Category: Friend(GL)

Chapter 87: Like

You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui had a quickie before dinner. It had been a while since they had enjoyed such a carefree moment, and this time, for some reason, it felt especially fulfilling.

Exceptionally so.

The kissing was fulfilling, the embracing was fulfilling, even just looking at each other, doing nothing, felt fulfilling.

Zhou Tianzui thought.

She really, really liked You Ruxu.

She wanted to hold her like this forever, to be entangled with her forever, to be with her forever.

But their bodies wouldn’t allow it.

After a short rest, they were hungry. Zhou Tianzui asked what You Ruxu had made for dinner, and You Ruxu replied, “I haven’t started cooking yet, but they’re all your favorite dishes.”

She was making amends, naturally buying all of Zhou Tianzui’s favorites. But she hadn’t expected this interlude, it was almost midnight, and they hadn’t even had dinner yet. You Ruxu tried to sit up, her back aching, she frowned slightly. Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ll cook, you rest.”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll help you.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her, “Aren’t you tired?”

You Ruxu said, “Not really.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Then want to go another round?”

Her tone was serious, not like she was joking. You Ruxu was speechless, just looking at her. Zhou Tianzui chuckled, “I’ll go cook.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

She rarely exercised, yet she had so much energy.

You Ruxu stretched her legs, thinking Zhou Tianzui was extraordinary. She considered herself one of the more active people at the station, yet she couldn’t compare to Zhou Tianzui’s energy levels.

And it wasn’t just a one-time thing. You Ruxu remembered several times when she woke up in the middle of the night and accidentally woke Zhou Tianzui, who would then pester her for a while, yet still be full of energy for work the next day, seemingly unaffected, while she herself would have to force herself to focus. She decided to ask Zhou Tianzui to get a checkup, to see if her physiology was different from hers. Thinking of this, she smiled, burying her face in the pillow.

She was becoming as childish as Zhou Tianzui.

You Ruxu rested for a few minutes, then put on her pajamas and slippers and went out to the living room. Zhou Tianzui was busy in the kitchen. She offered to help, but Zhou Tianzui said, “Dinner will be ready soon, go take a bath.”

“Don’t you need my help?” You Ruxu looked at her, moving around so quickly and efficiently, even more impressed.

Zhou Tianzui said, “No, go ahead.”

You Ruxu hesitated, then went to the bathroom to fill the tub. The warm water soothed her aching muscles, relaxing her completely, almost making her fall asleep. She only got out when Zhou Tianzui called her. The bathtub was separate from the shower, a small jacuzzi Zhou Tianzui had installed after discussing it with the landlord. She used to enjoy soaking in it after work. You Ruxu had used it a few times as well. Before they defined their relationship, she rarely touched Zhou Tianzui’s things. Afterwards, they had been too busy, and she hadn’t used it much.

Every inch of her skin felt refreshed.

You Ruxu, her face slightly flushed from the steam, her eyes bright and clear, a hint of moisture, a hazy softness, walked out of the bathroom. Zhou Tianzui, placing the food in front of her, couldn’t resist pinching her cheek.

Her skin was soft and smooth, milky white. You Ruxu’s skincare routine wasn’t complicated, but meticulous, a delicate fragrance emanating from her pores. Zhou Tianzui loved it.

You Ruxu looked up slightly at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui’s fingertips still tingled from the touch of You Ruxu’s soft skin. You Ruxu, with her head tilted slightly, looked like a delicate doll, her beauty captivating.

Her usual aloofness blended perfectly with her current docility, creating an illusion of innocence.

Zhou Tianzui leaned down and kissed You Ruxu softly on the lips.

The sweet fragrance clung to her own skin as well.

She straightened up, taking a step back, her voice slightly tense, her gaze darkening a little, “Let’s eat.”

You Ruxu lowered her head and started eating. Zhou Tianzui sat opposite her. The living room was quiet, the warm, orange glow of the lights creating a cozy atmosphere. Zhou Tianzui broke the silence, “They still haven’t found Xu Jinwan?”

You Ruxu’s eating paused slightly, “Not yet.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “I saw online that it might be self-orchestrated, what’s that about?”

You Ruxu said, “It’s just a speculation.”

There were many inconsistencies, hence the speculation. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Really nothing to do with Zhou Heng?”

Not just Zhou Tianzui.

Many people online were also asking the same question.

Including those who knew Zhou Heng.

The manager of Fengyuan was puzzled. Zhou Heng, after meeting with Shi Qi that day, had been furious, even threatening to deal with Shi Qi and You Ruxu. But after two days, nothing happened. And even after Xu Jinwan’s report, he was still calm?

This wasn’t the Zhou Heng he knew.

And his move today, suing the TV station while Xu Jinwan was missing, was brilliant. It wasn’t that he didn’t think Zhou Heng was capable of such a thing, as the owner of Fengyuan, he had the means and the guts, he could even handle the aftermath, but Zhou Heng had a temper, he was easily angered. With the V1 issue, if he hadn’t insisted on using his friend’s company, causing dissatisfaction among the board members, leading to their attacks during the meeting, he would have been able to handle the situation calmly, instead of acting impulsively.

Now, he was acting like a shrewd businessman.

That Zhou Heng could actually be patient was surprising.

But this way, Fengyuan might actually weather the storm. The online sentiment towards Fengyuan was already shifting in a positive direction, he had noticed.

And Zhou Heng had noticed it too.

Zhou Heng stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows in his office, looking at the brightly lit city below, like a city that never sleeps. Who would have thought that ten days ago, he had been struggling with the V1 issue and the news reports, and now, he could leisurely sip his red wine, even asking the person beside him, “How’s the wine?”

“It’s good.” Chen Jiushu’s voice was cold and indifferent as he sat on the sofa in his perfectly tailored suit, looking at Zhou Heng.

Zhou Heng said, “I owe you one for this.”

Chen Jiushu said, “You’re welcome, Mr. Zhou, I’m just doing my job. When to release Xu Jinwan, that’s up to you.”

Zhou Heng swirled his wine, wanting to vent all his anger, accumulated from his encounter with Jindu TV, onto Xu Jinwan, but he knew it wasn’t the right time. Suppressed his anger. “Tomorrow, release her tomorrow.”

“And the USB drive?”

“The evidence on it was fake anyway.” Zhou Heng took a sip of wine, a glint of anticipation in his eyes, looking forward to the drama that would unfold when Xu Jinwan returned. Chen Jiushu also raised his glass, looked at Zhou Heng, and smiled.

The night concealed their silent exchange.

The wind howled, the rain drizzled. Before eleven o’clock, it started raining. You Ruxu looked at the increasingly heavy rain outside and frowned. Zhou Tianzui emerged from the kitchen and, seeing her standing by the window, walked over and asked, “What are you looking at?”

“It’s raining.” You Ruxu said, “Makes searching more difficult.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “If it’s really Zhou Heng, it’s a good thing.”

You Ruxu looked at her, “Why?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “If it’s him, he won’t harm her, he’s suing the TV station now because she’s not around, there’s no so-called evidence. All he needs to do is destroy the evidence and then bring Xu Jinwan back.”

“Xu Jinwan won’t be able to defend herself.”

You Ruxu nodded.

This was also a possibility she had considered. If it was Zhou Heng, it would ensure Xu Jinwan’s safety, because in the current situation, he was the one who least wanted anything to happen to her.

Without the evidence, even if Xu Jinwan reappeared, she would be criticized, accused of fabricating the story, of staging her disappearance.

Xu Jinwan would be completely defenseless.

Zhou Tianzui said, “And didn’t you say it’s highly likely her informant was involved?”

You Ruxu nodded.

Zhou Tianzui continued, “Then it’s even worse for Xu Jinwan.”

The informant was on Xu Jinwan’s side, the evidence was “lost” because of her, the disappearance because she didn’t reappear. As long as the lawsuit proceeded, Fengyuan would be in an advantageous position.

But this way, Xu Jinwan would be safe.

You Ruxu paused, then sighed.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What’s wrong?”

“I was just thinking, I hope it was Zhou Heng.” A ridiculous thought, a reporter hoping for someone to commit a crime. But if it was Zhou Heng, it would ensure Xu Jinwan’s safety.

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s understandable, if it were me, I would also hope it was Zhou Heng.”

Because it meant the person was safe, that they would return.

As for the evidence, they could always find more.

It was choosing the lesser of two evils.

They just didn’t want anything worse to happen to Xu Jinwan.

You Ruxu looked out the window. The rain was still falling, showing no signs of stopping. Zhou Tianzui hugged her from behind, the atmosphere quiet, the drumming of the rain against the windowpane strangely unsettling.

Night fell.

Zhou Tianzui went to the bathroom to wash up. You Ruxu sat on the bed, checking for updates from the station. There was still no news about Xu Jinwan. After thinking for a moment, she called Captain Zhou.

Captain Zhou, wearing a raincoat, stood at the intersection, watching the cars and the few pedestrians hurrying past. The alley was deserted, no streetlights, only the faint glow from the distant streetlights, and with the rain, visibility was even worse, the sky a dark and oppressive gray.

Just as her team member was about to speak, her phone rang. Captain Zhou raised a hand, silencing him.

It was You Ruxu.

Captain Zhou’s voice lowered slightly, “Reporter You?”

You Ruxu said, “It’s me, I still think Zhou Heng is highly suspicious.”

After much deliberation, she still felt it was best to inform Captain Zhou. Captain Zhou said, “I know.”

You Ruxu said, “I was followed before.”

Captain Zhou’s voice became alert: “When?”

The wind howled through the receiver. You Ruxu said, “After the car accident, just once.”

It was while she was still in the hospital, when she went out with Yao Zhao. She hadn’t been followed since, because that time, it had been too obvious, as if they wanted her to see them. She hadn’t mentioned it, not wanting to provide misleading information, but now, with Xu Jinwan’s disappearance, and the possibility of Zhou Heng being involved, but no evidence, perhaps they could investigate that incident.

You Ruxu gave Captain Zhou the details.

Captain Zhou said, “I understand, I’ll contact you if we find anything.”

You Ruxu agreed.

Before she could hang up, Zhou Tianzui entered the room, a towel wrapped around her head, drying her damp hair, her face glowing in the warm light, wearing a beige silk nightgown like flowing water. She walked over to You Ruxu and asked, looking down, “Who was that?”

You Ruxu had already hung up, she was still holding the phone, Captain Zhou’s name on the screen. She looked up at Zhou Tianzui, whose eyes were clear and bright, her long, thick eyelashes slightly curled, casting shadows, her gaze intense as she looked at You Ruxu, who started to say, “It was Cap—”

Remembering Zhou Tianzui’s usual teasing.

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui, looking at her, asked in her familiar cool tone, “Captain who?”

You Ruxu, hearing that familiar tone, smiled faintly, her gaze softening. She said, “Zhou Tianzui, I like you.”

Zhou Tianzui froze.

Her heart pounded, her limbs numb.

Chapter 86: Important

After the routine questioning, Zhou Tianzui remembered seeing Xu Jinwan at the mall and told Captain Zhou. You Ruxu asked, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

Zhou Tianzui glanced at her and didn’t answer.

You Ruxu’s heart sank. She looked at Zhou Tianzui, her profile tense, her expression serious.

Zhou Tianzui was angry.

Although her expression seemed no different from usual to others, You Ruxu knew she was angry. Was it because she took over the Fengyuan case, or because she didn’t tell her beforehand?

You Ruxu bit her lip and stood silently.

Captain Zhou, after asking a few more questions, received a call and was called away. She asked You Ruxu, “Are you coming?”

You Ruxu shook her head: “You go ahead.”

Captain Zhou said goodbye to Zhou Tianzui and left. The office was quiet. You Ruxu called out, “Zhou Tianzui.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Zhou Tianzui frowned, her usual stern demeanor even colder now, an unapproachable aura. You Ruxu said, “I was planning to tell you when we got home tonight.”

“Tell me?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Am I only worthy of being informed after the fact?”

You Ruxu said, “That’s not it.”

“Then what is it?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Isn’t that exactly what you did? Before taking over the Fengyuan story, did you ask me? Did you discuss it with me? Why would you take over, knowing that Xu Jinwan is missing?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m the only one at the station who’s familiar with the Fengyuan case.”

“So?” Zhou Tianzui’s voice was low and laced with anger. “You’re familiar with the case, but not the risks involved?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m aware…”

“Then why did you still take it?” Zhou Tianzui’s anger, simmering since You Ruxu’s phone call at noon, now erupted. You Ruxu hadn’t mentioned taking over the Fengyuan case, she should have discussed it with her.

It was different now, the awkwardness between them gone, they were supposed to be the closest, she didn’t want to be just someone who was informed.

But You Ruxu still chose to just inform her.

This fueled Zhou Tianzui’s anger, which she had suppressed while talking to Captain Zhou. Now, with no one else present, she couldn’t contain it any longer.

You Ruxu said, “I just want to find Xu Jinwan as soon as possible.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her, “Does finding Xu Jinwan quickly have anything to do with informing me? Did I say you couldn’t take the case?”

No, she hadn’t.

Zhou Tianzui had never interfered with You Ruxu’s work, no matter how dangerous. She would just tell her to be careful, to stay safe. She would never forbid You Ruxu from pursuing a story.

You Ruxu looked down.

Zhou Tianzui hadn’t meant to lash out at her, she just couldn’t control her emotions. She looked away, and there was a knock on the door, Lin Luo calling out, “Dr. Zhou, the director wants to see you.”

Zhou Tianzui said to Lin Luo, “I’ll be right there.”

She didn’t look at You Ruxu, didn’t say goodbye, just walked out.

You Ruxu stood in the office, a sudden silence, a silence that made her heart race. Zhou Tianzui’s moods used to be unpredictable, her temper fluctuating, but she rarely got truly angry, better at hiding her emotions than You Ruxu.

