Chapter 43

Chapter 43

Since Qin Si joined them later, the meal progressed at a leisurely pace, extending till the outside world was enshrouded in darkness.

Glancing at the time, Lu Nian remarked, "I should probably head back now."

Ming-ge suggested, "Alright, let's get in touch the day after tomorrow. We'll pick you up to hang out at our place."

"Thank you, Ming-ge," Lu Nian gratefully responded with a well-mannered tone.

As the group exited the restaurant, they noticed the sky had grown dark and overcast, heralding the potential onset of rain, with storm clouds looming ominously.

"Is someone from your home coming to pick you up?" Xiao Qu asked.

Lu Nian shook her head, "Our driver is off today, I'll head back myself."

In truth, it was because she had snuck out on her own and didn't want to alert the Lu family's personnel.

"It's quite late, and it's too dangerous for you to be out alone as a young woman," Ming-ge disapproved.

He addressed Qin Si, "You should escort Sister Nian Nian home since you are the most unoccupied among us."

As Qin Si trailed behind the group, a breeze passed, bringing with it a faint and crisp scent of alcohol that reached Lu Nian's nose.

He remarked, "I have been drinking, I cannot drive."

"Then just hail a cab," Ming-ge suggested, "No one said you had to drive yourself."

Lu Nian glanced at him, "It's fine, I can take a taxi home myself; it's not particularly late anyway."

The silhouette of the young girl seemed particularly fragile and delicate from behind.

"Why are you following me?" Lu Nian asked without looking back.

Observing the elongated shadow cast upon the ground, which intertwined with hers.

His voice was gentle yet somewhat raspy, "Just taking a detour to sober up."

Lu Nian, "......"

In her memory, she hadn't seen Qin Si indulge in alcohol very often. Despite having spent a significant time with Ming-ge during his student years, she never noticed him emanating the smell of alcohol, and he seldom got drunk; Lu Nian hadn't witnessed him in a drunken state before.

"Then you should stop looking out for me in the future," Lu Nian murmured, "I am an adult now; if you can drink, so can I."

Qin Si, "......"

He remained silent.

As she got out of the car, Lu Nian stumbled slightly; her left leg, still recovering from an injury, was somewhat weak and couldn't bear her full weight at the moment.

She was steadied by a supporting hand.

She thought to herself, his hand has grown so large, capable of completely enveloping hers, a far cry from the little boy's hand she remembered from their childhood.

Unbidden, the memory of that reckless kiss resurfaced in her mind, recalling the fervent response from the young man beneath her and his restrained breaths.

In the darkness, her face turned a deep shade of red.

Qin Si had slowly released his grip on her hand.

The moon hung high in the sky.

Thus, until they approached the entrance of the Lu family estate, they barely exchanged a few words. Finally, Lu Nian asked, "How much longer will you be staying in Ancheng this time?"

"I'll leave at the end of the month."

Lu Nian, "Oh."

Lost in thought, she pondered, perhaps, this was the last time. After this, she might not see him again, unsure whether he would return during the New Year festivities.

Deep down, she wished to linger a bit longer, to spend more time with him.

However, she dared not return too late tonight.

Lu Zhihong's flight was scheduled to arrive in Ancheng tonight. The following day, the Zhao couple would visit with Zhao Tingyuan and Zhao Yayuan. This was a matter Lu Zhihong took seriously, so he would undoubtedly return early to make arrangements.

He retraced his steps back the way he had come.

Ming-ge was on the second floor of the bar. Seeing him push the door open, bathed in moonlight filtering through the corridor, he didn't even lift his head, remarking, "What are you doing here? Why not go home instead of coming to my place?"

"I can't go back," was his brief reply.

The house felt eerily empty. He found himself in the same state as when they had initially parted; he didn't want to go home.

Ming-ge, "?"

Unwilling to elaborate further, a faint blush tinted the corners of his eyes and behind his ears.

Ming-ge observed, "You're drunk, aren't you? That liquor is pretty potent. You must be out of your mind to have drunk so much."

"I'm fine."

Even when intoxicated, he maintained a disciplined restraint, showing no signs of drunkenness and avoiding any alcohol-fueled folly.

Unable to afford any missteps, he had no room or opportunity for setbacks. Since childhood, he had grown accustomed to such restraint.

