Category: Qin Auntie, Save Me [Rebirth]

Chapter 81

Wen Shao Ze was truly serious this time, practically setting up camp in Meng City. He had temporarily handed over his business in Hai City to his company and was staying here, waiting for the investigation results.

Qin Qianrou had tried to persuade him to return a few times, but Wen Shao Ze was adamant, his every word revealing his doting older brother persona.

“Qianrou, I can’t just sit and wait this time. By the time those people finish their investigation, the western rains will have dried up. Besides, who knows how much of the truth they’ll actually uncover.”

Shen Yiqiu brought out a bowl of wontons from the kitchen, and Wen Shao Ze, without hesitation, thanked her and started eating.

“I’ve heard from Xiao Wan that your wontons are different from the ones outside. I’ve been craving them, and I finally get to try them today.”

Qin Qianrou slowly swallowed a wonton, then casually said, “As long as there are any left, you’re always welcome to have some.”

Shen Yiqiu smiled and added, “Shao Ze-ge, you should have told me earlier, I could have prepared some for you to take home.”

Wen Shao Ze had initially just wanted to enjoy a free meal, to satisfy his craving, but now, after a few delicious wontons, his appetite had grown considerably. Hearing he could not only eat them here but also take some home was like winning the lottery.

“How can I trouble you? You’re busy with your studies, and you still have to make these after class, and now I’m even taking some home…” Wen Shao Ze made a few polite remarks, about to end with a grateful “Thank you so much,” when Qin Qianrou interrupted him.

“Shao Ze, it shouldn’t be difficult for your housekeeper to make some wontons, and there are plenty of good wonton restaurants in Hai City. You’re welcome to have some whenever there are any in the fridge, Shen Yiqiu is very busy lately, she doesn’t have time to make more.”

Wen Shao Ze’s face fell, unable to argue with that.

He glanced at the ever-calm Qin Qianrou, then at Shen Yiqiu, her eyes crinkling in a smile as she looked at him apologetically, and he could only resign himself to eating another wonton, suppressing his frustration.

How outrageous, just a few wontons, and Qianrou is already so protective.

Wen Shao Ze finished the wontons and the broth, leaning back in his chair contentedly.

“Shao Ze-ge, let me make you some tea.”

Just as Shen Yiqiu was about to clear the table, Qin Qianrou placed a hand on her arm. “It’s just a few bowls, Shao Ze, why don’t you wash them?”

“I’m a guest, and I have to do the dishes?” Wen Shao Ze pointed at himself, his tone, however, not particularly surprised.

“Didn’t you just say you were too full? This will help with digestion.”

Wen Shao Ze shook his head and stood up, his movements surprisingly practiced.

“Alright, you’re finally learning to be considerate, not letting Shen Yiqiu do anything, just making your older brother work.”

Shen Yiqiu hadn’t thought much of it, but Wen Shao Ze’s words made her feel slightly embarrassed, yet also strangely… pleased.

After Wen Shao Ze started washing the dishes, Shen Yiqiu made tea and joined Qin Qianrou on the sofa.

“Should I go help him?”

“He often does the dishes at home, don’t worry.”

“Ah? Shao Ze-ge does the dishes at home?” Shen Yiqiu was surprised, a CEO, doing dishes?

“He likes doing chores when he’s stressed.”

“Oh, I see.” Shen Yiqiu glanced towards the kitchen, Wen Shao Ze’s movements seemed more energetic now, less sluggish than before.

Wen Shao Ze had been utilizing his extensive network of contacts these past few days, determined to uncover the truth behind the incident at the Xinting Hotel. To his surprise, he first discovered that someone in another room on the same floor had also been targeted that day.

“Qianrou, this is definitely not a simple matter. You were unconscious, and in another room, not far from yours, that Cheng Yan kid was also drugged, it can’t be a coincidence, can it?”

Both Qin Qianrou and Shen Yiqiu had been shocked when they first heard this from Wen Shao Ze. After learning Cheng Yan’s identity, Shen Yiqiu’s feelings had become even more complicated.

As Wen Shao Ze continued sharing the information he had gathered, Qin Qianrou couldn’t find an opportunity to explain the situation with the Cheng family. However, she could sense the shift in Shen Yiqiu’s mood.

Shen Yiqiu listened quietly, her heart heavy, when a hand gently covered hers.

She turned and saw Jiejie’s perfect profile.

She looked down, confirming it was Qin Qianrou’s hand holding hers.

The warmth from Qin Qianrou’s hand gradually spread to hers, a silent reassurance, and the weight on her heart lifted. Shen Yiqiu looked up and gave her a loving smile.

“Ahem, can you two show some consideration for this lonely single person? I’m talking until my throat is dry, and you two are flirting right in front of me.”

Shen Yiqiu tried to pull her hand away, but Qin Qianrou held on tightly.

With her free hand, she pushed the teacup towards Wen Shao Ze, her tone calm, “Thank you for your effort, have some tea.”

Wen Shao Ze sighed and picked up his teacup.

“I visited him at the hospital, he was worse off than you, after being drugged and then forcing himself to stay awake, he looked quite weak.”

As a man, Wen Shao Ze understood Cheng Yan’s suffering that day.

The other two, hearing this, their expressions also turned grim.

“Thankfully, Shen Yiqiu arrived just in time, otherwise…” Even now, just imagining it was frightening.

Qin Qianrou thought for a moment, then asked, “Was this targeting me, or Cheng Yan?”

“We’re still investigating, but from what Cheng Yan said, it seems you were the main target, but using Cheng Yan as a pawn also suggests they wanted to implicate the Cheng family, it might be a scheme to kill two birds with one stone.”

The Cheng family had been thriving these past few years, their influence in Hai City growing rapidly, almost on par with the Qin family. Cheng Yan, after returning from studying abroad, had taken over the family business, unlike Qin Qianrou, who insisted on being a reporter, fulfilling the elders’ expectations.

“But I still think it’s related to the He Chao case.”

Qin Qianrou had visited Jiang Yuan twice since He Chao’s death in prison, finding her withdrawn and unresponsive. But a while ago, she had unexpectedly contacted Qin Qianrou through her lawyer, requesting a meeting.

Recalling He Chao’s words during their meeting, Qin Qianrou thought that perhaps the people he had mentioned, those involved in his shady dealings, had started taking action.

He Chao had been the first, she was the second, and Jiang Yuan might be next.

“The He Chao matter is definitely not simple, he had been tight-lipped before, taking all the blame himself, and all the evidence had been erased. If he hadn’t revealed it himself, it would have been very difficult to uncover.” Wen Shao Ze was also a little apprehensive, the forces behind He Chao weren’t just a few greedy businessmen.

“Qianrou, you should stay home and rest for now, let us handle the outside matters.”

Qin Qianrou glanced at Wen Shao Ze, “Is that what my family wants?”

“Aunt said she’ll handle things in Hai City, and she asked me to take care of the Meng City side.”

With her family involved, Qin Qianrou knew this couldn’t be suppressed any longer, especially with the Cheng family implicated. Although she and Cheng Yan had a cordial relationship, if it weren’t for Shen Yiqiu’s timely arrival, the consequences would have been dire.

Qin Qianrou felt even more reliant on the person beside her, Li Wan had told her later that Shen Yiqiu’s hands and lips had been covered in blood that day, a frightening sight at first, then replaced by heartache, this usually gentle and sweet child had been so incredibly brave.

**

The plan to drug Qin Qianrou and Cheng Yan, to stage a compromising scene and take photos and videos, had failed, naturally, some were relieved, while others were furious.

After so much planning and resources invested, it had all been for nothing. The person in charge of executing the plan had been apprehended and brought back to Hai City, what exactly had happened at the Xinting Hotel that day, to make such a seemingly foolproof plan fail?

“Sheng-ge, I’m telling the truth, I followed the plan every step of the way.”

The man addressed as Sheng-ge had a faint scar at the corner of his eye, a noticeable mark that made him seem intimidating.

“Followed the plan? Then how did it turn into such a mess? My plan considered every possibility, and I even gave you extra time. Look at what you’ve done, it’s a complete disaster!”

“Everything went smoothly at first, after drugging the reporter, I brought her to the room, even took off her coat, she was completely unconscious. Then, Ade contacted me, saying he had taken care of the Cheng kid, the drugs would take effect in ten minutes. I left the room to get him, and then…”

He stopped abruptly.

Sheng-ge looked at him coldly, twirling the gleaming dagger in his hand.

“And then what? Don’t tell me you got lost in the hotel.”

The man looked innocent and bewildered, almost pleading as he explained, “I didn’t get lost, but it was like… I was being haunted.”

Sheng-ge scoffed, gesturing for him to continue, his eyes, however, clearly showing disbelief.

“It was like I was cursed, I kept repeating the same actions, bringing the reporter to the room, receiving Ade’s messages, but as soon as I left the room, I would be back at the beginning again.”

His story becoming increasingly absurd, Sheng-ge stopped playing with the dagger, his index finger gently tracing its sharp edge.

“Are you telling me the truth?”

“It’s true! I thought it was strange too, but that’s what happened!”

“Then how did you find Ade?”

If it was as he claimed, why had Ade been found in Cheng Yan’s room twenty minutes later?

“I don’t know, I kept repeating the same thing several times, then suddenly, I could move on.”

The man’s explanation seemed even less believable to himself. If he hadn’t experienced it firsthand, he wouldn’t have believed it either. Having worked for Sheng-ge for so many years, believing in ghosts and spirits would have sent him to hell long ago.

“Do you think I’m a child?” Sheng-ge leaned closer, staring at the man kneeling before him, bound and gagged, his eyes sharp, his expression clearly saying, Do you think I’m stupid?

“No, no, I’m telling the truth!”

The dagger pressed against his neck, just inches from his artery.

“I can tolerate mistakes, I can even accept you being twenty minutes behind schedule, but insulting my intelligence, making up such lies right in front of me…”

The dagger moved slightly, forcing the man to raise his chin, not daring to lower it.

“Sheng-ge, I really didn’t…”

There was no explaining this, who knew he would encounter such a bizarre situation? This was even more frustrating than being caught by the police after drugging Qin Qianrou, but it had happened, and he couldn’t defend himself.

Besides, no one would believe him anyway.

Sheng-ge, seeing his silence, knowing he wouldn’t get any more details, waved his hand, dismissing him.

With the plan having gone awry on Qin Qianrou’s side, Ade, waiting in Cheng Yan’s room, hadn’t dared to act. Seeing the agreed-upon time pass with no sign of his accomplice, he hadn’t dared to leave the room, his anxiety growing.

Then, hearing a commotion in the hotel, he knew the plan had been exposed. Just as he was about to escape through the window, someone entered the room.

Seeing him trying to climb out the window, the person seemed surprised, “I just arrived, and you’re already leaving?”

Ade had wanted to confront this incompetent fool who had ruined everything, but escaping was his priority now, he didn’t have time for this.

“You messed up, don’t drag me down with you!”

The commotion outside intensified, Cheng Yan’s face flushing, his body stirring restlessly, but he couldn’t be moved now, and they couldn’t stay here any longer.

Three minutes later, only Cheng Yan, still under the influence of the drugs, remained in the room, vaguely aware of the commotion in the nearby room, but unable to understand what was happening.

Sheng-ge twirled his dagger, still puzzled by what could have happened during those twenty minutes that had foiled his plan.

Although the man’s explanation had been absurd, he hadn’t believed a word of it. But seeing his desperation, clinging to that excuse even when facing death, perhaps it wasn’t entirely a lie?

Sheng-ge was frustrated, he had guaranteed success, now, having accepted the payment, yet failing to deliver, how was he going to explain this to his clients?

Wen Shao Ze, hearing this explanation three days later than Sheng-ge, had immediately questioned if it was a joke, using such an absurd excuse to collect his payment.

“Young Master Wen, I’ve worked for you for many years, regardless of the task, big or small, the payment large or small, have I ever lied to you?”

Wen Shao Ze, holding the phone, considered the truthfulness of his words.

“This information wasn’t easy to obtain, I had to pull some strings to get this, this is the original account Sheng-ge got during the interrogation, guaranteed authentic.”

Wen Shao Ze finally paid him, and when he relayed this information to Qin Qianrou, he saw the same puzzled look on her face.

“What, you’re also confused?” Wen Shao Ze felt a sense of camaraderie, he wasn’t the only one baffled by this.

Qin Qianrou, however, had a different focus. She couldn’t understand why that man would claim to have repeatedly brought her into the room during those twenty minutes.

“Qianrou, are you okay?” Wen Shao Ze, seeing her silence, her furrowed brow, as if deep in thought,

was worried she might be upset and tried to comfort her, “If you can’t remember what happened that day, then don’t think about it, you were unconscious anyway, you don’t know anything. Leave the rest to me, I’ll investigate.”

“No, I remember.”

Qin Qianrou wasn’t eager to relive the events of that day, but she knew that only by examining every detail could they find the true clues.

Shen Yiqiu also remained silent, her expression even more serious than Qin Qianrou’s.

“I’m fine now, don’t worry.” Qin Qianrou thought Shen Yiqiu was still traumatized by the incident, the child always looked distressed whenever it was mentioned.

This was also why Qin Qianrou had deliberately avoided the topic, she didn’t want to upset Shen Yiqiu.

“Jiejie, I think I can explain what happened during those twenty minutes.”

What?

Both Qin Qianrou and Wen Shao Ze were surprised, but Qin Qianrou recovered more quickly.

Shen Yiqiu organized her thoughts, she had also been puzzled these past few days, something about that day had seemed strange, but she couldn’t pinpoint what it was. With the new information, a theory had gradually formed in her mind.

“That repeating twenty minutes, it might have been caused by me.”

Wen Shao Ze’s jaw dropped.

Qin Qianrou was startled. “You’re saying, besides your premonitions, you can also control people’s actions?”

Shen Yiqiu nodded, then shook her head. “I can’t control them, but I can… freeze time.”

Wen Shao Ze felt like he was watching a live-action science fiction movie.

“You mean, your ability is different now?”

Shen Yiqiu bit her lip, unsure how to explain, it was just a theory, after all, she would need to test it, but she really didn’t want to experience that again, it probably wouldn’t be a pleasant experience.

“It might be related to my blood, I tried opening the door with my uninjured hand that day, and it didn’t work, then I switched hands, and the door opened immediately. At the time, I was just focused on finding you, I didn’t think much of it.”

Li Wan, ever cautious, after taking Qin Qianrou away, had immediately arranged for someone to clean the room and remove any traces. She didn’t want the police involved, it would affect Qin Qianrou’s reputation, and Li Wan didn’t mind being selfish this time.

If it was as Shen Yiqiu described, then it all made sense. Those inexplicable twenty minutes, the repeated actions, had been caused by Shen Yiqiu freezing time. And since it was a localized time freeze, it had only affected specific individuals, while time continued normally for everyone else.

Wen Shao Ze’s mind struggled to process this, he understood each individual word, but the meaning eluded him.

“Wait, were you two just discussing movies, or… what we were talking about earlier?”

Qin Qianrou knew he wouldn’t understand immediately, and she didn’t want to explain the details, after all, this involved Shen Yiqiu’s privacy.

“Do you think we’re in the mood to discuss movies right now?”

Wen Shao Ze took a sip of tea to calm himself down, he had actually thought the informant had been making up stories to get his money.

“Time freeze ability? Can I borrow Shen Yiqiu for a few days then? I’ve been eyeing a few stocks, she can help me out.”

Shen Yiqiu looked at him, speechless. “I can only use it on people in danger, I can’t help you make money.”

Wen Shao Ze was, of course, joking, if she could do everything, the world would be in chaos.

“But why was only Qianrou’s time frozen? Wasn’t Cheng Yan also a victim?”

Shen Yiqiu said apologetically, “I can’t control it, I can only sense and affect people I’m close to, I sensed Jiejie’s situation, so I could only save Jiejie.”

So, Wen Shao Ze, with his confused and earnest questions, had been force-fed a large bowl of dog food (public display of affection).

Chapter 80

After his outburst, Wen Shao Ze returned to his usual doting older brother mode, specifically calling the doctor over for another check-up, only relaxing slightly after receiving confirmation that Qin Qianrou was fine.

The sudden incident had left him exhausted. He had been dealing with his family’s constant pressure to get married, secretly searching for Yuan Qi, helping Qin Qianrou investigate He Chao, and then learning about Dongsheng Group’s schemes at the television station.

He wasn’t sure who was behind Qin Qianrou’s attack, but regardless of who it was, he would make them pay.

“Cousin, Shao Ze-ge, you should go back, I’ll stay here with Jiejie.” Shen Yiqiu had mostly calmed down, although she looked a little pale, her overall demeanor was stable.

Yuan Qi nodded and glanced at Qin Qianrou again.

“Call me if anything happens.”

Shen Yiqiu smiled faintly and nodded.

Wen Shao Ze, after saying goodbye to Shen Yiqiu, watched Yuan Qi leave, then left himself. However, he had only been gone for a short while when he realized Yuan Qi had disappeared.