You Ruxu followed her out of the office. Zhou Tianzui went to the director’s office. Doctors and nurses bustled in the corridor. She reached the director’s office, the door closed. She stood there, and her phone rang. It was Captain Zhou, saying she was going to the abandoned building, asking if You Ruxu wanted to come. You Ruxu hesitated for a moment, then turned and left the hospital.

The police car was waiting for her downstairs. You Ruxu got in. Captain Zhou, driving, asked, “Something on your mind?”

You Ruxu turned to her, “No.”

“Worried about Xu Jinwan?” Captain Zhou said, “We’ve expanded the search area, we should have some results soon.”

You Ruxu asked, “Have you found her informant?”

“Not yet.” Captain Zhou said, “We’re still analyzing her computer, hoping to find some clues.”

Currently, they didn’t know who the informant was, the USB drive was missing, and the only “evidence” they had were from Xu Jinwan’s chat logs, which wouldn’t hold up against Fengyuan’s lawsuit.

Public opinion had shifted, some of those who had initially criticized Fengyuan were now questioning Xu Jinwan.

Captain Zhou asked, “Do you think Xu Jinwan orchestrated her own disappearance?”

You Ruxu said, “Fifty-fifty.”

Captain Zhou chuckled, “Always so cautious.”

It wasn’t just caution. Without any concrete evidence, any possibility was valid, but she felt it was more likely that it wasn’t staged. For Xu Jinwan to leave her apartment so late at night, wearing pajamas, she must have been meeting someone she knew well, and currently, this person was the prime suspect.

This person, bribed by Fengyuan?

But why would Xu Jinwan meet this person, and bring the USB drive with the evidence?

Unless, this person was also connected to Fengyuan, and the USB drive.

You Ruxu said, “I remember she said she had evidence.”

Captain Zhou nodded.

You Ruxu said, “Where did she get the evidence?”

Captain Zhou said, “Someone sent her a message.”

Mentioning the evidence.

But that message only contained four simple words, I have evidence.

What evidence?

What if it was about the V1?

Xu Jinwan had called the number later, but there was only a call log, no other information. And the number hadn’t contacted her again.

They checked the number, it was an international number.

You Ruxu said, “International? Could it be Zhou Heng’s brother?”

Captain Zhou said, “We’re also trying to contact Mr. Zhou.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

The biggest problem now was this evidence. If Xu Jinwan’s evidence was real, then how did she obtain it? Why did she bring it with her that night? It was highly likely that the person who provided the evidence was also the one who asked her to meet.

Even more likely.

This person was Xu Jinwan’s “informant.”

If the evidence was fake.

Then it would confirm that Xu Jinwan staged her own disappearance.

You Ruxu said, “Could it be that the informant was bribed by Fengyuan?”

Captain Zhou said, “That’s a possibility.”

The informant, bribed by Fengyuan, kidnapped Xu Jinwan? No, that didn’t seem right either.

You Ruxu felt they were missing something. She lowered her head, lost in thought. Captain Zhou said, “We’re here.”

The abandoned building was right in front of them. There was only one residential complex nearby, no shops, the nearest surveillance camera was by the roadside, quite far from here. You Ruxu followed Captain Zhou inside, “Is this where Xu Jinwan met with her informant?”

Captain Zhou asked, “Why do you say that?”

You Ruxu said, “Before she went in, no one at the station mentioned anything about evidence, but after she came out, she said she had a big story, so it’s highly likely the exchange happened here.”

Captain Zhou nodded.

But the building was only half-finished, no lights, no proper pathways, just dirt, cement, and construction materials scattered everywhere, easy to trip over.

This place was quite secluded.

Difficult to navigate even during the day, let alone at night.

You Ruxu asked, “Is there anyone in charge of this place?”

Captain Zhou said, “There is, but he’s gone back to his hometown for the New Year. We’ve already contacted him.”

You Ruxu nodded. Just as Captain Zhou finished speaking, a man in his fifties, bundled up in thick winter clothes, hurried over. Hearing that Xu Jinwan was here last night, Captain Zhou asked if he had seen her before. He said, “I don’t know, many people come here, especially after the developer ran off, people often come here at night to steal cement, steel bars, pipes, it’s impossible to stop them all.”

You Ruxu asked, “Why not install security cameras?”

“No one cares enough to.” The man clearly wasn’t really in charge. After the developer ran off, the government took over, but construction hadn’t resumed, and the materials hadn’t been inventoried. His title was “person in charge,” but it was just a formality, he just came by every day to check, turning a blind eye to the theft. The people nearby weren’t wealthy, stealing materials to repair their houses was understandable, so he didn’t interfere.

Asking further, he didn’t know anything else.

He wasn’t here last night, he said he was at his hometown.

This place was so large, forget finding any traces from last night, even finding a person would be difficult. You Ruxu followed Captain Zhou and a small search team inside. There was a lot of garbage scattered around. You Ruxu went to the right. The man in charge looked around, then followed You Ruxu, telling her to call him if she needed anything.

You Ruxu nodded, not speaking.

The man said, “Are you close with Xu Jinwan?”

You Ruxu looked at him.

The man chuckled awkwardly, “You’re the only one from your TV station here.”

You Ruxu said, “You know which station I’m from?”

“I often watch your news reports.” The man said, “Was she kidnapped?”

You Ruxu said, “There’s no conclusion yet.”

The man smiled, a simple, honest smile. He looked at You Ruxu, their eyes meeting, and You Ruxu asked, “Do you have something to tell me?”

“No.” The man said firmly, “Nothing.”

You Ruxu watched him return to the entrance. She returned to her search. They searched all afternoon, but found nothing. Time was running out. More and more police officers were dispatched, preparing to search through the night. Captain Zhou said, “It’s getting late, should I drive you home?”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll take a taxi, you’re busy.”

Captain Zhou didn’t insist.

You Ruxu got into a taxi. The radio was reporting on Xu Jinwan’s disappearance. She opened the window, the cold air clearing her head. The driver sneezed twice. You Ruxu closed the window and said, “Sorry.”

The driver chuckled, “You’re quite resistant to the cold, young lady.”

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

She lowered her head and typed on her phone, then took out a pen and paper from her bag. The traffic was slow, and she wrote quickly, filling half a page before they arrived. She got out of the taxi, bought some crispy pastries from a nearby shop, and returned home. Zhou Tianzui wasn’t there.

You Ruxu looked at the time, Zhou Tianzui said she wasn’t working overtime today, why wasn’t she home yet? Remembering their argument at the hospital, she called Zhou Tianzui.

Several rings.

Zhou Tianzui was sitting in her car. You Ruxu had already left when she came out of the director’s office. You Ruxu hadn’t called or messaged her all afternoon. She was still sulking, sitting in her car, not going home.

Seeing You Ruxu’s call, she almost hung up.

So childish.

She mocked her own childishness, but her hand, disobeying her mind, answered the call.

You Ruxu’s voice was softer than usual: “Where are you?”

Zhou Tianzui swallowed the cold words on the tip of her tongue, “In the car.”

You Ruxu asked, “When will you be home?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “A little while longer.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay, I’ll wait for you.”

Zhou Tianzui hung up, rubbed her temples, slapped her face lightly, then got out of the car and entered the elevator, all in one smooth motion.

You Ruxu had just entered the kitchen when she heard a noise at the door. She walked over, Zhou Tianzui took off her jacket and entered, her expression tense. Before, when there was tension between them, neither would initiate reconciliation, it was as if it wasn’t needed, they would just sleep, and the next day, everything would be fine, or rather, they deliberately ignored those moments of conflict, because they had no defined relationship.

No relationship, no right to be angry.

Back then, Zhou Tianzui was also good at hiding her emotions, if she was truly angry, she would just make a few sarcastic remarks, and You Ruxu would endure it. But it was different now.

You Ruxu said, “There are crispy pastries on the table, have some if you’re hungry, I just started cooking the rice.”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t speak, just walked over to the sofa and sat down.

She looked down, not at the pastries, but at a piece of paper beside them.

A full page, densely filled with characters.

The title, simple and straightforward.

Letter of Apology.

Zhou Tianzui, who had been sulking, chuckled, a mixture of amusement and exasperation, seeing this. She picked up the paper. You Ruxu’s handwriting was elegant and beautiful, just like her name, flowing like calligraphy.

She read the letter while eating a crispy pastry, it tasted sweet.

You Ruxu, coming out of the kitchen, saw the softened expression on Zhou Tianzui’s face. She pursed her lips and walked over. Zhou Tianzui, holding up the paper, asked, “What’s this?”

Asking the obvious.

You Ruxu said, “An apology letter.”

Zhou Tianzui’s lips curved into a smile, pretending indifference despite her obvious pleasure, “Who taught you this?”

You Ruxu asked, “Don’t you like it?”

Zhou Tianzui loved it to death, but she still said, “It’s alright.” She reread the letter carefully, placed it on the coffee table, a remote control on top as a paperweight, and said, “You think you can just appease me with an apology letter?”

You Ruxu said, “And crispy pastries.”

Zhou Tianzui: “That’s it?”

You Ruxu said, “I also made you dinner.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Anything else?”

You Ruxu said, “What more do you want?”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her intently. You Ruxu pursed her lips, about to stand up, when Zhou Tianzui leaned in and bit her hard on the lip.

Harder than before.

Hard enough to bring tears to You Ruxu’s eyes.

But she still didn’t say anything, just endured it silently.

Zhou Tianzui said in exasperation, “Blockhead.”

She said, “It’s not like I forbade you from investigating.”

You Ruxu said, “I know.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “You know? Then why didn’t you discuss it with me?”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll discuss it with you next time.”

“Next time?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Next time, could you please, consider your own safety before taking on a story?”

She looked at You Ruxu, “A Ran, maybe in your eyes, news is more important than anything else, but to me, you are more important than anything else.”

“So I want you to think about yourself, even if I’m in danger, I don’t want you to do anything risky, understand?”

You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, her eyes welling up. She didn’t speak.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Does it hurt?”

Her finger gently touched You Ruxu’s bitten lip. You Ruxu said, “It hurts.”

Zhou Tianzui’s heart ached. She was about to lean closer to examine it when You Ruxu suddenly hugged her, her head lowered, her lips brushing against Zhou Tianzui’s neck, and then, gently biting her.

Zhou Tianzui’s heart skipped a beat.

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Zhou Tianzui: My wife wrote me a love letter.
You Ruxu: …

Chapter 85: Find Her

Zhou Tianzui finally had time to call You Ruxu during her lunch break. You Ruxu’s side was noisy, with people talking in the background. You Ruxu said, “One moment.”

The sound of footsteps moving away, then silence.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Where are you?”

“In the meeting room.” You Ruxu said, “No one’s here right now.”

The midday news team was busy. It wasn’t her turn for the live broadcast today, so she had some free time. Zhou Tianzui had just finished lunch, feeling a little tired, resting in her chair, listening to You Ruxu ask, “Have you eaten yet?”

She said, “Yes.”

You Ruxu asked again, “What about breakfast?”

Zhou Tianzui chuckled, “Am I three years old?”

You Ruxu pursed her lips, looking at the people coming and going outside the meeting room, “Are you working overtime today?”

“Not unless something comes up.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Should I pick you up tonight?”

You Ruxu said, “Okay.”

She softly called out, “Zhou Tianzui…”

He Wei knocked on Zhou Tianzui’s office door, “Dr. Zhou, patient in bed two is asking for you.”

You Ruxu said, “You go ahead, I’ll wait.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What were you going to say?”

You Ruxu said, “Something came up, I’ll tell you after work.”

Zhou Tianzui frowned slightly, wanting to ask, but seeing He Wei still waiting at the door, she said, “Okay, we’ll talk after work.”

After hanging up, You Ruxu stood by the meeting room window, looking outside. A police car arrived. She smoothed her clothes, checked her reflection in the mirror, and went downstairs. Captain Zhou saw her as soon as she entered, calling out, “Reporter You.”

You Ruxu walked over. She and Captain Zhou had worked together several times and were familiar with each other. Without much preamble, she asked, “Have you found Xu Jinwan?”

“Not yet.” Captain Zhou said, “We’ve checked all the vehicles that passed through the area during that time, but no sign of her.”

It was as if she vanished into thin air after entering that alley, without a trace.

There were no cameras in the alley itself, just a few on the nearby shops, but most of them were pointed inside the stores, only two or three facing the street. The distance was too far, the alley entrance not visible.

And it was past ten o’clock at night.

Too dark.

You Ruxu and Captain Zhou took the elevator to Team 1’s office. The team leader was looking at the messages Xu Jinwan sent before she disappeared, hoping to find a clue, but there was nothing unusual, the conversations perfectly normal.

Xu Jinwan hadn’t mentioned meeting anyone.

Captain Zhou sat on the sofa, a cup of warm water in front of her. She asked, “Does she usually use just one phone for work?”

The team leader said, “No.”

“She has a separate phone for contacting informants.”

Informants weren’t uncommon in their line of work, but they mostly contacted reporters, rarely anchors. The team leader said, “She cultivated these contacts when she was a reporter, there’s only one informant she’s still in regular contact with now.”

Captain Zhou looked at her, her expression serious, “Do you know this person?”

“No, I don’t.” Although reporters’ informants were different from police informants, the confidentiality was similar. Usually, only the reporter themselves would be in contact, their identity not revealed to others, to protect them.

Captain Zhou said, “Do you know the number of this other phone?”

The team leader shook her head.

You Ruxu, looking at Captain Zhou, suggested, “What about checking the registered phone numbers under Xu Jinwan’s name?”

Captain Zhou said, “She only registered one number.”

In other words, the other phone wasn’t registered under her name, perhaps to protect the informant. But this made the investigation more difficult.

The team leader looked at Captain Zhou, “What about Zhou Heng? What did he say?”

Captain Zhou said, “He claims he doesn’t know Xu Jinwan.”

