Chapter Nineteen: Study

Chapter Nineteen: Study

Initially, Tang Yun assumed these were just props sent as a joke from Director Kuang. But upon deeper reflection, why would the director specially package these intimate items? It surely wasn't for Kuang Yanhe's solitary entertainment.

These were clearly items intended for two.

The only explanation was that Kuang Yanhe had someone with whom he could indulge in such pleasures.

Perhaps a lover or, maybe, a paramour.

They say the face reveals the heart. To Tang Yun, Kuang Yanhe exuded a rebellious and devilish aura, despite his outwardly conventional demeanor. He appeared easily flattered, but in reality, he sat atop the food chain, looking down on the masses. His debonair nature was evident, with everything coming easily to him. His quick and composed rebuttal earlier demonstrated his intellect.

Yet, from the moment Tang Yun entered, he hadn’t noticed any feminine items.

He had previously visited numerous couples' homes where a distinct feminine touch was immediately apparent. The women would often adorn their homes with cute, yet seemingly unnecessary, decorations to enhance the ambiance.

Whether the home was messy or neat, it was usually easy to determine if two people lived there.

However, everything in Kuang Yanhe’s residence seemed to come as part of the original furnishings, with nothing superfluous.

It felt less like a home and more like a luxury hotel suite.

"Is this your only residence in the southern city?" Tang Yun couldn't help but ask.

Clearly past the earlier awkwardness, Kuang Yanhe, now unwrapping another parcel, replied without hesitation, "No, when I travel to more distant project sites, I stay in hotels."

As Tang Yun knelt to help, he asked, "Always alone?"

Sensing an underlying inquiry, Kuang Yanhe met Tang Yun's gaze with profound intent, "If you want to know something, you can be more direct."

Deciding to be straightforward, Tang Yun asked, "Do you have a girlfriend?"

The corner of Kuang Yanhe's lips curled slightly, seemingly anticipating the question, and he replied crisply, "No. Hence, I'm unsure who these items are intended for."

As he spoke, he stared intently at Tang Yun, making the latter feel a bit self-conscious. Tang Yun looked down, murmuring an acknowledging "Oh."

"You don’t look the part, though."

"Why not? I am quite innocent," Kuang Yanhe smirked, a deep amusement evident in his eyes. It seemed as if he found the term “innocent” hilariously unsuited to himself.

Tang Yun rolled his eyes, laughing, "A drunk will never admit they're intoxicated, a criminal won't confess to their crimes, and those who loudly proclaim their innocence are often the wildest in private. It's a pattern I've observed."

The remark was a bit audacious given their current rapport. Regretting it immediately, Tang Yun was surprised when Kuang Yanhe, far from taking offense, leaned back on the couch, laughing heartily, undisturbed by the pointed comment.

Once his laughter subsided, Kuang Yanhe leaned forward, eyes piercing, "And what kind of person is Lawyer Tang?"

Tang Yun struggled to define himself.

"Haven’t I already shared my romantic history with you?" There was a tinge of complaint in his voice since Kuang Yanhe, ever the vault, hadn't divulged his own romantic past.

Kuang Yanhe's teeth were misaligned, pulling the jawline askew to one side. It was an unmistakable sign of annoyance. "It's a one-sided story; who knows what might have been concealed?"

Oddly, having met only twice, Tang Yun felt as if Kuang could see right through him, as if under a microscope, scrutinizing him inside and out. Could this be the legendary acumen of the 'Sea King'?

Tang Yun remained silent, helping him unwrap the remaining packages. The last large box contained a brand new non-stick pan, probably a gift from a sponsor.

"Do you cook?" asked Tang Yun, noticing existing cookware on the island counter and placing the new pan in a cabinet.

"Honestly, no," replied Kuang Yanhe, then counter-asking, "Do you always cook for yourself at home?"

"I don't have a housekeeper, so of course, I cook for myself."

"Really?" Kuang raised an eyebrow, seeming intrigued, "What can you make?"

"Basically anything you can name, provided it's regular home cooking. I can't do intricate carvings on vegetables or anything, but I can cut an apple into a bunny shape."

Kuang pondered for a moment and said, "I'd like braised pork and sour soup fish."

