The Long Road Ahead: C01

Chapter: 1 | Kindling with the Heart

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Kindling with the Heart

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This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

_{The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"}
"I got a new boyfriend."

The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

_{But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.}Letting out a smile to the air itself, Xiao Ning still went on to say, "...Happy New Year."

But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.

_{The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.}
When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.

_{Kindling with the Heart}At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

Kindling with the Heart

_{However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.}This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.

_{What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.}When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

_{From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.}
He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind. But despite this state of freshness not holding for very long with Lu Yan, after he tasted the sweetness that was Xiao Ning, he was in no way willing to let him go. Thus began their entangled friendship.

From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.

_{Lu Yan's parents still invited him to join in their celebrations, despite knowing he was a loner. But Xiao Ning had no wish to go see the fresh-out-of-the-oven couple openly display their enamourment, choosing to simply send them a gift instead, along with the excuse for his absence being a trip in which he had to partake, and his wish to not disturb their celebration.}
As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.

Lu Yan's parents still invited him to join in their celebrations, despite knowing he was a loner. But Xiao Ning had no wish to go see the fresh-out-of-the-oven couple openly display their enamourment, choosing to simply send them a gift instead, along with the excuse for his absence being a trip in which he had to partake, and his wish to not disturb their celebration.

_{There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.}What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.

_{He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind.}As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.

He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind. But despite this state of freshness not holding for very long with Lu Yan, after he tasted the sweetness that was Xiao Ning, he was in no way willing to let him go. Thus began their entangled friendship.

_{As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.}But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.

_{Kindling with the Heart}
And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.

Kindling with the Heart

_{The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"}Kindling with the Heart

The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

_{"Don't be ridiculous. I'll just tidy up there myself. I just spent time there a month earlier, anyhow." Xiao Ning then heard his phone ring. Before he answered it, Lu Yan peeked over at the screen in his hand, asking, "Who is it?"}
That matter was Lu Yan.

"Don't be ridiculous. I'll just tidy up there myself. I just spent time there a month earlier, anyhow." Xiao Ning then heard his phone ring. Before he answered it, Lu Yan peeked over at the screen in his hand, asking, "Who is it?"

_{There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.}When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.

There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.

_{{The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?}}You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own. So, from his intellect to his looks, he was seen as outstanding beyond measure. But when it came to his character, however, he left others with a headache. This was on account of his being spoiled from head to toe, and his propensity for getting into trouble. But, fortunately, he was still fearful of his father, a man who was a former soldier himself, so Lu Yan didn't stir up trouble at his family's home.

The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?

_{However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was.}
You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own. So, from his intellect to his looks, he was seen as outstanding beyond measure. But when it came to his character, however, he left others with a headache. This was on account of his being spoiled from head to toe, and his propensity for getting into trouble. But, fortunately, he was still fearful of his father, a man who was a former soldier himself, so Lu Yan didn't stir up trouble at his family's home.

However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was. It was just that as Lu Yan had kept growing older, the better he had gotten at putting on this sort of act. No longer would he behave as rebelliously as he had been as a child. He acted in compliance within the Lu household until he got outside. Such a level of two-facedness would allow him to win a best-actor title. To the the outsiders, all they see is a lively and cheerful guy, who is warm and delightful to others. Only towards Xiao Ning, would he display these sort of arrogant gestures. This innate bad temper of his, for who knows how many times, caused Xiao Ning offence. Yet, despite all this, Xiao Ning had stayed in touch with him for such a long time.

_{"I got a new boyfriend."}From over his shoulder, Lu Yan also took a peek, "Bai Ye (White Night)?"

"I got a new boyfriend."

_{Kindling with the Heart}All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.

Kindling with the Heart

_{And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.}
All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.

And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.

_{{Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.}}In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

_{That matter was Lu Yan.}As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.

That matter was Lu Yan.

_{Given his indifference, Xiao Ning usually appeared to be much more reliable than Lu Yan, yet the truth was he was the one half a year younger of the two. Taking a seat beside Lu Yan on the other sofa, he thought back to an incident a few days earlier, when Lu Yan went out and failed to return for the night, giving him a hunch that made him ask, "Have you two met up in person?"}He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind. But despite this state of freshness not holding for very long with Lu Yan, after he tasted the sweetness that was Xiao Ning, he was in no way willing to let him go. Thus began their entangled friendship.

Given his indifference, Xiao Ning usually appeared to be much more reliable than Lu Yan, yet the truth was he was the one half a year younger of the two. Taking a seat beside Lu Yan on the other sofa, he thought back to an incident a few days earlier, when Lu Yan went out and failed to return for the night, giving him a hunch that made him ask, "Have you two met up in person?"