This was clearly a lie. With how closely Xu Jinwan had been pursuing the Fengyuan story recently, there was no way Zhou Heng didn’t know about her, but he claimed he didn’t know her, and the police couldn’t do anything without evidence.

“How could he not know her?” The team leader said, “Besides Fengyuan, who else would do such a thing?”

Captain Zhou remained silent.

Zhou Heng’s exact words were that Xu Jinwan’s disappearance was most likely self-orchestrated, that her claims of having evidence against him were a deliberate attempt to create buzz, and now, unable to maintain the charade, she wanted to back out as the “victim,” shifting the blame onto Fengyuan, and then after a few days, reappear, claiming the evidence was stolen.

All the attention and sympathy, all for Xu Jinwan.

Such things weren’t unheard of.

The office was quiet. There was a sudden knock on the door. The team leader opened it. Her assistant stood outside, his expression anxious, “Mr. Zhou is suing us.”

The team leader’s grip on the doorknob tightened.

You Ruxu’s face darkened.

Zhou Heng was suing the TV station for defamation, just fourteen hours after Xu Jinwan’s disappearance. While a search was underway for Xu Jinwan, the news of the lawsuit was already online.

The station was in chaos, a tense atmosphere permeating every department.

The initial reaction online was mockery, then some netizens started saying there was indeed no evidence, that while the V1 issue was undeniable, they had no proof regarding Zhou Heng and his brother, wasn’t it unfair to convict him without evidence? And if they really had evidence, wouldn’t the police have found it during their investigation abroad?

Rational voices emerged, citing similar past incidents, where a media worker fabricated a story for attention, then staged their own disappearance.

Xu Jinwan, whose safety people were concerned about just this morning, was now being suspected of orchestrating the whole thing. The shift in public opinion was swift.

Chen Xiang said, “Staged her own disappearance? Really?”

Although she despised Xu Jinwan for stealing the story, she didn’t think she would do such a thing.

You Ruxu’s brow furrowed deeply. Zhou Heng’s timing for the lawsuit was perfect. Although they were being criticized relentlessly this morning, the lawsuit shifted the focus, silencing many of the critics. And they hadn’t responded to any of Xu Jinwan’s accusations before, which was interpreted as guilt. Now, they claimed they were gathering evidence for the lawsuit.

A seemingly reasonable explanation.

Xu Jinwan’s image instantly transformed.

You Ruxu remained silent.

The editor beside Chen Xiang said, “Xu Jinwan staged her own disappearance? I was thinking Fengyuan kidnapped her, stole the evidence, and that’s why they’re suing us.”

That was also a possibility.

It was like an online debate, one topic branching into another. Xu Jinwan’s role kept changing, her supporters claiming she was brave for revealing the truth, now being targeted in retaliation, even speculating that Fengyuan was hiding her and had stolen the evidence, which was why they dared to sue the station now. The other side held the opposite view, claiming Xu Jinwan orchestrated everything, that no one had ever seen the so-called evidence. If she really had evidence, she would have given it to the police, even if she wanted an exclusive, it wouldn’t have prevented her from handing over the evidence, but she hadn’t. The two sides argued endlessly.

Bringing up You Ruxu’s car accident from a few days ago.

You Ruxu hadn’t deliberately hidden her accident. At the time, because of Xu Jinwan’s report, many people were paying attention, but she had never denied the police report, which stated that the driver who hit her had no connection to Fengyuan. Combined with Xu Jinwan’s mention of the accident in her report, many people assumed there was a connection. So those supporting Fengyuan used this incident to attack Xu Jinwan, claiming she was just chasing clout.

The debate continued, even reaching Jindu TV, people asking You Ruxu what was going on.

You Ruxu, rubbing her temples, heard Chen Xiang say, “Teacher You, the boss said you shouldn’t respond yet.”

You Ruxu understood, if she responded now, it would only worsen the situation for Xu Jinwan, not only damaging the TV station’s image, but also making it more difficult to find her.

The priority now was Xu Jinwan’s safety.

You Ruxu stood up, took her laptop. Chen Xiang asked, “Teacher You, where are you going?”

You Ruxu said, “To see Captain Zhou.”

Captain Zhou was still at Team 1, questioning their members, trying to find any information about the informant. Currently, besides Zhou Heng, this informant was also a key suspect. For Xu Jinwan to leave her apartment at ten o’clock, dressed so casually, it had to be someone she knew. If it was an ordinary acquaintance, there would be some form of communication, but her phone records showed no contact with anyone during that time, except for her team leader, which meant another possibility, that the informant had asked her to meet.

But if the informant asked her to meet, why would she bring the USB drive with the evidence?

Fengyuan was also focusing on this point.

Claiming that Xu Jinwan staged her own disappearance.

When You Ruxu arrived at Team 1’s office, Captain Zhou had just finished questioning everyone and was closing her notebook. She heard You Ruxu say, “I also saw Xu Jinwan last night.”

Captain Zhou turned her head: “When? Where?”

You Ruxu said, “At Hongguang Residential Complex, there’s an abandoned building nearby, she went inside.”

Captain Zhou nodded, they had already investigated Xu Jinwan’s movements yesterday, and she had indeed been to the abandoned building, but they hadn’t found anything there. Captain Zhou asked, “Were you alone?”

“No.” You Ruxu said, “Zhou Tianzui was with me.”

Captain Zhou looked at her. Before this, You Ruxu always called her “Dr. Zhou,” although they lived together, there was always a formal politeness between them, but hearing her call Zhou Tianzui by her name now, it felt different.

Captain Zhou said, “Okay, I’ll take your statement later, I’ll also go to the hospital to see Dr. Zhou.”

You Ruxu said, “I’ll go with you.”

Captain Zhou said, “Alright.”

They got into the police car. You Ruxu looked out the window, then after a while, looked away, took out her phone, and messaged Zhou Tianzui: [Are you working? Are you busy?]

There was no reply.

As they neared the hospital, You Ruxu called Zhou Tianzui, no answer, she must be in surgery.

Zhou Tianzui was indeed in the operating room, delivering a premature baby. The surgery went smoothly, both mother and child were safe. Zhou Tianzui came out of the operating room, removing her mask, opened the door, and saw You Ruxu standing outside. Her expression softened, a smile about to appear on her lips, when she noticed Captain Zhou beside You Ruxu.

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Zhou Tianzui: Why is today’s lunch so sour?
You Ruxu: …

Chapter 84: I’ll Take It

You Ruxu was jolted awake by her ringing phone. She was used to the sound of her alarm clock, the sudden ringing of her phone disorienting her. She fumbled for it and answered. It was Shi Qi, “Xu Jinwan is missing.”

You Ruxu sat up abruptly, the blanket sliding down to cover Zhou Tianzui. It was still dark outside, the streetlights still on. You Ruxu glanced at the time on her phone; it was 5:30 am. She said, “Missing?”

Shi Qi said, “We haven’t been able to reach her since last night.”

After ten o’clock last night, Xu Jinwan had been discussing the Fengyuan news story with her team leader on WeChat, then suddenly stopped replying. The team leader assumed she was busy organizing information and didn’t think much of it, sending her a couple more messages. But there was no response. At midnight, sensing something was wrong, the team leader called her, her phone was off.

She went to Xu Jinwan’s apartment, but no one was there.

The station immediately called the police. With the recent Fengyuan incident, no one dared take it lightly, the police dispatched immediately, but they couldn’t find her. Xu Jinwan had left her apartment at ten o’clock. Security footage showed her leaving the complex, then entering a blind spot, disappearing from view. There was an alley near the complex, a blind spot not covered by cameras. Beyond the alley was a busy commercial area, crowded with people and cars, making it difficult to search.

But it was late at night, less traffic than during the day. They had already started searching.

You Ruxu asked, “What about Zhou Heng?”

“Zhou Heng was at his villa all night.” Even if it was related to Zhou Heng, he wouldn’t necessarily be directly involved, but the investigation would naturally focus on him. Shi Qi said, “Come to the station immediately, we need to assist the morning news team.”

Although there was usually friction between the teams, in times of crisis, they were united.

You Ruxu said, “I understand.”

She quickly got out of bed and heard Zhou Tianzui ask, “What’s wrong?”

You Ruxu said, “Something happened to Xu Jinwan.”

Zhou Tianzui sat up, “What happened?” You Ruxu said, “She’s missing.”

“Missing?” Zhou Tianzui frowned, “She was fine yesterday.”

You Ruxu, changing her clothes, said, “I’m going to the station to see what’s going on.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ll drive you.”

You Ruxu said, “No need…”

“You can sleep in the car.” Zhou Tianzui said, “You’ve been too tired recently.”

You Ruxu’s hands paused. She turned to look at Zhou Tianzui, pursed her lips, a warmth spreading through her heart. She said, “Then you’ll be tired.”

“What choice do I have?” Zhou Tianzui said, “My girlfriend is so busy.”

She stood up, walked over to You Ruxu, and said, “If you feel that guilty, you can kiss me…”

You Ruxu pinched her cheek. Zhou Tianzui hissed softly. You Ruxu chuckled and went to the bathroom to wash up. Zhou Tianzui followed. They soon came out, You Ruxu’s makeup light and elegant. She carried her laptop bag and some documents, following Zhou Tianzui. Before getting into the car, she looked out the window. The streetlights were gradually being dimmed by the rising sun. She said, “It’s almost dawn.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, almost dawn.”

On the way, Zhou Tianzui told You Ruxu to sleep, so You Ruxu leaned back in her seat, closed her eyes, but couldn’t fall asleep. She opened her eyes and looked out the window. Suddenly, a hand reached over and covered her eyes, a familiar scent, a soft touch. You Ruxu blinked, her eyelashes brushing against Zhou Tianzui’s palm, and asked, “What are you doing?”

“Go to sleep.” Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ll wake you when we arrive.”

You Ruxu closed her eyes in the darkness, leaning against the seat, although Zhou Tianzui’s hand was only there for a moment, it felt as if it was still there, a comforting presence.

Her breathing was shallow. At a red light, Zhou Tianzui turned and looked at her beautiful profile, a sudden urge to kiss her.

The light turned green, and she suppressed the urge, turning onto another street, then entering the TV station gates. Perhaps because of Xu Jinwan’s disappearance, the station was brightly lit. Zhou Tianzui unfastened You Ruxu’s seatbelt, a soft click. You Ruxu opened her eyes, “We’re here?”

Zhou Tianzui: “Yes, we’re here.”

You Ruxu nodded: “Then I’ll be going.” She added, “Don’t forget to have breakfast.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “You haven’t eaten either.”

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “I know.”

She watched as You Ruxu opened the car door, then suddenly called out, “A Ran.”

You Ruxu turned around.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Be careful.”

You Ruxu wanted to say she wasn’t going to investigate the news, but she didn’t, just nodded at Zhou Tianzui, “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui watched her enter the TV station. A few more cars arrived soon after, including a police car. She turned the car around and left.

There was still no news about Xu Jinwan.

The police had checked many vehicles, but found no clues about her disappearance. Chen Xiang, sitting at her computer, said, “She must have gone to meet someone she knew.”

There was no doubt about it.

Xu Jinwan left her apartment at ten o’clock, wearing pajamas under a down jacket and slippers, clearly going to see someone she knew.

Shi Qi said, “There are no call logs.”

The police had already checked her phone records, there were no calls around that time. It didn’t seem like a prearranged meeting either, as she wouldn’t have been dressed like that if it was. So, the investigation naturally focused on Fengyuan, but it was just speculation, they didn’t even have any evidence.

You Ruxu asked, “What about the evidence she mentioned last night?”

“We haven’t found it.” Shi Qi said, “She said it was on a USB drive.”

Xu Jinwan had told the team leader about it last night, even saying she would send a copy to him as a backup, but they hadn’t received anything.

You Ruxu said, “So the evidence is also gone?”

Shi Qi nodded.

So, Zhou Heng was the prime suspect. But no one had seen the evidence, they couldn’t investigate just based on Xu Jinwan’s words. They could only ask Zhou Heng to cooperate at most. You Ruxu, rubbing her temples, heard Shi Qi say, “Xiao Xu, you’re helping with the morning news later.”

You Ruxu nodded.

Before the morning news broadcast, news of Xu Jinwan’s disappearance leaked, and it spread like wildfire, especially with the recent Fengyuan incident and You Ruxu’s car accident. The public was outraged.

[No law and order anymore? These capitalists can do whatever they want?]

[I can’t believe this, they even dare kidnap a TV anchor?]

[Technically, she’s just missing.]

[Has Zhou Heng gone crazy?]

[Didn’t you hear? Xu Jinwan said she had evidence against Zhou Heng, evidence about his brother’s accident, and then she was immediately…]

[@Jindu Auxiliary Police @Jindu Public Security Bureau, are you planning to cover this up as well?]

Zhou Tianzui was browsing the news on her phone during breakfast when she received several notifications and heard her colleagues behind her discussing, “Xu Jinwan is missing?”

“Wasn’t You Ruxu’s car accident also because she was investigating Fengyuan?”

“I’ve seen Zhou Heng before, he doesn’t look like a good person.”

“Has Zhou Heng been to our hospital?”

“Yes, a few days ago, because of the car accident, a pregnant woman was injured, he came here.”

Whispers all around her. Zhou Tianzui held her phone, absently eating a few spoonfuls of porridge. Zhao Mingqi, carrying his breakfast, sat opposite her, “Dr. Zhou, heard the news? Xu Jinwan is missing.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Who reported it?”

“I don’t know.” Zhao Mingqi said, “You’re close with Teacher You, is it true?”

Zhou Tianzui didn’t speak.

Zhao Mingqi continued, “Really? Was it Zhou Heng? He’s really bold, isn’t he?”

Zhou Tianzui’s expression darkened. After You Ruxu’s accident, they had discussed that Zhou Heng wouldn’t resort to such drastic measures just because of a car model issue, it would damage his reputation. But now, with Xu Jinwan’s disappearance.

