Category: Friend(GL)

Chapter 47: Cough

Zhou Tianzui, ignoring Wu Xiulian and Wu Xiulian’s mother behind her, took two steps forward. She didn’t startle You Ruxu, but crouched down beside her, the umbrella shielding You Ruxu’s face. You Ruxu looked up, startled, a flicker of panic in her eyes seeing Zhou Tianzui.

As if afraid Zhou Tianzui would ask about the teddy bear.

You Ruxu met her gaze. Zhou Tianzui opened her mouth, but no sound came out, her throat tight and aching, a lump forming, her vision blurring, not just You Ruxu’s face, but the entire world.

She lowered her head, composing herself before speaking, “What are you doing here?”

Her voice was gentle, carried by the rain, reaching You Ruxu’s ears.

You Ruxu said, “I lost your teddy bear.”

Then stubbornly added, “I have to find it.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t look for it anymore.”

She reached for You Ruxu’s hand, but You Ruxu didn’t move. Zhou Tianzui knew she was being stubborn, “I didn’t throw it away, it’s in your mother’s room.”

You Ruxu considered this for a moment, then said, “Are you just trying to trick me into going home?”

Her voice was clear, yet fragile. Zhou Tianzui wanted to cry.

It had been a long, long time since she felt like this.

She was thirty years old, yet at this moment, she wanted to cry like a child, to hold You Ruxu and sob. But she held back, coaxing You Ruxu, “No, I’m not lying, it’s really in your mother’s room. She saw it was raining, so she didn’t throw it away yet.”

Wu Xiulian and Wu Xiulian’s mother stood behind them, listening to their conversation. Wu Xiulian’s eyes were blank and unfocused, as if her understanding of the world had been shattered. She looked at You Ruxu, dazed.

Wu Xiulian also crouched down: “Xu Xu, let’s go home, alright?”

They were both treating her like a child.

You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, her resolve wavering. She tried to stand up, but having crouched for so long, her legs were numb. She tried again, but couldn’t. Zhou Tianzui handed her the umbrella, turned around, and crouched down, offering her back. You Ruxu hesitated. Wu Xiulian gently helped her onto Zhou Tianzui’s back. Zhou Tianzui carried her steadily.

You Ruxu’s hands, usually so clean and fair, now dirty and blackened, hung by Zhou Tianzui’s sides. But to Zhou Tianzui, they were more beautiful and pure than any other hands she had ever seen.

She rubbed her cheek against You Ruxu’s arm, getting dirt on her face.

Zhou Tianzui, carrying You Ruxu, stood in front of Wu Xiulian and heard You Ruxu whisper, “Mom.”

Wu Xiulian’s eyes were red, wanting to say something, but she didn’t. She just nodded, “Let’s go home.”

She wanted to follow, but Wu Xiulian stopped her, shaking her head, watching the two walk away, their steps unsteady in the rain. On the way, You Ruxu asked Zhou Tianzui, “Is my mom angry?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “No.”

You Ruxu asked again, “Are you angry?”

Zhou Tianzui’s vision was blurred by the rain, but her voice remained gentle, “No.”

“You are.” You Ruxu said, “You are angry.”

It wasn’t an accusation, but a quiet complaint. Zhou Tianzui’s words were caught in her throat. She pursed her lips. You Ruxu’s chin rested on her shoulder as she held the umbrella. After a while, You Ruxu said, “My legs are fine now, put me down.”

“It’s okay.” Zhou Tianzui refused, “Let’s just stay like this.”

Her voice was low, “A Ran, just like this, don’t move.”

You Ruxu stopped moving.

They ran into You Shu downstairs. Zhou Tianzui put You Ruxu down and stood beside her. You Shu seemed to understand and didn’t ask anything, just said, “Go home and take a hot shower.”

Wu Xiulian caught up to them, “Come to my place.”

She looked at Wu Xiulian’s mother and said to You Ruxu, “Xu Xu, you and Dr. Zhou go to my place first, I’ll go get some clothes from your apartment.”

The rain was pouring down. You Ruxu looked at Wu Xiulian’s mother, then after a few seconds, nodded, “Okay.”

She took Zhou Tianzui to Wu Xiulian’s apartment.

Wu Xiulian lived alone. It was a one-bedroom apartment with a spacious living room, decorated simply but warmly. You Ruxu took off her jacket and said to Zhou Tianzui, “You shower first, I’ll find you some clothes.”

Zhou Tianzui’s hand was icy cold when she touched it. Zhou Tianzui pushed her towards the bathroom, “You shower first.”

“I…” You Ruxu started to say, but Zhou Tianzui interrupted, “Or I can help you.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Wu Xiulian would be here soon, how could she let Zhou Tianzui help her shower?

She went into the bathroom, the hot water making her shiver, her skin tingling from the sudden change in temperature, a mix of cold and numbness. She stood there for a while before finally stepping under the showerhead.

Zhou Tianzui stood outside, afraid of dirtying Wu Xiulian’s apartment, standing on a bath mat. Looking up, she saw her reflection in the mirror, her eyes red, her face pale. She closed her eyes, the image of You Ruxu crouching on the ground, searching through trash bags, flashing before her.

How long had she been searching?

Covered in filth.

That moon-like person…

“Xu Xu.” A voice came from outside, it was Wu Xiulian. Zhou Tianzui walked out and saw her carrying two bags, “These are Xu Xu’s clothes, and these are yours.” She was also holding a teddy bear, its fur dirty and matted. Zhou Tianzui felt a pang in her heart, she took the bags and said, “Thank you.”

She took the clothes into the bathroom.

You Ruxu hadn’t finished showering yet. Zhou Tianzui left the clothes inside and came back out. Wu Xiulian said, “Were you scared?”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t speak.

Wu Xiulian said, “Even I was scared.”

She looked towards the bathroom, “When did that child become like this…”

Wu Xiulian’s voice was soft, almost a whisper, blending with the sound of rain outside, “She was so young when she came to live with us, malnourished, smaller than even a three-year-old. Back then, my sister had just lost her child, and You Ruxu—” She lowered her head, “That was my niece’s name.”

“Xu Xu knew.” Wu Xiulian said, “She knew her name was her older sister’s. My sister wanted to use that name, but my brother-in-law didn’t agree. So Xu Xu went to talk to him, she said she liked the name very much, and she didn’t mind, she would be my sister’s daughter, she would be a good girl, obedient, and always be You Ruxu.”

Wu Xiulian’s eyes reddened. “When she was young, she would try her best to please everyone around her.”

She looked down at her slippers, “Once, she got a 98 on a test, and I praised her, saying, ‘Xu Xu, you’re so smart, you’ll get a 100 next time.’”

“After that, she avoided me for a while.”

“Until I finally caught her, and she said she was embarrassed to see me because she didn’t get a 100, she felt guilty.”

“But it was just a casual encouragement, a joke.”

Wu Xiulian said, “She was so afraid of being sent away, so afraid of being abandoned. She worried that if she did anything wrong, she wouldn’t be able to stay with us, so she endured everything. You know, I was so afraid she would be bullied at school, because she’s so used to enduring things, I was always worried her classmates would bully her.”

“But she was fine.” Wu Xiulian said, “She was never bullied at school, do you know why?”

Zhou Tianzui looked at Wu Xiulian, shaking her head, “Why?”

Wu Xiulian said, “Because she cared, she cared about us, so she could endure anything.”

It wasn’t that she didn’t care about her classmates, it was just a different level of care. In front of others, she would treat everyone equally.

Like at school.

Like at work.

The closer the relationship, the more she endured.

Zhou Tianzui was silent.

Wu Xiulian said, “During her last semester of high school, she accidentally lost her deskmate’s award badge, a city-level award. She felt so guilty. Her deskmate said it was okay, and if she really felt bad, she could just spend a day with him, but Xu Xu didn’t go, because she knew her deskmate liked her, and she didn’t want to give him false hope.”

“Later, she gave him her own city-level award badge.”

It was her way of making amends.

Wu Xiulian said, “Dr. Zhou, there are many ways to compensate, Xu Xu knows the difference between making amends and liking someone.”

Zhou Tianzui stood there, hearing the bathroom door open. You Ruxu, wearing pajamas, opened the door, looked at Zhou Tianzui, and paused for a moment. Their eyes met. Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu’s out, Dr. Zhou, you can go shower now.”

“I’ll make you some ginger tea to ward off the cold.”

You Ruxu stood there, her face probably flushed from the steam. Zhou Tianzui said, “Are you done?”

“Yes.” You Ruxu moved aside, letting Zhou Tianzui enter, then walked out. Seeing the teddy bear on the sofa, she froze, turning to look at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Your aunt brought it over.”

You Ruxu nodded.

Just as she was about to speak, her throat itched, and she coughed a few times. Zhou Tianzui gently patted her back, her hand feeling very warm. She frowned, placed her hand on You Ruxu’s forehead, and said, “You have a fever.”

Having a cold, then being out in the rain for half the night, even the strongest person couldn’t withstand it. But You Ruxu didn’t feel feverish. She touched her forehead and said, “It is a little warm, I’ll just take some medicine.”

Zhou Tianzui, worried, asked, “Where’s your medicine?”

You Ruxu gestured towards the cabinet by the bookshelf, where Wu Xiulian’s medicine cabinet was. But she didn’t know if there was any fever medication. Zhou Tianzui walked over, opened the cabinet, took out the medicine cabinet, and found some anti-inflammatory and fever medication. Just as she turned around, Wu Xiulian also entered the living room. Seeing the medicine in her hand, she said, “She has a fever?”

You Ruxu said, “A little.”

Her face was burning hot, yet she said “a little.” Zhou Tianzui ignored her, prepared the appropriate dosage, and handed it to You Ruxu with a glass of warm water. After You Ruxu took the medicine, Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu, just sleep here tonight, I’ve already told your mother.”

You Ruxu said, “Where will you sleep then?”

“In the study, there’s a bed there.” It was a tatami mat for resting. You Ruxu had slept there before. She said, “Then I’ll sleep in the study, Aunt, you sleep in the bedroom.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Don’t be difficult when you’re sick. Dr. Zhou, take Xu Xu to the bedroom, I’ll go get the ginger tea.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui took the empty glass and looked at You Ruxu, who went to the bedroom. Zhou Tianzui stood there for a moment, and You Ruxu said, “You go take a shower.”

Her clothes were half-wet, it must be uncomfortable. Zhou Tianzui said, “Then you go to sleep first.”

You Ruxu nodded and watched Zhou Tianzui go to the bathroom. She turned over, either because of the unfamiliar bed or the fever, but she felt very uncomfortable, tossing and turning, as if she was burning up one moment and freezing the next. She got out of bed, quietly went to the living room, took the teddy bear from the sofa, and returned to the bedroom, hugging it tightly. She instantly felt calmer and warmer. Wu Xiulian opened the door, about to call her, but seeing her curled up, hugging the teddy bear, looking like when she first arrived at their home, so young and small, not wanting to bother anyone even when she was sick.

Wu Xiulian’s nose tingled. She looked down, hearing a noise behind her. Zhou Tianzui, fresh from the shower, wearing You Ruxu’s pajamas, stood at the doorway. You Ruxu, hearing the sound, also turned around and sat up, looking towards the door.

Wu Xiulian walked in with a bowl of ginger tea and handed it to You Ruxu: “Drink this to warm your stomach.”

You Ruxu lowered her head and took a sip, the spiciness making her cough, her eyes watering slightly, the droplets clinging to her eyelashes, making her look even more fragile. Zhou Tianzui stood beside her, hearing Wu Xiulian say, “Dr. Zhou, you sleep with Xu Xu.”

You Ruxu coughed again.

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Zhou Tianzui: Your aunt is so nice.
You Ruxu: She’s my aunt.
Zhou Tianzui: What’s yours is mine.
You Ruxu: …

Chapter 46: Stubborn

Zhou Tianzui sat in a chair, the room reeking of alcohol. She didn’t like the smell and never drank before. Tonight, on a whim, she had a little, and as expected, it wasn’t pleasant.

She looked towards the doorway, remembering You Ruxu’s parting words: Pathetic?

It was like a hammer blow to her chest, a dull ache. She sat quietly for a long time, listening to the rain outside, then stood up and gathered the empty bottles and cans on the coffee table, tossing them into a trash bag. After tidying up the living room, she looked at the kitchen, walked over, and sat down at the table. The scallion and egg drop soup, which You Ruxu had only taken a sip of, had gone cold. The green scallions, soaked in the soup, had turned a dark, murky green. Zhou Tianzui absently stirred the soup with a spoon, then took a sip, the coldness spreading through her.

It was truly unpleasant.

Was this how You Ruxu felt when she ate this?

She could have easily said she didn’t like it and asked for something else, just like how she had hinted at her plans to return to Yuhai, instead of telling Zhou Tianzui directly.

She had never stopped You Ruxu from doing what she wanted, she just, wished You Ruxu would talk to her.

But You Ruxu was a clam.

And she didn’t know how such a clam could be a reporter. Zhou Tianzui thought she must be drunk, her mind wandering, thinking about You Ruxu, remembering the first time they met, You Ruxu standing outside the car window, smiling at her, softly calling out, “Dr. Zhou.”

She remembered the many times You Ruxu waited for her in the car after work, so engrossed in her work that she would lose track of time, and realizing how long she had waited, would look at her apologetically, asking what she could do to make it up to her.

Guilt, compensation.

Zhou Tianzui didn’t want anything to do with such words, but she knew, deep down, that if it weren’t for guilt, You Ruxu wouldn’t tolerate her temper.

