Chapter 91

Chapter 91

Understanding that Xu Xun was feeling regretful, Shen Tingzhou looked into his eyes and said—

"I think meeting you was the most beautiful phase of my life."

He met Xu Xun at the best time, and together they were greater than the sum of their parts. Moreover, if he had really met Xu Xun in high school, he might not have even noticed this kid.

Of course, Shen Tingzhou dared not say such honest words to Xu Xun's face.

He quickly kissed Xu Xun. "Alright, let's eat."

Xu Xun suddenly said, "In a while, Auntie and the others will be back from Antarctica."

Shen Tingzhou's foot paused mid-step as he stared blankly at Xu Xun. "When did they tell you?"

"This morning," Xu Xun said naturally. "They're coming back to discuss our wedding."

Shen Tingzhou's eyes flickered. "…Oh."

Now it was Xu Xun's turn to say, "Alright, let's eat."

Shen Tingzhou was dragged into the dining room by Xu Xun and remained preoccupied with a question even after sitting down.

"How did you know I saw Song Qingning?" Shen Tingzhou asked curiously. "Does he have some special scent?"

The Steward revealed the truth, "He tricked you."

Shen Tingzhou had been settling accounts with the landlord's old lady today, so the chance of running into Song Qingning in the neighborhood was quite high.

Caught in the act, Xu Xun looked perfectly innocent as he got up to serve Shen Tingzhou a bowl of soup.

...Well, alright then.

Shen Tingzhou accepted the bowl of soup from Xu Xun, tasted it, and nodded in approval. "Today's soup is really good."

Xu Xun served him more food. "I made it specially for you."

Shen Tingzhou enjoyed being taken care of by the domestic Xu Xun, and the Steward, unusually silent, probably because Xu Xun had agreed to change his name.

That evening, when Shen Tingzhou came out of the bathroom, Xu Xun was unpacking an afternoon delivery.

Shen Tingzhou didn't pay much attention until Xu Xun pulled out a high school uniform.

Shen Tingzhou: ...

Xu Xun said nothing, just looked at Shen Tingzhou with a sticky gaze.

Shen Tingzhou's lips twitched. "I think..."

Xu Xun interrupted him. "I bought you new clothes. Do you want to try them on?"

Shen Tingzhou: "...Can I try them on under the bed instead of on the bed?"

Xu Xun nodded, looking innocent.

After hesitating for a moment, Shen Tingzhou put on the uniform, feeling somewhat awkward, like an old cucumber trying to look fresh.

But when Xu Xun saw Shen Tingzhou in the high school uniform, his throat moved, and he slowly walked over.

Xiao Xu kept his word; Shen Tingzhou indeed didn't wear the clothes to bed.

-

Because Xu Xun mentioned marriage, Shen Tingzhou started paying attention to wedding-related information.

Afraid of shocking his aunt Shen Zhiyun, Shen Tingzhou gave her a heads-up.

Unexpectedly, Shen Zhiyun knew earlier, as Shen's parents had already inquired about Xu Xun.

Shen Zhiyun gave Xu Xun a very high evaluation, which matched the impression Shen's parents had of Xu Xun. Therefore, even though Xu Xun was a man, they agreed to the relationship.

It must be said that Xiao Xu had a strong ability to win people over!

Shen Tingzhou's parents would likely return before the Antarctic polar night, around mid-March.

Early March was the full moon banquet for Su Yu and Yu Mingyan's daughter.

As the godfather, Shen Tingzhou not only gave a large red envelope but also customarily crafted a longevity lock and two small gold bracelets for the baby.

Qin Shiyao somehow heard about this and encouraged Shen Tingzhou to have the full moon banquet at her hotel.

"Hua District is a magical place where many incredible things happen. But they are quite exclusive, and I haven't seen it myself. I really want to witness it."

As someone who had seen it, Shen Tingzhou felt it was better not to experience it again.

Knowing Qin Shiyao's troublemaking nature, Shen Tingzhou politely declined. "I can't make decisions about such matters."

Qin Shiyao was a bit disappointed but didn't push further.

The full moon banquet was eventually held at the old residence of the Yu family.

Yu Mingyan and Yu Jurong's parents had passed away long ago, and now the household was managed by Uncle Yu Er.

However, after Yu Mingyan began managing the company, Uncle Yu Er gradually stepped back and stayed home, rarely going out due to illness.

Recently, Uncle Yu Er's marriage had caused a stir on the Hua District forum, which Yu Jurong resolved by deleting all related posts.