It felt like a cornered animal lashing out.

Zhou Tianzui, worried, messaged You Ruxu: [Are you going out today?]

You Ruxu, just coming out of the studio, saw the message. She replied: [No.]

Chen Xiang called out, “Teacher You!”

You Ruxu walked over. Chen Xiang said, “The boss called for a meeting in half an hour.”

“I know.” You Ruxu walked towards the meeting room with Chen Xiang, who said, “I wonder who dares to take over the Fengyuan story now.”

Before Xu Jinwan’s disappearance, everyone wanted it. It was the hottest story at the moment. But now, everyone was hesitant. They didn’t know whether Xu Jinwan was dead or alive, but the potential consequences of continuing the investigation were clear. If Zhou Heng decided to go down in flames, taking everyone with him…

Their concerns were valid.

You Ruxu and Chen Xiang entered the meeting room. Team 3 was already there, Team 2 sat in the middle, a few members from Team 1 scattered around, most of them still in the studio. You Ruxu sat down and heard Shi Qi say, “The meeting is about to start.”

Chen Xiang said, puzzled, “Team 1 isn’t here yet.”

“Why would they be here?” Shi Qi said, “To be assigned the Fengyuan story?”

Xu Jinwan was from Team 1, and with her disappearance, the responsibility naturally fell on them, so no one wanted to attend the meeting. You Ruxu saw the station director in the distance, his face dark, probably not only because of Xu Jinwan, but also Team 1’s attitude.

Chen Xiang said, “What if they don’t come?”

Shi Qi said, “What else can we do? They can’t just assign it to us, can they?”

The station director wouldn’t do that either. When You Ruxu had her accident, Xu Jinwan snatched the Fengyuan story from them, and now, with this incident, they wanted to give it back? Such a blatant slap in the face, he wouldn’t do it, so he could only choose someone from Teams 1 and 3.

Chen Xiang said, “I can’t believe we…”

You Ruxu said softly, “Or, I can take it.”

Shi Qi and Chen Xiang looked at her, surprised. You Ruxu continued, “I was the one initially investigating Fengyuan, I know more about the situation than anyone else. And now, with Xu Jinwan’s disappearance, if the station doesn’t assign a dedicated person to cooperate with the police, the longer it takes, the more dangerous it will be for her.”

Her analysis was clear and logical, not even mentioning how Xu Jinwan had stolen her story. Shi Qi looked at her, a warmth spreading through her heart, suppressing the words on the tip of her tongue, “Xiao Xu, this Fengyuan story is different from other news stories, do you understand?”

You Ruxu said, “I understand.”

Her gaze was clear and firm, filled with composure. Shi Qi nodded, “Okay, I understand.”

Shi Qi went to find the station director.

You Ruxu, after she left, took out her phone, opened her chat with Zhou Tianzui, typed a few words, deleted them, then turned off the screen, her face reflected in the darkness. She paused for a few seconds, then turned on the phone again, typed a few more words, her gaze fixed on the send button, her lips pressed into a tight line.

Chapter 83: Blocked

Before returning home, You Ruxu received some information about Team 1’s big news. It was about Fengyuan. Shi Qi called and said Xu Jinwan had evidence. You Ruxu frowned, “Evidence that Zhou Heng harmed his brother? Is it reliable?”

The police had been investigating for so long with no progress. It was possible Xu Jinwan had a scoop, but to have evidence even the police didn’t have?

Shi Qi said, “It’s probably true. The news will be out tomorrow. Xu Jinwan wouldn’t be so bold as to lie about something like this.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Shi Qi continued, “Not only did she steal the story from us, it’s an exclusive. Do you think she was already investigating Fengyuan?”

You Ruxu couldn’t understand it either. Her investigation of Fengyuan was a coincidence, starting with a simple brake disc issue, never expecting it to lead to something so big. Shi Qi continued, “And then you had a car accident right after returning, she took over the Fengyuan story, and now she has evidence within two days?”

It was all too coincidental.

You Ruxu hadn’t spoken yet.

Shi Qi said, “We need to look into this.”

You Ruxu also found it too coincidental. It seemed like Xu Jinwan was determined to bring Fengyuan down, even using her own car accident as news. She asked, “Did Xu Jinwan have any contact with Fengyuan before?”

Shi Qi said, “I’m not sure, I’ll investigate.”

You Ruxu hung up, recalling Xu Jinwan’s demeanor that morning in the corridor, arrogant and condescending, as if she already had the story in her grasp.

Zhou Tianzui came out of the bathroom and saw You Ruxu sitting on the sofa, holding her phone. She walked over and asked, “What are you thinking about?”

You Ruxu returned to her senses, saw Zhou Tianzui, and replied, “Work stuff.”

Zhou Tianzui asked, “Fengyuan?”

You Ruxu said, “How did you know?”

“Didn’t you say the Fengyuan story was given to Xu Jinwan?” Zhou Tianzui asked, “What happened?”

You Ruxu shook her head, “Xu Jinwan said she has evidence, the morning news will report on it tomorrow.”

“Evidence?” Zhou Tianzui leaned against her. The scent of shower gel and the warmth from the heater enveloped You Ruxu, who turned slightly, inhaling the familiar fragrance. She said, “About the accident involving Zhou Heng’s brother.”

Zhou Tianzui knew about it; it was hard not to. It was being discussed everywhere, from the office to the patients’ rooms. It was rumored that Zhou Heng orchestrated his brother’s accident to take over Fengyuan, but it had just been a theory, and now—”There’s evidence?”

You Ruxu nodded.

Zhou Tianzui said, “That’s good news, with evidence, the case can be properly investigated.”

She had been worried about You Ruxu investigating Fengyuan, so having evidence for the police to step in was good. However, after a pause, she added, “Didn’t the police say they couldn’t find any evidence before?”

You Ruxu looked at her and nodded slightly.

Zhou Tianzui understood. Xu Jinwan obtained evidence the police couldn’t find?

Indeed suspicious.

Seeing the worry in You Ruxu’s eyes, Zhou Tianzui said, “Isn’t the news going to be released tomorrow morning? Don’t worry too much, we’ll know tomorrow.”

You Ruxu said, “Okay.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Go take a shower.”

You Ruxu stood up, “Alright.”

After You Ruxu left, Zhou Tianzui thought about Xu Jinwan, shaking her head slightly, then browsed the news on her phone while listening to the water running in the bathroom. The biggest news in Jindu was still about Fengyuan, with many people discussing it online. Fengyuan’s official channels were bombarded with criticism and refund requests. Initially, Fengyuan released a statement promising to address the V1 issue and asking for patience, but after Zhou Heng’s involvement came to light, they went silent.

She scrolled for a few minutes, not seeing any new developments, and then called Yu Qiao.

Yu Qiao, who had just lain down, sat up upon receiving Zhou Tianzui’s call, “Xiao Tian? Have you eaten yet?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, you?”

“I was just about to go to sleep.” Yu Qiao said, “Is something the matter?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Nothing much, I just got home, just calling to check on you, is your leg better?”

“It’s fine now.” Yu Qiao said, “I can walk up and down the stairs now.”

“You still need to be careful,” Zhou Tianzui emphasized, “don’t overexert yourself.”

Yu Qiao said, “I know.”

She then asked, “Where’s Xiao Xu?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Taking a shower.”

Just then, You Ruxu came out of the bathroom. Zhou Tianzui looked at her, “She’s here, want to talk to her?”

She handed the phone to You Ruxu, who was a little surprised, “Who is it?”

“My mom.” Hearing this, You Ruxu paused, remembering Zhou Tianzui’s words in the car, and felt a little nervous. Her face, still warm from the shower, felt even warmer now. Holding the cold phone to her ear, her voice slightly unsteady, “Godmother.”

Her voice was soft and low.

Yu Qiao responded warmly, “Are you feeling better? You’re home? I heard from Xiao Tian that you were discharged. I wanted to visit you, but Xiao Tian wouldn’t let me…”

Her leg wasn’t convenient, and Zhou Tianzui didn’t have time to drive back to pick her up, so she asked her not to come, saying she would bring You Ruxu over for dinner on the weekend. You Ruxu, standing in front of Zhou Tianzui, patiently answered all of Yu Qiao’s questions. Zhou Tianzui, listening to her voice, looked up. You Ruxu looked very obedient, almost formally so.

Zhou Tianzui recalled what Wu Xiulian had said in Yuhai, that You Ruxu was very perceptive, that she had known how to read people since she was young, knowing what to do and what not to do, how to please Wu Xiulian. She had even willingly taken on the role of Wu Xiulian’s deceased daughter.

Sensible and obedient.

She could still see that obedience in You Ruxu now.

Zhou Tianzui looked down and pulled You Ruxu onto the sofa. You Ruxu, still on the phone with Yu Qiao, had her other hand taken by Zhou Tianzui, her fingers pried open, Zhou Tianzui’s fingers interlacing with hers, slowly squeezing You Ruxu’s hand. You Ruxu, holding the phone, frowned and instinctively tried to pull her hand back, but Zhou Tianzui held on tight, refusing to let go. You Ruxu struggled twice but couldn’t break free. She glared at Zhou Tianzui.

This was the You Ruxu with a temper she was familiar with.

The moment Zhou Tianzui let go, You Ruxu shifted slightly, her body bumping against a bag. She looked down; it was the doll she had bought at the mall. She picked it up, hearing Yu Qiao say through the phone, “Then remember to come for dinner this weekend.”

You Ruxu said, “Yes, I will.”

Then she hung up, holding the bag and the phone in one hand, then tossed the bag to Zhou Tianzui, asking, her tone slightly annoyed, “What are you doing?”

Zhou Tianzui looked innocent: “What did I do?”

“Why were you holding my hand while I was talking to your mom?” You Ruxu’s expression darkened slightly.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Can’t I hold your hand?”

You Ruxu started to say, “You—”

“You what?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Because I held your hand, you feel even more guilty towards my mom, you feel even more indebted to her, is that it?”

You Ruxu was silenced.

Her thoughts exposed, she was speechless for a moment. Zhou Tianzui said, “I don’t like you being like this.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui continued, “We agreed to let go of the past, why can’t you move on?”

You Ruxu looked down. The back of her hand was red from Zhou Tianzui’s grip. She had held on tight, and hearing Yu Qiao’s voice while being held like that had felt like flirting in front of her.

It was guilt, a sense of indebtedness.

Zhou Tianzui was right.

She couldn’t let go.

You Ruxu started to say, “I want…”

Zhou Tianzui interrupted her: “Don’t even think about it.”

You Ruxu looked up, their eyes meeting. Zhou Tianzui’s gaze was serious, unlike her usual playful teasing, unusually earnest. You Ruxu’s lips parted slightly. She called out, “Zhou Tianzui.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t you dare think about it.” She took You Ruxu’s hand, looked up slightly, a hint of pleading in her earnest eyes. You Ruxu’s heart clenched, a sharp, painful ache, and she looked down. Zhou Tianzui softly pleaded, “A Ran, please, just for me, be a little more selfish, okay?”

You Ruxu looked at their joined hands, her fingers tightening around Zhou Tianzui’s, a silent response.

Zhou Tianzui’s body relaxed.

She was truly a little afraid of a serious You Ruxu. Before, when they were together, You Ruxu’s relationship with her and her mother hadn’t been very close, so she could hide her guilt deeply. Now, it was different, the kinder Yu Qiao was to her, the more uneasy You Ruxu felt. Zhou Tianzui understood this feeling. She just wanted You Ruxu to be a little more selfish, to prioritize herself.

It was difficult.

Zhou Tianzui knew, holding You Ruxu’s hand, playing with her fingers. Their conversation had created a slightly awkward silence. The warmth from the heater slowly dispelled the tension. Zhou Tianzui glanced at the gift bag with the doll inside, took it out, and asked You Ruxu, “Doesn’t it look like you?”

You Ruxu looked down and said, “It doesn’t.”

Zhou Tianzui: “How does it not? It’s practically identical.”

You Ruxu seriously examined the doll, hearing Zhou Tianzui say, “Two eyes, a nose…” As she spoke, she pointed at the doll’s eyes and nose. You Ruxu turned her head, and Zhou Tianzui suddenly placed her finger on You Ruxu’s lips, “And a mouth.”

Her fingertip was warm, her nails neatly trimmed, the touch soft against You Ruxu’s lips. You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, remembering the pleading look in her eyes earlier, her heart aching slightly. She opened her mouth and gently bit Zhou Tianzui’s finger.

Zhou Tianzui’s heart skipped a beat.

Before, You Ruxu would have turned her head away, calling her childish. This kind of initiative was rare. She bit down gently, her tongue lightly caressing Zhou Tianzui’s fingertip. A warm, moist sensation. Zhou Tianzui’s other hand tightened around the doll, the fingertip You Ruxu had just bitten tingling slightly. You Ruxu released her finger and looked at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui opened her mouth, about to speak, when You Ruxu cupped her face and kissed her.

Finally silencing her.

Thinking of this, You Ruxu felt a little pleased, chuckling softly into the kiss. Zhou Tianzui, being kissed like this, was a little bewildered.

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Zhou Tianzui: Why are you laughing?
You Ruxu: Not telling you.
Zhou Tianzui: …

Chapter 82: The Child

Before You Ruxu could cover Zhou Tianzui’s mouth, she finally became more serious. Zhou Tianzui was driving, You Ruxu in the passenger seat, replying to Editor Qiao’s message about the feedback on the news report.

After they published the story, Yao Zhao’s stepfather cried foul, also seeking media attention, claiming that Yao Zhao not only falsely accused him but was now retaliating, that she was a bad child by nature, urging the public not to be deceived. You Ruxu, watching the video of him crying and pleading, her expression remained calm.

At a red light, Zhou Tianzui turned to her, “What are you looking at?”

You Ruxu said, “The news about Yao Zhao.”