She felt like someone who wanted to have her cake and eat it too.

It wasn’t You Ruxu who was pathetic.

It was her.

She was the one who mistook guilt for love, foolishly thinking she could have a normal relationship.

Zhou Tianzui’s mind was in a mess, but she continued to drink the cold soup, the chill seeping into her bones. Just as she put down the bowl, her phone rang. It was an unknown number.

An unknown number at two in the morning, Zhou Tianzui didn’t intend to answer.

But the caller was persistent. Zhou Tianzui pursed her lips and answered the call, a familiar voice coming through, “Ruxu, is Ruxu with you?”

It was Wu Xiulian.

Zhou Tianzui paused and said, “No, she’s not, what’s wrong?”

She abruptly stood up, hearing the tremor in Wu Xiulian’s voice, “I don’t know where she went, she didn’t come to you…?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “No.”

You Ruxu had left just a few hours ago. She asked, “Did she go home?”

Wu Xiulian said, “She was home earlier tonight.”

She had been home earlier, but when Wu Xiulian went to the bathroom just now, passing by You Ruxu’s room, she remembered that the window was still half-open in the afternoon and, worried You Ruxu might be cold, went to close it. She knocked, but there was no answer, so she quietly opened the door. The bed was empty.

You Ruxu wasn’t home.

She wasn’t the type to wander off. Even if she went out, she would tell her or her father, never disappearing suddenly. So, Wu Xiulian was worried and immediately called You Ruxu, but the call went unanswered. Panicked, she called Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ll come over and take a look.”

Wu Xiulian said, “No—”

She instinctively wanted to refuse, then thought, could it be because she threw away You Ruxu’s teddy bear? She paused and said, “Are you still awake?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes.”

Wu Xiulian said, “If it’s not too much trouble, could you please check around the hotel? If she comes to you, please contact us immediately, okay?”

Zhou Tianzui agreed, grabbed her jacket, and rushed downstairs. It was cold outside, the rain even heavier now. It had been raining constantly since she arrived in Yuhai, worsening her already gloomy mood. She called You Ruxu, no answer.

You Ruxu never used to ignore her calls. Even if she was in a meeting, she would hang up and immediately message her back, telling her what she was doing. This sudden silence made Zhou Tianzui inexplicably anxious.

Especially after what she had said tonight. Even though she knew You Ruxu wasn’t so fragile, she couldn’t shake the fear.

It couldn’t be.

Zhou Tianzui searched while reassuring herself, then chuckled at her own absurdity. Just a few hours ago, she was the one telling You Ruxu not to come looking for her, and now she was frantically searching, like an ant on a hot pan.

But she was still afraid.

Her self-reassurance didn’t work. Zhou Tianzui, holding an umbrella, searched around the hotel. It was easy to search, as there was no one on the streets, except for the 24-hour convenience store. Everywhere else was dark. After searching twice, not finding anyone, she took a taxi to You Ruxu’s home.

She kept an eye out for any familiar figures on the way.

But she saw nothing.

You Ruxu seemed to have entered a sudden rebellious phase, disappearing without a trace. Wu Xiulian and You Shu, wearing raincoats, were waiting downstairs. Wu Xiulian shook her head when she arrived: “She’s not here.”

“She recently reconnected with that, Han Shuang, right? Her classmate, could she have gone to find her?” Wu Xiulian asked. Wu Xiulian said, “I don’t know, let me get Han Shuang’s contact information.”

When Zhou Tianzui arrived at the You family’s apartment, she saw Wu Xiulian and Wu Xiulian standing downstairs, You Shu still searching nearby. Wu Xiulian, seeing her, was startled and asked, “Any news about Ruxu?”

Zhou Tianzui shook her head.

Wu Xiulian hung up the phone and said, “She didn’t go to Han Shuang’s.”

She then asked Wu Xiulian’s mother, “Sis, what happened to Xu Xu? Why would she suddenly leave home? Did you say something to her?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “I didn’t say anything!”

She glanced at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui’s face was pale and bloodless, her slender frame looking even thinner in the wind.

Wu Xiulian didn’t say anything more.

So, was it because of what she had said?

Zhou Tianzui felt a lump in her throat, unable to speak. Wu Xiulian said, “Could she have gone to a bar nearby?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “Your brother-in-law has already asked someone to check.”

Wu Xiulian rubbed her forehead. After a moment of thought, Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “Tonight—” She looked at Zhou Tianzui, “I told her I threw away her teddy bear.”

“That teddy bear she always brings home?” Even Wu Xiulian knew about it. The first time You Ruxu came back from Jindu, she slept with Wu Xiulian, hugging the teddy bear, asking, “Aunt, isn’t this bear cute?”

Wu Xiulian, looking at the cheap teddy bear that probably cost less than fifty yuan, couldn’t see anything cute about it, shaking her head.

You Ruxu insisted, “It is cute.”

And added, “I like it very much.”

Wu Xiulian teased her, “You like it that much? Then let your aunt hold it.”

You Ruxu refused, “No, you can’t.”

Her tone as serious as if they were discussing a life-altering decision, not a teddy bear. Wu Xiulian frowned, “Why did you throw it away?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “It was torn, so I threw it away.”

“Sis!” Wu Xiulian, with Zhou Tianzui present, didn’t say anything more. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Where did you throw it away?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother was silent.

Wu Xiulian said, “Sis! Maybe that’s why Xu Xu left! Where did you throw it away?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “It’s in my room.”

Wu Xiulian was stunned: “Does Xu Xu know?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “No.”

Zhou Tianzui, hearing this, immediately went to search the nearby trash cans. Wu Xiulian seemed to understand as well and pulled Wu Xiulian’s mother along, searching along the trash cans. Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “No, Ruxu wouldn’t rummage through the trash.”

She couldn’t imagine such a clean and tidy child looking through the garbage.

Wu Xiulian didn’t say anything.

She also couldn’t imagine it. You Ruxu, from the moment she arrived at their home, had always been clean and organized, knowing You Shu had a bit of OCD, always keeping her room tidy, her clothes wrinkle-free, always maintaining a polished and presentable image in public, a habit ingrained since childhood. She would even help tidy up if she saw You Ruxu’s room messy when bringing things upstairs for her.

Such a clean person, now possibly searching through the trash.

The thought made Wu Xiulian’s heart ache.

They searched all the trash cans in the complex, meeting Zhou Tianzui again, but found nothing. Wu Xiulian’s mother, either relieved or trying to comfort herself, said, “Ruxu wouldn’t do that.”

Zhou Tianzui, hearing this, asked, “Is there a garbage disposal station nearby?”

Wu Xiulian’s mother paused.

Wu Xiulian said, “G-garbage disposal station?” She said, “There’s one near the north gate, but it’s a bit far.”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t wait to hear more, rushing out with her umbrella. Wu Xiulian, worried, pulled Wu Xiulian’s mother along. The rain beat heavily against the umbrella. Zhou Tianzui walked quickly, heading straight towards the north gate, searching for the exact location of the garbage disposal station on her phone. She soon saw it in the distance, the streetlights dim and hazy in the heavy rain. She heard Wu Xiulian’s mother insist behind her, “Ruxu wouldn’t come here.”

It was as if fate was deliberately proving her wrong.

Zhou Tianzui looked up and saw someone crouching on the ground, opening trash bags. There were many opened bags around her. You Ruxu hadn’t ripped them open, scattering trash everywhere, but carefully opened them one by one, placing the ones she had searched through to the side. There was already a large pile. She wasn’t using an umbrella, still wearing the same clothes as tonight, her hair drenched, stubbornly searching through one bag after another.

Zhou Tianzui froze.

She stood in front, blocking the view from behind. Wu Xiulian and Wu Xiulian’s mother, approaching, were about to ask what was wrong when they followed her gaze. You Ruxu was crouching there, seemingly isolated from the world, the rain washing over her, surrounded by filth, but she seemed oblivious, just continuing her search, opening each bag, pausing only when she saw something resembling a stuffed toy, placing it aside.

Her lips pressed into a tight line.

A heartbreaking stubbornness.

Zhou Tianzui stood a few meters away, holding her umbrella, her eyes red and blurry with tears.

Chapter 45: Game Play

Zhou Tianzui understood her very well. Although she would often jokingly call herself mute, pretending not to understand You Ruxu, You Ruxu knew that Zhou Tianzui understood her perfectly, even her unspoken emotions.

But now, Zhou Tianzui was unresponsive, just standing there, frozen. You Ruxu, catching her breath, called out, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Her voice was clear and bright, like the sound of rain outside, like pearls falling on a jade plate.

Zhou Tianzui stiffened. She stood still, You Ruxu surrounded by her scent and the smell of alcohol. You Ruxu asked, “Are you drunk?”

She turned and looked up, meeting Zhou Tianzui’s gaze.

The light was dim, Zhou Tianzui close, so close that You Ruxu could feel her breath as she spoke, “Do you want me to be drunk?”

What kind of question was that?

You Ruxu didn’t know how to answer for a moment. Zhou Tianzui leaned closer, a cold and indifferent smile playing on her lips, a familiar expression You Ruxu had seen many times before.

But not recently.

Her heart sank, like plunging into ice water, a chilling coldness. You Ruxu wanted to speak, but her tongue felt tied. Zhou Tianzui took two steps back, putting some distance between them. You Ruxu saw several empty beer cans on the coffee table, and an unopened six-pack beside them. She asked Zhou Tianzui, “Why did you drink so much?”

She frowned, “Did something happen at the hospital?”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t speak.

You Ruxu asked again, “Or is it your mom…?”

“Why don’t you ask if something happened to me?” Zhou Tianzui’s tone was cool. She sat on the coffee table and asked You Ruxu, “Can’t anything happen to me?”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

She realized Zhou Tianzui was looking for a fight.

Like a hedgehog, baring its quills.

She stood there for a few seconds, then sat beside Zhou Tianzui and asked, “Then what happened to you?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Nothing happened.”

She pushed a beer can towards You Ruxu, gesturing for her to drink. You Ruxu was puzzled, but still took it and took a sip. Zhou Tianzui asked, “What does it taste like?”

You Ruxu tasted a slight bitterness.

She looked at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui, seeing her silence, leaned closer, her body tilting forward, and gently touched You Ruxu’s lips. You Ruxu liked this kind of intimacy with Zhou Tianzui, different from their usual entanglement. This simple touch gave her the illusion that they loved each other, which was why she had enjoyed it so much before.

A sweetness mixed with the taste of alcohol, a unique blend.

To You Ruxu, it was sweet.

With a hint of bitterness.

Zhou Tianzui tasted sourness.

An overwhelming bitterness.

She held You Ruxu tightly in her arms. You Ruxu’s arm hurt from being squeezed, and she frowned, “Zhou Tianzui?”

Zhou Tianzui ignored her, continuing to hold her with an undeniable force. You Ruxu, trapped, turned her head and patted Zhou Tianzui’s shoulder, trying to push her away, but failed.

After a while.

Zhou Tianzui released her.

Asked again, “What does it taste like?”

You Ruxu’s mind was still hazy, she looked at Zhou Tianzui, dazed, this person both familiar and unfamiliar today.

Zhou Tianzui stood up and went to the kitchenette beside the bathroom. The hotel room came with a small kitchen, equipped with only basic utensils and an induction cooker, enough for simple meals like noodles or rice, but not for elaborate dishes.

You Ruxu, unsure what Zhou Tianzui was doing, followed her.

Zhou Tianzui turned on the light, instantly illuminating the living room and the kitchen, making it exceptionally bright. She stood there, cracking an egg, chopping scallions, her movements slow and deliberate. You Ruxu walked over and asked, “What are you doing?”

“Cooking.” Zhou Tianzui didn’t look up, focused on making scallion and egg drop soup. She had made it countless times in the past few years, every step ingrained in her memory, knowing exactly what seasonings to add, and how much, even with her eyes closed.

But in all these years, she had never asked You Ruxu if she liked it.

Zhou Tianzui’s hand paused, a self-deprecating smile appearing on her face. Her back to You Ruxu, her movements became even quicker. You Ruxu stood behind her, unable to interrupt, unable to help. She could only sit at the counter beside the kitchen.

Soon, Zhou Tianzui was done.

She placed the steaming bowl of soup in front of You Ruxu.

The green scallions floated on the surface of the egg drop soup, a pleasing sight. You Ruxu stirred the soup with a spoon, the rising steam obscuring Zhou Tianzui’s expression.

She was still wearing the same clothes, the hem wrinkled, but Zhou Tianzui didn’t seem to care. You Ruxu just glanced at it.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Eat.”

You Ruxu lowered her head, took a spoonful of soup, blew on it, and sipped. It was the familiar taste.

Zhou Tianzui sat beside her and asked casually, “Have you ever thought about changing jobs?”

You Ruxu paused and looked at Zhou Tianzui: “What?”

Zhou Tianzui repeated: “I’m asking if you’re interested in a different job.”

You Ruxu said, “What kind of job?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “An actress.”

She looked at You Ruxu, their eyes meeting. Zhou Tianzui’s gaze was deep and dark, unreadable, “Teacher You, with your acting skills, it’s a waste not to become an actress.”

You Ruxu frowned slightly.

Zhou Tianzui tilted her chin, “How does it taste?”

This was the third time she had asked this question tonight.

You Ruxu asked, “What’s wrong with you?”

“Me?” Zhou Tianzui said, “There’s nothing wrong with me, it’s Teacher You who’s been working hard. I heard you didn’t like cilantro since you were young?”

You Ruxu froze.

She truly didn’t like it.

How did Zhou Tianzui know?