"Did you escort Nian Nian home?" Ming-ge asked.

"Mhm."

Ming-ge spoke gravely, "I don't want to meddle in your affairs, but let me say this one last time. Nian Nian is a good girl. If you have feelings for her, you should act swiftly. Otherwise, you'll end up with regrets."

"She doesn't harbor feelings for me," Qin Si replied nonchalantly.

She probably hasn't fully grasped the concept of affection yet. The unexpected kiss last time at Nan Qiao was likely a spur-of-the-moment action fueled by either pique or a novelty thrill.

Yet, it was him who had nearly lost control during that impulsive, heat-of-the-moment kiss.

Even if Lu Nian harbored a curiosity about him, it wouldn't last.

Their emotional dynamics had been unequal from the start and seemed destined to remain so.

At this point, he was not in a position to voice any claims of affection; he refused to drag her into the same situation he found himself in.

She was born to be cherished and shielded, to lead a life devoid of worries, protected and pampered by others, unlike him - seemingly insignificant as grass, scrambling and fighting like a stray dog in the outside world, hastily and haphazardly maturing.

He needed a bit more time.

He had grown accustomed to enduring in silence.

The next day, Miao Miao woke Lu Nian up early,

Due to the Zhao family's visit, the Lu residence was bustling since morning. The servants were constantly moving about, getting the entire house animated, all to ensure the success of the luncheon.

Miao Miao was combing her hair, and the Lu family had called a makeup artist to give her a light makeup look. "Nian Nian, you are eighteen now, you can start wearing a bit of makeup."

Zhang Qiuping came over to take a glance, her face beaming with smiles, "Nian Nian, you need to dress up nicely today to leave a good impression on them."

Lu Nian truly couldn't comprehend why such fuss was necessary, especially since Zhao Tingyuan and Zhao Yayuan had met her before.

After all, Mr. and Mrs. Zhao were of a different generation, would they really care about how a young girl like her looked?

Zhang Qiuping said, "It's also a matter of preserving the Lu family's prestige."

Miaomiao added, "Nian Nian, in the future when you attend social events, you will be representing your family. The Master would surely hope you could present yourself elegantly and attractively."

The argument seemed quite reasonable, so Lu Nian reluctantly agreed, "Alright then."

Finally, she was all spruced up.

"Young Master Zhao has already arrived." Miaomiao informed Lu Nian after taking a quick look outside.

"Which one?"

"The second young master Zhao."

Zhao Yayuan, then.

While Lu Nian was resting in the small living room, the door swung open as if on cue, akin to speaking of Cao Cao and he appears.

Seeing him, Lu Nian's eyes curled up in a smile, "Why are you dressed so formally?"

Being accustomed to seeing Zhao Yayuan's usual laid-back demeanor, it felt somewhat odd seeing him dressed so formally this time.

Zhao Yayuan unbuttoned the top two buttons of his shirt, finally feeling a bit more breathable, "You think I wanted to dress like this? It was my mom's insistence. If I didn't comply, she would keep nagging at me until my ears developed calluses."

"My parents have also arrived, they are chatting with your dad right now." Zhao Yayuan sprawled on the sofa, "I guess they will call us to join them shortly."

Since their trip to Nanqiao, this was her first time meeting Zhao Yayuan.

Seeing him, Lu Nian suddenly wished how wonderful it would be if Qiu Li was willing to return.

Then they would have two representatives on their side, sparing her from having to represent the Lu family in all social engagements.

At least she would have someone to rely on.

She sighed too.

"My brother is here as well," Zhao Yayuan mentioned, "he's outside with the three of them."

Lu Nian and Zhao Tingyuan weren't exactly close acquaintances. They had encountered each other numerous times but never formed a deep friendship.

However, in her impression, Zhao Tingyuan had always been unrelated to her matters. His demeanor was gentle and easy-going, which didn't impose any pressure on Lu Nian.

Zhao Tingyuan was indeed outside, initially engaged in a conversation with Lu Zhihong, who praised, "Tingyuan, you're becoming more and more promising."

Zhao Tingyuan chuckled, "Uncle, you are the one who truly possesses elegance. My father always says that in the current social circles of Ancheng..."

Lu Zhihong burst into hearty laughter, "Tingyuan, you really have a way with words."

Zhao Rulan added, "He is merely stating the obvious."