She looked down at her phone: “Her stepfather went to the media.”

“Not surprising.” Zhou Tianzui said, “It would be more surprising if he didn’t. The more guilty someone is, the louder they yell.”

You Ruxu nodded, agreeing with Zhou Tianzui, who continued, “This news will be trending for the next two weeks, Yao Zhao should be prepared.”

You Ruxu looked at her: “Did you say something to her?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I just told her about the worst-case scenario.”

You Ruxu smiled faintly, pursing her lips. She had said she wouldn’t interfere, yet she still gave Yao Zhao a hair tie, still drove her to and from school, even prepared her for the potential backlash.

This person.

You Ruxu glanced at Zhou Tianzui’s hand on the steering wheel, her slender wrist, the red string bracelet a stark contrast against her fair skin. She reached out and touched Zhou Tianzui’s wrist.

Zhou Tianzui asked, “What are you doing?”

You Ruxu: “Nothing.”

Zhou Tianzui looked down at her wrist, “Then why are you touching me?”

You Ruxu, mimicking her tone from earlier, said, “Just playing.”

Zhou Tianzui chuckled, wanting to pinch You Ruxu’s cheek. The light turned green, and the car started moving. As they neared Zeng Jing’s apartment, You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui went to the mall, buying some baby clothes and toys. After paying, You Ruxu saw Zhou Tianzui standing in front of a doll display and asked, “Do you like it?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m not three years old.”

You Ruxu said, “You don’t have to be three years old to like something.”

Her tone was serious, as if she was about to buy it for Zhou Tianzui. Zhou Tianzui wanted to laugh. She said, “My mom bought me one for my birthday when I was young.”

Back then, dolls weren’t as expensive, and there weren’t as many varieties, about half an arm’s length, with curly blonde hair and big eyes. She had loved it, carrying it everywhere, but it got lost when they moved, and she never bought another one.

Zhou Tianzui said, “A Ran, buy me one.”

A new doll, a fresh start.

You Ruxu looked at her, her eyes slightly red, then blinked and said, “Okay.”

They chose one. You Ruxu went to pay. Zhou Tianzui waited at the entrance. The children’s clothing store was across from a coffee shop. Zhou Tianzui saw a familiar figure sitting by the window, she looked closely, it was Xu Jinwan, the morning news anchor, whose news reports and video clips had been everywhere lately, often appearing when she searched for Fengyuan online.

Did Xu Jinwan live here?

Zhou Tianzui didn’t really care. She heard You Ruxu’s voice behind her, “I’m done.”

She turned around, “Let’s go.”

They returned to the parking garage and got into the car. You Ruxu took out the doll and showed it to Zhou Tianzui, who asked, “Did you have any when you were young?”

“No.” You Ruxu said, “My mom didn’t like them.”

Her tone was casual. Zhou Tianzui paused, then suddenly asked, “Did you like them?”

You Ruxu smiled faintly.

The road to Zeng Jing’s apartment was bumpy, under construction due to the fireworks factory explosion. The car swayed as they drove. You Ruxu tried to put the doll back in the bag, but the car hit a bump, and the doll fell, its arm hitting the edge of the passenger seat and breaking off.

You Ruxu picked up the doll and the broken arm, hearing Zhou Tianzui say, “Such poor quality?”

You Ruxu said, “It should be fixable.”

The joint was movable. She reattached the arm with a click. Zhou Tianzui watched her, her profile serious and focused. She gripped the steering wheel tightly, a strange sense of unease settling over her.

She shared her feeling with You Ruxu when they got out of the car.

You Ruxu said, “Are you being superstitious?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s a gut feeling.”

You Ruxu said, “Same thing.”

Zhou Tianzui retorted, “It’s not the same.”

They were still bickering when they reached the building. You Ruxu asked, “Where’s your gift?”

One of them had bought clothes, the other a toy. You Ruxu had handed the toy bag to Zhou Tianzui before getting out of the car. Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s on the driver’s seat.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Wait for me here.”

You Ruxu stood by the window, watching as the elevator descended. The car was parked outside the complex, they didn’t have access to the parking garage. Zhou Tianzui, holding the car keys, walked to the car, and just as she opened the door, saw a red car drive past, its windows down, even in this weather. She looked at it curiously. The car was moving slowly, the driver looking around, as if lost.

She had seen Xu Jinwan twice today.

What a coincidence.

Zhou Tianzui watched as the car drove towards a construction site nearby, a half-finished residential complex, a dark and imposing structure, its silhouette even darker under the streetlights, like a giant shadow swallowing everything in its path. She saw Xu Jinwan drive into the shadows.

What was she doing there so late at night?

Chasing a news story?

But wasn’t she investigating Fengyuan?

If she hadn’t seen her drive in herself, Zhou Tianzui would have suspected something. Back at Zeng Jing’s apartment, the door was open. You Ruxu stood at the entrance and, hearing the elevator arrive, said, “I’m here.”

Zeng Jing quickly greeted her, “Come in, come in, have a seat.”

You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui entered. It was a two-bedroom apartment. The baby was sleeping on the sofa, surrounded by pillows, no one else home. Zeng Jing said, “Dr. Zhou, have a seat.”

“Reporter You, come in, it’s cold outside, isn’t it?”

The heater was on, so it wasn’t cold inside. Zeng Jing brought them some warm water. You Ruxu took it with both hands, “Thank you.”

“I should be thanking you.” Zeng Jing looked healthier than before, having gained some weight, her eyes bright and alert, a stark contrast to her appearance at the hospital. She said, “When the incident first happened, I never thought I would be able to get through it.”

Whether she was weak or selfish, she had been too afraid to even leave the ward, constantly crying, even contemplating taking her own life, along with her baby.

Thankfully, You Ruxu was there.

Thankfully.

Her husband’s name was cleared, they received compensation, and their child was healthy. Zeng Jing was truly grateful to You Ruxu, who said, “I was just doing my job.”

Zeng Jing said, “That’s why good reporters are so important, your ‘job,’ it can change a family’s life.”

You Ruxu paused slightly. Zhou Tianzui asked, “No one else home?”

Zeng Jing said, “My mother-in-law is at the hospital with my husband. We originally planned to have a celebratory dinner a few days ago, but I thought you probably wouldn’t like a noisy environment, so I invited you over separately.”

You Ruxu knew about this, Zeng Jing had mentioned it to her before. With all the busyness, You Ruxu had forgotten to tell Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui nodded, put down the gifts. Zeng Jing said, “You shouldn’t have spent any more money…”

“It’s for the little one.” Zhou Tianzui walked over to the sofa and looked down at the chubby baby, a milky scent clinging to its skin, dressed in light blue pajamas, its tiny hands clenched tightly, sleeping soundly in the warm room. You Ruxu stood beside her and gently touched the baby’s hand. The baby’s hand opened and grasped her finger. You Ruxu, slightly surprised, looked at Zhou Tianzui.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Why are you looking at me?” Seeing Zeng Jing go to the kitchen, she whispered, “Do you want me to have your baby?”

You Ruxu choked, surprised, afraid of waking the baby, she covered her mouth and walked away before coughing. Zeng Jing brought out the last dish, saw You Ruxu coughing, and asked with concern, “What’s wrong? Do you have a cold?”

“No.” You Ruxu took her water glass, “Just choked, I’ll have some water.”

Zeng Jing looked at her.

You Ruxu’s face was flushed.

A vibrant flush, so different from her usual cool and composed demeanor on TV, more approachable. Zeng Jing said, “Dr. Zhou, dinner’s ready.”

Zhou Tianzui walked over to the table and asked Zeng Jing, “Is that new residential complex next door new?”

Zeng Jing said, “Which one? The one on the right?” She looked out the window, “No, it’s been half-finished since last year, the developer ran off, and they said the government took over, but there hasn’t been any progress since. What’s wrong, Dr. Zhou?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Nothing.”

You Ruxu looked at her, her eyes still slightly watery from coughing earlier. Zhou Tianzui said, “I just saw your colleague go in.”

“Colleague?” You Ruxu said, “Who?”

“Xu Jinwan.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Isn’t she investigating Fengyuan?”

You Ruxu nodded, “Maybe she’s working on another story.” After all, each news team usually worked on several stories simultaneously. But what kind of story could be related to this area? You Ruxu couldn’t think of anything. Looking at the dark and imposing structure through the window, she frowned slightly.

After dinner, Zeng Jing offered them fruit and a chance to rest, but Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s getting late, don’t trouble yourself, you’ll be busy when the baby wakes up.”

Zeng Jing smiled, “I’m fine, then drive safe on your way back.”

Zhou Tianzui and You Ruxu said goodbye at the elevator. Zeng Jing, turning back to look at her sleeping baby, her eyes filled with love. You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui got into the car, exchanging a knowing glance. You Ruxu said, “Just a quick look.”

Zhou Tianzui understood what she meant and drove towards the abandoned building. They saw a red car parked nearby. You Ruxu looked at the time, it had been there for quite a while, since before dinner. She was about to call Xu Jinwan when Zhou Tianzui placed her hand over You Ruxu’s phone. You Ruxu looked up and saw a woman emerge from the building, get into the red car, and drive away.

You Ruxu rolled down the window and looked at the abandoned building, shrouded in darkness, not a single light.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Let’s go home.”

You Ruxu nodded. Zhou Tianzui removed her hand. You Ruxu exited the call screen and saw several new messages on WeChat, from her team’s group chat.

[I just heard from Team 1 that they have a huge story tomorrow!]

[What story?]

[I don’t know, they’re keeping it a secret.]

You Ruxu looked down. Zhou Tianzui asked, “What are you looking at?”

“Nothing.” You Ruxu said, “They’re talking about a big news story tomorrow in the group chat.”

Zhou Tianzui, gripping the steering wheel, asked, “Big news? What kind of big news?”

You Ruxu said, “I don’t know.”

“If you don’t know, then don’t think about it.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t we have our own big news?”

You Ruxu looked at her: “We do?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, me having your baby, isn’t that big news?”

You Ruxu paused, then her face flushed crimson.

---

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You Ruxu: I don’t know how many times I’ve wanted to cover her mouth!
Zhou Tianzui: Would you really?
You Ruxu: …

Chapter 81: Tutoring

The morning rush continued into the afternoon, keeping You Ruxu busy. One news story after another. Just after her lunch break, she received a call from Zhou Tianzui.

“I saw Yao Zhao’s news.” It wasn’t a primetime story, but it still gained traction online, trending amidst the Fengyuan news.

You Ruxu held her phone while looking at her computer screen.

It was published on the station’s website, but it had already been reposted by various marketing accounts with sensational headlines, like “Lying Girl,” “Framing Stepfather,” and “Sexual Assault,” among others. You Ruxu pursed her lips, noticing the most popular post was just a screenshot of their news report, its popularity due to the account’s large following.

The comments were filled with accusations against Yao Zhao, accusing her of lying for sympathy.

[I defended Yao Zhao before, now I want to slap myself, that poor father.]

[Poor? How is he poor? He didn’t get to sleep with a fourteen-year-old, so he’s poor?]

[Agree with the above, Yao Zhao is only fourteen, it’s understandable that she didn’t dare call the police, understandable that she lied, if I were in her shoes, I wouldn’t necessarily do any better!]

[Are you all being too emotional? What if she’s lying again this time? Her previous lie was too big, so she’s trying to cover it up with an even bigger one!]

[Exactly, someone who lies once will lie countless times. Poor father.]

You Ruxu scrolled down, reading the comments, insults, doubts, accusations, of course, there were also many who expressed understanding, praising Yao Zhao’s bravery, encouraging her, saying it wasn’t easy for a girl her age to come forward with such a story.

Zhou Tianzui, hearing silence on the other end, called out softly, “A Ran—”

You Ruxu, holding her phone, responded, “Mm-hmm.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Don’t overthink it, it’s Yao Zhao’s choice.”

“I know.” You Ruxu, looking at the comments, knew it was one thing to understand intellectually, and another to see the doubts and accusations, which still made her feel a little sad. But from others’ perspective, it was natural to be skeptical.

Could Yao Zhao withstand this?

She looked out the window. The snow was still falling heavily, blanketing the ground, the trees, the windowpanes. Yao Zhao also looked out the window at the accumulating snow, not melting immediately. Her deskmate whispered, “Yao Zhao, want to grab dinner together tonight?”

She added, “My treat, I’ll buy you some vermicelli noodles.”

Yao Zhao shook her head.

Her deskmate continued, “Come on, come on, I’m bored eating alone.”

Yao Zhao looked at her. They had been deskmates for almost two months now. Song Chenyue had always been kind to her, defending her against bullies, arguing with others on her behalf. She was like a small, warm heater, bringing warmth into her life every day.

But she—she had no money.

She couldn’t reciprocate.

Yao Zhao bit her lip. Song Chenyue tugged on her arm, “Come on, come on~”

The teacher, noticing the commotion, coughed and called out their names. Yao Zhao turned around. Song Chenyue stuck her tongue out at her, and Yao Zhao couldn’t help but smile. When the bell rang, Yao Zhao heard the class monitor say, “The homeroom teacher wants to see you.”

The others were curious: “What for?”

“Don’t you know yet?” A boy said loudly, deliberately, “The mute lied, now we’ll have a good show.”

Song Chenyue spat, “What good show? You just enjoy seeing others suffer!”

“It wasn’t me who said it, it’s in the news.” The boy held up his phone. “It wasn’t enough for Yao Zhao to accuse her father of domestic violence, she’s now saying he tried to sexually assault her, like someone like her…”

“Like someone like her, what?” Song Chenyue stood up and marched towards the boy aggressively. Some classmates tried to stop her, holding her back, but she continued to yell, “Like someone like her, what?! Do you have any empathy at all? Her mother left, and she’s living with her stepfather, can’t you see what kind of person he is? He doesn’t even give Yao Zhao money for school lunch, and you expect him to take care of her? He must have ulterior motives! If you don’t have any empathy, fine, but don’t say such disgusting things! It’s not shameful to be classmates with Yao Zhao, it’s shameful to be classmates with you!”

