Category: Little Bodyguard(GL)

Chapter 84

On their way home from the hospital, Li Qinyue didn’t mention the accident, only reminding Zhuo Zhi of the precautions for a fractured arm.

Zhuo Zhi nodded repeatedly, memorizing everything carefully, and promised to focus on recovering.

Li Qinyue was satisfied and patted her head.

Back at the apartment, Li Qinyue still didn’t mention the accident. The takeout they had ordered in the car arrived quickly. She opened the containers and sat beside Zhuo Zhi, carefully feeding her.

Zhuo Zhi ate a wonton with her left hand, and as soon as she swallowed, Li Qinyue offered her a piece of vegetable with her chopsticks.

Zhuo Zhi opened her mouth and ate it, then said to Li Qinyue with a sweet smile, “You should eat too, Sister.”

“I’ll eat after you finish,” Li Qinyue said with a smile, “Do I sound like a mother?”

Zhuo Zhi giggled, putting down the spoon and picking up her chopsticks, “Mother, let’s eat together, I’ll try.”

She managed to pick up a piece of meat with her chopsticks, but it dropped halfway to her mouth.

“Ah…” Zhuo Zhi let out a soft cry of frustration.

Li Qinyue picked up the meat with a tissue and threw it in the trash, “Don’t waste food.”

Zhuo Zhi said, “I’ll practice, I’ll get the hang of it, I’ve never had a hand injury before, so I’ve never had to practice this.”

Li Qinyue took away her chopsticks and put the spoon back in her hand, “You’ll have plenty of time to practice later, eat first.”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi obediently ate with the spoon.

Li Qinyue looked at her, “You’ve never injured your hand before, but you’ve injured your leg?”

Zhuo Zhi said, “Not really injured, just sprained my ankle a few times. And when I was seven or eight, I fell into a ditch and cut my calf, that’s all, just minor things.”

Li Qinyue looked down at her legs, “I don’t see any scars.”

“My skin heals quickly, I don’t scar easily,” Zhuo Zhi pointed at her forehead, “So don’t worry about the scrape on my face, it won’t leave a scar.”

“Hmm,” Li Qinyue said, “Even if it does, it’s not a big deal, we can just get it treated.”

“Scar removal treatments are expensive, I’m saving you money,” Zhuo Zhi said.

“No need to save money,” Li Qinyue said, “I’m going back once your arm heals.”

Zhuo Zhi froze, her underlying anxieties resurfacing. She threw down the spoon and grabbed Li Qinyue’s hand, “Going back where?”

“Back to my old life, as Miss Li. As for where I’ll live, the villa on the mountain isn’t convenient, I might go back to the apartment in the city center,” Li Qinyue picked up a piece of meat with her chopsticks, “Open your mouth.”

Zhuo Zhi quickly ate the meat, “Why are you suddenly going back? Do you still want me?”

“If I don’t want you, who would I want?” Li Qinyue said, “You’re useful.”

“But your family…”

“I’ll talk to my father, don’t worry about it,” Li Qinyue picked up another piece of meat, “Eat.”

As long as Li Qinyue still wanted her, it would be fine.

Li Qinyue clearly didn’t want to discuss this further, and with her personality, once she made a decision, no one could change her mind.

Although she hadn’t gotten angry, Zhuo Zhi knew that such a serious accident couldn’t have no impact on their relationship.

Now that Li Qinyue had revealed part of her plan, Zhuo Zhi felt a little more at ease.

The conflict with her family would have to be resolved eventually, and Li Qinyue couldn’t work at a bar forever. This was just bringing their future plans forward. Zhuo Zhi pondered as she ate, thinking it wasn’t a big deal.

After they finished eating, Li Qinyue pushed Zhuo Zhi aside and cleared the table herself. It was just takeout containers and disposable cutlery, easy to throw away. Zhuo Zhi, watching her casual movements, wondered if Li Qinyue would really throw away the dishes if they had eaten from their own plates, as she had said when they first met.

After cleaning up, Li Qinyue turned to Zhuo Zhi and pointed, “Let’s go to the bathroom.”

“I can wash my face and brush my teeth myself!” Zhuo Zhi said confidently.

“Can you take a shower?” Li Qinyue raised an eyebrow.

“I can’t get my arm wet,” Zhuo Zhi pointed at her cast.

“So you can’t, which means I have to take care of you,” Li Qinyue pulled her towards the bathroom, “You stink, can’t you smell it?”

Zhuo Zhi sniffed herself, a little embarrassed, “The scent is a bit… complex.”

Li Qinyue squeezed toothpaste onto the toothbrush, put it in Zhuo Zhi’s left hand, then held a cup of water for her, “Brush.”

“This is…” Zhuo Zhi looked at the cup in Li Qinyue’s hand and smiled, “You’re so thoughtful, Sister.”

“You’re the first person I’ve ever waited on hand and foot like this,” Li Qinyue said, nudging Zhuo Zhi’s butt lightly with her foot, “Hurry up and brush.”

“Okay, okay, okay, thank you, Sister,” Zhuo Zhi quickly put the toothbrush in her mouth and started brushing diligently.

When she was ready to rinse her mouth, Li Qinyue held the cup to her lips. They worked together seamlessly, no water spilled, no choking, as if they were one person.

“Sister…” Zhuo Zhi looked at her, “I’ll be done soon, and then I’ll do anything you want.”

Li Qinyue nudged her aside, wet a towel with warm water, and placed it on Zhuo Zhi’s face, “What are you thinking about when you say that?”

“Just… mmm… taking care… mmm… of you…” Zhuo Zhi mumbled, her face being rubbed by the towel.

“Taking care of me how?”

“Any way…” The towel was removed, and Zhuo Zhi took a deep breath, “Anything you want.”

Li Qinyue raised an eyebrow, “Take off your clothes.”

Zhuo Zhi wanted to rip off her clothes immediately to show her determination, but they were difficult to remove.

At the hospital, to avoid hurting her arm, Officer Sun hadn’t hesitated to cut her clothes. Now, with only half a sleeve, it was still difficult to take off.

Zhuo Zhi looked at Li Qinyue, who was watching her with amusement, arms crossed.

Zhuo Zhi knew she was waiting for her to ask for help, so she softened her voice and said, acting pitiful, “Sister, you said you wouldn’t touch my injured arm, no matter what.”

“That’s right,” Li Qinyue nodded.

“Then I can’t take off my clothes without touching it,” Zhuo Zhi said, her face full of worry, “I’ll need your help, Sister.”

“Help you with what?”

Zhuo Zhi sighed, “Help me take off my clothes.”

“Okay,” Li Qinyue was amused, “I’ll help you.”

She opened a nearby cabinet, took out a pair of large scissors, and approached Zhuo Zhi.

Li Qinyue had turned on the bathroom heater earlier, so the room was warm. The sudden appearance of the cold, sharp scissors near her neck made Zhuo Zhi instinctively flinch.

“Don’t move,” Li Qinyue looked at her, “I’m not as careful as you, if you move, I’ll cut you.”

Zhuo Zhi wasn’t afraid of a few cuts, and she didn’t think Li Qinyue would actually hurt her, but she still felt a surge of nervousness. She held still, her throat tightening, “I won’t move, go ahead.”

Li Qinyue’s smile was mischievous and dangerous.

She was doing this on purpose, the scissors moving slowly and deliberately against Zhuo Zhi’s skin, the rhythm uneven, sometimes fast, sometimes slow.

It only took two snips to cut the clothes, but Li Qinyue insisted on turning Zhuo Zhi’s clothes into rags.

As more and more skin was exposed, goosebumps erupted on Zhuo Zhi’s body, her toes tingling.

Li Qinyue’s scissors moved to her waistband. Zhuo Zhi looked down at her, “No need to cut my pants, Sister.”

Her voice was a little hoarse. Li Qinyue looked up and asked, “Do you think I’m stupid? Of course I know that.”

“Oh, you’re not,” Zhuo Zhi quickly said, “I am.”

“I won’t tease you anymore, it’s late, we’re both tired,” Li Qinyue threw the scissors aside and pulled down Zhuo Zhi’s pants in one swift motion, efficient and thorough.

Although they had been naked together many times in the past few days, being driven by lust was one thing, being forced by circumstances to do something so intimate in such a casual manner was another.

Zhuo Zhi’s face burned, she didn’t know what to do with her hands, “How are you going to…”

“Stand over there,” Li Qinyue said calmly, walking to the other side of the bathroom and turning on the shower. She looked at Zhuo Zhi, frowning slightly, “I’ve been thinking about how you’re going to take a shower, or rather, how you’re going to shower until your arm fully heals.”

“Ah,” Zhuo Zhi responded simply. There were too many parts of her body she needed to cover, and she could only use one hand, so she gave up on resisting, standing there stiffly like a porcelain doll.

“Let’s wash your lower body first,” Li Qinyue said, gesturing with her finger from below Zhuo Zhi’s chest down to her feet, “Use your left hand to support your right arm, hold it up higher.”

Zhuo Zhi did as she was told.

“Good,” Li Qinyue tested the water temperature and took two steps closer, “Don’t worry, I won’t get the parts that shouldn’t be wet, wet.”

Her words, coupled with the current situation, made Zhuo Zhi’s mind wander.

And she didn’t mind her mind wandering. What made her uncomfortable was that she couldn’t move.

And the position of her arm blocked her view. As the water cascaded down her body, a shiver ran down her spine, she felt like her body was split in two, her upper body shrouded in mist, her lower body submerged in a river.

Li Qinyue squatted down, her hand gently washing Zhuo Zhi’s stomach.

She wasn’t using a sponge or anything, just her hand, her soft fingertips slightly cool against Zhuo Zhi’s warm skin. Wherever her hand went, Zhuo Zhi’s mind followed.

And her mind inevitably wandered to certain places. Zhuo Zhi, unable to control her growing embarrassment, closed her eyes and tried to distract herself with another topic, “You’re getting your clothes wet, Sister…”

“So you’re suggesting I take them off?” Li Qinyue’s fingertips traced Zhuo Zhi’s smooth skin. “I’m afraid if I do, this shower won’t be so simple anymore.”

Her words made Zhuo Zhi tremble slightly. She bit her lip, screaming internally, Is it simple now?! It’s not simple now either!!!

“Why are you trembling?” Li Qinyue moved the showerhead closer, and the water made Zhuo Zhi tremble again.

“I…” Zhuo Zhi let out a soft sound, unable to help but take a step back.

“Why are you stepping back?” Li Qinyue slapped her thigh lightly, her voice stern, “Are you not enjoying my service?”

Zhuo Zhi, both amused and embarrassed, pleaded, “Sister, can we just rinse quickly? I’m not not enjoying it, I’m enjoying it too much, I can’t handle it anymore, my legs are weak.”

“Is life good?” Li Qinyue suddenly asked.

“It is good,” Despite the complex emotions swirling within her, Zhuo Zhi’s answer was immediate.

“Then cherish it,” Li Qinyue’s hand moved to her waist, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Cherish life.”

Chapter 83

Li Qinyue figured it was almost time for Zhuo Zhi to get off work, so she sent her a message, but there was no reply.

After about ten minutes, she called, but Zhuo Zhi didn’t answer.

Li Qinyue quickly changed her clothes and was about to leave the apartment when her phone rang.

It was Zhuo Zhi. She quickly answered, “Officer Xiao Zhuo, you’re free now?”

But it wasn’t Zhuo Zhi. It was Officer Zhao, “Xiao Li, where are you now?”

Li Qinyue’s heart skipped a beat, “I’m about to leave the apartment, Brother Zhao, did something happen to Zhuo Zhi?”

“There was a minor accident,” Officer Zhao said quickly, afraid of alarming her too much, “But she’s fine, she’s at the Third Hospital now, getting checked up.”

“If she’s at the hospital, how can you say she’s fine?!” Li Qinyue’s voice rose sharply, along with her heart rate. “Where is she? Is she awake?”

Officer Zhao also panicked, “Xiao Li, don’t worry, don’t worry, she’s awake, I’ll let her talk to you.”

“Okay,” Li Qinyue’s hand was trembling.

There were muffled voices and sounds of movement on the other end. It only lasted a few seconds, but to Li Qinyue, it felt like an eternity.

Zhuo Zhi’s voice, a little hoarse, finally came through the phone, “Sister, I’m fine.”

Li Qinyue felt a slight sense of relief. She didn’t speak to Zhuo Zhi, but said, “Give the phone to Officer Zhao.”

Officer Zhao took the phone, “Xiao Li, don’t worry, come slowly.”

Li Qinyue took a deep breath, “I’m on my way, thank you for taking care of Zhuo Zhi.”

Officer Zhao quickly responded. Li Qinyue wanted to ask more questions, but her heart was pounding, so she just hung up.

The Third Hospital was quite far from White Birch Lane, and it was difficult to get a taxi today.

Li Qinyue couldn’t bear any further delay. She logged into her other WeChat account, scrolled through the flood of messages, then entered a group chat and sent her location.

• Anyone nearby? Need a ride.

Her rich and idle friends were indeed faster than any ride-hailing app.

A car stopped in front of her. The driver greeted her excitedly, but Li Qinyue just got in and said curtly, “Don’t talk, Third Hospital.”

The driver, sensing her urgency, didn’t say a word, started the car, and even sped, running a red light.

When they reached the hospital, Li Qinyue jumped out and rushed inside. The elevator was packed, so she quickly turned and ran up the stairs.

