[Host Cen Lingqiu, mission assessment in progress… Result: Mission failed.]
[Plot triggered, emotional storyline completed successfully, female lead's love interest identified as Cen Lingqiu. Character malfunction, reporting to the Detection Center.]
The cold mechanical voice of the system rang in Cen Lingqiu's ears. Ever since she had woken up, she had been in a daze, as if living in a dream she never wanted to wake up from.
She finally made her way to the system center today, wanting to negotiate terms. However, before she could discuss anything, the system had already assessed her mission results.
As expected, she had failed again.
She understood the first part, but the latter half of the message left her confused.
Before she could process it, System Seven spoke up excitedly, [Lingqiu, this is great! Your wish has come true.]
"What?"
The system explained.
Originally, her mission had failed, and the center intended to assign another agent to the world. But at the last minute, the system detected that the emotional storyline for the female lead had been completed.
Since this was a romance-driven novel, the female lead's emotional journey was the core of the plot. Everything was built around her romantic arc.
Initially, with Lin Dong imprisoned, the emotional arc had come to an end. However, the system then detected a confession from the female lead. She had completed her emotional journey, and her love interest turned out to be Cen Lingqiu.
The system couldn't destroy the female lead's emotional bond, as that would violate the world's consciousness. But Cen Lingqiu, being an outsider from the world, wasn't allowed to remain there indefinitely according to the rules.
On one side, there was the world's consciousness; on the other, strict regulations.
The system center pondered the dilemma for a long time before coming up with a solution.
Since Cen Lingqiu hadn't completed the mission, the center decided to allow her to enter the world in her original body and continue the task in Yu Mingjiao's world.
The system was even more excited than she was, saying, [Even though you're being sent to complete the mission, it's really just an excuse for you to live peacefully in that world. This way, the world's balance won't be disrupted, and the regulations won't be broken either. You'll just be there to do your task, but the center has relaxed the requirements.]
[You still need to lower her self-destruction coefficient, but the exact number isn't specified. Which means it's a task that can never truly be completed. As long as the task isn't finished, you'll never return to your original world.]
[You'll stay in Yu Mingjiao's world until the day you die.]
–
Iceland.
Yu Mingjiao wore a black coat, a scarf around her neck—one that Cen Lingqiu had given her. The black sand beach was scattered with sparkling ice.
She sat in her wheelchair, her expression calm and indifferent.
The wind was strong, blowing her long black hair into disarray.
This wasn't her first time in Iceland. Since Cen Lingqiu had left, this was her fourth time coming here.
Every year, she made this journey.
Lin Qiu's body had already been buried. Cen Lingqiu would never return.
She could no longer see that face.
Yu Mingjiao didn't even know why she kept coming back year after year.
Perhaps she still believed in Cen Lingqiu.
After all, Cen Lingqiu had never lied to her.
She had always said she would come back.
Yu Mingjiao told herself this lie every single day.
She no longer experienced hallucinations or heard voices. She ate regularly, worked, and had become a dazzling, glamorous person.
She wanted to be at her best when Cen Lingqiu returned.
Cen Lingqiu had always loved beautiful things.
It seemed like it was going to rain, and the people along the beach hurried back.
Yu Mingjiao's phone rang. It was one of her colleagues.
"Xiao Yu, where are you? We can't find you."
"I'm at the black sand beach."
The colleague sounded surprised. "You're still there? Didn't they bring you back? It's about to rain, and the cars have all left. How are you going to get back?"
Yu Mingjiao didn't respond, feeling the first raindrops.
Her colleague on the other end of the line was panicking. She had accompanied Yu Mingjiao to the event, and if something happened to her, she'd be in deep trouble.
"I just remembered—" her colleague suddenly had a flash of inspiration. "There's a woman on our translation team who also went to the beach. She should still be there. I'll give you her number. Oh, what's her name again…"
Her colleague struggled to remember.
Just then, the rain began to fall harder. Yu Mingjiao had already resigned herself to getting drenched, but in the next moment, a black umbrella appeared above her.
She turned her head.
Her colleague's voice came through the phone.