The boy’s face flushed red, he stood up, wanting to argue with her, but Song Chenyue didn’t back down, all the girls siding with her. Hearing her words, some people fell silent.

They also knew how difficult Yao Zhao’s life was.

They had also joined the boy in calling Yao Zhao “mute.”

They had also felt ashamed of having a mute classmate.

During school events, students from other classes would always mock them: “Look, there’s a mute.”

Not only did they not defend her, they resented Yao Zhao, also feeling ashamed. But Song Chenyue’s words were like a thunderclap, striking their hearts.

Song Chenyue said, “What? Want to hit me? Come on then, you’re an embarrassment! You’re even worse than Yao Zhao! Someone like you, if you encountered what she’s going through, you would probably be crying and running home to your mommy and daddy! You call Yao Zhao a mute, what are you? A baby who hasn’t been weaned?”

The boy’s face was red with anger, the veins on his hands bulging as his classmates held him back, dragging him towards the back door. Song Chenyue stood there, glaring at him, unflinching.

The atmosphere in the classroom was tense. Yao Zhao stood at the door, looking at Song Chenyue, biting her lip. Someone noticed her and said, “Yao Zhao’s back.”

The others dispersed, a few girls walking over to Yao Zhao, trying to defuse the tension.

“Yao Zhao, why did the homeroom teacher want to see you?”

Yao Zhao, usually so quiet, said, “She asked me about the situation.”

Someone asked with concern, “Are you okay?”

Yao Zhao looked up at her classmate, meeting her gaze. She rarely made eye contact before, always shrinking back, afraid to speak, afraid to move, trying to make herself invisible, but not anymore.

Yao Zhao said, “I’m fine.” She smiled, “Thank you.”

The girl who asked blushed, flustered by her gratitude. It was just a simple question, yet Yao Zhao’s sincere tone, as if she had done her a huge favor, and her gentle smile, made her feel even more embarrassed.

Song Chenyue said, “See, she’s fine.”

Yao Zhao, her hair neatly tied back with the red hair tie, her delicate features and clear eyes visible, said to Song Chenyue, “I’m fine.”

Song Chenyue said, “Good to hear that.”

Yao Zhao said, “Thank you, for what you said to…”

“Oh, that? I was just arguing with an idiot, I’ve wanted to put him in his place for a while!” Song Chenyue said with bravado. The other girls chimed in, “Exactly, he’s so annoying, always giving people nicknames, he called Xiao Mo ‘Big Butt’ last time, she was so upset she cried.”

“Exactly!” Others agreed, “I can’t stand him either, always bullying his classmates.”

Yao Zhao, listening to them, felt a sense of belonging for the first time. She sat at her desk, surrounded by her classmates. Those who had previously doubted her didn’t say anything now, just whispered amongst themselves, their gazes occasionally drifting towards Yao Zhao.

All sorts of looks, Yao Zhao could feel them, but her expression remained unchanged. When the bell rang, the students returned to their seats. Yao Zhao whispered to Song Chenyue, “Thank you.” She called her, “Yueyue.”

She hadn’t dared to address her by name before, now calling her “Yueyue” so casually.

Song Chenyue waved her hand dismissively, “It was nothing.”

To her, it might be nothing, but to Yao Zhao, it was a momentous event. She hesitated, and Song Chenyue, seeing this, said, “Just say it.”

Yao Zhao said, “Why did you defend me?”

Her classmates, most of them disliked her to some extent before, even those who didn’t know her well, while not disliking her, treated her like a stranger. Having someone like Song Chenyue stand up for her was a first.

Song Chenyue said, “Just for that?”

Yao Zhao nodded.

Song Chenyue said, “Because we’re classmates, aren’t classmates supposed to help each other?”

Yao Zhao pondered her words.

Song Chenyue continued, “Of course, your grades are good, it would be even better if you could continue tutoring me…” She put on a pitiful expression. Yao Zhao nodded, smiling, “I’m happy to.”

Song Chenyue grinned, “You’re so nice.”

Yao Zhao didn’t think she was nice at all. Song Chenyue was the nice one. But she would try her best to be a good person.

After school, Song Chenyue insisted on taking Yao Zhao out for dinner, telling her to wait in the classroom while she went to the restroom. Yao Zhao sat at her desk and heard the classroom door being kicked open. The boy she had argued with earlier walked in, saw Yao Zhao, and marched over, “Hey, mute, where’s Song Chenyue?”

Another boy, older than them, bigger and stronger, was with him. Yao Zhao said, “What do you want with her?”

“Oh, you’re not mute anymore?” The boy chuckled, “We have some business with her, she was all high and mighty this afternoon, where is she now, hiding like a turtle?”

Yao Zhao glared at him, “She went home.”

“Who are you trying to fool?” The boy said, “I’ll just wait for her here then!”

Yao Zhao ignored him and stood up, about to leave, when her wrist was grabbed, “You’re not going anywhere!”

His grip was tight, painful. Yao Zhao looked at him, not a trace of fear in her eyes. She stopped struggling and said, “Fine, I won’t go.”

The boy exchanged a look with his friend and said, “Not afraid of us?”

“No.” Yao Zhao said, “I even dared to report my stepfather for sexual assault, what do I have to be afraid of? You’re holding my wrist now, that’s evidence, I can report you to the reporters, they’ll investigate, they’ll expose everything about you, they’ll contact your family, everyone online will know where your parents work, they’ll be pointed at and ridiculed, they’ll lose their jobs.” Yao Zhao took a step closer, “I’m not afraid as long as you’re not afraid.”

The boy instinctively let go of her hand.

Having never heard so many words from the “mute” before, he was stunned, she was like a different person.

The other boy frowned, seemingly realizing that Yao Zhao wasn’t bluffing, she had already reported her own stepfather, what else wouldn’t she do?

Nothing left to lose.

The more you had, the more you had to protect, the more cautious you became. The boy blustered, “Are you crazy?!”

Yao Zhao didn’t move.

The boy, losing face, heard his friend say, “Let’s go, let’s go.”

He took the opportunity to back down, muttering a few threats before leaving. Yao Zhao’s hand relaxed, her palm sweaty. She sat down heavily on the chair and heard a familiar voice behind her.

“Yao Zhao.”

She turned around; it was You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui. She immediately stood up: “Reporter! Dr. Zhou!”

You Ruxu had arrived earlier and heard Yao Zhao’s words. Zhou Tianzui said, “See, it’s her choice.”

It was her choice, and she would follow through, without hesitation. Yao Zhao asked, “When, when did you arrive?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “While you were talking to your classmate.”

“I…” Yao Zhao suddenly remembered what she had said, afraid You Ruxu might think she was using her and the media, she quickly explained, “Reporter, I…”

You Ruxu said, “You did well.”

Yao Zhao bit her lip.

You Ruxu’s gaze was gentle, her smiling eyes even more so. The breath Yao Zhao had been holding finally escaped her lungs, her nose tingling, tears welling up, “Thank you, Sister.”

She had been so afraid before, afraid her classmates would find out, her neighbors, her teachers, everyone she knew.

She had thought it was her shameful secret, something to be hidden in the shadows.

But You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui had taught her how to turn that fear into a weapon, to protect herself.

Someone peeked in through the back door, calling out, “Yao Zhao!”

Yao Zhao responded. You Ruxu said, “Go ahead.”

Yao Zhao obediently nodded, “Goodbye, Sister, goodbye, Dr. Zhou.”

After she left, You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui walked out of the school building. The snow had lessened slightly, the ground covered in white. Zhou Tianzui said, “Feeling reassured now?”

You Ruxu looked at her, “I wasn’t worried.”

“Right.” Zhou Tianzui said, “Rushing over here after work, definitely not worried.”

Her tone was sarcastic.

You Ruxu glanced at her. Zhou Tianzui was wearing a dark down jacket over a light blue sweater and fitted pants, her figure tall and slender, her legs long and straight. She had applied light makeup for tonight’s dinner at Zeng Jing’s, making her features even more striking. You Ruxu said, “What are you doing?”

Zhou Tianzui leaned in and whispered in her ear, “Jealous.”

The wind blew, making You Ruxu’s cheeks flush. She glared at Zhou Tianzui. A teacher walked past them, and Zhou Tianzui, watching the teacher’s receding figure, asked You Ruxu, “I remember you had good grades in school?”

Perhaps because they were in a school environment, the sudden question didn’t seem out of place. You Ruxu didn’t hesitate, “They were decent.”

“My grades weren’t good.” Zhou Tianzui lied, her tone serious. “So, Teacher You, could you tutor me tonight?”

“Tutor you?” You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, “Tutor you on what?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Didn’t I fail the practical exam for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation last time? Teacher You, could you give me some extra tutoring tonight?”

You Ruxu ignored her.

Zhou Tianzui continued, “Anatomy is also fine.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Or maybe the female anatomy…”

You Ruxu quietly interrupted, “Shut up.”

Zhou Tianzui: “Okay, Teacher You.” Her eyes crinkled with amusement, her tone playful. You Ruxu touched her ear, Zhou Tianzui leaning closer, asking, “Teacher You, which subject are we studying tonight?”

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You Ruxu: Zhou Tianzui.
Zhou Tianzui: Call me Classmate Zhou.
You Ruxu: …

Chapter 80: Passing By

You Ruxu woke up the next morning. Snow was still falling. She opened the curtains; the snowman was still there, covered in a layer of fresh snow, now a small mound, its original shape no longer discernible. She paused for a moment, went back to the bedroom, grabbed her phone, took a photo, and posted it on WeChat Moments with the caption: [Snowman].

She rarely shared anything personal. Her Moments posts were almost exclusively work-related, reflecting her reserved personality, her dislike for sharing private matters.

This rare personal post received a comment: [???? Snowman? I see the snow, where’s the man?]

You Ruxu’s lips curved into a faint smile.

Chen Xiang also commented: [Teacher You, this snowman is so unique.]

It was.

Very unique.

Zhou Tianzui made it for her.

A soft warmth filled You Ruxu’s eyes. Hearing a noise outside, she walked out. Zhou Tianzui was busy in the kitchen, wearing a light blue pajama top, her sleeves rolled up, revealing her fair and slender wrists. Hearing her, Zhou Tianzui turned around and said, “You’re awake?”

The living room curtains were still drawn. Their pajamas were on the sofa. You Ruxu blushed slightly, quickly gathering them and putting them in the washing machine. Zhou Tianzui, watching her, chuckled, “Aren’t you tired?”

You Ruxu said, “No.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Then we’ll continue tonight!”

She called out to You Ruxu, who was now in the bathroom. You Ruxu, looking at her reflection in the mirror, couldn’t suppress her smile. She ignored Zhou Tianzui, finished washing up, and walked out. Zhou Tianzui was waiting for her to have breakfast.

You Ruxu said, “Do I still need to go to the hospital?”

“Yes.” Zhou Tianzui said, “You haven’t been discharged yet.”

You Ruxu nodded.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Are you publishing Yao Zhao’s story today?”

You Ruxu nodded, “Not a live broadcast.”

Zhou Tianzui understood.

She asked, “Does Yao Zhao know the outcome?”

You Ruxu said, “She should. Want to go see her tonight?”

Yao Zhao had a dinner break before her evening self-study session. You Ruxu wanted to visit her during that time. Zhou Tianzui nodded, “Okay.” You Ruxu added, “Can you leave work early tonight? We’re having dinner at Zeng Jing’s.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I know.”

She had already cleared her schedule.

You Ruxu smiled and started eating. Zhou Tianzui picked up some food and called out, “A Ran.”

You Ruxu looked up at her.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I want to talk to my mom about us.”

You Ruxu’s expression changed slightly. Their relationship with Yu Qiao had only just improved slightly, was this the right time? How would Yu Qiao react? You Ruxu had a few guesses. She gripped her chopsticks tightly.

Zhou Tianzui continued, “Not directly, don’t worry, I’ll find an opportunity, I’ll take it slow.”

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

Zhou Tianzui said, “What do you want to say?”

You Ruxu said, “I want to say, I’m such a coward, I should have told you the truth from the beginning, told your mother, I…”

Zhou Tianzui held her hand: “A Ran.”

You Ruxu continued to look at her, her eyes slightly red.

When she first met Zhou Tianzui, she hadn’t recognized her. She only realized who Zhou Tianzui was after she started liking her, after they became close. Whether she told her or not was torture, but she was cowardly and didn’t choose honesty.

Zhou Tianzui said, “I understand.”

You Ruxu wanted to laugh, but she couldn’t. She said, “You don’t understand.”

She said, “Zhou Tianzui, if it were you, you would have told me long ago.”

Zhou Tianzui’s nature was to be brave and righteous, “But I also haven’t told my mother, I also lied to her. A Ran, everyone has their secrets.”

She was grateful for You Ruxu’s secret.

It gave them a chance to start over.

You Ruxu looked at her for a few seconds. Zhou Tianzui said, “Eat your breakfast, I’ll talk to my mom slowly.”

The topic dropped. You Ruxu lowered her head and ate. Zhou Tianzui suddenly reached out and pinched her cheek. You Ruxu said, “What are you doing?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Playing.”

What was so fun about that?

But You Ruxu smiled nonetheless.

They went to the hospital together after breakfast. You Ruxu was discharged and arranged to pick up Zhou Tianzui after work. Zhou Tianzui was in a good mood, even being unusually gentle with He Wei during her morning rounds, which startled He Wei, who tugged on Zhao Mingqi’s sleeve, “Dr. Zhao, did I do something wrong recently?”

Zhao Mingqi was puzzled, “No, why?”

He Wei had changed considerably since the incident where she took credit for Lin Luo’s work, becoming more reliable and diligent, rarely making mistakes. Even the director commented, “Zhou Tianzui is truly amazing, anyone under her guidance becomes a model employee.”

