After resting for half a day, I returned to the company in the afternoon, and Wen Xicheng was already online on MSN. I hesitated for a long time before sending him a message: [Have you come to the company?]
[Yes.]
His concise reply left me at a loss for words on how to comfort him, so I simply closed the chat box.
In the afternoon, the business department received a new case. During the meeting, Wen Xicheng's face had regained a slight smile. Apart from the fatigue around his eyes, there was no trace of sorrow. When I smiled at him, he nodded back at me without lingering his gaze. I sighed inwardly; I was no longer the one who could bring him warmth.
Before finishing work, I received a call from Zi Fei. He said, "Xia Tian, call Ni Zi; let's go to Xicheng's house for hot pot tonight."
I thought for a moment and replied, "Tonight? Ni Zi mentioned she seems to have something going on."
"I have nothing going on; what could she possibly have?" He adjusted his tone and added, "Today is Xicheng's grandfather's memorial day; we should keep him company."
I exhaled softly, "Okay, I'll let her know."
I called Liu Ni Yi and, without going into too much detail, mentioned that it was Xicheng's grandfather's memorial day. I knew she valued friendship, and this reason would be hard for her to refuse.
After work, Wen Xicheng worked for a while before leaving with me. He focused on driving the whole way while I enjoyed the night scenery, and we didn't speak.
When we returned to the apartment, the living room was empty. Wen Xicheng went to his room to change, and I turned to the kitchen.
Liu Ni Yi was washing vegetables. Seeing me, she pursed her lips and asked, "How is Xicheng?"
I took out the electric hot pot and began preparing the broth. "I can't see any emotions; what about Zi Fei?"
"He went to buy alcohol."
I glanced at her. "Are you still avoiding him?"
Liu Ni Yi sighed softly and turned to me. "Tonight, I'll make things clear with him."
I grabbed her arm. "Ni Zi, why can't you face your feelings? Even if it means falling for someone else, so what? Didn't Huang Xiao Shu betray you back then?"
Liu Ni Yi turned to face me, her eyes filled with sorrow. She took a deep breath, rested her forehead against my shoulder, and softly said, "Xia Tian, I can't do that. Xiao Shu is not just my first love; he is also my family's benefactor."
I was taken aback. "What do you mean?"
With a sigh, she continued, "On Christmas Eve of my first year of graduate school, Xiao Shu came to find me, and we spent the night at a bar while Zi Fei waited for me outside the dorm all night."
When I heard his weak voice, a deep heartache washed over me. In that moment, I realized I had fallen for him. Without a second thought, I bought a ticket and went to Shenzhen to care for him for two days. After I returned, I contemplated breaking up with Huang Xiao Shu, but unexpectedly, my dad was diagnosed with stomach cancer. Fortunately, it wasn't late-stage, but the treatment cost over two thousand a day, and the high costs of surgery nearly crushed my family. I felt utterly helpless, even considering dropping out of school. When Xiao Shu learned about it, he said nothing and came home with me. He took care of everything and covered all the expenses for my dad. Later, my dad responded well to chemotherapy and gradually recovered. He told me that for the rest of my life, I must not let Huang Xiao Shu down. "Xia Tian, I can't be an ungrateful person," I promised him.
I looked at her in shock, and it took me a long time to find my voice. I hugged her shoulders and said through a choke, "Why didn't you tell us? Ni Zi, I didn't know anything!"
Liu Ni Yi sniffled.
"Back then, you were already stressed about Xicheng. Everything is in the past now; it's okay."
My heart was filled with guilt. During that time, I was indeed anxious about not being able to contact Wen Xicheng and completely overlooked her discomfort. After calming my emotions, I asked, "How much do you owe him in total?"
"Together with my graduate school tuition, it's nearly five hundred thousand."
I bit my lip and said, "Then if you pay him back, you would be free, right?"
Liu Ni Yi leaned against my shoulder and said nothing.
I firmly asserted, "I'll find a way to get the money. You must hold onto your happiness!"
She looked up at me, "What can you think of? You know I won't take any money from Xicheng or Zi Fei."
I nodded, "I know; I have some of my own. I'll borrow from my dad; don't worry about that. Just manage your feelings with Huang Xiao Shu and sort everything out between you two."
Liu Ni Yi was silent.
After a long pause, she said, "Xia Tian, it's not just about money. Over the past two years, Xiao Shu has treated me very well. When I was in grad school, he visited me almost every week. We have never quarreled, and he gives me everything. I can't just return the money and break up with him; I can't do that!"
"But you clearly love Zi Fei!"
"So what? As long as we don't see each other anymore, I can bury this feeling deep in my heart and be a qualified wife."
I was left speechless. In this world, there is truly more than just love. Perhaps Liu Ni Yi might recklessly choose to be with He Zi Fei, but she would forever carry the weight of...
A heavy moral burden. No one knows which choice is truly best. I think if I were in her position, I might make the same choice too. After all, the guilt toward a man is nothing compared to the torment of one's conscience!
Dinner was dull. Wen Xicheng and He Zi Fei drank glass after glass. He Zi Fei's face was flushed, while Wen Xicheng grew paler with each drink. After dinner, while we cleared the dishes, Liu Ni Yi said she wanted to go for a walk. He Zi Fei glanced at me, grabbed the car keys, and followed her out.
Wen Xicheng was smoking on the balcony. I poured a cup of hot water and brought some stomach medicine over to him. "Take the medicine; be careful or you'll feel uncomfortable later." Wen Xicheng extinguished his cigarette, took the medicine from me, smiled, swallowed it, then leaned against the railing, looking up at the starry sky, his gaze deep and distant. The night was quiet, and a gentle breeze blew by, easing the restlessness in my heart. I stood beside Wen Xicheng, gazing into the distance with him.
"I really hope Ni Yi and Zi Fei can be together." I was taken aback by his comment, paused for a moment, then slowly nodded, "Yes, they both love each other deeply; they should be together."
Wen Xicheng smirked slightly, his brows furrowing for a moment before turning to me and saying, "Let's go inside and watch some TV."
I nodded and followed him inside.
Wen Xicheng clearly seemed uncomfortable. He sat on the sofa, taking sharp breaths, his body upright, with tightly clenched fists at his sides. His restraint and suppression made my heart ache. "Why don't you lie down and rest for a bit? Where's the electric blanket?" I asked gently as I stood up. After letting out a soft sigh, he finally couldn't hold himself up any longer and slowly lay down on his side, murmuring, "Under the pillow in the bedroom." I nodded and walked toward his bedroom.