He was annoyed, but their unexpected encounter had been a shock for both of them. They had both been putting on a brave face in the ward, and although anxious, Wen Shao Ze knew this wasn’t the time to pursue him relentlessly.

Besides, he had to deal with Qin Qianrou’s matter first.

Rubbing his temples, he couldn’t determine whether he was more happy or more… melancholic and lost.

Wen Yirong arrived late at night, quietly entering the ward, her gaze immediately falling on her precious daughter lying in bed. The small bedside lamp cast a dim glow, but it couldn’t hinder a mother’s instinct to find her child.

She hurried over, then noticed another person slumped by the bedside. Wen Shao Ze had explained the situation in detail, and she recognized the figure from behind.

Her earlier suspicions resurfaced, and Wen Yirong sighed softly.

Shen Yiqiu wasn’t deeply asleep, she was simply exhausted, emotionally drained, having dozed off lightly, waking at the slightest sound.

“Did I scare you?” Wen Yirong’s voice was as gentle and elegant as ever, her worry masked by her calm demeanor.

“Aunt Wen, please have a seat.” Shen Yiqiu stood up and placed a chair by the bed.

“There were some matters at home, so I was delayed.”

Although it wasn’t that late considering the distance from Hai City, given the Qin family’s influence, it was still later than expected.

Shen Yiqiu didn’t know how to respond, she was filled with guilt, blaming herself for not protecting Qin Qianrou, feeling that it was because of her that Jiejie had been harmed. Seeing Wen Yirong now, the words caught in her throat, and she forgot to be nervous.

“Child, don’t worry too much, Xiao Rou will be fine, the doctor said she’s out of danger. You should take care of yourself, don’t collapse after she wakes up.”

Wen Yirong’s voice was even gentler than usual, her usual playful teasing replaced by maternal concern, and Shen Yiqiu’s heart softened, her eyes reddening.

“You child, so easily moved to tears. Don’t cry here, if Xiao Rou wakes up and sees you crying, she’ll blame me.”

Shen Yiqiu rubbed her eyes, insisting she wasn’t crying.

Wen Yirong’s gaze lingered on her daughter, it had been a while since she had properly looked at Xiao Rou.

“I’ll take good care of Jiejie in the future.”

Wen Yirong turned to look at her, then, after a moment of silence, said, “I’ve considered asking her to return to Hai City. After all, that’s her home, her family is there, she’ll be safer.”

The light in Shen Yiqiu’s eyes dimmed, she knew that would probably be better for Qin Qianrou, but it also meant a long separation. Even a short business trip had been so difficult to bear, let alone a permanent separation.

Seeing her silence, Wen Yirong smiled helplessly. “But I also know how she feels, if she was willing to come back, she would have done so long ago. So, it’ll be up to you to take care of her.”

Shen Yiqiu was stunned by that last sentence, unable to process it.

Wen Yirong hadn’t insisted on Qin Qianrou returning to Hai City, which surprised both Wen Shao Ze and Li Wan.

Wen Yirong didn’t stay long in the ward. Shen Yiqiu messaged Li Wan about this, and before she could even lock her phone, Li Wan’s call came.

“Did Aunt Wen really say that?” Li Wan had been worried about this all night and hadn’t expected such a calm reaction.

“Yes, that’s what she said.”

“She really didn’t insist on Qianrou returning?”

“No, she even told me to take good care of Jiejie.”

This was truly strange, and Li Wan was amazed.

“That’s good, saves you two from a long-distance relationship, it wouldn’t be easy.” Li Wan also didn’t want to be separated from her friend.

“By the way, have you found out what happened?”

“No leads yet, but Wen Shao Ze is already investigating, I’ve also contacted some people, we should have some answers in a couple of days.”

Two days later, Qin Qianrou was discharged. Shen Yiqiu was incredibly attentive, practically hovering over her, even supporting her as they got in and out of the car.

Li Wan and Wen Shao Ze, witnessing this, couldn’t help but tease her.

“With all this fuss, anyone would think Qianrou is pregnant.”

Wen Shao Ze received a sharp glare from Qin Qianrou, but Shen Yiqiu didn’t seem to notice.

She seemed completely oblivious, or perhaps simply didn’t care. Her entire attention was focused on Qin Qianrou, anything she could do for her wasn’t excessive.

Qin Qianrou, however, felt a little embarrassed, and after getting out of the car, she gently withdrew her hand, saying, “I’m fine now, I can walk by myself.”

Shen Yiqiu released her arm, then immediately took her hand again.

“You’re fine, but I’m not.”

Li Wan, following behind them, chuckled softly.

“Qianrou, just give in, you’ve scared your little one half to death these past few days, just let her take care of you, put her mind at ease.”

The first thing Qin Qianrou had seen upon waking up was Shen Yiqiu asleep by her bedside. Memories flooded back, the emotions before losing consciousness, all overshadowed by the relief of seeing Shen Yiqiu safe and sound.

Shen Yiqiu, even in her sleep, her brow was furrowed with worry, and Qin Qianrou had wanted to reach out and smooth it out, but she couldn’t quite reach. She gently touched the back of Shen Yiqiu’s hand, and she immediately woke up.

“Jiejie, are you alright?”

She leaned closer, her eyes filled with joy and relief, but she carefully avoided putting any weight on Qin Qianrou.

“Mm, I’m awake.”

Shen Yiqiu kissed her forehead tenderly, then immediately pressed the call button.

The nurse and the doctor arrived shortly, and Qin Qianrou finally received confirmation of her discharge. The nurses couldn’t help but comment that, during the past two days, Shen Yiqiu had been the one who looked more like a patient, her anxiety and exhaustion evident, she had practically wanted to chain the doctor to the bedside for constant monitoring.

Being home was truly the best. Li Wan and Wen Shao Ze, understandingly, left early. Shen Yiqiu, like a busy little bee, bustled about the apartment.

“Jiejie, drink this first.” Shen Yiqiu brought a bowl of soup from the kitchen; she had started simmering it before going to pick Qin Qianrou up from the hospital.

“I’m not that fragile, it’s not like I had major surgery.”

“Don’t say such things, it’s bad luck, don’t say them again.”

Qin Qianrou took the soup and sipped it slowly, looking at Shen Yiqiu’s anxious expression, she couldn’t help but tease, “Such a superstitious child.”

“Anything related to you, I don’t care about superstitions, I just want to eliminate all possibilities of anything bad happening.”

“Alright, alright, I won’t say it again.”

Shen Yiqiu finally smiled, but Qin Qianrou still sensed a hint of strain in her expression.

She initially thought it was simply exhaustion from staying at the hospital, but even that evening, Shen Yiqiu’s brow remained furrowed, as if preoccupied with something.

Her worried expression seemed involuntary, she probably hadn’t even realized it herself.

Qin Qianrou leaned against her, chatting idly. They had discussed the incident in detail after she woke up and hadn’t deliberately brought it up again.

“What are you thinking about?” Qin Qianrou finally couldn’t help but ask, gently stroking Shen Yiqiu’s brow.

“Nothing.”

“You’re lying.”

Qin Qianrou didn’t believe her, this child couldn’t hide anything, especially from her, she was always so honest and transparent.

“I was just thinking, if it weren’t for me, you wouldn’t have suffered like this.”

Qin Qianrou was surprised and puzzled by her words.

“If it weren’t for me, you wouldn’t have offended Dongsheng Group, you wouldn’t still be pursuing the He Chao matter.”

Wen Shao Ze had told her about this, deepening Shen Yiqiu’s guilt.

“If it weren’t for me, you wouldn’t have been dragged into all this mess, you wouldn’t have been…”

Qin Qianrou knew what she was about to say and firmly interrupted her, “That’s just your assumption, not the reality.”

Shen Yiqiu was taken aback and didn’t continue.

“I’m a reporter, my duty is to report the truth, if it weren’t for you, perhaps Dongsheng Group or He Chao’s wrongdoings would have been discovered much later, or perhaps they would have remained hidden forever, but would that have been a good thing? I might have been safe, but what about the others who suffered because the truth was concealed?”

Shen Yiqiu didn’t respond, but she knew the answer in her heart.

Qin Qianrou shifted slightly, finding a more comfortable position in Shen Yiqiu’s embrace, and wrapped her arms around her waist.

“Besides, even if I hadn’t reported on Dongsheng, or investigated He Chao, wouldn’t there have been other similar stories for me to uncover? So, it wasn’t because of you that I encountered these things, it’s simply the nature of my work.”

“But…”

“I know you’re worried about me, I’ll be more careful in the future.”

Such assurances couldn’t truly comfort Shen Yiqiu, she wanted to be with Qin Qianrou as much as possible, so she could protect her.

“So stop blaming yourself, it’s pointless.” Qin Qianrou shifted again, sitting up beside Shen Yiqiu.

“And besides, without you, my life would be much less… colorful.”

Shen Yiqiu felt a wave of warmth and affection from Jiejie.

Their breaths mingled, the familiar closeness returning.

Without a word, their lips met in a soft kiss.

No passionate intensity, just a gentle caress, and to Shen Yiqiu, it felt like an eternity.

**

Lin Shuangzhi, after hearing the news from Li Wan, rushed back the next day. After visiting Qin Qianrou at the hospital, Li Wan drove her home.

“Another day wasted?”

“Not exactly wasted, I met with the director.”

“It seems the outcome wasn’t very promising.”

Lin Shuangzhi looked at her and chuckled, “You know me too well.”

Li Wan, focusing on the road ahead, said casually, “You’re just not very good at hiding your feelings.”

Lin Shuangzhi sighed and relaxed slightly. “The director suggested that if it’s just a matter of questioning Director Yu’s capabilities, we should discuss it with the city government or the station directors. If we insist on reporting him, we need stronger evidence.”

Li Wan had expected as much, such matters were rarely straightforward.

“The information Director Jian provided, do you think it’s usable?”

“It is, but it’ll take some time to organize.”

Li Wan breathed a sigh of relief, at least it was usable.

But then Lin Shuangzhi said, “But I’m afraid we don’t have much time. It’s just the beginning, and Qianrou has already been targeted, I don’t know what will happen next.”

“Are you scared?”

Lin Shuangzhi admitted frankly, “A little.”

Li Wan was slightly angry; she hadn’t known the team leader was so timid.

She fell silent, and Lin Shuangzhi, still immersed in her worries, didn’t notice the change in her mood.

The scenery outside the car window blurred as Lin Shuangzhi tapped her fingers on her leg, lost in thought.

After a moment of consideration, she said, “Xiao Wan, after Qianrou is discharged, you should both… stay out of this.”

Li Wan’s grip on the steering wheel tightened, a surge of anger rising within her.

“I’ll handle this, you shouldn’t get involved anymore.”

“Can you handle this alone?” Li Wan’s voice sharpened, and Lin Shuangzhi finally noticed her change in mood.

“I can’t let you be put in danger again and again.”

“In our line of work, we don’t expect to just sit in the office, sipping milk tea and waiting for the end of the workday.”

“Xiao Wan!”

“Team Leader, are you any different from us? Just because your position is higher? More experience? Or do you have some special skill that protects you?”

Lin Shuangzhi was speechless, she could only remain silent.

“Since we’re all the same, why are you pushing Qianrou and me away? Fighting this together is better than you doing this alone.”

“I’m worried about you, I’m scared!” Lin Shuangzhi’s voice rose in agitation.

Li Wan rarely saw such an emotional outburst from her and didn’t know what to say.

“If you were the one who was hurt, and I wasn’t there for you, what would I do? I can’t even bear to imagine it, if something happened to you, I don’t think I could handle it.”

Li Wan’s grip on the steering wheel tightened again, she didn’t know what to say.

So, the team leader cares about her this much?

“Then… I might not be so unlucky.” Her words lacked conviction, not even convincing herself.

“Xiao Wan, even if the possibility is only one in ten thousand, I would still be worried, very worried!”

Lin Shuangzhi’s emphatic tone left Li Wan speechless.

The car fell silent. Only as they approached Lin Shuangzhi’s complex did Li Wan finally speak. “You’re worried about me, we’re also worried about you, the only way to eliminate the danger is to resolve this quickly.”

They both understood this logic, but they didn’t want each other to be harmed.

“We’re here, go up, take a shower, and get some rest. Your eyes are bloodshot, it’s scary.”

Lin Shuangzhi knew she couldn’t dissuade Li Wan. After a moment of hesitation, she opened the car door.

As she walked away, she heard footsteps behind her.

“Team Leader.”

Lin Shuangzhi turned around and saw Li Wan standing before her.

Before she could speak, Li Wan cupped Lin Shuangzhi’s face in her hands and gently kissed her lips.

“I’ll protect myself, don’t worry, you should take care of yourself too, because I feel the same way.”

With that, she quickly let go, turned around, got in the car, and drove away.

A swift and decisive departure, not giving Lin Shuangzhi a chance to respond.

Watching her drive away, Lin Shuangzhi standing there dumbfounded, Li Wan felt a warmth spreading through her, as if fireworks were exploding in her ears.

She had sensed the team leader’s concern, and after that visit to her apartment, seeing the vase she had given her, hearing her story about being abandoned, Li Wan had already forgiven her.

Although they hadn’t mentioned that night again, she had belatedly realized she might have misunderstood the team leader.

Their current situation didn’t allow for romance, they had no time for love, but the care they felt for each other was undeniable, perhaps even amplified by the looming crisis.

Lin Shuangzhi was afraid, and so was Li Wan. She hadn’t had a moment of peace since Lin Shuangzhi went to the provincial government.

Lin Shuangzhi returned home, exhausted. Although Li Wan had assured her she would be careful, against such powerful forces, even the greatest caution might not be enough. Someone had already dared to attack Qin Qianrou, who knew who would be next?

Lin Shuangzhi didn’t want to back down, but she also didn’t want to see anyone else get hurt. She thought, perhaps she should take a step back, find another way to protect them all.

Chapter 79

Shen Yiqiu wasn’t athletic; her long-distance running test scores had always been borderline passing. But now, running towards the Xinting Hotel, she felt no fatigue, no fear of slowing down.

The rustling of her down jacket against her body, she ran relentlessly, her throat dry and scratchy, her breath coming in ragged gasps. She felt like crying, but tears now would only hinder her.

Shen Yiqiu bit her lip hard, forcing herself to stay focused and calm. She clutched her phone tightly, having repeatedly dialed Qin Qianrou’s number in the taxi, only to be met with the cold, automated message, “The subscriber you have dialed is powered off.”

Warm tears fell onto her hand, then onto her phone, staining it, but Shen Yiqiu didn’t notice. She blamed herself for becoming complacent, for not taking her premonitions seriously, there had been so many opportunities to warn Jiejie, yet she had only offered a few casual reminders.

Her hand ached from gripping the cold phone, her fingers white from the pressure, the cold wind biting at her skin, almost numbing her hand.

Finally, she reached the Xinting Hotel.

She didn’t alert the receptionist, but calmed her breathing, composing herself, walking through the lobby like any other guest. She joined others in the elevator, leaning against the back corner, her eyes closed.

She hadn’t known where Qin Qianrou was, only that her premonition had led her to this hotel. But the moment she stepped into the lobby, another premonition came,

This time, she saw the room number.

2332, not a particularly high floor, yet it felt as distant as the heavens. She messaged Li Wan the details, then, unable to wait any longer, she rushed upstairs, even alone, she had to save Jiejie.

Finding room 2332, Shen Yiqiu pressed the doorbell, but there was no response.

She knocked anxiously, still no reaction.

Shen Yiqiu frowned, she was almost ready to force the door open. She switched the phone to her other hand, having noticed just before entering the elevator, her hand was covered in blood.

The blood had dried, but the warmth of the hotel and the sweat on her palms had softened the dried bloodstains, the bright red stark against her pale skin.

She jiggled the doorknob forcefully, and suddenly, with a click, the door unlocked.

After a brief moment of surprise, Shen Yiqiu rushed inside like a bolt of lightning.

The room wasn’t large. Past a short hallway, she saw a large double bed in the center. Everything else in the room seemed to fade away, her gaze fixed on the figure lying motionless on the bed.

Qin Qianrou’s coat was discarded on the footstool at the end of the bed, she lay there, her eyes closed, seemingly peaceful, oblivious to the intruder.

Shen Yiqiu knew her, Qin Qianrou wouldn’t sleep so soundly, not reacting to such a commotion.

She rushed to the bedside, ignoring her own dishevelled appearance, and gently touched Qin Qianrou’s face, her frantic heart finally calming slightly upon seeing her.

“Jiejie, wake up.” Shen Yiqiu whispered, although she didn’t know why Qin Qianrou was unconscious, they had to leave this place immediately.

The scene was similar to her premonition, yet also different. For example, Qin Qianrou was alone in the room, there was no young man in a yellow tie, and she was still wearing her shirt.

The room seemed… too tidy, too undisturbed, as if Qin Qianrou had been brought here and then simply left.

Whatever the reason, seeing Jiejie like this made Shen Yiqiu’s heart ache. She quickly called Li Wan, telling her she had found Qin Qianrou and urging her to come quickly.