She reached the fourth floor, breathless, and saw Officer Zhao as soon as she turned the corner.

Officer Zhao also saw her and hurried over, “Her head is fine, no internal injuries, just her arm…”

Li Qinyue’s brows furrowed.

“Fractured,” Officer Zhao said, “We just got the X-rays, the doctor is treating it now.”

“This room?” Li Qinyue pointed at a closed door.

“Yes.”

“Is there anyone with her?” Li Qinyue asked.

“Yes, Xiao Sun is inside.”

Li Qinyue’s frown deepened, “Officer Sun Qi, the one who was on duty with Zhuo Zhi?”

“Yes, he’s also injured, but insisted on staying with Zhuo Zhi.”

“Good,” Li Qinyue suddenly calmed down.

On her way to the hospital, she had thought of countless questions to ask, her anger directed at Zhuo Zhi, at Zhao Shangxing, even at the entire police system.

But now, hearing that Zhuo Zhi only had a fracture, her anger subsided.

She felt regret for having imagined worse scenarios, and relief that it wasn’t as bad as she had feared.

Now, her rationality told her to act like an adult, to handle the situation calmly, and not to overreact.

After all, she was representing Zhuo Zhi’s family now.

Li Qinyue pointed at a nearby chair, “Come on, Officer Zhao, let’s sit down and talk.”

She had tried to sound calm and composed, but to others, it probably didn’t come across that way.

As Officer Zhao sat down, he felt like he was being interrogated.

Li Qinyue said, “Please tell me about Zhuo Zhi’s injuries, and then explain how this accident happened.”

Zhao Shangxing was the one who had signed Zhuo Zhi’s recommendation letter, the one who had facilitated her employment at the station. Zhuo Zhi was young, and there was no precedent for hiring someone her age, but her exceptional martial arts skills had made everyone overlook that issue.

Now that something had happened, he was naturally responsible.

Especially seeing Li Qinyue’s eyes, barely suppressing her anger, he knew he had to be honest and not hide anything.

“A closed fracture, the doctor said it’s not serious…” Zhao Shangxing started explaining the situation. When he reached the part where Zhuo Zhi had saved Sun Qi by pushing him out of the way of the truck, his hands clenched, his palms sweating.

Li Qinyue remained silent.

Zhao Shangxing added more explanations, consolations, and reassurances, but Li Qinyue still didn’t speak.

Zhao Shangxing didn’t know what to do, so he just looked at her apologetically.

Then he saw Li Qinyue’s lips tremble. She leaned back against the wall, as if all the strength had drained from her body.

Li Qinyue didn’t look at him. She stared at the hospital ceiling for a while. Two gurneys carrying critically injured patients passed by in the hallway.

The buzzing in her ears gradually faded, and she finally spoke, “Isn’t this a miracle?”

Zhao Shangxing was about to nod, then hesitated and said, “It’s fortunate that Zhuo Zhi was there, otherwise Xiao Sun might have…”

Li Qinyue closed her eyes, “Yes, yes.”

Her tone was unreadable, so Zhao Shangxing didn’t dare to speak, just waited quietly with her.

Zhuo Zhi knew that Li Qinyue had arrived, so after her arm was put in a cast, she immediately got up, ready to leave.

The nurse stopped her, “Wait, we haven’t treated your face yet.”

“My face is fine,” Zhuo Zhi tried to pull her hand away, but the nurse held on tight.

The nurse was surprisingly strong. She pulled Zhuo Zhi back onto the chair, “How is it fine? You have a scrape here, a girl’s face is important, we need to disinfect it and clean it up so it won’t leave a scar.”

“They already treated it in the emergency room…” Zhuo Zhi was anxious.

“Why are you in such a hurry?!” the nurse said, her voice rising slightly, “This is for your own good, sit still! Don’t move!”

Sun Qi, who was waiting outside, also said immediately, “Don’t rush, Zhuo Zhi, listen to the doctor.”

Zhuo Zhi could only sit still, watching the nurse’s uniform and smelling the antiseptic.

Although this examination room wasn’t open to the public, it wasn’t strictly off-limits to companions either.

Li Qinyue had arrived at the hospital, but she hadn’t rushed in to see her. Zhuo Zhi knew she must be furious.

Last time, with just a stolen phone, it had taken so long to coax her, this time… The more Zhuo Zhi thought about it, the more anxious she felt, a sense of panic rising within her, the fear of losing Li Qinyue.

The fear made her break out in a cold sweat.

The moment the nurse finished treating her face, Zhuo Zhi jumped off the chair and rushed out.

This time, no one could stop her.

The nurse didn’t try to stop her either. She turned to Sun Qi, “You’re next, your face is a mess.”

“I’m fine,” Sun Qi said, trying to follow Zhuo Zhi, “I…”

“If you two are really fine, why are you even at the hospital?!” the nurse grabbed his arm, “It’s New Year’s, how can you face your family like this?”

Sun Qi still looked at Zhuo Zhi, “Zhuo Zhi, you…”

“Don’t worry about me, my sister is here,” Zhuo Zhi waved her hand and left the room.

Sun Qi wanted to follow her, but the nurse held him back, “Okay, her family is here, worry about yourself first.”

“I need to explain to her sister, I need to apologize…”

“No one blames you for this,” the nurse pushed him back onto the chair, “It was an accident. Isn’t there another officer outside? Just rest for a bit and let us treat your injuries.”

“But mine are just minor…”

“Okay,” the nurse pressed a cotton swab against his wound, silencing him with a hiss.

After his hiss of pain, the nurse’s hand became gentler, “Thank you for your hard work.”

Sun Qi smiled, wincing slightly, “Thank you too.”

Zhuo Zhi left the examination room, turned a couple of corners, and finally found Li Qinyue.

Li Qinyue was talking to the head nurse at the information desk, typing on her phone as she spoke.

Zhuo Zhi, seeing her, was momentarily stunned. Li Qinyue was beautiful, no matter what she wore, no matter her mood, she was always captivating.

Zhuo Zhi clenched her left hand, her injured hand, thinking, if the truck had been just a little bit closer, she might never see this beautiful person again.

Her heart pounded in her chest. At this moment, she mentally slapped herself, finally understanding what it meant to be truly afraid.

She didn’t regret her actions, but she was scared.

Zhuo Zhi stared at Li Qinyue, her gaze lingering, until Li Qinyue turned and looked at her.

The distance between them felt like a blurred image on a TV screen. Zhuo Zhi felt like they could see into each other’s souls.

Zhuo Zhi smiled faintly, making a silent promise. No matter how angry Li Qinyue was, she would coax her patiently, no matter how long it took.

Li Qinyue shifted her weight, and Zhuo Zhi quickly walked towards her.

She was fast, and by the time she reached Li Qinyue, Li Qinyue had only just turned around, taking one step.

“Sister…” Zhuo Zhi called out, “I wasn’t…”

She couldn’t finish her sentence. Li Qinyue reached out and hugged her.

It was a gentle hug, a careful hug, avoiding her injured arm, a hug that barely touched her shoulders.

But it was enough to make Zhuo Zhi speechless, her heart swelling with emotion, tears welling up in her eyes.

Li Qinyue’s hand rested on her head, gently stroking her hair, “Don’t cry, you have medicine on your face.”

Zhuo Zhi had never seen Li Qinyue so gentle, so caring, so forgiving.

This Li Qinyue wasn’t angry, wasn’t frowning, but her concern was palpable.

“Wait a minute, I have a few questions for the doctor,” Li Qinyue said, “Are you done here?”

“Yes,” Zhuo Zhi nodded vigorously, “The doctor said I can go home tonight.”

“You want to go home, don’t you?”

“Yes.”

“Good, we’ll go home soon,” Li Qinyue smiled, “Your heroic right hand is out of commission, I can finally relax.”

Zhuo Zhi immediately understood what she meant. Her worries vanished like a feather in the wind, and she smiled, “I still have my left hand.”

Chapter 82

Without the elder’s presence, Zhuo Zhi and Li Qinyue completely let loose.

During the New Year holidays, they should have been visiting relatives or gathering with friends, but one of them was estranged from her family, and the other didn’t have many friends or relatives, so they spent the entire time together, free as birds.

They stayed home when they didn’t feel like going out, and in addition to their usual activities, they added some “daily” activities…

Zhuo Zhi was always a quick learner, especially when it came to certain things.

She was energetic and attentive, and Li Qinyue felt refreshed and invigorated, her mood better than ever.

But such carefree days were always short-lived. Zhuo Zhi was supposed to return to work on the fifth day of the New Year, but the temperature had plummeted in the past few days, with occasional snow, severely affecting traffic. On the afternoon of the fourth day, she received a call from the station, asking her to come in for overtime duty.

Li Qinyue, looking at the snow-covered world outside, held her thermos and wondered, “Do criminals even work in this weather?”

“We don’t just deal with criminals,” Zhuo Zhi, already in her uniform, came over and kissed Li Qinyue’s cheek, “We also ensure the safety and happiness of the people.”

“How noble,” Li Qinyue pulled her closer and kissed her lips, “I’m also one of the people, Officer Xiao Zhuo.”

Zhuo Zhi asked with a smile, “Are you happy then?”

“Happy Qinyue,” Li Qinyue replied.

Zhuo Zhi giggled, “Happy Zhi.”

After seeing Zhuo Zhi off downstairs, Zhuo Zhi refused to let Li Qinyue follow her.

“It’s freezing,” Zhuo Zhi pushed Li Qinyue back, “Go back to bed, play some games, read a book, I’ll be back soon.”

“You might not be back soon at this hour,” Li Qinyue looked at her, “Remember, if you’re just on duty at the station, call me, I’ll bring you some snacks.”

“Okay, okay,” Zhuo Zhi nodded repeatedly.

“If you’re on patrol, let me know if you’re cold, hungry, or thirsty,” Li Qinyue zipped up Zhuo Zhi’s coat all the way to the top, “I have nothing to do anyway, going out for a walk would be nice.”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi said sweetly, her eyes crinkling into crescents.

Li Qinyue felt like a mother sending her child off to school, it didn’t suit her Miss Li persona at all. She finally patted Zhuo Zhi’s shoulder, “Go, go, get back early.”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi hugged her again, “You go back inside too.”

“Hmm,” Li Qinyue resisted the urge to watch her leave and turned to go upstairs.

Zhuo Zhi skipped out of the building, her footsteps crunching on the snow.

There were two door gods pasted on the entrance of the police station, looking majestic.

Zhuo Zhi saluted the door gods before entering.

There weren’t many people in the office. As she walked inside, she bumped into Officer Sun, who was rushing out.

Zhuo Zhi raised her hand to greet him, but Officer Sun, looking at her as if she were a lifesaver, rushed over and grabbed her hand, “Happy New Year, Xiao Zhuo.”

“Happy New Year, Xiao Sun,” they were close enough now for Zhuo Zhi to joke with him.

Officer Sun didn’t mind, he was just relieved to see her, “What’s our motto as people’s police officers?”

“Serve the people!” Zhuo Zhi answered immediately.

“Good!” Officer Sun pulled her wrist and turned her in the opposite direction, “Let’s go serve the people.”

“What’s going on?” Zhuo Zhi asked, trying to peek at the documents in his hand.

“Nothing special, just short-staffed,” Officer Sun said, “Heavy snow, we can’t clear the roads fast enough, there’s a huge traffic jam on the ring road, we need to go help.”

“Oh, okay,” So they were going to do traffic control. Zhuo Zhi felt a little excited.

The section of road they were assigned to wasn’t far. They parked the police car some distance away, and Officer Sun, wrapping his coat tightly around himself, said to Zhuo Zhi, “The car can’t go any further, we have to walk.”

“No problem,” Zhuo Zhi followed him, “Walking will keep us warm.”

Officer Sun looked at her with a smile, “Did you have a good New Year?”

“Yes!” Zhuo Zhi said immediately, skipping over a puddle of water.

Seeing her action, Officer Sun also skipped over the puddle, “Me too.”

“What are you happy about, Brother Sun?” Zhuo Zhi asked.

“My girlfriend got transferred back to Nanhai this year, we’re finally not in a long-distance relationship anymore,” Officer Sun, probably having waited a long time to share this news, couldn’t help but smile.

“Wow, congratulations!” Zhuo Zhi could relate to his happiness, it was wonderful for two people in love to be together.

“We’re getting engaged in the second half of this year!” Officer Sun said.

“That’s great!!!”

“We’ll get married this time next year!”

“Wonderful!!!”

“And maybe this time next year, I’ll have a daughter, hahaha…” Officer Sun couldn’t contain his excitement.

“Hahaha, or maybe a son,” Zhuo Zhi said.

“I want a daughter, hahaha.”

Zhuo Zhi, looking at the long line of cars stuck in traffic, wiped her face and stopped laughing, “We’re probably the only two people who are happy in this situation.”

Officer Sun followed her gaze, also wiping his face, his expression turning serious, “That’s why we can’t forget about everyone else even when we’re happy.”

Zhuo Zhi chuckled, looking down at the ground.

When they arrived at the scene, a salt truck was diligently working.

Compared to the congested highway, this area was relatively clear.

Officer Sun spoke to the traffic police on duty, then took a roll of barrier tape and led Zhuo Zhi forward.

“There’s a section of road that’s completely iced over, we need to block it off and redirect traffic.”

“They still need to redirect traffic in this condition? No wonder they’re short-staffed,” Zhuo Zhi made a few hand gestures, “Are my signals correct, Brother Sun?”