"Her name is Cen Lingqiu."
"Hello."
The woman before her was dressed in a peacock blue coat, in her thirties, with long, curly black hair casually draped over her chest. Her monolid eyes, thin, light-colored lips, and narrow gaze bore a resemblance to Lin Qiu, though this face was more distant, more aloof.
In her arms was a vibrant bouquet of lisianthus flowers. Her posture was graceful, and there was a faint, gentle smile on her face.
"My name is Cen Lingqiu."
"Ling as in listening, Qiu as in autumn."
"Would you like me to take you home?"
* * * *
(Since the novel is marked as complete and I only just discovered the existence of an extra chapter, I am unable to publish it as a separate update. Therefore, the extra chapter will be included here.)
Extra:
Yu Mingjiao loved staring at Cen Lingqiu's face, utterly captivated. Whenever they were together, Yu Mingjiao would gaze directly at Cen Lingqiu without blinking, her expression straightforward and unguarded.
Cen Lingqiu, puzzled by the intensity of the attention, thought Yu Mingjiao might dislike her real face. She asked hesitantly,
"Why are you staring at me like that?" She touched her face. "Is it not good-looking?"
Her face wasn't as refined as Yu Mingjiao's or as enchantingly striking as Lin Qiu's. Her features leaned toward a serene, delicate plainness, like faint mist—unadorned and understated.
Cen Lingqiu had never paid much attention to her appearance before. But this was the first time she faced Yu Mingjiao with her true face—especially now that it bore the maturity of someone in her thirties, with sharper contours and a calmer demeanor.
She worried Yu Mingjiao might still be accustomed to Lin Qiu's previous appearance.
But Yu Mingjiao simply said, "Because it's beautiful."
"Who?" Cen Lingqiu chuckled. "Me?"
Yu Mingjiao nodded. She leaned against Cen Lingqiu's shoulder, her slender, fair fingers tracing the features of Cen Lingqiu's face.
"You're exceptionally beautiful, Lingqiu-jie," Yu Mingjiao said in a calm tone of admiration. "I really love you."
After a moment of thought, perhaps feeling her words weren't enough, she added, "No matter how you change, I'll still love you."
Cen Lingqiu chuckled softly and kissed Yu Mingjiao's forehead.
"How did you learn to speak so sweetly? Who taught you?"
"It's sincere."
"How sincere?"
Yu Mingjiao grabbed Cen Lingqiu's hand, pressing it against her heart. Her gaze was clear, conveying everything her words couldn't.
Cen Lingqiu understood Yu Mingjiao was declaring her feelings. No matter how she changed, Yu Mingjiao would continue to love her, unwaveringly.
Adorable.
* * * *
[I] (Short Stories)
Cen Lingqiu and Yu Mingjiao adopted a cat—a tiny white bundle with emerald-green eyes. Both struggled with naming it.
After a full day of brainstorming, Yu Mingjiao grew frustrated by the lack of progress. Seeing the cat's eyes resemble jade, she decided to call it "Xiao Cui" (Little Jade).
Cen Lingqiu wasn't entirely on board with the name but eventually relented since Yu Mingjiao liked it.
Thus, the little white cat became Xiao Cui.
Xiao Cui was exceptionally clingy, especially toward Cen Lingqiu. Wherever Cen Lingqiu went, Xiao Cui would follow.
Yu Mingjiao often had to scoop the cat up to stop it from clinging to Cen Lingqiu. Xiao Cui would glare at her with fierce eyes, nibbling on her fingers with its tiny teeth.
"If you bite me again, I'll shave you bald!" Yu Mingjiao said coldly.
Cen Lingqiu walked out of the kitchen with a plate of fruit, overhearing the exchange. She couldn't help but laugh.
"Why are you scaring her?"
"She likes sticking to you."
"Is that so?" Cen Lingqiu fed Xiao Cui a piece of strawberry. Casually, she said, "Being clingy isn't a bad thing."
Yu Mingjiao pouted.
"Then what about me?"
"What?"
"If she clings to you, how am I supposed to get your attention?" Yu Mingjiao said lightly, though her eyes hinted at genuine frustration.