_{Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."}
When it came to Young Master Lu, Xiao Ning reckons he knows far more about Lu Yan than even Lu Yan's parents. So now in his twenty-seventh year, what aspect of Lu Yan's virtue was there that he could be considered unaware of?

Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."

_{However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was.}The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was. It was just that as Lu Yan had kept growing older, the better he had gotten at putting on this sort of act. No longer would he behave as rebelliously as he had been as a child. He acted in compliance within the Lu household until he got outside. Such a level of two-facedness would allow him to win a best-actor title. To the the outsiders, all they see is a lively and cheerful guy, who is warm and delightful to others. Only towards Xiao Ning, would he display these sort of arrogant gestures. This innate bad temper of his, for who knows how many times, caused Xiao Ning offence. Yet, despite all this, Xiao Ning had stayed in touch with him for such a long time.

_{"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.}Looking at Lu Yan carefully, he nodded and then asked, "So should I go stay somewhere else for a few days?"

"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.

_{This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning.}
Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.

This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

_{"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"}Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."

"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"

_{Dong dong dong dong...}However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.

Dong dong dong dong...

_{Looking at Lu Yan carefully, he nodded and then asked, "So should I go stay somewhere else for a few days?"}
It was also due in part to Lu Yan's looks being just too remarkable. Thus, men and women alike were all devoured. And because of that pretty baby face of his, whoever laid eyes on it would fall head over heels completely. On top of all this, he also possessed a pair of slanted, long, and irresistible phoenix eyes, eyes that with only a squint on his part, coupled with a faint smile, would truly force anyone who witnessed it to grow weak in the knees—making them enthralled, and allowing his every endeavour to result in success.

Looking at Lu Yan carefully, he nodded and then asked, "So should I go stay somewhere else for a few days?"

_{However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was.}However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was. It was just that as Lu Yan had kept growing older, the better he had gotten at putting on this sort of act. No longer would he behave as rebelliously as he had been as a child. He acted in compliance within the Lu household until he got outside. Such a level of two-facedness would allow him to win a best-actor title. To the the outsiders, all they see is a lively and cheerful guy, who is warm and delightful to others. Only towards Xiao Ning, would he display these sort of arrogant gestures. This innate bad temper of his, for who knows how many times, caused Xiao Ning offence. Yet, despite all this, Xiao Ning had stayed in touch with him for such a long time.

However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was. It was just that as Lu Yan had kept growing older, the better he had gotten at putting on this sort of act. No longer would he behave as rebelliously as he had been as a child. He acted in compliance within the Lu household until he got outside. Such a level of two-facedness would allow him to win a best-actor title. To the the outsiders, all they see is a lively and cheerful guy, who is warm and delightful to others. Only towards Xiao Ning, would he display these sort of arrogant gestures. This innate bad temper of his, for who knows how many times, caused Xiao Ning offence. Yet, despite all this, Xiao Ning had stayed in touch with him for such a long time.

_{Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."}The author has something to say: The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).

Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

_{All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.}
But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good. So good, it was to the point where even Xiao Ning could not ignore it. By the second month though, his mind would begin to wonder, his thoughts filling with growing resentment to how the other person wasn't obedient enough, or how they were too wilful. So by the time the third month came knocking, he would be thoroughly unable to stand the situation any longer; it seemed as though if he didn't switch to someone new he would no longer be able to go on from that very day!

All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.

_{This former boss of Xiao Ning's was always so random, which was why Xiao Ning never took his words too seriously and, seeing that Lu Yan had already grown irritated beside him, he added smilingly, "If it's not anything urgent, you can just tell me about it tomorrow."}
Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

This former boss of Xiao Ning's was always so random, which was why Xiao Ning never took his words too seriously and, seeing that Lu Yan had already grown irritated beside him, he added smilingly, "If it's not anything urgent, you can just tell me about it tomorrow."

_{As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.}Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."

As luck would have it, Xiao Ning, for both his days in high school and those in university, would also have his tuition subsidized by Lu Yan's family. All of this was due to Lu Yan's parents both being quite fond of him because they felt that not only was he a good student, but him being of good character and an honest and upright boy—one worthy of being their son's beneficial friend.

_{There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.}
What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.

_{"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."}
At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

_{Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.}Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"

Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.

_{From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.}He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind. But despite this state of freshness not holding for very long with Lu Yan, after he tasted the sweetness that was Xiao Ning, he was in no way willing to let him go. Thus began their entangled friendship.

From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.

_{Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."}
Lu Yan's parents still invited him to join in their celebrations, despite knowing he was a loner. But Xiao Ning had no wish to go see the fresh-out-of-the-oven couple openly display their enamourment, choosing to simply send them a gift instead, along with the excuse for his absence being a trip in which he had to partake, and his wish to not disturb their celebration.

Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

_{The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"}But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

_{Xiao Ning felt as though he should at least keep his sigh to himself, but he just couldn't manage it, as every inch of him was tired. That stіffened and unchanging heart of his had no temperament left after all those years of being kneaded out by Lu Yan.}
However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.

Xiao Ning felt as though he should at least keep his sigh to himself, but he just couldn't manage it, as every inch of him was tired. That stіffened and unchanging heart of his had no temperament left after all those years of being kneaded out by Lu Yan.

_{Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"}From over his shoulder, Lu Yan also took a peek, "Bai Ye (White Night)?"

Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"

_{Dong dong dong dong...}
As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.

Dong dong dong dong...

_{His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.}This former boss of Xiao Ning's was always so random, which was why Xiao Ning never took his words too seriously and, seeing that Lu Yan had already grown irritated beside him, he added smilingly, "If it's not anything urgent, you can just tell me about it tomorrow."

His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.

_{{The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?}}Kindling with the Heart

The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?

_{"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."}Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.

"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

_{With him being like this, Xiao Ning did not have the heart to look at him. If it really were simply a matter of playing around, he would've definitely dropped it. But Wang Hua was clearly in trouble and urgently waiting for his help. So Xiao Ning had to break this pattern, "Tomorrow, I'll bring you over some break..."}
The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

With him being like this, Xiao Ning did not have the heart to look at him. If it really were simply a matter of playing around, he would've definitely dropped it. But Wang Hua was clearly in trouble and urgently waiting for his help. So Xiao Ning had to break this pattern, "Tomorrow, I'll bring you over some break..."

_{"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."}From over his shoulder, Lu Yan also took a peek, "Bai Ye (White Night)?"

"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."

_{Looking at Lu Yan carefully, he nodded and then asked, "So should I go stay somewhere else for a few days?"}Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

Looking at Lu Yan carefully, he nodded and then asked, "So should I go stay somewhere else for a few days?"

_{When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.}Dong dong dong dong...

When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.

_{Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"}
Xiao Ning replied with a hum, his ears noticing the sharp voice of a woman coming from the other line as well. That other voice screeched and laughed, sounding very much like its owner was quite happy, "Yeah, it's not anything serious by the way. I just wanted to tell you..."

Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"

_{Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.}"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.

_{His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.}However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.

His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.

_{After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.}When it came to Young Master Lu, Xiao Ning reckons he knows far more about Lu Yan than even Lu Yan's parents. So now in his twenty-seventh year, what aspect of Lu Yan's virtue was there that he could be considered unaware of?

After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.

_{But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.}
Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"

But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.

_{Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."}But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

_{Lu Yan chuckled in response. That careless and scatter-brained appearance of his, was also rather attractive as well, "Yeah, we met. He came to A-City on a business trip one time. Oh, but now that he graduated and resigned from his internship, he's planning to go play around for a bit so he came to find me."}
Dong dong dong dong...

Lu Yan chuckled in response. That careless and scatter-brained appearance of his, was also rather attractive as well, "Yeah, we met. He came to A-City on a business trip one time. Oh, but now that he graduated and resigned from his internship, he's planning to go play around for a bit so he came to find me."

_{"I got a new boyfriend."}"I'll send you the address. You head over here fast, alright? I'll put out the fire first." Seeing that Xiao Ning appeared to no longer attempt to squirm out of it, Wang Hua ended the call, then sent a message with the address a few seconds afterwards.

"I got a new boyfriend."

_{But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?}
The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.

But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

_{From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.}Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.

_{This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning.}"Wang-ge?" Xiao Ning almost laughed, "What's wrong?"

This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

_{The author has something to say:
The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).}
Letting out a smile to the air itself, Xiao Ning still went on to say, "...Happy New Year."

The author has something to say:
The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).

_{"Wang-ge?" Xiao Ning almost laughed, "What's wrong?"}
After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.

"Wang-ge?" Xiao Ning almost laughed, "What's wrong?"

_{The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"}Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."

The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

_{When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.}Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

_{"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."}What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

_{Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."}
Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?

Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."

_{Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"}After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.

Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"

_{In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.}
However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was. It was just that as Lu Yan had kept growing older, the better he had gotten at putting on this sort of act. No longer would he behave as rebelliously as he had been as a child. He acted in compliance within the Lu household until he got outside. Such a level of two-facedness would allow him to win a best-actor title. To the the outsiders, all they see is a lively and cheerful guy, who is warm and delightful to others. Only towards Xiao Ning, would he display these sort of arrogant gestures. This innate bad temper of his, for who knows how many times, caused Xiao Ning offence. Yet, despite all this, Xiao Ning had stayed in touch with him for such a long time.

In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

_{Xiao Ning replied with a hum, his ears noticing the sharp voice of a woman coming from the other line as well. That other voice screeched and laughed, sounding very much like its owner was quite happy, "Yeah, it's not anything serious by the way. I just wanted to tell you..."}Dong dong dong dong...