Li Wan had been frantic, too anxious to drive herself. She hadn’t been able to find a taxi after leaving the station and hadn’t dared to ask her colleagues for help, afraid of the rumors spreading and affecting Qin Qianrou’s reputation.

Her family driver had naturally responded quickly, but it had still taken some time, and Li Wan, unable to bear waiting at the station, had set off on foot, despite wearing moderately high heels, her arms wrapped around herself against the cold.

“Shen Yiqiu, I’m downstairs, I’ll be right there.”

Shen Yiqiu called Qin Qianrou’s name a few more times, and seeing she remained unconscious, helped her sit up. Her cashmere sweater had been removed and discarded on the other side of the bed, thankfully, her shirt was still intact. Shen Yiqiu reached for her down jacket at the foot of the bed, wanting to put it on her.

Just then, she heard a soft moan and immediately turned around.

“Jiejie?”

“Mm…”

Qin Qianrou responded softly, either a reflex or perhaps having actually heard Shen Yiqiu’s voice.

Shen Yiqiu cautiously glanced at the door, no one was there.

This place wasn’t safe, they had to leave immediately.

Shen Yiqiu helped her put on her jacket and supported her as they got out of bed, but Qin Qianrou’s body was limp, her entire weight leaning against Shen Yiqiu.

“I’ll take you home.”

Shen Yiqiu gently kissed her cheek, the faint bloodstains from her earlier touch stark against her skin.

“Qiu…” Qin Qianrou’s consciousness returned slightly, but she still felt weak.

She opened her eyes with some effort and saw Shen Yiqiu beside her. She wanted to smile, but she didn’t have the energy.

“It’s me, I’m sorry I’m late.” Shen Yiqiu sniffled, forcing herself to remain calm. “Let’s go.”

Footsteps approached from the hallway, a hurried, chaotic sound, and Shen Yiqiu held Qin Qianrou closer, protectively.

Thankfully, it was Li Wan and her driver.

“How is Qianrou?”

“Not good, let’s get her out of here.”

With the driver’s help, Qin Qianrou was quickly transferred to Li Wan’s car.

They closed the door and headed straight to the hospital.

“What happened?”

Shen Yiqiu held Qin Qianrou close, gently smoothing her hair, staring at her closed eyes.

Qin Qianrou occasionally regained consciousness briefly, then drifted back to sleep; this was clearly not normal.

“I don’t know.” Shen Yiqiu’s voice was hoarse and strained.

Having rushed over, she hadn’t even had a chance to drink any water. Her throat ached with every word, but this pain was nothing compared to the ache in her heart.

Li Wan, sitting in the passenger seat, turned and looked at Shen Yiqiu and Qin Qianrou in the back.

Qin Qianrou, usually so strong and capable, seemingly invincible, now leaned against Shen Yiqiu, weak and helpless, oblivious to her surroundings. And Shen Yiqiu, usually so gentle and cheerful, was now supporting Qin Qianrou, her young shoulders bearing the weight of her hope.

For the first time, Li Wan saw a strength and a calmness in Shen Yiqiu’s youthful face that reassured her.

Li Wan’s car had barely arrived at the hospital when doctors and nurses, alerted during their journey, rushed out to meet them.

They rarely came to this private hospital, but they still had connections, and the doctor, being an acquaintance of Rong Fei’s, had naturally taken Li Wan’s call seriously.

“Don’t worry, we’ll take care of her.” The nurses wheeled Qin Qianrou away, and the doctor gently patted Li Wan’s shoulder, offering Shen Yiqiu a reassuring look.

Before leaving, he glanced at Shen Yiqiu’s hand and asked, “Does your hand need to be treated?”

Shen Yiqiu, only now having the time to look at her own hand, quickly shook her head, refusing. “No, it’s not injured.”

Seeing her insistence, the doctor didn’t press further and hurried away.

“Let’s wait over there, don’t worry.” Li Wan’s voice still trembled slightly; it had been a while since she had felt so frantic.

Shen Yiqiu took off her backpack and her down jacket, finally realizing how uncomfortable she felt. But she had no time to worry about that, her gaze constantly drifting towards the direction the nurses had taken Qin Qianrou.

“Now that we’re at the hospital, don’t worry too much, she’s safe here.”

Shen Yiqiu nodded, she believed that. But she was still shaken, the lingering fear of almost losing Jiejie clinging to her.

“Go wash your hands first.” Li Wan couldn’t bear to look at the bloodstains on Shen Yiqiu’s hand.

“I’ll be right back.”

Shen Yiqiu not only needed to clean the bloodstains, but also to wash her face and clear her head, she had been running on pure adrenaline, she needed a moment to breathe.

Looking at her reflection in the mirror, the same face, but the lingering fear was still evident. She didn’t even dare to recall the panic she had felt before finding Qin Qianrou.

At that moment, she had been truly terrified, afraid she had been too late.

After washing her face and her hands, she returned to the waiting area, and Li Wan handed her a cup of hot milk tea.

“Drink some.”

“Thank you, Sister Li Wan.” Shen Yiqiu leaned against the wall, her legs still trembling slightly.

“This whole incident was truly terrifying.”

Shen Yiqiu didn’t respond, taking a sip of the milk tea, her throat feeling a little better.

“The Xinting Hotel, and the room number, you sensed all that?” Li Wan finally voiced her question, she hadn’t had time to think about it earlier, but now, it seemed truly incredible.

“Mm.”

“Then… could you sense who did this to Qianrou?”

Shen Yiqiu frowned, shaking her head in frustration.

“I couldn’t.” If she could, she wouldn’t be sitting here waiting, she would have gone after them already.

Whoever dared to harm her Jiejie, she would fight them to the death!

Li Wan was also disappointed, but then, she thought, it was already a fortunate outcome.

“The nurse just told us her condition is stable, no life-threatening injuries, she said we shouldn’t worry too much.”

Hearing this, Shen Yiqiu’s spirits lifted slightly.

But she was still worried, as long as Jiejie wasn’t fully recovered, she wouldn’t be at ease.

“I need to inform her family. I promised to take care of her in Meng City, this is my responsibility.”

With that, Li Wan called Wen Shao Ze, then, after a moment of thought, called Wen Yirong as well.

Before calling Wen Yirong, Li Wan glanced at Shen Yiqiu, seeing no particular reaction, she stepped aside and made the call.

After briefly explaining the situation, she ended the call.

Li Wan returned and said carefully, “Qianrou’s family is on their way.”

Shen Yiqiu simply acknowledged with a quiet “Mm.”

Li Wan looked at her again, seeing her lost in thought, seemingly indifferent to the news.

“Qianrou’s mother is coming.”

“I know, I’ve met Aunt Wen before.” Shen Yiqiu assumed Li Wan was worried about their encounter.

Li Wan was indeed worried, but seeing Shen Yiqiu’s current state, she couldn’t bring herself to say anything more.

They would just have to wait and see, perhaps even with Aunt Wen’s arrival, they wouldn’t take Qianrou back to Hai City.

“That’s good, you’ll have to meet them eventually anyway.” Li Wan changed her tack.

The doctor had been thorough, conducting a full examination before transferring Qin Qianrou to a ward.

“Doctor, how is she?”

“Her condition is stable for now, but she was injected with an unknown substance, we’re still waiting for the lab results.”

“An unknown substance?”

Seeing their worried expressions, the doctor reassured them, “Her vital signs are stable, and there’s not much of the substance remaining in her system, it should be metabolized naturally.”

Li Wan, however, was still uneasy, recalling Shen Yiqiu’s description of Qin Qianrou lying in bed, wearing only a shirt, which wasn’t like her,

Qin Qianrou rarely slept before nightfall, and even if she needed a nap, in a hotel room, she wouldn’t just be wearing a shirt.

She hesitated, then asked, “Doctor, what are the effects of this unknown substance? What kind of reaction would it cause?”

The doctor, seeing their worried expressions, guessed their suspicions.

“It’s mainly a sedative, it would induce a deep coma within a short period, followed by prolonged unconsciousness.”

“Just that?”

“For now, yes.”

“That’s good.” Li Wan was slightly relieved, it was better than the scenarios she had been imagining.

“You can visit the patient later, but don’t stay too long.”

The doctor left again, Shen Yiqiu hadn’t asked anything, but Li Wan had voiced her concerns.

“Shen Yiqiu, you said you sensed a man…”

Li Wan’s tone was slightly awkward, even though it hadn’t happened, just imagining it was upsetting, Qin Qianrou was such a proud person, if she had been taken advantage of while unconscious, even if she appeared strong on the surface, it would leave lasting emotional scars.

“I don’t know why, but on my way to the Xinting Hotel, I kept seeing the same image repeatedly.” Shen Yiqiu, finally feeling a little more at ease, was willing to recall the details.

“I saw Jiejie, her eyes closed, being helped into the room, then the image kept repeating, like a broken record.”

A broken record? Li Wan also found it difficult to understand.

“I was so anxious, my nose started bleeding, I didn’t even realize it, my phone was covered in blood.”

Li Wan looked at her, hearing her casual tone, then, recalling the bloodstains on her hand, her heart ached.

“Why is your lip bleeding too?”

“I bit it, probably contributed to the bloodstains as well.” She had felt a burning pain when drinking the milk tea, but it hadn’t been unbearable.

“So you only sensed the room number later?”

“Yes, I almost thought I would have to search the entire hotel, but as soon as I entered the lobby, I had another premonition.”

Li Wan still found it incredible, but it had truly happened, perhaps such supernatural abilities did exist, simply beyond current scientific understanding.

“Thankfully you were there, otherwise, I don’t know what we would have done today.”

**

Li Wan didn’t stay long in the ward, leaving after confirming Qin Qianrou’s condition was stable. Shen Yiqiu stayed at the hospital, keeping her company. Qin Qianrou was still sleeping peacefully, and Shen Yiqiu pulled a chair over to the bedside, gently holding her hand.

“Jiejie, don’t sleep for too long, sleeping in a hospital bed isn’t a pleasant experience. If you’re tired, we can go home and rest, okay?”

Qin Qianrou didn’t respond, and if not for the doctor’s reassurance that it was just the effects of the sedative, Shen Yiqiu would have been truly worried that Jiejie wouldn’t wake up again.

“I was so scared, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to find you, afraid you would be hurt, afraid our relationship would be affected. I was also afraid I wasn’t capable enough to save you, afraid I was too slow, too stupid, to find you.”

Shen Yiqiu’s words tumbled out, her earlier panic and fear resurfacing, she had forced herself to stay calm and composed, and only now, in the safety of Qin Qianrou’s ward, did she allow herself to show her vulnerability.

“Jiejie, please punish me when you wake up, I’ll accept any punishment.” Shen Yiqiu held Qin Qianrou’s hand against her cheek, her hand slightly cold, and she tried to warm it with her own body heat.

“So please, wake up soon.”

Qin Qianrou, sleeping peacefully, looked beautiful, her face slightly paler than when she was nestled in Shen Yiqiu’s arms, but still… her.

Shen Yiqiu held her hand tightly, tears suddenly streaming down her face.

“It’s my fault, I should have been with you, protecting you…” Shen Yiqiu lowered her head, burying her face in the blanket, sobbing softly.

She didn’t know how to release the pent-up fear and anxiety. Earlier, while waiting for the test results, she had realized the only person she could contact was Yuan Qi.

So, in this world, the only people closest to her now were Qin Qianrou and her cousin.

Shen Yiqiu didn’t want to experience the pain of losing another loved one again, she just wanted Qin Qianrou to be safe and sound, she even wondered if it was her insistence on bringing down Shao Qidong that had caused this.

Jiejie, it’s all my fault.

**

Yuan Qi had already booked his flight, planning to leave Meng City next week. Ever since their dinner, where he had mentioned his plans to Shen Yiqiu, he had been preparing for his departure, having minimal contact with her.

Today, receiving her message, he had rushed over immediately.

Following the nurse’s directions, Yuan Qi headed towards the ward, and he unexpectedly saw a familiar figure in the hallway.

The person was walking ahead of him, also seemingly on their way to visit someone.

Yuan Qi instinctively slowed down, wondering if he should come back another time.

But the person ahead suddenly stopped and turned around, as if sensing his presence. In the empty hallway, the two of them stood facing each other, neither of them speaking.

Yuan Qi imagined sparks flying, a dramatic confrontation, but his feet felt heavy, as if rooted to the spot.

Wen Shao Ze walked towards him, and Yuan Qi’s brow furrowed.

Only when Wen Shao Ze was almost upon him did Yuan Qi snap back to reality. He backed away, almost turning to flee, when a voice stopped him.

“A-Yuan, don’t go.”

Yuan Qi’s mind went blank, he hadn’t heard that nickname in a long time. During his travels around the world, others had called him that, but none of them had evoked this… feeling.

Even after so many years, hearing his voice again brought back a flood of memories.

“Mr. Wen, it’s been a while.”

Wen Shao Ze smiled wryly, he still longed for A-Yuan, but A-Yuan only called him “Mr. Wen.”

But it was better than their last encounter years ago, when the term A-Yuan had used for him was “bastard.”

“Are you here for Shen Yiqiu?”

Yuan Qi nodded, then explained, “Xiao Qiu messaged me, I’m here to visit Qianrou.”

Wen Shao Ze suppressed his joy, he had been searching for A-Yuan in Meng City for so long, silently waiting, and he hadn’t expected their reunion to be here, in this place.

“Let’s go see Qianrou first.” Wen Shao Ze remembered the matter at hand and knew that only this excuse could prevent Yuan Qi from leaving immediately.

Shen Yiqiu was surprised to see them both appearing in the ward at the same time.

“Cousin, Shao Ze-ge, why are you here together?”

Both Yuan Qi and Wen Shao Ze’s faces twitched slightly, but Shen Yiqiu had no time to pay attention to that.

“We ran into each other in the hallway, so we came in together.” Yuan Qi walked over to the bedside and glanced at Qin Qianrou.

“Is she doing okay?”

Shen Yiqiu carefully tucked Qin Qianrou’s hand back under the covers and softly said, “The doctor said she’s fine, she just needs a few more days of rest.”

Wen Shao Ze, standing on the other side, watched them silently for a while, then suddenly exclaimed, “I’m going to tear that bastard apart!”

Chapter 78

Qin Qianrou offered some comforting words, repeatedly assuring her she would be extra careful, which eased Shen Yiqiu’s worries slightly. However, the toast in her hand became difficult to swallow, her heart heavy with a nameless dread, but she didn’t want to burden Qin Qianrou further.

Qin Qianrou had been staying home most of the time these past two days, Li Wan occasionally visiting, and they would chat for a while. Shen Yiqiu could sense that Jiejie wasn’t as calm as she appeared.

She must be worried about Lin Shuangzhi. Ever since their weekend visit, the tension in Qin Qianrou’s expression hadn’t eased. Thinking this, Shen Yiqiu’s movements slowed down, and she was fifteen minutes later than usual finishing her morning routine.

Qin Qianrou brought her bag from her room. “I’ll drive you to school today.”

“I can take the bus, I don’t have class first period, I usually go to the library anyway.”

“The weather is bad today, it’ll be cold waiting for the bus.”

Shen Yiqiu smiled, took her bag from Qin Qianrou, and glanced out the window. The gloomy sky confirmed it wasn’t a good day to be outside.

“Aren’t you meeting Sister Li Wan today, to gather information? Get some more rest, I don’t want you to overwork yourself.” With that, Shen Yiqiu quickly kissed Qin Qianrou’s cheek.

She grabbed her bag, went to the door, put on her coat, changed her shoes, then turned to look at Qin Qianrou.

“Then I’ll pick you up after school.”

“Okay, I’ll be waiting.”

Shen Yiqiu glanced at the time, realizing she was late, gave Qin Qianrou another quick kiss, and hurried out. Qin Qianrou stood by the door, watching until she entered the elevator, before returning to the apartment.

The apartment was still warm, but without Shen Yiqiu, it felt strangely empty, as if half the air had been sucked out.

**

Qin Qianrou met Li Wan at a nondescript but cozy café. Taking off her sunglasses, she walked over to where Li Wan, knowing her preferences, had already ordered their drinks.

“Have a drink first, it’s not time yet.”

Qin Qianrou sat down opposite her. The small table brought them close together.

“How is the team leader doing?”

Li Wan sighed softly. “She’s okay for now, but she hasn’t met with the relevant officials yet.”

Qin Qianrou nodded; at this stage, a day or two wouldn’t make a difference. Provincial officials were always busy, and as long as they weren’t deliberately avoiding her, a few more days, a few more trips, were perfectly normal.

Qin Qianrou’s coffee arrived, and she stirred it gently, taking a sip. “Is the information reliable?”

“It’s from an anonymous source, but it seems promising.”

Li Wan had received an anonymous call yesterday, offering “incriminating evidence” against some of the television station’s executives but stating they only trusted the Special Projects Team. The caller had specifically requested to meet with the team leader, but since Lin Shuangzhi wasn’t available, Li Wan had taken on the task.

“We still have to be cautious, with so many things happening at the same time, it’s hard to say what might happen.”