“They are,” Officer Sun said with a smile, “You’re so pretty, you look good doing anything.”

Zhuo Zhi blinked, “I’m pretty?”

“You and your sister are both pretty,” Officer Sun said, “Very beautiful.”

“Tsk, compared to your girlfriend?”

Officer Sun raised his chin proudly, “My girlfriend is still the prettiest.”

They hadn’t been partners for long, but they got along well, mainly because they were on the same wavelength.

No matter how difficult or tiring the work was, Officer Sun was always cheerful and optimistic. Zhuo Zhi felt like they were kindred spirits.

They understood each other, worked well together, and helped people returning from the holidays get back to work smoothly, starting a new chapter of the year. Zhuo Zhi felt that even overtime duty was enjoyable and meaningful.

As the sky gradually darkened, they moved the barrier tape several times, the flow of traffic endless.

Officer Sun looked at his watch and typed quickly on his phone, “Half an hour more, then you can go home and rest.”

“What about you?” Zhuo Zhi asked.

“I’ll stay a little longer,” Officer Sun stamped his feet, “It gets cold quickly after dark, girls get cold easily, you can’t stay out here for too long.”

“I don’t get cold easily, I have a fiery constitution,” Zhuo Zhi rubbed her hands together and showed them to him, “See? They’re red, I have fire in my blood.”

Officer Sun chuckled, “Young people are always full of fire.”

“Of course,” Zhuo Zhi joked, “You can’t compare to me.”

Officer Sun laughed for a moment, then said, “I’ve already talked to Zhang Xiang, he’ll come and relieve you later.”

Just as Zhuo Zhi was about to speak, Officer Sun added, “If you stay any longer, your sister will probably come and join you.”

Zhuo Zhi’s words died in her throat.

Li Qinyue would always keep track of her work schedule. Although she wouldn’t disturb her, there was a high chance she would come and wait for her.

She didn’t get cold easily, but Li Qinyue did. When they slept together, Zhuo Zhi would always have to warm up Li Qinyue’s feet with hers.

She couldn’t let her wait in the cold.

Zhuo Zhi nodded, “Okay, I’ll go back when Brother Zhang arrives.”

“Good girl,” Officer Sun patted her shoulder.

Zhuo Zhi mechanically directed the traffic, “Your girlfriend will be waiting for you too, Brother Sun.”

Officer Sun, struggling with a patch of ice with his shovel, said, “She went to a hot spring with her mother, she won’t be waiting for me.”

But he was smiling as he said it.

Zhuo Zhi said, “Did you just…”

She stopped mid-sentence. A truck, which had been driving normally, suddenly swerved, squeezing between two cars, and heading straight for the barrier tape.

The two cars were pushed aside, the sound of metal scraping against metal echoing through the air. The truck continued unimpeded, heading straight for Officer Sun.

“Sun Qi!!!” Zhuo Zhi’s voice cracked as she shouted his name.

She only had time to shout his name, even if she had said more, no ordinary person would have been able to react in time.

Zhuo Zhi’s heart pounded in her chest, her ears ringing. She didn’t think, she just ran, her mind focused on finding a way to survive.

She pushed Sun Qi to the ground, and they both slid for a short distance. Zhuo Zhi raised her arm to protect Sun Qi’s head, then everything went black, a sudden darkness, and the screeching sound of metal.

As the pain hit her, Zhuo Zhi finally had time to think, Sister is waiting for me at home, Officer Sun’s girlfriend is at a hot spring…

This time next year, they’ll be married.

And a year after that, they’ll have a lovely daughter.

Zhuo Zhi’s lips curved into a smile. If they both survived, during the media interview, she, Officer Xiao Zhuo, would definitely say:

“I saved him.”

“I wasn’t afraid.”

“I’m not even afraid now, thinking back.”

“I would do it again.”

“Because I’m Zhuo Zhi, and Sun Qi is a good person.”

Chapter 81

New Year’s Day morning was quiet. They had stayed up late the previous night, so sleeping in wouldn’t annoy the “parent” today.

But there were limits. Especially for the Master, who was used to the mountain life. She had already made breakfast, and the morning sun was streaming through the windows, yet there was no movement from the guest bedroom. This was unacceptable.

The Master stood at the bedroom door, her hand raised to knock, then lowered it.

She paced back and forth, then returned to the kitchen and took out her phone.

In the small guest bedroom, Li Qinyue was snuggled in Zhuo Zhi’s arms. She was taller than Zhuo Zhi, so the position was awkward, but she refused to move, curled up like a ball.

Zhuo Zhi had woken up earlier, but she couldn’t bring herself to wake Li Qinyue, so she just held her close, listening to her soft breaths.

A phone started ringing, vibrating on the table.

Li Qinyue’s brows furrowed, and she stirred, but only snuggled closer to Zhuo Zhi.

Zhuo Zhi raised her hand to cover Li Qinyue’s ear, but after the first round of ringing, the phone started ringing again.

Zhuo Zhi had to reach for the phone, earning a couple of disgruntled groans from Li Qinyue.

Seeing the caller ID, Zhuo Zhi froze, a shiver running down her spine.

It was the Master. But Zhuo Zhi knew she wasn’t calling for her, she was just sending a message.

A message to wake them up? A message telling them not to laze around in bed? Or a warning… against daytime naughtiness…?

After last night’s activities, Zhuo Zhi, whose face she thought had become as thick as a wall, suddenly blushed again. She hung up the phone and quickly sent a message to the Master: We’re up.

After sending the message, she practically jumped out of bed, landing lightly on her feet.

Li Qinyue pulled the covers higher, trying to hide herself.

Zhuo Zhi tucked her in, leaving her head exposed so she could breathe, then couldn’t resist kissing her forehead before leaving the room.

The Master was setting the table for breakfast. Zhuo Zhi greeted her, feeling a little awkward.

The Master didn’t even glance at her, just served herself a bowl of porridge.

Zhuo Zhi pointed at the bathroom, “I’ll go wash up first.”

The Master finally looked up, “And the other one?”

Zhuo Zhi stammered, “She’s still asleep, I mean, last night, we were watching TV, staying up for the New Year, she fell asleep, I’ll wake her up later…”

Her palms were sweating.

The Master stared at her for two seconds, then hummed in response and continued eating her porridge.

Zhuo Zhi quickly escaped to the bathroom, taking an unusually long time to wash up.

When she came out, the Master had already finished her porridge and gone back to the bedroom.

Zhuo Zhi was stunned, “Is that all you’re eating, Master?”

The Master’s back was to her as she replied, “Have you ever seen me eat more or less?”

Zhuo Zhi pursed her lips, unable to answer.

She really didn’t know how much the Master usually ate, but she herself ate a lot this morning.

Although she felt a little anxious, she was truly hungry. After two bowls of porridge, she had also almost finished all the dishes.

After breakfast, she went back to the guest bedroom to check on Li Qinyue, trying to wake her up gently, but Li Qinyue swatted her hand away, her soft palm landing on Zhuo Zhi’s neck.

Zhuo Zhi didn’t try again, letting her sleep, and went to clear the table.

After cleaning up the kitchen, she turned around and saw that the Master had already packed her suitcase.

Zhuo Zhi froze, rushing over to block her, “What are you doing, Master?”

“Going back to the mountain,” the Master said.

“Didn’t we agree that you’re not leaving? It’s New Year’s Day, stay a little longer,” Zhuo Zhi said anxiously.

“Who said I wasn’t leaving? I said I’m leaving today, so I’m leaving today,” the Master’s tone was firm.

“But…” Zhuo Zhi looked around, then suddenly pointed at the window, “Look, it’s snowing so heavily, and it’s New Year’s Day, there are no taxis on the street…”

The Master took out her phone, unlocked it, and showed it to her, “See? Pre-booked ride, arriving in five minutes. Who says you can’t go anywhere with money?”

“Why are they even working on New Year’s Day?!” Zhuo Zhi was annoyed at the taxi driver.

The Master pushed her aside. Zhuo Zhi, her mind racing, grabbed the Master’s arm, “You’re not leaving!”

“Do you think you can stop me?” The Master squinted at her.

“You’re not leaving,” Zhuo Zhi held on tight.

The Master tried to shake her off, but Zhuo Zhi clung to her arm, refusing to let go. She sighed in exasperation, “How long do you want me to stay? Am I just here to be your nanny? Is there any other reason?”

“You’re not a nanny!” Zhuo Zhi’s eyes were reddening, “We’ll do the chores from now on, me and Sister Qinyue.”

The Master patted her head with her other hand, “I never expected you to find such a dramatic love so quickly after coming down the mountain. When Li Qinyue’s father called me, I thought you had been tricked, scammed, or maybe you had lost your mind, I came here to bring you back to your senses.”

“But after staying here for a while, I realized that with your Sister Qinyue’s personality, there’s nothing we can do to stop you. You’re both adults, we can’t break your legs and force you to do what we want, so…” The Master paused, sighing, “You’re on your own now, let’s see what kind of life you two create.”

“No…” Tears rolled down Zhuo Zhi’s cheeks, “Are you abandoning me, Master…?”

The Master slapped her forehead lightly, “Stop crying, that might work on your Sister Qinyue, but not on me. Did I say I’m abandoning you? You’ll come crawling back to me when you break up and get hurt, and I’ll be waiting to laugh at you…”

“We’re not breaking up…”

“Get lost,” the Master shook her hand off, “Do you think I enjoy watching you two being all lovey-dovey? The cabbage I carefully raised has been eaten by a pig, and now I have to feed the pig, have you considered my feelings? Can you just let me go back to the mountain and have some peace and quiet?”

Her analogy made Zhuo Zhi look up, her feelings complex.

The guest bedroom door creaked open. Li Qinyue, still in her pajamas, looking sleepy, had clearly heard their conversation.

Her voice was hoarse, “Master, that hurts my feelings…”

Zhuo Zhi quickly explained, “She didn’t mean it that way, Sister…”

“I did.”

“It’s okay even if you did.”

They spoke simultaneously.

Then Li Qinyue smiled, not wanting to get involved in their argument, and just leaned against the door frame, “Master, if you don’t want to stay here today, it’s fine. You can come back anytime, this is our home.”

“Zhuo Zhi definitely doesn’t want you to leave, but we can’t stop you if you really want to go. We just don’t want you to leave unhappy,” Li Qinyue paused, “Although you might not be happy about some things, at least be honest with us, don’t make Zhuo Zhi feel guilty, she loves you.”

Zhuo Zhi immediately nodded, “Yes, I love you!”

The Master sighed, “I’ve made myself clear, it’s time for me to leave. I can’t say I’m leaving happily, but I’m not leaving angrily either… damn, that doesn’t sound right!”

Li Qinyue chuckled, and Zhuo Zhi also laughed.

The Master pulled Zhuo Zhi’s hand away from her arm, “Let’s just leave it at that. All good things must come to an end. I can’t listen to you two every night…”

She stopped mid-sentence, her lips pursing.

Zhuo Zhi’s smile vanished, and so did Li Qinyue’s. They both blushed.

The Master seized the opportunity and pulled her suitcase towards the door. Her phone rang, the taxi driver calling.

“Yes, come in, you’ll see a yellow flowerbed, park there, I’ll be there in two minutes…”

Zhuo Zhi quickly followed her. The Master raised her hand, “Don’t see me off, it’s awkward, you know I can carry my own luggage.”

Zhuo Zhi: “I…”

“I didn’t see you off when you left,” the Master picked up her suitcase and walked out the door without looking back, “It’s truly awkward. Bye.”

Zhuo Zhi could only say, “Bye.”

Li Qinyue raised her voice, “Goodbye, Master! I’ll video call you!”

The Master’s voice echoed from the stairwell, loud and clear, “You idiot, what’s there to see?!”

The echo faded.

The door was still open. Zhuo Zhi stood there, looking lost.

The apartment was quiet. Li Qinyue, not wanting to disturb her, turned and went into the bathroom, “I’m going to take a shower, I’m starving.”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi turned around, her voice still a little dazed, “There will be food when you come out.”

The sound of running water came from the bathroom. Zhuo Zhi closed the door and went to the kitchen.

She had almost finished the food the Master had made for breakfast, but there were plenty of ingredients left, just needing to be chopped, seasoned, and heated up.

They were all familiar flavors, the taste of home.

The taste of home could be carried on, from the mountains to the city, from familial love to romantic love.

Zhuo Zhi opened the steamer, the rising steam making her eyes water.

It wasn’t pure happiness, nor was it pure sadness, not grievance, not relief, but a mix of emotions, hard to describe.

If she had to summarize it, she would say it was the taste of growing up.

After setting the table for one, Li Qinyue still hadn’t come out of the bathroom.

Zhuo Zhi knocked on the door, “Sister, dinner is ready.”

“Hmm,” Li Qinyue’s muffled voice came from inside, then she said, “I forgot my underwear.”

“Oh, wait a minute,” Zhuo Zhi quickly went to the bedroom, took out the underwear from the closet, opened the bathroom door a crack, and handed it to Li Qinyue.

“I can’t reach it,” Li Qinyue’s voice was accompanied by the sound of running water.

Zhuo Zhi had to open the door wider, squeezing halfway inside.

“You’re letting all the heat out,” Li Qinyue complained, but still didn’t take the underwear.

Zhuo Zhi took a deep breath, entered the bathroom, and closed the door behind her, “What are you doing, Sister?”