His room was tidy, the black and gray tones giving it a somewhat cold, hard feel. I lifted the pillow and noticed something pressed underneath, biting my lip gently. An old radio, a neatly folded, faded scarf, and a white electric heater. I was all too familiar with these three items, and a wave of bitterness swelled in my heart, causing my eyes to redden. I sat on the edge of the bed, reaching out to gently caress each item. Fragments of memories flashed through my mind, and I truly felt the weight of an old saying: The world is unchanged, but the people are different!
"What's wrong?" Perhaps having waited too long for me, Wen Xicheng walked in. When he saw what I was holding, his body stiffened and he froze in place. I rubbed my eyes, stood up, and smiled. "Won't putting it up this high give you a stiff neck?" Wen Xicheng pressed his lips together, walked over, took the electric heater from me, and then neatly put away the other two items, pausing momentarily as he reluctantly withdrew his fingers from the scarf. After placing the pillow back, he turned to look at me and shook his head.
The moonlight filtered softly from outside, casting an ethereal glow and shadow on his face. His eyes trembled slightly, reflecting a small, hazy figure within them.
When I noticed that the calm in his gaze was gradually being disrupted, replaced by a flicker of fire, I suddenly realized the air around us was charged with an intoxicating tension. Just as I prepared to turn and leave, the man before me reacted first. Wen Xicheng stepped forward, his chest rising and falling rapidly, before abruptly pulling me into his embrace. Still clutching the electric heater in his hand, I froze momentarily at the sight of his slightly open collar revealing his alluring collarbone. I immediately began to struggle, realizing for the first time just how strong he was, finding myself unable to move!
"Let go of me!" I did my best to maintain a calm tone. His arms held me tightly without a hint of loosening, while the man in front of me slowly leaned down. Wen Xicheng's hands gripped my waist firmly as he looked at me, his eyes burning with passion and desire. After narrowing his eyes slightly, he reached out a hand to gently grasp my chin, completely ignoring my shock and resistance, and leaned down to kiss me on the lips.
My eyes widened in panic as I struggled desperately, but it was in vain; the electric heater slipped from my hand. I pushed against him frantically, but his body was taut, and I could only feel his solid, rigid muscles. My efforts were futile, and all I could do was press my lips tightly together in defiance. Wen Xicheng closed his eyes, first teasingly licking my upper and lower lips with his tongue. After a moment, he bit down gently. Seeing that I showed no sign of yielding, he began to gently suck on my lips. With slightly increased pressure from his fingers on my chin, my mouth instinctively opened. Seizing the moment, he thrust his tongue inside, disregarding my attempts to evade him, tangling it with mine and sucking slowly and gently.
The entangled tongues in my mouth danced rhythmically, tracing circles around each other, occasionally accompanied by gentle bites.
The tingling sensation spread beyond just my tongue; the will to resist began to crumble. Every pore in my body slowly relaxed, and I found myself responding involuntarily! Just as I felt myself start to melt into his embrace, he suddenly thrust his tongue deep into my throat, pressing hard with overwhelming dominance. Discomfort surged through me, and my consciousness began to awaken. When I realized what was happening, I trembled all over and pushed him away with all my strength.
Wen Xicheng was kissing me deeply, completely unaware of this turn of events, and he was forcefully pushed back into the bedside cabinet behind him. I distinctly heard a loud "bang," like the sound of bones colliding with a heavy object.
After a moment of pain flashed in Wen Xicheng's eyes, he turned around and supported himself against the edge of the bed.
I gasped unevenly, my eyes filled with fear and anger as I looked at him. A few seconds later, I picked up the electric heater from the ground and smashed it fiercely against his thin back, tears streaming down my face as I turned to run outside.
But before I could reach the door, Wen Xicheng chased after me, grabbing my wrist and pulling me into his arms. Despite my futile attempts to punch and kick him away, he softly stroked my back, repeatedly apologizing, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry..."
I bit my lip, choking back emotions, almost gasping for air. Alongside a deep sense of grievance, I felt a helplessness that I couldn't express, and an anger at my eventual submission! For a man I had repeatedly insisted I didn't love, I found myself inevitably responding to his kisses, leaving me utterly at a loss.
I don't know how long it took, but I finally calmed down. Looking up at the man who was still holding me tightly, I said coldly, "Wen Xicheng, do you really want to force me to leave this city like this?" His arms around me stiffened noticeably. He looked down, his gaze filled with pain, and was about to speak when his phone rang abruptly.
After taking a few deep breaths, Wen Xicheng finally released me and turned toward the coffee table. Seizing the opportunity, I turned around; just as I reached the door, I heard him answer a call.
"Hello, girl." I paused and turned my head, only to see his face instantly pale and his brow knit with worry. Wen Xicheng glanced at me and spoke into the phone, "Don't be afraid; we'll be there soon!" After speaking, he walked over to me, meeting my questioning gaze. Taking a deep breath, he held my shoulders and said, "Girl, they had a car accident. Zi Fei is currently in surgery!"
＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊
When we arrived at the hospital, several police officers were with Liu Ni Yi. I rushed over and saw her blood-stained coat, and my eyes instantly welled up with tears. Liu Ni Yi fell directly into my arms, crying bitterly. I held her close, watching the red light outside the operating room, feeling utterly helpless.
After the police left, Wen Xicheng approached us, draped his coat over Liu Ni Yi, and then hugged both of us tightly, softly saying, "Don't be afraid; nothing will happen. Zi Fei will be fine."
For some reason, hearing his calm and steady voice made my heart inexplicably lose its sense of panic. I turned to look; Liu Ni Yi was gripping Wen Xicheng's arm tightly, her gaze filled with trust.
I must admit that at certain moments, men do display greater strength than women. For the rest of the time, Wen Xicheng continued to hold Liu Ni Yi close, while I sat beside her, holding her hand in a gesture of comfort.
From her fragmented account, we learned about the accident. After expressing her decision to He Zi Fei, he drove recklessly and collided with a truck that suddenly swerved in front of him. At the critical moment, he swerved the steering wheel, crashing the driver's side into the truck. The front of the car crumpled instantly, while Liu Ni Yi's side sustained almost no damage.
When He Zi Fei was rescued, he remained conscious, his eyes wide with desperation as he searched until they landed on Liu Ni Yi, finding her unharmed. Only then did he slowly close his eyes, soon beginning to vomit blood.
I couldn't even begin to imagine that scene; just hearing about it sent a chill through my veins. When I felt a warm touch on my hand, I turned to see Wen Xicheng gently holding it over Liu Ni Yi's, smiling at me as he casually remarked, "Don't be afraid; it will be fine." I nodded softly. In that moment, I felt that the three of us were an inseparable whole, supporting each other through this difficult time.