Li Wan looked at Qin Qianrou, slightly surprised. In their years of working together, chasing news stories, encountering all sorts of strange characters, and often facing danger, she had never seen Qin Qianrou so cautious.

“Now that you have a family, you’re finally learning to be careful?”

Li Wan’s teasing words were laced with a hint of envy. Having someone to care about, that was nice.

“Shen Yiqiu told me she had a premonition today.”

“A premonition? That we’re in danger?” Li Wan wasn’t very familiar with Shen Yiqiu’s ability, but having experienced it once or twice, she didn’t completely dismiss it either.

Qin Qianrou’s expression turned serious, her brow slightly furrowed. “She said it’s related to me.”

She paused, then, after a moment of hesitation, glancing at Li Wan, said, “Perhaps I should go alone today.”

Li Wan immediately understood her intention and felt a surge of anger, her voice rising slightly. “Qianrou, that’s not fair, we agreed to face this together, and now you want to go alone? Regardless of the potential danger, even if it’s your safety at risk, how can I just stand by and watch?”

Although Li Wan had a fiery temper, she wasn’t unreasonable. She hadn’t spoken so passionately in a long time; she was truly worried.

“Xiao Wan, don’t be upset, I just don’t want both of us to be in danger, at least this way, there’s still a backup.”

Li Wan still refused, “I don’t agree, I won’t let you go alone.”

Qin Qianrou knew she couldn’t dissuade her, so she sighed. She would have made the same choice if their roles were reversed.

After finishing their coffee and a small cake, it was almost time for their meeting.

Li Wan thought for a moment, then said, “Let’s take my car.”

Qin Qianrou had parked her car in the underground parking lot of a nearby mall, not far from Meng Da. She considered it and agreed.

After driving for about twenty minutes, Li Wan parked by the roadside, waiting for the caller’s instructions. According to their agreement yesterday, the person should appear in five minutes.

However, no one showed up, then Li Wan’s phone rang.

“I’ve sent you a new address, come here.”

Li Wan, however, said, “We agreed to meet here, changing the location at the last minute, do you not trust us, or do you not trust yourself?”

The caller didn’t offer any explanations, their voice calm and flat. “I need to ensure my own safety, I won’t reveal any information unless my safety is guaranteed.”

Li Wan was both angry and helpless.

This wasn’t the first time they had encountered such a situation. Many whistleblowers had complex psychological states; they often didn’t have concrete evidence, but they did possess relevant materials, and they were all reluctant to contact the authorities directly, afraid of being exposed or implicated.

“What, another change of location?” Qin Qianrou was no stranger to this.

Li Wan showed her the address; it was quite far from their current location.

“Let’s go, what other choice do we have?”

Li Wan started typing on her phone, and Qin Qianrou knew this was their standard procedure. They would set up a timed email, to be automatically sent to a designated contact if anything happened to them.

Such emails usually contained details of their itinerary, who they were meeting, the location, etc. However, they wouldn’t send these emails unless absolutely necessary.

After all, reporters relied on their reputation for discretion, if they weren’t trustworthy, many wouldn’t choose to contact them.

Qin Qianrou watched as Li Wan copied the email and set up another one under Qin Qianrou’s name, then, after a moment of thought, decided to message Shen Yiqiu.

[Xiao Wan and I are on an assignment, meeting an informant. The location is quite far from Meng Da, if I can’t pick you up after school, don’t wait for me, go straight home.]

Shen Yiqiu should be in class now, there was no immediate reply.

Li Wan started the car, her expression more serious than before.

“What, reporting to your family now?”

“I promised to pick her up after school, I’m afraid we’ll be back late, and she’ll be waiting outside for too long.”

Li Wan, picturing Shen Yiqiu waiting patiently in the cold, couldn’t help but chuckle. “Your little one, with her stubbornness, would definitely wait there for you.”

Qin Qianrou glanced at her, and Li Wan’s laughter subsided.

“Being stubborn isn’t a bad thing, at least she’s devoted to you, her feelings won’t change easily.”

Qin Qianrou was perfect in every way, except in matters of the heart, she was incredibly stubborn. Either she didn’t love, or she loved completely. Li Wan knew her well, although she appeared calm and indifferent, as if it was just an ordinary relationship,

She cared deeply about Shen Yiqiu, so tolerant and accommodating, willing to put aside all her reservations and accept her feelings, such courage could only stem from deep love.

As they approached their destination, Shen Yiqiu’s reply finally arrived.

[I was in class just now. Are you going somewhere far? Just the two of you? Be careful, call me anytime.]

[We’re almost there, don’t worry.]

After sending the message, Qin Qianrou and Li Wan got out of the car.

It was an abandoned factory, a former branch of the steel mill on the outskirts of the city. After years of restructuring, the land had reportedly been auctioned off several times but remained vacant.

“It’s been a while since we last came here, it’s even more desolate now.”

Li Wan and Qin Qianrou had been here before, shortly after graduating, accompanying their senior colleagues on an assignment. The laid-off steelworkers had been demanding solutions to their unemployment, their pleas ignored, and a group of them had gathered here, first staging a hunger strike, then resorting to self-harm.

More importantly, they had publicized their actions beforehand, and many onlookers, including some foreign media with dubious intentions, had been present. The situation had escalated, and the scene had been chaotic and dangerous. As interns, they hadn’t been allowed near the main action, only assisting their seniors from the sidelines.

But this experience had been a powerful lesson, and after returning to the station, as they worked on the related program, learning more about the situation, they discovered that during the restructuring process, the steel mill management, to quickly meet the government-mandated targets, had used deceptive and oppressive tactics against the workers.

On the one hand, urging them to complete the procedures quickly, on the other hand, reducing their compensation by claiming they had voluntarily resigned. As a result, the workers, who had dedicated years of their lives to the steel mill, were left with meager compensation, their lives thrown into turmoil.

This incident had left a deep impression on them, if they had discovered the problem earlier, exposed the injustice during the restructuring process, perhaps the tragedy could have been avoided. This strengthened their resolve to uncover the truth, to bring it to light as soon as possible, to prevent further tragedies.

The phone rang, and following the caller’s instructions, Li Wan entered the factory.

The air inside was damp and filled with strange, unpleasant odors, but it was relatively bright. They stopped, and footsteps approached from the distance.

The caller had been a man, but the person walking towards them now was a woman.

As the footsteps drew closer, Li Wan squinted, finally recognizing the person.

Both she and Qin Qianrou were stunned, they knew this person.

“Director Jian?”

Li Wan was still in shock, she had just greeted this person in the elevator a few days ago, she had said she was taking a long vacation, going to Australia to visit her son and daughter-in-law.

“Surprised to see me here?”

Although Qin Qianrou didn’t speak, her surprise was evident.

Jian Shan was the deputy director of the finance department, her seniority similar to Director Yu from the advertising department, they had joined the station around the same time. It was said they were even university classmates, although their interactions at the station had been limited.

“Why are you…?”

Jian Shan smiled faintly, then said frankly, “I can’t stand Director Yu being promoted, and I certainly can’t let Deputy Director Ding become the station director.”

Li Wan and Qin Qianrou exchanged glances, understanding dawned, it seemed someone was dissatisfied with the personnel changes, someone whose own interests had been overlooked.

“You think I’m jealous, trying to sabotage them?”

Their silence was a tacit agreement.

Jian Shan didn’t seem offended, shaking her head, “If I truly wanted a leadership position, I wouldn’t still be a deputy director after all these years. I just want to do my job properly, then retire and go live with my son abroad.”

This was indeed Director Jian’s wish, she had always been unassuming, meticulously managing the station’s finances, the financial data under her supervision reportedly never having any errors. During casual conversations with colleagues, her greatest aspiration had always been a peaceful retirement.

“Director Yu and Deputy Director Ding have been accepting bribes from Dongsheng Group, small favors before, but this time, with the restructuring, Dongsheng offered a substantial sum, and naturally, they had to reciprocate.”

So it was true, the team leader’s suspicions hadn’t been unfounded.

Their hearts sank, this was why they had to stop these promotions.

Jian Shan stepped closer to them, “I’ve always kept my distance from them, they used to try to get me to approve their questionable expenses, but I’m strict and uncompromising, so they could only go to the director. But with the restructuring, and the director about to retire, there’s no one else in the finance department besides me, so they targeted me.”

The finance department was different from other departments, it was difficult to find a qualified replacement from outside the station in a short time, Jian Shan was the best candidate, but she had refused to cooperate with them.

“As a financial professional, I know the severity of turning illegal invoices and expenses into legal income. I don’t want to be implicated, I don’t want to become that kind of person, so this is my only option.”

Jian Shan’s words eased their suspicions slightly, it seemed that even a financial director, after years at the television station, had learned the art of veiled communication.

“I have some evidence of the bribes Director Yu and Deputy Director Ding have accepted over the years, they initially approached me to sign off on them, I refused, but I kept copies.”

Hearing this, both Qin Qianrou and Li Wan were naturally delighted.

“However, there’s something strange about Dongsheng’s recent large advertising investment, they didn’t follow the usual procedures, but changed their payment method. I’ve seen the revised contract, I have to say, Dongsheng’s financial capabilities have improved.”

“How so?”

Jian Shan recalled, “Dongsheng’s advertising fees are now divided into three installments, gradually increasing, and each installment has a performance target. These targets aren’t difficult to achieve, but their approach to expense reimbursement is different. I think they must have a new financial team, this method is quite common overseas, not only for tax evasion, but also for laundering money.”

Li Wan immediately thought of Zhuo Cheng.

He was talented, often praised by his professors for his unique insights during his university years, and Li Wan had always encouraged him, believing he had a bright future.

She hadn’t been wrong, Zhuo Cheng was capable, but his character was flawed, and he was using his abilities for the wrong purposes.

“But no matter how sophisticated their methods, they’re still outsiders. I’ve worked at this station for decades, who knows the situation better than I do?”

Jian Shan was a cautious and level-headed person, always maintaining a professional distance, not one for office politics, focused solely on her work, but that didn’t mean she was oblivious to the station’s internal dynamics, she knew who the truly capable and upright people were.

That was why she had chosen the Special Projects Team. She had intended to meet Lin Shuangzhi, but since it was Li Wan and Qin Qianrou who had come, she wasn’t disappointed.

These two were also known for their integrity, unmoved by money or power.

“My request is simple, keep my involvement confidential. The information I’m providing is just to point you in the right direction, you have to investigate the rest yourselves. I’m about to retire; I don’t want any trouble at this stage.”

Jian Shan, after all, was just an ordinary person. She adhered to her professional ethics, unwilling to be complicit in Director Yu and Deputy Director Ding’s corruption, but she didn’t have the same ideals and ambitions as Li Wan and Qin Qianrou.

She just wanted a peaceful and ordinary life.

**

On their way back, the atmosphere in the car was heavy, no one spoke for over ten minutes.

Li Wan finally broke the silence. “I didn’t expect such complex relationships within the station.”

Qin Qianrou, staring out the window, seemed lost in thought.

The recent series of events, besides angering her, also filled her with disappointment.

“Xiao Wan, don’t you think we’ve been blinded by a facade all along?”

Li Wan sighed, how could she not?

Qin Qianrou looked at the gloomy sky outside, her mood sinking. “We’ve been striving to uncover the truth, but the environment we’re in is a lie itself.”

How ironic. A bitter, self-deprecating smile touched Qin Qianrou’s lips.

“It’s disgusting, but at least there’s still a glimmer of hope, at least we’re still trustworthy.”

Hearing the anger in Li Wan’s voice, Qin Qianrou smiled faintly.

Good friends, always on the same wavelength, understanding each other’s thoughts, such a connection was precious.

Glancing at the time, there was still time before school ended, Qin Qianrou decided to go back to the apartment, get her car, and then pick Shen Yiqiu up.

She messaged Shen Yiqiu that she was on her way back, then quickly discussed their next steps with Li Wan. Time was of the essence, and with Lin Shuangzhi unavailable, this task fell on them.

“Let’s have a video conference tonight, we need to plan this carefully.” Qin Qianrou made arrangements before getting out of the car.

Li Wan, following Jian Shan’s leads, returned to the station to look for evidence. Thankfully, she had said she had some urgent matters to attend to when she took leave, so her sudden return to the station wasn’t too unusual.

Shen Yiqiu had been waiting outside the university gate for ten minutes, but Qin Qianrou’s car hadn’t appeared yet. She had messaged twenty minutes ago, saying she was on her way, and it shouldn’t have taken this long.

Shen Yiqiu clutched her phone, afraid of calling and distracting Qin Qianrou while she was driving, Jiejie always focused intently on the road.

Zhang Meng, returning from an internship, saw Shen Yiqiu stamping her feet and rubbing her hands together, trying to stay warm, and chuckled.

“Waiting for someone? You seem very eager.”

“Senior, what a coincidence!”

“Not a coincidence, I saw you and came over to say hello.” Zhang Meng glanced around. “Waiting for Reporter Qin?”

She had heard from Shen Yiqiu that Reporter Qin was in Hai City for a training program and wouldn’t be back for a while.

“Yes, she’s back temporarily for some errands, just for a few days.”

Shen Yiqiu was about to continue when a sharp pain, even through her thick winter coat, shot through her chest.

Jiejie…

Without hesitation, Shen Yiqiu slung her backpack over her shoulder, strode to the roadside, and practically snatched a taxi from someone else.

“Leting Hotel, please!”

Shen Yiqiu called Li Wan, “Sister Li Wan, go to Leting Hotel immediately.”

Li Wan sensed the urgency in her voice and didn’t wait for an explanation, immediately setting off.

“Did something happen to Qianrou?”

“I had a premonition, we need to get to Leting Hotel as soon as possible!”

The traffic crawled along, and Shen Yiqiu was frantic. Leting Hotel was in the city center, and as soon as they exited the highway, they were stuck in endless congestion.

Shen Yiqiu paid the driver and got out of the taxi midway, running with all her might, oblivious to the stares of passersby. She just wanted her Jiejie to be safe, she just wanted to reach Qin Qianrou as quickly as possible.

 

Chapter 77 p2

Li Wan, seeing Qin Qianrou’s barely suppressed amusement, felt even more disheartened.

And the person who had made her feel so inadequate was that damned Lin Shuangzhi.

Next time, I’ll definitely make her pay!

Having opened up, she might as well be more frank.

Li Wan rested her chin on her hand and said softly, “We used to say ‘harmony’ is important, I now truly understand why. You and Shen Yiqiu have to communicate properly, otherwise you’ll suffer later.”

Although Qin Qianrou didn’t want to discuss this topic, Li Wan’s words resonated with her, and she couldn’t help but apply them to her own relationship with Shen Yiqiu, her cheeks flushing slightly.

They had been sleeping in the same bed these past few days, although they hadn’t gone all the way, the passionate kisses before bed had stirred her deeply. As their feelings deepened, her dependence on Shen Yiqiu had also grown stronger, only waking up in her arms did she truly feel at ease.

And the night before last, Shen Yiqiu’s hands, which had previously been unsure where to go, had seemed to gain a life of their own, exploring, seeking out the softest, most alluring parts of her body. They had embraced, kissed, their bodies pressed tightly together, their breaths mingling, their eyes, their hearts, filled with each other, their love overflowing, and a soft moan had escaped Qin Qianrou’s lips as Shen Yiqiu’s nimble fingers traced her curves.

**

Lin Shuangzhi also knew her performance that night had been less than ideal, which was why she had apologized so eagerly the next morning. The sounds that echoed in her ears weren’t just Li Wan’s enchanting moans that night, but also her pained cries.

Xiao Wan had said, It hurts.

She had wanted to talk to Li Wan properly, but she hadn’t found the opportunity. The Director Yu matter was urgent, and she had to make that difficult decision. Now, it was highly likely she would have to return to Yong City, and then they would be separated by distance.

She remembered Li Wan hated long-distance relationships. She had heard her say this shortly after graduating, after her breakup with her ex-boyfriend.

Lin Shuangzhi had thought they could be together, working side by side, she hadn’t expected such a different outcome so soon.

She blamed herself for being too impulsive that night, for losing control. She wanted to take responsibility for Li Wan, not just because of what had happened between them, but because of the feelings she had harbored since they first met, years ago.

But with the current situation deteriorating, Lin Shuangzhi had to suppress her long-hidden feelings.

**

Shen Yiqiu hadn’t seen Yuan Qi in a while. Since she told him she was officially with Qin Qianrou, besides a simple “Congratulations,” her cousin had practically vanished.

Thankfully, this was typical Yuan Qi behavior, disappearing without a word, his backpack always ready, so Shen Yiqiu wasn’t surprised. But today, after class, she unexpectedly saw him outside the university gate.

Yuan Qi was leaning against his car, smoking, the cold wind swirling around him, and he didn’t even seem to notice the cold?

Shen Yiqiu hurried over, waving her hand to dispel the smoke. “Cousin, what are you doing here?”

Yuan Qi, seeing her approach, quickly extinguished his cigarette. “I came to take you to dinner.”

Shen Yiqiu hesitated slightly, not immediately refusing.