Xiao Ning replied with a hum, his ears noticing the sharp voice of a woman coming from the other line as well. That other voice screeched and laughed, sounding very much like its owner was quite happy, "Yeah, it's not anything serious by the way. I just wanted to tell you..."

_{As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.}His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.

As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.

_{Hence, the present situation—one where Xiao Ning had no other way of thinking. Placing a warm cup of tea in Lu Yan's hands, he then moved to virtuously tidy up the cіgarette ash on the table, while he calmly asked, "Where did you two meet?"}
The only thing there was to blame for such an event, was their first meeting being too wonderful and occurring far too early in their lives. You see, Xiao Ning at that time had yet to have had the layers of armour to protect his young heart sprout. So later, when he had become aware they had grown, the things within it had long been buried quite deep. So at the outermost part of this shell—where those memories akin to the embers of a campfire—the attachments which lay at the bottom of his heart could not bear to let them part and struggled in their final throes of death.

Hence, the present situation—one where Xiao Ning had no other way of thinking. Placing a warm cup of tea in Lu Yan's hands, he then moved to virtuously tidy up the cіgarette ash on the table, while he calmly asked, "Where did you two meet?"

_{In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.}The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.

In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

_{"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.}What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.

_{There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.}Kindling with the Heart

There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.

_{"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."}
Hence, the present situation—one where Xiao Ning had no other way of thinking. Placing a warm cup of tea in Lu Yan's hands, he then moved to virtuously tidy up the cіgarette ash on the table, while he calmly asked, "Where did you two meet?"

"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."

_{Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.}It was also due in part to Lu Yan's looks being just too remarkable. Thus, men and women alike were all devoured. And because of that pretty baby face of his, whoever laid eyes on it would fall head over heels completely. On top of all this, he also possessed a pair of slanted, long, and irresistible phoenix eyes, eyes that with only a squint on his part, coupled with a faint smile, would truly force anyone who witnessed it to grow weak in the knees—making them enthralled, and allowing his every endeavour to result in success.

Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

_{At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.}Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

_{However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.}
Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.

_{At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.}
Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

_{However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was.}That matter was Lu Yan.

However, Xiao Ning couldn't hold such a thing against Lu Yan, at all. Even he did not know when it had become the way it was. It was just that as Lu Yan had kept growing older, the better he had gotten at putting on this sort of act. No longer would he behave as rebelliously as he had been as a child. He acted in compliance within the Lu household until he got outside. Such a level of two-facedness would allow him to win a best-actor title. To the the outsiders, all they see is a lively and cheerful guy, who is warm and delightful to others. Only towards Xiao Ning, would he display these sort of arrogant gestures. This innate bad temper of his, for who knows how many times, caused Xiao Ning offence. Yet, despite all this, Xiao Ning had stayed in touch with him for such a long time.

_{Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"}
Given his indifference, Xiao Ning usually appeared to be much more reliable than Lu Yan, yet the truth was he was the one half a year younger of the two. Taking a seat beside Lu Yan on the other sofa, he thought back to an incident a few days earlier, when Lu Yan went out and failed to return for the night, giving him a hunch that made him ask, "Have you two met up in person?"

Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"

_{The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"}At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

The crackle and pops of the firecrackers being released on the other end of the line could be heard, Lu Yan was known to love those sorts of festive things, thus his reply was given in a shout: "Hello?! Is that you, Xiao Ning?"

_{"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"}From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.

"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"

_{What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.}
Lu Yan chuckled in response. That careless and scatter-brained appearance of his, was also rather attractive as well, "Yeah, we met. He came to A-City on a business trip one time. Oh, but now that he graduated and resigned from his internship, he's planning to go play around for a bit so he came to find me."

What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

_{"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."}"Are you heading over to the other place for a few days?" Lu Yan flopped back on the sofa, "Oh, should I ask Aunty to drop by and clean the place up for you then?"

"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."

_{Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."}Xiao Ning couldn't help but laugh. This guy, who loves to go playing around and living life to its fullest, failed to mention the times he also made me go out to pick him up in the dead of night. Or when he came back at five o'clock in the morning, reeking of liquor, to wake me up and ask for me to make him a midnight snack. Yet now he could still sit there and say those words without an ounce of shame?

Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

_{{But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?}}Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

_{"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.}
Xiao Ning felt as though he should at least keep his sigh to himself, but he just couldn't manage it, as every inch of him was tired. That stіffened and unchanging heart of his had no temperament left after all those years of being kneaded out by Lu Yan.

"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.

_{Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.}Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

_{That matter was Lu Yan.}Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say: Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god. As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.

That matter was Lu Yan.