Three hours later, the surgery concluded. It was the first time I realized that the most enchanting smile in the world comes from a doctor's relaxed expression upon leaving the operating room. He Zi Fei was severely injured, with three broken ribs piercing his chest, causing massive bleeding, a serious fracture in his left calf, and multiple soft tissue injuries, yet he was not in life-threatening danger!
This was already the best outcome, wasn't it? After Liu Ni Yi and I learned this diagnosis, we embraced each other and cried.
Wen Xicheng turned his head, his eyes reddened as he held us tightly in his arms and, with a solemn smile, said to the doctor, "Thank you!"
He Zi Fei, wrapped up like a mummy, was taken to the intensive care unit, and we followed him inside. After the doctor and nurses left, Wen Xicheng went downstairs to get some medicine. Looking at the man lying on the bed, filled with tubes and breathing faintly, I held Liu Ni Yi's shoulders and whispered, "He's willing to die for you; can you really bear to abandon him and marry someone else?"
Liu Ni Yi's tears welled up again. She crouched down, holding He Zi Fei's uninjured hand against her face, choked with emotion as she said, "I won't. No matter how difficult it gets, I will definitely be with him."
I looked at her and smiled, saying, "Then those three broken ribs were worth it!" Liu Ni Yi shot me a fierce glare. I laughed, my eyes once again reddening. They say women are made from a man's rib; He Zi Fei exchanged three ribs for a lifetime of love, which is indeed worth it!
That night, Liu Ni Yi stayed at the hospital while Wen Xicheng and I left around two in the morning. As the car drove through the quiet streets, I felt exhausted from the near-death experience.
Sitting beside Wen Xicheng, I felt no awkwardness. That earlier troubling kiss seemed insignificant in the face of life and death; I didn't even want to delve into it further, as if it were a distant memory. I wasn't inclined to ponder what my reaction at that moment truly meant. However, after that night at the hospital, I realized that my relationship with Wen Xicheng could never be severed, because... the intense kiss that had startled me before now felt trivial in light of life and death, and I no longer wanted to pursue it; it seemed to belong to another time altogether.
After that night at the hospital, I recognized it was impossible to sever ties with Wen Xicheng, as we shared mutual friends whom we both cared about. In times of crisis, my heart instinctively turned to him for support. Such emotions were too complicated and profound to completely erase. While the romantic feelings may have faded, the bond of friendship remained.
As he dropped me off at the apartment, Wen Xicheng called out to me just as I was getting out of the car.
I turned my head, "Hmm?"
He hesitated before saying, "I truly apologize for the kiss tonight. I'll make sure to control myself in the future. I hope you can forgive me."
I smiled, "I've already forgotten. Drive carefully on the road, and get some rest. Good night!"
A fleeting shadow of loneliness crossed his tired, pale face as he nodded and replied, "Good night!"
I didn't linger any longer and turned to leave.
After going upstairs and into my room, I walked to the balcony, waved down below, and watched as that black car turned around and left, gradually retracting my smile. I had never imagined that one day I would also start to pretend in front of Wen Xicheng. However, I couldn't maintain the same composure I had when dealing with Feng Suchuan's kiss; it was ultimately different, and I truly disliked this difference!
The next day, I first went to the company to request leave, then bought breakfast and headed straight to the hospital. On the way, I received a call from Wen Xicheng. He mentioned he had a meeting and would arrive a bit later. He Zifei was still in a deep sleep, while Liu Ni Yi had clearly not slept all night. After breakfast, she left once the doctor came to change He Zifei's bandages.
I sat by the bedside, looking at my friend who was still connected to the oxygen tube, my eyes unconsciously becoming red once again. If something were to happen to He Zifei, it wouldn't just be Liu Ni Yi who couldn't bear it.
I thought my life would also take a dark turn; for so many years, he had taken care of me like an older brother, sending me snacks from time to time. Whenever I faced troubles in work or life, he was always the first person who came to mind. No matter how busy he was, he would show up downstairs at my office within twenty-four hours, take me out to dinner, and then rush back overnight. I once told Liu Ni Yi that the person I wished the most to be happy in this world was He Zifei, because he truly was a good person!
Around ten, He Zifei slowly woke up. The moment he saw me, I caught a glimpse of barely perceptible disappointment in his eyes. I smiled and helped him elevate the bed. "Ni Yi stayed with you all night and just left; she'll probably be back soon." He Zifei took light breaths, responding intermittently, "I know, I woke up once last night." I poured him some hot water and placed a straw to his lips. "How do you feel?"
He took a couple of sips, and as he lay back down, a thin layer of sweat appeared on his forehead. "My whole body hurts; it's really uncomfortable."
I gently wiped the sweat from his forehead and smiled, "Then let me share some good news to ease your pain."
"What is it?"
"Ni Yi said that no matter how difficult it is, she wants to be with you!"
He Zifei's eyes, which had been slightly squinted, suddenly widened in shock as he looked at me. After a moment, his expression transformed into deep joy. "Did she tell you?"
I nodded, tracing my fingers in circles on his chest. "You broke three ribs here; is it worth it for her enduring companionship?"
He Zifei burst into laughter, but the pain made him clutch his chest. He gritted his teeth and struggled to breathe yet looked at me with bright eyes, saying, "Worth it! Absolutely worth it! Don't say three; even thirty would be worth it!"
I laughed aloud, "Do you have thirty ribs to spare? Take it easy; Ni Yi will be back soon."
He Zifei nodded and then called out to me, "Don't tell her I already know her decision; I want her to tell me in person."
I nodded knowingly, "That's essential. You can act more pained and then listen to her tearful confession; how touching!"
He Zifei rolled his eyes at me but then suddenly turned his head as he heard the door open. Upon seeing who it was, disappointment flickered in his eyes once more.
"Why are you here?"
Wen Xicheng walked in quietly, and upon hearing this, paused slightly before smiling effortlessly.
"I seem to have come at a bad time." He smiled at me and sat down beside He Zifei's bed, teasingly glancing at him.
He Zifei's smile was reassuring as he wiggled his finger, saying, "I really want to smoke!"
Wen Xicheng tilted his head, considering for a moment, and then looked at me, "I don't think we can make this decision."
I nodded in agreement, "This has to be determined by his girl."
He Zifei cleared his throat twice and cursed, "Get lost!" but the amusement in his eyes was unmistakable.