Since fully committing to each other, Yu Mingjiao had grown increasingly adept at expressing affection—albeit subtly. She wouldn't openly ask for attention, preferring to hint at her feelings through quiet complaints or wistful glances, hoping Cen Lingqiu would notice and indulge her.
If Cen Lingqiu didn't catch on, Yu Mingjiao would sulk until she did.
By now, Cen Lingqiu understood Yu Mingjiao's quirks like the back of her hand. She could easily tell when Yu Mingjiao was upset.
Cen Lingqiu pinched Yu Mingjiao's cheek lightly. "Oh my, are you really competing with the cat? Even kids don't act like this."
Yu Mingjiao said nothing, silently staring at her.
Cen Lingqiu relented and began coaxing her. "I won't ignore you. How could I not care about you? You're my everything, Jiao Jiao."
Yu Mingjiao's expression softened slightly.
But Cen Lingqiu underestimated Yu Mingjiao's childishness. Xiao Cui loved sneaking onto their bed at night, and one day, Yu Mingjiao, in a fit of jealousy, cut up the cat's toys.
Xiao Cui retaliated by circling her wheelchair, meowing incessantly until Yu Mingjiao couldn't work. Frustrated, Yu Mingjiao stopped working and glared coldly at the cat.
When Cen Lingqiu came home from work, she found the two locked in a glaring contest.
She sighed, exasperated.
Later, Cen Lingqiu promised Yu Mingjiao they'd try new toys for Xiao Cui. Instantly, Yu Mingjiao's mood improved. She bought Xiao Cui a pile of new toys, and the cat, seemingly appeased, licked Yu Mingjiao's fingers in gratitude.
Sometimes, Cen Lingqiu thought they had two cats at home—both equally temperamental.
Watching the two play in the living room, Xiao Cui climbed onto Yu Mingjiao's shoulders, tickling her until she laughed and called out,
"Lingqiu help! Take Xiao Cui away!"
Her laughter was radiant, her cheeks as white as snow, no longer pale or thin—like the most vibrant flower in spring.
Cen Lingqiu smiled softly.
What did a bad temper matter?
No matter how she changed, she would always be her Jiao Jiao.
Her precious, delicate person—like a cherished cat.
* * * *
[II]
Yu Mingjiao developed a sudden passion for cooking and would enthusiastically volunteer to prepare meals for Cen Lingqiu.
Out of courtesy, Cen Lingqiu ate her creations a few times. Thinking Cen Lingqiu enjoyed the food, Yu Mingjiao became more invested, deriving immense satisfaction from her efforts.
But the results were… less than ideal.
Cen Lingqiu gently placed her hand over Yu Mingjiao's, softly suggesting, "Jiao Jiao, not everyone is good at everything."
Yu Mingjiao's face was stoic as she replied, "It tastes awful, doesn't it?"
Cen Lingqiu hesitated, unsure how to respond. Yu Mingjiao's pride was delicate; harsh words might hurt her.
"You're silent," Yu Mingjiao concluded.
"I get it. I won't cook anymore."
Her tone was flat, but Cen Lingqiu sensed a hint of hurt. Bending down to meet Yu Mingjiao's gaze, she asked gently, "Are you upset?"
Yu Mingjiao turned away. "No, I'm going to wash up."
That night, Yu Mingjiao lay in bed with her back to Cen Lingqiu, unusually distant.
As expected, she's hurt, Cen Lingqiu thought.
"Jiao Jiao, turn around," she coaxed.
Yu Mingjiao hesitated for a few seconds before slowly turning to face her. Cen Lingqiu cupped her chin gently, her voice soft. "What's wrong? Are you really mad at me?"
Yu Mingjiao sighed, her expression weary. "Do you think I'm always angry?"
Cen Lingqiu froze for a moment.
Yu Mingjiao let out a faint huff. Cen Lingqiu laughed and kissed her. "I didn't say that."
After a while, Yu Mingjiao finally admitted, "I'm not upset about that."
"Then what?" Cen Lingqiu asked.
