《After Being Bent by Reader》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    <em>Pa! </em>


    After granting the death sentence to a mosquito in the midst ofmitting a crime, Xu Chuanchuan softly cursed, "Little bastard, let''s see how you''ll bite me now."


    The weather had started warming up recently. Fortunately, the apartment Xu Chuanchuan rented was on the first floor, and trees covered it from both the front and the back, which maintained the temperature at a cooling degree. The only problem she had with her house was the innumerable mosquitoes.


    To make matters worse, her old PC was buzzing incessantly, creating a perfect harmony with the humming mosquitoes.


    As Xu Chuanhuan was pulling out a tissue to clean off the mosquito remains in her hand, a message window popped up at the bottom-right corner of her screen. The sender was her lesbian friend, Ange.


    Ange: "It''s nearly midnight! Are you updating today or not?! Your readers are rioting!"


    Seeing this message, Xu Chuanchuan immediately opened up her QQ group, which had less than a thousand members. Sure enough, all hell had broken loose.


    Reader 1: "Lord, why is there no update?"


    Reader 2: "Lord, are you stuck again? Or are youcking time to write?"


    Reader 3: "Maybe our Lord is not done writing? @I Love Hotpot What is our Lord busy with?"


    "I Love Hotpot" was Ange''s sub-ount. Upon seeing that the situation was amiss, Ange had immediately sent Xu Chuanchuan a series of private messages.


    Quickly browsing through the chat log, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped as she shouted out loud, "I clearly published it!"


    Did the system choke and deleted her post again?


    At this time, Ange sent a second message: "Asleep?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Not yet."


    Opening her web browser, Xu Chuanchuan clicked on the bookmarked link "Literature City," logged into her ount, and entered the management interface. In the end, she discovered that


    The system didn''t choke. Instead, she was the one who choked


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I made a mistake in setting the publishing time. [Sweat]"


    Ange: "No wonder. [Facepalm]"


    After Xu Chuanchuan sent that message, her chat group blew up again, and she spent some time chatting with her readers.


    At one point, Ange privately messaged her: "What took you so long to reply? You''re not messing around with some youngdy behind my back, are you?"


    Giggling, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "Even if I''m going to mess around, it''ll be with a young man."


    Ange: "Ha You''re still straight even after writing yuri for so many years. I don''t know if I should praise you for your determination or say that you''re sexually inactive."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Staring at the nk entry window for a short moment, Xu Chuanchuan sighed and replied: "I''m having trouble writing the ending. The readers are constantly screaming for ''action,'' but I''ve never even dated anyone before! How would I possibly know how to write the bed scene!"


    Ange: "You want to date someone? Come to me! I''ll give you hands-on instruction. [Drool]"


    "Pfft" Xu Chuanchuan covered her screen in spittle when she read Ange''s message. After calming herself, she quickly typed a reply: "Great God, please spare me! I''m as straight as a pen! I like men!"


    Ange: "Fine. I''ll head over to Thand sometimeter. I''ll find you once I return."


    By the time she finished writing, it was already two past midnight. Fortunately, it was a weekend today. After shutting down herputer, she took a bath andid down on her bed while supporting her stiff back.


    After a satisfying sleep, Xu Chuanchuan woke up and washed. When she came out of the bathroom and checked her phone, she noticed a greeting from Ange: "Awake?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m awake. Was just about to order takeout."


    Ange: "Stop eating takeouts. You''re alreadyining about a stiff back before reaching 30. You should go out and take a walk. Mingle around with people and find some inspiration."


    Xu Chuanchuan was only 25 this year. However, due to her sedentary lifestyle, problems had started urring with her backtely. She had visited the hospital for a check-up, and the doctor told her that she had lumbar muscle strain and should rest and exercise more.


    After seeing Ange''s reminder, Xu Chuanchuan started feeling difort with her back again. Sensing this, she thought to herself, <em>I guess going out for a walk isn''t a bad thing.</em>


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan had dressed and felt the sun''s scorching rays shining down on her after she left her apartment, she shrank back, returning to her room to retrieve her umbre.


    After walking out on the street for a dozen minutes or so, she could no longer stand the heat and chose to hide in a KFC.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s appetite wasrger than the average girl''s. After ordering ten spicy wings, one packet of fries, and onerge Coke, she found herself a seat and sat down.


    While wearing the stic glove provided, Xu Chuanchuan looked at the restaurant''s other customers. She noticed that, aside from herself, every other table was seated by two or more people. Suddenly, sadness filled her.


    She had no boyfriend and no friends. The colleagues she got along with were all married women. Although she had a younger sister studying in a local university, her sister had just started her freshman year and was busy studying.


    Out of boredom, Xu Chuanchuan began fiddling around with her phone.


    At this time, a couple walked past her table, and a strong perfume triggered her nose, causing her to sneeze. Inadvertently, she caught a look at the couple.


    The man was well-dressed and wore an innocent smile on his face. The woman wore a red, sexy dress and had heavy makeup on. Pinching her throat, the woman said, "Shaohua, can we change locations?"


    In response, the innocent man asked, "What''s bad about this ce?"


    Pouting, the woman did not even try to hide her disdain as she said, "This ce is too low-ss. Fried chicken and hamburgers don''t match your status at all."


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan, who was savoring the "low-ss food" in her mouth, grew speechless.


    Unfazed by the woman''s words, the innocent man said, "You can leave if you don''t like it here. I won''t stop you."


    Immediately, the red-dressed woman changed her stance, wearing a smile on her face as she fawningly said, "No, no, this ce isn''t low-ss at all. I won''t go anywhere. I''ll go wherever you want to go today."


    Retrieving her gaze from the couple, Xu Chuanchuan returned her focus to gnawing on her chicken wing while reading thements her reader left.


    Meanwhile, the couple standing beside her table grew even more annoying as the red-dressed woman childishly said, "Do you want toe to my house after eating?"


    In response, the innocent man said, "Visiting your house during the day? Will that be appropriate?"


    Smiling, the woman replied, "It''s fine, it''s fine. I''m the only one living there."


    Briefly sweeping his gaze across the woman''srge breasts, the man fell into deep thought as he softly muttered, "Why isn''t she here yet"


    Having heard the man''s mutterings, the woman asked, "Who''s not here yet?"


    Quickly putting on an upright expression, the man replied, "I don''t like visiting other people''s houses."


    Reacting in joy, the red-dressed woman quickly said, "Let''s go to your house, then!"


    Without thinking, the innocent man replied, "My house isn''t a ce that just anybody can visit."


    Her smile vanishing, the red-dressed woman gently pushed the man as she angrily questioned, "Could you be hiding another woman in your house?"


    The innocent man''s brows jumped up momentarily upon hearing the woman''s question. He then sheepishly said, "That Shuangshuang, to tell you the truth, I already have a girlfriend."


    For a moment, the red-dressed woman''s face rapidly went through several shades of color. She then raised her voice and shouted, "You''re lying! I don''t believe you!"


    Overhearing the couple''s conversation, Xu Chuanchuan inwardly wondered, <em>They''re not going to start fighting, right?</em>


    Dreading over the potential fight, Xu Chuanchuan elerated her chewing speed, her mind blocking out all of her surroundings as she zed through her chicken wings. After drinking half of her Coke, she felt slightly bloated and thought to pay a visit to the washroom. However, she also worried that once she left her seat, the staff members would mistake her for leaving and clear her table, taking away her uneaten fries.


    Thinking up to this point, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly made her way to the counter and quietly said to the staff there, "I''m going to the washroom. Please don''t clear out my items."


    In response, the staff member said, "Table 1? Alright, we''ll take note of it."


    Feeling slightly embarrassed, Xu Chuanchuan dashed straight for the washroom.


    Two minutester, she came out of the washroom. To her joy, her food remained on her table.


    At this time, however, a woman walked in through the entrance. The woman was tall and thin. She also wore a pair of heels that did not hinder her movements in the slightest.


    The woman had refined makeup on, and her long ponytail swung from side to side like a broom in mid-air as she walked. Her overly-exaggerated Cartier earrings also let loose a crisp ring with each step she took.


    The woman wore a deep-blue, sleeveless shirt with a deep V-neck, and covering her bottom half were a pair of white jeans that further exemplified her two long legs. Her steps were very wide, and in the blink of an eye, she had arrived beside Xu Chuanchuan.


    Looking at the woman, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt as if she hade to the wrong ce. After all, the woman before her looked no different than the fashion models she usually saw on TV. Only, this woman wasn''t doing a catwalk right now. Instead, the woman walked with big strides, quickly walking past her and stopping before Table 11.


    Currently, the annoying couple Xu Chuanchuan came across before upied the table.


    In a flirtatious tone, the red-dressed woman said to the innocent man, "I don''t care how many girlfriends you have. I''m satisfied so long as you have me in your heart. If you don''t want to go to my house, why don''t we"


    "Murong! You''re here!" the innocent man stood up and said excitedly when she saw the tall woman. He then turned to the red-dressed woman and said, "Meet my girlfriend, Mu"


    <em>Pa!</em>


    The crisp sound of a p echoed throughout the restaurant as the tall woman''s palm met the innocent man''s face.


    Having her words interrupted and seeing herpanion getting pped by another woman that appeared out of nowhere, the red-dressed woman momentarily fell into a daze. When she snapped out of it, she quickly stood up and asked, "Shaohua, are you alright?"


    Holding his burning cheek, the innocent man red at the tall woman and bellowed, "Murong Shi, have you gone mad?!"


    In response, the woman named Murong Shi grabbed the cup of Coke on the table without hesitation.


    However, the red-dressed woman had reacted in time and tightly held onto Murong Shi''s wrist as she questioned, "What are you trying to do?"


    Sneering, Murong Shi swept her gaze around her and noticed a cup of Coke ced on a table right next to her. Seeing that the cup still had quite the amount of liquid remaining, she grabbed it without a second thought.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan shouted, "That''s mine!"


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan was one step toote as Murong Shi had already removed the cup''s semi-translucent cap and emptied its chilling contents on the innocent man''s face.


    The red-dressed woman nked out in surprise at this scene.


    Meanwhile, the Coke flowed down the man''s smooth cheeks, drenching him. The man also coughed violently as some of the brown liquid had entered his mouth unexpectedly.


    However, just as he was about to open his mouth and throw a slew of curses at Murong Shi, thetter got ahead of him as she coldly said, "Jiang Shaohua, if you dare toy around with me again, the thing that''s sshing on your face the next time won''t just be Coke!"


    After leaving behind these words, Murong Shi turned around and haughtily walked away, paying no attention to the strange gazes bystanders were giving her.


    As for Xu Chuanchuan, after snapping out of her daze, she promptly extended her arm and blocked Murong Shi''s path.


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "Do we know each other?"


    After seeing the spectacle before, Xu Chuanchuan realized that the woman before her was not to be trifled with when angry. However, she still couldn''t help but feel her heart aching when she thought about her unfinished Coke. In an aggrieved tone, she said, "That cup of Coke you sshed just now is mine."


    Turning her gaze to Table 1, Murong Shi noticed the mess on the table and realized her blunder. She then returned the gaze to the woman blocking her, her icy expression softening slightly. However, she still maintained a blunt tone as she said, "Sorry, I thought nobody upied that table. I don''t have my purse with me. You can ask that man topensate you for the Coke."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the tall woman walked around Xu Chuanchuan and left without another word.


    In this situation, Xu Chuanchuan could not help but grow speechless.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    The innocent man was still swearing in a fit of rage, so how would Xu Chuanchuan dare ask him forpensation?


    <em>Let''s just consider myself unlucky.</em>


    While it was a pity her Coke was no more, she was mostly full after eating the ten chicken wings before. After storing the warm fries in her purse, Xu Chuanchuan avoided the irritated couple nearby and fled the restaurant before she got dragged into any further problems.


    The sun was still as poisonous as it was before. Shading her eyes with one hand and holding her phone in the other, Xu Chuanchuan messaged aint to Ange: "I just saw a live-action face-pping."


    Ange: "What happened?"


    Not having much understanding over the situation, Xu Chuanchuan roughly described the situation she encountered, not forgetting to emphasize her unfortunate Coke.


    However, Ange showed no sympathy for Xu Chuanchuan even after hearing thetter''s story. She even teased Xu Chuanchuan, saying: "That''s why you should just get into a rtionship. Otherwise, you can''t even go to the toilet when eating outside."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You''re annoying. I''m not talking to you anymore. I''m heading back to continue writing."


    Xu Chuanchuan had started reading web novels when she was in middle school. After reading for six years, she had an itch and decided to try her hand at writing a book herself. Six years ago, she had <em>identally</em> befriended her lesbian friend Ange. Afterward, she had <em>identally</em> written a yuri novel. From then onward, everything got out of hand.


    Homosexual novels were a niche genre, and yuri novels were a niche among niches. When Xu Chuanchuan had met Ange, Ange had already be something of a God in the world of yuri novels.


    Xu Chuanchuan did not possess much talent for writing. Fortunately, sweet CEO novels were in demand for the past two years, and such stories just so happened to be her forte. After writing six sweet books consecutively, she had gradually gathered herself a group of loyal readers and be a well-known yuri author.


    Although the monthly ie she generated through writing was now three times higher than the sry she earned from her actual job, Xu Chuanchuan dared not resign and be a full-time writer like Ange. After all, yuri novels were too niche, and the future of a yuri author was bleak.


    Xu Chuanchuan hoped to get more writing done during the weekend, but her writer''s block was too powerful. Even after toiling away until midnight, she only managed toplete two chapters.


    Before going to bed, she checked thements hertest chapter received. When she reached the newestment, she paused.


    A reader asked: "What do you n on writing for your next novel, Lord? Will you go for another gentle and considerate plot like this one?"


    This question put Xu Chuanchuan into a bind.


    After pondering for a long time, Xu Chuanchuan replied to the reader: "I don''t know yet. We''ll see when the timees. Thank you for supporting my work, little angel~"


    When she shut her eyes, thest question she read appeared in her mind once more. Inwardly, she wondered, <em>What kind of main character should I write for the next book? Do I go for a cold character, a sharp-tongued character, or an imposing character?</em>


    Failing to solve this question, Xu Chuanchuan entered dreand.


    Two days went by quickly. On Monday morning, Xu Chuanchuan rode her tattered, second-hand bicycle to work, her mind still filled with thoughts on her next book.


    Maybe because she failed to get a good restst night, Xu Chuanchuan faced great difficulty pedaling her bike. She felt as if lead filled the wheels of her bike, and she wheezed and panted as she pedaled. When she arrived in front of herpany''s entrance, a "ck" sound suddenly appeared. Her bicycle chain had slipped off!


    Xu Chuanchuan slipped and nearly fell together with her bike. Fortunately, the security guard at the entrance reacted quickly and caught her in time. Smiling awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Thank you."


    The security guard took a nce at the bicycle chain and said, "It''s rusted. You need to grease it."


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded repeatedly.


    <em>Beep, beep</em>


    At this time, a honk came from a ck Maserati Quattroporte behind Xu Chuanchuan, reminding her that she was blocking the way. Quickly, she pushed her broken bicycle toward the parking shed.


    <em>Bad luck at the very start of the day</em>


    There were still ten minutes until her shift began. Pulling out a carton of milk from her purse, Xu Chuanchuan inwardlyined as she walked toward herpany building. At this time, a ck car slowly drove past her and stopped in front of her.


    It was the Quattroporte yet again.


    Looking at the car, Xu Chuanchuan stopped and wondered, <em>How is this car slower than me?</em>


    The car door opened, and a woman dressed in white office wear descended from it. The woman then closed the door neatly with a "bang." The woman possessed a model-like figure, and her long ponytail swayed in sync with her movements.


    For some reason, Xu Chuanchuan found this woman to be familiar. Before she could get a look at the woman''s face, though, thetter had already walked into the lobby.


    Xu Chuanchuan had seen many women who looked excellent from the back. Unfortunately, more often than not, these women did not have a face that matched their figures. Although she couldn''t see the woman''s face, her mind supplemented the information shecked. She then thought to herself, <em>Maybe I should set my next main character as a model?</em>


    <em>A cold and indifferent model should make an interesting pairing with a cute and baby-faced girl, right?</em>


    After gaining a vague outline for her next book''s characters, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t restrain her curiosity and sped up her pace. She wanted to see what that person looked like.


    Suddenly, another woman walked up in a hurry from behind Xu Chuanchuan. Fortunately, she had dodged out of the way in time and avoided falling.


    "Sorry, sorry. I''m in a hurry."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could even catch a glimpse of what the other person looked like, that person had disappeared into the lobby after speaking a brief apology.


    After stumbling back a few more steps, Xu Chuanchuan realized just how wretched her previous thoughts were. During her brief pause, another person came up to her. This person then gave her a firm pat on the shoulder and said, "Hey!"


    Turning around, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and greeted, "Morning."


    "Morning." The person who patted Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulder was Chen Lina, a colleague. In a low voice, Chen Lina said, "Walk slower. Or do you wish to take the same elevator as those two people?"


    <em>Those two people from before?</em> Looking at the two figures of uneven heights standing in front of the elevator in the lobby, Xu Chuanchuan asked in confusion, "Is there a problem?"


    "Tsk" Chen Lina gave Xu Chuanchuan another firm pat before elucidating, "That''s the new vice president and her assistant!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan froze at this revtion, nearly spitting out the milk in her mouth. She never knew that thepany would be weing in new leadership.


    Dragging Xu Chuanchuan to a side, Chen Lina asked, "Did you not look at the group chat?"


    "What group chat?"


    "Xu Xiaomei''s WeChat group! They were talking about a new vice presidentst night. Did you not see it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head in a daze.


    Xu Chuanchuan had the impression that such a chat group existed. Xu Xiaomei was a colleague of hers, and the person created the chat group to hold small discussions among co-workers. Although Xu Xiaomei had dragged her into the group, she never actually participated in the conversations held there. Hence, she wouldn''t know what the people in the group talked about under normal circumstances.


    After hearing Chen Lina''s words, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself in shock, <em>I actually had lewd thoughts about the new vice president just now?!</em>


    Inside the pantry...


    Xu Chuanchuan struggled with a taro oatmeal packet, only managing to open it after a long time. Her gaze focused on the package in her hands, she involuntarily overheard the conversation of two women standing nearby.


    "Have you met the new leader? How did she manage to be the vice president at such a young age?''


    "What''s there to be surprised about? That''s Murong Shi! The boss''s daughter!"


    "How do you know that?"


    "I met her before. She came to thepany in the past. However, I don''t understand. Ourpany isn''t making any money. Why would shee here instead of staying in the mainpany? Did the boss abandon his wife and his daughter?"


    "Do you want to lose your job?! You dare speak such words?!"


    "I''m not talking nonsense. I heard that the rtionship between the boss and his wife isn''t very good. They seem to be..."


    The voice entering Xu Chuanchuan''s ears stopped abruptly. Through the corner of her eyes, she noticed that her two gossiping female colleagues had walked out of the pantry.


    Xu Chuanchuan had only heard of and never met with the boss''s daughter. Recalling her two colleagues'' conversation, she couldn''t help but wonder: Their boss''s surname was Sun, while the madame''s surname was Murong. Why did their daughter have the mother''s surname?


    <em>Wait a minute. Murong Shi? Why does this name sound familiar?</em>


    Recalling the back of Murong Shi she saw in the morning, Xu Chuanchuan had a queer feeling. Suddenly, a memory shed in her mind, and she couldn''t help but be shocked.


    Wasn''t this new vice president the face-pper she met on Saturday?!


    However, Xu Chuanchuan failed to find a photo of Murong Shi even after scouring herpany chat group. Hence, she could only return to the Engineering Department with questions in her mind.


    Apart from Xu Chuanchuan, men filled the Engineering Department. The conversations they held over the new vice president were straight and proper.


    "Is the new vice president really the boss''s daughter?"


    "Most likely."


    "Why haven''t they announced it yet?"


    "Who knows? Our department head isn''t here, either. He might''ve been called for a meeting."


    Xu Chuanchuan quietly turned on herputer as she listened in on the conversations around her.


    However, the office wasn''t a ce for conversation. After a few more words, the several men shut their mouths and carried on with their respective work. Shortly afterward, sounds of ttering keyboards echoed throughout the entire office.


    Two hourster, the engineering department head still hadn''t returned. No information regarding thepany''s new leadership was released yet, either. For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan began to doubt the validity of those rumors.


    Feeling parched from the air-conditioning, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her cup of finished oatmeal and left her seat. She nned to get the cup washed while also going for a toilet break.


    When passing by the conference room, Xu Chuanchuan snuck a nce into the room and found that not a single soul was inside. When she walked by the general manager''s office, her feet stopped.


    It had been a long time since the boss and the madame hade to thepany, so the door to the general manager''s office had always remained shut. Now, however, Xu Chuanchuan could faintly hear sounds of conversationing from inside the room.


    <em>Who could it be?</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan had this thought, the heavy wooden doors to the room suddenly opened. Caught off guard, Xu Chuanchuan ended up exchanging looks with the woman who opened the door. Immediately, her expression stiffened as if lightning struck her.


    Xu Chuanchuan saw the rumored new vice presidentMurong Shi.


    The face of the person before her coincided with the face she saw at the KFC restaurantst Saturday, this encounter verifying her previous conjecture...


    In this situation, Xu Chuanchuan pretended to be just passing by and tried to sneak away. However, before she could put her n into action, Murong Shi asked, "It''s you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt vexed at missing her opportunity to escape. The corners of her lips twitching, she struggled on what she should call the person in front of her.


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s expression of difort, Murong Shi suddenly thought of something. She then smiled humorously and asked, "You''re not here to ask me forpensation over your Coke, right?"

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled the untoward thoughts she had this morning, she couldn''t help but grow nervous. After faltering for a long time, she said, "No, I...I was just going to get some water."


    Murong Shi''s long legs ovepped with each other as she leaned against the door frame to examine the person in front of her. The woman before her was short and thin, and she had visible dark circles under her eyes. Although the woman didn''t possess excellent facial features, her lips were fortunately rosy red and her teeth pearly white. Paired with her bobbed hair, she looked rtively cute.


    Murong Shi lowered her gaze and stopped at the employee badge hanging in front of the woman''s chest. "Xu Chuanchuan, Assistant of the Engineering Department. What a strange name."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    The only thought in Xu Chuanchuan''s mind right now was to slip away, and she couldn''t help but reveal an unnatural expression. Particrly, when Murong Shi returned her gaze to her face and looked at her with a hint of yfulness, Xu Chuanchuan felt goosebumps rising all over her body.


    Inwardly, Xu Chuanchuan wondered, <em>I saw her pping that man that day. Don''t tell me she''s thinking of ''erasing eyewitnesses''?</em>


    At this time, Murong Shi retracted her gaze and said ndly, "I''ll have Linda pay you back for the Coke in a moment."


    <em>I''m not here to ask for money! I was just passing by to get water!</em>


    Forcing a smile, Xu Chuanchua said, "Let''s just forget about the money. If you don''t have business with meI''ll be taking my leave first."


    Murong Shi nodded.


    As if she was just granted amnesty, Xu Chuanchuan ran away with her empty cup.


    After entering the toilet, she pulled out her phone and quickly poked the screen with her fingers. "That face-pper I metst Saturday was my boss''s daughter!"


    Ange: "What?! [Startled]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I just met her. I was so scared my heart nearly jumped out."


    Ange: "Could your boss''s daughter be hideous?"


    Ange had evidently misunderstood her words. After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "No, she''s quite beautiful."


    Ange: "Sneak a photo for me. [Sinister smile]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No way!"


    Not wanting to spend too much time in the toilet, Xu Chuanchuan quickly relieved herself and went to the pantry to fill herself a cup of water. When she passed by the general manager''s office again, she found that the door was open and there was someone inside the office. However, the upant was merely the cleaningdy doing her duties.


    Even after getting off work, no announcement regarding the appointment of a new vice president came. As a result, this topic gradually faded out of existence in thepany.


    For the next few days, Xu Chuanchuan did not see Murong Shi and her assistant appearing in thepany again.


    At one point, though, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought back to the time she saw Murong Shi''s back. She then shared her new idea with her good friend: "I want to write about a model for my next book."


    Ange: "Write it, then. Your current book is nearingpletion. I''ll help you promote it in my book."


    As the two of them often advertised each other''s work, Xu Chuanchuan graciously epted Ange''s offer.


    Municipal Hospital:


    Murong Shi was not wearing makeup today, and neither was she wearing those overly-exaggerated Cartier earrings. Her long hair was left dangling behind her head, giving her a casual look. Currently, she sat quietly in front of a hospital bed while holding an iPad in her hands. Her eyes were so fixated on the tablet that she didn''t even realize the man sleeping on the hospital bed had just woken up.


    "Little Shi."


    Murong Shi remained unaffected by the man calling her. After looking at the tablet for a moment longer, she raised her head unhurriedly and looked at Sun An. "You''re awake? Do you feel ufortable anywhere? Would you like me to call the doctor?"


    Despite fat covering his face, Sun An still possessed handsome facial features. At this time, though, he looked rtively weak. After processing Murong Shi''s words for a moment, he shook his head and shifted his gaze toward Murong Shi''s iPad, asking, "What were you so fascinated by?"


    "A novel."


    "What kind of novel?" Sun An asked, smiling.


    Knowing that Sun An was merely trying to make conversation, Murong Shi said casually, "It''s a web novel. I''ll pour you a ss of water."


    Although Murong Shi had been staying by his side for the past few days, Sun An felt as if this daughter of his was a little different. Apart from responding to his questions, she would never take the initiative to strike up a conversation. Her indifference made her feel as if she was dealing with a stranger.


    Gazing at Murong Shi''s back, Sun An pondered for a moment before asking, "Are you still mad at me? I wasn''t deliberately trying to anger you that day. I''m not forcing you to get married right away, either. I just hope you two can get engaged first. After all, men would only concentrate on work once they are married. You know that Shaohua is..."


    "We ran out of water. I''ll go buy some for you," Murong Shi interrupted Sun An''s words. Seemingly having no intentions of conversing with her father, she turned around and left the room without another word.


    After exiting the ward and shutting the door, Murong Shi''s expressionless face instantly copsed. She then pulled out her phone and made a call.


    When the call connected, Murong Shi said to the person on the other end of the phone, "He''s awake. Bring an extra portion of food and a few bottles of water."


    Hanging up the phone, Murong Shi sat on the chair by the door and quietly waited for her assistant to arrive.


    The man inside the private ward was her biological father, but she did not wish to be alone with him at all. She also didn''t wish to talk about Jiang Shaohua with him. What did it matter to her whether men would only focus on work after they got married? She was more than happy to see Jiang Shaohua spend his days enjoying himself outside. In any case, they would each have fun with their own lives. Talking to her father about Jiang Shaohua would only create more chances for her to slip up. If that were the case, she would be better off avoiding the topic altogether.


    Having left her iPad inside the ward and not wanting to waste time, Murong Shi pulled out her phone, downloaded a reading application, logged back into her ount, and resumed reading the novel she had been reading before.


    Five days ago, Sun An had a diabetic attack and was hospitalized for emergency rescue. Upon receiving news of the situation, Murong Shi had hurried over to the hospital together with her assistant Linda.


    After the incident settled down, Murong Shi decided to stay in the hospital and apany her father. During this period, she spent her free time browsing her social media. She identally came across a post made by Murong Yan, her cousin, stating that she had recently read a shocking BL novel.


    Murong Shi wasn''t particrly interested in novels. However, as she was genuinely bored that day, she decided to search up the title on her phone. At the same time as Murong Shi found the novel Murong Yan rmended, she also came across a GL novel with the same title. Out of curiosity, she ended up clicking into the GL novel.


    After being discharged from the hospital, Sun An did not waste time. He instructed his driver to take him to a certain hotel where he had invited someone for a meal.


    Unwilling to go with her father, Murong Shi made up a random reason and said, "I''m thinking of heading home to take a bath."


    Thinking that his daughter had suffered enough for the past few days, Sun An said, "Go home, then. Get a good rest for the next two days."


    Afterward, Murong Shi and Linda got on the Maserati Quattroporte.


    After entering the car, Linda asked worriedly, "Is it fine for President Sun to start socializing so soon after being discharged?"


    Failing to get a good rest for the past few days, dark circles had already formed under Murong Shi''s eyes. In a slightly exhausted voice, she answered, "Secretary Zhang will keep an eye on him."


    In a soft tone, Linda asked, "Would you like to take a nap first? I''ll call you once we arrive."


    Murong Shi shook her head and smoothed back her hair. When her gazended on the iPad sandwiched in the middle armrest, she suddenly thought of something and said, "Help me top up my ount."


    After processing Murong Shi''s words for a moment, Linda asked, "Likest time?"


    "Mhm." Murong Shi picked up her iPad and unlocked it. She then looked into the jjwxc application and handed the tablet to Linda.


    As if she was receiving an imperial decree from the emperor, Linda epted the bulky tablet with both hands. She then opened up the top-up section of the application.


    At this time, Murong Shi said nonchntly, "Top-up more. Twenty is too little."


    Twenty yuan was only enough for her to read a 600,000-word novel. While she didn''t find this price to be expensive, she did it to be an inconvenience. She did not have a habit of buying things online, and neither did she use online banking systems or Alipay. She would only ever use cash or credit cards usually. Hence, she had to trouble her assistant to top-up her reading ount.


    Linda''s hand paused at Murong Shi''s words. Looking up, she asked, "You said you were only going to read one novelst time, so I only topped up twenty for you. You couldn''t have gotten addicted, right?"


    Hearing Murong Shi''s words, Linda wondered to herself, <em>Is this the so-called obsessivepulsive disorder?</em>


    Previously, Linda had been surprised when Murong Shi had asked her to help with topping up her ount to read a web novel. However, she merely thought that Murong Shi had been bored in the hospital. Linda never thought that Murong Shi would end up getting fascinated by novels. For precaution''s sake, she decided to top up more money into Murong Shi''s reading ount.


    Afterpleting the top-up, Linda respectfully returned the tablet to its owner and said, "I topped up a hundred. Tell me in advance when you''re close to running out."


    "Thank you, but I won''t be needing it once I finish reading this book," Murong Shi said. She then pulled out 120 yuan from her wallet and handed the bills to Linda.


    In response, Linda awkwardly epted the bills.


    Switching into a morefortable posture, Murong Shi settled the iPad on her thighs and revisited the unfinished novel.


    When Murong Shi had read this Author''s Notest night, it just so happened that Sun An had woken her up not long ago. Her head filled with annoyance, she ended up leaving ament stating: "Very immature."


    She also conscientiously scored the book with a "-2".


    Linda started the car silently. To let Murong Shi have a morefortable time reading, she deliberately drove slowly as well.


    However, as the iPad''s leather cover was too slippery, the tablet still fell t on its back when the car elerated. When Murong Shi stretched out a hand to support the tablet, she identally touched the middle of the screen, causing the system to jump to thement section automatically. She then noticed a familiar ID.


    "Passerby." That was the nickname the system generated for her automatically, and she also didn''t bother changing it.


    When she saw the shortment she leftst night, she paid closer attention to it out of curiosity. However, she never thought that herment would''ve received a bunch of replies.


    <em>Were theizens nowadays so enthusiastic?</em>


    When Murong Shi nced through the replies she received, herplexion changed instantly. This was because she found that most of those replies were cursing at her.


    TL Notes:


    [1]flowers andndmines refer to the voting and donation systems adopted by jjwxc''s tform. Votes and contributions grant a novel with points, which trantes to ie and poprity.


    Voting+Review system:


    +2 points- A bouquet of flowers


    +1 point - A small flower


    0 points - A can of water


    -1 point - A brick


    -2 points - A pile of bricks


    Contribution system:


    Landmine - 100 points (1 yuan/0.15 USD)


    Grenade - 500 points (5 yuan/0.75 USD)


    Rocket - 1,000 points (10 yuan/1.5 USD)


    Torpedo - 5,000 points (50 yuan/7.5 USD)


    Deep-water Torpedo - 10,000 points (100 yuan/15 USD)

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    When Xu Chuanchuan first began writing, she had joined a group of anonymous writers.


    The first novel she wrote was about romance. Unfortunately, she had written it so poorly written that nobody wanted to read it. However, Xu Chuanchuan did not feel discouraged by her failure. Instead, she would always strike up conversations with people in her group chat and invite them to group writing sessions. From what Xu Chuanchuan could remember, there was a person named "Cultivator" in the group, and this person would always be the first to volunteer themself whenever an invite for a group writing session appeared.


    There were more than 20 people in the group, and everyone was very active during the first month of the group''s establishment. But as time passed, many of the group members stopped writing because of various reasons. As a result, the group became increasingly deserted and eventually reached a point where nobody would speak.


    One time, Xu Chuanchuan asked a question in the group: "Anyone want to write together?"


    The group''s members appeared to be "dead" as nobody responded to her even after several minutes had passed.


    Just when Xu Chuanchuan was about to give up and start writing by herself, Cultivator privately messaged her: "Me."


    From then onward, Xu Chuanchuan had gone from being groupmates with Cultivator to friends on QQ[1]. The two of them would make an appointment to write with each other every day. Sometimes, they would also hold casual conversations with each other once they finished writing.


    However, even after writing for two years, Xu Chuanchuan could never secure a writing contract because of hercking talent. One day, though, Cultivator suddenly said to her: "Why don''t you try writing yuri? It''s easy for yuri writers to get contracted. The ranking is much lesspetitive as well, and the readers are generally cute and loyal."


    Hesitantly, Xu Chuanchuan responded: "But I''m not a lez. I don''t understand anything about yuri."


    Cultivator: "You''ll get the hang of it after reading a few books. It doesn''t matter even if you''re not a lez. Many yuri authors are straight women."


    Meanwhile, just when Xu Chuanchuan was about to conclude her first yuri novel, Cultivator asked her: "We''ve known each other for quite some time now. Do you want to exchange pen names?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "


    Xu Chuanchuan had always been curious about Cultivator''s pen name. However, as the other party had never bothered to reveal themself and she was too embarrassed to ask, she was never able to find out about Cultivator''s pen name.


    After they exchanged pen names, Xu Chuanchuan learned that Cultivator was Ange, a famous God-level yuri writer.


    Meanwhile, after identally boarding Ange''s pirate ship, Xu Chuanchuan had since fallen into the deep ocean of yuri and ended up writing for six years straight.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s life was straight and simple. Even after writing for six years, Ange was the only writer Xu Chuanchuan was acquainted with. However, Ange was different. The number of yuri writers she befriended was more than enough to form a harem.


    "But you are the one I''ve known for the longest." Ange once said so to her.


    After weing another rare weekend, Xu Chuanchuan finally managed to conclude her current serialized work after much effort. Just when she was about to drag the document into her manuscript folder, a message popped up in the lower right corner of her screen.


    Ange: "Do you know Fragrant Citrus?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Yeah. Why are you suddenly bringing her up? Did you two get back together?"


    Ange: "I never look back on rtionships. It''s impossible for us to get back together. Do you still remember the incident half a year ago where Citrus spammed sub-ounts to give you point reductions?"


    After searching through her memories for a bit, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I do. What about it?"


    Ange: "She has a cultivation novel that''s been ongoing for a year now. Someone gave her a negative review a few days ago, and her brain-dead fans have gone crazy."


    Growing even more confused by the conversation topic, Xu Chuanchuan asked: "What then?"


    Ange: "Then, congrattions, you got hit by a stray bullet. [Image]"


    Passerby: Very immature.


    #1: Why are you giving a point reduction for no rhyme or reason? Do you have a grudge with Citrus? Or are your eyes blind?


    #3: If you''re that great, write a novel yourself! Don''t act smart if you can''t!


    #4: You dare call such a great novel immature? Are you perhaps an olddy who''s about to be one with the dirt?


    ...


    #17: Let me make a conspiracy theory here. Perhaps this "Passerby" is a certain author focused on writing sweet novels?


    #18: #17, Mtang? The third-party?


    #19: Who? Who? Who? Who are you guys talking about? Please enlighten me! I''ll curse anyone who dares talk bad about my husband to death!


    #20: Isn''t it that author I Love Mtang? If you don''t even know this, you must be a newbie, #19.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw her delicious, stupid, and straightforward pen name being mentioned, her pupils shrank, and she inwardly wondered, <em>Who did I offend this time?</em>


    Seeing no response from Xu Chuanchuan for a long time, Ange asked, "Have you finished watching? Don''t get angry. She has a lot of brain-dead fans. In any case, we have nothing to feel guilty about. Just ignore them."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mood was subtle, and she did not feel particrly angered by this situation. She just thought that this situation was bizarre, and she couldn''t help but think back to the incident that had taken ce six months ago.


    Fragrant Citrus was also a yuri writer. Not only that, but she was also an inte celebrity with many fans on a live broadcasting tform. A year ago, Fragrant Citrus had taken the initiative to seduce Ange and became Ange''s girlfriend. However, their rtionship ended half a yearter.


    Separations and reunifications were a norm when it came to rtionships. However, as an irrelevant outsider, Xu Chuanchuan never expected to get dragged into the matter.


    Ange was a very well-established writer. When she broke up with Fragrant Citrus, the incident had been blown out of proportions. However, it wasn''t because Ange had gone and announced the incident to the public. Instead, the problemid with Fragrant Citrus.


    Unwilling to break up with Ange, Fragrant Citrus had written a lengthy post on Weibo and tagged Ange in the post in an attempt to recover their rtionship. However, Ange was determined to end the rtionship between them, so she paid no attention to Fragrant Citrus''s post.


    The next day, however, Fragrant Citrus published an angry post on Weibo, using: "A certain author should stop writing sweet novels and cheating the readers of their money! Is it fun to be a third party? Don''t think that she''ll be with you just because she has broken up with me! Who do you think you are?! You''re a bastard who only knows how to suck up to others! Go choke on your mtang!"


    Although the blog post did not mention the third party''s name, any discerning person would know that Fragrant Citrus was talking about Xu Chuanchuan.


    Meanwhile, because of Fragrant Citrus''s cryptic post, many readers who were ignorant of the exact situation began picking a fight with Xu Chuanchuan''s readers on Xu Chuanchuan''s Weibo.


    Seeing that the situation was developing in a bad direction, Ange took the initiative to rify the situation: "The reason for our breakup was a disagreement. There is no third party or fourth party involved. Also, I have known @I Love Mtang for six years now. She will forever be my best friend. A certain someone should just focus on writing novels and stop cooking up a storm. Let''s just separate on good terms. Can''t you show some dignity?"


    After Ange rified the situation, the war raging at Xu Chuanchuan''s Weibo finally stopped. However, hertest serialized novel at the time had suffered an attack instead.


    At the time, a reader going by the name of "Disgusting Third Party" had flooded Xu Chuanchuan''stest novel with negative reviews filled with all sorts of unpleasant remarks, the situation thoroughly stunning Xu Chuanchuan.


    Afterward, one of the girls in Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group who was proficient withputers privately messaged Xu Chuanchuan: "Lord, this negative reviewer''s IP is the same as Fragrant Citrus''s. This is clearly her sub-ount. Should we help you in cursing her?"


    <em>When would the matter end if we keep on cursing at each other? </em>Xu Chuanchuan only wished to live a peaceful life. Hence, she had rejected that girl''s kind intentions. Eventually, the tform administrator had also deleted the malicious reviews and retracted the point reductions.


    During her first two years of writing, Xu Chuanchuan had received plenty of negative remarks due to her poor writing. Even with her present achievements, there would still be people giving her negativements from time to time. Although she would find it ufortable whenever it happened, it was not to an eptable degree. After all, everyone had their likes and dislikes.


    However, despite this Passerby not making any unreasonablements on Fragrant Citrus''s novel, this person still ended up getting flooded with curses. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but sigh and muttered, "Keyboard warriors are scary."


    Meanwhile, the cursed Passerby was none other than Murong Shi. at this time, herplexion had turned livid, and her eyes were practically giving off mes as she stared at her iPad.


    While waiting for a red light, Linda nced at the rear-view mirror and noticed that something was amiss with Murong Shi''s expression. In a quiet voice, she asked, "Miss Murong, are you feeling ufortable somewhere?"


    Her thoughts interrupted, Murong Shi retracted the hostility she radiated. She then looked up, met her assistant''s worried gaze, and calmly said, "I''m fine."


    Breathing out a sigh of relief, Linda said, "You were wearing a scary expression just now. I thought something happened to you."


    After getting cursed by a group of unknownizens, no matter how much Murong Shi pretended to be fine on the outside, there was no way she would feel fine on the inside.


    After lightly swiping her sharp nail across the maliciousments and suppressing the rage burning within her heart, Murong Shi looked toward Linda and asked, "If someone swore at you one day, what would you do?"


    "I would swear back, of course," Linda responded without even thinking for a second. When she finished speaking, she carefully looked at Murong Shi''splexion. Although she felt that something was amiss, she dared not ask Murong Shi what was wrong.


    <em>Swear back at them? That probably isn''t possible. </em>


    While Murong Shi wasn''t above swearing, and neither was she ignorant on how to do so, she knew that she was no match for those keyboard warriors. Murong Shi also couldn''t bring herself to tell Linda that she had gotten cussed when reading a novel. However, she also wasn''t willing to just take this loss lying down.


    While tapping her finger on the screen, Murong Shi inadvertently noticed the words "I Love Mtang" and couldn''t help but find the name familiar.


    If she remembered correctly, the author of the previous book also rmended the novels of an author going by the name of "I Love Mtang."


    However, back then, as Ange had made the rmendation part way through the novel and Murong Shi had been immersed in reading the story, she had ignored the rmendation after taking a nce at it. Though, when she saw the rmended author''s name, she couldn''t help butugh and thought to herself, <em>This author must be a glutton.</em>


    Meanwhile, after reading the infuriatingments, Murong Shi guessed that the author Fragrant Citrus had a grudge against the author I Love Mtang.


    <em>What was that saying again? My enemy''s enemy is my friend.</em>


    After typing the words "I Love Mtang" into the tform''s search bar, Murong Shi tapped into the author''stest publication and sent a Deep-water Torpedo without hesitation. When she did so, she felt an indescribable sense of pleasure.


    Since she had spent all of the 100 yuan she had just topped up, Murong Shi tossed her iPad to a side and inwardly swore to herself, <em>I''m never reading web novels ever again.</em>


    TL Notes:


    [1]QQ: This refers to the QQ messenger, a live messenger application like LINE that''smonly used in China.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    Xu Chuanchuan opened her browser while chatting with Ange. She wanted to use this free time to reply to some readerments. However, when she logged into her author''s ount, she found that she had received a Deep Water Torpedo.


    The "Overlord Ticket" was a kind of contribution system used by jjwxc. The smallest denominator was a one yuan Landmine, while thergest was a 100 yuan Deep-water Torpedo.


    Squinting her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan was stunned when she saw the ID of the contributor.


    <em>Passerby?</em>


    "Passerby" was an automatic ID generated for all new users of jjwxc''s tform, so Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t too surprised to see someone with this ID. However, as a Passerby hade up with her conversation with Ange just a few seconds ago, she couldn''t help but wonder to herself, <em>Don''t tell me they''re the same person?</em>


    Visiting this Passerby''s profile, Xu Chuanchuan discovered that this person had never purchased any of her works. The person''s reading record showed that they had only ever read a 600,000-word novel written by Ange. Scrolling down further, Xu Chuanchuan inspected the person''sment history, and her eyes widened immediately.


    This Passerby was the same Passerby who had given Fragrant Citrus a point reduction


    <em>Why would this person give me a Deep-water?</em>


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan took a screenshot, sent it to Ange, and exined her discovery.


    Ange: "Why would this person read my novel, give a point reduction to Citrus, and send a Deep-water to you? Is she one of Citrus''s anti-fans?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How would I know?"


    Ange: "What a willful reader."


    After wracking her mind and failing to see through this unknown reader''s thoughts, Xu Chuanchuan decided to give up altogether.


    At 9 PM sharp, the tform published thest two chapters of her novel as scheduled. Shortly afterward, her readers bombarded her with a bunch of explosives. Looking through the list of contributions she received, she found five Deep-water Torpedoes mixed among them, giving her a pleasant surprise.


    In response to the wonderful reception, Xu Chuanchuan sent many red packets[1] and replied to messages in her reader group.


    <em>Now that I''ve concluded this book, what should I write for the next one?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a headache momentarily. However, when she thought about how she could finally stop torturing herself to write drafts every night, she couldn''t help but feel happy again.


    Xu Chuanchua hummed a tune with her tone-deaf voice, tormenting the mosquitoes that the mosquito-repellent incense had poisoned while she grabbed herself a change of clothes and headed to the bath.


    Twenty minutester, Xu Chuanchuan got out of the bath and immediately heard her phone ringing. Walking over to take a look, she found that Xu Xiangxiang was sending her a video call invite.


    "Sis" Xu Xiangxiang''s weak voice came through the phone.


    Looking at Xu Xiangxiang''s flushed face and foggy eyes, it appeared that she had just cried. Startled by this, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Sniffling, Xu Xiangxiang whimpered, "I have a fever. It feels so ufortable."


    Surprised once again, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How is your temperature? Have you taken medicine?"


    Xu Xiangxiang answered, "It''s 38.5 degrees. I''ve visited the school doctor and just took my medicine."


    Her tone softening, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Go to bed earlier if you''re sick. I''ll visit you tomorrow."


    Xu Xiangxiang responded obediently, "Mhm."


    Because of her worry for her sick younger sister, Xu Chuanchua wasn''t even in the mood to celebrate her book''s conclusion anymore. After experiencing a sleepless night, she left home early in the morning. On the road, she contacted her department chief to ask for leave. She then switched to taking the bus and the subway before arriving at Xu Xiangxiang''s university an hourter.


    Xu Xiangxiang was currently lying in her dormitory alone. Her fever had settled now, but she still didn''t look too well.


    Moving forward, Xu Chuanchuan touched her little sister''s forehead and asked, "Have you had breakfast?"


    Xu Xiangxiang shook her head. Her nose picking up something sweet, she asked, "Did you bring me something good to eat?"


    "Egg tarts. Do you want them now?"


    A gleam appearing in her eyes, Xu Xiangxiang nodded repeatedly.


    Seeing her little sister''s greedy look, Xu Chuanchuan found it both aggravating and amusing. "Get out of bed, then."


    Immediately, Xu Xiangxiang tossed aside her nket and hopped out of her bed with great enthusiasm. The spirited look she showed currently making it seem as if the person crying and moaning in agonyst night was apletely different person.


    After apanying Xu Xiangxiang for breakfast, Xu Chuanchua chatted with her endlessly. Eventually, she got up and said, "There''s a box left. There are also some fruits in the bag. Share them with your three roommates when theye back."


    Drinking her milk with a smile, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Sis, you''re the best."


    "Don''t give me that." After packing up her things, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I only took half a day of leave. Take a good rest on your own. If there''s nothing else, I''ll be leaving now."


    Wiping the milk stains off her mouth, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Mom came to visit mest time. She brought this for you."


    "What is it?"


    "She bought some medicinal patches for you. It''s from that old traditional doctor. She says it works very well," Xu Xiangxiang said as she rummaged through her messy cab. After a short moment, she picked up a box with nobels and handed it to her elder sister.


    epting the box, Xu Chuanchuan gave it a sniff. Immediately, a pungent medicinal smell assaulted her nose, irritating it. This was a very familiar smell. Whenever her grandfather''s back was acting up, he would stick a patch and be fully refreshed the next day.


    Xu Chuanchuan had been suffering from severe back pain recently, so these medicinal patches were a lifesaver. After closing the box, she stored it in her shoulder bag.


    However, just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to leave, she noticed Xu Xiangxiang staring at her with eager eyes.


    Understanding what her little sister was aiming at, Xu Chuanchuan took out 500 yuan from her wallet and gave it to her little sister.


    "Thank you, Sis!" Xu Xiangxiang unceremoniously grabbed the notes. A momentter, however, she bit her lower lip and asked, "Sis, can you lend me some money?"


    Astonished, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is 500 still not enough?"


    Xu Xiangxiang''s sicklyplexion went from red to white in intervals. After struggling for a long time, she said, "I want to buy an iPhone. Can you lend me 6,000? I''ll pay you back once I start working part-time in the summer."


    "Don''t you have an iPhone already?"


    In an aggrieved tone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "That one''s outdated. I want to get a new one..."


    Xu Chuanchuan''splexion darkening, she said in a displeased tone, "I''m not lending it to you. I bought that phone for you justst year, yet you''re already looking to buy a new one? Do you think money grows on trees?"


    "I''ll pay you back once I start working!" Xu Xiangxiang said anxiously.


    Removing the hand that was grabbing at her arm, Xu Chuanchuan said upromisingly, "Since you can work and make money, wait until then to buy a new phone. The phone won''t run away, in any case."


    Xu Chuanchuan had spoiled her little sister rotten since young, and she couldn''t help but worry for her little sister''s future. While she wasn''t tight on money, she didn''t wish to condone Xu Xiangxiang''s materialistic behavior.


    Seeing her elder sister''s upromising attitude, Xu Xiangxiang felt aggrieved, and her eyes reddened.


    Her heart mellowing, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Fine, fine, fine. I surrender."


    Xu Xiangxiang''s face immediately brightened up.


    "I''ll give you another hundred."


    "..." Xu Xiangxiang thought to weep as she looked at the additional 100 yuan bill in her hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan returned to herpany in a hurry. When she arrived back in her cubicle, before she could turn on herputer and write a leave note, the engineering department''s chief walked over and said to her, "Little Xu, you came just in time. Go find Miss Murong this afternoon and help take pictures for her."


    Xu Chuanchuan began sweating bullets, her brain stalling for a second. Looking at her superior in a daze, she asked, "Which Miss Murong? The boss''s daughter?"


    "Otherwise, who else could it be? Oh, right, I forgot you took the morning off. We''ll be working under her from now on. Her assistant is absent today, and she wants to look around thepany. She also needs someone to help her take pictures, so you follow after her."


    Now that a week had gone by since theirst meeting, Xu Chuanchuan had wholly forgotten about Murong Shi''s existence. She never thought that such a huge event would ur during the few hours she was absent from thepany. After feeling shocked for a while, Xu Chuanchuan wiped away the cold sweat about to run down her chin. "Okay. I understand. What time in the afternoon?"


    The department chief responded, "You can call the general manager''s internal number. Miss Murong will be using that office from now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded in a daze.


    The department chief left after he was done assigning her work.


    After letting the air conditioning cool her mind a little, Xu Chuanchuan tried to get a sip of water, only to find that her cup was empty. Wetting her lips with her tongue, she dialed the number of the general manager''s office.


    Shortly after, a lukewarm "hello" came from the other end of the phone. Xu Chuanchuan was distracted for a moment when she realized that it was Murong Shi''s voice. Hurriedly, she said, "Hello, Miss Murong. I''m Xu Chuanchuan, the engineering department''s assistant. May I ask what time we will be taking photos in the afternoon?"


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi also paused for a moment on the other end of the phone. She then responded, "It''s you."


    <em>She still remembers me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan recalled the awkward meeting she had with Murong Shi in front of the general manager''s office a week ago. Immediately, a hint of unnaturalness shed across her face as she said, "Y-Yes, it''s me."


    Returning to Xu Chuanchuan''s question, Murong Shi said, "I''ve been waiting all day. Let''s do it now. Come over and meet me."


    <em>Knock, knock, knock</em>


    "Come in."


    The same voice entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears. However, hearing it being replicated by electric currents and hearing it through the door gave her twopletely different feelings. Pushing open the door, Xu Chuanchuan immediately saw Murong Shi seated on an executive chair.


    Murong Shi seemed to like tying her long hair into a high ponytail. She alsobed it meticulously, showing her full forehead and excellent facial features. Combined with her light makeup, she gave others a feeling of being capable and confident.


    In Xu Chuanchuan''s opinion, the person in front of her seemingly came with her own beauty filter and looked perfect from all angles. The only problem was that Murong Shi''s almond-shaped eyes held no warmth for others whatsoever.


    Finding it difficult to look at Murong Shi''s eyes calmly, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her gaze and said, "I''m ready on my side."


    Hearing this, Murong Shi closed her mailbox and locked herputer. She then stood up and said, "Let''s go, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly opened the door for Murong Shi, stood by the door respectfully, and made a weing gesture.


    When Murong Shi walked past Xu Chuanchuan, her sensitive nose caught a whiff of a strange smell. She then asked nonchntly, "Are you sick?"


    If Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know that she was the only other person present in the room, she would''ve thought that Murong Shi was talking to someone else. Looking up, she identally met with Murong Shi''s eyes. After hurriedly turning away, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No."


    Her nose twitching slightly, Murong Shi said, "You smell of medicine."


    <em>Is she talking about the traditional medicine smell?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan still hadn''t used the medicinal patches she received from her mother. She had merely touched it once before letting it sit inside her shoulder bag. However, it was inevitable for the smell of medicine to overflow from the bag. As a result, the scent had smoked her throughout her entire journey back to thepany.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t expect Murong Shi to have such a sharp nose. Afraid that this new leader of hers couldn''t tolerate the smell and ask her to change her clothes, she hurriedly said, "Thank you for your concern, Miss Murong. I...I sprained my back some time ago."


    She couldn''t help but feel vexed as soon as she finished speaking. Why did she even bother saying all these things? It wasn''t as if the other party truly cared about her.


    TL Notes:


    [1]red packets: a mary gift that you can send to specific individuals or an entire QQ messenger group. The red packet(money) sent to a group can be set so that a certain number of members(or every member) of the group can im a specific(or random) amount of money from it.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    Murong Shi found the medicinal smell unbearable, but she didn''t have Xu Chuanchuan change her clothes. Looking at the item in Xu Chuanchuan''s hands, Murong Shi asked, "What did you bring a camera for?"


    "Aren''t we supposed to take pictures?"


    "It''s just a few photos. No need to bring such specialized equipment."


    Xu Chuanchuan shifted her gaze between Murong Shi and the camera she held for a moment. She then asked hesitantly, "Can you wait here for a moment? This camera is quite heavy, so I wish to put it back first."


    Although it was rude for a measly department assistant to make such a request to thepany''s leader, Murong Shi wasn''t an unreasonable person. Nodding, she said, "Go ahead."


    Xu Chuanchuan fled the scene immediately.


    With her greatest speed, she dashed back to her office and rummaged through her shoulder bag. After digging through it for some time and tossing the box of medicinal patches to a side, she pulled out a small bottle of perfume.


    This perfume was a sample gift she received when she bought some skincare products online. Twisting the cap open, Xu Chuanchuan dabbed some of the liquid inside with her finger and rubbed it on her wrists. As an added measure, she also patted the excess liquid onto other parts of her body.


    Not daring to waste any more time, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her phone and a notebook before dashing back to Murong Shi. While panting from exhaustion, she said, "Sorry for the long wait."


    When Xu Chuanchuan got closer to her, Murong Shi immediately picked up the smell of perfume with her sensitive nose. The perfume''s scent was quite thick, and the medicinal smell from before had also disappeared, so Murong Shi could discern Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughtful gesture right away. However, she didn''t express much of an opinion on this matter.


    "Let''s go."


    "Where do you wish to start from?"


    In a casual tone, Murong Shi said, "We''ll start from whichever location is the dirtiest and messiest."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should follow up with this line.


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan''sck of response, Murong Shi raised an eyebrow and asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "Nothing" Xu Chuanchuan deemed that thepany''s washrooms were the dirtiest locations. Still, she couldn''t possibly bring Murong Shi to the washrooms, right? Blinking her eyes, she suggested, "How about the warehouse?"


    Murong Shi did not respond verbally. Instead, she raised her chin slightly, hinting at Xu Chuanchuan to lead the way.


    Xu Chuanchuan walked in front of Murong Shi in confusion. She couldn''t figure out what Murong Shi was trying to do. Was she looking to tour thepany building? Or was she deliberately looking for trouble? In addition, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t understand why Murong Shi would choose to take over thispany of all ces.


    Thepany Xu Chuanchuan worked at was involved in manufacturing luggage products. Thepany was small, and business had been sluggish for the past year. As far as she knew, the owner and his wife had founded thispany when they were young. Afterward, for some reason, the owner and his other business partners switched to real-estate investment and left this luggagepany idle after making a fortune. The proprietress was even more exotic. After pushing thepany''s management to her younger brother, she stopped caring about it altogether. After years of neglect, thepany was nothing more than an empty shell now.


    The total number of employees here was less than 50. No matter how Xu Chuanchuan wracked her mind, she couldn''t understand why the owner''s daughter would choose to manage this ce instead of one of the owner''s many other more sessful businesses.


    Linda was absent from work, and the engineering department''s assistant got arranged to her side for some inexplicable reason, so Murong Shi couldn''t help but take a few more looks at Xu Chuanchuan. For some reason, when Murong Shi recalled the situation that took ce in the KFC that day, where Xu Chuanchuan had aggrievedlyined to her about how she had mistakenly poured her Coke, she couldn''t help but let out a stifledugh.


    Although Murong Shi''sughter was soft, Xu Chuanchuan, who had her nerves tensed, heard it. However, when she turned around, what entered her eyes was Murong Shi''s expressionless face... For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan suspected that there was a problem with her ears.


    When Murong Shi''s eyes swept toward her indifferently, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt a strong pressure descending on her, and she quickly turned away.


    The next second, Murong Shi asked, "How long have you been working here?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt ttered that thepany''s new leader had taken the initiative to strike up a conversation with her. Doing her best to not make herself look overly humble or overbearing, she answered, "Three years."


    Switching to another question, Murong Shi asked, "What are your ns for the future?"


    Unsure what Murong Shi was getting at, Xu Chuanchuan pondered for a moment before answering, "I think ourpany is quite good. I wish to continue working here."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan''s answer sounded like ttery, this was indeed her true thoughts. There was less work in a smallpany, so she wouldn''t have to work overtime every day. This was a workstyle perfect for her. If she were to switch to a new environment, she couldn''t guarantee that she would have the energy to write novels after getting off work like she was doing now.


    Failing to get a glimpse at Xu Chuanchuan''s inner thoughts, Murong Shi stopped probing after asking two questions, reverting to her cold behavior.


    The warehouse was located at the first floor''s innermost location. The warehouse''s back door happened to be open at this time. When Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi arrived at the back door, they happened toe across a warehouse staff carrying a pile of discarded stic packaging out of the warehouse. The warehouse staff did not recognize Murong Shi. After rudely letting go of the items in his arms, he promptly turned around and left.


    When the stic packaging fell, they scattered to the ground, and some of themnded on Murong Shi''s high-heeled shoes that were worth tens of thousands of yuan. Seeing this, Murong Shi frowned unhappily.


    Noticing Murong Shi''s foul mood, Xu Chuanchuan thought to crouch down and push aside the rubbish on Murong Shi''s feet. However, someone grabbed her arm before she could do so.


    Murong Shi''s long fingers sped Xu Chuanchuan''s arm and pulled it back. Murong Shi then took a step back and said, "Don''t worry about it. Photograph it first."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt as if someone had wrapped ice around her arm when Murong Shi grabbed her, and she wondered if this was because the air conditioning in the general manager''s office had been set too cold. Fortunately, the difort quickly disappeared as Murong Shi released her.


    Straightening her posture, Xu Chuanchuan raised her phone and snapped a few pictures of the garbage pile.


    After waiting for Xu Chuanchuan to finish, Murong Shi said, "Go in and take a look."


    Xu Chuanchuan nced inside the warehouse, a distressed expression appearing on her face as she said, "I can''t..."


    Why couldn''t she enter? Because it was far too messy inside, and packaging boxes and white foam were blocking the entrance. There were also people yelling and shouting inside the warehouse, making it seem like a marketce.


    Noticing the obstacles as well, Murong Shi said with a darkened expression, "Nevermind."


    After avoiding the garbage in front of her, Murong Shi noticed a concrete staircase and said, "We''ll head up and take a look."


    Walking up the stairs was a strenuous activity, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have some doubts as she stared at Murong Shi''s heels.


    However, Murong Shi approached the stairs without hesitation, so Xu Chuanchuan followed in a hurry.


    Murong Shi appeared rxed as she ascended the stairs. She even moved faster than Xu Chuanchuan because of her long limbs. When she reached thending and was about to make a turn, she stopped suddenly, her beautiful eyes drawn toward a certain ce downstairs.


    Following Murong Shi''s gaze, Xu Chuanchuan found cigarette butts piled up in a corner and was rendered speechless. This time, she quickly raised her phone to take a photo without Murong Shi''smand.


    "There are some here as well," Murong Shi said as she pointed at a small gap between the transparent ss and concretending. The hole was stuffed with cigarette butts.


    These locations were rtively inconspicuous, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder how Murong Shi had managed to notice them. The gap Murong Shi just pointed out was so narrow and hidden that even after Xu Chuanchuan had crouched down and approached it, she still failed to get a full picture of it.


    As there was no air conditioning in the stairwell, Xu Chuanchuan began perspiring out of anxiety. Noticing her distress, Murong Shi said, "It doesn''t matter even if you can''t get everything."


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief at Murong Shi''s words. Storing her phone away, she tried to make conversation by saying, "Who would be so hical as to<em>hiss</em>!"


    As Xu Chuanchuan had stood up too abruptly, she identally sprained her back, the acute pain causing her to grit her teeth. While maintaining a half-squatting posture, she reached for something to hold onto in a panicand ended up grabbing one of Murong Shi''s chilly arms.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan maintained her bnce, a face had suddenly appeared in front of her.


    Bending over, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan oddly and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Only now did Xu Chuanchuan realize what she had just done. Although she tried to let go in a panic, she was surprised to find that Murong Shi had grabbed her hand instead. "Low blood sugar?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t need to look at a mirror to see the expression of agony she was currently making. She also didn''t care about being reserved at this moment. After standing up straight with Murong Shi''s support, Xu Chuanchuanughed awkwardly and said, "It''s nothing. I just sprained my waist."


    "Do you need me to help you down?"


    "No, no. No need for that." Frightened by Murong Shi''s offer, Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth and said, "It''s not serious; I can handle it..."


    Not having any doubts, Murong Shi released Xu Chuanchuan''s arm and said, "Let''s continue, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan responded "yes" repeatedly. After watching Murong Shi continue up the staircase, she steadied her breathing and supported her back while following Murong Shi.


    There was an iron door separating the stairwell from the second floor. The closer they got to the door, the more pungent the smell of tobo. Xu Chuanchuan exined, "That''s a smoking room."


    Murong Shi''splexion turned uglier when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Despite the smoking room being practically at arm''s reach, people were still throwing their cigarette butts in the stairwell.


    Xu Chuanchuan was truly afraid that Murong Shi would lose her mind now.


    At this time, a cheerful ringtone appeared. Sending Xu Chuanchuan a nce, Murong Shi said, "Let me take this call."


    Taking the hint, Xu Chuanchuan pushed open the iron door and entered the smoking room first.


    Probably because it was working hours now, nobody was upying the smoking room. As soon as Xu Chuanchuan entered the room, the unpleasant smell of tobo assaulted her nose.


    <em>Doesn''t seem like there''s anything to photograph here.</em>


    After circling the room once, Xu Chuanchuan caught sight of a t and square object in a corner of the room. Crouching down slowly, she picked up the object and found that it was actually an unused condom...


    <em>Why is something like this here?</em>


    As luck would have it, Murong Shi just so happened to have finished the call and entered the room at this time. Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s stunned appearance, Murong Shi asked, "What are you looking at?"


    In reality, though, even without Xu Chuanchuan telling her, Murong Shi had already seen through the identity of the object in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    Looking up, Xu Chuanchuan met with Murong Shi''s cold and indifferent eyes.


    Unsure if she was overthinking things, but Xu Chuanchuan thought there was a look of intrigue in those beautiful eyes. Growing flustered, Xu Chuanchuan blurted out, "This isn''t mine!"


    Hearing this, Murong Shi chuckled and asked, "What are you panicking for?"

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    This ce used to be an abandoned old factory building with arge area and three floors. Initially, Xu Chuanchuan had been the one leading Murong Shi around. Later on, probably because she got tired of Xu Chuanchuan''s short and slow legs, Murong Shi took the lead instead. Xu Chuanchuan, meanwhile, worked her short legs as she tried to keep up with Murong Shi.


    When the two of them arrived in the office area, someone finally recognized Murong Shi, and their arrival immediately caused a moment ofmotion. The staff members who had originally gathered to chat scattered like frightened birds and tentatively began typing away at their respectiveputers.


    As Murong Mingkun, who was in charge of thepany, had yet to return from a business trip, these office workers had grown fearless recently. Xu Chuanchuan was also quite familiar with such situations already. Though, it was a different story for Murong Shi.


    Sneaking a nce at Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan prepared herself for Murong Shi to explode in rage. However, contrary to her expectations, nothing of the sort happened.


    Murong Shi stood nkly for a moment before leaving without saying a word, baffling Xu Chuanchuan.


    An hourter, Xu Chuanchuan returned to the engineering department while supporting her aching back. As it so happened, the engineering department''s gossip lovers, Zhou Gong and Deng Gong, were present. Approaching Xu Chuanchuan, Zhou Gong asked eagerly, "Little Xu, Little Xu, what do you think of Miss Murong?"


    Blinking her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What do you mean?"


    Zhou Gong added, "How''s her personality? Is she easy to get along with? I heard she visited the office area just now and gave the bunch there a scare."


    Xu Chuanchuan took a sip of water and remained silent.


    She had only been in contact with Murong Shi for a short time, so how could she know what sort of personality Murong Shi possessed? As for whether it was easy to get along with her...


    Although Xu Chuanchuan had been overwhelmed by Murong Shi''s powerful aura throughout the tour, she did not dare casuallyment on thepany''s new leader. After taking another sip of water, she gave an ambiguous answer, "I guess she''s alright."


    After all, Murong Shi had offered her when she sprained her back.


    However, Zhou Gong and Deng Gong clicked their tongues when they heard Xu Chuanchuan''s reply. Knowing that they wouldn''t get to find out anything interesting from her, they left after losing interest.


    After Xu Chuanchuan finished her cup of water, she sat down and breathed out a deep sigh.


    Before leaving, Murong Shi had told Xu Chuanchuan to send the pictures she took to Linda. Opening her email, Xu Chuanchuan found Linda''s address and did as Murong Shi told her.


    Because Xu Chuanchuan had spent her whole morning apanying Murong Shi, she still had a lot of unfinished work in her hands when it was time to get off work. Yet, she also didn''t wish to work overtime because her back had started to hurt again. Hence, she decided to set aside her work until tomorrow.


    When everyone began leaving the office, Xu Chuanchuan went with them.


    After returning home and taking a bath, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed a medicinal patch and stuck it to her back. She thenid on her bed, grabbed her phone, and saw a message from Ange asking: "When will you start your new book?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m not getting any inspiration. I''ll think about it after I get some more rest."


    Ange: "Didn''t you say you wanted to write about a model?"


    Speaking of this topic, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently recalled Murong Shi. Setting aside the matter of her new book for the moment, she told Ange: "I met my boss''s daughter again today. Her assistant was absent, so I got called to be her assistant for an hour."


    Ange: "Any photos?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless. She never thought that Ange would still be thinking about this matter after such a long time. However, she had indeed snuck a shot of Murong Shi while thetter had not been paying attention this morning.


    Opening her photo album, Xu Chuanchuan quickly found the picture she secretly took. However, as she didn''t dare to be too tant, she only got a side shot. At that time, Murong Shi appeared to be checking her QQ messenger.


    Murong Shi''s facial features looked much more prominent from the side. She had a full forehead and a tall nose. Her curled eyshes also gave off an indescribable sense of charm.


    After staring for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan remembered that Ange was still waiting for her reply. After pondering for a moment, she then forwarded the picture.


    Several secondster, Ange replied: "Damn! Is this really your boss''s daughter? Are you sure you didn''t just send me some celebrity''s photo you found online???"


    Xu Chuanchuan was simrly stunned when she firstid eyes on Murong Shi. During the hour she spent following Murong Shi, she had remained jittery the entire time. However, she still couldn''t help herself sneaking peeks at Murong Shi from time to time. She simrly liked admiring beautiful women, but she would never react as intensely as Ange. Perhaps it was because she wasn''t a lesbian?


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s her. I snapped this with my phone. There''s no need to get so excited, right?"


    The next second, Ange calmed down and said: "But although she''s good-looking, her expression is too cold. I still prefer cute girls like you. Little Soup[1], be my girlfriend!"


    <em>Isn''t the topic getting changed too quickly?!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t surprised when she first found out Ange was a lesbian. After all, Ange was a yuri writer. The only problem she had was that Ange would asionally ask her to be her girlfriend from time to time. This was something she could never get used to.


    Her lips twitching, Xu Chuanchuan responded: "How about in our next life? Right now, I am very certain that I like men."


    Ange: "But I like you. What should I do? _"


    Treating Ange''s words as a joke, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "We''ve never even met. What if I''m a short and fat country bumpkin? Would you still like me?"


    Ange: "I won''t."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange: "Little Soup, send me a picture."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No! You won''t even send me yours, so why should I?"


    Ange: "You first."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No!"


    They had been holding such fruitless conversations almost every day, so Xu Chuanchuan had long since gotten used to it. After chatting with Ange, she noticed that her back no longer hurt as much.


    While reading through the messages in her reader group, Xu Chuanchuan saw a message asking when she would start her new book. After pondering for a moment, she replied: "I''ll do my best. In the meantime, you can read Lord Ange''s books if you''re free. They''re outstanding, and I''m reading them myself. Love you all <>


    With nothing better to do, Xu Chuanchuan thought to read one of Ange''s novels before going to sleep. However, as soon as she opened jjwxc''s application, she saw several unread messages from the system.


    The messages were a reply to the applications she had sent in via email, and they stated that two of her books had met the publisher''s requirements. Now, all she needed to do was print out the attached contract, sign it, and mail it to the publisher within a week.


    Xu Chuanchuan downloaded the attachment right away for fear of forgetting to do so afterward. She then decided to get the contract dealt with tomorrow.


    Although writing novels wasn''t something to be ashamed of, Xu Chuanchuan did not wish people in the three-dimensional world to recognize her.


    As the printing shop did not open early in the morning, Xu Chuanchuan only left home after having lunch.


    The printing shop''s owner was a middle-aged man. When he opened the document and saw the contents of the contract, he looked at Xu Chuanchuan curiously and said, "You know how to write novels? You even wrote so much. How amazing."


    Xu Chuanchuan only responded with a dryugh and dared not continue the topic.


    When the owner was about to ask another question, Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth and said, "I write BL novels, which are about gay men. Uncle, do you want to read it?"


    A trace of embarrassment shed across the owner''s face. He then said awkwardly, "I''ll pass. Novels of this type aren''t my cup of tea."


    After receiving the printed contract, Xu Chuanchuan ran away from the printing shop and stored the A4 paper in her shoulder bag.


    When Xu Chuanchuan arrived at her workce, she had received yet another pile of work. Combined with the unfinished work she had from yesterday, she ended up working overtime for the day.


    As it had rainedst night and the sun was ying hide-and-seek today, the weather was cooling. When Xu Chuanchuan opened the window to her office, a cool breeze blew at her face.


    Looking at the gloomy sky outside, Xu Chuanchuan wondered if it would rainter on. When she turned around, a loud "bang" entered her ears as the office''s originally shut wooden door was blown open by a strong gust of wind.


    Xu Chuanchuan was startled momentarily. By the time she snapped out of her daze, she suddenly noticed a piece of paper on her table getting blown into the air. Before she could reach out to grab it, the white paper whizzed past her fingertips and flew out the window. It then slowly drifted down to the concrete pavement downstairs.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face paled.


    That was the contract she had brought out to sign just now! The contract had her pen name and novel name written on it!


    Although the wind had blown many other things on her table to the floor, Xu Chuanchuan paid them no attention. After exiting her office and closing the door tightly, she ran for the elevator at the speed of a 100-meter sprinter.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that she definitely wouldn''t make it before her contractnded on the ground. She could only hope that everyone in thepany had left already at this time.


    However, when she rushed out of the elevator and saw the ck car parked outside the entrance, she halted her footsteps immediately.


    <em>That''s Murong Shi''s car...</em>


    Before Xu Chuanchuan had any time to wonder why Murong Shi had yet to leave, the ck Maserati Quattroporte moved.


    As the car slowly reversed, Xu Chuanchuan caught sight of Murong Shi sitting in the passenger seat. Xu Chuanchuan found the driver to be somewhat familiar, and she guessed that the person was Linda.


    Xu Chuanchuan was first taken aback. She then snapped out of her daze and greeted, "Miss Murong..."


    The moving car stopped. Murong Shi nced indifferently at Xu Chuanchuan''s panting figure and asked, "You haven''t got off work yet?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t think of a suitable reason for a moment. Ambiguously, she said, "I... I still have some unfinished work."


    "Why did youe running down in such a hurry, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan did not expect Murong Shi to look so deeply into the matter. Feeling a little awkward, she said, "I...came down to look for something."


    Maintaining her gaze on Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi asked, "Was that piece of paper yours?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression changed. However, she neither nodded nor shook her head to the question.


    The next moment, Murong Shi calmly said, "That cleaningdy picked it up thinking it was trash just now. I didn''t know it was yours."


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan followed Murong Shi''s gaze and noticed a cleaningdy pushing a trash can nearby. At this sight, Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief.


    Xu Chuanchuan hadn''t signed the contract yet, so even if the cleaningdy read the contract''s content, the cleaningdy wouldn''t know who the contract belonged to.


    Gulping down her saliva, Xu Chuanchuan smiled stiffly at Murong Shi and said, "It''s not anything important. It''s fine if she threw it away. Then...I''ll head back to work now. Drive safely."


    "Mhm."


    After Xu Chuanchuan left, Linda, who had remained silent all this time, looked at Murong Shi and asked curiously, "What was written on that paper?"


    However, Murong Shi did not respond. Instead, she stared at Xu Chuanchuan''s departing figure with a thoughtful look on her face.


    TL Notes:


    [1]Little Soup (): Xu Chuanchuan''s pen name is I Love Mtang (). Mtang is a type of spicy soup used in hotpot. Mtang can also be used to refer to hotpot [e.g., Let''s eat mtang. meaning, Let''s eat hotpot (with mtang as the soup base)].


    In the conversation between Chuanchuan and Ange, Ange refers to Chuanchuan by  (Little Soup), which takes the (tng, soup) from (mltng). Instead of "Little Tang-er," I''ve opted to go with "Little Soup" instead, so please remember this henceforth.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart raced when she entered the elevator. Half of the reason was that she had run too fast, and the other half was because she had been frightened by her meeting with Murong Shi.


    <em>That''s strange. Why is Murong Shi still here at this time?</em>


    When the wind blew her contract out of the office, Xu Chuanchuan had already spotted Murong Shi''s car at the building entrance. She only failed to recognize it immediately because she was in a hurry. Fortunately, she hadn''t signed her name on the contract. It was also fortunate that Murong Shi didn''t pick up the contract.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help but wonder in skepticism, <em>What if she saw the paper''s contents? Will she suspect me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mind had been aplete nk just now, so she had answered whatever Murong Shi asked her. She had even acknowledged that the paper was hers. If Murong Shi had tricked her


    <em>No way, no way. Why would she trick me? And even if she did see it There''s no reason for me to be afraid. Also, there''s no way someone like Murong Shi would read web novels.</em>


    The sound of a "ding" snapped Xu Chuanchuan out of her thoughts, and she exited the elevator feeling fortunate.


    The wind outside still billowed, but it wasn''t as raging as before. Although Xu Chuanchuan thought to tidy up her messed-up hair, when she opened the door to her office and saw the mess on the floor, she abandoned the thought and crouched down to pick up the fallen items.


    When Xu Chuanchuan moved close to the window, she stealthily took a peek and noticed Murong Shi''s car driving out of thepanypound slowly.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan abused thepany printer to print another copy of her contract. After signing the printed contract, she then stored it in a folder in haste.


    Inside the car, Murong Shi remained in a trance until she saw a person''s silhouette some distance ahead of the car.


    This person was pushing a trash can, and she was none other than the cleaningdy who picked up the A4 paper that had fallen out of the sky.


    Murong Shi did not urge the cleaningdy to move out of the way. Instead, a security guard had perceptively stepped forward and helped thedy push the trash can aside. When the car continued moving forward, Murong Shi nced at the cleaningdy, coincidentally meeting thetter''s gaze.


    The cleaningdy did not recognize Murong Shi, but she still gave Murong Shi an honest smile.


    Linda gradually elerated, the car making a bend and entering the traffic.


    Murong Shi pursed her lips as if in thought.


    In reality, Murong Shi had hidden a fact from Xu Chuanchuan before. While the cleaningdy had indeed picked up that paper, the paper just so happened to havended on the hood of Murong Shi''s car before being picked up.


    Meanwhile, when the cleaningdy picked up the paper and noticed that it was a contract, she couldn''t be certain if it was just scrap paper. And when she realized that someone was in the car, she gathered her courage, tapped on the car''s window, and asked, "Miss, can you help me take a look at what this means?"


    When Murong Shi saw the familiar words "I Love Mtang," a look of interest appeared on her originally expressionless face. She then smiled faintly at the cleaningdy and said, "I''m sorry, but I don''t quite understand it, either."


    In the end, the cleaningdy treated the paper as garbage and took it away.


    If Murong Shi hadn''t read a few web novels out of boredom before, she wouldn''t have paid that paper any attention. However, as luck would have it, she recognized the pen name written on the contract. She had even sent this author a Deep-water Torpedo out of anger.


    However, the contract did not contain the name of the novel she sent the Deep-water Torpedo to, so Murong Shi couldn''t be sure if this author was the same person. And just when Murong Shi was ruminating over the matter, Xu Chuanchuan appeared.


    Perhaps it was instinct, but when Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan''s panicked expression, she began having suspicions. Unexpectedly, after she deceived the other party with a white lie, Xu Chuanchuan admitted that the paper was hers. What did this mean?


    Although Murong Shi had her doubts, she wasn''t so bored as to waste her time verifying her conjecture.


    Linda got out of the car halfway through the trip, and Murong Shi drove the car home by herself.


    Murong Mingshu was in her early 50s. However, as she did not put much attention into taking care of herself, she had a skinny body and looked like a bag of bones. Currently, she wore a in skirt made out of cotton and linen, which made her look light and flimsy.


    Because of her thinness, her nasbial folds and crow''s feet were visible. However, despite how unhealthy her physical body looked, herplexion appeared surprisingly good. Judging by her facial features, she must''ve been a great beauty when she was young.


    When Murong Shi walked through the door and saw her mother setting up the table by herself, she hurried over and tried to help.


    When Murong Mingshu heard Murong Shi''s footsteps, she sent her daughter a nce and said, "I''m done here already. Go wash your hands and get ready for dinner."


    Hearing her mother''s insistence, Murong Shi gave up her thoughts and made her way to the bathroom. When she came out, she saw Murong Mingshu serving her a bowl of soup.


    Murong Mingshu gently and steadily handed the bowl to Murong Shi and said, "I bought a ck-bone chicken from a farmer today. He raised it himself, so the meat is a lot more fresh in taste. Give it a try."


    "Thank you, mom."


    Murong Shi did not rush to drink the soup. Instead, she looked at the kind smile on Murong Mingshu''s face and thought to ask "Why hasn''t dade home yet?", but held back from doing so in the end.


    "It''s not hot, so try it quickly."


    Only now did Murong Shi begin drinking the soup. She drank it slowly, savoring it carefully. She then revealed a satisfied smile and said, "It''s good."


    Feeling pleased, Murong Mingshu said, "If you like it, I''ll ask him for more next time."


    Murong Shi paused for a moment at her mother''s words. She then said, "Let Aunty do this kind of thing in the future."


    Ignoring her daughter''s advice, Murong Mingshu said, "I don''t have anything better to do, anyway. Why should I rely on others when I have my own hands and feet? By the way, stop having Linda apany me whenever I go for my prayers. She''s a young girl. It''s very embarrassing for her to apany an old woman to such a ce."


    After taking another sip of the soup, Murong Shi said casually, "I''ll go with you next time."


    Although Murong Mingshu''s face blossomed at her daughter''s words, her mouth said, "You don''t have that kind of patience, so don''t force yourself. I''ll have Aunty apany me in the future."


    "Okay."


    After finishing dinner, Murong Shi apanied Murong Mingshu for a stroll in themunity. And after returning home, they watched TV together.


    At one point, Murong Mingshu suddenly said, "Little Shi, I don''t like Shaohua. He isn''t suited for you."


    In response, Murong Shi looked at her mother with a partial smile and asked, "Who do you think is right for me, then?"


    Murong Mingshu hesitated for a moment before saying, "Don''t push yourself if you don''t like him. No matter how stubborn your father is, he won''t force you to be together with someone you don''t like."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Mom, I know what I''m doing. You should focus on living your own life and stop worrying about others, alright?"


    "You... It''s not a good thing for girls to be too assertive. You''ll live a tiring life."


    yfully, Murong Shi responded, "If the dayes I cultivate to your level, I''ll worship Buddha as well."


    "Hah... I can''t win against you."


    "Stop talking about this topic, then." Returning her attention to the TV, Murong Shi frowned and said, "Aren''t these actors a little too poor at acting? How can you even watch this show?"


    Afraid that her daughter would change the channel, Murong Mingshu snatched the remote control away and said, "Yan''er rmended it to me. She says this film is a novel adaptation. Although the actors are bad, the plot is quite good."


    Murong Yan was a novel enthusiast. If not for her, Murong Shi wouldn''t have started reading web novels at all.


    ...


    Late in the evening, Murong Shi took a bath andid on her soft,fy bed, her mind still wide awake.


    Looking at her phone, she noticed a striking green icon on the screen. The icon belonged to the jjwxc application she downloaded to read novels before. Murong Shi lightly tapped on the icon and entered the words "I Love Mtang" in the search bar without hesitation.


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes when the search results came out.


    She saw two book titles that matched the two titles she saw on that A4 paper from before.


    Could Xu Chuanchuan be the author?


    Driven by curiosity, Murong Shi tapped on the novel she donated the Deep-water Torpedo to before and began reading it.


    This was a troublesome problem.


    Murong Shi opened the familiar top-up page and sent a screenshot of the payment code[1] to Linda.


    Linda was a conscientious assistant. Despite it beingte at night, she still helped Murong Shi with her problem.


    Roughly a dozen secondster, Murong Shi received a system prompt notifying her that her top-up was sessful.


    Murong Shi: "Is 100 a lot?"


    Linda: "Are you sure it''s 100??? Did you type an extra zero just now? That''s 1,000 yuan!!! [image]"


    The picture Linda sent was a screenshot of her Alipay''s payment history. When Murong Shi saw the three zeros in front of the decimal point, her lips twitched subconsciously.


    Her finger had indeed slipped, and she ended up typing an extra zero.


    Seeing as she couldn''t refund the money, Murong Shi decided she would use the extra money to toss a few Deep-water Torpedoes in the future.


    As Murong Shi resumed her reading, she found that the author named I Love Mtang had rtively good writing, and her words were quite easy to understand. The book''s content, however...


    In Murong Shi''s opinion, the author was probably someone without rtionship experiences. The author described love innocently and romantically, and some plots thoroughly deviated from reality. Yet, for some reason, the other readers of the book would alwaysment "sweet, sweet, sweet" whenever such unrealistic situations urred.


    Murong Shi wasn''t particrly fond of sweet and innocent love, so she couldn''t empathize with the other readers. Inwardly, she thought to herself, <em>Could my mentality be growing old?</em>


    The book was short, so Murong Shi quickly reached the ending. Simultaneously, she also discovered an amazing fact.


    Perhaps Xu Chuanchuan was the author of this novel.


    Back problems...


    Xu Chuanchuan seemingly had back problems as well.


    Suddenly, Murong Shi''s mood changed subtly.


    TL Notes:


    [1]payment code: It''s a QR code for people wishing to pay via an e-wallet.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    Xu Chuanchuan tried to write the character settings and plot outline for her new book but failed to type a single word even after struggling for a long time.


    For some strange reason, whenever Xu Chuanchuan tried working her mind, Murong Shi''s expressionless face would immediately surface in her mind. As if Murong Shi knew Xu Chuanchuan was spying on her, her beautiful almond eyes stared at Xu Chuanchuan unkindly, warning Xu Chuanchuan not to go too far.


    <em>Novels and the real world are separate things. How could I simply lewd a three-dimensional person in my novel? If Murong Shi finds out about this...</em>


    <em>Of course, Murong Shi is unlikely to ever find out about this...</em>


    <em>But this still isn''t right. It''s too immoral </em>


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head in an attempt to shake her absurd ideas out of her mind. Yet, after abandoning this route, she failed to get any other inspirations. Seeing as she wasn''t making any progress, she decided to harass Ange.


    Unfortunately, Ange appeared to be upied with her work as she did not respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s messages.


    As she was destined to suffer from insomnia today, Xu Chuanchuan opened up her reader group and sent a greeting: "Anydies still awake at this hour?"


    Me!


    +1


    It''s almost two o''clock, Lord. Why aren''t you asleep yet? Are you writing?


    While Xu Chuanchuan was lightly tapping her fingers on the keyboard, another message appeared on the screen.


    You must not have a sex life since you''re not asleep at this time! Lord, are you still single? Do you need a girlfriend? I just so happen to be needing one as well! I can warm your bed~


    This wasn''t the first time Xu Chuanchuan''s readers had teased her. However, during the brief moment she paused to read the message, the group chat exploded with activity.


    Lord, I don''t have a girlfriend, either! I have a loli voice! Be my sugar mommy!


    Lord, you must be a cute girl, right? I''ll be your sugar mommy!


    Hey, hey, hey, the Lord hasn''t spoken yet. What if the Lord already has a girlfriend?


    She shouldn''t have one, right? I''ve never heard of the Lord bringing it up. Lord, hurry up ande out! @I Love Mtang


    Did we scare away the Lord?


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hands hovered above her keyboard for several seconds. She then deleted the words she typed before and reced them with "I''m not bent." However, before she could press the Enter key, someone else eagerly answered her readers on her behalf.


    Quiet, quiet. Let me say a few words. Are you people new here? Do you not know that your Lord is straight???


    The person who said these words were Ange, and her ID in the group was "I Love Hotpot." Apart from Xu Chuanchuan, nobody else knew of Ange''s true identity. Meanwhile, as a moderator of the group, Ange''s words still held some weight.


    Lord isn''t bent? How can such a cute girl not be bent? I don''t believe it! [Cry]


    Even if she was straight initially, she should''ve been bent after writing so many yuri novels! This is unscientific!


    Does the Lord sleep with her fans?


    Xu Chuanchuan finally couldn''t remain silent any longer and responded: "I do not sleep with my fans! I like men!"


    Lord, you''re so cruel. You shattered my dreams. [Grief]


    I love you no matter what, Lord. [Kiss] I used to think I was straight, but ever since I read your books, I can''t help but imagine myself falling in love with your protagonists. I would even dream about them sometimes. [Shy] Doesn''t this mean I''m about to be bent already?


    <em>Can sexual orientations even be changed so easily?! This is impossible, right?!</em>


    Looking at the texts in the chat window, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder to herself, <em>Why have I never dreamed of falling in love with my prince charming?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan''s prince charming was a trending celebrity, and he had good acting skills and singing.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan tried closing her eyes, she unexpectedly found that not only did her prince charming not appear, but Murong Shi''s cold and expressionless face had appeared again instead.


    Frightened by this, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly opened her eyes, patted her chest, and mumbled to herself, "I was wrong, I was wrong. I won''t dare have obscene thoughts about you anymore, so please spare me"


    The group was still discussing the matter of "bent and straight." Afraid of continuing the conversation, Xu Chuanchuan quickly sent a few red packets to the chat.


    As the group members began frantically snatching the red packets, they quickly forgot about the previous topic.


    Before going to bed, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her phone and read thements made to her books. She then discovered that someone had sent her a Deep-water Torpedo to the book she had recently concluded. While this in itself wasn''t something to be surprised about, it was a different story for the senderPasserby.


    Narrowing her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan wondered, <em>Does she like my story?</em>


    <em>She should like it, right? Otherwise, why would she give me so many donations?</em>


    ...


    When Xu Chuanchuan came across Murong Shi again in an office corridor, guilt flooded her heart. Lowering her head, she greeted, "Good morning, Miss Murong."


    "Good morning," Murong Shi responded in a lukewarm tone.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not linger around, so she quickly moved aside and left the scene.


    Murong Shi trailed Xu Chuanchuan''s back with her gaze until thetter disappeared into the pantry.


    Confused by this situation, Linda asked, "What...are you looking at?"


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes, her gaze seeming capable of prating the pantry wall. She then asked, "Do you think she''s special?"


    Linda followed Murong Shi''s gaze and wondered if Murong Shi could still see Xu Chuanchuan''s figure. Unsure what her boss was trying to say, Linda recalled Xu Chuanchuan''s image in her mind before answering, "She looks pretty cute. As for her other parts... There doesn''t seem to be anything special."


    Murong Shi withdrew her gaze and let out an inaudibleugh. She then said, "I didn''t notice anything special, either."


    Linda: "..."


    Although Murong Shi had no way of confirming her conjecture, her instincts told her that there was a 99% chance that Xu Chuanchuan was the author named I Love Mtang.


    Who could''ve possibly imagined that a mediocre and obscure employee in thepany would be a novel author? Moreover, by the looks of it, she had quite an excellent performance as well.


    Most importantly, she was even a yuri author... Could Xu Chuanchuan be a lesbian?


    Murong Shi retracted her thoughts and made her way into the general manager''s office.


    Linda had drafted the newpany rules and regtions ording to Murong Shi''s instructions. She had also sent the revised documents to Murong Shi''s mailbox already. After entering the office, she said, "See if there is anything that needs to be changed."


    Murong Shi downloaded thepressed file attached to the email. When she opened the unpacked documents and saw a wall of text appearing on herputer, she felt her mind growing dizzy for a moment and ended up yawning.


    Seeing this, Linda asked, "Did you not sleep wellst night?"


    "Mhm," Murong Shi vaguely responded as she took a sip of coffee.


    After taking a closer look at Murong Shi''splexion, Linda lowered her voice and asked, "Is it because you were reading novelsst night?"


    The room''s air conditioning was set to a freezing temperature, and plumes of white mist emerged from the coffee cup one after another, the water vapor shrouding Murong Shi''s warmthless eyes. While silently drinking her coffee, Murong Shi''s eyes moved toward a particr spot on her desk. She then asked, "What''s that?"


    Linda grabbed the pile of documents and answered, "These are employee files and some old documents. Do you want to look through them now?"


    Pointing at her desk, Murong Shi said, "Leave it here. You can go out now."


    After having her question ignored in such a manner, Linda did not dare to inquire any further. After setting down the documents, she quickly turned around and left.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi slowly sipped the remaining liquid in her cup. A lot of sugar had been added to this coffee, so she quickly grew tired of it. After setting the empty cup aside, she returned her gaze to herputer. Although her eyes were scanning the dense wall of text in front of her, her mind was pondering over Linda''s unanswered question.


    Murong Shi had indeed failed to get sufficient sleepst night because she was upied with reading.


    If Murong Shi had to be honest, that book wasn''t particrly attractive. She even felt that some of the plots were naive, and she had to resist the urge to give the point reduction several times.


    Yet, despite the disgust in her heart, Murong Shi strangely found that the more she read, the more she couldn''t stop reading the book. The author''s unpretentious writing appeared to have a magical power that made people rx both physically and mentally and have the urge to continue reading. By the time Murong Shi finished reading the 300,000-word novel, it was already two o''clock in the morning.


    Thank you, Passerby, for your Deep-water Torpedo. Love you~ Muah~


    Murong Shi regarded this polite gesture positively. The only issue she had with it was the message''sst segment.


    Seeing as she had a lot of excess points, Murong Shi drowsily sent a Deep-water Torpedo before falling asleep.


    The document Linda prepared had a lot of content. Seeing as she couldn''t finish reading it within a short time, Murong Shi called Linda into her office again and said, "Send an email to everyone and have them clean their offices starting this afternoon. Also, conduct an inspection before you get off work. Whoever fails toply will have their entire department''s performance points deducted."


    Linda left after receiving her task.


    When afternoon arrived, the wholepany fell into chaos.


    However, Murong Shi paid no attention to themotion outside as she focused on the documents Linda sent her. At some point, she decided to have a restroom break, only toe across Xu Chuanchuan in the restroom.


    Xu Chuanchuan was standing in front of a sink when Murong Shi entered. The movement of the restroom door attracted her attention. When she lifted her head and noticed that the new arrival was Murong Shi, an awkward look shed across her face. She then asked, "Miss Murong...do you want to wash your hands?"


    However, Murong Shi did not move even after Xu Chuanchuan had stepped aside. When Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s fair and lovely face and recalled that she had read this person''s novelst night, a strange feeling appeared in her heart.


    Xu Chuanchuan got goosebumps from Murong Shi''s stare. Afraid that Murong Shi would misunderstand her for cking, she wrung the wet rage in her hands and headed for the entrance. "I''ll head back to work now."


    When they were about to brush past each other, Murong Shi inexplicably asked, "Is your back alright?"


    "Huh?"

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    Because Xu Chuanchuan rode her bicycle to work every day, she seldom wore high heels. When standing in front of Murong Shi, who wore high heels, Xu Chuanchuan appeared slightly shorter than the other party. This height difference created an invisible pressure that caused Xu Chuanchuan to wish to scamper aside and avoid Murong Shi subconsciously.


    Of course, while Xu Chuanchuan might''ve had such a thought, her logical mind prevented her from behaving so rudely. Instead, she blinked her eyes and replied, "My back is...m-mostly recovered."


    Actually, Murong Shi was currently feeling a little surprised by herself. If she were to be honest, she didn''t care about Xu Chuanchuan''s health. It was just that she had suddenly thought of the novel she readst night, and it just so happened that she hade across Xu Chuanchuan, so she had the sudden urge to verify her conjecture.


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan''s answer did not help prove anything.


    After snapping out of her daze, Murong Shi calmly nodded as if the words she spoke before were merely her subconscious greeting. She then stopped asking questions and made her way into one of the empty stalls.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan left the restroom with an inexplicable feeling in her heart.


    This day was just like any other.


    Xu Chuanchuan rode her tattered bicycle home. Because of the rush hour traffic, she rode very slowly. When waiting for a traffic light, she answered a call from Xu Xiangxiang.


    "Sis, are you done with work? Have you eaten yet?"


    When someone began behaving differently out of the blue, they must''ve conducted something evil or obscene.


    Parking her bicycle at the side of the road, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "I just got off, and I haven''t eaten yet. Why did you call me? If it''s about borrowing money, don''t even think about it."


    Xu Xiangxiang choked slightly. She then snorted and said, "I''m calling because I miss you. Is that wrong? Cheapskate. I won''t borrow any money from you. I''ll find a way to earn it myself."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt pleased that her younger sister was finally showing a little ambition. "Sure. If you want money, earn it yourself. You have my full support. If you have something to say, hurry up and say it."


    "It''s nothing important. I don''t have any sses this weekend, so I''m thinking of visiting you."


    The 90-second red light was a torment, and the motorway next to her was jam-packed with cars. Sending a nce at the endless line of vehicles, Xu Chuanchuan inwardly thought to herself, <em>This traffic jam sure is scary.</em>


    In the meantime, Xu Chuanchuan nonchntly responded to Xu Xiangxiang, "Come if you want."


    Unbeknownst to Xu Chuanchuan, a ck Maserati Quattroporte had, at some point, stopped several meters away to her left. When she craned her neck to look at the traffic and noticed this car, the car''s agitated driver just so happened to have looked in her direction as well.


    "Huh, isn''t that person"


    Murong Shi, who was currently fiddling with her phone in the passenger seat, looked up when she heard Linda''s mutterings. She then followed Linda''s gaze and noticed the bicycle stopped by the roadside. And almost immediately, she recognized the person riding atop the bike.


    The bicycle was a women''s model, pink in color, and looked somewhat old. Riding atop the bike was a small frame. The person''s face was flushed because of the sun, and a few strands of sweat-drenched hair could be seen stuck to her face.


    At this time, the female rider freed one of her hands to sweep aside her stuck hair. However, her actions destabilized her center of gravity, and she ended up losing control of her bicycle and falling to the ground miserably.


    Seeing this scene, Murong Shi couldn''t help but let out a peal of stifledughter.


    After all, despite having such short legs, Xu Chuanchuan still chose to mimic others and support her bicycle with just one leg on the ground.


    Meanwhile, although Linda could only see half of Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she still recognized thetter. Only, she couldn''t recall the other party''s name for a moment.


    When Linda heard a stifledughing from beside her, she turned to look at Murong Shi in shock.


    Linda always thought that Murong Shi was incapable ofughing. Though, even she knew how absurd of this thought of hers. Regardless, this was her first time seeing Murong Shi revealing aplete smile. While it wasn''t a very bright smile, there was no doubt it looked beautiful. It was akin to witnessing an ice lotus''s once-in-a-century bloom.


    If Linda were a man, Murong Shi''s smile would''ve mesmerized her. After seeing this smile, she couldn''t help but think that Murong Shi should smile more often. Yet, for some reason, Murong Shi would always put on a mask of indifference, and most men wouldn''t even dare approach her after seeing her expressionless face.


    Naturally, Linda wouldn''t dare casually make such a suggestion to Murong Shi. Though, she did wonder why Murong Shi had put on such an uncharacteristic disy all of a sudden.


    <em>Is it because of that employee outside? That Xu-what''s-her-name?</em>


    While Linda was racking her brain thinking about this problem, Murong Shi suddenly said, "It''s green now."


    As the car in front had begun moving, Linda had no choice but to retract her gaze and focus on driving again. Unfortunately, when she snuck another peek at the person beside her, Murong Shi''s smile had already disappeared.


    While peeking, Linda inadvertently noticed the green icon on Murong Shi''s phone. She remembered that it was the application Murong Shi had downloaded to read novels. Unable to hold back her curiosity, Linda asked, "What kind of novel are you reading? Is it <em>that </em>interesting?"


    Murong Shi slid her slender finger back and forth on the screen. When she heard Linda''s question, she vaguely replied, "It''s not interesting."


    <em>Why did you top up so much money if it isn''t interesting? </em>Linda inwardly retorted.


    Xu Chuanchuan returned to her rented apartment covered in sweat. Not having much of an appetite, she grabbed a pack of instant noodles from the refrigerator.


    While waiting for the water to boil and cooling down in her air-conditioned apartment, Xu Chuanchuan opened herputer, logged into QQ, and saw an avatar shing in the lower-right corner of her screen.


    It was Ange.


    Ange: "You might not believe it, but Citrus invited me out today."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "To where? Aren''t you two living in different cities?"


    Ange: "That''s right. She flew to Shanghai today, saying that she''s here to participate in an animation exhibition or something. She says she wants to meet me."


    Xu Chuanchaun didn''t quite understand the matter between Ange and Fragrant Citrus. After all, she was only acquainted with Ange through the two-dimensional world, so she didn''t find it appropriate for her to intrude on the other party''s privacy.


    However, since Ange was bringing up the topic herself, Xu Chuanchuan politely asked: "Did you agree?"


    Ange: "She sent me a picture of her Athena cosy. Honestly, I was a little tempted, but I rejected her in the end. If she thinks I''ll fall for a honeytrap, think again! Hmph!"


    Xu Chuanchuan chuckled at Ange''sment. Though, she also couldn''t help but be puzzled: "You two have separated for so long now, yet you still have each other''s contact?"


    Ange: "You''re falsely using me. I''ve long since deleted her. She''s the one insisting on pestering me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Why is she so persistent to you, then?"


    Ange: "Probably because she wants to bed me but never managed to?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange: "How are your new book''s preparationsing along?"


    Letting out a groan, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "Not very good. I''m stuck in a slump."


    Ange: "Slump?"


    Murong Shi was the original inspiration for Xu Chuanchuan''s new book. Now that Xu Chuanchuan had discovered Murong Shi''s identity, she would never dare use thetter as a reference.


    Yet, Xu Chuanchuan was also reluctant to let go of her idea. Hence, to find new inspiration, Xu Chuanchuan began searching the Inte for Victoria''s Secret videos.


    Fortunately, after working all night, Xu Chuanchuan finallypleted her character setting and plot outlines.


    Unfortunately, she overslept because of her exhaustion and very nearly came inte for work.


    When Xu Chuanchuan was clocking in for work, she ran into Chen Lina, who was also almostte for work. Seeing Xu Chuanchuan, Chen Lina teased, "It''s so nice to take the subway on such a hot day. Aren''t you tired of riding that bike of yours to work every day? You''re the only one in thepany doing that."


    Shrugging helplessly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I live far away from the subway station."


    "Then take the bus!"


    "I get car sick easily."


    "You''re quite fragile."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t deny this statement.


    When the two entered the lobby, an urgent voice entered their ears. "You two came just in time. Can one of you do me a favor?"


    The person calling for them was Xu Xiaomei, the receptionist.


    Without hesitation, Chen Lina replied, "I''m busy. I''ll be leaving first."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless by Chen Lina. When she saw the look of urgency on Xu Xiaomei''s face, she helplessly walked over and asked, "What do you need help with?"


    Xu Xiaomei held up a wad of toilet paper with one hand and held her stomach with her other hand. While frowning, she said, "I ate some watermelonst night, and it ruined my stomach. Can you help me look after the front desk for a moment?"


    Xu Chuanchuan never had to attend any morning meetings, so her department chief wouldn''t mind if she came in a few minuteste. Seeing Xu Xiaomei''s look of agony, Xu Chuanchuan pondered for a moment before answering, "Sure. Go ahead."


    Revealing a look of joy, Xu Xiaomei said, "I promise I''ll be quick. There''s going to be a delivery arriving in a moment. Give him this registry and have him fill it in. I''m going now."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could respond, Xu Xiaomei had run away already.


    Setting her shoulder bag aside, Xu Chuanchuan thought to sit down. However, before she could do so, the doorbell rang.


    Looking up, Xu Chuanchuan found a well-dressed man standing outside the entrance''s ss door.


    There was no way a courier would dress so decently. Trotting over to the entrance, Xu Chuanchuan opened the door for the other party.


    "Hello, Sir. May I know who you are looking for?"


    The man put his hands into his pockets andzily nced around before saying, "I''m looking for Murong Shi. Is she in?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know whether Murong Shi was present in thepany or not, but she still smiled and asked, "May I get your surname, Sir? Do you have an appointment?"


    However, the man pulled out one of his hands, scratched his hairsprayed hair, and said with a sneer, "I''m her boyfriend. Do I need an appointment to see her?"


    <em>Boyfriend?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but take a closer look at the man before her. The man had an innocent face. However, he had an indecent smile andcked consideration for the personal space of others when speaking.


    <em>This face... Where have I seen it before...</em>


    The next second, realization dawned upon Xu Chuanchuan. Wasn''t this man the unlucky fellow Murong Shi pped and poured Coke onst time?


    As the man moved closer and closer to Xu Chuanchuan, Xu Chuanchuan also gradually retreated. She then asked persistently, "What is your surname, Sir? I need it to notify Miss Murong."


    Annoyed, the man said, "It''s Jiang."


    "Please wait a moment, Mr. Jiang." Xu Chuanchuan ran back to the front desk, picked up thendline, and dialed the general manager''s internal number. At the same time, she also closely observed the man for any strange movements.


    Fortunately, aside from showing an annoyed look, the man didn''t do anything else.


    After the phone rang three times, the call connected. Murong Shi''s lukewarm voice then came through the phone, "What is it?"


    While warily eyeing the man, Xu Chuanchuan said in a lowered voice, "Miss Murong, there''s a Mr. Jiang here. He...says he''s your boyfriend, and he wishes to see you."


    "Have him get lost."


    "..."

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    Murong Shi hung up as soon as she finished speaking, leaving Xu Chuanchuan in a daze. Based on Murong Shi''s tone, Xu Chuanchuan guessed that the other party should be angry. Although Xu Chuanchuan knew that this anger wasn''t directed toward herself, she still felt a little wronged.


    Growing impatient, Jiang Shaohua tapped his finger on the desk and asked, "Are you done?"


    Xu Chuanchuan returned the receiver to its ce and replied, "I''m sorry, Mr. Jiang, but Miss Murong doesn''t wish to see you."


    Compared to Murong Shi''s "get lost," Xu Chuanchuan was already mild-mannered.


    "What is she trying to say?"


    <em>Literally what it means. Is it so difficult to understand?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was a typical person who was verbally active while conversing through the two-dimensional world but silent in the three-dimensional world. She very rarely spoke to outsiders when working in the real world. She also preferred quiet and would rarely find trouble. Hence, she found her current situation very distressful.


    <em>Why hasn''t Xiaomeie back yet?</em>


    After calming herself, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Miss Murong might be busy right now and isn''t free to entertain guests."


    "If it''s inconvenient for her toe to me, I''ll head in myself," Jiang Shaohua said. There was no way he would believe such a poor excuse.


    Xu Chuanchuan panicked and stepped out from behind the desk to stop Jiang Shaohua. "Mr. Jiang, you cannot do this!"


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s outstretched hand, Jiang Shaohua asked arrogantly, "Do you know who I am?"


    <em>Who cares? Why must you two direct your anger toward me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan began having a temper, her red flushing red. However, she still put on a firm stance and said, "Sorry, but I am only an employee following rules. Please don''t make things difficult for me."


    Jiang Shaohua ignored her words and strode forward.


    "Mr. Jiang!" Xu Chuanchuan stopped him once more.


    After a series of back and forth, Jiang Shaohua suddenly started noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s appearance. He had met many pretty and coquettish women before, but this was the first time he found a woman without makeup to be attractive. Xu Chuanchuan had a refreshing face, and although her facial features were not outstanding, the way her eyes erged when ring at someone made her look kind of cute.


    After fearlessly inspecting the woman before him, Jiang Shaohua asked, "What''s your name?"


    This sudden development confused Xu Chuanchuan, and she couldn''t help but grow cautious. Subconsciously covering up the nametag on her chest, she said, "My surname is Xu."


    Jiang Shaohua noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s actions but remained persistent. "I''m asking for your name. You don''t look like you''re over 25. Do you have a boyfriend?"


    What was going on here? Didn''t this person im to be Murong Shi''s boyfriend?


    Xu Chuanchuan stiffened her expression and tly said, "I''m sorry, but it is currently office hours. I''m not allowed to talk about matters unrted to work."


    However, Jiang Shaohua remained stubborn and said, "What are you afraid of? There''s nobody else here."


    "There is surveince here," Xu Chuanchuan said as she pointed upward.


    Looking up, Jiang Shaohua exchanged looks with the two surveince cameras above for a moment before revealing an intriguing smile.


    <em>Ding dong, ding dong</em>


    The entrance''s doorbell rang abruptly as the delivery Xu Xiaomei previously spoke of finally arrived.


    Afraid that Jiang Shaohua would slip by while she was preupied, Xu Chuanchuan chose to open the door remotely this time.


    After the courier entered the lobby with a stack of deliveries in his arms, he looked at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Did the other receptionist get reced?"


    Handing the registry to the courier, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No, she went to the restroom. I''m just standing in for the moment."


    "Oh." The courier grabbed the pen in his breast pocket and began filling out the registry.


    A curious gaze appeared in Jiang Shaohua''s eyes when he overheard the courier''s words. Looking at Xu Chuanchuan, he asked, "You''re not the receptionist? What do you work here as, then?"


    Pretending to be calm, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Chitchats are not allowed during office hours."


    Laughing, Jiang Shaohua said, "Fine, then. Since you''re not the receptionist, you have no reason to stop me." He then began striding toward the elevator.


    Xu Chuanchuan''splexion paled, and she immediately moved to stop Jiang Shaohua. "Mr. Jiang, I''m calling security if you continue this!"


    "I must meet Murong Shi today no matter what."


    The courier briefly nced at the two. However, as this matter was unrted to him, he lowered his head and resumed filling out the registry.


    At the same time, inside the general manager''s office


    Twoputers sat on the spacious office desk. One was Murong Shi''s personalputer, while the other slightlyrger one was connected to thepany building''s surveince system.


    While organizing the newly-drafted documents, Linda inadvertently took notice of a scene captured by a surveince camera. In a suspicious tone, she muttered, "Young Master Jiang still hasn''t left. Strange, isn''t this <em>that </em>person?"


    Having her thoughts interrupted, Murong Shi asked, "What are you talking about?"


    "Here, take a look." Linda moved the cursor to the surveince video in question and erged it.


    Murong Shi shifted her attention to theputer next to her and immediately recognized the two figures disyed on it to be Jiang Shaohua and Xu Chuanchuan. Narrowing her eyes, she thought to herself, <em>No wonder why that voice sounded so familiar. So Xu Chuanchuan was the one who called just now.</em>


    Murong Shi didn''t know why Xu Chuanchuan would be the one to call her, but she couldn''t help but frown as she watched Jiang Shaohua and Xu Chuanchuan repeatedly going back and forth, left and right with each other. "What are those two doing? Are they ying tag?"


    Linda failed to understand Murong Shi''s humor. Looking at Murong Shi''s stern expression, she asked cautiously, "Young Master Jiang might be here for something important. Why don''t you meet him?"


    Murong Shi''s frown deepened.


    Thinking that Murong Shi was unwilling to meet with Jiang Shaohua, Linda suggested, "How about I"


    "Have hime in."


    Two minutester


    Jiang Shaohua waltzed into the general manager''s office under Linda''s guidance. He then spoke loudly to the person seated in the executive chair, "Murong Shi, why did you cklist my number? On what grounds do you have to stop me from entering?"


    Not even bothering to spare Jiang Shaohua a nce, Murong Shi said, "If you''re here to apologize, be done with it quickly and leave."


    "Apologize? Who should apologize to who? You''re the one who pped me in public that day!"


    Seeing that the situation was developing poorly, Linda hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Young Master Jiang, please have some tea. If you have anything to say, sit down and say it slowly."


    However, Jiang Shaohua did not appreciate Linda''s gesture as he stated, "I''m not drinking."


    Murong Shi''splexion turned ugly. Looking at Linda, who was shuddering, she said, "Go outside first."


    As if having received amnesty, Linda hurriedly left the room and shut the doors behind her.


    Meanwhile, Jiang Shaohua sat on a nearby sofa, the anger on his face still lingering.


    Slowly, Murong Shi said, "You know full well why I hit you. Jiang Shaohua, I don''t care what you do with your time, but don''t ever think of ying tricks with me."


    Breathing out a deep sigh, Jiang Shaohua said, "I''m not trying to y tricks with you. That Shuangshuang is just too annoying. She keeps sticking to me wherever I go."


    Tossing the document in her hands aside, Murong Shi raised her tone and said, "That doesn''t mean I''m responsible for cleaning up your messes!"


    Jiang Shaohua put on a shameless smile and said, "You can''t say that. The two of us are in the same boat, after all. How can you not help me if I''m in trouble?"


    Sneering, Murong Shi answered, "Sure. Every help I provide will cost you a p. Feel free to ask for as much help as you need."


    Touching the spot Murong Shi pped him previously, Jiang Shaohua inadvertently shuddered. "Murong, aren''t you"


    "I don''t wish to continue wasting time on this topic. If you have nothing else to say, stop interfering with my work."


    "Fine, fine, fine, I''ll stop talking about this. Anyway, my birthday ising up soon. I don''t n to hold a big celebration, but I will invite some friends out to y. Don''t forget to show up."


    "I''m not going."


    Instead of getting angry, Jiang Shaohua smiled and said, "No, you will go." Without waiting for Murong Shi to respond, he continued, "You need to y the part if you''re going to put on an act. If you don''t go, what should I do when Uncle Sun asks me about it?"


    Murong Shi fell silent.


    Jiang Shaohua knew that his words were on point. Standing up in delight, he fearlessly winked at Murong Shi and said, "I''lle to fetch you when the timees."


    Ignoring Jiang Shaohua''s actions, Murong Shi said, "You can get lost now.''


    However, instead of leaving, Jiang Shaohua walked closer to Murong Shi and asked, "I noticed there''s a chick in thispany who looks pretty good, though she''s a little rash in the head. You have thepany''s employee files with you, right?"


    Indifferent, Murong Shi asked, "What are you getting at?"


    A mischievous glint appearing in his eyes, Jiang Shaohua said, "I want her number, of course! However, she won''t tell me her name. I think her surname is Xu. I doubt there are many people with that surname in yourpany."


    <em>Xu Chuanchuan?</em>


    Murong Shi found it unbelievable that Jiang Shaohua would take a liking to Xu Chuanchuan. Though, on second thought, she found it to be quite reasonable as well. Jiang Shaohua had probably grown tired of eating savory dishes constantly, so he might be thinking of switching to a milder taste.


    Failing to receive a reply, Jiang Shaohua began rummaging through the documents on Murong Shi''s table. "Is it here?"


    However, Murong Shi quickly held down the documents with a hand and said in a lukewarm tone, "You best not have any ideas over her."


    Stunned, Jiang Shaohua asked, "Does she have a boyfriend?"


    In a half-threatening tone, Murong Shi continued, "Whether she has one or not, I will not let youy a hand on anyone in thispany." She then grabbed the phone beside her and pressed down on a speed dial number. When the call connected, she said, "Linda, see our guest off."


    Linda quickly appeared and respectfully said, "Young Master Jiang, this way, please."


    Jiang Shaohua left the room in a huff and mmed the door shut on his way out. While walking to the elevator, he grumbled, "This woman must be sick in the head."


    Linda did not dare to follow up with Jiang Shaohua''s words. Instead, she smiled and said, "Young Master Jiang, women need to be coaxed."


    Narrowing his eyes at Linda, Jiang Shaohua asked, "How do I coax her?"


    "If you want to gain her favor, give her a gift!"


    Unfortunately, Jiang Shaohua did not understand Murong Shi whatsoever. He never even gave her a gift before. After struggling for a moment, he asked, "What does she like?"


    Surprised, Linda said, "Shouldn''t you know this better than me? I''ve known Miss Murong for less than a month."


    A hint of awkwardness appearing on his face, Jiang Shaohua cleared his throat and said, "Temperamental women like her constantly change their likes and dislikes. You''ve been by her side the most recently. Did you notice her showing interest in anything?"


    "This" After racking her mind for some time, Linda answered, "Miss Murong seems to have gotten hooked with reading novels recently."


    "Local or foreign masterpieces?"


    Shaking her head, Linda said, "No, web novels."


    "What''s that?"

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    Panicking, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly exined, "It was initially, but now it isn''t."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''ste. I still need to work tomorrow."


    Ange: "In that case, chat with me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What do you want to talk about?"


    Ange: "Let me tell you a joke. Citrus found another girlfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Another?"


    Ange: "Didn''t I tell you she came to Shanghai a few days ago and invited me out? She sent me a picture today, boasting that she found a new girlfriend. She says that this girlfriend of hers is a tycoon reader ranked number one on her contribution list and that this person has donated several tens of thousands to her already. Isn''t this infuriating?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Don''t get angry. The number of tycoon readers supporting you is no less than hers."


    Ange: "I cklisted her number out of rage."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Just let it be. Out with the old, in with the new. You can always find another one."


    Ange: "Who should I look for? Should I look for a tycoon reader as well? Forget it. I don''t want to be like her."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Stay single with me, then."


    Ange: "Tang''er, make sure to find me the day you get bent. I promise to marry you. [Kiss]"


    Ange was at it again.


    Having gotten used to Ange''s antics, Xu Chuanchuan turned the tables and replied: "Sure. So long as you don''t mind spending the rest of your life alone, keep on waiting. You might get your chance in the next life."


    Ange: "Tch. How boring. I might as well spend the rest of my life with my books."


    The two of them continued with their unproductive conversation. Partway through the conversation, the topic of Murong Shi suddenly came up.


    Ange: "Does your boss''s daughter have a boyfriend?"


    Xu Chuanchuan recalled the glib-tongued Jiang Shaohua''s appearance and replied: "She does, but I don''t think their rtionship is good. How do I put it? I think that man isn''t fit for her."


    However, Ange did not care about the virtues of Murong Shi''s boyfriend. Instead, she responded: "Hah... A great beauty like her is straight. What a pity."


    Ange was someone who wished all beautiful women in the world was a lesbian like herself. She cared not about the possibility of humanity going extinct at the slightest. She even dered that "true love only existed between homosexuals." In Xu Chuanchuan''s opinion, she found Ange''s views to be iprehensible.


    However, after reading Ange''sment, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder: "If Murong Shi is a lesbian, what kind of woman would fit her?"


    "For a beautiful and transcendent flower like Murong Shi, only someone with a colder personality and stronger presence could pluck her, right?"


    After reading Xu Chuanchuan''s conjecture, Ange snorted and replied: "This is where you''re wrong. Only the pairing of a top and bottom can result in love. If you match her with someone who has an even stronger presence, wouldn''t they end up in a love-hate rtionship? How will they spend their days in such a rtionship?"


    <em>Love-hate rtionship</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan imagined the scene of Murong Shi being "pushed down" by someone, she found it to be quite interesting. However, she suddenly recalled the words "Have him get lost" Murong Shi had said through the phone, she promptly snapped out of her reverie. If Murong Shi found out that she was having such "dirty" thoughts in her mind, she would be finished!


    Murong Shi, who had been abruptly brought up in someone''s conversation, felt a little feverish. Her ears also felt like they were on fire. When taking her bath, she deliberately lowered the water temperature. However, contrary to her expectations, she felt even more feverish after her bath. Her ears felt so hot that she had the urge to pull them off and throw them away.


    Opening a drawer, Murong Shi grabbed the fever medicine stored inside and popped a pill into her mouth. She then sat on her bed and applied her facial mask.


    Even if she was sick, she was going to be a sick beauty. When Murong Shi applied the ice-cold mask to her face, she felt the heat on her face dissipating. Having nothing better in the meantime, she grabbed her phone and began reading a novel.


    At this point, Murong Shi was already certain Xu Chuanchuan was "I Love Mtang." Xu Chuanchuan also wrote this new book she was currently reading. This book''s style was simr to the previous one, and it mainly described the daily life and romance between the main characters. Surprisingly, Murong Shi did not find this simrity to be boring.


    In any case, she had time to waste, so she could treat this as a way of passing the time.


    [Xiao Ai anxiously closed her eyes as a pair of tender hands cupped her face in the dark. When the other person held up her chin, her eyshes trembled. Unsure where she should put her hands, she moved them around in a panic and seemingly grabbed onto something. Suddenly, someone blew lightly at her right ear. Although she felt ticklish, she dared not move a muscle. The other person then whispered into her ear, "Hold me, I''m going to kiss you."]


    The above content was one part of the scene.


    Next was a description of the two characters'' kissing process, and the processsted roughly 500 words. Whether it was the characters'' actions or psychological fluctuations, both were described in great detail. By the time Murong Shi finished reading this segment, she had found that her body, which had cooled due to the air conditioning, began heating up gradually again.


    The two female leads were very passionate in their love for each other, and they had already removed all their clothes. What should follow next would be the climax.


    Murong Shi grew a little annoyed. Wasn''t this an intentional cliffhanger?


    At the same time, Murong Shi couldn''t help but be a little surprised that Xu Chuanchuan, who was usually well-mannered and didn''t talk a lot, would be capable of writing such a passionate kissing scene. Even Murong Shi, who had found the story''s plot to be naive, couldn''t help but find herself immersed in the story.


    Unsure if it was because of her fever or the passionate scene, Murong Shi suddenly felt irritated. Feeling unreconciled, she checked thement section to see how other readers reacted to this cliffhanger. She then found that most people had reacted simrly to herself andined about the author''s "unscrupulous" actions.


    While browsing, Murong Shi found her eyes drawn toward one particrment.


    Main: If you wish to see the "meat," please visit the author''s Weibo[1]. The author''s Weibo name is the same as her jjwxc name. You''ll find it by searching for the keyword "meat"! The bed scene there is described with great detail! I promise you''ll have a nosebleed after you read it!


    #1: Haha! I''ve read it! It''s wonderful! I''m satisfied~


    #2: Really? Really? Is the author offering such a benefit on Weibo? I''m going!


    #3: I finished reading it. Ah~ I want to get pushed down by Sister Ling~ Sister Ling is so skillful. I want to try all sorts of positions with her~


    #4: What are you guys talking about? I''m still a child.


    #5: #4, even children will grow up one day. Meat is delicious~


    Murong Shi didn''t know what thementers meant by "meat," but she roughly understood what they were talking about after going through the whole section. The author had seemingly published some explicit content on her Weibo ount.


    <em>There''s a continuation?</em>


    Murong Shi had Weibo installed on her phone, and she would browse through it asionally. Before she even realized what she was doing, her fingers had already brought her to the Weibo application and typed the words "I Love Mtang" in the search bar. While Murong Shi thought that her fever must''ve caused her to lose her mind, her eyes caught sight of the first search result. The user''s ID was "I Love Mtang," and written in her introduction was "A jjwxc yuri author."


    <em>It seems this is Xu Chuanchuan''s Weibo.</em>


    With a quick tap, Murong Shi entered I Love Mtang''s profile page. She then typed the word "meat" in the page''s search bar. However, after waiting for a moment, no result came in.


    <em>Nothing?</em>


    Murong Shi''s mind heated up, and she did something she never thought she would do. She sent a private message to "I Love Mtang": "I came here from <em>She''s Sweet''s </em>Chapter 11. I heard there''s meat here. Why can''t I find it?"


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan just so happened to be lying on her bed after taking a bath. While she browsed Weibo out of boredom, she suddenly received a private message from a person named "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings."[2]


    After reading the private message, Xu Chuanchuan immediately understood what the other person was talking about. After all, those 1,000-plus words were already deeply ingrained in her mind.


    Xu Chuanchaun had concluded the novel <em>She''s Sweet</em> roughly half a year ago. Many readers had messaged her on Weibo asking for "meat" during this period, so she had already gotten used to such situations.


    The other party''s ID was that of a blue sea, and their profile stated that they were female. Quickly, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "Sorry, Sina[3] has been strict recently, so I had to delete that post. I can send it to you if you want to read it. Thank goodness I kept the screenshots on my phone. [Shy]"


    Before Murong Shi could respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s reply, she received three images through the chat. Taking a look at the texts captured in the pictures, she found that it was the rumored bed scene.


    Afterward, Murong Shi received another message.


    I Love Mtang: "Remember to delete them once you''ve read them~ Don''t share them with others~"


    There was no way Murong Shi would dare share it with others.


    Subsequently, Murong Shi downloaded the three images. After spending five minutes reading through the texts, she found her body heating up to the point of perspiring.


    With her curiosity sated, Murong Shi suddenly felt a strange feeling in her heart.


    This was the most explicit content she had ever read in her life. The content was superb, and there was no need for her to imagine anything whatsoever. Every step of the process was written in detail. It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say that she had just watched an adult video.


    After reading this explicit text, Murong Shi also understood that one couldn''t judge a book by its cover. She never thought that Xu Chuanchuan would have such a side unknown to others. Based on the bed scene''s detail, it wouldn''t be an exaggeration tobel Xu Chuanchuan as an old driver.


    <em>But is she really an old driver?</em>


    <em>Who knows?</em>


    Now that Murong Shi had just received a favor from Xu Chuanchuan, she decided to return to the novel page and donate a Deep-water Torpedo as a show of gratitude.


    Before sending the Deep-water Torpedo, Murong Shi hesitated for a moment before breaking tradition and added a few words to her donation.


    TL Notes:


    [1]Weibo: Basically Facebook in China.


    [2]There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: The Chinese version of this ID is . The (sh) in the ID trantes to poem in English. It is also the Shi() in Murong Shi().


    [3]Sina: Sina Corp is thepany that owns Weibo.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    Xu Chuanchuan initially felt a little sleepy. However, when she finished reading the three pictures'' content, her body had inadvertently grown excited.


    <em>How shameful. It''s so detailed that it''s practically erotica.</em>


    The two characters in the short text were both characters she constructed. She wasn''t a lesbian, either. Logically, her body shouldn''t have had such a reaction.


    While deluding herself, Xu Chuanchuan covered her head with her nket. However, in less than ten seconds, she tossed the nket aside and took in deep breaths. "It''s so hot."


    Xu Chuanchuan was alone in the house, yet her face still heated up, and her heartbeat elerated. She had no choice but to admit that she was ashamed. Although she had already read that erotic text countless times, she still couldn''t help but admire Ange. Not only did Ange have excellent writing, but she was even so bold in her writing.


    In reality, the erotic text Xu Chuanchaun just sent to her reader didn''t originate from her hands. Instead, it was a birthday present Ange gave her.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan had gullibly thought that Ange had written her a love letter. However, when she opened the document and read its content, she nearly had a nosebleed.


    The 1,000-plus words in the document depicted the bed scene between the two main characters of her book <em>She''s Sweet.</em>


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had received a present from Ange. It was even a birthday present. Yet, it turned out to be erotica. It truly was an unorthodox gift.


    After sending the present, Ange had even proudly proimed: "I dare say that aside from me, you''ll never receive another present as unique as this in this lifetime."


    While wiping the sweat on her forehead, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "Yes, yes, yes. You''re truly kind. This present of yours has truly given me a scare."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan had taken a screenshot of the document and uploaded it to her Weibo, treating it as a bonus for her readers.


    In her original post, Xu Chuanchuan had exined that she wasn''t the erotica''s author. She even tagged @Ange as the author. However, the readers paid no attention to this point. Instead, they began singing praises for the erotica after reading it.


    Unfortunately, someone reported the post for being overly erotic afterward, and Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to delete it. She had even publicly apologized for this matter.


    Xu Chuanchuan exited her photo album as if she had justmitted a crime. Sitting up on her bed, she took several deep breaths. As she waited for her heart to calm down, her phone vibrated.


    She received a new message on QQ.


    Ange: "Did this Passerby be your fan? She sent you a Deep-water in the middle of the night. It seems she''s a potential tycoon. [Image]"


    Erging the image, Xu Chuanchuan saw the word "Passerby" connected with her pen name.


    The Deep-water Torpedo was thergest contribution one could make on jjwxc''s tform. So long as a person sent one, the system would announce it throughout the tform, and everyone online at the time could see it. The image Ange sent was none other than the screenshot of this announcement.


    Passerby says to the author I Love Mtang: "With lovees deep-water torpedoes! The meat was delicious. Author, not bad. I didn''t expect this from you."


    The first sentence was the default text generated by the system, while Passerby wrote the remaining sentences. However, Xu Chuanchuan failed to understand what the other party was trying to say.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Which book is this for?"


    Ange: "<em>She''s Sweet</em>."


    Opening her jjwxc application, Xu Chuanchuan visited the book in question. Sure enough, she found the content of Ange''s screenshot there.


    The meat was delicious? What meat? She had never even written any meat before


    Suddenly thinking of something, Xu Chuanchuan switched to Weibo and earnestly read the private message she received from her reader before. She then quickly typed out a message: "May I know if your jjwxc ID is Passerby?"


    However, Xu Chuanchuan did not receive a reply even after a few minutes had gone by, so she guessed that the other party had already gone offline.


    Xu Chuanchuan carefullypared the time when she received the Weibo private message and the time her book received the Deep-water Torpedo. The more she thought about the matter, the more she felt that "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" was "Passerby."


    Unable toe to a conclusion on her own, Xu Chuanchuan shared her thoughts with Ange. Ange then responded: "It seems this Passerby has quite the heavy taste! Since she likes it, why don''t you try writing more meat to please her in the future? She might toss you another Deep-water if she''s happy. You''ll earn a fortune that way. [Smirk]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you trying to get me to sell meat for a living? [Fear]"


    Ange: "You''re just writing meat. It''s not like you''re selling your actual body."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I don''t want to!"


    Ange: "No need to be shy. You''ll get used to it after doing it once or twice."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No! I won''t do it! Also, I''m not bent!"


    Ange: "I have some resources on myputer. I have both live-action and animations. Why don''t I send you a few for research?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No! Absolutely not!"


    What a joke. She could barely stand reading erotica. She would lose her mind if she tried watching pornography.


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan also knew that Ange was just teasing her.


    After ending her conversation with Ange, Xu Chuanchuan visited the following list of "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" and thought to herself, <em>Since she''s given me so many Deep-waters, she clearly likes my writing. So, why hasn''t she followed my Weibo?</em>


    Could she have guessed wrongly, and the two IDs belonged to twopletely different people?


    Unable to help herself, Xu Chuanchuan switched back to jjwxc''s application and reread the donationment.


    If "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" really was "Passerby," then what was this person trying to express with herment?


    Was this person praising Xu Chuanchuan for her well-written erotica???


    "..."


    But that wasn''t her writing!!!


    Xu Chuanchuan went to work as usual the following day. However, before she managed to even sit down, the Engineering Department''s chief entered the office in a hurry and said, "Everyone, stop what you''re doing for now and head to the conference room with pen and paper. Management is going to give us a lecture on safety knowledge."


    Hearing the chief''s words, Zhou Gong asked, "Safety knowledge? What are they trying to pull?"


    In response, the chief said, "People from the government''s work safety bureau suddenly paid us a visit yesterday afternoon. They found a lot of safety hazards and want us to rectify them. We don''t have all of the appropriate documents and procedures on hand, so we have to make ast-minute effort!"


    ...


    The conference room was full of people. There were so many people that some even had to bring their own chairs into the room. When Xu Chuanchuan looked toward the screen at the other end of the room, she noticed a woman with long, fluttering hair seated on Murong Mingkun''s right. From Xu Chuanchuan''s perspective, she could only catch a side view of the woman''s face.


    Just when Xu Chuanchuan wondered about this woman''s identity, she heard some people whispering beside her.


    "Who''s the woman sitting beside Manager Murong? Is she his new secretary?"


    "What secretary? That''s his niece. Can you not tell?"


    "You''re saying she''s Miss Murong? My god. I''ve always seen her with her hair tied up. Now that she has it down, I really can''t recognize her."


    Overhearing the whispers, Xu Chuanchuan grew even more puzzled. <em>That''s Murong Shi?</em>


    At this time, the long-haired woman slowly turned around and scanned the room with her phoenix eyes, revealing her attractive facial features to everyone in the room. Despite her gaze not carrying any threat, everyone still fell silent when her gazended on them.


    It was Murong Shi.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t get a clear look because of the distance, she felt that something was different with Murong Shi today, and it wasn''t because of Murong Shi''s hairstyle.


    The one giving the PowerPoint lecture for this conference was the Administration Department''s director, Old Chen. Old Chen''s appointment as the speaker had been impromptu, so he didn''te prepared. And although he was just reading off of the manuscript provided, he still made a mistake, causing everyone in the room to burst intoughter.


    Thepany had alwayscked management, so nobody ced much importance on this so-called safety knowledge lecture. Hence, once the room grew noisy, the noise continued ceaselessly.


    At this time, a stern voice entered everyone''s ears, "Do you think this is funny? Whoever thinks Director Chen''s speech is bad cane on stage to take his ce."


    Murong Shi was none other than the person who spoke. Her voice was as cold as her personality. It was neither too loud nor too soft. One also couldn''t sense any joy or anger in her voice. However, because of Murong Shi''s identity, nobody in the room dared continueughing after she spoke.


    Revealing a slightly troubled look, Murong Mingkun cleared his throat and said, "Old Chen, you may continue."


    The lecturested for over two hours, and it was both dull and boring. However, nobody dared interrupt the lecture because of Murong Shi''s previous words.


    When the lecture ended, the top brass left the room, and everyone else in the room breathed out a sigh of relief.


    Someone among the crowd then softlyined, "This is the first time I had such a serious meeting. I nearly suffocated."


    "Shh"


    The top brass hadn''t gone far yet, so nobody in the room dared to agree with this person''sint.


    Many of thepany employees had been working here for a long time now, so they weren''t afraid of Murong Mingkun. They were, however, fearful of Murong Shi, who had only arrived recently. Their reaction was understandable as the former was their boss''s brother-inw, while thetter was the boss''s daughter. The difference in statuses was obvious.


    Before everyone in the conference room had dispersedpletely, the work safety bureau''s inspectors arrived once more. Their arrival caught the severalpany leaders, who had just left the conference room, off guard.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan carried the chair she brought and left the conference room together with the crowd. When she passed by the top brass, she heard a familiar voice speaking in an exhausted tone, "Linda, you deal with them."


    Immediately afterward, Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi turning in her direction.


    The two of them had a face-to-face meeting.


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately froze in ce. She then forced a smile onto her face and indicated for Murong Shi to go ahead of her.


    Murong Shi simply took a nce at Xu Chuanchuan before leaving without a word.


    Linda seemingly still had something to say to Murong Shi. However, when she turned around, she found that Murong Shi had already left. She then caught sight of a familiar face nearby and called out, "You there, Xu... Xu... What was your name again?"


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Me? My name is Xu Chuanchuan."


    "Oh! Little Xu!" Holding onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hands affectionately, Linda said, "Can you do me a favor? Miss Murong still has a fever, and she hasn''t taken her medicine yet. Can you help me bring a cup of hot water to her office? Also, the medicine and granules[1] are on my table. I still can''t leave this ce, so please help me with this! Thank you!"


    Without waiting for an answer, Linda quickly strode away to entertain the safety bureau''s inspectors.


    Xu Chuanchuan looked toward the other end of the corridor and just so happened to see Murong Shi entering her office. Murong Shi''s long hair fluttered gracefully in the air and disappeared into the room in the blink of an eye.


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little dazed.


    <em>Murong Shi is sick?</em>


    <em>No wonder she looked different today.</em>


    TL Notes:


    [1]granules: Granules refer to Chinese medicines that can be taken with boiling water, and are generally made of Chinese herbal medicines. It is a new Chinese medicine type developed on the basis of decoction and syrup.

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t put too much thought into Murong Shi''s condition. After returning her chair to her cubicle, she made her way to Linda''s office and found the medication Linda mentioned.


    <em>Knock, knock, knock</em>


    "Come in."


    Xu Chuanchuan walked with care for fear of spilling the cup of granules as she entered the general manager''s office. Before she could state her purpose of visiting, Murong Shi got ahead of her and asked, "Why is it you?"


    <em>I know, right? Why must it be me? Why is my luck so bad to get singled out on my way back?</em>


    The curtains in the room were unfolded, and they blocked all sunlight from entering the room. Unable to get a clear look at Murong Shi''s face because of the darkness, Xu Chuanchuan forced a smile and said, "Linda told me you hadn''t taken your medication yet, and she asked me to bring you a cup of water."


    Murong Shi ndly responded, "I see. Set it down first, thank you."


    Xu Chuanchuan did as told and set the cup and medicine on Murong Shi''s desk. Noticing that Murong Shi was focused on herputer, Xu Chuanchuan reminded, "It''s best to take your medicine on time. Otherwise, how will you get better quickly?"


    The sound of keystrokes stopped.


    Murong Shi turned her gaze away from theputer and toward Xu Chuanchuan. She then quietly observed thetter without any expression on her face.


    Perhaps because Murong Shi was ill, Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi''s gaze felt much less intrusive than before. Murong Shi''s eyes also appeared a little bloodshot. Maybe it was because shecked sleep?


    Xu Chuanchuan forgot to turn her gaze away momentarily. After taking a close-up look, she discovered that Murong Shi wasn''t wearing makeup today.


    Not only did Murong Shi let her hair down today, but she also wasn''t wearing makeup. This was different from Murong Shi''s usual style. Maybe her illness had deprived her of her motivation to dress up.


    However, because of Murong Shi''sck of makeup, Xu Chuanchuan got the opportunity to see Murong Shi''s true beauty.


    Murong Shi''s parents had given her near-perfect facial features. Even an illness was incapable of depriving her of her beauty. Not only did she not look weak, but she looked even more charming than usual. A woman like Murong Shi would appear dazzling no matter where she went, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but nkly stare at her.


    "Pass me the cup," Murong Shi said, breaking the silence.


    Xu Chuanchuan came to her senses and realized how presumptuous she behaved before. She then lowered her head in a hurry and handed the cup of granules over to Murong Shi. When passing the cup, she identally touched Murong Shi''s hand. Unlike thest time she had skin contact with the other party, Murong Shi''s hand felt slightly hot this time.


    Xu Chuanchuan withdrew her hand quickly.


    The granules had high sucrose content, and Murong Shi frowned after drinking it.


    Going the extra mile, Xu Chuanchuan pushed the bag of medicine to Murong Shi and said, "Here are the medicines."


    Murong Shi grabbed a few pills, popped them into her mouth, and swallowed them.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but gape in shock when she saw Murong Shi taking her medicine as if she was eating milk bites. "Y-You''re taking them dry? Should I pour you another cup of water?"


    Actually, Xu Chuanchuan also wanted to ask, "Were they tasty?" butcked the courage to do so.


    In response to Xu Chuanchuan''s inquiry, Murong Shi shook her head and said, "No need, thank you. You can head back to work now."


    "Oh, okay." Not used to Murong Shi thanking her, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed the empty cup and turned to leave the room.


    "Wait." Murong Shi suddenly called out.


    "Do you have any other orders?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan turned around, she saw Murong Shi leaned back against her chair and subconsciously twirling a pen in her hand. Murong Shi''s current appearance was the epitome of casual.


    If Xu Chuanchuan hadn''t seen Murong Shi taking medicine with her own eyes, she wouldn''t have believed that the person before her was sick.


    One of them was standing while the other was sitting. There was also a desk and aputer in between them. Xu Chuanchuan felt a little ufortable to have Murong Shi staring at her, and she couldn''t help but have the illusion that her boss was currently criticizing her.


    Xu Chuanchuan began to grow nervous. She knew that she wasn''t suited to working in thispany for long.


    Fortunately, Murong Shi was still considerably benevolent. Sitting upright again, Murong Shi asked, "Have you ever been in a rtionship?"


    "What did you say?" Xu Chuanchuan had lost focus for a moment and missed Murong Shi''s words. When she finished her question, she began worrying that Murong Shi would get angry at her.


    However, contrary to Xu Chuanchuan''s expectations, Murong Shi calmly repeated, "I''m asking you if you''ve ever been in a rtionship before."


    Xu Chuanchuan heard Murong Shi''s words loud and clear this time, and she couldn''t help but be shocked.


    <em>Murong Shi is asking me about my love affairs? She...couldn''t have taken the wrong medicine, right?</em>


    Murong Shi definitely wasn''t the type of person to care about her subordinates'' love affairs. She should also dislike talking about nonsense. So, Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi''s question must have a deeper meaning to it.


    <em>But what''s her real goal?</em>


    This was something Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t figure out at the moment. She wasn''t an expert in specting the thoughts of others. She also didn''t dare scheme in front of Murong Shi. Hence, Xu Chuanchuan honestly said, "I have not..."


    Murong Shi did not reveal any expressions on her face. Her alluring eyes only twitched slightly. She then said casually, "Alright. You may take your leave."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan walked away feeling confused.


    On Friday night, Xu Xiangxiang arrived at Xu Chuanchuan''s house. Upon entering the house, the first thing she had to say was, "Sis, your house is so big!"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s family lived in a tube-shaped apartment[1] located in a county seat. The house had three bedrooms and one living room. With five people living under the same roof, the living condition there was cramped. In the past, Xu Chuanchuan used to share a room with Xu Xiangxiang.


    Compared to their family home, the house Xu Chuanchuan currently rented was a self-built house erected by a local. Because of the cheap rent, Xu Chuanchuan rented the entire first floor to herself, so she had a very spacious living room and bedroom all to herself.


    After seeing Xu Chuanchuan''s home, Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t help butment over her future.


    Seeing the look of envy on Xu Xiangxiang''s face, Xu Chuanchuan consoled, "You''ll get to live in such a big house in the future as well."


    The negative emotions in her eyes dissipated, Xu Xiangxiang said weakly, "Yeah, right. I still have three years before I graduate. Even after I graduate, I can''t guarantee I''ll have the money to buy a house."


    Xu Chuanchuan had relied on her writing to earn a fortune, and she nned to use it to buy a spacious home for herself in the future. However, she dared not reveal it to Xu Xiangxiang for fear that her little sister would ask where she got the money.


    <em>I''ll deal with it when the timees.</em>


    With a second person in the house, Xu Chuanchuan dared not write in the open.


    Xu Xiangxiang used Xu Chuanchuan''s desktop PC to y games, the keyboard and mouse generating clicking sounds nonstop. While ying her game, Xu Xiangxiangined, "Sis, your PC is too old. It''s soggy that I can''t even grind mobs."


    "Are you gaming as well?"


    Xu Xiangxiang suddenly sidled up to Xu Chuanchuan, giving her a scare. Xu Chuanchuan then guiltily turned off her phone''s screen.


    Finding her elder sister''s reaction strange, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Did you get into a rtionship? Were you chatting with your boyfriend just now?"


    Fortunately, Xu Xiangxiang didn''t see anything.


    Afterposing herself, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Stop blindly guessing. Your elder sister is the same as you. I''m still single until now."


    Xu Xiangxiang clicked her tongue and said, "Who''s the same as you? You''re six years older than me. You''re old already."


    Sending Xu Xiangxiang a re, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Any more nonsense, and you''re sleeping on the floor tonight."


    "No~ I want to sleep on this big bed~" Xu Xiangxiang said as she threw herself onto the bed and spread out her limbs, upying almost the entire bed.


    Xu Chuanchuan sent a heavy smack on Xu Xiangxiang''s bum and said, "Where am I supposed to sleep if you sleep like that?"


    Xu Xiangxiang turned around with a grin. While rubbing her aching butt, she asked, "Sis, why won''t you start a rtionship?"


    This question put Xu Chuanchuan in a bind.


    Why wouldn''t she?


    When Xu Chuanchuan was still attending university, she had joined her school''s student union. Back then, she had liked a senior in the union who was friendly and good at singing. The senior in question also happened to be interested in her, and he confessed to her on QQ.


    If anyone else were to receive a confession from the person they liked, they would lose sleep out of joy. In reality, Xu Chuanchuan had also suffered from insomnia that night. However, it wasn''t because of happiness, but anxiety instead.


    She couldn''t bring herself to imagine how she should get along with her senior after she agreed to his confession. While she could ept shopping, eating, and doing daily activities together, she inexplicably grew afraid when she thought about how they might have to hold hands, hug, and kiss.


    In the end, she rejected her senior and withdrew from the student union. They then lost connection with each other afterward.


    Failing to think up a convincing answer, Xu Chuanchuan vaguely said, "The timing isn''t right. I don''t want to talk about this."


    Xu Xiangxiang snorted and said, "Timing? Don''t tell me you''re still waiting for Prince Charming to find you? I''ll tell you now that there aren''t many good men left. If you don''t take the initiative to find one, eventually you''llHey, I haven''t finished!"


    Xu Chuanchuan fled into the bathroom.


    Xu Chuanchuan normally bathed quickly, but she was a little absent-minded this time and spent a lot longer in the shower.


    Within one week, two people had asked her about her love affairs. First, it was Murong Shi. Next, it was Xu Xiangxiang. Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan came to realize how much of an urgent matter it was for a 25-year-old to be still inexperienced in love.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t escape to the bathroom because she found Xu Xiangxiang''s nagging to be annoying. She simply found herself at a loss all of a sudden.


    She had always liked men. There was no need to doubt this point, as she had once had a crush on a boy. Her favorite idol was also male. Yet, she never once fantasized about falling in love with any of them for some strange reason.


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan got out of the bath, Xu Xiangxiang had already fallen asleep.


    Xu Chuanchuan walked over and moved her little sister''s spread limbs aside. She then sat on the bedside, grabbed her phone, and sent a message to Ange.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I just found out today that I''m subconsciously rejecting the notion of falling in love with a man. Do you think I have a love phobia?"


    Ange: "Phobia? Have you ever had any unpleasant love experiences?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ve never even been in a rtionship before."


    Ange: "If you''ve never experienced love before, where will your phobiae from?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What kind of situation am I in, then? Could it be a psychological disorder?"


    Although Ange wasn''t a psychologist, she had much more experience dealing with love than Xu Chuanchuan.


    Four years ago, when Xu Chuanchuan had a dilemma with her writing, Ange was the one who guided her onto the path of no return known as yuri novels. Hence, this time, she hoped that Ange could simrly dispel the dark clouds hindering her eyes.


    Ange: "Have you ever thought of the possibility that you might be recessively homosexual?"


    TL Notes:


    [1]tube-shaped apartment:


    The so-called tube-shaped apartment building is a building with a corridor running through the main structure with rooms on both sides of it.


    Image link: https://bit.ly/39fenuP

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    ording to the dictionary, the term "recessive trait" referred to qualities or traits that were not shown on the outside, as opposed to the term "dominant trait."


    Xu Chuanchuan mentally struggled with the message Ange sent her. Only after Xu Xiangxiang had turned in her sleep did she snap out of her thoughts and moved aside.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Is there even a recessive trait for sexual orientation?"


    Ange: "Why not? A great philosopher once said that love between men and women isn''t absolute. Everyone has the hidden possibility of being homosexual. The reason why some people haven''t be bent is that they have yet to meet someone of the same gender who is capable of moving their hearts."


    Finding Ange''s words to be dubious, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What''s this great philosopher''s name?"


    Ange: "Who cares? I can''t remember."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that Ange was merely spouting nonsense, and she couldn''t help but grow frustrated. "But I like men!"


    Ange: "You might be a bisexual, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t spout nonsense without basis."


    Ange: "The most direct way to determine a person''s sexual orientation is to see which gender this person shows sexual urges toward."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I don''t think I have any towards both male and female. Could it be that I have no sexual orientation???"


    Ange: "Nonsense!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m serious."


    Ange: "Bullshit!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Do your readers know you have such a foul mouth?"


    Ange: "Don''t change the topic. Since you can''t tell, I''ll help you to determine it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How?"


    Ange: "Have you watched AVs before?"


    Ange: "Do you think I''m you? No. o()o"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How did you know? [Blush]"


    Ange: "Stop acting cute. All jokes aside, did your body not react at the slightest when reading these two genres of erotica?"


    This She <em>did </em>have a reaction Moreover, it had happened just two days ago after she had finished reading the "meat" for <em>She''s Sweet</em>


    When she recalled these reactions, Xu Chuanchuan''s face turned bright red. Fortunately, the lights were off, and Xu Xiangxiang was fast asleep.


    Xu Chuanchuan breathed out a deep sigh.


    <em>But what can this prove?</em>


    Ange''s words were not the slightest bit reliable. Refusing to y along with Ange, Xu Chuanchuan lied: "Nope! I can''t bear to read any of these things! I''m still pure! [Covers face]"


    Ange: "Save it. Don''t try to trick me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Hnnng! How can you not believe me? [Bites handkerchief]"


    Ange: "[Sweat] Forget it. I''ll send you a few vids. Enjoy them during the weekend."


    Xu Chuanchuan panicked when she saw Ange''s words. Hurriedly, she typed: "I don''t want them! My little sister is here! She''ll think I''m crazy if she finds out I''m watching videos of two women going at it together!"


    Ange: "Look at your courage [contempt]. If you don''t want them, fine, then. I originally wanted to share these good things with you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Thanks, but you should enjoy them on your own."


    Ange: "Alright, then. I''ll go enjoy one right now and rub one out before I go to bed."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Have some restraint. Don''t ruin your body."


    Ange: "I''m kidding! [Rolls eyes] I just finished writing, so I''m going to take a shower before heading to bed. You should sleep early as well. Goodnight~"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Goodnight."


    After chatting with Ange, Xu Chuanchuan became wide awake. When she heard the snoringing from beside her, she couldn''t help but sigh silently.


    <em>Ange likes to entertain me from time to time, so maybe she really was joking before. After all, how could I possibly like women? </em>


    Before going to bed, Xu Chuanchuan decided to read some readerments. However, even after reading through the newments, she still wasn''t sleepy. She then decided to check Weibo for any interesting content. And as soon as she logged in, she heard a "ding-dong" sound.


    It was a new message reminder.


    When Xu Chuanchuan clicked on the prompt, the image of a blue ocean appeared on her phone''s screen.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings had replied to her message, but the message only contained two words: "Try guessing."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Before, Xu Chuanchuan had suspected that thisizen was the reader Passerby, and she couldn''t help herself from asking the other party in a private message. However, she never expected the other party to act mysterious with her.


    I Love Mtang: "I''m guessing that you are. Five minutes after I sent you the meat, I received a Deep-water Torpedo from Passerby. The timing matches perfectly. If you are, thank you very much. You''ve given me so many Deep-waters already. I don''t have anything to repay you with, so I''ll give you a huge kiss. Muah()"


    The other party was probably asleep, as Xu Chuanchuan did not receive a reply to her message.


    The next day.


    Xu Chuanchuan woke up from hunger. When she opened her eyes, she found that the person beside her was still fast asleep with her butt raised to the sky. Finding this scene both funny and infuriating, Xu Chuanchuan shook her little sister and said, "Get up. It''s almost afternoon. How are you sleeping better than I am?"


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang snorted and said, "You''re noisy."


    Xu Chuanchuan smacked her little sister''s bum without hesitation.


    "AhIt hurts!" Xu Xiangxiang sat up, her swollen eyes ring at Xu Chuanchuan in dissatisfaction. "What are you doing?"


    Removing the nket on her body, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Do you want to sleep or eat something good? Choose."


    Xu Xiangxiang salivated when she heard that there was something good to eat. Rubbing her head fawningly against her elder sister''s body, she said, "Where are you taking me to eat?"


    "First, get up, wash up, and get dressed."


    An hourter.


    "The sun is scorching. Why don''t we take a taxi?" Xu Xiangxiangined as soon as she left the apartment.


    Dragging Xu Xiangxiang under her umbre, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s just a ten-minute walk. I''ve really spoiled you rotten."


    "I''m just afraid of getting a tan... I''ll look horrible if I get one. I didn''t bring sunscreen with me, either," Xu Xiangxiang said, giggling as she hugged Xu Chuanchuan''s arm. "Why don''t youe to buy one with meter?"


    Looking at her little sister''s expression, Xu Chuanchuan immediately knew that Xu Xiangxiang was up to no good. Revealing an unamused smile, she asked, "And I''ll be paying for it, right?"


    "Hehe"


    Sending a flick to Xu Xiangxiang''s forehead, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You little money-grubber. I wonder who you got that squandering habit from."


    Instead of refuting her elder sister''s words, Xu Xiangxiang vowed, "I''ll make sure to repay you once I start working."


    Xu Chuanchuan rolled her eyes and said, "Forget it. Focus on your studies first, then talk. Also, stop sticking to me and walk properly."


    Standing upright, Xu Xiangxiang fanned herself with her hand and asked, "How long more do we have to walk?"


    "Almost. The mall is just ahead. There''s a famous shop that sells Hainan coconut chicken. My colleagues and I"


    "Prettydy, prettydy, hold on a second!"


    Someone grabbed Xu Chuanchuan by the hand before she could finish, giving her a scare. When she turned around and saw the perpetrator''s face, she couldn''t help but be surprised.


    The person who grabbed her was a middle-aged woman with a very tanned face. The woman dressed inly and exuded a rustic look. Looking at Xu Chuanchuan, the woman asked, "Prettydy, do you have a phone with you? My wallet and phone got stolen on my way here, and I even lost my way now. Can you lend me your phone to make a call?"


    The middle-aged woman''s voice carried a strong ent, but Xu Chuanchuan could still understand her. After snapping out of her daze, Xu Chuanchuan warily wriggled her arm out of the woman''s grasp and backed away with Xu Xiangxiang.


    Seeing this, the middle-aged woman hurriedly took out two corn cobs from the big bag she carried and said, "I-I-I''m not a bad guy! I came here from the countryside to visit rtives! I''ll give you some corn if you help me!"


    Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang exchanged nces with each other.


    Xu Xiangxiang then tugged at Xu Chuanchuan''s sleeve, telling her elder sister not to be nosy.


    Unwilling to give up, the middle-aged woman continued, "I have peanuts if you don''t want corn! I have many other things as well! I have rice, eggs, yams, and dried sweet potatoes! You can pick whatever you like!"


    Xu Chuanchuan still hadn''t made up her mind. However, the middle-aged woman had already removed the bag she carried and opened it up, revealing the various agricultural products inside. She then said sincerely, "See? I wasn''t lying, right? You can pick whatever you want so long as you help me with a call."


    The middle-aged woman stank of sweat. Xu Xiangxiang found the smell appalling, and she kept urging Xu Chuanchuan to leave.


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated.


    A person''s eyes couldn''t deceive others. When Xu Chuanchuan saw that the middle-aged woman was about to cry from anxiety,passion filled her heart, and she said, "Okay, I''ll help you. Who do you want to call?"


    The middle-aged woman smiled brightly and said, "I want to call a close friend of mine. Hold on; I have her home number."


    The middle-aged woman set down the bags of various sizes she carried on the ground, and Xu Chuanchuan realized that she brought a ck-bone chicken with her.


    Afterward, the middle-aged woman pulled out a crumpled piece of paper from her shirt pocket, the paper having the number of andline phone written on it. After wiping her sweaty hands on her trousers, she beamed an honest smile at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I''ll read it while you dial it."


    "Sure." Xu Chuanchuan took out her phone.


    After Xu Chuanchuan dialed the eight-digit number, the call quickly connected. When she turned on the speaker mode, she heard the other side speaking, "Hello?"


    Hearing this voice, the middle-aged woman eagerly grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist and shouted into the phone, "Mingshu, Mingshu! It''s me!"


    The middle-aged woman spoke in dialect, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t understand a word the woman was saying. She also felt very ufortable from being grabbed by the woman''s sweaty hands. However, seeing how excited the other party was, she couldn''t find it within herself to struggle free, so she had no choice but to endure it.


    After the middle-aged woman spoke a bunch, another woman''s voice came from the other end of the phone.


    The person on the other side simrly spoke in dialect. However, this woman didn''t sound like a country bumpkin at all. Instead, she spoke in a soft and gentle tone. She also dragged the ending of her sentences, her speech sounding as if she was reciting a poem.


    Listening to this woman''s voice, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but think to herself, <em>Her voice is so beautiful. She sounds like a cultureddy.</em>

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    The middle-aged woman only released Xu Chuanchuan''s arm after finishing her call. Smiling apologetically, she said, "I''m sorry. I got a little too excited."


    "It''s okay," Xu Chuanchuan said as she waved her hand to shake off the sweat stuck on it.


    While picking up the farm produce on the ground, the middle-aged woman said, "Thank you. If it weren''t for you, I would''ve had to sleep on the street tonight. These are all things I brought from home. Feel free to take some."


    "No no, you can keep it for yourself."


    "This How can I do that?"


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m on a phone n. Your call just now didn''t cost me anything. Auntie, you wait here for your friend toe. We still have things to do, so we''ll go first. Bye-bye!"


    The middle-aged woman bowed to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Thank you, thank you, thank you so much."


    Finding the situation awkward, Xu Chuanchuan quickly dragged Xu Xiangxiang toward the mall.


    While struggling to keep up with her elder sister''s pace, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Sis, you should avoid such encounters in the future. Why did you even bother helping? Don''t you have any sense of caution at all?"


    "She didn''t look like a bad person."


    Xu Xiangxiang snorted and said, "How gullible are you? Some criminals are even better actors than actual actors. If criminals can be seen through so easily, there wouldn''t be so many unfortunate incidents taking ce in society. Why are you ring at me?"


    cing her free hand on her hip, Xu Chuanchuan said frustratingly, "Why are you such a nag?"


    "I''m worried about you."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked back and saw that the middle-aged woman was no longer standing there. When she recalled the middle-aged woman carrying so many things on her small frame, she couldn''t help but find the scene to be heartbreaking. After all, the middle-aged woman looked like a scavenging vagabond from afar.


    Xu Chuanchuan then muttered softly, "I was just thinking what would happen if mom came across a simr situation. If all passersby behave like you and refuse to help her, what should she do?"


    Xu Xiangxiang grew silent after hearing these words.


    After breakfast, the two sisters strolled around the mall. There were a lot of stores here and a wide range of goods.


    "Sis, look. Doesn''t this bag match my outfit?"


    Inside the fashion store of a certain popr brand, Xu Xiangxiang found herself attracted toward a certain bag. The moment she held the bag in her hands, she couldn''t bring herself to put it down again. After twirling in front of the mirror several times, she called out to Xu Chuanchuan, only to get silence as a response.


    Xu Chuanchuan currently sat on a lounge chair inside the store. She stared outside the store as if in a daze.


    Xu Xiangxiang walked up to her elder sister''s front and asked, "What are you looking at?"


    Pushing her little sister aside, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "I''m looking at a beauty."


    "Where?" Xu Xiangxiang followed Xu Chuanchuan''s line of sight and found a beautiful woman currently trying on shoes in the shoe store across the corridor. There was a man crouching in front of the woman, holding up her exposed ankle. He was the woman''s boyfriend by the looks of it.


    After subconsciously letting out a "wow," Xu Xiangxiang said, "What beautiful legs!"


    Xu Chuanchuan sent a strange nce at her little sister.


    Xu Xiangxiang didn''t notice Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze. However, the allure of a beautiful woman did not surpass that of handbags. She quickly withdrew her gaze and said to Xu Chuanchuan, "Sis, this bag looks wonderful."


    Raising an eyebrow, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You want to buy it?"


    Xu Xiangxiang nodded repeatedly.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan pinched the handbag''sbel and showed the price tag to Xu Xiangxiang. She then said, "This is half of my monthly sry. Don''t even think about getting me to pay."


    "Tsk, I never said I was asking you to pay," Xu Xiangxiang said. However, when she returned the bag to its original spot, she looked as if someone had just cut a piece of flesh off her body.


    Ignoring her little sister''s agonizing look, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Let''s go. I''ll buy you some sunscreen."


    The cosmetic shops were located in another wing. On the way, Xu Xiangxiang continuously shuttled between stores, touching and looking at various products. Even without buying anything, she had endless fun window shopping.


    Compared to Xu Xiangxiang, Xu Chuanchuan looked a little out of form.


    Noticing her elder sister''s abnormality, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "What are you looking at again?"


    A gleam shing across her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "Nothing."


    Xu Xiangxiang looked up at these words. She then spotted two unfamiliar women trying out dresses nearby. Apart from these two beautiful women, she found nothing else of note.


    Xu Chuanchuan nudged her little sister and said, "Let''s go."


    "Oh."


    Xu Chuanchuan let out a deep sigh. She felt as if her mind was a little off today.


    When Xu Xiangxiang was looking at bags before, Xu Chuanchuan took notice of a woman in the shop across the corridor. The woman in question was a standard beauty. She had long and soft hair, a body with all the right curves, and a set of fair and slender legs. Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently found herself taking a closer look at this woman.


    At the time, Xu Chuanchuan had automatically ignored the man crouched beside the beauty. As she observed the woman''s every action, she began recalling the words Ange said to herst night.


    The most direct way to determine a person''s sexual orientation was to see which gender this person showed sexual urges toward.


    However, even after sneaking nces at beautiful women all day, she did not give birth to any sexual thoughts. Even if she was bent, there was no way she would fall for the other party after a few nces.


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart wasn''tpletely void of thoughts when she was conducting her observation. Whenever the woman in the shoe store tried walking in the shoes she tried, her actions would cause her long hair to shield her face from Xu Chuanchuan''s line of sight. At these times, Xu Chuanchuan found herself thinking of a very inappropriate person.


    Xu Chuanchuan actually thought of Murong Shi


    Xu Chuanchuan even madeparisons with the beauty in the shoe store with Murong Shi


    Fortunately, Xu Xiangxiang had saved Xu Chuanchuan in time. Otherwise, Murong Shi''s beauty would''ve bewitched her and led her astray.


    If anyone was to me, it would be Murong Shi for having such a beautiful face and excellent figure. Not to mention, Xu Chuanchuan''s first meeting with Murong Shi was simply unforgettable.


    However, it was in the nature of humans to appreciate and admire beautiful things. Xu Chuanchuan still felt that she was "normal" so far.


    A call woke up Murong Shi. Opening her eyes, she found that Jiang Shaohua had called her, so she rejected the call without a second thought.


    Fortunately, the other party was smart and did not continue disturbing her.


    Unfortunately, sleep wouldn''te to her no matter how hard she tried.


    The thick curtains blocked all sunlight from entering her room. Lacking the motivation to turn on the lights, Murong Shi simplyid on her bed and yed with her phone.


    When she opened Weibo, she heard a "ding-dong" sound, indicating that she had an unread message.


    It was a private message, and the sender was "I Love Mtang," the person who sent her erotica some days ago.


    Murong Shi stared at the emoticon that represented a kiss for a long time before slowly typing a reply.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Do you always randomly kiss people?"


    When reading Xu Chuanchuan''s novels, Murong Shi recalled that the most frequent word she saw in the Author''s Notes was "muah." She got goosebumps whenever she saw this word.


    I Love Mtang: "No? I''m only expressing affection. [Aggrieved]"


    Murong Shi was a little stunned.


    The time between the two messages was less than ten seconds. The other party was actually online.


    Murong Shi didn''t expect for Xu Chuanchuan to reply so quickly. While she was hesitating, the other party sent her another message.


    I Love Mtang: "Do you not visit Weibo frequently? I don''t see you making any posts."


    <em>Doesn''t this mean she already visited my homepage?</em>


    Fortunately, Murong Shi only used Weibo as a form of killing time. She did not follow anyone she knew in real life. She also couldn''t be bothered to post her personal details on her ount. Since Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know her identity, then she had nothing to be afraid of.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Only asionally."


    Following this, Murong Shi heard another "ding-dong." This time, it was the system notifying her that she had gained a new follower. When she tapped on the icon of this new follower, she found that Xu Chuanchuan had followed her.


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi also followed the other party.


    I Love Mtang: "So, are you Passerby?"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Mhm."


    There was no point to keep Xu Chuanchuan guessing. Not to mention, there was no way the ID "Passerby" could form a link to her real identity, so Murong Shi decided to just admit to Xu Chuanchuan''s question.


    I Love Mtang: "Thank you for liking my books. [Shy] Thank you for giving me so many Deep-waters. [Shy]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "No problem. I just happen to have misclicked."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw these words, she stopped walking all of a sudden. Caught off guard, Xu Xiangxiang crashed straight into her back with a "thud."


    "Sis, what are you doing? Why do you keep looking at your phone?" Xu Xiangxiang pouted.


    Sheepishly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Someone''s looking for me. I was replying to a Weibo message."


    Xu Xiangxiang didn''t doubt her elder sister''s words. She then dashed into a nearby jewelry store without another word.


    After Xu Xiangxiang was gone, Xu Chuanchuan returned her gaze to her phone and quickly typed: "Regardless, thank you very much. [Hug] That If you really misclicked, I can refund you half the money. The other half has already been taxed by jjwxc. [Aggrieved]"


    On the other side, Murong Shi suddenly felt like being yful. After reading Xu Chuanchuan''s message, she chuckled and muttered to herself, "How gullible."


    Her mind clearing up, Murong Shi stretched and turned on the lights. Just as she was about to get out of bed, she heard another "ding-dong."


    I Love Mtang: "There''s something I need to confess. I didn''t write the meat you read That''s why, I feel quite guilty for receiving the Deep-water you sentst time"


    Murong Shi''s body paused.


    <em>She didn''t write it?</em>


    Realization dawned upon Murong Shi. It was no wonder why she felt such a strong sense of discrepancy when she read the short erotica. Xu Chuanchuan looked like a muddle-headed person, while the short erotica was explicit beyond description. Even if Xu Chuanchuan was hiding her true personality, there was no way there would be such a huge difference between her facade and real personality.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "So, you n to refund half of my money?"


    I Love Mtang: "It''s possible I can send you a red packet using my author''s ount. Jjwxc will charge a small processing fee and refund the remainder to you."


    <em>Something like that is possible?</em>


    Murong Shi fell silent for some time. She wasn''tcking that bit of money. The only reason she had said so much in the first ce was because she had nothing better to do.


    After thinking over the matter for some time, Murong Shi found this situation to be somewhat interesting. If they met in thepany normally, Xu Chuanchuan would never dare speak to her in such great length, let alone taking the initiative to strike up a conversation and acting cute in front of her.


    Since neither of them could see each other''s faces right now, Murong Shi felt like being yful again.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Troublesome. Forget it. Just write a new one aspensation."


    I Love Mtang: "!!!"

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes multiple times to make sure she wasn''t mistaken. However, no matter how many times she blinked, the fact that the other party had asked her to write "meat" aspensation did not change.


    This wasn''t the first time Xu Chuanchuan had encountered such a situation. Her readers would frequently demand "meat" in her books''ment section or reader group. They would even employ various methods to persuade her, such as view botting, writing absurdly long reviews, and drowning her in moneyin other words sending her Deep-water Torpedoes.


    Had Xu Chuanchuan never been tempted by these baits?


    No, she had been tempted. She was a secr person. She also knew that she would receive a lot of donations if she wrote erotic scenes. However, the problem was that she didn''t know how to write erotica!!!


    She wasn''t trying to act pure or noble. As a straight woman, she didn''t know how two women were supposed to go at it on the bed.


    After pondering for some time, Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth and made her decision.


    I Love Mtang: "I don''t know how to write meat. I swear I''m not lying. [Aggrieved]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Up to you, then."


    What did this statement mean?


    Xu Chuanchuan grew confused at the other party''s reply. She then heard Xu Xiangxiang calling out to her, "Hey, are youing or not?"


    Xu Chuanchuan set aside her doubts temporarily, put aside her phone, and walked over to her little sister.


    Frowning, Xu Xiangxiang visually inspected her elder sister and asked, "What''s with you today?"


    Acting carefree, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "You know I don''t like shopping."


    Fortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, Xu Xiangxiang had a simple mind, so she did not dwell on the matter for long.


    Eventually, the two of them finally made it to the cosmetics department. While choosing her sunscreen, Xu Xiangxiang would asionally ask Xu Chuanchuan for her opinion. In turn, Xu Chuanchuan would make nonmittal responses.


    When Xu Xiangxiang stopped bugging her, Xu Chuanchuan took the opportunity to check her phone. However, she received no more messages from her reader.


    <em>Did I anger her?</em>


    Anger?


    There was no such thing.


    After tossing her phone aside, Murong Shi threw her conversation with Xu Chuanchuan to the back of her mind. She then took a shower, changed into a fresh set of clothes, and headed downstairs to the living room, only to find the ce deserted.


    Murong Mingshu wasn''t home.


    Murong Shi found a bowl of meat porridge in the kitchen, and it was still warm to the touch. There was also a te of fried vegetables in the refrigerator. The vegetables looked fresh and bright, and barely any oil covered them. Murong Shi could tell at a nce that her mother had fried these vegetables. Ever since her mother had started believing in Buddhism, her diet had be as light as a monk''s.


    Murong Shi had slept for a long time, so she was starving now. Ignoring the nd taste, she took out the te of vegetables and paired it with the porridge.


    While eating, Murong Shi called Murong Mingshu. The call quickly connected, and she asked straightforwardly, "Where are you?"


    "You''re awake? Little He and I left to pick up someone. We''ll be home soon."


    "Pick up someone? Who?"


    "You''ll find out in a moment."


    What was with the mystery?


    Murong Shi suddenly grew curious.


    Murong Shi didn''t have to wait long to sate her curiosity. After several minutes of waiting, she heard movementing from outside the front door.


    Murong Shi had almost finished her food by now. After wiping her mouth, she went over to the door, only to be greeted by the sight of an unfamiliar woman.


    The woman looked to be in her fifties. She had tanned skin, withered and yellow hair, and bright eyes. She dressed as if she was a farmer who had juste out of the fields.


    "You are"


    The middle-aged woman beamed a smile at Murong Shi and said, "You''re Little Shi, right? You''ve grown so big already. You''re much more beautiful than when you were a child."


    Murong Shi was surprised. Listening to the middle-aged woman''s words, it would seem the other party knew of her.


    "She''s your Aunt Lian. Don''t you remember her?" Murong Mingshu interjected from the side.


    Murong Shi stared at the middle-aged woman''s face. However, even after thinking about it for a long time, she still couldn''t remember this woman''s identity.


    Murong Mingshu then added, "Little Shi, don''t block the door. Little He needs to move something inside."


    At this reminder, Murong Shi finally noticed the chauffeur standing behind Murong Mingshu. The chauffeur currently held several sacks in his hands and carried severalrge bags on his back. However, the "burdens" on his body greatly contrasted the ck suit he wore.


    Murong Shi opened the door.


    The chauffeur was the first to enter the house, followed by Murong Mingshu and the middle-aged woman.


    The middle-aged woman revealed an awkward expression when she saw the polished floor. After Murong Mingshu said something to her, the middle-aged woman showed an honest smile before leaving her sandals outside the door and walking into the house barefooted.


    Upon entering the house, the middle-aged woman curiously surveyed the bright living room, undisguised surprise and envy in her eyes. She also spoke in a dialect Murong Shi did not understand.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi approached her mother and quietly asked, "Mom, who is she?"


    Smiling, Murong Mingshu said, "Your memory is really poor. She''s Aunt Lian. She''s a close friend I grew up with. She even carried you when you were five years old."


    Hearing this, Murong Shi replied sarcastically, "That was more than twenty years ago. How can I remember such a thing?"


    However, despite her words, Murong Shi had indeed started recalling faint impressions of Aunt Lian after her mother''s reminder. She also remembered telling her the following at one time: "Your Aunt Lian has led a difficult life. Her husband passed on early, and she had to work very hard to get her two children into university. She contracted dozens of acres ofnd to grow crops by herself. She''s a capable woman."


    While Aunt Lian was taking a bath, Murong Mingshu said, "I''ve given Aunt Zhang a sum of money and dismissed her. Aunt Lian will work in our house from now on. She can be my conversation partner when you and your father aren''t home."


    Although Murong Mingshu spoke with a smile on her face, Murong Shi still noticed a bit of heartache in her mother''s expression. After thinking about it, Murong Shi said, "Mom, I"


    However, Murong Mingshu interrupted her daughter and said, "You don''t have to feel guilty about it. I should be the one to apologize to you. You''re a young girl; you should go out more often and mingle with friends. With Aunt Lian apanying me, you don''t have toe home straight away after getting off work in the future. Life is short, so you need to have fun while itsts."


    Chuckling at her mother''s words, Murong Shi said, "Since you know life is short, why don''t I see you having fun as well?"


    Murong Mingshu sighed and said, "I''ll be happy so long as I can see you happy. I''m not interested in the flowery world outside. I''d rather worship Buddha more."


    Murong Shi had inherited her beauty from Murong Mingshu. However, her personality was more like her father''s, Sun An''s. Although Murong Mingshu looked meek on the surface, she was, in fact, stubborn to the bone. Hence, Murong Shi knew she couldn''t persuade her mother.


    After a moment of silence, the mother and daughter pair had their attention attracted by an odd sound.


    Looking toward the kitchen, Murong Shi asked, "What''s that sound?"


    "That''s probably the chicken."


    "Chicken?"


    When Murong Shi followed her mother into the kitchen, she was frightened by the sight she saw.


    A plump, snowy-white chicken with a ck crown had squirmed its way out of the sack that originally bound it, and it was currently fluttering its wings and struggling on the floor. If not for the rope tying its two legs, it would''ve probably made a mess out of the kitchen already.


    Free-range chickens from the countryside were extremely fierce, so neither Murong Shi nor Murong Mingshu dared approach it. After the two of them exchanged awkward looks with each other, Murong Mingshu said, "Let''s wait for your Aunt Lian to handle this."


    Confused by this situation, Murong Shi asked, "Why did she bring a chicken with her?"


    Murong Mingshu smiled and said, "She heard you got sick some time ago, and she knew you liked to drink ck-boned chicken soup[1]. So, she brought one from home to make a tonic for you."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    She wasn''t experiencing a postnatal period, so why would she need ck-boned chicken soup?


    Murong Shi closed the kitchen door and allowed the chicken to continue fluttering inside. She then returned to the living room with her mother.


    Sat on the coffee table was a brand new dumbphone. Pointing at it, Murong Mingshu exined, "Aunt Lian had her purse and phone stolen on the way here. This phone is something we bought on our way back. I wanted to buy a smartphone for her initially, but she says she doesn''t know how to use one."


    Stunned, Murong Shi hurriedly asked, "Did you lodge a police report?"


    "She didn''t lose a lot of money. Her ID card has also long since expired, so we didn''t go to the police," Murong Mingshu said. After a slight pause, she continued, "Fortunately, she came across a kind passerby, and she managed to borrow their phone to give me a call. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have managed to pick her up today."


    Murong Shi didn''t expect there to be such an interlude. After taking a look at the dumbphone, she said, "There aren''t many people who would do such a good deed nowadays."


    "I know, right?"


    After shopping for the entire morning and afternoon, Xu Chuanchuan felt that her legs were close to crippling. When she reached home, the first thing she did was to throw herself onto her bed. She did not have any thoughts of showering or writing her book, trying to move as little as possible.


    Xu Xiangxiang, on the other hand, was in an excellent mood. By acting cute and pampered, she managed to get Xu Chuanchuan to buy her many things. Currently, she was joyfully applying her newly bought nail polish.


    As the pungent smell filled the room, Xu Chuanchuan said breathlessly, "Can''t you apply it after you return to school?"


    Xu Xiangxiang said, "No."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Lacking the energy to argue with her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan pulled out her phone and saw Ange replying to her plea for help.


    Ange: "If you don''t want to offend her, then give her the meat she wants. Don''t tell me you intend on giving her a refund, right? It''s obvious she doesn''tck money. If you refund her, she''ll think you''re looking down on her. If that happens, don''t regret it if she floods you with point reductions."


    Xu Chuanchuan; "Don''t scare me! [Panic]"


    Ange: "Don''t believe me? Do you remember her giving Citrus a point reduction? Remember how she turned to give you a Deep-water after getting bashed by Citrus''s fans? Capricious tycoons like her have unpredictable behaviors. It wouldn''t be strange if she decides to give you point reductions."


    Xu Chuanchuan paid no attention to Ange''s words.


    Several minutester, Xu Xiangxiang finished applying the first coating of her nail polish. She then raised her hands and showed them off.


    Xu Chuanchuan rolled her eyes at her little sister''s actions. She then sat up on her bed, intending to get a shower. Before she left her bed, though, the sound of a "ding-dong" entered her ears.


    Ange: "Dang it! I shot myself in the foot! This tycoon is really capricious! [Image][Image]"


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily confused by Ange''s message. When she saw the two pictures, though, she gaped in shock.


    The two pictures were screenshots of jjwxc''s donation banner, and her author ID and Passerby''s ID upied the top five positions. Passerby had sent her five Deep-water Torpedoes in one fell swoop!


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could ask what was going on, Ange added: "She sent it to <em>She''s Sweet </em>as well. It seems this tycoon really likes this book."


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly opened jjwxc''s application on her phone and visited <em>She''s Sweet</em>''s page. Sure enough, she found Passerby''s donation record in the book''s mainment section[1].


    Thest Deep-water Torpedo Passerby sent also came with ament: "Author, you''re a good person."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "???"


    TL Notes:


    [1]ck-boned chicken: This is referring to Silkie or Chinese silk chicken. All Silkies have ck or bluish skin and bones and grayish-ck meat; their Chinesenguage name is w g j (), meaning ''ck-boned chicken.''


    The Chinese value silkie chicken for its tonic property, especially for those who just recovered from illness, surgery, after having a baby, or just as overall healthy soup for the family.


    Image link: https://bit.ly/3sGRN5O


    The review section, on the other hand, is generally for detailed reviews and ratings.

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a little stunned after being abruptly given the "nice guy card." After taking a screenshot of thement and sending it to Ange, she asked: "What do you think she meant by that?"


    Ange: "Crap! Did you secretly write some meat for her? [Shock] Way to go, Tang''er! [Thumbs up]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I didn''t!"


    Ange: "What did you do for her exactly, then? [Pick nose]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How would I know"


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group was talking about this matter as well.


    Wahhh! Lord, look quickly! Someone gave you a lot of Deep-waters! @I Love Mtang


    It''s Passerby again. How rich. By the way, is this tycoon in the group?


    She shouldn''t be, right? And even if she is, we wouldn''t know.


    Normally, Xu Chuanchuan would immediately make a response after being tagged in the group chat. However, she didn''t do so right now as her brain was still in a mess. She was still thinking about the words Passerby left for her.


    <em>Why would she give me so many Deep-water Torpedoes?</em>


    <em>It seems this person isn''t just capricious. She also has abnormal preferences</em>


    Harassing Ange, Xu Chuanchuan asked: "I''m a little worried. This person has only registered her ount recently. Do you think someone hacked her ount?"


    Thinking of this possibility, Xu Chuanchuan promptly logged into Weibo, clicked on the familiar blue sea profile picture, and sent the other party a message: "Girl, did your ount get hacked?"


    No response.


    Ange: "I don''t think that''s the case."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How so?"


    Ange: "First of all, why would the hacker donate money to you? If you go through the hassle of hacking someone''s ount and find a lot of money in that ount, wouldn''t the logical action be to spend that money on buying books you like or donating to authors you love? Unless the hacker is one of your readers. However, do you think those softies in your group have that kind of capability?"


    Xu Chuanchuan snuck a nce at her lively reader group and fell silent.


    In the end, Passerby''s ount getting hacked was only a conjecture. They would still need to wait for Passerby to rify the situation to know what had happened exactly.


    When Xu Chuanchuan was in a daze, Ange sent her another message: "There''s another possibility. She might be cursing you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Wat???"


    Ange: "Think about it. Five Deep-waters equal 500 yuan. After jjwxc takes its cut, you''ll be left with 250. This reader is quite shrewd. She''s cursing you using a twisted method, yet you''re still acting silly and happy over it."[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched as she replied: "To hell with you."


    Ange: "o(*)"


    After still seeing no reply on Weibo, Xu Chuanchuan decided to take a bath first.


    In the meantime, Murong Shi was soaking inside her bathtub. The facial mask covering her face outlined her exquisite facial features. Water vapor had moistened her long eyshes, her eyes were shut, her brain was void of thoughts, and her body was thoroughly rxed.


    Murong Shi ended up soaking for one whole hour. When she exited the bath wrapped in a towel, hot air radiated from her body. Though, the air conditioning cooled down her body to normal temperatures.


    Murong Shi was 173 centimeters tall, and her bone structure wasn''t as petite and slender as other girls. Of course, she wasn''t robust, either. Instead, Murong Shi was a natural-born model. Not only was she thin, but her body fat had coincidentally centered around her chest and hips.


    A drop of water slowly slid down Murong Shi''s elegantly curved neck, passed her corbone, and finally sank into her neckline without her notice.


    When her feet made contact with the thick wooly carpet of her room, Murong Shi heard a knocking from the door.


    "Little Shi, are you still awake?"


    Holding the towel wrapped around her body with a tight grip, Murong Shi approached the door and opened it. "Mom, why aren''t you asleep yet?"


    Murong Mingshu currently wore a in set of satin pajamas, and she allowed her hair to spread loosely. Frowning, she said, "I wanted to sleep originally."


    "What happened?"


    "Do you remember Aunt Lianing across a kind person today? Since we have her contact information, I''m thinking of inviting her out for a meal."


    Typically, People who believed in Buddhism spoke of karma and repaying kindness. Murong Mingshu had also always been thorough in these matters.


    Murong Shi wasn''t at all surprised by her mother''s words. After pondering slightly, she said, "No need, Mom. I''ve already thanked that person on Aunt Lian''s behalf."


    Surprised, Murong Mingshu asked, "You did? When? How did you thank her?"


    Getting straight to the point, Murong Shi answered, "I gave her something."


    "What did you give her?"


    After hesitating for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Money."


    Murong Mingshu gaped. She then chided, "This person helped your Aunt Lian, yet you just dismissed her with money. This This is too"


    Murong Shi bent her knees slightly and leaned her back against a wall. She then smiled and said, "Too vulgar? Wouldn''t you also have to spend money by treating her to dinner?"


    Hearing her daughter''s words, Murong Mingshu hurriedly said, "That''s different! I wanted to treat this person to a meal together with Aunt Lian and properly thank her. HahForget it. Since you''ve already thanked her, let''s just...leave it at that."


    Sighing in relief, Murong Shi said, "No more concerns, right? It''ste, so quickly head to bed. Buddha said that staying upte is bad for your body."


    Murong Mingshu didn''t feel annoyed by her daughter''s urging. Instead, she said, "You should sleep soon, too."


    "I know. Goodnight."


    "Goodnight."


    After shutting the door, Murong Shi acted as if she never heard her mother''s advice. Tossing aside the wet towel wrapped around her body, she walked into the nearby closet and changed into a set of pajamas. She thenid down on the bed and grabbed her phone.


    For some psychological reason, she subconsciously logged into her Weibo ount. To her surprise, she had unread messages.


    I Love Mtang: "Girl, did your ount get hacked?"


    Girl? Murong Shi raised an eyebrow, finding Xu Chuanchuan''s message baffling.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "My ount?"


    I Love Mtang: "You''re still awake? Well, here''s the thing. I saw you giving me five Deep-water Torpedoes today. You also left ament I couldn''t understand. So, I suspected that someone might have hacked into your ount."


    Subsequently, Xu Chuanchuan sent two images through the chat. They were the screenshots of the five Deep-water Torpedoes "Passerby" had sent.


    Murong Shi instantly knew what Xu Chuanchuan was talking about, and she fell into deep thought for a moment.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Nobody hacked my ount. I sent them to you."


    <em>Like? So-so, I guess.</em>


    Rather than liking Xu Chuanchuan''s book, Murong Shi had instead started using Xu Chuanchuan''s novels as a sleeping aid.


    <em>Will it be too much of a shock if I tell her this, though?</em>


    When Murong Shi thought about how Xu Chuanchuan had helped Aunt Lian today, her heart softened.


    <em>Forget it. Let''s not tell her the truth.</em>


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "It''s okay."


    <em>It''s okay???</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt aplicated feeling when she read this reply, though it onlysted for an instant.


    <em>If she doesn''t like my book, why would she donate so many Deep-waters? Does she have nowhere else to spend her money?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t believe the other party''s rhetoric. Afterbeling this "Passerby" with the description of "capricious" and "rich," she added a new descriptiontsun.


    A tsundere.[2]


    I Love Mtang: "Why did you praise me as a good person, then?"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Take a guess."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    <em>Sure enough, she''s a tsundere.</em>


    Murong Shi didn''t like ying with such childish tricks. She deliberately dodged Xu Chuanchuan''s question because she knew she would expose herself once she answered it.


    As for how she knew it was Xu Chuanchuan who had helped Aunt Lian, this was something that had happened four hours ago.


    Four hours ago


    After Aunt Lian took her bath, she pointed at thendline phone in the living room and asked Murong Mingshu, "Can you check the call records? I want to call that beautifuldy to thank her and tell her that I''ve arrived safely."


    Aunt Lian had spoken to Murong Mingshu using a dialect, so Murong Shi didn''t understand a word she said. After Murong Mingshu tranted Aunt Lian''s request, Murong Shi pulled up thendline phone''s call history.


    Afterward, Aunt Lian used her brand new dumbphone to call the other party''s number. The dumbphone''s volume was set to absurdly high levels, and even those standing nearby the phone could hear the conversation between Aunt Lian and her benefactor.


    When Aunt Lian''s benefactor spoke, Murong Shi found the other party extremely familiar. She even heard Aunt Lian calling the other party "Miss Xu" in standard Mandarin.


    Not only did Aunt Lian''s benefactor sound like Xu Chuanchuan, but they even shared the same surname. Could such coincidences exist in this world?


    Unsure if it was truly just a coincidence, Murong Shi forwarded the phone number of Aunt Lian''s benefactor to Linda. Linda then quickly replied: "This is Xu Chuanchuan''s phone number. Do you have business with her?"


    Murong Shi: "No. I was just asking."


    Meanwhile, from what Murong Shi could hear from the conversation between Aunt Lian and Xu Chuanchuan, thetter adamantly refused everything Aunt Lian tried to offer her. Aunt Lian felt both vexed and touched by Xu Chuanchuan''s refusal. After ending the call, Aunt Lian even ruefully eximed, "This Miss Xu is a wonderful person!"


    Afterward, to express her gratitude toward a certain someone''s "undifferentiated kindness," Murong Shi logged into her jjwxc application and donated five Deep-water Torpedoes in one fell swoop


    Returning to the present, Murong Shi withdrew from her thoughts and stared at her phone.


    I Love Mtang: "I give up on guessing. I''ll assume that you like my book a lot [Shy]. I''m off to writing now. Goodnight in advance~ [Moon]"


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought to type a "muah," but upon recalling that the other party seemingly disliked her such close interactions. Hence, she opted for a goodnight instead.


    Murong Shi stared at thest sentence in a daze. Apart from her parents, she had never exchanged goodnights with even her closest of friends. This was the first time she had received such a farewell, so she wasn''t used to it.


    Only after pondering for a long time did she slowly type out a reply.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Goodnight."


    TL Notes:


    [1]250: Two hundred and fifty can be read as  (rbiw) or (rbi wsh) in Chinese.


    [You''ll get 205 if you put it through Google, but that''s incorrect. 205 is read as  (rbi lng w)]


    [2]tsundere: a Japanese term for a character development process that depicts a character with a personality who is initially prized warm/soft, cold, temperamental, hotheaded (and sometimes even hostile) before gradually showing a warmer, friendlier side over time.


    In Chinese, tsundere is written as  [o jio].

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    After saying "goodnight" to someone for the second time today, Murong Shi still did not intend to sleep. Instead, she subconsciously slid her finger around her phone''s screen and inadvertently entered "I Love Mtang"''s Weibo profile page.


    Pinned on top of the page was a post made half a year ago, and written on the post was as followed: "Hai~ Sorry to bother everyone, but because of copyright issues, I will no longer be selling my self-publication as products. I still have over a hundred books stockpiled under my bed, so I''ll give them away to loyal readers as bonuses"


    The post was hundreds of words in length, and Murong Shi didn''t have the patience to read all of it. She also didn''t understand what that "self-publication" meant, though she guessed that it was a physical copy of one of Xu Chuanchuan''s books.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan only had around 20,000 followers on her Weibo ount, the number of shares andments her post received far exceeded this number. It appeared that many people wanted this gift of hers.


    After all, who wouldn''t want free stuff?


    Murong Shi off-handedly liked the post. When she scrolled further down on Xu Chuanchuan''s profile page, she found that most of Xu Chuanchuan''s posts were rted to her writing.


    It''s finally over~ I''ll be back after resting for a few days, kay~


    Updated, read it quickly~


    I started a new book! It''s another sweet romance! Quickly grab your seats and red packets!


    So long as it was rted to her books, Xu Chuanchuan would almost always make a Weibo post about it.


    Apart from her books, Xu Chuanchuan would also asionally make posts about an author named Ange.


    Murong Shi found the name "Ange" somewhat familiar, and she quickly realized it was the author of the first yuri novel she read.


    Not interested.


    Murong Shi scrolled down further. When she came across a photo, she paused.


    It was a mosaicked photo of a person''s side face. The picture came with the following words: "A promise is a promise! The photo you want is here! Take a look! [Shy]"


    The post''sment section was incredibly lively.


    Ahhh! Why mosaic?! Lord, you''re evil!


    Damn! I can tell you''re cute just from your side face! I want to pinch it! Requesting for the original picture.


    Tsk, it''s pointless to censor it. Lord, you''re a submissive as I expected!


    How can a side face do? Lord, do you dare take a front shot?


    The woman in the photo had her face censored using mosaic, and only her messy hair remained uncensored. The woman had widened her eyes and puffed up her cheeks. The image of a pink pig''s head had also been added to the tip of the woman''s nose. Overall, the picture looked quiteical.


    After seeing this photo, Murong Shi no longer had any doubts regarding I Love Mtang''s real identity.


    When Murong Shi read the teasingments otherizens wrote for Xu Chuanchuan, her mouth subconsciously curled upward.


    Suddenly, she came across ament saying: "Lord, I want to see the picture of yourpany''s boss''s daughter. Can you sneak a photo for me? You can censor it first and share it with us."


    Murong Shi''s pupils shrank slightly.


    <em>Boss''s daughter? Are they talking about me?</em>


    Murong Shi continued scrolling down skeptically and came across another unexpected harvest.


    I Love Mtang: "I met the rumored new vice president. Guess who it is? Forget it, you''ll never guess it _(:)_. Do you still remember the time Iined about some woman snatching my coke in a KFC and pouring it on a scumbag? The follow-up story is here! That woman is my boss''s daughter! She''s also mypany''s new vice president! Surprised??? Anyway, I was given a fright! [Crying]"


    Wahh! This is even campier than novels! Lord, now that you''ve seen your boss''s daughter pping someone else, you should be careful not to get screwed by her in the future.


    Screwed? Which kind of screwed? Hehe, I''ve turned evil. [Evilugh]


    Hmph, what a despicable person. She took someone''s coke without checking who it belongs to! Hurry up and expose her photo!


    I''m curious what this boss''s daughter looks like. Is she pretty?


    I Love Mtang: "She''s pretty. Her name sounds nice, her voice sounds melodious, and her body is beautiful. It''s just that Uh, she''s a little grumpy. People in thepany have secretly started calling her "She-Devil"... She''s also very tall, so it''s very stressful to stand beside her. Ah, my sore neck"


    Grumpy? She-Devil?


    Not bad. She would remember all of this.


    Had Murong Shi read this Weibo post earlier, she definitely wouldn''t have sent those five Deep-water Torpedoes!


    Never!


    After calming her breathing, Murong Shi replied to Xu Chuanchuan''sment with her ownment before logging out of Weibo.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Author, you should be careful when you go to work tomorrow after saying bad things behind someone''s back."


    Two minutester, Xu Chuanchuanpleted the transfer.


    As her little sister had yet toe out, Xu Chuanchuan decided to check her phone. She recalled that she had heard two "ding-dongs"ing from her phone while she was busy writing. That was Weibo''s system notification.


    She frequently conversed with "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" recently, so it wouldn''t be strange if the other party visited her profile and liked her posts. However, when she saw thement the other party left her, Xu Chuanchuan''s expression turned ugly.


    Thement was for a post that Xu Chuanchuan made half a month ago. At that time, Murong Shi had called upon Xu Chuanchuan to act as her temporary assistant. After returning home that day, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but vent her frustrations on Weibo.


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered when she read "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings"''s threateningment. For some reason, she found the tone of this person familiar. To be precise, it resembled Murong Shi''s style when she was lecturing people.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan knew her thoughts were absurd. How could Murong Shi possibly read web novels? Much fewer yuri novels. After all, Murong Shi was someone with a boyfriend.


    Regardless, Xu Chuanchuan regretted her actions. Although she didn''t name Murong Shi in her post, it was still immoral to talk behind someone''s back. After giving the matter some thought, she decided to delete her post.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan privately messaged There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Tycoon, don''t scare me. I''m timid [Aggrieved]."


    Unfortunately, Murong Shi didn''t get to see Xu Chuanchuan''s actions in time.


    On Sunday, Murong Shi apanied Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian for a full day of shopping outside. At night, her father, Sun An, returned home. While having dinner, he asked her, "Shaohua''s birthday ising soon, right? What do you two n on doing?"


    Us?


    Murong Shi found her father''s words funny. Though, she still maintained an indifferent expression on the surface and said, "He can do whatever he wants."


    Sun An felt slightly unhappy at her daughter''s reply. "What do you mean, whatever? What is going on with the two"


    "Eat up, eat up. The food won''t taste as good once it''s cooled." Fortunately, Murong Mingshu had interjected and relieved the situation.


    Sun An knew that his wife disliked Jiang Shaohua, so he stopped speaking and resumed eating.


    After dinner, Murong Shi returned to her room and heard her phone ringing. After taking a brief nce at the screen, she reluctantly epted the other party''s video call request.


    "What do you want?"


    Jiang Shaohua smiled yfully in the video and whistled at her. He then said, "You rejected my callst time. Were you doing something bad behind my back?"


    Annoyed, Murong Shi said, "Get to the point."


    Faking a sigh, Jiang Shaohua said, "It''s nothing important. I''m just afraid my dad will conduct a surprise check on me, so I decided to call you tomunicate our affection."


    "Is there any affection between us?"


    "How can there be none? Strictly speaking, we''re childhood friends," Jiang Shaohua said. Fiddling around with the hair on his forehead, he grinned and continued, "In the future, we might even be"


    Murong Shi did not wish to continue listening to his nonsense and ended the call on the spot.


    Her actions infuriated Jiang Shaohua, who was in the middle of ttering himself. Immediately, he retaliated with a text message: "With that temper of yours, whoever marries you in the future will be cursed with bad luck for eight generations!"


    Jiang Shaohua''s words naturally angered Murong Shi. However, as she couldn''t be bothered to cuss him out, she simply tossed her phone aside. Though, she ended up feeling horribly suffocated.


    Meanwhile, this irritation finally exploded when she met a certain someone in thepany the next day.


    Xu Chuanchuan was holding a dry towel and an empty cup. She initially thought to grab a cup of water and moisten the towel to wipe the dust on her desk. She never thought that she woulde across Murong Shi as soon as she left her office.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart sank, and she turned around to flee.


    "Xu Chuanchuan" A voice filled with suppressed irritation called out her name.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a chill at the back of her head, and she had a hunch that something terrible was about to happen.


    While mentally cursing her short legs, Xu Chuanchuan turned around, forced a smile onto her face, and greeted, "Good morning...Miss Murong."


    Less than ten meters were separating them. When the cold air released by the air conditioning hit her head and enveloped her body, Xu Chuanchuan jolted and stiffened her body, not daring to make even the slightest of movements.


    Murong Shi currently wore a gruesome expression on her face. Staring straight at Xu Chuanchuan, she coldly said, "Why did you try to run as soon as you saw me? Am I very scary?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t run out of fear. Instead, she felt embarrassed when she recalled the Weibo post fromst night. Putting on a fawning smile, she said, "It''s not like that. I...I just forgot my cup."


    Lifting her chin, Murong Shi asked, "What''s that in your hand, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan looked down at the empty cup in her hand, embarrassment filling her as she realized her blunder.


    Wetting her lips, Xu Chuanchuan added, "I grabbed the wrong one. This one isn''t insted. I have another cup at my desk."


    <em>This is a reasonable excuse. She shouldn''t be able to find any faults, right?</em>


    Murong Shi wore a long look on her face and remained silent.


    Afraid of looking Murong Shi in the eye, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head and said timidly, "I''m going to get some water. Do you need me to bring you a cup?"


    Murong Shi still remained silent.


    Xu Chuanchuan started growing anxious, yet she also dared not leave in this situation.


    After the stalemate continued for several seconds, Murong Shi said, "Go get me a cup of warm water and send it to my office. I have something to ask you."

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    Thest time Xu Chuanchuan had interacted with Murong Shi was when Murong Shi had a fever, and Xu Chuanchuan had delivered water and medicine to her. However, because of a difference in station, the two didn''t have any further interaction afterward. So, Xu Chuanchuan failed to understand how she had offended Murong Shi.


    <em>Did Murong Shi gain omniscience and find out I was badmouthing her on Weibo?</em>


    <em>Unless she found out that I am writing novels and my pen name</em>


    <em>But it should be impossible for either of these things to happen! I''d rather believe she''s on her period than that!</em>


    <em>However, even if she''s emotionally unstable, why did she have to single me out?</em>


    <em>Looking at her stern and scary expression just now, I''ll probably get into big trouble if I handle this poorly.</em>


    <em>But I still have a lot of work to do On what basis must I get water for her?</em>


    <em>On what basis!?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan never stoppedining in her mind throughout the process of getting water from the pantry. However, despite her frustration andints, she dared not go against Murong Shi''s will.


    <em>Hah On the basis that she''s my boss''s daughter, of course. Comparisons truly are odious.</em>


    <em>Forget it. At worst, I''ll get a scolding.</em>


    After pouring some warm water into a sterilized mug, Xu Chuanchuan timidly made her way to the general manager''s office. When she arrived in front of the office, she suddenly began hesitating.


    When Murong Shi mmed the office door shut just now, Xu Chuanchuan had heard the sound all the way from the pantry. What if she entered the office when Murong Shi''s anger had yet to dissipate, and Murong Shi sshed the mug of water onto her face?


    Xu Chuanchuan ended up standing idly in front of the office for half a minute until a male colleague passed by and greeted her, "Little Xu, what are you doing standing here?"


    The door in front of her was made of wood. No matter how dense and thick the wooden door was, there was no way it could iste soundpletely. Realizing that she had just been sabotaged, Xu Chuanchuan gave her colleague a dry smile and said, "It''s nothing"


    She then raised her free hand and knocked on the door.


    <em>Knock, knock, knock</em>


    "Come in."


    Taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan twisted the doorknob and entered the office. She then said, "Miss Murong, your water."


    It was cold and quiet inside the spacious office. Murong Shi sat behind herputer, blue light illuminating her face and giving her an icier look. Her eyshes moved slightly, but she did not speak. Instead, she pointed her chin at her desk.


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously tightened her grip on the mug and slowly approached the desk.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan settled the mug onto the desk, she dared not release her grip over it or push it over to Murong Shi. she was afraid this cup of warm water would end up on her face.


    After looking around nervously, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is Linda not in today?"


    Murong Shi swept her gaze across Xu Chuanchuan briefly before responding indifferently, "No."


    Murong Shi had sent Linda to help Aunt Lian apply for a new ID card. Otherwise, she wouldn''t have ordered Xu Chuanchuan to get water for her.


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked, and she identally met with Murong Shi''s cloudy eyes. After moving her gaze away, she got straight to the point and asked, "What did you want to see me for?"


    In response, Murong Shi beckoned with her hand and said, "Give me the water."


    Xu Chuanchuan tensed up and thought to herself, <em>Is she nning to moisten her throat before scolding me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t want to give the water to Murong Shi. However, she couldn''t just hold onto the mug forever, either.


    Left with no better choice, Xu Chuanchuan slowly pushed the mug across the desk. When Murong Shi''s hand made contact with the mug, she subconsciously took a step back.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan was discreet in her action, Murong Shi still noticed what the other party had done. Immediately, Murong Shi''splexion turned uglier, and she sneered as she asked, "Afraid I''ll ssh you with this?"


    <em>Honestly, yes. After all, you do have a history</em>


    Although Xu Chuanchuan thought as such in her mind, she dared not voice her thoughts. She also couldn''t bring herself tough, so she dryly exined, "It''s, uh, table manners. It''ll be rude of me to stand so close while you''re drinking"


    Murong Shi''s eyes remained calm. After checking the water''s temperature with the tip of her tongue, she took a shallow sip.


    The water was light and tasteless.


    Murong Shi immediately lost interest in the water. She''d rather have a cup of coffee than continue drinking this. Setting the cup down, she looked up and quietly examined the woman standing in front of her.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hair was a bit disheveled and fluffy, with a few strands sticking out. By the looks of it, she must''ve just washed her hairst night. She didn''t have any bags under her eyes, so she probably wasn''t staying upte recently. Her lips had turned white, seemingly being frightened by something.


    Murong Shi noticed Xu Chuanchuan was constantly dodging her gaze. Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks were also slightly puffed up, and those ignorant of her actual facial features would think this was a result of her wisdom teeth growing out. Overall, Murong Shi found Xu Chuanchuan looking somewhat dumb and a little...cute?


    This scene reminded Murong Shi of the side photo she saw posted on a certain someone''s Weibo ount.


    Murong Shi had started growing irritated ever since Sun An had questioned her at dinner yesterday. Afterward, Jiang Shaohua had further exacerbated her annoyance. Meanwhile, the moment she came across Xu Chuanchuan just now was the straw that broke the camel''s back.


    Rage had overtaken her mind.


    To further convince herself that she could order Xu Chuanchuan around without feeling guilty, Murong Shi had used the time when Xu Chuanchuan was fetching her water to log into Weibo and read the post where Xu Chuanchuan hadined about her being "grumpy" and a "She-Devil." However, unexpectedly, she found that Xu Chuanchuan had deleted the post already.


    Apart from that, Xu Chuanchuan also sent her a message on Saturday night.


    I Love Mtang: "Tycoon, don''t scare me. I''m timid [Aggrieved]."


    Murong Shi sneered when she read this message.


    However, after seeing Xu Chuanchuan''s lowered posture, Murong Shi could no longer find it within herself to vent her anger on the other party. While irregrly tapping her finger on her desk, Murong Shi asked, "Are there many people in thepany badmouthing me behind my back?"


    "Uh" Xu Chuanchuan briefly opened her mouth before closing it immediately. Her eyebrows also went up and down, her expression looking somewhat tangled.


    <em>Did she drag me here so early in the morning because of this? But why me? I don''t want to be known as a snitch and bootlicker. I only wish to live in peace </em>


    Unfortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi had taken on a domineering posture that implied that she couldn''t leave until she spoke. Hence, afterposing herself, Xu Chuanchuan lied, "I don''t know."


    The ear-piercing tapping sounds abruptly stopped. Murong Shi stopped tapping her desk. Instead, she began leisurely spinning her pen one round after another, seemingly doing her best to control a certain emotion within her.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s nerves tensed up as she observed Murong Shi''s actions.


    Fortunately, Murong Shi didn''t torture Xu Chuanchuan for too long. mping down on the pen with two fingers, Murong Shi leaned forward, gazed at Xu Chuanchuan, and asked, "Have you ever badmouthed me behind my back, then?"


    <em>Boom</em>


    Murong Shi tossed another bomb at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her scalp numbing at this question. In this situation, she couldn''t help but think back to the warning "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" had given her.


    <em>Dear Tycoon, are you perhaps a prophet?</em>


    If Xu Chuanchuan had known she would face such an interrogation today, she would''ve called in sick even if it meant getting a pay cut.


    However, it was toote for regrets now. All she could do was pray for herself.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not lift her head. Gritting her teeth, she meekly said, ined a little...in private"


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt fortunate that she was never one to join groups. When her colleagues had gathered to gossip, she would always stay as far away from them as possible. Either that or she would pretend to be mute and deaf. At most, she would only vent herints to Ange or her readers since she would be safe so long as she didn''t expose any real information.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not confess about the Weibo posts she made to Murong Shi. She had a strong suspicion that once she did, her end woulde.


    While Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t afraid of getting a pay cut, she couldn''t be certain that Murong Shi wouldn''t fire her.


    However, for the sake of keeping her job, Xu Chuanchuan decided to go out on a limb.


    Before Murong Shi exploded, Xu Chuanchuan lifted her head and said eagerly, "Actually, what I said wasn''t exactly badmouthing. I just think that you''re more of awell, a cold belle"


    A shadow of a smile appeared on Murong Shi''s face.


    However, from Xu Chuanchuan''s perspective, this spurious smile was even worse than if Murong Shi had outright scolded her. Goosebumps covering her body, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head and said, "I-I''m sorry! I was wrong! I won''t ever do it again!"


    Murong Shi began tapping her task once more, though her focus was ced entirely on the face of the person in front of her.


    The term "cold belle" held apletely different meaning from "grumpy" and "She-Devil." The former was a neutral term, while thetter two were derogatory terms. If Murong Shi weren''t afraid of exposing herself, she would''ve continued with the interrogation.


    Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan had quickly acknowledged her mistake and deleted her Weibo post already. Seeing Xu Chuanchuan''s sincerity, Murong Shi decided to let her off the hook.


    "How is your penmanship?"


    The change in topic to penmanship caught Xu Chuanchuan entirely off guard.


    Xu Chuanchuan idly stared at Murong Shi''s expressionless face for a moment. However, she couldn''t tell whether the other party was still angry at her or not. Because of her jittery mood, she ended up forgetting to speak modestly, and she simply nodded and said, "My penmanship is not bad."


    "Heh"


    If not for the short distance between them, Xu Chuanchuan would have wondered if she had hallucinated that mockingugh


    Murong Shi urately threw her pen into the pen barrel. She then leisurely interlocked her fingers and said, "Since you''re confident in your penmanship, you should be good at writing essays."


    Xu Chuanchuan was confused by Murong Shi''s words for a moment. She couldn''t figure out what the other party was trying to do. However, regardless of Murong Shi''s intentions, it didn''t seem like she would be getting fired today.


    After calming her heart, Xu Chuanchuan felt that her previous words sounded too arrogant and might bring unnecessary trouble to herself. So, she added, "Actually, I"


    However, Murong Shi didn''t let Xu Chuanchuan finish as she interrupted, "Since you''re so confident, write something for me."


    "What do you want me to write?"


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "Go back and write an essay. It must have at least a thousand words. Hand it to me by Friday."


    "W-What kind of essay?"


    "One that praises me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    <em>Is this a punishment for talking badmouthing her?</em>


    <em>But isn''t this punishment a little bit too...perverse?</em>

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    Everyone had their own way of interpreting art. This was also the case for writing. An author''s work might appear good in some people''s eyes, but it might also appearcking in some other people''s eyes.


    Xu Chuanchuan had been secretly writing web novels for many years now. While her writing couldn''t be considered top tier, it was still satisfactory. Hence, when evaluating her own writing, Xu Chuanchuan could confidently say that it was "not bad."


    Hence, when Xu Chuanchuan first heard that Murong Shi wanted her to write something, joy filled her heart. However, she never thought Murong Shi would make such an absurd demand the next moment!


    <em>We''re not living in the "Cultural Revolution" era, so why must I write praises?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan deeply regretted her confident remark. Inwardly, she very much wanted to say: "I misspoke just now. My penmanship is not okay at all. I used to get the lowest score in ss for literature."


    Unfortunately, she dared not say such a thing.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi wouldn''t have the patience to listen to her nonsense. Murong Shi might even have her write an additional few thousand words out of spite.


    Hence, Xu Chuanchuan swallowed her grievances, bit down on her lip, and plucked up the courage to ask, "May I know why I must write this?"


    Lightly tapping her finger on her desk, Murong Shi spoke loudly and clearly, "You may not."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan still wanted to ask the following: "Are the others receiving such a punishment as well?"


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan met with Murong Shi''s unwavering eyes, she shrank back in fear.


    She was already having problems saving herself. How could she possibly afford to care about others?


    Although Xu Chuanchuan felt wronged by this situation, when she recalled the Weibo post she deleted two days ago, she thought that she deserved this "punishment."


    Lowering her head, Xu Chuanchuan muttered, "I understand. Then If there is nothing else, can I go now?"


    Murong Shi nodded.


    After receiving Murong Shi''s "pardon," Xu Chuanchuan fled the office with her fists clenched.


    A few minutes ago, Xu Chuanchuan had still worried that she would get fired. Now, she wanted nothing more than to quit her job.


    Xu Chuanchuan seriously suspected that the sip of water Murong Shi drank had gone straight to her head. Otherwise, why would Murong Shi make such a "perverse" decision?


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she would be a big wimp if she resigned over such a minor incident. After returning to the pantry and filling her stomach with water, she burped and muttered to herself, "I''ll write it, then! Do you think I''m afraid of you?"


    She had written several million words for her books throughout the past few years. Writing a thousand-word essay was nothing for her.


    <em>Praise? Isn''t that just bootlicking? Fine! I''ll shower you with fancypliments from all 360 degrees! I''ll lick your boots until they''re sparkly clean!</em>


    Her anger turning into confidence, Xu Chuanchuan returned to her office with her chest puffed up.


    The five-day time limit Murong Shi provided was more than enough. Xu Chuanchuan decided to write the essay as soon as she got off work.


    Unfortunately, reality was a harsh mistress. When Xu Chuanchuan returned home, got onto herputer, and opened a nk document, her fingers froze above her familiar keyboard. She found that she couldn''t type a single word.


    This was an essay meant for Murong Shi''s eyes. Were simple praises enough to appease an emotionally unstable person like her? On the off chance she struck the wrong note


    <em>No, no, I can''t write nonsense.</em>


    Hesitation transformed into anxiety, Xu Chuanchuan set the document aside and tapped on the QQ icon on her screen''s bottom right corner. She then sent a message to Ange.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Angeeee, save me! I''m dying! [Crying][Crying]"


    Ange: "What happened?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Something big happened. [Crying][Crying]"


    Ange: "What happened? Don''t scare me!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "My boss''s daughter told me to write a thousand-word essay praising her. How can she be so perverse! [Crying][Crying]"


    Ange: "What the heck? An essay to praise her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s finger actively danced on her keyboard as she spent several minutes exining the details of today''s incident to Ange.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ve never badmouthed her in the office before. I don''t even have the guts to listen to gossip about her. Why am I so unlucky? Of all people, why did I have to catch her notice?"


    Ange: "This proves that you two are fated for each other."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What did you say?"


    Ange: "Haha, I''m just joking."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m in serious trouble right now, yet you''re still in the mood to joke?! [Dagger][Dagger]"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s threat was quite effective, as Ange promptly changed her tone and replied: "If you ask me, you shouldn''t have told her the truth in the first ce. When she asks if you''ve badmouthed her behind her back, wouldn''t everything be fine if you just deny it? You''ve never revealed any names on your Weibo post, anyway. There''s also no way she would ever see that post. What''s there to be afraid of?"


    Xu Chuanchuan understood Ange''s reasoning, but when she was alone with Murong Shi in the office, the awkward atmosphere and Murong Shi''s cold and sharp gaze triggered her instincts. She had a hunch that should she lie, Murong Shi would see through her.


    Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan had never been good at lying since she was a child. So, she had no choice but to admit her guilt honestly.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What should I do now? Should I really write a bootlicking essay for her?"


    Ange: "Lick her! You''ve already said her personality is unpredictable. Since that''s the case, there''s no point for you to overthink things. If you can''t see through her thoughts, then just do what she says. [Shrug]"


    Xu Chuanchuan realized that if she did as Ange told, all her worries would disappear. After stretching her back, she grabbed her phone and pulled up Murong Shi''s photo she secretly took previously.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t understand Murong Shi''s personality and history, so she couldn''t praise the woman for her nuances. She could only limit herself to "surface work."


    Using her phone as a picture frame, Xu Chuanchuan ced it in front of herputer screen and carefully observed Murong Shi''s facial features. She did not spare even a single strand of hair from her inspection. After three whole minutes of observation, she began typing the first sentence of her essay.


    "Miss Murong, has anyone ever praised you for your beauty? I''m sure there must be. I''m also certain that they are innumerable"


    Xu Chuanchuan finished the essay in less than an hour. Compared to her typical writing speed, she hadpleted the essay astoundingly fast.


    Out of habit, Xu Chuanchuan decided to review her writing. However, when she moved her mouse cursor to the top of the document and read the first sentence, she suddenly had the urge to click the ''X'' button.


    "<em>Pfft</em>"


    <em>Did I really write this? Why do I feel sick in the stomach </em>


    <em>I never knew bootlicking was such a difficult task. Not only must I have thick skin, but my praises also need to be on point. This simply isn''t a job for the average person!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan recognized that she was only a mortal. She deemed that she wasn''t capable of shamelessly sucking up to someone. When she finished reading her thousand-word essay, she knew that it was garbage.


    However, this wasn''t the important point!


    Xu Chuanchuan had praised all that needed to be praised. She had followed Murong Shi''s demand down to the letter. Even if it was a little<em>cough</em>there were no faults to pick at.


    In any case, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t write this essay for herself. Even if it were nauseating, she wouldn''t be the one disgusted by it.


    After Xu Chuanchuan inspected her work twice and verified that there were no mistakes, she saved the document and sent it to her work email. She then turned off herputer and took a shower.


    Before going to bed, Xu Chuanchuan chatted with her reader group. While browsing through Weibo, she suddenly recalled the warning "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" had given her. She then decided to leave the other party a message.


    I Love Mtang: "Girl, do you know how to read fortunes? Let me tell you, I got called to my boss''s daughter''s office for an interrogation today. She even forced me to tell her about how I badmouthed her behind her back. [Aggrieved]"


    Xu Chuanchuan did not expect the other party to reply to her message. However, to her surprise, the other party was online.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Did you get scolded?"


    I Love Mtang: "No, but I experienced something worse than a scolding"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Let me guess; you got punished?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly jolted out of her bed.


    I Love Mtang: "You''re amazing!!! She punished me by telling me to write a thousand-word essay praising her"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "You seem to be vexed."


    I Love Mtang: "I''m still okay I just feel a little upset. "


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "You better hold it in, then, lest she has you writing a 10,000-word essay next time."


    I Love Mtang: "Don''t scare me. [Panic]"


    After searching through a bunch of emojis, Murong Shi selected one and sent her reply.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "You can try it if you don''t believe me. [Pick nose]"


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little baffled as she read thetest reply. For some reason, she felt this reply to be threatening.


    <em>However, there shouldn''t be a reason for her to threaten me</em>


    <em>Forget it. Everyone has their own interpretation of words. It''s just a sentence, so I shouldn''t overthink things. She might be warning me out of kindness.</em>


    I Love Mtang: "Since you''re so good at fortune-telling, can you help me see whether I''ll be lucky tomorrow? [Please]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Are you honestly taking me for a fortune-teller?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not follow up with that message.


    <em>Are tycoon readers nowadays all so arrogant?</em>


    For the next few days, Xu Chuanchuan decided not to leave her office unless absolutely necessary to avoiding across Murong Shi. Fortunately, the heavens had blessed her, and she didn''te across Murong Shi even once throughout the week.


    When Friday arrived, five minutes before working hours ended, Xu Chuanchuan secretly emailed her thousand-word essay to Murong Shi.


    <em>Job well done!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan tidied up her table and waited for the end of the day. At this time, thendline phone on her desk suddenly rang.


    Xu Chuanchuan reached out to the receiver. However, when she saw the caller Id, herplexion changed instantly.


    <em>If I recall correctly, this is the general manager''s internal phone number</em>


    Her worst fears hade true.


    Heavens! How long was she going to be tormented?!

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    The phone was still ringing, the sound resembling a death knell in Xu Chuanchuan''s ears.


    <em>Should I pick it up or not?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not ignore the call.


    Picking up the receiver in trepidation, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Hello?"


    The person on the other end of the call was brief and concise as she said, "Come to my office after work."


    Murong Shi had always been decisive. After conveying her instructions, she hung up the call without waiting for a response.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was in an inexplicable mood.


    Murong Shi must''ve seen the email Xu Chuanchuan sent. She might''ve read the email already.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t understand why Murong Shi would still call for her even after she hadpleted her task. Was Murong Shi dissatisfied with her writing, so she was going to have her rewrite everything?


    <em>I should''ve sent it in a few minutester!</em>


    <em>Ring </em>


    The bell signaling the end of office hours rang. While everyone else merrily made their way to the lobby, Xu Chuanchuan walked in the opposite direction with a long face.


    The Engineering Department''s office was just two rooms away from the general manager''s office. When Xu Chuanchuan arrived before the office with a heavy heart, someone opened the door from the inside.


    Beaming a friendly smile at Xu Chuanchuan, Linda said, "Miss Murong is waiting for you."


    Knowing that she would be facing a storm or a typhoon shortly afterward, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to smile. She entered the room after saying a "thank you" to Linda.


    Linda did not follow Xu Chuanchuan into the room. Instead, she left the room and closed the door on her way out.


    When the door closed, anxiety began building up within Xu Chuanchuan.


    The room was quiet, and Xu Chuanchuan could only hear the sound of a clicking keyboard. As Xu Chuanchuan stared at the person seated behind theputer, she wondered to herself, <em>Could she be reading what I wrote?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted nothing more than to run away right now. Unfortunately, shecked the courage to do so. Hence, she decided to break the silence, "Miss Murong."


    Hearing her name being called, Murong Shi shifted her gaze away from theputer and looked at Xu Chuanchuan implicitly.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped erratically. She then began walking forward under Murong Shi''s prating gaze. When she arrived in front of Murong Shi''s desk, a piece of freshly printed paper suddenly appeared in front of her, the fragrance of ink still radiating from the paper.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan was confused by this situation, she still epted the paper without a moment''s dy. When her eyes inadvertently caught a nce of the printed text, her body froze.


    This was the bootlicking essay she sent to Murong Shi


    <em>But why did she print out this essay?</em>


    The next moment, Murong Shi indifferently answered her confusion. "You wrote it, so you read it aloud."


    "Read it aloud?" Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened.


    <em>Can''t you read it yourself? How can I read such a shameful thing out loud?!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted nothing more than to rip the paper to shreds and gobble everything into her stomach right now. However, it would be useless even if she did so since Murong Shi still had the digital copy in her email.


    <em>What should I do?!</em>


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan was only a small-time employee. She didn''t have the qualifications to negotiate with Murong Shi. So, her only option was to submit


    Xu Chuanchuan had typed out every word and punctuation in this essay. She had also used the simplest of grammar for the essay. However, when looking at the essay now, she found herself failing to recognize the essay.


    She wasn''t blind. She just couldn''t bear the shame of recognizing it as her own work.


    Murong Shi did not rush Xu Chuanchuan. Instead, she adjusted her chair and got into afortable seating posture. Her body radiated a sense offort andziness, and her eyes carried a calm and patient gaze.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew even more muddle-headed when she saw Murong Shi''s posture. <em>What is she trying to do?</em>


    <em>Argh, forget it! The sooner I finish, the sooner I get off work!</em>


    Holding up the A4 paper, Xu Chuanchuan feigned calmness and began reciting, "Miss Murong, has anyone ever"


    "Stop."


    <em>There''s even a pause function?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly choked on her saliva after being abruptly interrupted, her face flushing up fromck of oxygen.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi pointed the pen she held at Xu Chuanchuan and said sternly, "Speak louder. I can''t hear you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Just end me now!</em>


    <em>This is something I wrote. I''ll finish reading it even if I have to read it in tears!</em>


    After persuading herself in the quickest of speeds, Xu Chuanchuan cleared her throat and resumed reciting, "Miss Murong, has anyone ever praised you for your beauty? I''m sure there must be. I''m also certain that they are innumerable


    "I think you look better without makeup. Your beauty is not at all shy, and your facial features are exquisite and perfectly matched


    "Your phoenix eyes are capable of seducing the soul of others. Every person you look at will subconsciously lower their heads because they can''t bear to look at such a beautiful object


    "You have such a good body; it''s a huge shame you didn''t be a model"


    Although there were no further interruptions from Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan felt increasingly embarrassed as she recited her essay, and the tone of her voice rose and fell in intervals. Her face also became redder and redder, and her head sank lower and lower. She wanted nothing more than to bury her head into the ground right now.


    She had pieced the praises from various sources. Afraid that she would give herself up, she dared not show off her writing skills. <em>But this content </em>


    <em>It''s so revolting!</em>


    <em>How can Murong Shi even bear to listen to this?</em>


    However, without receiving Murong Shi''s instruction, Xu Chuanchuan dared not stop reading. In the end, she spent nearly ten minutes stumbling through the thousand-word essay. When she finished reading, her face looked like she had juste out of a steaming bath. Wetting her dry lips, Xu Chuanchuan said weakly, "I''m done."


    There was no reaction from the other party.


    For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan suspected that Murong Shi had fainted from disgust. However, when she snuck a peak, she found that Murong Shi had her head lowered and that she was fiddling with her phone.


    <em>Uh, did she not listen to me at all just now?</em>


    <em>That''s even better!</em>


    <em>Wait, why does that image look so familiar? What''s she doing?</em>


    <em>She''svoice recording?</em>


    Startled by her discovery, Xu Chuanchuan blurted out, "You''re not recording, are you?"


    After naming the file as "Disgusting Beyond Reason," Murong Shi clicked "Save."


    Setting down her phone, Murong Shi indifferently nced at the person in front of her and said, "You may go now."


    <em>She''s letting me go? Just like that? </em>Xu Chuanchuan blinked in surprise.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t a masochist. She was just so surprised that she couldn''t react properly. After taking a long breath, she turned around while avoiding Murong Shi''s face and left the office.


    Fortunately, everyone had gone off work already, so nobody saw her haggard look. Xu Chuanchuan dashed through the corridor with her short legs, trying to flee from this ce as quickly as possible.


    After arriving back home, Xu Chuanchuan threw herself onto the bed without caring that she was covered in sweat. She then pulled out her phone and vented her feelings to Ange: "I''ve had it! She called me to her office and asked me to read the essay to her! I even saw her recording me! What the hell does she want?!"


    Ange: "Your boss''s daughter? Tsk, what a ruthless move."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I want to die. I''m so embarrassed! How can I continue staying in thispany after this?!"


    Ange: "You''re not really going to quit, are you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m thinking about it. I''m afraid she''ll screw with me again in the future. Why do you think she''s so against me? [Aggrieved]"


    Ange: "Maybe she has a crush on you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "....................."


    Ange: "Haha, I''m just joking."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s not funny at all!"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt even more depressed after getting toyed by Ange. When she heard her stomach rumbling, she remembered that she had forgotten to buy dinner in her hurry to return home. She then opened up Meituan''s[1] application and ordered herself a bunch of delicious food tofort her frightened, fragile heart.


    Unlike Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi had lost all her appetite after listening to Xu Chuanchuan''s bootlicking essay.


    On her way back, Murong Shi received a call from her mother asking when she would be home. Murong Mingshu had also told her that Aunt Lian had made sweet and sour pig''s feet and that it was good for maintaining beauty.


    Pinching her forehead, Murong Shi said, "I don''t think I can eat such greasy food tonight."


    Noticing that her daughter''s tone wasn''t quite right, Murong Mingshu hurriedly asked, "What''s wrong? Are you too tired from work?"


    Murong Shi paused for a moment before answering, "It''s not because of work. I just feel a little nauseous."


    "Nausea? Why don''t you have Linda send you to the hospital first?"


    "Mom, take it easy. I''m fine. It''s just"


    How should she exin that she got poisoned by something a certain someone read?


    Murong Shi chuckled briefly when she recalled the incident from before. After pondering for a moment, she said, "It''s nothing. I''ll bring Linda overter, so have Aunt Lian prepare an extra set of chopsticks."


    Linda, who was driving, was stunned when she overheard Murong Shi''s words. "You''re bringing me to your house for dinner?"


    Setting her phone aside, Murong Shi responded with a question, "Are you meeting someone tonight?"


    "No, it just so happens that my boyfriend is working overtime tonight. I was just wondering how I should solve my dinner."


    Murong Shi smiled without saying anything.


    Sneaking a nce at Murong Shi through the rearview mirror, Linda asked, "Can I...ask you a question?"


    Murong Shi was browsing Weibo. Without lifting her head, she said, "Ask away."


    "You seem to be looking for Xu Chuanchuan a lottely. You wouldn''t be recruiting another assistant, right?"


    Looking up, Murong Shi sent Linda a neutral smile and said, "What would I need two assistants for?"


    Linda breathed out a sigh of relief. After steadying her heart, she said, "You asked me about her phone numberst time, and you even called her into your office for a talk this time. I thought Hehehe, it''s good if that''s not the case."


    "Mhm."


    Murong Shi resumed browsing Weibo. When she refreshed the page, she found that a certain someone had made a new post.


    I Love Mtang: "Comrades, I learned a bloody lesson today! As an experienced person, I sincerely advise everyone who is about to start their career to never, ever badmouth their superiors! It doesn''t matter where you are at! Never do it! Otherwise, you''ll face severe consequences!!!"


    Shortly after this post was made, ament appeared under it: "Lord, did you get scolded by your superior?"


    I Love Mtang to XXX: "I didn''t get scolded, but humiliated! She did nothing at all, yet she still made me wish that I had a hole to crawl into. [Crying]"


    After taking a nce at the post, Murong Shi recalled Xu Chuanchuan''s blushing face as she read her essay aloud.


    Her eyebrows raised slightly, Murong Shi lightly tapped her phone and gave the post a like. She then added ament: "It ismendable that you know how to correct your mistakes."


    TL Notes:


    [1]Meituan: a one-stop tform for food, transportation, travel, shopping, and entertainment. Currently, it''s one of the two most popr food delivery applications used in China, with the other one being [Ele.me].

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    Xu Chuanchuan grew even more depressed when she saw thement "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings" had left her.


    Spotting a new message notification at the top of her phone''s screen, Xu Chuanchuan switched to her QQ Messenger.


    Ange: "Is your boss''s daughter a Scorpio? With how narrow-minded and ruthless she is, I''m certain she''s one."


    Xu Chuanchuan had never seen Murong Shi''s personnel file, but she recalled a matter.


    Theirpany had a WeChat group for all employees, and Murong Shi had sent a message when she first entered the group. Xu Chuanchuan had clicked into Murong Shi''s profile out of curiosity, and she found that Murong Shi had included her birth date in her WeChat ID. Back then, she was surprised to find that Murong Shi was only one year older than herself.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t recall the exact numbers, so she decided to sneak another peek at Murong Shi''s WeChat profile. After remembering Murong Shi''s ID''sst four digits, which was "1101," Xu Chuanchuan did an online search and found that Murong Shi was indeed a Scorpio.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That seems to be the case."


    Ange: "Tsk, Citrus is a Scorpio as well. All Scorpios are calcting and vindictive people. You should stay away from her as far as possible in the future."


    Xu Chuanchuan decided never to use the second-floor washroom ever again.


    Ange: "How is your new booking along?"


    Ange: "Want to publish it tonight? You can still make it for next week''s ranking."


    Xu Chuanchuan took a look at the calendar and calcted the time.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Alright, I''ll publish it today."


    Shortly afterward, her food delivery arrived, and she devoured everything without leaving a single scrap. With her belly stuffed, Xu Chuanchuan''s mood brightened, but she also became toozy to move.


    Having nothing better to do, Xu Chuanchuan recalled Ange''s warning and decided to conduct an online search on Scorpios.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t just give up on her job. However, if she continued working at thispany, she was bound to meet with Murong Shi in the future. While Murong Shi might not necessarily mess with her again like she did today, Xu Chuanchuan still felt that she had to make some preparations.


    However, after reading to the point where her eyes were dazzled, Xu Chuanchuan grew hesitant.


    <em>To begin with, are star signs even reliable? Also, what if that string of numbers isn''t Murong Shi''s real birthday? Wouldn''t my research be a waste of time?</em>


    In reality, the string of numbers was indeed Murong Shi''s birthday.


    However, Murong Shi currently wasn''t aware that Xu Chuanchuan had begun researching herself. After she finished dinner, Linda''s boyfriend called, so she saw Linda off to the door.


    Meanwhile, Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian were watching a drama on the living room TV.


    Murong Shi noticed a te of her favorite chilled watermelon and lychee sitting on the table, so she went over to take a few bites. Seeing that her two elders were thoroughly engrossed in the show and paid no attention to her whatsoever, Murong Shi decided to fiddle with her phone.


    While browsing through Weibo, she identally came across a new post a certain someone made.


    I Love Mtang: "Halo! Long time no see! Did you miss me? Hehe, I started a new book! Grab your seats and red packets! Red packets are limited, so firste, first served! Love you all! (3)"


    Murong Shi tapped on the blue link in the post, the link bringing up the familiar jjwxc interface onto her screen.


    Murong Shi frowned when she read the suggestive name, her mind inadvertently recalling a certain indescribable image.


    Unfamiliar with the use of jjwxc''s browser tform, Murong Shi switched to the app version and entered the author I Love Mtang''s profile. She noticed that the profile had weed a new addition, and her eyes quickly attracted by the several green text disyed under the novel''s name.


    "Marriage" "Sweet" "Childbirth"


    She understood all three of these terms, but could someone tell her how two women were supposed to have children?


    Murong Shi clicked the "Read" button.


    [Almost! Almost! Put more strength into it, Little Ye! Fight!]


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Why did Dou Xiaoye refuse to say it? Because the child didn''t have a father at all. The person who impregnated her was a woman Moreover, she couldn''t even remember who the child''s other mother was


    In the Author''s Note, a certain someone exined: "This book is built on a fanciful background, so women can get married to each other. They can also give birth to children. It''s a very clichd story, but I guarantee that it''s sweet! Trust me!"


    Murong Shi frowned when she read the Author''s Note. She then scrolled down to thement section to see everyone''s reaction.


    Finally, a new book! I like marriage! I like childbirth even more! I''m not afraid, even if it''s clichd!


    Weeee! You finally decided to write childbirth, Lord! I''ll support you till the end!


    Little Ye is such a tenacious woman. She secretly gave birth to a child all by herself. How great of her. Is she going to search for her wife with her baby next? I look forward to it~


    I love these "children finding mommy" books!


    To Murong Shi''s surprise, not one reader shared her sentiments. She was greatly shocked by this situation, and the only way she could express herplicated feelings was by terrorizing the author with explosives.


    Murong Shi chose to send a Deep-water Torpedo and clicked the "Comment" button.


    <em>No reaction? Did it jam?</em>


    Murong Shi clicked the "Comment" button several times before she finally got a reaction. However, it wasn''t the reaction she wanted. Instead, it was a prompt notifying her of her insufficient bnce.


    <em>Am I out of money again?</em>


    <em>How boring.</em>


    Murong Shi double-checked thement section and found no traces of herment, verifying that her donation had indeed failed to go through. Murong Shi felt displeased that she was unable to achieve her goal. After entering the recharge page, she screenshotted the payment QR code and sent it to Linda''s WeChat.


    Linda: "Another 1,000? Did you enter an extra zero again?"


    Slightly annoyed, Murong Shi replied: "It''s correct. Recharge it for me."


    Half a minuteter.


    Linda: "It''s done. [Image]"


    Murong Shi: "Thanks. I''ll pay you backter."


    Linda: "How did you use up the 1,000 yuan I topped up for youst month? Did you get tricked? Does it cost so much money to read books? What are you reading? You''ve made me curious now."


    Murong Shi didn''t have much patience to exin, so she only replied to Linda''sst question. "It''s a book about two women capable of giving birth. You won''t be interested in it."


    On the other side, Linda was very confused when she read Murong Shi''s reply. She never thought that her cool and arrogant boss would have such a...unique taste.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuanzed on her bed like a couch potato while repeatedly refreshing her new book''sment section.


    She would always grow incredibly nervous whenever she released a new book. Hence, when nothing but positivements for her new book, she rxed significantly. However, when she was about to climb out of bed to take a shower, something caught her notice.


    "One, two, three, four" Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened in shock.


    A reader going by the name of "Passerby" had given her four Deep-water Torpedoes in one fell swoop!!!


    <em>Could it be her?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan tapped into the other party''s profile, discovering that this person was indeed the capricious tycoon.


    Xu Chuanchuan was ted after getting smashed by four Deep-water Torpedoes. After calming down, she visited Weibo and clicked on the familiar blue ocean profile picture.


    I Love Mtang: "I saw the Deep-waters you gave me. [Image]"


    I Love Mtang: "Thank you very much! I''ll continue working hard! [Smile][Shy][Rose][Hug][Heart]"


    Since the other party did not like kisses, she decided to send several different emojis.


    When Murong Shi saw these two messages aftering out of the bath, she was momentarily confused.


    As a reader, Murong Shi felt a need to express her true thoughts to a certain someone. However, when she was about to type out her thoughts, her eyes narrowed as she noticed the image attached to Xu Chuanchuan''s first message.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Why are there four?"


    I Love Mtang: "Huh?"


    Murong Shi was rendered speechless for some time. She finally understood why the system had notified her of her insufficient bnce.


    I Love Mtang: "Did you have a slip of hand again?"


    Such was the fact, but Murong Shi couldn''t bring herself to admit it.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "It''s nothing. You''re wee."


    Seeing this message, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself, <em>Although this tycoon is a big tsundere, she must like my book a lot since she has given me so many Deep-waters. It should be fine to get closer to her, right?</em>


    I Love Mtang: "Do you not n to change your reader ID? There are a lot of people going by the name of Passerby."


    This was something Murong Shi never thought about. When she first created this reader''s ount, she had only done so to kill time. Now, though


    Murong Shi found that she still had nothing better to do. Otherwise, why would she waste time chatting with Xu Chuanchuan?


    Murong Shi casuallyid on her bed and tapped her fingers on her phone''s virtual keyboard a few times.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "I''ll use this ID from now on, then. [Image]"


    Xu Chuanchuan clicked on the image in excitement. However, upon seeing the ID, her mood changed subtly.


    This capricious tycoon had changed her ID to "Passerby Shi"...


    <em>Of all words she could''ve chosen, why "Shi"?</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw this word, she immediately thought of Murong Shi. When she thought of Murong Shi, she inadvertently remembered the "humiliation" she had suffered during the day. Suddenly, a bad premonition appeared in her mind.


    <em>I got called to Murong Shi''s office the day after Passerby warned me on Weibo. Is this really just a coincidence?</em>


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more ridiculous she felt. She couldn''t help but think of verifying her thoughts.


    I Love Mtang: "Pardon me for asking, but where are you from?"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "South."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    I Love Mtang: "What a coincidence! I''m a southerner as well! I live in S City. What about you?"


    If the other party also lived in S City, she would further ask for the other party''s age and upation.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Why are you asking so many questions? Are you trying to flirt with me?"

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    Xu Chuanchuan would sometimes overthink matters. When she saw the message from "There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings," she knew that she had overreacted.


    Murong Shi was a prideful person. She behaved arrogantly to everyone, wasn''t a tsundere, and would never say things like, "Are you trying to flirt with me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan thought that she must''ve gotten a brain aneurysm to think that Murong Shi was "Passerby Shi."


    Xu Chuanchuan patted her chest in relief. She also felt a little embarrassed about her question.


    I Love Mtang: "That''s not it, don''t misunderstand. I was thinking that if we happen to be living in the same city, we can maybe find some time to meet up."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "You''re willing to meet with your readers?"


    This...was something Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t particrly willing to do. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even dare to tell her parents and little sister about her writing career, so how could she possibly have the courage to meet with random strangers?


    Xu Chuanchuan found that the more she tried to exin herself, the bigger the mess she got herself into.


    I Love Mtang: "I was speaking hypothetically."


    After Xu Chuanchuan waited for some time, the other party still did not reply.


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly found herself unsure of what to say. After racking her mind for some time, an idea came to her mind.


    I Love Mtang: "By the way, do you know that I would host a giveaway for physical books whenever I start a new novel? Do you want one? I can send one to you."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t a charitable person in reality. However, the other party had already gifted her a total of 11 Deep-water Torpedoes. After receiving such a generous donation, she had to give something back to the other party, right?


    In any case, she still had close to a hundred physical books under her bed that she could never sell. They would start molding if she didn''t give them away soon.


    Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan''stest message after connecting her phone to the charger. She had an excellent memory, so when she saw Xu Chuanchuan bringing up physical books, she promptly recalled the post pinned to the top of Xu Chuanchuan''s Weibo profile. She then began pondering over the matter.


    Murong Shi had already grown alert when Xu Chuanchuan had asked about her address. She wasn''t sure if Xu Chuanchuan had noticed something and was currently probing for more information. Murong Shi wasn''t dumb. If she had Xu Chuanchuan mail something to her, she would have to provide Xu Chuanchuan with her real address. That would be equivalent to exposing her identity.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Thank you, but I don''t need it for the time being. You can give it to somebody else. Don''t try to use this opportunity to trick me."


    <em>Trick?</em> Xu Chuanchuan felt wronged.


    Although she had been suspicious in the beginning, the gift she offered afterward was sincere.


    <em>Maybe tycoons all have entric characters. Forget it. Since she doesn''t want it, there''s no reason for me to keep hassling her.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had experienced a lot of emotional ups and downs. Nevertheless, she had published her new book and received a lot of positivements and donations. Xu Chuanchuan was satisfied.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan entered the bathroom and hummed herself a tune while taking a shower. When she was done showering, she came out and continued fiddling with her phone.


    Before going to bed, Xu Chuanchuan checked her social media and saw that Xu Xiangxiang had made a new post: "Time to start working hard tomorrow! Fight! Fight!"


    After liking the post, Xu Chuanchuan exited Weibo, looked for Xu Xiangxiang on QQ, and asked: "Are you going to ss tomorrow?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "No? Why would I have any sses on the weekend?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What are you working hard for, then?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "I''m working part-time for my new phone~~"


    Xu Chuanchuan never thought that she would seed in forcing her little sister to be self-sufficient. Feeling quite pleased with herself, she asked: "What kind of job?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Waiter. I can get 100 per day."


    One hundred per day wasn''t a lot of money, and waitressing was quite a tough job. However, Xu Chuanchuan did not intend to dissuade her little sister from the job. She thought that Xu Xiangxiangcked tempering. The only thing that worried her was Xu Xiangxiang''sck of social experience. What if her little sister got tricked?


    Hence, Xu Chuanchuan asked: "Where did you find the job? Is it reliable?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "One of my seniors introduced me to it. The job''s reliable, so you don''t have to worry."


    An elder sister was like a mother. How could Xu Chuanchuan not be worried? After Xu Chuanchuan flooded Xu Xiangxiang with a bunch of nagging and questions, Xu Xiangxiang responded in annoyance: "You''re more annoying than mom. I don''t want to talk to you anymore. I''m going to sleep."


    Singa Clubhouse.


    Murong Shi received the venue information Jiang Shaohua sent her. However, when she saw the address, she didn''t feel particrly willing to go there.


    Murong Shi knew that the Singa Clubhouse was a well-known local entertainment club. She had followed Sun An to entertain business partners at the establishment previously. The room they upied back then was filled with cigarette smoke, and the business partners in question were a bunch of pigs with fat stuffing both their bellies and brains. They had even boldly cuddled and kissed the waitresses serving them right in front of her face.


    At the time, Sun An also didn''t expect his business partners to act so wantonly. When one of the men pushed a beauty into his arms, his face instantly turned ashen. He then pointed to Murong Shi, who had worn an equally ugly expression, and said to his business partners, "My daughter."


    Because of Sun An''s words, his business partners promptly revealed awkward expressions and had no choice but to chase their beautifulpanions out of the room.


    Even so, Murong Shi still developed an aversion to the Singa Clubhouse. After that incident, she also stopped apanying Sun An to socialize with his business partnerspletely.


    Fortunately, one of her other uncles worked as Sun An''s secretary, so she wasn''t worried that her father would do anything to betray her mother.


    When Murong Shi''s car arrived at the Singa Clubhouse''s entrance, she was still hesitating. So, she sat in the car listening to light music, acting as if the noiseing from her surroundings was unrted to her until her phone started ringing.


    Taking a nce, she unsurprisingly found that Jiang Shaohua was calling her.


    Murong Shi picked up her phone unhurriedly and ced it by her ear. After connecting the call, shezily said, "Hello"


    Jiang Shaohua appeared quite anxious as he urgently said, "Didn''t we agree on eight o''clock?! Why aren''t you here yet?!"


    Murong Shi looked through the car window at the clubhouse''s shiny neon sign across the street, quickly spotting Jiang Shaohua, who was currently dressed like a tart. While speaking on the phone with her, Jiang Shaohua would also frequently tease the waitresses stationed by the entrance.


    Letting out a snort, Murong Shi disconnected the call.


    "Hello? Murong?"


    Murong Shi opened the car door and walked across the street in her high heels. She then pped her palm on a certain someone''s shoulder and said, "Stop looking."


    Jiang Shaohua turned around, and joy immediately appeared on his face. However, he quickly frowned and questioned, "Why are you dressed like that? Didn''t we agree that I''ll wear ck while you wear white? What happened to looking like a couple?"


    Murong Shi couldn''t be bothered to dress up for Jiang Shaohua deliberately. So, her equipment for tonight only included a thinyer of makeup, a purple dress, a golden belt, and a pair of high heels. She also let her hair scatter loosely across her back.


    In contrast, Jiang Shaohua had put a lot of effort into his appearance tonight. He had even put on a little makeup; the eyeliner he wore gave him the look of an evildoer. He also didn''t forget to give seductive looks to the women around him asionally.


    Unfortunately, Murong Shi was immune to his charms. Her red lips opening, she nonchntly said, "Do you take us for Grim Reapers?"[1]


    "Tsk, it''s my birthday. Can''t you say something positive?"


    "Happy birthday. Sorry, but I didn''t prepare a present." Although Murong Shi apologized with her mouth, she felt not the slightest bit of guilt in her heart.


    Jiang Shaohua gritted his teeth for a moment at Murnog Shi''s words. However, he quickly rxed and said, "I expected as much. Forget it; I don''t me you."


    He didn''t have the qualifications to me Murong Shi. After all, he didn''t give Murong Shi any presents on her birthday, either.


    The two of them did not look like a couple at all. They also couldn''t be bothered to act as a couple. However, despite everyone around them knowing that they behaved nothing like a couple, everyone still believed that they would most likely marry each other in the future because of their parents.


    Taking a look at his watch, Jiang Shaohua said, "Everyone''s waiting already. Let''s go in."


    Murong Shi nodded and gestured for Jiang Shaohua to lead the way.


    Jiang Shaohua then attempted to hold her hand.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi swiftly retracted her hand. With a stern gaze, she demanded, "What are you doing?"


    Jiang Shaohua felt slightly aggrieved by Murong Shi''s reaction. With a pleading look, he asked, "Can''t you spare me some dignity? It''s not like I''m going to do anything to you."


    "I''m leaving, then."


    "Ahhh, don''t! Honestly, what''s with that temper of yours? I was just thinking of"


    Murong Shi silenced Jiang Shaohua with a re.


    Sighing, Jiang Shaohua said, "Fine, fine. No holding hands. This way, then."


    Murong Shi entered an elevator, and Jiang Shaohua followed after her.


    There was nobody else inside the elevator. Looking at Murong Shi''s face reflected on the elevator wall, Jiang Shaohua grumbled aint, "We agreed to put on an act since the very beginning, yet you''ve never once cooperated with me. How can we convince anyone like this?"


    Murong Shi indifferently listened to Jiang Shaohua''sints, though a n had surfaced in her heart.


    <em>Ding.</em>


    The elevator door opened, and Murong Shi stepped out of the metalpartment. She then paused her feet and extended her arm to the person beside her.


    Confused by this situation, Jiang Shaohua asked, "What are you doing?"


    Murong Shi lifted her chin slightly and said, "Didn''t you say to put on an act?"


    A look of joy surfaced on Jiang Shaohua''s face when he saw Murong Shi willing to cooperate, and he hurriedly held onto thetter''s arm. As the two began walking shoulder-to-shoulder, Jiang Shaohua suddenly felt that something was amiss.


    Halting his footsteps, Jiang Shaohua looked at his hand tucked into Murong Shi''s arms. He then frowned and said, "That''s not right. You''re the woman while I''m the man. Shouldn''t it be you holding onto my arm?"


    "What''s the difference?"


    Raising his voice, Jiang Shaohua said, "How is there not a difference! You''re wearing such high heels that I have to tiptoe to match your height! If I hold onto your arm as well, won''t I look like a eunuch?!"


    Annoyed, Murong Shi said, "I''m leaving if you spout any more nonsense."


    "Come back,e back! You win!"


    Jiang Shaohua was friends with the son of the Singa Clubhouse''s owner, so he managed to reserve an extrarge room for his birthday celebration. There were currently ten people inside the room, the upants equally split between male and female. However, Murong Shi was not acquainted with any of them.


    The instant Jiang Shaohua opened the door, a loud "bang" came out of the room, and colorful streamers and glitter rained down on Jiang Shaohua and Murong Shi.


    With their arms still linked, Jiang Shaohua introduced Murong Shi, "My girlfriend, Murong."


    "What a beauty! Shaohua, you''re blessed!"


    "Your girlfriend is so tall! I''m curious how you two usually kiss!"


    "Show us a kiss!"


    TL Notes:


    [1]Grim Reapers: This was supposed to trante into "ck and White Impermanence," but I opted for the less lengthy and awkward version.


    The ck and White Ghosts of Impermanence are basically Chinese Grim Reapers. They would appear at the deathbeds of the recently deceased to guide their souls to the realm of the dead. Even today, people around the world worship them and consider them an important part of Chinese religion. Naturally, bringing up these Grim Reapers in front of someone celebrating their birthday is very rude.

 Chapter 24: Pt.3

    Chapter 24: Pt.3


    Murong Shi''s ck Maserati Quattroporte got on the main road.


    Xu Xiangxiang sat in the passenger seat. While curiously observing the car''s interior, she asked, "How much does this car cost?"


    Lightly tapping a finger on the steering wheel, Murong Shi said, "I don''t remember, but it wasn''t expensive."


    It was just around eight hundred thousand.


    With an envious look on her face, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I like this car a lot. Let me tell you something. My sister is weak and gets carsick easily. To ovee this problem and get her driver''s license, she ended up practicing and retaking the test repeatedly for two years. But after getting her license, she realized she didn''t have enough money to buy a car! It''s so funny!"


    Murong Shi also chuckled along with Xu Xiangxiang. She then asked, "Is this why she rides a bicycle to work no matter rain or shine?"


    pping her thigh, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Yes! She rides that tattered bicycle every day and refuses to rece it no matter what! She''s a very stingy person! She''s never treated you to food before, right?"


    Getting Xu Chuanchuan to treat Murong Shi to food? That was a ridiculous thought.


    Murong Shi pretended to be in thought for a moment before answering confidently, "No."


    "Do you want to have supper, then? If she won''t treat you, I''ll treat you."


    "No need. I''m not hungry."


    Hearing Murong Shi''s reply, Xu Xiangxiang mumbled to herself, "But I''m hungry I wonder if sis has eaten yet? Her ce doesn''t have anything good to eat. The only thing good she has are instant noodles."


    "Your sister Does she like mtang a lot?"


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes widened in surprise at Murong Shi''s question. Smiling, she said, "That''s right! How did you know? Does she eat it often in thepany?"


    Murong Shi had no way to answer this question properly. Ambiguously, she said, "I guessed it."


    Xu Chuanchuan wouldn''t have chosen such a straightforward pen name if she didn''t like mtang.


    "Are you close with my sister?" Xu Xiangxiang asked, blinking her eyes. Only after getting onto Murong Shi''s car did she remember to ask this crucial question.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang''s question put Murong Shi into a bind.


    Did Murong Shi have a good rtionship with Xu Chuanchuan? Definitely not.


    A certain someone had once bad-mouthed Murong Shi behind her back, and Murong Shi had punished this person just yesterday. No matter how Murong Shi looked at it, she had a very poor rtionship with Xu Chuanchuan. So, why was she sending Xu Xiangxiang back?


    During the period Murong Shi remained silent, Xu Xiangxiang''s phone rang. After taking a look at the screen, Xu Xiangxiang beamed a smile at Murong Shi and said, "Sorry, but let me take this call."


    Murong Shi nodded.


    Xu Xiangxiang then answered the call and said, "Sis, I''m on my way to your ce. I should be there in another dozen minutes or so. She says she''s your colleague. Her name is"


    Xu Xiangxiang paused slightly. She then looked toward Murong Shi and asked, "I still don''t know your name."


    "Murong."


    Xu Xiangxiang, "She says her name is Murong."


    How many Murongs were there in thepany?


    Xu Xiangxiang''s words dumbfounded Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Xu Xiangxiang had called her previously, Xu Chuanchuan was still in the bath, so she couldn''t get the call. When Xu Chuanchuan came out of the bath, she saw the message her little sister left her on WeChat: "Sis, I''m going to your ce. I met one of your friendly female colleagues on the way, and she offered to drop me off since she''ll be passing by."


    After disconnecting the call, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t bring herself to believe this situation. She then hurriedly changed out of her pajamas.


    After anxiously waiting downstairs for over a dozen minutes, Xu Chuanchuan finally got to see the friendly female colleague Xu Xiangxiang spoke of.


    And the person really was Murong Shi


    "Sis!" Xu Xiangxiang joyfully pounced onto Xu Chuanchuan.


    After catching her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi and hesitantly asked, "Miss Murong...how did you two meet?"


    It was going to be a long story if she exined, so Murong Shi pointed her chin at Xu Xiangxiang and said, "Ask her yourself."


    Xu Xiangxiang lowered her head sheepishly.


    Murong Shi was dressed beautifully today. She wore a purple dress and looked very much like a cold belle, and this made Xu Chuanchuan even more afraid to look her in the eye.


    Not mentally prepared to face Murong Shi for any longer, Xu Chuanchuan dragged Xu Xiangxiang aside, wet her lips, and said, "Thank you for dropping off my little sister."


    "No problem. Do you live here?"


    Putting a forced smile on her face, Xu Chuanchuan answered, "Yes. Do you want toe inside?"


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately regretted her words as soon as she finished speaking. She was very much afraid Murong Shi would agree to her invite. What would she do if that happened?"


    Fortunately, Murong Shi''s answer was: "No need."


    Five yearster.


    Dou Xiaoye''s daughter had grown up, and her pet name was Xiao Guaiguai[1]. Because Dou Xiaoye was never able to find her daughter''s birth "father," she could never get her daughter officially registered. So, Xiao Guaiguai had unfortunately be a "ck child."[2]


    However, despite growing up without a "father," Xiao Guaiguai grew up to be an obedient child loved by everyone around her.


    After getting off work one day, Dou Xiaoye made her way straight to the kindergarten to pick up Xiao Guaiguai. However, it suddenly started raining heavily on the way back, and the mother-daughter pair had to take cover inside a mall.


    "Mommy, look!" Xiao Guaiguai said with her childish and melodious voice.


    Dou Xiaoye held her daughter''s chubby hand and looked toward the LED screen her daughter pointed at. When she saw the person disyed on the screen, the smile on her face gradually froze.


    While sucking on her thumb, Xiao Guaiguai giggled and said, "WahWhat a pretty big sister!"


    Dou Xiaoye didn''t blink even once, and tears gradually seeped out of the corners of her eyes.


    Failing to obtain a response from her mother, Xiao Guaiguai looked up and found her mother crying. Tugging at her mother''s hand, Xiao Guaiguai asked, "Mommy, what''s wrong?"


    Dou Xiaoye snapped out of her daze and quickly wiped away her tears. She then lowered her head and beamed a gentle smile at her daughter, saying, "It''s nothing. Mommy isn''t crying. I just got some dust in my eyes."


    Believing her mother''s words, Xiao Guaiguai smiled and said, "Mommy is also pretty! As pretty as that big sister!"


    Dou Xiaoye couldn''t help herself from looking at the LED screen once more, but a new advertisement had already reced the previous one.


    However, although <em>that</em> person''s figure had already disappeared, her knitted brows and smiles had already been deeply engraved in Dou Xiaoye''s mind.


    While caressing her daughter''s soft hair, Dou Xiaoye thought to herself, <em>Silly child. Big sister? That''s your mother.</em>


    When Murong Shi finished reading a certain someone''stest release, she was given a shock once more. As she had plenty of money in her ount this time, she casually tossed out a Deep-water Torpedo and scrolled down to read other readers''ments.


    Five years?! Lord, you had Little Ye be a single mother for five years?! How cruel of you! And you say this is a sweet romance?!


    Xiao Guaiguai? Can''t you put more effort into the name, Lord?


    On a certain day five yearster, Xiao Guaiguai met with her other mother and sweetly called out, "Hello, Big Sister!"... Both women are Xiao Guaiguai''s mothers. Yet, she''s calling one "Mommy" and the other "Big Sister"... The seniority in the family is all messed up, lololol.


    Is the top of this book a model? I recall the Lord saying in the reader group that the top is based on her boss''s daughter. Is that right?


    <em>Boss''s daughter? Are they talking about me?</em>


    Murong Shi grew ufortable when she read these words, though nobody could me her for being overly sensitive. After all, Xu Chuanchuan had dared to bad-mouth her on Weibo. It wouldn''t be strange if Xu Chuanchuan wrote her into her book.


    <em>If this is true</em>


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes, logged into her Weibo, and sent a certain someone a private message.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Refund."


    It was nearly one past midnight, and Xu Chuanchuan was yawning from sleepiness. When she checked through her readers''ments onest time before going to bed, she saw "Passerby Shi" sending her a Deep-water Torpedo. However, before she could even be happy about it, she received a Weibo message from a certain someone, and her heart thumped heavily upon reading it.


    I Love Mtang: "I saw that you gave me a Deep-water. Did you misclick? How about I send you a big red packet~"


    One misclick was understandable, but multiple misclicks was simply incredible. Did this tycoon have not only a fickle mood but also Parkinson''s?


