What’s wrong?”

“We received a complaint, saying our report was inaccurate. The boss just had a huge argument with the station director. Dr. Zhou’s father, was his name Zhou Qiming?” Chen Xiang said, “They also said, Zhou Qiming…”

She couldn’t bring herself to repeat the rest.

You Ruxu said, “Does anyone else know about this?”

“Many people at the station know now.” Chen Xiang said, “Zhou Qiming used to work at our station too.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

She hung up and went online, seeing a few malicious comments appearing beneath the posts praising Zhou Tianzui.

[Zhou Tianzui? The one whose father was a rapist?]

[????? What rapist?]

[Is this real?!]

[Search for ‘Reporter Zhou Qiming,’ that’s her father.]

The news fermented overnight, Zhou Tianzui now pushed into the spotlight, from being praised for her bravery to having her past exposed, even “revelations” from former elementary and high school classmates, adding a layer of “credibility” to the story.

You Ruxu’s hands turned cold.

Zhou Tianzui, seeing her engrossed in her phone, chuckled, “Your phone’s that interesting?”

Looking closely.

You Ruxu’s face was pale.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What’s wrong?”

You Ruxu said, “Nothing.”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t believe her, reaching for the phone. You Ruxu instinctively tried to grab it, forgetting about her injured leg, her body lurching forward, almost falling. Zhou Tianzui tried to help her up, but her own wound prevented her from moving quickly, and she fell back onto the bed. You Ruxu awkwardly knelt on one knee by the bed. Yu Qiao, entering the ward just then, froze, seeing the scene.

She frowned, “What’s going on here?”

She reached out to help You Ruxu up. You Ruxu flinched at her touch, as if needles were piercing her skin, a sharp, invisible pain.

Her hand trembled.

The phone slipped from her grasp and fell to the floor.

Yu Qiao bent down to pick it up. You Ruxu’s heart skipped a beat watching her. The phone screen went dark. Yu Qiao picked up the phone and handed it to You Ruxu, who said, “Thank you, Auntie.”

Yu Qiao didn’t reply.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, are you tired? Sit down and rest for a bit.”

Yu Qiao said, “You should rest, I’ll call you when your IV drip is finished.”

Zhou Tianzui couldn’t sleep. She looked at You Ruxu, as if wanting to say something. Yu Qiao, seeing this, scoffed and sat on the other bed. The atmosphere in the ward was tense. Zhou Tianzui reached for her phone. Yu Qiao said, “Why are you looking at your phone while lying in bed? Do you want to go blind?”

She took the phone and placed it on the bedside table.

You Ruxu said, “Auntie, I’ll be going then.”

Yu Qiao said, “I’ll walk you out.”

You Ruxu said, “I’m fine, you stay with her.”

Yu Qiao didn’t insist. You Ruxu wheeled herself out of the ward. The cold air in the corridor made her shiver, her hands trembling as she wheeled herself towards the elevator, her grip weakening. Waiting for the elevator, she checked her phone again, several news stories about Zhou Qiming, Zhou Tianzui’s father, on the homepage.

She pressed the screen and called Wu Xiulian.

Wu Xiulian was preparing dinner. Hearing her phone ring, she glanced at the screen and answered cheerfully, “Xu Xu? What’s wrong? Is something the matter?”

You Ruxu’s voice was low, “Aunt, can you come to the hospital?”

Wu Xiulian’s heart sank. She put down what she was doing and said, “Okay.”

After hanging up, she saw several new messages on her phone. Unlocking the screen, she saw the messages, her expression darkening.

In just two hours, news about Zhou Qiming had spread everywhere. Although they tried to suppress it, the information was still spreading rapidly, like bamboo shoots after the rain, any crack or opening allowing it to proliferate.

Wu Xiulian sat on the edge of You Ruxu’s bed, “Xu Xu, I know what you’re thinking, but think about it, Dr. Zhou’s mother just started to accept your relationship, if you tell her now, won’t it hurt her even more?”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Wu Xiulian continued, “This whole thing started because Dr. Zhou did a good deed and was then targeted by someone manipulating public opinion. People will understand eventually.”

She asked You Ruxu, “Does Dr. Zhou know about this?”

You Ruxu opened her mouth, then closed it without speaking.

She said, “Not yet.”

At least, not before she left.

