Chapter 105

Chapter 105

Tang Qingqing was about to knock on the door when it opened, revealing a tall figure.

Holding the breakfast in her hand, Tang Qingqing said, "Brother, you haven't had breakfast yet, right? I bought you some meat buns and soy milk."

Zhai Hongyi stepped aside to open the door wider, inviting Tang Qingqing inside and taking the food from her hands.

Without any hesitation, he took a bun and started eating, while peeling an egg with his other hand.

"This bun tastes really good."

Tang Qingqing smiled, "I think it tastes very similar to the meat buns made by Chef Li."

"No wonder it feels so familiar; it does taste like Chef Li's cooking."

After peeling the egg, Zhai Hongyi handed it to Tang Qingqing.

"No need, I already ate before coming here."

Zhai Hongyi directly placed the egg in her hand, "You definitely didn't eat well at home."

This time, Tang Qingqing did not refuse. She looked around the room and asked:

"Did you sleep well here last night?"

"You know me; I can sleep soundly anywhere, even in the grass. We've slept in all sorts of places when we were out there together."

Tang Qingqing recalled the past and couldn't help but laugh, feeling even closer to him.

"I thought becoming a college student would change you."

"It's just for show."

Zhai Hongyi still ate as quickly as before, finishing the bun, egg, and soy milk in no time. After wiping his hands, he fetched his backpack.

"I brought something special for you. I didn't bring it yesterday because I was worried about running into your family."

Yesterday, Zhai Hongyi also brought gifts, but they were common items like fruits.

Both of them understood each other's situation, so there was no need to pretend.

Zhai Hongyi knew that Tang Qingqing did not have deep feelings for this family, so the gifts he prepared were quite ordinary.

"What is this?"

Tang Qingqing looked at the box Zhai Hongyi pulled out, which was only slightly larger than a palm, and asked curiously.

"Open it and see."

Tang Qingqing opened the box and was surprised, unsure if she was seeing correctly.

"This... This is a tape recorder? How can it be so small?!"

Current tape recorders were usually large, and fashionable young people liked carrying dual-speaker recorders to play music outside, feeling particularly cool.

Tang Qingqing had never seen such a compact and lightweight tape recorder, which would be very convenient to carry.

"This is a portable cassette player, also known as a Walkman, newly introduced from Japan. I also brought you English song tapes. Listening to English songs will help with your English studies."

"This is the headphone. Plug it in, and you can listen quietly without disturbing others."

Tang Qingqing was fascinated, examining it carefully, afraid of damaging it.

"Is this expensive?"

Without saying a word, Zhai Hongyi put the headphones on Tang Qingqing's ears and turned on the device.

"Listen to the rhythm..."

The melodious music slowly filled her ears, capturing her attention immediately.

Tang Qingqing listened to the entire song, then reluctantly removed the headphones.

"This song is beautiful; I've never heard anything like it before."

Zhai Hongyi smiled, "I knew you would like it. These tapes are highly praised abroad. The song you just heard has been around for over a decade but still sounds fresh. Here are some new ones; I think they're all great."

Tang Qingqing looked at the pile of tapes on the table, at least a dozen boxes.

Tapes were very expensive, especially those imported from abroad, which were even rarer.

"These are too valuable."

"Don't mention it. It's been years since we last met; don't act so distant."

Tang Qingqing: "But..."

"But what? Consider these as your eighteenth birthday gift. I was already abroad on your birthday, so consider this as an early celebration."

Due to changes in dates, Tang Qingqing's perceived birthday differed from her actual one. She decided to celebrate on December 1st.

In the village, they used to celebrate each other's birthdays, a tradition started by Zhai Hongyi.

Before, Tang Qingqing and Wang Heizi never thought of celebrating birthdays; having an extra egg on that day was considered a luxury.

In the village, birthdays were celebrated mostly for elderly people's longevity.

Zhai Hongyi, coming from the city with a better background, emphasized these occasions and encouraged them to do the same.

No matter whose birthday it is, a table full of delicious dishes will be prepared, and a bowl of longevity noodles will be made for the birthday person to eat.

Gifts are given according to one's heart's desire; they don't have to be expensive. Even a handful of foxtail grass can bring joy—it's all about the atmosphere.

After Zhai Hongyi left, they still remembered each other's birthdays every year, but the gifts were usually small trinkets. This was the first time he had sent something so valuable.

Tang Qingqing still felt uneasy, thinking the gift was too expensive and beyond her means.

"You've become so fussy since you grew up." Zhai Hongyi reached out and gently flicked Tang Qingqing's forehead.

