Category: Qin Auntie, Save Me [Rebirth]

Chapter 63 p1

The conversation at dinner revolved mainly around Qin Qianrou’s training program in Hai City. Although they knew it wouldn’t be particularly exciting, they still asked enthusiastically.

Li Wan, as always, was the most inquisitive. After Lin Shuangzhi finished asking about work-related matters, she took over the conversation. “So, were there more handsome men or beautiful women at the training program?”

Qin Qianrou thought for a moment. “Mostly women.”

“More young people or middle-aged?”

“Around my age and experience level.”

Lin Shuangzhi chuckled. “You’re being too modest, Qianrou. I’ve seen the materials from the training program organizers, each station sent their best people, and you, Qianrou, are exceptionally outstanding. Besides, at your level, there aren’t many people your age in the entire country.”

Qin Qianrou didn’t intend to compare herself to others, but since the team leader had said this, she had to respond. “It’s just that the station has given me many opportunities, and I’ve also been quite lucky.”

Li Wan added, her voice filled with sympathy, “That’s also because you’re more dedicated than anyone else, you’ve devoted all your time to your work.”

Indeed, you achieved in six years what others took over a decade to accomplish. Besides natural talent, it must have taken immense effort, everyone knew that.

“Xiao Wan, don’t worry, the station recognizes Qianrou’s dedication. The directors have praised her to me multiple times, even suggesting she be made an example for others.”

Qin Qianrou, however, frowned slightly; she didn’t like being in the spotlight, and she certainly didn’t like being held up as a role model.

Lin Shuangzhi smiled at Qin Qianrou. “But I also know how you feel about that, so I turned them down. Qianrou, in my team, you just focus on what you want to do.”

Qin Qianrou thanked her gratefully. Lin Shuangzhi, although one of the few female team leaders, was a strong and capable leader.

Li Wan’s heart melted, she loved hearing the team leader speak in that gentle and reassuring tone. It was as if the sky was falling, and the team leader was holding her close, kissing her, and soothing her, Don’t worry, I’ll hold up the sky for you.

The thought made her blush, and she almost forgot to look away from Lin Shuangzhi. Thankfully, it was just the four of them tonight, and she felt that the distance between her and Lin Shuangzhi wasn’t as great as before. She intentionally sent out a subtle signal, hoping Lin Shuangzhi would understand her feelings.

Shen Yiqiu sat quietly, listening to their lively conversation. She couldn’t really contribute, and no one specifically asked about her.

She silently ate the food in front of her, feeling a little disappointed. Sister Li Wan had encouraged her not to give up, but how should she persist? Her previous approach hadn’t been effective, and Jiejie was leaving again in two days, she didn’t know when she would return.

A chicken wing suddenly appeared in her bowl, and Shen Yiqiu turned to look at the person beside her.

Qin Qianrou’s expression was normal, she simply said softly, “The chicken wings here are quite good, you should try them.”

Shen Yiqiu smiled and nodded; Jiejie wasn’t completely rejecting her, even after her transgression yesterday.

Towards the end of the meal, Li Wan casually asked, “Any plans after this?”

It was the weekend, and apart from this pre-arranged dinner, they hadn’t made any other plans. But now, Li Wan, still feeling energized, wanted to continue their evening.

Rong Fei glanced at her phone. “I need to go back to my office.”

Li Wan looked at her, puzzled. “Working overtime on the weekend?”

“Weekends are my busiest time.”

That was true, many people could only attend consultations on weekends, after all, regular workers couldn’t just take time off whenever they wanted.

Li Wan then looked at Shen Yiqiu. “What about you? Any plans?”

Shen Yiqiu shook her head, about to say she had no plans, intending to go home with Jiejie.

Qin Qianrou, however, spoke first. “I have something to take care of later, I probably won’t be back until tonight.”

This was directed at both Li Wan and Shen Yiqiu.

So Jiejie has other plans today, Shen Yiqiu felt another pang of disappointment.

Li Wan winked at Shen Yiqiu and asked, “Qianrou has plans this afternoon, why don’t you hang out with me? I’m bored.”

Shen Yiqiu hadn’t slept well last night and wanted to take a nap. Although she was disappointed that Jiejie had plans, as long as she could return to the comfort of their home, she would be fine.

“I actually…”

Li Wan waved her hand dismissively. “Ah, I know, you young people don’t want to hang out with us old folks, you want to go out with your friends, right?”

Shen Yiqiu saw Li Wan’s meaningful glances, and since Qin Qianrou and Rong Fei were engrossed in their conversation, not noticing their interaction, she understood Li Wan was trying to help her again. Accepting her kindness, she played along. “Mm, I’m meeting a friend later.”

Li Wan volunteered to drive Shen Yiqiu to meet her friend, so Qin Qianrou could attend to her matters.

“Is that alright?” Qin Qianrou asked Shen Yiqiu.

“It’s fine, Sister Li Wan will drive me, Jiejie, you go ahead.”

Qin Qianrou didn’t say anything more and went to get the car with Rong Fei.

Li Wan noticed that Lin Shuangzhi hadn’t spoken, and just as she was about to turn and ask her, she saw her looking at her with a smile.

“I don’t have any other plans, how about we… spend some time together?”

Li Wan’s heart skipped a beat, what was with the team leader lately, suddenly having so much free time. But she loved it, because this free time was spent with her.

Could she be so bold as to assume that the team leader had free time because of her?

The thought made her incredibly happy.

“Sure, let’s spend some time together. But no more ‘anything’ or ‘whatever’ today, you decide.” Li Wan didn’t want to always be the one making decisions, she wanted the team leader to put in some effort.

Blindly following and accommodating wasn’t as fun as a mutual pursuit.

Shen Yiqiu vaguely sensed something at the dinner table, and seeing that they had already made plans, she felt like a third wheel.

“Then I won’t disturb you two.” Shen Yiqiu stood up to leave.

Li Wan stopped her. “Where are you going? I promised Qianrou I would drive you.”

Shen Yiqiu looked at her helplessly. “Sister Li Wan, you know I don’t have any plans, where can you possibly drive me?”

Shen Yiqiu had planned to go to a bookstore, have a cup of coffee, and read a book to kill time. She had forgotten to ask Jiejie if she was coming home for dinner, but she still wanted to go back and prepare something for her.

“How about going to see your cousin?”

Shen Yiqiu shook her head. “I told him I wouldn’t be contacting him these next few days.”

Li Wan looked at her curiously. “Why?”

If it was the kind of relationship she had initially misunderstood, it would make sense for them to temporarily stop contacting each other while Qin Qianrou was back. But there was no need for that now, romantic love and familial affection weren’t mutually exclusive.

“My cousin doesn’t want Jiejie to know he’s back in Meng City, I promised to keep it a secret.”

Li Wan had previously suggested a get-together, but Yuan Qi had awkwardly refused. Since he didn’t seem interested, she hadn’t pressed the issue.

But she hadn’t expected him to be deliberately avoiding them.

“He’s still afraid?”

“Not exactly afraid, but he’s being cautious, he doesn’t want to run into Jiejie.”

Yuan Qi hadn’t explained why he was avoiding Qin Qianrou, only saying they had a conflict in the past, and it hadn’t ended well. After so many years, their connection had faded, and meeting again would only be awkward, so it was best to avoid it.

Shen Yiqiu, recalling the slap Qin Qianrou had given him, knew it wasn’t a pleasant memory.

“If Yuan Qi wants to avoid her, he shouldn’t have come back. I thought he had finally let go of the past.”

Shen Yiqiu knew Li Wan and her cousin were also old acquaintances, but they both seemed unwilling to mention the past.

“Alright, then you go have fun. It’s daytime, I’m not worried about anything happening to you, if there’s a problem, just call me, okay?”

Shen Yiqiu waved goodbye and stepped into the elevator.

Lin Shuangzhi walked over and stood beside Li Wan.

“A walk around the area?”

“Not driving?”

Lin Shuangzhi looked around; they were in a commercial district, surrounded by malls, plenty of leisure options, but parking would be difficult.

“We’ll be spending the afternoon here anyway, it’s a waste of a parking spot.”

Li Wan sighed inwardly, she shouldn’t have expected any creative date ideas from the team leader, even a date was spent in such a commercial and ordinary setting.

“Do you want to watch a movie, or go to the arcade?”

Li Wan glanced at her and didn’t answer.

Lin Shuangzhi paused, then chuckled. “Sorry, I’m still adjusting. Let’s watch a movie then, there are a few new releases.”

The top floor of the mall was a cinema, its facilities and environment among the best in Meng City.

Li Wan didn’t comment, and Lin Shuangzhi quietly stood beside her.

She thought, I’ve never watched a movie with the team leader before, I wonder what kind of movie she’ll choose.

