As expected, when Cui Xiao saw Rang Jing, her expression was a mix of surprise and jealousy. She muttered to me quietly, "You're quite something, doing so well here, and your girlfriend is so beautiful."
"Friend, just a friend," I said, speaking the truth. But in this world, many people don't believe the truth, especially when you're earnestly speaking it—they think you're covering up.
"Don't give me that. I know your tricks. You've had quite the reputation as a ladies' man back in school," Cui Xiao insisted, bringing up something I'd rather forget.
"Alright, buddy, I beg you not to bring up that embarrassing stuff. Who knows which uncultured person gave me that misleading title, which not only doesn't fit me but also lacks any literary merit," I retorted, feeling annoyed at being labeled with such a title, even if it was a misunderstanding. But I won't dwell on that.
After directing Cui Xiao to the hotel I'd already booked for him, reluctantly settling for a four-star due to three-stars being fully booked, I made sure it was for a week, since he wanted to play for that long.
"Hey, where are you taking me?" Cui Xiao stood at the hotel entrance, questioning me.
"To the hotel, I've already booked it for you—four stars, seven days, all on my dime. That's fair, isn't it?" I replied.
"No need, what's our relationship anyway, buddy? I don't need a hotel; staying with you is fine," Cui Xiao insisted, acting like we were inseparable brothers.
"What?" I was stunned, not knowing what to say.
Since I'd already booked the hotel for him, it was clear I didn't want my life disrupted, even for a week, given that I was willing to pay thousands for his accommodation. But I didn't know how to explain this without being impolite. Rejecting a friend's offer of hospitality is considered rude in Chinese culture, even if I was footing the bill.
"I'm sorry, but I live with Lufei, so it might not be convenient," Rang Qing interjected, saving me from having to explain further. I had a sudden urge to hug Rang Jing; she was so clever. From my hesitation, she understood my thoughts.
"Oh, I see. That makes sense," Cui Xiao said, looking at me with a sly glance.
"Do you really live with her?" Cui Xiao asked me after Rang Jing left.
"You're unbelievable. I told you we're just friends, you didn't believe me. Now I tell you we're living together, and you still don't believe me. What will it take for you to believe me?"
"It's because you're always changing your story. I'm going to your place to see for myself, to see if you're really lucky enough to find such a beautiful girl."
Now I was in trouble. If he went to my place and saw that I wasn't living with Rang Jing, my deception would be exposed. It wouldn't be a big deal, but it would still be embarrassing. What should I do? I decided to stall, hoping to delay Cui Xiao's visit to my place.
"Do you have to go so soon? Let me take you around first," I suggested, trying to distract him.