Yuan Qi, seeing her reaction, immediately understood the reason. He carefully observed Shen Yiqiu, her complexion much better than before, the glow of love evident, it seemed this relationship was making her happy, at least for now.

He had said everything he could, offered all the advice he could, and since Shen Yiqiu had still chosen to be with Qin Qianrou, he had nothing more to say. Knowing Qin Qianrou, her level of commitment wouldn’t be any less than Shen Yiqiu’s.

Since they were both serious, then regardless of the outcome, there would be no regrets.

Just like him, all those years ago, he had experienced pain and heartbreak, but he had also loved deeply.

“Hurry up and call your Queen, ask for permission, tell her your cousin is treating you to dinner.”

At Yuan Qi’s teasing, Shen Yiqiu obediently took out her phone and called Qin Qianrou.

“Don’t drink, and come home early.” Qin Qianrou readily agreed.

Yuan Qi watched quietly from the side, a smile of relief on his lips.

Seeing Xiao Qiu’s current state, her happiness, he was truly relieved. And now, with Qin Qianrou looking after her, he was even more at ease. As for the Qin family, since Qin Qianrou had agreed to this relationship, she must have a plan.

With that, he had no more worries.

During dinner, Shen Yiqiu learned that her cousin was leaving again, she wasn’t surprised, but she was still a little reluctant.

“It’s almost Chinese New Year, and you’re still going away?”

Shen Yiqiu, unlike Yuan Qi, wasn’t a wanderer, in her mind, major holidays were meant to be spent with family, not traveling.

“Silly child, I haven’t properly celebrated Chinese New Year in years.”

During his countless days of wandering, Yuan Qi hadn’t paid much attention to holidays. His loneliness stemmed from a deep, unfillable void within him.

“So you should celebrate it properly this year!”

Shen Yiqiu thought, it was a rare opportunity for a reunion, why was her cousin in such a hurry to leave?

Yuan Qi hesitated, wanting to tell her he was leaving to avoid someone. Wen Shao Ze had been searching for him everywhere, he had almost found his apartment a few days ago, which had distressed him greatly. He had thought he could face him calmly, but he had overestimated himself.

He had rushed back because Shen Yiqiu had needed him, now, seeing that she was doing well, he realized his own heart hadn’t fully healed.

“I hope you’ll never experience this kind of helplessness, that you won’t have to wander like I did.”

Shen Yiqiu, all the way home, kept pondering the sadness in Yuan Qi’s eyes.

As she looked down to change her shoes, she noticed an extra pair of men’s leather shoes, they had a visitor.

“Shen Yiqiu, you’re back?”

Before Shen Yiqiu could even speak, Wen Shao Ze emerged from the living room.

“Shao Ze-ge, you’re here.”

“Yes, I came this afternoon, I was hoping to have dinner here, but it seems our chef went out for a feast.”

Wen Shao Ze seemed to be in a good mood, but seeing him, Shen Yiqiu couldn’t help but think of her cousin.

Tonight, she was enveloped in a melancholic farewell mood, her spirits low.

After she returned, Qin Qianrou subtly hinted a few times, and Wen Shao Ze obediently took his leave.

He did, however, gallantly invite them to dinner another time before leaving, which Qin Qianrou ignored, simply closing the door.

Shen Yiqiu leaned back against the sofa, still thinking about Yuan Qi’s words.

“What’s wrong tonight? Did your cousin tell you something upsetting?”

Looking at the person beside her, Shen Yiqiu finally revealed her true feelings.

“My cousin said he’s leaving, he won’t even be here for Chinese New Year.”

Although she hadn’t explicitly said it, Shen Yiqiu had been looking forward to spending the holidays with both her family and her lover this year.

Qin Qianrou put her arm around her, letting her lean against her, gently patting her back.

“He likes to travel, he wouldn’t be comfortable staying in one place for too long.”

“But I don’t think he’s leaving for travel this time. He doesn’t seem excited or anything, he just seems… resigned.”

Like he had no other choice, Shen Yiqiu could sense it.

Qin Qianrou’s heart sank, recalling Wen Shao Ze’s earlier certainty.

Hopefully, this time, they won’t miss each other again.

Shen Yiqiu’s melancholy lasted for two days, then gradually subsided. Waking up that morning, however, she felt a familiar, unsettling pain in her chest.

It had returned. Since that nightmare, the sensation had disappeared for a while, but now it was back.

She felt incredibly uneasy. During breakfast, she looked at Qin Qianrou several times, wanting to say something, but the words wouldn’t come out.

“What’s wrong?” Qin Qianrou spread peanut butter on a piece of toast and handed it to Shen Yiqiu.

“I… don’t feel well here.” Shen Yiqiu pointed to her chest.

Qin Qianrou’s smile faded as she followed her gesture.

The unspoken understanding between them had deepened, a single word, a single gesture from Shen Yiqiu, enough to convey her meaning.

“Is it the yellow tie again?”

Shen Yiqiu frowned and shook her head. “I don’t know, it just hurts, I didn’t see anything.”

Chapter 77 p1

The situation at the television station was more complicated than they had anticipated. After the weekend, Lin Shuangzhi, following their plan, went to the city government, making one last attempt. As expected, the officials in charge were evasive and noncommittal.

Lin Shuangzhi was furious, but she couldn’t show it. She was disappointed, and also, as she had expected, it was a disaster.

Leaving the city government building, a light drizzle had started. Winter rain, not at all romantic, only intensified the damp coldness, and Lin Shuangzhi, her hands in her pockets, glanced at the gloomy sky, her heart heavy.

Tomorrow, she would go to the provincial government. Hopefully, the weather would improve, and hopefully, there would be a turning point.

She walked forward numbly, then suddenly stopped. Li Wan, holding an umbrella, was standing in the distance, seemingly waiting for her.

Lin Shuangzhi slowly walked over. “Why are you here?”

“I was worried you might be upset, unable to drive.”

Li Wan’s attitude towards her had softened slightly since that day at her apartment, and she had even messaged her this morning. Lin Shuangzhi hadn’t expected her to come in person.

Lin Shuangzhi took the umbrella from her, tilting it slightly towards Li Wan as they walked side by side. “I’m not that fragile, I was prepared for this.”

“It seems there were no pleasant surprises.”

Lin Shuangzhi sighed, her voice filled with disappointment. “No, just as I expected.”

Li Wan’s heart ached, knowing Lin Shuangzhi was going to the provincial government tomorrow.

“Don’t worry, it’s not a big deal, just a few more trips, it’s not like you’ll lose an arm or a leg.”

Li Wan bit her lip, avoiding Lin Shuangzhi’s gaze, quickening her pace, and stepping out from under the umbrella.

Lin Shuangzhi was taken aback, unsure why she was suddenly angry, but afraid she might catch a cold in the rain, she hurried after her, holding the umbrella over her.

“Xiao Wan, wait for me, it’s raining harder now, don’t catch a cold.”

“Are you… concerned about me?”

Lin Shuangzhi nodded. “Yes.”

“Then I’m also concerned about you, but you don’t seem to care at all.”

Lin Shuangzhi thought for a moment, realizing she was referring to her earlier comment about “not losing an arm or a leg.”

“It was just a figure of speech, don’t take it literally.”

Li Wan, however, ignored her and said softly, “You think these things won’t happen, but you don’t know how ruthless those people can be. Haven’t you seen the news reports over the years? Those who persist in seeking justice, how many of them haven’t suffered?”

Both she and Lin Shuangzhi were experienced professionals at the television station, having handled many sensitive stories, some unsuitable for broadcast, but they were both aware of the dark underbelly of society.

“I won’t let anything happen to me.” Lin Shuangzhi’s tone was serious, no longer pretending to be nonchalant.

Li Wan sighed helplessly, she couldn’t do anything more.

“I hope you can keep your word.”

Qin Qianrou, after learning about the situation, decided to extend her leave by two days, which meant more time in Meng City. However, she actually spent less time with Shen Yiqiu, which Shen Yiqiu understood and fully supported.

Wen Yirong had asked Qin Qianrou if she needed any help from the family. Qin Qianrou hesitated, then decided against involving them for now. Her grandfather’s health wasn’t good, and knowing about this would only worry him further.

Wen Shao Ze had called her a few times, but some things couldn’t be discussed over the phone.

“Qianrou, I’m going to Meng City tomorrow, there’s been some progress with the information you asked me to look into.”

“Okay.”

After saying this, Wen Shao Ze seemed hesitant to end the call.

“Anything else?”

“That… I’ve decided to talk to him.”

Qin Qianrou immediately knew who he was referring to, she hadn’t contacted Yuan Qi since learning about his relationship with Shen Yiqiu.

“Have you thought this through?”

Wen Shao Ze paused, then said firmly, “I have, instead of waiting in the shadows, it’s better to face him directly.”

“Since you’ve made up your mind, then I wish you all the best.”

The matter between Yuan Qi and Wen Shao Ze was complicated, a history spanning many years, and they hadn’t been in contact during that time. Yuan Qi’s current feelings were unknown.

Qin Qianrou had probed, and it seemed Shen Yiqiu didn’t know about the relationship between Yuan Qi and Wen Shao Ze, she had even been vague about her own relationship with Yuan Qi. Qin Qianrou decided not to bring up their past, respecting Yuan Qi’s decision.

If he wanted to talk about it, he would tell Shen Yiqiu himself.

Qin Qianrou had taken a week’s leave to stay in Meng City, but she hadn’t gone to the television station, and even Li Wan had taken two days off. With the major personnel changes underway, apart from the regular programs, everything else was practically at a standstill, and many people weren’t focused on their work.

Li Wan, hugging a pillow, sat on Qin Qianrou’s sofa.

“I offered to go with her today, but she refused, I don’t know why she’s being so stubborn!”

Qin Qianrou took a sip of tea, “You going with her wouldn’t have helped, she doesn’t want you there, she doesn’t want to involve you.”

“If she gets into trouble, how can I just stand by and do nothing? I’ve already prepared myself, if nothing else works, I’ll ask my father to intervene.”

Qin Qianrou wasn’t surprised, it was Li Wan’s unusual calmness these past two days that was more concerning.

“What, is your relationship better now?”

Li Wan, preoccupied with Lin Shuangzhi’s situation, didn’t think before blurting out, “Not really.”

Then, realizing what she had just said, she quickly added, trying to cover it up, “It wasn’t that bad before either, pretty much the same as always.”

The more she tried to explain, the more suspicious it seemed.

“Did something happen while I was away?”

Li Wan’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she avoided her friend’s gaze, her chin resting on the soft pillow. Qin Qianrou, seeing her shyness, was lost in thought.

She had sensed the strange tension between Li Wan and the team leader but couldn’t figure out what had happened, now it seemed it wasn’t as simple as she had thought.

Li Wan gathered her courage and looked up, “The team leader and I… slept together.”

A crack appeared in Qin Qianrou’s usually calm and composed facade, she hadn’t expected this.

Li Wan looked away uncomfortably, her gaze fixed on a potted plant in the distance.

“Don’t ask me why, I don’t know why either, perhaps the moon was too beautiful that night, the night was too enchanting, I wasn’t myself.”

Qin Qianrou gently placed her hand on Li Wan’s, not asking any further questions.

They had been friends for many years, and although Li Wan was usually boisterous, bold, and proactive, when it came to relationships, she was serious and cautious.

Even during her university years, deeply in love, her relationship with Zhuo Cheng hadn’t gone beyond kissing, he had made advances, but Li Wan had always held firm to her boundaries.

Thankfully, Zhuo Cheng had respected her decision and hadn’t pressured her further. Qin Qianrou hadn’t expected Li Wan and the team leader, their relationship still undefined, to have taken such a significant step.

“Are you surprised?” Li Wan didn’t sound triumphant at all, her tone hesitant. “Even I find it unbelievable, but it just… happened.”

“The team leader, she also… likes women?”

Li Wan shook her head. “I don’t know, she hasn’t said anything.”

Qin Qianrou looked at her, puzzled. “Then what’s your current situation…?”

“Our current situation? Same as always. Just slept together once, nothing’s changed.”

Li Wan’s tone was casual, as if she didn’t care, but Qin Qianrou could clearly see the concern and disappointment hidden within.

“After this matter at the station is resolved, find a chance to talk to the team leader, I don’t think she’s a casual person.”

Although she didn’t understand why Lin Shuangzhi would suddenly take such a step with Li Wan, after years of working together, Qin Qianrou didn’t think the team leader was frivolous.

“I thought so too, but it might be difficult now.”

“Why?”

Li Wan shifted the pillow in her arms and said worriedly, “That day, she also told me, if she loses her position at the station, she’ll just go home and inherit the family business.”

Qin Qianrou hadn’t known about Lin Shuangzhi’s background before, the team leader rarely mentioned her family, she rarely even talked about her hometown, Yong City.

“I only realized that day how little I actually know about her.”

Qin Qianrou thought that if the team leader really went home, they would be separated by distance.

“Although Yong City is a bit far, transportation isn’t a problem, and besides, the situation might not be that dire. If you want to protect her, you can.”

Simply preventing her from being promoted, keeping her in her current position, Li Wan could probably manage that.

Li Wan sighed again. “She’s incredibly stubborn, she refuses to let me help.”

Qin Qianrou understood; Lin Shuangzhi wanted to handle this alone, she didn’t want to implicate Li Wan.

“That’s just how she is.”

Li Wan had initially been angry, but after thinking about it, she understood her intentions.

“She’s so foolish, wanting to protect me, can’t she understand my feelings?”

You want to protect me, but don’t you think I care about you too?

Li Wan wanted to knock some sense into Lin Shuangzhi.

Qin Qianrou didn’t have much experience offering relationship advice, all she could do was listen.

“By the way, how are things with Shen Yiqiu? Have you… slept together yet?”

With Shen Yiqiu at school, and just the two of them at home, Li Wan was less guarded in her speech.

Qin Qianrou glared at her, not answering.

“So you haven’t.”

Li Wan took a sip of tea, clearing her throat, as if preparing for a speech.

“Qianrou, listen to my advice, as someone with experience, if you’re planning on… doing it, you absolutely have to be prepared.”

Qin Qianrou wasn’t interested in this topic, but Li Wan was speaking so earnestly, she couldn’t rudely interrupt her.

“Firstly, you have to remind Shen Yiqiu to trim her nails. Secondly, take it slow, don’t rush, don’t just… fumble around cluelessly. And lastly, absolutely remember, aftercare is crucial, you have to comfort her.”

Qin Qianrou didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, they had discussed such things before, but applied to herself, it still felt strange.

But Li Wan’s serious tone, her increasing fervor, made Qin Qianrou realize this was probably a lesson learned from personal experience.

“It seems your experience wasn’t very pleasant.”

“It was a disaster.” Li Wan thought that if it weren’t for the alcohol that night, she would have kicked Lin Shuangzhi out of bed.

She had thought, even if not a pro, at least she would be somewhat experienced, who knew she wasn’t even a beginner?

She sighed, she had been a blank slate, and encountering a complete novice, she didn’t know whether it was fortunate or unfortunate.

“Take it slow, practice makes perfect.”

 

Chapter 76

Lunch was a feast. Shen Yiqiu had diligently prepared several home-style dishes that Li Wan had previously praised, the ingredients fresh, the cooking perfect. However, unlike before, Li Wan didn’t offer her usual detailed commentary.

It wasn’t because the food wasn’t good; on the contrary, it was exceptionally delicious today. But the topic of their discussion was too heavy, no one was in the mood for lighthearted banter. Shen Yiqiu, seeing their serious expressions, couldn’t help but worry.

But her abilities were limited, she couldn’t offer much help. She vaguely heard them talking about the station’s restructuring, seemingly related to Dongsheng Group. She had already told Qin Qianrou everything she knew about Shao Qidong.

However, that man was cunning and resourceful, his numerous businesses providing cover, without concrete evidence, there was no way to touch him. Qin Qianrou had already made inquiries with the Economic Investigation Brigade, and there were no promising leads.

She had thought He Chao’s imprisonment would serve as a warning to Shao Qidong, to make him more cautious, but villains never changed their ways, and he was now extending his reach to the television station. If things continued as they were, there would be no hope for Meng City Television’s programs in the future.

Shen Yiqiu’s thoughts drifted to the dark period of her past life. She hadn’t lived alone for long after her parents’ death, those two years as an orphan filled with torment and hardship, never a single day of peace or warmth, let alone the current reality of sitting in a bright, spacious, and comfortable apartment, enjoying a meal with the person she loved.

It felt like an unreal dream, yet it was truly happening. But now, because of Shao Qidong’s despicable actions, it seemed that dark period was about to return, how could she not worry?

Lost in thought, Shen Yiqiu also fell silent. The four of them sat at the dining table, the only sound the clinking of their chopsticks, the silence unsettling.

Qin Qianrou placed a spare rib in Shen Yiqiu’s bowl and softly said, “Don’t space out, eat your food.”

The team leader and Li Wan’s serious expressions were understandable, but there was no need for Shen Yiqiu to be worried as well. Qin Qianrou was afraid it would affect her health, but she couldn’t say too much in front of others.