_{Dong dong dong dong...}You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own. So, from his intellect to his looks, he was seen as outstanding beyond measure. But when it came to his character, however, he left others with a headache. This was on account of his being spoiled from head to toe, and his propensity for getting into trouble. But, fortunately, he was still fearful of his father, a man who was a former soldier himself, so Lu Yan didn't stir up trouble at his family's home.

Dong dong dong dong...

_{That matter was Lu Yan.}
Looking at Lu Yan carefully, he nodded and then asked, "So should I go stay somewhere else for a few days?"

That matter was Lu Yan.

_{Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."}The author has something to say: The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).

Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."

_{That matter was Lu Yan.}That matter was Lu Yan.

That matter was Lu Yan.

_{You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own.}
This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own. So, from his intellect to his looks, he was seen as outstanding beyond measure. But when it came to his character, however, he left others with a headache. This was on account of his being spoiled from head to toe, and his propensity for getting into trouble. But, fortunately, he was still fearful of his father, a man who was a former soldier himself, so Lu Yan didn't stir up trouble at his family's home.

_{Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?}Xiao Ning felt as though he should at least keep his sigh to himself, but he just couldn't manage it, as every inch of him was tired. That stіffened and unchanging heart of his had no temperament left after all those years of being kneaded out by Lu Yan.

Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?

_{Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?}
But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.

Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?

_{"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."}Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?

"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

_{{But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?}}What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

_{Hearing this, Xiao Ning's brows furrowed. Even though Wang Hua said ridiculous things most of the time, he currently really did seem as though he had a problem.}
From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.

Hearing this, Xiao Ning's brows furrowed. Even though Wang Hua said ridiculous things most of the time, he currently really did seem as though he had a problem. When Xiao Ning first entered Wang Hua's company before, he was still very much a dumb new graduate, so back then, it was always Wang Hua who took care of him. Until Xiao Ning had resigned, the other man had given him much consideration, even helping him cover up a few of his mistakes several times.

_{{The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?}}So, if Wang Hua truly had a problem, Xiao Ning would obviously not stand idly by, "What happened?"

The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?

_{Kindling with the Heart}"Don't be ridiculous. I'll just tidy up there myself. I just spent time there a month earlier, anyhow." Xiao Ning then heard his phone ring. Before he answered it, Lu Yan peeked over at the screen in his hand, asking, "Who is it?"

Kindling with the Heart

_{From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.}Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

From time to time, Lu Yan would bring his partners over, and when he did, Xiao Ning would willingly make himself scarce. Hence, at this time, he would obviously be doing the same thing too.

_{As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.}
"Are you heading over to the other place for a few days?" Lu Yan flopped back on the sofa, "Oh, should I ask Aunty to drop by and clean the place up for you then?"

As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.

_{Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"}When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"

_{However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.}Xiao Ning felt as though he should at least keep his sigh to himself, but he just couldn't manage it, as every inch of him was tired. That stіffened and unchanging heart of his had no temperament left after all those years of being kneaded out by Lu Yan.

However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.

_{The only thing there was to blame for such an event, was their first meeting being too wonderful and occurring far too early in their lives. You see, Xiao Ning at that time had yet to have had the layers of armour to protect his young heart sprout.}
There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.

The only thing there was to blame for such an event, was their first meeting being too wonderful and occurring far too early in their lives. You see, Xiao Ning at that time had yet to have had the layers of armour to protect his young heart sprout. So later, when he had become aware they had grown, the things within it had long been buried quite deep. So at the outermost part of this shell—where those memories akin to the embers of a campfire—the attachments which lay at the bottom of his heart could not bear to let them part and struggled in their final throes of death.

_{So, if Wang Hua truly had a problem, Xiao Ning would obviously not stand idly by, "What happened?"}
The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?

So, if Wang Hua truly had a problem, Xiao Ning would obviously not stand idly by, "What happened?"

_{When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.}At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

_{Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."}All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.

Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."

_{After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.}
"Don't be ridiculous. I'll just tidy up there myself. I just spent time there a month earlier, anyhow." Xiao Ning then heard his phone ring. Before he answered it, Lu Yan peeked over at the screen in his hand, asking, "Who is it?"

After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.

_{Lu Yan's parents still invited him to join in their celebrations, despite knowing he was a loner. But Xiao Ning had no wish to go see the fresh-out-of-the-oven couple openly display their enamourment, choosing to simply send them a gift instead, along with the excuse for his absence being a trip in which he had to partake, and his wish to not disturb their celebration.}Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"

Lu Yan's parents still invited him to join in their celebrations, despite knowing he was a loner. But Xiao Ning had no wish to go see the fresh-out-of-the-oven couple openly display their enamourment, choosing to simply send them a gift instead, along with the excuse for his absence being a trip in which he had to partake, and his wish to not disturb their celebration.