    <em>Cough</em> Xu Chuanchuan was more willing to believe that this prideful tycoon was toying with her, so she carefully followed up her reply with another sentence.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "It''s okay."


    Murong Shi also realized that she had acted too hastily, and she med her rashness on the lychees she was eating. She had only eaten a few, yet her stomach was already churning.


    To Murong Shi''s surprise, Xu Chuanchuan caved to her demand easily and sent her a red packet the next moment.


    However, Murong Shi rejected it.


    I Love Mtang: "Why did you refuse it"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "First, tell me how two women can have children."


    I Love Mtang: "Uh This is a unique setting. If you ask me how exactly they''re supposed to have children, I don''t know, either. Not to mention, jjwxc''s strict management doesn''t allow for such explicit writing. [Shy]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Oh, give me a refund, then."


    I Love Mtang: "I gave you one, but you rejected it! Girl, if you have something to say, say it. What exactly are you trying to do? [Aggrieved]"


    Murong Shi: Nothing! I just have a stomach ache and a lot of free time!


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Don''t call me ''girl.''"


    I Love Mtang: "Are you perhaps a man???"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Do men read your books?"


    I Love Mtang: "It''s nothing strange. I have a few male readers in my reader group. It''s just that they''re a minority. Of course, I know that you''re female."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "How so?"


    I Love Mtang: "A gut feeling." To be precise, none of the males she knew of behaved so much like a tsundere as this capricious tycoon.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "I''m older than you."


    I Love Mtang: "Should I call you Big Sister, then?"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "......"


    Some things in life simply shouldn''t be said.


    I Love Mtang: "Or Big Sis Shi?"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "......"


    Murong Shi thought about asking Xu Chuanchuan about the reference for the story''s top. However, as she worried that she would expose herself by prying too deeply, she decided to hold back.


    I Love Mtang: "Forget it. I''ll continue calling you Tycoon."


    Because Xu Chuanchuan disliked the word "Shi."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Whatever."


    I Love Mtang: "Since you''re unwilling to ept the red packet, I''ll send you the money through my author''s ount. You can use the money to read other books that way. Thank you for your support. [Heart]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "No need."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw this message, she felt that this was a reasonable response. After all, the other party had sent her multiple Deep-water Torpedoes at times. How could such a wealthy person possibly care about the red packet she offered?


    I Love Mtang: "I won''t refund you, then. I''ll give you a hug of love instead. [Hug][Shy]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "Are you going to dismiss me in such a manner?"


    I Love Mtang: "What do you want, then? You rejected both the physical book and red packet..."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "You still owe me some meat. Did you forget?"


    "<em>Pfft</em>" Xu Chuanchuan sprayed a mouthful of saliva onto her phone''s screen. Xu Xiangxiang, who sat nearby, even got some onto her hand.


    Springing out of the bed, Xu Xiangxiangined, "Sis, what are you doing?!"


    Xu Chuanchuan pulled out a tissue and wiped her mouth. With a blush on her face, she said, "It''s nothing. I just choked."


    Xu Xiangxiang rolled her eyes at her elder sister. Afraid of getting attacked once more, she sat further away from Xu Chuanchuan and continued ying her mobile game.


    Xu Chuanchuan also returned her attention to her phone, her eyes fixated on thest message she received.


    She naturally didn''t forget


    However, she did hope that this tycoon had forgotten about the promise


    Although Xu Chuanchuan liked money, she was a person with principles!


    She refused to write explicit content because of a little money!


    If she did, what would happen if her other readers tempted her in the same manner in the future?


    I Love Mtang: "Oh, look at the time! I still need to wake up early tomorrow to continue writing! You should rest early as well, goodnight~"


    Although this tycoon was generous, she was a truly difficult person to please! Xu Chuanchuan decided that it would be best if she kept her distance from this tycoon.


    TL Notes:


    [1]Xiao Guaiguai: (xio guigui) means good boy/girl. It''s honestly a terrible pet name to give to a child since it rhymes with (xio guigui), which would trante to Little Strange.


    [2]ck child: Heihaizi (Chinese: ; pinyin: hihizi) or "ck child" is a term applied in China. The term denotes children born outside the One-child policy, or generally children who are not registered in the national household registration system.


    I don''t have much knowledge on China''s one-child policy, but I''m guessing you need both parents to be present(or death certificate in the case of an unexpected death of the father) to officially register a child to prevent people from cheating the system.


    Fyi, the one-child policy has since been revised into a two-child policy in 2015.

 Chapter 25: Pt.1

    Chapter 25: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t making up an excuse. She really was sleepy.


    Without caring whether the other party would reply or not, Xu Chuanchuan quickly exited her Weibo and set aside her phone.


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang suddenly screamed, "Ahhh! Save me! I''m dying!"


    Having most of her drowsiness scared away, Xu Chuanchuan looked at the person beside her and berated, "Why the hell are you screaming in the middle of the night?"


    Without shifting her gaze away from her phone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I''m talking about the character in my game. AhIt''s over. I ran out of HP."


    Xu Chuanchuan sent a p at the back of her sister''s head. She then said, "Go to sleep."


    Xu Xiangxiang twisted her body around a little and said, "You sleep first. I''m not sleepy yet."


    "How can I sleep if you don''t? You''ll keep me awake with your noise," Xu Chuanchuan said as she confiscated Xu Xiangxiang''s phone.


    Xu Xiangxiang fumed at her phone getting stolen. However, when she turned around and met her elder sister''s warning gaze, she promptly swallowed herints into her stomach. She then clicked her tongue and said, "Alright, alright, I''ll sleep. Just let me use the toilet first."


    In the meantime, Xu Chuanchuan ced her and her sister''s phones at a ce out of arm''s reach. After she had straightened the ruffled bed sheet and got into bed, Xu Xiangxiang also came out of the bathroom.


    After climbing onto the bed as well, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Turn off the lights."


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated for a moment when she heard the movement beside her. She then turned around and looked at the side of Xu Xiangxiang''s face and asked, "Tell me the truth. How exactly did you meet with Murong?"


    Xu Xiangxiang, who was rubbing her eyes, froze momentarily. Her eyes then wandered around for a moment before she answered, "Didn''t I already tell you? We just happened to meet each other on the street."


    "Do you think I''ll believe that?"


    "Why wouldn''t you believe it?"


    Previously, as soon as Murong Shi had got back into her car, Xu Chuanchuan promptly began grilling Xu Xiangxiang for answers. Hence, Xu Xiangxiang hade up with a rtively logical story on the spot.


    Based on Xu Xiangxiang''s story, she had thought to visit Xu Chuanchuan after work. However, she had very nearly gotten herself hit by a car in her hurry to catch up to a bus. Meanwhile, Murong Shi was the car''s owner.


    Fortunately, Murong Shi had stopped the car in time. When she came out of the car to check up on the person she nearly ran over, she found that Xu Xiangxiang looked very much like Xu Chuanchuan. Upon asking, she then found out that the two were sisters. Out of the kindness of her heart and seeing that Xu Chuanchuan''s house was on the way, Murong Shi then offered to give Xu Xiangxiang a ride.


    Although Xu Xiangxiang''s story sounded very coincidental, it was a rtively reasonable story, so Xu Chuanchuan epted her little sister''s story at face value. She then ordered take-out for Xu Xiangxiang and began secretly writing her book on her phone, not putting any more thought into the matter.


    However, now that Xu Chuanchuan had calmed down and gave the matter some more thought, she realized that there was a big hole in Xu Xiangxiang''s story.


    How could Murong Shi possibly be such a good samaritan?


    Xu Chuanchuan still distinctly remembered the "punishment" Murong Shi gave her on Friday, and only one day had gone by since then.


    Could Murong Shi have had a change in personality during this time? Impossible.


    Xu Chuanchuan might''ve believed Xu Xiangxiang''s story if the other party involved was anyone else, but Murong Shi?


    Xu Xiangxiang was hiding something.


    Putting on a cold smile, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you know who she is?"


    "Is she not your colleague? She says she''s doing misceneous work in thepany just like you."


    "Misce...neous? She said that?"


    Xu Xiangxiang innocently nodded. "Is that not the case?"


    Her lips twitching, Xu Chuanchuan said, "She''s my boss''s daughter."


    "What?!" Xu Xiangxiang eximed, her upper body springing up. "Really? Why would she lie to me, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan frowned. She also didn''t have an answer to this question.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang mumbled to herself, "No wonder I found it strange. If she really is doing misceneous work like you, how can she drive such a nice car? But then again, your boss''s daughter is a nice person."


    "How is she nice?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, looking at Xu Xiangxiang as if she was looking at a ghost.


    Without thinking twice, Xu Xiangxiang answered, "She''s pretty."


    Xu Chuanchuan red at her little sister and said, "I don''t need you to tell me that."


    Putting on a stupid smile, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Not only is she beautiful, but she''s also warm-hearted. She doesn''t put on airs, either. How is she not nice?"


    Xu Chuanchuan seriously suspected that she and her little sister were talking about twopletely different people. After pondering for a moment, she said, "Many of ourpany employees call her ''She-Devil'' in secret. Only you think of her as a nice person."


    "She-Devil?" Xu Xiangxiang immediately had her curiosity piqued. Moving closer to her elder sister, she asked, "Is she cruel in thepany?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have the guts to tell Xu Xiangxiang that Murong Shi had already screwed with her once. After all, she had been in the wrong first. Regardless, Xu Chuanchuan had received a trauma after that lesson and dared not casually speak badly of Murong Shi even in front of her own little sister. It didn''t matter even if she knew that Xu Xiangxiang would never betray her.


    After another long silence, Xu Chuanchuan said ambiguously, "She behaves coldly to everyone around her, so other colleagues don''t dare get close to her in private."


    Shifting her buttocks closer to her elder sister, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Does this mean you have a bad rtionship with her?"


    "Use your brain, will you? She''s my boss''s daughter, while I''m only an assistant in thepany''s Engineering Department. We have nothing to do with each other, so how can there be any friendship between us?"


    Xu Xiangxiang opened and closed her mouth several times. A momentter, she said, "That''s strange. If you''re not close, why would she be concerned about you?"


    "Murong Shi? Concerned about me?" Was this some kind of bad joke?


    "Yeah. She knows your back is aching, and she even asked me about it on the car."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was surprised.


    Patting her elder sister on the shoulder, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Well, whatever. Remember to help me thank her. I''m going to sleep."


    Looking at Xu Xiangxiang''s back, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly recalled that she still hadn''t finished probing her little sister''s matter.


    Meanwhile, because of her guilt and active attempt at evading her elder sister''s topic, Xu Xiangxiang had forgotten to tell her about the matter of Murong Shi mentioning that Xu Chuanchuan liked mtang. It was also fortunate that she didn''t reveal this fact. If she did, Murong Shi wouldn''t be far from getting her identity exposed.


    The next day.


    "Didn''t you say you were working part-time today?"


    Still half-asleep, Xu Xiangxiang listlessly replied, "I blew it."


    "What do you mean?"


    Xu Xiangxiangzily took a sip of milk tea. While crunching down on an ice cube, she said, "I thought about it. Working part-time is so tiring, so I decided not to buy the phone."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan asked Xu Xiangxiang if she wanted to go shopping, but thetter showed no interest and said, "I don''t want to go out under the sun. You don''t have anything fun to y here, either, so I''m thinking of going back to school."


    Ange: "Writing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Just finished."


    After a moment, Ange replied: "Up for another one?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ll pass. I still have ten deliveries to pack."


    Ange: "Did you start a WeChat business?"


    Dumbfounded by Ange''s words, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "What business? I''m talking about the Weibo lottery. I promised to send physical books to my readers."


    Speaking of giving away books, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but recall her spection toward that tycoon reader''s identity. Although she had eventually convinced herself otherwise, she still couldn''t help herself from sharing her conjecture with Ange.


    Ange: "It would be interesting if this tycoon is your boss''s daughter."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s scary, OK? If that is the case, I might decide to kill my pen name."


    Ange: "she doesn''t look evil, so why are you so afraid of her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You won''t understand."


    Truthfully, even Xu Chuanchuan didn''t understand what she was afraid of.


    Was Murong Shi really <em>that</em> scary?


    Not really.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan always felt a sense of oppression bearing down on her whenever she stood in front of Murong Shi. And after that "recital" incident, she now felt an additional sense of shame.


    At around five o''clock, the courier from Yunda Express arrived. Before the courier took the packages away, though, Xu Chuanchuan took a blurry picture of them to share with her readers on Weibo.


    When she logged into her Weibo ount, the sound of a "ding-dong" entered her ears. The system notified her of an unread message.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tensed up when she saw the familiar blue ocean icon.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially nned to avoid this tycoon reader for some time. She never thought that the other party would take the initiative to contact her.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feeling: "What are these Nutrient Solutions and Moonstones for? [Image]"


    Thank goodness it wasn''t a request for her to write meat.


    After calming herself, Xu Chuanchuan tapped on the shared image and found that it was the ount information for "Passerby Shi."


    Nutrient Solutions 80, Moonstones 10, Points 0, Bnce Coins 88888.03


    Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze was drawn toward thest category, her eyes widening in shock when she saw the string of numbers disyed there.


    <em>If she topped up this much money into her ount, it''s no wonder why she feels nothing at spending some of it. What a tycoon</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan then focused back on the tycoon''s question.


    I Love Mtang: "You''ll receive additional Nutrient Solutions if you make a full subscription to a novel, and you can use them to ''fertilize'' novels you like. They''re basically votes for jjwxc''s voting system. Moonstones are generally used to give point reductions to novels. Each point reduction costs two Moonstones."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feeling: "That means I can give five point reductions now."


    I Love Mtang: "Yes."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feeling: "Then I''ll give all of them to you to avoid letting them go to waste."


    Xu Chuanchuan: !!!


    I Love Mtang: "Tycoon! Please control yourself! These point reductions are not a joke! It''ll deduct points from my book! [Kowtow][Kowtow][Kowtow]"


    This tycoon had been capricious as far as Xu Chuanchuan could remember. This tycoon also had a <em>unique</em> thought process and arrogant personality. If she handled this situation poorly, this tycoon reader might very well do something crazy.


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately thought of the tycoon reader''s words as a threat. She wondered if she had angered the other partyst night, and she couldn''t help but regret her words. Before the other party had even said anything, Xu Chuanchuan had already conceded.


    I Love Mtang: "I was wrong! I was wrong! Tycoon, you must remain calm! I''ll pay you back the meat I owe you tonight, OK?"


    I Love Mtang: "I''ll start writing it now!"


    TL Notes:


    On the jjwxc tform, point reductions are basically bad reviews left by paying customers. I''m not sure about the specifics, but receiving too many point reductions will probably affect a novel''s partnership with the tform. In other words, the book will stop being mized. Of course, authors can issue aint if point reductions are made with malicious intent (aka troll reviews), and the tform will remove/ignore these point reductions if theint is valid.

 Chapter 25: Pt.2

    Chapter 25: Pt.2


    Murong Shi was currently enjoying the breeze out on the second-floor balcony.


    She had just woken up from an afternoon nap, and she had yet to change out of her pajamas. Shezily sat in a hanging lounge chair, holding a ss of fresh watermelon juice courtesy of Aunt Lian in one hand and her phone in the other hand.


    Murong Shi wasn''t sure when she had picked up this hobby, but nowadays, she would often mess around with Xu Chuanchuan whenever she had free time. When she imagined the other party''s defeated and frantic reactions, she couldn''t help but feel happy.


    Of course, Murong Shi still restrained herself a little to prevent herself from bing a pervert, and most of the words she said were mere jokes. However, she never expected Xu Chuanchuan to take her words seriously this time.


    <em>Write meat? Does she think I''m </em>that<em> hungry?</em>


    However, Murong Shi did not intend to clear up the misunderstanding. So long as Xu Chuanchuan dared to write the explicit content she promised, Murong Shi would read it.


    Suddenly, Murong Shi began wondering what kind of explicit scene Xu Chuanchuan would portray with her dull mind.


    After getting bored of browsing Weibo and finishing her juice, Murong Shi stretched her body. Seeing that there was still no response from Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi decided not to wait any longer and made her way to the bath.


    Midway through her bath, Murong Shi heard a knocking from her bedroom door. It was her mother calling her for dinner.


    Two hourster, Murong Shi returned to her room after apanying Murong Mingshu for an after-dinner stroll. She then took another bath to freshen up.


    While applying her facial mask, Murong Shi heard a "ding-dong"ing from her phone but ignored it as her skincare took priority.


    Half an hour had gone by already by the time Murong Shi finished applying all of her skincare products. Lying down on her bed, Murong Shi leisurely picked up her phone.


    She hadn''t turned off Weibo since shest used her phone, so she immediately saw an unread message after unlocking the screen.


    I Love Mtang: "I wrote it. The content is a little loaded, so take your time reading. [Shy]"


    Following the message were two images.


    Murong Shi tapped on the images and erged them one after another.


    Murong Shi originally didn''t hold any expectations, but when she finished reading the text in the two images, her face had turned livid.


    It really was a genuine piece of "meat." The writing had a proper start and end, and every step was written in detail. The writing gave a clear image of what was being described. If a hungry person read this, they would probably be drooling by now.


    Murong Shi frowned deeply.


    Murong Shi never thought that Xu Chuanchuan would be so "literal" as to write an entire "meat-braising" process for her. Moreover, it was even for the world-famous dishDongpo pork.


    Murong Shi angrily threw her phone aside.


    However, refusing to let Xu Chuanchuan get away so easily, she picked up her phone again, her fingers rapidly typing away at the virtual keyboard.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "I''m off to reduce some points. [Bye-bye]"


    Xu Chuanchuan was a person of her word. She had spent three hours researching online and watching videos for inspiration before sessfully writing a 2,000-word "meat article." Even she had found herself drooling when she read her writing, and she felt very pleased with her work. However, she never thought that the other party would be dissatisfied with it!


    I Love Mtang: "Don''t, don''t, don''t!!! Mercy!!! You don''t like Dongpo pork? How about we change it to something else? Red braised pork belly? Boiled beef? Fish with pickled vegetables? Roastmb? You order, I''ll write! [Please][Please]"


    However, after failing to get a reply for some time, Xu Chuanchuan finally realized that she might''ve gone too far.


    Biting on her t-shirt''s cor apprehensively, she opened the home page for her ongoing book and waited for the arrival of a certain someone''s point reductions.


    However, after smashing the F5 button for nearly ten minutes and failing to see "Passerby Shi"''s ID appearing, Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief.


    The conversation Xu Chuanchuan had with her little sister still affected her to a certain extent. Originally, she nned to do her best to avoid Murong Shi. She had even opted to use the restroom downstairs instead of the one on her office floor. However, after enacting her n a few times, she realized how short-sighted she was.


    How would Murong Shi have the spare time to mess with her every day?


    After three days of going to work, Xu Chuanchuan never caught sight of Murong Shi even once. Whenever she passed by the general manager''s office, she would always inadvertently find herself taking a peek inside. Though fearing that the person inside woulde out at any time, she would then hastily flee the area.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan rxed a lot after not seeing Murong Shi for a few days. In addition, Xu Chuanchuan also noticed that her capricious tycoon reader had inexplicably disappeared.


    Actually, the capricious tycoon''s disappearance wasn''t wholly inexplicable. There was a high possibility that Xu Chuanchuan had angered the tycoon, and the other party decided to stop following her work.


    Darling Shi has stopped sending Deep-waters.


    Lord''s update is so slow. I also want to stockpile, but I can''t help myself from reading.


    Haha! Lord is straight, so how could she have a girlfriend?


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw the word "girlfriend," she nearly crushed the mangosteen in her hand. No matter how many times her readers tagged her in the chat, she also didn''t dare make a peep. She then dismally thought to herself, <em>What true love? Someone even threatened to give me point reductions three days ago.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was gued with an unspeakable hardship. However, she had nothing but herself to me for this. <em>I should''ve simply stood my ground and vehemently refused. Why did I have to agree and write a joke article instead? I''m so stupid.</em>


    In reality, Murong Shi had been absent from thepany for the past three days. She and Linda had followed her uncle, Murong Mingkun, on a business trip outside the city.


    Murong Shi had been swamped with work throughout this trip, so she naturally wasn''t in any mood to read novels. Whenever she returned to the hotel, the first thing she did was remove her shoes and throw her exhausted body onto the bed.


    One day, Linda asked her before going to bed, "What''s the name of that novel you''re reading?"


    Murong Shi, who was removing her makeup, paused for a moment and asked, "Why do you ask?"


    "I''m curious and bored, so I''m thinking of reading it as well."


    Murong Shi turned to look at Linda, her phoenix eyes carrying unreadable emotions. After scrutinizing Linda, Murong Shi casually said, "I forgot."


    Linda: "..." <em>And here I wanted to cultivate amon hobby with her</em>


    Murong Shi continued removing her makeup after speaking, the emotions in her eyes settling down. However, thoughts still upied her mind.


    There was no way Murong Shi would ever forget the shocking and thought-provoking title of Xu Chuanchuan''stest book. Xu Chuanchuan had angered her quite significantly that day, and she very much wanted to use all of her point reductions. In the end, though, she endured her urges.


    To make herself feel better, she decided not to touch jjwxc''s app altogether.


    Friday arrived in the blink of an eye.


    One of Xu Chuanchuan''s male colleagues had his birthday today. Before it was time to get off work, he had invited everyone in the Engineering Department out to y. However, Xu Chuanchuan remained silent amidst everyone''s cheering.


    The male colleague in question then took notice of Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Little Xu, you''reing as well."


    Smiling awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I still have some work to do, so I''ll pass, but happy birthday."


    The male colleague frowned at Xu Chuanchuan''s reply. Moving closer, he said, "What can you do after working hours? Not to mention, it''s the weekend tomorrow. C''mon, give me some face."


    This male colleague was known for being a womanizer. Even though he had a girlfriend, he often made ambiguous jokes with other girls in the office. Hence, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t very fond of him.


    Xu Chuanchuan avoided the male colleague''s approach without hesitation and said, "I have to work overtime tonight."


    The male colleague was momentarily stunned. He thenughed and said, "Who are you kidding? Is there even a need to work overtime in ourpany?"


    It was indeed unnecessary, but Xu Chuanchuan refused to entertain her colleague. After pondering for a moment, she said, "A new batch of summer products just arrived, and the chief wants me to get pictures of them. I need to take pictures of every model. I can''t finish it without working overtime."


    This wasn''t actually an urgent matter, and Xu Chuanchuan had originally nned to leave it until next week.


    The male colleague put on a thoughtful look for a moment.


    Refusing to get entangled with her male colleague any longer, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her phone from her desk safe and said, "Sorry, but I''m busy."


    She would take a few pictures first and leave once her colleagues were gone.


    Half an hour before the end of her shift, Xu Chuanchuan entered the airtight photography room alone. Quite a few unpacked boxes were sitting in the corner, and she opened five of them first. After spreading the products on a table and adjusting the room''s brightness, she photographed the items from several angles.


    Half an hour wasn''t enough to photograph the five products. After she was done photographing, she still had to repack the products and clean up the room. By the time she was done, she had spent roughly an hour in the photography room already.


    Xu Chuanchuan moved quietly as she left the room. By now, everyone in her department should''ve left the building already, with a portion going home and the rest celebrating that male colleague''s birthday. Xu Chuanchuan hummed a tune and skipped and hopped as she returned to the Engineering Department.


    Suddenly, one of the doors lining the corridor opened.


    "Ah" Xu Chuanchuan gasped and jumped back in fright.


    The person who opened the door was also startled by Xu Chuanchuan''s voice, though the person''s expression quickly reverted to its originally icy-cold state. While scrutinizing Xu Chuanchuan, the person asked, "Why are you still here?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was confused. Why was Murong Shi still in thepany?


    Putting on a stiff smile, Xu Chuanchuan shook the camera she held and said, "I went to take pictures just now."


    While deliberately avoiding Murong Shi''s gaze, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is Linda not with you?"


    Instead of responding immediately, Murong Shi slowly closed the door behind her and indifferently said, "Her boyfriend came and picked her up to celebrate."


    Celebrate?


    "Oh, I forgot today was 520,"[1] Xu Chuanchuan said in realization. Her mind spinning rapidly, she then asked, "Are you celebrating with your boyfriend as well?"


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. She then said in an unreadable tone, "No."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not expect to receive this answer, so she was momentarily at a loss for words.


    "I''m leaving now."


    "Wait"


    Murong Shi turned around and looked at Xu Chuanchuan in confusion.


    Tightening her grip over the camera, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Thank you for dropping off my little sister that day."


    "You''ve thanked me for that already."


    Indeed, Xu Chuanchuan had already verbally thanked Murong Shi on that night. Xu Chuanchuan also didn''t know why she decided to mention this topic again.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt one of her ears itching, but she dared not scratch it. Her body tensed up in anxiety, and she felt very ufortable.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from reacting in this manner. Murong Shi was too tall. Coupled with Murong Shi''s indifferent expression, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel stressed whenever she stood in front of Murong Shi. Her mind falling apart due to the stress, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly asked, "How about I buy you dinner?"


    TL Notes:


    [1]520: This number represents (w i n - I love you) in Chinese inte ng. Hence, many Chinese celebrate May 20th as if they were celebrating Valentine''s Day.

 Chapter 26: Pt.1

    Chapter 26: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that she needed to get her brain reced. What kind of person was Murong Shi? How would Murong Shi be willing to dine with her?


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know what was currently going through Murong Shi''s mind, but it was probably filled with criticism toward her whimsical thinking. When Xu Chuanchuan sensed Murong Shi''s indifferent eyes scanning her body from head to toe yet heard not a wording from thetter''s mouth, she found herself growing embarrassed. She felt distressed as she thought of what she should say if the other party rejected her invite.


    However, contrary to Xu Chuanchuan''s expectations, Murong Shi calmly returned her gaze to Xu Chuanchuan''s face and said, "Sure."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s brain momentarily failed to process Murong Shi''s answer, her mouth opening and closing like a fish.


    Murong Shi then spoke again, asking, "What are you going to treat me to?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t need a mirror to know how stupid she looked right now. Wetting her dried lips anxiously, she responded with a question, "What do you want to eat?"


    Although Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know much about Murong Shi, many types of food had surfaced in her mind within a short period. French cuisine, high-end Chinese cuisine, steaks, foie gras, bird''s nest Xu Chuanchuan mentally went through all the high-ss cuisine she could think of. When she estimated how much these meals would cost, she felt that she would be breaking the bank today.


    Crossing her arms, Murong Shi tilted her head and pondered for a moment. She then said, "I don''t have any particr requirements. I''m quite hungry, so I just want some meat."


    Images of steak, foie gras, and bird''s nest ran through Xu Chuanchuan''s mind.


    Letting out a dryugh, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Can you be more specific?"


    "Are you treating me, or is it the other way around?" Murong Shi raised an eyebrow at Xu Chuanchuan''s question.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t even bring herself to smile anymore. After shaking the camera she held, she said, "Give me a moment. I''ll go drop this thing off first."


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan rushed back to her desk, locked the camera away, grabbed her bag, and dashed out of the office. When she looked down the corridor, she found that Murong Shi had disappeared already.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan made her way downstairs. She then saw the familiar Maserati Quattroporte parked outside the entrance. After taking a deep breath, she made her way to the car.


    When Xu Chuanchuan approached the car, the driver''s window lowered, revealing Murong Shi''s figure in the driver''s seat. Turning toward Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Get in."


    "I have my own ride. You" Before Xu Chuanchuan could finish her words, Murong Shi silenced her with a cold gaze. Xu Chuanchuan then obediently got into the passenger''s seat.


    With the two of them sitting so close to each other inside an enclosed space, Xu Chuanchuan could smell even the perfume Murong Shi wore. Realizing how close they were seated to each other, Xu Chuanchuan grew even more nervous.


    The instant Xu Chuanchuan fastened her seat belt, the car also gradually began moving.


    "Have you thought of what to eat yet?" Murong Shi asked with her eyes focused on the road.


    Staring at the side of Murong Shi''s face, Xu Chuanchuan said, "There''s a restaurant that serves Chaoshan beef hot pot on the left of the second traffic light. The taste is quite authentic. Why don''t we eat there? You can eat beef, right?"


    Murong Shi paused and pondered for a moment before faintly responding with an "mhm."


    With their dinner location decided, Xu Chuanchuan secretly wiped the sweat off her forehead.


    However, Murong Shi had perceptively noticed this small action, and she asked, "I have the a/c set at 25 degrees. Is it that hot?"


    Xu Chuanchuan stiffened. After trying but failing to smile, she said, "I ran a little too fast just now By the way, Miss Murong, do you like hot pot?"


    Xu Chuanchuan began trying to make conversation but regretted her decision as soon as she finished speaking.


    "I do."


    "..." <em>Forget it. We don''t have anymon topics. Let''s just avoid an awkward conversation.</em>


    There was a traffic jam ahead, so Murong Shi had to slow down the car. As neither of them spoke and no music was ying in the car, the two ended up spending several minutes in silence.


    Feeling as if she was sitting on pins and needles, Xu Chuanchuan turned to look out the window. When she saw the long line of cars outside, she thought to herself, <em>How nice it is to ride a bicycle. You can just ''whoosh'' and bypass the traffic.</em>


    Seeing the rental bicycles parked on the roadside, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she found a new conversation topic. Turning toward Murong Shi, she asked, "Do you know how to ride bicycles?"


    "No." Murong Shi didn''t even turn to look at Xu Chuanchuan.


    "..." Having made a fool of herself, Xu Chuanchuan returned to keeping her mouth shut.


    The traffic ahead started loosening, so Murong Shi moved the car forward a little, only to stop it again the next moment.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart screamed in agony. Every minute and second she spent in this car felt like torture. Xu Chuanchuan suddenly started pitying Linda. Thetter must be under a lot of pressure if she had to face Murong Shi''s icy expression every day.


    Xu Chuanchuan carefully pulled out her phone and found it was already close to ten minutes since they left thepany. If it weren''t for this traffic jam, they would''ve arrived at their destination by now.


    Xu Chuanchuan then began reminiscing about the bicycle she had been forced to leave at thepany.


    The traffic started moving again, and the car advanced at crawling speed. Xu Chuanchuan retracted her gaze from her phone and snuck a peek at the person next to her.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know if it was because of the terrible traffic, but Murong Shi''s emotionless face finally revealed some other expression. Currently, Murong Shi had her jaw tensed and wore a frown on her face. She looked as if she was sulking.


    <em>Is it because of her boyfriend?</em>


    That was a possibility.


    Today was, after all, the 20th of May. It was a romantic day for couples, and even Murong Shi''s assistant had run off to celebrate this day. Yet, Murong Shi had worked overtime by herself. Her boyfriend didn''te to pick her up, either. Looking at this situation, Xu Chuanchuan guessed that a conflict must''vee up between Murong Shi and her boyfriend.


    Murong Shi was indeed sulking, but for apletely different reason than what Xu Chuanchuan assumed. Instead, she felt baffled by the fact that she had agreed to Xu Chuanchuan''s invite to dinner.


    Unfortunately, it was already toote for regrets. However, Murong Shi would still inexplicably grow angry whenever she thought about the meat article Xu Chuanchuan sent her. Hence, she decided to ignore Xu Chuanchuan and make her feel as uneasy as possible.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan currently felt torn inside. Although she was the one to have invited Murong Shi out for dinner, if this awkward situation continued for any longer, she feared she would die from suffocation before the actual meal.


    Looking at the crawling traffic ahead, Xu Chuanchuan cleared her throat and broke the silence. "The traffic here usually isn''t so bad. Maybe it''s because everyone is rushing home to celebrate today."


    Murong Shi didn''t respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped as she thought to herself, <em>Oh no, I said the wrong thing.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to smack herself right now. She cursed at herself for her low EQ.


    As Xu Chuanchuan dared not look at Murong Shi''s reaction, the two of them fell into an awkward silence once more.


    At this time, Murong Shi suddenly asked, "Everyone else is celebrating today, so why aren''t you doing the same?"


    Startled by Murong Shi''s question, Xu Chuanchuan quickly organized her emotions, put on an awkward smile, and said, "Others have boyfriends, but I''m still single."


    Murong Shi stopped speaking.


    Xu Chuanchuan then resumed looking at the scenery outside.


    The silence continued until the traffic ahead cleared, and the ck sedan elerated. Xu Chuanchuan loosened her clenched fists as the car began moving. However, before she could breathe a sigh of relief, she snapped her head toward Murong Shi and asked, "Why did you take this turn?"


    Murong Shi turned to look at Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes and asked, "Didn''t you say to turn left at the traffic light?"


    "I meant the second traffic light"


    Murong Shi''s eyebrows twitched slightly. While tapping her finger on the steering wheel, she said, "It''ll be hard to turn around."


    Xu Chuanchuan was also afraid of getting into another traffic jam. Biting down on her lower lip, she said, "Why don''t we eat at another ce?"


    "Up to you."


    At Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan began agonizing again over what to eat.


    With nothing gooding to mind, Xu Chuanchuan scanned the shops outside the window.


    <em>Braised Chicken Rice, Northeast Dumpling House, Hunan Big Bowl Dish, Wace, Pizza Hut Why is everything fast food?</em>


    Even after scanning through all the restaurants within view, Xu Chuanchuan failed to find a slightly upper-ss ce to dine at. Helpless, she pulled out her phone and began searching through DianPing[1].


    Suddenly, Murong Shi said, "There''s a mtang restaurant over there."


    Upon hearing the word "mtang," a word that had apanied her in her writing career for the past six years, Xu Chuanchuan instinctively perked up her ears and looked at Murong Shi in surprise.


    Murong Shi then slowed down the car, raised her chin, and said, "Why are you looking at me? Look outside."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked toward the direction Murong Shi indicated and found herself looking at a restaurant named Zhang Liang''s Mtang. However, a secondter, she returned her gaze to Murong Shi, seemingly wanting to say something.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan''s previous spection regarding the identity of "Passerby Shi" resurfaced in her mind, and she couldn''t help but grow suspicious.


    Out of the many restaurants outside, why did Murong Shi choose Zhang Liang''s Mtang?


    <em>Could it be</em>


    The next second, Murong Shi dispelled Xu Chuanchuan''s suspicions as she nonchntly said, "Your little sister told me you liked mtang."


    Hearing Murong Shi''s exnation, Xu Chuanchuan quickly shook her head and forced a smile as she said, "I liked it a lot when I was in university. I ate it almost every day back then. But I rarely ate itter on after realizing that it was unhealthy."


    Putting on a cold smile, Murong Shi asked, "Is it <em>that</em> good?"


    Murong Shi''s eyes were bright and dark, and they gave off apelling aura. After staring into those eyes for ten seconds, Xu Chuanchuan timidly looked away and said, "It''s not bad, but it''s probably because it has a lot of pepper in it. It''s easy to get addicted to eating numbing things."


    <em>That''s strange. Why are we talking about this?</em> Though, despite Xu Chuanchuan''s confusion, her mouth inadvertently watered when she spoke about mtang. However, with Murong Shi staring at her, she couldn''t bring herself to swallow her saliva.


    Amidst her embarrassment, Xu Chuanchuan found that the car had stopped movingpletely.


    After parking the car by the roadside, Murong Shi casually said, "The traffic in front and behind are both bad. I don''t want to waste any more time, so let''s go to that ce."


    "Which one?"


    "Zhang Liang''s Mtang."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s jaw dropped. Seeing Murong Shi unbuckling her seat belt, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously asked, "Do you want to eat mtang?"


    Murong Shi sent Xu Chuanchuan a sidelong nce and responded, "If you can eat it, why can''t I?"


    After swallowing her saliva in her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No, but"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could finish speaking, the ringing of a phone interrupted her. Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously turned toward her phone, finding that the screen remained dark. She then saw Murong Shi pulling out her phone.


    TL Notes


    [1]DianPing: It''s a food review site in China.

 Chapter 26: Pt.2

    Chapter 26: Pt.2


    After moving her unbuckled seat belt to the side, Murong Shi answered the call and greeted, "Dad."


    "Dinner is almost ready. When will you be back?"


    Murong Shi remained silent for a moment. Her father would almost always be out socializing every day, and it was rare for him toe home for dinner. After thinking up an excuse, she said, "I forgot to tell you guys that I still have something to do. I won''t be going back for dinner."


    Sun An wasn''t annoyed by the reply. Instead, he asked, "Have you eaten yet, then? Do you want Aunt Lian to leave some supper for you?"


    "No need. Someone''s treating me. We''re just about to go eat."


    "Someone''s treating you? Right, I just realized today is 5-20. Are you celebrating with Shaohua?"


    After taking a nce at Xu Chuanchuan, who was still in a state of surprise, Murong Shi pursed her lips for a moment and somewhat reluctantly answered, "Mhm."


    Not having any doubts over her daughter''s answer, Sun An said, "You two have fun, then."


    "Okay."


    "Wait, your mother has something to say to you."


    After waiting for nearly a minute, Murong Shi heard Murong Mingshu''s voiceing through the phone, "Little Shi, are you really going to celebrate today with Shaohua?"


    Noticing that Murong Mingshu had lowered her voice, Murong Shi guessed that her mother must''ve hidden into a room. Her two parents held differing opinions regarding her "rtionship" with Jiang Shaohua, and Murong Shi couldn''t help but feel frustrated when squeezed between the two of them. On the one hand, she needed to put on a good act for her father, who supported her rtionship with Jiang Shaohua. On the other hand, she had to keep her mother, who was against her getting together with Jiang Shaohua, in the dark about her fake rtionship. The fact that she hadn''t slipped up until now was truly a miracle.


    Faking a rxed smile, Murong Shi replied, "Yes. Other couples are celebrating today, so how can we be an exception?"


    "But"


    "Mom, leave us alone. You should go and have your dinner. He''s still waiting for me, so I''m hanging up. Bye-bye."


    After storing away her phone, Murong Shi turned toward the person next to her, who had been staring at her all this time, and said, "Time to get out of the car."


    Xu Chuanchuan snapped out of her daze and unfastened her seat belt.


    "Are you sure you want to eat mtang?"


    "Is there a problem?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Of course there was a problem. Xu Chuanchuan was trying to return a favor this time. Treating someone to beef hot pot at least sounded a little generous, but that was far from being the case for mtang.


    One set of mtang only cost around a few dozen yuan. Such cheap food simply didn''t match well with all the branded goods Murong Shi wore.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was hesitating, Murong Shi had already begun making her way to the mtang restaurant. So, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to keep up.


    <em>Forget it. If she wants mtang, then so be it.</em>


    The restaurant was adequately cooled and surprisingly crowded. They even had to wait in line for a seat. While looking at the long line, Xu Chuanchuan began regretting bringing Murong Shi to this ce.


    <em>Wait, no. She''s the one who brought me here</em>


    However, Murong Shi seemingly didn''t mind the wait. While ignoring the curious stares she attracted after entering the store, she patted Xu Chuanchuan on the shoulder and said, "Start grabbing the ingredients."


    "Oh."


    Xu Chuanchuan grabbed an empty te and made her way to the self-service station. After filling half of therge te with beef, chicken, and pork, she still felt that the amount was insufficient. Just when she was about to fill the te with more meat, a pair of tongs dove into her te and removed half of the meat on it in a few pinches.


    Xu Chuanchuan turned toward the tongs'' owner and found that Murong Shi had arrived beside her at some point. After removing the meat, Murong Shi began filling the rest of the te with all sorts of vegetables.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Didn''t you say you wanted to eat meat?"


    "Now I want to eat greens."


    "..."


    After picking their ingredients, they had to wait an additional dozen minutes or so before a seat opened up. By the time they sat down, Xu Chuanchuan was already famished. However, she was also too embarrassed to start gobbling down her food in front of Murong Shi.


    "Do you want to add some sesame oil? It''s very addictive."


    "No, I don''t like sesame."


    "Oh" Xu Chuanchuan identally bit down on a pepper, and she quickly pulled a piece of tissue paper from the nearby dispenser and spat out the pepper.


    While eating, Xu Chuanchuan noticed Murong Shi eating very slowly as if shecked an appetite. Growing anxious at this sight, Xu Chuanchuan cautiously asked, "Is it good?"


    "It''s not bad. You can focus on your meal. No need to mind me."


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan tried starting a conversation a few more times afterward. However, a certain someone would always respond in a cold and perfunctory attitude, so Xu Chuanchuan decided to y dumb.


    <em>This meal is torture</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was probably the only one suffering during the meal, though, as Murong Shi looked no different than usual. She maintained an indifferent expression throughout the meal, and she stopped eating after taking a few bites.


    Xu Chuanchuan tensed up when she saw Murong Shi setting down her chopsticks. Halting all of her actions, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why did you stop eating?"


    Murong Shi took her time wiping her mouth with a tissue. After making sure her lips were clean, she replied, "I''m full."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened in bewilderment as she took a look at the huge bowl of food in front of her. She then took a look at the person across the table.


    "But you''ve only eaten so little"


    Smiling faintly, Murong Shi said, "You can take your time and eat the rest yourself."


    Murong Shi''s smile was like a blooming spring flower. It was a rare and beautiful sight. While staring at Murong Shi in a daze, Xu Chuanchuan said, "How can I eat everything by myself?"


    "I believe in you. Don''t waste it."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan began regretting ordering so much food.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan finished the entire bowl of food under Murong Shi''s coercive gaze. Her stomach had be so bloated that she didn''t drink any of the soup. She even failed to control herself and let out a burp, her face turning red from embarrassment.


    Pretending as if she didn''t see that, Murong Shi said, "Let''s go."


    This time, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t get onto Murong Shi''s car. The bowl of mtang she just paid for probably wasn''t even enough to make up for the gas money of Murong Shi''s car, and she couldn''t help but feel embarrassed when she thought about this. Not to mention, riding with Murong Shi was an incredibly stressful experience.


    While patting her stomach, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly smiled and said, "I overate, so I''m thinking of walking back to help with digestion."


    Murong Shi frowned at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. "You''re walking back?"


    "Yes. I live nearby. It''s only about a ten-minute walk."


    "Alright, suit yourself." Murong Shi did not insist on the matter. After letting her eyes wander for a moment, her gazended on Xu Chuanchuan''s red lips. She then bent down slightly and said, "Your lips seem to be shaking."


    At such a close distance, Xu Chuanchuan could even feel Murong Shi''s breath on her face. Startled by Murong Shi''s approach, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously took a step backward.


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan snapped out of her daze, Murong Shi had already straightened her body. Waving at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Thank you for your mtang. I''ll be leaving first."


    Xu Chuanchuan touched her numbed lips and said a silent "Bye-bye."


    The walk home took longer than Xu Chuanchuan expected, and she ended up walking for nearly twenty minutes before she arrived back in her rented apartment. By this time, the sky had darkenedpletely already.


    After arriving back home, Xu Chuanchuan opened herputer and saw that Ange had messaged her, inviting her to a joint writing session.


    Xu Chuanchuan replied with a "Just got home" and opened her work folder.


    Probably because of her bloated stomach, Xu Chuanchuan failed to find any inspiration for her writing.


    Seeing that she was getting nowhere with her writing, Xu Chuanchuan decided to shower and wash off the sweat she worked up from walking home.


    However, even after showering, Xu Chuanchuan still failed to find any inspiration, so she decided to just turn off herputer and fiddle with her phone on the bed. Seeing Ange''s status on QQ was still set to "Busy," Xu Chuanchuan knew that the other party still hadn''t finished writing. So, she decided not to disturb her.


    At this time, someone tagged her in her reader group, so she switched to the group chat and took a look.


    Lord, your Darling Shi is back again. @I Love Mtang


    <em>Darling...Shi? Passerby Shi?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated for a moment before switching to jjwxc''s app and visiting her ongoing work''s home page. After five days, she once again saw that familiar ID.


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly burst into tears.


    Fortunately, Passerby Shi''s reappearance came along with a Deep-water Torpedo and not a point reduction.


    <em>This tycoon''s temper really is unpredictable. Is she not angry at me anymore?</em>


    Eager to seek confirmation, Xu Chuanchuan logged back into Weibo and clicked on the familiar blue ocean profile picture.


    I Love Mtang: "Thank you for sparing me, Tycoon. [Cup fist]"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "You''re wee."


    I Love Mtang: "I thought I angered you away..."


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "I was on a business trip these past few days."


    I Love Mtang: "Oh."


    Someone in the reader group tagged her again, and Xu Chuanchuan switched back to take a look.


    Lord, get Darling Shi to join the group! I want to chat about life with her! @I Love Mtang


    Have Passerby Shi join the group?


    Why didn''t she think of this before?!


    Xu Chuanchuan had always found messaging on Weibo to be inconvenient. Passerby Shi also had a strange temper, and Xu Chuanchuan always had a tough time coping with her. Now, there was an opportunity for her to seek backup.


    I Love Mtang: "Do you use QQ? I have a reader group with a lot of cute girls inside. If you''re interested, you cane in and have a chat with them~"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "How do you know I''m interested in girls?"


    I Love Mtang: "Isn''t that normal for girls reading yuri? There are many single girls in the group, so you can alsoe in to find a girlfriend~"


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "How do you know I don''t have a girlfriend?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    I Love Mtang: "So you have a girlfriend Sorry, ignore what I said"


    Several minutester.


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: "What''s the group ID?"


    After several more minutes, Xu Chuanchuan''s phone vibrated as she received a request to join her reader group.


    I''m Passerby Shi.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart beating with excitement. After clicking "ept," she sent a message to the group: "I''ve summoned the tycoon you all asked for. Flirt away~"


    Wahhh! The tycoon is here! Everyone,e and give a warm wee!


    Wee~


    Wee, neer.


    I''m the best at flirting, so let me do it. Neer, report your three sizes. Also, do you have a girlfriend?


    Is this really Darling Shi? There are six digits in her QQ ID. Heavens, how old are you, Darling Shi?


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from smiling as she sat in front of herputer.


    Previously, Passerby Shi was always the one torturing Xu Chuanchuan in their conversations. Now that Xu Chuanchuan got to see a group of people grilling Passerby Shi, she couldn''t help grow joyful.


    Murong Shi:


    Murong Shi began regretting joining the reader group. Messages flooded her screen as soon as she joined the group, dazzling her eyes. Some people in the group even tagged her in their messages.


    Darling Shi, you''re finally here! Lord says that she''s straight, but we don''t believe her! We suspect that you''re her girlfriend! Were we right or wrong? @Passerby Shi


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes at this message. She then tapped her fingers on her phone and replied: "I''m not. She''s dumb and stupid. She''s also such a glutton. Even if I''m looking for a girlfriend, why should I look for her?"


    TL Notes:


    [1]mtang: Mtang is simr to hot pot, but not exactly the same.


    In mtang''s case, you pick your ingredients first and pay up. The staff then boils everything in soup(mtang) and serves the cooked food in a massive bowl (or a small one if you didn''t order a lot of food).


    In the case of hot pots, you order one (or two) soup bases, then order the ingredients as you dine. You don''t have to order everything at once, and you only make payment after you are done eating.


    The benefit of hot pot over mtang is that you don''t have to guess how much you can eat, so you don''t have to worry about ordering too much or too little. The downside is that hot pot ingredient prices are usually higher since the restaurant needs to hire more staff to bring the food to you. More service, more money.

 Chapter 27: Pt.1

    Chapter 27: Pt.1


    After Xu Chuanchuan grabbed a carton of cultured milk from the fridge, she returned to see her reader group exploding into activity.


    Lord got dumped, lololol.


    It''s okay, Lord! Even if Darling Shi doesn''t want you, I want you!


    How is Lord dumb? She''s clearly very cute! Lord, I love you! [Flying kiss]


    Anyway, do you have a girlfriend already, Darling Shi?


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan scrolled up to check the chat history and found that the cause of thismotion was because of a message from Passerby Shi.


    When Xu Chuanchuan read Passerby Shi''s message, she very nearly spat out the cultured milk in her mouth. This tycoon dissed her on the first message she sent after joining the group!


    <em>What does she mean dumb and stupid?! Everyone I know hasplimented me for being cute and adorable, alright?! As for being a gluttonthat''s because I use a lot of energy! Not only do I have to work from nine to five every day, but I also have toe home and write every night!</em>


    <em>This is too much! This won''t do! I must fight back!</em>


    <em>But how should I counter her? She''s given me so many Deep-waters already, and all of that is money</em>


    <em>Ugh, forget it. She''s my bread and butter; I better not offend her. I''ll just treat this as her unique way of showing love.</em>


    While drinking her cultured milk through a straw, Xu Chuanchuan rested her hands on her keyboard. However, before she started typing, her smile gradually froze up.


    <em>How does she know I eat a lot?</em>


    When bringing up the topic of eating, the first thing Xu Chuanchuan thought of was the meal she shared with Murong Shi a few hours ago. And the more she thought about the matter, the more she found it to be fishy.


    There were plenty of good ces to eat on that street, so why did Murong Shi decide on the mtang restaurant? Could it really be due to Xu Xiangxiang''s words?


    During the meal, it was also evident Murong Shi found the food to be unptable as she stopped eating after taking a few bites. She then forced Xu Chuanchuan to finish everything. Wasn''t this the perfect evidence to prove that Xu Chuanchuan was capable of eating a lot of food?


    Also, before Passerby Shi had joined the reader group, she had told Xu Chuanchuan in their private conversation that she had been inactive the past few days because she was on a business trip. As it so happened, Xu Chuanchuan also failed to see Murong Shi in the office the past few days. Could this be a mere coincidence?


    There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings[1], Passerby Shi, and Murong Shi. All three names contained the word "Shi."


    After including all these suspicious points with her previous conjectures, Xu Chuanchuan started growing suspicious of Passerby Shi''s identity again.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was immersed in her thoughts, her group chat was still zing with activity. Many people in the group also tagged her. However, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t in the mood to joke around with everyone. While agonizing over her thoughts, she sucked up the remaining cultured milk in the carton. When the cool and slippery liquid flowed down her throat and into her esophagus, it calmed her mind a little.


    Grabbing her mouse, Xu Chuanchuan tapped into Passerby Shi''s QQ profile card. However, when she read the information that appeared, she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    Female, Age 16, Sagittarius, H City.


    <em>This Apart from the gender, everything else is incorrect</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan knew the information was fake at a nce. However, this was an understandable oue as many people were reluctant to reveal their personal information on the inte. Even Xu Chuanchuan herself had written a bunch of nonsense on her profile card.


    For the moment, the only thing Xu Chuanchuan was certain of was that Passerby Shi wasn''t 16 years old. Someone at this age should still be in high school. How could someone without any independent economic capacity possibly have the spare money to send so many Deep-water Torpedoes?


    <em>Not to mention, if she is underage, wouldn''t that mean I''vemitted a big crime? Sending explicit content to an underage girl Just the thought of it scares me.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan refused to give up here. Seeing as she couldn''t count on the profile card''s information, she decided to check if Passerby Shi''s personal space hid any secrets. However, when she clicked on the yellow star icon on Passerby Shi''s profile card


    She got stopped


    The other party prohibited strangers from viewing her personal space


    However, could this little problem stump her? Not a chance! Xu Chuanchuan was an indomitable Taurus. Taking a deep breath, she moved her cursor to Passerby Shi''s name, right-clicked it, and added the other party as a friend.


    Verification question: "Why are you adding me?"


    Feeling no shame whatsoever, Xu Chuanchuan cheekily typed: "Because I like you~"


    Several secondster.


    To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, her request got rejected


    <em>Why is she protecting her information so strictly? Doesn''t this mean she has something to hide? </em>Xu Chuanchuan grew even more suspicious now.


    Amidst her daze, the avatar located on the lower right corner of the messenger started shing. Xu Chuanchuan quickly retracted her thoughts and clicked on the avatar, only to be stunned once again.


    A certain someone had sent her a private message through the reader group.


    Passerby Shi: "What do you want?"


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the feeling as if she had just been caught red-handed whilemitting a crime. Deliberately typing slowly, she replied: "I wanted to add you as a friend so that we can have an easier time chatting in the future"


    Passerby Shi: "Why are you peeking into my personal space?"


    Holding back her shame, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I was curious. I wanted to see if there were any pictures of a beauty. [Shy]"


    Passerby Shi: "Even if there are, they''re not for your eyes."


    <em>She''s hiding something. She''s definitely hiding something!</em>


    I Love Mtang: "Why?"


    Passerby Shi: "Why must I let you see my private space? My girlfriend will kill me if she finds out."


    Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded. Could she have guessed wrongly? The wholepany knew that Murong Shi had a boyfriend. Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan had personally seen the boyfriend in question as well. Yet, Passerby Shi was clearly a lesbian.


    <em>Could she be tricking me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts fell into a tangled state for a moment. However, she still couldn''t be at ease.


    I Love Mtang: "Why do you know I''m a glutton?" Passerby Shi might be able to fake other information, but this was one thing that she couldn''t make up.


    Passerby Shi: "Anyone will know after taking a look at your Weibo."


    I Love Mtang: "...Which Weibo post?"


    Passerby Shi: "You ordered ten chicken wings, a packet of fries, and arge cup of coke. You call this not being a glutton?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan was thoroughly at a loss for words this time. She had indeed made such a post before. The day she made that post was also the day she met Murong Shi for the first time. On that day, she had visited a nearby KFC by herself. And as soon as she bought her food and found herself a seat, the first thing she did was take a picture of her order and upload it to Weibo.


    Passerby Shi had practically overturned all of Xu Chuanchuan''s doubts with this one reasoning. However, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help but feel that something was amiss.


    Xu Chuanchuan also couldn''t bring herself to ask the other party for a selfie. And even if the other party agreed, there was no guarantee that the person in the photo would be Passerby Shi herself or some random person.


    With her ideas meeting a dead-end, Xu Chuanchuan ced her hands on her cheeks and sighed as she stared at her conversation log with Passerby Shi.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s low IQ was her Achilles'' heel, and it would seem that being a detective didn''t suit her.


    After pondering for a long time, Xu Chuanchuan typed out another question.


    I Love Mtang: "Since you have a girlfriend, wouldn''t she grow jealous if you send me so many Deep-waters?"


    Passerby Shi: "Why should she be jealous?"


    <em>Uh </em>Realizing that she worded her question strangely, Xu Chuanchuan quickly corrected herself.


    "What I mean is that since you''ve given me so many Deep-waters, wouldn''t she mis" Before Xu Chuanchuan could finish typing out her sentence, another message popped up on her screen.


    Passerby Shi: "It''s not like I like you, so why should she be jealous?"


    I Love Mtang: "You don''t like me? Why did you give me so many Deep-waters, then? [Shocked]"


    Xu Chuanchuan sent her message without giving it a second thought. However, she quickly realized the ambiguity in her sentence, and she thought to add rification.


    Passerby Shi: "I have too much money and nowhere to spend it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." Xu Chuanchuan felt personally attacked, and she couldn''t be bothered to rify herself anymore.


    Passerby Shi: "This is your second time checking my ount now. What are you aiming at?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." Xu Chuanchuan bit down on her straw with a guilty conscience.


    Passerby Shi: "Isn''t it disingenuous of you to flirt with your own reader?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    How did the conversation change to her flirting with her reader?!?!?!


    Xu Chuanchuan''s fingers quickly danced on the keyboard, and she made multiple typos in her haste. After deleting and correcting her words, again and again, she eventually reced those dispensable exnations with three concise words.


    I Love Mtang: "I did not!!!"


    Passerby Shi no longer replied to her.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not harass the other party again for fear of getting pinned with the crime of "flirting with her reader."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt suffocated, and she wanted to do nothing but cry right now. However, she suddenly felt a cramping paining from her stomach, and she quickly dismissed her thoughts as she ran for the bathroom while holding her stomach.


    Ten minutester.


    Xu Chuanchuan dragged her two numb legs out of the bathroom. Paying no more attention to the buzz in her reader group, she turned off herputer and threw herself onto the bed. Almost at the same time as her body made contact with the bed, she received a message from Ange.


    Ange: "Is this Passerby Shi that Passerby? [Image]"


    The content of the screenshot Ange sent was the dissing message Passerby Shi sent after joining the reader group. Seeing this message again, Xu Chuanchuan felt her stomach hurt even more. Bundling her nket in her arms, she rolled around on the bed in agony for a moment before sending a reply.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Mhm."


    Ange: "Tch, she speaks even more arrogantly than I do."


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to say that Passerby Shi had sent even more arrogant messages.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you done writing?"


    Ange: "Just finished."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Take a look at this. [Image]"


    What Xu Chuanchuan just sent was her private conversation with Passerby Shi. When Ange was done going through the conversation log, she had a simr reaction as Passerby Shi: "I don''t get what you''re trying to do."


    After switching to a morefortable sitting posture and enduring her rumbling stomach, Xu Chuanchuan told Ange about the dinner incident she had with Murong Shi.


    Ange: "So, you suspect that this Passerby Shi is your boss''s daughter?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t you think there are a lot of suspicious points? There are also so many coincidences."


    Ange: "I think you''re overthinking things."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    When Xu Chuanchuan first started to suspect Murong Shi, she, too, found her thoughts to be ridiculous. Moreover, with her conjectures overturned time and time again, she also started to feel that she was overthinking the matter. However, her instincts kept telling her that Passerby Shi seemed to be someone who knew her in real life.


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan also knew that she couldn''t use her intuition as the basis of her assumptions.


    Ange: "Looking at the content of your conversation, if I were in Passerby Shi''s shoes, I would think that you are plotting something untowardly as well."


    Xu Chuanchuan fell silent. She had indeed tried to pry into Passerby Shi''s personal information, and this was a fact she couldn''t weasel her way out of. However, she never thought that Passerby Shi would misunderstand and think that she was trying to flirt with her.


    Ange: "This person is right, Tang''er. You better not mess around like Fragrant Citrus."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What do you mean?"


    Ange: "Sleeping with your readers!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Oh please, I''m straight."


    Ange: "You''ve been a single dog[1] for the past 25 years. Are you sure about that?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange: "Be honest with me. You''ve constantly been bringing up your boss''s daughter in front of me recently. If I didn''t know any better, it seems that you are eagerly hoping for this Passerby Shi to be your boss''s daughter. Don''t tell me you''ve fallen for her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Fallen for who?"


    Ange: "Your boss''s daughter."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Impossible! I''m straight!"


    Ange: "Alright, alright, no need to emphasize it. In any case, make sure to remember your promise to me. Even if you be bent, you muste to me first!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    On this romantic day, Xu Chuanchuan browsed her social media through her phone, looking at her friends showing off their love with their respective partners, all the while having her stomach churning and filled with grievances.


    At one point, Xu Chuanchuan held up her phone and took a selfie of her miserable state. After censoring the photo, she shared it onto her author''s Weibo ount apanied by the words: "No matter how good mtang is, you mustn''t overeat. Otherwise, you''ll die from diarrhea. [Cry]"


    Fortunately, her readers were a bunch of little angels, and everyone left her positivements. Some of them even gave her donations. And apart from Passerby Shi, one other reader had given her a Deep-water Torpedo.


    Reader nickname: I Love Hotpot


    Donationment: Tang''er, I love you! Be my girlfriend!


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately knew that this was Ange''s sub-ount, and she couldn''t help but feel helpless about it.


    TL Notes:


    [1]There Exists No Poem in a Girl''s Feelings: As a recap, "poem" is (Sh) in Chinese. Meanwhile, Murong Shi''s and Passerby Shi''s "Shi" is also (Sh).


    [2]single dog: This is amon term used in China to refer to single people. When single people/single dogs get shown situations such as couples are flirting with each other, it is also referred to as being fed "dog food."

 Chapter 27: Pt.2

    Chapter 27: Pt.2


    It was half-past ten in the evening.


    After watching two drama episodes, Murong Mingshu turned off the TV and prepared to head to bed.


    At this time, Aunt Lian sent Murong Mingshu a nce before pointing her chin in Murong Shi''s direction.


    Seeing Aunt Lian''s gesture, Murong Mingshu turned toward her daughter, who was staring into her phone on the nearby sofa, and said, "Little Shi, it''s time for bed."


    Murong Shi lifted her head and replied, "Okay."


    Looking at Murong Shi with a warm smile, Aunt Lian asked, "Little Shi, what has gotten you so fascinated? You''ve been grinning all night while holding your phone. Are you chatting with Shaohua?"


    Murong Shi was stunned. Had she been grinning?


    The corners of her lips tensing up, Murong Shi put on an awkward smile and said, "No, Aunt Lian."


    "Who else could it be if it''s not Shaohua? I''ve never seen him even once after staying here for so long. Do you have a picture of him on your phone? Can you let me take a look?"


    Jiang Shaohua''s photo...was something Murong Shi didn''t have on her phone.


    With no better options, Murong Shi frankly said, "Sorry, Aunt Lian, but I don''t have his photo."


    Puzzled, Aunt Lian asked, "Isn''t he your boyfriend? Don''t you two usually take photos together?"


    In a rxed tone, Murong Shi answered, "No, I don''t like taking pictures very much."


    Sighing ruefully, Aunt Lian said, "You''ve grown to be such a beautiful youngdy, yet you don''t like taking pictures. Even so, Shaohua really is terrible. Not only did he not give you any flowers on a day like this, but he even treated you to something as unhygienic as mtang. What kind of boyfriend is this?"


    Murong Shi remained silent. This topic was her fault as she had used Jiang Shaohua as a shield to deal with her family''s pressing questions. Listening to Aunt Lian''s nagging now, Murong Shi couldn''t help but feel sorry for him. To salvage Jiang Shaohua''s reputation a little, she said, "I was the one who wanted to eat it."


    Fortunately, Aunt Lian didn''t think too much into the matter. Frowning, she said, "If you want to eat mtang, I''ll make it for you at home next time. Restaurants outside don''t usually pay much attention to hygiene."


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "I know. I rarely eat outside."


    At this time, Murong Shi interjected and asked, "What do you normally eat at thepany, then?"


    "I order takeout."


    pping her thigh, Aunt Lian said, "Aigoo, how can you eat takeouts every day?! Those things are all unhealthy! I''ll prepare lunch one hour ahead and have someone deliver it to you from now on!"


    Murong Mingshu concurred, "That''s a good idea."


    With her two elders speaking in tune with each other, Murong Shi didn''t even have a chance to retort.


    However, because of her tanned skin and in attire, when Aunt Lian arrived at thepany the next day and told Xu Xiaomei, the receptionist, she was the Murong family''s nanny, Xu Xiaomei thought she was a scammer for a moment.


    Unable to decide on the matter, Xu Xiaomei called the general manager''s office through the internal line for verification. After exining the situation through the phone, she heard Murong Shi saying, "Yes, she''s my family''s nanny. Let her in."


    Learning that Aunt Lian was a member of her boss''s household, Xu Xiaomei dared not dawdle. She then took the initiative to lead Aunt Lian to the general manager''s office.


    However, Aunt Lian revealed a bright smile and said, "No need for such trouble. Just tell me where to go, and I''ll head there by myself."


    "You just need to go to the second floor and head straight down the corridor. Miss Murong is in the general manager''s office."


    "Alright, thank you."


    "You''re wee."


    While holding a thermos bucket in one hand, Aunt Lian strode forward swiftly and steadily. She decided to deliver the food herself today because she was curious to see what Murong Shi''spany looked like. When she came across a well-dressed male employee, she sent the man an honest smile.


    After the male employee felt puzzled for a moment, he then opened the door to an office.


    When Aunt Lian saw the words "Engineering Department"beling the door, she wondered what this department was for. Before she could retract her gaze, she saw another person walking out of the office. This person, though, was female.


    The other party was a youngdy in her twenties, and she had soft and healthy skin. Aunt Lian liked girls like this as they looked filled with positive energy at a nce. As a result, she couldn''t help but take a few more looks at the other party, not even realizing that she was very intrusive with her eyes.


    The person on the receiving end of Aunt Lian''s gaze started growing ufortable, and she said, "You are"


    Aunt Lian didn''t expect the youngdy to take the initiative to talk to herself. Putting on her signature honest smile, Aunt Lian said, "Hello, I''m here to findHuh? Prettydy! It''s you!"


    Xu Chuanchuan stared at Aunt Lian with a stunned look on her face. Laughing dryly, she asked, "Do we know each other?"


    Aunt Lian grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s arm with her free hand, unable to contain her excitement as she said, "Don''t you remember? I borrowed your phone half a month ago!"


    <em>Borrowed my phone?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan carefully observed the person in front of her but failed to recall where she had met this person before. However, when she heard Aunt Lian''s reminder, she immediately remembered the scene where ady from the countryside had asked her and Xu Xiangxiang for help. Realization dawning upon her, she asked, "You were that Auntie who got her wallet stolen?"


    "That''s me! I even gave you a call afterward saying that I wanted to give you something in return, but you refused my offer no matter what."


    Xu Chuanchuan was still unused to being too friendly with strangers. Smiling awkwardly, she said, "It''s just a small favor. Anyway, are you here to look for someone?"


    "That''s right. I''m here to deliver food to Little Shi. Do you work here?"


    "Mhm." Xu Chuanchuan started pondering in her mind, figuring out how many people in thepany could be referred to as "Little Shi."


    Releasing Xu Chuanchuan''s arm, Aunt Lian held up the thermos bucket in her hand and said, "I''m really sorry, but I didn''t bring any extras today. I''ll make sure to bring more next time so you can try my craft."


    ttered, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No, no, you''re too polite, Auntie."


    "No, no, this is something I must do. Had I known where you lived, I would''ve long since visited you. Now that I know you work in thispany, I must properly thank you!"


    "This"


    "Little Xu." A colleague suddenly called out to Xu Chuanchuan from inside the office.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was turning back to answer her colleague, she heard Aunt Lian saying, "I''ll stop bothering you now, so go ahead with your work."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t put too much thought into this chance meeting. She thought of it as nothing but a small interlude. That was, until the next day when she received an internal call from the general manager''s office nearing lunchtime.


    In a t tone, Murong Shi said, "Come to my office at break time."


    Xu CHuanchuan''s heart thumped, and her brain spun rapidly. When she thought back to the bowl of mtang she shared with Murong Shi, she couldn''t help but have a bad premonition. <em>Did she get a stomach ache as well?</em>


    With apprehension in her heart, Xu Chuanchuan opened her mouth to speak. Unfortunately, before she could do so, the other party had already hung up.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    For the next half an hour, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t focus on her work no matter what. It also seemed that her lunch appointment with Chen Lina and a few other colleagues would no longer be possible, so she quickly messaged Chen Lina on WeChat and asked the other party to pack some food back for her.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know whether Murong Shi was looking for a fight or there was actual work to do, she dared not drag her feet. As soon as lunchtime began, she promptly went and knocked on the general manager''s office''s door.


    "Come in."


    Xu Chuanchuan pushed open the door and found Murong Shi standing beside her desk, fiddling with something.


    Timidly, Xu Chuanchuan called out, "Miss Murong"


    Hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s voice, Murong Shi turned around, nced at the shorter woman, and asked, "Are you hungry?"


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan failed to understand what was going on.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan finally noticed what Murong Shi held in her hands were tworge thermos buckets. Although these buckets looked somewhat familiar, she couldn''t remember where she had seen them for the moment.


    Moving the two buckets to the lounge area''s coffee table, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s dazed expression and said, "Come here."


    It was amanding tone that wouldn''t take "no" for an answer.


    Xu Chuanchuan walked over and looked at the two thermos buckets. She then looked at Murong Shi''s face. Although she had roughly guessed what was going on, she was still a little unsure as she asked, "What did you mean by that?"


    Opening the lid of one of the buckets, Murong Shi said, "Aunt Lian cooked up a big meal for you. Let''s eat together."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened. She never thought that the countrysidedy would be the Murong family''s nanny.


    After realizing the situation, Xu Chuanchuan''s expression grew even more unnatural as she stammered, "But I already asked Lina to bring me food."


    When Murong Shi opened the lid of the second bucket, a delectable fragrance immediately filled the room. Murong Shi then sent a casual nce at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Aunt Lian''s craftsmanship is top-tier. Would you rather eat takeout over it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan could smell the scent of sweet and sour fish, the freshness of chicken soup, and the strong fragrance of garlic. Although she forced herself not to look at the two thermos buckets, her mouth had inadvertently started salivating.


    If given a choice, no normal person would choose takeout over such delicacies.


    Xu Chuanchuan was a normal person.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan thought about how she would have to share lunch with Murong Shi She couldn''t help but feel uneasy.


    As if having seen through Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts, Murong Shi said, "It''s not like this is the first time we''re eating together. Do you think I''ll eat you alive?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan felt that she was being a little unreasonable. Awkwardly rubbing her nose, she said, "I''ll wash my hands first."

 Chapter 28: Pt.1

    Chapter 28: Pt.1


    When Xu Chuanchuan returned to the general manager''s office after dawdling in the washroom for a few minutes, she found that Murong Shi had already set up the food.


    Murong Shi knew that Xu Chuanchuan was the one who had entered the room, so she didn''t even bother lifting her head.


    After Xu Chuanchuan quickly adjusted her breath and gently closed the door, she tentatively took a seat on the sofa opposite Murong Shi.


    "Try the soup first," Murong said in a t tone.


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan immediately reached for the bucket storing the soup and said, "I''ll pour it for us."


    If Xu Chuanchuan were to let Murong Shi serve her, she would probably have difficulty swallowing her food throughout the meal.


    However, as luck would have it, Murong Shi also happened to have the same idea, and their hands ended up touching each other. Upon making skin contact, Xu Chuanchuan''s fingertips trembled slightly, and her hands jolted downward. She then held onto the thermos bucket''s lower half tightly.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi let Xu Chuanchuan have the bucket.


    The soup was light, and several wolfberries and drops of oil could be seen floating at the top of the liquid. There were also several pieces of chicken sitting at the bottom of the bucket. Xu Chuanchuan then carefully poured the soup into the two bowls prepared on the table.


    Once Xu Chuanchuan was done, she took a look at the clean coffee table and breathed out a sigh of relief.


    Fortunately, her hands didn''t shake, and she didn''t spill any soup onto the table.


    After lowering her head, Xu Chuanchuan made a gesture of invitation and said, "You first."


    Murong Shi snorted and ced a metal spoon into each bowl. She then said, "We''re only having a meal. No need to be so formal."


    <em>How can I not be formal?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan tried to be as natural as possible. Even so, only after seeing Murong Shi picking up one of the bowls did she dare make any further movements.


    As the thermos bucket was well-insted, the soup was still piping hot even now. Murong Shi first blew on it a few times before taking a few small sips.


    Xu Chuanchuan was much more impatient inparison, and she wanted nothing more than to finish the meal and leave as quickly as possible. By the time Xu Chuanchuan''s bowl was empty, Murong Shi was still leisurely sipping away at her soup. Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan felt awkward and didn''t know what she should do as she held onto her empty bowl.


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s conundrum, Murong Shi pointed her chin at the rice and dishes spread across the coffee table.


    "ThenI won''t be polite anymore."


    While Xu Chuanchuan served half a bowl of rice to herself, she heard Murong Shi indifferently saying, "You should eat more."


    After hesitating for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I don''t eat a lot."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan meaningfully and asked, "Is that so?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head and filled up the rest of her bowl with rice.


    There were sweet and sour fish, pan-fried mushrooms and vegetables, braised pig trotters, and ck fungus sd served on the table. With Murong Shi''s small appetite, she probably wouldn''t be able to finish even one-tenth of all these dishes. Xu Chuanchuan also wouldn''t be able to finish all of it even if she let herself loose.


    And even if Xu Chuanchuan could finish everything, she wouldn''t dare do so after the mtang incident.


    Murong Shi eventually finished drinking her soup. When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi filling her bowl with only a small scoop of rice andpared it to the full bowl she got for herself, she grew even more embarrassed. Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why do you have such a small appetite despite being so tall?"


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi answered, "I only fill myself partially every meal."


    "Huh?"


    Nonchntly, Murong Shi said, "So as to not get fat, I have no choice but to let my stomach suffer."


    After taking a closer look at Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan inwardly thought to herself, No wonder she''s so slim.


    Sure enough, there was always a price for beauty.


    While scrutinizing Murong Shi''s body, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently found herself looking at the other party''s thin waist. She would be lying if she said she wasn''t jealous of Murong Shi''s figure. Suddenly, she regretted filling up the rest of her bowl.


    Ignoring Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze, Murong Shi repeated, "So, you need to eat more. Don''t let the food go to waste."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Why do I always get stuck with such difficult tasks?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan began eating her meal in silence. She tricked herself into thinking that her mood would get better so long as she didn''t look at the person sitting opposite her.


    "It''s not working hours now, so you don''t have to be so afraid of me."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hand holding her chopsticks shook slightly. Feigning calmness, she said, "I''m not afraid. I''m just...not used to this."


    "I''m a very easygoing person."


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but look at Murong Shi in surprise.


    <em>Easygoing? What was up with the bootlicking essay recital and recording session, then?</em>


    Murong Shi easily saw through the usation in Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes. However, she paid it no mind and casually said, "But that''s on the precondition that you do not offend me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>How humble of you.</em>


    It had taken Xu Chuanchuan a lot of effort to rx. However, after hearing Murong Shi''s words, she started growing nervous again, so she elerated her eating speed.


    Xu Chuanchuan liked to eat meat, but she dared not let herself go in front of Murong Shi. To avoid embarrassing herself, she mainly extended her chopsticks to the two tes of vegetables. Murong Shi, on the other hand, was someone who favored vegetables over meat. Inevitably, their chopsticks ended up colliding with each other at one point.


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly retracted her chopsticks and indicated for Murong Shi to go first.


    Sending Xu Chuanchuan a nce, Murong Shi said, "I couldn''t tell that you were such a friendly person."


    "Hmm?"


    "Aunt Lian is my mother''s childhood friend. Thank you for helping her that day."


    The change in topic was too sudden, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be stunned. Sitting upright, she said, "It''s just a small favor. You all are being too polite. If you were in my shoes, you would also do the same, right?"


    Smirking, Murong Shi said, "No need to tter me. I''m not as kind as you are."


    "..." Her ttery failing, Xu Chuanchuan looked down awkwardly. When she saw the dishes on the table, a gleam appeared in her eyes, and she said, "Aunt Lian''s really good at cooking. The dishes are fragrant, and the soup is also delicious."


    Murong Shi nodded in agreement and said, "I''ll help you convey your words."


    "Then Please tell Aunt Lian that I''ve already tasted her cooking, so she doesn''t need to bring me any more food next time."


    "Mhm. Eat up."


    "Okay."


    "Have some meat."


    "Okay Thank you, thank you!" Xu Chuanchuan never thought that Murong Shi would serve food to her, and she couldn''t help but stand up in fright and ept it as politely as possible.


    Murong Shi remained unfazed by Xu Chuanchuan''s actions. After serving Xu Chuanchuan a piece of meat and retracting her chopsticks, she said, "Aunt Lian made this specifically for you. If you don''t try it, wouldn''t you be wasting her good intentions?"


    "Yes, yes, yes, I''ll eat" Xu Chuanchuan wiped the sweat on her forehead and ced the piece of braised trotter into her mouth.


    By the time the two of them had finished their meal, nearly half an hour had gone by already. However, despite their best efforts, there were still a lot of leftovers. While cleaning up, Xu Chuanchuan aggrievedly said, "I''m not trying to waste the food, but there is simply too much to eat."


    Murong Shi didn''t respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s excuse.


    "We could''ve finished everything if we had another person here." Trying to fill the silence, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "By the way, why don''t I see Linda in the office?"


    "She''s out doing some work at the tax bureau."


    "Should we leave these for her?"


    "No need. Her boyfriend works close to that ce. I think they''ll be having lunch together."


    "Oh. I''ll throw it away, then."


    There was nobody in the washroom. Xu Chuanchuan first ced the thermos buckets onto the washstand there. She then made her way to the pantry and found herself some detergent. When she returned to the washroom, she found a female colleague curiously inspecting the buckets on the washstand while muttering, "Who''s taking up so much space?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly moved the thermos buckets aside and said, "Sorry, it''s me. You can wash first."


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan, the female colleague said, "Oh, Little Xu. You brought your lunch as well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should exin herself.


    "Can you finish two whole buckets by yourself?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t want others to know that she had eaten lunch together with Murong Shi. After hesitating for a moment, she stammered, "I have a big appetite."


    Hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s answer, the female colleague eximed, "No matter how big your appetite is, you can''t possibly finish so much food, right? These are buckets we''re talking about."


    Xu Chuanchuan: ".."


    The sound of water sshing entered her ears, and Xu Chuanchuan noticed that her female colleague had started washing her hands. Diverting the topic, she asked, "Have you eaten?"


    "I did. I was just about to find a ce for an afternoon nap," the female colleague said as she shook the residue water off her hand. The next moment, she suddenly leaned into Xu Chuanchuan and said in a hushed tone, "I heard that Miss Murong has been looking for you a lot recently. Is she nning to give you a promotion?"


    Startled, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Impossible!"


    "She''s not? But you''re not part of management. If it''s not for a promotion, why would she look for you so frequently?"


    <em>Would you believe me if I told you that out of the three times she''s called me to her office, two times was to toy with me, and one time was to invite me to lunch?</em>


    Even Xu Chuanchuan found these situations to be unbelievable, so she decided not to tell the truth.


    "We''re only talking about work affairs," Xu Chuanchuan said. Avoiding her colleague''s gaze, she poured the detergent into one of the buckets, opened the tap, and started scrubbing away.


    However, the female colleague refused to let the matter rest as she continued, "Miss Murong must be very scary, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she heard these words. Holding down her conscience, she lied, "She''s not scary."


    The female colleague looked Xu Chuanchuan in the eye through the mirror and said, "Little Xu, aren''t you being too hypocritical?"


    "...How am I hypocritical?"


    "What are you afraid of? She''s long since left thepany with Linda, so you can say whatever you want. Nobody will snitch on you."


    <em>If Murong Shi is out, did I just dine with a ghost?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan adamantly refused to y along with her colleague. After suffering a loss once, she dared not criticize Murong Shi anymore. Not to mention, she had just enjoyed a meal from Murong Shi. She couldn''t possibly badmouth Murong Shi as soon as the meal was over, right?


    After washing out the foam in the soap bubbles in the bucket, Xu Chuanchuan mumbled, "I think Miss Murong is a good person."


    Snorting, the female colleague said, "Good? Who doesn''t know that she''s a She-Devil? Not only did she rece the cleaning staff as soon as she arrived, but she even fired three of the warehouse staff. She also made thepany rules and regtions stricter than thew. If I weren''t toozy to find a new job, I would''ve long since resigned. This woman is only relying on her parents to step over us. If not for her parents"


    <em>I don''t hear anything, I don''t hear anything. h, h, h. I don''t hear anything.</em> Xu Chuanchuan repeatedly hypnotized herself while hoping for her colleague to finish soon.


    When the noise entering her ears suddenly stopped, Xu Chuanchuan looked up in confusion.


    The first thing Xu Chuanchuan saw was her female colleague staring at the entrance with her mouth wide open and a look of horror on her face.


    Following her colleague''s gaze, Xu Chuanchuan looked to the entrance and gasped.


    Before anyone realized it, Murong Shi had appeared by the entrance and was looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s female colleague with unfazed eyes.


    After a moment, the female colleague finally snapped out of her daze and said in fear, "Miss Murong, I was wrong. I"


    "You don''t have to go to work after noon. Head to human resources and hand in your resignation," Murong Shi coldly interrupted.


    Hearing this, the female colleague''s face turned as white as a sheet of paper.


    However, Murong Shi no longer paid the woman any attention. Walking into the washroom, she ced a mug on the washstand and said to the dumbfounded Xu Chuanchuan, "Help me wash this while you''re at it, thanks."


    Even after Murong Shi had left the washroom, nobody in the washroom dared speak a word. Seemingly scared silly, the female colleague stood still without moving for a long time. And although Xu Chuanchuan wanted to console her colleague, as she didn''t know how to do so, she decided to pretend that she didn''t see anything and continued with her cleaning.

 Chapter 28: Pt.2

    Chapter 28: Pt.2


    "Come in."


    Xu Chuanchuan could hear the anger in Murong Shi''s voice even through the door. While holding the handle of the two thermos buckets in one hand and holding Murong Shi''s cleaned mug in the other hand, Xu Chuanchuan struggled for some time to open the door. After entering the office, she tentatively set down the items on Murong Shi''s desk.


    Lowering her head and avoiding eye contact with Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan timidly said, "If there''s nothing else, I''ll be taking my leave now."


    "Help me pour a ss of water. I want it at room temperature," Murong Shi said, her emotionless voice causing Xu Chuanchuan to get goosebumps.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that she couldn''t afford to provoke Murong Shi in the current circumstances. Otherwise, the consequences would be unimaginable.


    Gritting her teeth, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed the mug and turned to leave.


    "Where are you going?" Murong Shi called out.


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan turned around and asked, "Didn''t you ask me to get you water?"


    Murong Shi leaned back against her chair, her unraveled hair covering most of the red chair. Combined with her fair skin and glossy, red lips, she looked quite enchanting from Xu Chuanchuan''s perspective. However, when Xu Chuanchuan recalled the words Murong Shi said to her colleague, she couldn''t help but shudder and turn her head away.


    Pointing a finger in a particr direction, Murong Shizily said, "The water dispenser is over there. Don''t you see it?"


    The water dispenser in question sat between the aquarium and a potted nt, and it looked quite conspicuous in this room.


    Xu Chuanchuan walked over to the water dispenser, patted it, and asked, "Is this new?"


    Rubbing her temples, Murong Shi said, "It''s always been there."


    <em>Has it always been here? Why have I never noticed it?</em>


    <em>Okay, maybe it''s because I was always terrified whenever I came here before, so I never really got to take a good look at the room.</em>


    When handing the mug to Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently touched the other party''s cold fingertips. "Is the air conditioning too cold? Your body seems to be cold all the time."


    Murong Shi set the mug aside without taking a single sip. She then raised her head, looked at Xu Chuanchuan, and answered with a question, "Will you be going for your break after this?"


    Growing alert, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you have any other orders?"


    "Spare me a few minutes. Sit down and have a chat with me."


    "What do you want to talk about?" Xu Chuanchuan tensed up. "I think I''ll continue standing."


    Frowning in annoyance, Murong Shi said, "It''s tiresome for me to look up at you."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan pulled up a chair and sat down, her heart beating apprehensively.


    "Did you say anything about me just now?"


    <em>Sure enough, it''s nothing good.</em> Taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan answered slowly and clearly, "I just said that you were a good person."


    Narrowing her eyes, Murong Shi asked, "Really?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded solemnly.


    "Don''t you hold any grudge against me at all?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s right eye twitched slightly. Straightening her back, she firmly answered, "No!"


    The corners of Murong Shi''s mouth curled up sarcastically. Evidently, she did not believe Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    Clenching her fists nervously, Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders slumped down like a deted balloon as she said, "Alright, I admit that I am a little afraid of you, but I promise that I''ve never badmouthed you even once after that time."


    "Oh? That means you still have someints in your heart."


    "..." <em>Why is she such a difficult person?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was capable of writing lengthy novels, but she wasn''t good at speaking in real life. This was especially true when Murong Shi was her conversation partner. Xu Chuanchuan hated this situation, and she couldn''t help but scratch her head in agony. Just as she was agonizing on what she should say, she heard a soft sigh.


    Sitting upright, Murong Shi indifferently said, "That''s all from me. You may leave now."


    Xu Chuanchuan inwardly celebrated but dared not behave toocently. She then carefully stood up and pushed her chair back under the desk.


    Surreptitiously raising her head, Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi had her eyes drooped and looked to be in deep thought. Now that Murong Shi''s long and dense eyshes had hidden the emotions in her eyes, her whole person looked much gentler in Xu Chuanchuan''s opinion.


    Speaking of which, Murong Shi was only one year older than Xu Chuanchuan. Setting aside their personal grudges, Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi was a rtively good leader.


    Murong Mingkun was a technical person, and the thing he liked doing the most was entering his workshop and conducting research on machines. He wasn''t a person to put on airs, so he could get along with everyone in thepany. Unfortunately, he was a failure when it came to being a leader. Because of long years of neglect to thepany''s management, thepany''s staff had grownzy andcked enthusiasm. As a result, thepany''s work efficiency stagnated and declined over the years.


    Murong Shi, on the other hand, was much more suited to being a leader. However, she wasn''t without ws. The main problem with Murong Shi was that she was a little too overbearing. Once she decided to make certain changes, she would act on her decisions swiftly and ruthlessly. She never gave anyone a buffer period to adapt to these changes. Hence, how could thepany employees, who had long since gotten used to theirzy lifestyle under Murong Mingkun''s management, not resent her?


    A thoughting to her mind, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I wasn''t lying before. I really think you''ve done quite well in thepany."


    Upon hearing these words, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan skeptically.


    "...Although you are sometimes intimidating, that''s a type of authority. If you don''t have authority, how will you manage your underlings?" Licking her lips, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Previously, you even came to work despite having a fever. I really admire you for that."


    Murong Shi did not speak.


    "Have a good rest. I''ll take my leave now."


    The rest of Xu Chuanchuan''s day went by like a dream.


    When Xu Chuanchaun got off work and returned home, she turned on herputer out of habit and logged into her QQ messenger. Upon logging in, she noticed the avatar at the lower right corner was shing. She then moved her cursor over and clicked it.


    Ange: "Someone called you out on the forums. [Link]"


    The message was sent three hours ago. Xu Chuanchuan was still at work at the time, so she didn''t have the time to look at her phone.


    <em>Someone called me out?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was startled. Hurriedly, she clicked the link, and a pink webpage appeared on her screen. However, apart from the words "This page doesn''t exist," nothing else was on the screen.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I can''t open it. What is it?"


    Ange: "It''s fine now. The admin deleted the post."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What exactly happened?"


    Ange: "Someone called you out on the forums just now, saying that you opened a sub-ount to donate Deep-waters to yourself to raise your new book''s ranking."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What sub-ount? How can I possibly send Deep-waters to myself? I''m not an idiot."


    Ange: "Calm down, calm down. That person called you out without evidence, and everyone is speaking up for you. The post is deleted now, and the owner of the post also got banned."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Who''s the one who called me out?"


    Ange: "Although I don''t have any evidence, I think that it''s Fragrant Citrus."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Why is it her?"


    Ange: "Because your book is above hers right now. [Image]"


    The image Ange shared was a screenshot of jjwxc''s donation ranking list, and Xu Chuanchuan''s new book just so happened to be one rank higher than Fragrant Citrus''s cultivation novel.


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless.


    Ange: "But we don''t have any evidence, so there''s nothing we can do about it. Anyway, don''t pay it any mind. Just focus on your writing and nothing else."


    Xu Chuanchuan was still puzzled by the situation. Opening her reader group, she found that everyone in the group was talking about this topic right now.


    Does that bastard have nothing better to do? Why would they call someone out for no reason?


    Hugs, Lord. We''ll support you forever. @I Love Mtang.


    Lord should still be at work.


    jjwxc takes half from all donations. Who would be so foolish as to donate to themselves? Also, Lord doesn''t need such underhanded methods to get exposure.


    That''s right, that''s right! Darling Shi gives off an incredibly dominant aura, while Lord gives off the feeling of a bottom. How can they be the same person? I would rather believe that they''re a couple!


    Darling Shi, don''t cry. I''ll give you hugs~ Muah~ @Passerby Shi


    Xu Chuanchuan was even more confused after reading up to this point.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Did the person who called me out think that Passerby Shi is my sub-ount?"


    Ange: "That''s right. That person even shared screenshots of Passerby Shi''s reader profile and donation history. However, there still isn''t enough evidence."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew speechless once more.


    Although every author was a meister at creating multiple personalities, no matter how adept Xu Chuanchuan was at it, there was no way she could create a personality as twisted as Passerby Shi''s!


    Speak of the devil, a certain someone had finally grown annoyed at being tagged by the readers in the group and sought out Xu Chuanchuan through a private chat.


    Passerby Shi: "What are they talking about? I don''t understand a thing they''re saying."


    Truth be told, even Xu Chuanchuan didn''t quite understand the situation


    I Love Mtang: "Basically, someone called me out on the tform''s forum. After seeing you giving me so many Deep-waters, they think that you are my sub-ount. But everything''s fine now. The person who called me out couldn''t provide sufficient evidence. Maybe they did it because they found me to be an eyesore. Sorry for involving you in this mess."


    Passerby Shi: "Oh. Does this mean I shouldn''t give you donations in the future?"


    I Love Mtang: "This It''s up to you If you want to donate, then sure. If not, quietly reading my books is also a form of support to me. [Heart]"


    Passerby Shi: "Got it."


    One minuteter.


    The reader group exploded with activity once more.


    Ahhh!!! Eight Deep-waters!!! All hail Darling Shi!!!


    Heavens. Is Tycoon Shi angry? There, there, don''t be mad. I''ll give you headpats~


    Lord, look quickly! Your name and Darling Shi''s have fully taken over the front page''s banner! What a lovely sight! [Image][Image][Image]


    Xu Chuanchuan had already seen the banner herself.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan thought that the system had choked. When she refreshed the donation log and saw Passerby Shi giving her eight Deep-water Torpedoes in a row, she couldn''t help but start questioning life.


    I Love Mtang: "D-D-Did y-y-your finger slip again? Why did you send so many Deep-waters?!"


    Passerby Shi: "I''m clearing my ount."


    I Love Mtang: "Clearing your ount? What do you mean?"


    Passerby Shi: "This ount is unlucky. I either get cursed at or called out. I n to start a new ount."


    I Love Mtang: "Wouldn''t it be troublesome to start a new ount?"


    Xu Chuanchuan inwardly eximed that tycoons really were capricious. Not only did Passerby Shi not hesitate in throwing away so much money, but her reason for doing so was also


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that this incident was partly her fault. Hence, she hurriedly typed away at her keyboard in an attempt to appease this capricious tycoon''s mood.


    However, before Xu Chuanchuan could send her message


    Passerby Shi: "It''s troublesome, so I n to delete the app."


    I Love Mtang: "How will you read if you delete the app? The web version''s reading experience is terrible."


    Passerby Shi: "I''ll stop reading, then. How annoying."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."

 Chapter 29: Pt.1

    Chapter 29: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan realized that she had made a mistake from the beginning. She should never have taken the initiative to provoke Passerby Shi and have her join the reader group. When Xu Chuanchuan heard that Passerby Shi would delete her jjwxc app, although she had mixed feelings about it, she also didn''t know what she should say in this situation.


    Should she persuade Passerby Shi not to delete her application?


    The other party might not be willing to listen to her.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t in any position to do so, and she also couldn''t bring herself to speak up for fear of the other party misunderstanding her actions for a plot or some sort once more.


    After some hesitation, Xu Chuanchuan deleted all theforting words she had typed out before.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No matter what choice you make, thank you very much for your support throughout this period. [Rose][Fist cupping]"


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan''s message got through, the other party''s avatar had darkened already, indicating that she had gone offline.


    Thest time Xu Chuanchuan had tricked Passerby Shi with her "meat" essay, the other party had disappeared for several days. Back then, Xu Chuanchuan thought that her prank had angered Passerby Shi to the point of leaving. However, to her surprise, Passerby Shi had reappeared several dayster, exining that she was absent because of a business trip.


    This time, though, Xu Chuanchuan knew that Passerby Shi was unlikely to return.


    Reading novels was nothing but a pastime for Passerby Shi. If Passerby Shi felt that this pastime could no longer bring her enjoyment, it was only natural for her to seek other pastimes.


    Humans were truly strange creatures. Previously, Xu Chuanchuan had kept onining that Passerby Shi was a difficult person to deal with. Yet, now that the other party had left, Xu Chuanchuan started to miss her.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan felt a little disappointed, it wasn''t to the point of bing sad over the matter.


    <em>If she''s gone, then she''s gone. It''s just a reader. There will be many more new readers toe in the future.</em> Keeping a positive mindset was necessary for an author. Xu Chuanchuan needed to keep a positive mood to have the energy to keep on writing.


    One time, someone in the reader group brought up Passerby Shi.


    Lord, where did your Darling Shi go? @I Love Mtang


    To which Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I don''t know."


    Lord, you finally admitted that Darling Shi is yours! Confess! What rtionship do you have with her?


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Cough... She''s not my She''s just one of my readers. We really do not know each other in real life. Also, she already has a girlfriend, so it''s best not to talk nonsense in the future."


    However, it wouldn''t matter even if they spoke nonsense since Passerby Shi was no longer here to read it. Many days had gone by already since Passerby Shist logged into her QQ ount. There was even a possibility that this QQ ount was just a sub-ount. Now that Passerby Shi was no longer interested in reading novels, she would naturally have no need for her sub-ount anymore.


    After Xu Chuanchuan rified the situation, nobody else in the group continued joking about her rtionship with Passerby Shi.


    Passerby Shi was like the summer storm, appearing suddenly and disappearing suddenly. Xu Chuanchuan was a little unused to Passerby Shi''s disappearance initially, but she gradually epted the fact that this tsundere tycoon had left.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan''s uneventful days resumed. However, another incident urred on the day her new book began mization.


    The culprit was clearly someone''s sub-ount, as the person''s purchase history showed them buying all sorts of random books. And apart from giving her book point reductions, this person had no history of leaving anyments or reviews on any other author''s book. Judging by the reader''s ID, it should be an old ount that had been registered three or four years ago.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw the series of point reductions, raging blood had flowed to her head. Fortunately, she could apply to the admins to remove malicious point reductions. Her readers were also very warm-hearted and supportive of her, and they eagerly gave her point increases to offset the points she lost.


    After resolving the incident, Xu Chuanchuan went to Ange toin.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I don''t even know who I''ve offended."


    Ange: "I''m also puzzled by this situation. At first, I suspected that it was Citrus''s doing, but after checking that reader''s IP address, I found that it''spletely different from her IP. "


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m not a god-level author. I''ve also maintained a low profile and avoided trouble throughout my writing career. How did I even end up offending someone?"


    Ange: "Passerby Shi gave you eight consecutive Deep-watersst time, and she also gave you five consecutive Deep-waters the time before that. Everyone on the tform has seen those donations, and you call that low profile?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...She sent those of her own volition. I never told her to do it."


    Ange: "Tch, acting innocent after getting an advantage."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Whose side are you on? How can you say that about me? [Aggrieved]"


    Ange: "I''m kidding. I know you have nothing to do with her. By the way, I haven''t seen any signs of Passerby Shi recently. Is she busy IRL?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I don''t know."


    Ange: "Don''t you chat with her every day? How can you not know?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Who told you I chat with her every day?! I only talked to her a few times. Also, she said that she uninstalled jjwxc''s app, so I don''t think she''ll be reading web novels anymore."


    Ange: "Did she get tired of reading?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Maybe."


    Who could possibly see through the thoughts of a tycoon?


    A lot of personnel changes had taken ce in thepany recently. First, the unqualified employees were fired one after another. Next, thepany''s management was reshuffled and changed. Although Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t keen to gossip, she had still heard about the changes to thepany''s senior management positions.


    One example was the Human Resources Department''s manager. The man was found abusing his authority to ce his family members into idle positions in thepany under false pretenses. As a result, he had been switched to the Administration Department to serve as the "internal manager" there.


    Another example was the Business Department''s manager. He had been demoted into an ordinary sales staff because of hisck of contribution to thepany throughout the years. And because he was dissatisfied with his demotion, he resigned from thepany.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan heard that thepany had paid a big dime to hire a highlypetent business manager to take over the Business Department''s management. Thepany had also recruited many fresh graduates for the department, and these fresh graduates were young, confident, and brimming with fighting spirit.


    In just one week, Xu Chuanchuan could feel that the atmosphere in thepany had changed. In the past, whenever she passed by themon office area, what she saw were unproductive colleagueszily going about doing their work. However, ever since thepany reform, everyone started working busily and cautiously. Now, everyone didn''t even dare speak too loudly in thepany.


    Meanwhile, these were all Murong Shi''s doing.


    Sometimes, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be puzzled by Murong Shi. Murong Shi was only 26 years old this year, yet the decisions she had made thus far did not match her age at all. Her decisions were overly mature, decisive, and cruel.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan was a white-cor worker, she still found all of this incredible. She was only one year younger than Murong Shi, so why was there such a vast difference between them?


    It was pouring outside, the rain setting off the soft and slender figure of the woman quietly standing by the window. Looking at this scene, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the illusion that Murong Shi had a gentle side. Only, it was hidden under her strong and imposing outward appearance, making it difficult for others to notice it.


    The noise created by the rain covered both the noisy renovation happening upstairs and the sound of Xu Chuanchuan''s quiet footsteps.


    Rainstorms frequently urred during the summer. However, as Murong Shi had been on a busy streak during the past month, it''s been a while since she had the opportunity to admire a heavy rain like this in peace.


    Murong Shi liked rainy days. The rain would wash away the dust, making the air much cleaner.


    Murong Shi didn''t get any sleepst night, and her head was buzzing incessantly right now. Only the sound of the rain could soothe the agitation in her heart.


    Her mind blocked out all the noiseing from around her, and as she stood in this unupied corner, she recalled what her father had said to herst night in his study.


    "I''ve heard about the situation over there. You''ve done well, Little Shi. However, I think you''re too impatient.


    "While you mustn''t be soft-hearted when being a manager, you mustn''t be too strong-handed, either. You should do everything in moderation. I believe you understand this.


    "You''re still young, so it''s natural youck consideration for many things. If there is anything you don''t understand, feel free to ask me. Don''t try to bear everything by yourself."


    In the beginning, Murong Shi had indeed been acting rashly. She had been eager to free herself from Sun An''s influence, so she had resolutely abandoned the bright future her father had prepared for her and came to this unproductivepany. She wanted to prove to her father that she could achieve excellence even without relying on anyone through her efforts.


    However, sheter realized that she was sorely mistaken.


    Her parents were the ones who founded thispany, so no matter how well she managed it, she wouldn''t receive full credit for its sess.


    Moreover, she frequently found herself in a bind due to herck of management experience. And because of her growing annoyance with these problems, she started getting angry over even minor issues.


    After reforming thepany for a whole month, Murong Shi had no choice but to admit that she was too inexperienced. So, she decided to take her father''s advice.


    She had stiffened her rtionship with thepany employees during her time here. Now, everyone was afraid of her. Whenever an employee saw her, they would do their best to avoid her as if they had just seen a ghost. She couldn''t let this situation continue.


    Since she couldn''t be too strong-handed, she would take an approach that was a mix of softness and hardness.


    Some rainwater struck the windowsill and sshed onto her arm. Having made up her mind, Murong Shi closed the window tightly and turned around. When she saw Xu Chuanchuan, who was only standing ten meters away from her, she was slightly stunned.


    A trace of panic shed across Xu Chuanchuan''s face momentarily. She then smiled awkwardly and greeted, "Miss Murong."


    Murong Shi was surprised that someone had gotten so close to her without her notice. "Have you been standing there all this time?"


    Having difficulty keeping up her smile, Xu Chuanchuan stammered, "When I saw the window open, I came here thinking to close it. I didn''t think you would be standing here."


    Murong Shi had alsoe here to close the window. But when she walked up to the window and saw the rainy scenery outside, she ended up spending a little more time than she expected standing here.


    Sizing up Xu Chuanchuan with an indifferent face, Murong Shi snickered and said, "You''re the only one who''s so good-natured. Everyone else is treating this as none of their business."


    "Are youplimenting me?"


    "Can you not tell?"


    "..." For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan thought that the sun must''ve risen from the west today.


    Beckoning to Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Come here."


    Xu Chuanchuan walked over in confusion. Keeping an appropriate distance from Murong Shi, she asked, "Do you have any orders, Miss Murong?"


    Frowning, Murong Shi said, "Drop the ''Miss.'' You can call me Murong."


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless. She then quickly said, "But it''s to show respect."


    "It sounds twisted to me. Change it."


    <em>Fine, fine, you''re the boss.</em>


    Tugging at the hems of her shirt ufortably, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I can''t leave my post for too long."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "Let me ask you a question."


    "...Please ask away."


    "Looking at your character, you must get along quite well with your colleagues, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes wandered for a moment before she answered, "It''s okay. I haven''t gotten into any conflicts at work so far."


    "How do you usually maintain your rtionships?"


    Laughing dryly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "We normally just head back to our respective homes after work, and we rarely contact each other. In my case, I''m single. In the others'' case, they have families waiting for them at home. Even if we do have a get-together, we don''t really have much inmon to talk about."


    Murong Shi fell into deep thought for a moment. She then asked, "If thepany hosts a party, do you think that the rtionship between everyone will grow stronger?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked for a moment before answering, "Maybe."


    "I see. You can go back now."

 Chapter 29: Pt.2

    Chapter 29: Pt.2


    Three dayster, Friday.


    Before the end of the day, Linda sent an email notifying all staff in thepany of a dinner party after work. Apart from those with special circumstances, nobody was allowed to be absent from this dinner.


    When this notice came out, the entire office building was abuzz.


    I''ve worked in thispany for five years now and I''ve never had a dinner party before. What''s the situation?


    That''s right. Even on New Year''s Eve, thepany just gave us some money to celebrate on our own. Did the boss suddenly find his conscience and decided to provide us with some welfare?


    I heard it''s Miss Murong''s idea.


    She''s going as well? If that''s the case, forget it. I''m not going.


    No absentees aside from those with special reasons. Are you nning to resign?


    Thepany hosting a dinner party was supposed to be a good thing, but when everyone heard Murong Shi''s name, they immediately lost interest. Everyone was afraid of Murong Shi, so the atmosphere at thepany''s first dinner party was incredibly awkward. Nobody dared speak nonsense inside therge room.


    That was until Murong Shi stood up and said, "Everyone, let''s have a toast."


    The 50 people within the room stood up one after another.


    Because Murong Shi needed to drive afterward, she had filled her cup with Sprite instead of alcohol. Raising her ss, she slowly said, "I would like to thank everyone for your unfailingmitment to thepany. We will be working together from now on. So long as thepany''s performance increases by five points, I''ll give everyone a raise. How about it?"


    Everyone: "..."


    Not finding the silence embarrassing whatsoever, Murong Shi smiled and said, "Do you not want a raise?"


    "We do!" Someone shouted.


    With someone taking the lead, the second person quickly followed and said, "We do! What else are we working for if not for money?"


    The third person said, "Will we really get a raise?"


    Turning toward the direction of the third voice, Murong Shi said in a firm tone, "I, Murong, always do what I say. I''ll have Linda draw up a document once I return."


    "!! Miss Murong, here''s to you!" the third person said as he raised his ss.


    Murong Shi responded with a polite smile. She then swept her gaze across the room and continued, "Let''s toast, everyone. Those who can drink alcohol should drink up. Those who cannot drink alcohol can drink other beverages."


    Money truly was a wonderful thing. With just a few words, Murong Shi had changed the atmosphere in the room, and sounds of clinking sses and cheering echoed throughout the room repeatedly.


    Murong Shi knew that her employees wouldn''t be able to let loose of themselves if she remained, so she left the party shortly after it started.


    Now that their boss had left, Xu Chuanchuan started growing restless in her seat. She disliked lively scenes like this, and she wanted nothing more than to return and write her book right now. Hence, she said to Chen Lina, who sat beside her, "You guys have fun. I''ll head back first."


    Grabbing onto Xu Chuanchuan''s arm, Chen Lina asked, "There''s no work tomorrow, so what''s the hurry? Do you have a man waiting for you at home?"


    Blushing, Xu Chuanchuan denied, "Nonsense. I have something to do."


    "Alright, alright. Be careful on your way home."


    "Bye-bye."


    After sneaking out of the room, Xu Chuanchuan breathed out a sigh of relief. She hade to the restaurant in a colleague''s car, so her bicycle wasn''t with her right now. So, she had no choice but to look for a bike share.[1]


    There was none nearby, so she made her way to a more open area. On her way, she suddenly saw a familiar car, and she stopped dead in her tracks.


    The person inside the car also noticed her.


    After staring at each other for a few seconds, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and nodded at the person inside the car as a form of greeting. Just when she was about to continue on her way, Murong Shi drove slowly towards her and stopped beside her.


    The car window rolled down, revealing Murong Shi''s face, the dim street lights adding a hint of softness to her face. Once the barrier separating them disappeared, Murong Shi asked, "You''re leaving?"


    The fee for the dinner party was calcted based on the number of attendants, so anyone leaving ahead of time meant a waste of food and money. Anxiously, Xu Chuanchuan exined, "Yes. I have something I need to go home and deal with immediately."


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not look Murong Shi in the eye. When she lowered her head, she heard Murong Shi asking, "Do you need me to drop you off?"


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Chuanchuan lifted her head and looked at Murong Shi. After verifying that Murong Shi wasn''t being polite or joking, she couldn''t help but be bewildered. Hurriedly, she said, "No need, no need. I"


    "Weren''t you in a hurry to go back? Your ce is on the way, anyway."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even get the opportunity to voice her refusal. After hearing Murong Shi''s words, she obediently got in the car.


    This was Xu Chuanchuan''s second time riding Murong Shi''s car, yet she still wasn''t quite used to it. While sitting in the passenger''s seat, she tensed up her whole body and dared not move her arms and legs around. She also centered her eyes straight ahead.


    The road leading to the main street was quite narrow, making it difficult for a car to maneuver through it. So, Murong Shi''s car had to hit the brakes frequently, and the constant elerations and decelerations caused Xu Chuanchuan to feel suffocated and nauseous.


    While paying attention to the sides of her car, Murong Shi noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s state and asked, "Are you carsick?"


    Forcing a smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "A little."


    Sending Xu Chuanchuan another nce, Murong Shi asked, "Why didn''t you get carsick thest time?"


    <em>I was dead nervousst time, so where would I find the time to care whether I was carsick or not?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan made up an exnation and said, "I ate a piece of pork belly just now. The grease is probably getting to me."


    "Have you ever driven a car before?"


    "I have. I used to drive my father''s car back when I was still living with my parents."


    While avoiding the pedestrians and cars around her, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "You drive once we''re out of this side street."


    "Huh?"


    Xu Chuanchuan thought Murong Shi was merely joking. She never expected Murong Shi to bring the topic up again once they arrived at the junction beside the main road.


    Hesitantly, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you really letting me drive?"


    "It''ll take at least 20 minutes to get to your ce. Can you endure it if I drive?"


    <em>Since when did she be so considerate?</em> Xu Chuanchuan wondered.


    "If you end up throwing up in my car, you''ll have to pay for the cleaning."


    "..."<em> Fine, I must''ve been overthinking things.</em>


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan switched seats with Murong Shi.


    Xu Chuanchuan would be lying if she said she wasn''t nervous about driving such an expensive car, so she drove very slowly.


    However, Murong Shi didn''t let Xu Chuanchuan have her way for long as she nonchntly said, "The traffic police is going to stop us at this rate."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to elerate slightly.


    Murong Shi sat slightly slumped, and she appeared exhausted. The dark circles under her eyes were so apparent that even makeup could not cover them.


    In a soft tone, Xu Chuanchuan suggested, "Why don''t you take a short nap?"


    Murong Shi remained indifferent to XuChuanchuan''s suggestion as she listlessly said, "No need. I''m afraid you''ll drive the car into a ditch."


    "..." Embarrassed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "My driving skills aren''t <em>that </em>bad."


    "Just don''t disturb me."


    "Okay."


    The next several minutes went by in silence.


    "Why are you in such a hurry to go home?"


    It took a moment for Xu Chuanchuan to realize that Murong Shi was asking her a question. After pondering for a moment, she found that she couldn''te up with a reasonable excuse, so she ambiguously said, "Some personal matters."


    Murong Shi didn''t probe further into the matter. Rubbing her temples, she said, "I''ve been suffering from insomnia the past few days."


    "You must''ve overworked yourself."


    "Mhm." Murong Shi vaguely responded with a hum. Her phoenix eyes narrowed, she casually asked, "How do you usually deal with insomnia?"


    Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi had been acting strange recently. The other party had been asking her a lot of questions unrted to work


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could think deeply into Murong Shi''s question, she subconsciously blurted out, "I usually listen to songs or read novels."


    Several emotions shed across Murong Shi''s tired eyes briefly. Maintaining an indifferent expression, she asked, "Listening to music will only get me more excited. Also, you read novels?"


    "...I read them asionally when I have free time, but I haven''t read a novel for a long time already."


    When bringing up the topic of novels, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently started thinking of Passerby Shi''s identity again. Unable to help her curiosity, she tried sneaking a peek at Murong Shi''s reaction through the rear-view mirror. To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, what entered her sight was a pair of eyes filled with inexplicable emotions staring back at her. Immediately, her heart tensed up anxiously.


    In an indifferent voice, Murong Shi said, "Keep your eyes on the road."


    "..." <em>It''s your fault for asking so many questions!</em>


    While waiting for the water to boil, she threw herself onto her soft bed and decided to chat with Ange. Before she could do so, her phone vibrated, indicating that she had received a new message. When she opened up the message, she couldn''t help but doubt her eyes for a moment.


    Passerby Shi: "I just found out that you got mized. I originally wanted to send some Deep-waters, but my ount is currently empty. I''ll make up for it some other day."


    Xu Chuanchuan rubbed her eyes and looked at her phone again. However, the message remained on the screen. Hurriedly, she typed out a reply.


    I Love Mtang: "Didn''t you delete your reading app already?"


    Passerby Shi: "I deleted it on my phone, but my iPad still has it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: ...


    I Love Mtang: "Are you not angry anymore?"


    Passerby Shi: "Why would I be angry?"


    It would seem that a certain someone was ying amnesia with her. Hence, Xu Chuanchuan kindly took a screenshot of their previous conversation and shared it with the other party.


    Passerby Shi: "[Bye-bye]"


    I Love Mtang: "Wait, wait, wait! Wee back~"


    Passerby Shi: "I just decided to take a look out of boredom."


    I Love Mtang: "Yes, yes, yes. Whatever you say."


    Passerby Shi: "I''ve caught up now. I''m bored."


    Xu Chuanchuan: ...


    I Love Mtang: "You have a girlfriend to apany you, so how can you still be bored?"


    Passerby Shi: "We broke up."


    <em>Pfft</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but brainstorm a little at this message. <em>So, this capricious tycoon decided to use novels to fill the void in her broken heart?</em>


    <em>If that''s the case I shouldn''t mess with her.</em>


    I Love Mtang: "*Headpat* There, there, don''t be sad. Time will heal everything. There are still plenty of single girls in the group. Many of them like you."


    Passerby Shi: "Aren''t you single as well?"


    <em>What is she trying to get at?</em> Xu Chuanchuan suddenly noticed that something was amiss. Sitting upright, she quickly typed out a reply.


    I Love Mtang: "I forgot to tell you this, but I''m straight. So, I''ll never get into a rtionship with my readers!"


    Xu Chuanchuan had been depressed for a long time after getting falsely used previously.


    Passerby Shi: "You think I want to court you?"


    Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t narcissistic to such an extent.


    I Love Mtang: "I''m just afraid you''ll misunderstand."


    Passerby Shi: "Hehe."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>To hell with your "hehe."</em>


    TL Notes:


    [1]bike share: A bicycle-sharing system in which bicycles are made avable for shared use to individuals on a short-term basis for a price or free.


    Wikipedia link:


    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicycle-sharing_system

 Chapter 30: Pt.1

    Chapter 30: Pt.1


    While slurping on some pickled cabbage and beef noodles, Xu Chuanchuan browsed her reader group using her phone.


    Good evening, everyone.


    Huh? Isn''t this Darling Shi? You finally reappeared after going missing for so long! Muah (3)


    Good evening, Darling Shi~


    Tycoon Shi, Lord says you have a girlfriend. Is that true?


    It was no wonder why the group was so lively. It turned out that a certain someone had appeared in the chat. When Xu Chuanchuan saw the word "girlfriend," though, she couldn''t help but have a bad feeling.


    The next second, Passerby Shi replied: "We broke up."


    Huh? Did you break up? I''m sorry. Let me give you a big hug.


    Out with the old, in with the new. Don''t cry, Darling Shi.


    I got dumped too


    Darling Shi, if youck a girlfriend, you can consider me! [Twirl]


    Xu Chuanchuan wondered why Passerby Shi could face a break-up so casually. It was as if the break-up wasn''t a heartbreaking matter to her at all.


    Murong Shi: Because I never had a girlfriend.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t keep up with the rapidly appearing messages at all. After giving the matter some thought, she sent a private message to Passerby Shi.


    I Love Mtang: "You can chat with the girls in the group if you''re unhappy. Look at how enthusiastic they are."


    Passerby Shi: "I never said I was unhappy."


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    <em>I wonder if she''s pretending or really doesn''t care.</em>


    Just when Xu Chuanchuan was agonizing over what to type, her screen changed, and her phone started ringingXu Xiangxiang had sent her a video call request.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly epted the call.


    "I knew you would still be awake."


    "Get to the point. What do you want?"


    Snorting, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Can''t I find you just to chat? Why are you eating instant noodles sote at night?"


    In a nonchnt tone, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "There''s nothing else to eat at home."


    "It''s bad for you to eat instant noodles frequently. My roommate visited Guangxi recently and brought back some local specialties. I''ll bring them to you tomorrow."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You''reing tomorrow?"


    "Yes. You look like you hate it."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t exactly mind her little sister staying over. The only problem she had was that she had to write her novel using her phone during Xu Xiangxiang''s stay and doing so hurt her fingers a lot.


    After giving the matter some thought, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Suit yourself. What time are youing over?"


    "Around noon."


    Xu Xiangxiang finally didn''te empty-handed this time. Handing a bag filled with local specialties from Guangxi to Xu Chuanchuan, she said, "Snail noodles[1]. They say it''s good, but I don''t have a ce to cook it."


    Shrugging, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I don''t have anywhere to cook, either."


    "Oh, I forgot that you don''t even have a pot. Why don''t we go buy one now?"


    Tapping her little sister''s head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Buying a pot just for a bag of noodles? How wasteful are you?"


    Instead of getting angry, Xu Xiangxiang smiled and said, "It just rained this morning, so it''s cool outside. Why don''t we head to the supermarket to buy some things?"


    Putting on a false smile, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "So, is this your real goal?"


    Xu Xiangxiang lowered her head and pretended to be shy as she said, "It''s been a while since I went shopping."


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan caved into her little sister''s pleading. After changing her clothes, she brought Xu Xiangxiang out for lunch first before heading to the supermarket.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t interested in shopping, so she simply helped Xu Xiangxiang carry her handbag and stood aside. "Take your time."


    Xu Xiangxiang didn''t bother with her elder sister this time. Instead, she walked into a jewelry store and picked out a few head ornaments, earrings, and nes.


    When it was time to pay, Xu Chuanchuan was naturally the one to foot the bill. While watching the store clerk ce a bunch of items into the bag, Xu Chuanchuan looked to her little sister and asked in confusion, "Xu Xiangxiang, are you doing wholesale? What would you need all these things for?"


    "They look nice. They''re also very cheap. Sis, stop being so stingy."


    Xu Chuanchuan rolled her eyes at her little sister.


    After shopping in the small jewelry store, Xu Xiangxiang skipped and hopped into a hat store. After trying on hats for a long time, she eventually settled on a red sun hat, an imitation navy cap, and a nurse''s cap. She then went on to negotiate prices with the shopkeeper.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan walked over, tapped her little sister on the shoulder, and asked, "Don''t tell me you want to buy all three?"


    Xu Xiangxiang blinked and said, "Don''t you think these three hats look unique? Not to mention, they''re cheaper than those sold online. The owner even agreed to a 20% discount."


    Frowning, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What exactly are you doing buying all these strange things?"


    Before Xu Xiangxiang could reply, the shopkeeper interjected, "Isn''t it for a uniform?"


    "A uniform?" Xu Chuanchuan raised an eyebrow at Xu Xiangxiang.


    Several emotions shed across Xu Xiangxiang''s face briefly before she stammered, "Yes, it''s for a uniform. Our department is having a uniform party, and I signed up for it."


    Xu Chuanchuan narrowed her eyes at Xu Xiangxiang''s reply. She then said, "I can understand if you''re only buying one, but do you think I''ll believe it if you buy so many at once? If you don''t be honest, I won''t buy them for you."


    "If you won''t buy them for me, I''ll buy them myself," Xu Xiangxiang said as she pulled out her wallet to pay.


    Looking at her little skeptically, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What are you plotting?"


    Widening her eyes innocently, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I''m not plotting anything. I already told you I''m attending a party, yet you still don''t believe me."


    "You''re going to wear three hats to one party?"


    "The partysts three days. I''ll wear one each day," Xu Xiangxiang said. She then leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s left ear and said, "To tell you the truth, this is a party organized by students. I heard many handsome men would be attending, so I n to pick up a guy for myself."


    Xu Chuanchuan was bbergasted as she stared at her little sister.


    The next moment, Xu Xiangxiang ced a straw hat onto Xu Chuanchuan''s head andughed, saying, "Sis, this hat fits you perfectly! You look so silly in it! Isn''t that right, shopkeeper?"


    The shopkeeper had quite the sweet mouth as he said, "A good-looking person will look good in whatever they wear. But mostly only older people like this type of hat."


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly removed the straw hat and red at Xu Xiangxiang.


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang giggled and started helping Xu Chuanchuan straighten up her hair.


    After Xu Chuanchuan returned the straw hat to the shopkeeper, a third person''s hand suddenly reached out and grabbed it. This person then began speaking a bunch of words she couldn''t understand.


    "Lady, do you want to buy it? It''s 15 yuan each." The shopkeeper''s attention immediately shifted to the person standing behind Xu Chuanchuan.


    The straw hat entered this new arrival''s hand in the blink of an eye. This new arrival then spoke in a heavily entedmonnguage, "Fifteen? That''s too expensive. These things only sell for five yuan each in my hometown."


    The shopkeeper shook his head and said, "Five is impossible. I won''t even get back my cost."


    Realizing that they were in the way, Xu Chuanchuan dragged Xu Xiangxiang aside. When she was turning around, though, she saw the face of the person behind her, and she couldn''t help but be stunned. "Auntie?"


    "Oh, prettydy! It''s you!"


    Xu Chuanchuan never imagined she woulde across Aunt Lian here. "Auntie, you can just call me Little Xu. Are you here to buy a hat?"


    Holding up the straw hat in her hand, Aunt Lian smiled and said, "Yes. This kind of hat is verymon in the countryside. I didn''t think I would find it here as well. It''s just that it''s a little more expensive here."


    The shopkeeper hurriedly corrected, "Fifteen isn''t expensive."


    "I''ll give you ten, deal?"


    "I can''t sell it for ten."


    Pushing the hat back to the shopkeeper, Aunt Lian said, "Forget it, then. I''ll go to another store."


    The shopkeeper panicked and hurriedly said, "Fine, fine, fine. I''ll give it to you for 13."


    "Ten. Not a cent more."


    "Fine, fine, fine. Take it, take it."


    Aunt Lian revealed a triumphant look and pulled out a bundle of folded notes from her pocket. After handing the shopkeeper a ten yuan bill, she wore the straw hat and said, "This makes things easier. I won''t have to hold an umbre when shopping for groceriester."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be dumbfounded when she saw Aunt Lian''s negotiation. She then smiled and asked, "Did youe out to shop alone?"


    After stuffing her money back into her pocket, Aunt Lian exined, "I didn''te alone. Little Shi dropped me off, but she''s at the bank handling some matters right now. I was heading to the market, and I just happened to walk by and saw you two. You two sure bought a lot of things."


    Pointing at Xu Xiangxiang, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Everything''s hers."


    In a pleased tone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Alright, alright, I won''t buy any more stuff. Sis, let''s go home."


    Turning to Aunt Lian, Xu Chuanchuan said, "We''ll be leaving now."


    "Okay. I''m going this way."


    Seeing the direction Aunt Lian pointed at, Xu Chuanchuan said, "We seem to be going in opposite directions, so I guess this is goodbye, Auntie. Oh, by the way, your cooking is delicious."


    "It''s delicious, is it? Then, next time, I''ll"


    "No, no, no! No need! There are a lot of busybodies in thepany. I''m already satisfied after getting a taste. Thank you, Auntie."


    "It''s me who should be thanking you. Alright, I''ll stop talking. Goodbye."


    While the two sisters were making their way to the exit, Xu Xiangxiang suddenly asked, "Is she the olddy who asked to borrow your phonest time?"


    "Mhm." Xu Chuanchuan responded absent-mindedly. Inwardly, she thought to herself, <em>Murong Shi came to visit the bank. Is there a bank near here?</em>


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan had this thought, she immediately came across an eye-catching signboard with the words "Bank of China" written on it.


    In the meantime, Xu Xiangxiang dragged Xu Chuanchuan toward the bank''s direction while pointing at a certain location and saying, "It''s so hot. Let''s get a cup of milk tea."


    While passing by the bank entrance, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from taking a look through the transparent ss door. There were many people visiting the bank since it was the weekend, so she failed to find Murong Shi''s figure even after scanning the crowd.


    <em>Strange. Why must I look for her?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan retracted her gaze and suppressed the strange feeling in her heart. All of a sudden, Xu Xiangxiang fiercely shook her shoulder and said, "Sis, look! Doesn''t that car look like your boss''s daughter''s?"


    TL Notes:


    [1]snail noodles: also known as Luosifen. The dish consists of rice noodles boiled and served in a soup. The stock that forms the soup is made by stewing river snails and pork bones for several hours with ck cardamom, fennel seed, dried tangerine peel, cassia bark, cloves, white pepper, bay leaf, licorice root, sand ginger, and star anise. It usually does not contain snail meat, but it is instead served with pickled bamboo shoots, pickled green beans, shredded wood ear, fu zhu, fresh green vegetables, peanuts, and chili oil added to the soup.


    Wikipedia link:


    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luosifen

 Chapter 30: Pt.2

    Chapter 30: Pt.2


    "Sis, look! Doesn''t that car look like your boss''s daughter''s?


    Xu Xiangxiang always liked to y pranks, so Xu Chuanchuan initially didn''t think much of her little sister''s words. However, when she heard the words "boss''s daughter," she instinctively snapped her head toward the direction Xu Xiangxiang was looking at.


    What entered Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes was a ck Maserati Quattroporte parked under a tree. Drops of rainwater covered the front of the car, and the sunlight reflecting off the car was a little blinding. When Xu Chuanchuan lowered her gaze to avoid the re, she inadvertently spotted the familiar number te, and her pupils immediately shrank.


    <em>That doesn''t just </em>look <em>like her car! That </em>is <em>her car!</em>


    <em>In that case, does this mean she''s inside the bank?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan sneakily turned her gaze back to the ss door. Coincidentally, someone had just opened the door from the inside, and two pairs of eyes inadvertently met with each other.


    Xu Chuanchuan put away the surprise on her face and greeted, "Miss Murong"


    However, as soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, Xu Xiangxiang immediately overshadowed her voice with an exmation, "Wow! What a beauty!"


    Pinching Xu Xiangxiang''s arm, Xu Chuanchuan said in a suppressed voice, "Be more reserved for god''s sake! She''s my boss''s daughter!"


    "I know. She''s Miss Murong, right? Don''t you think she''s beautiful?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Struggling free from her elder sister''s hold, Xu Xiangxiang approached Murong Shi and said, "What a coincidence meeting you here."


    Murong Shi shifted her gaze away from Xu Chuanchuan''s face and looked at Xu Xiangxiang. "Yes, what a coincidence."


    "Oh, right, has my sister properly thanked you yet?"


    "Thank me for what?"


    "You gave me a ridest time, so I naturally have to thank you for that properly. If it weren''t sote that night, I would''ve treated you to a meal."


    Sending a nce to Xu Chuanchuan, who was wearing an embarrassed expression, Murong Shi smirked and said, "Your sister already treated me to her beloved mtang."


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes widened at Murong Shi''s words. "She treated you to mtang?! Heavens, I''m so sorry! My sister has always been a stingy person."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bear to listen to her little sister prattling on for any longer. After stomping the ground in anger, she strode over and said, "Xu Xiangxiang! Don''t go overboard! How am I stingy?!"


    "It''s not your sister''s fault. It was me who wanted to eat it," Murong Shi said, intrigued by the conversation. Noticing the several bags Xu Xiangxiang was holding, Murong Shi asked, "Have you two been shopping?"


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes curved up in delight at Murong Shi''s question. She then said, "We just finished and were about to get some milk tea. Do you like milk tea? Why don''t I treat you to a cup?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched when she heard Xu Xiangxiang''s words. "You don''t seem to be any more generous than I am."


    In a righteous tone, Xu Xiangxiang responded, "Our situations are different. I haven''t started working yet, so I can only afford milk tea."


    Xu Chuanchuan had no words to counter. So, she carefully turned to look at Murong Shi''s reaction. In her opinion, there was no way Murong Shi would agree to Xu Xiangxiang''s offer.


    However, contrary to Xu Chuanchuan''s expectations, Murong Shi smiled and said, "Sure."


    "The store''s just in front! Let''s walk there!" Xu Xiangxiang said excitedly.


    "Mhm."


    With Xu Xiangxiang holding onto her left arm tightly, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly found that she had lost ownership of her legs as they mechanically moved forward against her wishes. And with Murong Shi standing to her right and shading her from the sun, she felt even more embarrassed by this situation.


    The inside of the milk tea store was properly air-conditioned, so Xu Chuanchuan''s tense emotions were able to get some relief.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang grabbed a menu and handed it to Murong Shi. "You order first."


    Murong Shi briefly nced at the menu before answering, "I want a cup of original milk tea with less sugar and ice."


    Xu Xiangxiang was surprised by Murong Shi''s order. "You ordered the cheapest one I have more than enough pocket money to spend, so you can order anything you want."


    Shaking her head, Murong Shi said, "I won''t be drinking it. I''m ordering it for someone else. She''s quite old, so she might not be used to drinking such sweet drinks. It''s fine so long as it''s cooling."


    In a subdued voice, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you buying it for Aunt Lian?"


    "How did you know?" Murong Shi was briefly stunned.


    Awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "We met her in the supermarket just now."


    Murong Shi quickly understood the gist of the situation. She then said, "Your turn to order. I''ll pay."


    Hearing this, Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly refused Murong Shi''s offer, saying, "No, no, that won''t do. I already said I''d be treating you."


    "You can do that after you get a job, little girl," Murong Shi said, utilizing her height advantage to put pressure on Xu Xiangxiang effortlessly.


    The two Xu sisters exchanged looks with each other.


    "Sis"


    "Just listen to her," Xu Chuanchuan said, holding her forehead.


    Competing with one''s superior to foot the bill was equivalent topeting with one''s superior for the limelight. Xu Chuanchuan naturally wouldn''t dare do such a thing.


    After the two sisters decided on their orders, Murong Shi paid the bill.


    When they got their orders and took a seat, Murong Shi quietly observed the two sisters, who looked identical to each other, sitting across the table. Suddenly, shemented, "You two havepletely different personalities."


    After downing half of her milk tea in one big sip, Xu Xiangxiang raised her eyebrows and pridefully said, "Everyone says that I''m cute and lively while my big sis looks a little dumb."


    Xu Chuanchuan lightly stomped on Xu Xiangxiang''s foot under the table.


    In response to the attack, Xu Xiangxiang discontentedly muttered, "But it''s true."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi mused over Xu Xiangxiang''s words and said, "I think you''re right. You are indeed cuter than your sister."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Xiangxiang had grown up being spoiled, so she was always tactless with her words. While holding onto her cup of milk tea with both hands, she leaned forward, stared at Murong Shi''s face, and said, "You''re really beautiful. You''re much more beautiful than the top beauty of my department."


    Pleased with those words, Murong Shi said, "Thank you."


    "Is my sister dull at work as well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Why must you involve me in the conversation?</em>


    Murong Shi briefly swept her gaze across Xu Chuanchuan''s face before saying, "Basically. Though, she''s sometimes quite bold as well." Such as badmouthing her superior.


    Xu Xiangxiang was skeptical about Murong Shi''s words. "My sister? Bold? Impossible! She can''t even bring herself to speak whenever the teacher calls on her to answer a question!"


    Gritting her teeth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Xu Xiangxiang, that''s enough from you."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi shook the unopened cup of milk tea in her hand as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan meaningfully.


    Patting Xu Chuanchuan on the back, Xu Xiangxiang said, "There''s a KFC across the street. Sis, let''s buy some chicken wings afterward."


    Coldly, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "Buy it yourself if you want to eat it."


    "Tch, you think I can''t afford it?" Xu Xiangxiang said, chewing her straw. Suddenly, a gleam shed in her eyes as she said, "Miss Murong, let me tell you something funny."


    Maintaining herposure, Murong Shi said, "Go on."


    Ignoring the warning signals her elder sister was giving her, Xu Xiangxiang delightfully said, "Apart from being stingy, my sister is also a glutton. Thest time she went to KFC, she ordered ten chicken wings and finished everything by herself. Afterward, she went to the toilet, leaving half a cup of Coke on her table. When she returned, she found that a fierce woman had mistakenly grabbed her Coke and sshed it onto a scoundrel. She was so heartbroken over the matter that she even had asked the woman forpensation. How embarrassing is that? She evenined about this on her social media, saying that"


    "Xu Xiangxiang!" Xu Chuanchuan yelled, her face turning bright red. Right now, she wanted nothing more than to dig a hole and bury herself in it.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was burying her head into the table, she heard Murong Shi casually saying, "I know about this."


    Surprised, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Did you see her social media as well?"


    Looking at a certain someone''s forehead oozing cold sweat, Murong Shi smiled and said, "Because I am the fierce woman you mentioned."


    Xu Xiangxiang: "..."


    After parting ways with Murong Shi and returning home, Xu Chuanchuan gave Xu Xiangxiang a thorough scolding. "Can you not spout nonsense in the future? She''s my superior! Now that you''ve badmouthed me in front of her, how am I supposed to keep my head up in front of her?"


    Aggrievedly, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Aren''t you exaggerating things? I think Miss Murong is a nice person."


    Infuriated, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Go back to your school now. I don''t want to see you anymore."


    "I don''t want to! My dorm''s air conditioning is broken, and nobody does repairs on the weekend. I want to stay at your ce for two more days."


    Later on, Xu Xiangxiang, for some unknown reason, started putting on makeup and trying on the various essories she bought. She even had Xu Chuanchuan help appraise her outfit.


    With her thoughts interrupted one time after another, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t concentrate on writing at all. Giving her little sister''s waist a tight pinch, she threatened, "Keep on tormenting me, then."


    Although Xu Xiangxiang grimaced in pain, she still shoved the camera she held into Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and said, "Help me take some pictures."


    By the time Xu Xiangxiang was satisfied and decided to stop tormenting her elder sister, it was already ten in the evening. While Xu Xiangxiang made her way to the bathroom to remove her makeup, Xu Chuanchuan threw her exhausted body onto the bed.


    At this time, the phone in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand suddenly vibrated, and she feebly took a look at it.


    Passerby Shi: "Why did you send me a red packet?"


    I Love Mtang: "I sent it to a random reader, and you just happened to receive it. It''s just a small token of appreciation. I hope you don''t dislike it."


    Passerby Shi: "This app is terrible. I''ve been trying to top-up for the entire day now, yet I still haven''t seeded."


    I Love Mtang: "This is the bad part about jjwxc. Its server is garbage, and it would choke frequently."


    After giving the matter some more thought, Xu Chuanchuan added a follow-up message.


    I Love Mtang: "You don''t need to send me Deep-waters every time. You can also give me point additions and leavements like everyone else. [Covers face]"


    Passerby Shi: "Too troublesome. I can''t be bothered to type."


    Xu Chuanchuan: What are you doing now, then?


    I Love Mtang: "Actually Compared to donations, I''m more concerned aboutments. What I''m trying to say is that, apart from having a rtionship based on money, we can talk about the book as well. You''ve given me so many Deep-waters thus far, and I am grateful for that, so I want to hear about your thoughts on my novel. [Shy]"


    Passerby Shi: "I''m not familiar with you, so I can''t make an objective evaluation."


    Xu Chuanchuan: Didn''t you diss me in the group calling me dumb and stupid?!


    I Love Mtang: "What about the book?"


    Passerby Shi: "Do you really want me to say it?"


    I Love Mtang: "Mhm!"


    Passerby Shi: "I have a lot of opinions. I don''t think I can finish even after three days and nights."


    I Love Mtang: "*Cough* Is my writing that bad?"


    Passerby Shi: "Dou Xiaoye is 160, while her wife is 178. In a situation where Dou Xiaoye doesn''t wear any heels, don''t you think it''ll look very awkward if she hugs her wife''s waist?"


    I Love Mtang: "It is indeed problematic. I''ll change it to wrapping her arms around her wife''s neck. Thank you. [Heart]"


    Passerby Shi: "Since Xiaoye is acting spoiled in front of her wife, I think that simply hugging her wife''s neck wouldn''t be sufficiently sweet."


    For some reason, whenever Xu Chuanchuan listened to Passerby Shi''s words, she always found herself dragged along with the other''s pace. Sincerely, she asked, "How do you think I should change it, then?"


    Passerby Shi: "Bury her head into her wife''s breasts. You''ve set the wife to have a model''s body. While Xiaoye might not be tall enough for a hug, her height is just right for her to bury her head into the wife''s breasts. You can also take advantage of this opportunity to create some ambiguity."


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    I Love Mtang: "Tycoon, you''re a pervert."


    Passerby Shi: "You tter me."

 Chapter 31: Pt.1

    Chapter 31: Pt.1


    Murong Shi had received a reminder to go to bed from her mother before eleven o''clock. However, after giving a perfunctory reply and shutting the door, she promptly began staying upte again.


    Murong Shi had never been honest.


    Murong Shi had long since gotten used to reading Xu Chuanchuan''s novels before bedtime, which was also the case now.


    Even though she had been sleep-deprived because of work recently, she didn''t wish to spend her weekend sleeping.


    And although she didn''t know whether her recent insomnia was caused by her not reading novels for the past few days, she decided to redownload the reading application on her phone.


    I Love Mtang: "[Image] Edited a part. It''s not integral to the story, so everyone can ignore it if you can''t be bothered to read it."


    Despite it being in the middle of the night, the group was still active, and the night owls started appearing one after another.


    Ooh! Breast smothering is good! I want to do it as well! Lord, I want to dive into yours!


    The precondition is that the Lord needs to have breasts.


    Xu Chuanchuan looked down at the barren in that had formed after removing her bra: ...


    Lord, you''re horrible. Since you''ve already written breast smothering, why don''t you just continue with the scene?


    That''s right, that''s right! Attack the breast first, then follow it up with a kiss, and end it with a bed scene!


    Hahaha, you guys are all perverts, but I like it. I think Guaiguai needs a little brother or sister. What do you think, Lord?


    I Love Mtang: "...You guys are amazing. You managed to make up so many scenes from just one action. You''re even more perverted than a certain someone."


    What an ambiguous line. Who''s this "certain someone"?


    What?! Lord, did you secretly get into a rtionship?!


    Lord started a rtionship? Does that mean you have a boyfriend now? Tsk, I can already smell the stench of love.


    What boyfriend? Shouldn''t it be a girlfriend?


    Pft, the Lord is as straight as a steel pipe. She''s already rified it N times.


    It seems we have another new girl to tease.


    Lord, you''re straight? I''m so disappointed _(:)_


    I Love Mtang: "I''m straight, but you guys are overthinking things! I haven''t gotten into a rtionship, and I don''t have a boyfriend!"


    Xu Chuanchuan could never handle getting teased, and she would instantly cave and reveal everything after getting pressured a little bit. And because of her straightforward and boring reply, the girls in the group immediately lost interest in the topic.


    Before joining Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group, Murong Shi had already left her QQ ount idle for the past two or three years. If not for Xu Chuanchuan bringing up the reader group that day, Murong Shi wouldn''t have remembered this ount even existed. Fortunately, her phone still stored the relevant login information. Only, due to her long-term inactivity, the system required her to set a new password for the ount.


    If it were in the past, Murong Shi would''ve never bothered doing such a troublesome task. In fact, even she felt puzzled as to why she agreed to join Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group.


    Before joining the reader group, though, Murong Shi recalled the several attempts Xu Chuanchuan had made to probe into her identity, so she decided to set her QQ space to private.


    Murong Shi would rarely find herself engrossed in a matter or person. The novels Xu Chuanchuan wrote weren''t particrly to her liking, so she found it surprising she could keep reading them for so long.


    Murong Shi naturally knew that the "certain someone" Xu Chuanchuan mentioned in the reader group referred to herself. However, she didn''t make anyments about it. Meanwhile, after reading thest message Xu Chuanchuan had sent in the group, Murong Shi pondered for some time before clicking on a certain someone''s private chat. A momentter, though, she closed the private chat without typing anything.


    Why was Xu Chuanchuan writing yuri novels despite not being a lesbian?


    Murong Shi had long since wondered about Xu Chuanchuan''s sexual orientation. However, she never bothered asking for rification the first time she wondered about this question, and this time was also the same. In any case, whether Xu Chuanchuan liked men or women had nothing to do with her.


    The time jumped to eleven o''clock, and Murong Shi let out a yawn. Just as she was about to head to bed, her phone vibrated.


    Thinking that Xu Chuanchuan was looking for her, Murong Shi sent a nce at her phone. However, what she saw surprised her.


    A familiar yet unfamiliar avatar followed by an unread message had appeared in the first column of her chat list.


    Fang Qin: "Murong? Is it you? Or did your ount get stolen?"


    Murong Shi was surprised to find that Fang Qin, who was living in distant Ennd, was still using QQ.


    Murong Shi: "It''s me."


    Fang Qin: "OMG! Are you kidding me, Murong? You stoppeding on QQ for so many years that I thought you went missing!"


    Murong Shi: "I''m still in China while you''re living abroad. If anyone''s missing, it''s you."


    Murong Shi was used to talking in person or talking through the phone when conversing with her real-life friends, so she found it awkward and ufortable to chat with Fang Qin through messages. However, the following sentence Fang Qin sent immediately let her experience a sense of familiarity.


    Fang Qin: "What a cold-hearted person you are. It''s been so many years since we talked, yet you can''t even be bothered to ask how I am doing. I''m cutting off ties with you."


    Murong Shi: "You went abroad for three years and never returned even once to celebrate New Years with your parents, yet you call me cold-hearted?"


    Fang Qin: "Hey, you know exactly what kind of problems your big sister is going through. After I went abroad, my parents immediately severed rtions with me. I don''t dare to return at all."


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi asked: "Is it still that person?"


    Fang Qin: "What person?"


    Murong Shi: "Your first love."


    Fang Qin: "You mean her? We broke up half a year ago. Her parents disagreed with us being together, and her mother used suicide as a threat. In the end, she dumped me and went back home first. Look at how filial she is, and look at how pitiful I am."


    Murong Shi fell silent.


    Fang Qin''s first love was a girl much younger than herself. To follow after her girlfriend, Fang Qin had given up her domestic job and apanied her girlfriend, who was going abroad for further studies. Back then, Murong Shi had personally sent the couple off at the airport. She had felt relieved when she saw her best friend finding love. She had even given them an expensive gift that time.


    However, Murong Shi never thought that the two would break up for such an absurd reason.


    Fang Qin must''ve gone through a difficult time after being dumped by her sweetheart in a foreign country, yet Murong Shi was wholly unaware of this situation.


    Murong Shi: "I''m sorry."


    Fang Qin: "It''s not like you were the one who dumped me. Actually, it doesn''t really matter. It''s been half a year already, and probably neither of us remembers each other. By the way, I''m dealing with my handover procedures right now, and I''ll be returning to the country in a while. I might have to bother you again when that timees."


    Murong Shi wasn''t good with words of constion. She was more willing to lend her shoulder to Fang Qin. Unfortunately, neither of them were dramatic people.


    Murong Shi: "Alright. Give me a call before youe back. My number is 138********"


    Murong Shi''s sleepiness vanished without a trace after her short conversation with Fang Qin. After idly staring at her phone for a brief moment, she suddenly recalled Xu Chuanchuan''s novels.


    Every one of Xu Chuanchuan''s novels talked about a beautiful romance. Even if misunderstandings and arguments urred during the process, the two main characters of every book would still end up living happily ever after with each other. Their lives were smooth and happy. They even received the blessings of their friends and family. One of the characters would say, "I love you," while her partner would follow up with, "I''ll be with you until you leave me." The situations in these stories were no different than a fairy tale.


    However, there was no such thing as a perfect love in the real world. Reality was fragile and cruel. Even rtionships between heterosexuals were filled with pain and difficulties, let alone homosexual rtionships.


    When Murong Shi first started reading Xu Chuanchuan''s novels, she found that Xu Chuanchuan''s writing was very unrealistic. It was also the reason why she had never been able to immerse herself into these stories. However, after listening to Fang Qin''s words, Murong Shi realized that these unrealistic situations might not be bad after all.


    Everyone aspired to experience pure and beautiful love. Maybe this was one of the reasons why Xu Chuanchuan''s novels were so popr with readers.


    For the next several days, Xu Chuanchuan would always receive a Deep-water Torpedo plus ament from Passerby Shi every day. Xu Chuanchuan felt quite happy that this capricious tycoon was willing to "lower herself" and writements.


    The only problem Xu Chuanchuan had was that Passerby Shi''s everyment would have "astonishing" content. Other readers recognized Passerby Shi''s ID, so they liked to interact under herment. As a result, she would always find a group of people badgering her for passionate and explicit scenes every day for the past few days


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless by this situation. Just by looking at how capable Passerby Shi was at fanning the other readers'' emotions, Xu Chuanchuan felt that Passerby Shi had the qualities of being a pyramid scheme leader. Though, the reality was that Passerby Shi wasn''t consciously inciting the other readers.


    Meanwhile, whenever Xu Chuanchuan received a Deep-water Torpedo from Passerby Shi, she would always return a big red packet out of courtesy.


    However, a certain someone eventually grew annoyed by it and said: "I''ll stopmenting if you keep this up."


    I Love Mtang: "I know you don''tck money, but I''m not a stingy author. Since you are giving me donations, I have to give you a red packet out of courtesy."


    Passerby Shi: "Are you very generous?"


    I Love Mtang: "Am I not generous? I''ve given away so many physical books for free. I printed those using my own money, and each book costs me around 20 yuan. Printing over a hundred of those books cost a lot of money!"


    Passerby Shi: "Alright, I now know you''re generous."


    <em>Why do I get the feeling that this isn''t a sincerepliment?</em>


    At the mention of physical books, Xu Chuanchuan grew curious again, and she couldn''t help herself from asking whether Passerby Shi wanted them.


    However, Passerby Shi remained unrelenting and replied: "I don''t need them."


    After getting rejected for the second time, Xu Chuanchuan felt a little depressed.


    It was difficult for homosexual novels to get physical publications, while privately printed books didn''te with a book number and were considered illegal goods, so Xu Chuanchuan never dared to sell the physical copies she printed. Fortunately, many of her loyal readers wished to keep a physical copy of her books, so she asionally held giveaways on Weibo. However, while other readers were frantically fighting to own these physical books, Passerby Shi showed no interest in them whatsoever.


    <em>If Passerby Shi isn''t Murong Shi, why would she refuse my goodwill time and again? </em>


    <em>If she''s worried about exposing her address</em>

 Chapter 31: Pt.2

    Chapter 31: Pt.2


    <em>If she''s worried about exposing her address</em>


    Thinking up to this point, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had an idea, and she privately messaged one of theputer experts in her reader group.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan knew what she was doing was immoral, she couldn''t help her curiosity. So, she ended up asking theputer expert to help check Passerby Shi''s IP address.


    Several minutester, theputer expert gave her a reply.


    And although Xu Chuanchuan had known about it beforehand, when she received theputer expert''s investigation result, she still couldn''t help but be shockedPasserby Shi''s IP address belonged to the same city she lived in.


    However, with just the IP address, theputer expert couldn''t pinpoint Passerby Shi''s exact location. Though, Xu Chuanchuan was already satisfied with this result, so she didn''t ask for more.


    Theputer expert was one of Xu Chuanchuan''s loyal fans who had followed after her work for several years. To show her gratitude, Xu Chuanchuan promised to send the girl a physical copy of her book and reminded the other party, "Make sure not to tell others about this matter, alright?"


    Fortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, the girl was sensible and didn''t ask any questions on the matter.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan hadplicated feelings as she looked at the investigation result.


    <em>She''s living in the same city as I am. In that case, why would she refuse to tell the truth when I tried probing her previously? Is it because she has a guilty conscience? Is she trying to keep her privacy? Or is it because she''s just being a tsundere and couldn''t be bothered to say it?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan bit her lip and pondered for a moment. She then moved her cursor to Passerby Shi''s avatar.


    I Love Mtang: "Do you not want it? Or is it because you''re afraid of epting it?"


    Passerby Shi: "Afraid? What do you mean?"


    I Love Mtang: "I did some calctions with my fingers just now and calcted that you''re living in the same city as me. Don''t you think that''s magical? [Snicker]"


    Passerby Shi: "[Sweat]"


    I Love Mtang: "o()o"


    Passerby Shi: "You should stop writing and stop going to work in the future. You''d probably be better off starting a fortune-telling business."


    I Love Mtang: "...Fine. It''s your loss."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that she must''ve been bewitched. Whenever she made a new discovery, she would always try to link Passerby Shi with Murong Shi. If Ange found out about this, she would definitely be teasing her again. Passerby Shi probably thought that she was sick in the head as well.


    A lot of renovation work had been taking ce on thepany building''s third floor recently. During her lunch break, Xu Chuanchuan overheard her colleagues saying that thepany was constructing a dormitory for employees.


    Are they avable for everyone?


    I don''t think so. ording to Linda, thepany prepared them for the Business Department''s staff. They''ve been very busy recently, and most of those fresh graduates don''t have a fixed residence in the city. As nobody is using the third floor, thepany decided to modify it into a dormitory.


    How is that fair? Everyone is working in the samepany, so why do those fresh graduates get to stay in the dorms while we don''t?


    How is that not fair? Every one of us gets a housing allowance, while those neers don''t. Besides, even if you''re allowed to live there, will you want to? You''re already married.


    That''s true. Most people in ourpany are married, right?


    Little Xu doesn''t seem to have a boyfriend yet.


    Xu Chuanchuan never thought she would be brought up as a conversation topic. While pretending to drink water to hide her embarrassment, she said, "I have a ce to stay. I''m renting an apartment outside."


    Her colleagues liked to gossip a lot, and whenever the topic of her rtionship status came up, they could always make up a bunch of nonsense. Some of them would offer to introduce her to potential partners, while others would ask a bunch of questions. Xu Chuanchuan feared these situations the most, so she quickly finished her water and used getting a refill as an excuse to escape.


    The hallway outside the Engineering Department was quiet, though Xu Chuanchuan could asionally hear renovation noisesing from upstairs. After getting a refill from the pantry and taking a sip, she suddenly saw a person walking hastily into the pantry.


    This person was Linda.


    As Murong Shi''s assistant, Linda was always dressed appropriately. This time, though, she looked like a mess, and her meticulouslybed hair had many loose strands sticking out of it. However, as if she was unaware of her messy state, the first thing Linda did after entering the pantry was to grab a disposable cup, fill it with water, and gulp it down in one mouthful.


    After catching her breath, Linda turned to Xu Chuanchuan and smiled, exining, "I haven''t had a sip of water the whole morning. I haven''t gone to lunch yet, either, so I was dying of thirst."


    Responding with her own smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Lunch break started long ago. Are you <em>that </em>busy?"


    Leaning against a cab, Linda breathed out a heavy sigh and said, "Not exactly. I was checking up on the renovation progress upstairs just now and forgot about time after chatting with the workers."


    "Is it going to take long?"


    Linda shook her head and said, "It''ll be done soon. Actually, there isn''t a lot to be done. Most of the renovation work consists of repainting the walls. By the way, are you renting an apartment outside by yourself?"


    "Huh? That''s right."


    "You can stop renting it once the renovation works arepleted. The dorm rooms hold two people each, and they''re modeled to hotel standards. You will like them."


    Xu Chuanchuan was slightly stunned by Linda''s proposal. She then asked, "Weren''t they meant for the Business Department only?"


    After downing another cup of water, Linda said, "No. Anyone can stay in them so long as they''re single. This is special welfare from thepany."


    In other words, it was welfare for singles. Unfortunately, while it sounded nice, Xu Chuanchuan preferred to live alone because of her part-time job as an author. So, she simply smiled and did not make any verbal responses to Linda''s offer.


    "I''ll stop here. I''m going to go have lunch now."


    "Mhm, bye-bye."


    However, after exiting the pantry, Linda suddenly turned around and said, "I nearly forgot something. Little Xu, are you busy?"


    Blinking her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "No, I''m not busy."


    Putting on a radiant smile, Linda said, "The cleaners are on their break right now, and the workers upstairs need some dry rags. Can you help me bring some up for them? I might faint if I don''t eat something soon."


    "Sure." Hearing that it was easy work, Xu Chuanchuan was more than willing to help out.


    Familiarly opening one of the top cabs in the pantry, Linda grabbed some of the dry rags inside and handed them to Xu Chuanchuan. "Just ce these on the floor once you head upstairs. The workers will take the rags when they need them. Thanks, and sorry for the trouble."


    "You''re wee."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan entered the nearby stairwell and made her way upstairs.


    The rooms on the third floor were mostly empty, and hammering sounds echoed throughout the floor. Clutter also covered the ground. Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t wearing high heels, so she could nimbly maneuver her way through the ce. After locating an upied renovation worker, she asked, "Are you the one who needs the rags?"


    The worker stopped hammering at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. He then pointed at one of the empty rooms and said, "In there."


    "Okay."


    When Xu Chuanchuan approached the room in question, the stench of paint entered her nostrils. As soon as she entered the room, she immediately felt something gooey sweeping across the top of her head.


    "Ah"


    A gasp came from above Xu Chuanchuan, startling her. When she looked up, she saw another renovation worker squatting on wooden scaffolding, and this worker was currently staring at the top of her head with an awkward expression.


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously touched her head, her handing into contact with something sticky. When she looked at her palm and saw the green paint staining it, she was dumbfounded.


    "Sorry, sorry. I was squatting down and about to take a break. I didn''t think someone would suddenlye in," the worker said apologetically as he held up the paint-stained brush in his hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan had the urge to cry but failed to shed any tears.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not recklessly touch her head. She also didn''t know how much paint had gotten onto her head. After dropping off the rags, she hurriedly ran back to the stairs and made her way to the washroom downstairs. However, in her hurry, she very nearly crashed into someone walking up the stairs.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw who the other person was, she grew even more flustered.


    Just as Murong Shi was about to ask Xu Chuanchuan why she would being down from the third floor, her eyes inadvertently saw the state of Xu Chuanchuan''s head. "Why is your hair green?"


    "..." In a depressed state, Xu Chuanchuan gave Murong Shi a brief exnation of what just happened.


    Murong Shi was briefly stunned by Xu Chuanchuan''s story.


    Lowering her head in embarrassment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll go and try to wash it off with water."


    However, Murong Shi grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist, easily stopping the shorter woman from leaving. She then said, "It''s paint. How are you going to wash it off with water?"


    Her face growing pale, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What should I do, then?"


    Putting on an ambiguous smile, Murong Shi said, "Just think of it as getting your hair dyed. You''re not a man, in any case, so nobody will say you''re wearing a green hat."[1]


    <em>How excellent you are at consoling a person. </em>Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched when she heard Murong Shi''s words.


    Retracting her mirth, Murong Shi took a step forward.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan instinctively backed away when she saw Murong Shi approaching. However, she forgot that she was currently standing on a staircase, so she ended up tripping and losing bnce.


    Fortunately, Murong Shi reacted quickly and grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s arm, preventing the fall.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up at her blunder. After struggling out of Murong Shi''s hold, she said, "Thanks."


    Currently, the two of them were already standing on the same level.


    Patting Xu Chuanchuan on the shoulder, Murong Shi said, "Lower your head and let me take a look."


    Xu Chuanchuan was confused by Murong Shi''s words but still obediently followed them.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked down, she saw Murong Shi extending a hand toward her head from the corner of her eye. She then heard Murong Shi saying, "Let it dry. Thankfully, none of it got onto your scalp, so it should be possible to get rid of it. I''ll have Linda help you deal with it once she returns."


    Xu Chuanchuan rxed when she heard the paint could be removed. She then said, "I''ll head back to my office and wait for her, then."


    "Return to your office?"


    "Where else can I go?"


    Drawing a circle on top of Xu Chuanchuan''s head with her slender finger, Murong Shi said, "Are you sure you want to go back and show everyone your green hair?"


    "..." Of course she wouldn''t want that. Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I I''ll wait for her in the conference room."


    "The Business Department is holding a meeting there. Right now."


    Pulling a long face, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll head to the pantry, then."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "My office isn''t locked. You can head inside and use the air conditioning there to dry the paint faster."


    TL Notes:


    [1]green hat: In China, wearing a green hat ( or di l mo z) is an expression that Chinese use when a woman cheats on her husband or boyfriend because the phrase sounds simr to the word for /green-hat-a-no-no/

 Chapter 32: Pt.1

    Chapter 32: Pt.1


    The general manager''s office was spacious, and the air conditioning was set to the lowest temperature. Whenever Xu Chuanchuan entered this room, she would feel like she had just entered a freezer room. Now that Murong Shi was absent from the room, she could finally look around without fear.


    The color of the solid wooden desk was dull, therge bookcase was of a simr color, and dark leather wrapped the sofa set in the lounge area The color of almost every furniture in the room was of a dreary tone.


    In reality, Murong Mingkun was the one who oversaw the refurbishment of this room. However, Murong Shi didn''t have much opinion over the furniture. The only change she made was recing the previous office chair with an oversized, red office chair with afortable backrest.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not let her hands wander. After obediently taking a seat on one of the sofas, she pulled out her phone and messaged Ange while Murong Shi was still away from the office.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m alone in my boss''s daughter''s office right now. It feels so weird."


    Ange: "???"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s nothing. I''m just a little nervous."


    Ange: "Boring. I thought you were going to tell me something juicy."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "[Grin] Are you not taking an afternoon nap?"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could receive a reply from Ange, she heard the sound of the door opening behind her. After storing her phone away in a panic, she turned around to look who had entered. When she saw it was Murong Shi, she instinctively stood up from her seat.


    Sending Xu Chuanchuan a nce, Murong Shi said, "It''s fine. Sit."


    Xu Chuanchuan sat down again. Although she sat in the same rxed posture, her nerves were no longer as rxed as before. Seeing Murong Shi moving closer to her, she asked, "Have you had lunch yet?"


    "Mhm." When Murong Shi passed by the water dispenser, she paused and asked, "Do you want some water?"


    "No, no, you can go about your business," Xu Chuanchuan said as she waved her hand in a hurry. She then shrank back her neck in an attempt to reduce her presence as much as possible.


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan was incapable of going invisible, so she could still feel Murong Shi''s gazending on herself. To be precise, Murong Shi''s gazended on the top of her head.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew embarrassed when she noticed where Murong Shi was looking. However, she dared not recklessly move about, either. So, she deliberately shifted the topic and asked, "Are you nning to rest? I''ll make sure I don''t make a peep."


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know that Murong Shi would typically lie down on the sofa she currently sat on when resting.


    After a moment of silence, Murong Shi said, "No need." She then circled her work desk and opened a drawer, revealing a box of instant coffee. Taking out a stick, she looked at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Do you want some coffee?"


    "Huh?" It took several seconds for Xu Chuanchuan to process that Murong Shi''s question was directed toward her. Immediately afterward, she shook her head and said, "No, I just had lunch."


    Murong Shi did not insist on the matter. After shaking the powder in the bag, she tore open the package and poured the coffee powder into a clean mug.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi walking over to the water dispenser, she hurriedly stood up and said, "I''ll help you with that."


    However, Murong Shi sent Xu Chuanchuan an indifferent nce and said, "No need. I''m not used to the smell of paint, so just sit down."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Fine, so she''s disgusted with the smelling from my body.</em>


    <em>I wonder if the paint has dried yet? </em>Shifting her neck around ufortably, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How long does Linda usually take to finish lunch?"


    While filling her mug with water, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "She takes a while."


    <em>How long must I wait here?</em>


    Growing anxious, Xu Chuanchuan said, "How about I"


    As if knowing what Xu Chuanchuan was going to say, Murong Shi cut Xu Chuanchuan''s words short and said, "You only ended up like this because she asked you for help. It''s only reasonable for her to help you in return, so just sit down and be at ease. You can read some magazines if you''re bored. You can also pretend as if I don''t exist."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>This is your territory. How can I pretend you don''t exist?</em>


    "You can also read your novels."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped, and she lifted her head to look at Murong Shi in surprise.


    Murong Shi had made the suggestion in a casual tone, and even her expression was one of indifference. Yet, for some reason, Xu Chuanchuan kept getting the feeling that Murong Shi''s gaze when looking at her was somewhat strange. Murong Shi''s straight and prating gaze made her feel as if she was the subject of an experiment.


    Xu Chuanchuan found this feeling extremely diforting, so she hurriedly lowered her head to avoid looking at Murong Shi. Upon looking down, she noticed several magazines ced under the coffee table. She then grabbed one of these magazines and started flipping through it.


    All the while, Xu Chuanchuan could hear Murong Shi''s footstepsing from behind her. Shortly afterward, she felt the airflow behind her changing, and she couldn''t help but tense up her body.


    The next second, Xu Chuanchuan heard Murong Shi''s voiceing from above her, saying, "This is the first time I''ve seen a girl with a green head."


    Xu Chuanchuan recalled that Murong Shi had just said that she was unused to the smell of paint, so she subconsciously lowered her posture even further. While doing so, she suddenly heard a "click"ing from above her.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan lifted her head and looked up.


    What entered Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes was an iPhone. At the same time as she looked up, another "click" came from the phone as it captured her horrified expression.


    Murong Shi pursed her lips and admired the masterpiece she captured. She then said, "Adding a filter indeed makes it look better. It looks as if you''ve grown a patch of grass on top of your head."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to smile at Murong Shi''sment. Pulling up the corners of her stiff mouth, she asked, "You''re not nning to share it on social media, right?"


    Murong Shi did not answer. Instead, she scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan''s faze for a moment before saying seriously, "You have good facial features. There are no major ws on your skin, either. Overall, you are quite photogenic."


    Xu Chuanchuan temporarily lost her ability to speak at the sudden praise. However, before she could blush out of embarrassment, her face froze at Murong Shi''s following words.


    "Do you know what is the difference between you and your little sister?" Murong Shi asked while still staring at Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    Stunned by the question, Xu Chuanchuan blurted, "My little sister?"


    Murong Shi was very tall, and she also wore a pair of high heels. While examining Xu Chuanchuan''s face from a condescending posture, she slowly bent down her waist and moved closer to Xu Chuanchuan''s face, all the while wearing a solemn expression.


    In this situation, even though Murong Shi wasn''t doing anything to her, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help but be frightened. She didn''t know what Murong Shi was trying to do, and she subconsciously held her breath and stiffened her body.


    As the distance between the two grew shorter and shorter, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the misconception that the other party was trying to kiss her. If it wasn''t for Murong Shi''s stern expression


    Xu Chuanchuan could no longer maintain herposure and hurriedly shifted aside. Immediately afterward, she felt blood rushing up to her face, heating it.


    At this time, Murong Shi gradually straightened her posture again.


    Unlike Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi was the epitome of calm. Ignoring Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt to avoid her, she casually said, "The reason why your little sister appears cuter than you are is because she treats people sincerely. You, on the other hand, are a lot craftier."


    Xu Chuanchuan had yet to recover from the previous predicament, so this abrupt criticism stunned her thoroughly. Blinking her eyes, she asked, "How am I crafty? I''m very sincere toward everyone."


    Snorting, Murong Shi said, "Is that so?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that she was innocent, so she questioned, "How am I not sincere?"


    However, Murong Shi didn''t answer. Instead, she retracted the emotions on her face and tapped her finger on her phone''s screen. She then said, "I deleted it."


    What Murong Shi deleted were the two pictures of Xu Chuanchuan''s head she took just now. Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan breathed out a sigh of relief.


    "However, do be warned that I will never delete the voice recording from before," Murong Shi said as she waved her phone in front of Xu Chuanchuan.


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan stiffened once more.


    Xu Chuanchuan truly regretted her decision now. Thepany building was such a big ce, yet out of all the ces she could choose to hide in, why did she have to choose Murong Shi''s office.


    As Xu Chuanchuan had expected, Murong Shi wasn''t a kind person. Every second and minute she spent with Murong Shi felt like torture.


    If Xu Chuanchuan had known this would happen, she would rather let the wholepanyugh at her instead.


    <em>When will Lindae back? Can anyone hear my heart''s pleas?</em>


    Perhaps Murong Shi had grown tired from standing, she suddenly decided to change her posture and sat down on the armrest beside Xu Chuanchuan. With this, the distance between them shortened even more, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but shift her body away in this situation. However, afraid that Murong Shi would go along with the flow and move into the space she created, Xu Chuanchuan shifted back a little, ensuring that there wasn''t enough space for Murong Shi to sit down.


    When Xu Chuanchuan realized how stupid her actions were, Murong Shi''s voice suddenly entered her ears, saying, "By the way, you said you read novels to deal with insomnia previously. Do you have any rmendations for me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan stopped moving and looked at Murong Shi skeptically.


    Murong Shi''s eyes were calm and revealed none of her thoughts. She behaved as if she was having an entirely normal conversation.


    Blinking her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You can try local and foreign masterpieces."


    Casually running her fingers through her hair, Murong Shi said, "I''ll pass on famous works. I don''t like reading profound books."


    <em>It''s so hot. Why is it getting hotter in here? </em>Pinching her palm, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What genre do you prefer? You can take a look at the nearby Xinghua Bookstore. There is a wide variety of books there. You can"


    "Pass. It''s too troublesome," Murong Shi interrupted. She then changed the topic and asked, "What kind of novels do you usually read?"


    This was a perfectly normal question, yet Xu Chuanchuan had a sense of foreboding when she heard it. However, when she looked at Murong Shi''s face and saw thetter''s indescribably calm expression, she couldn''t help but be confused.


    "I generally read web novels that don''t have any nuance. You won''t be interested in them." Under pressure, Xu Chuanchuan answered without properly thinking over her reply.


    However, Murong Shi grew interested upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s reply. Subconsciously smiling, she relentlessly asked, "What are you currently reading?"


    "This" Ever since Xu Chuanchuan started writing, she very rarely talked about novels with other people. Meanwhile, the most recent book she read was Ange''stest serialized work. However, there was no way she could reveal this fact.


    <em>Why did she suddenly bring up novels? Is she just holding a casual conversation? Or is she testing me? What is her goal in testing me? Could Murong Shi be Passerby Shi?</em> Several questions appeared in Xu Chuanchuan''s mind.


    Thest question, in particr, gave Xu Chuanchuan a scare.


    "What''s with that expression? Don''t tell me you read horror novels?"


    Letting out a dry cough, Xu Chuanchuan yed along with Murong Shi''s words and said, "Y-Yes. There''s horror in it."


    This was, in fact, not a lie. Ange''s novels belonged to the infinite horror genre. Xu Chuanchuan would always be afraid of going to the bathroom whenever she finished reading one of Ange''s novels.


    "You read horror stories to cope with insomnia? You seem to be looking down on my intelligence."


    Xu Chuanchuan fell silent.


    "If you don''t want to say it, forget it." Murong Shi suddenly stood up and looked at Xu Chuanchuan condescendingly, her eyes seemingly saying, "Admit it. You''re not an honest person. You indeed have a crafty heart."


    After seeing Murong Shi returning to her desk, Xu Chuanchuan finally dared to wipe the sweat in her palms on her pants. Unable to bear the torture anymore, she stood up and said, "I''m going to the washroom."


    Without waiting for Murong Shi to respond, Xu Chuanchuan quickly rushed out of the office.


    There was nobody in the washroom. After finally getting the opportunity to look at her green hair through the mirror, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be at a loss for words.


    When she tried touching the green paint, she found that it was only partially dried.


    Meanwhile, only after scrubbing her hand with soap for a long time did she manage to remove the paint staining her hand. When Xu Chuanchuan looked at herself in the mirror again, she suddenly had the urge to p herself.


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bear to be heavy-handed against herself. After symbolically pping herself on the cheeks, she pointed at the person in the mirror and quietly scolded, "Must you panic to such an extent from a few questions? Can you get your act together?"


    The next moment, the sound of a crisp p echoed in the washroom.

 Chapter 32: Pt.2

    Chapter 32: Pt.2


    A few minutester, Xu Chuanchuan returned to the office with a downcast look.


    Murong Shi was currently seated on her big red chair while fiddling with her phone. One of her legs rested on the desk while the other was crossed over it and dangling in the air. Murong Shi had also removed her high heels, exposing her rounded toenails painted with red nail polish.


    When Xu Chuanchuan entered the room and saw thispelling scene, she gaped in shock, thinking that she had entered the wrong room.


    <em>Her skin color is so light</em> Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously gulped.


    Suddenly, Murong Shi stopped dangling her leg. Without even shifting her gaze away from her phone, shezily said, "Linda is already on her way back. You just need to wait a while longer."


    "Okay" Xu Chuanchuan returned to her seat on the sofa. However, her eyes couldn''t help but be drawn toward a certain location. This was the first time she had seen Murong Shi acting so carefreely in front of herself. She was quite shocked by this situation, and she really wished to ask Murong Shi: "The air conditioning here is so cold. Can your fair legs handle it?"


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan wouldn''t dare ask such a question even if her courage was multiplied by tenfold.


    When Xu Chuanchuan retracted her gaze, she suddenly heard a "ding-dong" sound.


    This was a WeChat message notification.


    Xu Chuanchuan was extremely familiar with this sound, but this sound didn''te from her phone.


    Murong Shi was currently replying to a WeChat message, and she replied using text.


    Suddenly, the sound of a "bang" entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears, causing her body to jolt. When she looked to the source of the sound, she saw that Murong Shi had frowned and tossed her phone to the desk in annoyance.


    Afterward, Murong Shi lowered her legs and adjusted her posture, instantly transforming from azy queen into a stern "She-Devil."


    <em>Ah, I still haven''t had my fill,</em> Xu Chuanchuan inwardlymented when Murong Shi''s legs disappeared from her sight.


    Murong Shi''s eyes stared straight ahead without blinking, making it seem as if she was looking at herputer''s screen. In reality, though, she was in a daze.


    Several more "ding-dongs" echoed throughout the room. With an annoyed expression, Murong Shi grabbed her phone and started typing a reply again.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan looked at her own phone. Currently, both her WeChat and QQ messenger were quiet.


    However, while Xu Chuanchuan might not have received any private messages, the reader group she had blocked was incredibly lively, and the group''s unread message count was capped off at 99. Taking a peek into the group out of boredom, she coincidentally came across a reader saying: "Did anyone else notice that tycoons who love to donate don''t like chatting? Take Darling Shi, for example. She has only spoken a few words ever since joining the group."


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had an idea, and she sought out Passerby Shi''s avatar in her friend list.


    I Love Mtang: "Are you there?''


    After sending these three words, Xu Chuanchuan immediately put away her phone and looked toward Murong Shi, who sat behind theputer.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t get a clear look because of the distance between them, she still managed to see Murong Shi blink once shortly after she sent her message. However, as Murong Shi''s phone had been ringing non-stop from the constant stream of WeChat messages, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t tell if Murong Shi''s phone had vibrated or not from receiving a QQ message.


    At this time, Murong Shi suddenly looked up.


    Caught off guard, Xu Chuanchuan failed to retract her prying eyes in time, and she couldn''t help but panic a little. In an attempt to feign calmness, she suddenly had a bright idea and asked, "Do you usually use WeChat?"


    Murong Shi rested her elbows on her chair''s armrests. With one hand holding her phone and the other hand tapping on her desk lightly, she indifferently responded with an "Mhm." She then asked, "Do you want to add my WeChat?"


    "Not really." A hint of embarrassment appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face. "I normally use QQ."


    Murong Shi quietly looked at Xu Chuanchuan without following up thetter''s words.


    Holding back her embarrassment, Xu Chuanchuan carefully asked, "Do you use QQ?"


    Still not showing any expressions on her face, Murong Shi said, "WeChat is enough for me. I rarely use QQ. Do you have any other questions?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had a lot of questions she wanted to ask. However, when subjected to Murong Shi''s imposing aura, she didn''t dare to speak anymore. Her phone had remained motionless all this time, so Xu Chuanchuan knew that Passerby Shi had not replied to her all this time. Yet, she didn''t dare to continue probing Murong Shi. Smiling fawningly, she said, "No. Please continue with what you were doing"


    Five minutester, Linda finally returned.


    With one more person in the room, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her stress levels falling. She was so excited by Linda''s return that she very nearly stood up and gave Linda a hug.


    By now, the paint on Xu Chuanchuan''s head had mostly dried. It was also fortunate that her hair only reached to her shoulders. So, dealing with the paint was much easier.


    Even so, Linda still spent nearly half an hour removing all of the green paint. She then said to Xu Chuanchuan, "Make sure to wash your hair a few more times after going home."


    "Okay, thank you."


    "No need to thank me. You wouldn''t have gotten into this mess in the first ce if it wasn''t for me."


    Scratching her head awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll head back now."


    Although Linda tried to follow after Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi stopped her, saying, "Linda,e here."


    "What''s the matter?"


    After making sure that the door was closed and Xu Chuanchuan had left, Murong Shi said, "No matter who asks you about it, don''t tell anyone that I''m reading novels in the future."


    A worried expression appearing on Linda''s face, she said, "Young Master Jiang asked me about it before, so I told him"


    "Don''t tell anyone else in the future."


    Although Linda was confused as to why Murong Shi would want to keep such a normal hobby a secret, she didn''t pry further into the matter. Instead, she solemnly said, "I promise not to tell anyone else from now on."


    After hearing Linda''s reply, Murong Shi turned her gaze toward her phone. She currently had her QQ messenger open, and the messenger showed an unread message from Xu Chuanchuan. The message was sent around half an hour ago, and the message only had three words.


    <em>You''re testing me in front of my face now? It seems you''re getting more and more unrestrained.</em>


    Murong Shi hummed and pondered for a moment before saying, "I might be receiving a delivery in a few days. I need you to help me receive it, so give me your home address."


    "Okay."


    After getting off work and returning home, Xu Chuanchuan noticed she had received a reply from Passerby Shi: "Do you need something?"


    The message was sent after she had gotten off work.


    Xu Chuanchuan had messaged Passerby Shi in an attempt to test Murong Shi''s identity. Of course, she had failed. Looking at Passerby Shi''s reply now, she couldn''t help but wonder what she should say.


    After hesitating for several seconds, Xu Chuanchuan felt her phone vibrating once more.


    Passerby Shi: "You said you wanted to give me a physical copy of your books before. Are they still avable?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned. Hadn''t this capricious tycoon been refusing her goodwill all this time? What was with the change in attitude today?


    I Love Mtang: "Yes. I have a copy of every book. Which ones do you want?"


    Passerby Shi: "Up to you. My address is *****, and my phone number is *****."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be dumbfounded once more when she saw the other party giving away even her address and phone number. <em>What kind of plot is this?</em>


    The address pointed toward a housing unit in a certain residentialmunity. Although Xu Chuanchuan had never heard of thismunity''s name, since it was located in the same city and area, she deemed that they should be living quite close to each other.


    <em>She gave me her real information without hesitation. Could Passerby Shi and Murong Shi really be different people?</em>


    I Love Mtang: "What should I write for the recipient name? Should I write ''Passerby Shi''?"


    Passerby Shi: "Anything is fine. You decide."


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    The other party''s unusual actions stumped Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, there was now another method she could use to validate her conjecture, and that was


    Xu Chuanchuan typed out the series of numbers and clicked "Call."


    <em>Beep, beep, beep</em>


    <em>It''s not a fake number! It actually connected!</em>


    Afraid that she would hear a certain someone''s familiar voice, Xu Chuanchuan got so scared that she couldn''t hold her phone properly. She then ced it on the table and set it to speaker mode.


    After the busy tone continued for several seconds, a "Meow" came from her phone.


    Xu Chuanchuan: ???


    <em>Are my ears broken? Or is my phone broken? Why is there the sound of a cat?</em>


    Leaning closer to her phone, Xu Chuanchuan pinched her throat and spoke into the receiver, "Hello"


    The other party: "Meow"


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    She hadn''t misheard. That was indeed the sound of a cat.


    Xu Chuanchuan disconnected the call in depression.


    Murong Shi''s phone number wasn''t publicly known. As a meager assistant in thepany, Xu Chuanchuan naturally didn''t have Murong Shi''s phone number. So, she had nothing to use as aparison.


    The next moment, a new message appeared on her phone''s screen.


    Passerby Shi: "Did you call my phone just now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tensed up, and she started regretting her rash actions. She really wished to strangle herself now.


    <em>I''ve probed her privacy time and again. I really am a nasty person</em> After thinking long and hard over the matter, Xu Chuanchuan eventually decided to confess.


    I Love Mtang: "Yes I was afraid you made a typo, so I tried calling to see if it will connect."


    Passerby Shi: "That''s my number. Is there anything else?"


    I Love Mtang: "But I only heard a cat meowing just now"


    Passerby Shi: "Oh, it''s my cat. My house''s little cutie is exceptionally smart. It would sometimes answer the phone for me when I''m not afraid."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "............"

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    Murong Shi had two phone numbers; one was for work, and the other was for private use. She gave thetter to Xu Chuanchuan. Unless Murong Mingkun or Linda sold her out, there was no way Xu Chuanchuan could find out this was her number.


    <em>Since when did it begin? </em>Murong Shi pondered.


    After Murong Shi started paying attention to a certain someone''s Weibo ount, Xu Chuanchuan had started suspecting her identity. She never expected that Xu Chuanchuan, someone who typically had a dull and quiet personality, would have such a sensitive and delicate mind.


    Although Murong Shi found that she could relieve her boredom by teasing Xu Chuanchuan, she didn''t want the other party constantly probing into her identity. Hence, she gave Linda''s address to Xu Chuanchuan.


    <em>Knock, knock, knock</em>


    Apanied by the sound of knocking, Murong Mingshu''s voice came through the door, "Little Shi, are you still awake?"


    Shifting her attention away from her phone, Murong Shi raised her voice slightly and replied, "Mom, it''s still early."


    "I''m not here to urge you to sleep. I heard a cat meowing just now. Since when did you get a cat?"


    Without the slightest hint of embarrassment on her face, Murong Shi said, "Mom, you misheard. I''m not raising a cat. It was the sound from a video."


    "Is that so? That gave me a scare. Anyways, I''ll go watch TV with your Aunt Lian."


    The next moment, sounds of footsteps came through the door, and these footsteps gradually faded into nothing.


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry in this situation.


    Murong Mingshu was allergic to all things furry, so their family had never raised a pet before.


    While Murong Shi was lying on the bed, she had suddenly received a call from a number belonging to the same city. She had initially thought it was a call from a scammer or advertiser, but when she saw that thest four digits were "4224," she couldn''t help but feel as if she had seen this number before.


    After putting some thought into the matter, Murong Shi quickly remembered that she had asked Linda to look into this number just some time ago.


    It was fortunate she had a good memory. Had she rashly epted the call, she would''ve given herself away.


    Murong Shi never expected Xu Chuanchuan to call her. Forced by the situation, she ended up mimicking the meowing of a cat. However, her mimicry was so indistinguishable from the real thing that even she was amazed by herself.


    This was probably the most psychotic thing Murong Shi had done in her 26 years of life. Ever since she had started reading a certain someone''s novels, she noticed that her behavior was getting increasingly out of her control. This was especially true when she was alone by herselfte at night.


    If Xu Chuanchuan still refused to give up Murong Shi decided that she would have to take more ruthless actions.


    A carton of cultured milk was not enough to calm Xu Chuanchuan''s current mood, so she went and grabbed another carton.


    After waiting for herputer to boot up and her QQ messenger to log in automatically, Xu Chuanchuan had already finished her second carton of cultured milk.


    While facing the screen and letting out a long burp, Xu Chuanchuan recalled the criticism Murong Shi gave her during the day, and she couldn''t help but feel even more depressed. She then clicked on a certain someone''s avatar.


    I Love Mtang: "Are you looking down on my intelligence? You''re clearly lying to me. [Aggrieved]"


    The first half of the message was something Murong Shi said to her today, and Xu Chuanchuan felt that it was the perfect sentence to use as retaliation against Passerby Shi right now.


    Passerby Shi: "Is speaking while pinching your throat not a form of lying as well?"


    <em>She managed to discern even that?</em>


    Blushing, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I was just nervous."


    Passerby Shi: "You''re notmitting a crime, so what''s there to be nervous about?"


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    Was probing into someone''s identity not considered a crime?


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan would never reveal this to the other party.


    Xu Chuanchuan noticed that whenever she conversed with Passerby Shi, the other party could always effortlessly silence her. Even if she had reason on her side, the other party could make it sound as if she was the guilty party. This made her feel as if she was going up against Murong Shi. This was also why she kept on suspecting Passerby Shi''s identity.


    After pondering over the matter, Xu Chuanchuan decided to go out on a limb.


    I Love Mtang: "I just think that your manner of speaking resembles a certain someone I know in real life."


    Passerby Shi: "So?"


    I Love Mtang: "Nevermind"


    In all honesty, Xu Chuanchuan was rather afraid that Passerby Shi would be Murong Shi. If that was the case, she might really have to consider contacting her publisher and changing her pen name. Though, doing so would cost her a considerable price.


    Passerby Shi: "Dear author, we are currently speaking through the inte. Personally, I think it is better for people on the inte to keep a little privacy and mystery between each other. What do you think?"


    These words might seem courteous, but Xu Chuanchuan could sense a hint of annoyance and angering from them, and she felt that she had gone a little too far.


    I Love Mtang: "I thinkyou are right. I''m sorry."


    Passerby Shi: "Of course, I don''t exactly mind if you wish to remove this barrier between us. I just so happen to be single right now."


    I Love Mtang: "*Cough* I don''t seem to understand what you mean?"


    Passerby Shi: "What I mean is, if you really want to learn of my private matters, be my girlfriend. I won''t hold anything back from my girlfriend."


    !!!


    Xu Chuanchuan was so surprised that she sent her mouse flying and her keyboard flipping. However, she quickly calmed herself down and reorganized her messy desk.


    I Love Mtang: "Tycoon, I was wrong! Please ignore all of what I just said! I promise I won''t ever harass you in the future! I wish you a pleasant read! Hope you find a new girlfriend soon!"


    Immediately after sending this message, Xu Chuanchuan closed the conversation window and logged out of her QQ messenger, afraid that she would see an even more frightening message the next second. She theny down on her desk and patted her chest to suppress her shock.


    Now that the other party had spoken such words, was there still any need for doubt? After this episode, Xu Chuanchuan was absolutely and positively certain that Passerby Shi was positively and absolutely not Murong Shi!!!


    This interlude had thoroughly killed any mood Xu Chuanchuan had for writing, so she turned off herputer. She then dragged out a heavy cardboard box from under her bed.


    The box held the physical books she had yet to give away. After grabbing one copy of each novel, she packed them up neatly into a smaller cardboard box.


    There were still some leftover shippingbels, so she grabbed one and started filling in the details. However, when arriving at the sender''s name, she hesitated.


    What should she write for the sender''s name?


    She definitely couldn''t write her pen name.


    Now that Xu Chuanchuan knew Passerby Shi wasn''t Murong Shi, though, she didn''t have anything to be afraid of, so she ended up writing her real name.


    Xu Chuanchuan hadn''t practiced her caligraphy much when she was young, so her handwriting was nothing to write home about. Fortunately, it was delicate and neat.


    When Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the recipient''s name, she wrote the words "Passerby Shi" as slowly and beautifully as possible to preserve some favorability. However, as she couldn''t remember the other party''s address and phone number, she had no choice but to revisit the message that a certain someone had sent to her using her phone.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan felt a little nervous when she opened the conversation window, it was fortunate that Passerby Shi did not send her any more messages. Hurriedly she found the message containing the address and took a screenshot of it.


    Since Xu Chuanchuan decided not to write anything today, she found herself feeling a little empty. After taking an early shower, sheid on her bed, flipped through her conversation log with Passerby Shi, and started reflecting on her actions.


    Xu Chuanchuan realized that she had acted excessively during this period, and she couldn''t help but feel apologetic toward both Passerby Shi and Murong Shi. I''ll just treat those six books as a sign of apology for Passerby Shi.


    <em>As for Murong Shi''s side Don''t tell me I have to treat her to another meal?</em>


    <em>I doubt she''ll ept my offer again.</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled the scene in the mtang restaurant that day, she couldn''t help but feel embarrassed. <em>Forget it, forget it. I should just focus on doing my job properly.</em>


    The courier arrived to receive her package on the same night, and Xu Chuanchuan still vividly remembered what the courier had said to her when he saw the recipient''s address. With a stunned look on his face, he said, "You''re using a delivery service for such a nearby location?"


    Taking advantage of the opportunity, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Where is thismunity located?"


    "It''s over at Mingde Lake. It''s only around five kilometers away from here."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan eximed, "It''s so close by?"


    "It is close." After weighing the package in his hand, the courier said, "This thing''s quite heavy as well. You''d be better off delivering it yourself."


    However, while the courier''s suggestion sounded reasonable, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish toe across an awkward situation where she bumped into Passerby Shi. She felt that what Passerby Shi said was right and that it would be better to keep some mystery in their rtionship.


    Smiling awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I don''t have the time."


    With money to earn, the courier didn''t try to dissuade Xu Chuanchuan anymore. After weighing the package, he gave her a receipt, collected the delivery fee, and left.


    Because the delivery destination in the same city, Xu Chuanchuan''s package arrived around noon the next day. When the courier called, Murong Shi was in a meeting with the Business Department''s manager. Interrupting the manager, she said, "Sorry, but let me take this call."


    After the meeting ended, Murong Shi whispered to Linda, "The delivery has arrived. I told him to leave it at yourmunity''s guard post. Help me bring it to thepany tomorrow."


    Linda didn''t put too much thought into the matter as she answered, "Alright."


    On the third day, Murong Shi finally received Xu Chuanchuan''s books.


    After cing the cardboard box on Murong Shi''s desk, Linda looked at the shippingbel and said, "What an interesting seller. They''re actually called Xu XX."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    "Huh? Passerby Shi? Is this your pen name on Taobao?"[1]


    "Mhm." Murong Shi gave a perfunctory response and dragged the delivery box to herself. She then said, "Thanks."


    Looking at the box curiously, Linda asked, "You''ve begun shopping online? What did you buy?"


    Instead of providing an answer, Murong Shi only gave Linda a silent stare.


    "..." Linda sensibly shut up and left the room.


    Afterward, Murong Shi unhurriedly dissected the package.


    There were six books inside the box, and she had read all six of them before. Randomly picking a book and flipping through it, she found that its quality was quite good. The cover art was refreshing, the character arts printed on the title page were cute, and the texture of the paper was excellent.


    With such excellent quality, it was no wonder why so many people were fighting for Xu Chuanchuan''s physical books. It was without a doubt a good present.


    Afterward, Murong Shi tore off the shippingbel from the delivery box and flushed it down the toilet, destroying the evidence. She then stuffed the box holding the six books into an empty paper bag previously used to store tea leaves.


    Nighttime.


    Passerby Shi: "I got the books. Thank you."


    I Love Mtang: "Wee~"


    This was thest conversation they had with each other. Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan no longer took the initiative to chat with Passerby Shi. Passerby Shi also tacitly stopped looking for her.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t find this situation to be strange since this wasn''t the first time this capricious tycoon had disappeared for long periods. This time, though, Passerby Shi did not appear even after one whole month had gone by.


    <em>Did she delete her app again?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan kept on thinking that her repeated probing attempts had touched upon Passerby Shi''s bottom line. Although she had already apologized for her actions, she still couldn''t help but feel uneasy.


    Typically, one month was more than enough for a person to forget about a stranger. However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t forget about Passerby Shi because the girls in her reader group would asionally bring up Passerby Shi''s name.


    Whenever Xu Chuanchuan saw Passerby Shi''s name appearing, she would always feel incredibly awkward.


    As Xu Chuanchuan tended to overthink things, she ended up making herself more and more uneasy. Eventually, she resorted to asking Ange for help.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m thinking of apologizing to her again, but she neveres on her QQ. I also can''t bring myself to meet her IRL. I''m afraid she''ll think I have impure motives."


    Ange: "I don''t understand. There are plenty of readers abandoning you every day, yet you think nothing of them. So, why are you getting all hung up over Passerby Shi''s departure all of a sudden?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m not hung up over it. I just feel guilty."


    Ange: "Guilty of what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I can''t say for certain. Hey, do you think it''s because I rejected her?"


    Ange: "What?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Here''s my conversation log with her. Help me analyze it. [Image]"


    Ange: "Holy shit! She actually asked you to be her girlfriend! Outrageous! You are mine!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Stop it!! (_)"


    TL Notes:


    [1]Taobao: The Amazon of China.

 Chapter 34: Pt.1

    Chapter 34: Pt.1


    By now, Xu Chuanchuan had already gotten used to Ange asionally dering ownership over her out of the blue. Typically, she would treat her words as a joke. However, some jokes would stop bing funny when repeated too often. Xu Chuanchua was also a person who tended to overthink matters, so the more she thought about it, the more afraid she became.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Ange, I''ll start to panic if you keep doing this. Are you really interested in me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had known Ange for six years now, and there was almost nothing they couldn''t talk about with each other. They even knew each other''s ount passwords. They were the closest of friends, and she was happy with the way things were right now. However, if she were to be asked if she could ept letting this rtionship evolve into something closer, the answer would be a definite "no."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan knew Ange was a lesbian, she wasn''t one, so


    Xu Chuanchuan felt anxiety welling up within her as she waited for a reply. For a moment, she was even afraid of hearing Ange''s answer.


    After waiting for roughly five minutes, she finally received a reply.


    Ange: "To tell you the truth, I have indeed fantasized about you initially. However, after my failed rtionship with Citrus, I realized that online rtionships are unreliable. Without spending time close to someone, you will never get to know a person''s true personality. Back then, I thought Citrus was cute and innocent, but only afterward did I discover how shallow of a person she is. She''s also someone who likes causing dramas behind the scenes. Despite being the same person, her personalities in the 2D and 3D worlds are vastly different from each other. This experience has truly given me a scare, so I think I''d better be careful."


    Xu Chuanchuan fell silent, unable to refute Ange''s words. This was because she knew she was simr to Fragrant Citrus. Her personalities in the real world and virtual world were vastly different as well.


    Xu Chuanchuan had never experienced romance through the inte before, so she didn''t find it appropriate toment on Ange''s experiences. However, Ange''s words did allow her to feel relieved.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That''s good, that''s good. You nearly scared me to death."


    Ange: "Actually, I''ve earnestly thought about what would happen if we were to get together. Setting aside whether you like women or not, just your personality already makes you a bad match for me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How so?"


    Ange: "You know how I''m quick-tempered, right? I prefer to do things decisively instead of dragging things out. You, on the other hand, are theplete opposite. You like to take things slowly and overthink matters. If the two of us were to get together, it is only a matter of time I run out of patience and explode, just like how I lost my patience with Citrus. There are a lot of ws in my personality. I hate trouble, and I don''t know how to take care of others. So, after thinking it over carefully, I feel that staying single isn''t such a bad option."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t say that. You''ll definitely find someone who loves you and deserves your love one day. [Hug]"


    Ange: "Strange. Weren''t we analyzing your problem? Why did the topic change to me instead?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...You were the one who interrupted me. You continue."


    Ange: "I''ve finished reading the conversation log, and I don''t see any problems with this Passerby Shi. This isn''t the first time a reader has teased you. She also doesn''t understand much about you. She''s probably just giving you a scare or toying with you by asking you to be her girlfriend. Why must you take it so seriously?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m not taking it seriously. o()o"


    Ange: "If not, why are you still thinking about it so much? Don''t tell me you''re going to fall in love with someone after just a few short conversations?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I won''t."


    Ange: "That settles it, then. Focus on your writing, maintain a distance with your readers, and stop thinking about nonsense."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Yes, yes, I''ve received your lesson. -_-||"


    After thinking things through, Xu Chuanchuan pushed this matter out of her mind and gradually forgot about Passerby Shi. That was until this capricious tycoon suddenly reappeared before her on one particr day.


    Passerby Shi: "Your physical books are well-made. I''ve already read through half of them."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but doubt her eyes when she saw the familiar avatar appearing in her chat list.


    I Love Mtang: "HiHello. "


    Passerby Shi: "Are you okay?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: ...


    Passerby Shi: "I''ve been busytely, so I didn''t have any time to get on the inte."


    Facts had proven that Xu Chuanchuan had indeed been overthinking matters once again.


    Xu Chuanchuan was so embarrassed that she didn''t know how to respond. After struggling for some time, she barely managed to find amon topic to talk bout: "There are some minor differences between the physical books'' content and the content published online. Did you notice them?"


    Passerby Shi: "Mhm. You''ve made quite a few changes. I also noticed that you''d added more details. Your characters and plot are more fleshed out."


    I Love Mtang: "Hehe, that''s right. I proofread the books myself when making the physical copies. After rereading the books, I found and edited many crudely described scenes and typos."


    Passerby Shi: "How thoughtful of you."


    I Love Mtang: "The physical books are meant to be gifts for others, so I naturally have to make them perfect. I''ve also kept a set for myself. [Shy]"


    Passerby Shi: "Can you give me a copy when you print another physical book in the future?"


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "Sure, but that will have to wait until I conclude this current book."


    Passerby Shi: "Thank you."


    Thank you?


    For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan doubted that the person she was conversing with was Passerby Shi herself. After all, how could the arrogant and imposing tycoon from before suddenly have such a gentle personality?


    <em>This must be a misconception.</em>


    I Love Mtang: "You''re wee. You''ve shown me so much support, so it''s only natural if I give it to you."


    Passerby Shi: "How long will it take before you finish this book?"


    I Love Mtang: "I can''t say for certain. My n is to write 100,000 words a month and 300,000 words in total. That will take at least three months. If I deviate from the original plotline, it might even take longer to finish..."


    Passerby Shi: "You''re updating too little each day. There''s not enough to read."


    Passerby Shi: "No need. I''m busy and don''t have time to read."


    I Love Mtang: "Oh..."


    Their conversation ended on a normal and peaceful note for the first time, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be surprised by this situation.


    Passerby Shi''sment was like a stone thrown into a still pond. In the blink of an eye, a bunch of replies had appeared under herment.


    I caught a live Darling Shi!


    Darling Shi, long time no see~


    Xu Chuanchuan was working a full-time job, so she could only write a limited number of words every day. Apart from the first day of mization, publishing 1,000 words a day was already her limit.


    After thement section started begging, the members of her reader group began begging as well.


    Xu Chuanchuan promptly stopped reading the messages in herment section and reader group, turned off herputer, and went to take a shower.


    After more than a month of renovations, the employee dormitories on the third floor were finally ready to amodate people. Linda also had the honor of adding the title of "dormitory manager" to her name, and she hurried to work out a proper management system and list of upants for the new dormitory. There were also some details she needed tomunicate with Murong Shi, so the two of them were currently having a discussion. Amidst their discussion, the phone sitting on the desk between them rang.


    When Linda helped pass the phone to Murong Shi, she saw the caller ID disyed on the screen and asked, "It''s Young Master Jiang. Do you want to pick it up?"


    With a look of indifference, Murong Shi extended her hand and said, "Give it to me."


    As soon as Murong Shi connected the call, she heard Jiang Shaohua furiously saying, "Murong, you need to get your receptionist reced! Why is she stopping me every time I visit?!"


    Murong Shi turned to the surveince monitor beside her and erged the video showing the situation at the front desk. She then saw Jiang Shaohua in his suit standing in front of the front desk and giving her a call.


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi said, "Pass your phone to the receptionist. I''ll talk to her."


    Very quickly, a timid voice came from the other end of the phone, "Miss Murong, this Mr. Jiang here says he is"


    Interrupting the receptionist, Murong Shi said, "Just let him in from now on."


    "Okay, I understand."


    When Linda saw Murong Shi storing her phone away, she asked, "Since Young Master Jiang ising, how about you two have your conversation first?"


    "It''s fine. Continue with what you have to say. Also, let me have a look at the list of applicants."


    After handing Murong Shi a list, Linda said, "Currently, apart from several of the Business Department''s fresh graduates, two other single employees have applied. Once they move in, should we have the Finance Department deduct their monthly housing allowance from their sries?"


    "Mhm, it has to be deducted." Linda had already assigned all applicants to a room. After reading through the list, Murong Shi asked, "Howe Xu Chuanchuan did not apply?"


    "You mean Little Xu? I talked to her about it before, and she says she''s renting an apartment outside. Maybe her rental contract hasn''t expired yet."


    Murong Shi remained silent.


    Looking at Murong Shi''s face, Linda hesitantly said, "You seem to be very concerned about Little Xu."

 Chapter 34: Pt.2

    Chapter 34: Pt.2


    "You seem to be very concerned about Little Xu."


    "Me? Concerned about her?" Murong Shi''s lips curled up when she heard Linda''s words. Letting out a soft chuckle, she asked, "In what way do you see me being concerned about her?"


    Everyone in thepany was afraid of Murong Shi, and even Linda was no exception. However, after interacting with Murong Shi for long periods, Linda realized that Murong Shi was a considerably reasonable leader. She also learned what she could and couldn''t say in front of Murong Shi.


    Putting on a smile, Linda carefully said, "You''ve shared a meal with her, you''ve messaged me to return sooner to remove the paint from her hair, and you''re now asking why she didn''t apply for the dorm as well. Did you not do all these things because you are concerned about her?"


    Initially, Linda had suspected that Murong Shi was thinking of promoting Xu Chuanchuan into her assistant. However, sheter received verification from Murong Shi herself that this wasn''t the case. While this was aforting fact, Linda also couldn''t help but grow confused. For a time, she even wondered if Xu Chuanchuan was a rtive of the Murong household. Otherwise, why would Murong Shi repeatedly seek her out for no good reason?


    Murong Shi was slightly stunned. After pondering in silence for a moment, she said, "Aunt Lian prepared that meal for her because she helped Aunt Lian once. The paint incident was your fault, to begin with, so shouldn''t you take responsibility for it? As for the dormitory, she''s my employee. Is it strange for me to ask about her?"


    When Linda noticed Murong Shi narrowing her eyes, which was an indicator that she was about to lose her temper, Linda sensibly put a stop to the topic and fawningly said, "No, no, it''s not strange at all."


    After secretly wiping away her cold sweat, Linda changed the topic and asked, "It''s been some time already. Why hasn''t Young Master Jiang arrived yet?"


    Linda then nced at the surveince monitor and found that Jiang Shaohua was no longer standing before the front desk. After looking through the other surveince videos, she finally found his familiar figure standing in the corridor outside Murong Shi''s office. At this time, though, Jiang Shaohua wasn''t alone. Instead, a woman was standing in front of him. Currently, this woman appeared unnatural and did not seem to be particrly willing to converse with Jiang Shaohua.


    Linda quickly recognized the woman to be Xu Chuanchuan. After sneaking a nce at Murong Shi, she looked back to the video and asked in surprise, "What are they doing?"


    Frowning, Murong Shi said, "Call him in."


    "Oh, okay." Linda quickly left the room and approached Jiang Shaohua and Xu Chuanchuan. "Young Master Jiang, why aren''t youing in? What are you talking about with our Little Xu?"


    Seeing that someone had finallye to save her, Xu Chuanchuan sent Linda a look of gratitude. She then snuck away while Jiang Shaohua wasn''t paying attention to her.


    When Jiang Shaohua saw Xu Chuanchuan running away, he called out to her, "Prettydy, what are you afraid of? I won''t eat you! Come back and chat with me!"


    However, Xu Chuanchuan did not respond and quickly disappeared into the Engineering Department''s office.


    While spitting at Jiang Shaohua in her mind, Linda smiled like a beautiful flower and politely said, "Young Master Jiang, are you perhaps interested in our Little Xu?"


    Stroking back his glossy hair, Jiang Shaohua faked a sigh and said, "So what if I''m interested? It''s not like I cany my hands on her. Once Murong gets angry, she''s no different than a tigress."


    Her lips twitching, Linda said, "It''s good that you''re aware of that. Pleasee in."


    After Jiang Shaohua entered the office, Linda shut the door behind him and left to do some other work.


    Looking up at the person who just entered, Murong Shi indifferently said, "I''m warning you. This isn''t a ce for you to pick up girls."


    Jiang Shaohua leisurely found himself a seat in the lounge area and grabbed the teapot on the coffee table. While pouring himself a cup of tea, he said in annoyance, "I know, I know. You don''t have to keep rambling about it."


    In a cold tone, Murnog Shi asked, "Why did you still mess around just now, then?"


    After taking a sip of the tea, Jiang Shaohua quickly put it aside because of its astringent taste. He then leisurely said, "You mean that chick just now? I didn''t n to do anything to her. I just think that she looks familiar, so I decided to have a casual chat with her."


    Smiling contemptuously, Murong Shi said, "You toyed with her one and a half months ago. She was manning the front desk back then."


    Tilting his head, Jiang Shaohua racked his mind and said, "Is that so? Who would remember something from that long ago? What I meant to say is that she resembles someone I saw on the inte."


    "The inte?"


    "A female streamer. You wouldn''t know even if I told you about it," Jiang Shaohua said as he stood up and approached the water dispenser.


    Following his movements with her eyes, Murong Shi asked, "Did youe here to get a drink?"


    With his back facing her, Jiang Shaohua said, "I met your dad yesterday. He told me that you''d managed this ce quite well recently, so I got curious and came to take a look. Murong, wouldn''t it be better if you just took on an easy job at your dad''spany? Is there a need to work so hard like this every day?"


    "I''m happy to do so."


    Wandering his way up to Murong Shi''s desk, Jiang Shaohua stared at Murong Shi''s face for some time before shaking his head and saying, "Women who are toopetitive aren''t cute."


    Unfazed by Jiang Shaohua''sment, Murong Shi said, "Whether I''m cute or not is none of your concern. I don''t need your love."


    After taking a gulp of water and wiping the residue off his lips, Jiang Shaohuaughed and said, "I can love anyone but you. You''re too scary of a woman. Marrying you will be equivalent to bringing a Female Yaksha home. I''d rather Hey"


    Partway through his words, Murong Shi had suddenly tossed a pen at his face. And although he had sessfully avoided the flying projectile, he ended up spilling the water in his cup all over the floor.


    His face crumpling up in anger, Jiang Shaohua shouted, "I''ll fight you to death if you disfigure me!"


    Paying no heed to Jiang Shaohua''s outburst, Murong Shi stared at him quietly for some time. She then changed the topic and said, "Fang Qin''sing back."


    His expression stagnating, Jiang Shaohua asked, "When?"


    "She still hasn''t decided on the specific date, but she should be back by next month."


    Putting on a serious expression, Jiang Shaohua said, "Alright. Make sure to notify me when she''s back. Even so, this fellow really is something. She wentpletely silent for three whole years. I miss her quite a bit now."


    Afterward, Jiang Shaohua toured the newly-refurbished employee dormitories under Linda''s lead. Before he left thepany, he had coincidentally spotted Xu Chuanchuan. Approaching her withrge strides, he shouted, "Prettydy!"


    Xu Chuanchuan had just entered the printing room looking to photocopy some documents. When she heard Jiang Shaohua suddenly calling out to her, she was so surprised that she dropped the several dozen sheets of paper she held. And when she recognized that the other party was Jiang Shaohua, herplexion quickly changed as she stepped back warily and asked, "W-What do you want with me again?"


    Pointing at Xu Chuanchuan''s reddened cheeks, Jiang Shaohuaughed and said, "Haha, you look adorable. Also, I wasn''t lying to you before. The live streaming application I downloaded recently has a streamer that looks a lot like you. Though that girl is much more outgoing than you, and her mouth is like a machine gun when she starts speaking."


    While inwardly cursing at Jiang Shaohua, Xu Chuanchuan silently picked up the documents she dropped.


    "Do you need my help?" Jiang Shaohua offered in a gentle tone.


    "No need," Xu Chuanchuan replied stiffly.


    Fortunately, Jiang Shaohua only limited his actions to verbal teasing and nothing more. While Xu Chuanchuan quietly picked up her documents, she heard a cold voiceing from nearby, "Why are you still here?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked up, what entered her eyes was Murong Shi and Linda.


    Currently, Murong Shi had her arms wrapped around her chest and an unhappy expression on her face.


    For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan reacted as if she had just seen her savior. The next second, though, she recalled Jiang Shaohua''s rtionship with Murong Shi. Afraid that Murong Shi would misunderstand, she quickly distanced herself from Jiang Shaohua and sped up her hands.


    Showing no signs of fear, Jiang Shaohua shrugged and casually said, "I just wanted to say hi before I left."


    Sending Jiang Shaohua a re, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself, <em>I''m not even familiar with you.</em>


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s re, Jiang Shaohua beamed a bright smile and waved at her, saying, "I''ll be leaving now, prettydy. I''ll see you next time."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    At this time, Murong Shi spoke to Linda, who stood behind her, "See him off. Come back only after you''ve made sure he''s left the entrance."


    Jiang Shaohua protested, "Hey, hey, hey, I''m not a criminal."


    Sneering, Murong Shi said, "I''m preventing you from harming others."


    Instead of retorting, Jiang Shaohua walked up to Linda and said, "Poor Linda, your boss is such a cruel person to have you keep an eye on me. Is she not afraid I''ll bring harm to you?"


    Jiang Shaohua''s words exasperated Linda. Putting on a reserved smile, she said, "It''s fine, Young Master Jiang. I already have a boyfriend."


    "What of it?"


    Her smile widening, Linda said slowly and clearly, "Oh, he''s a bodybuilding trainer. He has an eight-pack, and his arms are thicker than your thighs."


    In response, Jiang Shaohua grunted and left in a huff.


    Halfway through picking up the dropped documents, Xu Chuanchuan heard the sound of shoes tapping against the floor. Just when she thought everyone had left, she suddenly saw a slim and fair arm appearing in her vision and picking up the documents on the ground.


    Looking up, Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi''s face within proximity of her. Her heart tensing up, she said, "I can do it by myself."


    Pretending not to hear Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Murong Shi continued picking up the fallen documents one after another.


    When Xu Chuanchaun saw Murong Shi''s eyes hidden under her long eyshes, she secretly eximed to herself, <em>What beautiful eyes. </em>After calming herself, she softly said, "Thank you."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t used to receiving help from Murong Shi. Amidst her daze, the documents she had picked up started sliding down her chest. Just when the documents were about to scatter all over the floor again


    Murong Shi swiftly reacted and gave Xu Chuanchuan a hand, preventing another tragedy from urring.


    However, amidst her panic, Xu Chuanchuan had tightened the arm holding the papers to her chest. This, in turn, led to her hugging the helping hand Murong Shi hand had offered.


    With their exposed skin making physical contact with each other, Xu Chuanchuan could feel a warm and subtle sensationing from Murong Shi''s arm. However, this wasn''t the most important point. The key thing in this situation was that Murong Shi''s slender fingers were poking at her breasts


    Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks flushed red, and she was at a loss on what to do for some time. If she released Murong Shi''s arm, the documents she had collected would fall to the ground again. If she didn''t release Murong Shi''s arm, they would remain stuck in this awkward posture.


    Murong Shi probably also didn''t expect to be put into such a situation, a trace of surprise shing across her typically calm eyes. And when she realized that the soft sensation she felt from the fingertips originated from Xu Chuanchuan''s breasts, she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    Xu Chuanchuan made a low cough out of embarrassment.


    Immediately, Murong Shi regained her calm and slowly withdrew her hand from Xu Chuanchuan''s embrace. She then resumed picking up the scattered documents.


    Xu Chuanchuan was incapable of behaving as calmly as Murong Shi, so her face remained flushed and heated even after Murong Shi had retracted her arm. To prevent another ident from happening, she ced the collected documents aside first before silently burying her head into her knees.


    Amidst the silence, Xu Chuanchuan could hear her heart thumping furiously. At this time, she was so nervous that even her throat had be parched. And when she noticed Murong Shi looking up toward her, her heartbeat started elerating even further.


    Looking at the blushing woman in front of her, Murong Shi smirked and said, "We''re both women. What you have, I do too. What''s there to be embarrassed about?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wished to cry but had no tears to do so. She also couldn''t understand why she was blushing.


    Hearing no response, Murong Shi casually added, "Not to mention, yours are smaller than mine. With how t they are, there''s nothing really to take advantage of."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Is there a need tond such an emotional blow?</em>

 Chapter 35: Pt.1

    Chapter 35: Pt.1


    Every office had a small photocopier of its own. However, the Engineering Department''s photocopier just so happened to have run out of ink today, so Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to photocopy her documents in the printing room.


    The printing room was spacious, and it housed only arge photocopier, a desktopputer, and some cabs holding nk papers of various sizes. Because of how empty the room was, everyone within the room could hear the sounds made inside the room. Hence, to avoid embarrassing herself even further, Xu Chuanchuan stifled her breath and breathed as quietly as possible.


    Even after some time had passed, nobody else entered the printing room.


    After being dumbfounded by Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan decided to y deaf, lowering her head and pretending to have never heard what Murong Shi had said.


    Despite there being only several dozen sheets of paper, Xu Chuanchuan felt that as if there were several thousand of them. No matter how many she picked up, there didn''t seem to be an end to them.


    Rarely anyone used the printing room, so there was no air conditioning here. After some time had passed, sweat started seeping out of the pores on Xu Chuanchuan''s nose. Murong Shi, on the other hand, appeared to be unaware of the heat as she continued calmly picking up the scattered papers one after another.


    While Murong Shi wasn''t paying attention, Xu Chuanchuan secretly wiped her sweat with her sleeve, only to suddenly hear Murong Shi asking, "The dormitory''s renovation isplete. Do you not n to move in?"


    It took a while for Xu Chuanchuan to react to Murong Shi''s words. Putting on a troubled smile, she said, "I find the house I''m currently renting outside to be quite nice."


    "Do you prefer to live alone?"


    "Ah, that''s right."


    "Don''t you find it boring?"


    "Sometimes But it''s not bad. I can watch videos when I''m bored."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s sweat started umting again, and she very much wished to wipe it off.


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks that remained flushed, Murong Shi asked, "Aren''t you worried for your safety if you live in such a ce by yourself?"


    Stunned by Murong Shi''s concern, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Safety? I''m not worried. I''ve been living there for nearly two years now, and it has always been safe."


    Murong Shi did not respond this time, her hands never stopping even once throughout the entire conversation.


    With neither of the two taking the initiative to strike up a conversation, the awkward silence returned. To avoid this atmosphere, Xu Chuanchuan pondered for a moment and said, "Myndlord is a woman, and she designed the entire apartmentplex herself. She''s a nice person, and she''s been very good to me."


    Nonchntly sending Xu Chuanchuan a nce, Murong Shi said, "I''ve never rented an apartment before, but I saw that your ce gets very dark at night. There are also plenty of trees outside with not a single street light. Also, not only are you living by yourself, but you''re even living on the first floor."


    After living in the apartment for two years, Xu Chuanchuan had long since treated the ce as half a home. Thendlord had also adequately renovated the ce, and it had all the necessary household appliances. So, she found living there quitefortable.


    Also, Xu Chuanchuan found it convenient to live on the first floor as she could carry her bicycle straight into her home; she wouldn''t have to climb any stairs. However, she couldn''t help but shudder a little after hearing Murong Shi''s analysis of her home''s safety. Shrinking her neck a little, she said, "It''s fine. I don''t usually go out at night."


    When Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan again, the emotions in her eyes had turned a lot colder, her sharp and slender eyes seemingly saying, "What a waste of breath. Do whatever you want, then."


    <em>Maybe I''m reading too deeply into the matter. </em>Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly looked away, unsure of what to say at the moment.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan picked up the final sheet of paper, and she couldn''t help but sigh in relief. Without looking at the expression on Murong Shi''s face, she patted the dust off the documents and thanked Murong Shi in a soft tone.


    Initially, the heat on Xu Chuanchuan''s face had already cooled down a little. However, when she sensed Murong Shi''s gaze wandering on her, her face started heating up once more. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t understand why Murong Shi was still standing around. Tucking the stack of documents into her arms, she stammered, "I still have some documents I need to copy."


    After cing the documents into the photocopier, Xu Chuanchuan sullenly tapped the buttons on the machine, not noticing the expression Murong Shi was making behind her.


    When Xu Chuanchuan heard the clicking sound of high heels, she noticed Murong Shi''s long legs moving through the corner of her eye. However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s confusion, Murong Shi moved closer to her instead of leaving the room.


    While Xu Chuanchuan wondered what was going on, she heard Murong Shi saying, "Jiang Shaohua has a somewhat detestable mouth. Did he do anything to you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she heard Murong Shi''s question. Her back stiffening, she urgently replied, "No! I don''t know what he said at all! Just like what you saw, I paid him no attention at all!"


    Murong Shi grinned slightly behind Xu Chuanchuan. In a casual tone, she said, "Maybe he''s taken a liking to you."


    Although Murong Shi had spoken casually, Xu Chuanchuan grew flustered when she heard those words. Turning around in a panic, she said, "Miss Murong, I"


    "You don''t need to exin. I''m not suspecting you," Murong Shi interrupted.


    Despite these words, Xu Chuanchuan felt even more nervous than before.


    Xu Chuanchuan could tell that Murong Shi''s rtionship with Jiang Shaohua wasn''t good by any means. Also, for some inexplicable reason, she felt that the two weren''t actually a couple at all. After all, shouldn''t couples be more intimate with each other? Yet, Murong Shi and Jiang Shaohua''s behavior were very strange. Every time they spoke to each other, they wouldce their words with gunpowder. The gaze they used to look at each other also held not the slightest hint of affection. Rather than a couple, they looked more like long-time enemies instead.


    However, no matter how terrible a rtionship Murong Shi had with Jiang Shaohua, with her vengeful personality, she would most likely explode when seeing her boyfriend teasing another woman.


    Now that Jiang Shaohua had left, what worried Xu Chuanchuan was that Murong Shi might vent her anger on her instead. Wouldn''t it be the worst of luck if something like that happened?


    Hence, although Murong Shi had said she needn''t exin, Xu Chuanchuan still anxiously said, "Please rest assured. I''ll stay as far away as possible the next time I see him."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help but smile when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s promise. "No need to avoid him. If he dares to do anything to you next time, you can report it to me directly."


    <em>And then you''ll ruthlessly take care of him?</em>


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently recalled the sight of Murong Shi pping Jiang Shaohua and sshing Coke into his face. Her body shuddered at this memory, and she hurriedly nodded in affirmation.


    "I''ll be taking my leave now."


    When the photocopier started generating rhythmic sounds, Xu Chuanchuan snapped back to reality. And when her eyes fell upon Murong Shi''s delicate back, blood momentarily flooded into her head as she shouted, "Miss Murong"


    Murong Shi turned around. "Hmm?"


    Xu Chuanchuan took a moment to look at the entrance first. After verifying that nobody was walking by the printing room, she looked back to Murong Shi and said in a suppressed voice, "I think that Young Master Jiang doesn''t deserve you at all."


    Her expression unwavering, Murong Shi said, "What?"


    "...He''ll flirt with any woman he deems to be slightly beautiful. He won''t hold back even when he''s in front of you. Don''t you think this is too much?"


    A hint of interest appeared in Murong Shi''s eyes. Instead of answering Xu Chuanchuan''s question, Murong Shi said, "Slightly beautiful? It seems you''re quite confident in yourself. How many points will you give yourself in terms of attractiveness?"


    Xu Chuanchuan fell into a daze for a few seconds at Murong Shi''s question. Her face then turned as red as a tomato as she stammered, "I didn''t mean it like that. How am I attractive What I mean is, aside from myself, he''ll flirt with any woman he finds attractive"


    Murong Shi''s lips curled up as she leisurely asked, "So what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily stunned by Murong Shi''s calm response. "Don''t you care about it even a little?"


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi evaded the actual topic and jokingly said, "After listening to your words, I suddenly have the urge to drag him back and give him a beating."


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously looked at Murong Shi''s hands and slender fingers. Although Murong Shi had kept her fingernails short, she had trimmed them to have quite the sharp edge. And while she had never touched Murong Shi''s palms before, they looked quite skinny from her perspective. Inwardly, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself, <em>Getting pped by one of these hands must hurt a lot.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had initially thought to warn Murong Shi that Jiang Shaohua wasn''t a good person. However, she now felt that her words were redundant.


    Murong Shi wasn''t blind. She had personally seen Jiang Shaohua hugging another woman before. She had even seen Jiang Shaohua trying to flirt with Xu Chuanchuan. After all these incidents, how could Murong Shi not see through Jiang Shaohua''s personality?


    <em>This is bad. Will she think I''m nosy?</em>


    Now that the conversation had reached this point, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should end it. After the photocopier finished copying thest document, silence enveloped the printing room once more.


    Xu Chuanchuan started regretting her rash actions now. She grew even more afraid when she failed to see any expressions on Murong Shi''s face. Lowering her head, she timidly said, "I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have been so nosy."


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s slightly trembling eyshes, Murong Shi softly said, "I''ve long since known that he wasn''t anything good. Even so, thank you for warning me."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned. Murong Shi didn''t get angry at her?


    Moreover, not only did Murong Shi not get angry, but there was even a hint of a smile in her eyes.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly asked, "Since you know he''s such a person, why haven''t you"


    Broken up yet?


    Xu Chuanchuan found herself unable to say thesest few words.


    However, Murong Shi appeared to have interpreted Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts. Her beautiful eyes narrowing, Murong Shi pondered briefly before saying, "You''re right. Letting this situation continue will indeed be a problem. I''ll have to find the right timing to dump him."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should follow up these words.


    Lightly sweeping her gaze across Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi asked in a casual tone, "Since you find Jiang Shaohua unworthy of me, what kind of person do you think is worthy of me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was once again confused. She still wasn''t familiar with Murong Shi to such an extent, so there shouldn''t be a reason why Murong Shi would seek her opinion on such a private matter.


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt as if she had just shot herself in the foot, and she couldn''t help but wail inwardly. On the surface, though, she put on a forced smile and said, "How would I know that?"


    Murong Shi raised an eyebrow at Xu Chuanchuan''s answer, her reaction making it seem as if she wouldn''t be satisfied until she received a proper answer.


    A drop of hot sweat flowed down her right cheek to her chin, but Xu Chuanchuan dared not wipe it. After swallowing the saliva in her mouth with great difficulty, she looked at Murong Shi''s near-perfect facial features and held back her embarrassment as she said, "Miss Murong, you have both looks and money. Anyone deserving of you should at least be a handsome man with a noble character, sessful career"

 Chapter 35: Pt.2

    Chapter 35: Pt.2


    "Miss Murong, you have both looks and money. Anyone deserving of you should at least be a handsome man with a noble character, sessful career"


    After writing the bootlicking essay, Xu Chuanchuan found that she was getting better and better at kissing ass. Though, she wasn''t sure if this was a good thing or a bad thing.


    Unfortunately, Murong Shi still appeared unsatisfied with Xu Chuanchuan''s answer as she snorted and said, "The type of person you mentioned isn''t my type at all."


    "Huh?"


    However, Murong Shi did not seem to want to continue on this topic as she turned around and left, leaving Xu Chuanchuan standing idly in the printing room.


    The weather had been cloudy recently, and it would rain from time to time. While Xu Chuanchuan didn''t hate the rain since it cooled things off, the rain became a great inconvenience when she was trying to get home on her bicycle.


    When Xu Chuanchuan got off work at six, the sky was already dark. When she left home this morning, she saw the weather forecast stating that heavy rain would start around seven o''clock. So, after taking a look at the sky, she hurriedly got to her bicycle and pushed it out of the shed. However, before she could hop onto the bike, she heard someone calling for her.


    "Little Xu, it''s going to rain soon, yet you still dare to ride your bike? Why don''t I bring you home in my car?"


    Looking toward the source of the voice, Xu Chuanchuan found that the person calling her was the male employee who had invited her to his birthday celebration previously. Without putting too much thought into the matter, she refused his offer, "No need."


    Another male employee sat on the passenger seat of the car. When he extended his neck and saw Xu Chuanchuan''s tattered bicycle, he clicked his tongue and said, "Little Xu, your bike''s already in tatters. You should get a new one."


    Smiling awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "But it still isn''t broken yet. I can still ride it fairly well."


    The two men in the carughed in amusement at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. The male employee seated at the back of the vehicle then chimed in and said, "It''s tough for a girl to ride a bicycle to work every day. You should quickly find yourself a boyfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan maintained her smile and did not reply. However, as the car was blocking her way, she couldn''t exactly leave.


    "As it so happens, Xiao Li just broke up with his girlfriend. He''s also quite an excellent kid. He has a high sry, a car, and a house. Why don''t you consider him? If you two get together, he can send you to work and fetch you home in the future."


    Xiao Li referred to the male colleague who had his birthday before.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t aware that Xiao Li had broken up with his girlfriend. If she had to be honest, Xiao Li was quite good-looking. He had a clean and handsome face like Jiang Shaohua. Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t interested in him. When Xiao Li stared at her, she would only feel shaky and ufortable.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan noticed a ck car slowly approaching out of the corner of her eye. Turning to look at the car, she found two women seated in it. Linda sat in the driver seat, while Murong Shi sat in the passenger seat. Currently, the two of them were staring at the car ahead of them.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she recalled the incident in the printing room this afternoon. Hurriedly moving her gaze away, she said to Xiao Li, "Miss Murong''s car is behind. You should stop blocking the road."


    Upon hearing the words "Miss Murong," Xiao Li''s smile disappeared. After taking a look at his rearview mirror, he immediately stepped on the elerator.


    After Xiao Li left, Xu Chuanchuan remained standing still as she watched the ck car drive up to her. Just when it was about to drive past her, the car stopped, and Linda greeted her, "Little Xu, it''s going to rain soon."


    Xu Chuanchuan responded with a sweet smile and said, "I know. I''ll leave after you."


    From start to finish, Xu Chuanchuan dared not look at Murong Shi for even a moment.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she had been cursed. Whenever she saw that pair of thin and long eyes, her heartbeat would elerate. She had never experienced such a feeling before. However, she felt that it must be rted to the incident where Murong Shi "identally" touched her chest today


    The weather forecast was quite urate. During the 20-minute cycle home, not a drop of rain fell on Xu Chuanchuan''s body.


    After arriving back home, the first thing Xu Chuanchuan did was to get herself a carton of cultured milk. However, when she opened the refrigerator, she found that she had run out of cultured milk. The nearest supermarket was only five minutes away by foot. Seeing that it wasn''t raining yet, she decided to restock on some cultured milk.


    There were few people in the supermarket at this time. While Xu Chuanchuan was attentively checking the production date of the cultured milk on disy, someone suddenly approached her. Thinking that she was blocking the way, she leaned into the disy shelves and resumed inspecting the cultured milk cartons.


    However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, the other person moved closer to her. When she sensed a stream of hot air hitting the back of her neck, she hurriedly turned around and saw the magnified face of an unfamiliar man. Frightened, she yelled, "What are you doing?!"


    The man looked to be in his early 40s. He had messy hair, a repulsive face, and shifty eyes. His body smelled of sweat, and he was currently staring at her with an extremely vulgar smile.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw the man extending a sleazy hand toward her, she was so frightened that her face paled. After grabbing two packs of cultured milk, she promptly ran for the checkout.


    Xu Chuanchuan only brought her phone with her. While paying via WeChat Pay, she sensed a searing gaze scanning her body without restraint. Goosebumps rose all over her body, and she ended up mistyping her password several times.


    Afterpleting her payment, she fled the supermarket without even looking back. She then ran back to her apartment as if she was running for her life, shut the door with a "bang," and locked it.


    Xu Chuanchuan panted heavily by the door. When she recalled the sleazy man''s vulgar expression, she felt both disgust and fear.


    After this incident, she no longer dared to order takeout. Instead, she boiled some water and cooked herself some instant noodles.


    While sipping on some cultured milk on the bed, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly recalled the analysis Murong Shi made regarding her rented apartment''sck of safety this afternoon. She had been living peacefully in this ce for the past two years. Yet, as soon as Murong Shi gave her analysis, she had immediatelye across a pervert.


    Either Murong Shi was omniscient, or she had a very unlucky mouth. Xu Chuanchuan was confident it was thetter.


    After finishing her cultured milk, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t calm down. She felt that she needed to vent this matter to someone. Opening up her reader group, she typed a message and sent it: "I just met a pervert when out buying cultured milk at a supermarket! I nearly got scared to death! Girls, make sure to be careful when going out in the future! You must stay alert when someonees close to you! There are too many bad guys out there now!!!"


    Many people in the group immediately asked if she was okay.


    Xu Chuanchuan then sent another message: "Thank you for your concerns, everyone. Fortunately, I reacted and ran away quickly."


    Lord, hugs.


    Lord, don''t be afraid. Send me your address, and I''ll fly over to protect you right away!


    Lord, don''t go to the supermarket from now on. Just shop online.


    Online shopping isn''t necessarily safe, either. Have you never heard of perverted couriers before?


    Don''t scare me like that. I love online shopping. _(:)_


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a lot better after beingforted by her readers. When she tapped on Ange''s avatar and saw that her status was set to "Busy," she guessed that the other party was in the midst of writing.


    While swiping her finger across the screen, she identally tapped on Passerby Shi''s avatar and found that the capricious tycoon was online.


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t bother the other party. She felt that what Ange said was correct. Authors should maintain a certain distance from their readers. Otherwise, overstepping this boundary would certainly lead to trouble.


    In the blink of an eye, the unread message counter for her reader group had reached 99+. Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t keep up with the barrage of messages, she saw a notification stating that someone had responded to the first message she sent.


    To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, the person who replied was Passerby Shi.


    Get yourself a boyfriend.


    Clicking into the group chat, Xu Chuanchuan finally understood why the number of unread messages had suddenly skyrocketed. This was because a certain someone had decided to show up.


    Caught me a live Darling Shi!


    Hold her down! Hold her down! Don''t let her get away!


    Darling Shi, have you eaten yet?


    Darling Shi is right. Lord, you should quickly find yourself a boyfriend. @I Love Mtang


    After getting teased by Passerby Shi, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her anxiety disappearing, and she couldn''t help butugh. Along with Passerby Shi''s message, the conversation in the reader group had also changed from "How girls can protect themselves" to "Author, hurry up and find a boyfriend."


    However, Passerby Shi herself had disappeared after leaving her message. And as everyone in the group knew that she wasn''t fond of speaking in the group, they quickly started having their own conversations a short momentter.


    Sometimeter, Ange was finally done with her daily writing. When she saw the discussion held in Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group, she sent a private message to Xu Chuanchuan asking about her well-being.


    After Xu Chuanchuan described the situation in detail to her, Ange thoughtfully said, "I''m still short of 5,000."[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You head inside first. I''ll turn on myputer and join you right away."


    Ange: "Mhm."


    Ange had created a room inside the "Dark Room"[2] writing software, and the two of them would frequently have writing sessions inside. And because Ange was writing for a living, she needed to write at least 10,000 words each day. Fortunately, her writing speed was fast, and she could typicallyplete five to six thousand words in two hours. And by the time Angepleted the 5,000 words she promised, she found that Xu Chuanchuan had only written around 2,000 words.


    Xu Chuanchuan had always been troubled by her slow writing speed. However, she truly couldn''t find a way to improve it. The books she wrote were sweet novels. She had to mull over every word she wrote to describe the feelings of the two female protagonists in detail, so she couldn''t write quickly.


    Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan only had a daily quota of 3,000 words.


    Because of the little episode Xu Chuanchuan experienced today, she couldn''t maintain her calm the entire time. As a result, it was already midnight by the time shepleted her 3,000-word quota. Both her back and her eyes had also be sore. Rubbing her shriveled stomach, she suddenly realized that she had forgotten about the instant noodles she had cooked just now.


    By now, the noodles had long since cooled down and turned into a soggy pile. However, probably because of her hunger, she actually found the cold and soggy noodles delicious. She had even finished the little broth that remained.


    Maybe it was because she had shared her unfortunate encounter in the reader group today, but she had received many donations today. She had to scroll down quite a while before she managed to reach the end of thement section. Feeling that she seemed to have missed something midway, she scrolled up a little and found a familiar ID in thement section.


    Passerby Shi had sent another Deep-water Torpedo, which was paired with the followingment: "The five-year-old Xiao Guaiguai already has a male confidante, yet a certain pitiful author is still single."


    "<em>Pft</em>" Xu Chuanchuan sprayed some spittle onto her phone.


    Yet, instead of properlymenting about this scene, a certain someone had taken advantage of this scene to dig at Xu Chuanchuan''s wounds!


    Lying on the bed, Xu Chuanchuanmented,<em> First it was Murong Shi, now it was Passerby Shi Was I born to be enemies with anyone who has the word "Shi" in their names?</em>


    TL Notes:


    [1]I''m still short of 5,000: Ange said this sentence in consideration of Xu Chuanchuan. What she means by this is that she would apany Xu Chuanchuan in a writing session, even though she has already finished her daily writing quota.


    [2]Dark Room(): This is a writing software that helps writers focus on their work. I''m not sure if this is true, but ording to the information Baidu provided, users of the program can set a writing quota for each session, and before meeting this quota, users will not be able to close the program. So, this program basically helps you cope with distractions such as alt-tabbing to watch youtube. *cough*

 Chapter 36: Pt.1

    Chapter 36: Pt.1


    Since young, Xu Chuanchuan had never grown to show any strengths, and the 25 years of life she experienced had always been uneventful. However, recently, she noticed that her life had started treading on a bumpy road.


    To be precise, she found that she seemed to be targeted.


    Her encounter with the sleazy man in the supermarketst time had left a trauma in her heart, so she had thoroughly stopped visiting that supermarket.


    Initially, she believed that the incident was just a one-time thing. However, one day, when she was thinking of getting breakfast while on her way to work, she came across that man again.


    If it were a normal encounter, she would''ve subconsciously ignored the man and just rode away. However, the man''s prating gaze and lecherous smile were simply impossible to ignore.


    Upon noticing this man, Xu Chuanchuan was so frightened that she forgot all her thoughts about breakfast and fled straight to her workce. This incident also ended up distracting her for the entire morning.


    Fortunately, she had some things to do in the afternoon, so she managed to forget about the incident for the rest of the day.


    When evening arrived, Xu Chuanchuan got off work and returned to her rented apartment. Just as she was about to unlock the door, she suddenly thought of the lecherous man she encountered in the morning. She then subconsciously turned around and looked back.


    To her horror, someone was standing underneath a tree a short distance away from her!


    It was that lecherous man again!


    The lecherous man wore shorts and a tank top. He had his trademark triangr eyes staring straight at her, pairing it with a smile carrying bad intentions.


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped and screamed, "Y-Y-You! Why are you stalking me?!"


    The lecherous man looked around for a moment. After verifying that nobody was around, he suddenly started approaching Xu Chuanchuan with quick steps.


    This scene scared Xu Chuanchuan out of her mind. Throwing caution to the wind, she agilely hopped onto her bike and fled away from the area.


    She wasn''t certain if that lecherous man was still lingering near her residence, so she dared not return home that day. As a result, she was forced to take shelter in a nearby hotel for the night.


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had encountered such a situation. It was also her first time staying in a hotel by herself, so she was at her wit''s end right now.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan had thought to give Xu Xiangxiang a call. However, she quickly recalled how heartless and spoiled her little sister was, and the only thing she was good at was making noise. What could such a person possibly do to help?


    Xu Chuanchuan''s contact list was pitifully short. In this critical moment, she realized just how lonely and helpless she was. With no better options avable, she went online and cried for help.


    Ange was someone who rarely left her home, so she had nevere across such a situation herself. After consoling Xu Chuanchuan for some time, she eventually suggested, "How about making a police report?"


    The unfamiliar hotel room only served to worsen the situation. The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about the matter, the more afraid she became. At this point, she was so afraid that she didn''t even dare to take a shower. She also didn''t have a change of clothes. When it was time for bed, she made sure to keep the lights on, though she never managed to get any actual sleep the entire night.


    The following day, Xu Chuanchuan gave her department chief a call and applied for a one-hour leave to make a police report.


    When the police officer was done listening to her case, he said, "If you only suspect that someone is stalking you and have not been threatened or suffered any property damage, then that isn''t enough evidence to establish a case."


    Panicking, Xu Chuanchuan said, "What should I do, then? I''ve encountered him three times already. He was following me the entire day yesterday, and I don''t even dare to return home now."


    The officer asked, "Where do you live?"


    Xu Chuanchuan then told him her address.


    The officer said, "That''s not a remote area. Does your ce have an ess control system?"


    Shaking her head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I live on the first floor. There''s no ess control there."


    Frowning, the officer said, "It''s already unsafe for a girl to live alone, yet you dare live on the first floor without any ess control?"


    Xu Chuanchuan opened and closed her mouth a few times, having no idea how she should answer. What the officer said was roughly the same as what Murong Shi had told her that day.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan also understoodmon sense like this. Only, she never expected for herself to get into such trouble. Also, the current house she rented was something she found when she had just graduated and found a job. When she saw that the house was close to herpany, the rent was reasonable, the furniture provided was satisfactory, and thendlord was kind, she decided to go out on a limb and rent the ce. And after living in the ce for two years without incident, she had already grown attached to it, so she had never thought about moving to a new ce.


    <em>Last year was my Natal year[1], yet nothing happened throughout the entire year. Why did I suddenly get targeted by that lecherous man?</em>


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan''s pitiful appearance, the police officer patiently advised, "It''s best if you get a rtive or friend to apany you. Or maybe move to another ce to stay for a few days. Also, I strongly rmend you rent a safer ce to stay in, particrly residentialmunities with security guards on duty. Safety should be your number one priority, after all."


    Xu Chuanchuan had hardly sleptst night, so her head buzzed throughout the entire conversation. While doing her best to nod, she said, "Thank you."


    After leaving the neighborhood police station, Xu Chuanchuan made her way to work.


    Upon arriving at thepany, Xu Chuanchuan first went to her department chief to sign a leave application form. She then made her way to the Human Resource Department, her body wobbling and shaking as she walked. On her way out of the office, someone stopped her.


    "Chuanchuan, yourplexion looks bad. Are you alright?"


    Snapping out of her gaze, Xu Chuanchuan looked at the person blocking her way and found that it was Xiao Li. Failing to notice that the other party had changed the way he referred to her, she said, "I''m fine. I just didn''t get enough sleepst night."


    Xiao Li then eagerly said, "I have some coffee and chocte on my table. Do you want me to bring you some?"


    Looking at Xiao Li''s fawning smile, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly recalled the lecherous man. Immediately, disgust welled up within her as she said with a sullen face, "No, thank you."


    Xiao Li was very experienced when it came to flirting with girls, so he wasn''t discouraged at all by Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. After briefly scanning Xu Chuanchuan''s body with his eyes, he suddenly asked, "Chuanchuan, weren''t you wearing these same clothes yesterday?"


    Xu Chuanchuan never told anyone about her not bathing yesterday, so her expression stiffened when she heard Xiao Li''s words. Her lips also twitched at the way he called her. While avoiding the main question, she said, "You should call me Little Xu."


    "I think Chuanchuan sounds more intimate. Little Xu sounds distant."


    "..."


    "Chuanchuan, I heard that you don''t have a boyfriend. What do you think of"


    "Xu Chuanchuan." Suddenly, a calm voice came from behind Xiao Li, interrupting him.


    Leaning aside, Xu Chuanchuan found Murong Shi standing behind Xiao Li. Although Murong Shi currently wore an indifferent expression on her face, she gave off an indescribably imposing aura.


    Xiao Li''s smile instantly disappeared when he saw Murong Shi. As if he had just seen a ghost, he quickly fled the area.


    Xu Chuanchuan honestly wished to thank Murong Shi for her impable timing. For the first time, she frankly stepped forward and asked, "Were you looking for me?"


    Hooking a finger at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Come to my office. I have something to show you."


    With her mind in a dizzy state, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think twice before she followed Murong Shi to her office.


    "Close the door," Murong Shi reminded.


    "Okay."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew a little confused by how mysterious Murong Shi was acting.


    Perhaps it was because of herck of sleep, but she currently felt a little out of sorts. At this moment, she felt neither fear nor anxiety. After closing the door behind her, she slowly made her way toward Murong Shi.


    After picking up her phone from her desk, Murong Shi turned around and finally took notice of Xu Chuanchuan''splexion. "Did you not sleep wellst night?"


    "Hehe, that''s right."


    "Did you not read novels?"


    "What?"


    "Didn''t you say you read novels to help with insomnia? Or did you read a horror novel and end up getting too excited to sleep instead?"


    Although Murong Shi spoke in a teasing tone, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to smile at all.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi was only teasing her and wasn''t genuinely concerned about her well-being, so she didn''t bother exining her terrible experiencest night. After forcing a smile on her face, she said, "I couldn''t sleep because I didn''t read anything. What did you want me to look at?"


    Shifting her sight away from Xu Chuanchuan''s paleplexion, Murong Shi fiddled with her phone for a moment before passing it to Xu Chuanchuan. "See if you find this familiar."


    What Murong Shi showed to Xu Chuanchuan was a picture of a girl. To be precise, it was a screenshot. The girl in the photo was wearing an imitation nurse''s uniform and a nurse''s cap. The girl was also wearing light makeup and throwing winks at the camera.


    When Xu Chuanchuan firstid eyes on the picture, she nearly thought it was her selfie. After taking a closer look, she realized that the girl was Xu Xiangxiang.


    Xu Xiangxiang had sought beauty since childhood, so she started learning makeup at a young age. Despite being only 18 years old, she could make herself look like a mature woman. However, although Xu Chuanchuan would frequently see her little sister posting all sorts of selfies on social media, this was a picture she had never seen before.


    "That''s my little sister." Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why did you want me to look at this?"


    "Look closer."


    Confused by Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan took a closer look at the picture. Only then did she notice where Murong Shi had taken this picture from. There were also several lines of text at the bottom part of the picture.


    Phone Newbie: "Host, are you a student?"


    Big-headed Fish Doll: "Where are you studying? Let your big brothers take a look at the other people in your dorm."


    Big Brother Loves Little Sister''s Little Sister: "What are you acting innocent for, you little slut? Is there even a streamer who hasn''t dirtied?"


    Tian Chen: "The nurse''s uniform is too conservative. You don''t have much of a chest, either. Dislike, dislike. I don''t even have the urge to send gifts."


    There was a "KS" icon located on the upper right corner of the image, and it was the logo of a certain live streaming tform. After connecting it with the bottom texts, Xu Chuanchuan quickly came to a realization.


    <em>Could Xu Xiangxiang be streaming on KS? Since when? Why don''t I know anything about it?!</em>


    TL Notes:


    [1]Natal year: A person''s Natal yeares once every twelve years, and it is considered the unluckiest year out of the whole twelve years for /travelguide/chinese-zodiac/facts.htm

 Chapter 36: Pt.2

    Chapter 36: Pt.2


    <em>Could Xu Xiangxiang be streaming on KS? Since when? Why don''t I know anything about it?!</em>


    Looking at Murong Shi in disbelief, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How did youe across this?"


    Instead of answering right away, Murong Shi picked up the mug of coffee on her desk and took a sip from it. She then pursed her lips and said, "Jiang Shaohua sent it to me yesterday. I thought he had been harassing you with impure motives that day, but it turns out he hadn''t been lying to me."


    Xu Chuanchuan was still confused by the situation as she rapidly blinked her eyes.


    Seeing the nk look on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi asked, "Do you not know that your little sister is live streaming?"


    Shaking her head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "She never told me about it."


    Pointing at the logo on the upper right corner of the screen, Murong Shi said, "Jiang Shaohua has a friend who''s an investor of this tform. He knows that Jiang Shaohua is acquainted with many beautiful women, and he had initially thought to get Jiang Shaohua to invest in the tform. After Jiang Shaohua fiddled around with the tform for a few days, he came across this new live streamer."


    Xu Xiangxiang had given herself quite theical nameCarrot Loving Monster.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    When Murong Shi saw that Xu Chuanchuan was still in a daze, she patted the other party on the shoulder and said, "Make sure to take a closer look. What if she''s only someone who looks like your sister?"


    Without a second thought, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No need. I''m certain it''s her."


    Murong Shi paused for a moment before saying, "I don''t know much about the live streaming industry. Based on what I heard from Jiang Shaohua, he initially took a liking to your little sister because she is innocent and unpretentious. She is also very talkative and amusing. It seems your little sister is quite talented in ying the role of a conversation partner. After starting only for a few days, she has already garnered over a thousand followers. She has also received plenty of donations."


    Xu Xiangxiang was talented in being a conversation partner? This was something Xu Chuanchuan found iprehensible. However, even until now, she still couldn''t wrap her mind around the fact that Xu Xiangxiang was working as a live streamer. She then looked toward the texts captured in the lower half of the picture.


    The texts should be thementsizens made in real-time, and some of thesements were vulgar beyond belief. If only a tiny segment of thement section already contained so many vulgarities, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t even begin to imagine what the rest of thement section looked like.


    However, despite thements, Xu Xiangxiang appeared unfazed in the picture. She still smiled like a blooming flower, and she seemed to be enjoying live streaming.


    <em>What the hell is going on?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly recalled the random nonsense Xu Xiangxiang had bought thest time her little sister had visited her. Out of that random assortment of items, there were three hats of three different styles, and one of them was none other than the nurse''s cap she wore in the picture. Upon recalling this matter, Xu Chuanchuan finally found some hints about when Xu Xiangxiang had started plotting to be a live streamer.


    <em>So that''s why she stopped bugging me to buy her a new phone recently. It''s because she''s already found a way to earn money.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had always encouraged her little sister to make money, but she never thought Xu Xiangxiang would be a live streamer out of all things.


    There were all sorts of ways one could make money. So long as the job was upright and legal, Xu Chuanchuan wouldn''t have cared what Xu Xiangxiang worked as. However, the crucial point here was that Xu Xiangxiang was currently a university student. With her workload at school, would she have the time and energy to work as a live streamer?


    Currently, Xu Chuanchuan was still unclear regarding the specifics of the situation, so she couldn''t decide whether Xu Xiangxiang''s live streaming gig was a bad thing or not. After calming herself, she said to Murong Shi, "Thank you for telling me this. Otherwise, I would''ve still been kept in the dark."


    "You''re wee," Murong Shi said in a light tone.


    "ThenI''ll head back to work now."


    "Mhm."


    With her mind filled with thoughts of the stalker incident and Xu Xiangxiang''s matter, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t pay attention to work at all. When she was on her lunch break, she decided to give Xu Xiangxiang a call."


    "Sis!" Xu Xiangxiang''s excited voice came through the phone.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have time to beat around the bush. Getting straight to the point, she asked, "Why didn''t you tell me that you started streaming on KS?"


    "Huh? You found out about it already? Hehe, I originally nned to tell you after I earned some money. Let me tell you, I already earned enough to buy a new phone now!"


    Sneering, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How capable of you. So, does that mean you don''t need to attend sses now?"


    In an anxious tone, Xu Xiangxiang exined, "I never said that. I just came out of a ss and was about to get lunch. I only stream at night, so it won''t affect my studies at all."


    "Are you sure? You failed two ssesst semester. Xu Xiangxiang, if you mess around with nonsense like this and fail another ss, you might as well stop going to school in the future."


    Only when dealing with Xu Xiangxiang would Xu Chuanchuan behave like a stern elder sister. She knew that Xu Xiangxiang wasn''t afraid of her. And while she could use pocket money as a threat before, now that Xu Xiangxiang had started making money on her own, would she still pay any heed to her warning?


    Sure enough, Xu Xiangxiang wasn''t afraid of her threat at all. In a delighted tone, she said, "I''m making my own money now. You can''t control me."


    Angrily, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Are you looking for a beating, Xu Xiangxiang?"


    However, Xu Xiangxiang was still unfazed as she said, "Oh, I have to go get lunch now. I''ll talk to you again when I have time."


    "You ungrateful little brat, I dare you to hang up my call."


    Growing annoyed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "What do you want? I''m starving. You should have your lunch as well. We''ll talk again after that."


    "I''m not in the mood to eat right now."


    "What''s wrong with Oh, c''mon, sis, what I''m doing is just normal live streaming. I''m not doing anything dishonorable, and neither am I selling my body. Why do you have to get so mad about it?"


    Breathing out a helpless sigh, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not mad. I''m just a little depressed."


    Sensing something amiss with her elder sister''s tone, Xu Xiangxiang asked in a soft tone, "Were you scolded by your superior again?"


    There wasn''t anything Xu Chuanchuan needed to hide from her little sister. After pondering for a moment, she confessed, "A creep is stalking me. I ended up staying in a hotelst night to avoid him, but I don''t know what I should do today."


    Gasping, Xu Xiangxiang raised her voice and said, "Sis, don''t be afraid! I don''t have any sses tomorrow, so I''ll go to you after today''s sses are over! I''ll make sure to beat up that creep!"


    Snickering, Xu Chuanchuan said, "With just you? Forget it. You''re afraid of even a mouse."


    Instead of getting annoyed, Xu Xiangxiang said with conviction, "I might be afraid of rats, but I''m not afraid of people. Wait for me. I''ll fly to yourpany once my afternoon sses are over."


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little touched by her little sister''s words. While rubbing her swollen temples, she bitterly smiled and said, "Fine, I''ll be waiting."


    In all honesty, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t willing to have Xu Xiangxiange over. However, she also didn''t have anyone else she could rely on. Most of the female colleagues she was close to were married, and the only two single female colleagues were living in a dormitory. She couldn''t possibly intrude on their privacy, right? Not to mention, she wasn''t particrly familiar with these colleagues.


    <em>Wait, dormitory? Why didn''t I think of it! Why don''t I apply for thepany dorms with Linda now?</em>


    <em>...But I don''t really like dormitory environments. If I have to stay with someone else, how am I supposed to write in the future? Also, my stuff is still in the apartment. I''ll still need to return to that ce.</em>


    <em>Forget it. Let''s wait for Xu Xiangxiang.</em>


    Xu Xiangxiang arrived at thepany before Xu Chuanchuan got off work, so Xu Chuanchuan had her wait in the lounge area in front of the front desk. However, when Xu Chuanchuan got off work, she failed to find any signs of her little sister at the front desk.


    Giving Xu Xiangxiang a call, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Where did you run off to?"


    Xu Xiangxiang said, "I''m in Big Sis Shishi''s office."


    Big Sis Shishi?


    Xu Chuanchuan jolted. In an uncertain tone, she asked, "You''re in Miss Murong''s office?"


    "That''s right."


    Xu Chuanchuan was both stunned and annoyed by this answer. "Why did you go there?"


    As if it were a matter of course, Xu Xiangxiang replied, "I was ying with my phone by the front desk just now. When Big Sis Shishi passed by and saw me, she asked if I wanted to visit her office, so I ended uping here."


    "..."


    After disconnecting the call, Xu Chuanchuan ran for Murong Shi''s office. When she opened the door, she found Xu Xiangxiang and Murong Shi seated on the sofas in the lounge area, and the two of them were currently having a pleasant conversation among themselves.


    Seeing that neither of them noticed her arrival, Xu Chuanchuan softly said, "Sorry for the interruption."


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Xiangxiang and Murong Shi simultaneously turned toward Xu Chuanchuan.


    An expression of joy springing onto her face, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Sis! Are you done with work? Want some tea?"


    It was no wonder why Xu Chuanchuan smelled the fragrance of tea when she entered the room. It turned out that Xu Xiangxiang and Murong Shi were leisurely enjoying tea here.


    While Xu Chuanchuan might not know the exact process, she could roughly guess what had happened. After greeting Xu Xiangxiang at the front desk, Murong Shi must''ve invited Xu Xiangxiang to her office out of courtesy. Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang must''ve taken those words at face value and epted the invitation.


    In Xu Chuanchuan''s mind, Xu Xiangxiang was probably the only person who would be so shameless and insensible to have tea in Murong Shi''s office during working hours.


    Xu Chuanchuan honestly felt ashamed and helpless about her little sister sometimes. After quickly making her way to Xu Xiangxiang, she pulled her little sister out of her seat and said to Murong Shi, "I''m very sorry, Miss Murong. My little sister is still young and insensible."


    Dissatisfied by her elder sister''s words, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "How am I insensible?"


    ring at her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You still have the nerve to ask that?"


    After elegantly taking a sip of tea, Murong Shi smiled and said, "I think Xiangxiang is quite sensible."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned.


    Pointing her chin at the tea on the table, Murong Shi said, "Your little sister is pretty amazing. She says she knows how to make tea, so she put on a performance for me."


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless when she looked at the tea on the table.


    Xu Xiangxiang had learned the art of making tea from their grandfather during childhood. However, as she was veryzy at home, she never made tea for others if she could avoid doing so. Xu Chuanchuan never thought that she would be so hardworking after arriving in Murong Shi''s ce.


    Xu Chuanchuan watched as Murong Shi savored her tea sip after sip. Paired with her lowered eyebrows and peaceful expression, Murong Shi''s every action looked so beautiful that Xu Chuanchuan found herself unwilling to blink.


    Thus far, Xu Chuanchuan had only ever seen Murong Shi drink coffee or water. This was the first time she had seen the other party drinking tea. If not for Murong Shi suddenly lifting her head, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she could continue watching for much longer.


    "Do you want a cup?" Murong Shi asked nonchntly.


    Looking away awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Thank you, but that won''t be necessary."


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang''s voice rang out as she said, "Big Sis Shishi and I had a pleasant time chatting."


    No matter how many times Xu Chuanchuan heard it, she couldn''t get used to hearing Xu Xiangxiang''s manner of referring to Murong Shi. She felt that there was a need to educate her little sister. While having a naive and carefree personality might make her look cute, going too far with it would only earn her the disgust of others. In a suppressed voice, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Stop with the ''Big Sis.'' Refer to her as Miss Murong."


    Paying no heed to her elder sister''s warning, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I''m not an employee of thispany, so why must I be like you? Also, Big Sis Shishi is older than me, so what''s wrong if I call her Big Sis? Aren''t I right, Big Sis Shishi?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "Up to you. You can call me whatever you want."


    Xu Chuanchuan was shocked once more.


    <em>What''s wrong with her today? Why did she be so easygoing all of a sudden? Is it because she likes Xu Xiangxiang?</em>


    Murong Shi then looked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I''m older than you as well."


    <em>So? </em>


    Setting down her teacup, Murong Shi added, "But you cannot call me that."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>I never nned to.</em>

 Chapter 37: Pt.1

    Chapter 37: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan stood aside like a log of wood as she listened to the conversation between Murong Shi and Xu Xiangxiang.


    Murong Shi said, "My alma mater is next door to your school."


    Xu Xiangxiang asked, "You mean Nanjing University?"


    Murong Shi nodded, "Mhm."


    pping her hands excitedly, Xu Xiangxiang eximed, "Wow! You''re amazing, Big Sis Shishi! You graduated from a famous university!"


    Murong Shi smiled but didn''t say anything.


    While feeling speechless over Xu Xiangxiang''s behavior, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but send a look of admiration to Murong Shi.


    Nanjing University was the best university in S City, ranking within the top ten in the country. Although Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi was very capable of teaching others a lesson, she never thought Murong Shi would also be incrediblypetent in her studies.


    "Big Sis Shishi, I''m awful at studying. Can you give me some tips on how I can improve my results?" Xu Xiangxiang asked with an eager look.


    In response, Murong Shi asked, "What year are you in now?"


    "I''m a freshman."


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan interjected, "She failed two sses in her first semester. Her academic performance is a mess."


    Upon being ratted out, Xu Xiangxiang red at her elder sister in dissatisfaction.


    After taking a look at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi returned her gaze to Xu Xiangxiang and said in a serious tone, "Your first year is the time where you should be building a foundation for yourself. You will have to put in an adequate amount of time and effort to build a sturdy foundation. If your mind isn''t focused on your studies, any talk about getting a good grade is meaningless. What do you think?"


    Xu Xiangxiang fell into a daze for a moment and subconsciously nodded when faced with Murong Shi''s slender eyes.


    Seeing that the two of them had finally finished their tea, Xu Chuanchuan offered to wash the tea set. Although Xu Xiangxiang tried to ck off, Xu Chuanchuan had dragged her out of the office by the ear.


    "Sis, do you think Big Sis Shishi was hinting something at me just now?"


    Although it was already off-hours, the walls had ears. After closing the door to the restroom, Xu Chuanchuan pinched Xu Xiangxiang''s arm and said, "If not for her, I would still be unaware of what you''ve done."


    Xu Xiangxiang hissed in pain when Xu Chuanchuan pinched her. But when she heard her elder sister''s words, her eyes brightened as she asked, "Big Sis Shishi also watches my live streams?"


    Rolling her eyes at her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Do you think everyone is as free as you?"


    Pouting, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I can earn money by live streaming. Can you stop being so prejudiced, sis?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have the urge to pinch Xu Xiangxiang again. She then said, "If mom and dad learn that you''re doing nonsense like this instead of studying properly, we''ll see how they deal with you."


    Her expression twisting, Xu Xiangxiang pleaded, "Don''t! Dad will kill me!"


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to pay attention to her little sister''s pleading.


    Xu Chuanchuan hailed a taxi for safety''s sake when they started making their way to her rented apartment. It took less than ten minutes toplete the trip by car. However, the closer Xu Chuanchuan got to her rented apartment, the more anxious she became.


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s condition, Xu Xiangxiang patted her elder sister''s shoulder and confidently said, "Sis, don''t be afraid, I''m here with you. I even brought a tool for self-defense."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked at her little sister suspiciously and asked, "What tool?"


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang unzipped her duffel bag and revealed a sharp fruit knife she had secretly brought with her.


    Upon seeing the knife, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly held down Xu Xiangxiang''s hands and said in horror, "D-Don''t mess around!"


    However, instead of backing down, Xu Xiangxiang snarled and revealed a ferocious appearance. She then said in a sinister tone, "I will only attack if I''m attacked. If that pervert dares to mess around, I''ll stab him!"


    Xu Chuanchuan gulped nervously, unsure of what she should say in this situation.


    At this time, the taxi driver asked, "Is it this ce?"


    Looking around, Xu Chuanchuan found that they''ve already arrived at their destination. She then hastily said, "It''s here. Stop the car."


    While Xu Chuanchuan was paying the taxi fare, Xu Xiangxiang leaned forward. She then smiled sweetly at the driver and said, "Big Brother Driver, a pervert might be targeting us. We''re not sure if he''s in the area right now. Can you wait until we are inside our house before driving away? If that person sees that there are other people nearby, he won''t dare approach us."


    Upon hearing these words, the driver turned around and looked at the two sisters. Maybe because he could not resist Xu Xiangxiang''s sweet assault, he decisively said, "Okay, you two be careful, then. I''ll watch the area for you."


    "Thank you! Big Brother Driver, you''re so cool!"


    Xu Chuanchuan gaped at Xu Xiangxiang''s actions. If it were up to her, she definitely couldn''t put on such a cute act.


    After several seconds had gone by, Xu Chuanchuan snapped out of her daze and thanked the taxi driver. She then dragged Xu Xiangxiang out of the car.


    Xu Xiangxiang held her duffel bag tightly in her arms. She also extended one hand into the bag and grabbed the hilt of the fruit knife.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan searched for her keys while warily looking at her surroundings for any movement.


    The two sisters'' hearts furiously thumped as they crossed the short distance between the taxi and Xu Chuanchuan''s rented apartment.


    However, even after they had reached the door, the lecherous man still didn''t show up. Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief at this situation and quickly unlocked the door.