Wen Xicheng and I exchanged glances and laughed in unison.
The sun was shining brightly outside, mirroring our cheerful mood!
After Liu Ni Yi returned to the hospital, under He Zifei's series of subtle glances, Wen Xicheng and I joked about someone who blatantly prioritized romantic relationships over friendship as we left the ward.
Stepping out of the hospital, it was still before noon. Wen Xicheng waved the car keys a couple of times and then paused to look at me. "Heading back to work?"
Looking up at the clear blue sky dotted with a few floating clouds, I felt an indescribable joy. I turned to him and smiled, "Such nice weather is perfect for skipping work."
Wen Xicheng raised his arm and draped it over my shoulder. His eyes, clear as morning dew, met mine with a gentle smile. After his long, curled eyelashes fluttered, he asked, "Just as I thought! Shall we skip work?"
His fair face, bathed in sunlight, bore a hint of gentleness that perfectly matched the elegant young man in my memories. For a moment, I was dazed, almost enchanted, and gently nodded my head.
How often our minds fail to control our hearts!
We ventured to the bustling downtown area, and I led him to a dessert shop I frequented. The transparent windows framed the lively street outside. Four years ago, I would sit here for hours on countless weekend afternoons, reminiscing about memories I had long set aside, time and again!
Now, the man from my memories...
At this moment, the man sitting across from me has already become a distant memory!
"Do you come here often?"
"I used to."
Wen Xicheng noticed my reluctance to speak, pressed his lips together, and fell silent, gently twirling a small silver spoon while quietly gazing at me with eyes filled with a tenderness and affection I recognized all too well.
I didn't look at him, choosing instead to savor this fleeting moment of peace. In the first year after the breakup, I was consumed with sorting through my emotions. By the time I had somewhat recovered, I had become Feng Suchuan's capable assistant, always closely following in his footsteps. He never rested, and I too was busy, as if I had never experienced a moment of leisure like this; I hadn't seriously considered whether this life was truly what I wanted. The childhood dreams I once cherished had long been discarded, and I could no longer pursue even a fragment of them. I had adapted well to society, but in doing so, I had lost myself!
After finishing two puddings, I looked up at him and asked, "Do you have any dreams?"
Wen Xicheng paused, thought for a moment, and replied, "Now?"
I nodded with a smile.
"Does making you fall in love with me again count?"
I chuckled lightly, "It counts, but that's an unattainable dream; you'd better change it soon."
Wen Xicheng didn't get angry; it seemed he had developed a strong immunity to my rejections. "What about you? Any dreams?"
"I want to slow down and spend quality time with my parents." As soon as I said it, I regretted it; I saw his expression change instantly. I bit my lip in frustration and added, "I'm sorry, I…"
Wen Xicheng smiled and shook his head, "It's fine. Let's go have lunch."
He stood up to settle the bill. When he walked out of the dessert shop, his face wore a gentle smile. I sighed; it seemed I was getting worse at understanding him, while he had built an impenetrable wall around his heart! I wondered whose sorrow that was!
He Zifei needed to stay in the hospital for at least two months. Wen Xicheng and I visited him every night. Of course, many times he didn't really want to see us—the two glaring light bulbs—but life was pretty dull.
Amid our busy work, we tirelessly played the crucial role of light bulbs, filling the ward with laughter, as if we had returned to the days spent in Wen Xicheng's apartment during our university years.
After He Zifei was transferred out of the ICU, Wen Xicheng arranged for him to have a VIP single room, and He Zifei accepted without hesitation, unabashedly exclaiming, "This is what brothers do!" However, Liu Niyi privately informed me that He Zifei recorded all the hospital expenses on his computer. I understood he didn't intend to reimburse Wen Xicheng, yet he would hold this kindness in his heart and repay it in other ways.
Not long after Feng Suchuan returned from the United States, the Shanghai contract department officially took over a one-billion yuan project. All contracts needed to be discussed within the project team, which meant Feng Suchuan, Wen Xicheng, and I would have to travel to Shanghai frequently. Early on Friday, we received a notification to negotiate an equipment contract. I rode with Feng Suchuan, while Wen Xicheng and Alken took another car.
The meeting focused on the air conditioning equipment selected for the project.
I prepared a document based on the brand chosen during the bidding process, which included detailed technical specifications and reference prices. The contract department at the Shanghai branch also compiled materials for another brand, both of which are premier international brands capable of meeting the design requirements.
The crux of the debate revolved around after-sales service. The brand proposed by the Shanghai branch had its headquarters in Shanghai, which meant repairs could be conducted more promptly. However, its price was significantly higher than our proposed option. It could be said that both choices had their advantages and disadvantages. What puzzled me was Feng Suchuan's unwavering insistence on selecting our proposed brand, leaving almost no room for negotiation, which put Manager Su from the Shanghai branch in a challenging position.
Alken leaned toward the Shanghai branch while Wen Xicheng remained silent.
With Feng Suchuan being inflexible, the meeting reached an impasse. Just as the atmosphere grew increasingly tense, Wen Xicheng looked up, surveyed the room, closed both sets of materials, and spoke in a deep voice: "Both brands meet the requirements. In situations where both options are viable, it is crucial to evaluate."
What is real and what is merely a facade amid the confrontations at the conference table and the camaraderie behind closed doors? Everyone here is a master of disguise; even after years in the workplace, I still cannot see through it.
I looked up and met Wen Xicheng's gaze not far away. His eyes held the familiar warmth and concern, flowing into my heart like two clear springs in this murky air, significantly clearing my mind. I pressed my lips together, unsure if he could see, and mouthed, "Drink less." Seeing the man across from me nod slightly, I gradually smiled. Perhaps I may not understand many people, but the message conveyed in those eyes is always clear to me.
"There are some things you cannot control; you can only choose how to respond to them. So let's take it one step at a time." I nodded forcefully, gradually realizing that perhaps some matters cannot be forced. Accepting reality and seeking the best solution is key at this moment.
When we returned to the apartment, it was already quite late, and I felt a bit fatigued. Wen Xicheng's gaze lingered on me for a moment before he said softly, "I'll pick you up tomorrow night. Let's go out for dinner."
"Sure," I replied happily to the proposal, though a hint of worry crept in. "What if there's something urgent at your company?"
"It's fine; I will manage it," he replied firmly. I smiled slightly, my gratitude overwhelming.
As he left, I returned to the apartment and began contemplating the events of the day.
The words and actions of Feng Suchuan and Wen Xicheng made me realize that in the workplace, the support between friends often holds more significance than the outcomes.