Zhou Tianzui, seeing her dazed expression, asked again, “I’m really curious, what does it feel like to eat something you don’t like? Teacher You, doesn’t it make you nauseous?”

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “It does for me.”

“Eating something I don’t like makes me nauseous. Teacher You must feel the same, right?”

You Ruxu looked at her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “But I don’t have your endurance, being able to endure it for three years. What does it feel like? Forcing yourself to eat scallions even though you hate them, how does it taste?”

“Does it make you feel self-righteous, moved by your own tolerance?”

You Ruxu said, “I don’t…”

“You don’t what? You don’t dislike scallions?” Zhou Tianzui’s expression darkened. She looked at the small bowl in front of You Ruxu, wondering how much she had endured in the past three years.

Eating food she hated.

Or sleeping with someone she loathed?

She wanted to ask her, what did it feel like to kiss her? Disgusting? What did it feel like to sleep with her? Was she also enduring it? She had thought, assumed that between them, at least, it was mutual torture, a consensual game of pain.

So, she had let go of the past, wanting to be a normal couple.

She had never considered, what if You Ruxu didn’t like it?

Zhou Tianzui found her “revenge” of the past few years ridiculous.

Those struggles were ridiculous.

A blatant slap in the face, mocking her own wishful thinking.

You Ruxu said, “I didn’t like it before…”

“But you’re used to it now, so you like it, is that it?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Your kind of ‘like’ is really cheap.”

You Ruxu didn’t understand what she meant. She frowned and called out, “Zhou Tianzui!”

“Just leave.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t come looking for me anymore.”

Those words froze You Ruxu, like a bucket of cold water poured over her head. Her hands were icy. She looked at Zhou Tianzui, “What do you mean?”

She didn’t understand, “But recently you’ve been…”

“What about recently?” Zhou Tianzui chuckled, a cold and emotionless laugh, “Been nicer to you recently? What? Gotten used to it? You Ruxu, I just thought our three-year bed-buddy arrangement was getting boring, I wanted to try something new, that’s all.”

You Ruxu’s body tensed, countless questions suddenly answered, a moment of confusion followed by a soft, murmured, “Try something new?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Is that a problem? Or does Teacher You find our three-year bed-buddy arrangement not boring enough? Then Teacher You really is…”

You Ruxu finished her sentence: “Pathetic?”

Zhou Tianzui’s jaw tightened, hearing that word. She didn’t say anything more. You Ruxu looked at her for two minutes, then stood up and left the room.

The door slammed shut.

The living room was quiet, only the sound of the relentless rain outside.

Growing heavier and heavier.

After leaving the hotel, You Ruxu got into a taxi and went home, her head resting against the car window, listening to the rain beating against the glass. Her expression was blank, her mind in a daze, Zhou Tianzui’s words echoing in her ears like a curse, binding her, immobilizing her.

“Miss, we’ve arrived.” The driver called out. She snapped back to reality, about to get out without paying, only remembering when the driver called out to her again.

She went upstairs, pressed the elevator button, and reached her door.

The walk wasn’t long, nor was it short.

You Ruxu stood at the door and knocked. Wu Xiulian’s voice came from inside, “Coming.”

She opened the door and exclaimed, “Ruxu, where are your keys?”

Where were her keys?

They were in her hand, she had just forgotten to use them.

Wu Xiulian asked her, “Weren’t you at your aunt’s? Why are your clothes wet?”

Her shoulder was damp from the rain when she got out of the car. You Ruxu said, “I went downstairs to get something.”

Wu Xiulian nodded and said, “Go change your clothes.”

You Ruxu went to her room.

Numbly, she opened the wardrobe door and suddenly felt that something was different. She looked around the room, her gaze settling on the bed. Wu Xiulian, following her gaze, said, “Oh, I tidied up your room tonight, that teddy bear on your bed was torn, so I threw it away. I’ll buy you a new one tomorrow.”

You Ruxu was silent for a few seconds, then said calmly, “Yes, I know.”

Chapter 44: Compensation

You Ruxu sat on a chair. Several professors were on stage, a medical case being projected on the screen behind them, their voices clearly amplified. A few doctors in the audience yawned. The session was longer than yesterday’s, still not over at noon. Han Shuang, returning from the restroom, said, “It’s like a class that’s running over time, don’t these people need to use the restroom?”

You Ruxu, also feeling the urge now, went to the restroom. By the time she returned, the session was over.

Han Shuang lay listlessly on the equipment, her eyes wide open, and said, “I’m so sleepy, are you going out for lunch?”

You Ruxu looked around, but didn’t see Zhou Tianzui. Her already gloomy mood worsened, “Let’s go.”

She wanted to find Zhou Tianzui.

Han Shuang said, “Then bring me back a lunchbox.”

You Ruxu asked, “Aren’t you coming?”

Han Shuang said, “I want to take a nap.”

You Ruxu agreed. Since Han Shuang was staying, she didn’t bring the equipment and just left with her bag. Just as she took out her phone to unlock the car, she saw a familiar figure among a group of people nearby.

One of them was Han Shuang’s cousin, the one they had dinner with yesterday. These were probably doctors from the city hospital. Han Shuang’s cousin was introducing them, and Zhou Tianzui nodded and greeted them with a smile.

You Ruxu had previously thought Zhou Tianzui didn’t like socializing, but she was wrong. Zhou Tianzui was actually very good at it. Although she was always overly serious and formal, her words and actions were always to the point. If she wanted to, she could easily win people over.

Like Han Shuang’s cousin, whose eyes held admiration.

You Ruxu, standing a distance away, didn’t approach, just stood there, holding her phone. She didn’t know if Zhou Tianzui had seen her. Zhou Tianzui followed the group into the hotel, chatting animatedly even with people she had just met.

You Ruxu went to a restaurant, packed a lunchbox, and brought it back for Han Shuang.

Han Shuang, surprised to see her back so soon, asked, “You didn’t eat?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m not hungry.”

Han Shuang said, “You don’t look well, are you feeling sick? Is your cold still bothering you?”

You Ruxu, taking the cue, nodded, “Yes, my cold isn’t completely gone yet, I have a bit of a headache.”

“Then why don’t you go back and rest?” Han Shuang said, “We’ll cover the afternoon session, let me know if you need anything.”

You Ruxu hadn’t intended to leave, but hearing this, she wavered, “Okay, I’ll go back and rest then.”

Han Shuang nodded and saw her out.

Leaving work early, You Ruxu drove aimlessly. Her family probably wasn’t home. She drove around, and remembering her mother’s suggestion about buying clothes, thought of the brand Zhou Tianzui often wore. She found a store on the navigation app and drove there. The parking spot had no cover, and the drizzle hit her face, making her frown.

Inside the store, two or three shop assistants were chatting. Seeing a customer enter, they immediately approached, eager to make recommendations. You Ruxu looked around and said, “Could I try on that blue jacket?”

“Of course.” The shop assistant said, “With your figure, it will fit perfectly. And it’s leather, perfect for this rainy weather, just wipe it clean, the material is excellent…”

You Ruxu took the jacket. It was a long trench coat style, but slightly thicker, warmer, and easy to care for. The deep blue color had a cool sheen under the lights, perfect for Zhou Tianzui.

She thought it was very suitable.

She also bought a pair of jeans, a lighter shade of blue than the jacket, slim-fitting, accentuating the legs nicely. You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui had similar figures. After trying it on, she chose the size and paid, leaving the store, her mood much improved.

At least, she had a reason to visit Zhou Tianzui tonight.

After buying things for Zhou Tianzui, she bought thermal underwear and a set of clothes each for You Shu and Wu Xiulian, and a fashionable business suit for Wu Xiulian, even though she rarely came home, she always remembered to buy them clothes and shoes every season, so she knew their sizes. Being busy helped her forget her troubles, but after finishing, she started thinking about Zhou Tianzui again.

Zhou Tianzui probably hadn’t finished work yet, she would likely be very late today.

You Ruxu went home first, dropped off the clothes for You Shu and Wu Xiulian, and took Wu Xiulian’s upstairs. Suddenly free, she reported to Shi Qi about work, then received a call from Chen Xiang.

Chen Xiang wailed through the phone, “Teacher You, I’m so busy I’m dying!”

You Ruxu asked, “What’s wrong?”

“Since you left, and I’m working with the new reporter, I’m constantly working overtime. I don’t even know how they work, it’s a mess, I don’t get to sleep until midnight every day.” Chen Xiang really wanted to cry. She missed You Ruxu terribly.

You Ruxu asked, “The explosion case isn’t over yet?”

“It’s all wrapped up today.” Chen Xiang said, “Otherwise, I wouldn’t have time to call you. You’ll be back in a few days, right?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

Chen Xiang thanked Buddha repeatedly and said, “But the boss is quite pleased with herself lately.”

You Ruxu asked, “How so?”

“You probably don’t know yet, but that interview we did with CCTV, and the exclusive interview about the explosion, the higher-ups praised us, and now the boss is chairing all the meetings.”

Previously, they rotated, each team leader chairing for a week, but now Shi Qi was in charge.

No wonder she was pleased with herself.

You Ruxu wasn’t very interested in these office politics, just casually chatting. Someone called for Chen Xiang. She said, “Then I’ll hang up, Teacher You, come back soon.”

You Ruxu chuckled and hung up the phone.

She hadn’t slept well last night, but listening to the steady drumming of the rain outside, she felt a little sleepy. You Ruxu lay down on her desk, watching the raindrops on the windowsill, each drop forming a ripple, the circles surrounding her. She closed her eyes and rested.

She was woken up.

There was the sound of the door opening. It was probably Wu Xiulian. Seeing the shopping bags on the sofa, Wu Xiulian smiled, then walked to You Ruxu’s room and called out, “Ruxu.”

You Ruxu was lying on her desk, her face turned away. Wu Xiulian walked in and saw her sleeping, so she lightened her steps, but You Ruxu still woke up. She opened her eyes, looked at Wu Xiulian, and after a moment of confusion, called out, “Mom.”

“Hey, you went shopping?” Wu Xiulian said, “Didn’t we agree to go together? But I was very busy this afternoon, didn’t have time to call you.”

You Ruxu said, “I finished early this afternoon, so I went.”

Wu Xiulian nodded, smiling, “I love it.”

You Ruxu got up and followed her to the living room. You Shu happened to arrive home as well, putting away his umbrella. Wu Xiulian immediately started showing off, “Our daughter bought me some clothes.”

You Ruxu said, “I bought some for Dad too.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I saw it. Let your dad stew for a bit.”

She chuckled, and You Ruxu also smiled.

She glanced at the clock, it was past seven already. She had been asleep for hours, no wonder her back ached. She looked at the shopping bags on the shoe cabinet, picked them up, and said, “Mom…”

There was a knock on the door. Wu Xiulian called out, “Xu Xu!”

Wu Xiulian’s mother said, “Is it for your aunt? Go ahead, go ahead.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips, didn’t speak, opened the door. Wu Xiulian saw her come out and was about to speak when You Ruxu pulled her outside, turning to say, “Mom, I won’t be home for dinner.”

Wu Xiulian, thinking she was going out with Wu Xiulian, nodded, “Go ahead, have fun.”

You Ruxu pulled Wu Xiulian away.

Wu Xiulian was confused: “What’s going on?”

You Ruxu said, “Aunt, are you looking for me?”

Wu Xiulian said, “Did you buy me clothes?”

You Ruxu nodded.

Wu Xiulian said, “So thoughtful, should your aunt thank you? Tell me, what do you want in return?”

You Ruxu hadn’t intended to ask for anything, but hearing Wu Xiulian say this, she smiled, “Take me to the hotel.”

Wu Xiulian clicked her tongue, not asking, not speaking, just looking at You Ruxu.

You Ruxu, under her gaze, looked back.

Wu Xiulian said, “Okay.”

You Ruxu breathed a sigh of relief.

She suddenly felt nervous. She rarely bought anything for Zhou Tianzui, just the occasional crispy pastries, or some jewelry for her birthday, which Zhou Tianzui never wore. The first time, she had bought Zhou Tianzui a bracelet, after searching through several stores, finding one she thought was perfect. After buying it, she gave it to Zhou Tianzui, who just said indifferently, “Thank you.”

She hadn’t even opened it, just casually placed it on the dresser.

You Ruxu hadn’t bought her anything since.

This was a gift after a long time, and You Ruxu’s mood was the same as when she gave her the bracelet. But she also felt it was different. She had sensed Zhou Tianzui’s recent changes. It was just that last night, she might have been busy, or perhaps—

You Ruxu was searching for excuses.

She, who always valued practicality and truth, was now making excuses for her own peace of mind.

You Ruxu’s mind was in turmoil. Her fingertips were cold when she got out of the car. Wu Xiulian asked, “Want me to wait for you?”

Before she could reply, Wu Xiulian said, “Forget it, you’re probably not coming back tonight.”

“Don’t worry, I know what to tell your mother.”

You Ruxu blushed slightly, hearing her aunt’s words. Wu Xiulian said, “Go ahead.”

You Ruxu nodded and walked towards the hotel. After a few steps, she turned back and stood by Wu Xiulian’s car window, “Thank you, Aunt.”

“Such a good girl.” Wu Xiulian reached out and tapped her nose, “Such a good girl, how did you become someone else’s?”

Someone else’s?

You Ruxu’s heart beat faster, thinking about these words. In the elevator, she wished she could just take the stairs, feeling that it was too slow. She wanted to see Zhou Tianzui immediately, forgetting about her coldness from last night and today. She just purely, simply, wanted to see her.