    Fortunately, the taxi driver was a righteous person, and he had kept his car parked by the roadside throughout this time. Xu Chuanchuan felt grateful to the man, and she waved at him, signaling that he could leave now.


    Once the taxi driver drove away, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly grabbed Xu Xiangxiang, who was still in a defensive state, into the house. She then closed the door with a bang and locked it.


    Tossing her bag onto the bed, Xu Xiangxiang said with a pleased look, "See? With me around, that pervert won''t dare to show his face. You should''ve told me about this matter sooner."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t follow up with Xu Xiangxiang''s words. While it was good news that they didn''t encounter the lecherous man this time, she dared not take her chances. She might''ve had good luck today, but what about in the future?


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled what Murong Shi and that police officer had said to her, she felt that she should seriously consider moving to a new ce.


    "Sis, I''m hungry," Xu Xiangxiang said as sheid on the bed, rubbing her stomach.


    Xu Chuanchuan was also hungry. After a brief discussion, they decided to call for delivery.


    While eating, Xu Chuanchuan saw that Xu Xiangxiang was constantly fiddling with her phone, so she asked, "Don''t tell me you n to do a live stream here today?"


    In a regretful tone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Today''s a rare day that I don''t have any sses. I was originally nning to do a live stream, but seeing how afraid you are, I decided to apany you instead."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan felt aggrieved when she thought about how she was the elder of the two of them. "Are you not afraid at all?"


    Nonchntly, Xu Xiangxiang said, "It''s two against one. What''s there to be afraid of?"


    "What if it''s a gang?"


    Xu Xiangxiang''s expression stiffened, and panic started appearing on her face. "Don''t scare me."


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed.


    After finishing dinner, Xu Chuanchuan gave herndlord a call and told her about her situation. However, thendlord was helpless about the problem as well, and she only warned Xu Chuanchuan to keep her door locked and not go outside for no good reason.


    With neither the police nor herndlord being of any help, Xu Chuanchuan was at her wit''s end. With no better avenue avable, she visited  and started searching for nearby properties to rent.


    However, even after searching for some time, she failed to find a suitable house. The ones located in good neighborhoods were usually shared apartments, and Xu Chuanchuan was against the idea of living with two or three strangers under the same roof.


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang suggested, "You might as well buy your own house."


    Looking at her little sister with an indifferent expression, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you know how much down payment is needed to buy a house in the city?"


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Xiangxiang boldly said, "A cheap one should be around 500,000 only, right?"


    "Only?" Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth twitched at Xu Xiangxiang''s words.


    Xu Chuanchuan currently had around 300,000 saved up in her bank. If she were to buy a 100-square-meter house, she would already have enough for the down payment, though she would still need to save up another 100,000 for the renovation costs. Of course, she had no intention of telling Xu Xiangxiang about this. There was no point for her to do so, anyway.


    Giggling, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I previously thought 500,000 was a lot of money as well, but after I started live streaming, I realized that this is an insignificant amount of money. Do you know, sis? Some rich tycoons can give several hundred thousand to a female streamer without blinking. Those women truly are enviable. If someone can give me that kind of money as well, I''d even be willing to marry him."


    Xu Chuanchuan started to worry when she saw Xu Xiangxiang''s expression of envy. She was well aware that her little sister had very little self-control and could not resist temptation.


    While shaking Xu Xiangxiang''s shoulders vehemently, Xu Chuanchuan yelled, "Stop daydreaming!"


    "It''s almost nighttime, okay?" Xu Xiangxiang said as she pushed her elder sister''s hands away. "Also, I''m not dreaming. Many people like me. There are even tycoons who are willing to donate to me."


    Leaning closer to Xu Xiangxiang, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Have you done anything unseemly?"


    "What?"


    "Stop acting cute with me. Don''t think that I don''t know anything just because I don''t watch live streams. I know that some female streamers will even send nudes to tycoons who''ve given them a lot of money. Heck, some are even willing to spend the night."


    Upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Xu Xiangxiang shouted exaggeratedly, "How can I possibly do such a thing?! Sis, you''ve gone too far!"


    "I didn''t say it was you; why are you getting so worked up? I''m only warning you. Money doesn''t grow on trees, and rich people aren''t idiots. It''s best if you know your ce when making money."


    "I know, I know. You''re so nosy. Talking to you is so tiring," Xu Xiangxiang said. She then hid in the bathroom to avoid further interrogation.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan started silently tidying up the food boxes.


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang''s voice came out of the bathroom, saying, "It''s so hot. Sis, I''m going to take a shower."


    Xu Chuanchuan then reminded her, "You didn''t even bring a change of clothes."


    "I''ll reuse what I''m wearing."


    Now that Xu Chuanchuan had sated her stomach, sheid down on the bed and resumed searching for a new house to rent. However, before she could do so, she received a new message on QQ.


    Ange: "Did you encounter the pervert today?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Thankfully, no. My little sister also came to keep mepany."


    Ange: "It still isn''t safe with just two women. Why don''t you move to a new ce?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I just so happened to be looking for one, but I can''t find any single rooms. I don''t want to share a ce with strangers, either."


    Ange: "Come to my ce, then. You can take your pick from my three vacant rooms. My neighborhood has 24-hour security as well. It''s perfectly safe here."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You live too far away How am I supposed to go to work?"


    Ange: "Resign. You''ve made a lot of money through writing, anyway. That job of yours is negligible by now."


    Xu Chuanchuan fell into deep thought.


    She was a very insecure person. She tended to be overcautious and indecisive when making big decisions. Although she was currently making a lot of money through her writing, nobody could guarantee that she could keep on writing forever. And if the day arrived where she could no longer make a living through her writing, what would she do to survive?


    Sometimes, Xu Chuanchuan wished she could be like Ange. Not only was Ange a talented writer, but she had even risen to fame at a young age.


    Until this day, Ange was the first and only yuri author in the country to have ever sold the film rights of her books. Moreover, it wasn''t just the rights to one book, but five instead. She had instantly be a wealthy woman because of this transaction.


    Unfortunately, there was no point for Xu Chuanchuan to envy Ange. Xu Chuanchuan was well aware of her own limitations. Fortunately, she had a good mindset and wasn''t greedy.


    <em>Let''s just take things one step at a time.</em>


    TL : This is a site in China that provides services for various industries such as real estate, tourism,w, and education. You can also hire all sorts of professional help through the site.

 Chapter 37: Pt.2

    Chapter 37: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan needed a quiet environment when writing. With Xu Xiangxiang singing while bathing, she had no choice but to stuff her ears with earplugs. However, after plugging only one of her ears, she suddenly heard a cheerful ringtone.


    After looking at the source of the sound, Xu Chuanchuan found that the sound didn''te from her phone but Xu Xiangxiang''s duffel bag instead.


    The ringing persisted, so Xu Chuanchuan grabbed the bag and pulled out the ringing phone within it. She then saw the words "Young Master Hua" disyed on the screen.


    A man?


    "Xu Xiangxiang, your phone," Xu Chuanchuan said to the bathroom.


    However, the sound of sshing water must''ve drowned out Xu Chuanchuan''s words as no reply came from Xu Xiangxiang.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan decided to answer the call in ce of her little sister.


    "What are you doing now, Little Cutie?"


    It was a man''s voice. The voice sounded both foreign and familiar to Xu Chuanchuan. The man had trailed his voice filled it with ambiguity.


    Startled, Xu Chuanchuan wondered, <em>Could it be Xu Xiangxiang''s boyfriend? But I''ve never heard that she has gotten herself a boyfriend.</em>


    Cautiously, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Uh, Xu Xiangxiang isn''t free to answer the phone right now. I''m her elder sister. May I know if you have any business with her?"


    "She has an elder sister? You must be as cute as Little Cutie as well, then."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan frowned. The more she listened to this man speak, the more she felt that something was amiss. "May I know what is your rtionship with my little sister?"


    "Oh, we met online. I saw how cute she was, so I decided to adopt her as my little sister. Big Sis, how old are you? Do you live stream as well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hung up the call without hesitation.


    It took another 20 minutes before Xu Xiangxiang came out of the bath.


    With a bath towel wrapped around her body, Xu Xiangxiang walked barefooted to the bed. Just as she was about to rip off the towel and change back into her clothes, she found Xu Chuanchuan staring at her with a stern look. Her heart thumping, she covered her chest and asked, "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to speak in circles with her little sister. Raising the phone in her hand, she asked, "A man called Young Master Hua called you just now. He says you two met online and that he''s even your adopted brother."


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes widened momentarily, and she promptly snatched her phone out of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand. After giving her phone a once-over, she sighed in relief.


    Looking at her little sister''s pallidplexion, Xu Chuanchuan demanded, "If what you''re doing is normal live streaming, why would this Young Master Hua have your number? He''s even calling you something as disgusting as Little Cutie. Xu Xiangxiang, what the hell have you been up to?"


    Clutching her phone, Xu Xiangxiang stammered, "He''s given me a lot of donations. We also happen to be living in the same city, so we ended up chatting a few times on WeChat. My phone number is also bound to WeChat. How would I know he would call me?"


    Smiling contemptuously, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Don''t give me that. You don''t even know how to lie properly. You must''ve spoken with him on the phone before. Otherwise, how would you have his number saved?"


    "I"


    "Give me your phone."


    "What do you want?"


    "I want to see your conversation history with him."


    Hiding her phone behind her back, Xu Xiangxiang said, "This is my privacy! Why must I let you see it!"


    Xu Chuanchuan narrowed her eyes and said, "You must be hiding something."


    "I''m not. I just don''t like other people going through my phone."


    "I won''t dig around. I just want to see your chat history with him," Xu Chuanchuan said, doing her best to be patient. "If you have a clean rtionship with him, why should you be afraid of showing it to me?"


    "I"


    Seeing that her little sister still refused to budge, Xu Chuanchuan decided to bring out her trump card. While grabbing her own phone, she said, "Okay, if you don''t want to let me see it, fine. I''ll tell mom and dad about this."


    "Don''t!" Xu Xiangxiang shouted as she snatched Xu Chuanchuan''s phone away in a panic. Lowering her head, she mumbled, "He''s the one who hit on me first"


    Xu Chuanchuan''splexion darkened when she heard this. Extending her hand, she demanded, "Give me your phone."


    Biting her lip, Xu Xiangxiang reluctantly handed her phone to Xu Chuanchuan.


    "Password."


    "My birthday"


    After unlocking the phone, Xu Chuanchuan immediately entered WeChat. As she expected, she found a person nicknamed "Young Master Hua" in the chat list. She then tapped into this person''s conversation window.


    Thetest message was sent half an hour ago, and it was a voice message. Tapping on it, Xu Chuanchuan heard the man''s disgusting voice saying, "Little Cutie, do you want to go out with your big brother this weekend? I''lle to pick you up in my car."


    Scrolling up, Xu Chuanchuan found more text and voice messages, and she read and listened to every one of them. However, the more she saw and heard, the grimmer her expression became.


    Based on the conversation log, Xu Chuanchuan could tell that this man had indeed taken the initiative to flirt with Xu Xiangxiang. However, Xu Xiangxiang''s responses to him were also very ambiguous. She kept arousing the other party''s appetite, which caused the man to try to pursue her constantly.


    Entering a brother-sister rtionship was merely an excuse.


    At this point, Xu Xiangxiang''s face had be drenched as she anxiously looked at her phone from the side.


    Sending her little sister a vicious re, Xu Chuanchuan continued scrolling up and eventually came across a few photos. And upon seeing these photos, she immediately became frozen.


    The man in the photos had fair skin and good-looking facial features. His eyes that resembled peach blossoms, in particr, constantly gave off flirtatious vibes.


    Xu Xiangxiang naturally saw these pictures as well, and she said in a trembling voice, "He wanted to woo me, so he sent me a few selfies. But I still haven''t said yes to his attempts yet. He''s quite handsome, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was both shocked and angered by this situation. Smashing the phone straight into Xu Xiangxiang''s forehead and ignoring her cry of pain, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Right, my ass! Do you know who he is?!"


    While rubbing her forehead, Xu Xiangxiang said with an aggrieved look, "He''s the tycoon who gave me the most donations."


    Inhaling deeply, Xu Chuanchuan said slowly and clearly, "This is Miss Murong''s boyfriend!"


    Xu Chuanchuan had just seen that face a few days ago. Never had she thought that this "Young Master Hua" would be Jiang Shaohua.


    "Huh?" Xu Xiangxiang was instantly dumbfounded. "That''s impossible, right? He says he doesn''t have a girlfriend."


    "He''s a phndering bastard! He''ll flirt with any girl he sees! If he doesn''t lie to you, how will he get you onto his hook?"


    However, Xu Xiangxiang still felt skeptical about the situation. "That''s not possible. You must be mistaken. If Big Sis Shishi is his girlfriend, how would he possibly take a liking to me?"


    "How should I know?" Anger filled Xu Chuanchuan, and she could only vent her rage on Xu Xiangxiang. "Xu Xiangxiang, you have gone too far this time."


    With the conversation log serving as evidence, Xu Xiangxiang had no way to refute her elder sister''s words. Her eyes reddening, she anxiously said, "I-I just thought it was nice to chat with him. I never knew he had a girlfriend. How would I know if his girlfriend is Big Sis Shishi Give me the phone. I''ll cklist him immediately."


    "Do you think you''ll be done just by cklisting him?"


    Holding her phone in a daze, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "If not, what else?"


    "Return the donations he has given to you."


    "No! Why should I? That''s the money I earned from live streaming!"


    Holding back her urge to hit her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Can you feel at ease earning this kind of money?"


    "Why wouldn''t I be at ease? I didn''t steal it."


    Doing her best to keep her anger suppressed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Okay, I''ll pay it back for you. Afterward, I want you to rify the situation and cut off all dealings with him in the future. How much did he give you in total?"


    "So far, around 20,000"


    Xu Chuanchuan winced when she heard the amount. Gritting her teeth, she grabbed her phone and started transferring the money to Xu Xiangxiang''s WeChat.


    Seeing this, Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly said, "The tform takes half of it, so it''s fine if we return only 10,000 to him"


    Xu Chuanchuan paused for a moment before changing the transfer amount to 10,000.


    Apanied by the sound of a "ding-dong," the money arrived in Xu Xiangxiang''s ount. Xu Chuanchuan then urged her, "Hurry up and transfer it! Make sure to rify the situation to him and have him stop harassing you in the future. Afterward, cklist him."


    However, Xu Xiangxiang hesitated.


    Seeing Xu Xiangxiang''s hesitation, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her little sister''s phone, transferred the money to Jiang Shaohua, and sent him a message rifying the situation.


    However, while Xu Chuanchuan was waiting for the other party to ept the money and then cklist him, Jiang Shaohua had actually returned the money. He had even sent a voice message saying, "I''m sorry for lying to you. I do have a girlfriend. Also, I don''t need a refund; I do notck this bit of money, and I originally donated to you because I thought you were funny. Hah To think you would find out. How boring. Anyway, that''s it. I won''t bother you anymore in the future."


    When Xu Chuanchuan heard Jiang Shaohua speaking in such a righteous tone, she very nearly exploded. She then pulled Xu Xiangxiang''s ear and said, "Heard that? He''s just ying with you. Stop being so naive, okay?"


    While pulling a long face, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I know I''ll cklist him, alright?"


    "Do you think that''s the end of it?"


    "What else do you want, then?"


    "You, apologize to Miss Murong."


    Xu Xiangxiang''splexion turned even paler.


    The next day, Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang left the house without running into that pervert again.


    After sending Xu Xiangxiang back to school in a taxi, Xu Chuanchuan made her way to thepany and sought out Murong Shi with a heavy heart.


    "Miss Murong, are you free tonight?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan visited Murong Shi, Linda also happened to be in the room. Upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Linda stopped her work and looked at Xu Chuanchuan with interest.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi''s gaze was calm as she tly asked, "What does it matter to you if I''m free or not?"


    Xu Chuanchuan choked, her face turning bright red. For a moment, she found it difficult to say anything.


    After observing Xu Chuanchuan for a while, Murong Shi asked, "Do you want to treat me to dinner again?"


    Going with the flow, Xu Chuanchuan nodded and said, "Do you have time?"


    Surprised, Murong Shi asked, "I don''t remember helping you recently. Why would you invite me to dinner for no reason?"


    Forcing a smile onto her face, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Actually, it''s my sister She has done something damaging to you, and she has some things she wishes to say to you."

 Chapter 38: Pt.1

    Chapter 38: Pt.1


    After thinking for a moment, Murong Shi said, "This Friday night."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not expect Murong Shi to agree so quickly. Stunned, she asked, "Don''t you need to go out with your boyfriend on Friday night?"


    Murong Shi might have spoken casually, but neither Xu Chuanchuan nor Linda could remain calm.


    "He should''ve asked another girl out already."


    "..." Perhaps there might be a problem with the lighting, but Xu Chuanchuan could faintly see a green patch on top of Murong Shi''s head.[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to hold up her little sister''s studies, so she told Xu Xiangxiang not to visit her for the time being. Although Xu Chuanchuan no longer had anyone apanying her home, she did carry the fruit knife Xu Xiangxiang had deliberately left for her in her bag. On her way home, she stopped by a supermarket to look for some self-defense tools. Unfortunately, she couldn''t find any pepper spray, so she ended up buying a bag of chili powder instead.


    With the fruit knife and chili powder in her arsenal, Xu Chuanchuan could finally walk with confidence. Seeing as the sky was darkening soon, she pedaled her bicycle home as quickly as possible. However, when she arrived at her destination, she found a man standing by her rented apartment''s entrance.


    Looking at the man''s silhouette, Xu Chuanchuan quickly determined that he was none other than the lecherous man from that day.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tensed at this discovery. Just as she was about to make a U-turn and flee, she suddenly changed her mind. She felt that it wouldn''t do for her to keep living in fear and hiding like this. After firming her mind, she pushed her bicycle forward and shouted at the man, "Hey"


    Her sudden shout gave the sneaky man a scare. However, when he turned around and saw her face, he immediately revealed his disgusting, sleazy expression again.


    Xu Chuanchuan used her bike as a barrier to separate herself from the man. While putting on a fierce look, she demanded, "Why are you stalking me?"


    "I-I r-recognize you," the man stuttered as he pointed at her face. "L-Little Monster, I-I''ve always given you g-gifts when y-you''re streaming."[2]


    Xu Chuanchuan was shocked, particrly by the man''s words.


    Although the man''s stuttering made his words, Xu Chuanchuan still understood what he was trying to say. Frowning, she said, "I don''t understand what you''re saying. You got the wrong person."


    The man moved closer.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan backed away in alertness and raised her voice, "Don''te near me! There''s a surveince camera there! I''ll call the police if you mess around!"


    When the man followed her finger and saw a camera, he promptly stopped his footsteps.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously tightened her grip around her bike. In reality, that camera had long since stopped working. Thendlord was also toozy to get it reced, so it was now nothing more than a decoration.


    Fortunately, the man didn''t seem very smart, so he failed to find anything strange with the surveince camera. Instead, he stared at Xu Chuanchuan''s face and asked skeptically, "A-Aren''t you K-KS p-tform''s C-Carrot Loving Monster?"


    While inwardly cursing Xu Xiangxiang a hundred times, Xu Chuanchuan said with a dead-pan face, "I''m not. I''m calling the police if you keep on stalking me."


    The man''s expression changed a little upon hearing the word "police." Rubbing his palms together nervously, he scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan for a moment before saying, "Y-You look a-alike, but y-your v-voice is different."


    After the man was done mumbling to himself, he reluctantly left the area.


    Meanwhile, after returning home, the first thing Xu Chuanchuan did was to call Xu Xiangxiang and give her a good scolding.


    When Xu Xiangxiang heard that her elder sister''s stalker was one of her viewers, she heartlessly said, "That''s my fan!"


    Growing further incensed, Xu Chuanchuan bellowed, "Fan, my ass! Do you think of yourself as a celebrity?!"


    Hearing the rage in her elder sister''s tone, Xu Xiangxiang only grunted and dared not say anything back. She then contentedly said, "Take care of yourself, then. I''m about to go to my elective ss."


    After waiting for her breathing to settle, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Miss Murong says she''s free on Friday night."


    In response, a groan came through the phone as Xu Xiangxiang said, "Are you kidding me, sis? Do you really intend for me to apologize to her?"


    "So, you think you don''t need to apologize after doing such a thing?"


    Xu Xiangxiang said defiantly, "But I never agreed to his advances"


    Gnashing her teeth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Yes, you didn''t agree to his advances, yet you stillmunicated with him using that kind of ambiguous tone. What you did was tant seduction!"


    "..."


    On Friday, after getting off work, Xu Chuanchuan got onto Murong Shi''s car.


    "Where to?" Murong Shi asked.


    "My sister wants to eat wood-fired chicken. Do you like that?"


    "You guys decide. I don''t mind anything."


    Recently, Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi was bing more and more agreeable, and she couldn''t help but find this change unsettling. After fastening her seatbelt, she quickly gave Murong Shi the address.


    After turning on the car''s GPS, Murong Shi casually struck up a conversation with Xu Chuanchuan. "What does Xiangxiang want to say to me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked. She then ambiguously said, "Let her tell you face-to-face."


    "Is she nning to treat me to a meal because she earned some money from doing live streams?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan thought about how most of the money her little sister earned came from Jiang Shaohua, her expression grew even more unnatural. While rubbing her nose, she said, "Maybe."


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "Xiangxiang is quite to my liking. She''s frank, bold, and isn''t afraid to say anything."


    <em>You''ll probably want to p her afterward, though,</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself.


    There was some traffic on the road, so when they arrived at the restaurant, Xu Xiangxiang had been waiting for some time already.


    However, when Xu Xiangxiang saw Murong Shi, she no longer acted as carefreely as before. Instead, she had her head lowered as she timidly said, "Big Sis Shishi, I''m sorry."


    "Is this what you wanted to say to me?" Murong Shi asked in confusion.


    The seat Xu Xiangxiang chose was quite secluded, but there were still other guests nearby. After looking around, Xu Xiangxiang quietly said, "I''m really sorry. I didn''t know Young Master Hua is your boyfriend."


    "Young Master Hua?"


    Seeing that Xu Xiangxiang''s face was close to turning into the color of liver, Xu Chuanchuan exined, "She''s referring to Young Master Jiang."


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi asked, "Jiang Shaohua?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded and awkwardly said, "Young Master Jiang gave her a lot of gifts on KS, and they ended up exchanging contacts. She even said a lot of ambiguous words to him."


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang anxiously said, "He told me he didn''t have a girlfriend before, so I didn''t think too much about it. I never thought you and he were"


    Murong Shi instantly understood what was going on. She then asked, "You mean to say Jiang Shaohua tricked you?"


    Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly nodded.


    Lightly chuckling, Murong Shi said, "He often uses this method to pick up girls. And here I thought something big happened."


    Stunned by Murong Shi''s reaction, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "You You aren''t mad?"


    Shrugging, Murong Shi said, "I''m used to it."


    Xu Xiangxiang and Xu Chuanchuan briefly exchanged looks with each other. However, when they saw Murong Shi''s nonchnt behavior, they found themselves unable to say anything.


    After taking a sip of herbal tea, Murong Shi said, "Since he tricked you, there''s no need for you to apologize to me."


    Wetting her lips, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Actually, I''m partially at fault as well"


    Murong Shi put on a posture that showed that she was all ears.


    "I Although I never agreed to his advances, I deliberately aroused his interests because I thought he would keep giving me gifts I know this is a nasty method But I failed to control myself because I realized how easy it is to make money this way" Xu Xiangxiang''s voice grew increasingly incoherent and softer as she spoke. Eventually, her voice had be practically inaudible.


    As Xu Xiangxiang''s elder sister, Xu Chuanchua''s face also turned red from embarrassment, and she couldn''t bear to look Murong Shi in the eye.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi did not say a word throughout the entire time, her thoughts known only to herself.


    After a moment, Xu Chuanchuan cleared her throat and said, "We originally nned to return the money to Young Master Jiang, but he refused it. How about I transfer it to your WeChat instead?"


    In response, Murong Shi set down her teacup and said, "Don''t. What''s his is his, and what''s mine is mine. There''s no meaning in giving me his money."


    "But"


    Interrupting Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "I already figured out what happened. In reality, there''s no need for you two to exin this to me or apologize to me. This matter ends here."


    Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang looked at each other, both of them at a loss for words.


    Because of Murong Shi''s indifference, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt like she had kicked up a fuss for nothing.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t help butin to her elder sister, saying, "It''s all your fault. I told you there''s no need to apologize. Sis, you really like to make something out of nothing."


    If not for Murong Shi''s presence, Xu Chuanchuan really wanted to give her little sister a beating.


    After solving her problem, Xu Xiangxiang quickly returned to her original behavior and began merrily chatting with Murong Shi.


    As for Xu Chuanchuan, she ended up being cast aside, looking no different than a third wheel at the table.


    Midway through the meal, Xu Xiangxiang left for the washroom. As soon as she left, the atmosphere at the table cooled down significantly.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan found the silence awkward, she couldn''t think up any conversation topics on the fly. Hence, she kept her head down and silently ate her meal.


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi calmly said, "Xiangxiang is still young and easily susceptible to temptation. I think you should dissuade her from continuing her live streams."


    In actuality, Xu Chuanchuan had just that intention. Sighing, she said, "I know. I''ll talk to her about it."


    "Xiangxiang is right, though. You have indeed made quite a fuss over this small matter."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Your boyfriend is out flirting with girls everywhere, so how can you be so calm?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had a mix of dipping sauce in front of her. The small te held shades of red and green coated by ayer of sesame oil. Xu Chuanchuan would get addicted to eating spicy food very easily, and her lips would swell whenever she finished eating. If one looked closely at her lips, they were even trembling slightly right now. And perhaps her lips had swelled up a lot this time, Xu Chuanchuan noticed Murong Shi constantly staring at them.


    Feeling a little diforted by Murong Shi''s staring, Xu Chuanchuan took a sip of tea and said, "You should quickly eat up as well. Don''t waste it."


    While slowly eating a potato slice, Murong Shi stared at the dipping te in front of Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "What are those strips of yellow?"


    Xu Chuanchuan paused for a moment. She then picked up one of the yellow strips and said, "You mean this? It''s fish mint. Have you never had it before?"


    Murong Shi shook her head.


    "It tastes good. Do you want to try it?"


    "I know it tastes bad just by hearing its name."


    To quell Murong Shi''s doubts, Xu Chuanchuan put a stalk of fish mint into her mouth, chewed it, and swallowed it. After finishing a stalk, she picked up another one with her chopsticks and stuffed it into her mouth again. She then said, "It really is delicious. My whole family likes to eat this."


    Seeing the look of enjoyment on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi couldn''t help but grow puzzled.


    TL Notes:


    [1]green patch on top of Murong Shi''s head: This is referencing the "green hat" mentioned previously (during the paint incident). It means that Murong Shi is being cheated on by her partner.


    [2]gifts: the gifts referenced here is probably the currency used on the KS tform, like the bits used on Twitch.

 Chapter 38: Pt.2

    Chapter 38: Pt.2


    Five minutester, Xu Xiangxiang returned from the washroom and came across a strange sight.


    Murong Shi wore a gloomy expression on her face as she finished her cup of tea. And upon noticing the cup was empty, Xu Chuanchuan would immediately lean forward and refill the cup, acting no different than ackey trying to please her boss. Afterward, Murong Shi would empty her cup once more. After repeating this three times, Murong Shi unhappily interrupted Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt to please her as she said, "I''m full."


    Looking at Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan asked in trepidation, "Do you want to eat some more meat?"


    With indifference on her face, Murong Shi replied, "No, you two go ahead."


    Xu Chuanchuan then timidly set down the teapot.


    Confused by the situation, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Big Sis Shishi, did something happen?"


    "It''s nothing."


    Xu Xiangxiang then looked toward Xu Chuanchuan.


    In turn, Xu Chuanchuan sheepishly lowered her head. While doing so, she snuck a nce at the bowl in front of Murong Shi.


    Apart from a stalk of fish mint, the bowl held nothing else. Previously, Murong Shi had spat out the fish mint as soon as she took a bite out of it, probably because she couldn''t stand the taste. Afterward, shepletely and utterly refused to eat anything.


    Even until the end of the meal, Xu Chuanchuan saw that Murong Shi''s expression remained gloomy and twisted. While Murong Shi was going to retrieve the car, Xu Chuanchuan used this opportunity to buy a bottle of cultured milk from a nearby convenience store.


    "I want to drink it as well."


    pping her little sister''s thieving hand away, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I bought this for Miss Murong."


    While rubbing the back of her hand, Xu Xiangxiang leaned closer to her elder sister and said, "Now that''s right. You should work hard to form good rtions with Big Sis Shishi. That way, you''ll have a better future in thatpany of yours."


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless.


    After getting into the car, Xu Chuanchuan handed the cultured milk to Murong Shi and said awkwardly, "It won''t feel as disgusting anymore once you drink this."


    Turning around, Murong Shi looked Xu Chuanchuan in the eye for a moment before epting the cultured milk. "Thank you."


    Xu Xiangxiang was a talkative person, so she upied the passenger seat and chatted with Murong Shi throughout the entire trip home.


    Finding the noise to be too much, Xu Chuanchuan gently reprimanded Xu Xiangxiang, "Miss Murong is driving. Don''t bother her."


    Xu Xiangxiang nudged her mouth for a moment before falling silent. However, after a moment, she started feeling suffocated by the silence, so she turned around and asked Xu Chuanchuan, "Are you still looking for a house?"


    "Of course. I still haven''t found one yet," Xu Chuanchuan replied. Although the lecherous man no longer stalked her, nobody could guarantee that he wouldn''t reappear in the future. Not to mention, her rental contract was close to expiring already.


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Finding a house to rent by yourself won''t be easy. It''s also unsafe for you to stay alone. Why don''t you find a two-person apartment that''s close to my school? I''ll also have an easier time visiting you that way."


    Without even pondering on the idea, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s convenient for you, but what about me? How am I supposed to get to work?"


    "Take the subway, duh. There''s a subway station right outside my school. You don''t get nauseous from riding the subway, either."


    "We''ll see," Xu Chuanchuan said, ending the conversation. She didn''t find itfortable to discuss such a topic in front of Murong Shi.


    However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Murong Shi suddenly asked, "You''re moving?"


    "Ah, yes."


    Murong Shi pondered for a moment and said, "The ce you''re living in now is indeed unsafe."


    Xu Chuanchuan fell silent.


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang said, "That''s right. A man has been stalking her for the past few days."


    "Is it still that pervert?"


    Xu Chuanchuan grew embarrassed when she heard Xu Xiangxiang babble away about the stalker incident. However, since Murong Shi had asked, she couldn''t bring herself to remain silent. "Actually, I''m not sure if he intended to hurt me. When I saw his sleazy look, I justWait, what did you say?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had a subtle feeling when she heard Murong Shi''s words. Unfortunately, she couldn''t see Murong Shi''s expression right now, and she only heard the other party calmly responding, "I said, the person stalking you must be mentally ill or a pervert. In any case, you need to be careful."


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang interjected, "It''s not like that. That person watches my streams, and he mistook my sister for me. He''s not some bad guy."


    "Xu Xiangxiang, stop being so naive," Xu Chuanchuan said, rolling her eyes.


    Xu Xiangxiang then stopped speaking.


    A momentter, Murong Shi suggested, "How about moving into thepany dormitory?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had been asked this question several times before. Putting on an awkward look, she said, "I prefer to live alone."


    "Have you ever visited the dorms?"


    "No. Didn''t Linda say they look like standard hotel rooms?"


    After remaining silent for a moment, Murong Shi said, "There''s a unit with two separate rooms. If you wish to move in, you can go look for Linda."


    ...


    Murong Shi''s description of the dorm tempted Xu Chuanchuan. Hence, she decided to find Linda on Monday.


    At her request, Linda immediately brought her to the third floor for a tour and said, "It''s this one. This unit has two separate rooms, and I''m currently staying in one of them."


    Hearing Linda''s words, Xu Chuanchuan inwardly thought to herself, <em>Being the vice president''s assistant sure is great. Even the dorm she''s staying in is more special than others.</em>


    While biting on a big apple, Linda pointed at the other room and said, "This room was originally intended for Miss Murong''s afternoon naps, but she prefers to stay in her office, so this room has been left empty all this time. If you wish to move in, you can have this room."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "I can?"


    Still biting on the apple, Linda said, "Since Miss Murong doesn''t have any opinions about it, so, of course, you can. It''s unupied anyway."


    However, while Linda had said so to Xu Chuanchuan, inwardly, she wondered, <em>What kind of background does this Xu Chuanchuan have exactly? Why is Miss Murong taking such good care of her?</em>


    What Xu Chuanchuan needed was a confined space to herself. Linda also wasn''t a stranger to her, so when she saw that there was such a room avable, she couldn''t hide the joy in her heart at all.


    Without hesitation, Xu Chuanchuan decided to conclude her contract with herndlord next week and then begin moving her things to her new home.


    The day Fang Qin returned happened to be a weekend, so Murong Shi drove to the airport alone to pick her up.


    Despite losing contact for three years, Fang Qin''s appearance hardly changed from Murong Shi''s perspective. She wore arge pair of sunsses atop of her head, and her tall figure stood out like a sore thumb in the crowd. Murong Shi spotted her right away and waved at her.


    Fang Qin approached Murong Shi while pulling along tworge and heavy suitcases. After staring at Murong Shi''s face for some time, she shook her head and sighed. "You truly are a femme fatale. Not entering the film industry is a waste of your beauty."


    Ignoring Fang Qin''s words, Murong Shi helped her with one of her suitcases.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin spread her arms and said, "It''s been so long since we''ve seen each other. Gimme a hug first."


    However, Murong Shi cruelly pushed her friend away and said, "Stop being so embarrassing. Hurry up, and let''s go. We''re blocking the way."


    Rolling her eyes, Fang Qin said, "You''re neither gentle nor considerate. This is why you''re still single after all these years."


    Murong Shi initially thought to retaliate with her own words, but when she recalled that a certain someone had just been dumped, she decided to endure this slight.


    After the two women moved the tworge suitcases onto the car, Fang Qin wiped the sweat on her forehead and said, "Did Jiang Shaohua die in a ditch somewhere? I return home after such a long time, and that bastard couldn''t be bothered to receive me?"


    After closing the trunk, Murong Shi said, "He''s busy picking up girls."


    Snorting, Fang Qin said, "This horny bastard."


    "Do your parents know you''re back?"


    Fang Qin''s expression changed slightly upon hearing Murong Shi''s question. She then said, "I still haven''t figured out how I should face them, so keep them in the dark for now. I might have to stay in your ce for a few days as well. Will that be a problem?"


    Shaking her head, Murong Shi said, "As you wish. You can stay as long as you want."


    Despite not having seen each other for three years, the two of them behaved very inly. When they arrived back home, and Murong Mingshu saw Fang Qin, the older woman''s eyes immediately reddened. Murong Mingshu then cried while hugging Fang Qin.


    "It''s good that you''re back. It''s good that you''re back. Don''t go away from now on."


    Fang Qin, in a rare moment of sentimentality, sniffled and hugged Murong Mingshu tightly. "Mhm, I won''t go anywhere anymore."


    After Aunt Lian prepared the guest room for Fang Qin, Murong Shi moved Fang Qin''s luggage into the room.


    After Fang Qin took a shower, she promptly copsed onto her bed and fell asleep.


    Thinking that her friend had jetg, Murong Shi decided not to bother her for now.


    When night arrived, even Sun An hade home early for dinner after hearing about Fang Qin''s return.


    When Sun An asked if Fang Qin had found a boyfriend yet, Murong Shi noticed a hint of sadness shing across her friend''s eyes. The next moment, though, Fang Qin smiled and said, "I haven''t. Do you have someone to introduce me to, Uncle?"


    Laughing merrily, Sun An said, "Okay! Uncle will find a good one for you!"


    However, Murong Shi found Fang Qin''s fake smile a little unpleasant to look at.


    Fang Qin came in.


    Seeing that it was Fang Qin, Murong Shi left the balcony and signaled her friend to close the door. Now that the two of them were finally alone, Murong Shi asked, "Is everything okay with you?"


    "What''s wrong with me?"


    "You asked my father to help you find a boyfriend?"


    Pretending to be rxed, Fang Qin said, "If girls don''t want me,


    "Are you bi?"


    Sighing, Fang Qin said, "No."


    Frowning, Murong Shi said, "You only experienced one failed rtionship. Don''t write yourself off as hopeless and act recklessly."


    In Murong Shi''s opinion, although Fang Qin wasn''t a stunning beauty, there was nothing toin about her facial features and temperament. She also had a wild personality and was open to trying anything. However, when Fang Qin returned this time, Murong Shi had noticed the addition of some vicissitudes of life on her face. Whether these vicissitudes were caused by her break up or some other reason, Murong Shi did not know.


    Fang Qin was roughly as tall as Murong Shi. cing a hand on thetter''s shoulder, she said, "If things don''t work out, I''ll just settle with you."


    Her expression unfazed, Murong Shi coolly said, "I don''t have any feelings for you."


    "In my opinion, you don''t have any feelings for anyone. Are you perhaps sexually unresponsive?"


    Murong Shi''s mouth twitched as she said, "You''re staying in my house. Watch what you say."


    "Okay, okay, no more nonsense. I couldn''t find my charger. Do you have a spare that you can lend me?"


    Hearing this, Murong Shi approached her bedside cab and opened the lowermost drawer, revealing many random items inside.


    While crouching down to search for a spare charger, Murong Shi suddenly heard the person behind her asking, "You read novels as well?"


    Murong Shi promptly turned around and snatched the book out of Fang Qin''s hands. She then stuffed the book under her pillow.


    "Hey, let me take a look. I think I know this author."


    Murong Shi''s expression stalled for a moment before asking, "Do you know each other?"


    "No, I don''t know her personally." Taking advantage of Murong Shi''s brief moment of inattentiveness, Fang Qin snatched back the book and flipped through the pages. She then pointed at a picture and said, "These are all her drawings."


    "Which ''her''?"


    "The one who dumped me."

 Chapter 39: Pt.1

    Chapter 39: Pt.1


    Out of the six books Xu Chuanchuan sent over, Murong Shi had stored five of them inside a locked drawer and one of them under her pillow for reading when she had insomnia. She would also asionally take it out to read on a whim. Murong Shi never deliberately hid the book since she knew Aunt Lian wouldn''t touch her things casually. Unfortunately, due to a moment of negligence, she failed to ount for Fang Qin''s arrival.


    Fang Qin stared at the illustration on the title page, undisguised loneliness and sorrow on her face.


    Seeing this scene, Murong Shi couldn''t bear to snatch the book away from Fang Qin.


    Eventually, though, Fang Qin''s eyes started to hurt. Closing the book, she exhaled and exined, "She''s a person who loves to dream. She also likes drawing and reading novels, especially the works of this author. She says this author''s stories are all very sweet. She used to read this author''s works every day. Later on, when she heard that this author was going to publish a physical book, she took the initiative to help draw many pictures. She would ask for my opinion every time she drew a picture. As naive as I was at the time, I thought she was drawing our daily life."


    Probably because she had yet to get over her heartbreak, Fang Qin was reluctant even to mention her ex-partner''s name.


    Staring at her friend''s face, Murong Shi said, "You''d better stop smiling. It''s ugly as hell."


    Wiping the corner of her eyes, Fang Qin stubbornly said, "Don''t worry, I''m not sad at all. It''s not worth it."


    "Good that you''re aware of that. Hey, don''t damage my book," Murong Shi said as she reached out to snatch back the book.


    However, Fang Qin quickly moved the book out of Murong Shi''s reach. While smoothing out the pages she identally wrinkled, she muttered to herself, "At the time, this author deliberately sent her six books from China to her as a form of gratitude. After she broke up with me, she took away all of her things. She didn''t leave even one memento for me. I never thought such a weak and gentle person could be so merciless."


    Wrinkling her brows, Murong Shi said, "Stop thinking about unhappy matters."


    "I know. I''ll stop thinking about them," Fang Qin said, sighing. She then returned the book to Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi then passed the charger to Fang Qin.


    However, Fang Qin did not leave right away after receiving the item. Instead, she poked Murong Shi in the waist and asked in a whisper, "Do your parents know about your situation?"


    "What situation?"


    "That you don''t like men."


    "There''s no need for them to know for now."


    "Why?"


    Murong Shi fell silent.


    "I understand. You''ve been single for 26 years, after all."


    Instead of getting angry, Murong Shi calmly said, "They only know that I''m together with Jiang Shaohua right now."


    While fiddling around with the charger out of boredom, Fang Qin suddenly widened her eyes as she asked, "Jiang Shaohua? What do you mean?"


    "I mean it literally."


    Fang Qin''s hand movements paused. Looking at Murong Shi''s serious face, she pondered for a moment before saying, "There''s no way you and he will get together. So, are you using him as a shield?"


    "You can also say that we are mutually using each other."


    Fang Qin was surprised. She then began fearlessly scrutinizing Murong Shi''s body. She had even reached out to poke her breast.


    Murong Shi remained expressionless.


    Fang Qin poked Murong Shi in the waist again.


    Still maintaining a nk face, Murong Shi asked, "Is everything okay with you?"


    Covering her face, Fang Qin shouted exaggeratedly, "You didn''t react even in the slightest! I knew it! You''re sexually unresponsive!"


    Murong Shi''s face darkened. "You can scram now."


    Fang Qin scrammed.


    However, less than a minuteter, Fang Qin came running back, opening the door without knocking, and asked, "By the way, I remember her saying that this author doesn''t sell her physical books. How did you get one?"


    Murong Shi didn''t expect Fang Qin to ask such a question, so she was momentarily stunned. However, she quickly regained her calm and said, "I won it in a lottery on Weibo."


    Looking at her friend skeptically, Fang Qin asked, "Are you also a diehard fan of this author?"


    Murong Shi remained silent.


    Taking Murong Shi''s silence as an acknowledgment, Fang Qin said, "Even someone like you can read web novels? Is that author''s writing <em>that </em>good?"


    In response, Murong Shi briefly said, "It''s readable. Why are you asking so many questions? Do you want to read it as well?"


    Sneering, Fang Qin said, "Sweet romance stories are nothing but a bunch of lies. There''s no way I would believe these things."


    Fang Qin left for real this time.


    Afterward, Murong Shi spent half an hour soaking in the bath. When she came out of the bathroom, she saw her phone''s notification light blinking.


    She had received a new message on QQ. When she unlocked her phone, she found that she had received a message from a certain someone next door.


    Fang Qin: "What address do you usually use to buy stuff on Taobao?"


    Murong Shi: "I''ve never shopped on Taobao before."


    Fang Qin: "Then give me your home address and your phone number."


    Murong Shi: "Are you shopping online?"


    Fang Qin: "No, someone wants to send me something. Let me use your home address for now."


    Murong Shi didn''t overthink the request and quickly sent her address and phone number to Fang Qin.


    Fang Qin had just returned to the country and hadn''t found work yet. She also dared not return to her own home for now as she still had many preparations she needed to make. The next day, Murong Shi drove Fang Qin around the city, with their first destination being a China Mobile branch to register for a new sim card.


    While waiting for their turn, Murong Shi received a call on her private number. The caller was an unknown number, but it wasbeled as "Express Delivery" byizens. When Murong Shi epted the call, she heard the other party saying, "Hello, XX Express here. Is this Water Heart?"


    After conversing for around half a minute, Murong Shi put away her phone and said to the person sitting beside her, "Your delivery has arrived."


    "Already?" Fang Qin eximed.


    "It should be shipped from the same city. What are you receiving?"


    Fang Qin blinked for a moment before vaguely saying, "Just a few books."


    "Books?"


    After returning home, Murong Shi saw Fang Qin unpacking a delivery package and taking out six familiar physical books from within it. Upon seeing these books, Murong Shi''s expression immediately changed.


    Picking up the tattered box Fang Qin had thrown aside, Murong Shi quickly found the shippingbel pasted on it. When she saw the words "Xu XX" written in the sender''s name column, herplexion turned from blue to pale white. And when she looked at the sender''s address, her mind went nk.


    Murong Shi was incredibly familiar with this address. Not long ago, she, too, had received six books from this address. There was no doubt that Fang Qin''s books came from Xu Chuanchuan.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin had yet to notice her friend''s strange appearance. She had her head lowered as she carefully inspected the illustrations printed on the six books'' title pages.


    After snapping out of her daze, Murong Shi grabbed Fang Qin''s wrist and asked, "These books How did you get them?"


    A trace of unnaturalness shed across Fang Qin''s face. However, as she still had her head buried in the books, she failed to notice the expression Murong Shi was currently making. In a muffled voice, she said, "I went on Weibo and messaged the author. After exchanging a few messages with her, she said she would give me these books."


    "What did you talk to her about?"


    Her eyes drooping slightly, Fang Qin said, "It''s nothing. I just told her the story of <em>that </em>person and me. She probably felt sorry for me."


    Fang Qin wasn''t as calm as she portrayed herself to be. When she saw <em>that </em>person''s art against night, she couldn''t help but lose control over the emotions she had kept sealed away. However, as Fang Qin didn''t wish to show weakness in front of Murong Shi, she secretly visited the author''s Weibo after returning to her room.


    Coincidentally, the author had also been hosting a giveaway for her physical booksst night. Unfortunately, Fang Qin did not win the raffle. Afterward, Fang Qin struck up a conversation with the author and asked if she could spend money to buy a set of her physical books.


    As for her story with <em>that </em>person, Fang Qin didn''t go into detail about it. She merely stated that the artist was her ex-girlfriend, and the author generously offered to give her those physical books for free.


    Fang Qin only wanted to have a memento to remember her rtionship with <em>that </em>person. If she confessed to this fact, she felt that Murong Shi would definitelyugh at her. Though, Fang Qin also knew that Murong Shi wasn''t dumb and guessed that her friend had probably seen through her thoughts by now.


    However, contrary to Fang Qin''s expectations, she didn''t hear any ridicule orughter even after some time had passed. Lifting her head out of curiosity, she found Murong Shi staring at the shippingbel with an odd expression.


    "What are you looking at?"


    Although Fang Qin had used her pen name for her recipient name, the phone number was a dead giveaway. If Xu Chuanchuan noticed it


    ring at Fang Qin, Murong Shi said, "You''ve just thrown me under the bus."


    "What?"


    Xu Chuanchuan spent an entire morning packing delivery packages. After finally giving away all her remaining physical books, she became so exhausted that even her hands shook as she held her phone.


    She had hosted a giveaway for her remaining physical booksst night. By the time she was done collecting the winners'' information and filling in the necessary shippingbels, it was already long past midnight.


    For the giveaway, apart from an outlier, the other winners were selected through a raffle. Although she had paid slightly more attention when she wrote down the outlier''s information, she didn''t deliberately memorize it.


    As to why she suddenly decided to give away all of her stockpiled physical books, it was because she had decided to move into thepany dormitory. Before moving, though, she needed to get rid of all those bulky books. Hence, she made a Weibo postst week stating that she would host a giveaway for those books.


    At this time, Ange sent a message asking if she wanted to have a writing session together. However, as she was exhausted after the packing, she replied, "I''m taking a day off."


    Ange entered the "Dark Room" all by herself.


    Two hourster, Ange finished her 6,000-word quota for the day and sent her a message: "Have you finished delivering all the books?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Mhm."


    Ange: "How fast of you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I don''t have a choice. I should move out as soon as possible for my safety. I still need to pack my belongingster. I feel exhausted just thinking about it."


    Ange: "Get your sister to help you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Forget it. I''ll get mad again if I see her."


    Ange: "Is she still streaming?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "She stopped under my coercion."


    The coercion here referred to their parents. In exchange for stopping her streaming gig, Xu Chuanchuan also offered her little sister an addition of 300 yuan to her monthly allowance.


    Ange: "Citrus stopped streaming recently as well. She''s not writing anymore, either. She seems to have suddenly disappeared."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How do you know that? Don''t tell me you watch her streams?"


    Ange: "Her dances are very stimting."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange: "You''ll get a nosebleed if you watch them."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange: "Hey, all women will have physical needs after reaching a certain age. I only asionally watch her."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Dare I ask how old you are this year?"


    Ange: "We are the same age."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Oh. Then howe I don''t have those kinds of needs?"


    Ange: "This shows that your body still isn''t fully developed. "


    Xu Chuanchuan: "To hell with you." <em>There she goes with the nonsense again.</em>


    As she had just worked up a sweat, Xu Chuanchuan found it ufortable to stay lying on her bed. So, she climbed out of her bed and began packing her belongings.


    She didn''t have a lot of belongings. The only cumbersome item she needed to move was her PC. Fortunately, she lived on the first floor, so moving it wouldn''t be too much of a trouble.


    The next day, she transferred all of her packed belongings to thepany.


    As Linda wasn''t staying in the dorm today, Xu Chuanchuan yed some music on her phone while unpacking her stuff. After working tirelessly for a few hours, she finally finished setting up her new home. She then took a few pictures of the room and sent them to Ange.


    Ange: "The room''s quite big. The bed''srge as well. Yourpany''s employee welfare sure is wonderful."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That''s because this room was originally prepared for my boss''s daughter."


    Ange: "What? You''re living with her???"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What are you thinking?!?! I''m living alone!!! [Blood Vomit][Blood Vomit][Blood Vomit]"


    Ange: "That gave me a scare. I thought you had fallen already."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Your brain is too imaginative!"


    Ange: "How will I write novels if I don''t have a good imagination?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had noebacks for this.

 Chapter 39: Pt.2

    Chapter 39: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan swiped her finger across the screen, switching to the next page of her home screen. When she saw a red number ovepping the WeChat icon, she clicked on the app and found that she had received two private messages.


    Both were messages thanking her and stating that they had already received her delivery.


    Of these two people, one lived in the next city, and one lived in the same city as her. However, because of a certain message''s content, Xu Chuanchuan had a deeper impression of thetter of the two.


    Water Heart: "Dear author, hello. Do you still remember Ling Yue? She is my ex-girlfriend. I know she has drawn a lot of paintings for you. Can I please buy those six books from you? I wish to collect her paintings as they hold a lot of good memories between her and me."


    Xu Chuanchuan liked Ling Yue''s art style a lot. So, when making physical copies of her books, she had asked the other party for permission to use those paintings as illustrations in her books. Meanwhile, not only did Ling Yue agree to the request, but she even refused to ept any money for the art. So, instead of mary payment, Xu Chuanchuan had sent her a copy of the six books she printed. Sometimeter, though, Ling Yue suddenly vanished and stopped following her work for some reason.


    After such a long time, Xu Chuanchuan never thought that Ling Yue''s ex-girlfriend would suddenlye knocking on her door, and she couldn''t help but be shocked by this situation. Fortunately, as it so happened that she was having a "clearance sale," she readily agreed to theizen named Water Heart''s request.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw that the other party''s address was located in the same city, she inadvertently thought about Passerby Shi.


    Had Xu Chuanchuan possessed the ability to remember everything she saw at a nce, she would''ve noticed that the phone number she received was the same as Passerby Shi''s phone number.


    The next day, Xu Chuanchuan came across Murong Shi in the corridor outside the general manager''s office. Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan greeted, "Good morning, Miss Murong."


    "Morning," Murong Shi replied. Then, just as the two of them were about to brush past each other, Murong Shi stopped and said to Linda, who stood behind her, "You head over first."


    "Okay," Linda responded and left without another word.


    When Murong Shi stopped walking, Xu Chuanchuan also stopped. Their gazes then intersected with each other.


    Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi seemed to like wearing stiletto heels, especially the exceptionally tall ones. Every time she stood near Murong Shi, she would feel as if she had be a dwarf. She needed to tilt her head even to see Murong Shi''s face. Though, as luck would have it, this action also allowed her to relieve her stiff neck.


    After the staring contest continued for some time, Xu Chuanchuan noticed something peculiar about Murong Shi''s gaze. Despite those beautiful eyes radiating no emotion whatsoever, they stared at her intently.


    Xu Chuanchuan got goosebumps in her heart. Then, swallowing her saliva, she asked, "Is there something on my face?"


    In just a second, Murong Shi''s eyes regained their calmness. However, instead of answering Xu Chuanchuan''s question, Murong Shi asked, "Have you gotten used to living in the dorm yet?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly nodded and said in a slightly ttering tone, "It''s toofortable. The bed is very soft, and the air conditioner is also quiet."


    After hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s response, Murong Shi narrowed her eyes and intently stared at the other party''s face once more. She then asked, "Do...you have any questions you wish to ask me?"


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes a few times before saying, "Oh, yes. Do you really not need that room?"


    "I don''t."


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief.


    "Apart from this, do you have any other questions?" Murong Shi asked once more.


    <em>Murong Shi''s showing concern to me? No, Xu Chuanchuan, you need to have more self-awareness. </em>Xu Chuanchuan wore a dumbfounded look on her face when she heard Murong Shi''s question. She couldn''t understand what was going on with the other party today. She then stiffly shook her head and said, "None for now."


    Murong Shi then continued staring at Xu Chuanchuan''s face for some time. Eventually, though, she left without saying another word.


    After Murong Shi left, Xu Chuanchuan quickly made her way to the washroom and carefully inspected her face in front of the mirror. However, apart from two faint dark circles under her eyes, she didn''t find anything strange on her face.


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more she found Murong Shi''s previous behavior strange.


    Xu Chuanchuan had be somewhat of an introvert over the years because of her part-time writing profession. Initially, she had been worried about how she should interact with her new roommate Linda. However, sheter realized that her worries were unfounded.


    Linda lived together with her boyfriend outside, and she only used the dorm for afternoon naps. If Xu Chuanchuan kept the door to her room shut, they would almost never see each other in the dorm. So, there was virtually no interaction between each other.


    Sometimes, Linda wouldn''t evene back for an afternoon nap because she was too busy with work. So naturally, this led to Xu Chuanchuan feeling a little guilty for upying a two-bedroom apartment by herself.


    Xu Chuanchuan had moved into the dorm for nearly a week now, and the words she exchanged with Linda exceeded no more than ten sentences. She also found that Linda''s attitude toward her was a little cold during this period, though she didn''t think this to be particrly strange. Linda was, after all, Murong Shi''s assistant. To avoid any misunderstandings, Xu Chuanchuan decided to keep her distance from Linda.


    This kind of cold rtionshipsted for a while. That was until one day, Linda returned to the dorm right after Xu Chuanchuan did.


    Xu Chuanchuan greeted Linda, but Linda didn''t even pay attention to her.


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled awkwardly in this situation. Then, just when she was about to head to her room to rest, she noticed Linda''s reddened eyes and nose out of the corner of her eye. Taken aback, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why are you crying?"


    Linda avoided Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze and entered themon bathroom without saying a word.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew a little worried when she heard suppressed cryinging through the shut door, yet she also dared not disturb Linda.


    Linda''s appearance just now looked like someone who had just gotten bullied but dared not say anything about it. When Xu Chuanchuan thought of such a possibility, she inadvertently linked her thoughts to Murong Shi.


    <em>Did Murong Shi''s overaggressive behavior make Linda cry?</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan woke up the following day, she did not see Linda in the apartment.


    Later on, as soon as she stepped into the Engineering Department''s office, the department chief came to her and said, "Little Xu, Linda applied for a long leave. You will be taking her ce during her absence. Just do whatever Miss Murong tells you to do."


    Xu Chuanchuan was thunderstruck!


    For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan suspected that she was still asleep. Then, with a dazed look, she asked, "Why me?"


    Rolling his eyes, the department chief said, "Apart from the front desk''s Xu Xiaomei, you have the most leisurely work in ourpany. If not you, who else should we look for?"


    <em>Why don''t you mention that she and I also receive the lowest pay?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not speak her thoughts. With an aggrieved look, she asked, "What about the work in our department?"


    "Finish it after working hours if you can''tplete them. It''s not like you don''t get paid overtime. Not to mention, you''re living in the dorm now. You don''t have anything better to do at night, right? Well, move along. Miss Murong has called for you."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not care about overtime pay in the slightest. The only thing she worried about was whether she would have time and energy to write her novel for the next few nights.


    <em>My poor stockpile</em>


    Seeing her department chief shooing her away, Xu Chuanchuan felt an even greater urge to cry.


    Xu Chuanchuan walked with heavy steps as she made her way to Murong Shi''s office. When she recalled Linda''s reddened eyes, the conjectures she made yesterday resurfaced in her mind.


    <em>If that She-Devil can cause even a cheerful person like Linda to run away while crying, what will happen to a department assistant with no power or influence like myself?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan knocked and entered Murong Shi''s office withplicated feelings in her heart. To her surprise, Murong Shi was currently seeing a guest.


    While pointing at the guest seated on the lounge sofa, Murong Shi said to Xu Chuanchuan, "Make a cup of coffee for her, and add some milk to it."


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at the person sitting on the sofa, she found that the other party was a beautiful woman with an extraordinary temperament. The woman looked young and beautiful, and she was dressed very casually. Rather than a business partner, she looked more like Murong Shi''s friend instead.


    Out of courtesy, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and nodded at the other party.


    "Hello, I''m Fang Qin," Fang Qin said as she stood up and shook Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m Xu Chuanchuan."


    "Wow, what a cute girl! Your surname is also Xu?"


    Upon hearing Fang Qin''s words, Murong Shi immediately faked a cough and sternly said, "No chit-chatting during working hours."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face stiffened, and she quickly withdrew her hand. She then faced Murong Shi and asked respectfully, "Do you want me to make a cup for you, too?"


    "I don''t need it."


    Xu Chuanchuan then left for the pantry.


    When Xu Chuanchuan returned with a hot cup of coffee, Fang Qin stood up to receive it and said, "Thank you, thank you."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan reminded Fang Qin that the cup was hot.


    Linda had left without leaving any notes regarding her work, so Xu Chuanchuan was unsure what she needed to do. Finally, with no better options, she walked to the desk and asked Murong Shi.


    Pointing at the several documents on the desk, Murong Shi said, "Sign them and hand it out to the various departments."


    "Then What about afterward?"


    Sending a nce at the person on the sofa, Murong Shi said, "I''ll call you when somethinges up."


    "Okay." Xu Chuanchuan then left the room with the documents.


    While closing the door, Xu Chuanchuan faintly heard Fang Qin mentioning the words "books" and "present." But, of course, she didn''t dawdle to continue listening in on the conversation.


    To be precise, the entire content of what Fang Qin said was: "The author so generously gifted me six books. I don''t feelfortable taking something for free. Do you think I should buy her a gift in return?"


    Murong Shi pursed her lips tightly and looked toward the tightly shut wooden door.


    Influenced by her friend, Fang Qin also looked toward the door but failed to find anything strange about it.


    When Fang Qin turned back, she found that Murong Shi was still staring at the door. Waving her hand, she stared at her friend''s dark, slender eyes and asked, "Do you like her?"


    Retracting her gaze, Murong Shi frowned and said, "What nonsense."


    "If you don''t like her, why were you staring at the door for so long?"


    TL Notes:


    Please don''t hate Linda. She has her reasons for behaving like that. :(

 Chapter 40: Pt.1

    Chapter 40: Pt.1


    After Fang Qin left, Xu Chuanchuan got called into the office.


    Looking at the shorter woman, Murong Shi tly said, "Something happened in Linda''s family, so she''s taking a leave to visit home. Unfortunately, Ick hands on my side, so I had no choice but to transfer you over temporarily. I hope you can understand this."


    Lowering her gaze, Xu Chuanchuan said, "As long as it is something I can do, feel free to order me around."


    "Linda normally has a huge workload."


    Xu Chuanchuan revealed a terrified look at these words.


    Murong Shi chuckled at Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. She then added, "She is mainly responsible for the Business Department''s work. This job involves a lot of work, so I had her pass it over to the Business Department''s assistant for the time being. Your job isparatively simple and trivial. I''ll call you when I have work for you, so standby and be ready to take orders."


    Sighing in relief, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I understand."


    As Murong Shi said, she only gave Xu Chuanchuan misceneous jobs such as delivering documents and sending emails. None of the jobs wereplicated.


    Xu Chuanchuan still spent most of her time in the Engineering Department, and she had more than enough time to finish her work in the Engineering Department. If not for Murong Shi asionally calling for her, she would''ve even forgotten that she was upholding another position.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially worried that she would have difficulty coping with Murong Shi. However, sheter discovered that Murong Shi wasn''t a difficult person at all. On the contrary, it was rtively easy to speak to her.


    One time, Xu Chuanchuan was delivering documents to Murong Shi after work. Murong Shi appeared to be busy at the time, and she didn''t even look away from theputer when Xu Chuanchuan entered the room.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan softly asked, "Do you need me for anything else?"


    Murong Shi was impervious to outside interference when she was focused on work. Only after Xu Chuanchuan had asked several times did she snap out of her focus and said, "This is the afternoon meeting''s minutes. Organize it and email it to me."


    Xu Chuanchuan epted the notebook and saw a bunch of words cramped onto the front piece of paper.


    Apart from signatures, this was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had seen Murong Shi''s handwriting. Murong Shi wrote her words with powerful strokes and slender fonts. And although she had written the notes carefreely, her words were still neat and clear. Overall, Murong Shi''s handwriting was just like herself, pleasing to the eyes.


    "If you don''t know how to organize it, you can reference the emails Linda sent to me previously. I''ll give you half an hour. It''s now" Murong Shi nced at the bottom right corner of herputer.


    After waiting for some time and not hearing a reply, Xu Chuanchuan thought Murong Shi''sputer did not show the time. She then looked at her phone and said, "It''s now six-thirty. Please rest assured. I''ll sort it out and send it to you before seven."


    However, Murong Shi suddenly took away the notebook and said, "No need. You can leave now."


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why?"


    "Aren''t you hungry?"


    "I am."


    "Go have dinner, then. You aren''t needed here."


    When Xu Chuanchuan walked out of the office, she felt as if she was dreaming. In the past, she used to think that Murong Shi was an unapproachable person. When she saw Linda crying not long ago, she even suspected that Murong Shi was the culprit However, in thatst moment, she could sense the care Murong Shi had for her subordinates in her words.


    When Xu Chuanchuan thought back to how she had previously badmouthed Murong Shi, she couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of guilt.


    The second time Xu Chuanchuan had a change in opinion toward Murong Shi was during a weekend dinner party with the Business Department.


    The Business Department''s manager decided to treat his subordinates to a meal, and when he came to invite Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan just so happened to be in the office. So, the manager said to her, "Little Xu, you join as well."


    Typically, Xu Chuanchuan would refuse invites to such dinner parties if possible. However, she was currently standing in for Linda. Since Murong Shi was going to attend the gathering, she couldn''t avoid attending it as well.


    The dinner venue was a restaurant close to thepany. When the food arrived, the Business Department''s manager held up a ss of beer and said, "Come,e, let us toast to Miss Murong."


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "I''m driving, so I''ll have to use juice as a recement."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi pouring juice into her ss, she, too, poured herself juice instead of beer. However, the Business Department''s manager noticed her actions and pointed it out, saying, "Little Xu, you''re not driving, so how can you drink juice? Change it to beer! Beer, I say!"


    With no way out of this situation, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to get herself a new ss and fill it with beer. She then finished the beer with a painful expression on her face.


    Halfway through the meal, Murong Shi left to answer a call. When she returned, she wore a gloomy expression on her face. She then leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "If you don''t wish to stay here, you cane with me."


    Xu Chuanchuan had long since been wishing to leave, so she nodded her head in a hurry.


    Murong Shi then put on a smile and said to everyone else, " Sorry, everyone, but I have something to do, so I''ll be taking my leave first. You guys have fun."


    Murong Shi then left the room with Xu Chuanchuan following behind her.


    Turning around, Murong Shi said, "I won''t be sending you, so be careful on your way back."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt ttered. Seeing that Murong Shi was in quite a hurry, she said, "You, too. Drive safely."


    Murong Shi did not waste even a moment. As soon as she drove her car onto the main road, her phone suddenly rang.


    Several minutes ago, her father had given her a call and said, "Hurry back."


    Although Sun An had spoken in a very calm tone, Murong Shi had smelled the scent of gunpowder in his words.


    Now, when she saw the words "Jiang Shaohua" disyed on her ringing phone, the ominous feeling Murong Shi felt grew stronger and stronger. Finally, after pausing for a moment, she picked up the call.


    After the call connected, Jiang Shaohua said in a suppressed but anxious tone, "Murong, you best prepare yourself. Our fathers found out about our affair."


    The cause of this incident originated from a promiscuous party Jiang Shaohua and his friends held. The venue of the party was a hot spring hotel owned by the Jiang family. When the men were having a fun time with arge group of beautiful women, Jiang Shaohua''s father and Sun An suddenly crashed the party. The two of them then dragged the then-naked Jiang Shaohua off the bed.


    Afterward, Jiang Shaohua''s father was so enraged by his son''s actions that he had given Jiang Shaohua two big ps on the face in front of three trembling and naked women.


    Meanwhile, Sun And then sternly questioned, "Shaohua, how can you do this to Little Shi?"


    Faced with the two elders'' usations and scolding, Jiang Shaohua covered his hurting face and had no choice but to confess. "Uncle, Murong and I aren''t together anymore."


    Murong Shi''s right eyelid twitched when she heard Jiang Shaohua''s ount. Then, while faking calmness, she said, "I got it."


    Half an hourter, Murong Shi arrived back home. As soon as she walked through the front door, Sun An had called her to his study.


    Sun An''s body stank of alcohol, his face was flushed, and his eyes were bloodshot. He also wore a very fierce expression on his face. As soon as Murong Shi closed the door behind her, he got straight to the point and asked, "What''s going on with you and Shaohua?"


    At this point, there was no longer any meaning in hiding the truth. Even Murong Shi did not expect Jiang Shaohua to slip up to such an extent. However, since the situation had already developed to this extent, there was no longer any need for her to continue acting. Sighing, she said, "We broke up a long time ago."


    "When did it happen?"


    Looking at Sun An with a straight face, Murong Shi said, "It''s been a while."


    Unhappy with the reply, Sun An asked, "Why didn''t you tell me?"


    "I was too busy with work and forgot."


    "This is nothing but an excuse!" Sun An mmed his palm on the desk in front of him, creating a loud bang. "You refused to get engaged before, and you even secretly broke up without telling us! You are clearly trying to oppose me!"


    Without blinking, Murong Shi steadily said, "This isn''t an excuse. He and I are not a good match. We would''ve separated sooner orter."


    Angrily, Sun An said, "You kept such an important matter hidden from me! Do you even think of me as your father?!"


    Murong Shi stayed silent for a moment. She then said, "Dad, let me ask you a question. If the person I got together with back then wasn''t Jiang Shaohua but some other man instead, would you get as excited as you are now?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "In your eyes, money and reputation are the most important, right? If my partner wasn''t Jiang Shaohua, or if Uncle Jiang wasn''t so wealthy, you would''ve long been eager for us to break up, wouldn''t you?"


    The fat on Sun An''s face twitched. Then, while pointing at his daughter''s nose, he shouted, "Watch who you''re talking to! I''m your father!"


    Murong Shi stopped speaking.


    Seeing that his daughter''s carefree attitude, Sun An grew even more incensed as he said, "I am truly disappointed in you."


    However, instead of getting angry, Murong Shi sneered and said, "To be honest, I''m disappointed in you too."


    "What did you say?"


    "You aren''t apetent husband, much less apetent father. Apart from money and profit, what else do you have in your eyes?"


    Exploding in rage, Sun An bellowed, "Bastard!"


    A crisp sound echoed throughout the room as Murong Shi received a heavy p to the face.


    When this p came down, both upants of the room froze.


    A red mark in the shape of a palm immediately appeared on Murong Shi''s white cheek, and her bangs had be a mess. While her head was buzzing incessantly, Murong Shi looked at the person in front of her in disbelief. She also found the man foreign.


    At this time, Sun An snapped out of his daze and tried to touch Murong Shi''s face while saying, "Little Shi, dad didn''t"


    Murong Shi avoided his touch in disgust.


    It was a dark evening, and dark clouds covered the sky like a gigantic. Murong Shi had run away from home out of impulse, but she was now at a loss on where to go.


    She had turned off her phone already, so apart from the engine''s sound, there was only an eerie silence and the scorching heat inside the car.


    Because of the coldness overflowing from her heart, she had forgotten that she hadn''t turned on the car''s air conditioning. Right now, the only thing her body could feel was the stinging paining from her right cheek.


    Murong Shi had never been close to Sun An since childhood. Originally, she thought that she had long since gotten used to this situation. However, when Sun An''s palmnded on her face, although she didn''t feel any physical pain, she felt her heart seizing.


    After aimlessly wandering the streets for some time, Murong Shi eventually drove her car to thepany.


    Thepany had long since be deserted at this time, and the dark offices looked no different from graveyards. As the sound of Murong Shi''s high heels hitting the floor reverberated throughout the building''s interior, the sound-activated lights came on one by one. Eventually, she arrived before the familiar wooden door and opened it.


    When the blue light radiating from Murong Shi''s desktop reflected on her face, half of her face had already be swollen.


    At this point, only by working could she shut out all distractions from her mind. Murong Shi also brewed herself a strong cup of coffee. As she did not add any sugar or milk, the coffee was so bitter that she nearly spat it out.

 Chapter 40: Pt.2

    Chapter 40: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan had a minor writer''s block today. By the time she returned to the dorm and showered, it was already nine o''clock. After turning on herputer and struggling till ten o''clock, she barely managed to write a thousand words.


    When her inspiration dried outpletely, she looked back and read what she wrote. However, the more she read, the more she felt that her work today was a pile of crap. Eventually, gritting her teeth, she deleted the thousand words she wrote.


    Now, facing her was a nk document. After staring idly at the nk document for nearly ten minutes, her brain remained as empty as the document, and she couldn''t help but grow frustrated.


    Unfortunately, her keyboard was too expensive to smash, and she wouldn''t have a recement if she broke her mouse. She also didn''t wish to vent her frustration on herself. So, whenever she had writer''s block, she would solve it using one of three methods: eating, showering, or running in ce.


    She had just eaten a bowl of instant noodles. If she ate any more, her waist would start growing horizontally. So, she chose to run in ce. If inspiration still didn''te to her after her run, then she would take another shower.


    In any case, it waste at night now. There wouldn''t be anyone present in the offices downstairs, so she wouldn''t have to worry about disturbing anyone.


    Running in ce also allowed her to exercise her muscles that had stiffened because of her sedentary lifestyle.


    After running for a minute, she still didn''t get any inspiration.


    Two minutes, nothing.


    Three minutes, still nothing.


    Xu Chuanchuan started growing out of breath at the five-minute mark, so she gradually slowed down and stopped. Just as she was about to pull out a chair and take a seat, her phone sitting on the desk suddenly rang.


    Xu Chuanchuan had her mind entirely focused on her story''s plotline, so the sudden call gave her a jump. When she picked up her phone and saw a foreign number, she thought it was a spam call. However, after several seconds, her phone still kept ringing, so she decided to connect the call.


    "Hello?"


    As soon as the call connected, the person on the other end scolded, "What are you doing up there sote at night?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned at the sudden scolding. However, she also found this voice exceptionally familiar. With uncertainty in her tone, she asked, "Are you...Miss Murong?"


    "Who else would it be? A ghost?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless. After calming herself, she asked, "Why are you calling me at thiste hour?"


    In a nasty tone, Murong Shi said, "You are making too much noise for me to work."


    "Work?" Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily confused. Then, realization struck her when she recalled Murong Shi''s first words. "You mean you''re in the office now?"


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    At this moment, Xu Chuanchuan finally understood why this room was sorge. It turned out that the space below it was none other than Murong Shi''s office.


    <em>But didn''t she leave ahead of time because she had something to do just now? So why did shee back to work overtime at thiste hour?</em>


    As an afterthought, Xu Chuanchuan wondered if she had to head downstairs and wait on Murong Shi as well now that she was working as Murong Shi''s temporary assistant.


    "Do you need me to go down?"


    "No need. Just be quiet upstairs."


    The call ended.


    Xu Chuanchuan could feel an eerie auraing from Murong Shi through the phone. She then carefully set down her phone and carefully pulled out the chair. However, despite her best efforts to be quiet, her mechanical keyboard was too powerful. Every character she typed generated a loud and crisp click.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "My boss''s daughter is working overtime downstairs while I was running upstairs, and she just called to threaten me!"


    Ange: "Why were you running in the middle of the night?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Exercise, of course."


    Ange: "Other people are exercising in bed at night, while you''re running at night."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Can we not have a proper conversation?</em>


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought of something and wondered, Why does Murong Shi have my number?


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan had picked up her phone was about to check her call history, her screen suddenly shed and started ringing again. When she saw that it was the same number as before, she couldn''t help but be frightened.


    Warily, she epted the call and greeted, "Hello?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had already prepared herself to receive a scolding. However, she never expected Murong Shi to say, "Do you have anything to eat up there?"


    "Uh, I only have some cultured milk, instant noodles, and a few apples. Do you want them?"


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "I''ll take the noodles."


    <em>Murong Shi''s asking me for instant noodles in the middle of the night? What has the worlde to?</em>


    Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Then, I''ll make it and bring it down to you."


    "Can you handle the dark?"


    <em>Are you looking down on me?</em>


    <em>Alright, fine, I am afraid.</em>


    After hearing no response for a moment, Murong Shi added, "Forget it. I''ll go up instead."


    !!!


    Xu Chuanchuan threw her phone aside when she heard that Murong Shi would being upstairs. She then hurriedly stuffed the pile of clothes behind her chair into the cupboard and kicked her scattered shoes under the bed. Just when she was about to tidy up her bed, though, she suddenly came to her senses.


    <em>She''s not going to enter my room, so what am I getting nervous about?</em>


    Fortunately, nobody had used the living room thus far, so the floor was clean, and the sofa was spotless. However, as soon as Xu Chuanchuan started boiling the water, she heard the sound of the doorknob being twisted. By the time she walked over to the door, she found that Murong Shi had already opened the door and entered.


    Xu Chuanchuan stared at the key in Murong Shi''s hands with widened eyes.


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Murong Shi exined, "There are three copies of the front door''s key. You, Linda, and I each have one."


    Upon hearing words, Xu Chuanchuan recalled that the room she currently stayed in had initially been prepared for Murong Shi. If that were the case, then it wouldn''t be strange for Murong Shi to have a copy of the front door''s key as well. Then, smiling awkwardly, she said, "I only have pickled cabbage and beef noodles. Do you want it?"


    "Whatever."


    "Wait a moment, then. The water is still boiling." Pointing at the sofa, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Have a seat first."


    Xu Chuanchuan preferred to avoid doing the dishes, so she had always been buying instant noodles that came packaged in stic bowls. So, after grabbing a bowl out of the fridge, she crouched in front of the coffee table. However, just when she was about to tear open the packaging


    "Thank you, but I can take it from here," Murong Shi said. "You can go back and do your stuff."


    Retracting her hands, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s fine. I''m not busy." There was no way she could leave Murong Shi here and continue writing in her room. Not to mention, she didn''t have a clue on how she should proceed with her novel right now.


    While watching Murong Shi tear open the packaging, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You''re still working at thiste hour?"


    "Mhm."


    At this time, a "ding" came from the electric kettle, indicating that the water was done boiling. Xu Chuanchuan quickly ran over and brought the kettle over. When the hot water came into contact with the dry noodles and seasoning, the smell of pickled cabbage wafted out of the container, causing Xu Chuanchuan to drool.


    "You don''t normally eat instant noodles, right?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in an attempt to make conversation.


    "I don''t typically eat it, but it seems you do," Murong Shi said as she looked at the trash can under the coffee table. Currently, the trash can held an empty stic bowl simr to the one on the table.


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled awkwardly. The next second, however, she could no longer bring herself to smile.


    "One bowl shouldn''t be enough to fill you, right?"


    "...I ate a little during the dinner party, so I wasn''t particrly hungry"


    The water was piping hot, so it cooked the noodles in no time at all.


    When they parted at the restaurant, Murong Shi had her hair tied into a ponytail. Now, she had let her hair down, letting it scatter across her back and giving her more of a feminine air. If Murong Shi wasn''t holding a bowl of instant noodles in her hand, Xu Chuanchuan felt that this scene before her would''ve been perfect. Finding it awkward to stare at someone eating, she decided to hide in her room for the time being.


    When Xu Chuanchuan came back out ten minutester, Murong Shi had already finished the noodles. However, she hadn''t touched any of the pickled cabbage or drank any of the soup.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you done eating?"


    Turning to Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Do you have anything to drink?"


    "I have some cultured milk."


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "Why is everything sour?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at the pickled cabbage floating in the bowl again, she guessed that Murong Shi disliked sour foods and beverages. She then pointed at the kettle on the coffee table, "How about water? But I don''t have any extra cups"


    "There''s water downstairs as well," Murong Shi stated. Then, after letting her eyes wander around for a moment, she suddenly asked in a calm tone, "Do you have alcohol?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised by Murong Shi''s question. She then replied, "I don''t have any alcohol here."


    "Call for a delivery, then."


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but look at Murong Shi in stunned silence. She kept getting the feeling that Murong Shi was different than usual. Currently, Murong Shi had covered half of her face with her hair, and her dark eyes did not possess their usual sharpness and elegance. Instead, her eyes looked a bit dull.


    Cautiously, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you in a bad mood?"


    Without showing any expressions, Murong Shi said, "No, I just suddenly have a desire to drink.''


    "But how will you drive home if you drink?"


    Murong Shi lowered her gaze at these words. She then softly said, "I never intended to go back."


    This time, Xu Chuanchuan was finally certain that Murong Shi was in a bad mood, even if the person herself refused to admit it.


    <em>But why? Did she fight with her boyfriend?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not inquire too much. She also mentally struggled with whether she should say someforting words. But would someone as strong as Murong Shi need others tofort her?


    During Xu Chuanchuan''s moment of hesitation, she heard Murong Shi saying, "If you don''t want to drink, forget it." Then, standing up, she continued, "Sorry for disturbing you. The noodles were delicious. Thank you very much."


    With her heels on, Murong Shi was a head taller than Xu Chuanchuan. At that moment, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly found Murong Shi''s body to be somewhat frail, and she suddenly had the urge to run forward and hug the taller woman


    Xu Chuanchuan was frightened by this unexpected thought of hers. Amidst her surprise, her gaze came into contact with Murong Shi''s enigmatic eyes. Panicking, she said without thinking, "If you really want to drink, I can apany you."


    This time, it was Murong Shi''s turn to be surprised.


    Humans were visual animals. Whether one was a man or woman, they should have a tough time refusing the request of someone as beautiful as Murong Shi. Xu Chuanchuan was no exception.


    An hourter, Xu Chuanchuan started regretting her impulsive decision.


    The delivery they ordered arrived half an hour ago. They ordered only beer without any side dishes. Xu Chuanchuan had a low alcohol tolerance, so she could only drink one can and not a sip more.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi downing two whole cans without stopping, she couldn''t help but be dumbfounded.


    Xu Chuanchuan was sure something was wrong with Murong Shi tonight.


    Originally, Xu Chuanchuan wanted to say, "You should stop drinking," but changed her words to, "Doesn''t your stomach feel bloated?"


    However, Murong Shi ignored her and grabbed her third can.


    In a moment of recklessness, Xu Chuanchuan snatched the can out of Murong Shi''s hand and said, "You really should stop drinking. You still need to work tomorrow."


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "Tomorrow''s a weekend." She then reached out to snatch back the can.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan leaned back and moved the can out of Murong Shi''s reach.


    Murong Shi grew a little annoyed when she ended up empty-handed.


    Maybe it was the beer at work, but Xu Chuanchuan suddenly found herself emboldened. She then circled Murong Shi and attempted to stash the can away. But, as she walked past Murong Shi, she suddenly felt something wrapping around her wrist tightly.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could make out what was going on, her body was pulled aside, and an arm wrapped around her neck. Immediately afterward, she felt a pair of cooling lips sealing her mouth.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s breathing grew stagnant, and her brain froze as if her soul had just been sucked out of her body.

 Chapter 41: Pt.1

    Chapter 41: Pt.1


    The fan des of the vertical air conditioner swayed from side to side, blowing cool air onto Xu Chuanchuan''s face. However, Xu Chuanchuan could not feel any of the cooling sensation at all. After her mouth got sealed, she could only feel her blood rushing to her head and her face boiling.


    At this close distance, she couldn''t see the expression of the person in front of her. All of her body''s senses were also concentrated toward her sealed lips, and her body shuddered involuntarily.


    At this time, the hand ced on the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s head suddenly applied more force, causing the four lips to stick even closer to each other. For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if the air in her lungs had been sucked away, and theck of oxygen caused her to forget to think and resist momentarily.


    <em>Thud.</em>


    The unopened can of beer fell out of her hand, the noise instantly pulling Xu Chuanchuan back to reality. Immediately, her eyes widened, and she pushed the person in front of her away. Then, her body copsed into the sofa behind her, and she started gasping for air like a fish out of water.


    Meanwhile, as if failing to react to the situation, Murong Shi''s eyes carried hints of confusion. When she saw Xu Chuanchuan cowering in the corner of the sofa with a frightened expression, she opened her mouth and said, "I"


    However, before Murong Shi could say anything, Xu Chuanchuan jumped out of the sofa and fled from the living room.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart was beating furiously, and her face had turned bright red. Fortunately, she still had control over her legs, so she quickly dashed back into her room, closed the door with a bang, locked the door, and weakly copsed to the ground.


    <em>What the hell just happened?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head from side to side, taking several minutes to ept the fact that someone had just stolen her first kiss.


    Another woman had stolen her first kiss


    What was even more frightening was that this woman was Murong Shi


    When Xu Chuanchuan realized this fact, her head buzzed incessantly, and she wished she could lose consciousness on the spot.


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head frantically, deluding herself into thinking that she must''ve drunk too much alcohol and what had happened just now was nothing but a dream.


    Yet, if it was a dream, why did everything feel so real?


    Previously, she could smell the scent of alcohol and instant noodles. Mixed among these scenes was also the air freshener from the air conditioner. But, most importantly, there was residue saliva from two different people remaining on her lips


    "Ahhh" Xu Chuanchuan cried out hysterically from the bottom of her heart.


    At this moment, Xu Chuanchuan felt that if not herself, then it must be Murong Shi who had gone crazy.


    They were just drinking beer, so how did such an ident happen?


    <em>No, it didn''t seem like an ident. Murong Shi was the one who hooked my head toward hers at the time. Before I pushed her away, I also sensed her cold fingers touching my face.</em>


    <em>Murong Shi should''ve been trying to hold my face.</em>


    <em>So, Murong Shi wanted to kiss me</em>


    <em>But why? Doesn''t she have a boyfriend? Doesn''t she like men? Even if she started hallucinating after drinking too much, there''s no way she can mistake me for a man, right?</em>


    <em>After inwardly agonizing for some time, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly realized that Murong Shi was still outside.</em>


    <em>What should I do?</em>


    Although Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi had forcibly kissed her, she dared not confront the other party. She also dared not rush out and ask, "Why did you kiss me?"


    The alcohol Xu Chuanchuan drank before gradually took effect, and she started feeling dizzy. She then mentallyforted herself, <em>It must be because of the alcohol. Murong Shi was in a bad mood, so she just drank a little too much. She probably didn''t know what she was doing, either</em>


    <em>Yes, that''s right.</em>


    After taking several deep breaths and regaining her calm, Xu Chuanchuan gently opened a crack in the door.


    A tall figure suddenly moved past her sight. Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see the expression on Murong Shi''s face because of thetter''s long and dense hair, she did notice the other party''s two thin, red lips.


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled that Murong Shi had just pressed those lips against her own just a moment agoher face started heating up again. Then, unable to keep her calm, she closed the door again with a bang.


    As Xu Chuanchuan sat by the door, she could hear the sounds of metal nkinging from outside. Then, while she wondered what Murong Shi was doing, she heard the sound of high heels clicking against the floor.


    Sticking an ear against the door, Xu Chuanchuan listened to the arrhythmic footsteps. Then, her heartbeat inadvertently elerated.


    The next moment, Xu Chuanchuan''s worst fears came true as the sound of the footsteps became clearer and clearer. It sounded as if Murong Shi was making her way to her room. However, as if Murong Shi was hesitating over something, her footsteps sounded very slow.


    Every second that ticked by felt like an eternity for Xu Chuanchuan. Finally, in her panic, she pushed against the doorknob''s button, locking the door. She then distanced herself from the door.


    The footsteps outside suddenly stopped, and Xu Chuanchuan held her breath.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought Murong Shi would knock on the door or say something to her. However, even after waiting for a long time, she did not hear any movement outside.


    With a door separating them, neither of them could see each other. When Xu Chuanchuan heard her heart going "thump, thump, thump," she inwardly cursed at herself for being so cowardly.


    <em>I was the one who got taken advantage of. I didn''t do anything wrong. So, why should I hide?</em>


    After thinking things through, Xu Chuanchuan gained more confidence and bravely walked back to the door.


    However, when she ced her hand on the doorknob, the sound of footsteps came through the door again. Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan shrank back once more.


    Unlike before, though, the footsteps this time grew more distant as time passed until they eventually disappeared.


    Xu Chuanchuan rubbed her face. Sensing that it was no longer scalding hot, she finally made up her mind and opened the door.


    However, the living room outside was void of people.


    The beer cans on the coffee table had disappeared, and even the unopened can that fell to the ground just now was nowhere in sight. Likewise, the garbage in the trash can was also gone.


    The air conditioner was turned off. If not for the residual smell of air freshener and alcohol lingering in the air, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve even thought that Murong Shi had never visited this ce.


    Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded as she looked at the clean living room. She then looked towards the tightly shut front door.


    <em>After kissing me, she just left without saying anything?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan ended up losing sleep.


    In the past, the times when she had insomnia were when she had an exam to take, when she was out job hunting, and when she had writer''s block. This time, however, she suffered insomnia because of a woman.


    Yet, no matter how hard Xu Chuanchuan tried, she couldn''t stop herself from thinking about that incident. Whenever she closed her eyes, thoughts of Murong Shi and the unexpected kiss they shared would fill her mind.


    Had Murong Shi exined herself and apologized to her, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve unconditionally forgiven her. However, Murong Shi had left without saying a word. This left Xu Chuanchuan feeling extremely depressed.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan thought this incident would anger her. Yet, strangely enough, she wasn''t.


    In addition, she also discovered something bizarre.


    Whenever she carefully thought back to the incident, apart from feeling shocked and panicked, she didn''t feel the slightest bit of disgust.


    Xu Chuanchuan was someone who proimed herself to be straight. Yet, she didn''t feel disgusted when another woman kissed her. On the contrary, she feltfortable when Murong Shi''s cooling, fragrant lips pressed onto hers, she felt veryfortable


    Murong Shi''s lips reminded Xu Chuanchuan of the sweet and slippery jelly she had when she was a child, and she couldn''t help but want to lick them and bite them


    "Ahhh" Nobody was outside, so Xu Chuanchuan thoroughly let herself go as she buried her face into the pillow and screamed.


    Apart from losing sleep, Xu Chuanchuan had suffered one other side effect from being forcibly kissed, and this was a much more frightening side effect than insomnia.


    She experienced a wet dream.


    The main characters of the dream were Xu Chuanchuan herself and Murong Shi. In the dream, Murong Shi had her pinned down on a sofa while carefully running a hand through her hair. Then, Murong Shi held up her head and gently kissed her.


    Despite how beautiful the scene looked, because the other party was Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan felt that this wet dream was no different than a nightmare.


    When Xu Chuanchuan woke up, she realized that it was already light outside. After hurriedly climbing out of bed, washing up, and changing into a new set of clothes, she left the dorm with her phone and handbag in tow.


    <em>I don''t like women, so why would I have that kind of dream?!</em>


    <em>It must be because I''ve been single for too long! Yes! It must be because of my hormones acting up!</em>


    Afraid that she would start imagining things again, Xu Chuanchuan dared not stay in her room. Instead, after making her way to her little sister''s school, she forcibly dragged Xu Xiangxiang to go shopping with her.


    Seeing her elder sister''s strange behavior, Xu Xiangxiang decided to capitalize on the situation and bargained, "You have to pay for the things I buy. Otherwise, I won''t go."


    "Fine, fine, fine. Hurry up and change your clothes."


    Confused, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Why are you so generous today?"


    ring at her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "When have I ever been stingy?"


    "You''ve always been stingy. Whenever you say you''ll buy clothes for me, you always buy me the cheap stuff."


    "That''s called being frugal."


    "Tch."


    In the supermarket.


    Xu Xiangxiang pointed at a pair of heels and asked, "Does this pair look good?"


    Xu Chuanchuan then perfunctorily said, "I won''t know until you put them on."


    After Xu Xiangxiang tried on the heels and looked at herself in the mirror, she muttered to herself, "Hah My legs are too short. My calf muscles stick out like a sore thumb. Sure enough, not everyone can manage such high heels."


    "Change to a shorter pair, then. You''ll fall to your death if you wear such tall heels."


    Her eyes still glued to her short legs, Xu Xiangxiangmented, "Why doesn''t Big Sis Shishi expose any muscles when wearing such high heels? Her legs are so enviable. They''re long and straight, and they also have a fair skin tone."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her scalp go numb when she heard Murong Shi''s name. Then, dragging Xu Xiangxiang to a seat, she removed the pair of heels and said, "Let''s not buy it. You''re still young. What are you wearing heels for? Let''s go look at another shop."


    While trying to keep up with Xu Chuanchuan, Xu Xiangxiangined, "Stop walking so quickly! Shopping needs to be done slowly!"


    After dragging Xu Xiangxiang out of the heels section, Xu Chuanchuan released her little sister''s hand and said, "That ce sells clothes. Go and pick an expensive one. I''ll pay."


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes sparkled at these words. "Really?"


    "Mhm."


    "Let''s go, let''s go, let''s go!"


    At the prospect of owning a beautiful dress, Xu Xiangxiang instantly forgot about all thoughts of buying a pair of heels.


    Subsequently, the two sisters spent two hours trying on clothes in the store. Finally, after mentally struggling for some time, Xu Xiangxiang settled with a dress she liked most. Xu Chuanchuan then paid for the dress.


    "I''m out of lipstick. I have to buy a new one."


    Looking at her little sister''s red and supple lips, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You look fine the way you are."


    "No, I want one." In a delighted tone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "After buying a new phone, I still have around 3,000 leftover from the 10,000 yuan. I can buy an expensive one."


    Rolling her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Suit yourself."


    When they arrived at the cosmetic area, and Xu Xiangxiang saw the rows of lipsticks, she couldn''t decide which brand she wanted. She then asked, "Sis, do you know what brand of lipstick Big Sis Shishi uses? The one she usedst time looked very nice."


    While being hounded by a promoter, Xu Chuanchuan red at Xu Xiangxiang and said, "I''m warning you; don''t mention this name in front of me in the future."


    "Why? Did Big Sis Shishi anger you?"


    <em>She did exactly that.</em>


    As Xu Xiangxiang kept mentioning Murong Shi''s name, Xu Chuanchuan could no longer take it and decided to end their shopping session.


    After sending Xu Xiangxiang back to school, Xu Chuanchuan returned to her dorm. However, when she entered the empty living room and saw the sofa there, she suddenly fell into a daze.


    When Ange saw Xu Chuanchuan finally logging into QQ, she asked, "What were you doing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I went shopping with my little sister just now."


    Ange: "It''s three o''clock. Do you want to write together?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No."


    Ange: "Writer''s block?"


    <em>It would be great if it were only writer''s block.</em>


    In the past, whenever Xu Chuanchuan was troubled by something, Ange would be the first person she thought of to ask for help. Although Ange was the same age as herself, she possessed a much more stable and mature mind. Therefore, she would feel liberated whenever she finished talking to Ange about her troubles. However, this time, she found herself incapable of speaking about her problem.


    Xu Chuanchuan truly couldn''t bring herself to say something like, "I got forcibly kissed by my boss''s daughterst night. What should I do?" She was afraid that she would hear something she didn''t wish to hear from Ange.


    As to what she was afraid of, even Xu Chuanchuan herself couldn''t figure it out.

 Chapter 41: Pt.2

    Chapter 41: Pt.2


    Meanwhile, inside the Murong family''s house


    Fang Qin knocked on the door of Murong Shi''s room.


    Half a minuteter, Murong Shi, in her pajamas, opened the door. Yawning, she greeted, "Morning."


    Fang Qin was momentarily rendered speechless. "Are you living in America? It''s almost dinner time now, alright?"


    Rubbing her eyes, Murong Shi said, "It''s sote already?"


    The next moment, Fang Qin tried to sweep away the hair blocking Murong Shi''s face. Noticing the action, Murong Shi grew alert and stoped her friend''s hand. "What are you doing?"


    Staring at Murong Shi''s face, Fang Qin asked, "Why is half your face swollen?"


    "I drank too much water."


    Retracting her hand, Fang Qin heedlessly said, "You got hit by your father, right?"


    A gleam briefly shed by Murong Shi''s eyes, but she did not reply to Fang Qin''s words.


    Sighing, Fang Qin said, "Aunt Lian saw you running out of the housest night."


    Surprised, Murong Shi asked, "Then, my mom"


    "Your mother shouldn''t know about it since she was already asleep at the time. I don''t think Aunt Lian will tell her about it, either."


    Murong Shi fell silent.


    "Also, don''t turn off your phone next time. Your dad got so worried that he didn''t sleep the entire night."


    Putting on a contemptuous smile, Murong Shi said, "I''m not <em>that </em>important in his eyes."


    "Nonsense. You''re his only daughter."


    "You are also the only child of your family, yet didn''t your parents still sever all rtions with you?"


    "..." Fang Qin winced in pain at having her dark past brought up. "Can we not stab at each other? Aunt Lian said you stank of alcohol when you came back. Where did you gost night?"


    Upon hearing Fang Qin''s question, Murong Shi suddenly recalled the absurd kiss she hadst night, and she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    Poking her friend in the forehead, Fang Qin asked, "I''m asking you a question."


    Retracting her emotions, Murong Shi avoided Fang Qin''s question and said, "I''m going to sleep a little longer. Call me when it''s dinner time."


    When it was time for dinner, Sun An returned. Murong Shi immediately left the dining room as soon as she saw him.


    Stopping her, Sun An said, "Little Shi, I''m sorry. Dad drank too muchst night. Please forgive me."


    However, Murong Shi turned her head away from him.


    Seeing this scene, Murong Mingshu asked, "What''s going on?"


    If Murong Mingshu found out that Sun An had beaten their daughter, dinner would probably have to be canceled. Hence, Murong Shi did her best to convince herself not to care about yesterday''s incident. Then, putting on a normal expression, she said, "It''s nothing. Let''s eat."


    After dinner, Sun An wanted to talk to her, but Murong Shi refused him. Then, to avoid her father, Murong Shi hid into Fang Qin''s room and found her friend fiddling with another parcel.


    "What did you buy again?"


    "I didn''t buy anything. It''s a return parcel."


    "What return parcel?"


    "Didn''t that author give me booksst time? So, I made some choctes and sent them to her. But that author had already moved when the courier got to her address. When the courier called the author and asked for her new address, she refused to say it. She rejected my present."


    Murong Shi sent the parcel a nce. When she saw the words "Xu XX" on the shippingbel, her heart thumped.


    Pretending to be calm, she said, "If she returned it, so be it. Since the other party doesn''t want it, stop insisting on it."


    Knitting her brows, Fang Qin said, "But I can''t get over it. The six books plus shipping should cost a lot of money. The author is living in the same area as us. Do you think she would still refuse my gift if I deliver it in person?"


    "She definitely won''t ept it, so stop wasting your energy."


    "How would you know?"


    "Did she tell you her new address?"


    Shrugging, Fang Qin said, "She probably refused to say it before because of the courier. Why don''t I give her a call now?"


    Murong Shi''s expression changed upon hearing Fang Qin''s words, and she immediately held down her friend''s hand.


    "What are you doing?" Fang Qin looked at Murong Shi strangely.


    "Don''t call her. She really won''t ept it."


    "How would I know if I don''t try?" Fang Qin said as she shook off Murong Shi''s hand.


    Anxiously, Murong Shi said, "I tried before."


    "What? You gave her something before?"


    Wearing an unnatural look on her face, Murong Shi cleared her throat and said, "Like you, she gifted me books as well. I wanted to give her something back, but she refused no matter what."


    "That must be because youck sincerity."


    "She said something to me that changed my mind."


    "What did she say?"


    "This author likes to dramatize things. If you give her something, she''ll think you''re trying to woo her."


    Surprised, Fang Qin asked, "For real?"


    "Do you think I''m the type to take things for granted?"


    Looking at Murong Shi''s face, Fang Qin was eventually convinced as she said, "Alright, then. I won''t send a gift, either."


    Murong Shi sighed in relief at her friend''s reply. Then, she said, "I can help return this favor on your behalf."


    Puzzled, Fang Qin asked, "How are you going to do that?"


    "I''m following her work. I''ll just send her a few Deep-water Torpedoester on."


    "What torpedo?"


    "It''s a donation system used by the publisher''s tform. She''ll receive a portion of the donated amount.


    Understanding what Murong Shi meant, Fang Qin said, "Alright, you thank her on behalf, then."


    Nodding, Murong Shi added, "You should also stop looking for her in private."


    "And why is that?"


    "You''re not closely acquainted with her. If you keep on bothering her, she''ll think you''re teasing her on purpose."


    Blinking rapidly, Fang Qin said, "...What a strange author."


    Murong Shi did not deny her friend''s words. She then pointed at the parcel and said, "You might as well let me eat those."


    "I haven''t even tasted them myself," Fang Qin said as she swiftly opened up the parcel and pulled out a bar of chocte. After breaking it in half and giving one half to Murong Shi, she took a bite out of the remaining half. Then, narrowing her eyes, Fang Qin said, "Delicious. I''m so talented."


    Afterward, Murong Shi silently tore the shippingbel from the parcel.


    At this time, Fang Qin suddenly leaned in closer and asked, "So, are you trying to woo her or not?"


    Lowering her gaze, Murong Shi said, "No way."


    Xu Chuanchuan sneezed a few times, and she couldn''t help but wonder if it was because she didn''t sleep wellst night. Now, even her nose felt a little stuffy.


    <em>If I fall sick at this time, can I take some time off from work?</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan thought about facing Murong Shi tomorrow, she couldn''t help but crumble mentally. It had been two days since that incident. Murong Shi had yet to seek her out, give her an exnation, or apologize to her. Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she had just been toyed.


    Was she mad about the incident? If Xu Chuanchuan were to be honest, not really. She just felt a little aggravated.


    Normally, what Xu Chuanchuan liked doing the most was interacting with her viewers. Now, however, she couldn''t find any motivation to do so.


    That kiss appeared to be poisonous as she still hadn''t gotten over it after two days had gone by.


    <em>No, I mustn''t think about it. I need to find something to distract myself.</em>


    Her reader group was currently in a lively state, so Xu Chuanchuan decided to visit it. Unfortunately, as soon as she entered the group chat, she immediately saw a name she didn''t wish to see.


    Heavens, Tycoon Shi, I''m starting to wonder if your money really does grow on trees.


    Darling Shi, you''re acting whimsically again. Lord will probably be smiling herself to sleep with these five Deep-waters.


    Lord, did you not see the Deep-waters Darling Shi gave you? It''s already been two days since you replied to anyments. @I Love Mtang


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw the word "Shi," she would inadvertently think about a certain someone. And when she thought about that certain someone, she would think about that kiss they shared. Then, she would start growing annoyed again.


    <em>Lla, I can''t see anything.</em> Xu Chuanchuan tossed her phone aside.


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan did not sumb to the demon of illness. The next day, her nose no longer felt stuffy. Apart from her low spirits, everything else was normal.


    While sitting in the office, she constantly fidgeted in her seat as she stared idly at herputer. Then, when her eyes inadvertently swept over thendline phone, her heart tightened, and she had the urge to unplug the phone line.


    <em>What should I do if Murong Shi calls me overter?</em>


    "Little Xu."


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly heard her department chief''s voice. Snapping out of her daze, she turned around and asked, "Yes?"


    Then, the department chief said, "Miss Murong says her side no longer needs your help."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned.


    This should''ve been good news, yet Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to be happy over it at all.


    <em>Why doesn''t she need me anymore? Is it because she doesn''t want to see me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt a little frustrated, her heart sinking bit by bit. At the same time, an unspeakable emotion flooded her heart.


    <em>On what basis does she get to call for me and dismiss me whenever she wants? I can ept getting reallocated if it was for work-rted reasons, but Murong Shi is obviously doing this because of </em>that <em>incident!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had trouble eating and sleeping for the past two days because thoughts regarding that incident filled her head constantly. Yet, Murong Shi had cruelly and casually shooed her off with just a few words.


    Xu Chuanchuan was angry.


    Setting her current task aside, Xu Chuanchuan snuck away from the Engineering Department''s office while no one paid attention. Then, she went looking for Murong Shi.


    "Come in."


    Xu Chuanchuan started growing afraid again when she heard the familiar indifferent voice.


    <em>I can''t retreat. Otherwise, there won''t be an end to this matter.</em>


    Opening the door, Xu Chuanchuan walked into the office.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw that Murong Shi was alone in the office, she locked the door behind her.


    Murong Shi shifted her gaze away from herputer when she heard the sound of the door being locked. When she saw who hade in, she frowned and tly asked, "Did your department chief not tell you? I don''t need you here anymore."


    Xu Chuanchuan tensed up at Murong Shi''s words. Then, she slowly turned around to look at Murong Shi but dared not move any closer to the other party.


    After struggling to swallow the saliva in her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I...have a question to ask you."


    "What is it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s anger vanished when she saw Murong Shi''s nonchnt behavior. Instead, recing her anger was shame and aggravation.


    She started regretting her actions now.


    <em>Why must I confront Murong Shi? Couldn''t I have just pretended as if nothing had happened? </em>Xu Chuanchuan fell into a dilemma. She didn''t know whether she should proceed or retreat in this situation. She also felt like an idiot when subjected to Murong Shi''s calm gaze.


    Yet, Xu Chuanchuan was also reluctant to walk away from this situation.


    That was a kiss on her lips, after all. One should only share a kiss with the person one liked. One shouldn''t treat kissing as a joke.


    With heavy steps, Xu Chuanchuan walked up to Murong Shi and stopped in front of her desk. However, despite having resolved herself mentally, her mouth refused toply.


    Murong Shi did not urge Xu Chuanchuan, either. Instead, she grabbed the nearby mug and slowly took a sip of water.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze inadvertently followed Murong Shi''s actions. When her line of sight came into contact with Murong Shi''s moistened lips, she felt her face heating up, and even her breathing becamebored.


    Hurriedly, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi calmly looked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I''m very busy right now, so please don''t take too long."


    <em>I''ve already reached this point, so what am I still afraid of?</em> Xu Chuanchuan shut her eyes for a moment. Then, she forced herself to look at Murong Shi as she asked in a trembling tone, "I just wish to know Why did you kiss me that night?"


    Murong Shi did not seem to be surprised at all by this question. cing the mug down, she deliberately swept her gaze across Xu Chuanchuan''s lips and said, "I would''ve forgotten about it if you didn''t bring it up."


    Xu Chuanchuan gripped the edge of her shirt, not daring to make a sound.


    Murong Shi''s lips suddenly curled into a smile when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. Then, in a calm tone, she said, "I''m sorry. I drank too much that day. I hope you don''t mind."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body swayed slightly, a bizarre scene appearing in her mind


    In a TV drama series, a scumbag man woke up after a night of drunken sex. Then, he said to the woman beside him, "Sorry, I drank too muchst night. I don''t remember anything at all."


    Afterward, the woman had no choice but to ept her unlucky fate.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan did not sleep with anyone, she felt she had just suffered the same treatment as the poor woman in the drama.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi was none other than the irresponsible scumbag.


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had an urge to curse.

 Chapter 42: Pt.1

    Chapter 42: Pt.1


    When other people got angry, their faces would flush red. Xu Chuanchuan was the opposite. Rather than turning red, her face would turn white when she got mad. The corners of her mouth would tremble as well.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi''s nonchnt behavior, she indeed had the urge to curse. However, as nobody had ever taught her the skills for this, she could only open and close her mouth repeatedly like a fish, unable to say even one harsh word.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan clenched her teeth and red at Murong Shi.


    However, Murong Shi remained unfazed.


    In Murong Shi''s opinion, Xu Chuanchuan was like a rabbit driven into a corner. Although this rabbit wished to bite the enemy cornering her, she was too weak. Her gaze did not look frightening, and her voice did not sound threatening. Rather than threatening others, her pathetic look only made others feel pity for her.


    "Why don''t you have a seat first?"


    <em>How can this person be so calm? </em>Taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan kept her gaze on Murong Shi. Then, in a trembling voice, she demanded, "How can you be like this?"


    Stunned, Murong Shi asked, "Be like what?"


    Stamping her feet, Xu Chuanchuan said in vexation, "You weren''t even drunk that day!"


    "How do you know I wasn''t drunk?" Murong Shi asked teasingly.


    <em>How can a drunk person be as energetic as you were?!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan found herself unable to speak momentarily. After calming down, she said in a low tone, "Regardless of whether you were drunk or not, that doesn''t give you the right to mess around."


    Murong Shi silently pushed the mug a little further away from herself. Then, she said, "I already apologized to you for that."


    "Who smiles when apologizing? You weren''t sincere at all," Xu Chuanchuan said in chagrin.


    As if thinking about something, Murong Shi quietly stared at Xu Chuanchuan for several seconds. Then, she suddenly stood up.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew alert at this sight. However, what happened next left her dumbfounded.


    Retracting the mirth on her face, Murong Shi suddenly executed a standard ny-degree bow and solemnly said, "I''m sorry."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "I shouldn''t have asked to drink with you. I also shouldn''t have taken advantage of you after eating your food. I''m deeply sorry for my actions. Please forgive me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Do you think this is sincere enough?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had already gotten used to Murong Shi''s powerful and imposing appearance. However, this was the first time she had seen the other party being so submissive, and she was so surprised that she didn''t know how to react.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan chose to stomach her grievances and forgive Murong Shi. Then, after muttering an "Excuse me," she turned around to leave. After all, now that Murong Shi had gone to such an extent, what else could she say?


    "Wait." Murong Shi stopped Xu Chuanchuan. "Since you''re already here, let me make it clear once and for all."


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Make what clear?"


    Murong Shi circled her desk and approached Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan instinctively thought to back away when she saw this, but she suddenly felt that doing so would only make her look weak. So, she straightened her back and stood her ground.


    Murong Shi wanted tough when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s actions. However, when she moved closer to Xu Chuanchuan, she noticed that thetter''s eyes had reddened slightly. They also appeared faintly watery. Stunned by this discovery, Murong Shi asked, "You''re...crying?"


    Looking away, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not."


    When Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s pale lips, she hesitated to speak.


    Murong Shi honestly didn''t know what had been going on with herself that night. She had originally been in a bad mood already. To make matters worse, Xu Chuanchuan had been incessantly yapping away beside her. So, when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s small mouth opening and closing repeatedly, she lost control of herself momentarily.


    The moment Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan running away, she immediately regretted her actions and thought that she should say something. However, no matter how long she waited, Xu Chuanchuan did note out of her room.


    Initially, Murong Shi thought that if the two of them set that matter aside and did not bring it up, it would just go away eventually. However, never did she expect Xu Chuanchuan toe to her and confront her about the matter. Fortunately, although Murong Shi also felt embarrassed to have that incident brought up again, she was much better at hiding her embarrassment than Xu Chuanchuan.


    Looking down, Murong Shi took notice of Xu Chuanchuan''s legs. Currently, the other party had her toes taut. Whether Xu Chuanchuan was doing so out of anger or anxiety, Murong Shi did not know. Then, Murong Shi moved her gaze upward and noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s tightly clenched fists hanging at her sides.


    Taking a step forward, Murong Shi asked softly, "Are you <em>that </em>aggrieved?"


    Xu Chuanchuan looked up. Then, blinking her eyes, she said, "Will you not feel aggrieved if someone suddenly forces a kiss on you?"


    After pondering in silence for a moment, Murong Shi said, "That depends on who the other party is."


    "What What do you mean?"


    "It''s nothing. Don''t think too much about it."


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head in shame.


    Letting out an inaudible sigh, Murong Shi said, "I thought you wouldn''t care."


    With a look of consternation on her face, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "On what basis?"


    "Do you really want me to say it?"


    "G-Go on" Xu Chuanchuan said, her voice starting to tremble again.


    Murong Shi fixed her gaze on Xu Chuanchuan''s lips. Then, after sorting out the words in her mind, she said, "Although I took the initiative at the time, based on your reaction, it didn''t seem like you hated it at all."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned beet red. Then, taking a step back, she denied, "Nonsense!"


    "If you hated it, you wouldn''t have stuck your tongue out."


    <em>Boom.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt as if something had just exploded in front of her as her mind went nk. Then, she stammered, "T-That''s because That''s because you stuck yours out first!"


    After saying that, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wish she could die of shame and anger on the spot.


    <em>Heavens! Can someone save my intelligence?! What the hell did I just say?!</em>


    Sporting an ambiguous smile, Murong Shi said, "If you think that you suffered a loss, I''ll give you a chance to kiss me back as well."


    "What did you say?" For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but doubt if her ears were working properly.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi moving her face closer, she couldn''t help but be stunned. When she finally realized what Murong Shi meant, she fled.


    "Ah! Who is it?!"


    When Xu Chuanchuan rushed out of the door, she crashed into the Business Department''s assistant, who hade to find Murong Shi.


    "Sorry, sorry," Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly apologized before fleeing the area.


    After returning to her desk in the Engineering Department, Xu Chuanchuan could not calm her rapidly beating heart for a long time. Her face also looked as red as a tomato. When her colleagues asked her about her face, she randomly lied, "It''s too hot."


    Even though Xu Chuanchuan still had a lot of work that needed to be done, she couldn''t calm down no matter what. Never in her life did she feel so much regret at doing something. Thinking back to how she acted in Murong Shi''s office, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she had been incredibly foolish. She had gone to confront Murong Shi and seek an exnation, yet she ended up getting teased by Murong Shi instead. Her exit from the office was even a disgraceful escape


    <em>Should I just resign?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt incredibly aggrieved. After getting off work in the evening, she went straight back to her dormitory without having dinner first. Then, she threw herself onto the bed and messaged Ange.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m going to resign."


    Ange: "Again?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m serious this time."


    Ange: "Why? Don''t tell me it''s because of your boss''s daughter again? What did she do to you this time?"


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    <em>Must you be such a good fortune-teller?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan: "She bullied me."


    Ange: "How did she bully you? Did she ask you to write her another bootlicking essay?"


    <em>It''s something much worse</em>


    <em>Forget it. I better not say it. Something </em>this <em>embarrassing should be kept hidden forever.</em>


    It had already been a few days since Xu Chuanchuan had written anything. When she suddenly recalled that she had ignored her novel''sment section for several days now, she quickly opened up her jjwxc application. Then, when she saw the words of support and encouragement her readers had left for her, her heart finally received somefort.


    While browsing through thement section, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly came across a familiar ID. And when she saw a certain word in this ID, her mood turned sour again.


    Two days ago, Passerby Shi had given her five Deep-water Torpedoes apanied with ament saying: "I''m thanking you on behalf of a friend."


    Confused by this message, Xu Chuanchuan took a screenshot of it and switched to her QQ messenger. She then tapped on a certain someone''s avatar.


    I Love Mtang: "What do you mean by this? [Image]"


    Roughly an hourter, Passerby Shi replied: "My friend read your book and liked it a lot. But she doesn''t have a reader ount, so she asked me to send you a few Deep-waters on her behalf."


    I Love Mtang: "Oh."


    Passerby Shi: "They said you were in a bad mood for the past few days."


    I Love Mtang: "Who said so?"


    Passerby Shi: "The girls in the group. They say you haven''t shown yourself for two days now. Everyone''s making all sorts of guesses on the reason. Are you alright?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised that this tsundere tycoon would be concerned about her. But, of course, she couldn''t tell the other party the truth, so she replied: "Thank you, but I''m fine. I''m just feeling a little depressed because I''ve been suffering writer''s block these past few days."


    Passerby Shi: "Lacking inspiration?"


    I Love Mtang: "Something like that. But I feel motivated after seeing your five Deep-waters, so I''ll start writing in a moment."


    Passerby Shi: "Good luck."


    When Xu Chuanchuan browsed thement section and saw the donation, she inwardly eximed at how wealthy this capricious tycoon was while simultaneously thinking to herself, <em>Both of them have "Shi" in their names, yet why is there such a vast difference between their personalities?</em>


    For the first time, Xu Chuanchuan found that Passerby Shi had quite a cute personality.

 Chapter 42: Pt.2

    Chapter 42: Pt.2


    Murong Shi had be Xu Chuanchuan''s nightmare.


    To prove that she wasn''t a coward, Xu Chuanchuan eventually chose not to resign. However, in the following days, whenever Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi''s figure or heard Murong Shi''s voice, she would immediately hide.


    Originally, Xu Chuanchuan thought she wouldn''t have any more encounters with Murong Shi. That was until Xu Xiangxiang''s birthday arrived.


    Xu Xiangxiang was celebrating her neenth birthday this year. After getting off work, Xu Chuanchuan immediately gave her little sister a call, "Where are you guys? Why is it so loud?"


    "Sis, get over here quickly! It''s so lively here!"


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan received an address from Xu Xiangxiang.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked up the address and found that it was a bar, she called Xu Xiangxiang''s number again and asked, "Why did you guys go to such a ce?"


    "It''s a pub. My ssmate rmended it to me. It has a good environment, delicious drinks, and handsome men singing. Are youing or not? If not, we''ll be heading over ourselves."


    There was no way Xu Chuanchuan could let her little sister visit such a ce without a chaperone. Immediately, she hailed a taxi and made her way to the pub. On her way, she also stopped at a bakery and bought a cake.


    When Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the pub, she found that her little sister was telling the truth. The pub''s environment was good, and it was renovated to have a Japanese style. Overall, it looked fresh and elegant.


    There were no disco lights or groups of people dancing. Although there were many guests in the establishment, most of them were sitting in their respective seats while chatting and drinking with their friends. Few of these guests behaved as wildly as Xu Xiangxiang and her three roommates, who were standing on their chairs while cheering and screaming at the band performing on stage.


    The pub owner was a bespectacled, middle-aged man. When Xu Chuanchuan entered the store, he immediately noticed the cake in her hand and asked, "Are you here to celebrate a birthday?"


    "Yes."


    "It''s your first time here, right?"


    "Mhm." Xu Chuanchuan responded with a nod and smile.


    If she could ignore the deranged screaming, Xu Chuanchuan felt that the atmosphere in this ce was quite good. Then, she walked up to Xu Xiangxiang and dragged her little sister off the chair. "Can you be more reserved?"


    However, Xu Xiangxiang was so excited that she behaved no different than a madwoman. Hugging her elder sister, she said, "What took you so long?"


    Pushing her little sister away in frustration, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I wanted toe earlier, but there''s nothing I can do about the traffic."


    Compared to the exuberant Xu Xiangxiang, her three roommates were much more docile and quiet. They looked at Xu Chuanchuan with smiles on their faces and greeted her in unison, "Big Sis Chuanchuan."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw that each of them held a bottle of beer in their hands, she asked, "Have you eaten dinner yet?"


    "No, not yet," one of the girls answered.


    "Why don''t you order something to eat? You''ll get drunk easily if you drink on an empty stomach."


    "Okay, okay."


    The food sold here wasn''t cheap at all. When Xu Xiangxiang saw her three roommates reading the menu, she reminded them, "Don''t order anything too expensive. My sister is stingy."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression froze. Then, she smiled at Xu Xiangxiang''s dumbfounded roommates and said, "Don''t listen to her nonsense. Order whatever you want. I''ll pay for it."


    Hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Xu Xiangxiang immediately hugged her elder sister again and said, "Sis, I love you!"


    Xu Chuanchuan rolled her eyes at her little sister''s affection.


    "Where''s my present?" Xu Xiangxiang asked with an extended hand.


    Swatting Xu Xiangxiang''s hand away, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll give it to youter."


    Xu Xiangxiang didn''t mind the dy of her present. In no time at all, her attention returned to the five handsome men singing on the stage.


    Initially, the band had been singing folk songs. However, after finishing another song, the music in the pub stopped. Then, the lead singer epted a piece of paper from someone standing beside the stage, and using his low and husky voice, he read what was written on the paper, "Today is the neenth birthday of the lovely Miss Xu Xiangxiang. Here, we wish her a happy birthday and hope that she gets prettier and prettier, remains happy every day, and never fails another subject!"


    When the lead singer finished speaking, the familiar rhythm of the "Happy Birthday" song rang out. Then, the lead singer pointed at Xu Xiangxiang''s table and began singing along with the rhythm. The other band members also hummed along with the song.


    "Happy birthday!" a random guest shouted.


    Afterward, several more guests congratted Xu Xiangxiang as well.


    However, Xu Xiangxiang, the birthday girl, was stunned by this situation. Looking at Xu Chuanchuan in surprise, she asked, "Sis, did you prepare this for me?"


    "Happy birthday, silly girl," Xu Chuanchuan said as she tugged at Xu Xiangxiang''s cheeks.


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes grew moist. Then, she jumped into Xu Chuanchuan''s arms, choking a little as she said, "Thank you, Sis.''


    Patting her little sister''s shoulder, Xu Chuanchuan said, "So many people have wished you a happy birthday. Shouldn''t you say something in return?"


    After struggling out of Xu Chuanchuan''s embrace, Xu Xiangxiang wiped her tears and put on a smile. Then, she waved at the guests, who had congratted her, and said, "Thank you! I hope you all have a fun time!"


    "Wait, there''s still cake."


    After heading to the counter to retrieve the cake she left there, Xu Chuanchuan quickly lit neen candles with the pub owner''s help. Then, she carefully carried the candle over to the table.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s timing was just right. As soon as she arrived, the band had also finished singing the birthday song.


    When Xu Xiangxiang blew out the candles, she cried once more.


    In reality, the idea of having the band sing the birthday song was the pub owner''s idea. When Xu Chuanchuan first heard the owner''s suggestion, she wondered why this pub would have such excellent services. However, after listening to the rest of the owner''s words, she finally realized that all businessmen were evil.


    While smiling, the pub owner said to her, "It''s not expensive to order a song; just 200 yuan. I guarantee you''ll be satisfied."


    The corner of Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth twitched when she heard this.


    If it were under normal circumstances, Xu Chuanchuan definitely would''ve refused such a fraudulent deal. However, when she thought about how today was her little sister''s birthday, she decided that it wouldn''t be a bad idea to splurge some money to create a surprise.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Xu Xiangxiang ruining her makeup with her tears, she couldn''t help but chuckle and teased her little sister, "You used to be so heartless, so why are you getting so emotional today?"


    Choking on her tears, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Sis, I won''t make you angry anymore from now on."


    "I can''t stand you. Hurry up and cut the cake. Your roommates are starving already. I''ll head to the washroom first," Xu Chuanchuan said. She had identally gotten some cream onto her hand when lighting the candles before.


    When Xu Chuanchuan stood up and turned around, she just so happened to have seen someone looking like Murong Shi entering the pub.


    For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan thought her eyes were hallucinating. However, as luck would have it, the other person had also looked in her direction at this time, her gaze sweeping past Xu Chuanchuan and stopping at the stage behind Xu Chuanchuan. This person then retracted her gaze and whispered to the person behind her.


    Xu Chuanchuan became dumbfounded.


    Xu Chuanchuan hadn''t been mistaken. That person was indeed Murong Shi. Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan also recognized the woman standing behind Murong Shi. The woman was someone who had visited theirpany previously, and Xu Chuanchuan had even made her a cup of coffee at the time.


    Seeing that Murong Shi had yet to notice her, Xu Chuanchuan quickly fled into the restroom. Xu Chuanchuan never thought she would meet Murong Shi here, and she started growing worried.


    <em>Maybe she just happened to be passing by?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan inwardly prayed. After she sat on the toilet for some time and her legs had started growing numb, her phone suddenly started ringing, startling her.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw that it was Xu Xiangxiang calling her, she knew that her little sister was calling to rush her.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan connected the call and ced the phone by her ear, she heard Xu Xiangxiang excitedly saying, "Sis, guess who I saw?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to guess it at the slightest.


    "It''s Big Sis Shishi! She also has a friend with her. What a coincidence, right?!"


    With a dead-pan face, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "Oh."


    Xu Xiangxiang failed toprehend her elder sister''s current mood through the short and powerful word. Instead, she continued speaking in excitement, "Hurry up ande out. Otherwise, we''re going to finish the cake without you."


    "Have they left?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in a whisper.


    "They? Are you talking about Big Sis Shishi and her friend? How could they have left? They just arrived," Xu Xiangxiang said as a matter of fact. "Big Sis Shishi, here, this one with a cherry is for you."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan started having mixed feelings about this situation.


    The pub was a rtively small ce. If Xu Chuanchuan left the restroom, it would be inevitable for her toe across Murong Shi. She could already imagine the scene of Murong Shi being pinned down and forced to eat cake by Xu Xiangxiang''s enthusiasm.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan resigned herself to fate and left the restroom.


    Even from afar, Xu Chuanchuan could already see Murong Shi and Xu Xiangxiang chatting merrily with each other. Then, biting the bullet, she made her way back to the table. To make matters worse, the seat Xu Xiangxiang and the others reserved for Xu Chuanchuan was incredibly awkward.


    After taking a seat beside Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan deliberately ignored Murong Shi and smiled at Fang Qin.


    Recognizing Xu Chuanchuan, Fang Qin said, "Ah, it''s you!"


    "Hello, Miss Fang."


    Blushing, Fang Qin said in embarrassment, "I''m sorry, I forgot what your name is"


    "It''s Xu Chuanchuan."


    "Oh, hello, hello. You two sisters have really interesting names," Fang Qin said,ughing merrily.


    Xu Chuanchuan alsoughed along with Fang Qin. However, when she sensed a scorching gaze staring at her, the smile on her face grew forced.


    Murong Shi was a person with a powerful presence, and Xu Chuanchuan had a hard time ignoring her even if she tried. Hence, albeit reluctantly, she greeted, "Miss Murong"


    Murong Shi replied with a faint "mhm" before stabbing her fork into a small slice of cake and putting the cake into her mouth. Then, she used her tongue to lick the bit of cream that she had identally got onto her lips.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw this scene, her face heated up, and she started behaving unnaturally again. Then, she hurriedly shifted her gaze away, forced herself to stay calm, and started eating the cake ced before her.


    Thanks to Xu Xiangxiang''s enthusiasm, Murong Shi and Fang Qin''s sudden arrival did not cause the atmosphere around the table to cool down at all. Extending her neck, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Big Sis Fang Qin, do you not like cake?"


    Then, Fang Qin replied, "It''s not that I don''t like it. It''s just that I want to drink today."


    "I''ll apany you, then!" Xu Xiangxiang said as she rolled up her sleeves and picked up a bottle of beer.


    "Are you old enough for that?"


    Patting her chest, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I just turned neen today."


    Hearing this, Fang Qin clinked bottles with Xu Xiangxiang and said, "Alright, let''s both drink."


    Oftentimes, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but admire Xu Xiangxiang''s ability to mingle with and befriend strangers in such a short time. While Xu Chuanchuan was looking at Xu Xiangxiang and Fang Qin clinking bottles, she suddenly heard Murong Shi saying, "Since you have someone to apany you, I won''t be drinking anymore."


    Frowning, Fang Qin asked, "Why are you here if you don''t drink?"


    However, Murong Shi remained unfazed as she said, "I''m driving."


    "Big Sis Fang Qin, I''ll drink with you! I''ll drink with you!" Xu Xiangxiang interjected.


    Thus, the two alcoholics clinked bottles yet again.


    While Xu Xiangxiang and Fang Qin were off to their own world, Xu Chuanchuan, who quietly ate her cake, snuck a nce at Murong Shi, thinking, <em>Why aren''t you two leaving yet?</em>


    So, Xu Chuanchuan gathered her courage and said to Murong Shi, "Our table is a little noisy"


    "It''s only fun if there''s a little noise!" Xu Xiangxiang interrupted, which earned herself a re from Xu Chuanchuan.


    "Xiangxiang is right," Fang Qin said in agreement. Then, after taking another gulp of beer, she sighed and said, "Who would want to be alone when you can have someone apany you?"


    Murong Shi gave Fang Qin a deep look upon hearing these words. She then turned her head and looked at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Noticing Murong Shi''s gaze, Xu Chuanchuan quickly lowered her head.


    "Big Sis Shishi, why don''t I switch ces with you?" Xu Xiangxiang suggested, finding it an inconvenience to drink with Fang Qin when two other people were seated between them.


    "Okay."


    As a result, Murong Shi had gone from sitting on Xu Chuanchuan''s left to Xu Chuanchuan''s right Unfortunately, this change in seating also caused Xu Chuanchuan to tense up the right side of her body.


    However, Murong Shi remained wholly unfazed throughout the entire time. She even started chatting with Xu Xiangxiang''s three roommates.


    In this situation, Xu Chuanchuan had be the odd one out at the table. The slice of cake she received was rtively small; she would probably be done with it in two minutes if she ate at her normal speed. So, she deliberately slowed down.


    Noticing that Xu Chuanchuan constantly had her head down, Xu Xiangxiang tapped her elder sister on the shoulder and asked, "Do you want to drink as well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head. Then, as she continued eating her cake in depression, she suddenly heard a low voiceing from her right, "Are you afraid of drinking too much and acting recklessly as well?"


    A warm breath blew against the sensitive skin behind Xu Chuanchuan''s ears, causing goosebumps to rise all over her body. By the time she tried to shift her body away, Murong Shi had already sat upright again, holding a fork between her long and slender fingers as she looked at her with a smile on her face.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew this was a provocation. Feeling a little annoyed, she said, "My alcohol tolerance is much better than a certain someone."


    Murong Shi continued smiling.


    Blood rushed to Xu Chuanchuan''s head when she saw this. Then, pping the table, she shouted, "Owner, alhocol!"


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Everyone else: "..."

 Chapter 43: Pt.1

    Chapter 43: Pt.1


    The band''s performance happened to be nearing its end when Xu Chuanchuan shouted and pped the table. As a result, everyone in the bar heard the noise she made and simultaneously turned to look at her.


    When Xu Chuanchuan sensed the many stares she received, she quickly realized how uncivilized her actions were just now. Despite being in such a ssy establishment, she had behaved as if she was an aunty buying vegetables at a market. Xu Chuanchuan felt utterly embarrassed of herself.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t the only person who felt embarrassed over her actions. Xu Xiangxiang also covered her face in shame and said, "Sis, I think you should avoiding to this ce next time."


    Xu Chuanchuan''splexion switched between white and blue. If not for Murong Shi sitting beside her, she would''ve long since backed down out of cowardice.


    Fortunately, a waiter had reacted to her yelling and came over to ask what kind of alcohol she would like.


    While secretly wiping the cold sweat on her forehead, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What''s the weakest drink you have?"


    "The fruit wine has the lowest alcohol content, followed by the cocktail," the waiter said.


    Xu Chuanchuan counted the number of people at the table and said, "Let''s start with seven cocktails first, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan opted not to avoid the fruit wine to avoid getting looked down on by a certain someone. Then, she subconsciously looked at Murong Shi.


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze, Murong Shi said, "I''m not drinking."


    "You''re forcing me to drink even though you''re not drinking yourself?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in surprise.


    "Who forced you?"


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly realized her mistake. Murong Shi indeed did not force her into drinking anything. The woman had only incited her with a provocation, and she had foolishly fallen for it!


    Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded momentarily. She then turned back to the waiter and said, "Make that six cocktails and one iced water."


    The iced water was naturally for the person who used driving as an excuse to avoid drinking.


    When Xu Chuanchuan pushed the ss of iced water to Murong Shi, Murong Shi became a little stunned. Then, after saying thank you, she said in a suppressed voice, "I didn''t expect you to be so thoughtful."


    Snorting, Xu Chuanchuan said, "My character is much better than some people."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi asked, "Is bad-mouthing people behind their backs considered having a good character?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan realized that the biggest mistake she made today was to have a battle of words with Murong Shi. So, she decided to keep her mouth shut. Then, she distributed the bottled cocktails to Xu Xiangxiang''s three roommates sitting beside Murong Shi and warned them to avoid drinking too much.


    When Xiangxiang eventually received her bottle, sheined, "Sis, you ordered too little. This one bottle won''t be enough for me."


    "Drink a little less. Who''s going to carry you back if you get drunk?" Xu Chuanchuan said helplessly.


    In a righteous tone, Xu Xiangxiang replied, "It''s my birthday today. Can''t I indulge myself a little?"


    What else could Xu Chuanchuan say to this? Leaving her little sister to her own devices, Xu Chuanchuan looked at the bottle of alcohol in her hand. Just as she was about to tilt her head and drink it


    Murong Shi suddenly raised the ss she held and smiled ambiguously at Xu Chuanchuan. "To you for being a man, cheers."


    Xu Chuanchuan was left speechless for a moment as she looked at the iced water in Murong Shi''s hand, and she couldn''t help but wonder why she never realized that Murong Shi was such a shameless person.


    Without waiting for Xu Chuanchuan to respond, Murong Shi clinked sses with the other party and took a sip of iced water.


    When Murong Shi put down her cup, traces of red lipstick were left on the cup''s outer edge. Xu Chuanchuan''s throat tightened when she saw the lipstick mark, and she let out a muffled choke as she drank her cocktail.


    At this time, the singer on stage started humming a folk song with a story. His unique voice appeared to be infectious as the bar slowly quieted down. Some people also sobbed a little at his song.


    Even Xu Chuanchuan, who deemed herself to have no artistic cells in her body, couldn''t help but be infected by the tranquil atmosphere and be enchanted by the song for a moment. Despite being in the noisy downtown area, she felt as if her soul was being cleansed.


    It was no wonder why business in this pub was booming. If not for Murong Shi sitting beside her, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she would fall in love with this establishment.


    Of course, not everyone in the pub was quietly listening to the song. An exception to this would be Xu Xiangxiang and Fang Qin. Previously, Xu Xiangxiang had been thoroughly enchanted by the male singer on stage. However, she now drank and merrily chatted with Fang Qin about life, behaving like she had just met her soulmate.


    Regardless, the scene in the pub was a beautiful one. When the song ended, the customers in the store broke into a round of apuse.


    Xu Chuanchuan also apuded.


    Xu Xiangxiang''s three roommates were called Xiao Lu, Qingqing, and Jingjing. Out of the three, Qingqing had the most intense reaction when the song ended as she jumped and screamed, "Wahhhh! How cool! I want a boyfriend like him!"


    "Go up and confess, then," Jingjing encouraged.


    Blushing, Qingqing shyly said, "That''s too embarrassing for me."


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled when she saw the love-struck reactions of these younger girls. However, when she heard Murong Shi chuckling, she could no longer keep her smile.


    "See? Even Big Sis Shishi isughing at you," Jingjing said.


    In response, Qingqing put on a look of expectation as she looked at Murong Shi and asked, "Big Sis Shishi, don''t you think this lead singer is very handsome?"


    After taking a look at the people on stage, Murong Shi answered, "Average."


    Looking disappointed, Qingqing said, "That''s still average? He''s already the most handsome guy I''ve ever seen. Most importantly, he also knows how to sing well."


    Not wanting to dampen the enthusiasm of the younger girls, Murong Shi smiled and did not say anything.


    Xu Xiangxiang''s three roommates were unaware of Murong Shi''s identity, so they could chat with her without feeling burdened. At some point, their conversation topic suddenly changed to rtionships.


    "Big Sis Shishi, you''re so beautiful, so you must have a lot of handsome men chasing after you, right?" Qingqing asked.


    However, Murong Shi smiled and said, "No, I don''t."


    The three girls simultaneously revealed surprised expressions. Then, Qingqing said, "I don''t believe it."


    "I don''t believe it, either," Jingjing followed up.


    Xiao Lu was the most introverted of the three. Finally, after pondering for a moment, she said in a soft voice, "I think it''s probably because Big Sis Shishi is too excellent that men don''t dare pursue her."


    Murong Shi smiled cryptically and let the three girls have fun with their wild spections.


    Suddenly, Qingqing pped her hands and asked, "Then, do you have a boyfriend, Big Sis Shishi?"


    After taking a sip of iced water, Murong Shi casually answered, "I did, but we broke up."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped.


    <em>Murong Shi and Jiang Shaohua broke up? When did it happen? Was it before or after she forcibly kissed me?</em>


    When thest question came up in her mind, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if her brain was damaged. What did it matter to her if the break-up happened before or after the kiss?


    Meanwhile, the three younger girls awkwardly looked at each other for a moment.


    Then, Qingqing softly said, "We''re sorry."


    However, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "It''s okay."


    In an attempt to break the awkward situation, Qingqing cleared her throat and said, "It''s boring if we do nothing but drink, so let''s y some dice!"


    "Yeah!" the two other girls echoed.


    Looking at the person who was currently getting high from alcohol, Qingqing said, "Xiangxiang, we''re going to y dice. Stop drinking and join us."


    The night was still young. It would indeed be boring if they just kept drinking and listening to songs, so everyone quickly approved Qingqing''s proposal.


    Xu Xiangxiang was the most excited at this suggestion. Setting her bottle aside, she said, "Let''s set some game rules. The one who rolls the lowest needs to finish a ss of alcohol."


    "What if we get drunk?" Xiao Lu asked.


    "We can have the waiter bring us the smallest sses they have. Even someone with low alcohol tolerance won''t get drunk from drinking such a small amount."


    By the time Fang Qin finished speaking, Xu Xiangxiang had already called for the waiter to rece their alcohol sses. She then grabbed the dice on the table and asked, "Can we start now?"


    At this time, Murong Shi said, "You girls have fun. I''m not drinking."


    Wrinkling her nose, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Big Sis Shishi, you''re such a spoilsport. It won''t be interesting if you don''t y."


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin narrowed her eyes and looked at the little remaining iced water in Murong Shi''s ss. Then, she said, "Let''s change the rules, then. The person with the most points can give the person with the fewest points a punishment. As for the punishment Let''s go with truth or dare. If you refuse both options, then you''ll have to drink three sses. What does everyone think?"


    Upon hearing Fang Qin''s suggestion, Xu Chuanchuan pped in agreement as she said, "This is good! This is good!"


    The game might sound childish, but it was very entertaining once the game started. As the birthday girl, Xu Xiangxiang had excellent luck today, and she rolled thergest number on her first roll.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi rolled the smallest number for the first game. Then, in a rxed tone, she said, "I''ll go with truth."


    Xu Xiangxiang did not expect to sh with Murong Shi on the first roll, so she mentally struggled with what she should ask. It would be rude of her to ask something too private, yet it would also be pointless if she asked something that wasn''t private. Finally, after struggling for a long time, she turned to Xu Chuanchuan for help, "Sis, you ask."


    Xu Chuanchuan screamed bitterly in her heart. She also couldn''t help butment over how <em>wonderful </em>of a little sister she had. The girl didn''t even blink when throwing her elder sister under the bus.


    While everyone else was eagerly looking at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi wore a calm and collected look on her face as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan. However, Xu Chuanchuan could also sense a hidden threat in those tranquil eyes, as if they were saying, "You''d better take it easy on me."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew upset when she saw Murong Shi''s expression. Then, thinking that this was a game and that Murong Shi wouldn''t do anything to her so long as she didn''t go too far, she inhaled and asked, "When was your first kiss?"

 Chapter 43: Pt.2

    Chapter 43: Pt.2


    After inhaling quietly, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "When was your first kiss?"


    "Wow, I like this question! You''re awesome, Sis!" Xu Xiangxiang reached out for a high-five.


    While the two Xu sisters high-fived each other, Murong Shi faintly smiled and answered without much thought, "In kindergarten when I was around five or six."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression stiffened.


    Ignoring Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction, Murong Shi frankly pointed at Fang Qin, who sat on Xu Chuanchuan''s other side, and added, "My partner was her."


    Fang Qin faked a cough when she got named. Then, she reluctantly admitted, "She''s right."


    Xu Xiangxiang appeared seemingly dissatisfied by this answer. Pouting, she said, "How can a kiss between two girls count? Big Sis Shishi, you''re cheating."


    "How can it not be counted? It''s you two who didn''t rify the question," Murong Shi said calmly.


    After pursing her lips for a moment, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Alright, fine. You pass this question. Let''s continue, continue."


    Using the sound of the rolling dice as camouge, Xu Chuanchuan leaned into Fang Qin''s right ear and asked, "Was she the one who kissed you first at that time?"


    Shocked, Fang Qin asked, "How did you know?"


    "I...guessed it."


    Fang Qing gave Xu Chuanchuan a thumbs up.


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan looked to Murong Shi, who sat on her left, and thought to herself, <em>Pervert. You don''t even spare little children.</em>


    <em>Wait, no Murong Shi should have been a little child at the time as well</em>


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan felt her right sleeve getting tugged. Then, she heard Fang Qin''s voice saying, "Actually, Murong cheated on this question. At the time, we only had one piece of candy between the two of us. I lied to her, saying we would split it in half, but I ended up putting the whole piece into my mouth instead. Out of anger, she lunged at me to bite me and ended up biting my lips."


    When Xu Chuanchuan heard the whole story, she couldn''t help but shudder. She never thought that Murong Shi would already be so violent at such a young age. Then, she subconsciously touched her lips.


    Then, Fang Qin continued, "You should ask her from a different approach. If you do that, I bet she wouldn''t dare answer."


    Curious, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How should I ask her?"


    Leaning closer into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear, Fang Qing said, "Ask her when she had a French kiss. She definitely won''t be able to answer you."


    "W-Why?"


    Revealing an evil smirk, Fang Qin said, "Because she still has her first French kiss! How could she bear the shame of revealing that?"


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "But didn''t she have a boy"


    "Are you two badmouthing me?"


    Murong Shi suddenly interjected, putting a halt to the conversation between Xu Chuanchuan and Fang Qin.


    Meanwhile, the game continued.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s luck was neither good nor bad. After several rounds, she never won or lost any. Murong Shi, on the other hand, won a hand. Then, she pointed at Fang Qin, who rolled the smallest number for the round, and said, "You, go find a handsome man and publicly confess your love for him. Make sure that all of us can hear it."


    In response, Fang Qin said, "No, I''ll drink."


    However, Murong Shi snatched the ss out of Fang Qin''s hand and said, "You''ve drunk enough already."


    Standing up, Fang Qin said, "Girls, you like that handsome singer, right? Wait for me. Big Sister will get his WeChat for you."


    "Okay! Okay! All hail Big Sis Fang Qin!" Qingqing cheered.


    Including Xu Xiangxiang, the four love-struck girls held their phones in hand as they waited for Fang Qin''s return. However, even after waiting for some time, Fang Qin did not return.


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang pointed at two figures standing at a corner and said, "Why is Big Sis Fang Qin flirting with a girl?"


    Murong Shi followed Xu Xiangxiang''s finger. Noticing the delicate situation, she stood up and said, "I''ll go get her."


    When Murong Shi got closer, she found that the atmosphere surrounding the table Fang Qin sat at was strange. Fang Qin wasn''t flirting with a girl at all. Instead, her eyes had turned red and moist as she held a drunk girl in her arms.


    Who else could cause Fang Qin to lose control of herself?


    Murong Shi almost immediately recognized the woman in Fang Qin''s arms to be her friend''s ex-girlfriend, and she couldn''t help but frown at this sight.


    Murong Shi found this night to be quite strange. Initially, Fang Qin had asked her out for a drive because she was bored staying at home. When they were passing by this pub, Fang Qin suddenly said, "This is the ce where I first met her."


    Murong Shi did not make a sound as she suddenly increased the throttle.


    However, Fang Qin reluctantly stared at the bar before saying, "Have a drink with me in there."


    It wasn''t easy to get a heartbroken person to walk out of their gloom. Murong Shi felt that Fang Qin was cocooning herself, but when she saw her friend''s sorrowful appearance, she couldn''t bring herself to reject the other party''s request.


    Murong Shi never expected to meet Xu Chuanchuan in the pub, much less for Fang Qin to meet up with her ex-girlfriend. So, Murong Shi wasn''t sure what would be going through her friend''s mind right now.


    "Do you need my help?" Murong Shi asked.


    Looking down at the crying girl in her arms, Fang Qin sighed and said, "No. I''ll send her back myself. You continue enjoying yourself."


    Murong Shi couldn''t feel at ease as she watched the two backs of the two staggering women, so she helped Fang Qin carry her drunken ex-girlfriend out of the pub and even hailed a taxi for them.


    "I''m going," Fang Qin said as she waved at Murong Shi.


    Although Murong Shi wanted to say something, she ended up holding back.


    Afterward, Murong Shi returned to the pub alone and exined Fang Qin''s departure to the five people at the table, "She met her friend. Her friend is drunk, so she decided to send her friend back first."


    Xu Xiangxiang grew very frustrated when she received such a result after waiting for such a long time.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan saw that it was gettingte and remembered that she still had work tomorrow. So, she said, "Let''s head home as well."


    Although Murong Shi had a car, her car couldn''t fit so many people.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan hailed two taxis for Xu Xiangxiang''s group and saw them off. Then, she lowered her head and said to Murong Shi, "I''ll be returning home as well."


    "I''ll drop you off."


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised. After taking a look at Murong Shi, she quickly lowered her head again and said, "We don''t seem to be heading the same way."


    Murong Shi pondered for a moment at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she said, "I''ll drop you off at that intersection ahead. There are many pubs and drunks here; it''ll be dangerous for you to try to get a cab here all by yourself."


    Xu Chuanchuan eventually gave in to Murong Shi''s reasoning.


    There were only the two of them in the car, and both of them tacitly kept their mouths shut.


    The road at night was clear of traffic, but Murong Shi drove the car very slowly. The car moved so slowly that Xu Chuanchuan began to feel anxious. If she hadn''t been drinking, she would''ve very much wanted to snatch the steering wheel from Murong Shi.


    "Alright, you can get off here."


    Xu Chuanchuan came back to her senses, only to find that Murong Shi had parked the car at an intersection surrounded by stores. Then, she slowly unbuckled her seatbelt and said, "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. There''s an empty cabing up behind. Be careful when getting off."


    Xu Chuanchuan also noticed the taxi approaching from behind. If she got out of the car now, she would be able to stop it in time. However, she hesitated.


    After hesitating for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan retracted her feet. Then, relying on the alcohol in her blood, she carefully voiced out her doubts, "Just now, when we were ying the game, Fang Qin said you cheated. She says that kiss can only be counted as a bite; it wasn''t a kiss at all."


    Murong Shi had been keeping her eyes in front throughout the entire drive. When she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words, she turned sideways and looked at the person beside her with interest. "So what? The game is already over."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew so nervous that her lips turned white. Then, clenching her fists, she said, "She also said thatyou have never kissed anyone else after that"


    Murong Shi briefly blinked in surprise but did not follow up with Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    "What I''m curious about isyou had a boyfriend before, so why"


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to finish her sentence. Just by staring at her with an indifferent expression, Murong Shi had caused her to lose all of her courage.


    "What are you trying to say?" Murong Shi asked in a gentle voice. Yet, her expression remained indifferent when she spoke.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that she only had this one chance to ask this question. After shutting her eyes and taking a deep breath, she opened her eyes again and asked, "So, that nightwas your first kiss?"


    Murong Shi tilted her head, causing her long and dense hair to pour down her shoulder and giving her the image of a charming wild cat. Murong Shi originally already possessed beautiful facial features. However, in this dark environment, she became even more breathtakingly beautiful.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heartbeat suddenly elerating. However, when she heard Murong Shi''s following words, she couldn''t help but want to bite the other party.


    Putting on a faintly contemptuous smile, Murong Shi said, "Whether it is or not, what does it have to do with you?"


    "..."


    Ever since Murong Shi had forcibly kissed her, Xu Chuanchuan found that her brain was bing increasingly useless. How stupid could she be? Couldn''t she have just left? Why did she have to ask all this nonsense?


    Lowering her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan swallowed the saliva that had pooled in her mouth and said, "Thank you for sending me. Goodbye."


    When Xu Chuanchuan opened the door, she immediately felt hot air rushing her face. However, she wanted nothing more than to leave the car as soon as possible, so she powered through the difort she felt.


    Yet, just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to move one foot out of the car, someone suddenly grabbed her wrist.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at the hand that was grabbing her wrist, she turned to look at Murong Shi in disbelief and asked, "W-What is the meaning of this?"


    Murong Shi did not put a lot of strength into her hand, yet Xu Chuanchuan found herself pinned down and unable to move. Maybe it was because of the air conditioning causing her body to seek to remain in the cool environment instinctively


    Murong Shi''s slender eyes shone with a delicate light, making her look exactly the same as she did on <em>that </em>night.


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily dumbfounded. However, she quickly snapped out of her daze and retracted her hand when she felt Murong Shi lightly caressed her bare skin.


    The next moment, Murong Shi quietly said, "You''ve never been in a rtionship before, right?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was so embarrassed that she lowered her head even further. Then, she said, "Whether I''ve been in a rtionship or not is none of your business."


    Xu Chuanchuan thought Murong Shi would get angry. Either that or she would ridicule her with words again. However, she never thought Murong Shi would suddenlyugh. Moreover, it was even a joyfulugh.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why are youughing?"


    In response, Murong Shi raised her hand and extended her index finger to lift Xu Chuanchuan''s chin.


    Xu Chuanchuan was so surprised that she pped Murong Shi''s hand away and shrank back her body. Then, she looked at Murong Shi warily and asked, "W-W-What are you doing?!"


    Smiling, Murong Shi stared at Xu Chuanchuan so intently that it felt as if her eyes were overflowing with love. Then, she said, "Xu Chuanchuan, be my girlfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s head buzzed, and she couldn''t help but stare at Murong Shi with widened eyes. "What did you say?"


    Suddenly, Murong Shi started running her fingers through Xu Chuanchuan''s hair, causing thetter to feel itchy. However, Xu Chuanchuan was so shocked that she forgot to even resist.


    "I used to think that you were dull and boring, but after our recent interactions, I found that you were quite the interesting person," Murong Shi said.


    "So?" Xu Chuanchuan tensed up her body.


    "So, we can try dating."


    Xu Chuanchuan was thunderstruck. Then, looking at Murong Shi as if she were looking at a ghost, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you messing with me?"


    However, Murong Shi calmly replied, "Why would I mess with you?"


    "You... Don''t you like men?"


    "Who told you I liked men?"


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "If you don''t like men... Why would you have a boyfriend?"


    "Who stipted that a woman can''t like women just because they''ve had a boyfriend before?" Murong Shi said, her expression remaining unchanged.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless.


    Murong Shi liked women? This was probably the most absurd thing Xu Chuanchuan had ever heard throughout her life.


    However, now wasn''t the time to care about such things. Whether Murong Shi was messing with her or not, Xu Chuanchuan was determined to make the other party understand a fact.


    Sitting upright, Xu Chuanchuan said righteously, "I''m sorry, but I''m not interested in women."


    However, Murong Shi immediately shot back by asking, "Why did you stick out your tongue if you weren''t interested?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned beet red upon hearing these words. Then, stammering, "I-I wanted to push out your tongue!"


    "Oh? How did it feel, then?" Murong Shi asked, a yful smile appearing on her face.


    Xu Chuanchuan admitted that Murong Shi was very beautiful. And when an attractive person smiled, an average person would have difficulty resisting it. Yet, why did she find Murong Shi''s current smile to be so strange?


    Sensing goosebumps rising all over her body, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I didn''t feel anything."


    "Did you not like it?" Murong Shi asked, narrowing her eyes.


    Gritting her teeth, Xu Chuanchuan firmly said, "I didn''t like it one little bit."


    Feeling a little disappointed, Murong Shi released Xu Chuanchuan''s hair. Then, she sneered and said, "What a dishonest woman."

 Chapter 44: Pt.1

    Chapter 44: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan was mad for real this time. Murong Shi''s sneer especially irritated her. So, without mentally processing her words, she said, "I really think it''s bad for you to act this way."


    "What''s bad?" Murong Shi asked, her expression remaining nonchnt as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It was you who kissed me out of the blue, yet you want me to start dating you for some reason? Don''t you think you''re taking this too casually?"


    Murong Shi frowned at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, as if holding back the anger within her, she asked in a cold voice, "Do you think I''m such a willful person?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly lost the courage to keep her eyes on Murong Shi when she heard the other party''s cold voice. Then, she said in a quiet tone, "At the very least, I wouldn''t use alcohol as an excuse to kiss another person arbitrarily."


    Sighing, Murong Shi said, "I''ve already apologized to you for that matter. What else do you want me to do?"


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan, too, found her action of bringing up past problems to be shameful. Biting her lower lip, she quickly turned her head away and said, "Nothing."


    Subsequently, silence enveloped the car for several seconds as neither Xu Chuanchuan nor Murong Shi continued speaking.


    Then, Murong Shi suddenly broke the silence and said, "I thought your reaction meant that you weren''t disgusted at the prospect of dating. I didn''t think... Sorry, just pretend as if I never said anything."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she eventually arrived back at her dormitory. As the alcohol made her head feel dizzy, she lost all motivation to move her body as soon as sheid on her bed. Meanwhile, amidst the silence, her mind kept thinking about Murong Shi''s words to her in the car.


    If Xu Chuanchuan were to be honest, she didn''t dislike Murong Shi in general. However, she couldn''t stand Murong Shi''s attitude.


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan only dared to curse at Murong Shi in her heart. After all, quarreling was not her forte. Had she been able to fire back a few sentences, she wouldn''t be feeling so depressed right now.


    However, after Xu Chuanchuan''s anger subsided, she suddenly thought of a serious problem. Now that she had rejected Murong Shi''s approach, wouldn''t Murong Shi retaliate against her?


    <em>With that person''s vengeful personality This isn''t an impossibility! </em>The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about this possibility, the more afraid she became. Immediately, she pulled out her phone and conducted an online search: "What are the consequences of offending a Scorpio?"


    The answers Xu Chuanchuan found online were shocking, and she couldn''t help but break out in cold sweat. Then, the following scene suddenly emerged in her mind


    Murong Shi had called her to the office. Then, Murong Shi tossed a sheet of paper in her face and contemptuously said, "You''re fired."


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered at this thought, and she immediately snapped out of her daze.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly climbed out of bed, pointed at the empty space in front of her while imagining Murong Shi was standing there, and said, "Fine, then! I''ve long since wanted to quit!"


    After saying so, Xu Chuanchuan huped and felt her momentum disappearing. Then, her shoulders crumbled, and she listlessly made her way to the bathroom to take a shower.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan knew that she was doing nothing but scare herself. Xu Chuanchuan knew that while Murong Shi might have a domineering personality and was adept at messing with people, the woman wouldn''t do anything to her for a silly reason such as rejecting her confession.


    At most, Murong Shi would pretend as if the confession had never happened, just like how she had previously acted as if the kissing incident had never happened.


    What Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t understand was what Murong Shi was trying to do. If Murong Shi was simply trying to mess with her, then once should''ve been enough. Was there a need for a second time?


    Yet, if Murong Shi was serious about her confession, her kiss was simply too whimsical in Xu Chuanchuan''s opinion. Through the kiss, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if Murong Shi treated rtionships like nothing but a joke.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was showering, she identally got some foam into her eyes. After trying to wash it out and suffering from the stinging pain for some time, she found that her eyes had reddened as if she had just cried.


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan had dried her hair, she was already getting sleepy. Out of habit, though, she started fiddling with her phone and reading unread messages before going to sleep.


    Ange: "Are you not writing anything today, either?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s my little sister''s birthday today, so I went out to celebrate it with her."


    Ange: "Tang''er, you''ve been acting out of the norm recently."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What do you mean?"


    Ange: "Only now did you reply to the message I sent at eight o''clock. This means you didn''t look at your phone the entire night. Is that not abnormal?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "But I was in a pub at the time."


    Ange: "Apart from tonight, you''ve been acting abnormally for the past few days as well. You don''t write when you have the opportunity to do so, you also sound apathetic when I try to chat with you. Out with it. You must''ve found a dog outside, right? You must''ve abandoned me after finding new love, right?!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No, I only have you. I love you, muah~"


    Ange: "Why do I feel as if you''ve started dating someone?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she saw this message.


    Unfortunately, while Xu Chuanchuan might not be in a rtionship, her recent troubles were indeed rted to it. Murong Shi was all to me for making a mess of her heart.


    Regardless, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel guilty as she replied: "No, I''m still a single dog. Woof, woof~"


    Xu Chuanchuan very much wanted to tell Ange about her troubles, yet she found herself unable to do so. Even until now, she still found it incredibly embarrassing that she had her first kiss stolen, and there was nothing she could do about it. Moreover, if Ange found out that Murong Shi was the person who forcibly kissed her, she would probably explode.


    After making some lighthearted conversation with Ange, Xu Chuanchuan felt her mood brightening significantly. However, after bidding each other goodbye and turning off the lights, she had insomnia again.


    Since Xu Chuanchuan didn''t sleep well, her spirit the next day was naturally terrible. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have the habit of putting on makeup, and neither did she have a stockpile of cosmetic products lying around. So, she left for work after casually putting on ayer of sunscreen.


    Ever since Murong Shi had stopped asking for her assistance, Xu Chuanchuan''s work-life returned to normal. As she didn''t have a lot of work to do, she slowly did them one by one.


    At one point during the day, she visited the photography room. When she came out of the stuffy room, she was already drenched in sweat. Coincidentally, she also came across the Business Department''s assistant.


    "Oh, so you were here, Little Xu."


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan looked at the other party and asked, "Were you looking for me?"


    "Miss Murong has been looking for you all day."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression stiffened at these words. Then, forgetting even to wipe the sweat dripping down her forehead, she asked, "Why is she looking for me?"


    "She didn''t say, so how would I know?"


    "...Alright, I got it."


    "You should hurry. She happens to be free right now."


    Xu Chuanchuan entered a trance as she made her way to the washroom. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she found that her face looked as white as a sheet of paper. Whether this resulted from her sunscreen being of poor quality or some other reason, she did not know.


    <em>Why is Murong Shi looking for me? Shouldn''t she pretend as if nothing has happened likest time?</em>


    This situation was different from what Xu Chuanchuan expected. However, she also dared not waste too much time.


    After just one night, Xu Chuanchuan could no longer look at Murong Shi with the same mentality as she had before. Although she would still get nervous like usual, she now found herself falling into a daze for no reason when she looked at Murong Shi. Clearing her throat, she softly asked, "Were you looking for me?"


    Murong Shi hinted at Xu Chuanchuan to move closer. Then, she pulled out a wrapped gift box from a drawer and handed it to Xu Chuanchuan.


    Confused by this situation, Xu Chuanchuan did not ept the box.


    "This is a present for Xiangxiang. Help me pass it to her," Murong Shi exined.


    Xu Chuanchuan breathed out a sigh of relief when she heard Murong Shi''s words. Then, she epted the gift box and hesitantly asked, "What is it?"


    "It''s the lipstick she wanted."


    Murong Shi''s gifts definitely wouldn''t be cheap, and this was also what Xu Chuanchuan was concerned about. Xu Chuanchuan felt that she shouldn''t ept it, yet she couldn''t think up to refuse it., either. After all, this wasn''t a gift meant for her.


    Xu Chuanchuan also didn''t think Murong Shi would prepare a gift for Xu Xiangxiang. However, while she was indeed surprised, she did not show it on her face. Then, lowering her gaze, she said, "Thank you."


    Even until Xu Chuanchuan left the office, she did not see what kind of expression Murong Shi wore on her face.


    When Xu Chuanchuan gave her little sister a call and told her about Murong Shi''s present, the girl got so excited that she flew to thepany on the same night to retrieve it.


    When Xu Xiangxiang unwrapped the present and saw the item inside, she went crazy once more. While grabbing and shaking Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders, she screamed, "It''s an Armani lip gloss!!! I only offhandedly asked Big Sis Shishi about it that day! I didn''t think she would remember it!"


    Xu Chuanchuan grew a little dizzy from being repeatedly shaken. Then, she rolled her eyes as she said, "Calm down."


    Smiling from ear to ear, Xu Xiangxiang said, "There''s no way I can calm down. Big Sis Shishi is such a kind person. I love her to death! How do you think I should thank her?"


    "Up to you."


    "Should I invite her to dinner again?"


    "Ask her yourself if you want to. I won''t be apanying you this time."


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang finally noticed that something was amiss with her elder sister''s tone. Then, she asked, "What happened?"


    Xu Chuanchuan groaned for a moment before saying, "Xiangxiang, Miss Murong lives in a different world from us, so it would be best if you stopped bothering her in the future. Once or twice might be fine, but any more, and it''ll be an annoyance."


    Blinking her eyes innocently, Xu Xiangxiang said, "But Big Sis Shishi enjoys talking to me. She says she likes me."


    "That''s just her being polite. Do you understand what polite speech is? You''ve only met each other a few times, and you barely know her. Stop being so silly and innocent in the future. Asking someone you''re not familiar with for presents is rude."


    Putting on an aggrieved look, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I didn''t ask her for a present. I only asked what lipstick she was using at the time. How would I know she would so generously give me one? Sis, I think you''re too opinionated of Big Sis Shishi. I already noticed it thest time we went out shopping. So, what exactly happened between the two of you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes flickered for a moment. Afraid that her little sister would pry too deeply, she quickly made up an excuse, "I just don''t want her to think that I''m trying to curry favor with her."


    Although Xu Xiangxiang still wanted to say something, Xu Chuanchuan refused to give her any opportunities as she said, "Now that you''ve got your present, hurry up and leave."

 Chapter 44: Pt.2

    Chapter 44: Pt.2


    Afterpleting the book, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t hurry to start a new one. Instead, seeing that she had made quite a lot of money from this book and the readers'' response toward it was enthusiastic, she decided to give something back to her readers.


    It took her a whole week to do the proofreading personally. After doing so, she handed the manuscript to the workshop she previously worked with to print the physical copies of her books. After telling the workshop her requirements, the other side quicklypleted the necessary arrangements. As she was only printing 20 books this time, she received the finished product in no time.


    For fairness''s sake, Xu Chuanchuan decided to give away the books in the form of a Weibo lottery. Before publishing the Weibo post, though, she suddenly thought of a certain someone. So, she tapped on Passerby Shi''s QQ avatar.


    I Love Mtang: "I made physical copies of thetest book and kept a copy for you. Should I send it to the previous address?"


    Unfortunately, Passerby Shi did not reply.


    It had already been a long time since Passerby Shi had "disappeared" from her novel, so Xu Chuanchuan thought that the other party might be busy again in real life. However, since she already promised to give Passerby Shi a physical copy previously, even if the other party did not reply to her, Xu Chuanchuan still sent a copy to the previous address.


    ...


    Murong Shi did not see the message Xu Chuanchuan sent her as she was helping Fang Qin pack her luggage. "Do you still want these six books?"


    These were books Xu Chuanchuan had sent over. Although the cover of these books had already been creased, Fang Qin had hardly read any of their contents. Without even thinking, Fang Qin replied, "Of course I do."


    Murong Shi fell silent. She still remembered what happened after she came home from celebrating Xu Xiangxiang''s birthday two days ago. At the time, Fang Qin hade looking for her crestfallen and said, "It turns out that she often visits that pub after returning to the country."


    Murong Shi didn''t need to guess that "she" referred to Fang Qin''s ex-girlfriend, so she did not interrupt her friend''s words.


    Then, Fang Qin mumbled to herself, "I thought she would be happy if she left me, but in fact, she isn''t happy at all."


    "Do you n to get back together with her?"


    Shaking her head, Fang Qin said, "Her mother is severely ill, and she promised her mother to get married before her mother departed. Between family and love, she chose the former. I don''t me her, really. I only me myself for giving up everything for her. I even cut off contact with my family. I really am stupid. My parents must hate me to death now."


    Afterward, Fang Qin decided to cast aside her lingering feelings and return home to beg her parents for forgiveness.


    Meanwhile, hearing Fang Qin''s decision to keep the books, Murong Shi found a piece of clean, floral-patterned cloth to wrap the books. Then, she ced the books into one of Fang Qin''s luggage.


    "Alright, I''ve bothered you for long enough. I''m going back now," Fang Qin said with a smile.


    Although Murong Shi offered to drive Fang Qin home, thetter had rejected her offer. Before parting ways, Murong Shi said to Fang Qin, "Stop thinking of the past. You need to look forward."


    Fang Qin nodded. Then, cing one hand on Murong Shi''s shoulder, Fang Qin said with a serious expression, "I don''t know who you''ll end up with in the future, but I want to give you a piece of advice."


    "What advice?"


    Revealing a bitter smile, Fang Qin said, "You are a bit of a feminist, but make sure you don''t fall for an emotionally weak person. Otherwise, you''ll end up like me."


    Murong Shi did not say anything in response.


    Fang Qin stuffed her luggage onto the taxi''s trunk. Then, before getting into the car, she solemnly said, "I still have another piece of advice. Make sure you do not provoke straight women. Otherwise, you won''t have a good ending, either."


    "Can''t you say something nice?" Murong Shi grumbled, finally growing annoyed by her friend''s parting remarks.


    Fang Qin then ran away with a smile on her face.


    The next time Xu Chuanchuan received Murong Shi''s summons was through the phone. When Xu Chuanchuan heard herndline phone ringing, she answered the call without even looking at the caller ID. "Hello?"


    "Come to my office after work. I have something to give you."


    It had already been half a month since the two of them had any interaction with each other. Even if they in thepany, they only regarded each other as invisible air. Hence, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be startled when she suddenly heard Murong Shi''s voice. Timidly, she asked, "What is it?"


    "You''ll know once you''re here."


    <em>What''s with the mystery?</em>


    After work, Xu Chuanchuan waited until most of the people in the Engineering Department had left before making her way to the general manager''s office.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could say anything, Murong Shi pointed at a huge box set on the coffee table and said, "A gift from Aunt Lian."


    When Xu Chuanchuan walked over and opened the cardboard box, she found that lychees and watermelon filled it.


    The lychees were plump, and they were even attached to branches with leaves still. Judging by the color of the leaves, it appeared that these lychees had been picked only recently. And although there was only one watermelon in the box, it was round and chubby. It looked like it could easily weigh around five or six kilograms.


    "This is..." Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily stunned.


    "Aunt Lian brought those back from her hometown, and she had me bring them to you."


    Her jaw dropping, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "All this is for me?"


    "Mhm."


    "But I can''t finish everything by myself."


    "Don''t you have a fridge upstairs?"


    "But...why give me so many?"


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi said, "Aunt Lian likes you. She will always remember the time you helped her."


    "But I really can''t finish everything... Why don''t you take some back?"


    "No, we still have a lot more at home. This is Aunt Lian''s token of appreciation, so just ept it. If you think you can''t finish everything, you can share some with your little sister."


    The big box was cumbersome, and Xu Chuanchuan struggled to pick it up. She also couldn''t help but wonder how Murong Shi had managed to carry it all the way here.


    Murong Shi appeared to be very busy as she immediately resumed typing away at the keyboard after their conversation ended. After wiping the sweat on her forehead, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to interrupt Murong Shi, "It''s too heavy for me to carry. Don''t you have a fridge here? How about I store some in it?"


    Murong Shi stopped typing and looked toward Xu Chuanchuan and the box beside her. Then, she asked, "You can''t carry it? Aunt Lian says it weighs less than 20 kilos."


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed in embarrassment momentarily. Then, she asked, "Didn''t you find it heavy when you carried it up here?"


    In response, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "I had security help me carry it."


    "..." <em>So, what right do you have tough at me?</em>


    "We''ll carry it together, then."


    Only after Murong Shi had left her seat and arrived in front of her did Xu Chuanchuan realized what Murong Shi meant. "Y-You want to carry it with me?"


    Having already picked up one side of the box, Murong Shi said, "Hurry up."


    "Okay..."


    Murong Shi was wearing high heels, which further emphasized the difference in height between her and Xu Chuanchuan. This made it much more difficult for the two of them to carry the box up the stairs. Throughout the entire trip upstairs, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped with trepidation, afraid that Murong Shi would stumble and fall. Fortunately, the two of them arrived at their destination safely and soundly.


    Dust covered the bottom of the box. When Murong Shi let go of the box, she found that her hands were dirtied. While patting off some of the dust, she asked, "Can I borrow the bathroom?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded hurriedly. Although dust simrly covered her hand, she waited until Murong Shi was done washing her hands before entering the bathroom herself.


    "Please thank Aunt Lian for me. Also, please tell her to stop being so courteous next time."


    "That will depend on her. What can I do if she likes you so much?" Murong Shi said, smiling.


    When Murong Shi smiled, the ends of her eyes became even more prominent, which made her even more attractive. Xu Chuanchuan quickly shifted her eyes away and evaded the subject at hand as she asked, "How about I cut open the watermelon now? We can share it."


    After staring at Xu Chuanchuan for several seconds, Murong Shi said, "Nevermind. It doesn''t seem like you''re willing for me to stay here. Enjoy it at your leisure."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    After storing all of the lychees, Xu Chuanchuan found hardly any space left inside the refrigerator. So, she chopped the watermelon in half and scooped up the fruit into a bowl using a spoon. Then, she put the bowl into the freezer for 15 minutes.


    Frozen watermelon was the perfect food to cool off from a hot day. After finishing half the bowl, Xu Chuanchuan had solved her dinner. Then, she grabbed some lychees, washed them, and started peeling and eating them while watching TV.


    The lychees were sweet and meaty. They were also packed full of juices. The more Xu Chuanchuan ate, the more addicted she got to them. Before she realized it, she had already finished the ones she had washed. Then, she burped while rubbing her bloated belly.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that Aunt Lian was a genuinely wonderful person. First, the older woman had treated her to a wonderful meal. Now, she had given her a bunch of fruits. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel ashamed for receiving so many gifts. If not for Aunt Lian living in the same house as Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve very much liked to thank Aunt Lian in person.


    After wracking her mind for some time, Xu Chuanchuan opened up Taobao on her phone and bought a handheld massager.


    Middle-aged and elderly people generally had back problems. Xu Chuanchuan had previously bought a handheld massager for her mother as well, and her mother only had praises for the product. Hence, she decided to buy one as a gift for Aunt Lian.


    After resting for a while, Xu Chuanchuan went to take a shower.


    The fruits she typically ate came together with the food deliveries she ordered, and none of them tasted very good. But, after eating the fruits Aunt Lian gave her today, Xu Chuanchuan realized just how delicious fruits could taste. So, she was in an excellent mood when she went to bed.


    However, tragedy struck when midnight arrived.


    An intense abdominal pain rudely awakened Xu Chuanchuan. After turning on the lights, she promptly rushed into the bathroom to relieve herself.


    After nearly falling asleep on the toilet, Xu Chuanchuan climbed back to bed again. Shortly after sheid down, though, her stomach began grumbling again, so she quickly got out of bed and made her way to the bathroom...


    After going back and forth to the bathroom several times, Xu Chuanchuan eventually copsed onto her bed with not a shred of energy left in her body. When she realized that the sun was already rising outside, she nearly broke down into tears. Had she known this would happen, she would''ve never eaten so much iced watermelon.


    However, the stomach ache still wasn''t the worst part.


    The moment her phone''s rm rang, Xu Chuanchuan opened her eyes and sat up to turn it off. However, as soon as she sat up, she found that her whole body felt limp, and her head was suffering from a splitting headache.


    Moreover, despite the air conditioner being on, she was sweating all over. When she swallowed her saliva, she also found that she had a sore throat. It was then that she realized that she might''ve had a fever.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan had to acknowledge her fate and called her department chief to apply for a leave.


    After doing so, she boiled herself a pot of water. And just as she was about to ce a wet towel into the freezer, her phone rang.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw the word "Murong" disyed on the screen, her mind instantly became fully awake.


    Thest time Murong Shi had called her, Xu Chuanchuan had mindfully saved it thinking that she would have a use for it one day. However, she didn''t think that Murong Shi would take the initiative to call her at this early hour.


    After a moment of hesitation, Xu Chuanchuan picked up the call and struggled to speak with her sore throat, "Hello"


    "You really have a fever? Is it because you ate too many lycheesst night?"


    "..." xu Chuanchuan was momentarily stunned. Then, she felt her face gradually heating up. "Probably..."


    Murong Shi then sighed and said, "I forgot to remind you yesterday. Aunt Lian once warned me not to eat too many lychees at a time since there''s a high chance of falling ill from overeating lychees. I didn''t expect you to fall ill before I could have the chance to warn you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Have you taken medicine yet?"


    "<em>Cough.</em> No."


    It took around five minutes to boil a pot of water. However, before the water in the kettle could boil, Xu Chuanchuan heard someone knocking on the door.


    Everyone should already be at work at this time. Xu Chuanchuan was also living by herself now since Linda was on long-term leave. So, for a moment, she thought she had an auditory hallucination.


    However, after the knocking continued for a short moment, Xu Chuanchuan heard a voiceing through the door, "Xu Chuanchuan, open the door."


    The kettle just so happened to have started whistling when the person on the other side of the door spoke. In addition, the door also served to muffle the other person''s voice, so Xu Chuanchuan failed to discern who the voice belonged to. For a moment, she thought Linda had returned.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan opened the door, she found that the person standing outside was Murong Shi.


    "W-Why are you here?"


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s reddened cheeks, Murong Shi said, "I still have some leftover medicine from thest time I had a fever."


    After saying so, Murong Shi stuffed a stic bag into Xu Chuanchuan''s arms.

 Chapter 45: Pt.1

    Chapter 45: Pt.1


    Murong Shi seldom took the initiative to care for other people, so her current expression looked unnatural, her tone sounded blunt, and her movements were rough.


    Without even saying a greeting, Murong Shi stuffed the items she brought into Xu Chuanchuan''s arms. And by the time Xu Chuanchuan reacted to the situation, she could only watch as the stic bag filled with medicine fall to the ground.


    Both Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi failed to react to this unexpected development for some time. Then, the two of them silently nced at each other for a moment before simultaneously squatting down to pick up the bag.


    Unsurprisingly, the two of them ended up bumping foreheads together. Although there wasn''t much force involved in the collision, it still made Xu Chuanchuan feel dizzier than before.


    Amidst Xu Chuanchuan''s daze, Murong Shi had already picked up the stic bag. Initially, Murong Shi had thought to pass the stic bag to Xu Chuanchuan again. But when she noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s dazed expression, she paused.


    Then, Murong Shi suddenly reached out and ced a hand on Xu Chuanchuan''s forehead.


    Xu Chuanchuan widened her eyes in surprise at this action. Fortunately for her, Murong Shi only touched her forehead for a brief moment before retracting her hand.


    "It''s quite hot," Murong Shi said with a frown. Then, she pointed at the stic bag she held and said, "Apart from medicine, there''s also a thermometer in here."


    Sure enough, people would be vulnerable once they became ill. Because of the fever clogging her mind, Xu Chuanchuan temporarily forgot all the unhappy moments she shared with Murong Shi as she softly thanked the other party.


    Murong Shi instantly discerned a problem with Xu Chuanchuan''s throat after hearing the shorter woman speak. After taking a look at Xu Chuanchuan''s dry lips, Murong Shi asked, "Does your throat feel ufortable?"


    It was far worse than just mere difort. Right now, Xu Chuanchuan was even afraid of swallowing her saliva. To avoid speaking as much as possible, she ended up only nodding to Murong Shi''s question.


    "How many did you eatst night?" Murong Shi asked in a helpless tone.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at the overflowing trash can beside the coffee table. She couldn''t even bring herself to smile when she recalled how many lychees she had eatenst night.


    Meanwhile, after Murong Shi walked over and inspected the trash can, she fell silent for a moment before saying, "It''s my fault. I left in such a hurry yesterday that I forgot to tell you about Aunt Lian''s instructions."


    Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly rubbed her nose.


    Sighing, Murong Shi stared at the refrigerator and asked, "Are there still any left?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded.


    "Get me a bowl."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s bowl was an oversized stic container. Thinking that Murong Shi wanted to eat some lychees, Xu Chuanchuan hurried back into her room to grab the bowl she used to eat watermelon from yesterday. However, when she saw the state of the bowl, she couldn''t help but feel a little embarrassed.


    She had yet to clean the bowl, so there was still watermelon juice staining the bowl. Had the air conditioner not been running, it would''ve long since turned rotten.


    Hesitantly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I... I only have this one bowl..."


    However, Murong Shi didn''t seem to mind the dirty bowl as she epted it without hesitation. Then, she turned around and made her way to the bathroom. When she came out and saw Xu Chuanchuan still idly standing in the same spot, she said, "Weren''t you feeling ufortable? Hurry up and take the medicine."


    "Oh"


    Afterward, Murong Shi opened the refrigerator, grabbed a bunch of lychees from inside, and began carefully peeling them one after another. Then, she ced the lychee flesh on the bowl''s cap and tossed the lychee peels into the bowl.


    Puzzled by this scene, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What are you doing?"


    "Drinking water boiled with lychee peels can help relieve fever. I watched Aunt Lian doing this yesterday," Murong Shi said. While peeling the lychees, she snuck a nce at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Why aren''t you taking your temperature yet?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan opened the stic bag, she found that Murong Shi had brought her an electronic thermometer. This was a model she had used before, and it had to be ced either under the armpit or inside the mouth. However, when she thought about how Murong Shi had used this thermometer before, she couldn''t help but hesitate.


    Then, pointing at the thermometer, Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly asked, "How did you use it before?"


    "I put it in my mouth. Do you not know how to use it?"


    "I do, but"


    "What''s the problem, then?"


    "N-Nothing"


    However, despite her words, Xu Chuanchuan still mentally struggled with whether she should use the thermometer or not.


    A momentter, Murong Shi stopped her actions when she noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s worries. Then, with an indifferent expression, she said, "Firstly, you should know that I have bad breath."


    "Uh" <em>I know, but can you not emphasize that at this time?</em>


    Because of Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt her body heating up even more.


    However, regardless of Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts, Murong Shi continued speaking calmly, "Secondly, there''s a bottle of rubbing alcohol inside. You can disinfect the thermometer first before using it."


    After digging further into the stic bag, Xu Chuanchuan found that there was indeed a bottle of rubbing alcohol and a roll of medical cotton inside. While disinfecting the thermometer, she looked at Murong Shi''s expressionless face and hesitated to speak.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi focused on peeling the lychees and paid no attention to Xu Chuanchuan.


    While staring at Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself, <em>Since Murong Shi has used it orally before, there''s no way I can put it under my armpit, much less doing so right in front of Murong Shi herself. Yet, if I put the thermometer into my mouth That would be no different than having an indirect kiss with Murong Shi</em>


    <em>Wait, what am I thinking?! Did the fever damage my brain?!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan wiped the thermometer one time after another as she tried to rid her mind of nonsensical thoughts. Finally, after making sure both the thermometer and her mind were clean, she carefully put the thermometer bulb into her mouth. And as she pressed the bulb under her tongue, she momentarily lost the ability to speak.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan resumed watching Murong Shi peeling lychees in silence.


    Murong Shi had beautiful hands, slender fingers, and round fingernails that gave off a healthy glow. She also had fair skin with nary a strand of hair to be seen even from up close. Murong Shi could probably be a model with this pair of hands alone.


    After seeing Murong Shi''s hands, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but look at her own hands and thinking them as chicken feet.


    The sight of Murong Shi peeling lychees was like a work of art. As Xu Chuanchuan watched Murong Shi peeling the plump lychees one after another, she couldn''t help but fall into a daze.


    After peeling around ten lychees, Murong Shi offhandedly popped a lychee into her mouth. Her eyes narrowed as she chewed on the fruit, making a face that showed she enjoyed it.


    Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently gulped when she saw this sight, and the searing pain when her saliva moved down her sore throat causing her to wince and grit her teeth in pain.


    Murong Shi did not notice Xu Chuanchuan''s abnormality. The next moment, she poked out the tip of her tongue, pushing out a small pit into her palm. When she tossed the pit into the trash can, she finally noticed Xu Chuanchuan staring at her with unblinking eyes.


    Murong Shi''s expression changed briefly at this discovery, but she quickly regained her calm and asked, "Why are you staring at me?"


    Murong Shi''s words instantly brought Xu Chuanchuan back to reality. After shaking her muddled head, Xu Chuanchuan quickly lowered her head to hide her shame.


    However, Murong Shi evidently misunderstood Xu Chuanchuan''s actions as she subsequently said, "You have to endure it even if you want to eat more. At least wait until you get better."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t speak freely with the thermometer in her mouth, so she slowly and vaguely said, "Aih wash jush whondering how mahny youh hhed toh peelh."


    Surprisingly, Murong Shi understood what Xu Chuanchuan said. After taking a look at the lychee peels in the bowl, she said, "That should be enough." Then, she stood up, intending to get the peels cleaned.


    Xu Chuanchuan reflexively stood up as well.


    As luck would have it, Murong Shi turned around at this time, and the two of them nearly crashed into each other once more.


    Unfazed by this situation, Murong Shi asked, "Do you have a pot?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head. Then, suddenly, an idea popped into her mind, and she pointed at the nearby kettle filled with hot water.


    "Use this?" After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "It should be fine, I guess."


    If not for the thermometer in her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan wanted to say, "I can do it myself, so no need to trouble yourself."


    However, Murong Shi walked into the bathroom without taking a second nce at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan quickly followed her and attempted to take what was in Murong Shi''s hands.


    However, Murong Shi unceremoniously moved her hands out of the way. Then, she red at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I''m not stealing anything. Can you stop following me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    After turning on the faucet, Murong Shi added, "Just stay put if you''re sick."


    Xu Chuanchuan dejectedly returned to the living room and sat there, letting her dizzy brain run wild with thoughts.


    <em>Murong Shi came here after work hours began, so nobody should''ve noticed hering up, right?</em> Xu Chuanchuan was rather worried that others would misunderstand her rtionship with Murong Shi. Particrly, after the kissing incident, she felt as if she was walking on thin ice whenever she interacted with Murong Shi.


    <em>Did she abandon her work just toe to take care of me?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know why Murong Shi was suddenly so nice to her. She also wasn''t narcissistic to the point of thinking that Murong Shi held ulterior motives toward her. However, because she couldn''t think of a suitable reason, she couldn''t help but fidget in her seat.


    When Murong Shi came out of the bathroom, her timing was just right as Xu Chuanchuan had also pulled the thermometer out of her mouth. Before Xu Chuanchuan could even check the results, Murong Shi had already snatched the thermometer out of her hand.


    <em>My saliva is still on it</em>


    Murong Shi''s actions appeared very natural, so natural that Xu Chuanchuan momentarily thought the two of them actually shared a good rtionship between them.


    After taking a look at the thermometer''s disy, Murong Shi tly said, "Thirty-eight degrees. Take two pills for now."


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan''s misconceptionsted only for a moment.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought of something puzzling. Then, she asked, "How did you know I was sick?"


    While cing the washed lychee peels into the kettle, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "I called your desk just now to remind you not to eat too many lychees at a time, but someone else picked up the phone instead, and he told me that you were down with a fever and applied for leave.


    Realization dawned on Xu Chuanchuan. After snapping out of her daze, she promptly popped two pills into her hand.


    When Xu Chuanchuan probed the water in the cup, she found that the water was still piping hot. However, she also didn''t have the habit of storing bottled water at home. Suddenly, she recalled the sight of Murong Shi swallowing the pills dry previously, so she tried mimicking her actions and put one of the pills into her mouth.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan had forgotten that she currently had a sore throat, and she could hardly squeeze out any saliva from her mouth right now. After struggling to swallow the pill for some time, the pill eventually got stuck in her throat, unable to go up or down.


    When Murong Shi heard Xu Chuanchuan coughing violently, she came over to take a look and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t speak, and her face turned beet red in no time at all. Then, feeling as if she were dying, she jumped out of the sofa and rushed to the bathroom. Then, she turned on the faucet and quickly scooped up some water to drink, which finally allowed her to swallow the pill.


    When Xu Chuanchuan finished swallowing the second pill, she suddenly heard Murong Shi''s voiceing from behind her, saying, "You''re taking medicine with tap water? Are you insane?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wished for nothing more than to crawl into a hole right now. With a reddened face, she casually lied, "I identally choked just now..."


    Fortunately, Murong Shi did notment on the lie.


    <em>How embarrassing. My intelligence must''ve fallen even lower after catching a fever.</em> Since she was standing in front of the basin, Xu Chuachuan decided to wash her face to cool down.


    By now, Murong Shi had already ced the lychee peels into the boiling water. After wiping the residue water off of her hands, Murong Shi said, "Have a good rest. Remember to drink more hot water, and don''t set the air conditioning too low. Also, make sure not to eat any more lychees for the next few days."


    Xu Chuanchuan listened attentively like a primary school student listening to their teacher. Then, using her hoarse, broken voice, she sincerely said, "Thank you."


    Murong Shi''s expression remained dull as she said, "I''m leaving."


    Xu Chuanchuan stood up to see Murong Shi off.


    However, Murong Shi suddenly turned around and stared at Xu Chuanchuan''s face. After a moment, she said, "I just feel sorry for what I did to you before. I''m not trying to do anything, so don''t get me wrong."


    Xu Chuanchuan finally received the answer to her doubts. However, she also couldn''t help but feel embarrassed when she realized Murong Shi had seen through her thoughts. Fortunately, her fever had prevented Murong Shi from noticing her embarrassment. Lowering her head, Xu Chuanchuan hoarsely said, "I got it."

 Chapter 45: Pt.2

    Chapter 45: Pt.2


    After Murong Shi left, Xu Chuanchuan returned to her room to lie down.


    Probably because of the medicine taking effect, Xu Chuanchuan quickly fell asleep. However, she didn''t manage to have a good sleep as her body constantly perspired because of her fever. Not only did the sweat make it ufortable for her to sleep, but her mind also repeatedly woke her up, telling her to rehydrate her dehydrated body. To make matters worse, her limp body thoroughly refused to listen to any of her brain''smands, which served to worsen her suffering further.


    After wandering in and out of slumbend several times, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly heard knocking soundsing from outside her room. However, try as she might, she couldn''t open her eyes no matter what. So, she decided toy still on her bed and continue ying dead.


    The knocking sounds didn''t continue for very long. Xu Chuanchuan also couldn''t be bothered to think about the matter, so she hugged her nket and resumed sleeping.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan had a dream. In the dream, she heard someone opening the door to her room, followed by the sound of high heels clicking against the floor. As the clicking sound grew louder, a fragrant scent entered Xu Chuanchuan''s nostrils. Then, Xu Chuanchuan sensed someone arriving beside her bed. After a brief pause, this person suddenly bent down and tenderly called her name.


    In the dream, Xu Chuanchuan only responded to the call with a subconscious grunt.


    Immediately afterward, Xu Chuanchuan felt an icy hand sticking to her forehead, measuring her temperature. At the same time, this hand also helped her wipe the sweat formed on her forehead.


    A momentter, the icy hand moved away. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel reluctant when she sensed the cool andfortable feeling disappearing from her forehead. Yet, there was nothing she could do about it as she couldn''t even move her body.


    Also, although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t open her eyes, she could sense a scorching gaze watching her silently the entire time.


    Then, the familiar voice appeared once more, saying, "Xu Chuanchuan, get up and eat something before going back to sleep."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan remained unresponsive.


    Seemingly having lost their patience, the other person reached out and started patting Xu Chuanchuan on the cheeks.


    Unfortunately, even after trying several times, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t bring herself to wake up. Only after her cheeks had started hurting did she manage to pry open her eyes.


    As her sight gradually focused, Xu Chuanchuan saw a person crouching by her bed and staring at her with tranquil eyes.


    When Xu Chuanchuan recognized this person to be Murong Shi, she was immediately taken aback. Then, she struggled to blink her eyes several times, making sure she wasn''t hallucinating and that the person in front of her was indeed Murong Shi.


    <em>So, that wasn''t a dream just now</em>


    Seeing that Xu Chuanchuan was awake, Murong Shi broke the silence, taking the initiative to exin herself, "You didn''t respond even after I knocked for some time, so I used my key to enter."


    Xu Chuanchuan still wasn''t fully awake, so she continued staring at Murong Shi with a stunned look on her face.


    Then, Murong Shi ced the thermos bucket in her hand onto the bedside table and said, "I had Aunt Lian make some porridge for you, so try some of it first. After you''ve eaten, you can retake the medicine."


    First, Murong Shi had brought medicine. Now, she had brought food. For a moment, an indescribable feeling appeared in Xu Chuanchuan''s heart. After oveing her initial surprise, Xu Chuanchuan slowly climbed out of bed. When she took a look at her phone, she was surprised to find that it was already lunchtime. Though, because she had been in bed all morning, she didn''t feel hungry at all.


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan thought of something and asked, "Have you eaten yet?"


    "Not yet. My share is downstairs, so take your time eating," Murong Shi ndly said. Then, she turned around and walked away.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said, "Thank you."


    "Mhm." Without turning back, Murong Shi said, "As I said before, don''t get me wrong."


    "I know I won''t."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth felt dry, and her throat was sore, so she didn''t have much of an appetite. However, that changed as soon as she took a mouthful of Aunt Lian''s porridge. Xu Chuanchuan never thought that lean meat porridge could taste so good. While she wasn''t sure what seasonings Aunt Lian had put into the porridge, it smelled fragrant and tasted delicious.


    After eating the porridge and taking her medicine, Xu Chuanchuan climbed into bed again.


    Around four o''clock in the afternoon, Xu Chuanchuan was finally fully awake. The sweat that previously covered her body had evaporated, and apart from feeling a little fatigued, she was in good spirits. When she retook her temperature, she found that her fever had indeed subsided.


    By now, the water boiled with lychee peels had already cooled down. The color of the water looked strange, and the taste was somewhat bitter. However, while the lychee peel water tasted terrible, it was something Murong Shi personally made. Unable to bring herself to waste Murong Shi''s kindness, Xu Chuanchuan ended up drinking the entire kettle.


    When it was nearing off-work hours, Xu Chuanchuan pondered for some time before deciding to give Murong Shi a call.


    <em>Beep, beep, beep</em>


    The busy tone went on for some time before the other party answered the call. Then, Xu Chuanchuan cleared her throat and said, "My fever has gone down."


    Without speaking nonsense, Murong Shi curtly said, "That''s good."


    "Thank you so much for today."


    "You''re wee."


    "That... The porridge was delicious. Please thank Aunt Lian for me. I will clean and return the thermos to you tomorrow."


    "Mhm."


    After exchanging only a few words, Xu Chuanchuan''s palm holding the phone had already begun sweating out of anxiety. Then, putting down her phone, she breathed out a sigh of relief.


    When Xu Xiangxiang heard that her elder sister was down with a fever, she promptly came over to visit at night.


    While fending off her little sister''s hand, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Stop touching. I''m fine already."


    When Xu Xiangxiang looked at her elder sister''s paleplexion, she sighed and said, "How pitiful of you. But this is what you get for living alone. You don''t even have anybody to take care of you when you''re sick."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to say that Murong Shi had been taking care of her the entire day, so she deliberately changed the topic and said, "There are a lot of lychees in the fridge. Take some back and share it with your roommates."


    "Wah, there''s so many!"


    "Make sure to take more."


    Ever since the kissing incident, Xu Chuanchuan would always move covertly whenever she visited Murong Shi, and this time was no different. After all, Aunt Lian''s thermos bucket wasrge and eye-catching. If she boldly visited Murong Shi''s office with the thermos in hand, passersby were bound to grow curious. And if someone ended up asking her about the thermos, she wouldn''t be able to provide them with a clear answer.


    Ever since Linda went on leave, Murong Shi''s office had be even more deserted. When Xu Chuanchuan entered the office, she couldn''t help but shudder at the chilly air that enveloped her.


    Meanwhile, hearing the noise, Murong Shi set aside her work and looked up. Then, she carefully examined Xu Chuanchuan''s face for a moment before saying, "It seems you''ve made a full recovery."


    Xu Chuanchuan responded with a soft "Mhm" before saying, "I''ve washed the thermos."


    "Set it aside for now."


    After cing the thermos on the coffee table, Xu Chuanchuan snuck a nce at Murong Shi. When she found that the other party remained glued to her seat, she couldn''t help but ask, "Are you still not getting off work?"


    Murong Shi was writing something on a piece of paper. Without even raising her head, she said, "I still have things to do."


    Xu Chuanchuan initially didn''t n to disturb Murong Shi any longer. However, after pondering for a short moment, she asked, "Do you still want that thermometer?"


    Murong Shi stopped writing and looked at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, raising an eyebrow, she asked, "Do you want to keep it as a souvenir?"


    "<em>Cough</em>No." Pretending to look away, Xu Chuanchuan exined, "I forgot to bring it down. I''ll return it to you tomorrow."


    In reality, what Xu Chuanchuan wanted to do was buy a new thermometer and give it to Murong Shi instead of returning the one she used. Only, she forgot to do so because she had been busy with work the entire day.


    However, Murong Shi said, "Nevermind. I rarely have fevers, so I don''t usually use it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>I rarely have fevers, either.</em>


    Now that Murong Shi had already said so, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t find it appropriate to continue on the topic. So, after making a slight bow, she said, "I''ll stop interrupting your work now."


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to step out of the office, she suddenly heard Murong Shi asking, "Can I trouble you to pour me a ss of water?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart skipped a beat. Then, after calming herself, she turned around and answered, "Sure."


    Murong Shi had the habit of frequently drinking coffee, so the mug she used still had some coffee stains. Xu Chuanchuan first brought the mug to the pantry and got it washed. Then, she returned to the office, filled the mug with water, and passed it into Murong Shi''s hand.


    "Thank you," Murong Shi said.


    During the handover, the hands of the two inevitably made physical contact with each other. Because the air conditioner was set to freezing temperatures, Murong Shi''s hand felt cold to the touch. The contrast between hot and cold was evident, and Xu Chuanchuan curled up her fingers out of reflex.


    Standing awkwardly in ce, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is there anything else you need me to do for you?"


    After leisurely taking a sip of water, Murong Shi ignored Xu Chuanchuan''s question and said, "You don''t have to be so nervous. We''re in the office, and people coulde in at any given moment, so I won''t do anything to you here."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t expect Murong Shi to bring up such a topic, so she found herself at a loss on what to say for a moment.


    However, Murong Shi''s following words shocked her even more.


    After wiping off her smudged lipstick with a tissue paper and tossing the tissue paper into the nearby trash can, Murong Shi leisurely said, "I indeed hold some affection for you, but since you''re unwilling to ept me, I won''t insist on the matter."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded. She now started to regret why she didn''t run more quickly before. <em>What should I do?</em>


    No matter how many times Xu Chuanchuan interacted with Murong Shi, she could never see through the other party''s thoughts. Even though Murong Shi always behaved indifferently, why would she keep bringing up these embarrassing topics one time after another?


    Take yesterday, for example. Initially, Xu Chuanchuan only had minor suspicions that Murong Shi''s actions came with ulterior motives and didn''t put too much thought into the matter. Yet, Murong Shi insisted on repeatedly emphasizing to her, saying, "Don''t get me wrong."


    Amidst Xu Chuanchuan''s inner dilemma, Murong Shi was still leisurely drinking water, her elegant appearance making it look as if she was drinking some top-tier coffee.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt very unhappy about this situation. Her interactions with Murong Shi always end in such a manner. Murong Shi would always speak and act in baffling ways while wearing a straight face, while she would end up utterly disconcerted.


    Since she was no match for Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan decided to pretend she never heard Murong Shi speaking. Lowering her gaze, she respectfully said, "I''ll take my leave now."


    Despite spending only a short period in Murong Shi''s presence, Xu Chuanchuan felt so nervous that her palms were sweating, and her heartbeat had elerated. She wasn''t sure what other shocking words Murong Shi would say if she continued remaining in the office, so she quickly fled the room.


    <em>If I can''t hear her or see her, my mind won''t be in a mess.</em>

 Chapter 46: Pt.1

    Chapter 46: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan intended to follow the trend and use the entertainment circle as the theme for her new novel. But, of course, the novel''s primary genre would remain as sweet romance, which was the genre she was most proficient at.


    Xu Chuanchuan had never worshipped any celebrities before, and neither had she read novels of this genre, so she wasn''t sure whether she could write well. To make sure she did her best, though, she decided to buy a few novels rted to the entertainment circle for research.


    Xu Chuanchuan would always conduct a lot of preliminary work before starting a new novel, andpleting these preparations took a lot of time. Meanwhile, afraid that her readers would forget her because of her long absence, she would interact with the readers in her reader group every day.


    Once, she identally caught a glimpse of Passerby Shi''s avatar in her QQ messenger''s conversation list. Taking a closer look at the text beside the avatar, she found that their most recent chat history was a week ago.


    That was when Xu Chuanchuan took the initiative to message Passerby Shi, notifying the other party that she had already sent out the physical book of hertestpleted work.


    However, Passerby Shi had never replied to that message. There was also the possibility that Passerby Shi had never seen the message, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder if the other party had received the book or not.


    Writing novels was a lonely task. Whencking inspiration, Xu Chuanchuna would often feel lonely and helpless. Fortunately, she had Ange offeringpany.


    It had already be a habit for Xu Chuanchuan to chat with Ange whenever she had nothing better to do. Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to show Ange the finalized title and general plotline of her new novel, Ange coincidentally struck up a conversation with her.


    Ange: "Dammit, I want to fall in love."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Uh, did something trigger you?"


    Ange: "I went out to eat hot pot by myself just now and left for the toilet part way through. The waiter ended up clearing the table while I was gone! How infuriating!"


    Upon reading Ange''s message, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but recall a simr experience at a KFC restaurant. However, she had acted more wisely than Ange as she had notified the restaurant staff ahead of time.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You should''ve notified the waiter."


    Ange: "Why? Do you think I''m that shameless?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Fine, I''m shameless.</em>


    Ange: "If I knew this would happen, I should''ve brought Ritian together with me."[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Who''s Ritian?"


    Ange: "My poodle. Have I never told you about it before?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No..."


    Ange: "Oh. I probably had amnesia from writing too much."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You can''t bring dogs into restaurants."


    Ange: "I''m so mad! I didn''t even get to have my fill! I even had to order takeaway."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t be mad, don''t be mad. Here, have some head pats. So, is that why you want to fall in love?"


    Ange: "Honestly, it''s not necessary to fall in love. It''s just that I sometimes feel sad when I think about it. I''ve been a full-time writer for so many years that I think I''m starting to lose touch with reality. I also discovered that I don''t have any friends I can call on to share a hot pot with me. Everyone is either busy being in love or busy at work. "


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Actually, I''m the same as you..."


    Ange: "What should we do?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What should we do indeed...[Sigh]"


    Ange: "My heart''s tired. I n to give myself a long vacation after finishing this book. Would you like to join me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I want to, but where would I find the conditions to do so? I still need to go to work unless it''s ''11'' or the new years."[2]


    Ange: "''11'' is fine as well. I think I''ll need to write another two million works toplete this book. I should finish around that time. I''ll go find you by then."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you serious?"


    Ange: "Of course. We''ve known each other for six years. Isn''t it about time we met face to face? Tang''er, I''m looking forward to seeing you~"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ll die if I go into the light. [Shy]"


    Ange: "It''s okay. Let''s die together."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "o()o"


    Ange: "I might even get to see the rumored She-Devil who''s been torturing you all this time."


    The "She-Devil" here undoubtedly referred to Murong Shi. When Xu Chuanchuan thought about Murong Shi, she couldn''t help but have a strange feeling in her heart, and even her typing speed had slowed down.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Why do you want to see her?"


    Ange: "I want to question her why she''s bullying my Tang''er."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t mess around..."


    Ange: "By the way, I haven''t heard you talking about her recently."


    Because Murong Shi was no longer "bullying" her...


    Ever since Murong Shiid out all of her cards on the table, Xu Chuanchuan had stopped interacting with Murong Shi. Murong Shi also stopped summoning her, and her days seemed to have returned to normal.


    Although the asional idental encounters still felt awkward, Xu Chuanchuan thought she was the only one finding these encounters ufortable because Murong Shi treated her like a transparent object. Murong Shi would circle her and walk away before Xu Chuanchuan even had the time to greet her.


    It might be fine if the two of them met alone since there wouldn''t be a third party present to see their awkward encounter. However, there was one time when thepany''s management had just finished their regr meeting. When the management personnel emerged from the conference room, Xu Chuanchuan just so happened to be walking through the corridor.


    The Engineering Department''s manager was also present among the group, and he instantly recognized Xu Chuanchuan. Pointing at her, he said, "Little Xu,e here for a moment."


    Xu Chuanchuan went over with her head in the clouds. When she noticed that her department chief was standing together with Murong Shi, her smile stiffened as she asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "Miss Murong is unsatisfied with the product shots takenst time. She feels that the color tone is too dark. Take her to the photography room and show her how you normally photograph the products."


    "Okay..." Xu Chuanchuan replied somewhat vacantly.


    While Xu Chuanchuan had her head lowered, she suddenly heard Murong Shi indifferently saying, "Can you find another person to show me?"


    Murong Shi might''ve worded her sentence like a question, but her tone made her words sound like amand.


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''s words, both the Engineering Department''s manager and Xu Chuanchuan were momentarily stunned.


    Then, the department manager hurriedly exined, "Little Xu is usually in charge of these photographs. She knows the details the best."


    In an annoyed tone, Murong Shi said, "Either you find another person to guide me, or you guide me yourself."


    The department manager nced back and forth between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi for a moment. Then, he awkwardly said, "L-Let me, then..."


    Even after everyone else had left, Xu Chuanchuan remained standing in ce with a dumbfounded expression.


    Murong Shi had acted too explicitly, so much so that even other people could notice her abnormal behavior. Half an hourter, the Engineering Department''s manager returned to the office and secretly asked Xu Chuanchuan, "Little Xu, did you offend Miss Murong in any way?"


    "No? How would I dare offend her?" Xu Chuanchuan said, shaking her head.


    After taking a long look at Xu Chuanchuan, the department chief said, "I guess you''re right. If she has any criticisms about you, she would''ve already told me about them just now. Okay, continue with your work."


    After the department chief left, Xu Chuanchuan''s mind began to wander.


    Xu Chuanchuan understood that Murong Shi was trying to set a clear boundary between them.


    Logically, Xu Chuanchuan should be feeling happy now that Murong Shi had stopped harassing her. However, that wasn''t the case in reality.


    Not only did Xu Chuanchuan not feel relieved, but she even felt flustered over the matter. She felt that things were progressing too rapidly. From Murong Shi forcibly kissing her, to teasing her, to drawing a line with her, everything had happened in less than a week. There was no buffer between these events, and Xu Chuanchuan had a feeling as if she had just stumbled on empty air.


    Xu Chuanchuan was the one who curtly told Murong Shi, "I''m sorry, but I''m not interested in women."


    Hence, Xu Chuanchuan had no qualifications to ask Murong Shi to take care of her feelings.


    Murong Shi had handled this matter decisively, and Xu Chuanchuan knew she shouldn''t be hypocritical.


    ...


    The weather was getting hotter and hotter recently. After eating the lychees Aunt Lian gave herst time, Xu Xiangxiang had be infatuated with them. So, she invited her elder sister to visit a suburban lychee farm on the weekend, only to receive rejection as an answer.


    Xu Chuanchuan preferred staying in her air-conditioned dormitory than go out and bask in the sun.


    As Xu Chuanchuan had nothing better to do in the dormitory, she daringly ordered some watermelon to be delivered. However, after the diarrhea incident, she no longer dared to freeze the watermelon.


    With a box of diced watermelon in hand and a variety show ying on the PC in front of her, Xu Chuanchuan had everything necessary to waste her day away. As soon as she sat down on her chair, though, she suddenly heard the sound of a door openinging from outside.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew suspicious upon hearing this sound.


    <em>Is Linda back? That shouldn''t be right. Even if she''s going to return, she shouldn''t be returning on the weekend.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately thought of Murong Shi. After setting the box of diced watermelon aside, Xu Chuanchuan gently approached the door and opened a small gap to peek through.


    Immediately, the familiar sound of high heels clicking against the floor entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears. Then, a tall figure came into view. Who else could it be but Murong Shi?


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tightened. She initially nned to close the door and pretend she didn''t see anything. However, just as she was about to close the door, she saw someone walking into the house after Murong Shi. This person was a girl with long hair and bangs, pale skin, and immature facial features.


    After entering the house, the girl happily yelled, "This ce is so big! It''s also so clean!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." Could someone tell her what was going on?"


    "Shh" Murong Shi patted the girl''s head. "Be quiet. Your future roommate might be resting."


    "I forgot," the girl said, sticking out her tongue. Then, she asked, "Is this volume okay?"


    Amidst their conversation, Murong Shi subconsciously looked toward Xu Chuanchuan''s room. Unfortunately, it was already toote for Xu Chuanchuan to withdraw her peeping gaze, so she was caught red-handed.


    "Xu Chuanchuan."


    TL Notes:


    [1]Ritian: (r tin) This trantes to Heaven Fucker/Fuck Heaven in Chinese inte ng.


    [2]11: This is referring to 11-11(November 11th)/ Singles'' Day. Singles'' Day is an unofficial holiday in China.

 Chapter 46: Pt.2

    Chapter 46: Pt.2


    "Xu Chuanchuan."


    Sure enough, she got discovered.


    Surrendering herself to fate, Xu Chuanchuan opened the door and pretended to be calm as she walked out of her room. When she looked at the two people before her, though, she wasn''t sure how she should entertain them. "You two are"


    "She''s Little Yan, your new roommate," Murong Shi said to Xu Chuanchuan as she pointed at the girl beside her. Then, she pointed at Xu Chuanchuan and continued, "She''s Xu Chuanchuan, the person I told you about."


    After hearing Murong Shi''s introduction, Little Yan''s eyes curved into a smile as she crisply said, "Hello, Big Sister! Please take care of me in the future!"


    "Hello," Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly greeted. Then, she turned to Murong Shi with a confused look on her face, "Thenwhat about Linda?"


    "Linda''s father is severely ill, so she won''t be able to return within a short period. Little Yan will be taking Linda''s ce in the meantime. She''ll also be staying in the room beside yours."


    "I see." Xu Chuanchuan smiled.


    <em>In other words, Little Yan is Murong Shi''s new assistant? But she looks so young. She also has such a pure smile. No matter how I look at her, she doesn''t seem to be the same type of person as Linda.</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head, she noticed that Little Yan was carrying a suitcase in her hand. This meant that Little Yan would be moving in today. However, what confused Xu Chuanchuan was that Little Yan was merely an assistant, so was there a need for Murong Shi to guide her to the dorm personally?


    What was even stranger was Murong Shi''s words to Little Yan. "Can you handle everything by yourself? Do you need my help?"


    "No, no, I can do it myself," Little Yan said, refusing to let Murong Shi help her carry her suitcase. She even pushed Murong Shi aside.


    However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Murong Shi did not get angry at this action at all.


    This situation confused Xu Chuanchuan even further, and she couldn''t help but wonder who exactly was the assistant between the two of them.


    However, since Little Yan would be her new roommate, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she should express her friendliness. So, she asked, "Do you need my help?"


    In response, Little Yan put on a bright smile and said, "Not right now, but I might need it in the future. We can help each other in the future, Big Sister."


    Although Little Yan still had some baby fat on her face, her facial features were quite excellent, and she should be a beautiful woman given another few years. Responding with a smile of her own, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Sure. Also, you can call me by my name."


    Hearing Little Yan call her "Big Sister" one time after another made Xu Chuanchuan suddenly have the urge to roll up her sleeves and help Little Yan unpack her luggage.


    Then, Little Yan blinked her eyes yfully and asked, "In that case, can I call you Chuanchuan?"


    "Up to you."


    Afterward, Little Yan turned to Murong Shi, whom they had cast aside, and said, "I''ll get along well with Chuanchuan, so you can go back now."


    <em>The assistant is urging her boss to leave? What''s up with this situation? </em>Xu Chuanchuan grew increasingly confused by the interaction between Little Yan and Murong Shi.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi revealed a helpless look as she said, "Okay, I''ll go."


    Before leaving, though, Murong Shi dragged Little Yan into the room next door to Xu Chuanchuan''s and shut the door, seemingly intending to talk about something secret with Little Yan. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan returned to her room after seeing that there was nothing she had to do.


    Sometimeter, Xu Chuanchuan heard the sound of the main entrance being opened and closed. Then, after verifying that Murong Shi had left, she left her room with the box of diced watermelon in hand. Coincidentally, she came across Little Yan in the living room, so she asked, "Do you want some watermelon?"


    Smiling in response, Little Yan said, "Thank you, but we just had lunch. You can eat it yourself."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not insist on the matter. Just when she was about to return to her room, though, Little Yan suddenly called out to her, "Chuanchuan, do you have a rag? There''s a lot of dust in my room, so I want to wipe it clean first."


    "I do. It''s hanging in the bathroom, the blue one."


    "Okay, thank you."


    Linda only used the room next door as a ce for afternoon naps. Apart from a mattress, a thin nket, and a pillow, the room had no other objects within it, so it shouldn''t be too difficult to clean it.


    An hourter, Little Yan knocked on Xu Chuanchuan''s door, notifying thetter that she finished cleaning her room. Then, she asked, "I''m going to the supermarket to buy some daily necessities. Do you want me to grab anything for you?"


    Unlike Linda, who gave Xu Chuanchuan the cold shoulder, Little Yan was overly enthusiastic, so Xu Chuanchuan found it hard to adapt to the change for a moment.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan did not find Little Yan to be annoying since the other party had excellent looks. On the contrary, she found herself liking the cheerful girl a lot. After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "How about you give me a minute? I''ll change my clothes and go with you."


    Little Yan readily said yes to Xu Chuanchuan''s offer.


    Shopping was a simple way to promote the friendship between two women quickly. No matter how long Little Yan nned on staying, Xu Chuanchuan did not hope to see her rtionship with the girl developing simrly to her rtionship with Linda, where the two of them treated each other like strangers despite living under the same roof.


    Little Yan bought a lot of things during their shopping trip. Xu Chuanchuan also found that the girl wasn''t one to nitpick, buying whatever was the most expensive. Then, Xu Chuanchuan took a look at the set of branded clothing Little Yan wore and thought to herself, <em>This girl''s family should be pretty wealthy.</em>


    No matter how beautiful a person looked, when faced with a burden she couldn''t bear, the miserable look they made would cover up all of their beauty.


    "How heavy. I shouldn''t have bought so many things in one trip," Little Yanined while standing on the roadside, sweating and panting. In her hands, she held multiplerge shopping bags.


    Xu Chuanchuan had already helped Little Yan share half of the weight. She was also responsible for holding the umbre for the two of them. However, when she saw the girl''s pale lips, she offered, "Why don''t you hold the umbre? I''ll carry the bags for you."


    "You don''t have to do that."


    "It''s fine. I can still walk faster than you even if I''m carrying the bags," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she weighed the bags she currently held and added, "I don''t think these are heavy at all, so give yours to me. The sooner we return home, the sooner we can enjoy the air conditioning there."


    Little Yan hesitated for a moment before handing over the other half of her bags to Xu Chuanchuan and receiving the umbre in return.


    "Let''s go," Xu Chuanchuan said as she effortlessly lifted the bags.


    Little Yan blushed at this sight. Then, in a timid tone, she asked, "Chuanchuan, do you think I''m too fragile?"


    Xu Chuanchuan indeed thought as such in her heart. However, considering that they had just gotten acquainted recently, she felt that she should show the other party some respect. "You''re alright. I still have a little sister who''s even worse than you."


    "You have a little sister?"


    "Yes, her name is Xu Xiangxiang, and she would sometimes visit me when she''s bored."


    Little Yan''s eyes glowed when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. "Chuanchuan and Xiangxiang? Haha, chuanchuanxiang? Your names are so interesting."[1]


    A hint of embarrassment appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face. "My mom is from Sichuan, and she likes to eat chuanchuanxiang, so she gave us two sisters such names."


    "I only heard about chuanchuanxiang before. Is it delicious?"


    "My mom prepares it quite well. I''ll treat you to it if the opportunity arises." If you haven''t left when that timees


    "Okay, okay!"


    ...


    Perhaps because Xu Chuanchuan had Linda to use as a reference, the first day she spent with her new roommate felt quite lovely, in her opinion.


    Unfortunately, while Xu Chuanchuan felt that Little Yan was a pure and simple girl, when she was having lunch with her colleagues the next day, she overheard some gossip about Little Yan.


    Did you guys see Miss Murong''s new assistant?


    I did. I think she''s called Little Yan. I don''t know what her full name is, though. From what I heard, she still hasn''t reported herself to HR.


    She looks very young. Is she even an adult?


    I think she''s young as well. Can such a little girl withstand Miss Murong''s torturing?


    Even Linda has been brutally criticized by Miss Murong during her trial period. I dare say that this girl will run away before her trial period is even over.


    I don''t think so. When I went to the washroom today, I saw Miss Murongbing that girl''s hair. She seems to be paying extra care to the girl. Could that girl have a strong background?


    What background? Could she be Miss Murong''s little sister? I never heard of it. Also, they don''t look alike at all.


    All rumors had an origin. When Xu Chuanchuan recalled Murong Shi''s words and deeds when she dropped off Little Yan at the dormitory yesterday, she couldn''t help but find the rtionship between the two of them to be strange.


    After finishing lunch with her colleagues, Xu Chuanchuan still had some time before lunch break ended, so she decided to return to the dorm.


    When Xu Chuanchuan opened the door to the dormitory, she gave a scare to the two people fooling around on the living room sofa.


    Little Yan, who had been lying on Murong Shi''s back, got so frightened that she nearly rolled off the sofa. Fortunately, Murong Shi reacted quickly and grabbed the girl''s hand, preventing her fall.


    Then, Little Yan quickly sat up, straightened her wrinkled shirt, looked at Xu Chuanchuan, who currently stood dumbfounded by the entrance, and stammered as she exined, "I... She... Miss Murong came to see if I finished tidying up my room..."


    Xu Chuanchuan first looked at Murong Shi, who remained as calm andposed as ever. She then looked at Little Yan''s flustered expression. When she linked these two together, she suddenly recalled the gossip she heard during lunch.


    No matter how Xu Chuanchuan looked at it, Little Yan''s reaction expressed a guilty conscience. The exnation the girl gave also sounded like an excuse to hide something.


    Xu Chuanchuan found this situation to be quite awkward. Seeing that Little Yan was feeling embarrassed as well, Xu Chuanchuan feigned calmness and said, "Okay."


    Their encounter was aplete ident, and Xu Chuanchuan dared not think too deeply into the matter. That was until nighttime arrived, and she suddenly heard strange soundsing from next door while she was writing her new novel.


    First, the sounds consisted of a series of joyfulughter, sounding like someone was fooling around next door. Next, theughter turned into painful howls. Finally, the howls turned into ambiguous moans...


    Xu Chuanchuan stuffed her ears with a pair of earphones and yed some music. Initially, she thought the earphones weren''t working properly, as she could still hear the moans over the music. However, when she took off the earphones and listened carefully, she realized it was because the moans had be even more pronounced.


    "AhNo more, no more"


    Xu Chuanchuan discerned that the voice belonged to Little Yan.


    "Be quiet. Don''t disturb others."


    The second voice belonged to Murong Shi.


    After Murong Shi''s voice disappeared, the ambiguous sounds restarted once more. This time, Little Yan''s crisp voice became more subdued, but the emotions carried within her voice also became more prominent.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly put on her earphones again and further amplified the volume. When she finally stopped hearing the soundsing from her neighbor, she breathed out a long sigh of relief and continued with her work.


    However, several minutester, Xu Chuanchuan started hearing the sound of the wall being struck. The knocking sounds were rhythmic, and she couldn''t help but link it to the dormitory''s solid wooden bed frame knocking against the wall...


    Although Xu Chuanchuan tried not to overthink the situation, her face still turned red from embarrassment. She felt that she couldn''t continue staying in her room, so she removed her earphones and ran to the bathroom.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan knew that Little Yan hade home already. Only, she had been busy writing at the time, so she didn''t go out to greet the girl. However, she didn''t expect Murong Shi to follow Little Yan back as well, much less expect them to...


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan recalled the intimate fight she came across this afternoon. Back then, she had already returned to the room after the awkward encounter. However, when she remembered that she hadn''t used the toilet yet, she left her room and coincidentally overheard Little Yan softly saying, "I''m afraid of Chuanchuan finding out."


    In response, Murong Shi quietly said, "It doesn''t matter even if she finds out."


    "But I still don''t want to" Before Little Yan could finish her words, her eyes caught sight of Xu Chuanchuan, and panic appeared on her face again.


    Now that Xu Chuanchuan thought about this scene, she guessed that Murong Shi and Little Yan probably shared a secret that they were afraid of her finding out. Or, at least, Little Yan was worried.


    And after including the fact that Xu Chuanchuan was the only person who knew that Murong Shi liked women...


    Amidst her daze, someone suddenly barged into the bathroom. When Xu Chuanchuan looked up and found herself staring face-to-face with Murong Shi, she was so surprised that she even forgot to react momentarily.


    In contrast, Murong Shi remained unfazed. Then, she boldly walked into the bathroom and said, "I''m here to wash my hands."


    While Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t sure if she was hallucinating, when Murong Shi moved closer to her, she smelled a strange smell... Then, she subconsciously looked toward Murong Shi''s hands, noticing that they appeared greasy and slippery as if they were stained with some liquid.


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled the weird sounds she heard from her room, she suddenly found herself feeling terrible. Then, she tried to flee the bathroom in a hurry, only to nearly bump into Little Yan, who happened to be entering the bathroom as well.


    "Ah, Chuanchuan! D-Did we disturb you just now?"


    Little Yan''s slightly immature face was covered in sweat, her cheeks were flushed, and her body gave off the same strange smell as Murong Shi... Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan noticed that Little Yan''s walking posture looked slightly awkward...


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mind heated up and began buzzing incessantly. Then, lowering her head, she said, "It''s a little too crowded. You two go ahead first."


    After returning to her room, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t calm down no matter what as she seemed to have discovered an amazing secret.


    When Xu Chuanchuan linked Little Yan''s strange movements with the peculiar sounds from before Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had a bold guess.


    <em>Could Little Yan be Murong Shi''s new girlfriend?</em>


    TL Notes:


    [1]chuanchuanxiang: (chun chun xing) meaning something like skewered food is a sort of remix of the ssic hot pot theme. Unlike traditional hotpot, however, the ingredients of chuan chuan are skewered on sticks and then ced in the boiling oil within a y or iron pot, making it more convenient to pick up the food after it is cooked in the pot.


    Image link:


    https://bit.ly/3buBItC

 Chapter 47: Pt.1

    Chapter 47: Pt.1


    Unless under pressure, Xu Chuanchuan rarely dreamed when she slept. And even if she experienced a dream, she would hardly remember the dream''s details when she woke up. Yet, despite her work and life going smoothly recently, she ended up having a nightmare this night.


    She dreamt of a masked person pushing her down on the bed andshing at her with a whip. Then, when she struggled to break free from her assant, the other person leaned into her ear and viciously asked, "Do you dare eavesdrop again?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was enraged at being attacked. Then, taking advantage of her assant''s briefpse of attention, she pulled off the other party''s mask, revealing a near-perfect and familiar face. Upon seeing this familiar face, Xu Chuanchuan cried out in horror, "It''s you?!"


    A mischievous smile appeared on the other party''s face. Then, her assant ambiguously said, "Oh, I got found out?"


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan woke up from fright.


    Xu Chuanchuan shivered at the cold that suddenly assaulted her body. She also found that her nose was blocked as if she was about to catch a cold. When she turned on the lights, she found that she had kicked her nket off the bed amidst her sleep.


    After cing the nket back onto the bed, she made her way to the bathroom. While washing her hand, she looked at her miserable expression in the mirror and murmured, "I must be going insane."


    She had dreamt of Murong Shi whipping her. If she wasn''t going insane, what other exnation could she give for this situation?


    When morning arrived, Xu Chuanchuan made her way to the bathroom once more with two dark circles under her eyes. In the bathroom, she came across Little Yan, who had simrly just woke up.


    "Morning, Chuanchuna," Little Yan greeted with her usual enthusiasm, behaving as if none of the awkwardness yesterday had ever happened.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at the other party''s face andpared it to her own, she found that there was noparison to be made. Little Yan''s skin was pale with hints of red, and her eyes looked clear and bright. In contrast, Xu Chuanchuan looked no different than a zombie.


    Turning away awkwardly, Xu Chuanchuan responded, "Morning. It seems you slept wellst night."


    "That''s right! Exercising before bed has improved my sleep quality tremendously," Little Yan said with a bright smile.


    <em>Exer...cising?</em>


    Xu Chuanchaun knew that she shouldn''t overthink things, so she wore a nk expression as she mindlessly squeezed toothpaste onto her toothbrush.


    Then, Little Yan leaned closer to look at Xu Chuanchuan''s expression and asked, "Did you not sleep wellst night?"


    After stuffing the toothbrush into her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan replied with a vague "mhm."


    A momentter, Little Yan suddenly blushed, and she whispered, "By the way, please don''t tell anyone about Miss Murong''s visitst night."


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked when she heard Little Yan''s request. Then, she inwardly thought, <em>If you moan any louder, the whole floor will find out even if I don''t say anything.</em>


    As an outsider, Xu Chuanchuan naturally couldn''t bring herself to tell others about such an embarrassing matter. So, she nodded to Little Yan''s request without hesitation, though a strange feeling appeared in her heart when she recalled yesterday''s events.


    <em>If Little Yan really is Murong Shi''s new girlfriend, couldn''t the two of them find a more private ce when they''re trying to be intimate with each other? Can''t they be considerate of the person living next door?</em>


    Murong Shi had just confessed to Xu Chuanchuanst week, telling Xu Chuanchuan that she held affection for her. Yet, in the blink of an eye, Murong Shi had found a girl much younger and cuter than her. Xu Chuanchuan even had a creeping suspicion that Murong Shi deliberately did all those intimate actions with Little Yan to spite her.


    <em>Let''s hope I''m just overthinking things.</em>


    When lunch break arrived, the time of gossip arrived once more. Chen Lina leaned into Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Little Xu, do you know if that Little Yan is rted to Miss Murong in some way?"


    "I don''t know," Xu Chuanchuan answered with a guilty conscience.


    "You''re living together with her, so how can you not know?" Chen Lina asked skeptically.


    "I never asked I don''t know," Xu Chuanchuan mumbled.


    Knowing too much wasn''t necessarily a good thing. Take the nightmare she hadst night, for example.


    Unfortunately, although Xu Chuanchuan was doing her best to get the matter between Little Yan and Murong Shi out of her mind, fate did not allow her to do as she wished.


    The next night, when Xu Chuanchuan was writing her novel, she heard strange noisesing from next door once more. Upon hearing these sounds, she immediately lost all mood to continue writing.


    It wasn''t even nine o''clock right now. Apart from the soundsing from next door, her surrounding environment was rtively quiet. Hence, even though Xu Chuanchuan had put on her earphones, she still ended up getting affected by the noisesing through the wall. And although she tried increasing the music''s volume one time after another, she was incapable of calming her mood down no matter what.


    Eventually, she gave up writingpletely and turned off herputer. Then, she grabbed her phone and keys and left her room.


    As Xu Chuanchuan was a little absent-minded at the moment, she ended up using a little too much strength when closing the main entrance''s door. While the sound might''ve disturbed the two people inside the house, she couldn''t care less about that right now.


    After leaving the air-conditioned dormitory, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her body heating up. She had long since gotten used to living by herself, so she normally wouldn''t leave her house at night for fear ofing across people with ill intentions. And even if she didn''t meet such people,ing across rats or beggars was still more than enough to sour her mood.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan felt a little impulsive tonight, so she didn''t put too much thought into her safety. After walking aimlessly under the street lights for some time, she ended up arriving in front of the supermarket she previously visited with Little Yan.


    To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, the supermarket''s business at night was booming. There were even children ying on the kiddie rides set up outside the supermarket. As Xu Chuanchuan listened to the childish musicing from these kiddie rides, her irritable mood gradually settled.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan went inside the supermarket to buy a bunch of fruits and snacks. Before paying, she saw her favorite ice cream disyed in the refrigerator next to the checkout counter, so she grabbed herself a cup on the way out.


    The entire shopping tripsted no more than ten minutes. Xu Chuanchuan was worried that the people at home still wouldn''t be done with their "exercise" if she returned so soon, so she opened the cup of ice cream and sat on the lounge chair ced near the kiddie rides.


    When a little boy ying on the kiddie rides saw the ice cream she held, he inadvertently drooled. If not for the kiddie ride still shaking about, the boy would''ve probably climbed down and rushed toward her.


    The boy''s mother eventually noticed her child''s gaze. Then, she warned her son, "That''s too cold for you. You''ll get a stomach ache if you eat that."


    The boy put on an expression like he was about to cry.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that it would be cruel for her to continue sitting here and eating her ice cream, so she decided to avoid the children''s ardent gazes and move to another spot. But as soon as she stepped away from her seat, a ck car stopped in front of her, blocking her way.


    If it were any normal car, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve circled it and continued on her way. However, she recognized the ck car in front of her. This ck Maserati Quattroporte was of the exact same color and model as Murong Shi''s car.


    Amidst her daze, the car''s window came down. Then, Xu Chuanchaun saw Murong Shi inside the car. Upon closer observation, she also found that Murong Shi was by herself.


    <em>Little Yan is...probably tired.</em>


    For a time, Xu Chuanchuan found the situation too awkward to speak up.


    Then, Murong Shi took the initiative to speak first, saying, "Little Yan wanted to have supper with you. I didn''t think you would leave the house at such an hour."


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan responded, "I don''t usually eat supper."


    "What are you eating now, then?" Murong Shi asked as she pointed her chin at the ice cream in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could figure out what Murong Shi was trying to get at, she saw Murong Shi getting out of the car and standing right in front of her.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Staring at the ice cream in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, Murong Shi asked, "What is this vor?"


    After taking a nce at the ice cream cup, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "Blueberry."


    "Is it good?"


    "It''s a little sweet...but I quite like it... Do you want to try it?"


    "I''m not eating, but Little Yan might like it," Murong Shi tly responded.


    "Oh."


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi said, "I''ll buy one for her. Can you bring it back to her for me?"


    "Okay," Xu Chuanchuan responded, a hint of reluctance in her tone. Normally, Xu Chuanchuan would be more than happy to help out with such a simple request. This time, though, she found herself unable to readily agree to Murong Shi''s request.


    Meanwhile, after getting a positive response, Murong Shi promptly ditched Xu Chuanchuan and walked to the supermarket.


    The refrigerator storing the ice cream was located beside the checkout counter. However, as many people were waiting to make payment, Xu Chuanchuan had to wait quite a few minutes before Murong Shi returned. Then, Murong Shi handed a stic bag to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Sorry to keep you waiting for so long."


    When Xu Chuanchuan epted the bag, she noticed that it was strangely heavy. After taking a look into the bag, she asked, "Why did you buy so many?"


    "Since the two of you like it, you might as well stock some up in the fridge for convenience''s sake," Murong Shi nonchntly said.


    As Murong Shi had said "the two of you," it probably meant that she also included Xu Chuanchuan''s share in the bag. Finding it awkward that she had somehow profited without doing anything, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Give these to Little Yan. I''lle out and buy my own if I want to eat some."


    "It''s just a few cups of ice cream; they don''t cost much money. Not to mention, it''s dangerous for a girl like yourself to go out at night alone," Murong Shi said. Although she spoke in a light tone, she wore themanding expression she typically used at work. This meant that she wouldn''t take no for an answer. "Little Yan is young and ignorant when ites to life. I might have to trouble you to take care of her in the future."


    Sure enough, there were no free ice creams in this world. Xu Chuanchuan instantly felt the weight of the stic bag bing unbearable. Then, after pondering for a short moment, she said, "You seem to be very considerate of Little Yan."


    Revealing a light smile, Murong Shi said, "She''s still young, after all."


    Xu Chuanchuan had already gotten used to seeing Murong Shi''s cold and contemptuous smiles. However, this was the first time she had seen Murong Shi making such a gentle and doting smile, and she couldn''t help but have mixed feelings about this. Suddenly, she said in a bitter tone, "There''s a question that''s been constantly bugging me."


    "What is it?"


    Although Xu Chuanchuan repeatedly told herself not to pry into others'' matters, she still couldn''t help herself from doing so. Then, looking at Murong Shi''s emotionless eyes, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is Little Yan an adult yet?"


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi answered, "She turned eighteenst month. Why?"


    <em>Sure enough, she''s still a child.</em>


    The sugar in Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth gradually dissolved. Then, after swallowing the saliva that had pooled in her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Nothing, I was just curious. Well, it''s gettingte, so I''ll be heading back first."


    However, before Xu Chuanchuan could walk away, Murong Shi stepped forward and blocked her.


    Xu Chuanchuan was very surprised by this situation.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi lowered her head, her dark and slender eyes looking intently at the shorter woman''s face. Then, she said, "Have you noticed that you have a habit?"


    "What?"


    Murong Shi pointed at Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes. Then, while swaying her finger from side to side, she leisurely said, "Your eyes will look away whenever you lie. Depending on your anxiety levels, you''ll even be cross-eyed."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression froze, and her tongue stiffened. "W-When did I ever lie?"


    "Just now. The first time I noticed this habit was when I called you to my office and asked whether you''ve been badmouthing me behind my back. You showed this reaction back then."


    <em>Isn''t this person''s memory and observation skills a little too good? </em>Xu Chuanchuan truly did not know how she should refute Murong Shi''s words. Breathing out a heavy sigh, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Alright, fine. I wasn''t just asking casually."


    Maintaining a calmposure, Murong Shi asked, "What are you trying to say, then?"


    In this tense moment, Xu Chuanchuan needed to eat some ice cream to calm herself.


    There wasn''t much ice cream left in the cup. After scooping everything with the spoon, Xu Chuanchuan stuffed it into her mouth. Then, while enduring the coldness, she quickly chewed and swallowed the ice cream.


    Murong Shi rolled her eyes at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she said, "There''s still a bit left on the spoon. Do you want to lick it clean first?"


    Xu Chuanchuan disliked wasting food, so she naturally wanted to lick the spoon clean. However, there was no way she could bring herself to do so in front of Murong Shi''s face.


    After storing the empty cup away, Xu Chuanchuan wiggled her frozen tongue a little. Then, she took a deep breath and said, "I think Little Yan is still quite delicate. Although she''s an adult now, some things should still be done in moderation."


    "Do what in moderation?" Murong Shi asked, tilting her head. She also wore an expression that practically said, "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Moreover, based on how calm her eyes were, it didn''t seem like she was pretending.


    Xu Chuanchuan started regretting running her mouth. After all was said and done, this was someone else''s private affair. What qualifications did she have to express her opinion on this matter?"


    Faking a cough, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Nevermind. Just pretend as if I was spouting gibberish."


    "Xu Chuanchuan, are you overthinking things again?" Murong Shi asked, narrowing her eyes.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly turned her head away and said, "No. I''m going home."

 Chapter 47: Pt.2

    Chapter 47: Pt.2


    When Xu Chuanchuan thought about how she had to face Little Yan after returning home, her heart turned into a mess once more.


    Fortunately, Little Yan was taking a shower when Xu Chuanchuan returned, so this allowed Xu Chuanchuan to avoid a face-to-face encounter.


    Xu Chuanchuan first ced the ice cream into the refrigerator. Then, she approached the bathroom and stood outside the door, saying, "Little Yan, Miss Murong bought ice cream for you. I''ll put it in the fridge."


    The sound of water hitting the ground softened for a moment. Then, Little Yan''s voice came out of the bathroom, saying, "Okay, I got it. Thank you."


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief and snuck back to her room. However, she had yet to take a shower, and she had sweated a lot during her trip outside, so she didn''t n to resume writing immediately.


    While lying on the bed and browsing Weibo on her phone, she suddenly heard footsteps approaching her room.


    Immediately afterward, a knock came through the door.


    "Chuanchuan, are you busy?"


    Xu Chuanchuan put down the phone. Then, looking at the door, she said, "I''m not. What''s up?"


    "There''s a lot of ice cream. Let''s eat some of it together."


    "I''ve eaten, so you eat it yourself."


    "Oh, okay," Little Yan responded, her voice sounding a little disappointed. Then, she pulled up her voice again and said, "I''m done showering. You can go wash up now."


    "Got it. I''ll go in a moment."


    Xu Chuanchuan would inadvertently think about indescribable scenes whenever she saw Little Yan. So, to avoid creating an embarrassing situation for both of them, she decided to hide like a tortoise.


    After her sweat had dried and she could no longer hear any movement outside, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed a change of clothes and left her room. However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Little Yan was currently lying on the living room sofa with a facial mask on her face.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan also sat up when she heard the sound of a door opening. Because of the mask tightening up her face, Little Yan''s voice sounded a little fuzzy as she said, "Are you going to shower?"


    "Mhm." Xu Chuanchuan walked toward the bathroom with her gaze fixed ahead.


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to walk past Little Yan, Little Yan removed her mask and called out to her, "Chuanchuan, did you run out just now because we disturbed you?"


    "No, I just had a sudden urge to eat some snacks," Xu Chuanchuan said, lying through her teeth. Then, she pointed at the shopping bag on the coffee table and said, "I bought a lot of snacks. You can take whatever you want."


    Little Yan had an innocent mind, so she did not doubt Xu Chuanchuan''s words at all. Breathing out a sigh of relief, she said, "That''s good. I thought you were angry."


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Why would I be angry at such a small matter?"


    "Don''t worry. It won''t happen again next time," Little Yan assured with a blush on her face.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Why would I be worried about the affair between the two of you?</em>


    Then, Little Yan hesitated to speak.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan decided to stand still and wait for the girl to finish speaking.


    After hesitating for some time, Little Yan finally made up her mind and earnestly said, "Chuanchuan, I think you are a very nice person. You''ve helped me a lot on the first day I arrived."


    "Is that so?" Xu Chuanchuanughed.


    "Yes! You lent me a rag and helped me carry my bags when we went shopping," Little Yan said, sticking out her tongue yfully when she recalled the embarrassing situation that day. "Also, Miss Murong says you and I havemon interests and hobbies, so I think we can be friends."


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Whatmon hobby?"


    "Novels!" Little Yan said excitedly. "Miss Murong said you like reading novels. I like them very much, too! We can share novels in the future! By the way, what types of novels do you like to read?"


    This question instantly stumped xu Chuanchuan. Then, her lips twitching, she said, "I...I''m old already, so I don''t read novels now."


    "Is that so?" Little Yan said, expressing her regret.


    "Mhm. It''s been very long since Ist read a novel, so I''ve forgotten everything I''ve read before."


    "It''s fine, it''s fine. We can still talk about other things aside from novels."


    Xu Chuanchuan was afraid that Little Yan would drag her into another long conversation on a whim, so she quickly said, "I''ll go take a bath first."


    "Mhm, mhm. Go ahead."


    However, as soon as Xu Chuanchuan turned around, Little Yan called out to her again.


    "What is it now?"


    Suddenly, Little Yan''s expression turned strange, and her cheeks flushed red. Then, she bit her lower lip and cautiously said, "You should''ve noticed that Miss Murong and I...our rtionship isn''t just one of employer and assistant. But I don''t want others to find out about us yet. I''ll tell you about it when the time is right."


    <em>Sure enough, the rtionship between these two isn''t ordinary, </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself. In reality, after hearing those strange noises for two nights, she had mostly guessed what was going on already.


    It was one thing to make a guess, but hearing the person in question pointing it out was another thing entirely. For a time, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know what expression she should put on. Then, putting on a forced smile, she said, "Okay."


    After that day, Murong Shi no longer appeared in their dormitory. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have much interaction with Little Yan. Instead, she would typically hole herself into her room after getting off work, turn on herputer, and start writing her novel.


    The initial publication of her new novel progressed rtively smoothly this time, and Xu Chuanchuan was bursting with inspiration. Whenever she started writing, she would immediately forget about the time. She would even frequently write until midnight. By the time she finished every writing session and left her room to take a shower, she would find that the door to Little Yan''s room was already shut, and the girl herself was already asleep.


    Hence, the two of them had very littlemunication with each other.


    However, during a particr lunch break, Xu Chuanchuan happened across Little Yan in the dorm''s bathroom. Taking advantage of the opportunity, Little Yan asked her, "Chuanchuan, are you always busy with work even after work hours?"


    Without revealing any expressions, Xu Chuanchaun replied, "No. Why do you ask?"


    Then, Little Yan hesitantly said, "I alwayse back in the evening to see the door to your room closed. Although I sometimes thought of looking for you, I don''t dare to knock on the door."


    "It''s fine. You cane to find me if you want to," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling.


    "But Miss Murong says you''re busy every night, and she told me not to disturb you. I also frequently hear you typing away at your keyboard. So, Chuanchuan, are you writing novels?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped at Little Yan''s words. Then, putting on a smile with a guilty conscience, she said, "How can I be writing novels? You think too highly of me."


    Without putting much thought into the matter, Little Yan said, "Why isn''t it possible? I frequently read novels. I''ve also joined the reader group of an author I like. This author is a part-time writer, and she writes her novels every day after getting off work. She says she has to work tillte at night every day. Your situation is simr to hers!"


    In the end, both of them were part of the online literary circle, and Little Yan had uncovered the truth with pinpoint uracy.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan refused to admit she was writing yuri novels even if it killed her. Then, an idea came to her suddenly as she said, "I''m not writing novels. I''m writing university theses for people."


    "Theses?"


    Holding back her embarrassment, Xu Chuanchuan continued lying, "Yes. It''s an online part-time job. I help university students write their thesis."


    "Doesn''t that mean you''re a ghostwriter?"


    At this point, Xu Chuanchuan was so nervous that even her palms were sweating. Then, lowering her head in shame, she said, "Yes, I''m a ghostwriter."


    Little Yan was so surprised that she couldn''t speak for a moment.


    Working as a ghostwriter was indeed something deplorable, but Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t think of a more suitable reason right now. After calming herself, she said, "You must never tell others about this, especially not Miss Murong. I''m afraid she''ll fire me.''


    Fortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, Little Yan had an innocent mind, so the girl was easily persuaded. Then, blinking her eyes, Little Yan said, "Okay, I won''t tell anyone."


    "Thank you." Xu Chuanchaun secretly rubbed her sweaty palms against her pants. She also began considering whether she should rece her noisy mechanical keyboard.


    Then, Little Yan casually asked, "Chuanchuan, are you short of money?"


    With a mourning look, Xu Chuanchuan answered, "Mhm. Very much so."


    "T-Then, what''s your monthly sry?" Little Yan asked hesitantly.


    It was generally taboo for most people to inquire about the sry of others in the workce. However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t fuss over it since she knew Little Yan was a rookie in the workce.


    Most importantly, Little Yan was too cute to resist. So, without even thinking too deeply, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Very little. I only make around 4,500 a month."


    However, Little Yan widened her mouth when she heard this number. Then, she eximed, "That''s a lot!"


    "...Are you serious?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, baffled.


    Nodding repeatedly, Little Yan said, "I''m very serious! I think 4,500 is a lot!"


    "What about you?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    In response, Little Yan ttened her lips and aggrievedly said, "I don''t have a sry."


    "What?"


    "I don''t have a sry..." Little Yan repeated.


    "How is that possible?" This time, it was Xu Chuanchuan''s turn to be surprised.


    "I really don''t have one. You have to believe me," Little Yan said as she nodded heavily.


    After changing the direction of her thoughts, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You...weren''t tricked, right?"


    <em>This is tant exploitation!</em>


    However, the next moment, Little Yan''s eyes curved upward, and the gloomy expression on her face vanished instantly. Then, she happily said, "She definitely won''t lie to me. Although she hasn''t talked to me about my sry, she said she would care for me. Hehe."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Okay, I surrender.</em>

 Chapter 48: Pt.1

    Chapter 48: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan had been living in fear every day ever since Little Yan had nearly found out about her part-time job as a novel author. She was so afraid that she had even bought a keyboard online that was said to be ultra-quiet. However, as the keyboard still hadnt arrived yet, she used her phone to write for the time being.


    Although the experience of typing on a phone was terrible, the advantage of doing so was clear. Xu Chuanchuan could write her novel while standing, sitting, or lying down. So long as there wasnt anybody to disturb her, she could write at any time and anywhere.


    Apart from reading novels, Xu Chuanchuan found that Little Yan had another simr hobby as she dideating.


    However, the two of them had different reasons for having a big appetite. Little Yans fondness of eating was probably rted to her growing body, while Xu Chuanchuans fondness of eating was simply because...she was a glutton.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt somewhat uneasy after lying to Little Yan, so she offered the girl some snacks she bought from the supermarket.


    Meanwhile, even after finding out that Xu Chuanchuan was a glutton, Little Yan did notugh at Xu Chuanchuan. Instead, sheforted Xu Chuanchuan, saying, Youre good as you are. You wont get fat no matter how much you eat. Other people will kill to get such a trait.


    Xu Chuanchuan feltforted after hearing Little Yans words. Then, she frankly said, Actually, I do get fat, but all of it gathers around my waist, so my clothes end up hiding it.


    Hearing this, Little Yan shifted her gaze to Xu Chuanchuans waist. Then, she looked at the other partys thin arms and legs and said, You keep sitting down and dont exercise. Youre bound to get fat even if you dont eat a lot.


    Youre right, Xu Chuanchuan agreed in embarrassment.


    While nibbling on a salt-baked chicken foot, Little Yan casually said, You seem to be free these past few nights. Are you done writing the theses?


    An unnatural light shed across Xu Chuanchuans eyes briefly. Then, she vaguely said, Mhm... I dont get work every day.


    Little Yan tactfully stopped asking about this topic. After wiping the oil on her lips, she said, Im tired of eating this. Lets eat something else.


    Lets have some ice cream, then.


    Okay, one for each of us! Little Yan said, remembering that a lot of the ice cream Murong Shi bought for her previously remained. However, when she opened the refrigerators freezerpartment, something fell out. After picking up the fallen package and looking at it, she asked, Snail noodles? Whats this?


    I think its a local specialty from Guangxi. Its something my little sister gave me, Xu Chuanchuan said after looking at the package.


    Is it good? Little Yan asked as she looked at the packaging with interest.


    Shrugging, Xu Chuanchuan said, No idea. My sister says its good, but Ive never tried it.


    Then, with sparkles in her eyes, Little Yan asked, Why didnt you try it?


    Because this thing needs to be boiled in water. I dont own a pot.


    Xu Chuanchuan had received five packets of snail noodles from Xu Xiangxiang some time ago, and she had nearly thrown them away when she was moving house previously. However, she eventually decided against doing so as she felt it would be a waste.


    Little Yan looked at the packet of noodles thoughtfully for a moment.


    As a foodie herself, Xu Chuanchuan instantly saw through Little Yans thoughts. Then, she asked, Do you want to eat it?


    After hesitating for a moment, Little Yan nodded and said, I feel that itll be delicious. It has my favorite tofu skin.


    But we dont have a pot.


    Then, a gleam appeared in Little Yans eyes as she said, I have an idea.


    After saying so, Little Yan ran out of the house. Several minutester, she returned with an induction cooker in her arms. There was also a metal pot sitting on the stove.


    Where did you get those? Xu Chuanchuan asked in surprise.


    In a delighted tone, Little Yan said, I borrowed it from the big sisters next door. I saw them cooking noodles once.


    Way to go!


    Little Yan hadnt eaten enough for dinner. Now that there was something never-before-seen in front of her, she moved with great enthusiasm. She washed the pot, boiled the water, and set up the stove in the blink of an eye. Then, following the packagings instructions, she poured the seasoning provided into the pot of water. When the smell of the resulting broth entered her nostrils, Little Yan eximed, Wah! The smell of sour bamboo shoots is amazing!


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan coughed and asked, Why does it smell so bad?


    In response, Little Yan took a deep breath. Then, she revealed a look of enjoyment and said, But it doesnt? I quite like it.


    Pinching her nose, Xu Chuanchuan said in a buzzing voice, I cant handle this smell. Can you eat my share as well?


    After taking a look at the rice noodles that were puffing up, Little Yan widened her eyes and said, How can I finish two packets by myself?


    If you cant finish it...then just throw the rest away. We still have three more packets in the fridge anyway, Xu Chuanchuan said. She felt as if she was about to suffocate just from the smell. She couldnt even imagine herself eating the noodles.


    Meanwhile, seeing the ufortable look on Xu Chuanchuans face, Little Yan didnt force the issue. But then, she suddenly thought of something as she smiled and said, Ill call her up, then.


    Who?


    Miss Murong.


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, She still hasnt left?


    Its still early. Shes been constantly working overtimetely. Ill give her a call, Little Yan said as she happily pulled out her phone.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan couldnt help but haveplicated feelings momentarily.


    The call quickly connected. Then, Little Yan softly said, You must be hungry after working overtime, right? Chuanchuan and I just cooked up something delicious, soe up and eat with us... Why do you want me to bring it down? Im already in my PJs. Ill finish everything by myself if you donte up quickly... Okay, Ill wait for you. Bye-bye.


    After hanging up the phone in satisfaction, Little Yan said, Actually, she abhors sour foods. Shell definitely hate this smell more than you.


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little confused when she saw the mischievous smile on Little Yans face. Then, she asked, Why are you calling her toe up, then?


    So that the food doesnt go to waste, Little Yan said, giggling. Dont worry. Ill force her to finish it even if she doesnt want to.


    ... Xu Chuanchuan found herself unsure of how to follow up with these words.


    Since Murong Shi wasing, Xu Chuanchuan felt she should take her leave. After all, there was no benefit from being a third wheel. So, she said, You two enjoy. Ill head inside to watch some videos.


    Are you really not eating?


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, Mhm, Im not hungry. You two enjoy.


    After returning to her room, Xu Chuanchuan shut the door, pulled out her phone, and began writing her novel.


    When Murong Shi arrived, she made almost no sound when opening the front door. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan still heard herining, What are you cooking? It smells so bad.


    Come,e! It just finished cooking! Its something very delicious, Little Yan chirped.


    What is it? Take it away, take it away. It stinks like hell. I wont eat it.


    Its the smell of sour bamboo shoots. Come on,e here. Its delicious. Here, Ill feed you. Say ah


    ...


    Xu Chuanchuan couldnt help but feel miserable when she overheard the conversation between Murong Shi and Little Yan. While others were unting their affection for each other, she was bitterly working away on her phone.


    When subjected to this situation, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently remembered Angesint some time ago. After listening to the sweet exchangesing from outside, she suddenly wanted to fall in love as well.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan only thought about the matter for a moment. After all, even if she wanted to fall in love, she needed to find the right person first.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the living room...


    Suppressing her voice, Little Yan said, Chuanchuan seems to be afraid of you.


    Unfazed by this revtion, Murong Shi asked, Am I scary?


    Then, Little Yan stared at Murong Shis face for some time before shaking her head and saying, Not at all.


    So, why is she afraid of me?


    How would I know?


    This thing reeks. Hurry up and finish it, Murong Shi said as she pressed Little Yans head, forcibly changing the topic. Then, while ignoring Little Yansints, she took a long nce at the closed door of Xu Chuanchuans room.


    While Little Yan was slurping on the noodles, she noticed that Murong Shis attention had wandered to somewhere else, so she asked, What are you looking at?


    Withdrawing her gaze, Murong Shi responded with a question, asking, Has she said anything to you about me?


    Who?


    Xu Chuanchuan.


    After pondering earnestly for a moment, Little Yan answered, Nope. She seems reluctant to talk about topics rted to you. Even when I brought up my rtionship with youst time, she didnt make anyments. Is something wrong?


    Its nothing.


    Your tone is strange. You sound disappointed.


    Murong Shi pushed Little Yans approaching face aside. Then, she pretended to be displeased as she said, Little kids shouldnt be such a busybody. Focus on eating.


    Okay...


    After slurping on the noodles for some time, Little Yan could no longer keep her mouth shut as she said, Chuanchuan is a nice person.


    Snorting, Murong Shi coldly said, You got bought over after just one packet of noodles? You shouldnt judge a book by its cover.


    Looking at Murong Shi as if she were looking at a ghost, Little Yan said, Thats not what you told me before. You said it yourself that Chuanchuan is a kind and warm person with no scheming thoughts and that you can rest easy if you let me live with her.


    ...


    Chuanchuan says her sry is low.


    Hearing this, Murong Shi chuckled for a moment before saying, You dont even have a sry. You should pity yourself first before pitying anyone else.


    Little Yan choked on some chili oil when she heard Murong Shis words, and she ended up coughing violently. Then, after patting her chest and waiting for her breath to stabilize, she said, But our situations are different. I still have you to care for me. If Chuanchuan has someone to care for her as well, theres no need for her to work so hard every night, right?


    Everyone has different thoughts, Murong Shi mentioned casually.


    Huh?


    After contemting for a moment, Murong Shi quietly said, She might look weak and gentle on the surface, but in fact...


    Go on.


    ... Little Yans pure and innocent eyes looked like a mirror that reflected ones inner demons. When Murong Shi saw herself through those eyes, she hesitated to continue speaking. Then, she cleared her throat and said, Nothing.


    Having discovered something interesting, Little Yan stared at Murong Shis face even more intently as she said, You seem to understand Chuanchuan a lot.


    A brief sh appeared in Murong Shis eyes as she said, ...


    ...


    Thepany paid everyones wages on the 20th of every month. Everyone in thepany would be in a joyous mood whenever this day arrived.


    Many people would turn on their banks SMS service for this day. As soon as the Finance Department remitted everyones sry, a bunch of ringing sounds would echo throughout the various offices.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan didnt have a high sry, she, too, couldnt help but pick up her phone when it rang. However, when she checked the message she received, she found that the number disyed inside differed from usual. She had actually received close to an additional 1,000 yuan.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan thought it was because of the overtime she did. When she had temporarily taken over Lindas workst month, there were a few times where she couldnt finish her work on time and had to work overtime. However, after careful calction, she found that the amount still wasnt right.


    Amidst her confusion, she overheard one of her colleagues asking, Did you guys receive the right sry?


    Then, someone responded, Mines wrong. I got a few hundred yuan more thanst month.


    Subsequently, another person said, Me too. I got a few hundred more. Did the Finance Department make a mistake?


    After a brief discussion, everyone in the Engineering Department realized that they had received an increase in their sries. Because of this unexpected bonus, everyone was on cloud nine.


    Little Xu, why are you staring at your phone with that dumb smile on your face?


    Drylyughing, Xu Chuanchuan said, Im just thinking, what if the Finance Department really made a mistake? If thats the case, then theyll definitely have us return the extra money. This is the first time Ive received such arge sry, so Im taking a screenshot to keep as a souvenir.


    Everyone couldnt help butugh in amusement when they heard Xu Chuanchuans words. Some people said she was dumb, while some said she had a big heart.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan truly thought so in her heart. Although the money she received from her novels each month was several times higher than her monthly sry, this was still the first time she had received such arge sry. So, she couldnt help but feel a little excited.


    Meanwhile, near the end of the discussions, someone righteously said, Do you guys think that maybe thepany gave us a raise?


    However, someone immediately refuted, Dream on. Ourpany is known for being stingy. We dont even have a New Years Eve dinner, yet you expect a sry increase?


    Then, another person said, Did you guys forget? During our firstpany dinner, Miss Murong said that so long as thepanys performance increases by... Uh, I cant remember how many percent, but so long as profits are good, she said shed give us a raise.


    At this persons reminder, everyone quickly recalled Murong Shis deration. Immediately, another round of discussions began.


    When afternoon arrived, everyone finally received an answer to their questions.


    The Finance Department had emailed everyone, exining the reason for the abnormal sry this time. Sure enough, it was Murong Shi who had given everyone a raise.


    Almost at the same time, Little Yan, who was standing in for Linda, also sent out an email, notifying everyone that allpany staff members were invited to dinner on Friday night.

 Chapter 48: Pt.2

    Chapter 48: Pt.2


    The dinner party this time was the second dinner party thepany had hosted officially. Everyone was happy after receiving an unexpected raise, so nobody was absent from the dinner party on Friday night.


    Thepany had reserved arge hall for the event. After everyone got settled into their seats, Murong Shi stood up and raised a ss of beer, saying, "Everyone has worked hard during this period, and thepany''s performance reflects this. To show everyone my appreciation, I have fulfilled my previous promise and given everyone a pay raise. I hope everyone can continue working hard in the future, and in return, I will make sure you receive even more benefits."


    "All hail Miss Murong!"


    Nobody knew who shouted these words, but hearing them made everyone burst intoughter.


    Then, Murong Shi smiled and said, "I won''t be fooling everyone with juice this time. I am very happy today, so I will toast everyone with beer."


    The temptation of money was powerful. It didn''t matter whether one could handle alcohol or not. Everyone filled their sses with beer. Then, all 50-plus people in the room stood up, toasted, cheered, and drank. The atmosphere in the room instantly reached a climax.


    Xu Chuanchuan sat in an inconspicuous corner. After finishing a ss of beer, she began quietly eating the food ced before her.


    During the first dinner party, almost everyone in thepany was dissatisfied with Murong Shi''s authoritarian leadership style, with some people even being afraid of her. This time, though, everyone had thoroughly let themselves go, with some people even boldly approaching Murong Shi to toast to her. What was even more surprising was that Murong Shi had responded positively to all of these approaches.


    At one point, the colleague sitting beside Xu Chuanchuan invited her to have a toast with Murong Shi as a group. However, Xu Chuanchuan shook her head and said she didn''t wish to join in on the fun. Instead, she quietly watched as batch after batch of people flocked to Murong Shi. Xu Chuanchuan also watched Murong Shi tear off the emotionless mask she usually wore and weed everyone''s alcohol. Then, Xu Chuanchuan wondered to herself, Isn''t she afraid of getting drunk?


    After another group of people backed away, Xu Chuanchuan got a clear line of sight of Murong Shi. Only two round tables separated them. When Xu Chuanchuan noticed that Murong Shi was seemingly looking in her direction, she hurriedly lowered her head.


    The atmosphere inside the dining hall remained high at all times. Finally, unable to bear the noise, Xu Chuanchuan left her seat halfway through the meal and made her way to the restroom.


    However, unbeknownst to Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi had also followed after her shortly afterward. Hence, when Xu Chuanchuan exited the restroom stall she upied and saw Murong Shi in front of the sink, she was immediately given a fright.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi also caught sight of Xu Chuanchuan through the mirror. Then, she turned around, chuckled, and teasingly said, "Did you just see a ghost in broad daylight?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed in embarrassment. Then, she murmured, "It''s already dark outside."


    Murong Shi stopped speaking after this and extended her hands under the faucet. However, after seeing no watering out of the faucet for a long time, she muttered, "Is it broken?"


    "This isn''t sensor-operated," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she stepped forward and helped Murong Shi turn on the faucet.


    When Murong Shi heard the sound of sshing water and felt cold water pouring onto her hands, she exhaled and said, "So that''s the case. Thank you."


    "You''re wee," Xu Chuanchuan said. Now that she was standing close to Murong Shi, she noticed that the other party reeked of alcohol. Xu Chuanchuan also noted that Murong Shi''s cheeks were slightly red, and her usually sharp eyes had be dull. After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you drunk?"


    "No," Murong Shi curtly replied. Then, she stepped aside from the sink.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi was yielding the sink to her. So, after hesitating for a moment, she stepped forward and squeezed some hand wash onto her hand.


    "Get me some as well," Murong Shi said.