Shen Yiqiu didn’t think much of it, put down her chopsticks, and started peeling shrimp. Soon, several peeled shrimp appeared in Qin Qianrou’s bowl.

“You eat too.” Shen Yiqiu pushed the small dish of soy sauce closer to Qin Qianrou and smiled at her.

Qin Qianrou enjoyed fish and shrimp, but the bones and shells were a hassle. Due to her work, she rarely had time for a proper meal. Since Shen Yiqiu arrived, such dishes had become more frequent.

But having someone peel shrimp for her, this was a first.

Qin Qianrou wasn’t a demanding person like some other girls, she wouldn’t make unreasonable requests to test her partner’s affection, but women in love all enjoyed being pampered and cherished, and although Shen Yiqiu’s gesture wasn’t unique, it still warmed her heart.

Since confirming their relationship, she found herself increasingly enamored with this child. Shen Yiqiu’s smallest actions could make her heart flutter, she wanted to reward her with a kiss, but she restrained herself.

Li Wan, observing their affectionate exchange, silently felt a pang of envy, but she didn’t tease them like she usually did.

Her lips curved into a bitter smile, a mix of self-pity and longing. Her longtime friend had finally found love, while she remained alone.

The excitement she had felt earlier was now replaced by a deep loneliness. Li Wan sighed inwardly and focused on her food. Lin Shuangzhi glanced at her a few times, but Li Wan didn’t react.

Either she hadn’t noticed, or she didn’t want to.

Lunch ended in a quiet atmosphere. Shen Yiqiu made them fresh tea and invited them to the living room to rest.

Watching her efficiently clearing the table, Li Wan couldn’t help but exclaim, “Qianrou, you’ve trained her well, your little one is truly capable now, completely independent.”

Qin Qianrou knew Li Wan was teasing her, but she still played along, “She’s truly amazing, the household practically runs on her now.”

“Tsk, tsk, in such a short time, you’ve been completely conquered. Don’t forget who’s the head of the household, don’t let her completely control you, otherwise, you’ll lose your dominance, you’ll be at her mercy.”

Qin Qianrou understood, but she didn’t care about dominance or control. In her mind, two people liking each other, living together, supporting each other, that was the meaning of life.

“This is also Shen Yiqiu’s home.”

Li Wan hadn’t expected Qin Qianrou’s acceptance of Shen Yiqiu to have reached this point. Then, she thought, it made sense, if Qin Qianrou wasn’t truly in love, if she didn’t intend to build a future with her, with her personality, she wouldn’t have entered such a relationship so readily.

Li Wan’s envy intensified.

Lin Shuangzhi had been quietly sipping her tea, not participating in their conversation, but they hadn’t deliberately excluded her either, which meant both Qin Qianrou and Li Wan trusted her.

Li Wan’s words echoed in Lin Shuangzhi’s mind, although she had been advising Qin Qianrou, Lin Shuangzhi could clearly hear her true feelings.

She also heard the loneliness and sadness in Li Wan’s voice, even a hint of… pain.

She thought, Perhaps Xiao Wan regrets it now, regrets going home with me that night.

Then, they continued discussing their strategy, and after two hours, they finally reached a preliminary agreement. Although not the ideal outcome, it was the most effective solution they could think of for now.

Li Wan, feeling tired, stood up to leave.

“Why don’t you stay for dinner?”

Li Wan smiled and pointed towards Shen Yiqiu’s room, “I can’t impose on your little one any further, one meal is enough.”

Shen Yiqiu, hearing they were about to leave, put down her book and emerged from her room. She overheard Li Wan’s polite words and quickly said, “It’s no trouble at all, there’s still plenty of food left from lunch.”

“Thank you, but I shouldn’t intrude on your precious time with Qianrou. She’s tired from her trip, you should take good care of her.”

Li Wan was leaving, and Lin Shuangzhi naturally wouldn’t stay behind. However, they stood in the elevator, silent, the atmosphere slightly awkward.

Reaching the first floor, they walked out of the building, one after the other. Li Wan hadn’t driven, and Lin Shuangzhi’s car was parked in the visitor’s parking lot nearby. Seeing Li Wan walking towards the complex gate, Lin Shuangzhi quickened her pace and caught up with her.

“Xiao Wan, where are you going? I’ll drive you.”

Li Wan slowed down, the wind quite strong today. She tightened her coat and casually said, “I haven’t decided yet.”

Lin Shuangzhi, hearing this, didn’t know how to respond, but she didn’t leave either.

Li Wan, seeing her still standing there, tilted her head and looked at her with a smile. “Are you planning to stand here and wait for my answer?”

Lin Shuangzhi’s eyes held that familiar look of helplessness and resignation, which Li Wan had previously interpreted as the team leader’s good nature, but now, she sensed something different.

She straightened up, facing the cold wind, and took a deep breath.

She thought she must be seeing things, how could she possibly detect a hint of… affection in the team leader’s eyes?

It must be the earlier scene at Qianrou’s place, triggering a compensatory fantasy, making her have such unrealistic expectations.

“Let’s think about it in the car.”

Hmm? What does that mean?

Li Wan blinked, confused, just as Lin Shuangzhi turned to leave.

“It’s windy today, if you haven’t decided where to go yet, I can drive around while you think about it.”

Li Wan understood now, Lin Shuangzhi was insisting on driving her home.

Looking at her slender back, Li Wan wanted to be stubborn, but she figured there was no point.

They were both adults, being difficult wouldn’t benefit her, and it was truly windy today, if she insisted on standing here, she would only end up with a runny nose and a red face.

There was no need for that, a free ride wasn’t a bad thing.

Li Wan got into the car, but Lin Shuangzhi didn’t immediately drive away.

She was truly, as she had said, waiting.

“Why aren’t you driving?”

“You haven’t told me where you want to go.”

Li Wan instinctively wanted to say, Just take me home, but she suddenly felt reluctant to end their time together, she was truly conflicted.

Lin Shuangzhi’s hand rested on the steering wheel, as if finding an anchor, tightening and loosening its grip repeatedly.

“How about… inviting me to your place?”

Lin Shuangzhi almost lost her grip on the steering wheel, the surprise on her face making Li Wan slightly embarrassed.

Perhaps she hadn’t expected anyone to actually invite themselves over again, and Li Wan, after saying it, also felt she had been a bit impulsive.

Just as she was about to change her mind, Lin Shuangzhi started the car and drove away.

“No need to drive so fast.” They weren’t in a hurry, there was no urgent matter, no need to speed.

Lin Shuangzhi didn’t slow down, instead calmly reassuring her, “I’m not speeding, I’ll make sure you’re safe.”

Li Wan couldn’t argue with her, so she just sat there quietly, fidgeting with her seatbelt, then said, her tone slightly defiant, “Do you have some precious treasure at home?”

Lin Shuangzhi chuckled, “I’m afraid that if I drive too slowly, you might change your mind and not want to go.”

This made Li Wan speechless.

This was Li Wan’s second visit to Lin Shuangzhi’s home. Compared to her hurried arrival and departure the first time, she had more time to observe her surroundings now.

Standing in the middle of the living room, the minimalist decor made it seem like the owner was in the process of moving.

“Have a seat, what would you like to drink?”

“Something warm.”

Whether it was because of the previous incident, or her recent emotional turmoil, Li Wan had been feeling some discomfort in her lower abdomen, as if her period was about to start early.

Lin Shuangzhi bustled about in the kitchen for a while, then emerged with two cups.

Li Wan looked down and sniffed, ginger tea?

“It’s a bit chilly today, this will warm you up.”

Li Wan took a slow sip and, gesturing towards her surroundings, said, “Your decorating style is… unique. Has anyone ever told you it looks like you live in a cave?”

Lin Shuangzhi admitted frankly, “You’re the first.”

Li Wan took another sip; the tea was quite good.

“Then I must be too critical.”

Lin Shuangzhi looked at her intently, then sighed softly, “You’re the only one who’s ever been here.”

Li Wan almost dropped her cup, she quickly placed it on the coffee table and smoothed her hair, trying to maintain her composure.

She suddenly recalled that night, being pressed against the door by Lin Shuangzhi, the heat, her lingering scent, the team leader’s husky voice in her ear.

She had said, “Xiao Wan, you’re the first.”

Li Wan discreetly glanced at Lin Shuangzhi, who didn’t seem to remember, and she breathed a sigh of relief, then felt a pang of sadness.

“Team Leader, have you… been planning this for a while?” Li Wan decided to change the subject, she had been wanting to ask, but the timing hadn’t been right.

“Yes, I’ve had a feeling ever since returning from the city government.”

“Willing to risk your career?”

“I have no other choice.”

Li Wan fell silent, Lin Shuangzhi’s decision couldn’t have been impulsive, she understood the implications better than anyone, what she stood to lose.

“Alright, you’re a guest, no need to discuss such serious matters. We’ve been talking for hours, aren’t you tired?”

“Then what should we talk about?”

Lin Shuangzhi seemed at a loss, she wasn’t good at making small talk.

Li Wan, knowing her personality, chuckled softly and didn’t press the issue.

Li Wan stood up, and Lin Shuangzhi, thinking she was about to leave, also stood up nervously, her hands fidgeting by her sides.

Li Wan, seeing this, felt a pang of sympathy.

“Can I… take a look around?”

“Of course.”

Li Wan walked around the dining room, the living room, and the balcony, then, after a moment of hesitation, headed towards the bedroom. That night, she had barely been able to see, she had been carried inside.

The bed was neatly made, the bedsheets seemingly the same as that night. She didn’t know if Lin Shuangzhi had multiple sets of the same bedding, or if she had simply washed and reused them.

Li Wan’s gaze slowly swept across the room, finally settling on a display cabinet by the wall.

Inside the glass doors, on four shelves, were a few carefully arranged items.

Each one exquisite and unique, although she didn’t know their meaning, being displayed in Lin Shuangzhi’s bedroom meant they were definitely not ordinary trinkets.

On the middle shelf was a vase, short and stout, not particularly beautiful, but clearly handmade.

Li Wan recognized it; she had made it herself after completing her internship under Lin Shuangzhi’s guidance. She had insisted on giving it to her, but Lin Shuangzhi had refused, joking that it would make people think she was playing favorites.

Although they both knew it was just a joke, Li Wan now understood the team leader’s intention back then, she had been afraid of people gossiping about Li Wan, a newcomer, using connections to advance her career. Even a small gift could become a source of rumors.

That night, in the dim light, Li Wan, lying in bed, had noticed the vase, but she hadn’t seen it clearly, and she had left hurriedly the next morning. Seeing it clearly now, she didn’t know how to feel.

“I didn’t expect you to still have it.”

Lin Shuangzhi, standing behind her, her voice gentle and filled with fondness, “I like it very much.”

Li Wan opened the cabinet and took out the vase.

“I just made it randomly back then. I ruined several before finally making one that was… presentable. Then I vowed to just give you whatever I made, regardless of how it turned out.”

So, the short, stout vase had ended up on Lin Shuangzhi’s display shelf.

“It’s unique.”

Li Wan turned and glared at her, clearly dissatisfied with this description.

Seeing that she was still holding the vase, Lin Shuangzhi gently took it from her and carefully placed it back on the shelf.

“You really like this vase?” Li Wan silently watched her actions, she hadn’t expected Lin Shuangzhi to treasure a random gift for so many years.

“How could I not like a gift from you?”

Li Wan was speechless, her breath catching in her throat.

She turned away, walking around the bedroom again, carefully avoiding the bed.

“Don’t you feel lonely living here alone?”

Li Wan felt the decor in the team leader’s apartment was too cold and empty, even more so than Qin Qianrou’s.

Qin Qianrou’s home, with Shen Yiqiu’s presence, although the furniture remained the same, the atmosphere was different, a constant warmth that made her cheeks flush.

But here, it still felt cold and lonely.

“That’s why I often work late, by the time I get home, I just shower and go to bed, I don’t have time to feel lonely.”

Li Wan shook her head and returned to the living room.

“You’re deliberately making things difficult for yourself.”

Lin Shuangzhi seemed more relaxed today, more talkative than usual.

“I just want to achieve more, otherwise I’ll have to pack up and go home.”

“What, to inherit the family fortune?”

Li Wan looked at her teasingly, and Lin Shuangzhi nodded seriously. “Not exactly a fortune, but there’s some inheritance.”

“So you’re a rich heiress, my apologies.”

They joked with each other, the atmosphere finally easing.

Seeing Li Wan’s usual cheerful demeanor, Lin Shuangzhi’s heart lightened.

“Team Leader, I remember you’re from Yong City, right?”

“Sort of.”

“Then why haven’t I ever seen you visit Yong City?”

“I’m busy with work, and besides, there’s nothing for me there.”

Li Wan felt something was amiss, but she couldn’t quite grasp it.

Lin Shuangzhi had been observing her, she knew that, but she wasn’t ready to respond yet.

“Actually, I’m from Meng City.”

Li Wan choked, surprised.

“I was found abandoned at the entrance of the Meng City orphanage, on a cold, frosty night.”

**

After her guests left, Qin Qianrou sat on the sofa for a long time, the documents still spread out before her, a reminder of their earlier discussion.

Shen Yiqiu sat beside her, not disturbing her, just quietly accompanying her.

Qin Qianrou leaned against Shen Yiqiu’s shoulder, still silent.

Her long hair cascaded down, covering half her face, and Shen Yiqiu carefully tucked it behind her ear, gently smoothing the strands.

“I suddenly feel so tired.”

“From work?”

“Mm, and a little… disappointed.”

This was the first time Qin Qianrou had so openly expressed her feelings about work. The usually positive and determined Reporter Qin, it seemed, also had moments of vulnerability and uncertainty.

Shen Yiqiu held her closer, gently swaying, and said, “Shao Qidong is cunning and underhanded, he’s only temporarily gaining the upper hand.”

“But I’m still angry.” Qin Qianrou’s tone was almost childish.

Shen Yiqiu kissed her forehead and chuckled, “A kiss, and the anger is gone.”

Qin Qianrou wrapped her arms around Shen Yiqiu’s waist, holding her even closer.

She didn’t want to rehash the serious discussion she had just had with the team leader and Li Wan, she didn’t want to involve Shen Yiqiu in the complexities of the television station’s internal struggles, but her heart was in turmoil, different from before.

She now had someone to lean on, someone to listen to her rambling and venting, someone who allowed her to be herself, without pretense or forced composure.

“Thank you.” Qin Qianrou buried her face in Shen Yiqiu’s embrace, her arms tightening around her slender waist.

Such a slender body, a university student ten years younger than her, a seemingly improbable relationship, yet Qin Qianrou felt increasingly secure.

Their discussion today hadn’t been smooth, although Lin Shuangzhi had come prepared, the plan she presented had long been formulated in her mind, all she needed was Li Wan and Qin Qianrou’s understanding and cooperation.

But Qin Qianrou still felt frustrated, for Lin Shuangzhi, and also angered by the influence of money and power. However, for now, they could only endure.

Shen Yiqiu hadn’t participated in their discussion, she hadn’t even interrupted them, but she had made Qin Qianrou feel her presence, her support.

“There’s no need for thanks between us.” Shen Yiqiu held Qin Qianrou as if she was a precious treasure, her touch gentle and affectionate.

“Then what should I say?” Qin Qianrou looked up, her head still nestled against Shen Yiqiu.

“What do you think?” Shen Yiqiu smiled and gently tilted her chin upwards.

Jiejie is so beautiful, a natural beauty, every feature so captivating.

“I don’t know, that’s why I’m asking you.”

Qin Qianrou’s mood lifted, and Shen Yiqiu was delighted. Like two children, they started playing a guessing game.

Chapter 75

Qin Qianrou woke up feeling warm. The heating in the room was on full blast, but Meng City wasn’t a dry northern city. Winter mornings always had a period of damp coldness, and Qin Qianrou would usually burrow deeper under the covers.

But today was different. Behind her was a small, portable heater, radiating warmth continuously. She unconsciously shifted, wanting to escape the heat, but the moment her shoulder touched a cool spot, she was pulled back, the arm around her waist tightening, as if afraid she might escape.

Qin Qianrou wasn’t fully awake yet and found this clinginess slightly uncomfortable. She let out a soft groan, struggling a little more.

“Don’t go.” A sleepy murmur, even more muffled than hers, made Qin Qianrou realize the source of the heat.

Being at home, her mood lighter, her body more relaxed, her sleeping posture had also become less restrained, more natural than during those two nights in the hotel. Shen Yiqiu was holding her tightly, her head nestled against Qin Qianrou’s neck, her warm breaths tickling her skin.

“I’m hot.” Qin Qianrou complained softly.

Shen Yiqiu, still half-asleep, slightly loosened her hold, allowing Qin Qianrou to turn around, but she didn’t release her. Qin Qianrou had to pull the blanket down a little to cool down.

Just as she was about to drift back to sleep, her phone on the nightstand started buzzing. Afraid of waking the person beside her, Qin Qianrou reached for her phone, intending to get out of bed, but she was pulled back into a warm embrace.

“Don’t go.” The sleepy murmur came again, slightly louder than before, but just as clingy and soft.

