Category: Friend(GL)

Chapter 109: The Truth

Should she report it?

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

But she hadn’t.

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

Zhou Tianzui looked up at her.

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

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

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

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

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

She couldn’t report on it.

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

You Ruxu looked at her, “Zhou Tianzui.”

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

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

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

“What do you want me to do?”

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

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

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

You Ruxu started to say, “I…”

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

You Ruxu looked down.

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

They would have no future together.

Even now.

She was still thinking about their future.

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

She had failed Yu Qiao.

She didn’t deserve to be a daughter.

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

You Ruxu said, “Just bite…”

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

Blood.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Now we’re even.”

You Ruxu murmured, “Zhou Tianzui.”

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

Choose her.

Or choose her father.

Zhou Tianzui thought, she was also being quite cruel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu said, “Yes.”

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

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

Shi Qi said, “I’ll have it verified.”

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

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

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

Shi Qi said, “She’s inside.”

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

“Teacher You, you’re finally back!”

“We missed you so much, Teacher You!”

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

“You Ruxu is back.”

“Is she discharged?”

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

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

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

You Ruxu said, “Please.”

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

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

You Ruxu said, “Not yet.”

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

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

You Ruxu said, “I’ll join you.”

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

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

You Ruxu said, “Elsewhere.”

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

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

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

You Ruxu nodded, “Yes.”

Chen Xiang said, “I understand.”

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu paused for a few seconds, then nodded.

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

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

Everyone left.

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

You Ruxu asked, “Why do you ask?”

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

You Ruxu said, “She won’t back out.”

Her voice was hollow, “She won’t.”

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

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

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

Chen Xiang said, “Not yet.”

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

Chen Xiang agreed and hurried out.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui just hummed in response.

Yu Qiao said, “About your father, I…”

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

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

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

Yu Qiao was silent.

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

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

Written on the cover page.

Jindu Midday News Team, Zhou Qiming.

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

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

Chapter 108: Apology

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

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

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

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

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

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

But that notebook.

Shattered all of You Ruxu’s carefully constructed beliefs.

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

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

She started to loathe herself.

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

She wouldn’t have been able to handle it.

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

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

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

It was just hidden by Wu Xiulian?

She shook her head.

As if unable to accept it.

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

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

Her voice choked with tears, “Zhou Tianzui.”

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

You Ruxu said, “I’m sorry.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I heard you.”

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

Zhou Tianzui was speechless.

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

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

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

But emotionally.

She felt a deep sense of exhaustion and helplessness.

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

You Ruxu suddenly didn’t dare take it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

She didn’t know.

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

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

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

Jindu TV Midday News Team, Zhou Qiming.

Zhou Tianzui abruptly closed the notebook.

Wu Xiulian said, “Dr. Zhou…”

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

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

Wu Xiulian opened the door.

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

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

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

She said, “Aunt, I need some air.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I’ll go with you.”

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

Wu Xiulian paused for a few seconds, then nodded.

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

“How’s that doctor doing?”

“Which one?”

“The one who was stabbed.”

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

“What?”

You Ruxu closed her eyes.

The elevator reached the lobby.

Sounds from all directions assaulted her ears.

“That child’s mother died.”

“The one who jumped from the building?”

“I heard it was attempted rape.”

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

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

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

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

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

Raped?

What was “raped”?

She didn’t know.

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

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

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

She was afraid her mother would be hurt again.

She hated that man.

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

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

Numbly, she had pointed at the man.

The people around her exchanged glances.

A woman rushed in.

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

She wasn’t lying.

She wasn’t!

She wanted to hide.

Yes, to hide.

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

She sat there, unable to respond.

She turned the wheelchair and quickly moved away.

“Hey!”

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

She had so many chances to tell the truth.

So many chances.

But she didn’t!

She didn’t!

She didn’t!!

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

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

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

Her phone rang.

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

She looked up at the nurse.

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

You Ruxu fainted.

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

It was Chen Xiang.

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

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

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

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

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

Wu Xiulian said, “Okay.”

Chen Xiang hung up.

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

Wu Xiulian turned around.

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

Yell at her?

You Ruxu shook her head.

Wu Xiulian did it for her.

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

She asked, “Where’s Zhou Tianzui?”

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

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

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

Wu Xiulian said, “You should rest…”

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

Wu Xiulian was silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu froze.

Zhou Tianzui repeated, “Can you hug me?”

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

Zhou Tianzui looked away.

You Ruxu started apologizing again, over and over.

Zhou Tianzui didn’t respond.

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “Take it.”

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

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

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

Chapter 107: Evidence

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

She was begging her.

Not to agree.

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

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

You Ruxu nodded, “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui turned her head away.

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

“I’ll go.” You Ruxu said, “I’ll go.”

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

You Ruxu said, “Zhou Tianzui…”

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

She looked at You Ruxu.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The wound had reopened.

You Ruxu froze.

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

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

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

You Ruxu said, “We’ll find a way.”

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

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

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Really?”

A hint of vulnerability in her voice.

You Ruxu nodded, “Really.”

Zhou Tianzui seemed to relax slightly.

She released You Ruxu’s hand and frowned.

You Ruxu asked, “What’s wrong?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “My wound hurts.”

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

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

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

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

It was a blatant diversion tactic.

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

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

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

The director paused.

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

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

Her series of questions silenced the director.

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

There was a knock on the door.

The director said, “Come in.”

It was Fu Shushu.

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

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

The director was stunned.

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

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

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

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

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

Even Fu Shushu was speaking up for Zhou Tianzui.

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

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

The director looked at You Ruxu.

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

The director nodded, “Okay.”

You Ruxu said calmly, “Thank you.”

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu turned around.

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

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

You Ruxu nodded.

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu said, “Thank you.”

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

You Ruxu wanted to laugh.

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu nodded.

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

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

Wu Xiulian stepped forward and hugged her.

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

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

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

The hospital had filed the lawsuit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yu Qiao said, “I’ll go.”

Wu Xiulian looked at her.

Yu Qiao said, “You stay here.”

Her tone polite, a subtle acceptance.

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m fine.”

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

Zhou Tianzui gave a small “mm-hmm.”

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

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

Zhou Tianzui looked up.

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

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

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

You Ruxu said, “I’ll…”

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

You Ruxu looked at her, “Aunt?”

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

Chapter 106: I Beg You

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m tired.”

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

She truly was, exhausted.

Yu Qiao was speechless, just looking at her.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The director was speechless, looking at her.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “No, nothing.”

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

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

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

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

Yu Qiao didn’t agree.

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

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

Yu Qiao said, “No need.”

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

Zhou Tianzui looked at You Ruxu.

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Not yet.”

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Cat got your tongue?”

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

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

The ward was quiet.

You Ruxu’s voice was low, “I care.”

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

“You…”

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

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

You Ruxu paused.

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

You Ruxu’s eyes widened in surprise.

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

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

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

You Ruxu was about to speak.

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

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

Facing You Ruxu.

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

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

She was even more so than You Ruxu.

She was unfilial.

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

Zhou Tianzui felt ashamed of herself.

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui froze.

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

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “No, it’s not.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yu Qiao said, “I don’t agree!”

Zhou Tianzui was silent.

The ward was suddenly quiet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t.”

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

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

You Ruxu nodded: “I know, Auntie.”

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

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

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

You Ruxu’s hand was held tightly.

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

You Ruxu and Yu Qiao’s eyes met.

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

Chapter 105: Tacit Approval

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

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

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

She couldn’t bring herself to repeat the rest.

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

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

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

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

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

[????? What rapist?]

[Is this real?!]

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

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

You Ruxu’s hands turned cold.

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

Looking closely.

You Ruxu’s face was pale.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What’s wrong?”

You Ruxu said, “Nothing.”

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

She frowned, “What’s going on here?”

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

Her hand trembled.

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

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

Yu Qiao didn’t reply.

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

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

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

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

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

Yu Qiao said, “I’ll walk you out.”

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

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

She pressed the screen and called Wu Xiulian.

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

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

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

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

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

She said, “Not yet.”

At least, not before she left.

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

It had been two hours since the last knock.