A strange and inexplicable feeling.

But very strong.

So strong that she ignored Zhou Tianzui’s coldness.

You Ruxu stood at the door, took a deep breath, and after two seconds, knocked.

Zhou Tianzui, are you there? Should she have called first? Lost in thought, the door opened. Zhou Tianzui stood there, looking at her. You Ruxu froze slightly. Zhou Tianzui’s scent was unfamiliar, making her slightly dizzy. After a couple of seconds, she finally reacted, asking, “Have you been drinking?”

The person in front of her stepped forward. Only one lamp was on in the living room, the dim light blending with the sound of rain outside, making the room feel even colder. Zhou Tianzui never drank, not since You Ruxu had known her. This was the first time she had seen her drinking. She seemed different from usual.

Zhou Tianzui looked at her and asked, “What are you doing here?”

You Ruxu’s throat tightened. She gripped the shopping bag and said, “I bought you some clothes…”

Zhou Tianzui chuckled, grabbed You Ruxu’s wrist, and pulled her into the room. The door slammed shut!

You Ruxu’s ears rang. Zhou Tianzui stepped closer, their faces close, the distance between them shrinking. Zhou Tianzui’s expression was cold, her voice icy, “Why did you buy me clothes?” She enunciated each word clearly, “To compensate me?”

Chapter 43: Red Eyes

You Ruxu sensed something was amiss with Zhou Tianzui, but since Zhou Tianzui had just received a call from the hospital, she assumed there was an emergency there. After Zhou Tianzui left, she messaged her: [What are you having for dinner?]

There was no reply. Even after You Ruxu finished dinner, You Shu watched the news on the sofa, and Wu Xiulian washed the dishes, she still hadn’t heard from Zhou Tianzui. You Ruxu couldn’t help but call her.

The call went unanswered.

You Ruxu frowned.

She was worried, even wanting to go to the hotel to check on her.

You Ruxu turned to look at the kitchen. Wu Xiulian happened to look over and, seeing her fidgeting, smiled, “What? Want to come help your mother with the dishes?”

You Ruxu put down her phone, stood up, and went into the kitchen. It was spotless. She stood by the doorway and said, “I’ll wash the dishes for you.”

“Take this chicken soup to your aunt.” Wu Xiulian said. “Call her down, she’ll say she’s busy.”

“Like a little Buddha, needing to be spoon-fed.” Wu Xiulian chuckled.

You Ruxu looked at the thermos and nodded.

She left the apartment and took the elevator. She had a key to Wu Xiulian’s apartment. She knocked, but there was no answer, so she unlocked the door and went in. The lights in the living room and bedroom were on, the TV was playing. She called out, “Aunt.”

Only the sound of running water from the bathroom.

Wu Xiulian was showering. You Ruxu sat in the living room and waited, taking out her phone, looking at the call history, then after a couple of minutes, called Zhou Tianzui again. This time, the line was busy.

So she was busy—

Just didn’t have time to answer her call or reply to her message.

Actually, Zhou Tianzui hadn’t always replied to every message before, often leaving her hanging for half a day, or replying selectively. You Ruxu thought she was used to it, but she wasn’t.

It was Zhou Tianzui’s recent change that gave her new expectations.

A pang of bitterness and a dull ache twisted in You Ruxu’s heart. She couldn’t face Zhou Tianzui with her previous mindset anymore. She was greedier, she wanted more.

That Zhou Tianzui didn’t reply to her message immediately after returning.

Made her feel aggrieved.

She hadn’t been like this before.

You Ruxu’s fingers fidgeted with her phone. Wu Xiulian came out of the bathroom, wrapped in a thick bathrobe, her wet hair piled on her head like a ball. She was applying face cream. Seeing You Ruxu, she walked over, “Xu Xu? When did you get here?”

Hearing the noise, You Ruxu turned around and said, “Just now, you were showering. My mom asked me to bring you some chicken soup.”

Wu Xiulian beamed, “Xu Xu is so sweet, truly my little darling!”

She sat next to You Ruxu and opened the thermos. The rich aroma of chicken soup wafted out. Wu Xiulian asked, “Did you make this tonight?”

You Ruxu nodded: “Yes.”

Wu Xiulian sat beside her, sipping the soup, and said, “So comforting.”

She looked at You Ruxu and asked, “What’s wrong? You look a little down.”

“I have a bit of a cold.” You Ruxu said, “I’m fine now.”

“Did you take any medicine?” Wu Xiulian said, “The weather’s crazy, raining every day, it’s freezing, you should wear more layers.”

She adjusted You Ruxu’s jacket. You Ruxu nodded, “Mm-hmm.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Your boss is interesting, making you work even though you’re on leave. You should learn to say no sometimes.”

You Ruxu said, “I know, the work is just incidental.”

“Still, don’t overwork yourself.” Wu Xiulian finished the soup and sat on the sofa, asking You Ruxu, “How many days off for New Year’s?”

You Ruxu said, “They haven’t announced it yet, probably the same as last year.”

Wu Xiulian asked, “Are you coming home?”

You Ruxu nodded. She would be going back. She hadn’t known about Wu Xiulian’s health issues before, but now that she did, she couldn’t pretend she didn’t know. She had always assumed they were healthy, You Shu being robust and exercising regularly, Wu Xiulian having annual checkups. In her mind, they were both healthy, but Wu Xiulian’s words that day made her realize they were getting old.

They were starting to need her companionship.

Wu Xiulian nodded, “That’s good. Come back and stay with your aunt, I won’t be so lonely then.”

She had been alone for many years.

You Ruxu turned and asked Wu Xiulian, “Aunt, are you afraid of being alone?”

Wu Xiulian looked at her and said, “No.”

She said, “Being with the wrong person is far more terrifying than being alone.”

You Ruxu was silent.

The wrong person.

Was she the wrong person for Zhou Tianzui?

Zhou Tianzui just put down her phone. She had used the hospital as an excuse earlier, but after returning to her room, she really did receive a call from the hospital, asking her to participate in an online meeting, which lasted two hours. She hadn’t had dinner, but she wasn’t hungry at all, her stomach feeling full and uncomfortable. She lay on the bed, motionless, then picked up her phone and saw You Ruxu’s message.

Asking what she was having for dinner.

Zhou Tianzui wanted to reply, but then she remembered Wu Xiulian’s words.

“Ruxu is like that, always willing to suffer herself rather than inconvenience others. She endures it, gets used to it, and then develops this illusion that she doesn’t mind it, even likes it.”

“Like these scallions, she might eat them for a while and think, they’re not bad. But if she doesn’t eat them for a while, she forgets that feeling of being used to them, and her body naturally rejects the taste again.”

No one knew better than Zhou Tianzui how much You Ruxu could endure.

There were many times when she thought You Ruxu would explode, get angry, yell at her, but You Ruxu would just calmly accept all of her bad temper. So, what was she?

Cilantro?

Or scallions?

She remembered the first time You Ruxu had her scallion and egg drop soup. It was the second day after they got together. You Ruxu had fallen asleep, exhausted. Zhou Tianzui lay awake, staring at the ceiling all night. She woke up early the next day. You Ruxu was still asleep. After getting dressed, she was about to leave for the hospital when she looked back at You Ruxu, still sleeping soundly, and decided to make her some egg fried rice and egg drop soup, afraid she would choke.

You Ruxu sat at the table, quietly, not saying a word.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m going to work.”

You Ruxu finally spoke. She took a bite of the fried rice, smiled at her, and said, “It’s delicious.”

Then she took a sip of the soup and said, “The soup is also very good, thank you.”

They had been intimate the night before, yet the next day, they were distant and polite. It felt strange. Now that she thought about it, had You Ruxu actually drunk the soup, or poured it away?

Every time You Ruxu had scallion and egg drop soup after that.

What was she thinking?

Zhou Tianzui held her phone and scrolled through their chat history, seeing You Ruxu’s messages.

[Zhou Tianzui.]

[I’m at my aunt’s.]

[I had some wine.]

[I might say some nonsense later.]

What nonsense?

Was it about coming back to Yuhai?

Zhou Tianzui’s expression was cold and indifferent, her face devoid of emotion. She tossed the phone aside, her hand covering her forehead, the crystal chandelier above swaying slightly. She pulled the blanket over her head, muffling her breath.

You Ruxu didn’t receive any messages from Zhou Tianzui until late at night. Lying in her familiar bed, hugging her favorite teddy bear, which still carried Zhou Tianzui’s scent, she couldn’t sleep, tossing and turning.

Why not a single call, not a single message?

You Ruxu checked her phone repeatedly, the battery draining, but the message she longed for never arrived. She woke up the next day still clutching her phone and the teddy bear. The first thing she did was check her phone, no messages.

It felt like being forced to drink ice water straight from the refrigerator.

A chilling disappointment.

She put down her phone and went to the bathroom to wash up. Wu Xiulian was making breakfast. Hearing her, she looked over and said, “Ruxu, why are you up so early? Why don’t you sleep a little longer?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m not sleeping anymore.”

“Are you busy today?” Wu Xiulian followed her and asked. You Ruxu said, “Same as yesterday.”

Wu Xiulian asked, “Then can you drive me to work?”

You Shu, hearing this, chuckled, “Are you addicted to being chauffeured?”

“What’s wrong with that?” Wu Xiulian said, “I’m happy when my daughter drives me to work.”

You Ruxu said, “Alright.”

“Good.” Wu Xiulian said, “Then I’ll leave work early today, let’s go shopping, it’s been a while since we bought any clothes, and we can get something for your father too.”

You Ruxu nodded.

She went into the bathroom. Wu Xiulian said, “By the way, Ruxu, do you know what kind of clothes Dr. Zhou likes? She brought us gifts the last two times she visited, and we haven’t given her anything in return.”

You Ruxu thought of Zhou Tianzui, who seemed to like a particular niche brand, always checking for new arrivals. She said, “We’ll talk about it later.”

Wu Xiulian chuckled, “Okay, you go ahead.”

After washing up, You Ruxu had breakfast with Wu Xiulian and You Shu, then drove Wu Xiulian to the university. Finally, she drove to the summit venue. She was later than yesterday and didn’t know if Zhou Tianzui was still at the hotel. Just as she reached the hotel entrance, about to call Zhou Tianzui, she saw a familiar figure.

Zhou Tianzui walked out of the hotel, carrying her laptop bag, wearing a checkered jacket, brown pants, and high heels. She rarely wore high heels. There were only two pairs in her shoe cabinet at home, barely worn throughout the year. But high heels looked particularly good on her, elongating her legs, accentuating their slenderness, the taut muscles giving her a sharp and capable look. She walked towards the venue, her heels clicking against the pavement. Just as You Ruxu was about to roll down the window and call out to her, she saw Han Shuang walking beside Zhou Tianzui.

She pursed her lips and followed them at a leisurely pace.

The hotel wasn’t far from the venue, about a fifteen-minute walk. Zhou Tianzui and Han Shuang were talking as they walked, their topic unknown. Han Shuang was smiling, while Zhou Tianzui’s expression was calm and indifferent. They soon entered the hall.

You Ruxu sat in the car for a while before getting out and carrying her equipment inside.

Han Shuang was sitting in the same spot as yesterday. Seeing her, she waved, “Ruxu!”

You Ruxu lowered her head and walked over.

Han Shuang said, “I left early yesterday, but I asked Dr. Zhou to say goodbye to you.”

You Ruxu said, “Yes, she told me.”

Han Shuang smiled, “I also ran into Dr. Zhou at breakfast this morning.” She leaned closer to You Ruxu, grinning, “She’s quite popular, several men asked for her contact information.”

“I’m so envious of beauties like you, from university until now, I can count the number of times I’ve been approached on one hand!”

You Ruxu’s mood soured. She glanced in Zhou Tianzui’s direction. Zhou Tianzui’s back was to her, talking to a doctor beside her, their topic unknown. Everyone around them was laughing, including Zhou Tianzui.

That smile was particularly jarring, like a sharp spike piercing her heart.

A crack appeared, the recent moments with Zhou Tianzui now seeming like a mirage. Her restless night, her worry and anxiety, all amplified by Zhou Tianzui’s casual smile.

An unprecedented sense of distance washed over her, suffocating her.

She heard Han Shuang ask, “Hey, are you busy tomorrow?”

You Ruxu snapped back to reality, “What?”

“Tomorrow.” Han Shuang said, “Didn’t you schedule Dr. Zhou’s interview for tomorrow? She said you’re busy, so I moved my interview to tomorrow…”

You Ruxu’s ears buzzed, Han Shuang’s voice fading in and out.

The tightness in her chest intensified.

She lowered her head.

Her eyes were red.

Chapter 42: Debasing Herself

You Ruxu drove. She hadn’t even had time to drop off her backpack at the hotel. Zhou Tianzui followed her downstairs and into the car. It felt like a reckless adventure. You Ruxu hadn’t done anything like this before. Her heart pounded erratically, trembling with every honk of the car horns outside, her jaw tense as she stared straight ahead.

Zhou Tianzui, seeing her driving, asked, “Do you want me to drive?”

“No.” You Ruxu said, “This car is quite old, you might not be used to it.”

The car moved slowly, swaying slightly. As they neared her home, Zhou Tianzui got out to buy some fruit. You Ruxu waited in the car, her eyes fixed on her phone. Just as Zhou Tianzui was paying, she called Wu Xiulian.

Wu Xiulian’s voice was cheerful, “Ruxu, are you back?”

“Almost home.” You Ruxu said, “Mom, I’m bringing Zhou Tianzui home for dinner.”