Zhao Tingyuan's phone kept vibrating. Noticing the adults immersed in their conversation, he excused himself, "Sorry, I need to take this call; it's from my mentor."

Jiang Wenyan remarked, "Go ahead. This child has been constantly busy since starting university."

Lu Zhihong nodded approvingly, "Young people should strive hard. My daughter, on the other hand, has been pampered too much."

Jiang Wenyan, "My second son is no different. He just came in and disappeared within a few moments. I wonder where he has run off to."

Holding his phone, the smile on Zhao Tingyuan's face faded. It was a call from Su Qingyou.

He retreated to a quiet corner before answering, greeting the caller with a "Hello."

"Tingyuan, where are you right now?" a soft, somewhat aggrieved female voice came from the other end, "I want to see you."

Zhao Tingyuan lowered the volume, "...it's better if we don't meet up for a while."

It was rare to see him without a smile on his face.

"I'm sorry, it was my fault for not controlling myself last time," Su Qingyou admitted, "I caused you trouble, but my feelings for you are genuine."

"Don't worry, Tingyuan, I won't disclose anything," she assured, "We were both willing participants, mature enough to be responsible for our actions."

Her voice was steady, devoid of crying or melodrama, just a faint nasal quality betraying her weariness.

Zhao Tingyuan's resolve softened.

After a brief pause, he advised, "...Make sure to rest well at home these few days."

Being naturally gentle and noble, he found it hard to be harsh towards women.

Su Qingyou said, "I stayed home all day today, claiming to be feeling under the weather due to a cold... I know, you still care about me."

Zhao Tingyuan remained silent.

She queried, "Are you at the Lu's residence today?"

Zhao Tingyuan's voice grew colder, "Yes."

Su Qingyou said, "It's okay, I won't say anything. The Lu family's daughter is quite charming, I've always liked her. Don't you remember? We know each other."

In the end, Zhao Tingyuan still felt uneasy, exchanging only a few words before hanging up the call.

Since childhood, he had been indecisive, and even at this point, he remained wavering.

Comparing the Lu family with the Su family, be it in terms of business or background, the Lu family was significantly stronger, especially with Lu Zhihong now harboring grand ambitions. Many insiders held high expectations for the Lu family, and the current estimations of Lu Zhihong's net worth were nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Furthermore, the Su family had more than just Su Qingyou as a daughter; she also had brothers.

However, the Lu family now only had a sole heir, a daughter.

Lu Nian was introverted and not adept at socializing, but her personality was gentle and serene, devoid of any spoiled or bratty demeanor.

Her appearance was flawless, and apart from sometimes seeming a bit dull, lacking a young girl's playful charm, and continuously carrying a hint of frailty about her, she could even be considered one of the most beautiful women Zhao Tingyuan had ever encountered.

Su Qingyou had already started getting involved in her family's business affairs, demonstrating her capability and ambition for the future, while Lu Nian still retained a child-like innocence, far from being ready to take over the Lu family's ventures.

Actually, among the two, he felt more drawn to Su Qingyou. As for Lu Nian, whether it was due to her being too young when they first met or her consistent distance, Zhao Tingyuan always felt there was no spark between them.

Moreover, Ya Yuan's attitude towards her had always been a knot in Zhao Tingyuan's heart.

A few days ago, before visiting the Lu family, the brothers had a brief conversation.

"Brother, are you planning to compete with me?" Zhao Ya Yuan asked.

"Compete?" Zhao Tingyuan chuckled, "What do our parents think?"

Zhao Ya Yuan replied, "We are blood brothers; our parents would respect our wishes, of course."

He didn't say anything further, retreating to his room to continue playing video games.

However, this stirred ripples in Zhao Tingyuan's heart.

Since the brothers were separated during their childhood and didn't grow up together, coupled with Ya Yuan's frequent illnesses and frail health that made him seem perpetually in danger, Zhao Tingyuan had always viewed him as a harmless, younger brother needing protection.

But now, Zhao Ya Yuan was no longer the little kid he once was.

Jiang Wenyan's evident favoritism towards him had always been apparent.

That night, as Su Qingyou lay in his arms, her delicate fingers gently stroked his hair, "Tingyuan, even if he's your brother, you can't be sure of Ya Yuan's future intentions if you remain benign."

