Chapter 36: Holding Hands and Exposure

Chapter 36: Holding Hands & Getting Caught

At around five o'clock, Zhong Chen arrived. Song Chuqing, bubbling with excitement, personally saw them to the door, her smile sweet. "Bye, Daddy! Bye, Mommy! Come back early, okay?"

Song Tan playfully pinched her cheek—this little imp was wise beyond her years.

Ji Fuxi drove, with Song Tan in the passenger seat.

Alone together in the car, she felt a slight awkwardness. Once they were on the road, she broke the silence. "What are we watching?"

"Zhuang Cheng said the recent releases are all pretty good. See if anything catches your eye. If not, I can arrange something else."

Song Tan scrolled through her phone. Both options were romance films: a youthful romantic comedy and a marriage drama. Not in the mood for anything too heavy, she tapped on the romantic comedy.

The soonest showing was in thirty minutes, with hardly any good seats left. Song Tan turned to him. "Let’s go for the 8:30 one."

"Sure." Ji Fuxi gripped the steering wheel. "Wanna grab a bite first?"

"Mhm."

"What do you feel like having?"

Given their identities, dining out was always a challenge, limiting them to upscale establishments. Today, however, Song Tan suddenly craved something different. After a moment’s thought, she looked at him again. "Let’s switch it up today."

"Okay."

Song Tan directly typed the destination into the car’s navigation. Ji Fuxi glanced at it and frowned. A college town?

Twenty minutes later, they arrived. Song Tan pulled out a mask from her bag and handed it to him. "We’ll grab food to go."

They were still covered head to toe—masks, glasses, hats. If anyone recognized her like this, she’d suspect them of having superpowers.

The moment they stepped out, Ji Fuxi surveyed the dimly lit streets and the bustling crowds, his frown deepening.

Song Tan knew he was uncomfortable and offered reassurance. "Hang in there, Mr. Ji. It’ll be quick."

Suppressing his discomfort, Ji Fuxi followed her forward.

On a Sunday evening, the university district’s food street buzzed with students in their early twenties, radiating youthful energy.

Song Tan’s mood lifted considerably as she chatted with him. "I didn’t actually spend much time in university. From my sophomore year, I followed Ge Yun to film sets, bouncing between productions. But food streets like this are pretty much the same everywhere."

"When I was an extra, the set meals were terrible. There were always vendors outside the studios, so the other bit-part actors and I would sneak out to buy snacks—grilled sausages, fried chicken, stir-fried noodles, skewers… they smelled amazing."

"Once, I waited too long for skewers and lost track of time. When I got back, the crew assistant ripped into me. But looking back now, I actually miss those days—so tired I’d pass out as soon as I lay down, waking up and getting straight to work. Life was simple."

"Later, when I gained some fame, I had to watch my weight and couldn’t eat these high-fat, high-calorie foods anymore."

The further in they walked, the richer the aromas became, and Song Tan grew even more excited.

Ji Fuxi was around 185 cm tall, while she stood at 170 cm. She had to tilt her head slightly to talk to him. "You’ve never had this kind of food, have you, Mr. Ji?"

His answer was firm. "No."

Song Tan didn’t press him. "Then just think of it as accompanying me. It’s been years since I’ve had this. I missed this taste so much during my five years abroad."

Ji Fuxi looked down at her—her eyes darted around eagerly, lit up with anticipation and excitement.

He suppressed a smile and quietly followed her.

Song Tan stopped at a grilled cold noodle stall and expertly placed her order. "Boss, one grilled cold noodle, with an egg and chicken strips, please."

"Coming right up!"

It was the dinner rush, and the crowd grew thicker. The stall must have been popular—waves of people, both men and women, gathered around.

Ji Fuxi frowned again and, without a second thought, slipped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer to shield her from the crowd.

Song Tan felt it and glanced down at the hand on her waist, a small smile playing on her lips.

After three or four minutes, the order was ready. The man beside her asked for the price and promptly paid via QR code.