She knew this would upset Wu Xiulian, that she might be scolded, told not to come home, or even have the phone hung up on her. But Wu Xiulian did none of those things, her voice still cheerful, “Oh, Dr. Zhou is coming with you? That’s great, I made extra food today. Be careful on the way.”

You Ruxu breathed a sigh of relief, “Mom…”

“Are you still driving? Be careful.” Wu Xiulian said, “You’re distracted by the phone call.”

You Ruxu said, “I know, Mom.” She couldn’t help but add, “Thank you, Mom.”

Wu Xiulian chuckled through the phone, “You’re my daughter, what’s there to thank me for? By the way, Professor Li came to my office today, you know, your Uncle Li, his daughter works at the TV station. I thought it would be good for you to have more connections if you come back to Yuhai, even if you don’t come back, having more contacts in the news industry isn’t a bad thing, right?”

You Ruxu said, “Mm-hmm.”

“Then I’ll ask her to add you.” Wu Xiulian said, “Accept her friend request.”

You Ruxu hung up and saw a new friend request on WeChat. She figured this was Uncle Li’s daughter and accepted the request. The other person quickly sent a smiley emoji, asking, [You Ruxu? I’ve seen your reports, you’re very impressive.]

You Ruxu replied: [Thank you.]

Li: [Let me know if you need anything, our TV station might be different from Jindu’s.]

Zhou Tianzui opened the passenger door, carrying the fruit. You Ruxu didn’t reply, placing her phone under the center console. They soon arrived. You Ruxu got out of the car and took the fruit from Zhou Tianzui.

It was Wu Xiulian who opened the door. Just like the first time they met, her attitude was very welcoming. Zhou Tianzui looked at You Ruxu, then at Wu Xiulian, and called out with a smile, “Auntie.”

“Why did you buy more things?” Wu Xiulian said, “Don’t do this next time. You’re Ruxu’s friend, we should be the ones taking care of you.”

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

Wu Xiulian said, “Ruxu, there’s some freshly cut fruit in the kitchen, bring some out for Dr. Zhou.”

Zhou Tianzui sat on the sofa. You Ruxu put down her bag and keys and went to the kitchen. Her phone lit up; it was right next to the keys. Zhou Tianzui could see the WeChat notification with a glance.

Li: [Auntie said you’re thinking of coming back to Yuhai. This is our TV station’s recent recruitment plan, if you’re interested in any of these positions, just let me know.]

It was a long message, only partially displayed, but Zhou Tianzui could guess the rest of the content. She pursed her lips and saw You Ruxu walking over with a plate of fruit, handing her a fork. Zhou Tianzui’s throat tightened slightly. She took a bite of the fruit.

Just as You Ruxu was about to speak, Wu Xiulian said, “Ruxu, go pick up your father, it’s raining, it’s not convenient for him to take a taxi.”

She handed You Ruxu the car keys.

You Ruxu: “Okay.”

She looked at Zhou Tianzui and whispered, “Then wait here for a bit, I’ll be right back.”

Zhou Tianzui swallowed the slightly sour apple and nodded.

After she left, the living room was quiet. Wu Xiulian said, “Dr. Zhou, have a seat, I’ll make a couple more dishes.”

Zhou Tianzui stood up, “Let me help you.”

Wu Xiulian didn’t refuse, smiling, “Alright, do you enjoy cooking, Dr. Zhou?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I do, whenever I have time. Auntie, you can call me Xiao Tian.”

“Alright.” Wu Xiulian was still smiling, her expression unreadable. She said, “Thank you for taking care of Ruxu these past two years, we haven’t properly thanked you yet. Now that you’re here in Yuhai, come over for dinner whenever you’re free.”

She added, “And come visit us when you’re in Yuhai in the future.”

Her tone was warm and welcoming, treating Zhou Tianzui like a younger relative. Zhou Tianzui smiled, “I wouldn’t want to impose.”

“It’s not an imposition at all.” Wu Xiulian said, “It’s just the two of us at home usually, we’d love to have more visitors. But it’s good, Ruxu said she’s considering transferring back.”

Zhou Tianzui’s hand paused as she was washing vegetables, the water flowing over her hand, cold against her skin. She lowered her head, “Transferring back?”

“Yes.” Wu Xiulian said, “Ruxu has always been obedient, never causing us any trouble, but being alone out there isn’t as good as being at home. Xiao Tian, you live with your mother, you should understand, right?”

Zhou Tianzui looked down at the vegetables in her hand and said, “I understand.”

“Ruxu is lucky to have found such a good roommate in Jindu.” Wu Xiulian said, “Don’t hesitate to ask your uncle and me for help if you need anything.”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t reply.

Wu Xiulian took out some leafy greens from the grocery bag, a bunch of scallions underneath. She casually tossed the scallions into the trash can. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Auntie, is there something wrong with the scallions?”

“Nothing wrong.” Wu Xiulian said, “They came with the groceries, but you know Ruxu doesn’t like scallions, and neither does her father, so we never use them in our cooking.”

Zhou Tianzui frowned, “She doesn’t like scallions?”

“That’s right.” Wu Xiulian chuckled, “Didn’t Ruxu tell you?”

She shook her head, “That child, always keeping things to herself.”

Zhou Tianzui froze.

Wu Xiulian continued, “Back in junior high, we weren’t home, so she stayed at her aunt’s for a few days. Her aunt didn’t know she didn’t like cilantro and would add a handful to her noodles every morning. Ruxu didn’t say anything, just secretly picked out the cilantro and threw it away. Later, when her aunt had breakfast with her, she forced herself to eat it. Guess what she said when we came back?”

Zhou Tianzui’s fingertips were cold. She looked at Wu Xiulian, “What did she say?”

“When we came back, she said, ‘Mom, cilantro isn’t actually that bad.’” Wu Xiulian said, “Ruxu is like that, always willing to suffer herself rather than inconvenience others. She endures it, gets used to it, and then develops this illusion that she doesn’t mind it, even likes it.”

Wu Xiulian took the scallions out of the trash can, looked at Zhou Tianzui, and said, “Like these scallions, she might eat them for a while and think, they’re not bad. But if she doesn’t eat them for a while, she forgets that feeling of being used to them, and her body naturally rejects the taste again.”

She said, “If she doesn’t like it, she doesn’t like it. She only forces herself to accept it out of guilt, not because she likes it.”

Zhou Tianzui felt a pang in her heart, her face paling as she looked at Wu Xiulian.

Wu Xiulian looked at her steadily, her gaze gentle, yet seeming to see through her pretense. Zhou Tianzui moistened her lips and asked, “Did she ask you to tell me this?”

So bringing her home today was to end things?

How amusing.

She had thought—

Wu Xiulian said, “Whose idea…”

“If it’s her idea, let her tell me herself.” Zhou Tianzui said, trying to maintain her composure, her hands clenching at her sides. Wu Xiulian said, “You know Ruxu’s personality, she’s only nice to you because she’s enduring…”

“Then let her endure it!” Zhou Tianzui blurted out.

Wu Xiulian said, “She’s endured it for three years, isn’t that enough? How many more years do you want her to endure? Thirty years? She was just a child back then, a child with no power, her words couldn’t even be used as evidence, no one could convict her, she’s the one who can’t get over it.”

But coming back this time, it seemed she was finally moving on.

Wu Xiulian was relieved. She looked at Zhou Tianzui, her voice still gentle, “Dr. Zhou, I know Ruxu has wronged your family, she owes you, and her father and I will repay you, but I don’t want Ruxu to make amends this way. She can choose not to be in a relationship, we won’t force her, but we won’t stand by and watch her debase herself.”

Debase herself?

So being with her was debasing herself?

Zhou Tianzui wanted to retort, but seeing the scallions on the trash can, she suddenly understood. Wasn’t it debasing herself, forcing herself to eat food she didn’t like for so long, sleeping with someone she didn’t love?

It truly was debasing.

The sound of the door opening came from behind. You Ruxu said to You Shu, “Dad, you should bring an extra umbrella next time.”

“I know.” You Shu chuckled. “I’ll remember next time.”

Wu Xiulian emerged from the kitchen and said, “Look at you, so pleased with yourself, your daughter personally picked you up from work, happy now?”

You Shu said, “Of course I’m happy.”

The family was happy and harmonious. You Ruxu listened to her parents’ conversation with a smile and asked Wu Xiulian, “Where’s Zhou Tianzui?”

“In the kitchen.” Wu Xiulian said, “Such a good child, even helping me with the cooking.”

Her tone was warm and gentle. Zhou Tianzui, in the kitchen, listening to their conversation, looked down and saw the trash can. She closed her eyes and made a phone call before You Ruxu entered.

You Ruxu, seeing her on the phone, didn’t interrupt. Zhou Tianzui’s voice was low, “When? You need it now? Okay, I understand, I’ll send it to you later.”

After hanging up, Zhou Tianzui said, “It was the hospital.”

You Ruxu said, “Oh, then…”

“I’m not eating.” Zhou Tianzui interrupted her. You Ruxu nodded: “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui excused herself and said goodbye to Wu Xiulian and You Shu. Wu Xiulian didn’t say much, just told her to be careful. Zhou Tianzui glanced at Wu Xiulian and left the You family’s apartment.

You Ruxu wanted to walk her downstairs. The elevator arrived. Zhou Tianzui stepped inside and said to You Ruxu, “Go back.”

“I’ll walk you downstairs.”

Zhou Tianzui’s expression remained unchanged, she just pressed the close button and said to You Ruxu, “No need.”

Then the elevator doors closed.

You Ruxu stood outside the elevator.

Chapter 41: Going Home

It had been a long time since You Ruxu had a cold. She was usually healthy, with a regular exercise routine at the TV station, her physique better than most. But when illness struck, it hit hard. Despite taking medicine, she still felt weak and listless. Zhou Tianzui, after kissing her for a while, seeing that she was on the verge of falling asleep, said, “Go to sleep, I’ll wake you at 1:30.”

She lay down beside her. You Ruxu, smelling the familiar scent, felt completely at ease. Her previous restlessness vanished, replaced by a wave of drowsiness. She hugged Zhou Tianzui and fell into a deep sleep.

Zhou Tianzui looked down at You Ruxu’s sleeping face, remembering the doctor sitting next to her saying, “You Ruxu, she’s transferring back to Yuhai.”

She took You Ruxu’s hand, gently pinching her fingers, then tracing the lines on her palm with her fingertip.

You Ruxu’s palm tickled. She looked up at the woman in front of her, “Mom, what are you doing?”

“Reading our A Ran’s fortune.” The woman’s smile was gentle. “A Ran, look, this is your career line, it’s very long, which means you’ll achieve great things in the future.”

She didn’t understand: “What are great things?”

“It means you’ll become a very, very successful person.” The woman smiled, “You’ll earn lots and lots of money.”

“Then can A Ran live with Mommy forever?” She was young, didn’t quite understand what “earning money” meant, only knowing it was a good thing. “Can we not live with Daddy?”

“Doesn’t A Ran like Daddy?” The woman asked. She shook her head, “No, I don’t like him, not at all. He hits A Ran, he also hits Mommy, A Ran hurts, Mommy also hurts.”

“Mommy’s not hurt.” The woman held her close, “Mommy’s not hurt at all. Mommy won’t let him hit A Ran again.”

She buried her face in the woman’s embrace, “Really?”

The woman nodded, “Really.”

True to her word, from that day on, she never saw that man again, because her mother took her away. They moved from place to place, finally settling down in Jindu. She was terrified of men, all men, disgusted and repulsed by them. In her young mind, all men were devils.

This devil lurked in the depths of her heart, waiting for an opportunity to consume her, to turn her into a devil as well.

You Ruxu woke up with a start. It was 1:20. The alarm hadn’t gone off yet. Her forehead was covered in sweat, either from the dream or from her cold. Zhou Tianzui was lying beside her, eyes closed, seemingly resting. You Ruxu moved her hand and realized it was being held by Zhou Tianzui. Zhou Tianzui’s palm was warm, unlike her usual cool demeanor, a comforting warmth she was drawn to.

She carefully withdrew her hand, looking at Zhou Tianzui’s features, her lips. Sometimes, she really wished she could just silence her.

You Ruxu’s finger traced Zhou Tianzui’s lips, their color a soft red. She knew Zhou Tianzui was a light sleeper and would probably wake up soon, so she moved her hand, placing it on Zhou Tianzui’s waist, and snuggled closer, burying her face in Zhou Tianzui’s embrace, inhaling the familiar scent of disinfectant.

Zhou Tianzui’s neck tickled from You Ruxu’s hair. Half-asleep, she brushed it away, her eyes opening only when her fingers tangled in the soft strands. You Ruxu’s hair was tickling her chin, no wonder.

She called out, “A Ran?”

You Ruxu didn’t reply, just nestled against her, like when she was young, burying her face in her mother’s embrace, only to be pulled away, her mother saying, “A Ran is being naughty, ignoring Mommy even when I call her.”

Zhou Tianzui wouldn’t say such things, You Ruxu knew. She just suddenly didn’t want to move, didn’t want to break the spell with a single sound.

She closed her eyes, tears welling up. The alarm rang. Zhou Tianzui turned off the insistent ringing and looked down: “A Ran?”

You Ruxu replied, “Mm.”

Her voice wasn’t as clear as usual.

You Ruxu sat up, the redness in her eyes too obvious. Zhou Tianzui asked, “What’s wrong?”

“I had a dream.” You Ruxu got out of bed, her tone casual, “I dreamt about my mom.”