The bathroom was filled with steam, a hazy white, but the small space couldn’t hide anything.

Li Qinyue’s almost perfect body was right there in the mist, water droplets clinging to her smooth skin, like a beautiful painting.

Zhuo Zhi’s gaze darted around, the thin fabric in her hand suddenly feeling incredibly sensual.

Li Qinyue looked at her, her wet hair clinging to her shoulders, her voice seductive, “What do you think I’m doing?”

Zhuo Zhi pursed her lips, wanting to remind her that doing it too often might not be good for her health.

But how was it not good? Zhuo Zhi thought, it would make you hungry, wouldn’t it?

Hadn’t Li Qinyue just said she was starving? Was that the kind of hunger she meant?

Zhuo Zhi swallowed.

Li Qinyue chuckled, bending down slightly to look at her. Her next words, however, were completely unexpected.

Pointing at her own breasts, she yelled, her voice regaining its familiar fierceness, “Look what you’ve done!!! This is flesh! Living flesh! Not a milk bottle! Not a stress ball! You were squeezing so hard! Look! Take a good look! Doesn’t it look enticing?!”

Zhuo Zhi, despite her shock, couldn’t help but laugh, “It does… look enticing…”

Chapter 80

As the New Year’s bell was about to toll, the countdown on the TV in the living room was loud.

Li Qinyue could hear the hosts chanting “five, four, three, two,” but her head was spinning, everything a blur.

When they reached “one,” the firecrackers outside exploded, the crackling sound continuous and deafening, like rising smoke.

And the tide within her body surged, rising, finally reaching its peak.

Li Qinyue had held back all night, forcing herself to stay silent.

But as Zhuo Zhi’s fingers withdrew, she lost control.

A soft moan escaped her lips, drawn out and breathy.

It was dramatic, as seductive as any movie heroine, making Li Qinyue’s own skin crawl.

She wanted to explain that it wasn’t intentional, but then realized that unintentional moans weren’t any less embarrassing than intentional ones.

She, Miss Li, at her age, reduced to a blushing mess by a little girl, it was truly humiliating.

And she was tired, truly exhausted. All she could move now were her thoughts, and those thoughts, detaching themselves from her body, pushed Zhuo Zhi away, urging her to get out of bed and take a hot shower.

The hot water felt so good, so relaxing that she started to drift off.

But an annoying voice whispered in her ear, “Sister.”

Li Qinyue hummed in response, unsure if she had actually made a sound.

“How are you feeling?” Zhuo Zhi continued to whisper in her ear.

“Hot,” Li Qinyue pushed her away.

But instead of pushing Zhuo Zhi away, her back was now pressed against Zhuo Zhi’s body. Although she was the one who was exhausted, Zhuo Zhi’s body was burning hot, damp and clingy, sparking inappropriate thoughts in Li Qinyue’s mind.

“Do you want to wash up?” Zhuo Zhi asked.

“No,” Li Qinyue turned over to lie flat, waving her hand dismissively at Zhuo Zhi’s chest, “You’re the one who needs to wash up.”

“But…” Zhuo Zhi hesitated, then leaned closer to her ear and whispered, “You’re so wet down there.”

Li Qinyue thought she was calm, lulled by the warmth of the water, but Zhuo Zhi’s words were like a firecracker exploding in her mind, making her head spin.

The heat rushed to her face, chasing away the drowsiness. Li Qinyue nudged Zhuo Zhi with her elbow, “What are you talking about?”

“Just stating a fact,” Zhuo Zhi’s voice held a hint of amusement. Her hand, moving under the covers, found Li Qinyue’s, “If you don’t believe me, touch it yourself, Sister.”

“Damn,” Li Qinyue couldn’t help but curse.

“You don’t have to touch it,” Zhuo Zhi didn’t pull her hand down, just gently rubbed her fingertips, “Touching my fingers is the same, you can feel it.”

Li Qinyue shook off her hand and turned to face her, “Are you possessed?”

“No, it’s me, Zhuo Zhi,” Zhuo Zhi looked at her, a silly grin on her face, but her eyes were gentle, “I’m just happy.”

“What’s there to be happy about?” Li Qinyue pouted, “You were the one who rejected me before, not the other way around.”

“I didn’t reject you,” Zhuo Zhi’s hand moved to her waist, her fingers gently tracing circles like playing the piano, “I wanted it too.”

Li Qinyue mouthed the word “bullshit”, unable to make a sound.

“It’s true,” Zhuo Zhi leaned closer, “Sister, don’t you think my technique was good?”

“Your technique?” Li Qinyue felt the need to put her in her place, “You were just being reckless.”

“Did I hurt you?” Zhuo Zhi’s expression immediately turned anxious.

Li Qinyue, seeing her worried face, couldn’t help but find it amusing. She suppressed her laughter and said, “Of course you did.”

“Ah!” Zhuo Zhi threw off the covers and burrowed under them, “Then let me see if I hurt you.”

“Damn…” A wave of coldness washed over Li Qinyue’s legs. She felt like she was going crazy. She grabbed Zhuo Zhi’s hand and pulled her out, “Stop messing around!”

Zhuo Zhi’s face was still full of concern. Li Qinyue frowned, “It doesn’t hurt! It doesn’t hurt, okay?!”

“But it did hurt, right?” Zhuo Zhi’s face crumpled, “It was so tight towards the end, I felt like I was pushing against your flesh…”

Li Qinyue covered her mouth.

“Shut up,” Li Qinyue stared at her, her mind a little fuzzy, unable to focus, “That’s a normal reaction, it doesn’t hurt, it was quite…”

She paused, then admitted honestly, “Pleasurable.”

Zhuo Zhi’s eyes lit up.

Li Qinyue’s gaze involuntarily fell on her lips, which were still red and swollen from their prolonged kissing.

Li Qinyue tried to regain some composure, “If you have the energy, go take a shower and then… clean me up.”

Zhuo Zhi immediately jumped out of bed, “I do, I have plenty of energy!”

“Damn, be quiet!” Li Qinyue glared at her, “Do you want Master to hear us?”

“Oh, right,” Zhuo Zhi, as if just remembering that there was someone else in the apartment, covered her mouth with her hand and carefully picked up her clothes, tiptoeing towards the door.

Li Qinyue glanced at her, then felt the emptiness beside her, her emotions a tangled mess.

The little girl’s pajamas were still on her, but she, Li Qinyue, had given herself away completely.

Zhuo Zhi reached the door, opened it a crack, then suddenly turned back and said, “You smell like me, Sister.”

Li Qinyue’s frown deepened.

Zhuo Zhi waved her hand, then covered her mouth again, repeating, “You have my scent on you.”

Li Qinyue wanted to pull the covers over her head, but her age and pride wouldn’t allow it.

Zhuo Zhi, as if remembering something, suddenly closed the door, ran back, and squatted down beside the bed, looking at her.

“What’s wrong with you?” Li Qinyue felt like she was losing control of her carefully constructed persona.

Zhuo Zhi smiled and said, “Sister, you told me to tell you how it felt, I smelled it, but I haven’t tasted it yet.”

“Damn!” Li Qinyue threw a pillow at Zhuo Zhi’s head and burrowed under the covers, “Get out!”

Zhuo Zhi finally left, giggling. Li Qinyue, alone under the covers, after half a minute, popped her head out.

It was hard to describe the scent, but it wasn’t the usual scent of bedsheets. It was a mix of fluids, sweet and… musky.

It reminded her of what had just happened, of Zhuo Zhi’s possessive and passionate actions.

It was true that she had been a bit reckless, and it had hurt a little, but the pleasure was also real, overwhelming, explosive.

It was completely different from pleasuring herself.

Tsk, Li Qinyue felt a surge of self-disgust, then her throat tightened, she felt thirsty.

Zhuo Zhi returned quickly.

The TV was off, the lights were off, only a small night light illuminated the room. She knelt on the bed, holding a warm towel, and said, “Sister, let me clean you up.”

The little wolf cub had taken a shower, she was clean and fresh, smelling of shower gel.

Li Qinyue didn’t respond. Zhuo Zhi’s hand, now experienced, gently touched her.

Li Qinyue’s body warmed under her touch. She turned her head and bit her lip.

Zhuo Zhi’s movements were gentle, but her touch was deliberate, even the simple act of cleaning her up was enough to make Li Qinyue’s mind spin.

When Zhuo Zhi’s fingertip accidentally brushed against Li Qinyue’s most sensitive spot, Li Qinyue couldn’t hold back anymore. She swatted Zhuo Zhi’s arm, “Damn, stop.”

“Huh?” Zhuo Zhi looked at her.

“Do you want to do it again?” Li Qinyue glared at her, her voice slightly slurred.

Zhuo Zhi’s lips pursed, her expression unreadable.

Li Qinyue, throwing caution to the wind, said, “Then do it! Taste it! Come on!”

Zhuo Zhi threw the towel aside and pounced on Li Qinyue, covering her mouth.

“Sister, be quiet,” she whispered, her face so close to Li Qinyue’s that her vision blurred, “If you want it, I’ll give it to you.”

“I…” Li Qinyue started to speak, but Zhuo Zhi’s lips silenced her.

Soft lips and a warm tongue pushed back all of Li Qinyue’s words.

This time, Li Qinyue didn’t need any preparation, her body completely surrendering, a jolt of electricity running through her, her toes tingling.

Compared to her previous awkwardness, Zhuo Zhi was much more confident this time. She pulled away from Li Qinyue’s lips for a moment, “You’ve been cursing a lot today, Sister.”

“Damn…” What else could Li Qinyue say?

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi smiled, her lips curving upwards as she kissed Li Qinyue again. “I’m coming.”

Chapter 79

The door clicked shut behind her.

The Master went straight to the living room and sat down on the sofa. Li Qinyue slowly approached.

“Sit down,” the Master pointed at the sofa opposite her.

Li Qinyue didn’t sit. She said, “What is it, Master? Do I really have to be scared for you to tell me…?”

“Sit down,” the Master repeated.

“Tell me first.”

“Is this how you show your fear?” the Master looked at her, “If you don’t sit down, I’ll beat you until you do.”

Li Qinyue immediately plopped down on the sofa.

“Maybe you’ll listen to me if you’re afraid of me,” the Master said, “Take out your phone.”

Li Qinyue took out her phone.

“Send a message to your father.”

Li Qinyue was stunned, but she still opened her father’s chat window.

“Say…” the Master paused, “Happy New Year.”

Li Qinyue’s fingers hovered over the keyboard, waiting.

The Master looked at her, but didn’t say anything more.

“That’s it?” Li Qinyue frowned.

“Yes, that’s it,” the Master said, “Zhuo Zhi doesn’t have much family or many friends, so she can just focus on me during the New Year. You’re different, you have a big family. I understand you’re not going home this year because of the situation, but you’re not even sending a message?”

“There’s no need,” Li Qinyue said, resisting inwardly, quickly putting her phone away, “They’re busy celebrating, they won’t even see it.”

She stood up and pointed at the bathroom, “I’m going to the restroom, Master.”

The Master said, “Stop.”

Li Qinyue stopped, turning around with a smile, “Master, you can’t force this kind of thing…”

“Are you planning to never bring Zhuo Zhi home to meet your family?” the Master asked.

“Huh?” Li Qinyue was stunned. This topic was a bit too much.

The Master had just barely accepted their relationship, and now she was jumping straight to marriage?

Li Qinyue hadn’t thought that far ahead yet. After the last incident, she had decided that she wouldn’t bring Zhuo Zhi home again until she had resolved the conflict with her family.

And who knew how long that would take? Maybe a year, two years, three, four, five, six, seven, eight years…

Li Qinyue was lost in thought when the Master slapped the coffee table, “Is this what you call being serious?!”

The loud sound startled her. She quickly said, “No, no, you misunderstood, Master. The conflict with my family runs deep, I don’t want Zhuo Zhi to suffer because of it.”

“You have to face your problems!” the Master said, her voice sharp, “What good is avoiding them? Will they just disappear? Are you planning to work at a bar for the rest of your life, or let Zhuo Zhi support you as an auxiliary police officer?”

Li Qinyue paused, then, feeling a surge of annoyance, retorted, “I think this is fine.”

The Master stared at her, “You don’t want your luxurious life anymore? Your mansion, your sports car, your extravagant lifestyle?”

“I don’t want it anymore, I’m happier now,” Li Qinyue pouted.

“You…” the Master pointed at her, then after a long silence, seemed to sigh and said in a softer voice, “You’re just like your mother.”

Li Qinyue looked at her sharply, “You knew my mother?”

“I did,” the Master looked down and smiled faintly, “When your mother married your father, many people said she was after his money. Your father was quite proud, after his business failed, he took on all the debt himself and moved to this apartment. For months, your mother was the one supporting the family, but she was happy.”

Li Qinyue also smiled, “Yes, I remember she would always sing while doing laundry.”

The Master looked up at her, the corner of her lips twitching, “Your mother was capable of everything, you, heh.”

Li Qinyue sniffled, “Of course I can’t compare to her.”

The Master looked at her, silent.

Li Qinyue added, “Come to think of it, our roles are reversed. Zhuo Zhi is like my mother, and I’m like my father.”

“You hate your father so much, and you think you’re like him?”

“I am,” Li Qinyue shrugged, “Arrogant, stubborn, hot-tempered, won’t turn back until I hit a wall.”

“Your father built his later businesses from scratch.”

“I can too,” Li Qinyue looked at the Master, “I can start over after bankruptcy, but I have to be with Zhuo Zhi.”