Indeed.

He Wei, who had initially acted like a spoiled princess, was completely different now.

Dr. Zhou’s influence was undeniable!

Zhou Tianzui looked at her computer and messaged You Ruxu: [Tell me when you arrive at the station.]

You Ruxu, getting out of the car, saw the message and smiled, replying: [I’m here.]

No reply, she was probably busy. You Ruxu returned to the office. Chen Xiang, seeing her, was surprised, “Teacher You, you’re discharged?”

Then, remembering that You Ruxu had said she was fine yesterday, she slapped her forehead, “Why didn’t you rest at home for a couple of days?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m fine, why rest?”

Chen Xiang gave her a thumbs-up, truly admiring her dedication, the type who would work even when sick. But they were all happy to have her back. Shi Qi bought them milk tea, one for each person. Someone asked, “Boss, so Fengyuan’s story went to Xu Jinwan then?”

Shi Qi said, “Not happy about it? Go snatch it back then.”

The speaker pouted, “That’s shameless.”

“Being shameless is normal!” The person beside her said, “When has Team 1 ever had any shame?”

Shi Qi said, “Xiao Xu, how are you feeling?”

You Ruxu said, “I’m fine.”

Shi Qi nodded, “Did you send all the information to Xu Jinwan?”

You Ruxu said, “I organized it last night and sent it to her.”

Hearing this, the office erupted in another round of complaints and indignation on You Ruxu’s behalf. You Ruxu looked down, took a sip of her milk tea. The TV on the wall was on, the morning news music playing, then Xu Jinwan’s smiling face appeared on screen.

You Ruxu sent Yao Zhao’s file to Editor Qiao.

Editor Qiao, before even finishing reading it, sent a series of question marks. You Ruxu realized she hadn’t discussed it with her beforehand. Because she wanted to protect Yao Zhao, she hadn’t told anyone.

You Ruxu called Editor Qiao, who exclaimed on the other end, “Really? Is this real?”

You Ruxu said, “It’s real.”

“Are you sure you want to publish this?” Editor Qiao had thought it was just an ordinary domestic violence case, having heard that the police confirmed Yao Zhao was lying. People tended to have preconceived notions. For example, after confirming Yao Zhao’s lie, it was difficult to trust her again.

Publishing this story would definitely cause another uproar.

You Ruxu said, “I’m sure.”

It would definitely be met with skepticism, because of Yao Zhao’s previous lie, this report would undoubtedly be questioned, but Yao Zhao could use this controversy to involve social services, and the man wouldn’t dare to act rashly. For Yao Zhao, it was a double-edged sword, if she could withstand it, things would get better.

She believed in Yao Zhao.

Editor Qiao said, “Okay, I understand.”

You Ruxu thanked her and hung up, hearing Chen Xiang exclaim, “Wow, this Xu Jinwan is really something!”

Xu Jinwan had reported on Zhou Heng and his brother’s case, shifting everyone’s attention to the bigger story. She even interviewed several car owners at the scene, their words sharp and critical, making one’s scalp tingle.

It was originally just an issue with one of Fengyuan’s models, they could just recall and fix them, but reporting on his brother’s accident, that was a different matter altogether.

Family feuds, corporate power struggles, just imagining the drama was enough to pique people’s curiosity. Although there had been some discussions online about Zhou Heng and his brother before, Jindu TV hadn’t reported on it, no official statement, so other media reports weren’t taken seriously. Many people were just watching the drama unfold. But Jindu TV actually reporting on it today seemed like a confirmation of sorts.

You Ruxu went to the station’s website and saw many comments.

[When are you arresting Zhou Heng? @Jindu Police]

[When is Zhou Heng going to jail?]

[Don’t care about Zhou Heng and his brother, isn’t the V1 false advertising? @International Anti-Counterfeiting Center]

[Exactly, the V1 is fraudulent, they don’t value our lives!]

[Our lives? What about that reporter from Jindu who was hit?]

Even she was mentioned. You Ruxu, engrossed in the comments, heard the office phone ring. She answered. The person on the other end was looking for Xu Jinwan. You Ruxu said, “Please call the morning news team’s hotline.”

She politely hung up, only then realizing that all the phones in the office were ringing.

Everyone was busy answering calls. Chen Xiang, after hanging up, collapsed onto her chair, “The hotline’s exploding again!”

The calls were even reaching the midday news team, the hotline must be overloaded. Xu Jinwan had expected this after her broadcast. While the makeup artist removed her makeup, she said, “Sister Xu, you’re amazing, our team’s hotline is completely swamped.”

All calls from V1 owners wanting to provide evidence, and others trying to get information, wanting a piece of the pie. Xu Jinwan’s phone was on silent, but she still had many missed calls, one message catching her eye: [I have evidence.]

No other information, just those three words.

Evidence?

What evidence? It couldn’t just be proof of owning a V1. Xu Jinwan’s curiosity was piqued. She said to the makeup artist, “You can leave now.”

The makeup artist, knowing her temper, didn’t ask, just nodded and left. Xu Jinwan was alone in the makeup room, sitting in front of the mirror, her phone in hand. After a moment of thought, she dialed the number.

You Ruxu, carrying a cup of water, returned to the office and saw Xu Jinwan in the makeup room from afar. She didn’t pay much attention and just went back to her office.

The office was still chaotic, phones ringing non-stop. You Ruxu took the script from Chen Xiang, who was talking on the phone, her head tilted. You Ruxu, wanting to drink some water, looked at her cup; it was empty. She sighed. You Ruxu said, “I’ll refill it for you.”

She took Chen Xiang’s cup. Chen Xiang, still on the phone, couldn’t speak, but her eyes were filled with gratitude, she even made a heart sign with her fingers.

You Ruxu smiled, lowered her head, and went out to refill the cup.

She ran into Xu Jinwan.

Xu Jinwan was also on the phone. She saw You Ruxu, their eyes met, then she looked away and brushed past You Ruxu.

---

---

---

Zhou Tianzui: Tired?
You Ruxu: Not really.
Zhou Tianzui: You might be tired tonight.
You Ruxu: …

Chapter 79: Melting

You Ruxu looked at Zhou Tianzui, who was sitting on the edge of the bed, and said, “Come here.”

You Ruxu took two steps forward, but instead of hugging Zhou Tianzui, she brushed past her and took the lunchbox to reheat it. Zhou Tianzui, slightly displeased, watched her. You Ruxu’s movements were slow and deliberate, occasionally glancing at Zhou Tianzui, a hint of amusement in her eyes.

The microwave was in the corridor. She took the lunchbox and went out. Zhou Tianzui sat in the ward. After running around all afternoon, her back ached, her calves were sore, and now, relaxing, she felt sleepy. The ward was quiet, the familiar scent of disinfectant comforting. She looked at the fluorescent light above, its glow creating ripples in her vision.

When You Ruxu returned, Zhou Tianzui was asleep. She quietly closed the door, walked over, and looked down at Zhou Tianzui, wanting to move her to the bed, to a more comfortable position. Just as she touched Zhou Tianzui, she woke up.

Opening her eyes, she rubbed her face and asked You Ruxu, “Is it warm now?”

You Ruxu nodded.

Zhou Tianzui extended her hand. You Ruxu looked down. Zhou Tianzui said, “Help me up.”

You Ruxu reached out and took her hand, her fingers interlacing with Zhou Tianzui’s. Before she could pull, Zhou Tianzui pulled her into an embrace. You Ruxu’s heart skipped a beat, her hand resting on Zhou Tianzui’s shoulder. Zhou Tianzui said, “Just a hug.”

She said, “Yao Zhao got a two-minute hug.”

This person—

You Ruxu’s hand on her shoulder relaxed, letting herself be held. After five minutes, Zhou Tianzui released her, picked up her chopsticks, and sat by the bedside table to eat, asking You Ruxu, “Have you eaten?”

“Yes.” You Ruxu took a sip of water. Zhou Tianzui picked up a green bean from her lunchbox, held it out to You Ruxu, her gaze serious. You Ruxu pursed her lips, then after a couple of seconds, opened her mouth and ate the bean, chewing slowly.

Zhou Tianzui had never fed her like this before.

It was like something she had seen her classmates do when they were dating in university.

You Ruxu smiled as she ate.

Zhou Tianzui looked up from her food, “What’s so funny?”

“You’re being childish.” You Ruxu said, then realizing she was also being childish.

Two thirty-year-olds acting like lovesick teenagers, doing such things, if anyone saw them, they would be laughed at. Zhou Tianzui repeated, “Childish?”

You Ruxu nodded.

She looked at Zhou Tianzui, whose expression was calm, a playful glint in her eyes, “What isn’t childish then? Enlighten me, Teacher You?”

You Ruxu, having just taken a sip of water, almost choked. She glared at Zhou Tianzui and lay back down on the bed.

The ward was quiet and cozy. You Ruxu stopped bickering and, thinking of what had happened today, looked at Zhou Tianzui and said seriously, “We were followed when I was out with Yao Zhao.”

Zhou Tianzui’s eating paused. She turned to You Ruxu.

You Ruxu continued, “But it seemed like they wanted me to see them.”

They were dressed in black, seemingly blending in with the night, but actually quite conspicuous. They followed closely, but did nothing, their gazes towards her and Yao Zhao not threatening.

Zhou Tianzui said, “They wanted you to see them?”

She asked, “To intimidate you?”

Such tactics weren’t uncommon, their purpose to frighten You Ruxu, hoping she would back down. You Ruxu said, “I don’t know, that’s a possibility.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Then your car accident today…”

“Captain Zhou said the driver has no connection to Zhou Heng or Fengyuan. I don’t think it was Zhou Heng, it was too clumsy.” You Ruxu said this, but today’s incident still warranted caution. She told Zhou Tianzui just in case.

Zhou Tianzui lost her appetite.

You Ruxu, sitting beside her, asked, “Why aren’t you eating anymore?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’m full.”

You Ruxu said, “Then let me feed you.”

She sat opposite Zhou Tianzui, scooped up some food, and held the spoon out to her. Zhou Tianzui didn’t want to eat, but seeing You Ruxu like this, she sighed and ate it.

They finished dinner after more than half an hour.

The food had gone cold.

Zhou Tianzui’s stomach was already sensitive. You Ruxu offered to reheat it, but Zhou Tianzui stopped her, “I’m not eating anymore.”

You Ruxu put away the leftovers, “When are you going back?”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her, her gaze surprised, as if You Ruxu had asked a very interesting question. Her look made You Ruxu feel a little self-conscious, “What’s wrong?”

“Me going back?” Zhou Tianzui said, “Do you think you’ll be able to sleep here alone?”

Everyone knew she couldn’t sleep in unfamiliar beds.

You Ruxu did have trouble sleeping in unfamiliar beds, but the hospital ward was fine, probably because of the familiar scent of disinfectant, which reminded her of Zhou Tianzui, calming her. She rarely had trouble sleeping in hospitals.

She looked at Zhou Tianzui, “So you’re not going back?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Can’t I sleep with you?”

You Ruxu shook her head: “No.”

The nurses made their rounds at ten at night and again at five in the morning. What would it look like if they saw them sleeping together? You Ruxu shook her head. Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

You Ruxu said, “Otherwise, I’ll go back with you?”

She was actually fine. The doctor had told her after the CT scan that she just needed to rest for a couple of days, that the soreness in her neck was normal. So, she didn’t really need to stay at the hospital.

Zhou Tianzui’s expression darkened slightly.

You Ruxu said, “Let’s go home?”

She sat beside Zhou Tianzui, leaning closer, a smile on her face. Zhou Tianzui looked at her intently. Everyone said Yao Zhao had changed a lot, but You Ruxu, since returning from Jindu, had also changed a lot. She wasn’t sure if it was gradual or if she was finally letting go of her reservations, but the change was noticeable.

Like now, asking in a tone she would never have used before, “Let’s go home?”

How could Zhou Tianzui refuse?

She couldn’t. Although she wanted to maintain a stern facade, she stood up. You Ruxu took her phone and her things, and seeing Zhou Tianzui grab the car keys, asked, “Are you driving or should I?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “I’ll drive.”

You Ruxu nodded, followed Zhou Tianzui to the car, and sat in the passenger seat. She said, “I need to work on Yao Zhao’s news report when we get back.” And also send the Fengyuan information to Xu Jinwan. Zhou Tianzui said, “And me?”

You Ruxu turned, the car’s heater having just been turned on, the air still cold. The chilly weather made Zhou Tianzui’s skin look even paler. You Ruxu said, “You sleep.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Just sleep?”

You Ruxu said, “What else?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Otherwise, I’ll wait for you.”

You Ruxu didn’t reply, just smiled and turned to look out the window. Snowflakes were falling softly. Some shops had already hung up red lanterns, a festive atmosphere. She asked Zhou Tianzui, “Do you like New Year’s?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “It’s alright, do you?”

“I love New Year’s.” You Ruxu said, “We moved to Jindu right before New Year’s.”

She looked at Zhou Tianzui and said something she had never told anyone before.

“It was very cold that year, heavy snow. My mom worked nearby, and I would sit outside the building every day at 5:30, waiting for her. Sometimes, I would even go to her workplace to wait for her. The uncles and aunties there were very kind, very good to me.”

Back then, she had thought she would live there with her mother, just like that. She liked that place, liked Jindu.

Zhou Tianzui parked the car, and they got out, the ground covered in a thin layer of snow. Zhou Tianzui said, “Have you ever built a snowman?”

You Ruxu said, “I’ve seen people build them.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Come on.”

You Ruxu followed her. They stood on the steps in front of the building. Zhou Tianzui scooped up a handful of snow and shaped it into a small ball, about the size of her palm. You Ruxu, understanding, did the same, making a larger ball for the body. Zhou Tianzui stuck two twigs into it for arms. You Ruxu’s face lit up with a smile.