The new ward wasn’t as lively as before, but there were still flowers and fruit baskets. Nurses would often knock on the door with a smile, “Dr. Zhou, more flowers for you.”

It had been two hours since the last knock.

Although Zhou Tianzui didn’t care about those things, didn’t think it was necessary to send her flowers and fruit, the nurses’ sudden silence made her suspicious. Yu Qiao didn’t allow her to look at her phone, telling her to rest, even confiscating her phone when she tried to reach for it. Thinking of You Ruxu’s pale face before she left, Zhou Tianzui felt increasingly uneasy.

She said, “Mom, I’m thirsty.”

Yu Qiao poured her a glass of warm water.

Zhou Tianzui paused, “I want some fruit.”

Yu Qiao asked, “Which one?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “An apple.”

Yu Qiao took an apple and was about to peel it when Zhou Tianzui said, “I want to eat it with the skin on.”

Yu Qiao glared at her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Just wash it, it’s fine.”

Yu Qiao went to the bathroom.

Hearing the running water, Zhou Tianzui reached for the drawer, pulled it open, took out her phone, glancing towards the bathroom, suddenly feeling like a child sneaking a peek at her phone, afraid of being caught.

It was ridiculous.

Zhou Tianzui smiled slightly, holding her phone, not even turning it on, but the news notifications displayed on the lock screen made her frown. She struggled to sit up, a sharp pain shooting through her wound, making her drop the phone onto the pillow.

Yu Qiao, returning from the bathroom, noticed the redness around Zhou Tianzui’s eyes.

She asked, “What’s wrong with your eyes?”

Zhou Tianzui touched her eyes, “They hurt a little, are they red?”

“Hurt?” Yu Qiao said, “Anything else? Should we call the doctor?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, I am a doctor.”

Yu Qiao said, “You can’t cure everything.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s nothing, sit down.”

Yu Qiao sat on the chair beside the bed. Zhou Tianzui patted the edge of the bed, “Sit here.”

Her gaze unwavering.

Yu Qiao, uncomfortable under her scrutiny, sat on the edge of the bed and handed her the apple, “If you’re about to talk about you and You Ruxu again, don’t bother.”

“Okay, then I won’t.” Zhou Tianzui was surprisingly obedient. Yu Qiao looked at her, surprised. Ever since her confession, she had been trying to convince Yu Qiao, her every word implying she couldn’t live without You Ruxu, and now she was suddenly so compliant.

Yu Qiao couldn’t help but ask, “What did you want to talk about?”

“Mom, do you remember why I wanted to be a doctor?” Zhou Tianzui asked. Yu Qiao had never asked her before. Zhou Tianzui had always been driven, her goal clear since she was young, her determination unwavering, she had said she wanted to be a doctor, countless times.

Yu Qiao said, “Because of your father?”

Zhou Tianzui shook her head, “I remember after we moved, you were always sick, you would always try to endure it, only going to the hospital when you couldn’t anymore. Back then, I thought, if only I were a doctor, I would know immediately if you were unwell.”

Yu Qiao’s eyes teared up.

She looked at Zhou Tianzui.

Still stubbornly holding onto her last line of defense: “Don’t think I’ll agree to you and You Ruxu just because you said that.”

But her resolve was weakening, her resistance crumbling, about to collapse without even a push. Zhou Tianzui said, “What sweet words did I even say? Don’t you always say I’m talking nonsense?”

Yu Qiao was speechless.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, I’m tired, after all these years, I know you’re also tired, let’s forget about the past, let’s be happy, okay?”

Yu Qiao looked down at Zhou Tianzui’s hand holding hers and didn’t speak.

Zhou Tianzui continued, “After I recover, I want to, take you on a trip, with her.”

Yu Qiao paused slightly, “A trip?”

“Yes, I haven’t taken you anywhere all these years. I want to take you on a trip after I recover. I heard seafood is cheap in the south, don’t you like seafood? We can go together, she and I can drive, and you can just enjoy the scenery.”

Yu Qiao pictured the scene Zhou Tianzui described, it didn’t seem so bad.

She didn’t speak.

Several friends had invited her on trips these past few years, but she had always been worried about Zhou Tianzui, and she was old now, what was the point of traveling, wasting money, she wanted to save the money for Zhou Tianzui’s wedding.

Now it seemed, there wouldn’t be a wedding.

She was silent.