The conversation had circled back to the same topic. The Master leaned back on the sofa, looking at her.

Li Qinyue said, “If you’re still in contact with my father, please talk to him for me. Our conflict isn’t something that can be resolved with a simple ‘Happy New Year’.”

“Stubborn,” the Master said.

“We both are,” Li Qinyue said with a smile, “We’re both stubborn.”

After finishing mediating the couple’s dispute, Zhuo Zhi went upstairs, feeling pleased with herself.

Li Qinyue opened the door for her. Zhuo Zhi practically jumped into her arms, “Sister, Sister, Master, Master, it’s different having authority, isn’t it?”

Li Qinyue patted her head, “How is it different?”

“Let me tell you…” Zhuo Zhi kicked off her shoes, put on her slippers, pulled Li Qinyue to the sofa beside the Master, and reenacted the scene with exaggerated gestures, “When I knocked on the door, that man looked so annoyed. He looked behind me, probably expecting to see you, Sister Qinyue. When he saw it was just me, he was so rude.”

“Heh!” Zhuo Zhi’s pout intensified, “He even yelled at me! So I showed him my ID, ‘Zhuo Zhi, officer from the White Birch Lane Police Station, we received a noise complaint!’”

“He said, ‘You said it was the Women’s Federation last time, and now it’s the police, who are you trying to fool?!’”

“I said, ‘Why don’t you call 110 and ask?’ He was dumbfounded, hahahahaha, he opened the door so quickly!”

Zhuo Zhi rambled on excitedly for a while.

Li Qinyue poured her a glass of water, telling her to soothe her throat, worried that she would lose her voice from all the excitement.

The Master looked at Zhuo Zhi without saying anything, but her expression was relaxed.

They chatted about it for a while. It was past eleven o’clock, the Spring Festival Gala was nearing its end, and the Master was getting sleepy.

She stood up and said, “I’m going to bed, you two can stay up if you want.”

Li Qinyue’s heart skipped a beat, a shiver running down her spine.

Zhuo Zhi, however, was still oblivious. She grabbed the Master’s arm, “Wait a little longer, there might be fireworks later.”

“It’s not like I’ve never seen fireworks before,” the Master yawned, “I’m so sleepy.”

Li Qinyue pulled Zhuo Zhi’s arm, “Let Master go to bed, she’s not used to staying up late.”

“Oh, okay, then sleep in tomorrow, Master, I’ll make breakfast,” Zhuo Zhi said.

“Hmm,” the Master responded, then stopped at the door of the master bedroom.

“Come here,” she beckoned to Zhuo Zhi.

Zhuo Zhi ran over, and the Master took out a red envelope from her pocket and placed it in her hand.

“Wow! Thank you, Master! Happy New Year!”

The Master ruffled her hair, then glanced at Li Qinyue.

Li Qinyue stood there, not moving. The Master frowned.

Zhuo Zhi called out to her, “Come here, Sister!”

Li Qinyue, as if just realizing, pointed at herself and hurried over, asking with a smile, “Do I get one too? I’m almost thirty, do I still get a red envelope?”

The Master glanced at her, rummaged in her pocket, and took out another red envelope.

Li Qinyue took the red envelope, speechless for a moment, then finally mumbled, “Happy New Year, Master.”

The Master turned and went into her room.

Li Qinyue stood there for a while, clutching the red envelope, lost in thought.

Zhuo Zhi dragged her towards the living room, “Come on, Sister, snap out of it.”

Li Qinyue lowered her voice and asked, “What do you think this means?”

“What do you mean?” Zhuo Zhi looked at her.

Li Qinyue held up the red envelope, “She even prepared a red envelope for me, does this mean she accepts me as her daughter? No, her disciple? No, her disciple’s wife?”

Zhuo Zhi chuckled, “You’re my wife, Sister?”

“What else would I be?” Li Qinyue laughed, “Am I your husband?”

“Being the wife is better,” Zhuo Zhi looked at the TV, “What should we do? It’s still half an hour until midnight.”

Li Qinyue looked at Zhuo Zhi, her face illuminated by the flickering TV screen, “Master has acknowledged me, what do you think we should do?”

Zhuo Zhi glanced at the master bedroom. The door was closed. She leaned in and kissed Li Qinyue’s chin.

“That’s not enough,” Li Qinyue pulled her towards the bedroom, “You don’t know how cold it is sleeping alone at night.”

“I turned on the heating and the electric blanket, it’s warm,” Zhuo Zhi protested.

Li Qinyue pulled her into the bedroom, closed the door, and pointed at her chest, “My heart is cold.”

“Then I’ll warm it up for you,” Zhuo Zhi said, grabbing Li Qinyue’s breast playfully.

“Damn,” Li Qinyue cursed softly.

Zhuo Zhi leaned closer to her lips and whispered, “The TV is still on, Sister.”

“That’s good,” Li Qinyue’s lips brushed against Zhuo Zhi’s, “It’ll cover up the noise.”

“What noise?” Zhuo Zhi put her arms around Li Qinyue’s neck, “It’s just a few kisses.”

“I’m a little excited,” Li Qinyue said, “A few kisses won’t be enough.”

“Then we’ll kiss more.”

“Hmm…” Li Qinyue, holding Zhuo Zhi, turned and threw her onto the bed.

The bed creaked loudly, and Zhuo Zhi froze, not daring to move.

Li Qinyue shook the bed frame a couple of times. When there were no more creaking sounds, she said with a smile, “It’s fine, I just used too much force.”

“Don’t…” Zhuo Zhi scooted back, “Don’t smile like that, Sister.”

“What’s wrong?” Li Qinyue leaned closer and kissed her nose, “Can’t I even smile now?”

“You look like a domineering CEO when you smile like that,” Zhuo Zhi chuckled, wrapping her arms around Li Qinyue’s waist, “It gives me goosebumps.”

“Am I that scary?” Li Qinyue frowned.

“No,” Zhuo Zhi kissed her, “Exhilarating.”

The word perfectly described the feeling. They had eaten a lot of sweets tonight, and the kisses were sweet and soft, intoxicating.

Li Qinyue kissed Zhuo Zhi, her hands restlessly exploring her waist.

Zhuo Zhi, ticklish, giggled and tried to dodge, but ended up snuggling closer to Li Qinyue.

The clothes were in the way. Li Qinyue sat up and started taking them off, “When the clock strikes midnight, you’ll officially be eighteen, right?”

Zhuo Zhi stared at her, her eyes following Li Qinyue’s hands as she undressed, “I’ve been officially eighteen for a while now.”

“Even by traditional counting, you’re of age now,” Li Qinyue raised an eyebrow, only her underwear left. “You’re an adult now, little girl.”

“Yes,” the little girl smiled.

“Here’s your coming-of-age present,” Li Qinyue took Zhuo Zhi’s hand and placed it on her back. “Tell me how it feels.”

Chapter 78

After that little interlude, the New Year’s Eve dinner was a bit awkward.

Li Qinyue kept trying to explain, and Zhuo Zhi tried to help, but it only made the Master think they were ganging up on her, so she ignored them both.

Li Qinyue would take two bites of food, glance at the Master, take two sips of soup, and glance at her again.

The Master would glare at her, and Li Qinyue would immediately say, “The food is delicious, Master.”

The Master pointed her chopsticks at her, “Last meal, don’t even think about it after this.”

Li Qinyue could only shut up for the time being.

The Spring Festival Gala blared noisily on the TV. White Birch Lane was in a less restricted area, so fireworks were allowed, and the sound of firecrackers outside the window was constant.

Li Qinyue had bought some small fireworks, mainly because Zhuo Zhi was excited about them, so she followed suit, wanting to have some fun.

After dinner, Li Qinyue urged Zhuo Zhi to bring out the fireworks. They put on their coats and stood in the living room. Li Qinyue asked without much hope, “Master, should we go downstairs and set off some fireworks?”

The Master, who was watching TV, glanced at them, “What did you buy? Aren’t you a little too old for fireworks?”

Zhuo Zhi immediately said, “Small butterflies, spinning tops, firecrackers, sparklers, small smoke bombs, and a new kind, shaped like a windmill, you have to tie it to a pole, I don’t know what it’s like yet.”

“It’s dry and windy, it’s dangerous,” the Master frowned.

“We can go to the plaza, it’s open there,” Li Qinyue said.

The Master stood up, putting on her coat, “Zhuo Zhi, didn’t your station post any rules about setting off fireworks?”

“They didn’t say anything, it’s allowed in this area, small fireworks are fine,” Zhuo Zhi tugged at Li Qinyue’s sleeve, “But we’re not very experienced, it’s a bit dangerous. It’ll be safer with you, Master.”

Li Qinyue’s eyes lit up, “Exactly!”

The Master walked past them, opened the door, and without looking back, said, “Hurry up, it’s cold.”

Li Qinyue held back her laughter until the Master was further away, then she pulled Zhuo Zhi out of the apartment.

Before speaking, she chuckled, “Master likes fireworks?”

Zhuo Zhi also laughed, “Master likes these little things, she’s not angry anymore.”

Li Qinyue was puzzled, “I sincerely wanted Master to stay, why doesn’t she believe me?”

Zhuo Zhi walked slowly down the stairs with her, “I don’t think it’s that she doesn’t believe you, she probably planned to leave after the New Year anyway, just looking for an excuse.”

“Then she should have just said so, she’s making me feel guilty.”

Zhuo Zhi glanced at her, her smile wide, “That’s the point, she wants you to feel guilty, she’s not happy.”

“Didn’t you say she’s not angry anymore?”

“I said she’s not happy about this trip down the mountain,” Zhuo Zhi took a deep breath, “Think about it, Sister.”

Li Qinyue frowned, “You’re right.”

“I know my Master best, I’m probably right about this.”

“Master is like a child,” Li Qinyue said.

“Isn’t she cute?” Zhuo Zhi said smugly.

“She is cute,” Li Qinyue pinched Zhuo Zhi’s cheek, her answer sincere.

“Are you two snails?!” A shout came from downstairs, making Li Qinyue jump.

She was usually quite bold, but after days of being cautious around the Master, any slight raise in her voice would startle her.

“We’re coming!!!” Li Qinyue shouted back, quickening her pace and hopping down the stairs.

The Master was waiting downstairs. Seeing them, she flicked her coat and walked ahead.

Li Qinyue and Zhuo Zhi jogged after her, whispering, “Master looks so good in that coat, so imposing.”

“She has three identical military coats,” Zhuo Zhi said, “She says they’re warm.”

“I’ve never worn one before,” Li Qinyue said.

“Do you want to try?” Zhuo Zhi looked at her, “I can get you one.”

“Sure,” Li Qinyue seemed interested.

Then she realized what she had just said and tugged at Zhuo Zhi’s sleeve, “That’s not what I meant, I mean, Master has been here for so long, you haven’t taken her shopping for clothes, shoes, makeup, or anything.”

Zhuo Zhi’s eyes widened, “I haven’t thought about that.”

“Used to being a child, aren’t you?” Li Qinyue pinched her nose, “Although people don’t usually buy new clothes specifically for the New Year anymore, Master is spending the New Year down the mountain this year. If we can’t convince her to stay, we’ll take her shopping tomorrow.”

“Okay!” Zhuo Zhi clapped her hands, “I’ll listen to you, Sister, you have great taste.”

“Of course,” Li Qinyue looked at the Master’s back, “I’ll make Master look stylish and beautiful, while preserving her unique charm.”

Zhuo Zhi chuckled, “Does Master have charm?”

“Yes,” Li Qinyue looked at her, thinking she was a fool, “Master’s personality is very charming, don’t you think?”

The Master, who was a few steps ahead, suddenly turned around, “Are there ants on the ground?!”

Li Qinyue jumped, “No, Master! It’s winter! Ants don’t come out in winter!”

“Then are you afraid of stepping on bacteria?!” The Master’s breath formed a cloud of white mist in the cold air.

Li Qinyue laughed and hurried to catch up to the Master, walking beside her, “Did you hear what we were just saying, Master?”

“It’s so noisy! Do I have the energy to listen to your chatter?!” The Master pointed at the sky, as if to emphasize her point. The sound of firecrackers echoed in the distance.

“Okay, okay,” Li Qinyue, now completely subservient, said, “We’ll be noisy later.”

Zhuo Zhi ran to the Master’s other side and linked arms with her, “Yes, let’s try that windmill firework first, I wonder if it’ll spin.”

Most families were having their New Year’s Eve dinner and watching the Spring Festival Gala, so there weren’t many people setting off fireworks outside.

Their unusual little family didn’t have many rules or traditions, they did as they pleased. If they were having fun, they would play for a while longer.

There weren’t many people in the plaza. After lighting two firecrackers, Zhuo Zhi’s laughter echoed through the air, even the smallest sparks of light making her jump and shout with joy.

Li Qinyue focused on teasing her, “It’s just a dud, and you’re laughing for two minutes straight?”

The Master, probably annoyed by their noise, occasionally covered her ears, but then, using the excuse of protecting them from danger, she would try out a couple of new fireworks herself.

The windmill firework did spin, the small firecrackers working together to create a spinning wheel of fire.

Zhuo Zhi’s eyes sparkled. Li Qinyue, finding her incredibly beautiful, took out her phone to film her.

The light was dim, but Zhuo Zhi’s silhouette was warm and lovely. Li Qinyue was filming a video, but Zhuo Zhi thought it was a picture and held her smile for a few seconds.