Zhou Tianzui’s grip on the blanket tightened. She looked at You Ruxu, who went into the bathroom. The room felt empty, only Zhou Tianzui remained, and the sound of her suddenly rapid heartbeat, then gradually calming down.

She got out of bed and followed You Ruxu into the bathroom. You Ruxu was washing her face. She stood beside her and started brushing her teeth. You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui through the mirror. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Is your cold better?”

You Ruxu nodded: “It’s gone.” She turned to Zhou Tianzui, “Zhou Tianzui.”

As if knowing what she was about to say, Zhou Tianzui said, “Brush your teeth.”

You Ruxu lowered her eyes and smiled faintly.

You Ruxu felt much better in the afternoon. Han Shuang arrived with the cameraman, yawning, and asked, “Ruxu, why do you look so radiant? Did you go to a spa?”

You Ruxu said, “No.”

“Yes, you did.” Han Shuang said, “If you weren’t single, I would definitely think you’re glowing from love, look at how energetic you are!”

You Ruxu pursed her lips and smiled at her.

Han Shuang said, “Hey, Ruxu, there’s a party tonight, want to go? Lots of handsome guys!”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll pass.” Before Han Shuang could ask why, she added, “I have someone I like.”

“Oh really!” Han Shuang asked, “Who is it, who is it?”

She added, “Wedding bells soon, I presume?”

In her opinion, there was no one You Ruxu couldn’t win over. You Ruxu, however, didn’t elaborate, just smiled again.

Han Shuang didn’t pry further. Firstly, they hadn’t been in contact for a long time. Secondly, it was You Ruxu’s personal life. Given You Ruxu’s personality, it was a big deal for her to even reveal she liked someone, showing she considered Han Shuang a friend. Asking more would be overstepping. So, she suppressed her curiosity and asked, “Are you still going back to Jindu?”

You Ruxu thought for a moment, then nodded.

The afternoon session was longer than the morning’s. Han Shuang and several other reporters were dozing off. People occasionally walked past You Ruxu, asking, “Is it over yet?”

You Ruxu was also sleepy. She glanced at the time, it was 5:30 pm. They had only had a ten-minute break all afternoon. She looked at Zhou Tianzui, whose expression was calm and natural, no signs of fatigue after sitting for so long. She composed herself, stepped out to call Shi Qi and give her a report, and by the time she returned, the session was over. Zhou Tianzui was now sitting by her equipment, instead of Han Shuang, occasionally being greeted by people and invited to dinner. Zhou Tianzui would say, “You go ahead, I’m waiting for someone.”

You Ruxu walked over and asked, “Where’s Han Shuang?”

“Her boss called her over.” Zhou Tianzui said, “She asked me to let you know.”

You Ruxu nodded, took the equipment that Zhou Tianzui had organized, and put on the backpack. Zhou Tianzui took the other backpack and asked, “What are we doing for dinner?”

“I…” You Ruxu started to speak, but her phone rang. She looked at the caller ID, it was her mother. She glanced at Zhou Tianzui and answered the call: “Mom.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Ruxu, are you done? What time are you coming home for dinner?”

You Ruxu said, “Just finished, I’ll be back soon.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Good, I bought several of your favorite dishes today, I’ll cook them for you tonight.”

You Ruxu agreed. Wu Xiulian added, “By the way, it’s going to rain tonight, you didn’t take an umbrella this morning, be careful, don’t get wet.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay.”

Then she hung up.

You Ruxu said, “It was my mom.”

Zhou Tianzui lowered her head, “Let’s go.”

Her tone was indifferent, neither happy nor unhappy. You Ruxu looked at her. It was indeed drizzling outside. Zhou Tianzui’s hotel was nearby, so they didn’t bother with umbrellas, just walked under the awnings of the shops along the street. The drizzle created a misty atmosphere. The shops were lit with warm, orange lights, glowing through the rain. You Ruxu felt as if they were on a date.

They rarely strolled like this in Jindu. Zhou Tianzui was busy at the hospital, and when she had free time, You Ruxu would be busy, their schedules never aligning. Also, their mindset back then was different from now.

You Ruxu lowered her gaze, her eyes falling on Zhou Tianzui’s hand at her side. Her hand was fair, slender, with long, elegant fingers, a beautiful hand, perfect for holding.

The rain hastened the arrival of winter, the sky darkening early. You Ruxu walked beside Zhou Tianzui, her fingers curling and then slowly unfurling.

She wanted to take advantage of the atmosphere and hold Zhou Tianzui’s hand.

Her fingers cautiously reached out, but before they touched Zhou Tianzui, she heard her say, “Come closer.”

You Ruxu withdrew her hand and turned, “Hmm?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “You’re getting wet.”

You Ruxu looked at her shoulder; it was indeed slightly damp. She moved closer to Zhou Tianzui. Her previously racing heartbeat calmed down slightly, a secret signal, a sweet and inexplicable feeling.

They soon reached the hotel.

You Ruxu’s car was parked on the second basement level. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Going back for dinner?”

The sweetness turned slightly bitter. You Ruxu nodded, “My mom asked me to go home for dinner.”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t speak. A couple was waiting for the elevator beside them, whispering sweet nothings, calling each other “baby” and “honey.” They entered the elevator, arms around each other. You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui followed, standing behind them.

“Didn’t you say you were working overtime tonight?” The woman asked. The man said, “Not anymore, you’re more important.”

The woman beamed.

They got off on the eighth floor. When the elevator doors closed again, only You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui remained. The atmosphere became strangely charged. You Ruxu pursed her lips, watching the floor numbers light up as the elevator ascended. Reaching the thirteenth floor, a strange feeling arose in her heart.

Like anticipation.

Anticipating that Zhou Tianzui would say something.

But Zhou Tianzui remained silent, just reaching out and saying, “Give me your bag.”

You Ruxu’s chest felt tight. She handed the equipment bag to Zhou Tianzui. Zhou Tianzui said, “Then you go back early.”

You Ruxu said, “I know.”

She glanced at Zhou Tianzui and turned to walk back to the elevators. Another elevator arrived, carrying several people. She stepped inside and pressed the button for the second basement level.

One floor, two floors…You Ruxu suddenly pressed another button. When they reached the tenth floor, she got out, saw another elevator still on the first floor, and without hesitation, entered the stairwell beside the elevators.

Zhou Tianzui, watching You Ruxu enter the elevator, stood by the door for two minutes. Just as she turned to open her door, she heard someone call, “Zhou Tianzui.”

You Ruxu’s voice was slightly breathless, her face flushed from climbing the stairs, her eyes bright. She walked quickly towards Zhou Tianzui and said, slightly out of breath, “Zhou Tianzui, let’s go home for dinner together.”

---

---

---

Zhou Tianzui: Teacher You, don’t do this.
You Ruxu: Do what?
Zhou Tianzui: This makes my heart race.
You Ruxu: …

A small theater featuring Dr. Zhou speaking human language.

Chapter 40: Contagious

You Ruxu didn’t hang up until the summit started. Her phone felt warm to the touch. She put it away. Han Shuang, beside her, asked, “Something going on?”

You Ruxu turned to look at her, didn’t speak, just smiled.

Han Shuang said, “Ruxu, aren’t you planning to come back to Yuhai? I actually quite envy you.”

You Ruxu asked, “Envy me for what?”

“Envy you for working elsewhere.” Han Shuang said, “Remember how we all talked about wanting to work in other cities after graduation?”

Back then, as roommates, they would discuss their future career paths. You Ruxu’s plan had never changed, she had always intended to go to Jindu after graduation. At that time, Han Shuang had also said she wanted to leave Yuhai.

You Ruxu nodded, “I remember, why didn’t you go?”

“My grandmother fell ill in my second year after graduation.” Han Shuang said, “I was covering a story at the time, gone for a week. By the time I came back, my grandmother had already passed away.”

Han Shuang sighed, “My parents didn’t say anything directly, but they wanted me to come back, especially my mother. She even had surgery without telling me. I went to the hospital and saw them having dinner in her ward.” Han Shuang chuckled. “Not exaggerating, I burst into tears right then and there. I came back after that.”

You Ruxu nodded.

Han Shuang said, “So I really envy you, for being able to stick to your goals.”

You Ruxu was silent for a moment, looking towards the hall where Zhou Tianzui was sitting, looking up at the large screen displaying medical cases. Her throat itched, and she coughed twice, saying to Han Shuang, “I’m going out for a bit.”

Han Shuang offered to watch her equipment: “Go ahead.”

You Ruxu walked out and bought some cold medicine at a nearby pharmacy, then got a cup of hot water from a convenience store. She sat on a bench outside the store, took the medicine, and received a message from Wu Xiulian.

[Ruxu, when will you be done? Coming home for lunch?]

You Ruxu replied: [Not coming home for lunch, ran into Han Shuang, having lunch with everyone.]

Wu Xiulian replied: [Okay, then I won’t come home for lunch either, we’ll talk tonight.]

You Ruxu held her phone, sat quietly for a while, then returned to the hall. Han Shuang saw her and moved over slightly, making space for You Ruxu to sit down. You Ruxu, having taken the medicine, felt a little sleepy. It felt like those open lectures in university. Han Shuang, who loved to chat, started gossiping, from their other two roommates’ lives, relationships, and marriages, to gossip about their university professors. You Ruxu rarely kept in touch with her classmates, so hearing Han Shuang ask, “Didn’t know about that, did you?”

She honestly replied, “No.”

It greatly satisfied Han Shuang’s desire to share gossip. Han Shuang then said, “I’ll tell you more later, I have to go talk to my boss, she just called me.”

You Ruxu watched her leave, slipping through the crowd to the other side, and looked down at the camera. She picked it up, looked through the lens, her gaze finally landing on Zhou Tianzui’s profile.

Zhou Tianzui was listening to the male doctor beside her, her expression serious, her profile sharp and defined, her eyes blinking and lowering occasionally, her focused attention captivating. You Ruxu forgot to move the camera, her gaze fixed on Zhou Tianzui through the lens.

Lost in thought, Zhou Tianzui suddenly turned and looked directly at the camera. You Ruxu could almost hear her voice: “Teacher You, what are you looking at?”

She clutched her suddenly racing heart and moved the camera away.

At eleven o’clock, the summit ended, and people streamed out of the hall. Zhou Tianzui, looking for You Ruxu, saw two people trying to get her contact information. She called out, “You Ruxu.”

You Ruxu looked up, excused herself from the conversation, and walked over to Zhou Tianzui. Han Shuang joined them, “Dr. Zhou, Ruxu, I’m treating, let’s have lunch together.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at You Ruxu. Seeing her remain silent, she said, “Okay, thank you, Ms. Han.”

“Don’t mention it, I had a lot I wanted to talk to Ruxu about anyway.” Han Shuang grinned, “What a coincidence.”

They also invited another doctor, someone You Ruxu recognized, the deputy director of obstetrics at the city hospital, who had been sitting in the front row. Han Shuang said, “This is my cousin, and this is Dr. Zhou.”

Zhou Tianzui greeted her. The four of them walked towards the restaurant. On the way, Han Shuang and Zhou Tianzui discussed the interview schedule. Zhou Tianzui asked You Ruxu, “When are you free?”

You Ruxu looked at her, “What?”

“When are you free for the interview?” Zhou Tianzui asked. You Ruxu paused. The team had originally wanted her to conduct the interview, but she hadn’t decided on the topic yet, so she hadn’t signed up. Now, being asked by Zhou Tianzui, she figured Zhou Tianzui wanted to make time for her. You Ruxu thought for a few seconds and said, “The day after tomorrow.”

“Alright.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Then besides the day after tomorrow, Ms. Han, please finalize the other times and confirm with me.”

Han Shuang was amazed.

Was this the special treatment friends received? Not only prioritized, but also no restrictions on time. She suddenly wished she had a friend like this! Just for this special treatment alone!

She agreed: “Okay, I’ll contact you, Dr. Zhou, after I finalize the schedule.”

She took out her phone, “Dr. Zhou…”

Zhou Tianzui said, “My contact information? Teacher You can give it to you.”

Han Shuang asked You Ruxu, “Ruxu, are you still using your old WeChat account?”

Old WeChat account.

It meant they hadn’t been in contact for a while, at least not in the past two years. Zhou Tianzui lowered her eyes, hiding her pleasure. You Ruxu said, “Yes, I am.”

Han Shuang successfully added Zhou Tianzui on WeChat.

Zhou Tianzui discussed today’s medical cases with the other doctor, which angles would be better for the interview. You Ruxu, beside them, listening to the medical jargon she didn’t understand, felt even more dizzy.

Han Shuang had reserved a small booth. You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui sat together, while she sat with the deputy director, saying, “Looking at three beauties, I suddenly have more of an appetite.”

The deputy director was three years older than them, wearing a light blue jacket, her long hair curled, exuding a natural warmth, completely different from Zhou Tianzui. Her smile was gentle. She looked at Han Shuang and said, “Don’t tease me, it’s the three of you who are the beauties.”

“Not at all.” Han Shuang said coquettishly, “Cousin is the most beautiful!”

She often consulted her cousin on medical topics, so they kept in close contact, and her tone was casual. Zhou Tianzui, across the table, said, “Ms. Han and Dr. Wei have such a good relationship.”

“Of course.” Han Shuang said, “By the way, I heard from Ruxu that you two live together in Jindu, you must be close as well.”

Zhou Tianzui turned to look at You Ruxu and said, “We are, aren’t we, Teacher You?”

You Ruxu, under the gaze of three pairs of eyes, pursed her lips, “Yes.”