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

She said, “Mom, I’m thirsty.”

Yu Qiao poured her a glass of warm water.

Zhou Tianzui paused, “I want some fruit.”

Yu Qiao asked, “Which one?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “An apple.”

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

Yu Qiao glared at her.

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

Yu Qiao went to the bathroom.

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

It was ridiculous.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Her gaze unwavering.

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

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

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

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

Yu Qiao said, “Because of your father?”

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

Yu Qiao’s eyes teared up.

She looked at Zhou Tianzui.

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

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

Yu Qiao was speechless.

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

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

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

Yu Qiao paused slightly, “A trip?”

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

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

She didn’t speak.

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

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

She was silent.

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

Yu Qiao looked down, muttering, “Abroad?”

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

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

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

Yu Qiao, under her gaze.

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

“Stabbed multiple times.”

“Last name Zhou, from the obstetrics department.”

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

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

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

Relieved that Zhou Tianzui was alive.

Relieved that she was okay.

Thank God.

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “She did.”

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

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

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

Chapter 104: Changes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu said, “No need.”

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

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

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

You Ruxu nodded.

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

Yu Qiao walked over to her bedside.

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

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

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

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

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

She looked at You Ruxu.

Remembering that night.

She fell silent.

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

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

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

Zhao Mingqi was the most remorseful.

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

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

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

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

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

The director nodded.

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

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

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

He Wei, startled, looked at her.

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

He Wei agreed.

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

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

Zhou Tianzui nodded.

They had just left when another group arrived.

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

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui was speechless.

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “Return them.”

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

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

“We’ll send them to your ward later.”

You Ruxu said, “They’re for you.”

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

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

You Ruxu smiled.

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

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

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

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

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

Wu Xiulian looked at her, “Fengyuan?”

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu nodded and continued eating.

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

You Ruxu said, “You’re here.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You Ruxu glanced at Zhou Tianzui, hearing this.

Zhou Tianzui’s gaze met hers.

You Ruxu smiled.

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

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

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

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Since when?”

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

Their eyes met.

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

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

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

She pushed You Ruxu’s wheelchair.

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

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

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

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

Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

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

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

You Ruxu said, “What is it?”

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

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

Chapter 103: Injured

The call disconnected abruptly. You Ruxu jolted awake, sitting up in bed. Ignoring the pain in her leg, she immediately got out of bed, stumbled, and steadied herself against the nightstand, then called Zhou Tianzui.

The ringing echoed in the corridor, sharp and insistent. The man’s face paled, and before Zhou Tianzui could react, he tried to pull out the knife, but she grabbed his hand. He was holding the baby in his other arm, unable to use his full strength. The nurses’ station was nearby. She turned and shouted, “Call the police!”

The nurses rushed out, their footsteps echoing in the corridor. The man, unable to pull out the knife, yanked his hand back and kicked Zhou Tianzui hard in the leg, sending her sprawling to the floor.

“He’s taking the baby! He’s killing someone!” Someone screamed, and the lights in all the wards flickered on. Zhou Tianzui breathed a sigh of relief, her hand clutching the wound, the blood flowing freely, her face pale. A nurse started crying, “Dr. Zhou! Dr. Zhou!”

Other doctors and nurses also rushed over. The man, seeing this, quickly ran towards the stairwell. Zhou Tianzui gasped, her voice weak and strained, “The baby…”

Before she could finish, a scream came from room sixty-two, “Where’s my baby?!”

The ward erupted in chaos.

When You Ruxu arrived with the police, the scene was chaotic. Zhou Tianzui had been taken into surgery. The police were chasing the man down the stairs. The patients were all holding their babies, standing outside their rooms. The husband of the patient in bed sixty-two grabbed the woman from bed sixty-three by the collar, “Where’s your husband?!”

The woman cried out desperately, “He’s not my husband!”

“I don’t care if he’s your husband or not! Give me back my son!” The man, his eyes filled with rage, tried to grab the baby from her arms, but was restrained by another man and dragged away. His wife screamed at him, “Go find him! Go find him!”

Having just given birth, she was still weak, collapsing onto the bed after just a few words, the other patients looking at her with pity. Several mothers, holding their babies, watched from a distance. You Ruxu, supporting herself against the wall, asked a nurse, “Where’s Zhou Tianzui?”

The nurse’s face was pale, still in shock, tears in her eyes, “Dr. Zhou’s in surgery.”

You Ruxu looked down and saw a pool of blood on the floor. She swayed slightly.

“Dr. Zhou was the first to notice.”

“Dr. Zhou was stabbed.”

“What happened? Was he trying to steal the baby?”

“Is he part of the gang from the maternity hospital?”

Voices all around her, a cacophony of noise, but You Ruxu couldn’t hear anything, her mind blank, her ears ringing. She leaned against the wall, her hands and feet cold, supporting herself on one leg, trying to find the operating room, her vision blurry, she stumbled forward.

“Reporter You!”

A nurse caught her, and You Ruxu, gripping her arm tightly, asked, “Which operating room?”

Yu Qiao arrived at the operating room, her face pale and drawn, looking at the brightly lit sign above the door, listening to the nurse, “Auntie, Dr. Zhou is in surgery.”

She heard them talking about surgical plans, consent forms, risks, but Yu Qiao’s mind was blank, her body numb. She couldn’t understand how this could happen, how could someone be attacked while working at the hospital?

She stood there, stunned.

Then she heard You Ruxu call out, “Auntie.”

Yu Qiao turned, her movements mechanical, momentarily forgetting their earlier argument, “Xiao Xu? What happened to Xiao Tian?”

You Ruxu’s eyes were red-rimmed, tears threatening to spill. She blinked and reached out to support Yu Qiao, noticing her trembling hands. Yu Qiao looked down at her hands, clenched them, then realizing, her expression hardening, but she didn’t pull away.

They stood together, You Ruxu supporting herself on one leg with difficulty, but she didn’t move, or rather, she forgot she could move.

She stood there like a statue, oblivious to the pain, the exhaustion, numb.

Until a nurse said to her, “Reporter You, your leg…”

She looked down, “It’s fine.”

Yu Qiao, hearing this, said, “Go sit down.”

You Ruxu’s hand, still gripping Yu Qiao’s, was cold and trembling. Yu Qiao helped her onto a bench.

“What happened?” Yu Qiao asked, “How did Xiao Tian get hurt?”

You Ruxu wanted to speak, but her throat was tight, a lump forming, she suddenly remembered Zhou Tianzui standing by her bedside earlier, her eyes red and filled with anguish, that desperate fear of loss, she now understood it completely.

“It was…” You Ruxu’s voice was hoarse, lacking its usual clarity, dry and raspy.

A police officer hurried over.

A crew-cut officer stopped in front of You Ruxu and asked, “Is Dr. Zhou alright?”

Yu Qiao, seeing them, quickly asked, “What happened to Xiao Tian?”

The officer looked apologetic, “Dr. Zhou seems to have witnessed a crime.”

“A c-crime?” Yu Qiao was confused. She looked at the officer, then at You Ruxu, wanting to ask, but not knowing what to ask. You Ruxu spoke, “That man, was he involved with the missing baby from the maternity hospital?”

The officer nodded: “They’re part of the same gang.”

Using the identity of a patient’s husband, they could freely enter and leave the wards without suspicion. The expectant mothers were abducted from remote villages, their husbands held hostage, threatened with harm to their families and newborn babies if they called the police, forcing the mothers to cooperate.

Yu Qiao said, “What does that have to do with our Xiao Tian?”

“Dr. Zhou seems to have figured it out.” But she hadn’t raised the alarm, and the man, sensing her suspicion, had acted rashly. The officer continued, “Our colleagues have apprehended the suspect, the baby is safe.”

The baby was returned safely. The mother from bed sixty-two, along with her family, rushed to the operating room, profusely thanking everyone, her husband even kneeling down, thanking Zhou Tianzui, thanking Yu Qiao. Yu Qiao’s eyes reddened as she cried.

The scene was chaotic, but You Ruxu seemed oblivious, her eyes fixed on the operating room light, everything else blurred, fading away. She could hear her own heartbeat, rapid and frantic, each beat a desperate cry.