She softly continued, "I know your heart. If you were to succeed your parents, you would certainly treat Ya Yuan well. But what if Ya Yuan thinks differently? Perhaps, it's time to shift from being passive to active..."

Zhao Tingyuan closed his eyes, forcing himself to set aside these thoughts.

This was Lu Nian's first time meeting the Zhao family couple.

Zhao Rulan was a gentle and cultured man. Observing him, one could nearly envision what Zhao Tingyuan might look like a few decades later. He had aged gracefully, appearing to be in his early thirties.

And the other woman.

Zhao Yayuan's mother, Jiang Wenyin.

She is a strikingly beautiful woman, whose youthful beauty must have been extraordinary, epitomizing both allure and resplendent charm. The origin of Zhao Yayuan's beauty clearly traces back to her.

Holding Lu Nian's hand warmly, she seemed particularly fond of her, “Our Yayuan has quite the temper. It's fortunate he gets along with you, showing improvement in his studies and becoming more obedient.”

Zhao Yayuan rolled his eyes, “Mom, stop it.”

“This is a little welcome gift for you.” Despite Zhao Yayuan's protest, Jiang Wenyin maintained her grip on her hand, signaling for someone to bring over a gift box and hand it to her.

Inside the box lay a designer necklace, its brilliance captivating and clearly quite expensive. Lu Nian felt somewhat embarrassed, uncertain about accepting such a generous gift.

Lu Zhihong intervened, “Take it, it's a token of affection from your aunt.”

Lu Nian had no choice but to accept.

He Tian watched everything with a critical eye, seldom making appearances in social gatherings and not getting along well with Jiang Wenyin.

She felt only sarcasm at the moment.

Having lost her son, and now with only a daughter left who has been raised to this age, it seems the time has come for her to prove her worth.

Zhao Tingyuan was poised and gracious, very much embodying the demeanor of an older brother.

Lu Zhihong mentioned, “Nian Nian should score around the cut-off mark for An University. We plan to apply there too. At that time, we hope Tingyuan can look out for her.”

Zhao Tingyuan responded, “Of course, I'd be happy to. If Nian Nian has any difficulties at school, she can always come to me.”

“Has Tingyuan been dating anyone in university?” Lu Zhihong asked, seemingly casually.

Zhao Tingyuan replied, “No, I am currently prioritizing my studies.”

Listening to this, Lu Nian felt something was amiss. It seemed obvious that Zhao Tingyuan and Su Qingyou were an item since the early days of university. Why would he answer like this now?

Although she was the focus of the banquet, her mind seemed to wander throughout the event.

“In the future, feel free to visit our home more often,” Jiang Wenyin said warmly. “We've moved back to An City and settled in a new house in Xi Qiu instead of returning to our old residence. We've even reserved a room for you. You are welcome anytime, don't consider us strangers.”

Lu Nian whispered to Zhao Yayuan, “Your mother is incredibly warm.”

She could hardly resist.

The warmth was perhaps too much.

Zhao Yayuan propped his face with a hand, glanced at her lazily, and said with a smirk, “Haven't you always disliked staying at your own home? It would be nice to stay at mine, wouldn't it?”

Lu Nian, “...Perhaps it's better not to.”

After all, she was a young girl; it wouldn't be appropriate to spend the night at someone else's house, no matter how you put it.

Lu Zhihong inquired, “Xi Qiu? Isn't that quite close to An University?”

Zhao Yayuan affirmed, “Yes.”

Lu Zhihong chuckled, “In that case, if it ever gets too late to return, I might as well impose upon your family from time to time.”

It will foster a bond between the two youngsters.

Lu Nian muttered, “... Isn’t there a dormitory at the school? Why does she have to stay at someone else's home?”

After dinner, the group dispersed, the adults continuing their conversation over tea in the living room.

Finally able to breathe, Lu Nian contemplated retreating to her own room.

“I don't mind if you stay at my place,” Zhao Yayuan said, lowering his head with a mischievous smile, “I wouldn't even mind sharing a bed with you.”

Lu Nian rebuffed him righteously, “I mind, thank you.”

“When do you plan to bring Xiao Qiu back?” Zhao Yayuan followed her through the corridor, changing the subject abruptly, “It seems quite exhausting for you to be on your own.”

Lu Nian pursed her lips, “If he's unwilling, do you have any solutions?”