Han Shuang said, “I’m quite surprised, back in university, we said that if there were single rooms, Ruxu would definitely apply, she doesn’t like crowds. How did you two end up living together?”

You Ruxu said, “The location is close to work, and we can take care of each other.”

Han Shuang nodded, “That makes sense, but your personality hasn’t changed much.”

Still gentle and unassuming. But she had seen You Ruxu’s interviews, the sharp and perceptive way she pursued questions was completely different from now. You Ruxu at work was a different person from You Ruxu in private.

They enjoyed their lunch. Han Shuang invited them to a bar for drinks later, but You Ruxu said, “I’ll pass, I have a cold and took some medicine.”

“Then you can’t drink.” Han Shuang asked, “What about you, Dr. Zhou?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I don’t drink.”

Han Shuang, failing to persuade them, sighed and said, “Then let’s get together another time.”

They parted ways after lunch. They returned to the summit venue at 2:30 pm. During a break, Zhou Tianzui and You Ruxu came out of the hall. Zhou Tianzui asked, “You have a cold?”

You Ruxu nodded, showing her the medicine packet. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Since when?”

“I had a headache when I woke up this morning.” You Ruxu said, “I probably caught a chill yesterday.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

You Ruxu paused and said, “It’s not a big deal.”

Zhou Tianzui just looked at her, not speaking, her brow slightly furrowed. You Ruxu, noticing her gaze, said, “I’ll tell you next time.”

Zhou Tianzui pulled her wrist and started walking. You Ruxu asked, “Where are we going?”

“Where else?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Back to the room to rest.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips, looking at Zhou Tianzui’s hand holding hers. Her fingers were long and slender, her grip firm but not painful, You Ruxu couldn’t break free. She followed Zhou Tianzui willingly back to her hotel room. Inside, Zhou Tianzui turned up the heat, poured her a glass of warm water, and asked, “Did you take your medicine?”

“Not yet.” You Ruxu took the medicine out of her bag. Zhou Tianzui put down the glass of water, looked at the medicine, then handed it back to her. You Ruxu took a pill and swallowed it with the warm water. Zhou Tianzui took a blanket from the closet, walked over to the sofa, and asked You Ruxu, “Do you want to take a nap?”

Colds made one sleepy, and the medicine made one even sleepier. You Ruxu said, “I’ll just lie down for a bit…”

Before she could finish, Zhou Tianzui pulled her to the bed, made her lie down, and You Ruxu finally felt like a patient. Zhou Tianzui tucked her in. Her phone rang. She glanced at it and said, “It’s the hospital, you go to sleep.”

You Ruxu snuggled under the blanket, feeling weak and tired. She heard Zhou Tianzui ask into the phone, “Which patient? Number eleven? Number eleven’s current condition requires termination of pregnancy. I already discussed this with her husband…”

Zhou Tianzui glanced at You Ruxu and walked over to the window to continue the call, lowering her voice. You Ruxu drifted in and out of sleep, her eyes closing and opening repeatedly. Zhou Tianzui finished the call and returned to the bed. Seeing You Ruxu’s eyes still half-open, she asked, “Why aren’t you sleeping?”

Then, remembering You Ruxu’s habits, she asked, “Can’t sleep in unfamiliar beds?”

You Ruxu did have trouble sleeping in unfamiliar beds. She always brought her teddy bear when traveling. Today, she didn’t have it, and neither was Zhou Tianzui with her. She tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Hearing Zhou Tianzui’s question, she said, “I’m not sleepy yet.”

She wanted to yawn, but having just said she wasn’t sleepy, she suppressed it, her eyes watering slightly. Zhou Tianzui took off her jacket, got under the blanket, and lay down beside her, pulling You Ruxu’s wrist to make her lie down properly. You Ruxu couldn’t help but snuggle closer, a slight movement. Zhou Tianzui noticed and interlaced her fingers with You Ruxu’s, their palms touching. You Ruxu’s palms were sweaty and warm. She looked up at Zhou Tianzui, about to speak, when Zhou Tianzui leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips.

You Ruxu instinctively tightened her grip, catching Zhou Tianzui’s fingers in hers, their palms pressing closer. She called out, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Zhou Tianzui’s other hand slipped out from under the blanket, moving from You Ruxu’s side to her neck, then to her ear. The earring felt cold against her skin, a stark contrast to Zhou Tianzui’s warm fingertips. You Ruxu’s cold earlobe felt as if it was submerged in hot water, the warmth spreading to her cheeks, making her blush.

Zhou Tianzui, hearing her call her name, asked, “What’s wrong?”

You Ruxu said, “Don’t kiss me.”

She pursed her lips, “I have a cold.”

“I know.” Zhou Tianzui lowered her head, and just before kissing You Ruxu again, said, “Give it to me.”

Author’s Note:

Don’t forget to check in after reading, mwah!

You Ruxu: You’re not being a good girl.
Zhou Tianzui: Good girls don’t get kisses.

Promoting my friend’s new novel, please add it to your collection if you like it! [Provoke] – Niqian

Tang Yin was having fun with her friends at a bar. Having lost a game, she was dared to ask a stranger for a kiss. Finding someone she liked, she swayed over, “Beautiful, could you do me a favor…”

The woman suddenly turned around, her stunning features illuminated by the lights, her eyes cool and clear, staring directly at her.

Tang Yin’s heart skipped a beat.

What the hell, why did this woman look so much like her wife who “disappeared” two years ago and hadn’t come home???

She took a closer look.

The woman’s lips parted slightly, calling out her name precisely, “Tang Yin.”

“…”

It really was her estranged wife, Gu Shenyi!

“Why are you back?!”

Gu Shenyi’s expression was calm, her voice betraying no emotion: “If I don’t come back, are you just going to cheat on me?”

The estranged couple had no affection for each other, tacitly pretending not to know each other when they were both at the company.

After work, Gu Shenyi called her into her office.

Tang Yin’s fox eyes shimmered with a seductive glint, her voice sweet and cloying, “Director Gu, is something the matter?”

Gu Shenyi pinned her against the desk, her cool fingers gripping Tang Yin’s chin, her voice low and questioning, “Were you flirting with that handsome young man again?”

Tang Yin’s expression changed instantly, “What do you mean flirting? We were just having a friendly chat between colleagues, don’t slander me…mmmph.”

Her words were cut short.

And such incidents, using work as an excuse for secret rendezvous, were far from uncommon…

Tang Yin, at twenty-four years old, having frequented countless bars and nightclubs, and having met countless people, doubted her judgment for the first time.

How could she have been so foolish as to provoke Gu Shenyi?

The first time she saw Gu Shenyi, she had thought she was a serious person, hence her own boldness, never expecting to be completely deceived by her appearance.

Chapter 39: Don’t Hang Up

You Ruxu slept in late the next day, waking with a slight headache. She hadn’t been exposed to the wind or cold, yet she felt the onset of a cold, her throat hoarse, coughing after just a few words. Wu Xiulian, hearing her cough, peeled a pear for her, telling her to eat it after breakfast. You Shu wasn’t home. You Ruxu asked Wu Xiulian, “Mom, aren’t you going to the university today?”

“I am.” Wu Xiulian said, “You’re coming with me.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay.”

She finished breakfast and the pear, took Wu Xiulian’s car keys. It was their old family car, seven or eight years old. Wu Xiulian had wanted to sell it and buy You Ruxu a new car for commuting after she graduated, but You Ruxu insisted on going to Jindu, so they didn’t change cars. The car was an older model, and You Ruxu wasn’t used to driving it, so she drove slowly. She drove Wu Xiulian to the university and walked with her after parking.

As soon as they got out of the car, a senior professor greeted Wu Xiulian and, seeing You Ruxu, said, “Oh, it’s Ruxu, isn’t it? Still as beautiful as ever.”

Wu Xiulian smiled, “This is our Ruxu. Have you greeted your aunt yet?”

You Ruxu greeted the professor and listened to her mother and the professor chat. Back when she was in school, she would always go to Wu Xiulian’s office after class and wait for her to finish work, so she always got good grades on her homework, every subject checked by a professor. You Ruxu knew them all. The professor, seeing You Ruxu, asked Wu Xiulian, “Ruxu should be dating someone now, shouldn’t she?”

Wu Xiulian said, “No.”

She looked at You Ruxu, “Our Ruxu is just like her aunt, refusing to date. No matter what I say, she won’t listen, always busy with work, it worries me to death.”

“It’s good that she’s not dating.” The professor said, “No dating, no problems. Look at that recent news about the husband killing his wife for insurance money, how frightening. Marriage is risky these days, being single is good, isn’t it, Ruxu?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes, Auntie, you’re right.”

“Right, my foot.” Wu Xiulian poked You Ruxu’s temple playfully, “Fine, if you don’t want to date, then don’t, it’s better than messing around outside.”

The professor laughed heartily, “That’s true, Ruxu, don’t mess around outside, your parents care about their reputation, don’t embarrass them.”

Wu Xiulian looked at You Ruxu and said, “She won’t, our Ruxu never gives us cause for worry.” She lowered her voice and asked, “Right, Ruxu?”

You Ruxu looked at Wu Xiulian.

Her throat itched, and she coughed as soon as she opened her mouth. Wu Xiulian changed the subject, “You have a bit of a cold just after coming back, I’ll buy you some medicine later.”

You Ruxu said, “Mom, I’ll buy it myself.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Alright, then you go back first, don’t you still have to cover the summit?”

You Ruxu nodded, handing the car keys to Wu Xiulian. Wu Xiulian said, “You keep the car, I’ll go back with them.”

You Ruxu took the car keys and sat in the car, the window open, the cool air blowing in. The air after the rain was damp. She didn’t move, then after a moment, messaged Zhou Tianzui: [Are you awake?]

Zhou Tianzui had been awake for a while, preparing the materials for the summit. She had just finished organizing them when she received You Ruxu’s message. Her lips curved into a smile. She replied: [Awake, what time are you coming?]

You Ruxu replied: [I’ll be there in half an hour.]

Zhou Tianzui only then noticed her half-eaten breakfast. She ate while looking at her computer, then became engrossed in her work. The boiled egg had gone cold. She took a bite and inadvertently glanced at the mirror. Her reflection was smiling as she ate. She pursed her lips and tried to adjust her expression, then gave up, tidied up her desk, and waited for You Ruxu.

Half an hour later, You Ruxu knocked and entered. Zhou Tianzui placed her laptop bag together with You Ruxu’s equipment. Seeing You Ruxu walk in, wearing a fitted off-white jacket, jeans, and sneakers, her hair neatly tied back, and presumably because of the summit, her makeup was meticulously applied, a pair of red earrings the only bright color, adding a touch of vibrancy to her overall look.

Zhou Tianzui glanced at her and asked, “Have you had breakfast?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

She cleared her throat, her voice a little hoarse. Zhou Tianzui got up and poured her a glass of water. You Ruxu took a sip, the warm water soothing her throat. Zhou Tianzui said, “The equipment is over there.”

You Ruxu nodded and sat on the sofa to adjust the equipment. After a while, she looked up at Zhou Tianzui, who had finished breakfast and changed into a casual and comfortable outfit. She had applied light makeup, her hair tied back, a few strands framing her face, adding a touch of elegance she didn’t usually have. You Ruxu looked at her for a few seconds and heard Zhou Tianzui say, “Let’s go.”

She asked You Ruxu: “Should I carry one for you?”

“No need.” You Ruxu said, “It’s not heavy.”

But Zhou Tianzui still took one of the backpacks from her, carrying her own laptop bag as well. They went downstairs to the summit venue across the street. It was being held in a large hall, already filled with reporters and their equipment. You Ruxu had just walked in when she heard someone call out, “Ruxu!”

She turned around and saw a former university classmate, her former roommate, even. They had been closer than ordinary classmates, but they had lost touch after graduation.

You Ruxu smiled faintly. Han Shuang asked, “When did you get back?”

Looking at the equipment in her hand: “Oh, you’re back for work?”

You Ruxu said, “No, I’m still in Jindu.”

“I heard you went there after graduation.” Han Shuang asked, “Haven’t come back since?”

You Ruxu shook her head, “Not yet.”

“What’s so good about that place, it’s stolen the soul of our old classmate.” She teased. You Ruxu glanced at Zhou Tianzui and saw that she was also looking at her. You Ruxu lowered her head and heard Han Shuang ask, “This is Dr. Zhou, right?”

Zhou Tianzui extended her hand, “Hello, I’m Zhou Tianzui.”

“Hello, hello, I’m from Chaohuang TV.” Han Shuang was here to cover the summit and conduct interviews. Zhou Tianzui was one of her targets. Although her resume wasn’t as impressive as some of the directors, being nominated for deputy director at only thirty, and having performed several major surgeries, her reputation had reached even Yuhai. So, Zhou Tianzui was one of the people Han Shuang wanted to interview.

She had noticed Zhou Tianzui and You Ruxu as soon as they entered. Clearly, she wasn’t the only one. Other TV stations had also noticed them, but she was the quickest to act, and she also knew You Ruxu, making it easier to approach.

Hearing that You Ruxu was still working in Jindu, Han Shuang breathed a sigh of relief. She knew she couldn’t compete with You Ruxu for an interview.

She looked at You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui: “You two know each other?”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t speak. You Ruxu said, “We’re friends.”

Han Shuang smiled, “Oh, you’re good friends. I was Ruxu’s roommate in university. Can we have dinner together after this is over? I have some questions for Dr. Zhou.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at You Ruxu, then after a few seconds, said, “Okay.”