I fundamentally disagreed with my father's approach to taking control of the mainland company. It is unreasonable for him to enjoy the fruits of others' hard work. Both Feng Suchuan and Manager Su are far more qualified than I am to manage the contracts. I believe that regardless of which manufacturer is chosen, the smooth progression of the project can be ensured, and that is sufficient. As for the power struggles between them, I have never been interested; what I desire should be clear to you!
My heart contracted slightly. Before I could respond, Wen Xicheng had already loosened his grip on my hand, not giving me the chance to speak. He ruffled my hair and smiled, "Go upstairs, get some rest. Sleep in tomorrow; I'll come pick you up to go to the hospital at noon."
I sighed internally, swallowing my words of persuasion, and nodded as I got out of the car.
Back in the apartment, I changed my shoes and stood in the living room for a while before walking towards the balcony.
Downstairs, Wen Xicheng leaned against the car, looking up in my direction. In the moonlight, his figure appeared tall and slender, with sparks dancing between his fingers.
I waved to him, but he didn't leave as usual; he flicked away the cigarette butt and lit another one instead.
In my memory, that clean-cut boy never smoked. His addiction must have begun during his time in the United States. Four years can bring significant changes; Wen Xicheng has transformed from a sensitive, fragile boy into a mature and composed man. That once-pampered boy, who wouldn't let me return to the dorm, can now light a cigarette and watch me turn away repeatedly.
If I still loved him, I could never bear to see such a change. I would always dote on him, protect him, and ensure he never suffered even a scratch!
On Monday, Wen Xicheng personally negotiated with the sales managers of two manufacturers. After securing a five-percent price reduction, a small meeting was convened to finalize the recommended brand from the Shanghai branch. As the results were announced, I kept my gaze fixed on Feng Suchuan. His expression revealed nothing; even the slightest furrow in his brow remained unchanged. I dared not imagine the strength he must possess within. I wondered if my previous self-consolations might seem childish to him.
April 2nd, the day after April Fool's Day, unfolded as an ordinary day. After work, Wen Xicheng and I went to the hospital as usual. Following two weeks of treatment, under Nizi's diligent care, He Zifei was recovering remarkably well and could already get out of bed with assistance.
Before dinner, he clamored for some alcohol. After obtaining Liu Niyi's consent, Wen Xicheng grabbed his jacket and left.
As soon as the door closed, He Zifei got out of bed and urged, "Hurry up, hurry up!"
Liu Niyi playfully glared at him while continuing to pull a birthday cake from the small refrigerator. I took a deep breath, tidied up the coffee table, and began to set out the dinner plates.
Today is Wen Xicheng's birthday. He mentioned that ever since turning six, he hasn't celebrated a birthday. We all know the reason, so we never bring it up. However, when I received a call from He Zifei at noon, he said, "Xia Tian, this year I want to help Xi Cheng celebrate his birthday."
Feeling a tightness in my throat, I softly replied, "I'll go buy the cake."
When Wen Xicheng returned, we turned off all the lights, just like they do on TV. He paused momentarily upon pushing the door open, and as he regained his senses, He Zifei lit the candles.
A faint smile graced all three of our faces, while Wen Xicheng stood there, momentarily stunned. He stared at the flickering flames for quite a while before suddenly looking down.
My eyes turned red, and Ni Zi turned her head, burying her face in He Zi Fei's shoulder.
He Zi Fei gently stroked her back, his fingers—still holding a cigarette—trembling slightly as he softly said, "Bro, happy birthday!"
Wen Xi Cheng remained standing still; his tense posture clearly revealed the tumultuous emotions swirling inside him. After a while, Ni Zi broke away from He Zi Fei's embrace and pulled Wen Xi Cheng toward the coffee table. "Blow out the candles quickly; we have gifts for you."
Wen Xi Cheng looked up, his eyes slightly red as he glanced at us, took a deep breath, and blew out the candles. The room fell dark again, with only a few thin beams of moonlight filtering through the curtains.
"What about the gifts?" Wen Xi Cheng's voice was thick with nasal congestion, which made us stifle our laughter.
He Zi Fei, leaning against Liu Ni Yi for support, slowly moved to Wen Xi Cheng's side. He coughed a couple of times before gently hugging him.
In the moonlight, a glimmer of emotion flashed in Wen Xi Cheng's eyes, but he simply pressed his lips together and looked at He Zi Fei. "Is this it?"
He Zi Fei smiled silently, exchanging a knowing look with Liu Ni Yi. Liu Ni Yi lowered her head, trembling slightly, and stepped forward to give him a gentle hug, whispering, "Xi Cheng, happy birthday!"
Once she finished, the other three turned to look at me in unison.
I widened my eyes, feeling a bit flustered as I glanced between He Zi Fei and Liu Ni Yi. No one had mentioned that this was part of the plan. Originally, we had agreed that after blowing out the candles, He Zi Fei would hug him, and then we'd start dinner!
With six pairs of sparkling eyes filled with anticipation fixed on me, I felt like I had been sold out. Biting my lip, I walked over, slowly extending my arms and mimicking Liu Ni Yi's earlier gesture, gently wrapping my arms around Wen Xi Cheng's waist. However, as I tried to pull away, I found myself tightly embraced.
My face pressed against Wen Xi Cheng's chest, and I could clearly hear his rapid and chaotic heartbeat. He pulled me fully into his embrace, resting his chin on my forehead as the warmth of his familiar scent enveloped me.
The room was unusually quiet, and the sound of his heartbeat echoed heavily in my ears, disrupting my senses and stirring feelings that had long been dormant.
I thought that if I had even a bit of willpower, I should immediately push him away and escape this enchantingly intoxicating embrace. Yet, in reality, I didn't; instead of pushing him away, my hands that were wrapped around his waist gently caressed his lean back, as if we had done this a thousand times before—so natural, so comforting!
I had no idea how long we stood there until Liu Ni Yi's teasing voice broke through, "I say, birthday boy, even if it's just to take advantage, there should be a limit, right? The food is getting cold; can we eat first?"
The enchanting atmosphere in the room instantly dissipated. I felt flustered and wanted to break free from his embrace, but then I heard a soft, husky voice that was incredibly gentle: "I'm very happy today; thank you all for the birthday gifts!"
As he finished speaking, the arm that had been wrapped around me slowly fell away.
I looked up at the man in front of me, his face adorned with a familiar and tender smile, but I could see the sadness and helplessness hidden behind it.
My heart seemed to start aching again!
In mid-April, the company organized a trip: a five-day, four-night tour to Hainan.