Calling out Zhou Tianzui’s name.

Zhou Tianzui’s surgery was successful.

The doctor emerged from the operating room and informed them. You Ruxu tried to stand up, but her movements were slow and unsteady. Yu Qiao rushed over to the doctor, gripping his hand, “How is Xiao Tian?”

“The surgery was successful, the knife didn’t penetrate too deeply, Dr. Zhou…”

You Ruxu, following behind, her legs giving way at those words, she collapsed onto the floor.

Yu Qiao turned around and saw You Ruxu.

You Ruxu said, her voice trembling, “Auntie, she’s okay.”

Yu Qiao’s lips trembled, she didn’t speak.

You Ruxu, her voice choked with tears, repeated, “She’s okay.”

Yu Qiao gritted her teeth, looked at You Ruxu, then looked away. After a few seconds, she turned back and helped You Ruxu up. You Ruxu gripped her hand, her fingers cold, the coldness spreading to Yu Qiao’s hand.

The chaos didn’t subside until late into the night, but the online discussions continued to rage.

[A doctor at Jindu First Affiliated Hospital was murdered!]

[I heard it was also about a stolen baby!]

[Don’t spread rumors, she’s still in surgery.]

[Holy shit, is this real? Did they catch the killer?]

[Have you seen the video? Blood everywhere, don’t click if you have a weak stomach!]

Many people were present at the time, some called the police, others filmed the scene. Zhou Tianzui leaned against the wall, surrounded by doctors and nurses, her white coat stained crimson, her hand clutching the wound, her face pale.

Even then, she still managed to tell them that the baby belonged to the patient in bed sixty-two.

You Ruxu didn’t dare watch the video, her heart clenching painfully. Her face ashen, she sat on the bed, listening to Wu Xiulian say, “It’s alright now, Dr. Zhou’s condition is stable.”

She nodded, looking at Wu Xiulian, “Can I go see her?”

“Your leg…”

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

Before Zhou Tianzui was out of surgery, she had been restless, the doctors taking her back to her ward. Now, it was almost morning, Zhou Tianzui was out of observation, and You Ruxu wanted to see her.

Wu Xiulian said, “Her mother is also there.”

You Ruxu nodded, “I know.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I’ll wheel you over.”

You Ruxu sat in the wheelchair, being wheeled towards the elevator, thinking of Zhou Tianzui, of Yu Qiao, and suddenly said, “Aunt, if I had told Chen Xiang earlier, to investigate the backgrounds of the other patients in that ward, would Zhou Tianzui still…”

“Xu Xu.” A hand rested on her shoulder. Wu Xiulian bent down and looked at You Ruxu, “Don’t think like that, if you could think of it, the police could too, this was an accident, it happened so quickly, no one was prepared. Dr. Zhou was already very cautious.”

Remaining calm and composed, not alerting the attacker, that was already remarkable.

It was just that the attacker was experienced and sensed her suspicion, hence his rash action.

Thankfully, Zhou Tianzui had been prepared, stepping back, grabbing the man’s hand, preventing the knife from penetrating too deeply, even managing to stall him and buy some time, “Don’t blame yourself.”

You Ruxu’s expression eased slightly, but the thought of Zhou Tianzui lying in a hospital bed still made her feel nauseous. They reached the ward. You Ruxu, seeing Wu Xiulian about to knock, instinctively grabbed her hand. Wu Xiulian looked at her.

You Ruxu released her hand, her face pale as a sheet.

The door opened with a soft click. Yu Qiao was standing there. You Ruxu and Wu Xiulian stood outside. The three of them looked at each other for a few seconds. Wu Xiulian finally spoke, “Sister, is Dr. Zhou awake?”

Yu Qiao’s gaze was fixed on You Ruxu.

Her expression much calmer than their previous encounter at the apartment. She hesitated, then said, “No.”

You Ruxu’s eyes dimmed. She called out, “Auntie, can I…”

Yu Qiao glared at her.

You Ruxu continued, “Can I go see her?”

A hint of pleading in her tone. Yu Qiao’s hand tightened on the doorknob, she looked at the person inside the ward, then at You Ruxu, then after a long moment, said, “Go ahead.”

You Ruxu breathed a sigh of relief, wanting to smile, but it looked worse than crying. Yu Qiao, in her memory, You Ruxu was always elegant, beautiful, composed and capable in front of the camera, so different from the You Ruxu now, her image crumbling.

She was disheveled, anxious, worried sick about Zhou Tianzui.

Yu Qiao saw it all.

She glanced at Wu Xiulian, then went to the pantry.

Several people were waiting in line for the water dispenser, chatting casually as they waited.

“There was an incident at the hospital last night!”

“I know, it was Dr. Zhou from the obstetrics department, right? I saw the video.”

Yu Qiao’s grip on the water bottle tightened.

“I heard she was stabbed multiple times!”

“Is she dead?”

“The knife missed any vital organs.”

“That’s good, that’s good. Not many doctors are willing to put themselves in harm’s way these days.”

“She was lucky, there was a reporter hospitalized there, and her police escort arrived just in time to apprehend the suspect.”

“Was it that baby kidnapping case from the maternity hospital? Apparently, it’s a gang, they caught several of them last night…”

Yu Qiao, listening to their conversation, was in a daze.

“It’s all thanks to that doctor, otherwise who knows how many babies would have been harmed. They still haven’t found that baby from the maternity hospital.” A few family members chimed in, “I hope the doctor is okay, it would be such a loss if something happened to her.”

“Exactly.” Another one said, “She’s so young, and I don’t think she’s even married.”

“I wonder if she has a partner, her family must be terrified.”

Yu Qiao walked out of the pantry with her water bottle and returned to the ward. She saw Wu Xiulian standing outside in the corridor. Wu Xiulian hadn’t entered, just standing there. Hearing footsteps behind her, she turned around, “Sister.”

Yu Qiao nodded curtly and stood beside her, looking through the small window above the door. You Ruxu was sitting by the bed. Zhou Tianzui was awake, her hand, adorned with a red string bracelet, reaching out to hold You Ruxu’s.

You Ruxu also wore a red string bracelet on her wrist.

Yu Qiao took a deep breath and didn’t enter.

Chapter 102: Something Happened

You Ruxu woke to good news. Zhou Heng had confessed. He had met with his lawyer the previous day, and shortly after, turned himself in, ranting about being framed, even accusing his lawyer, but his shrewd mind knew the lawyer was just trying to protect him, to make him take the fall. He had been foolish throughout the whole affair, but at the last minute, he had a moment of clarity, realizing he was being used, and hoping to redeem himself, confessed to orchestrating Xu Jinwan’s kidnapping, though he insisted he never ordered her death.

With the informant and the construction site manager apprehended, and the kidnapper already in custody, the truth began to emerge. You Ruxu’s report had been a lucky coincidence. What started as a simple brake disc issue alerted Zhou Yun, who was abroad. He saw an opportunity to return and take over. The stalking, the threats, even You Ruxu’s car accident, were all arranged by him, but he hadn’t intended for You Ruxu to die.

You Ruxu, a mere reporter, wasn’t worth the trouble.

He wanted maximum chaos, to ensure Zhou Heng’s downfall. He bribed Xu Jinwan’s informant, feeding her the information about the “big news,” prompting her to return from her studies. It was he who leaked Zhou Heng’s plan to Xu Jinwan through the informant.

A perfect plan.

Lacking only ruthlessness.

He made the decision for Zhou Heng.

Reasoning was one thing, evidence another. Zhou Yun was summoned as a suspect. Online discussions reached fever pitch. You Ruxu, browsing the news, was silent, reading the comments below.

[So Xu Jinwan was a victim of these two brothers’ power struggle?]

[If that’s true, I recommend the death penalty!]

[The death penalty is appropriate, this wasn’t just murder, but an attempt to incite social unrest! Zhou Heng lived abroad for several years, someone should investigate his background!]