    Fortunately, the hand wash here wasn''t fixed in ce. After Xu Chuanchuan squeezed some for Murong Shi, the two of them scrubbed their hands in silence, neither of them looking at each other.


    The two of them finished washing their hands almost simultaneously. This time, without waiting for Murong Shi to ask, Xu Chuanchuan consciously helped her draw a piece of paper towel.


    Murong Shi sent a sidelong nce at Xu Chuanchuan at this initiative. However, she said nothing more than a "thank you" to the shorter woman.


    Even though Murong Shi had hidden it well, Xu Chuanchuan could still sense the other party''s exhaustion. Then, for some inexplicable reason, she said, "You should drink less next time."


    "What did you say?" Murong Shi leaned forward. Maybe because the floor was slippery, or perhaps because she was drunk, but Murong Shi ended up losing her footing.


    Meanwhile, when Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi''s body wobbling, she reflexively reached out and supported the taller woman. However, when Murong Shi''s upper body fell into her arms, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but fall into a daze.


    Fortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi quickly pushed herself upright. Then, looking down, she said in an annoyed tone, "Sorry."


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt her face warming up a little. Then, when she looked at Murong Shi''s scarily tall high heels, she stammered, "I-I think it''s best if I help you out of here."


    For some reason, Xu Chuanchuan felt that as long as she were to let go, Murong Shi''s chances of falling would double.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan put a hand onto Murong Shi''s arm and carefully looked at Murong Shi''splexion. Even if Murong Shi wasn''t willing to admit it, Xu Chuanchuan was certain that the woman was drunk.


    Murong Shi breathed lightly and observed Xu Chuanchuan for a moment as if pondering something. Then, after some time had passed, she eventually agreed to Xu Chuanchuan''s help and replied with an "mhm."


    Upon receiving Murong Shi''s confirmation, Xu Chuanchuan tightened her grip over Murong Shi''s arm.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi tly asked, "Have you had any alcohol tonight?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a little ufortable when she felt Murong Shi''s warm breath hitting her face and bare neck. Then, she hurriedly nodded and said, "I d-drank a little..."


    "Have a ss with me once we return."


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why?"


    Putting on a gentle smile, Murong Shi leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "Thank you for taking care of Little Yan these past few days."


    "Oh..."


    However, as soon as Xu Chuanchuan gave her response, her body stiffened.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi struggled free from Xu Chuanchuan''s hold. Almost at the same time as she did so, someone opened the door to the restroom and entered. This new arrival was a female colleague working in the Finance Department.


    "Miss Murong."


    "Mhm." Murong Shi greeted the other party with a nod, the dullness in her eyes instantly disappearing. Then, she stood upright and revealed an energized look, appearing like an entirely different person than before.


    Before Murong Shi left, she nced back at Xu Chuanchuan. Afterward, she left the washroom without looking back.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan appeared to have been petrified as she stood still for a long time, unsure how she should react.


    <em>Just now Murong Shi licked my ear</em>


    Even after Xu Chuanchuan left the restroom sometimeter, her heart remained a mess. When she returned to her table, she only managed to eat a small portion of the delicacies served as she had no appetite whatsoever. Right now, the only thing she wanted to do was to leave as soon as possible.


    However, just when Xu Chuanchuan had grabbed her bag and was about to sneak out of the dining hall, Murong Shi suddenly appeared before her with a ss of beer in hand.


    "Where are you going?" Murong Shi asked with a smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan had no intentions of lying. After wetting her dried lips, she said, "I''m thinking of returning ahead of time."


    "Then, have a ss with me first."


    It was just one ss. Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t afraid she would get drunk because of such a small amount. So, she quickly filled a nearby ss and lightly clinked it against Murong Shi''s. Just as she was about to chug down the beer, Murong Shi suddenly held down her hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan was confused by this situation.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi suddenly leaning into her, she subconsciously stepped back. However, she forgot that there was a wall behind her, so she ended up bumping into it, her body wobbling slightly.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi stood her ground, her eyes gazing at the shorter woman intently. Then, using a voice that only the two of them could hear, she asked, "Don''t you have anything to say about what I did just now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up at the mention of the previous incident. Then, in a timid voice, she asked, "What are you trying to say?"


    Then, Murong Shi curled her lips and said, "I thought you would understand. You''ve been secretly watching me the entire time, after all."


    Xu Chuanchuan bit her lower lip out of embarrassment when she realized she had been caught red-handed. Then, meeting Murong Shi''s scorching gaze head-on, she awkwardly said, "That''s because...you licked my ear, so I..."


    Murong Shi chuckled. Then, dissecting Xu Chuanchuan''s bald-faced lie, Murong Shi said, "You''ve been staring at me even before I licked you. Did you think I wouldn''t notice?"


    Was I that obvious? Pretending to be calm, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Don''t be such a narcissist."


    "I''m not narcissistic. Your gaze was just too straightforward," Murong Shi said as she caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s reddened right ear.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt electrocuted when Murong Shi touched her ear, and she instinctively pped Murong Shi''s hand away. Then, she red at the taller woman and demanded, "What are you doing?"


    "I''m not doing anything. Why are you getting so excited?"


    Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away. Then, looking at Little Yan, who was giggling cheerfully in the crowd, she swallowed the saliva in her mouth and said, "I don''t know why you''re doing this. You clearly have Little Yan already, yet you''re behaving like...<em>that</em>...to me. Do you not feel sorry at all for Little Yan?"


    "Little Yan? Why should I feel sorry for her?" Murong Shi asked in confusion.


    "Isn''t she your girlfriend?"


    Murong Shi''s lips twitched at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. "Who told you Little Yan is my girlfriend?"


    Taken aback, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is she not? Didn''t you two already..."


    "Her name is Murong Yan, and she''s my younger sister."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless by Murong Shi''s words momentarily, her gaze switching between Little Yan and the person in front of her a few times. Then, opening her mouth, she said, "But you two don''t look alike at all."


    In a helpless tone, Murong Shi said, "She''s my cousin. I''m using my mother''s surname."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    <em>Little Yan is Murong Shi''s younger cousin sister???</em>


    This was an oue Xu Chuanchuan had never expected.


    <em>Then, what was up with the strange noises I heard before?</em>


    However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have time to ponder the matter as Murong Shi had suddenly grabbed onto her free hand. Startled, Xu Chuanchuan immediately snapped out of her daze. "You"


    Murong Shi moved her face even closer while also deliberately maintaining a certain distance between the two of them. Then, she said, "The truth is, you don''t hate me, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan no longer had any room left to retreat. However, she also didn''t wish to cause too much of amotion and attract the attention of others. So, tensing up her body, she said in a trembling tone, "I don''t hate you, but"


    "You also have feelings toward me," Murong Shi said, interrupting Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    "Y-You drank too much."


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan trying to evade her once more, Murong Shi breathed out a heavy sigh. Then, she said, "This is the first time I''ve held such affection toward a person, yet I never thought I would still be rejected."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Staring straight into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, Murong Shi said, "It doesn''t matter whether you admit it or not. But, in any case, I now know the answer in your heart."


    Stammering, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You''re overthinking things. Like I told you before, I don''t like women. So, can you please let go of my hand first?"


    However, rather than doing as requested, Murong Shi had instead tightened her grip over Xu Chuanchuan''s hand. Then, snorting, she said, "You got angry at mest time, yet you''re not mad this time. Is this still not enough proof?"


    Blushing, Xu Chuanchuan said, "That''s because Because"


    "Because what?"


    Possibly because of the alcohol, but Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi''s hand felt hot to the touch. Apart from her hand, Murong Shi''s gaze and breath when she spoke felt scorching as well. Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she were standing in an oven right now, and her whole body felt ufortable. She wanted nothing more than to push Murong Shi away right now, yet her body refused to obey hermands no matter what.


    The only part of her body Xu Chuanchuan could currently move was her eyes. As she rapidly blinked her eyes, she found that she had lost even the ability to think.


    At this moment, Xu Chuanchuan finally realized what it felt like to look up at Murong Shi from such a close distance. Apart from that, she also noticed that while Murong Shi was looking down at her, those dark and beautiful eyes were so focused that it looked like they only had her in them...


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that it was only her misconception, yet she couldn''t bring herself to refute this feeling. She also knew that so long as she used a little bit of strength, she could easily struggle free from Murong Shi''s hold. Yet, she had somehow forgotten to resist.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi gently squeezed Xu Chuanchuan''s palm.


    Xu Chuanchuan snapped out of her daze and turned her head away. Then, she said in a decisive tone, "No, I don''t like you."


    "Really?"


    "Really."


    "Then, look into my eyes and say it."


    Xu Chuanchua: "..." She dared not look.


    Those dark and slender eyes were like a pair of whirlpools that threatened to suck her in. Xu Chuanchuan was afraid she couldn''t get out once she got sucked in.


    Murong Shi put down her ss. After doing so, she also took away Xu Chuanchuan''s ss and set it aside. Although Xu Chuanchuan was taken aback by this action, she didn''t say anything to stop Murong Shi.


    Then, Murong Shi ced a palm on Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulder, looked at her surroundings for a moment, and said in a calm voice, "Why don''t we do an experiment?"


    "What experiment?"


    After pondering slightly, Murong Shi said, "I will kiss you now. If you dislike it, you can push me away. If you aren''t disgusted by it, then that proves you have feelings for me."


    "!!!" Xu Chuanchuan immediately pushed Murong Shi away. Then, she said in a suppressed voice, "Impossible!!! There are so many people here!!!"


    "Then...shall we change venues?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>That''s not the point, right?</em>

 Chapter 49: Pt.1

    Chapter 49: Pt.1


    Never had Xu Chuanchuan been more certain that Murong Shi was currently drunk. This was because she found that Murong Shi''s eyes were bing darker and darker, and the temperature of her hand was growing higher and higher.


    There was no question that Murong Shi was much more charming than usual when she was drunk. Her soft body, her slight panting, and her captivating eyes that looked to be focused and filled with affection caused Xu Chuanchuan''s heart to pound furiously.


    At this moment, Xu Chuanchuan could feel her heartbeat bing increasingly faster, her breathing gradually bing hurried, and the feeling of suffocation steadily surrounding her.


    <em>I can''t let this situation continue.</em>


    Although Murong Shi had be more charming after getting drunk, she had also be even more dangerous.


    Murong Shi was someone who dared to forcibly kiss her and lick her ear when not fully drunk. If Murong Shi became totally intoxicated by alcohol... Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t even begin to imagine what kind of outrageous things Murong Shi would do.


    Although their current location was quite hidden, there were many eyes present in the dining hall. Nobody could guarantee that other people wouldn''t discover them.


    By now, sweat had begun appearing in ces where the two people''s skin touched. Then, out of anxiety, Xu Chuanchuan started using brute force to struggle out of Murong Shi''s hold while saying, "I''m not continuing this farce anymore. I''m leaving."


    "I''m not fooling around," Murong Shi said, a slightly unhappy expression appearing on her face.


    When Xu Chuanchuan felt Murong Shi''s hot breath hitting her face, she grew even more flustered. Finally, in a soft, pleading tone, she asked, "What exactly do you want?"


    Murong Shi''s focus scattered slightly. Then, she used her free hand to caress Xu Chuanchuan''s chin before slowly saying, "I''m serious. I want to find a ce to try it with you right now."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Murong Shi seemed to have trouble standing straight as she leaned her body forward. Then, as her lips brushed past Xu Chuanchuan''s ear, she said in a voice full of temptation, "How about we go to my car?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s head buzzed when she heard Murong Shi''s suggestion. Then, she pped the hand that was caressing her chin, pushed Murong Shi away, and said with a reddened face, "No!"


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "Why not?"


    "Y-You''re drunk."


    Murong Shiughed happily. Her voice had be a little hoarse due to the alcohol, giving it a hint of sexiness. Then, slowly and clearly, she said, "I am fully aware of what I am doing right now. Also, there is an old saying that fits this situationin wine, there is truth."


    "I-I''m not talking to you anymore. Hurry up and let go of my hand," Xu Chuanchuan stammered, making it look as if <em>she </em>was the drunk one among the two of them.


    After staring at Xu Chuanchuan for a moment, Murong Shi sighed and said, "You''re not afraid of me. So, what exactly are you afraid of?"


    "I..."


    "It''s too stuffy here. Let''s talk outside," Murong Shi said. Then, without giving Xu Chuanchuan any opportunities to refute, she wrapped one arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist, making it look like she would drag Xu Chuanchuan out of the restaurant.


    Xu Chuanchuan was truly afraid that Murong Shi would drag her onto her car. At that time, once the doors were locked and the lights were off, anything could happen


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan stretched out her neck and frantically called out, "Little Yan, Little Yan"


    Murong Shi''s expression changed slightly. Then, she said, "What are you calling her for? I already told you she is my cousin."


    It was precisely because Little Yan was Murong Shi''s cousin that Xu Chuanchuan was calling for the girl.


    Ignoring Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan quickly located Little Yan''s figure in the dining hall and shouted once more, "Little Yan,e over quickly!"


    Fortunately, Little Yan did not disappoint Xu Chuanchuan. Upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan calling for her, Little Yan happily ran over. Then, she suspiciously looked at the entangled hands of the two people in front of her and asked, "What are you two doing? Chuanchuan, are you drunk? Your face looks so red!"


    Taking advantage of Murong Shi''s momentarypse of attention, Xu Chuanchuan finally struggled out of Murong Shi''s hold. Then, she quickly said, "I''m fine! It''s your cousin who''s drunk! Come and help her!"


    Little Yan was taken aback for a moment when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, after sweeping her gaze back and forth between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi, she said, "Chuanchuan...you found out already?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly nodded. Without waiting for Little Yan to respond, she pushed Murong Shi toward Little Yan.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan sessfully received her older cousin.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan vigntly moved aside and said, "I still have things to do at home, so you two have fun!"


    Without even looking at Murong Shi''s reaction, Xu Chuanchuan quickly fled out of the dining hall. Only after exiting the restaurant and realizing that Murong Shi did not give chase did Xu Chuanchuan stop and breathe out a sigh of relief.


    However, even after hailing a cab and getting into the car, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t rx.


    A clear mark had appeared on the wrist Murong Shi had grabbed before. Even though it didn''t hurt, Xu Chuanchuan could still feel the residue heat left by Murong Shi''s hand. Throughout the trip back home, Xu Chuanchuan gently massaged the mark. However, even after her skin returned to its usual pale white, she still mechanically massaged the area.


    In reality, when Murong Shi asked her what she was afraid of, even Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know the answer herself.


    Was Xu Chuanchuan afraid of Murong Shi? That wasn''t the case.


    Murong Shi might be critical and strict at work, but her personality in private was one that Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t fearful of. The only reason why Xu Chuanchuan fled just now was because she would expose her true thoughts in a moment of panic.


    The restaurant wasn''t located far away from thepany. After a ten-minute ride, the taxi driver reminded Xu Chuanchuan that they had arrived. Then, Xu Chuanchuan quickly paid the fare and stumbled her way back to the dormitory.


    After returning to the dormitory, the first thing Xu Chuanchuan did was to take a shower. She tried taking a long and cold shower, thinking that this would allow her to forget Murong Shi''s words and actions. However, the more she resisted, the clearer those scenes became...


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly started regretting why she had drunk so little alcohol. If she had known beforehand that Murong Shi would act that way toward her, she would''ve gotten herself drunk. Then, she would forget about everything the next day and could go about her day as if nothing had ever happened.


    Now, though, Xu Chuanchuan was faced with a problem. The night was still young, so how should she get through this long and arduous night?


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to blow-dry her hair. After wrapping her hair with a dry towel, sheid down on the bed, pulled out her phone, and sent a message to Ange.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I think I''m going crazy."


    Ange: "Writer''s block?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No."


    Ange: "What''s wrong?"


    With the situation having developed up to this point, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she could no longer hide it from Ange. She also didn''t wish to hide it anymore because she urgently needed someone experienced to vent to.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Someone confessed to me at ourpany dinner today."


    <em>Murong Shi has said all that to me, so it should count as a confession, right?</em>


    Ange: "Fuck! Is it a man or woman?"


    <em>This question really is on point </em>Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she saw Ange''s question. Then, gritting her teeth, she decided to go all-out.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "A woman."


    Ange: "Fuck! Fuck!!!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Can you calm down first? I don''t dare to continue if you keep on behaving like this..."


    Ange: "Alright, I''ll calm down. [Light a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "[Light a cigarette]"


    Ange: "So, did you reject her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No I ran"


    Ange: "Why did you run away? If you don''t like her, just reject her!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I I got scared"


    Ange: "Don''t tell me you like the other party?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...I don''t know"


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan could confidently say to Murong Shi that she did not like women. However, after Murong Shi''s repeated attempts to question her, she started finding it difficult to say so.


    Previously, Xu Chuanchuan thought she had failed to give a curt response because of her anxiety. However, even after leaving the restaurant for some time, her heart remained chaotic and confused.


    Ange; "You don''t know??? Didn''t you like men???? Since when did you get bent?!?!?!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m not bent. [Cry]"


    Ange: "I thought something was off with you some time ago. Sure enough, I hit the mark. [Light a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ve never fallen in love before. I''m just feeling a little uneasy. [Aggrieved]"


    Ange: "Is the girl who confessed to you beautiful?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Mhm"


    Ange: "Don''t tell me it''s your boss''s daughter?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: ""


    Ange: "Really?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Yes."


    Ange: "Fuck, fuck, fuck!!! How am I so amazing!!!"


    After Ange let loose a series of "fucks," the two of them finally calmed down and returned to the main topic. Then, Xu Chuanchuan told Ange about the kissing incident in the past and the details of what took ce at the dinner party just now.


    Ange fell into a long silence after hearing about these details.


    Growing uneasy, Xu Chuanchuan urged: "Say something."


    Ange: "Sorry. I went downstairs to buy some cigarettes just now. Do you want one?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...No, thank you."


    Ange: "It''s certain now that she has feelings for you, but do you like her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I don''t think I like her."


    Ange: "You think?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I really don''t know But I don''t hate her What does it feel like to like a person?"


    Ange: "If you like a person, you''ll find yourself having the urge to sneak peeks at the other party. You''ll constantly think of the other party when you can''t see them. You''ll also be very easily affected by their mood. You''ll feel sad when you see them crying, and you''ll feel happy when you see them smiling. You will want to try to be close to them, yet you will also be afraid of getting too close to them. You will be easily flustered when you''re in front of them. Sometimes, you will even do very dumb things because of the other party. [Light a cigarette]"


    The things Ange mentioned were too vague. When Xu Chuanchuan ced herself in these situations, she found that apart from "sneaking peeks" and "easily flustered," she did not fit in any of the other criteria.


    <em>Does this mean I don''t like Murong Shi?</em>


    Ange: "There are also different degrees of liking someone. However, after all is said and done, only you will know exactly how you feel of her."


    Xu Chuanchuan closed her eyes and pondered for several minutes. Eventually, she came to a conclusion.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I understand. I will make things clear with her."


    Xu Chuanchuan was grateful toward Ange. After having this conversation, she no longer felt as depressed as she did before.


    Ange: "Tang''er, I''m sad."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What''s wrong?"


    Ange: "How can you get bent, just like that? You clearly said you woulde to look for me first when you get bent."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "*Cough* I''m not bent. Really. I''ll find a chance to set things straight with her."


    Unfortunately, when the opportunity to set things straight eventually arrived, Xu Chuanchuan still found herself unable to speak.

 Chapter 49: Pt.2

    Chapter 49: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t fall asleep no matter what. Then, when it was close to midnight, she suddenly heard loud crashing soundsing from the living room outside. Then, she heard Little Yan eximing. Thinking that an ident had urred, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly dashed out of the room.


    When Xu Chuanchuan found Murong Shi lying on the sofa, though, she paused.


    Little Yan had gone to great lengths to settle Murong Shi on the sofa. While she was crouching down and picking up the trash can and drinking cups she had identally knocked over, she caught sight of Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she hurriedly said, "Chuanchuan, did I wake you up?"


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly returned to her senses and said, "It''s okay. I haven''t slept yet. What''s wrong with your shirt?"


    Hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s question, Little Yan pointed at her dirtied shirt and said, "I spilled some red wine just now. It''s so disgusting."


    "Then, hurry up and take a bath first."


    After taking a nce at Murong Shi, Little Yan said, "I''d better wipe her off first."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but turn to look at the person on the sofa. Currently, Murong Shi had her hair loosely spread out. Her eyes were also shut, looking like she had already fallen asleep.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was in a daze, Little Yan said to her, "Chuanchuan, help me keep an eye on her and don''t let her fall. I''ll go get a tub of water."


    "Oh, okay." Xu Chuanchuan quietly made her way to the sofa.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan hurriedly made her way to the bathroom.


    After switching an angle, Xu Chuanchuan looked down at Murong Shi''s pale face. Then, she muttered to herself, "You actually drank until thiste of an hour? It seems you can hold your alcohol quite well."


    As if having heard Xu Chuanchuan''s voice, Murong Shi suddenly opened her eyes.


    Caught off guard, Xu Chuanchuan ended up meeting Murong Shi''s eyes. Then, she hurriedly stepped back in a panic.


    The next moment, Murong Shi suddenly said, "Little Yan, pour me a ss of water."


    <em>Did she mistake me for Little Yan? It seems she''s pretty drunk after all. </em>Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "There''s no water for you to drink."


    Murong Shi frowned. Then, she shut her eyes again.


    As it so happened, Little Yan came walking out of the bathroom at this time, a tub of water in her hands. Having overheard Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Little Yan asked, "What are you two talking about?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan shifted her gaze away and said, "She wants to drink water, but we don''t have any boiled water. Why don''t I boil a pot for her?"


    "No, I have a bottle of leftover mineral water in my room. It''s on the bedside table. Can you get it for me?"


    "Sure."


    When Xu Chuanchuan returned with the bottled water, Little Yan had already started wiping Murong Shi''s face with a wet towel. While wiping, sheined, "I told you not to drink so much, yet you still insisted on drinking."


    Now that Xu Chuanchuan knew about the rtionship between Murong Shi and Little Yan, she felt that she no longer needed to avoid the two of them. So, she walked straight toward them and handed the bottled water to Little Yan.


    "Thanks," Little Yan said. Then, she twisted the cap open and pushed the bottle against Murong Shi''s face. "Water''s here. Do you still want to drink it?"


    Murong Shi opened her eyes once more. However, she didn''t move her mouth to the bottle''s mouth. Instead, she stared at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Who is she?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Little Yan was also rendered speechless when she heard Murong Shi''s question. Then, she said, "What kind of look is that? She''s Chuanchuan."


    "Chuanchuan?" Murong Shi suddenly tried to sit upright when she heard Little Yan''s answer. Unfortunately, she couldn''t put any strength into her body, so she ended up lying on the sofa. And with her eyes still focused on Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said to Little Yan, "Little Yan, go away for a moment."


    "Go away? Where should I go to?"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan or Little Yan could react, Murong Shi suddenly stretched out her hand and held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist.


    "I have something to say to her."


    <em>You''re already so drunk. Can you even say anything clearly? </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself.


    Little Yan was still a little dazed by the situation, but sensing the weird atmosphere flowing between her cousin sister and her roommate, she vaguely guessed what was going on. However, she didn''t pry too deeply into the matter. After a brief sh appeared in her eyes, she said, "Ohh! I just remembered I needed to take a shower! Chuanchuan, help me look after her first. Thanks!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>I didn''t agree to this!!!</em>


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could voice any objections, Little Yan had already fled back to her room to grab a change of clothes. When she was on her way to the bathroom and passed by the living room again, she deliberately said, "You two take your time. I''ll wash up very slowly."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>I don''t think there''s anything I can say to a drunk person.</em>


    After Little Yan left, the atmosphere in the living room immediately froze. Moving her wrist a little, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Let go of me first."


    Unfortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, although Murong Shi had gotten so drunk that the tone of her voice had changed, her mind remained clear. Then, she said, "You''re going to run again if I let go."


    Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly rubbed her nose at having her thoughts seen through.


    Currently, Murong Shi did not show as much aggressiveness as before. Only, she used quite a lot of force when gripping Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist as she was worried that the other party would run away once again.


    Meanwhile, when Xu Chuanchuan recalled the conversation she had with Ange, she took a deep breath and crouched down, putting herself at eye level with Murong Shi.


    Xu Chuanchuan intended to use this opportunity to set things straight with Murong Shi.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan looked into Murong Shi''s affectionate eyes, the words she had prepared to say suddenly found themselves stuck in her throat. Even after opening and closing her mouth several times, she still couldn''t say a single word.


    <em>Maybe the timing isn''t right. Forget it. I''ll say it next time.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan thought to run away.


    However, seemingly having realized Xu Chuanchuan''s intentions, Murong Shi further tightened her grip. Then, disregarding Xu Chuanchuan''s struggles, Murong Shi said, "There''s no one else here now."


    So? Xu Chuanchuan was a little slow to react to what Murong Shi was trying to say. When she realized it, though, her face instantly turned bright red as she quietly said, "We can''t."


    "Why?" Murong Shi said in a soft and aggrieved voice.


    The temptation of beauty was simply too powerful. Right now, Xu Chuanchuan was no longer able to think properly. She also dared not look at Murong Shi''s eyes, so she turned her head toward the bathroom''s direction.


    "We opened many bottles of wer on," Murong Shi suddenly said.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What?"


    Murong Shi curled up her lips. Then, a gleam briefly appeared in her dark eyes as she said, "They were all expensive wines. We opened box after box. There were a lot of leftovers by the end of the party, and all of them got wasted."


    "Uh, why are you telling me this?" Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find Murong Shi''s words to be incoherent.


    Then, revealing a faint smile, Murong Shi asked, "Don''t you want to know how those wines tasted?"


    "NotUu"


    The instant Xu Chuanchuan had her lips sealed, she subconsciously thought to herself, <em>This is the second time.</em>


    The same incident had taken ce at the same ce and in the same drunken state


    When Murong Shi''s soft tongue came probing into her mouth and Xu Chuanchuan tasted the taste of red wine, only one thought came to her mind, <em>Why does this wine taste like chicken?</em>


    While Xu Chuanchuan was in a daze, she suddenly felt her lower lip being gently bit. Then, she heard Murong Shi''s hoarse voice saying, "Close your eyes, dummy."


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently closed her eyes, only to open them again a short momentter as she finally reacted to the situation.


    <em>Wait! That''s not right! Why am Iplying with her words?!</em>


    <em>I need to push her away!!!</em>


    <em>Something terrible is going to happen if I don''t push her away!!!</em>


    <em>Little Yan is still in the shower! If shees out and finds us like...thiswe''ll be finished!!!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan started gathering all of her strength into her hands. Then, she ced her hands onto Murong Shi''s shoulders and pushed.


    However, Murong Shi did not budge


    When Murong Shi enveloped Xu Chuanchuan''s tongue and gave it a gentle suck, Xu Chuanchuan''s body immediately turned limp...


    Xu Chuanchuan did not know how the kiss eventually ended. As soon as she found her lips freed, she immediately fled back to her room. The only thing she knew was that her legs were limp, her tongue was numb, and her lips were swollen. _(:)_


    When Xu Chuanchuan threw herself onto the bed, she listened to her thundering heartbeat and dared not think about anything.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan covered her head with her nket and buried her burning face into the pillow, pretending as if she was dead.


    <em>Ring, ring</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly got a heart attack when she heard thendline phone suddenly ringing while she was in a daze. Then, picking up the phone in a panic, she said, "Hello?"


    "Would you like some milk?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body shook. When she nced at the caller ID disyed on the phone, she realized that Murong Shi was calling her through thepany''s internal line. Then, she hung up without hesitation.


    The phone didn''t ring again. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan could no longer sit still.


    The moment Xu Chuanchuan heard Murong Shi''s voice, memories of that night promptly flooded her mind.


    After their lips separated, Murong Shi had looked at Xu Chuanchuan with a mischievous smile and asked, "Is the wine good?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan became dumbfounded.


    Murong Shi gently scraped Xu Chuanchuan''s red and swollen lips. Then, she affectionately said, "So you like to be passive."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to wonder whether Murong Shi was actually drunk or not. After snapping out of her daze, she scurried back to her room like a frightened little rabbit.


    The following day, Xu Chuanchuan received a text message from Murong Shi, saying: "I will give you two days to consider."


    <em>Consider what?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that she must''ve been possessed. She had clearly made up her mind to make things straight with Murong Shi, so why did she still end up getting kissed in the end?


    Xu Chuanchuan was also the first to flee the scene. Though, she had no choice but to run, as she truly did not possess the moral high ground this time. After all, their kiss hadsted a full five minutes, yet not once did she sessfully push Murong Shi away...


    Xu Chuanchuan regretted her decision to confront Murong Shi so much that she banged her head against her desk.


    Meanwhile, when her colleagues noticed her strange behavior, one of them asked, "Little Xu, are you alright?"


    "I-I''m fine..." Xu Chuanchuan said dizzily.


    <em>I need to wash my face and freshen up.</em>


    Using her desk as support, Xu Chuanchuan slowly got up from her seat. However, before she could take even one step away from her desk, her department chief suddenly approached her and said, "Little Xu, Miss Murong has something she needs your help with."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s spirits sharpened instantly, and she blurted out, "I''m busy!"


    "What did you say?"


    Hesitantly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I...I feel ufortable. I have a headache."


    "You''re holding your stomach," the department manager said, frowning.


    "Y-Yes, so I need to go to the toilet right away!"


    Xu Chuanchuan had defied her superior''s orders for the first time since she started working in thispany.


    However, after lying and sessfully avoiding a face-to-face meeting with Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan eventually came to regret her actions.


    ...


    During the lunch break, Xu Chuanchuan returned to the dormitory to rest after finishing her lunch. When she opened the front door and stepped into the apartment, she immediately saw Murong Shi sitting on the living room sofa.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could turn around and run away, Murong Shi strode forward and held down the door behind her. Then, Murong Shi looked down at Xu Chuanchuan, her eyes filled with concern as she asked in a gentle voice, "I heard you were feeling ufortable, so I came up to take a look."

 Chapter 50: Pt.1

    Chapter 50: Pt.1


    With the door being held down, it was already toote for Xu Chuanchuan to escape. Now, Xu Chuanchuan would have to either push Murong Shi away or sneak under Murong Shi''s arms. Otherwise, the two of them would continue remaining stuck in this situation.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan would rather choose to remain frozen than go for either of the aforementioned options. This was because she realized that so long as she made bodily contact with Murong Shi, nothing good woulde out of it.


    Then, while gradually sliding aside and putting as much distance as possible between herself and Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I-I''m fine."


    Murong Shi intently stared at Xu Chuanchuan''s face for a moment. Then, she asked, "Are you okay? Your face looks very red. Where are you feeling ufortable?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s neck stiffened, and her eyes wandered for a moment. Then, she said, "I...ran a little too quickly just now, so I''m feeling a little hot."


    "Then, let''s head over there and rest under the air conditioner," Murong Shi said as she moved to pull Xu Chuanchuan toward the living room.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan swiftly avoided Murong Shi''s approaching hand and said, "No need. My room is air-conditioned as well."


    Unfortunately, before Xu Chuanchuan could sneak out of Murong Shi''s encirclement, Murong Shi sessfully caught one of her wrists.


    Then, Murong Shi yfully said, "It seems you were lying about being ill."


    After Murong Shi made a gentle tug, Xu Chuanchuan found herself dragged back to her original position like a weak and helpless chick.


    "I even went through the trouble of preparing a bunch of medicine for you, you liar," Murong Shi said, baring her fangs.


    As Xu Chuanchuan didn''t hold the moral high ground in this situation, she timidly shrank her neck. She didn''t even dare to ask what kind of medicine Murong Shi had prepared.


    "You hung up on me today," Murong Shi said.


    "Did I? When did you call me? I don''t seem to remember," Xu Chuanchuan said, pretending to be dumb.


    Murong Shi did not intend to expose Xu Chuanchuan''s lie. Instead, she slowly said, "It''s been two days. Are you done considering?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan innocently blinked as she said, "Consider what? I don''t understand what you''re saying."


    A sharp glint appeared in Murong Shi''s eyes when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s response. Then, bending down slightly, she whispered into the shorter woman''s ear, "I''ll kiss you again right now."


    "I''ll call the police!" Xu Chuanchuan''splexion instantly changed.


    Murong Shi smiled ambiguously.


    "Call the police?"


    Suddenly, a third person''s voice joined in on the conversation.


    Turning toward this third person''s voice, Xu Chuanchuan saw Little Yan walking out of the bathroom. Xu Chuanchuan panicked at this discovery, and she reflexively pushed Murong Shi away.


    While shaking off the residue water on her hand, Little Yan looked toward Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan, saying, "Chuanchuan, you''re back."


    "Mhm." Xu Chuanchuan nodded in a fluster. She worried that Little Yan had seen the ambiguous scene just now.


    Fortunately, Little Yan didn''t suspect a thing as she asked, "Are you not feeling well?"


    <em>I shouldn''t recklessly lie in the future</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt vexed when she realized how much trouble her little lie had brought to her. Then, she quickly nced at Murong Shi before smiling at Little Yan, "I''m alright now, thank you for your concern. I''m feeling a little sleepy, so I''ll go in and lie down for a while."


    Now that Little Yan had appeared, Murong Shi didn''t seem to dare mess around too much. So, Xu Chuanchuan sessfully avoided her this time. However, Xu Chuanchuan still didn''t feel relieved even after returning to her room, so she also locked the door behind her.


    After several minutes had gone by, Xu Chuanchuan heard movementing from the front door, and she guessed that Murong Shi must''ve left the apartment. Then, whileying on her bed, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought of the matter Murong Shi told her to consider. Consequently, all of her sleepiness had vanished without a trace.


    Murong Shi did not rify what exactly she wanted Xu Chuanchuan to consider. Xu Chuanchuan also dared not ask too many questions.


    Xu Chuanchuan very much wished that she possessed the supernatural ability to conceal herself. After all, so long as Murong Shi couldn''t find her, she would be safe.


    Unfortunately, that wasn''t possible.


    As Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t get much rest because of Murong Shi, she ended up feeling groggy in the afternoon, and she frequently dozed off at her desk. When she thought about how much work she had left, she couldn''t help but grow anxious.


    There wasn''t anything in the drawers that could help refresh her mind, so Xu Chuanchuan thought to visit the pantry and to see if she could get herself a cup of coffee.


    Xu Chuanchuan walked carefully on her way to the pantry. While passing by Murong Shi''s office, she even deliberately hastened her footsteps.


    Fortunately, she didn''t get caught.


    Failing to find any coffee in the pantry, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to settle for a cup of strong tea. While she was washing the tea leaves, her phone that was hanging from her neck suddenly rang.


    Xu Chuanchuan absentmindedly took a look at her phone. When she saw the word "Murong" disyed on the screen, she got so scared that she nearly knocked over the cup in front of her.


    <em>Should I pick it up?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had lied and evaded Murong Shi once in the morning. This time, she honestly couldn''t find a reason not to answer Murong Shi''s call. So, after calming her nerves, she picked up the call.


    "Making tea?" Murong Shi asked in azy voice, sounding as if she was a cat that had just woken up from a nap.


    When that cotton-like voice prated her right ear, Xu Chuanchuan found her body bing strange.


    Noticing her throat was slightly parched, Xu Chuanchuan gulped down the saliva in her mouth. Then, she suddenly reacted to Murong Shi''s words as she asked, "How do you know I''m making tea?"


    "I have the wholepany''s surveince system disyed on theputer beside me. So unless you hide into the restrooms, I can immediately find out where you are and what you are doing in thepany."


    Xu Chuanchuan had forgotten about the surveince system, so so she was momentarily rendered speechless. Then, after some time had passed and she regained her calm, sheined, "You''re spying on me."


    However, in a righteous tone, Murong Shi replied, "It is both my right and responsibility to monitor my employees. Also, if I don''t monitor you, how would I know if you''re doing your job properly?"


    "I... Of course I am doing my job properly."


    "Is that so?" Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "It''s been less than an hour since you returned to work, yet you''ve already daydreamed over a dozen times in front of yourputer. At one time, you even stuffed a stapler into your mouth, thinking it was the chocte your colleague gave you."


    <em>Does this mean she''s been spying on me since I returned to the office? </em>Xu Chuanchuan suddenly got goosebumps at this thought. Then, in a surprised tone, she asked, "Since when did you be so free?"


    Sighing, Murong Shi said, "Not at all. I''m swamped. So, can I please trouble you to bring a cup of coffee to my office?"


    "Why me? Where''s Little Yan?"


    "Little Yan is still unfamiliar with her responsibilities, so I had her tag along with the Business Department''s assistant for the day. What? Are you unwilling?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan shook the tea leaves in the cup for a moment before saying, "The pantry is out of coffee."


    "It''s fine. I have some here. I''m alone right now, soe and pick it up."


    Murong Shi had deliberately suppressed her voice when saying thest sentence, making it seem like she was talking about some unspeakable secrets.


    When Xu Chuanchuan heard Murong Shi''s voice that was full of temptation, she felt her right ear growing unbearably itchy and her face warming up. Fortunately, nobody was in the pantry to see her strange behavior. Even so, she dared not make any strange movements as she knew Murong Shi must be monitoring her actions right now.


    <em>She''s definitely doing this on purpose. </em>Xu Chuanchuan mentally warned herself not to get tricked. Then, she firmly said, "I refuse."


    "Tsk. Say that again?"


    <em>Camera Where''s the camera</em>


    After searching for some time, Xu Chuanchuan eventually found the surveince camera spying on her. Then, she puffed up her chest, lifted her face, and said, "I! Refuse!"


    In her glee, Xu Chuanchuan even made a silly face at the camera.


    No more sound came through the phone. However, the call did not get disconnected, either.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi should be making a scary face right now, she wasn''t afraid!


    Xu Chuanchuan always found herself overwhelmed whenever she conversed with Murong Shi. Now that she finally got to get back at the other party, she couldn''t help but feel happy.


    Without allowing Murong Shi to retaliate, Xu Chuanchuan unterally ended the call. Then, she resumed making her tea in a happy mood.


    After washing the tea leaves, Xu Chuanchuan found that the water still hadn''t boiled. While she was waiting for the water to boil, someone pped her shoulder and yelled into her ear, "Little Xu!"


    Xu Chuanchuan was given a fright. Subsequently, the cup in her hands fell to the ground and shattered into pieces.


    The person who surprised Xu Chuanchuan was Chen Lina.


    Chen Lina never expected Xu Chuanchuan to have such an intense reaction. While picking up the shattered ss, she apologized, saying, "Sorry, sorry. I saw you were smirking all by yourself, so I thought to prank you a little."


    Xu Chuanchuan had been thinking about Murong Shi''s reaction after she hung up, so she had been a little distracted.


    "I''ll buy you a new cup tomorrow."


    "No, no, you don''t need to do that. I still have a stic thermos cup on my desk."


    With an embarrassed look on her face, Chen Lina said, "I''m really sorry, Little Xu."


    "It''s okay."


    The disposable cups in the pantry weren''t suitable for making tea, so Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to return to her office to get her thermos. However, when she passed by Murong Shi''s office again, she couldn''t help but nce at the door with a guilty feeling.


    However, as if the door was sensor operated, it suddenly opened at this time!


    Upon seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan''s first reaction was torun!

 Chapter 50: Pt.2

    Chapter 50: Pt.2


    As if the door was sensor operated, it suddenly opened at this time!


    Upon seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan''s first reaction was torun!


    However, as Xu Chuanchuan was about to enact her great escape, she saw Murong Shi standing behind the door with her arms wrapped around her chest. Currently, Murong Shi wore an unkind gaze as she stared at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly dismissed her thoughts out of fear. Then, awkwardly rubbing her nose, she said, "I...came to make your coffee."


    Murong Shi turned around and walked back into the office without a word.


    Meanwhile, after looking around and making sure that nobody else was present, Xu Chuanchuan strode into the office and gently closed the door behind her.


    The coffee stick and mug were already ced on the desk. Xu Chuanchuan guessed that had she refused to enter, Murong Shi would''ve made the coffee herself regardless.


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to reach for the items, she heard Murong Shi asking, "Are you hurt anywhere?"


    Xu Chuanchuan guessed that Murong Shi must''ve seen the scene in the pantry just now through this question. Then, shaking her head, she said, "No."


    The mug was clean, so there wasn''t a need to wash it. After tearing open the coffee stick, Xu Chuanchuan poured the coffee powder into the cup.


    At this time, Murong Shi suddenly leaned over and touched Xu Chuanchuan''s scalding earlobe. Then, she softly said, "Xu Chuanchuan, it seems you''re quite unrestrained today."


    Ever since Murong Shi had licked <em>that </em>part of her body, Xu Chuanchuan found that her ear had be exceptionally sensitive. Hence, when Murong Shi''s chilly finger touched her earlobe, she subconsciously wanted to scream. However, she eventually held it in.


    After moving away slightly and putting some distance between the two of them, Xu Chuanchuan pulled a long face and said, "But I''m not?"


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes dangerously. Then, she coldly said, "You''ve hung up my call twice and disobeyed me twice. Isn''t that considered acting unrestrainedly?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes flickered as she muttered, "I..."


    "You''re simply relying on the fact that I like you."


    Unlike the previous confession, Murong Shi had mentioned the word "like" this time. Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened in shock when she heard this word. Then, looking at Murong Shi in a daze, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You like me?"


    Murong Shi quickly realized her blunder. After falling into deep thought for a moment, she said, "Actually, I don''t particrly like you."


    "..."


    "Don''t go; I still haven''t finished speaking," Murong Shi said, suppressing herughter as she held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist. Then, after letting her gaze stay on the shorter woman''s face for a moment, she unhurriedly said, "I dislike dragging my feet. It is also rare for me to hold affection toward someone. But, since I''ve found such a person now, I don''t want to waste time."


    Murong Shi appeared quite scary when she got serious, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find herself at a loss when Murong Shi''s slender eyes gazed upon her. Then, Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away and said with difficulty, "What if we find each other to be a bad match after we try dating? Wouldn''t that be a waste of time?"


    "If I don''t try it, there won''t even be a chance to speak of," Murong Shi curtly replied.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t expect Murong Shi to answer so quickly and decisively, so she momentarily found herself at a loss for words.


    Murong Shi was currently blocking her vision, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see the water dispenser. Then, deliberately changing the topic, she asked, "Have you boiled the water yet?"


    Instead of humoring Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi took away the cup in the other party''s hand. Then, after pondering for a short moment, Murong Shi forced Xu Chuanchuan to look up at her and said, "Fang Qin once warned me not to provoke straight women, so I nearly gave up on pursuing you some time ago."


    "..." When Xu Chuanchuan heard this, she realized why Murong Shi had suddenly started giving her the cold shoulder some time ago, going as far as to put her in an embarrassing situation in front of thepany''s leaders.


    "I also admit that I''ve been a little impulsive on the night I got drunk. Even so, I strongly believe in my judgment. As evidence, if you don''t have any feelings for me, you wouldn''t have stared at me throughout the entire dinner party that day."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan found it incredibly embarrassing to have her actions exposed. However, she also didn''t want to let Murong Shi keep on leading the conversation, so she quickly thought of an excuse and said, "...The dress you wore that day looked beautiful."


    Murong Shi smiled, her smile looking extraordinarily beautiful. Then, she said, "Thank you. You are also very cute yourself."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>What is this nonsense? Why did we suddenly start praising each other?</em>


    Murong Shi took a step forward.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan took a step backward, only to have her waist bump into the desk behind her. Then, just as Xu Chuanchuan worried whether she had knocked over the mug, Murong Shi suddenly wrapped her arms around her waist.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s breathing froze.


    Fortunately, Murong Shi quickly let go. Then, putting on a malicious smile, she gazed at Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and said, "It''s meaty. It feels quite good to the touch."


    Xu Chuanchuan inwardly cursed at Murong Shi. Then, with reddened cheeks, she grabbed the mug and made her way to the water dispenser.


    Shortly afterward, the strong aroma of coffee filled the room. While stirring the coffee with a spoon, Xu Chuanchuan made sure to stay on constant alert in case a certain someone decided tounch another surprise attack.


    In the end, though, Xu Chuanchuan''s efforts were pointless as Murong Shi did not mess around, probably because she was holding hot water.


    At this realization, Xu Chuanchuan started hesitating. Wouldn''t that mean Murong Shi would mess around again once she put the mug down?


    Currently, Murong Shi leaned against her desk while reading some documents, her long and slender legs casually ovepping each other. She had also allowed her long hair to spread out and cover half of her face, giving her a soft and artistic look.


    Xu Chuanchuan found the sight to be truly beautiful, and she couldn''t help but have the urge to pull out her phone and take a photo.


    After Xu Chuanchuan continued her silent observation for a moment, Murong Shi suddenly looked over and beckoned at her, saying, "Come here."


    Xu Chuanchuan dragged her feet as she walked over. When she was putting down the coffee, Murong Shi''s palm suddenly covered the back of her hand. However, after making physical contact, Murong Shi made no other movements.


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to speak but stopped.


    A momentter, Murong Shi took the initiative and said, "Xu Chuanchuan, let''s give it a try."


    Despite having mentally prepared herself, Xu Chuanchuan was still frightened by Murong Shi''s words. Then, curling her fingers slightly, she said, "I..."


    "You don''t need to hurry to deny me. If you still aren''t sure, I can give you more time."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mind was still nk. Unable to think properly, she ended up subconsciously nodding to Murong Shi''s suggestion.


    "Is one week enough?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan realized what she had agreed to, she couldn''t help but be frightened by herself.


    <em>Heavens! Why did I agree to it so hastily?!?!</em>


    "I-I-I"


    Murong Shi didn''t give Xu Chuanchuan a chance to speak. Unable to hide the mirth in her eyes, she said, "Stop with the ''I''s. Go back to work."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan ended up getting pushed to the door.


    "Wait a minute."


    Xu Chuanchuan stopped her footsteps.


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan with interest, Murong Shi said, "Tell me how it felt."


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What do you mean?"


    In response, Murong Shi put one of her hands on Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulder while her other hand gently touched Xu Chuanchuan''s lips. Then, she said in a deep voice, "When I kissed you that day."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned red. Then, pretending to be calm, she said, "...I didn''t feel anything."


    Frowning, Murong Shi said, "How can you not feel anything? You obviously liked it very much, so much so that your bones turned to mush. You even refused to leave my arms."


    "That''s because you didn''t let me get up!" Xu Chuanchuan said, gritting her teeth. She found Murong Shi''s nonchnt appearance to be truly annoying. Then, she said, "I meant what I said! I didn''t feel anything!"


    Murong Shi clicked her tongue at Xu Chuanchuan''s reply. However, she didn''t get angry at the other party. Instead, she looked toward the door and asked, "Did you lock the door on your way in?"


    "No?"


    "Go lock it."


    "Oh, okay." Xu Chuanchuan pushed Murong Shi''s hand away and resumed walking toward the door. Then, after taking a few steps, she turned around and asked, "Why lock it?"


    In response, Murong Shi pointed at her lips and said, "I''ll let you remember that feeling again."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression changed slightly. After leaving behind a "bye-bye," she fled the office without further dy.


    ...


    After Xu Chuanchuan returned to her desk, she found that she was no longer sleepy. So, after sorting out her mood, she set out to do her remaining work.


    While busying, she suddenly heard her phone ringing.


    Thinking that she had received a spam message, Xu Chuanchuan did not pay any attention to it. However, when she eventually picked up her phone while she was taking a short break from work, she found that rather than a spam message, she had received a friend request on WeChat instead. To be precise, it was a friend request from Murong Shi.


    <em>Could this be considered the first step in our development?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan briefly nced at her surroundings. After making sure that everyone was busy, she gently moved her finger and tapped on the "Agree" button.


    The next second, a message came from Murong Shi: "Let''s have dinner together tonight."


    <em>Uh, isn''t this a little too fast?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Is that a good idea?"


    Murong Shi: "If you''re still not used to it, I can call Little Yan along as well."


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan replied with an "Okay."


    <em>Could this be considered our first date? But I never heard of anyone bringing a third wheel on a date.</em>


    <em>Even so, having Little Yan around is better. At the very least, it''ll be easy to exin ourselves if other colleagues happen to see us.</em>


    After thest dinner party, someone had ended up exposing the secret of Little Yan being Murong Shi''s cousin. So, everyone in thepany knew about this secret now. Because of this, Murong Shi and Little Yan also decided to drop the act altogether.


    The venue of their date was a Chaoshan Beef Restaurant located near thepany. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel embarrassed at the mention of this ce. Initially, she had intended to bring Murong Shi to this restaurant the first time she had treated the other party to a meal. Yet, because of traffic, they had ended up eating mtang instead.


    Little Yan was very excited when she arrived in front of the restaurant. Then, she said, "I love eating beef the most. What about you, Chuanchuan? Do you like beef?"


    Chuckling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I like it, too."


    After the two gluttons exchanged high-fives, Little Yan said, "Cousin is treating today, so no need to be polite with her! Make sure to eat as much as you can!"


    Evidently, Little Yan didn''t know that she was the extra in the dinner today. Putting on a polite smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Okay."


    "Can you handle spicy food?"


    "I can."


    "I''ll order someter, then."


    Murong Shi felt dissatisfied at being ignored. Then, she coldly said, "Little Yan, I find that your head looks awfully shiny today."[1]


    However, misunderstanding her cousin''s words, Little Yan hurriedly picked up a napkin and wiped her forehead. Then, she shyly said, "The hotpot is a little too hot, so my head got a little oily."


    Feeling helpless, Murong Shi said, "I''m not bringing you along next time."


    "Why?"


    "It''s fine. If she doesn''t treat you, I''ll treat you instead," Xu Chuanchuan said in constion.


    "Oh yeah! Chuanchuan, you''re the best!" Little Yan hugged Xu Chuanchuan.


    Murong Shi stared at the two people in front of her unhappily.


    Noticing this, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly lowered her head.


    With Little Yan around, Murong Shi didn''t have any opportunities to converse with Xu Chuanchuan at all. Noticing Murong Shi''s depressed look, Xu Chuanchuan interrupted Little Yan''s endless chatter and said, "Are you two really cousins?"


    In an excited tone, Little Yan said, "That''s right. Don''t you believe me, Chuanchuan?"


    In all honesty, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t doubt the rtionship between Murong Shi and Little Yan. However, she still couldn''t help but be curious about the strange noises she heard during those two nights, so she thought to use this opportunity to rify the situation.


    Meanwhile, after hearing Xu Chuanchuan bringing up those noises, Little Yan took a bite of beef and a mouthful of soup before saying, "Oh, that time? Cousin was giving me a massage."


    "A...massage?"


    "Yeah. I keep lowering my head when ying with my phone, so my shoulders and neck were in bad shape. When Iined about it, Cousin offered to give me a massage. But she put so much strength into her hands that I thought I was going to die."


    "So, that''s the case." When Xu Chuanchuan came to a realization, she couldn''t help but berate herself for overthinking things.


    Halfway through the meal, Little Yan made a trip to the restroom. Meanwhile, seeing that her opportunity had finally arrived, Murong Shi moved closer to Xu Chuanchuan and spread out her arms, looking as if she was about to hug the shorter woman.


    "What are you doing?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, shrinking back in fright.


    A trace of sadness shed across Murong Shi''s eyes. Then, with a gloomy face, she said, "She can hug you, so why can''t I?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan heard this, she couldn''t help but feel like she had wronged Murong Shi. Putting on an awkward smile, she grabbed a piece of brisket with her chopsticks and pushed it to Murong Shi''s mouth. "This one is super delicious."


    Although Murong Shi ended up eating the brisket, herplexion remained terrible. Then, she grumpily said, "I''m never taking her with us next time."


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had seen Murong Shi putting on such a grumpy expression. However, she also dared notugh, so she picked the most tender piece of meat and put it into Murong Shi''s bowl, evidently trying to please the other party.


    Meanwhile, after eating two pieces of meat served by Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi''s mood finally turned for the better. Then, pointing her chin at the vegetables on the table, she said, "I want to eat that."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan was too engrossed with her own meal. Without even lifting her head, she said, "Grab it yourself."


    "..."


    TL Notes:


    [1]head looks awfully shiny today: By saying this, Murong Shi is subtly hinting that Little Yan''s head looks like a light bulb. In Chinese ng, the term light bulb ( dindngpo) is synonymous with the term "third wheel."

 Chapter 51: Pt.1

    Chapter 51: Pt.1


    Murong Shi had a small appetite. So, she graciously helped the two gluttons at the table cook the ingredients. However, after cooking the ingredients, she served most of the food into Xu Chuanchuan''s bowl.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan thought Murong Shi was taking revenge on her over her refusal to serve her vegetables. However, she realized that wasn''t the cake after taking a look at Murong Shi''s behavior. Whenever Murong Shi served a piece of meat to her, Murong Shi would intimately say, "Quickly eat it. It''ll be tough to chew once it gets cold."


    Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan found that a pile of meat had formed in her bowl in no time at all. Unsure whether she shouldugh or cry, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Hey, stop serving me food. I really can''t eat so much."


    Revealing a stunned expression, Murong Shi said, "But you were able to finish two people''s portions when we went to eat mtangst time."


    "..." At the mention of this embarrassing event, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but bite down on her chopsticks in shame and said, "I''m going on a diet starting today."


    "Hey, hey, hey, this is too much," Little Yanined as she tapped her empty bowl. "Cousin, why are you serving only Chuanchuan and not me?"


    Then, Murong Shi nonchntly sent Little Yan a nce and said, "You have long arms and legs. You can do it yourself."


    "Hmph!" Little Yan harrumphed.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan received a critical hit when she looked at her short arms.


    The mealsted over an hour. Because they still had to go to work the next day, they didn''t go shopping after the meal. Instead, Murong Shi dropped Xu Chuanchuan and Little Yan off in her car.


    Xu Chuanchuan and Little Yan had a merry conversation with each other at the back of the car.


    "My little sister''s personality is a bit like yours, but you''re much cuter than her."


    "Is she currently attending university?" Little Yan asked, her eyes glowing with interest.


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "That''s right, but her grades are terrible."


    "My grades aren''t that good, either."


    Xu Chuanchuan found out that Little Yan had just finished her National College Entrance Examination recently through their previous conversation. And as she had nothing better to do at home, she came to Murong Shi asking to get some working experience ahead of time. However, as Little Yan was afraid of others gossiping about her, she asked Murong Shi to keep her identity a secret. Xu Chuanchuan also couldn''t help but admit that the two were very good at acting, seeing as how even she had been yed for a fool before.


    "Your exam results shoulde out soon, right?"


    "It already got released a few days ago. I also checked the results."


    "How many points did you get?"


    "Just 633."[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped when she heard Little Yan''s answer, her eyes widening in shock. Then, she eximed, "Little Yan, you''re too modest!"


    Little Yan put on an abashed smile and said, "It''s okay. It''s way worsepared to Cousin''s score, though. Back then, her score could get her into even Tsinghua University, but she ended up not going."


    "Why?" Xu Chuanchuan asked as she turned toward the driver in front.


    In response, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "I just wanted to be closer to home."


    Xu Chuanchuan already knew that Murong Shi was an academic powerhouse when she overheard the conversation between Xu Xiangxiang and Murong Shi. So, she didn''t find Little Yan''s words to be too shocking.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help but fall into contemtion at this revtion. Murong Shi was someone with good looks, a wealthy family, and solid capabilities. Logically, such a capable person should have no reason to like an ordinary person like herself.


    Eventually, the car arrived at thepany entrance. After cheerfully opening getting out of the car, Little Yan said, "I can finally take a shower and get rid of the smell of hot pot."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to open the door on her side. Then, just as she was about to get out through Little Yan''s side, she suddenly heard Murong Shi saying, "Little Yan, you go up first."


    Pausing midway through her stretching, Little Yan asked, "What about Chuanchuan?"


    "I have something to say to her," Murong Shi said.


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned.


    Little Yan shifted her gaze between the two people in front of her. Then, she asked, "It''s already off-work hours. What do you have to say to her?"


    Pretending to be unhappy, Murong Shi said, "Don''t ask so many questions. Quickly head upstairs."


    "Oh, okay. You two take your time," Little Yan said as she reluctantly left.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan closed the opened door and asked, "What did you want to tell me?"


    Murong Shi did not answer immediately. Instead, she unfastened her seat belt and moved from the driver''s seat to Little Yan''s previous seat.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew nervous when she saw Murong Shi''s actions.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry when she saw Xu Chuanchuan shrinking toward the car door. "I''m not assaulting you, so what are you afraid of?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan straightened her body. Then, noticing that Murong Shi was staring intently at her, she asked, "Can you stop looking at me like that?"


    In response, Murong Shi turned off the lights in the car.


    Caught off guard, Xu Chuanchuan instinctively yelped when her surroundings darkened.


    "Shh" A warm breath brushed past Xu Chuanchuan''s neck and right cheek. Then, Xu Chuanchuan heard Murong Shi speaking softly into her right ear, "Are you satisfied now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan never expected Murong Shi to make such a move. Now that the lights were off, naturally, neither of them could look at each other.


    The darkness made people more defensive. Xu Chuanchuan stiffened her body and dared not make even the slightest of movement in the dark. Then, she subconsciously spoke in a lowered voice, "Hurry up and out with it. It''s gettingte."


    "Are you so reluctant to be with me?"


    "Uh... I didn''t mean that. You still need to drive back, and it''s dangerous to drive at night. It''ll also affect your sleeping schedule."


    "This is simple. I''ll spend the night with you two."


    Seeing as neither of them could see each other''s faces, Xu Chuanchuan boldly said, "Then you''ll have to sleep on the sofa."


    Murong Shiughed. Then, she said, "Okay, I don''t mind."


    "But the sofa is short and narrow. It definitely won''t fit you."


    "That''s a problem."


    "So, you"


    "Are you hinting me at something?" Murong Shi interrupted.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Hinting at what?"


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, she felt something cold enveloping her hand. When she realized that it was Murong Shi''s hand, she did her best to resist crying out in surprise.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heartbeat suddenly elerated. However, Murong Shi did not give Xu Chuanchuan any time to recover as she said, "Hinting that I can sleep on therge bed."


    "Huh?"


    "Have you ever entered Little Yan''s room?"


    "I did once. What about it?"


    "Did you notice that her bed is smaller than yours?"


    Thest time Xu Chuanchuan entered Little Yans'' room was to get a bottle of mineral water for the drunken Murong Shi. After recalling the sight of the room for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I think so."


    "So, only your room has a double bed."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see Murong Shi''s face, she could sense a fiery gaze staring at her in the dark. Then, she abruptly pushed Murong Shi''s hand away and blushed while saying, "Nonsense! I wasn''t hinting at anything!"


    Murong Shi''s mood would always brighten whenever she was teasing Xu Chuanchuan, and this time was no exception as Murong Shi. Unlike previous instances, though, Murong Shi did not restrain herughter.


    Fortunately, the lights were off. While caressing her boiling face with one hand, Xu Chuanchuan said in annoyance, "Can you notugh so loudly? Security is going toe to check in on us if you''re any louder."


    "Then, give me your hand."


    Xu Chuanchuan randomly grouped around in the dark. Then, suddenly, she heard Murong Shi saying in a low voice, "Are you trying to take advantage of the situation?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hand stiffened. Then, she dryly said, "S-Sorry..."


    The next second, Murong Shi held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand. Then, gently scraping her short nails against Xu Chuanchuan''s palm, Murong Shi said, "It''s okay. You probably touched the seat belt just now."


    "..." While struggling to retrieve her hand, Xu Chuanchuan grumpily said, "You''re annoying."


    Murong Shi flipped Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and tightly intertwined their fingers, not letting the other party break free at all.


    With their hands sped, it felt as if their hearts were stuck together. The experience was indescribably subtle for both parties.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew a little flustered, and she opened her mouth to speak.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could do so, though, she noticed a man walking in the direction of the car. The man was talking on the phone while walking. When the man passed by the car, he suddenly stopped a few seconds, seemingly attracted by the car''s elegant appearance. Only afterward did he slowly walk away.


    Fortunately, due to theck of lighting in the car, the man didn''t notice the two people sitting at the back of the vehicle.


    Xu Chuanchuan had started holding the breath the moment she noticed the man.


    The two people in the car had also tacitly stopped speaking. Only after seeing the man moving far away did Xu Chuanchuan let out a long sigh of relief.


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan heard a soft chuckleing from the person beside her. Then, using in a seductive voice, Murong Shi whispered into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear, "Don''t you think we look like we''re having an affair?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t in the mood to joke around. She had gotten so nervous before that she had started sweating. Then, she said, "Hurry up and go home."


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi had only been joking before. After all, Murong Shi didn''t have any spare clothes or toiletries prepared. There was no way she could spend the night in the dormitory.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi had also had her fill with teasing Xu Chuanchuan. After turning the lights back on, she watched Xu Chuanchuan leave the car.


    ...


    Overall, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she had a good time tonight.


    After returning to the dorm, Xu Chuanchuan immediately took a shower and happilyid down on her bed. But then, she suddenly remembered that she hadn''t typed a single word today.


    However, it was already quitete. Even if she worked till midnight, she wouldn''t get much work done, so Xu Chuanchuan dismissed the urge to turn on herputer.


    Xu Chuanchuan gently tapped on her phone, opened WeChat, and clicked on Murong Shi''s avatar. Then, she asked, "Are you home yet?"


    Ten minutester, Murong Shi replied: "Just arrived."


    <em>Sure enough, dating is a time-consuming affair. I''ve already washed up, yet she just arrived back home, </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself. Then, she replied: "Go wash up and rest early. Good night."


    Murong Shi: "Good night."


    ...


    In the next few days, the two of them ended up eating dinner together every night. They usually ate in nearby restaurants that served good food, and the two of them took turns footing the bill.


    However, after learning from their first date, Murong Shi no longer brought Little Yan along. She also forbade Xu Chuanchuan from inviting Little Yan.


    After being given the cold shoulder a few times, Little Yan angrily said, "What have you two been up to recently? Your sneaky actions are making it look like you two are in a rtionship."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped, and she nervously pursed her lips, unsure of what she should say.


    In contrast, Murong Shi remained calm like usual. Then, she frankly said, "We <em>are </em>in a rtionship, so have some self-awareness and don''t be a third wheel."


    Little Yan, with her pure and innocent mind, was instantly dumbfounded by Murong Shi''s words.


    Xu Chuanchuan also gaped in shock.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi hooked her arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s neck and escorted the shorter woman away. While walking, she said, "Little Yan is like a little sister to me. It doesn''t matter even if she finds out."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan remained unresponsive for a long time. Then, she nkly looked at Murong Shi and said, "But we''re still not dating."


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "What are we doing if not dating?"


    Dodging Murnog Shi''s gaze, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly said, "Didn''t you say that you would give me a week to think about it?"


    Murong Shi sighed. Then, she said, "Yes, I said I wouldn''t force the issue."


    "Actually, I think one week is a little short..."


    "How long do you want, then?"


    "A month?"


    "..."


    "Two months?"


    "..."


    "Okay, pretend I never said anything."


    TL Notes:


    [1]633: The standard total score for China''s National College Entrance Examination is 750. The total score can be higher or lower depending on the number of electives a student takes, but the standard is 750.


    [2]Tsinghua University: It is part of the C9 League of Chinese universities, and it is considered one of the best universities avable in China.

 Chapter 51: Pt.2

    Chapter 51: Pt.2


    Murong Shi was responsible for choosing the dinner location tonight, and she had chosen a vegetarian restaurant. Fearing that Xu Chuanchuan might not be used to eating vegetarian food, Murong Shi patiently exined, "The chef of this restaurant is very skilled. The vegetarian chicken and duck he makes are delicious. The vegetarian abalone is unique as well. My mother especially likes the food served here."


    Although the food was vegetarian, the prices were not low. When Xu Chuanchuan saw the prices on the menu, she quietly said to Murong Shi, "Don''t pick such an expensive ce in the future. It''s not worth it."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "You''re the one who''s afraid of being seen by the people in thepany. This is one of the only few ces I can think of where we''re unlikely to be seen."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how to refute Murong Shi''s words.


    Murong Shi closed the menu she held. Then, she looked at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Are you that unwilling toe out for dinner with me?"


    "No, that''s not the case," Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said. "I...I''m just afraid it will create misunderstandings if other people see us."


    "What kind of misunderstanding?"


    "You''re part of management in thepany, while I''m just a low-level employee. If others see us together, they might think I''m trying to pander to you."


    Murong Shi stopped talking.


    Seeing as the food had yet to arrive, Xu Chuanchuan pondered for a moment before deciding to ask the question guing her mind. "Don''t you think that our statuses are ipatible?"


    "What status?"


    "As I said before, you''re part of management, while I''m just a low-level employee. With your conditions, how can you possibly take a liking to me..." Xu Chuanchuan said, her voice growing increasingly meeker as she spoke. Her head also fell lower and lower.


    Murong Shi stared at the crown of Xu Chuanchuan''s head for a moment. Then, in a self-ridicule tone, she said, "If it weren''t for my parents, wouldn''t I be as ordinary as you are now?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan muttered, "Of course not. You scored over a hundred points more than I did in the national exam."


    Murong Shi scratched her head at these words. Then, sighing, she said, "Xu Chuanchuan, don''t try toplicate your feelings. Otherwise, what interest is there in life?"


    Xu Chuanchuan admitted that Murong Shi had sessfullyforted her. Then, she thought to herself in realization, <em>Let''s just go with the flow, then.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt rtively happy over her interactions with Murong Shi for the past few days. In private, Murong Shi wasn''t as domineering as she was at work. On the contrary, Murong Shi had taken great care of Xu Chuanchuan. She would even gently wipe any food stains Xu Chuanchuan had on her mouth.


    Moreover, Murong Shi did not force Xu Chuanchuan into doing anything she did not want to do, such as forcing a kiss onto her. Overall, the two of them spent their time warmly and leisurely together.


    After having dinner every day, Murong Shi would also personally send Xu Chuanchuan back to the dorm. When they arrived at thepany building, they would always mimic their first date and have a leisurely chat in the car after turning off the lights.


    This time, though, Murong Shi had seemingly forgotten to turn off the lights. With the car''s interior brightly lit, Xu Chuanchuan was too embarrassed to look directly at the person next to her.


    Even so, the two of them still started chatting aimlessly again. Finally, after running out of topics to talk about, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly asked, "I''ve been curious about this for a long time now, but why are you using your mother''s surname?"


    Murong Shi''s expression changed slightly at this question. Then, she slowly said, "I used to have a twin brother."


    "Huh?"


    "This is a secret that only people in my family know. Do you know why that''s the case?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head.


    Putting on a bitter smile, Murong Shi said, "My maternal grandparents were overjoyed when they found out my mother gave birth to twins. Although my two uncles already had children of their own back then, their firstborns were both boys. However, my maternal grandparents liked girls. So, to please the two elders, my father decided to change my surname to Murong.


    "Unfortunately, nobody could''ve imagined that my unfortunate brother was born with cerebral palsy. He died before reaching ten years old. My mother ended up falling severely ill after his death. Later on, a monk paid a visit to my house. I don''t know what the monk said, but he seeded in helping my mother get better. From then onward, my mother became a vegetarian and a devoted believer of Buddha. Doesn''t this story sound like a soap opera?"


    Xu Chuanchuan never thought that her casual question would lead to the uncovering of such a shocking secret. Then, lowering her eyes, she said, "I''m sorry."


    However, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "It''s fine. It''s been such a long time already. I''ve long since forgotten what he looks like. My mother, though, has never been able to let go."


    The topic had be too heavy for her to bear, so Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly pointed at a restaurant across the street and said, "The food that Japanese restaurant there serves is insanely good."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s actions. Then, stretching out her thump to scrap Xu Chuanchuan''s chin, she said, "I told you to leave some for me, yet you still drank the whole bottle of beer."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly heat up. Then, she said, "You still need to drive home, so I drank it on your behalf."


    Murong Shi''s eyes gradually darkened. Then, in an ambiguous tone, she said, "I''m going to get it back now."


    Murong Shi had been staring at her lips all this time, so Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even have to ask to know what was going through the other party''s mind. After hurriedly pushing Murong Shi''s hand away, she softly reminded, "It''s all over if we get seen by other colleagues in thepany.''


    "We''ll turn off the lights, then," Murong Shi said, immediately acting on her words.


    When the car darkened, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but clutch the hem of her shirt nervously. When she sensed Murong Shi''s presence moving closer to her, her heart started beating furiously.


    Then, Murong Shi held one of Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and used her other hand to caress Xu Chuanchuan''s face. In response, Xu Chuanchuan cooperatively shut her eyes and quietly waited for the kiss toe.


    However, at the critical moment, a cheerful ringtone sounded, and the two of them ended up separating before they even made contact with each other.


    The ringtone came from the front of the car. After reaching for her phone and looking at the disy, Murong Shi helplessly said, "It''s my mom."


    Out of everyone in Murong Shi''s contacts, Murong Mingshu was the only person she couldn''t ignore.


    After calming her breathing, Murong Shi epted the call and said, "Mom? Don''t worry. I''ll head back right away. No need to wait for me. You go to bed first. Good night."


    The wonderful atmosphere was instantly destroyed.


    Relying on the faint light given off by her phone, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s lips for a moment. Then, after some hesitation, she turned the lights back on.


    <em>How embarrassing,</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought as she straightened out her crumpled shirt. Then, she said, "You should hurry back home. Don''t let your family worry."


    "Mhm."


    ...


    It wasn''t even 10 PM yet when Xu Chuanchuan arrived back in her room.


    When Xu Chuanchuan pulled out her phone from her pocket, she saw a message from Ange, stating: "You''ve ignored my invites to write together for three days now. Something must be up. [Light a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ve been dying from writer''s block recently. I''m facing a lot of trouble writing the start of the new book."


    Ange: "Is it because of writer''s block, or is it because of an unspeakable secret? Don''t try to fool me. [Light a cigarette]"


    <em>Sure enough, lies are useless against Ange,</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought. Then, she decided toe clean and replied, "I''m sorry. I''ve been busy dating recently"


    Ange: "If my guess is correct, you should be together with your boss''s daughter, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...It''s a waste for you not to be a fortune teller."


    Ange: "Hah Tang''er, I''ve misjudged you. To think that you even swore to mest week that you weren''t bent. You told me you would straighten things out with her. Yet, you still ended up falling!"


    Ange''s words were like ps to Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Xu Chuanchuan felt so guilty that she didn''t know how to respond.


    Ange: "I''m not convinced. Just how am I worse than her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What???"


    Ange: "She dares steal my woman right under my nose! I think she''s tired of living! Tang''er, wait for me! I''ll fly over this Saturday! I''lle and save you!!!"


    With a shocked expression, Xu Chuanchuan asked: "Little Ange, are you alright?"


    Ange: "Alright, alright, I''ll stop messing with you. Didn''t I tell you that the filming for The End Of The World''s drama has already begun? The production crew invited me for a visit this weekend. I''m thinking of going over and learning a thing or two."


    <em>The End Of The World</em> was a drama based on Ange''s fantasy novels, and it had just begun filmingst month. Xu Chuanchuan still remembered this matter since she had even congratted Ange when the other party made a Weibo post about it.


    Ange was a very talented person. However, after writing for over a decade, her inspiration had started to dry out. So, she had been thinking about changing industries. As many of her novels had started being turned into films, Ange had also umted a lot of new knowledge about the entertainment industry, so she started considering working as a screenwriter in the future. If she could tag along with a film crew, she could gain some more useful knowledge about the entertainment industry, which would be of immense help when she decided to stop working as an author.


    Meanwhile, <em>The End Of The World</em>''s filming took ce in the city neighboring S City, which was the city Xu Chuanchuan lived in. Noting this, Ange decided to use this opportunity to finally meet her good friend in person.


    Ange: "Do you want to join me in visiting the production crew?"


    Without even thinking over the question, Xu Chuanchuan answered: "Sure!"


    However, the next day, Xu Chuanchuan started having a headache when Murong Shi asked her, "Do you want to go out on the weekend?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had been so happy about Ange''s invitation that she had forgotten entirely about her one-week promise to Murong Shi. However, visiting a film crew was an opportunity that rarely came. If she missed it, she might not get another chance like this again. Inparison, she had plenty of time to go on dates.


    When Xu Chuanchuan weighed the two options, she ended up choosing to abandon Murong Shi. Then, after hesitating for some time, she said, "I have something to do on the weekend."


    "What is it?"


    "I agreed with someone to make a trip to G City."


    Wearing a calm expression, Murong Shi asked, "How many days will you be gone?"


    "T-Two days."


    In reality, Murong Shi was already unhappy about this matter. Only, she didn''t show it on her face. Then, she continued asking, "Is it a woman?"


    "Huh?"


    "Is the other party a woman?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded.


    Narrowing her eyes, Murong Shi asked, "Is she more beautiful than me?"


    This question stumped Xu Chuanchuan. To maintain a sense of mystery, she had only agreed with Ange to identify each other by clothing and a special code. They never showed each other pictures of themselves.


    After pondering for some time, Xu Chuanchuan eventually smiled and said, "She''s definitely not as beautiful as you! You''re the most beautiful person I''ve ever seen!"


    "Give me a kiss, and I''ll believe you."


    After mentally struggling for some time, Xu Chuanchuan ended up kissing Murong Shi on the cheek.


    "I''m talking about this ce," Murong Shi said, pointing at her lips.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."

 Chapter 52: Pt.1

    Chapter 52: Pt.1


    Ever since Murong Shi had dropped the bomb on Little Yan, Little Yan had begun looking at Xu Chuanchuan with veiled curiosity. Because of this, whenever Xu Chuanchuan returned from her dates these past few days and came across Little Yan in the living room, she would guiltily flee into her room.


    Meanwhile, although Little Yan was incredibly curious about her cousin''s rtionship with Xu Chuanchuan, she never took the initiative to ask Xu Chuanchuan about it.


    However, the situation was different today. When Xu Chuanchuan returned home after dinner and came across Little Yan in the living room, Little Yan had called out to her and asked, "Chuanchuan, are you going to take a shower?"


    Xu Chuanchuan halted her footsteps. Then, she smiled and said, "No. I''ll be making a trip to G City tomorrow, so I need to pack my bags first."


    "You''re going to G City?"


    "Mhm."


    "Wouldn''t my cousin be bored during the weekend, then?"


    When Little Yan asked this question, both Little Yan herself and Xu Chuanchuan were stunned.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly turned her head away.


    As for Little Yan, she pretended to be rxed as she stuck a spoonful of ice cream into her mouth. Then, after swallowing the unmelted ice cream, she carefully asked, "Chuanchuan, are you really in a rtionship with my cousin?"


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head. Then, in an embarrassed tone, she said, "Actually, we aren''t officially dating yet. We''re just"


    <em>What are we exactly?</em> Even after racking her brain for some time, Xu Chuanchuan failed to make up a suitable answer.


    Putting on aplicated look, Little Yan stared at Xu Chuanchuan''s face for a moment before saying, "You two have already kissed, yet you''re still not officially dating?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was instantly frightened by Little Yan''s words. "H-H-How do you know that?"


    Then, putting on an embarrassed look, Little Yan stared at Xu Chuanchuan''s lips for a moment before quietly saying, "I didn''t see any changes in you when you came home during the past few nights. Today, though, you''ve obviously kissed since even your lips are chapped."


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously touched the wound on her lower lip, unsure of whether she shouldugh or cry in this situation. Then, with a blush on her face, she said, "That''s because I identally bit it during dinner."


    "Is that really the case?" Little Yan asked, blinking her eyes innocently.


    After those pure and innocent eyes stared at her for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly turned her head away.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t lying. She had indeed identally bitten her lip. When it happened, Murong Shi had evenughed at her and said, "Thankfully, you showed mercy the first two times. Otherwise, it would be a pain to get bitten by you."


    However, what Xu Chuanchuan didn''t mention was that after she had bitten herself, Murong Shi had taken advantage of the situation to


    While Xu Chuanchuan recalled the events that had happened at dinner, Little Yan mumbled to herself, "I never thought my cousin would like women."


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself, <em>I never expected it, either.</em>


    Subsequently, Little Yan asked another question that frightened Xu Chuanchuan. "Chuanchuan, how does it feel like to kiss another woman?"


    <em>Why must we discuss such a topic? </em>Then, with a sense of embarrassment and helplessness on her face, Xu Chuanchuan vaguely said, "Actuallyit doesn''t feel like anything."


    As if having discovered something amazing, Little Yan''s eyes glowed with excitement when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she excitedly said, "Doesn''t that just mean my cousin''s kissing skills are terrible? I can use this to mock her in the future!"


    "Don''t! You mustn''t tell her that!" Xu Chuanchuan said, her face turning pale white.


    Then, Little Yan giggled and said, "I''m joking. This is a matter between the two of you. Rest assured, I won''t tell anyone about this."


    Up till this point, Xu Chuanchuan had felt that apart from height, Murong Shi and Little Yan didn''t have much inmon despite being cousins. However, the way Little Yan had just toyed with her resembled Murong Shi very much, and she couldn''t help but feel as if a certain someone had led Little Yan astray.


    When Xu Chuanchuan went to wash her face, she hissed in pain when she inadvertently got some water onto the wound on her lower lip. Then, looking at herself in the mirror, she found that despite the wound on her lip being tiny, that portion of her lip had swelled up much more than it should have.


    This was all Murong Shi''s fault. When Murong Shi had insisted that she would help stop the bleeding, Xu Chuanchuan thought the other party would bring her some medicine. Yet, Murong Shi had ended up dragging her into the restroom, lifted her head, and sucked out the blood


    In the end, the two of them couldn''t help themselves and ended up spending several minutes in the restroom before returning to their seats.


    When they returned to their seats, a certain someone had even righteously said, "Saliva can help reduce inmmation."


    With her face as red as a tomato, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I can use my own saliva for that!"


    Then, seeing Xu Chuanchuan flying into a rage, Murong Shi sighed and said, "You clearly like it, so why do you always make it seem as if I''m forcing you to do it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Such a small wound should heal up in no time at all. However, when Xu Chuanchuan thought about how she would be meeting Ange in person tomorrow, she worried this wound would ruin the impression of their first meeting.


    Hence, aftering out of the bathroom, Xu Chuanchuan contacted Ange as a precaution.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I bit and wounded my lip today. You better notugh at me tomorrow."


    Ange: "Did you really bite yourself? Or did a certain someone do it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...Myself! Stop having dirty thoughts!"


    In response, Ange replied with a lecherous smiley emoticon.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan went to bed, she received a WeChat message from Murong Shi, asking, "Do you need me to drop you off tomorrow?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No need for that. I can catch a taxi to the train station."


    Murong Shi: "Take care of your safety."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Thank you."


    Murong Shi: "Make sure to protect yourself well and don''t let others take advantage of you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." She didn''t even need to ask to know that Murong Shi was referring to Ange.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan took a screenshot of the conversation and sent it to Ange, saying: "A certain someone has already started treating you as an imaginary love rival."


    In response, Ange coolly said: "It''s not imaginary. I am her love rival. Tell her that I''m here this time precisely to steal you away. [Light a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Stop fooling around"


    Ange would be flying to G City tomorrow. To make it easier for them to meet up, they decided to set their meeting venue to be at the hotel where they would be staying for the weekend. Ange was the one responsible for making the hotel reservation. And as the train ride from S City to G City would only take an hour, Xu Chuanchuan could afford to set outter.


    Meanwhile, as this would only be a two-day trip, Xu Chuanchuan nned to only bring a small suitcase with her.


    When Xu Chuanchuan was ready to leave the following day, Little Yan was still asleep, so she made sure to be quiet when she left. When she arrived downstairs, she was stunned when she found a familiar car parked by the entrance.


    The car''s window rolled down, revealing Murong Shi''s face. Then, Murong Shi said, "Get on."


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently put her luggage into the trunk and got into the passenger seat. Then, she looked at Murong Shi''s beautiful profile and asked, "Why are you here?"


    "I just dropped Aunt Lian off at the market. Since thepany is close by, I decided toe over," Murong Shizily said.


    Although Murong Shi had provided a reasonable answer, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have the feeling that Murong Shi had deliberately driven to thepany just to send her off.


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan felt a warm sensation spreading her. She also felt as if her heart was about to melt. Although she realized that she was falling deeper and deeper down this rabbit hole, she couldn''t tell whether this was a good or bad thing.


    Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t get used to the fact that Murong Shi was so nice to her. She even panicked a little in this situation. She was afraid that all this was fake and that everything would disappear just as quickly as it appeared.


    The drive from thepany to the train stationsted only ten minutes, so Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have time to think about so manyplicated matters.


    The train station was crowded with people, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t spend too much time chatting with Murong Shi unless she wanted to miss her train. After exchanging a few words, it was finally time to part ways.


    "Bye-bye."


    "Hold on a minute," Murong Shi said as she extended a hand to touch Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression changed slightly, and she couldn''t help but grow flustered when she thought Murong Shi was trying to do something embarrassing in front of so many people. However, Murong Shi quickly retracted her hand and looked at the greasy powder stuck to the finger. Then, she said, "Your makeup ising off."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up at this statement. Then, she said, "It''s been a while since I''ve used makeup. The BB cream I used is something my little sister left behind. Its quality might not be very good."


    "What time is your train?"


    "Ten."


    "There''s still plenty of time, then," Murong Shi said after taking a look at her phone. Then, she dragged Xu Chuanchuan back into the car.


    While looking at Murong Shi rummaging for something in her handbag, Xu Chuanchuan asked in confusion, "What are you doing?"


    "I''ll do a touch-up for you," Murong Shi said as she took out a set of high-end cosmetic products from her bag. Then, after carefully inspecting Xu Chuanchuan''s face for several seconds, she grabbed a powder puff and said, "Close your eyes."


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently closed her eyes.


    Murong Shi''s actions were gentle, but she moved with skill. First, she put on ayer of foundation for Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she followed it up with some rouge.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi pull out a sharp eyebrow trimmer, she hastily asked, "Is this necessary?"


    After taking a look at Xu Chuanchuan''s eyebrows, Murong Shi firmly said, "The eyes hold a person''s spirit. If you want to put on makeup, you have to do it properly. Your eyebrows are too loose, so they need to be fixed."


    "Then, be careful."


    When Murong Shi saw the anxious look on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she couldn''t help but chuckle a little. Then, she said, "What are you afraid of? I''m just giving your eyebrows a trim, not disfiguring you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Besides, with how you look right now, there''s no need to disfigure you."


    "...That''s too much."


    Immediately afterward, Murong Shi used her free hand to hold Xu Chuanchuan''s head in ce. Then, putting on a stern look, she said, "Alright, stop making a fuss and close your eyes."


    The air conditioner was running, and there was a beautiful woman doing makeup for her. There was nothing Xu Chuanchuan needed to do but rx.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see what Murong Shi was doing to her with her eyes shut, she didn''t feel anxious when leaving everything to the other party. Even when Xu Chuanchuan felt Murong Shi''s movements stopping, she dared not open her eyes without first receiving permission to do so. Afterward, she felt a gentle breeze blowing at her eyelids, causing her to feel a little itchy.


    "Okay, you can open your eyes now," Murong Shi said.


    When Xu Chuanchuan opened her eyes and saw Murong Shi''s erged face in front of her, her heart trembled slightly.


    They were incredibly close to each other right now, so close that so long as she moved her mouth a little, their lips would meet. When Xu Chuanchuan tried to move her body backward, she suddenly felt Murong Shi holding onto her waist, and she subconsciously stiffened her body.


    Then, Murong Shi whispered, "Don''t move. My hand shook a little just now, so your left eyebrow looks a little broken."


    "Broken?!" Xu Chuanchuan gasped.


    Putting on a mischievous smile, Murong Shi raised an eyebrow pencil and nonchntly said, "Don''t be afraid. Even if you don''t have eyebrows, I can still make you look beautiful."


    Xu Chuanchuan still felt uneasy, so she said, "Give me the mirror."


    "I''ll give it to you when I''m done with your makeup."


    Putting on a sobbing face, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Did you really ruin my eyebrow?"


    Then, Murong Shi gave Xu Chuanchuan a gentle pat on the face and said, "How can you be so gullible? Who would I go to if I end up making you ugly?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    After finishing the eyebrows, Murong Shi went on to apply some eyeshadow and mascara for Xu Chuanchuan.


    "I''m done. Here, take a look."

 Chapter 52: Pt.2

    Chapter 52: Pt.2


    "Here, take a look."


    When Xu Chuanchuan epted the mirror Murong Shi offered her, she couldn''t help but be dumbfounded when she saw the bright and lively face that appeared in the mirror. Then, she subconsciously muttered, "So, this is how I look with makeup on."


    Murong Shi had spent less than 20 minutes working on Xu Chuanchuan''s face. After returning the cosmetic products into her bag, she proudly said, "The key point is that you have an amazing makeup artist."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed onto Murong Shi''s hands. Then, after turning them and looking at them for a while, she eximed, "You have such skillful hands."


    Putting on a casual smile, Murong Shi said, "It''s a small matter. You get used to it with practice. Come, I''ll take a photo of you as a memento."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi raising her phone, she made a "V" to the camera. However, she did not expect Murong Shi to wrap an arm around her neck all of a sudden. As a result, Murong Shi effortlessly pulled Xu Chuanchuan into her arms and stuck their faces to each other.


    All of this happened too suddenly. Before Xu Chuanchuan could ready herself, she heard the sound of a "click."


    "Your expression looks silly. Redo, redo," Murong Shi said. However, despite herint, she did not delete the picture she just took. Then, she continued taking several more photos while keeping her face glued to Xu Chuanchuan''s.


    When the photoshoot ended, Xu Chuanchuan''s hair had be her mess. While trying to straighten it out again, she said, "Is that enough? Can I go now?"


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes. Then, after inspecting Xu Chuanchuan''s makeup for a while, she said, "I keep getting the feeling that something''s missing."


    "What?"


    Murong Shi lifted Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and stared at the wound on her lower lip. Then, she said, "It''s a pity that there''s a wound. Otherwise, I could''ve put some lipstick on you."


    For some reason, whenever Murong Shi stared at her mouth using such a gaze, Xu Chuanchuan would always feel as if a wolf was staring at her.


    Gulping the saliva in her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll pass on the lipstick. It''s an inconvenience when I''m eating."


    Murong Shi didn''t insist on the matter. But then, her eyes darkened a little as she said in a moody tone, "You''ve never once put on makeup on our dates, yet you''ve gone out of your way to dress up prettily to see another woman. This really irks me."


    Xu Chuanchuan had always felt guilty over abandoning Murong Shi to meet up with Ange. So, when she smelled the scent of jealousy radiating from Murong Shi, she timidly said, "I initially nned to only apply some sunscreen, but I couldn''t find it and ended up finding a BB cream Also, you were the one who applied the makeup for me"


    Then, Murong Shi snorted and coldly said, "That''s right. I even drove you to the station. I''m just one step away from personally handing you over to her."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan found it difficult to follow up with Murong Shi''s words. However, ording to the experience she gained on their first dinner date, she knew that once Murong Shi started pouting, there would be a need to coax her.


    Putting on a fawning smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "The person I''m going to meet is a very, very good friend of mine. We''ve known each other for six years already."


    "Heh, six years. I have known you for less than half a year."


    "She and Iwe''re only friends."


    Then, Murong Shi put on a faint smile and asked, "What is my rtionship with you, then?"


    The questions were bing harder and harder, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have the urge to bang her head against the wall. After calming herself, she pushed this question back to Murong Shi, asking, "What do you think?"


    However, Murong Shi did not y along with Xu Chuanchuan.


    Left with no better options, Xu Chuanchuan ended up making use of her sex appeal (if she had any). After making sure that none of the passersby were paying attention to them, Xu Chuanchuan quickly pecked Murong Shi''s cheek and said, "I''ll call you right away once I arrive."


    Murong Shi''splexion warmed up slightly at this gesture.


    There wasn''t much time left. If Xu Chuanchuan continued dragging her feet, she would end up missing her train. So, she opened the door and decisively got out of the car.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi took a deep look at Xu Chuanchuan before saying, "Xu Chuanchuan, you still owe me an answer."


    "I know."


    "Go on in. Bye-bye."


    "Bye-bye," Xu Chuanchuan said before making her way into the crowded train station with her luggage in tow.


    When Xu Chuanchuan got onto the train tform, she couldn''t help but look back. When she found that Murong Shi was still standing by the car,plicated feelings started filling her heart.


    Xu Chuanchuan came from an ordinary family living in a county seat. Neither of her parents was well-educated, and the two were busy with work all year round. So, they didn''t have a lot of time to apany her at home. When she entered second grade of elementary school, she had already started learning how to be independent. After entering middle school, she began living in school dormitories. So, it wasn''t far-fetched to say that she had lived her younger years by herself. Moreover, because she had a sister six years younger than her, she also had to take on the responsibility of caring for her younger sister.


    In Xu Chuanchuan''s 25 years of life, this was the first time someone had personally seen her off. Xu Chuanchuan never thought that this person would be Murong Shi.


    In her 25 years of life, this was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had the urge to cry over such a small matter.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan waved at Murong Shi and shouted, "Hurry back home!"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know if Murong Shi had heard her or not, but the other party remained standing in ce. Even Murong Shi''s expression remained unchanged.


    ...


    The shirt Xu Chuanchuan wore was a custom T-shirt with the words "The End Of The World" printed on it. It was part of the batch of T-shirts Ange ordered when she had sold her novel''s film and television rights. Although Ange had ended up giving away most of these T-shirts to her readers, she had saved one for Xu Chuanchuan.


    The two of them had agreed to wear this T-shirt for their first meeting. As for the secret code they had decided on to further verify each other''s identity...that was best left unmentioned.


    After Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the hotel Ange reserved, she felt that it would be rude to go straight to their room first. So, she sent Ange a message saying: "I just arrived. I''ll be waiting for you in the lobby."


    Ange: "Okay. I just got onto the airport''s chartered bus. It might take me another ten minutes to reach the hotel."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan sent a WeChat message to Murong Shi, reporting: "I just arrived. Thank you for today."


    Murong Shi: "Take care and have fun."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan started bing restless in her seat.


    Xu Chuanchuan had already known Ange for six years. Both of them were also women. Yet, for some reason, she couldn''t help but grow anxious. She got so nervous that the makeup Murong Shi had painstakingly applied for her had started showing signs of breaking off.


    Noticing this problem, Xu Chuanchuan dragged her luggage to the restroom and took out the cushion foundation Murong Shi had given her when they were parting. Then, she began carefully touching up her makeup.


    Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently thought of Murong Shi when she smelled the cosmetic''s scent, which worked to calm her anxious mood.


    Fifteen minutester.


    Xu Chuanchuan had kept her eyes constantly focused on the hotel entrance after leaving the restroom. So, when she saw a woman wearing the same custom T-shirt dragging arge suitcase through the entrance, she instantly identified her as Ange.


    Currently, Ange was also wearing a baseball cap, probably because she was afraid of the sun. The hat had an exaggeratedlyrge brim that covered half of Ange''s face, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see what Ange looked like exactly. She could only tell that Ange was someone who rarely saw the sun because of her exceptionally pale skin.


    Meanwhile, Ange had also quickly located Xu Chuanchuan and walked over with her luggage in tow.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Ange''s attire, she realized she had made a mistake. She should''ve also worn a hat. Unfortunately, she had nothing to cover her face with right now. She also felt that it would be awkward to hide herself now, so she just moved forward to greet Ange.


    "Hi"


    "Don''t ''hi'' me. Friend, do you like mtang?" Ange asked.


    This question was the secret code Ange had set up, and Xu Chuanchuan had momentarily forgotten about it due to her anxiety. Then, holding back her embarrassment, Xu Chuanchuan said her part of the secret code, "I do. I''ll treat you to it tonight."


    After hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s reply, Ange removed her baseball cap and revealed the rest of her face. And when Xu Chuanchuan finally got to see Ange''s appearance, her eyes gradually widened.


    Ange had arched eyebrows that gave her an arrogant andx look. In addition, she had a high nose bridge, two thin and pale lips, and a pointed chin. Although Ange''s facial features were not as stunning as Murong Shi''s, she gave off a fluttering and enigmatic feeling that Murong Shi didn''t have.


    To sum it up, Ange was beautiful.


    Ange''s temperament was entirely in line with her personality as a writer of supernatural and fantasy novels. She mostly matched the image Xu Chuanchuan had visualized. If only Ange held a cigarette in her hand, it wouldplete the image Xu Chuanchuan envisioned.


    Afterward, when Ange heard Xu Chuanchuan''s first impression of herself, she couldn''t help but be rendered speechless for a moment. Then, she said, "What do you mean arrogant? That''s because of my poor vision. Also, fluttering? That''s because I puked out everything I ate on the ne while riding the bus, so my whole body feels weak right now."


    After finishing her rant, Ange put on a bright smile and gave Xu Chuanchuan a bear hug. Then, she emotionally said, "Tang''er, it''s been six years. We finally meet."


    Xu Chuanchuan returned Ange''s hug, though she was at a loss on what to say for a moment. Fortunately, all of the anxiety she felt before had disappeared because of this hug.


    Unlike Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction to seeing Ange, thetter didn''t seem particrly surprised by Xu Chuanchuan''s appearance. After unscrupulously scrutinizing Xu Chuanchuan''s body, Ange focused her eyes on Xu Chuanchuan''s face and said, "You''re actually wearing makeup."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan frankly said, "I was afraid you would overshadow me. If I don''t cover myself up a little, I wouldn''t have the guts to meet you."


    Unlike Xu Chuanchuan, Ange wasn''t wearing any makeup. Her face looked clean and light. Her smile also appeared faint, and this was something she had inmon with Murong Shi. However, unlike Murong Shi''s smile, Ange''s smile looked a little cold and awkward. It made her look like she was someone who hadn''t mingled with other people for a long time.


    Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan had known Ange for a long time now, so she knew that the other party wasn''t actually a cold person.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was immersed in her thoughts, Ange suddenly asked, "I don''t remember you being good at applying makeup. Did your little sister help you with it?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan mentally struggled for a moment before hesitantly saying, "No, that''s not it. It''s...that person..."


    "That person?" Ange repeated. Then, realization dawned on her as she asked, "The one who bent you?"


    Sure enough, Ange''s personality was the same both in the virtual world and in the real world! There was nothing she was afraid of saying!


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly covered Ange''s mouth. Then, after looking around and making sure nobody was paying attention to them, she breathed out a sigh of relief and said, "Let''s go to our room first."

 Chapter 53: Pt.1

    Chapter 53: Pt.1


    The room Ange reserved was a deluxe standard room for two people. After receiving the room key from the front desk, they went to their room to store their luggage first.


    Looking at Ange''s gigantic suitcase, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but ask, "What did you bring?"


    In response, Angeid her suitcase on the floor, opened the zipper, and pulled out a rectangr box from inside. Then, she handed the box to Xu Chuanchuan, "A gift for you."


    "A keyboard?" Xu Chuanchuan instantly recognized the familiar packaging.


    Nodding, Ange said, "Weren''t you fussing about how loud your keyboard was? Mine here is the opposite. Its keys are too soft to the touch, and it feels irritating when I''m typing on it."


    When Xu Chuanchuan took a closer look at the brand and model on the box, she eximed, "Isn''t this the keyboard you showed me before? The one that cost over two thousand."


    "Mhm. I only used it a few times after buying it. It was collecting dust in my house anyway, so I might as well give it to you."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her arms suddenly growing heavier when she realized she had received such an expensive present at their first meeting. "I came out in a hurry, so I didn''t prepare any presents for you."


    In response, Ange zipped her suitcase again and said, "I don''t need any presents. Don''t forget that you still need to treat me to mtang."


    "Do you really want to eat mtang?"


    "Of course. We''re going to eat it now. I''m starving to death already."


    Hence, the two of them ended up ordering an extrarge set of mtang to be delivered to their hotel.


    When the delivery arrived, Ange was still in the bathroom washing up. So, Xu Chuanchuan went downstairs by herself to pick up the delivery.


    It was already close to noon by the time Xu Chuanchuan returned to the room with the mtang. Then, looking at the big bowl of mtang in front of her, she suddenly said, "I just remembered it all of a sudden, but we also had mtang the first time I treated her to a meal."


    In response, Ange, who had been wiping her face with a towel, said in frustration, "We''ve met up for less than an hour, yet this is already the second time you''ve brought her up in front of me. Are you honestly trying to trigger me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed when she heard Ange''s words. Then, after calming down a little, she said, "I was just trying to say that my original intention was to treat you two to a big meal. You really don''t need to save money for me."


    "We''ll save the big meal for dinner," Ange said. She was so hungry right now that she couldn''t be bothered to be picky with her food. Then, she opened the lid of the big bowl of mtang, passed a small stic bowl to Xu Chuanchuan, and said, "We''ll take a nap first after eating. We should get rested before we visit the production crew."


    As a tagalong, Xu Chuanchuan obediently listened to Ange''s arrangement.


    "Hold on a second," Ange said as she pulled out her phone. Then, she pointed the camera at the two of them and said, "Let''s take a selfie and post it on Weibo."


    "Should we censor it?" Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly asked.


    The selfie was taken along with the sound of a "click." Then, Ange began editing the photo while saying, "Rx. I''ll censor it."


    A minuteter, a new post appeared on Ange''s Weibo: "I''ve finally met Tang''er @I Love Mtang after six years! We''re having mtang for our first meal together~ [Image]"


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan also made a simr post on her Weibo.


    When the drama for The End Of The World began filming, Ange''s Weibo follower count had increased to tens of thousands under the film crew''s promotion. As a result, shortly after she made the Weibo post, thement section under the post exploded with activity.


    Heavens! You two are both authors that I like. I never thought you two would actually be close friends!


    Lord, you''re evil! Why did you censor the picture? Requesting original picture!


    You two look so skinny, but I bet that the one with shorter hair is definitely @I Love Mtang.


    I don''t know why, but even though the image is censored, I still find the two of them to be quite matching.


    How interesting. You two are eating mtang at your first meeting. Lord, are you secretly hinting at something?


    Get together! Get together!


    After looking through some of thements, Xu Chuanchuan''s mood became very subtle. Then, she asked Ange, "Why do these people keep trying to force two women into bing a couple?"


    Ange had just been burned by a piping hot cauliflower, so she was in the midst of rapidly inhaling and exhaling. Then, she casually said, "Because most of them are lesbians. Do you expect them to fantasize about men?"


    "I guess you''re right. You should hurry up and exin. Otherwise, they''re going to misunderstand."


    Suddenly, a mischievous smile appeared on Ange''s face as she said, "Let them misunderstand, then. Why should I exin?"


    "But the two of us aren''t in that kind of rtionship..."


    Hearing this, Ange sighed and said, "You really can''t take a joke at all. Okay, okay, I''ll exin it to them. But honestly, even if I don''t exin, your ''straighter than a steel pipe'' im is still on your homepage. They aren''t blind. They''re just fooling around because they''re bored."


    Xu Chuanchuan chuckled a little.


    Then, Ange frowned and continued, "But now that you''re in a half-bent state, shouldn''t you delete that post?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." At the mention of this sensitive topic, Xu Chuanchuan chose to evade it by focusing on her food.


    In no time at all, the two of them finished the big bowl of mtang. Then, after chatting for a while, they went to sleep at around one o''clock. And at around three o''clock, they took a taxi to the film studio.


    The afternoon sun was poisonous to someone like Ange, who rarely ever left her house. Sighing, she said, "I should''vee at night instead."


    Xu Chuanchuan tried her best to tilt the umbre toward Ange''s side. Then, she asked, "Are they filming at night as well?"


    "I heard they''ll be taking a night scene today. Ah, I can''t take it anymore. I think I''m going to melt. Let''s hide over there for a moment," Ange said as she dragged Xu Chuanchuan under arge parasol set up by the production crew. Afterward, she pulled out her phone and gave someone a call.


    A short whileter, a male staff member wearing a vest came running over and asked, "May I know which one of you is Miss Ange?"


    "Hello, I''m Ange," Ange said as she shook hands with the man.


    "So, you''re the author! You''re so beautiful and talented!"


    "Thank you, but you''re too polite."


    Under the staff member''s lead, Xu Chuanchuan and Ange sessfully met up with the production crew.


    The crew was in the midst of filming an intense scene, so nobody took notice of their arrival. And even if they did, it wouldn''t matter since neither of them was a celebrity.


    The main reason Ange was visiting the production crew this time was to understand the basic filming process of film and television drama. Fortunately, although Ange wasn''t a celebrity, she received rtively good treatment from the film crew as the author of this drama''s story. For example, a staff member had brought Ange and Xu Chuanchuan each a cup of milk tea.


    When the production crew eventually took a break, Ange used the opportunity to ask the various crew members about their respective duties. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan took on the responsibility of an attendant, taking many pictures of the film set while following Ange.


    Partway through their tour of the film set, Ange dragged Xu Chuanchuan to a corner and quietly asked, "Weren''t you nning to write about the entertainment industry for your new novel? Don''t you think it''s more useful to see a film studio in person than reading about it through someone else''s novel?"


    "Mhm! I''ve gained a lot of experience today!" Xu Chuanchuan said as she gave Ange a big hug. "Thank you, Ange."


    Then, Ange teasingly said, "Wouldn''t that person be jealous if she sees you hugging me like this?"


    Blushing, Xu Chuanchuan said in a low voice, "She and I... We still haven''t developed to that point yet."


    Angeughed at Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    However, as many people were at the film set, the two of them dared not discuss such sensitive topics in depth.


    Among the crew members, one youngdy in charge of the props happened to be Ange''s fan. She approached Ange with a physical copy of The End Of The World and asked for an autograph. She also ended up taking a photo together with Ange.


    After taking the photo, Ange told the girl, "Remember not to share this photo with others. Even if you do, you must remember to censor it first."


    In response, the girl giggled and said, "I know, I know. You authors always like to act mysterious."


    Ange couldn''t help but feel embarrassed at these words.


    Afterward, the girl curiously looked at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, after a moment of hesitation, she asked, "Miss Ange, is this your girlfriend?"


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan said, "...No, no, we''re just good friends."


    Meanwhile, Ange smiled and said, "She is my friend. She is also an author."


    Fortunately, the girl was a diehard fan of Ange, so she had no interest in Xu Chuanchuan''s identity as an author at all. Instead, she departed happily with her signed book in hand.


    Looking at Ange, Xu Chuanchuan sighed ruefully and said, "I really envy you sometimes."


    "What are you envious of?"


    "You have both fame and fortune. Youck nothing at all."


    "Who said so? I''m still missing a girlfriend," Ange said in a righteous tone. Then, she suddenly winked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Did you finally notice my excellence? It''s not toote to regret now. Why don''t you abandon that person and be with me?"


    Turning her head away, Xu Chuanchuan faked a cough and said, "Stop messing around..."


    Time passed by quickly as the two of them toured the film set.


    When their stomachs started grumbling, they quickly left the film set before the production crew began distributing meal boxes. As the two of them weren''t familiar with the local environment, they searched on DianPing for a long time before settling for a grilled fish restaurant.


    "Let''s go. I''ll treat you," Xu Chuanchuan said.

 Chapter 53: Pt.2

    Chapter 53: Pt.2


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan and Ange had their fill of food and drinks, the sky had gradually darkened. As neither of them had much energy left, they decided to return to the hotel to rest.


    While tugging at her sweaty T-shirt, Ange said, "I really can''t stand this smell. Can I shower first once we get back?"


    "Okay, you go first," Xu Chuanchuan said, thinking that she could use this time to organize the photos she had taken today.


    Apart from photos taken for educational purposes, they had also taken many group photos with the leading actors today. This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had gotten so close to a celebrity, so it was inevitable that she became a little nervous. Moreover, unlike Ange, Xu Chuanchuan found that she wasn''t photogenic at all. She either smiled like an idiot or had her eyes closed in many of the group photos they took.


    After browsing through the photos for some time, Xu Chuanchuan decided to select a few satisfactory ones and shared them on her WeChat Moments to show off. However, when she realized that there were only eight eptable photos, she decided to include the selfie she took with Ange during lunch to bolster the number.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Ange didn''t like showing her face, so she made sure to censor Ange''s face in every photo. Shortly after she published the photos, she received several likes andments.


    Chen Lina, one of Xu Chuanchuan''s colleagues,mented: "How did you get group shots with so many celebs?"


    Xu Xiaomei, another colleague,mented: "Are these really the celebrities we see on TV? Why do I feel as if these photos are photoshopped?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Then, Xu Xiangxiangmented: "Ahhh!!! What''s this?!"


    A second after Xu Chuanchuan saw her little sister''sment, her phone started ringing. Taking a look, she found that Xu Xiangxiang had sent her a video call request.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan clicked the "ept" button, Xu Xiangxiang''s scream entered her ears. Then, her little sister said, "Sis! I just saw your social media! Where are you right now? Why didn''t you bring me with you?!"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that she had made a mistake. Before making the post, she should''ve blocked a portion of the people on her contact list, such as Xu Xiangxiang and a certain someone...


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her eardrums ringing from Xu Xiangxiang''s screaming. While covering her ears, she guiltily said, "I''m out on a trip with a friend. It was an impromptu trip, and I was afraid you didn''t have the time."


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang bellowed, "I have plenty of time on the weekend! Did you go to a film studio?"


    Gritting her teeth, Xu Chuanchuan lied, "It costs a lot of money for a trip. I''ll go broke if I bring you along."


    Xu Xiangxiang immediately grew unhappy when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she started moring andining about her elder sister for being "stingy" and "inhumane."


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan had to promise to give Xu Xiangxiang an additional 500 yuan in pocket money next month to assuage her little sister. Only then did Xu Xiangxiang stopining.


    After disconnecting the video call, Xu Xiangxiang saw a new notification on her WeChat Moments. When she tapped on it to take a look, her heart thumped.


    Murong Shi had seen the post Xu Chuanchuan made a minute ago, and she left ament, saying: "Why did you have to censor the woman beside you? Afraid that I''ll see her?"


    <em>Should I reply to thisment or not?</em>


    After mentally struggling for some time, Xu Chuanchuan decided to delete the entire post.


    After this incident, Xu Chuanchuan learned that she should never recklessly boast about matters.


    After changing her thinking, Xu Chuanchuan censored her face and published the photos on her Weibo.


    Suddenly, a cheerful ringtone rang in the room. Xu Chuanchuan found that it was Ange''s phone that was ringing. After sending a nce at the phone and seeing that it was an unknown number local to G City, she deemed it to be a spam call, so she ended up ignoring it.


    However, Ange''s phone rang for a long time. After the first call got automatically disconnected, another call came. While Xu Chuanchuan wondered whether she should tell Ange about it, Ange came walking out of the bathroom.


    "Who''s calling me?" Ange asked.


    Shaking her head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No idea. It''s an unknown number. They''ve been calling non-stop for some time now. Could it be someone from the production crew?"


    "Maybe," Ange said. Then, she answered the call and ced her phone by her ear. After quietly listening to the phone for a moment, she suddenly frowned and said, "Is that any of your business?"


    After saying so, Ange ended the call and cklisted the other party''s number without hesitation.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw this, she asked in confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    After tossing her phone aside, Ange nkly said, "It''s Citrus."


    "Huh? Why is it her?"


    "She says that she is in G City and that she saw my Weibo post. Then, she asked which hotel I''m staying at and said that she wants toe to see me."


    "That..." Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes wandered for a while before she asked, "Did she chase after you all the way to G City? Why do I feel that she''s very attached to you? Are you two..."


    Then, Ange suddenly sneered and said in a cold voice, "I don''t me you since you don''t understand her, but Citrus is a person who loves only money and herself. If she is like you described her to be, I wouldn''t have broken up with her back then."


    Xu Chuanchuan indeedcked understanding about the person known as Fragrant Citrus. She had only heard Ange briefly mention her rtionship with Fragrant Citrus before, so she didn''t find it appropriate for her toment on the situation.


    In reality, Ange hadn''t told Xu Chuanchuan about the whole conversation she had with Fragrant Citrus. To be precise, she had left out a question Fragrant Citrus asked, which was, "Are you together with that white lotus now?"[1]


    Ange had no intention of telling Xu Chuanchuan about this matter. However, when she sensed that her tone sounded a bit aggressive, she faked a calm smile and said, "Let''s not talk about her. Hurry up and go wash up."


    "Mhm."


    As luck would have it, while Xu Chuanchuan was taking a bath, her phone had ended up ringing instead. As there was only a door separating her from her phone, she could hear the ringing loud and clear. When the ringing didn''t stop, she raised her voice and said to Ange, "Pick it up for me first."


    When Xu Chuanchuan came out of the bathroom, she found Ange wearing a strange expression, so she asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Who''s Murong?"


    As if realizing something, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Murong was the one who called me just now?"


    Ange nodded.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression changed slightly at this answer.


    Ange roughly guessed the situation. Then, she said, "Sorry, I didn''t know it was her. When I told her you were in the bath and couldn''t answer the phone, she seemed quite upset as she hung up without saying another word."


    After saying so, Ange passed the phone to Xu Chuanchuan.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan epted it in a daze.


    Let alone Ange, even Xu Chuanchuan herself did not expect Murong Shi to call her at thiste hour.


    After wetting her lips, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s okay. I was the one who asked you to answer it for me."


    "She might be upset. Shouldn''t you call her back and give her an exnation?"


    "She... There''s no way she''s upset. I still haven''t reached that step with her."


    Xu Chuanchuan might''ve said so, but she still ended up calling Murong Shi with an uneasy heart.


    Meanwhile, Ange sat at a side looking at Xu Chuanchuan with a yful smile. And finding the situation awkward, Xu Chuanchuan turned her back toward Ange.


    When Xu Chuanchuan heard a low "hello" entering her ear, her body subconsciously tensed up as she quickly said, "I''m sorry, I was in the shower just now."


    "Your friend already told me that just now," Murong Shi said, her voice not containing any emotions.


    "That... It''s quitete now. Have you eaten yet/"


    "I haven''t. You?"


    "I ate already. Uh, why haven''t you eaten yet? Aren''t you hungry?"


    "It''s too hot, so I don''t have much of an appetite."


    <em>Is it really because of the hot weather?</em> Xu Chuanchuan dared not think too deeply into the matter. She also wasn''t used to having casual conversations with Murong Shi on the phone, so she couldn''t help but feel as if she was speaking nonsense. "Your stomach will suffer if you don''t eat. Even if it''s hot, you should eat something."


    No reply came from the other side.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was at a loss on what to say, Murong Shi nonchntly asked, "Did you have fun today?"


    "It was quite fun. I gained a lot of experience. The only problem was the hot weather."


    Then, Murong Shi changed the topic and said, "I saw your Moments."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tensed up.


    "You deleted your post as soon as Imented on it. It seems you''re afraid of letting me see it," Murong Shi added.


    ...Although that was indeed the case, Xu Chuanchuan refused to admit it even if it killed her.


    Also, for some reason, Xu Chuanchuan could vaguely sense a hint of unhappiness in Murong Shi''s calm voice. <em>Is it because I deleted that post? Or is it because I had Ange answer the call just now?</em>


    Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Many people started asking me about it after seeing the photos. It was annoying, so I ended up deleting the post. I wasn''t deliberately targeting you."


    "Is that so?"


    "Mhm"


    A long silence ensued once more. Finally, after a while, Murong Shi let out an audible sigh and said, "I''m sorry. I don''t know what''s gotten into me today."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Why is she suddenly apologizing?</em>


    "Rest early if you''re tired. I''ll stop disturbing you two now, bye-bye," Murong Shi said.


    Xu Chuanchuan instinctively responded with her own "bye-bye."


    <em>Wait, what ''bye-bye''? That''s it?</em>


    However, by the time Xu Chuanchuan snapped out of her daze, Murong Shi had already disconnected the call.


    Afterward, when Xu Chuanchuan recalled Murong Shi''sst few words, she couldn''t help but fall into deep thought.


    <em>What did she mean by "I''ll stop disturbing you two"?</em>


    Meanwhile, after looking at Xu Chuanchuan dazedly holding onto the phone for some time, Ange walked over and waved her hand in front of Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes while saying, "Wake up."


    Xu Chuanchuan stared at Ange in a daze.


    Retracting her smile, Ange asked, "Did she get angry?"


    "I don''t know." Xu Chuanchuan started getting goosebumps after Murong Shi''s words started settling in her mind. Then, she retold their entire conversation to Ange.


    When Ange was done listening, she fell silent for a moment before saying, "Even a fool can tell she''s jealous."


    <em>...Doesn''t this mean I''m worse than a fool? </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought. Then, she frowned and said, "Wouldn''t a person only feel jealous when it is something that involves someone they like? But I feel that her fondness for me still hasn''t reached such a level. Also, we still haven''t confirmed our rtionship"


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan with interest, Ange asked, "How far have you two gone so far?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up at this question. Then, she lowered her head and timidly said, "We only kissed a few times."


    "How many?"


    "If it''s mouth to moutht-three times."


    "Mouth to mouth?" Ange held back a chuckle. "Are you talking about a French kiss?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed so hard that even her ears had turned red. Then, she nodded her head slightly.


    "Fuck!" Sending a palm nting onto Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulder, Ange excitedly said, "Aren''t you two progressing too quickly?! You haven''t even confirmed your rtionship, yet you''ve already French kissed! Once you''re at the stage of confirming your rtionship, wouldn''t you be rolling on the bed already?!"


    "What nonsense are you saying?!" Xu Chuanchuan shrank her neck, wishing she could hide like a turtle.


    Ange startedughing loudly. After she stoppedughing, though, she put on a straight face and said, "I dated Citrus for half a year. We only held hands throughout that time. We''ve never even touched each other''s lips. You, on the other hand, have already kissed three times, so why haven''t you confirmed your rtionship yet?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan muttered, "I just think that it''s strange"


    "What''s strange?"


    "I think that everything is happening too quickly. We''ve never gone through any of the steps people usually experience before entering a rtionship, so I can''t help but doubt if I might be a casual fling for her"


    "What do you feel about her, then?"


    "I I don''t know."


    Xu Chuanchuan indeed didn''t know how she felt about Murong Shi. Just like Murong Shi had said, during the intimate moments they shared previously, she had always remained on the passive side. Murong Shi always took the initiative to kiss her, while she only passively epted her approaches. When Murong Shi suggested for them to try dating, she had also passively epted the suggestion. Sometimes, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder whether she was actually bent or not.


    Ange was also troubled by this situation, so the two of them ended up staring at each other for a moment.


    Eventually, Ange hooked an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders and confidently said, "Don''t panic. I''ll go meet with her for you."


    TL Notes:


    [1]white lotus: this is a Chinese ng used to refer to someone who is pure in appearance but opposite on the inside.

 Chapter 54: Pt.1

    Chapter 54: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan was also exhausted. After making a memo of some of the inspirations she got from today''s trip, she tossed her phone aside and started chatting with Ange.


    Each of them had a bed of their own in the room. However, Ange had deliberately climbed onto Xu Chuanchuan''s bed and spread her limbs haphazardly. Then, tilting her head and looking at Xu Chuanchuan, Ange said, "So, there''s <em>this </em>much of a difference between your natural face and your face with makeup on."


    "Am I <em>that </em>ugly?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in embarrassment.


    In response, Ange curled up her lips and said, "You''re not ugly, but you don''t look like you''re 25. Your face looks so tender."


    Xu Chuanchuan revealed a bright smile.


    "You''re the type that I like."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s smile froze, and her eyes widened slightly. Then, she subconsciously withdrew her body.


    Seeing this, Angeughed exaggeratedly and said, "I''m joking. If I''m honest, you aren''t my type at all."


    Xu Chuanchuan let out a long sigh of relief at these words. Though, she also couldn''t help but wonder why the people close to her all liked to mess with her. Murong Shi was like that, and so was Ange.


    Suddenly, Ange retracted her smile and stared straight at Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Then, she solemnly said, "I like women who look beautiful, have a strong temperament, and are feminine."


    "...Shoo, shoo, shoo. Go back to your bed."


    Angezily climbed out of Xu Chuanchuan''s bed and returned to her bed. Then, she let out a long sigh before saying, "But I really was too innocent back then. I ended up getting tricked by that face of hers."


    Xu Chuanchuan instinctively wanted to retort to Ange, saying, "How are you innocent?" However, when she turned her head and saw the mncholy look on Ange''s face, she paused for a moment before asking, "Did you only like her face?"


    Revealing a bitter smile, Ange said, "How is that possible? She <em>is</em> my first love after all, so I still hold some feelings for her."


    Shocked, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "She''s your first love?"


    "Is that strange?"


    Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I always thought you were an old driver. I thought you had plenty of experience regarding rtionships..."


    In a dandiacal manner, Ange said, "Even if you don''t know something, you can pretend that you know it. I always thought that I could better protect myself so long as I keep acting like a scoundrel. But, in the end, I still got yed for a fool."


    Xu Chuanchuan sensed that Ange''s tone didn''t sound quite right. Hence, she carefully asked, "What exactly was the reason that made you break up with her?"


    Ange pursed her lips at Xu Chuanchuan''s question. Then, after pondering for some time, she gloomily said, "I initially thought our rtionship was going well. She hade to Shanghai to visit me, and we had also agreed to live together in the future. Yet, before she had even moved in, I discovered her secret."


    "What secret?"


    "Writing is actually just her part-time job. She mainly works as a live streamer. I think you know this as well."


    "I do."


    "Some female streamers have a terrible reputation. I believe you must''ve heard of female streamers having sugar daddies or sleeping with wealthy fans."


    Xu Chuanchuan quietly listened to Ange''s story.


    Then, Ange shrugged and said, "I never thought that the obedient personality she showed to me on the surface was only an act and that she was secretly having ambiguous rtionships with many of her wealthy supporters. These people include both men and women. I even saw conversation histories where she acted coy with some of these tycoons..." Speaking up to this point, Ange suddenly showed an extremely disgusted expression. "Even now, I still feel disgusted whenever I think of these things."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but recall Xu Xiangxiang''s matters while thetter was still working as a streamer. Then, she thought offorting Ange by saying, "You''ll meet someone better in the future." However, she quickly dismissed the thought as she felt that these words sounded too shallow.


    After hesitating for some time, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You''ve cklisted her several times already, so why is she still harassing you?"


    "What was that saying again? The grass is always greener on the other side? Well, she probably just has nothing better to do."


    "Uh..."


    Then, Ange sent Xu Chuanchuan a nce and added, "It''s probably also because she''s a vain person. I am, after all, a well-known author worth tens of millions of yuan. Who wouldn''t want to be my girlfriend?"


    Holding her forehead, Xu Chuanchuan said, "While I know you''re amazing, can you be a little more humble?"


    Ange thumped her bed andughed when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, after catching her breath and wiping the tears from the corner of her eyes, she suddenly changed the conversation''s direction and said, "Basically, what I''m trying to say is that your first rtionship in life is extremely important. If handled poorly, you might end up receiving psychological trauma as I did. I know this is your first time dating someone, so I hope you can be cautious."


    In response to Ange''s warning, Xu Chuanchuan sat up while hugging her pillow. Then, she furrowed her brows and said, "I also understand this line of reasoning, which is also why I''ve been feeling conflicted."


    "Although I''m not an actual old driver, I am still someone capable of clear logic and careful thinking. You can tell me about your concerns; maybe I can help you analyze them."


    "What do you want me to say?"


    Jokingly, Ange said, "I''ve heard you mention her before, but so far, you''ve only told me that she is a domineering person who likes to toy with people. She doesn''t sound like a likable person, no matter how I think about it. If she really is this kind of person, how, exactly, did she manage to bend you? Are you perhaps a masochist?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan buried half her face into her pillow upon hearing Ange''s words. Then, she said in a muffled voice, "She is indeed a hateful person at work, but I found that she has a lot of good points after interacting with her in private."


    "Such as?"


    "Cough. I can''t recall."


    Narrowing her eyes, Ange eximed, "You can''t even say one good thing about her?!"


    After racking her mind for a while, Xu Chuanchuan said in an uncertain tone, "Does being beautiful count?"


    Ange''s face twitched when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s answer. Then, she said, "I didn''t think you were such a superficial person."


    Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly smiled before burying her entire face into her pillow.


    Their conversation on rtionships eventually ended without a conclusion.


    Before going to bed, Ange yawned and ruefully said, "She made you submit in just three kisses. It seems this Murong is quite the old driver."


    Blushing, Xu Chuanchuan softly refuted, "Actually, that was also her first kiss."


    Putting on an expression of doubt, Ange said, "She already knows how to French kiss on her first experience? Tang''er, did you get tricked?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression stiffened as she said, "How can that be? She told me this herself."


    "And you believe everything she says?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded but then quickly shook her head.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan had her suspicions when Murong Shi had kissed her for the first time. Although Xu Chuanchuan had never kissed anyone before prior to that incident, she still knew that it wouldn''t be possible for someone to stick their tongue into another person''s mouth so naturally on their first kiss. However, as she had been afraid and nervous at the time, she couldn''t remember what exactly Murong Shi had done to her that night.


    As for the two subsequent kisses, Murong Shi''s performance had surprised Xu Chuanchuan one time after another. Murong Shi had dived straight into the topic both times, stirring her heart into a mess... Like Ange had said, Murong Shi''s actions really made her seem like an old driver.


    <em>If she has only kissed three times in her life, could she be so proficient at it? Could she have been lying to me?</em>


    <em>But it doesn''t make sense. Even if Murong Shi deliberately lied to me to win my favor, what about Fang Qin? Did Fang Qin say those things to me to help Murong Shi?</em>


    Although the logic made sense, Xu Chuanchuan still felt that it was unreasonable. After all, there was no way Murong Shi would hold so much affection toward her to the point of putting so much effort into tricking her.


    <em>Yet, Murong Shi''s proficiency in kissing is indeed a mystery</em>


    The next time Xu Chuanchuan received a call from Murong Shi was during lunchtime the next day. After Xu Chuanchuan had left the hotel with Ange and was about to ride a taxi to the train station, her phone suddenly started ringing.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw that it was Murong Shi calling, she inadvertently thought of the question that puzzled her. Then, she picked up the call with a delicate mood.


    After the call connected, Murong Shi went straight into the topic and asked, "Are youing back today?"


    While passing her suitcase to Ange and watching thetter load it into the trunk of the taxi, Xu Chuanchuan responded with a casual "mhm."


    "What time will you be arriving?"


    "Around five o''clock. What''s the matter?"


    Without even thinking, Murong Shi said, "I''ll pick you up. We''ll have dinner together."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned. Then, she hurriedly said, "There''s no need for so much trouble. We''ll be heading back to the dormitory after we reach the station."


    "We? Your friend ising back with you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nced at Ange for a moment. Then, she guiltily responded in a quiet voice, "Yes. We''ve finally met after so many years, so she ns on ying around in S City for a while."


    When Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, she suddenly grew worried that Murong Shi would abruptly end their call like she didst night. However, contrary to Xu Chuanchuan''s expectations, Murong Shi said, "Since she''s your friend, then all the more reason for me to properly receive her. Forward your itinerary to me. I''ll bring my car over to pick you up."


    After disconnecting the call, Xu Chuanchuan got into the taxi and said to Ange, "She says she wants to treat you to dinner."


    Pretending to be surprised, Ange said, "Oh my god! So she''sing straight at me? How ruthless!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan''s eyelids jerked a little, and she couldn''t help but have a bad premonition.


    Meanwhile, Ange rolled up her sleeves, opened her handbag, and said, "Although I''ve already lost the first move, I can''t let her belittle me. I need to put on some makeup first."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know whether tough or cry when she received thepact mirror Ange shoved to her. Then, she said, "Aren''t we just having a meal? What are you two nning to do?"


    While wiping the excess oil on her face with a wet tissue, Ange mysteriously said, "Meetings between love rivals are bound to be bloody. You''ll find out afterward."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>I don''t want to find out.</em>

 Chapter 54: Pt.2

    Chapter 54: Pt.2


    One and a half hourster.


    When the high-speed rail arrived at S City, Xu Chuanchuan and Ange alighted from the train with their suitcases in tow.


    Ange always liked to make jokes, so Xu Chuanchuan knew that nothing outrageous would happen even if Ange and Murong Shi met. She only worried that an awkward situation would ur when the two of them met. However, something that Xu Chuanchuan didn''t expect had ended up happening instead.


    When Xu Chuanchuan and Ange left the train station, they found that Murong Shi''s car was already parked by the roadside. However, when they made their way to the car, they found that nobody was inside it. Amidst their confusion, Murong Shi suddenly approached them from a distance with two bottles of iced water in her hands. After giving each of them a bottle, she said, "The weather''s scorching, so take a sip first."


    "Thanks," Ange said after epting the bottle.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi smiled at Ange before saying, "You''re Chuanchuan''s friend, right? What should I call you?"


    <em>Chuanchuan? </em>This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had heard Murong Shi referring to her without her surname, so she couldn''t help but fall into a daze for a moment.


    Unlike Xu Chuanchuan, Ange calmly reacted as she introduced herself, "Hello, my name is Tang Xin."


    Tang Xin was Ange''s real name.


    Then, Murong Shi extended a friendly hand and said, "Hello, my name is Murong Shi. You can call me Murong."


    Seeing the other party taking the initiative to extend an olive branch, Ange naturally had to ept it. After moving the bottled water to her left hand, she shook hands with Murong Shi.


    After shaking hands, Murong Shi looked at the sky and said, "Get in the car and leave your suitcases to me. I''ll help you two move them into the trunk."


    Feeling a little embarrassed, Ange said, "You don''t have to do that."


    "You two must be tired, so head inside and rest first," Murong Shi said, smiling.


    Although Murong Shi''s smile looked harmless, Ange couldn''t help but be triggered by her small gesture.


    Shading her eyes with her hand, Murong Shi said, "Don''t you two find the sun ring?"


    "...Thank you." In the end, Ange had no choice but to pass herrge suitcase to Murong Shi. After getting into the car, she pulled on Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and whispered, "Why is she so tall?"


    Xu Chuanchuan snuck a nce at Murong Shi when she heard Ange''s words. Then, she suppressed her voice and said, "She''s always been very tall. Her natural height is 1.73 meters."


    Gnashing her teeth, Ange said, "Why is she still wearing such tall heels even though she''s already so tall? We look like dwarves standing beside her."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "But after seeing her in person, I finally understand why you would be bent. With such devilish looks, there''s no way anyone can hate her even if she has a horrible personality."


    "...That''s not what you said before."


    Patting her chest, Ange said, "Rx. She won''t fool me. I''ll keep my eyes peeled and thoroughly screen her for you."


    After storing the luggage into the trunk, Murong Shi got into the driver''s seat and nonchntly asked, "I seem to have heard you two discussing me. Were you badmouthing me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately grew nervous at this question.


    Ange was more quick-witted than Xu Chuanchuan. Without even blushing, she said, "We wereplimenting you for how tall, slim, and beautiful you are."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Is that so?" Murong Shi subconsciously nced at Xu Chuanchuan when she heard Ange''s words.


    Noticing Murong Shi''s gaze, Xu Chuanchuan put on an awkward smile and nodded.


    Murong Shi was the one who decided their dinner venue. The restaurant they dined at was a costly one, and even a cold dish cost dozens of yuan while the meat dishes cost several hundred yuan. The three of them ordered three main dishes, one soup, and one dessert. After Xu Chuanchuan roughly calcted their total cost, she found that their meal cost over 2,000 yuan.


    After closing the menu in her hands, Xu Chuanchuan looked toward Murong Shi, who sat opposite of her, and said, "I''ll transfer the money to you."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi took a small sip of green tea before casually saying, "I already said it''s my treat. Is there a need for you to be so courteous with me? You can treat me the next time we eat out."


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently gave up on her notion.


    At this time, Ange interjected, "The food here is quite expensive. She might not need to be courteous with you, but I still need to do so."


    After saying so, Ange pulled out her phone and opened up her WeChat.


    Murong Shi''splexion turned slightly ugly when she saw Ange''s actions, but she still put on a reserved smile and said, "Alright, then. Up to you."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi and Ange conducting their WeChat transaction, she silently took a sip of tea.


    "Miss Tang, you''re from Shanghai, right?" Murong Shi started chatting with Ange in a natural tone.


    Responding with a smile, Ange said, "Yes. Did TChuanchuan tell you about it?"


    "She didn''t tell me anything. I discerned it through your ent."


    "Do I have an ent?" Ange asked as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan had been ruminating over the first half of Murong Shi''s words, which seemed to contain a hint ofint. When she heard Ange''s question, she quickly snapped out of her daze and shook her head, saying, "No, I don''t hear any ent."


    Murong Shi smiled and did not say anything more.


    After the food was served, the three of them stopped chatting and started eating in silence. Partway through the meal, Xu Chuanchuan excused herself to go to the restroom.


    Ange: "I want to go as well."


    Murong Shi: "I''ll go with you."


    The two spoke simultaneously. Then, the two gave each other a nce.


    Xu Chuanchuan scratched her head when subjected to this awkward situation. Then, she said, "Let''s all go together, then."


    A gleam briefly shed in Murong Shi''s eyes. Then, she sighed and said, "Nevermind. You two go first. I''ll watch over our bags."


    Ange epted Murong Shi''s concession and dragged Xu Chuanchuan away without hesitation.


    After arriving at a deserted location, Ange stopped her feet and hid the two of them behind a potted nt. Then, she pointed at Murong Shi''s location and said, "Let''s watch."


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Watch what?"


    "We''ll see if she explodes in rage."


    However, after observing Murong Shi for a while, they only saw her cing down her chopsticks and fiddling with her phone. Her expression also looked rtively calm.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that spying on someone like this was terrible. So, she tugged at Ange''s shirt and said, "Let''s go."


    Meanwhile, Ange clicked her tongue and said, "Did I not agitate her enough?"


    "Why are you trying to agitate her?"


    Grinning, Ange said, "Isn''t she treating me as an imaginary love rival? I''ll satisfy her wish, then! Also, agitating her isn''t exactly a bad idea. We can judge whether she is actually concerned about you through her reactions."


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "She seems quite friendly to you."


    "That''s why I think it''s strange."


    While Ange and Xu Chuanchuan were conducting espionage, Murong Shi was browsing her Weibo ount.


    It had been nearly a month since Murong Shi had logged into her Weibo. During the past two days, she had revisited the ount out of boredom. As luck would have it, she happened to see Xu Chuanchuan making a post about her IRL meeting with Ange.


    When Murong Shi saw the post, she instantly realized why Xu Chuanchuan was reluctant to reveal much about her trip. It turned out that Ange was the person Xu Chuanchuan was going to meet. The two of them were good friends who had known each other for six years. Their rtionship was so excellent that even their readers felt envious of them.


    Meanwhile, when Murong Shi visited Ange''s Weibo and saw thements left under Ange''stest post, she couldn''t help but haveplicated feelings.


    Regardless of whether thementers were joking or not, almost everyone hoped Xu Chuanchuan and Ange could end up together. They all thought that the two were a good match for each other.


    However, Murong Shi didn''t care about what others thought of the matter. Instead, what she was concerned about were Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts.


    Ange was Xu Chuanchuan''s closest friend. The two shared simr interests and endless topics to talk about. Moreover, when it came to writing novels, Ange, as a well-established author, could provide Xu Chuanchuan with a lot of help. When looking at it from this perspective, Murong Shi found that Xu Chuanchuan and Ange were indeed a good match for each other.


    To avoid exposing herself, Murong Shi did not reveal Ange''s identity right off the bat. However, when Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan and Ange chatting merrily with each other before the meal, she inadvertently lost confidence. She couldn''t help but wish she could drag Xu Chuanchuan to a corner and question her, "Are you done considering now?"


    There were still three days before Murong Shi''s one-week promise with Xu Chuanchuan was up. Anything could happen during these three days, and Ange might very well y a vital role in affecting Xu Chuanchuan''s decision.


    Upon hearing movement approaching the table, Murong Shi stored away her phone and looked up at the two returning people. Then, she asked, "You two took quite a while. Were there a lot of people?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan muttered, "Mhm. We needed to wait in line."


    "In that case, I''ll avoid going there for now," Murong Shi calmly said as she watched Ange and Xu Chuanchuan taking a seat opposite of her.


    Murong Shi didn''t have much of an appetite, so she became the first to set down her chopsticks. After taking a look at the time, she said, "It''s getting quitete. Miss Tang, have you made reservations for a hotel yet?"


    "Ah, I almost forgot. I haven''t made any reservations yet."


    "It doesn''t matter. There are many hotels nearby. I can drop you off in my car once we''re done eating."


    Wiping her mouth with a napkin, Ange said, "I originally nned to stay at Chuanchuan''s ce for a few nights."


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes slightly at Ange''s words. Then, she slowly said, "But she is living in ourpany''s employee dormitory."


    "I know, but doesn''t she have a room to herself? I don''t mind even if it''s a little cramped."


    Murong Shi''s expression darkened, and she started rhythmically tapping a finger against the table. Although she still wore a smile on her face, her smile did not reach her eyes. Then, in a lukewarm tone, she said, "I have the final say when ites to matters rting to thepany. I know that you are Chuanchuan''s friend and that you have traveled a great distance to visit her. I know I should make an exception and let you stay with her for a few days as a show of courtesy, but thepany has regtions. Since Chuanchuan is an employee of thepany, she will have to operate based on those regtions. Otherwise, I''m afraid that others will gossip behind her back, which will negatively affect her reputation. I hope you can understand this."


    Murong Shi had worded her excuse wlessly, so there was nothing Ange could say about it. Hence, sheplied and said, "Of course, of course, I understand."


    In the end, Murong Shi had driven Ange to a nearby hotel.


    After making sure that Ange had a ce to stay, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi left the hotel.


    Once outside the hotel, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Thank you very much for today."


    In response, Murong Shi tly said, "You''re wee. Get in the car."


    After getting in the car, Murong Shi hardly gave Xu Chuanchuan any buffer time as she said, "You still have three days to consider."


    That fast? Xu Chuanchuan panicked. Then, she said, "I might need to entertain my friend these few days."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "I can give you some extra time."


    Maybe because Murong Shi was focused on driving, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel as if Murong Shi''s attitude was a little cold. And as she couldn''t think of any topics to talk about, the atmosphere in the car gradually grew quiet.


    Eventually, the car arrived downstairs of thepany building. After hesitating for some time, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly said, "I have a question."


    Murong Shi had half of her face covered by her hair. Then, revealing a nd expression, she asked, "What question?"


    Although the wound on Xu Chuanchuan''s lower lip had mostly healed already, it still hurt a little when her teeth bit down on it. After wetting her lips, Xu Chuanchuan stared at Murong Shi and said, "When you kissed me for the first time... Was that really your first kiss?"


    Murong Shi frowned, seemingly annoyed by the question. "Are you doubting me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan tightly intertwined her ten fingers as she said, "I was just wondering why you were so....so proficient if it was your first time."


    A smile appeared on Murong Shi''s face when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. She briefly stretched out her hand toward Xu Chuanchuan''s chin but quickly retracted it before making contact. Then, after staring at the small scab on Xu Chuanchuan''s lower lip for a moment, she helplessly said, "I learned it through reading erotica."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan gaped in shock. Then, she eximed, "You read erotica?!"


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "The author wrote it very well. Every step was described in great detail. Not only did the erotica teach me how to kiss, but it also taught me <em>other </em>things. If the opportunity arises, we can try those...other things," Murong Shi said as she agilely moved her slender fingers toward Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t dense to the point where she would ask about those "other things." After ignoring Murong Shi''s evil fingers, she opened the door beside her. Then, with a blushing face, she said, "I''m going. Drive safely on your way back."

 Chapter 55: Pt.1

    Chapter 55: Pt.1


    After Xu Chuanchuan left, Murong Shi did not leave thepany immediately. Instead, she opened up her phone''s photo album and clicked on the folder designated for Weibo images.


    There were several images densely packed with text in the folder. If one erged these images and spliced them together, one would find that these texts made up two different articles and shared amon thememeat.


    However, the "meat" here held two different meanings. The meat in the first article referred to a mouth-watering dish, while the meat in the second article referred to an erotic bed scene that would cause the bodies of readers to heat up. The first article came out of the hands of the author named I Love Mtang, while the second article came from Ange''s hands.


    The so-called kissing technique Murong Shi mentioned to Xu Chuanchuan previously was something she learned after reading Ange''s detailed "guidance."


    When Murong Shi first put this knowledge to test on Xu Chuanchuan, she still wasn''t sure how much of the technique she managed to master. When their lips intertwined with each other, she found the sensation to be quite mysterious. It felt as if two sources of heat had collided and merged. It felt both soft andfortable. However, before Murong Shi could properly savor the experience, Xu Chuanchuan, surprised by her action, had pushed her away.


    In the next two attempts, Murong Shi had acted with increasing patience. When she thoroughly applied the techniques she learned from Ange''s erotica on Xu Chuanchuan''s body, she sensed that Xu Chuanchuan became more epting of her. She even sensed that Xu Chuanchuan had started enjoying her kisses, so she couldn''t help but feel delighted.


    However, never had Murong Shi thought that this woman would start to question her after returning from a two-day trip!


    Murong Shi knew that Xu Chuanchuan was someone who liked to overthink matters. The woman would always hold suspicion toward things that she couldn''t see through, and she would have a constant urge to get to the bottom of things. However, Murong Shi could also feel that Xu Chuanchuan''s previous remarks didn''t originate from her own intentions. Instead, she suspected that someone was fanning the mes by Xu Chuanchuan''s ears.


    Murong Shi pinned Ange as the culprit without hesitation.


    Then, when Murong Shi recalled the Weiboments pairing Xu Chuanchuan with Ange, she couldn''t help but grow agitated.


    In the end, Murong Shi had only left thepany after receiving a phone call from Murong Mingshu.


    Seeing that Ange had finally visited her, Xu Chuanchuan originally nned to take some time off work to spend the next few days with her. However, Ange said, "You don''t need to worry about me. I don''t want to go out in such hot weather, either."


    "Are you nning to hole up in the hotel every day?"


    "Mhm. I need to work."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan knew that Ange was a writing maniac, she didn''t wish her friend to stay cooped up in the hotel. Hence, she promised to apany Ange after she got off work in the evening.


    Before work hours ended, Murong Shi had called Xu Chuanchuan to pay her a visit. As soon as Xu Chuanchuan closed the doors to the office, Murong Shi got straight to the point and asked, "What ns do you two have for tonight?"


    "We don''t have any special ns. We''ll probably grab something to eat first. Then, I''ll bring her to tour around the city."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Don''t stay out for too long. It''s dangerous for two young women to walk around at night."


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I know. We''ll try to return as early as possible."


    "Do you need a driver?"


    "What?"


    Murong Shi seemingly felt a little embarrassed as she turned her head away. Then, she said, "I was just asking. You...focus on entertaining your friend."


    "Okay."


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought Murong Shi would put her through a thorough interrogation, so she didn''t expect to be spared so easily.


    After getting off work, Xu Chuanchuan headed straight to the hotel Ange was staying at. And upon meeting up, she retold the little episode she had just now to Ange.


    When Ange was done listening, she gleefully said, "It seems my arrival poses a threat to a certain someone. I can''t believe she thinks I''ll take you away."


    Wearing aplicated expression, Xu Chuanchuan timidly said, "I don''t think she would think that way."


    Ange didn''tment on Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she said, "If she asks again next time, say that we''recking a driver and have here along with you."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw the sly smile on Ange''s face, she asked worriedly, "Are you nning on agitating her again?"


    "Calling it agitating is a little too much. I''m just doing a little probing."


    "..."


    The first night went by peacefully.


    After Xu Chuanchuan saw Ange off at the hotel and returned to the dormitory, she found Murong Shi and Little Yan eating lychees in the living room.


    Hearing movementing from the front door, Little Yan turned around and waved at Xu Chuanchuan, saying, "Chuanchuan,e and have some lychees."


    Walking over, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Did Aunt Lian bring these from the countryside again?"


    While nonchntly peeling a lychee, Murong Shi answered, "I bought them myself. Do you want some?"


    "Sure. I''ll go wash my hands first," Xu Chuanchuan said with a smile.


    However, before Xu Chuanchuan could leave for the bathroom, Murong Shi suddenly popped a peeled lychee into her mouth and said, "It''s very sweet. Try it."


    When Xu Chuanchuan noticed Little Yan staring at their interaction with widened eyes, her face heated up slightly.


    "Oh my" Little Yan suddenly eximed. Then, while rubbing her stomach, she said, "I''m full. I''m going to take a bath first, so you two take your time."


    While Little Yan was returning to her room to retrieve a change of clothes, Xu Chuanchuan quickly pushed the lychee to the side of her mouth. Then, she abashedly said, "I''ll go wash my hands first."


    After tossing her bag onto the sofa, Xu Chuanchuan quickly fled into the bathroom.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan came out of the bathroom, Little Yan walked into it with a smile on her face. While walking past Xu Chuanchuan, Little Yan whispered, "Cousin was wearing an ugly look on her face before you came home."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tensed at these words. When she returned to the living room, Murong Shi offered a big and round lychee to her.


    "Thank you." Xu Chuanchuan epted the lychee but did not peel it immediately. She wanted to ask Murong Shi if she had been deliberately waiting for her, but she couldn''t bring herself to ask such an embarrassing question. So, after a slight pause, she asked, "Were you working overtime today?"


    "I''m a little tired, so no," Murong Shi said while moving her stiff neck.


    They sat only two meters apart from each other, so Xu Chuanchuan could hear the cracking sounds of joint movement. After hearing these sounds, she finally noticed the exhaustion on Murong Shi''s face. And when she remembered that she had abandoned Murong Shi to have fun with Ange, she immediately felt guilty. So, after hesitating for a short moment, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you want me to give you a massage?"


    Stunned, Murong Shi asked, "You know how to give a massage?"


    "Not really, but back at home, I would usually massage my mom''s shoulders and back whenever she''s tired."


    "Wouldn''t that be an honor for me, then?" Murong Shi said, her lips curling upwards.


    Rubbing her nose, Xu Chuanchuan said, "What if my skills aren''t good?"


    "It''s okay. I don''t mind."


    Xu Chuanchuan still held a lychee in her hand. Then, after hesitating whether she should put it away or not, she peeled the lychee and pushed the supple flesh to Murong Shi''s mouth.


    "What''s this for?" Murong Shi asked with an amused smile.


    The white and tender flesh gently was in contact with Murong Shi''s lips, so when Murong Shi spoke, Xu Chuanchuan could sense slight vibrationsing through the tip of her fingers. Then, Xu Chuanchuan blushed and said, "It''s for you to eat."


    Murong Shi took a long look at Xu Chuanchuan before she opened her mouth and bit down on the lychee. In the process of doing so, she also caressed the tip of Xu Chuanchuan''s fingers with her soft tongue.


    Xu Chuanchuan withdrew her hand as if she were shocked by electricity. Then, after rubbing off the liquid stuck to her fingers onto her shirt, she spoke in a strange voice, "I''ll start, then."


    Murong Shi had long arms and legs. Her bones were also slightlyrger than the average woman''s. Yet, both her body and shoulders were very thin. When Xu Chuanchuan ced her hands onto Murong Shi''s shoulders, she felt as if she grabbed a handful of bones. Then, she tentatively began pinching Murong Shi''s tendons.


    "<em>Hiss</em>" Murong Shi inhaled sharply.


    "Does it hurt a lot?" Xu Chuanchuan asked as she paused her actions.


    After catching her breath, Murong Shi shook her head and said, "It''s fine. Continue."


    Afraid that Murong Shi would be in pain, Xu Chuanchuan dared not use too much strength afterward. However, Xu Chuanchuan''s gentle massage ended up tingling Murong Shi instead of achieving anything useful. Suppressing her smile, Murong Shi said, "I won''t be paying you if you keep this up."


    Irked by Murong Shi''sment, Xu Chuanchuan squeezed down on Murong Shi''s shoulders with all her might.


    "Ouch" Murong Shi cried out in pain.


    "<em>Cough.</em> My bad."


    Gritting her teeth, Murong Shi said, "It''s fine."


    Xu Chuanchuan constantly experienced soreness in her cervical spine, shoulder area, and lumbar area because of her work as a novel author. However, as she had been cking these past few days, she didn''t feel any of these diforts as she normally did. While massaging Murong Shi, she suddenly thought of something and asked, "Did you massage Little Yan like thisst time?"


    "That''s different. That massage required the use of essential oils, and its effects are better."


    Without even thinking about it, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you still have any leftover essential oils?"


    Murong Shi turned around to look at Xu Chuanchuan when she heard this question, a strange light shing across her eyes. Meanwhile, when Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi''s face, she felt as if thetter was smiling, and she couldn''t help but have a bad premonition.


    The next second, Murong Shi reverted to her calm expression and asked, "You want to give me a massage with essential oils as well?"


    "Didn''t you say its effects are better? I don''t know how it works exactly, but you can teach me."


    "That won''t do. It doesn''t suit you."


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why?"


    After taking a long look at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "I''ll need to remove my clothes for that."


    "..."


    "I''m afraid you''ll take advantage of me."


    Timidly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not thinking of taking advantage of you."


    "That makes it an even bigger no-no. You''ll have to take responsibility once you see it. Are you able to take responsibility?"


    "..."


    By the time Little Yan came out of the bathroom, the interaction between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had already ended. After stretching her back, Murong Shi said, "I feel a lot better now. Thank you."


    "You''re wee."


    "Alright, I''m heading back."

 Chapter 55: Pt.2

    Chapter 55: Pt.2


    From start to end, Xu Chuanchuan never heard Murong Shi asking her about her rtionship with Ange. It was as if Murong Shi didn''t care who she went out to y with.


    While Xu Chuanchuan knew Ange testing Murong Shi was something done for her own good, she still couldn''t help but feel that it was cruel for Murong Shi.


    When Ange heard Xu Chuanchuan''s worries, she shook her head and sighed. Then, she said, "You say you two still aren''t officially together, yet you''re already so protective of her. Who are you trying to trick?"


    "I just think this is too childish... Moreover, I really think she doesn''t care much about these things."


    "Doesn''t care? If she doesn''t care, then why would she be so eager to send me off to a hotelst night? She''s just acting calm on the surface," Ange said. Then, cing her hands on Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders, she continued, "Tang''er, you''ve already fallen. Just ept your fate."


    Ange said that she still had three cats and dogs waiting to be fed at home, so she couldn''t continue staying in S City.


    Before Ange left, Murong Shi treated her to another meal. This time, though, Ange epted the offer with a smile before saying, "If you two happen toe to Shanghai, it''ll be my turn to entertain you."


    After the three of them shared a toast using fruit juice, Murong Shi put down her ss and said, "Won''t you stay for a few more days?"


    At Murong Shi''s question, Ange turned to look at Xu Chuanchuan, who sat beside her. Then, she sighed and faking a look of grievance before saying, "I want to, but Chuanchuan has to go to work during the day and entertain me after she gets off work. I''m afraid she''ll overexert herself."


    Failing to realize Ange''s intentions, Xu Chuanchuan smiled like a fool as she said, "I don''t find it tiresome at all."


    Then, holding onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hands, Ange said, "You might not feel tired, but it still hurts my heart seeing you running around like this."


    Xu Chuanchuan got goosebumps when she heard Ange''s pretentious voice, and she couldn''t help but look at her friend as if asking, "Are you okay?"


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze, Ange quickly winked at the other party and said, "Hah... We just met, yet we''re already separating. I really can''t bear it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." At this point, even a fool could tell that something was wrong with Ange, so Xu Chuanchuan decided to ignore all of her friend''s antics.


    Meanwhile, Ange continued her act and said, "I''ll miss you."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan originally intended to continue ying dumb. But when Ange cruelly pinched her thigh under the table, she had no choice but to cooperate and dryly said, "I''ll miss you too."


    Unfortunately, this still wasn''t the end of Ange''s act.


    Right before going through the security checkpoint at the airport, Ange suddenly turned around and hugged Xu Chuanchuan tightly. Then, she said, "Actually, I''ve been waiting for you all these years."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body stiffened as she asked, "W-Waiting for me for what?"


    "Waiting for you to give me an answer."


    "...What answer?"


    Gently poking Xu Chuanchuan''s forehead with her forefinger, Ange ambiguously said, "You get it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>I don''t get it!</em>


    Ange reluctantly released Xu Chuanchuan from her embrace, though she still held onto one of Xu Chuanchuan''s hands. Then, affectionately, she said, "Once you think things through, you cane to find me at any time."


    They had never nned for such an act beforehand, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be stunned by Ange''s current performance.


    At this time, Murong Shi suddenly approached the two and indifferently said, "There are chairs over there. Do you want to go there and continue your conversation? You''re blocking others here."


    Xu Chuanchuan and Ange briefly exchanged looks with each other.


    Murong Shi''s words were seemingly effective at resolving the situation as Ange reverted to her usual self. Before letting go of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, though, she leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and whispered, "Tang''er, I''m leaving now."


    As Murong Shi was standing nearby, Xu Chuanchuan could only mutter her goodbye in her heart, Goodbye, Ange.


    After readjusting her mood, Xu Chuanchuan smiled at Murong Shi and said, "Let''s go."


    However, Murong Shi did not move. Instead, she stared at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "How did you and Tang Xin meet?"


    <em>She didn''t ask me about this during the past few days, so why is she suddenly asking as soon as Ange left? Did she get triggered by Ange''s parting act?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not think too deeply into the matter. After letting her eyes wander for a moment, she answered, "We...used to be ssmates."


    "What kind of ssmate?"


    "University," Xu Chuanchuan said with a straight face.


    Murong Shi''s gaze remained on Xu Chuanchuan''s face for a long time, so long that Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder if her face had betrayed her. Fortunately, Murong Shi eventually said, "Let''s go back."


    The atmosphere in the car was cold and silent on the way back.


    Xu Chuanchuan could vaguely sense that Murong Shi was in a bad mood, but she couldn''t tell the cause. After careful deliberation, she said, "I bought a massager for Aunt Lian online. Help me bring it to her."


    "Mhm," Murong Shi responded indifferently.


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated for a moment when she heard Murong Shi''s response. Then, she said, "You don''t seem to be happy."


    "There''s nothing to be happy about."


    Xu Chuanchuan choked and stopped talking.


    After a long while, Murong Shi suddenly said, "Let''s get something to eat."


    "Okay."


    Xu Chuanchuan had already grown used to letting Murong Shi take the lead. However, now that Murong Shi was behaving indifferently, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly found herself reverting to her previous self, where she was nothing but a bewildered office assistant that would act fearfully in front of her superiors. This feeling made her very uneasy.


    After another period of silence, Xu Chuanchuan finally couldn''t hold it in anymore and said, "Forget it. Let''s not eat."


    Murong Shi grimaced at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, sending the shorter woman a nce, she asked, "Why?"


    While rubbing her temples, Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly said, "I feel a little carsick. I want to go back and lie down." Of course, the motion sickness was an excuse, but Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t faking her difort.


    There was no ce to park the car on a highway, so Murong Shi stepped on the elerator and sped to the nearest gas station. After parking the car, she helped Xu Chuanchuan out of the vehicle.


    After supporting Xu Chuanchuan to a stone pir as support, Murong Shi lowered her head and noticed that Xu Chuanchuan''s lips were slightly pale. Then, she asked, "How are you feeling?"


    After swallowing some saliva, Xu Chuanchuan said, "My chest feels a little stuffy."


    "Should I rub it for you?" Murong Shi offered.


    Startled by the suggestion, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly protected her chest.


    Murong Shi broke intoughter when she saw this. Then, she extended a hand and gently patted Xu Chuanchuan''s back before saying, "I forgot you get carsick easily. I should''ve prepared some water in the car. Also, stop licking your lips. They''ll only get drier the more you do it."


    Xu Chuanchuan would subconsciously lick her lips whenever she felt parched. While she resisted the urge to lick her lips again, she suddenly felt her chin being grabbed. Then, when she found herself staring into Murong Shi''s dark and slender eyes, her mind instantly went nk.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s lower lip with her thumb. Then, focusing her gaze on a particr spot, she asked, "Is it alright now?"


    It took some time for Xu Chuanchuan to realize that Murong Shi was referring to the small wound she had given herself previously. After understanding the question, she nodded in a daze.


    Then, Murong Shi gradually shifted her gaze upward and indifferently said, "I feel that the rtionship between you and Ange isn''t an ordinary one."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she heard Murong Shi''s question, and she couldn''t help but wonder, Did I get exposed?


    After calming herself, Xu Chuanchuan said, "She is my closest friend."


    "Just friends?" Murong Shi asked, her eyebrows furrowed.


    "Yes. If not, w-what else?" Xu Chuanchuan said. Her mouth had be so dry that she started stammering.


    Murong Shi stared straight into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes for a moment before saying, "Tang Xin likes you. I''m sure you can see that, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan abashedly smiled and said, "If she doesn''t like me, how could the two of us be best friends?"


    In response, Murong Shi said in a deep voice, "You know I''m not talking about the kind of liking that''s only limited to friends. Tang Xin also likes women. Did you not get any of the hints she said to you at the airport?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was shocked. She never thought Murong Shi could tell that Ange liked women.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan did her best to remain calm, she inwardly shouted, <em>That was an act! It was all an act to trick you!</em>


    At the same time, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but curse Ange for leaving her with such a mess.


    After racking her mind for some time, Xu Chuanchuan said, "She and I... We..."


    "I don''t care what kind of thoughts she has toward you. I only want to know what you think of her," Murong Shi interrupted.


    Murong Shi''s words were akin to salvation for Xu Chuanchuan, and she secretly heaved a sigh of relief. Initially, Xu Chuanchuan wanted to smile when she realized her troubles had disappeared. But when she saw the stern look on Murong Shi''s face, she quickly suppressed her emotions and said, "She will forever be my best friend."


    "Really?" Murong Shi asked in an eager tone.


    Pretending to be calm, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Of course. I''ve known her for six years. If I''m going to have feelings for her, I would''ve long since had them."


    Murong Shi''s tensed eyebrows rxed upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s answer. Then, she revealed a happy smile and pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s chin, saying, "Hearing that eases me."


    The two stood by the stone pir for a while. After breathing in the smell of tar for a time, the awkward silence between them gradually disappeared. Though, because of how close they were to each other, a hint of ambiguity also began appearing in the atmosphere surrounding them.


    When Xu Chuanchuan sensed a sudden increase in the pressure on her chin, she promptly came back to her senses and broke free of Murong Shi''s restraint. Then, she timidly said, "I''m fine now. Let''s go."


    After getting back into the car, Murong Shi pulled out a pack of chewing gum from her bag and handed it to Xu Chuanchuan. "Chew on this. It should make you feel better."


    Xu Chuanchuan pulled out a stick of gum, unwrapped it, and put it into her mouth. While chewing and stretching the gum, she asked, "So you bring gum with you? But I''ve never seen you chew on any before."


    A gleam shed across Murong Shi''s eyes as she watched Xu Chuanchuan''s little tongue looming between her lips and teeth. Then, in an ambiguous tone, she said, "I didn''t have this habit before, but I''ll probably bring it often in the future."


    "Do you get carsick as well?"


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether she shouldugh at Xu Chuanchuan''s dullness or say that the woman was simple-minded. Then, she extended a hand to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Give me a piece."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan decided to provide theplete service, unwrapping the chewing gum and stuffing it straight into Murong Shi''s mouth.


    Xu Chuanchuan had only heard of people enjoying cigarettes or drinks in a car; never had she heard of people enjoying gum in a car. Nevertheless, Murong Shi had parked the car outside the gas station, and the two stared at each other while chewing gum. No matter how one looked at this scene, it was undoubtedly a strange one.


    It was mentioned that chewing gum could relieve stuffy chests and shortness of breath. While Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know if it was only a psychological effect, she indeed felt better after she started chewing the gum. After Xu Chuanchuan had chewed her gum to the point that it had lost all taste, she spat it out onto a piece of tissue paper.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi was still chewing hers, the expression she showed making it seem as if the gum was some delicacy. However, Murong Shi''s eyes were so focused on the person in front of her that Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder if the thing in Murong Shi''s mouth wasn''t gum but Xu Chuanchuan herself instead...


    <em>A misconception. This must be a misconception.</em>


    Just when Xu Chuanchuan was about to turn away, Murong Shi grabbed the tissue paper in her hand and spat out the gum in her mouth. Then, she bundled the tissue paper and threw it into the hanging trash can in the car.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan straightened her back and quietly waited for Murong Shi to start the engine. Yet, instead of doing so, Murong Shi had leaned closer to Xu Chuanchuan and gently blew into her ear instead.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan instinctively shrank her neck while her sensitive ear quivered slightly.


    Seemingly having found something interesting, Murong Shi flicked the lobe of Xu Chuanchuan''s red ear and smiled, saying, "Why have I never noticed this cute thing before?"


    Xu Chuanchuan widened her eyes and hurriedly covered her right ear.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi''s smile grew even wider upon seeing this. Then, after forcefully moving Xu Chuanchuan''s hands away, she looked at the shorter woman''s embarrassed expression and said in a low voice, "We''ll have a piece of gum whenever we''re about to kiss now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan widened her eyes and quickly covered her mouth. Then, she said in a muffled voice, I''ll puke if you kiss me now!"


    "..." Murong Shi''s smile gradually disappeared.


    TL Notes:


    A moment of silence for Ange.

 Chapter 56: Pt.1

    Chapter 56: Pt.1


    When Murong Mingshu called, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan were still on the highway. After Murong Shi slowed down the car and answered the call, she heard the other side saying, "You said you were sending off a friend. What''s taking so long?"


    If they hadn''t spent 20-odd minutes taking a break on the highway, they would''ve long since reached the city by now.


    After clearing her throat, Murong Shi said, "I''m reaching soon. Is something the matter?"


    "Aunt Lian stewed some green bean soup. Do you want it iced or hot?"


    "Iced."


    "Okay. I''ll keep it in the fridge for you. Make sure you remember to eat it."


    Murong Shi initially wanted to say she wouldn''t be going home for lunch today. However, when she saw a certain someone holding onto their chest as if they were in pain, she pondered for a moment before saying, "Mom, have Aunt Lian make some more. I''m bringing a friend back today."


    Xu Chuanchuan, who was in a severe state of motion sickness, was shocked when she heard Murong Shi''s words. When she saw Murong Shi storing her phone away, she hurriedly asked, "Am I that friend you mentioned?"


    "Who else could it be but you?" Murong Shi asked with a raised eyebrow.


    "Wouldn''t it be an inconvenience if I suddenly visit your house?" Xu Chuanchuan asked. She was astonished by this situation.


    "Aunt Lian likes you so much while my mom is an easygoing person. My dad isn''t home, either. What inconvenience could there be?" Murong Shi asked. After a slight pause, she added, "Didn''t you say you bought a massager for Aunt Lian? You can give it to her in person."


    Unable to make a decision, Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly said, "But I only bought one. Wouldn''t it be awkward if I give one to Aunt Lian but not your mother?"


    After making sure that the road ahead was clear, Murong Shi took a nce at Xu Chuanchuan and calmly said, "Aunt Lian has given you food while you''re giving her a gift as a show of gratitude. My mother has never given you anything, so why do you need to prepare a gift for her?"


    "Uh..."


    Then, Murong Shi''s lips curled upward slightly as she teased, "You only need to prepare gifts when you''re meeting your inws. Are you already done considering?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth moved a little. However, as she didn''t know how she should answer Murong Shi''s question, she eventually pursed her lips and lowered her head.


    If it was from a friend''s standpoint, Xu Chuanchuan had no reason to refuse Murong Shi''s invitation. Moreover, she still owed Aunt Lian a word of gratitude for the meal and fruits she received.


    As for the massager, Xu Chuanchuan decided to leave it be for now. After all, she had only bought one. She couldn''t bring herself to give only Aunt Lian a gift and nothing for Murong Shi''s mother.


    When Murong Shi heard Xu Chuanchuan''s decision, she didn''t voice any objections. Instead, she said, "So be it. We can save making a big detour that way. Are you still carsick?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded.


    "Why don''t you drive?"


    The two changed positions.


    There wasn''t much traffic on the highway. But, when Xu Chuanchuan thought about how she would be visiting Murong Shi''s house as a guestter on, she couldn''t help but grow uneasy. So, she took the initiative to strike up a conversation with Murong Shi. They talked about food and work. Even Fang Qin had ended up being included in their conversation.


    "I haven''t seen Fang Qin visit you recently," Xu Chuanchuan said.


    After finally getting an opportunity to rx, Murong Shi sat in the passenger seatzily. She rested her cheek on one hand and let her long hair cover half her face. Then, she slowly said, "She only returned to the country recently, so she should be busy looking for a job now. Also, you still remember her? It''s been so long since youst met her."


    With her eyes focused ahead, Xu Chuanchuan frankly said, "That day at the bar, I saw her sighing while drinking, so I guessed that she must be in a bad mood. She was also sitting beside me at the time, so it''s hard not to remember."


    Most importantly, Xu Chuanchuan had heard from Fang Qin regarding Murong Shi''s first kiss in that bar, so her memory of that day was still fresh in her mind.


    While twirling a lock of hair with her fingertips, Murong Shi gradually narrowed her eyes before saying, "She met her ex-girlfriend for the first time in that bar. It''d be strange if she can be in a good mood."


    Xu Chuanchuan lightly stepped on the brakes when she heard Murong Shi''s answer. Then, she sent a nce at Murong Shi and asked, "Ex-girlfriend? Fang Qin likes women too?"


    "Mhm."


    "Then..."


    "What?"


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I have a question. Did you like girls since young?"


    Murong Shi had never been asked such a question before. After thinking it over in earnest, she said, "To be precise, I never had any particrly strong feelings toward men and women in the past, though I did have a small preference toward females, that is until..."


    "Hm? Why did you stop talking?" Xu Chuanchuan curiously asked.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, she felt her left wrist being grabbed. She was so surprised by the sudden physical contact that she nearly drove the car off the road.


    Murong Shi didn''t put any force into her hand. Instead, while letting her hand rest on Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist, she stared at the other party''s profile and said, "Until that time where I drank too much and identally kissed you. After that incident, my preference started intensifying."


    What did it feel like to receive a confession while driving? Xu Chuanchuan now knew the answer to that question.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heartbeat elerated when she heard Murong Shi''s answer, and the lightheadedness she experienced before instantly disappeared. Then, after secretly swallowing her saliva, she said, "I can''t drive well if you hold onto my hand like that."


    Murong Shi removed her hand from Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist, only to ce it on Xu Chuanchuan''s thigh immediately afterward.


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped when she felt Murong Shi''s touch again. After taking a nce at her thigh, she asked Murong Shi, "What are you doing?"


    "Driving is tough, so I thought to give you a massage."


    "Hey, hey, hey! I''m still driving!"


    Murong Shi snickered at Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. This time, though, she finally retracted her hands. Then, she asked, "Are you still nervous?"


    It took Xu Chuanchuan a moment to realize that Murong Shi was asking her about theing visit. After thinking about it carefully, she realized that her anxiety had decreased substantially after Murong Shi''s messing around.


    ...


    Eventually, the car entered the city limits and arrived at an elegant residential area. Under Murong Shi''s instructions, Xu Chuanchuan parked the vehicle under a high-ss condo.


    After turning off the engine, Xu Chuanchuan unfastened her seatbelt and carefully inspected the foreign environment. Then, she asked, "What''s the name of this district?"


    "Longteng District," Murong Shi said. She had nearly answered Xu Chuanchuan without thinking for a moment. However, before she did so, she suddenly thought of something, so she ended up saying the name of the neighboring district instead.


    Fortunately for Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan did not doubt her answer. After getting out of the car, Xu Chuanchuan carefully followed Murong Shi.


    Then, Murong Shi suddenly held Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    "What are you doing?"


    "I''m afraid you''ll get lost."


    "...Your excuse is terrible."


    Murong Shi put on a beautiful smile in response to Xu Chuanchuan''s words. However, the subsequent words that came out of her mouth were not at all beautiful as she shamelessly said, "That''s right. I''m using this chance to hold your hand."


    Xu Chuanchuan turned away in embarrassment. Then, she said, "We''re still not officially together."


    However, as if having prepared for such an answer, Murong Shi firmly said, "You''ll be meeting your future inws in a moment anyway. As for those formalities you speak of, they don''t matter at all."


    "When did it be a meeting with inws?!" Xu Chuanchuan eximed with widened eyes.


    Murong Shi smiled but did not speak. Afterward, she tightened her hold on Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and guided thetter into the elevator.


    Upon meeting Xu Chuanchuan, Aunt Lian was both surprised and thrilled. "Little Xu!"


    Xu Chuanchuan shyly smiled and greeted, "Long time no see, Aunt Lian."


    Smiling brightly, Aunt Lian said, "When Little Shi said she was bringing a friend over, her mother and I thought she would be bringing a boyfriend home. I didn''t expect it to be you.


    <em>Boyfriend?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan nced at Murong Shi, but thetter didn''t provide an exnation.


    Then, Aunt Lian eagerly said, "You might not know this, but Little Shi has beening backte every night recently. When we asked if she was working overtime, she said she had appointments. If she didn''t get herself a boyfriend, where would she find so many appointments every day?"


    Upon hearing Aunt Lian''s words, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly smiled and thought to herself, <em>I doubt you''ll be able to keep on smiling if you knew Murong Shi has been meeting with me every night.</em>


    Murong Shi still held onto her hand tightly, so Xu Chuanchuan used her fingernails to scratch Murong Shi''s palm gently.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi took the hint and interjected, "Aunt Lian, she doesn''t feel well right now. Is the iced green bean soup ready yet?"


    At this time, Aunt Lian finally noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s slightly paleplexion. Then, she retracted her smile and earnestly said, "It''s done, it''s done. You two wash your hands first. I''ll get it ready for you in the meantime."


    Aunt Lian''s green bean soup was thick and soft. It was also sweet but not greasy. After taking a mouthful, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her body recovering its vitality.


    Aunt Lian looked at Xu Chuanchuan kindly and said, "Eat up. I made a lot."


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled at Aunt Lian''s offer. Then, she said, "The watermelon and lychee you had Murong bring mest time were delicious. It''s just that there were too many, so I felt quite embarrassed receiving them."


    "Actually, those were given to me by my rtives. They were freshly picked, so I wanted to let you try some as well."


    "Thank you, Aunt Lian."


    Frowning, Aunt Lian said, "Everything about you is good. The only w you have is that you''re too polite to others."


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled foolishly but remained silent.


    "Is the guest here?" At this time, a soothing voice interjected the conversation, apanied by the sound of unhurried footsteps.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked toward the source of the voice, she saw a beautiful woman walking out of the nearby study. Although the woman was dressed inly, the in clothing did not hide any of her elegance. Meanwhile, judging by the woman''s temperament and familiar facial features, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t need to guess to know that this person was Murong Mingshu.


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly put down the bowl and spoon in her hands. Then, she greeted, "Hello Auntie, my name is Xu Chuanchuan."


    "Sit, sit," Murong Mingshu said with a gentle smile. Then, after scrutinizing Xu Chuanchuan for a moment, she said, "Chuanchuan? What a cute name. You look very likable as well. No need to be so cautious. It''s rare for Little Shi to make a friend, so make sure toe over and visit often."


    Although Murong Shi had told her that Murong Mingshu was an easygoing person on their way here, Xu Chuanchuan did not expect the person in question to be so friendly.


    When Aunt Lian exined to Murong Mingshu that Xu Chuanchuan was the kind person who had previously helped her, Murong Mingshu''s eyes glowed in pleasant surprise. Then, she said, "Stay for dinner tonight. Aunt Lian and I will cook something delicious for you."


    Xu Chuanchuan was greatly surprised by this offer. Then, just as she was about to refuse politely, Murong Shi suddenly held her hand under the table and interjected, "Aunt Lian, she likes mtang."


    "Okay, I''ll go out and buy the ingredients right away!" Aunt Lian replied.


    "I''ll go with you," Murong Mingshu said. "You two take your time eating."

 Chapter 56: Pt.2

    Chapter 56: Pt.2


    After the two elders left, only Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi remained in the spacious house. Looking at her right hand that a certain someone was holding, Xu Chuanchuan reminded, "How am I supposed to eat like this?"


    In response, Murong Shi unhurriedly turned toward Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I''ll feed you."


    After putting on a token struggle, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No need. I''ll do it myself."


    Naturally, Murong Shi turned a deaf ear to Xu Chuanchuan''s words and scooped up a spoonful of green bean soup. Then, she deliberately rested the spoon on Xu Chuanchuan''s lower lip and said, "This is the first time in my life that I''m feeding someone."


    Xu Chuanchuan pursed her lips for a moment before gradually opening them and enveloping the spoon with her mouth. Then, she suddenly realized something as she asked, "Isn''t this your spoon?"


    After feeding Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi casually ate a spoonful as well. Then, in a lighthearted tone, she said, "We''ve even kissed already. What''s the point of minding such small matters?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless. Then, she silently withdrew her hand and began sullenly eating her green bean soup.


    Murong Shi was full after finishing only half of her bowl. However, Xu Chuanchuan was reluctant to let the soup go to waste, so she finished Murong Shi''s remaining half after downing her own bowl. After the light meal, Xu Chuanchuan also felt her body''s difort dissipating, and she couldn''t help but smile in satisfaction.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was wiping her mouth, Murong Shi stared at her and asked, "Are you still dizzy?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head.


    "Is your chest still stuffy?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head again.


    Then, Murong Shi suddenly leaned closer by several centimeters and quietly asked, "Can I kiss you now, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan gaped in shock, the napkin in her hand falling to the ground. Then, she eximed, "Why are you still thinking about this?!"


    Murong Shi softly chuckled and said, "I will never give up until I achieve my goals."


    "..."


    Without waiting for an answer, Murong Shi held Xu Chuanchuan''s face with one hand and Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with her other hand. Then, she pressed her green bean vored lips against the other party''s.


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently closed her eyes. Then, when she sensed the intrusion of Murong Shi''s soft tongue, she tried responding in kind.


    Murong Shi was stunned by this development. Immediately, she moved a hand to the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s neck to further deepen their kiss.


    At this time, a slight movement came from the front door.


    Bot Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan noticed the movement. Startled, Xu Chuanchuan abruptly pushed Murong Shi away.


    At the same time, someone pushed open the front door and entered the house, followed by Aunt Lian''s mumbling, "I can''t believe I forgot to bring the cart when I''m going to buy so many ingredients. What are you two doing?"


    In her panic, Xu Chuanchuan had identally bumped into a bowl. Fortunately, a carpet covered the floor, so the porcin bowl and spoon remained intact. The only problem was that the residue soup had spilled onto the table and carpet. While Murong Shi was picking up the bowl and spoon, Xu Chuanchuan wiped the table in a panic, her face as red as a tomato.


    Then, Murong Shi calmly replied to Aunt Lian, "It''s nothing. We just dropped a bowl."


    Aunt Lian didn''t doubt Murong Shi''s answer. Instead, after grabbing her shopping cart, she promptly left the house once more.


    Then, the two people at the dining table exchanged looks with each other.


    There was no easy way to remove the stain on the carpet, so Murong Shi had no choice but to wait for Aunt Lian to return to clean it. Then, after she and Xu Chuanchuan washed their respective bowls and dried their hands, she asked, "Do you want to go to my room?"


    "W-We''re still doing it?"


    Murong Shi was slightly confused as she asked, "Do what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly lowered her head in shame.


    Seeing the blush on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi chuckled and said, "You still want to continue where we left off? Sure. But for precaution''s sake, we should go to my room first."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt incredibly embarrassed by her thoughts. Stammering, she said, "N-Nevermind... I-I didn''t mean that..."


    "Where are you running off to? I''m just thinking of showing you my room."


    When Murong Shi arrived in front of her room on the second floor with Xu Chuanchuan in tow, she suddenly paused for a moment. Then, she turned around and said, "Wait outside for a second."


    What''s with the mystery? Xu Chuanchuan wondered.


    Without exining, Murong Shi disappeared into her room. Then, after a minute had gone by, she opened the door and said, "Alright, pleasee in."


    "What were you hiding just now?" Xu Chuanchuan asked jokingly.


    In response, Murong Shi pulled Xu Chuanchuan into the room and closed the door behind her. Then, she said meaningfully, "I was preparing my house for my beloved woman."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face turned even hotter when she heard these words.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi casually scanned the pillow on her bed. The pillow initially hid bedtime reading material under it. Now, though, she had locked said material inside a drawer.


    Speaking of reading materials, Murong Shi suddenly recalled the phone call she had received from a courier around a month ago.


    The courier had called to notify her of a delivery, and the parcel was delivered to the district Linda lived in. When Murong Shi heard the courier calling her "Passerby Shi," Murong Shi instantly knew Xu Chuanchuan sent the package.[1]


    At the time, Murong Shi had only recently had her courting attempt rejected by Xu Chuanchuan, so she had been trying to draw a clear line between the two of them. Hence, she didn''t hold much interest in the delivery. After the call with the courier ended, she casually brought the matter up with Linda and stopped caring about it.


    Now, Murong Shi had no idea what had happened to the parcel. Linda''s father was currently severely ill. The woman herself was probably too busy to care about anything else, so Murong Shi didn''t find it appropriate to disturb her about the parcel.


    Xu Chuanchuan only left the Murong household after having dinner. After personally escorting Xu Chuanchuan to the door, Murong Shi whispered into her ear, "You don''t need to leave. My house has a guest room. You can go to thepany with me tomorrow."


    Xu Chuanchuan had already mooched two meals off of Murong Shi, so she tactfully declined Murong Shi''s offer by saying, "I don''t have any spare clothes to change into."


    Only then did Murong Shi give up.


    After Xu Chuanchuan left, Murong Shi brought out her bedtime reading material and casually flipped through it. Then, on a whim, she reached for her phone and logged in to QQ.


    Upon logging in sessfully, Murong Shi immediately saw the message Xu Chuanchuan sent her. The message talked about the physical copy of hertestpleted work and the matter of the parcel.


    Murong Shi swiftly typed away at the virtual keyboard and sent a reply to Xu Chuanchuan.


    On the other side...


    When Xu Chuanchuan returned to the dormitory, Little Yan caught her and asked, "I haven''t seen you all day. Where did you go have fun with my cousin today?"


    Afraid that Little Yan might overthink things, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t reveal that she had visited Murong Shi''s house today. Instead, she only ambiguously said that she went out with Murong Shi today.


    Then, Little Yan revealed a smirk and said, "Your development with my cousin is absurdly fast. The only thing you''ve been doing in your free time nowadays is going on dates with my cousin. So when are you two going toe out of the closet?"


    Shyly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "We aren''t officially together yet."


    "What? You two still aren''t official even after going on so many dates? Do you not like my cousin?"


    "I..." Little Yan''s questions instantly stumped xu Chuanchuan.


    After returning to her room, Xu Chuanchuan started reflecting on herself. Her development with Murong Shi was indeed moving a little fast. She had even "met her inws" today. If it were anyone else, they would''ve long since taken the next step in their rtionship.


    However, the problem was that Xu Chuanchuan still hadn''t agreed to Murong Shi''s approach...


    Through their recent interactions, Xu Chuanchuan found that she was bing more and more attracted to Murong Shi. Although Murong Shi would often tease her to the point where her face turned as red as a tomato, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but admit that she liked to be close to Murong Shi. She also liked the numbing feeling she experienced whenever Murong Shi kissed her.


    Xu Chuanchuan had still been confused before, but now that she finally realized her feelings, why was she still hesitating?


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan already knew the answer to this question. She simply didn''t wish to admit that she had fallen.


    After some thinking, Xu Chuanchuan made up her mind and messaged Ange: "I want to be with her."


    With the tacit understanding between the two, Ange didn''t need to ask to know who Xu Chuanchuan was talking about. Then, she replied: "I knew you couldn''t hold on for much longer. Congrattions."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I thought you were going to say something else to me..."


    Ange: "You already have her in your heart, so what else can I say? [Shrug]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "[Shy] I love you 3"


    Ange: "Do you love her or me? [Light a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "o()o"


    Ange: "Will you be writing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s sote already. Let''s do it on another day."


    Ange: "I knew you would say that. Ever since this Murong fe seduced you, your mind is no longer on writing. Are you nning to seal the pen for the sake of dating?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "*Cough* That won''t happen. I''ll start making ns once things stabilize."


    <em>Tomorrow. I''ll make things clear with Murong Shi tomorrow.</em>


    Ange: "In that case, please appease the howling girls in your group first."


    When Xu Chuanchuan tapped into her reader group, a wall ofints immediately blinded her.


    Lord, it''s been over a month now. When will you start your new book?


    Lord, where have you disappeared to?


    Lord, you updated your Weibo, yet you''re not paying attention to the group. Are you deliberately ignoring our pleas for a new book?


    Lord, you need to tell us if you''re facing writer''s block. I''m dying from anxiety!


    Lord, are you perhaps upied with dating?


    Out of the thousands of readers in the group, one or two people were bound to guess the reason sessfully. Hence, Xu Chuanchuan dared not respond to theseints.


    What should an author do when their reader group was in an uproar? Send red packets.


    If one wasn''t enough, then add a second one.


    The readers of the group quickly forgot about theirints once they started fighting over the red packet. Then, just when Xu Chuanchuan was about to set aside her phone and take a shower, she received a new message on QQ.


    Passerby Shi: "I received the book. I like it a lot, thank you."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but doubt her eyes when she saw the capricious tycoon''s sudden reappearance. Then, she replied: "Hi, long time no see."


    Passerby Shi: "Miss me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: ...


    If she said she missed the other party, it would look too ambiguous. Yet, if she said she didn''t miss the other party, it would look as if she was being cold.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I thought that since you''ve disappeared for such a long time, you must have been busy with work again."


    Passerby Shi: "Mhm. I''ve been quite busy with work."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Thank you for the hard work. The weather''s been hot recently, so be careful not to get a heatstroke~"


    Passerby Shi: "Thank you. You seem to be dodging the question. I asked if you missed me. Why are you afraid of answering it?"


    <em>How persistent</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan: "My thoughts are as such: The rtionship between you and I is only a rtionship between an author and her reader. You''ve donated so much money to me already. If I were to say that I missed you, it would make it seem like I''m trying to tter you. Also, you''ve disappeared for so long that I thought you''d parted ways with web novels... I have so many readers. If I were to miss every one of them, it would be incredibly exhausting."


    Passerby: "Your straightforwardness isn''t cute at all. [Pick nose]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Is it wrong to tell the truth? [Aggrieved]"


    Passerby Shi: "You heartless little thing. And to think I even dreamt of you recently."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You dreamt of me??? [Shock] Did you dream that I sent you a lot of books? [Snicker]"


    Passerby Shi: "No. I dreamt of you confessing to me. You even forced a kiss on me after the confession."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "!!!"


    Passerby Shi: "I''ve been seeing this dream for several nights now. The worst part of it all is that your kissing skills are horrendous."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...!!!"


    TL Notes:


    [1]red packet: The red packet system in Chinese messaging applications works as a means to give mary gifts in the form of virtual ''credits'' to other users of the application. You can give a red packet directly to another person or designate a red packet to an entire group.


    In the case of a group red packet, you can set various im criteria such as the number of imants and the amount imed by each imant (can be fixed or randomized).

 Chapter 57: Pt.1

    Chapter 57: Pt.1


    Many couples were seated at the restaurant''s window seats, creating an enviable scene for those around them. Xu Chuanchuan also sat at a window seat, though she was currently by herself. And although the restaurant''s environment wasfortable, every second she spent here felt like torture.


    There was a small partition between each table. So long as one didn''t speak too loudly, one could hardly be heard by the people seated at the neighboring tables. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan''s surroundings were so quiet that she had the illusion of being isted.


    There was a strong fragrance of food in the air. Yet, even though there were tempting coca-c chicken wings and stir-fried shrimps set out on the table in front of her, Xu Chuanchuan did not take a single bite.


    Murong Shi had gone to the restroom. This had given Xu Chuanchuan ample time to prepare what she wanted to say next. While inhaling and exhaling deeply several times, Xu Chuanchuan repeatedly muttered to herself, "Don''t panic. Say it properly."


    "What are you mumbling to yourself?"


    At this time, a voice abruptly came from above her head, interrupting Xu Chuanchuan''s subconscious muttering.


    Xu Chuanchuan tensed her back and looked up. Then, pretending to be calm, she said, "I...I didn''t say anything. That... The food is here."


    Murong Shi did not probe further into the matter. Instead, after taking a seat opposite Xu Chuanchuan, she said, "Let''s eat, then.''


    The little courage Xu Chuanchuan managed to gather had dissipated instantly, and she couldn''t help but feel vexed with herself. However, she also dared not make her thoughts too obvious, so she forced a smile onto her face and picked up her chopsticks.


    "This ce feels nice," Xu Chuanchuan said, bringing up a random topic to suppress the anxiety in her heart.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi took a bite of shrimp. Then, after finding its taste to be delectable, she picked up another shrimp, moved it up to Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth, and said, "We cane here more often if you like this ce."


    Xu Chuanchuan absent-mindedly ate the offered shrimp. Then, after chewing superficially, she swallowed the shrimp without even tasting it.


    Murong Shi couldn''t help but smile at this sight. Then, she said, "You didn''t refuse when I tried to feed you today. It seems you''ve gotten used to these things already."


    It took some time for Xu Chuanchuan to react to Murong Shi''s words. When she realized what Murong Shi meant, she immediately grew embarrassed and anxiously said, "Be more reserved when we''re eating out."


    "What are you afraid of? Nobody else is looking at you."


    "..."


    "You seem to be behaving strangely today. Are you feeling any diforts?" Murong Shi asked as she scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    A brief gleam appeared in Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes as she said, "No, I''m just too hungry."


    To avoid exposing her thoughts to Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed a chicken wing, lowered her head, and started gnawing on it. Simultaneously, she thought to herself, Let''s wait until after the meal. There are too many people around us.


    After giving herself a suitable excuse, Xu Chuanchuan was finally able to rx and enjoy her dinner.


    The restaurant''s air conditioning was set a little too low, so Xu Chuanchuan had gotten goosebumps when she sat in the restaurant. Fortunately, after leaving the restaurant, she was finally able to warm up a little.


    Looking at the crowd strolling on the street, Xu Chuanchuan thought of her unfinished "mission." Immediately, an idea came to her mind, and she took the initiative to pat Murong Shi''s arm and said, "I don''t think we''ve ever window-shopped together before."


    "Where do you want to go?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t n this far ahead. She only wanted to find a secluded location andplete her goal. However, such ces were also unsafe at night. After looking around for a moment, she said, "Let''s just...walk around, then."


    "Sure," Murong Shi said, casually holding onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    After being dragged around for a while, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder to herself, <em>How strange. Previously, she''s been nagging at me every day to give her an answer. Today is thest day of the one-week time limit, so why hasn''t she brought up the matter at all?</em>


    <em>Did she forget?</em>


    <em>It seems I''ll have to say it myself.</em>


    After taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan opened her mouth and said, "Mu Wait, isn''t this your car?"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could react, Murong Shi had already opened the door to the passenger''s seat and urged her into the car.


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Weren''t we going window-shopping?"


    "There are too many people here. Let''s move to a new location," Murong Shi said before shutting the door.


    After being interrupted again, Xu Chuanchuan found herself unable to speak up


    The car was moving rtively quickly. After taking a look at the scenery speeding by outside for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan curiously asked, "Where are you taking me?"


    In a mysterious tone, Murong Shi said, "A beautiful location. You''ll find out once we get there."


    At a riverside


    Neon lights decorated the bridge across the river. Cars drove at the topyer while people strolled at the loweryer. The night breeze brought along with it cooling air. Coupled with the passionate singing of street performers, anyone who stayed here for more than a minute would find themselves reluctant to leave.


    This was the perfect dating spot. The only problem it had was therge crowd of people here.


    Xu Chuanchuan rarely went outside, so this was the first time she found out that there was such a scenic spot in the city. Moreover, although this ce was bubbling with activity, it did not look gaudy at all.


    Attracted by the beautiful scenery, Xu Chuanchuan instantly forgot what she wanted to say. While excitedly shaking Murong Shi''s hand, she said, "It''s so beautiful!"


    Under the illumination of the neon lights, Murong Shi''s dark pupils looked as if they contained stars within them. Then, brushing her cold fingers across Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she smiled and said, "Do you like it?"


    "I love it!" Xu Chuanchuan yelled without restraint. "How did you find this ce?"


    "I would take my car out for a drive whenever I argue with my dad before, and I came across this ce by ident."


    The smile on Xu Chuanchuan''s face gradually faded. Then, in a lowered voice, she asked, "Do you have a bad rtionship with your father?"


    Murong Shi tilted her head and pondered for a moment. Then, she answered, "It''s neither good nor bad. It''s mainly because he and I share simr personalities; both of us have bad tempers. After factoring in our differing views on life, our conversations frequently end up into arguments."


    "Then, you..."


    "Let''s not talk about those today."


    Since Murong Shi intended to avoid this topic, Xu Chuanchuan naturally wouldn''t be so insensitive as to continue probing. Then, Xu Chuanchuan put on her smile again and said, "Let''s take pictures!"


    "Mhm." Murong Shi cooperatively took out her phone. "I''ll take it for you."


    There were a lot of people taking pictures on the bridge. There were couples and whole families consisting of both young and old. Passersby would end up in someone''s photo if they were the slightest bit inattentive. However, Murong Shi was very patient and kept trying to find the perfect angle for Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s anxiety grew, and her confidence fell as she looked at Murong Shi''s leisurely expression. Then, she let out a sigh and said, "Let''s pass on the photo.''


    "What''s wrong?"


    Scratching her head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not photogenic anyway. Nothing good woulde from taking a photo."


    Amused by Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Murong Shi said, "Don''t worry. I''ll photoshop it for you."


    Many people were walking past them, and Xu Chuanchuan started growing irritated by the noise. Then, she grabbed Murong Shi''s wrist and said, "It''s so crowded here."


    Murong Shi continued smiling, making it seem as if she had invested all of her patience into this night. She let Xu Chuanchuan lead her by the hand for a while. Then, when they were crossing the middle point of the bridge, Murong Shi suddenly stopped walking.


    "Why did you stop?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, tugging at Murong Shi''s hand.


    However, Murong Shi remained standing. Then, she put some strength into her arm, dragging Xu Chuanchuan toward her and embracing the shorter woman.


    Caught off guard by this sudden action, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously yelped and held her breath. Then, she asked, "What are you doing? A lot of people are watching!"


    Ignoring Xu Chuanchuan''sints, Murong Shi turned Xu Chuanchuan''s body around.


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little surprised when she noticed her vision darkening. In her daze, Murong Shi slowly spoke beside her ear, "It''s okay. It''s dark here, so no one can see us here."


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Chuanchuan finally noticed that Murong Shi had dragged her into a delicate location. Located on their right was a huge steel beam. Coincidentally, this beam was in the way of a nearby streetmp, so the steel beam had cast a long shadow over them.


    With how dark this area was, it was only natural that nobody came here to take pictures.


    Meanwhile, the two of them were currently standing in this shadow while maintaining an ambiguous posture. Murong Shi''s chest was stuck close to Xu Chuanchuan''s back, with nary a gap between them.


    Xu Chuanchuan gave up on struggling, though she still couldn''t help but straighten her back out of anxiety.


    "You..."


    "It''s so beautiful here, and we just arrived. Are you willing to leave so soon?" Murong Shi interrupted in a wistful tone.


    Of course Xu Chuanchuan felt reluctant to leave so soon. However, she still had something important to say to Murong Shi, and she thought that this public ce wasn''t suitable for those words. Instead, she wanted to go somece where only the two of them were present.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t sure if she was being oversensitive, but she kept getting the feeling that Murong Shi''s lips were repeatedly making contact with her cheeks. Growing flustered, Xu Chuanchuan gently shook her head left and right.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi started lightly sniffing Xu Chuanchuan like a puppy, her warm breath hitting Xu Chuanchuan''s neck. Xu Chuanchuan stifled her breathing. Then, she struggled a little whileining, "You''re making me itchy."


    "Shh Don''t move."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan stopped moving immediately.


    Murong Shi freed up a hand and gently slid her cold fingertips across Xu Chuanchuan''s cheek. Then, she said, "You''re wearing makeup today."


    "I didn''t sleep wellst night, so I used that cushion foundation you gave mest time," Xu Chuanchuan said, her face heating up.


    "Is it useful?"


    "Mhm."


    Murong Shi let out a softugh. Then, in a bewitching voice, she asked, "Did you have trouble sleepingst night because you missed me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was genuinely grateful that they were standing in such a dark and hidden location. Otherwise, Murong Shi would''ve had a full view of her face that was as bright as a tomato. Then, without caring whether Murong Shi could see her actions, Xu Chuanchuan nodded.


    On one side, there was the calm river. On the other side, there was a lively flow of people. When Xu Chuanchuan recalled that the person stuck to her back was none other than Murong Shi, she couldn''t help but be at a loss on what to do. Even so, she didn''t feel afraid at all.


    <em>It''s now or never!</em>

 Chapter 57: Pt.2

    Chapter 57: Pt.2


    <em>It''s now or never!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan put her hands on Murong Shi''s hands that were resting on her waist and took a moment to gather her thoughts. Just as she was about to put some distance between herself and Murong Shi...


    Murong Shi suddenly pulled Xu Chuanchuan even closer to herself. Then, in an affectionate tone, she slowly said, "Xu Chuanchuan, be my girlfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly forgot what she was going to do next. Simultaneously, an untimely voice appeared in her mind, <em>Shouldn''t I be the one to say these words?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan fell into a daze after Murong Shi stole the words out of her mouth. After a long while, she snapped out of her daze, removed Murong Shi''s hands from her waist, and turned around.


    After adapting to the darkness, Xu Chuanchuan could vaguely see the contours of Murong Shi''s face. Those slender and dark eyes exuded a strange light, and the fiery passion they radiated deterred Xu Chuanchuan from looking directly at them.


    Located behind Murong Shi was the city''s breathtaking night scene. Yet, Xu Chuanchuan found that the person standing before her was even more breathtaking.


    For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan found herself bewitched by the beautiful face in front of her.


    While Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t sure whether she had bent or not, what she did know was that she liked Murong Shi. She eagerly anticipated the days where she could rightfully be together with this person.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi couldn''t help but grow anxious when she heard no reply from Xu Chuanchuan. With a hint of severity in her tone, she asked, "Did you turn dumb? Or are you unwilling?"


    "No" Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly refuted. Then, grabbing onto Murong Shi''s wrists in a panic, she said, "I was going to tell you this tonight."


    "So, your answer is?"


    "I agree."


    They were unable to see each other''s expression clearly. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan still managed to hear a clear sigh of relief. Subsequently, she felt Murong Shi pulling her into a tight embrace.


    "There''s no going back."


    "Mhm..."


    After removing all of her disguises and defenses, Xu Chuanchuan reached out and returned Murong Shi''s hug.


    Although their surroundings were noisy, Xu Chuanchuan could still hear the furious pounding of a heartbeat. Whether this heartbeat was hers or Murong Shi''s, nobody knew.


    This was the first time they had embraced each other so intimately, and Xu Chuanchuan found the experience to be beyond words. Her body felt a little warm, her heart was a little flustered, and her spirit felt a little satisfied. However, she couldn''t help but feel that something was missing.


    It wasn''t until Murong Shi had released her and urately sealed her lips in the dark that Xu Chuanchuan felt the hole in her heart being filled.


    During this period, a few people had passed by their area. However, the two paid no attention to these people as they firmly locked each other in this concealed, shadowy area while feeling each other''s heartbeats. As they repeatedly took the breath out of each other''s mouth, their breathing gradually grew heavier.


    They kissed for a long, long time.


    As a romance author, Xu Chuanchuan had written plenty of impressive confession scenes for her protagonists. These scenes had stimted many people and caused them to flood her with donations. Yet, even though she had moved the hearts of many people, her works had rarely ever managed to move her own heart. This was because she had once been a straight woman. She found it difficult to put herself in her characters'' shoes.


    Tonight, however, Xu Chuanchuan found her heart being moved.


    Whenever Xu Chuanchuan recalled the scene that night, she would find herself being filled with indescribably romantic feelings.


    After Ange was done listening to Xu Chuanchuan retelling her tale, she snorted and said: "Confessing in a dark ce? Can you be any funnier?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: ".........You deserve to be single."


    After officially getting together, no significant changes hade to the interactions between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi. This was because thepany''s business was booming after its reformation, so Murong Shi ended up bing busier and busier by the day.


    The only change that urred was that Murong Shi had be even more fearless than before. She would often call Xu Chuanchuan during work hours and have thetter bring her a cup of coffee. And once Xu Chuanchuan entered her office and closed the doors


    One day, Zhou Gong, one of Xu Chuanchuan''s colleagues at the Engineering Department asked, "Little Xu, have you been secretly eating snacks recently?"


    "No?" Xu Chuanchuan replied in confusion.


    "We keep seeing you leaving for the pantry and returning with swollen lips recently. We thought you were secretly eating some spicy snacks," Zhou Gong said.


    Thepany forbade employees from eating in the office.


    While everyone startedughing because of Zhou Gong''s words, Xu Chuanchuan dared not follow up to those words. She also couldn''t help but wish she could dig a hole and hide herself in it right now.


    At another time, inside the spacious general manager''s office, Murong Shi boldly grabbed onto Xu Chuanchuan''s breasts right in front of Little Yan''s face and solemnly said, "Have you grown some meat recently? Why do they feel bigger?"


    No matter how serious of an expression Murong Shi made, Xu Chuanchuan''s face still became as red as a tomato.


    As for Little Yan, who had just reached adulthood recently, she covered her face in embarrassment and protested, "You two are perverts!"


    After saying so, Little Yan ran out of the office, though not forgetting to close the door on her way out.


    After that incident, Xu Chuanchuan would turn a deaf ear to every excuse Murong Shi used to get her to go to her office.


    Some timeter, Little Yan was finally unable to hold back her curiosity and asked, "Chuanchuan, have you done <em>that </em>with my cousin already?"


    With how innocent Little Yan was, Xu Chuanchuan assumed the girl''s question would be just as innocent. So, without overthinking the question, Xu Chuanchuan truthfully answered, "Yes."


    Little Yan immediately revealed a horrified look. With widened eyes, she said, "Heavens! Aren''t you two progressing a little too quickly?!"


    It was indeed a little fast for them to officialize their rtionship after only going on dates for a week. Putting on an awkward smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Since we''ve already confirmed our feelings for each other, there''s no need to drag things out. Holding it in won''t do any good to anybody. It''s best to let such matters take ce naturally."


    Little Yan''s expression underwent several rapid changes, her mouth opening and closing repeatedly as she hesitated to speak.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan rubbed the girl''s head and said, "Make sure to keep it a secret."


    Then, unable to hold back her curiosity any longer, Little Yan held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and asked, "I only have one question. Which one of you is on top?"


    "On top?" Xu Chuanchuan blinked in confusion.


    "Inyman terms Who''s in the dominant position? Is it my cousin, or you? It shouldn''t be you, right? You don''t look like you understand these things. My cousin, on the other hand, is probably an old scoundrel. But my cousin is quite the tsundere, and tsunderes are mostly submissives. Damn, just thinking about it is oddly satisfying."


    The more Little Yan spoke, the faster and more excited she became. In the end, it became impossible to tell whether she was blushing from embarrassment or excitement.


    Meanwhile, as a yuri author, Xu Chuanchuan would be brain dead if she still couldn''t understand what Little Yan was talking about.


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan shook off Little Yan''s hands. Then, with a blush on her face, she stammered, "I was only talking about how we are officially dating now! What n-n-n-nonsense are you thinking about?!"


    "Only dating?" Little Yan asked, stunned.


    "Of course!" Xu Chuanchuan said loudly.


    "Is that so" Little Yan muttered in disappointment.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan secretly told Murong Shi about this matter.


    After listening to Xu Chuanchuan''s tale, Murong Shi couldn''t help butment, "As expected of a veteran fujoshi. Little Yan knows quite a lot."


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless.


    After the time Little Yan nearly exposed her identity as a novel author, this was the second time Little Yan''s knowledge had shocked Xu Chuanchuan.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was immersed in her thoughts, Murong Shi furrowed her brows and said, "Do you think I''m an old scoundrel?"


    They had just gotten together, and their rtionship still wasn''t stabilized, so Xu Chuanchuan dared not speak truthfully. After sending Murong Shi a re, she vaguely said, "Isn''t it because you touched my breasts right in front of her facest time?"


    Murong Shi circled the tip of her tongue between her lips and teeth. Then, she grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and mischievously said, "I''ll give you a chance to touch me back."


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan nced at the two ample mounds in front of her and subconsciously gulped. If she were to be honest, she was a little tempted


    However, she was different from a certain someone!


    Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan felt that once she sumbed to the temptation, based on Murong Shi''s personality, the woman would probably do even worse things to her. It definitely wouldn''t be a worthwhile trade.


    "I''m not touching."


    Murong Shi simply took the rejection as Xu Chuanchuan being shy. Then, when she flipped Xu Chuanchuan''s hands around and saw the calluses on Xu Chuanchuan''s right wrist, she casually asked, "Do you often yputer games?"


    "No, I never yed games."


    "What hobbies do you have, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan only had one hobby, and that was writing novels. However, there was no way she could reveal this matter.


    "Does eating count?"


    "...Aside from this, don''t you have any other pursuits?"


    After racking her mind for some time, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I like making money."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "You consider earning that pitiful monthly sry as making money?"


    <em>I can''t say it, I can''t say it.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan awkwardlyughed and quickly shifted the topic. "Actually We''ve only spent a short time with each other, so I don''t really know much about you."


    After pondering in silence for a moment, Murong Shi said, "If you want to get to know a person quickly, there''s one easy way to do so."


    "What is it?"


    Then, Murong Shi took a long look at Xu Chuanchuan before saying, "Cohabitation."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched. "Let''s pass on this for now. I-It''s still a little too soon."


    Murong Shi''s lips curled into a smile. Then, she yfully massaged Xu Chuanchuan''s palms and asked, "How long do you think we should interact before we move in together?"


    "T-This I-I really think it shouldn''t be rushed"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even need to think to know what cohabitation meant. However, she still wasn''t mentally prepared to take that step yet. When she thought about doing <em>that </em>with Murong Shi, she felt like she would go crazy. She would rather prefer to take things one step at a time with her rtionship.


    Murong Shi naturally wouldn''t force Xu Chuanchuan into living together. Though, a hint of regret could be heard when she said, "It''s gettingte. You should go up now. Goodnight."


    "Goodnight," Xu Chuanchuan said. However, when she ced her hand on the car lock, she suddenly felt that something was amiss.


    <em>She''s letting me go, just like that?</em>


    Ever since they officialized their rtionship, their dinner dates would always end with Murong Shi giving her a long kiss before reluctantly letting her go. Yet, no such thing had happened tonight.


    <em>Did she get mad because I didn''t answer her question about living together? But she doesn''t look like she''s angry.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan retracted her hand.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze briefly scanned through Murong Shi''s lips. Then, she carefully asked, "Do you think my kissing skills are terrible?"


    Murong Shi was momentarily stunned. Then, she stifled augh before saying, "Have I ever said you were terrible at kissing?"


    <em>You never said it before, but a certain tycoon who thinks she can mess with people just because she donated some money did say so</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan agonized for a while before asking, "So, is it not bad?"


    Then, putting on a stern look, Murong Shi said, "You almost bit my tonguest night."


    "I didn''t do it on purpose."


    Murong Shi nonchntly snorted.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her fragile self-esteem triggered by thisughter. Then, she straightened her back and said, "Can you turn off the lights?"


    Murong Shi continued looking at Xu Chuanchuan with a yful smile. "Why?"


    "..."


    After realizing that a certain someone was confidently waiting for her to make a fool of herself, Xu Chuanchuan quickly dismissed her ns and turned around to leave. However, before she could open the car door, a powerful force suddenly pulled her back.


    The interior of the car darkened. Before Xu Chuanchuan could even scream, a familiar kiss descended upon her.

 Chapter 58: Pt.1

    Chapter 58: Pt.1


    Little Yan had gotten epted into Nanjing University with excellent results. On the day she announced the good news, Murong Shi had deliberately given her a day off.


    "Our whole family is going out to celebrate. Sorry, but I can''t join you for dinner tonight, "Murong Shi said to Xu Chuanchuan.


    "It''s fine. Go ahead. This is a happy asion, so you should properly celebrate it," Xu Chuanchuan said with a smile.


    "I''ll call you tonight."


    "Mhm."


    Then, Murong Shi suddenly gave Xu Chuanchuan a deep kiss while thetter was unprepared, leaving a bright red lipstick mark on her lips.


    Xu Chuanchuan wiped off the lipstick with a look of disgust on her face. Yet, even though she expressed dislike toward Murong Shi''s actions, her heart was fluttering in joy.


    This was probably the so-called honeymoon period, where one couldn''t help but wish they could stick to their beloved at every minute and second. Xu Chuanchuan never thought she would one day go through such a phase as well.


    As soon as Murong Shi left, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her mood falling. Then, she dragged her sluggish body back to the dormitory and ordered a food delivery.


    The sky outside still wasn''t dark by the time Xu Chuanchuan finished her dinner. Then, with nothing better to do, she turned on herputer.


    It had been a long time since Xu Chuanchuan had touched herputer, and ayer of dust had already umted on her monitor and keyboard. While wiping off the dust with a tissue paper, Xu Chuanchuan inwardlymented, <em>Sure enough, dating takes up a lot of time.</em>


    After booting up her PC and logging into QQ, Xu Chuanchuan received a bombardment of chat notifications. Upon taking a closer look, she found that many of her reader group''s members had tagged her in their messages. Then, Xu Chuanchuan clicked into her reader group with a tentative heart.


    Lord, your Tycoon Shi is already online. Why haven''t you appeared yet?


    We poor people can never understand the world of tycoons.


    Ah~ How enviable. This makes me want to start writing novels as well. I want to experience what it feels like to be pampered by a tycoon.


    After Xu Chuanchuan carefully read through the messages, she found that her readers were talking about the donations Passerby Shi had given to her. So, she hurriedly visited jjwxc''s website and opened up the donation history for her recentlypleted work andtest published work. Then, what she saw dumbfounded her.


    She had received a total of 34 Deep-water Torpedoes yesterday. Every one of these donations was given at around ten o''clockst night. As a result of these donations, system announcements flooded the review section located on the front pages of both novels. It was no wonder why her reader group''s members were in such an uproar.


    <em>Isn''t this tycoon a little too crazy?</em>


    If it were in the past, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve long since sought out a certain someone and thanked them for such a massive donation. However, after thest teasing incident, she was honestly afraid of interacting with Passerby Shi.


    If Passerby Shi had donated to her solely for the sake of supporting her, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve happily epted the donation. The problem was that Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be certain whether Passerby Shi had any ulterior motives for being so generous.


    However, the more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more ludicrous she found her thoughts to be. Neither of them knew each other in the real world. Passerby Shi had never seen her real appearance, either. There was also no way Passerby Shi would like her just because she liked her novels.


    Passerby Shi''s teasing might''ve been a joke, but that type of joke had already exceeded Xu Chuanchuan''s bottom line. She disliked flirting with her readers.


    Moreover, Xu Chuanchuan was currently together with Murong Shi now. Therefore, she felt that she should be even stricter with such matters.


    Not to mention, Xu Chuanchuan could never see through Passerby Shi''s thoughts. In the end, she decided to ept the donations with a calm heart, though she did not take the initiative to strike up a conversation with Passerby Shi this time. Instead, she left a "thank you"ment under every donation announcement. She also sent the other party a super-big red packet.


    After closing off her browser and group chat, Xu Chuanchuan opened up her writing folder and tapped on Ange''s avatar: "Ange~ Let''s write together~"


    Ange: "Oh? You still have writing on your mind? Don''t you need to go on a date today?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "She''s busy with something tonight."


    Ange: "So you onlye to me when she''s too busy for you? You heartless thing."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange: "Let''s go. We''ll meet in the Dark Room."


    Xu Chuanchuan hadn''t written for a long time now, so her hands felt very rusty. Even after working for an hour without rest, she only managed to type out several hundred words. In contrast, Ange had managed to type over 4,000 words in the same period.


    Partway through their writing session, Xu Chuanchuan decided to take a toilet break. When she returned from the bathroom, she heard her phone ringing.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought Murong Shi was calling her, so she joyfully ran for her phone. However, when she picked up the phone and looked at the disy, she saw the word "Mom" being disyed instead.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but grow nervous about receiving a call from her mother sote into the night. Finally, after calming down a little, she answered the call and greeted, "Mom?"


    Going straight into the topic, Mother Xu asked, "Is Xiangxiang staying at your ce?"


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No. Shouldn''t she be at school?"


    "Her school vacation startedst week, and even our neighbor''s daughter has alreadye home. I gave her a call some time ago since she hasn''te home, and she says she''s going to your ce to stay for a few days. I called her again just now, but she didn''t pick up."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped when she heard her mother''s words. Then, she said, "She didn''te to me."


    "What? Where is she now?"


    <em>How would I know? </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself. Then, sheforted her mother, saying, "Don''t panic yet. I''ll give her a call now and ask her about the situation. I''ll call you back afterward."


    After hanging up the call, Xu Chuanchuan promptly dialed Xu Xiangxiang''s number without even thinking why her little sister had lied to their mother.


    However, the busy tone rang for a long time without anyone answering the call. At this time, Xu Chuanchuan gradually grew agitated for fear of Xu Xiangxiang''s safety.


    After calling Xu Xiangxiang three times and failing to reach her little sister, Xu Xiangxiang started panicking. Then, after calming her mind, she recalled that she had exchanged WeChat information with Xu Xiangxiang''s three roommates during Xu Xiangxiang''s birthday celebrationst time. Without any hesitation, she messaged all three girls asking about Xu Xiangxiang''s whereabouts.


    A few minutester, Qingqing replied: "Xiangxiang was the first to leave as soon as our exams ended, so we thought she went home."


    The other two might not be online, so they might not have seen her message. However, when Xu Chuanchuan saw Qingqing''s reply, a chill enveloped her heart, and she suddenly had a bad premonition.


    <em>She couldn''t have gotten into trouble, right?</em>


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more worried she became. Lacking even the patience to type, Xu Chuanchuan sent a voice message asking, "Neither myself nor my mother can reach her through the phone right now. We also don''t know where she went. Did she say anything to you when she left?"


    In response, Qingqing said, "I just thought of something. I think she said she was going to meet with a senior. She is very close to that senior, and that senior has even introduced her to a part-time job before. I have this senior''s WeChat information. Why don''t I forward it to you, and you can ask her about Xiangxiang?"


    "Okay! Please send it to me! Thank you!" Xu Chuanchuan said.


    "You''re wee."


    As it so happened, the aforementioned senior''s WeChat information was also their phone number. Xu Chuanchuan called the number without hesitation.


    The busy tone rang for a long time. Fortunately, the other party eventually picked up, and Xu Chuanchuan heard an unfamiliar woman''s voice asking, "Who is it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t waste time on small talk. Instead, getting straight to the point, she said, "Hello, I am Xu Xiangxiang''s elder sister. May I know if you have been in contact with her recently? She hasn''t returned home even until now, and our family doesn''t know where she went."


    The other party seemingly hesitated for a moment before asking, "Did she not tell you guys?"


    "Tell us what?"


    "She is currently renting an apartment together with me close to our school, and we''re...doing a part-time job together."


    Frowning, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What part-time job? Where are you two now? Can I trouble you to get Xu Xiangxiang to answer the call?"


    "Hold on a second. She''s streaming right now, so she might not have heard her phone ringing. I''ll go take a look."


    "Streaming???" Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously raised her voice.


    The person on the other party got scared by Xu Chuanchuan''s voice and shuddered involuntarily. Then, she stammered, "C-C-Calm down for now. I''ll call her for you."


    The sound of footsteps came through the phone, followed by the sound of a knock. Then, Xu Chuanchuan could vaguely hear a conversation taking ce on the other end of the phone.


    After Xu Chuanchuan patiently waited for several minutes, she heard a timid voice entering her ear, "Sis?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan identified the person on the other end of the phone to be her little sister, she bellowed, "Xu Xiangxiang, what the hell are you doing?!"


    "Nothing I''m just trying to earn some pocket money" Xu Xiangxiang said in an aggrieved tone.


    "Why must you lie to mom? You are even ignoring her calls! She''s frantically trying to reach you!"


    "I didn''t do it on purpose. I had my earphones on just now because I was streaming, so I didn''t hear the phone ringing."


    "You dare to quibble still?" Xu Chuanchuan felt her anger erupting when she heard the word "streaming." Then, she demanded, "Where are you now?"


    ...


    An hourter, Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the address Xu Xiangxiang sent her through WeChat.


    "Sis" Xu Xiangxiang, wearing heavy makeup, came out to greet Xu Chuanchuan in person. Then, she mumbled, "Why did youe over at such ate hour?"


    "I want to strangle you right now," Xu Chuanchuan said in a bitter tone.


    "..." Putting on a ttering smile, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Come in,e in. It''s cold outside."


    There was one other person in the apartment, and this person was none other than the senior Xu Xiangxiang was sharing an apartment with. The senior in question was dressed in an even more exaggerated manner than Xu Xiangxiang. She wore a tight-fitting, low-cut skirt that barely covered her buttocks. Xu Chuanchuan guessed that the other party had been streaming just a moment ago looking at the woman''s attire and makeup.


    After giving the other party a polite nod, Xu Chuanchuan turned toward Xu Xiangxiang and put on a vicious face. Then, she asked, "Which room is yours?"


    Xu Xiangxiang pointed to one of the rooms.


    "Let me see it."


    "Okay..."

 Chapter 58: Pt.2

    Chapter 58: Pt.2


    The room was cramped, and it could just barely fit a bed, a wardrobe, and aputer desk. There was aptop ced on the desk, and the screen currently disyed the interface of a certain broadcasting tform.


    Xu Xiangxiang quickly moved forward to close herptop''s screen. Then, she turned around and smiled, saying, "Isn''t this room nice? I organized it myself."


    Girlish pink wallpaper paired with some decorative lights covered the walls of the room.


    Xu Chuanchuan did not y along with Xu Xiangxiang. Instead, after briefly surveying the room, she returned her gaze to Xu Xiangxiang and said in a cold voice, "Are you not going to exin?"


    Xu Xiangxiang''s smile faded. Then, she reached out, took off the hat on her head, and said, "I know I shouldn''t have lied to mom, but she will grow suspicious if I didn''t lie to her. I didn''t mean to hide it from you, either, but I want to make money. I''m already proficient at live streaming, and I can earn money very quickly. But since you refuse to support me, how would I dare tell you the truth?"


    "I''m disappointed in you, Xu Xiangxiang. Just look at what kind of nonsensical clothing you''re wearing," Xu Chuanchuan said as she pulled apart the cor of Xu Xiangxiang''s shirt.


    "Ahh! What are you doing?!" Xu Xiangxiang screamed, her face turning pale from fright.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan forcefully moved Xu Xiangxiang''s hands away and ignored her little sister''s struggles. Then, she pulled out two thick bundles of napkins from inside Xu Xiangxiang''s bra and gritted her teeth, saying, "You stuffed your two As into Cs! Do you have no shame?!"


    While tightly covering her chest with her hands, Xu Xiangxiang looked at her elder sister with pitiful eyes and said, "You tore open my shirt as soon as you arrived. You''re too much."


    "I''m too much? If you weren''t my little sister, I couldn''t even be bothered with you!"


    "I admit that I was in the wrong. I also called mom just now. What else do you want?!"


    The two sisters shouted at each other without caring about the room''s soundproofing. Then, realizing their mistake, Xu Chuanchuan went to lock the door. Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly picked up the two bundles of paper towels on the floor and shook off the dust stuck to them.


    Xu Chuanchuan just so happened to have caught this scene when she turned around. Sneering, she asked, "Are you nning to reuse them next time?"


    "It took me a long time to make these. They''re not dirty, so why must I throw them away?"


    "You still n on continuing this nonsensical streaming?"


    "I''m not breaking thew. I''m earning money using my abilities, so why can''t I do it?"


    "You call padding your breasts to seduce men a skill to earn money?"


    Xu Xiangxiang blushed. Then, she said, "You can''t say that to me even if you''re my sister! Also, I''m already an adult. I have the right to choose what I do. You have no right to control me!"


    Xu Chuanchuan nearlyughed out of anger. However, just as she was about to refute her little sister''s words, her phone suddenly rang.


    Worried that it might be their mother calling, Xu Chuanchuan suppressed her anger and pulled out her phone, only to find Murong Shi calling her.


    Xu Chuanchuan nced at Xu Xiangxiang with a guilty conscience. Then, she took a few steps back and answered the phone.


    "What are you up to right now?"


    A slightly hoarse and sexy voice prated Xu Chuanchuan''s right eardrum. After calming her rapidly beating heart, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not doing anything. Have you been drinking?"


    "Mhm. I drank a little with my two uncles," Murong Shi leisurely said. Then, changing the topic, she asked, "How can you not be doing anything? Don''t you miss me?"


    There was no way Xu Chuanchuan could bring herself to say "I miss you" in front of her little sister. Not to mention, she currently had more important things to deal with, so she wasn''t really in the mood to flirt with Murong Shi.


    After clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Don''t get drunk."


    Murong Shi let out an inaudible sigh. Then, she said, "You really like to dodge questions. You''re not cute at all."


    "..."


    "But I like it."


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed like the good-for-nothing she was. Then, in a gentle voice, she asked, "Is the party not over yet?"


    "It''s over."


    "Then go home soon."


    "I want to see you."


    <em>Why did she suddenly be so lovey-dovey? This doesn''t match her usual personality at all. Sure enough, this person starts to reveal her true self once she gets drunk.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart warming up when she heard Murong Shi''s words. If not for Xu Xiangxiang''s matter remaining unresolved, she would''ve dashed to meet up with Murong Shi now.


    Amidst Xu Chuanchuan''s hesitation, Murong Shi asked, "Are you in the dorm right now? Are you sleeping soon? I''ll go find you."


    "Don''t!" Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly shouted. "I''m not at the dorm right now."


    "You''re not? Where did you go thiste at night?"


    ording to her past experiences, Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi would be much more difficult to deal with when drunk. Afraid that Murong Shi wouldn''t let the matter rest, Xu Chuanchuan truthfully told Murong Shi her current location and that she was currently together with Xu Xiangxiang.


    Murong Shi didn''t doubt Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she cheerfully said, "That''s great. We were having dinner at a nearby hotel. Send the full address to me. I''ll head over right away."


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan ended the call withplicated emotions. Then, she heard Xu Xiangxiang suddenly asking, "Sis, did you start dating recently?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked. Then, without any shame on her face, she lied, "No."


    "Who called you just now, then?" Xu Xiangxiang asked, pointing at the phone in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    "...Murong."


    "You mean Big Sis Shishi?"


    "Mhm."


    Widening her eyes, Xu Xiangxiang eximed, "Heavens! Have you always spoken so ambiguously with her? I remember you used to be very opinionated toward her. Weren''t you afraid of her? I thought you were talking with your boyfriend just now with the way you spoke and the shy expression you made!"


    <em>I don''t have a boyfriend, but I do have a girlfriend.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not tell her little sister the truth. Although she panicked inwardly, she maintained an angry expression as she said, "Don''t try to change the topic! I''m still not done with your matter!"


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang turned her head aside and harrumphed, saying, "Since you don''t respect my decisions, I don''t want to talk to you."


    "..."


    The two sisters ended up in a cold war.


    Because of the close distance, Murong Shi arrived in less than ten minutes.


    Xu Xiangxiang knew that the new arrival was Murong Shi, so she happily went out to wee the other party. When she saw Murong Shi, she looked like she had seen her savior. While hugging Murong Shi''s arm, Xu Xiangxiang pointed at her elder sister and said, "Big Sis Shishi, my sister is bullying me!"


    Murong Shi carried a faint scent of alcohol on her body, and a red hue could be seen on her white cheeks. Paired with her ck hair and long white dress, she looked indescribably beautiful. Unfortunately, this beauty was ruined by Xu Xiangxiang, who stuck closely to her.


    In response, Murong Shi only revealed a faint smile. However, she did not move her gaze away from Xu Chuanchuan even for a moment. She also forgot to refute Xu Xiangxiang''s wordspletely.


    Then, with her eyes still locked onto Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi asked Xu Xiangxiang, "Why is she bullying you?"


    With someone serving as her backbone, Xu Xiangxiang became emboldened. In a righteous tone, she said, "I want to earn money through live streaming, but she won''t let me. She even called me shameless."


    At the mention of live streaming, Xu Chuanchuan promptly snapped out of her daze. Then, putting on a grim expression, she said, "I wouldn''t have cared if you were doing normal live streaming. The problem is that you''ve padded your chest to such an extent! What exactly are you trying to do?!"


    "I Is there something wrong with me padding my chest?"


    Murong Shi''s head started buzzing as she listened to the two sisters arguing. Finally, after roughly understanding the two sisters'' point of contention, she asked Xu Chuanchuan, "Are you not allowing her to live stream because she padded her chest?"


    The chest-padding matter was only the tipping point. After pausing for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Live streaming isn''t suitable for her. It is also time-consuming. I worry that it will affect her studies."


    "I''m on my semester break right now," Xu Xiangxiang interjected.


    Then, sending her little sister a re, Xu Chuanchuan said, "The most important point is that she can''t resist temptation. I''m afraid she will take the wrong path."


    "I''m not stealing or selling my body, so how am I taking the wrong path?"


    "You dare quibble still? What do you have to say about Jiang Shaohua''s matterst time?"


    At the mention of this matter, Xu Xiangxiang instantly became mute.


    In the end, Murong Shi was the one who resolved the conflict. While persuading Xu Chuanchuan not to be so inflexible, she also had Xu Xiangxiang promise that she wouldn''t do anything shameful on her live streams. Only then did the fires of war between the two sisters gradually subside.


    Before leaving, Xu Chuanchuan tugged on Xu Xiangxiang''s right ear and said, "I''ll be watching your live streams every night. You better not let me catch you doing anything stupid."


    "I know, I know," Xu Xiangxiang said impatiently.


    Only then did Xu Chuanchuan rest easy and leave with Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi did not drive here because she had drunk alcohol. After going to the roadside and hailing a taxi, she dragged Xu Chuanchuan into the car.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at the time, she eximed, "It''s sote already!"


    Probably because she was tired, Murong Shi rested her head on Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulder as if it were a matter of course. Then, she raised a hand and pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s right ear, saying, "Don''t casuallye out at night by yourself in the future."


    "Today''s situation is a little special," Xu Chuanchuan said helplessly. Then, realizing that there was the taxi driver in front of them, she hurriedly tore off Murong Shi''s misbehaving hand.


    However, Murong Shi easily turned the tables and held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist instead. Then, she smiled and said, "It''s unsafe for me to go back sote at night, either, so I''m going with you."


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You''re going back to the dorm with me?"


    "Mhm. Little Yan happens to be away today."


    <em>Little Yan isn''t home, so you can sleep in her room? Is that what you''re trying to say? But why do I see a different intention in your eyes?</em>


    <em>Let''s hope I''m just overthinking things.</em>


    Partway through their trip home, they stopped by a grocery store to buy some toiletries. While waiting at the checkout, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You don''t have a change of clothes."


    "I''ll have Little Yan bring some for me tomorrow morning. As for the pajamas, I''ll wear hers for now."


    This was indeed a solution.


    By the time they arrived at the dormitory, it was already close to eleven o''clock. However, considering that Murong Shi was a little drunk, Xu Chuanchuan wanted to let her wash up first.


    However, Murong Shi said, "I feel a little dizzy, so you go first."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t doubt Murong Shi. She went to the bathroom after grabbing a change of clothes, onlying back out 15 minutester.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shiid on the sofa in exhaustion. And although she wore a rxed expression on her face, her eyes attentively followed Xu Chuanchuan''s every movement.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a little ufortable from the constant staring. Then, while tugging at her pajamas'' cor to prevent it from sticking to her skin, she said in an unnatural tone, "Your turn."


    Murong Shi responded with an "mhm" but remained motionless.


    "Get up."


    "I''m dizzy. I can''t get up."


    Murong Shi didn''t seem like she was pretending, so Xu Chuanchuan went over to help her without hesitation.


    However, the instant the two made physical contact, Murong Shi stood up vigorously and looked down, a hint of perverseness appearing in her eyes when her gaze swept across Xu Chuanchuan''s breasts. Then, she said, "These pajamas look a bit transparent. Did you deliberately wear them to tempt me?"


    Definitely not!!!


    Xu Chuanchuan instinctively pushed Murong Shi away and jumped backward. Then, she warily covered her chest with both hands.


    Murong Shi snickered when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s intense reaction. Then, she reached out, caressed the shorter woman''s chin, and hoarsely said, "The more transparent they are, the more I like them."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."

 Chapter 59: Pt.1

    Chapter 59: Pt.1


    While Murong Shi was in the bathroom, Xu Chuanchuan quickly snuck back to her room and opened her wardrobe.


    She had bought the pajamas she currently wore online. While the fabric was indeed quite thin and see-through, it was veryfortable to wear. She had casually grabbed it before heading to the bathroom, but she swore she wasn''t deliberately trying to seduce Murong Shi!


    After digging through her wardrobe for some time, Xu Chuanchuan finally found pajamas that were more conservative and had thicker fabric. However, while changing into the new set of pajamas, she found that she had worked up a sweat because of that minor incident, and she couldn''t help but feel that she had showered for nothing.


    Murong Shi spent a long time in the bathroom, and Xu Chuanchuan was already half-asleep by the time she heard knocking soundsing from the door.


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately snapped back to reality and hurriedly climbed out of bed. When she opened the door, what entered her sight was a refreshing and sexy Murong Shi.


    "What were you doing locked inside?" Murong Shi asked, a yful smile on her face. Then, when she noticed the change in Xu Chuanchuan''s pajamas, she frowned and asked, "Why did you change them?"


    At the mention of her pajamas, Xu Chuanchuan''s mood started bing chaotic once more, and she subconsciously lowered her gaze in embarrassment.


    Murong Shi snickered at Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. Then, she reached out and hooked Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with her finger, saying, "We''ve even kissed and hugged already, so what''s there to be ashamed of? I was only messing with you before."


    <em>It wasn''t funny at all, alright?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan gently shook her head, shaking off Murong Shi''s finger. While doing so, she saw the nightgown Murong Shi was wearing through the corner of her eyes. Then, she asked, "You''re almost the same height as Little Yan, so why does her nightgown look so small when you wear them?"


    From what Xu Chuanchuan could remember, when Little Yan wore the nightgown Murong Shi currently wore, it covered up to her knees. Yet, when Murong Shi wore it, it barely covered her thighs.


    "Because my breasts are bigger, and my buttocks are plumper. These two parts ended up raising the fabric," Murong Shi said with a hint of pride in her voice.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from secretly moving her gaze upward, carefully scrutinizing Murong Shi''s thin, white legs, followed by her t lower abdomen, her narrow waist that could be encircled by one arm, and the assets she had on her chest.


    Based on the arcs and shape of those assets, Xu Chuanchuan admitted that Murong Shi''s were bigger than hers.


    As for Murong Shi''s hip...


    Meanwhile, when Murong Shi saw the thieving and cautious look on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she couldn''t help butugh and said, "You can openly look if you want to. If you think that this isn''t satisfying enough, I can even take off my clothes and let you look for free."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned bright red. Then, she turned to the side and stared at a ck spot on the door frame, saying, "Do you get thirsty after drinking alcohol? Should I boil some water for you?"


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan felt Murong Shi''s cold fingertips touching her right cheek, and she involuntarily shuddered. Before she could react, Murong Shi had already turned her head forward.


    "Why is your hand so cold? Did you shower with cold water just now?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in surprise.


    Murong Shi''s pupils were dark and bright, yet the expression they portrayed was unclear and carried hints of harsh criticism. Then, Murong Shi said, "Not only did you change the topic while on the phone, but you''re even doing so right in front of me."


    Xu Chuanchuan was so embarrassed that she stammered, "I''m just worried about you. You drank so much alcohol, I..."


    "I didn''t drink a lot, just a little." Murong Shi switched to holding Xu Chuanchuan''s head with both hands. Then, while gradually moving her face closer to Xu Chuanchuan''s she smiled and asked, "Are you nervous because you''re afraid I''ll mess around after getting too drunk?"


    "I never thought that"


    "Then, are you afraid?"


    Widening her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan stammered, "W-W-What do you meauu"


    Without waiting for Xu Chuanchuan to finish, Murong Shi eagerly nted a kiss on the shorter woman''s lips.


    Xu Chuanchuan was caughtpletely off guard, her body stumbling backward and her back getting pinned onto the door.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was still in shock, Murong Shi swiftly snuck her tongue into Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth and inserted her hands between the door and Xu Chuanchuan''s back. Then, while simultaneously pulling Xu Chuanchuan closer toward her, Murong Shi opportunistically moved her hands down to Xu Chuanchuan''s buttocks.


    Just when Xu Chuanchuan had gotten herself into the mood, Murong Shi''s opportunistic action caused her body to tremble. However, before Xu Chuanchuan could put up any resistance, Murong Shi''s fingers suddenly touched a certain part of her body, stimting her and causing her body to limply slide down against the door.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi quickly supported Xu Chuanchuan, her tongue withdrawing from the other party''s mouth momentarily. Then, while breathing heavily, she asked, "You''ve gone soft already? Do you want to head to the bed?"


    "I Ah What are you doing?!" Xu Chuanchuan yelled, herplexionpletely changing when she felt her body being lifted off the ground.


    Ignoring Xu Chuanchuan''s exmation, Murong Shi effortlessly picked up Xu Chuanchuan and threw her onto the bed like a sack of potatoes.


    Fortunately, the bed was soft, and Xu Chuanchuan didn''t feel any pain. Even so, she was still frightened by this situation.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi did not give Xu Chuanchuan any chance to recover as she pressed down her slender body against Xu Chuanchuan''s.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan found her breath devoured once more...


    In the blink of an eye, her bed was messed up, her hair was messed up, and even her clothes were messed up. Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi had taken control of all of her senses. Her mind had be incapable of thinking, and she didn''t even know where she was right now. The only thing she knew was to passively respond to Murong Shi''s kiss.


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan felt the cold air from the air conditioner blowing past her soft belly, and she couldn''t help but shiver at the cold. Then, when she realized that Murong Shi had lifted her top, her eyes snapped open in fright, and she instinctively pushed her hands against the person on top of her.


    <em>No, this is too soon! I still haven''t mentally prepared myself! </em>Xu Chuanchuan panicked.


    However, Murong Shi was too deeply immersed in the act. Her eyes were tightly shut, and desire filled her long, trembling eyshes. It looked like she could no longer hold back herself.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan even bit Murong Shi out of desperation, yet Murong Shi remained indifferent to her resistance.


    Just when Xu Chuanchuan thought she might lose her innocence tonight, the ringing of a phone saved her as Murong Shi paused her actions momentarily. Meanwhile, this brief moment was more than enough for Xu Chuanchuan to push Murong Shi away.


    The two panted as their kiss finally ended. Xu Chuanchuan''splexion interval between red and white. Then, pointing at the ringing phone on the bedside table, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It might be my mother."


    Murong Shi''s eyes held hints of dissatisfaction at having her fun being interrupted. However, she eventually chose to release Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan swiftly fled from Murong Shi and grabbed her phone. Then, she realized that it wasn''t her mother calling, but Xu Xiangxiang instead.


    However, regardless of who was calling her, Xu Chuanchuan was grateful for the save nheless.


    Xu Chuanchuan epted the call with a quick tap and pretended not to see the gloom on Murong Shi''s face. Even so, she wasn''t able to ignore Murong Si''s scorching gaze, so she turned her back toward Murong Shi and said, "Hello?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan heard Xu Xiangxiang''s pleading voice, "Sis, can you not tell mom and dad about the live streaming thing for now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan did not reply immediately. Instead, she did her best to steady her breathing first. Then, she cleared her throat and said, "I won''t tell them so long as you behave."


    "Okay! I promise I''ll behave!"


    "By the way, I forgot to ask you, but how did you do on your tests this time?"


    "My tests? Our semester break just started recently. There''s no way the results would be out so soon."


    "When will they be released, then? You won''t" Xu Chuanchuan suddenly gasped.


    "What did you say?" Xu Xiangxiang asked.


    Xu Chuanchuan had nearly thrown her phone out of fright when Murong Shi suddenly hugged her from behind.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart started beating rapidly again when she felt a warm breath hitting her left cheek and neck. She also sensed a pair of thin lips gently brushing against her sensitive ear.


    Xu Chuanchuan gulped out of anxiety. Then, after brushing off Xu Xiangxiang with an "It''s nothing, I''ll call you again when I have time," Xu Chuanchuan promptly ended the call.


    "Are you done?" Murong Shi asked politely by Xu Chuanchuan''s left ear. Unfortunately, her actions were anything but polite.


    While doing her best to stop the probing hands that were trying to get under her clothes, Xu Chuanchuan urgently said, "Murong, Murong, wait a moment."


    "What''s the matter?" Murong Shi finally stopped her naughty hands. Even so, she still gently pecked Xu Chuanchuan''s cheek one time after another.


    Xu Chuanchuan suppressed her throbbing heart. Then, she said with difficulty, "I don''t want to do <em>that </em>yet."


    "Do what? I just want to kiss you."


    <em>What are your hands doing, then?!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan took a deep breath and struggled out of Murong Shi''s embrace. Then, she turned around, faced Murong Shi, and said, "It''ste, and I''m exhausted. Don''t we have to go to work tomorrow? Let''s rest early."


    Murong Shi revealed a conflicted expression as she quietly observed Xu Chuanchuan. Then, just when Xu Chuanchuan was starting to feel a little guilty, Murong Shi nonchntly smiled and said, "It is indeed quitete. Let''s sleep, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief. Then, she smiled and said, "Goodnight." However, before Xu Chuanchuan''s smile fully expanded, it suddenly froze. "You... What are you..."


    At this time, Murong Shi had gone to the other side of the bed and calmly said, "As you said, I''m sleeping."


    Gaping in shock, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You''re going to sleep here?"


    "Yup."


    <em>Don''t you sound a little too righteous?</em>


    <em>Also, we just dodged the bullet. Isn''t an ident bound to happen if we share a bed?</em>


    Fear still lingered in Xu Chuanchuan''s heart. After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly said, "If you''re not used to sleeping in a small bed, I can go sleep in Little Yan''s room."


    In response, Murong Shi stared deeply at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "But I want to sleep with you. Otherwise, why would Ie back with you?"


    <em>Sleep with me???</em> Xu Chuanchuan suddenly realized that her thoughts were too simple. If she had known that Murong Shi had such intentions in mind, she would''ve sent Murong Shi home even if it killed her.


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan standing by the bed with a bewildered look, Murong Shi walked back to her and held her hands. Then, with a serious face, Murong Shi said, "Don''t worry. I promise I''ll only sleep and not mess around."


    <em>What kind of guarantee can you make?</em> Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi skeptically.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan thought of an idea and pulled out a green crocodile bolster from her wardrobe. Then, she ced therge bolster in the middle of the bed and said with a smile, "I''ve left you more than half of the bed. Aren''t I generous?"


    Murong Shi''s expression sank.


    Afraid that Murong Shi would go crazy, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly exined, "I have a terrible sleeping habit. I''m afraid I''ll wake you up."


    Then, Murong Shi put on a neutral smile and said, "What a coincidence. I specialize in treating bad sleeping habits."


    Xu Chuanchuan choked, an aggrieved expression appearing on her face.


    Finally, Murong Shi sighed and gave up. Then, sheid on the bed and spoke in a tolerating and helpless tone, "Let''s sleep."


    Xu Chuanchuan obedientlyid down on the other side. Then, she pushed the pillow on her side to Murong Shi.


    "What about you?"


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s fine. My spine isn''t in good condition. It''ll be morefortable for me if I don''t use a pillow."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t seem to be lying, so Murong Shi abandoned her thoughts of going next door to grab Little Yan''s pillow. Then, she dragged the crocodile bolster to herself as well and frowned, saying, "What an ugly thing. I''ll probably wet myself if I wake up to this thing."


    Xu Chuanchuan pouted in dissatisfaction when she heard Murong Shi''s words. Then, she said, "How is it ugly? It''s so cute. Look at its dark, beady eyes and its little paws. Also, this thing is a present Ange gave me."


    "What did you say? An-what?"

 Chapter 59: Pt.2

    Chapter 59: Pt.2


    "What did you say? An-what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression stiffened upon realizing that she had made a slip of the tongue. Then, she panicked to think of an excuse before saying, "I said...Tang Xin."


    "But I clearly heard you saying An...something just now?" Murong Shi said, a yful smile forming on her face. "Is that Tang Xin''s nickname?"


    Taking advantage of the situation, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly smiled and nodded.


    Murong Shi didn''t expose Xu Chuanchuan even though she knew the other party was lying. Instead, she sat up, grabbed the crocodile bolster with one hand, and narrowed her eyes as she looked at the crocodile. Then, she said in an unkind tone, "Since it''s a gift for her, this thing can''t sleep between us."


    "Why?"


    Snorting, Murong Shi coldly said, "Because I don''t like it."


    <em>If you''re jealous, just say so.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan could only watch as Murong Shi took the crocodile bolster away and locked it away in the wardrobe as if she were locking away a criminal.


    After stuffing the bolster back into the wardrobe, Murong Shi pretentiously dusted her hands before walking back to the bed and saying, "Let''s sleep."


    "Okay..."


    The switch for the lights was on Xu Chuanchuan''s side, and she only turned them off after Murong Shi had settled back into the bed. As soon as the room was plunged into darkness, Xu Chuanchuan felt all of her senses being magnified.


    Xu Chuanchuan could smell the light scent wafting off from Murong Shi''s body. The smell was a familiar one as it was probably the scent of the shower gel she typically used.


    Now that one extra person upied the room, the room''s temperature had seemingly be a little higher. Unable to stand the heat, Xu Chuanchuan pulled the nket covering her aside.


    Murong Shi remained silent throughout this process, seeming as if she had fallen asleep already. Then, out of curiosity, Xu Chuanchuan tentatively asked, "Are you asleep?"


    "No," Murong Shi lightly responded.


    "I-It''s cold at night. Y-You''d better cover your belly with the nket, or you''ll catch a c-cold easily," Xu Chuanchuan said, stumbling on her words a few times due to anxiety.


    "Where''s the nket?"


    Xu Chuanchuan quietly threw the nket to Murong Shi''s side. Then, while listening to Murong Shi rustle for the nket, she asked, "Did you find it?"


    "Mhm," Murong Shi responded, the calmness of her voice making it sound as if she wasn''t the person who had aggressively pushed Xu Chuanchuan down just a moment ago. "Is the nket too short? Or am I too far away from you? I can''t cover anything."


    "Huh? I''ll turn on the lights."


    "No need."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan heard the movement behind her growing louder. Murong Shi''s voice had also gotten much closer, so close that she was practically speaking right by her ear as she said, "It''s okay now."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see anything, her senses told her that Murong Shi was currently very, very close to her. Immediately, she started growing anxious.


    Fortunately, Murong Shi did not take things any further than that. Instead, she asked, "Did I scare you just now?"


    At the mention of this matter, Xu Chuanchuan''s heartbeat and breathing started elerating beyond her control. To hide her embarrassment and anxiety, she chose to bite down on her nket and remain silent.


    "I''m sorry. I just couldn''t help myself at the time."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could think of a proper response, she suddenly felt the person beside her moving closer to her once more, and she subconsciously stifled her breathing.


    The next second, the sound of Murong Shi sighing entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ear. Then, Murong Shi said, "Xu Chuanchuan, it''s not shameful to have desires."


    Xu Chuanchuan loosened her lips, though her hands still gripped onto the nket tightly. Then, she said, "I I don''t think it''s shameful, either."


    "What are you afraid of, then?"


    "I I just haven''t mentally prepared myself yet. I think that I think that we''re progressing too quickly."


    Murong Shi remained silent. Only after some time had passed did she ask, "Do you not want to do those things with me?"


    If Xu Chuanchuan were to be honest, even though Murong Shi''s previous actions had caused her entire being to turn into a mess, she still knew what her heart and body desired. So, she could confidently say that she still hadn''t reached the level of having the urge to have further physicalmunication with Murong Shi. It was also because of this reason that she was frightened by Murong Shi''s fervor before.


    After pondering for some time, Xu Chuanchuan said with difficulty, "That That''s not I just feel that"


    "Do you intend to only have a spiritual interaction with me and not have any physical contact with me at all?" Murong Shi impatiently interrupted Xu Chuanchuan. "Fang Qin once told me that there is a category of women whose sexuality is very vague. They prefer to fall in love with people of the same sex, but they are only willing to <em>that </em>kind of rtionship with men. So, Xu Chuanchuan, are you one of those women?"


    The shift in the conversation topic was too quick, and Xu Chuanchuan nearly failed to follow Murong Shi''s pace. She also couldn''t help but be stumped by this question.


    This was an incredibly tricky question. If she failed to provide an appropriate answer, their rtionship could very welle to an end tonight.


    <em>Did my intense resistance cause her to misunderstand?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had only be bent recently, so she still had very little understanding of same-sex rtionships. She only knew that she liked Murong Shi, liked kissing Murong Shi, and liked being embraced in Murong Shi''s arms while listening to thetter''s words of love. As for physicalmunication... If Xu Chuanchuan were honest, she was somewhat resistant to the idea for now.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t sure if she was opposed to this idea because the time they spent interacting was too short or because of something else...


    As Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t reach a convincing answer in her mind, she could not provide Murong Shi with a clear answer. However, she truly didn''t wish for their rtionship to end like this, either.


    The long silence caused the air to stagnate. Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan could no longer sense Murong Shi''s breath on her neck. In her panic, she turned around and embraced Murong Shi in the dark.


    "..." Murong Shi remained motionless in Xu Chuanchuan''s arms.


    After much deliberation, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Murong, we stillck understanding of each other. Can we give each other more time? I like you very much. I''m not ying around. I want to be with you."


    Xu Chuanchuan fumbled in the dark for a moment. Then, when she felt Murong Shi''s face, she leaned closer and carefully kissed Murong Shi''s lips.


    At first, Murong Shi did not respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s kiss, so XuChuanchuan struggled to pry open Murong Shi''s lips with her tongue. Then, Xu Chuanchuan applied all of the skills she learned recently to please Murong Shi.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan''s efforts bore fruit as Murong Shi finally loosened her guard, reciprocating Xu Chuanchuan''s hug and kiss. She even took things one step further and deepened their kiss.


    By the time they separated, Xu Chuanchuan nearly fainted from oxygen deprivation. However, the two still kept embracing each other, their foreheads stuck together as they listened to each other''s heartbeats and breathing.


    After a long while, Murong Shi affectionately said, "I promise I won''t force you again next time, so let''s pretend today''s matter never happened, okay?"


    Murong Shi''s slightly hoarse voice was indescribably sexy, her every word stirring Xu Chuanchuan''s fragile nerves. In the end, Xu Chuanchuan simply responded with a weak nod.


    Then, cing one hand on Xu Chuanchuan''s waist, Murong Shi said, "Go to sleep. Sweet dreams."


    "Mhm."


    Murong Shi''s final words seemingly had a soothing effect as Xu Chuanchuan quickly fell asleep.


    Xu Chuanchuan had a good night''s sleep. She neither dreamt nor woke up to use the toilet throughout the entire night. When she heard the familiar ringing of her phone''s rm, she frowned slightly.


    However, the ringingsted only a few seconds before it disappeared. Although Xu Chuanchuan wondered if she was suffering from auditory hallucinations, she quickly rxed and fell asleep again.


    After an unknown amount of time had passed, Xu Chuanchuan vaguely heard someone talking in a hushed tone. However, with the air conditioner running, her pillow so soft, and her bed so smooth and stretchy, how would she be willing to wake up?


    <em>Wait, smooth and stretchy? It''s a little warm as well... This doesn''t feel like my bedsheet!</em>


    In her daze, Xu Chuanchuan gave the strange object in her palm a squeeze.


    Then, she suddenly heard a faint moan entering her ears.


    <em>Someone else is here!!!</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes snapped open at this realization, only to be given a fright when she saw Murong Shi''s face positioned right in front of hers.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan for a while before shezily asked, "Awake?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan regained her senses, she found that the person lying next to her was supporting her head with one hand and holding a phone in the other hand, as if she had just finished a phone call with someone. Her long hair wasid out like silk, partly covering Xu Chuanchuan''s arm and giving her an itchy feeling. Although there were faint dark circles under this person''s eyes, they did not hinder her beauty at all. Her thin lips were lightly pressed together, and the warmth in her long and slender eyes was practically overflowing.


    At this moment, Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi was as beautiful as a bodhisattva.


    Of course, a bodhisattva wouldn''t have their buttocks exposed for the world to see.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could spend any time appreciating Murong Shi''s bare face after waking up, she was dumbfounded by the sight before her. She had actually lifted the hem of Murong Shi''s gown and ced her hand on Murong Shi''s hip in her sleep!


    Murong Shi wasn''t wearing any underwear!


    Worse yet, Xu Chuanchuan realized that she had squeezed Murong Shi''s buttocks just now!


    Xu Chuanchuan retracted her hand as if jolted by electricity. Then, she covered her face and said, "I''m sorry, I''m sorry! I didn''t mean it!"


    <em>What did I just do?!! I even vowed I didn''t want to do those things before sleeping!!!</em>


    However, Murong Shi was neither angered nor annoyed. On the contrary, she revealed a pleasant smile, making it seem as if she were the one who had taken advantage of Xu Chuanchuan instead of the other way around. Then, she pulled apart Xu Chuanchuan''s hands bit by bit, looked at the other party''s blushing face, and teasingly said, "Tell me. Who exactly is the bigger scoundrel between us?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted nothing more than to suffocate herself to death with her nket right now. She felt aggrieved about this situation, but she dared not voice her grievances.


    With nowhere safe to settle her gaze, Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth and pitifully said, "I didn''t know things would turn out like this. I thought..."


    Xu Chuanchuan had previously been confused as to why her bed had suddenly be so smooth and stretchy. It turned out that what she touched wasn''t her bedsheet but Murong Shi''s buttocks instead...


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bear to exin her actions, so she tried to flee from the bed.


    However, Murong Shi effortlessly caught Xu Chuanchuan and pulled her back. Then, narrowing her bewitching eyes, Murong Shi scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan from top to bottom before saying, "Are you nning to dine and dash?"


    "T-Then, what do you want?" Xu Chuanchuan asked on the brink of tears.

 Chapter 60: Pt.1

    Chapter 60: Pt.1


    "Where do you think you''re going?" Murong Shi pulled Xu Chuanchuan into her embrace, her eyes curving into a narrow smile. "You can''t be the only one to profit from this transaction. I need to cop a feel as well."


    Xu Chuanchuan''splexion changed out of fright. "Ahhh! Help! There''s a pervert here!"


    Murong Shi ignored Xu Chuanchuan''s shouting and ced a palm on the waistband of Xu Chuanchuan''s pants. Then, she smirked and said, "There is no one else here. Nothing will change even if you yell out your lungs."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan panicked as she restraint the hands that were trying to remove her pants. "No, you can''t do this! You said it yourselfst night that you wouldn''t force me!"


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said in a righteous tone, "I''m not trying to bed you. I''m only taking back what you owe me. Is that wrong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan continued screaming and trying to struggle free from Murong Shi''s restraint. Simultaneously, regret filled her heart. Had she steeled her heart and refused to let Murong Shi sleep in the same bed with herst night, none of this would''ve happened. Now, however, nothing she did would clear her of her crimes.


    Murong Shi wanted to pull Xu Chuanchuan''s pants down while Xu Chuanchuan desperately defended herself. After a series of back and forths, the two had be entangled together by the nket. Even so, neither side gave up on their respective endeavors.


    After failing to achieve sess for some time,Murong Shi decided to use this situation to take liberties with Xu Chuanchuan. This, in turn, caused Xu Chuanchuan to scream one time after another as she realized that she was fighting a losing battle.


    Suddenly, Murong Shi gently bit Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and spoke in a seductive voice, "Do you think the people in the office downstairs will hear you if you scream so loudly?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''splexion instantly changed, and she reflexively covered her mouth with her hands. This, in turn, allowed Murong Shi to seed in her initial goal.


    Xu Chuanchuan was at the brink of tears after having her buttocks caressed ruthlessly by a certain someone. She also became drained of energy after experiencing such an intense exercise right after waking up, her body weakly copsing into Murong Shi''s arms. With watery eyes, Xu Chuanchuanined, "You''re always bullying me."


    After helping Xu Chuanchuan put on her pants again, Murong Shi gave her aforting kiss on the forehead and softly said, "How can this be considered bullying? Flirting is proof of love."


    With a resentful expression, Xu Chuanchuan said, "But you did it on purpose! Why weren''t you wearing any underwear?!"


    In response, Murong Shi put on an innocent expression and said, "I don''t have a change of underwear. What else could I wear?"


    "Then... Then you could..." Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t refute Murong Shi''s words. When her eyes inadvertently swept across Murong Shi''s plump buttocks, her face heated up even more. Immediately, she pulled the pillow from Murong Shi''s side and buried her face in it to hide her embarrassment.


    At this time, knocking sounds suddenly came from the door.


    Xu Chuanchuan reflexively sat up when she heard the sound. Then, she took a quick look at Murong Shi before turning to the door and asking, "Who is it?"


    She had been so focused on fooling around just now that she had failed to notice someone entering the apartment!


    Before Murong Shi could provide an answer, the person outside the door carefully asked, "Are you two awake yet?"


    "It''s Little Yan," Murong Shi said as she lightly smacked Xu Chuanchuan''s raised hips. "She should be here to bring me a change of clothes."


    Xu Chuanchuan tried to climb out of bed in a panic, but Murong Shi managed to leave the bed first and reached for the door.


    When the door opened, they found that the person outside was indeed Little Yan.


    Little Yan currently held a bag of clothes in her hands. When she saw Murong Shi''s partially exposed shoulders and crumpled nightgown, she pretended to be unhappy as she said, "Amazing. You two started living together while I was away."


    In response, Murong Shi calmly said, "I''m all for it, but she is against it."


    Little Yan peeked through the crack of the door, only to see a corner of the messy bed. Then, she lowered her voice and asked, "Did you two do...<em>that</em>? Is Chuanchuan still asleep? Did you abuse her until she can''t get out of bed?"


    Despite Little Yan speaking quietly, Xu Chuanchuan still managed to hear the girl''s every word. Immediately, she loudly protested, "Little Yan, don''t spout nonsense! We only slept in the same bed and did nothing else!"


    Murong Shi smiled but did not refute Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan retracted her prying gaze and scrutinized Murnog Shi from top to bottom. Then, she clicked her tongue and said, "Youck charm, Cousin."


    After taking the bag in Little Yan''s hands, Murong Shi snorted and said, "Little children shouldn''t be so gossipy. Go downstairs and wait for me."


    When Murong Shi mmed the door shut, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly eximed, "It''s nine-thirty already! I''mte!"


    Murong Shi leisurely walked over and watched as Xu Chuanchuan hurried to get dressed. Then, she said, "Don''t worry. Your department chief called just now, so I helped you apply for a one-hour leave."


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You answered the call for me? Did you also turn off my rm?"


    In response, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s nose, forcing thetter to open her mouth slightly for air. She couldn''t help but smile when she looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s dazed look. Then, she said, "You were sleeping so soundly, so I wanted to let you sleep a little longer. Also, Little Yan hadn''t arrived at the time, so I couldn''t go to work, either."


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the feeling of being spoiled, and sweet feelings filled her heart. Although she felt a little ashamed, she was mostly happy about this situation. Then, after calming herself, she said, "Isn''t it bad for you to do something like this? You are, after all, thepany''s manager. How can you condone your subordinates to sleep in?"


    "There won''t be a next time."


    After the two changed into their usual work attire and washed up, they got ready to head downstairs.


    Before leaving the apartment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll leave first while you leave after some time. Otherwise, we''ll create misunderstandings if others see us together."


    Murong Shi didn''t mind beingte, so she obediently listened to Xu Chuanchuan''s arrangements.


    When Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the Engineering Department''s office, the first person she came across was her department chief. Then, the department chief asked her, "Little Xu, are you not feeling well?"


    A reason was needed whenever apany employee applied for leave. However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know what exactly Murong Shi had said to her department chief. There was also no way she could tell the truth and say that she had missed her rm. So, she quickly yed along and said, "That''s right But I''m fine now, thank you for worrying."


    Then, the department chief asked, "By the way, who answered the phone for you just now? Why does her voice sound so much like Miss Murong''s?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped. Then, without batting an eye, she said, "You must''ve misheard. That was my little sister."


    The department chief didn''t doubt Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, after casually saying a few more words, he turned around and left.


    Aunt Lian was usually responsible for Murong Shi''s lunch. When lunchtime arrived, she would personallye to deliver the food. Meanwhile, after Xu Chuanchuan officialized her rtionship with Murong Shi, Murong Shi often invited her to eat together. However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to take advantage of Murong Shi in such a manner. She was also afraid of being seen by others, which would negatively affect both their reputations. So, Xu Chuanchuan continued her habit of going out for lunch together with her colleagues.


    Today was no different as Xu Chuanchuan went out to eat a quick meal together with Chen Lina and Xu Xiaomei.


    The food had yet to arrive, so Chen Lina, who sat across Xu Chuanchuan, quietly asked, "Little Xu, did you get yourself a boyfriend recently?"


    Xu Chuanchuan took a sip of cold water. Then, she smiled and answered, "No. Why do you ask?"


    Chen Lina hesitated for a moment before beckoning for Xu Chuanchuan to move her head closer.


    After Xu Chuanchuan leaned forward, she saw Chen Lina reaching for the back of her neck and pointing at a certain location. Then, Chen Lina said, "You have a very obvious hickey here."


    "H-Hickey?!" Blood drained from Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Although she couldn''t see the back of her neck, she didn''t need to guess to know that the hickey was something Murong Shi had left herst night.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face and ears turned bright red. Then, just when she was about to exin herself, Chen Lina got ahead of her and said, "As an experienced hand, I can tell at a nce that it''s a hickey. If you don''t have a boyfriend, how do you exin this thing on your back?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." The other party''s tone was so confident that Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t offer any rebuttals at all.


    Then, Xu Xiaomei excitedly said, "Is it that obvious? I wanna see it! I wanna see it!"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t avoid Xu Xiaomei in time and ended up letting the other party grab her shoulders. Then, Xu Xiaomei lifted Xu Chuanchuan''s hair and cried out exaggeratedly, "It <em>is </em>a hickey! Little Xu, your boyfriend sure is ruthless!"


    Xu Xiaomei had a resonant voice. As soon as she spoke, almost everyone in the restaurant had simultaneously turned in their direction. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t break free from Xu Xiaomei''s hold, so she had no choice but to cover her face with her hair.


    "What are you three talking about?"


    Suddenly, a familiar voice entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears. Without caring about her embarrassment, Xu Chuanchuan looked up and found Murong Shi and Little Yan approaching their table.


    <em>Shouldn''t these two be enjoying Aunt Lian''s homemade lunch right now? What are they doing here?</em>


    Meanwhile, when Little Yan made eye contact with Xu Chuanchuan, she enthusiastically greeted, "Hi, Chuanchuan!"


    "Hi" Xu Chuanchuan returned the greeting. While doing so, she subconsciously nced at Murong Shi, who stood half a head taller than Little Yan because of her high heels.


    Coincidentally, Murong Shi was also looking at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, in front of everyone in the restaurant, she cast a wink at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Murong Shi instantly attracted everyone''s gazes the moment she appeared. However, as if she did not notice the stares she was receiving, shezily inspected the restaurant''s environment.