She gave a soft “Mm-hmm” and followed Lin Shuangzhi to the escalator. It being the weekend, the cinema was quite crowded, mostly couples, and some families with children, there to watch animated movies.

The aroma of popcorn, the chatter of the crowd, and the slightly cramped waiting area made Li Wan feel a little disoriented.

How long had it been since she last came to a movie theater at this time of day? After starting her career, she would never subject her tired self to such a crowded environment. She and Qin Qianrou, when they occasionally watched movies, would always choose off-peak hours, preferring to watch during mealtimes for a more peaceful experience.

“Which one do you want to see?” Lin Shuangzhi pointed to the promotional posters, checking the screening times on the display.

“Anything is fine, except animated movies.” Li Wan didn’t want to endure the noise and commotion of children throughout the movie.

“Of course, you’re not a child.”

Lin Shuangzhi suddenly took her hand and led her towards the ticket counter.

Li Wan was startled and surprised. The team leader had never held her hand so proactively before, although it seemed to be just to navigate the crowd.

But the feeling was… quite pleasant.

Without resisting, Li Wan obediently followed, half a step behind, her ears feeling slightly warm.

Lin Shuangzhi reached the counter, briefly inquired about the upcoming screenings, and chose a movie.

Li Wan seemed to have become deaf, lost in her own world, until Lin Shuangzhi gently called her name.

“Xiao Wan?”

“Ah, what is it?”

“I’ve bought the tickets, the movie starts in half an hour. Want to buy any snacks?”

Li Wan glanced at the typical movie snacks behind the counter, feeling uninterested.

She thought sadly, Perhaps I’m past the age of enjoying movie snacks, all I think about now is healthy living.

Lin Shuangzhi, seeing her lack of interest, didn’t ask further and led her away.

This time, they didn’t return to their previous spot, but walked towards the spiral staircase in the atrium.

“Where are we going?”

“I remember there’s an ice cream shop downstairs.”

The mall’s heating was on full blast, and after a while, it did feel a little stuffy.

“Who said I wanted ice cream?” Okay, Li Wan thought, I do want some.

Lin Shuangzhi smiled but didn’t argue.

As they reached the ice cream counter, she said, “I want some, would you like to have some with me?”

“Okay, I’ll have a small one.”

Li Wan watched as Lin Shuangzhi pointed to this flavor, then that flavor, and ended up buying a large one.

“Why did you…?”

Lin Shuangzhi sighed helplessly. “Two small ones wouldn’t be enough for either of us, it’s better to share a large one, and we can try more flavors.”

It sounded reasonable, and Li Wan, inexplicably, agreed.

So, she took the spoon Lin Shuangzhi offered, the cold, creamy, and delicious ice cream melting in her mouth.

Vanilla flavor, the team leader knew her preferences after all.

Li Wan’s eyes crinkled in a smile, the ice cream truly delicious.

 

Chapter 62 p2

Qin Qianrou shook her head helplessly, wanting to drape a robe over her, afraid she might catch a cold, but then she saw the tear stains on her eyelashes.

And the sheet of paper beneath her face, soaked with tears.

The blank page was filled with nothing but her name, written over and over.

Qianrou, Qianrou, each character seemingly stained with teardrops, like a hidden pattern.

Qin Qianrou’s fingers turned white, unable to imagine the emotions Shen Yiqiu had felt while writing those words.

She stood there for a long time, wanting to wipe away those tears, wanting to gently caress that soft cheek, but she couldn’t.

Qin Qianrou understood, Shen Yiqiu’s kiss could be explained as youthful impulsiveness, a lack of control. But if she were to initiate such intimacy, it wouldn’t be a simple matter of impulse.

She was ten years older; if she did such a thing, she would have to take responsibility.

She was afraid she couldn’t offer what Shen Yiqiu needed, afraid of disappointing her. After all, she was still so young.

Being in a relationship with a girl ten years younger than her, Qin Qianrou’s hesitation wasn’t due to fear or disgust; she actually found her time with Shen Yiqiu warm and pleasant.

However, she wasn’t sure if it was love, and she wasn’t sure if eighteen-year-old Shen Yiqiu could offer her a future.

Qin Qianrou wasn’t so traditional as to believe that every relationship had to lead to marriage, but she was a serious person, and once she committed to a relationship, she would dedicate herself completely.

She was afraid of failing Shen Yiqiu, and also afraid of being failed.

She wanted to love, but she didn’t dare to.

Finally, Qin Qianrou gently draped a robe over Shen Yiqiu, closed her door, and returned to her own room.

**

The next day, just after 9 am, Li Wan’s call came, her tone cheerful.

“Qianrou, are you awake? Don’t forget our ‘date’ today.”

Qin Qianrou had been dreaming all night. She and Shen Yiqiu had barely exchanged five sentences during dinner, probably their most silent meal together.

After going to bed, Shen Yiqiu’s face had appeared in her dreams, making it difficult for her to sleep.

Suppressing a slight headache, Qin Qianrou’s voice was slightly hoarse. “I know, I won’t forget.”

“Then remind Shen Yiqiu, I won’t call her specifically.”

Qin Qianrou paused, about to suggest leaving Shen Yiqiu out today, but she thought it wouldn’t be good, it would make Shen Yiqiu feel excluded.

“See you later.”

Qin Qianrou drove Shen Yiqiu to the restaurant. They were quiet in the car, only slightly more talkative than last night.

“How are your studies going lately? Any areas you’re struggling with?”

“It’s going well, I’m keeping up.” Shen Yiqiu fidgeted with her phone. She had wanted to tell Jiejie that she had scored the highest in their recent quiz and had been praised by the professor.

“Any problems while I was away?”

“No, everyone has been very helpful.” Shen Yiqiu smiled at her, a slightly forced smile, but not entirely insincere.

Qin Qianrou pursed her lips, and the car fell silent again.

Qin Qianrou, from the corner of her eye, noticed Shen Yiqiu constantly clutching her phone, but she wasn’t messaging anyone, she seemed to be waiting for something.

“Although studying is important, you should also take breaks. It’s good to go out and relax with your classmates or friends, just remember to take care of yourself.”

Shen Yiqiu looked at her, puzzled, was Qin Qianrou encouraging her to go out and have fun?

“You don’t have many friends in Meng City, it’s good to meet more people.”

Shen Yiqiu realized that Jiejie was trying to encourage her to shift her affections to someone else, she must have found her annoying. But Jiejie didn’t understand, she wouldn’t like anyone else besides her.

“There’s no one I’m particularly interested in, it’s better to focus on my studies.”

Shen Yiqiu’s personality was similar to her parents’; they weren’t particularly social. They got along with those they clicked with, and if they didn’t, they simply parted ways. They preferred maintaining cordial relationships rather than forcing connections with those they disliked.

When they arrived at the restaurant, Shen Yiqiu realized there was another person present.

Li Wan walked over and hugged Qin Qianrou, which made Rong Fei and Lin Shuangzhi chuckle.

“Xiao Wan, you’re acting like Qianrou is the one you like.” Rong Fei stirred her coffee, her tone teasing.

“Hah, that’s just your assumption. Qianrou and I know our own feelings, if I liked her, I would have confessed long ago, why wait until now?”

Qin Qianrou sat beside Lin Shuangzhi, and Shen Yiqiu naturally tried to sit next to her as well, only to realize there was no seat for her.

Just as she awkwardly considered asking the waiter for another chair, Li Wan beckoned her over with a smile. “Come here, I saved this seat for you.”

Shen Yiqiu walked over, puzzled, which placed her directly across from Qin Qianrou.

“You’re always clinging to Qianrou, sit with me today.”

Shen Yiqiu blinked at her, what was the connection between the two?

Li Wan gently pinched her cheek, marveling at its smoothness, Youth is truly wonderful, so much collagen!

“Just sit, so many questions.”

“Ahem, Xiao Wan, stop bullying her, let’s order first, I’m sure Qianrou and Shen Yiqiu haven’t had breakfast yet.”

Li Wan then realized she hadn’t formally introduced Lin Shuangzhi.

Shen Yiqiu smiled politely at Lin Shuangzhi. “Hello, Sister Lin.”

Lin Shuangzhi chuckled, glancing at Qin Qianrou, then at Li Wan, and said, “I’m feeling younger already, thanks to you two.”

Having grown accustomed to being called “Auntie,” being called “Sister” now put her in a good mood.

Qin Qianrou’s expression remained indifferent, and Li Wan, after observing her for a while, didn’t see any reaction.

Li Wan, taking advantage of Qin Qianrou and Rong Fei’s trip to the restroom, pulled Shen Yiqiu aside and whispered, “How did it go yesterday?”