“Do you want to go blind?” Wu Xiulian walked into the ward with a fruit basket. As the details of the case emerged, You Ruxu, as the victim, had also given her statement. News of her injuries couldn’t be contained. Her phone hadn’t stopped ringing, she was constantly switching phones to keep up with the news. Wu Xiulian and You Shu, learning about her injuries, wanted to come to Jindu. Wu Xiulian said, “No need, I’m here, Xu Xu is doing well, we’ll go home together after she’s discharged.”

Wu Xiulian’s mother was reassured. You Shu told You Ruxu to rest well, and before hanging up, said, “Ruxu, well done.”

You Ruxu’s eyes teared up, “Thank you, Dad.”

Wu Xiulian nudged Wu Xiulian’s mother, “You’re such a strange father…”

You Ruxu hung up, feeling relieved. Wu Xiulian’s nagging replaced her mother’s, although Wu Xiulian preferred to talk about amusing things, “We had a conference in a neighboring city recently, their dialect is so interesting,” mimicking a phrase, making You Ruxu want to laugh, but she suppressed it. Wu Xiulian said, “Just laugh, there’s no need to hold back.”

You Ruxu chuckled softly.

Her lips curved into a smile.

Zhou Tianzui stood at the door, looking in, her expression gentle.

She didn’t enter. She received a call from He Wei, “Dr. Zhou, the patient in bed sixty-one is having abdominal pain.”

Zhou Tianzui turned to leave.

The corridor was empty, she walked quickly towards the elevators.

Patient sixty-three, scheduled for a C-section, had already given birth. Patient sixty-two, after three days of oxytocin, had a daughter. Patient sixty-one had been complaining of pain for days, but there was still no sign of labor. Zhou Tianzui entered the ward, glancing at the other two patients.

The patient in the furthest bed was lying down, the curtains drawn, her husband absent, the baby beside her, some distance from the bed. The patient in bed sixty-two had placed her baby on the bed and was resting, the curtains between the beds drawn. Zhou Tianzui examined her, then said, “Take her to the delivery room.”

He Wei responded with an “okay.”

She wheeled the patient out. Zhou Tianzui removed her gloves and ran into the husband of patient sixty-three at the doorway. He was carrying two boxes of fried rice and some barbequed skewers, the strong smell of cumin filling the air. Zhou Tianzui frowned, “It’s best not to give the patient this kind of food.”

“Okay.” The man’s voice was low as he walked past her, “It’s for me.”

Zhou Tianzui frowned slightly, but didn’t say anything.

Back in the delivery room, she heard the patient in bed sixty-one say between contractions, “Her husband is so strange, he even made her drink cold water last night, didn’t even bother warming it up.”

He Wei said, “I’ve never seen anything like that.”

“Seriously.” The patient said, “He doesn’t care at all, as if she’s not even his wife.”

Zhou Tianzui’s writing paused. She glanced at the patient, then continued filling out the form. She asked He Wei, “Was patient sixty-three’s prenatal checkup done at our hospital?”

The patient said, “No, in Changcun.”

Changcun was a remote, less developed village in Jindu. The residents usually only came to the hospital to give birth, only undergoing the necessary checkups. Zhou Tianzui nodded and heard He Wei say, “You seem to be in good spirits.”

“I’m fine, it’s just the pain… Here it comes again.” She took a deep breath and was wheeled into the delivery room. Zhou Tianzui handed the form to He Wei, asking her to get the family’s signature, then prepare for the surgery.

People came and went in the ward. The husband of patient sixty-three was eating fried rice and drinking soda, offering some to his wife, “Want some?”

His wife shook her head, not looking at him. He didn’t seem to care, continuing to eat and drink. The patient in the next bed said, “Why is your husband like this?”

Hearing this, he looked up, his gaze menacing, silencing the patient instantly. She nervously swallowed, looking down at her baby, only relaxing after her husband returned and drew the curtains, blocking his intimidating stare.

He was terrifying.

She didn’t dare tell her husband.

Zhou Tianzui spent the entire afternoon in the delivery room. When she returned to the office, it was almost the end of her shift, most of her colleagues had already left. She sat at her computer, and Lin Luo asked, “Dr. Zhou, aren’t you leaving?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m on duty.”

She had switched shifts with Zhao Mingqi, who had a blind date and had been bragging about it in the office earlier. Zhou Tianzui, seeing Fu Shushu get up to leave, called out, “Dr. Fu.”

Fu Shushu turned around.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Could you please send me patient sixty-three’s information?”

Fu Shushu was puzzled, “Patient sixty-three? Is there a problem?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I just wanted to take a look.”

Fu Shushu paused, then nodded, “Okay, I’ll send it to you later.”

The others, busy getting off work, didn’t pay much attention to their exchange. After most people had left, Zhou Tianzui took her thermos and said, “I’m going down to get some dinner.”

The other doctor on duty nodded, “Go ahead, I’m not going today, I can’t stomach the cafeteria food.”

Zhou Tianzui smiled faintly.

She was indeed going downstairs for dinner, but not to the cafeteria, but to You Ruxu’s apartment, to freeload. Wu Xiulian had been making all sorts of delicious food for You Ruxu, soups, braised pork ribs, chicken stew. Zhou Tianzui’s diet had improved significantly, “I’ve even gained weight,” she commented.

Wu Xiulian said, “You haven’t gained any weight! Don’t follow Xu Xu’s example, you need to eat more!”

Zhou Tianzui chuckled, “Okay, I will.”

Wu Xiulian, seeing her good mood, asked, “How’s your mom doing? I mean, her attitude.”

You Ruxu also paused her eating, looking at Zhou Tianzui, who smiled at her and said, “My mom’s much better now.” Not like before, when mentioning You Ruxu was forbidden. She still got angry whenever they talked about it, but it wasn’t as bad as at first. Yesterday, when she talked to You Ruxu on the phone, sitting right beside her mother, Yu Qiao had only scoffed and hadn’t left.

Things were slowly getting better.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Give her some time, she’ll come around.”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll go see her after I’m discharged.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I’ll go with you.”

Zhou Tianzui, looking at them, nodded.

After dinner, Wu Xiulian gave them some space. Zhou Tianzui called Yu Qiao and asked if she had eaten. Yu Qiao’s voice was indifferent, “I have.”

She looked around the apartment.

Zhou Tianzui had been staying with her, sometimes saying, “Mom, I should move back in, shouldn’t I? We can live together, I won’t even have to cook, it’ll be great.”

Yu Qiao hadn’t replied.

Zhou Tianzui would then say, “Let’s go on a road trip this weekend. Haven’t you been complaining that I haven’t taken you anywhere these past few years?”

“We?”

Did that “we” include You Ruxu?

Yu Qiao didn’t ask, but she knew, Zhou Tianzui was painting a picture of their future, a future that included You Ruxu. Thinking of that name, she could now maintain a semblance of composure. That night, when You Ruxu came to her apartment, frantic and worried, her usual elegant composure gone, it had dissipated much of Yu Qiao’s anger.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I just finished eating as well.”

Yu Qiao asked, “Is something the matter?”

Zhou Tianzui, glancing at You Ruxu, said, “Her aunt is here.”

Yu Qiao’s face tensed, her grip on the phone tightening.

Zhou Tianzui said, “She wanted to invite you to a casual dinner.”

This time, Yu Qiao didn’t refuse outright, just a noncommittal, “We’ll see.”

Zhou Tianzui nodded, her eyes slightly watery, “Okay, I understand.”

After hanging up, she looked at You Ruxu, who wiped her mouth and asked, “What’s wrong?”

“I just asked my mom about dinner.”

You Ruxu’s heart leaped into her throat. She looked at Zhou Tianzui, her expression a little dazed, “What did she say?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “She said ‘we’ll see.’”

You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui smiled and nodded at her.

You Ruxu’s eyes reddened.

Zhou Tianzui cupped her face and leaned in as if to kiss her. You Ruxu said, “But we just ate…”

She was kissed on the forehead, her eyelids, the tip of her nose. Zhou Tianzui’s finger traced her lips. A noise came from the doorway, and Wu Xiulian said, “It’s a little cold outside.”

You Ruxu smiled, pursing her lips.