“Has father found out about Xiao Qiu's situation?” She finally managed to voice her concerns.

Zhao Yayuan shook his head.

Over the past few years, Lu Zhihong had lost hope, presuming that Lu Zuo had perished, and had almost ceased the search efforts.

Lu Nian felt a tumult of conflicting suspicions and speculations whirling in her mind.

Could he be a posthumous child? Or perhaps he was abducted at a young age? But then, how would that explain why Qiu Li is reluctant to return home?

After a moment of silence, Zhao Yayuan spoke again, “Grandma hasn't been feeling too well recently.”

“Huh?” Lu Nian was taken aback, “What happened? Is she alright?”

She knew how much Qiu Li adored their grandma. If anything were to happen to her, Qiu Li would be heartbroken.

Gazing at the night sky, Zhao Yayuan said, “It’s not a serious issue, just a persistent ailment that has been bothering her. The healthcare in Nan Qiao simply isn't sufficient. I plan to bring her to An City for better treatment.”

Lu Nian asked, “Will Xiao Qiu come along to take care of her?”

“Absolutely, as Grandma is unwilling to move,” Zhao Yayuan confirmed, “I am still trying to persuade her. It might take a while longer.”

He added, with an unusually serious gaze from his amber eyes directed at her, “But coming back to An City does not necessarily mean returning to the Lu family.”

He advised, “So, for the time being, refrain from mentioning it to him. Take it slow.”

He too hoped that Qiu Li would return to the Lu family. Then, the three of them would be united as a family once more.

"When the time comes, if they are here, I'll take you to meet them."

Lu Nian nodded, feeling somewhat despondent inside, "Hmm."

As the two of them walked and chatted, they encountered Lu Yang in the corridor.

Zhao Yayuan has always had a disdain for Lu Yang, so he pretended not to notice him. In contrast, Lu Nian greeted him, calling out "Brother Yang."

They continued walking after the brief encounter.

Lu Yang opened the balcony door to find Zhao Tingyuan taking a breath of fresh air, engrossed in something on his mobile phone.

Lu Yang said, "You might as well consider yourself my brother-in-law."

Zhao Tingyuan simply smiled, "Yayuan is very fond of Nian Nian."

Lu Yang continued, "The key is to treat Nian Nian well, not to focus on these superficial matters."

The night breeze was cool, and under the night sky, the Lu family mansion appeared even more grandiose.

In a hushed tone, Lu Yang said, "Uncle has been quite busy lately. The Lu family is preparing to expand on a grand scale, initiating a significant investment. However, we are lacking in connections and the capital chain is insufficient. Your family’s endorsement would be beneficial, and it seems the negotiations are almost settled."

"Your family has two sons, and we only have Nian Nian. If we could secure an engagement sooner, solidifying this arrangement, things would become much smoother. I believe that's also what uncle has in mind."

"Nian Nian is only eighteen this year, right?" Zhao Tingyuan couldn't help but laugh, "Why does this feel like I am committing a crime?"

Lu Yang commented, "It's just an engagement, not a marriage."

He continued, "Considering that your family has two sons, you should think about your own interests more. Don't just cede everything to your younger brother because he is the younger one."

The smile on Zhao Tingyuan’s face gradually faded.

"It's fine to have your fun outside," Lu Yang mentioned, "Just ensure Nian Nian doesn't find out. More importantly, treat Nian Nian well."

He added, "Nian Nian is pure-hearted and hasn't interacted much with boys or been in a relationship. Pamper her well. Uncle does care about her feelings. If she likes you, uncle will definitely take that into consideration."

After all, Lu Nian is Lu Zhihong's daughter.

Without changing the overall plan, whether choosing Zhao Tingyuan or Zhao Yayuan, Lu Zhihong would still consider Lu Nian's feelings in the end.

Zhao Tingyuan nodded, "Thank you."

Lu Yang replied, "It's nothing. As her brother, I simply wish the best for Nian Nian."

The luncheon was very successful.

Lu Zhihong and Zhao Rulan had an extensive conversation, essentially finalizing the contract, and also discussed future developments casually.

The atmosphere was quite relaxed, and both Zhao Rulan and Jiang Wenyan seemed noticeably pleased with Lu Nian.