"Do we need to be so formal? I only gave it to you because I thought it suited you, not because it was expensive. Besides, this amount of money doesn't mean much to me now; I've stocked up on plenty of goods."

Tang Qingqing finally accepted it. "Brother, thank you."

"What are you thanking me for?" Zhai Hongyi shook his head helplessly. "Now you realize how important Wang Heizi is. If he were here, I wouldn't have to say so much. It's exhausting."

Tang Qingqing couldn't help but laugh. "If he were here, he would definitely complain that you're favoring me."

"I haven't started favoring you just today; he's long gotten used to it."

Tang Qingqing could still sense that Zhai Hongyi had changed over the years; he was now more talkative than before.

The two of them took the camera Tang Jixue had rented and went out to continue exploring the city.

Yesterday, most of their time was spent shopping, leaving many places unvisited. Today, they could take photos of landmarks and visit museums.

Tang Qingqing also asked Tang Jixue for addresses of famous local eateries, so they could enjoy a good meal after playing.

"These places are new to me; I hope I won't get lost leading you." Tang Qingqing walked while looking at the map.

Zhai Hongyi took the map from her hand. "With me here, we won't get lost."

"I forgot which bus to take."

"Bus number 8."

"How do you know?"

"I studied the map yesterday and memorized everything." Zhai Hongyi pointed to his head.

Tang Qingqing gave him a thumbs-up. "Brother, your memory is incredible. You actually remembered everything."

"Don't praise me; your memory is even scarier. Besides, if I didn't remember the routes, we'd get lost countless times like before."

Tang Qingqing would follow trails without hesitation, sometimes not even knowing where she ended up.

That's when Zhai Hongyi's role as a bodyguard came into play. He was a living map, remembering every route he walked.

Speaking of which, Zhai Hongyi couldn't help reminding her, "Now that you're alone, be careful when tracking. There are many cars in the city, and suddenly dashing across can easily lead to accidents. Be cautious."

Tang Qingqing looked embarrassed. "I'll try my best."

She wasn't unaware of the risks, but once focused on work, she often forgot her surroundings.

Tang Zhenzhen hid behind a tree, watching Tang Qingqing and a tall, handsome man walk out of the guesthouse, stunned.

Tang Jixue hadn't lied! This Zhai Hongyi was indeed an outstanding man.

Not only was he handsome, but his demeanor also revealed his exceptional nature.

His appearance was sharp, yet his gaze softened when facing Tang Qingqing.

Tang Zhenzhen's heart skipped a beat. His presence was incredibly strong, rivaling the male protagonist she met yesterday!

In the world of novels, the male protagonist is the most charming person, overshadowing any supporting characters. That's the rule of romance novels.

But now, there was a man who matched the protagonist's charisma, making Tang Zhenzhen feel extremely uncomfortable.

What was even harder to accept was that the female protagonist, having lost the male protagonist, found another man equally impressive. Who was the real protagonist in this world?

Tang Zhenzhen was furious. The system had brought her here, yet why wasn't she the absolute protagonist?

She worked hard to gain everything, while the female protagonist, being the daughter, effortlessly obtained what she struggled for. It was unfair, terribly unfair!

Tang Zhenzhen's fingers dug into the bark, breaking her delicate skin without her noticing.

Why did she always have to struggle to reach others' starting line, no matter where she was?

She thought gaining the female protagonist's life would change things, but seeing Tang Qingqing now, she realized the world was still unfair to her!

Tang Zhenzhen looked at Tang Qingqing with jealousy.

Tang Qingqing was becoming more like the girl she hated most in her past life—a born princess, with a good family background, good looks, and a wealthy, handsome boyfriend.

Meanwhile, she had always been ordinary, unable to excel despite her efforts.

Coming to this world, she thought she would finally be favored by fate, but she was too naive!

She had tried so hard to become the protagonist, yet why did someone like Tang Qingqing still exist, blessed by destiny!

Seeing the bus number 8 approaching, Tang Qingqing grabbed Zhai Hongyi and ran towards the bus stop, but he remained rooted to the spot.

Zhai Hongyi's sharp eyes scanned a direction, narrowing slightly.

"What's wrong?" Tang Qingqing looked at him suspiciously, then followed his gaze but saw nothing.

Zhai Hongyi regained his composure. "I sensed someone watching us, with unfriendly intent. It seems to be targeting you. Be careful."

Tang Qingqing's expression turned serious. "Recently, our city has experienced a series of murders..."

Zhai Hongyi was slightly taken aback and shook his head, saying, "It shouldn't have anything to do with this matter."

Tang Qingqing sighed in relief but also felt a bit regretful.

"If only the murderer were here."