Li Qinyue didn’t tell her. After filming Zhuo Zhi, she turned the camera to the Master and shouted, “Master! Do you have any New Year’s wishes?”

The Master said, “I did, but not anymore.”

It was a meaningful statement, and judging from the way she was glaring at Li Qinyue, it was probably because Li Qinyue had “stolen” her disciple.

But Li Qinyue chose to interpret it differently, “Me too! If you’re truly happy, you can’t think of any wishes. But if I had to say one, I hope we’ll celebrate the New Year together again next year! And the year after that! Every year!”

“Yes!” Zhuo Zhi echoed, “Every year!”

The Master looked at Li Qinyue, her lips moving, but she didn’t say anything.

After setting off all the fireworks, as they walked back, it started to snow.

The snowflakes were tiny, like grains of sand, falling steadily, quickly covering the ground with a thin layer of white.

Li Qinyue reached out to catch some, but the snowflakes were too small. She looked up at the sky, then down at her phone, and said to the Master, “It’s snowing, Master.”

“Hmm,” the Master responded.

“It’s going to snow for a while,” Li Qinyue said.

“It feels very festive,” Zhuo Zhi said, skipping beside her.

Li Qinyue chuckled and also skipped in front of the Master, “But the roads will be slippery!”

The Master raised her hand, as if to hit Li Qinyue.

Li Qinyue, anticipating it, had already dodged, laughing and moving closer to Zhuo Zhi.

Everything was harmonious and beautiful, so the sound of arguing coming from downstairs was jarring.

“Here we go again,” Li Qinyue sighed, “Master, why can’t all families be as loving and harmonious as ours?”

The Master: “Heh.”

Zhuo Zhi suddenly tugged at her clothes, “Sister, I think we need to resolve this.”

“Resolve what?” Li Qinyue looked at her.

Zhuo Zhi pointed at the window on the first floor, “They were arguing on the day we moved in, it’s been quieter lately, but it hasn’t stopped. I was wondering, why don’t they call the police?”

Li Qinyue chuckled, “The police aren’t marriage counselors.”

“It’s almost the same,” Zhuo Zhi said seriously, “We’ve encountered similar cases, Officer Sun showed me a very effective method.”

“Are you planning to intervene?” Li Qinyue was a little surprised.

“Yes,” Zhuo Zhi tugged at her clothes again.

“You’re not wearing your uniform,” Li Qinyue patted her back, “Why don’t you go change first?”

“It’s fine, I have my ID,” Zhuo Zhi patted her pocket.

“Heh, on New Year’s Eve, such dedication,” Li Qinyue said, impressed.

“We want them to have a happy new year too,” Zhuo Zhi paused, then added, “We should help whenever we can.”

Her words touched Li Qinyue’s heart. Her smile faded, and she looked at the Master, her hand still on Zhuo Zhi’s back, “This is why I like Zhuo Zhi, Master. When I first met her, I was so surprised that someone like her actually existed.”

Li Qinyue paused, then smiled, “She’s like a crystal, so pure.”

Praising the child was praising the parent. The Master didn’t speak, but her eyes darkened.

Zhuo Zhi straightened her back and said to the Master, “I’m going now.”

She walked towards the apartment on the first floor and knocked on the door. Li Qinyue instinctively followed her, but the Master grabbed her hood and pulled her back.

“Where are you going?” the Master asked, looking at her.

“To help out a little,” Li Qinyue said.

The Master glanced at her hands, “You’re not carrying a cleaver today, how are you going to help?”

Li Qinyue’s eyes widened, had that been exposed too?

She was about to glare at Zhuo Zhi when the Master pulled her upstairs, “Stay out of police business. Come on, I have something to talk to you about.”

Li Qinyue’s heart skipped a beat, “Something?”

“Yes,” the Master said curtly.

The Master had never asked to talk to Li Qinyue about anything before. Although they had spent a lot of time together, it was mostly Li Qinyue trying to make conversation.

Now, suddenly saying she had something to discuss, and choosing to do so when Zhuo Zhi wasn’t around, made Li Qinyue truly nervous, so nervous she didn’t even know which foot to put forward first as they climbed the stairs.

They reached the apartment door, and the Master took out her keys. Li Qinyue’s hair stood on end.

“What… what is it?” Li Qinyue asked cautiously, her voice barely above a whisper.

The Master looked back at her, “Have you ever been this afraid of anyone before?”

Li Qinyue shuddered, “No.”

The Master suddenly smiled, her smile not kind, but rather, unsettlingly mischievous, “That’s good.”

Chapter 77

On New Year’s Eve, Zhuo Zhi was still on duty.

But because she was young, she had the morning shift, much luckier than her colleagues on the night shift.

Over the past few days, the Master had been preparing the ingredients for the New Year’s feast with Li Qinyue, who had graduated from being banned from the kitchen to being allowed to peel potatoes and wash vegetables.

Zhuo Zhi was out on patrol this morning. Li Qinyue wanted to follow her, keeping a safe distance of ten meters, but the Master’s watchful eye prevented her from doing so. Any movement from Li Qinyue would earn her a glare, so she had to give up.

The hours dragged on. Li Qinyue felt like she was going to wear a hole in the floor from pacing around the small apartment.

When the clock in the living room finally reached the designated time, Li Qinyue practically jumped up and rushed out, “Master, I’m going to pick up Zhuo Zhi!”

“Is it time already?” the Master’s voice came from the kitchen, not loud but clear.

“Yes, yes, look! It’s already been a minute!” Li Qinyue had already put on her shoes and opened the door.

But just as she was about to rush out, she heard footsteps approaching, quick and steady, large strides, she recognized Zhuo Zhi’s gait.

Li Qinyue was surprised. She stopped and took a step back.

The footsteps drew closer, then stopped abruptly as a figure appeared.

Li Qinyue spread her arms wide and shouted, “Woohoo!!!”

Zhuo Zhi flinched slightly, her reflexes fast. Without even pausing, she burst into laughter.

Li Qinyue let out two more “Woohoos!” Zhuo Zhi was laughing hysterically.

Li Qinyue said in a deep voice, “Where did this little girl come from, all she does is laugh, aren’t you afraid of being eaten by this tiger?”

Zhuo Zhi said between bursts of laughter, “Your mouth isn’t big enough to eat me, Sister.”

“Then I’ll tear you apart,” Li Qinyue said, her voice back to normal. She poked Zhuo Zhi’s shoulder repeatedly, “This piece, braised today, this piece, steamed tomorrow, and this heart… sliced and grilled!”

“Are you hungry, Sister?” Zhuo Zhi grabbed her finger and held it, “Didn’t Master feed you enough?”

Li Qinyue leaned closer and whispered, “I’m your girl, you’re the one who should be feeding me.”

Zhuo Zhi blushed, a mischievous glint in her eyes, “Okay then.”

“Okay then,” Li Qinyue brushed a few strands of hair away from Zhuo Zhi’s forehead, “Okay then my ass.”

“No swearing,” Zhuo Zhi stood on tiptoe and gave her a quick kiss.

“Tsk,” Li Qinyue said, “You’re getting bolder and bolder, Comrade Xiao Zhuo.”

“Let’s go home,” Zhuo Zhi took her hand, led her to the door, and opened it.

“Master,” Zhuo Zhi shouted as soon as she entered, “Captain Li said I’m dedicated and a good worker, so he let me off ten minutes early!”

The Master said, “If you’re such a good worker, why didn’t he give you a year-end bonus?”

“I’ve only been working for a few days, hahaha,” Zhuo Zhi said cheerfully, her hand still holding Li Qinyue’s as she went to the kitchen. “What are you making? Do you need my help?”

The Master glanced at them with disdain, “No.”

Zhuo Zhi pouted and pulled Li Qinyue away, “Then we’ll just wait for dinner.”

The New Year hadn’t even started, and they were already having feasts every day.

Lunch lasted a long time. After they were full, the three of them had nothing to do, so they sat in the living room and watched TV.

It was the Spring Festival Gala preview show. Zhuo Zhi tried to convince the Master to play games with them. The Master finally agreed after much persuasion. Zhuo Zhi took the Master’s phone to download the game, then realized that it was already installed, tucked away in a folder named “For Leisure”.

“Hey!” Zhuo Zhi exclaimed, moving closer to the Master, “You have it! Have you played before? Do you have an account? What rank are you?”

“I have an account,” the Master took back her phone, “It’s linked to my WeChat.”

“Impressive,” Zhuo Zhi gave her a thumbs-up, then said to Li Qinyue, “Master is amazing, right? Have you ever met anyone her age who plays this game?”

“No, you’re the first, Master,” Li Qinyue immediately flattered her, “Other people, they get old in their hearts as they age, but Master, you look so young! If we walked together, people would think we’re…”

“Shut up,” the Master said.

Li Qinyue shut up.

“Log in,” the Master leaned back on the sofa, looking relaxed, “Just match with random people, you can talk, no need to use the microphone.”

Li Qinyue’s eyes widened.

Zhuo Zhi nudged her arm, “Show Master your skills, Sister.”

“No problem, no problem,” Li Qinyue quickly focused on her phone, “I’ll be at the front, protecting everyone.”

They matched with a newbie. After landing, the newbie kept circling the houses, clearly inexperienced.

Li Qinyue was the fastest, sprinting from house to house, quickly gathering supplies and looting two airdrops.

She ran to the Master and said, “Master, this gun is good, take it, and these two first-aid kits.”

She dropped the items, but the Master didn’t even bother picking them up. She just turned and ran away, “No need, I have my own.”

Zhuo Zhi, amused by the failed attempt to please the Master, said, “Sister, do you have any scopes? Give me one.”

“Yes, but I’m not giving it to you,” Li Qinyue said coldly, “It would be a waste on you.”

Zhuo Zhi protested, “Favoritism!”

“You’re on your own, I have to protect Master, I’m not reviving you if you get knocked down,” Li Qinyue followed the Master closely, acting very attentive.

Zhuo Zhi: “The newbie doesn’t even have a gun yet, you’re protecting Master, I’ll go protect him then.”

Li Qinyue ran over and hit Zhuo Zhi’s head with a frying pan.

The start of the game was smooth. Li Qinyue was proactive, eliminating any enemy she saw.

Although the newbie wasn’t very skilled, he was obedient and followed Zhuo Zhi closely, doing everything she told him to.

The safe zone shifted, and they had to cross a bridge. As they drove, they saw an airdrop landing near the bridge.

This was perfect, all the danger concentrated in one spot.

Li Qinyue stopped the car on a hill and said to the Master and Zhuo Zhi, “Stay down, I’ll…”

Before she could finish her sentence, the Master had already rushed out, running straight towards the airdrop. Gunfire erupted.

Li Qinyue aimed and fired, but the enemies were dropping one by one, the kill feed constantly updating.

“Damn!” Li Qinyue couldn’t help but exclaim, “Are you hacking, Master?!”

A knitted cat doll flew through the air, hitting Li Qinyue’s head.

The Master looked at her, her expression indifferent, “Zhuo Zhi has never cheated on a test in her life.”

Li Qinyue, ignoring the comment, said, “Master, stop looking at me, look at the enemies!”

The Master: “There are two more to the southeast, they’re yours.”

For the rest of the game, no matter how dangerous the situation, Zhuo Zhi didn’t have to worry.

She just had to tell the newbie to stay down, and the Master would take care of everything.

Zhuo Zhi rarely played this game, she was just a beginner. With Li Qinyue and the Master, all she had to do was lie down and win.

By the time it was dusk, Zhuo Zhi was tired of winning.

The Master tossed her phone aside, glanced at the darkening sky, and said, “I’m done.”

Li Qinyue immediately exited the game. She couldn’t help but go to the sofa where the Master was sitting and started showering her with compliments, “I never thought, I would never have thought, that you’re so multi-talented, Master. You know my father, right? He’s about your age, you wouldn’t believe it, he doesn’t even know how to use a food delivery app…”

“Does he even order takeout?” the Master asked.

“No,” Li Qinyue said honestly.

The Master said, “Then stop flattering me.”

Li Qinyue readily agreed, “Okay.”

The Master pointed at the kitchen, “There’s still a bowl of celery and pork filling left, my hands are tired, Zhuo Zhi can do it.”

Making dumplings together on New Year’s Eve was a family tradition. The Master had probably intended for the three of them to do it together, but with their unusual family dynamic, it had become Zhuo Zhi’s solo task.

“Okay!” Zhuo Zhi obediently went to the kitchen.

“Then I’ll…” Li Qinyue gestured.

“You sit down, don’t waste the ingredients,” the Master said.

“Oh,” Li Qinyue looked pitiful.

They watched TV, even paying attention to the commercials.

Li Qinyue, trying to make conversation, asked, “When did you start playing that game, Master? You’re so good at it.”

“When Zhuo Zhi came down the mountain,” the Master said.

“Huh?” Li Qinyue was confused.

“When Zhuo Zhi came down the mountain,” the Master looked at her and repeated.

Li Qinyue was speechless. When Zhuo Zhi first came down, she was using a brick phone and didn’t even know how to use mobile payments.

Her upbringing hadn’t exposed her to these things. She had found joy in nature and human interactions.

Li Qinyue hadn’t thought much about it before, but now, realizing this, she felt a surge of respect for the Master.

Even living on the mountain, the Master hadn’t neglected Zhuo Zhi’s education. Zhuo Zhi had excelled in her studies.