Shen Yiqiu’s face fell, and she sighed. “I was rejected.”

Li Wan was surprised. “You confessed already? Didn’t I tell you to take it slowly?”

She looked at Shen Yiqiu with a mixture of exasperation and disappointment. She had left early yesterday precisely for this reason.

Shen Yiqiu felt wronged, she was inexperienced, and besides, Jiejie’s lips had been so alluring yesterday, she hadn’t been able to resist.

“I couldn’t help myself…”

She lowered her head, her voice filled with grievance, regret, and a hint of shyness.

Her hesitant tone startled Li Wan. “Did you… force yourself on her?”

Judging by Qin Qianrou’s demeanor, bringing Shen Yiqiu along today meant she wasn’t completely indifferent, right?

Li Wan thought, I didn’t expect the usually aloof Qianrou to have such preferences.

Shen Yiqiu frantically shook her head. “No, no, I just…” She blushed, slightly embarrassed. “I kissed Jiejie.”

She pinched her fingers together, emphasizing the lightness of the touch. “Just a quick peck.”

Li Wan was disappointed, thinking she was a champion, only to find she was a beginner.

Then, realizing the implications, she was stunned again.

Although it was just a quick peck, it wasn’t just anyone, it was the notoriously aloof Qin Qianrou!

So Qianrou let you kiss her, and even brought you out today.

“Kid, you’re in luck. Keep at it, don’t give up, understand?”

Shen Yiqiu had never intended to give up, but recalling last night’s events still saddened her. Jiejie didn’t like her acting like that, but she didn’t know what to do now.

Li Wan and Shen Yiqiu’s conversation became more animated, Li Wan’s arm now around Shen Yiqiu’s neck, their faces almost touching. Although Lin Shuangzhi was sitting beside Li Wan, there was still some distance between them, and since she disliked eavesdropping, she could only keep sipping her water.

However, even after several cups of tea, Li Wan was still talking.

Lin Shuangzhi stood up to urge the waiter to serve their food, then turned around and saw them still in close proximity.

“Xiao Wan, offer her some snacks, the food will take a while.”

Li Wan loosened her hold slightly, but her arm remained around Shen Yiqiu. Seeing Lin Shuangzhi staring at the empty table, she smiled inwardly.

“It’s okay, she doesn’t like these, and she can handle being hungry.” Then, she looked at Shen Yiqiu meaningfully. “Am I right, kiddo?”

Shen Yiqiu didn’t understand, she felt Sister Li Wan was being overly enthusiastic today. However, she was glad she was finally no longer sneezing from her perfume.

A plate of snacks appeared before Li Wan, and she saw her favorite almond cakes.

“The kid can handle being hungry, you, however, might not be able to.”

Li Wan smiled as she started eating, her smile widening with each bite.

Finally free from Sister Li Wan’s clutches, Shen Yiqiu breathed a sigh of relief and looked at Lin Shuangzhi gratefully, only to find the team leader looking at her as well.

Shen Yiqiu awkwardly looked away, staring blankly at her teacup.

Qin Qianrou and Rong Fei returned from the restroom and immediately noticed the lonely figure.

Although Li Wan and Lin Shuangzhi weren’t doing anything particularly intimate, there was an undeniable intimacy in the air, a special atmosphere surrounding them, excluding Shen Yiqiu, who seemed like a lonely outsider.

Qin Qianrou turned and whispered a few words to the waiter, and soon, a chair was brought over and placed beside her, along with an extra set of cutlery.

“Shen Yiqiu, come sit here.”

Chapter 62 p1

Qin Qianrou felt a little embarrassed by this straightforward compliment. She had received countless praises, yet this simple statement from Shen Yiqiu made her heart soften uncontrollably.

During her short break, after a long flight, she should have returned home in a casual and relaxed state, but Qin Qianrou had taken the time to apply light makeup. She had told herself that after being away for so long, their reunion should be a little more… special.

Her colleagues, seeing her carefully applied makeup, more elegant than her usual workday look, had teased her, saying she was rushing back to Meng City for a date.

Qin Qianrou had simply smiled, not bothering to explain. She never discussed her personal life. But this time, she felt a strange sense of hesitation, unable to articulate her reasons.

Shen Yiqiu was still staring at her, her gaze becoming increasingly unrestrained, filled with an affection Qin Qianrou couldn’t ignore. Even without a single word, she could clearly see the emotions hidden within those eyes.

As expected, her absence hadn’t diminished Shen Yiqiu’s feelings. On the contrary, judging by her earlier excitement, her longing had only intensified.

Qin Qianrou’s initial shyness turned into a heavy feeling of guilt, silently blaming herself for her impulsive decision to return. She had originally planned to stay in Hai City during this break, yet here she was, having wontons with Shen Yiqiu.

Her mind was in turmoil, and she absently stirred the wontons in her bowl, then instinctively lifted a spoonful to her mouth, only to let out a cry of surprise.

“Jiejie, what’s wrong?”

Qin Qianrou pressed her lips together, her eyes slightly reddened.

Shen Yiqiu immediately jumped up from her chair, rushing to Qin Qianrou’s side, her heart aching to alleviate her pain.

“It’s nothing, I just burned myself.”

Shen Yiqiu carefully examined Qin Qianrou’s lips, thankfully, there were no blisters.

“Jiejie, you shouldn’t press your lips together when you burn yourself. I’ll get you some cold water.”

Shen Yiqiu darted into the kitchen, and before Qin Qianrou could even see her back clearly, she was back, a glass of water in hand.

“Drink some, to soothe your lips.”

Qin Qianrou took the glass and took a few sips. She deliberately avoided looking at Shen Yiqiu, but she could feel that burning gaze drawing closer.

Even cold water couldn’t alleviate the heat in her cheeks caused by the intense scrutiny, and Shen Yiqiu’s breaths brushed against her face.

Shen Yiqiu, trying to control her breathing, leaned closer and said, “Let me see how it is now.”

Qin Qianrou, seeing her concern, knew that if she refused, this child would worry all day.

Sighing inwardly, she put down the glass and parted her lips slightly, a faint redness still lingering on the spot where she had burned herself, but nothing serious.

Shen Yiqiu breathed a sigh of relief, glad it wasn’t serious.

But then, her gaze was drawn to those lips, unable to look away. She hadn’t had any impure thoughts initially, but now, something different stirred within her.

Those lips, rosy and full, always uttering words that made her heart flutter, yet also coldly pushing her away. Those lips, so meticulously cared for, today even more alluring, making her want to… kiss them.

Shen Yiqiu’s heart stirred, and so did she.

Sensing her approach, Qin Qianrou’s back stiffened, but she didn’t move.

Shen Yiqiu stared at her, her gaze deep and searching, as if trying to see through those beautiful eyes, to discern her true feelings.

She leaned closer, almost touching, and whispered, “Jiejie…”

Any other words, at this moment, seemed superfluous.

Shen Yiqiu wasn’t as nervous as before. Her heart racing, she just wanted to kiss her.

When you like someone, this is what it’s like, an uncontrollable urge to be close to them, to kiss them.

Inexperienced and unskilled, filled with love and sincerity, she leaned in a little further, her lips lightly brushing against those soft, full lips, sending a wave of heat through Qin Qianrou.

Shen Yiqiu’s fleeting touch brought Qin Qianrou back to her senses, and just as Shen Yiqiu was about to lean in again, she turned away.

“Shen Yiqiu, sit down.”

She couldn’t bring herself to say anything harsher, but her rejection was clear.

Shen Yiqiu froze, the light in her eyes dimming instantly, but she quickly realized her own transgression and numbly returned to her seat.

Qin Qianrou remained silent, avoiding Shen Yiqiu’s gaze. But Shen Yiqiu knew she was thinking about what had just happened.

She hadn’t seemed to dislike my approach, and when our lips touched, we had both felt… something, so why did she pull away?

Shen Yiqiu bit her lip, thinking for a moment, then decided she needed to formally confess her feelings to Jiejie. Having done such a thing, if she didn’t let Jiejie understand her intentions, wouldn’t it seem like she wasn’t serious?

She knew there were many casual relationships in university, brief encounters without much emotional investment, just to alleviate loneliness, or to satisfy youthful desires and vanity.

But she wasn’t like that, she truly liked Qin Qianrou, she admired her, she cared about her deeply. Shen Yiqiu felt she wouldn’t fall for anyone else, no one could make her heart flutter like Jiejie did.

So, what was she waiting for?

“Jiejie, actually I…”

Qin Qianrou seemed to anticipate her next words and quickly interrupted her. “I’m very tired from the flight today, I want to rest, you eat slowly.”

With that, she stood up and quickly left the dining room.

Shen Yiqiu froze, then stood up and followed her.