_{When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.}This former boss of Xiao Ning's was always so random, which was why Xiao Ning never took his words too seriously and, seeing that Lu Yan had already grown irritated beside him, he added smilingly, "If it's not anything urgent, you can just tell me about it tomorrow."

When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.

_{He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind.}
When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.

He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind. But despite this state of freshness not holding for very long with Lu Yan, after he tasted the sweetness that was Xiao Ning, he was in no way willing to let him go. Thus began their entangled friendship.

_{"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."}"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

_{But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good.}
"It's Wang Hua." Xiao Ning did not have the habit of avoiding Lu Yan when he took calls. Besides, Lu Yan also knew Wang Hua, as the man was Xiao Ning's old superior before he transferred over to a new company called Rihua.

But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good. So good, it was to the point where even Xiao Ning could not ignore it. By the second month though, his mind would begin to wonder, his thoughts filling with growing resentment to how the other person wasn't obedient enough, or how they were too wilful. So by the time the third month came knocking, he would be thoroughly unable to stand the situation any longer; it seemed as though if he didn't switch to someone new he would no longer be able to go on from that very day!

_{What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.}Lu Yan interrupted, and shouted: "Hey, I can't hear you very well, stuff over here is super hectic, so I gotta hang now, okay? I'll call you later. Happy New Year!"

What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

_{At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.}Hearing this, Xiao Ning thought to himself, But weren't you having a good time?

At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

_{Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.}Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

_{When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.}
Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"

When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

_{It was also due in part to Lu Yan's looks being just too remarkable. Thus, men and women alike were all devoured.}
"Wang-ge?" Xiao Ning almost laughed, "What's wrong?"

It was also due in part to Lu Yan's looks being just too remarkable. Thus, men and women alike were all devoured. And because of that pretty baby face of his, whoever laid eyes on it would fall head over heels completely. On top of all this, he also possessed a pair of slanted, long, and irresistible phoenix eyes, eyes that with only a squint on his part, coupled with a faint smile, would truly force anyone who witnessed it to grow weak in the knees—making them enthralled, and allowing his every endeavour to result in success.

_{Xiao Ning couldn't help but laugh. This guy, who loves to go playing around and living life to its fullest, failed to mention the times he also made me go out to pick him up in the dead of night.}But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.

Xiao Ning couldn't help but laugh. This guy, who loves to go playing around and living life to its fullest, failed to mention the times he also made me go out to pick him up in the dead of night. Or when he came back at five o'clock in the morning, reeking of liquor, to wake me up and ask for me to make him a midnight snack. Yet now he could still sit there and say those words without an ounce of shame?

_{In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.}He and Lu Yan had first met when they were kids; as a matter of fact, they were childhood friends. Xiao Ning was a gloomy and scary child when he was little, so apart from that 'lover of new playthings' known as Lu Yan, no one was willing to pay him any mind. But despite this state of freshness not holding for very long with Lu Yan, after he tasted the sweetness that was Xiao Ning, he was in no way willing to let him go. Thus began their entangled friendship.

In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

_{When it came to Young Master Lu, Xiao Ning reckons he knows far more about Lu Yan than even Lu Yan's parents. So now in his twenty-seventh year, what aspect of Lu Yan's virtue was there that he could be considered unaware of?}You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own. So, from his intellect to his looks, he was seen as outstanding beyond measure. But when it came to his character, however, he left others with a headache. This was on account of his being spoiled from head to toe, and his propensity for getting into trouble. But, fortunately, he was still fearful of his father, a man who was a former soldier himself, so Lu Yan didn't stir up trouble at his family's home.

When it came to Young Master Lu, Xiao Ning reckons he knows far more about Lu Yan than even Lu Yan's parents. So now in his twenty-seventh year, what aspect of Lu Yan's virtue was there that he could be considered unaware of?

_{When it came to Young Master Lu, Xiao Ning reckons he knows far more about Lu Yan than even Lu Yan's parents. So now in his twenty-seventh year, what aspect of Lu Yan's virtue was there that he could be considered unaware of?}
Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."

When it came to Young Master Lu, Xiao Ning reckons he knows far more about Lu Yan than even Lu Yan's parents. So now in his twenty-seventh year, what aspect of Lu Yan's virtue was there that he could be considered unaware of?

_{Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."}The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.

Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

_{"I'll send you the address. You head over here fast, alright? I'll put out the fire first." Seeing that Xiao Ning appeared to no longer attempt to squirm out of it, Wang Hua ended the call, then sent a message with the address a few seconds afterwards.}
This former boss of Xiao Ning's was always so random, which was why Xiao Ning never took his words too seriously and, seeing that Lu Yan had already grown irritated beside him, he added smilingly, "If it's not anything urgent, you can just tell me about it tomorrow."

"I'll send you the address. You head over here fast, alright? I'll put out the fire first." Seeing that Xiao Ning appeared to no longer attempt to squirm out of it, Wang Hua ended the call, then sent a message with the address a few seconds afterwards.