    Both Chen Lina and Xu Xiaomei were shocked to see Murong Shi. However, Xu Xiaomei quickly reacted and smiled, saying, "Miss Murong, are you also here to have lunch today?"


    Murong Shi wasn''t in her work mode right now, so her attitude was much gentler as she said, "That''s right. Our nanny isn''t home, so Little Yan and I have no choice but to find food for ourselves."


    Then, Chen Lina hesitantly said, "This restaurant mostly serves fast food and stir fry. Are you two ustomed to eating them?"


    "We aren''t picky," Murong Shi nonchntly replied. Then, after looking around, she continued, "But it seems there are no seats left here."


    The seats in this restaurant came in the form of benches. Xu Xiaomei and Chen Lina shared a bench, while Xu Chuanchuan upied one all by herself. Seeing this, Chen Lina eagerly offered, "The seats here are quite spacious. If you two don''t mind, you can squeeze in with Little Xu.''


    Murong Shi''s lips curled upward as she looked toward Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she said without hesitation, "Sure."


    Xu Chuanchuan tactfully moved deeper into the cubicle and opened up ample space for Murong Shi and Little Yan. Seeing this, Little Yan walked over with a bright smile on her face. However, before she could settle down, someone grabbed onto her arm and pulled her aside.


    "You sit outside," Murong Shi indifferently said.


    Little Yan harrumphed in dissatisfaction but did not make anyments.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi sat next to Xu Chuanchuan in a natural manner. However, the two people seated across the table no longer acted as carefreely as they did before because of her joining the table.


    To resolve the awkward situation, Murong Shi smiled and asked the two in a friendly tone, "What were you three talking about so happily just now?"


    As if trying to im credit, Xu Xiaomei rushed to say, "We were talking about Little Xu''s new boyfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "!!!"

 Chapter 60: Pt.2

    Chapter 60: Pt.2


    "We were talking about Little Xu''s new boyfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "!!!"


    As soon as Xu Xiaomei finished speaking, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt a certain someone grabbing onto her hand under the table and holding onto it tightly.


    On the surface, Murong Shi still appeared very calm. She rested her cheek on one hand and tilted her head to look at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she slowly asked, "You even have a boyfriend?"


    As soon as Murong Shi finished speaking, Xu Chuanchuan felt her hand being squeezed even tighter. Then, sensing the danger, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly denied, "I don''t have a boyfriend!"


    Unfortunately, Xu Xiaomei, with her big mouth, stabbed Xu Chuanchuan in the back as she said, "If you don''t have a boyfriend, how do you exin the hickey on the back of your neck?"


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan sensed the pressure on her hand softening. A hint of a smile had also appeared in Murong Shi''s calm eyes as she said, "There''s even a hickey... I see."


    This time, it was Xu Chuanchuan''s turn to squeeze Murong Shi''s hand. She also sent thetter a re, her eyes seemingly saying, "It''s all your fault I made a fool of myself!"


    However, the two people sitting across the table took Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction as her silent acknowledgment.


    Seizing the opportunity, Chen Lina asked, "Little Xu, what does your boyfriend do?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Meanwhile, Chen Lina asked with sparkly eyes, "Is he tall? Is he handsome?"


    "He''s quite tall...but he''s not handsome," Xu Chuanchuan said. However, when she sensed pressure building up around her hand again, she hurriedly blurted out, "But he is very good looking!"


    Xu Xiaomei giggled and asked, "What do you mean by good-looking? Does he look like a girl? Do you have a photo?"


    After letting out a dryugh, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No photos. We have only gotten together recently, and we rarely take photos."


    "Eh... Make sure to take one next time. Or better yet, bring him to us," Xu Xiaomei urged.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan vaguely said, "This... Let''s save this for the future."


    "Do you like him?" Murong Shi suddenly asked in a casual tone.


    <em>This person really is</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan sent Murong Shi a nce. Then, she said, "I do."


    "How much?"


    "I...like him very, very much."


    Murong Shiughed out happily. She then flipped around Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and sped their hands together. However, Murong Shi still wasn''t done with her questions as she asked, "He must have a lot of strong points. So, what made you like him?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Do you have no shame?</em>


    There were so many pairs of eyes in front of her, so Xu Chuanchuan mentally struggled for some time before she bit the bullet and said, "He... Although he often bullies me, he takes very good care of me."


    Xu Xiaomei curled her lips and sourly said, "Is he that good? Are you sure you''re not looking at him through rose-colored sses?"


    Although Xu Chuanchuan maintained a smile on the surface, inwardly, she was weeping. How could she possibly dare bad-mouth a certain someone right in their face? Also, this someone still held control over her hand.


    Then, Xu Xiaomei added, "Your boyfriend must be a closet pervert."


    "Closet...pervert?" Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously nced at the person beside her.


    Murong Shi remained indifferent.


    "Your boyfriend left such a mark on the back of your neck. It''d be strange if he weren''t a closet pervert. Also, I heard closet perverts are extremely vigorous in bed."


    Although Xu Xiaomei had deliberately suppressed her voice, Xu Chuanchuan''s face still turned bright red when she heard the content of her words. This was especially true when she recalled the close call she had with Murong Shist night. Then, she stammered, "He and Iwe''ve only ever kissed. We still haven''t done...<em>that</em>."


    Frowning, Xu Xiaomei said, "You two are still quite innocent."


    <em>Innocent, my ass.</em>


    The restaurant''s service was very efficient, and it didn''t take long for the waiters to bring the food over one after another. Along with the food''s arrival, the awkward conversation finally came to an end.


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief and picked up her chopsticks to grab a mouthful of rice. While she was chewing, she heard Xu Xiaomei suddenly asking, "How is your boyfriend''s skill in kissing?"


    "<em>Cough</em>" Xu Chuanchuan choked on the rice and violently coughed while covering her mouth.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi hurriedly put down her chopsticks and helped pat Xu Chuanchuan''s back. While patting, she spoke in a partially berating voice, "Eat slowly. Here, wash it down with some soup."


    Xu Chuanchuan recovered after taking a mouthful of soup. Then, she revealed a stiff smile while awkwardly moving her shoulders.


    Murong Shi caught on to Xu Chuanchuan''s hint and quietly withdrew her hand.


    Meanwhile, seeing the blush on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Chen Lina considerately said, "Xiaomei, stop asking such direct questions. Little Xu is very shy."


    However, Xu Xiaomei loved gossiping the most, so how could she possibly let go of such a good opportunity? Brushing aside Chen Lina''s warning, she continued, "It''s normal for couples to kiss. Little Xu, don''t tell me you''re such a conservative person? You''re getting embarrassed over such questions?"


    They normally shared a good rtionship, so Xu Chuanchuan knew that Xu Xiaomei loved to gossip. If she were to avoid Xu Xiaomei''s questions now, the other party might keep on bugging her about it in the future. So, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head and quietly said, "He''s quite skilled"


    Xu Xiaomei suddenly startedughing out loud while pointing at Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Then, she said, "Little Xu, the look on your face is so funny! Sure enough, a woman in love is blind."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "He''s skilled at kissing?" Little Yan, who had remained silent all this time, suddenly interjected.


    Little Yan knew about her rtionship with Murong Shi, so Xu Chuanchuan grew even more embarrassed. Xu Chuanchuan dared not look at Little Yan. Instead, she snuck a nce at the person seated beside her.


    In response, Murong Shi turned to Xu Chuanchuan and said with a straight face, "Someone who is good at kissing should be good in bed as well."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Let''s see how long you can keep on this act.</em>


    This meal ended up feeling like torture for Xu Chuanchuan.


    After the meal, their group split up, with Chen Lina and Xu Xiaomei returning to the office and Xu Chuanchuan and Little Yan returning to the dormitory.


    As for Murong Shi, not only did she follow Xu Chuanchuan and Little Yan to their apartment, but she had also shamelessly followed Xu Chuanchuan into her room. Then, after casually lying down on the bed, she said, "Sure enough, the bed is much morefortable than the sofa. Can I spend my afternoon break here today?"


    "...You''re asking after you''ve lied down?"


    Then, Murong Shi dragged Xu Chuanchuan down to the bed as well, and the two of them had a staring contest as theyid side by side to each other.


    "Are you not going to sleep?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    While subconsciously twirling Xu Chuanchuan''s hair, Murong Shi said, "They mentioned someone called Xiao Li making advances at you before."


    "It''s not what you think I heard others saying that he is a womanizing bastard. Although he gave me some chocte and milk tea before, I didn''t ept any of them and just gave them away to other people afterward."


    "I don''t think I''ve ever given you anything."


    "You''ve given me a cushion foundation previously."


    "That''s something I used before, so that doesn''t count."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan awkwardly said, "I''ve never given you anything, either. When is your birthday?"


    An uncertain gaze appeared in Murong Shi''s eyes. But then, she nonchntly said, "It''s still a few more months away, so no need to hurry for that."


    "Thenwhy don''t I give you lipstick?" Xu Chuanchuan suggested. She wasn''t used to taking things for granted.


    Smiling, Murong Shi asked, "Did you not notice that I stopped using lipstick ever since we got together?"


    After going through her memories, Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi was indeed telling the truth.


    Then, Murong Shi gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s lips with her thumb and said in a low voice, "Wearing lipstick will make it inconvenient when I want to kiss you."


    Murong Shi''sst word disappeared between the two''s lips and teeth.


    Thanks to Xu Xiaomei''s big mouth, practically everyone in thepany had found out about Xu Chuanchuan getting a boyfriend. The advantage of this situation was that her colleagues had stopped trying to introduce a boyfriend to her. The disadvantage of it was that Little Li had begun pestering her again.


    "I never thought you were this type of person. You were epting my goodwill while making out with another man," Little Li said after stopping Xu Chuanchuan at the pantry''s entrance.


    Putting on a puzzled look, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    "I thought you were shy and innocent before. You might''ve said you had no feelings for me on the surface, but you still epted my gifts and strung me along. I didn''t think you were such a hypocrite."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew unhappy when she was inexplicably criticized. "Since when have I epted your gifts? It''s you who put those things on my table while I was away. I gave all of those things to Zhou Gong and the others. You can go ask them if you don''t believe me."


    Xiao Li''s expression stiffened.


    Xu Chuanchuan circled Xiao Li and left the pantry.


    Then, after snapping out of his daze, Xiao Li caught up with Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Did you really get a boyfriend?"


    Xu Chuanchuan ignored him.


    "Invite him out for lunch together some time."


    Xu Chuanchuan continued ignoring Xiao Li. She also hastened her footsteps. However, just as she was about to walk past the general manager''s office, her feet suddenly stopped.


    Almost at the same time, the doors to the office opened as if having received her summons.


    Murong Shi wore a gloomy expression on her face as she scanned Xiao Li with a sharp gaze. Then, she said to Xu Chuanchuan, "Youe in."


    As if having received amnesty, Xu Chuanchuan promptly slipped into the office.


    After closing the door, Murong Shi unhappily said, "I saw him stopping you just now through the surveince. What did he say to you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to bring up those ugly words again, so she shrugged and said, "It''s nothing."


    Murong Shi frowned.


    ...


    The next day, Xu Chuanchuan heard that Xiao Li had been transferred from a rtively idle position in the Engineering Department to the busy first-floor warehouse.


    "Don''t tell me you''re responsible for that?" Xu Chuanchuan asked Murong Shi.


    "Since he has so much free time, he might as well take on a busier position," Murong Shi said with a sneer.


    If Xu Chuanchuan were honest, Xiao Li didn''t harass her much, so she didn''t expect him to meet such a fate. Meanwhile, through this incident, Xu Chuanchuan also found that Murong Shi''s jealousy grew stronger and stronger. First, Murong Shi had gotten jealous over the crocodile bolster Ange gave her. Now, Murong Shi was jealous because Xiao Li had harassed her. Later that day, Murong Shi had even gotten jealous because she watched Xu Xiangxiang''s live stream.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t rx with her little sister, so she punctually watched Xu Xiangxiang''s live stream at night. As a result, she couldn''t go out on a date with Murong Shi.


    As apromise, Murong Shi chose to watch the stream together with Xu Chuanchuan in bed. Murong Shi had been rather patient initially. However, she started growing agitated as time passed, and she would sometimes caress and pinch Xu Chuanchuan here and there. In the end, she was no longer able to hold back her impatience as she asked, "Do you really intend to watch her stream every night?"


    It was unrealistic to keep watch over Xu Xiangxiang every night. After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll keep an eye on her today. Afterward, I''ll just put on an act to scare her."


    Murong Shi stopped speaking and switched her attention back to the phone.


    Xu Xiangxiang was very eloquent, and she used this eloquence to chat and y games with her viewers. Whenever she lost a game, she would reveal one of her secrets as a punishment.


    While shuffling the deck of poker cards in her hand, Xu Xiangxiang smiled and said, "I don''t have many secrets. Can I talk about my big sister''s instead?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Facing the camera, Xu Xiangxiang mumbled to herself, "My sister was afraid of telling others when she got her first period. I don''t know what went through her mind, but whenever her underwear got dirty, she would run to the bathroom and change into a new one, and she ended up using all of her underwear that day. Afterward..." Whileughing maniacally by herself, Xu Xiangxiang continued, "Afterward, she went to school without any underwear on the next day, and her pants ended up gettingpletely stained by blood!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." Xu Chuanchuan began wondering whether this little sister of hers was adopted.


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt an itch on her left cheek as Murong Shi gently rubbed her nails against her face. Then, while holding back a smile, Murong Shi said, "Quite the childhood you have there."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Following this, so long as Xu Xiangxiang lost a game, she would expose one of Xu Chuanchuan''s childhood secrets. This infuriated Xu Chuanchuan, and she hesitated whether she should call her little sister to give the other party a scolding.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan with delight in her eyes as she said, "So, it turns out that you have so many little secrets. What else do I not know about you?"


    To salvage her reputation, Xu Chuanchuan stubbornly said, "Those are just things Xu Xiangxiang made up to nder me."


    Then, in a serious tone, Murong Shi asked, "What''s your biggest secret, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s biggest secret was probably her identity as a yuri novel author. However, there was no way she could reveal this.


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head and responded with a question, "What about you?"


    "I have no secrets."


    "That''s not possible, right?"


    "You''ve seen even my bare buttocks. What other secrets can I have?"


    "..."

 Chapter 61: Pt.1

    Chapter 61: Pt.1


    Because she had been busy going on dates recently, Xu Chuanchuan had thoroughly forgotten about her previous promise to start her new book. So she dared not log into Weibo, and neither did she dare check her reader group.


    Xu Chuanchuan would be lying if she said she didn''t feel guilty, but writing novels was a time-consuming,bor-intensive, and brain-intensive task. How could it be more enjoyable than going on dates?


    Whenever Xu Chuanchuan saw her PC covered in dust, she couldn''t help but feel like a sinner. However, these feelings would disappear without a trace whenever she met with Murong Shi.


    Love truly did blind people.


    This was, after all, Xu Chuanchuan''s first time falling in love and dating someone. She was both ignorant and full of expectations, so she couldn''t help but indulge in the wonderful experience. She could even constantly hear her heart shouting at her, "Abandon all unnecessary thoughts and just enjoy it!"


    Hence, Xu Chuanchuan became even more indulgent.


    During the day, Xu Chuanchuan would work diligently at thepany. When night arrived, she would secretly go on dates with Murong Shi. Her days were both fulfilling and sweet.


    The only problem was that Murong Shi would asionally ask, "Should I find a house for us to move into together?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was initially against the idea. However, as time went by, Murong Shi''s tempting words started to get to her, and she couldn''t help but hesitate.


    Xu Chuanchuan still hadn''t provided Murong Shi with a clear answer. After returning from her date, she opened up her QQ and looked for Ange.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you busy?"


    Ange: "?!? The missing person finally returned?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t say that. [Shy]"


    Ange: "I''m free right now. What do you want?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Must I have a problem to find you? Of course, it is because I miss you."


    Ange: "Save it. That vixen has long since lured your soul away. It won''t be long before you forget about mepletely."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know whether to cry orugh when she read Ange''smenting words. Then, she replied: "How can I forget you... Also, can you change your wording? Vixen sounds terrible."


    Ange: "Oh? You''re already protecting her even before marriage. [Light a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "o()o"


    Ange: "What is it? Out with it."


    The two of them were very familiar with each other now, so Xu Chuanchuan went straight to the point and said: "She keeps wanting for us to live together recently. She also brought it up again tonight. I''m not sure whether to agree or not."


    Ange: "Someone''s in a hurry. Also, does this mean you two haven''t done it yet?"


    <em>Isn''t this too straightforward?!</em>


    Fortunately, they were separated by the inte, so Ange couldn''t see her reddened face. Pretending to be calm, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "We nearly did it at one pointbut we managed to hold back eventually. The reason why I''m against living together is mainly because of this problem. When I think of having to do that with her I''m a little scared."


    Ange: "What are you afraid of? Does she have some unique fetish? Are you afraid she''ll whip you and drip candle wax on you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "............You sure know a lot."


    <em>As to whether Murong Shi had that kind of fetishhow would I know that?!</em>


    Ange: "There are plenty of AVs with such heavy tastes. I saved quite a few on myputer. Should I send some to you for reference?"


    "I don''t want them! Save them for yourself!" Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly replied. Then, she quickly dragged the conversation back to the original topic and asked: "What do you think I should do?"


    In response, Ange did a serious analysis and said: "She''s definitely not seeking cohabitation purely for the sake of doing so. It''s evident she wants to have sex with you. This is a simple problem. If you want to have sex with her, just agree to her offer. If not, then push it back to a further date."


    Have sex with Murong Shi? This was a problem Xu Chuanchuan dared not ponder, though she already had an answer in her heart.


    The next day, Xu Chuanchuan told Murong Shi the decision she came tost night. "Let''s hold back on the matter of living together for now."


    Although Murong Shi was slightly disappointed when she heard the answer, she didn''t force the issue. Instead, she rubbed Xu Chuanchuan''s head and said, "Take your time considering, then."


    Murong Shi wasn''t a gentle person. On the contrary, she could even be very domineering sometimes. Because of this reason, Xu Chuanchuan found herself easily moved whenever Murong Shi inadvertently revealed her gentle side to her.


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly caved when she heard Murong Shi''s considerate words. However, when she recalled the conversation she had with Angest night, she pondered for a moment before asking, "Are you trying to live together with me because"


    "Because what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her gaze. Then, she said in an embarrassed tone, "Because you want to have sex with me?"


    Murong Shi was momentarily stunned. After that, though, she quickly broke into a smile as she asked, "Do I look that thirsty in your eyes?"


    This was an awkward question. But since it was a question, it required an answer.


    When Xu Chuanchuan carefully recalled the night where Murong Shi had aggressively pushed her onto the bed, she blinked her eyes and said, "Yes."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Murong Shi let out a long sigh. Then, she gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s face with her icy fingers and narrowed her eyes before saying, "Have I spoiled you too much recently?"


    ording to Xu Chuanchuan''s past experiences, whenever Murong Shi revealed such an expression, it indicated that she was close to getting angry already.


    Xu Chuanchuan grabbed Murong Shi''s hand in a panic and shrank back her neck. Then, putting on a fawning smile, she said, "There''s no deeper meaning to my words. I just"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could finish her words, the sound of her phone ringing interrupted her. When she picked up her phone, she found that it was her mother calling her.


    Murong Shi inadvertently saw the words disyed on the phone. After rxing her expression, she said, "Answer it first."


    Mother Xu would rarely take the initiative to call. Thest time Xu Chuanchuan received a call from her mother was because of Xu Xiangxiang, and she couldn''t help but wonder what her mother was calling for today. After answering the call, she greeted, "Mom?"


    "Chuanchuan, something happened to your father!"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s head buzzed, herplexion instantly turning white. Then, in a mechanical tone, she asked, "What happened?"


    In a sobbing voice, Mother Xu said, "Your father got into a fight with someone and got injured."


    Xu Chuanchuan was caught off guard by this unexpected bad news. After gulping down the saliva in her mouth, she anxiously asked, "Is it serious?"


    "I don''t know. He got hit in the head, and he''s bleeding a lot. We are on our way to the hospital right now," Mother Xu said, breaking into tears.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart instantly fell into disarray when she heard her mother crying. "Don''t panic, don''t panic. I''ll head back immediately," Xu Chuanchuan said in an attempt to cate both her mother and herself.


    After Xu Chuanchuan ended the call and put down the phone, Murong Shi immediately grabbed her wrist and asked, "What happened?"


    With a paleplexion, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said, "My dad got into an ident. Can I apply for leave? I need to head back right away."


    It was againstpany protocols for Xu Chuanchuan to apply for leave through Murong Shi since Murong Shi wasn''t her direct superior. However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have any time to ponder on this matter. Like a headless fly, she turned around to leave without waiting for Murong Shi''s answer.


    However, Murong Shi quickly dragged Xu Chuanchuan back and said, "I''ll go with you."


    "Y-You''re going with me?" Shaking her head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No need. You have a lot of work in thepany. It''ll be enough if I go alone"


    However, Murong Shi maintained a tight hold on Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she said in amanding tone, "I might be of some help."


    You''re not a doctor, so how can you help? Xu Chuanchuan thought. However, Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart being soothed a little because of Murong Shi''s words. Only, she still couldn''t help but ask, "What will happen to thepany if you''re not here?"


    "My uncle is here, so it''ll be fine," Murong Shi said.


    Xu Chuanchuan found herself convinced after just a few words.


    Xu Chuanchuan acknowledged that she was weak-willed. She didn''t wish to waste Murong Shi''s time, but she also knew that having Murong Shi apany her during this critical period would soothe her greatly.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan even had time to pack her luggage, Murong Shi had already stuffed her into the car and drove to Xian City at the speed limit.


    On the way, Xu Chuanchuan contacted Mother Xu to ask about the situation. When she heard that Father Xu was already undergoing surgery, she breathed out a long sigh of relief.


    Then, Mother Xu stammered as she tried to exin what had happened, "The house upstairs had their bathroom break down some time ago, and it''s been leaking water into our house ever since. I''ve talked to the people living upstairs about it, and they say they''ll get it fixed right away. However, it''s still leaking even after a week has gone by. The leak has ruined the walls of our bathroom and your and Xiangxiang''s bedroom. I wasn''t at home today, and your father went upstairs to discuss the problem this afternoon. I don''t know what happened, but they ended up in a fight."


    Mother Xu didn''t get to see the situation in person. When she returned home, she only saw her husband sitting in the house with blood covering his face and her father-inw standing guard beside her husband and nearly fainting from anger.


    Xu Chuanchuan only knew that her father had been injured in the head. She didn''t know exactly how severe of a fight had taken ce. She also dared not imagine it. After cing down her phone with a heavy heart, she experienced genuine fear for the first time.


    If something happened to her father


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi was dutifully doing her job as a driver. Whenever the car stopped at a traffic light, Murong Shi would also hold onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and console her, saying, "Don''t jump to conclusions yet. Save it for after you see your father in person."


    Because of Xu Chuanchuan''s anxiety, tears started flowing out of her eyes without warning. After secretly wiping away her tears, she said in a choked voice, "Thank you."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan had moved quickly, Murong Shi still caught sight of the shorter woman''s tears, and she felt as if something had stung her heart.


    Then, Murong Shi released the steering wheel and reached out to hug Xu Chuanchuan. After giving thetter a soft kiss, she said, "Everything will be alright. Don''t be afraid."

 Chapter 61: Pt.2

    Chapter 61: Pt.2


    Facts had proven that Murong Shi was indeed correct.


    They arrived at Xian City after a two-hour drive. Then, under Xu Chuanchuan''s guidance, Murong Shi drove to Xian City''s People''s Hospital.


    When they arrived at the hospital, Father Xu had alreadye out of surgery. He had received nine stitches in total. However, apart from a slight concussion, he did not suffer any significant problems.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw that her father was fine, she finally rxed her tense heart. ording to her mother, both parties involved in the fight had been wounded in action. Father Xu had suffered a head injury, while the other party had received a broken arm.


    Upon entering the car, Mother Xu finally noticed Murong Shi and asked, "This is?"


    Xu Chuanchuan sat in the passenger''s seat. Then, turning around, she introduced, "Mom, Dad, this is my friend, Murong. She offered to apany me when she heard Dad got into an ident."


    Upon hearing her daughter''s exnation, Mother Xu promptly thanked Murong Shi, saying, "Thank you very much. Have you two eaten yet? I''ll buy some ingredients and cook up something delicious for you."


    "Aunty, you''re too polite. I''m not a picky eater; I''m fine with anything," Murong Shi said, keeping her eyes forward while driving.


    It had been some time since Xu Chuanchuan had returned home. After pondering for a moment, she said, "My mom makes incredible chuanchuan. Why don''t we have her make that for you?"[1]


    Murong Shi nced at Xu Chuanchuan when she heard thetter''s words. Then, she put on an ambiguous smile and asked, "Eat chuanchuan?"


    Thinking that Murong Shi disliked the food, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s somewhat simr to mtang. Do you want to eat it?"


    In response, Murong Shi smiled and said, "Of course. I can''t wait to try it."


    For some reason, Xu Chuanchuan found that despite Murong Shi''s words sounding normal, she had noticed something subtle in Murong Shi''s expression.


    After taking a deeper read into Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan realized that their conversation just now sounded very ambiguous. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder whether Murong Shi was looking forward to eating her mother''s homemade chuanchuan or herself...


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up, and she secretly stretched out a hand and pinched Murong Shi''s thigh.


    However, Murong Shi''s indifferent expression made it seem like she didn''t feel any pain from Xu Chuanchuan''s retaliation. On the contrary, the smile on her face became even more prominent.


    Murong Shi stopped the car in front of an old apartment building. Father and Mother Xu went up first while Xu Chuanchuan waited for Murong Shi to park the car.


    The sun was scorching, so Xu Chuanchuan''s face quickly became tinted with a red hue. Then, after waiting for Murong Shi to move closer, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at the old building and said, "My house is a little tattered. I hope you don''t mind it."


    "I''m not that kind of pretentious person," Murong Shi said, smiling.


    "Also, my house is on the fifth floor, and there''s no elevator."


    "It''s okay. Let''s go."


    The staircase was narrow and steep. Xu Chuanchuan worried that it would be inconvenient for Murong Shi to climb it in her high heels, so she held one of Murong Shi''s arms to provide support.


    However, Murong Shi broke free of the hold and switched to holding hands with Xu Chuanchuan instead. Then, she said, "I''m fine. You don''t need to think of me as such a fragile person."


    Xu Chuanchuan fell silent for a moment as she looked at their intertwined hands. Then, she said, "Make sure to control yourself afterward."


    "Control what?"


    "Don''t say or do anything ambiguous."


    Pursing her lips, Murong Shi said, "I feel wronged."


    "You were already speaking nonsense in the car!" Xu Chuanchuan said as she red at Murong Shi.


    "What nonsense did I say?"


    "..."


    "Just because I said I want to eat chuanchuan? What''s wrong with eating chuanchuan?" Murong Shi asked with an innocent look.


    Xu Chuanchuan curled her lips and harrumphed. Then, she said, "Don''t think I don''t know what you''re thinking in your heart."


    In response, Murong Shi bent her knees slightly and gently blew into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear. Then, she said, "Alright, I admit that I want to eat both chuanchuans."


    "..."


    "But what can I do about it? I''m so thirsty."


    "..." <em>This woman is holding a grudge!</em>


    When Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan''s face gradually reddening, she couldn''t help butugh out loud.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan quickly covered Murong Shi''s mouth and said, "Shh."


    Then, Murong Shi pulled away Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and said with a serious face, "I didn''t think I would visit your house as a guest in such a manner."


    Putting on a bitter smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I didn''t expect this, either."


    The situation at home was worse than Xu Chuanchuan expected. When she saw that mold had already started growing on the soaked walls, she got angry and loudly said, "Mom, we must make them pay!"


    Mother Xu first helped Father Xu lie down on the sofa. Then, she sighed and said, "That''s for certain, but we''ll have to wait for them to get their bathroom repaired first. Only after the leaking has stopped can we repaint the house," Mother Xu said. Then, she nced at Murong Shi and continued, "Go apany your friend first. You can watch TV or anything. I''ll go out to buy the ingredients to make chuanchuan."


    Then, Murong Shi politely asked, "Do you need my help?"


    "No, no, please sit down," Mother Xu said. Then, she looked toward Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "By the way, why didn''t Xiangxiange back with you?"


    Upon hearing her mother''s words, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly remembered that, in her hurry, she had forgotten to tell Xu Xiangxiang about this incident. "She''s working part-time right now. I forgot to tell her."


    Mother Xu didn''t doubt Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    Grandpa Xu needed to take an afternoon nap. Father Xu also needed to rest after going through surgery. So, Xu Chuanchuan turned on the TV, lowered the volume, and watched some reality shows with Murong Shi.


    Only after they had finished eating Mother Xu''s homemade chuanchuan and got back on the road did Xu Chuanchuan give Xu Xiangxiang a call and tell her about what happened at home.


    After hearing about the incident, Xu Xiangxiang said that she would return home immediately. However, Xu Chuanchuan dissuaded her against doing so, saying, "It''s the thought that counts. There''s nothing you can do even if youe home. Don''t worry, Dad is fine."


    Xu Chuanchuan had brought home a set of chuanchuan for both Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang. Unable to resist the temptation of food, Xu Xiangxiang abandoned her live stream and visited Xu Chuanchuan that night.


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi arrived back at the dormitory, the chuanchuan had already cooled. So, Little Yan went and borrowed a cooking pot and an induction stove from next door. After the chuanchuan was heated up, the two girls of simr ages began feasting and chatting.


    "Is it good?" Xu Xiangxiang asked.


    "It''s delicious! This is the first time I''m eating chuanchuan. I didn''t think it would be so good," Little Yan said with a bright smile.


    In a delighted tone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "My mom has a secret recipe for making chuanchuan. Most of the chuanchuans sold outside can''tpare to hers."


    Little Yan had sweated profusely from the food''s spiciness. While gulping some iced water, she glimpsed the closed door of Xu Chuanchuan''s room. Then, she asked, "Should we call them out to eat together?"


    "Didn''t they say they''ve eaten already?"


    "But there''s still a lot left."


    Waving her hand, Xu Xiangxiang said, "With me around, we can definitely finish everything."


    Little Yan smiled but said nothing.


    "What are they doing inside?"


    "Uh... I don''t know," Little Yan said, her eyes flickering.


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang tilted her head and put on a confused expression as she muttered, "How strange. My sister used to hate Big Sis Shishi. Why is their rtionship suddenly so good now? Big Sis Shishi even drove my sister all the way back home today."


    Little Yan swallowed the food in her mouth and probed, "Did your sister not tell you?"


    "What did you say?"


    <em>...That''s probably a ''no,'' then,</em> Little Yan thought. But, seeing that the person herself hadn''t revealed the matter to her little sister, Little Yan felt that it wouldn''t be appropriate for her to say anything about the rtionship between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi. Then, letting out a dryugh, she said, "It''s nothing. They''re close friends now."


    There was no way Xu Xiangxiang could discern any information through Little Yan''s words with her simple mind. Though, she did grow curious as she looked at the door as she said, "I''ll go take a look at what they''re doing."


    Reacting quickly, Little Yan hurriedly held Xu Xiangxiang back and said, "Don''t go, don''t go. Let''s focus on eating and not disturb them."


    Frowning, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Disturb them? Do you know what they''re doing?"


    "I... I don''t know." <em>Probably something inappropriate for children?</em>


    Contrary to Little Yan''s thoughts, the atmosphere inside Xu Chuanchuan''s room was peaceful. There was nothing age-restricted happening on the other side of the door.


    Xu Chuanchuan had gotten a little carsick on their way back, so she and Murong Shiid on the bed together while having a light conversation.


    "My family''s house really is tattered."


    "It is quite tattered, but your mother kept it very clean."


    Sighing, Xu Chuanchuan flipped her body to face Murong Shi. Then, she said, "I want to buy a house."


    "In Xian City?"


    "Mhm." Xu Chuanchuan revealed a look of disgust when she recalled the moldy walls. "That house is small and shabby. My sister and I have shared a room since we were young, and we slept in a wooden bunk bed. I''ve long since had enough of that house."


    Maintaining a calm expression, Murong Shi asked, "Buying a house in Xian City shouldn''t be too expensive, right?"


    "It''s not. I n to buy one that''s at least 100-square-meters. The down payment should cost around two or three hundred thousand. If I include the renovation fees and everything else, I''ll need to prepare around five hundred thousand."


    "Have you saved up enough money?" Murong Shi asked with a smile.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I have enough for the down payment, but I''ll need to save up a little more for the renovation fees."


    Putting on a surprised look, Murong Shi asked, "You''ve only been working for a few years. Your monthly sry should also be barely enough to cover your living expenses. How did you save up so much money?"


    "I I invested in stocks before," Xu Chuanchuan muttered.


    Murong Shi became even more surprised. "Stocks? What a coincidence. I invest in stocks as well. Which stocks did you invest in? Let me make some money as well."


    How would I know what stocks there are?! Xu Chuanchuan regretted making up such a clumsy lie. Unfortunately, Murong Shi was persistent on the matter, so she had no choice but to bite the bullet and said, "I was following the trend at the time. I don''t remember which stocks I bought.''


    "Hah"


    Xu Chuanchuan thought Murong Shi sighed because shemented over a missed opportunity to make money. While Xu Chuanchuan was racking her mind on how to cope with this matter, she heard Murong Shi saying in a gloomy tone, "Have I ever told you about the reactions you make when you lie?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped. Then, pretending to be calm, she said, "But I didn''t lie."


    Murong Shi gave Xu Chuanchuan a deep look. Then, she said, "Alright, then. If you say so."


    Although Murong Shi did not expose her, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel guilty. When Murong Shi leaned in and kissed her, Xu Chuanchuan felt even more guilty.


    A momentter, Xu Chuanchuan put a hand between them, abruptly ending their kiss. Then, she looked straight into Murong Shi''s eyes and said, "I have something I want to tell you."


    Murong Shi took the opportunity to hold onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and gently kissed it one time after another. Then, she casually asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered when she felt Murong Shi''s soft lips and tongue wrapping around her index finger. Quickly, she withdrew her hand and rubbed the saliva stuck to her finger onto Murong Shi''s shirt. Then, she said, "I''m going to say something important. Be serious."


    In response, Murong Shi sat up on the bed in a cross-legged position. Then, after pulling Xu Chuanchuan up as well, she looked at thetter and said, "Go on."


    "Do you normally read novels?"


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "I don''t."


    "You should know about web novels, right?"


    "I heard a little from Little Yan."


    There were only the two of them in the room. Xu Chuanchuan had also locked the door when she came into the room. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan still lowered her voice before carefully saying, "I''ll tell you a secret."


    Leaning closer with an ear, Murong Shi asked, "What secret?"


    <em>...Is there a need to be this mysterious?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan thought, rendered speechless by Murong Shi''s actions. However, she still yed along and leaned closer to Murong Shi''s ear. Then, she slowly said, "I''m one of the people writing these web novels."


    "..." Murong Shi gradually sat upright and looked at Xu Chuanchuan in astonishment.


    TL Notes:


    [1]chuanchuan: The chuanchuan here refers to chuanchuanxiang (), which is also the origin of Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang''s names.

 Chapter 62: Pt.1

    Chapter 62: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan had hidden the fact that she was a yuri novel author from everyone she knew in the real world. If it hadn''t been for the family incident this time stimting her desire to buy a house as soon as possible, she felt that she would''ve kept this secret for the rest of her life.


    The main reason why Xu Chuanchuan was deciding to reveal this secret now was that she still hadn''t saved enough money for the renovation fees.


    If Xu Chuanchuan wanted to earn this money as soon as possible, she would have to start writing a new novel right away. However, as soon as she started a new book, she would have to reduce the time she spent on dates with Murong Shi to gain more time to write.


    Hence, Xu Chuanchuan decided to reveal this secret to Murong Shi to prepare thetter for this eventuality. Fortunately, confessing this secret wasn''t as difficult as Xu Chuanchuan initially expected. Murong Shi''s reaction to her confession was also within her expectations.


    "Is this a trending joke?" Murong Shi asked with a nk look.


    "..." While doing her best to hide the embarrassment on her face, Xu Chuanchuan cleared her throat and said, "This isn''t a joke. I''m telling the truth. Writing novels is a hobby of mine. Also, I''ve been writing for six years already."


    "Six years? Doesn''t that mean you started when you were still in university?"


    "That''s right. I was just like Little Yan at the time, immersed in reading novels all day long. After reading a bunch, I couldn''t help myself from trying to write my own novel. Who would''ve thought that after I started, I ended up writing until this day," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she put on an awkward smile and continued, "About just now... I''m sorry, I was indeed lying. I''ve never invested in stocks before. The money I saved up was earned through writing novels."


    "You made 300,000 yuan after six years of writing?"


    "Uh, no... I didn''t even manage to get contracted for the first two years. I earned most of the 300,000 in the past two years."


    Murong Shi fell silent for a long time.


    After seeing through Xu Chuanchuan''s lie, Murong Shi had already thought of the possibility of Xu Chuanchuan''s moneying from her books. However, she never thought Xu Chuanchuan would take the initiative to reveal the truth even though she didn''t try to insist on the matter.


    Simply put, this situation caught even Murong Shi by surprise. Meanwhile, even though she had long since known about everything, she still had to act ignorant to y along with Xu Chuanchuan, so she was in quite the subtle mood right now.


    It would look too fake if she reacted exaggeratedly. Yet, it would also arouse suspicion if she responded too calmly. While suppressing the urge to smile, Murong Shi patted Xu Chuanchuan''s head and said, "You even know how to write novels. How can my girlfriend be so excellent? I''ll have to properly boast about this when I go out for dinner with others in the future."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt embarrassed by the praise. However, her happiness onlysted a second, her expression quickly changing as she said, "No! You can''t tell others about this!"


    Puzzled, Murong Shi asked, "Why not? Being able to write novels is something amazing."


    "Because I write yuri novels! Others will start making blind conjectures if they find out!" Xu Chuanchuan said as she held onto one of Murong Shi''s arms. Then, with a stern expression, she said, "You''re the only person I have told this secret to, so you must help me hide it."


    Putting on a meaningful smile, Murong Shi asked, "I can keep quiet about it, but what do I get in return?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan sat on her knees, wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck, and gave a big kiss on Murong Shi''s pale lips. Then, she sweetly smiled and said, "You''re the best."


    Enjoying the intimacy, Murong Shi wrapped one arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and hooked Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with her forefinger. Then, continuing her role as a curious baby, she asked, "Then, can you tell me your pen name?"


    "Pen name... My pen name sounds terrible. You cannotugh if I say it."


    "Okay, I won''tugh."


    "It''s...I Love Mtang."


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, Murong Shi startedughing without any care for Xu Chuanchuan''s embarrassment.


    "..."


    Then, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s lips with her index finger and thumb and teasingly said, "Can''t you think of a better name? Why not call yourself I Love Chuanchuan?"


    After pushing Murong Shi''s hand away, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly argued, "I''ll be exposing my real name that way. I couldn''t think of anything good even after thinking for a long time, so I simply typed ''Mtang.'' Who knew that the system wouldn''t let me change my name afterward. Hey, can you stopughing?"


    Not everyone could put on an act. Murong Shi couldn''t stop herself fromughing after she started. Eventually, Murong even embraced Xu Chuanchuan and started rolling on the bed with her.


    Afraid that the noise would alert the people outside, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly covered Murong Shi''s mouth and said, "Xiangxiang and Little Yan are still outside!"


    Murong Shi wasn''t taller than Xu Chuanchuan for nothing. She easily moved Xu Chuanchuan''s hands away and took a deep breath. Then, she said, "I think it''ll be more effective if you use your mouth."


    Xu Chuanchuan red at Murong Shi with a blush on her face. Then, after calming down, she said, "I still haven''t told Xiangxiang about our situation."


    "Are you afraid of telling her?"


    Faltering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No, I don''t mind if she finds out, but she''s an inconsiderate bbermouth. What I''m afraid of is if she will identally reveal it in front of our parents."


    Murong Shi retracted her yful thoughts and sat upright while maintaining her embrace over Xu Chuanchuan. Then, after adjusting her breathing, she asked, "Are you afraid of your parents finding out?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan sighed and said, "You know that my family lives in Xian City. Both of my parents have little culture, and they are incredibly conservative in their thoughts. This goes especially true for my dad. He is also very obstinate. I don''t even dare imagine what will happen if he finds out I like women."


    Murong Shi frowned.


    The society they currently lived in was too unfair to homosexuals. Those who discriminated against thembeled them as "perverted'' and "disgusting." In an environment where homosexuality had yet to be recognized by thew, it became even more difficult for homosexuals to reveal their sexuality to others. As a result, they would often face a lot of hurdles in life.


    Before confirming her rtionship with Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan hadcked an urate grasp of her own sexuality. She always believed she was a straight woman. Hence, she could never emphasize with people who faced the ing out problem." The novels she had written also had backgrounds where same-sex marriage was legalized. Xu Chuanchuan never thought that she, too, would one day face this problem one day.


    If, someday in the future, their parents objected to them being together, what would be the fate of herself and Murong Shi?


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not think too deeply into the matter, and neither did she dare ask Murong Shi about it.


    Thus far, the time they spent together was too short, so it might be too soon for them to consider this problem. There were still many things they had yet to do and many things they had yet to enjoy. So, they shouldn''t let such heavy issues weigh down their moods.


    "The food outside smells so good. Are you hungry?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    This change in topic was very forceful. However, Murong Shi yed along with Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I''m not. What about you?"


    Shaking her head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I still haven''t digested lunch yet. Just look at my belly."


    In response, Murong Shi directly ced her hand on Xu Chuanchuan''s belly. Then, while gently caressing the bulged belly, she said in a serious manner, "It should be three months now."


    Revealing a look of surprise, Xu Chuanchuan retorted, "How can three months look like this?!"


    "Two months, then," Murong Shi said, gently giving Xu Chuanchuan''s belly button a tap with her finger. Then, she looked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "By the way, we haven''t done it yet, so where did this child in your stomache from?"


    "Of course, it is my own."


    "You made a child on your own? Impossible. Your child muste from us both," Murong Shi said. Then, she gradually moved her hand downward.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan only found Murong Shi''s touch to be itchy. However, when Murong Shi''s hand reached a certain sensitive spot, her body stiffened.


    Taking advantage of Xu Chuanchuan''s brief moment of inattention, Murong Shi gently stole her lips. Then, in a seductive voice, Murong Shi asked, "Before we make a baby, shouldn''t we do what should be done?"


    Xu Chuanchuan could sense the breath of the person hovering over her growing erratic. Before Murong Shi could steal her breath away, she quickly pushed Murong Shi away and rolled aside.


    After getting out of bed and standing up, Xu Chuanchuan straightened her wrinkled clothes and said with a smile, "We still haven''t bathed."


    Resting her chin on one hand, Murong Shi asked, "Does that mean we can do it once we''ve bathed?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s smile instantly froze. Then, she stammered, "O-Of course not!"


    Murong Shi revealed an ambiguous smile. However, instead of dragging Xu Chuanchuan back to bed, she looked at the sky outside the window. Then, she returned her gaze to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "It''s toote. I don''t want to leave. Are you willing to take me in?"


    "I refuse."


    "Oh." Murong Shi did not get annoyed or angry. Instead, she spread her limbs across the bed and shut her eyes, pretending to be dead.


    After waiting for a while and seeing Murong Shi still ying dead, Xu Chuanchuan walked over and pushed her while asking, "Are you for real?"


    Swiftly opening her eyes, Murong Shi said, "For real."


    "..."


    "I''ve been driven for six hours today, so I''m a little tired."


    If Murong Shi hadn''t brought this up, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve nearly forgotten about today''s matter. Then, she softly said, "Thank you very much for today."


    "You''re wee."


    After taking a closer look, Xu Chuanchuan managed to see a hint of exhaustion in Murong Shi''s eyes. Then, feeling a little heartache, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Alright, then. I''ll take you in for one night."


    Probably because she was drained, Murong Shi stopped speaking after responding with azy smile.


    After the two stared at each other for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "The clothes you changed out ofst time are still here. Do you want to take a shower first?"


    Murong Shi agreed.


    When the two left the room, Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang were taking group photos. When the two younger girls heard the door opening sound, they stopped what they were doing and looked over simultaneously.


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Heavens, what were you two doing inside for so long?"


    Meanwhile, Little Yan secretly smiled.


    Without batting an eyelid, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Nothing. We were just talking about buying a house."


    "Sis, you''re buying a house?" Xu Xiangxiang asked, her eyes glowing brightly.


    "Mhm. I''ll discuss it with mom afterward."


    "You can discuss it with me!"


    Rolling her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Discuss it with you for what? Do you have money?"


    "Nope."


    "Then that settles it."


    Xu Xiangxiang received a psychological blow. Then, after letting her eyes wander for a moment, she asked, "Where did you find that much money for a house?"


    "Stocks."


    "Loan."


    Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan spoke in unison, though their answers were anything but unanimous. Then, the two of them looked at each other simultaneously.

 Chapter 62: Pt.2

    Chapter 62: Pt.2


    "Stocks."


    "Loan."


    Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan spoke in unison, though their answers were anything but unanimous. Then, the two of them looked at each other simultaneously.


    Xu Xiangxiang nced back and forth between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi in confusion, asking, "Which one is it?"


    Stock investment was the excuse Xu Chuanchuan had previously given to Murong Shi, only for Murong Shi to see through it instantly. To avoid making any slip-ups when her parents asked her about it in the future, Xu Chuanchuan decided to use a more believable excuse.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan never thought that Murong Shi would answer on her behalf. Moreover, Murong Shi had even used her old excuse. After being briefly stunned, Xu Chuanchuan quickly exined, "I earned a portion through stocks, and I borrowed the rest from someone."


    "But all of our rtives are poor. Who did you borrow from?"


    "Her." Without even thinking, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at the person beside her.


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Xu Xiangxiang did not doubt her elder sister''s words. Instead, she excitedly held Murong Shi''s hand and said, "Big Sis Shishi, you''re the best! My sister must''ve saved the entire universe in her previous life to be able to make a friend like you!"


    Murong Shi smiled but did notment.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan, who had yed the role of a spectator all this time, suddenly blurted, "Does this count as being a sugar momma?"


    "Sugar momma?" Xu Xiangxiang asked,cking the brain cells to understand the underlying meaning of Little Yan''s words adequately.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi extended a hand and fiercely rubbed the top of Little Yan''s head. Then, with a false smile on her face, she said, "Little children shouldn''t talk nonsense."


    Little Yan let out a cry in response to the forceful rubbing. Then, she shrank her neck and closed her mouth.


    Xu Xiangxiang was in a good mood. Beaming a smile to her elder sister, she said, "It''ste now, and I don''t want to go home. Sis, let me sleep with you tonight!"


    Upon hearing Xu Xiangxiang''s words, Xu Chuanchuan quickly nced at Murong Shi. Coincidentally, Murong Shi also turned to look at Xu Chuanchuan, and the two of them began silently conveying messages to each other through their eyes.


    "Can outsiders stay in thepany dormitory?" Xu Chuanchuan said with her eyes. Thest time Ange visited, Murong Shi had refused Ange''s request to stay over in the dormitory with her.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi''s eyes seemingly said, "If your sister sleeps with you, what about me?"


    Unfortunately, neither of them appeared to have sessfully received each other''s message as...


    Xu Chuanchuan returned her gaze to Xu Xiangxiang and said, "Thepany has regtions. People not belonging to thepany cannot stay overnight in the dormitory."


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang looked toward Murong Shi with anxious eyes as she asked, "Is there such a rule, Big Sis Shishi?"


    The corners of her mouth twitching, Murong Shi said, "There is no such rule. It''s dangerous for you to go back alone, so just sleep over with your sister tonight."


    Murong Shi''s answer momentarily dumbfounded Xu Chuanchuan. Then, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "That''s not what you said when Tang Xin came to visitst time."


    "Xiangxiang is your sister. How can that be the same?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Double standard much?</em>


    Then, with a look of frustration, Murong Shi turned to Little Yan and said, "I''ll be sleeping with you tonight."


    "But my bed is tiny," Little Yan said, blinking in surprise.


    "We''ll squeeze a little, then."


    "But you''re so big."


    "..."


    Murong Shi seemed to have lost the strength even to speak as she had Little Yan get her a nightgown while she went to wash up in the bathroom.


    Several minutester, Little Yan came knocking on the bathroom door. When the door opened, and she saw Murong Shi wrapped in a towel, she said in a low voice, "I know you want to sleep with Chuanchuan. You must be feeling pretty upset now that someone snatched your spot, right?"


    Murong Shi flicked the residue water on her hand onto Little Yan''s face. Then, she said, "It seems you''ve been growing bolder recently."


    While wiping the water on her face, Little Yan said, "I''m innocent!"


    "Hurry up and give me the clothes."


    Little Yan let Murong Shi take the nightgown in her hands without resistance. Then, she said, "I have good news. Don''t you want to hear it?"


    Murong Shi stopped closing the door and asked, "What good news?"


    "Xiangxiang will be sleeping with me tonight, while Chuanchuan will belong to you."


    "Did you talk to Xiangxiang about it?" Murong Shi asked, shocked.


    "Hmph." Little Yan raised her chin slightly.


    "You didn''t tell her about my rtionship with Chuanchuan, right?"


    "No, I just told her that I like her a lot and want to talk to her some more."


    "Not bad." Murong Shi smiled. While ruffling Little Yan''s hair with her wet hands, she said, "It seems I didn''t pamper you for nothing."


    "Take your time washing up. Make sure to clean yourself thoroughly. I''ll be leaving now."


    After showering, Murong Shi naturally made her way to Xu Chuanchuan''s room. Whileying on the bed, she ruefully sighed and said, "Little Yan is too kind. I suddenly feel sorry for not paying her a sry."


    "Your rtionship with Little Yan sure is wonderful. You two practically feel like blood-rted sisters. My little sister, on the other hand, feels like she was adopted," Xu Chuanchuan said.


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the room next door...


    When Xu Xiangxiang saw Little Yan''s bed, she asked in surprise, "Why is your bed so much smaller than my sister''s?"


    Shrugging, Little Yan said, "I don''t know, either."


    After scrutinizing Little Yan''s figure, Xu Xiangxiang smiled and said, "Thankfully, the two of us are thin. Actually, Big Sis Shishi is thin as well. She''s just very tall."


    "But she snores. I won''t get any sleep if she sleeps with me, which is why I wanted you to sleep with me."


    "Someone as perfect as Big Sis Shishi snores?" Xu Xiangxiang asked with an incredulous look.


    "Very loudly, even," Little Yan solemnly said.


    "Then, my sister is in for a tragedy."


    "Mhm. She should be in for a tragedy. She might not even get up the next day."


    "Why can''t she get up?"


    "Because... Because she won''t get enough sleep!"


    ...


    Returning to Xu Chuanchuan''s room...


    Murong Shi had yed the role of a driver the entire day. To pay her back, Xu Chuanchuan decided to give her a massage.


    Murong Shi nearly dozed off while enjoying Xu Chuanchuan''s service. Then, she peered open her blurred eyes and held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hands, saying, "It''s gettingte. Go wash up quickly.''


    "Mhm."


    While gently squeezing Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi forced herself to stay awake as she said, "Go ahead. I''ll wait for you."


    However, by the time Xu Chuanchuan returned from the bathroom, Murong Shi had already sumbed to her exhaustion and lost consciousness.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart moved when she looked at Murong Shi''s tired face. Then, climbing onto the bed gently, she pulled a nket over Murong Shi and softly said, "Thank you for your hard work. Good night."


    Afternding a gentle kiss on that white cheek, Xu Chuanchuan turned off the lights.


    I Love Mtang: "The new book is here~ This is my first time writing about the entertainment circle. It might not be well-written, so I hope everyone can bear with me and support me, thank you! Love you all~ [Heart]"


    Xu Chuanchuan synchronized the publication time of her Weibo post and new book, and they went up at 9.10 PM. As soon as the new book got released, Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group exploded with activity.


    Wahhh! The Lord has finally started a new book! I''m so excited!!!


    Lord, I love you! I thought you were going to stop writing after stopping for so long. Will this book be another sweet romance?


    Xu Chuanchuan felt rather guilty for dying the release of her new book for such a long time. She was currently having a writing session with Ange in the Dark Room. When she identally saw her reader group''s conversation content, she decided to spare some time to reply to some questions. Just as she was about to turn off notifications for her reader group, she suddenly saw the following messages:


    Did anyone notice an ID called "I Love Chuanchuan"? This person says she is Lord''s girlfriend.


    Oh, that''s me! I''m Lord''s girlfriend! [Pick nose]


    Liar! I''m Lord''s girlfriend!


    Haha. The Lord is straight. It''s useless to fight over her.


    I saw it too. At the time, I was wondering how the Lord could have a girlfriend. Did she get bent?


    Chuanchuan and mtang are quite a good match. If I had known about this earlier, I would''ve used such a nickname as well. [Shy] While I''m at it, I might as well confess. Lord, I like your work! [Shy]


    <em>Girlfriend???</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was confused. Then, she quickly opened up her jjwxc application on her phone and checked thement section for hertest work. Sure enough, she found ament left by a reader named "I Love Chuanchuan."


    This is very well written! My girlfriend sure is awesome!


    <em>Don''t tell me this is Murong Shi?! </em>Xu Chuanchuan inwardly eximed.


    Xu Chuanchuan had previously mentioned to Murong Shi that her new book would be published today. Also, as she needed to focus on writing today, she didn''t have time to go on a date with Murong Shi. Murong Shi had grown unhappy when she heard about the cancetion of their date, and Xu Chuanchuan had to coax her for a long time before she seeded in appeasing Murong Shi. After that little episode, they separated and returned to their respective homes.


    Confused by this situation, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t focus on writing. Immediately, she took a screenshot of thement and sent it to Murong Shi, asking: "Is this you???"


    Several minutester


    Murong Shi: "It''s me. Don''t you think this name matches with yours wonderfully?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: ".........I get goosebumps whenever I see it."


    Murong Shi: "Why?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Because that''s my name!"


    Murong Shi: "Nobody knows about it. Anyway, this name sounds quite good. I like it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan received a new message notification from her QQ messenger, so she clicked on it to take a look.


    Ange: "Is this person Murong? [Image]"


    When Xu Chuanchuan opened the attached image, she found that it was none other than a screenshot of I Love Chuanchuan''sment.


    <em>Nobody knows about it, huh? </em>Xu Chuanchuan replied in frustration: "It''s her."


    Ange: "She knows about your writing gig?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Mhm. I told her."


    Ange: "Tsk. You''re flirting even on the inte. You two are too much."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...''


    When Xu Chuanchuan met up with Murong Shi during lunchtime the next day, she dragged Murong Shi into her room and pleaded, "Can you change your nickname?"


    "No," Murong Shi tly refused. "I went through a lot of trouble to download the reading app and register an ount. I did all this just to support you."


    Awkwardly rubbing her nose, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Are you really nning on following after my work?"


    "Of course. It is my duty to support my girlfriend. Also, I''m not used to using this app. Come teach me."


    It turned out that being a top student didn''t mean one would be capable in all aspects. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but react in glee when she saw the look of ignorance Murong Shi revealed. So, she leaned closer to Murong Shi''s phone and started exining every detail of the application.


    At one point, Murong Shi pointed at a certainment and asked, "What are these Landmines and Deep-water Torpedos?"


    "These are donation tools. Theye with varying price tags, ranging from one yuan to one hundred yuan. Deep-water Torpedoes are the highest form of donations, and each one costs one hundred yuan. If readers like a particr book, they would donate to the author."


    Putting on a look of realization, Murong Shi said, "How mystifying. I''ve learned something new."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>Miss Top Student, are you serious?</em>

 Chapter 63: Pt.1

    Chapter 63: Pt.1


    The time Xu Chuanchuan spent on dates with Murong Shi was growing shorter and shorter. Recently, the two of them would, at most, have dinner together at a nearby restaurant after work.


    If the restaurant had a long waiting line, Xu Chuanchuan would grow impatient and ask Murong Shi something like, "Should we switch to another restaurant" or "Why don''t we do takeaway instead." On the other hand, if the restaurant didn''t have a long wait, they would find a seat and have their meal in the restaurant.


    As luck would have it, they came across two female colleagues in the restaurant they visited today. However, Xu Chuanchuan did not try to hide. Instead, she only awkwardly greeted them.


    After the two colleagues left, Murong Shi quietly asked, "You''re not trying to avoid being seen together with me anymore?"


    Sticking out her tongue, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Nope. Let them say whatever they want."


    Murong Shi simply smiled in response.


    There was no romance to speak of on their date today. After the food was served, Xu Chuanchuan finished her portion as quickly as possible. Then, after taking a look at the time, she wiped her mouth and said, "I need to hurry back by eight o''clock."


    Xu Chuanchuan pondered for a moment. Then, she said, "Every person''s circumstances are different. I have a terrible writing speed, so I need around two hours to write 3,000 words. If I''m suffering from writer''s block, I might need twice that time. In contrast, Ange only needs an hour to write 3,000 words."


    "An-what?"


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan started talking about her "second job," she had thoroughly forgotten to mind her words. By the time she realized that she had a slip of the tongue, it was already toote. "What did I say just now?"


    Putting on a mischievous smile, Murong Shi said, "Stop pretending. I heard you loud and clear. You said ''Ange'' just now."


    "Is that so?" Xu Chuanchuan put on a surprised expression.


    "If I remember correctly, you previously told me that Tang Xin''s nickname is Ange. So...this university ssmate of yours is also a novelist?"


    Looking at Murong Shi in surprise, Xu Chuanchuan eximed, "Isn''t your memory a little too good?!"


    "So-so." Murong Shi shrugged. "So, what other story do you intend to make up?"


    "..." Letting out a long sigh, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Alright, fine. I lied to you. Tang Xin isn''t my ssmate. We met each other online, and the previous visit was the first time we met each other in person. Her pen name is Ange, and she''s simrly a yuri author like me. However, she is much more skilled than I am. She has sold the film rights to many of her novels already. Recently, one of her novels is even being made into a TV drama. Thest time I went to G City was to apany her in visiting the production crew."


    Now that Murong Shi had already found out about her secret, Xu Chuanchuan decided to confess everything at once simply.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s confession was thorough and rapid. However, the more Murong Shi listened, the darker her expression began. Finally, when Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, Murong Shi grimly asked, "She''s the one who''s amazing, so why are you feeling so proud?"


    Without even thinking, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Because I have a good rtionship with her. Since my good friend has made such a great achievement, so of course I am happy for her."


    Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan in silence for a moment. Then, she let out a cold snort, turned around, and walked away.


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned by this development. Then, she ran Murong Shi, held onto her hand, and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Without turning to look at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi tly said, "It''s hot."


    Looking at Murong Shi''s profile, Xu Chuanchuan quietly asked, "Are you jealous?"


    "I''m not."


    "Stop pretending. You always behave like this when I bring up Ange."


    Murong Shi did not follow up with Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she pretended to be displeased and said with a straight face, "Stop sticking to me; you''re sweaty."


    Xu Chuanchuan ignored Murong Shi''s struggles and held onto Murong Shi''s arms even more tightly. Then, she said, "You look pretty cute when you''re jealous."


    "I already said I''m not jealous," Murong Shi stated.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan stretched out a finger and poked Murong Shi''s cheek. Then, she smiled and said, "Even though you always act like an elder, you''re only one year older than me. Your look especially like a kid who''s throwing a tantrum right now."


    "..."


    "You look like a baby."


    "..."


    "Baby Shi, you''re so cute. Come, let Big Sister pinch your cheeks."


    Murong Shi agilely grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist. Then, after clicking her tongue, she said, "You''re no longer afraid of me now, are you?"


    "You''re so cute. Why should I be afraid of you?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, blinking her eyes.


    "Are you really not afraid anymore?" Murong Shi asked with narrowed eyes.


    As Murong Shi''s face gradually moved closer, Xu Chuanchuan could smell a hint of danger. Then, she stammered, "W-W-What do you want? Don''t mess around! There are many people here!"


    The corners of Murong Shi''s lips raised slightly. Then, she said in a sinister tone, "Wanna bet if I''ll kiss you right now?"


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan let out a soft shriek and pushed Murong Shi away.


    However, Murong Shi was only messing with Xu Chuanchuan. After seeing the panicked look on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, the annoyance she felt before vanishedpletely. Just when she was about to hold Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, though, she saw the two female colleagues from beforeing out of the restaurant through the corner of her eyes.


    Xu Chuanchuan also noticed the two female colleagues, so she swiftly readjusted her mood while simultaneously putting some distance between herself and Murong Shi.


    However, after that day, rumors rting to Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi''s good rtionship started spreading in thepany.


    Some people gossiped that Xu Chuanchuan had relied on her close rtionship with Little Yan to gain Murong Shi''s favor. Some countered by saying that Xu Chuanchuan had already been frequently moving together with Murong Shi even before Little Yan arrived. Some people even gossiped that Xu Chuanchuan was no longer the lowest-paid employee in thepany because Murong Shi had secretly told the finance department to give her a raise...


    However, even though the rumors became more and more outrageous, Xu Chuanchuan paid no attention to them. Instead, she continued doing her job and going on dates like usual. And after her dates, she would impatiently rush home and write her novel. Simply put, she was too busy to care about the rumors!


    One time, Murong Shi jokingly said, "You seem to have a very stable mind now, Oh Great Author."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew a little embarrassed upon hearing the title Murong Shi gave her. But then, she said, "I got cursed at a bunch during the first few years of my writing career, so these rumors are nothing to me."


    So long as there were no rumors of her dating Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t care what rumors her colleagues spread about her.


    Murong Shi was initially supportive of Xu Chuanchuan''s decision to focus on her writing. However, after getting sidelined several times, Murong Shi started feeling resentful.


    Xu Chuanchuan was required to publish 10,000 words on the day her novel became mized. Unfortunately, as she had started her new book in a rather rushed manner, she didn''t have much of a stockpile. So, she had no choice but to sacrifice her weekend dating time with Murong Shi to focus on writing.


    Murong Shi didn''t say much on the phone. Instead, she went straight to the dormitory to visit Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan asionally banging her head against the keyboard and frantically scratching her head, she couldn''t help but ask, "What''s the matter?"


    "Writer''s block. I want to die," Xu Chuanchuan said dejectedly.


    Taking a step forward, Murong Shi nced at the writing software disyed on the screen and asked, "Why don''t you take a break and order something to eat first?"


    "Hah-- Alright, then."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan ordered some food and ate together with Murong Shi and Little Yan.


    Recently, Little Yan had been getting along very well with Xu Xiangxiang. Even when eating, she would exchange voice messages with the other party.


    Seeing Little Yan holding onto her phone throughout the entire meal, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I didn''t expect you two to get along so well."


    "Xiangxiang is very funny, and I enjoy chatting with her a lot. I''ve even been watching her live streams every night recently."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You''re even watching her streams?"


    Smiling, Little Yan said, "That''s right! Her streams are very entertaining! Xiangxiang is talented at speaking and entertaining people. Although not many people are watching her, she always thinks up ways to get her viewers to throw money at her. I think she''s very amazing!"


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had a bad premonition. Then, she worriedly looked at Murong Shi and said, "What if Xiangxiang bes a bad influence for Little Yan?"


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Xiangxiang''s a good girl."


    "Why do you keep speaking up for her?"


    "Because she''s your little sister. My love extends to everyone connected to you."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped at Murong Shi''s words.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan picked up her phone, pressed on the ''Talk'' button, and sullenly said, "Two people are showing off their affection in front of me right now. I feel my lonely heart cracking."


    Then, Little Yan released her finger and sent the voice message.


    Xu Chuanchuan swiftly looked at Little Yan and said, "Little Yan, please don''t tell anyone about your cousin and me for now, not even Xiangxiang."


    Waving her phone around, Little Yan said, "I know. Rest assured, my mouth is sealed. I won''t tell anyone."


    Subsequently, Murong Shi smiled and added, "Little Yan is very obedient. Weren''t you always worried that Xiangxiang would do something foolish on her streams? Now that you have Little Yan helping you keep an eye on her, you can focus on your writing."


    "Are you using Little Yan?"


    In response, Murong Shi righteously said, "She''s young. She needs more opportunities to train herself."


    <em>Watching live streams is also considered a type of training?</em>


    ording to Little Yan, Xu Xiangxiang currently streamed twice a day, from three to five in the afternoon and seven to nine in the evening. Xu Chuanchuan was a little surprised when she heard this, and she couldn''t help but ask, "Since when did she be so hardworking?"


    While gnawing on a drumstick, Little Yan vaguely said, "Xiangxiang says she wants to work hard and earn money."


    "How rare." Xu Chuanchuan smiled.


    After swallowing the food in her mouth, Little Yan added, "After she heard that you were borrowing money to buy a housest time, she decided to make as much money as possible during her semester break to help you out."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned for a long time when she heard Little Yan''s exnation. Then, she asked, "Did she say that to you?"


    "That''s right. We talked about this thest time during thest sleepover. While Xiangxiang might seem rash, she is quite a sensible person. She also loves you very much."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder if they were talking about the same person for a moment. After all, in her mind, Xu Xiangxiang was nothing but azy freeloader. Her little sister had also never said anything about helping or loving her before.


    For the first time, Xu Chuanchuan started doubting her perception of Xu Xiangxiang. Then, several secondster, she couldn''t help but be deeply moved by Little Yan''s words.

 Chapter 63: Pt.2

    Chapter 63: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt motivated after hearing about her little sister''s efforts. Immediately, she gobbled down the rest of her food and said, "You two take your time. I''ll head back to work first."


    "Chuanchuan, did you pick up another private job?" Little Yan asked while gnawing on a drumstick.


    "What private job?" Murong Shi asked.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan leaned into Murong Shi''s ear and said, "It''s my writing gig. I lied to Little Yan that I was helping others write their thesis for money."


    Murong Shi blinked, expressing her understanding. Then, she said, "Go on, then. Good luck."


    ...


    Xu Chuanchuan found it strange to have Murong Shi watching her work from behind. And as she didn''t have time to apany Murong Shi because of work, she had thought to have Murong Shi go back home instead of wasting time with her.


    But Murong Shi said, "I can provide opinions for you when you are out of inspiration. If you get tired, I can also give you a massage. Isn''t that wonderful?"


    Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi''s words sounded reasonable, so she said, "Sorry for the trouble. Here, I''ll give you a kiss!"


    After saying so, Xu Chuanchuan nted a kiss on Murong Shi''s lips.


    However, how could Murong Shi possibly be satisfied with a simple touch?


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could move away, Murong Shi wrapped her arms around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and initiated a deep kiss. Then, while helping Xu Chuanchuan wipe off the crystal clear liquid on her lips, Murong Shi said in satisfaction, "Fight on, Author!"


    With Xu Xiangxiang''s dedication and Murong Shi''s love supporting her, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she had God on her side. For the first time, she managed to write 3,000 words in one hour. When she broke through the Dark Room''s first lock, she couldn''t help but cheer for herself, "I did it!"


    Due to her excessive excitement, Xu Chuanchuan ended up turning around and pushing Murong Shi down on the bed, knocking away the phone in Murong Shi''s hands in the process.


    Murong Shi did not mind Xu Chuanchuan''s actions. Instead, she smiled and said, "I''ve never seen you being so enthusiastic before."


    While helping Murong Shi pick up her phone, Xu Chuanchuan caught a glimpse of the screen and found a familiar page disyed on it. After taking a closer look, she asked, "You topped up your ount??"


    Sitting up, Murong Shi said, "Just a little."


    Pointing at the bnce of 1,000 yuan, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You call this ''little''???"


    "My hand slipped," Murong Shi nonchntly said.


    <em>Hand slipped? Where have I heard this excuse before?</em>


    Thinking up to this point, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt a voice of uncertainty appearing in her heart. Then, while Murong Shi wasn''t paying attention, she secretly opened up Murong Shi''s subscription details.


    However, there was nothing listed on Murong Shi''s subscription record.


    "What are you looking at?" Murong Shi asked curiously.


    In that instant, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought of Passerby Shi.


    The capricious tycoon''s manner of conduct resembled Murong Shi''s a lot. Neither of them took money seriously. Moreover, both of them had the word "Shi" in their names. With all these coincidences, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have her doubts.


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan carefully asked, "Have you really never read web novels before?"


    "Why would I read those things?" Murong Shi calmly replied. "What''s wrong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated for a moment before saying, "There''s a tycoon reader going by the name of Passerby Shi. I once suspected that she was you."


    "What do you mean?"


    "That''s because...she is also someone from this city. She even lives nearby. When I chatted with her, I felt that her character holds a great resemnce to you."


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "Have you met her before?"


    "No."


    "How did you determine that she is like me, then?"


    "Because you''re both frivolous."


    "What did you say?" Murong Shi raised her voice.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly changed her words and said, "I mean, you two are both quiet but passionate! <em>Cough, cough</em>"


    Murong Shi silently stared at Xu Chuanchuan for a moment. Then, she said, "You even know her address. Judging by your tone, do you two oftenmunicate?"


    "Not really, we just talked a few times. She''s the person who has given me the most donations so far. She should''ve given me over 30 Deep-water Torpedoes already, so I gifted her the physical copies of my books as a show of gratitude."


    "How wealthy. Why did she donate so much to you?"


    "Maybe it''s because she likes my books? I''m just guessing."


    "Is that it?"


    "What else could it be, otherwise?"


    Putting on a stern expression, Murong Shi said, "Let me give you a suggestion. You''d best close your eyes when you''re going to lie in the future."


    <em>...Why is this person so scary?</em> Rubbing her nose, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Actually...I don''t quite understand her, either. There was one instance where she teased me. I panicked quite a bit at the time since I didn''t know what she was aiming at."


    "Heh" Murong Shi sneered.


    <em>Is the air conditioning set too low? Why do I suddenly feel cold? </em>While rubbing the goosebumps on her arms, Xu Chuanchuan fawningly smiled and said, "I started ignoring her after that."


    "To think you can get a sugar momma even from writing novels. What an envious profession," Murong Shi said with a lukewarm smile.


    "...I really don''t have anything to do with her."


    However, Murong Shi simply remained quiet and tossed her phone aside.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she managed to offend Murong Shi. Feeling a little frustrated, she pondered for a moment before asking, "Then...why exactly did you top up so much money?"


    "I saw other people giving you a lot of donations, so I thought to give you some as well. Didn''t you say the most expensive explosive costs a hundred yuan? If I don''t top up more, how would I have enough?" Murong Shi calmly said.


    Xu Chuanchuan was taken aback. "Couldn''t you just read?! Why must you donate?! I only receive half of all donations! This is a huge waste!"


    "Why didn''t you say so earlier?"


    "How would I know you would do such a thing?!"


    "What should I do now, then?"


    Holding her forehead, Xu Chuanchuan wailed, "There''s no way to refund the money you''ve topped up. You can only spend it on the tform."


    Murong Shi picked up her phone again and indiscriminately tapped the screen with her finger. Then, a momentter, she said, "Oh, there really are no refunds."


    "How can you be so foolish."


    Then, putting on a yful smile, Murong Shi said, "So, I still have to spend this money on you."


    Xu Chuanchuan caressed Murong Shi''s face and jokingly said, "Miss Tycoon, you truly are a rich fool."


    "I''m more than happy to spend it on my girlfriend, so hurry up and teach me how to send explosives."


    Left with no better options, Xu Chuanchuan ended up guiding Murong Shi through jjwxc''s donation process and watched as Murong Shi converted the 1,000 yuan into ten Deep-water Torpedoes. However, when she thought about how the publishing tform would be taking 500 yuan away, she couldn''t help but feel her heart aching.


    "You have fun by yourself. I''m going back to writing."


    Holding Xu Chuanchuan in ce, Murong Shi asked, "Weren''t you done already?"


    "I only finished half of today''s quota. I still need to write 5,000 more," Xu Chuanchuan said in a depressing tone.


    "Is there a need to work so hard?"


    "Where would I get my renovation funds from if I don''t work hard?"


    Murong Shi seated Xu Chuanchuan onto herp. Then, she said, "You don''t need to have the renovation funds to buy a house. Also, if it''s just the renovation funds, you can borrow it from me first."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan had thought of this problem before, but she was too embarrassed to ask Murong Shi about this. After all, they had only been together for a short time, and two hundred thousand yuan was by no means a small amount. Moreover, she didn''t wish to involve money in her rtionship with Murong Shi.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan did not expect Murong Shi to take the initiative to make such an offer. She was very shocked by this situation, and she couldn''t help but be at a loss for words.


    Then, Murong Shi continued, "Your family''s current house will remain old even if it is repainted. You''d be better off buying a new house as soon as possible and have them move in once the renovations arepleted. If you''re concerned, I''ll write up an IOU, and you can pay me back bit by bit every month. I won''t charge you any interest."


    Murong Shi spoke very seriously, and Xu Chuanchuan also listened very seriously.


    Unable to control her feelings, Xu Chuanchuan put one hand around Murong Shi''s neck and her other hand on Murong Shi''s face. Then, she affectionately said, "If you were a man, I would''ve married you on the spot."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    "You''ve been so kind to me that I don''t even know how I should thank you."


    Upon hearing these words, Murong Shi revealed a mischievous grin and said, "No need for thanks. Just pay me with your body."


    "Ah No, no, no! I still need to write!!!"


    When the next weekend arrived, Murong Shi drove Xu Chuanchuan to Xian City once more, and Xu Chuanchuan brought the money she had saved up and borrowed to discuss buying a new house with her parents.


    Father and Mother Xu were much easier to fool than Murong Shi. They did not doubt the origins of Xu Chuanchuan''s money. On the contrary, both of them were so delighted by the news that their smiles stretched from ear to ear, and they couldn''t wait to start looking at potential houses right away.


    As Xu Chuanchuan was in a hurry to have her family move into a better home, she decided to purchase a fully furnished house after discussing it with Murong Shi. They evenpleted all of the necessary formalities on the same day. Then, after leaving the matter of additional renovations to her parents, Xu Chuanchuan returned to S City together with Murong Shi.


    On their way back, Xu Chuanchuan asked to take the wheel and said, "Thank you for your hard work today."


    Stretching her back, Murong Shi said, "I was apanying my father- and mother-inw to look at houses, so it''s not tough at all."


    "Since when did my parents be your father- and mother-inw?" Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi in surprise.


    Taking advantage of Xu Chuanchuan''s briefpse in attention, Murong Shi hooked up her chin and said in delight, "Since the moment you said you wanted to marry me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Murong Shi startedughing happily, only to get interrupted by the ringing of her phone. When Murong Shi saw Fang Qin''s name disyed on the screen, she retracted her smile and answered the call.


    Without waiting for Murong Shi to speak, Fang Qin said, "Did you get together with Xu Chuanchuan?"


    Sitting upright, Murong Shi asked, "How did you find out?"


    "I met Little Yan when I came to your house. She told me you apanied Xu Chuanchuan back to her hometown, so I made a random guess. I didn''t think I would hit the mark. So much for being friends. You didn''t even tell me you got yourself a girlfriend."


    Murong Shi did not refute Fang Qin''s words. Chuckling, she said, "We still haven''t reached the city. We''ll treat you to a meal once we''re back."


    "Sure, I''ll wait for you two."


    Xu Chuanchuan overheard her name being mentioned, so she asked, "Who was it?"


    "Fang Qin," Murong Shi said as she stored her phone away. Then, she told Xu Chuanchuan about the matter of having a meal together with Fang Qin.


    Fang Qin could already be considered a close acquaintance, so Xu Chuanchuan didn''t find it awkward to share a meal with her together with Murong Shi. So, she readily agreed and nodded. Then, she suddenly thought of something and said, "Help me give my little sister a call. Ask if she''ll be streaming or doing something elseter. If she''s free, tell her that I''ll be bringing food to her."


    When Murong Shi unlocked her phone, she paused and said, "I don''t seem to have her number."


    "Use mine, then. The password is 6688."


    Murong Shi pulled out Xu Chuanchuan''s phone from her handbag and entered the password. However, when she opened the address book, she identally clicked on the call log.


    "Who''s Little Jealous Bug?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped. Then, in a panic, she stammered, "That... That''s..."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could exin, Murong Shi had already clicked on the name to inspect its details. When she saw the familiar string of numbers, her eyes narrowed.


    "Am I Little Jealous Bug?"


    "..." <em>Crap.</em>

 Chapter 64: Pt.1

    Chapter 64: Pt.1


    Fang Qin was responsible for choosing their dinner venue. As soon as Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan entered the restaurant, they heard someone shouting at them, "Over here! Over here!"


    Following the voice, Xu Chuanchuan found Little Yan looking in their direction, smiling like a flower. So, the two of them walked over hand in hand.


    "Hi, Chuanchuan, long time no see," Fang Qin greeted.


    "Long time no see," Xu Chuanchuan replied. Then, she and Murong Shi took their seats.


    Resting her cheeks on her hands, Fang Qin looked at the two people across her with interest. Then, she said, "What an enviable pair."


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head in embarrassment when she heard thisment.


    Then, Fang Qin continued, "Chuanchuan, how can you be so blind as to fall for her?"


    "What did you say?" Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly raised her head.


    Putting on a sympathetic look, Fang Qin said, "She''s neither considerate nor gentle. She also has a strong desire for control. How can you stand her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Uh..."


    "Fang Qin, mind your words," Murong Shi said in a chilly voice.


    However, Fang Qin turned a deaf ear to Murong Shi''s warning. She even gave Murong Shi a provocative look before grabbing Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, which was resting on the table, and said, "Rather than her, you might as well be with me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." Can someone tell me what''s going on?


    Their hands remained in contact for less than a second as Murong Shi quickly snatched back Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and held onto it tightly.


    Fang Qin clicked her tongue. Then, she continued adding fuel to the fire, saying, "See? She is such a domineering person."


    "..." Afraid of causing a war, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said, "Let''s order the food first."


    Little Yan epted the menu Xu Chuanchuan offered her. However, after flipping through it for a moment, she said, "I don''t know what you all like."


    "Just order whatever''s the most expensive. Your cousin isn''t short of money, in any case," Fang Qin instigated.


    "I guess you''re right," Little Yan said with a joyful smile.


    Murong Shi did not make anyments about this. However, herplexion didn''t look particrly good. Of course, it wasn''t because of Fang Qin.


    "I need to use the washroom," Xu Chuanchuan said as she carefully tried to remove her hand from Murong Shi''s hold.


    "Let''s go together," Murong Shi said, tightening her grip over Xu Chuanchuan''s hand. Then, she stood up and started making her way to the washroom with Xu Chuanchuan in tow.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to keep up with Murong Shi.


    By the time they came out of the washroom, the appetizers had already been served. Seeing that there was pickled radish on the table, Xu Chuanchuan quickly picked up a piece with her chopsticks and took a bite out of it.


    The radish was crunchy, sour, and refreshing. It also tasted good.


    While Xu Chuanchuan enjoyed the radish, she noticed Murong Shi staring at her out of the corner of her eyes. So, she habitually passed the remaining half of her radish to Murong Shi.


    "This one tastes good."


    Murong Shi enveloped the pickled radish with her mouth and slowly chewed through it. After swallowing, she said, "Not bad."


    Fang Qin just so happened to have caught this scene. Snorting withughter, she teasingly said, "I say, Chuanchuan, Murong has her own hands and feet. She isn''t disabled, so why are you feeding her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan, who was ready to feed Murong Shi another piece of pickled radish, stopped her actions when she heard Fang Qin''sment.


    "Ignore her. She''s just jealous," Murong Shi nonchntly said.


    After saying so, Murong Shi leaned forward and snatched away the pickled radish in Xu Chuanchuan''s chopsticks with her mouth.


    After her attempts to poke fun at Murong Shi were met with consecutive failures, Fang Qin retracted her yful mood and said, "Alright, then. It turns out that you two share a really good rtionship."


    After ying the role of spectator for some time, Little Yan covered her mouth and smiled, saying, "It''s more than just good. The two of them would stick to each other whenever they had free time."


    "ording to your cousin''s personality, she is already holding back if she hasn''t tied Chuanchuan to her waist yet," Fang Qin quipped.


    Xu Chuanchuan turned as red as a tomato as she listened to the back and forth between Fang Qin and Little Yan.


    In contrast, Murong Shi didn''t show too much of a reaction. She neither got angry or annoyed. Instead, she tly said, "I suddenly think it''ll be better if we split the bill for this meal."


    "I don''t have money!" Little Yan was the first to protest.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin patted Little Yan''s shoulder and confidently said, "No problem. We''ll just run away once we''re done eating."


    Giving Fang Qin a high-five, Little Yan said, "Okay!"


    Murong Shi was momentarily rendered speechless by the two across the table. Subsequently, she and Xu Chuanchuan finished the te of pickled radish on the table.


    "It''s delicious," Xu Chuanchuan said with a longing look.


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s expression, Murong Shi called for the waiter and ordered two more portions of pickled radishes; one to eat now and one to take home.


    A hint of jealousy shed in Fang Qin''s eyes when she saw this scene. Then, she asked the person sitting next to her, "Are we extras here?"


    Little Yan nodded.


    "They''re pretending as if we don''t exist. What do you think we should do?" Fang Qin asked.


    Puffing up her cheeks, Little Yan pitifully said, "They''ve been acting like this every day in front of me. I''m already used to the torture by now."


    Then, Fang Qin let out a long sigh and said, "I shouldn''t have greeded for this meal if I knew this was going to happen."


    "It''s okay, I''m here with you. We''ll focus on eating while they focus on flirting," Little Yan said with a sweet smile.


    In the meantime, Xu Chuanchuan had blushed up to her ears because of Fang Qin and Little Yan''s conversation. Then, she gently jabbed Murong Shi with her elbow, signaling her to hold back on the flirting.


    However, Murong Shi simply pushed down Xu Chuanchuan''s elbow and continued serving food into Xu Chuanchuan''s mouth. Then, she offhandedly said, "Find one for yourself if you can''t take it."


    These words were meant for Fang Qin.


    After casually taking a bite of food, Fang Qin responded, "You make it sound so easy. Introduce someone to me, then."


    "Looks like you''ve already gotten over it?"


    Although Murong Shi''s words sounded confusing and iprehensible to others, Fang Qin understood what she meant. Then, revealing a bitter smile, Fang Qin said, "It''s been so long already. What else can I do but get over it?"


    Murong Shi took a long look at Fang Qin when she heard her friend''s words. Then, she put on a serious expression and said, "If you meant what you said, you could have Chuanchuan introduce you to someone."


    Me?" Xu Chuanchuan was surprised at having her name mentioned out of the blue.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin''s eyes lit up as she asked, "Chuanchuan, are you going to introduce a girlfriend to me?"


    "But most of the people I know are already married," Xu Chuanchuan said with a puzzled look. She failed to understand what Murong Shi was getting at. Then, she suddenly widened her eyes and eximed, "Y-Y-You''re not talking about my little sister, right?!"


    The corners of Murong Shi''s lips twitched. Then, she rified, "I''m talking about Tang Xin."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan gaped in shock.


    Murong Shi stuffed some food into Xu Chuanchuan while thetter had her mouth open. Then, she said, "She should be single right now, right?"


    It was indeed true that Ange was a lesbian and that she was currently single. However, Xu Chuanchuan never thought Murong Shi would want to introduce Ange to Fang Qin.


    Xu Chuanchuan hardly chewed the food before sending it down her gullet. Then, she lowered her voice and asked, "Isn''t this inappropriate?"


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi responded with a question, "How is it inappropriate?"


    "Ange never asked for me to introduce her to someone! It''ll be awkward if I arbitrarily decide to do so!"


    Suddenly, Murong Shi stabbed her chopsticks onto a piece of pickled radish, breaking it. Then, she said, "Rather than awkward, aren''t you just reluctant to let someone else take her?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt that "Little Jealous Bug" should be changed to "Big Jealous Bug" in the future.


    Without receiving Ange''s approval, Xu Chuanchuan felt that it would be inappropriate to make any promises. So, the matter of introducing Fang Qin to a new girlfriend faded out of their conversation quickly.


    When they were leaving the restaurant, Murong Shi deliberately fell behind and secretly pulled Murong Shi aside. Then, she said, "Ange and I are best friends. Can you stop targeting her all the time in the future?"


    In response, Murong Shi righteously said, "Since when have I targeted her? If I am trying to do so, why would I introduce Fang Qin to her?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was silenced.


    "Frankly speaking, I don''t hate her. At the very least, I think she is quite good in one aspect."


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had heard Murong Shi praising Ange. Unable to help her joy, she hurriedly asked, "Which aspect is it?"


    <em>She writes erotica quite well.</em>


    Murong Shi quietly looked at Xu Chuanchuan for a moment but said nothing in the end.


    After returning home, Xu Chuanchuan messaged Ange for a joint writing session.


    Ange: "Strange. Before you came to find me, my writing speed hit a record low. I didn''t manage to write even a thousand words in an hour. I was also constantly sneezing. I wonder who is missing me so much?"


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not reply because of her guilty conscience. When she recalled Murong Shi''s suggestion during dinner, she said: "Didn''t you say you want to fall in love before? It''s like this: Murong has a girlfriend with a good personality. I think you two would be a good match."


    Ange: "Are you kidding me, Tang''er? Are you switching careers and bing a matchmaker now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m worried about you. o()o"


    Ange: "I''m in the Outward Appearance Association. I won''t bite if she doesn''t look good."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "She is gorgeous! Would you like to see some photos? But I don''t have any with me right now. Hold on a second; I''ll go ask Murong for some."


    Ange: "Come back,e back."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What''s wrong?"


    Ange: "Forget it. Long-distance rtionships are unreliable. I''ll continue to be single."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t you want to give it a try?"


    Ange: "I don''t have the spare time. Anyways, let''s start writing!"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think Ange would react so coldly. However, forced love would notst, so she decided not to persist on the matter.


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan finished her daily writing, more than two hours had gone by already.


    Because Murong Shi had some questions she needed to consult with her father, Sun An, they had separated after dinner. After ending her writing session, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if her body had been hollowed out. Grabbing her phone, she called Murong Shi and talked through the phone for a while. Before she knew it, half an hour had gone by already.


    "It''s gettingte. Go wash up and rest," Murong Shi said.


    "Okay, I''ll go now."


    Xu Chuanchuan moved her stiff neck around after ending the call. When she left her room, she saw Little Yan lying on the sofa. Currently, the girl was eating a piece of cake while fiddling with her phone.


    "Are you watching Xiangxiang''s stream?" Xu Chuanchuan casually asked.


    When Little Yan saw Xu Chuanchuan walking over, she said, "Are you done with work? Also, I''m not watching the stream. Something happened on Xiangxiang''s side, and she and her senior might not be able to continue streaming anymore. I''m currently consoling her over this."


    "What happened?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, a look of worry appearing on her face.


    Sitting up, Little Yan said, "Xiangxiang herself is fine. It''s her streaming channel that has encountered a problem."


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What do you mean?"


    "I don''t understand it very well, either. Why don''t you ask her yourself?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan took Little Yan''s phone, tapped on Xu Xiangxiang''s WeChat avatar, and sent her little sister a video call request.

 Chapter 64: Pt.2

    Chapter 64: Pt.2


    Several seconds after Xu Chuanchuan sent her little sister a video call request on WeChat, Xu Xiangxiang''s despondent face appeared on the screen. When Xu Xiangxiang realized that the caller was her elder sister, she asked in surprise, "Sis? Why is it you?"


    "Little Yan said you stopped streaming. What happened?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, getting straight to the point.


    Xu Xiangxiang gritted her teeth and revealed a bitter expression at the mention of this topic. Then, she hatefully said, "It''s because of the contract we signed with that shitty association!


    "We didn''t know better when we signed it, but it turns out that the association is only giving us a small cut of the money we earned. We went to talk about it with them when we found out, but they refused to acknowledge what they did. I couldn''t stomach this hit, so I cursed at them on stream. Afterward, they sealed both of our live stream channels. Arghhh!! This is infuriating!"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t understand much about the topic, so she didn''t know how to console her little sister. Instead, she suggested, "If streaming is no longer an option, how about I introduce you to another part-time job?"


    Unwilling to submit, Xu Xiangxiang said, "How can other part-time jobs be as lucrative as streaming? I already made 5,000 yuan just from streaming for half a month."


    "Xiangxiang, you''re amazing!" Little Yan pped and cheered.


    However, Xu Xiangxiang was currently in a burnt-out state, so she couldn''t bring herself to feel happy even after hearing the praise. Then, she impatiently said, "I''ll talk to youter. I''m going to talk to my senior and see if we have any other options."


    Xu Xiangxiang then disconnected the call without another word.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel a little frustrated that she couldn''t help her little sister when thetter had encountered a problem. Even while showering, her mind was still stuck on this matter.


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan recalled Murong Shi mentioning that Jiang Shaohua and his friends had invested in the broadcasting tform Xu Xiangxiang currently used. If Jiang Shaohua was willing to help, wouldn''t this problem be quickly resolved?


    With such thoughts in mind, Xu Chuanchuan promptly told Murong Shi of this matter after returning to her room.


    Several minutester, Murong Shi said, "I''ll talk about it with Jiang Shaohua. Rest assured, he''ll solve it."


    Like Murong Shi had said, Xu Xiangxiang could resume streaming like usual the next day. Out of happiness, she eagerly contacted Xu Chuanchuan after she ended her stream, saying, "Big Sis Shishi is amazing! I love her so much! Sis, make sure to thank her for me properly!"


    "Jiang Shaohua is the one who helped you this time," Xu Chuanchuan corrected.


    "I know, I know. Jiang Shaohua forcibly terminated my contract with that shitty association, and he is now my new boss."


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised by this news.


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang cheerfully continued, "They invited me into their WeChat group yesterday. After listening to what they told me, I realized just how rich this Young Master Jiang is."


    Xu Chuanchuan remained silent as she watched the frustrated look on Xu Xiangxiang''s face.


    "Sis, did you know? That Young Master Jiang reserved an entire seaside vi for the streamers under his banner! Everyone can eat and stay there for free! You''ll even get a personal chauffeur to send you to drive you around! Heavens, it''s like receiving a celebrity''s treatment! I''m so envious! I want to go there!"


    Xu Chuanchuan started to feel annoyed by her little sister''s non-stop chattering. Then, she firmly said, "You stay where you are. You''re not allowed to go anywhere."


    Refusing to give up, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I never said I was going to move into the ce. I''m just curious to see what it looks like. If you''re worried, you can go there with me."


    "I''m busy," Xu Chuanchuan refused.


    "You don''t even have work on weekends," Xu Xiangxiangined.


    "I''m busy, and that''s that," Xu Chuanchuan repeated without hesitation. Her weekends were fully booked now. She had to focus on writing during the day and go on dates with Murong Shi at night.


    "I''ll go by myself, then."


    "Yourself?"


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang sorrowfully said, "That''s right. I originally nned to bring my senior with me, but she''s depressed right now because Young Master Jiang didn''t sign a contract with her. She''s even ignoring me now."


    "Why didn''t Jiang Shaohua contract her as well?"


    "Young Master Jiang says her body isn''t good enough, and her dancesck sexiness. He says she isn''t worth the investment."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>What is this nonsense!?</em>


    With such a licentious boss, there was no way Xu Chuanchuan could feel at ease letting Xu Xiangxiang visit that seaside vi.


    So, Xu Chuanchuan adamantly refused Xu Xiangxiang''s requests, and neither of the two sisters was willing topromise.


    Eventually, Xu Xiangxiang cursed at Xu Chuanchuan for being unreasonable and hung up the call angrily.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think she was unreasonable as she was purely concerned over her little sister''s well-being. Afterward, she brought up this matter with Murong Shi.


    After listening to Xu Chuanchuan''s story, Murong Shi said, "Jiang Shaohua has once told me about the seaside studio he and his friends had set up. Looking at the pictures he shared on his social media, that ce indeed looks beautiful. And with the excellent benefits he is offering, it isn''t strange for Xiangxiang to get tempted. She is, after all, just a little girl. Also, she might just be thinking of looking around."


    "I''m worried that she''ll sumb to temptation and have some stupid thoughts. Moreover, that ce houses both men and women. I can''t feel at ease letting her go there."


    "With Xiangxiang''s personality, the more you suppress her, the more rebellious she bes," Murong Shi said. Then, she moved Xu Chuanchuan''s bangs aside and said, "If she wants to go there, we might as well apany her. Just think of it as a rxing trip."


    Their seaside trip was determined just like that, and the date of their visit was set for the uing weekend.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought the only ones going on this trip would be herself, Murong Shi, and Xu Xiangxiang. However, on the day of the trip, she found that Little Yan and Fang Qin were joining in on the fun as well.


    When Little Yan heard from Xu Xiangxiang about the trip, she pestered Murong Shi to bring her along. Moreover, she gave a justifiable reason, saying, "Xiangxiang doesn''t know about you two yet. If you have me around, I can help you divert her attention. That way, wouldn''t you two have more time to yourselves?"


    This reason was one that Murong Shi couldn''t deny.


    As for Fang Qing


    "Jiang Shaohua invited me," Fang Qin said.


    In reality, Jiang Shaohua had invited a lot more people than just Fang Qin.


    To showcase the broadcastingpany he had just established, Jiang Shaohua had invited everyone on his WeChat contact list for a visit. So, when Xu Chuanchuan''s group arrived in the area, all of the nearby hotels were already fully booked.


    After failing to get a hotel room, Fang Qin immediately gave Jiang Shaohua a call and cursed, "Jiang Shaohua, you bastard! Murong and I came to celebrate your business''s opening, but we don''t even have a ce to stay right now! What do you have to say for this?!"


    There was a difference between friends andckeys. Jiang Shaohua dared not neglect Murong Shi and Fang Qin, the two people he had grown up with. Around ten minutes after the call, Jiang Shaohua drove over to receive them personally.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan''s group of five arrived at the seaside vi.


    Then, Jiang Shaohua generously said, "Forget the hotel; just stay at my ce. I''ll have someone tidy up five rooms for you right away."


    "Four is enough," Murong Shi corrected.


    "Three is enough; I''ll share a room with Little Yan," Xu Xiangxiang interjected.


    Left alone at a side, Fang Qin bitterly said, "I see how it is. All of you came with partners."


    Then, Jiang Shaohua blew Fang Qin a kiss and shamelessly said, "If you feel lonely, I can apany you tonight."


    In response, Fang Qin smiled and said in a sinister tone, "I don''t like men. Castrate yourself first, then talk to me."


    Jiang Shaohua: "..."


    Despite having a glib tongue, Jiang Shaohua conducted himself properly when instructing his subordinates. In no time at all, Jiang Shaohua''s subordinates prepared threerge rooms.


    As Jiang Shaohua still had other things he needed to do, he had one of the streamers under him guide Xu Chuanchuan''s group to their rooms. Before leaving, he said, "The rooms here are massive andfortable. I guarantee that they will be to your satisfaction. If any problems arise, you can give me a call at any time."


    Just like Jiang Shaohua said, the rooms were indeed massive. Even the bed was huge. The only problem was that the soundproofing was a bit poor.


    Xu Chuanchuan naturally shared a room with Murong Shi. And because it started to drizzle in the evening, they had no choice but to stay in the vi.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan came out of the shower, loud music suddenly startled her. Then, she asked, "What''s going on?"


    The balcony of their room was connected with the two rooms adjacent to theirs. Murong Shi currently stood at the junction of the balcony and the living room. Pointing at both sides, she said, "Two beauties are doing a dancing stream."


    "Don''t tell me they''re going to be making noise all night long?"


    "Who knows?" Murong Shi said. Then, she pulled out her phone to give Jiang Shaohua a call to ask about the situation.


    However, before Murong Shi had even unlocked her phone, Jiang Shaohua took the initiative to call her and said, "I forgot to tell you, but your neighbors might be a little noisy. But I already told them to stop streaming by midnight, so please only go to sleep after twelve."


    Murong Shi put down the phone with a frown on her face.


    While drying her hair with a towel, Xu Chuanchuan curiously asked, "What kind of dance are they dancing?"


    After taking a nce, Murong Shi said, "Just a bunch of nonsense."


    "Really? Let me see," Xu Chuanchuan said as she bounced over to the balcony. Then, she craned her neck and peeked into the neighboring rooms.


    The reason why it was so noisy was that these streamers were currently ying music using external speakers. After looking at both sides, Xu Chuanchuan found that the woman in the room to their right was dancing a more sensual dance.


    The female streamer was gorgeous, and she had a waist so thin that it seemed that it would snap at the slightest breeze. Her gestures were also full of amorous feelings, and her expression was one of ecstasy. She would also asionally tug at her shoulder straps and pull on her shirt cor, revealing her tremendous assets to her viewers. Let alone men, even a woman like Xu Chuanchuan found her legs going limp.


    Xu Chuanchuan gradually fell into a daze as she stared at the woman.


    When Xu Chuanchuan felt something starting to rise within her, her vision suddenly darkened as someone covered her eyes, and she subconsciously let out a cry.


    The next second, a seductive voice pierced her eardrums, "Is it that interesting to watch? Why don''t I perform a dance for you as well?"


    The sea breeze gently struck Xu Chuanchuan''s lips, carrying with it some salty rainwater. When Xu Chuanchuan licked her lips to get rid of the rainwater, she suddenly realized that her throat was slightly parched.


    While secretly swallowing some saliva, Xu Chuanchuan removed the hand that was blocking her vision. Then, she looked up at Murong Shi and asked, "You even know how to dance?"


    "I assure you it''ll be better than theirs," Murong Shi said as she bent down slightly and gently bit on Xu Chuanchuan''s sensitive ear. Then, in a muted voice, she asked, "Do you know which dance I''m most proficient at?"


    Xu Chuanchuan tensed up her body as if jolted by electricity, and she mechanically shook her head.


    Then, Murong Shi stopped talking, straightened her back, and started stripping.


    OMG!

 Chapter 65: Pt.1

    Chapter 65: Pt.1


    The weather at night was cool and refreshing because of the rain. Murong Shi wore a white shirt, and she unbuttoned the buttons one by one in a slow fashion. Although her expression was not as enchanting as the two dancing female streamers next door, her dark and slender eyes were capable of seducing people''s souls.


    Xu Chuanchuan had her eyes glued to Murong Shi the entire time. However, When Murong Shi undid the third button and exposed a beige-colored camisole, a hint of disappointment shed in Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes.


    Murong Shi revealed a faint smile when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. Then, she said, "No rushing. This has to be done slowly."


    "You''re really going to dance?!"


    "Didn''t you want to see? I doubt I look any worse than those two beauties, right? Come."


    <em>Come where?</em>


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could snap out of her daze, Murong Shi had already removed her outer clothing and casually dropped it to the floor.


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously followed the falling shirt with her eyes. Then, she said, "The floor is dirty."


    When Xu Chuanchuan tried to crouch down and pick up the shirt, Murong Shi held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist and dragged the shorter woman toward her. Then, she said, "Eyes on me. Am I <em>that </emcking in charm?"


    It was no exaggeration to say that Murong Shi was the most alluring woman Xu Chuanchuan had ever met in real life. Even Ange, someone cheap on praises, couldn''t help but sing praises of Murong Shi''s beauty. So, how could such a person possiblyck charm?


    It wasn''t that Xu Chuanchuan didn''t want to look at Murong Shi. Instead, it was because she dared not do so. As soon as she saw Murong Shi''s face, particrly those beautiful eyes, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if her soul was being lured away.


    After tentatively cing her hands on Murong Shi''s bare shoulders, Xu Chuanchuan looked up and stared at Murong Shi''s pale and thin lips. Then, she drylyughed and said, "Dance if you want to; I promise to enjoy it. But you have to let me go first."


    As if cating a cat, Murong Shi gently held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and said, "It''ll be more enjoyable for two people to dance together."


    "But I don''t know how to dance?"


    "It''s alright. I''ll teach you," Murong Shi said as she began undressing Xu Chuanchuan.


    "Ah" Xu Chuanchuan''s face turned pale with fright, and she desperately held onto her shirt. "I''m not wearing any extra clothing underneath!"


    These words ended up stirring Murong Shi''s interest. "Is that so? Let me take a look."


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered when she felt two cold hands flexibly intruding into her T-shirt from below. If she stopped paying attention for even a moment, she was certain Murong Shi would flip her shirt.


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to have her body exposed, she noticed lighting through the balcony. Immediately, she shouted, "Wait!"


    "Hm?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan looked across Murong Shi''s shoulder and stared at the rain outside, asking, "There won''t be anyone peeping on us, right?"


    Murong Shi hadpletely forgotten about such a possibility because of all the fun. Immediately, she let go of Xu Chuanchuan and went to close the ss doors.


    "The curtains as well," Xu Chuanchuan reminded.


    Murong Shi then closed the curtains.


    Taking advantage of this moment, Xu Chuanchuan quickly picked up the shirt on the floor and indiscriminately wrapped it around her body. Then, she turned around and fled.


    When Murong Shi heard the movement, she turned around and frowned, asking, "Where are you going thiste at night?"


    Without even turning around, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s stuffy inside! I''m going out for some air!"


    After opening the door, Xu Chuanchuan promptly broke into a dash, only to nearly crash into the person outside the door.


    Fang Qin reacted swiftly and caught Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she asked, "What happened?"


    After regaining her bearing, Xu Chuanchuan shook her head and said, "I''m sorry. Did it hurt you?"


    "I''m fine. Why are you dressed like this?"


    Xu Chuanchuan let out an awkwardugh. Then, after using the two sleeves to tie a knot in front of her chest, she arbitrarily changed the topic and asked, "Are you here to look for Murong?"


    Fang Qin didn''t probe further into the matter as she said, "I''m here to look for you two. I''m feeling a little hungry, so I wanted to see if you two wanted to go have some supper together."


    "I already showered."


    "You''re ready to sleep already?" Fang Qin asked in surprise. Then, she revealed a meaningful smile as she asked in a hushed tone, "Am I interrupting something?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up. Then, she snuck a nce behind her. Coincidentally, she saw Murong Shi leisurely walking over, and she couldn''t help but panic.


    Before she could get a closer look at Murong Shi''s current expression, Xu Chuanchuan turned back to Fang Qin and rapidly said, "No, no. The room''s too noisy. I''ll help you ask if my little sister and Little Yan want to join you for supper."


    When Murong Shi arrived at the door and saw Xu Chuanchuan''s back disappearing into the distance, she let out a quiet sigh.


    "Chuanchuan seems to be afraid of you. What''s going on?" Fang Qin asked with interest.


    Retracting her gaze from Xu Chuanchuan''s back, Murong Shi said, "It''s nothing. I was just messing with her."


    Fang Qin thoughtfully looked at Murong Shi''s overly refreshing attire. Then, she said, "I bet you were trying to eat her."


    Murong Shi rolled her eyes at her friend. Then, she asked, "Why did youe knocking on my door at such ate hour?"


    "The door opened on its own before I even knocked. Wanna go have some supper together?"


    "No."


    "Wah, what a terrible attitude," Fang Qin said, taking a step back. "Since neither of you two wants to eat, I''ll be taking my leave."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi called out to Fang Qin, "I have something to ask you. Let''s talk inside."


    "What''s with the mystery?" Fang Qin followed Murong Shi into the room and watched as Murong Shi carefully locked the door.


    Murong Shi faced her back against the door and hesitated to speak.


    After some time passed, Fang Qin grew impatient and urged, "Well? Out with it!"


    Murong Shi hesitated for a while longer before firming her heart and saying, "She''s been constantly refusing to let me touch her."


    Murong Shi had spoken quite obscurely, so Fang Qin wasn''t sure if she interpreted Murong Shi''s correctly. "You mean...you two aren''t getting along in <em>that </em>aspect?"


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry about this situation. Gritting her teeth, she begrudgingly said, "We''ve never even done it before."


    "...How long have you two been together?"


    After a brief silence, Murong Shi said, "Less than two months."


    "Have you kissed?"


    "Is there even a need to ask?"


    Widening her eyes, Fang Qin said, "You are already sharing the same bed, yet you two still haven''t done it? I refuse to believe you can endure it."


    In response, Murong Shi massaged her temples and said, "I already said it at the beginning. The problem lies on her side, not mine. She''s afraid of me touching her."


    "Are you sure she''s afraid of you and not because of the pain?"


    Murong Shi paused for a moment. Then, she said, "I don''t know. I never asked her about it."


    Fang Qin started biting on her fingernail because of her hunger. While chewing, she pondered and said, "Most women are afraid of their first time. It''s a normal urrence. So long as there is sufficient forey and you make sure she gradually rxes, everything should be fine.


    "But if she''s afraid of you and doesn''t want to do it with youthen this is a serious problem. She might not even like you to begin with."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    "However, looking at Chuanchuan''s eyes, I can tell she likes you very much. So, I think her rejection of you is definitely because of the first reason." After impatiently patting Murong Shi on the shoulders, Fang Qin said, "Take your time educating her."


    Murong Shi frowned and fell into deep thought.


    "The problem is, do you know how to do that? You are, after all, a 26-year-old virgin."


    "Scram."


    When Fang Qin went to knock on the door of Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang''s room, the three people inside were having a merry conversation.


    Before Fang Qin could even pose her question, Xu Xiangxiang took the initiative and said, "Little Yan and I will go have supper with you, Big Sis Fang Qin!"


    "Awesome. Let''s go, then. My treat."


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and said, "You three go ahead. I won''t be going."


    "Do you want us to bring something back for you?" Fang Qin asked.


    "No need."


    "You should quickly return this shirt to Murong, lest she catches a cold tomorrow," Fang Qin said as she nced at the shirt wrapped around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist. Then, before leaving, she leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and whispered, "We won''t be disturbing you two from this point forward, so please feel free to enjoy your private time together."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    After the others left, Xu Chuanchuan returned to her room.


    The room''s door remained open just like the time Xu Chuanchuan ran away. Murong Shi still wore her camisole only, and she casually leaned against the door as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan walking back to the room.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt both guilty and anxious. She also dared not look Murong Shi in the eye. However, as she couldn''t bear the silence, she said, "Little Yan and Chuanchuan are staying next to singers, so it''s also noisy over at their ce. Though, their situation is much better than ours."


    Murong Shi did not utter a word in response. Instead, she continued staring at Xu Chuanchuan, her eyes portraying none of her thoughts. Then, she suddenly extended a hand toward the shorter woman.


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously stepped back, but Murong Shi stopped her by holding onto the two sleeves hanging in front of her chest.


    After dragging Xu Chuanchuan into the room and closing the door, Murong Shi unraveled the two sleeves and took back her T-shirt. Then, she casually tossed the T-shirt onto the nearby sofa and expressionlessly said, "The shirt already got dirty, so why did you put it on?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t discern Murong Shi''s thoughts, so she only responded with a fawning smile.


    "Go change your clothes."


    "Why?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, confused.


    "I know you want to have supper as well. Let''s go; I''ll go with you."


    The rain had stopped without anyone''s notice. After Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi changed into their outdoor clothing and left the vi, they found Fang Qin and the others having an open-air barbecue by the beach.


    With their location near the ocean, most of the food they ate naturally consisted of seafood. By virtue of their tardiness, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi were able to start eating as soon as they arrived.


    Although Murong Shi didn''t bring up a word about the strip dance and Xu Chuanchuan''s abrupt escape before, Xu Chuanchuan still felt rather guilty about it. So, knowing that Murong Shi liked eating prawns and shrimps, Xu Chuanchuan secretly shelled a grilled shrimp and fed it to Murong Shi.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi sent Xu Chuanchuan a nce before silently epting the gesture.


    After Xu Chuanchuan fed Murong Shi several times, Xu Xiangxiang, who noticed the situation, yelled out, "Am I seeing things?! Sis, you''re actually feeding Big Sis Shishi!!!"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hand trembled, and she inadvertently dropped the half-shelled shrimp onto the sandy beach. Then, pretending to be calm, she picked up another shrimp and said, "I can feed you as well."


    Xu Xiangxiang felt that the scene just now looked very strange. However, before she could discern any further information, Xu Chuanchuan had stuffed a grilled shrimp into her mouth. A momentter, though, Xu Xiangxiang spat out the shrimp and said, "You didn''t shell it!"


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin and Little Yan felt a little suffocated as they watched this scene.


    Then, poking fun at Xu Xiangxiang, Fang Qin said, "With how your elder sister treats you, Xiangxiang, I''m afraid you might be adopted."


    "I think so as well," Xu Xiangxiang agreed. Fortunately, she had a crass personality, so she shelled the shrimp she spat out and ate it again.


    After getting discovered, Xu Chuanchuan held back a little. Instead of feeding Murong Shi directly, she chose a few plump shrimps and ced them into Murong Shi''s bowl. Then, she heard Little Yan saying, "Chuanchuan, I want a shrimp, too."


    "Here''s one, then."


    Then, Little Yan spread out her oily hands and coquettishly said, "Peel it for me, please?"


    "Fine, fine, fine, I''ll shell it for you," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she shelled the shrimp and stuffed it into Little Yan''s mouth.


    Xu Xiangxiang immediately grew upset over the unfair treatment. "I want a shelled one also!"


    Helpless, Xu Chuanchuan gave a shelled shrimp to Xu Xiangxiang as well.


    "Me too," Fang Qin said.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."

 Chapter 65: Pt.2

    Chapter 65: Pt.2


    After returning home from supper, Xu Chuanchuan took another shower to get rid of the smell of barbecue.


    Murong Shi spoke very little tonight, and Xu Chuanchuan worried that she had angered the other party. And because of her anxiety, she didn''t write a single word for her book even though she nned to do so after returning to the room.


    The two women next door were still hosting their respective live streams. However, the noise became more bearable after shutting the balcony door. In contrast, the sound of the hairdryer running as Xu Chuanchuan absentmindedly dried her hair was much noisier.


    Suddenly, someone snatched the hairdryer out of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand. When Xu Chuanchuan looked up and saw Murong Shi, she smiled and said, "That''s fast of you."


    "Mhm," Murong Shi lightly responded before using the hairdryer to dry her hair.


    Neither of them spoke for a time, and an awkward atmosphere ensued.


    When Murong Shi put down the hairdryer and gentlybed her hair with her fingers, Xu Chuanchuan finally stopped hesitating and said, "I''m sorry."


    "What are you sorry for?" Murong Shi asked with a casual expression.


    Biting her lower lip, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I shouldn''t have run away when you were going to dance for me. It was incredibly rude of me to do so."


    Murong Shi''s lips curled slightly, barely forming a smile as she said, "It''s fine. Actually, I lied. I don''t know how to dance at all."


    <em>Then why did you start stripping</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought, though she dared not bring up this topic.


    Then, Murong Shi continued, "If you mind it, I can go sleep with Fang Qin tonight."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped at Murong Shi''s words. Then, she asked, "Why are you going to sleep with Fang Qin?"


    Murong Shi gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s cheek with the back of her hand. Then, she said, "I worry that you dare not go to sleep with me beside you."


    "Why would you think that? We''ve slept together several times already," Xu Chuanchuan said with a stunned look on her face.


    Even though Murong Shi''s voice and expression were calm, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but panic because of her words.


    <em>She''s not getting angry orining. What''s going on with her? </em>Then, Xu Chuanchuan held onto Murong Shi''s hand and hurriedly added, "I don''t mind sleeping together. Such arge bed should fit the two of us without a problem. Also, this is a foreign ce. I''m a little scared to sleep here all by myself"


    If Murong Shi went to look for Fang Qin, Fang Qin would definitely assume that the two of them had gotten into a fight. However, in reality, their rtionship was very peaceful, so peaceful that Xu Chuanchuan felt that she had made a mistake. So, she could only hold onto Murong Shi''s hand tightly and plead for forgiveness with pitiful eyes.


    How could Murong Shi possibly resist the assault of such eyes? After letting out a heavy sigh, Murong Shi said, "Alright, then. I won''t go."


    Their neighbors still weren''t done making noise, and neither of them felt sleepy, so they ended up having an aimless conversation on the bed.


    "Jiang Shaohua says there''s going to be a concert tomorrow afternoon. All of theirpany''s streamers will be going on stage. Do you want to go watch it?"


    "I haven''t written a single word today, so I''m thinking of focusing on writing tomorrow."


    "Do you want me to apany you, then?"


    "You go with them. Otherwise, this trip is going to go to waste," Xu Chuanchuan replied without thinking. Then, she smiled and continued, "Just bring back something good to eat for me."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help but chuckle. Then, while caressing Xu Chuanchuan''s soft hair, she said, "You little glutton."


    Xu Chuanchuan stuck out her tongue and made a yful face. In response, Murong Shi leaned forward and pushed down Xu Chuanchuan with her lips.


    "..."


    Their kiss this time was different than usual. It was neither moving nor deep. Instead, it could only be considered a light peck.


    Xu Chuanchuan was initially nervous about this situation. However, when she gradually tried to respond to Murong Shi''s kiss, Murong Shi unexpectedly bit her tongue.


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped at the sudden pain, and the mood she got into with great pains disappeared without a trace.


    Immediately afterward, Murong Shi "identally" bit Xu Chuanchuan''s lower lip. Unable to focus, Xu Chuanchuan opened her eyes and pushed against the person pressed on top of her body.


    Murong Shi gradually opened her eyes. Then, just as their lips were about to separate, she bit down on Xu Chuanchuan''s lower lip once more.


    Xu Chuanchuan finally realized that Murong Shi was doing this on purpose, so she asked with an aggrieved look on her face, "Why do you keep biting me?"


    Murong Shi held Xu Chuanchuan''s face with one hand and gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s swollen lower lip with her thumb. Then, she responded with a question, "Are you afraid of pain?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes watered, and she ttened her mouth.


    "I didn''t use much strength just now."


    "..."


    Then, Murong Shi leaned in with her lips and said, "I''ll let you bite me back."


    "I don''t want to," Xu Chuanchuan tly refused. With their kiss turning into an exchange of bites, Xu Chuanchuan got out of bed in a depressed mood.


    However, Murong Shi quickly held back Xu Chuanchuan with an embrace. Then, while rubbing her chin against her partner''s shoulder, she said, "I''m sorry. I didn''t think you were so afraid of pain."


    Xu Chuanchuan harrumphed and said, "I''m even afraid of injections."


    After nting aforting kiss on Xu Chuanchuan''s cheek, Murong Shi asked, "Have you been refusing to do it with me because you''re afraid of pain?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt as if a bomb had suddenly gone off in her mind. Then, snapping her head toward Murong Shi, she stammered, "Y-Y-You!"


    Murong Shi straightened her back and stared at Xu Chuanchuan with an unprecedentedly solemn look. Then, she said, "Don''t panic. Don''t try to avoid the question, either. Answer me properly."


    <em>How did we get from talking about a concert to...this?!</em> Xu Chuanchuan did her best to calm her rapidly beating heart. However, when she saw the stern and passionate look on Murong Shi''s face, she had no choice but to seriously treat Murong Shi''s question.


    Murong Shi did not rush Xu Chuanchuan. Only, her grip over Xu Chuanchuan had gradually gotten stronger as the silence continued for a long time.


    "Are you...really <em>that </em>eager to do it with me?" Xu Chuanchuan asked hesitantly.


    In response, Murong Shi nodded and earnestly said, "It''s because I like you. I can''t stop myself from wanting to do it."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart trembled slightly. Then, after pondering for a long time, she nodded with the slightest of movements.


    Xu Chuanchuan was indeed afraid.


    On the day after Murong Shi had gotten drunk and pushed her down onto the bed, Xu Chuanchuan had done an online search on the experiences of women who had sex for the first time.


    Many people stated that it would hurt, but some also said they didn''t feel any pain. This situation greatly confused Xu Chuanchuan. She was incredibly sensitive to pain, so she dared not imagine what kind of torturous pain she would go through once <em>that </em>membrane broke


    For this reason, every time Murong Shi tried to seduce her into having sex, Xu Chuanchuan would run away out of fear.


    Murong Shi''s tensed nerves rxed when she finally got an answer. Then, holding up Xu Chuanchuan''s head and looking into her eyes, Murong Shi said, "It''s not that scary."


    "How would you know that?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in a trembling tone.


    Murong Shi broke into a smile when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. Then, she said, "Fang Qin said that it wouldn''t hurt so long as the technique is right."


    "You even asked her about this?" Xu Chuanchuan asked with a stiffened expression.


    "She''s experienced."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan hid her face out of embarrassment.


    However, Murong Shi lifted Xu Chuanchuan''s head once more and nted a kiss on her.


    Unlike before, Murong Shi was much more patient with her kiss this time. Even so, it wasn''t an intense kiss.


    Xu Chuanchuan gradually rxed amidst Murong Shi''s gentle treatment. The instant Murong Shiid her body down on the bed, Xu Chuanchuan heard a voice saying in her mind, "Here ites."


    Xu Chuanchuan anxiously held onto the person hovering above her and mentally prepared herself for what was toe.


    However, Murong Shi suddenly let go of Xu Chuanchuan at this crucial moment. Then, pinching Xu Chuanchuan''s dumbfounded face, she said, "Go to sleep. Good night."


    The next day.


    The sun was out, and the sky was clear. The sight alone put everyone in a happy mood. After their group of five finished lunch, Xu Xiangxiang eagerly said she was going to the beach.


    Looking at the sky, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You all have fun. I''m going back for the AC."


    Patting her elder sister on the shoulders, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "You''re staying indoors when we came all the way to the beach? Sis, are you alright?"


    Making up a casual lie, Xu Chuanchuan said, "My back hurts."


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, Little Yan and Fang Qin made a "hush" gesture to each other in unison.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly exined, "It''s not what you think."


    "Think what?" Xu Xiangxiang asked with an ignorant expression.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Then, Little Yan gave a thumbs up to Murong Shi and said, "Amazing!"


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry about this situation. Then, she said, "Stop thinking nonsense. Let''s go. We''ll see how the stage ising along."


    The stage for the concert was being set up on the beach some distance ahead. After seeing off Murong Shi and the others, Xu Chuanchuan turned around and returned to the vi.


    Every room in the vi came with aputer specialized for streaming. The monitor was also bright and massive, and Xu Chuanchuan was a little unused to it. Fortunately, the keyboard''s keycaps were sufficiently soft to the touch.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan also wanted to have fun with the others. However, when she thought about how much work was awaiting her, she had no choice but to suppress her desires and start writing.


    Around three o''clock in the afternoon, Xu Chuanchuan''s attention was suddenly interrupted by a loud noise.


    <em>The concert should''ve started, I guess.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan stuffed her ears with a pair of earphones and yed some light music she usually listened to when writing. With this, she managed to iste the noise from her ears.


    After writing for another hour, Xu Chuanchuan stood up and moved her stiff hands and feet. However, when she turned around, her body froze up immediately.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan realized it, the rain had started pouring outside once more. Moreover, it was quite the heavy rain.


    However, the rain wasn''t the cause of Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. Instead, it was because Murong Shi currently stood drenched outside the balcony, a panicked expression on her face. Then, when Murong Shi entered the room and saw Xu Chuanchuan standing inside the room perfectly intact, she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    Xu Chuanchuan gaped in shock as she looked at Murong Shi''s soaked body. Then, she asked, "Why did youe in through the balcony?"


    Murong Shi walked over to Xu Chuanchuan inrge strides. Then, she tightly held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrists, red at the shorter woman with bloodshot eyes, and yelled, "Why didn''t you answer my calls?! I called you over a dozen times!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was stunned by the unexpected anger.

 Chapter 66: Pt.1

    Chapter 66: Pt.1


    "Well?! Why didn''t you answer the phone?!"


    When Xu Chuanchuan felt a pair of cold hands tightly mping down on her shoulders and heard Murong Shi shouting at her for the second time, she snapped out of her daze and subconsciously wet her lips. Then, she said, "I I was writing just now."


    "You couldn''t answer the phone because of that? We all thought something happened to you!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan felt her head buzzing after being yelled at for the third time. Then, she nced at her phone that she had tossed onto the bed and said, "My phone''s charging. The noise outside was also too loud for me to focus, so I put on my earphones I''m sorry, I really didn''t hear it ringing."


    <em>What should I do? She looks like she wants to eat me alive,</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself worriedly.


    Just as Murong Shi was about to continue speaking, three more people rushed in through the balcony.


    "You all" Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded.


    Xu Xiangxiang was the first to speak, asking, "Sis, are you alright?"


    "I''m fine."


    Setting her arms akimbo, Xu Xiangxiang red at her elder sister and shouted, "Why weren''t you answering your phone if you were alright?! You even locked the door from the inside! Didn''t you hear us knocking all this time?!"


    "I''m sorry, I really didn''t hear it" Xu Chuanchuan said with an innocent face.


    Then, Little Yan said while panting, "It''s good that you''re alright. We all thought something happened to you inside. You really gave us a scare."


    Never did Xu Chuanchuan think that her focus in writing would result in such a situation. Yet, when she looked at the four people who had charged into the room in their disheveled attire, she couldn''t help but be at a loss on what to do. Apart from apologizing, she didn''t know what else she should say.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin patted Murong Shi on the shoulder and said, "See? I told you that you were just scaring yourself. Well, it''s good that nothing happened. We''ll head back and change our clothes for now."


    Xu Chuanchuan personally helped Fang Qin and the others open the door. Before leaving, Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t help but chide her elder sister again, saying, "Look at this door. We nearly kicked it down, yet you said you didn''t hear anything?!?!"


    "I" Xu Chuanchuan honestly didn''t know how to exin herself. She had yed her music too loudly. She had also fully immersed her mind into her work.


    "We were worried sick!"


    "I''m sorry, I''m sorry," Xu Chuanchuan repeated. Then, after seeing off Xu Xiangxiang and the others, she closed the door and returned to Murong Shi''s side at the fastest speed. "I didn''t do it on purpose. You, too, know that I don''t normally get distracted when writing."


    The hostility on Murong Shi''s face gradually faded. However, herplexion still didn''t look too good. After letting out a long sigh, Murong Shi said, "It was my fault for making a mountain out of a molehill. When I saw that the door was locked from the inside, and you weren''t answering the phone, I thought..."


    "Thought what?"


    They were currently staying in a foreign environment that housed both men and women. Although Jiang Shaohua owned this ce, nobody could guarantee that the safety measurements in ce were wless.


    Ten minutes ago, Murong Shi and Fang Qin were still leisurely watching the concert on the beach together with the two younger girls. However, seaside weather was constantly changing and unpredictable, and rain suddenly started pouring down from the sky without reserve. As a result, the concert was abruptly halted, and the four of them became drenched.


    Originally, they intended to return to their respective rooms after arriving back at the vi. However, when Murong Shi tried opening the door to her room, she was met with an unexpected failure. To make matters worse, when she subsequently called Xu Chuanchuan several times, not once did her calls get answered. In such a situation, how could Murong Shi not panic?


    Afterward, Murong Shi quickly called the others over to help bang on the door. Unfortunately, even after they had nearly broken down the door, there was still no movementing from inside the room.


    In just a few short minutes, Murong Shi had thought up multiple scary scenes and possible scenarios such as murder, r*pe, and various other idents


    Coincidentally, one of the neighboring female streamers happened toe back to get a change of clothes. Seeing this, Murong Shi quickly followed that person into her room and used the shared balcony to return to her own room, only toe across Xu Chuanchuan stretching inside.


    Logically, Murong Shi should be happy that Xu Chuanchuan was safe and sound. However, when Murong Shi thought about how a group of people had been so worried for Xu Chuanchuan for several minutes, the anxiety and frustration built up within her caused her to lose her temper.


    This was the first time Murong Shi had gotten so angry, and even she couldn''t help but be surprised by herself. Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan was safe and sound.


    After wiping the rainwater off of her face, Murong Shi tiredly said, "Remember to have your phone by your side in the future."


    "I know, I know," Xu Chuanchuan said, fear lingering in her heart. Then, when she looked at Murong Shi''s miserable appearance, she said, "Quickly take a shower. I''ll bring you a change of clothes."


    An hourter


    Murong Shi opened the bathroom door and walked into the living room.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan stood respectfully outside the bathroom, a hairdryer in her hand. When she saw Murong Shiing out of the bathroom, she said, "Are you done? Here, let me dry your hair for you!"


    "Don''t you need to write?"


    "That can wait," Xu Chuanchuan said as she pulled Murong Shi to the sofa.


    Murong Shi had long and dense hair, so it took a lot of effort to dry it. Even after working ceaselessly for ten minutes, Xu Chuanchuan only managed to dry half of it. While she was shaking her tired wrists, she suddenly heard Murong Shi saying, "Just leave it at that."


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently put the hairdryer away and mimicked Murong Shi''s previous actions, gentlybing Murong Shi''s hair with her fingers. Then, she helped tidy Murong Shi''s cor and mindfully asked, "Do you want me to pour you a cup of hot water?"


    Holding down Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, Murong Shi put on a partial smile and asked, "Why did you be so considerate all of a sudden?"


    "Was I not considerate before?"


    "So-so. You barely pass as a girlfriend."


    The next moment, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed onto one of Murong Shi''s arms and tentatively said, "You look very scary when you''re angry."


    Murong Shi stiffened momentarily. Then, she caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s head and said, "I''m sorry. I got a little too anxious."


    "I thought you were going to hit me back then."


    "...I''m not <em>that </em>violent."


    "But when I realized that you only behaved that way because you were worried about me, I became happy again." Half-kneeling on the sofa, Xu Chuanchuan was positioned a head higher than Murong Shi. Then, she said with a grin, "So you like me <em>that </em>much."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi asked, "So, you feel delighted at seeing my miserable appearance?"


    "No, no, I feel moved."


    "That''s not something you should express with words alone."


    Kissing from this angle could not be any more perfect. Xu Chuanchuan had also never tried kissing from this angle, so she couldn''t help but be curious. So, without hesitation, she held onto Murong Shi''s face and lowered her head.


    Unfortunately, before their lips made contact, the sound of knocking came from the door.


    Releasing Murong Shi''s face, Xu Chuanchuan straightened her body and raised her voice, "Who is it?"


    "It''s time for a feast. Are you twoing?" Fang Qin''s voice came through the door.


    Xu Chuanchuan briefly exchanged nces with Murong Shi before she replied, "We''re going!"


    There was no way a glutton would let go of an opportunity to have a feast.


    Because of the concert''s abrupt cancetion, Jiang Shaohua had invited the chefs of a five-star hotel toe to cook up a feast to assuage the live streamers and guests.


    However, Xu Xiangxiang didn''t ce her focus on the meal. Instead, she busily dragged Little Yan around the dining hall and socialized with the other streamers present.


    Seeing this, Fang Qin said, "Seems like Xiangxiang likes being a streamer."


    Xu Chuanchuan did notment on this matter. Instead, her whole focus was on eating as she said, "I''m starving. I''m thinking of eating some noodles. What about you?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "Dummy, everyone else is picking the expensive stuff, so why are you eating noodles? They''re serving sea cucumber soup over there; let''s try that first."


    Sticking out her tongue, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I look like a country bumpkin beside you."


    "Let''s go."


    When Fang Qin turned around and saw that everyone had left her, sheined, "Hey, hey, hey. Are all of you ditching me?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan beamed an awkward smile at Fang Qin.


    Beautiful women liked drinking soup, so there were a lot of people crowded around the soup area. Murong Shi kept holding Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, so it was quite difficult for them to squeeze through the crowd. When Xu Chuanchuan tried to struggle free from Murong Shi''s hold, Murong Shi refused to let go. Then, Murong Shi quietly said, "I worry that you''ll get lured away by a little vixen if I let go of you."


    "Nonsense!" Xu Chuanchuan cried out at the injustice.


    Then, Murong Shi said in a lukewarm tone, "You even drooled when you watched our neighbors dancingst night."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew ashamed and embarrassed upon hearing Murong Shi''s words. Inwardly, though, she felt pleased about this situation. While Murong Shi was indeed scary when she was angry, she looked adorable when she was jealous.


    After drinking some soup and eating some seafood, Murong Shi threw in the towel. In contrast, Xu Chuanchuan ate another portion of the main course before she satiated her appetite.


    There was going to be a lottery heldter during the night, and it was mentioned that the prizes were generous. However, neither Xu Chuanchuan nor Murong Shi nned to stay for the event.


    Firstly, both of them disliked lively atmospheres. Secondly, Murong Shi looked too outstanding, and people constantly mistook her as one of the attending live streamers. asionally, someone would even walk up to her and ask, "Are you a neer? Are you a dancer or a singer? Why haven''t I seen you before?"


    In response, Murong Shi would always curtly reply with a "no."


    When women saw other women of the same age who looked prettier than themselves, they would either look at the other party in admiration or envy. When standing together with Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan could feel numerous gazes stabbing holes into her body.


    Apart from women, many men would alsoe and harass Murong Shi. Though, they spoke with even less reserve as they said, "What''s your broadcasting ID? Wanna exchange WeChat contact? I''ll send you a lot of gifts."


    In regards to these approaches, Murong Shi outright ignored them. Then, after having had enough of this situation, she left the dining hall together with Xu Chuanchuan.


    Probably because of her sexual orientation, Murong Shi was a little averse toward men. After getting harassed multiple times, herplexion had darkened significantly.


    After Xu Chuanchuan closed the door behind her, she pointed at theputer in the room and jokingly said, "If you were to be a streamer, you could probably receive a lot of donations even without talent for anything."


    Narrowing her eyes, Murong Shi asked, "You want me to sell my appearance?"


    "Uh I wasplimenting your beauty," Xu Chuanchuan said, awkwardly rubbing her nose. Then, she hurriedly added, "Actually, I''ve been feeling very depressed about something. You look so beautiful, so why would you take a liking to me?"


    In response, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks and said, "Although I rarely praise you, you don''t look half bad, either. You fit my tastes very well."


    A slight blush appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face when she heard the praise. Then, she mumbled, "InitiallyI thought you weren''t serious about me. Our rtionship developed so quickly, and you were always so eager to take things one step further. It made me feel like"


    "Hm?"


    In an even softer voice, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Like you were looking for a friend with benefits."


    "..." Murong Shi''s lips twitched slightly, aplicated expression appearing on her face. Then, after looking at Xu Chuanchuan for a long time, she suddenly smiled and said, "Since when did you be such a narcissist?"


    "Huh?"


    "If I was only looking for a sex friend, why would I look for you of all people?" Murong Shi said. Then, she brazenly scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan''s body and continued, "You have no breasts, no buttocks, and no waist. For what would I aim for you?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan''s face turned as red as a tomato.


    <em>Although what you say is true, is there a need tounch such a personal attack?!</em>


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more disgruntled she became. Then, she tightened her T-shirt with both hands, lifted her head, puffed up her chest, and said, "Aren''t these breasts? I have them as well!"


    "That''s because of your underwear," Murong Shi mercilessly said. Then, with a mischievous smile, she continued, "You''ll look no different than a washboard once you take off your underwear."


    "..." Once again, Xu Chuanchuan realized that not once had she ever won an argument against Murong Shi.


    The rain continued pouring towards the evening, so the concert could not resume. However, the rain did let up a little, and the pitter-patter sounds it generated served as an excellent sleeping aid.


    Murong Shi washed up once more before going to bed. Once she was done, it was Xu Chuanchuan''s turn to shower.


    Xu Chuanchuan took her time showering tonight. She earnestly scrubbed every nook and cranny with her hands and towel.


    After feeling satisfied with her work, Xu Chuanchuan dried her body and put on thin pajamas. When she left the bathroom, the noise she made attracted Murong Shi''s attention.


    When Murong Shi moved her gaze from her phone to Xu Chuanchuan, her eyes lit up with surprise. "You actually brought this one here?"


    The pajamas Xu Chuanchuan currently wore was the same one Murong Shi had previously teased her for being too transparent. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think she would be sharing a room with Murong Shi when they came on this trip, so she had never dared to put this set of pajamas on.


    With both her hands covering her chest, Xu Chuanchuan tentatively walked over to Murong Shi. When she arrived by the bed, she slowly loosened her hands and straightened her body. Then, she said, "I''m not wearing any underwear right now. See? I''m not a washboard."


    Murong Shi put her phone aside, her gaze impulsively moving toward Xu Chuanchuan''s chest. The next moment, her eyes slightly darkened as she asked, "Are you aware of how much you look like you''re seducing me right now?"


    The prerequisite to seduce someone was to have something desirable. However, be it her figure or face, Xu Chuanchuan held no advantages in front of Murong Shi. Simply put, Xu Chuanchuan had nothing. The only thing she had was probably courage.


    After taking a moment to calm her nerves, Xu Chuanchuan took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and took the initiative to embrace Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi wasn''t expecting such a development. But, before Xu Chuanchuan could do anything further, Murong Shi stopped the shorter woman and asked, "What are you doing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan opened her eyes and wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck. Then, she said in embarrassment, "I''m seducing you. Didn''t you want to do it with me?"


    Murong Shi''s breath froze.


    During Murong Shi''s brief moment of inattentiveness, Xu Chuanchuan stood on her toes and clumsily kissed the other party.


    Murong Shi held down the hands that tried to remove her shirt. At this point, her breathing had grown slightly erratic, and she could no longer hide the desire in her eyes. However, she still teasingly said, "What''s with the sudden change of mind? Or are you trying to repay me for lending you money?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was about to lose her courage after getting interrupted for a second time. Then, biting her lip in annoyance, she said, "Why are you so talkative today?"


    Murong Shi: "..."


    There was no sensational dialogue or ritual. Everything just happened naturally.


    Xu Chuanchuan rarely took the initiative in their rtionship, and this was the boldest action she had ever taken. When she found herself stuck in the depths of love, she decided to give her whole heart out to her lover.


    TL Notes:

 Chapter 66: Pt.2

    Chapter 66: Pt.2


    The next day


    The rain had stopped, the sky was clear, and the winds were gentle. It was the perfect weather for going out to sea.


    Taking advantage of this weather, Jiang Shaohua ordered his subordinates to set up the concert once more, and they began building up the stage on the beach early in the morning.


    While this was going on, Fang Qin, Little Yan, and Xu Xiangxiang enjoyed breakfast in an open-air restaurant by the beach.


    After stuffing her mouth full of cake, Xu Xiangxiang looked around and asked, "Why haven''t my sister and Big Sis Shishie yet?"


    "Your sister probably won''t be getting up," Fang Qin said gleefully.


    "What do you mean? Is she ill?" Xu Xiangxiang asked before hurriedly pulling out her phone.


    Fortunately, Fang Qin stopped the younger girl in time before saying, "Your sister''s just tired. She might still be sleeping, so let''s not disturb them."


    "Oh."


    Unable to hold back her curiosity, Little Yan secretly asked Fang Qin, "Do you know something?"


    In response, Fang Qin put on a profound smile and said, "I don''t know anything."


    Fang Qin was naturally lying. When she previously went and knocked on Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan''s door, she was greeted by Murong Shi with an astonishing pair of dark circles.


    As someone experienced in the field, Fang Qin instantly knew that this was a case of excessive indulgence, so she asked, "You atest night?"


    In response, Murong Shi had shooed Fang Qin away with a face full of annoyance.


    Sometimeter, inside a certain room


    Murong Shi picked up her shirt that had fallen to the floor and dusted it. While she was doing so, her phone rang once. When she took a look at her phone, she saw that Fang Qin had sent her a voice message, saying, "The weather''s good today, and Jiang Shaohua has arranged a yacht for us to go out to sea. Are you sure you two aren''ting?"


    Even though the sounding from the phone was so loud, it did not wake up the person sleeping on the bed. Murong Shi walked over to the bed with light steps, bent down, and moved aside the bangs covering the face of her sleeping lover.


    Xu Chuanchuan remained in a deep sleep. However, she wore a slight frown on her face, probably because she wasn''t sleeping toofortably.


    Murong Shi leaned closer and gave a peck on Xu Chuanchuan''s forehead. Then, she tugged on thetter''s ear and said, "Rise and shine, youzy little pig."


    Xu Chuanchuan had sensitive ears, so she immediately reacted to the tugging. Then, she snorted in dissatisfaction and said, "I''m tired."


    "I know you''re tired, but how about saving your sleep forter? We can go out to sea today. If you don''t go now, you might not have a chance again afterward."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt incredibly itchy because of Murong Shi''s hot breath hitting her ear. So, she decisively covered her head with the nket and adamantly refused to open her eyes.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi was left with no choice but to use her trump card. Immediately, she flipped up the nket from the bottom and stretched her hands under the nket.


    "Ah!" Xu Chuanchuan woke up in shock and smacked the hands that were pressed onto her buttocks. Then, she subconsciously screamed, "No more!"


    "No more what?" Murong Shi asked with a bright smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan repeatedly blinked her eyes to verify that she wasn''t dreaming. Then, with a blush on her face, she held onto the nket with trembling hands and asked, "W-What time is it?"


    "It''s nine-thirty. Are you hungry?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded.


    Then, Murong Shi caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s face and warmly said, "Go wash up first, then we''ll go have some breakfast."


    However, no matter how gentle of an expression Murong Shi currently wore, Xu Chuanchuan knew that it was nothing but an act. After all, Murong Shi was no different than a demonst night!


    "Why aren''t you moving? Do you want me to carry you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression instantly changed, and she immediately jumped out of bed. "I''ll do it myself! Y-Y-You, turn away!"


    Murong Shi''s smile grew even wider at these words. Then, she said, "I''ve already seen everything, so what''s there to be ashamed of?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Half an hourter


    Fang Qin and the others had already finished eating and were taking group photos. While doing so, Fang Qin noticed her phone''s camera capturing two familiar figures. Immediately, she stopped what she was doing, turned around, and whistled at the two approaching people.


    Meanwhile, Little Yan also turned around and eximed, "My god Chuanchuan''s walking posture"


    "Goes to show how intensest night was," Fang Qin said in a suggestive tone.


    Little Yan gulped at Fang Qin''s words.


    Of the group of three, only Xu Xiangxiang remained in the dark. When she saw her elder sister limping while being supported by Murong Shi, she innocently asked, "Sis, what happened to your leg?"


    "I I" Xu Chuanchuan stammered, unable to think up a proper excuse.


    "She slipped while in the shower," Murong Shi calmly said.


    Holding no doubts over Murong Shi''s words, Xu Xiangxiang said, "How can you be so careless!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan sent Murong Shi a re.


    However, Murong Shi simply ignored Xu Chuanchuan''s re and helped thetter to a seat. Then, she stuffed a pillow behind the shorter woman''s back.


    "I don''t need it," Xu Chuanchuan said as she took the pillow away.


    Murong Shi did not quibble with Xu Chuanchuan. Instead, she poured a cup of milk tea for the other party.


    The atmosphere around the table was a little strange. Fang Qin and Little Yan were both curious to find out more about what had happenedst night. However, when they saw the unnatural expression on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, neither of them could bring themselves to ask. Eventually, they stopped paying attention to the couple and returned to taking group photos with Xu Xiangxiang.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan ate their breakfast in silence.


    Xu Chuanchuan had decided to wage a cold war with Murong Shi today. No matter how Murong Shi tried to please her, she would turn her head away and ignore her actions.


    Two beautiful women sat at the table next to theirs. Both of them wore swimsuits and looked like they were about to go have fun at the beach. While eating their breakfast, they also had a conversation with each other.


    "Your nails look amazing. Where did you get them done?"


    "It''s the shop next to where I work. The finished product looks okay, but I identally rubbed off a piece when cooking, so I ended up digging it off."


    <em>"Don''t touch that Stop digging at that ce! Ouch, ouch, ouch!"</em>


    <em>"Shh Just bear with it for a moment, and it''ll stop hurting soon."</em>


    "Cough" Xu Chuanchuan identally choked on her milk tea and started violently coughing.


    Murong Shi put down the cutlery in her hands and helped pat Xu Chuanchuan''s back. Then, she asked, "Are you alright?"


    "I''m also going to go to that shop next time."


    "You have long fingers. I think they look fine even without doing those fancy things."


    <em>"No, no, that''s too deep Ouch!"</em>


    <em>"I''ll stop using my hand, then."</em>


    "Pft" Xu Chuanchuan spat out her milk tea.


    Xu Xiangxiang, who sat across Xu Chuanchuan, naturally ended up having her face covered by milk tea. Immediately, she yelled, "Sis, what are you doing?!"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she was going crazy as the neighboring table''s conversation kept ovepping with her memories fromst night.


    <em>I can''t stay here any longer. </em>Xu Chuanchuan abruptly stood up and said, "I''m full."


    "You''re only eating so little?" Murong Shi asked with a frown.


    At this time, Fang Qin put her phone aside and said, "You''re done eating? Let''s head out to sea, then. We shouldn''t make the others wait for too long."


    The sea today was calm, so the yacht sailed with rtive stability. Xu Chuanchuan stood at a corner of the deck, weing the ocean breeze with her face. However, so long as Murong Shi moved even a step closer to her, she would step aside and increase the distance between them.


    Eventually, Murong Shi gave up being patient and simply wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist. Then, she said, "I worry that you''ll get seasick."


    "I''m fine," Xu Chuanchuan stubbornly said, still refusing to look at Murong Shi.


    Putting on a troubled expression, Murong Shi said, "Is there a need to get so angry at me?"


    "You liar!" Xu Chuanchuan said, gnashing her teeth.


    "...You clearly enjoyed it a lot," Murong Shi said.


    "Y-Y-You! Keep your mouth shut!" Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly covered Murong Shi''s mouth.


    At the same time, Xu Xiangxiang''s cheerful voice came from the other side of the yacht as she shouted, "Wahh! I think I saw a whale! The whale''s spraying water!!! Little Yan,e look at it quickly!"


    Shortly afterward, Little Yan also cried out in excitement, "My god! My god! It''s really a whale! Quick! Take a picture! Take a picture!"


    The two girls'' excited yelling briefly distracted Xu Chuanchuan, and Murong Shi took this opportunity to remove Xu Chuanchuan''s hands from her mouth.


    While everyone else had their attention drawn to the other side of the boat, Murong Shi leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and pointed at the surfacing whale. Then, she said, "Doesn''t that whale resemble you?"


    "You You shut up!"


    "But you''re better than it. You did it four times."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the urge to jump into the ocean.

 Chapter 67: Pt.1

    Chapter 67: Pt.1


    "Don''t stop me! Let me die!" Xu Chuanchuan yelled while leaning against the railing.


    Murong Shi found the situation both funny and aggravating. After forcefully pulling Xu Chuanchuan away from the railings, she softly said, "Alright, alright, stop making a fuss. I was wrong."


    Xu Chuanchuan struggled to break free from Murong Shi''s embrace several more times before she eventually gave up and weakly leaned into Murong Shi''s arms. Then, she stopped speaking out of exhaustion.


    There was little shade where they stood, so Murong Shi helped Xu Chuanchuan to a shaded area. Then, she settled Xu Chuanchuan into a chair and said, "Be good and don''t move."


    <em>Even if I want to move, I''d need the energy to do so first! </em>Xu Chuanchuan mentally retorted.


    Xu Chuanchuan had been tortured past midnightst night, and she didn''t even know whether she lost consciousness because she was exhausted or sleepy. Murong Shi had also woken her after she had gotten only several hours of sleep. Now, her back felt sore, and her legs felt limp. She also constantly experienced a strange sensationdown there, and it prevented her from sitting properly.


    To make matters worse, so long as she quieted down, her brain would automatically start ying the chaotic scene fromst night. Those fiery lips, scorching hands, and hoarse breaths and moans Whenever she recalled these things, she couldn''t help but wish she could lose consciousness immediately.


    When Murong Shi returned from the cabin and saw Xu Chuanchuan covering her face with her hands, her expression changed slightly, and she quickly made her way over to Xu Chuanchuan.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Moving her hands away, Xu Chuanchuan revealed an aggrieved expression as she said, "I''m tired"


    Sighing in relief, Murong Shi said, "You scared me. I thought you started crying again."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew dissatisfied when she heard the word "again." Immediately, she gave Murong Shi a pinch and voiced her protest through her eyes.


    Taking advantage of the opportunity, Murong Shi grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and kissed it. Then, she said, "I thought you only criedst night because you were happy."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she was licked by fire when Murong Shi kissed her hand. After quickly retracting her hand, she quickly looked at her surroundings and made sure that nobody saw what just happened. Then, she turned her head aside and said, "I don''t want to talk to you."


    Revealing a gentle smile, Murong Shi straightened her body and said, "I don''t mind if you don''t talk to me, but you need to put on your life jacket first."


    "I''m not wearing it," Xu Chuanchuan said, adamant in opposing Murong Shi''s every word.


    In response, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s nose and said, "Everyone needs to wear one. You don''t know how to swim, either. What would happen if you identally fell off the boat?"


    Finding Murong Shi''s reasoning to be sound, Xu Chuanchuan tried to raise her arms but retracted them partway through doing so. Then, she listlessly said, "I''m out of strength."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh. "Are you acting spoiled with me?"


    "Hmph."


    Holding back her smile, Murong Shi opened up the life jacket and said in a helpless tone, "Okay, okay, okay. I''ll help you wear it."


    Despiteing out to the ocean, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to be excited. Right now, the only thing she wanted to do was return and catch up on her sleep.


    The closer it got to the afternoon, the more toxic the sun became. Eventually, the women on board the yacht could no longer tolerate the heat, so the boat turned around and made its way back to shore.


    They had only sailed around for an hour, so Xu Xiangxiang still didn''t have enough fun. Even so, she had gained a significant harvest from this short sail as she had taken a lot of interesting pictures. Then, while raising her phone in excitement, she said, "Sis, Big Sis Shishi, did you two see the whale? I took a lot of photos. Wanna look at them?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mood soured at the mention of the word "whale." Putting on a gloomy face, she silently elerated her footsteps.


    Confused, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "What''s wrong with her?"


    "Maybe she''s seasick. I''ll bring her back to the room to rest first," Murong Shi exined.


    Looking at her elder sister''s departing figure, Xu Xiangxiang said, "My sister''s legs seem to be trembling. Did she fall very hard? Do we need to bring her to the hospital?"


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin sent Murong Shi a nce and quietly asked, "Did you go too hard on her?"


    After awkwardly clearing her throat, Murong Shi said, "It shouldn''t be too serious You three have fun."


    However, despite her words, Murong Shi was still a little worried. So, after returning to the room, the first thing she did was to ask Xu Chuanchuan, "Does it still hurt?"


    Giving Murong Shi a resentful re, Xu Chuanchuan replied, "What do you think?"


    After taking a long look at Xu Chuanchuan''s legs that had be as soft as noodles, Murong Shi said, "Take your pants off and let me see."


    Gasping, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What did you say?!"


    "I want to see if it''s swollen. If it''s too serious, we might need to get some medicine."


    Although Murong Shi spoke with a serious expression, Xu Chuanchuan still found herself blushing like a tomato. Then, while holding tightly onto her pants, she said, "No! Need!"


    At 5.30 PM, after eating onest seafood buffet, Murong Shi''s group said their goodbyes to Jiang Shaohua and left the seaside vi.


    The group''s mode of transportation consisted of Murong Shi''s and Fang Qin''s cars. To avoid letting Fang Qin feel too bored, Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang rode together with her. As for Xu Chuanchuan, she naturally rode with Murong Shi.


    Xu Xiangxiang felt very reluctant to leave the vi. Before she left, she made sure to take a group photo with her new acquaintances. Then, after uploading the photos to her social media, she asked Xu Chuanchuan, "Sis, why didn''t you give me a like on the whale post?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    It was already dark by the time the group returned to S City. Because of the difference in travel routes, Little Yan had switched from Fang Qin''s car to Murong Shi''s car partway through the journey back.


    Before they went their separate ways, Xu Chuanchuan rolled down the passenger window and raised her voice, saying, "Fang Qin, sorry for the trouble!"


    In response, Fang Qin waved her hand and said, "Don''t worry. I''ll make sure to send Xiangxiang back safely!"


    "Thanks! Make sure to be careful when driving! Goodbye!"


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang poked her head out of Fang Qin''s car and said, "Bye-bye! Let''s meet again next time!"


    Little Yan sat at the back of Murong Shi''s car all by herself. After putting her legs up on the seat, sheid downzily and said, "It''s so fun to be around Xiangxiang."


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You two have such differing personalities. I didn''t expect you two to be friends in such a short time."


    "This proves that our fates are aligned," Little Yan said with a bright smile. Then, she leaned forward and said to Xu Chuanchuan, "Fate really is a magical thing. It''s just like you and my cousin, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to follow up with Little Yan''s words.


    After staring at Xu Chuanchuan for a while, Little Yan suddenly said, "Chuanchuan, you seemed to be in a bad mood today. Did my cousin bully you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan snuck a nce at the person focused on driving when she heard Little Yan''s question. Then, taking advantage of this opportunity, she said, "It''s not the first time she has bullied me."


    In response, Little Yan revealed a naughty smile and said, "Her method of bullying this time should be different from before, right? Did you two really doouch!"


    Murong Shi freed one of her hands from the steering wheel and gave Little Yan a heavy tap on the head with her knuckles. Then, she indifferently said, "Sit properly."


    After receiving a warning, Little Yan reluctantly sat back down and dared not continue asking aboutst night.


    Meanwhile, when Murong Shi turned her head aside, she immediately saw Xu Chuanchuan''s face as red as a tomato. And although she wanted tough at this scene, she dared not do so. Instead, she secretly held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and softly said, "It''s quitete, so sleep at my house for tonight."


    This was the second time Xu Chuanchuan had visited Murong Shi''s house, so she wasn''t as cautious as before. However, Murong Mingshu still weed her with enthusiasm, and Aunt Liam even prepared supper for them.


    After finishing supper, Murong Shi brought their luggage up to the second floor.


    "Wait up," Xu Chuanchuan said, enduring her difort as she ran up the stairs. However, because of her wobbling legs, she stumbled and very nearly fell.


    "Slow down." Murong Shi supported Xu Chuanchuan with her free hand.


    "Where are you taking my luggage to?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, pointing her chin at her luggage.


    "To my room. Is there a problem?"


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly took a look at her surroundings. Then, after seeing that nobody else was nearby, she muttered, "I''m not sleeping with you."


    Surprised, Murong Shi said, "Where are you going to sleep if not with me? Aunt Lian only prepared one guest room."


    "I''ll sleep with Little Yan."


    "Little Yan?" Murong Shi frowned slightly.


    Coincidentally, Little Yan walked over with her luggage at this time and overheard their conversation. Then, she said, "Cousin, you can be at ease and leave Chuanchuan with me. I swear I won''t bully her."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan snatched back her luggage during Murong Shi''s moment of inattentiveness. Then, she turned around and smiled at Little Yan, saying, "Let''s go."


    "Okay!"


    In the end, Murong Shi could only watch as Xu Chuanchuan and Little Yan disappeared into the guest room.


    After closing the door, Little Yan eagerly asked, "Chuanchuan, are you really going to sleep with me?"


    "That''s right. Do you not want to sleep with me?" Xu Chuanchuan asked as she pushed her luggage aside.


    "That''s not the case." Unsure if Murong Shi was listening in on them, Little Yan quietly said, "Didn''t you two just do...<em>that</em>st night? Why are you sleeping separately all of a sudden? You don''t need to worry about getting found out. So long as you two don''t say anything, Auntie and Aunt Lian won''t suspect a thing."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan honestly had no idea how she should exin the matter to Little Yan. She found it simply too embarrassing to even talk about the matter. So, she casually lied, "We had an argument."


    "An argument?!" Little Yan forgot to control her voice due to her surprise. "Why?"


    Shrugging, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No reason. We just argued because we wanted to."


    "Uh" Little Yan was perplexed.


    Afraid that the younger girl would continue questioning her, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly changed the topic and asked, "I''m a little tired. Can I use the bath first?"


    "Go ahead, go ahead."


    Because of her body''s difort, Xu Chuanchuan spent more time in the shower than usual. However, when she walked out of the bathroom while supporting herself using the wall, she found a familiar figure sitting on the bed.


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan straightened her body and asked, "Where''s Little Yan?"


    Murong Shi followed the sound with her eyes and said, "She went downstairs to eat some fruits. I brought some up for you, soe over and try some."


    They had fried dumplings for supper. Even until now, Xu Chuanchuan still felt a little bloated, so this te of fruits arrived at the right time. Having no reason to refuse the offer, she sat down beside Murong Shi and quietly ate the fruits.


    In the meantime, Murong Shi moved Xu Chuanchuan''s bangs aside and asked, "Are you still mad at me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyshes stirred. Then, she said in a muffled voice, "No."


    "You''re lying again," Murong Shi said as she caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s face with her icy hand. "I know what you''re afraid of. Even if you sleep on the same bed with me, I won''t be touching you today."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan silently chewed on some watermelon.


    Letting out a sigh, Murong Shi continued, "If you''re mad, I''ll apologize to you. If you don''t like it, I won''t touch you next time."


    Xu Chuanchuan identally broke the slice of watermelon she held, causing watermelon juices to stain her hand. However, she paid no heed to it. Instead, she hastily looked up and met Murong Shi''s eyes. Then, her heart thumped when she saw the sadness in those eyes.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that she didn''t have the right to be mad. After all, she was the one who approached Murong Shi. Moreover, Murong Shi had already been very gentle with her. It was her fault for being much more susceptible to pain than others. After Murong Shi''s finger entered only a little, her eyes had already watered due to the pain.


    Xu Chuanchuan would grow nervous as soon as she felt pain. And as soon as she grew anxious, she would be afraid. She had gotten so scaredst night that even when she was close to reaching climax, she couldn''t rx and properly enjoy it.


    After carefully thinking about the tantrum she threw today, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she was too pretentious. So, she lowered her gaze and said, "I''m not angry with you."


    Murong Shi wiped the watermelon juices that got onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand with a napkin. Then, she said, "Good, then. Does it still hurt?"


    "<em>Cough</em>" Xu Chuanchuan nearly choked on her saliva. "Can you stop asking that?"


    "I''m worried about you. You''re also refusing to let me see it."


    "...Can you stop being so perverted?"


    "I''m only perverted towards you."

 Chapter 67: Pt.2

    Chapter 67: Pt.2


    Murong Shi said that she was going to exchange rooms with Little Yan. However, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she had to act more reservedly since this wasn''t her home, so she forcibly chased Murong Shi back to her own room.


    The next day, Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan, and Little Yan woke up early to get ready for work. Meanwhile, Aunt Lian had prepared a sumptuous breakfast for them.


    Murong Shi sat beside Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she tugged at Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and spoke in a voice that only they could hear, "I didn''t get even a wink of sleepst night."


    Xu Chuanchuan casually responded with an "Oh" before saying, "I slept very wellst night."


    Murong Shi reached under the table and gently pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s thigh in retaliation.


    Considering that a certain someone didn''t have a good rest, Xu Chuanchuan volunteered to be the driver. Meanwhile, after getting into the passenger seat and buckling her seat belt, Murong Shi shut her eyes and began catching up on her sleep.


    If one only looked at Murong Shi''s face and sitting posture, she would be well-behaved when sleeping. However, her hand was not so well-behaved as it boldly rested on Xu Chuanchuan''s thigh. It would even asionally move about ambiguously, causing Xu Chuanchuan''s heart to beat rapidly.


    There was still half an hour left until working hours began when the trio arrived at thepany, so Xu Chuanchuan and Little Yan first brought their respective luggage back to their dormitory.


    When they arrived inside their apartment, Little Yan suddenly asked, "Cousin, where''s your luggage?"


    "Mine?" Murong Shi was confused.


    "I thought you were going to move in with Chuanchuan. After all, you two have already...right?" Little Yan said before sending a meaningful nce at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan blushed and quickly dragged her luggage into her room to avoid this topic.


    A momentter, Murong Shi followed Xu Chuanchuan into the room and closed the door behind her. Then, she said, "I think what Little Yan said makes a lot of sense."


    Faking ignorance, Xu Chuanchuan said, "What do you mean?"


    Murong Shi looked absolutely stunning when she smiled. However, there were also times when her smile made her look like a cunning fox. Walking over step by step, she wrapped her arms around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and deliberately spoke slowly, "I''m talking about moving in with you, of course."


    "..."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan didn''t clearly express her stance on the matter, Murong Shi had grandiosely moved into her room on that same day. Murong Shi came to nap with her during the afternoon, and after their dinner date, Murong Shi bought a new set of toiletries from a supermarket and stayed over that night.


    After returning to the dormitory, Murong Shi tried to rece the bedsheet. However, because she was unused to doing chores, she failed to get the job done even after some time had passed.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan decided to go over and help Murong Shi. While doing so, she hesitantly asked, "How will you exin to your family if you don''t go home tonight?"


    "I just told them I''d be staying in thepany''s dormitory," Murong Shi said. Then, she pushed Xu Chuanchuan aside and continued, "Let me do it. You should focus on your writing."


    Xu Chuanchuan should indeed focus on writing her novel. So, she sat in front of herputer and opened up a nk document. Then, after pondering for some time, she started tapping away at her keyboard.


    Murong Shi would never disturb her when she was working, so Xu Chuanchuan could finish her daily quota smoothly and quickly. However, as soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished writing, she immediately felt a pair of handsnding on her shoulders and giving her a gentle massage. Then, she heard Murong Shi saying, "I prepared your clothes already, so quickly go take a shower."


    Xu Chuanchuan had been living by herself for the past several years, so she couldn''t help but find it a little strange to have someone watch over her while she was working and even care for her. Even so, she didn''t exactly dislike it. Leaning backward, she rubbed her head against Murong Shi''s t belly and jokingly said, "Are you here to be my nanny?"


    Murong Shi smiled but did not speak. Instead, she pulled Xu Chuanchuan up and stuffed the clothing she prepared into Xu Chuanchuan''s arms.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked down and found that it was the same set of overly-thin pajamas, her face instantly heated up as she recalled a certain indescribable scene. Immediately, she fled from the room without hesitation.


    The night was still young. Aftering out of the bathroom, Xu Chuanchuan felt a little parched, so she grabbed two cartons of cultured milk from the fridge and offered one to Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi had just applied a facial mask, so she shook her head, signaling Xu Chuanchuan to drink it herself.


    Little Yan found their flirting an eyesore, so she decided to return to her room and watch Xu Xiangxiang''s live stream instead.


    There was hardly any furniture in the living room. Apart from a refrigerator, a coffee table, and a sofa, there was nothing else here, so there was nothing that could be used for entertainment. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t feel bored at all.


    After poking a straw into the cultured milk carton, Xu Chuanchuan took a look at Murong Shi and said, "No wonder why you have such good skin. I''m normally toozy to fiddle with things like facial masks."


    "Do you want to try it?" Murong Shi asked, her voice slightly blurred because of the facial mask tightening her face.


    "No, it''s too troublesome," Xu Chuanchuan said. As she was toozy to walk back to the refrigerator, she ended up drinking the second carton of cultured milk after finishing the first one.


    Murong Shi yfully poked at Xu Chuanchuan''s belly.


    "I won''t drink any more tomorrow," Xu Chuanchuan said in embarrassment.


    Xu Chuanchuan finished the two cartons of cultured milk in no time at all. She didn''t even spare the bit that had seeped out through the seams of the straw hole.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi removed her facial mask and smiled, saying, What a glutton you are."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not refute Murong Shi''s words as she threw the empty cartons into the nearby trash can.


    "You missed some."


    "Where?" Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head and looked at the trash can. However, before she could reach for the cartons, something mped down on her arm and pulled her aside.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could react to the situation, someone had given her lips a thorough licking.


    Murong Shi carefully savored the bit of cultured milk with the tip of her tongue. Then, she said, "It tastes like red dates."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan red at Murong Shi and said, "You said you didn''t want any just now."


    Murong Shi put on a triumphant smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan had the habit of checking her books''ment section before going to bed. When she reached the bottom of thement section and was about to close the reading application, she saw a systemment for a Deep-water Torpedo, and her eyes immediately went wide.


    Murong Shi looked at the section of the screen Xu Chuanchuan was pointing at. Then, she truthfully said, "It''s me."


    Blood rushed to Xu Chuanchuan''s head, and she angrily demanded, "Why are you using this name?!"


    "What''s wrong with this name? Look, some readers are even saying that it''s cute."


    Xu Chuanchuan tossed her phone aside and threatened to strangle Murong Shi. Then, she bellowed, "You''re not allowed to use this name!!!"


    "Is Little Whale not a cute name?" Murong Shi asked, blinking her eyes innocently.


    "I hate it! You must change it!"


    However, Murong Shi shook her head and firmly said, "I honestly think it''s cute. Of course, you''re cuter."


    "..."


    If Murong Shi had only changed her online nickname, Xu Chuanchuan could simply pretend not to see it and let it slide. However, when Murong Shi gifted her a blue whale bolster the next day, Xu Chuanchuan thoroughly became livid.


    "This is my first time giving you a present. I wonder if you like it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan tried her best to control her facial expression to prevent it from looking too twisted. Then, she spoke with gritted teeth, "If I say I don''t like it, can I throw it away?"


    "I''ll be very sad if that''s the case," Murong Shi said with a downcast expression.


    "..."


    Murong Shi had long since grown fed up with that crocodile bolster. The whale bolster she bought was 1.5 meters long. When put on the bed and covered with the nket, it looked like a person was sleeping on the bed.


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately got goosebumps from this scene. Then, she said, "You might as well sleep with that whale instead from now on."


    In response, Murong Shi twitched her nose slightly and said, "I seem to smell a hint of jealousy."


    "..."


    Murong Shi hooked her finger at Xu Chuanchuan, signaling her toe closer. Then, she said in a righteous tone, "People shouldn''t be too hypocritical. I didn''t say anything about you saving my number as ''Little Jealous Bug,'' so why can''t I change my nickname to ''Little Whale?''"


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes guiltily. Then, she said, "But I didn''t save your number as Little Jealous Bug."


    "You''re not?"


    "I changed it long ago."


    Murong Shi stopped speaking. Then, she grabbed their phones sitting on the bedside table and used her phone to call Xu Chuanchuan''s phone.


    The next second, the words "Big Jealous Bug" appeared on the screen of Xu Chuanchuan''s phone.


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly snatched her phone away before a certain someone exploded.


    However, Murong Shi had sharp eyes and agile hands, and she quickly pushed Xu Chuanchuan down onto the bed. Then, she bit down on Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "It seems you''ve grown very bold."


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly raised her arms in submission and said, "I was wrong! I was wrong! You can call yourself Little Whale! Ahhh! Don''t pull my shirt! I''m still not done writing!"


    The mention of "writing" was highly effective as Murong Shi immediately released Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan agilely jumping away from her, she put on a sinister smile and said, "Do you think I can''t deal with you just because of this excuse?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t understand what Murong Shi was getting at, so she took a step back and warily covered her chest with her hands.


    However, Murong Shi did not pounce on Xu Chuanchuan. Instead, what she did next was something Xu Chuanchuan would never forget for the rest of her life.


    The next moment, Murong Shi flipped the whale bolster over and sat on its back. Afterward, she violently stripped off the "clothes" it wore and casually threw clothes on the ground. Then, she started pping the whale''s rear while shouting, "Ha!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan instantly felt as if she was struck by lightning. After a moment of silence, she started yelling at the top of her lungs, "Help There''s a pervert here!"

 Chapter 68: Pt.1

    Chapter 68: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan''s shouting immediately caught the attention of Little Yan, who had juste out of the bathroom. Immediately, she ran over to Xu Chuanchuan''s room and banged on the door, asking, "Chuanchuan, Chuanchuan! What happened?!"


    In the heat of the moment, Xu Chuanchuan opened the door and said, "Little Yan, your cousin is a huge pervert! Come look, quickly!"


    "Huh? You want me to see that? Isn''t this inappropriate?!" Although Little Yan wore a horrified look on her face, excitement filled her eyes. However, when she ran into the room and looked at the bed, she clicked her tongue and said, "What''s so perverted about this?"


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Chuanchuan quickly followed Little Yan''s gaze and saw Murong Shi leisurely lying on the bed and fiddling with her phone. As for the whale pillow Murong Shi previously <em>ravaged</em>, she was currently using it as a backrest. Then, Murong Shizily looked over to Little Yan and pretended to be unhappy as she said, "Don''te into our room at night from now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Who wants toe into your room? I was only passing by." Little Yan harrumphed. Then, she turned around and left while mumbling in disappointment, "I thought I would get to see something amazing. How boring."


    After Little Yan left, Xu Chuanchuan locked the door and red at the person on the bed. Then, she said, "You''re shameless."


    Shrugging, Murong Shi said, "I didn''t even touch you, so how am I shameless"?


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan picked up the whale''s "clothing" from the floor and threw it at Murong Shi''s face. "You''re relentless even against a bolster, you beast."


    Xu Chuanchuan regretted that she did not pull out a camera and take a photo of that previous scene.


    Murong Shi reached out and caught the cloth Xu Chuanchuan threw at her. Then, she narrowed her eyes and moved her gaze downward, asking, "Is your butt getting itchy?"


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately dragged the chair over and sat down. Then, she proimed, "I''m sleeping with Little Yan tonight."


    Murong Shi, who was putting the whale bolster''s clothing back on, paused as she asked, "Why?"


    ttening her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You suddenly became very perverted. I''m scared."


    "What nonsense are you talking about?" Murong Shi set the bolster aside and walked over to touch Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    "Don''t touch me!" Xu Chuanchuan pushed Murong Shi''s hand away and tightly held onto herself.


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "Why?"


    "I''m scared that you''ll tear my clothes off and beat my bum," Xu Chuanchuan said while shuddering.


    Murong Shi''s expression momentarily froze. When she saw Xu Chuanchuan moving further away with the chair, she burst outughing and said, "I was just messing with you because you seemed tired from working. Was it fun?"


    "No," Xu Chuanchuan replied tly. Then, she sent a nce at the whale bolster on the bed and said, "What a pitiful whale."


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan was a softhearted person. After witnessing Murong Shi bully the little whale that day, her sympathy for it overflowed, and she gradually started to ept this present.


    Not to mention, such arge bolster was quite useful. It was almost as long as the bed was wide. Sometimes, when Xu Chuanchuan finished her daily writing quota early, she would watch dramas with Murong Shi while leaning against the bolster on the bed.


    cing her head on Murong Shi''s shoulder, Xu Chuanchuan said, "This bolster is quite useful. Where did you buy it?"


    "The supermarket."


    "I wonder if there are any left? Can you look for another one with me tomorrow?"


    "What are you nning?"


    "I''m thinking of buying one for Ange. She bought me that crocodile bolster on myst birthday. I haven''t bought her anything so far, so I can''t help but feel guilty."


    Xu Chuanchuan continued rambling on her own. She utterly failed to notice that Murong Shi''splexion had already changed, that was until her cheek got bitten.


    "Ah" Holding her face, Xu Chuanchuan innocently looked at Murong Shi and asked, "Why did you bite me?"


    In response, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and said in a threatening tone, "I don''t mind if you give her anything else, but you''re not allowed to give her anything rted to whales. Whales belong solely to me."


    pping Murong Shi''s hand away, Xu Chuanchuan snorted and asked, "If the whale is yours, what about me?"


    "You also belong to me."


    Women were undoubtedly auditory creatures. After just a simple sentence, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her heart bursting with happiness.


    Theptop sat between their thighs. The screen was currently showing a popr Korean drama, but Murong Shi couldn''t help but grow sleepy as she watched the show. After nearly dozing off one more time, Murong Shi tugged at Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and asked, "What''s so good about such a silly drama?"


    "Don''t you think the interaction between the male and female leads is very sweet?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, blinking her eyes innocently.


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "It''s not as sweet as your novels."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes lit up at Murong Shi''s words. Then, she turned to Murong Shi and said, "Your mouth is bing sweeter and sweeter recently. You rarely ever praised me before."


    Revealing a light smile, Murong Shi meaningfully slid her thumb across Xu Chuanchuan''s lips and asked, "Do I get a reward?"


    There was no way Xu Chuanchuan could miss such an obvious hint. So, she promptly wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck and nted a heavy kiss on Murong Shi''s lips.


    A crisp "click" sound appeared in the room. Then, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and said, "I''ll reward you with a kiss."


    However, instead of reacting in joy, Murong Shi''s eyes darkened slightly. Then, she held Xu Chuanchuan''s head in ce and said, "How is that a kiss? I already taught you many times, yet you still haven''t learned it."


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed. However, before she could shrink back, her lips were sealed.


    Neither of the two cared even when theptop had fallen aside. After some time had passed, Xu Chuanchuan started suffocating from the kiss. When she started feeling dizzy, she sensed Murong Shi''s hands wandering to all parts of her body.


    Ever since that chaotic night, Murong Shi had seemingly discerned every one of XuChuanchuan''s sensitive spots. At this moment, her usually icy hands had also turned scalding hot, and Xu Chuanchuan felt as if her skin was burning up when these hands ran across her body.


    The two''s breathing became increasingly unsteady, and Xu Chuanchuan grew even dizzier. Murong Shi worried that Xu Chuanchuan would hold her breath for too long and faint, so she briefly let go of Xu Chuanchuan''s lips.


    "No" Xu Chuanchuan panted while holding down Murong Shi''s hands.


    Murong Shi effortlessly broke free from Xu Chuanchuan''s restraint and gave her partner''s sensitive right ear a lick. Then, she hoarsely said, "You''re wet already. Should I help you strip?"


    Although Murong Shi spoke in a questioning tone, she did not wait for her partner to respond before eagerly taking action.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt herself bing strange right now. After having experienced sex, she now knew the cause of the tingling sensation her body experienced.


    Desire was a frightening thing. However, before Xu Chuanchuan lost herst strand of reasoning, she gritted her teeth and prevented herself from letting out any indecent sounds. Then, she held onto Murong Shi''s hands and pleaded, "I''m scared of pain."


    "It won''t hurt. I''ll be gentle."


    "Last time You said the samest time" Xu Chuanchuan said before curling up her legs and trembling slightly.


    Murong Shi couldn''t bring herself to continue her aggression when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s weak appearance. After letting out a long sigh, she pulled Xu Chuanchuan into an embrace and gave her a gentle kiss, saying, "Chuanchuan, we can''t continue like this."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish for this situation, either. However, she was terrified from the bottom of her heart.


    After taking a deep breath, Murong Shi asked, "Don''t you want it?"


    The matter of wanting to have sex was not something Xu Chuanchuan could bring herself to say. However, she knew very clearly about her body''s reactions. The body couldn''t lie. The only hurdle she couldn''t cross now was the hurdle in her heart.


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head, not daring to look Murong Shi in the eye. Then, she softly said, "I''m sorry."


    "It''s fine." Murong Shi gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s head.


    Even though Murong Shi did not take things any further, Xu Chuanchuan still didn''t feel safe. Faced with this situation, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but suspect her condition was pathological.


    Afterward, such awkward situations frequently urred.


    They were a couple sharing the same bed, after all. They couldn''t remain innocent all the time. At one time, Xu Chuanchuan had even stripped off her panties already. However, at the critical moment, the fear in her heart overtook her reason once more, and she mped her thighs tightly and called for Murong Shi to stop.


    Murong Shi''s expression at the time was horrible. However, she still ended up holding back her emotions and started coaxing Xu Chuanchuan.


    Whenever such situations urred, Murong Shi would always show plenty of patience and gentleness to Xu Chuanchuan. It was just like after their first time, where Murong Shi did everything to please andply with Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, the more Murong Shi behaved this way, the more guilty Xu Chuanchuan felt.


    With nowhere to vent her depression, Xu Chuanchuan eventually turned to Ange for help.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I have a question."


    Ange: "???"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you afraid of pain?"


    Ange: "That depends on what kind of pain. If it''s the child-birthing kind, then any woman would be afraid."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m talking about another kind. It''s roughly simr to giving birth."


    Ange: "Hemorrhoids? My god, don''t tell me you got hemorrhoids?!"


    Xu Chuanchuan sent spittle flying all over her monitor. After calming herself, she said: "I know you have a wonderful imagination, but can you not be so disgusting???"


    Ange: "What exactly are you trying to say, then?"


    It was incredibly challenging to tell a third person about such a secret, but Xu Chuanchuan really couldn''t find another suitable person to confide with. So, she cautiously said, "Have you done it with Citrus before?"


    Ange: "No. Why are you asking something you already knew?"


    <em>If Ange doesn''t have any experience in this regard, is there even any use in talking to her about this?</em>


    Amidst Xu Chuanchuan''s daze, Ange sent another message, saying: "Wait, don''t tell me you''ve already done it with Murong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan:


    <em>Why does she always hit the mark with her guesses!? Can she leave me with any dignity?!</em>


    After Xu Chuanchuan was done with her inner monologue, she hesitantly replied: "Mhm."


    Ange: "Crap!!! You two did it already???!!!"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "[Shy]"


    Ange: "So, are you here to show off???"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What''s there to show off about this?! I''m dying from annoyance over this matter right now."


    Ange: "What''s annoying you? Did it not feel good? Are Murong''s skills terrible?"


    Ange was too straightforward, so much so that Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to read her message.


    After taking several deep breaths and calming herself, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I''m afraid of pain. It''s to the point where I''d rather die. Because of this, I''m getting scared even when she touches me now. But I also feel sorry for her if this situation continues. I don''t know what I should do."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t as open-minded as Ange, so she tried to be as subtle as possible when conversing.


    However, Ange understood what Xu Chuanchuan was trying to convey. After pondering for some time, she replied: "Is her sexual desire intense?"


    <em>What is this stupid question?!</em> Xu Chuanchuan mentally retorted.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''sokay"


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly started regretting talking to Ange about this problem.


    Ange: "I''ve never had any real experience before, so it''s pointless even if you ask me about it. Why don''t I send some videos for you to research?"


    This wasn''t the first time Ange had proposed sending her resources rting to <em>that </em>aspect, and Xu Chuanchuan had rejected Ange''s offers every time without hesitation. However, this time, she said, "Okay! But send me just one. I don''t need too many. [Shy]"


    In no time at all, Ange sent over a download link and said: "There are all sorts of genres inside. Take your time choosing."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."

 Chapter 68: Pt.2

    Chapter 68: Pt.2


    Although thepany had a powerful inte connection, the zipped folder Ange linked was massive. The progress bar hardly moved even after several minutes had gone by. When staring at the blue progress bar, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently found herself brimming with anticipation.


    "Did you get writer''s block again?"


    At this time, Murong Shi suddenly opened the door and entered the room, causing Xu Chuanchuan to nearly have a heart attack. After hurriedly switching tabs to her usual work document, Xu Chuanchuan said with a calm face, "Mhm, a little."


    Murong Shi did not doubt Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she suggested, "Why don''t you take a shower first?"


    Xu Chuanchuan worried that the download of those videos would finish when she was away and Murong Shi would identally see thm, so she said, "I think I can continue writing now. I''ll go showerter."


    Murong Shi did not force the issue and mindfully stepped away to avoid disturbing Xu Chuanchuan.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan started pretending to write her novel.


    In the end, the file still wasn''t finished downloading even after three hours had passed. Xu Chuanchuan had thoroughly lost her patience, and the anticipation in her heart had also subsided by now. So, she turned off herputer and went to take a shower.


    In addition, Murong Shi had behaved herself rtively well in the following days. As a result, Xu Chuanchuan gradually forgot about those videos.


    "Little Xu, there''s a delivery for you."


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little stunned when she received a call from the receptionist Xu Xiaomei. Then, she said, "I haven''t bought anything recently. Are you sure it''s for me?"


    "It''s yours. It has your name and phone number on it," Xu Xiaomei affirmed.


    "Okay, I understand. Help me receive it first. I''ll go get it after work."


    "I think you best receive it yourself. This thing looks quite expensive."


    <em>Expensive? Did someone send me a gift?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan skeptically walked out of the office and made her way to the front desk to receive the delivery.


    The delivered item was a rectangr box. When Xu Chuanchuan took a look at the courier slip, she saw the words "fresh flowers" written in the item description section.


    "So it''s flowers? Did your boyfriend send them to you?" Xu Xiaomei asked curiously.


    <em>Could it be Murong?</em> Xu Chuanchuan wondered.


    "Open it up and take a look!" Xu Xiaomei urged.


    Xu Chuanchuan was rtively curious about the package as well. After receiving the scissors Xu Xiaomei offered her, she cut open the package and opened the box, revealing an exquisite packaging box inside.


    "Heavens! They''re roses from Roseonly! These flowers are insanely expensive! Chuanchuan, your boyfriend must love you!" Xu Xiaomei screamed.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan reacted as if she did not hear Xu Xiaomei screaming as she idly stared at the beautiful box.


    At this point, Xu Chuanchuan no longer doubted that Murong Shi had sent these flowers.


    When they were watching the Korean drama a few days ago, there was one scene where the male lead brought an exquisite box to invite the female lead on a date. When the female lead opened the box, lying inside was a bouquet of roses.


    The scene moved Xu Chuanchuan, and she casually said, "Hah I''ve never had anyone give me flowers before."


    Then, Murong Shi asked, "Did nobody try to pursue you before?"


    "Even you have never pursued after me before."[1]


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan drylyughed for a moment before saying, "There was a boy who asked me out during high school. He even bought me a cup of milk tea. But I didn''t like how he was short and ugly, so I rejected him."


    Murong Shi chuckled when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s tale. Then, she jokingly said, "Thank goodness that person was short and ugly. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have had the opportunity to im you for myself."


    It was only an unintentionalmentation. Xu Chuanchuan never thought that Murong Shi would secretly buy her flowers because of that incident. Though, after she got over the surprise, she couldn''t help but be moved.


    However, when Xu Xiaomei told her the price of those flowers, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wince in pain. After leaving the front desk, she secretly went to look for Murong Shi.


    Meanwhile, as if knowing that Xu Chuanchuan woulde, Murong Shi smiled and asked, "Did you receive the flowers?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded. Then, she walked over to Murong Shi and said, "I did, thank you. But it''s too expensive. Why must you buy such expensive things every time? It''s such a waste. Can it be refunded?"


    Murong Shi''s smile stiffened immediately. Then, she lightly tapped Xu Chuanchuan''s head and said, "The price isn''t the point. Can you stop being so stingy?"


    On the way here, Xu Chuanchuan did an online search and found out that this particr bouquet of roses she received implied the meaning of "one love, one lifetime." She was deeply moved when she finished reading the product description. She also instantly found the roses in her hand bing incredibly heavy.


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had received flowers from someone. It was even such an expensive gift. So, although she felt happy from the bottom of her heart, she also panicked a little.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi didn''tck money, but their difference in outlook toward money still troubled her significantly.


    Compared to before they had officialized their rtionship, Murong Shi''s current treatment toward her was wonderful. It was so wonderful that Xu Chuanchuan found it a little unrealistic.


    Hence, although Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to ruin such a romantic moment, she still ended up saying, "Don''t buy such expensive gifts in the future. It''ll stress me out, otherwise."


    "How so?"


    "I''m not trying to be stingy. It''s just thatI still owe you money. If I don''t live frugally, I don''t know when I can finish paying you back."


    Murong Shi fell silent for a moment. Then, she said, "I only wanted to surprise you. I didn''t think it would end up stressing you instead."


    "I was really surprised. I''m also very happy," Xu Chuanchuan said as she embraced Murong Shi. Then, she continued, "But you have to promise me that you won''t spend more than 100 yuan for any gifts you get me from now on."


    "That''s not even enough for a meal," Murong Shi said, stunned.


    "I don''t care. I won''t ept anything more expensive than that. Also, I''m paying for our meals for the rest of the month. I won''t ept any negotiations."


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry over this situation. However, she also knew that her lover could sometimes be as stubborn as an ox. So, Murong Shi unconditionally cooperated with Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt to salvage her dignity, letting Xu Chuanchuan pay for all of their meals for the rest of the month except for that one gathering.


    When the end of August arrived, Little Yan concluded her "internship" as Murong Shi''s assistant, and Murong Shi decided to arrange a farewell banquet for her.


    Although only five people attended the banquet, Murong Shi had booked a luxurious KTV room.


    Everyone had gone crazy that night, and Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang both got drunk.


    After leaving Xu Xiangxiang to Fang Qin, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi supported Little Yan to the car.


    Xu Chuanchuan got into the driver''s seat and looked through the rear-view mirror. As she watched Murong Shi take care of Little Yan, she asked, "Are you going to find a new assistant once Little Yan leaves?"


    "That won''t be necessary. Linda will be returning in a few days," Murong Shi replied.


    Speaking of Linda, it had already been three months since she had left. The time Linda started going on leave was also around the time Xu Chuanchuan had officially got together with Murong Shi, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but sigh at how quickly time had passed.


    After settling Little Yan into her room, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi washed up and returned to their room. Xu Chuanchuan decided to skip writing for today and instead fiddle with her phone on the bed as it was prettyte already.


    "It''ste; stop ying," Murong Shi said as she leaned into Xu Chuanchuan and gave her hair a sniff.


    Xu Chuanchuan did not resist when Murong Shi took her phone away. Just as she was stretching her body and was about to say, "Let''s sleep, then," Murong Shi stole her lips.


    Although they had shared the same bed every day for the past few weeks, it had already been a long time since they had been so intimate with each other. Murong Shi was both passionate and eager after getting a little alcohol in her system, and the simple goodnight kiss she originally nned for evolved into somethingpletely different.


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered when she felt the cool air from the air conditioner hitting her exposed shoulders. Then, she pushed against the person on top of her.


    Murong Shi''s eyes were like ck holes as she stared at Xu Chuanchuan for a long time. Eventually, she lightly sighed and said, "Let''s sleep. Goodnight."


    Before turning off the lights, Xu Chuanchuan took a look at the dead branches disyed on the bedside table.


    These were the roses from Roseonly Murong Shi had previously gifted her, and there were a total of 19 stalks. Xu Chuanchuan had gone out of her way to buy a vase from the supermarket, filled it with water, and ced the roses in it to prolong their lifespan. However, after several weeks had gone by, the roses had long since wilted. By now, even the leaves had withered, and the branches had turned moldy. Even so, she still couldn''t bring herself to throw them away.


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled the meaning the bouquet implied, mixed feelings welled up within her. As a result, she couldn''t fall asleep even after turning off the lights and lying down.


    After struggling and failing to sleep for a while longer, Xu Chuanchuan fumbled in the dark for a moment and turned on the lights.


    "What''s the matter?" Murong Shi asked while shielding her eyes from the dazzling light.


    The night was strangely quiet. Xu Chuanchuan moved her lips a little before rolling over and kissing Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi fell into a daze for a few seconds before she reacted. Then, she began fiercely responding to Xu Chuanchuan''s approach.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan quickly held down Murong Shi''s hands and said, "I''ll do it."


    Murong Shi was very surprised. However, she didn''t hesitate for long before picking Xu Chuanchuan up and cing the shorter woman on top of her body.


    ...


    After the deed...


    Xu Chuanchuan was thoroughly exhausted. Both her hands and tongue felt sore, and her entire body felt drained as she weaklyid on top of Murong Shi''s body.


    Murong Shi gave a pat on Xu Chuanchuan''s inner thigh, her voiceing from Xu Chuanchuan''s bottom as she said, "Get up. Don''t tell me you want to sleep in this position?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered. She struggled for some time before she managed to sit up and roll off of Murong Shi. Afterward, sheid still and had no intentions of moving whatsoever.


    Then, Murong Shi hauled Xu Chuanchuan into her arms and gave her a soft kiss before asking, "Does it still hurt?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head.


    "Did it feel good?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded with a blush.


    "Did you like it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face turned even redder. However, she eventually pursed her lips and nodded again.


    Murong Shi immediately revealed a happy smile. Then, she said, "See? I told you it wouldn''t hurt anymore, yet you refuse to believe me."


    Xu Chuanchuan covered her face to hide her embarrassment. Then, she peeked at Murong Shi through the gaps of her fingers and said in a timid voice, "You still didn''t...orgasm..."


    Murong Shi slowly pulled apart Xu Chuanchuan''s fingers one by one. Then, she tugged at her lover''s reddened cheeks and teasingly said, "It means you still aren''t sufficiently skilled."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Although Murong Shi had spoken nonchntly, her words had got Xu Chuanchuan thinking.


    The inability to satisfy one''s partner was a severe problem. It was very unfair to the other party.


    After hesitating for a long time, Xu Chuanchuan secretly opened up herputer, looked for the zipped folder she had partially downloaded before, and resumed downloading it.


    TL Notes:


    [1]Even you have never pursued after me before: What Xu Chuanchuan means here is that Murong Shi has never done any of the actions one would normally take when chasing after a love interest, such as offering presents. Instead, Murong Shi bluntly asked to start a rtionship. The entire process looked more like a business deal than courtship.

 Chapter 69: Pt.1

    Chapter 69: Pt.1


    After living together for some time, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi gradually understood each other''s habits. Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi would typically spend half an hour showering. So, taking advantage of the time Murong Shi was absent from the room, Xu Chuanchuan locked the door and began "learning" in earnest.


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had ever watched something so stimting, so she grew so nervous that she started sweating.


    She dared not be too greedy. After seeing that time was almost up, she quickly turned off the video and unlocked the door.


    When Murong Shi returned, she saw Xu Chuanchuan sitting upright in front of theputer and rhythmically typing away at the keyboard. Xu Chuanchuan looked focused on her work, and nothing about her seemed out of the ordinary.


    In reality, though, Xu Chuanchuan''s mind wasn''t on her work at all. Even her fingers were just typing out random words on the keyboard. Rather than her novels, the indescribable scenes she had just seen currently filled her mind.


    Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan had hidden her thoughts sufficiently well. At the very least, Murong Shi didn''t notice any peculiarities this time.


    However, to err is human.


    A few dayster, after Xu Chuanchuan personally verified that Murong Shi had entered the bathroom, she returned to their room, locked the door, and opened up another "research" video. Just when she was about to put on her earphones, she suddenly heard the twisting of the doorknob.


    The earphones fell out of Xu Chuanchuan''s hands as her soul left her body. Then, she heard Murong Shi''s voiceing through the door, "Why''s the door locked?"


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly closed the video yer and opened an empty document. Then, under Murong Shi''s repeated urging, she sprinted to the door before she could sort out her flustered mood.


    Murong Shi was currently wrapped in only a bath towel, exposing her thin shoulders and delicate corbone. Her long and attractive legs were also revealed for all to see.


    Xu Chuanchuan had already seen Murong Shi''s undressed state many times before. Logically, she shouldn''t be too surprised to see Murong Shi''s current appearance. However, Xu Chuanchuan had just put herself in the mood to watch adult videos, so when she saw Murong Shi''s current appearance, she couldn''t help herself from drooling.


    Murong Shi was too beautiful, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but think of pouncing on her.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan quickly shook her head and reeled back her sanity. Then, she said, "You''re done already?"


    "I haven''t started showering yet. I forgot my eyebrow razor," Murong Shi said. Then, looking at Xu Chuanchuan suspiciously, Murong Shi asked, "Why did you lock the door?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes wandered about in a panic. Then, she lied, "I don''t know. I must''ve identally locked it."


    If it were under normal circumstances, Murong Shi wouldn''t have doubted Xu Chuanchuan''s words. However, she had a clear understanding of her partner''s weaknesses, so she could tell Xu Chuanchuan was lying at a nce.


    Then, Murong Shi reached out to touch Xu Chuanchuan''s face before she asked, "Why is your face so red?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her guilty conscience growing even stronger at Murong Shi''s touch. Grabbing Murong Shi''s hand, she awkwardly smiled and said, "I was looking for something just now."


    "What were you looking for?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had a faint feeling that Murong Shi had seen through her lie already. However, she still held down her embarrassment and continued pretending, saying, "I was...looking for a clip! My bangs are blocking my eyes, so I wanted to use a clip to hold them up."


    "Did you find it?" Murong Shi calmly asked.


    "I didn''t."


    Murong Shi circled Xu Chuanchuan and walked to the table where she put her cosmetic products on. After searching through her cosmetic bag for some time, she pulled out a thin rubber band and said, "I don''t have a clip, either. I only found this thing."


    Xu Chuanchuan secretly sighed in relief when Murong Shi stopped questioning her. Then, she reached for the rubber band and said, "I''ll use that, then."


    "I''ll do it," Murong Shi said, evading Xu Chuanchuan''s extended hand. Half a minuteter, she said, "It''s done. I tied a bun for you."


    "Thanks. I''ll go back to writing now."


    "Go ahead," Murong Shi said as she watched Xu Chuanchuan turn away. However, she did not proceed to find her eyebrow razor.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t notice a thing as she sat back in front of herputer. Then, she clicked her cursor on the nk document and rested her fingers on the keyboard. Before she could start typing, she suddenly heard a voiceing from behind her, saying, "You haven''t written a word even after such a long time. Did you get writer''s block again?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly had a heart attack. Then, she patted her chest and eximed, "You scared me!"


    However, Murong Shi continued staring at Xu Chuanchuan''s face without remorse before she said, "You''re behaving strangely today."


    "I"


    "You weren''t writing. You were watching a video just now," Murong Shi interrupted as she pointed at the bottom-right corner of the monitor.


    Xu Chuanchuan followed Murong Shi''s finger and found the icon of a certain video yer located at the bottom-right corner of her screen. Unfortunately, while she had closed the video yer, the program was still running in the background, so the icon remained disyed on her system taskbar. In her panic just now, she had actually forgotten about this minor detail


    Then, putting on a forced smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I was cking off just now. I''ll start writing now."


    However, Murong Shi held down Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and said, "Is there a need to lock the door if you''re only watching a video? Your face has also turned red to such an extent. What exactly were you watching?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "I''m a little curious." Murong Shi looked at the video yer''s icon before turning to look at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she asked, "Chuanchuan, is there even a need to keep secrets between us?"


    <em>I can''t hide it any longer. </em>After taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan carefully said, "Ange sent me a zipped folder some time ago."


    "Hm?"


    "Inside it, there were a lot of videos showing lesbians...doing that"


    "Did she take the initiative to send them to you?" Murong Shi asked with muddy emotions in her eyes.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan blushed and timidly said, "I asked her for them"


    Murong Shi subconsciously strengthened her hold over Xu Chuanchuan''s hands. Then, she said in disbelief, "You''ve been monopolizing such interesting things?"


    "Uh"


    "That''s cruel of you," Murong Shi said. Then, she put on a yful smile before continuing, "Don''t tell me it''s because I said your skills were badst time?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan grew even more embarrassed at having her actions exposed. Then, while averting Murong Shi''s eyes, she said, "Do you want to watch them, too?"


    Murong Shi retracted her smile and pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s burning cheeks. Then, she said, "I''ve never watched any before. I''ll watch them together with youter."


    <em>Together That won''t be simple learning anymore</em> When Xu Chuanchuan thought of the most likely thing to happen if she watched porn together with Murong Shi, the blood in her body began pumping immediately.


    Amidst her fantasies, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt herself being picked up. Then, Murong Shi dragged her out of the room by her waist while saying, "Let''s shower together to save time."


    "I haven''t taken any clothes yet!" Xu Chuanchuan screamed.


    "Why bother? You''re going to take them offter anyway."


    "..."


    Half an hourter


    There was only one chair in the room. Xu Chuanchuan initially thought to go next door to grab the chair there, but Murong Shi picked her up and sat her on her thighs before she could do so.


    After wrapping her arms around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist, Murong Shi rested her chin on Xu Chuanchuan''s right shoulder and said, "Let''s see what types there are avable."


    As instructed, Xu Chuanchuan moved her mouse''s cursor to a certain folder. When Murong Shi saw this folder''s name, she burst outughing and said, "How did you think of such an interesting name?"


    After gently stabbing her elbow into the person behind her, Xu Chuanchuan clicked on the folder named "Foreign Language Study Materials." There were over a dozen video files inside, and all of them were named using unknown Japanese characters.


    After moving her cursor across the names of the video files, Xu Chuanchuan exined with a poker face, "Because they are learning materials. Look, you can even learn Japanese from watching these."


    While suppressing a smile, Murong Shi asked, "So, what have you learned after watching them for so many days?"


    "Yamete, iku iku Um, these two are the simplest and appear the most," Xu Chuanchuan said.


    Puzzled, Murong Shi asked, "What do they mean?"


    A slight blush appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face when she saw the burning desire to learn in Murong Shi''s eyes. Then, she said, "Yamete means ''stop, stop,'' while iku iku means"


    "Means what?"


    "When the women in the video are close to cumming, they would always say ''iku iku,'' so I''m guessingit probably means something along the lines of ''feeling good?''"


    Murong Shi''s expression became very rich for a moment. Then, her eyes darkened as she said, "You''ve turned naughty."


    "<em>Cough</em> So, are we still watching?"


    "Of course."


    Ange sent the message in the morning, and Xu Chuanchuan only saw it when she returned to the dormitory for an afternoon nap. When she opened up the screenshot, she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "This is Murong."


    Ange: "Isn''t her ount called I Love Chuanchuan? Why did it be Sensitive Little Whale?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but haveplex feelings when she read Ange''s message. After all, the word "Sensitive" wasn''t there thest time she saw Murong Shi''s nickname on jjwxc''s tform. It was evident that Murong Shi had changed her nickname only recently.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Just treat it as her brain having a few screws loose. o()o"


    Ange: "Why did she give me so many Deep-waters, then? Hasn''t she been treating me as her imaginary love rival all this time? Did she donate to me by mistake? Or did she take the wrong medicine?"


    Although Murong Shi had never told her about this matter, Xu Chuanchuan could roughly guess the reason for her actions.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Maybe it''s to thank you for sending me so many good resources. [Shy]"


    Ange: "Oh? You two watched those vids together?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "[Cover face]"


    Ange: "So, is your problem resolved now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Mostly Don''t ask. [Cover face]"


    Ange: "Fine, fine, fine. I''ll stop asking. Anyways, help me thank her for the Deep-waters. I''m going back to writing now."


    When Murng Shi entered the room and saw Xu Chuanchuan holding onto her phone with a stupid smile on her face, she asked, "Who were you chatting with?"


    Xu Chuanchuan rubbed her boiling face for a moment. Then, she moved to the other side of the bed and said, "Ange. She saw the Deep-waters you sent her. She wants me to thank you."


    After climbing onto the bed andying down sideways beside Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "What''s there to thank? I can''t possibly take her things for free. By the way, transfer those videos to theptop for me when you''re free."


    "Why?"


    "So that I can bring them around and learn from them when it''s convenient."


    "...How can you talk about such perverted things with a straight face?"


    In response, Murong Shi ran her palm across Xu Chuanchuan''s chest ambiguously and said, "I''m talking about learning Japanese with Teacher Xu. How is that perverted?"


    Wearing a mourning look, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Why did I be the teacher? You''re the one who''s..."


    Smiling, Murong Shi gently tapped a finger on Xu Chuanchuan''s lips and said, "Your moans sound much better than the women in those videos."


    After letting out a cry, Xu Chuanchuan covered Murong Shi''s face with a pillow and shouted, "No fooling around in broad daylight!"


    Their lunch break was a precious time for resting, so Murong Shi naturally wouldn''t mess around. After she was done joking, she grabbed the pillow from Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and stuffed it under the shorter woman''s head, saying, "Sleep."


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly calmed down. Before shutting her eyes, she suddenly thought of a question. "Is Lindaing back soon?"


    "Tomorrow."


    "So soon?!"


    Murong Shi''s eyes were starting to get blurry as she nonchntly asked, "Why are you caring about her all of a sudden?"


    Turning to face Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan said, "If Linda returns, you won''t be able toe up in the afternoon anymore."


    Murong Shi''s eyes snapped wide open, her sleepiness vanishing as she asked, "Why?"


    ------


    Hihi!I just started tranting a new novel titled The Tale of Hero Alice''s Social Death (Pantsu Hero Alice)PHA is a light-hearted novel about Alice going around solving problems and defeating enemies (mainly) pantsu/panties/female underwear. PHA isn''t exactly a yuri novel, but practically all of the main cast are female. While the story is quite generic, with the only unique thing being the MC using panties as weapons, PHA has a solid and believable setting. If you have some spare time and nothing better to read, please give it a try. :)Novel Link: /23/novel/the-tale-of-hero-alices-social-death-pantsu-hero-alice---Also, if you would like to support ABBR and read ahead, feel free to check out my patreon.Patreon Link: /hellscytheAnd as always, thank you for reading ABBR. :)-Hellscythe, 10th July 2021p.s.For those wondering, I''ll be picking up another yuri novel once ABBR ends. I still haven''t decided on which yuri novel I''m gonna trante, though. If you have any rmendations, feel free to leave it in thements (Yes, I read thements on a daily basis) or ping me through discord. However, please make sure the novels fulfill the following requirements:1) No "death of loved ones." As in, MC and FL doesn''t die at the end.2) No short stories. At least something with ~80 chapters. I still need to make a living. :(

 Chapter 69: Pt.2

    Chapter 69: Pt.2


    "If youe up, won''t our rtionship get exposed? Or do you n on telling Linda about us?"


    Murong Shi fell silent upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s words, seemingly contemting her options.


    "Is Linda reliable?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    Shaking her head, Murong Shi said, "I have only interacted with her for a short period. While she is excellent when ites to working, her personality is I still haven''t fully understood her for the moment."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan shrugged and said, "So, it''s best if you avoid suspicion for now."


    Murong Shi frowned. Then, she said in a somber tone, "Why does it sound like she''s the main wife while I''m the mistress?"


    "Pft Haha" Xu Chuanchuan burst outughing when she heard Murong Shi''s description of herself. "How can you say that of yourself?"


    Maintaining a straight face, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s soft belly and said in a slightly resentful tone, "You''re not allowed tough."


    Xu Chuanchuan held back herughter. Then, she consoled, "If the afternoon is no good, you can juste at night since Linda won''t be here."


    Murong Shi''s face sank. In an even unhappier tone, she said, "You''re making me sound like we''re having a secret affair more and more, you terrible woman."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Linda''s return was low-profile. After not seeing each other for three months, Xu Chuanchuan found that Linda had gotten skinnier. Although she was stillpetent at dressing up, she no longer looked as morous as before.


    Through the asional gossip Xu Chuanchuan heard, she found out that Linda''s abrupt leave was because her father''s lung cancer had reached the terminal stage, and she had returned to stay by her father day and night. Unfortunately, human life was a fragile thing, and Linda''s father eventually sumbed to his illness and passed away a week ago.


    Even before Linda had left, Xu Chuanchuan never shared a particrly good rtionship with the woman. Now that Linda had returned with a worse mental state, Xu Chuanchuan was even more afraid of provoking her.


    When Xu Chuanchuan came across Linda in the dormitory, she simply greeted the other party by saying, "You''re back?"


    Linda simply replied with an "Mhm" before going silent.


    Xu Chuanchuan had already gotten used to this situation, so she simply walked toward her room and opened the door. Just as she was about to enter her room, she suddenly heard Linda asking, "Little Xu, did you have someone stay over here before?"


    <em>Did she discover something?</em> Pretending to be calm, Xu Chuanchuan said, "No?"


    "Why are there two sets of toiletries in the bathroom, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan inwardly cursed in this situation. Because of their messing aroundst night, she and Murong Shi woke upte today. So, they were in a hurry when they left for work, and she had utterly forgotten to store away Murong Shi''s possessions in the bathroom.


    After anxiously thinking up an excuse, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Little Yan left those behind. You should know about Little Yan, right? She''s Miss Murong''s cousin. She''s been working as Miss Murong''s temporary assistant while you were away."


    Realization dawned upon Linda. Then, she smiled and said, "This, I know. Miss Murong mentioned it to me before. I see, so that''s the case. Alright, then."


    After sessfully dodging a bullet, Xu Chuanchuan slipped into the bathroom and hurriedly stored Murong Shi''s belongings away.


    Apart from toiletries, Murong Shi had also left her clothes hanging on the balcony. Xu Chuanchuan quickly collected them before Linda noticed. Then, she did a thorough inspection of the apartment''s shared space to make sure she didn''t leave anything out. Only after doing so did she rx.


    Xu Chuanchuan had worked up a sweat by the time she was done collecting Murong Shi''s belongings. However, after returning to her room and closing the door behind her, she was immediately greeted by the sight of Murong Shi''s belongings scattered all over the room. Then, when she recalled Murong Shi''sints yesterday, she couldn''t help butugh.


    This situation indeed made them look like they were having an affair.


    During the day, Murong Shi had reverted to her aloof appearance of a leader in front of Linda. Whenever she came across Xu Chuanchuan, she would pretend as if they did not know each other. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan also only greeted her with a simple nod.


    However, when nighttime arrived, Murong Shi would tear away all disguises and vent all of the frustration she built up during the day on Xu Chuanchuan, causing thetter to cry and moan in agony repeatedly.


    After doing the deed, Murong Shi even pretended to be aggrieved and asked, "When can I be the main wife?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body was still twitching from the lingering euphoria. As her empty mind gradually regained consciousness, she pitifully said, "But you are the main wife. Nobody''s fighting you for the position."


    pping Xu Chuanchuan''s buttocks, Murong Shi said, "Living this secretive lifestyle is frustrating. Why don''t we move out?"


    "Do you have too much money to waste?"


    After pondering in earnest for a moment, Murong Shi said, "A lot. At the very least, I''ll have enough to feed you."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a warm feeling spread throughout her body when she heard Murong Shi''s words. However, after her momentary joy, she quickly regained her reasoning and said, "No, that''s too wasteful."


    "Don''t worry. We won''t be spending any of your money."


    "That makes it an even bigger no. I can''t spend your money for nothing."


    Murong Shi opened her mouth but hesitated to speak.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan covered Murong Shi''s mouth and continued, "I won''t negotiate on this matter. Firstly, we are equals. I don''t need you to feed me. Secondly, I want to work hard to earn money. I also need to strive to save money. Only then can I pay back the money I owe you as quickly as possible."


    Pulling Xu Chuanchuan''s hands away, Murong Shi put on a helpless look and asked, "Must you be so nitpicky with me?"


    "Even blood-rted siblings need to settle ounts between themselves. Murong, please try to understand and respect my decision."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t an assertive person. She also couldn''t be considered an excellent person, and she would even behave very timidly sometimes. Overall, there were hardly any eye-catching strong points present on her. However, Murong Shi could still see a charming gleam in those stubborn eyes of hers.


    This was the person she, Murong Shi, had chosen.


    Xu Chuanchuan might be dumb, but she was hardworking. Although she was stingy, she never took advantage of others. Murong Shi felt that such a person was worthy of her heart.


    Feeling her heart melting, Murong Shi had no desire to say anything at this moment. She also couldn''t help herself from giving Xu Chuanchuan a gentle kiss.


    On the day Little Yan started her first day of university, Murong Shi brought Xu Chuanchuan together to send her to school.


    Although Little Yan was studying at a local university, she still had to stay at the school''s dormitory because of the distance between her house and the university. Little Yan brought two big suitcases with her and a white teddy bear that was as tall as herself. While hugging the teddy bear at the back of the car, she said, "Xiangxiang''sing overter."


    "Has her school not reopened yet?" Murong Shi asked the person sitting beside her.


    "I think it starts today as well," Xu Chuanchuan said.


    "Xiangxiang says she doesn''t have much luggage to move, so she decided toe to visit me," Little Yan interjected.


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "The rtionship between you two is getting better and better."


    "Of course. Xiangxiang took care of me a bunch thest time we went to the beach, so I prepared this teddy bear as a gift for her."


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled but did not continue speaking.


    When they arrived at Nanjing University''s entrance, they came across Xu Xiangxiang, who had been waiting for quite some time now.


    Murong Shi was a graduate of Nanjing University, so she was very familiar with the ce, and they found Little Yan''s dormitory in no time.


    The efficiency of four people working together was high, and it took them only a short period to help Little Yan settle in. As the weather was scorching, Murong Shi treated the group to some coffee in a nearby Starbucks.


    After sitting down, Xu Xiangxiang looked at Xu Chuanchuan, who sat across from her, and asked, "Sis, did you not get enough sleep? You have pretty dark circles under your eyes."


    Xu Chuanchuan nced at the person sitting beside her when she heard her little sister''s question. Then, with a straight face, she said, "The air conditioner broke down, so I couldn''t sleep wellst night."


    "Oh, so the air conditioner broke down. My cousin hates the heat the most," Little Yan said, winking.


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head and sipped her coffee to hide her embarrassment.


    Xu Chuanchuan failed to understand what Little Yan was trying to say. However, she didn''t try to probe deeper, either, as she said, "What have you been up to at night recently? Whenever I message you, you only reply to me the next day. I don''t believe you''re sleeping so early."


    "I don''t believe it, either," Little Yan said with a yful smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched as she said, "Little Yan, stop making a fuss."


    "Little Yan, do you know what she''s been doing at night?" Xu Xiangxiang asked innocently.


    After sensing Murong Shi''s indifferent gazending on her, Little Yan hurriedly shook her head and said, "No, no, no. I don''t know anything."


    Xu Xiangxiang was thoroughly confused at this point. Then, she looked at Murong Shi and asked, "Big Sis Shishi, do you know something?"


    Xu Chuanchuan pinched Murong Shi''s thigh under the table.


    Murong Shi''s face remained calm and steady. Then, shezily looked at the nervous person beside her and smiled, saying, "Your sister has indeed been very busy at night recently."


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately red at Murong Shi, warning her.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly asked, "What is she up to? Has she been going on dates?"


    Little Yan revealed a silly smile when she heard Xu Xiangxiang''s guess.


    Ignoring Xu Chuanchuan''s warning, Murong Shi held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand under the table and leisurely said, "She''s busy learning a foreignnguage."


    Surprised, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Learning a foreignnguage? Which one? Sis, are you going to tour another country?"


    Xu Chuanchuan refused to answer any of these questions. However, she also knew that her little sister was someone who would get to the bottom of matters that interested her, so she gritted her teeth and said, "Don''t listen to her nonsense."


    "What''s taking you so long to reply to my messages, then?" Xu Xiangxiang asked relentlessly.


    Xu Chuanchuan started to get a headache over this matter. Then, she impatiently said, "Why do you have so many questions? Do you still want to drink your coffee? I''ll drink it if you don''t want it."


    Xu Xiangxiang quickly guarded her coffee and said, "I''m just asking why you''re taking so long to reply to my messages. Why are you getting mad? You''re so strange."


    "..." Realizing that her attitude was not right, Xu Chuanchuan calmed herself and said, "I''m not mad at you. I''ve been watching a drama series recently, so I haven''t been paying attention to my phone at night."


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang snorted in dissatisfaction. However, she did not probe further into the matter.


    After they left Nanjing University in the afternoon, Xu Chuanchuan immediately exploded in the car. "Were you doing it on purpose?"


    "What''s there to be afraid of? Xiangxiang won''t get it, in any case," Murong Shi frankly said.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan decided to ignore Murong Shi and started fiddling with her phone.


    "Who are you talking to?"


    "Ange," Xu Chuanchuan said in an attempt to spite Murong Shi.


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi said, "Just in time. Ask her if she has any new research materials. Send some over if she does."


    Xu Chuanchuan stared at Murong Shi as if she had just seen a ghost. "Did you get addicted???"


    "There are too few variations. It''s getting boring."


    "..."


    When Xu Chuanchuan forwarded Murong Shi''s words to Ange


    Ange: "That''s enough from you two! I''m not a porn dealer! Find your own research materials!"

 Chapter 70: Pt.1

    Chapter 70: Pt.1


    Ever since they started living together, Murong Shi would rarely return to her home. Though, she would still asionally return with Xu Chuanchuan to have a meal with her family.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan found these home visits to be quite embarrassing. However, after experiencing Aunt Lian''s and Murong Mingshu''s sincerity and enthusiasm, she felt like she was returning to her own home when visiting Murong Shi''s house.


    Meanwhile, after finishing their meal, they would either return to thepany if it was still early or stay the night if it waste.


    On a certain Friday night


    Murong Shi''s room was very spacious. There was even a hanging chair ced by the room''s window wall. When Xu Chuanchuan curled herself up inside it, emptied her head of thoughts, and looked out at the mesmerizing night view outside, she found herself feeling at ease.


    At this time, Murong Shi quietly approached Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Are you asleep?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan deliberately shut her eyes and said, "Don''t disturb me. I''m dreaming."


    Bending down, Murong Shi smiled and asked, "What are you dreaming? Am I in your dream?"


    "Who are you?"


    Murong Shi leaned forward, her breath gently hitting Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Then, pretending to be upset, she said, "You ungrateful little thing. Who do you think I am?"


    Murong Shi opened a thin slit in her eyes to sneak a peek. Then, she held the face of the person in front of her and started feeling around with her hands, ying the role of a blind person as she said, "How strange. You look like my girlfriend."


    "Your girlfriend?" Murong Shi yed along with Xu Chuanchuan''s act.


    "That''s right. You look as beautiful as her."


    "Thenhow about ditching your girlfriend anding with me?"


    "To where?"


    Although their y was going well, Murong Shi had lost her patience. Immediately, she inserted her hands into Xu Chuanchuan''s armpits and picked thetter up, saying, "To the shower, youzy pig. Are you still going to sleep or not?"


    Xu Chuanchuan chuckled and opened her eyes. However, when she felt her body suddenly being lifted off the chair, she let out a cry and held onto Murong Shi''s neck. "My god, I just realized you''re much stronger than me!"


    After firmly holding onto Xu Chuanchuan''s buttocks, Murong Shi said, "All the food you''ve normally eaten has gone to waste."


    Snorting, Xu Chuanchuan pinched Murong Shi''s slender arms and said, "Your arms are just as thin as mine. Between the two of us, who do you think will win if we fight?"


    "Why must we fight?"


    "It''s just a hypothetical situation."


    Laughing, Murong Shi said, "You''ll win regardless of whether it is hypothetical."


    "Why?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in surprise.


    In response, Murong Shi sighed and said, "Silly, how would I be willing to hit you?"


    Xu Chuanchaun was slightly stunned. Then, she hugged Murong Shi even more tightly and smiled, saying, "I feel so happy What should I do?"


    "What do you mean?"


    After burying her head into Murong Shi''s soft and fragrant breasts, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her voice and said, "My parents were constantly busy with work when I was young, so they didn''t have time to take care of me. They even left Xiangxiang''s upbringing to me. My grandma also has a patriarchal attitude, so he doesn''t like me. To make matters worse, I often got into fights with my little sister back then. Hah


    "Nobody has ever loved me as much as you throughout my life. You make me feel"


    Xu Chuanchuan paused twice in her speech. Her tone also sounded somber. Growing a little worried, Murong Shi looked down at her lover''s hidden face and asked, "Are you crying?"


    "I''m not crying. Why would I cry?" Xu Chuanchuan was adept at regting her emotions, and she reverted to her usual tone in the blink of an eye. Then, she kissed Murong Shi and giggled, saying, "Murong, being with you makes me feel like an elder sister is pampering me."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s words instantly ruined the sensational atmosphere. Putting on a slight frown, Murong Shi asked, "I''m your elder sister?"


    "I said you ''feel like'' one."


    "Yet, you''re even having sex with me?"


    This time, it was Xu Chuanchuan''s turn to lose herposure. Then, she said, "You''re so disgusting!"


    In response, Murong Shi revealed a sinister smile and said, "There''s something even more disgusting. Now, this elder sister is going to help her little sister shower."


    Gently hammering Murong Shi''s chest with her fists, Xu Chuanchuan shouted, "Stop with the nonsense!"


    The Japanese films Ange shared came in arge variety of perverseness. Coincidentally, there was one animated film that showed a pair of sisters falling into depravity together. At the time, Xu Chuanchuan dared not watch the film. Now, though, she couldn''t help but wonder whether Murong Shi had secretly watched it behind her back.


    Regardless, Xu Chuanchuan was now determined to remove all of those research materials from both her PC and Murong Shi''sptop. After all, it was simply too embarrassing to keep these things around!


    When the couple was done showering, they began doing indescribable activities on the bed while naked. However, in the heat of the moment, the sound of knocking came from the door all of a sudden.


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped immediately and subconsciously mped her thighs shut. Then, she held up Murong Shi''s waterfall-like hair with her hands and stammered, "S-Someone''s here!"


    Murong Shi''s eyes were filled with turbulent emotions when Xu Chuanchuan lifted her head. Then, while pressing her cheeks against Xu Chuanchuan''s calves, she said, "It''s fine. I locked the door."


    The knocking sound suddenly stopped, and the person outside the room asked, "Are you two asleep?"


    Xu Chuanchuan held her breath.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi calmed her breathing and said, "Not yet. What''s the matter, Aunt Lian?"


    "Your father is back. I just made some supper for him. Do you two want to have some as well?" Aunt Lian asked.


    "Are you hungry?" Murong Shi asked Xu Chuanchuan.


    Feeling her body temperature dropping, Xu Chuanchuan covered herself with the nket and shook her head.


    Then, Murong Shi raised her voice and said to the door, "We''re not eating, so no need for the trouble. Rest earlier, Aunt Lian."


    "Alright, alright," Aunt Lian said and walked away, the sound of footsteps gradually growing distant.


    After Aunt Lian''s footsteps disappearedpletely, Xu Chuanchuan began picking up her scattered clothes in a hurry.


    "What are you doing?" Murong Shi held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist.


    "I don''t want to do it anymore," Xu Chuanchuan said aggrievedly.


    "You don''t want to? Are you for real?"


    Nodding timidly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Big Sister, that close call just now thoroughly scared the hell out of me."


    "..."


    Having sex in someone else''s house certainly wasn''t a safe endeavor. Even with the door locked, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t feel safe.


    As they chose to stay at the Murong household for the weekend, Murong Shi lent Xu Chuanchuan theptop in the study for work. When lunchtime arrived, they went downstairs to eat together with Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian.


    Aunt Lian had made a table full of delicacies, and she enthusiastically served food into Xu Chuanchuan''s bowl one after another.


    ttered by the gesture, Xu Chuanchuan said, "That''s enough, that''s enough. Any more, and I won''t be able to finish, Aunt Lian."


    Murong Mingshu smiled at this sight and said, "She''s just worried that you''re too cautious. We don''t normally have guests visiting our house, and Little Shi only has you and Fang Qin as friends, so make sure to visit more often in the future. You can think of this ce like your own home."


    Murong Mingshu was drastically different from the nobledy Xu Chuanchuan thought her to be. She did not put on any airs, and her temper was mild. Nevertheless, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be moved by the older woman''sst sentence, and her eyes heated up as she opened her mouth to say something.


    However, Murong Shi ced something into Xu Chuanchuan''s bowl at this time, interrupting Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts. When Xu Chuanchuan looked down, she found that it was a piece of chilled okra.


    Then, Murong Shi put on a meaningful smile as she said, "You should eat more of this. It''s good for strengthening the yang within you."[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "What would a girl need to strengthen her yang for?" Murong Mingshu scoffed. "Little Shi, you''re speaking nonsense again."


    "That''s right. Only boys need to strengthen their yang," Aunt Lian added. Then, she changed the topic and asked, "By the way, Chuanchuan, do you have a boyfriend?"


    Although Xu Chuanchuan had visited several times already, the two elders had never asked about her private matters before. And while the current question was a very normal one, Xu Chuanchuan found herself unable to answer.


    After all, there was no way Xu Chuanchuan could provide an adequate answer. If she were to answer "yes," she would be lying to the two elders who had treated her kindly thus far. On the other hand, if she were to answer "no," it would put her into a bind if Aunt Lian tried to rmend a boyfriend to her.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan nced at Murong Shi for help. Unfortunately, Murong Shi did not give her any instructions. So, after mentally struggling with herself for a while, Xu Chuanchuan said, "....No."


    "Why not? Aren''t your parents anxious for you to find one?" Aunt Lian asked.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s parents were indeed anxiously waiting for her to get a boyfriend. Her mother would even call her sometimes to ask her about her rtionship situation. After letting out a dryugh, Xu Chuanchuan held back her embarrassment and said, "There''s no point in rushing such things."


    Upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s answer, Aunt Lian hurriedly said, "That''s true. You can''t rush rtionships. You need to open your eyes and carefully choose the right man for you."


    "Yes, yes, yes," Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly agreed before picking up the chilled okra with her chopsticks and putting it into her mouth.


    Meanwhile, Murong Mingshu sighed and said, "Girls nowadays are bing more and more independent. In my generation, we would get married as soon as possible." Then, she turned to Murong Shi and continued, "But I guess that''s also a good thing. I never liked Little Shi''s previous boyfriend. I knew he was a fickle person at a nce. Thankfully, they broke up in the end."


    "Why are you bringing him up? Let''s eat," Murong Shi said, unwilling to continue on this topic.


    Knowing her daughter''s temper, Murong Mingshu smiled and said, "Okay, okay, okay. We won''t talk about him."


    After sessfully dodging a bullet, Xu Chuanchuan returned to Murong Shi''s room and asked, "I never really asked, but what exactly is your rtionship with Jiang Shaohua?"


    In response, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "There''s nothing between us. We were just using each other."


    "It seems to be raining," Xu Chuanchuan said as she pointed at the drizzle outside. "Sleeping in weather like this is the best."


    Walking over and embracing Xu Chuanchuan from behind, Murong Shi asked, "Do you want to have an afternoon nap?"


    "...We woke up at eleven."


    "Should we go window shopping, then? My mom and Aunt Lian will probably start growing suspicious if we keep staying cooped up in the room."


    After Xu Chuanchuan gave the matter some thought, she nodded to Murong Shi''s suggestion. Then, they grabbed the umbre and left the house.


    Initially, Murong Shi was the one holding the umbre. However, as she was too tall, rainwater carried by the wind kept onnding on the two of them. Finally, after getting fed up with this situation, Xu Chuanchuan snatched the umbre out of Murong Shi''s hand and said, "I''ll hold it."


    When Xu Chuanchuan held the umbre, the umbre was indeed able to shield both of them from the rain. However, the umbre''s lowered elevation also resulted in Murong Shi having her vision blocked. Then, Murong Shiined, "I can''t see."


    "Just follow my footsteps," Xu Chuanchuan said with a delighted smile.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan finished speaking, she felt two arms wrapping around her waist. Then, she heard Murong Shi speaking into her ear, "It''s our first time strolling in the rain. Isn''t it romantic?"


    "It''s not romantic."


    "How so?"


    "You''re heavy. Also, you''re wearing heels, so you''re making me look short."


    In response, Murong Shi smiled and said, "I''m the elder sister while you''re the younger sister, so it''s not strange for me to be taller."


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless by Murong Shi''s reasoning. Then, she said, "But you''re not my blood-rted sister."


    Narrowing her eyes, Murong Shi said, "If I''m not your blood-rted sister, why were you calling me so passionatelyst night?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Because a certain person didn''t get to satisfy her desires that night, the two of them ended up roleying as sisters afterward. This y also continued even after they returned to thepany dormitory.


    When Xu Chuanchuan went to the restroom one day, she came across Murong Shi in the corridor. Although Linda wasn''t present, Xu Chuanchuan still respectfully greeted Murong Shi, saying, "Miss Murong."


    Then, Murong Shi caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s face and said, "What''s with the fact? There''s no need to be so polite between sisters."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched. After looking around and making sure that nobody else was nearby, she said, "Wah, Big Sis, the lipstick you''re using today looks so nice!"


    "Do you want to try it on as well?" Murong Shi asked, her right hand holding up Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and her passionate eyes staring at Xu Chuanchuan''s lips. Then, she started leaning forward.


    Xu Chuanchuan paled when she realized Murong Shi''s intentions. Immediately, she patted Murong Shi''s hand aside and took a step back. Then, she warned in a low voice, "Are you not scared of getting seen by others?!"


    Murong Shi chuckled in response. Then, she stepped aside and said, "Go on, don''t hold it in for too long."


    Xu Chuanchuan sent Murong Shi a re and quickly left for the restroom.


    Xu Chuanchuan thought this was only a small interlude, so she didn''t focus on it.


    One afternoon, Xu Chuanchuan woke up from her afternoon nap and groggily made her way to the bathroom. On her way there, she came across Linda, and the two of them politely greeted each other with a smile.


    Before leaving through the front door, Linda halted her footsteps and looked at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she hesitantly said, "Little Xu, are you and Miss Murong"


    "Hm?"


    At this critical moment, the sound of a phone ringing interrupted their conversation.


    When Xu Chuanchuan held up her phone and saw the words "Big Jealous Bug" disyed on the screen, she guiltily nced at Linda.


    Meanwhile, Linda tacitly said, "It''s fine. I''ll take my leave first."


    TL Notes:


    [1]strengthening the yang within you: trantion - it''s an aphrodisiac.

 Chapter 70: Pt.2

    Chapter 70: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan only dared to answer the call after making sure Linda had left. "What''s the matter?"


    "Aunt Lian said that my mother fainted from a heatstroke. I have to go over and take a look now," Murong Shi said hurriedly.


    Xu Chuanchuan was shocked, and she subconsciously blurted out, "Should I apany you?"


    "No need; I''ll go by myself. Applying for leave is too troublesome, so you stay at work for now. I''ll give you a call afterward."


    The situation looked quite urgent as Murong Shi didn''t even wait for Xu Chuanchuan to respond before cutting the call.


    Did she leave yet?


    Xu Chuanchuan jogged to the first floor in the hopes of catching Murong Shi on her way out. When she saw Murong Shi assigning tasks to Linda at the front desk, she thought of approaching them but hesitated to do so.


    Murong Shi spoke very quickly, and she turned to leave as soon as she finished speaking.


    "Mu" In the end, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help herself from calling out to Murong Shi. However, when she thought about how other people were present, she quickly shut her mouth before she could finish her words.


    Even so, Murong Shi still heard Xu Chuanchuan''s voice. When she turned around and saw that it was indeed Xu Chuanchuan who had just spoken, she walked back a few steps and said, "It''s fine; don''t worry."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t even extend her greetings before Murong Shi left, and she couldn''t help but grow a little worried and annoyed by this situation. Thest time her father had gotten into an ident, Murong Shi had followed her back home without hesitation. Yet, now that Murong Shi hade across problems in her family, she could only look at Murong Shi foolishly without being able to do anything.


    Only after Murong Shi''s figure had disappeared into the distance did Xu Chuanchuan reluctantly retract her gaze. When she turned around and came across Linda''s suspicious gaze, she couldn''t even be bothered to make up an excuse before walking away with a heavy heart.


    After spending an hour working in anxiety, Xu Chuanchuan finally received a call from Murong Shi telling her that Murong Mingshu was alright.


    Sighing in relief, Xu Chuanchuan said, "That''s good, then."


    However, despite knowing that Murong Mingshu was alright, Xu Chuanchuan still decided to visit in person to ease her mind.


    After getting off work, Xu Chuanchuan tidied up her office desk and got ready to visit Murong Mingshu. However, as she didn''t bring her wallet with her to work, she had to make a trip back to the dormitory to get it. Unexpectedly, she came across Linda when she opened the door.


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little surprised by this situation. Typically, Linda would leave thepany building after getting off work, so it was very unusual to see her in the dormitory at this time. After calming herself, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You still haven''t left?"


    In response, Linda held up the item in her hand and said, "I forgot my charger. I''ll be leaving right away."


    "Oh."


    "Aren''t you going to go have dinner?"


    "I came back to grab my wallet. I''ll go in a moment," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling.


    Nodding, Linda said, "In that case, I''ll take my leave first. See you tomorrow."


    "See you tomorrow."


    "By the way, Little Xu." Suddenly, Linda turned around and stared at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she said, "I have a question to ask you."


    Even though Linda wore a look of nonchnce on her face, Xu Chuanchuan found herself getting goosebumps when Linda looked at her. Then, while trying to maintain herposure, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What question?"


    Linda fell silent for a moment. Then, she looked toward the coffee table in the living room and said, "Is that YSL lipstick yours? I found it under the coffee table, so I picked it up for you."


    <em>Lipstick?</em> Xu Chuanchuan followed Linda''s gaze, and sure enough, there was a tube of lipstick ced on the coffee table. Xu Chuanchuan''s heart also thumped when she saw that lipstick.


    That tube of lipstick belonged to Murong Shi.


    On the night before yesterday, Murong Shi had suggested giving Xu Chuanchuan a makeover out of boredom. The lipstick she used at the time was none other than the one currently sitting on the coffee table. At the time, they had started fooling around halfway through the makeover, and their haphazard movements had sent Murong Shi''s cosmetic products falling all over the floor. Although they had collected the fallen cosmetic products after they were done fooling around, they had evidently missed one.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly withdrew her gaze from the lipstick. Then, pretending to be calm, she smiled and said, "That''s right, I dropped it. I''ve been looking for it for quite some time now, so thanks."


    However, Linda did not respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s words of gratitude. Instead, she said, "But I don''t recall you ever putting on any makeup before."


    <em>Must you be so observant</em> Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to continue lying in this situation. "I still put some on in private. It''s just that I do it infrequently."


    Linda hesitated to continue speaking.


    "I''ll go look for my wallet now," Xu Chuanchuan gave an excuse to leave.


    "Wait," Linda called out to Xu Chuanchuan once more.


    "Is there anything else?"


    Without giving Xu Chuanchuan any time to mentally prepare herself, Linda frankly asked, "What exactly is your rtionship with Miss Murong?"


    As soon as Linda finished speaking, Xu Chuanchuan guessed that Linda must''ve noticed something. While inwardly telling herself to stay calm, Xu Chuanchuan forced herself to smile and said, "A subordinate and her superior. What other rtionship can I have with her?"


    Linda observed Xu Chuanchuan with a questioning gaze for a long time, so long that Xu Chuanchuan started sweating from her palms. After a few more moments, Linda finally said, "Don''t be so nervous. I was just casually asking."


    <em>I doubt that.</em> Xu Chuanchuan did not follow up with Linda''s words.


    "Last question."


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the urge to run away.


    However, Linda gave Xu Chuanchuan no opportunities to flee as she asked, "You should be going to meet up with Miss Murong afterward, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that this situation was strange. She and Linda rarely ever talked to each other under normal circumstances. Yet, today, Linda had not only taken the initiative to strike up a conversation with her, but the woman was even talking so much. To avoid exposing any crucial information, Xu Chuanchuan chose to purse her lips and stay silent.


    Linda didn''t mind Xu Chuanchuan''s refusal to answer. She also didn''t hurry to leave. On the contrary, she even deliberately slowed down her speech as she said, "That day in the printing room I saw it."


    <em>Saw what?</em> Although Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t so dumb as to ask what Linda was referring to, she roughly understood what Linda was talking about.


    A few days ago, Xu Chuanchuan had many materials she needed to print, so she had stayed cooped up in the printing room for a long time. Partway through the process, Murong Shi happened to walk past the printing room and saw Xu Chuanchuan inside. Afterward, Murong Shi secretly snuck into the room, locked the door behind her, and embraced Xu Chuanchuan from behind.


    Given a huge scare, Xu Chuanchuan cried out, "What are you doing?!"


    "Shh, be quiet," Murong Shi said with a mischievous smile. "People outside might hear you."


    "Then why did youe in?!"


    "It''s fine. I locked the door," Murong Shi said. Immediately afterward, she began kissing Xu Chuanchuan.


    At this point, Xu Chuanchuan was certain Linda had already found out about her rtionship with Murong Shi. She felt both surprised and embarrassed about this situation.


    Breaking the silence, Linda said, "I wasn''t peeking on you two on purpose. I had a document I needed Miss Murong to sign at the time, but I couldn''t find her in her office, and she didn''t bring her phone along, either. So, I checked the surveince system in her office and identally saw it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Don''t worry, though. I won''t tell anyone about it."


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised.


    Then, Linda continued rambling on by herself, "I went on leave for three whole months. Yet, not only did Miss Murong not rece me, but she even loaned me money. Although my father eventually sumbed to his illness still, I am still grateful to her nevertheless."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know the situation''s specifics, but looking at Linda''s expression, she didn''t think the other party was lying.


    Meanwhile, now that the cat was out of the bag, there was no longer a reason to continue pretending. After moving her lips a little, Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away in embarrassment and admitted, "She and I We''ve been together for close to three months now."


    "So that lipstick isn''t yours, but Miss Murong''s instead," Linda said, hitting the nail on the head.


    "Mhm"


    "I never expected this," Linda said, letting out a soft chuckle. Then, after a slight pause, she continued, "I was very conflicted when I found out about this secret. I originally nned to pretend like I saw nothing, but I decided toe clean after carefully thinking about it. This way, you two wouldn''t have to continue acting in front of me. It must''ve been tiring, right?"


    "It was quite tiring," Xu Chuanchuan said with a weak smile.


    "Rest assured, I''ll help you two keep this secret," Linda said, patting Xu Chuanchuan on the shoulders.


    Xu Chuanchuan found it incredibly awkward to have someone expose her secret right in her face, and she had no idea how she should respond. So, she simply replied with some words of gratitude.


    Then, Linda''s furrowed brows rxed as she said, "Hu I finally got it out. This matter has been suffocating me for the past few days."


    Xu Chuanchuan chuckled with a silly smile.


    "Alright, I won''t waste any more of your time. Hurry up and go on your date with Miss Murong."


    "There''s no date today I''ll be visiting her mother at her house," Xu Chuanchuan timidly exined.


    Retracting her smile, Linda somberly said, "I would''ve forgotten about it if you didn''t mention it. Unfortunately, I still have some matters to deal with, so I won''t be visiting. Help me send my regards."


    "Sure."


    After Linda took several steps to the front door, she turned back once more and said, "I suddenly remembered that I have this thing with me. Please help me pass it to Miss Murong."


    "What is it?"


    Linda unzipped her handbag and pulled out a t, rectangr parcel. Then, she handed it to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "It''s a delivery for her. This thing has been sitting at my ce for a very long time already. Although the packaging is slightly damaged, the item inside should be intact. I''ve been so busy today that Ipletely forgot to hand it over to Miss Murong, so please pass it to her for me."


    <em>Murong does online shopping as well? </em>Xu Chuanchuan epted the parcel. When she saw the courier slip on it, her pupils immediately shrank.


    Linda was quick to notice the change in Xu Chuanchuan''s expression. Then, anxiously, she asked, "Is there a problem? Did it really get damaged?!"


    However, Xu Chuanchuan remained silent and continued staring at the courier slip with widened eyes.


    Seeing this, Linda started inspecting the parcel before mumbling to herself, "It doesn''t seem damaged."


    The item wrapped inside the parcel was indeed intact. In fact, not only was the item intact, but even the words written on the courier slip remained legible.


    Meanwhile, written in the sender''s section were the words "Xu XX," and written in the address section was the apartment Xu Chuanchuan had previously rented for two years.


    Most importantly, written in the recipient''s section was a nickname Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be more familiar withPasserby Shi.


    Currently, many questions filled Xu Chuanchuan''s mind, with the main ones being: Why would a parcel she sent out end up in Linda''s hands?


    However, Xu Chuanchuan already had her answer.


    Thinking back, Xu Chuanchuan realized that Murong Shi had yed her for a fool all this time.

 Chapter 71: Pt.1

    Chapter 71: Pt.1


    When Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the Murong household, Aunt Lian was the person to open the door for her. "Little Xu, you''vee?"


    "Good evening, Aunt Lian."


    "Evening, evening!" Aunt Lian stepped aside and made way for Xu Chuanchuan to enter the house. When she noticed that the younger woman was holding a big bag in her hands, she said, "Oh, you should''ve juste empty-handed. No need to be so polite."


    "I used to feel very embarrassed whening here empty-handed," Xu Chuanchuan said with a smile.


    "You bought so many things. It must be heavy, right? Look, even your hands have turned red. Give it to me, quickly. I''ll hold it for you."


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to say that she could handle the weight, but Aunt Lian had already snatched the bag out of her hands before she could open her mouth. Then, while massaging her reddened palms, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is Auntie Mingshu alright?"


    "Oh, she nearly scared me to death when she fainted! Thankfully, I got her to the hospital in time, so she''s alright now. She''s currently resting inside her room."


    "Is it alright if I go see her now?"


    Before Aunt Lian could answer, another voice interjected, "Why didn''t you tell me you were visiting?"


    Xu Chuanchuan turned toward the source of this other voice. Then, she saw Murong Shi rushing down the stairs in her sandals and arriving in front of her in no time at all.


    No matter how hard Murong Shi tried, she utterly failed to hide the joy and love in her passionate eyes.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel a sense of foreignness when she looked at the person before her. She even felt that Murong Shi''s current smile looked somewhat fake. In an attempt to hide her disgust, Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away and indifferently said, "I just wanted to see how Auntie is doing."


    Murong Shi didn''t notice Xu Chuanchuan''s strange behavior as she said, "She''s resting in the room. I''ll take you to her."


    After Murong Shi finished speaking, she reached out to hold Xu Chuanchuan''s hand naturally.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought to struggle free from Murong Shi''s hold but held back the urge to do so when she remembered Aunt Lian was still nearby.


    However, Murong Shi immediately noticed something was amiss when she held onto her lover''s hand. Then, she asked, "Does it hurt?"


    A deep groove had formed in the palm of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand because of the heavy stic bag. While it indeed hurt when Murong Shi touched it, Xu Chuanchuan stubbornly said, "It''s fine."


    In response, Murong Shi released Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and began giving it a gentle massage.


    Whenever Murong Shi treated her so warmly, Xu Chuanchuan would feel as if she were on cloud nine. However, she couldn''t help but haveplicated feelings this time.


    Xu Chuanchuan silently retracted her hand. Then, she lowered her head to hide the emotions in her eyes before saying, "We shouldn''t be doing this at your home."


    They were already used to avoiding suspicion whenever they weren''t alone, so Murong Shi simply treated Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction as thetter being shy.


    Murong Mingshu''s room was on the second floor. After opening the door, Xu Chuanchuan saw a sturdy figure sitting by the bed and feeding Murong Mingshu a slice of apple. When Xu Chuanchuan realized that this person was Murong Shi''s father, Sun An, her footsteps paused.


    "Dad, Mom, Chuanchuan is here," Murong Shi said to the people inside.


    "Chuanchuan''s here?" A friendly smile immediately surfaced on Murong Mingshu''s pale face, though her voice when she spoke sounded a little weak. "Come in, quickly."


    Xu Chuanchuan entered the room together with Murong Shi.


    Meanwhile, Sun An offered another slice of apple to his wife. When Murong Mingshu shook her head and expressed that she did not wish to eat anymore, Sun An returned the slice to the te and slowly stood up. Then, his sharp eyes scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan for a moment before asking Murong Shi, "And this person is?"


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had met Sun An despite having visited the Murong household many times. ording to Murong Shi''s description, Xu Chuanchuan had imagined Sun An to be a very strict person. After meeting the person himself today, she found that her imagination was urate. Feeling a little nervous, Xu Chuanchuan put on a decent smile and said, "Hello, Present Sun. I''m Xu Chuanchuan."


    "She''s my girlfriend," Murong Shi added.


    The word ''girlfriend'' had multiple meanings, so Sun An didn''t think too deeply into the matter. Then, he smiled and said, "I think I remember. You''re the one who came to stay overst time, right? Wee to our house."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a little strange. For an instant, she thought that Murong Shi was nning toe out of the closet at this moment.


    Then, Murong Shi faintly said, "She''s been here many times already. It''s just that you were so busy that you hadn''t met her even once before."


    It was only a normal sentence. However, for some reason, Xu Chuanchuan could feel the atmosphere in the room freezing as soon as Murong Shi finished speaking.


    Sun An''s stern expression faltered momentarily but quickly recovered. Instead of answering Murong Shi, he said, "You three have a good chat. I still have another business meeting tonight."


    "Take care," Murong Shi said in a respectful tone. However, the expression she wore was frigid.


    Sun An took a long look at his daughter, then looked toward his wife, who was leaning against the bed''s headboard.


    "Of course. I don''t need you to tell me that."


    Provocation filled these words, and even Xu Chuanchuan felt ufortable listening to them, let alone Sun An.


    However, Sun An surprisingly didn''t explode into rage. Instead, he was seemingly doing his best to control his emotions and eventually left without saying anything.


    Murong Shi went and closed the door.


    Meanwhile, Murong Mingshu let out a heavy sigh and said, "It''s rare for you father and daughter to meet, so why can''t you two converse properly?"


    Murong Shi did not respond.


    <em>Did Ie at a bad time? </em>Xu Chuanchuan was at a loss on what to do in this awkward situation. "That I"


    Noticing Xu Chuanchuan''s awkwardness, Murong Mingshu beamed her warm smile before saying, "See? Even Chuanchuan doesn''t know what to say anymore."


    Xu Chuanchuan drylyughed.


    Then, Murong Mingshu held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand affectionately and said, "You came to visit me, right? That''s thoughtful of you, but don''t worry. I''m fine."


    Immediately afterward, Murong Shi said in an upset tone, "You call fainting in the middle of the day, ''fine''? Do you know how dangerous it is for someone of your age to get heatstroke? You''re not young anymore, yet you still dare to go out into the open in such hot weather? Even teenage girls aren''t as crazy as you. Is it not better to stay at home where there''s air conditioning?"


    Murong Shi did not stop once she started voicing out her worries and annoyance. However, Murong Mingshu was seemingly used to such situations already as she simply listened in silence. Then, once Murong Shi was done ranting, Murong Mingshu said, "A girl shouldn''t be so aggressive."


    "You won''t keep it in your mind if I''m not aggressive. How many times have I told you to stop doing tiring work yourself already? Yet, you refuse to listen. Last time, you even went out to catch chickens and got your hand injured. How can someone as old as you be so wilful? How am I supposed to work with peace of mind if you keep behaving like this?"


    Holding onto her forehead, Murong Mingshu said, "Yes, yes, yes, everything you said is correct. I''ll be sure to listen to you next time. Why have you be so naggy? Your temper is bad as well. What if no one wants you in the future?"


    In response, Murong Shi wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders and meaningfully said, "You don''t have to worry about this."


    The mother-daughter duo was so busy with their conversation that neither of them noticed the stiff smile on Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan finally felt relieved after seeing that Murong Mingshu was alright. However, there was still one thing on her mind.


    To avoid disturbing Murong Mingshu''s rest, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan retreated from the room shortly afterward. Immediately after closing the door, Murong Shi leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "You don''t have work tomorrow, so just stay for the night."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her body turning numb when Murong Shi''s hot breath prated her ear. Then, she pushed Murong Shi away out of reflex and said, "I have something to say to you."


    With a big smile on her face, Murong Shi asked, "What is it?"


    Murong Mingshu''s room was behind them, and Aunt Lian was busy working in the kitchen downstairs. After blinking her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Let''s go to your room."


    Murong Shi''s eyes lit up at Xu Chuanchuan''s words, and she eagerly dragged the shorter woman back to her room. Then, after closing the door, Murong Shi promptly turned around and pressed Xu Chuanchuan against the door.


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped and eximed, "Hey!"


    "Does it hurt?" Murong Shi utterly misunderstood Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. When she tried to insert her hand between the door and Xu Chuanchuan''s back to pick thetter up, something stopped her hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan put up a weak struggle.


    "What''s this?" Murong Shi looked down and found that it was a handbag. So, she promptly tried to remove it for Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly held down Murong Shi''s hands and said, "I have something to say."


    "Kiss me first; then we''ll talk. We haven''t seen each other for the entire day already," Murong Shi said before leaning forward with her scorching lips.


    However, how could Xu Chuanchuan possibly be in the mood to be affectionate with Murong Shi right now? So, she turned her head and let Murong Shi''s lips fall on her cheek.


    Although the hands holding her arms were weak, Murong Shi noticed that the resistance they put up was unexpectedly apparent. So, her eager kiss gradually grew hesitant.


    Only at this moment did Murong Shi realize that Xu Chuanchuan was behaving strangely. So, she asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan moved aside and tightly pressed her back against the door. Then, she looked up at Murong Shi and got straight to the point, asking, "Have you ever lied to me?"


    Murong Shi couldn''t help herself fromughing. Then, she hooked Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with her forefinger and said, "What an abrupt question. Of course not. Why would I ever lie to you?"


    "No?" Holding down Murong Shi''s misbehaving hands, Xu Chuanchuan said with a gloomy look, "I''ll give you one more chance."


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had spoken to her in such a harsh tone, so Murong Shi couldn''t help but be slightly taken aback. Then, after retracting her joking thoughts, she stared at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "What are you trying to say?"


    Xu Chuanchuan stared straight into Murong Shi''s eyes and monotonously asked, "Did you forget? Or are you putting on an act?"


    Murong Shi looked down and frowned unhappily. "I don''t like your expression and the way you speak."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt like she was talking to Murong Shi through different frequencies as thetter was utterly failing to understand her words. After taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Okay, let me remind you, then."


    "Remind me what? I don''t understand a single thing you''re saying," Murong Shi said. Then, when she saw Xu Chuanchuan trying to open her handbag, she asked, "What are you looking for?"


    For some reason, her handbag''s zipper had gotten stuck, and Xu Chuanchuan struggled for some time before managing to open it. Then, she took out the parcel Linda had previously given her.


    "What''s this?" Murong Shi asked again. However, when she saw the courier slip on the parcel, she promptly kept her mouth shut.


    "Did you see it?" Xu Chuanchuan did not miss the change in Murong Shi''s expression. Then, she pointed at the sender''s section and said, "''Xu XX.'' This is me. Inside this parcel is a book, and it is something I sent. Now, do you mind telling me who this ''Passerby Shi'' is?"


    "......"


    "You''ve long since known about my pen name, haven''t you?"


    "..." Murong Shi gradually started remembering what she had forgotten.


    Because quite some time had passed already and many things had happened along the way, Murong Shi had forgotten entirely about this parcel. She also couldn''t help but be confused about why this parcel was in Xu Chuanchuan''s hands rather than in Linda''s house.


    Murong Shi''s expression changed time and again as she tried to wrap her mind around this matter.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew impatient after not receiving a reply for some time. So, she took a deep breath and continued, "Are you refusing to admit it? Linda already told me that you used her address on purpose. Aside from this book, I also sent thest six books to her ce. You''re clearly Passerby Shi! Why have you been toying with me all this time?!"


    "..." Murong Shi never thought that she would slip up at this juncture. However, now that Xu Chuanchuan had brought conclusive evidence, what else could she say? So, she raised her hands in submission and said, "Yes, that''s me. But I''m not toying with you."


    "You dare deny it still?!" Blood rushing to her head, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously raised her voice and said, "You used this nickname to read my novels and spy on my Weibo. You had me write that bootlicking essay and read it out for you! You even made a record of it! You also messed with me on QQ on the basis that you''ve donated a lot of money to me! If this doesn''t constitute messing with me, what is it?!"


    "I"


    "I still have our conversation history saved on my phone. Are you still trying to lie?"

 Chapter 71: Pt.2

    Chapter 71: Pt.2


    "I"


    "I still have our conversation history saved on my phone. Are you still trying to lie?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s emotions became increasingly excited the more she spoke. Her voice also became sharper and sharper. In an attempt to assuage Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "It''s not a big deal. You should calm down first."


    Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded. Immediately, she exploded into an even bigger rage and bellowed, "You used a pseudonym to act in front of me and lie to me. You''ve tricked me for so long, and you''re saying this isn''t a big deal?!"


    Murong Shi choked. After a slight pause, she said, "Listen to my exnation first."


    "What is there to exin? Look at the conversations you''ve had with me on Weibo and QQ. Don''t tell me you weren''t deliberately messing with me?"


    "I I just thought you were fun to mess with at the start. There''s no other meaning to my words."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from sneering. "Is messing with others fun? Don''t you think you''ve gone too far?"


    "I''m sorry, it was my mistake. Please forgive me."


    "..."


    <em>Knock, knock, knock</em>


    Knocking sounds suddenly came from the door behind, giving Xu Chuanchuan a scare.


    Immediately afterward, Murong Mingshu''s voice came through the door, "What''s with the noise? What are you two doing inside?"


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly realized her mistake. Because of her anger, she had momentarily forgotten that she was in someone else''s house. So, she quickly settled her emotions, turned around, and opened the door.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Mingshu''s sickly face, she couldn''t help but feel guilty. Offering a hand to support the elderly woman, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Did we interrupt your rest?"


    "That''s not the case. I was nning to head downstairs, but I suddenly heard a lot of noiseing from here. I thought you two were arguing."


    Murong Shi walked out of the room and calmly said, "We''re not arguing."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." Indeed, they weren''t arguing. After all, she was the only one losing her mind.


    Murong Shi sent a worried nce at Xu Chuanchuan. However, Xu Chuanchuan deliberately looked away.


    "..." Now wasn''t the time to be at odds with each other, so Murong Shi asked her mother in a soft voice, "Dinner isn''t ready yet. Why don''t you go lie down first?"


    However, Murong Mingshu waved her hand and said, "I''ve been lying down the entire day now. My back can''t take any more of it, so I''m going down for a walk."


    Subsequently, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan helped Murong Mingshu downstairs.


    Then, after adjusting her emotions, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Auntie, since you''re fine already, I''ll take my leave now."


    Looking at XuChuanchuan in surprise, Murong Shi said, "Aunt Lian has already prepared dinner."


    "That''s right. Since you''re already here, leave after you''ve eaten," Murong Mingshu said.


    "I''m not hungry," Xu Chuanchuan said, shrugging. While trying her best to avoid making her smile look stiff, she continued, "I still have matters to deal withter, so I need to head back before it gets dark. Auntie, rest properly. I''m leaving now."


    "Ah? You''re leaving?" Murong Mingshu couldn''t react in time.


    "Bye-bye." Xu Chuanchuan waved her hand. "Help me say goodbye to Aunt Lian. Also, no need to send me off."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan had spoken as such, Murong Shi still followed her lover out the door. Then, she quickly held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and said, "Didn''t I apologize already? How about leaving after dinner? I''ll send you back after the meal."


    "No need. I can go back myself," Xu Chuanchuan said, shaking off Murong Shi''s hand with a straight face.


    "You''ll get carsick easily with an empty stomach," Murong Shi said in a softer tone.


    "Even if I do get carsick, it is none of your business," Xu Chuanchuan said, ring at Murong Shi.


    "..." Revealing a look of helplessness, Murong Shi asked, "What do I need to do for you to forgive me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was unable to think straight right now because of her emotions. She didn''t even understand why she was so angry. So, she simply replied, "I don''t want to talk to you today."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    As if venting her emotions, Xu Chuanchuan pushed the parcel into Murong Shi''s hands and walked to the elevator in a huff.


    Murong Shi didn''t hold onto the parcel and simply let it fall to the ground. Without sparing the parcel even a nce, she broke into a sprint to chase after Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, before Murong Shi could get anywhere, she suddenly heard Murong Mingshu calling her from inside the house, "Little Shi"


    Murong Shi faltered momentarily.


    In this brief moment, Xu Chuanchuan had rushed into the elevator and closed the doors.


    The instant Xu Chuanchuan left the elevator downstairs, her phone started ringing. When she saw that it was Murong Shi calling her, she rejected the call without hesitation.


    This should be the first time they hade into conflict after getting together, and Xu Chuanchuan had mixed feelings about this situation. She knew that Murong Shi wouldn''t be chasing after her. After all, Murong Mingshu had just fainted today, so it was only natural for Murong Shi to stay behind and take care of her mother.


    As Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t answering her calls, Murong Shi switched to sending messages through WeChat. She sent message after message, every one of them filled with words of apology and exnation. However, Xu Chuanchuan did not respond to even one of these messages.


    Several minutester, Xu Chuanchuan had already gotten into a taxi. However, Murong Shi was still messaging her, and this situation caused Xu Chuanchuan''s heart to waver.


    Murong Shi was already vigorously admitting her mistake. She was even speaking in a humble and servile tone. For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but reflect on herself as she looked at her phone. <em>Am I going too far?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had very nearly forgiven Murong Shi. However, when she read through her conversations with "Passerby Shi" on Weibo and QQ, anger welled up within her once more.


    <em>Does she have nothing better to do?! She knew who I was, yet she still chose to delude me with a pseudonym!</em>


    <em>She even said I was an insincere person before! Who exactly is the insincere one here?!</em>


    <em>I even told her about my writing gig, yet she continued pretending in front of me! She even had me teach her how to writements and give donations!</em>


    <em>She must''ve been having theugh of her life back then, right?</em>


    <em>How infuriating.</em>


    <em>If I forgive her just like that, wouldn''t that be too good of a deal for her?</em>


    After mentally struggling for a while, Xu Chuanchuan closed her WeChat app and switched to QQ. Then, she clicked on Ange''s avatar and started typing away, her fingers trembling from anger as she did so.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That bastard Murong is Passerby Shi!"


    Ange: "What???"


    Xu Chuanchuan had trouble typing because of her anger, so it took her quite some time to exin the entire situation to Ange.


    Ange: "Heavens! Isn''t Murong a little too good at acting?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "So, don''t you think I should be angry at her?!"


    Ange: "How do you think I''m supposed to answer? I''m not interfering in a lover''s spat. [Shrug]"


    Now that even "life mentor" Ange refused to help her, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be at a loss on what to do.


    Xu Chuanchuan naturally wouldn''t doubt Murong Shi''s affection toward her. However, after being yed like a fool for such a long time, she absolutely refused to forgive Murong Shi easily. Hence, a cold war ensued between them.


    "Are you writing?"


    "Have you eaten?"


    "Are you still mad?"


    "I''ll have Aunt Lian make your favorite dishes and send them to you tomorrow, okay?"


    "Are you asleep?"


    Ever since leaving the Murong household, Xu Chuanchuan''s phone had never stopped ringing and buzzing. Finally, after getting fed up with the noise, she simply turned off her phone''s sound and vibration.


    Later in the night, Ange invited Xu Chuanchuan to a joint writing session. However, after staring at the nk document for some time and failing to calm her emotions, Xu Chuanchuan decided to give up on writing for today.


    After turning off herputer, Xu Chuanchuanid down on her soft bed. However, when her nose caught a whiff of Murong Shi''s familiar perfume, Xu Chuanchuan grew irritated again.


    Xu Chuanchuan had never gotten into a fight with anyone before. Needless to say, she had also never waged a cold war with anyone before. Now, she couldn''t help but start regretting her actions.


    If Xu Chuanchuan were honest, Murong Shi hadn''t done anything heinous. However, Xu Chuanchuan also felt like she was a child throwing a tantrum for ignoring Murong Shi until now.


    "I''m going to take a shower." This was thest message Murong Shi sent five minutes ago.


    Although her phone had finally stopped ringing, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart felt empty. Xu Chuanchuan found that she was too soft-hearted. Even though Murong Shi was in the wrong, she had ended up ming herself for being too hypocritical instead. However, Xu Chuanchuan also couldn''t bring herself to reconcile with Murong Shi.


    With no one else sleeping beside her tonight, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if something was missing. Because of this, she had difficulty falling asleep, her eyes staying open as she waited for daylight to arrive.


    However, when light finally came in through the window, Xu Chuanchuan ended up sumbing to her exhaustion and falling asleep instead. Amidst her drowsy state, she suddenly had a feeling that someone was quietly observing her.


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly woke up when this thought surfaced in her mind. Then, when she opened her eyes and saw that someone was indeed crouching by the bed, she couldn''t help but be a little stunned.


    "Did I wake you?" Murong Shi currently wore a white shirt, and her long hair spread across her shoulders. She looked incredibly gentle, and even her voice seemed to be full of affection.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart being moved when she saw Murong Shi''s face. Then, she opened her mouth to speak, only to let out a long yawn instead. "..."


    Murong Shi helped move aside the hair covering Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes. Then, she said, "It''s still early. Continue sleeping if you want to."


    Xu Chuanchuan was indeed exhausted, and her mind was a cluttered mess. Subconsciously, she held onto Murong Shi''s hand and rubbed her face against it.


    Murong Shi smiled at this scene. "Are you finally willing to forgive me?"


    Murong Shi''s words instantly brought back Xu Chuanchuan''s memories. When Xu Chuanchuan thought back to the unhappy situation yesterday, she threw Murong Shi''s hand away, harrumphed, and said, "Not a chance!"


    Murong Shi sighed.