Zhai Hongyi couldn't help but laugh and lightly tapped her forehead.

"If you keep talking nonsense, I'll tell your master on you."

Tang Qingqing couldn't help but laugh, "Have you been possessed by Tang Xingqiang?"

"Stop being so cheeky. If you really encounter someone suspicious, don't act rashly; go find the police first. You must not act alone."

Zhai Hongyi paused for a moment, emphasizing, "Even bringing your brother along is not allowed."

"I got it, I got it. Why have you become so naggy? The bus is here, let's get on quickly."

Tang Qingqing pushed Zhai Hongyi towards the bus. This stop was particularly crowded, and if they didn't hurry, they wouldn't be able to get on.

After taking a few steps, Zhai Hongyi pulled Tang Qingqing in front of him, shielding her from the crowd with his arms.

At 1.88 meters tall, Zhai Hongyi was very noticeable and imposing. Even the pushy aunties moved slightly to the side, not daring to push in his direction.

Not only was Zhai Hongyi tall and strong, he also exuded an aura that made people wary of provoking him.

The seats were already taken due to the large crowd. Zhai Hongyi bought tickets and led Tang Qingqing to the back, protecting her from the crowd, ensuring no one could bump into her.

As the bus started moving, it swayed back and forth. Tang Qingqing felt a warm embrace touching her back occasionally and sensed warm breath above her head.

Although Zhai Hongyi tried to maintain some distance, the bus was too crowded, making physical contact inevitable.

Tang Qingqing had often taken the bus while going to art classes and encountered crowded situations before. But for some reason, the contact with Zhai Hongyi made her feel a slight heat, and her face began to flush.

"Hey, isn't that Qingqing?" An old lady sitting diagonally behind them suddenly called out loudly.

The bus was noisy, so her voice, though loud, did not seem out of place.

Tang Qingqing looked over and smiled at the old lady.

The old lady was the first person who spoke to Tang Qingqing during morning exercises. She was very talkative and enjoyed chatting with Tang Qingqing about everyday life.

"Qingqing, come sit with me. We can squeeze together," the old lady invited.

Tang Qingqing smiled and shook her head, "Grandma Liu, it's okay. I'm fine standing."

"Standing is so crowded. Come sit with me; it'll be more comfortable."

Zhai Hongyi felt Grandma Liu's gaze and lowered his head slightly, asking, "Do you want to go over? It's still a long ride."

"No need. Standing is fine."

Grandma Liu looked back and forth between them, "Qingqing, is this young man with you?"

"Yes."

Grandma Liu seemed to realize something, "So he's your boyfriend, then you should stand."

Tang Qingqing's already flushed face turned even redder.

"Grandma Liu, he's just my friend."

Grandma Liu gave her a look as if she was still hiding something but did not argue, saying dismissively, "Alright, whatever you say."

Tang Qingqing was left speechless, unsure what to say.

When they got off the bus, Tang Qingqing still felt a bit awkward.

She had been the subject of gossip before, but it never bothered her. Now, for some reason, she couldn't remain as calm as before.

This was probably the trouble of growing up, unlike the simplicity of childhood.

Zhai Hongyi remained calm, as if he hadn't heard the old lady's words, leading Tang Qingqing to transfer buses and continue to their destination.

Zhai Hongyi's composure helped Tang Qingqing relax, pushing aside the awkwardness of being alone with him.

Tang Qingqing thought she had done enough research, but upon arrival, she realized that Zhai Hongyi had done much more.

He seemed like a local, knowing all about the attractions, their history, development, and related legends.

"How do you know so much?"

"I read books and articles about Yang City before coming here. I have a good understanding of the place."

"You read about it before coming here?"

Tang Qingqing was surprised by Zhai Hongyi's thorough preparation. Such a vast amount of knowledge couldn't have been acquired in just a day or two.

"When you decided to come to Yang City."

Tang Qingqing looked at Zhai Hongyi in surprise.

Zhai Hongyi rubbed his nose, "I couldn't come over at the time, so reading relevant materials gave me more confidence."

Tang Qingqing couldn't help but laugh, feeling happy to have so many caring people around her.

Alone in this unfamiliar city, having to interact with strangers, one of whom harbors hostility toward her, she naturally feels apprehensive.

Her ability to face people and situations calmly stems from knowing that she has support and options.

"Will you develop your career in the south in the future?"

Zhai Hongyi gazes into the distance: "The south will be my foundation, but I won't easily withdraw from the capital either."

Tang Qingqing nods, not pressing further.

As long as she is certain that Zhai Hongyi won't completely leave the capital, it's fine. Otherwise, if she just transfers there and he graduates and leaves, they would miss each other again.