Each department left in batches. Feng Suchuan and I couldn't leave at the same time; he was in the first group while I was in the second. However, he chose to forgo the trip due to being too busy with work. Initially, I planned to do the same, but when the list was announced, Wen Xicheng texted me on MSN: [We're in the same batch.]
Through the cold glow of the computer screen, I could almost see his hopeful expression.
After biting my lip and thinking for a moment, I replied, "Yeah!" As soon as I hit send, I regretted it, feeling rather silly.
On Friday morning, before dawn, the tour bus departed from the company to the airport. After passing through security and boarding, we sat on the plane for two hours, arriving in Haikou around one in the afternoon. The tour guide picked us up and took us on a bumpy hour-and-a-half ride to the hotel. I shared a room with Song Ying, while Wen Xicheng had a room to himself.
Once we settled in, it wasn't yet time for a meal. Many people went swimming, and Song Ying eagerly left the room in her swimsuit. I took a shower, changed into comfortable clothes, and stepped onto the balcony to enjoy the breeze.
We stayed in a sea-view room, and from the south balcony, I could clearly see the vast, boundless ocean not far away—pristine and beautiful without a hint of pollution. The sky was a deep, clear blue, with white clouds of various shapes floating above. Such pure colors seemed to purify one's soul, evoking a sense of relaxation and joy.
When a knock sounded at the door, I sighed internally, opened it, and saw a man in white casual clothes, smiling elegantly. "I guessed it was you." Wen Xicheng lowered his eyes and smiled. "Can I say we have an unspoken connection?"
I glared at him, "Why didn't you go swimming?"
"Didn't feel like it." He walked to the balcony, leaning on the railing and gazing into the distance. After a few moments, he turned to me, "Do you want to take a walk by the sea?"
I was a bit surprised. "Now? Isn't dinner coming up soon?"
Wen Xicheng turned, lazily leaning against the railing. The afterglow of the setting sun illuminated him from behind, casting a soft, hazy light that enhanced the gentle expression on his face, creating an indescribably beautiful scene. He smiled faintly, "The sea at sunset is beautiful, but it's fleeting. We still have forty minutes until dinner; that's enough time."
I nodded absently. As I turned away, I gently pressed my hand to my chest; the little thing inside was beating a bit unusually.
He was right; the sea under the sunset was indeed stunning, with an orange-red band connecting the sea and sky—a breathtaking sight!
We walked to the beach and found a spot on the sand to sit side by side.
I bent down, hugging my legs and gazing into the distance, while Wen Xicheng quietly looked at me, propping his hands behind him in the sand.
Even with such a serene sea, my increasing restlessness remained uncalmed. I felt warmth rising on my cheeks from those two penetrating gazes behind me.
Clearing my throat softly, I feigned nonchalance, "Let's go back."
As I turned, the man next to me lowered his eyelids, concealing all his emotions. He didn't respond. A few seconds later, he propped his arm under his head, slowly reclined, then looked at me with calmness in his eyes, hinting at a smile, "You go back first; I'll stay a bit longer."
I nodded lightly, got up, and walked away. After covering some distance, I glanced back; the last ray of sunset had just vanished, and the beach had plunged into darkness. Wen Xicheng still lay on his back with his legs bent. I couldn't see his expression, but I sensed a faint sadness enveloping him.
My heart ached again, and this time it was even clearer.
I didn't see Wen Xicheng during dinner, and after the meal, I accompanied Song Ying to the beach.
The night sea breeze was a bit strong, rippling the water's surface and reflecting a dim deep blue in the moonlight.
Taking a deep breath, my lungs filled with the salty sea air.
"Our boss!" Song Ying whispered excitedly, grabbing my arm.
Not far away, a white figure sat on the beach, slightly hunched over, hugging his legs. When the breeze lifted, it made his clothes sway gently, accentuating his somewhat slender frame.
I remained silent, stopping in my tracks to quietly observe him.
I could no longer remember how long it had been since I had allowed myself to scrutinize him so freely, even if it was just his back. After our reunion and a moment of hesitation, we ultimately missed our chance. Once I decided to give up, I built a wall around all his affection in my heart, indifferent and unwilling to be hurt again. Yet I never dared to consider the depth of his own hurt.
Celebrating in the hospital room, the restraint in his eyes touched the softest part of my heart, stabbing at it from time to time, intensifying the closer I approached him. The past had already left no trace; why did my heart ache now? Perhaps it was the loneliness and sadness behind his forced smile, or perhaps his tenderness in the face of my repeated rejections was a sign of helplessness. I couldn't find the answer.
My distant thoughts were interrupted by Song Ying's dissatisfied voice. "Isn't that Liu Lin? She finally got her chance. It's summer; let's go over there." I glanced over and spotted a slender figure in ultra-short hot pants and a snug tank top. I pursed my lips and smiled, grabbing Song Ying's arm. "Handsome guys and pretty girls, under the ambiguity of moonlight—what trouble do you hope to stir up over there?" Song Ying pouted, glancing back reluctantly a few times before turning to follow me.
After walking a short distance along the seaside, I glanced back. Wen Xicheng was already standing next to Liu Lin, both gazing into the distance. I didn't know why, but it seemed that no matter who stood beside him, it looked harmonious—except for me.
"And then?" she finally asked, still processing what I had just shared.
I took a moment to gather my thoughts. "And then… I lost him." A wistful sigh escaped my lips. "I thought we had a future together, but life had other plans. We parted ways, and I buried those feelings deep down. I never thought I would see him again, especially not in the same workplace."
"Wow," Song Ying remarked, her eyes wide with surprise. "That must have been really hard for you."
"It was," I admitted, feeling a lump form in my throat. "But I learned to move on. At least, I thought I had. Seeing him again brought back all those emotions I thought I'd laid to rest."
She nodded slowly, her expression shifting from shock to understanding. "So, what do you feel now?"
I gazed out at the horizon, the waves gently caressing the shore. "It's complicated. There's still a part of me that cares for him deeply, but there's also the pain of what once was. I don't want to complicate things further; I've built a life without him."
"But it's clear there's something between you two," Song Ying pressed gently. "Maybe it's worth exploring. What if he feels the same way?"
I shrugged, a mix of hope and doubt swirling within me. "Maybe. But can we really go back to the way things were? Sometimes, I wonder if it's better to keep those feelings buried rather than risk getting hurt again."
Song Ying gave me a sympathetic look. "You deserve to be happy, whether that's with him or not. Just be true to yourself."
"Thanks, Song Ying," I said, appreciating her support. "I'll think about it."