    Meanwhile, now that her drowsiness had disappeared, Xu Chuanchuanzily sat up. She also swatted away Murong Shi''s hands that tried to embrace her. Then, she looked down and saw a bunch of strange items on the ground. "What are these?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s droopy eyes and hoarse voice made her seem like she was flirting. Murong Shi wanted nothing more than to kiss Xu Chuanchuan right now, but she also worried she would be met with a rebuff like yesterday. So, she eventually held back and pointed at the items on the ground, saying, "A washboard, a durian, and a malfunctioning keyboard."


    Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded. "What did you bring these things here for?"


    "Pick one."


    Still not fully awake, Xu Chuanchuan rubbed her eyes and asked, "What do you mean?"


    "Which one do you want me to kneel on?"


    "..."

 Chapter 72: Pt.1

    Chapter 72: Pt.1


    After hearing no reply from her lover for some time, Murong Shi waved her hand in front of Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes.


    Xu Chuanchuan snapped out of her daze but still looked at Murong Shi with a dumb look on her face.


    "Or do you want me to kneel on all three of them?" Murong Shi asked.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi pulling the washboard aside to kneel on it, she quickly yelled, "Hold on!"


    Murong Shi paused and asked, "Do you not like this one? Should I switch to the durian, then?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little frightened by Murong Shi''s words and actions.


    "No, I''m still missing something," Murong Shi mumbled to herself. Then, she put her hand on her pants, unbuttoned them, and began removing them.


    Xu Chuanchuan was utterly dumbfounded once more.


    Murong Shi was wearing a pair of ck cropped trousers today, so taking it off was an easy task. Before Xu Chuanchuan could make sense of what Murong Shi was trying to do, a pair of long and slim legs had appeared in front of her.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan drooled like the useless fool she was. Only after staring for a long time did she find the will to ask, "What are you doing?"


    <em>Is Murong trying to seduce me?</em> At this thought, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly held onto herself and shuffled away from Murong Shi.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi smiled and threw her pants to Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she lightly said, "It''ll be more effective if I don''t have my pants on."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s vision darkened momentarily as Murong Shi''s pants covered her eyes. When she pulled the pants away and saw Murong Shi walking toward the durian, she was scared out of her mind and hurriedly extended her hands to hold onto Murong Shi''s thin waist. "Are you insane?!"


    Murong Shi looked down at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she revealed an innocent expression and gloomily said, "You refused to pay attention to me all night yesterday. You also refuse to forgive me. What else can I do?"


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought Murong Shi was only joking about corporal punishment, but looking at Murong Shi''s expression, it would seem that the other party was serious. So, she held onto Murong Shi''s waist even tightly and said, "Actually, I''ve already"


    Xu Chuanchuan had nearly said, "I''ve already forgiven you," but she promptly mped her mouth shut before she could finish her sentence. After all, it would be embarrassing for her if she were to cave and forgive Murong Shi so easily.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan took another look at the thorny durian on the floor and Murong Shi''s white and tender thighs, her determination began wavering once more. After all, with how perfect Murong Shi''s legs were, they would be more than enough for her to enjoy for a lifetime. Xu Chuanchuan would be devastated if scars marred these beautiful legs.


    Previously, when her anger was at its peak, Xu Chuanchuan had indeed thought of punishing Murong Shi before. However, she also couldn''t bear to have a proud person like Murong Shi kneel in front of her. Not to mention, there were all sorts of punishments that could be implemented, such as doing both their share of chores for an entire month. There wasn''t a need to utilize such cruel methods.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan grumpily released Murong Shi and said, "Put on your pants first."


    "I''ll put them on if you forgive me."


    "...You''re acting like a hoodlum!"


    "So be it. There''s no police to care or outsiders to see us anyway."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan failed in her argument against Murong Shi.


    <em>Dammit, this woman''s wearing a thong, and it''s even one with ckce trimmings. She''s also deliberately making such sultry movements.</em>


    <em>I can''t lose. It''ll be too embarrassing if I lose.</em>


    While inwardly reminding herself not to give in, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously scanned Murong Shi''s lower half with her eyes. Then, she noticed something through the corner of her eyes. "Where did you get the washboard from?"


    "They told me Taobao sells it, but it takes too long for it to be delivered, so I had no choice but to check the local supermarkets." Frowning, Murong Shi said, "This thing is too rare. I had to go through a few supermarkets before I found one."


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised by Murong Shi''s words. Then, she suddenly noticed a crucial word and asked, "They? Someone else told you to get...these things?"


    Murong Shi might be capable when it came to coaxing others, but kneeling didn''t fit her style at all. The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about this matter, the stranger she found it to be.


    Realizing that she had already been seen through, Murong Shi fell silent for a moment before saying, "The girls in your reader group were quite enthusiastic."


    <em>Reader group?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan turned around and grabbed her phone from the bedside table. Then, she unlocked it, opened up her QQ messenger, and clicked on her reader group, only to find that someone had tagged her in a message.


    There were too many unread messages, so she quickly scanned through them, only stopping when she saw a familiar name that annoyed her.


    The cause of the flood of messages was Murong Shi using her pseudonym of "Passerby Shi" to send a call for help in the group chat. "My girlfriend is mad at me, and all the coaxing in the world isn''t working. Does anyone have any good solutions to rmend?"


    Immediately, the reader group exploded with activity.


    Darling Shi? You finally appeared!


    Sure enough, excellent people all have girlfriends. Jealousy makes me ugly.


    Sorry, but I don''t have a girlfriend. This topic exceeds my field of expertise.


    No girlfriend +1. There''s nothing I can help you with, Tycoon Shi.


    Don''t coax her if it''s not working. Just push yourself onto her and give her a deep kiss. That''ll solve your problem immediately.


    (Passerby Shi''s reply: She''s refusing to let me touch her right now.)


    Lolol. She''s even prohibiting you from touching her? Tycoon Shi, what kind of heinous crime did youmit?


    Give her gifts. Give her whatever she likes.


    (Passerby Shi''s reply: She likes money.)


    Then smash her with money! Fold 10,000 yuan into origami flowers and give them to her!


    It was after this segment that Xu Chuanchuan started getting tagged in the group.


    How scary. Thement section is getting flooded with Deep-water announcements. [Image] Darling Shi, are you venting your emotions because you''re in a bad mood?


    Tycoon Shi, won''t your girlfriend get jealous and angry if you donate so much to Lord?


    I just did a count, and the number has reached 20 already.


    I just refreshed the page; it''s at 30 already. Dammit, the rich are so willful!


    Shocking news! A certain tycoon is given the cold shoulder by her girlfriend and ends up going on the inte and throwing money at a novel author!


    Lord is probably going tough to death tonight from all these donations. @I Love Mtang.


    Wait a minute. Let''s connect the dots. Darling Shi''s girlfriend loves money, and you guys just told Darling Shi to smash her girlfriend with cash. Immediately afterward, Darling Shi starts throwing a bunch of Deep-waters at Lord. Erm Let me make a bold guess. Is Darling Shi''s girlfriend our Lord?


    How is that possible? Our Lord is straight.


    What if she got bent?


    She''s bent?! Lord, pleasee out and give us an answer! @I Love Mtang


    Because a certain someone was busy making donations on jjwxc''s tform, she simply let the girls in the group chat continue making blind guesses. As for Xu Chuanchuan, she had been rolling around on the bed trying to sleep at the time, so she had missed out on this shocking episode.


    After scrolling through some more messages, Xu Chuanchuan finally found the topic discussing the matter of kneeling. One reader had suggested to Passerby Shi the method of kneeling to beg for forgiveness, while others had followed it up by suggesting to kneel on washboards, durians, keyboards, and instant noodles.


    Xu Chuanchuan briefly looked away from her phone and scanned the floor. After failing to find any instant noodles, she returned her attention to her phone.


    By now, it was also evident that Murong Shi had taken that reader''s suggestion to heart.


    Thest time "Passerby Shi" had appeared in the reader group was to thank the members for their enthusiasm. She also dropped a 1,000-yuan red packet before leaving, causing the group members to start a frantic round ofpetition.


    Although there were more unread messages, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to look through all of them. Instead, she opened up the chat''s member list, found Passerby Shi''s ID, and clicked on her avatar. Then, she clicked on the "More" option and scrolled to the bottom of the page, revealing an eye-catching line of red text.


    Realizing Xu Chuanchuan''s intentions, Murong Shi urgently called out, "What are you doing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan pretended to be deaf and clicked on the red text without hesitation, sessfully removing Passerby Shi from the group.


    Feeling pleased with herself, Xu Chuanchuan looked up at Murong Shi with a provocative look.


    <em>Serves you right for wasting money.</em>


    "..." Murong Shi had nothing to say about her dismissal from the reader group. Instead, she lifted a leg and knelt on the bed, saying, "I"


    Before Murong Shi could speak her mind, Xu Chuanchuan''s phone rudely started ringing. When Xu Chuanchuan held it up, she found that it was Xu Xiangxiang calling her.


    Her words getting interrupted, Murong Shi stood up and tactfully retreated. "Go ahead and answer it first."


    Xu Chuanchuan answered the call and put her phone by her ear. Before she could even speak, Xu Xiangxiang''s voice came through the phone, asking, "Sis, are you at thepany dorm right now?"


    "I am. What''s wrong?"


    "That''s good. Mom and I are downstairs already, but the guards aren''t letting us upstairs."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body stiffened upon hearing Xu Xiangxiang''s words, and her drowsy mind instantly became wide awake. "You and Mom?!"


    "That''s right. Mom says she wanted to see your current living space. The sun is hot, so hurry up ande get us!"


    "G-Gimme a minute!" Xu Chuanchuan stammered before ending the call in a panic. Then, she gave Murong Shi a slight push before saying, "My mother and my sister areing! Hurry up and put your pants on!"


    "What?"


    "Quick! Quick! Quick!"


    With the situation taking a turn for the worse, Murong Shi grabbed her pants and put them on without hesitation.


    "Why didn''t they tell me beforeing?!" Xu Chuanchuan got out of bed with a panicked expression on her face. Then, she pushed Murong Shi again and said, "Put away all your things, quickly!"


    Mother Xu and Xu Xiangxiang''s sudden visit caught Xu Chuanchuan off guard, and she couldn''t care less about which object Murong Shi should kneel on. She also thoroughly forgot about her cold war with Murong Shi as she hurriedly tidied her room together with Murong Shi.


    While maintaining herposure, Murong Shi said, "Stuff my cosmetics into the drawer. Hey, stop panicking. There''s no need to cover up so much. They''ll only be more suspicious if we take too long."


    Xu Chuanchuan picked up one of the pillows on the bed and stuffed it into the cupboard. Then, she threw all of Murong Shi''s shoes under the bed.


    As for those three kneeling tools, Xu Chuanchuan grew infuriated just by looking at them, so she ended up throwing them to a corner. However, the durian was prickly, so she ended up kicking it with her slippers instead, only to identally stab herself in her big toe.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was crying out in pain, Murong Shi put her hands into her armpits and carried her aside. Then, Murong Shi said, "Just leave it alone. It''s nothing strange, anyway."


    The durian was abandoned.


    "What else?" Xu Chuanchuan anxiously paced around the room. "Your clothes! They''re still drying on the balcony! We need to go collect them quickly!"


    However, Murong Shi held down Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders and said, "Ignore those. Just say that they belong to Linda."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes lit up in realization. "Yes! Why didn''t I think of that!"


    Then, Murong Shi pointed at Xu Chuanchuan''s messy hair and said in a helpless tone, "Go wash up first. I''ll go downstairs and receive them."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan red at Murong Shi and said, "You''re the thing I need to hide the most."


    Not sure whether tough or cry, Murong Shi asked, "Hide where?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at the dark bottom of the bed.


    Murong Shi: "..."


    After they inspected the room one more time and made sure there were no problems, Murong Shi left the apartment.

 Chapter 72: Pt.2

    Chapter 72: Pt.2


    The people waiting downstairs had long since grown impatient. After muttering aint, Xu Xiangxiang pulled out her phone to give her elder sister a call.


    "She''s here, she''s here," Mother Xu said, stopping Xu Xiangxiang''s actions.


    Xu Xiangxiang craned her neck and looked at the entrance. Then, she said in disappointment, "Mom, your eyes are terrible. Since when is my sister so tall? Also, that person''s hair is so long. What the heck is taking Sis so long? Forget it; I''ll give her a call."


    "Xiangxiang"


    Xu Xiangxiang paused her actions once more when she heard someone calling her. Then, after using her hand to shade her eyes from the ring sun, she was finally able to get a better look at the approaching figure. Immediately, she called out in joy, "Big Sis Shishi!"


    Murong Shi strode toward Xu Xiangxiang and Mother Xu withrge steps. Then, she smiled and asked, "Auntie, do you still remember me?"


    "You''re so beautiful, so of course I can remember you, Little Shi," Mother Xu said with a smile.


    "I''m here to pick you two up."


    Puzzled, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Where''s my sister? Why are you here to receive us instead, Big Sis Shishi? Have you started living in the dorms as well?"


    "Mhm. I had to work overtime yesterday, so I decided to stay at the dorms for the night. Your sister is still showering."


    Xu Xiangxiang did not doubt Murong Shi''s words.


    Meanwhile, with Murong Shi''s arrival, the security guards allowed Xu Xiangxiang and Mother Xu to enter thepany building without even registering them. Then, the three women started making their way upstairs.


    On the way up, Xu Xiangxiang curiously asked, "Big Sis Shishi, how did you know that my mother and I wereing? Did you sleep together with my sisterst night?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi naturally said, "I didn''t have a choice. I was too tired to drive home after finishing work, so I had to borrow her bed for the night."


    "She must have a terrible sleeping habit, right?"


    "It''s okay."


    Amidst their conversation, the trio arrived at the dormitory''s front door, and Murong Shi knocked on the door symbolically. After knocking for some time and receiving no response, Murong Shi took out a key.


    When the door opened, Xu Chuanchuan''s figure was nowhere to be seen. So, Xu Xiangxiang shouted, "Sis, Mom is here to see you! She even brought something good for you!"


    Xu Chuanchuan came running out of the bathroom in a pair of slippers. "Mom, why are you here?"


    "Your Aunt Yao sent me some honey a few days ago, so I brought some over for you and Xiangxiang," Mother Xu said before opening her handbag and pulling out two jars of honey. Then, she offered one to Murong Shi and said, "Little Shi, since you''re here, take a bottle as well. My little sister''s family produced this honey. I guarantee its purity."


    Surprised, Murong Shi epted the jar and said, "Thank you, Auntie."


    "No need for thanks. You loaned so much money to Chuanchuan. We should be the ones thanking you instead."


    "That In that case, I''ll dly ept it." The honey was quite heavy, so Murong Shi ced it on the coffee table and said, "I''ll take it when I''m leaving. Auntie, have a seat."


    Handing a box of tissues to her sweaty mother, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why didn''t you give me a call beforeing here?"


    Fortunately, they had bought disposable paper cups previously, so Murong Shi went to fetch some water while Xu Chuanchuan was talking to her mother. After returning with the paper cups and a jug of water, Murong Shi first served a cup to Mother Xu, "Auntie, have some water."


    "Thank you." Mother Xu didn''t hurry to drink the water. Instead, she continued, "I only noticed my phone was out of money after leaving the house."


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang and Murong Shi were fighting over the paper cups, with Xu Xiangxiang saying, "Let me do it. How can I trouble you to pour me water?"


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "Alright, you do it yourself."


    "I never knew where you were working at, so since I already made a trip here, I decided toe to take a look," Mother Xu said. Then, she took a look at the apartment and asked, "Is this yourpany''s dormitory? It looks so much better than I imagined. The other benefits thepany offers must be great as well, right?"


    "Uh, not bad," Xu Chuanchuan said ambiguously. Then, changing the topic, she asked, "How are the renovationsing along?"


    After taking a sip of water, Mother Xu said, "Your father has already found someone to handle it."


    "Do you need to go back and help, then?"


    "No rush," Mother Xu said, her attention fully focused on the apartment. "This ce can fit two people quite well. Which room is yours?"


    "I"


    "It''s that one," Xu Xiangxiang answered before Xu Chuanchuan could. "Mom, Sis''s room is massive! Her bed is massive as well!"


    "Is that so? Let me see," Mother Xu said with interest. Then, she put down her cup and stood up from the sofa.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously nced at Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi blinked her eyes in response, signaling for Xu Chuanchuan to stay calm.


    Now that her mother had stated that she wanted to look at her room, Xu Chuanchuan dared not refuse. So, she quickly ran to her room and opened the door.


    "It''s quite spacious," Mother Xumented while standing by the door. When her gaze fell onto the big bed in the room, she couldn''t help butment, "Look at that mess. Don''t you know how to tidy up?"


    Shrugging, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I just woke up not long ago, so it''s bound to be messy."


    Mother Xu speechlessly shook her head when she heard her daughter''s excuse. Then, her eyes were drawn to something on the floor as she asked, "Why is there a durian here?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to say that she had bought the durian because she had a sudden urge to eat some, but before she could open her mouth, Xu Xiangxiang''s exmation interrupted her.


    "Wah What a big whale!" Xu Xiangxiang eximed while pointing at the bed. Then, with her eyes glowing with surprise and excitement, she continued, "Sis, when did you buy this thing? It looks so cute!"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could react, Xu Xiangxiang had already dashed forward, embraced the whale bolster in her arms, and started rubbing her face against it. Then, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Didn''t you say you hated whales? So why did you buy a whale bolster?"


    Holding her forehead, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "When did I say I hated whales?"


    "Thest time we went to the beach, you showed me an ugly expression when I called you to look at the whale. I thought you were afraid of it."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan did not wish to exin the specifics of the situation.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t get enough of the little whale as she repeatedly caressed it with her hands. Then, she said, "Give this to me!"


    "No," Xu Chuanchuan refused, her face sinking. Then, she dashed over to snatch back the bolster. "Someone gave this to me."


    "Who? Is it a guy?" Xu Xiangxiang frowned.


    "A boy gave it to you?" Mother Xu joined in on the fun.


    Xu Chuanchuan started getting a headache over this situation. Fortunately, Murong Shi stepped forward in time and said, "I gave it to her. Xiangxiang, if you like it, I''ll buy one for you at ater date."


    "Really?"


    Taking advantage of Xu Xiangxiang''s briefpse in attention, Xu Chuanchuan sessfully snatched the whale bolster back and returned it to the bed.


    When Xu Xiangxiang saw how careful her elder sister treated the bolster, she pouted andined, "Why are you so stingy? What''s wrong with letting me hold it for a moment?"


    Rolling her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You''re covered in sweat, and you stink like hell."


    "I don''t stink!" Xu Xiangxiang said unhappily. As if to prove her point and vent her anger, she threw herself onto the bed.


    "Xu Xiangxiang! Get up!" Xu Chuanchuan promptly pounced forward to smack her little sister''s bum.


    Xu Xiangxiang started rolling around after throwing herself on the bed. While doing so, she grabbed the pillow and threw it at Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Immediately afterward, the two sisters started pinching and smacking each other''s bodies.


    Mother Xu was already ustomed to such situations, so she simply shook her head and sighed. Then, she shouted, "Can you two stop being so childish? Little Shi is still here. Are you not ashamed of yourselves?"


    "AhOuch, ouch, ouch!" Xu Xiangxiang''s face wrinkled as she cried out in pain.


    "Don''t give me that. I didn''t even use any strength," Xu Chuanchuan said while tugging on Xu Xiangxiang''s shirt.


    "It really hurts! Something hard is pushing against my back. You get up first."


    Xu Chuanchuan thought Xu Xiangxiang hadid down on her phone, so she helped her little sister up and pushed her aside. Then, when she flipped the nket away, what she saw caused her heart to thump loudly.


    "What''s this?" Xu Xiangxiang reacted swiftly and picked up the item on the bed. "This thing looks familiar It looks like a"


    When Murong Shi, who stood by the door together with Mother Xu, got a clear look at the object in Xu Xiangxiang''s hand, a subtle frown formed on her face.


    "Don''t touch my things!" Xu Chuanchuan screamed as she pounced on Xu Xiangxiang.


    Xu Xiangxiang identally toggled the item''s switch with her finger when Xu Chuanchuan pounced on her, and the thing suddenly started "buzzing." Surprised by the item''s buzzing and vibrations, Xu Xiangxiang loosened her grip, and the object fell to the floor.


    The buzzing device was conical in shape, and it had a long handle and a round head. The head was slightly smaller than an adult''s fist. Apanied by the strange "buzzing" sound, the device started twitching and bouncing on the floor.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned beet red, and she hurriedly crouched down to pick up the device. Unfortunately, she was a second too slow as Xu Xiangxiang beat her to the punch once more.


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes widened as she looked at the vibrating spherical head. Then, in realization, she shouted, "This is a vibrator!"


    Xu Chuanchuan saw her life shing before her eyes.


    Indeed, the device was a vibrator, and it was a gift from Murong Shi during the Qixi Festival.


    The brand was one that Fang Qin rmended, and Murong Shi had secretly asked Fang Qin to buy one for her online. On the night the product arrived, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had eagerly put it to use, and the results were satisfactory. Hence, they had always left it hidden under the pillow.


    How this item came rolling out to the center of the bed was a question Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to think about. Right now, the only thing she could think about was snatching back the vibrator before she lost her mind.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was desperately fighting for the vibrator, Xu Xiangxiang''s voice appeared once more as she said, "Heavens! Sis, why do you have this thing?! Y-Y-You"


    Mother Xu grew puzzled as she watched her two daughters fighting over the vibrating device. Then, she asked Murong Shi, "What''s a vibrator?"


    Murong Shi was a little surprised by the question. After pondering for a moment, she calmly said, "It''s used for massages."


    "Is it good?" Mother Xu asked, eager for more knowledge.


    "..." Murong Shi started having difficulty keeping a straight face. So, she turned her head away, let out a light cough, and said, "It''s quitefortable."


    Upon hearing the word fortable," Mother Xu smiled and said, "Xiangxiang, let me take a look at it."


    Xu Xiangxiang revealed a horrified look upon hearing her mother''s request. Then, she said, "Mom, don''t mess around. This thing is used forUu"


    Xu Chuanchuan finally lost it as she mped Xu Xiangxiang''s mouth shut with one hand and snatched back the vibrator with her other hand. Then, she warned her little sister in a fierce tone, "I''ll reduce your pocket money if you dare say a word!"


    This move was effective no matter the time, and Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly nodded in agreement.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan breathed out a sigh of relief.


    Meanwhile, when Xu Chuanchuan released her little sister''s mouth, Xu Xiangxiang fearlessly said, "You need to hide these things properly!"


    "..." After guiltily ncing at the two people standing by the door, Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth and said, "You shut your mouth!"

 Chapter 73: Pt.1

    Chapter 73: Pt.1


    The vibrator created an awkward situation for everyone. Xu Chuanchuan was especially embarrassed by this situation, and she wanted nothing more than to bury herself into a hole right now.


    While enduring the scrutiny of three piercing gazes, Xu Chuanchuan forced herself to stay calm and hide the vibrator. Then, she bellowed at Xu Xiangxiang, "What are you looking at?! Why aren''t you getting out yet?!"


    Xu Xiangxiang stuck out her tongue at Xu Chuanchuan. However, afraid that she would genuinely anger her elder sister, she still ended up tucking her tail between her legs and quickly made her way out of the room. Just as she was about to reach the door, though, she suddenly stopped as something in the room caught her attention. Then, she eximed, "What a big durian!"


    Seeing the greedy look on Xu Xiangxiang''s face, Murong Shi smiled and asked, "Do you want to eat it?"


    After gulping down her saliva, Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly nodded and said, "I do! It''s been so long since I''ve had any durian!"


    "Why don''t we open it up and share it now, then?"


    "Okay! Okay!" Xu Xiangxiang crouched down to pick up the durian.


    "Be careful of its thorns."


    "It''s fine, it''s fine. I''m taking it out. Sis,e out, and let''s eat it together."


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan had already buried her head into the bed and covered herself with the nket, pretending to be a turtle. When she heard Xu Xiangxiang''s words, she shifted her buttocks a little before weakly saying, "You all go out first."


    Ignorant of the situation, Mother Xu asked, "What''s wrong with her?"


    "...I don''t know, either," Murong Shi lied. Then, she diverted the topic by asking, "Auntie, do you know how to open up this durian?"


    Mother Xu''s attention was sessfully diverted as she said, "That''s simple. I just need a fruit knife."


    "There''s a fruit knife under the coffee table."


    "Leave it to me, then."


    Xu Xiangxiang had already carried the durian outside, so Mother Xu rolled up her sleeves and followed her second daughter.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi waited by the door for several more seconds. After seeing that Xu Chuanchuan was still lying motionlessly on the bed, she walked over, bent down, and gently rubbed the crown of Xu Chuanchuan''s head. Then, Murong Shi said, "Don''t suffocate yourself."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked up and red at Murong Shi. Then, she said, "You''re not allowed to buy any more of these nonsensical things in the future!"


    Murong Shi chuckled when she was subjected to such an absurd usation. "How is this my fault?"


    Xu Chuanchuan vented all of her anger toward Xu Xiangxiang onto Murong Shi''s body, hammering her fists against Murong Shi''s shoulders time and again.


    After this situation continued for a while, Murong Shi caught Xu Chuanchuan''s wrists and said, "Alright, alright, alright. Everything is my fault. I''ll throw it away afterward."


    Unable to use her wrists, Xu Chuanchuan smashed her head into Murong Shi''s chest instead. "I''ve never been so embarrassed in my life!"


    "What are you two doing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body stiffened when a third person''s voice interrupted their conversation all of a sudden. When she looked toward the source and saw that it was Xu Xiangxiang, her anger erupted once more as she bellowed, "Get out!"


    Xu Xiangxiang currently held a fragrant, golden durian fruit in her hand. Looking at her elder sister in surprise, she said, "But I''m not even in your room."


    "Scram!" Xu Chuanchuan showed no mercy whatsoever.


    "..." Xu Xiangxiang shrank her neck a little when subjected to Xu Chuanchuan''s rage. Then, she looked toward Murong Shi and said, "Big Sis Shishi,e out and have some durian."


    "Okay."


    After eating the durian, Mother Xu chatted a little with Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi before hurrying back home.


    Before Mother Xu left, though, the four of them went out for a meal. After the meal, Murong Shi personally drove Mother Xu to the bus station.


    When Mother Xu''s bus departed, Xu Chuanchuan turned toward Murong Shi and longingly said, "I feel that my mom has gotten older again. She didn''t have as many gray hairspared to thest time I went home."


    Holding onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, Murong Shi said, "Everyone will grow old. We are no exception, either."


    Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously thought to lean into Murong Shi''s body. However, when Xu Chuanchuan recalled that she was previously waging a cold war against Murong Shi and noticed that Xu Xiangxiang was just exiting the bus station''s public restroom, she hurriedly released Murong Shi''s hand and said, "Don''t talk to me."


    Unable to keep up with the situation, Murong Shi asked, "What''s the matter this time?"


    Murong Shi tried to hold Xu Chuanchuan''s hand again, only to see Xu Chuanchuan stepping away and desperately signaling her with her eyes. Then, when Murong Shi followed Xu Chuanchuan''s gaze and saw Xu Xiangxiang walking over, she promptly halted her advances.


    While fanning herself with her hand, Xu Xiangxiang walked over andmented, "It''s so hot today."


    "Hurry back to your school, then," Xu Chuanchuan chided.


    Ever since Xu Xiangxiang had identally discovered that vibrator, Xu Chuanchuan had never once treated her nicely. Although Xu Xiangxiang knew that the faulty with herself, she couldn''t help but feel aggrieved by this situation. Then, she puffed up her chest and said, "Sis, Mom already knows."


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Know what?"


    Xu Xiangxiang briefly looked around before saying, "There are too many people here."


    "Let''s get in the car first, then," Murong Shi suggested.


    Afterward, the trio got into the car and turned on the air conditioning, Xu Xiangxiang let out a satisfied sigh.


    "What does Mom know?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, urging her little sister.


    Xu Xiangxiang monopolized the back seat and satzily. Then, she said, "Since Big Sis Shishi isn''t an outsider, I''ll just say it."


    "Enough with the nonsense."


    "Mom already knows what that vibrator is for."


    Xu Chuanchuan was thunderstruck.


    Covering her face in shame, Xu Chuanchuan turned around and red at her little sister through the gaps of her finger. Then, she demanded, "Did you tell her?!"


    Feeling wronged, Xu Xiangxiang said, "I swear on my pocket money in your pockets that I didn''t say anything! You only have yourself to me for overreacting. Your face turned so red back then that it would be strange if Mom didn''t suspect anything."


    <em>How am I supposed to stay calm after my mother and sister see such an embarrassing thing?! </em>Xu Chuanchuan closed her eyes and took deep breaths.


    However, before Xu Chuanchuan could calm down, Xu Xiangxiang spoke once more, "Honestly, it''s no big deal even if Mom finds out. You''re already so old, so it''s normal for you to have needs in that aspect. Mom will understand."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Xiangxiang was the type of person who would die if she didn''t fully speak her mind. Ignoring whether Xu Chuanchuan would respond to her, she continued bbering, "The crucial point is, since you''re so thirsty, couldn''t you just find a boyfriend?"


    "I''m thirsty????" Xu Chuanchuan said in a raised voice, unable to pretend to be mute any longer.


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang said in a righteous tone, "Why would you buy something like that if you weren''t thirsty? Isn''t that right, Big Sis Shishi?"


    "I" Xu Chuanchuan wanted to refute her little sister, but she found herself not knowing what to say when she opened her mouth.


    <em>To begin with, I''m not the one who bought that thing, so why am I shouldering all of the me???</em>


    Although Murong Shi was driving, she had split part of her attention onto the two sisters'' conversation. When she was suddenly named, her lips curled into a smile, and she responded with an "Mhm."


    <em>Mhm?! You still have the gull to agree with her!?</em> Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned red from anger when she heard Murong Shi''s response. Then, she swiftly reached out and pinched Murong Shi''s thigh.


    "Ou" Murong Shi cried out in pain.


    "What''s wrong, Big Sis Shishi?" Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly asked.


    Murong Shi did not answer Xu Xiangxiang immediately. Instead, she sent a nce at the person beside her, and when she met with Xu Chuanchuan''s angry and threatening eyes, she endured the pain and said, "It''s nothing."


    After getting interrupted, Xu Xiangxiang thoroughly forgot about the previous topic. As it so happened, the car passed by a certain iconic building, and she cried out, "It''s Nanjing University! I think Little Yan is still doing her military training. Should we go in and see her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief when she saw that Xu Xiangxiang was finally off her back. Then, looking out the window, she asked, "There''s military training even during the weekend?"


    "Of course. Didn''t you have to go through it as well when you were in university?"


    It had been a few years since she graduated already, so Xu Chuanchuan naturally forgot about all of these things.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi slowed down the car, looked at the clock disyed on the dashboard, and said, "She should be finished with training and heading for lunch soon. Xiangxiang, give Little Yan a call. We''ll head inside if she''s resting."


    "Okay!" Xu Xiangxiang promptly pulled out her phone.


    In reality, Little Yan had just finished her training session and was about to discuss what to eat with her friends. When she received Xu Xiangxiang''s call, she instantly recovered from her exhausted state and had her friends leave without her. Then, she said to the person on the other end of the phone, "Forget lunch! Just buy me something sweet! Also, make sure it''s cold!"


    There was a Hong Kong-style dessert shop near the university, so Murong Shi and Xu Xiangxiang visited the shop and returned with arge bag of items.


    Looking at the big bag of desserts, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why did you buy so many?"


    "Big Sis Shishi bought some for Little Yan''s roommates as well," Xu Xiangxiang answered while sucking on a cup of green bean soup. Then, she handed another cup of green bean soup to Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan epted the green bean soup and inserted a straw into the cup. Just as she was about to start drinking, she noticed that they had only bought two cups of green bean soup.


    Murong Shi had her head lowered and was fastening her seatbelt when she suddenly saw an extra hand and a cup of green bean soup appearing in her vision. Surprised, she turned to look at the owner of this extra hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan deliberately avoided Murong Shi''s gaze and dryly said, "I''ll drink it myself if you don''t want it."


    <em>How long is she going to keep this up?</em> Murong Shi wondered.


    Since the other party had offered her way out of their lovers'' quarrel, Murong Shi naturally seized the opportunity and held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist.


    Xu Chuanchuan turned and looked at the hand that was holding onto her own. Then, she looked at Murong Shi andined through her eyes, "Why did you grab my hand instead of the cup?"


    Murong Shi smiled as she looked at her lover''s silent protest. Then, she leaned toward the straw, took a sip, and released Xu Chuanchuan''s hand before saying, "Thank you."


    Xu Chuanchuan clicked her tongue when she saw Murong Shi''s actions. Then, she bit on the straw and started sipping on the green bean soup as well. However, before she could swallow the drink in her mouth, the person in the back seat suddenly shouted, "My god! Aren''t you two a little too"


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly choked. After swallowing the liquid with great difficulty, she turned around and red at Xu Xiangxiang. Then, she angrily said, "Can you stop being surprised at every little thing?"


    "You''re sharing a straw with Big Sis Shishi?!" Xu Xiangxiang eximed as she stared at the straw stained with her elder sister''s saliva.


    "So what if we''re sharing one? W-What''s so strange about that?"


    "Isn''t that strange?!" Xu Xiangxiang cried out, looking like she had just seen a ghost. "You''ve never even shared a straw with me! You keep saying that my saliva is dirty!"


    Realizing her blunder, Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away guiltily. Then, pretending not to have heard Xu Xiangxiang''s previous words, she continued sipping on the green bean soup in silence.


    This was only a small interlude. After all, it wasn''t so strange for girls to behave intimately with each other. However, for some reason, Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t shake the feeling that there was something strange about the previous exchange between her elder sister and Murong Shi.


    Unfortunately, as Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t tell what exactly felt strange, she eventually sighed and said, "You treat Big Sis Shishi even better than me. You''re definitely not my blood-rted sister."


    Worried that Xu Xiangxiang might grow suspicious, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to follow up with her little sister''s words and said, "I''ve long since said that you were adopted."


    Xu Xiangxiang snorted and stopped speaking.


    When Murong Shi parked the car outside of Little Yan''s dormitory building, Little Yan had long since been waiting for them.


    As soon as they met, Little Yan immediately pulled Xu Xiangxiang into an embrace and pretended to cry as she said, "Military training is so horrible. It''s tiring and sunny. I want to go home."


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang patted Little Yan''s back and caressed her face while saying, "How poor of you. Your face looked so white before, yet it has turned as ck as coal now."


    The corners of Little Yan''s mouth fell, and she wanted to cry for real this time.


    Xu Xiangxiang broke intoughter when she saw Little Yan''s reaction. Then, she consoled, "You have a good foundation, so you still look beautiful even with a tan."


    Little Yan finally smiled.


    The sun was scorching hot, so Little Yan quickly led the group to her room. Apart from Little Yan, three other girls were living in the room. Upon returning, Little Yan quickly distributed the desserts Murong Shi bought to her roommates.

 Chapter 73: Pt.2

    Chapter 73: Pt.2


    Little Yan still had military training in the afternoon. To avoid interrupting her rest, Xu Chuanchuan''s group only stayed for around ten minutes before leaving.


    While standing at the dormitory building''s entrance, Little Yan waved at them and said, "I''ll go find you guys once I''m done with training."


    "Go back and rest," Murong Shi said.


    "Mhm."


    Just as Little Yan had turned around to leave, Xu Xiangxiang suddenly called out to her. Then, Xu Xiangxiang said to the two people beside her, "You two go ahead first. I have some secrets to talk about with Little Yan."


    Surprised, Murong Shi asked, "What secrets could you two have?"


    "Not telling," Xu Xiangxiang responded, giggling.


    "Alright, then. Go ahead," Murong Shi said, habitually wrapping an arm around Xu Chuanchuan and walking away together.


    After Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had moved some distance away, Little Yan eagerly asked, "What did you want to talk to me about?"


    While keeping her eyes focused on the two gradually departing figures, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "Did you notice that my sister and Big Sis Shishi look a bit strange?"


    "No?"


    <em>No? Am I really just overthinking things? </em>Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t help but question herself. However, she quickly shook these useless thoughts out of her mind and dragged Little Yan to a secluded area. Then, she said, "Think carefully. Thest time we went to the beach, weren''t they behaving very intimately with each other? My sister even shelled some shrimps for Big Sis Shishi, while Big Sis Shishi helped my sister wipe her mouth. Also, when the two of them exchange nces, the gaze they used to look at each other, how do I put it It feels like there are affectionate feelings in their eyes. It felt like they weren''t looking at each other as good friends, but as lovers instead."


    <em>They are indeed lovers,</em> Little Yan answered in her mind. However, she remained calm on the surface as she said, "But they''re both girls."


    Revealing an upset expression, Xu Xiangxiang said, "That''s why I think it''s strange!"


    Little Yan started growing a little anxious. She also felt suffocated from having to keep this secret. <em>Should I tell Xiangxiang the truth? But the two people in question want to keep this matter a secret.</em>


    After weighing her options, Little Yan grinned and said, "What''s so strange about that? You and I sometimes go overboard as well. You''re just overthinking things."


    Xu Xiangxiang also found Little Yan''s words to be reasonable. In the end, unable to make up her mind, she mumbled, "Maybe."


    Because of Xu Xiangxiang''s absence inside the car, an awkward situation ensued once more between Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi.


    After shaking off Murong Shi''s hand from her shoulders, Xu Chuanchuan put on a stern expression and said, "You, sleep on the sofa tonight."


    "Is this considered a punishment?" Murong Shi couldn''t help but chuckle.


    "Yes," Xu Chuanchuan said decisively.


    Murong Shipliantly nodded. However, she quickly shook her head and asked, "Can you fall asleep without me?"


    "Better than you think."


    "Is that so?"


    "Of course."


    Without any hesitation, Murong Shi nodded and said, "Okay, I''ll sleep on the sofa. I''ll even sleep on the floor if you want. So, can you stop being mad at me now?"


    "Heh"


    "What''s the matter now?"


    With her arms folded and her face facing forward, Xu Chuanchuan coldly said, "Think about it yourself."


    Thus, Murong Shi started thinking. After pondering for some time, she turned Xu Chuanchuan toward her and said, "I was wrong. I shouldn''t have said you were thirsty."


    Lifting her chin slightly, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Who exactly is the thirsty one?"


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt to appear angry had failed spectacrly. Her eyes werecking ferocity, and her attitude wascking coldness. Her voice also held nary a hint of aggressiveness, and her facial features had stiffened from her trying to keep a stern expression.


    While doing her best to hold back herughter, Murong Shi pointed at herself and said, "It''s me. I''m so thirsty that I might die from thirst if you don''t sleep with me tonight."


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan sneered and said, "You won''t die. Take the vibrator away; you can have fun with it all night long."


    Murong Shi took a long look at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she shamelessly said, "The vibrator isn''t as pleasurable as you."


    "..." Unable to beat Murong Shi in the indecency department, Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away with a blush on her face.


    "Alright, stop being angry. If you still think my apology is not enough, I''ll kneel on the durian once we''re back home. The shell is still there, in any case," Murong Shi said while trying to get Xu Chuanchuan to look at her.


    "Don''t touch me," Xu Chuanchuan said while swatting Murong Shi''s hands away.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "I''m looking at beauties," Xu Chuanchuan said, her eyes practically stuck to the passenger window as she stared outside. "I just found out today that Nanjing University has so many beauties."


    Murong Shi''s face sank when she heard the undisguised joy in her lover''s voice. Immediately, she turned Xu Chuanchuan toward her and said, "I am also a beauty from Nanjing University."


    "You''re outdated already."


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes. Then, she coldly said, "So, are you saying that you''ve grown tired of me and that you''re trying to find a new one?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped upon hearing Murong Shi''s words. Immediately, she nervously said, "No."


    Murong Shi''s expression remained unchanged as she aggressively asked, "No, what?"


    "I''m not tired of you. How can I be tired of you" Xu Chuanchuan timidly said.


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "Give me a kiss, and I''ll believe you."


    <em>Again. It''s this move again.</em> Xu Chuanchuan rued over her actions. Then, in a distressed tone, she said, "...But there are so many people outside."


    "Save it for now, then. Kiss me once we''re home," Murong Shi said, taking advantage of this opportunity to hold Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    Looking at their intertwined hands, Xu Chuanchuan dazedly thought to herself, <em>Did I just get outyed?</em>


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could process her thoughts, the sudden ringing of a phone interrupted her.


    Murong Shi released Xu Chuanchuan''s hand to grab her ringing phone. While Murong Shi was doing so, Xu Chuanchuan nced at the phone and saw the words "Fang Qin" disyed on the screen.


    Murong Shi leisurely epted the call. When she put the phone by her ear, she heard an angry howling from the other side, "I''m so angry!"


    "..." Murong Shi moved her phone a little further away from her ear after nearly having her eardrum ruptured.


    Without waiting for a reply, Fang Qin continued bellowing, "I''m in a bad mood! Come out and drink with me!"


    Confused, Murong Shi asked, "Drinking in the middle of the day? Who angered you this time?"


    "Are youing or not? I''ll drink by myself if you aren''ting," Fang Qin impatiently said.


    Murong Shi briefly looked at Xu Chuanchuan. After a moment of silence, she asked, "Where are you?"


    Half an hourter


    After dropping Xu Xiangxiang back to her university, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan made their way to the pub where they celebrated Xu Xiangxiang''s birthday previously. By the time they found Fang Qin, the woman had already gotten high from alcohol.


    Murong Shi forcibly snatched the beer bottle out of her friend''s hand.


    Meanwhile, upon seeing Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan, Fang Qin weakly pointed at them and unhappily asked, "Why were you so slow? Come,e,e; let''s drink together."


    Seeing that something was wrong with her friend, Murong Shi passed the beer bottle to Xu Chuanchuan and went over to support Fang Qin''s frail body. Then, she asked, "What happened?"


    Fang Qin moved aside the messy hair blocking her line of sight and stared at Murong Shi with reddened eyes. Then, gnashing her teeth, she said, "Why must they push me time and again?!"


    "They?" Murong Shi was puzzled by Fang Qin''s words. After pondering for a moment, she asked, "Your parents?"


    Fang Qin struggled free from Murong Shi''s hands and smiled, though her smile looked much worse than her crying expression. Then, she said, "They arranged a marriage meeting for me a few days ago. They never even brought up the matter with me. Instead, they tricked me. When I arrived at the restaurant they called me to, they had already started discussions with the other side''s parents. That manburpI only met him for the first time there. He looked quite nice and behaved quite like a gentlemanburp"


    Murong Shi quietly listened to Fang Qin while rubbing thetter''s back.


    After letting out another burp, Fang Qin gripped her chest with one hand and extended her other hand toward Xu Chuanchuan. "Gimme the beer."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan held onto the beer bottle with both hands and advised, "You''ve drunk a lot already. Don''t drink anymore."


    "Burp I''ll keep burping if I don''t drink."


    While holding down Fang Qin''s hands, Murnog Shi said to Xu Chuanchuan, "Go get her a ss of water."


    "Okay." Xu Chuanchuan nodded and went to the pub owner to get a ss of water.


    After Fang Qin finished the ss of water and waited for her burping to settle, she asked, "Where was I?"


    "You were talking about how that man behaved like a gentleman," Murong Shi reminded.


    "Hah, gentleman, my ass!" Fang Qin blurted and mmed the ss in her hand onto the table. "After I refused his attempts to invite me out several times, he had the gall toe look for me at my house!


    "My parents were very hospitable to him, and they look more than eager for me to marry him right away.


    "They know I don''t like men. I don''t want to waste the guy''s time, either, so I called my parents to my room and started reasoning with them. However, they refused to listen to me, and we ended up arguing. That guy ended up overhearing our argument, and he left after pointing and cursing at us. After this incident, our arranged marriage failed, and the business dealings between our two families got canceled as well. However, not only did my parents not admit their mistake, but they even med me for being unfilial."


    Fang Qin burst into tears as she spoke. Then, she tightly held onto Murong Shi''s hands and asked, "I just like women. What did I do wrong?"


    Sighing, Murong Shi said, "You didn''t do anything wrong."


    "Since I''m not wrong, why must they corner me time after time?! Why?!"


    "Shh, speak softer," Xu Chuanchuan said while moving closer to hug Fang Qin.


    While crying her heart out, Fang Qin said, "I should''ve never gone home."


    Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but look at each other after listening to Fang Qin''s tale.


    In the end, Fang Qin lost consciousness, and Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan carried her to the car.


    "Why so silent?" After driving a certain distance, Murong Shi finally noticed that the person beside her was behaving strangely.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan nced at the unconscious person in the back seat and hesitantly asked, "If your parents find out about us one day, will they corner you like Fang Qin''s parents?"


    "They won''t," Murong Shi said without hesitation.


    "How are you so certain?"


    There was a red light ahead, so the car gradually came to a stop.


    While holding the steering wheel with one hand, Murong Shi reached out to hold Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and said, "I will maintain my stance regardless of their opinions."


    "What stance?"


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan with a passionate gaze, Murong Shi said, "To be together with you."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart began to beat wildly. Then,pelled by an inexplicable feeling, she abruptly turned toward Murong Shi and stretched out both her arms. However, because of her sudden actions, she ended up triggering the seatbelt''s locking mechanism. As a result, her body came to an abrupt halt, and her arms were left helplessly hanging in the air.


    Murong Shi twisted her eyebrows in confusion at this sight. "What are you doing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wiggled her fingers a little. Then, she summarized the many words in her mind, saying, "Hug."


    Murong Shi was taken aback for a moment. Then, she looked toward the traffic light ahead. When she realized that there was still plenty of time, she leaned aside and embraced Xu Chuanchuan.

 Chapter 74: Pt.1

    Chapter 74: Pt.1


    After discussing it among themselves, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi decided to bring Fang Qin back to thepany dormitory.


    Before Murong Shi could even park the car, Fang Qin suddenly said she wanted to puke. Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi hurriedly helped Fang Qin off the vehicle.


    After puking, Fang Qin remained dazed. When she saw the two people supporting her from both sides, she asked, "Why are you two here?"


    Guessing that Fang Qin had drunk so much that she had lost her memories, Xu Chuanchuan reminded, "It''s you who called us to you."


    "Is that so?" Fang Qin furrowed her brows as she tried to remember what she had been doing before losing consciousness. Then, she suddenly revealed a silly smile as she said, "S-Sorry, I shouldn''t have interrupted you two lovebirds."


    In response, Murong Shi tightened her hold over Fang Qin''s arm and said, "Stop talking nonsense. We''ll bring you upstairs to get some rest first."


    "Upstairs? Where are you...bringing me?"


    Fang Qin continued her drunken ramblings, but neither Xu Chuanchuan nor Murong Shi had the patience to respond to her nonsense.


    After they returned to the dormitory, the first thing they did was help Fang Qin wash up a little beforeying her on the bed. When Fang Qin hit the bed, she closed her eyes and fell asleep after mumbling a few more words.


    The sun outside was still scorching, so the room was still brightly lit. Seeing this, Murong Shi closed the curtains to allow her friend to have a peaceful sleep.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi walked out of the room one after another. As they were temporarily lending their room to Fang Qin, they could only rest on the sofa.


    Upon sitting down on the sofa, Xu Chuanchuan finally realized that she was both physically and mentally exhausted. So, removing all disguises, she weakly rested her head against Murong Shi''s shoulder.


    "Hah"


    Although Murong Shi couldn''t see Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she could tell that the other party was troubled over something. So, she asked, "Are you overthinking things again?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head.


    After hearing Fang Qin''s tale and seeing her agonizing appearance, Xu Chuanchuan had indeed started concerning herself over baseless matters. However, the brief hug Xu Chuanchuan shared with Murong Shi in the car had given her strength, so she tried her best not to feel too depressed. Unfortunately, while she could overlook her own circumstances, she couldn''t overlook Fang Qin''s situation as a friend.


    While sticking closely to Murong Shi''s body, Xu Chuanchuan pondered for a moment before saying, "Fang Qin is so pitiful. Is there anything we can do to help her?"


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether she shouldugh at Xu Chuanchuan''s innocence or praise her lover for her kindness. After a moment of silence, she said, "What can outsiders like us do to help? Are we supposed to confront her parents?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have such intentions, either. After absent-mindedly counting her fingers, she let out a helpless sigh.


    Then, Murong Shi kissed Xu Chuanchuan on the forehead and said, "Don''t frustrate yourself over this matter. I''ve known Fang Qin for over twenty years, so I understand her personality. She isn''t that weak of a person. She might''ve just decided to stop bottling her emotions and vent it all out today. She''ll know what she needs to do once her head is clear. She has always been level-headed."


    "Fang Qin Why did Fang Qin break up with her previous girlfriend?" Xu Chuanchuan had never liked to gossip, but she was especially curious about Fang Qin''s situation at this moment.


    After a slight pause, Murong Shi said, "Simply put, it is also because of both sides'' parents."


    Xu Chuanchuan abruptly straightened her back and sat facing Murong Shi, expressing that she was listening carefully.


    "Fang Qin was the first toe out of the closet. Her parents exploded into a flying rage when they found out, and they threatened to sever rtions with her. However, Fang Qin loved her ex-girlfriend, so she abandoned her work in the country and went to France with the girl."


    Xu Chuanchuan was moved when she heard Murong Shi''s words. "So, Fang Qin is actually such an affectionate person."


    Murong Shi did not deny Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she continued, "Her ex-girlfriend is an art student. They lived in France for three years. However,ter on, the girl''s family found out about her rtionship with Fang Qin, and the girl''s mother used suicide to threaten them to break up. The girl eventually sumbed to the pressure and gave up on Fang Qin."


    "What?!" Although Murong Shi had spoken in a t tone, the more Xu Chuanchuan heard about Fang Qin''s tale, the more frightened and confused she became. After opening and closing her mouth several times, she eventually asked, "Is it so difficult for two people to be together?"


    "Did you get scared?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had indeed been afraid previously. However, after hearing the words Murong Shi said in the car, she had already made up her mind. So, in a determined tone, she said, "I''m not afraid with you here."


    Murong Shi furrowed her brows as if thinking about something. Then, she squeezed Xu Chuanchuan''s palms and said, "You already asked me about it in the car, so it''s my turn to ask you now." After pausing for a slight moment, Murong Shi continued, "If your parents oppose our rtionship, what would you do?"


    This was a question Xu Chuanchuan had dreaded to think about. However, after hearing Murong Shi''s determined answer in the car, she felt that she no longer needed to care about this problem anymore. This was because her heart had long since reached an answer.


    The next moment, Xu Chuanchuan firmly said, "I don''t care what other people think. I won''t leave so long as you remain."


    Murong Shi stared deeply into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, her expression so serious that it seemed a little scary. Then, she said, "You''re not allowed to lie to me."


    Taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I have never lied to you. I am quite a stubborn person. So long as I have set my mind on one thing, I will stick to it regardless of the oue."


    Murong Shi caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s tensed face and revealed a rxed smile. Then, she said, "That, I believe. Looking at how you''ve persisted in writing novels for six years, I can tell that you''re very stubborn."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt warmth enveloping her heart after receiving praise. Then, in a soft voice, she said, "I''m also like that towards people."


    After interacting for so many months, this was the first time they hadmunicated so deeply. Both of them had thoroughly opened up themselves and spoke from the bottom of their hearts.


    Murong Shi rxed her eyebrows andughed in joy.


    They were finally able tomunicate with each other like they usually did.


    While staring at Xu Chuanchuan''s lips opening and closing, Murong Shi suddenly recalled the agreement they made in Nanjing University''s parking lot. Then, she slid her thumb across Xu Chuanchuan''s lips as she said, "You still owe me a kiss."


    The sudden change in topic caught Xu Chuanchuan off guard, and it took her several seconds to snap out of her daze. They had already done every intimate action a couple could do at this point, so Xu Chuanchuan had nothing to be embarrassed about. Immediately, she held onto Murong Shi''s face and kissed her.


    Even though it had only been two days since shest shared any intimacy with Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi felt as if a long time had passed already. And upon feeling the warmthing from Xu Chuanchuan''s lips, she could feel the stone weighing down on her heart disappearing. Immediately, she put her hand on the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s head, enveloped the soft tongue invading her mouth, and took over the initiative.


    As if trying to make up for the intimacy they missed out on for the past two days, the two were very patient in their kiss. There was no lust in their kiss, and they kissed for a long time before reluctantly parting from each other.


    Xu Chuanchuan leaned against Murong Shi''s chest like a frail maiden, her fingers gently tracing along Murong Shi''s alluring corbone.


    Feeling a little ticklish, Murong Shi grabbed onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and kissed it.


    Xu Chuanchuan silently looked at Murong Shi''s profile while she waited for her breath to stabilize. Then, she softly said, "Let''s not fight anymore in the future."


    Xu Chuanchuan had gone through hell these past two days. Even though she had quickly realized how childish her actions had been, she couldn''t bring herself to make up with Murong Shi. And as a result of her guilt, she could neither eat well nor sleep well during these two days.


    Murong Shi''s eyes glowed, realizing that this was Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt to make peace. Then, sensing the atmosphere growing heavier, Murong Shi couldn''t help herself from teasing Xu Chuanchuan, saying, "I never wanted to fight with you. It was you who refused to listen to me."


    Xu Chuanchuan snorted when she heard Murong Shi''s reply and extended a hand to pinch Murong Shi''s waist. However, when she recalled that she had already pinched Murong Shi once in the car, she paused and asked, "Does your leg still hurt?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t intend to be so violent. However, she failed to control her strength at the time because of her embarrassment and anger. When she recalled how loudly Murong Shi had cried out back then, she couldn''t help but worry if she had injured her lover.


    Murong Shi blinked and sternly said, "You''re too ruthless. It hurts even now."


    Xu Chuanchuan panicked a little as she asked, "Will it bruise? Lift your trousers and let me take a look."


    "Hey, hey, hey; you pinched my thigh, so why are you looking at my calf? Why don''t I take off my pants, and you can do a thorough inspection?" Murong Shi yfully suggested.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t question Murong Shi''s suggestion and promptly moved to grab the waistband of Murong Shi''s trousers. However, when she looked up and saw Murong Shi''s yful eyes, she knew that she had been tricked. Then, she looked away and said, "You''re taking liberties with me again. I''m not ying with you anymore."


    Murong Shi simply smiled in response.


    It was already night outside when Fang Qin woke up. However, her mind remained a mess because of all the alcohol she previously consumed, and she couldn''t make any sense of her current location whatsoever. After making her way out of the dark room and seeing the two familiar people messing around on the sofa, though, her consciousness gradually returned.


    After scanning the foreign environment, Fang Qin asked, "Is this the apartment you two are sharing?"


    Murong Shi nced at her friend and briefly summarized, "It''s thepany dormitory."


    Fang Qin replied with a simple "Oh,"cking any interest in this topic.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan climbed out of Murong Shi''s embrace and straightened her wrinkled clothes. Then, she said, "I''ll make you some honey water. It''ll help your hangover."


    After washing up in the bathroom and drinking a cup of concentrated honey water, Fang Qin finally felt life flowing within her body again. Then, revealing a bitter smile, she said, "Sorry, I''ve let you two witness a joke."


    Neither Xu Chuanchuan nor Murong Shi smiled at Fang Qin''s words.


    After scrutinizing Fang Qin''s face, Xu Chuanchuan carefully asked, "Are you alright?"


    A sh of light briefly appeared in Fang Qin''s eyes. Then, she pretended to be calm and said, "I''m fine. It''s no big deal. I''m already used to living by myself, in any case."


    However, Murong Shi continued looking at her friend with a solemn expression. Then, she got straight to the point and asked, "What do you n on doing from now on?"


    Fang Qin''s expression stiffened, and she failed to keep up her smile any longer. Then, as if to vent her anger and frustration, she crumpled the paper cup in her hand, threw it into the trash can, and said, "I''m tired. I''m not going to continue struggling with them anymore."


    "So?"


    "Nothing. I still haven''t thought it through yet. I''ll tell you two once I''ve made a decision," Fang Qin said, unwilling to continue on this topic as she lowered her head and avoided Murong Shi''s gaze. However, her expression returned to normal the next second, and she said, "I''m really sorry for interrupting you two. I even upied your bed."


    "What nonsense are you spouting? Do you even think of us as friends still?" Murong Shi asked, frowning.


    Fang Qin smiled but did not speak.


    After taking a look at the time, Murong Shi said, "We''ve been waiting for you all this time. Since you''re awake now, let''s go out and eat something."


    Without even thinking, Fang Qin said, "No, you two go ahead. I''m going back to pack my things."


    "Pack? Where are you going?" Murong Shi asked in confusion.


    However, Fang Qin simply shrugged in response. Then, she nonchntly said, "Since I can''t stay in that house anymore, I''ll move out of it first before deciding on the future."


    If Murong Shi had such troublesome parents as well, she wouldn''t have wanted to stay at home, either. So, she didn''t intend to dissuade Fang Qin from her actions. Instead, she asked, "Do you need my help?"


    "Not for now," Fang Qin said. Then, she stood up and continued, "Alright, I''ll stop interrupting your alone time."


    However, Murong Shi still didn''t feel at ease. Before Fang Qin left, she reminded, "Call me whenever you need help."


    "I know. Alright, no need to see me off. Bye-bye."


    "You''re leaving?" Everything was happening so quickly that Xu Chuanchuan failed to process the situation.


    Meanwhile, after taking a few steps toward the door, Fang Qin suddenly turned around and walked back to the couple. Then, she solemnly said, "You two must be happy."

 Chapter 74: Pt.2

    Chapter 74: Pt.2


    "You two must be happy," Fang Qin solemnly said.


    In response, Murong Shi wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders and said, "We will."


    "That eases me." After leaving behind a bleak smile, Fang Qin left.


    The time they spent together was short, so Xu Chuanchuan still didn''t fully understand Fang Qin''s character. Even the story about Fang Qin''s ex-girlfriend was something she had only heard from Murong Shi just now. Only today did Xu Chuanchuan realize that Fang Qin had such a sad backstory.


    Although Fang Qin had left the apartment in an elegant manner, when Xu Chuanchuan thought back to Fang Qin''s drunken stupor before, she couldn''t help but sigh ruefully. Then, she threw herself into Murong Shi''s arms and asked, "Will she be alright?"


    This time, Murong Shi couldn''t give Xu Chuanchuan a definite answer.


    That night, the couple didn''t go out for dinner but ordered delivery instead. After finishing their meal, Murong Shi offered to clear out the trash and said, "Go ahead and start writing."


    "I don''t want to write right now."


    "Lacking inspiration?"


    "No." Holding down Murong Shi''s hands, Xu Chuanchuan put on a stern expression and frankly asked, "When did you find out about my pen name?"


    It was finally time to settle ounts.


    Realizing Xu Chuanchuan''s intentions, Murong Shi stopped tidying up the table. Then, she looked through her memories for a moment before saying, "Do you still remember that one time one of your documents got blown out of the window, and you came running to the entrance in a panic to search for it?"


    To be precise, that document was a contract. Meanwhile, written on the contract was Xu Chuanchuan''s pen name and the name of her new novel. It even recorded Xu Chuanchuan''s identification number. Because of this, Xu Chuanchuan had panicked when the wind blew the contract out of the window. Moreover, that was the only time such an incident had happened, so how could Xu Chuanchuan possibly forget about it?


    Widening her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You already found out at that time???"


    "Mhm."


    "So, you were lying to me back then???" Xu Chuanchuan asked in disbelief.


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "I didn''t lie to you. That was just a coincidence."


    "What coincidence?"


    To exin this matter, Murong Shi would have to start by talking about Murong Yan rmending BL novels to her. Because of a typing error, Murong Shi had ended up finding one of Ange''s novels instead of Murong Yan''s rmended BL novel. Meanwhile, after reading Ange''s novel, Murong Shi had followed Ange''s rmendation and read a novel written by an author called Fragrant Citrus. However, the novel was terribly written, so she casually gave the novel a point reduction. That, in turn, caused her to be besieged and insulted by a bunch of Fragrant Citrus''s brain-dead fans.


    "The first time I started reading web novels, I didn''t know about things like point reductions and donations. I got cursed a bunch back then, so I went to give your novel a Deep-water out of spite. Initially, I was only thinking of venting my anger, but I never thought I would coincidentallye across that contract of yours."


    After hearing Murong Shi''s exnation, Xu Chuanchuan finally understood why "Passerby" had sent a Deep-water Torpedo to her novel back then for no reason. It turned out that there were so many details included in the process. She was so surprised by this revtion that she was at a loss for words.


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s dazed expression, Murong Shi tapped a finger on the tip of her lover''s nose and teasingly said, "You dummy. If you hadn''t admitted to the fact that you were that contract''s owner, I would never have suspected that you were ''I Love Mtang.'' As for what happened afterward, I think you don''t need me to tell you, right?"


    Indeed, there was no need to borate on the story further. Xu Chuanchuan already understood everything.


    The next moment, Xu Chuanchuan started hitting the coffee table out of frustration while eximing, "How can I be so dumb?!"


    Murong Shi caught Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and said, "Don''t humble yourself so much. A fool wouldn''t be able to write novels like you."


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled at the praise. Then, in a delighted tone, she said, "I''m quite smart, actually. I''ve long since suspected that you were ''Passerby.'' If you didn''t deliberately mislead me time and again, I would''ve long since stripped you of your disguise!"


    Murong Shi had long since treated the matter of her using a pseudonym to trick Xu Chuanchuan as a part of her ck history. So, she didn''t try to refute Xu Chuanchuan. She was also afraid that Xu Chuanchuan would probe deeper into the matter. Then, she said in an ambiguous tone, "Stripping my disguise is boring. If you want to, I''ll even let you strip off my clothes."


    "These are your words, not mine. Don''t mind if I do, then," Xu Chuanchuan said with an evil grin. Immediately afterward, she pounced on the person in front of her.


    However, Murong Shi swiftly dodged Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Why are you in such a hurry? Let me tidy up first."


    By the time Murong Shi was done tidying up, Xu Chuanchuan had already disappeared into their bedroom and started writing her novel. Seeing this, Murong Shi tactfully sat on the bed and did not interrupt Xu Chuanchuan.


    "I''m done!" Xu Chuanchuan cheered while stretching her back. When she turned around and saw Murong Shi kneeling on the bed and changing the bed sheet, she hurried over to help.


    The old bed sheet had the faint smell of alcohol that Fang Qin left behind. Upon smelling this scent, Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes turned gloomy as she said, "I wonder how Fang Qin is now?"


    In response, Murong Shi said, "She messaged me on WeChat not long ago. She says she has moved into a hotel already."


    "But staying in a hotel isn''t a long-term solution."


    "It''s only temporary. From what she told me, it seems she''s nning to go on vacation."


    "By herself?"


    "Probably."


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more dreary the idea sounded. So, she suggested, "Why don''t we find a girlfriend for her?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi, "From where?"


    "A dating website?" Xu Chuanchuan said, blinking innocently.


    "Are you serious?" Murong Shi asked, her lips twitching.


    Letting out a dryugh, Xu Chuanchuan said, "In our country I don''t think there''s any dating website willing to advertise for homosexuals."


    Murong Shi gave Xu Chuanchuan a knock on the head. Then, she grabbed the pillow and pillow casing from Xu Chuanchuan''s hands, saying, "Alright, that''s enough. Go take a shower first."


    "Okay!" Xu Chuanchuan slipped out of bed and turned off herputer. Just as she was about to go and grab a change of clothes, she suddenly thought of something and said, "By the way, Linda already found out about us."


    Murong Shi was slightly stunned. However, her surprise didn''tst for too long before she retracted her emotions and asked, "What did she say?"


    "She says she is grateful to you for lending her money in her time of need, so she will help keep the secret for us."


    In response, Murong Shi nodded in understanding and said, "We can''t keep this secret hidden forever, anyway. Now that she knows, we won''t have to move around in secret anymore."


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded in agreement. Then, she walked up to the wardrobe and opened it. Just as she was about to reach for a set of pajamas, a strange buzzing sound entered her ears.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be more familiar with this sound. When she turned around toward the source of the sound, she found that Murong Shi was currently testing out the vibrator she had previously hidden away. The vibrator had a total of three settings: low, medium, and high. Murong Shi moved the switch from low to high and high to low, the serious expression she wore while doing so making it look like she was a professional conducting a test.


    Seeing this strange and embarrassing sight, Xu Chuanchuan dryly coughed and asked, "Why are you messing with that thing?"


    "I''m testing to see if it''s broken. Thankfully, it''s not. It seems we can still use it tonight," Murong Shi said with a straight face.


    <em>Tonight</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed. Immediately, she grabbed a random set of pajamas and dashed for the bathroom.


    When Mother Xu and Xu Xiangxiang hade over this morning, Murong Shi had promised Xu Chuanchuan to throw the vibrator away in an attempt to coax her. However, judging by Murong Shi''s actions, Xu Chuanchuan guessed that Murong Shi had probably forgotten about the matter already.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan would''ve felt reluctant if Murong Shi were to throw the vibrator away. After all, the thing cost around 300 yuan, and they had only managed to use it a few times. It would be a huge waste to throw it away.


    With her heart in a turbulent mood, Xu Chuanchuan turned on the shower and let the hot water pour on her.


    <em>I have to wash up thoroughly.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had been so engrossed in showering that she didn''t even notice someone opening the bathroom door. Only after hearing footsteps did she realize someone else was in the bathroom. Then, when she opened her eyes and saw the person in front of her, she cried out, "W-W-Why didn''t you knock?!"


    Murong Shi walked over inrge strides. Then, she calmly said, "What are you afraid of? There are no outsiders here."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t surprised that Murong Shi had barged into the bathroom. After all, this wasn''t the first time the woman had done so. Instead, what surprised her was the vibrator in Murong Shi''s hand. "Don''t tell me you''re thinking of using that here"


    Murong Shi instantly knew that Xu Chuanchuan was having indecent thoughts. So, she deliberately turned on the device. Then, apanied by the familiar buzzing sound, Murong Shi yfully smiled and said, "The package says this thing is waterproof. How about we put it to the test?"


    <em>Bathroom y???</em>


    "No! I don''t want to! The floor here is slippery!" Xu Chuanchuan cried out in horror while retreating from Murong Shi one step after another. However, to no one''s surprise, she inadvertently slipped.


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to fall, Murong Shi quickly reacted and caught the shorter woman in her arms.


    Frightened, Xu Chuanchuanined through theyer of steam separating them, "I told you the floor was slippery!"


    "Couldn''t you tell I was messing with you?" Murong Shi helplessly said. Then, seeing as hot water had already drenched her clothing, she decided to strip down and shower with Xu Chuanchuan.


    Facts had proven that the vibrator was indeed waterproofed. It remained operational even after spending half an hour in the shower. Meanwhile, by the time Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had got out of the shower, Murong Shi was already more than eager to put the vibrator to use.


    The new bed sheet had the smell of sunshine. Currently, Xu Chuanchuanid on the bed partially naked, her eyes dazed, and her head lifted slightly as she softly panted.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi raised the intensity by another degree.


    Xu Chuanchuan clenched her teeth and held onto Murong Shi''s wrist. Then, speaking intermittently, "No...more, it''s too numbing..."


    Murong Shi leaned in to kiss Xu Chuanchuan. While doing so, she moved her thumb to the vibrator''s switch to tune down the vibration''s intensity. However, she identally toggled the device to its highest setting instead.


    Naturally, there was no way Xu Chuanchuan could withstand the intensity. In no time at all, her body spasmed, and she let out a high-pitched scream. Once the spasms stopped, she limply copsed into Murong Shi''s arms.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt a stream of heat gushed out from within her. Realizing what might''ve just happened, burying her head deeply into Murong Shi''s breasts, she said in embarrassment, "I think...I peed..."


    Murong Shi was momentarily startled. Then, when she carried Xu Chuanchuan aside and took a look at the bed, she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    The bed sheet had indeed be drenched, but it wasn''t by some transparent liquid. Instead, something red had stained the bed sheet.


    After snapping out of her daze, Murong Shi pulled apart Xu Chuanchuan''s legs and burst intoughter. Then, she said, "Dearest, it seems your period has paid you an early visit."

 Chapter 75: Pt.1

    Chapter 75: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan''s period arriving one whole week ahead of schedule had caught both Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi off guard. As a result, their intimate moment came to an abrupt halt.


    To make matters worse, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly started feeling a cramping paining from her lower abdomen. In the end, Murong Shi carried her to the bathroom, and the two of them took another hot shower.


    Although the bed sheet was dirtied, the mattress underneath, fortunately, had its stic packaging still on. So, cleaning it was an easy task. And as they didn''t have any extra bed sheets lying around, Murong Shi reused the previously removed one.


    Murong Shi was a little out of breath after she finished recing the bed sheets. Then, when she caught a glimpse of Xu Chuanchuan holding onto her stomach, she hurriedly asked, "Does it hurt?"


    At this point, the blush on Xu Chuanchuan''s face had long since faded and recing it was a paleplexion. Then, after gasping in pain, Xu Chuanchuan feebly said, "My periods never hurt before. I don''t know what''s going on this time."


    Seeing as there was no brown sugar in the apartment, Murong Shi made a cup of honey water for Xu Chuanchuan. After drinking it, Xu Chuanchuan felt a little better.


    "I''m sorry," Xu Chuanchuan apologized with a guilty expression as sheid in Murong Shi''s arms.


    While helping Xu Chuanchuan massage her lower abdomen, Murong Shiughed and asked, "What''s with the apology?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes darted around for a moment before she said, "You still haven''t"


    The atmosphere before had been wonderful. Adding on to the fact that they hadn''t had sex for a few days now, the two of them had been very eager to do it just now. If it wasn''t for her period, they might have been able to have fun for the entire night.


    In response, Murong Shi looked at the woman in her arms with a gentle gaze and said, "I''ll put it on your tab for now."


    "I''ll help you with it," Xu Chuanchuan said before struggling out of Murong Shi''s arms.


    "What are you looking for?" Murong Shi asked as she watched Xu Chuanchuan ruffling about, searching for something.


    "That thingy. Where did you throw it?"


    It took a moment for Murong Shi to realize that Xu Chuanchuan was talking about the vibrator. Then, she caught Xu Chuanchuan''s fumbling hands and said, "No need to look for it. It''s out of batteries."


    "Already?" Xu Chuanchuan reacted in surprise.


    Murong Shi pulled on Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and started nibbling on thetter''s lips. Then, she said, "Don''t be so depressed. I''m not that thirsty."


    Despite Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan still felt somewhat guilty about the situation. So, aspensation, she gave Murong Shi a passionate kiss.


    This time, Murong Shi was the first to run out of breath. After letting go of Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi pressed the shorter woman''s head tightly into her bosom and hoarsely said, "Sleep."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s period this time was ruthless, and it put her through unbearable pain.


    For the next few days, Murong Shi had Aunt Lian make chicken soup for Xu Chuanchuan every day to help with the menstrual cramps. She would also conscientiously wash both their underwear every day. And even when Xu Chuanchuan felt parched and wanted to drink water, Murong Shi would bring a ss for her right away.


    Never had Xu Chuanchuan received such a caring service before. As she watched Murong Shi busily moving in and out of the room while she was lyingfortably in bed, she jokingly said, "I feel like I''m going through childbirth."


    After removing the rubber gloves she wore, Murong Shi came over and helped raise the whale bolster Xu Chuanchuan was leaning against. Then, she said, "It''s a pity there''s no child involved."


    Going along with the flow, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you like children?"


    Murong Shi looked down at Xu Chuanchuan with a gentle smile. Then, she softly asked, "If I say I like them, are you willing to give them to me?"


    Whenever Murong Shi looked at her with such a gaze, Xu Chuanchuan would find herself caving into whatever demands Murong Shi had. This time was no exception, and she had very nearly said, "I''m willing." However, she snapped out of her daze before doing so. Then, she said, "I can''t give birth to any even if I''m willing. There''s no such technology avable right now."


    "That''s a pity," Murong Shi said, pretending to put on a regretful look. Then, while caressing Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she continued, "But no matter. Even if I don''t have children, I''m satisfied so long as I have a wife."


    Even during the most intimate moments in their several months of interaction, they would only refer to each other as "Dearest" or "Darling." This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had heard the term "wife"ing out of Murong Shi''s mouth. Even so, she found the term surprisingly pleasant to the ears.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart trembling slightly. Then, after regaining her bearing, she said in a shaky voice, "Who''s your wife..."


    "You are."


    Resolve filled these two words.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but smile when she heard Murong Shi''s reply. However, she quickly retracted her smile and said, "You can''t casually use this term. If you want to use it, you''ll have to bear the responsibility for it for the rest of your life."


    With a passionate gaze, Murong Shi said, "Let alone this lifetime, I''ll even bear it for the next life and the one after that."


    Pillow talk was intoxicating, and Xu Chuanchuan felt herself close to floating into the clouds. Then, after calming herself, she said, "Don''t speak too soon. We might not even meet in the next life."


    "Just say whether you''re willing or not."


    "Let me think" Xu Chuanchuan put on a pondering look.


    After waiting for several seconds and not getting an answer, Murong Shi started growing impatient. So, she pounced on Xu Chuanchuan and started tickling her while asking, "Are you willing, or not?"


    Xu Chuanchuan giggled and rolled around on the bed. Then, less than half a minuteter, she surrendered and said, "I''m willing! I''m willing! Stop tickling! Ah!"


    Murong Shi finally released Xu Chuanchuan after hearing a satisfying answer. Then, she made her way to the makeup table and picked up a tube of lipstick.


    After tidying up her messy hair and clothing, Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi''s actions and asked, "You''re putting up makeup thiste at night?"


    Murong Shi had exquisite facial features. Her eyes, in particr, were vivid and unique. She would look gorgeous even if she wore nothing but lipstick as makeup. Meanwhile, the lipstick she chose this time was a red one. Despite the lipstick having such an intense color, Murong Shi did not look tacky in it at all.


    Murong Shi did not reply to Xu Chuanchuan''s question. Instead, after pursing her thin lips, she slowly walked back to the bed.


    "How does it look?"


    In Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, Murong Shi was wless even without any makeup. The woman was nothing short of a fairy. Murong Shi''s beauty was so captivating that it had already captivated Xu Chuanchuan the first time she met Murong Shi. And at this point, Xu Chuanchuan had fallen so deep that she could no longer extricate herself from Murong Shi''s beauty.


    Her eyes thoroughly attracted toward Murong Shi''s gorgeous lips, Xu Chuanchuan subconsciously nodded and said, "It looks good. Is this a new lipstick?"


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought Murong Shi had the sudden urge to show off her newly bought lipstick, hence this situation. However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Murong Shi suddenly leaned in, held her head, and urately nted her lips on hers.


    Xu Chuanchuan was slightly stunned.


    The kiss was but a simple one, and Murong Shi quickly released Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, even after the separation, Xu Chuanchuan was still feeling a little dazed by this situation.


    Murong Shi wasn''t trying to kiss Xu Chuanchuan. Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s dazed expression, Murong Shi looked at the lips that were stained by her lipstick and raised an eyebrow, saying, "You belong to me now that I''ve ced my seal. Nobody is allowed to steal you from me from now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan lifted a hand and tried to wipe her lips. However, she paused before she could enact her thoughts.


    In all honesty, Xu Chuanchuan never thought Murong Shi would make such a move. Although it was a little childish, she still felt warmth enveloping her heart.


    Women were vain creatures, and Xu Chuanchuan was no exception. With how excellent a person Murong Shi was, she could easily find a girlfriend much better than Xu Chuanchuan. Yet, she did not.


    For an instant, Xu Chuanchuan had the urge to go to a high ce and announce to everyone in the world, Look, this is my girlfriend. She belongs to me alone.


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly wanted to cry.


    Sniffling, Xu Chuanchuan said in self-ridicule, "Who would even want someone like me? Only someone as blind as you would find me attractive."


    Xu Chuanchuan admitted that she had low self-esteem.


    In response, Murong Shi held up Xu Chuanchuan''s head and said, "I''m not blind. You''re worth my love."


    Xu Chuanchuan hated herself for being unable to take a hint. Moving her mouth, she said, "I have average looks and no special abilities. If someday...someday you meet someone better than me, and if you like this person, I won''t me you. Really."


    Murong Shi''s expression darkened. "Am I that much of a faithless person in your heart?"


    "I didn''t mean that. I" Xu Chuanchuan stammered.


    "Xu Chuanchuan," Murong Shi interrupted with a serious expression on her face.


    "Hm?" Xu Chuanchuan suddenly started growing nervous.


    Murong Shi admitted that she wasn''t perfect when it came to sweet-talking. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan''s words had made her very unhappy. However, when Murong Shi looked deeper into the matter, she couldn''t help but wonder if the problemy with herself.


    After readjusting her emotions, Murong Shi softly asked, "Am I not doing well enough?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly shook her head and said, "No, you''ve done really well. The problem lies with me."


    "Your problem is that you fail to see your own strong points."


    "...What strong points do I have? I''m stingy, dumb, and silly. I also eat a lot."


    Murong Shi revealed an angry smile. Then, crossing her arms, she leisurely looked at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Who said that?"


    With a sullen expression, Xu Chuanchuan said, "My little sister is the one who said I''m stingy, while you were the one who called me dumb and silly. You also said I eat a lot."


    Murong Shi choked for a moment. Then, she said, "I never said that you were dumb and silly."


    "What do you mean ''never''?! I remember it clearly!"


    "When?"


    "You said that immediately after joining my reader group as Passerby Shi!" Xu Chuanchuan stated confidently with her chest puffed up.


    Murong Shi revealed a troubled expression. Then, she said, "Did I? I don''t remember it at all."


    <em>Do you think I''ll fall for that?</em> Not believing Murong Shi''s act for even a second, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her phone and said, "Just you wait. I''ll bring up the chat history for you."


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan opened up her QQ messenger and entered her reader group, she suddenly recalled that she had only recently removed "Passerby Shi" from the chat.


    Can I still find the chat history even after kicking her out of the group?


    While Xu Chuanchuan was pondering this question, she suddenly had her phone snatched out of her hands.


    Meanwhile, after putting the phone to a ce where Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t reach, Murong Shi walked back to the bed and said, "I''m sorry, I shouldn''t have said that about you back then. Not only are you not dumb and silly, but you are even smart and cute."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan decided not to bring up old ounts after being praised.


    Then, Murong Shi knelt on the bed and carefully helped Xu Chuanchuan wipe the excess lipstick off of her lips, saying, "By the way, your words just reminded me of something."


    While letting Murong Shi have her way with her, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What is it?"


    "The thing you''ve been worried about should be my worry instead. I''m scared that you''ll move on to another person in the future."


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless. Then, she asked, "How is that possible? Who else could make me fall for them?"


    Staring straight into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, Murong Shi said, "Tang Xin."

 Chapter 75: Pt.2

    Chapter 75: Pt.2


    "Tang Xin."


    <em>Ange?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan thought she had misheard. After a slight pause, she said, "What are you talking about? I already told you many times that she and I are just good friends."


    "You might not like her that way, but she likes you."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan was greatly shocked. "She doesn''t like me, either. You must''ve misunderstood her."


    However, Murong Shi calmly replied, "I have eyes. I can tell."


    "She was only putting on an act to trick youst time," Xu Chuanchuan said,ughing nonchntly.


    "You''re too innocent."


    "What?"


    Murong Shi did not reveal any emotions on her face. However, her dark eyes appeared to be hiding a certain kind of emotion. After remaining silent for a moment, she suddenly smiled and said, "It''s nothing. It''s not important anymore. Now that she''s so far away, she won''t have a chance to steal you from me even if she wants to."


    Xu Chuanchuan chose to remain silent. She had already exined to Murong Shi many times regarding her rtionship with Ange. However, Murong Shi refused to believe her every time. As a result, Ange became a sensitive topic among them, and she would try to avoid bringing up Ange whenever possible.


    Suddenly, spurred by her jealousy, Murong Shi held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s head and gave thetter another "stamp" on her face.


    Apart from the face and neck, Murong Shi also stripped Xu Chuanchuan of her clothing and nted kisses on all sorts of ces. Even after her lipstick had been rubbed offpletely, she still did not spare Xu Chuanchuan.


    In the end, Xu Chuanchuan became covered in hickeys. If not for her period, Murong Shi might''ve even stripped her of her underwear.


    To make matters worse, with nowhere to vent the mes of lust burning within her, Xu Chuanchuan felt like she was being put through hell that night.


    "It''s over! It''s over! There''s even one on my neck! How am I supposed to go to work like this?!"


    Early the next morning, Xu Chuanchuan fell into a panic when she looked at herself in the mirror.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shizily got out of bed and said, "Let me see."


    The mark in question was located on the right side of Xu Chuanchuan''s neck. Although Xu Chuanchuan had tried covering it up with her hair, her hair was too short to hide itpletely. She would expose the mark with even the slightest of movements.


    After hearing Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan turned around and resentfully red at the taller woman.


    Murong Shi lifted Xu Chuanchuan''s hair and took a look at the hickey. Then, without even frowning, she said, "That''s simple. I''ll help you cover it up with some concealer."


    Xu Chuanchuan put on a miserable look as Murong Shi sat her down in front of the mirror. Then, she asked, "What if you can''t hide it?"


    Facts hadter proven that the concealer was indeed incapable of hiding the hickey.


    The hickey''s coloration was too intense, and no matter how much concealer Murong Shi applied, one could still notice a difference in color around that area. Finally, Murong Shi put down the concealer in her hand and said, "Take the day off, then."


    "What if it''s still there tomorrow?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "Continue taking leave until it disappears, then."


    <em>Wouldn''t I look silly to take leave for such a small matter? </em>Xu Chuanchuan shook her head. Then, she picked up a tube of lipstick on the table and said, "If all else fails, just color my entire neck red. If anyone asks, I''ll just say I had an allergic reaction."


    "What kind of stupid idea is this?" Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh at her lover''s suggestion. Then, she patted Xu Chuanchuan on the shoulder and said, "I think I have an idea."


    "Did we get a new hire?"


    "I didn''t hear anything about it."


    "Who''s that long-haired beauty in front, then? I don''t think I''ve ever seen her before."


    "Wow! Her legs look so thin, and her back profile looks nice as well. I wonder what her face looks like?"


    "Why don''t you go take a look?"


    "You go."


    "Me?"


    "Hurry up. I think she''s going to the pantry. You''re going to miss your chance if you don''t go now."


    "Fine, fine, fine. I''ll pretend to go greet her."


    After a quiet discussion between the two men in the corridor, one of them decided to chase after the distancing lithe figure.


    However, the person in front suddenly hastened her footsteps.


    Seeing this, the man panicked and simrly hastened his footsteps. Then, he called out, "Beauty, you dropped something."


    Hearing this, the "beauty" stopped walking.


    When the man caught up to the woman and saw her face, he was first stunned. Then, he revealed a disappointed look as he said, "What the heck, why is it you, Little Xu?"


    Indeed, the "beauty" with the graceful back, slim figure, and long, curly hair was none other than Xu Chuanchuan.


    After stating that she had an idea this morning, Murong Shi left the dormitory for some time and returned with a wig for Xu Chuanchuan. The wig was sufficiently long and was styled to have loose curls. After moving parts of the wig to the front, it had perfectly covered up the hickey on Xu Chuanchuan''s neck.


    "Mhm, not bad," Murong Shi said while admiring her "creation." Then, she said, "You should stop trimming your hair from now on. Once it grows out, switch to this hairstyle. It makes your face look smaller and nicer."


    Xu Chuanchuan was azy person. In her 25 years of life, she had never grown her hair beyond her shoulders. She would always have it cut whenever it started to get troublesome to manage, so she had never seen how she looked with long, curly hair.


    The more Xu Chuanchuan looked at herself in the mirror, the more she liked Murong Shi''s suggestion. Then, she said, "I won''t cut it anymore from today onward."


    To make her lover look even more perfect, Murong Shi put on light-pink makeup for Xu Chuanchuan. Before putting on the lipstick, she even took advantage of the opportunity to kiss Xu Chuanchuan and said, "My girlfriend is so beautiful."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart fluttering from the praise.


    However, after her happiness subsided, another problem cropped up.


    To avoid suspicion, the two of them would always leave the apartment at different times. Today was no exception, and Xu Chuanchuan left the apartment five minutes after Murong Shi left.


    When Xu Chuanchuan went to the front desk to clock in for work, she came across Xu Xiaomei. Then, thetter stopped her and asked, "Excuse me, but may I know who you''re looking What the? You''re Little Xu???"


    "Morning," Xu Chuanchuan replied with an awkward smile.


    Immediately, Xu Xiaomei''s eyes widened as she asked, "Since when did your hair grow so long? Did you get an extension?"


    "Uh, this is a wig."


    "Let me touch it!" Xu Xiaomei cried out excitedly.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan panicked when she thought Xu Xiaomei would pull away the loose hair covering her hickey.


    Fortunately, Xu Xiaomei only gently caressed it and said, "It feels so real! Where did you buy it?"


    "Someone gifted it to me."


    Then, Xu Xiaomei grinned and asked, "Don''t tell me your boyfriend gave it to you?"


    Going with the flow, Xu Chuanchuan nodded and said, "That''s right."


    Puffing up her cheeks a little, Xu Xiaomei said, "Your boyfriend treats you so well. He gave you flowers from Roseonlyst time. Now, he''s given you a wig. How enviable."


    Taking Xu Xiaomei''s words as praise for Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan revealed a happy smile.


    Then, when Xu Xiaomei''s sight shifted downward and noticed the handbag Xu Chuanchuan was carrying, her eyes glowed as she eximed, "Isn''t this one of Chanel''stest models?! I saw it on disy thest time I went out shopping. I liked it a lot, but it was too expensive, so my husband wouldn''t buy it for me. Don''t tell me your boyfriend gave this to you as well?"


    The handbag belonged to Murong Shi, and she had stated that its style and color matched Xu Chuanchuan''s outfit today. Initially, Xu Chuanchuan had tried refusing it, seeing as her outfit didn''t evene close to matching the handbag''s price. However, Murong Shi had insisted that she use the bag for today.


    Xu Chuanchuan also expected that someone was bound to recognize the bag, so she was already prepared for Xu Xiaomei''s question. Without even thinking, she said, "This? It''s an imitation. I bought it on Taobao."


    "Imitation??? Doesn''t it look a little too real?! Is it expensive?"


    "It shouldn''t be too expensive"


    "In that case, send me the linkter. I''m going to buy one as well."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt like she had shot herself in the foot.


    After giving a few excuses, Xu Chuanchuan finally managed to pry herself free from Xu Xiaomei''s pestering. Then, she promptly fled from the front desk.


    Xu Chuanchuan hade to work early, so the other people in the Engineering Department had yet to arrive. Seeing this, she decided to fetch herself a cup of water. And as luck would have it, she came across two male colleagues that had just arrived for work.


    Meanwhile, the man who called out to her was one of the salespeople newly recruited this year. After getting called out, Xu Chuanchuan greeted the other person, saying, "Morning."


    "Morning," the male colleague said before scrutinizing Xu Chuanchuan. Then, he suddenlyughed and said, "I thought we were getting a new beauty in thepany. I didn''t think it would be you, Little Xu. Hah, what a pity."


    "...A pity?"


    Shrugging, the male colleague said, "I didn''t think you were so pretty before. But everyone knows that you''re a flower with an owner now, so isn''t that a pity?"


    Xu Chuanchuan let out a dryugh but did not follow up with the male colleague''s words.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was in the pantry filling up her mug, she came across a few other male colleagues. Meanwhile, every one of them had the same reaction when they saw her. After this situation repeated several times, Xu Chuanchuan''s face had gotten stiff from all the smiling.


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to walk back into the Engineering Department''s office, she heard a strange "hissing" sounding from behind her. Immediately, she turned around to look at the source.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan realized it, the door to the general manager''s office had opened, and Murong Shi was leaning against the door with her legs crossed. After seeing Xu Chuanchuan turn around, Murong Shi hooked her finger at the shorter woman.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly looked around. After making sure that nobody else was around, she skipped over to Murong Shi and asked, "Want some water?"


    In response, Murong Shi lifted the mug in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and took a gulp out of it without hesitation. Then, she signaled Xu Chuanchuan to enter her office.


    "I still have a lot of work waiting for me," Xu Chuanchuan said. However, despite her words, she still obediently entered the office.


    After Murong Shi locked the door behind her, her eyes thoroughly scanned Xu Chuanchuan''s body before she said, "It''s been less than ten minutes since you came to work, yet I''ve already seen more than ten men pestering you."


    "There are women as well They''re all curious how I managed to grow out my hair so suddenly," Xu Chuanchuan said, sticking out her tongue. Then, she put on a bright smile and continued, "They also praised me for my looks today. Your makeup skills are truly amazing."


    Murong Shi quietly observed Xu Chuanchuan for a moment. Then, she took away the cup in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, walked to the back of her desk, and started rummaging through her handbag.


    "What are you doing?" Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi taking two items out of the bag but failed to see what those items were.


    Then, Murong Shi sat down in her oversized office chair, patted her thighs, and said, "Come here."


    "I still need to go back to work."


    "It''ll only take a few minutes. Hurry up."


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan walked over and sat down on Murong Shi''sp. "Hey, It''s working hours now."


    "I called you here because of work."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could figure out how sitting on her boss''sp constituted work, she finally got a clear look at the items in Murong Shi''s hands.


    It was a bottle of cleansing oil and a box of cotton pads.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew even more confused. "What are you trying to do?"


    While leisurely squeezing some cleansing oil onto a cotton pad, Murong Shi said, "I''m helping you remove your makeup."


    "Huh? Why?"


    Instead of giving an immediate reply, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and slightly lifted her lover''s face. Then, she pressed the cotton pad on Xu Chuanchuan''s lips before saying, "It''s not a good thing for my girlfriend to look too good, either."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    It would seem that a certain jealous bug was acting up again.

 Chapter 76: Pt.1

    Chapter 76: Pt.1


    On Friday night, Fang Qin called and invited Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi out for dinner. The venue was a Korean barbeque restaurant that opened up recently.


    When Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi arrived at the restaurant, Fang Qin had already waited for half an hour.


    However, Fang Qin didn''tin about the dy this time. Fang Qin was dressed casually tonight, and she looked veryid-back. Upon seeing Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi, she joked, "You two are so slow. You know you don''t need to pay so much attention to dressing up when meeting with friends, right?"


    Murong Shi pulled out a chair for Xu Chuanchuan.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan sat on the chair and awkwardly smiled, saying, "No, it''s mainly because there were still too many people in the office just now. We had to wait for most of them to leave before we could leave ourselves. The traffic on the way here was quite congested as well."


    Fang Qin''s face froze for a second when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, a gloomy expression appeared on her face as she said, "I guess we''re all having it rough."


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi looked at each other upon hearing Fang Qin''sment.


    Then, Murong Shi looked toward the person sitting opposite of her and said, "I''ll say it first, but no alcohol tonight."


    It would be boring to eat barbeque without alcohol, so Fang Qin initially wanted to protest. However, after recalling a certain incident, she shrugged and said, "So be it. Life''s tough, so let''s have something sweet."


    A sense of helplessness filled fang Qin''s words. When Xu Chuanchuan saw that Fang Qin''s current mental state mainly remained the same as it did during the drunken incident, she couldn''t help but grow a little worried.


    Meanwhile, sensing the worried gaze from Xu Chuanchuan, Fang Qin scratched her head andughed. Then, she said, "What are you looking at me like that for? Did I botch my eyeliner? Or did I get some lipstick onto my teeth?"


    "...No." Seeing as Fang Qin was smiling, Xu Chuanchuan forced herself to smile as well. Though, an awkward silence ensued as neither of them knew what to say in this situation.


    When ordering the food, Murong Shi asked the other two at the table for their opinions. Then, when the ingredients and jug of coconut juice they ordered arrived, they started grilling the meat by themselves.


    Although having to cook their own food meant that they would be spending a lot more time on their meal, this kind of atmosphere was perfect for holding conversations. So, Fang Qin started making conversation during the grilling process.


    Murong Shi wasn''t keen on eating barbeque, so she was mainly responsible for grilling. Once the food was ready, she would serve it to Xu Chuanchuan and Fang Qin.


    Fang Qin wholeheartedly enjoyed the food. Then, when she saw Murong Shi skillfully tending to Xu Chuanchuan, she half-jokingly said, "You finally look more like a human."


    Looking at her friend, Murong Shi calmly asked, "Was I a ghost previously?"


    With food still in her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan covered her mouth and secretly smiled.


    Fang Qin drank her ss of coconut juice like she was drinking alcohol. After downing the whole ss in one fell swoop, she let out a loud sigh of satisfaction. Then, she casually said, "You used to ignore everyone around you. You also looked like everyone in the world owes you money. Now, though, you look like a grandmother taking care of her granddaughter."


    Feigning anger, Murong Shi said, "Who''s a grandmother? You''re several months older than me."


    Then, Fang Qin looked at Xu Chuanchuan, who was silently enjoying the food and smiled, saying, "This is all thanks to you, Chuanchuan. It is you who changed Murong."


    Xu Chuanchuan wiped the grease on her lips and said in embarrassment, "I don''t have that kind of ability."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi smirked and said, "Fang Qin is right."


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless this time, though her vanity was greatly satisfied. To express her happiness, she fed a piece of pork belly to Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi took her time chewing on the meat. Then, she concluded, "It''s not sufficiently grilled. It''s also a little too greasy."


    Xu Chuanchuan picked up the ss of coconut juice in front of her and served it to Murong Shi.


    "Hey, hey, hey" Fang Qin tapped her chopsticks against her bowl in protest. "Can you stop torturing my eyes?"


    At this mention, Xu Chuanchuan decided to hold back a little.


    Partway through the meal, Fang Qin suddenly asked, "When do you two n oning out?"


    There were still other guests in the restaurant, so Fang Qin had spoken rather vaguely. Even so, the two people seated across her understood her words.


    Xu Chuanchuan stopped eating and looked toward Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi also looked toward Xu Chuanchuan, her gaze focused. Then, she firmly said, "I''m fine anytime."


    Like so, Murong Shi threw the problem into Xu Chuanchuan''s hands. Xu Chuanchuan''s mind instantly went nk, and she opened and closed her mouth several times as she hesitated to speak. Then, she timidly said, "Let''s wait a while longer"


    Hearing this, Murong Shi lightly chuckled and said, "Mhm, no rush."


    Such in-depth topics were unsuitable to be discussed in such a public ce, so Fang Qin quickly changed the topic, saying, "Actually, the main reason I invited you two out tonight is to say goodbye."


    "Goodbye?" Surprise, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you leaving?"


    After cing a piece of raw meat onto the grill, Fang Qin casually said, "Mhm. I even applied for leave already."


    Murong Shi had already heard about this before, so she wasn''t too surprised by the news. While flipping the meat on the grill, she asked, "Where will you be going?"


    Fang Qin pondered for a moment before saying, "I''m nning to head south first, though I won''t be traveling very far away."


    "By yourself?" Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but ask.


    "By myself. I want to try being a backpacker."


    "Won''t it be...dangerous?"


    Fang Qin knew that Xu Chuanchuan was worried about her, so she nonchntly smiled and said, "It''s exciting precisely because it''s dangerous."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan was shocked.


    "I''m kidding," Fang Qin said, waving her hand. Then, she put on a serious expression and continued, "I think it''s quite good to travel alone. I can do whatever I want and go wherever I want."


    Although Fang Qin had spoken in a calm tone and wore a rxed expression, the two people seated across her couldn''t rx at all.


    "I read a travel guide saying that Yunnan is a good ce to visit and that the most rmended tourist spots are Dali and Lijiang. For now, I''m still considering which city I should visit first," Fang Qin said, a fascinated expression appearing on her face.


    After watching her friend performing a one-man act for some time, Murong Shi said, "I heard Lijiang is a ce for romantic encounters."


    "I''ll head to Lijiang first, then," Fang Qin said, smacking the table. "I''ve been single for so long now. It would be nice if I can have a romantic encounter as well."


    Murong Shi took a long look at her friend. Then, she said, "Remember to pay attention to your safety."


    "Don''t worry."


    The next day, Fang Qin started her journey toward the rumored "City of Romantic Encounters" Lijiang.


    When Fang Qin''s parting message arrived, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan were still asleep. After waking up and seeing the message, Murong Shi called Fang Qin immediately, only to be notified that the other party had turned off her phone already. So, Murong Shi guessed that Fang Qin had probably gotten on a ne already.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan woke up with a yawn, her hair looking like a bird''s nest. Then, after hearing about Fang Qin''s departure from Murong Shi on their way to the bathroom, she hoarsely said, "Let''s hope she returns with a girlfriend."


    Murong Shi did not make anyments. After passing the electric toothbrush to Xu Chuanchuan, she said, "Little Yan''s military training is over. I''m going to pick her up afterward."


    With the electric toothbrush buzzing inside her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan vaguely said, "I''ll go with you."


    "Mhm."


    After going through another week of military training, Little Yan''s tan had gotten even darker, and she startedining as soon as she got into the car. "The sun is terrifying! Look at my face and neck! Also, look at my arms and legs! This is just from two weeks of military training!"


    While holding back herughter, Xu Chuanchuan consoled the girl, saying, "It''s alright. You''ll recover during winter."


    "I guess you''re right," Little Yan said optimistically.


    To celebrate Little Yan finishing her military training, Murong Shi offered to treat the girl to avish meal.


    However, Little Yan said, "I don''t want avish meal. I want to eat barbeque, the one Chuanchuan shared on social mediast night. It looked so good!"


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It was quite delicious."


    To satisfy Little Yan''s cravings, Murong Shi drove them to the same Korean barbeque restaurant without hesitation.


    Seeing the sisterly rtionship between Murong Shi and Little Yan, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought of Xu Xiangxiang. So, Xu Chuanchuan tried to call her little sister and ask if she wanted to join them for the barbeque.


    However, Little Yan stopped Xu Chuanchuan and said, "No need to call her. I already talked to her just now. Xiangxiang should be getting ready to live stream right now."


    "Live stream?" Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know about this matter.


    "That''s right. She previously invited me to have fun at the water park, but I refused because I don''t want to go to crowded ces with how I look. Having nothing better to do, she decided to live stream during the weekend and earn some pocket money."


    Xu Chuanchuan remained silent.


    Ever since Xu Xiangxiang had transferred 20,000 yuan to her, asking her to return it to Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan had stopped opposing Xu Xiangxiang''s decision to live stream. She was even moved by how Xu Xiangxiang had seemingly be more sensible.


    However, after listening to Little Yan''s words, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but grow a little worried. After all, the holidays were over already, and Xu Xiangxiang always had bad grades. What if her desire to earn money affected her studies?


    Worried that she would be interrupting her little sister''s live stream, Xu Chuanchuan switched to sending a WeChat message instead. In her message, she repeatedly reminded Xu Xiangxiang to focus on her studies and not put the cart before the horse.


    However, Xu Xiangxiang did not reply to the message immediately.


    After the meal, Little Yan revealed a contented expression. Then, Murong Shi asked her if there was anywhere else she wanted to visit.


    While rubbing her belly, Little Yan said, "I don''t want to go anywhere. I just want to go home to pet my cat and have a nap."


    "You have a cat at home?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, pleasantly surprised.


    Nodding eagerly, Little Yan said, "That''s right. I own a British Shorthair. It''s five years old now, and it''s ck and round. It''s adorable, and I love sleeping while holding it in my arms. Though, it''s been half a month since I went home. I wonder if it still remembers me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled.


    "In that case, I''ll send you home," Murong Shi said.


    In response, Little Yan considerately said, "No need for that. It''s the weekend right now, so you should spend your time with Chuanchuan. I''ll take a taxi home."


    Seeing Little Yan''s insistence, Murong Shi had no choice but to agree.


    Then, Little Yan grinned and said, "I''m leaving now, bye-bye! See you next time!"


    "Bye-bye," Xu Chuanchuan waved at the girl.


    Little Yan had long arms and legs, and she looked like a lovely little girl from the back. She also had a carefree personality, shown by how she was hopping and skipping toward the main road. However, partway through, she suddenly stopped and bounced back to Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi. Then, she said, "I almost forgot something important."


    "Did you forget to bring money?" Murong Shi teased.


    Shaking her head, Little Yan sighed and said, "Xiangxiang has started to suspect you two."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped. Then, she hurriedly asked, "How do you know that?"


    "She secretly asked me about it thest time you guys came to visit me. Though, I didn''t tell her anything at the time," Little Yan said. Then, she paused for a moment and switched her gaze between the two people in front of her. "How long are you two going to keep her in the dark?"


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan had chosen to keep her rtionship with Murong Shi a secret from Xu Xiangxiang because she worried that her little sister would identally reveal it to their parents. Now, thoughXu Chuanchuan felt that it was about time she told her little sister the truth.


    No secret could be kept forever. Since Xu Chuanchuan had decided to be together with Murong Shi, they were bound to have toe out of the closet sooner orter. Although Xu Chuanchuan could list down many negatives about Xu Xiangxiang, she believed that her little sister would stand on her side.


    <em>She will, right?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi looked at each other, with the former thinking of an answer and thetter waiting for the former''s answer.


    After staring at each other for a few seconds, Xu Chuanchuan let out a long sigh and said, "Let''s find a suitable time to tell her, then."

 Chapter 76: Pt.2

    Chapter 76: Pt.2


    After staring at each other for a few seconds, Xu Chuanchuan let out a long sigh and said, "Let''s find a suitable time to tell her, then."


    As to when would be a "suitable time," that was something Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t say for certain.


    After returning to the dormitory, Xu Chuanchuan immediately began writing her novel. As a result, she managed toplete her daily writing quota before the sun had even set and could enjoy her night as much as she wanted. And upon hearing about this, Murong Shi invited her out to watch a movie.


    A recently released urbanedy had a strong lineup for its cast. Xu Chuanchuan also kept on seeing advertisements for this movie on Weibo. So, she had Murong Shi buy tickets for this movie.


    However, when the movie started ying, everyone in the cinema was given a huge disappointment. Even after half an hour had gone by, not oneugh had been heard in the cinema. Xu Chuanchuan even started feeling sleepy because of the movie.


    Then, Murong Shi leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "We''d be better off doing something more interesting in the dorm."


    Murong Shi spoke in a soft and seductive voice. She even gave Xu Chuanchuan''s sensitive ear a lick.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart skipped a beat, and she turned to look at Murong Shi with anticipation in her eyes.


    Murong Shi lost her self-control after taking just one look into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes. Immediately, she dragged Xu Chuanchuan out of the cinema.


    The two quickly got into the car and drove back to thepany dormitory in a hurry.


    They had worked up a sweat during their trip outside, so they chose to take a bath first. Of course, the two showered together to save time.


    While in the shower, Murong Shi suddenly inserted a finger into Xu Chuanchuan and started gently scratching about. Murong Shi''s actions caused Xu Chuanchuan to cry out repeatedly, and she even had to desperately hold onto herst trace of reasoning to remind Murong Shi that the floor was slippery.


    "Not here" Xu Chuanchuan pleaded, her arms tightly wrapped around Murong Shi''s neck as her legs had already be as soft as noodles.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s period had just ended, so Murong Shi wanted to help clean her up a little. Finally, after a few more pokes, Murong Shi retracted her hand, lifted one of Xu Chuanchuan''s legs, and sprayed Xu Chuanchuan''s lower half with the showerhead.


    Initially, Murong Shi had only intended on washing away the soap bubbles there. However, to her surprise, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly bit down on her shoulder and started convulsing.


    "..." Murong Shi first looked at the showerhead in her hand. Then, she looked at the woman in her arms. Then, when she saw the look of euphoria on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, she tightened her grip around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and enveloped thetter''s lips with her own. After a moment, their lips separated, and Murong Shi vaguely said, "Why does it seem like you''re bing more and more sensitive?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    After the exercise session, Xu Chuanchuan''s stomach started rumbling, so Murong Shi offered to cook her some noodles.


    "Do you want some ham?" Murong Shi''s voice came from the living room.


    While lying limply on the bed, Xu Chuanchuan feebly responded, "Yes"


    Unsure if the person outside heard her, Xu Chuanchuan forced herself to sit up and grabbed her phone. When she looked at the time, though, she couldn''t help but be surprised. Before she realized it, the time was nearly midnight already.


    Taking a look at her WeChat, Xu Chuanchuan found that she had an unread message.


    Xu Xiangxiang; "A tycoon suddenly visited my channel and gave me a lot of presents today!!! I''m rich!!! I''m so excited!!! [Image]"


    The attached image was the ie Xu Xiangxiang generated from her live stream. After taking a nce, Xu Chuanchuan found that her little sister had indeed made a significant sum of money.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t forget that you''re still a student. Your main task is to study. You should put aside the live streaming matter for now."


    Several secondster


    Xu Xiangxiang: "I got it, I got it. Do you have to say the same thing twice a day? I''m only streaming because I have nothing to do on the weekend. It won''t affect my studies."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think that Xu Xiangxiang would still be awake at this time. After exchanging a few more messages with her little sister, she suddenly recalled the words Little Yan told her today, and she thought to herself, <em>Now''s my chance.</em>


    If they held this conversation through WeChat, both parties could avoid an awkward situation. However, Xu Chuanchuan quickly decided against doing so. Xu Xiangxiang was a person with a lot of words. She was also someone who liked digging into the roots of matters. There would be no end to her messages if they talked about this topic through WeChat.


    After weighing her options, Xu Chuanchuan decided that it would be best to tell her little sister in person. Moreover, not only would she have to do it in person, but she would also have to find a secluded location that had nobody else around.


    After making up her mind, Xu Chuanchuan deleted the words she typed out before and changed them to: "Are you free toe for a visit tomorrow?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "What''s up?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I have something very important to tell you."


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Just say it now. I''m going to stream again tomorrow afternoon, so I don''t have time to visit. Also, it''s been insanely hot outside recently; I don''t want to go outside."


    Seeing that her little sister wasn''t budging, Xu Chuanchuan decided to use her trump card: "I''ll treat you to something good if youe over."


    Xu Xiangxiang: "No thanks, I''m on a diet. I''ve gained some weight recently, so I''m starting to look worse on camera."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    When Murong Shi returned to the room with the cooked noodles sometimeter, she came across Xu Chuanchuan sighing while massaging her temples. After asking about the reason, she couldn''t help but chuckle and said, "You can''t rush these things. Just let it happen naturally."


    "I guess that''s the only way."


    Since Xu Xiangxiang refused to cooperate, Xu Chuanchuan decided to set aside the matter ofing out of the closet for now. In the end, half a month went by with nothing happening, and Xu Chuanchuan gradually forgot about this matter entirely.


    This year''s Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day were not linked together. During the Mid-Autumn Festival''s three-day holiday, Xu Chuanchuan decided to visit her parents. She also refused Murong Shi''s offer to send her. Instead, she met up with Xu Xiangxiang at the bus station and arrived home two hourster.


    The renovation work for their new house waspleted already, but it would still take some time before they could move in. To save up on money, their family did not repaint the previously corroded walls. So, there was still ayer of mold covering the affected walls, and they looked incredibly unpleasant.


    Xu Xiangxiang put on a disgusted expression when she saw the moldy walls of her room. Then, she angrily said, "I''m going upstairs to give them a scolding."


    Holding down her little sister, Xu Chuanchuan said, "They''vepensated us for the damages already, so you best not mess around. Also, after the fightst time, our two houses have already formed a grudge against each other. What if you go upstairs and end up receiving a beating?"


    Xu Xiangxiang was instantly discouraged.


    Due to the narrow space, the two sisters'' room could only fit a bunk bed instead of a double bed. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan had always been the one to sleep on top while Xu Xiangxiang slept on the bottom. However, that arrangement looked unfeasible for today as the mold got worse the closer one got to the ceiling. Out of fear that the ceiling board would break off and hit her, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to squeeze with Xu Xiangxiang.


    Now that more people were in the house, Xu Chuanchuan had to wait in line to use the bathroom. By the time she came out of the bathroom, it was alreadyte at night. And upon returning to her room, she was greeted by the sight of Xu Xiangxiang looking at herself in the mirror.


    "Someone called you just now but hung up after letting the phone ring only once."


    After untying her ponytail, Xu Chuanchuanbed her hair fingers while saying, "It''s probably an advertisement call."


    "I don''t think so." Putting down the handheld mirror, Xu Xiangxiang turned to her elder sister and asked, "Who''s ''Big Jealous Bug?''"


    <em>So it was Murong.</em> With a calm expression, Xu Chuanchuan said, "A colleague."


    "Why would you give your colleague such a nickname?"


    Xu Chuanchuan did not answer. Instead, she picked up her phone and unlocked it, finding that she had indeed missed a call. In addition, probably because Murong Shi assumed that she was with her family and couldn''t pick up the phone, but Murong Shi had also sent her a message through WeChat immediately after the call. Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan opened up her WeChat to take a look at the message.


    Murong Shi sent the message half an hour ago, asking: "What are you up to right now?"


    After sitting down on a chair, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I just came out of the bath. What about you?"


    Murong Shi: "I was waiting for you. I miss you."


    It was only a short message, but it moved Xu Chuanchuan''s heart. Subconsciously smiling, Xu Chuanchuan replied: "I miss you, too. [Kiss]"


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan sent the message, she heard Xu Xiangxiang saying, "Sis, your smile looks wretched."


    Xu Chuanchuan promptly retracted her smile. Then, she red at her little sister and said, "You''re the one who''s wretched."


    "Don''t believe me? I even took a picture! That expression of yours looks so wretched and dumb!"


    After saying so, Xu Xiangxiang forwarded the picture she just took to Xu Chuanchuan via WeChat. When Xu Chuanchuan saw the image, her lips twitched for a moment. Then, she red daggers into Xu Xiangxiang as she demanded, "Delete it!"


    "Toote. I just uploaded it to my Weibo."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t believe Xu Xiangxiang, but she still quickly logged into Weibo and visited Xu Xiangxiang''s page. To her dismay, Xu Xiangxiang had indeed uploaded the previous image onto the inte.


    Naturally, there was no way Xu Chuanchuan would tolerate this, so she promptly lunged on her little sister to snatch thetter''s phone.


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang weaved and dodged her elder sister''s assault. Even after getting pinned down on the bed, she pinched and bit Xu Chuanchuan in retaliation, refusing to surrender her phone no matter what.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan decided to throw herself onto Xu Xiangxiang, crushing her little sister with her weight.


    "Ahhh It hurts Get off me!"


    "Hand over the phone first."


    "Okay, okay, okay! I''ll delete it! I''ll delete it right away!"


    Xu Chuanchuan sat up but still kept Xu Xiangxiang pinned down with her legs.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang quickly tapped away on her phone. A momentter, though, she suddenly smiled and said, "Little Yan saw it already. She even gave it a like."


    Xu Chuanchuan grabbed onto Xu Xiangxiang''s neck and shook her little sister in anger. Then, in a threatening tone, she said, "Hurry it up!"


    "Okay, okay, okay! I deleted it! I deleted it!"


    Only then did Xu Chuanchuan relent. However, when she tried to get off the bed, she found that she had identally kicked one of her slippers underneath the bed, so she bent down to pick it up. While doing so, she suddenly felt her pajamas getting tugged by a huge force.


    "Heavens" Xu Xiangxiang eximed as she stared into the unbuttoned cor of Xu Chuanchuan''s pajamas.


    Initially, Xu Chuanchuan wanted to burst into anger when she thought her little sister was taking liberties with her. However, when she looked down and saw the sight on her chest, her expression instantly changed.


    After smacking Xu Xiangxiang''s hands away, Xu Chuanchuan jumped off the bed in a panic. Then, she took a step back and hurriedly tidied up her clothing.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang still had her mouth agape, only snapping out of her daze after a long time had passed. Then, she pointed at Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Why do you have so many h-h-hickeys???"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned bright red. Then, she held down her embarrassment and said, "You saw wrongly."


    "How can I be mistaken? Those are clearly Uu"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly covered her little sister''s mouth to prevent her from speaking any further. Then, she hurriedly said, "Don''t disturb Mom and Dad."


    However, Xu Xiangxiang continued speaking even with her mouth covered, shock coloring her eyes.


    "I can let you go, but you need to make sure to speak softly."


    Xu Xiangxiang repeatedly nodded.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan gradually loosened her hands.


    After regaining freedom, Xu Xiangxiang didn''t even bother catching her breath before she asked, "You got yourself a boyfriend??? You two even did <em>that </em>already???!!!"


    The first question was still rtively normal, but the second one crossed the line a little. With a blush on her face, Xu Chuanchuan quickly went and locked the door. Then, after returning to the bed and collecting herself, she frankly said, "It''s not a boyfriend. It''s...a girlfriend."


    "What...do you mean?" Xu Xiangxiang frowned, a confused expression appearing on her face.


    <em>It''s now or never. </em>After taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Xiangxiang, I I''m a lez. I don''t like men."

 Chapter 77: Pt.1

    Chapter 77: Pt.1


    The room''s air conditioner had been in service for many years now, and it would make a lot of noise when in use. Their home''s soundproofing was non-existent, to make matters worse. So, it was possible to even hear the footsteps of the people living upstairs.


    However, the air in the room had seemingly be frozen at this moment, and even a needle falling to the ground could be heard.


    After the silence continued for some time, Xu Chuanchuan gulped and asked, "Did you understand what I said?"


    Xu Xiangxiang repeatedly blinked as she idly stared at the person in front of her. "Sis, are you ying a joke on me?"


    <em>I knew she wouldn''t believe me so easily.</em> Having mentally prepared for such a situation beforehand, Xu Chuanchuan continued, "I''m not joking. Xiangxiang, I like women. I am currently dating Murong, and we''ve been together for four months already."


    "What did you say???" Xu Xiangxiang tugged at Xu Chuanchuan''s shirt once more in horror.


    Feeling cold air hitting her exposed chest, Xu Chuanchuan lightly patted her little sister''s hand and said, "Don''t get excited. Let me finish first."


    However, Xu Xiangxiang refused to let go and continued, "Who did you say you were dating???"


    Seeing that Xu Xiangxiang refused to let go, Xu Chuanchuan gave up on trying to make her do so. Then, while maintaining a half-squatting posture, she looked into her little sister''s eyes and said, "Murong. It''s Murong Shi."


    "Big Sis Shishi???"


    "That''s right."


    Xu Xiangxiang gasped, her eyes bing rounded. Then, she eximed, "How is that possible?! You like women, and you''re dating Big Sis Shishi?! You two are actually"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly covered Xu Xiangxiang''s mouth again. Then, she pointed at the fragile door and said, "Shh Softer."


    Xu Xiangxiang still wore a look of disbelief on her face. Her mouth had be so wide that it could practically fit a fist.


    After a while, Xu Chuanchuan gradually loosened her hands and awkwardly said, "That ''Big Jealous Bug'' you saw just now was Murong. When you said I had a wretched smile before, that''s because I was chatting with her."


    Xu Xiangxiang: "..."


    Sitting down on the bed, Xu Chuanchuan straightened her wrinkled shirt and said, "You can ask Little Yan if you don''t believe me. She has always known about me and Murong being together."


    After remaining in a daze for another half a minute, Xu Xiangxiang finally got over her shock and mumbled, "Little Yan?"


    "I''m sorry. I wasn''t trying to hide it from you. I was just...worried you couldn''t ept it. Hey, what''s with that expression of yours? Can you say something?"


    After getting poked by Xu Chuanchuan, Xu Xiangxiang''s body swayed a little. Then, the gaze she used to look at her elder sister changed a little as she said, "So that''s why I keep getting the feeling that you and Big Sis Shishi are a little too close. I didn''t think you two would be Little Yan actually lied to me before."


    Xu Xiangxiang had long since guessed that Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had shared an ambiguous rtionship. Only, she dared not make any bold assumptions. To think that the person closest to her and the big sister that she was most fond of were lesbians This was simply unbelievable.


    A hint of embarrassment appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Then, after saying "sorry" one more time, she held onto Xu Xiangxiang''s hands and asked, "Xiangxiang, you''re my only sister. You''ll support me, right?"


    "..." This revtion came too suddenly, so Xu Xiangxiang failed to process it within a short time. After hesitating for some time, she responded with a question of her own, "When did you two start being together?"


    It would be a very long story if Xu Chuanchuan told everything, so she spent some time sorting out her thoughts and gave her little sister a summary of what had happened.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang absent-mindedly listened to Xu Chuanchuan. Partway through the story, she interrupted, "Big Sis Shishi was the one who chased after you?"


    "This That''s not exactly the case. We just tried dating for some time. After discovering that we were quitepatible with each other, we just naturally got together."


    Xu Xiangxiang nodded in understanding. Then, she suddenly frowned and asked, "Why would Big Sis Shishi take a liking to you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Then, when Xu Xiangxiang inadvertently caught a nce of Xu Chuanchuan''s chest, she said, "Don''t tell me you used your body toAh!"


    Xu Chuanchuan flicked Xu Xiangxiang''s forehead before her little sister could finish her words. Then, with a livid expression, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Stop talking about such nonsense. Just tell me if you''re going to stand on my side or not."


    While holding her forehead, Xu Xiangxiang aggrievedly asked, "What do you mean?"


    Realizing that she might''ve been a little too heavy-handed just now, Xu Chuanchuan pulled Xu Xiangxiang''s hands away and helped massage her little sister''s forehead. Then, she softly said, "If Mom and Dad find out about my rtionship in the future, they''ll definitely be against it. I hope that you can help me when that timees. Even if you can''t provide any help, at least don''t make matters worse, okay?"


    "I" Xu Xiangxiang hesitated to speak. Then, after looking around for a moment, she asked, "Are you nning to be together with Big Sis Shishi for the rest of your life?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes zed over for a second. Then, she said, "That''s too long of a time to talk about. I won''t talk about something vain like that. However, there''s no way for me to change my sexual orientation. Now that I''ve chosen her, there is no backing out of it."


    Xu Xiangxiang: "..."


    That night, the two sisters shared a long and peaceful conversation while huddled on the small wooden bed.


    Xu Chuanchuan had revealed everything about her rtionship with Murong Shi to Xu Xiangxiang, satisfying her little sister''s curiosity. During their conversation, Xu Chuanchuan''s phone had also rung a few times, but she didn''t answer any of them.


    Meanwhile, after seeing that Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t answering her calls, Murong Shi switched to sending WeChat messages. Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan halted her storytelling to reply to Murong Shi. She also told Murong Shi about how Xu Xiangxiang now knew of their rtionship.


    Murong Shi: "What did she say?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "She''s not against it. I''m in the process of brainwashing her right now."


    Murong Shi: "Good luck. If you can''t handle it, leave it to me.''


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What are you nning?"


    Murong Shi: "I''ll tempt her with food. If that doesn''t work, then I''ll bribe her with money."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched slightly when she read Murong Shi''s message, and she couldn''t help but break out into augh. Then, she quickly replied, "Don''t worry. I''ll settle it.''


    When Xu Chuanchuan put her phone down, she heard Xu Xiangxiang mumbling, "I can understand if you like Big Sis Shishi. After all, she''s beautiful, has a good figure, and is rich. Both men and women would drool at her. But you''re so ordinary. Don''t you feel inferior when you''re together with her?"


    "..." Xu Xiangxiang''s words had stabbed Xu Chuanchuan directly in the heart. After a long silence, Xu Chuanchuan sighed and said, "I do feel very inferior, which is why I''m working hard to better myself."


    "Then, you''ll probably need stic surgery."


    Xu Chuanchuan reached out and pinched her little sister. Then, she unhappily asked, "Am I that terrible?"


    Xu Xiangxiang cried out in pain. Then, while evading her elder sister''s hands, she said, "It''s not you who''s bad; it''s because Big Sis Shishi is just too outstanding."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hands froze as she suddenly lost the will to fight. Then, she turned to stare at the wooden board above her with a dazed look on her face.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang yawned and said, "Big Sis Shishi sure has strange tastes."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan opened her mouth a few times but failed to think up a proper retort. In the end, she said in a wavering tone, "Not everyone is as shallow as you. What she likes is my soul."


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang tugged at the cor of Xu Chuanchuan''s pajamas and pointed at the numerous hickeys underneath it, saying, "If she likes your soul, how do you exin these things?"


    Xu Xiangxiang''s unexpected actions caught Xu Chuanchuan off guard. Immediately, warmth spread from her face to her neck and then to her body, her entire person turning as red as a cooked lobster in the blink of an eye.


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly pulled up the nket and covered herself with it. Then, exposing only her head, she angrily said, "I''ll beat you if you pull my shirt again!"


    In response, Xu Xiangxiang fearlessly said, "I won''t help you if you beat me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew tired after messing around again. Before heading to bed, though, she repeated, "You need to keep this a secret for me."


    "What do I get in return?"


    "You can choose whatever present you want for your next birthday."


    "Deal!" Xu Xiangxiang replied, an indescribably sense of joy filled in her voice. Later on, after tossing and turning in bed for a while, she suddenly reached out and hugged Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan stiffened at the physical contact. Then, she coldly asked, "What are you doing?"


    In a righteous tone, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Little Yan gave me a big bear some time ago, and I''ve been hugging it when I''m sleeping every day. Now that the bear isn''t here, you''ll have to be its recement."


    Apart from Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan was unused to being so intimate with anyone else in bed. She found the hug awkward, even if the other party was her little sister. Immediately, she opened up her limbs and struggled free from Xu Xiangxiang''s embrace. Then, she stuffed her pillow into Xu Xiangxiang''s arms and said, "Hold this instead."


    "This one''s too short."


    "Any moreints and you''re sleeping on the floor."


    "On what basis? This is my bed."


    "On the basis that you can''t win against me in a fight."


    "..." Xu Xiangxiang stopped arguing.


    Xu Chuanchuan could sleep even without a pillow, so she turned away from Xu Xiangxiang and closed her eyes. However, she quickly opened her eyes again as she suddenly remembered that she had forgotten to do something. Then, after rummaging in the dark for her phone, she opened up WeChat and sent Murong Shi a message: "I''m sleeping now. Goodnight."


    Murong Shi: "Goodnight."


    Xu Chuanchuan tried her best to put her phone down as gently as possible, but the light of her screen still irritated Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes. Then, Xu Xiangxiang slowly opened her eyes and said, "Actually, there''s something I''m quite confused about."


    "What is it?"


    After a slight pause, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Those hickeys, are they from Big Sis Shishi''s kisses?"


    With a blush on her face, Xu Chuanchuan said in a lowered voice, "What nonsense are you talking about? If not her, who else could it be?"


    "That''s why it''s strange. Big Sis Shishi normally looks like an abstinent person, so how could she be so ferocious in bed?"


    <em>Abstinent? Hah! </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself. However, she could never bring herself to answer such a question. So, pretending to be annoyed, she said, "Hurry up and sleep. Mom''s going to bang on the door again tomorrow if we sleep in."


    "Fine, fine, I''ll sleep, then."


    Finally freed from Xu Xiangxiang''s pestering, Xu Chuanchuan found afortable sleeping position and closed her eyes. However, less than a minuteter


    "How do two women do that kind of thing? Do you use fingers only? Or do you need some tools?" Xu Xiangxiang asked in a sleepy voice. Then, she suddenly snapped her fingers and said, "Oh, right! That vibrator fromst time! Do youAh! Why did you bite me?!"


    After loosening her mouth, Xu Chuanchuan made a spitting sound and viciously warned, "I''ll break your teeth if you continue spouting nonsense!"


    On the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival


    Xu Xiangxiang and Mother Xu had gone downstairs to admire the moon while ying mahjong with the neighbors. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan locked herself in her room and held a video chat with Murong Shi.


    In the video, Murong Shi wore a sexy, ck suspender skirt that revealed her charming corbone and valley on her chest.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her throat tightening when she saw this, and shemented, "You look nice in ck."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi said, "I look even better without anything on."


    <em>This little demoness</em> Xu Chuanchuan cleared her throat and feigned calmness as she said, "Take it off, then."


    Then, the image disyed on Xu Chuanchuan''s screen suddenly shook as Murong Shi started stripping for real. Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan instantly lost her calm as she said, "Stop, stop, stop! You''re going to catch a cold!"


    Murong Shi stopped after letting one of her slings fall off. Then, with amorous feelings in her eyes, she beamed a smile at Xu Chuanchuan.


    The sight before her was too beautiful, and Xu Chuanchuan found herself salivating and secretly taking a few screenshots. Just as she was about to continue their conversation, she suddenly heard knocking soundsing from the door.


    "Sis, are you inside?" Xu Xiangxiang''s voice came through the door.


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said to Murong Shi, "Let''s stop here. My sister is back."


    Xu Chuanchuan disconnected the call without waiting for Murong Shi to reply and went to open the door for Xu Xiangxiang.


    "What did you lock the door for?" Xu Xiangxiang asked, aplicated look on her face.


    "I was having a video call with Murong," Xu Chuanchuan frankly said in a quiet voice.


    Xu Xiangxiang did not ask any further.

 Chapter 77: Pt.2

    Chapter 77: Pt.2


    Three dayster, the two sisters returned to S City by bus.


    When they arrived at the bus station, Murong Shi was already waiting for them there. After picking up the two sisters in her car, Murong Shi hooked an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s neck before thetter could even buckle her seatbelt. Then, she pulled Xu Chuanchuan over and kissed her.


    The two pairs of lips separated after making brief contact.


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little dazed by the kiss. Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang, who sat at the back, couldn''t help but exim, "My god! What did I just see?!"


    After snapping out of her daze, Xu Chuanchuan promptly pushed Murong Shi away.


    In response, Murong Shi calmly smiled and said, "What are you panicking for? Doesn''t Xiangxiang already know about us?"


    "Even so, you can''t just do this in front of her!" Xu Chuanchuanined in anger and embarrassment.


    "It''s fine, it''s fine," Xu Xiangxiang said while eagerly pulling out her phone. Then, she leaned forward and continued, "Why don''t you two do a French kiss as well? I''ll record it."


    "Scram." Xu Chuanchuan swatted her little sister away.


    Although Xu Xiangxiang had yet to express her stance, judging by her reaction, Xu Chuanchuan guessed that her little sister had probably epted the fact that she was dating Murong Shi already. This discovery eased Xu Chuanchuan''s heart considerably. As for their parents, that was something to worry about in the future.


    "No rush."


    Whenever the matter of revealing their rtionship to their parents, Murong Shi would alwaysfort Xu Chuanchuan using these words.


    However, there was indeed no need to rush things. After all, they had been dating for less than half a year.


    I Love Mtang: "It''s finally over after four months! Stockpilers, quickly read it! I will also be writing side stories for the book, but let me rest for a few days first~ Love you all~"


    Murong Shi was currently taking a shower. After turning off herputer, Xu Chuanchuan turned around and threw herself onto the bed. While she was about to rx her mind and body, her phone suddenly vibrated.


    Upon reaching for her phone and unlocking it, she found that she had received a message on QQ.


    Ange: "Congratz on the conclusion."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Thank you, muah~ What about you? When will your current book end?"


    Ange: "I''ve already stopped publishing for a month now. [Sweat]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "This isn''t your style. Why the sudden hiatus?"


    Ange: "Hah, it seems you value sex more than friendship."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What do you mean"


    Ange: "I made a Weibo postst month exining that since this book got signed for physical publication, I need to wait until the physical book is released before I can publish the ending. Did you not see it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "...No."


    Ange: "Did you not notice that ever since you started dating Murong, the two of us rarely ever speak to each other?"


    Upon receiving Ange''s reminder, Xu Chuanchuan quickly scrolled through their conversation history, and what she saw immediately embarrassed her.


    Excluding today''s conversation, the most recent conversation they had dated back to a month ago. Moreover, that was when Xu Chuanchuan discovered Passerby Shi''s secret and went to Ange toin about it.


    To make matters worse, the message preceding this conversation topic came from Ange, and it stated: "That''s enough from you two! I''m not a porn dealer! Find your own research materials!"


    Seeing no replying from Xu Chuanchuan, Ange followed up with another message: "A woman''s love is bigger than the sky. I understand your circumstances."


    Feeling a little guilty, Xu Chuanchuan evaded this sensitive topic and asked Ange about other things: "It''s National Day soon. Since you don''t need to write, what do you n on doing for the week-long holiday?"


    Ange: "Just look at your memory."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What''s wrong with me again"


    Ange: "A few months ago, we agreed that we would be going on vacation together when ''10-1'' arrives.[1] You probably forgot all about it long ago, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had indeed forgotten about the appointment. However, she quickly recalled it after Ange''s reminder. At the time, she had yet to get together with Murong Shi. Meanwhile, Ange had invited her for an IRL meet-up on this year''s National Day because neither of them had to update their novels during this one-week holiday. Xu Chuanchuan also didn''t have to go to work.


    <em>What should I do? Do I abandon Murong to herself and have fun with Ange?</em>


    <em>Or should the three of us go out together? But what if Murong doesn''t want to?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan struggled for a long time before replying: "I''ll ask her about it once she''s done showering."


    Ange: "No need; just spend your time with her. I don''t want to be someone who separates couples. You don''t need to feel responsible, either. I was just casually mentioning it."


    However, while Ange might not care too much about it, Xu Chuanchuan still felt guilty about this situation.


    Ange: "Also, I''m opening a new shop on National Day, so I won''t be able to leave the city."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "A new shop? What do you mean?"


    Ange: "I reimed a shop I previously rented out recently, so I thought of starting a small business myself. I ended up settling for a cake shop. My cousin and his wife will help me operate it while I contribute to funding."


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Ange owned several shops and had been renting them out to other people previously. However, she never thought Ange would start her own business.


    In the one month they stoppedmunicating, so many things happened without her knowledge. For a moment, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel that the two of them had grown distant from each other. She also felt an inexplicable sense of disappointment.


    Afterward, the two of them continued talking about a bunch of nonsense, only ending their conversation after Murong Shi had returned from the bathroom.


    While lying on the bed, Xu Chuanchuan asked Murong Shi about their ns for the National Day holiday. After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Why don''t we pay Fang Qin a visit?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes immediately lit up as she said, "Sure! Is she still in Yunnan right now?"


    "No idea. Let me ask her."


    Murong Shi promptly gave Fang Qin a call. However, the call did not connect even after some time had passed, so Murong Shi switched to sending Fang Qin a message. Unfortunately, Fang Qin did not reply even after a long time had passed.


    As a result, their discussion on where to visit during the National Day holiday had been temporarily shelved.


    On the first day after returning from the Mid-Autumn Festival''s three-day holiday, everyone seemed to be in a holiday mood still. Shortly after working hours began, the various department heads were called upon for an emergency meeting. And because of the absence of their direct superior, everyone in the Engineering Department started chatting with each other.


    When Xu Chuanchuan overheard her colleagues talking about their ns for the National Day holiday, she inadvertently recalled her unfinished discussion with Murong Shi yesterday. As a result, her mind started to wander as well.


    Murong Shi was busy with her meeting, so Xu Chuanchuan didn''t see her lover throughout the day. When it was close to the end of the day, Xu Chuanchuan received a WeChat message from Murong Shi: "The meeting still isn''t over. Go ahead and have dinner without me."


    Xu Chuanchuan replied with an "Okay" before packing her things and returning to the dormitory. However, as she didn''t have much of an appetite because of Murong Shi''s absence, she decided to just wait for Murong Shi in the apartment.


    Murong Shi only returned to the dormitory when it was almost dark outside. When she returned, she wore a frown on her face, and her entire body gave off a feeling of exhaustion. When she found out that Xu Chuanchuan had yet to have dinner, she wrinkled her brows even further and said, "Let''s order delivery today, then."


    While ordering some food through Meituan''s application, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You look upset today."


    Suddenly, Murong Shi imposed half of her weight onto Xu Chuanchuan''s back and said, "I''m sorry, I won''t be able to apany you during National Day. I need to make a trip to Mysia."


    Revealing a look of shock, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Did something happen?"


    While massaging her eyebrows, Murong Shi said, "Something went wrong with our overseas partner. We still don''t know the specifics of the situation, so we''ll have to conduct an on-site investigation."


    This was indeed an unexpected situation. Then, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly asked, "How long will it take?"


    Shaking her head, Murong Shi said, "It depends on the situation."


    "When will you be leaving?"


    "Tomorrow."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew even more surprised.


    The next day, Murong Shi left the dormitory before the sun had even risen. Her movements were light, and Xu Chuanchuan didn''t notice her departure at all. By the time Xu Chuanchuan woke up to her phone''s rm, Murong Shi''s side of the bed had already cooled.


    When Xu Chuanchuan unlocked her phone, she was immediately greeted by a message from Murong Shi: "I''m off."


    Xu Chuanchuan tried calling Murong Shi, but the call did not go through, probably because Murong Shi had already boarded her ne. So, she settled for sending a message instead, saying: "All the best."


    Four people had gone on the business trip: Murong Shi, Murong Mingkun, and their respective assistants. After departing from the country, they went radio silent for three whole days. Xu Chuanchuan panicked over this situation, worried that an ident might have urred.


    When National Day arrived, Xu Chuanchuan finally received a video call request from Murong Shi at noon. As soon as the call connected, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but gape in shock as the person on the other side currently wore a sundress and a pair of sunsses while lying on a swing under a tree.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially wanted to ask Murong Shi about her work progress. However, after seeing this scene, she changed her mind and asked, "Are you there for work or holiday?"


    Murong Shi removed her sunsses and hung them in front of her chest. Then, she said in a helpless tone, "Thispany has been arguing with us and deliberately dying the investigation progress. There''s nothing we can do right now, so I can only treat this as a vacation. I should''ve brought you with me if I knew something like this would happen."


    Puffing up her cheeks, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I don''t have a passport. Is it fun there?"


    Chuckling, Murong Shi replied, "Do you honestly think I''m in the mood to have fun? I''m just making the best of a bad situation. I still have to go have a battle of wits with those people in the afternoon."


    "You''ve suffered."


    "Are you still in bed?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had woken up long ago but couldn''t be bothered to get out of bed. While resting her chin on her pillow, she resentfully muttered, "It''s boring without you here."


    "You can invite Xiangxiang and Little Yan out to y."


    "Forget it. They already went to the water park early in the morning. They invited me as well, but I refused."


    "Why not?"


    "I''m scared of water."


    Murong Shiughed in amusement. Then, she asked, "What will you do for the whole week, then? You hardly have any friends."


    <em>I do have a friend. It''s just that she''s pretty far away, </em>Xu Chuanchuan inwardly retorted. Then, after hesitating for a while, she said, "Actually, I previously made an appointment with Ange"


    Murong Shi''splexion sank.


    TL Notes:


    [1]10-1:


    The correct reference is 10-1, which is October 1st (National Day). For National Day in China, apart from the day itself, the following six days are also designated as a public holiday.

 Chapter 78: Pt.1

    Chapter 78: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan shut her mouth almost immediately after she noticed something wrong with Murong Shi''s expression.


    Murong Shi remained motionless for a long time. The only thing telling Xu Chuanchuan that the call was still connected was the swaying leaves above Murong Shi''s head.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not let out even a squeak in this situation. The atmosphere between them had gotten so silent that she could even hear herself swallowing her saliva.


    After bing frozen for some time, Murong Shi indifferently asked, "What appointment?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes moved from left to right. Then, with a heavy heart, she said, "It''s nothing It''s nothing important."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt at a cover-up only served to arouse Murong Shi''s interest further. Then, Murong Shi narrowed her eyes and asked, "What other secrets are there between the two of you?"


    "Nothing."


    "Then, why did you stop speaking halfway through?"


    "It''s mainly becauseI was afraid you''d be upset."


    Murong Shi''s expression loosened slightly. Then, she revealed a vague smile as she asked, "Am I such a petty person in your eyes?"


    <em>You''re fine at other times, but you be an entirely different person as soon as I bring up Ange, </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself. Then, she let out a dryugh and said, "You''ve always been generous."


    "Say it, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan had nothing to feel guilty about. So, after regaining her bearings, she said, "It''s just an offline meeting Ange and I nned a long time ago."


    "I don''t understand."


    "It''s a meet-up between online friends."


    Murong Shi came to an understanding but did not speak.


    <em>I should never have mentioned this matter </em>Xu Chuanchuan mentally chided herself. Then, with the person on the screen bing motionless once more, an awkward atmosphere surrounding her once more.


    "Do you want to meet her?" Murong Shi suddenly asked.


    "I"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could voice her answer, Murong Shi interrupted her and added, "You''re meeting her when I''m not around. Are you doing this on purpose to anger me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be stunned by Murong Shi''s words.


    If Xu Chuanchuan were to be honest, part of why she had brought up Ange''s matter was unintentional, while the other half was to probe Murong Shi''s reaction. All this time, Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi was very opinionated toward Ange. It might be fine if Murong Shi was simply jealous, but the words Murong Shi just said contained a deeper meaning.


    After collecting herself, Xu Chuanchuan received Murong Shi''s questioning gaze and said, "You don''t trust me."


    "What does this have to do with trust?" Murong Shi asked, frowning.


    Xu Chuanchuan understood that when two people were in a rtionship, they needed to learn how to make concessions and grind out the kinks in their rtionship. Only by doing so could the rtionship be longsting. Because of this understanding, Xu Chuanchuan would always do her best to avoid talking about sensitive topics. This time, however, she no longer wished to avoid it.


    Feeling a little peeved, Xu Chuanchuan took a deep breath and said, "Murong, you are my girlfriend. I have already given half of my life to you. However, apart from you, I also need friends, do you understand that?"


    "I never said I forbid you from having friends."


    "But Ange is my closest friend."


    Sunlight seeped through the gap between the leaves, shining directly onto Murong Shi''s eyes. Unable to bear the ring light, Murong Shi looked down and sat up in the swing. Then, she said, "Let''s not quarrel over the phone."


    "This isn''t a quarrel. This is a necessarymunication," Xu Chuanchuan sternly stated. "Ange and I are innocent, but your repeated suspicions are troubling me."


    "How is it troubling you?"


    "I haven''t even been in contact with her recently out of concern for your feelings."


    After staying silent for a moment, Murong Shi looked into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes and asked, "So, are you ming me for that?"


    Thinking that she was wrongly painting Murong Shi in a bad light, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly corrected, "I''m not ming you. I just think you''re overly sensitive when ites to Ange."


    Murong Shi frowned.


    "Murong, I need you, but I also don''t want to lose this close friend of mine. I hope there won''t be any suspicions and obstacles between you and me."


    Although they weren''t arguing, there was the faint smell of gunpowder hidden in their words. While trying her best to control her volume, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not deliberately meeting up with Ange while you are away. Instead, it is because of an appointment I previously made with her. I don''t want to lose my personal life just because I am in a rtionship. I also don''t want to go back on my promises."


    Murong Shi became as stiff as a statue as she stared at Xu Chuanchuan, and even her eyshes remained motionless.


    Xu Chuanchuan panicked at the long silence. Then, just as she was about to open her mouth, the call suddenly got disconnected.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped. Then, she hurriedly sent another video call request to Murong Shi.


    The busy tone rang for a long time. However, even after the system had notified her that the other party did not answer her call, Xu Chuanchuan did not give up. After repeatedly calling several times, the other party finally answered the call.


    Murong Shi''s face appeared on the screen once more. By now, she had already left the swing. And based on the fact that the image disyed on Xu Chuanchuan''s screen was swaying, Murong Shi was probably walking. After answering the call, Murong Shi said, "I was answering another call just now. I need to go to work now."


    Holding her breath, Xu Chuanchuan tentatively asked, "Are you angry?"


    Murong Shi extended a hand to straighten her slightly ruffled hair. Then, she put on her sunsses and curtly said, "No."


    Xu Chuanchuan intently stared at Murong Shi''s face, paying close attention to every little expression thetter made. In the end, she couldn''t help but doubt Murong Shi''s words.


    "I''m running out of time. Do you have anything else to say?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated to speak. Eventually, she feigned calmness and smiled, saying, "No, go ahead with your work. Make sure not to overwork yourself."


    The video call disconnected once more.


    Their conversation did not end on a happy note whatsoever.


    Xu Chuanchuan dejectedly threw her phone aside and let out a sigh as she copsed onto the bed.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know the exact situation taking ce on the other side, so no matter how much this situation upset her, she shouldn''t have said all those things to Murong Shi at this crucial moment. At this point, Xu Chuanchuan started to regret her previous impulsiveness.


    With her mood in shambles, Xu Chuanchuan had even less motivation to move about. So, sheid on the bed and stared at empty space. Then, after an unknown amount of time had passed, she heard a short beeping from her phone.


    After rummaging through her bed for her phone and unlocking it, Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi had sent her a message. And upon reading the message, Xu Chuanchuan''s spirits perked up immediately.


    Murong Shi: "Make sure to give me a call before you go."


    Although it was only one line of words, Xu Chuanchuan spent a long time reading it before she snapped out of her daze.


    <em>Did Murong justpromise?</em>


    No matter how close two people were, they had no right to control each other''s freedom. Xu Chuanchuan could do whatever she wanted and go wherever she wanted. She did not need to ask for anyone''s opinions. Even so, Murong Shi''s words gave her an inexplicable sense of relief.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ll be back before you know I''m gone! You shoulde back soon, too! Love you~ [Kiss]"


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan never had any intentions of going to Shanghai. However, that had somehow changed after her brief debate with Murong Shi


    Even so, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t going to Shanghai out of spite. She honestly wanted to fulfill her promise to Ange. At the same time, she also wanted to prove to Ange that she wasn''t a person who would forget about her friends after getting into a rtionship.


    After the matter with Murong Shi was dealt with, Xu Chuanchuan quickly shared the good news with Ange.


    Ange did not ask any questions about Xu Chuanchuan''s sudden change of mind. Instead, she just said: "Come! Shanghai wees you!"


    A few days had already gone by since the week-long holiday began, so Xu Chuanchuan needed to make good use of time.


    At nine in the evening, Xu Chuanchuan called Murong Shi once more after thetter had returned to the hotel.


    Compared to before, Murong Shi''s spirit looked much worse. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel her heart aching when she saw the exhaustion on her lover''s face. Then, she asked, "Did things go smoothly?"


    "It''s almost settled. There are just a few more details we need to hash out," Murong Shi said, her voice still sounding rtively energetic.


    After hesitating for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "My flight is tomorrow."


    Murong Shi''s eyebrows moved a little. Then, in a t voice, she asked, "What time does it take off?"


    "Nine in the morning."


    "Remember to set your rm, then. Have you packed your luggage yet?"


    "I did. I don''t really have anything to pack. I''m just bringing a few sets of clothes."


    Murong Shi stayed silent for a moment before asking, "You''ve never traveled far away by yourself before, have you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head and said, "I''m very nerdy, and I normally don''t like to move around."


    "Have you ever been on a ne?"


    "No..."


    Letting out a long sigh, Murong Shi asked, "How am I supposed to be at ease if that''s the case?"


    "I already looked it up on the inte. Riding a ne is simple. If worsees to worst, I''ll just ask the airport staff for help," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling. "Also, Ange says she lives close to the airport, so she''lle to pick me up."


    Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport:


    Although this was Xu Chuanchuan''s first time traveling by ne, the process went smoothly. She walked to the airport''s exit with the other passengers and began checking the passersby''s faces one after another. After some time, though, she couldn''t help but be dumbfounded.


    Before Xu Chuanchuan got on the ne, Ange had already told her what she would be wearing. However, even after searching through the crowd several times, she failed to find anyone wearing a purple skirt.


    Left with no choice, Xu Chuanchuan dragged her suitcase aside, pulled out a phone, and called Ange.


    "Sorry, the number you have dialed is temporarily unavable..."


    <em>Nobody''s answering?</em>


    Just as Xu chuanchuan was about to panic, she felt someone lightly tapping her right shoulder, so she promptly turned around.


    Nobody was there.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan felt someone tapping her left shoulder, so she turned around again. This time, the other party no longer hid, so Xu Chuanchuan got to see that familiar face.


    In a long purple skirt, Ange looked at Xu Chuanchuan with a yful smile as she said, "Hey, we meet again."


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly jumped up in excitement as she said, "I''ve been looking for you!"


    "Sorry, I was in the restroom just now. When I came out and saw you, I decided not to answer your calls," Ange said while waving her phone in front of Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she scrutinized Xu Chuanchuan''s face for a moment before continuing, "You feel rounder than before. It seems you''ve been leading quite a good love life."


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed, too embarrassed to follow up with Ange''s words.


    Then, Ange continued joking, "Did that person at home not say anything about youing here by yourself?"


    We even nearly had an argument over it. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to ruin the mood, so she simply said, "She just nagged me a while before I came here. She''s mainly afraid I''ll get robbed."


    "She''s probably afraid I''ll abduct you," Ange frankly said.


    "..." A hint of awkwardness appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face.


    Fortunately for Xu Chuanchuan, Ange didn''t probe deeper into the matter. Instead, Ange helped her drag her suitcase to the car.


    Ange drove here in her own car. When Xu Chuanchuan saw Ange opening the door to the driver''s seat, she asked in surprise, "Is this your car?"


    "That''s right. Is it strange?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know much about cars, but she could still tell that Ange''s car was an off-road vehicle. The car was massive and had a high chassis. The car also looked very cool and should be a model that men would prefer.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t expect Ange to have such tastes. However, she quickly shook her head and smiled, saying, "I was just a little surprised. Isn''t it tough to drive such a big car?"


    Patting her car, Ange nonchntly said, "It''s okay. You get used to it after driving it for a while."

 Chapter 78: Pt.2

    Chapter 78: Pt.2


    An hourter, Xu Chuanchuan and Ange arrived inside a restaurant and ordered a bunch of dishes native to Shanghai.


    Sighing ruefully, Ange said, "I rarely ever leave home. Only with your visit do I get the opportunity to leave my coffin."


    After saying so, Ange began introducing the characteristics and taste of each dish to Xu Chuanchuan.


    So long as it was something delicious, Xu Chuanchuan wouldn''t be picky with her food. She was already salivating by the time Ange finished her introduction. Though, before starting her meal, she picked up her phone and took a few photos.


    Stopping her chopsticks in mid-air, Ange asked, "Are you posting it on your social media?"


    "No, I''m showing them to her."


    Ange didn''t need to ask to know who that "her" was. When she saw the focus on Xu Chuanchuan''s face as thetter typed away at her phone, she couldn''t help but scoff, "It must be tiring for you to go out. You had to make a report when you got off the ne. You also had to make a report when you were stuck in traffic. Now, you''re even reporting about your dinner. Isn''t that person managing you too strictly?"


    Xu Chuanchuan paused momentarily. Then, she stuck out her tongue and said, "That''s not the case I''m doing this of my own volition."


    Xu Chuanchuan guessed that Murong Shi was probably busy as thetter had not replied to even one of the numerous messages she had sent thus far.


    While Xu Chuanchuan admitted that her actions looked like ttery, she still couldn''t help herself from doing so. After all, they had nearly gotten into a fight just yesterday.


    Meanwhile, after being told off by Ange, Xu Chuanchuan realized that she was too long-winded. Murong Shi shouldn''t even have the time to read her detailed report. So, after sending onest message, Xu Chuanchuan set aside her phone and focused on eating.


    It was a rare chance for the two friends to meet up, so they spent every moment conversing with each other, talking about novels and trivial things in life.


    Partway through the conversation, Ange suddenly changed the topic and said, "By the way, I received your fortune cat and flower basket. Thanks."


    Yesterday was the opening day for Ange''s cake shop. When Xu Chuhuan found out about it, she had asked for the shop''s address and ced an online order for an opening gift.


    Shanghai cuisine veered toward the sweet side, so it wasn''t particrly satisfying for a spicy food lover like Xu Chuanchuan. Even so, everything tasted good on an empty stomach, so she still ate very quickly. After taking a few bites, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How is business?"


    In response, Ange took out her phone and showed Xu Chuanchuan some pictures. The pictures were of the cake shop''s interior. The shop was quite spacious, and the decorations made the establishment look cozy. There were all sorts of cakes and snacks disyed on the shelves, and many customers could be seen in the shop.


    "It''s so prosperous!" Xu Chuanchuan eximed.


    Ange smiled and said, "We were doing a buy one free one promotion. Although there were a lot of customers, we weren''t making any money. Just think of it as earning some brownie points with the locals."


    "Congratz, congratz," Xu Chuanchuan said, cupping her fist.


    "The store''s signature is peach pastry. They''ve been selling like hotcakes. Before you leave, make sure to bring some back for that person to try."


    "Okay," Xu Chuanchuan answered while biting her chopsticks with a happy smile.


    Then, Ange suddenly asked, "Will she refuse to eat them if she finds out theye from me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly choked on Ange''s words. After taking a sip of her soup, she awkwardly smiled and said, "She doesn''t like snacks very much, but she''ll probably eat them if I feed them to her."


    "Yo, showing off your affection again, huh?"


    After the meal, Xu Chuanchuan looked at her suitcase and said, "I haven''t booked a hotel yet."


    Without even thinking, Ange said, "What hotel? Just stay at my house."


    "But your parents..." Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly said.


    "I don''t live with them. Apart from myself, there are only three cats and one dog in my house," Ange said.


    Hence, it was decided that Xu Chuanchuan would be staying over at Ange''s ce.


    As soon as Ange opened the front door, a brown poodle suddenly ran over and began barking at Xu Chuanchuan, scaring thetter to death.


    "Ritian, are you rebelling?!" Ange lifted her leg and pushed the dog aside. Then, she helped her friend open a path as she said, "Don''t be afraid. Ritian is all bark and no bite. It doesn''t dare to bite anyone."


    Just like Ange had said, after pitifully walking in circles a few times, the poodle no longer behaved aggressively against Xu Chuanchuan.


    After breathing out a sigh of relief, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from asking, "Why did you give it such a name?"


    In response, Ange nonchntly said, "Because it can fuck anything apart from the heavens."[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Ange''s house was enormous. It had three bedrooms: one master bedroom, one guest room, and one other guest room that had been converted into a study.


    After looking around, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Won''t you feel lonely living in such a big house?"


    "Which is why I have these four," Ange said as she pointed at the three Ragdollzing on the sofa and the poodle rubbing against her calf.


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt as if she had entered a pet house.


    Afterward, Ange brought Xu Chuanchuan to the guest room and said, "The room is still a mess. The Auntie from the cleaning service will take some time to arrive, so you can sleep in my room first if you want to rest."


    "No need," Xu Chuanchuan said. She had slept on the ne, so she was brimming with energy right now. Then, she pointed outside the room and said, "I want to y with your cats."


    In response, Ange generously said, "Go ahead."


    The Ragdoll breed could be said to be the epitome of beauty among cats, so Xu Chuanchuan eagerly made her way to the living room. However, upon noticing a stranger approaching them, two of the cats promptly fled from the sofa, with one of them hiding under the coffee table and the other lying prone in front of the television.


    As for the one that didn''t run away, itzily stretched its back on the sofa. After exchanging nces with this cat, Xu Chuanchuan approached it and carefully stroked its fur. And upon seeing no resistance from the cat, she went a step further and picked it up into her arms.


    "Do these three have names?" Xu Chuanchuan asked while stroking the cat in her arms.


    "Furry One, Furry Two, and Furry Three. The one you''re holding is Furry Two," Ange said.


    At around 1 PM, the cleaningdy arrived and quickly tidied up the guest room for Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she continued to clean up the other rooms.


    While watching Xu Chuanchuan unpack her suitcase, Ange asked, "Did you bring any toiletries? I could ask the cleaningdy to buy some for you if you forgot."


    "I did," Xu Chuanchuan said as she took out some necessities from her suitcase.


    <em>Knock, knock, knock</em>


    At this time, the cleaningdy knocked on the door and said, "Miss Tang, I''m done with the cleaning. Do you have any other instructions for me?"


    "That''s all, Auntie. Thank you for your hard work."


    Then, the cleaningdy picked up a bag full of trash and said, "In that case, I''ll be heading back for now. I''lle back at night to make dinner for you two."


    Ange nodded.


    "Oh, I almost forgot." Just as the cleaningdy was about to turn away, she suddenly pulled out something from her pocket and said, "I found this when I was cleaning the bathroom just now. I only found one, though. I didn''t find the other one even after searching for some time."


    In response, Ange reached out to receive the object and said, "It''s fine. It doesn''t matter if you can''t find it."


    This time, the cleaningdy had finally left.


    Coincidentally, Xu Chuanchuan hade walking over with her toiletries in hand, so she caught sight of the item in Ange''s handIt was a royal blue earring.


    Then, after taking a look at Ange''s ears, Xu Chuanchuan asked in confusion, "Why did you buy an earring when your ears aren''t even pierced?"


    "This is something I picked up."


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Then, you must be very lucky."


    "How so?"


    "This should be a Cartier. It''s quite expensive."


    "Is that so?" Ange''s expression stiffened for a moment as her mind began to wander.


    Meanwhile, after Xu Chuanchuan inspected the earring in detail for a moment, she stated with even greater confidence, "That''s definitely a Cartier."


    As to why Xu Chuanchuan was so confident in her appraisal, it was because Murong Shi liked the jewelry from Cartier the most. At one time, when Fang Qin was celebrating her birthday, Xu Chuanchuan had apanied Murong Shi in choosing a present for Fang Qin, and Murong Shi had eventually settled on a pair of Cartier earrings. Back then, Murong Shi had even joked about getting Xu Chuanchuan''s ears pierced. However, Xu Chuanchuan had adamantly refused to do so out of her fear of pain.


    Regardless, Xu Chuanchuan still remembered that the earrings Murong Shi gave to Fang Qin were shaped like a fan, just like the one Ange currently held. Even the colors of the two earrings were exactly the same.


    "It''s worth quite a lot of money," Xu Chuanchuan muttered to herself.


    In response, Ange thoughtfully said, "It seems I''ll have to hand this thing over to the police, then."


    "The police will praise you for your selflessness."


    Ange smiled but did notment.


    In the afternoon, Ange decided to take Xu Chuanchuan to her new cake shop for a visit. The shop held many opening promotions, so there were many guests visiting it. While Ange was busy discussing business matters with her cousin, Xu Chuanchuan even helped out as a part-time worker in the shop.


    <em>Kachak</em>


    A noise suddenly entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears. When Xu Chuanchuan turned toward the source, she saw Ange taking a picture of her with her phone, so she cooperatively made a ''V'' gesture.


    After taking a few more pictures, Ange said, "You look quite suitable in our shop''s uniform."


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "In that case, I''ll just continue working here instead of going back."


    In response, Ange hurriedly waved her free hand and said, "I dare not keep you. If that person finds out, she''ll definitelye to snatch you back."


    Ange''s words reminded Xu Chuanchuan of something, so she quickly pulled out her phone and checked her WeChat. Unfortunately, even until now, Murong Shi had yet to reply to any of her messages. However, she didn''t panic, either. Instead, she took several photos of the shop and sent them to Murong Shi. She also sent the photos Ange had taken for her, tagged with the message: "How do I look?"


    When the sky was close to darkening, Murong Shi finally replied to Xu Chuanchuan''s messages.


    At the time, Xu Chuanchuan was discussing with Ange what ces they should visit for tomorrow. When her phone vibrated, Xu Chuanchuan eagerly unlocked it. And upon seeing her actions, Ange even joked, "The overseer is here."


    However, even though Xu Chuanchuan had sent well over a dozen messages during the day, Murong Shi chose to reply to only one of her messages: "If you''re staying at her home, does that mean you''ll be sleeping with her tonight?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little stunned.


    <em>This person''s focus really is hrious, </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought. Then, she replied: "No, what are you talking about? I''ll be sleeping in the guest room by myself."


    When Xu Chuanchuan told Ange about Murong Shi''s question, Ange revealed an intrigued expression. Then, after pondering for a moment, she said, "Isn''t her desire for control a little too strong?"


    "...It''s still okay." Xu Chuanchuan felt that she should try to preserve her lover''s dignity as much as possible, so she opted not to say that Murong Shi had constantly been jealous of Ange.


    Then, Ange wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders and continued, "If you really were to share a bed with me, would she run all the way here and kill me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Ange was only joking. After being rendered speechless for a moment, sheughed and said, "No way."


    However, the next day, Xu Chuanchuan ended up pping herself in the face.


    TL Notes:


    [1]Ritian( - r tin)


    Combined, you get Ritian/Heaven Fucker.

 Chapter 79: Pt.1

    Chapter 79: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan and Ange woke up the next day after a satisfying rest and squeezed into the same bathroom. While washing her face, Ange said, "It''s been a long time since I''ve gone shopping with another person. You came just in time."


    "I''ll shop with you until you''re satisfied," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling.


    After breakfast, Ange drove Xu Chuanchuan to The Bund and said, "This ce is suitable for shopping during the day, though the pubs here get quite lively at night."


    "Pubs?" Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes lit up. "Have you been to any of them before?"


    Shrugging, Ange said, "No, I''ve only passed by them before. I can''t drink since I have to drive."


    Murong Shi rarely ever drank alcohol as well since she was usually the one driving. Though, it wasn''t beneath her to use alcohol as an excuse to satisfy her desires. When Xu Chuanchuan thought about the times when that happened, she couldn''t help herself from chuckling.


    There was arge poster of a concert hung by the shopping center''s entrance. When Xu Chuanchuan saw the poster, she eximed, "There''s a concert!"


    "Do you want to see it?"


    "I''ve never listened to any of her songs before," Xu Chuanchuan said, shaking her head.


    "Me neither," Ange nonchntly said. Then, she pulled Xu Chuanchuan into the shopping center while saying, "It''s too hot. Let''s head inside for the a/c."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have much of a desire for shopping, so she settled for watching Ange try on clothes from the side. Whenever Ange tried on a new set of clothing, she would ask, "How does this look?"


    While holding onto a cup of milk tea, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and said, "It looks good."


    "What about this one?"


    "It''s nice."


    Ange rolled her eyes after constantly receiving varying but simr answers. In the end, she chose a few sets that were to her satisfaction, paid for them, and left the shop.


    "Shopping with you is boring," Angemented, shaking her head while sighing.


    "You''d look good in anything with that body of yours," Xu Chuanchuan defended herself.


    "Is your mouth also always full of praise when you go shopping with her?"


    "She hates troublesome matters, so she usually buys clothes without trying them on."


    Ange chuckled and stopped asking.


    As they passed by a jewelry shop, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly recalled that Murong Shi''s birthday wasing soon. So, she said, "Take a look at this shop with me."


    Ange nodded.


    Murong Shi had a lot of jewelry, and she especially liked collecting various kinds of earrings. However, Xu Chuanchuan quickly found herself dazzled by all the jewelry in the shop. Eventually, she settled with a tinum ne.


    The ne was by no means cheap. However, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even blink when she swiped her card at the cashier. Seeing this, Ange joked, "How generous of you."


    Previously, Xu Chuanchuan had agreed with Murong Shi that neither of them was allowed to give each other expensive gifts. However, Xu Chuanchuan decided to make an exception after considering that this would be the first time she celebrated Murong Shi''s birthday. There should be no harm in buying an expensive gift on such a special asion.


    After exiting the jewelry shop, Ange saw Xu Chuanchuan carefully stuffing the paper bag holding the ne and its box into her shoulder bag. Then, she suddenly asked, "Is it true that...you''re always thinking about your partner when you''re in love?"


    "No?"


    "Why are you constantly sneaking nces at your phone, then?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan blushed a little after having her lie seen through. Then, she hurriedly stuffed her phone into her bag and asked Ange, "Are you thinking of finding someone to date?"


    Angeughed. Then, she said, "No, I was just casually asking."


    Neither of the two friends was willing to continue window-shopping after Xu Chuanchuan had bought Murong Shi''s present. So, Ange suggested, "Let''s conserve some stamina and head back for now. I''ll take you out to the night market to eat something nice tonight."


    Food was much more tempting than window-shopping for Xu Chuanchuan, so she quickly agreed to Ange''s proposal. So, the two of them returned and rested for two hours. Only after the sun had started to set did they leave home again.


    However, they dared not spend too much time outside at night. After wandering the night market for around an hour, they quickly called it a day and returned home.


    Xu Chuanchuan had eaten to her satisfaction. She even kept on burping in the car. When she pulled out her phone to check for any unread messages, she surprisingly found that she had missed a video call request from Murong Shi around half an hour ago.


    After returning to Ange''s home, Xu Chuanchuan immediately rushed to her room and called Murong Shi.


    The other party quickly answered the call.


    When the video call connected, Xu Chuanchuan noticed that the background behind Murong Shi was different from before. So, she hurriedly asked, "Did you change rooms?"


    "You saw through even that?" Murong Shi said, feeling a little surprised. "The hotel we stayed in before was a little far from the job site, so we switched to a closer one."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not doubt Murong Shi''s words as she said, "I''m sorry. I was outside just now and didn''t notice your call."


    Probably because she had removed her makeup, but Murong Shi appeared exhausted. Even so, she spoke in a light tone, "Where did you go at such ate hour?"


    "Ange brought me to a night market. We ate plenty of delicacies."


    An imperceptible change took ce in Murog Shi''s expression. Then, she asked, "What did you eat?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan began listing out what she ate while counting her fingers.


    Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s contented face. "You''ve made me hungry."


    Xu Chuanchuan let out a long sigh. Then, she ruefully said, "It would be great if you were here. We could''ve eaten those things together."


    Murong Shi smiled but did not speak.


    Xu Chuanchuan was lying on the bed while holding her phone. After her hand started feeling sore, she switched to another posture and asked, "How is working along? Is it still not over?"


    Murong Shi pondered for a moment before curtly saying, "Soon."


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan noticed that Murong Shi was already in her pajamas. So, she asked, "Have you showered already?"


    "Mhm."


    "I haven''t showered yet."


    "Go shower first, then."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan kicked her feet andzily said, "I don''t want to. I still want to talk to you."


    In response, Murong Shi''s eyes narrowed into a cunning smile as she said, "You can take your phone into the shower, and we''ll chat while you''re showering."


    "I refuse," Xu Chuanchuan said, blushing. Then, she softly muttered, "Pervert."


    Then, Murong Shi retracted her smile and dejectedly sighed, saying, "It''s been a few days since I''ve touched you. I miss you."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart shuddering. When she came across Murong Shi''s dark eyes, she started feeling an itch in her heart.


    Sensing her body starting to heat up, Xu Chuanchuan quickly turned away. However, she quickly turned back and sent a flirting kiss to the phone, saying, "In that case, quicklye back."


    "What''s the point? You won''t be by my side even if I return."


    Xu Chuanchuan was a little dumbfounded by Murong Shi''s words. Then, she puffed up her cheeks andined, "How can you be jealous all the time!"


    Murong Shi surprisingly did not refute Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she frankly said, "I am indeed jealous. I''m so jealous that I can''t help but wish I could fly to your side right this instant."


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to smile but dared not to. Instead, she carefully consoled, "I''ll fly back as soon as you''re back."


    "What if I return tomorrow?"


    "I''ll go back to apany you, then."


    There was almost no pause between the question and answer. Murong Shi subconsciously smiled in satisfaction at Xu Chuanchuan''s response. Then, she said, "Nevermind. This is a rare trip for you, so enjoy it to the fullest. You cane back after you''re satisfied."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "When did you be so understanding?"


    "Have I been unreasonable in the past?"


    Xu Chuanchuan did not follow up with the question. Instead, she chuckled and diverted the topic, "I bought a present for you."


    "What present?"


    "I''m not telling you yet."


    Murong Shi did not force the issue. Instead, she held up a ss and took a sip of water before saying, "I bought a present for you, too."


    "What is it?" Xu Chuanchuan eagerly asked.


    After seductively wetting her lips, Murong Shi ambiguously said, "A set of sexy underwear."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned into a "" shape. Then, she said, "My body isn''t suited for the sexy route."


    Murong Shi broke intoughter when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s response.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan shifted her attention toward the cup in Murong Shi''s hand and asked, "What are you drinking thiste at night?"


    "It''s just in water."


    Leaning closer to the screen, Xu Chuanchuan narrowed her eyes and asked, "Why is there Chinese written on the cup?"


    Hearing this, Murong Shi quickly turned the ss around, her expression stiffening when she saw the words embossed on the ss.


    "Tianshun Hotel? Strange. Aren''t you in Mysia?"


    "There are many Chinese in Mysia. I don''t know why they provided me with such a ss, but maybe it''s something made in China."


    "Is that so?" Xu Chuanchuan felt a little skeptical, but Murong Shi quickly diverted her attention to some other topic.


    After the two of them conversed for some time, Murong Shi urged Xu Chuanchuan to go shower.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan reluctantly eded and said, "Let''s continue after I''m done showering."


    "Okay," Murong Shi said with a helpless smile.


    There was no bathroom in the guest room. When Xu Chuanchuan left the room with a change of clothes, she saw Ange petting her cats on the living room sofa.


    Out of curiosity, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do hotels in Mysia use Chinese?"


    "I don''t know. Maybe? What''s up?" Ange currently had a facial mask applied. The mask wrinkled as soon as she spoke, so she used her hands to hold it down.


    "It''s nothing. When I was video chatting with Murong just now, I saw the hotel''s name engraved on the cup she used. The name was written in Chinese, so I found it a little strange."


    While pressing down on the corners of her mouth with her hands, Ange slowly said, "The hotel''s name was written in Chinese? Could she be staying in a hotel operated by Chinese?"


    This was something Murong Shi did not mention. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t ask about it, either. So, she shook her head in response to Ange''s question.


    Aftering out of the shower, Xu Chuanchuan sent another video call request to Murong Shi. However, she guessed that Murong Shi must be in a call with someone else as the call did not connect even after a long time.


    While waiting for Murong Shi to call her back, Xu Chuanchuan recalled her previous suspicion. After hesitating for a moment, she clicked on Linda''s WeChat avatar and messaged the other party.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Is Murong together with you?"


    Linda: "No? She flew to Shanghai this morning."

 Chapter 79: Pt.2

    Chapter 79: Pt.2


    <em>Shanghai???</em>


    Linda''s answer was outside of Xu Chuanchuan''s expectations.


    <em>But why would Murong lie to me about being in Mysia still???</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think that her instincts would be correct.


    In reality, Murong Shi''s exnation for the cup should have been wless. Even Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know why she would suddenly doubt the exnation. This situation was just like the time she suspected Passerby Shi to be Murong Shi.


    Sometimeter, Murong Shi took the initiative to send Xu Chuanchuan a video call request. By now, Xu Chuanchuan had already changed into her pajamas. Smiling, Murong Shi asked, "Are you done showering?"


    Instead of responding to Murong Shi''s question, Xu Chuanchuan fiddled with her bangs for a moment before asking, "Were you on the phone with someone just now?"


    "Mhm. I talked a little with my mom."


    Because of some objective reasons, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had been contacting each other through the inte these past few days. So, how could Murong Shi suddenly contact Murong Mingshu through her SIM?


    However, Murong Shi had seemingly failed to realize the w in her words. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan still feigned ignorance as she said, "I just checked the weather. It has been blisteringly hot in Mysia recently, but it seems to have rained over there today, so it should be a little cooler now, right?"


    Murong Shi was unaware that Xu Chuanchuan was probing her. So, she pretended to look outside and responded with an "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan stared at Murong Shi and kept silent.


    After a while, Murong Shi tilted her head and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "You sure know how to put on an act," Xu Chuanchuan said with a sinister smile.


    "What do you mean?" Murong Shi was confused.


    Sitting cross-legged, Xu Chuanchuan put on a stern expression and said, "Comrade Murong, your acting skills are indeed excellent. Unfortunately, you have already been exposed."


    Murong Shi was slightly stunned. A momentter, though, she couldn''t help but chuckle as she asked, "How did you find out? Was it because of that cup?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wagged her forefinger at the screen. Then, she slowly said, "The cup was only one suspicious point. You didn''t pick up my call request just now, so I messaged Linda. She told me that you''d left Mysia early this morning, and she was even the one who helped you buy the ne ticket."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    "Why didn''t you tell me you came to Shanghai?"


    "...I didn''t n on letting you know."


    "Why?"


    Murong Shi pursed her lips.


    Half an hourter


    Xu Chuanchuan arrived at the hotel Murong Shi was staying at. When she exited the taxi and saw a familiar figure standing in front of the hotel entrance, she promptly dashed toward the other party.


    Their reunion didn''t contain any joy or expectation. Instead, Murong Shi frowned as she chided, "I told you not toe. Don''t you know how dangerous it is for a girl toe out alone at night?"


    Xu Chuanchuan withdrew her hands and her thoughts of hugging Murong Shi. Then, she clicked her tongue and said, "You have the cheek to say that? Compared to you, I''m much safer with my appearance."


    Murong Shi angrily smiled. "Does that justify your actions?"


    "Of course."


    Murong Shi had no words to retaliate with, so she quickly dragged Xu Chuanchuan into the elevator. As soon as the elevator doors closed, Murong Shi impatiently embraced Xu Chuanchuan.


    While fending off Murong Shi''s lips, Xu Chuanchuan said, "There''s a camera here!"


    Although Murong Shi stopped trying to escte their intimacy, she did not release Xu Chuanchuan from her arms.


    After arriving back in the room and closing the door, Murong Shi promptly pressed Xu Chuanchuan against the door and kissed her.


    It had been a long time since theyst saw each other in person, so Xu Chuanchuan was simrly in an excited mood. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck and responded to the kiss.


    The two''s breaths gradually became muddled, and Xu Chuanchuan''s clothes quickly got wrinkled. The instant Murong Shi bit her right earlobe, Xu Chuanchuan felt her legs go limp.


    Making good use of this situation, Murong Shi swooped Xu Chuanchuan up in her arms and carried her to the bed.


    Subsequently, the two continued wrestling each other for air for a long time, only separating after both of them were close to suffocating.


    "Did you miss me?" Murong Shi asked, her arms tightly embracing her lover.


    "A lot." Xu Chuanchuan nodded. Then, while caressing Murong Shi''s face, she asked, "Did you lose weight?"


    Murong Shi intertwined her fingers with Xu Chuanchuuan''s fingers and said, "I was a little unused to the local environment when I first arrived there."


    Xu Chuanchuan frowned in distress. "Is the problem solved?"


    "It''s mostly settled. Otherwise, I wouldn''t have dared to leave."


    After some light conversation, Xu Chuanchuan changed the topic and asked, "Don''t tell me you secretly came to Shanghai to monitor me?"


    "No." Giving Xu Chuanchuan a soft kiss on the forehead, Murong Shi said, "I only wanted to look around."


    "Look at what?"


    "Look at this big city. This is also my first time visiting Shanghai."


    This reason was too far-fetched and sounded perfunctory. Needless to say, Xu Chuanchuan did not believe it at the slightest. The next moment, she turned around and put herself above Murong Shi. Then, while looking down at her lover, she smiled and said, "Stop pretending. I know you came here for me."


    Murong Shi smiled but did not answer.


    Taking Murong Shi''s silence as an affirmation, Xu Chuanchuan began drawing circles on top of Murong Shi''s heart and said, "But since you''ve alreadye, why didn''t you tell me?"


    Murong Shi quietly observed Xu Chuanchuan for a moment. Then, she leisurely said, "I reflected on myself that day and felt that my actions were indeed wrong. Who you make friends with is your freedom, and I shouldn''t interfere with it. Since you''ve decided toe to meet your friend, logically, I shouldn''t try to stop you, either."


    "So, you secretly snuck your way here and didn''t let me know about it?"


    "This is your first time traveling to a distantnd. I was just...a little worried."


    This method of caring for someone was unheard of. At the very least, Xu Chuanchuan had never heard of it before today.


    Xu Chuanchuan experiencedplicated feelings after listening to Murong Shi''s recollection. She felt surprised, touched, and a little guilty. If it weren''t for her, Murong Shi wouldn''t have had toe back in such a hurry. Moreover, if Xu Chuanchuan hadn''t overthought things, wouldn''t Murong Shi have to spend the next few days in this hotel alone while she would be out having fun with another person in ignorance?


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that she was a failure as a girlfriend.


    While affectionately caressing Murong Shi''s face, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Comrade Murong, how can you be so cute?"


    A rare blush appeared on Murong Shi''s face. Then, she awkwardly said, "I thought you would say that I''m petty."


    If it were before, Xu Chuanchuan would indeed feel pressured and frustrated by Murong Shi''s actions. However, Xu Chuanchuan''s thought process had changed. Her girlfriend had not only grown jealous because of her but had even traveled across thousands of kilometers just to be closer to her. This proved that her girlfriend cared about her. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be any happier about this situation.


    Xu Chuanchuan removed all of her restraints and held onto Murong Shi''s face. Then, she kissed Murong Shi on the lips before saying, "I love you to death."


    The next moment, Murong Shi flipped Xu Chuanchuan around and reversed their positions.


    Afterward, the two began tussling on the bed, their clothes quickly disappearing and their skin making more and more physical contact. The situation rapidly intensified, and eventually, what should have happened, happened.


    Xu Chuanchuan only woke up at noon the next day. When she woke up and found that nobody was beside her, she momentarily thought she had experienced a wet dreamst night, and she promptly sat up on the bed.


    However, when the nket rolled down and exposed her snowy-white skin, Xu Chuanchuan''s worries disappeared.


    It wasn''t a dream.


    At this moment, her entire body was covered in hickeys, with the ones on her breasts and inner thighs being the most obvious.


    When Xu Chuanchuan thought back to the madnessst night, her face burned up, and she quickly buried her head into her pillow.


    When Murong Shi came out of the bathroom and saw that Xu Chuanchuan was already awake, she warmly smiled and asked, "Did you sleep well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded and said, "I''ve been losing sleep during the time you were away."


    After wiping away the unknown liquid from the corner of Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, Murong Shi said, "Me too."


    Ignoring the fact that she was naked, Xu Chuanchuan reached out and tightly embraced Murong Shi. And as she listened to her lover''s heartbeat, she couldn''t help but smile in happiness.


    Even though they had only been apart for a week, the two couldn''t help but wish they could tie each other to their waists.


    Their hugsted for a long time. Just as Murong Shi was about to move in for a kiss, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly covered Murong Shi''s mouth and said, "I haven''t brushed my teeth yet."


    Murong Shi kissed Xu Chuanchuan''s palm and released the shorter woman. Then, she brought Xu Chuanchuan''s clothes over.


    The clothes were the same ones she worest night. Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to put on her bra, she suddenly recalled something.


    "Crap."


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Ange said she was going to take me out to have fun today" <em>What should I do now?</em>


    Murong Shi extended her arms to Xu Chuanchuan''s back and helped Xu Chuanchuan put on her bra. Then, she calmly said, "Go, then. Don''t stand her up."


    "What about you?"


    "I''ll wait for you in the hotel."


    "How is that okay?!"


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly called Ange.


    Last night, after finding out that Murong Shi had arrived in Shanghai and forcing her to say the hotel''s name, Xu Chuanchuan had promptly set off after briefly informing Ange about the situation. And although she had sent Ange a message just as she was about to reach the hotel, they hadn''t made any further contact afterward.


    Meanwhile, it was currently noon already, which was long past the appointed time for their tour around the city.


    The call quickly connected. Before Xu Chuanchuan could even open her mouth, Ange got ahead of her and said, "Don''t tell me you only woke up now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed in embarrassment. Then, she timidly said, "I''m sorry."


    "What are you saying sorry for?"


    "Are we still going out to y?"


    Ange paused for a moment. Then, she said, "Nevermind. I''m scared that she''lle and kill me."


    The joke they sharedst night had be a reality, so Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should follow up with Ange''s words.


    In the end, though, after the three of them discussed among themselves, they still decided to meet up.


    Ange had chosen a stylish cafe as the location of their meet-up. She had also deliberately chosen an inconspicuous seat in the shop. Though only after she had finished a cup of coffee did Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi arrive.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan had turned bright red because of the ring sun outside. Upon arriving, she quickly said, "Sorry, we''re not familiar with Shanghai, so it took us some time to find this ce."


    "It''s fine," Ange said. Sensing that a certain someone''s eyes had been locked onto her since they entered the shop, Ange awkwardly turned toward Murong Shi and greeted, "Hello."


    "Hello," Murong Shi calmly responded.


    Noticing the strange attitudes of Ange and Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan quickly stepped forward to smooth things over. "I checked the weather forecast just now, and it seems the temperature today might reach 40 degrees Celsius. That''s so terrible."


    Making use of Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Ange said, "It''s easy to get heatstroke in such hot weather, so it''s best if we cancel our outing ns for today."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan was caught off guard by this situation.


    Then, Ange pointed at the crowd of pedestrians outside the shop and said, "Shanghai has many interesting ces to visit, but it gets especially crowded during the holidays. I dare say that everywhere we visit will be packed. I''m sure you two wouldn''t want to join such a crowd in such hot weather, right?"


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi briefly exchanged looks with each other.


    "If you still insist on going out, I can take you two to the Oriental Pearl Tower tonight."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be confused by this situation. After all, this wasn''t what Ange had said yesterday. The two of them had already discussed their travel route for today. Yet, Ange had suddenly suggested modifying it.


    <em>Is it because of Murong''s sudden participation?</em>


    At this time, the waiter just so happened to have walked over and interrupted their conversation.


    While Murong Shimunicated with the waiter, Xu Chuanchuan looked toward Ange and saw her friend signaling her with her eyes. Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan failed to figure out what Ange was trying to express.


    After the waiter left, Xu Chuanchuan worried that an awkward silence would ensue. However, to her surprise, Murong Shi had taken the initiative to strike up a conversation with Ange.


    The two mainly talked about Ange''s cake shop. Ange would answer whatever questions Murong Shi posed, and the atmosphere between them seemed rtively good.


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief at this sight. Then, she said, "I''m going to the restroom. Any of you want to go with me?"


    Ange said she wasn''t going.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially thought Murong Shi would apany her, but Murong Shi had unexpectedly said, "You go ahead."


    Left with no better choice, Xu Chuanchuan went to the restroom by herself.


    Murong Shi watched Xu Chuanchuan leave, only retracting her gaze after she could no longer see her lover''s back. Then, she looked toward Ange, who was tearing apart a piece of tissue paper out of boredom, and said, "Let''s talk."


    TL Notes:


    [1]So, why would Murong Shi suddenly contact Murong Mingshu through her SIM?:


    The reason why Xu Chuanchuan assumes that Murong Shi is calling someone through her phone line is because of WeChat''s call system.


    If you(A) are calling a friend(B), and this friend(B) happens to be in a WeChat call with someone else(C), then the call won''t connect at all, and WeChat''s system will just notify you that your friend(B) is in a call with someone else.


    However, if you(A) call your friend(B), and your friend(B) is holding a call with someone else(C) through their SIM, your WeChat call request will go through, and you will hear a busy tone. However, your friend(B) will not receive any notifications of the call request until they are done with their phone call.


    So, since Xu Chuanchuan heard a busy tone when she initially tried calling Murong Shi, and Murong Shi subsequently admitted that she had been in a call with Murong Mingshu (which disproves the possibility that Murong Shi had been away from her phone), this means that Murong Shi had called Murong Mingshu using her SIM.

 Chapter 80: Pt.1

    Chapter 80: Pt.1


    Ange was pretending to look at the scenery outside when Murong Shi spoke to her. Upon hearing Murong Shi''s words, she turned her attention toward the other party and warily asked, "Talk about what?"


    Pressed for time, Murong Shi curtly said, "About Chuanchuan."


    "Chuanchuan? What about her?" Ange asked while looking toward the restroom''s direction.


    Ange''s reaction appeared a little exaggerated, and Murong Shi couldn''t help but wonder if the other party was putting on an act. However, she maintained a calm expression as she said, "She has repeatedly been telling me that you are her closest friend."


    "Is that so? She''s never told this to me before."


    "You two have known each other since the early days of her writing career. You''ve even been of significant help to her, so she is very grateful toward you."


    Ange couldn''t tell what Murong Shi was trying to do, so she feigned ignorance and continued wasting time with Murong Shi. "Have I helped her before? I don''t remember."


    "Chuanchuan can be quite slow sometimes, so she must''ve given you a lot of trouble, right?" Murong Shi continued speaking in a leisurely tone, her voice void of any emotions.


    Ange looked upward and pondered for a moment. Then, she said, "It''s okay. We just provide encouragement and support to each other."


    "I know you like her as well," Murong Shi indifferently said.


    Raising an eyebrow, Ange said, "That''s for sure. She is kind and innocent. There must be many people who like her."


    "Many? Who else is there?"


    "Her readers."


    "..."


    "You, too. Don''t you like her?"


    Murong Shi was momentarily taken aback when Ange suddenly turned the tables on her. However, she quickly chuckled and said, "I like her. I like her a lot."


    The two of them were unfamiliar with each other, so their conversation was nothing but awkward. As the second cup of coffee she ordered had yet to arrive, Ange started getting bored, so her eyes began to wander.


    Then, Murong Shi narrowed her eyes and said, "You should understand what I mean."


    While squeezing the tissue paper she previously shredded into a ball, Ange said, "I don''t quite understand. Please borate."


    "And here I thought you were a straightforward person. It seems I have misjudged you," Murong Shi mockingly said.


    In response, Angezily leaned back and said, "Then, you might be short-sighted. You should find a time to go get your eyes checked."


    Although Ange''s words didn''t contain any feelings of aggression, her uncooperative attitude still irked Murong Shi somewhat. Even so, Murong Shi still maintained an amiable expression as she said, "She is too trusting in others. You might be able to fool her, but you can''t fool me."


    Ange had initially thought of refuting Murong Shi. However, she failed to think up a proper rebuttal after opening her mouth, so she decided not to speak at all. Then, she retracted the emotions on her face and began tapping her finger against the table in an irregr pattern, looking like she was pondering something.


    "I was originally against hering to visit you, but she insisted on doing so. She even wanted me to believe in her."


    "But you started questioning me as soon as she left the table," Ange indifferently pointed out."


    "Because I don''t trust you," Murong Shi frankly said.


    Ange was a little surprised by Murong Shi''s answer. Then, she snickered and said, "You''re funny. Don''t you find it meaningless to keep on treating me as an imaginary love rival?"


    "I''m sure you know best whether it is real or imaginary," Murong Shi calmly said, her eyes still locked on Ange.


    Ange shut her mouth once more.


    The two began silently staring at each other once more, shing with each other in secret. Like so, seconds passed by quickly.


    Eventually, Murong Shi realized that she was running out of time, so she broke the silence and said, "The purpose of my visit this time isn''t to negotiate with you, neither is it to start a fight. On the contrary, I came here to thank you."


    For a moment, Ange couldn''t help but wonder if her ears were broken or the person seated across her had taken the wrong medicine this morning. Unable to keep up with Murong Shi''s rhythm, Ange asked in confusion, "Thank me for what?"


    "Thank you for notying a hand on her throughout these years. It is only because of your abstinence that I got the opportunity to make her my girlfriend."


    This was a tant provocation.


    "..." Ange suddenly had the urge to punch Murong Shi. While doing her best to maintain her cool, she put on an artificial smile and said, "I think it''s a little too soon for you to celebrate."


    Murong Shi frowned, her attitude cooling down significantly. "What do you mean?"


    "Nothing. Experience it yourself," Ange said, deliberately making her words sound vague.


    "..."


    "..."


    Just as the atmosphere around the table was about to reach a freezing point, Murong Shi suddenly smiled and said, "Sorry, but I came here in quite a hurry, so I didn''t bring you a gift. I''ll have my assistant procure some local specialties from Mysia when she returns and send them to you."


    <em>Why would I want your things? Are we even close to each other?</em> Ange thought to herself.


    Before Ange could discern the sincerity in Murong Shi''s smile, she noticed a familiar figure through the corner of her eyes. When she realized that Xu Chuanchuan had returned from the restroom, she instantly understood the reason for Murong Shi''s actions. <em>What a crafty fox. She sure knows how to hide her tail quickly.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had been away from the table for around three minutes. When she sat back in her seat, she innocently asked, "What were you two talking about so happily?"


    <em>Happy, my ass, </em>Ange thought. Regardless, she sighed in relief after seeing Xu Chuanchuan return. Then, she said, "Your suitcase is still at my house. Don''t forget to go collect itter."


    "This" A troubled look appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s face as she turned to look at the person beside her.


    Although Murong Shi''s expression was dull, her tone was gentle as she said, "Don''t concern yourself with me. You two should still have a lot of things to talk about, so you can continue staying at her ce."


    Xu Chuanchuan never thought Murong Shi would say such words, so she was momentarily at a loss on what to say.


    However, Ange inwardly scoffed at Murong Shi''s words and cursed, Hypocrite.


    Although this was an awkward problem, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to make a decision. After much deliberation, she eventually chose to move out of Ange''s ce. After all, Murong Shi had traveled thousands of kilometers just to meet her. How could she let Murong Shi stay in a hotel all by herself?


    Sometimeter, the trio left the coffee shop. Before they got into Ange''s car, Ange said, "Apart from myself, there are only three cats and a dog living in my house. If you don''t mind it, you can move in as well."


    Ange''s words were naturally directed toward Murong Shi.


    In response, Murong Shi said, "Thanks for the offer, but that won''t be necessary. I don''t particrly like furry animals."


    Ange had long since expected Murong Shi to refuse her offer, so she simply shrugged.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel that the atmosphere between Ange and Murong Shi was strange. <em>But everything was going well before I went to the restroom. What exactly did I miss?</em>


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan secretly dragged Ange aside and said, "I''m sorry. I''m worried that she''ll get lonely if I leave her alone at the hotel."


    "Absence makes the heart grow fonder. I can understand it," Ange said,ughing.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t bring a lot of things with her. While she was busy packing up in the guest room, the two other people were having a "small talk" in the living room.


    Upon noticing a stranger in the house, Ritian, who had just woken up from an afternoon nap, charged up to Murong Shi and began barking fiercely. Seeing this, Ange pushed it aside with her feet. Then, she looked at a certain someone''s calm expression and asked, "Are you not afraid of dogs?"


    In response, Murong Shi calmly said, "It won''t bite, so what''s there to be afraid of?"


    "Who said it doesn''t bite?" Ange said, smirking as she nced at her growling poodle.


    "Oh, then you better look after it," Murong Shi said before walking straight past Ritian and going to check up on Xu Chuanchuan.


    Making good on her promise, Ange brought Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi to the Oriental Pearl Tower when night arrived. As an awkward atmosphere constantly surrounded the trio, they quickly left the ce after taking a few photos.


    The dinner they previously had was a hotel buffet. The taste was subpar, so Xu Chuanchuan hardly ate anything. By now, her stomach had already started grumbling, so they decided to stop by a restaurant for some supper.


    Ange sat in front as the driver, while Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi sat at the back.


    With nothing better to do in the car, Xu Chuanchuan took out her phone to post the pictures they just took on her Wechat Moments.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi reminded, "You''ll get carsick if you use your phone now."


    "Help me post, then," Xu Chuanchuan said as she stuffed her phone into Murong Shi''s hands. Then, she leaned her head against Murong Shi''s shoulder.


    Murong Shi chose nine satisfactory photos out of the ones they previously took. After adding some filters and writing somementary text, she created the post.


    "I''m done."


    "Already?" Xu Chuanchuan sat upright. Upon receiving her phone back, she quickly looked through the post Murong Shi made. Then, when she saw thementary text, she felt her heart stopping momentarily.


    What a beautiful night with you.


    To make matters worse, the pictures Murong Shi uploaded were mostly group photos of the two of them. Some of these pictures also looked quite intimate. What would she do if others saw this post?


    However, Murong Shi quickly saw through Xu Chuanchuan''s worries and said, "It''s fine. Only I can see them."


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly noticed a certain icon located in a corner of the post. Upon seeing this icon, she quickly rxed and stored her phone away.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi took out her own phone, entered her WeChat Moments, and located the post she made using Xu Chuanchuan''s phone. Then, she liked the post andmented with a heart emoji.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt warmth spread in her heart when she noticed Murong Shi''s actions. Though, contrary to what she felt, she said, "Do you have nothing better to do?"


    Murong Shi smiled but did notment. Then, she subconsciously swiped her finger across her phone''s screen and refreshed the page. Unexpectedly, a new post appeared in her WeChat Moments.


    Fang Qin: "What a bleak night. [Image]"


    Murong Shi gave Fang Qin''s post a like without much thought. However, just as she was about to close her WeChat, she paused and muttered, "Strange. Why is she in Shanghai as well?"


    "Who?"


    Murong Shi showed her phone''s screen to Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked at where Murong Shi pointed and noticed the location tagged to Fang Qin''s post, she widened her eyes in surprise. "Isn''t she supposed to be in Yunnan?"


    Murong Shi was simrly confused, so she promptly gave Fang Qin a call. Fortunately, the other party answered the call after just one beep.


    "Are you in Shanghai right now?" Murong Shi asked, getting straight to the point.


    "That''s right. What''s up?" Fang Qin said.


    "What a coincidence. Chuanchuan and I are here, too," Murong Shi said, smiling.


    Ten minutester, the trio arrived at a coffee shop, found a window seat, and sat down.


    Then, Ange asked, "Does your friend know how to get here?"


    "I sent her the GPS coordinates. She lives in a nearby hotel, so she should be able to find this ce," Xu Chuanchuan said.


    However, despite her words, Xu Chuanchuan still didn''t feel assured. Immediately, she opened up her WeChat and sent Fang Qin a voice message, "Fang Qin, just tell the driver the shop''s name if you''re taking a taxi. Also, what do you want to eat? We''ll order it for you."


    After Xu Chuanchuan sent her message, she heard Ange asking, "Her surname is Fang?"


    "That''s right."


    "What did you call her just now?"


    "Fang Qin."


    Ange''s throat tightened momentarily. Then, she asked, "Which Qin?"


    "The one with a water and a heart."


    Ange''s heart thumped, and she immediately became mute.


    TL Notes:

 Chapter 80: Pt.2

    Chapter 80: Pt.2


    "The one with a water and a heart."


    Ange''s heart thumped, and she immediately became mute.


    <em>There can''t be such a coincidence, right?</em> Ange thought.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "I-It''s nothing" Ange nervously took a sip of water. Then, she said, "It''s quite a good name."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not suspect Ange''s words. Instead, she said, "She''s a single beauty, just like you."


    Ange did not follow up with Xu Chuanchuan''s words. After letting out a dry cough, she said, "I''m going to the restroom."


    There wasn''t much traffic at night, so Fang Qin quickly arrived at the restaurant. Currently, her hair looked slightly moist, and her body also emanated a pleasant fragrance. It was evident that she had juste out of the shower recently.


    Upon seeing Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi, Fang Qin reacted as she had just seen her rtives as she hugged both of them simultaneously. Then, she asked, "What are you two doing here?"


    "Are you the only one who can visit Shanghai?" Murong Shi grumpily said.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan exined, "A friend of mine lives in Shanghai, so we came to visit her."


    "A university ssmate?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was reluctant to reveal Ange''s identity without receiving thetter''s permission. However, just as she was troubled about what kind of excuse she should give, she suddenly thought of something. Then, she leaned into Fang Qin''s ear and said, "Do you remember the girlfriend we said we wanted to introduce you tost time? It''s her."


    Fang Qin''s eyes glowed at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. "For real? Where is she?"


    "She went to the restroom," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling. Then, taking a look at the time, she muttered in confusion, "Why is she taking so long?"


    "Give her a call," Murong Shi said.


    Thus, Xu Chuanchuan took out her phone. However, before she could locate Ange''s number, she heard Murong Shi speaking up once more, "Nevermind, she''s back."


    Ange was walking behind a waiter carrying a tray. She walked very slowly, and she had covered half of her face with her hair. After arriving back at the table, she looked up slightly and said, "Sorry, there was a long queue."


    "It''s fine, it''s fine," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she eagerly introduced, "This person here is Fang Qin, Murong''s childhood friend. This person here is my friend, Tang Xin."


    "Hello," Fang Qin greeted. From her angle, she could only see Ange''s profile.


    "...Hello."


    When Ange turned around to face her, Fang Qin''s smile was instantly reced by a look of surprise, and she subconsciously blurted out, "It''s you?"


    Ange: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly switched her gaze between Ange and Fang Qin. Then, she hurriedly asked, "You two know each other?"


    Fang Qin quickly retracted her surprise, though she couldn''t help but sneak a few nces at Ange. However, after failing to see any reactions, she calmed down and said, "We met once before, but I don''t know her name."


    "Tang Xin," Xu Chuanchuan repeated. "It''s the ''xin'' in ''happy.''"


    Fang Qin repeated this name in her mind andmitted it to memory. Then, after adjusting her mood, she smiled and extended a hand to Ange. "Hello, Miss Tang."


    Ange was no stranger to the slender and textured hand in front of her. After hesitating for a moment, she held onto Fang Qin''s hand and shook it.


    <em>Dammit, even the warmth is familiar.</em>


    After the handshake, Ange quickly withdrew her hand as if zapped by lightning. Then, she insecurely sat back in her seat.


    Neither Xu Chuanchuan nor Murong Shi noticed the peculiarity between the two people seated across them. The waiter had also brought the food over at this time, and Xu Chuanchuan, famished as she was, picked up her chopsticks and began eating immediately.


    Murong Shi wasn''t particrly hungry, so she stopped after taking a few bites. Then, she asked Fang Qin, "I sent you a WeChat message a few days ago. Why didn''t you reply to it?"


    Fang Qin punctured a soup dumpling with her chopsticks. Then, she casually said, "I didn''t see it. Maybe I didn''t have any signal."


    "Did you not have fun in Yunnan?"


    "It''s okay. It''s just a little sunny," Fang Qin said before taking a sip of the soup that had leaked out of the dumpling.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan asked in a lowered voice, "Did you have any romantic encounters in Lijiang?"


    <em>Clink.</em>


    Fang Qin''s spoon struck the porcin bowl. Then, her eyes flickered as she said, "No."


    "Is that why you came to Shanghai?" Murong Shi teased.


    "I found out that a singer I like was holding a concert here a few days ago, so I flew over," Fang Qin said, sneaking a nce at the person eating with their head lowered beside her. Afraid that her friends would pry too deeply, she changed the topic and asked, "Murong, didn''t you go to Mysia for a business trip? Why did youe to Shanghai as well?"


    "She came here to apany me," Xu Chuanchuan answered on Murong Shi''s behalf.


    Throughout the conversation, Ange felt like she was seated beside a ticking time bomb as a certain someone''s voice constantly harassed her eardrums. Her heart in a mess, she asked, "When do you two n on returning?"


    Xu Chuanchuan looked toward Murong Shi upon hearing Ange''s question.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi leisurely turned to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "You decide yourself."


    "Then, let''s stay for two more days?"


    "Up to you," Murong Shi said with a rxed expression. Then, she pointed at Fang Qin and asked, "What about you?"


    "Me?" Fang Qin currently had her mind upied with her thoughts, so it took her some time to process Murong Shi''s question. "I''ll see how things go."


    Done with her meal, Ange set down her chopsticks and interrupted, "Sorry, but I''m going to the restroom."


    "But you just went," Xu Chuanchuan said, puzzled.


    Showing her palm to Xu Chuanchuan, Ange said, "I identally spilled some soup. You guys take your time." Then, Ange left without asking if anyone wanted to visit the restroom with her.


    Fang Qin stopped talking as she looked at Ange''s departing back.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi intently stared at the person seated across her. She kept on getting the feeling that Fang Qin was behaving strangely tonight. In the end, she couldn''t help herself from asking, "How did you two get acquainted?"


    Fang Qin retracted her gaze but not her heart. Then, she absent-mindedly said, "We met at the side of a street. I stopped her to ask for directions."


    "You managed to remember what she looks like just from that?" Murong Shi dubiously asked.


    "We made some small talk afterward."


    Murong Shi nced at the miserable soup dumpling that Fang Qin had poked numerous holes into. Although she still felt suspicious about Fang Qin''s words, she did not pry any deeper into the matter.


    Ange returned much more quickly this time. However, after returning to her seat, she adamantly refused to look at the person seated beside her. Instead, she asked Xu Chuanchuan if there was anywhere in particr that she wished to visit.


    "What about Disney? I''ve never been there before," Xu Chuanchuan eagerly asked.


    "Forget about Disney. I went there by myself a few days ago. The ce was so crowded that I didn''t even manage to buy a ticket after waiting in line the entire morning," Fang Qin said before Ange could speak up. Then, she pointed her chin toward Murong Shi and continued, "If even I don''t have the patience to wait, don''t even mention this person here."


    Meanwhile, Ange seconded Fang Qin''s words. "That''s true. It''s difficult to get tickets into Disney even during normal days, let alone on National Day."


    "Nevermind, then," Xu Chuanchuan said, a hint of disappointment in her tone. Then, she quickly put on a smile and said, "In that case, just take us around the city."


    "Actually..." Clearing her throat, Ange said, "I''m not a native of Shanghai. I rarely go out as well, so I don''t know which ces I should take you to visit. I''ll have to look it up on the inte first."


    Finally seeing an opportunity to strike up a conversation with the person beside her, Fang Qin asked, "You''re not from Shanghai?"


    Ange nced at Fang Qin when she heard thetter''s question. Then, she quickly turned her head away and said, "I just went to university here and stayed after graduation."


    Following the flow, Fang Qin asked, "What work do you do, Miss Tang?"


    "I''m currently unemployed," Ange lied without batting an eyelid.


    Xui Chuanchuan nearly burst intoughter but chose not to expose her friend''s lie.


    After failing to get a friendly response from the person beside her, Fang Qin tacitly gave up and changed the topic. "I''ve been touring around Shanghai the past few days and found quite a few interesting ces. I can take you guys there."


    While biting on her spoon, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and said, "Okay."


    What should''ve been a simple midnight snack ended upsting for more than an hour because of their conversations. If not for Xu Chuanchuan worrying that it would be dangerous for Ange to go home by herselfte at night, she would''ve preferred for them to stay together for a little while longer.


    Fang Qin and Ange walked at the back of the group, neither of them able to see each other''s faces. Eventually, Fang Qin said, "We seem to be heading the same way. Miss Tang, do you mind dropping me off?"


    Putting on aplicated expression, Ange faintly replied with an "Mhm."


    Before parting ways, Xu Chuanchuan said to Ange, "Drive safely."


    Ange nodded.


    "See you tomorrow."


    "See you tomorrow."


    After seeing Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi getting onto the taxi, Ange turned around. When she saw Fang Qin looking at her, her expression changed slightly, and she dryly said, "Let''s go."


    The two got into the car one after another. As soon as Fang Qin settled in her seat, she asked, "That day... Did I dirty your car that day?"


    "No."


    The car gradually began to move and merged with the traffic under the illumination of the staggered street lights.


    Although Ange looked calm on the surface, turbulent waves raged in her heart. She never thought that the friend Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi spoke of would be Fang Qin, the drunkard she had picked up some days ago. Now, this same drunkard was even sitting in her car again. Though, this time, Fang Qin was sober.


    The inside of the car was very quiet, so quiet that it made its upants grow flustered. Unable to stand the silence any longer, Ange turned on the radio.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin also felt as if she was sitting on pins and needles. After taking a deep breath, she said, "Thank you for giving me a ride."


    "You''re wee. It''s on the way, in any case."


    "I''m talking about that night.''


    Ange''s right eyelid twitched a little, and she subconsciously tightened her grip over the steering wheel.


    "I cked out that night. When I woke up the next day, I saw that you were no longer around. You didn''t leave behind any contact information, either."


    Ange wanted to smile but found that the corners of her mouth had stiffened. So, she gave up and stiffly said, "Isn''t that unnecessary?"


    Fang Qin snuck a nce at Ange through the rearview mirror. Then, she said in a soft voice, "Indeed, it was unnecessary."


    Afterward, the two shut their mouths.


    The drivested around ten minutes. After parking the car by the roadside, Ange asked, "It''s this ce, right?"


    When Fang Qin looked at the hotel''s sign outside, she found that she had indeed arrived at the hotel she was staying at. However, ever since they had gotten into the car, Ange had never once asked her which hotel she stayed at.


    <em>So, she still remembers. </em>Fang Qin was in a daze for a moment. Then, she started unbuckling her seatbelt while saying, "Mhm, it''s here."


    Ange didn''t remain idle during this time as she pulled out something from her bag and handed it to Fang Qin.


    Fang Qin epted the item, only to be momentarily stunned when she saw that it was the earring she lost. Then, she said, "I''ve been looking for this. Where did you find it?"


    Ange awkwardly turned her head away and said, "I picked it up in the car."

 Chapter 81: Pt.1

    Chapter 81: Pt.1


    Even after Fang Qin had left, the faint smell of her shampoo still lingered in the car. To rid herself of the smell as soon as possible, Ange opened the car window.


    However, when the hot wind outside blew into the car and struck her face, the difort she felt made her close the window immediately.


    Pulling over by the roadside, Ange ruffled through her shoulder bag in irritation and pulled out a bottle of perfume. Then, she began randomly spraying the perfume around the car.


    The strong perfume quickly covered up the unfamiliar scent. When Ange could no longer smell the scent of Fang Qin''s shampoo, she sighed in relief. However, as she had sprayed too much perfume, the fragrant scent irritated her nose, and she ended up sneezing.


    Almost at the same time, a certain someone''s voice vividly echoed in her mind. "You smell nice..."


    You smell nice...


    You smell nice...


    You smell nice


    That intoxicating voice lingered in her mind for a long time.


    Suddenly, Ange felt her body heating up and her limbs going soft. Even when the perfume bottle in her hand fell to the floor, she did not look at it or pick it up.


    When Ange shut her eyes, the memory of that night poured in like a tide, annihting her sanity.


    It was something that had happened five days ago, which was the day before the opening of Ange''s new shop.


    That day, Ange had visited her cousin''s home to discuss the final details about the shop''s opening. By the time she left her cousin''s house, it was alreadyte at night.


    While Ange waited for a red light at a certain intersection, a figure suddenly staggered over and knocked on her car''s window.


    The night was tranquil, and there were almost no cars and pedestrians on the street. Hence, the sudden appearance of a person by her window gave Ange the scare of her life.


    Upon turning to the window, Ange found a drunk woman with messy hair erratically knocking on the window, the woman''s mouth making random mutterings.


    Less than half of the 90-second red light had gone by. Unable to stand incessant knocks, Ange rolled down the car window.


    The smell of alcohol drifted into the car along with a gentle breeze. Ange frowned at the smell, her body moving further away from the window to avoid making any physical contact with the drunk woman.


    Meanwhile, seeing the window disappearing, the drunkard said, "Driver, I...I''m getting on, so pleaseopen the door."


    <em>Driver??? Does my jeep look like a taxi to you???</em>


    Ange didn''t know where this drunk woman appeared from. She also wasn''t a good samaritan, so she coldly said, "You are mistaken. My car isn''t a taxi."


    "I''ll give you...give you money," the drunkard said, seemingly failing to understand Ange''s words as she began struggling with her shoulder bag. A short momentter, she said, "Why isn''t the zipper opening Driver<em>burp</em>gimme a second."


    <em>Give you a second? I don''t have the time for that.</em>


    The traffic light in front turned green, and Ange promptly rolled up the car window. However, as soon as Ange stepped on the elerator, the drunk woman suddenly pounced at the car at a baffling speed and tightly held onto the car''s wing mirror while shouting, "Don''t...Don''t go!"


    Ange was terrified by the woman''s suicidal behavior, and she hurriedly mmed on the brakes. Then, she rolled down the window and angrily bellowed, "Are you insane?! Are you tired of living?!"


    Unfortunately, there was no way a drunkard would know what danger was. Upon seeing the car stopping again, the woman revealed a silly smile and said, "I want to...go back to my hotel."


    "Get a taxi, then! Can''t you see this is a private vehicle?!"


    Upon hearing Ange''s words, the drunk woman began scrutinizing the car she was holding onto. Then, she turned back to look at Ange''s angry face. After staring at each other for several seconds, the drunk woman muttered, "Hah How fierce."


    Ange: "..."


    As a passing breeze struck her, the drunk woman seemingly regained her consciousness. Then, she loosened her hold over the wing mirror, apologized to Ange, and began wobbling away by herself.


    However, to Ange''s surprise, the drunk woman didn''t walk away from the car. Instead, the drunkard had stumbled to the front of the car. Then, after walking another two steps, the drunkard staggered and fell to the ground.


    Ange thoroughly despaired at this situation, and she couldn''t help but wonder to herself, <em>Did Ie across a scammer?</em>


    This wasn''t an impossible scenario. In the current chaotic society, the number of scammers was increasing by the day. Hence, Ange promptly grew alert.


    Seeing that there were no cars behind her, Ange put the car into reverse and turned the steering wheel; she nned to bypass the drunk woman using the otherne.


    However, just as she was about to switchnes, the woman on the ground suddenly climbed up. Ange failed to react in time to this sudden turn of events, and the side of her car brushed past the drunk woman''s body.


    The woman fell to the ground once more.


    <em>I''m screwed.</em>


    Ange fell into a panic. Hurriedly, she unbuckled her seatbelt and got out of the car to check on the woman.


    Upon seeing the drunk woman struggling to stand up, Ange hurriedly moved over and helped her, asking, "Are you hurt anywhere?"


    The drunk woman shook her head and did not speak.


    <em>She''s fine?</em>


    <em>Did I not meet a scammer???</em> Ange was confused.


    Having run out of patience to reason with the drunkard, Ange dragged the woman to the side of the road. Meanwhile, the woman tightly held onto Ange''s arm and stared at thetter with bloodshot eyes. Then, she said, "Don''t be scared. I...I''m not a bad guy."


    Ange: "..."


    Ange couldn''t care less whether the drunk woman was good or bad. All she wanted to do right now was to go home.


    Ange felt relieved after verifying that the drunk woman was unhurt. Then, she broke away from the woman and patiently said, "There are still a lot of taxis operating at this hour. Just wait here for a while."


    "Don''t go" The woman suddenly embraced Ange.


    Ange was dumbfounded. <em>What is she on to now?</em>


    Immediately, Ange tried to push the woman''s arms away. However, when she met with the woman''s eyes, she was stunned.


    The woman was crying. Without making a sound, tears poured out of the woman''s eyes.


    "Hey, hey, hey, what are you" This was the first time Ange hade across such a situation, and she couldn''t help but be at a loss on what to do.


    Meanwhile, the woman slid down along Ange''s body and sat on the ground. Then, while holding onto Ange''s legs, the woman began wailing like a baby.


    <em>Should I call the police?</em> Ange hesitated. <em>But will the police even care about such a situation?</em>


    As it so happened, a taxi drove by at this time, so Ange hurriedly waved at it. However, to Ange''s dismay, the taxi had simply driven past them for some reason.


    Ange: "..."


    By now, Ange''s trousers had already be soaked. Upon sensing the woman''s hot tears making contact with her skin, Ange looked down.


    <em>She''s drinking by herselfte at night and crying to such an extent If she''s not a scammer, then...</em>


    Ange crouched down. When she saw the tears streaming down the drunk woman''s face, her heart softened as she asked, "Did you fight with your boyfriend? Or did you just go through a break-up?"


    In response, the woman lowered her head and muttered, "Boyfriend What''s that? I don''t like men. I don''t like them<em>burp</em>one little bit"


    The woman''s words confused Ange a little.


    <em>If she doesn''t like men, then does she like women?</em>


    While Ange observed the woman, a strange thought suddenly surfaced in her mind.


    Before Ange could sort through her thoughts, the woman started mumbling again, "On what basismust a woman like men?"


    Ange was stunned. If she hadn''t misheard, then this woman should be simr to her. She never thought that the supposed scammer she came acrosste at night would be a lesbian as well. This was simply unbelievable.


    While Ange was lost in her thoughts, the drunk woman seemingly got tired of crying and stopped. Then, she extended a hand to Ange and pitifully asked, "Can you help me up?"


    The woman''s hand was dry and thin. Her palm was also very thin, and it even had a single palm crease.


    After hesitating for a second, Ange grabbed the woman''s hand and helped her stand up. However, as soon as she released the woman''s hand, the other party''s body began wobbling unsteadily.


    Ange felt mentally exhausted over this situation. Then, without even processing her words through her mind, she asked, "Which hotel are you staying at?"


    The woman knitted her brows in response, seemingly in deep thought.


    Seeing the woman''s drunk appearance, Ange vaguely smiled and asked, "Don''t tell me you don''t remember?"


    After letting out another burp, the woman said a name.


    After running the name through her mind, Ange found that the hotel was not only on the way home but also just a short distance ahead. So, she waved at the woman and said, "Get on. I''ll drop you off."


    Ange knew that nothing good ever came out of being a busybody, so she began regretting her actions after getting into the car. However, chasing the drunk woman off the car wasn''t something she could bring herself to do, either.


    Meanwhile, the drunk woman quietly sat in the passenger seat. At this point, the woman had already stopped crying, and she wore a dull expression on her face as she stared at the swaying pendant hanging off of the rearview mirror.


    Ange didn''t bother the woman. While she was still wondering if there was something wrong with herself today, they had arrived at their destination in the blink of an eye.


    After parking the car by the roadside, Ange said, "We''re here."


    However, the woman remained motionless.


    Even when Ange tapped on the woman''s shoulder, thetter remained motionless.


    Puzzled, Ange moved away the hair blocking the woman''s visage.


    "..."


    The woman had fallen asleep during the short ride.


    The woman''s tears had already dried at this time. With how tightly her eyelids were squeezed together, the woman appeared to be experiencing an unhappy dream.


    After taking a closer look at the woman, Ange found that the other party actually looked quite beautiful. The woman''s face was refreshing, her eyshes were thin, and her lips were lightly colored.


    Just as Ange thought to further her observation, the woman suddenly woke up.


    Ange silently retracted her hand and sat upright. Then, she said, "We''ve reached the hotel."


    The woman abruptly looked up, a hint of wariness appearing in her misted eyes as she stared at Ange, "Who are you?"


    <em>What an ungrateful bastard.</em>


    Ange''s lips twitched. When she saw the panicked look on the woman''s face, a yful thought came to her mind. Then, she whistled at the other party and said, "I''m a bad guy who''s about to r*pe you."


    The woman''splexion instantly changed, and she stuck her back against the door, identally bumped her head while doing so. After letting out a yelp, the woman began scrutinizing the person in front of her. Then, realization struck her as she muttered, "...It''s you."


    Angezily ced her hands on the steering wheel and asked, "Remember me now?"


    The woman nodded. Then, she tapped her groggy head and said, "Thank you. I...I''ll give you money."


    After saying so, the woman began struggling with her bag once more.

 Chapter 81: Pt.2

    Chapter 81: Pt.2


    "Thank you. I...I''ll give you money."


    After saying so, the woman began struggling with her bag once more.


    "That won''t be necessary," Ange said.


    The woman seemingly did not hear Ange''s refusal as she continued struggling to open her bag''s zipper. When the woman eventually pulled open the zipper, she clumsily dropped it, and the contents of the bag scattered all over the floor.


    "Give Give me a minute." The woman held her forehead and bent down to search for her purse.


    Despite her purse sitting right under her seat, the woman seemingly failed to see it. After searching for some time, the woman''s breathing gradually becamebored.


    Ange sighed at this scene. After helping the woman pick up her purse, she stopped the other party from opening the purse and said, "I said, I don''t want your money. Please hurry up and get off of my car. I want to go home."


    The woman stared at Ange with her dull eyes for a moment. After taking a moment to realize that Ange was chasing her away, the woman wet her lips and thanked Ange before reaching for the door handle.


    Although the woman took a long time to open the door, Ange couldn''t be bothered to help the other party.


    When the woman finally opened the door, she thanked Ange once more before moving one foot out of the car. Just as her other foot was about to leave, her shoe got caught on something, preventing her from moving any further.


    Having exhausted her patience, Ange stepped out of the car, walked to the other side, and helped the woman with her shoe. However, upon having her shoe freed, the woman lost her center of gravity and began falling forward


    Seeing this, Ange quickly extended her hands to catch the falling woman.


    It was a hot day, so Ange felt very ufortable having another person''s skin making close contact with hers. After silently staring at the woman for a few seconds, Ange let go of the other party.


    <em>Despite having such looks, she still dares get drunk outside by herself. I don''t know if she''s stupid or bold. </em>Ange silently scrutinized the woman in front of her. Then, she asked, "Aren''t you afraid of meeting bad guys?"


    In response, the woman chuckled and said, "My luck tonight is<em>burp</em>good."


    The drunk woman seemingly preferred leaning forward when looking at others. After being on the receiving end of the woman''s unreserved scrutiny for several seconds, Ange turned her head away in embarrassment and said, "I''m leaving.''


    "W-Wait" The woman suddenly held onto Ange''s wrist.


    At this point, Ange began revealing her annoyance on her face.


    Meanwhile, after grabbing Ange''s wrist, the woman leaned forward, to which Ange responded by taking a step back and bumping into her car.


    "...What are you doing?"


    "Shh"


    "..."


    "You have a kind<em>burp</em>heart."


    "..."


    "You look very lovely as well."


    "..."


    "Since you don''t want my money, then I''llI''ll"


    <em>You''ll what???</em>


    Although Ange found the woman to be an annoyance, she couldn''t help but wonder what the woman wanted to say.


    Suddenly, the woman leaned forward, her lips gently making contact with Ange''s lips. Then, she stood upright and sweetly smiled, saying, "I''ll give you a kiss."


    "..." Ange''s mind exploded into an array of colors before subsequently bing aplete nk.


    <em>What happened???</em>


    "I''m leaving, I''m leaving. Bye<em>burp</em>Bye-bye."


    After saying so, the woman turned around and began wobbling away. At this time, Ange finally snapped out of her daze, caught the woman''s wrist, and sternly demanded, "What is the meaning of this?"


    "Nothing," the woman said with an innocent expression. "The girls in Shanghai<em>burp</em>are really beautiful."


    Upon sensing that dry palm gently caressing her face, a blush instantly surfaced on Ange''s face. Only after a moment had passed did she realize that the woman was messing with her.


    While Ange was lost in her thoughts, the woman asked, "What is your name?"


    "..."


    "My name is Fang<em>burp</em>Fang Qin. The ''Fang'' is written using a water and a heart."


    "..."


    What happened next thoroughly exceeded Ange''s expectations.


    Seemingly possessed by something, Ange helped the drunk woman back to her hotel room. However, just as she was about to leave, the woman suddenly embraced her.


    When their two pairs of lips were pressed together, Ange felt like she was in a dream. She had been so stunned that she remained in a daze even when she was pushed onto the bed.


    Only after the woman had started unbuttoning her shirt did Ange snap out of her daze and push the woman away.


    Then, she fled


    ...


    Unlike that night, the streets during National Day were lively and packed with cars. After sitting in the car for several minutes, not only did Ange fail to calm down, but she had grown even more agitated.


    There was a bottle of water in the cupholder. Although Ange did not know how long that water had been left there, she couldn''t be bothered to remember right now. Immediately, she grabbed it and emptied the entire bottle in one breath. Then, after letting out a burp and sorting out her mood, she began driving home.


    Ange drove very quickly, seemingly trying to get away from something. While driving, she repeatedly reminded herself, <em>Don''t think about it. Just pretend as if everything had never happened.</em>


    "Ange, did you put on makeup?" Xu Chuanchuan immediately noticed something different with Ange upon meeting up.


    Ange rarely ever wore makeup. The clothes she wore were very casual as well. However, before leaving home today, she had made sure to torture her face with makeup, mainly to cover up the dark circles under her eyes. While generously letting Xu Chuanchuan research her face, she said, "I applied some powder to help with the sun."


    Noticing a hint of a nasal voiceing from her friend, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly asked, "Did you catch a cold?"


    Clearing her throat, Ange replied, "I set the air conditioner a little too highst night."


    "Is it bad? Do you want me to buy you some medicine?"


    "I''m fine."


    Out of their group of four, Ange was the only one who had a car, so she was responsible for being the driver, while Fang Qin was responsible for being the tour guide. Fang Qin, seated in the passenger seat, restlessly introduced the couple sitting at the back to the various ces they passed by throughout the drive.


    Although Ange rarely spoke, she would still interject and add in her ownments from time to time. Whenever she spoke, though, she would feel a scorching gazeing from beside her.


    Unlike Murong Shi''s hostile gaze, Ange felt like her entire being was being seen through when the person beside her looked at her. This sensation caused her to get goosebumps.


    After an arduous journey, the group finally arrived at their destination. After getting out of the car, the impromptu tour guide, Fang Qin, suddenly ditched the group, saying that she wanted to buy something. She also didn''t mention what she was going to buy.


    Ange was in low spirits throughout the tour. The others in the group thought that it was because Ange was ill, and Xu Chuanchuan had, on multiple asions, suggested to call off their trip and have Ange head back home to rest. However, Ange would decline the suggestion every time.


    The group concluded their trip when evening arrived. After having dinner together, the four finally separated and returned to their respective amodations.


    "Uhm I''m going to check up on my shop, so I won''t be sending you back today," Ange said in a heavy nasal voice.


    Fang Qin didn''t bother verifying whether Ange was telling the truth or not. Looking at the other party''s paleplexion, she took out something from her shoulder bag and said, "This is flu medicine."


    <em>Did she leave to buy medicine just now?</em> Ange felt her heartbeat rising. After epting the medicine, she asked, "How much?"


    Smiling, Fang Qin said, "It''s fine. Just think of it as payment for dropping me off that night."


    Having no intentions of talking about that day, Ange awkwardly turned her head away.


    "That night, I"


    Ange''s heart thumped, and she hurriedly interrupted Fang Qin, saying, "I''m leaving."


    Understanding that Ange was deliberately avoiding the topic, Fang Qin chose to keep her mouth shut.


    On the day Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi were set to leave Shanghai, Ange personally dropped the couple off at the airport. She also gave Xu Chuanchuan a big box of walnut cakes.


    When Xu Chuanchuan felt the weight of the box in her hands, she eximed, "How many did you give me?!"


    Smiling, Ange said, "I''ll send you more if you like them."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know what to say in this situation, so she gave Ange a big hug.


    After the hug continued for three seconds, Ange pushed her friend away and sighed, saying, "I wonder when we''ll get to meet each other again?"


    Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt a little sad. She initially thought to console Ange by saying, "There will definitely be another chance." However, she felt that it was too vague, so she changed her words, saying, "We can still contact each other online even if we can''t meet."


    Ange smiled and replied with an "Mhm."


    Suddenly thinking of something, Xu Chuanchuan turned to look at Murong Shi and Fang Qin, who stood some distance away. Then, she said to Ange, "Fang Qin still isn''t leaving. If you''re bored, you can invite her out to y."


    The smile on Ange''s face slightly changed when she heard Fang Qin''s name. Pretending not to see a certain someone, she said, "Nevermind. I don''t like going outside. It''s also tough for me to get along with people whoI''m not familiar with."


    They had only traveled around together for two days, so Ange and Fang Qin were indeed not particrly familiar with each other.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know the secret between the two, so she smiled and said, "You''ll be familiar with her once you two meet up a few more times. Actually, Fang Qin is very easy to get along with."


    Ange did not follow up with Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    At this time, Murong Shi walked over and asked, "Done?"


    Ange looked at the time and said, "Hurry up and go through the security check."


    "Then, we''re leaving now," Xu Chuanchuan reluctantly said.


    Smiling, Ange waved at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Bye-bye. Have a safe journey."


    "Bye-bye."


    After going through the security checkpoint, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from looking back, only to see Ange and Fang Qin standing together and talking about something. However, as they were too far apart, she couldn''t get a clear look at the two''s expressions.


    "Be careful not to bump into other people," Murong Shi said as she pulled the shorter woman to her side.


    Retracting her gaze, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Why do you think Fang Qin refused to go back with us? Does she n on never going back?"


    Murong Shi fell silent for a moment. Then, she shook her head and said, "Let her loosen up properly."


    Fang Qin would have to face her headache-inducing parents once she returned. Rather than doing so, it would be much better to continue having fun outside.


    Not wanting to continue on this heavy topic, Xu Chuanchuan changed the subject and asked, "Don''t you think that Ange and Fang Qin are quite a good match?"


    "Not at all," Murong Shi answered without hesitation.


    "Not at all???" Widening her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How are they not a good match???"


    Many other passengers were in the waiting hall, so Murong Shi brought Xu Chuanchuan to a secluded spot. After sitting down, she said, "Fang Qin is too emotional. She can''t stand loneliness and is easily hurt."


    "You meanAnge will hurt her?"


    While helping her lover smooth her slightly fuzzy hair, Murong Shi leisurely said, "I don''t know if that will happen, but Tang Xin"


    "Hmm?" Xu Chuanchuan innocently blinked her eyes.


    Then, Murong Shi revealed a meaningful smile and said, "Tang Xin is a scheming person. She is too adept at hiding her thoughts and emotions. Fang Qin is no match for her in this regard at all."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan had known Ange for six years now, so she felt that she should speak up for her friend. "You''re just prejudiced. Ange is nothing like what you described. She might be cold towards strangers, but she is kind toward those close to her."


    Murong Shi snorted, evidently disagreeing with Xu Chuanchuan''s opinion. However, she didn''t wish to argue over such a matter, so after pondering for a moment, she said, "Although I don''t have any good feelings for her, if she can end up together with Fang Qin, I would be more than delighted to see it happening."

 Chapter 82: Pt.1

    Chapter 82: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan''s visit to Shanghaisted for five days. Although she didn''t manage to visit Disnend like she wanted to, she was still pleased with the trip.


    Xu Chuanchuan had received far too many walnut cakes from Ange. Worried that she wouldn''t be able to finish them before they go bad, she stopped by Xu Xiangxiang''s university on the way home from the airport to give some to her little sister.


    It was currently the holidays, so Xu Xiangxiang''s three roommates had returned to their respective homes. Only Xu Xiangxiang remained in the school dormitory.


    When Xu Xiangxiang heard that Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had secretly visited Shanghai, she asked in a gloomy tone, "Why didn''t you bring me?"


    "The ne tickets are too expensive," Xu Chuanchuan frankly said.


    Xu Xiangxiang was momentarily rendered speechless by her elder sister''s stinginess. Then, while chewing on a walnut cake, she nced at Murong Shi before saying, "Whatever. I don''t wanna be the third wheel, anyway."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi smiled and said, "Linda will be returning from Mysia tomorrow. I had her buy souvenirs on her way back. I''ll send some to you when she''s back."


    "Will there be anything to eat?"


    "Probably."


    Xu Xiangxiang''s eyes lit up in excitement at the mention of food. Then, she hugged Murong Shi and said, "Big Sis Shishi, you''re the best!"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan chided, "Didn''t you say you were going on a diet?"


    "I give up. I''m not dieting anymore," Xu Xiangxiang said with a long face.


    "Why?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, sensing something strange with her little sister''s tone.


    While patting the cake crumbs off of her body, Xu Xiangxiang said, "The studio originally nned to give me the best rmendation spot when my school holiday began. But they managed to poach a streamer from another broadcasting tform recently, and they decided to give my rmendation spot to this neer to increase her poprity on the tform. Hardly anyone has beening to watch me these past few days. I also barely made any money. How infuriating."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan didn''t understand much about streaming, what she did know was that her little sister had been bullied. So, she said, "If it''s about money, I can be the one to earn it. Your holidays are going to end soon, so you should focus on your studies instead."


    "But I''m still angry!" Xu Xiangxiang said in agitation. "They promised to give me the slot, so how can they go back on their word? Thest studio bullied me, and now this one is mistreating me as well!"


    After careful thought, Xu Chuanchuan came to realize that her little sister''s streaming career didn''t seem smooth at all. The previous studio Xu Xiangxiang worked with had scammed her out of her pay, while the current studio refused to keep its promises.


    However, despite seeing Xu Xiangxiang''s aggrieved expression, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should go about consoling and helping her little sister. After all, she had too little understanding of the streaming industry.


    "You''re signed with Jiang Shaohua''s studio, right?" Murong Shi asked.


    Xu Xiangxiang vented her anger and grief on another piece of walnut cake. While chewing on the cake, she vaguely said, "It''s him."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi pulled out her phone from her bag, looked up Jiang Shaohua''s number, and called him.


    The phone rang for a long time. Eventually, the call connected, and an unfamiliar woman''s voice came through the phone, "Hello?"


    Murong Shi was momentarily stunned but quickly came to a realization. Jiang Shaohua was a phndering womanizer, and he changed women even more quickly than he changed clothes. So, it wouldn''t be strange for an unfamiliar woman to answer the phone for him.


    After calming herself, Murong Shi said, "Please get Jiang Shaohua on the phone."


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''s voice, the voice of the woman on the other end instantly took on a sharper pitch as she asked, "Who are you?"


    Murong Shi frowned. However, keeping her cool, she patiently repeated, "I''m looking for Jiang Shaohua."


    "..."


    The sounding from her phone suddenly disappeared. When Murong Shi took a look at her phone''s screen, she found that the other party had hung up.


    Murong Shi''s mood soured after getting hung up for no good reason. Then, she switched to sending Jiang Shaohua a voice message through WeChat, saying, "Call me back within ten minutes. It''s urgent."


    After seeing Murong Shi putting down her phone with a gloomy expression, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Murong Shi subsequently retold what had happened.


    As soon as Murong Shi finished speaking, Xu Xiangxiang smacked the coffee table in front of her and said, "Is it that new dancer?"


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi briefly exchanged looks with each other.


    Then, Murong Shi curiously asked, "What''s the situation?"


    "I only heard it in passing myself." The walnut cakes had absorbed all the moisture in her throat, so Xu Xiangxiang paused to rehydrate it. Then, she continued, "The streamer that recently joined is called Sweet Melon, and the content she does mostly consists of those types of dances. She also has a vixen''s face and a spectacr body, so she''s especially popr among men. After she arrived, she instantly became the highest-earning streamer in the studio, so Young Master Jiang pampers her a lot. From the rumors I heard, she even became Young Master Jiang''s girlfriend shortly after she joined. Many of the other female streamers in the studio are very envious of her."


    After hearing Xu Xiangxiang''s story, Murong Shi snorted and said, "Jiang Shaohua''s girlfriends number at least a handful. What''s there to be envious of?"


    "But those who gain Young Master Jiang''s favor will get good promotional spots on the tform, and only those who get viewers can earn money. Everyone''s doing it for the money," Xu Xiangxiang pouted.


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "I guess you''re right."


    Xu Xiangxiang rested her chin on the back of her hands and sighed. Then, she said, "And because I heard Sweet Melon is Young Master Jiang''s girlfriend, I don''t dare toin about my promotional slot getting taken."


    Murong Shi extended a hand and rubbed Xu Xiangxiang''s head. Then, she said, "Don''t worry, I''ll get justice for you."


    As soon as Murong Shi finished speaking, her phone started ringing, and the words "Jiang Shaohua" appeared on the screen. Seeing this, Murong Shi immediately retracted her emotions and answered the call.


    "What is it, Murong?" This time, it was finally Jiang Shaohua answering the phone.


    Skipping formalities, Murong Shi got straight to the point and talked about Xu Xiangxiang''s situation. Then, she coldly stated, "I ced my lovely and innocent little sister in your hands, yet you give her such treatment?"


    Surprised, Jiang Shaohua asked, "Since when did Xu Xiangxiang be your little sister? How many little sisters do you have?"


    Running out of patience, Murong Shi said, "Don''t change the topic."


    Jiang Shaohua retracted his joking attitude. Then, in a solemn tone, he said, "I typically leave the studio''s management to my subordinates, so I have no idea that something like this is going on. How about this? I''ll ask them about itter on, and I promise to give you a satisfactory answer."


    While Jiang Shaohua was utterly unreliable when it came to rtionships, he would always hold to his words, so Murong Shi did not doubt his promise. Then, Murong Shi suddenly recalled the unfamiliar woman from before and asked, "I heard you made a new girlfriend called Sweet Melon?"


    "You sure have a good informationwork," Jiang Shaohua said in exasperation. Then, he put on a contemptuous smile and said, "What girlfriend? We''re just taking what we need from each other."


    After hearing this, Murong Shi tacitly stopped probing into this matter and ended the call.


    Then, with the word "gossip" written in both her eyes, Xu Xiangxiang eagerly asked, "Is it Sweet Melon?"


    Murong Shi replied with an "Mhm."


    "How crafty of her," Xu Xiangxiang said. Then, in a reluctant tone, she continued, "I guess having good looks has its advantages after all."


    "How good-looking is she?" Xu Chuanchuan asked out of curiosity.


    Xu Xiangxiang pulled out her phone and clicked into KS Broadcasting''s application. Then, she clicked on the name Sweet Melon listed in her friend list, entered the other party''s profile, and found a bunch of selfies saved in the other party''s photo album.


    The photos taken showed Sweet Melon making varying expressions. She appeared cute in some photos and ambiguous in others. The majority of her selfies also exposed her thighs and cleavage. Looking at the photos, it was undeniable that Sweet Melon was a beautiful woman. Her appearance looked sweet and sexy.


    "It''s artificial," Murong Shi stated.


    Upon hearing Murong Shi''sment, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but take a closer look at the pictures. Meanwhile, the more she looked at the pictures, the more she found that Sweet Melon''s facial features looked a little stiff.


    Xu Xiangxiang hurriedly nodded in agreement with Murong Shi''s words and said, "The other girls in the studio also said that she must''ve gone under the knife before. They said that she probably reshaped her eyes and nose. Looking at how full her lips are, she probably injected something into them as well. Also, her chin is so sharp that it looks like it can stab someone to death."


    Xu Chuanchuan could easily discern the envy in her little sister''s tone. Chuckling, she said, "You''re an all-natural, so why envy a person who has undergone stic surgery?"


    "But men like her type! Even if they know she has done stic surgery, they still throw a bunch of presents at her," Xu Xiangxiang said, disgruntled. "Do you think I should do some minor modifications as well?"


    Upon hearing Xu Xiangxiang''s words, Xu Chuanchuan immediately gave her little sister a knock on the head. Then, she said, "Do you have too much money to spend?"


    Xu Xiangxiang held her head in pain. Just as she was about to fight back with her own words, she heard Murong Shi saying, "You look good as you are. No need topare yourself with others."


    Xu Xiangxiang instantly burst with joy when she received praise from someone as beautiful as Murong Shi.


    Xu Chuanchuan was in a bit of a daze as she walked out of the student dormitory.


    "What are you thinking about?" Murong Shi asked.


    Frowning slightly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I seem to have seen that Sweet Melon from somewhere before. She feels very familiar, but I can''t seem to remember where I''ve seen her before."


    "Doesn''t everyone who undergoes stic surgery look the same?" Murong Shi said nonchntly.


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head. She liked to overthink things whenever there was even a hint of doubt in her mind. While she was in deep thought, she suddenly felt someone gently pinch her right cheek.


    After letting out a soft hiss, Xu Chuanchuan innocently looked at the person beside her and asked, "Why did you pinch me?"


    "What do you think?" Although Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan with a gentle gaze, her tone carried a hint of warning as she said, "You''re thinking of another woman right in front of me. Are you treating me like I don''t exist?"


    "..." While having both her cheeks pulled, Xu Chuanchuan stared at Murong Shi in a daze for a few seconds. Then, she widened her eyes and asked in surprise, "You''re even getting jealous over a female streamer that we don''t know?"


    Sure enough, Murong Shi lived up to her nickname of Big Jealous Bug.


    After having traveled by ne and by car, Xu Chuanchuan felt a little dizzy by the time she got home. So, she dragged Murong Shi to bed and had an afternoon nap together.


    Partway through their nap, Murong Shi woke up to the sound of her phone ringing. Instead of answering the phone immediately, she covered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears and whispered, "It''s nothing. Go back to sleep."


    Xu Chuanchuan mumbled something before turning to the other side and going back to sleep.


    The call was from Jiang Shaohua, and he said that he had already looked into Xu Xiangxiang''s matter. He also promised to promote Xu Xiangxiang''s channel on the tform''s front page whenever Xu Xiangxiang was streaming.


    In response, Murong Shi said "thank you" to him.


    "Thank you? Are my ears ying tricks on me?!" Jiang Shaohua was shocked. "Aren''t you a little too caring toward Xu Xiangxiang? What''s your rtionship with her?"


    "I already said she''s my little sister," Murong Shi said. Having no intentions to borate any further, she said, "Just make sure to look after her for me. Don''t let your subordinates mistreat her."


    "Alright, alright." Jiang Shaohua understood Murong Shi''s personality, so he didn''t continue prying into the matter. "Honestly, I quite like this little girl. She''s good at talking and attracting money. With how talented of a streamer she is, I definitely have to nurture her properly."


    After having her rest disrupted by this call, Murong Shi no longer felt sleepy. So, she sat in the living room and began looking through the emails Linda sent her.

 Chapter 82: Pt.2

    Chapter 82: Pt.2


    At around three o''clock in the afternoon, Murong Shi woke up Xu Chuanchuan, saying, "Get up and wash up. We''ll be treating Linda to dinnerter."


    "Linda is back?" Xu Chuanchuan groggily asked.


    "Mhm."


    Linda did not disappoint Murong Shi and brought back a bunch of souvenirs from Mysia. She had brought back so much that the back seat of Murong Shi''s car had be stuffed with items.


    While looking at the souvenirs, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at something and curiously asked, "What is that?"


    "It''s a silicone pillow. Miss Murong specifically asked me to buy one. Apparently, it''s good for the spine," Linda exined with a smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan skeptically looked toward Murong Shi.


    In response, Murong Shi ran her cold fingers down the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s neck and said, "You can sleep on it from now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s lumbar spine and cervical spine had grown bad from the years she spent writing novels. asionally, her entire neck would stiffen. And to avoid agitating her cervical spine, she would avoid using a pillow when sleeping. For this reason, Murong Shi would frequently feel distressed and chide her.


    This present was incredibly useful. So, while hugging the pillow, Xu Chuanchuan happily said, "Thank you."


    "Just a ''thank you?''" Murong Shi asked with an ambiguous smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned bright red. Then, after sneaking a nce at the silent Linda, Xu Chuanchuan red at Murong Shi and visually warned her, <em>There''s an outsider here! Mind your words!</em>


    However, Murong Shi simply smiled in response to the warning. Then, she boldly sped fingers with Xu Chuanchuan and said to Linda, "Thank you for your hard work. Let''s go; we''ll treat you to dinner."


    Linda had just returned from abroad, so Murong Shi didn''t want to interrupt her rest. After dinner, she offered Linda a ride home.


    "That won''t be necessary. My boyfriend is already here," Linda said as she pointed at a car parked some distance away from the restaurant.


    Due to the distance, Murong Shi couldn''t tell what Linda''s boyfriend looked like. She could only discern that someone was in the car Linda pointed out. After retracting her gaze, she said, "I see himing to pick you up quite often. It seems you two have a good rtionship."


    Linda shyly smiled at Murong Shi''s words. Then, she said, "That''s right. We''ve been together for two years now, and we n on getting married at the end of the year."


    Murong Shi was slightly surprised by the news. Then, she also smiled and said, "Congrattions."


    Xu Chuanchuan also hurriedly congratted Linda.


    "I''ll send you two an invitation when that timees," Linda said before leaving.


    Linda''s resplendent smile before she left caused Xu Chuanchuan to sigh ruefully. "She looks so happy."


    "Being able to marry for love is naturally a happy thing."


    Looking up at Murong Shi with affection in her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you love me?"


    Murong Shi took a moment to look at their surroundings. After seeing that nobody else was around, she gave a quick peck on Xu Chuanchuan''s lips and said, "I love you."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to be happy at the answer as she said in a disheartened tone, "But we can''t get married."


    This was indeed a mncholic problem. Murong Shi''s expression stagnated upon hearing her lover''s words, and she couldn''t help but sink into deep thought.


    Realizing that she had ruined the good atmosphere surrounding them, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly put on a carefree smile and said, "I''m joking. I don''t mind if we can''t get married. It''s fine so long as I get to be together with you."


    Murong Shi saw how forced Xu Chuanchuan''s smile looked. After remaining silent for a moment, she said, "It might not be possible in the real world, but there is a way."


    "What is it?"


    In a gentle tone, Murong Shi said, "You can write our story into a novel and make it so that same-sex marriage is possible in the book."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned. Then, after several seconds had passed in silence, she embarrassingly said, "ActuallyI''ve long since had this idea. I was just worried that you would refuse, so I didn''t dare to bring it up."


    "Since it''s a story about you and me, why would I refuse? Write away," Murong Shi said with a smile.


    Upon receiving Murong Shi''s approval, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt the blood within her boiling with excitement. Then, she eagerly said, "You''ve stirred the creativity within me! This won''t do, I need to head back and start writing immediately!"


    The story''s main characters would be Xu Chuanchuan herself and Murong Shi, so there was no need to waste time on character settings. After three hours of constant writing, Xu Chuanchuan sessfully wrote out the general outline of her new story. The story would include their first meeting and the bits and details that took ce in the following months. Then, she showed the story''s plot to Murong Shi.


    "Check if I missed anything."


    After looking through the document, Murong Shi pointed at a particr timeline and said, "I want to know what exactly happened when you visited G City together with Tang Xin."


    Xu Chuanchuan had only briefly mentioned her visit to G City with Ange. She never thought Murong Shi would notice it. After pondering for a moment, she said, "Nothing much happened. We just paid a visit to the film crew."


    Murong Shi did not continue probing into the matter. Instead, she took another look through the document. Then, she said, "Apart from one point, I think everything else is fine."


    "Which one?" Xu Chuanchuan earnestly asked.


    "If you must write about Tang Xin, I think you should add an extra identity for her."


    "What identity?" Xu Chuanchuan eagerly asked.


    "My main love rival."


    "..." <em>I shouldn''t have asked.</em>


    Before writing her new story, Xu Chuanchuan asked Ange through QQ whether she could put the other party in her work. She also sent Ange a copy of her plot to Ange for reference.


    Ange: "Write as you please. I don''t mind."


    Ange''s reply moved Xu Chuanchuan. "Rest assured, I''ll properly conceal your identity."


    Ange: "You two really are something. Not only are you showing off your love in the real world, but you''re even going to do it online now. Do you n on telling the whole world about your love?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "[Shy]"


    Ange: "I envy you two sometimes."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t see Ange''s facial expressions, she could somehow tell that these words carried a hint of grievance.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How are things going along with you and Fang Qin?"


    Ange: "Nothing. It''s not like we''re familiar with each other."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t you want to try interacting with her?"


    Ange: "Nope."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    As if receiving some kind of summoning, after Ange typed herst reply to Xu Chuanchuan, her phone sitting by her keyboard suddenly rang once. After sending her phone a nce and seeing an avatar that had frequently appeared in recent times, Ange''s expression changed slightly.


    Pretending not to have noticed the message notification, Ange tabbed back to her work document and resumed writing her novel. However, because of her restless heart, the words she typed out were merely a bunch of nonsense. After deleting the nonsensical words she wrote, she picked up her phone out of frustration.


    Fang Qin: "The holidays are ending, so I''m going back to S City tomorrow. Can I treat you to dinner tonight?"


    To match Ange and Fang Qin, Xu Chuanchuan gave Ange''s phone number and WeChat ID to Fang Qin before leaving Shanghai. When Ange first saw the friend request from Fang Qin, she had hesitated for a long time. Although she wanted to reject the request, her finger had disobediently clicked "ept."


    Although Fang Qin had indeed said that she had forgotten about what had happened on that night of absurdities, Ange highly doubted that Fang Qin would forget everything. Hence, she would feel incredibly awkward if they were to meet up. Yet, if they didn''t meet up, she would constantly find herself having nonsensical thoughts.


    Ange had never agonized so much over a question before, and she hated herself for being so indecisive. In the end, she stopped thinking and simply typed: "I''m busy tonight."


    Several secondster, Fang Qin sent another message: "What about noon tomorrow?"


    <em>Noon It''s just around the time I wake up...</em>


    After sitting idly in front of herputer for several minutes, Ange subconsciously typed: "Okay."


    On the 10th of October, Xu Chuanchuan''s ninth yuri novel, After Being Bent by Reader, officially began serialization, and the first chapter was set to release at 9 PM.


    The time it took for her to start a new book this time was the shortest because she was simply writing a story about herself. She felt she was in her element when writing the book. This was also the first time she had started publishing a novel without preparing a stockpile of chapters. She also didn''t bother advertising her book in her reader group or Weibo.


    Xu Chuanchuan had made sure to use different names for the characters in the story. She only kept the pseudonyms of "I Love Mtang" and "Passerby Shi." However, when Xu Chuanchuan thought about how this would be an actual story about herself and Murong Shi, she couldn''t help but feel a little embarrassed.


    After secretly publishing the first chapter, Xu Chuanchuan began fidgeting in her seat.


    "What if nobody reads it?" Xu Chuanchuan asked as she turned to look at Murong Shi. "What are you doing? You''re topping up??? Don''t tell me you''re thinking of"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could finish speaking, she saw Murong Shi agilely tapping away at her phone and sending out ten Deep-water Torpedoes.


    Five hundred yuan had disappeared in the blink of an eye


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly lost her mind as she yelled, "I''ll only receive half of that money!"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s frantic expression amused Murong Shi. After kissing her lover on the lips, Murong Shi said, "I need to support my girlfriend''s work."


    "You can leave a review if you want to support me!!!"


    "Lazy."


    "..."


    After waiting in agony for several minutes, Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group suddenly exploded with activity.


    Lord started a new book!


    Ahhh! She really did! I''m going to read it now!


    I just came back from reading it! It''s good!


    Don''t you guys think there''s something strange about the book''s name and description? A yuri author who''s been writing for six years being bent by her top donor. Erm I suspect this is the author''s autobiography.


    I know, right?! I think so, too! Lord has also been writing for six years now!


    So, Lord, did you really get bent??? @I Love Mtang


    If this is true Who''s the top donor?


    It''s Tycoon Shi!!!


    Eh, I can''t even tag her. Why isn''t Tycoon Shi in the group anymore???

 Chapter 83: Pt.1

    Chapter 83: Pt.1


    Messages flooded Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group, catching Xu Chuanchuan by surprise.


    As the two were sitting close to each other, Murong Shi also saw the messages. Then, she pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s stiffened cheek and teasingly asked, "Afraid of replying to them?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t afraid of replying to her readers'' messages. Instead, she was stumped by therge number of people tagging her in their messages, and she didn''t know which one she should reply to first.


    Even after several minutes had gone by, new messages still flooded the group chat one after another. Meanwhile, everyone''s discussions still revolved around topics such as "Is the new book the author''s autobiography?", "Did the author really get bent?", and "What is the rtionship between Tycoon Shi and the author?"


    Looking at the rate at which the group''s members were sending out messages, Xu Chuanchuan felt that the group members would eat her alive so long as she appeared.


    There were over a thousand members in the group chat and close to a hundred daily active users. Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan only had two hands. How could she possibly win against all these people?


    Before Xu Chuanchuan managed to resolve her anxiety about starting a new book, she had to face another serious problem. After nervously swallowing her saliva, she timidly said, "Maybe it''s better not to reply"


    In response, Murong Shi applied more force to the arm she had wrapped around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist. Then, she narrowed her eyes and asked, "Are you still afraid of letting them find out?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wiped the sweat on her palms against her pants. Then, leaning into Murong Shi''s chest, she blinked her eyes and said, "I''m not afraid. I just feel that...it''s very embarrassing. I''ll be writing about you in a few chapters anyway. They''ll know what''s going on once they read that part. Aren''t I right?"


    However, Murong Shi did not follow up with Xu Chuanchuan''s question. Instead, she asked, "What are you embarrassed about?"


    A faint blush appeared on Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks. Then, she timidly said, "I used to emphasize that I''m straight. Afraid that they''ll misunderstand, I''ve even repeatedly sworn in the group chat that I won''t be bent. Yet, now"


    Murong Shi gently caressed her lover''s lips that had dried up from anxiety. Then, she slowly said, "If I remember correctly, you even swore to me that you''d never date your readers."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyelids trembled. Then, in a guilty voice, she asked, "D-Did that happen?"


    Murong Shi raised an eyebrow, her eyes revealing her mirth. However, she still maintained a calm expression as she said, "I still have our conversation history saved up. Should I find it to prove it to you?"


    "No need!" Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly stopped Murong Shi from grabbing her phone.


    "You lying author," Murong Shi teased.


    Xu Chuanchuan guiltily shrank her neck until her head reached Murong Shi''s chest. When she heard the pounding of the other party''s heart, her own heart calmed down a little. Then, Xu Chuanchuan sat up, lifted her chin, and said, "You have the gall to call me a liar? Who was the one who used a pseudonym to mess with me at the beginning?"


    Murong Shi''s expression stiffened.


    "You liar," Xu Chuanchuan said, poking a finger at Murong Shi''s heart.


    Murong Shi really did not wish to revisit this dark past of hers. She also couldn''t argue about this matter since she was indeed in the wrong. So, she pointed at the washboard and broken keyboard sitting in the corner of the room and collecting dust, asking, "Should I go kneel now?"


    <em>...I should get rid of those things. What an eyesore. </em>When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi standing up, she quickly pulled her lover back down and said, "What nonsense are you saying? You already showered."


    Murong Shi sat down and embraced Xu Chuanchuan once more. Just as she was about to lower her head and kiss the shorter woman, she found thetter''s gaze focused on her phone.


    A novel was like an author''s child, and the moment of publication was equivalent to the moment of childbirth. Xu Chuanchuan was both eager and anxious to see everyone''s reactions. With a swipe of a finger, she refreshed the page of her novel, revealing many newments.


    After carefully looking through thements, Xu Chuanchuan found that rather than the novel itself, everyone was more focused on gossiping.


    Meanwhile, the most eye-catchingments were none other than the system announcements mentioning Passerby Shi''s ten Deep-water Torpedoes. One of thosements even had a long list of replies.


    Caught me a Tycoon Shi!


    Tycoon Shi, you actually got the firstment! Did you find out about the book as soon as Lord published it? There must be something going on between you two!


    There must be something going on! Just look at the book''s name and these ten Deep-waters! There''s no way you two are innocent!


    I''ll pass the mic to you. Tycoon Shi, please tell us the story between you and Lord.


    I''m dying of curiosity! Did you really bend our Lord???


    Tycoon Shi, why aren''t you in the group chat anymore? Join the group and talk to us! We''re all eagerly waiting to hear from you!


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless by thements.


    Failing to see any story-rtedments, Xu Chuanchuan exited jjwxc''s app and switched to QQ. When she saw the messages there, she couldn''t help but scratch her head in frustration.


    Since the group members couldn''t tag Passerby Shi, they switched to tagging I Love Mtang instead. This ended up causing Xu Chuanchuan to be tagged in even more messages.


    <em>Whatever. I''ll just continue ying dead. Their messages should stop once the novelty wears off. </em>With such thoughts in mind, Xu Chuanchuan tossed her phone aside.


    The next moment, though, Murong Shi picked up Xu Chuanchuan''s phone, unlocked it, and began tapping away on the screen.


    "What are you doing?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in confusion. When she snatched her phone out of Murong Shi''s hands and looked at the screen, she couldn''t help but gape in shock.


    Group System Message: Moderator I Love Mtang has approved Passerby Shi''s request to join the group.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Although new messages quickly drowned out the system message, many people with sharp eyes still saw it.


    I saw Tycoon Shi entering! [Image]


    Tycoon Shi must''ve seen our summons! Heavens, why am I so excited?


    Ahhh!


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi busily typing away at her phone, she wanted to ask what the other party was trying to do. However, before she could open her mouth, Murong Shi had already clicked the "Send" button.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan looked at her phone.


    Passerby Shi: "Everyone, thank you for supporting my girlfriend and her story."


    This message was akin to a bomb as a torrent of messages instantly flooded the group chat.


    My god.


    Tycoon Shi, your girlfriend is our Lord???


    Heavens! I guessed correctly!


    Passerby Shi, did you really bend Lord?


    Is there even a need to ask? Lord must''ve been bent! Lord doesn''t even dare show herself right now. She must be hiding in a corner and lurking the chat.


    Could this Passerby Shi be a fake?


    That shouldn''t be the case. Even her avatar is the same.


    To prove that she wasn''t a fake, a certain someone had casually sent a 1,000-yuan red packet to the group. Murong Shi''s actions were so quick that Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even have time to stop her.


    Immediately, the group members began frantically fighting over the red packet. Then, after emptying the red packet, they promptly resumed their previous discussion.


    Tycoon Shi, I love you~


    Ahhh! I didn''t get any!


    I didn''t get any, either, but I don''t care. I want to listen to gossip! Tycoon Shi, did you really get together with Lord?


    Unfortunately, Murong Shi didn''t have the time to reply to any messages as Xu Chuanchuan had pushed her down onto the bed and was currently educating her on being thrifty.


    "You even sent a red packet?! Do you have too much money lying around?!" Xu Chuanchuan chided, pinching and squeezing Murong Shi''s body. Of course, she made sure to control her strength.


    While nimbly avoiding Xu Chuanchuan''s attacks, Murong Shi smiled and said, "They''re too cute."


    "Who''s cuter? Them or me?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, her arms akimbo.


    "Of course you''re cuter," Murong Shi said before turning the tables and pressing Xu Chuanchuan down on the bed. Then, she sealed thetter''s lips with her own.


    Several minutester, Murong Shi separated from Xu Chuanchuan while panting. Then, she sat up to check her phone again.


    However, there were too many messages to read. After roughly reading a few messages, she summarized her words and said: "Your Lord and I have been together for five months already."


    Five months??!!!


    So, you two were already together since thest book!


    Heavens! It''s been so long already? Aren''t you two too good at hiding it?


    Ahhh! It''s actually true! Congrattions!


    Congrattions! I also want a girlfriend. Maybe I should start writing novels as well?


    The Lord actually got bent, lololol.


    So, is this new book an actual story about Lord and Tycoon Shi?


    Lololol, Lord has always emphasized that she wouldn''t get bent. What do you have to say for yourself now? @I Love Mtang


    Lord, I know you''re here. Stop lurking.


    That''s right, that''s right.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan the Lurker quietly hid under the nket.


    Murong Shi couldn''t help but chuckle at this sight. After dragging Xu Chuanchuan to her side, she quickly typed: "Your Lord is shy."


    What''s there to be shy about? Come out and unt your love.


    That''s right. What''s there to be shy about? Come out! We''re very gentle. We won''t beat you.


    We won''t beat you. At most, we''ll give you a punishment.


    What kind of punishment?


    Have them upload a 10-second video of them French-kissing to the group!


    Good idea!


    I''m curious about something. Is Lord the one on top, or is she at the bottom?


    Is there even a need to ask? Of course, she''s at the bottom! She doesn''t even dare toe out now. She''s definitely a submissive!


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    If Murong Shi were to reply to every message, her fingers would probably be crippled. So, she selectively chose the top-and-bottom question and replied: "Your Lord has a bad back, so she prefers staying at the bottom."


    I knew it!


    Ah! My nose is bleeding!


    Lord,unch a counter-attack tonight!


    Agreed!


    Counter-attack+1


    The discussion topic deviated more and more, and Xu Chuanchuan''s face turned bright red when she read the messages. Finally, unable to take any more of this nonsense, she pushed Murong Shi down and said, "Stop talking nonsense!"


    However, Murong Shi revealed a bright and joyful smile before kissing Xu Chuanchuan on the lips. Then, she asked, "nning tounch a counter-attack?"


    Infuriated by Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan decided to retaliate and bit down on Murong Shi''s lower lip.


    After letting out a groan, Murong Shi hugged Xu Chuanchuan and rolled onto the bed. Then, her hand slithered its way down and gently rubbed Xu Chuanchuan''s sensitive ce.


    "Uu" Xu Chuanchuan let out a subdued moan as her body became mush, and tears formed in her eyes.


    Why did Tycoon Shi disappear again?


    Did she get counter-attacked by Lord?

 Chapter 83: Pt.2

    Chapter 83: Pt.2


    Two hourster


    Even though it was midnight already, the group chat was still bustling with activity. Needless to say, the topic of "Tycoon Shi bending the author" was still ongoing even now.