_{Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say: Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god. As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.}This former boss of Xiao Ning's was always so random, which was why Xiao Ning never took his words too seriously and, seeing that Lu Yan had already grown irritated beside him, he added smilingly, "If it's not anything urgent, you can just tell me about it tomorrow."

Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say: Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god. As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.

_{Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.}
"But by tomorrow, I may not even have a future or a wife—or kid either." Wang Hua then continued, "I really can't think of a better person for this. So, little brother, can't you do me this favour just once? You can't just leave me hanging."

Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.

_{Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."}"I'll send you the address. You head over here fast, alright? I'll put out the fire first." Seeing that Xiao Ning appeared to no longer attempt to squirm out of it, Wang Hua ended the call, then sent a message with the address a few seconds afterwards.

Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

_{However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.}Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.

_{At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.}Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"

At the New Year's celebration the year before, such a plot unfolded. Lu Yan had returned to his family's home during that period, bringing along with him his then-girlfriend a that time. They were as sweet as sugar and honey, and the elders of the house were overjoyed and excited about it. Having thought about it, Xiao Ning already knew what this excitement would look like.

_{When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.}
Hearing this, Xiao Ning's brows furrowed. Even though Wang Hua said ridiculous things most of the time, he currently really did seem as though he had a problem. When Xiao Ning first entered Wang Hua's company before, he was still very much a dumb new graduate, so back then, it was always Wang Hua who took care of him. Until Xiao Ning had resigned, the other man had given him much consideration, even helping him cover up a few of his mistakes several times.

When he's head over heels in love he neglects his friends and has no time for Xiao Ning, but when he is with Xiao Ning, he can't stand anyone else being a distraction.

_{This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning.}Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say: Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god. As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.

This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

_{In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.}The author has something to say: The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).

In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

_{Xiao Ning opened the message and took a look, not recognising the location at all.}
So, if Wang Hua truly had a problem, Xiao Ning would obviously not stand idly by, "What happened?"

Xiao Ning opened the message and took a look, not recognising the location at all.

_{{But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?}}But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good. So good, it was to the point where even Xiao Ning could not ignore it. By the second month though, his mind would begin to wonder, his thoughts filling with growing resentment to how the other person wasn't obedient enough, or how they were too wilful. So by the time the third month came knocking, he would be thoroughly unable to stand the situation any longer; it seemed as though if he didn't switch to someone new he would no longer be able to go on from that very day!

But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

_{"I got a new boyfriend."}
"I'll send you the address. You head over here fast, alright? I'll put out the fire first." Seeing that Xiao Ning appeared to no longer attempt to squirm out of it, Wang Hua ended the call, then sent a message with the address a few seconds afterwards.

"I got a new boyfriend."

_{The only thing there was to blame for such an event, was their first meeting being too wonderful and occurring far too early in their lives. You see, Xiao Ning at that time had yet to have had the layers of armour to protect his young heart sprout.}Given his indifference, Xiao Ning usually appeared to be much more reliable than Lu Yan, yet the truth was he was the one half a year younger of the two. Taking a seat beside Lu Yan on the other sofa, he thought back to an incident a few days earlier, when Lu Yan went out and failed to return for the night, giving him a hunch that made him ask, "Have you two met up in person?"

The only thing there was to blame for such an event, was their first meeting being too wonderful and occurring far too early in their lives. You see, Xiao Ning at that time had yet to have had the layers of armour to protect his young heart sprout. So later, when he had become aware they had grown, the things within it had long been buried quite deep. So at the outermost part of this shell—where those memories akin to the embers of a campfire—the attachments which lay at the bottom of his heart could not bear to let them part and struggled in their final throes of death.

_{But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good.}Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say: Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god. As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.

But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good. So good, it was to the point where even Xiao Ning could not ignore it. By the second month though, his mind would begin to wonder, his thoughts filling with growing resentment to how the other person wasn't obedient enough, or how they were too wilful. So by the time the third month came knocking, he would be thoroughly unable to stand the situation any longer; it seemed as though if he didn't switch to someone new he would no longer be able to go on from that very day!

_{His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.}
Xiao Ning opened the message and took a look, not recognising the location at all.

His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.

_{Dong dong dong dong...}So, if Wang Hua truly had a problem, Xiao Ning would obviously not stand idly by, "What happened?"

Dong dong dong dong...

_{"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"}
From over his shoulder, Lu Yan also took a peek, "Bai Ye (White Night)?"

"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"

_{"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."}This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."

_{"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."}
"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."

"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."

_{After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.}Lu Yan sipped the tea, satisfaction beaming in his eyes, "We met in an online game."

After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.