These dishes were simple for Tang Yun, especially the braised pork, which Liang Song loved and frequently requested.

Sensing Kuang's unwavering gaze, Tang Yun anticipated his request and asked, "You don't want it right now, do you?"

"Yes," Kuang replied unabashedly, "There are ingredients in the fridge."

Tang Yun exclaimed, "But you just had a bowl of noodles, didn't you?"

"I have a big appetite," Kuang said, "and by the time you're done cooking, I should be ready for more."

"Well... alright then." Tang Yun didn't object. He'd rather showcase his culinary skills in front of a client than eat alone in front of the TV at home. At least with Kuang, there was pleasant company.

Upon opening the fridge, Tang Yun found plenty of ingredients, though some seemed a tad past their prime. Also, there was no cooking wine for removing the meaty smell or rock sugar to give the braised pork a glossy finish.

Kuang reached for his phone, "What else do you need? I can order some delivery."

"Tell them your preferred veggies for the sour soup fish, and choose sliced bass for the fish. Also, get some marinade..." Tang Yun rattled off a list, simultaneously taking out frozen chicken wings and pork belly from the freezer to defrost.

Noticing the price tag on the packaged chicken wings, Tang Yun remarked in surprise, "Seventy-five for six chicken wings?"

While Kuang was engrossed in choosing the bass, he paused, looking up to counter, "Is that expensive or cheap?"

Seeing the vacant and bewildered look in his eyes, Tang Yun was convinced he wasn't pretending.

"Of course it's expensive! Don't you check prices when you shop?"

"I do..."

Meaning he takes a glance at the total when paying.

Kuang Yanhe truly has little sense of individual food prices. When he shops, he abides by one principle: when faced with unfamiliar items, he'd rather buy the expensive one over the cheaper, believing that pricier items are less likely to be flawed.

This rule was instilled in him by his father, Kuang Jichong, who would rather spend his time on the golf course than comparing prices. He didn't care about overpaying as any loss taken on price could easily be recouped elsewhere.

This lifestyle subtly influenced Kuang Yanhe, making him accustomed to quickly selecting, ordering, and settling payments, saving time for more meaningful endeavors.

However, if someone around him offers shopping advice or coupon usage tips, he's happy to learn their money-saving strategies.

Like Yan Chu, who when in a good mood, would teach him how to use platform vouchers and point out cheaper manufacturer-direct purchase options.

Once, Yan Chu downloaded an app on his phone and shared a link in a group chat, asking everyone to help reduce the price. In less than ten minutes, he received a transfer of 600 yuan on WeChat, which was astonishing.

"For green onions, ginger, and garlic, you can get the combo pack; it's cheaper and won't spoil as quickly..." Teaching Kuang Yanhe to save felt like teaching his mother to use shopping apps: time-consuming. "Nevermind, I'll order," Tang Yun finally conceded.

Tang Yun was about to take out his own phone when Kuang Yanhe handed him his, saying, "For small amounts, there's no need for a password. Just pay directly. I feel a bit grimy and want to take a shower. I'll leave the rest to you, Attorney Tang."

Tang Yun was at a loss for words.

This was a bit too informal, wasn't it? They'd only met twice so far, right?

What if he ran off with Kuang Yanhe's phone, or peeked at private photos and sold confidential files?

As a senior executive of Xiang Heng, how could he be so unguarded?

Luckily, Tang Yun wasn't that kind of person.

With these thoughts, Tang Yun opened the shopping cart, replaced the items weighed by kilogram with a vegetable combo, and removed the exorbitantly priced organic vegetables that looked like a scam.

Kuang Yanhe's phone displayed a low battery warning. Tang Yun looked around but couldn't find a charger.

Just then, Kuang Yanhe stepped out from the bathroom and handed Tang Yun a small bottle, saying, "Can you help apply this? My face stings a bit from the water."

There was a faint abrasion on his face, barely noticeable with a hint of blood. But it was precisely this kind of wound that felt like a needle prick when in contact with water.

Tang Yun knew this feeling well, and nodded in acknowledgment, taking the bottle of liquid bandage from him.

He had only used adhesive bandages before, so he took a moment to study the instructions before approaching Kuang Yanhe, asking him to lower his head a bit.