    It wasn''t good for an author''s readers to pay too much attention to her private life, so Xu Chuanchuan panicked a little in this situation. However, if she were to appear in the group chat now, she would only cause another wave of messages to flood the group chat. So, she had no choice but to vent her frustration on Murong Shi.


    "It''s all your fault for messing around."


    Murong Shi didn''t think the readers would react so intensely, either, so she self-reflected for a moment. Then, she picked up a phone and gave a summarized answer targeted toward everyone''s questions: "You can read the novel if you wish to know more about our story, so let''s put an end to the discussions about my girlfriend and me. Any more and your Lord might get upset."


    Another surge of messages appeared in the group chat as soon as "Passerby Shi" appeared.


    Tycoon Shi, you''re still awake?


    Alright, alright, we''ll stop discussing it. Lord, don''t get mad. @I Love Mtang


    Don''t get angry. We''re just curious; we don''t have any bad intentions. Lord, I still love you!


    I only have one question. Can I ask it? (Passerby Shi''s reply: Ask away.)


    Then, said reader asked: "Since you''ve long since gotten together with Lord, why did you leave the group before?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted tough when she saw this question but dared not to. Then, she looked toward Murong Shi, wanting to know how the other party would answer.


    The matter of herself getting kicked out of the group chat was embarrassing, so Murong Shi naturally wouldn''t tell the truth. With a straight face, she replied: "My hand slipped."


    "Pfft" Xu Chuanchuan failed to hold back herughter.


    Fortunately, the girl who asked this question simply took Murong Shi''s word for granted and didn''t overthink it.


    "It''s gettingte. Everyone" Before Murong Shi could finish typing her message, a new message in the group caught her attention.


    I Love Hotpot: "Hand slipped? What nonsense. Don''t believe her. [Image]"


    When Murong Shi opened the image and took a look, herplexion instantly darkened.


    September 17, Group Owner has removed Passerby Shi from the group.


    This screenshot instantly overturned Murong Shi''s excuse.


    Xu Chuanchuan also saw the screenshot, and she couldn''t help but hold her stomach and startughing out loud, "Hahaha"


    I just witnessed a real-time face-pping.


    Tycoon Shi, how can you be so naughty? You clearly got kicked, so why must you lie?


    I''m even more curious now. Tycoon Shi, what did you do to get yourself removed?


    She must''ve done something bad!


    I believe the Lord''s hand must''ve slipped. (   )


    Darling Shi: Can you all please stop talking?


    Murong Shi: "..."


    It was rare to see Murong Shi suffering a loss, so Xu Chuanchuanughed herself to the point of shedding tears. However, less than three secondster, Murong Shi suddenly tossed her phone aside and pounced on Xu Chuanchuan. Then, while tickling Xu Chuanchuan''s soft waist, Murong Shi asked, "Do you find it funny?"


    "I was wrong, I was wrong," Xu Chuanchuan pleaded for mercy while wiping her tears.


    Murong Shi only released Xu Chuanchuan after torturing her for a while longer. With displeasure written on her face, she pulled up her lover''s naked body and picked up the phone on the bed. Then, while staring at the group chat disyed on the phone, Murong Shi asked, "Is this moderator one of your readers as well?"


    The person Murong Shi referred to was I Love Hotpot, the user who disappeared after leaving behind that incriminating evidence.


    While pulling up the nket to cover her body, Xu Chuanchuan waited for her breath to settle before saying, "No, that''s Ange''s sub-ount."


    Murong Shi''splexion darkened even further, her expression giving Xu Chuanchuan a scare.


    Worried that Murong Shi would use her phone to remove Ange from the group, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly stored her phone away and said, "Ange likes to y jokes, so don''t take it seriously."


    However, Murong Shi simply sneered and said, "I won''t lower myself to her level."


    Xu Chuanchuan sighed in relief when she heard Murong Shi''s reply. Then, she yawned and said, "I''m tired. Let''s go to sleep."


    "Mhm."


    Before going to bed, Murong Shi made a trip to the bathroom. After returning, she grabbed both their phones and plugged them into the chargers on theputer desk.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Shi standing in front of theputer desk for some time, she grew curious and asked, "What are you doing?"


    "Linda emailed me. I''m sending her a reply," Murong Shi said without turning around.


    "Oh, then hurry up."


    "Right away."


    After letting out another yawn, Xu Chuanchuan found afortable sleeping posture and closed her eyes.


    They had to work in the morning, so Murong Shi woke up Xu Chuanchuan early in the morning. After changing into her work clothes, Xu Chuanchuan unplugged her phone from the charger. When she saw that she had an unread message, she unlocked her phone and checked it.


    Ange: "Look at this person. She''s threatening me. [Image][Sweat]"


    Upon clicking on the image, Xu Chuanchuan found that it was a screenshot of a conversation between Ange and Murong Shi.


    Passerby Shi: "I still have over 200 Moonstones on my ount."


    I Love Hotpot: "Big Sis, did you message the wrong person?"


    Passerby Shi: "I heard I can give over a hundred point reductions with them."


    I Love Hotpot: "..."


    The timestamps showed that the conversation took ce around 12:15 AM, just before they went to bed. Xu Chuanchuan realized that Murong Shi had lied to her about replying to Linda''s email.


    At this time, Murong Shi entered the room and urged, "What are you doing fiddling with your phone early in the morning? Hurry up and go wash up."


    Turning around, Xu Chuanchuan got straight to the point and asked, "Don''t tell me you''re really going to give point reductions to Ange?"


    In response, Murong Shi lightly chuckled and said, "No? Do I look so immature to you?"


    <em>You''ve always been immature, </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought. Fortunately, her intense desire to live prevented her from saying these words out loud.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s cheek and asked, "She had the gall toin to you?"


    While looking at Murong Shi''s "righteous" expression, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You had the gall to threaten her, so why can''t shein about you?"


    "Did she badmouth me?"


    "No."


    "Let me see."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan handed Murong Shi her phone and showed her the screenshot.


    After looking through the screenshot, Murong Shi smirked and said, "I''ll let you read the full version."


    "What full version?"


    After grabbing her own phone, Murong Shi showed Xu Chuanchuan the conversation she had with Angest night. To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, there were two more messages not captured in Ange''s screenshot.


    I Love Hotpot: "Boss, I found some new resources recently. Should I send them to you?"


    Passerby Shi: "Fine. Email them to me."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan never thought that her wild and carefree friend wouldpromise so easily. However, after giving it some thought, she found that it was a reasonable response. Even for an author of Ange''s caliber, receiving over a hundred point reductions was something to be afraid of.


    Though, after this incident, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder how Ange managed to find all those nonsensical "resources."


    Ever since Xu Chuanchuan deleted the folder of "resources" Ange sent her, Murong Shi had been grieving andining about her wastefulness incessantly. Now that she had received new resources, she eagerly dragged Xu Chuanchuan along with her to watch them.


    The next night, the couple sat on the bed naked. While restraining the excitement within them, they ced theptop between them and prepared themselves to enjoy the action movie Ange sent them. The moment Murong Shi pressed the y button, loud music sted their ears


    "Baby gourd, baby gourd, seven flowers on a vine. Not afraid of wind, not afraid of rain. Ll~"[1]


    "..."


    "..."


    If Murong Shi flooded Ange with point reductions this time, Xu Chuanchuan felt that Ange would well deserve it.


    Fang Qin rented arge suite near thepany Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan worked at. It had a living room, a bedroom, and a small kitchen. After learning of the news, Murong Shi brought Xu Chuanchuan with her for a visit.


    "You don''t have a lot of things," Xu Chuanchuanmented after taking a look around the suite. She even heard an echo of her voice.


    Fang Qin wasn''t wearing makeup today, so her face looked even paler than usual. Her voice also sounded a little weak as she said, "Most of my stuff is at home. But I don''t want to see them, so I didn''t even bother going back to collect it."


    There wasn''t much unpacking Fang Qin needed to do. After she dropped off her luggage, the three of them went out for food.


    While waiting for the food to be served, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from asking, "Are you still in contact with AnTang Xin?"


    Fang Qin faintly smiled and shook her head. Then, she looked down at the cup of water in front of her to hide the loneliness in her eyes.


    Before Fang Qin left Shanghai, she had invited Tang Xin out for a meal through WeChat. She didn''t hold much hope initially, but the other party had surprisingly agreed to her invitation.


    The night before the appointment, Fang Qin had gotten so excited that she hardly got any sleep. Then, she woke up early in the morning, put on makeup, dressed in her best-looking clothing, and waited for noon to arrive.


    Fang Qin was in agony as she waited for time to pass. When eleven o''clock arrived, she couldn''t sit still any longer and sent Ange a reminder not to forget about their appointment.


    When a reply came, Fang Qin opened the message with joy.


    Ange: "Sorry, but something came up all of a sudden, so I can''t have lunch with you anymore."


    Fang Qin felt like someone had just poured a bucket of cold water on her when she read the message.


    At the time, Fang Qin felt like she had just been yed. Yet, she also couldn''t bring herself to get angry. After all, she was the one who had vited Ange that night.


    As for whether Ange''s words were the truth or an excuse, Fang Qin didn''t dare to verify them.


    TL Notes:


    [1]This is a children''s song.


    Link: shorturl.at/fmAQ1

 Chapter 84: Pt.1

    Chapter 84: Pt.1


    Murong Shi had saved some souvenirs Linda brought back from Mysia for Ange, and she told Xu Chuanchuan to send them to the other party.


    So, Xu Chuanchuan contacted Ange and asked her for her address.


    Ange: "Since when is she so kind as to send me something? Don''t tell me she''s sending me ?! [Horrified]"


    After the <em>Gourd Baby</em> video incident, Murong Shi and Ange had once more be mortal enemies. With Murong Shi''s temper, Xu Chuanchuan was quite worried that her lover would act on her threat and flood Ange with point reductions. However, facts hadter proven that it didn''t happen.


    Ange had also realized that she had gone a little too far with her prank. So, when she heard that Murong Shi was sending her gifts, she couldn''t help but be wary.


    Based on what she knew of Murong Shi''s and Ange''s personalities, Xu Chuanchuan guessed that the two might never reconcile in this lifetime. However, there was nothing she could do about this situation, either. When she saw Ange''s message, she also didn''t know whether tough or cry.


    If it really were a , then the courier wouldn''t even dare to pick up the package.


    To appease Ange''s worries, Xu Chuanchuan opened the parcel, took pictures of its contents, and forwarded them to Ange. "All of it is foodstuff. I''ll personally pass the parcel to the courier if that makes you happy."


    Ange: "That''s more like it."


    After receiving Ange''s address, Xu Chuanchuan promptly ced an order through her phone, setting the collection time at 9 AM tomorrow.


    Murong Shi was currently showering. Xu Chuanchuan had also just finished writing a chapter. With nothing better to do, she started chatting with Ange.


    Ange: "This new book of yours is quite sessful. Both the review and bookmark counts are rapidly rising. It might even be a big hit."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t hoping for her new book to be a huge sess. She only wanted to write it to the best of her abilities.


    Unlike in the past, the story this time wasn''t something Xu Chuanchuan made out of thin air. Instead, the story was based on the actual emotional experience between herself and Murong Shi. Hence, the story held extraordinary significance to her.


    During the first few days of publication, Xu Chuanchuan worried that her writing was poor and that nobody would want to read it. However, she was also concerned that too many people would read the book. After all, once the number of readers increased to a certain point, there were bound to be haters and trolls appearing among them. She did not wish to see others badmouthing her and Murong Shi''s story.


    However, after putting more thought into the matter, Xu Chuanchuan realized that amercial publication was like a dish served at a restaurant, and the readers were the customers. The customers would be the king so long as they spent money in the restaurant, and they had more than enough qualifications to leave a good or badment on the dish''s taste.


    Meanwhile, on jjwxc''s tform, only authors who chose not to mize their novels had the qualifications to reject negativements and reviews.


    Suddenly, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she had been a little too reckless when starting this book.


    At night, Xu Chuanchuan tossed and turned on the bed, unable to fall asleep. Her actions even woke up Murong Shi. Unable to quell the anxiety in her heart, Xu Chuanchuan ended up venting to Murong Shi regarding the matter that had been troubling her for the past few days. "Do you think it''s a bad idea for us to sell our story for money?"


    "How is it a bad idea?" Murong Shi asked in a sleepy tone.


    Xu Chuanchuan smothered her face against Murong Shi''s breasts. After seemingly regaining her sense of safety, she mumbled, "The rtionship between couples should be pure and beautiful, yet I''m using our story to pander to my readers and make money. Isn''t this a type of sphemy?"


    Murong Shi''s body heated up from Xu Chuanchuan''s actions. After regaining most of her consciousness, she lifted her chin and looked into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, saying, "Even the purest of rtionships will need to be established on a material basis. Writing is your job, and you work hard every day to write this story. Shouldn''t you be rewarded for your efforts?"


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes in a daze.


    "Only a fool would refuse money when offered. So long as you''re not tricking or stealing from people, what problem is there?"


    Xu Chuanchuan found Murong Shi''s words to be reasonable. After being sessfully brainwashed, Xu Chuanchuan mechanically nodded and said, "There''s no problem."


    "You''re relying on your skills to make money. Who would dare criticize you for doing so?" Murong Shi said before kissing Xu Chuanchuan on the forehead. Then, while gently massaging the crease in her lover''s forehead, Murong Shi continued, "Don''t overthink things."


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find herself to be hypocritical. Even though she was a pauper, she was still pretending to be high-minded.


    Xu Chuanchuan could only write around 100,000 words a month, and she nned to write around 400,000 words for this story. Working four months for nothing was simply an unrealistic situation. She would even lose money from the endeavor because of the electricity fees for powering herputer.


    After their brief therapy session, Xu Chuanchuan felt her tensions disappearing. Then, rubbing her droopy eyes, she said, "Then, I''ll stick to collecting money. Otherwise, I''ll be stressed out if I have to face my creditor every dayUu"


    Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s lips shut. Then, pretending to be upset, she said, "What ''creditor?'' It''s ''wife.''"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan pulled Murong Shi''s hand away and grinned, saying, "Alright, my wife! Let''s sleep!"


    Swiftly typing away at her keyboard, Xu Chuanchuan sent a message to Ange, saying: "My bookmark count increased by 500 after your Weibo advertisement. Your readers are too wonderful. I love you~"


    Xu Chuanchuan had only remembered to advertise her new book on Weibo three days after its publication. Meanwhile, as her good friend, Ange had immediately shared the post on her own Weibo, which increased the book''s reach significantly.


    Ange: "What are you thanking me for? The readers aren''t fools. They only decided to bookmark your book because it''s good. If it''s a terrible book, no amount of promotion will be useful. Not to mention, many of my Weibo followers are also your followers."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "()"


    The new book was already on its fifth chapter, and Xu Chuanchuan would receive over a hundredments every day. While she was indeed joyful over this wonderful reception, she also couldn''t help but feel embarrassed whenever she read some of thements.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan did not mention even once in her book that the story was about her real-life experience, many people still saw the message "Passerby Shi" left in the group chat. And since Murong Shi had requested the group members not to mention this matter in the group chat, the group members had switched to discussing in the book''sment section.


    However, no matter what her readers asked, Xu Chuanchuan chose not to reply to any of them. Instead, she tried to silence them by offering red packets through the system.


    While chatting with Ange, Xu Chuanchuan had sent out over 200 red packets in batches. After their conversation came to an end, she exited jjwxc''s website, turned off herputer, andid down on the bed.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan''s body hit the bed, her phone suddenly vibrated. It turned out that Ange had sent her another message, asking: "Do you still n on doing a physical publication for the previous book?"


    Whenever Xu Chuanchuanpleted a book, she would seek out the local printing service to make a physical publication of the book and host a giveaway to thank her readers. It had already been half a month since she concluded her previous book. She had also published the side stories and marked the book as "Completed" a few days ago. However, as she had been too hasty in starting hertest book, she hadpletely forgotten about thest book''s physical publication.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I am. I''ll get it done this weekend."


    Ange: "Do you need some art? I know a girl who can do it for free."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "For free? Really?!"


    Ange: "She''s one of my readers. She''s currently learning art and looking for character settings to practice her skills."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How is her art?"


    Ange: "[Image][Image][Image]She drew these for me. I think they''re not bad."


    The three images were finished products, and Xu Chuanchuan found them to be more than satisfactory. So, she replied without hesitation: "Okay."


    Ange: "Her QQ number is ********. Add her and talk to her about the details."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Okay!"


    When Murong Shi returned from the bathroom, she saw Xu Chuanchuanzily leaning on the whale bolster while fiddling with her phone. So, she reminded, "Your turn to shower."


    "Give me a minute," Xu Chuanchuan answered without lifting her head.


    Seeing the mesmerized look on her lover''s face, Murong Shi walked over and skeptically looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s phone, only to find that Xu Chuanchuan was chatting with someone.


    "Is it Tang Xin again?" Murong Shi asked, pretending not to care.


    "Nope, it''s a freshman little sister."


    "Little sister?" Murong Shi''s eyebrows twitched. "Since when did you hook up with a little sister?"


    Xu Chuanchuan stopped tapping away at her phone and looked up. While staring into Murong Shi''s dark eyes, she smiled and said, "What do you mean ''hook up?'' She''s an artist, and I''m asking her for some cover art."


    Murong Shi''s expression lightened up. Then, she urged Xu Chuanchuan to go to shower once more.


    Xu Chuanchuan got out of bed barefooted and went to look for a change of clothes. While fumbling through the closet, she said, "This girl''s art style is rather old-fashioned. My work is in a modern setting, so I feel that she isn''t particrly interested. I used to have a reader who is very good at drawing as well. The characters she draws are adorable, and they give off a warm and sweet feeling. It''s a pity that she stopped reading my books. Even her Weibo has gone silent."


    "Is she the one who helped you draw the cover of the six previous books?" Murong Shi asked.


    "That''s her," Xu Chuanchuan said while picking up a pair of underwear. Then, she tilted her head and continued, "If I''m not mistaken, I think she''s studying in Ennd... Oh!"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s sudden exmation gave Murong Shi a scare, and she even nearly dropped the towel she held. Then, she asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "I suddenly remembered something. Some time ago, someone messaged me on Weibo saying that the girl who did my cover art is her ex. That person wanted to collect her ex''s art, so she offered to buy a copy of those six books back then. That person''s story moved me, so I just gave her those six books for free," Xu Chuanchuan said. "Give me a second. I''ll check my message log; it should still be there."


    "Don''t bother," Murong Shi said as she pulled Xu Chuanchuan toward her.


    "It''ll be quick," Xu Chuanchuan stated.


    However, Murong Shi did not release Xu Chuanchuan as she said, "You don''t need to check. I know who you''re talking about."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How can you know?"


    "The person who did your cover art is Fang Qin''s ex, while Fang Qin was the person who asked for your books."


    "For real?!" Xu Chuanchuan eximed with widened eyes.


    "Fang Qin has previously been living in Ennd," Murong Shi said. After a slight pause, she continued, "Her ex wanted to study abroad, so Fang Qin abandoned her work and family to apany the girl. Three yearster, that girl dumped her."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan remembered Murong Shi telling her this story before. Only, she never thought that there would be so many coincidences in this world.


    "Fang Qin is a foolish woman..." Murong Shi said with a bitter smile. "At the time, she had just returned to the country and dared not meet with her parents. So, she hid in my family''s house for some time. The address of the parcel you sent her is my family''s house. The phone number she gave you is also mine."


    A lot of time had passed since that incident, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t remember the details of that time clearly. However, she could still remember that the woman asking her for the books at the time lived in the same city and same district as she did. Back then, she had even made sure to take a few extra nces at the other party''s information.


    Nevertheless, Xu Chuanchuan had been careless. Had she known that the provided phone number belonged to Murong Shi, she could''ve simply called it and exposed Murong Shi. Then, she wouldn''t be kept in the dark.


    After hearing Xu Chuanchuan voice her reflections, Murong Shi raised an eyebrow and said, "I wouldn''t have answered even if you called me."


    Xu Chuanchuan snorted in response. Then, she suddenly remembered something as she asked, "The first time I sent books to you, I called the number you gave me to test your identity. Why was there a cat''s cry back then?"


    Murong Shi: "..."


    Leaning closer to Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan looked up and said, "It was you pretending to be a cat, wasn''t it?!"


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about," Murong Shi said with a straight face.


    "WahYou still have the cheek to pretend? Do you think I don''t have evidence?"


    "What evidence?" Murong Shi asked with a raised brow.


    Murong Shi''s question stumped Xu Chuanchuan. She had been so nervous back then that she had forgotten to make a voice recording!


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan straightened her neck and said, "I might not have evidence, but I know you''re pretending! You even lied to me, saying that it was your cat!"


    Murong Shi smiled but did not speak.


    "You were the cat, weren''t you? Let me strip you down and see if you''re a human or a cat!"


    In response, Murong Shi spread out her arms and generously said, "Come. You''re wee to do so."


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately approached Murong Shi. However, before her hands touched Murong Shi''s skin, she stopped. She had been using her keyboard and phone just now, so she couldn''t bear to ce her dirty hands on Murong Shi''s pristine skin. After letting out a snort, she said, "Hmph. I''ll take care of you once I''ve showered."


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "I''ll wait for you."

 Chapter 84: Pt.2

    Chapter 84: Pt.2


    To no one''s surprise, when Xu Chuanchuan came out of the shower and climbed on the bed, she was the one who got stripped instead. Then, with her limbs sprawled out on the bed, Xu Chuanchuan gasped for air as sheined, "You liar."


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan''s voice sounded weak and not threatening at all. With a smirk on her face, Murong Shi circled her forefinger around one of Xu Chuanchuan''s breasts. Then, she suddenly lowered her head and enveloped it in her mouth.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan''s resistance copsed in the blink of an eye, her mind drowning in pleasure.


    Murong Shi''s phone rang amidst their lovemaking. However, neither of them paid any attention to it.


    After the deed, Murong Shi pulled Xu Chuanchuan out of bed and dragged her to the bathroom. On the way out, she also took a look at her phone and saw that Fang Qin had called her. Without much thought, she called the other party and asked, "What do you want?"


    Pretending to be surprised, Fang Qin asked, "It''s been an hour already. Did I interrupt your fun time just now?"


    "Do you have any business, or not?"


    "Actually, it''s nothing particrly important. I''m leaving on a business trip tomorrow, so I wanted to ask you to help me take care of my little cuties."


    "Little cuties?"


    "The fish I''m raising."


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan only managed to hear parts of the conversation. When she saw Murong Shi hanging up the phone with aplicated expression, she curiously asked, "Is Fang Qin going on another trip?"


    "She says she''s going on a business trip for a few days."


    "Where is she going?"


    "She didn''t say."


    "Oh."


    It was fortunate Murong Shi did not ask. Otherwise, Fang Qin wouldn''t have any idea how she should answer.


    A few days ago, Fang Qin suddenly got the urge to raise fish, so she went to a pet shop and bought a few. She also bought them a half-meter fish tank that currently sat on the shelf in the living room.


    Unfortunately, it was suddenly decided today that she had to go on an impromptu business trip tomorrow. Worried that her fish would starve to death during her absence, she had no choice but to ask Murong Shi for help.


    Fang Qin had also booked her ne ticket online today. After packing her luggage, she pulled out her phone to recheck her flight schedule.


    The flight was at 8:15 AM, and the ne would be flying from S City to Shanghai. This meant that she would have to wake up very early tomorrow.


    Fang Qin couldn''t help but haveplicated feelings at the thought of flying back to Shanghai less than a week after leaving the city.


    Why Shanghai? This could only be chalked up to coincidence.


    After returning to the country, Fang Qin had gone job hunting for two months without any luck. One day, she bumped into her university roommate, Zhu Chen. After conversing with her friend, Fang Qin found out that Zhu Chen and her husband had started an advertisementpany together, and thepany was currently hiring. So, Fang Qin ended up receiving an invitation to work at thepany.


    Because of this rtionship, Fang Qin managed to unconditionally take a few weeks off to go travel.


    Zhu Chen''s husband mentioned that he would be leaving on a business trip during today''s meeting. Initially, he had nned to bring his female secretary with him. However, after the meeting, Zhu Chen had secretly approached Fang Qin and asked, "Fang Qin, can you drop your work here for now and go with my husband on his business trip?"


    Confused, Fang Qin asked, "Isn''t he going with his secretary? Aren''t two people enough?"


    Then, Zhu Chen dragged Fang Qin into an empty office nearby and locked the door behind her. Afterward, she discreetly pointed her chin at the female secretary that was passing by outside and whispered, "They''re a lone man and woman going on a business trip. I can''t help but worry."


    Stunned, Fang Qin pointed at herself and said, "I''m a woman as well."


    Zhu Chen drew the curtains and briefly scanned Fang Qin''s face. Then, she said, "You''re different from her. You don''t like men."


    Apparently, not liking men could also be considered a kind of "advantage."


    Fang Qin unnaturally turned her head away. Then, she said, "If you''re worried, why don''t you just go with him?"


    Zhu Chen sighed in response to Fang Qin''s words. Then, while rubbing her belly, she said, "I''m pregnant, so it''s inconvenient for me to fly around."


    "You''re pregnant?" Staring at her friend''s t belly, Fang Qin said, "I can''t tell. How many months has it been already?"


    Zhu Chen wasn''t tall. She was also a little chubby. So, when she smiled, the flesh on her cheeks would bulge, giving her a gentle look. Then, she happily said, "It''s only been three weeks, so, of course, you can''t see it."


    Fang Qin also smiled as she said, "Congrattions."


    "Thank you," Zhu Chen said. Then, she affectionately held onto Fang Qin''s hands and continued, "Although my husband is an honest person, I still can''t help but worry about letting other women stay around him. We''ve been roommates for four years, so I know I can trust you. Help me out, please?"


    Fang Qin was honestly reluctant to leave so soon after she had just returned home. However, she also couldn''t resist Zhu Chen''s soft tactics. Not to mention, Zhu Chen was her boss, so she couldn''t disobey her even if she wanted to.


    "Alright, then, I''ll go. But where to?"


    "Shanghai."


    "..." Fang Qin''s mind nked out when she heard where the business trip would be taking ce. Hesitantly, she asked again, "Where?"


    "Shanghai." Seeing the dazed look on her friend''s face, Zhu Chen thought her friend was regretting her decision. So, she softly said, "Shanghai is a little far away, but don''t worry. I''ll book ne tickets for you two; you''ll reach there in just two hours."


    Fang Qin didn''t care whether she would be traveling to Shanghai by ne or by train. She didn''t even pay attention to what Zhu Chen was saying. Instead, only one thought filled her mind: That person also lives in Shanghai.


    After leaving Shanghai, Fang Qin never contacted Tang Xin again. Their chat history also remained at that awkward point.


    Since Tang Xin was intentionally rejecting her, there was no way Fang Qin would shamelessly continue sticking to the other party.


    As Fang Qin hade to Shanghai this time for work, her mood when she left the airport waspletely different. Moreover, as time was of the essence, Fang Qin had to constantly run about Shanghai every day with Zhu Chen''s husband. She had no time to think about other things at all.


    On the third day after they arrived in Shanghai, Zhu Chen''s husband sessfully secured the business deal he was aiming for. This had happened two days sooner than he expected. He had been so happy at the sessful negotiation that he called his secretary on the spot to book him a flight home right on that same day. He was more than eager to fly home and share this good news with his wife.


    After hanging up the call, he looked to Fang Qin and said, "Thank you for your hard work. I''ll treat you to a big meal once we return."


    "Okay."


    Several minutester, the secretary bought the ne tickets and forwarded the flight schedule to their phones. After taking a look, Fang Qin found that their ne would depart in two and a half hours.


    Zhu Chen''s husband smiled and said, "Since you''re here already, why don''t you buy some souvenirs to bring back home?"


    Apart from Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi, nobody else knew that Fang Qin had flown to Shanghai. However, just as Fang Qin was about to say "Nevermind," she dismissed the notion as she suddenly thought of buying some deserts.


    When Fang Qin had been wandering around Shanghai together with Xu Chuanchuan and co., they had passed by a cake shop that caught her attention. So, she decided to visit said shop.


    Colorful balloons hung at the cake shop''s entrance. There were also two golden bells dangling behind the ss door. So long as someone entered through the door, the bells would make a crisp sound.


    <em>The renovation is quite detailed. This probably increases the customer''s desire to buy things, right?</em> Fang Qin thought as she scrutinized the shop.


    Then, a lukewarm greeting came from further inside the shop, "Wee."


    <em>This voice</em>


    There were rows of shelves blocking her view, so Fang Qin couldn''t see the person who greeted her. Gently, she walked into the shop. Unfortunately, as she was wearing high heels, she still made a lot of noise despite walking carefully. In turn, the noise she made ended up attracting the attention of the person counting change at the cash register.


    When Ange raised her head and saw the approaching woman, she couldn''t help but be taken aback.


    Ange instantly forgot how many banknotes she had counted thus far. As she watched the approaching woman take step after step, she stammered, "W-Why haven''t you left yet?"


    Fang Qin didn''t think that they would reunite in such an unexpected manner. While scanning the cute apron Ange wore, Fang Qin smiled and asked, "Are you surprised?"


    Ange: "..."


    Recently, Xu Chuanchuan had been seeing people showing off their cats on her social media. To be precise, it was Little Yan showing off her chubby British Shorthair and Ange showing off her three beautiful Ragdolls. Whenever Xu Chuanchuan saw pictures of these cats, she couldn''t help but have an itch in her heart.


    Eventually, Xu Chuanchuan asked Murong Shi, "Should we raise one as well?"


    However, Murong Shi furrowed her brows and said, "I don''t like furry animals."


    "Are you allergic to fur?"


    "The one who''s allergic to fur is my mother. I just dislike fur by nature; I find it troublesome."


    Xu Chuanchuan curled her lips. Then, while gently poking Murong Shi''s heart, she said, "The fact that you dislike animals shows that you don''t have love in your heart."


    Murong Shi did not get angry. Instead, she grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, kissed it, and affectionately said, "I''ve given you my entire heart, so I don''t have any excess love to spare for other things."


    "Tsk, how romantic," Xu Chuanchuan said in disgust. However, despite her reaction, she still felt joyful at hearing Murong Shi''s words.


    "This is what you call romantic." Immediately, Murong Shi pulled apart the cor of Xu Chuanchuan''s nightgown, held one side, and sucked on it.


    Xu Chuanchuan gasped, feeling like her soul had just been sucked out.


    "Is that romantic enough for you?"


    "Y-Yes"


    <em>It''s even swollen Why must you use so much force? I don''t even have milk. o()o</em>


    If not for their lunch break being too short, Xu Chuanchuan suspected that a certain someone would behave even more wolfishly. Hurriedly, she covered herself with a pillow and warily hid aside.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a little depressed at being prohibited from raising a pet cat. Since she couldn''t raise a live one, she decided to go on Taobao and search for a cat doll to use as decoration. However, partway through her search, she came across a bunch of strange items.


    "Wao"


    "Why aren''t you sleeping yet?" Murong Shi, who had just shut her eyes, asked after having her rest interrupted.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan showed Murong Shi her phone and pointed at a certain image disyed on it. "I''m sure you''ll look spectacr in this."


    After looking at the image, Murong Shi pursed her lips and remained silent.


    The image was of a sexy cat dress.


    Without waiting for Murong Shi''s reply, Xu Chuanchuan retracted her phone and happily added the item to her shopping cart.

 Chapter 85: Pt.1

    Chapter 85: Pt.1


    <em>Jingle, jingle</em>


    The bells at the door rang once more. As if avoiding something, Ange looked toward the entrance and loudly said, "Wee!"


    Compared to the greeting Fang Qin received, Ange''s current greeting sounded more vivid and powerful. However, it also sounded a little rushed.


    Fang Qin also looked toward the entrance.


    However, not a soul could be seen by the entrance as the bells had only rung because of the wind.


    Ange: "..."


    Fang Qin chuckled.


    One yuan, two yuan, three yuan, four yuan


    Ange resumed counting the banknotes in her hands in silence, pretending as if nothing had happened. Unfortunately, no matter how hard she tried, she couldn''t ignore the woman, who was half a head taller, standing in front of her.


    Unable to keep up the act, Ange put the banknotes back into the cash register and looked up. "Are you here to buy cakes?"


    Initially, Fang Qin had only gotten a sudden urge to visit this cake shop. Never did she think she would meet Ange here. Then, while running her fingers through her hair, she said, "That''s right."


    Ange secretly sighed in relief when she realized that Fang Qin didn''te here looking for her.


    "Ah, no," Fang Qin quickly added.


    "..." Ange''s heart thumped, and her right eyelid twitched. Her hand also shook slightly. This, in turn, caused her to release the metal clip meant to hold down the banknotes, and the clip smashed straight down onto the tip of her pinky. Fortunately, she managed to endure the pain and did not cry out loud.


    Although Ange didn''t show any changes on the surface, inwardly, she was praying for other customers to enter the shop. Unfortunately, business this afternoon was slow.


    Ange''s cousin brother had to leave the shop to pick up some supplies today, while his wife had to stay at the back and focus on baking cakes. Since it was rare for her to visit the shop, Ange had volunteered to look after the shop. However, never did she think that she would wee such a customer.


    If she''s not here to buy cakes, what is she here for? Ange couldn''t figure out what Fang Qin was trying to do. However, she also couldn''t bring herself to ask.


    "That"


    "I"


    The two opened their mouths to speak almost simultaneously, only to then retract their mouths simultaneously as well.


    While randomly tapping her foot against the ground, Ange said with an indifferent expression, "You go first."


    After sorting out her thoughts, Fang Qin said, "I came here with my boss this time, and I''ll be heading back in a few hours, so I thought to buy some walnut cakes back for them."


    <em>So she </em>is <em>here to buy things. That makes things easy. </em>Pointing at a certain disy shelf, Ange said, "They''re just behind you. They''re freshly baked this morning."


    Fang Qin turned around and approached the shelf.


    Seeing this, Ange breathed out a sigh of relief.


    The walnut cakes came packed individually and in boxes of twelve, and they were neatly organized on the shelf. Fang Qin grabbed six boxes without much thought and went to pay for them.


    Ange had already brought out a paper bag while Fang Qin was away. When she saw the other party bringing back so many boxes, she pondered for a moment before saying, "They''re too heavy. Leave them on the counter first and give me a second; I''ll get a bigger bag for you."


    Fang Qin didn''t know what Ange was up to, but she still obediently ced the boxes of cakes on the counter.


    Although Ange owned this cake shop on paper, she only knew how to collect and store money. She wasn''t too familiar with the locations of the various items in the shop. Hence, it took her quite some time to find a superrge paper box. When she stood up from under the counter, she identally bumped into something, and a ribbon ended up hooking around her neck.


    "..."


    Ange hurriedly tried to pull the ribbon off of her neck, but her struggles only ended up creating a bigger mess.


    Suddenly, a hand reached out to her. Upon seeing this hand, Ange subconsciously tried to take a step back.


    "Don''t move," Fang Qin said.


    Ange''s body stiffened.


    Fang Qin did not look at Ange. She fully focused her attention on the ribbon. Carefully, she widened the noose around Ange''s neck and removed the knotted ribbon through the top of Ange''s head. "Alright, it''s done."


    Ange felt relieved when Fang Qin''s hands moved away. Then, she threw the obstructive ribbon aside and said, "Thank you."


    "You''re wee."


    <em>What''s wrong with me today? Why can''t I do anything right? And of all people, why did I have to make a fool of myself in front of </em>her<em></em>


    Ange''s heartbeat elerated, and she tried her best to maintain a calm appearance. Afraid that she would make another blunder, she deliberately slowed down her actions and carefully folded the paper box. Then, she ced the six boxes of walnut cakes into the paper box.


    As the packing ribbon was in a mess, Ange picked up a pair of scissors and haphazardly trimmed the knotted portion. Then, she began tying up the box in a seemingly professional manner.


    Throughout this process, Fang Qin''s eyes constantly trailed after Ange''s actions. When she saw Ange struggling with the ribbon, she kindly reminded, "Actually, I''m not in much of a hurry."


    However, Ange seemingly did not hear Fang Qin as she continued struggling with the ribbon. After tying a non-standard bow, she pushed the paper box to Fang Qin and put on a polite smile. Then, she said, "Sorry for the long wait."


    "It''s fine." Fang Qin stared into Ange''s eyes and hesitated to continue speaking.


    "It''s done," Ange said and pushed the paper box a little further forward.


    "How much?"


    "No need. It''s a gift."


    Fang Qin was a little taken aback by Ange''s words. After switching her gaze between the paper box and Ange for a moment, she asked in confusion, "Why?"


    Ange was like a "patient" who had been staying at home for too long and lost the ability tomunicate as she repeatedly opened and closed her mouth without saying anything. Only after some time had passed did she manage to squeeze out some words, saying, "Just...think of it as my treat."


    However, Fang Qin found this excuse to be too far-fetched. Turning around, she looked at the price tag on the shelf and saw that one box of walnut cakes sold for ten yuan. So, she took out 60 yuan and handed it to Ange.


    Ange: "..."


    Seeing that Ange wasn''t epting the bills, Fang Qin ced the money on the counter and picked up the paper box with one hand. Then, she said, "Some of them for my colleagues. It''d be awkward to have you treat them as well."


    Ange silently put the money into the cash register.


    Fang Qin did not leave the shop afterpleting her purchase. Instead, she looked around and asked, "How is business today?"


    If one wasn''t in the know, one would think that Fang Qin and Ange were long-time friends with how casually Fang Qin spoke. However, this was only their third meeting in reality.


    While avoiding Fang Qin''s eyes, Ange dryly said, "So-so. You''re the only one who has entered the shop so far today."


    As soon as Ange finished speaking, the bells at the entrance rang once more.


    When Fang Qin heard footsteps following the jingling bells, she turned around and saw through the shelves that someone had entered the shop. Then, she smiled and said to Ange, "Another customer is here."


    Ange also saw the new arrival. Only, when she found this new arrival to be a familiar figure, a hint of disappointment surfaced on her face. However, in no time at all, joy had reced that disappointment as she said, "It''s my cousin."


    The few minutes Ange spent alone with Fang Qin had suffocated her greatly. Now that her cousin had returned, she couldn''t help but feel liberated.


    Seeing her cousin carrying bags of varying sizes into the shop, Ange hurriedly walked forward and asked, "Do you need help?"


    Ange''s cousin handed some of the bags to Ange and wiped his sweat with his freed hand. The bags contained some cake knives and paper boxes, and he had her store them under the counter. After leaving behind some instructions, he carried the rest of the bags to the back of the shop.


    Then, the two were alone once more. To avoid an awkward situation, Ange quickly went under the counter.


    Seeing that Ange was busy and that there was nothing she could help with, Fang Qin carefully asked, "Have you been very busy these past few days?"


    Ange had finished putting the items in their rightful ce in no time at all. However, she deliberately remained under the counter, fiddling with stuff to waste time. Unfortunately, to her dismay, Fang Qin remained persistent and did not leave.


    "Sowhen you said you suddenly had something to do that afternoon, was it because you had to take care of the shop?"


    <em>That afternoon?</em>


    Ange nearly blurted out her thoughts. Then, when she met with Fang Qin''s probing eyes, she quickly understood what the other party was referring tothe day she deliberately stood Fang Qin up.


    Ange awkwardly looked away and vaguely replied with an "Mhm."


    "I see." Fang Qin did not doubt Ange''s reply. Looking down, she took a moment to adjust her mood. Then, she said, "Alright, I''ve held up your work for long enough. Goodbye."


    Ange found Fang Qin''s lukewarm attitude to be within expectations. However, she also couldn''t help but feel a little disappointed. She also noticed that Fang Qin did not say "see you next time," probably because the other party thought they wouldn''t have any more opportunities to meet again.


    Fang Qin walked to the entrance in a leisurely manner, her heels producing crisp sounds as they made contact with the floor.


    "Wait" A hesitant voice called out to Fang Qin.


    Fang Qin''s footsteps stopped. Then, she slowly turned around and looked at Ange.


    "That day"


    Fang Qin quietly waited.


    <em>Forget it. I better not exin. </em>Taking a deep breath, Ange asked, "Have you eaten yet?"


    Fang Qin opened her mouth slightly, her brain failing to process the situation. After staring at Ange for a moment, Fang Qin shook her head.


    "Me neither. Do you want to join me?" Ange asked with an awkward expression on her face. "I''m really sorry for missing the appointmentst time. I''ll treat you to make up for it."


    Fang Qin didn''t understand why Ange suddenly had a change in attitude. Regardless, a hint of joy appeared in her heart as she said, "Okay."


    By the time Fang Qin found the cake shop andpleted her purchase, half an hour had gone by already. To avoid missing her flight scheduled to take off in two hours, they visited a nearby restaurant and ordered a few simple dishes.


    This meal wasn''t just a simple meal for Ange. She also didn''t offer to treat Fang Qin on a whim. Instead, it was her token of apology for skipping out on their appointment.


    Previously, Ange had regretted her actions after haphazardly agreeing to Fang Qin''s invitation on WeChat. As a result, she didn''t manage to get a good sleep the entire night. When she woke up to a message notification the next day and saw Fang Qin''s message, she chose to back out almost immediately. Hence, she made up a random excuse to skip their appointment.


    Ange knew that it was rude to cancel an appointment at thest minute. Hence, after she sent out the message, guilt started eating away at her heart. She initially thought the other party would call to question her. However, even after a long time had passed, her phone remained silent.


    It had already been close to ten days since theyst contacted each other, so Ange gradually began forgetting about that incident. To give herself some peace of mind, she made up an excuse, thinking, <em>That person is only a passerby in my life. If she''s gone, she''s gone. There''s nothing much to it.</em>


    However, when Ange met Fang Qin again today, she realized that she still felt guilty over the matter. Her guilt was further exacerbated when she told two consecutive lies, yet Fang Qin showed not even a shred of suspicion.


    The restaurant they dined at served in water for free. Before the food had even arrived, Ange had already drunk two cups. When she was about to pour herself a third cup, she heard Fang Qin saying, "How are you going to eat if you drink so much water now?"


    Despite being partially full already, Ange pretended to be okay, saying, "I have a big appetite."


    Fang Qin scrutinized Ange''s body. Then, she said, "But I remember that you hardly ate anything thest time we dined together."


    "..." A drop of residue water hit the back of Ange''s hand. Pretending to be calm, Ange said, "I didn''t have much of an appetitest time because of my cold."


    "Was the cold medicine useful?"


    Upon hearing this question, Ange recalled that Fang Qin had previously bought medicine for her and that half of the medicine remained in her house. Then, she blinked her eyes and said, "...It was quite useful."

 Chapter 85: Pt.2

    Chapter 85: Pt.2


    Although Ange thought of making small talk with Fang Qin while waiting for the food to arrive, she quickly dismissed the thought as she found it too embarrassing to do so. Instead, she lowered her head and fiddled with her phone. When she unlocked her phone, though, she saw that she had an unread message on QQ, so she clicked on it.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "The girl you introduced me to draws so quickly! She finished drawing what I asked in just two days! [Image][Image]"


    Ange: "Not bad. The chibi versions look quite good. What are the objects next to them, though?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "It''s an overturned jar of vinegar. There''s even the word ''Vinegar'' written on it. Don''t you see it?"[1]


    At Xu Chuanchuan''s mention, Ange also noticed the word on the jar. Then, she absent-mindedly replied: "I see it now. Why did you have her draw this?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Just for fun."


    "..." Ange failed to get the point at all.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Did you just wake up?"


    Ange: "I woke up long ago. I''m just about to have lunch."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Oh, in that case, you can go eat first."


    Ange looked up and noticed that the person seated across her was also ying with her phone. There was no visualmunication or verbalmunication. In such an awkward atmosphere, just how were they supposed to enjoy their meal?


    Then, a thoughting to her mind, Ange quickly typed out a question: "Let me ask you something. I''m currently dining with someone who is practically a stranger to me. What should I talk about in such a situation?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Just talk casually."


    Ange: "...Forget I ever asked."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Since the other party is a stranger, why are you dining with them? This isn''t like you. Don''t tell me your family forced you into a blind date with a man???"


    One of the disadvantages of conversing with a novel author was that casual conversation could lead to a huge misunderstanding because of the other party''s extraordinary imagination.


    Ange could thoroughly understand how her friend came to such a conclusion. However, she also couldn''t help but be frustrated by this situation. "It''s not a blind date. [Sweat] Whatever, just forget I ever asked and go back to your Murong."


    On the other side, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be confused as she looked at her phone.


    <em>Did I say something wrong? Why does Ange sound a little irritable today?</em> Xu Chuanchuan wondered.


    Meanwhile, after feeding the fish, Murong Shi saw Xu Chuanchuan''s dazed look, so she asked, "What are you thinking about?"


    "It''s nothing." Xu Chuanchuan shrugged. "What ''s that in your hand?"


    There was a gray bag that looked a little dirty in Murong Shi''s left hand. Holding up the bag for Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "It''s a delivery for you."


    "It arrived so quickly?!" Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes lit up, and she extended a hand to grab the bag.


    However, Murong Shi moved the package out of the way and asked, "What did you buy?"


    While giggling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s that ck cat costume I told you about. It''s very sexy, and I promise you''ll look good in it."


    "You actually bought it?" Murong Shi asked, feeling slightly surprised.


    Xu Chuanchuan snatched the package away while Murong Shi''s attentionpsed. Then, she swiftly tore open the package and took out the clothing inside. "My god"


    This could no longer be considered clothing. The top part of the costume was basically just two patches of fabric connected by a few straps. As for the bottom part, it was even simpler: it was basically a thong.


    The costume in front of her waspletely different from the one she saw online. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be baffled as she realized that she had spent nearly 100 yuan for just three pieces of palm-sized loincloth. "Did I buy the wrong one?"


    "Refund it, then," Murong Shi urged.


    <em>Refund? Dream on. </em>Xu Chuanchuan inwardly sneered at Murong Shi''s attempt.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan felt deceived, after thinking it over again, she realized that the less fabric there was, the sexier the costume would be. Then, seemingly gaining x-ray vision, Xu Chuanchuan began fearlessly scrutinizing Murong Shi from top to bottom while joyfully saying, "I can''t wait to see how you look like wearing this. It''ll be spectacr."


    After wiping the drool leaking out of her lover''s mouth, Murong Shi calmly asked, "Do you really want to see me wearing it that badly?"


    Xu Chuanchuan frankly nodded.


    "Don''t tell me you''re thinking of having me wear it tonight?"


    "Tonight is no good. I haven''t washed it yet," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, with unsuppressed excitement in her eyes, she continued, "It''ll be more interesting if you wear it on your birthday."


    "How will that be interesting?"


    "You''ve never dressed like this for your birthday, right?"


    The corners of Murong Shi''s mouth twitched when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s question. Then, she stated, "I''ve always celebrated my birthday with my parents in the past."


    "See?" In a solemn tone, Xu Chuanchuan said, "This is going to be the first time you wear such a sexy dress for your birthday. It''ll be a significant event!"


    Murong Shi pondered for a moment before touching the two-piece costume. Then, wearing aplicated expression, she said, "There''s fur on these."


    "Cats have fur, so, of course, these things have it as well," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she pulled out two more items from the stic bag and enthusiastically said, "Not only that, but cats also have ears and a tail~"


    "..." Murong Shi got goosebumps all over when she saw the furry ears and tail. While resisting her difort, she gently scratched Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with a finger and revealed an inexplicable smile as she said, "Since you like it so much, I''ll fulfill your wish."


    "I''ll go wash them first." Xu Chuanchuan happily ran out of her room. However, she suddenly felt that something was amiss.


    <em>If Murong detests furry things so much, why would shepromise so easily? Moreover, the way she scratched my chin just now was as if she was teasing a cat!</em>


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more horrified she became. So, she ran back to the room and asked, "Don''t tell me you''re thinking of making me wear it?"


    In response, Murong Shi gently rubbed Xu Chuanchuan''s head and put on a gentle smile, saying, "If I say I will wear it, then I will wear it."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt relieved after hearing these words.


    ...


    There were only a few days left until Murong Shi''s birthday, so Xu Chuanchuan asked her if she wanted to invite some friends over to celebrate.


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "My family usually celebrates my lunar birthday instead, so we can invite Little Yan, Xiangxiang, and Fang Qin for that asion. As for the sr one, we can spend it by ourselves."


    This was a good idea. If it was only the two of them, then it would be more convenient for Murong Shi to wear that cat costume.


    "Look at that lecherous smile of yours. Are you nning something naughty again?" Murong Shi said, gently pulling on Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks.


    Xu Chuanchuan naturally wouldn''t tell Murong Shi the wonderful fantasies she was having. Afterward, she retracted her smile and changed the topic, saying, "They should be dry now. I''ll go collect them."


    Murong Shi also stood up and followed after Xu Chuanchuan.


    Noticing Murong Shi''s actions, Xu Chuanchuan turned around and asked, "Why are you following me?"


    "Can you reach them?" Murong Shi nonchntly asked.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan looked at her short and small hands. "..."


    ...


    Xu Chuanchuan faced a lot of pressure writing without any backlog to rely on. She had to rush her writing every night, so Murong Shi became responsible for household chores.


    However, Murong Shi disliked doing chores, so she bought a cleaning robot and let it slowly move about in the room. While the robot was vacuuming the floor, she would use this time to take a shower.


    Because of her bad back, Xu Chuanchuan stood up to move around after writing for an hour. When she saw the round robot stuck in the gap between the wardrobe and the dressing table, she walked over to "rescue" it from its predicament.


    Afterward, the cleaning robot continued to work diligently. Xu Chuanchuan nned to rest for ten minutes, so sheid down on the bed and did some stretches. While doing so, she caught a glimpse of a shing lighting from her charging phone, so she walked over and unlocked it.


    Ange: "I''m annoyed."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What''s annoying you?"


    Ange: "I don''t want to write, I don''t want to move, I don''t want to do anything."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Ditto!"


    Ange: "Are you done writing? Chat with me for a while if you''re done."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Not yet; I''m just halfway done."


    Ange: "Nevermind, then. Continue with your work."


    Recalling the previous conversation they had, Xu Chuanchuan felt that Ange had been behaving strangely recently. "Ange, did something happen to you recently?"


    Ange: "Nothing. I''m just feeling annoyed."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Is it writer''s block? Is the cake business not going well? Is your period here? Or...are you thinking about love?"


    After waiting for several minutes...


    Ange: "I''m fine now. Just go back to your writing."


    <em>Just like that???</em>


    Fang Qin only remembered about her little cuties two days after returning from her business trip. So, she invited Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan out for lunch and exchanged their goods at the restaurant.


    Holding up the fish tank, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I just changed the water yesterday. We also fed them every day. Don''t you feel that they''ve grown bigger?"


    There was no way thumb-sized fish could growrger in just a few days. However, Fang Qin tactfully smiled and said, "Mhm, they did. Thank you."


    "You''re wee, you''re wee."


    "Here, I bought these for you," Fang Qin said as she handed the souvenir she bought.


    "What''s this? Walnut cakes?"


    "Mhm. I bought some for you since you seem to like them," Fang Qin said, smiling.


    Xu Chuanchuan did not doubt Fang Qin''s words. Her stomach also grumbled when she saw the walnut cakes, so she eagerly opened a box to share them with everyone.


    Fang Qin politely refused.


    Murong Shi didn''t take any, either. Instead, she looked at the person seated across her and asked, "Did you go to Shanghai again?"


    Fang Qin''s smile stiffened. Then, looking at Murong Shi as if she were looking at a ghost, she asked, "How did you know?!"


    While chewing on a walnut cake, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Everyone knows about it. You shared your address on your WeChat Moments."


    "..." Fang Qin had forgotten about that detail.


    Locking her eyes on Fang Qin''s face, Murong SHi asked, "Yourplexion looks ruddy today."


    Rolling her eyes, Fang Qin said, "I put on makeup, alright?"


    "You seem to be in a good mood as well. Did you have a happy encounter recently?" Murong Shi casually asked.


    Fang Qin, however, grew wary. After letting her eyes wander a bit, she said, "Does getting a pay raise count?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "Since you got a raise, this meal is on you."


    "No problem."


    Partway through the meal, Murong Shi went to the restroom by herself. Seeing this, Fang Qin switched seats and sat beside Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she said, "Chuanchuan, I want to ask you something."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks were currently stuffed with food. Looking at Fang Qin with a confused look, she asked, "What''s the matter?"


    After looking around, Fang Qin leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and whispered, "It''s about Tang Xin..."


    TL Notes:


    [1]vinegar: In Chinese, the character (c, vinegar) is part of the term (ch c, jealousy). So, vinegar is often used to represent a person''s jealousy.

 Chapter 86: Pt.1

    Chapter 86: Pt.1


    It took a moment for Xu Chuanchuan to realize that the "Tang Xin" Fang Qin spoke of was Ange. Then, she gulped down in her mouth and eximed, "You''re still in contact with her?!"


    Fang Qin''s face heated up a little when subjected to Xu Chuanchuan''s glowing eyes. Then, she said, "I identally came across her during my business trip."


    "This means you two are destined for each other! Shanghai is such a big ce, yet you two still managed to meet each other!" Xu Chuanchuan said in excitement.


    Fang Qin''s face grew even hotter. After clearing her throat, she said, "To be precisewe met when I passed by her shop and went in to buy things."


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at the box of walnut cakes on the table and asked, "Did you buy these from Ange''s shop?"


    "An-what?"


    "Uh, I mean Tang Xin," Xu Chuanchuan quickly corrected herself when she realized her mistake. "Did you deliberately visit her shop to buy these?"


    A hint of embarrassment appeared on Fang Qin''s face when she heard the word "deliberately," but she still nodded her head.


    Xu Chuanchuan widened her eyes as she realized something. "Don''t tell me you"


    "Don''t look at me like that." Fang Qin turned her head away.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan smacked the table and said, "But I''m anxious!"


    "What are you anxious about?"


    Xu Chuanchuan grabbed a napkin and wiped her mouth. Then, she rapidly said, "The two of you are single and are our best friends. Murong and I both hope that you and Tang Xin can end up together!"


    "Is that so?" With a somewhat absent-minded look, Fang Qin said, "But Tang Xin, she"


    "Hm?"


    Then, putting on a solemn expression, Fang Qin said, "After I returned from my business trip, we sometimes chat on WeChat, but I feel like she is being very cold. I am always the one who initiates our conversations, and she usually takes a long time to reply. Even her replies are mostly superficial. So, I think that she probably doesn''t have any feelings for me."


    "So, can I take it that you have feelings for her?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    Fang Qin blushed slightly before revealing a restrained smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly understood Fang Qin''s reaction, and she couldn''t help but chuckle. Then, she said, "All is good so long as you have feelings for her. So long as you have feelings, then you will have hope."


    Shrugging, Fang Qin said, "I can''t even have a proper conversation with her. What hope is there?"


    "When do you normally contact her?"


    "At night."


    "No wonder." Realization dawned upon Xu Chuanchuna. Then, she said, "She''s living by American time. She normally only wakes up in the afternoon and starts working at night. She might have been busy during the times you looked for her."


    "Isn''t she unemployed right now?" Fang Qin asked in surprise.


    "Uh, she lied to you."


    "She lied to me?" A slight frown formed on Fang Qin''s face. Then, unable to hold back her curiosity, she asked, "What does she work as?"


    "This" Xu Chuanchuan hesitated on whether to tell Fang Qin the truth.


    Coincidentally, Murong Shi returned at this time. Looking at the person who had upied her seat, she tly asked, "What are you sitting here for?"


    In response, Fang Qin wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders. She even stuck her face close to Xu Chuanchuan''s before sending a provocative nce to Murong Shi, saying, "I like Chuanchuan, so can''t I be closer to her?"


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes.


    Xu Chuanchuan pushed Fang Qin away without hesitation. Before a certain jealous bug began acting up again, she hurriedly said, "Fang Qin is joking. The one she likes is Tang Xin."


    Tang Xin?" Murong Shi wasn''t a stranger to this name. However, when she heard the word "like," she couldn''t help but be a little surprised. "So, you went to Shanghai this time to look for her?"


    As if she had just won the lottery, Xu Chuanchuan excitedly answered on Fang Qin''s behalf, "She should''ve gone to Shanghai for a business trip and visited Tang Xin while she is there. Am I right, Fang Qin?"


    "..." Fang Qin silently stood up and returned to her seat.


    Meanwhile, after Murong Shi reimed her seat, she looked at the person across from her with interest and asked, "Did you fall in love with her on your first meeting? Love at first sight?"


    Fang Qin might be able to speak carefreely with Xu Chuanchuan, but she couldn''t bring herself to do so in front of Murong Shi. So, she picked up her chopsticks and said, "The food is getting cold. Let''s eat, let''s eat."


    Seeing this, Murong Shi turned to Xu Chuanchuan and jokingly said, "The sun must''ve risen from the west today. This person actually knows how to feel shy."


    Giggling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Don''t be shy, Fang Qin. If you have a problem, just say it. We can help you solve it together."


    "Alright, alright." Fang Qin quickly caved to the pressure. After cing down her chopsticks and letting out a long sigh, she asked, "I already told you my problem. How do you n on helping me solve it?"


    "What problem?" Murong Shi asked.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan leaned into Murong Shi''s ear and whispered, "Fang Qin feels that she doesn''t have anything inmon with Ange to talk about. I''m currently thinking of whether to tell her about Ange''s real identity."


    "It''s nothing hical, so why can''t you say it?"


    "That might be true, but" Xu Chuanchuan knitted her brows.


    Xu Chuanchuan found it difficult to exin to Murong Shi that web novel authors like she and Ange generally did not wish people in the real world to know about their job. Even though it wasn''t an hical job, an author having their real identity exposed was akin to being caught naked.


    Looking Xu Chuanchuan in the eye, Murong Shi asked, "Don''t you wish to see them together?"


    "Of course I wish to!"


    "Fang Qin is utterly ignorant about Tang Xin. Unless they''re standing on the same ying field, there''s no hope of a rtionship forming at all."


    Murong Shi''s words silenced Xu Chuanchuan. This was indeed a serious problem, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but hesitate. "Then"


    "What are you two whispering to each other about?" Fang Qin interrupted after getting ignored for some time.


    Probably growing impatient from Xu Chuanchuan''s hesitation, Murong Shi said, "I''ll say it, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan flinched.


    "Say what?" Fang Qin asked in confusion.


    Without any foreshadowing, Murong Shi got straight to the point and said, "Tang Xin is a novel author. If you really wish to pursue her, you might need to expend some effort."


    "Novel...author?" Fang Qin carefully pondered over these two words. Then, shock appeared in her eyes as she muttered, "She''s that amazing?"


    Murong Shi smirked. Then, she wrapped an arm around the person beside her and delightfully said, "This person in front of you is a novel author as well."


    "No, no, no, I''m no author. Ange is the author," Xu Chuanchuan said, hurriedly waving her hands.


    "You too?" Fang Qin looked at Xu Chuanchuan in astonishment.


    Now that Murong Shi had exposed the crucial point, Xu Chuanchuan felt that there was no meaning in keeping her mouth shut. So, after sorting out her thoughts, she said, "Tang Xin''s pen name is Ange, and she is indeed amazing. Actually, she isn''t my university ssmate. I met her through writing web novels. However, I''m a noob, while she is a god. Almost every book Ange wrote has received physical publication. She even sold the film rights to five of her books. One of her books named <em>End of The World</em> will air as a TV drama soon."


    Xu Chuanchuan spoke as if she was counting treasures as she mentioned her good friend''s achievements. She revealed everything in one breath, her enthusiasm causing the two other people at the table to revealplicated expressions.


    Murong Shi handed a bowl of soup to Xu Chuanchuan. Then, in a slightly unhappy tone, she said, "Nobody''s rushing you, so why are you speaking in such a hurry?"


    Fang Qin took a long while to process this astonishing information. Then, she muttered, "This is really unexpected."


    Now that there was an opportunity to match her two close friends together, Xu Chuanchuan spared no effort as she continued, "Ange is a full-time writer, and most of her life is spent around novels. If you want to find amon topic with her, you might have to start from this aspect."


    Fang Qin absent-mindedly ate some food. After pondering in silence for some time, she said, "But wouldn''t it seem strange if I suddenly talk to her about these things?"


    "This" Fang Qin''s question stumped xu Chuanchua. When she imagined someone other than Murong Shi talking with her about novels, she found that she was against the idea. As to how Ange would feel about such a situation, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t say for certain. After all, she didn''t know exactly how Ange felt about Fang Qin right now.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but bite her spoon in frustration. She had initially thought that everything would be solved once she revealed Ange''s identity to Fang Qin. Unfortunately, that was not the case at all.


    After the meal, the group split up and returned to their respective homes.


    Unable to hold back her gossiping heart, Xu Chuanchuan logged into QQ. She thought to seek out Ange and ask what her friend thought of Fang Qin. However, when she logged into QQ, she found that Ange had sent her a message half an hour ago.


    Ange: "You unlucky child. You got called out again. [Link]"


    <em>What''s going on?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly clicked the link and got redirected to a pink-colored forum.


    "Clear Water" was jjwxc''s anonymous forum for authors. It was generally a ce for authors to discuss various issues rted to writing. However, while the forum was indeed created for authors, many readers were also lurking in it.


    The forum was generally very peaceful. However, when drama between authors urred, many people would emerge to join in on the fun.


    Xu Chuanchuan still remembered that someone had called her out on Clear Water some months ago for making donations to herself. However, before she could even see the post, the forum moderators had already removed the post due to the user providing insufficient evidence.


    <em>This should be the second time already, right?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t understand how she managed to offend anyone even though she had been keeping to herself throughout her entire writing career. When she looked at the post and saw her pen name is written in the title, she couldn''t help but be shocked.


    This is for real this time! Yuri author, I Love Mtang, is making donations to herself! Evidence included!


    The main post was lengthy, and it contained both texts and images. After reading through it, Xu Chuanchuan roughly understood why she was being used.


    Everything began with "Passerby Shi" donating 33 Deep-water Torpedoes to her new work.


    Indeed, Murong Shi had donated <em>that </em>many.


    Xu Chuanchuan had written about "Passerby Shi" making donations to her in her new story. Meanwhile, whenever such instances came up, Murong Shi would send a Deep-water Torpedo. Although Xu Chuanchuan had tried stopping her, Murong Shi had righteously responded by saying, "Apart from being your girlfriend, I am also your reader. I have the right to donate to the author I like."


    It was a twisted logic, and Xu Chuanchuan had no words to counter.


    Making donations to oneself on jjwxc was not against the tform''s rules. In fact, many authors would do so to gain more exposure.


    Meanwhile, the reason why the user this time was so certain that Xu Chuanchuan was making donations to herself was because the users "Passerby Shi" and "I Love Mtang" had the same IP address. The user even had images to prove it.


    One of the post''s paragraphs was as followed: "[Image]This is a screenshot of the group''s conversation. This person named Passerby Shi says she is I Love Mtang''s girlfriend, but I Love Mtang never showed herself in the group throughout this process. Even when I Love Mtang''s readers ask her about her girlfriend in thement section, the author refuses to reply at all. That''s because she is feeling guilty, right? Also, didn''t the author repeatedly emphasize that she is straight? Can a person get bent so easily? I doubt that."


    <em>This person even has my group''s conversation record. Did they sneak into my reader group?</em> Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be astonished reading up to this point.

 Chapter 86: Pt.2

    Chapter 86: Pt.2


    In the end, the user concluded by saying: "jjwxc might not care about the self-donation, but using this way of tricking readers and refusing to admit it is simply disgusting. This author even created a fictional tycoon girlfriend to sell her new work."


    The forum post received all sorts of replies, with some people stating that the thread starter had ulterior motives for joining Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group. However, most of the people viewing this post were merely spectators who were utterly clueless about the situation, so they simply sided with the thread starter since substantial evidence was provided. After all, both Passerby Shi and I Love Mtang had the same IP address, and it wasn''t easy to refute such a fact.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially already felt a little carsick. After reading this post, she grew even dizzier. She didn''t even hear Murong Shi telling her to stop using her phone and simply continued scrolling down the post in a daze.


    #27: "How do you know if the other party isn''t the author''s girlfriend? Is it strange for someone to live together with their girlfriend? If they''re living together, it''s only natural for them to share the same IP address. And what''s wrong with someone giving donations to their girlfriend? From how I see it, this thread starter is just jealous."


    #28: "A whitewasher is here. #27, you''re probably the author''s friend or sub-ount, right?"


    #35: "I''ve read this author''s work before, and her sweet romances are nice. I''m not in her reader group, but I often see her emphasizing that she will never bend in the author''s note, so reading hertest work feels kind of strange. How did she suddenly find herself a tycoon girlfriend? This whole situation feels strange, so I''m not going to take sides for now."


    #36: "I don''t read yuri~ I''m just here for the fun~"


    #123: "This author used to receive very little donations. Only after Passerby Shi appeared did her donations start increasing. This tycoon has only ever donated to the author and the author''s good friend Ange from what I found. Are there any experts here who can check Passerby Shi''s IP address when donating in the past?


    #222: "The evidence is here! [Image][Image][Image] I spent two hours going through all of the author''s novels. Passerby Shi''s past IP addresses are indeed different from the author''s, but all three of her IP addresses are located in the same district as the author."


    #223: "#222 Amazing! So, they''ve been living in the same district since before? Could the author have asked one of her rtives to donate to her to avoid getting caught?"


    #224: "Now that both IDs are using the same IP address, does this mean the author isn''t afraid of getting caught anymore?"


    #330: "The people in this thread are geniuses. When they have different IP addresses, you say that they''re friends or family. When they have the same IP, you say that the author is using multiple ounts"


    #400: "I can''t figure out why the author would want to do such a thing. Her books'' statistics are quite good. Is there a need to waste money like this?"


    #401: "Isn''t that simple? To gain attention and show off, of course."


    #402: "But apart from showing off, there are no other benefits. Is there a need to go so far?"


    #405: "No other benefits? Hertest book is already being rmended on the front page. Just look at how many bookmarks the book has already. She should be earning at least a thousand a day, right? With how much she''s raking in, she won''t have to worry about losing money."


    #513: "I''ve seen enough. I''m going to reduce the points of this disgusting author."


    #514: "#513, that''s going too far. Even if the author is spending money to donate to herself, she has done nothing excessive."


    #520: "Is lying to readers not excessive?"


    #521: "That''s right! She used her donations to trick her readers and gained so much attention! This is an injustice to the authors underneath her!"


    #533: "Come,e,e! I have over 500 Moonstones saved up! Let''s band together and reduce the author''s points!"


    <em>Reduce my points???</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan jolted.


    There were well over a thousand replies to the post by now, but Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t in the mood to continue reading. Hurriedly, she switched to jjwxc''s reading application and clicked into her novel details. When she saw the long list of point reduction notifications in herment section, she nearly fainted out of anger.


    Murong Shi thought Xu Chuanchuan was suffering from motion sickness, so she sternly said, "I told you not to use your phone."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not respond.


    Hearing no reply, Murong Shi took a nce at Xu Chuanchuan. Seeing that her lover looked unwell, she hurriedly stopped the car in an empty space. Then, she asked, "Do you feel like puking?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face was as white as a sheet of paper, and her lips trembled as she said, "I''m fine."


    "What''s the matter?" Murong Shi asked as she ced a hand on Xu Chuanchuan''s forehead.


    "I''m really fine," Xu Chuanchuan said as she grabbed onto Murong Shi''s hand. Then, she shut her eyes and took a few deep breaths before saying, "I''m just a little angry."


    Frowning, Murong Shi asked, "What happened?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was unable to calm her emotions even after a long time had passed. Afraid that she couldn''t convey the situation clearly, she let Murong Shi read the forum post herself instead.


    Murong Shi quickly read through the post, and the more she read, the darker herplexion became. Her frown also became deeper and deeper. When she was finished reading, she asked, "How does this even constitute evidence? Isn''t this just nder?"


    Xu Chuanchuan weakly nodded. When she took her phone back, she just so happened to receive a message from Ange.


    Ange: "I found the person who called you out."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Who?"


    Ange: "Fragrant Citrus."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How do you know it''s her?"


    Ange: "Although users can make posts anonymously on the forum, they still need to register using a valid author ID. So, the moderators can check who is making the posts."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "So, you asked the moderators???"


    Ange: "Mhm. Anyone who is so familiar with the donation system should be an author. I know you didn''t donate to yourself, so I helped you ask a moderator about it. The moderator told me that the ount that made that post is one of Ange''s author sub-ounts. However, the author didn''t tell me the sub-ount''s ID."


    Xu Chuanchuan was shocked. She couldn''t believe that Fragrant Citrus was the one ndering her.


    <em>Is this person a mad dog? Why must she keep on targeting me?</em>


    In the past, Fragrant Citrus had cursed Xu Chuanchuan on Weibo and even used a sub-ount to give Xu Chuanchuan a bunch of point reductions. However, at the time, that was because Fragrant Citrus had mistakenly thought that Xu Chuanchuan had stolen Ange away from her.


    As a top-ranking author, Ange had an excellent rtionship with the tform''s moderators. So, Xu Chuanchuan did not doubt that the information Ange received from the moderator was true. However, she truly couldn''t figure out what motives Fragrant Citrus had for doing such a thing.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Why is she ndering me this time?"


    Ange: "Who knows? Maybe she''s just vengeful. Or maybe she has a twisted heart and is just out to mess with you."


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless.


    Seeing the many spectators fanning the mes and giving her point reductions for absurd reasons, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be infuriated. When she thought to step forward and clear her name, Ange stopped her, saying: "You best not participate in this farce. Otherwise, the situation will just get muddier and muddier."


    Aside from Ange, even a tform moderator had personally messaged Xu Chuanchuan telling her to stay calm and focus on her work instead of participating in this muddy affair. Seeing the moderator''s message, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel frustrated. The moderators might not like authors being at each other''s throats, but how could she possibly stomach this grievance?


    By now, amotion had already arisen in Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group as well. However, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t in the mood to care.


    At this time, Murong Shi held Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and said, "Let''s go back first."


    After arriving back home, the first thing Xu Chuanchuan did was to open up herputer to start working. However, Murong Shi stopped her and said, "Don''t force yourself if you don''t want to write."


    "I need to write tonight''s update," Xu Chuanchuan firmly said. If she were to stop updating all of a sudden, the people ndering her would definitely say that she was feeling guilty.


    After taking a long look at her lover, Murong Shi said, "Good luck."


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan began typing away at herputer. In the meantime, Murong Shi sat on the bed and began typing out a message on her phone.


    Passerby Shi: "Your Lord is very stingy. She wouldn''t be willing to waste so much money on herself. She also doesn''t have the time to mess with such things. That person on the forums is just deliberately ndering her. Everyone, don''t believe the post."


    Darling Shi, you''ve finally shown up! Seeing Lord getting ndered makes me so angry!


    Even an idiot can tell it''s nder, yet those fools actually reduced Lord''s points. They''re going too far. Is the tform''s management not caring about this?


    I''ll replenish Lord''s points!


    I''m going, too!


    I Love Hotpot: "Hello, everyone. I''m Ange. Your Lord has not lied to anyone. She even visited me in Shanghai with her girlfriend on National Day."


    What??? You''re Lord Ange??? I always thought you were just a part-timer in the group!


    Ahhh! I didn''t think it would be you, Lord Ange!!!


    After sending the message to Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group, Ange also made a post on Weibo supporting Xu Chuanchuan. Then, after giving the matter some thought, she looked up the user "Sweet Fragrant Citrus."


    That was Fragrant Citrus''s Weibo ount.


    Ange: "I know it is your doing. Enough is enough. You best apologize to Tang''er in your post. It won''t serve you any good if this picture gets out. [Image]"


    The image was a screenshot of Ange''s conversation with one of the forum moderators, and the moderator clearly stated that the thread starter was Fragrant Citrus''s sub-ount.


    Several minutester


    Sweet Fragrant Citrus: "Whatever. I''m not writing anymore in the future anyway."


    Ange gnashed her teeth in anger when she saw this message.


    Xu Chuanchuan spent two hourspleting her daily quota and uploaded the chapter right before 9 PM. Once she scheduled the chapter''s release, exhaustion quickly took over her body.


    "Are you done?" Murong Shi''s voice came from behind Xu Chuanchuan. "Come here; I have something to show you."


    "What is it?"


    Murong Shi showed her phone''s screen to Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "Does this woman look familiar to you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan took a careful look at the screen. "Isn''t this that dance streamer...Sweet Melon? What are you looking at her for?"


    Then, Murong Shi pointed at the watermark located on the image''s bottom-right and said, "Tang Xin says that this is Fragrant Citrus''s Weibo ID."


    "Fragrant Citrus?!" At Murong Shi''s reminder, Xu Chuanchuan took a closer look at the watermark. Although the watermark was somewhat blurry, she still managed to see the words "Fragrant Citrus."


    "Fragrant Citrus is Sweet Melon. What a coincidence, right?" Murong Shi said, sneering.

 Chapter 87: Pt.1

    Chapter 87: Pt.1


    Only after seeing someone in the reader group mentioning Ange showing support to Xu Chuanchuan on Weibo did Murong Shi remember her Weibo ount that she had long neglected. So, she decided to log into Weibo, searched for Ange''s post, liked it, and shared it. Then, Murong Shi privately messaged Ange, thanking the other party. While doing so, she also asked about Fragrant Citrus''s Weibo ount.


    "I initially nned to give her a warning, but I found her avatar to be quite familiar, so I clicked into her profile and browsed through it. I didn''t think she would also be an inte celebrity," Murong Shi said. Then, while massaging her slightly tired eyes, she asked, "What exactly is her job?"


    "She mainly works as a dance streamer, but she also writes novels when she''s bored."


    "Doesn''t this mean there is basically no conflict of interest between you two? Why is she even ndering you?"


    This topic involved a past grudge, so Xu Chuanchuan spent some time patiently exining the whole backstory to Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi earnestly listened to the story. However, when she heard that Fragrant Citrus had mistaken Xu Chuanchuan as a third party, she couldn''t help but frown in displeasure.


    After taking a moment to catch her breath, Xu Chuanchuan continued, "I didn''t have any feelings toward women at the time, yet she adamantly insists that I ruined her rtionship with Ange. She refused to listen no matter how I exined myself. She''s simply delusional and paranoid."


    "..." Murong Shi felt as if she had taken a bullet to the chest.


    Murong Shi grabbed Murong Shi''s phone and looked through Fragrant Citrus''s Weibo. Then, she found that Fragrant Citrus''s Weibo hadn''t had any activity for half a year already. She also recalled that Fragrant Citrus''s ongoing novel had gone on a hiatus and lost its mization already. Piecing these two pieces of information together, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder if the other party had decided to focus on streaming instead.


    Xu Chuanchuan remembered Xu Xiangxiang had previously told her that Jiang Shaohua had poached Sweet Melon from another broadcasting tform. In other words, Sweet Melon wasn''t a new streamer, and this added one more point that linked Sweet Melon and Fragrant Citrus together.


    Xu Chuanchuan had seen Sweet Melon''s picture once before, and she had felt a strong sense of familiarity at the time. Unfortunately, she didn''t manage to recall where she had seen the other party before.


    <em>Could Sweet Melon and Fragrant Citrus be the same person?</em>


    After taking a closer look at the pictures, Xu Chuanchuan found a slight difference between the two. To be precise, Fragrant Citrus''s expressions in the selfies she had posted on Weibo didn''t look as stiff as the expressions shown in Sweet Melon''s selfies.


    To avoid any possible misunderstandings, Xu Chuanchuan sent a few pictures of Fragrant Citrus to Xu Xiangxiang and asked, "Is this that Sweet Melon you talked aboutst time?"


    Xu Xiangxiang quickly replied and said, "That''s right. Where did you get so many pictures of her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Is she still working as a streamer now?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "She streams every night. Don''t tell me you''re nning to watch her dance?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have the patience to exin the whole situation to her little sister. After throwing some bribes to keep her little sister quiet, she put down her phone and looked at Murong Shi, saying, "They''re the same person."


    However, this situation confused Xu Chuanchuan even more. Since Fragrant Citrus had decided to focus on streaming, why would the other party go out of her way to keep an eye on her novels and nder her?


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi sneered and said, "Xiangxiang is right. This woman is indeed quite capable."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan was still a little dazed over the fact that Fragrant Citrus was Sweet Melon, so she failed to keep up with Murong Shi''s rhythm.


    "Since we know she''s the culprit, that makes things easy," Murong Shi said before embracing Xu Chuanchuan and kissing her lover''s pursed lips. "Stop looking at that post. Ignore thement section as well and focus on your work."


    There was no way Xu Chuanchuan could simply forget about being ndered and given a bunch of point reductions. However, Murong Shi''s words still seeded in consoling Xu Chuanchuan and relieving her frustration a little.


    After this, Xu Chuanchuan stopped paying attention to the ndering post. And while there would still be peopleing to give her point reductions from time to time, her passionate readers quickly filled in the gap by leaving positive reviews and point additions.


    In addition, Xu Chuanchuan surprisingly found that her new book''s ie for the past two days had increased by a substantial amount. After thinking over the situation, she felt that it might be because of the ndering post on Clear Water providing her with a certain degree of promotion.


    <em>Is this a blessing in disguise?</em>


    When Xu Chuanchuan shared this surprising news with Ange, Ange said: "Citrus probably never thought that her nder would end up helping you instead."


    Following Ange''s Weibo post clearing up her name, Xu Chuanchuan also made a post of her own exining her rtionship with "Passerby Shi."


    In her post, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Both ''Passerby Shi'' and ''I Love Chuanchuan'' are my girlfriend''s reader ounts. She began following my works around April. We still haven''t gotten together at that time, and only around June did we confirm our rtionship. At this point, we have been dating for five months already. Our IP addresses are located in the same district previously because we live in the same district. Oh, by the way, she is also my boss in real life. Later on, our IP addresses became the same because we started living together. I''m not proficient at creating drama, and I only wish to write my novels in peace. The wise man knows he knows nothing, the fool thinks he knows all. I don''t think I have to exin anything else. Thank you, everyone!"


    There were a lot of spectators keeping an eye on this drama for the past few days. Shortly after Xu Chuanchuan published her Weibo post, she received a lot of replies.


    I knew it! Lord, your new work really is a story between you and Darling Shi!


    I''ve been following your works since you started writing yuri, so I know you''re a hardworking author who dislikes causing drama. I never thought there would be someone who would stoop so low as to nder you. Jealousy really is a scary thing.


    Lord, I''ll give you hugs! Also, I hope you and Tycoon Shi will have a happy life!


    I support you, Lord! Ignore the haters and just focus on your work! I''ll be waiting for your updates every day!


    Not only are you writing yuri, but you even managed to get yourself a girlfriend. I''m dying from envy.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt gratified when she saw the replies.


    Xu Chuanchuan was currently on a toilet break, so she didn''t have time to read through all the replies. After turning off her phone and exiting the stall, she came across Linda washing her hands. Then, she joyfully asked, "You who returned so soon?"


    "Return?" Linda was confused. "But I never left thepany?"


    There was no one else in the restroom. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan still spoke in a whisper, asking, "Did you not go out together with Murong?"


    "No," Linda said, turning on the faucet and washing off the soap bubbles on her hands. Then, she continued, "Miss Murong says she has some private affairs to deal with, and she told me not to follow her."


    Xu Chuanchuan had received a call from Murong Shi around four o''clock, and thetter said that she was leaving thepany for some business. So, Xu Chuanchuan assumed Murong Shi was busy withpany affairs.


    While making her way back to her office, Xu Chuanchuan messaged Murong Shi on WeChat and asked thetter what she was doing. However, Murong Shi mysteriously replied: "I''ll tell you once I''m back."


    After putting down her phone, Murong Shi turned the steering wheel and drove her car towards a high-end office building.


    Bright Grid Real Estate Corporation Limited.


    Murong Shi was very familiar with this ce. She walked into the lobby with the scorching sun over her head, her tall figure instantly attracting the attention of many people.


    When the receptionist saw someone entering the building, she followed procedure and stood up to greet the new arrival. "Hello, wee to Bright Grid Real Estate. May I know ifHuh? Miss Murong?"


    Although Murong Shi had not returned to thepany for over half a year now, the receptionist remained unchanged. So, she walked forward and greeted, "You look skinnier than before."


    The receptionist blushed in embarrassment. Then, she said, "Actually, my weight is still the same as before Miss Murong, you are still as beautiful as before. By the way, have you decided toe back?"


    Murong Shi chuckled. Then, she casually said, "I''m here to look for Jiang Shaohua."


    "Y-Young Master Jiang?!" The receptionist''s expression changed. "Ah, please wait a moment, I''ll call him for you"


    "Why are you so nervous?" Murong Shi asked as she watched the receptionist hurriedly reaching for thendline phone. Then, she raised an eyebrow and asked, "Is Jiang Shaohua hiding some shameful secret in his office?"


    The receptionist''s eyes wandered around in a panic as she stuttered, "T-This"


    Feeling intrigued, Murong Shi nonchntly asked, "Don''t tell me he''s hiding a woman?"


    The receptionist revealed an embarrassed look. Then, she put down the phone and timidly nodded.


    Murong Shi revealed a look of surprise upon hearing this answer.


    While carefully observing Murong Shi''s expression, the receptionist hesitantly said, "Both the director and your father are absent, so Young Master Jiang brought a woman here today. Some people are saying she is his new assistant, but others say that...she is Young Master Jiang''s new girlfriend"


    Before Murong Shi had left Bright Grid, everyone in thepany knew that she and Jiang Shaohua were a couple. The receptionist naturally knew about this, too. ording to the receptionist''s understanding, Murong Shi and Jiang Shaohua had been betrothed to each other since young. For the sake of their two families'' benefit, the two of them would definitely get married to each other in the future. However, for some strange reason, Murong Shi had suddenly vanished from thepany around half a year ago, and nobody knew where she had gone. From the rumors circting in thepany, most people guessed that she had gone abroad to further her studies.


    However, the fact that Murong Shi and Jiang Shaohua had long since broken up wasn''t made known to the public. The receptionist naturally did not know about it, either. So, when she heard that Murong Shi was looking for Jiang Shaohua, she couldn''t help but panic.


    "New girlfriend?" Murong Shi raised an eyebrow. "What''s her name?"


    "I think I heard Young Master Jiang calling her Sweet Melon."


    A deep smile formed on Murong Shi''s face when she heard the receptionist''s answer. Then, she said, "Thank you. You don''t need to call him for me."


    "Very well," the receptionist obedientlyplied.


    However, Murong Shi did not walk away after saying so. Instead, she picked up her phone, looked up Xu Chuanchuan''s number, and called it.


    The call quickly connected, and Murong Shi got straight to the point and said, "Are you busy right now? If not, apply for a one-hour leave from your department chief."


    "What for?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in confusion. First, Murong Shi had mysteriously left thepany. Now, she had called her to tell her such a thing.


    Revealing a soft smile, Murong Shi said, "You''ll know in a moment. Once you''re done applying for leave, take the railway ande to Bright Grid. I''ll wait for you at the front desk."

 Chapter 87: Pt.2

    Chapter 87: Pt.2


    "You''ll know in a moment. Once you''re done applying for leave, take the railway ande to Bright Grid. I''ll wait for you at the front desk."


    Bright Grid was S City''srgest real estatepany, and Murong Shi''s father was thepany''s second biggest shareholder. Murong Shi had previously worked at Bright Grid but switched to her current workce afterward to prove herself and break free from Sun An''s protection. Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan would frequently drive past Bright Grid''spany building when they went on dates, but Murong Shi had never bothered sparing it a nce.


    <em>Since Murong is having me apply for leave, it should be something urgent. But what could be the reason? Is it to meet her father?</em> Xu Chuanchuan wondered.<em> But if we''re going toe out of the closet, shouldn''t Murong discuss it with me beforehand?</em>


    <em>Wait, could her father have found out about our rtionship? Is he threatening her and stopping her froming back? So, is she asking me to go save her???</em>


    In a matter of seconds, Xu Chuanchuan had thought up numerous possibilities. However, none of them were positive situations.


    Not daring to waste time, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly looked for her department chief and applied for a temporary leave. Fortunately, her department chief did not question the random excuse she made up and only told her to hurry back once she was done with her affairs.


    Then, after running to Human Resources and dropping off her leave application, Xu Chuanchuan dashed toward the subway station and made her way to Bright Grid.


    It took only a few minutes by train to reach Bright Grid. After exiting the station, Xu Chuanchuan frantically ran for Bright Grid''s building, afraid that something terrible would happen if she was even one secondte.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan rushed into the lobby while panting, she found Murong Shi leisurely sitting on a sofa and sipping on a cup of coffee.


    "..."


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan''s arrive, Murong Shi set down her coffee and walked toward her lover. When she saw the sweat covering the other party''s forehead, she frowned and asked, "Why didn''t you use an umbre?"


    "I was in a hurry and forgot," Xu Chuanchuan said while looking at Murong Shi in a daze. "What did you call me here for?"


    Instead of responding, Murong Shi dragged Xu Chuanchuan into a private elevator. Only after making sure that nobody was around did she say, "Thankfully, that woman still hasn''t left."


    "What woman?"


    "Fragrant Citrus," Murong Shi said. While wiping Xu Chuanchuan''s sweat with a napkin, she continued, "She''s in Jiang Shaohua''s office right now."


    "Don''t tell me you called me here to have a frontal confrontation with her?!" Xu Chuanchuan eximed.


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry at Xu Chuanchuan''s reaction. "What''s the point in having a frontal confrontation? You also don''t need to let her know you''re I Love Mtang."


    Puzzled, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What did you call me here for, then?"


    Murong Shi pondered for a moment and said, "You don''t need to say or do anything. Just stand aside and quietly watch the show afterward."


    "Watch the show???"


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to ask more questions, but they had already reached their floor, and the elevator doors had opened.


    As the only daughter of thepany''s second biggest shareholder, Murong Shi was able to reach the ninth floor and enter the office area unhindered.


    Murong Shi''s tall figure and inherent temperament made her a ma for attention. The moment she appeared in the office area, some people immediately recognized her and greeted her. Murong Shi nodded in response to these greetings, but her feet did not stop as she led Xu Chuanchuan straight to Jiang Shaohua''s office.


    "Who''s that?"


    "You''re new here, right? That''s Miss Murong! Director Sun''s daughter."


    "So this is Director Sun''s daughter? She''s so beautiful. But why does Director Sun''s daughter have a different surname than him?"


    "How would I know?"


    "Who''s the person walking behind Miss Murong?"


    "Probably her assistant?"


    "That''s strange. Miss Murong has already disappeared from thepany for half a year. Why is she suddenly back again? Could it be"


    "Did she find out that Young Master Jiang has brought another woman to thepany?"


    "WaoThis is going to be interesting!"


    Although there were people whispering behind them, Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan did not hear what they said. When they arrived in front of Jiang Shaohua''s office, Jiang Shaohua''s female secretary hurriedly ran over to stop them. "M-M-Miss Murong, y-y-you''re back?"


    The secretary''s reaction was much more intensepared to the front desk''s receptionist. Seeing the secretary, Murong Shi said in a familiar tone, "Hello, Little Yue. I''m here to look for Jiang Shaohua."


    While sneaking peeks at the tightly shut door behind her, the secretary stammered, "Young Master Jiang is He is currently"


    "I know there''s another woman inside," Murong Shi casually interrupted.


    Secretary: "..."


    Pushing the secretary aside, Murong Shi said, "Go back to your work; no need to notify him."


    Now that Jiang Shaohua''s official girlfriend had arrived, and the other party had a powerful father, there was no way the secretary would dare to stop Murong Shi. Hence, she fled back to her office without hesitation.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi made a cursory knock on the door.


    "Enter." A man''s voice came through the door, mixed with a woman''s demure voice.


    Murong Shi snorted when she heard the woman''s voice. Then, she opened the door and entered the office with Xu Chuanchuan behind her.


    The scene inside the office was much more eye-catching than Murong Shi imagined.


    The woman named Sweet Melon was currently seated on Jiang Shaohua''s desk, and her skirt was lifted to the point where it was revealing part of her hips. While wrapping her arms around Jiang Shaohua''s neck, she sweetly smiled and said, "Someone''s here; hurry up and let me down."


    Both Jiang Shaohua and Sweet Melon had their backs facing the door, so they didn''t see who had entered the room. In response to Sweet Melon''s urging, Jiang Shaohua pinched her buttocks and frivolously said, "What are you afraid of? It''s only my secretary."


    Murong Shi did not call out Jiang Shaohua immediately. Instead, she turned around and found several pairs of eyes staring in her direction. When these spectators saw her turning around, they guiltily retracted their gazes and returned to work. Then, Murong Shi softly closed the door and signaled for Xu Chuanchuan to keep quiet.


    After not hearing anything for some time, Jiang Shaohua impatiently said, "What other documents do you need me to sign? Just bring everything to me."


    Murong Shi silently dragged Xu Chuanchuan to a sofa and sat down. Then, shezily said, "There are no documents. You two can continue."


    Upon hearing the voice that clearly did not belong to his secretary, Jiang Shaohua snapped his head around and gaped in shock. "Murong???"


    With a look of interest on her face, Murong Shi asked, "Did I interrupt your fun?"


    Jiang Shaohua did not answer. Instead, he quickly picked Sweet Melon off of the table.


    Sweet Melon felt a little embarrassed when she saw two unfamiliar women suddenly entering the office. Without even seeing what the other party looked like, she quickly hid behind Jiang Shaohua and tidied up her messy clothing.


    However, seemingly having gotten used to such situations, Jiang Shaohua straightened his tie and leisurely walked over to Murong Shi. "Well, this is a first. What brings you here today?"


    Murong Shi looked over Jiang Shaohua and stared at the woman behind him. Then, she put on a sarcastic smile and said, "I''m here to catch a fox."


    "Catch what fox?" Jiang Shaohua asked in confusion.


    Murong Shi stood up and walked up to the woman behind Jiang Shaohua. Then, she began unscrupulously scrutinizing Sweet Melonalso known as Fragrant Citrus.


    From what Murong Shi could tell, Fragrant Citrus looked a lot more beautiful in person than in the pictures she shared online. Setting aside whether Fragrant Citrus had gotten any stic surgery done before, she was undoubtedly a beauty if one judged her purely based on her facial features. In addition, she also had a body with perfect proportions. Combined with her revealing clothing, she just so happened to fit Jiang Shaohua''s taste for women.


    As Murong Shi was wearing high heels, she was much taller than Fragrant Citrus. While looking down at the other party, she said, "Flirting in the office? You really know how to have fun."


    Fragrant Citrus had heard of Jiang Shaohua''s womanizing behavior before. She had even seen many of his rumored girlfriends. Hence, she suspected that Murong Shi was also one of Jiang Shaohua''s many girlfriends. However, she also couldn''t help but doubt her judgment as Murong Shi''s temperament was different from Jiang Shaohua''s other women. Moreover, the woman before her wore a cold expression. There was also a sharp look in her eyes. At a nce, it was obvious that Murong Shi had note here with good intentions.


    Realizing this fact, Fragrant Citrus timidly stuck to Jiang Shaohua''s back. Then, she carefully asked, "Young Master Jiang, who is she?"


    "She''s"


    "I''m his girlfriend," Murong Shi coldly stated.


    Looking at Murong Shi as if he had just seen a ghost, Jiang Shaohua said, "Haven''t we already"


    Murong Shi held Jiang Shaohua''s mouth and stopped thetter from speaking. Then, she stared at Fragrant Citrus and asked, "And who are you?"


    <em>So she is one of his girlfriends. Then, that makes us no different from each other. No, there is a difference. After all, I''m Jiang Shaohua''s favorite right now, </em>Fragrant Citrus thought, feeling delighted with herself. Then, she smirked and said, "Why should I tell you?"


    "Are all mistresses so cocky nowadays?" Murong Shi mockingly said.


    Fragrant Citrus''s facial muscles trembled. Then, she raised her voice and said, "Who are you calling a mistress?!"


    "You, of course."


    "Young Master Jiang, what is going on?"


    "Mmmph" Jiang Shaohua still had his mouth mped shut, so he signaled for Murong Shi to release him with his eyes.


    Murong Shi released Jiang Shaohua''s mouth in response. However, before the man could say anything, she said, "Everyone in this building knows that Jiang Shaohua and I are engaged. I am his fiance, so what are you?"


    "Murong, what are you"


    "You shut up," Murong Shi ordered in a lukewarm tone.


    Jiang Shaohua: "..." <em>Can someone tell me what is going on?</em>


    At this time, Jiang Shaohua finally noticed Xu Chuanchuan, who stood behind Murong Shi. So, he cast a questioning look at the other party.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan shrugged and expressed that she, too, was confused by this situation.


    Meanwhile, Fragrant Citrus couldn''t help but be shocked when she saw Jiang Shaohua obediently listening to Murong Shi''s words. <em>I heard that Jiang Shaohua had a fiance, but didn''t they say that she went abroad for further studies? Why is she back so soon?</em>


    Fragrant Citrus''s confidence plummeted after this revtion. Then, she anxiously looked at Jiang Shaohua for help. "Young Master Jiang, I"


    "Don''t expect him to help you," Murong Shi mercilessly interrupted Fragrant Citrus. Then, with a stern look in her eyes, she continued, "I''m going to teach you what the consequences are for snatching someone else''s man today!"


    As soon as Murong Shi finished speaking, she raised a hand into the air.


    Fragrant Citrus''splexion paled upon seeing this, and she hurriedly tried to run away. However, Murong Shi swiftly caught her hands and held her in ce.


    Seeing this, Jiang Shaohua couldn''t help but feel a little pity for Fragrant Citrus, so he said, "Murong, aren''t you"


    However, Jiang Shaohua quickly shut his mouth after receiving a re from Murong Shi.


    "You,e here," Murong Shi said toward Xu Chuanchuan, who was idly standing behind her.


    "What?" The situation had developed too quickly, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t make sense of the situation at all.


    "You crazy woman! Let go of me!" Fragrant Citrus struggled and screamed. Unfortunately, Murong Shi was taller than her and had longer arms. Most importantly, Murong Shi had much greater strength than she did, so she couldn''t break free from Murong Shi''s restraint at all.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and whispered, "She ndered you twice, so p her twice. Hurry!"


    <em>She wants me to hit her???</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had never even thought of doing such a thing. So, she widened her eyes in disbelief and instinctively shook her head.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi said, "Think about the several hundred point reductions. Can you stomach this grudge? You won''t get another chance like this if you don''t act now."


    Something snapped in Xu Chuanchuan''s mind. Triggered by the words "point reduction," she stepped forward, raised a hand, and sent a p flying at Fragrant Citrus''s face.


    <em>p.</em>


    A crisp sound echoed throughout the room. However, instead of hitting Fragrant Citrus''s face, Xu Chuanchuan had mistakenly struck the other party''s chin instead


    "You are going too far! What right do you have to hit me?! Young Master Jiang, save me!" Fragrant Citrus cried out in horror.


    "..." Jiang Shaohua quietly watched the fight between the three women.


    "That''s not loud enough! Hit her harder for me!" Murong Shi said, her voiceced with killing intent. If one wasn''t in the know, one would think that Murong Shi really was here to expose her boyfriend''s mistress.


    <em>This is too crazy.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan had never pped another person before, so she couldn''t help but shrink back a little after her first attempt. However, Murong Shi''s words quickly encouraged her and changed her mind.


    Moreover, when Xu Chuanchuan looked at the cursing woman in front of her and thought back to the ndering posts the other party made, a strong sense of disgust welled up within her.


    After taking a deep breath, Xu Chuanchuan held Fragrant Citrus''s chin with one hand and concentrated all of her strength into her other hand. Then, she ruthlessly sent her hand flying at Fragrant Citrus''s face.


    "Ah"


    Apanied by Fragrant Citrus''s scream, a loud and crisp sound echoed throughout the office.


    Afternding her second p, Xu Chuanchuan found herself shuddering in excitement. She never thought that pping an enemy would feel so liberating and exhrating. However, before she could sort out her emotions, she was given a scare by the sight in front of her. Gasping, she said, "Y-Your nose!"


    "Holy shit" Jiang Shaohua, who was enjoying the show from the sidelines, was simrly given a fright. Then, while pointing at Fragrant Citrus''s crooked nose, he yelled, "What the hell is that?!"

 Chapter 88: Pt.1

    Chapter 88: Pt.1


    Even the ever-calm Murong Shi did not expect such a dramatic scene to take ce. Hurriedly, she pushed Fragrant Citrus away and pulled her frightened lover behind her. Then, Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan, and Jiang Shaohua all looked at the center of Fragrant Citrus''s face withplicated expressions.


    The nose, which had initially looked straight and pristine, was now beaten to the side and wobbling. It looked as if it would break off with the slightest of touch, and it was truly a horrific sight.


    As if Fragrant Citrus''s pain receptors had failed to function properly, quite some time had passed before she realized that she had been hit. However, she didn''t have the time to care about this right now. When she heard Xu Chuanchuan bringing up her nose, she panicked and tried touching it with her hand. Then, after falling into a daze for a second, she yelled out in horror, "My nose! My nose!"


    After steadying his posture, Jiang Shaohua pointed at Fragrant Citrus''s nose and cursed with disgust, "Fuck! You''re actually artificial!"


    Fragrant Citrus paid no attention to Jiang Shaohua''s words. Her facial features contorting, she red at Xu Chuanchuan and bellowed, "I...I''ll kill you!"


    Xu Chuanchuan never expected her p to yield such results, either. Shuddering, she tightly held onto Murong Shi''s arm and said, "I''m sorry, I"


    "No need to apologize to her," Murong Shi tly said while shielding Xu Chuanchuan with her body.


    After being disfigured, Fragrant Citrus couldn''t be bothered to keep up her image anymore as she desperately lunged and wed at Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan.


    Murong Shi was already prepared to defend herself and her lover. However, before she could take action, Jiang Shaohua had effortlessly subdued Fragrant Citrus.


    Although Jiang Shaohua didn''t know the exact cause of this situation, he had a good understanding of Murong Shi''s personality. His childhood friend definitely wasn''t the type to start a fight with someone else for no reason. There was bound to be something strange going on.


    On one side stood his childhood friend, whom he had a great understanding of and whose family''s interests were tied to his own family''s interests. On the other side stood his bed partner, whom he didn''t even know had artificial facial features. If Jiang Shaohua were to pick a side, he would definitely choose the former.


    In an attempt to quell the situation, Jiang Shaohua embraced Fragrant Citrus and said, "Alright, alright, stop making trouble."


    Upon hearing Jiang Shaohua''s words, Fragrant Citrus turned around and red at the man with reddened eyes. Then, in a sobbing voice, she yelled, "Young Master Jiang, are you just going to let them bully me like this?"


    If it was a beautiful woman flirting and acting weak in front of him, Jiang Shaohua''s heart would''ve probably softened. However, Fragrant Citrus''s current appearance was something he didn''t even dare to look at. So, he simply looked at Murong Shi and said, "She dares to bully even me. How am I supposed to help you?"


    "You!" Fragrant Citrus grew angry and frustrated when she realized that she couldn''t rely on the only man in the room. Then, she pointed at Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan, yelling, "I''m going to sue you for malicious harm! I''m going to have youpensate for my loss!"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but shudder when she heard Fragrant Citrus''s hoarse voice. Then, she anxiously looked at Murong Shi and asked, "What should we do?"


    After giving a pat on Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, Murong Shi frankly said to Fragrant Citrus, "Sure, we''ll pay."


    Fragrant Citrus was momentarily stunned when she heard the other party readily agreeing to her demands. However, when she realized that she had just suffered a huge humiliation, she added, "Do you think it''s over just because you pay? On what basis are you allowed to hit people for no reason? I''m going to sue you! I''m going to call the police!"


    In response, Murong Shi calmly said, "It''ll only be regarded as a civil dispute even if you call the police. We willpensate you for whatever you deserve. Rather than continuing to make noise here, I advise you to go to a hospital and get surgery done first."


    Fragrant Citrus felt that Murong Shi was trying to evade the topic, so she yelled, "Why are you so arrogant after hitting someone?!"


    At this time, Jiang Shaohua turned Fragrant Citrus toward him and said, "I think she''s right. You should hurry to the hospital. Just look at your nose; even the skin has torn already. My god, how disgusting."


    Jiang Shaohua''s words frightened Fragrant Citrus. Then, while sticking her sharp nails into his flesh, she pleaded, "Young Master Jiang, I''m scared. Can you go with me?"


    Apanying a woman to the hospital for stic surgery was simply too shameful. There was no way Jiang Shaohua would do such a thing. After letting his eyes wander around for a moment, he said, "I''m very busy; thepany needs me. Who would sign the papers if I leave? How about I find someone else to go with you?"


    After saying so, Jiang Shaohua began dragging Fragrant Citrus out of the office.


    Now that her face looked like something that came out of a horror film, how could Fragrant Citrus possibly dare let other people see her? So, she desperately dragged her feet and said, "I''m not going! I''m not!"


    Jiang Shaohua gradually lost his patience in this situation. Eventually, he raised his voice and yelled, "Little Yue,e in!"


    In less than three seconds, a knock came from the door, the door opened, and someone entered the office. Little Yue, Jiang Shaohua''s secretary, had constantly been keeping tabs on the situation inside her boss''s office. When she started hearing noiseing from the office, she had guessed that a fight had probably ensued in the room. However, never did she think that the fight would be so intense and...peculiar.


    Murong Shi, the "official girlfriend" who should have been furious, was standing at the side behaving as if she was a bystander in the room; Xu Chuanchuan, who looked to be Murong Shi''s assistant, hid behind Murong Shi like a child who had just made a mistake; Jiang Shaohua, who was tightly holding onto Fragrant Citrus''s waist, surprisingly wasn''t flirting; As for the "mistress" Fragrant Citrus


    Upon paying closer attention, Little Yue immediately had her attention attracted toward Fragrant Citrus''s bent nose and eximed, "Heavens! This is"


    Seeing Little Yue''s reaction, Fragrant Citrus hurriedly covered her face out of embarrassment.


    Little Yue had seen many things in her life, but this was the first time she hade across a fight that had resulted in someone''s nose being bent. Fortunately, her professionalism kicked in, and she retracted her surprised expression and said, "Young Master Jiang, what are your orders?"


    Jiang Shaohua did not waste time with words. Pointing at the woman in his arms with his chin, he said, "She''s injured. Bring her to the hospital immediately."


    At this point, Little Yue guessed that Fragrant Citrus''s injury should be rted to Murong Shi. Hence, she couldn''t help but hesitate in executing Jiang Shaohua''smand. After all, doing so would be akin to taking the "mistress" for treatment right in front of the "official girlfriend." Wouldn''t Murong Shi grow angry in such a situation?


    Little Yue was troubled by this situation. She couldn''t afford to offend either Jiang Shaohua or Murong Shi. So, she secretly snuck a nce at Murong Shi. Only after seeing Murong Shi was showing no reactions did she dare agree, saying, "Alright. Miss Sweet Melon, please follow me."


    However, Fragrant Citrus refused to move.


    Sighing, Jiang Shaohua removed his coat and used it to cover Fragrant Citrus''s head. Then, she said, "Alright, no one can see it now."


    <em>But wouldn''t this make her draw even more attention?</em> Little Yue couldn''t help but wonder if Jiang Shaohua was doing this on purpose. However, she also dared notugh in this situation.


    Looking through the opening in the coat, Fragrant Citrus red at Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan and threatened, "Just you wait! I''ll make you pay!"


    Unfazed by the threat, Murong Shi said, "Remember to bring the receipt."


    Murong Shi''s reaction incited Fragrant Citrus''s hatred even further. If she wasn''t worried about her nose, Fragrant Citrus would''ve wanted nothing more than to tear up Murong Shi''s face.


    Little Yue noticed that something was amiss with Fragrant Citrus''s expression. To prevent any further problems from happening, she forcibly pushed Fragrant Citrus out of the office, though not forgetting to close the door on her way out.


    Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t calm down even after Fragrant Citrus had left. While patting her chest, she said, "I didn''t think her nose would end up like that. I wouldn''t have hit her if I knew something like that would happen."


    Shrugging, Murong Shi said, "An eye for an eye. She harmed you first, so it''s only fair you get to hit her."


    "But her nose" Xu Chuanchuan looked at her palm. Seeing that it was neither red nor swollen, she muttered, "I didn''t actually use much strength just now."


    At this time, Jiang Shaohuaughed out loud and interjected, "Had you used a little more strength, even her chin might''ve fallen off. You''re Xu Xiangxiang''s elder sister, right? You look like a little white rabbit. I didn''t think you could be so ferocious when pressed."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Then, Jiang Shaohua turned to Murong Shi and asked, "Murong, what''s up with this situation? What''s with the fiance and girlfriend thing? Haven''t we broken up long ago? Did that Sweet Melon offend you before?"


    "Mhm," Murong Shi ndly responded.


    Although Jiang Shaohua had long since had his suspicions, he still couldn''t help but be surprised by Murong Shi''s answer. "Have you two met before? How did she offend you?"


    This situation involved many matters, and Murong Shi found it inconvenient to exin everything to Jiang Shaohua. So, she ambiguously said, "She knows best how she offended me."


    It was impossible to grasp a woman''s thoughts, so Jiang Shaohua tactfully stopped asking. Then, he switched back to his slouchy appearance and said, "The beauty in my arms turned into an ugly witch as soon as you arrived. Now that I don''t have anyone to apany me anymore, what do you think I should do?"


    Murong Shi rolled her eyes at Jiang Shaohua and ignored the man.


    Seeing no response from Murong Shi, Jiang Shaohua looked toward Xu Chuanchuan, who seemed friendlier, and revealed a yful smile. Then, he asked, "How about you apany me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Murong Shi stepped in front of Xu Chuanchuan without hesitation and blocked Jiang Shaohua''s prying eyes. Then, she coldly said, "If your father finds out that you brought a dubious woman to thepany during working hours, how do you think he would react?"


    "..." Jiang Shaohua was rendered speechless.


    "I''ll pay for that woman''s hospital fees. Have your secretary send me a bill once everything''s settled."


    "Since when did you be so generous?" Jiang Shaohua joyfully asked.


    Sneering, Murong Shi said, "If I had known her face was so fragile, I should''ve had Chuanchuan send two kicks at her stomach instead.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "What if there''s a child in her stomach? What would you do if your kick ended up killing the kid?" Jiang Shaohua jokingly asked.


    Failing to get the joke, Xu Chuanchuan eximed, "She''s pregnant?! Don''t tell me it''s yours?!"


    "I''m just speaking hypothetically," Jiang Shaohua said. After a slight pause, he continued in a contemptuous tone, "I''ve seen plenty of women like her. I might fool around with her, but there''s no way I''ll have a child with her."


    <em>Although Fragrant Citrus isn''t a good person, this Jiang Shaohua is also a human scum</em> Sure enough, birds of a feather flock together, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself.


    Then, Jiang Shaohua cast a wink at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I quite like pure and unpretentious women like you as well. How about you be my girlfriend? I promise I''ll be nice to you."


    "Jiang Shaohua, are you tired of living?" Murong Shi sent Jiang Shaohua a sharp re.


    "What did I do?"


    Holding Xu Chuanchuan''s hand, Murong Shi said, "We''re going back."


    "What''s the rush? Let''s talk some more. I''ll treat you two to dinner after work."


    "No need." Putting on a solemn expression, Murong Shi said, "Sorry foring uninvited today."


    Jiang Shaohua chuckled when he heard Murong Shi''s apology. "What are you talking about? What do you mean uninvited? You have 10% of thispany''s shares."


    Murong Shi did not deny Jiang Shaohua''s words.


    Seeing Murong Shi''s resolute attitude, Jiang Shaohua simply waved his hand and said, "Alright, then. I won''t keep you here. Goodbye."


    "By the way." Just as Murong Shi was about to reach the door, she suddenly stopped and asked, "How much do you know about that Sweet Melon?"


    Jiang Shaohua had already returned to his seat. While fiddling with a pen, he pondered for a moment before saying, "I didn''t even know her nose was fake. Not to mention, I''m just ying around with her. She sleeps with me while I give her money. We''re just taking what we need from each other. I''m not trying to take her in as my wife, so why must I know so much about her?"


    After hearing Jiang Shaohua''s explicit and tant remark, Xu Chuanchuan felt her contempt for the man increasing a little more. However, after putting more thought into the matter, she realized that Jiang Shaohua''s words weren''t without reason. If Fragrant Citrus intended on being his girlfriend, then why would she have him give her money after having sex with him?


    <em>What a messy rtionship, </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself.


    After staying silent for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Since you don''t mind, pretend I never said anything."

 Chapter 88: Pt.2

    Chapter 88: Pt.2


    Murong Shi''s sudden arrival and departure created a storm in thepany. As soon as she and Xu Chuanchuan entered the elevator, everyone on the ninth floor started a heated discussion among themselves.


    Did you see that? I told you that the person Secretary Yue brought away was that woman named Sweet Melon. She was even covering her face with a coat just now. I suspect that she got disfigured.


    This is unexpected. I never thought someone as aloof as Miss Murong would resort to scratching someone''s face in a fight.


    How do you know it''s Miss Murong who took action? What if it''s the assistant she brought with her?


    The assistant? She looks so weak. There''s no way it''s her, right?


    I''m more curious to find out about Young Master Jiang''s condition right now. Did Miss Murong perhaps


    Before this person could finish his words, the door to Jiang Shaohua''s office abruptly opened. Then, Jiang Shaohua appeared by the door and said with a gloomy expression, "Do you think I''m deaf? If you don''t want to work here anymore, pack up and get lost!"


    After getting into the car, Xu Chuanchuan anxiously said, "Her injuries looked severe. What if she gets permanently disfigured? What should we do?"


    "In that case, she got her just deserts," Murong Shi indifferently said.


    "But we''ll incur a loss!"


    "What loss?"


    "Her surgery will most likely cost a lot of money. We will also need to paypensation for hitting her. Isn''t that a loss? If she gets permanently disfigured, we''ll probably have to pay even more money," Xu Chuanchuan anxiously said.


    However, Murong Shi nonchntly replied, "Rx. Such a minor surgery won''t cost much. Just think of it as an entertainment fee. It''ll also teach her asting lesson."


    Despite Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan still felt her heart aching over the loss. Gloomily, she said, "It''s all my fault. I shouldn''t have hit her face if I knew something like this was going to happen."


    Murong Shi thought to offer some words of constion for her lover, but before she could speak up, she heard Xu Chuanchuan angrily saying, "I should''ve bitten her to death instead!"


    Murong Shi let out a chuckle. Then, she said, "Have you relieved your anger now?"


    Clicking her tongue, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Not at all. That''s a lot of money. Just two ps cost us tens of thousands. She''s not worth that much."


    Murong Shi''s expression stiffened when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she said, "I should''ve personally hit her instead. I wouldn''t have cared whether her nose got bent or her eyeballs fell out."


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Shi was trying to help her vent her anger. Only, neither of them had expected that Fragrant Citrus would be so fragile. Under normal circumstances, a p to the face wouldn''t have led to such a situation. So, they could only me themselves for having bad luck.


    The tragedy had already happened, so no amount ofining would bring any benefit. After calming her mind, Xu Chuanchuan raised her right hand and said in embarrassment, "But it really did feel nice when I hit her just now."


    "Does your hand hurt?" Murong Shi asked as she grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and inspected it.


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head in response. Then, she wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck and kissed her, saying, "Murong, thank you."


    After returning to the dormitory, Xu Chuanchuan immediately told Ange about what had happened today.


    Ange: "You two are merciless! I''m in awe! [Cup fists]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "You won''t be mad at me for disfiguring your ex-girlfriend, right?"


    Ange: "Why would I be mad? You already said it yourselfshe''s just my ex-girlfriend. Although I wouldn''t get physical with her, the actions she has taken toward you have truly disgusted me."


    Five days after the incident, Murong Shi had received an email from Jiang Shaohua''s secretary. Fragrant Citrus''s medical fee had arrived, and it totaled 40,000 yuan. As she promised, Murong Shi sent the money to Jiang Shaohua without even blinking.


    Fragrant Citrus initially wanted to seek justice for herself after receiving two ps to the face and getting disfigured for no reason. However, she failed to find out about Murong Shi''s identity and whereabouts, so she had no choice but toin to Jiang Shaohua.


    Jiang Shaohua disliked troublesome women the most. After getting annoyed several times, he chose to hide from Fragrant Citrus as far away as possible.


    Suddenly, Fragrant Citrus had be something akin to a concubine who had lost the emperor''s favor. She had also just finished surgery recently, so there was no way she could host any live streams with her current appearance. As a result, she could only wash her face with tears in her rented apartment every day.


    On the 1st of November, Murong Shi''s birthday:


    Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan had originally nned to celebrate this day by themselves. However, Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang had suddenly called to say that they wereing to celebrate Murong Shi''s birthday. They had even pooled their money and bought a cake.


    Seeing as the two girls had gone out of their way to celebrate her birthday on their weekend break, Murong Shi couldn''t bring herself to refuse their good intentions. However, the dormitory was too cramped, so Murong Shi decided to bring them to a better ce to celebrate.


    "Why don''t we go to the pub where we celebrated my birthdayst time?" Xu Xiangxiang suggested.


    The pub''s environment was clean and elegant. It also had arge variety of alcohol and a talented band. So, Xu Chuanchuan had a deep impression of that ce. Most importantly, Murong Shi had also been present that night. Xu Chuanchuan still remembered that Murong Shi had offered to drive her up to the main road after they left the pub. While in the car, Murong Shi had even asked Xu Chuanchuan to be her girlfriend, but Xu Chuanchuan had mercilessly rejected her.


    In the blink of an eye, the two of them had already been together for such a long time. Realizing this fact, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help butment over how quickly time passed. At the same time, Xu Chuanchuan also subconsciously smiled.


    Murong Shi just so happened to have noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s smile, so she asked, "What are you thinking about?"


    "I''m thinking about you," Xu Chuanchuan frankly said.


    The sudden confession was very gratifying, and Murong Shi''s eyes lit up with joy. Unable to help herself, she leaned forward and kissed Xu Chuanchuan on the lips.


    "You two should pay attention to your surroundings. We still haven''t left," Little Yan said while covering her face.


    Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang watched the show with wide eyes while saying, "Why not go for a French kiss while you''re at it?"


    In response, Murong Shi held Xu Chuanchuan''s head with both hands, fully intending to take on Xu Xiangxiang''s dare. However, when she leaned forward, her lips ended up falling on the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan gently pushed Murong Shi away with a blush on her face. Then, while avoiding the topic, she said, "Let''s go to that pub, then. I don''t think Little Yan has visited it before."


    Little Yan enthusiastically nodded as she said, "I''ve never been to a pub before. I want to try some alcohol."


    "Let''s invite Fang Qin along as well," Xu Chuanchuan said to Murong Shi.


    "Mhm."


    When the pub owner heard that this was their second time celebrating a birthday here, he even gifted them a bottle of wine.


    The five of them merrily chatted with each other when they gathered together again.


    Xu Xiangxiang, in particr, did not stop talking ever since she set foot into the pub, so Xu Chuanchuan told her to drink something and take a break. While taking a sip out of a bottle of beer, Xu Xiangxiang changed the topic and said, "I heard that Sweet Melon stopped streaming."


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi tacitly looked at each other when they heard the words "Sweet Melon."


    "Why did she stop streaming?" Murong Shi calmly asked.


    "I don''t know the specifics, but I heard rumors saying that Sweet Melon suffered aplication during stic surgery, so she''s afraid of showing herself in front of the camera anymore. There are also some saying that she''szy. Some people have even gone as far as to say that she''s pregnant. Regardless, I haven''t seen her going online recently. I also heard that Young Master Jiang doesn''t want her anymore. However, she already signed a five-year contract, so she can''t leave even if she wanted to. She''ll probably fall into obscurity from now on," Xu Xiangxiang joyfully said while rubbing her face against her beer bottle.


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi exchanged another silent nce with each other.


    Then, Fang Qin pated the table and protested, "Can you guys talk about something I understand?"


    "Okay." Revealing a bright smile, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "How are you and Angeing along? Do you two have amon topic now?"


    "..." Fang Qin identally choked on her drink. A blush had also appeared on her face and spread to her neck. After calming herself down, she awkwardly said, "Can we change the subject?"


    Then, Little Yan picked up the conversation and said, "Cousin, this is the birthday gift I got you using all of my allowances! Although it isn''t expensive, it''s the thought that counts. I wish you will be more and more beautiful and that you will live a long and happy life with Chuanchuan!"


    "What a sweet mouth you have there," Fang Qin said while pinching Little Yan''s cheeks.


    After Little Yan, Xu Xiangxiang and Fang Qin also offered up the presents they prepared.


    "What about yours?" Murong Shi asked when she saw Xu Chuanchuan fidgeting in her seat.


    Jokingly, Fang Qin said, "Chuanchuan is probably nning to wrap herself and give herself to you."


    "I think so as well. My sister''s so stingy. If she uses herself as a present, she wouldn''t need to spend any money."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to debate with the two. Instead, she quietly brought out the present she had prepared a month agoa shiny diamond ne.


    Facts had proven that Xu Chuanchuan''s gift was the most expensive out of the bunch. Immediately, everyone huddled closer to take a look.


    Little Yan: "It''s so beautiful!"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Sis, you really went all out this time!"


    Fang Qin: "You have quite the good eye."


    Xu Chuanchuan smiled.


    Parting Xu Chuanchuan''s hair and touching her right ear, Murong Shi said, "This present is over a hundred yuan. How am I supposed to ept it?"


    <em>Sure enough, she still remembers our previous agreement </em>Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan had already thought up an excuse, so she solemnly said, "I think that items that are too cheap aren''t worthy of you."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s words sounded a lot like ttery. After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Going by your logic, I won''t be able to give you a present for your birthday in the future."


    Feeling a little embarrassed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I know I''m not good...but it''s not to the point where I''m worthy of a gift, right?"


    Taking a long look at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Silly, I''m saying that you''re priceless. I can''t afford to give you anything."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes.


    Fang Qin: "I can''t take it anymore. I''m going to the restroom first."


    Xu Xiangxiang, Little Yan: "Me too."

 Chapter 89: Pt.1

    Chapter 89: Pt.1


    By the end of the birthday celebration, Little Yan and Xu Xiangxiang had both drunk themselves to sleep, and Fang Qin had to take on the responsibility of sending them back to their respective schools once again. Before leaving, Fang Qin said, "I''ll leave you two to yourselves for the rest of the night. Have fun."


    After seeing off the trio, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi wandered around the pub''s vicinity.


    There was a musical fountain in the nearby za, and lights brightly illuminated the area. Hence, many children apanied by their parents could be seen ying around the fountain.


    Murong Shi disliked lively environments, so Xu Chuanchuan had to coax her into going to the fountain. After arriving by the fountain, Xu Chuanchuan took out a one-yuan coin and threw it into the fountain. Then, she closed her eyes and made a wish. After making her wish, she happily pulled Murong Shi away from the za.


    Looking at the silly smile on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi asked, "What did you wish for?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes wandered for a moment before she asked, "What about you?"


    Murong Shi knew Xu Chuanchuan was referring to the wish she made while cutting her birthday cake in the pub. So, she said, "I wished for my parents to remain healthy and for you to be a famous author as soon as possible."


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You didn''t wish anything for yourself?"


    "I''m already satisfied with my current life. I''m also confident in my future. God is a busy person. If I make too many wishes, he might not have enough time to fulfill them."


    "So that''s why the wishes I made in the past never came true. I was too greedy," Xu Chuanchuan said, pursing her lips.


    Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh at Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she reminded, "You still haven''t told me what you wished for just now."


    "This Not telling."


    Murong Shi was stunned. "Are you going back on your word?"


    "I never said I was going to trade with you," Xu Chuanchuan said in a righteous tone.


    Murong Shi narrowed her eyes. Then, she extended a hand to scratch the soft flesh on her lover''s waist.


    Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth to endure the pleasure. However, Murong Shi was simply too familiar with her weak points. In less than half a minute, she had already sumbed to the pleasure and pleaded, "I''ll tell you after we''re back in the car."


    After returning to the car, Xu Chuanchuan still hesitated to speak. Losing her patience, Murong Shi pretended to be angry and asked, "Are you waiting for me to scratch you again?"


    pping away Murong Shi''s demonic w, Xu Chuanchuan said, "What I wished for just now It isn''t anything important."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t trying to go back on her word. It was just that she was suddenly feeling embarrassed. After all, the wish she made was quite pettypared to Murong Shi''s.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi tilted her head and let her long hair loosely fall aside. However, while her sitting posture looked very casual, her eyes were locked on Xu Chuanchuan''s face. Then, shemanded, "Say it."


    Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan timidly said, "I wished that I could celebrate your every birthday with you from now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan was unused to speaking such romantic words in such a straightforward manner. Not to mention, there was still a lively crowd outside. So, she turned her head away as soon as she finished speaking.


    Murong Shi quietly observed Xu Chuanchuan for a while. Then, a smile formed on her mouth as she asked, "Are you feeling shy?"


    "I''m not," Xu Chuanchuan stiffly said.


    "Even your face has turned red already."


    "That''s because...I drank alcohol just now."


    Murong Shi burst intoughter. Then, she said, "I''m not suffering from memory loss. I was the one who drank all of the alcohol for you."


    Xu Chuanchuan could feel Murong Shi''s intense gaze on her face. She could also sense Murong Shi''s face moving closer and closer to her. While pretending to be calm, she pushed Murong Shi''s face away and said, "It''s hot. Why are you sticking so close to me?"


    "You''re feeling hot after just this much? I was even thinking of kissing you."


    Murong Shi''s eyes looked a little dazed because of the alcohol, and the tenderness they contained could drown a person to death. Her voice was also full of temptation, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find herself seduced by it. However, she managed to sober up at thest minute and said, "There are people outside."


    "They won''t notice."


    Despite knowing that the windows were tinted, Xu Chuanchuan still felt that they had to pay attention to their surroundings when outside. Also, unlike Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t the type to fool around after consuming alcohol. So, she pushed Murong Shi away once more and said, "You didn''t even drink a lot. Sit properly."


    After struggling a few more times, Murong Shizily leaned back in her seat as if having run out of energy.


    "Why are you staring at me?" Xu Chuanchuan asked when she noticed Murong Shi''s gaze still fixated on her.


    Murong Shi smiled but did not speak.


    For a while now, Murong Shi would often find herself missing the Xu Chuanchuan who would blush at the slightest provocation. However, ever since they started living together and did all those shameless acts, they became more and more familiar with each other. Naturally, they also became less reserved toward each other. While this was undoubtedly a good thing, this development had also taken some of the fun and freshness out of their rtionship.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan''s shy appearance just now had caused Murong Shi to recall the feelings she experienced in the past. Drowned in her pleasant memories, Murong Shi couldn''t help herself from moving aside Xu Chuanchuan''s hair and giving thetter''s ear a lick. Then, she whispered into her lover''s ear, "Let''s stop strolling and go home."


    This was an invitation that only the two of them understood.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her throat tightening under Murong Shi''s passionate gaze. Then, she put her hands on the steering wheel, her lips subconsciously curling upward as she said, "Fasten your seatbelt."


    ...


    Although the dormitory supposedly housed three people, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi were the apartment''s only upants most of the time. Particrly, after Linda found out about their rtionship, she would try to make as much space for them as possible.


    The moon tonight looked as if something had taken a bite out of it. There were no clouds in the sky, so moonlight shone through the window and illuminated a tall figure and a short figure in the room.


    "...I''ll close the curtains first," Xu Chuanchuan said in an unsteady breath.


    However, before Xu Chuanchuan could walk to the window, Murong Shi embraced her from behind and nted a kiss on the back of her neck, the searing kiss causing Xu Chuanchuan to shudder.


    Seeing as Xu Chuanchuan had be petrified from the kiss, Murong Shi inserted her arms through Xu Chuanchuan''s armpits and drew the thick, opaque curtains on her lover''s behalf. Then, while softly kissing Xu Chuanchuan''s cheek, Murong Shi asked, "Are you not going to write today?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had decided not to keep a stockpile for her current book, so she wrote and published her chapters on the spot every day. Typically, she would be sitting in front of herputer and desperately typing away at her keyboard at this time. However, because she wanted to celebrate Murong Shi''s birthday today, she had left a message in her book''sment section earlier today stating that she was taking the day off and would be doing a double release tomorrow instead.


    After returning from the birthday celebration, Xu Chuanchuan checked her book''sment section and found that many newments had already drowned out herment. Worried that there might be people who had missed the notice, she also made an announcement in her reader group.


    After Being Bent By Reader had already been rmended on the tform''s front page for two consecutive weeks. The ndering post Fragrant Citrus made had also helped the novel gain a lot of attention. So, the book currently had many readers, and many new members had joined Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group. Arger portion of these new members was also constantly asking for her and "Passerby Shi" to share more details about their love life.


    It was naturally a good thing for many people to like her book. Xu Chuanchuan also wanted to have more interactions with her readers to maintain her book''s poprity. However, when she thought about how Fragrant Citrus''s sub-ount might still be stalking in her reader group, she couldn''t help but worry her actions might stir up another argument. So, she decided to maintain a low profile for now.


    Meanwhile, when the readers in the group chat found out that Xu Chuanchuan was going to celebrate Murong Shi''s birthday, they instantly drowned out her announcement with a flood of messages. Although there were too many messages for Xu Chuanchuan to read, she still vaguely saw a certain reader''s message.


    Before thoroughly drowning in pleasure, Xu Chuanchuan weakly pushed against the person on top of her. Then, she took a deep breath and said, "They told me to push you down tonight."


    Murong Shi, who was removing Xu Chuanchuan''s shirt, paused. Then, she asked, "What did you say?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had already gotten used to being on the receiving end during their nightly activities, so she found it truly embarrassing to talk about such a topic. It would be much better if she took direct action instead.


    After calming her rapidly beating heart, Xu Chuanchuan pushed Murong Shi down and got on top of thetter without hesitation. Then, she nted a kiss on Murong Shi''s lips before saying, "Let me do it tonight."


    A yful smile appeared on Murong Shi''s face as she looked up at the person above her. Then, after gently caressing Xu Chuanchuan''s waist, she rxed her arms and said, "I''m feeling a little tired anyway, so go ahead."


    Xu Chuanchuan leaned down to kiss Murong Shi. While doing so, she did not let her hands stay idle as she lifted Murong Shi''s nightgown, revealing thece thong Murong Shi wore underneath.


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly felt her heartbeat elerating. The underwear had so little fabric that it might as well not exist. Just as she was about to remove the underwear as well, she suddenly thought of something.


    Murong Shi felt a little chilly when the air conditioner''s cold airnded on her bare thighs, so she rubbed her knees against Xu Chuanchuan''s waist for some warmth. While doing so, she yfully said, "Go on."


    However, instead of proceeding as told, Xu Chuanchuan slid out of bed, leaving Murong Shi partially undressed on the bed. Then, she walked to the wardrobe with her bare feet and began rummaging through it.


    Murong Shi sat up on the bed and looked at Xu Chuanchuan in confusion. "What are you looking for?"


    Less than half a minuteter, Xu Chuanchuan ran back to the bed with a few pieces of ck fabric and straps in her hands. Then, she smiled and said, "I nearly forgot about the cat costume I bought you."


    "..."


    The costume retained a faint scent ofundry detergent after being washed. The fabric also felt pleasant to the touch. The decorative tail, in particr, felt very fluffy and realistic. While rubbing her face against the furry tail, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It feels so soft and nice."


    "..." Murong Shi let out a helpless sigh. Then, she extended a hand and said, "Give it to me, then."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan deliberately avoided Murong Shi and excitedly said, "I''ll help you put it on!"


    Murong Shi had already promised to wear the costume, so she took the initiative to strip herself naked and let Xu Chuanchuan "tie" those pieces of fabric to her body.


    With Murong Shi''s willing cooperation, it took no time at all for Xu Chuanchuan toplete Murong Shi''s "transformation."


    The cat costume gave Murong Shi a truly sultry look. The ears on her head and the tail on her buttocks were especially eye-catching. And although Murong Shi had initially protested against wearing the ears and tail, as they were the costume''s highlights, Xu Chuanchuan put them on her regardless of her opinion.


    After getting a full view of Murong Shi''s attire, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but gulp and eximed, "How beautiful. I don''t even dare to touch you now."


    Murong Shi disliked fur. Even though the tail was loosely hanging off of her waist, she felt as if a heavy object was tied to her back. She also couldn''t help but stiffen when the furry thing brushed against her bare skin. Then, while maintaining a smile on her face, she asked, "I''ve worn it already. Can I take it off now?"


    "No can do! You haven''t performed yet!"


    "Perform?"


    While tiptoeing and touching the cat ears on Murong Shi''s head, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Now that you''re wearing a cat costume, of course you need to act like a cat. Otherwise, what''s the point of buying this thing?"


    "So this is your true goal," Murong Shi said, the corners of her mouth twitching.


    Xu Chuanchuan did not refute Murong Shi''s words. While sliding a finger across Murong Shi''s attractive corbone, she said, "Come, meow like a cat."


    "..."


    "Come on,e on~ I know you''re skilled at it~" Xu Chuanchuan said as she scratched Murong Shi''s chin as if she were ying with a cat.


    Murong Shi''s throat moved a little as she grabbed her lover''s misbehaving hand. Then, she bent her knees, put her mouth right beside Xu Chuanchuan''s ear, and softly purred.


    "Did you enjoy it?" Murong Shi asked.


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly felt her entire body heating up, and she hurriedly nodded her head.


    Murong Shi softly smiled at this sight. Then, she held Xu Chuanchuan''s head with both hands and began gently licking Xu Chuanchuan''s lips, nose, eyes, and face before returning to her lips once more

 Chapter 89: Pt.2

    Chapter 89: Pt.2


    Murong Shi softly smiled and began gently licking Xu Chuanchuan''s lips, nose, eyes, and face before returning to her lips once more


    After this cycle repeated several times, Xu Chuanchuan finally couldn''t bear the numbing experience as she said, "Stop, stop, stopI''m telling you to mimic a cat, not a dog. Why do you keep on licking me?"


    "Cats also lick whoever they like."


    "In that case, cats also like to lick themselves," Xu Chuanchuan said before circling her lips with her tongue.


    Murong Shi was momentarily rendered speechless by this sight. Then, she turned around, climbed onto the bed, and curled into a bundle.


    Confused by this situation, Xu Chuanchuan got onto the bed as well and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "I''m sleeping," Murong Shi ndly said."


    <em>Is she mimicking the way cats sleep? Even so, this posture isquite tempting</em>


    <em>But is she really going to sleep, just like that?</em> Feeling that the mood had taken a strange turn, Xu Chuanchuan carefully asked, "Are you upset?"


    "No."


    "Then, why are you"


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could finish speaking, something furry appeared in front of her. To be precise, it was Murong Shi holding up the furry tail of her costume.


    "How did ite off?" Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened at this sight. When she grabbed the tail and tried to put it back on for Murong Shi, she found that a certain someone had used brute force to tear off the straps used to tie the tail. "You broke it?"


    "Its quality is too poor," Murong Shi nonchntly said.


    "Did you do it on purpose?"


    Looking away, Murong Shi said, "It feels a lot better now."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think that Murong Shi would be so against furry things. However, when she nced at Murong Shi''s naked butt, she quickly threw the tail aside without hesitation.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi switched to a more sultry posture on the bed. Then, looking up at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi licked her lips and spoke in a soft voice, "Master, are you still ying?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had seen Murong Shi''s arrogant and domineering appearance before. She had also seen Murong Shi''s cute appearance when thetter was jealous. However, never had she seen her lover''s current appearance. Even though she had told Murong Shi to y the role of a cat, she couldn''t help but feel as if the other party was a vixen trying to tempt her soul.


    Xu Chuanchuan was dumbfounded. After swallowing the saliva in her mouth with an audible gulp, she opened her arms and pounced forward. "Yes!"


    A certain passionate member of the reader group: "Lord, it''s noon already! Wake up and start writing! I''m still waiting for your double release today! @I Love Mtang


    When this message appeared in Xu Chuanchuan''s reader group, Xu Chuanchuan herself was still sleeping like a log. After all, she had truly exhausted herselfst night, so much so that she didn''t even realize a certain someone had put on a pair of cat ears on her head.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hair was in a mess after a night''s sleep, so Murong Shi thought to help her tidy it up. However, as soon as she touched Xu Chuanchuan''s hair, thetter groaned and turned her body to the other side. In the process of doing so, Xu Chuanchuan had lifted the nket covering her body, exposing her round, petit buttocks.


    Unable to help herself, Murong Shi extended a hand and gave them a flick.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan remained asleep.


    Seeing this, Murong Shi turned the air conditioner to a warmer temperature, grabbed the discarded cat tail, put it on Xu Chuanchuan''s butt, and took a few pictures with her phone. Then, she leisurely left the room to take a shower.


    Xu Chuanchuan continued sleeping until it was two in the afternoon. However, after taking a shower, she quicklyid back on the bed due to her aching back.


    "Stop sleeping," Murong Shi said as she pulled Xu Chuanchuan out of bed.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan nted her body to one side and copsed back into the bed. Then, she weakly said, "I regret it."


    "What do you regret?"


    While resentfully looking at Murong Shi with two dark circles under her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I regret buying that costume."


    Xu Chuanchuan had confidently proimed that she would be the one pushing down Murong Shist night. Yet, in the endthose thin straps had ended up bing tools that bound her limbs. Xu Chuanchuan also never thought that apart from tickling people, the cat tail could also be used for


    Moreover, even though Xu Chuanchuan had only made Murong Shi meow like a cat, Murong Shi had made her moan all night in retaliation. She had moaned so much that even her voice had turned hoarse now. Hence, the first thing she did after waking up was to throw the cat costume into the trash can.


    Murong Shi scratched the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s ear, pulling Xu Chuanchuan out of her thoughts. Then, Murong Shi tenderly asked, "Do you want to go out for lunch or order delivery?"


    "Delivery," Xu Chuanchuan said while twisting ufortably on the bed.


    "What are you doing?" Murong Shi asked with aplicated expression as she watched Xu Chuanchuan scratch a certain part of her body.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s short nails and underwear prevented her from scratching her itch. While blushing, she said, "It feels weird inside."


    Murong Shi stripped Xu Chuanchuan''s underwear without giving thetter any time to react. When she noticed that Xu Chuanchuan''s sensitive parts had swelled up, her expression turned serious as she asked, "Is it very itchy?"


    "No It''s just I think there''s something inside"


    "Stop moving and let me take a look," Murong Shi ordered as she pried open Xu Chuanchuan''s legs. Then, she began conducting a careful inspection, her actions causing Xu Chuanchuan''s face to turn bright red. Partway through, Murong Shi grabbed a cotton swab from the bedside table''s drawer before resuming her actions.


    "Are you not done yet?" Xu Chuanchuan found having to maintain such a posture in broad daylight to be incredibly embarrassing. Yet, Murong Shi refused to let her move.


    Most importantly, even though Murong Shi was prodding her insides without any sexual intent, Xu Chuanchuan found that she was actually reacting


    Several minutester, Murong Shi lifted her head and raised the cotton swab in her hand. Upon taking a closer look, Xu Chuanchuan found that apart from some suspicious transparent liquid, there was also a suspicious ck strand stuck to the cotton swab.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t even bother to put on her underwear. After propping herself up on the bed, she looked at the ck strand in horror as she asked, "What''s that?"


    Murong Shi pursed her lips and remained silent. After rotating the cotton swab 360 degrees and observing the ck strand for a moment, she said, "I think it''s one of the hairs on that cat tail."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan grabbed the cotton swab and focused her gaze on the ck strand. The strand of hair was half the length of her fingertips. It was much coarser than her own hair, so that was probably why she felt so ufortable.


    "It looks simr. But why would it end up...inside?"


    Murong Shi shook her head.


    "Don''t tell me you stuffed it in?" Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had a bold guess. She had originally tossed the cat tail asidest night. However,ter on, a certain someone suddenly had the bright idea of using the furry tail to "tickle" her breasts." The thing was so effective at tickling that she found herself breaking into tears fromughter.


    Murong Shi chuckled at the usation. Then, she pointed at Xu Chuanchuan''s crotch and frankly said, "Why would I do that? Am I supposed to make a nest inside?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan also found her thoughts to be rather silly. Then, she closed her legs out of embarrassment.


    However, Murong Shi quickly pried apart Xu Chuanchuan''s legs again and said, "Let me see if there are any more left inside."


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly hugged her knees and said, "There''s nothing left, there''s nothing left. I don''t feel any difort anymore."


    "Put on your pants, then," Murnog Shi said, giving a pat on Xu Chuanchuan''s thigh.


    In the end, neither of them figured out how that strand of artificial hair managed to get into that sensitive location. Worried that her lover would get a germ infection, Murong Shi had Xu Chuanchuan wash up once more.


    After this little incident, Xu Chuanchuan finally shrugged off her sleepiness and regained some of her energy. So, she nned to start working on the chapter she owed to her readers. However, when she returned to the room, she found Murong Shi sitting in front of the dressing table and fiddling with something.


    It didn''t seem like Murong Shi was applying makeup or skincare products, so Xu Chuanchuan walked over and curiously asked, "What are you doing?"


    Currently, Murong Shi held a transparent bag that stored a strand of ck hair in her hand. After carefully sealing the bag, Murong Shi preciously put the bag into the bedside table''s drawer, using the seven books Xu Chuanchuan previously gifted her to hold it down.


    Xu Chuanchuan quietly watched as Murong Shi did all of this. Then, she suddenly realized what was going on and hesitantly asked, "Don''t tell me this hair is the one you took out from my"


    Murong Shi leisurely closed the drawer and nodded.


    "Why are you storing it away?" Xu Chuanchuan asked with a strange expression.


    "Take a guess."


    <em>Who could possibly guess what you''re doing? </em>Xu Chuanchuan''splexion switched between red and white. "But that thing is dirty!"


    "What are you afraid of? It''s not like you have a gynecological disease."


    "..."


    When Xu Chuanchuan eventually sat in front of herputer, she hurriedly messaged Ange, saying, "Murong has be very perverted recently."


    Ange: "What? Don''t tell me you two started doing SM?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "......................"


    Ange: "Is that a no?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "How can your brain keep thinking up these NSFW thoughts even though all of your works are prim and proper?"


    Ange: "I''ve been feeling a little empty recently. [Lights a cigarette]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Have you not been talking to Fang Qin?"


    Ange: "Don''t mention her in front of me. We haven''t talked to each other for several days now."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you ignoring her? Fang Qin told me she has feelings for you."


    Ange: "Don''t change the topic. So, are you saying that person is mistreating you?"


    <em>Why do I get the feeling that you''re the one trying to change the topic instead? </em>Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think too deeply into the matter. Quickly, she replied: "No."


    Ange: "Then, how is she perverted? What exactly are you trying to say?"


    <em>Does pulling something out of a person''s sensitive ce and storing it as a keepsake not count as being perverted?</em>


    However, Xu Chuanchuan dared not reveal this matter to Ange.


    After racking her mind for an excuse, Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly typed: "She says she wants to try a maid uniform next time. [Sweat]"


    This wasn''t something Xu Chuanchuan made up. Instead, Murong Shi had personally told her about this just now. Murong Shi had even asked her to buy a maid uniform from Taobao. However, after learning fromst night''s lesson, Xu Chuanchuan adamantly refused toply. After all, even if Murong Shi ended up wearing the uniform, the one to suffer would still be herself.


    Ange: "Uniform y? You two sure know how to have fun."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m innocent. [Cry]"

 Chapter 90: Pt.1

    Chapter 90: Pt.1


    A few dayster, Fang Qin came looking for Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan with a fish tank in hand once more. Then, in a solemn tone, she said, "I''m leaving for another business trip, so I''ll have to trouble you two to take care of them for a few days."


    "Don''t raise them if you don''t have the time to do so," Murong Shi said, giving Fang Qin the cold shoulder.


    Fang Qin tacitly ced the fish tank and fish food at a corner. Then, she said, "I can''t help it. My ssmate is pregnant, and she keeps on worrying about letting her husband go on trips alone with his female assistant. So, she keeps on asking me to supervise her husband."


    Xu Chuanchuan was currently washing the tangerines she and Murong Shi bought when they went out for dinnerst night. When she overheard Murong Shi and Fang Qin''s conversation, she left the bathroom and asked, "How is her husband''s character?"


    Fang Qin grabbed a tangerine from the fruit basket Xu Chuanchuan offered. Then, after taking a bite out of the unpeeled fruit, she said, "He seems like an honest person. He also obediently listens to his wife most of the time. Why? Are you afraid he''ll bully me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t very lucky as the tangerine she grabbed turned out to be a sour one. After biting half of it, she stuffed the remaining half into Murong Shi''s mouth. Then, she said, "It doesn''t matter whether you''re acquaintances or strangers. As a woman traveling alone with a man, you should still be careful. If that friend of yours is so worried, she should just ask a man to apany her husband. Why must she ask you?"


    Fang Qin chuckled after hearing Xu Chuanchuan''sint. Then, she said, "She would like that, but the problem is that apart from her husband, everyone else in thepany is female."


    "Oh, there''s no helping that, then."


    Murong Shi disliked tangerines. Apart from the half-bitten tangerine Xu Chuanchuan fed her, Murong Shi didn''t touch any of the other tangerines. Then, while looking at Fang qin, she asked, "Where will you be going this time?"


    "Don''t tell me it''s Shanghai again?" Xu Chuanchuan made a casual guess.


    Fang Qin spat out the pits into the trash can, sessfully evading the two scorching gazes searing her body. Then, she replied with a perfunctory grunt.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes instantly lit up in excitement. "Really? Shanghai again?"


    Fang Qin looked down, an unnatural look appearing on her face as she exined, "We went to Shanghaist time to sign a contract with a business partner. This time, we''re going to talk about something else."


    "You must be feeling very happy, then," Murong Shi indifferently said.


    Rolling her eyes, Fang Qin said, "Business trips are exhausting. What''s there to be happy about?"


    While wiping the juice on Xu Chuanchuan''s hand with a napkin, Murong Shi suggestively said, "You get to use this trip to meet a certain someone. Doesn''t this match with your wishes?"


    Xu Chuanchuan instantly understood what Murong Shi was trying to imply. So, she smiled and followed up, "That''s right. Ange''s is in Shanghai. You get to go and meet her again."


    Fang Qin was rendered utterly powerless against Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan''s joint assault. Looking away, she muttered, "I''m going there for work. Where would I find the time to meet her?"


    "You speak as if you weren''t there for workst time," Murong Shi said, sneering.


    Murong Shi''s words had rendered Fang Qin utterly speechless, and her face switched between red and white.


    Looking at Fang Qin''s twisted look, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly remembered the conversation she had with Angest time. Then, she cautiously said, "I heard from Ange that you two haven''t talked for a few days now. I tried to ask her why, but she kept on avoiding the topic. Weren''t you two getting along fine before? Did you two have a falling out?"


    "There''s nothing going on between us, so what''s there to argue about?" Fang Qin said, shrugging and pretending to be calm. "It''s mostly because we don''t have amon topic to talk about."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned for a moment. Then, she asked, "Have you two not found amon topic yet?"


    Fang Qin let out a groan upon hearing this question. Then, she evasively said, "We were getting along just fine a few days ago. We talked about a lot of things, but after our conversation reached a certain point, she suddenly started ignoring me. This situation continued for several days, and even until now, she is still ignoring the messages I send her. I don''t know if it''s she isn''t logging into WeChat or doing it on purpose."


    Judging by the conversation she had with Ange a few days ago, it was obvious Ange was deliberately ignoring Fang Qin. However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t figure out why her friend was doing so.


    "What did you two talk about that night?"


    "We just...had a casual chat."


    "Then, she started ignoring you the next day?" Xu Chuanchuan found this situation incredulous. She kept on getting the feeling that Fang Qin was hiding something.


    Unable to endure the pressure of Xu Chuanchuan''s stare, Fang Qin excused herself to go to the bathroom. When she returned, she forcibly changed the subject and talked about something else.


    Seeing that Fang Qin refused to borate on the matter, Xu Chuanchuan also tactfully stopped her probing.


    Fang Qin didn''t stay for too long, leaving the dormitory before the sky darkened.


    After getting into her car, Fang Qin did not rush to drive away. While letting the air conditioner cool her face, she pulled out her phone and opened up her chat history with Fang Qin. Then, she focused her attention on thest few messages they exchanged.


    Tang Xin: "How many girlfriends did you have before?"


    Fang Qin: "Just one. We were together for three years, and I apanied her to Ennd. Afterward, she dumped me."


    Tang Xin: "Three years. That''s quite loyal of you."


    Fang Qin: "Hehe."


    Tang Xin: "Do you still have feelings for her now?"


    Fang Qin: "I would sometimes think of her, but I know it''s impossible for us. I can''t keep being obsessed with the past, either."


    Tang Xin: "Oh."


    Afterward, the chat log turned into a unteral conversation consisting of greeting messages from Fang Qin such as "Good morning," "Are you awake." and "Are you busy." Even Fang Qin herself found these messages to be annoying, let alone Tang Xin.


    After receiving no replies for three days, Fang Qin gradually realized that Tang Xin was giving her the cold shoulder, so she tacitly stopped bothering the other party. However, Fang Qin couldn''t help but wonder if Tang Xin was ignoring her because the other party had gotten bored with her or because she had identally said something wrong.


    During the past few days, Fang Qin had checked the contents of their conversation and thought over her messages over and over. At one point, she had considered that her "I would sometimes think of her" had caused Tang Xin to misunderstand.


    <em>But didn''t I also mention that I didn''t wish to continue obsessing over my ex and that I wanted to look forward? Is this hint not obvious enough?</em>


    Apart from the intimate contact they shared that one night, they rarelymunicated with each other. So, Fang Qin often found herself asking whether her obsession toward Tang Xin really was because of love or if she was just feeling guilty.


    Regardless of the reason, Fang Qin was certain she wasn''t fooling around. She had always been serious about matters concerning her feelings, and she wasn''t afraid to put in the effort for a rtionship. However, she couldn''t help but feel anxious over Tang Xin''s erratic attitude toward her.


    ...


    After Fang Qin left, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi still sat beside each other on the living room sofa.


    While gnawing on a tangerine, Xu Chuanchuan tilted her head and muttered, "Do you think Fang Qin will go find Ange this time. She might not have said it, but I keep feeling that Fang Qin still can''t let go of Ange."


    "Of all the people she could''ve taken a liking to, she had to choose Tang Xin. She''s definitely going to suffer in the future," Murong Shi ridiculed.


    "What do you mean?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, sitting upright and looking Murong Shi straight in the eyes.


    "Nothing. You''ll just get upset if I say it."


    "How would you know if I''ll get upset without even saying it?"


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "You might say that I''m biased, but in my opinion, Tang Xin is a cunning woman. Her words cannot be fully trusted. Fang Qin, on the other hand, is a straightforward person. So long as she finds someone she likes, she will pursue them without hesitation. Honestly, I''m a little worried for her."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt a little dissatisfied with Murong Shi''s evaluation of Ange. However, she chose to hold back her dissatisfaction to avoid having an argument. Then, she asked, "What are you worried about?"


    Looking into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, Murong Shi put on a serious expression and said, "If Tang Xin is as merciless as Fang Qin''s ex, Fang Qin will probably lose her mind."


    Xu Chuanchuan opened her mouth and thought to argue on her friend''s behalf. However, she suddenly thought of something: Ange had dumped Fragrant Citrus before.


    Moreover, that wasn''t all Ange had done. To protect Xu Chuanchuan, Ange called out Fragrant Citrus on Weibo before. And because of this incident, many of Fragrant Citrus''s fans had gone to Ange''s Weibo and cursed her for being heartless. Some even cursed her for being an unfaithful person. It was fortunate that Ange had a sufficientlyrge number of fans. Otherwise, Fragrant Citrus''s brain-dead fans would''ve long since drowned her in curses.


    However, although Ange had a history of dumping someone, that person was the notorious Fragrant Citrus. Fang Qin waspletely different from Fragrant Citrus.


    After hesitating for some time, Xu Chuanchuan sighed and said, "After hearing what you said, I suddenly feel that the possibility of them getting together is very small. Not to mention, one of them is living in S City, while the other is living in Shanghai."


    "Fang Qin is a person who can abandon her work and parents and move to Ennd just to be with that woman. How can the measly distance between S City and Shanghai stop her?" Murong Shi said, shaking her head in disagreement.


    Xu Chuanchuan stuffed a whole tangerine into her mouth, causing her right cheek to bulge. Then, with firm eyes, she said, "That''s why we need to help them."


    "What if Tang Xin doesn''t like Fang Qin?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily stunned. Then, in an uncertain tone, she said, "She should like her, right?"


    "Should?" Murong Shi raised an eyebrow.


    "From my understanding of Ange, if she''s not interested in someone, she wouldn''t even bother with them. If she doesn''t like Fang Qin, there''s no way she would talk to Fang Qin for so long."


    "But she''s ignoring Fang Qin now," Murong Shi added.


    Xu Chuanchuan had no words to counter.


    "But I also can''t say for certain if she''s pulling some kind of abandonment y."


    Xu Chuanchuan became even more speechless after hearing this. Then, she found the biggest tangerine, stuffed it into Murong Shi''s mouth, and said, "You''re just being biased against Ange!"


    Murong Shi did not deny Xu Chuanchuan''s usations. After taking her time chewing and swallowing the tangerine, she said, "I previously taught Fang Qin a method. I wonder if she used it yet?"


    "What method?"


    "Take a guess."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan grew irritated. "Forget I asked. I''m going to work."


    "Why the sudden tantrum?" Murong Shi chuckled as she pulled Xu Chuanchuan back.


    Xu Chuanchuan went with the flow and sat on Murong Shi''sp. Then, she wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck and pretended to be unhappy as she said, "Hurry up and say it. I''m a busy person."


    "The two of them don''t know each other very well. They also livepletely different lifestyles, so it''ll be difficult for them to find amon topic. That is unless they change their identities."


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes in confusion, failing to understand Murong Shi''s words.


    Murong Shi didn''t leave Xu Chuanchuan hanging as she continued, "I told Fang Qin that she could sneak into Ange''s reader group while pretending to be a fan. Then, she could use the author-reader interactions to familiarize herself with Ange."


    Xu Chuanchuan gaped in shock when she heard Murong Shi''s words. "This is your bright idea???"


    "Is it not good?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but recall the time "Passerby Shi" had yed her for a fool. Herplexion instantly darkened, and she tried to headbutt Murong Shi. "How is that good?! I''ll knock those stupid ideas out of your head!"


    ...


    When Xu Chuanchuan eventually returned to the room and turned on herputer, she couldn''t help but recall Murong Shi''s previous words. Unable to hold back her curiosity, she visited jjwxc''s website and searched for Ange''s books.


    If Fang Qin really employed Murong Shi''s method, there was a high possibility she would rampantly make donations to Ange.

 Chapter 90: Pt.2

    Chapter 90: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan quickly looked through the donation rankings of Ange''s books. However, even after looking through the top rankings, she failed to find an ID that could potentially belong to Fang Qin. As for the lower rankings, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t have the time to look through all of them. She also didn''t find it necessary to do so. After all, Ange was a famous author, and she received a ton of donations every day. Unless Fang Qin made a big donation, there was no way she could attract Ange''s attention.


    For this reason, Xu Chuanchuan had previously said that Murong Shi''s idea was a terrible one.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help but worry Fang Qin would do something foolish, so she picked up her phone and sent Fang Qin a message. Xu Chuanchuan asked Fang Qin if she had already created a reader ount and made donations to Ange.


    Fang Qin: "No. She doesn''t seem like shecks money in the first ce, so I wrote a few long reviews instead. I received a few red packets from herter on, though I don''t know what they''re for."


    Xu Chuanchuan found it difficult to exin jjwxc''s rules through WeChat, so she dismissed her thought of doing so. Instead, she gave Fang Qin a warning, saying: "You mustn''t learn from Murong. Ange has a huge temper. If she finds out you tricked her, she''ll probably ignore you for the rest of her life."


    Fang Qin: "I know. Thank you."


    After ending her conversation with Fang Qin, Xu Chuanchuan sent Ange a message, saying: "Fang Qin''s going to Shanghai tomorrow."


    Ange: "Oh. What does that have to do with me?"


    <em>Oh? Isn''t this a little too cold? </em>Finding herself in the mood to tease her friend, Xu Chuanchuan said: "She might go and find you."


    Ange: "For what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That, I do not know. I''m going to start writing. Do you want to join?"


    Ange: "You start first. I''m going to take a shower.''


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Okay."


    After closing the chat window, Xu Chuanchuan heard footstepsing from behind. Turning around, she found Murong Shi walking into the room, so she said, "I told Ange about Fang Qin. Her reaction seems kind of nd. I really can''t tell what she''s thinking."


    While helping Xu Chuanchuan adjust her crooked back pillow, Murong Shi said, "You''re the very definition of ''the emperor is not worried, but his eunuchs are worried to death.''"[1]


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi was right, so she pursed her lips and stopped speaking.


    In reality, the "emperor" wasn''t as calm as she showed herself to be.


    Ange''s heart had thumped when she learned that Fang Qin would be visiting Shanghai. Simultaneously, she thought to herself, <em>Why is sheing here again?</em>


    Then, when Ange saw Xu Chuanchuan mentioning that Fang Qin might visit her, she could no longer sit still.


    Some days ago, Ange had unintentionally asked Fang Qin about her past rtionships, to which Fang Qin had frankly replied. When Ange saw Fang Qin mentioning that she had been together with her ex-girlfriend for three years, Ange might have said that Fang Qin was loyal on the surface, but her mind at the time had been thinking about an entirely different matter.


    To be precise, the incident that had taken ce on that absurd night had surfaced in Ange''s mind once more.


    Fang Qin was the one who initiated the kiss that night. The kiss had happened too suddenly back then. Apart from her thunderous heartbeat, Ange failed to hear anything else as all of her senses had been concentrated on her sealed mouth at the time. Then, amidst her stupor, she felt a soft tongue frenziedly invading her mouth and stealing her breath.


    Looking back at it now, Ange found that the kiss had not been tender at all. Instead, the kiss carried a hint of drunkenness and impatience.


    That was, after all, her first kiss. So, Ange didn''t know how to respond at the time. The only thing she knew what to do back then was to embrace the person in front of her.


    Although impatient, Fang Qin did not hurt her. Be it licking, prodding, or sucking, Fang Qin showed herself to be skillful in everything. So, it took no time at all for Ange to feel a fire lit within her.


    Then, before she knew it, Ange had found herself pushed onto the bed.


    When Fang Qin''s hot breath mixed with the smell of alcohol hit her sensitive neck, Ange felt her entire body going limp. Then, she heard a drunken whisper entering her ears, saying, "You smell nice."


    It was a very frivolousment, yet Ange didn''t get angry in the slightest. She felt she was in a dream, and this dream felt incredibly unrealistic. However, while this dream wasn''t beautiful, she found herself reluctant to wake up from it.


    Eventually, when Ange felt Fang Qin''s searing hands expertly making their way into her clothing, her eyes snapped open. Then, when she saw the unfamiliar woman in front of her, she felt as if she had just woken from a dream...


    More than a month had already gone by since this incident. Ange had tried many times to forget about it, yet whenever Fang Qin sent her a message, her mind would inadvertently recall that moment.


    All of this was happening because of her desires. This was the conclusion Ange came to after pondering about this problem for a long time.


    Ange didn''t believe in the so-called love at first sight. The reason why she couldn''t forget about that night was that the fire lit in her body had yet to bepletely extinguished. Meanwhile, Fang Qin was the source of this me.


    Once a person''s desire was awakened, they couldn''t help themselves from wanting more. So, Ange mustered up her courage to inquire about Fang Qin''s rtionship history and found out that the other party had once dated another woman for three years.


    That also exined why Fang Qin''s actions seemed so skillful that night.


    However, after realizing this fact, Ange had suddenly lost all interest in conversing with Fang Qin, so she ended their conversation and tossed her phone aside. She even ignored the messages the other party sent her for the next several days.


    <em>What should I do if shees to find me tomorrow?</em>


    Ange took out a cigarette and held it in her mouth out of irritation.


    Her table was in a mess, so Ange failed to find her lighter even after searching for a long time. Just as she was about to pull the cigarette out of her mouth, her phone suddenly rang, startling her.


    When Ange picked up her phone and saw that the caller''s number originated from S City, her adrenaline soared, and her body suddenly heated up.


    <em>Is it her? Why would she call at this time? What is she nning to say to me?</em>


    Ange thought up innumerable questions in mere seconds. Even though her phone still rang incessantly, she hesitated to answer it.


    <em>Let''s not answer it. There''s nothing for us to talk about, anyway. Things will just get awkward if we have nothing to talk about.</em>


    Ange hovered her hand over her phone. She had initially thought of declining the call, but when her finger was about to reach the screen, it suddenly moved from the "Decline" button to the "Answer" button.


    "..."


    "Tang Xin, is it you?" A faint sobbing voice came through the phone.


    <em>Why is she crying? Don''t tell me she got drunk again like that night?</em>


    Ange''s heart constricted. Then, she disregarded her thoughts and quickly put the phone by her ear, saying, "Hello?"


    Apanied by a choking sound, the person on the other side said in a voice of desperation, "I miss you. I miss you a lot..."


    <em>What''s going on? We only shared a few conversations, yet she''s already confessing?</em>


    Ange was confused. Her heart also fell into turmoil when she heard the other party''s crying. Then, she wet her dry lips and asked, "Did you overdrink again? Or...did you call the wrong number?"


    "Tang Xin, I love you."


    "..." Ange''s mouth widened, the cigarette in her mouth falling to the ground.


    "Give me another chance, please?" the other party pleaded.


    Ange was stunned. However, she quickly reminded herself that she couldn''t act rashly.


    Biting down on her lip, Ange took in a deep breath and opened her mouth. However, before she could say anything, the other party continued, "It was my mistake before; I was too willful. But that was because I loved you! I didn''t want to lose you! I hate that woman! I was your girlfriend, so why did you talk to her more than you talk to me every day?!"


    <em>Wait, what woman?</em>


    The more Ange listened, the more she felt that something was amiss. Not only did the other party''s voice sound different, but even the content of the other party''s words was strange. Realizing this, Ange moved her phone away from her ear and took a look at the screen, only then did she notice that it was an unknown number.


    <em>This isn''t right. If it''s Fang Qin calling, her name should''ve been indicated as well.</em>


    <em>So, who is this person calling me?</em>


    The heart-piercing crying from the phone pulled Ange''s mind back to reality. After calming herself, she put the phone back to her ear and interrupted the woman''s inexplicable rambling, "Excuse me, but who are you?"


    "Don''t you remember me? It''s me, Citrus."


    "..."


    Ange had failed to identify Fragrant Citrus right away because of the party''s hoarse voice. However, had she paid close attention to the other party''s words, it would''ve been very easy to discern the other party''s identity. Only, Ange never thought that after breaking up for such a long time and cklisting Fragrant Citrus many times, the other party still had the gall to call her again.


    <em>What is wrong with me? Even if Fang Qin had gotten herself drunk, there''s no way she would confess to me.</em> Ange mentally berated herself. Then, she asked in an irritated voice, "What are you crying for?"


    In response, Fragrant Citrus sniffled and repeated, "I love you. I really can''t forget you. Tang Xin, let''s start over again, okay?"


    "..." Ange ended the call without hesitation and cklisted Fragrant Citrus''s new phone number like usual.


    Anger filled Ange after she got harassed by that phone call. So, she tossed her phone aside and went to take a shower.


    When Ange came out of the shower and saw her phone''s indicator shing, she thought Fragrant Citrus had called her using another number. However, when she picked up her phone and unlocked the screen, she found that she had received a message on WeChat instead of a missed call.


    After clicking on the notification and seeing that familiar avatar, the me within her body that she had gone through great lengths to extinguish had ignited once more.


    However, it wasn''t because of anger this time.


    Fang Qin: "I''m flying to Shanghai tomorrow. Chuanchuan asked me to bring you something. I don''t know where you live, so I''ll drop them off at your shop. Go pick it up when you have time."


    <em>Pick it up when I have time? Is she not here to meet me?</em>


    Ange felt an inexplicable sense of disappointment when she saw Fang Qin''s message. Even her actions had turned sluggish as she typed her reply: "Got it."


    After waiting for several minutes and seeing no new messagesing from the other party, Ange put down her phone and went to put on afortable set of pajamas. Then, she sat in front of herputer, tossed aside her thoughts, and began working on her novel.


    The next day, Ange woke up at 8 AM to the ringing of her rm. However, she hadn''t gotten enough rest, and her eyes felt so heavy that she couldn''t even open them. So, she turned off her rm and prepared to go back to sleep.


    Then, suddenly, Ange sat up, grabbed her phone, and checked the time. After making sure she hadn''t overslept, she promptly got out of bed to wash up.


    An hourter, Ange drove her Jeep to her cake shop.


    TL Notes:


    [1]the emperor is not worried, but his eunuchs are worried to death():


    This is a Chinese idiom. It''s a figurative expression stating that the observers are more anxious than the person involved. I chose to trante it literally since I couldn''t think of a better alternative.

 Chapter 91: Pt.1

    Chapter 91: Pt.1


    The cake shop began doing business at 9 AM every day. Ange''s cousin and his wife were busily working in the shop when they suddenly heard the doorbell ringing. Both of them thought that it was a customer here to buy some cakes for breakfast. However, when they turned around, they found that it was their younger cousin/cousin-inw instead.


    "Why are you here?" Ange''s cousin asked.


    Meanwhile, Ange''s cousin-inw looked at Ange''s attire and joked, "You''re dressed so beautifully. Are you preparing to go on a date?"


    Simr to most girls, Ange also liked buying clothes. However, the clothes she bought were mostly loose andfortable. Yet, she wasn''t wearing any of those baggy clothes today. Instead, she had dug through her wardrobe and selected a white dress that gave her a saintly air when worn. To match herdy-like clothing, Ange had even gone through the effort of putting on some light makeup before leaving her house.


    However, Ange started regretting her actions while she was on the way to the cake shop. She felt that her attire looked too deliberate. Yet, she was also toozy to turn around and change her clothing.


    Faced with her cousin-inw''s question, Ange blushed and said, "What date? I just came to help out, seeing as you two have a lot of work."


    Ange''s cousin did not doubt Ange''s words as he passed a tray of eggs to Ange and said, "In that case, help me separate the yolks from the whites."


    Ange wasn''t proficient in the culinary arts. Adding on to the fact that her mind was somewhere else, she kept making mistakes when cracking the eggs. This led her to having to use a pair of chopsticks to pick out the bits of eggshells from the bowl of cracked eggs. Afterward, seeing how clumsy Ange was, her cousin had her help with mopping the floor instead.


    The shop wasn''t big, and it only took a few minutes for Ange to mop the entire shop. After finishing her work, Ange didn''t know what she should do, so she simply sat in front of the cash register and waited.


    Ange waited from 9 AM till noon without meeting the person she was waiting for. After finally running out of patience, she pulled out her phone, opened up her WeChat application, and clicked on Fang Qin''s avatar. She wanted to ask when the other party would deliver the promised item to the shop. However, after pondering over the matter, she quickly dismissed her thoughts.


    <em>She''s bound toe by, so wouldn''t it make me look eager if I message her now?</em>


    At this time, Ange''s cousin-inw came out from the back and just happened to see Ange staring into her phone with a bitter look. So, she said, "The shop can do fine with just your cousin and I. You can go back first if you''re feeling bored."


    However, Ange still wanted to keep on waiting. So, she put down her phone and calmly said, "It''s fine. I don''t have anything better to do at home anyway."


    Shortly afterward, Ange''s cousin returned to the shop with three sets of lunch. As there needed to be someone manning the store, Ange''s cousin had his wife and Ange eat their lunch first.


    The food tasted average, so Ange only took a few bites before setting down her chopsticks and switching ces with her cousin.


    After Ange waited for two more hours with an empty stomach, her waist and legs started feeling sore. Even so, her phone remained silent.


    Finally, Ange ran out of patience. So, she removed her apron and bid goodbye to her cousin and cousin-inw.


    The inside of the car had turned into an oven after being parked under the sun for the entire day. After turning the air conditioning to its maximum setting, Ange took out a can of c from the car''s mini-fridge and downed half of the can in an attempt to extinguish her irritation.


    <em>I knew I shouldn''t havee here.</em>


    Unable to finish the rest, Ange put the can of c into a cup holder and began driving back home.


    Later that day, Ange received a call while she was catching up on her lost sleep. She had a heavy head when she woke up to her ringing phone, so she answered the call before she even opened her eyes. Then, she said in annoyance, "Who is it?"


    The other side remained silent for a moment. Then, a tender voice came through the phone, asking, "Are you still sleeping?"


    Ange''s eyes snapped wide open. Then, she looked at her phone''s disy and fell into a daze.


    Failing to get a reply, Fang Qin said, "I''m sorry. I thought you woke up already. I didn''t mean to interrupt your rest."


    It was currently half-past three in the afternoon. Usually, Ange would''ve already been awake at this time, but today''s situation was somewhat special.


    After putting the phone to one side of her ear, Ange calmed down and asked, "What do you want?"


    "I came to Shanghai with my boss for another business trip" Fang Qin paused for a moment. "I''m sorry, but I''m too busy, so I won''t be able to deliver Chuanchuan''s gift today."


    Ange covered her mouth and let out a stifled yawn. Then, she asked in azy tone, "What''s the gift?"


    With all the secrecy behind the gift, Ange couldn''t help but suspect that the gift her friend prepared didn''t exist at all.


    "You''ll know once you see it."


    Ange found the situation even more suspicious upon hearing Fang Qin''s answer, so she simply replied with an "Mhm."


    "I need to work. I''ll visit you once I have time."


    Only after the call got disconnected did Ange realize that something was amiss with Fang Qin''s words.


    <em>Visit me once you have time? For what?</em>


    The next day, Fang Qin still used work as an excuse and said she couldn''t deliver Xu Chuanchuan''s gift. Ange didn''t foolishly wake up and visit the cake shop early in the morning, either.


    On the afternoon of the third day, Ange suddenly received a call from her cousin while she was busy working.


    "There''s a Miss Fang who came by and dropped off something. Do you want toe to collect it yourself, or do you want me to drop it off at your ce after work?"


    <em>There''s really a gift?</em> Hurriedly, Ange asked, "What is it?"


    "It''s well-packed, so I can''t tell what''s inside."


    Ange failed to get an answer from Xu Chuanchuan even after asking about the giftst night. So, she was even more curious after hearing her cousin''s description. After thinking about it for a moment, she said, "I''ll go pick it up."


    After changing into some casual clothing, Ange grabbed her phone and car keys. However, when she left her home and saw that it was pouring outside, she quickly went back inside to grab an umbre.


    Traffic was terrible because of the rain. Fortunately, the cake shop wasn''t far from her home, so Ange reached it after a ten-minute drive. After rushing into the shop under her umbre, she shook the rain that had sshed onto her hair. Then, she sighed and muttered, "What heavy rain."


    <em>I should''ve just stayed at home if I knew the rain was </em>this <em>bad. Even my shoes and pants are wet now.</em>


    While mumbling aint in her heart, Ange looked up and saw someone in an even more miserable state than her. And upon recognizing this person''s face, she couldn''t help but be stunned.


    "You still haven''t left?" Ange asked in surprise.


    Fang Qin was practically drenched, and she was currently wiping the rainwater on her face with a napkin. When she met Ange''s eyes, she smiled and said, "Hi."


    "Hi" Ange responded, her mind filled with a lot of questions.


    A small bucket was ced beside the entrance, and it was meant to hold the umbres brought by customers on rainy days. After Ange tossed her umbre into the bucket, she noticed that there was a broken umbre inside it as well. "Whose umbre is this?"


    "It''s mine," Fang Qin reported in embarrassment. After pulling apart the wet hair that was blocking her vision, she continued, "I was originally nning on heading to the airport, but it suddenly started pouring while I was looking for a taxi. So, I ran into the mall next door to buy an umbre. However, I didn''t expect its quality to be so terrible that it would break as soon as it got hit by a strong wind. Afterward, I ended up in my current state. The rain was too heavy for me to leave, either, so I had no choice but toe here for shelter."


    <em>No wonder. This rain came at an impable timing,</em> Ange thought.


    At this time, Ange''s cousin-inw spoke up from the cashier, saying, "I heard that a typhoon is hitting us today. With such heavy rain, I don''t think any nes can take off."


    Hearing this, Fang Qin turned around and revealed a bitter smile, saying, "You really hit the mark. I just received a message saying that my flight got canceled."


    Then, Ange''s cousin-inw said, "In that case, you should hurry up and find a hotel to change out of those wet clothes."


    "Mhm. I''ll do that once the rain lets up a little."


    Fang Qin looked like she had just taken a dip into a swimming pool. Water could be seen dripping from her hair and clothing, drenching the cardboard she stood on in no time at all. The suitcase sitting beside her was in an equally soaked and miserable state.


    Ange scrutinized the woman before her with a calm expression before looking at the worsening rain outside. Then, she said, "This rain probably won''t be letting up any time soon. You can''t possibly stay in these wet clothes for hours, right? How about"


    "Hm?"


    Ange suddenly noticed that Fang Qin didn''t seem to like putting on makeup, either. Ange didn''t know if it was intentional, but Fang Qin happened to be wearing the Cartier earrings fashioned with blue gemstones today. And upon seeing these earrings, Ange found herself inadvertently recalling that night.


    Ange''s heart thumped. Then, she turned away to avoid Fang Qin''s gaze and said, "How about I drop you off in my car?"


    Ange spoke in a voice much softer than the noisy rain outside. Even so, Fang Qin still managed to hear Ange, and she couldn''t help but be surprised. However, without thinking too much over the matter, Fang Qin smiled and asked, "Will that be convenient?"


    "I''ll be leaving after I pick up the package, anyway."


    Hearing that it wouldn''t be an inconvenience, Fang Qin dly took Ange up on her offer.


    The car was parked outside the cake shop. It was quite cramped for two people to share an umbre, so it was inevitable for some rainwater to ssh on them. After storing the suitcase in the trunk, they quickly got into the car.


    As her pants were drenched, Fang Qin ended up getting her seat wet. Seeing this, she quickly apologized, "Sorry for getting your car wet."


    "It''s fine. It''ll be easy to take care of this," Ange nonchntly said.


    Fang Qin did her best to avoid getting the backrest wet as well. Then, while looking at the heavy rain outside, she said, "Is there a hotel nearby? Give me a minute; I''ll look it up online."


    Ange was quite familiar with the area, so she said, "No need to check; there''s one up ahead."


    Fang Qin stopped searching for her phone and sat upright in her seat.


    After a five-minute drive, the silhouette of a hotel appeared some distance ahead of the car. As the car slowed down, Fang Qin prepared herself to recite the word of gratitude she thought up previously. However, before she could speak up, the car suddenly elerated and drove past the hotel.


    Fang Qin initially thought Ange was trying to find a suitable parking spot. However, contrary to her expectations, Ange said, "Let''s head to my ce instead."


    "What did you say?" For a moment, Fang Qin suspected that water had gotten into her ears.


    Ange felt like she was sitting on pins and needles when she felt Fang Qin''s gazending on her. However, pretending to be calm, she said, "My house is just ahead."


    "..."


    The rest of the trip continued in silence.

 Chapter 91: Pt.2

    Chapter 91: Pt.2


    Ange''s cats and dog incessantly hissed and barked at Fang Qin, showing wariness against the stranger that had intruded on their home. Fang Qin liked animals, and she thought to pet and hug the agitated animals in front of her. However, she refrained from doing so after considering that her body was covered in water.


    Ange thought that she would feel more at ease once she returned to her home. Unfortunately, the situation was different from what she had imagined.


    Unable to pet the animals, Fang Qin crouched down and coaxed Ritian using a childish tone. In doing so, she stretched the back of her wet shirt, causing it to stick to her body and reveal her ck underwear and slim waist to the person behind her. And upon seeing this, Ange instantly felt her face heating up.


    Fang Qin remained ignorant of Ange''s peeping. While facing the Poodle in front of her, she smiled and asked, "It''s so cute. What''s its name?"


    Ange quickly snapped out of her daze and cleared her throat before saying, "Ritian."


    Surprised by the vulgar name, Fang Qin turned around and looked at Ange.


    "Hurry up and change your clothes," Ange said, turning her head away in embarrassment.


    Only the master bedroom came with its own bathroom, so Ange had Fang Qin use the shared bathroom outside while Ange herself returned to her room. Ange didn''t get herself dirty during her short trip out, so she left her room after changing into a set of home clothes.


    Unable to help herself, Ange took a look at the shared bathroom''s door after leaving her room. Coincidentally, the door opened at this time. Then, before Ange could look away, a soaked head popped out from the crack in the door and asked her, "I want to take a shower. Can I use your shampoo and shower gel?"


    Fang Qin didn''t hide herself well, so Ange identally caught sight of the other party''s bare shoulders. While awkwardly shifting her gaze away, she said, "Use whatever you want."


    "Thank you."


    Then, the door shut with a bang.


    Several secondster, the sound of flowing water came through the bathroom door.


    Ange let out a long sigh and made her way to the sofa. Then, she began taking apart the gift Xu Chuanchuan prepared for her.


    With how mysterious Xu Chuanchuan spoke about the gift, Ange couldn''t help but wonder what kind of strange gift her friend had prepared. Then, when she opened the parcel and saw the thorny ball in front of her, she couldn''t help but be rendered speechless.


    After carefully taking the cactus ball out of the box, Ange took a picture of it and sent the picture to Xu Chuanchuan via QQ: "Why did you have her travel all the way to Shanghai to bring me such a thing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Do you like it?"


    Ange: "[Sweat]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "For people like us who work in front of aputer all day, having a few cactus balls on the table will help absorb radiation. See how considerate I am toward you?"


    Ange: "Don''t give me that. I bet you did it on purpose."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Okay, okay, I admit that I have ulterior motives, but I only did it for your own good. Did Fang Qin visit you? Have you two met up yet? Did you two have a good chat?"


    Ange did not wish to answer even one of the three questions posed. After ncing in the bathroom''s direction, she evasively answered, "What a hardworking Cupid you are."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Hehe, this is my first time ying matchmaker. It''s good so long as I managed to help you two. This is a rare opportunity, so you need to use it well."


    "..."


    After reading Xu Chuanchuan''s message, Ange couldn''t help herself from looking toward the bathroom''s direction once more. Even though she couldn''t see anything through the frosted door, her body still inexplicably warmed up.


    Xu Chuanchuan had used her restroom break to fiddle with her phone. After not receiving a reply from Ange for some time, she dared not waste any more time. So, she left the stall, washed her hands, and made her way back to her office.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s mind was filled with thoughts regarding Ange and Fang Qin''s matter as she walked through the corridor. When she passed by a certain office, the office''s doors suddenly opened. Then, a hand stretched out of it and pulled her into the room.


    "Ahh"


    Xu Chuanchuan found herself crashing into a soft embrace amidst her shock. When she smelled the familiar scent, she struggled to look up and saw Murong Shi''s smiling face. Then, after calming her breath, she shoved Murong Shi away and said, "You scared me!"


    "You looked like you were distracted just now. What were you thinking about?" Murong Shi teased.


    After calming her mind, Xu Chuanchuan told Murong Shi about Fang Qin and Ange''s matter. Then, she anxiously said, "I don''t know if I can help them this time."


    Pinching her lover''s pale cheeks, Murong Shi said, "You don''t need to worry so much. From my understanding of Fang Qin, once she falls for someone, she will do whatever it takes to secure that person. This is something she is very good at."


    "Is that so? ThenUu..." Xu Chuanchuan''s lips were sealed before she could finish speaking.


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know when it began, but she came to realize that Murong Shi liked having love affairs with her in the office. In truth, Xu Chuanchuan also liked the nerve-racking and exciting feeling. However, she still felt that such daring actions were absurd. After all, she was merely a small-time employee in thepany.


    However, Murong Shi did not share her lover''s worries. It didn''t matter what she did in thepany. Nobody would dare say anything about her actions. Hence, she had no scruples with doing such bold actions.


    At one time in the past, the two of them had gotten into the mood after sharing a kiss in the office. Murong Shi had even pressed Xu Chuanchuan down on the sofa and nearly stripped thetter''s clothing. However, Linda knocked on the door at a critical moment, nearly scaring the living daylights out of Xu Chuanchuan. After that incident, Xu Chuanchuan thoroughly refused to let Murong Shi touch her while kissing in the office.


    The kiss they currently shared was light, so Xu Chuanchuan maintained her consciousness at all times. After feeling that she was reaching her limit, she pushed Murong Shi away and red at thetter with her watery eyes, saying, "The others are going to grow suspicious if I still don''t go back."


    Murong Shi disliked having her passionate moments with her lover interrupted the most. While using her thumb to wipe away the saliva on Xu Chuanchuan''s lips, Murong Shi said, "I''ve been thinking of something for the past few days."


    "What is it?"


    "Why don''t I make you into my assistant instead? That way, I get to look at you at all times."


    "No," Xu Chuanchuan rejected without even thinking.


    "I hold the final decision in thispany. I can make use of anyone I want, so why not?"


    "You''ll definitely be an indulgent ruler if you be an emperor."


    "How so?"


    Pointing a finger at Murong Shi''s heart, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I know my abilities better than anyone. There''s no way I can handle things as neat and orderly as Linda. I can hardly help you with anything with my limited abilities."


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "You know yourself quite well."


    Xu Chuanchuan snorted at Murong Shi''sment. Then, to salvage her reputation, she said, "I might not be as good as Linda when ites to handling office work, but there''s one thing I''m better at than herI know how to write novels."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help but chuckle when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''sment. Then, she went along with her lover''s words and tried to offer thetter some praise. However, before she could speak up, the ringing of a phone interrupted her.


    "Why is my mother calling me at this hour?" Xu Chuanchuan muttered in confusion as she looked at her phone. Then, she answered the call and said, "Mom?"


    Mother Xu: "Are you at work?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That''s right, I''m at work. What''s the matter?"


    Mother Xu: "It''s nothing. I came across your high school form teacher and her son at the market yesterday. After talking to your teacher, I found out that her son is the same age as you. That young man looks quite refined and has a good temper. They''re also living quite close to us. He is currently working as a civil servant, and his position is quite decent. Most importantly, he doesn''t have a girlfriend."


    Hearing up to this point, Xu Chuanchuan could already predict what her mother was trying to say. So, she hurriedly interrupted and said, "Mom, don''t tell me you want me to have a blind date with him?"


    Murong Shi''s eyes narrowed upon hearing these words.


    In response, Mother Xu sighed and said, "I''m not forcing you to date him. I just think he is a fine young man, so I hope you two can try dating. I''ve already given him your phone number, and he might be giving you a call at night. Have a chat with him at that time. If you two can get along, then continue. If not, no need to force the issue."


    "How can you give away my phone number without my permission?" Xu Chuanchuan anxiously asked.


    "Your form teacher is too enthusiastic, so I couldn''t bring myself to refuse when she asked for it," Mother Xu said in a helpless tone. "Not to mention, I''m not telling you two to meet up. There''s no harm in exchanging a few words, right? Also, you''re not young anymore. Isn''t it normal to start dating at your age?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was momentarily rendered speechless. After looking at Murong Shi''s concerned eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Mom, actually, I already"


    "Don''t act impulsively," Murong Shi reminded when she realized what Xu Chuanchuan was going to say.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    In the meantime, Mother Xu continued, "It''s not that I don''t respect your privacy. It''s just that the other party is your form teacher. It was difficult for me to refuse. No matter what, we should leave each other with some face. If that kid calls you, just answer the call. As for whether you want to date him or not, you can decide that yourself."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Considering that her daughter was still at work, Mother Xu ended the call shortly after.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan put down her phone, looked at Murong Shi for a few seconds, and said, "If I keep hiding like this, my mom might force me to go on a blind date next time."


    "Then, are you prepared?" Murong Shi bluntly asked.


    "I definitely won''t be going."


    "I''m not talking about this," Murong Shi said as she pulled Xu Chuanchuan to the sofa. Then, she solemnly continued, "I''m asking if you are mentally prepared. If you are, then we can frankly tell your mother."


    "I..." Xu Chuanchuan nkly looked at Murong Shi. Then, she shook her head and said, "I don''t know."


    Murong Shi frowned.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly exined, "You know my family''s situation. My parents are both honest and conservative people. My mom has a good temper, but my dad and grandpa are very stubborn. To make matters worse, my dad is the type who isn''t afraid to get physical. If he finds out about us, I think he might beat me to death..."


    "They''ll find out sooner orter."


    This was something Xu Chuanchuan understood. However, she truly wasn''t confident in her family. While she was determined to be together with Murong Shi, she couldn''t bring herself to sever all rtions with her family like Fang Qin.


    "Let me think about it a little longer," Xu Chuanchuan said, biting her lower lip.


    Murong Shi didn''t force the issue.


    When night arrived, the man Mother Xu mentioned really gave Xu Chuanchuan a call.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart raced as she looked at her ringing phone.


    <em>What can I even say to a stranger? </em>Xu Chuanchuan didn''t wish to answer the call. However, it would also be disrespectful to her form teacher if she didn''t answer the call.


    Amidst Xu Chuanchuan''s dilemma, Murong Shi grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s phone and answered the call without giving thetter any time to react. Then, Murong Shi said, "Hello? Who is it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be surprised by this situation. Though, it wasn''t because Murong Shi had answered the call on her behalf. Instead, it was because Murong Shi had deliberately spoken in a rough and muffled voice. If one didn''t pay close attention, one would think that it was a man answering the call.


    <em>Since when did she pick up such a skill?</em>


    Shaking Murong Shi''s arm, Xu Chuanchuan softly asked, "What are you doing?"


    Murong Shi gave Xu Chuanchuan a wink and motioned for her to keep quiet. Then, putting on a sullen face, she said in a low voice, "My girlfriend is busy right now. You can say it to me if you have something to say to her."


    "..." The other party hung up without even saying hello.

 Chapter 92: Pt.1

    Chapter 92: Pt.1


    "Alright, he won''t dare harass you again," Murong Shi said as she put down the phone.


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan rushed forward to inspect Murong Shi''s neck and touch her thin, sexy lips. Then, she curiously asked, "How mysterious. How did you make your voice sound so much like a man?"


    In response, Murong Shi looked down at Xu Chuanchuan and spoke in her low and androgynous voice, "Because I''ve been a man all this time. Haven''t you noticed it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression stiffened. Then, her delicate eyebrows flickered as she looked at the protrusions on Murong Shi''s chest, asking, "Why would a man have suchrge breasts?"


    Putting on a wicked smile, Murong Shi said, "Those are fake. They''re meant to trick you."


    "..." Pushing Murong Shi away, Xu Chuanchuan clicked her tongue and said, "I don''t want you anymore if you''re a man."


    Murong Shi faintly smiled at Xu Chuanchuan''sment. Then, she put on a serious face and said, "Now that I scared that man away, I think your mother will be calling you shortly afterward."


    As Murong Shi expected, Mother Xu''s call arrived ten minutester. As soon as the call connected, Mother Xu got straight to the point and asked, "When did you get yourself a boyfriend? Why didn''t you tell me about it during the day? Your form teacher called me just now and gave me an earful over it. How long have you been with that man already? Is he someone from yourpany? What does he do?"


    Mother Xu said a bunch of things, her tone faintly irritated and anxious. Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt her head aching when she heard her mother''s questions. However, she also knew that her mother must be in an awkward situation to be caught in the middle of this situation.


    Fortunately, Xu Chuanchuan had already thought up an excuse, so she said, "I don''t have a boyfriend. I have no intentions of dating anyone right now. I also don''t have anything to talk to that man. I was worried that things would get awkward between us, so I just tricked him."


    However, Mother Xu wasn''t convinced by this excuse, and she continued, "Why did he say that a man answered the call, then? Why are you together with a man thiste at night?"


    Xu Chuanchuan turned to look at her beautiful "boyfriend" upon hearing her mother''s questions. Then, she said with a straight face, "Ourpany is holding a dinner party tonight, so I had one of my male colleagues answer the call for me."


    The excuse was wless, and Mother Xu couldn''t find anything wrong with it. Even so, she couldn''t help but feel that her daughter''s actions had been rash. "Your form teacher now thinks that we''re messing with them. I don''t think I can bring myself to face her when we meet in the future."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think too much about the consequences of their actions before. After pondering over the matter for a bit, she said, "Then...I''ll give that man a callter and exin the situation to him."


    After ending the call with her mother, Xu Chuanchuan searched up her call history and called back the man''s number. She also switched to speaker mode to let Murong Shi hear the conversation and ease her anxiety.


    The busy tone rang for a long time before the call connected. Sighing in relief, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Hello, I''m Xu Chuanchuan. I''m sorry, my mother didn''t mean to lie to you. It''s all my fault for not telling her that I''m already dating someone. She''s also anxious to find a partner for me, which is what led to this misunderstanding."


    "So that''s the case," the other party said, a hint of regret in his voice. "Since you already have a boyfriend, I won''t bother you anymore."


    With the "misunderstanding" finally resolved, Xu Chuanchuan put down and sighed in relief.


    Seeing that her lover looked as if she had just fought a war, Murong Shi suggested, "Go take a shower if you''re tired."


    "Mhm."


    When she returned to her room after taking a shower, she saw Murong Shi sitting on the bed and chatting with someone on her phone. Noticing the name on the chat window, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Is Fang Qin back already?"


    Making some room for Xu Chuanchuan to sit down, Murong Shi said, "She''s still in Shanghai. A typhoon struck the ce, so her flight got canceled."


    Xu Chuanchuan had seen an article reporting on the typhoon today on Weibo, so she snuggled up beside Murong Shi and said, "Since she can''te back for the time being, I wonder if she will go find Ange?"


    "You''re worrying about others again," Murong Shi said, squeezing Xu Chuanchuan''s moist and shaggy hair.


    "Hey, it''s not easy being a matchmaker," Xu Chuanchuan said, putting an arm around Murong Shi''s waist. "Ange hasn''t replied to any of my messages today. She didn''t even respond to my invitations to write today. I wonder what she''s busy with right now?"


    The next moment, Murong Shi put her phone on the bedside table and sealed her lover''s talkative little mouth.


    "Achoo" Ange let out a sneeze when the cat in her embrace swiped its furry tail across her nose.


    Frightened, the cat jumped out of Ange''s arms and skillfully opened the partially closed door with its paws. Then, it agilely ran out of the master bedroom.


    "I''ve been looking for you. So this is where you went."


    A sweet voice came through the gap of the door, reminding Ange that there was another person in this house.


    A silhouette briefly shed past the door gap, and Ange caught sight of a light-blue skirt fluttering by. However, when she perked up her ears to listen carefully, she only managed to hear the meows and barks of her pets.


    The blue light of theputer reflected on Ange''s pale face.


    Ange had yet to write a single word today. The noises her four pets were making right now only made it even more difficult for her to calm her mind. So, she got up to close the door.


    However, when Ange reached the door, she suddenly let out a cry of surprise when she met a pair of eyes through the door''s gap.


    The person outside the door was simrly given a fright. After retracting the hand holding the doorknob, Fang Qin stiffly smiled and said, "Sorry, I didn''t mean to disturb you. I just wanted to close the door for you."


    The first thing Ange noticed was the snowy-white cat in Fang Qin''s arms. Next, she looked at the other party''s nightgown. The nightgown was blue and opaque. The thin shoulder straps looked a little sexy, and they did nothing to hide Fang Qin''s bony shoulders.


    <em>She''s so thin.</em>


    After just one nce, Ange immediately recalled the bony texture she felt when Fang Qin embraced her. Feeling boiling blood rushing to her head, Ange turned her head away and said, "Have you showered?"


    Fang Qin currently wore a nightgown and had let her hair down. A fragrant scent also diffused from her body. It was obvious that she had showered recently, yet Ange still asked the obvious.


    While petting thezy cat in her arms, Fang Qin said, "Yes. I saw that you were busy, so I decided to shower first."


    <em>Busy? I''ve been staring at myputer for half an hour without typing a single word.</em>


    Ange didn''t follow up with Fang Qin''s words. Instead, she opened the door and walked out of the room.


    Making way for Ange, Fang Qin asked, "Are you going to shower?"


    "No, I''m making a cup of coffee," Ange said as she made her way to the living room. Then, without shifting her line of sight, she asked, "Do you want one?"


    Shaking her head, Fang Qin asked, "You''re drinking coffee thiste at night? Aren''t you afraid that you can''t sleep?"


    "I usually go to bed at three or four o''clock."


    Fang Qin fell into thought for a moment as she stared at the loose shirt covering Ange''s back. Then, she said, "So that''s why you always sleep until noon."


    "Mhm." After grabbing a stick of instant coffee from the refrigerator, Ange made her way to the water dispenser. Throughout this process, she dared not look at Fang Qin even once.


    "It''s not good for girls to stay upte all the time."


    "I know. You''ll get old quickly if you do that," Fang Qin said with a carefree smile.


    Fang Qin stared intently at Ange''s face.


    Upon taking a closer look, Fang Qin found that Ange''s skin was surprisingly thin and void of any pores. Ange also had a very pale skin color, so pale that it gave off an unhealthy feeling. This was probably because Ange stayed cooped up in her home all year round. At this point, Ange''s skin looked like that of a porcin doll''s, and Fang Qin felt that it would break at the slightest touch. Ange also had thin, pale lips and long eyshes. Combined with her dull eyes, her face exuded a sense of indifference.


    After a long time, Fang Qin said, "Your skin looks tender."


    Ange''s hands shook upon hearing Fang Qin''sment, nearly spilling some of the coffee powder onto the floor.


    After gently letting down the cat in her arms, Fang Qin asked, "How old are you?"


    After pouring the rest of the instant mix into the cup, Ange did not hurry to fill the cup with water. Instead, she turned around and jokingly asked, "Why? Are you trying to check my household registration?"


    Fang Qin looked Ange in the eye and politely smiled, saying, "I''m just asking casually. You don''t have to say it if you don''t want to."


    Ange''s eyes flickered. Then, she turned away and said, "I''m younger than you."


    "I''m 27."


    Ange did not reciprocate by reporting her age as well. Instead, she began filling her cup with hot water while pretending to be calm and ignoring the prating gaze attempting to pierce through her back.


    "Woof, woof" Suddenly, Ritian came running into the kitchen and started rubbing its head against Ange''s leg.


    Ange''s mind was somewhere else when Ritian assaulted her. Surprised by the sudden physical contact, her hand shook, and hot water sshed onto her hand.


    Fang Qin''s expression turned serious immediately, and she rushed forward to turn off the running water. Then, she asked in a concerned tone, "Are you alright?"


    Ange''s pale skin had turned red hot. After pushing Ritian away, she gritted her teeth in pain and shook her head.


    "Hurry up and rinse it with cold water."


    Ange endured the pain and ran to the bathroom. Fang Qin followed after Ange and helped her turn on the faucet. When Fang Qin saw the burn on Ange''s right hand, a slight frown formed on her face. Then, she turned around and left.


    Several secondster, Ange saw Fang Qin bringing something into the bathroom. Puzzled, she asked, "What''s with the soy sauce?"


    Fang Qin grabbed Ange''s wrist without hesitation.


    Ange was momentarily stunned, and she instinctively retracted her hand.


    Sensing Ange''s resistance, Fang Qin quickly said, "I got scalded in the past. Applying some soy sauce will help with the pain."


    Ange gave up on struggling.


    Seeing this, Fang Qin turned off the faucet, poured some soy sauce into her palm, and grabbed Ange''s injured hand. Then, she leaned forward and blew on the droplets of water stuck on Ange''s hand.


    When Ange saw Fang Qin''s mouth nearing her, she thought the other party nned to kiss her, so she nervously retracted her fingers. However, when she felt Fang Qin''s gentle breath hitting her hand, her heartbeat inadvertently elerated.


    Fang Qin did not notice Ange''s abnormality. Instead, she fully concentrated her attention on applying soy sauce to the back of Ange''s hand.


    In the meantime, Ange shamelessly looked at the thin woman in front of her. She observed the other party''s gentle actions and soft gaze. And when her eyes fell onto the woman''s slightly curved lips, she couldn''t help but fall into a trance...


    "Do you feel better?" Fang Qin''s soothing voice interrupted Ange''s reverie.


    After withdrawing her fluttering emotions, Ange nodded and thanked Fang Qin in an awkward tone.


    "You''re wee," Fang Qin said with a smile. However, she still did not let go of Ange''s hand.


    Ange had also noticed this point but chose not to bring it up. Instead, after a slight pause, she asked, "When will you be leaving?"


    Pretending to be surprised, Fang Qin asked, "Are you chasing me away?"


    ...Am I? Fang Qin was a little muddle-headed right now. Particrly, when she met with fang Qin''s eyes, her brain would lose all rationality. "I''m just asking."


    Fang Qin subconsciously rubbed Ange''s wrist with her thumb. Then, she sullenly asked, "When do you hope for me to leave?"


    "I..." Ange retracted her hand as if she was just scalded by boiling water. "How would I know?"


    After saying so, Ange ran out of the cramped bathroom.


    "What are you running for?" Fang Qin''s confused voice came from behind.


    However, instead of turning around, Ange ran even faster for fear that a certain someone would end up eating her tonight.

 Chapter 92: Pt.2

    Chapter 92: Pt.2


    On a certain night before bedtime, Murong Shi suddenly said, "Come back home with me for a few days."


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan yawned and dazedly asked, "Aren''t we going back this weekend?"


    While helping Xu Chuanchuan fluff up her pillow, Murong Shi said, "It''s my lunar birthday tomorrow."


    Realization dawned upon Xu Chuanchuan when she heard Murong Shi''s reminder. Then, rubbing her eyes, she said, "Okay."


    Afterying down with Xu Chuanchuan in her arms, Murong Shi said, "Actually, I''m not going back for the birthday celebration, but to apany my mom instead."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart tightened upon hearing Murong Shi''s words. Worriedly, she asked, "Did something happen to Auntie?"


    "Her health is fine. It''s just that she gets in a bad mood around this time every year."


    "Why?"


    "Do you remember that I told you I had a twin brother?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded.


    Murong Shi''s eyes dulled for a second. Then, she slowly said, "My mom might look happy when celebrating my birthday every year, but I often find her crying in secret during this day. She''s probably thinking about my short-lived brother."


    Xu Chuanchuan had heard Murong Shi mentioning her twin brother when their rtionship hadn''t been so close before. However, back then, she had refrained from asking too much to ruin the atmosphere between them.


    Xu Chuanchuan rarely ever saw Murong Shi in such a fragile state. After clenching her fists and resolving herself, she looked up and softly asked, "Do you feel sad as well?"


    "Sometimes." While rubbing her chin against Xu Chuanchuan''s soft hair, Murong Shi said, "I once wondered why, despite being twins, he would be so unlucky as to be born with cerebral palsy while I''m living properly. Is it because I bullied him and stole his nutrients while in the stomach, so..."


    Xu Chuanchuan covered Murong Shi''s mouth with her hands, a frown forming on her face. Then, she said, "This is just a matter of probability. It has nothing to do with you, so don''t me yourself."


    In response, Murong Shi kissed the palm of Xu Chuanchuan''s right hand and said, "I''m not ming myself. I just think that life is fragile."


    The next day, the two packed up and returned to the Murong household.


    Aunt Lian had already prepared a hearty meal for them by the time they arrived. Murong Mingshu had personally prepared longevity noodles for them as well. Upon seeing the two bowls of noodles, Xu Chuanchuan secretly sighed as she inadvertently recalled the conversation she had with Murong Shist night.


    Although Murong Mingshu still looked dignified as usual, herplexion was worse than before.


    Shortly after Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan arrived, Sun An returned home as well. After taking a seat at the dining table, he said, "I don''t know what gift you would like, so feel free to ask for whatever you want."


    On Murong Shi''s birthdayst year, Sun An had given her a big gift by transferring 10% of Bright Grid''s shares to her. As for this year, Murong Shi already had an idea what to ask for, so she said, "I think the new real estate at Yonghe is good."


    Sun An immediately understood what Murong Shi was trying to say, so he joviallyughed and said, "Then, I''ll have them save one for you."


    "Little Shi, will you be moving out?" Aunt Lian interjected.


    Xu Chuanchuan also had the same question.


    "Aunt Lian, this is something that will happen sooner orter," Murong Shi said with a smile.


    "But you still haven''t married..."


    Murong Mingshu interrupted at this time and said, "Children will have their own ideas once they''re grown up. I don''t think there''s any conflict between owning a house and marriage."


    Then, Murong Shi added, "I''lle back to visit frequently."


    The meal proceeded smoothly and peacefully, with everyone separating after the meal. Aunt Lian stayed behind to clear the table, Sun An went to the study to work, and Murong Mingshu made her way back to her bedroom.


    However, before Murong Mingshu could leave the dining room, Murong Shi pulled her to the sofa and said, "Chuanchuan and I will watch TV with you."


    "My eyes are a little tired, so I think I''ll go lie down instead," Murong Mingshu said, attempting to get up from the sofa.


    However, Murong Shi refused to let her mother go as she said, "Don''t think that I don''t know. You''re just nning on hiding in your room and crying again."


    Murong Mingshu nced at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, forcing a smile on her face, she said, "What nonsense are you saying?


    Why would I cry on such a good day? Chuanchuan,e, have a banana."


    However, Murong Shi snatched the banana away and said, "We just ate. Eat itter and watch TV for now."


    The show ying on the TV was a pce drama that was trending recently. The birth of a baby boy was shown in the very first episode, and everyone in the pce celebrated in joy.


    Xu Chuanchuan had never watched this drama before, so she didn''t expect such a scenario right off the bat. Afraid that this episode would affect Murong Mingshu''s emotions, Xu Chuanchuan sent Murong Shi a visual signal, asking if there was a need to change the channels.


    Murong Shi reached for the remote controller in response. However, before she could grab it, she heard Murong Mingshu saying, "Don''t change it. Isn''t this show good? Look at how cute and chubby the child is."


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi briefly exchanged nces.


    Then, Murong Mingshu changed the topic and said, "It''s a pity we don''t have any boys in our family."


    Murong Shi''s heart thumped upon hearing this, and she inwardly thought to herself, Here ites.


    While listening to the crying boy on TV, Murong Mingshu turned to look at Murong Shi and smiled, saying, "It would be great if your firstborn in the future is a boy."


    Murong Shi was momentarily stunned. Then, she said, "That might not be the case."


    "I guess you''re right." Revealing a gentle smile, Murong Mingshu said, "Actually, I don''t mind either gender. I like both boys and girls."


    "Mom, I don''t want to have children."


    "Why not? Are you afraid of the pain?" Murong Mingshu asked, stunned.


    Hearing her mother''s questions, Murong Shi turned to look at Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she said, "I just don''t want to give birth. I can''t give birth, anyway."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "You can''t give birth???" Murong Mingshu''s voice suddenly increased by a few decibels. Then, staring at her daughter''s t abdomen, she said, "By the way, you told me you visited a gynecologist some time ago. Did something go wrong?"


    Murong Shi furrowed her brows when she heard her mother''s words. Not sure whether tough or cry, she said, "Mom, what are you talking about? That''s not what I told you back then."


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan patted Murong Mingshu''s shoulder and embarrassingly said, "Auntie, I was the one who went for a check-up. Murong was only apanying me. I had irregr menstruation at the time, though everything is fine now."


    "That gave me a scare." Murong Shi sighed in relief.


    Afraid that her mother would continue discussing children with her, Murong Shi excused herself to the bathroom.


    Late at night


    After publishing her daily update at 11 o''clock and turning off herptop, Xu Chuanchuan found that Murong Shi was staring at her while sitting on the bedside rocking chair. She also noticed that Murong Shi was still wearing the clothes she had on for dinner, so she asked in surprise, "Why haven''t you showered yet?"


    Murong Shi stretched out a hand and beckoned for Xu Chuanchuan to pull her out of the chair. Then, she caressed her lover''s lips with her thumb and meaningfully said, "I was waiting for you."


    "But I''m a little tired today."


    "Let''s have a soak in the tub, then."


    However, halfway through the bath, Murong Shi started growing disobedient.


    The bathtub was huge, so there was more than enough space for the two of them to lie in. After spreading open Xu Chuanchuan''s legs and hanging them on the bathtub''s edge, Murong Shi leaned over to kiss Xu Chuanchuan while exploring Xu Chuanchuan''s lower body with her fingers.


    "Why are you so tight today?"


    Xu Chuanchuan stretched her neck to try and catch her breath. Then, in an uneven breath, she said, "...It''s already been half a month."


    Because of her abnormal period, Xu Chuanchuan had Murong Shi apany her to the hospital for a check-up. The treatment took a long time, and the two of them had restrained themselves from any nighttime action throughout this time.


    Murong Shi smiled and stopped talking. Then, she suddenly forced her way in.


    Xu Chuanchuan gritted her teeth and let out a groan. While rubbing her inner thighs against Murong Shi''s soft waist, she said, "Be gentler."


    Then, Murong Shi began marking Xu Chuanchuan''s body with kisses.


    ...


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi woke up early the following day since they still had to go to work. By the time they arrived at the dining room, Aunt Lian had already prepared a bowl of nourishing porridge for each of them. Murong Mingshu was also awake already, so she joined them for breakfast.


    Partway through the meal, Aunt Lian suddenly came down from the second floor with something in her hand. Then, she made her way to the dining table and asked, "What are these things?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nced at Aunt Lian, nearly choking on her porridge when she saw the items in Aunt Lian''s hands. Then, while covering her mouth, she looked at Murong Shi with widened eyes.


    However, Murong Shi simply winked in response.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>What does that mean?</em>


    Meanwhile, Aunt Lian was still curiously researching the packets in her hand. "I picked these up in your room. They were scattered all over the floor. The description on the wrapper says they''re meant to go on the fingers. What are they for?"


    One of the packets had already been torn open. Just as Aunt Lian was about to open it up and investigate further, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly put down her chopsticks and snatched over the opened packet. Then, with a paleplexion, she said, "Aunt Lian, this is... This is mine..."


    "What is it?" Murong Mingshu asked, growing curious as well.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    "Why is your face so red?" Aunt Lian asked in confusion as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s panicked expression.


    "I..." Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi for help.


    Then, Murong Shi leisurely took a sip of porridge before saying, "Those are finger cots meant to be worn on fingers."


    <em>How can she speak so bluntly?</em> Xu Chuanchuan was shocked.


    However, what Murong Shi said next shocked Xu Chuanchuan even more.


    In a calm tone, Murong Shi said, "It''s meant for female masturbation."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    Murong Mingshu: "..."


    Aunt Lian: "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face instantly turned as red as a tomato. Then, she had her head buried into her bowl for the rest of her meal while avoiding the strange gazes of Aunt Lian and Murong Mingshu. After finishing her meal, she quickly ran to the hallway and changed her shoes.


    "No need to hurry. We have plenty of time left," Murong Shi leisurely said while following Xu Chuanchuan.


    Using a voice that only the two of them could hear, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "We didn''t use those thingsst night, so how could they be scattered on the ground?"


    "I left them there."


    Gasping, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You did it on purpose?"


    Murong Shi smiled without saying a word.


    "You did!"


    "ShhThey''re still looking at us. How can you be so cute? Look at how red your face has be."


    "You still have the gall to say that?!"


    "Oh, I won''t say it then."


    After saying so, Murong Shi stood up and pulled Xu Chuanchuan up from the bench. Then, she tugged on Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and nted a loud kiss on thetter''s lips.


    Even after Murong Shi had released her, Xu Chuanchuan remained in a daze.


    <em>What is she trying to do?</em>


    However, Murong Shi did not leave Xu Chuanchuan with any time to collect her wits. Immediately after the kiss, she wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and said to the two elders in the dining room, "Mom, Aunt Lian, we''re leaving now. We''ll be back tonight."


    "..." Both Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian had already be dumbfounded.

 Chapter 93: Pt.1

    Chapter 93: Pt.1


    The weather in November was cool, so Murong Mingshu was wearing a in satin dress. When she felt a gust of wind hit her, she snapped out of her daze and looked at the empty doorway. Then, she said, "Ah Lian, was I seeing things just now? I think I saw them..."


    In response, Aunt Lian shook her head and said, "No, I saw it too."


    The silken shawl Murong Mingshu wore silently fell to the floor. However, Murong Mingshu didn''t pay it any attention as her mouth gradually opened in shock.


    Meanwhile, Aunt Lian strode towards the door, opened it, and poked her head outside. After making sure that Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had left, she shut the door and quickly returned to Murong Mingshu''s side, saying, "They''re gone."


    Murong Mingshu nervously sped her wrinkled palms, "What is the meaning of this?"


    "How would I know?" Aunt Lian also wore an anxious look on her face. "No matter how good their rtionship is, there''s no way they will kiss each other on the lips. Do you think the two of them are..."


    Murong Mingshu stared at Aunt Lian with a nk look for a moment before asking, "Have you noticed anything strange about them before?"


    Aunt Lian pondered in silence for a moment. Then, she said, "Yes, I did! On one weekend morning, Little Shi apanied you out for a walk. I saw that Chuanchuan was still asleep, so I went to wake her for breakfast. She was changing out of her pajamas when I opened the door, so I ended up seeing..."


    "What did you see?"


    A blush appeared on Aunt Lian''s wizened face. Then, she pointed at the area around her corbone and said, "I saw a few red marks here. When I asked her about them, she covered them up in a panic and said they''re mosquito bites. I didn''t think much about it at the time, but looking back at it now, there''s no way mosquito bites could cause such huge marks. Rather than mosquito bites, it looked as if someone had sucked on those spots with their mouth."


    "..." Murong Mingshu revealed a horrified expression. Then, she hesitantly said, "Could it be Little Shi???"


    There were no outsiders present, so Aunt Lian boldly stated her assumption, "Don''t you think it''s strange. There''s a guest room in the house, so why must they sleep in the same room? Apart from mealtime, they''re rarely separated from each other. Also, there was one time where I woke up in the middle of the night to get some water. When I was about to head downstairs, I suddenly heard strange noisesing from Little Shi''s room, the kind that men and women usually make on the bed... You get me?"


    After Aunt Lian had spoken so bluntly, there was no way a married woman like Murong Mingshu wouldn''t understand. It was just that she found this ridiculous situation hard to process.


    Meanwhile, Aunt Lian picked up the fallen shawl and stuffed it into Murong Mingshu''s arms. Then, she said, "I used to hear that it''s possible two men or two women to do <em>that </em>kind of thing, but I never thought Little Shi and Chuanchuan..."


    "N-No, that can''t be possible," Murong Mingshu interrupted. "Could we be overthinking things?"


    Both of them were elderly and conservative people. Aunt Lian also hoped that she was overthinking matters. However, with the facts ced before her, how could she deceive herself?


    "Why don''t we check their room?" Aunt Lian suggested.


    "O-Okay, let''s go," Murong Mingshu agreed.


    Aunt Lian was usually the one responsible for cleaning the house. Whenever she cleaned Murong Shi''s room, she would always avoid messing with Murong Shi''s belongings. However, after something like that had happened today, the two elders couldn''t care less about being reserved. After entering the room, they immediately began rummaging through the drawers and cabs.


    When they opened the bedside table''s drawer, they instantly found all of the evidence they were looking for. A few unopened packets of finger cots, a magic wand massager, and an egg vibrator neatly arranged inside the drawer... Upon seeing these strange items, the two old women blushed, neither of them daring to even touch the items.


    Afterward, Aunt Lian found a book hidden under the pillow. However, as neither of them could see the words written in the book, Aunt Lian hurriedly went to Murong Mingshu and brought back thetter''s reading sses.


    By the time Murong Mingshu was done reading the novel''s introduction, she dared not read any more of the book''s contents.


    Aunt Lian asked, "What''s written inside?"


    Murong Mingshu closed the cover, her lips trembling as she found it difficult to speak.


    ...


    In the car...


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart beat violently as she anxiously said, "Auntie and Aunt Lian must be suspecting us right now."


    "I did it precisely because I want them to grow suspicious," Murong Shi said in a rxed tone.


    Widening her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi''s profile and asked, "Why didn''t you tell me in advance if you were going to do something like this? At least let me be mentally prepared."


    "Mentally prepared for what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was stumped.


    Chuckling, Murong Shi said, "The ones who need to be mentally prepared are my mom and Aunt Lian. I think that they''ve probably gone to search my room by now. Once they see <em>those </em>things, everything should be clear to them."


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled that embarrassing scene that had taken ce just a few minutes ago, she couldn''t help but cover her face in shame. After a while, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Do you think they can ept it?"


    "How would I know?"


    "Then, why did you suddenly...?!"


    Murong Shi stopped the car in front of a red light. Using this opportunity, she looked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "What are you afraid of? Both my mom and Aunt Lian like you so much."


    "But..." Xu Chuanchuan stopped talking, unsure of what she should say in this situation.


    "Don''t worry. We''ll know what their stances are when we return tonight," Murong Shi said as she held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s hands. Then, she chuckled, "Why are you even sweating? Nervous?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly retracted her hands and wiped her palms against her pants. Then, she let out an angry huff and said, "Is that not your fault? You didn''t even say anything before kissing me right in front of them. I was so frightened that I even broke out in a cold sweat."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that they had toe out of the closet sooner orter. She also knew that it wouldn''t be an easy task to get through her parents'' hurdle. After all, her parents had only met Murong Shi twice thus far. However, it was a different story for Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian. At this point, the two elders already treated her as if she were their goddaughter. So, there was a much better chance that the two elders would ept her rtionship with Murong Shi.


    Even so, Xu Chuanchuan still couldn''t help but worry.


    After struggling through the day and finally getting off work, Xu Chuanchuan remained seated in the office.


    When everyone else in the Engineering Department had left, Murong Shi came to find Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Let''s go."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s current expression looked as if she was suffering from constipation. Hesitantly, she said, "How about...you go home by yourself today?"


    "Scared?"


    Xu Chuanchuan pursed her lips and nodded.


    "What''s there to be afraid of with me around?" Murong Shi said, pulling Xu Chuanchuan out of the chair. "The ugly daughter-inw will have to meet her inws sooner orter."


    "I''m not ugly."


    "So, what are you afraid of?"


    "..."


    After going upstairs to feed Fang Qin''s fish, Xu Chuanchuan eventuallypromised and returned to the Murong household together with Murong Shi.


    "Mom, we''re back."


    "A-Auntie," Xu Chuanchuan greeted Murong Mingshu with a stiff smile.


    Aunt Lian was in the kitchen preparing dinner.


    Meanwhile, Murong Mingshu was seated in the living room watching TV, herplexion looked the same as usual. Though, her expression changed slightly when she saw her daughter and Xu Chuanchuan holding hands with each other. However, she quickly put on a proper smile and said, "You''re back? Dinner''s not ready yet. How about eating some fruits first?"


    Xu Chuanchuan tried to free her hand. However, Murong Shi simply tightened her hold and dragged Xu Chuanchuan to the sofa.


    As soon as they sat down, Xu Chuanchuan immediately saw the several books on the coffee table. And upon seeing the familiar book covers, her breath stifled.


    Those were her novels...


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know when Murong Shi had brought those books back from the dormitory. She also didn''t know how Murong Mingshu found those books. At this point, her body had be so stiff that she didn''t even notice the apple slice Murong Shi offered her.


    "Open your mouth," Murong Shi said, poking her lover''s lips with the apple slice.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bring herself to do something so embarrassing in front of Murong Mingshu. So, she grabbed the apple slice with her free hand and put it into her mouth. Then, while chewing, her eyes inadvertently found themselves returning to the books.


    Is it toote to hide them now? Xu Chuanchuan wondered.


    At this time, Murong Mingshu suddenly said, "Little Shi, Chuanchuan, I have a question to ask you two."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s heart thumped. Amidst her daze, she identally bit her tongue and cried out in pain, "Ah."


    Two pairs of eyes looked toward Xu Chuanchuan simultaneously. Then, Murong Shi asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Xu Chuanchuan endured the pain and shook her head. And although she tried to put on a smile, she failed miserably in doing so.


    After seeing Xu Chuanchuan shaking her head, Murong Shi reached out and grabbed one of the books on the coffee table. After flipping through it superficially, she looked toward Murong Mingshu and asked, "Did you find these in my room?"


    A trace of embarrassment shed across Murong Mingshu''s face. Then, she awkwardly said, "It''s not that I don''t respect your privacy. It''s just because..."


    "I know," Murong Shi calmly interrupted. "You came into my room to find evidence."


    Murong Mingshu fell silent.


    Murong Shi held up Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and kissed it. Ignoring Murong Mingshu''s strange stare, Murong Shi said, "Mom, I like Chuanchuan. We''ve been together for a long time now. But we were worried you couldn''t ept it, so we''ve hidden this fact until now."


    Murong Mingshu had already prepared a draft of questions to get to the bottom of this matter. However, she didn''t think that her daughter would confess everything so quickly. Feeling a little taken aback, she said, "But I don''t understand. Weren''t you together with Shaohua previously?"


    Murong Shi looked down and pondered for a moment. Then, she said, "Me and Jiang Shaohua were only putting on an act. There was never any real rtionship between us. We were just pretending to be lovers."


    "..." Murong Mingshu was so surprised that she couldn''t speak.


    "I know you have always disliked Jiang Shaohua. You think that there is a problem with his character," Murong Shi said before pausing for a moment. Then, she looked at her anxious lover, whose palms had already begun to sweat, and smiled, saying, "I''m sure you and Aunt Lian both know what kind of person Chuanchuan is. She is a good girl."


    Murong Mingshu switched her gaze between Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan. Her mouth opened and closed several times, but not once did she manage to utter a word.


    At this time, Xu Chuanchuan timidly said, "Auntie, I like Murong from the bottom of my heart. I wish to be together with her forever. I hope you can ept us."


    Murong Mingshu had always been weak to soft words, so how could she possibly withstand Murong Shi''s and Xu Chuanchuan''s joint assault? So, she instantly forgot about the long essay she had thought up. Suddenly, she stood up and avoided the topic by saying, "I''ll go see if Aunt Lian is done."


    After saying so, Murong Mingshu left Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan staring at each other in the living room.


    "It doesn''t seem like she can ept it," Xu Chuanchuan said in frustration.


    Murong Shi pondered for a moment before saying, "She might not be able to ept it for now, but she will once you give her enough time."

 Chapter 93: Pt.2

    Chapter 93: Pt.2


    Sun An did note back, so only the four of them ate dinner together. However, unlike the usual joyful atmosphere, an awkward atmosphere currently surrounded the dining table.


    The four women tacitly remained silent about that matter. Xu Chuanchuan knew that Murong Mingshu was a vegetarian, so she silently picked up a piece of steamed pumpkin and put it into Murong Mingshu''s bowl.


    Murong Mingshu''s eyelids trembled slightly at this sight. Then, she beamed a smile at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "You should eat more as well."


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw Murong Mingshu eating the steamed pumpkin, she secretly sighed in relief.


    Aunt Lian wasn''t much of a picky eater, so Xu Chuanchuan served a piece of tenderloin for the elderly woman. In response, Aunt Lian also ate the food with a smile.


    Overall, though, this meal still ended up being an awkward one.


    It was raining outside, so Murong Mingshu couldn''t go out for her after-meal stroll. She also felt too embarrassed to stay with Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan, so she thought to excuse herself and return to her room. However, just as she was about to speak up...


    Murong Shi picked up the books on the coffee table and asked, "Have you read them?"


    Murong Mingshu didn''t know what her daughter was trying to do. After pursing her lips for a moment, she said, "I only nced through them."


    "Were they good?"


    "..." Murong Mingshu''s expression turned slightly unnatural. Then, she said, "I told you I only nced through them. I don''t remember the content..."


    Murong Shi smiled. Then, she said, "They''re quite a good read. Also, Chuanchuan wrote these novels."


    "Chuanchuan wrote them?" Murong Mingshu was stunned. Then, she looked past her daughter''s shoulder and searched for Xu Chuanchuan''s figure.


    Coincidentally, Xu Chuanchuan was also looking at Murong Mingshu. When she overheard their conversation, she lowered her head in embarrassment.


    "Mhm, she''s quite talented. She has written six such books. If you''re interested, I can bring the rest for you to read in the future."


    The creases on Murong Mingshus'' forehead trembled slightly. Then, she waved her hand and said, "Nevermind. My eyes are terrible, and I can''t read things clearly. Besides, these... How can I read these things? You''re just trying to make me angry."


    Murong Shi observed her mother''s face for a moment. Then, she softly asked, "Then, are you angry?"


    "Angry for what?"


    "Angry that we kept our rtionship a secret from you."


    "...Let''s talk about this on another day." Murong Shi was reluctant to continue this topic, so she stood up and left for her room.


    ...


    Her mind upied with thoughts on today''s matter, Xu Chuanchuan decided to take the day off from writing. After bathing together with Murong Shi, the two of themid down on the bed. Although they were not in the mood for sex, they did not go to sleep, either.


    "Aunt Lian barely smiled today. Is she unable to ept me?" Xu Chuanchuan asked nervously.


    Seeing that even her own mother had not clearly voiced her approval for their rtionship, Murong Shi couldn''t confidently provide Xu Chuanchuan with an answer. After pondering for a long time, she said, "Don''t panic. They might need a little more time."


    The two only left the Murong household after staying over for three days. As soon as they returned to the dormitory, Fang Qin called them saying that she had returned from her business trip and wanted to treat them to a meal.


    As soon as they met up, Murong Shi extended a hand and asked Fang Qin for her lunar birthday present.


    "No presents," Fang Qin said, rolling her eyes.


    "Did you at least bring back some cakes? The walnut cakes you brought backst time were quite good. Chuanchuan likes them a lot," Murong Shi teased.


    "..." Fang Qin ignored her friend''s ridicule and looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s sullen expression. Then, she said, "What''s wrong with you today?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan ced a hand on her cheek and sighed, saying, "Auntie Mingshu and Aunt Lian already found out about us."


    Fang Qin''s eyes immediately lit up upon hearing Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she eagerly asked, "Did youe out of the closet already?"


    Xu Chuanchuan replied with a listless "Mhm" while absent-mindedly flipping through the menu.


    Seeing the frown on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Fang Qin thought that they had encountered obstacles. Yet, she couldn''t help but doubt her assumption when she saw Murong Shi''s calm expression. Confused by the contrasting reactions, Fang Qin asked, "Tell me about it."


    "There''s nothing to say," Murong Shi said. "Even I would find it hard to ept this kind of thing within a short time, let alone my mother. It doesn''t matter, though, since I''ve already figured out a solution."


    "What solution?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, her spirits rising.


    However, Murong Shi acted mysteriously and refused to say anything.


    ...


    Aftering out of the closet, Xu Chuanchuan had made a Weibo post asking her readers for help. She asked those with experience how they responded aftering out of the closet. Her post had received a lot of responses, and she eventually settled for one of the rmendations. Then, following the rmendation, she bought plenty of health care products for middle-aged and elderly people online, and she thought to give them to Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian the following weekend.


    However, when the weekend arrived, Murong Shi did not take Xu Chuanchuan back with her. So, Xu Chuanchuan had no choice but to stay in the dormitory and focus on her writing.


    ...


    In the meantime, Murong Shi had brought the expensive health care products Xu Chuanchuan purchased back home. After seeing the items, Murong Mingshu sighed and said, "Why is she wasting all this money for no reason? Doesn''t she make hardly anything each month?"


    Adding fuel to the fire, Murong Shi said, "She spent an entire month''s sry on these things. She''ll probably have to eat only instant noodles for the rest of the month."


    "How is that eptable?! Can these be refunded?"


    "What refund? This is a token of her goodwill, so just ept it."


    "Then...why didn''t shee back with you today?"


    "She''s afraid ofing."


    "Why?"


    Shrugging, Murong Shi said, "She''s afraid you''ll find her annoying."


    "..."


    Another week passed, and Murong Shi still returned home by herself. She also brought back a gift Xu Chuanchuan bought for Murong Mingshu, saying, "This is a footbath salt. It''s not expensive."


    Murong Mingshu wanted to say something, but before she could open her mouth, Murong Shi got ahead of her and said, "The weather is getting cold. It''ll be good for your body to have more footbaths. I''ll go heat up some water for you."


    Murong Mingshu had the habit of enjoying a footbath before bed. However, she didn''t think that her daughter would help her wash her feet this time. Frightened, she asked, "What are you doing?"


    "I''m giving you a massage."


    Looking at her daughter''s actions, Murong Mingshu hurriedly said, "Enough, enough. You don''t need to please me to such an extent."


    However, Murong Shi continued with her massage and said, "You''ve given birth to me and raised me all these years. How can this be considered fawning?"


    Murong Mingshu was rendered speechless. After looking at her daughter''s attentive expression for a while, she said, "I know that you''ve always been an assertive person and that you won''t listen to me even if I say otherwise. Regarding you and Chuanchuan..."


    Murong Shi looked up at her mother.


    After a long silence, Murong Mingshu let out a heavy sigh and said, "It''s the Winter Solstice Festival tomorrow. It might not be an important one, but it''s a festival nheless. Have Chuanchuane home for a meal."


    When Murong Shi called to tell Xu Chuanchuan this piece of news, Xu Chuanchuan jumped out of her chair in excitement. After all, thispromise meant that Murong Mingshu had already begun to acquiesce in their rtionship. Xu Chuanchuan got so excited over the news that she couldn''t fall asleep the entire night.


    The next day, Xu Chuanchuan rejected Murong Shi''s offer to fetch her and took a taxi to the Murong household early in the morning instead.


    Murong Mingshu and Aunt Lian were as kind as usual. They also treated Xu Chuanchuan warmly. However, probably because they now knew about her rtionship with Murong Shi, they now began treating her with even more intimacy.


    The north wind had caused Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks to flush red. Seeing this, Murong Mingshu touched her cheeks and distressedly said, "Why didn''t you wear a scarf?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was still a little unused to this treatment, so she shrank her neck and embarrassedly said, "I didn''t expect it to be so windy outside."


    "Look, even your hands have turned purple."


    The only thing Xu Chuanchuan knew to do was to put on a silly smile.


    Then, Murong Mingshu pointed her chin toward the kitchen and said, "Aunt Lian has stewed some big bone soup. I''ll have Little Shi pour you a bowl to warm up your body first."


    "Let''s drink it together, then," Murong Shi said. Then, she looked toward Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Come and help me."


    Xu Chuanchuan happily followed Murong Shi.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not act too presumptuously outside. However, after entering the kitchen and avoiding the gazes from outside, Xu Chuanchuan hugged Murong Shi and said, "Your mother is so nice."


    "Does that mean I''m not nice?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes narrowed into smiles. Then, she said, "Your whole family is nice."


    "My dad still doesn''t know about us," Murong Shi said, shaking her head.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s smile instantly stiffened.


    "Don''t worry. Although my dad has a bad temper, he listens to my mother the most," Murong Shi said as she tugged at Xu Chuanchuan''s frozen cheeks. Then, she asked, "Why does your face feel so cold?"


    After taking a look outside, Xu Chuanchuan lowered her voice and said, "I called for a taxi just now. I only found out that the taxi''s air conditioner is broken after getting into the car, but I was toozy to get out and find another one."


    Frowning, Murong Shi said, "Give him a bad review."


    "That''s unnecessary. The driver returned half of the money to me."


    Seeing the happy smile on her lover''s face, Murong Shi shook her head helplessly and said, "What a miser you are."


    Xu Chuanchuan stuck out her tongue at the criticism.


    Worried that Xu Chuanchuan would catch a cold, Murong Shi asked Aunt Lian for some instructions and cooked up a bowl of ginger soup for her lover. Although Xu Chuanchuan drank the ginger soup made with love, she still ended up catching a cold the next day.


    To make matters worse, even Murong Shi got infected by Xu Chuanchuan. For this reason, Xu Chuanchuan got very upset and said, "I already told you we shouldn''t do itst night, yet you still did it regardless."


    Murong Shi wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s neck and gave thetter a passionate kiss. Then, in a nasal voice, she said, "Yesterday was a good day, so we naturally have to celebrate it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..." <em>This is the first time I''ve heard of celebrating by making love.</em>


    Before even recovering from her cold, Murong Shi had to leave for a business trip. This time, she was going to Taiwan. She had initially thought to bring Xu Chuanchuan with her, but Xu Chuanchuan chose to remain in S City after much consideration. After all, Murong Shi would be going for work while she would have to apply for leave. And if she left, there would be nobody to handle her work. Her department definitely wouldn''t approve her leave application.


    After Murong Shi left, Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt that she was missing something by her side. However, when Murong Shi called her via video chat that night and asked if she would be bored by herself, she stubbornly said, "Nope. I get to sleep and eat whenever I want. I''ve never had such freedom before."


    "Freedom?" Murong Shi narrowed her eyes. "Does that mean you think I''ve been controlling you too strictly before?"


    <em>Isn''t that the case? </em>Xu Chuanchuan mentally retorted.


    Some time ago, one of Xu Chuanchuan''s readers had sincerely rmended her a female talent show. While watching the show, Xu Chuanchuan found herself attracted to a beautiful youngdy who could sing and dance. So, after finishing her daily writing quota, she would eagerly watch the talent show every night. Afterward, a certain someone exploded in jealousy. And while Murong Shi did not confiscate her phone, what Murong Shi did instead was strip herself naked and dangle herself in front of her. This situation prevented Xu Chuanchuan from concentrating on the talent show. Eventually, she even got overwhelmed and stripped naked herself.


    "No, no, I was just joking," Xu Chuanchuan''s strong desire to live forced herself to utter a tant lie. Then, she quickly changed the conversation topic and asked, "Is Taiwan fun?"


    "There are many things to eat. Linda has even left the hotel to go on an eating spree."


    Xu Chuanchuan started getting hungry after hearing Murong Shi''s words. After secretly swallowing the saliva that had pooled in her mouth, she asked, "Are there many beautiful girls in Taiwan?"


    "No idea. I didn''t pay attention," Murong Shi replied without even thinking.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt pleased by this answer.


    After returning from her business trip, Murong Shi decided to bring Xu Chuanchuan home for another meal. Considering that Murong Shi had just got off the ne, Xu Chuanchuan took the initiative to be the driver.


    Initially, Murong Shi had shared a few words with Xu Chuanchuan. However, her words became more and more perfunctory as the drive continued. Xu Chuanchuan caught a glimpse of Murong Shi fiddling with her phone through the corner of her eyes, so she asked, "Do you still have unfinished work?"


    This time, Murong Shi didn''t even respond with an "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan stopped interrupting Murong Shi. She also didn''t take this matter to heart. However, when Xu Chuanchuan came out of the bathroom after her evening shower and saw that Murong Shi was still fiddling with her phone, she couldn''t help but be puzzled.


    Unlike Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi wasn''t addicted to her mobile phone. However, ever since leaving the airport, Murong Shi had never once parted with her phone. She had been responding to messages even during dinner.


    "You''re done already?" Murong Shi asked, only noticing that Xu Chuanchuan had left the bathroom after she had stood by the bedside for some time.


    Frowning, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Who are you talking to? Linda?"


    "No."


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to lean forward and peek at the conversation, but Murong Shi had turned the screen to the other side. Then, Murong Shi stood up, stretched her back, and said, "My turn, then."


    After watching Murong Shi enter the bathroom, Xu Chuanchuan heard a beep from Murong Shi''s phone. Simultaneously, she couldn''t help but get a strange feeling.


    Murong Shi''s behavior today was too out of the ordinary. In the past, even when she tried spying on Murong Shi''s conversations, Murong Shi would simply let her do so. Yet, why did it seem like Murong Shi was afraid to let her see the chat just now?


    Apart from this point, Xu Chuanchuan also noticed a suspicious point. Ever since they met at the airport, Murong Shi had not hugged her even once.

 Chapter 94: Pt.1

    Chapter 94: Pt.1


    During the next half an hour, Murong Shi''s phone beeped five more times. Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart thumping every time she heard it beeped, preventing her from staying calm.


    Ever since they started living together, they had recorded each other''s thumbprints on their phones. They also knew the password to each other''s phones. Hence, if Xu Chuanchuan wanted to, she could easily find out who Murong Shi was talking to. However, she didn''t wish to do such a thing.


    After all, the fact that Murong Shi had ced her phone out in the open proved that she trusted Xu Chuanchuan. If Xu Chuanchuan were to secretly inspect Murong Shi''s phone, wouldn''t that be akin to her betraying Murong Shi''s trust?


    So, Xu Chuanchuan endured her curiosity and waited for another ten minutes before Murong Shi left the bathroom.


    When Murong Shi saw that Xu Chuanchuan still maintained the same seating posture on the bed, she asked in surprise, "Why haven''t you changed your clothes yet?"


    The two of them were currently d in a bath towel. Even though the bath towels they used were of the same length, Xu Chuanchuan''s towel covered most of her body while Murong Shi''s towel exposed arge portion of her thighs.


    Xu Chuanchuan gulped when she saw Murong Shi''s glistening skin, and she couldn''t help herself from reaching out for those sulent thighs. While caressing her lover''s thighs, she said, "You took a while."


    "I''m feeling a little tired, so I decided to soak for half an hour."


    "Then, do you want me to give you a massage?"


    "Can you?"


    "Come,e." Xu Chuanchuan dragged Murong Shi to the bed and sat thetter down. Then, she sat behind Murong Shi, ced her hands on Murong Shi''s bare shoulders, and began gently squeezing them. "Is this much force alright?"


    "Mhm," Murong Shi hummed a reply and narrowed her eyes to enjoy the massage.


    At this time, another beep came from Murong Shi''s phone, causing Xu Chuanchuan''s hands to tremble. After sneaking a nce at the phone, Xu Chuanchuan reminded, "Someone messaged you."


    Xu Chuanchuan just so happened to be able to see Murong Shi''s profile from her perspective. So, she was able to see Murong Shi''s thin lips casually uttering, "It''s fine. Ignore it."


    <em>Ignore it?</em>


    <em>Good.</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan let out a sigh of relief and continued massaging Murong Shi''s temples.


    Possibly because Murong Shi was truly tired, but her eyes quickly closed shut. While looking at Murong Shi''s lips rising and falling along with her breathing, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have the urge to suck on them.


    After her massage continued for some time, Xu Chuanchuan gradually slowed down her movements. Simultaneously, her hands began misbehaving and gradually slid down Murong Shi''s slender back. Then, they slid forward along Murong Shi''s ribcage and yfully fondled the two soft bundles pressed down by the bath towel.


    Murong Shi snapped awake and straightened her back. Then, she turned around, her eyes curled up slightly as she asked, "What are you doing?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan squeezed the soft bundles in her hands suggestively and whispered, "You went on a business trip for five days this time. We haven''t done it for a long time already."


    Lifting Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with one hand, Murong Shi curled her lips into a smile and said, "Didn''t we do it just two days ago?"


    "Huh? Did we?"


    "Did we not?" yfully looking at Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi asked, "Did you forget that video call?"


    Xu Chuanchuan tilted her head and pondered for a moment. Then, her face heated up as she eximed, "That doesn''t count!"


    "It doesn''t?"


    "..." After pursing her lips for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan stated, "Of. Course. Not."


    Murong Shi did not refute Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she turned around and faced her lover, lifting thetter by her waist, and ambiguously said, "You seemed to have enjoyed it a lot that day. Was it alsofortable to y with yourself?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan buried her boiling face into the breasts in front of her and pleaded, "Please stop talking about that."


    Then, Murong Shi gently nibbled on Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and hoarsely said, "Do you want it again after just two days?"


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately felt a ball of fire rushing straight up her body from her lower abdomen. Unable to hold herself back anymore, she held onto Murong Shi''s head and kissed her.


    Because of her reserved personality, Xu Chuanchuan rarely took the initiative when it came to bedtime activities. There was also the fact that Murong Shi would asionally say that her techniques were bad, which further lowered her confidence. However, when she thought about how they hadn''t shared any passionate moments since they met up this morning, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel frustrated. So, she ended up biting down on Murong Shi''s lower lip to vent her frustration.


    Feeling a slight pain, Murong Shi teasingly said, "Hey, my lips aren''t pork trotters."


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan enveloped Murong Shi''s left breast with her mouth while massaging the right one with her hand. Sensing a strong suction force acting on her left breast, Murong Shi giggled and said, "Be gentler. Are you trying to milk me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan failed to seal Murong Shi''s mouth. She also failed to hold down Murong Shi''s twisting body. Feeling a little annoyed, she let go of Murong Shi and red at her lover with reddened eyes.


    At this point, Xu Chuanchuan''s hair was already in a mess. Her bath towel had also disappeared somewhere. In contrast, Murong Shi still looked prim and proper. Even her expression hardly changed. Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel aggrieved and asked, "What is up with you?"


    While supporting Xu Chuanchuan''s body with her hands, Murong Shi stared at her lover in confusion and asked, "What do you mean?"


    Xu Chuanchuan briefly scanned the reddened lip she had bitten before and the residue saliva on Murong Shi''s left breast. In a slightly embarrassed tone, she said, "You seem to be absent-minded all night, and you''re barely reacting when I kiss you. You weren''t like this before."


    Murong Shi slowly straightened her back and embraced Xu Chuanchuan. Then, after nting a kiss on her lover''s puffed-up cheeks, Murong Shi gently said, "I''m just a little tired."


    Xu Chuanchuan could understand if Murong Shi was tired because of the business trip. However, Xu Chuanchuan found it a little hard to believe that Murong Shi was so tired to the point where she didn''t even have the energy to share a kiss.


    In the past, whenever Xu Chuanchuan gave a slight peck on Murong Shi''s lips, Murong Shi would immediatelyunch a passionate counterattack. Yet, even though both of them were naked now, Murong Shi only listlessly gave her a peck on the lips. How could Xu Chuanchuan not be suspicious?


    When Xu Chuanchuan linked Murong Shi''s dull reactions to the sight of Murong Shi staring into her phone all day and Murong Shi deliberately preventing her from looking at her phone''s screen, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be peeved. So, without even thinking, she asked, "Are you meeting with another woman behind my back?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s words momentarily stunned Murong Shi. Then, Murong Shi left out a chuckle and gave Xu Chuanchuan a knock on the head. "What are you thinking with your head?"


    "I''m not joking with you." Xu Chuanchuan caught Murong Shi''s hand and looked at the other party with anger in her eyes.


    After stiffening for several seconds, Murong Shi retracted her smile and earnestly said, "You''re overthinking things. How could I possibly fool around behind your back?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan pointed at Murong Shi''s phone and said, "Then, tell me who you were talking to this entire day."


    Murong Shi: "..."


    They had been together for half a year now. The first time Xu Chuanchuan got angry at Murong Shi was when she found out that Murong Shi had used "Passerby Shi" to trick her. The two of them had waged their first cold war because of that incident. However, because Murong Shi knew that she was in the wrong, she worked hard to please Xu Chuanchuan and seek forgiveness back then.


    There was the saying of "even an angered rabbit can bite people." Xu Chuanchuan had already bared her fangs at this time, looking as if she would pounce on and bite Murong Shi at any time.


    Murong Shi calmed her mind and sat Xu Chuanchuan on herp. Then, she said, "It''s just a friend."


    "Fang Qin?"


    Murong Shi shook her head.


    Xu Chuanchuan grew nervous upon seeing this response. However, failing to see any expressions on Murong Shi''s face, Xu Chuanchuan continued asking, "Is the other party a woman?"


    Murong Shi silently stared at Xu Chuanchuan for a few seconds before nodding.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s left eyelid twitched. "How did you two get acquainted?"


    "We met during my visit to Taiwan."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan never thought that the story would y out like this, and she couldn''t help but have a sinking feeling. "Do you like her?"


    Murong Shi let out a sigh when she heard this question, finding it both funny and infuriating. "What nonsense are you talking about? The one I like is you."


    "Then, why are you talking to her? Or is she the one pestering you?" Xu Chuanchuan impatiently asked.


    "That''s not the case, either." Murong Shi frowned slightly, finding this situation to be somewhat troublesome. "This is a long story. I''ll exin it to you in the future, but you can rest assured that it''s not what you think. You need to believe me."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt her shoulders growing a little cold. So, she silently picked up her fallen towel and got out of the bed.


    However, Murong Shi did not let Xu Chuanchuan escape as she pushed the shorter woman onto the bed and sealed her lover''s lips. While kissing Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi also snatched the bath towel in Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and threw it to the ground. Then, she began caressing her lover all over.


    Murong Shi''s hands seemed to be imbued with magic as Xu Chuanchuan''s stiffened body quickly softened. However, just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to lose all sense of reasoning, she suddenly snapped out of her daze and held down Murong Shi''s misbehaving hands. Then, she nimbly escaped to the side and stubbornly said, "I don''t want to do it anymore."


    <em>She''s clearly hiding something, so why should I believe in her? </em>When Xu Chuanchuan recalled that Murong Shi had been happily chatting with another woman half an hour ago, a bitter feeling spread in her heart.


    Murong Shi thought Xu Chuanchuan was only pretending to be angry, so she held onto Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and pulled thetter back. Then, she began lighting fires all over her lover''s body with her lips.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s body couldn''t withstand the physical intimacy and quickly began showing a reaction. Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but hate herself for being so weak in this situation. Though, she also hated Murong Shi for keeping such an important secret from her. Eventually, her anger overflowed, and she shouted, "I said I don''t want to do it!"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan extended her hands to push Murong Shi away. However, because Xu Chuanchuan forgot to control her strength, and Murong Shi had been caught off-guard, Xu Chuanchuan ended up pushing Murong Shi to the ground.


    Along with a "bang" and a muffled groan, the air in the room suddenly became deathly silent.


    Xu Chuanchuan was thunderstruck as she looked at Murong Shi sitting on the floor.


    <em>Heavens, what did I just do?! </em>After snapping out of her daze, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly got out of bed and went to help Murong Shi. "I''m sorry, I''m sorry, I didn''t do it on purpose."


    A thick carpet covered the floor, so it didn''t hurt much to fall on it. Even so, Murong Shi currently wore an ugly expression on her face.


    "Does it hurt?" Xu Chuanchuan anxiously asked.


    Murong Shi took a long look at Xu Chuanchuan, seemingly trying to hold back something. Then, she shook off Xu Chuanchuan''s hands, got up, and said, "Nevermind, it was my mistake. How could I have forced you to do such a thing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan opened her mouth, but no words came to her mind.


    "I''m tired. Let''s sleep." Murong Shi pulled off the wrinkled bath towel on her body and expressionlessly approached the wardrobe.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan stood aside like a wooden dummy, not knowing what she should do in this situation.


    Several minutester, Murong Shi returned dressed in her nightgown. She also tossed a set of clean pajamas to Xu Chuanchuan.


    After changing into her pajamas, Xu Chuanchuan timidly sat down beside Murong Shi.


    "I''m turning off the lights," Murong Shi tly said.


    "Mhm."


    The lights went off along with a "click."


    The darkness worsened the anxiety in Xu Chuanchuan''s heart. After quietly rolling around a few times, she opened her eyes and looked in Murong Shi''s direction. Then, she said, "I''m sorry."


    "It''s okay," Murong Shi responded, her tone nd. Possibly because of the brief tussle just now, there was also a hint of fatigue in her voice.


    Unable to calm down, Xu Chuanchuan began reflecting on herself. The two of them had rarely ever quarreled during the past six months of their rtionship. They stayed together with each other every day, and they lived their lives in a monotonous manner. As Xu Chuanchuan had to write her novels every day, she had no choice but to neglect Murong Shi for several hours every night. Yet, Murong Shi seldomined about this situation.


    Thinking about it this way, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find herself to be an ipetent girlfriend.


    So, does this mean Murong got bored of me and went to find another woman? Is that how it is?


    "Murong, have youhave you gotten tired of me?"

 Chapter 94: Pt.2

    Chapter 94: Pt.2


    "Murong, have youhave you gotten tired of me?"


    "..."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan grew so nervous that her lips had dried up.


    After an eerie silence, Xu Chuanchuan felt a handnding on her waist and a familiar scent brushing against her face. Then, she heard Murong Shi saying, "I''m only talking to that person because I need her help on some matters. Stop overthinking things."


    At this point, Xu Chuanchuan could no longer tell who was right or wrong for today''s matter. She couldn''t help but grow unsettled because of Murong Shi''s fall just now. Moreover, Murong Shi had just returned from an extended business trip and should be tired, so why did she have to pick a fight with Murong Shi of all times?


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the more guilty she felt. She also couldn''t be bothered to think about why Murong Shi was deliberately keeping a secret from her.


    When a conflict arose, one of the involved parties must firstpromise to reach a solution. Xu Chuanchuan quickly felt her heart softening when she sensed the warmthing from Murong Shi''s hand. So, she reached out and embraced Murong Shi, saying, "I''m sorry, I was too willful. Does your butt still hurt?"


    "Don''t touch me."


    "I''m just giving you a massage."


    The hands of both parties shed in the dark. After holding onto Xu Chuanchuan''s wrist, Murong Shi said, "It doesn''t hurt, but if you keep on touching me like that, neither of us are getting any sleep tonight."


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan sometimes felt that she was a vain person. Even though she had previously agreed with Murong Shi that they shouldn''t ever argue with each other, she still failed to control her temper just now.


    Because of this incident, Xu Chuanchuan failed to get any proper sleep. She kept on twisting and turning the entire night, her actions affecting even Murong Shi''s rest.


    Halfway through the night, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly woke up and stumbled to the bathroom. After turning on the lights, she found that her period had arrived.


    Fortunately, they didn''t need to go to work the next day, so they slept until they woke up naturally. After getting up, the two of them tacitly agreed not to mention a word aboutst night''s scuffle. And after they chatted with each other on the bed for some time, Aunt Lian came to call them for lunch.


    After eating lunch, Murong Shi dragged Xu Chuanchuan out, saying that they would take a look at their new house.


    "New house?" Xu Chuanchuan was surprised by the news.


    "It''s the condo my dad gave me on my birthday."


    Xu Chuanchuan remembered this gift, but she failed to understand why Murong Shi was in such a hurry to visit the house. "Don''t tell me you''re really nning on moving?"


    "It hasn''t even been renovated yet, so how can we move in? Though, I do have ns to do so," Murong Shi said.


    Sun An had long since passed the keys to the condo to Murong Shi. All of the paperwork had been dealt with as well. The condo''s unit number was an auspicious ''8,'' and it was a sizable ce with well over 100 square meters. The house had three bedrooms and a spacious kitchen and bathrooms. The master bedroom even had arge open-air balcony that provided a magnificent view.


    "We''ll use the master bedroom for ourselves. As for the two other rooms, we''ll reserve one for you as a study, and the other one will be used as a guest room," Murong Shi exined. "We''ll need to take care of the renovations quickly if we want to move in soon. What kind of style do you have in mind for interior decoration? Do you want a European style? Or a mixed one?"


    "I..." The house was empty, so their voices echoed when they spoke. After taking a look around, Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi''s expectant face and said, "Murong, I think the dormitory is pretty good."


    "You don''t want to move out and live with me?"


    Xu Chuanchuan nodded, then shook her head.


    Puzzled, Murong Shi asked, "What does that mean?"


    Holding onto Murong Shi''s arm, Xu Chuanchuan carefully said, "I want to move out with you, but I just don''t think the timing is right yet."


    "I''m not saying we should move out immediately. We still need to do the renovations. The renovations will take quite some time."


    Biting her lower lip, Xu Chuanchuan said, "This house is something your father gave to you. It would be inappropriate for me to move into this ce with you."


    "How is it inappropriate?"


    "I just finished paying off the money I owed you, so I''m utterly broke right now. You, too, know that the tform will hold onto half of the money I''ve earned before I finish writing the current book. So, I don''t have any spare money to do other things..."


    "I''m not having you pay for anything."


    "Which is why I think it''s inappropriate," Xu Chuanchuan anxiously said. "Although I''m your girlfriend, I don''t wish to rely on you for everything. I''ve already been thinking that I''m not worthy of you. If I take advantage of you as well, it''ll feel as if I''m a sugar baby."


    "Sugar baby?" Murong Shi couldn''t help butugh at Xu Chuanchuan''s usage of terms. "Are you afraid I can''t afford to provide for you?"


    "I don''t need you to provide for me. I can make money myself."


    Letting out a frustrated sigh, Murong Shi said, "You''re too calctive."


    Xu Chuanchuan clicked her tongue and said, "I know I''m stingy and have a lot of shorings. The only positive point I have left is that I don''t like taking advantage of others. If I lose even this positive point, you''ll definitelye to hate me."


    "Who told you that?"


    "Is that not so? If I keep on spending your money and take advantage of you, would you still like me?"


    Murong Shi paused for a while and earnestly thought about Xu Chuanchuan''s question. Then, she said, "I won''t."


    Unfortunately, Murong Shi''s honestly ended up upsetting her lover instead.


    "But I like your frankness," Murong Shi said in an attempt to coax Xu Chuanchuan.


    "I''m not the only one who has to be frank. You must be honest as well."


    "Since when have I not been honest?"


    "Last night, you were clearly..." Xu Chuanchuan shut her mouth halfway through her sentence and turned away.


    "..." Murong Shi did not wish to bring up the sensitive topic, either. So, she dragged Xu Chuanchuan into the master bedroom and pointed outside the balcony, saying, "Look, there''s a park over there."


    The matter was pushed aside, just like that.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s and Murong Shi''s days quickly returned to normal. However, before even a week had passed, Xu Chuanchuan started noticing something strange with Murong Shi''s behavior again.


    The first time Xu Chuanchuan noticed Murong Shi''s strange behavior was when she brought a document for Murong Shi to sign. When she visited Murong Shi''s office, an empty room greeted her. Then, Linda told her that Murong Shi had left thepany for some business.


    In the past, whether Murong Shi was leaving thepany for private or work matters, she would always notify Xu Chuanchuan beforehand. But she did not do so this time. In the end, though, Xu Chuanchuan only chalked it up to Murong Shi being in too much of a hurry and forgetting to tell her about her departure.


    The next time Xu Chuanchuan noticed a peculiarity was that same night.


    Murong Shi had been taking a shower while Xu Chuanchuan was on the phone with Mother Xu at the time. Partway through the call, Xu Chuanchuan''s phone ran out of battery. Failing to find a charger, she thought of using Murong Shi''s phone to call her mother.


    However, when Xu Chuanchuan picked up Murong Shi''s phone, she found that she couldn''t unlock it with her fingerprint. After meeting with failure several times, she tried to open it via password. Yet, when she entered the password, the system notified her that she had entered an incorrect password.


    Refusing to give up, Xu Chuanchuan kept on trying. However, not once did she seed in unlocking the phone. Then, eventually, her heart gradually sank as she came to ept the fact that


    Murong Shi had changed the password to her phone and deleted Xu Chuanchuan''s recorded fingerprint.


    <em>But why?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuanpletely forgot about calling her mother back as she sat on the bed and waited for Murong Shi to leave the bathroom.


    When Murong Shi returned to the bedroom and saw Xu Chuanchuan holding onto her phone, her expression changed slightly as she approached Xu Chuanchuan and asked, "You touched my phone?"


    There was neither joy nor anger in Murong Shi''s voice. Xu Chuanchuan also couldn''t be bothered to discern Murong Shi''s emotions as she stared at her lover in the eye and said, "I was just trying to borrow your phone to call my mom, but I found thatI couldn''t unlock your phone."


    Murong Shi stayed silent for a moment before she said, "It''s because there are some secrets inside. I didn''t want others finding out those secrets, so I changed the password without telling you."


    Coldly, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It''s not just the password; you even deleted my fingerprint. Is it because you''re afraid I''ll check your phone?"


    "That''s right."


    <em>That''s right?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised by Murong Shi''s frankness. However, she also felt her heart growing cold at Murong Shi''s actions. After struggling to speak for some time, she asked, "Why? Is this also rted to that woman?"


    Murong Shi nodded without any hesitation. Then, she took her phone out of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and exined before Xu Chuanchuan exploded, "But hear me out first. Nothing is going on between that person and me. We were just talking about"


    "Work?"


    "This I can''t tell you for the moment."


    <em>ying mysterious?</em> Xu Chuanchuan didn''t ask why Murong Shi couldn''t tell her about her secret. After all, her mind was utterly incapable of functioning properly right now. She also didn''t know whether she felt angry or sad.


    "Okay, whatever you say." Xu Chuanchuan stood up and took a deep breath, doing her best to suppress her emotions. Then, she took a step closer to Murong Shi and asked, "Is there anything else you are hiding from me?"


    Murong Shi''s eyes looked clear and calm as she said, "I went out once today."


    "I know. Linda said you went out for business."


    "Mhm, I treated that person to a meal. I was worried you would overthink things, so I didn''t tell you about it."


    Sneering, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "So, you''re not afraid I would overthink by telling it to me now? If I didn''t ask about it, were you nning on never telling me about it?"


    "Yes."


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan pushed Murong Shi aside and ran out of the room.


    Murong Shi hurriedly ran after Xu Chuanchuan and held her back, asking, "Where are you going thiste at night?"


    "I''m taking a shower." Xu Chuanchuan impatiently shook off Murong Shi''s hand.


    "Why are you taking your phone with you?"


    "None of your business!" Xu Chuanchuan ran into the bathroom without turning back and mmed the door shut.


    Of course, Xu Chuanchuan was in no mood to take a shower at all. With her back against the door, she typed a message to Ange with trembling fingers, saying: "I''m so angry! Murong is talking with another woman behind my back! She even secretly changed her phone''s password and went on a date with that woman! She even confidently admitted it after I called her out!"


    Ange''s reply arrived several minutester: "She''s cheating on you???"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "She says nothing is going on between them. Do you think I should believe her?"


    Ange: "It''s inappropriate for an outsider like me to meddle in this matter. Do you have any concrete evidence?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What I told you is all the evidence I found. If nothing is going on between them, why does she need to change her password? She says she is talking business with that woman, yet it''s not something rted to work. So, why must she keep me in the dark? I really can''t understand her."


    Ange: "Think positively. Maybe she''s preparing a birthday surprise for you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "My birthday is in April. Does she need to prepare this much in advance?"


    Ange: "So, you''re certain she''s cheating on you?"


    Upon seeing this message, Xu Chuanchuan''s agitated heart suddenly cooled down.


    <em>Murong is cheating on me? But how is that possible She just brought me to look at the new house a few days ago</em>


    If Xu Chuanchuan were honest, she was indeed furious at Murong Shi for keeping quiet about her secret meeting with another woman. However, never once had she ever dared to think that Murong Shi was cheating on her.


    <em>So, what exactly is the reason?</em>


    After taking a shower to cool her head, Xu Chuanchuan returned to the bedroom and asked Murong Shi once more, "So, what exactly are you doing with that woman?"


    "I''m sorry. I don''t wish to hide it from you, but I can''t tell this matter to anyone else, and that includes you," Murong Shi curtly said.


    "Okay." Xu Chuanchuan walked past Murong Shi and reached for her pillow on the bed.


    "What are you doing?"


    "I''m sleeping on the sofa tonight," Xu Chuanchuan said.


    Holding down Xu Chuanchuan''s hands, Murong Shi frowned and asked, "Do you not believe me?"


    Pretending to be calm, Xu Chuanchuan said, "It doesn''t matter. You can continue your conversation with her. You don''t need to care about my feelings, either."


    "It''s not that I don''t care about your feelings. I just"


    "Oh, by the way, Ange ising over in a few days, so I won''t have time to apany you." Sneering, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Have that woman apany you instead!"

 Chapter 95: Pt.1

    Chapter 95: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan repeatedly told herself not to get angry as that would hurt their rtionship.


    However, she simply couldn''t hold back her rage this time!


    The fact that Murong Shi had changed her phone''s security measures was one thing, but the way Murong Shi talked about her covert actions in such a righteous manner was simply too much for Xu Chuanchuan.