Lu Nian has a gentle and submissive demeanor, boasting unparalleled beauty. Skilled in music, chess, literature, and art to some extent, and academically accomplished, she isn't an arrogant and uninformed young heiress. Jiang Wenyan, who doesn't have a daughter of her own, finds it utterly impossible to resist such a sweet and beautiful young girl.

The question now is, who to choose, and when to make the announcement.

The Zhao family believes that the children are too young now. In another year or two, when they reach the age of twenty and have cultivated a good relationship, they can get engaged.

Lu Zhihong shares this sentiment, not feeling any rush at the moment. In a couple of years, the critical phase of Lu Corporation's development will come.

Lu Zhihong is an ambitious man.

Lu Zhihong sits in his luxurious office, having spent a bit too long reviewing documents, he feels somewhat fatigued.

At five in the afternoon, a knock resounded at the door.

"Come in," Lu Zhihong instructed.

The young man who entered held a poised stature, with refined and elegant features resembling both the purity of snow and the resilience of a pine tree, exuding a restrained and mature demeanor.

"Sit," Lu Zhihong said, a rare smile gracing his face.

Lu Zhihong commented, "The tasks you've handled recently have been completed excellently."

In reality, the performance had surpassed his expectations, far outdoing the majority of the company's regular staff.

Lu Zhihong contemplated entrusting him with even more responsibilities.

The young man's expression remained serene, not swayed by the praise.

Lu Zhihong held a newspaper in his hand, "I haven't been in good health lately. The world ahead belongs to your generation."

He laid the newspaper down, the top article detailed an older man who had been on the run for seven or eight years after inflicting serious injury on someone. Captured a few years ago, he was recently diagnosed with lung cancer in prison and had passed away following a failed medical parole.

Lu Zhihong recognized the name, it belonged to a family who had initially wanted to adopt Qin Si.

He remembered that before being brought into the Lu family, there were other families willing to adopt Qin Si.

In fact, during his time at the orphanage, many people were keen on adopting him.

Being such a handsome and healthy boy, he attracted a lot of prospective adoptive families.

"I was too young then," he remarked casually, "I hardly have any recollection."

Lu Zhihong didn't dwell on this matter, it merely brought back some memories.

After all the contemplation, he circled back to his original intention: the Lu family needed someone obedient and competent. Qin Si fit these criteria perfectly.

Having wandered the streets as a child before being taken in by the orphanage and later joining the Lu family, Lu Zhihong had initially investigated any information on Qin Si's parents, only to find no trace of them.

Now a person completely devoid of relatives and connections, Qin Si proved to be quite convenient to employ in various tasks.

Lu Zhihong had a brief chat with him, listening to Qin Si’s ideas about the Lu family's business operations.

The more he heard, the more he perceived him to be a promising talent.

"Let's call it a day," Lu Zhihong declared.

The business discussions were concluded.

Though Qin Si was slightly older than Lu Zuo, the age difference wasn't significant. Observing him, Lu Zhihong suddenly asked, "Are you familiar with the Zhao brothers in your daily interactions? What is your opinion of them?"

The young man had been ready to leave.

His face remained expressionless, "I am somewhat acquainted with Zhao Er, but we haven't conversed much."

"Raising a daughter is quite a hassle," Lu Zhihong removed his glasses and sighed, "As a father, there's so much to consider, whether to choose the one she prefers or the one who is more suitable."

"Nian Nian is already grown up, yet she behaves much like a child," Lu Zhihong remarked, "Her whims change constantly, favoring one thing today and another tomorrow. It requires constant attention and concern."

"I wish you were my son," Lu Zhihong said.

As he beheld the young man before him, a vision of grace and promise, he couldn't help but feel a tinge of envy.

The young man remained silent, not picking up on the conversation.

"I really don't understand how you youngsters interact these days; we older folks are falling behind," Lu Zhihong jokingly commented, "If things don't work out, I might have to ask for your help to create some opportunities for them."

The youth stood with a straight back, his expression unchanged, offering no response, letting Lu Zhihong speak to his heart's content.

As he left Lu Zhihong's study, the setting sun, resembling blood, slowly ascended from the other end of the city skyline.

He loosened his fingers, silently gazing at the reddened sun outside the window.

Lu Nian still remembered her agreement with Ming Ge and the others.

College application time was nearing, and she had essentially settled on An University.