"I just don't understand why you didn't tell me the truth," Yu Mingjiao replied slowly. "We don't need to be polite with each other. I don't like it when you force yourself for my sake. Lingqiu, I don't want you to suffer and suppress your feelings."
Cen Lingqiu paused, caught off guard.
Over the years, Yu Mingjiao had changed. She was no longer as selfish or distant as she used to be. She had learned to be considerate and to love genuinely.
But Yu Mingjiao's care was often silent, like still water—easily overlooked.
Cen Lingqiu felt a pang of guilt. She had tried to respect Yu Mingjiao's feelings but had overlooked her partner's silent concern. Yu Mingjiao wasn't angry about her cooking; she was upset that Cen Lingqiu wasn't honest about her discomfort.
In her own way, Yu Mingjiao had become a more thoughtful and mature partner over time.
Cen Lingqiu smiled softly. "Alright, I'll listen to you."
Yu Mingjiao's expression eased.
Before falling asleep, she added, "Cooking isn't my thing. I'll try making drinks next."
"Uh…"
"Don't argue, Lingqiu!" Yu Mingjiao interrupted.
Cen Lingqiu chuckled and pulled her into her arms.
* * * *
[III]
Cen Lingqiu and Yu Mingjiao had been together for a long, long time. After so many years, arguments became inevitable.
That day, they quarreled because Cen Lingqiu hadn't replied to Yu Mingjiao's messages for over three hours.
Over the years, Yu Mingjiao's possessiveness and clinginess had only grown. When Cen Lingqiu returned to her original body and reentered this world, Yu Mingjiao spent months—nearly half a year—living in constant fear, terrified that Cen Lingqiu might leave her.
Even after one, two, three years passed without incident, Yu Mingjiao's anxieties softened but never entirely disappeared. She remained possessive, setting boundaries: messages must be replied to within two hours, home by ten at night, and weekends reserved for her.
Cen Lingqiu's new identity, arranged by the system, was as an orphan and a freelance translator. Her work kept her busy, but she indulged Yu Mingjiao's quirks willingly.
However, the previous day, while working as a simultaneous interpreter at a convention, Cen Lingqiu had left her phone in the car to charge. The session was only two hours, so she decided to retrieve it afterward.
Unfortunately, Yu Mingjiao had called during that time, and a male colleague, hearing the incessant ringing, answered on her behalf.
Yu Mingjiao's nerves unraveled.
Her latent paranoia surfaced, leading to a barrage of accusations. She questioned Cen Lingqiu's love for her, her fidelity, and whether she had lost interest in women altogether.
Cen Lingqiu saw that Yu Mingjiao was too emotional for rational conversation. She decided it was best to leave temporarily and let them both cool off. She opened the door and walked out.
In the living room, Yu Mingjiao sat frozen, sending message after message:
[Lingqiu are you angry?]
[Please don't be mad at me. Don't hate me]
[I was wrong earlier… I won't do it again]
[I can't stand you hating me]
[Please don't leave me]
[Don't abandon me]
[Don't ignore me]
[Lingqiu, I can't live without you]
Tears welled in her eyes.
Then, a single message from Cen Lingqiu appeared:
[Open the door]
Yu Mingjiao scrambled to open it, her voice hoarse. "Lingqiu… You didn't leave?"
Cen Lingqiu gently wiped her tears, her tone calm. "How could I leave when you're here? I was standing right outside, waiting to dry your tears."
* * * *
[IV]
Occasionally, Cen Lingqiu would bring Yu Mingjiao along to visit Zhang Li.
Zhang Li, now much older, had endured numerous hardships. Her husband had passed away from illness while in prison, and her daughter had also died tragically. These blows had greatly affected her, leaving her memory impaired. She often believed her daughter was still alive and would mistake Cen Lingqiu for her.
Because of this, Cen Lingqiu frequently visited Zhang Li with Yu Mingjiao, knowing that their presence brought her great joy.
Zhang Li's health deteriorated over time, but the visits from Cen Lingqiu and Yu Mingjiao gave her comfort and prolonged her days. One serene spring day, she passed away peacefully.