Now, the person involved was standing right in front of Shen Tingzhou.

Lin Tang poked the baby's cheek, marveling, "Her face is so soft, her eyes are bright and big, and she smells like milk."

Su Yu said, "If you like, you can have one with Uncle Er."

Lin Tang instantly pulled back her hand and said disdainfully, "No way. Besides, I'm about to divorce him."

To be honest, Shen Tingzhou thought they had already divorced.

The last time Lin Tang confidently declared on the forum that she would definitely divorce him, it had been several months now, yet they were still together. Could it be that the cooling-off period for divorce in Huaqiu District is longer than outside?

Su Yu and Qin Shiyao are of the same type; only chaos can add some excitement to their lives.

Su Yu fanned the flames, "But you've been saying you want a divorce for a long time, and you still haven't done it."

Lin Tang is younger than Su Yu and can't stand being provoked.

Just then, Yu Jurong wheeled Uncle Er into the room, and Lin Tang immediately pointed at him, "I want a divorce with you!"

Yu Jurong glanced at Su Yu, clicked his tongue, and then left the room.

Uncle Er seemed to be used to this; he didn't even raise an eyebrow upon hearing those words, remaining indifferent.

Lin Tang, who is much younger than him, usually relies on his seniority to treat their marriage like a parent-child relationship. Now, he doesn't even give her any face, which makes Lin Tang even angrier.

She kicked Uncle Er's wheelchair hard, "I told you I want a divorce, did you hear me?"

Uncle Er finally reacted, looking up at her with a deep gaze.

Lin Tang's eyes flickered, and she continued to vent her anger, "What are you looking at? You're old and ugly. Marrying me was your good fortune in a past life. If you don't cherish it, there are plenty of people outside who know my worth."

As a man admired by many in Huaqiu District, Uncle Er's looks are naturally impressive, far from old or ugly.

Perhaps staying with Qin Shiyao and the others for too long has corrupted Shen Tingzhou.

Upon hearing Lin Tang's words, Shen Tingzhou's first reaction was—she didn't insult Uncle Er's disability; she must really love him!

Shen Tingzhou, unexpectedly becoming a shipper: ...

Seeing Shen Tingzhou's unusual expression, Su Yu comforted him, "Doctor Shen, you don't need to feel awkward. Don't worry, they won't divorce."

Shen Tingzhou: ... Is pouring oil on the fire really helpful?

Lin Tang's anger flared even higher, "Who said we won't divorce? Mr. Yu, if you dare say no to the divorce, I... I'll go out right now and make you wear a green hat!"

Uncle Er pursed his thin lips and looked at her calmly.

Seeing his lack of reaction, Lin Tang became even more annoyed, "I mean it!"

Finally, Uncle Er spoke, his voice cold and clear, "Then let's go."

Lin Tang was taken aback, seeing him wheel himself out. She gritted her teeth and followed him.

Are they really going to get a divorce?

Su Yu said, "They won't."

Shen Tingzhou was startled and turned to look at Su Yu.

Su Yu repeated, "They won't divorce."

Shen Tingzhou felt that someone as cool and detached as Uncle Er wouldn't choose to live with someone so different from himself, causing such trouble.

But Su Yu is always accurate in his predictions, while Shen Tingzhou's intuition is useless.

Su Yu's gaze slid to the ring on Shen Tingzhou's hand, "Mr. Xu must dislike me very much, right?"

Shen Tingzhou's mind instantly tightened, "No."

Su Yu asked sadly, "Then why isn't he here today? I agreed to be the second wife, what else could he be unhappy about?"

Shen Tingzhou ignored the latter part and explained for Xu Xun, "He went to the company today."

At that moment, the door suddenly opened, and a head peeked in.

It was a cat-like young man whom Shen Tingzhou recognized as Yu Mingyan's younger cousin. He once complained on the Huaqiu District forum about his straight roommate not liking him.

Everyone gave him advice to seduce the roommate.

The young cousin, with his round, dull eyes, called out, "Brother Yu."

He walked in and saw the baby lying in the egg-shaped cradle, showing the same incredulity as Lin Tang, "She's so cute, all pink and chubby. Her eyes look just like yours."

Su Yu glanced at Shen Tingzhou, who couldn't resist cat-like faces, and deliberately asked, "Does she look like Doctor Shen?"

The young cousin was confused, who is Doctor Shen?

He clearly forgot that he had seen Shen Tingzhou at Su Yu's house before, but that was a long time ago.