Song Tan was slightly surprised. She took the grilled cold noodles. "Thank you, Boss."

As they walked away, Ji Fuxi put his phone away and took the freshly made snack from her hands.

Now free-handed, Song Tan smiled again. She scanned the surroundings and moved forward. "I also want fried skewers!"

The skewer shop was a small storefront with a rather unappealing environment.

The man beside her stared at the oil in the fryer—who knows how many times it had been used—his expression turning grim.

Song Tan noticed his darkening gaze and playfully covered his eyes, laughing. "Don’t look, don’t look! You mustn’t look." Her tone and mannerisms were just like Song Chuqing’s—playfully cute.

Ji Fuxi was repulsed but understood. He pulled her hand away and said calmly, "It’s fine. Order what you want."

Song Tan looked at the vegetables and frozen items in front of her and shook her head after a few seconds. "Never mind. Let’s go. There’s a decent Western place nearby."

He looked at her seriously. "Seriously, it’s fine."

He quite liked this side of her. The Song Tan before him now seemed different from the one he’d known before—more vibrant, more like a young woman.

Song Tan smiled. "I know. I’m already happy you came with me. Thanks for humoring me, but I should consider your feelings too. We got the grilled cold noodles—I’m satisfied."

"Song Tan..."

After a pause, she took the initiative to link her arm with his, trying to act casual. "Let’s go. We’ll be late for the movie."

It was the first time she’d initiated contact.

Though her grip was light and maintained a certain distance.

Ji Fuxi lowered his gaze and didn’t pull away.

...

After a quick dinner nearby, they arrived at the cinema at 8:20, still wearing masks.

Ji Fuxi glanced at the line for popcorn and soda and asked, "Want some?"

"No, I’m too full from earlier. Can’t eat another bite."

They collected their tickets and entered the theater early. The lights were still on, and they easily found their seats.

Song Tan looked up at the massive IMAX screen, both nostalgic and giddy. "It’s been so long since I’ve watched a movie on such a big screen."

It was Ji Fuxi’s first time in a cinema, and even he was a little impressed by the giant screen. He turned to her and asked softly, "Didn’t they have these abroad?"

"Rarely. And I never had time to go to the movies anyway." Song Tan continued, meeting his gaze. "What made you suddenly want to watch a movie?"

The man answered directly. "Xiao Chu said you like watching movies."

Song Tan clenched her fists silently in her heart—that little blabbermouth!

"If you're in this industry, you have to watch a lot of films to learn. Whether as an actor or director, an extensive film knowledge is essential." Song Tan asked, "What about you? What do you usually like to do?"

Ji Fuxi was silent for a moment before shaking his head lightly. "I don’t have any particular interests."

It was true—he had no particular interests. His life had always revolved around studying and work. His grandfather and mother had naturally encouraged him to learn calligraphy, horseback riding, and fencing, all of which he excelled at, but none of them were things he was passionate about. They couldn’t be called hobbies.

In retrospect, his life had been rather colorless.

Song Tan prodded, "There must be something. Maybe you just haven’t thought of it yet."

Ji Fuxi looked at her and shook his head again.

"You like exercising!" Song Tan had seen him go out for workouts eight out of the past ten days—he was terribly disciplined. "And you like reading, don’t you? I noticed a few new books in the study that aren’t mine."

The woman’s eyes twinkled with amusement. "Xiao Chu loves reading too."

Ji Fuxi paused, then gave a small smile and admitted, "Then I suppose that counts."

Song Tan sat up straight. "You don’t have to feel pressured to define something as a hobby. I think anything that makes you feel relaxed and happy can be called a hobby. I love watching movies because I enjoy the quiet solitude, the state of letting my mind go blank."

Ji Fuxi pondered her words. If that was the case, then perhaps he did have a hobby after all.

Being with Xiao Chu, being with them—that was when he felt most relaxed.

The theater was getting crowded, and soon, two young couples had taken the seats beside them.

At 8:27, the lights dimmed, and advertisements began playing on the screen. The two stopped talking.