Zhao Yayuan planned to apply to the nearby An Technical University, separated only by a single street lane from her chosen school.

While it was located in a different district compared to their high school, it was essentially just a transition from one area to another, still within the same city.

Ming Ge had called to check in with her several times.

Finally, that day, Lu Nian managed to slip out.

Having not contacted Qin Si for several days, she counted the days at home, realizing that only about ten days remained before his departure from An City.

This stay seemed long compared to the winter break when he didn't return at all.

This time, they were heading to Huang Mao and Xiao Qu's place.

Both Ming Ge and Qin Si were absent.

She ate with a preoccupied mind, feeling a heavy weight in her heart.

"They're at the bar," Huang Mao said, "Ming Ge has been grumbling for a long while tonight, wondering why the business had to be so good today of all days."

"Will you head over later?" Huang Mao asked with a mischievous grin, "He mentioned that he's treating everyone tonight, drinks are on the house."

It had been quite a while since Lu Nian had visited Ming Ge's bar.

Suddenly, Bai Xi came to her mind. She pursed her lips, deciding, "I'll go."

Why not go? She was a guest invited by Ming Ge, there was nothing to fear.

As expected, the business was booming.

Lu Nian looked around and noticed several beautiful young ladies in the bar. She spotted Bai Xi at the center, surrounded by people, emanating an air of arrogance while preparing a cocktail.

Lu Nian settled down beside the bar, her gaze fixed on Bai Xi, suddenly feeling a surge of irritation.

She wondered if Qin Si was also here tonight, presumably attracted by her presence.

Now that she was of legal age, having a little drink was naturally no issue.

Huang Mao remarked, "Nian Nian, is this really a good idea? Didn't Brother Qin advise against you drinking?"

Lu Nian's expression turned cold as she retorted, "Who is he to dictate what I can or cannot do? He's allowed to drink, but I'm not?"

Xiao Qu adjusted his glasses and glanced behind her.

A tall and handsome young man stood silently behind her, his expression unreadable as he observed the group.

Huang Mao stammered, "I, uh, need to use the restroom... I'll be right back."

Xiao Qu chimed in, "I left my computer on, I need to go shut it down."

Like slippery eels, the two of them slid away with a whoosh.

Lu Nian, "..."

Despite the dim lighting, that face was unmistakable to her, recognizable even if turned to ashes.

Wasn't he supposed to be busy with something? Why was he here at the bar now, not even returning home? Presumably, he came in search of someone.

"Miss, your special cocktail is ready," the bartender approached with the drink.

Qin Si cast a glance at him, and with just a fleeting encounter with those deep, icy phoenix eyes, the bartender nodded hurriedly, placed down the drink, and made a swift exit.

While the bar staff were unafraid of the official boss, Ming Ge, they harbored a peculiar sense of dread towards this enigmatic young man.

Qin Si seemed to have no intention of stopping her.

Despite what was said earlier, he genuinely just watched her drink without intervening, disregarding the previous agreement about him not letting her drink.

Lu Nian was incensed to the point of suffocation, grabbing the glass and downing the drink almost in an act of defiance.

After gulping down a few mouthfuls, she nearly choked, her fair face flushing instantly.

"I am a guest," she uttered with a slurred speech, "Shouldn't you be offering me service?"

He stood amid the crowd, distinctly outstanding, resembling a tall and upright cedar tree.

Qin Si responded indifferently, "I am neither an employee of this damn bar nor anyone to you."

His handsome face bore an expression of pronounced indifference, "If you desire service, seek someone else."

Rolling up his sleeves slightly, he cleared away the empty glasses around, the dim light accentuating the beautiful lines of his exposed forearm and highlighting the delicateness of his wrist and elongated fingers.

He seemed to treat her as if she was merely air.

A wave of drunkenness slowly engulfed her.

Lu Nian's face turned crimson with anger, "You never treat me well."

"You shameless one, mingling with that pretty girl at the bar..." in her inebriated state, she finally blurted out.

The young man furrowed his brows, "What did you say?"

"Yes, Bai Xi," Lu Nian finally recalled her name.

This issue had been weighing heavily on her heart for a long time, unasked. Now, fueled by the alcohol, all the questions poured out at once.

People were everywhere around them, and a few had started to turn their attention towards their direction.