And in that moment, amidst the soft whispers of the sea breeze, I felt a flicker of possibility—a spark of courage to confront the past that had lingered so resolutely in my heart.
I looked up at the starry sky, determined to keep the bitterness from spilling over. "Then he went abroad. A year later, he told me he was engaged to someone else. Now he has a beautiful American fiancée. We're just classmates now."
Tears, however, could not withstand such memories and began to fall slowly. Fortunately, it was dark, and those around me didn't notice. Song Ying hugged my arm and kept comforting me, while in my ears, there was only the faint sound of the wind, soft and pleasant.
After so many years of entanglement, it all boiled down to these few sentences; yet for someone deeply affected, it was impossible to extricate oneself.
After Song Ying left, I lingered by the seaside a little longer, only standing up when I started to feel a slight chill. As I turned, I was startled to see a figure behind me. Wen Xicheng was standing there; I had no idea when he had arrived. At that moment, when he saw me patting my chest, he smiled, and the dim moonlight illuminated his gentle expression, which was hard for me to bear.
Rubbing my arms, I walked over to him. "When did you start standing there? You didn't say a word, scaring me in your white clothes!"
Wen Xicheng's smile deepened as he walked alongside me toward the hotel. "I came over as soon as Song Ying left. What were you thinking? You seemed so lost in thought."
I pouted, dodging his question. "What about Liu Lin?"
He looked clearly stunned. "Who is Liu Lin?"
I choked, rolling my eyes. "The fiery beauty from just now."
"I don't know her."
Wen Xicheng obviously wasn't interested in this topic. Turning to me with a furrowed brow, he asked, "Are you hungry?"
I abandoned my teasing and nodded honestly. A smile returned to his face as he put his arm around my shoulders. "Shall we go for some barbecue?"
I fidgeted a bit; seeing he had no intention of letting go, I was silent for a moment before gently nodding.
Looking at his profile, I felt as if we had returned to the days when we were still close friends in college.
Back then, he would occasionally drape his arm over my shoulders like this. My heart felt a bit awkward, just like now, but I didn't know how to refuse. It felt as if everything had cycled back to the starting point; having loved, hated, and disregarded him, I returned to that primitive emotion. I lowered my head, slowly savoring the indescribable bittersweet feelings within me, yet I always felt something was missing compared to before.
A gust of sea breeze swept by, prompting the person beside me to pull me closer. Sensing my body stiffen, he quickly created some distance, allowing his arm to drop from my shoulder. I bit my lip, adjusting my uneven steps as I moved forward, realizing that the earlier feeling of being stirred had faded!
In the next three days, we explored Yalong Bay, Nanshan Scenic Area, Xidao, and other attractions, and everyone had a wonderful time. On our last night in Hainan, we opted to stay in Sanya and enjoy street seafood at the company's expense rather than letting the tour guide make arrangements. More than thirty of us were divided into three tables, and Wen Xicheng and I were not seated together.
Once the dishes were served, the male colleagues began drinking. Being the highest-ranking leader in our group, Wen Xicheng became the primary target for drunk toasts. After stealing a few glances at him and realizing that worrying wouldn't change anything, I buried my head in my plate.
Around ten o'clock, after several rounds of drinks, it was evident that everyone was noticeably intoxicated. A few colleagues who usually got along well with me urged me to engage in a drinking contest with Wen Xicheng. Naturally, I refused, turning to glare at each of them fiercely.
Clearly impaired, they grabbed wine bottles and dragged Wen Xicheng toward me. "Xiàtiān, look, our boss is already…"
"Come over personally; you wouldn't want to embarrass us, would you?"
I threw an exaggerated eye roll, stood up, and glanced at Wen Xicheng with concern. He rested one hand on the back of my chair and held a wine glass in the other. A faint smile graced his pale face, and his eyes sparkled with warmth. He didn't speak but simply nodded, tilting his head back to down half a glass of baijiu.
Seeing him furrow his brow slightly, I felt as though a hand gently squeezed my heart, conjuring a mix of pain and numbness.
I sighed helplessly, just about to lift my wine glass when Wen Xicheng reached out to hold it down. His lips curved slightly as he lowered his head, gently brushing my hand aside to take the glass and down its contents in one go.
A burst of whistling erupted from the crowd, and everyone began to tease me, causing my face to flush with embarrassment. Wen Xicheng leaned back in his chair, chuckling softly. After a moment, he looked at everyone and, with a seductive laziness in his voice, said, "It's a man's duty to cherish and protect a lady."
The crowd erupted in laughter, and other female colleagues rushed over, eager to drink with him. Clearly a bit tipsy, Wen Xicheng leaned back slightly and smiled at Liu Lin, who was approaching, saying, "Can we drink later? I need to step out for a moment."
With such a handsome face and a soft tone, no one could refuse him, and Liu Lin's cheeks flushed as she shyly nodded. Wen Xicheng straightened up and said "Thank you," his gaze lingering on me for a moment before he turned to leave the room.
I sat there for a while, then quietly slipped out while no one was watching.
The restroom at the food stall was quite rudimentary. As I approached, I could hear water running from inside. After waiting for a while, Wen Xicheng finally emerged, droplets of water clinging to his face and hair, his eyes red-rimmed and his expression pained.
I quickly hurried over to support him, my tone filled with concern. "How much did you drink?"
He tilted his head to look at me, as if pondering seriously. After a few seconds, he pursed his lips and shook his head. "I don't know—lots and lots!" he replied, gently grasping my hand as he spoke.
Sensing his evident drunkenness, I didn't pull away. He mentioned he didn't want to return to the room, so I helped him sit down by the roadside.
The cool night breeze blew away much of the day's heat, caressing my face comfortably.
Wen Xicheng rested his head on my lap, pulling my hand to his stomach and rubbing it gently. I watched his hair dance in the wind, feeling a warm softness expand within me. After a moment, I placed my free hand softly on his back to comfort him.
After a slight pause, the man beside me gradually relaxed completely. Wen Xicheng didn't lift his head, tracing my palm with his fingers, as if inscribing words on my skin. The gentle night breeze brushed by, the atmosphere was serene, and the air was laced with the intoxicating scent of alcohol. My heart, muddled from the drink, drifted aimlessly, yet this moment felt infinitely beautiful.
Wen Xicheng repeatedly wrote three characters on my hand, causing me to bite my lip and feel my face burn with embarrassment. When I heard a commotion behind us, I guessed the party was winding down. I quickly withdrew my hand and stood up. Wen Xicheng swayed a bit as I pulled him up. After he steadied himself against the curb, he looked at me with bright, clear black eyes that reflected warmth and tenderness. I covered my flushed cheeks, avoiding his intense gaze, and lowered my head as I headed towards the restaurant.