At 8:29, the woman beside him suddenly leaned closer, keeping her voice low to avoid disturbing others. "Have you seen any of my movies?"

He had.

He nodded.

In fact, he had gone back and watched them again afterward.

"How were they?"

Song Tan had two standout films in her career so far—one where she played an innocent student, and another where she portrayed a weathered divorcee. She embodied both purity and mature charm effortlessly. Ji Fuxi offered a balanced assessment. "Your acting was very skilled."

Song Tan smiled smugly. "When *The Great Dream* releases, we’ll take—" Wait, no. *The Great Dream* had a bed scene—they couldn’t bring Xiao Chu. She caught herself. "When *The Great Dream* releases, we’ll come watch it again."

Ji Fuxi glanced at her. Under the flickering light of the screen, her eyes held laughter, brimming with pride and confidence. She was stunningly beautiful.

"Okay."

At 8:30, the movie started.

It was a romance film. Ji Fuxi didn’t recognize the actors or know the plot, so he watched quietly.

But he clearly wasn’t the target audience for love stories. Gradually losing interest, he turned his gaze sideways.

Song Tan was engrossed, her eyes fixed on the screen. She mirrored the emotions of the leads—smiling when they smiled, sad when they were heartbroken—her expressions vivid.

Watching her was far more entertaining than the movie.

Halfway through, a small commotion rippled through the theater. The focused woman suddenly turned her head, and their eyes met unexpectedly before she quickly looked away.

Even with her mask on, Ji Fuxi could see the embarrassment in her eyes.

The speakers began playing suggestive sounds. When he glanced back at the screen, the leads were in an intimate scene.

Ji Fuxi understood her reaction and chuckled.

Romance films always attracted couples. His attention was soon drawn to a pair beside them, kissing intensely.

He paused for a few seconds.

Then, with another faint smile, he reached for the hand resting on the armrest beside him, taking her hand.

The woman looked at him in surprise, the dim theater intensifying the moment between them.

He didn’t let go.

She didn’t pull away.

Encouraged, he boldly laced his fingers with hers, locking them together.

...

At 10:30 p.m., they got home, entering one after the other.

As they climbed the stairs, the man behind her spoke. "Song Tan."

She stopped, placing a hand on the banister as she turned to face him.

He moved closer and embraced her.

In the quiet space, someone’s heartbeat pounded—it was impossible to tell whose.

"Goodnight."

She replied, "Goodnight."

Song Tan didn’t go see Xiao Chu.

If the little girl was awake, she would surely shout, "Mom, why is your face so red?"

That scenario could not be allowed to happen.

...

On Monday morning, Song Chuqing was in a great mood.

During lunch, Li Keke asked her why she was so happy. Song Chuqing said with a sly grin, "My dad and mom went on another date!"

Li Keke looked upset at the news. Noticing, Song Chuqing asked with concern, "Ke Ke, are you feeling down?"

Li Keke nodded. "My parents fought yesterday."

"Why?"

"Because my dad came home really late the night before, and he was drunk and smelled bad. My mom got upset, and then they started arguing." "Ah..." Song Chuqing had never experienced this before and wasn’t sure how to comfort her. She got down from her little chair and went to her side, asking quietly, "Did your dad apologize to your mom?"

"No, my dad was also very angry, and then he left the house."

"Ke Ke's dad is awful!" Song Chuqing held her hand. "Ke Ke, don't be sad. Let’s call your dad and yell at him together!"

Li Keke shook her head, her eyes red. "Xiao Chu, do you think my parents will get divorced? I'm scared. Will they turn out like my aunt and uncle?"

Song Chuqing didn’t know. Her parents fought too, but her dad would apologize, and her mom would forgive him. The thought made her a little scared too—if her parents divorced, would her dad not live with them anymore?

Worry filled the two little girls’ innocent faces. Li Keke began to cry softly. "Waaah... Don’t let them divorce..."

Teacher Xiao Qing noticed and walked over. "What's wrong, Ke Ke?"