Qin Qianrou looked back at the person, her eyes still closed, holding the phone in one hand, gently stroking Shen Yiqiu’s hair with the other.

She stopped struggling and leaned against the headboard, answering the phone, “Team Leader.”

Lin Shuangzhi’s voice was also slightly hoarse, but not from sleep, more like she hadn’t slept at all.

“Sorry to wake you so early, Qianrou.”

“It’s alright, what is it?”

Lin Shuangzhi calling at this hour couldn’t be a personal matter. Qin Qianrou was now fully awake, but her voice remained low, afraid of waking the person beside her.

“Are you free today?”

“I have time.”

Lin Shuangzhi hesitated briefly, then said, “Xiao Wan probably told you about the situation at the station. I thought we should discuss our strategy this weekend. It’s not a good time for you to return to the station yet, I’ll handle things next week.”

Qin Qianrou had also returned for this matter, although she wanted to spend more time with Shen Yiqiu, work took priority.

“Okay, tell me the time and place.”

“Is 9 am okay? At your place, if that’s convenient.”

Qin Qianrou was taken aback, 9 am was fine, but she hadn’t expected the meeting to be held at her apartment. Even if not at a restaurant or cafe, it should be at the team leader’s place.

Come to think of it, no one on the team had ever been to the team leader’s home. She was always working overtime, practically the last to leave. She would generously treat them to meals and drinks for celebrations, but she had never invited anyone over.

“Is that… inconvenient?”

Qin Qianrou collected her thoughts, glanced at the person beside her, who was now rubbing her eyes, and said, “It’s fine, see you then.”

After hanging up, Shen Yiqiu was also awake. She slowly sat up, leaning against the headboard beside Qin Qianrou.

“Do you have to go out today?”

“No.”

Shen Yiqiu was puzzled, she had clearly heard something about 9 am earlier.

“The team leader and Xiao Wan are coming over to discuss some things, they’ll be here at 9 am.”

Shen Yiqiu blinked and responded with a simple “Oh.”

Qin Qianrou pursed her lips, suppressing a smile, her gaze fixed on Shen Yiqiu’s face. As expected, a few seconds later, she finally realized the implications.

“Ah? Coming here at 9 am?” Shen Yiqiu grabbed her phone from the nightstand to check the time.

“It’s almost 7 am.”

Qin Qianrou chuckled, seeing her sudden panic.

“They’re coming to discuss work, why are you so anxious?”

Shen Yiqiu, however, oblivious to Qin Qianrou’s teasing, was mentally calculating the time, worried she wouldn’t be able to finish everything in time.

“You’re discussing work, and I have to be in charge of your meals.”

Qin Qianrou’s smile faded slightly, “You’re on break, you should rest, no need to go to so much trouble, we can order takeout, they don’t mind.”

Shen Yiqiu, however, explained earnestly, “Jiejie, I don’t mind the effort.”

She recalled how, whenever her father’s colleagues came over to work overtime, her mother would always bustle about, preparing food and drinks, taking care of them, not to save money on takeout, but to make them feel comfortable and energized.

“We can order takeout anytime, but Chef Shen’s culinary skills are a rare treat.”

Shen Yiqiu’s playful boasting made Qin Qianrou chuckle, but she knew it wasn’t just for show.

“I’m just worried you’ll tire yourself out, you have classes, and you’re still making food for us on weekends.”

In Qin Qianrou’s mind, preparing a meal wasn’t an easy task, especially having cooked with Shen Yiqiu before, she was even more impressed by her skills.

“I’ll make sure you can focus on your work, I can’t let you eat takeout even when you’re home.”

Shen Yiqiu, slightly anxious, gave Qin Qianrou a quick kiss on the cheek, then hurried to the bathroom to get ready. Watching her retreating figure, Qin Qianrou leaned against the headboard, a warmth spreading through her chest.

Shen Yiqiu had brought this home to life, not just because of her presence, her companionship, but also the warmth of being cared for.

She had someone now, someone who took care of her, so even when colleagues came over for work, they didn’t have to suffer through takeout, this was fundamentally different from battling it out in the office. Shen Yiqiu taking on this responsibility touched Qin Qianrou deeply.

This was more heartwarming than any expensive jewelry or extravagant gifts, Shen Yiqiu, with these small, everyday gestures, had captured her heart completely.

**

When Qin Qianrou emerged from the bathroom, breakfast was already on the table, and Shen Yiqiu, a piece of toast in her mouth, was about to leave.

“Jiejie, I’m going to the supermarket, I just remembered we need a few things, you eat your breakfast, I’ll be back soon.”

Always rushing, the tenderness in Qin Qianrou’s eyes deepened as she watched Shen Yiqiu hurrying away.

Li Wan arrived before Lin Shuangzhi and ran into Shen Yiqiu returning from the supermarket downstairs. She helped her carry two of the grocery bags, jokingly calling it her “weekend overtime perk.”

Shen Yiqiu busied herself in the kitchen, and Lin Shuangzhi called, saying she needed to retrieve some documents from the station and would be there in about fifteen minutes. So, Li Wan chatted with Qin Qianrou in the living room.

“I thought you would be coming with the team leader.”

Li Wan leaned against the back of the sofa, her spirits low.

“I live here, she lives at her place, why would we come together?”

Qin Qianrou was puzzled, it wasn’t about where they lived. She had thought the team leader would pick Li Wan up, after all, hadn’t she said that before hanging up?

“The team leader told me she would pick you up.”

Li Wan was taken aback, staring at Qin Qianrou in disbelief. “Really?”

Qin Qianrou nodded, she wasn’t so incompetent as to misunderstand such a simple statement.

Li Wan’s expression was a mix of emotions, her spirits sinking even further.

“What’s wrong?”

Li Wan sighed heavily. “She did ask me this morning if I needed a ride, and I said no.”

Qin Qianrou understood, so she had rejected the offer herself.

But then, she thought, Doesn’t Xiao Wan like the team leader? Why would she refuse a chance to spend more time with her?

Since being in a relationship, Qin Qianrou had become more perceptive.

“Did something happen between you two…?”

Li Wan fidgeted, unconsciously shifting in her seat, then playing with her hair.

“Just… nothing, really, same as always.”

This was as good as saying nothing at all.

Li Wan couldn’t even look at Qin Qianrou, her voice lacking conviction, whether she was telling the truth or not.

The soreness between her legs had only subsided two days ago, but whenever she thought of Lin Shuangzhi, the memories of that night resurfaced, every touch, every sensation, so vivid.

It was agonizing, just the memories alone were enough to make her lose her composure, how could she possibly remain calm in front of the real person?

So, these past few days, she had been subconsciously avoiding Lin Shuangzhi.

She thought, Even if I see her, it would only be a polite inquiry about my… condition. It’s better to avoid her, at least until I can regain my composure.

Qin Qianrou knew Li Wan too well, her current behavior was unusual, and she had been mentioning Lin Shuangzhi less frequently lately. Qin Qianrou had initially thought their relationship would progress during her training program.

Now, it seemed that wasn’t the case.

“Xiao Wan, did something happen to upset you?”

For the usually brave and straightforward Li Wan to become like this, it was likely a relationship setback.

A fleeting sadness flashed across Li Wan’s face, quickly masked.

She looked around and said casually, “Why would I be upset? If anything, Director Yu being promoted to be my superior is the most upsetting thing lately.”

Changing the subject back to work, Qin Qianrou knew Li Wan didn’t want to discuss her relationship. Her current demeanor was a stark contrast to her earlier excitement and eagerness, sharing details of her after-work drinks and movie date with Lin Shuangzhi, and Qin Qianrou couldn’t help but worry.

Just as she was thinking about how to offer comfort, Li Wan suddenly asked, “What stage have you and Shen Yiqiu reached?”

“What?”

Li Wan leaned closer, a mischievous glint in her eyes, and whispered, “You know, that stage?”

Qin Qianrou’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she pushed Li Wan away.

“Why are you so nosy?”

“I’m always nosy, you’re just realizing this now?”

Li Wan stared at Qin Qianrou, a smile playing on her lips, seeing the usually aloof and composed reporter blush.

This was a rare sight.

She glanced towards the kitchen, Shen Yiqiu, in a sweatshirt, was busy preparing food, seemingly unaware of their conversation.

This little one, not bad.

**

After Lin Shuangzhi arrived, Li Wan became strictly business. Qin Qianrou, observing them discreetly, realized the situation was more serious than she had thought.

It wasn’t that their relationship hadn’t progressed; it had regressed significantly.

However, none of them were prone to emotional outbursts, and once the conversation shifted to work, the atmosphere became more harmonious.

“There have been frequent meetings at the station lately, the management team restructuring has already begun, and it will gradually affect department heads, then key personnel.” Lin Shuangzhi paused, then continued, “You should all be prepared.”

Li Wan scoffed, “‘Restructuring’ sounds nice, but it’s just a euphemism for a major shakeup. Who’s behind this, trying to turn the entire station into their mouthpiece?”

Qin Qianrou hadn’t said much, but she was also deep in thought.

“Xiao Wan, the situation is indeed serious, so we can’t follow the usual procedures.”

Qin Qianrou sensed the underlying meaning in her words and was slightly surprised. “Team Leader, are you planning to…?”

“I’ve already gone to the city government, I’ve spoken to the relevant officials, it’s not just Director Yu, there are other questionable appointments as well, but the feedback wasn’t promising, so I have to escalate this further.”

Now, even Li Wan was worried.

“Escalating this further will involve more people, and they might not even listen to you. Although Meng City Television has some influence, it’s not significant enough for personnel changes to warrant a report to the provincial government.”

Moreover, doing this was a huge risk for Lin Shuangzhi’s career. Even if she succeeded, higher management might not view her favorably, they might see her as a rebellious and uncontrollable element.

And if she failed, the consequences were even more dire, her years of hard work and her established reputation would be ruined. Even if she transferred to another station, there would be repercussions.

Thinking of Lin Shuangzhi, working alone late into the night, countless times, Li Wan’s eyes burned, and she felt a lump forming in her throat.

Before Qin Qianrou could offer any comfort, a tissue appeared before her. She looked up and saw Lin Shuangzhi’s calm yet subtly emotional gaze.

She took the tissue, but still insisted, “I’m not crying, do you think I’m that easily moved?”

Lin Shuangzhi chuckled softly, her smile more strained than usual.

“I wanted to discuss my plans with you today, what I’ll do if I succeed, or if I fail.”

Qin Qianrou and Li Wan exchanged glances, it seemed Lin Shuangzhi had already made up her mind.

“Team Leader, I admire your courage, but I have to say, you should reconsider this carefully, once you take action, it might cause even more trouble.”

Lin Shuangzhi didn’t seem concerned. “I’ve been your team leader for so many years, don’t you think I understand this? Haven’t I said the same thing to you every time you came to me with your project proposals?”

And did you listen? You persisted anyway.

“I’m not some hero or savior, I’m just doing what I think is right. Think about it, if those people really take over, will there still be a place for our team? It might not even be long before our team ceases to exist. There will be no more investigative journalism, no more employees who dare to challenge those in power, no more reporters the public can trust and rely on.”

Lin Shuangzhi sighed, as if asking, Is that the outcome you want to see?

Li Wan was silent for a moment, then said, “Let me do it, my father has some connections, it might be easier for me to approach them.”

Regardless of who took action, the outcome of the matter itself was uncertain, but for the person involved, there was only one possible outcome: a negative one.

Whoever went, would suffer the consequences.

“Team Leader, Xiao Wan, I’m the one who’s been in charge of most of our programs, proposing ideas and following up on them, I’m the one who’s been causing trouble for the directors, so…”

“So, no more arguments, I’m the team leader, we’ll do things my way.”

Li Wan looked at her intently, trying to decipher her expression.

But she was still as calm and composed as always, a hint of weariness in her eyes, just like her usual overworked self at the office.

But Li Wan had seen another side of her, the passionate and unrestrained side, the one who whispered sweet nothings in her ear.

Damn it, just thinking about it made Li Wan instinctively cross her legs. Thankfully, the table was high and sturdy, no one noticed her reaction.

Shen Yiqiu brought some snacks from the kitchen and refilled their teacups.

“Lunch will take a while, have some of these first.”

Lin Shuangzhi, afraid the other two might try to stop her, took the snack box and, as she opened it, said, “Shen Yiqiu has good taste, this brand is quite good, I always keep some at home.”

This brand was indeed good quality, slightly expensive, but worth it, it was just that the packaging was difficult to open.

Lin Shuangzhi struggled with it for a while, and Shen Yiqiu, passing by, took it from her.

She opened it effortlessly, making Lin Shuangzhi slightly embarrassed. Shen Yiqiu, oblivious, her attention still on the box, said,

“This one is a bit difficult to open today, it’s hard without nails.”

Her words drew everyone’s attention to Lin Shuangzhi’s hands on the table.

Li Wan was startled, When did she cut her nails so short?

They had still been… long… that day…

The painful and bittersweet memories made Li Wan blush.

Lin Shuangzhi coughed, covering her mouth and nose with her hand, avoiding Li Wan’s gaze.

Li Wan discreetly looked at Shen Yiqiu’s hands, her nails weren’t long, but they clearly hadn’t been trimmed recently.

It seemed Qianrou hadn’t experienced that painful yet intoxicating pleasure yet.

She wanted to offer Shen Yiqiu a suggestion, to trim her nails, but she couldn’t say it now, she could only give her a meaningful look, hoping the child would understand.

However, Shen Yiqiu’s gaze was fixed on Qin Qianrou. After placing the snacks on the table, her eyes never left her.

“Jiejie, if you’re tired, you should rest for a bit.” Shen Yiqiu’s voice wasn’t loud, but the restaurant wasn’t large either, and everyone heard her.

“Oh, so you’re only concerned about your Jiejie, there are two other Jiejies here, aren’t we tired as well?”

Li Wan’s teasing made Shen Yiqiu blush, but she remained by Qin Qianrou’s side.

Qin Qianrou hadn’t explicitly mentioned her relationship with Shen Yiqiu, and Lin Shuangzhi had sensed something different during their last meal together. Today, she finally realized she hadn’t been mistaken.

She observed Qin Qianrou and Shen Yiqiu briefly, then looked away, not showing much surprise or disapproval.

It was as if she was simply acknowledging a perfectly normal fact.

This attitude made Qin Qianrou feel comfortable. She hadn’t intended to hide it, but telling the team leader was even more difficult than telling Li Wan. She hadn’t expected the team leader to understand so quickly. So, it seemed the team leader wasn’t averse to same-sex relationships.

“Qianrou, you’re a reporter, although not as high-profile as a celebrity, there are still many people who pay attention to your private life.”

Qin Qianrou thought Lin Shuangzhi was reminding her to be discreet about their relationship.

To her surprise, the team leader said, “So, protect yourself, and protect her.”

Chapter 74 p2

Qin Qianrou soon appeared, and before Li Wan could even speak, Shen Yiqiu embraced her tightly.

Without hesitation or reservation, like lovers reunited after a long separation, if not for the surrounding crowd, Shen Yiqiu would have kissed her immediately.

“Ahem, how long are you two planning to hug? Didn’t you just see each other last week? Why are you acting like it’s been years?”

If they were talking about time apart, she and Qin Qianrou had been separated for even longer, what was Shen Yiqiu so excited about?

Qin Qianrou gently patted Shen Yiqiu’s arm, then glared at Li Wan playfully.

“As if I didn’t say anything, I shouldn’t have come, just being a third wheel here.”

Li Wan raised her hands in mock surrender and headed towards the parking lot. She hadn’t noticed it before, but seeing their public display of affection now made her feel strangely envious.

She had barely seen Lin Shuangzhi this week. Even when they did meet, it was just a hurried exchange of words, or to sign documents. Li Wan hadn’t even had a chance to ask her about the restructuring; it was said the list had already been submitted and was awaiting approval.

Qin Qianrou’s return this week, besides seeing Shen Yiqiu, was also because of this matter.

In the car on the way home, Shen Yiqiu and Qin Qianrou sat side by side in the back seat. Although they weren’t embracing, their intertwined fingers still made Li Wan feel a pang of… something.

She hadn’t expected Qianrou to be like this in a relationship.

She sighed softly, wondering what Lin Shuangzhi would be like in a relationship, probably still a robot.

They had already… done it, yet all Lin Shuangzhi had said afterwards was “I’m sorry,” then “Are you okay?” “Does it still hurt?” It was infuriating! Couldn’t she say anything else besides those three words?!

She had been so direct during the kiss, yet so awkward and clumsy afterwards. Li Wan wanted to buy a new 3D-printed brain for Lin Shuangzhi.

“Qianrou, how long is your leave this time?”

“Three days.”

“You should go back to the station, there have been major changes recently, everyone is on edge.”

Qin Qianrou had explained the situation to the training program leaders, and they had been understanding, after all, although training was important, their regular work was even more so. And Meng City Television, being a major local station, its restructuring served as an example for other stations, so they had readily approved Qin Qianrou’s leave request.

Shen Yiqiu was naturally delighted; this meant three more days with Jiejie.