After arriving at the You family’s home, although You Shu and Wu Xiulian hadn’t set any strict rules for her, she knew what was and wasn’t acceptable. Building a snowman would get her clothes dirty, and she would get cold, catch a cold, so she had never done it before.

Zhou Tianzui, seeing her smile, understood.

She and You Ruxu had been together for almost four years.

It was only recently that You Ruxu’s emotions had started to change so drastically, this unrestrained smile. She placed the small snowman in You Ruxu’s hand, “Let’s go home.” Back at the apartment, Zhou Tianzui opened the refrigerator, gesturing for You Ruxu to put it inside. You Ruxu said, “Let’s put it on the windowsill.”

Zhou Tianzui looked at her, then they placed the snowman on the wide windowsill outside. You Ruxu seemed very happy, even checking on it after her shower to see if it had melted. Zhou Tianzui, drying her hair behind her, seeing You Ruxu staring at the snowman, chuckled, “If you like it that much, I’ll make another one tomorrow.”

“No need.” You Ruxu said, “I’m not a three-year-old.”

Not a three-year-old.

Yet so captivated by it. Zhou Tianzui finished drying her hair, walked over to You Ruxu, her hand resting on her back. The heater was on, and You Ruxu was only wearing a thin nightgown after her shower. You Ruxu said, “I still have some emails to send,” and brushed past Zhou Tianzui, not giving her a chance to speak. Zhou Tianzui watched as she went to the living room, drew the curtains, then followed her. You Ruxu sat at the coffee table, typing. Zhou Tianzui scrolled through her phone, there was so much news every day, too much to keep up with, but the major events were just a few, and the one related to You Ruxu was Fengyuan.

Zhou Tianzui read the latest news about Fengyuan, the same old topics, she wasn’t sure if someone was deliberately stirring up trouble, but the buzz remained high, the comments section a heated debate. Thinking of someone following You Ruxu today, she didn’t think it was that simple.

After browsing for a bit, she asked You Ruxu, “What do you think of Zhou Heng?”

You Ruxu’s typing paused, “Impulsive, extreme, but not stupid.”

In other words, whether today’s incident was his doing was questionable. You Ruxu didn’t believe it was Zhou Heng, but currently, all the evidence pointed towards him.

Zhou Tianzui said, “Impulsive people are easy targets.”

You Ruxu looked at her.

Zhou Tianzui smiled, “That’s how it always plays out on TV.”

You Ruxu chuckled, hearing that, then lowered her eyes, her lips pursed. Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

The crystal chandelier in the living room cast a bright, warm glow, the curtains drawn to keep the warmth inside. You Ruxu, typing rapidly, her gaze focused and captivating, her slender neck gracefully bent, her milky skin looking even fairer and smoother in the light. Zhou Tianzui watched her for a few seconds, leaned closer, and asked, “Not done yet?”

“Almost.” You Ruxu was finishing up a document. She turned her head slightly when Zhou Tianzui leaned in, their eyes meeting, so close that she could see each distinct eyelash, her own reflection in Zhou Tianzui’s pupils. You Ruxu’s hand on the keyboard curled slightly. Zhou Tianzui was sitting behind her on the sofa, but having leaned closer, she slid down and sat on the carpet beside You Ruxu, her back against the soft sofa.

The room felt cozy and warm.

Chapter 78: Hug Me

Zhou Tianzui walked over to You Ruxu, “Why are you here?”

Her voice was gentle. The nurse pushing the patient’s bed glanced at Zhou Tianzui, wondering if she had misheard. When did Zhou Tianzui speak so softly? She was usually as strict as a homeroom teacher, her reprimands making people cower.

You Ruxu said, “I was bored lying in bed, so I came to see you. Are you going in?”

She moved aside. Zhou Tianzui removed her gloves, tossed them into the trash can, and said, “She’s just having contractions, it’ll be a while. Want to go to my office?”

You Ruxu shook her head.

Zhou Tianzui looked at her.

You Ruxu said, “You go ahead with your work, I’ll just watch.”

Zhou Tianzui smiled, “Watch what?”

“Watch you work.” Her voice was soft. Zhou Tianzui said, “What’s so interesting about watching me work—”

You Ruxu said, “It is interesting.”

Zhou Tianzui’s eyes crinkled with amusement, trying to maintain a neutral expression, her heart filled with a sweet warmth, like honey. She wanted to pinch You Ruxu’s cheek, to hug her, kiss her, but they were in a hospital corridor, people coming and going. She put her hands in her pockets, “Then watch.”

She wouldn’t be visible once she entered the delivery room. You Ruxu sat on a bench in the corridor, watching Zhou Tianzui go back and forth. She remembered the first time she interviewed the obstetrics and gynecology department, it had been like this too. Back then, they weren’t very close, and Zhou Tianzui hadn’t wanted her to wait too long, always hurrying over to her, saying, “Sorry, I’m a little busy, you can go to the office and have some tea.”

And she had said, “It’s okay, I can observe and learn.”

She hadn’t learned much about medical procedures, but she had become captivated by Zhou Tianzui, who calmly and efficiently arranged surgeries and diagnoses. Back then, Zhou Tianzui wasn’t as strict as she was now, but the signs were already there, and later…

You Ruxu felt as if she had spent a hazy period with Zhou Tianzui, a hazy mix of pain and happiness.

It was completely different from how it felt being with Zhou Tianzui now.

The next time Zhou Tianzui came out, the person who had been sitting on the bench was gone. Her heart sank, a sharp, fleeting pain. She chided herself for being sentimental. It was just a short absence, why did it feel so strange?

But You Ruxu didn’t even say goodbye.

Zhou Tianzui returned to her office and grabbed her phone, messaging You Ruxu: [When did you leave?]

You Ruxu was in her ward. Yao Zhao, despite being told to choose what she wanted, had bought You Ruxu’s favorite food, having observed her preferences. You Ruxu felt bad and took her out to eat.

She received Zhou Tianzui’s message just as she and Yao Zhao reached a restaurant. She replied: [Just a while ago, Yao Zhao came over, I’m taking her out for dinner.]

You Ruxu thought for a moment and then asked: [Haven’t had dinner yet, have you? Want me to bring you something?]

Zhou Tianzui: [Bring me something.]

Zhou Tianzui: [No need to bring it up, I’ll come over after work.]

You Ruxu: [Okay.]

Knowing she was busy, You Ruxu didn’t say anything more, putting away her phone and entering the restaurant with Yao Zhao. She ordered three milk teas, holding the warm cups in her hands, and handed one to Yao Zhao.

Yao Zhao bit her lip, then said softly, “Thank you, Sister.”

Obedient and well-behaved, her eyes much brighter than when they first met. You Ruxu, contacting her homeroom teacher earlier, had been told, “Yao Zhao has changed a lot recently, she’s even started interacting with her classmates.”

You Ruxu reached out and patted Yao Zhao’s head, “Let’s go.”

On their way, You Ruxu called out, “Yao Zhao…”

Yao Zhao, holding the warm milk tea, turned to her. You Ruxu was about to speak, then frowned slightly, “It’s nothing, let’s go back to the hospital.”

“Oh, okay.” But weren’t they going out for dinner?

But there was still the food she bought at the hospital, they couldn’t waste it. Yao Zhao didn’t question her, just followed You Ruxu, who was walking quickly. You Ruxu glanced back at Yao Zhao, then suddenly reached out and took her hand. Yao Zhao froze for a moment, then You Ruxu pulled her along, hurrying towards the hospital.

After entering, You Ruxu released Yao Zhao’s hand.

Yao Zhao finally reacted, “Sister, what’s wrong?”

You Ruxu said, “Nothing.”

Yao Zhao said, “Were we being followed?”

You Ruxu looked at her.

Yao Zhao said, “Two men in black were following us just now.”

You Ruxu smiled, “Were you scared?”

Yao Zhao wanted to say yes, but she didn’t feel that scared, perhaps because she was with You Ruxu, her fear lessened. She said, “I didn’t have time to be scared.”

She was even making jokes now.

You Ruxu said, “Let’s go inside.”

They entered the hospital. You Ruxu glanced back, the two men who had been following them were gone.

Following her?

Connecting it to her recent car accident.

You Ruxu frowned slightly. This wasn’t the first time she had been followed, but this time, it seemed too obvious, almost as if they wanted her to see them.

If it was really Zhou Heng.

What was he trying to do?

Intimidate her?

It seemed a little childish.

You Ruxu took Yao Zhao back to her ward, ordered takeout, and Yao Zhao said, “But there’s already food here.”

“We’ll have this with Dr. Zhou later, I ordered some of your favorite food for tonight.” You Ruxu explained. Yao Zhao blushed, “Thank you, Sister.”

You Ruxu smiled.

Yao Zhao asked, “Sister, those people who were following us just now, was it because of your news report?”

You Ruxu looked at her.

Yao Zhao continued, “I heard from my classmates that your car accident was because of the news story you were investigating.”

And what Dr. Zhou had said this morning about the mortality rate of reporters.

Yao Zhao was worried.

You Ruxu said, “That’s not certain yet.” She looked at Yao Zhao, “Were you scared just now?”

Yao Zhao looked at her, her eyes clear: “What about you, Sister, were you scared?”

You Ruxu thought for a moment, then shook her head, “No.”

Yao Zhao asked, “Why not? Aren’t you afraid?”

“I am afraid.” You Ruxu said, “It’s normal to be afraid.” She then asked Yao Zhao, “I remember you said you wanted to be a police officer.”

Yao Zhao nodded, “I do.”

You Ruxu asked her, “Will you be afraid when you’re arresting criminals?”

Yao Zhao hesitated, “I…”

You Ruxu asked again, “Will you be too scared to act?”

Yao Zhao didn’t hesitate: “No.”

You Ruxu smiled. Yao Zhao seemed to understand. She looked at You Ruxu and smiled as well, the milk tea in her hand still warm, tasting extra sweet, extra comforting.

After dinner, You Ruxu cleared the table. Yao Zhao said, “I’ll take out the trash later.”

“Are you, going home today?”

Yao Zhao said, “I’m staying at the school dormitory now, I’ve already arranged it.”

You Ruxu pursed her lips, “What about the weekend?”

Yao Zhao paused for two seconds, “The police officer came to see me today, she said she would tell him the results.” She was referring to Yao Zhao’s stepfather. Yao Zhao continued, “I asked her to tell him tomorrow instead.”

You Ruxu asked, “Why?”

“I know he’ll want me to go back home.” Yao Zhao’s tone was much calmer than before, as if she had made up her mind. She continued, “I also know he’ll definitely tell the media that I lied, that I made it all up.”

He had evidence.

He had a legitimate reason.

That kind of person, to force her to go back home, would definitely spread such rumors.

You Ruxu looked down.

Yao Zhao said, “So, Sister, please publish the story.”

You Ruxu looked up. The light fell on Yao Zhao. She remembered their first meeting, the girl’s head lowered, being pushed around by her classmates, not even fighting back, wearing a washed but thin school uniform that blended with the night, silently enduring, like a little mute. So different from the girl now, her eyes clear and bright, talking about her dreams for the future.

Such a good child.

You Ruxu said, “Yao Zhao.”

Yao Zhao said, “Sister, do you know what makes me happiest right now?”

You Ruxu asked, “What?”

“Meeting you and Dr. Zhou.” Yao Zhao said, “I’m really lucky to have met you.”

Although they had only known each other for a short time, although they hadn’t talked much, You Ruxu and Zhou Tianzui’s influence on her was profound. They had planted a seed of hope in her heart, and she had carefully nurtured it, already seeing it sprout.

Yao Zhao said, “Sister, please publish the story.”

Publish the whole truth. After the story was out, she would cooperate with the investigation, request community intervention, she could avoid going back to that home. She knew what this meant, she might face an even bigger storm, but she wasn’t afraid.

Yao Zhao’s eyes were firm, without the uncertainty she had shown at their first meeting. She had a clear plan, a definite goal.

You Ruxu paused for a moment, then nodded, “Okay.”

Yao Zhao’s heart lightened, and she smiled. She wanted to hug You Ruxu, but didn’t dare to. You Ruxu stood up, walked over, and hugged her. Yao Zhao was shorter than her, and very thin. She was overcome with emotion, hugging You Ruxu’s waist tightly, her voice choked with tears, “Sister, I’ll call you.”

“I’ll pay you back as soon as I have money.”

Still worried about the money.

You Ruxu chuckled, “I know.”

Yao Zhao said, “Sister, thank you—”

She started crying, her embrace tightening.

There was a knock on the door. Zhou Tianzui opened the door, they hadn’t let go yet, and she raised an eyebrow, “What’s going on here?”

Yao Zhao, embarrassed, said, “I’ll be going now, Sister.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Wait.”

Yao Zhao looked at her. Zhou Tianzui asked, “Are you going back to the school?”

Yao Zhao had mentioned wanting to stay at the school dormitory this morning, so she nodded. Zhou Tianzui said, “My colleague lives near your school, I’ll ask her to drive you back.”

Yao Zhao said, “Okay, thank you, Dr. Zhou.”

Her demeanor was much more composed now.

Zhou Tianzui took her to her colleague. After Yao Zhao left, Zhou Tianzui returned to the ward and saw You Ruxu standing by the window. She closed the door and walked over, “What are you looking at?”

You Ruxu said, “It’s snowing outside.”

Zhou Tianzui nodded, “What did you and Yao Zhao talk about?”

You Ruxu said, “She wants me to publish her story.”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Didn’t we decide not to?”

“Her stepfather won’t agree.” You Ruxu said, “Have you noticed how much Yao Zhao has changed?”

Zhou Tianzui said, “Yes, she’s even clinging to you now.”

You Ruxu chuckled, hearing her words.

Zhou Tianzui looked at her, “Still laughing? Come here.”

You Ruxu asked, “What for?”

Zhou Tianzui extended her arms, “To hug me.”