    There was indeed nothing wrong with lovers keeping secrets from each other. Xu Chuanchuan also wasn''t such a narrow-minded person, either. She didn''t need to know about the details, but was it so difficult for Murong Shi to at least give her a simple exnation?


    The more Xu Chuanchuan thought about it, the angrier she became. After grabbing her pillow, she threw caution to the wind and ran for the door.


    However, Murong Shi quickly caught up to Xu Chuanchuan with her long legs. Then, she snatched the pillow from Xu Chuanchuan''s hands and said, "The sofa is so small; how are you supposed to sleep on it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that she couldn''t win against Murong Shi in a contest of strength, so she pushed the pillow into Murong Shi''s arms and mindlessly blurted out, "You sleep on it, then! I''m not sleeping with you tonight no matter what!"


    Seeing that her lover''s face had turned bright red from anger, Murong Shi tried to embrace the other party, only to be cruelly pushed away.


    "Don''t touch me."


    "..."


    Xu Chuanchuan hammered the pillow between them with her fists time and again, venting her frustration. Her hair also became a mess, making her look even more like a shrew.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t care less about her appearance right now. All she wanted to do right now was to vent all of her anger and frustration.


    Murong Shi silently watched this situation y out for a moment. Then, she tossed aside the troublesome pillow, caught Xu Chuanchuan''s fists, and directed them to her body. "Just hit me if you want."


    Caught off guard, Xu Chuanchuan ended up hitting Murong Shi''s shoulders a few times. Then, she frowned and said, "You''re all bones. Do you want to hurt me?"


    In response, Murong Shi sighed and said, "I knew you couldn''t bear to hit me."


    "Hah." Xu Chuanchuan sneered. Then, she shook off Murong Shi''s hands that were holding onto her wrists and said, "These two hands of yours have typed messages to other women before. Don''t touch me with them."


    "..." Murong Shi was rendered speechless by Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she suddenly let go of Xu Chuanchuan, walked to the door, and locked it.


    "What are you doing? Are you trying to confine me?" Xu Chuanchuan lunged for the door.


    "I have not done anything to betray you," Murong Shi said as she held down Xu Chuanchuan. Then, while receiving her lover''s angry gaze, Murong Shi continued, "I originally nned to keep it as a surprise. I didn''t think you would find out about it so soon."


    Xu Chuanchuan stopped struggling and looked at Murong Shi in a daze. "What surprise?"


    Seeing that Xu Chuanchuan had stopped struggling, Murong Shi embraced the shorter woman and carried thetter to the bed. Then, she slowly said, "That woman is called Rosa.


    "We met on the airne when I was flying back from Taiwan. She''s an interior designer and a resident of S City. She moved to Taiwan after getting married, but she flew back to visit her rtives for a few days. I saw her work on the ne and found that her designs are good, so I ended up thinking about our condo. I originally nned to tell you about it only after she had finished making the designs."


    Xu Chuanchuan blinked her eyes in bewilderment.


    <em>All that struggling and mystery for a house renovation?</em>


    Still feeling skeptical, Xu Chuanchuan said, "But didn''t you promise me that we would set aside this matter after taking a look at the house that day? Why are you still in contact with her even now?"


    While helping Xu Chuanchuan tidy up her messy hair, Murong Shi scanned the room and said, "This room is just too small; we don''t even have room to store a few extra clothes. I''ve long since wanted to move. But I was worried you would disagree, so I secretly contacted her. I don''t want you to feel burdened just because I''m handling the house''s renovations."


    "..."


    "Chuanchuan, my house will be your house in the future. Just think of it as a present from my dad."


    "What present? A dowry?"


    "Mhm, a dowry," Murong Shi said with a smile.


    Xu Chuanchuan turned her head away in embarrassment. Then, she said, "If that''s the case, I can''t afford to marry you."


    "I''ll stick to you even if you can''t afford it. I don''t care even if you find it annoying. Don''t ever think of escaping from my hands," Murong Shi stated.


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan looked down and found Murong Shi tightly holding onto one of her hands. With their palms stuck together, they could vividly feel each other''s heartbeats, and hers was currently elerating without control.


    Taking advantage of Xu Chuanchuan''spse of attention, Murong Shi leaned in to kiss her lover.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly snapped out of her daze and blocked Murong Shi''s approaching mouth with her free hand. Then, she said with a straight face, "Don''t even think of tricking me with those sweet words."


    "I''m not tricking you. I''m telling the truth," Murong Shi said while looking at Xu Chuanchuan affectionately. And failing to reach her target, she switched to kissing Xu Chuanchuan''s palm instead.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s fingertips trembled when she sensed those soft and sulent lips touching her palm, and she quickly retracted her hand. Then, when she met with Murong Shi''s eyes, she momentarily felt her soul leaving her body.


    <em>Where did I leave off just now?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan nearly forgot about the matter at hand because of Murong Shi''s interruption. However, even after pondering over Murong Shi''s previous words, Xu Chuanchuan failed to find any ws in them. So, she asked in surprise, "All that just because of some renovation work?"


    "Otherwise, what else could it be?" Murong Shi asked while gently caressing Xu Chuanchuan''s face. "Don''t tell me you really thought I would fool around behind your back?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled the conversation she had with Ange in the bathroom, she couldn''t help but feel a little guilty. So, she turned away and said, "Even if you''re not fooling aroundI am your girlfriend. Yet, you changed your password and even secretly went out on a date. Who could ept such a thing?"


    Murong Shi forcibly turned Xu Chuanchuan''s face back to her and corrected her lover, saying, "I was only treating her to a meal. It wasn''t a date."


    In an aggravated tone, Xu Chuanchuan said, "If you want to treat her to a meal, then just do so. Why must you hide it from me? If I were to secretly go out with another woman without telling you and behave secretively even after getting discovered, how would you feel?"


    "I" For the first time, Murong Shi found herself unable to win against Xu Chuanchuan using words. Looking down, she pondered for a moment before saying, "I''m sorry, it was my mistake in this matter. I wasn''t honest enough with you. I also shouldn''t have kept you in the dark."


    Murong Shi''s sincere acknowledgment of her mistake softened Xu Chuanchuan''s heart. However, even though they had cleared up the misunderstanding between them already, Xu Chuanchuan still felt a little peeved by the situation. Puffing up her cheeks, she said, "Do you think you can get away with just a simple apology?"


    Then, Murong Shi raised her right hand and solemnly said, "I promise this will be thest time."


    Xu Chuanchuan rolled her eyes. Then, putting on a fierce look, she bit her mrs and said, "I''ll ignore you forever the next time you do such a thing again!"


    "Thencan you forgive me this time?"


    It was rare to see Murong Shi speaking in such a subservient tone, so Xu Chuanchuan caved in no time at all. However, she still pretended to be angry with Murong Shi as she stood up and said, "I''m going to take a shower."


    Murong Shi let out a stifledugh when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she said, "Did your anger muddle your memory? You already showered."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked down at the pajamas she wore and fell into a daze. Then, she red at Murong Shi and questioned, "You still dare to provoke me?"


    "...No, no." Murong Shi tried her best to hold back herughter. "Go ahead."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan left for the bathroom once more. Of course, she wasn''t going there for a shower.


    As soon as Murong Shi heard the bathroom door closing, the smile on her face disappeared, and she pulled out her phone. Then, she opened her WeChat and quickly typed out a message: "We''llmunicate via calls from now on. I''ll call you myself if somethinges up."


    The other party did not ask Murong Shi for a reason and simply replied with an "Okay."


    After receiving a reply, Murong Shi removed the other party from her friend list without a second thought.


    Xu Chuanchuan returned after relieving herself in the bathroom. When she came back to the room and saw Murong Shi fiddling with her phone, her heart thumped. However, she feigned calmness and asked, "What are you doing?"


    Looking up, Murong Shi said, "I changed back the password; it''s your birthday, just like before."


    Still feeling a little aggrieved over the matter, Xu Chuanchuan replied with a perfunctory "Oh."


    "Come here, I''ll record your fingerprint again."


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated for a moment before walking up to Murong Shi.


    Just as Xu Chuanchuan was about to sit on the bed, Murong Shi pulled the shorter woman into herp and embraced her lover from behind.


    Xu Chuanchuan obediently let Murong Shi grab her right index finger and record its fingerprint. While watching her fingerprint gradually take shape on the screen, she sourly said, "I wouldn''t have messed with your phone even if you didn''t change your password. The fact that you changed it just shows that you don''t trust me."


    Murong Shi did not voice any rebuttals and simply apologized, "I''m sorry."


    After recording the fingerprint, Murong Shi used Xu Chuanchuan''s index finger to type "Wife" for the registered fingerprint''s name. Upon seeing this word, even the tiniest bit of anger left within Xu Chuanchuan disappeared. Then, she turned to look at Murong Shi and said, "Of course, that excludes special circumstances. I only wanted to use your phone to call my mom just now."


    "I know." Looking into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, Murong Shi said, "I have never doubted your character. I just wanted to surprise you, so I tried my best to hide it from you."


    "There is no surprise anymore."


    Murong Shi kissed Xu Chuanchuan''s pursed lips and said, "There will be more in the future."


    After sliding down from Murong Shi''sp, Xu Chuanchuan rolled onto the bed and hugged her punching-bag-sh-pillow. Then, she said, "Fine. I''ll forgive you this time."


    Hearing this, Murong Shi leaned in to kiss Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, partway through the kiss, Xu Chuanchuan held down her pajamas and said, "I only said I would forgive you. I did not allow you to take a mile after getting an inch."


    "..."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan agilely sat up, stuffed the pillow into Murong Shi''s arms, and said, "I haven''t even written anything because I was busy arguing with you. I''m going back to work."


    After Xu Chuanchuan turned on herputer, her QQ messenger logged in automatically, and the messenger''s icon on the bottom-right corner of the screen shed repeatedly. Clicking on it, Xu Chuanchuan saw a message Ange sent her half an hour ago, saying: "If she really cheated on you, then you absolutely cannot forgive her. You need to dump her as soon as possible."


    Xu Chuanchuan secretly nced at Murong Shi after seeing this message, coincidentally meeting with Murong Shi''s eyes. "What are you looking at me for?"


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "Because you''re beautiful."


    Feeling embarrassed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Not as beautiful as you."


    Switching her posture, Murong Shiid down and supported her head with one hand. Then, she maintained her smile and said, "There''s the saying that beauty is in the eyes of the beholder."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart fluttering from the praise. She also found herself deeply attracted by Murong Shi''s eyes, and she couldn''t help but want to pounce on the other party and strip her naked


    However, when she recalled that she still had work to do, Xu Chuanchuan quickly suppressed her urges.


    After spending several minutes updating Ange on the situation, Xu Chuanchuan began working on her novel. By the time she was done writing, editing, and publishing the chapter, two hours had already gone by.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan wanted nothing more than to copse and fall asleep right now, she kept herself awake and went to the bathroom to wash her hands. When she returned, she found Murong Shi fiddling into her phone once more.


    Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan deliberately leaned into Murong Shi. Murong Shi did not avoid Xu Chuanchuan, either, as she said, "The girls in this group are interesting."


    Upon focusing her gaze, Xu Chuanchuan saw that her reader group''s chat window was disyed on the screen. After briefly looking through the disyed messages, she asked in surprise, "You sent another red packet?"


    "Just one; it''s not a lot."


    Having a hard time believing her lover''s words, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly grabbed her own phone and inspected her reader group''s chat log. Then, what she saw rendered her speechless.


    <em>A thousand yuan isn''t a lot?</em>


    However, 1,000 yuan was indeed a small amount of money for Murong Shi.


    After the group members had drained the red packet dry, the activity in the group did not settle down. Xu Chuanchuan even saw many people tagging her in the group. After swiping her finger across the screen, the messages she saw were as followed:


    Whenever I see Tycoon Shi sending a red packet, I would wonder what kind of special day today is.


    I''m the opposite. I would wonder if Tycoon Shi has done something to upset Lord again and if she is asking us for help, lololol.


    We should ask Lord about such matters. @I Love Mtang.


    Lord, is there no update today?

 Chapter 95: Pt.2

    Chapter 95: Pt.2


    Lord, is there no update today?


    Xu Chuanchuan had just published today''s chapter a few minutes ago, so she didn''t bother typing a reply. Just as she was about to continue scrolling down, Murong Shi snatched the phone out of her hands.


    "Aren''t you tired? Let''s sleep," Murong Shi said.


    "Okay." Xu Chuanchuan covered herself with the nket andid down.


    "By the way, is Tang Xin really visiting?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had almost forgotten about this matter. After hearing Murong Shi mentioning it, she said, "That''s right."


    "I thought you only said so to spite me," Murong Shi said, frowning. "What is she visiting for?"


    Back then, Xu Chuanchuan had been fuming over Murong Shi''s covert actions, so she didn''t have the time to ask Ange for the purpose of her visit. So, she shook her head and said, "I don''t know."


    "Is sheing to look for Fang Qin?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes instantly lit up as she excitedly said, "That''s a possibility!"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan sat up, grabbed her phone, and messaged Ange via QQ.


    Ange: "What are you talking about? Why would I want to find her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Are you reallying just to visit me? [Surprised]"


    Ange: "Thisis a long story."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "???"


    It was something that happened a few days ago


    After bing a full-time author, Ange would often work tillte at night and wake upte in the day. On one early morning, she woke up to the ringing of her phone.


    Annoyed and tired, Ange answered the call without checking the caller ID. Then, as soon as the call connected, she heard a weak voiceing through the phone, "Tang Xin, save me"


    Upon hearing this voice, Ange''s mind instantly snapped awake. After rubbing her eyes and looking at the phone''s screen, she found that it was an unknown number originating from S City.


    After putting the phone by her ear, Ange suspiciously asked, "Citrus?"


    "It''s me."


    "..." Ange inwardly cursed when she heard the other party''s confirmation. Then, in a disgusted voice, she asked, "What are you trying to do?"


    <em>I already cklisted herst time, so how can she still call me? Did she change to a new number again?</em>


    "Ah" Fragrant Citrus suddenly screamed hysterically. "This person is insane! He''s torturing me! Tang Xin, save me!"


    <em>Is it an act? But if it''s an act, isn''t this screaming a little too realistic?</em>


    Ange didn''t know what was happening on the other side, and her eardrums hurt a little because of Fragrant Citrus''s hysterical screaming. Just as she was about to speak up, the other side suddenly hung up, confusing Ange.


    Ange had gotten less than four hours of sleep, so she could hardly keep her eyes open. Without putting much thought into the matter, she tossed her phone aside and went back to sleep.


    By the time Ange woke up again, she had mostly forgotten about Fragrant Citrus''s call and only treated it as a nightmare. However, never did she think that Fragrant Citrus woulde knocking on her door three dayster.


    Ever since hiring an hourly maid service, Ange rarely went out to eat. At 11 o''clock every morning, the housekeeper from the hourly maid service would punctually visit her home. And by the time Ange woke up, the housekeeper would''ve already prepared lunch for her.


    As usual, Angezily fiddled with her phone on the bed after waking up. Only after hearing the housekeeper''s reminder that lunch was ready did shezily leave her room.


    However, there was a slight difference today as the housekeeper did not leave the house right away. Instead, looking at Ange, the housekeeper hesitantly said, "Miss Tang"


    "What is it?"


    "Do you have a friend called Fragrant Citrus?"


    "Auntie, how do you know about Fragrant Citrus?" Ange asked with widened eyes.


    "Because she''s currently outside your house."


    "<em>Cough</em>" Ange choked on some rice. "What did you say?"


    "She''s outside the house. I already noticed her when I arrived. She was still there when I left to take out the trash," the housekeeper said. Then, she sighed and continued, "That girl looks quite pitiful. I don''t know who beat her, but she had a swollen face and a bruised nose. I was quite frightened when I saw her, but seeing how afraid she looked, I decided to talk to her a bit. She told me she is your friend, so I asked her why she wouldn''te in. Then, she says she''s afraid you''ll refuse to meet her."


    Ange put down her chopsticks and quickly ran outside. In her hurry to open the door, she nearly knocked down Fragrant Citrus, who was about to ring the doorbell.


    It had been over a year since they broke up. Apart from asionally watching Fragrant Citrus''s stream out of boredom, Ange never met her ex-girlfriend again.


    After personally seeing Fragrant Citrus, Ange realized that the housekeeper hadn''t been exaggerating her words at all. The face in front of her was practically unrecognizable. When she looked carefully, she could even see traces of blood on the corners of Fragrant Citrus''s mouth.


    Ange gasped at this sight and took a step back.


    "Tang Xin, it''s me"


    Only after hearing Fragrant Citrus''s voice did Ange managed to verify the other party''s identity. After swallowing the rice in her mouth, Ange skeptically asked, "Your face...what happened?"


    Fragrant Citrus''s face was swollen, and her facial features were distorted. With tears rolling down her face, she said, "It''s not just my face; my whole body is covered in injuries. That scumbag locked me in a room, and he beats and yells at me every day. I only managed to escape because of a lucky opportunity."


    Ange couldn''t be bothered to ask who the "scumbag" Fragrant Citrus mentioned was. While trying to avoid looking at Fragrant Citrus''s face, she said, "Then, call the police! Why did youe looking for me?!"


    In a sobbing voice, Fragrant Citrus said, "I don''t dare to call the police. I heard he is very influential in S City. I''ll die an even worse death if I call the police. I also don''t dare to stay at that ce. I don''t have any friends, either. After thinking for a long time, I can only rely on you. Tang Xin, we''ve dated for half a year. Don''t you feel even a little bit distressed seeing me be like this?"


    "..." Honestly, Ange was not the slightest bit distressed.


    Then, Fragrant Citrus suddenly hugged Ange and said, "I really love you. I still have your phone number saved even after all this time. Please don''t chase me away, alright?"


    At that moment, not only did Ange not feel a shred of pity for Fragrant Citrus, but she even started to feel disgusted.


    Afterward, Fragrant Citrus said many other things, such as the things they did while they were still dating. However, even while looking at Fragrant Citrus''s sobbing expression, Ange remained unfazed.


    In the end, Ange even had to rely on the housekeeper to drag Fragrant Citrus away. Although the housekeeper had given her a strange look, Ange felt grateful for the middle-ageddy nheless. If it wasn''t for the housekeeper''s help, she definitely wouldn''t have been able to deal with that situation.


    Ange didn''t mind getting called a heartless person. She was only afraid that Fragrant Citrus would stubbornly stick to her. Left with no better choice, Ange eventually decided to leave her four pets with her cousin and take shelter in another ce.


    However, because of their different fields of work and interest, Ange had practically lost connection with all of her real-life friends. After pondering over the matter, the only person she could rely on was her good friend Xu Chuanchuan.


    Coincidentally, Xu Chuanchuan had brought up the matter of Murong Shi''s suspected infidelity at the time, so Ange decided to tell Xu Chuanchuan about her visit as well.


    After hearing Ange''s exnation, Xu Chuanchuan felt as if she had just read a drama novel. "How does she still have the gall to find you?"


    Ange: "Who knows?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Maybe she really loves you?"


    Ange: "Do you even believe such drivel?"


    Xu Chuanchuan indeed did not believe Fragrant Citrus''s words, either. Setting aside the fact that Fragrant Citrus had been sharing an ambiguous rtionship with Jiang Shaohua before, just the thought of Fragrant Citrus''s repeated attempts to nder her infuriated Xu Chuanchuan. Unable to contain her anger, she cursed: "She is too shameless."


    Ange did notment on this matter. Instead, she said: "I''m afraid to even go home now. I''ve been staying in a hotel for the past two days. I''ve also booked the ne ticket already, so I''ll be visiting you tomorrow."


    After ending their conversation, Xu Chuanchuan set down her phone and retold the story to Murong Shi.


    In response, Murong Shi expressed disgust and said, "This woman deserves it."


    "But she keeps pestering Ange. Now, Ange is so afraid that she doesn''t even dare to go home. What a scary person."


    However, Murong Shi chuckled when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words.


    "Why are youughing?"


    In a nd tone, Murong Shi said, "If Fragrant Citrus keeps on pestering her, that constitutes harassment. Tang Xin can just call the police at that time. Why would she need to make such a high-sounding excuse toe to visit you?"


    Partially understanding Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You mean Ange lied to me?"


    "I wouldn''t go so far to say that," Murong Shi said, pausing slightly. Then, she continued, "I just think that she isn''t sincerelying to visit you. She might be trying to find an adequate excuse toe meet a certain someone."


    Realization dawning upon her, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Fang Qin?"


    "That I do not know," Murong Shi said, shrugging.


    Ange''s flight took off early in the morning. When her nended, Xu Chuanchuan was still at work. Xu Chuanchuan initially thought to apply for leave to pick Ange up at the airport, but Murong Shi stopped her and said, "Leave it to Fang Qin. This is a good opportunity for her to perform."


    Xu Chuanchuan grew a little excited just thinking about the fireworks that would ensue once her two friends met. So, she hurriedly nodded and said, "Let Fang Qin go, then. She''ll definitely be willing to do it."


    "I''ve already sent her Fang Qin''s flight information," Murong Shi said. Then, changing the topic, she continued, "By the way, I''m going out to meet Rosater. I''ve held her up for too long already. I''ll also have to treat her to a meal. Rest assured, I''ll be bringing Linda with me this time."


    Feeling a little embarrassed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m not worried."


    "Good, then. I''ll be leaving now."


    "Mhm."


    To dismiss Xu Chuanchuan''s worries, Murong Shi brought Linda out of thepany with her. However, after reaching their destination, she had Linda wait in the car while she entered the teahouse designated as their meeting point by herself.


    "You arrived quickly," Rosamented. Rosa was born in S City, but as she spent most of her time living in Taiwan, her ent was more or less affected by that ce. So, her speech sounded a little soft.


    "Mypany is nearby," Murong Shi said before taking a seat across Rosa. "Have you been waiting for a long time?"


    "I arrived not long ago as well."


    Murong Shi called the waiter to bring the menu over. Then, she said, "Order whatever you want."


    While waiting for their order to arrive, Rosa handed Murong Shi a paper bag and said, "I''ve read all seven books already. I have to say that your girlfriend''s writing is wonderful."


    "Thank you," Murong Shi smiled. "She would be overjoyed if she heard that a senior editor of a publishing firm gave her such an evaluation."


    Looking at the car parked outside, Rosa asked, "Is the person in the car your girlfriend?"


    "No, that''s my assistant. I haven''t told my girlfriend about this matter yet."


    Surprised, Rosa asked, "Why not? Are you nning to give her a surprise?"


    Thinking of the unhappy situation that had taken cest night, Murong Shi bitterly smiled and said, "More like terrify her."


    "I don''t get it."


    However, Murong Shi did not borate any further. Instead, she retracted her smile and said, "Getting a physical publication is her dream. I won''t tell her until the matter is 100% confirmed. I don''t want her to be disappointed."

 Chapter 96: Pt.1

    Chapter 96: Pt.1


    There were few customers in the teahouse at this hour. Murong Shi and Rosa ordered a coffee and a milk tea, respectively. They also paired their drinks with some snacks.


    When the waiter served their order, they halted their conversation for the moment. Then, after taking a sip of her milk tea, Rosamented, "The milk tea in Taiwan is still better."


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi also took a sip of her coffee before asking, "Will you be returning soon?"


    "Yes." Setting down her cup, Rosa pointed her chin at the paper bag beside Murong Shi and said, "I was in a hurry this time, so I didn''t get to read through those books properly. However, while I might''ve only briefly looked through them, the lovely stories still attracted me deeply. I''ve been sacrificing sleep for the past few days to finish them."


    "I will say thank you on her behalf," Murong Shi said, smiling.


    "But it''s a bit too early to thank me."


    Murong Shi grew confused.


    Crossing her legs, Rosa solemnly said, "Taiwan indeed allows the publication of books of this genre. However, yuri is still a niche genre among the general audience. So, the difficulty of getting a publication is significantly greater."


    Murong Shi quietly listened to Rosa.


    Then, Rosa continued, "Because of the small audience, we have to consider not just the quality of the author''s work, but also the author''s reputation. Of course, I''m not saying that your girlfriend isn''t famous. I''ve seen her online statistics. From the number of views and bookmarks she has, she seems to be quite outstanding among yuri authors."


    "She often underestimates and ridicules herself, saying that she''s a nobody." Seeing that the other party was still behaving tactfully, Murong Shi frankly asked, "So, do you mean to say that her works are unfit for publication?"


    "No, no, no," Rosa hurriedly said and shook her head. "There is no question that your girlfriend''s work is excellent.


    "Her writing is exquisite, and her sweet love stories fit the market very well. If going by my personal preferences, I would very much like to cooperate with such an author. However, I need to make it clear to you that our editor-in-chief prefers novels with a strong narrative such as Ange''s novels."


    Speaking of Ange, Murong Shi couldn''t help but recall her chance encounter on her flight back from Taiwan.


    Murong Shi had gotten acquainted with Rosa while flying back from Taiwan. Of the three seats in their row, Linda sat in the window seat, Murong Shi sat in the middle seat, and Rosa sat in the outer seat. After the ne took off, Linda quickly fell asleep because of her exhaustion, while Murong Shi took out a magazine from the seat pocket in front of her.


    Unfortunately, the magazines prepared were all written in traditional Chinese, and reading them gave Murong Shi a headache. Just after she had returned the magazines and was about to get some shut-eye, she coincidentally caught a glimpse of the thick book the passenger beside her was reading.


    Meanwhile, probably aware of Murong Shi''s prying eyes, Rosa turned to her and smiled, saying, "Having nothing to do on a three-hour flight is boring, right?"


    Murong Shi didn''t expect Rosa to strike up a conversation with her. So, she smiled back and said, "Indeed, it is very boring."


    Then, Rosa suppressed her voice andined, "The magazines provided by this airline are boring as hell, so I always bring a book with me."


    Noticing the book Rosa held, Murong Shi examined Rosa''s face and asked, "Judging by your ent, you should also be from the Maind, right? But all of the words in your book are traditional characters. Isn''t it tough to read?"


    Flipping the pages of her book, Rosa said, "You mean this? I work as an editor in a Taiwanese publishing firm, so I read these characters every day. I''ve long since gotten used to them."


    By chance, Murong Shi noticed the words written on the book cover. And when she saw the words "Author Ange," she thought she was hallucinating and subconsciously muttered, "Ange?"


    "This is a maind author who is very well-known in the novel industry. The novels she writes are beautiful, but the genre is somewhat unique."


    Smiling, Murong Shi casually said, "I know this author."


    As if she had just found her soulmate, Rosa''s eyes sparkled as she asked, "Have you read her novels?"


    "A little bit," Murong Shi said, her mouth twitching slightly. "I know this author in real life. We''ve even shared more than a few meals."


    "What a coincidence!" Rosa eximed, her eyes widening in shock.


    This was also an unexpected situation for Murong Shi.


    Out of boredom, Murong Shi decided to continue her conversation with Rosa. She listened to Rosa talking on and on about Ange''s novels. Meanwhile, Rosa used this opportunity to ask about Ange, such as her height and temper in real life.


    After thinking about it for a while, Murong Shi summarized her answer and said, "She''s okay."


    Meanwhile, all of this happened a week ago.


    After retracting her thoughts, Murong Shi looked Rosa straight in the eye and said, "Please give it to me straight."


    Feeling a little embarrassed, Rosa said, "I am not the editor-in-chief, after all, so I cannot give you a definite answer. Do you know what I''m trying to say?"


    After pondering for a moment, Murong Shi said, "Then, how likely do you think that my girlfriend''s novel will receive approval for publication?"


    "I am only 50% confident right now. But I really like your girlfriend''s works, so I''ll do my best to convince the editor-in-chief once I return."


    In other words, the chances of Xu Chuanchuan''s novels being published were still up in the air.


    Murong Shi didn''t know much about matters rting to novel publication. So, she had previously exchanged WeChat information on the ne, and she would frequently pester Rosa, asking her many questions. Fortunately, Rosa was a patient and mild-tempered person, and she willingly shared plenty of detailed information with Murong Shi.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan had always said that she only intended to earn some pocket money through her novels and that she wasn''t doing it for fame, whenever she brought up Ange, Murong Shi could see the envy on her face.


    "Ange is going to sell the film rights to hertest novel again. I heard manypanies fought for it. How amazing."


    "Did you know? Before Ange even published a single chapter for hertest work, the publisher has already signed a contract with her. Hah... The treatment of a god-level author really is different."


    Xu Chuanchuan had spoken such words countless times.


    After dating together for half a year, Murong Shi had already gained a thorough understanding of her lover''s character. Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t settling for mediocrity because she wanted to. Instead, she felt that her abilities werecking, so she dared not hope for too much.


    So, after hearing Rosa talking about the publication matters of Ange''s novels on the ne, Murong Shi had the thought of helping Xu Chuanchuan get her novels published.


    Although Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t as famous as Ange, Murong Shi felt that the quality of Xu Chuanchuan''s work was not the slightest bit inferiorpared to Ange''s. So, why could Ange''s work receive publication while Xu Chuanchuan''s couldn''t?


    The frequent contact Murong Shi had with Rosa for the past few days was also for this matter. Murong Shi was indeed trying to give Xu Chuanchuan a surprise.


    However, Murong Shi also knew how difficult and unlikely the chances of getting a novel published, so before everything was set in stone, she didn''t wish for her lover to find out about it. And to prevent any possibilities of Xu Chuanchuan finding out, Murong Shi had changed her phone''s security measures.


    Only, Murong Shi had forgotten how much of a worrywart and a sensitive person Xu Chuanchuan was, and her preventive measures ended up causing Xu Chuanchuan to grow suspicious instead. They even nearly broke into an argument because of this situation.


    Since Rosa would be returning to Taiwan soon, Murong Shi treated her meet-up today as a send-off. Before leaving, she gave Rosa a set of beauty products and said, "Once the result is out, make sure to notify me about it. Contact me even if it fails."


    "Even if it fails?" Rosa asked in confusion.


    In response, Murong Shi frankly said, "I promised her I would be giving her a surprise. If your firm can''t publish the book, I n to fund the publication myself."


    "You want to self-publicize?"


    "Mhm. I want to fulfill her dream."


    Rosa was stunned by Murong Shi''s words. Then, after switching her gaze between the expensive beauty products and Murong Shi''s face, she enviously said, "You are very kind to your girlfriend."


    Murong Shi smiled but did not speak.


    After sending off Rosa, Murong Shi returned to the car.


    Linda had already been ying with her phone for half an hour. When she heard the door opening and saw Murong Shi getting into the car, she grew a little confused but kept her mouth shut.


    The desserts the teahouse served were good, so Murong Shi packed two sets and gave one to Linda. She also took the wheel so that Linda could eat in the car.


    Pointing at the other set, Linda asked the obvious, "Who''s that for?"


    "Who else?" Murong Shi said, smiling. Before stepping on the elerator, Murong Shi pulled out her phone and messaged Xu Chuanchuan: "Come to my office ten minutester. I''m bringing back something delicious for you."


    After returning to thepany, Linda went to deal with her work while Murong Shi returned to her office.


    However, when Murong Shi arrived in her office, she found the ce to be deserted. In addition, the curtains were closed, the air conditioner was silent, and the lights were dark. Confused, Murong Shi wondered, <em>Did she not see my message?</em>


    Murong Shi ced her car keys, bag, and desserts on her office desk. Just as she was about to pull out her phone and message Xu Chuanchuan, a person suddenly snuck out from under the desk.


    "Surprise!"

 Chapter 96: Pt.2

    Chapter 96: Pt.2


    "..." Murong Shi was given a big fright, nearly dropping her phone.


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had seen Murong Shi making such a flustered look, so she couldn''t help butugh out loud. Then, she asked, "Was it fun?"


    "Not at all," Murong Shi said, rolling her eyes. Then, she shoved the box of desserts to Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Xu Chuanchuan opened the box, she found two Portuguese tarts, two durian crisps, and two doughnuts inside. The sweet and milky fragrance the pastries emanated instantly entered her nostrils, and she instinctively inhaled deeply.


    Murong Shi chuckled when she saw the gluttonous look on her lover''s face. Then, she said, "Hurry up and eat them while they''re hot."


    "I can''t finish everything by myself," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she took a step closer to Murong Shi and said, "Let''s share them."


    "I''ve tried them already," Murong Shi said.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan ignored Murong Shi''s words and held up a tart to her lover''s mouth, saying, "Quick, quick, I only have five minutes."


    Murong Shi avoided the tart and jokingly asked, "What''s the hurry? Are we having an affair?"


    "Is five minutes even enough to have an affair?"


    Murong Shi smiled. Then, she deliberately put on a straight face and seriously said, "We''ll need at least two hours for that."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s face heated up. Then, she began urging Murong Shi once more, saying, "I really can''t leave my desk for too long. Come,e, I''ll feed you."


    Raising an eyebrow, Murong Shi wrapped an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s waist and said, "I already locked the door, so feed me with your mouth."


    "That will take too long!" Xu Chuanchuan stamped her feed. Then, she stuffed the tart into Murong Shi''s mouth before grabbing another one for herself.


    While the couple was eating, someone''s phone rang. Realizing that it was her phone ringing, Xu Chuanchuan thought it was her department chief or colleagues calling her. However, when she grabbed her phone and took a look, she found Ange''s name disyed on the screen. So, she hurriedly answered the call and asked, "Have you arrived?"


    Ange: "I just got off the ne. Are you here yet?"


    "Me? I" Xu Chuanchuan stammered. Then, when she saw Murong Shi nodding, she said, "I''m here, I''m here! Hurry up ande out! I have a big surprise for you!"


    "What big surprise?"


    "You''ll know once youe out. Alright, let''s continue talking once we meet up! Bye-bye!"


    Xu Chuanchuan hung up without waiting for the other party to respond. Then, while taking a bite out of a matcha doughnut, she said, "I wonder if she''ll get mad at me for tricking her?"


    "She should be thanking you instead," Murong Shi nonchntly said.


    Airport.


    After hearing that Xu Chuanchuan had prepared a big surprise for her, Ange couldn''t help but wonder what the surprise was while exiting the airport together with the crowd.


    The weather was growing colder recently, so Ange had brought many more clothes with her this time. Her suitcase also carried herptop. So, it was much heavier than thest time she visited S City.


    When Ange dragged her heavy suitcase out of the airport, she couldn''t help but wonder if she was hallucinating. After all, rather than Xu Chuanchuan, she had discovered the tall and skinny Fang Qin among the crowd outside instead.


    Approaching Ange with a smile, Fang Qin tenderly asked, "Are you tired?"


    Ange blinked her eyes in bewilderment. Instead of responding to Fang Qin immediately, she tried to search for Xu Chuanchuan''s silhouette among the crowd. However, after failing to locate her good friend, she returned her sights to the person in front of her and asked, "Why is it you?"


    Instead of answering Ange''s question, Fang Qin asked, "Do you not want it to be me?"


    "..." Ange wet her dried lips and let her eyes wander in panic. This is her surprise???


    Fang Qin stepped closer to Ange while thetter wasn''t paying attention. Then, she said, "Let''s go."


    Before Ange could react, Fang Qin had already snatched her suitcase away.


    "I can pull it myself," Ange said as she tried to snatch back her suitcase. However, while doing so, she identally touched Fang Qin''s hand. Then, she instantly retracted her hand as if electrocuted.


    Seemingly failing to notice Ange''s actions, Fang Qin pointed at the parking lot outside and said, "That white car there is mine."


    "...Thank you."


    "You''re wee."


    It had been half a month since theirst meeting. After Fang Qin returned to S City, the two of them had remained in contact with each other, though none of their conversations ever crossed any lines. After getting into the car, Fang Qin sighed ruefully and said, "I didn''t think we would meet again so soon."


    While looking at the car''s decorations, Ange pretended to be calm and said, "I didn''t expect it, either."


    "Did youe here specifically to visit Chuanchuan?" Fang Qin asked while boldly scrutinizing Ange''s body.


    "Something like that," Ange guiltily said.


    "I thought"


    "Thought what?"


    "Nothing." Fang Qin faintly smiled. Then, she reminded Ange to fasten her seatbelt and started the car. "I''ll take you out for some food first."


    "I''m not hungry," Ange hurriedly said. "I already ate on the ne."


    "Then"


    "You can take me straight to a hotel," Ange interrupted.


    Fang Qin''s gaze lowered when she heard Ange''s words. Then, she responded with a subdued "okay."


    Afterward, the two behaved like strangers, neither of them paying any attention to each other. The inside of the car was quiet, so quiet that Ange began fidgeting in her seat. Then, unable to take the silence any longer, Ange asked, "Can I y some songs?"


    "Sure," Fang Qin said before turning on the stereo.


    After finally hearing some background noise, Ange''s tensed nerves loosened slightly.


    "How long will you be staying?" Fang Qin asked.


    After thinking it over, Ange replied, "I don''t know. I''ll see how things go first."


    "You cane to find me if you''re bored."


    Ange did not follow up with Fang Qin''s offer. After looking at the scenery outside speeding past her for some time, she grew bored and straightened her head. "By the way, you left something at my house."


    "What is it?" Fang Qin asked in surprise.


    "It''s that blue nightgown. You left it hanging on the balcony."


    Afterbing through her memories, Fang Qin smiled and said, "So that''s why I couldn''t find it."


    Fang Qin had kept her eyes focused on the road ahead throughout the drive. Noticing this, Ange kept ncing at Fang Qin''s face through the rear-view mirror. However, Fang Qin suddenly looked at the rear-view mirror at this time, catching Ange red-handed.


    "You don''t really need to give it back."


    "Why?"


    When Fang Qin looked at the rear-view mirror again, she found that Ange had lowered her eyes. Then, she teasingly said, "You can keep it as a souvenir."


    Ange opened her mouth but failed to utter any words. While nervously clutching her phone in one hand and the seatbelt in her other hand, she feigned calmness and said, "No need. I have a lot of nightwear at home."


    The airport was a distance away from the city, so the two asionally exchanged a few words to pass the time. However, their conversation was limited to their daily lives and nothing more.


    To deepen their rtionship, Fang Qin decided to ask about Ange''s cake shop and pets. She even asked about Ange''s housekeeper.


    Basically, Fang Qin asked all the questions while Ange would answer everything like a robot. Both of them had their own worries, and neither of them could let go and speak frankly. Hence, the atmosphere between them was dry, so dry that Ange wanted to drink some water.


    When they were close to reaching the city, traffic started bing congested. Seeing the slow traffic, Fang Qin asked, "There''s a Home Inn near my workce. Do you want to stay there?"


    Looking up from her phone and turning to Fang Qin, Ange said, "Anything."


    Fang Qin tightened her grip over the steering wheel and stared at the red light timer in front of her. Then, she said, "If you don''t want to stay at a hotel, you can stay at my house instead."


    Surprised, Ange asked, "Why your house?"


    "No, to be precise, it''s an apartment I''m renting outside," Fang Qin said. Then, after a slight pause, she continued, "I stayed at your ce for two daysst time without paying a cent. Now that you''vee to S City, it''s only right that I entertain you."


    There were no ws in Fang Qin''s words. However, when Ange thought about how inconvenient and awkward it would be for them to stay under the same roof, she hesitated.


    Ange''s main goal in visiting S City this time was to avoid Fragrant Citrus, so she didn''t know when she would be able to go back. She had even brought herptop in preparation for a long stay. However, if she were to stay in Fang Qin''s house, she was certain she would be a nervous wreck again and be unable to work, just like the time Fang Qin had stayed over at her house.


    After weighing her options, Ange said, "Nevermind. I think it''d be better if I stayed at a hotel."


    Hearing Ange''s reply, Fang Qin turned to stare at the other party and asked, "Are you scared of me?"


    "..." Letting out a dryugh, Ange said, "We are both women. Not to mention, you have a much better temper than I do. Why would I be scared of you?"


    Fang Qin hesitated for a moment before eventually choosing to remain silent.


    After dropping Ange off at the hotel, Fang Qin had to leave. Before leaving, she said, "I''m sorry. I only took a half-day leave, so I need to go back to work."


    "Go on, then," Ange said. She wanted nothing more than for Fang Qin to leave as soon as possible.


    However, when Fang Qin eventually left, Ange suddenly found herself feeling bored. With nothing better to do, she decided to get some sleep.


    When six o''clock arrived, Xu Chuanchuan called Ange and said, "Me and Murong areing over to pick you up. We''ll go have dinner together afterward."


    Ange was still in a daze, so she gave a blurry reply before getting out of bed to freshen up.


    Murong Shi was responsible for choosing their dinner venue. Shortly after the three of them arrived at the restaurant, Fang Qin also arrived in a hurry.


    With others around, Ange didn''t be as flustered as before when she met Fang Qin once more. Partway through the meal, she dragged Xu Chuanchuan to the restroom and demanded, "Why did you have her pick me up?"


    Looking at her friend''s annoyed expression, Xu Chuanchuan cheekily smiled and said, "Stop pretending, Little Ange. We know everything already."


    "Know what?"


    Clearing her throat, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Fang Qin told Murong that her flight back from Shanghai got canceled because of a typhoon and that you let her stay at your house."


    "..."


    "Did anything exciting happen between you two?" Xu Chuanchuan asked in a whisper.


    "...No."


    "Really?" Xu Chuanchuan asked, moving her face closer to Ange.


    "Nothing happened!" Ange said with a blush on her face. "Tang''er, since when have you be so indecent?"


    "Tch. You''re much more indecent than I am."


    "..."


    The arrival of another person in the restroom interrupted their conversation. After finishing their business in the restroom, they walked back to their seat, hand-in-hand.


    "Have you ordered?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    "What took you so long?" Murong Shi asked, her eyes trying to burn a hole through Xu Chuanchuan and Ange''s held hands.


    Sensing the threatening gaze, Xu Chuanchuan quickly loosened Ange''s hand and returned to her seat beside Murong Shi. Then, she said, "There were many people."


    cing the menu in front of Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi said, "Fang Qin and I each ordered a dish. You two order the rest."


    While flipping through the menu, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Little Ange, what do you want to eat?"


    "Anything. You order for me."


    "Okay."


    "Little Ange?" Fang Qin asked, pretending to be surprised.


    Ange''s face twitched a little when she heard Fang Qin mentioning her pen name. Then, she started faking coughs and sending visual signals to Xu Chuanchuan.


    Realizing her blunder, Xu Chuanchuan let her eyes wander for a moment before confessing, "Actually, Fang Qin already knows about your work. I told her about it.


    Surprised by this revtion, Ange looked toward Fang Qin and asked, "Since when?"


    "Since the second time we met," Fang Qin said in slight embarrassment.


    "..."


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan interrupted them and said to Ange, "This is my fault. I really wanted to match you two together. I was afraid that you two wouldn''t have anymon topics, so I told Fang Qin about your work."


    Being a novel author wasn''t anything to be ashamed of, so Ange wasn''t mad at Xu Chuanchuan. She just felt a little surprised.


    Meanwhile, after carefully observing Ange''s expression and seeing that she wasn''t angry, Fang Qin said, "I already read all of your books."


    Finding it awkward to talk about her work in person, Ange responded with a stiff smile as she didn''t know how to respond.


    Then, Fang Qin continued, "I even left you many long reviews. Maybe you''ve noticed them."


    "What''s your ID?" Ange asked, feeling a little surprised.


    "My ID is ''Water Heart.''"


    "..." Ange had no recollection of the name whatsoever. After all, she received manyments and reviews every day.


    As an author herself, Xu Chuanchuan could understand Ange''s current predicament. Xu Chuanchuan could also tell that Ange was reluctant to talk about her work, so Xu Chuanchuan interrupted, "This restaurant''s business is pretty good. There are so many people here today."


    Ange sent a grateful look to Xu Chuanchuan.


    The four of them spent a long time in the restaurant. They also talked a lot. When they left the restaurant, Fang Qin looked toward Ange and offered, "Your hotel is on the way, so let me drop you off."


    Ange did not refuse.


    The more Xu Chuanchuan looked at the two, the more she found them to be a matching pair. Revealing a happy smile, she said, "Then, we''ll be leaving first. Little Ange, I''lle to find you again tomorrow.


    Ange absent-mindedly nodded in response.


    The drive from the restaurant to the hotel was short, and Fang Qin''s car arrived in front of Ange''s hotel in no time at all.


    "Thank you," Ange said while unbuckling her seatbelt. However, just as she was about to open the car door, someone caught her wrist.


    Noticing the look of surprise in Ange''s eyes, Fang Qin quickly released her grip and smiled, saying, "I like your novels a lot."


    Ange awkwardly shook her hand a little before politely saying, "Thank you."


    "But that''s not all I like," Fang Qin added. Then, she looked into Ange''s eyes and earnestly said, "I like you, too."


    "..."


    TL Notes:


    I made some changes to thest part of this chapter because it''s basically a y on words that don''t trante well.

 Chapter 97: Pt.1

    Chapter 97: Pt.1


    Ever since that night of absurdity, Ange had frequently thought to herself, <em>What is my rtionship with Fang Qin?</em>


    <em>Are we friends? Pen pals?</em>


    If it wasn''t for Fragrant Citrus harassing her this time, Ange felt that she might never meet Fang Qin ever again. In that case, Fang Qin would be nothing but a passerby in her life.


    <em>Since she is a passerby, I don''t need to invest too many emotions into her. I don''t need to get too involved with her.</em>


    Ange had repeatedly told this to herself throughout her flight from Shanghai to S City. However, when she met Fang Qin again at the airport, she realized that she still couldn''t let go.


    As soon as Ange saw that familiar face again, she immediately recalled that night. She couldn''t forget the messy kiss that carried the scent of alcohol, and neither could she forget the scorching hands that burnt her body. Ange also vividly remembered the time when Fang Qin stayed over at her house. She remembered the blue nightgown Fang Qin wore, the time Fang Qin grabbed her hands and refused to let go, and the passionate gaze Fang Qin used to look at her at the time.


    Fang Qin was by no means stunningly beautiful. She wasn''t a match for Fragrant Citrus, whether it be in terms of appearance or figure. Yet, for some reason, Ange found herself constantly thinking about the woman.


    After Fang Qin left her house, Ange had trouble sleeping the first few nights. Whenever Ange closed her eyes, that woman''s face would appear in her mind, her smile exuding a fatal temptation.


    Ange had always thought that woman was poisonous.


    For this reason, Ange had her housekeeper do a thorough clean-up of her home as if doing so would erase the fact that Fang Qin had ever visited the ce.


    However, when Ange saw the blue satin nightgown mixed in theundry the housekeeper did, she started losing her mind once again.


    Ange had originally thought to throw the sexy nightgown away. However, when the housekeeper heard Ange''s decision, she said, "It''d be a waste to throw away such a good nightgown."


    Ange hesitated because of these words.


    In the end, Ange had kept the nightgown and even brought it with her to S City. She had initially nned to return it to Fang Qin, but because Fang Qin had left in such a hurry, she didn''t manage to take it out in time.


    Ange also remembered the words Fang Qin said before she left: "Next time."


    These two words were akin to a hint. After settling into her hotel room, Ange even suspected that the woman had deliberately left in a hurry.


    At this time, the sky had darkened already, though the street was brightly lit. The hotel Ange stayed at was right before her, yet she couldn''t get close to it because she found that the car doors and windows were locked.


    The car''s soundproofing was excellent, and Ange could hear almost none of the noise outside. There was also no music ying this time, so the inside of the car was so quiet that one could even hear the sound of a pin dropping.


    As soon as Fang Qin said those words, Ange stopped breathing. As if someone had struck her acupuncture points, her eyes became hollow, and her expression became dull. Simultaneously, a voice emerged from the bottom of her heart, asking: What just happened?


    The few short seconds spent in silence were akin to torture for Fang Qin. She knew that she was acting impulsively this time, but this impulsiveness came from her heart. Moreover, it was difficult for them to meet even once, and nobody knew when their next meeting would be. So, she didn''t wish to wait any longer.


    Only, Ange''s reaction looked as if she had been frightened


    "Tang Xin?"


    Ange snapped back to reality and met with Fang Qin''s eyes filled with anticipation. Then, wetting her lips, she asked, "W-What did you say?"


    <em>Did she not hear me? Whatever. I''ve already gone this far, so what''s the point of caring about my dignity?</em>


    After sorting out her emotions, Fang Qin locked eyes with Ange and said, "I like you."


    The three words hammered Ange''s heart, verifying the fact that she had not misheard. Fang Qin was indeed confessing to her.


    <em>But isn''t this too sudden?</em>


    Ange didn''t know if it was because of the dry air in the car or something else, but she felt her throat tightening, and she couldn''t help but swallow some saliva.


    After another period of silence, Fang Qin started growing anxious. So, she carefully spoke up once more, "I wish to know what you feel about me."


    <em>What do I feel? About you?</em>


    Ange was unable to process Fang Qin''s question as her mind was aplete nk right now.


    <em>No, this won''t do. My heart still isn''t ready yet,</em> Ange thought in a panic. Then, pretending to be calm, she said, "If I recall correctly, this is only our fourth meeting. Can I know when you started liking me?"


    "The first time," Fang Qin answered without hesitation.


    Ange was stunned, but she quickly hid her astonishment. Then, with a false smile, she said, "The first time? But you were drunk that night."


    Fang Qin grew embarrassed when she recalled her gaffe that night. Then, she exined, "I didn''t forget anything after waking up. I remember your looks, your voice, and your"


    Sensing Fang Qin''s passionate gaze scanning her lips and other parts of her body, Ange immediately felt her body heating up. Biting her lower lip, she interrupted, "Stop."


    Fang Qin felt her heartbeat quickening when she saw the reddened tips of Ange''s ears. Then, she softly said, "Even though you keep avoiding me, I know that you"


    Ange felt her nerves tense up a little with every word Fang Qin uttered. Just as the string in her heart was about to snap


    Someone''s phone suddenly rang, giving both of them a scare. The ringing phone interrupted Fang Qin''s words and gave Ange a sense of liberation.


    Just as Fang Qin was about to continue speaking


    Ange noticed that the ringing came from Fang Qin''s phone. Afraid to hear what Fang Qin had to say, Ange said, "Someone''s calling you."


    Fang Qin hesitated for a moment before retrieving her phone from her bag. Then, when she looked at the screen, her expression changed slightly.


    Ange turned her head away and tried to open the door. Unfortunately, it refused to open.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin answered the call and put her phone by her ear. Before she even managed to open her mouth, the person on the other side said something that caused her face to instantly turn white.


    Ange coincidentally saw this change. Although she found this development somewhat strange, she tacitly remained quiet.


    "Don''t panic; I''ll head over right away," Fang Qin said before ending the call.


    Sensing that something was amiss, Ange ignored the embarrassment she previously felt and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Fang Qin''s face no longer had its previousposure as she quickly said, "My dad fainted with a bleeding stomach!"


    Ange was inwardly frightened by this news, so she quickly said, "Then, you should quickly go see him."


    Subsequently, Fang Qin unlocked the door and let Ange out of the car. Then, she drove off without another word.


    Ange returned to the hotel by herself.


    After returning to herrge and empty room, she copsed onto her bed in exhaustion and idly stared at the chandelier above her.


    <em>What kind of coincidence is this? Why did something have to happen to her father at this time? I wonder if her father''s condition is serious?</em>


    <em>If it wasn''t for that call</em>


    Ange sat up and shook her head to get rid of her nonsensical thoughts. Yet, no matter how much she shook her head, Fang Qin''s voice lingered in her ears like a curse. So, she took out her phone, plugged in her earphones, and yed music at the loudest volume to numb her mind.


    Afraid that Ange would be bored by herself, Xu Chuanchuan gave her friend a call after finishing lunch. When the call connected and she heard Ange''s hoarse and weak voiceing through the phone, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Don''t tell me you were still sleeping?"


    However, Ange said, "I didn''t sleep at allst night."


    "Were you writing the entire night?"


    "I yed games the entire night."


    "..." This was unlike Ange''s normal behavior, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but worry if her friend was unused to living in S City. "Why don''t you try to get some sleep now?"


    "Mhm."


    "Go to sleep. I''ll go find you after work."


    Before Xu Chuanchuan could hang up, Ange suddenly shouted, "Come by yourself tonight. I have something to talk to you about."


    Finding Ange''s behavior to be abnormal, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Did you get sick?"


    "No. We''ll talk about itter."


    After work, Xu Chuanchuan told Murong Shi that she would be visiting Ange by herself. Feeling upset, Murong Shi asked, "What is she trying to do inviting you to her hotel?"


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that her lover''s jealousy was acting up again, so she hurriedly exined, "Her tone sounded off when I spoke to her this afternoon. I think it must be something very important."


    Murong Shi remained silent for a while before saying, "I''ll drop you off before I visit Fang Qin''s father at the hospital."


    Fang Qin had calledst night saying that her father had been hospitalized. Murong Shi had been friends with Fang Qin for more than two decades, so she naturally had to visit her father.


    Then, the two set off aftering to an agreement.

 Chapter 97: Pt.2

    Chapter 97: Pt.2


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi set off aftering to an agreement.


    After finding out that Ange had not left the hotel the entire day, Xu Chuanchuan bought some delicious food on the way. When Ange opened the door for her, Xu Chuanchuan saw that her friend had dark circles under her eyes and her face looked void of energy. Concerned, Xu Chuanchuan reached out to touch Ange''s forehead.


    "Don''t worry, I''m not sick," Ange said in a sickly voice.


    "You''re telling me you''re not sick when you look like this? Did something irritate you? Did Fragrant Citruse to harass you again?"


    Ange limply copsed onto the bed and sneered, saying, "I''m not that dumb to waste my energy on her."


    When clearing the coffee table, Xu Chuanchuan noticed several cigarette butts in the ashtray. Then, looking at Ange''s frustrated expression, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you in a bad mood because you can''t write anything?"


    Shaking her head, Ange said, "I just feel annoyed."


    "What''s annoying you?" Xu Chuanchuan stood up and walked to the bedside. Then, looking down at her friend, she said, "By the way, did you know that Fang Qin''s father got hospitalized?"


    Ange''s eyes flickered at these words. Then, she replied with an "mhm."


    "Then, did anything happen between..."


    "What food did you bring me?" Ange deliberately interrupted.


    Ange''s attempt to divert the conversation topic worked as Xu Chuanchuan said, "I brought you some pan-fried buns and roast duck. Come on, get up and eat them now. They won''t taste as good once they''re cold."


    After staying up all night and not eating for the entire day, Ange was indeed starving right now.


    "They''re delicious."


    "Eat more, then," Xu Chuanchuan said as she sat down on the edge of the bed. Then, she pulled out her phone and continued, "Murong should''ve reached the hotel already. I''ll ask her about Fang Qin''s father."


    Ange''s eyebrows twitched slightly as she took a pan-fried bun filled with duck meat. However, she chose to remain silent.


    Xu Chuanchuan received a reply from Murong Shi shortly after she sent her message. After looking through the content, she said, "Fang Qin''s father has already gone through surgery and is no longer in any danger. But he still has to stay at the hospital, so Fang Qin might have to apany him for the next few days."


    Ange''s eyshes trembled. However, she continued remaining silent.


    Putting down her phone, Xu Chuanchuan leaned closer and said, "I''ll wrap it for you."


    "Why?" Ange asked as she looked at Xu Chuanchuan.


    While putting on a pair of transparent gloves, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Just look at your shaking hands. I can''t stand to look at you anymore."


    Ange''s expression stiffened. Then, she said, "I only got three hours of sleep. If you were in my shoes, you would shake even more severely."


    "Serves you right. Who told you to stay up all night?" Xu Chuanchuan said as she pushed Ange''s hands away with a look of disgust. Then, while holding a pan-fried bun in one hand and picking up some duck meat using the other hand, Xu Chuanchuan continued, "Murong wrapped the buns for me the first time I had roast duck. My stomach nearly exploded because of how many she stuffed into me."


    "Stop unting your affection in front of me," Ange said, clicking her tongue.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan delightfully said, "I''m telling it to you on purpose. Jealous? If you''re jealous, then hurry up and start dating someone. I think Fang Qin is a good choice. She''s beautiful and considerate. She also looks like a good match for you."


    Ange''s expression turned strange when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''sment. Then, she asked, "You think so as well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan eagerly nodded and said, "I wouldn''t be trying so hard to match you two together, otherwise."


    After receiving the bun and taking a bite out of it, Ange vaguely said, "She confessed to mest night."


    Xu Chuanchuan froze. Then, she looked at Ange in surprise and asked, "What did you say? She confessed?!?!"


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s excitement instantly shot through the roof. Dropping the bun and duck meat in her hands, she eagerly asked, "Then? What happened next?"


    After taking another bite, Ange ndly said, "Nothing."


    "Huh?"


    "...She got a call saying that her dad fainted from a bleeding stomach. Then, she left."


    "You two got interrupted?"


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan let out a sigh of regret. Then, she suddenly thought of something and grabbed Ange''s wrist, identally rubbing some soy sauce onto Ange in doing so. Noticing this, she stuck out her tongue and said, "Sorry."


    Ange remained indifferent as she grabbed a piece of napkin and wiped her wrist.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan carefully observed Ange''s expression. After failing to notice any emotions, she asked, "Then, do you like her?"


    Ange fell into thought for a moment. Then, she said, "I don''t know."


    "How can you not know if you like her or not?"


    After tossing the dirty napkin onto the table, Ange looked down and said, "At the beginning, I just wanted to have sex with her."


    "W-W-What are you talking about?!" Xu Chuanchuan was thunderstruck by Ange''s frankness.


    Ange did not respond to Xu Chuanchuan''s exmation. Instead, she calmly finished the bun in her hand and nced at her friend, asking, "Didn''t you say you were going to help me do the wrapping?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan promptly wrapped another duck bun for Ange. Then, she asked, "Are you trying to say that you only like Fang Qin''s body?"


    "I don''t know."


    Confused by her friend''s words, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "So, what exactly are you trying to say?"


    Ange choked a little. After taking a sip of soy milk, she slowly said, "Do you remember the time you first visited me in Shanghai? Specifically, the time when we had supper together after visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower in the evening. Fang Qin also joined uster on."


    "I still remember." Xu Chuanchuan nodded. "I remember that you sent Fang Qin back. Wait, don''t tell me you two...at that time... No way! Did you two...do it?"


    "No," Ange curtly responded, her face heating up slightly. "I already met her before that day."


    "I know."


    "No, you don''t know," Ange said before pausing. Then, she looked away in embarrassment before continuing, "She was drunk that night and identally bumped into my car. Then, after I sent her back to the hotel, she...kissed me."


    "Wow" Xu Chuanchuan eximed. "I didn''t think Fang Qin was so aggressive!"


    "I won''t continue if you keep acting like this."


    "Okay, okay, okay, I won''t speak anymore. Please continue," Xu Chuanchuan said as she made a zipping motion across her mouth. Then, she looked at Ange with eyes filled with excitement and anticipation.


    Ange sighed in frustration at this sight. Then, she started telling Xu Chuanchuan in detail about the things that happened after she "picked up" Fang Qin.


    When Ange was finished with her tail, Xu Chuanchuan pped her gloved hands and said, "How exciting! It would''ve been a one-night stand if you didn''t run away at that time!"


    Ange choked on the soymilk she was sipping. Then, she took off her gloves and said, "I''m going to wash my hands."


    Though Ange said she was going to wash her hands, what she ended up doing was drowning her face in cold water to calm herself.


    When Ange left the bathroom, Xu Chuanchuan had already prepared several more roast duck buns. Then, looking at her friend, Ange said, "I think it''s impossible between her and me."


    "Why not?"


    "After Fragrant Citrus''s incident, I feel that long-distance rtionships are unreliable. I think I already told you this before."


    "But Fang Qin isn''t Fragrant Citrus," Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said. "Maybe you don''t understand Fang Qin too well, but once she falls in love with someone, she won''t care about the distance at all. Did you know? For the sake of her first love, she..."


    "First love?"


    "Uh..." Realizing the blunder she subconsciously made, Xu Chuanchuan faked a cough and said, "You misheard."


    Interest suddenly filled Ange. Then, she eagerly asked, "I''ve heard her mentioning her first love when chatting with her before, but I didn''t pry too deeply at the time. Do you know anything about it? I want to hear it."


    It was rude to disclose other people''s private matters. However, after giving the matter some thought, Xu Chuanchuan felt that if doing so would help Ange and Fang Qin, it might not be bad to do so after all.


    "Fang Qin had it rough. In the past, she ruined her rtionship with her parents just to be with her ex-girlfriend. She even gave up her job in the country to apany the girl, who wanted to study abroad in Ennd. But then the girl dumped her."


    Frowning, Ange asked, "What led to the break-up?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help herself from bing angry whenever she spoke about this topic. So, with a little biased emotion in her voice, she said, "It seems that the girl''s mother used suicide to threaten them to break up. That girl couldn''t bear the pressure, so she eventually dumped Fang Qin and returned to the country. Fang Qin loved her for three years. That girl really is cruel and selfish."


    Ange didn''t express her thoughts after listening to Xu Chuanchuan''s tale. Instead, she lowered her head and fell into thought.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan sighed and said, "Sometimes, I feel that Fang Qin is quite lonely and pitiful. But sometimes, I also envy her a lot."


    "Envy what?"


    "I envy her for having such courage. If a woman is willing to give up so much to be with me, I wouldn''t ever think of letting her go," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, she smiled at Ange and continued, "Fang Qin is a good person. It''s definitely worth bing her girlfriend."


    How could Ange not understand her friend''s hint? Revealing a bitter smile, Ange said, "But I''m not worthy of her."


    "You''re wonderful, too!" Xu Chuanchuan voiced her disagreement.


    "I think I''m quite the scumbag."


    "How so?"


    Ange smiled but did not speak. Then, she picked up one of the duck buns and began eating in silence.


    ...


    For the next few days, Fang Qin remained in the hospital, apanying her father. Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know if Fang Qin had kept in touch with Ange during these days, and she didn''t dare to ask, either.


    "I can take some time off to apany you," Xu Chuanchuan suggested after visiting Ange. "You hardly visited anywhere thest time you came to S City."


    However, Ange''s expression remained dull as she said, "No need. It''s too cold outside."


    Thest time Ange visited S City, she hadined about the weather being too hot and refused to go out. This time, she wasining that it was too cold. So, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel that her friend was just making excuses.


    They had known each other for many years, so Xu Chuanchuan knew Ange was generally a carefree person. So, when she looked at her friend''s depressed mood, she tentatively asked, "Are you thinking about Fang Qin?"


    "No," Ange denied."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that her friend was deceiving herself, but she decided not to expose Ange''s lie. Instead, she changed the topic and said, "It''s going to be my grandpa''s 80th birthday in a few days. Do you want to go to Xian City with Murong and me for a few days?"


    Ange pondered for a moment before nodding in agreement. After all, it was quite boring to be alone in a foreign city.


    Coincidentally, Fang Qin visited Ange on the day of departure. When she saw Ange leaving the hotel with a suitcase in hand, she revealed a surprised look and asked, "Are you leaving?"


    "Mhm," Ange replied without much thought.


    Immediately, a hint of loneliness shed across Fang Qin''s pale face. Then, she tentatively asked, "Is it because...you''re trying to avoid me?"


    Ange wasn''t sure if she was seeing things, but she found that Fang Qin''s face looked thinner than before. Fang Qin looked dispirited, and her eyes conveyed exhaustion.


    Ange felt her heart clench slightly. Then, while avoiding Fang Qin''s gaze, she feigned calmness and said, "I''m not returning to Shanghai. Chuanchuan''s grandpa is celebrating his birthday soon, so she asked me to visit Xian City with her for a few days."


    "Will you being back here afterward?" Fang Qin eagerly asked.


    "...Probably."


    Fang Qin let out a long sigh of relief when she heard Ange''s answer. Then, she smiled and reluctantly said, "Then, you guys have fun. I''ll wait for you toe back."


    Ange felt her heart skipping a beat when she heard the second half of Fang Qin''s words. The calmness she maintained on the surface also gradually faltered.


    Fortunately for Ange, Xu Chuanchuan arrived at this time. Seeing that Fang Qin was also present, Xu Chuanchuan invited her to go along with them.


    However, after looking at Ange, Fang Qin faintly smiled and said, "I''ll pass. I have a lot of work piled up because of the past few days."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t insist on the matter and simply waved goodbye to Fang Qin.


    After parting ways with Fang Qin, Xu Chuanchuan and Ange got into the backseat of Murong Shi''s car. Seeing this, Murong Shi frowned and said to Xu Chuanchuan, "The backseat is for Xiangxiang. You sit in the front."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan waved her hand and said, "It''s the same wherever I sit. Hurry up and start driving."


    "..." For a moment, Murong Shi couldn''t help but feel that her ce in Xu Chuanchuan''s heart had fallen after Ange''s arrival.


    Meanwhile, when Ange met Murong Shi''s eyes through the rear-view mirror, she provocatively rolled her eyes at the other party. Then, she deliberately leaned closer to Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Just look at her eyes. It feels like she''s trying to eat me alive."


    Xu Chuanchuan burst outughing. Then, while patting her chest, she said, "It''s okay. I''ll protect you."


    Then, Murong Shi stomped on the elerator to vent her anger.


    In reality, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t trying to anger Murong Shi. Only, after seeing Ange in a depressed mood for the past few days, she decided to spend more time talking to her friend.


    Afterward, they stopped by Xu Xiangxiang''s university to pick the girl up. When they arrived, they found Xu Xiangxiang dressed like a ball. Then, after Xu Xiangxiang got into the car and saw Ange, she eximed, "Wow! A beauty!"


    "Hello," Ange greeted.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan briefly introduced her little sister and Ange to each other.


    There was no need to worry about an awkward atmosphere with Xu Xiangxiang around. After the girl got into the car, she bbered incessantly. She spoke about trivial things regarding her dormitory to things rted to her job as a streamer. "Something big happened in our studio some time ago. Do you guys want to hear it?"


    "No, so you can shut up now," Xu Chuanchuan said, deliberately pouring cold water on her little sister.


    However, Xu Xiangxiang insisted on going against her elder sister''s wishes, so she said, "It''s rted to that streamer called Sweet Melon. Are you sure you don''t want to hear it?"


    <em>Sweet Melon? Isn''t she Fragrant Citrus? </em>With her interest piqued, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What happened to her?"


    Clearing her throat, Xu Xiangxiang said, "From what I heard, Young Master Jiang dumped that Sweet Melon because she got disfigured, though she quickly managed to hook up with a local tycoon of S City. Afterward, she stopped streaming and simply lived off of that tycoon. However, I don''t know what happened, but she suddenly popped up in the studio''s WeChat group some time ago saying that the tycoon was abusing her every day. She even begged Young Master Jiang to go save her. But nobody in the group paid her any attention.


    "I also heard that she ran away afterward. Although the tycoon tried to find her for a long time, he failed to find her. I wonder where she went?"


    Hearing up to this point, Xu Chuanchuan and Ange tacitly looked at each other.

 Chapter 98: Pt.1

    Chapter 98: Pt.1


    Xu Xiangxiang spent half an hour bbering on and on about the rumors surrounding Sweet Melon. She had a crisp voice and vivid expressions, so listening to her rambling wasn''t boring at all.


    When Xu Xiangxiang stopped to catch her breath, Xu Chuanchuan sighed ruefully and said, "How pitiful of her."


    Upon hearing her elder sister''s words, Xu Xiangxiang immediately resumed running her mouth, saying, "What''s so pitiful about her? I''ve long since found her irritating. She got her just desserts for stealing my resources earlier on."


    Xu Chuanchuan naturally wasn''t sympathizing with Fragrant Citrus. She simply found it baffling that the woman would fall to such an extent. Then, she looked toward Ange and whispered, "It seems she was telling you the truth before."


    In response, Ange pondered for a moment and said, "So what? We''ve long since broken up. I''m not the one who turned her into that state. I do not need to take responsibility for her."


    "That''s not what I''m trying to say."


    "I don''t know." Wearing an indifferent expression, Ange said, "I just find it sickening."


    "Sick? Big Sis Tang Xin, did you get carsick?" Xu Xiangxiang, who wasn''t aware of the situation, asked.


    Ange immediately smiled and said, "I''m fine; thank you for your concern. By the way, now that I got a closer look, you resemble your elder sister a lot, particrly your nose and eyes."


    Ange was reluctant to talk about Fragrant Citrus''s matter, so she quickly diverted Xu Xiangxiang''s attention to something else.


    Everyone talked andughed on the road, so time quickly passed by. However, halfway through the trip, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly started feeling dizzy.


    Noticing this, Murong Shi wanted to have Xu Chuanchuan switch ces with Xu Xiangxiang. However, Xu Xiangxiang had already fallen asleep in the passenger seat, and Xu Chuanchuan did not wish to disturb her little sister''s rest. So, Xu Chuanchuan offered to switch ces with Murong Shi instead, saying, "You must be tired as well, so let me drive."


    The driver needed to focus their attention on the road, so it was an excellent way to treat motion sickness. Knowing this, Murong Shi did not argue with Xu Chuanchuan.


    After moving from the driver''s seat to the back seat, Murong Shi sat beside Ange. The two of them stared at each other for a moment before indifferently looked away.


    Xu Chuanchuan saw this scene through the rear-view mirror and wanted tough but dared not make it too obvious. So, she grinned and said, "You two can chat with each other."


    In response, Murong Shi gloomily scrutinized Ange from top to bottom before saying, "Miss Tang, did you leave Shanghai just to visit Chuanchuan again this time?"


    Although Murong Shi spoke in a polite tone, Ange kept on getting the feeling that Murong Shi held ill intentions. After remaining silent for a moment, Ange said, "Not exactly."


    "Is there some other reason?" Murong Shi asked, her interest somewhat piqued.


    Then, Ange raised her eyebrows and said, "Do you remember thest time you visited Shanghai, and I told you not to get happy too soon?"


    Revealing an unhappy face, Murong Shi asked, "What are you trying to say?"


    In response, Ange looked toward Xu Chuanchuan and pointedly said, "Visiting Chuanchuan is only my secondary goal. My main goal ining here this time is to deepen my rtionship with Chuanchuan."


    "What rtionship?"


    Narrowing her eyes, Ange said, "You look like a smart person, so why are you acting dumb? Of course, I came here to steal Chuanchuan away."


    Murong Shi''s expression darkened.


    Ange grew delighted when she saw Murong Shi''s reaction. Then, she leaned against the door beside her and said with trepidation, "Tang''er, quickly stop the car!"


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Your girlfriend looks like she wants to hit me!"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan had heard every word of Murong Shi and Ange''s conversation, so she knew that Ange was only joking. So, in a helpless tone, she said, "Can you two please stop making trouble? If you wake up Xiangxiang, she''s going to bber none stop again."


    Losing interest in messing with Murong Shi, Ange sat upright and closed her mouth. She was never one to interact with strangers. If it weren''t for Xu Chuanchuan, she wouldn''t even bother talking to Murong Shi.


    Subsequently, silence enveloped the inside of the car.


    However, having the atmosphere in the car bing too silent wasn''t a good thing, either. Looking at the awkward situation at the back of the car, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder if it was a mistake to invite Ange to Xian City. After much deliberation, she tried initiating a conversation, asking, "Has Fang Qin''s father been discharged from the hospital yet?"


    Murong Shi knew that Xu Chuanchuan was speaking to her, so she responded with an "mhm."


    "Has she reconciled with her family?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    This time, Murong Shi did not immediately give a reply. Instead, she pondered for a moment before saying, "I don''t think so. She is never one topromise. When I visited the hospital that day, I even saw her quarreling with her mother."


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled Fang Qin mentioning the intimidation she received from her parents, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but sigh and said, "Fang Qin is quite pitiful as well to have such stubborn parents."


    Ange kept her mouth shut throughout the entire time Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi talked about Fang Qin. However, while she pretended to look out of the window, her two ears listened closely to their every word. Meanwhile, the more she heard, the more confused she became.


    <em>What intimidation? Why is she quarreling with her family?</em>


    Although Ange wasn''t clear of the details, when she recalled the story about Fang Qin''s ex-girlfriend Xu Chuanchuan told her in the hotel, she could more or less guess what was going on.


    "Ange, what are you thinking about?"


    Upon hearing her name being called, Ange quickly withdrew her gaze and focused her attention. Then, she said, "Nothing. I didn''t get enough sleepst night, so I''m feeling a little tired now."


    Looking at Ange''s dazed expression, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Go to sleep, then. I''ll wake you two when we arrive."


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang''s grandfather was an 80-year-old man already. After holding a discussion, everyone in the family decided to hold a grand birthday banquet for him. They invited many friends and rtives to have a big meal in the most luxurious hotel in the city.


    The meal began at noon, and Xu Chuanchuan''s group arrived at the hotel around 11 o''clock. Many of the guests had already arrived as well, and a bunch of rtives were currently surrounding Xu Chuanchuan''s grandfather and talking to him. Xu Chuanchuan''s group of four had to squeeze through the crowd to reach the old man.


    "Grandpa, you look so handsome today!" Xu Xiangxiang sweetly said.


    Grandpa Xu currently wore a set of bright-colored clothes and had his hairbed meticulously. Hearing his granddaughter''s praise, he smiled and revealed his dentures, saying, "You two are back?"


    Hugging her grandfather affectionately, Xu Xiangxiang said, "Grandpa, I wish you a long and healthy life!"


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t fond of behaving in a spoiled manner. She wasn''t particrly close to her grandfather, either. So, she simply gave her grandfather her blessings and introduced Murong Shi and Ange to him.


    Afterward, Murong Shi and Ange also stepped forward to offer the old man their blessings.


    Apart from verbal blessings, Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang also prepared a red packet for their grandfather.


    Grandpa Xu''s smile extended from ear to ear when offered the red packets. However, he only epted Xu Chuanchuan''s and refused Xu Xiangxiang''s, saying, "You''re still studying, so keep it for yourself."


    Even though Xu Xiangxiang said that she had earned the money by herself, Grandpa Xu still refused to ept the red packet. Knowing that her grandfather was pampering her, Xu Xiangxiang brightly smiled and stuffed the red packet back into her pocket.


    As a guest, Ange also prepared a gift for Grandpa Xu. Knowing that elderly people liked tea, she gave Grandpa Xu a tea set.


    When Ange saw Murong Shi not stepping forward to offer a gift, she was a little surprised. She refused to believe that Murong Shi didn''t prepare a present beforeing here.


    However, Ange''s confusion was quickly cleared up when Xu Xiangxiang said, "Grandpa, is the massage chair useful?"


    In response, Grandpa Xu eagerly nodded and said, "Yes, it''s veryfortable."


    Hearing this, one of Xu Chuanchuan''s rtives said, "Chuanchuan sure is filial. We also saw the massage chair and tried it just now, and I have to say that it is wonderful. It should''ve cost a pretty penny, right?"


    Feeling a little embarrassed, Xu Chuanchuan said, "A little over 20,000."


    "Twenty thousand?!" the rtive eximed. "You must be making a lot each month if you can afford such an expensive gift."


    "I don''t make a lot," Xu Chuanchuan truthfully said. However, she also didn''t tell her rtives that she earned a lot more money from her side job than her main job.


    At this time, Xu Xiangxiang eagerly said, "My Big Sis earns around 5,000 each month."


    "That''s a lot," someone eximed.


    For people living in a small city like Xiang City, a monthly sry of 5,000 yuan was indeed a significant amount. However, this amount was barely anything in a big city. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan simply smiled and did not bother exining.


    Because everyone had heard that Xu Chuanchuan had bought a house for her family, many people kept on praising her for being a filial daughter, causing her to blush. There were even people who joked about borrowing money from her. However, just when Xu Chuanchuan thought about how she should respond to these people, Mother Xu dragged her away.


    Seeing this, Xu Xiangxiang, Murong Shi, and Ange also followed Xu Chuanchuan.


    After leaving the crowd, Mother Xu turned to Murong Shi and greeted, "Little Shi, long time no see."


    "Hello, Auntie," Murong Shi responded.


    "This is?" Mother Xu asked as she looked at Ange.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly introduced them. She even emphasized that Ange had given Grandpa Xu a tea set.


    "Little Xin, you''re too polite," Mother Xu said.


    "It''s something I should do," Ange replied.


    Then, Murong Shi said, "I came empty-handed. Auntie, you won''t mind, right?"


    In response, Mother Xu''s smile widened as she said, "Why would I mind? You always drive Chuanchuan back for free."


    Not wanting her mother to misunderstand, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said, "It''s not like that, Mom. Murong paid for half of that massage chair. The two of us bought it together."


    Mother Xu knew the price of the massage chair, so she couldn''t help but widen her eyes in shock. "Little Shi, why did you prepare such an expensive gift?"


    "It''s okay, Auntie. It''s not expensive to me," Murong Shi said with a reserved smile.


    "Mom, Big Sis Shishi is rich. Ten thousand yuan really isn''t anything to her," Xu Xiangxiang whispered to her mother.


    From the first time Mother Xu met Murong Shi, she already felt that the other party was different from the average peasant. While she might not know much about famous brands, she could tell that Murong Shi''s attire definitely wasn''t cheap. One time, Father Xu had even secretly told her that the car Murong Shi drove was incredibly expensive. As for exactly how expensive it was, she didn''t know.


    Honestly, Mother Xu couldn''t help but be puzzled about how her eldest daughter managed to befriend such a wealthy person. Moreover, this friend appeared to be treating her eldest daughter very well. Last time, the other party had even loaned them over a hundred thousand yuan to renovate their new home.


    For a time, Mother Xu couldn''t think of anything to say. Simultaneously, she also started growing curious about Murong Shi''s identity.


    ...


    The Xu household had booked a total of ten banquet tables for their friends and rtives. People belonging to the older generation sat at a table of their own, while Xu Chuanchuan''s group, Mother Xu, and several other women sat at another table.


    As the waiters began serving the dishes one after another, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly noticed an unfamiliar face sitting next to her grandfather. So, she asked Mother Xu, "Who''s that old granny sitting beside Grandpa?"


    "That''s your grandpa''s new partner," Mother Xu said with a strange look on her face.


    "What?!" Xu Chuanchuan was astonished, and she couldn''t help but take a closer look at the granny. "Is she reliable?"


    "Your father and I were originally against the idea, but your grandpa insisted," Mother Xu said. "But after giving the matter some more thought, we decided to go along with his wishes. Not only is Grandma Zhang ten years younger than your grandpa, but she is also very healthy. She often goes out to pick up stic bottles to sell. Not to mention, it''s been many years since your grandma passed away. It''s not a bad idea to have someone apany your grandpa."


    "When did it begin?"


    "It''s been a while already," Mother Xu said. Then, she looked around before leaning in to Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and saying, "It''s because of this matter that your grandpa refused toe with us when we moved into the new housest week. He says he can''t bear to leave the old house, but we know he''s just trying to stay together with Grandma Zhang, so there''s nothing we can do about it."


    Grandpa Xu was 80 years old this year, and all of his hair had long since turned white. However, because he frequently exercised and had a light diet, he was physically and mentally in good shape. He might be skinny, but he had a sturdy back. Meanwhile, Grandma Zhang might be a little chubby, but she had a kind look on her face. When seated together, the two of them looked like quite the matching pair.


    While looking at the old couple from a distance, Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself, <em>So that''s why Grandpa looks so energetic today.</em>

 Chapter 98: Pt.2

    Chapter 98: Pt.2


    After the birthday banquet, Grandpa Xu and several people belonging to the older generation made their way to the nearby Senior Activity Centre to y chess. Father Xu also followed after the group of seniors, while Mother Xu, Xu Chuanchuan, and the others returned to the Xu family''s new home.


    The new apartment was 120 square meters in size. It had four bedrooms, one kitchen, and two bathrooms. It was significantlyrger than the old house.


    Xu Xiangxiang was overjoyed at getting her own room. After entering the house, she ran to check out her new room without even taking off her shoes.


    "Xiangxiang!" Mother Xu shook her head in frustration when she saw her youngest daughter''s actions. Then, she turned around and said to Xu Chuanchuan and co., "We originally reserved a room for your grandpa, but since he refused to move, we turned it into a storeroom. There''s not enough time to clear out the room, so would you two mind sharing a bed tonight, Little Shi and Little Xin?"


    Murong and Ange sharing the same bed? Xu Chuanchuand dared not imagine what would happen if she allowed this to happen. So, she hurriedly said, "Mom, Murong will sleep with me, while Tang Xin will sleep with Xiangxiang."


    "Alright, then," Mother Xu said, smiling. "Have a seat and watch some TV first. I''ll go make some tea for you all."


    Although they had eaten a big meal for lunch, Mother Xu also made a sumptuous dinner to entertain Murong Shi and Ange.


    After having her fill of food and drinks, Xu Xiangxiang sat down on the sofa with a swollen belly. Then, she sighed and said, "Even Grandpa found himself a partner. Where is my boyfriend?"


    Probably influenced by Xu Xiangxiang''s words, Mother Xu suddenly called Xu Chuanchuan to her room and started asking whether her eldest daughter was dating or not.


    Xu Chuanchuan feared her mother''s nagging the most, so she simply gave her usual excuse of "I still don''t want to date." As a result, Mother Xu grew upset and nagged at her for another period.


    "What did you and your mother talk about for so long?" Murong Shi asked after seeing Xu Chuanchuan returning to the room.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan told Murong Shi about the conversation with a long face.


    Revealing a bitter smile, Murong Shi said, "I guessed as much."


    Xu Chuanchuan hesitated to speak.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Murong, let''s confess to my mother."


    Murong Shi''s expression changed slightly. Then, locking eyes with her lover, she asked, "Have you thought it through?"


    After listening to her mother''s "lecture" for half an hour, Xu Chuanchuan came to an understanding. She no longer wished to make up excuses to deal with her parents'' questioning. Not only was it tiring, but it also made her feel guilty.


    "I have." Xu Chuanchuan nodded. Then, she held Murong Shi''s hands and said, "But I''m still a little scared. So, can you go with me?"


    Murong Shi naturally wouldn''t let Xu Chuanchuan face this problem alone. So, she nodded and kissed Xu Chuanchuan on the forehead.


    Xu Chuanchuan wanted to settle things with her mother first before her father returned home. Although Mother Xu was conservative in her thoughts, she was soft-tempered and easy to talk to. So, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think it would be a big problem to persuade her mother.


    When Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi arrived in the master bedroom, Mother Xu was folding theundry. After hesitating for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Mom, we have something to tell you."


    Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan hade into the room while holding each other''s hands. However, Mother Xu didn''t find the action strange. Instead, she greeted them with a smile and asked, "What is it?"


    After locking the door behind her, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Can you stop what you are doing first?"


    Seeing her daughter''s solemn expression, Mother Xu''s smile disappeared as she asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Fortunately, Murong Shi was with her. Otherwise, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t sure if she could even stand upright right now. Then, after wetting her lips, she said, "Mom, I wasn''t trying to anger you by not dating someone. Rather, it''s because...I already have someone."


    Frowning, Mother Xu said, "This excuse again? Exactly which one of your words is true?"


    Xu Chuanchuan took a moment to look at Murong Shi and gather her courage. Then, she smiled at Mother Xu and said, "Mom, let me introduce you again. This is Murong, my girlfriend."


    Mother Xu nced at the two girls in front of her with a nk face. Then, she said, "I know that."


    "No, you don''t understand." Gritting her teeth, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''m saying that Murong is my partner, the type that I''m going to spend the rest of my life with."


    Mother Xu: "..."


    A strong wind blew outside, and it lifted the curtains and caused them to sweep across Mother Xu''s face. However, Mother Xu did not react to the curtains at all. Instead, she looked as if she had just seen a ghost as she stared at the two people in front of her.


    With the experience ofing out of the closet at the Murong householdst time, Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t in as much of a panic this time. After plucking up her courage, she began telling her mother about how she didn''t like men and that she had been dating Murong Shi for more than half a year now. She even told Mother Xu about their ns for the future.


    However, even after Xu Chuanchuan had spoken to the point of bing thirsty, Mother Xu still didn''t say a word. Though, the expression on her face had be very rich.


    Not giving up, Xu Chuanchuan said, "You might not understand it, but it''s not my choice that I like women more than men. This is destined by nature, and there''s nothing I can do about it."


    "..." Mother Xu remained dumbfounded.


    Seeing Mother Xu''s reaction, Murong Shi followed up, "Auntie, Chuanchuan and I aren''t dating out of impulse. We have a very good rtionship, and even my family has already found out and is supportive of our rtionship. I know this might be sudden to you, but I still hope you and Uncle can ept us."


    However, Mother Xu still wore a stupefied expression as she looked at the two before her. After this shocking revtion, she couldn''t help but have mixed feelings when she looked at their sped hands.


    "Mom, you''ve always loved Xiangxiang and me since we were young. So long as it''s good for me, you won''t object to it, right?" Xu Chuanchuanunched a preemptive strike.


    Hearing this, Mother Xu''s muddy eyes slowly turned to her daughter''s face. Although many thoughts ran through her mind right now, she didn''t know what she should say in this situation. Eventually, though, she opened her mouth and said, "Your dad is very stubborn."


    "I know, so you must help us," Xu Chuanchuan pleaded.


    Mother Xu did not follow up, possibly because she still hadn''t wholly digested this explosive news.


    Father Xu came back veryte. When Xu Chuanchuan heard the front door opening, she promptly hid in her room and dared not leave it. Although she didn''t know whether her mother would tell her father about her rtionship, she still prepared herself for the worst-case scenario.


    <em>Bang, bang, bang</em>


    A few minutester, loud banging sounds came from the door, followed by Father Xu''s shouting, "Xu Chuanchuan,e out right this instant!"


    Xu Chuanchuan shuddered and tightly embraced Murong Shi. "It''s over, it''s over. My dad is definitely against us."


    Murong Shi was simrly nervous, though she didn''t make it as obvious as Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she slowly let go of Xu Chuanchuan and went to open the door.


    Father Xu''s angry face immediately appeared behind the door. After taking a look at Murong Shi, he walked past her and red at Xu Chuanchuan, demanding, "What the hell are you doing?"


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that there was no getting out of this situation. So, she stepped forward and said, "Dad, I don''t care whether you and Mom agree or not, but I''m going to stay with Murong Shi!"


    Pointing at her daughter''s nose, Father Xu said, "I dare you to say that again!"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan puffed up her chest and said, "I don''t like men. I only like her."


    Murong Shi''s pupils shrank slightly when she heard Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Then, she moved her lips and said, "Uncle, we"


    "I''m talking to my daughter; you keep your mouth shut." Father Xu did not give Murong Shi any opportunities for Murong Shi to make any excuses. Immediately, he dragged Xu Chuanchuan to the room next door, locked the door, and began scolding his daughter.


    "Do you have no shame?!"


    "What''s there to be ashamed of for liking women?!"


    "You two are perverted!"


    Shocked by her father''s words, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Dad, even if you can''t understand it, can you not say that about us? How are we perverted?"


    Mother Xu also felt that her husband had gone overboard with his words, so she stepped forward and said, "How can you say this about your daughter?"


    With nowhere to vent his anger, Father Xu red at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "You get out of the house!"


    Panicking, Mother Xu said, "Where do you want her to go thiste at night?!"


    "I don''t care! I don''t have a daughter like her!"


    Xu Chuanchuan had already prepared herself to get scolded and hit, but she never thought that her father would say such words to her, so she couldn''t help but tear up.


    Hearing sobbing soundsing through the door, Murong Shi anxiously struck the door while asking, "Uncle, Auntie, can you open the door first?"


    Themotion had gotten so loud that even Xu Xiangxiang and Ange were alerted, so the two of them promptly ran out of their room.


    Then, Xu Xiangxiang asked, "What''s wrong?"


    At the same time, the master bedroom''s door flung open, and Father Xu pushed Xu Chuanchuan out of the room.


    Murong Shi reacted quickly and caught Xu Chuanchuan. When she saw her lover''s crying face, she couldn''t help but feel her heart aching. Then, she looked at Father Xu and said, "Uncle, if you have any dissatisfaction, vent them on me instead."


    However, Father Xu simply treated Murong Shi like air and ignored her.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan wiped her tears and sobbingly said, "Dad, I''m already an adult. We aren''t here to seek your approval. I don''t care what you think. It will never change the fact that I want to be together with her."

 Chapter 99: Pt.1

    Chapter 99: Pt.1


    Father Xu was furious. Pointing at the door, he repeated, "Get out!"


    However, Mother Xu yelled at Father Xu, saying, "Chuanchuan bought this house! What right do you have to chase her out?!"


    Father Xu choked a little. Then, with reddened eyes, he raised his hand at Xu Chuanchuan.


    Fortunately, Mother Xu caught her husband''s hand in time.


    With the situation going out of control, Xu Chuanchuan dragged Murong Shi out of the house with tears rolling down her eyes.


    As for Xu Xiangxiang, she hurriedly helped her mother hold back her father. When she saw Xu Chuanchuan turning around to leave, she hastily asked, "Sis, where are you going?"


    "Chuanchuan?" Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan with worry in her eyes.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan sniffled and said, "He might...really hit me."


    Murong Shi''s expression changed when she heard this.


    While Murong Shi was in a daze, Xu Chuanchuan opened the door and dragged Murong Shi out of the house while saying, "Let''s find a hotel to hide in first."


    ...


    It was windy and deste outside the apartment, and Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but sneeze when a cold wind blew by.


    Murong Shi had parked her car under a tree with a crooked neck. After unlocking the car, she hurriedly stuffed Xu Chuanchuan into the passenger seat.


    After making sure that she was isted, Xu Chuanchuan began bawling her eyes out.


    This was the first time Murong Shi had seen Xu Chuanchuan crying so sadly, and she felt her heart wincing in pain at this sight. Immediately, she tightly embraced Xu Chuanchuan in her arms and gently kissed her on the cheek.


    Murong Shi knew that no words of constion would be of any use right now, so she gently patted Xu Chuanchuan''s back and said, "Don''t cry."


    Xu Chuanchuan wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck and continued crying. However, when she smelled Murong Shi''s familiar scent, she gradually calmed down and stopped crying.


    "I already guessed something like this would happen, but I never thought that..." Xu Chuanchuan huped. Then, she continued, "He''s never scolded me like this before. Yet, he wanted to hit me just now."


    Seeing her lover''s tearful face, Murong Shi pulled out a piece of tissue paper and gently wiped away Xu Chuanchuan''s tears. Then, she said, "When people are angry, they are more prone to speaking excessively without thinking. The more concerned they are of someone, the heavier their words would be."


    Hearing Murong Shi''s words, Xu Chuanchuan looked up and stared at her lover with a dazed expression.


    After giving Xu Chuanchuan''s swollen eyes a lick and savoring the salty taste, Murong Shi said, "When my dad found out that Jiang Shaohua and I lied to him about our rtionship, he got furious as well and said a bunch of nasty things to me."


    "Did he threaten to hit you?"


    Murong Shi shook her head. Then, she calmly said, "He just hit me without any warning."


    "He hit you?!" Xu Chuanchuan eximed.


    "Mhm. I also ran away just like you," Murong Shi said, chuckling. Then, she gently caressed Xu Chuanchuan''s frizzy hair and continued, "Actually, I should thank him."


    "He hit you, and you still want to thank him?" Xu Chuanchuan was confused.


    Straightening her body, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan with tender eyes and said, "I was in a bad mood at the time, so I ran to thepany to upy my attention with work. Who knew that you would be walking and jumping upstairs? You ended up disturbing my work."


    Xu Chuanchuan opened her mouth slightly, her memories of that time instantly flooding her mind.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s memory of that night was still fresh in her mind. After all, she had lost the first kiss she had saved for 25 years on that night


    Xu Chuanchuan had only moved into the dormitory recently at the time. And because she had been sitting for too long, her back had started hurting. So, she decided to walk and hop about to loosen her muscles. However, she never expected Murong Shi to be working downstairs. She also didn''t expect the other party had even called her to give her a warning.


    Afterward, Murong Shi hade upstairs to ask for some food. Xu Chuanchuan had found the situation strange at the time since she could clearly see that Murong Shi wasn''t in her normal state. However, she didn''t think that it was because Sun An had just hit Murong Shi.


    Then, they started drinking, and the rest was history


    Xu Chuanchuan blushed a little when she recalled what had happened that night. Then, rubbing her face, she said, "You were very shameless that night."


    "How would I have caught you if I wasn''t shameless?" Murong Shi said as she hooked up Xu Chuanchuan''s chin with a finger. Then, she continued, "Come, give me a smile."


    "I can''t bring myself to smile," Xu Chuanchuan said with a bitter face. Then, she looked in the direction of her house.


    Murong Shi knew what her lover was worried about, so she let out a soft sigh and said, "Judging by your mother''s reaction, I think it''s safe to say that she''s on our side. As for your father, he''s currently blinded by anger, so he probably won''t be listening to anyone''s words. It''d be better if we let him cool his head first."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi''s words sounded reasonable. Then, she frowned and asked, "Do you think I was too hasty?"


    "Then, do you regret it?" Murong Shi responded with a question.


    Xu Chuanchuan shook her head without even taking the time to process the question. Then, she said, "I know today is a bad time since it''s Grandpa''s birthday, but it''s not often you visit my family''s home. We also have to confess sooner orter, so we might as well do it sooner. For now, I n to let them slowly digest this matter and bring you over again during the New Year. Hopefully, everything will be fine at that time."


    Murong Shi was a little surprised to hear Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Smiling, she said, "It seems you''ve thought things through better than I did."


    At this time, the ringing of a phone interrupted their conversation. Looking at her ringing phone, Xu Chuanchuan found that her mother was calling her, so she quickly answered the call.


    Then, Mother Xu''s anxious voice came through the phone, asking, "Where do you two n to go thiste at night?"


    After ncing at Murong Shi, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Mom, Murong and I will stay in a hotel tonight.''


    "Why stay in a hotel when you have a house?! Come back quickly!"


    "Is Dad not mad anymore?" Xu Chuanchuan hesitantly asked.


    Mother Xu paused for a moment before saying, "Just ignore him. What can he do to you with me around?"


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalled her father''s furious look before, she couldn''t help but feel scared. So, she said, "Nevermind. He''ll probably explode again if he sees me. We''ll hide from him for the time being."


    Then, Mother Xu said in a frustrated tone, "You know your father has always been stubborn. He''s even a little drunk tonight, so don''t take his words to heart."


    Unfortunately, Xu Chuanchuan had already taken her father''s words to heart, and she was incredibly saddened to hear them. Even so, she wouldn''t go argue with her father. Then, she said in a somber tone, "I know, Mom."


    During the call, Murong Shi had already started the car. Then, with Xu Chuanchuan pointing the way, the two moved into Xian City''s most luxurious hotel.

 Chapter 99: Pt.2

    Chapter 99: Pt.2


    As they had left the house in a hurry, they didn''t have time to pack their belongings. They had also been wearing the same clothes the entire day, so Murong Shi urged Xu Chuanchuan to take a shower first.


    When Xu Chuanchuan took off her coat, she suddenly thought of something as she eximed, "Crap! I forgot about Ange!"


    Immediately, Xu Chuanchuan grabbed her phone and messaged Ange, saying: "Sorry for the terrible reception, Ange! Please have Xiangxiang apany you for tonight!"


    Ange: "You heartless person. Only now do you remember that I''m a guest?"


    Xu Chuanchuan continued apologizing one time after another.


    Ange: "Whatever. I''ll let it slide this time. It''s a cold night tonight. Where did you and that person run off to?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "A hotel. I''m really sorry. Did you get scared?"


    Ange: "I''m still fine. Xiangxiang got a little excited, though."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What happened to her?"


    Ange: "She went to argue with your father. Her voice was even louder than your father''s."


    Afterward, Ange sent a long voice recording to Xu Chuanchuan. When Xu Chuanchuan downloaded the file and yed it, she immediately heard the loud voices of Father Xu and Xu Xiangxiang.


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Dad, you''ve gone too far! Many countries have already legalized same-sex marriage! What ancient era do you think you''re living in?! How is Sis perverted?!"


    Father Xu: "Many countries might have legalized it, but has our country legalized it? If thew doesn''t recognize it, they shouldn''t even think of getting married in this lifetime!"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "So what if they don''t get married?! Many people get divorced even after getting married!"


    Father Xu: "You''re still going against me? Are you itching for a beating?"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "I dare you to hit me! If you hit me, I''m going straight to Grandpa tomorrow to tell on you!"


    Father Xu: "...Don''t talk about this nonsense with me. I won''t agree to their rtionship no matter what! If she wants to stay with that woman, then she shouldn''t think of being my daughter!"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "What''s so bad about Big Sis Shishi? Her family runs a bigpany, and every one of their cars costs over a million yuan! I dare say that no man in Xian City is better than Big Sis Shishi!"


    Father Xu: "Who cares about her money?! Do you think she''s great just because she has money?!"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Of course it''s great to have money! If it wasn''t for Big Sis Shishi, we couldn''t even afford the renovations for this house! If I can get a girlfriend like Big Sis Shishi as well, who cares if she''s a woman? I''ll beughing in my sleep!"


    Father Xu: "Are you trying to anger me to death?!"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "I''m not trying to anger you; I''m just trying to talk some sense into you. Dad, society has changed. Your thinking needs to change as well. There are so many scummy men out there nowadays. Do you think Sis will live a good life just because she finds herself a man? What if that man turns out to be a womanizer or wife beater? Compared to them, Big Sis Shishi is a much better person! She is capable and good-tempered. She''s also kind to Sis. The two of them have such a good rtionship, so why must you separate them? Do you not want Sis to be happy?"


    Father Xu fell silent.


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Sis is barely earning anything each month. She skimps on food and doesn''t buy herself any beauty products. You can even count the number of new clothes she buys for herself with one hand! She has also worked very hard and shouldered a huge debt to buy a house for our family! How much has she contributed to our family already? Now that she has found a person she likes, can''t you give her even a word of blessing?"


    The voice recording ended at this part, but Xu Chuanchuan continued holding her phone in a daze. Simultaneously, her eyes reddened, and a drop of tear fell on her phone''s screen.


    Murong Shi was momentarily stunned when she came out from the bathroom and saw her lover''s tearful state. Then, she asked, "What''s wrong? Why are you crying again?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan reyed the voice recording for Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi fell silent for a while after hearing the voice recording. Then, she let out a rueful sigh and said, "It seems Xiangxiang is siding with you."


    "She''s been bickering with me since we were young, and she frequently annoys me. I used to despise her because of how willful and wasteful she was, but I never thought she would"


    After wiping the tears on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi said, "She''s bound to grow up one day. Now that she has grown up, isn''t that a good thing? Alright, stop crying. Why are you so emotional today?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had previously cried because of sadness, but this time she cried because she was touched. While doing her best to stop crying, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ll go take a shower."


    "Mhm."


    The next day, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had secretly snuck home after Mother Xu called to tell them that Father Xu had left for work.


    Mother Xu looked quite dispirited when they arrived, probably because she didn''t get much sleepst night. Seeing this, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel guilty.


    After looking at her daughter for a while, Mother Xu said, "Your father is still being stubborn. I think you two should go back for now."


    Xu Chuanchuan had returned with this intention in mind, so she and Murong Shi immediately began packing their luggage.


    Then, Mother Xu said in a heavy tone, "Truth be told, I have a difficult time epting this as well. But since you''re already an adult, I don''t think I have the right to meddle in your rtionship. I just hope that you two can be happy together."


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately gave her mother a hug, her nose reddening as she had the urge to cry again.


    Murong Shi also embraced Mother Xu, saying, "Auntie, I promise I''ll treat Chuanchuan well."


    Mother Xu revealed an awkward smile when she heard Murong Shi''s promise. Afterward, she personally saw them off downstairs.


    Before leaving, Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang also paid Grandpa Xu a visit.


    When Xu Chuanchuan recalledst night''s matter, she couldn''t help but apologize to Ange once more. Then, holding her friend''s hands, she said, "I wouldn''t have invited you to join us if I knew something like that would happen. I even ended up leaving you behind after letting you watch all that. I''m really sorry."


    In response, Ange shrugged and said, "I''ll just take it as reference. Hopefully, it''lle in handy when it''s my turn toe out of the closet."


    When Xu Chuanchuan thought about Ange and Fang Qin, she hesitated for a moment before asking, "Will your parents be tough to deal with?"


    "They''ve long since known that I like women," Ange said, chuckling.


    Surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Don''t tell me you already came out of the closet when you were dating Fragrant Citrus?"


    "Her?" Revealing a look of disdain, Ange said, "I only dated her for half a year, and most of our interactions were done online. Our rtionship wasn''t so good that I would bring her to meet my parents."


    "Then, how did they find out?"


    Ange remained silent for a moment. Then, she leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "When I was in high school, myputer stored a lot of 18+ yuri films. I forgot to turn off myputer one day, and my mom ended up seeing them. When she questioned me about them, I had no choice but to confess."


    Gaping in shock, Xu Chuanchuan eximed, "You were already watching those nonsensical things when you were in high school?! Have you even be an adult at that time?"


    "Nope," Ange said as if it were a matter of course.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    After returning from their trip, Murong Shi brought Xu Chuanchuan back to the Murong household.


    When Murong Mingshu heard about theiring out of the closet in the Xu household and that Father Xu was opposed to their rtionship, she sympathetically said, "At the end of the day, everything parents do is for the good of their children. If your parents aren''t unreasonably stubborn people, they will eventuallye to ept your rtionship. Take things slowly and give them some time."


    Even though theiring out of the closet was a colossal failure, they still needed to live their lives. Xu Chuanchuan also made sure to call Mother Xu after work every day to ask about Father Xu''s attitude.


    Mother Xu said, "You know as well as I do about your father''s personality. He''s still angry even now, and he keeps on cursing as soon as hees home."


    Xu Chuanchuan knew what her father was cursing about even without asking, so she couldn''t help but fall silent.


    Then, Mother Xu added, "I even had a fight with himst night, and he ran out of the house out of anger, saying that he refuses to stay in the house you bought. He ended up returning to our old house, but your grandpa found him to be a nuisance and chased him out. With nowhere to go and no money in his pockets, he still had toe back in the end."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know whether tough or cry about this situation.


    Because of her trip back home, Xu Chuanchuan had missed two days'' worth of updates for her novel. Feeling somewhat guilty, she decided to look at her reader group before starting on her daily writing. However, she couldn''t help but be shocked when she opened her QQ messenger.


    Many people in her reader group had tagged her in their messages. Xu Chuanchuan initially thought that these people were urging her to update her novel, but the messages she saw were as followed:


    Did anyone read the number one novel promoted in the neer''s section? Why does it feel so simr to Lord''s current book?


    Are you talking about <em>My Tycoon Girlfriend</em>? I''ve read it as well! What do you mean ''simr''? It''s a carbon copy! The scenarios in the novel are just copies of Lord''s book. The only things that are different are the character names and identities! It''s so infuriating! When I asked that author if she had read Lord''s work before, she refused to admit it!


    Someone finally brought this up. I''ve read that book as well. It has 25 chapters, and it''s even mized already. I wrote in thement section saying that she copied Lord, but that author called me a dog. She even got a moderator to delete myment afterward.


    There''s actually such a shameless person? I''ll give it a look.


    Such a person deserves to have their points reduced!


    The book has over 3,000 bookmarks already. Quite a lot of people are reading it.


    Lord, hurry up ande out! You''re being giarized! @I Love Mtang


    These messages were dated two days ago, which was also the day she visited her hometown.


    <em>Someone Is giarizing my work???</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned.


    However, she decided not to jump to conclusions first before looking into the situation. Setting aside her work, she logged into her reading app and searched for the copycat novel in question. Then, when she finished reading the first chapter, she couldn''t help but be shocked.


    <em>Isn''t this my novel? The characters only have their names and identities changed.</em>


    The author of <em>My Tycoon Girlfriend </em>was a neer on the tform, and she only had this one book under their name. This copycat author didn''t copy After Being Bent by Reader word for word. Instead, she had taken Xu Chuanchuan''s original plot, reorganized it, and rewrote it using her youthful writing style.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s book was about the rtionship between an author and her reader, while this copycat author wrote about a famous artist and her passionate fan.


    Because there were many simrities in the content, the more Xu Chuanchuan read, the angrier she became.


    Having one or two coincidences was one thing, but any discerning person could tell that this author was giarizing Xu Chuanchuan''s work with so many simr plot points.


    Half an hourter, Xu Chuanchuan read up to the novel''s seventh chapter and found well over two dozen giarized scenarios.


    When Murong Shi came out of the shower, she saw Xu Chuanchuan sitting in front of theputer while staring into her phone. Seeing that the document disyed on theputer was still nk, she casually asked, "Did you get writer''s block again?"


    "A new author is giarizing my work," Xu Chuanchuan said as she handed her phone to Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi read much more quickly than Xu Chuanchuan. In just an hour, she had already finished reading all 80,000 words of the novel. Frowning, she said, "This is indeed giarism. Why aren''t the tform editors doing anything about this?"


    "The editors have to manage many authors. There''s no way they have time to read every author''s work," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, mming her fist on the table, she angrily said, "I''m going to report her!"

 Chapter 100: Pt.1

    Chapter 100: Pt.1


    Reporting a book for giarism required evidence. Simply put, one needed to list the simrities between the original work and the giarized work and submit the list to the tform for verification.


    After encountering such a big problem, Xu Chuanchuan lost all mood to write. So, she announced that she would be halting updates for today in her book''sment section and her reader group. Fortunately, her readers were very understanding when they heard that she was preparing to report the copycat.


    Lord, just focus on getting this problem settled first. Everyone can tell that this author is copying you.


    That''s right, that''s right. We can''t let such an immoral author run freely.


    Lord, I support you. I''ll use all of my Moonstones to reduce that author''s points to oblivion!


    If it were in the past, Xu Chuanchuan would never have condoned her readers to reduce the points of other authors. However, the copycat author had truly angered her this time, so rather than stop her readers, she thanked them instead. Then, after closing off QQ messenger, she promptly began preparing the usation materials.


    Xu Chuanchuan had never reported another author for giarism before, so she didn''t know how she should go about listing the evidence. Fortunately, Ange was experienced in this aspect, so after asking Ange for some details, Xu Chuanchuan was led to a rted forum post. By the time she and Murong Shi researched the post,piled the evidence, and submitted the report, it was alreadyte in the night.


    As for what would result from the report, only time could tell.


    Before going to bed, Xu Chuanchuanined to Ange: "I''ve been so unlucky this year. First, I got ndered multiple times. Now, I''m being giarised."


    Ange: "If you look at it from another perspective, the fact that you''re being giarised also shows that you''re popr."


    Me? Popr?


    Xu Chuanchuan switched to the jjwxc application to check her author''s profile.


    Before writing <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em>, Xu Chuanchuan only had a little over 2,000 followers. Then, after writing the book, having it rmended on the front page, and getting ndered by Fragrant Citrus''s sub-ount, her author ount now had over 5,000 followers. Aside from this, there was also the number of bookmarks her book received. For her past novels, she received an average of 10,000 bookmarks. In the case of <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em>, it received over 50,000 bookmarks.


    If Xu Chuanchuan only looked at these statistics, <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em> was indeed a popr book. Moreover, more and more people were paying attention to it with each passing day. However, this poprity inevitably attracted jealous people who wished to trample over her sess, such as Fragrant Citrus. Though, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t say for certain if she was being giarised solely because of her poprity.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan checked out the copycat work''s homepage, and what she saw there dumbfounded her.


    The homepage''sment section was practically flooded with point reduction notifications and negativements. Many of these point reductions were given by reader IDs that Xu Chuanchuan was familiar with.


    Copycat! Ptui!


    You only changed the names and identities of the lead characters. You didn''t even bother changing any of their personalities, scenarios, and plotline, yet you have the gall to say you''re not giarizing?


    Not only are you copying another person''s work, but you''re even doing such a terrible job of it. Your writing is horrible, and there are so many typos. You''re even abusing punctuation. Have you even graduated from grade school?


    Do new authors nowadays know no fear? My Lord''s work is still on the poprity ranking list, yet you already have the gall to copy it? Imend you for your courage! Here, have some point reductions! No need to thank me!


    Xu Chuanchuan''s followers amounted to less than one-tenth of Ange''s followers. She couldn''t summon an army on demand. So, when she saw so many readers and passersby voicing their support for her, she couldn''t help but be touched.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t sleep well that night. Partway through the night, she woke up once and secretly checked her report status on jjwxc''s website. However, the report status showed that it was still pending.


    The intense lighting from Xu Chuanchuan''s phone woke up Murong Shi. Knowing that her lover was worried over the giarism matter, she snatched the phone away and said, "Other people also need to sleep at night. It''s pointless to stare at your phone, so go to sleep."


    The report result came out in the afternoon the next day. However, to Xu Chuanchuan''s bewilderment, the publisher had deemed the detailed evidence she provided to be insufficient for the usation to take hold.


    When her reader group''s members found out about the result, they voiced outints on her behalf.


    Are the moderators blind?


    Why is the tform siding with a copycat?


    That''s right! Anyone can tell it''s giarised!


    That author is so shameless! She updated another chapterst night, and she is still copying Lord''s scenarios! Argh!!! I already used up all of my Moonstones. Who here still has some? Hurry up and go reduce that copycat''s points!


    Xu Chuanchuan was surprised by this oue, so she quickly talked to Ange about this situation.


    Ange: "I expected as much."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "But that person''s plot and scenarios are all simr to mine. You don''t even need a discerning eye to know she''s copying my work. I don''t understand this. Why is the tform not deeming it to be a giarised work?"


    As a widely famous author who had many excellent works under her name, Ange frequently encountered people copying her work. So, she had plenty of experience dealing with giarism.


    Ange: "It is incredibly difficult to protect the rights of literary works. There are also many ways to define the definition of giarism. The person copying you is smart. She only copied your general plot and scenarios; she did not copy and paste your text as well. She also added a lot of original content, so the tform doesn''t dare to judge her work as a copy. Seeing how this person dares to test the boundaries of giarism, I don''t think this is her first time writing a novel."


    After hearing Ange''s analysis, Xu Chuanchuan inadvertently thought of someone. "Could it be Fragrant Citrus again?"


    Ange: "I already checked that author''s IP. It''spletely different from Fragrant Citrus''s IP. If it''s one of Fragrant Citrus''s sub-ounts, it should''ve been created long ago, so there''s no way the book would get rmended on the neer''s section. So, I can''t say for certain."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan''s current concern wasn''t whether the other party was Fragrant Citrus or not. Instead, it was that the tform had denied her giarism usation.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan contacted her editor and asked for help. However, the editor simply repeated what Ange told her, saying that the ovepping content did not meet the criteria for the tform to consider it as giarism.


    Faced with this situation, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know what she should do.


    Hearing about Xu Chuanchuan''s problem, Ange used her own experiences to guide her and told her to make a Weibo post.


    Thus, Xu Chuanchuan spent some time writing a long Weibo post to call out the copycat giarising her work. And as soon as she published the post, Ange immediately helped her by sharing it.


    Some time ago, the drama version of Ange''s novel The End of The World began broadcasting on television. As a result, the follower count on Ange''s Weibo ount had skyrocketed past 500,000. Shortly after Ange shared Xu Chuanchuan''s post, the post started trending on Weibo, and manyizens stood out to show Xu Chuanchuan support.


    As the copycat author did not have a Weibo ount, her giarized work''sment section had be a disaster zone filled with curses and point reduction notifications. However, the copycat author remained calm and continued updating every day. To make matters worse, the number of bookmarks her work received was continuously increasing.


    In the end, left with no better choice, Xu Chuanchuan decided to stop updating her book.


    <em>After Being Bent by Reader </em>was only halfpleted. Xu Chuanchuan wanted to see what that copycat would do once there was nothing left to copy.


    In the past, Xu Chuanchuan had thought that not having to write anything was an asion to celebrate. However, now that she was forced to stop writing because someone was giarising her work, she couldn''t help but feel suffocated.


    Unfortunately, no matter how angry Xu Chuanchuan felt about the situation, she could do nothing about it. Even though innumerable people were showing her support through her novel''sment section, reader group, and Weibo, the copycat author was simply too cunning for the tform to judge her work as a copy.


    However, while the tform failed to give Xu Chuanchuan a satisfactory answer, Ange''s promotion had ended up increasing <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em>''s poprity.


    Ange: "Now that your novel is so popr, you can use this opportunity to make a quick buck."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "No, I refuse to update."


    Ange: "Are you dumb? Why are you refusing easy money?"


    It was indeed dumb to refuse money when offered. Seeing Ange''s message, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly remembered a joke Murong Shi told her before.


    Because of her past circumstances, Xu Chuanchuan had already made it a habit to be frugal and save money as if her life depended on it. At one time, she picked up a one-yuan coin while out shopping with Murong Shi. After picking up the coin, she happily said, "If I can pick up a yuan every day for a year, that''ll be enough to cover a month''s utility bills."


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuan''s miserly expression, Murong Shi joked, "You might as well change your pen name to I Love Money."


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her heart softening when she thought of Murong Shi. This situation also strengthened her thoughts.


    <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em> was a story about her rtionship with Murong Shi. Initially, Xu Chuanchuan had only written the book to record the things that happened between them. While money was indeed important, she did not wish to let a copycat taint her fond memories.


    With her mind made up, Xu Chuanchuan immediately announced that she would halt releases. As to when she would resume releases, that would depend on when the giarism ended.


    As soon as the announcement appeared, Xu Chuanchuan''s readers wailed in agony.


    Lord, why must you do this to me? I like this book very much! Uuuu, my heart hurts!


    I''ll support you no matter what, Lord! Keep on fighting!


    That copycat deserves death. If it wasn''t for her, Lord wouldn''t have had to stop releases.


    What a pity. Lord, I''ll be waiting for you. I''ll work hard to reduce that copycat''s points in the days without you and Darling Shi apanying me.


    Ever since the tform refused to acknowledge her giarism usation, Xu Chuanchuan had hoped that the copycat would stop her actions after getting bombarded with curses and point reductions. However, the copycat showed no signs of regret at all, her actions making it seem like she was deliberately out to oppose Xu Chuanchuan.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but suspect the other party to be Fragrant Citrus. However, shecked concrete evidence to prove it.

 Chapter 100: Pt.2

    Chapter 100: Pt.2


    Afterzing around for a few days, Xu Chuanchuan''s fingers started growing restless, and irritation filled her heart.


    Noticing this, Murong Shi dragged Xu Chuanchuan out to go shopping. After all, shopping was a great way to release stress.


    Murong Shi drove the car to the most prosperousmercial center in the city and pulled Xu Chuanchuan into a shopping mall there. Knowing that her lover was in a bad mood, she handed Xu Chuanchuan a debit card and said, "Buy whatever you want with this."


    However, after thinking over the matter, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I don''t really have anything I want to buy."


    "Jewelry, perfume, cosmetics, skincare products, clothes, shoes, bags..." Murong Shi listed a few suggestions.


    "These are all things that you like; I don''t like any of them."


    "What do you like, then?"


    "I like you."


    Murong Shi couldn''t help but smile. Then, she pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s chin and gently brushed her thumb across Xu Chuanchuan''s lips, saying, "Quite the sweet mouth you have there."


    After saying so, Murong Shi boldly leaned forward and kissed Xu Chuanchuan, ignoring the fact that they were in a public ce.


    After a brief contact, Murong Shi felt satisfied and let go of Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan was frightened by Murong Shi''s actions, her brown eyes darting around. Then, she said in a hushed voice, "There are people around us!"


    "We''re not celebrities, so what''s there to be afraid of?" Murong Shi said as she hooked an arm around Xu Chuanchuan''s shoulders and ced the debit card into Xu Chuanchuan''s hand.


    "I don''t need your card. I have my own money," Xu Chuanchuan said as she pushed the card back to Murong Shi.


    Turning to look at her lover, Murong Shi asked, "Didn''t you spend all of your money buying that massage chair? Where did you get more?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan took out her debit card from her purse and triumphantly said, "There are 30,000 yuan in here. I withdrew my royalties a few days ago."


    <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em> had received over 60,000 yuan in donations during its serialization. However, as the book was still ongoing, Xu Chuanchuan could only withdraw half the money earned.


    Murong Shi was a little surprised by this situation. Then, she smiled and said, "I still think you should use mine instead. My card has much more money than yours."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan still shook her head.


    Murong Shi paused for a moment before saying, "Are you that reluctant to use my money? I''m only trying to make you happy."


    "I know. That''s why I''m feeling very happy right now," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling brightly.


    Murong Shi found Xu Chuanchuan''s smile looking a little silly. After tugging at her lover''s cheeks, she whispered, "Silly Wife, stop being so calctive with me. My money is your money."


    Xu Chuanchuan giggled and said, "In that case, it''s alright for you to spend my money as well."


    "Hm?"


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan stuffed her debit card into Murong Shi''s hand and patted her chest, saying, "Take it! I''ll be raising you from now on!"


    Murong Shi was momentarily stunned. She also couldn''t help but be a little moved when she looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s serious expression. Then, after hesitating for a few seconds, Murong Shi suddenly smiled and said, "It''s going to cost you a lot to raise me."


    "Don''t worry! You can have all of my monthly royalties!" Xu Chuanchuan confidently stated.


    Murong Shi found Xu Chuanchuan''s attempt to act cool to be endearing. Unable to help herself, she kissed her lover again and said, "My wife, you''re the best!"


    To Murong Shi, 30,000 yuan could hardly be considered pocket money. It wasn''t even enough for her to buy a handbag. So, what she ended up doing with Xu Chuanchuan''s card was buy a bunch of snacks.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel a little embarrassed when she saw that the bill totaled only a few hundred yuan. After they arrived at a sparsely popted area, Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi''s beautiful face and said, "Sorry to have made you go through all this."


    "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    "I had you spend money, yet you ended up buying only things that I like," Xu Chuanchuan said. Then, blinking her eyes innocently, she asked, "Why does it feel like you''re raising a daughter?"


    Murong Shi chuckled upon hearing this. Then, she said, "What daughter? Don''t you mean sister?"


    "..." <em>There she goes again.</em>


    The two each held one side of the grocery bag. While making their way to the car, Murong Shi suddenly leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and ambiguously said, "Big Sister is thinking of eating Little Sister now. Let''s head back earlier."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s sensitive ear instantly turned bright red. Then, she looked up at the bright sky and asked, "Now???"


    "Now," Murong Shi repeated. Then, looking deeply into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes, she continued, "You''ve ignored me for several days now. I can''t wait any longer."


    Xu Chuanchuan lowered her head out of embarrassment. Because of the giarism problem, she hadn''t eaten or slept well these past few days. Naturally, she hadn''t been in the mood for intimacy, either.


    "I''m sorry."


    "Let''s go."


    Murong Shi drove her car as if she were piloting a ne. When Xu Chuanchuan realized how eager Murong Shi was to do those things to her, her face heated up as she said, "Drive slower."


    Unfortunately, Murong Shi''s body contained too much passion for her to slow down right now. Although she knew Xu Chuanchuan had been joking, when she heard Xu Chuanchuan saying "I''ll be raising you," she wanted nothing more than to drag her lover to a bed right away.


    There was a red light ahead. Murong Shi retained some sanity in her mind still, so she didn''t break thew. When the car stopped, Murong Shi thought to kiss Xu Chuanchuan. Unfortunately, as the adjacent car stopped very close to theirs, she resisted her urges and simply stared at her lover''s face.


    Xu Chuanchuan looked no different than usual today. Yet, for some reason, Murong Shi found that the more she looked at Xu Chuanchuan''s face, the more pleasing she found it to be.


    Meanwhile, when subjected to Murong Shi''s scorching gaze, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly had the misconception that she had already been stripped naked. Then, noticing the changing lights ahead, she quickly said, "It''s green now!"


    Hearing this reminder, Murong Shi obediently retracted her gaze and resumed driving.


    Afraid that she would get carsick, Xu Chuanchuan did not dare to fiddle with her phone. Instead, she made some light conversation with Murong Shi while keeping an eye on the traffic ahead.


    Then, suddenly, the car zoomed past two familiar figures, and Xu Chuanchuan excitedly said, "I think I saw Ange and Fang Qin!"


    Unfortunately, the car was moving too quickly. By the time Xu Chuanchuan turned around, those two figures had already be indiscernible.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi grinned and said, "It''s nothing strange. Their ambiguous rtionship has been going on for many days already."


    "I wonder if they''re on a date?" Her interest piqued, Xu Chuanchuan pulled out a phone and said, "I''ll give Ange a call."


    The call quickly connected, and Xu Chuanchuan tentatively asked, "Are you awake?"


    "I woke up ages ago," Ange said.


    "Are you still at the hotel? Do you want me to pack some food for you?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    "Uh, I''m outside," Ange said after some hesitation.


    Outside? Xu Chuanchuan grew ted upon hearing Ange''s answer. Then, she said, "I think I saw you just now. Are you together with Fang Qin?"


    Ange fell silent for a moment before answering, "Mhm."


    "I see! Then, I''ll stop disturbing your date now. Bye-bye!"


    "..." Ange didn''t even have time to exin herself before Xu Chuanchuan disconnected the call. Then, she awkwardly stored her phone away.


    Seeing the troubled look on Ange''s face, Fang Qin asked, "Do you have business?"


    "I"


    Fang Qin didn''t wish to make things difficult for Ange. So, she said in a slightly regretful tone, "If you''re busy, we can go out on another day."


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t exactly mistaken when she said that Ange was on a date with Fang Qin.


    After finding out that Ange had returned from Xian City, Fang Qin had taken the initiative to call her and invite her out several times. However, Ange had constantly refused Fang Qin''s invitations using various reasons.


    Even so, Fang Qin did not give up. Instead, she visited Ange at the hotel today and frankly asked, "Miss Author, are you really so busy?"


    Ange knew that some things could not be avoided, so she let Fang Qin into her room.


    After not meeting for several days, the two of them had grown distant once more. Ange was afraid that Fang Qin would bring up her confession again, so she excused herself and took a bath.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin patiently waited outside. She did not grow annoyed even after waiting for half an hour. And when she saw Ange leaving the bathroom, she even greeted the other party with a bright smile.


    "You haven''t eaten yet, right? How about we get some food outside?"


    Ange didn''t know if it was because of the hot bath messing with her head or something else, but she ended up nodding to the invitation.


    After the meal, Fang Qin invited Ange to watch a movie, asking, "Do you watch movies normally?"


    Ange''s daily life consisted of writing novels, reading books, sleeping, and gaming. As for watching movies The movies she watched were mainly 18+ yuri films originating from a certain ind country.


    <em>If she finds out that I normally use these things to pass time, she''ll probably look down on me, right? She might even run away out of fright.</em>


    Naturally, Ange did not tell the truth. Instead, she said in a disinterested tone, "Rarely."


    "Do you want to watch one?" Fang Qin patiently asked, taking the boiling frog approach. "The cinema is just ahead. We''ll reach it in a few minutes."


    Ange did not refuse the invitation.


    The movie they chose was an American science fiction blockbuster. Both the fighting scenes and music were exciting. However, Ange remained absent-minded throughout the show.


    They didn''t buy any snacks when entering the cinema, so both of them were empty-handed. When the lights went out, Ange noticed that her right hand ced on her thigh was very close to touching Fang Qin''s thigh. When she thought to move away, someone suddenly caught her right hand, causing her heart to skip a beat.


    Although Fang Qin stared intently at the big screen in front, her left hand gradually tightened and enveloped its prey.


    Ange''s breathing stagnated, and she subconsciously tried to retract her hand.


    However, Fang Qin turned to look at Ange and warmly smiled before whispering, "It''s a little cold here, so let me give you some warmth."


    "..." Ange gave up struggling.


    When the 90-minute movie ended, Ange couldn''t even remember what she just watched. Then, the two of them left the cinema along with the crowd.


    Chilling winds blew outside the cinema. Yet, Ange did not feel cold at all when struck by these winds because at this moment, Fang Qin was tightly holding onto one of her hands. She felt as if a bundle of mes was burning where their hands connected, and the heat from these mes spread across her bones and reached her heart.


    Ange wanted to say "You can let go now," but eventually chose to swallow her words.


    She couldn''t bear to part with thisfortable warmth.


    After the two silently walked hand in hand for a while, Fang Qin suddenly stopped and said, "My ce is nearby. Do you want to go check it out?"


    "..." Ange''s expression subtly changed. Then, she asked, "You brought me here on purpose, didn''t you?"


    First, they had lunch together. Then, they watched a movie together. Now, they were going to visit Fang Qin''s house.


    In response, Fang Qin smiled and frankly said, "That''s right."


    <em>...I''ll pretend I didn''t hear that.</em>


    "It''s raining!" someone suddenly shouted.


    Then, a drop of rainwater fell on the tip of Ange''s nose. However, before Ange could react, she felt her right hand being squeezed and heard Fang Qin saying, "Let''s run!"


    The rain gradually increased in intensity and eventually transformed into a heavy downpour. By the time they reached the car, they were already drenched.


    Ange wiped away the water on her face while panting in exhaustion. Then, turning to Fang Qin, who looked equally as miserable, sheined, "Why does it always rain when I meet you?"


    In response, Fang Qin chuckled and said, "Tang Xin, this is heaven''s will."


    "..."


    Now that both of them were drenched, Fang Qin decided to drive the car back to her rented apartment.


    "I''ll go prepare the bath for you."


    Pulling on Fang Qin''s sleeve, Ange awkwardly said, "Who said I wanted to take a bath?"


    Looking at Ange''s wet hair and clothing, Fang Qin softly said, "You''ll catch a cold if you don''t warm up."


    "Even so, I''m not going to bathe at your ce."


    "What are you afraid of?" Fang Qin asked with an ambiguous smile.


    "..."


    "Afraid I''ll peek?"


    Looking away, Ange cleared her throat and said, "Just borrow me a hairdryer. I''ll dry my hair first"


    "Tang Xin."


    "Hm?"


    "Stop worrying. I know you like me too."


    After saying so, Fang Qin pushed Ange against the wall without giving the other party a chance to refute. Then, she kissed Ange with her cold lips moistened by rainwater.

 Chapter 101: Pt.1

    Chapter 101: Pt.1


    This was their second kiss, and it felt different from the previous one. Their first kiss was rough and rushed. This time, though, Fang Qin was much gentler with her actions.


    The kiss was so tender that Ange could end it all with just a light push. However, Ange hesitated to do so.


    The instant Fang Qin held her lips, Ange felt her heart rising up her throat. Her eyes were also filled with shock as she stared at the woman in front of her.


    Ange could feel Fang Qin''s thin palm carefully stroking the side of her face. She also felt the tip of the woman''s tongue teasing her lips, the woman''s every touch sending jolts of electricity that numbed her body.


    This was a tasteless kiss. Even though Ange didn''t initiate this kiss, she didn''t feel vited at all. Rather, she thought that it was...wonderful.


    Meanwhile, Fang Qin narrowed her eyes and carefully observed Ange''s reactions.


    <em>Rumble</em>


    Suddenly, a booming thunder roared outside, and Ange''s body shook slightly at the unexpected noise. The movement shook the drops of water stuck on her eyshes, causing them to fall into her eyes and muddy her vision. And with her vision obscured and consciousness partially returned, Ange started panicking.


    Even after hiding in Xian City and her hotel for several days, she still failed to hide from the woman before her. Moreover, of all the days the rain could''vee, it just had to pour on the day she went out with this woman, which then led to this sudden kiss. Everything had happened too quickly and too suddenly that Ange had no time to organize her thoughts. The only thing she could think of right now was: <em>Could this really be...heaven''s will?</em>


    Realizing that Ange wasn''t resisting, Fang Qin wrapped an arm around the other party''s waist and shut her eyes to focus on the kiss.


    When Ange felt Fang Qin''s soft tongue separating her lips and probing her teeth, she instinctively opened her mouth. Then, the slippery tongue took advantage of this opportunity, intruded upon Ange''s mouth, and began wreaking havoc.


    Tasting a hint of sweetness from the tip of her tongue, Ange chased after the source with curiosity.


    Fang Qin was delighted by Ange''s initiative, so she moved a hand to Ange''s front.


    Upon hearing the sound of her jacket''s zipper opening and sensing Fang Qin''s cold palm touching the skin of her waist, Ange came back to her senses and held down the misbehaving hand.


    "Wait"


    A fiery passion lit up in Fang Qin''s eyes as she tasted Ange''s wet lips. Then, she separated her lips from Ange''s and said, "Take it off. Otherwise, you''ll really catch a cold."


    Both of them were drenched right now. Although the running air conditioner warmed the room, it was still ufortable to be wearing wet clothes.


    Ange found herself bewitched by both Fang Qin''s eyes and voice. By the time she came to her senses, Fang Qin had already stripped and threw her wet jacket aside.


    Fang Qin had already removed her scarf on the way into the room. So, nothing was preventing her drenched shirt from revealing the outline of her chest.


    Fang Qin had a slim body and an equally slim neck. Her corbone was prominent, and her breasts were not particrly plump. Overall, her shriveled figure was not the type Ange liked. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, whenever Ange smelled the fragranceing off of Fang Qin''s body, she couldn''t help but grow restless. And when she saw the strands of wet hair stuck in the shallow ravine revealed by Fang Qin''s V-neck shirt, her throat subconsciously tightened.


    In no time at all, Fang Qin leaned forward and kissed Ange again. While doing so, she grabbed the hem of Ange''s sweater with both hands and effortlessly removed it as she did with the jacket.


    Ange could feel the cold hands slowly running up her back warming up. However, when she felt those warm handsing into contact with the hook of her bra, she gently pushed against Fang Qin''s shoulders. This time, the sign of her resistance had be more obvious.


    Fang Qin thought Ange was feeling regret, so she couldn''t help but panic a little. Immediately, she embraced the woman in front of her and asked in a whisper, "Is that a no?"


    Ange''s breath grew a little short. Then, while doing her best to prevent her voice from trembling, she said, "Tang''er told me you loved your ex-girlfriend a lot."


    <em>She''s bringing this up at such a critical juncture? </em>Fang Qin was a little stunned. Then, she dejectedly said, "That''s all in the past. I don''t feel that way toward her now."


    Ange took a breath and curled her fingers on Fang Qin''s shoulders. Then, she said, "You two have been together for three years."


    "Do you...mind this?"


    Ange didn''t have much of a virginplex. However, whenever she recalled that Fang Qin had been with another woman for three years and how skilled Fang Qin was at kissing, she couldn''t help but have a bitter feeling.


    Yet, Ange also refused to acknowledge that this bitter feeling was jealousy.


    Fang Qin regarded Ange''s silence as acquiescence. Her expression turning sullen, she gradually moved her hands away from Ange''s back. However, just as she was about to say "I''m sorry," Ange suddenly hugged her.


    Fang Qin was stunned. Before she could make sense of what was going on, Ange suddenly sealed her mouth with an emotional kiss.


    After the brief kiss, Ange looked up and met with Fang Qin''s shocked gaze. Then, she provocatively said, "She must''ve dumped you because of your poor skills."


    "..." After Fang Qin recovered from her surprise, her expression loosened. Then, she gently blew at Ange''s eyes and said, "Let''s find out then, shall we?"


    No longer giving Ange a chance to retreat, Fang Qin immediately overwhelmed the shorter woman and pushed her onto the bed.


    Then, the two began entangling their bodies with each other and eagerly removed the defenses protecting their modesty.


    The thick curtains blocked the scenery outside, and the raindrops hitting the window covered up the amorous soundsing from inside the room.


    Despite having practiced abstinence for a few days, Murong Shi''s skills had not regressed at the slightest. Xu Chuanchuan''s defenses crumbled in no time under thebined assault of Murong Shi''s fingers and tongue. After letting out a long "Ahn," Xu Chuanchuan''s body convulsed and turned into jelly.


    "Already? It''s only been five minutes," Murong Shi teased while wiping the sweat on Xu Chuanchuan''s forehead with the back of her hand.


    Ever since they started living together, Xu Chuanchuan had be weaker and weaker when it came to activities on the bed. Now, Murong Shi only needed to touch her slightly before she started feeling it down there...


    When Murong Shi''s hand moved past the tip of her nose, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly smelled a familiar scent. Immediately, her expression stiffened as she asked, "Did you wipe your hands just now?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s cheeks were flushed, her lips were red and swollen, and her eyes were watery. Looking at this sight, Murong Shi couldn''t help but kiss her lover. Then, she opened her palm and showed it to Xu Chuanchuan.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan instantly knew the answer when she saw the glossy liquid on Murong Shi''s hand. Immediately, a blush appeared on her face as she shouted, "Why did you touch my forehead and hair, then?! It''s so dirty!"


    In response, Murong Shi grinned and asked, "Is it? I don''t think it''s dirty."


    After saying so, Murong Shi began using the glossy liquid to paint Xu Chuanchuan''s left breast, the earnest look on her face making her look like a baker putting thestyer of cream on a delicious cake...


    Then, after adding the finishing touches, Murong Shi leaned forward with her mouth and began tasting the "delicacy" she prepared.


    Xu Chuanchuan immediately gasped.


    An hourter, Xu Chuanchuan limplyid on the bed with her limbs spread out. Then, while looking at the dimly lit room, she asked, "Why did the sky suddenly go dark?"


    In response, Murong Shi pulled out the pillow under Xu Chuanchuan''s buttocks and said, "It started raining just now."


    <em>So that''s why it felt a little cold just now,</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought as she closed her legs. Just as she was about to scurry under the nket, Murong Shi suddenly picked her up by the waist.


    Sensing her body separating from the bed, Xu Chuanchuan reflexively sandwiched Murong Shi''s hips with her legs and eximed, "What are you doing?"


    "How are you supposed to sleep on that?" Murong Shi asked as she pointed her chin at the bed.


    Following Murong Shi''s line of sight, Xu Chuanchuan found a big wet patch on the purple bed sheet, and she couldn''t help but blush in embarrassment.


    After setting Xu Chuanchuan down on a chair, Murong Shi removed the stained bed sheet and said, "I think it''d be better if we put a waterproof membrane underneath the sheets in the future."


    Xu Chuanchuan covered her boiling face. Then, peeking at Murong Shi''s busy figure through the gaps of her fingers, she asked, "Is Is the pillow alright?"


    Murong Shi picked up the wrinkled pillow and gave it a few pats. Then, she chuckled and said, "How can it be alright? Even the inside is wet already."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "..."


    The pillow in question was the one Murong Shi normally used. Xu Chuanchuan wanted to throw it away now that she had dirtied it, but Murong Shi refused, saying, "We''ll keep it as a memento."


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless.


    In the end, the pillow became the third addition to Murong Shi''s "collection," with the first being the strand of hair that came off of the cat tail and the second being a love egg that had stopped functioning.


    To ensure the sullied pillow remained unaffected by the environment, Murong Shi used the packing bag that came with the whale bolster to store it. Then, she carefully put the pillow away at the bottom of the wardrobe as if she was tucking away a baby.


    Xu Chuanchuan quietly watched Murong Shi do all these things. After rubbing away the goosebumps on her arms, she said, "If others find out that you''re keeping these things, they''ll definitely think you''re a pervert."


    Murong Shi did not refute Xu Chuanchuan''s words. After closing the wardrobe, she walked over to Xu Chuanchuan and carried her lover back to the bed. Then, she stuffed Xu Chuanchuan into the nket and said, "Those are one-of-a-kind treasures."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s lips twitched when she heard this, having no idea how she should respond.


    Then, putting on a mischievous smile, Murong Shi pinched Xu Chuanchuan''s stiff cheeks and said, "Darling, you''re so magical. I wonder what kind of treasure you''ll create next?"


    "Y-Y-You! We''re going to run out of space if you continue keeping all this junk!"


    In response, Murong Shi righteously said, "Which is why I n to buy a big disy cab to store these things once renovations for the new house areplete. I''ll even put the cab in the study so that you''ll get to admire your work while writing. Isn''t that an interesting idea?"


    Just imagining the sight Murong Shi described caused Xu Chuanchuan to get goosebumps all over her body. Then, she coldly said, "I''ll suffer from writer''s block every day."


    Murong Shi simply chuckled in response. Then, she changed the topic and said, "I''m feeling a little hungry."


    "Me too" Xu Chuanchuan said while rubbing her t stomach.


    "Should we go out to eat or call for a delivery?"


    "Delivery." Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t even muster an ounce of strength right now.


    Hearing this, Murong Shi grabbed her phone and opened her Meituan app.


    While waiting for the food delivery to arrive, Murong Shi had already tossed the dirtied bed sheet and pillow casing into the washing machine.


    Meanwhile, the matter of Ange and Fang Qin''s date suddenly came into Xu Chuanchuan''s mind. When she looked at the dark sky outside, she couldn''t help but grow curious about the sess of their date. Unfortunately, when she sent Ange a message asking about the situation, she did not receive a reply even after a long time had passed.

 Chapter 101: Pt.2

    Chapter 101: Pt.2


    On the other side of the same city


    Two people who had just concluded their amorous businessid down with their backs facing each other. Despite sharing the same bed and nket, the two acted as if they didn''t know each other and kept their mouths shut for a long time.


    Eventually, though, Fang Qin couldn''t take the silence any longer and asked, "Are you...okay?"


    "Mhm," Ange ndly replied, her voice showing neither hints of exhaustion nor joy.


    Fang Qin pondered for a moment, turned around, and looked at Ange''s messy hair. Then, she thought to help Ange straighten her hair but stopped before her hand reached it. Instead, she began quietly inching her way closer to Ange.


    The room was quiet, so even the softest of noise would be amplified by magnitudes. Ange naturally heard Fang Qin approaching her, so she hurriedly moved to the edge of the bed.


    However, Ange quickly stiffened when she felt a thin and dry handnding on her waist, followed by a warm and tender body sticking to her back.


    After securing her prey, Fang Qin teasingly spoke by Ange''s ear, saying, "You''re about to fall off."


    Fortunately, Ange had her back against Fang Qin, so thetter couldn''t see the blush on her face. Then, after mentally struggling for a moment, she said, "Then, you move over a little."


    Fang Qin acquiesced and began moving back bit by bit. However, her arm remained wrapped around Ange''s waist, so their bodies inevitably rubbed against each other as Fang Qin moved. The friction, in turn, stimted Ange and caused her body to heat up again, so she tried to struggle free from Fang Qin''s embrace.


    Eventually, Fang Qin had enough of this awkward struggle and decisively turned Ange''s body around. Then, their eyes met.


    Upon thinking of the madness just now, Ange awkwardly lowered her head to avoid Fang Qin''s eyes.


    On the other hand, Fang Qin fixed her gaze on Ange and asked in a hopeful tone, "How was my technique?"


    "..." There wasn''t much light in the room, but as their bodies were practically stuck to each other, Ange could see even the pores on Fang Qin''s face. After deliberately looking away, Ange indifferently said, "So-so."


    "Then...do you want to do it again?"


    Ange''s mouth opened slightly, and she stared at Fang Qin with an incredulous gaze.


    "I''m messing with you," Fang Qin said with a faint smile. "I know it''s your first time."


    So what if it''s my first time? Do you think you''re amazing just because you''re experienced?


    When Ange saw Fang Qin flipping the nket away and trying to get out of bed, her brain suddenly malfunctioned, and she reached out to pull Fang Qin''s hand in the heat of the moment.


    Caught off guard, Fang Qin got dragged back without resistance. Then, before she could react to the situation, a certain someone had pressed her back onto the bed.


    The rain hadsted only two hours, yet Ange had stayed cooped up in Fang Qin''s small apartment for five whole days.


    They spent the first two days together because it was the weekend. Apart from eating, bathing, and using the toilet, they had spent the rest of their time in bed.


    As for the next three days, Ange stayed in Fang Qin''s apartment because she suddenly developed a fever. Although Fang Qin had to leave for work during the day, she would immediately rush back to take care of Ange after work. The care she provided was nothing but meticulous.


    As Ange didn''t return to the hotel, she dared not tell Xu Chuanchuan about her illness. It was also only after she had recovered from her fever did she notice the messages her friend had sent her.


    Looking at the message asking about her development with Fang Qin, Ange hesitated for a long time before replying: "We did it."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "That fast?!?!"


    Their rtionship had indeed developed rapidly. When their weekend debauchery ended, Ange had even suspected that everything was but a wet dream for a moment. However, there was also no doubting that all of this was real.


    Initially, Ange had thought to leave and pretend as if nothing had happened. In fact, on the first evening, she <em>did</em> try to leave when Fang Qin was showering. However, when she set off to execute her escape n, she came to discover that her clothes were still hanging outside to dry.


    Naturally, Ange wasn''t so bold as to run away butt naked, so she obediently returned to the bed. Then, when Fang Qin finished showering and came out of the bathroom, she gently asked, "Does it still hurt?"


    These four simple words instantly filled Ange''s heart with guilt.


    <em>How scummy am I to think of running away after doing it?</em>


    Ange''s eyes wandered around guiltily for a moment. Eventually, though, she couldn''t help resist the temptation and turned to stare at Fang Qin''s long and beautiful legs. Then, after nervously swallowing her saliva, she said, "I''m not that fragile."


    Yet, despite her im, Ange still fell sick in the end.


    Ange absolutely refused to admit that she had fallen sick because her body was weak. Instead, she attributed her sickness to being unustomed to a foreignnd.


    Shaking her groggy head, Ange slowly typed a reply, saying: "We''re both single adults who have physical needs. So, if we want to do it, we''ll do it. What''s so strange about it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan was already used to Ange''s bold remarks, so she didn''t think much of her friend''s reply. Instead, she said: "Congrats! Congrats!"


    Ange: "For what?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Now that you two have already done it, hurry up and get together!"


    Ange fell into a daze when she read thetter half of Xu Chuanchuan''s message.


    Get together?


    This was a problem she hadn''t really thought about


    Thus, when Fang Qin came back from work that day and solemnly said "Tang Xin, be my girlfriend," Ange couldn''t help but feel a little stunned after some simple pleasantries.


    Staring at Fang Qin nkly, Ange asked, "Why?"


    Smiling, Fang Qin said, "I like you, and you like me. Also...we''re a good match in <em>that </em>aspect, so wouldn''t it be good for us to be together?"


    When Ange saw Fang Qin slowly approaching her, she panicked and subconsciously blurted, "No"


    "No?" Xu Chuanchuan nearly spat out her food when she heard her friend''s story. After patting her chest and calming down, she looked at the person seated across her incredulously and asked, "Why did you refuse?"


    Ange had already recovered from her fever, and her clothes had dried up, so she "fled" from Fang Qin''s home and returned to her solitary life in the hotel.


    However, as her mood kept staying terrible, Ange eventually invited Xu Chuanchuan for a private chat.


    Xu Chuanchuan had brought food with her, so they talked while they ate. Naturally, Xu Chuanchuan also asked about what exactly happened that day.


    Even though the situation was filled with intense emotions, Ange had described it indifferently. Only, when she brought up the part where Fang Qin asked to date her, cracks began appearing in her calm facade.


    "No reason in particr," Ange said while stuffing some food into her mouth.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan put down her chopsticks and urgently asked, "Since you like her, why didn''t you agree?"


    Raising an eyebrow, Ange responded in a dull tone, "Who said I liked her?"


    "Why did you do <em>that </em>with her if you didn''t like her?!"


    Revealing a yful smile, Ange said, "I''ve always been a superficial person. I already told you that I''m a scummy person, yet you didn''t believe me."


    Xu Chuanchuan choked. Then, she said, "I don''t believe you. We''ve known each other for six years now. I wouldn''t have stayed friends with you for so long if you had a bad personality. Also, you''ve been writing for so many years now, and there are plenty of beautiful readers trying to seduce you every day. If you were a superficial and callous person, you would''ve long since screwed your fans. I know you''re not that type of person."


    Ange''s smile gradually faded along with her appetite. Then, she put down her chopsticks and said, "I''m just worried that"


    "Worried about what?"


    Ange took a sip of water to moisturize her throat. Then, she slowly continued, "She and I stillck understanding of each other. We don''t know each other''s habits and personalities. I''m worried that...she might turn out to be another Fragrant Citrus."


    Frowning, Xu Chuanchuan said, "How is that possible?"


    "It''s hard to tell," Ange said, sighing. "I used to like Fragrant Citrus a lot back then, whether it was her face, body, or cute personality. I found her to be very cute and lovable. But when I invited her to live with me in Shanghai, I came to realize that her cuteness was nothing but an act. She turned out to bezy and vain. This revtion disgusted me, which is why I dumped her without hesitation."


    "But Fang Qin isn''t that type of person. She is a very good person."


    "Does being a good person mean she will be a good match for me?"


    "You''ll only know if you match once you''ve tried dating her!" As an experienced hand, Xu Chuanchuan felt that she needed to give Ange a lecture. "I used to reject Murong Shi a lot in the past. I felt that she was bossy and domineering. But didn''t we still end up together? Even if you two are a mismatch in some aspects, if you two really like each other, you''ll learn to change for the other party."


    "Are you done?"


    "...Yes." Xu Chuanchuan grew a little restless when she saw her friend''s unfazed expression. Then, she suddenly thought of something as she said, "A good person like Fang Qin is hard toe by. If I didn''t have Murong, I would''ve long since gone after Fang Qin."


    Raising an eyebrow, Ange jokingly asked, "Aren''t you afraid I''ll ry these words to your Big Jealous Bug?"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s expression changed a little. However, she quickly regained her calm and said, "Don''t interrupt. We''re still not done with your business. Ange, you must seize fate once it arrives. Otherwise, you''ll live to regret it."


    Ange fell into contemtion.

 Chapter 102: Pt.1

    Chapter 102: Pt.1


    Xu Chuanchuan had stopped writing recently because of the giarism problem. Now that she had more free time than she knew what to do with, she frequently visited Ange.


    Looking at Xu Chuanchuanzily fiddling with her phone on the bed, Ange said, "Won''t that person at home say something if you keeping here?"


    <em>How could she not say anything? </em>Xu Chuanchuan thought sarcastically. In fact, she was currently chatting with Murong Shi on WeChat, and Murong Shi had asked when she would be going home. So, she replied: "It''s still early."


    Murong Shi was naturally upset by this reply.


    Typically, they would return to the Murong household during weekends. Yet, Xu Chuanchuan had gone to visit Ange this weekend, her reason being: "It''s rare for Ange to visit S City. Also, she just recovered from a fever, so I have to apany her."


    In the end, Murong Shi had no choice but to return home by herself.


    After putting down her phone, Xu Chuanchuan shook her stiff wrists and said, "Things get stale when two people stick to each other every day. Having the asional separation helps prolong our rtionship."


    "But you being here ruins my mood to write."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked at theptop upon hearing Ange''s words. Then, when she saw the nk document on the screen, she said, "Don''t shift the me onto me. It''s you who doesn''t want to write. You''ve been staring at your phone ever since I arrived. Don''t tell me you''re waiting for Fang Qin''s message?"


    "..." Tossing her phone aside, Ange said, "Who''s waiting for her? I''m just looking at the time."


    "Doesn''t yourputer disy the time?"


    Ange momentarily choked. Then, she said in annoyance, "Go home."


    "Fine, fine, I''ll leave," Xu Chuanchuan said as she helplessly stood up.


    At this time, Ange''s phone suddenly started ringing. Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan immediately halted her footsteps and huddled over to the phone. Then, she eximed exaggeratedly, "Oh my, it''s Fang Qin! Are you going to answer it?"


    Ange''s eyes flickered. Then, under Xu Chuanchuan''s hopeful gaze, she rejected the call without hesitation.


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you not going to answer it? What if it''s something important?"


    Shutting her eyes, Ange said, "What else could she be calling for? She''s just"


    "What?"


    When Ange opened her eyes again, she found Xu Chuanchuan''s face appearing within centimeters of her. Then, after pushing her friend away, she embarrassingly said, "She''s just calling to ask if I want to be her girlfriend."


    A hint of concern appearing in her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are you done considering, then?"


    "No," Ange answered without even thinking.


    "Then" Ange responded so quickly that Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how she should follow up.


    Seemingly afraid that Ange would find her annoying, Fang Qin did not call for a second time. Instead, she sent a message.


    Fang Qin: "Still asleep? Or did you deliberately reject my call?"


    Ange inexplicably grew irritated when she read this message.


    Xu Chuanchuan also "identally" saw the message, so she said, "Regardless of whether you''re done considering, you should at least send her a reply. Otherwise, leaving her hanging like that is just"


    Both Ange and Fang Qin were her friends, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but be troubled by this situation. However, she also refused to give up as she sincerely wished for this matchmaking to seed.


    Although Ange spoke indifferently about Fang Qin, Xu Chuanchuan could tell that Ange had feelings for Fang Qin. However, it was also because of this reason that Xu Chuanchuan felt confused. Since the two had already gone as far as to have sex, why was Ange still hesitating over entering a rtionship with Fang Qin? Did Ange''s failed rtionship with Fragrant Citrus really affect her so deeply?


    "Are you still hung up over Fragrant Citrus?" Xu Chuanchuan tentatively asked.


    "How is that possible?" Ange said in a contemptuous tone.


    Xu Chuanchuan stared at Ange in silence.


    During this time, Ange''s phone rang once more as Fang Qin sent her a message, saying: "I bought some snacks for you. I''ve dropped them off at the front desk, so make sure toe down and take them. It''s best to eat them while they''re hot."


    <em>She''s downstairs?</em> Ange''s heart thumped.


    Xu Chuanchuan did not see this message. After seeing no response from Ange for some time, she grew bored and said, "Take your time thinking about it. I''ll take my leave now."


    "Wait"


    "Huh? You''re done thinking already?"


    "I I''ll follow you downstairs. I have something to pick up."


    Xu Chuanchuan did not doubt Ange''s words.


    Then, the two friends made their way down to the hotel lobby. When they exited the elevator, they immediately saw someone they didn''t expect standing by the front desk. This person was tall and slim, and the white, long-sleeved shirt she wore made her paleplexion look even paler.


    Upon seeing this person, Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes widened as she called out, "Fang Qin!"


    Hearing her name being called, Fang Qin turned toward the source. She was first stunned to see Xu Chuanchuan, but then she smiled and greeted, "Hi Did you not apany Murong back home today?"


    "I came to visit Ange today. Unfortunately, she didn''t appreciate my visit. She even chased me away," Xu Chuanchuan said, curling her lips.


    While listening to Xu Chuanchuan speak, Fang Qin couldn''t help herself from looking at the person standing behind Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Ange felt the familiar and tender gazending on her body, her body heated up, and her footsteps stopped.


    Meanwhile, Xu Chuanchuan''s thoughts ran wild when she saw this situation. Then, she winked at Fang Qin and said, "You must be here to look for Ange, right?"


    Fang Qin smiled but did not reply.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan tacitly said, "In that case, I''ll take my leave first! You two take your time! Bye-bye!"


    Ange didn''t even have time to say goodbye to Xu Chuanchuan. By the time she regained her senses, Xu Chuanchuan''s figure had already disappeared into the distance. "..."


    Since Ange was already here, Fang Qin took back the box of snacks she left at the front desk. Then, she approached Ange and said, "Here, these are for you."


    It was a box of pastries. Looking at the mist clouding the box''s transparent cover, Ange guessed that the pastries were freshly baked.


    Returning her gaze to Fang Qin''s face, Ange asked, "Why haven''t you left yet?"


    As soon as Ange finished speaking, she immediately noticed something wrong with her words. She felt that they sounded familiar.


    However, before Ange could recall when she had heard these words before, she heard Fang Qin saying, "I stuck around to wait for you."


    Raising an eyebrow, Ange asked, "What if I didn''te down? Would you have continued waiting here for hours like a fool?"


    "I will," Fang Qin confidently said, affection overflowing from her eyes.


    Ange felt her throat tightening when she heard Fang Qin''s answer. Then, she turned her gaze away and asked, "Don''t you need to work?"


    "It''s the weekend today."


    "..." Ange shook her head when she realized her blunder. After all, if it wasn''t the weekend, where would Xu Chuanchuan find the time to visit her so early in the day? Afterward, she epted the pastries and said, "Thank you."


    Then, Ange turned around to leave.


    "Aren''t you going to invite me upstairs?" Fang Qin asked, tugging at the hem of Ange''s coat.


    Ange didn''t expect Fang Qin to move closer to her, so she nearly hit the taller woman when she turned around. After stabilizing her body, she grumpily said, "It''s not my home. What''s there to see in a"


    Ange instantly found her soul captivated when she met with Fang Qin''s affectionate eyes, the words she wanted to say vanishing from her mouth. Then, she cleared her throat and corrected herself, saying, "Let''s go."


    After leaving the hotel, Xu Chuanchuan took a taxi to the Murong household.


    Xu Chuanchuan had notified Murong Shi of her arrival beforehand, but she didn''t think that Murong Shi would fail to inform the others in the house. Hence, when Aunt Lian opened the door for her, the older woman revealed a look of surprise and asked, "Weren''t you busy with something?"


    "I''m free now," Xu Chuanchuan said with a bright smile.


    "Is that Chuanchuan? Quicklye in!" Murong Mingshu beckoned when she saw Xu Chuanchuan standing at the entrance.


    When Xu Chuanchuan changed into her house slippers and entered the house, she saw Murong Mingshu and Murong Shi shelling walnuts in the living room. So she quickly took off her coat, set aside her handbag, and went over to help out.


    From the time Xu Chuanchuan entered the house to the time she sat down on the living room sofa, Murong Shi did not spare her even a nce. Finding this situation to be strange, she deliberately snatched the metal pliers in Murong Shi''s hand and said, "Let me do it. I''m the best at shelling walnuts."


    Murong Shi finally looked at Xu Chuanchuan at this time. Only, her gaze looked a little dull.


    Confused, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "...Why are you looking at me like that?"


    Instead of answering Xu Chuanchuan''s question, Murong Shi said, "It''s a little cold. I''ll go and put on an additionalyer."


    "It''s cold?" Xu Chuanchuan was puzzled. The living room was plenty warm, in her opinion. Even after taking off her coat, she still felt that the room was a little too hot.


    While taking a look at her daughter''s departing figure, Murong Mingshu quietly asked, "Chuanchuan, did you two argue?"


    "No?"


    "She''s been wearing that sullen face ever since she came home. Do you know anything about that?"


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan roughly knew the cause of Murong Shi''s behavior. So, she put down the walnut and pliers in her hands and stood up. Then, she said, "Auntie, you don''t need to worry; we didn''t argue. I''ll go take a look at her for now ande backter."


    "Go ahead, go ahead."


    Murong Shi had already entered her room and closed the door behind her by the time Xu Chuanchuan arrived. After knocking on the door and receiving no reply, Xu Chuanchuan went ahead and opened the door.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan did not see Murong Shi''s figure after entering the room, so she guessed that thetter must''ve gone into the wardrobe. Then, as soon as she closed the door behind her, someone suddenly pressed her against the door.


    "Ah"


    Murong Shi thought she had hurt Xu Chuanchuan, so she quickly withdrew her hands. As soon as she did so, Xu Chuanchuan agilely turned around and embraced her. Rather than feeling pain, her lover currently wore a fawning smile on her face as she looked up at her.


    "Are you angry?" Xu Chuanchuan asked.


    Murong Shi maintained a straight face and responded with a question, asking, "When is Tang Xin leaving?"


    "How would I know?" While immersing herself in Murong Shi''s scent, Xu Chuanchuan said, "She just started her rtionship with Fang Qin. If she left now, what would happen to Fang Qin?"


    Snorting, Murong Shi said, "Fang Qin really is useless. It''s been so long already, yet she still hasn''t taken down that woman."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan disagreed, saying, "Compared to you, I think Fang Qin is much more amazing."


    "How so?"


    "Fang Qin already kissed Ange the first time they met. Then, on their fifth meeting, they''re already rolling around on the bed. Isn''t that amazing?"


    "Are you trying to say that I was too slow when dealing with you?"


    "No, no, our long process is good as well."


    Frowning, Murong Shi said, "You''re already growing tired of me."


    "When did I say that?!" Xu Chuanchuan aggrievedly shouted.


    "You were praising Fang Qin''s greatness just a moment ago. You said that I''m inferior to her."


    <em>She''s even getting jealous of Fang Qin?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan was convinced of Murong Shi''s ability to get jealous. Afraid that her skill with words wascking, she decided to coax Murong Shi using what little sex appeal she had, tiptoeing to kiss Murong Shi.


    Then, Murong Shi immediately turned the tables on Xu Chuanchuan.

 Chapter 102: Pt.2

    Chapter 102: Pt.2


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi returned downstairs, Murong Mingshu had already finished shelling all of the walnuts and passed them to Aunt Lian in the kitchen. Aunt Lian had then used the walnuts to cook up a soup.


    Murong Mingshu had always followed a healthy regimen, so she would drink soup more often whenever the weather was cold. When she served a bowl of soup to Xu Chuanchuan, she said, "Little Shi says that you use your brain often. Walnuts help with brain development, so you should eat more of them."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think that Murong Mingshu had been shelling walnuts for her sake, so she couldn''t help but be moved by this gesture.


    Sun An wasn''t home, so the family was at peace. Ever since finding out about her daughter''s rtionship with Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Mingshu had grown fonder of Xu Chuanchuan. "The New Year''s ising soon. Will you be going back to visit your parents?"


    "I''ll be going back with my little sister," Xu Chuanchuan said, smiling. It had already been half a month since she had returned from Xian City. She didn''t know if her father''s anger had subsided yet, so she thought of going back to check.


    "Then, your father..." Murong Shi grew a little worried for Xu Chuanchuan when she thought about the girl''s father.


    Meanwhile, Murong Shi looked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "I can go back with you if you''re afraid."


    However, after pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan eventually rejected Murong Shi''s offer and said, "It''s okay. I can handle it."


    ...


    On New Year''s Day, Xu Chuanchuan and Xu Xiangxiang returned to Xian City by bus.


    On the way, Xu Xiangxiang patted her chest and said, "Sis, don''t be afraid. If Dad dares to hit you, I''ll go tell Grandpa! He won''t dare to go against Grandpa!"


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly said, "You must never tell Grandpa about Murong and me!"


    Father Xu had inherited his stubborn and conservative personality from Grandpa Xu. Xu Chuanchuan was already having a difficult time getting through Father Xu''s hurdle. If they added Grandpa Xu into the equation, wouldn''t their entire family fall into chaos?


    "If he wants to beat you, just cry out your lungs. He wouldn''t bear to take action once he sees that," Xu Xiangxiang proposed another suggestion.


    This time, Xu Chuanchuan actually thought her little sister''s idea was good.


    ...


    This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan had been so anxious to return home. It was also thanks to her anxiety that she didn''t get carsick throughout the ride back home.


    By the time the two sisters got home, it was already eight o''clock, and the sky had long since darkened. After calling Murong Shi to report her safe arrival, Xu Chuanchuan made her way upstairs with Xu Xiangxiang.


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan unlocked the front door and entered the house, she saw her parents watching TV in the living room. Then, after mustering her courage, she said, "Mom, Dad, we''re home."


    Immediately, Mother Xu came over to help her daughters with their luggage. Father Xu, however, remained silent.


    "I just heated the food, so let''s eat first before you unpack," Mother Xu said.


    After the two sisters went to wash their hands and came out of the bathroom, they saw their father pouring himself some liqueur and drinking by himself in front of the dining table. Then, Xu Xiangxiang walked over and said, "Dad, I''ll drink with you."


    However, Mother Xu quickly stopped her youngest daughter''s n, saying, "What do you think you''re doing trying to drink liqueur? Eat first."


    Xu Xiangxiang stuck out her tongue and picked up her bowl and chopsticks upon being chided.


    Xu Chuanchuan saw that her father wore an unfriendly expression on his face, so she dared not speak up, opting to quietly sit down and eat her food.


    Father Xu didn''t take a single bite of rice throughout the entire meal. He only drank his alcohol and took a few bites of the cooked dishes. Then, after finishing his liqueur, he stood up and left the table.


    Xu Chuanchuan thought that her father didn''t wish to sit at the same table as her, so she couldn''t help but feel bitter about this situation.


    Sometime after Father Xu left, Xu Chuanchuan took out a debit card and gave it to Mother Xu, saying, "Mom, the Lunar New Year ising soon. There is 30,000 yuan inside here; use it to buy whatever you want."


    Surprised, Mother Xu asked, "Where did you get so much money? Did Little Shi give it to you?"


    "Of course not. I earned this money myself."


    "You said you were already broke after buying the massage chair. How did you save up 30,000 so quickly with that measly monthly sry of yours?"


    With things as they were, Xu Chuanchuan no longer wished to keep any secrets from her family. So, she came clean and told her mother and her little sister about her part-time job as an author.


    Mother Xu was surprised once more after hearing her daughter''s revtion.


    "You''re writing novels? Really?" Xu Xiangxiang skeptically asked as she scrutinized her elder sister. "You don''t look like an author."


    "Why not?"


    "You can write novels with that slow brain of yours?"


    Rolling her eyes, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Believe it or not, it''s up to you."


    Unlike Xu Xiangxiang, Mother Xu did not doubt Xu Chuanchuan''s words. Instead, she curiously asked, "How much can you make a month through writing novels, then?"


    In the past, Xu Chuanchuan made between 10,000 and 30,000 yuan a month through her novels. Though, her royalties had increased substantially recently because of hertest book''s good performance. However, to avoid setting any expectations, Xu Chuanchuan lied, saying, "It''s roughly the same as my monthly sry."


    "That''s a lot," Mother Xu said.


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I wouldn''t have dared to buy a house for you all if I didn''t have any additional ie."


    Subsequently, Xu Xiangxiang grabbed onto Xu Chuanchuan''s arm and asked her elder sister many questions. She even asked for Xu Chuanchuan''s pen name, saying that she would go support her online. However, Xu Chuanchuan refused to reveal her pen name, causing Xu Xiangxiang to feel depressed.


    As for Mother Xu, she wasn''t too interested in this topic, so she said, "You''re already grown up, so you should save some money for yourself. Now that you''ve already paid the down payment for this house, just leave the monthly repayments to your father and me. Keep this card for yourself."


    However, Xu Chuanchuan refused to take back the debit card, saying, "This is for you to buy New Year goods."


    After hesitating for a moment, Mother Xu said, "Give it to your father, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan had originally nned to use this money to coax her father. After hearing her mother''s suggestion, she gained a little more confidence.


    So, after the meal, Xu Chuanchuan took the debit card and made her way to the master bedroom under Mother Xu''s urging.


    When Xu Chuanchuan entered the room, Father Xu was in the midst of recing the batteries for the air conditioner''s remote. However, even though Father Xu heard Xu Chuanchuan entering the room, he didn''t even look up, pretending as if she was invisible.


    Then, Xu Chuanchuan put the debit card on the bedside table and timidly said, "Dad, there is 30,000 yuan in here that I saved up. You..."


    However, before Xu Chuanchuan could finish speaking, Father Xu had tossed the card to the floor and indifferently said, "I have hands and feet. I don''t need this money of yours."


    When the card hit the floor, Xu Chuanchuan''s heart also sank.


    Even though her father did not scold her or hit her this time, Xu Chuanchuan felt even more ufortable than before.


    Afterward, no matter what Xu Chuanchuan tried to say, Father Xu refused to pay her any attention. Even after Xu Chuanchuan started crying out of anxiety, Father Xu remained indifferent. He even pushed her out of the room and locked the door.


    Even until it was time for the two Xu sisters to return to S City, Father Xu did not change his attitude toward Xu Chuanchuan. This situation caused Xu Chuanchuan to feel very aggrieved.


    While sending off her daughters to the bus station, Mother Xu tried to console her eldest daughter, saying, "There is no hatred thatsts forever between father and daughter. Don''t think too much about it and focus on your work."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan still felt uneasy about the situation, she squeezed a smile onto her face when she heard her mother''s words.


    Two hourster, the Xu sisters arrived back in S City, and Murong Shi came to pick them up in her car. After the Xu sisters got into the car, Murong Shi asked about Father Xu''s situation.


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan just provided a brief and concise summary.


    After listening to Xu Chuanchuan''s answer, Murong Shi fell silent for a moment. Then, she noticed her lover''s slightly swollen eyes, so she asked, "Did you cry?"


    "No."


    "What do you mean ''no''? You cried several times," Xu Xiangxiang said, exposing her elder sister''s lie.


    Murong Shi let out a sigh when she heard this. Then, she reached out and embraced Xu Chuanchuan, saying, "It must''ve been tough for you."


    Ever since returning from Xian City, Xu Chuanchuan''s mood had been at a constant low. She couldn''t help but feel that she had been unlucky recently. Then, when she shared her thoughts with Murong Shi, her lover said, "Should I ask my mom to take you to a temple and wash away your bad luck?"


    Xu Chuanchuan dejectedly shook her head.


    It wasn''t until Ange had sent her a message saying, "I''ve decided to try dating her for a while," did Xu Chuanchuan''s mood brighten up a little. Then, she excitedly shared this good news with Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi wasn''t surprised at all to hear that Ange and Fang Qin had begun dating. Then, she passed something to Xu Chuanchuan, saying, "It''s an invitation from Linda. She and her husband will be holding their wedding next month."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s and Murong Shi''s names were written on the invitation card. The ck letters and red background gave the card a festive look. Revealing a smile, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Linda must be thrilled."


    Then, Murong Shi added, "She is asking you to be her bridesmaids."


    "Why me?" Xu Chuanchuan was puzzled.


    "Most of her friends, rtives, and colleagues are married already, so she couldn''t get enough people for her bridal party. It just so happens that you are still single in the legal sense."


    Linda''s rtionship with Murong Shi was better than her rtionship with Xu Chuanchuan. However, Linda dared not ask Murong Shi to be her bridesmaid. After all, Murong Shi would end up stealing the spotlight with her beauty.


    Bing a bridesmaid required one to choose out a bridesmaid''s dress. Linda had invited Xu Chuanchuan to go pick out a dress on Saturday, so Murong Shi had woken up Xu Chuanchuan early that morning to help thetter massage her slightly swollen face. Then, Murong Shi told Xu Chuanchuan to go apply a facial mask.


    Finding the task troublesome, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "I''m just trying on a dress. Is there a need to do all these things?"


    After applying a facial mask onto Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Murong Shi said, "It''ll be easier to apply makeup if your skin is in good condition. You''ll also look better in photos."


    "I also need to put on makeup?"


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan had never been a bridesmaid before, so she obediently listened to whatever Murong Shi said.


    By the time Xu Chuanchuan could remove her facial mask, Murong Shi had already finished putting on makeup for herself, so she proceeded to help Xu Chuanchuan with her makeup. She even fixed Xu Chuanchuan''s hairstyle, giving her a better look.


    Before leaving the mouse, Murong Shi rubbed Xu Chuanchuan''s stomach and pondered for a moment. Then, she said, "I think you should skip breakfast."


    <em>Is there a need to go so far?</em> Xu Chuanchuan thought to herself.


    Afraid that Xu Chuanchuan would get carsick, Murong Shi stuffed a piece of chewing gum into her lover''s mouth before driving the car to the bridal shop.


    Xu Chuanchuan heard that bridal parties would generally have around six bridesmaids. However, when they arrived, they only saw Linda and her husband. So, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Are the others not here yet?"


    In response, Linda said, "There''s nobody elseing. It''s just the four of us."


    "Huh?" Xu Chuanchuan was confused by this situation.


    The bridal shop they visited was thergest bridal shop in the city. It had many wedding dresses, and the price ranged from tens of thousands to several million.


    Every woman had a dream wedding dress in her heart. As soon as Xu Chuanchuan entered the shop, she was instantly attracted by the beautiful wedding dresses on disy. However, although she wanted to try touching them, she was afraid of getting them dirty, so she simply looked at them from afar.


    "Aren''t you going to try some?" Murong Shi asked in a whisper.


    "Aren''t we here to choose a bridesmaid dress?"


    Overhearing Xu Chuanchuan''s words, a female staff member standing nearby walked over and said, "I''m sorry, miss, but this is a bridal shop. We don''t have bridesmaid dresses here."


    <em>What are we here for, then? </em>Xu Chuanchuan wondered.


    By this time, Linda and her husband had already left to check out the wedding dresses in the shop. So, Murong Shi held Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and said, "Let''s go; we''ll go try some as well."


    <em>There are so many beautiful wedding dresses here; there''s no harm in trying some of them, right?</em>


    Murong Shi''s words sessfully persuaded Xu Chuanchuan.


    However, even though Xu Chuanchuan had only regarded Murong Shi''s suggestion as one of her lover''s whims, Murong Shi had asked the staff member to bring them the most expensive wedding dresses in the store. Dumbfounded by this situation, Xu Chuanchuan asked in a hushed voice, "Wouldn''t it be bad if we dirty it?"


    "It''s fine. It''s very clean here, so you won''t dirty it."


    Xu Chuanchuan was rendered speechless. In her mind, Linda was the protagonist here today. The two of them also didn''t need a wedding dress. So, wouldn''t the shop''s staff have a lot to say if they tried on expensive wedding dresses without buying anything?


    However, Murong Shi did not give Xu Chuanchuan any time to think. She quickly picked out two dresses that caught her fancy and brought Xu Chuanchuan to the dressing room.


    The dressing room wasrge, and it could easily fit both of them. After helping Xu Chuanchuan put on her dress, Murong Shi visually inspected her lover for a moment before nodding in satisfaction and saying, "Beautiful."


    There were mirrors on both sides. When Xu Chuanchuan saw herself in a wedding dress for the first time, she couldn''t help but be shocked. She also had to admit that Murong Shi had a good eye. The dress Murong Shi had chosen for her fit her body very well. The style also wasn''t overlyplicated, and the skirt wasn''t very fluffy. Overall, Xu Chuanchuan found herself looking very sweet in the dress. The only problem was that her waist was a bit too thick... It was fortunate she didn''t have any breakfast.


    Xu Chuanchuan dared not move around in the dress. If she identally dirtied or damaged it, she wouldn''t have enough money to pay for it even if she sold herself.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was standing stiffly in ce, Murong Shi swiftly changed into her own wedding dress.


    Compared to Xu Chuanchuan''s dress, Murong Shi''s dress looked much cleaner with fewer decorations. Even so, it did not reduce her sexiness by the slightest. After all, apart from the important parts, the other parts of the dress were hollowed out and reced with whitece. Xu Chuanchuan nearly had a nosebleed when she saw this alluring sight.


    After rubbing her nose and making sure she didn''t have a nosebleed, Xu Chuanchuan looked at the person in front of her and eximed, "How beautiful..."


    In Xu Chuanchuan''s opinion, this revealing wedding dress was practically tailored for Murong Shi. The dress emphasized Murong Shi''s perfect figure and enchanting face, making it impossible for others to look away from her.


    Waving a hand in front of Xu Chuanchuan, Murong Shi asked, "Stunned?"


    Xu Chuanchuan mechanically nodded.


    Murong Shi smiled and helped Xu Chuanchuan put on her veil. In turn, Xu Chuanchuan clumsily helped Murong Shi put on hers.


    After putting on each other''s veils, Murong Shi opened the dressing room''s door and pushed Xu Chuanchuan out of the room.


    To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Linda was standing outside the dressing room. Upon seeing her boss and her boss''s lover, Linda vigorously pped and said, "Beautiful! Beautiful! Beautiful!"


    At this time, Linda had also changed into a wedding dress of her own. Though, her husband was nowhere to be seen.


    Her wedding dress exposed her shoulders and back, so Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but grow embarrassed when standing in front of Linda.


    Meanwhile, Linda pointed to the left and said, "Head over there. That ce is spacious and perfect for taking pictures."


    Xu Chuanchuan thought Linda was suggesting for them to take a group photo as a memento. However, sheter saw Linda taking out a camera and pointing it at them, saying, "There are flowers behind you. Chuanchuan, take out a few stalks of lilies."


    Xu Chuanchuan followed Linda''s instructions and grabbed a few stalks of lilies from behind. Then, she carefully held them in her arms and smiled at the camera.


    "Ready?" Linda asked.


    "Wait, we''re missing something," Murong Shi interrupted. Then, she grabbed Xu Chuanchuan''s right hand and slipped something into Xu Chuanchuan''s ring finger.


    When Xu Chuanchuan saw a tinum ring appearing on her ring finger, her eyes widened in shock. Before she could make sense of what was going on, Murong Shi took away the lilies in her hand and reced them with another tinum ring.


    Smiling, Murong Shi stretched out her right hand and said, "Stop daydreaming and help me put it on."


    Xu Chuanchuan was utterly dumbfounded as she looked at the simple ring in her left palm. Then, blinking her eyes, she asked, "When did you buy them?"


    "On the day you went home."


    Xu Chuanchuan looked at the wedding dresses she and Murong Shi wore. Then, she looked at the two rings in her hands, seeminglying to a realization. Even so, she still found the situation to be incredible.


    "You..." Xu Chuanchuan tried to speak up, but no words came to her mind.


    Suddenly, Murong Shi leaned forward and looked into Xu Chuanchuan''s eyes. Then, she softly said, "I might not be able to officially marry you in this life, so you can think of today as our wedding day."


    "..." Although Xu Chuanchuan had already guessed it, she still couldn''t help but be thunderstruck when hearing Murong Shi''s words.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt as if something was stuck in her throat. As she looked up into Murong Shi''s affectionate eyes, her own eyes started watering.


    "Don''t try. You''re going to ruin your makeup," Murong Shi said. Then, she raised her ring finger and smiled, "If you''re willing to, put it on for me."

 Chapter 103: Pt.1

    Chapter 103: Pt.1


    Why wouldn''t Xu Chuanchuan be willing?


    She had a wedding dress, flowers, a ring, and the most important person in her life in front of her. Everything was ready.


    Even though the ring wasn''t adorned by diamonds, carvings, or letterings, Xu Chuanchuan found its simplicity to be beautiful.


    Seeing Xu Chuanchuan silently staring at the tinum ring in her palm for a long time, Murong Shi said, "I bought this ring because I was afraid you wouldn''t ept one that was too expensive."


    Xu Chuanchuan naturally understood what Murong Shi was trying to convey. Ever since they started dating, Murong Shi had always cared for Xu Chuanchuan''s fragile pride, amodating her in various aspects such as food and clothing. Murong Shi even adhered to her gifting rule of "no more than 100 yuan."


    Although this ring looked ordinary, Xu Chuanchuan knew that it wouldn''t be too cheap. Even so, this didn''t matter to her.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt her nose heating up. She really wanted to cry right now. However, seeing Murong Shi''s beautiful smile quickly brought up her mood. So, after sorting out her emotions, Xu Chuanchuan slid the ring in her hand onto Murong Shi''s ring finger.


    The small metal ring fit snugly on Murong Shi''s slender finger. Then, as soon as Xu Chuanchuan slipped the ring in ce, Murong Shi immediately grabbed her slightly shaking hand.


    Xu Chuanchuan looked around as her heart pounded in joy. Although she had many things she wanted to say, she didn''t know where to start.


    There were no friends or family here to congratte them. There was also no ceremony or any of the sorts. There was only a simple kiss. After nting a kiss on Xu Chuanchuan''s forehead, Murong Shi moved to kiss her lover on the cheek and said, "Brighten up."


    Xu Chuanchuan was truly surprised by this sudden marriage proposal, so it took her a long time to recover. Then, she sweetly smiled at Murong Shi and said, "Why didn''t you discuss it with me beforehand?"


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but feel a little embarrassed when she thought about how she came here, thinking she would only be trying on bridesmaid dresses.


    "It wouldn''t be interesting if I discussed it with you beforehand. Also, you were feeling depressed for the past few days, so I''ve been wondering how I could make you happy."


    Xu Chuanchuan had been feeling depressed recently because of Father Xu''s matter. She had been so focused on her personal issues that she had ignored Murong Shi. She never thought that Murong Shi would secretly prepare such a surprise behind her back.


    Xu Chuanchuan wasn''t proficient at sweet-talking. So, without caring that she might end up wrinkling her expensive wedding dress, she extended her arms and tightly embraced Murong Shi.


    Meanwhile, as Murong Shi had to hold the lilies, she could only return Xu Chuanchuan''s hug with one hand.


    "Cough, cough" Linda, who had been ignored for some time, faked a cough to remind the couple of her existence.


    Xu Chuanchuan released Murong Shi and turned to Linda. Upon meeting the other party''s teasing gaze, Xu Chuanchuan blushed.


    Linda personally didn''t wish to break this happy atmosphere. Unfortunately, the time they could stay in the shop was limited. So, waving the camera in her hand, she asked, "Are you two ready? Can I start now?"


    Murong Shi stuffed the lilies back into Xu Chuanchuan''s arms and helped her lover adjust her veil. Then, she embraced Xu Chuanchuan from behind, faced the camera, and said to Linda, "You can start now."


    Xu Chuanchuan rarely took photos of herself. This was also the case for Murong Shi. However, this time, the two of them tacitly made all sorts of intimate poses without anyone''s guidance.


    Therge bridal shop also had plenty of props such as floats, swings, flower arches, sofas... Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi used all of these things as a background.


    Linda''s hobby was photography, so she patiently took photos of the couple.


    "I think that''s about it," Linda said as she shook her sore wrists. "I''ve taken several shots of every pose, so you two can take your time going through them and picking the ones you want."


    Xu Chuanchuan eagerly received the camera from Linda. However, whether it was because the camera''s quality was excellent or Linda''s photography skills were superb, Xu Chuanchuan found every picture taken to be perfect and beautiful. Murong Shi looked especially breathtaking in these photos. It didn''t matter from which angle the photos were taken.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bear to part with the camera even after a long time had passed. However, partway through looking at the pictures, she suddenly thought of something important and asked, "We''ve been messing around here for so long. Why hasn''t anyone else entered the shop?"


    Xu Chuanchuan had been too happy before to notice, but now that she had calmed down, she realized that let alone customers, she hadn''t even seen any of the shop''s staff throughout their entire photoshoot. It was as if the staff didn''t care that the three of them were messing around in such expensive wedding dresses. This situation was simply too strange.


    Smiling, Linda said, "What other reason could there be? It''s because Miss Murong has already contacted this ce beforehand."


    Looking at Murong Shi in surprise, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You reserved the whole ce?"


    "Something like that," Murong Shi said, smiling.


    Xu Chuanchuan was at a loss for words. It was no wonder why the staff members did not voice even a question when Murong Shi said to bring over the shop''s most expensive wedding dresses. It turned out that Murong Shi had pre-arranged everything.


    Xu Chuanchuan looked down at the snow-white dress she wore. When she recalled the string of zeros written on the price tag at the back, she immediately panicked and asked, "Now that we''re done taking pictures, should I take it off?"


    Murong Shi curled her lips into a smile when she saw Xu Chuanchuan''s flustered expression. Then, she said, "You don''t need to take it off if you like it."


    "What?" Xu Chuanchuan was puzzled.


    "I can buy both the dresses we''re wearing," Murong Shi nonchntly said.


    Both Xu Chuanchuan and Linda were shocked by Murong Shi''s statement.


    Thebined value of the dresses Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi wore was equivalent to a condo unit in S City. Yet, Murong Shi had spoken as if she was buying dresses worth only dozens of yuan.


    "Sure enough, the world of tycoons isn''t one that poor people like us can understand," Linda said, sighing.


    Meanwhile, when Xu Chuanchuan saw that Murong Shi didn''t seem to be joking, she hurriedly said, "Don''t! It''s enough just to wear them once! We won''t be wearing them anymore in the future, so why waste the money?"


    However, bride-to-be Linda disagreed, saying, "You can''t say that. Wedding dresses are worth collecting as well. Moreover, it is something memorable."


    "Does that mean you will be buying yours?"


    "Of course," Linda said with a bright smile. "I''ve already decided; I''ll be taking the one I''m wearing."


    Hearing this, Xu Chuanchuan walked around Linda and checked the price tag on the dress. Upon seeing the price, she immediately eximed, "Linda, your husband is so rich!"


    Most people would only get married once in their lives, so they would only wear their wedding dress once. Hence, most people chose to rent their wedding dress instead of buying it. This was especially true for expensive wedding dresses. Only wealthy people would spend hundreds of thousands or even millions to buy a wedding dress.


    The only thing Xu Chuanchuan knew about Linda''s husband was that the man worked as a gym instructor. She didn''t know how much gym instructors made a year.


    Then, Linda embarrassingly said, "How could he possibly afford such an expensive wedding dress? This is a wedding gift from Miss Murong."


    Xu Chuanchuan swiftly turned to look at Murong Shi. Then, when she saw Murong Shi nodding her head, Xu Chuanchuan immediately understood how Murong Shi managed to reserve the entire bridal shop for a private photoshoot. It was because Murong Shi had already made a purchase worth hundreds of thousands.


    No matter how beautiful a wedding dress was, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t bear to let Murong Shi waste so much money. Hence, she advised Murong Shi not to be impulsive.


    After much deliberation, Murong Shi eventually eded to Xu Chuanchuan''s wishes.


    It was already close to noon when the group left the bridal shop. Xu Chuanchuan was already starving, so Murong Shi thought of taking her to a restaurant.


    "Do you two want to join us?" Murong Shi asked Linda and her husband.


    Linda already knew of Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi''s rtionship, but her husband didn''t. So, she politely declined the invite to avoid creating an awkward situation.


    Murong Shi didn''t insist on the matter, either. So, the two couples parted ways at the bridal shop.


    Throughout lunch, Xu Chuanchuan kept holding onto the camera and looking through the captured photos. She felt so happy that she couldn''t help but want to announce this joyous news to the whole world.


    Unfortunately, she couldn''t do so.


    Afterward, Xu Chuanchuan uploaded nine photos with different settings and poses onto her social media. She also set it so that only those who knew of her rtionship with Murong Shi could see the pictures.


    The first person to like andment on the photos was Little Yan, and she said: "You two went to take wedding photos?! Why didn''t you take me with you!!!"


    Shortly after Little Yan''sment, Xu Xiangxiang alsomented on the photos, saying, "You two look so beautiful that I''m in tears! I want to try on a wedding dress as well!"


    Xu Chuanchuan''s smile extended from ear to ear when she read these twoments.


    Xu Chuanchuan had attended a colleague''s wedding before, so she knew that the bride and groom would be very busy on the wedding day. However, she and Murong Shi spent their wedding day in a leisurely manner. They had lunch, went shopping, watched a movie, and visited an arcade. They spent their entire day having fun, and they didn''t feel the slightest bit tired.


    It was already dark outside by the time they arrived home. Naturally, as soon as they got home, they began making love to each other without end.


    Murong Shi even joked and said that their room was a bridal chamber.


    After tussling with each other until midnight, Xu Chuanchuan crawled out of bed and grabbed the camera she left on theputer table. Then, she crawled back into Murong Shi''s arms and began admiring their wedding photos once more.


    At this time, both their phones rang simultaneously.


    When Murong Shi grabbed her phone, she saw that Fang Qin had messaged her, saying: "Does this mean you two secretly got married? Congrattions, congrattions."


    Meanwhile, Ange messaged Xu Chuanchuan, saying: "Congrattions. I wish you a hundred years of harmony."


    Xu Chuanchuan had her hands upied with the camera, so Murong Shi sent a reply in her stead.


    After replying to Fang Qin and Ange, Murong Shi nonchntly said, "These two are really interesting."


    "Hm?"


    "It''s the middle of the night, yet their messages arrived within one second of each other."


    "Who knows? They might be together right now," Xu Chuanchuan casually said.

 Chapter 103: Pt.2

    Chapter 103: Pt.2


    "Who knows? They might be together right now."


    Xu Chuanchuan hit the mark with her guess.


    Inside a spacious hotel suite, theptop on the table remained on, and the screensaver was that of a little goldfish spitting bubbles.


    The bedsidemp gave off a dim and ambiguous glow that illuminated the two people lying back to back on the bed. Suddenly, Fang Qin''s phone rang, followed by Ange''s phone ringing a secondter. Both of them had received the same reply.


    Fang Qin pursed her lips and smiled when she saw the words "Thank you."


    The person beside Fang Qin, however, showed no reactions.


    After putting down her phone, Fang Qin turned around and wrapped an arm around the other person on the bed, her arm coincidentally pressing down onto those two soft bundles.


    Ange gasped from the sudden physical contact, her hand nearly dropping her phone.


    Fang Qin nted a soft kiss on the side of Ange''s neck. Then, moving her mouth up to Ange''s ear, she asked, "What are you thinking about?"


    After doing it once in the day and another time in the evening, Ange had already exhausted most of her energy. Yet, her body had seemingly be a bottomless pit of desire as it began heating up from just a casual touch.


    After limatizing herself to Fang Qin''s touch and steadying her breath, Ange said, "I''m just wondering that since they''ve gotten married, should we give them a red packet?"


    "We?"


    "..."


    Fang Qin rubbed her dry fingers against one of Ange''s breasts. While listening to her new girlfriend''s soft gasps, she tenderly smiled and said, "Okay. Let''s wrap them a big one."


    Ange knew that she had misspoken, but she was toote to correct herself. Sensing something swelling up on the breast Fang Qin caressed, Ange gritted her teeth and held down the misbehaving hand. "Stop fooling around."


    Fang Qin stopped her actions but did not remove her hand. Instead, she said, "Go to sleep if you''re tired."


    Ange reached the bedsidemp with just the reach of a hand. Then, with the flick of a switch, the room suddenly went dark.


    Along with her loss of sight, Ange found the sensitivity of her other sensory organs being amplified. Now, she could hear both her and Fang Qin''s breaths. The arm resting on her breasts also made her feel itchy, so she tried moving it away bit by bit.


    Fang Qin didn''t get annoyed by Ange''s actions. Instead, she moved her arm down and rested it on Ange''s waist.


    Realizing that Fang Qin wouldn''t be removing her arm, Ange let out an inaudible sigh as she thought to herself, <em>Whatever. Just let her be.</em>


    "Tang Xin," Fang Qin called out to Ange in a whisper, her thin palm pressed against Ange''s lower abdomen.


    "What?"


    "How about moving in with me?"


    "..." Ange''s droopy eyes snapped wide open when she heard Fang Qin''s question. Then, staring at the darkness in front of her, she asked, "Why should I move in with you?"


    Subsequently, Ange heard rustling soundsing from behind her as Fang Qin flipped her body around. Then, the two of them "stared" at each other in the dark.


    "It''s expensive to stay in a hotel," Fang Qin said while enjoying Ange''s scent.


    "It''s still affordable," Ange nonchntly replied.


    "I know you do notck money," Fang Qin said. Then, taking on a softer tone, she continued, "But it''s inconvenient for me to visit you."


    "Since it''s inconvenient, don''te in the future."


    Ange''s words momentarily stumped Fang Qin. However, instead of getting angry, she smiled and applied more force on the arm wrapped around Ange''s waist. Then, she asked, "Are those your true thoughts?"


    "..." <em>Of course not.</em>


    After waiting for several seconds and receiving no reply, Fang Qin regarded Ange''s silence as acquiescence to her suggestion. Then, she kissed Ange in the dark and happily smiled, saying, "Let''s move your things tomorrow."


    "Is there a need to be in such a hurry?"


    "Mhm. I can''t wait for even a moment longer."


    Ange also started smiling. Then, she asked, "Are you thinking of raising me?"


    "I''m willing to do that."


    "What if I refuse?"


    "You won''t refuse," Fang Qin said. Then, she put her other hand on one of Ange''s breasts and gently rubbed it.


    "..." Suddenly, Ange had a feeling that she would one day die on the bed after falling into the hands of the woman before her.


    The next day, Murong Shi woke up and saw that Fang Qin had sent her a red packet through WeChat. The red packet was sent in the name of Fang Qin herself and Ange. Although it wasn''t arge sum of money, Murong Shi decided to ept it when she saw the words of blessings that came along with it. Then, she told Xu Chuanchuan about this matter.


    Xu Chuanchuan was still half asleep, so she drowsily asked, "Should we invite them out for a meal?"


    Then, Murong Shi called Fang Qin without hesitation and asked the new couple out for a meal.


    However, Fang Qin said, "I''m moving today, so I don''t have time."


    "You''re moving? Where are you moving to this time?"


    "It''s not me who''s moving. Tang Xin is going to move into my ce."


    Murong Shi was very surprised by this news. However, she also found it to be reasonable, so she teasingly said, "You sure moved quickly."


    "I can''t help it. I''m afraid she''ll run away if I''m too slow."


    Since they wouldn''t be dining with Fang Qin and Ange, Murong Shi decided to bring Xu Chuanchuan back to the Murong household. However, after pondering for a while, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Can we go back a littleter?"


    "Do you have something you need to do?"


    Linda had helped them take many pictures yesterday, and Xu Chuanchuan felt satisfied with every one of them. So, after thinking about it all night, she decided to print out those photos and turn them into a photo album.


    Murong Shi strongly agreed with Xu Chuanchuan''s idea after hearing about it.


    Coincidentally, it was the weekend, and thepany had a printer capable of printing photos. So, the two of them stuck into the printing room while nobody else was in thepany.


    Xu Chuanchuan had previously printed photos for work before, so she had an easy time manipting the equipment in the printing room. First, she spent two hours arranging the photos page by page with Photoshop. Then, she printed out the pages,minated them, punched holes into them, and filed them into an album.


    The album''s cover was made of two pieces of cardboard wrapped in pink paper. Xu Chuanchuan found the cover''s design monotonous, so she scribbled on it with some oil-based colored pens. To finish things off, Murong Shi held Xu Chuanchuan''s hand and wrote the word "We" on the front cover inrge fonts. She also drew a heart around the word.


    Finally, the two of thempleted the photo album after working together for several hours.


    When Xu Chuanchuan looked through the photo album, she sighed ruefully and said, "Let''s take more pictures from now on."


    Although Xu Chuanchuan didn''t specify what she meant, Murong Shi understood what her lover was trying to say. So, she replied, "Okay."


    This photo album held extraordinary value to them, so Xu Chuanchuan put it in the bedside drawer. That way, they could take it out and admire its content whenever they wanted.


    After halting releases for her new novel for a month, Xu Chuanchuan started growing restless. She had been keeping tabs on the copycat every day, so she noticed that the copycat had suddenly halted releases yesterday. Why it happened, Xu Chuanchuan did not know.


    When Xu Chuanchuan checked thement sections, onement immediately caught her attention: "Why did you stop updating, copycat? Did you run out of content to write because our Lord stopped updating? Also, what kind of dogshit are yourtest few chapters? You have the gall to write novels with such horrible writing and content? Ptui!"


    <em>It seems that my n worked. But should I start updating now?</em> Xu Chuanchuan faced a mental struggle. She was afraid that the copycat would shamelessly continue giarising her work as soon as she resumed updating. Yet, if she didn''t resume updates, she would feel sorry for her loyal readers.


    While Xu Chuanchuan was struggling over which action she should take, she suddenly received an internal message from jjwxc''s publishing editor, saying: "Hello, your work After Being Bent by Reader has met the conditions for physical publication. If you are willing to publish your book, please add my work QQ, and we can discuss the details."


    The message was only a few sentences long. Xu Chuanchuan also understood every word written. However, she still read the message numerous times, confusion filling her mind. Finding this situation incredulous, she took a screenshot of the message and sent it to Ange for further verification.


    Ange: "It''s real. Normally, if the tform''s publishing editor reaches out to you, there''s a 99% chance your book will receive a physical publication. Congrattions, you''ve finally gotten your wish."


    After receiving Ange''s verification, Xu Chuanchuan was overjoyed and immediately shared this good news with Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi was naturally happy for Xu Chuanchuan. Only, her excitement wasn''t as intense as Xu Chuanchuan''s.


    Xu Chuanchuan danced and screamed in joy. Only when she was done venting her emotions did she remember to add that editor''s QQ.


    After the publishing editor epted her friend request, the editor had her add another QQ ID, stating that it was the ount of a different publishing editor working with a publisher in Taiwan.


    The name of the publishing editor from Taiwan was Rosa. Xu Chuanchuan found the name to be familiar when she first saw it, but she didn''t think too much about it at the time because of her excitement. Then, she began conversing with Rosa with an anxious heart.


    When Rosa found out about Xu Chuanchuan''s hiatus, she asked for the text file of the unpublished chapters, stating that the editorial department needed them for reviewing.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''m sorry, Miss Editor, but I write and publish on the spot, so I don''t have any stockpile"


    Rosa: "You should at least have a general outline of the plot written, right? You can send that to me instead."


    Unfortunately, an outline of the plot...did not exist.


    After thinking for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan asked: "Do you need it immediately?"


    Rosa: "No, but it''d be best if I can get it as soon as possible. After all, the publication process is very long and tedious. The longer you drag things out, the more disadvantageous it will be for you."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Can I send it to you tonight?"


    Rosa: "No problem."


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that Taiwan used Traditional Chinese, so she initially thought there would be difficultymunicating with the editor from Taiwan. However, she didn''t think that things would progress so smoothly. Moreover, this editor was very kind to her, which made her feel at ease.


    After ending her conversation with the editor, Xu Chuanchuan ryed the news to Murong Shi. When Murong Shi heard Xu Chuanchuan mentioning Rosa''s name, her eyelids twitched a little.


    As luck would have it, Xu Chuanchuan noticed Murong Shi''s reaction. Then, she suddenly thought of something and asked, "Isn''t the designer you secretly metst time also called Rosa?"


    Quite some time had passed since that incident, so Murong Shi didn''t think Xu Chuanchuan would still remember it. After hesitating for a moment, she responded, "Mhm."


    Meanwhile, after hearing this response, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find the coincidence a little strange.


    At night, Xu Chuanchuan finished writing the general outline of her novel and decided to send it to Rosa. When sending the file, she identally clicked on Rosa''s profile and, to her surprise, she found out that the other party''s hometown was S City.


    <em>How many Rosas could there be in one city?</em> Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but grow curious. Then, she asked, "Miss Editor, are you from S City?"


    Rosa: "That''s right, I''m from S City. But I got married in Taiwan and got a job here."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What a coincidence! We''re from the same city!"


    Rosa: "I know that."


    Xu Chuanchuan was stunned by this reply. After all, she didn''t write her real information on her QQ profile. So, how did Rosa know that she lived in S City?


    <em>Maybe she checked out my Weibo?</em> Xu Chuanchuan felt a little embarrassed when she thought of this possibility. Then, she asked, "Did you check out my Weibo?"


    Rosa: "No. But now that you mention it, I seem to have forgotten to add you on Weibo. I''ll send you a friend request in a moment."


    <em>She didn''t? </em>Xu Chuanchuan was confused. "How did you find out I''m from S City, then?"


    Rosa: "Because I met your girlfriend two months ago."


    <em>Huh? How is this matter rted to Murong?</em>


    Xu Chuanchuan''s confusion grew even deeper, and she immediately started asking more about the matter. Eventually, she found out that this Rosa was the same Rosa that she mistook as Murong Shi''s affair partner


    By the time Murong Shi returned from the bathroom, Xu Chuanchuan had already turned off theputer and sat on the bed staring at her. After moving aside the hair that was blocking her vision, Murong Shi asked, "What are you looking at me like that for?"


    In response, Xu Chuanchuan stood up, took a few steps forward, and wrapped her arms around Murong Shi''s neck. Then, without saying anything, she stood on her toes and kissed Murong Shi.


    Murong Shi was surprised by Xu Chuanchuan''s sudden initiative. However, she quickly reacted to the situation, embraced her lover, and responded to the kiss.


    The two continued their passionate kiss until they ended up on the bed. When Murong Shi was about to take off Xu Chuanchuan''s pajamas, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly called to stop.


    Murong Shi stared at her lover in confusion.


    Meanwhile, with her arms still wrapped around Murong Shi''s neck, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and said, "I love you."


    "I love you too."


    "I really, really love you."


    "Me too."


    "I already found out about Rosa''s matter."


    Murong Shi wasn''t surprised by this revtion at all. After a slight pause, she said, "I''m sorry. I really didn''t mean to lie to you."


    Xu Chuanchuan''s smile gradually faded while her eyes reddened. Then, she choked a little as she said, "Thank you."


    Murong Shi panicked when she saw her lover''s watery eyes. "Why are you crying all of a sudden?"


    Xu Chuanchuan buried her head into Murong Shi''s breasts. After rubbing her head against the soft bundles for a moment, she said in a muffled voice, "These are tears of joy."


    Letting out a sigh of relief, Murong Shi patted the back of Xu Chuanchuan''s head and said, "It''s fine so long as you''re happy."


    After secretly wiping away her tears, Xu Chuanchuan looked up at Murong Shi and said, "Being with you is the most meaningful thing I have ever done in my life."


    In response, Murong Shi gently kissed the corners of Xu Chuanchuan''s watery eyes and tenderly said, "It''s the same for me."

 Chapter 104: Pt.1

    Chapter 104: Pt.1


    That evening, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had adopted an "in-depth"munication method to celebrate the uing publication of Xu Chuanchuan''s novel.


    Although the air conditioner kept the room warm, it also took away the moisture in the air. Murong Shi wanted to drag Xu Chuanchuan to the bathroom, but Xu Chuanchuan did not wish to move. So, Xu Chuanchuan clung onto Murong Shi''s body like a ko and hummed, "I don''t want to shower. I''m so tired."


    Murong Shi was already used to showering after sex. However, Xu Chuanchuan holding onto her prevented her from moving. So, Murong Shi let out a helpless smile and said, "I''m bingzier andzier the more time I spend with you."


    Rubbing her frizzy hair against Murong Shi''s breasts and neck, Xu Chuanchuan smiled and said, "Birds of a different feather don''t flock together."


    Murong Shi found Xu Chuanchuan''sment both funny and infuriating. After moving Xu Chuanchuan aside, she pulled out some tissue paper from the bedside table and carefully cleaned her and Xu Chuanchuan''s lower halves.


    After cleaning up, the two covered their bodies with the nket and started talking and reminiscing.


    "Rosa had already notified me in advance before she contacted you," Murong Shi said while helping Xu Chuanchuan tidy up her messy hair. "I did tell her that if the publishing firm refuses to help you to do a physical publication, I will do it at my own expense."


    "At your own expense?" Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi in astonishment. "Then, this time..."


    "I was also surprised," Murong Shi said, interrupting Xu Chuanchuan''s line of thought with a smile. "I have no part in the sessful deal this time. The publisher must''ve seen your talent."


    "What talent?" Xu Chuanchuan said, pursing her lips. However, despite her humility, she still felt delighted to hear Murong Shi''s praise. "Rosa told me that because this is my first publication and my poprity is subpar, the first print will only have a small volume. That also means I won''t be making much money."


    "Then, do you feel happy about it?"


    Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly nodded and said, "I don''t care about the money. I''ll be satisfied so long as I can publish my book."


    Now that web novels were bing more prevalent by the day, the status of web novel authors was gradually rising. Meanwhile, which novel author wouldn''t want their written work receiving physical publication? This was, after all, an affirmation of their ability.


    In the past, Xu Chuanchuan would always hear about Ange''s books receiving approval for physical publication, and she would always feel envious about it. Now that her turn had finally arrived, she was so excited that she thought she could fly.


    During their previous conversation, Xu Chuanchuan had also found out from Rosa that Murong Shi had indeed rmended her book. However, what really made the publishing firm agree to a physical publication was the two surges of poprity <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em> received. One of them was when Fragrant Citrus ndered the book, while the other was the recent giarism incident.


    Although these two incidents had brought Xu Chuanchuan''s book many point reductions and negativements, the book had also gained significant attention. Currently, even though the book was only halfpleted, it already had over 50,000 bookmarks. At this rate, the book would have over 100,000 bookmarks by the time Xu Chuanchuanpleted it.


    So far, only famous authors like Ange could achieve 100,000 bookmarks in the yuri genre. Hence, the publishing firm had decided to take a chance with <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em>.


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that her book wasn''t story-driven. However, Rosa mentioned that she liked such sweet romance novels a lot and that such books provided a healing effect when read.


    Rosa also mentioned that such works were typically popr among readers. However, as yuri novels had a small audience, only godlike works would receive physical publication most of the time.


    Apart from this, Rosa also mentioned that she had read Xu Chuanchuan''spleted novels and praised Xu Chuanchuan for her consistent writing style and themes. Because of this, if <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em> sold well, Xu Chuanchuan''s other books might be chosen for physical publication as well.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan dared not put much hope on her book selling well. She was satisfied so long as she could publish her book.


    Xu Chuanchuan was never greedy, and she could remain in a good mood for several days because of this good news. When Ange heard about her friend''s thoughts, she couldn''t help butugh and messaged her friend, saying: "You need to set your sights further. Who knows? Maybe you might be a best-selling author one day."


    <em>Best-selling author? What an intriguing title. </em>Xu Chuanchuan closed her eyes and let her imagination run wild for five minutes. Then, she opened her eyes and woke up from her dream.


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I heard from Murong that you''d moved in with Fang Qin?"


    Ange: "It''s only temporary. I''ll be flying home in a few days."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "So soon? When will you be leaving?"


    At this point, Ange still wasn''t sure when she would be leaving S City. However, she knew that she couldn''t stay here forever.


    Before Ange could think of an answer, she heard movementing from the door, so she hurriedly kept her phone away.


    When Fang Qin opened the door and saw that the room was pitch ck, she slowed down her actions and tried to make as little noise as possible.


    "It''s fine. I''m already awake," Ange said in the dark.


    Hearing this voice, Fang Qin immediately felt the fatigue she had umted during the morning vanishing instantly. Then, she turned on the lights and looked at the woman lyingzily on the bed, asking, "Why didn''t you turn on the lights?"


    "I''m helping you save on your electricity bill," Ange told a partial lie.


    Smiling, Fang Qin held up the bag of food in her hand and said, "Have you showered? I bought some food for you."


    During the few days Ange had moved in, Fang Qin continued going to work as usual. However, she would always excuse herself from the office during lunch break, saying that she wanted to go home and rest. In reality, though, she just wanted to spend more time with Ange.


    Apart from her housekeeper, Ange had never had others serve her like this before. Seeing Fang Qin busily setting up the tes and cleaning up the trash in the room, Ange couldn''t help but feel a little embarrassed. Then, she cleared her throat and said, "I initially nned to do some cleaning after waking up, but I didn''t expect to oversleep."


    Fang Qin turned to observe Ange''s face. After her eyes scanned Ange''s dehydrated lips and slightly reddened eyes, she said, "I saw that you weren''t sleeping wellst night, so I turned off your rm clock."


    "...So that''s why I didn''t hear it ringing."


    After setting up the dishes and tidying up the room, Fang Qin went to wash her hands and ate lunch together with Ange.


    Fang Qin had been buying nutritious fast food back home for lunch the past few days. Afraid that Ange would grow tired of the food, Fang Qin made sure to purchase different kinds of food every day. Now that it was winter, food would grow cold quickly. Fortunately, Fang Qin lived close to where she worked, so the food she brought back was still steaming when she opened their packaging.


    Fang Qin handed Ange a portion of radish sirloin soup.


    Meanwhile, Ange frowned when she saw the red dates in the soup. However, before she could react, a pair of chopsticks had appeared in front of her as Fang Qin dropped her portion of red dates into her bowl. Then, Fang Qin smiled and said, "Have some more."


    Ange furrowed her eyebrows even more. After hesitating for a moment, she decided to confess, saying, "I hate eating red dates."


    Fang Qin was momentarily taken aback. Then, she said, "I saw that yourplexion doesn''t look too well, so I wanted you to eat some more."


    After hearing this, there was no way Ange could remain ungrateful. So, she blocked the chopsticks attempting to reim the red dates in her bowl and said, "Since you''re doing this for my good, I''ll give you some face."


    "Don''t push yourself."


    To show that she wasn''t pushing herself, Ange picked up a red date and ate it. The date was sweet and melted in her mouth. Although its taste wasn''t to her liking, it wasn''t as uneptable as she imagined, either.


    "What are you looking at me for? You eat as well," Ange said.


    Looking down, Fang Qin faintly smiled and said, "Okay."


    Then, the two ate in silence.


    In reality, Ange had long since been starving. However, she couldn''t bring herself to eat too quickly. In addition, she could constantly feel Fang Qin''s scorching gaze on her body. The gaze was so intense that Ange felt as if Fang Qin was trying to eat her for lunch instead.


    Pausing for a moment, Ange looked up at Fang Qin and asked in annoyance, "Why do you keep looking at me?"


    Fang Qin did not bother concealing her emotions at all. While staring attentively and tenderly at Ange, she said, "You used to avoid me on purpose. Now that we are living together, I keep feeling that I can''t get enough of you."


    There was no straightforwardpliment or numbingly romantic words. Yet, Ange still felt her cheeks burning up when she heard Fang Qin''s words. After taking a sip of soup to hide her embarrassment, she said, "I think that it''s not good for me to trouble you so much every day."


    "I don''t think it''s troublesome at all," Fang Qin said. Taking advantage of Ange''s brief inattentiveness, she grabbed a piece of tender fish belly and put it into Ange''s rice bowl. Then, she said, "Every second and minute I get to spend with you makes me feel very happy."


    Ange felt her heart thumping loudly when faced with such a sudden confession. However, she maintained a calm expression on the surface and jokingly said, "You won''t be able to go to work if you spend every second and minute with me."


    "I did have such a thought before."


    "What thought?"


    "Your treatment of me keeps switching between hot and cold. Whenever I open my eyes and can''t see you next to me, I would always wonder if you ran away without saying a word."


    "..." Ange nearly bit her tongue when she heard Fang Qins'' words. Then, after calming herself, she said, "How could I possibly be so rotten?"


    Revealing a bitter smile, Fang Qin said, "You''re not rotten. I''m just afraid you might be too sober."


    Ange was speechless.


    Fang Qin quietly reached for Ange''s hand and held it. Then, looking into Ange''s eyes, Fang Qin earnestly and tentatively said, "Tang Xin, promise me that even if you want to leave, you have to tell me in advance so that I can be mentally prepared, okay?"


    If it weren''t for Fang Qin''s timely return today, Ange would''ve suspected that Fang Qin had seen the content of her conversation with Xu Chuanchuan.


    There was no doubt that Ange had to return to Shanghai one day. After all, her parents weren''t in S City. She also had three cats and one dog waiting for her at home. She had onlye to S City to seek temporary "shelter."


    However, when Ange saw Fang Qin looking at her with such a tender gaze, she felt as if a hammer had just struck her sturdy heart and left a small crack on it.


    With her heartbeat elerating, Ange quickly stuffed some rice into her mouth. Then, she nonchntly said, "It''s too cold outside, so I''m toozy to go out for now."


    It took a moment for Fang Qin to realize what Ange was trying to express. However, as soon as she understood Ange''s words, joy surfaced on her face. Then, she picked up her chopsticks again and said, "Eat more."

 Chapter 104: Pt.2

    Chapter 104: Pt.2


    After lunch, Fang Qin drove back to her workce once more.


    Meanwhile, after Fang Qin left, Angezed around the room for some time and fed the fish some food. Eventually, after growing bored out of her mind, she changed out of her pajamas, grabbed her purse and phone, and left the apartment.


    Many shops were located near the apartmentplex, so Ange did some window-shopping before she found herself arriving at the cinema she had visited with Fang Qin some days ago. Then, when she recalled the things that happened that day, she couldn''t help but smile.


    Ange hadn''t worn a lot when she left the apartment, so she quickly fled into a shopping mall after a cold wind hit her.


    Shopping alone was very dull, so Ange spent less than half an hour inside the mall before leaving it. However, while her trip inside was brief, her harvest was bountiful. After spending over 2,000 yuan, she bought a portable oven and a bunch of baking ingredients. Then, she hailed a taxi and returned home.


    Fang Qin got off work at 5 PM. After clocking out for the day, she gave Ange a call and asked what her girlfriend wanted for dinner.


    After pondering for a moment, Ange hesitantly responded with a question, "Do you like cakes?"


    Fang Qin was puzzled by the question. However, she still honestly answered, "I''m fine with cake. Why? Do you want to eat some?"


    "I...I''m already full. It''d be a waste to throw these away, so how about youe home and deal with them?"


    "What do you mean?"


    Half an hourter


    Fang Qin arrived back at her apartment. Upon opening the door, a sweet aroma immediately entered her nostrils. The smell came from the apartment''s small kitchen. Without even taking off her coat, Fang Qin strode over to the kitchen to take a look. Then, what she saw made her gape in shock.


    "What are you doing?" Fang Qin asked in astonishment.


    Typically, as Fang Qin didn''t use the kitchen of her one-bedroom apartment for cooking, the ce was kept clean at all times. Now, though, it looked as if a storm had hit the ce. Not only was the kitchen counter cluttered with items, but baking flour and eggshells were also scattered all over the ce. Currently, Ange was even picking up some fallen eggshells on the ground.


    "I was feeling bored by myself, so I thought of baking some cakes and cookies. I didn''t think my skills would be so terrible, though, so my first experiment ended up a failure," Ange said as she tossed the eggshells into the trash can. Then, she held up a te ofsomething and said, "This will be my dinner. Although the appearance is terrible, the taste is still not bad. Do you want to try some?"


    "Sure," Fang Qin replied without hesitation.


    "Take it outside to eat, then," Ange said as she passed the te to Fang Qin.


    Fang Qin reached for the te but stopped halfway. Then, she opened her palms and said, "I haven''t washed my hands yet."


    "Go wash them, then."


    Fang Qin did not move. Instead, she said, "I''m starving. I want to eat it now, so feed it to me."


    <em>How long do you need to wash your hands?</em> Despite knowing Fang Qin was doing it on purpose, Ange couldn''t resist her girlfriend''s coquettish tone. So, she took off her gloves, picked up a piece of cake with her clean hand, and fed it to Fang Qin.


    After Fang Qin took two bites, Ange passed the te to her and awkwardly said, "You take your time eating. I still have something to do."


    Standing by the kitchen doorway, Fang Qin asked, "What else do you need to do?"


    Ange resumed studying a pastry-making recipe she received when buying the oven. Then, without looking up, she said, "I''m thinking of baking some cookies for my readers."


    "Why this all of a sudden?" Fang Qin asked in confusion.


    Shrugging, Ange said, "I''m free anyway. I might as well treat it as a pastime."


    Fang Qin took a few steps into the kitchen. Then, looking at Ange''s earnest face, Fang Qin asked, "Do you feel bored here?"


    Ange looked up when she sensed Fang Qin closing in on her. Then, after pondering for a moment, she said, "Actually, I''m not doing this because I''m bored. When I was still living in Shanghai, I promised to give my readers some homemade cookies, though I never found the time to do it."


    Fang Qin''s frown loosened. Then, she smiled and jokingly said, "I''m your reader as well. I''m even the ardent type."


    After learning that Ange was a novel author, Fang Qin had downloaded jjwxc''s mobile application under Murong Shi''s guidance. She visited Ange''s ongoing novel every day and left long reviews. Unfortunately, none of her actions managed to catch Ange''s notice.


    Afterward, Fang Qin found Ange''s Weibo and saw the pinned post sharing the purchasing method for the physical copies of Ange''s books. Ange had published over a dozen books over the years, and Fang Qin bought a copy of every one of them without hesitation. She even bought a bookshelf specifically to hold Ange''s books.


    When Ange moved in with Fang Qin and saw that bookshelf, she was both shocked and touched.


    Upon recalling this little detail, Ange generously said, "I''ll give you a share once I''ve baked them."


    Fang Qin set the te in her hands and stared into Ange''s eyes. Then, she frankly said, "I don''t want the cookies. I only want you."


    "...Wait until I''m done here."


    Fang Qin and Ange''s "cohabitation" life appeared to be very fulfilling. Afraid to disturb the new couple, Xu Chuanchuan reduced her contact with Ange.


    At the end of January, Linda and her husband held their wedding in one of S City''s five-star hotels, and they invited Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi to participate.


    The matter of bing the bridesmaid was only a lie Murong Shi and Linda concocted to trick Xu Chuanchuan into trying on wedding dresses. Without the need to be a bridesmaid, Xu Chuanchuan got to rx and enjoy the wedding together with Murong Shi.


    Seated at the same table as the two were their colleagues from thepany. However, none of their colleagues knew of their rtionship. And as nobody at the table dared to joke around with Murong Shi, they set their sights on Xu Chuanchuan instead.


    "Little Xu, when do you and your boyfriend n on getting married?" someone asked.


    Xu Chuanchuan naturally didn''t have a boyfriend. The thing about her having a boyfriend was merely an excuse she made up to shut the mouths of her colleagues. Faced with her colleague''s question, Xu Chuanchuan calmly said, "We n to take our time on this."


    "Matters of marriage cannot be rushed. Little Xu is only 26 this year, so she still has plenty of time to consider," Chen Lina said.


    Then, the gossip-loving Xu Xiaomei asked, "By the way, why have I never seen your boyfriending to pick you up at thepany?"


    "That''s because...hispany transferred him to Shanghai."


    "Doesn''t that mean you''re in a long-distance rtionship?" In an anxious tone, Xu Xiaomei said, "Long-distance rtionships are risky. Little Xu, you have to pay close attention to him. Otherwise, some other woman might steal him away..."


    While Xu Xiaomei was speaking, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly felt Murong Shi tightly holding her hand under the table. As Murong Shi''s grip was a little too strong, the rings they wore rubbed against each other, hurting Xu Chuanchuan a little. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan didn''t feel ufortable. Instead, she happily said, "Thank you. I won''t let him get away."


    The wedding reached its climax when the bride and groom embraced and kissed each other passionately after taking the oath. Then, the guests stood up and apuded the two in congrattions. Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi also stood up. However, as both of them were reluctant to release each other''s hands, they each held up their free hand and pped.


    As everyone''s attention was on the bride and groom on the stage, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi didn''t have to worry about others seeing their strange behavior.


    When Murong Shi turned to look at Xu Chuanchuan and saw that her lover was moved to tears, she inwardly sighed inmentation. Then, she leaned into Xu Chuanchuan''s ear and said, "We''ll also be as happy as them."


    As the Lunar New Year approached, Xu Chuanchuan grew more and more nervous. Rosa was also urging her to write her novel every day, so Xu Chuanchuan dared not ck off for even a moment. However, as writing was something enjoyable to her, it didn''t contribute much to her stress. Instead, the main thing that worried her was that she would have to face her father again when she returned home for the Lunar New Year.


    After such a long time had passed, Father Xu''s attitude toward them remained the same. Xu Chuanchuan knew that her father wouldn''t listen to anything she said, so she decided to stop persuading him altogether. As a result, the two of them had entered a cold war.


    Ange had to return to Shanghai to celebrate the Lunar New Year with her family. Before leaving S City, she shared a meal with the usual group.


    "When will you being over again?" Xu Chuanchuan secretly asked as they left the restaurant.


    "I won''t being unless something importantes up," Ange casually replied.


    "What about Fang Qin? Can you bear to be apart from her?"


    Ange stopped talking.


    Later on, Fang Qin personally drove Ange to the airport.


    Nobody knew if it was because of the sadness of parting, but Fang Qin and Ange hardly talked to each other throughout the 40-minute ride, both of them isted to their respective thoughts.


    When saying goodbye at the airport, the calm facade Fang Qin wore finally crumbled. Just as Ange was about to make her way to the security checkpoint, Fang Qin dragged her into the restroom. Then, the two of them squeezed into a narrow stall and hugging and kissing each other.


    Both of them were panting for air when their lips separated. Afraid of being heard by others, Fang Qin leaned into Ange''s ear and whispered, "I''ll go find you when I have time."


    "For what?" Ange asked with a mirthful smile.


    Then, Fang Qin bit on Ange''s ear and said in a threatening tone, "Don''t forget; you already promised to be my girlfriend that night. You''re not allowed to flirt with anyone else in the future."

 Chapter 105: Pt.1

    Chapter 105: Pt.1


    Ever since Murong Shi took over, thepany''s performance and revenue had been improving by the day. Every employee''s work volume had also increased, and thepany''s Lunar New Year holidays had been reduced from two weeks to just eight days this year. As soon as the holidays began, Xu Chuanchuan immediately made her way back to Xian City.


    However, Father Xu still wore an unfriendly face when Xu Chuanchuan met him. Even so, Xu Chuanchuan still toughened up her courage to greet her father.


    Then, to Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Father Xu indifferently looked at Xu Chuanchuan and said, "Your mother has ced some dumplings in the freezer. You and your little sister can reheat them if you''re hungry."


    This was the first time Father Xu had taken the initiative to say something to Xu Chuanchuan since their cold war began, so Xu Chuanchuan got so excited that she broke down in tears. She also shared the good news with Murong Shi on that same night.


    Murong Shi was also happy to hear the news. Then, she asked, "Which day does your family normally visit your rtives on?"


    "The second and third day."


    "Then, I''ll head to your house on the fourth."


    Long beforeing out of the closet, Xu Chuanchuan had already considered bringing Murong Shi back to meet her parents. Hence, she was more than willing to have Murong Shi join her in Xian City. However, she was also afraid to trouble Murong Shi because of Father Xu''s current attitude.


    "My father is still the same as before."


    "Then, all the more reason for me to go."


    On New Year''s Eve, every family in the neighborhood set off fireworks and firecrackers, giving the area the air of Lunar New Year. Father Xu, Mother Xu, Grandpa Xu, and Grandma Zhang sat in the living room and watched the Spring Festival G. Meanwhile, Xu Xiangxiang was secretly hosting a live stream in her room. As for Xu Chuanchuan, she had also locked herself in her own room and held a video chat with Murong Shi.


    The curtains weren''t drawn, so Murong Shi could see the fireworks going on outside through the video chat. Then, she said, "It''s been nearly 20 years since I yed with fireworks."


    During the conversation, Xu Xiangxiang knocked on the door and asked, "Sis, do you want to set off some fireworks? Yuanyuan and Quanyuan are waiting downstairs.


    Yuanyuan and Quanquan were the daughter and son of Xu Chuanchuan''s cousin brother. The two were lively children, so Xu Chuanchuan disliked ying with them. She was the opposite of Xu Xiangxiang, who could have fun with anyone.


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t be bothered to move from her bed, so she said, "I''m not going; you guys have fun. And make sure to be careful."


    After shooing Xu Xiangxiang away, Xu Chuanchuan resumed her conversation with Murong Shi. When she thought about how Murong Shi would be visiting her home in a few days, she couldn''t help but feel a headache. So, she discussed with Murong Shi how they should handle the situation.


    Currently, Mother Xu''s stance on their rtionship was neutral, so they only had to focus on pleasing Father Xu.


    On the first day of the Lunar New Year, Xu Chuanchuan woke up before Mother Xu even came to knock on her door. After washing up, she left her room for breakfast while holding three big red packets in her hands.


    The three red packets contained Xu Chuanchuan''s one-month sry plus her two-month annual bonus. She did not save even a cent for herself, and she gave the red packets to her parents and grandfather.


    When Mother Xu opened up her red packet and saw its content, she said, "You already gave us 30,000 thest time you came home. There''s no need to give us so much this time."


    Smiling, Xu Chuanchuan said, "Mypany will be distributing our sries again after the holidays. This money is just to show my respect for you."


    Mother Xu had already found out about Xu Chuanchuan''s side job as a novel author, so she didn''t continue refusing the money. Then, after keeping the red packet, she said to her quiet husband, "Look at how filial your daughter is. Stop wearing that ugly face already."


    However, Father Xu remained silent. Only after finishing his meal did he pick up the thick red packet. Then, he said, "No matter how wealthy their family is, you need to make sure not to get taken advantage of lest you get looked down upon by others. You don''t need to send money back every month from now on. Save some for yourself as well."


    Mother Xu had said such wordsst time as well. However, Xu Chuanchuan felt much happier when she heard her father saying them. Even though today was a festive day, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but have the urge to cry.


    Although Father Xu didn''t specify his words, Xu Chuanchuan knew that the "others" Father Xu spoke of referred to Murong Shi. His tone when speaking had also softened significantly.


    <em>Is this apromise?</em>


    It probably wasn''t. However, since Father Xu had already said so much, Xu Chuanchuan still looked at the situation positively. At least she knew her father still couldn''t bear to sever rtions with her.


    Sometimeter, Mother Xu said, "Your father might be stubborn and has a bad temper, but how could he be so cruel as to disown you?"


    In reality, Father Xu had loved Xu Chuanchuan very much when she was young. However, after Xu Xiangxiang appeared, the family''s financial burden had increased substantially. Hence, Father Xu became busier and ended up ignoring Xu Chuanchuan. Father Xu might not be good with words, but he had always cared for her in his heart. Because of this care, Xu Chuanchuan felt terrible when she was waging a cold war with her father.


    On the Lunar New Year''s fourth day, Xu Chuanchuan went downstairs early in the morning to wee Murong Shi. The two had missed each other a bit after being separated for several days. However, due to their environment, they dared not act too intimate with each other.


    While helping Murong Shi with her luggage, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Nervous?"


    "A little," Murong Shi said with a light smile.


    Pretending to be surprised, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "You actually know how to be nervous?"


    "I''m always nervous whenever I meet your parents. I barely got any sleepst night," Murong Shi said, sighing.


    At this mention, Xu Chuanchuan noticed that there were indeed dark circles under Murong Shi''s eyes, so she decided to hug her lover.


    The one feeling the most awkward regarding Murong Shi''s arrival was naturally Father Xu. However, when he tried to flee from the house, Mother Xu stopped him and said, "Little Shi is our guest. She has also brought you so many presents. Even If you don''t cherish them, shouldn''t you treat her to some stir-fry?"


    Mother Xu typically took care of all of the household chores. This naturally included cooking. The reason why she said so to Father Xu was just to remind her husband to show Murong Shi some face.


    After hesitating for a moment, Father Xu took off his sandals and gloomily entered the kitchen.


    Father Xu cooked all of the food for lunch that day. Although the dishes were nothing extraordinary, Murong Shi felt that they tasted better than dishes made by chefs of five-star hotels. She also wasn''t stingy with her praises as she said, "Uncle, your cooking is really good."


    "They''re nothing special. Eat more if you find them good," Father Xu awkwardly said.


    "Thank you, Uncle."


    Fortunately, Mother Xu was rather enthusiastic. Pointing at the te of fried bamboo shoots and cured meat, she said, "I dug up these bamboo shoots myself, while the cured meat is a specialty of our hometown. Give it a try."


    Murong Shi offered another praise after taking a bite.


    "I prepared a lot of the cured meat this year. Bring some back to your parents when you go home."


    "Thank you, Auntie."


    Murong Shi remained in the Xu household until the day before thepany holidays ended. During this time, Xu Chuanchuan took her on a tour around Xian City.


    Because Murong Shi had enjoyed herself so much, she hadpletely forgotten to report back to her family. Eventually, Murong Mingshu got so anxious that she called over, asking, "How are Chuanchuan''s parents treating you? Did things go smoothly? If not, should Aunt Lian and I visit them? I think it''ll be easier for us elders tomunicate."


    Murong Shi didn''t know whether tough or cry when she heard her mother''s words. Then, she said, "You just need to deal with Dad. Chuanchuan and I will take care of things here."

 Chapter 105: Pt.2

    Chapter 105: Pt.2


    "You just need to deal with Dad. Chuanchuan and I will take care of things here," Murong Shi said.


    As the head of the family, Sun An was thest hurdle Murong Shi and Xu Chuanchuan needed to cross.


    On the night after the two returned to work, they paid a visit to the Murong household.


    Sun An was also present when they arrived. And when they ate, Xu Chuanchuan could feel Sun An staring at her with a strange look. To Xu Chuanchuan''s surprise, Sun An even started asking about her parents. Although Xu Chuanchuan truthfully answered the man, she couldn''t help but find the situation strange.


    After returning to the room, Murong Shi told Xu Chuanchuan that Sun An had already found out about their rtionship. Hence, he had asked such detailed questions during dinner.


    Xu Chuanchuan was shocked by this revtion.


    It turned out that during their visit to Xian City, Murong Mingshu had already found a suitable opportunity to reveal everything to Sun An. As to what the husband and wife discussed exactly, only they knew themselves. However, judging by Sun An''s attitude today, he had probably epted Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi''s rtionship. Regardless if he had done so willingly, he had not voiced any objections at the very least.


    "It seems your father isn''t as unreasonable as you make him out to be," Xu Chuanchuan said, recalling Murong Shi mentioning that Sun An had pped her.


    "It''s all thanks to my mother''s efforts."


    Xu Chuanchuan was confused.


    "Ever since my brother died, my dad has been very sorry for my mom. So, he will listen to whatever my mom says," Murong Shi said. Then, after a slight pause, she continued, "If my mom likes someone, he must like them, too."


    With that, both their parents were finally dealt with.


    Now that Xu Chuanchuan no longer had any concerns, she could focus her attention on writing. She worked in the office during the day and wrote her novel at night. She lived a very fulfilling life.


    Afraid of dying the publication process, Rosa had asked Xu Chuanchuan to finish <em>After Being Bent by Reader </em>within a month. So, Xu Chuanchuan dared not ck off for even a moment.


    Eventually, after striving for a month, Xu Chuanchuan sent the documents containing 500,000 characters to Rosa.


    Half a yearter, <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em> was officially released in Taiwan. On the day of release, Xu Chuanchuan asked the publisher for a few copies to use as gifts for friends. She also saved a copy for herself tomemorate the asion.


    Apart from making preparations for her book''s publication, Xu Chuanchuan had alsopleted another novel during the past six months. Although the new book''s performance wasn''tparable to the previous one, it still raked considerable profits.


    Many things happened during the past six months, and they varied fromrge to small. However, there was one matter that was carved deeply into Xu Chuanchuan''s mind.


    One day, Xu Xiangxiang happened across Xu Chuanchuan''s pen name and downloaded jjwxc''s app to start reading her elder sister''s ongoing novel. Whenever she finished reading thetest chapter, she would send her elder sister a message asking for spoilers, annoying Xu Chuanchuan greatly.


    At one point, Xu Chuanchuan got fed up with her little sister''s questions, so she simply sent her story''s entire plotline to Xu Xiangxiang. When Xu Xiangxiang finished reading the plotline and found out about the story''s development and ending, she thoroughly lost interest in the book and stopped pestering Xu Chuanchuan.


    In the meantime, Xu Xiangxiang and Little Yan''s rtionship remained excellent. When either of them was bored, they would invite each other out for shopping. If it was the weekend, Little Yan would even invite Xu Xiangxiang to her house for a meal.


    Little Yan''s bedroom was primarily pink in color. As soon as Xu Xiangxiang entered the room, she could smell a sweet, fruity fragrance. The room had a very girlish aura. After inspecting the room, Xu Xiangxiang enviously said, "When I have money in the future, I''m going to decorate my room just like yours."


    Little Yan smiled but did not make anyments.


    As the two were tired from shopping, theyid on the bed and fiddled with their phones.


    Little Yan thought Xu Xiangxiang was ying games on her phone. However, when she leaned closer to take a look, she couldn''t help but be surprised and asked, "You''re reading novels as well? What are you reading?"


    Naturally, Xu Xiangxiang, with her big mouth, exposed her elder sister''s side job to Little Yan without hesitation.


    After listening to Xu Xiangxiang''s words, Little Yan had a look of worship on her face as she said, "Chuanchuan is amazing!"


    "It''s quite good. Do you want to read it together?"


    "Okay, okay!" Little Yan excitedly said. However, after reading only a few chapters, she gave up and said, "No good. It feels so awkward."


    "Don''t you think it''s loving and cute for two sweet and soft girls to be together?"


    Revealing a polite smile, Little Yan said, "...I think I''ll continue reading my BL."


    Xu Xiangxiang couldn''t understand why Little Yan preferred to read about a love story between two men. When she tried to read the book Little Yan rmended, she couldn''t read more than a few chapters no matter how hard she tried. In contrast, she couldn''t get enough of Xu Chuanchuan''s novels.


    Then, after finishing the third book, Xu Xiangxiang suddenly realized that something was amiss with herself.


    Xu Xiangxiang had been distracted a lot in sstely, her mind constantly thinking of the sultry scenes described in the novels she read. She would often imagine herself as one of the heroines and Little Yan as the other. Moreover, she didn''t find anything wrong in doing so, either. She had even imagined herself hugging and kissing Little Yan. Then, when she recalled the fruity fragrance that filled the girl''s room, she couldn''t help but wonder if Little Yan''s lips also tasted as such...


    Xu Xiangxiang was frightened when this thought surfaced in her mind. Eventually, though, she could no longer keep down her thoughts and decided to message Xu Chuanchuan on WeChat, saying: "Sis, I think I''m bent."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "What did you say???"


    Xu Xiangxiang: "I think I got bent after reading your novel I keep wanting to find a girlfriend."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "."


    Xu Xiangxiang: "Do you think Little Yan will agree if I confess to her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan: ""


    Unfortunately, before Xu Xiangxiang got to confess, Little Yan came running to her in joy and shyly said, "Xiangxiang, the secretary in my club invited me out for a movie yesterday, and he...he confessed to me. I already agreed to be his girlfriend."


    "..." Xu Xiangxiang felt as if a bolt of lightning had just struck her.


    With just a few simple words, Little Yan had instantly crushed Xu Xiangxiang''s budding love. Overwhelmed by sadness, Xu Xiangxiang ended up running to Xu Chuanchuan and crying for a long time.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt heartbroken and helpless for Xu Xiangxiang, and she consoled her little sister for a long time.


    After Xu Xiangxiang left, Xu Chuanchuan did a self-reflection and felt that this situation was her fault. If she had known something like this would happen, she would''ve tried harder to keep her pen name a secret from Xu Xiangxiang. Now, because of her carelessness, she had ended up bending her little sister.


    However, after giving the matter some more thought, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but find the situation to be ridiculous. Xu Xiangxiang had clearly liked boys before, so how could she get bent after reading just three yuri novels?


    "If you can bend yourself with your writing, why can''t she get bent from reading your writing?" Murong Shi nonchntly stated.


    "..." Xu Chuanchuan had no words to refute.


    During the past half a year, Ange had remained in Shanghai the whole time. Although they didn''t get to meet each other in person, Xu Chuanchuan still maintained contact with Ange like always.


    Since <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em>''s physical publication sold well, Xu Chuanchuan sessfully got a contract for another book. As shecked experience in book publication, Ange had provided her with a lot of help.


    One day, Xu Chuanchuan suddenly thought of something and said: "My editor sent me a message this morning telling me to attend this year''s Author''s Conference. I''m hesitating on whether I should attend."


    Ange: "Why not? It''s a good opportunity."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Did you attendst year''s conference, then?"


    Ange: "I''m toozy. [Shrug]"


    Xu Chuanchuan: "I''ll go if you go. I don''t know any other author, so I won''t know what to do even if I attend."


    Ange: "Let''s go together, then. It''s been half a year since we met. I miss you quite a lot already."


    In the whole of jjwxc''s tform, Xu Chuanchuan was nowhere close to being considered a bestselling author. If one solely looked at reader count, Xu Chuanchuan wouldn''t be qualified to attend the Author''s Conference. The only reason why she got invited was that her two most recent books performed well and even received approval for physical publication. Hence, her editor in jjwxc had high hopes for her.


    With that, the matter of attending the Author''s Conference was settled.


    Before leaving for the conference, Xu Chuanchuan asked: "How long has it been since you and Fang Qin met?"


    Ange: "It''s been almost a month now."


    Xu Chuanchuan: "Don''t you find your long-distance rtionship tiring?"


    Ange did not answer.

 Chapter 106: Pt.1

    Chapter 106: Pt.1


    There were only a few days left before Xu Chuanchuan had to leave for Beijing. Yet, she didn''t know what she should prepare for the trip.


    The JJWXC Author''s Conference was held once every three years, and those capable of receiving an invite were all authors with acknowledged skill. This was the first time Xu Chuanchuan was attending the Author''s Conference, so it was inevitable for her to be nervous. When she searched for videos of past conferences, she found that attending authors would have to walk down the red carpet.


    Moreover, from the videos Xu Chuanchuan saw, all authors attending the event arrived in formal wear. Naturally, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t lose out to them, so she had Murong Shi apany her to buy a dress.


    Xu Chuanchuan chose a simple princess dress for the event, and wearing it made her look several years younger. She also bought a pair of high heels to match her dress. And to familiarize herself with the heels, she even wore them while at home.


    While watching Xu Chuanchuan practice walking, Murong Shimented, "You should bring a shoulder bag with you. It''ll help hide your anxiety."


    Xu Chuanchuan would start clenching her fists whenever she got nervous, so she found Murong Shi''s suggestion excellent.


    After practicing for a few more minutes, Xu Chuanchua got tired and took off her shoes to rest. Then, when she sat down and saw Murong Shi rummaging through the wardrobe, she asked, "What are you looking for?"


    A momentter, Murong Shi closed the wardrobe door and held a ck dress in her hand. Then, she asked, "How do you think I would look in this?"


    "You''ll look beautiful."


    "Then, you''ll wear white while I''ll wear ck."


    Blinking her eyes in confusion, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "What do you mean?"


    Murong Shi walked over to Xu Chuanchuan with the dress in hand. Then, she said, "I can''t help but worry about letting you go to a distant ce by yourself."


    "You want to go with me?"


    "Mhm."


    Xu Chuanchuan was naturally happy that Murong Shi was willing to apany her. However, as Murong Shi wasn''t one of jjwxc''s authors, she didn''t receive an invitation. Hence, she would have to pay for her ne ticket and hotel amodation out of her own pockets.


    Before leaving for Beijing, Xu Chuanchuan had asked if she wanted to join them. That way, Fang Qin would get to meet Ange. Unfortunately, Fang Qin declined the offer as she was too busy with work.


    After the nended in Beijing, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi made their way straight to the hotel.


    Jjwxc had reserved a hotel room for every invited author. However, to save money, thepany only reserved standard double rooms. Knowing this, Ange had secretly asked her editor to arrange for her to be in the same room as Xu Chuanchuan. Only, Ange didn''t think that Murong Shi would follow Xu Chuanchuan to Beijing.


    Murong Shi had reserved a muchrger room in the same hotel. After she and Xu Chuanchuan set down their luggage, they went to meet up with Ange.


    Jjwxc had arranged a buffet dinner for its authors. However, as Murong Shi didn''t like crowded ces, she called for room service and had the hotel bring their meal to their room.


    After having dinner and showering, Xu Chuanchuan went to find Ange again to discuss tomorrow''s matters.


    The Author''s Conference began the next day.


    Murong Shi woke up Xu Chuanchuan early in the morning to dress up and prepare for the red carpet event.


    The event venue was set to be at the hotel''s first floor, and the organizers had long sinceid the red carpet. Whenever an author stepped onto the red carpet, there would be someone announcing the author''s name and their works. Xu Chuanchuan saw many heavyweight authors walking down the red carpet. When these authors appeared, their fans standing on the sidelines would fervently scream and wave the signs they held.


    This sight dumbfounded Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she secretly asked Ange, "Are these actual fans? Or did the tform hire them?"


    The exaggerated reactions of these fans made the authors look like they were Hollywood celebrities.


    "There''s no way the tform is willing to spend money for that. They should be actual fans," Ange replied.


    Bestselling authors had a gigantic fanbase, so it wouldn''t be surprising to see a few overenthusiastic fans.


    Meanwhile, after looking around for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Could any of your readers be here as well?"


    Ange shrugged and expressed her ignorance.


    Afraid that she would get stage fright, Xu Chuanchuan decided to proceed as a group with Ange. After waiting for several minutes for their turn, Xu Chuanchuan took deep breaths and stepped onto the red carpet hand in hand with Ange.


    As soon as they stepped onto the red carpet, the MC introduced them, saying, "Walking to us now are the yuri authors Ange and I Love Mtang! Ange''s representative work is <em>The End of the World</em>..."


    Suddenly, a fervent scream came from outside the red carpet, "Ahhh!!! It''s Lord An!!! Lord An, you''re so beautiful! I love you! I''m your diehard fan!!!"


    The fan screamed so loudly that she frightened everyone nearby.


    Hearing the screaming girl''s words, Xu Chuanchuan turned to look at Ange and said, "See? Your fans are here."


    Ange chuckled.


    After the small interlude, they sessfully walked across the red carpet. Then, one of the staff members led them to the event hall.


    The so-called Author''s Conference was nothing more than an event to summarize and acknowledge the work of authors. Because Ange had sold the film rights to many of her novels, she received a Film and Television Copyright Award. She was even invited for an interview.


    Due to therge number of fans attending the event this year, the organizers arranged a fan interaction session near the end of the event.


    As soon as the doors to the banquet hall opened, a crowd of fans swarmed into the hall and rushed up to their favorite authors.


    Xu Chuanchuan was in the midst of studying the trophy Ange won when she noticed people appearing around her. When she looked up, she saw four girls appearing within close proximity of her, so she subconsciously took a step back.


    Then, in the blink of an eye, the four girls surrounded Ange.


    "Lord An! I''m Fanxi of the North! I''ve been leaving youments every day! Do you remember me?"


    "Lord An, I''m Baby Guo Qianzhong! Please remember my face!"


    "Lord An, I''m Adorable telet!"


    "Lord An, I''m Lord of Gastric Colic!"


    The four girls scrambled to report their nicknames to Ange, startling Ange. Then, after calming down, Ange scrutinized the four people in front of her and happily said, "Why are you here?"


    "Baby Guo Qianzhong and I go to school in Beijing. When we found out you would be attending, we decided toe to see you," Fanxi of the North said.


    "That''s right, that''s right! I''m a university freshman this year. I didn''t expect to see Lord An as soon as I came to Beijing! I''m so happy!" Baby Guo Qianzhong said.


    "Lord An, I''m a resident of Beijing. You are wee to visit my house. My mom is good at cooking," Adorable telet said.


    "L-Lord An, I had a one-night stand with you before..." Lord of Gastric Colic timidly said.


    Fanxi of the North: "A one-night stand?!"


    Baby Guo Qianzhong: "OMG, what did you say???"


    Adorable telet: "What''s a one-night stand?"


    Several pairs of eyes swept over to Lord of Gastric Colic, causing the girl to blush. Then, the girl stammered to defend herself, "Don''t get me wrong... I mean that I''m also writing yuri and that I added Lord An as a friend before. Afterward...there was no more afterward..."


    Ange was given a scare when she heard the words "one-night stand." For a moment, she couldn''t help but suspect that she had suffered from memory loss in the past and had forgotten about her romantic debts. Fortunately, that wasn''t the case. Then, after letting out a sigh of relief, Ange turned to look for Xu Chuanchuan.


    "What are you doing there?"


    Hearing Ange''s words, the four girls finally noticed Xu Chuanchuan''s existence. Then, Fanxi of the North asked in an uncertain tone, "Are you Lord Mtang?"


    "Hi, how are you?" Xu Chuanchuan greeted the four girls with an awkward smile.


    The four girls were all Ange''s fans, so they knew that Ange shared a good rtionship with Xu Chuanchuan. Hence, they politely greeted Xu Chuanchuan even though they weren''t her fans.


    Xu Chuanchuan found her presence to be redundant here, so she said to Ange, "You girls continue chatting. I''ll head back to my room first."


    "Lord, don''t go yet. My friend is in the restroom. She''ll cry if she finds out she missed you," Fanxi of the North said.


    Stunned, Xu Chuanchuan asked, "Your friend?"


    "Yeah!" Fanxi of the North nodded. Then, she quickly said, "She''s my roommate, and she likes your novels very much. But she suddenly had a stomach ache when we arrived, so she went to the restroom. Can you please wait for her?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t think that one of her fans woulde to meet her. Delighted by this news, she smiled and said, "Okay."


    After waiting for a dozen minutes or so, the aforementioned fan finally appeared. Seeing the other party''s paleplexion, Xu Chuanchuan offered her a cup of warm water.


    "Thank you," the girl weakly said.


    Xu Chuanchuan still dared not believe that one of her fans hade to meet her. So, she quietly asked, "Can you tell me your nickname?"


    After taking a gulp of water, the sickly girl said, "It''s Inverse Sign."


    Xu Chuanchuan racked her brain for a long time but failed to remember such a name.


    Seeing the perplexed look on Xu Chuanchuan''s face, Inverse Sign said, "I''ve read every one of your novels, but I usually prefer stalking in the background instead of leavingments."


    Realization dawned on Xu Chuanchuan. Then, she asked, "Shouldn''t you go buy some medicine?"


    "I''ll do itter," Inverse Sign said. Then, she took out a book from her bag and said, "I like <em>After Being Bent by Reader </em>the most. I brought the book with me, so can you please sign it for me?"


    "Certainly," Xu Chuanchuan happily replied before eloquently signing the book with her pen name.


    After happily keeping the book back into her bag, Inverse Sign changed the conversation topic and asked, "Lord, did youe here alone?"


    "No, there is still..."


    "There is still me," a voiceing from behind interrupted Xu Chuanchuan.


    When Xu Chuanchuan turned around and saw Murong Shi walking over, she smiled and asked, "Weren''t you supposed to be waiting in the room?"


    Murong Shi walked over and naturally held Xu Chuanchuan''s hand. Then, she said, "It''s boring without you around."


    Inverse Sign found herself instantly attracted by Murong Shi''s beauty, and she fell into a daze for a long time.


    Worried that Murong Shi''s habit of getting jealous was acting up again, Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly introduced Inverse Sign, saying, "She is one of my readers."


    "Hello," Murong Shi greeted the girl and stretched out her hand.


    Murong Shi''s slender white hand looked soft and boneless, and it looked even more attractive than a hand model''s hand. Inverse Sign secretly gulped at the sight. Then, after rubbing her right hand on her pants, she hesitantly reached out and shook Murong Shi''s hand, saying, "H-Hello."


    Smiling, Murong Shi said, "Thank you for supporting my girlfriend."


    "Girlfriend?" Inverse Sign''s eyes widened. "C-Could you p-perhaps be...Tycoon Shi?"


    "Mhm."


    "Heavens!" Inverse Sign eximed before hurriedly covering her mouth. Then, after scanning Murong Shi from top to bottom, she said, "You''re so beautiful! Can I take a picture with you two?"


    Xu Chuanchuan looked toward Murong Shi and asked for her lover''s permission with her eyes.


    "Sure," Murong Shi agreed with a smile.


    After taking the group photo, Inverse Sign''s stomach started rumbling again, so Xu Chuanchuan hurriedly helped the girl to the restroom.


    However, Inverse Sign did not let go of Xu Chuanchuan''s hand immediately after reaching the restroom. Instead, she looked around and made sure Murong Shi wasn''t nearby before saying, "I''ve been reading your novels for six years now. I always thought you would end up together with Lord An. I didn''t think you would end up with Tycoon Shi."


    Xu Chuanchuan knew that many of her readers secretly shipped her and Ange, and it didn''t matter how many times she came out to rify the matter. So, she chuckled and said, "Thank you. Matters regarding rtionships depend on fate as well."


    Then, Inverse Sign added, "But once I finished reading <em>After Being Bent by Reader</em>, I instantly fell in love with Tycoon Shi. I wonder where I can find such a perfect girlfriend as well?"


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t know how to follow up on such a question.


    "I''m really envious of you two. I sincerely hope you two can live a happy life together," Inverse Sign earnestly said.


    Xu Chuanchuan was so moved by Inverse Sign''s words that she wanted to hug the girl. However, afraid that the girl''s stomach couldn''t handle the physical contact, she said, "Thank you. I also hope you can find your own happiness as soon as possible."

 Chapter 106: Pt.2 (Grand Finale)

    Chapter 106: Pt.2 (Grand Finale)


    Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi did not stay in Beijing for long because they had to get back to work. Ange also didn''t have anything to do in Beijing, so the three left the city on the same date.


    After arriving at the airport, Xu Chuanchuan asked Ange, "What time is your flight?"


    Ange''s eyes flickered for a moment. Then, she said, "Same as you two."


    Xu Chuanchuan didn''t put too much thought into Ange''s answer initially. However, when they were checking their luggage, Xu Chuanchuan caught sight of Ange''s boarding pass. "Aren''t you going back to Shanghai?"


    Ange''s boarding pass clearly stated that her flight would go from Beijing to S City.


    However, Xu Chuanchuan quickly came to a realization without waiting for Ange''s answer. Then, raising an eyebrow, she asked, "Are you going to see Fang Qin?"


    Ange put away her boarding pass and responded with an "Mhm."


    Ange did not notify Fang Qin beforehand regarding her visit, so Fang Qin thought she would return to Shanghai after the Author''s Conference. After clocking out of work, Fang Qin sent a message through WeChat.


    Fang Qin: "Have you reached home yet?"


    Ange: "I have."


    Fang Qin: "If you''re tired, rest early tonight."


    Ange stopped replying.


    Fang Qin guessed that Ange was busy, so she closed her phone and drove her way back home from work. After exiting the elevator on her floor, she saw a familiar figure sitting on arge suitcase while ying with a mobile phone. Fang Qin''s heart skipped a beat when she saw this figure, and she swiftly approached the other party.


    When Ange heard the footsteps, she looked up and met Fang Qin''s eyes. Then, she put down her phone and tiredly said, "You''re finally back."


    It wasn''t until Fang Qin touched Ange''s face was she sure that she wasn''t dreaming. Then, after looking at the suitcase Ange sat on, she asked in confusion, "Weren''t you returning to Shanghai?"


    Ange stood up and stretched her back. Then, looking at her confused girlfriend, she said, "You don''t seem to want me here. Since that''s the case, I''ll go back."


    Fang Qin immediately embraced Ange.


    Ange was exhausted because of her flight, so she decided to take a shower to freshen up. When she left the bathroom, she saw Fang Qin helping her organize her luggage.


    "Why did you bring so many clothes?" Fang Qin asked while unpacking the suitcase.


    Apart from aptop, the rest of therge suitcase was filled with clothes of various styles. By the time Fang Qin finished unpacking the suitcase, she had counted over a dozen sets of summer clothing.


    While drying her hair, Ange nonchntly said, "This is only part of it. There are still two suitcases on the way."


    Fang Qin momentarily froze. Then, she asked, "What do you mean?"


    "I rented my house to someone else. I don''t have a ce to live right now, so I can only stay at your ce," Ange said as shezily climbed onto the bed. "...What are you doing?"


    In her hurry, Fang Qin had grabbed Ange''s ankle as thetter was climbing onto the bed. After recovering her senses, she stood up, walked toward Ange, and said with a serious expression, "I still don''t understand. Can you make it clearer?"


    Ange sighed. Then, she hung her towel around Fang Qin''s neck and said, "I don''t have a ce to stay. Are you willing to take me in?"


    Fang Qin''s breath stagnated. After taking a moment to calm herself, she said, "Yes."


    "I won''t pay rent."


    Caressing Ange''s corbone with her thumb, Fang Qin whispered, "Pay with your body, then."


    From then onward, Ange settled in S City.


    For a frencer like Ange, it didn''t matter where she lived at. So long as she had aputer and inte ess, her life wouldn''t be affected even if she moved to a different city.


    Xu Chuanchuan was naturally happy about Ange''s decision. Now that Ange had moved to S City, they would have more opportunities to meet up.


    Only, Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but wonder what made Ange make such a decision. So, she asked Ange about it, and her friend said, "This woman is too dumb. She''s so dumb that I can''t leave her alone."


    Is she talking about Fang Qin? Xu Chuanchuan wondered. Then, she said, "Dumb? I don''t think so."


    "She once gave up everything for a woman. Isn''t that dumb?"


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "So, are you giving up everything for Fang Qin''s sake?"


    "I''m not that great."


    Regardless of what Ange said, Xu Chuanchuan came to understand one principle: If it weren''t for love, who would be willing to leave their hometown to pursue someone?


    Three yearster...


    Xu Chuanchuan had be a full-time author. She passed her days writing and reading books. When she was free, she would invite Ange out for a meal.


    Although Ange was still writing, she wasn''t writing novels anymore. Instead, she wrote screenys as a screenwriter. She didn''tck money, after all. Even if she didn''t have an ie, she didn''t have to worry about money for the rest of her life. Meanwhile, working as a screenwriter was part of her n to be a film director in the future.


    After changing careers, Ange frequently traveled for business, her trips usuallysting a week. When visiting the film crew this time, she also brought Xu Chuanchuan together with her.


    As soon as the two left, Fang Qin and Murong Shi were forced to spend their nights in solitude. Meanwhile, Murong Shi disliked the loneliness so much that she would call Xu Chuanchuan at least once every day to ask when she would be back.


    Xu Chuanchuan felt that Murong Shi was too clingy, so she deliberately gave her lover the cold shoulder. Then, seemingly sensing the perfunctory tone in Xu Chuanchuan''s words, Murong Shi stopped urging her to return.


    "Don''t you want to go back?" Ange asked while inspecting her friend''s face.


    After pondering for a moment, Xu Chuanchuan said, "I''ve been together with her for too long that I''m starting to feel a little bored recently."


    Chuckling, Ange said, "You haven''t even reached the seven-year itch, yet you''re already finding her unbearable?"


    Pursing her lips, Xu Chuanchuan said, "That''s not it. I just think that the sense of freshness in our rtionship has disappeared."


    "Let''s stay here for a few more days, then."


    Xu Chuanchuan agreed with Ange''s idea.


    However, on that same night, Linda sent Xu Chuanchuan a message that unsettled her so much that she booked a flight back the next day.


    ording to Linda, thepany had hired a beautiful new assistant recently, and this assistant fawned over Murong Shi every day. To make matters worse, Murong Shi didn''t show any signs of avoiding the assistant''s approaches. She even took the woman out for meals and brought her back to thepany dormitory and their home.


    Xu Chuanchuan initially expressed her doubts over this matter. However, when she tried calling Murong Shi, her call couldn''t get through no matter what.


    Linda even said that Murong Shi had hooked up with that woman two days ago.


    Isn''t that the day I started deliberately neglecting her?


    Xu Chuanchuan was infuriated after reading Linda''s message. And since her calls weren''t reaching Murong Shi sincest night, Xu Chuanchuan dared not waste even a moment as she flew back to S City right away.


    ...


    Today was a weekend, and Linda said Murong Shi wasn''t at thepany. So, Xu Chuanchuan made her way back home as soon as she left the airport.


    Ange had also apanied Xu Chuanchuan back to catch the adulterous couple in action.


    Last year, Xu Chuanchuan and Murong Shi had already moved out of the dormitory and moved into the condo Sun An gave to Murong Shi. Xu Chuanchuan honestly didn''t believe Murong Shi would cheat on her. She also didn''t believe that Murong Shi would bring other women to their homes.


    ...But what reason did Linda have to trick her?


    The fact that Murong Shi was refusing to answer her phone was also very suspicious.


    Xu Chuanchuan''s hand trembled violently as she tried to insert the key into the keyhole. After seeing her friend failing to open the door for some time, Ange took over the keys and patted Xu Chuanchuan on the shoulder, saying, "Calm down."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t calm down. As soon as Ange unlocked the door, Xu Chuanchuan immediately opened it and entered the house.


    <em>Pop</em>


    <em>Pop</em>


    Two loud noises entered Xu Chuanchuan''s ears, frightening her. Before she could react to what was going on, colorful confetti and streamers rained down on her.


    Inside the house, Xu Xiangxiang and Little Yan each held a confetti popper in their hands. After firing the confetti poppers, they shouted in unison, "Happy Tenth Anniversary!"


    Aside from the two younger girls, Fang Qin was also present.


    Xu Chuanchuan pulled away the confetti and streamers covering her eyes. Then, she asked in a daze, "What''s going on?"


    As soon as Xu Chuanchuan spoke, Murong Shi walked over with a bunch of lilies in her hands and said, "It''s your tenth year working as an author. Have you forgotten?"


    Xu Chuanchuan looked at Murong Shi in astonishment. She also realized that Linda had tricked her.


    "I...don''t remember. I thought..."


    "You thought I cheated on you?"


    Xu Chuanchuan remained silent.


    Murong Shi passed Xu Chuanchuan the flowers and smiled, saying, "If you''re worried, you can take yourputer to my office and work there from now on."


    Xu Chuanchuan couldn''t help but blush when she heard Murong Shi saying all this in front of so many people.


    However, Murong Shi didn''t care at all as she leaned over and kissed Xu Chuanchuan on the cheek. Then, she affectionately said, "I will love you forever."


    "Me too," Xu Chuanchuan whispered.


    Everyone: "Get a room!"


    The End


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