In her final moments, Zhang Li clasped Cen Lingqiu's and Yu Mingjiao's hands, as if wanting to say something. But in the end, she simply smiled faintly, patted their joined hands, and quietly closed her eyes.
Cen Lingqiu handled the funeral arrangements.
That day, the weather was bright and sunny, with no sign of rain. After placing flowers on Zhang Li's grave, Cen Lingqiu and Yu Mingjiao held hands and left without looking back.
They walked forward, never turning around.
* * * *
[V]
Yu Sui'an had always been attached to Yu Mingjiao. Over the years, she devoted herself entirely to staying by her sister's side, never pursuing any romantic relationships of her own.
Yu Mingjiao was aware that Yu Sui'an truly saw her as a sister now. Her persistent care over the years—nurturing her and providing support during Yu Mingjiao's mental struggles—was genuine. Yu Mingjiao could feel the remorse and sincerity in Yu Sui'an's actions.
But some mistakes couldn't be undone.
On Yu Mingjiao's thirtieth birthday, Yu Sui'an gifted her a traditional charm for peace. In the past, Yu Mingjiao wouldn't have accepted her gifts, but this time, she did.
Yu Sui'an was overjoyed—until Yu Mingjiao spoke.
"Next year, don't bother bringing me gifts."
Her tone was calm. "I understand your feelings, and I'm grateful for your care these past years. But not all mistakes can be forgiven, and not everything can be forgotten."
Yu Sui'an's face turned pale.
"You can't keep living your life revolving around me," Yu Mingjiao continued bluntly. "When you get married, I'll attend. But for now, live your own life, Sui'an."
It was the first time Yu Mingjiao addressed her so intimately. Yet the words were a farewell.
Yu Sui'an didn't argue. She knew her childhood mistakes could never be erased. If it weren't for her, Yu Mingjiao might never have been injured.
Her lips trembled, but she didn't lash out.
People grow up eventually.
"Alright." Tears streamed down Yu Sui'an's face, but she smiled.
"Then, Big sister, you and Lingqiu-jie take care of each other."
She bowed deeply.
"I'm sorry. I won't bother you anymore. Thank you for accepting my gift. You will always be my family."
"Goodbye, Big sister."
Yu Sui'an slowly backed away, then turned and left.
Cen Lingqiu approached, gently touching Yu Mingjiao's face. "Are you sad?"
Yu Mingjiao quietly watched Yu Sui'an's retreating figure.
She leaned into Cen Lingqiu's hand and didn't answer directly. Instead, she said, "Lingqiu, let's go home—to our home."
"Alright."
The setting sun stretched their shadows long and far, pulling them in opposite directions, as if reaching endlessly toward the distant horizon.
* * * *
[VI]
Time passed, stretching endlessly. Neither Cen Lingqiu nor Yu Mingjiao could recall exactly how long they had been together—three years, five years, or longer. It felt like forever.
One day, they visited the seaside tavern they had once frequented. The former owner, the lady in the red dress, was gone, replaced by a young woman with short hair.
They sat in their usual spot, watching the waves roll and crash under the approaching sunset.
Cen Lingqiu felt a sudden urge to play the guitar. She volunteered to perform and walked up to the small stage.
The tavern was quiet, with only a few patrons. Cen Lingqiu perched on a high stool, her long legs casually resting on the ground. Her hair was still black, though a few strands of silver could be spotted in the depths. Her features were as elegant as ever, now marked with a mature calmness.
Lowering her head slightly, she strummed the guitar and sang softly, her voice husky and deliberate:
"Let loneliness age quietly, never awakening."
"The departure you long for is merely a restless heart."
"Keep singing, eyes gently closed."
"The collapse of warm tears is just an unmet existence."
As the song echoed through the room, Yu Mingjiao gazed at Cen Lingqiu on stage, realizing just how long this woman had stayed by her side.
She never left.
And she never would.
The summer sea breeze swept through the tavern, making Yu Mingjiao's eyes sting. Tears welled up and spilled over.
Yu Mingjiao understood—they still had a long, long journey ahead.
Without loneliness, coldness, only filled with immense love.
[The End]