As I ascended the steps, my mind was blank, and warmth surged around my ears, wanting nothing more than to escape his gaze.
"Watch out!"
With a frantic shout from behind, I heard a loud "bang"—my forehead hit the glass door ahead! Hearing footsteps approaching, I turned to look but felt a warm liquid trickling down from my left brow. Suddenly, everything before my eyes turned blood red. Instinctively, I covered my eyes and crouched down, sensing someone steadying me. I was completely dazed, acutely aware of the warm liquid flowing continuously between my fingers. My first thought was that I was done for; with so much blood, I would surely go blind!
"Ah! Xia Tian is bleeding!"
As someone lifted me off the ground, I heard Song Ying's sharp scream. My hands tightly covered my eyes as a trembling voice repeatedly called my name, each cry laced with panic. I wanted to respond, but my thoughts began to blur. I buried my face in a familiar chest, and my consciousness was gradually engulfed by darkness.
I don't know how long later, I heard someone calling my name. As I regained consciousness, I didn't open my eyes right away; instead, I started to move my fingers and immediately felt my hand being gripped tightly.
"Xia Tian! You're awake?" Wen Xicheng's voice was a mix of excitement and trembling.
I nodded.
"Miss, try to open your eyes," came a gentle voice.
I hesitated for a moment, then slowly opened my eyes. At first, everything was blurry, but gradually it cleared, revealing a doctor in a white coat and Wen Xicheng's worried, pale face.
"Can you see clearly?" the doctor asked me.
I nodded again.
"You didn't injure your eyes; there's just a cut on your brow that needs a small stitch. Don't worry; it's fine," the doctor said softly after examining my eyes.
Wen Xicheng let out a long sigh of relief. I smiled at him, and he bit his lip, gripping my hand tightly, his eyes filled with deep concern.
After the anesthesia was applied to my brow bone, the doctor expertly began to stitch me up. I felt a bit scared, firmly grasping Wen Xicheng's hand, and when the last two stitches came, I felt a sharp, piercing pain, causing me to grip his hand even more tightly.
"What's wrong? Is it very painful?" Wen Xicheng's voice was filled with worry.
Before I could answer, the doctor swiftly snipped the thread, and after bandaging the wound, he said apologetically, "The last two stitches didn't quite take the anesthesia; it might hurt a bit, but you're all stitched up now. Please rest a bit, and then we'll attend to your injury."
I hadn't said anything yet when the doctor quickly cut the ends of the threads and, after bandaging my wound, said apologetically, "The last two stitches didn't receive anesthesia, so it might hurt a bit. It's all done now; just rest, get a tetanus shot, and you can leave. You'll have the stitches removed in three days."
I sat up and looked at the man beside me with a troubled expression, tugging at his arm to signal him not to cause any trouble.
After the doctor left, a few colleagues entered with concerned looks. I released Wen Xicheng's hand, feeling a little embarrassed. We were supposed to be enjoying our trip, but I had frightened everyone; fortunately, we were returning tomorrow afternoon. I smiled and assured them I was fine, insisting they should go back to the hotel first. Once everyone left, Wen Xicheng approached, sighed, and gently held me in his arms, stroking my hair, whispering, "Does it hurt?"
I shook my head, but my eyes began to redden; the façade of strength crumbled instantly, and I felt so fragile inside. The thought of the blood I had lost still left me in shock; I didn't want to acknowledge how intimate our current closeness was; I just longed for comfort and warmth.
After receiving the shot, I returned to the hotel around one in the morning.
Wen Xicheng continued to hold me gently. As we entered the elevator, he said, "It's late now; Song Ying has probably gone to sleep. Let's stay in my room tonight."
I hung my head and remained silent.
"And just in case you develop a fever or the pain becomes too much, I wouldn't feel comfortable leaving you alone."
I looked up at him and softly replied, "It doesn't hurt."
"Be good!" He frowned slightly, his tone turning a bit stern, and pressed the button for his floor.
Once we reached the guest room, after a quick wash, I lay on the bed. Wen Xicheng emerged from the shower, glanced at me, and then turned to rummage through his suitcase. He returned with a large T-shirt.
"Take off your clothes; they're all stained with blood."
I clutched the blanket, thought for a moment, and nodded. Just as I was about to get off the bed, he held my shoulders down.
"I'll go to the balcony; you can change while lying on the bed."
I bit my lip and lowered my head. After he took a few steps out, he added, "You should also take off your jeans; it's uncomfortable to sleep in them."
I buried my head, feeling overly embarrassed. Did he really have to be so straightforward?
After I changed clothes, I nestled into the blanket. Wen Xicheng returned a while later, poured a cup of hot water, and placed it on the bedside table before sitting on the edge of the other bed, looking at me.
"Aren't you going to sleep?" I felt my face heat up under his gaze and mumbled quietly.
After a long sigh, he moved closer and sat by my bed. He reached out to touch my forehead and said in a slightly hoarse voice, "Why are you so worrisome? Just because I got up a little late, such a big issue happened. Xia Tian, you really scared me to death! When you fainted with blood all over your face in my arms, I honestly thought the sky was falling!"
I buried my face in the pillow and muttered, "I didn't do it on purpose; I was scared too."
"Don't press on the wound; sleep lying flat!" Wen Xicheng adjusted my head with both hands, smiling once it was positioned correctly.
I rolled my eyes at him and closed my eyes.
A moment later, I felt gentle strokes on my forehead. His fingers were slightly cool, softly rubbing around the wound, which felt extremely soothing.
I opened my eyes to look at him. "You should go to sleep; you must be exhausted after all the fussing last night."
He adjusted my head again, continuing to caress around the wound, and smiled, "I'm not sleepy; you just sleep well."
I pursed my lips silently for a moment, then closed my eyes.
I didn't know if it was because I was too tired or because his massage felt so good, but my eyelids grew heavier until I drifted into a deep sleep.
The coolness on my forehead lingered, while the burning pain at the wound seemed to diminish.
That night, I slept unusually well, free of dreams. When I opened my eyes in the morning, his cool fingers were still resting on my wound, and Wen Xicheng was sitting on the carpet, leaning against my bed, peacefully asleep. Sunlight streamed through the gaps in the curtains, casting delicate beams onto the man's fair face, bathing it in a soft glow that made his handsome features appear extraordinarily beautiful. I distinctly heard the defenses I had built in my heart shatter with a single "bang!"