She followed her all the way to Qin Qianrou’s door, and Qin Qianrou, turning around, was about to close and lock the door. Shen Yiqiu quickly stopped her, placing her hand on the door.

“Jiejie, can you give me a chance to explain?”

Her gaze was intense, her affection undeniable, who wouldn’t understand her intentions?

Qin Qianrou sighed and looked at her, her eyes filled with helplessness and reluctance, but there was no affection.

Jiejie, do you really not like me? Not even a little? Shen Yiqiu’s heart ached, a wave of pain and bitterness washing over her.

But she didn’t retreat, she didn’t turn and leave, she wanted to fight for herself, one last time.

“Shen Yiqiu, you’re still young, there are more important things for you right now.”

Jiejie was mentioning her age again, would this ten-year gap be an insurmountable obstacle forever?

The light in Shen Yiqiu’s eyes dimmed, and she forced a smile, the best she could manage at the moment.

“I know my age might not be very convincing, but my feelings are real, my intentions are genuine. Why, just because I’m young, won’t you even give me a chance?”

Her words were restrained, without accusation or forcefulness, yet they were heartbreaking.

Qin Qianrou felt a pang of pain in her heart, Shen Yiqiu’s expression, her words, making it impossible for her to be completely heartless. But she didn’t have the courage to accept her feelings either.

This kind of affection was completely unexpected. Meeting Shen Yiqiu had been an accident, and Shen Yiqiu’s feelings were even more of a surprise.

Qin Qianrou’s silence made Shen Yiqiu’s heart sink. Jiejie was a good person, even when rejecting someone, she didn’t want to hurt them too deeply. Shen Yiqiu understood, Jiejie wasn’t willing.

Her hand slid down the door, her movements stiff and lifeless.

“Then rest well, Jiejie.”

Her retreating figure exuded an unbearable sadness, and Qin Qianrou couldn’t help but ask, “What are you going to do?”

Shen Yiqiu stopped, but she didn’t turn around. “I’m going to study, and then prepare dinner.”

Qin Qianrou pursed her lips, watching as Shen Yiqiu returned to the dining room, cleaned up everything, then quietly went back to her own room.

The warmth and joy of their reunion seemed like a dream, now replaced by endless sadness.

Qin Qianrou closed her door, leaning against it, her body feeling drained. Although her bed was just a few steps away, she couldn’t move.

The room had clearly been cleaned, the faint fragrance on the bedsheets the familiar scent of the laundry detergent they usually used. Shen Yiqiu had washed them, silently preparing for her return, but she hadn’t mentioned a word about it.

Qin Qianrou recalled the scene in the dining room, the moment their lips had touched.

This had been her first kiss, in the truest sense of the word, stolen by a child who secretly adored her. Although brief, it had been enough to unsettle Qin Qianrou.

However, despite the slight flutter in her heart, Qin Qianrou didn’t dare to let impulse overcome reason. Accepting Shen Yiqiu meant embarking on a difficult path, and she couldn’t guarantee she could protect her.

Her gaze was drawn to the bouquet of roses on the bookshelf. After all this time, they were still as vibrant as before. If they were real flowers, they would have long since withered and died.

So, had this child deliberately chosen these everlasting flowers for her?

Qin Qianrou couldn’t help but chuckle, her heart warming, a complex mix of emotions swirling within her.

Her sleep was restless, filled with an undefined worry. She finally drifted off for a while, only to wake up as evening approached.

The apartment was quiet, as if she was the only one home. Qin Qianrou walked to the living room, and as expected, it was empty.

She hesitated, then walked over to Shen Yiqiu’s door, surprised to find it slightly ajar. Qin Qianrou wasn’t sure if she should enter, she waited for a moment, but the person inside didn’t seem to notice her presence.

Looking closer, she saw Shen Yiqiu asleep at her desk.

 

Chapter 61

Li Wan and Lin Shuangzhi’s Spanish dinner lasted a long time, as if they were truly in Spain. Following local customs, dinner extended until almost 10 pm. When they finally left the restaurant, although not that late, it was past 9 pm, not in line with Meng City’s fast-paced rhythm, but Li Wan was content.

She had had some wine during dinner, not much, just enough to give her cheeks a rosy flush, adding to her charm. She had suggested Lin Shuangzhi have a drink as well, they could always call a designated driver, but Lin Shuangzhi had simply smiled and shaken her head, not stopping her from indulging.

The night air was chilly, and as they left the restaurant, a gust of wind blew before they could even fully button their coats, making those already slightly flushed from the warmth and the wine shiver slightly.

Lin Shuangzhi, at some point, moved closer, her arm brushing against Li Wan’s, almost touching.

“Cold? It’s windy tonight, don’t catch a cold.” Lin Shuangzhi looked at her, subtly shifting her body to shield her from the wind.

Li Wan, emboldened by the slight alcohol, leaned against her, her voice languid. “I didn’t feel it earlier, but now with the wind, I am a little cold.”

Lin Shuangzhi’s hand lifted slightly, and Li Wan, catching a glimpse of it from the corner of her eye, pursed her lips, pretending not to notice, subtly leaning closer to Lin Shuangzhi.

“Let’s get in the car, I’ll drive you home.”

The restaurant had been established years ago, before the city’s infrastructure was as developed, so the parking lot was completely open-air. Surrounded by restaurants, it was almost always full at night, and sometimes, just finding your car could take a while.

Li Wan stood there, not moving. As dinner ended, she had been thinking, what should they do next? They had had a pleasant conversation tonight, starting with work, then gradually shifting to their personal lives, then becoming completely open and unrestrained, talking about everything and anything.

This made Li Wan feel comfortable and at ease, as if the distance between her and the team leader had suddenly shortened. They had even reminisced about when she had first joined the station after graduating, learning the ropes under Lin Shuangzhi’s guidance. She had thought the team leader had long forgotten, but it turned out she still remembered those details.

This made Li Wan’s heart sweet, the bitterness and uncertainty of her unrequited feelings gradually replaced by a sliver of hope, and now she was ready to make her move.

If not for this pleasant evening, Li Wan wouldn’t have realized how happy she could be. It had been a long time since she had felt this mix of excitement, shyness, anticipation, and sweetness, even during her relationship with Zhuo Cheng, she hadn’t experienced such a complex range of emotions.

If this wasn’t love, then what was?

“I don’t want to go home so early.” Li Wan softly voiced her thoughts, and Lin Shuangzhi looked at her intently.

Slightly embarrassed, she still tried to appear nonchalant, her eyes half-closed. “What, are you in a hurry to go back and work overtime?”

Lin Shuangzhi gently stroked her hair, a light touch that sent shivers down Li Wan’s spine.

“I’m worried you’re tipsy and might not feel well if you stay out too late.”

The team leader’s gentle tone, filled with concern and care, made Li Wan pinch herself, thinking she must be dreaming.

Before she could respond, she heard someone calling her name.

“Xiao Wan, is that really you?”

She turned around and saw Zhuo Cheng approaching quickly. He was wearing a strong cologne, which even his business jacket couldn’t mask, and Li Wan felt a wave of nausea.

Seeing her slightly dazed expression, Zhuo Cheng suppressed his initial joy, his voice filled with concern and a hint of displeasure. “Have you been drinking?”

Li Wan in university, although straightforward and bold, hadn’t been fond of alcohol. It was unclear where the rumor had originated, but after Zhuo Cheng’s departure for overseas, it was said that Miss Li had become fond of drinking.

From then on, “drowning her sorrows in alcohol” had become Li Wan’s portrayal.

Zhuo Cheng regretted it, he had harmed her. But Xiao Wan had always refused to relent, unwilling to give him a chance to make amends.

“Just a little, I’m not drunk, don’t worry.” Li Wan straightened up slightly, but she still remained close to Lin Shuangzhi.

On this cold night, only by staying close to the team leader could she stay warm, she didn’t want to move away.

Zhuo Cheng reached out to steady her, but before his hand could reach her, he saw Li Wan leaning into another person’s embrace.

“I’ll take care of her.”

Zhuo Cheng looked at the person, who smiled and nodded at him, but he couldn’t detect any warmth in the gesture.

He awkwardly withdrew his hand, still maintaining his gentlemanly demeanor. “You’re Team Leader Lin, right?”

Lin Shuangzhi raised an eyebrow, surprised that Zhuo Cheng knew her.

“I’ve seen you outside the television station. I haven’t had a chance to thank you, I didn’t expect to run into you here tonight.”

Lin Shuangzhi looked at him, amused. “Thank me?”

Zhuo Cheng looked at Li Wan tenderly and slowly said, “Thank you for taking such good care of Xiao Wan since she joined the station. She told me her work experience at the television station has been very rewarding and fulfilling.”