After Wu Xiulian entered, the three of them discussed where to have dinner, deciding to book a private room in advance. Zhou Tianzui received a message, it was from Fu Shushu, asking if there was something wrong with patient sixty-three. You Ruxu asked, “Do you have to go back to work?”

“Yes, I’ll go upstairs later. No surgeries tonight. I’ll come over after my shift…”

You Ruxu said, “No need to come over.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Then I’ll call you.”

You Ruxu watched her leave, Wu Xiulian saying, “Xu Xu, do you know any good dentists here?”

“Dentists?” You Ruxu asked, “Aunt, do you have a toothache?”

“Yes.” Wu Xiulian chuckled, “From all the sweetness between you two.”

You Ruxu blushed, her lips pressed together. Wu Xiulian said, “It’s good that her mother is starting to accept it, that’s great.”

“But your job is still worrying, if you…”

You Ruxu said, “Aunt, I’m planning to resign.”

Wu Xiulian’s voice trailed off, “What?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m not going to be a reporter anymore.”

Wu Xiulian paused, “R-really?”

You Ruxu nodded.

Wu Xiulian was speechless, “Your mother will be so happy, and your father too.” She looked at You Ruxu, “Have you really decided?”

You Ruxu said, “Yes, I have.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Because of Dr. Zhou?”

You Ruxu said, “I don’t want them to worry.”

Wu Xiulian said, “What about you?”

You Ruxu looked at her.

Wu Xiulian said, “Are you happy?”

Changing careers, Wu Xiulian’s mother would be happy, Zhou Tianzui would be happy, everyone who worried about her would be happy, but You Ruxu, was she happy? You Ruxu said, “I…” then, “I am happy.”

Wu Xiulian gently stroked her hair and smiled.

Before going to bed, You Ruxu even tried walking around, hopping on one leg. Wu Xiulian said, “Stop it, be careful, don’t blame me if you fall!”

You Ruxu didn’t think it was a big deal and only sat down after a few more steps. She said to Wu Xiulian, “Aunt, you should go home early tonight.”

“You don’t need me to stay?”

You Ruxu said, “No, I can get out of bed now, and you’ve been so tired these past few days, you should go home and rest.”

“I should, indeed.” Wu Xiulian, assuming Zhou Tianzui would be coming over later, didn’t press the issue, “Okay then, take care tonight, call me or Dr. Zhou if anything happens.”

You Ruxu nodded.

After Wu Xiulian left, You Ruxu sat on the bed, looking out the window at the dark, gloomy sky. She reached for her phone. It was still early, she didn’t know what Zhou Tianzui was doing.

Zhou Tianzui was looking at patient files.

The information was no different from other patients, C-section due to large fetal size, good postoperative recovery. She rubbed her temples and heard the doctor opposite her ask, “What are you looking at?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Nothing.”

She looked up, “Keep a close eye on patient sixty-three.”

The other doctor asked, “Is there a problem?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I have a bad feeling about her husband.”

The other doctor chuckled, “Dr. Zhou, when did you start trusting your intuition?”

When did she? Probably after You Ruxu’s accident. She smiled faintly, shaking her head, thinking of You Ruxu looking down at her phone, and sent her a message: [Are you asleep yet?]

You Ruxu’s phone vibrated. She looked down, a message from Chen Xiang.

[Waaah, Teacher You, I was going to visit you today, but the boss sent me to the hospital.]

[Team 2 is so lonely without you, Teacher You.]

[Can I visit you tomorrow?]

You Ruxu, touching Chen Xiang’s profile picture, replied: [Focus on your work.]

Chen Xiang: [I am! Always! Teacher You, have you seen today’s news? Fengyuan is imploding!]

Not literally imploding, but figuratively, the company in chaos, the news also exploding online. You Ruxu knew, she had seen the news, including the report about the missing baby from the maternity hospital.

Chen Xiang: [They’re still investigating, no solid leads yet.]

You Ruxu typed: [Have they checked the parents’ backgrounds? And the other parents in the same ward? Also…]

Her fingers paused, and she thought for a few seconds, then deleted the message.

Her phone vibrated. She looked down, a message from Zhou Tianzui, asking if she was resting. You Ruxu smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners, and replied: [Just lying down.]

Zhou Tianzui: [Not sleeping yet?]

You Ruxu: [About to.]

Zhou Tianzui: [Where’s your aunt?]

You Ruxu: [I asked her to go home and rest. Aren’t you busy?]

Zhou Tianzui: [Not busy right now.]

They chatted for a few minutes, then Zhou Tianzui stopped replying. You Ruxu figured she was busy, placed her phone on the pillow beside her, lay down, and closed her eyes.

She dreamt of Zhou Tianzui, and Yu Qiao, Wu Xiulian, Wu Xiulian’s mother, You Shu, all having dinner together, sitting around a round hotpot, steam and mist rising from the bubbling broth. Zhou Tianzui said, “I want some meatballs.”

“Here you go.” Yu Qiao said with a smile, “You never gain any weight.”

Zhou Tianzui pinched her own cheek, “Beautiful Yu, do I look fat?”

Yu Qiao said, “Fat? You’re as thin as Xiao Xu.”

Zhou Tianzui, sitting next to You Ruxu, said, “Mom said we’re too thin, we need to eat more.”

“It’s Auntie,” You Ruxu corrected her, blushing. Zhou Tianzui said, “No, it’s Mom, call her Mom.”

You Ruxu didn’t speak.

Zhou Tianzui called out, “Beautiful Yu!”

Yu Qiao looked up.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Ruxu’s calling you.”

Yu Qiao, casually, “Calling me what?”

Zhou Tianzui asked You Ruxu, “Call her what?”

Everyone looked at her, Wu Xiulian’s mother, You Shu, and Wu Xiulian, amusement in her eyes. You Ruxu pinched Zhou Tianzui hard under the table and softly called out, “Mom.”

Yu Qiao smiled, “Hey.”

Wu Xiulian beamed and said, “Xu Xu, shouldn’t Dr. Zhou also change what she calls us?”

Without any of You Ruxu’s awkwardness, Zhou Tianzui readily called out, “Dad, Mom, Aunt.”

You Ruxu turned. In the sunlight, Zhou Tianzui was laughing with everyone, a warm and comforting scene. You Ruxu woke up, slightly dazed, how could she have such a dream?

Was it because Zhou Tianzui said Yu Qiao had agreed?

Or because they were having dinner together?

It was a beautiful dream.

A beautiful dream. You Ruxu checked her phone and saw Zhou Tianzui’s reply, sent ten minutes ago: [Just had a patient with a threatened miscarriage.]

Another message, five minutes ago: [Are you asleep?]

You Ruxu looked at the time, it was 1:30 am. She replied: [Awake.]

Zhou Tianzui immediately called. You Ruxu said, “Aren’t you on duty?”

“Yes, but Dr. Liu took over, I’m taking a break.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Why are you awake? Couldn’t sleep?”

She wanted to go see You Ruxu, holding her phone as she walked, when she saw a man in the corridor, holding a baby. She recognized him as the husband of patient sixty-three and walked over, “What are you doing here with the baby?”

The man, seeing her, wasn’t surprised. His tone was casual, “He was crying, I’m trying to soothe him.”

Zhou Tianzui nodded, “It’s drafty out here, you should go back inside.”

The man said, “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui, holding her phone, glanced at the baby in his arms. Every baby wore a wristband with their information, if they didn’t have a name yet, the mother’s name would be used, followed by the bed number.

She glanced at the baby’s wristband and turned to leave.

After a few steps, she turned back and said to You Ruxu on the phone, “Wait for me.”

You Ruxu heard her ask the man, “Can I see the baby?”

The man said, “He’s sleeping.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “That’s okay, I just want to take a quick look.”

The baby was bundled up in his arms. He gave her a cold look, “What do you mean?”

The hospital corridor was quiet late at night, their voices low. Zhou Tianzui, ignoring him, reached out and gently pulled back the baby’s sleeve to check the wristband. The man scowled.

Zhou Tianzui checked the wristband.

It displayed the information for the patient in bed sixty-three, everything matched. She took a step back, as if realizing her mistake, about to apologize. The man relaxed, one hand holding the baby, the other in his pocket, something bulging inside. Zhou Tianzui said, “I apologize, you should take the baby back inside.”