Zhou Tianzui pressed on, “We can even go abroad.”

Yu Qiao looked down, muttering, “Abroad?”

“Yes.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Travel abroad, broaden our horizons.”

“I don’t want to go abroad, I don’t know anyone there.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It doesn’t matter if we don’t know anyone, we’ll handle the communication, you can just eat, sleep, and play, okay, Mom?”

Yu Qiao, under her gaze.

Remembered hearing someone say before coming to the hospital, “A doctor was murdered.”

“Stabbed multiple times.”

“Last name Zhou, from the obstetrics department.”

She had panicked, her hands and feet numb, her mind blank, unable to even stand, her only thought, what if it was Zhou Tianzui.

She couldn’t bear the thought, every second was agony.

She had rushed to the hospital, heard that Zhou Tianzui was in surgery, then that she was okay, the weight finally lifting from her heart. Now, listening to her casual chatter, she felt a profound sense of relief.

Relieved that Zhou Tianzui was alive.

Relieved that she was okay.

Thank God.

Her stubborn resistance crumbled in the face of near-death. So, seeing You Ruxu again, it wasn’t as difficult to accept as before. Yu Qiao’s voice softened, “Xiao Tian, you know what I’m most afraid of, I don’t want you to go through that again.”

“You don’t have to worry, Mom.” Zhou Tianzui said, “I told her, if you don’t agree, we won’t go public.”

Yu Qiao looked at her, “You Ruxu, she agreed to this?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “She did.”

Yu Qiao nodded and heard Zhou Tianzui continue, “Then I’ll book the tickets after I recover, we’ll go on a trip abroad, okay?”

Yu Qiao wanted to laugh, “Easy for you to say, what about your work?”

Zhou Tianzui said casually, “I’m planning to resign.”

Chapter 104: Changes

Wu Xiulian stood outside and said, “Sister, let me help you carry that.”

She took the thermos from Yu Qiao’s hand. Yu Qiao looked down and asked, “You just agree to her being with someone like that?”

Wu Xiulian looked up and asked, “Like what? Dating Dr. Zhou?”

Hearing this, Yu Qiao frowned, feeling a surge of discomfort. Wu Xiulian continued, “Actually, my sister and brother-in-law weren’t happy about it either at first, but Dr. Zhou came to Yuhai a while ago, visited our home, she convinced my sister.”

Yu Qiao looked at her: “Convinced her how?”

“She said that suitability is the most important thing in a relationship.” Wu Xiulian said, “You keep setting all these conditions for her, wanting her to find someone rich, someone who will treat her well, someone who will ensure she never suffers again, but will that make her happy? Will that bring her happiness? Then shouldn’t everyone just find someone better off than themselves?”

Yu Qiao said, “Their circumstances aren’t unsuitable.”

“It’s the same principle.” Wu Xiulian said, “Sexual orientation is also a form of suitability.”

“I don’t understand those principles.” Yu Qiao said, “I just want Xiao Tian to be happy, she’s suffered enough with me, I don’t want her to go through the same thing again.”

Wu Xiulian said, “She’s happy with Xu Xu, maybe this is the ‘suitability’ she’s looking for.”

Yu Qiao didn’t reply. Wu Xiulian entered the ward, carrying the thermos. Zhou Tianzui called out, “Aunt.”

She was lying in bed, unable to sit up due to the surgery, although the knife hadn’t penetrated deeply, she still needed to rest. Wu Xiulian said, “Don’t move, look at the two of you, Xu Xu, you might as well just move your bed into Dr. Zhou’s room.”

You Ruxu said, “No need.”

Zhou Tianzui chuckled, “It’s not a bad idea.”

What “not a bad idea,” they weren’t even on the same floor. You Ruxu wanted to laugh, but she couldn’t, her heart still pounding with the lingering fear from last night, gripping her chest, a wave of nausea.

Wu Xiulian said, “Then I’ll go make lunch, you two can eat here.”

You Ruxu nodded.

After Wu Xiulian left, Yu Qiao entered the ward. The atmosphere instantly became tense. Zhou Tianzui called out, “Mom.”

Yu Qiao walked over to her bedside.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Sorry for making you worry.”

“If you don’t want me to worry, then don’t do such things again.” Yu Qiao’s voice was filled with concern despite her words, “Does your wound still hurt?”

Zhou Tianzui shook her head: “It’s not deep.”