His tone sounded like a farewell speech for someone about to resign and become a full-time housewife. Thankfully, they were all seasoned reporters, accustomed to all sorts of bizarre stories, so they didn’t take it seriously.

But Li Wan was still furious. There was nothing going on between her and Zhuo Cheng, let alone rekindling their past relationship. Even those few dinners she had reluctantly agreed to, just to gather information about Dongsheng, she had maintained a clear distance, never saying anything remotely ambiguous.

Yet he was spouting such nonsense in front of the team leader! What if she misunderstood?

Li Wan’s anger flared, the slight alcohol-induced dizziness vanishing completely. She straightened up, wanting to clarify this ambiguous and misleading situation.

To her surprise, the usually reserved team leader spoke first. “There’s no need to thank me, taking care of Xiao Wan is my responsibility. And I’ve also enjoyed working with her.”

So, it was none of his business.

Zhuo Cheng’s face paled slightly. He had been here for a while, and Li Wan hadn’t even looked at him properly. And now, even Lin Shuangzhi seemed to be dismissing him. He sometimes wondered if there were too many eligible bachelors at the television station, which was why these women weren’t interested in him.

He had to admit, in any other setting, his presence would definitely attract attention. Especially within Dongsheng, many young female employees had a crush on him.

Footsteps approached, and Lin Shuangzhi saw the person walking towards them from behind Zhuo Cheng: Shao Qidong.

“What a coincidence, I didn’t expect to run into two beautiful ladies here.”

Zhuo Cheng introduced him. “This is Mr. Shao, CEO of Dongsheng Group, we were discussing business at Xing Lang Hotel tonight. We were just about to leave when we saw you, so we thought we’d come over and say hello.”

With his boss present, Zhuo Cheng suppressed his lovesick behavior and regained his usual composure. He didn’t want to embarrass himself in front of Shao Qidong, being rejected once was enough.

His pride wouldn’t allow him to reveal his vulnerability, especially not to the person who had paid a hefty price to recruit him from overseas.

“Mr. Shao, it’s been a while.” Their last close encounter had been at the meeting where Shao Qidong had discussed Dongsheng’s advertising plans for the next year.

As the biggest spender on advertising at the station, Shao Qidong had naturally been treated with utmost courtesy by the station directors. Department heads from relevant departments had been present, even Lin Shuangzhi, whose work wasn’t directly related to advertising, had been called in.

The directors had said it was to show their respect for Dongsheng Group. But Lin Shuangzhi knew it was also a subtle message to Shao Qidong, that a large advertising budget could significantly reduce the likelihood of Dongsheng Group appearing in negative news reports.

Lin Shuangzhi had barely spoken at the meeting, but there was no denying Shao Qidong’s influence within the station. He had good relationships with several station directors, and several department heads were also eager to please him. After all, he was a prominent figure in the city, with close ties to Deputy Provincial Governor Xu, clearly someone they couldn’t afford to offend.

Shao Qidong maintained a polite but distant demeanor, purely business-like and perfunctory. Compared to Zhuo Cheng, his thoughts were even more difficult to decipher.

“My car is over there, do you need a ride?” Shao Qidong pointed to his Bentley and his driver waiting in the distance.

“No need to trouble you, Mr. Shao, we have other plans.”

Lin Shuangzhi’s arm, at some point, had snaked around Li Wan’s, her grip tightening. This sudden embrace extinguished the anger that had been building within Li Wan, and she leaned against her weakly.

Only after the two men, who had inexplicably appeared, had left, did Li Wan finally recover.

“Where are we going now?”

Lin Shuangzhi loosened her grip slightly, but her arm remained around Li Wan.

“If you’re still up for it, let’s go for a drink.”

Lin Shuangzhi taking the initiative to suggest a change of venue should have delighted Li Wan, but she couldn’t help but frown.

She could sense the tension in the team leader’s demeanor after Shao Qidong’s appearance.

Lin Shuangzhi was unhappy.

Li Wan looked at her intently. “Okay, I’ll go with you.”

Whether you’re happy or sad, I’m willing to be there for you.

**

Sitting in the Bentley, Zhuo Cheng was sullen and silent. Shao Qidong, however, was in a good mood, casually tapping his fingers on his leg.

Tonight’s dinner hadn’t been an important social engagement, they had simply dined with a few department heads from the television station. Thankfully, they had left separately; being seen with Lin Shuangzhi and Li Wan wouldn’t have been a good thing.

“Zhuo Cheng, what are your thoughts on tonight’s situation?” Shao Qidong looked out the window, his tone casual.

“The television station?”

“I’m not interested in your personal life.”

Zhuo Cheng felt a pang of awkwardness, the secret he had been trying so hard to hide seemingly transparent to his boss.

He organized his thoughts. “Judging by their hints tonight, a restructuring at the television station is inevitable. The station director is about to retire, and the deputy directors have always been at odds, it’s hard to say who will take over.”

“What, after interacting with Deputy Mayor Li for so long, you haven’t gleaned any information?”

Zhuo Cheng’s awkwardness intensified. He didn’t know what Li Wan had told her family, but recently, his invitations to the Li residence had been few and far between.

And Uncle Li no longer seemed as eager to encourage their relationship, which made him feel even more anxious.

“Deputy Mayor Li always keeps his professional and personal life separate, he probably wouldn’t even reveal anything to Li Wan, let alone me.”

Zhuo Cheng’s words were reasonable, and Shao Qidong didn’t press further. Dealing with these government officials, impatience was a fatal flaw. Many things were learned through subtle observation and intuition; these masters wouldn’t reveal anything directly, it was all up to you to decipher.

“Dongsheng invested such a large sum in advertising, there should be some results, we can’t just throw money down the drain.”

“I’ll follow up on that.”

Shao Qidong then turned around, a playful look on his face.

“It’s time for the overseas branch to take action. After the New Year, we’ll start with a few smaller projects, to test the market.”

Zhuo Cheng nodded, confident about this matter.

But he still had some concerns. “But the television station…”

Shao Qidong chuckled, “After the New Year, with the new management team in place, there will definitely be a departmental restructuring. Who will have the time to focus on Dongsheng then?”

Although he said this, Qin Qianrou wasn’t easily swayed.

“As for the person you’re worried about, I have my own arrangements.”

If a hard approach didn’t work, then a soft approach would.

The He Chao couple’s downfall had made Shao Qidong more cautious, but business had to continue, and those he dealt with wouldn’t tolerate his prolonged inactivity. Faced with such enormous profits, he had to take risks.

“It’s no secret that the Li family is protecting Qin Qianrou in Meng City.”

Zhuo Cheng still felt a hint of apprehension towards this former “Ice Queen.”

“Then just get her out of Meng City. She’s on a training assignment now, and there will be more opportunities for her to be away in the future.”

Shao Qidong’s sinister smile sent chills down Zhuo Cheng’s spine, despite the warm car.

**

The training program finally had a short break. Wen Yirong, as always, was well-informed. As soon as Qin Qianrou submitted her request for leave, her mother’s call followed.

“Xiao Rou, are you staying at home this weekend, or at the villa?”

Qin Qianrou, packing her suitcase, paused. “Mom, I’m planning to return to Meng City.”

Wen Yirong was surprised; she hadn’t heard anything about this, she had assumed Qianrou would stay in Hai City.

“What, is there something urgent you need to handle in Meng City?” Although it was just a long weekend, traveling back and forth was still tiring.

Qin Qianrou wouldn’t make such an effort if it wasn’t something important.

“Not exactly urgent, but I do need to go back.”

Wen Yirong was reluctant for her to leave. She had sent soup and supplements several times during the training program, which Qin Qianrou had reluctantly accepted, but it hadn’t eased her longing for her daughter.

“If it’s not urgent, can’t it wait until your next break?”

This was Qin Qianrou’s first break since starting the training program; she should be spending time with her family, after all, her home was in Hai City. Yet she was rushing back to Meng City, making those who didn’t know her think she had another family there.

“Mom, do you have something planned?”

Although Wen Yirong often checked on her daughter’s attitude and intentions, she rarely tried to influence her decisions. Sensing something else in her mother’s tone, Qin Qianrou closed her suitcase and sat down on the bed.

Wen Yirong was silent for a moment, then said softly, “Your grandfather wants you to come home, he said you haven’t been back in a long time, and you should meet some people.”

Her previous two trips back with Shen Yiqiu had been for specific purposes, brief and hurried, and Wen Yirong naturally hadn’t wanted to impose on her, keeping her visits a secret. However, the patent donation had involved many people and attracted wider attention, naturally catching the attention of the elders.

Qin Qianrou, hearing this arrangement, guessed who she was supposed to meet. Her uncle’s words had been clear; the elders felt it was time for their generation to settle down and get married.