And the Master had even set an example, exploring new things with her, nurturing her enthusiasm for the world.

But she had shielded her from all forms of modern distractions and addictions. There were no frivolous worries or rebellious phases in Zhuo Zhi’s life. Her world was like a fairy tale.

If all of this was intentional, the Master’s efforts were truly remarkable.

And this parent had only started learning and adapting to the modern world when her child entered it.

Her complete integration with this world was solely for Zhuo Zhi’s sake.

For a long time, Li Qinyue couldn’t speak. She stared at the Master, lost in thought, then suddenly realized that the Master had started playing the game because of Zhuo Zhi, and she had become so good at it probably because she was lonely.

How sad it must have been for her, living on the mountain alone, without Zhuo Zhi.

Li Qinyue’s nose tingled, her heart aching with empathy.

She was the one who had taken Zhuo Zhi away from the Master. The Master’s hostility towards her was justified.

The Master had raised such a wonderful girl. No matter how kind she, Li Qinyue, was to the Master, it wouldn’t be enough.

The Master’s gaze remained fixed on the TV. Li Qinyue’s fingers twitched, she finally mustered up her courage and tugged at the Master’s sleeve.

The Master turned to look at her. Li Qinyue took her hand, her voice sincere, “Master, please stay after the New Year.”

The Master’s brows furrowed, her indifferent facade crumbling, replaced by shock, “Stay, or not stay?”

“Stay!” Li Qinyue shook her head vigorously, “How can I bear to let you leave? How can I let you go? Master, let’s live together from now on, let Zhuo Zhi and I take care of you!”

After a long silence, the Master said, “Have you been drinking?”

“No, I’m being sincere…”

“Then are you being sarcastic, hinting that I should leave?”

“Of course not, I really think…”

“Then there’s only one possibility…” the Master looked at her, then suddenly yelled, “You want a free nanny?! In your dreams! Get lost!”

She pulled her hand away forcefully, making Li Qinyue lose her balance and fall onto the sofa.

The Master’s movements were swift and graceful. One moment she was in front of Li Qinyue, the next she was in the furthest corner of the living room.

There was a small stool in the corner, and the Master sat down on it, her posture imposing, her expression furious.

Zhuo Zhi rushed out of the kitchen, “What’s wrong, what’s wrong? We were just fine, why are you arguing?”

Just as Li Qinyue was about to explain, the Master turned to Zhuo Zhi, her voice cold and hard, “Pack my bags after making the dumplings, I’m leaving tomorrow.”

Chapter 76

When Li Qinyue returned home, the Master was practicing Tai Chi in the middle of the living room.

Her movements were slow and graceful, accompanied by calming music playing on her phone.

Li Qinyue entered, but the Master didn’t even glance at her. Li Qinyue put down her bag and coat, changed her shoes, but the Master was still completely focused on her practice.

Li Qinyue was amazed by her concentration.

She went to wash her face with warm water, the chill from the morning quickly dissipating.

Then, holding a cup of hot water, she stood and watched the Master practice.

The Master finally finished a set and stopped.

She turned to Li Qinyue, who immediately said with a smile, “Practicing Tai Chi, Master?”

The Master thought it was a pointless remark and didn’t respond.

Li Qinyue tried again, “What did you have for lunch, Master?”

The Master said slowly, “Grilled fish.”

Li Qinyue froze, her face flushing. She felt like she had been caught cheating.

Having just been exposed by Zhuo Zhi, and now exposed by the Master again, Li Qinyue felt her cheeks burning. She must have used up her lifetime quota of blushes.

As she stood there awkwardly, the Master changed the music on her phone, then stood on the left side of the living room and said, “Come here.”

“Okay,” Li Qinyue hurried over, holding her cup, “Are you thirsty, Master?”

The Master: “Tai Chi.”

“Huh?” Li Qinyue was surprised, pointing at herself, “Me?”

“Is there anyone else here?” the Master retorted.

Li Qinyue quickly put down her cup, “Okay! I didn’t expect to be able to learn from a master like you!”

She stood on the Master’s right side, carefully observing her movements, “I’ve never done this before…”

“Quiet,” the Master said.

Li Qinyue closed her mouth.

The starting posture was familiar, the music was familiar. Although the Master’s movements were smooth and graceful, it was undeniably the same Chen-style Tai Chi that Li Qinyue had learned in high school and college.

Was a master actually practicing something so… basic?

Li Qinyue followed the Master’s movements, feeling a little surprised. She wasn’t familiar with other martial arts styles, but she could still mimic this one.

One big watermelon, cut it in half, one half for you, one half for me…

After slowly completing a set with the Master, she was slightly sweaty.

After finishing, the Master picked up her book and stood by the window, continuing to read.

Li Qinyue, seeing that there were no further instructions, went to take a shower. When she came out, the Master was already in the kitchen.

She noticed that both the Master and Zhuo Zhi enjoyed cooking, not as a chore, but as a hobby.

Knowing that she would only be in the way in the kitchen, Li Qinyue went to her small guest bedroom.

She was bored. She didn’t want to watch TV, there wasn’t even a computer.

She picked up her phone, about to play a game, but then saw Zhuo Zhi’s pinned chat and changed her mind.

Zhuo Zhi was working hard, running around in the cold. With her, Li Qinyue’s, temper, she would probably have gotten into a fight after just a few words.

Zhuo Zhi had said she would work hard to support her. Li Qinyue clicked her tongue, thinking that the little girl was truly ambitious, then felt a wave of warmth.

The little girl was working so hard, shouldn’t she, Li Qinyue, also make an effort?

So, she messaged Aijia: Send me a couple of books on bar management.

Aijia replied: Sister, let’s talk this over, okay? You have so many companies, any one of them is better than my little bar. This is my only source of income.

Li Qinyue: I think you’re getting a little too comfortable after having me as your employee for two days.

Aijia: Are you still my employee then?

Li Qinyue: I am.

Aijia: I have two books on bartending, I’ll send them to you.

Li Qinyue: …

After a while, the aroma of food wafted from the kitchen.

Li Qinyue wasn’t a foodie, but she found the food cooked by the Master and Zhuo Zhi very tempting.

And expressing your desire for food was a basic courtesy towards the cook.

Following the scent, she entered the kitchen, where the Master had just placed a plate of pastries on the counter.

“What’s that? It smells so good,” Li Qinyue said, sniffing the air.

“See for yourself,” the Master said without looking up.

“Okay,” Li Qinyue quickly entered the kitchen, “You usually don’t let me in here.”

The Master glanced at her sideways, her expression neutral, but her eyes seemed to be reproaching Li Qinyue for her theatrics.

Li Qinyue chuckled, “Pumpkin cakes?”

“Yes,” the Master picked up a freshly baked cake and held it out to her.

“Oh, oh, oh,” Li Qinyue said, feeling honored, “I haven’t washed my hands yet, I’ll wash them, wait a minute.”

She hurried to the sink, washed her hands, and rushed back.

“Ouch, hot, hot, hot…” Li Qinyue juggled the small, golden cake in her hand.

She was about to put it in her mouth when the Master’s chopsticks landed on her wrist.

Li Qinyue stopped.

The Master stared at her.

“Can’t… I eat it?” Li Qinyue had never been so timid, so cautious about eating a cake.

“Eating food that’s too hot can cause esophageal cancer,” the Master said bluntly.

“Oh, okay, okay,” Li Qinyue’s voice was full of concern, “I’ll let it cool down, cool down.”

The Master turned away and continued her work.

Li Qinyue tried to make conversation again, “Master, I’m not usually a foodie, but your cooking is so good, the smell is making me crave it. And you just gave this to me, I have to eat it no matter how hot it is, I’d even walk through fire for you…”

“Do you know why I gave you the hot cake?” the Master interrupted her flattery.

“Huh?” Li Qinyue was stunned, was there a reason for that?

“To warn you,” the Master cleared her throat, “Don’t eat something you’re not supposed to, it’ll burn your mouth.”

Li Qinyue was speechless.

The Master pushed the plate of cakes towards her, “Go eat outside.”

Li Qinyue took the plate to the dining table and continued to be speechless.

After a while, she couldn’t help but message Zhuo Zhi:

• What did you tell Master?!

Zhuo Zhi’s first day at the police station was quite eventful. She witnessed several types of cases and learned a few interrogation techniques.

And her dear girlfriend had secretly accompanied her all morning. They had a pleasant lunch together, and her girlfriend had even come to pick her up from the police station.

Officer Sun had told her about it.

Zhuo Zhi felt a little embarrassed that Officer Sun kept seeing Li Qinyue, but she also knew that, with Li Qinyue’s clinginess, this would be a common occurrence in the future.

So she took her partner to a corner of the office and said sweetly, “Brother Sun, how was my performance today? Did I hold you back?”

“No, definitely not,” Officer Sun said earnestly, “It’s great having you here, we’ve been much more efficient, and also…”

He paused.

Zhuo Zhi quickly said, “Go ahead, it’s fine, we’ll be working together from now on, I’m open-minded, just say what’s on your mind.”

Officer Sun scratched his head and said, “Before you came, we were short-staffed, I didn’t even have a partner, I was always following Brother Zhao around. Now it feels good to have a partner.”

“Hahaha…” Zhuo Zhi laughed, surprised by his words.

He was an official police officer, her senior, and Zhuo Zhi respected him. But it seemed like her senior was also a newbie eager to grow and improve. Zhuo Zhi felt a sense of responsibility and patted Officer Sun’s shoulder. “Brother, just leave the dangerous tasks to me. You saw that video, right? I’m just a reckless fighter. I’ll have to learn everything else from you.”

Officer Sun smiled, “Yes, I saw it, you’re amazing, I feel safe with you around.”

“Heh,” Zhuo Zhi, after establishing a good rapport with her colleague, steered the conversation back on track, “There’s something I want to talk to you about.”

“Go ahead, no need to be so formal, we’re all friends here.”

“It’s about my… sister,” Zhuo Zhi looked around, blushing slightly, “She might come to visit me often. If you happen to see her…”

“Don’t worry!” Officer Sun raised his hand to interrupt her, “I won’t tell anyone!”

“Ah…” That wasn’t what Zhuo Zhi meant.

“I’ll keep it a secret!” Officer Sun said seriously, “I believe everyone’s private life should be respected, as long as they’re not breaking the law.”

“Ah…” Zhuo Zhi agreed with that.

Officer Sun leaned closer to her and whispered, “I know it’s not easy for you two, I support you.”

He even raised his fist in solidarity.

“Ah…” Zhuo Zhi couldn’t think of anything else to say.

She had achieved her goal, and even exceeded it.

She hadn’t expected Officer Sun to be so accepting, so understanding, so… perceptive?

After he finished speaking, Officer Sun straightened up, frowned seriously, and said, “That’s all for today’s work, well done. See you tomorrow.”

They actually still had a statement to finish, but he was letting her off early.

Zhuo Zhi’s heart was filled with gratitude.

Police officers were so nice!

Officer Sun winked at her, pointing at the door.

He was like a messenger, building a bridge for her reunion with Sister Qinyue!

“See you tomorrow!” Zhuo Zhi bowed to him, grabbed her bag, and hurried out.

Li Qinyue was waiting under a tree some distance away. When Zhuo Zhi ran out, she headed straight for her, like a puppy greeting its owner, her face beaming.

Li Qinyue opened her arms, and Zhuo Zhi threw herself into her embrace, like a cannonball. But the cannonball was wrapped in thick layers of clothing, the impact soft and gentle.

Zhuo Zhi looked up at her, her face glowing.

Li Qinyue pinched her cheek.

“Didn’t you say you weren’t coming?” Zhuo Zhi’s smile was so wide it almost reached her ears.

“If it weren’t for your doing, would I have come all the way here?!” Li Qinyue tried to look serious, her brows furrowed.

“Ah…” Zhuo Zhi remembered and said, “I really didn’t say much.”

“You didn’t say much, but Master knew that we had grilled fish for lunch,” Li Qinyue said.

“What we ate, does that even matter? If she asked, then I told her,” Zhuo Zhi said.

“Then what else matters?” Li Qinyue rephrased her question, “What do you think is important, something you can’t tell Master?”

Zhuo Zhi thought for a moment, then said, “Nothing.”

Li Qinyue gave her a knowing smile.

Zhuo Zhi took her hand and led her back, “Master is easy to talk to. And her personality is such that if you tell her the truth, it’s fine. But if you lie to her or hide something from her, the punishment will be doubled.”

“Master is so domineering,” Li Qinyue said.

“That’s because she cares about me,” Zhuo Zhi said immediately.

“Oh, so you only have eyes for your master now? I’m nothing compared to her now that she’s here?” Li Qinyue teased.

Zhuo Zhi burst out laughing, squeezing Li Qinyue’s hand, “Why are you guys like this? Master thinks I only have eyes for you, and you think I only have eyes for Master. What’s going on? Should I just split my vision? One eye for you, one eye for Master…”

Li Qinyue couldn’t help but laugh, “Did Master actually say that?”

“Yes, she even asked me which one of us is prettier!”

“Oh my god…” Li Qinyue couldn’t imagine the Master asking that question.

“She’s just hiding her true self in front of you, just like you’re doing in front of her,” Zhuo Zhi said perceptively, “It’ll be fine after you two get to know each other better.”

“Hahaha…” Li Qinyue suddenly felt that Zhuo Zhi’s inability to hide her thoughts around people she was close to was a good thing. It would help her and the Master understand each other better.