Kuang Yanhe simply seated himself on the sofa, tilting his head back.

He didn’t close his eyes. When Tang Yun leaned over, their gazes accidentally met. Kuang Yanhe's amber irises were framed by long eyelashes, half-lidded as if he was still drowsy, giving off a hint of lethargy.

Tang Yun uncapped the bottle, carefully applying a thin layer over the wound, then hesitated, asking, “Is this how it’s done?”

“I’m not sure, you decide,” Kuang Yanhe replied.

Observing Kuang Yanhe’s flawless skin, free of acne and with neatly trimmed facial hair, Tang Yun teased, “Have you ever had any cosmetic treatments?”

Perhaps stung by the liquid, Kuang Yanhe squinted slightly, “What are you trying to imply?”

Tang Yun smiled, “Just saying you’re good-looking.”

“Didn’t you think I look...” Sharp? Kuang Yanhe nearly let the word slip, drawing a blank for a second.

Tang Yun secured the cap back on, “Think what?”

“Thought I had work done? I was under the impression you found my features... odd.” Kuang Yanhe diverted his gaze, conjuring up an excuse while internally pondering the sincerity behind Tang Yun's words.

Tang Yun laughed, “Are you silly? If I genuinely suspected, why would I confront you directly? Do you think our collaboration is going too smoothly?”

The liquid dried quickly. Kuang Yanhe touched it with his fingertip, examining it, then said, “I should go now.”

Tang Yun hastily asked, “Where’s your phone charger? It’s running low.”

After a brief recall, Kuang Yanhe clicked his tongue, “Left it at the sales office. But there should be one in the study, either on the computer desk or by the wall socket. Find it yourself.”

With that, he darted upstairs.

The study was on the ground floor, adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows that stood over three meters tall on two sides. The other two walls were lined with bookshelves. An office desk sat in the center, and a deep coffee-colored leather armchair leaned by a window. A half-read book and a thin blanket lay on the footstool, a gold filigree bookmark reflecting light.

It was the golden hour, and the room seemed enveloped in a warm, golden hue. Just one glance was a treat for the eyes.

In Tang Yun's mind, he visualized Kuang Yanhe sneaking moments of relaxation, lounging on the sofa, engrossed in the works of Hermann Hesse.

Would he discuss the books he reads with others? If so, who would be so privileged?

Upon finding the charger, Tang Yun didn't leave. Instead, he curiously admired the books that lined the walls. Many showed signs of being well-read, with various colored bookmarks peeking out, predominantly in the realms of literature, history, and social sciences.

Some books seemed newly unwrapped, emitting a faint ink scent reminiscent of a university library.

Empty spaces in the bookshelves held uniquely shaped candles. Some resembled half-destroyed Roman columns, others like praying angels—each exquisitely crafted.

Passing a dark glass cabinet, Tang Yun halted. Inside were several novels with LGBTQ+ themes. He was sure of this because each had been adapted into a film, all critically acclaimed and well-known even among straight audiences.

Kuang Yanhe's collection comprised the original novels from which these films were adapted, even including now out-of-print film CDs.

Tang Yun's heart began to race uncontrollably, as if resonating with a hidden kin, making his scalp tingle.

No wonder Kuang Yanhe had been so definitive when asked about a girlfriend, yet so evasive about romantic matters. Was he too shy to admit his orientation?

Even though Tang Yun knew he and Kuang Yanhe lived in different worlds and were unlikely to interact outside of work, deep down, he felt an overwhelming joy at possibly discovering a kindred spirit.

Kuang Yanhe took a quick shower. As he descended the stairs, Tang Yun was rinsing rice. It took him a while to find the rice in Kuang Yanhe's expansive kitchen.

"That was fast," he remarked casually.

Kuang Yanhe, not treating Tang Yun as a significant guest, was dressed casually—a drapey black nightgown exposing part of his clavicle, paired with summer sandals.

Although he didn't wash his hair, it was no longer as neat as it was during the day. Wet strands hung down, giving him a more down-to-earth vibe.

As he approached the counter, Tang Yun caught a scent of his body wash, reminiscent of the fresh burst from squeezing an orange peel.