Qin Qianrou had always been indifferent to marriage, she simply wasn’t interested, she didn’t want to waste her time on such things.

But now, she felt conflicted. Whenever she thought about relationships, she could no longer maintain her previous indifference. She was gradually becoming more involved, caught in a situation she couldn’t escape, yet desperately wanted to break free from.

“Xiao Rou, don’t worry, I know how you feel, I won’t force you. But we have to appease your grandfather, he’s getting old, it’s best to indulge him whenever possible.”

“I’m open to discussion about other matters, but those meetings grandfather arranged… let’s skip those.” Qin Qianrou truly loathed those pretentious blind dates; the bizarre experiences Li Wan had shared were enough for her to understand the situation.

“There aren’t many, just one or two. You know your grandfather has always favored the Cheng family, he’s been talking about it for years, it wouldn’t be appropriate to avoid them completely.”

“Mom, let’s talk about it when I come back. I really don’t have time this week.”

Wen Yirong knew her daughter didn’t want to discuss this further, having conveyed the message, she considered her duty fulfilled. Deep down, she also hoped her daughter would find someone she could rely on, not necessarily someone wealthy or influential, just someone who would truly cherish and protect Qianrou.

Qianrou’s personality was too cold and aloof, yet also stubborn, once she set her mind on something, she wouldn’t give up until she achieved it. This made her parents both proud and worried, they hoped someone could be there for her, to share her burdens.

Unlike Wen Yirong’s disappointment, Shen Yiqiu was ecstatic. Ever since she learned Jiejie was coming back, she had been unable to sleep, counting down the days.

But she also felt time was slipping away too quickly. After finishing her quizzes, she rushed to the supermarket to buy groceries. However, a few of the ingredients in the online recipes she had found were uncommon, not available in the upscale supermarket in their complex.

Shen Yiqiu chose a morning when she didn’t have class and, after several bus transfers, finally reached the farmer’s market, using photos on her phone to find the ingredients she needed.

She knew Jiejie’s visit was rare, so she wanted to make as many different flavors of wontons as possible, carefully selecting ingredients and preparing five different fillings.

The fridge was packed with small bags of wontons, and Shen Yiqiu beamed, delighted with her accomplishment.

This was completely different from when she was alone at home; having something to look forward to filled her with motivation.

Her long-suppressed yearning gradually surfaced, and Shen Yiqiu couldn’t contain her excitement.

Li Wan drove Qin Qianrou home from the airport, but she didn’t even go upstairs. After parking Qin Qianrou’s car in its usual spot, she simply waved goodbye and left.

Qin Qianrou had perfunctorily invited her up, but Li Wan had declined with a chuckle.

“Qianrou, you’ve finally returned, I won’t disturb you at a time like this.”

Then, she meaningfully scrutinized Qin Qianrou from head to toe, before adding, as she left, “Your makeup looks nice today.”

Qin Qianrou, usually calm and composed, blushed slightly. Thankfully, Li Wan had left; otherwise, she didn’t know how long she would be teased for.

Opening the door, the slippers by the entrance were neatly arranged, just as always, waiting for her return.

Shen Yiqiu practically ran out, then stopped a few steps away.

Her gaze was fixed on Qin Qianrou, unable to look away.

“Jiejie, you’re back.”

Qin Qianrou wanted to avoid that direct and intense gaze, but she couldn’t. Shen Yiqiu seemed to have lost some weight during her absence.

She looked down and pushed her suitcase against the wall. “Mm, I had some time off, came back to take care of a few things.”

Shen Yiqiu hadn’t expected Qin Qianrou to come back specifically for her, whatever the reason, as long as Jiejie was back, it was good. She was easily content, so she was happy now.

Her happiness was infectious, dispelling Qin Qianrou’s travel fatigue and the strange awkwardness she had been feeling. Shen Yiqiu, as usual, took her hand and led her to the sofa.

She looked Qin Qianrou over carefully, then said, her voice filled with concern, “The training must have been tiring, you’ve lost so much weight.”

It was Shen Yiqiu who had actually lost weight, but she only noticed the subtle changes in Qin Qianrou. Staying at a hotel wasn’t exactly comfortable, but with the supplements Wen Yirong constantly sent over, Qin Qianrou had only lost a couple of pounds.

“You’re the one who’s thin as a rail, and you’re saying I’ve lost weight?” Qin Qianrou stood up and walked towards the kitchen.

Shen Yiqiu quickly followed. “Jiejie, let me make you a bowl of wontons.”

It wasn’t dinnertime yet, and Qin Qianrou had eaten on the plane, so she wasn’t particularly hungry.

But being back home, she suddenly had a craving for them.

“The kind Xiao Wan had last time?”

Qin Qianrou walked over to Shen Yiqiu and watched as she took small bags of wontons out of the freezer. She had been a little surprised earlier, seeing so many wontons in the fridge.

Shen Yiqiu turned and smiled at her. “No, the filling is different this time.”

Qin Qianrou’s lips curved slightly, and she asked, “What’s different?”

“It’s a new recipe I learned online, I had to go to the farmer’s market to find the ingredients.” Then, as if remembering something, she chuckled and said, “And I won’t put so many scallions in yours.”

Qin Qianrou didn’t like scallions, even as a seasoning, she preferred less.

So, Shen Yiqiu used sesame oil instead, fragrant and thoughtful.

Qin Qianrou sat at the dining table, and they each had a bowl of wontons, not saying much, but both feeling content.

Qin Qianrou focused on her food, while Shen Yiqiu kept stealing glances at her, which Qin Qianrou noticed, but she didn’t say anything at first. Until, halfway through her bowl, that child was still staring.

“Shen Yiqiu, what are you looking at?”

Perhaps even she hadn’t realized it, but her tone was slightly different from her usual calm indifference, a subtle hint of playfulness that warmed Shen Yiqiu’s heart.

“I wanted to ask, how does it taste?”

“Delicious, of course, otherwise, why would I have eaten so much?”

This was true; Qin Qianrou was indeed enjoying her meal.

Shen Yiqiu smiled, as if she had more to say.

Qin Qianrou, feeling slightly flustered under her intense gaze, couldn’t avoid it and simply endured it, her heart racing.

“Jiejie, you look beautiful today.”

Shen Yiqiu’s soft whisper, she had been captivated from the moment she saw her. But the initial joy of their reunion had clouded her mind, and only now did she realize the source of the heart-fluttering impact the moment she opened the door.

Jiejie, you’re so beautiful today, so beautiful I want to keep looking at you forever.

Chapter 60

Cousin? Li Wan was momentarily stunned by this unexpected term of address. She knew Yuan Qi, she knew Shen Yiqiu, but she hadn’t known about their relationship.

Yuan Qi, waiting for a moment without a response from Li Wan, put away his playful demeanor; after all, Miss Li’s temper wasn’t easy to deal with.

“Li Wan, actually I…”

“We’ll settle this when we meet.” Then, turning to Shen Yiqiu, she added, “I have more important matters to attend to right now.”

With that, without waiting for Yuan Qi’s response, she hung up.

She gently tossed the phone back to Shen Yiqiu, observing her protectively clutching it, her suspicions deepening. She walked to the door, took off her high heels, returned to the living room, sat down on the sofa, crossed her legs, and looked at Shen Yiqiu with her arms crossed.

“Suddenly feeling a little hungry, I think I’ll have a late-night snack before leaving.”

“What do you want to eat?”

“Whatever you usually make for Qianrou.”

Shen Yiqiu pursed her lips, took off her jacket, and quickly went to the kitchen.

She hadn’t returned home too late, and after bustling about in the kitchen for a while, she emerged with a bowl of small wontons. A small serving, but quite tempting.

Li Wan, feeling tired, smelled the aroma and realized she was also hungry. She casually tied up her hair, sat down at the dining table, and seeing only one bowl, said, slightly displeased, “You’re not eating?”

Shen Yiqiu pulled out a chair and sat down beside her, smiling faintly. “I just had Korean BBQ with my cousin, I’m stuffed.”

Li Wan didn’t stand on ceremony, stirred the wontons with her spoon, and took a bite. They were delicious.

“What brand is this?” She thought she should buy some and keep them at home for whenever she had a craving.

“I made them myself. There are some left in the fridge, I can pack some for you if you like.”

Li Wan was surprised. “You made these?”

“It’s quite simple, just a little troublesome to prepare the filling, but you can find recipes online. I tried it a few times, and after some practice, it becomes quite quick.” Shen Yiqiu didn’t hide anything, adding, “I’ve tried the store-bought ones a few times, they’re just not as good.”

Both she and Qin Qianrou were from Hai City, and they had a special fondness for small wontons. Naturally, they were also picky about the taste. The frozen ones from the supermarket were just… passable.