Before Zhai Hongyi arrived, Tang Qingqing felt that life in Yang City was quite good.

She had made new friends and adapted to life here.

Each day was fulfilling, seemingly no different from before.

But when she saw Zhai Hongyi, she realized how vastly different things were.

In the countryside, although conditions were tough and there were people she disliked constantly causing trouble,

Tang Qingqing had Zhai Hongyi, Wang Heizi, her master, and Uncle and Auntie, which made all the difference.

Here, she feels no sense of belonging; even the best life cannot replace that feeling.

Thinking about four more years of university after high school, she can't help feeling upset that she can't bring Old Liu to her side.

If Zhai Hongyi were in the capital, that sense of loneliness would diminish significantly.

They spent the entire day outside before returning home, and Tang Qingqing gained a deeper understanding of the city.

Yang City has a long history, and through Zhai Hongyi's narration, Tang Qingqing felt its charm even more.

Zhai Hongyi escorts Tang Qingqing to the door and says, "I have an early train tomorrow, so you don't need to come see me off."

Tang Qingqing frowns, "How can that be? It's not that early anyway."

"I don't like being seen off."

Tang Qingqing looks at Zhai Hongyi, puzzled, "Why?"

"I don't like seeing someone standing alone. It feels terrible."

Zhai Hongyi doesn't say that the person left behind takes a long time to recover, and the image of a solitary figure on the platform lingers in his mind, unsettling him for a long time.

Previously, when he was forcibly taken away, though angry, he avoided the pain of parting.

He detests scenes of departure, as they evoke many unpleasant memories.

Even if they will meet soon, Zhai Hongyi still dislikes the lingering farewells.

Hearing this, Tang Qingqing recalls her master's silhouette in the mountains when she left, instantly understanding Zhai Hongyi's feelings.

"Alright."

"Don't be sad, we'll see each other during the New Year."

Tang Qingqing smiles at him, her eyes reddening and her voice choking up.

"We promised, you better not break your word, or I'll bring Wang Heizi to find you."

"It's a deal."

"It's a deal."

Zhai Hongyi lets her enter first, waving goodbye only after she opens the door.

When Tang Qingqing enters, she sees the room full of people, a rare gathering of the family.

Seeing her, Tang Zhenzhen jumps up from the sofa, skipping to the door, saying:

"Sis, you're back? Where's your friend? Why didn't he see you home?"

Tang Zhenzhen catches a glimpse of Zhai Hongyi through the crack in the door, about to say something, when Tang Qingqing slams it shut, nearly hitting Tang Zhenzhen.

"Sis! You scared me!"

Tang Qingqing ignores her, nodding slightly to those in the living room as a greeting.

Tang Zhenzhen pouts, "Sis, your friend is right at the door. Why didn't you invite him in? Mom and Dad are home, and any friend should greet the elders."

Tang Qingqing, in no mood for small talk, walks past her.

Tang Jixue approaches, looking out the window:

"Brother Yi left?"

"Yeah."

"Pity he was in such a rush. I didn't get a chance to ask him many questions." Tang Jixue laments.

"There will be other opportunities."

Tang Qingqing pulls out a camera from her pocket and hands it to Tang Jixue, "Third Brother, could you return this camera? I don't know where the photo shop is."

"Give me the film rolls too, I'll develop them together. That shop does great work at fair prices."

Tang Qingqing takes out several film rolls from her pocket and hands them to Tang Jixue.

"Third Brother, let me know how much it is later."

Tang Jixue gave her an annoyed look. "Would I take your money? What are you thinking!"

Tang Zhenzhen kept staring at Tang Qingqing. When Tang Qingqing was searching her pockets, Tang Zhenzhen watched closely and noticed that she had many things inside, including what seemed to be tapes?

Tang Jixue saw this too, glanced curiously, but said nothing.

Tang Zhenzhen pursed her lips, then put on a smile and, with an innocent expression, asked Tang Qingqing:

"Sis, are you tired from playing today? Let me carry your things... Ah—ow, ow, let go! Third Brother, help me..."

Tang Zhenzhen tried to grab the bag from Tang Qingqing's hand. Tang Qingqing sidestepped and then grabbed her wrist, pressing hard on a nerve point, causing Tang Zhenzhen to scream in pain and beg for mercy.

This move was something Tang Qingqing had learned from Zhai Hongyi before, and it was the first time she used it.

Tang Zhenzhen felt both pain and numbness, her pretty face contorted, and cold sweat broke out on her forehead.

Tang Qingqing twisted her wrist forcefully and said coldly, "Don't touch what doesn't belong to you!"