On the other side, Yao Peiqiu, who had been focused on eating, looked up and immediately jumped off his chair to come over. "Who bullied you?" he growled.

Song Chuqing, who wasn’t crying, reported, "Teacher Xiao Qing, Ke Ke is worried her parents might get divorced."

Teacher Xiao Qing lifted Li Keke into her arms and comforted her gently. "Did Ke Ke's parents have a fight?"

Li Keke nodded heavily between sniffles.

Teacher Xiao Qing wiped her tears. "Ke Ke, be a good girl. Later, I’ll call your parents, okay? Don’t be afraid."

"Mm!"

Teacher Xiao Qing took Li Keke to nap. Yao Peiqiu and Song Chuqing looked at each other, then stopped eating and followed Teacher Xiao Qing to the room.

After the teacher left, Song Chuqing took off her shoes and squeezed into Li Keke’s bed. When she was sad, her mom always slept beside her and held her, so she wanted to hold Li Keke for nap time too.

Yao Peiqiu also wanted to climb up, but Song Chuqing stopped him, looking serious. "Pei Qiu, you’re a boy. Boys can’t sleep in the same bed as girls."

"Why? I want to too."

"No, no, no! Mom said boys can’t sleep with girls."

"Fine."

Yao Peiqiu stood there, disappointed for a while before running to his own little bed. When he came back, he was holding a Transformers action figure. "Here! My favorite Bumblebee!"

Li Keke scrunched her nose. "I don’t want it."

Yao Peiqiu looked troubled. "But he’s the only toy I’ve got."

Li Keke huffed but eventually took Bumblebee. She tucked the toy under the blanket, then hugged the cuddly Song Chuqing, snuggled close and shut her eyes.

Maybe when she woke up, her parents would’ve made up.

...

Her mom picked her up after school today.

It’d been so long since her mom had come to get her. Song Chuqing was overjoyed, holding her mom’s hand as they walked out. "Mom, will you always pick me up from now on?"

"For a while, yes. If Mom is busy, Sister Chenchen or Dad might come instead."

"Yay!" Song Chuqing looked up again. "Are we going to find Dad?"

"No, your dad has work tonight. It’s just the two of us for dinner."

Ji Fuxi had sent a message two hours earlier, saying he had a work dinner and not to wait for him.

The little girl didn’t look upset. Instead, she bit her lip, then asked hesitantly, "Mom... will you and Dad get divorced?"

Song Tan noticed her unusual tone and stopped. "What’s wrong, Xiao Chu?"

Song Chuqing recounted everything from lunch, ending with a tiny, shaky voice. "Mom, don’t divorce Dad..."

Song Tan’s heart ached. Divorce was always hard on a kid. She cupped her daughter’s face and reassured her, "Mom and Dad won’t get divorced."

"Really?"

"Really."

The little girl held out her hand. "Pinky swear. Liars become puppies."

"Okay, pinky promise."

Song Chuqing brightened and continued walking hand in hand with her mom. "Mom, what are we eating?"

"Let’s hit the market now. Xiao Chu gets to choose."

"Yay!"

Mom and daughter kept chatting as they left, eventually getting into their car and leaving the street where the kindergarten was located.

Not far away, inside a black sedan, Ji Gaozheng, gripping his cane, slowly withdrew his gaze, his expression stern.

After a moment, he snapped, "Uncle Li, you’re coddling Fu Xi too much! How could you not tell me about something this important?"

Uncle Li hesitated. "Fu Xi specifically ordered me not to."

"Does my word mean nothing in the Ji family?!"

Uncle Li stiffened and went quiet.

Ji Fuxi had drilled it into him from the start not to proactively inform Ji Gaozheng, but if Ji Gaozheng asked, he could disclose the information and report back promptly.

When Ji Gaozheng called him in to the old residence that morning, Uncle Li knew the jig was up.

Ji Gaozheng looked at the scattered photos on the seat beside him—dozens of photos of the two of them, as well as the three of them together—and let out a heavy sigh, conflicted.