Li Wan ate a few more wontons before slowing down.

“Shen Yiqiu, you’re becoming more and more resourceful.”

Her words were a bit cryptic, and Shen Yiqiu, looking at Li Wan’s knowing smile, tried to decipher their meaning.

“You’ve put a lot of thought into Qianrou, haven’t you?” Li Wan casually dropped another bombshell, enough to make Shen Yiqiu explode on the spot.

“I…” Shen Yiqiu wanted to deny it, but she suddenly felt a wave of helplessness.

Everyone around her seemed to have seen through her, yet she had to repeatedly deny and conceal her feelings. Were these feelings truly so unacceptable?

Li Wan’s tone was unreadable, and Shen Yiqiu didn’t know what to say. Li Wan was close to Qin Qianrou, and she was afraid of accidentally revealing her secret, which would be equivalent to telling Jiejie directly.

Although, she suspected Jiejie already knew.

“Qianrou has been alone all these years, it must have been hard for her.” Li Wan looked down, stirring the wontons in her bowl, her tone unchanged.

“She works so hard, that’s why I want to do everything I can to help her.” Recalling her cousin’s stories about Qin Qianrou’s past, Shen Yiqiu’s heart ached for her hardworking Jiejie.

“So, are you serious?”

Hmm? What’s with Sister Li Wan today?

She had been acting strangely ever since that phone call with her cousin. She usually teased her whenever she came over for dinner, but tonight, her demeanor was clearly different.

“I’m asking you, are you serious about your care and concern for Qianrou?” She emphasized her question.

Shen Yiqiu sensed something different in her eyes, and she wondered, Is it as I suspect? Is Sister Li Wan probing my feelings, or is she just asking a normal question?

Just admit it, there’s nothing wrong with liking someone. Even if Jiejie didn’t reciprocate her feelings, at least her intentions were true.

Shen Yiqiu looked at Li Wan earnestly and nodded firmly. “Very serious.”

Li Wan’s expression seemed to say, As I expected. Shen Yiqiu’s heart skipped a beat.

She braced herself for the next question, but Li Wan didn’t say anything more.

After a long look, Li Wan suddenly said, “Shen Yiqiu, don’t disappoint me.”

Then, she beckoned Shen Yiqiu closer. “Since you’re serious, then let’s test Qianrou’s reaction.”

An hour later, a photo of a steaming, tempting bowl of small wontons appeared on Li Wan’s WeChat Moments.

The caption read: Exhausted after a long day at work, but healed by a simple late-night snack. Thank you, kiddo. Heart emoji. Photo.jpg

Having wontons for a late-night snack wasn’t unusual, but what was unusual was that the photo didn’t show any people, only the placemat and the pattern on the edge of the bowl, clearly focused. It was unclear whether she was showcasing the tableware or the food.

Soon, comments started pouring in. Some advised her to take care of herself and not overwork; some were drawn in by the wontons, accusing her of tempting them late at night; some jokingly asked if she had finally found someone to make her late-night snacks.

Li Wan replied to a few comments, then put down her phone and went to take a shower.

Shen Yiqiu, after seeing Li Wan off and tidying up, finally sat down, intending to do some reading. As soon as she opened WeChat, she saw Li Wan’s post.

She read it several times, as if in disbelief.

Li Wan hadn’t praised the wontons like this all evening, she had simply said they were delicious and thanked her for the effort. Why the sudden change in style on her WeChat Moments?

She shook her head, not bothering to comment, it would seem like she was fishing for compliments. She casually liked the post and opened her textbook. There was a quiz next week, it wasn’t a major part of her grade, but Shen Yiqiu still wanted to do well.

A new message arrived. Opening it, she saw it was from Qin Qianrou.

[Studying?]

Shen Yiqiu quickly picked up her phone, a smile already forming on her lips before she even replied.

[Just started. ]

Then, she held her phone, waiting for the next message, but Jiejie’s reply was slow.

Thinking she might be busy, Shen Yiqiu didn’t rush her, holding her phone in one hand, flipping through her textbook with the other.

A few minutes later, Qin Qianrou’s message finally arrived.

[Xiao Wan picked up some documents for me tonight, thank you for taking care of her. ]

Shen Yiqiu was a little surprised; when had Jiejie become so polite?

Besides, it was just a bowl of wontons, hardly a grand gesture of hospitality. However, the filling was a new recipe she had learned online, and she hadn’t had a chance to make it for Jiejie yet.

[Don’t mention it, Jiejie, it was nothing. ]

Then, there was no response from Qin Qianrou.

Shen Yiqiu waited for a while, fifteen minutes passed, and it seemed Jiejie wasn’t going to reply anymore. This was normal for them; sometimes Qin Qianrou would suddenly get busy, and by the time she was free, hours would have passed.

Shen Yiqiu was used to this. They had an unspoken understanding; if there was nothing important, then the conversation was considered over.

But ten minutes later, another message from Qin Qianrou arrived.

[I should have some time off next weekend, I might be coming back. ]

[Really? That’s great! Jiejie, let me know in advance, so I can prepare. ]

[Prepare what?]

[Lots of delicious food, waiting for you to come back and enjoy. ]

Shen Yiqiu smiled as she messaged Qin Qianrou, as if Jiejie was returning tomorrow.

[I’m not that obsessed with food, no need to go to so much trouble. ]

Shen Yiqiu knew Jiejie would definitely tell her to focus on her studies.

[I understand, I’ll prioritize my studies. ]

Five minutes later, Qin Qianrou sent a final message, ending the conversation.

[Thank you for your effort. ]

[Rest early, good night. ]

[Good night, Jiejie!]

Shen Yiqiu, who had been feeling exhausted all day, suddenly felt energized.

Her drowsiness vanished, and her study efficiency greatly increased; it seemed Jiejie was her energizer.

**

The next day after work, Li Wan, bag in hand, emerged from her office and ran into Lin Shuangzhi at the doorway, who seemed to be looking for her.

“Team Leader, are you looking for me?”

“Mm, just finished a meeting.”

Li Wan understood; Lin Shuangzhi returning from a meeting just before the end of the workday was perfectly normal. And as usual, she would now proceed to work overtime, catching up on the day’s tasks.

She wondered if she should order takeout for the team leader before leaving, otherwise, she would probably rummage through her office for those strange snacks again, those things were truly frightening.

To her surprise, Lin Shuangzhi simply stood there, not returning to her own office.

Li Wan looked at her curiously. “Something you wanted to discuss?”

She thought it must be a new assignment from the meeting, or perhaps a change in their work arrangements. Although she didn’t want to work overtime, working overtime with the team leader was… bearable.

Li Wan mentally prepared herself for another late night.

Lin Shuangzhi cleared her throat and asked, “Are you free tonight?”

Li Wan nodded, a hint of resignation in her tone. “Nothing urgent.”

“Want to have dinner together?”

Li Wan, accepting her fate, took out her phone and opened the familiar food delivery app.

“Sure, what do you want to eat tonight?”

After waiting for a moment without a response, she looked up and met the team leader’s slightly exasperated gaze.

“Xiao Wan, I meant, going out for dinner.”

Lin Shuangzhi reached over and swiped away the food delivery app on her phone.

“Oh, then you better hurry up and pack up, otherwise, we’ll have to wait for a table.”

Lin Shuangzhi quickly returned to her office, and Li Wan slowly followed, pausing at the doorway. Only now did she realize, had Lin Shuangzhi just asked her out?

Lin Shuangzhi had invited her out a few times before, but those were just casual after-work drinks, not a proper date. But tonight was different, dinner took much longer than drinks. And after dinner, they could still go for drinks.

Thinking this, Li Wan felt a surge of anticipation, looking forward to spending time with the team leader tonight.

Lin Shuangzhi tidied up her desk, locked important documents in her drawer, turned off her computer, grabbed her bag and coat from the rack, and without any hesitation, closed the office door.

Li Wan, observing her actions, smiled faintly. It seemed the team leader wasn’t just a workaholic; at least today, having dinner with her was clearly more important than work, this realization pleased her.

But she wouldn’t let Lin Shuangzhi see that.

Having silently accompanied her through countless late nights, losing her composure now just because of a dinner invitation wasn’t her style. But Lin Shuangzhi’s initiative still made her heart flutter; who wouldn’t be happy when the person they liked approached them?

Walking to the parking lot with Lin Shuangzhi, Li Wan wondered if she should drive.

Lin Shuangzhi, however, preempted her question, “Let’s take my car.”

Li Wan immediately agreed, then hesitantly asked, “How will I get to work tomorrow then?”

Her family had a driver, and she could always call a taxi, but she still preferred driving herself.

