The weekend arrived, bringing a welcome respite from the week's tensions. Wen received a text from Li Yan, inviting her out for drinks. Li Yan was one of the few friends she'd made since moving to Shanghai, her humor and unapologetic honesty a balm against the city's more ruthless edges.
They met at a small bar tucked away in one of the city's old neighborhoods. The place was lively, filled with the warm chatter of patrons and the clink of glasses. Wen relaxed, grateful for the chance to unwind.
"So," Li Yan said, grinning as she leaned forward. "How's work? I hear you've been giving Eric a run for his money."
Wen laughed, rolling her eyes. "Oh, Eric. He's determined to remind me that I don't 'belong' in the fast lane. I swear, he watches every move I make."
Li Yan waved a hand dismissively. "Ignore him. He's all talk. You've got more drive in your pinky finger than he does in his entire body."
Wen smiled, but her thoughts drifted to Kai. "You know, it's strange. I met someone recently, and it's like… he gets it. The struggle, I mean. It's rare to find that in a place like this."
Li Yan raised an eyebrow, her grin widening. "Oh? And who is this mystery man?"
"He's… different," Wen said, choosing her words carefully. "He comes from a completely different world, but there's this sense of understanding between us. Like he sees me, and I see him, in ways I can't explain."
Li Yan's gaze softened, her teasing replaced by genuine curiosity. "Sounds like you're smitten."
Wen shook her head, though a faint blush crept over her cheeks. "It's not like that… at least, not yet. I just feel… connected to him, somehow."
Li Yan raised her glass, a knowing smile on her lips. "Well, here's to finding someone who sees you, Wen. In a city like this, that's worth more than gold."
As they toasted, Wen felt a pang of longing mixed with anticipation. She couldn't deny the pull she felt toward Kai, the way he'd become a quiet constant in her thoughts. It was as if he'd slipped into her life unnoticed, a small but significant spark that reminded her of the things she truly valued.
She didn't know where this connection would lead, but for now, the promise it held was enough.