Being gay, Tang Yun naturally found it hard not to let his imagination wander, especially now that Kuang Yanhe was on his suspected list.

He forced himself to avert his eyes from Kuang Yanhe's toned chest.

"Need help with anything?" Kuang Yanhe asked, moving even closer.

Turning around, Tang Yun placed the defrosted meat in the sink to wash. "Can you show me how to use that rice cooker? It's too high-tech for me."

"Of course."

Kuang Yanhe, not often cooking himself and given that the rice cooker was a recent purchase, struggled with its advanced features. Despite multiple attempts, he couldn't get it to start.

Reluctantly, he resorted to calling for external help.

After the housekeeper instructed him on using the rice cooker, she seemed slightly apprehensive, inquiring, "Do you plan on cooking at home by yourself?"

"Yes."

"Do you know how? Would you like me to come over and assist you? I happen to be free now."

"No need," Kuang Yanhe replied, "A friend is helping me."

"Oh, you have company..." The housekeeper sounded somewhat surprised but didn't pry further. "Alright then, call me if you need any assistance."

"Understood."

As Kuang Yanhe was operating the rice cooker, his phone was on speaker. Tang Yun, having heard their conversation, curiously inquired, "Was that your mother?"

"It's the housekeeper," Kuang Yanhe clarified. "My mom doesn't cook."

"Where do your parents reside?"

"In Beijing."

Tang Yun recalled that Kuang Yuhuai also lived in Beijing.

"With your family in Beijing, what brought you to Nancheng?"

"I was relocated here for work."

"I see," Tang Yun nodded, grasping his situation. "Does that mean you plan on returning to Beijing in the future?"

Kuang Yanhe wasn't certain about that.

Truth be told, he'd never settled in one city throughout his life. The sense of belonging or homesickness others often spoke of was foreign to him.

He was born in Heilongjiang in Northeast China. As a child, he lived with his grandparents. By primary school, his parents felt he was mature enough and relocated him to Shenzhen. Before completing his schooling there, his family moved again, this time to Beijing. He spent his high school years in private institutions.

During those years, every winter and summer break was spent in Russia, since his grandmother was Russian and both grandparents resided there.

He attended the University of Hong Kong for his undergraduate degree, then pursued further studies in the United States, eventually returning to China upon graduation.

After spending two years in Beijing, he was transferred to Nancheng to oversee the business operations in the East China region.

He felt like a wild creature, at home everywhere yet nowhere for long. Consequently, he found it hard to develop a deep attachment to any city. In fact, he saw little difference between living in a house and staying at a hotel.

Even after buying an apartment in the southern part of the city, he still didn’t think he'd stay there long. All the properties under his name were merely investments, and he'd sell them when he no longer wished to stay.

However, if given the choice, he'd like to remain in this city filled with warmth and humanity.

Kuang Yanhe wasn't sure of Tang Yun's intentions in asking the question, so he casually responded, "Perhaps."

Tang Yun usually cooked quickly, but with Kuang Yanhe assisting her today, things took much longer. It wasn't because he was distracted or they had much to talk about. It was because Kuang Yanhe, like a clumsy little child, was eager to help but often messed things up.

He managed to drop tomatoes and a chopping board, knocked Tang Yun's phone into the sink, and when asked to add a spoon of salt to the chicken wings and potatoes, he used a soup ladle to add an excessive amount. By the time Tang Yun tried to stop him, it was too late. The soup had to be thrown away and remade.

Had it been Liang Song, Tang Yun probably would've kicked him out by now. But in front of Kuang Yanhe, her patience seemed to expand endlessly, like an inflating balloon.

She kindly took the knife from Kuang Yanhe's hand and said, "I'll wash this. You watch the braised pork. Make sure it doesn't get burnt."

"Alright." And so, Kuang Yanhe checked the pot every thirty seconds, ensuring the meat wasn't burning.

Tang Yun originally planned to send Kuang Yanhe to sit on the sofa and watch TV. However, she couldn't resist a handsome man with a muscular chest, who politely and uncertainly asked, "Attorney Tang, is this alright?"

She felt as helpless as when a cute kitten nuzzles her with its forehead, like a piece of rock sugar melting into a pot of braised pork, dissolving in the repeated calls of "Attorney Tang."