Lin Shuangzhi’s reply was matter-of-fact. “I’ll pick you up.”

Li Wan looked at Lin Shuangzhi’s back, ???

She felt that the team leader was acting strangely today, like a different person.

Reaching the car, Lin Shuangzhi opened the door and, seeing Li Wan still walking slowly, lost in thought, chuckled, looking at her, “Weren’t you just rushing me, saying we’d have to wait for a table if we were late? Now you’re so leisurely, not worried about waiting anymore?”

Li Wan walked over and stood across from her, separated by the car.

“Why are you…” acting so differently?

Lin Shuangzhi, seemingly oblivious, still looking at her, asked, “So, do you want to have dinner or not?” She thought for a moment, then added, “Or, should we take your car?”

Li Wan immediately objected, “No, I want to have some wine tonight, I’m not driving.”

If I drive myself, how can I make you pick me up tomorrow? Hmph!

Li Wan smoothed her long, wavy hair, the curls cascading down her back, adding to her charm. She got into the car, and the car was instantly filled with the scent of her perfume.

Lin Shuangzhi followed, pleased with the change in fragrance, a faint smile playing on her lips.

“Where do you want to eat?” Li Wan opened her phone, realizing there were so many restaurants in Meng City, yet she couldn’t choose one.

“Anywhere is fine, you decide.” Lin Shuangzhi, focusing on driving, seemed perfectly content with letting Li Wan make the decision.

“Why do I always have to decide, don’t you have any preferences?” Li Wan’s frustration grew, recalling how Lin Shuangzhi always let her choose when they ordered takeout during overtime.

It’s always me making the decisions, can’t you be more proactive?

Lin Shuangzhi didn’t understand her sudden annoyance and simply chuckled good-naturedly. “You’re better at choosing than I am. Besides, I want you to enjoy your meal, so naturally, your preference is more important.”

Li Wan knew this, but she was still annoyed by Lin Shuangzhi’s lack of initiative. However, hearing her words, her heart couldn’t help but flutter. The team leader caring about her, that was a good thing.

Since confessing her feelings to Qin Qianrou, Li Wan had made up her mind; she wouldn’t succumb to her family’s arrangements and go on pointless blind dates anymore.

These precious years, this beautiful youth, should be spent with the person she loved. She was almost thirty, and the team leader had already passed that milestone, if they continued like this, they would both become pitiful, single, middle-aged women.

Li Wan decided that as she embraced her own feelings, she would also gently nudge Lin Shuangzhi in the same direction. Even if their feelings weren’t perfectly aligned, at least they would be entangled, inseparable.

This… was a good plan.

Thinking this, her mood brightened, feeling that tonight was a good start, at least the team leader was taking a step towards her.

“What are you thinking about?” Lin Shuangzhi, sensing the shift in her mood, couldn’t help but ask.

“Wondering why you suddenly decided to invite me to dinner.”

“After the meeting, it was just the two of us left, is it so strange to have dinner together?”

Li Wan rolled her eyes inwardly, thinking, You weren’t like this before.

We’ve been alone before, and you still buried yourself in work after a few words.

“It’s… nice, just not your usual style.”

Lin Shuangzhi, waiting at a red light, turned to look at her. “What’s my usual style?”

The style of a workaholic robot, oblivious to everything but work.

Li Wan wanted to say this, but the words that came out were, “Overly dedicated, working so hard your subordinates are in awe.”

Lin Shuangzhi burst out laughing. “Xiao Wan, I didn’t expect that’s how you see me. It seems I need to be more mindful in the future, so you can see the real me.”

Li Wan bit her lip, Lin Shuangzhi’s words playing on repeat in her mind.

She felt there was a hidden meaning in the team leader’s words, but she had no proof.

Seeing Li Wan’s silence, Lin Shuangzhi glanced at her a few more times. The light turned green, and she slowly started the car, her gaze deep with an affection Li Wan couldn’t see.

They ended up at a Spanish seafood restaurant Li Wan frequented. Their paella was authentic, and she often came here with Qin Qianrou. But this was her first time here with the team leader.

This restaurant had been around for many years, she had first come here with Qin Qianrou during their university days. In a way, they were both creatures of habit, loyal to the things they liked.

“This place is good, authentic ingredients and flavors.” Li Wan introduced the restaurant to Lin Shuangzhi after they got out of the car.

“Such a popular place, we’ll probably have to wait for a while.”

“Don’t worry, since I brought you here, I won’t let you wait.”

Lin Shuangzhi looked at her with amusement, seeing Li Wan waving her phone triumphantly, a smug look on her face. “I’m a loyal customer of many years, a VIP, I have special privileges.”

Lin Shuangzhi chuckled and shook her head. “Cutting in line isn’t a good habit.”

Li Wan walked around the car and stood beside Lin Shuangzhi. They were around the same height, and standing side by side, they made a striking pair.

Unlike Qin Qianrou’s aloofness, Lin Shuangzhi exuded a more mature aura, elegant yet calm, composed yet tolerant. Li Wan, standing beside her, felt like a kitten, wanting to lean against her.

“Don’t make me sound like someone who disregards rules. This restaurant reserves tables for their regular customers, you have to be very familiar with the owner to get this privilege. Qianrou and I have been coming here for eight years!”

Lin Shuangzhi listened with a smile, thinking that Li Wan after work was truly adorable, even more so than at the office.

After ordering, Lin Shuangzhi went to the restroom. Li Wan couldn’t wait to message Qin Qianrou, to share the news of the team leader having initiated their dinner date.

[Qianrou, guess where I am?]

She attached a photo of the restaurant’s entrance, a distinctive design, easily recognizable to those familiar with the place.

As expected, Qin Qianrou replied quickly.

[Are you deliberately trying to make me jealous, making me crave paella?]

[You’ve misunderstood. I just wanted to say, the person I’m having dinner with tonight is the team leader, hehe. ]

Qin Qianrou facepalmed. After a whole day of training, she had finally returned to her room to rest, and just as she emerged from the shower and ordered room service, she received Li Wan’s message, it was truly infuriating.

[Isn’t this exactly what you wanted?]

[It is, it seems Cupid is busy this winter, Meng City’s romance index is off the charts. ]

Qin Qianrou sighed, Li Wan always became so animated when talking about love.

[Come back and visit when you’re free, soak in some of Meng City’s romantic aura. Even your little one has better luck than you, if you don’t come back soon, you’ll be left behind. ]

Qin Qianrou frowned. Shen Yiqiu’s romantic luck?

[Didn’t you say she’s been quite normal lately?]

Li Wan twirled a strand of hair around her finger, a mischievous smile on her face as she typed, [Oh, she’s doing great, frequently being taken out for dinner, personally escorted home, then bombarded with caring phone calls, I’ve heard it with my own ears. ]

Qin Qianrou’s replies slowed down. Lin Shuangzhi, returning from the restroom, noticed that Li Wan’s mood had improved.

“Who are you messaging, chatting so happily?”

“I sent a photo of the restaurant to Qianrou, to make her jealous, so she’ll come back from Hai City.”

Hearing it was Qin Qianrou, Lin Shuangzhi secretly breathed a sigh of relief. She unfolded her napkin and placed it on her lap.

“I heard there’s a three-day break next weekend, she should be coming back then.”

Li Wan’s eyes lit up. “Really?”

Lin Shuangzhi nodded noncommittally just as the appetizers arrived.

Then, Qin Qianrou’s message finally arrived.

[I’ll be back in Hai City next weekend. ]

Li Wan’s smile widened. [That’s more like it, come back and keep an eye on your little one, and also remind her of your existence. She’s not just being cared for by us anymore, someone else is even more concerned about her, and closer to her. ]

[As long as she’s safe and sound, that’s all that matters. ]

Li Wan smiled, put down her phone, and started enjoying her meal.

Whether it was the chef’s exceptional performance tonight, or Lin Shuangzhi’s presence across from her, Li Wan found every dish exquisite.

Qin Qianrou frowned, looking at her phone, the exchange with Li Wan making her increasingly uneasy.

She knew Li Wan tended to exaggerate, especially when teasing Shen Yiqiu, but she wouldn’t make up stories to deceive her. So, was there really someone frequently taking Shen Yiqiu out for dinner and then escorting her home?

Li Wan had also said she had overheard the caring phone calls, which meant the person called Shen Yiqiu frequently, otherwise, Li Wan wouldn’t have overheard them.

Shen Yiqiu, what exactly have you been doing in Meng City all this time…?

Qin Qianrou looked out the window at the night view, the neon lights flickering, the Hai City night making her feel strangely lonely. She had been in Hai City for so long, and now, more than ever, she wanted to return to Meng City.

Return to do what? She thought about it for a long time, then told herself, Perhaps, to have a bowl of wontons.