The man didn’t reply.

Zhou Tianzui nodded slightly and turned to leave, her hand reaching into her pocket for her phone, when the man called out, “Dr. Zhou.”

She turned around.

A fruit knife plunged into her side.

Chapter 101: Happiness

Wu Xiulian had been to Jindu a few times, always for business trips. You Ruxu had never been free before. This time, with the New Year approaching, and You Ruxu on leave, she decided to visit, also urged by Wu Xiulian’s mother to check on You Ruxu’s living situation in Jindu. She took leave after her business trip and flew over. You Ruxu didn’t pick her up, it was Zhou Tianzui who met her at the airport. Wu Xiulian chuckled, “Is Xu Xu that busy? I’ll have to lecture her later.”

You Ruxu, afraid of worrying her family, hadn’t told them about her injuries. The police had suppressed the news, so Wu Xiulian didn’t know either.

Zhou Tianzui said, “She’s not that busy recently, just a little…inconvenienced.”

“Inconvenienced?” Wu Xiulian frowned, “Did something happen to her?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “She’s in the hospital.”

You Ruxu sat on the hospital bed, listening to Wu Xiulian say, “What happened? Why didn’t you tell us about such a big incident? If I hadn’t come, were you just planning to keep it from us?”

“I’m sorry.” You Ruxu said, “I didn’t want you to worry.”

“Worry? What worry?” Wu Xiulian said, “Xu Xu, we’re family, family should share everything, you…” She sighed, “Forget it, with your personality, it’s pointless arguing with you.”

You Ruxu looked at her and asked, “Aunt, how’s Mom’s health?”

“Definitely better than yours.” Wu Xiulian said, “Where does it hurt?”

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

“Don’t lie.” Wu Xiulian said, “I know a guy who broke his hand, and he was crying like a baby. You have injuries on both your hand and leg, how can you not be in pain?”

You Ruxu was silent.

Wu Xiulian said, “Alright, your aunt is here now, I’ll take care of everything, you just focus on recovering, don’t worry about anything else.”

You Ruxu glanced at Zhou Tianzui, a gentle smile in her eyes, and nodded, “Thank you, Aunt.”

“If you’re so polite again, I’ll hit you!” She pinched You Ruxu’s cheek, “You’ve lost weight, your face is so thin.”

You Ruxu said, “I haven’t lost any weight.”

“Whether you have or not, you have to eat everything I give you these next few days.” Wu Xiulian said, “Are there any hotels nearby?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Our apartment is nearby.”

“That’s not convenient.” Wu Xiulian said, “I’ll stay at a hotel, are there any nearby?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, I’ll arrange it.”

“I’ll go with you.” Wu Xiulian picked up her suitcase. “Xu Xu, rest for a bit, I’ll come back later.”

Wu Xiulian’s arrival and departure were a whirlwind. You Ruxu sat on the bed, looking out the window at the sunny sky, a sense of warmth spreading through her. Zhou Tianzui took Wu Xiulian to a nearby hotel. It was less crowded during the New Year holidays. This hotel was mostly used by family members of patients, with a small kitchen and basic amenities, more like a studio apartment. Zhou Tianzui was worried Wu Xiulian wouldn’t be comfortable there and offered her apartment instead. Wu Xiulian said, “This is fine, it has everything, and I saw a supermarket downstairs. Dr. Zhou, are you busy? Do you have to go?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I was on duty last night, I’m not busy today.”

“Then you should probably rest, go home and sleep?” Wu Xiulian said, “You look like you’ve lost weight too, were you scared by what happened to Xu Xu?”

Zhou Tianzui stood beside Wu Xiulian, “A little, Aunt, I’ll go to the supermarket with you.”

“Oh, alright.” They chatted as they walked, “Xu Xu, that child, can be incredibly stubborn sometimes. When she was in junior high, she told me, ‘Aunt, I want to be a lawyer.’”

“I asked her why, and she said she thought lawyers were cool.” Wu Xiulian chuckled. “Later, she went back to her hometown, and when she came back, she was different, always getting sick, fevers, not even colds, just fevers. We took her to several hospitals, my sister was so worried, working during the day, and I would stay with Xu Xu, but she’s stubborn, refused to tell us what happened.”

But she eventually did talk.

In her dreams.

She talked about many things from the past, her mother, her father, a reporter, and a notebook.

Wu Xiulian admitted she was selfish. Wu Xiulian’s sister’s condition had finally stabilized after several years, and You Ruxu, after coming to live with them, had finally started acting like a normal child, learning to be affectionate, to express herself. She couldn’t forget the fear and trepidation in You Ruxu’s eyes when she first met her, how she pretended to be another child, an obedient and sensible child, for Wu Xiulian’s mother, hiding her true self, just to be able to stay with them.

It had been many years, and she didn’t want to destroy the fragile happiness they had built.

So, she hid the notebook.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “She still hasn’t talked about it?”

“Whether she does or not, we already know.” Wu Xiulian said, “She originally wanted to go to university in Jindu after high school, but my sister couldn’t bear to be apart from her, so Xu Xu stayed here. My sister, she doesn’t expect Xu Xu to come back anymore, she just wants her to be safe and happy, she wants you two to be happy together.”

Zhou Tianzui was silent.

Wu Xiulian said, “I heard your mother also lives in Jindu and takes good care of Xu Xu. Maybe one day…”

“My mother’s not doing very well recently.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Maybe next time.”

Wu Xiulian looked at Zhou Tianzui, “What’s wrong?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “She knows about us.”

“Ah…” A soft gasp of understanding. Wu Xiulian said, “Then your mother, she must be very angry.”

Zhou Tianzui pushed the shopping cart, “Yes, she’s very angry.”

The angriest she had been in years.

Wu Xiulian said, “It’s normal for her to be angry, she probably just needs time to accept it, you can’t force her.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I know.”

“Dr. Zhou,” Wu Xiulian said, “I know you and Xu Xu have been through a lot, Xu Xu might not say anything, but she keeps everything bottled up, her feelings for you, for your mother…”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Aunt, let’s forget about the past.”

Wu Xiulian looked at her.

Zhou Tianzui’s gaze was calm and peaceful. She said, “I don’t want to dwell on the past anymore. I told her, let’s let it go, we still have a future together.”

Wu Xiulian looked at her, and after a few seconds, said, “I’m sorry.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Aunt, you don’t have to…”

“Dr. Zhou, I’m sorry.” She said, “And I’m sorry to your mother, it’s our family’s fault, we’ve wronged you.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s not your fault.”

You Ruxu was adopted later, they weren’t responsible for what happened, “Aunt, let’s not talk about this anymore, let’s go back.”

Wu Xiulian nodded, and carrying the bags, followed Zhou Tianzui. They returned to the hotel with three bags of groceries. Wu Xiulian told Zhou Tianzui to rest, but Zhou Tianzui said, “I have to go home, my mom’s alone.”

“Alright, then you go ahead.” Wu Xiulian said, “Don’t tire yourself out, don’t worry about Xu Xu, I’ll take care of her.”

Zhou Tianzui was relieved, Wu Xiulian’s arrival was timely, she could spend more time with Yu Qiao, without worrying too much about You Ruxu. Back at her apartment, Yu Qiao was making lunch. Hearing her enter, she didn’t turn around. Zhou Tianzui called out, “Mom.”

“Weren’t you on the night shift? You worked until now?” Yu Qiao’s tone was sharp. Zhou Tianzui said, “I had to pick someone up this morning.”

Yu Qiao didn’t ask who it was. Zhou Tianzui went to the kitchen, “Mom, let me help you.”

“I don’t need your help.” Yu Qiao said, “I can manage.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, I’m sorry about last night.”

Yu Qiao’s hands paused mid-wash, her head lowered. Last night’s shock had been too much, she had even dreamt about it, You Ruxu coming to her apartment, looking for Zhou Tianzui, crying, begging to see her.

She had still been dazed when she woke up this morning.

Zhou Tianzui, seeing this, said, “It’s about the Fengyuan case, it’s almost over, don’t worry too much.”