“I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly.” Qin Qianrou had rarely interacted with Director Yu, but he wasn’t suitable for managing news programs.

“There must be someone pulling strings behind the scenes.”

“What did the team leader say?”

Hearing Lin Shuangzhi mentioned, Li Wan almost slammed on the brakes.

“She’s been incredibly busy, running around like a headless chicken, even went to the city government twice, but the outcome wasn’t ideal.”

“So Director Yu’s promotion is being pushed by the city government?”

Li Wan shook her head. “I asked my father, he didn’t say it directly, but I don’t think the city government would interfere in such specific personnel matters, they’re just fully supporting the restructuring. Director Yu’s promotion is mainly due to Deputy Director Ding.”

The station director position was still vacant, and many speculated that Deputy Director Ding was the most likely candidate.

Li Wan parked the car and handed the keys to Qin Qianrou. “I won’t be going up, you two rest early.”

“Message me when you get home.”

Back at their apartment, before Qin Qianrou could even turn around, she was enveloped in a familiar, longed-for embrace.

Shen Yiqiu, just like at the airport, hugged her tightly, as if wanting to merge into one.

“I missed you so much.”

The soft, sweet voice by her ear melted Qin Qianrou’s heart.

It was cold outside, but the apartment was warm, and Shen Yiqiu’s embrace even warmer.

“I missed you too.”

Shen Yiqiu gently caressed Qin Qianrou’s face, her touch lingering.

Her gaze then fell on those alluring lips, making Qin Qianrou instinctively look away.

She was wearing a nude lipstick today, not very noticeable at first glance, but upon closer inspection, still subtly seductive.

“Jiejie, you’re so beautiful, I can’t resist.”

As soon as she finished speaking, Shen Yiqiu leaned in and kissed her.

Qin Qianrou closed her eyes as she felt Shen Yiqiu’s lips on hers. They had a certain unspoken understanding now, easily sensing each other’s intentions.

With kisses like this, they were so familiar with each other that they could anticipate each other’s every move.

Lovers in the throes of passion couldn’t bear even three minutes apart, let alone a week. Having gained a girlfriend in Hai City, Shen Yiqiu had been waking up with a smile every morning, only to feel a pang of disappointment upon finding the apartment empty.

Now, it was different. The apartment, filled with Qin Qianrou’s presence, her warmth, felt alive again.

The kiss ended, and Qin Qianrou gently pushed Shen Yiqiu away, her hand resting on her shoulder. Slightly breathless, her cheeks flushed, she hadn’t even taken off her coat yet, her suitcase still by her feet.

“I’m so warm.” Qin Qianrou pushed her away again and took off her coat.

Shen Yiqiu naturally took it from her, hung it on the coat rack by the door, then took off her own coat and hung it beside Qin Qianrou’s. Then, after changing into her slippers, she took out another pair that had been placed by the door, squatted down before Qin Qianrou, and said,

“Jiejie, let me help you with your shoes.”

Qin Qianrou was used to wearing high heels, and after a long flight, her feet were probably tired, but Shen Yiqiu’s gesture made her feel a little embarrassed.

“I can do it myself.”

Shen Yiqiu, seeing her shyness, didn’t insist. She smiled, stood up, and supported Qin Qianrou as she changed her shoes.

Qin Qianrou wasn’t actually that tired, but she still graciously accepted Shen Yiqiu’s help, placing her hand on her arm.

“Are you hungry? Should I make you a late-night snack?”

“I’m not hungry, I ate on the plane.”

“Then how about a shower first?”

Knowing she was tired from traveling, Shen Yiqiu, apart from the initial passionate kiss upon her arrival, hadn’t been overly clingy.

Qin Qianrou soaked in the bathtub, the warm water soothing her tense and tired muscles. She had returned to Hai City twice this week, once for the meeting with the Cheng family, and then again on a weeknight, when only her grandfather and Wen Yirong had been home.

Her grandfather’s health had indeed deteriorated, his voice weaker, but he was still as stubborn as ever, expressing his displeasure over her refusal to date Cheng Yan, though he hadn’t forced the issue.

Wen Yirong had reassured her that her grandfather was just being difficult, he no longer had the energy to interfere too much. She hoped they could keep him happy for now, conceal things from him for as long as possible.

Qin Qianrou, seeing her mother’s hesitant and meaningful expression, wondered if she suspected something, but since Wen Yirong didn’t say anything directly, she couldn’t ask.

The Cheng father and son had left a decent impression, they hadn’t made any unreasonable requests, and they had maintained a respectful distance. Qin Qianrou, however, ever since hearing about Shen Yiqiu’s dream, had become more observant.

Whenever she saw someone wearing a tie, she couldn’t help but look twice.

Both the Cheng father and son had been wearing ties that day, but they were both in dark colors, not the bright yellow Shen Yiqiu had seen in her dream.

She hadn’t wanted to introduce Shen Yiqiu to her family so soon, her sweet and gentle little friend was so soft and innocent, what if they scared her?

Wen Yirong was the easiest person to get along with in the Qin family, and Shen Yiqiu had still been so nervous meeting her. If she met her father and grandfather, her little face would probably crumple in fear.

Qin Qianrou imagined Shen Yiqiu’s expression and couldn’t help but smile.

A knock on the bathroom door, and Shen Yiqiu’s voice came from outside. “Jiejie, are you almost done?”

Qin Qianrou had been in there for a while, and Shen Yiqiu was worried, afraid she might have fallen asleep and caught a cold.

“Almost.”

Qin Qianrou emerged from the bathroom, toweling her hair dry, and saw Shen Yiqiu still busy with something.

“It’s so late, what are you still doing?”

“Rong Fei gave me this a while ago, she said it helps with sleep.”

Shen Yiqiu was fiddling with a bottle of essential oil, seemingly using it for the first time.

“You haven’t used it before?”

Shen Yiqiu placed the diffuser on the nightstand, then walked over and took the hairdryer from Qin Qianrou.

“There’s no point in using it if you’re not home.”

Her casual tone, as if stating an obvious fact, made Qin Qianrou pause for a moment before understanding the implication, her cheeks flushing slightly.

“I’ll do it myself, you go take a shower.”

“I want to dry your hair for you. I’ve already showered.”

She’s quite efficient. Qin Qianrou suddenly remembered, how were they going to sleep tonight?

This wasn’t a hotel room, they had two bedrooms, two beds.

Before she could figure it out, Shen Yiqiu’s fingers were gently running through her hair, her touch tender and loving, making it impossible for Qin Qianrou to resist.

It’s fine to sleep together, we can chat before bed, and besides, it’s not like we haven’t slept together before.

Thinking this, Qin Qianrou quickly rationalized it.

“Jiejie…”

“Shen Yiqiu…”

They spoke simultaneously, then stopped, looking at each other, then they both chuckled.

Qin Qianrou spoke first, “What did you want to say?”

Shen Yiqiu blushed slightly, lowering her voice, “Jiejie, can you give me a special nickname?”

“Hmm?”

“Every time you call my name, it reminds me of being called out by the professor.”

Qin Qianrou thought for a moment. “How about Xiao Qiu?”

Shen Yiqiu quickly shook her head. “No, that’s what elders call me.”

Qin Qianrou, seeing her displeasure, thought for a moment longer.

This time, feeling a little shy herself, she softly said, “Qiu.”

A single word, spoken in such a gentle and affectionate tone, it made Shen Yiqiu’s heart melt.

Her heart raced, no one had ever called her “Qiu” like that before.

She put down the hairdryer and gently placed her hand on Qin Qianrou’s shoulder. Jiejie was slender, but not thin, her figure enviable.

The soft silk of her pajamas felt luxurious against Shen Yiqiu’s skin, the warmth of Qin Qianrou’s body radiating through the fabric.

Shen Yiqiu kissed Qin Qianrou’s earlobe, whispering softly, “I love it when you call me that, from now on, only you can call me that.”

Chapter 74 p1

Li Wan had barely slept all night, her dreams a jumbled mess she couldn’t recall. She woke up with a headache, her eyes stinging, her body aching.

Staring at her reflection in the mirror, she ran her fingers through her hair in frustration, then turned on the faucet with a loud splash, starting her morning routine. Monday, a universally disliked day, was especially unwelcome to Li Wan today.

Distracted throughout her commute, despite her meticulously applied makeup, more vibrant than usual, her heart pounded with anxiety. Stepping into the elevator, she felt like she was reliving her first day at the station, fresh out of university.

As more people entered, Li Wan exchanged greetings, the elevator filling with chatter. The new management team appointments would be announced this week, and some of the more well-informed colleagues already knew the results.

Some were happy, some worried, and Li Wan, finally understanding the situation, was surprised.

“Is it confirmed that Director Yu is being promoted?” Li Wan turned to a colleague from the advertising department.

“Yes, it seems the management team held an emergency meeting over the weekend and finalized the decision, they’ll be submitting the list this week.”

It had been a rumor before, now it seemed it was about to become reality.

But this wasn’t good news for Li Wan, or for their team.

Director Yu not only lacked experience in program production, but he had also always been against their team’s focus on hard-hitting stories that often offended major sponsors. He had objected to their project proposals multiple times in the past.

If he was put in charge of their team, producing quality programs in the future would be even more difficult.

Her heart heavy, Li Wan entered the office, put down her bag, and took a deep breath to compose herself. She repeatedly told herself, It’s work time now, don’t bring your personal emotions into this.

Then, she headed towards Lin Shuangzhi’s office, she needed to discuss the implications of Director Yu’s potential promotion with the team leader.

The door was open, but the office was empty. Li Wan paused, then asked a passing colleague, “Is the team leader not in?”

“She went to a meeting early this morning, seemed to be in a hurry.”

Li Wan thought it must be about Director Yu’s matter.

Her emotions were complex, a mix of disappointment and relief. After glancing at the empty chair behind the desk a few more times, Li Wan returned to her own office.

She thought about it, then decided to inform Qin Qianrou. If Director Yu truly became the deputy station director, he would likely target them.

Qin Qianrou quickly replied that she understood, adding that she was currently in training and would call her later to discuss it in detail. Li Wan then focused on her work, but her mind couldn’t quite settle down.

By noon, Lin Shuangzhi still hadn’t returned. This was normal, her meetings were usually long, sometimes extending until the end of the workday. However, Li Wan felt like she had endured an eternity, glancing at the time to confirm it was just her own perception.

A colleague knocked on her door. “Sister Xiao Wan, going for lunch?”

Li Wan, her spirits low, leaned back in her chair and declined. “Not today, I have a lot of work to catch up on, I’ll just go to the cafeteria later.”

“Okay, let me know if you want me to bring you anything.”

Li Wan had no appetite. She pushed her work aside, her mind wandering.

She hadn’t thought she was someone whose work would be affected by her emotions, and she had thought that after her university relationship, she had become more mature. But after meeting Lin Shuangzhi, all her previous emotional control had seemed pointless.

All she could think about now was Lin Shuangzhi, she wanted to see her, yet she also didn’t want to see her.

This internal conflict tormented Li Wan. She had left so hurriedly that morning, she hadn’t had a chance to talk to Lin Shuangzhi properly.

But what could she possibly say in that situation?

Clothes scattered on the floor, the rumpled bedsheets, and the lingering ache in her thighs, what was there to discuss?

Li Wan cringed, but she hadn’t been in a hurry to leave at the time, she had simply been too shocked, too flustered to react appropriately.

Lin Shuangzhi, leaning against the headboard, after a long silence, had softly said, “I’m sorry.”

Li Wan had felt a surge of anger, pulling the blanket around her as she sat up.

Her back still ached, and other, more sensitive areas also throbbed, reminding her that their relationship was different now. But what kind of response was “I’m sorry?”

After such an intense and passionate night, all she could say was “I’m sorry?”

“Between adults, there’s no need for apologies.”

Lin Shuangzhi had glanced at the bedsheets, her expression darkening, the memories of last night weighing heavily on her. There was no trace of joy, she looked more like a child who had done something wrong, waiting to be punished.

Her face was filled with regret, she almost said she regretted it.

Li Wan was a proud person, having lost control in the heat of the moment under Lin Shuangzhi’s allure didn’t mean she would cling to her.

If her feelings weren’t reciprocated, she wouldn’t impose herself on her.

However, as she got dressed, her heart ached.

She could feel Lin Shuangzhi’s gaze upon her, she wanted her to say something, anything, but she was also afraid of hearing something even more hurtful, so she had remained silent, the silence continuing until she was fully dressed.

Lin Shuangzhi, in her pajamas, had silently followed her, her lips moving as if to speak, but no words came out.

Li Wan picked up her bag, her hand on the doorknob.

“If there’s nothing else, I’ll be going.”

Li Wan, her back to Lin Shuangzhi, bid her farewell, but her hand didn’t open the door.

“Should I… drive you home?” Lin Shuangzhi’s hesitant tone, the lingering regret in her voice, it seemed she wanted to make amends for her drunken behavior.

Li Wan’s disappointment turned into anger, but she couldn’t express it.

She bit her lip, forced a smile, and opened the door, leaving decisively. Turning around, she smiled at Lin Shuangzhi, “I can go home by myself, I’m not that fragile.”

“But last night…”

Li Wan didn’t want to be reminded of last night, it had been a turning point in her life, and she didn’t regret it being with Lin Shuangzhi. But she also didn’t want to use this to force a relationship, she didn’t need her to take responsibility or any of those cliché lines.

It was a new era, between consenting adults, there was no need to talk about responsibility. She wasn’t some object whose value decreased after being “opened.”

She was simply… sad. She had thought she would be having a loving, post-coital breakfast at the team leader’s place this morning.

Lin Shuangzhi had messaged her, asking if she had gotten home safely, and after she confirmed, had simply told her to rest well. Li Wan had waited, but there had been no further messages from Lin Shuangzhi.

This was probably the most unforgettable, and also the most frustrating, weekend of her life.

Lost in thought, she vaguely heard hurried footsteps outside, a familiar sound.

She instinctively walked out, wondering if it was Lin Shuangzhi.

As expected, before she could even speak, she saw Lin Shuangzhi rushing into her office, frantically searching through her drawers.

Li Wan hesitated, then followed her. Standing at the doorway, she knocked softly.

Lin Shuangzhi looked up, startled to see her. “Xiao Wan, why aren’t you having lunch?”

“I have too much work, I didn’t go out.”

Lin Shuangzhi responded with a simple “Oh,” then continued her search.

“What are you looking for?”

Lin Shuangzhi sighed, “An annual plan from last year, I’m sure I put it here.”

“Isn’t there a copy on your computer?”

“It’s not the content that’s important, it’s the signatures of the directors on it.”

Although Lin Shuangzhi had a lot of documents, she was very organized, but today, she was clearly flustered, having searched for a while without finding it, and Li Wan couldn’t help but walk over to help.

“Don’t worry, just calmly think about it, are you sure you put it here?”

Lin Shuangzhi looked at her, closed her eyes as instructed, thought for a moment, then went to search another drawer.

“Did the meeting go smoothly today?”

“No, it was mostly arguing.”

Li Wan was surprised, “You argued with someone?”

In her impression, the team leader wasn’t one for confrontations.

She herself had a fiery temper and often caused trouble, it was always the team leader who cleaned up after her, and she admired Lin Shuangzhi’s patience.

“It was so absurd, if I hadn’t argued, I wouldn’t even have had the chance to come back and look for this document.”

“That serious?”

Lin Shuangzhi finally found what she was looking for, rolling it up and clutching it tightly. After a moment of consideration, she softly said, “Besides the management changes, the station’s restructuring also affects our team.”

Li Wan’s expression turned grim; this wasn’t good news.

Lin Shuangzhi continued, “The station intends to transfer you and Qianrou to other departments, to work on different types of programs.”

Li Wan was furious, what did they mean by that?

Lin Shuangzhi also felt helpless, if her two most capable team members were transferred, there was no hope of producing any quality programs in the near future.

“Don’t worry, I won’t let this happen.”

Li Wan, however, was still worried, if this was truly the intention of the station directors, even Lin Shuangzhi’s resistance wouldn’t be enough.

“Alright, I have to go back to the meeting now, you go have lunch, don’t skip meals.”

“What about you?”

“I have a lunchbox.”

Lin Shuangzhi’s departure was as hurried as her arrival, her expression serious. Li Wan, watching her retreating figure, was speechless.

She had been angry, but seeing her now, all she felt was concern.

**

Qin Qianrou returned to Meng City on Friday evening. Shen Yiqiu strained her neck, looking around eagerly, and Li Wan chuckled, her arms crossed.

“Look at you, like a little monkey, so impatient, your girlfriend isn’t going anywhere.”

Shen Yiqiu glared at her; Li Wan had been acting strangely all day.

“I can’t wait to see my girlfriend, can I?”

“You can, but you’re making it seem like I don’t care about Qianrou.”

Shen Yiqiu said helplessly, “Jiejie won’t blame you.”

Li Wan felt a surge of frustration, she couldn’t understand why, besides Lin Shuangzhi, even Shen Yiqiu’s thought processes were so difficult to decipher.