“Not deep? I saw the video.” Yu Qiao said, “You’re so reckless, why didn’t you call the police first?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “There wasn’t time.”

She looked at You Ruxu.

Remembering that night.

She fell silent.

Yu Qiao, not noticing her silence, continued, “Thankfully, it wasn’t deep, you were just on duty, how could such a thing happen…”

Just then, there was a commotion at the door. Zhou Tianzui looked up and saw Zhao Mingqi, He Wei, Lin Luo, and the director walk in. Lin Luo’s eyes were red, “Dr. Zhou, are you okay?”

He Wei’s face was also pale. Although she usually found Zhou Tianzui intimidating, she had learned a lot from her. During her previous internships, because of her background, no one dared to criticize her, which made her arrogant and spoiled. Her mother even said she was a completely different person after being mentored by Zhou Tianzui for a few months. She both loved and feared Zhou Tianzui.

Zhao Mingqi was the most remorseful.

He said, “It’s all my fault, if I hadn’t switched shifts with you last night, this wouldn’t have happened.”

“Then that baby would have been lost.” Zhou Tianzui smiled faintly, “It’s already happened, there’s no point blaming yourself, I won’t be able to work for the next few days, I’ll have to trouble you all.”

The director also said, “Just focus on recovering, don’t worry about anything else.”

“The city officials came this morning, they’re applying for a reward for you, and the TV station will be sending people over this afternoon, see if you have the energy for an interview, I can reschedule it if you’re too tired.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m fine, this afternoon is fine.”

The director nodded.

Fu Shushu, looking at her, awkwardly placed a basket of fruit on the bedside table, “A small token of concern from everyone.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m more popular than I thought.”

Anyone else saying that would be fine, but coming from her, everyone wanted to laugh. He Wei’s face was red, a mixture of tears and laughter. Zhou Tianzui called out, “He Wei.”

He Wei, startled, looked at her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Work with Dr. Fu for now.”

He Wei agreed.

They asked about You Ruxu’s condition. Her injuries were more serious than Zhou Tianzui’s, but she had rested for a few days and was recovering well, looking much better now.

“Call me if you need anything.” The director said to Zhou Tianzui, “We’ll be going now.”

Zhou Tianzui nodded.

They had just left when another group arrived.

They were patients from the maternity ward, several mothers holding their babies. The patient from bed sixty-two was still resting, her mother holding the newborn baby, saying, “This is Dr. Zhou, our lifesaver!”

“Dr. Zhou, thank you so much for last night.”

“Dr. Zhou, we bought you some fruit, please take care of yourself.”

“Dr. Zhou, we haven’t named our baby yet, could you please give us some suggestions?”

Zhou Tianzui was speechless.

Finally, the nurses intervened, saying she had just woken up and shouldn’t have too many visitors. They reluctantly left, but soon after, flowers and fruit baskets arrived, sent by anonymous well-wishers, all for Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Return them.”

The nurse looked troubled, “They’ve already been signed for, we can’t return them.”

You Ruxu, sitting by her bedside, smiled faintly, hearing this. Zhou Tianzui turned to her, “What’s so funny?”

“We’ll send them to your ward later.”

You Ruxu said, “They’re for you.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I can’t possibly eat all of this.”

Having become a hero overnight, Zhou Tianzui was showered with gifts and attention. When Wu Xiulian arrived with lunch, she was stunned, looking at the flowers and fruit baskets filling the room, “What’s all this?”

You Ruxu smiled.

Yu Qiao, seeing her there, didn’t object or welcome her, just maintained a neutral expression, watching their interaction, then, unable to bear it any longer, excused herself, saying she was going home to pack some things. So, only the three of them had lunch together.

Wu Xiulian said, “I heard people talking about Dr. Zhou on my way here, this incident has become quite a big deal.”

It was mainly because it happened late at night, and the news spread quickly. By the time the authorities tried to contain it, it was too late. The First Affiliated Hospital was well-known, and Zhou Tianzui wasn’t a newcomer, many people knew her, everyone posting about it on their social media, the story quickly trending.

The missing baby case from the maternity hospital was still under investigation, with little information released. People were more focused on the Fengyuan case, but now, this incident had overshadowed even that.

You Ruxu said, “Fengyuan is fanning the flames.”

Wu Xiulian looked at her, “Fengyuan?”