With a furrowed brow, he pulled her up from her seat.

The second floor was deserted and quiet. After pondering for a moment, he opened a door and ushered her inside.

It was a room he had temporarily stayed in while he was with Ming Ge. It had been a long time since he visited, but the basic furnishings were still intact.

"Last time, she told me," Lu Nian continued, her face still flushed, "that she and you, did that..."

Despite the burning desire to know, uttering such words was ultimately too embarrassing for Lu Nian.

However, Qin Si could undoubtedly discern the meaning, his reaction swift. Seeing her hesitant demeanor and suddenly reddened cheeks, he understood immediately.

This was utterly absurd.

What did she take him for?

He scoffed coldly, "You believed her just because she said it?"

Lu Nian was at a loss for words.

On closer reflection, it was indeed only Bai Xi who had spoken unilaterally; she had never witnessed any concrete evidence.

Her mind seemed to be unable to process any further.

Why would Bai Xi say such things?

Perhaps due to her limited life experiences, her inherent innocence, and having been overly protected, it never occurred to her that a girl could casually concoct such a lie that doesn't even benefit her in any way.

However, given his words, she chose to believe him for the time being.

Lu Nian earnestly apologized, "I'm sorry."

Qin Si lowered his eyes, remaining silent.

"So..." she mumbled, the alcohol taking its toll as her eyes sparkled, "Have you..."

Ever engaged in that kind of thing?

She always felt that Qin Si led a complicated life, having spent his childhood outdoors, certainly having experienced a complex journey. She had overheard Huang Mao saying that quite a few people were fond of him.

To Lu Nian, he didn't seem like someone who would exercise great restraint. That day she took the initiative just slightly, and he responded quite passionately, didn't he?

Qin Si, "......"

His non-response, did it imply an affirmation?

Of course, she had no right to pry, yet, she couldn't help but feel unhappy.

She was very close to him, her large eyes staring at him accusingly, "I'm not trying to meddle, but that day, you left me in quite a bit of pain."

It was she who initiated it, so naturally, she wouldn't blame him, but wanting to hear the truth seemed fair, right?

He became completely stiff, unable to maintain his previous indifferent demeanor, frozen all the way to his fingertips, unable to muster a retort.

She realized that mentioning that kiss seemed to be Qin Si's vulnerability, and bringing it up would make him yield.

"The door is closed," she said, leaning on her palm, and slowly closed the door with her other hand. Her apricot eyes gleamed mischievously, "Ming Ge and the others won't come in, it's just the two of us."

"No one will hear if you speak up."

She mumbled, her voice both soft and sweet, as if she were murmuring to herself, yet also somewhat seductive.

He hadn't expected her tolerance for alcohol to be so low; he was beginning to regret not replacing her drinks with water.

She leaned in closer, her cheeks porcelain-white, charming and radiant, a faint scent of alcohol in her breath, resembling a siren driving him into a corner.

The fragrance wafting from her dress seemed to envelop him, a gentle moonlight resting on the curve of her collarbone, visible from the neckline, made it difficult for him to keep his eyes on her.

The more he retreated, the more disorganized he became.

"I've never had a girlfriend, never been intimate with anyone, nor have I kissed anyone else," he stated, seeming as if he was being grilled over a flame, driven to a corner. His eyes reddened at the corners, and his voice was raspy. Gritting his teeth, he added, "And I never will in my lifetime, is that satisfactory?"

His face is so flushed, even the corners of his eyes are red, so beautiful...

This is quite unlike the Qin Si who is usually infuriatingly arrogant and indifferent.

Her head feels dizzy and floating.

Author's note:

The current Four-Four Zai: Things like that will never happen in my lifetime.

The future Four-Four Zai: ……

Nian Nian (in contemplation): What did you say before? Don't want it, never in your lifetime? Then let it be.

Four-Four Zai: ……

Teasing him is so much fun.

To clarify, it's not just because Four-Four Zai is timid. He's a very responsible person who takes matters concerning Nian Nian very seriously. Wanting to protect her and fearing she might get hurt, he usually contemplates deeply, considering the long-term consequences. The current situation isn't something he can resolve with a mere confession.

(Of course, expecting him to confess outright now is impossible. Pfft, he is prideful and coy by nature.)

He will definitely take the initiative and pursue her in the later stages.