Han Shuang was satisfied, having secured a valuable resource. She said goodbye to You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui and went to find other people. Zhou Tianzui asked You Ruxu, “Are you going in?”

“You go ahead.” You Ruxu said, “I’ll be in later.”

Zhou Tianzui, not quite understanding filming procedures, nodded and entered the hall. Many of her colleagues were already there. She chose a seat and occasionally looked back at You Ruxu, who was constantly being greeted by people. Han Shuang was also chatting with her. Zhou Tianzui leaned back in her chair, a notebook and pen in hand, unconsciously writing on the paper. Coming back to her senses, she saw half the page filled with the name “A Ran.” Just as she was about to turn the page, she heard someone beside her ask, “Hey, who’s that reporter at the entrance?”

She turned around. The speaker was a handsome young doctor, his face clean and fair. Another doctor, about the same age, sitting beside him, asked, “Which one?”

“The one in the off-white jacket.” The first doctor said, “Red earrings.”

“Oh, that’s You Ruxu.” The other doctor clearly knew You Ruxu, his tone familiar. “Her mother and my mother work in the same office. I heard she’s still single.”

“Really?” The first doctor was surprised, “Still single?”

The other one said, “Yes, single, but I heard she’s not planning to get married. My mom mentioned it.” He lowered his voice, “She’s never even been in a relationship.”

A soft gasp came from nearby, the man’s gaze towards You Ruxu intensifying, his interest piqued. The other doctor said, “But she’s working in Jindu now.”

“Jindu?” The first doctor sounded disappointed. “So far away.”

“Not that far.” The other one said, “I heard she’s coming back in a month or so, her mother’s already looking for a new job for her.”

Zhou Tianzui’s grip on her pen tightened, the tip leaving a mark on the blank page. She lowered her head, turned the page, and heard the other doctor encourage the one beside him, “If you want her contact information, just go for it, I heard she’s on assignment here, be proactive, maybe something will happen.”

The first doctor’s heart pounded, looking at You Ruxu, his affection growing. He couldn’t suppress his excitement any longer. He clenched his hands, stood up, and walked towards You Ruxu.

Zhou Tianzui’s gaze followed him, her eyes dark and bright, her expression unreadable. One hand held the pen, the other took out her phone. Just before the man reached You Ruxu, she dialed You Ruxu’s number.

You Ruxu was slightly surprised to receive a call from Zhou Tianzui, then looked towards where she was sitting. Not thinking too much about it, she answered the phone.

The man, just as he reached You Ruxu, about to ask for her contact information, saw her answer the phone, seemingly busy, and awkwardly touched his nose, turning back.

You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, hearing her voice through the phone, “What’s wrong?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Wrong number.”

You Ruxu chuckled softly, “Then I’ll…”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t hang up.”

You Ruxu held the phone, her gaze meeting Zhou Tianzui’s across the crowded hall. She held the phone to her ear. Zhou Tianzui didn’t say anything, only the faint sound of her breathing coming through the line. Despite the noise around her, You Ruxu could hear it clearly, like a secret code between them, Zhou Tianzui’s breath traveling across the distance, brushing against her ear.

Like many times before.

You Ruxu tightened her grip on the phone, the ear pressed against the receiver turning slightly red.

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You Ruxu: What’s wrong?

Zhou Tianzui: Miss You.

You Ruxu: You’re finally speaking human language in the author’s notes.

Zhou Tianzui: …

Chapter 38: Sleep

Wu Xiulian came out of her room. You Ruxu was holding her phone, lost in thought. Wu Xiulian walked over, not looking at You Ruxu’s phone, but calling out, “Xu Xu.”

You Ruxu snapped back to reality and looked up at Wu Xiulian. After a few glasses of wine, she felt a little tipsy and had a sudden urge to go find Zhou Tianzui. But Wu Xiulian’s words were like thorns, pricking her, preventing her from moving. Wu Xiulian said, “What are you thinking about? I called you several times.”

You Ruxu put away her phone and said, “Nothing, Aunt, are you busy?”

Wu Xiulian was always busy at work. Previously, she would often be called away for meetings while talking to You Ruxu, so You Ruxu was used to it. Wu Xiulian said, “No, I want to chat with our Xu Xu.”

You Ruxu leaned back on the sofa, looking at Wu Xiulian. Her grandparents had passed away early, so she had grown up with Wu Xiulian, who loved taking her out to play. Sometimes, when they went out, she would say, “Don’t call me Aunt, call me older sister.”

She would obediently call out, “Older sister.”

And introduce Wu Xiulian as her older sister to everyone. When Wu Xiulian’s mother found out, she would scold them both. Back then, Wu Xiulian’s mother wasn’t as gentle as she was now. Taking care of two children, she would often lose her temper. But Wu Xiulian would say, “It’s okay, your mom is all bark and no bite, we just need to coax her and act cute.”

She would then follow Wu Xiulian’s lead, often making Wu Xiulian’s mother laugh and cry at the same time, until she asked You Shu to discipline them.

They were still afraid of You Shu and behaved much better in front of him. Later, when Wu Xiulian was busy with university, she came home less often. During high school, You Ruxu often went home with her deskmate, a gentle person. You Ruxu had seen Wu Xiulian argue with her angrily, but the girl would just softly say, “I’m sorry, Xiulian.”

After that, when Wu Xiulian went to university, You Ruxu never saw that deskmate again. Wu Xiulian, however, started dating again, even bringing You Ruxu to meet a few of her boyfriends, trying her old trick again, asking You Ruxu to call her “older sister.” But You Ruxu was older now and couldn’t bring herself to say it.

But in You Ruxu’s heart, Wu Xiulian was always like a mother and an older sister, teaching her many things. Things that Wu Xiulian’s mother couldn’t say directly, Wu Xiulian would tell her. She didn’t shy away from any topic, so she asked directly, “Xu Xu, are you in a relationship?”

You Ruxu gripped her glass, her pupils constricting as she looked at Wu Xiulian.

In a relationship?

Her and Zhou Tianzui.

You Ruxu asked, “Am I?”

“Yes.” Wu Xiulian was certain. “Xu Xu, you’re different from when you came back six months ago.”

You Ruxu looked at Wu Xiulian, “How am I different?”

Wu Xiulian said, “Your emotions.”

The You Ruxu before was like stagnant water, always calm and undisturbed. She remembered when You Ruxu insisted on going to Jindu, Wu Xiulian’s mother had been very anxious, asking her to persuade You Ruxu. Jindu was a new and unfamiliar place, no one to take care of her there, they were all reluctant to let her go. She had talked to You Ruxu, who just calmly said, “Aunt, I have to go, I want to go.”

She had asked, “Then when will you come back?”

You Ruxu had thought for a moment, “Maybe in a few years.”

She had returned a few times since, her demeanor the same as before. Wu Xiulian had teased her, asking if she had someone special there, hence her reluctance to return. But those were just jokes, until this time. Wu Xiulian sensed that You Ruxu was different.

The previously stagnant water had been infused with a fresh spring, flowing and vibrant. She saw a range of emotions in You Ruxu, and being experienced in life, she knew what those emotions meant.

You Ruxu looked down.

Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu, you’re in love, your aunt should be happy for you, should bless you, but…”

You Ruxu remained silent, taking another sip of wine.

Wu Xiulian continued, “You should know what your aunt is trying to say.”

You Ruxu said, “I know.”

Wu Xiulian asked, “Do you love her very much?”

Love her very much?

You Ruxu remembered the first time she met Zhou Tianzui, she had liked her immediately, but that was a friendly affection, admiration. She liked Zhou Tianzui without knowing who she was. After a few more encounters, she enjoyed spending time with her even more. It wasn’t that she didn’t have friends, she had several before, but they gradually drifted apart. After meeting Zhou Tianzui, they became closer, and she finally recognized her.

That affection became mixed with a heavy sense of guilt, at times suffocating her. She wanted to get closer, but didn’t dare to. Zhou Tianzui, oblivious, cared for her when she was at her most vulnerable, after being attacked. Zhou Tianzui hinted at wanting to take their relationship further, and You Ruxu accepted it all. Anything Zhou Tianzui wanted, she had no reason to refuse.

During the three years they were together, she sometimes couldn’t distinguish whether it was affection or guilt that was stronger, but Zhou Tianzui’s recent changes made her realize that it was affection.

You Ruxu said, “Yes, I do.” She said, “Aunt, I love her very much.”

She loved Zhou Tianzui. They were changing, slowly. She was shedding the heavy guilt, they were on a new path.

She felt happy and joyful because of Zhou Tianzui’s words, wanting to be with her, not out of guilt, but simply because of love.

Wu Xiulian wasn’t surprised by her honesty, nodding, “That child seems good, I also like her very much, but your parents won’t.”

You Ruxu’s expression faltered. Wu Xiulian said, “I can see it, and your mother can see it too, but she hasn’t said anything to you, has she?”

She hadn’t.

Zhou Tianzui had been away for so long, and there had been very little mention of her at home.

Wu Xiulian said, “You should understand what your mother means.”

Because they didn’t acknowledge it, there was no need to discuss it.

You Ruxu understood.

Her emotions fluctuated, but her expression remained unchanged, her lips pressed tightly together. Wu Xiulian said, “Have another glass.”

You Ruxu said, “I should go home.”

Wu Xiulian sighed, “Really not staying with your aunt tonight?” She pouted slightly, “I still want to sleep with you, you used to cling to me at night, and now you don’t want me anymore.”

You Ruxu forced a smile, “Aunt.”

Wu Xiulian pinched her cheek, “I’m just teasing you, go home, your parents should be asleep by now.”

At this hour, Wu Xiulian and You Shu were indeed asleep. You Ruxu opened the door and entered. The hallway light was on, a small nightlight. She remembered how, when she was young, she was afraid to go to the bathroom at night and would always hold it in. A few times, she couldn’t hold it any longer and would run into Wu Xiulian, who wouldn’t say anything, just leave the hallway light on. Later, when she was older, she would always instinctively turn it off, but if she woke up early in the morning, she would see the light still on. A few times, she heard Wu Xiulian say to You Shu, “Don’t turn off the light when you get up at night, Ruxu is afraid of the dark when she goes to the bathroom.”

Back then, when she was studying late into the night during junior high and high school, she would see that warm, dim yellow light whenever she opened the door.

You Ruxu turned off the light and went to her room. Passing by her parents’ room, it was dark, they were probably sound asleep. She took her clothes and went to take a shower. Returning to her room, she saw several messages from Zhou Tianzui.

[Where’s the nonsense, Teacher You?]

[Where are you?]

[Are you asleep?]

[Still at your aunt’s?]

She pursed her lips, sat on the edge of the bed, water droplets falling from her hair onto her pajamas. She touched the screen, then glanced at the small, square, deep purple gift box on her dresser, the one Zhou Tianzui said was to make her happy. You Ruxu walked over, took the box, and opened it. Inside was a pair of earrings, milky white pearl earrings, a simple design. You Ruxu held them in her hand, then sat in front of the mirror and put them on, looking at herself from different angles. She took a photo with her phone and sent it to Zhou Tianzui.

You Ruxu: [Do they look good?]

Zhou Tianzui was about to go look for her downstairs. You Ruxu hadn’t replied for a long time, and she figured You Ruxu was probably with her aunt. She wondered if calling would interrupt their conversation, so she waited.

She waited and waited, even finishing the novel, but still didn’t receive a reply from You Ruxu. Just as she was about to call, she saw the photo.

You Ruxu, fresh from the shower, sat in front of the mirror, her hair damp, wearing a simple cotton nightgown, buttoned to the top, revealing her slender neck, her milky skin glowing with a faint blush in the light. One hand held the phone, the other touched the earring as she asked: [Do they look good?]

Zhou Tianzui wanted to pull You Ruxu out of the photo and tell her in person how beautiful she looked.

And she did just that, calling her. You Ruxu answered immediately. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Just showered?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes, what are you doing?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Waiting for you.”

You Ruxu hummed softly, “Waiting for me?”

“Waiting for your nonsense.” Zhou Tianzui’s voice held a hint of amusement, “What did you want to say?”

“I—” Unlike Zhou Tianzui’s lighthearted tone, You Ruxu hesitated, her voice slightly muffled by the phone. Zhou Tianzui caught the hesitation and asked, “What’s wrong?”

You Ruxu said, “It’s nothing, I had a bit too much to drink at my aunt’s, I have a headache.”

She lay back on the bed, her hair still wet, and hugged the teddy bear beside her, as if she was hugging Zhou Tianzui. She wasn’t sure if she was drunk. She called out, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Zhou Tianzui suppressed the words on the tip of her tongue, “Hmm?”

“I’m sleepy, Zhou Tianzui.”

Her voice was clear and not very loud. She didn’t notice the person standing at the door. Wu Xiulian, hearing the shower, had gotten up, thinking You Ruxu hadn’t eaten much for dinner and wanting to ask if she wanted anything else. Walking to the door, she saw that You Ruxu’s door wasn’t completely closed. She approached and heard You Ruxu call out, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Her footsteps froze. Wu Xiulian looked down, thought for a few seconds, then looked at the figure lying on the bed, her back to the door. You Ruxu’s figure was slender, clutching the teddy bear tightly in her arms. Wu Xiulian’s hand slowly clenched into a fist, raising her hand, hearing You Ruxu say, “I’m sleepy, Zhou Tianzui.”

Her hand, about to push open the door, paused, slowly lowering. After a few minutes, she reached for the doorknob and closed the door for You Ruxu.

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You Ruxu: Zhou Tianzui, I’m sleepy.
Zhou Tianzui: Want to sleep with me?
You Ruxu: …