Shen Tingzhou instantly withdrew his affectionate gaze and maintained his composure, "I'll go to the restroom."

"Go ahead, Doctor Shen," Su Yu emphasized Shen Tingzhou's title.

The young cousin looked at Shen Tingzhou, his eyes full of surprise.

Why does the child look like Doctor Shen?

Shen Tingzhou strode out of the room, where a tall and upright figure stood.

The person saw Shen Tingzhou and politely nodded at him.

Shen Tingzhou recognized him immediately—it was the young cousin's straight roommate. Shen Tingzhou nodded back and then left.

-

The old residence of the Yu family blended Chinese and Western architectural styles.

The courtyard was filled with lush green plants, and it being spring, many flowers were in bloom, covering the flower trellis with evergreen vines.

Shen Tingzhou went out for some fresh air, attracted by the pleasant scenery and the seating area nearby.

Upon approaching, he realized there was someone else on the other side of the green vines.

"Asshole, turn it off, did you hear me!" The words were harsh, but the voice sounded moist and soft.

The person beside him chuckled softly. "It's not set very high; if you don't believe me, check for yourself."

Shen Tingzhou initially had no idea what they were talking about until the man with the moist voice snatched something from another man, causing it to fly out accidentally.

Seeing an object resembling a remote control, Shen Tingzhou took two seconds to react.

Realizing what it was based on their previous conversation, Shen Tingzhou felt a chill run down his spine.

Help!

Without hesitation, he turned and ran in the opposite direction.

After running a considerable distance, Shen Tingzhou stopped, but just as the embarrassment began to fade, he saw two familiar faces nearby.

Su Qiang, looking annoyed, and the eldest brother, looking shy.

"That night we were already... so close..." The eldest brother held Su Qiang's hand earnestly. "Qiang Qiang, let's get married."

Su Qiang brushed his hand away. "Stop being so mushy. It's just one night together, what's the big deal?"

The eldest brother immediately looked hurt.

But he was no longer the old Zhang Lang; he had become the transformed Zhang Lang, the Niuhulu Zhang Lang.

Thanks to Su Yu's advice, Zhang Lang knew the most effective way to communicate with Su Qiang.

"Qiang Qiang, wouldn't you want a grander wedding than Su Yu's? To have a cuter child than his?"

Su Qiang showed signs of wavering.

The eldest brother continued to press his advantage. "Ever since Su Yu had a child, how much more attention has Uncle Su given him? Without a child, you can't compete with him! I'm willing to have all our children take your surname, they must take your surname!"

Shen Tingzhou: ...

Wasn't the probability of men in this district having children so high?

Convinced by the eldest brother, Su Qiang was about to nod in agreement when he spotted Shen Tingzhou ahead, and his eyes instantly lit up.

He had the means to raise a child without needing another father.

If it were a child without a father...

Su Qiang stood up abruptly and shouted at Shen Tingzhou, "Doctor Shen, let's have a child together!"

If he had a child with Shen Tingzhou, that damn fish would be furious.

The thwarted eldest brother staggered, then stared straight at Shen Tingzhou.

Faced with Su Qiang's expectant gaze and Zhang Lang's despair, Shen Tingzhou took two steps back.

Su Qiang assured Shen Tingzhou, "I won't tell Xu Xun about this."

Zhang Lang's jealousy twisted his face, grinding his teeth at the speed of a bullet train, almost foaming at the mouth.

Help!

Shen Tingzhou once again fled, fearing Su Qiang might chase after him, and hurriedly hid in a small white building.

Leaning against the door, Shen Tingzhou caught his breath after a while.

Su Qiang and Zhang Lang followed, and their conversation made Shen Tingzhou's head ache.

Su Qiang was clearly displeased. "Why are you so petty? I've already agreed to marry you. Even though the child is Doctor Shen's, the one standing beside me at the altar will be you."

Zhang Lang felt wronged.

Zhang Lang felt hurt.

In the end... Zhang Lang compromised.

"As long as you're happy." Zhang Lang clasped Su Qiang's hand to his chest. "I'll do anything for you, Qiang Qiang!"

Shen Tingzhou: ... Is the eldest brother really that humble?

Not wanting to be a third wheel, Shen Tingzhou quietly moved deeper into the house.

Outside, Zhang Lang pointed at the white building. "Should we check inside here?"

Su Qiang stopped him. "This is the studio of Yu Mingyan's second uncle; let's look elsewhere."

As soon as they left, Shen Tingzhou, red-faced and flustered, rushed out.