With this matter resolved, Li Qinyue’s reason for coming here had vanished.

But when Zhuo Zhi opened her big police coat, wanting to wrap Li Qinyue in her arms as they walked, Li Qinyue realized that her true purpose might have just been to pick up Zhuo Zhi from work.

It was cold, but the warmth in her heart dispelled the chill. Li Qinyue chatted with Zhuo Zhi about everyday things, “Master made pumpkin cakes…”

“The ones with the six little petal marks?”

“Yes.”

“I love those!”

“Wait, shouldn’t you love the taste of pumpkin? What does the number of petal marks have to do with it?”

“Master always makes them with six marks, and I love everything Master makes.”

“Tsk, Master’s biggest fan, I give up.”

“I’m also your biggest fan.”

“Who knows,” Li Qinyue said.

“It’s true, it’s true, I always praise you in front of Master.”

“Ahem, then remind Master that I was reading about bartending on my phone, not playing games. I don’t have a computer now, that’s the only way I can learn.”

“Hehe, okay! You’re so hardworking, Sister!”

“Don’t make it sound too deliberate! Just casually mention it… Can you even do that?”

“Yes, yes, listen to this…”

The walk home wasn’t long. They were chatting animatedly as they entered White Birch Lane.

The community committee had put up festive lanterns on the trees. The trees in Nanhai City were bare in winter, and the small lanterns looked like persimmons from afar.

As Zhuo Zhi and Li Qinyue reached the center of the complex, before it was completely dark, the lights suddenly came on.

Glowing little persimmons, tacky, but beautiful in Li Qinyue’s eyes.

She hadn’t spent many holidays at White Birch Lane, but the days with her mother felt like lingering particles in the air, resurfacing at moments like this.

Like practicing Tai Chi, like eating Master’s pumpkin cakes, like the warmth of Zhuo Zhi’s hand in hers.

Li Qinyue looked up at her home, the lights were on.

She couldn’t help but sigh, “It’s almost New Year’s.”

“Yes, just a few more days,” Zhuo Zhi echoed her sentiment.

“Just the three of us this year,” Li Qinyue said with a smile.

“Yes, it feels special.”

“Happy?” Li Qinyue looked at her.

“Happy,” Zhuo Zhi nodded vigorously.

“Me too,” Li Qinyue replied sincerely.

Chapter 75

Zhuo Zhi turned around, her face as red as a cooked shrimp.

Officer Sun also looked embarrassed, scratching his head repeatedly.

Li Qinyue, however, was as shameless as ever. She smiled at Officer Sun and said, “Yes, I’m taking Zhuo Zhi out for lunch.”

“Ah,” Officer Sun said instinctively, “Want to join us?”

Li Qinyue said, “No, I’ve already ordered at another restaurant.”

“Oh, okay,” Officer Sun scratched his head again, “Then I’ll go in now. Xiao Zhuo, come straight to the station this afternoon.”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi responded.

Officer Sun turned and went back into the noodle shop, pushing the door a few times before realizing he had to pull it.

Li Qinyue smiled, putting her arm around Zhuo Zhi’s shoulder, “Let’s go, what do you want to eat?”

“Didn’t you say you already ordered?” Zhuo Zhi rubbed her face, which was still burning hot.

“I lied to him, I just caught you when you got off work. You guys work too hard, running around all morning…” She paused, then changed the subject, “You have to go back after lunch, right?”

“Yes,” Zhuo Zhi continued rubbing her face, “Just something simple will do.”

“Okay,” Li Qinyue looked around as they walked, “How about grilled fish?”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi wasn’t looking at the restaurants, her eyes were on Li Qinyue.

Li Qinyue had her arm around her, practically hugging her. Apart from the occasional glances from passersby, attracted by Li Qinyue’s beauty, no one paid them much attention.

Normally, two girls walking on the street, holding hands, hugging, or putting their arms around each other’s waists, wouldn’t be considered unusual. But the kiss earlier had been too intimate.

Zhuo Zhi didn’t know what Officer Sun was thinking, but her own heart was still pounding.

Her heart finally calmed down after they entered the restaurant, ordered their food, and the music and lively atmosphere filled the air.

As she calmed down, her mind started to work again, her eyes widening in realization.

Li Qinyue, sitting across from her, looked at her curiously, “What’s wrong?”

“You said we were running around all morning, Sister,” Zhuo Zhi stared at her, “How did you know?”

Li Qinyue chuckled, “Isn’t it obvious?”

Zhuo Zhi simply said, “Oh,” and took out her phone, typing quickly.

Although Li Qinyue hadn’t intended to tell her about her foolish act, Zhuo Zhi, having sensed something was amiss, had just dropped it after one question?

This made Li Qinyue unhappy.

She looked at Zhuo Zhi’s fingers tapping on her phone and said, “I was messaging you, and you didn’t reply all morning, were you doing that on purpose?”

“No, no, no, I was busy with work, I didn’t even look at my phone.”

“You have time to look at it now?” Li Qinyue squinted at her.

“Yes,” Zhuo Zhi put down her phone, “I’m done.”

“Heh,” Li Qinyue looked down at her tea, “How does it feel? If it’s too tiring, you don’t have to do it, we…”

“No!” Zhuo Zhi’s reply was firm. “I can’t just give up halfway, it’s not really tiring, it’s just that some people are really annoying.”

“Hmm?” Li Qinyue looked at her.

“For example, our first call this morning was about a parent hitting their child, a neighbor reported it, saying the child was screaming like a pig being slaughtered.”

“Just like the couple downstairs from us?” Li Qinyue interjected.

“Yes, I think it’s the same situation. We went over, checked the child’s injuries, it wasn’t serious, just some bruises on the butt. We asked the parent why they hit their child,” Zhuo Zhi mimicked the parent’s expression, her face angry. “Haven’t you ever been beaten as a child? Are you asking about today’s beating or yesterday’s? The reasons are different each time.”

“Damn,” Li Qinyue chuckled.

Zhuo Zhi continued her vivid impersonation, “I said, then tell me about today’s beating. He slammed his exam paper on the table, he failed, only scored ten points in math. But he added a zero at the end, and his father said, ‘Are you trying to fool me, treating me like an idiot?’ Tell me, doesn’t he deserve a beating?”

Li Qinyue burst out laughing.

Zhuo Zhi also chuckled, “I thought to myself, if I had done that, my master would have broken my legs. I didn’t even know what to say. Officer Sun handled it well, he said, ‘You must have beaten him many times before, did it work? Did he change? No, he didn’t. So your method is wrong’.”

Li Qinyue nodded.

Zhuo Zhi slapped the table, “Then Officer Sun started discussing parenting with the father, as a police officer, he’s like a political counselor.”

“A community police officer’s job is basically that,” Li Qinyue said, “Mostly dealing with trivial matters.”

“Yes,” Zhuo Zhi sighed.

Li Qinyue said, “And then?”

“And then…” Just as Zhuo Zhi was about to continue, her phone lit up. She immediately picked it up to check the message.

Li Qinyue’s previous displeasure intensified. She slapped the table, “We’re eating! Can you put down your phone and talk to your friend?”

Zhuo Zhi threw her phone on the table and looked up at Li Qinyue, her eyes suddenly reddening.

Li Qinyue was shocked, “What’s wrong with you? Can’t even take a little criticism now? Are you about to cry?”

“No,” Zhuo Zhi wiped her face with her hand, but it only made her eyes redder.

“Damn, I won’t say anything anymore,” Li Qinyue opened a pack of tissues, took one out, and handed it to Zhuo Zhi, “Don’t wipe your face with your hand.”

Zhuo Zhi took the tissue, stared at it for a moment, then looked up at Li Qinyue and said, “You’re so kind, Sister.”

“So kind for just handing you a tissue,” the waiter started serving their food, and Li Qinyue leaned back.

A steaming plate of grilled fish was placed on the table. Li Qinyue removed the chili peppers and placed a large piece of fish, the part Zhuo Zhi liked, in her bowl, “Eat.”

Zhuo Zhi looked at her through the steam, not moving her chopsticks, “Aren’t you going to tell me, Sister?”

“Tell you what?”

“You waited for me all morning, didn’t you?” Zhuo Zhi’s voice was slightly choked with emotion.

“Damn,” Li Qinyue’s chopsticks froze. She stared at Zhuo Zhi for a few seconds, her face suddenly burning, “No, what are you talking about?”

“You did, don’t lie to me. I just messaged Master and asked her when you left, she said you left shortly after I did,” Zhuo Zhi sniffled, “And I just had a moment to check my phone, and you came looking for me…”

“Eat!” Li Qinyue interrupted her.

“Where were you waiting for me, Sister? I was running around all morning, it was so cold…”

“I told you to eat,” Li Qinyue looked at her, “One more word, and I’m leaving.”

“Okay,” Zhuo Zhi didn’t dare to say anything more.

Meat and vegetables were piled into her bowl.

The drink was her favorite one. Li Qinyue quietly refilled it for her when it was empty.

When Zhuo Zhi dropped her chopsticks, Li Qinyue bent down to pick them up and asked the waiter for a new pair.

Zhuo Zhi was ordered not to speak, just to eat. So, with a heart full of gratitude, she devoured everything on the table.

After lunch, they didn’t have much time to linger.

Li Qinyue knew that. She stood up as soon as Zhuo Zhi finished eating.

Zhuo Zhi followed her closely. Li Qinyue patted her butt, “Go pay the bill.”

Zhuo Zhi, in charge of the family finances, happily went to pay.

It was still cold outside.

Zhuo Zhi tucked Li Qinyue’s hand into her pocket. They didn’t speak, but walked towards the police station in comfortable silence.

Halfway there, Zhuo Zhi couldn’t hold back any longer. She looked up at Li Qinyue, “Can we talk now, Sister?”

“No nonsense,” Li Qinyue didn’t look at her.

“This isn’t nonsense,” Zhuo Zhi said, “How can this be nonsense?”

“Anything I don’t want to hear is nonsense,” Li Qinyue said firmly.

“Oh,” Zhuo Zhi responded, then after taking two steps, she suddenly skipped ahead, turning around to walk backwards, facing Li Qinyue.

“I understand now, Sister,” she said with a wide smile.

Li Qinyue looked at her, silent.

“You’re embarrassed, aren’t you?” Zhuo Zhi’s smile widened, “You didn’t even realize how much you like me, did you?”

Li Qinyue took a deep breath, wanting to slap that smug face.

But she couldn’t bring herself to do it.

She had been surprised by her own childish behavior all morning, and now, hearing it from Zhuo Zhi, it felt like Li Qinyue’s face was being rubbed in the dirt.

Would any adult act like this in a relationship? Li Qinyue wasn’t interested in other people’s love stories, she didn’t know, but she knew she had never imagined her own love life would be like this.

Embarrassing, truly embarrassing.

She had lost all her pride, and from now on, in Zhuo Zhi’s eyes, there would be no more untouchable Li Qinyue.

Her authority had vanished.

Li Qinyue couldn’t speak. Zhuo Zhi’s lips trembled, she looked like she was about to cry again.

“You’re so good, Sister, you’re too good to me, I never thought, you’re so…”

Li Qinyue covered her mouth, “Shut up, don’t say it.”

“Mmmpphhh…”

“That’s just how I am, Li Qinyue. I do what I want, it has nothing to do with you.”

“Mmmpphhh…”

“Today was an exception, it won’t happen again, definitely not!”

“Steamed?” Zhuo Zhi managed to mumble, pushing Li Qinyue’s hand away slightly.

“Boiled,” Li Qinyue shook off her hand and walked away quickly.

Her long strides made her look like she was gliding, just like when she had left the apartment earlier that morning.

Li Qinyue, fuming, suddenly found it amusing. Before she could even frown, she started laughing.

Zhuo Zhi caught up to her, her eyes on Li Qinyue. Seeing her laugh, she smiled too and stealthily took Li Qinyue’s hand, slipping it into her pocket.

They were approaching the police station, they had been spotted, and Li Qinyue couldn’t spend the afternoon with Zhuo Zhi anymore, nor would Zhuo Zhi allow it.

It was almost time to part ways. They wouldn’t see each other again for another four or five hours.

It felt like an eternity…

So, Li Qinyue forgave Zhuo Zhi, cherishing their time together, holding her hand tightly in her pocket.

Their steps slowed unconsciously, but even a snail would reach its destination eventually. Just as they reached the police station, Zhuo Zhi suddenly pulled Li Qinyue into a nearby corner.

The spot wasn’t completely hidden, they could still be seen from certain angles.

But although Zhuo Zhi felt shy, she knew what she was doing. They were openly in love, openly affectionate, and determined to be together. So… what was wrong with indulging in a little intimacy when they couldn’t help themselves?

Li Qinyue was pressed against the wall by Zhuo Zhi, who stood on tiptoe, her lips finding Li Qinyue’s.

Her sister, after all, still cared about her. The kiss only lasted a couple of seconds before Li Qinyue bent down, eliminating the height difference between them.

Zhuo Zhi’s tongue probed at her lips. Li Qinyue didn’t let her in, pulling away slightly, a smile on her face, “What are you doing, in broad daylight?”

“Didn’t you want to buy a kiss from me?” Zhuo Zhi’s voice was husky, her breath warm on Li Qinyue’s lips. “I’ll sell it to you for one mao.”

***

T/N: mao is equivalent to one-tenth of a yuan, or 10 fen (similar to how “cents” are used in relation to dollars)