You Ruxu said, “They’re hoping for a big news story to distract everyone, the bigger the better, to bury their negative press.”

So, Zhou Tianzui’s incident, what should have been a minor event, had become a major distraction. Wu Xiulian said, “That makes sense.”

You Ruxu said, “We should contact the city officials, ask them to suppress the news.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her and nodded, “I’ll talk to the director.”

You Ruxu nodded and continued eating.

After lunch, people from the TV station arrived. Chen Xiang, with a new reporter, was almost in tears seeing You Ruxu, “Teacher You!”

You Ruxu said, “You’re here.”

“The station has been calling for you all morning.” Chen Xiang said, “You have no idea how much I wanted to see you!” Noticing Zhou Tianzui’s gaze, she quickly added, “And Dr. Zhou!”

“Dr. Zhou, you’re amazing!” She gave a thumbs-up. “We’re so grateful to you, you’re a hero!”

Zhou Tianzui, looking at Chen Xiang’s hand on You Ruxu’s shoulder, asked, “Want some fruit?”

Chen Xiang quickly waved her hand, “No, thank you, you’re welcome.”

You Ruxu moved slightly to make space for the interview. Chen Xiang, beside her, whispered, “Teacher You, is your leg better now? When can you be discharged?”

You Ruxu said, “Soon, but I can’t walk yet.”

“Oh…” Chen Xiang sounded disappointed. “Then you won’t be back at the station before the New Year.”

You Ruxu glanced at Zhou Tianzui, hearing this.

Zhou Tianzui’s gaze met hers.

You Ruxu smiled.

Zhou Tianzui paused for a moment, then continued with the interview. Chen Xiang sat beside You Ruxu, “Fengyuan is also under investigation, the boss is super busy, we have two new team members, they wanted to visit you, but they’re too busy, the boss said they’ll come when you’re discharged.”

You Ruxu said, “No need to worry about me.”

“How can we not?” Chen Xiang said, “You have no idea how much you contributed to the Fengyuan story!” She gave a thumbs-up, “Just like our Dr. Zhou, you’re both heroes!”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

The interview was short, considerate of Zhou Tianzui’s condition. The questions were brief. After the TV station interview, there were supposed to be other media outlets, but Zhou Tianzui declined them all and even requested a different ward.

Suddenly, it was quiet again. Yu Qiao came to the hospital in the afternoon, carrying two bags, accompanied by several women who had come to visit Zhou Tianzui. They were chatting as they walked, “Our Xiao Tian is a celebrity now!”

Yu Qiao said, “What celebrity, as long as she’s okay, that’s all that matters.”

“That’s true.” The woman in red beside her said, “I heard Xiao Tian’s still single, I have a relative…”

You Ruxu was waiting for Yu Qiao in the lobby, wanting to take her to the new ward, figuring she wouldn’t know where it was. Seeing Yu Qiao, she wheeled herself over and heard her say, “Who said she’s single? Our Xiao Tian has a partner.”

The other women exclaimed, “She has a partner?”

“Since when?”

Yu Qiao walked towards them, and there, right in front of her, was You Ruxu.

Their eyes met.

You Ruxu said, “Auntie, I’m here to take you to your daughter.”

“This is that reporter, isn’t she?” One of the women said, “I’ve seen her on TV, Xiao Tian has such impressive friends!”

Yu Qiao’s expression softened, “Let’s go inside.”

She pushed You Ruxu’s wheelchair.

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

Inside the ward, Zhou Tianzui blinked, surprised. She had changed wards for some peace and quiet, never expecting these aunties to come as well. The ward became lively again. Yu Qiao served them fruit, and the aunties, after a few more words of concern for Zhou Tianzui, tactfully excused themselves. Yu Qiao saw them to the elevator, You Ruxu watching them leave, a smile playing on her lips.

Zhou Tianzui said, “What are you smiling about?”

You Ruxu started to say, “Auntie…” But her phone rang. She took it out, it was Chen Xiang, “I need to take this call.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

You Ruxu smiled faintly, her voice gentle, “Chen Xiang?”

Chen Xiang said, “Teacher You, can I ask you something?”

You Ruxu said, “What is it?”

Chen Xiang said, “Dr. Zhou’s father, was his name Zhou Qiming?”

You Ruxu’s lips pressed into a thin line, her face paling slightly.