For the rest of the day, Shen Tingzhou stayed close to Su Yu, not venturing anywhere else.

Even more obedient than Shen Tingzhou was Lin Tang. When she reappeared, she looked embarrassed and subdued, no longer mentioning divorce.

When Lin Tang touched the baby's face, her head bowed, revealing a patch of uneven hickeys on her neck.

Shen Tingzhou kept his eyes focused, sitting upright, never letting his gaze wander.

When everyone had left, Su Yu asked with a smile, "Did something happen on your trip out? You seem so well-behaved, Doctor Shen."

Shen Tingzhou avoided Su Yu's gaze, "…No."

Having been busy entertaining guests all day, Yu Mingyan finally found the time to come and see Su Yu and the child.

He ruffled Su Yu's hair, his eyes softening, "Are you tired?"

Su Yu replied meaningfully, "I'm not tired, but Doctor Shen is very tired."

Yu Mingyan glanced at Shen Tingzhou.

Su Yu added what he hadn't finished saying, "It seems like Doctor Shen encountered a lot today."

Yu Mingyan played along, showing just the right amount of apology, "Doctor Shen's constitution really isn't suited for our home."

Shen Tingzhou: !

Has my penchant for getting into trouble become that well-known?

Su Yu leaned his head against Yu Mingyan, "Doctor Shen said that when he and Xiao Xu get married, he wants us to join in."

Yu Mingyan relaxed his shoulders, allowing Su Yu to lie more comfortably, "Then I'll arrange for wedding outfits."

Su Yu: "Doctor Shen said that on their wedding night, we should all sleep together."

Yu Mingyan: "Alright."

Su Yu: "Doctor Shen also said..."

Shen Tingzhou: Stop it! I'm mute!

-

At this full moon banquet, Shen Tingzhou was more exhausted than Su Yu and Yu Mingyan combined.

In the afternoon, Xu Xun came to pick him up. Shen Tingzhou sighed deeply as he got into the car.

Xu Xun looked over, "What's wrong?"

Shen Tingzhou rubbed his temples, "Nothing, I just want to go home quickly."

Too many things had happened today, and they were too... Shen Tingzhou didn't want to taint the innocent Xiao Xu. After all, not everyone was like Qin Shiyao, who loved visiting the Flower District.

Xu Xun massaged Shen Tingzhou's temples, subtly criticizing, "Isn't Mr. Su's family situation a bit complicated?"

Not a bit, but very complicated.

But Shen Tingzhou always tried to be kind: "It's okay."

Xu Xun made a soft sound through his nose.

Shen Tingzhou looked over, and Xu Xun's eyes revealed innocence. Shen Tingzhou wondered if he had misheard, but then he saw two people playing outside the car window.

Yu Mingyan's younger cousin jumped onto his roommate's back, who didn't say anything but instead held onto his knee pits.

The cousin bit the roommate's ear, laughing without saying anything, exuding youthful energy.

The roommate's ear turned red instantly, and the cousin laughed again, biting the other ear, which also turned red quickly.

Watching the affectionate couple, Shen Tingzhou couldn't help but smile slightly.

The next moment, a hand covered his eyes, leaving Shen Tingzhou puzzled.

He asked, "What's wrong?"

Xu Xun said, "He looks like a cat."

Shen Tingzhou took a few seconds to react, feeling both amused and exasperated, "He's just a kid, and he has a partner."

"But he looks like a cat," Xu Xun emphasized, speaking close to Shen Tingzhou's ear, "Don't look!"

Shen Tingzhou: ...

Author's Note:

All the plot threads are almost wrapped up, and the next chapter will be the final one.

I noticed everyone was curious about Su Yu and Doctor Shen's first meeting. I wrote about it in Chapter 13 of the main text.

Su Yu is very perceptive; he could tell that Doctor Shen was a good person at first sight, so he hired him as the family doctor.

During their interactions, Su Yu discovered that Doctor Shen was upright and conservative, so he often teased him, with Yu Mingyan playing along.

In earlier chapters, when Su Yu was wheeled out of the delivery room, Yu Mingyan said, "Thank you for your hard work."

At that time, Su Yu asked, "Does the baby look like Doctor Shen?"

This was a subtle way of telling Yu Mingyan, "I'm fine, see, I still have the energy to tease Doctor Shen."

So Yu Mingyan's reaction was to smile.

They are deeply in love, embodying the dynamic of "he creates chaos, and he smiles." They are the only confirmed couple in this story besides the main characters.