“Worry about what?” Yu Qiao said, “Worry about you two sneaking around behind my back?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Mom, we weren’t sneaking around.”

“You’re not now.” Yu Qiao said, “But what about before?”

“I was afraid you wouldn’t accept it before.” Zhou Tianzui looked down, her long eyelashes hiding her expression. Yu Qiao said, “Couldn’t accept it before, so you think I can accept it now? Xiao Tian, it would have been better if you hadn’t told me at all, waited until I was dead, then you could be with whoever you want.”

“I didn’t want that.” Zhou Tianzui took the knife from Yu Qiao and started chopping vegetables skillfully, “You’re my mom, I want you to know about every decision I make.”

“You still remember I’m your mother!” Yu Qiao scoffed.

Zhou Tianzui continued chopping vegetables, “I do, that’s why you’re the one whose blessing I want the most.”

She turned to look at Yu Qiao, her tone sincere, “Mom, I don’t care what others think, what they say about me, even if they point fingers at me, I can handle it. But you’re different, you’re not like them, you’re my mom, the most important person in my life. If you don’t accept it, I won’t be happy.”

Yu Qiao was startled by her words, her heart heavy with complex emotions. They had only each other all these years, their bond stronger than anything. She didn’t doubt Zhou Tianzui’s sincerity, but it was precisely because of this sincerity that she felt even more heartbroken.

“Then—then you just—” Then just be unhappy.

Yu Qiao swallowed the words, looking at Zhou Tianzui, remembering her as a child, crying in her arms, remembering Zhou Tianzui in junior high, coming home every day excitedly saying, “Mom, I did well this week, the teacher praised me,” even when she was ridiculed and ostracized by her classmates at school, she would still come home with a smile, telling her mother she was fine.

Yu Qiao’s greatest wish in life was for Zhou Tianzui to be happy.

No one wanted her happiness more than she did.

But why a woman?

Yu Qiao couldn’t say the words, her face grim as she continued cooking. Zhou Tianzui, looking at her profile, sensing a slight softening in her demeanor, felt a warmth spread through her heart. She called out, “Mom.”

Yu Qiao didn’t respond.

Zhou Tianzui stood behind her, her voice slightly choked, “Mom.”

She just called out to her, not saying anything else.

Yu Qiao lowered her head, tears silently tracing her cheeks. Her back to Zhou Tianzui, she was unusually quiet.

After lunch, Zhou Tianzui went to her room to rest. She messaged You Ruxu: [Have you eaten?]

You Ruxu was having soup, her eyes lighting up slightly at the message. Wu Xiulian said, “Oh, a message from Dr. Zhou?”

“Yes.” You Ruxu said, “She just finished eating.”

Wu Xiulian said, “I heard, her mother knows about you two.”

You Ruxu’s typing paused, and she looked at Wu Xiulian.

Wu Xiulian continued, “It’s normal for her mother to be angry, even if she scolds us, it’s understandable. After you’re discharged, I’ll go see her with you.”

You Ruxu nodded, “Thank you, Aunt.”

Wu Xiulian said, “Finish your soup, I’ll go to the bathroom, you can talk to Dr. Zhou.”

You Ruxu, seeing her deliberately excuse herself, didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. She called Zhou Tianzui, her voice low, “Are you going to sleep?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, are you going to sleep too? Didn’t sleep well last night, did you?”

They had chatted on and off all night. You Ruxu said, “Yes, I’ll sleep after I finish eating.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ll come over later tonight.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui turned over and took out the press pass from her pocket. Before You Ruxu could hang up, she asked, “If—”

You Ruxu gripped her phone tightly.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “If you weren’t a reporter, what would you do?”

You Ruxu paused.

She hadn’t thought about any other career. After reading that notebook, she had once thought that if she died in an accident while working as a reporter, it would be a kind of redemption.

So, she didn’t know how to answer Zhou Tianzui’s question.

Zhou Tianzui waited patiently, knowing this was a difficult question for You Ruxu, “Become a lawyer?”

You Ruxu: “A lawyer?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Lawyers are cool, but they’re also very busy.” Her voice held a smile, “Be a clerk, nine-to-five, weekends off, we can go home together during holidays, take my mom on trips nearby…”

You Ruxu, holding her phone, listened to Zhou Tianzui’s words, imagining their future, a happiness she had never dared to dream of before.

Chapter 100: Miss Me

You Ruxu was kicked out, along with Zhou Tianzui. Zhou Tianzui said, “My phone’s broken, I’m going to get a new one.”

It had only been a couple of hours, but the informant appeared during that time, and then escaped. You Ruxu, losing control, went to Zhou Tianzui’s apartment.

Zhou Tianzui said, “My mom, she needs some time.”

“It’s okay, as long as you’re alright.” You Ruxu paused. “As long as Auntie is alright.”

The two police officers stood outside on the stairs, unable to hear their conversation clearly. Zhou Tianzui said, “Tonight…”

“Don’t come over tonight.” You Ruxu said, “Stay home with Auntie?”

Remembering Yu Qiao’s expression earlier, You Ruxu’s heart ached. Zhou Tianzui paused, “I’ll be at the hospital tonight, I’m on duty.”

You Ruxu looked up at Zhou Tianzui, her eyes still red, her jacket unzipped, her clothes thin. Zhou Tianzui bent down, crouched in front of You Ruxu, and zipped up her jacket. You Ruxu was only wearing a thin hospital gown, the fabric clinging to her skin from the wind. Zhou Tianzui’s hand rested on her knee, a comforting warmth. She said, “Give my mom some time.”

She pulled the hood of You Ruxu’s jacket over her head. You Ruxu’s gaze followed her movements, nodding slightly, “Mm-hmm.”

Zhou Tianzui glanced at the two officers not far away, touched You Ruxu’s face, “It’s cold, go back.”

You Ruxu let Zhou Tianzui help her into the car.

The car’s heater was on, and it was warm inside. You Ruxu touched her knee, then her cheek, still carrying Zhou Tianzui’s warmth, the faint scent of disinfectant. She looked down and heard the officer driving say, “Reporter You, you’ve known Dr. Zhou for a long time, haven’t you?”

You Ruxu said, “Over three years.”

Just as she finished speaking, she received a call from Captain Zhou, who said they had caught the informant. You Ruxu breathed a sigh of relief, “When?”

“Just now.” Captain Zhou said, “You—”

Did you see Zhou Tianzui?

She paused, then said, “You can relax now.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay, thank you.”

The arrest of the informant wasn’t made public yet, only a few people involved in the case knew. Captain Zhou subtly revealed this information to Zhou Heng, who became even more agitated.

He wasn’t the type to resort to murder.

Captain Zhou had met him a few times, had a good grasp of his character, but now, he was the prime suspect, his name publicly announced, he was trapped. He had orchestrated the kidnapping. Confessing meant certain punishment, not confessing, being accused of murder, also meant certain punishment.

His lawyer advised him not to confess, claiming they could win the case.

But they had caught the informant, and the driver who kidnapped Xu Jinwan. The lawyer’s words and the police’s words clashed in his mind. During the last interrogation, they didn’t ask many questions, just brought him in, asked a few questions they had already asked before, a mere formality, they already had enough evidence to convict him.

Zhou Heng was on edge, his gaze constantly drifting towards the door.

Captain Zhou, looking at the computer screen, observed his every move. The officer monitoring the interrogation said, “Was he really the one behind Xu Jinwan’s disappearance?”

With his intelligence.

It didn’t seem likely.

Captain Zhou didn’t reply.

If Xu Jinwan hadn’t been killed, the plan would have been perfect, Fengyuan would have cleared its name, its image even improved, and the TV station would have been discredited, Xu Jinwan’s previous reports deemed false.

Killing three birds with one stone.

This plan didn’t seem like something Zhou Heng could come up with.

She said, “It wasn’t him, there must be someone else.”

Someone who wanted Xu Jinwan dead.

The officer watching the monitor said, “What a bastard, how’s Reporter You doing now?”

You Ruxu, back at the hospital, was coughing slightly from being exposed to the cold, but thankfully, her fever hadn’t returned. She took some medicine. The doctor said, “You can’t be running around like this, you need to rest.”

“I know.” You Ruxu said, “I’ll rest.”

The doctor, although unaware of why she went out, but knowing her profession and the reason she was hospitalized, said sympathetically, “You work too hard.”

You Ruxu said, “You’re the one who works hard.”

She offered the doctor a piece of fruit. The doctor smiled. You Ruxu also gave some fruit to the two police officers stationed outside her door and asked, “Now that you’ve caught the informant, does that mean the case is solved?”

The officer in front of her said, “Captain Zhou said they’re still waiting for Zhou Heng’s confession.”

You Ruxu nodded, taking a bite of the fruit. Remembering Yu Qiao’s expression earlier, the fruit suddenly tasted bitter and sour, difficult to swallow.

That night, she received a message from Zhou Tianzui: [I’m here.]

Knowing she was at the hospital, You Ruxu relaxed, her mood lifting slightly. Zhou Tianzui didn’t come to her ward, but sat in her office. He Wei said, “Dr. Zhou, is your cold better?”

Zhou Tianzui’s fever had subsided after taking medicine, but she had taken an extra day off to be with Yu Qiao. It was originally Fu Shushu’s turn for the night shift, but she had switched with Zhou Tianzui last time, so Zhou Tianzui was on duty tonight.

She nodded: “It’s gone.”

He Wei poured her a cup of hot tea. Lin Luo glanced at Zhou Tianzui, trying to find a topic of conversation. It was a quiet night, not much to do, everyone busy typing on their computers, updating patient files. He Wei, seeing Lin Luo still there, was surprised, “Are you working overtime?”

Lin Luo, her gaze on Zhou Tianzui, quickly looked away, “Yes, overtime, I have nothing to do at home anyway, might as well learn more here.”

He Wei’s lips twitched.

She had never seen anyone like this, others couldn’t wait to leave after work, but Lin Luo, not only did she stay, she even volunteered for overtime, was she a fool? She didn’t usually talk to Lin Luo, so she turned to another doctor, “Hey, have they found that missing baby from the maternity hospital yet?”

“Which one?” The doctor asked, then after a moment, “That newborn? No, it’s strange, they checked the surveillance footage, but couldn’t find anything.”

Zhou Tianzui looked up, “What baby?”

“Dr. Zhou, you haven’t heard?” He Wei said, “A newborn was taken from the maternity hospital two nights ago, they still haven’t found the baby.”

The family was frantic, but with the Fengyuan and Xu Jinwan incidents dominating the headlines, although the news was reported, many people still didn’t know about it, Zhou Tianzui included, “What about the surveillance footage?”

“They checked it.” He Wei said, “But there’s nothing, people online are even saying it’s an inside job.”

Lin Luo muttered, “How is that possible? If it was an inside job, why would they go to the hospital to give birth?”

Wouldn’t it be easier to do it at home?

He Wei said, “Who knows, but the rumors are getting wilder and wilder.”

Zhou Tianzui browsed the news, reading the brief report, the landline on her desk ringing. She answered, it was the director, “Dr. Zhou, disable the security system.”

Zhou Tianzui hung up and contacted the nurses’ station, asking them to disable the system.

Lin Luo asked, “Disable the security system?”

They didn’t usually disable it, it was inconvenient for visitors, sometimes people forgot their access cards and had to wait, which often led to complaints, it seemed the news about the missing baby had reached here as well. Zhou Tianzui said, “Go check if it’s been disabled yet.”

Lin Luo nodded, “Okay.”

He Wei chimed in, “Is it because of the maternity hospital incident?”

Zhou Tianzui glanced at her coldly. He Wei shrank back, hearing Zhou Tianzui say, “I’m going on my rounds, He Wei, come with me.”

They didn’t usually do rounds at night, but with the security system disabled, it was best to check on the patients, just in case. Zhou Tianzui and He Wei went from ward to ward. He Wei reported, “We admitted three expectant mothers today, one is ten days past her due date, currently on oxytocin, one scheduled for a C-section tomorrow, Dr. Fu’s patient, and the other one has been complaining of abdominal pain, but there’s no sign of labor yet, so she’s just staying in the ward for observation, they’re all sharing a room.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her, “Sharing a room?”

Each ward had three beds, but in their hospital, C-section patients were usually separated from natural birth patients. He Wei explained, “The C-section patient was originally assigned to room 22, but seeing it was empty, she said she was scared to stay alone, and insisted on being with other patients, so they moved her to room 21.”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t think much of it, changing wards was common. She entered ward 21. Two expectant mothers were eating fruit, chatting. The third one, lying on the bed furthest from the door, her husband sitting beside her, playing on his phone.

“What are you naming your baby? Have you decided on a name yet?”

“Not yet, my husband can’t make up his mind. You?”

“Same here, we’ve been looking through dictionaries these past two days. We’ll have a name by the time the baby’s born, but I’ve already decided on a nickname, ‘Manman’ (Slowly), since she’s taking her sweet time in my belly.” Ten days past her due date, oxytocin ineffective, needing a C-section now, her tone slightly exasperated, yet also filled with the gentle joy of an expectant mother. Zhou Tianzui walked over to the woman nearest to the door, “Is your stomach still hurting?”

“It’s not hurting anymore.” The woman said, “You’re Dr. Zhou, right?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes.”

“My sister-in-law had her C-section with you, she said you’re excellent at stitching, and told me to look for you.” Zhou Tianzui said, “All our doctors are excellent surgeons.”

“That’s true.” The woman smiled. Her husband peeled a tangerine for her, which she offered to Zhou Tianzui, “Dr. Zhou, want some?”

Zhou Tianzui shook her head, “No, thank you.”

She glanced at the woman in the furthest bed, who seemed to find their conversation disturbing. She had drawn the curtains, turning her back to them. Zhou Tianzui left the ward and returned to her office. He Wei commented, “People are so different.”

The doctor opposite her looked up, “What are you so sentimental about?”

He Wei said, “Just random thoughts, from our rounds just now, in ward 21, the husband of the woman in bed 63, acting as if his wife giving birth has nothing to do with him, so infuriating.”

“Bed 63? I know him.” The other doctor said, “That man is ridiculous, completely clueless, doesn’t even know how far along his wife is, about to give birth, and he doesn’t even know the last time she had a checkup.”

“Seriously, some people shouldn’t be parents.”

Zhou Tianzui sat at her computer, listening to their chatter, and looked out the window, the streetlights casting a bright glow, the roads clearly visible. She finished updating a patient’s file and took out her phone, messaging You Ruxu: [Are you asleep?]

You Ruxu quickly replied: [Not yet.]

Zhou Tianzui: [What are you doing?]

You Ruxu pursed her lips. She wasn’t doing anything, just lying there, unable to sleep, Yu Qiao’s cold gaze flashing in her mind every time she closed her eyes, like needles pricking her heart. After a moment, she replied: [Staring into space.]

Zhou Tianzui: [Thinking of me?]

You Ruxu: […]

Sometimes, she really liked Zhou Tianzui’s seemingly nonchalant attitude, as if she could handle anything, that Yu Qiao just needed a little more time, and she would accept them.

Zhou Tianzui kept giving her this hope.

You Ruxu, clinging to this hope, her mood lifting slightly, replied: [Yes.]

Zhou Tianzui: [Yes, what?]

You Ruxu paused for a few seconds, then typed: [Thinking of you.]

Zhou Tianzui: [Keep thinking then, I’m on duty tonight, can’t come over, I’ll come see you after my shift.]

You Ruxu’s gloomy mood instantly brightened. She replied: [Okay. Are you free tomorrow?]

Zhou Tianzui sent a question mark.

You Ruxu typed: [My aunt’s coming tomorrow, I can’t pick her up from the airport, could you?]

Zhou Tianzui: [Okay, say it again.]

You Ruxu: [Say what?]

Zhou Tianzui: [Say you miss me.]

You Ruxu pursed her lips, the corners of her mouth lifting slightly.

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Zhou Tianzui: Say you miss me.
You Ruxu: I miss you.
Zhou Tianzui: What do you miss about me?
You Ruxu: …