_{Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.}
"Right now?" Lu Yan's face did not look pleased at all. "Why are you even going there? Were you asked to go there to drink? You don't even like doing stuff like that. Look at the time right now, yet he still called you out from so far away to do something troublesome. What kind of friend is that?"

Hence, in the end, he would leave with high spirits then return with his spirits low, never missing the chance to make his way to find Xiao Ning and air his grievances as if the one who did the dumping was not him at all, and as if the one greatly wronged in the matter was he, himself. Showing an utter lack of awareness of his actions as he acted spoiled towards Xiao Ning.

_{However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.}
Xiao Ning couldn't help but laugh. This guy, who loves to go playing around and living life to its fullest, failed to mention the times he also made me go out to pick him up in the dead of night. Or when he came back at five o'clock in the morning, reeking of liquor, to wake me up and ask for me to make him a midnight snack. Yet now he could still sit there and say those words without an ounce of shame?

However, Xiao Ning did not really go anywhere at that time, he had actually spent that year's celebration standing in the central square of the city for the entirety of the night. Doing so with with all of the other homeless vagabonds who all stared at the New Year's Gala being transmitted on the huge screen above them, and freezing his behind off to the point he had forgotten his own family name.

_{"Are you heading over to the other place for a few days?" Lu Yan flopped back on the sofa, "Oh, should I ask Aunty to drop by and clean the place up for you then?"}Lu Yan chuckled in response. That careless and scatter-brained appearance of his, was also rather attractive as well, "Yeah, we met. He came to A-City on a business trip one time. Oh, but now that he graduated and resigned from his internship, he's planning to go play around for a bit so he came to find me."

"Are you heading over to the other place for a few days?" Lu Yan flopped back on the sofa, "Oh, should I ask Aunty to drop by and clean the place up for you then?"

_{What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.}But the thing was, to whoever he snagged, Lu Yan was the most devoted lover during their first month together. All of his heart and all of his soul were invested, so to that person, he was incredibly good. So good, it was to the point where even Xiao Ning could not ignore it. By the second month though, his mind would begin to wonder, his thoughts filling with growing resentment to how the other person wasn't obedient enough, or how they were too wilful. So by the time the third month came knocking, he would be thoroughly unable to stand the situation any longer; it seemed as though if he didn't switch to someone new he would no longer be able to go on from that very day!

What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

_{The author has something to say: The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).}In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

The author has something to say: The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).

_{The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?}
Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?

_{What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.}Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"

What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

_{Letting out a smile to the air itself, Xiao Ning still went on to say, "...Happy New Year."}
"Anyway, I'll go check on the other apartment on my way there. If it's nothing serious, I'll go straight there on my way back. Your friend... I mean, your boyfriend will be arriving tomorrow, yes?" Xiao Ning smiled, picking up his coat and wallet, "My room doesn't need to be tidied up, by the way. It's quite clean."

Letting out a smile to the air itself, Xiao Ning still went on to say, "...Happy New Year."

_{When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.}Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

When Lu Yan made this declaration, Xiao Ning did not really feel all that much hurt. After all, even if his nerves were thin, after being dragged back and forth the way it had been, even that skinny thing can grow thicker. Let alone the one of someone like Xiao Ning, whose temperament was already rather gentle.

_{However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.}The next day had almost arrived, the night was almost over, so where exactly would there be the time to find someone to go there and clean it?

However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.

_{Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."}
But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

_{Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."}Kindling with the Heart

Wang Hua then explained miserably, "Someone is trying to force me into a life of walking the streets, and you're the only person I can rely on."

_{There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.}Whether it was boyfriends or girlfriends, even Lu Yan himself did not know how many he had gone through. Furthermore, those whims of Lu Yan's had shown more diligence than a woman's cyсle. Even if it could not be regarded as love at first sight, for that feeling of novelty of his, no one was ever refused.

There was another apartment under Lu Yan's name in A-City, but it was much too far away from the main transit area so transportation was inconvenient, and the living facilities were incomplete. Lu Yan also did not like going there to rest at all, so at times like these, Xiao Ning would go there to stay.

_{After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.}The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.

After the Spring Festival was over, Lu Yan again returned to the city. And, as par for the course, he shared his innermost feelings with Xiao Ning. Grumbling about how his girlfriend had no sensibility, didn't know where to find anything for him at his family home, and couldn't serve him properly.

_{Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.}
However, this matter was none of Xiao Ning's business.

Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

_{All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.}Xiao Ning felt as though he should at least keep his sigh to himself, but he just couldn't manage it, as every inch of him was tired. That stіffened and unchanging heart of his had no temperament left after all those years of being kneaded out by Lu Yan.

All of this meant Xiao Ning would often cover for Lu Yan with Mother Lu and Father Lu, and of course, the matter of Lu Yan's bisеxuality was included in the matters to be hidden.

_{Dong dong dong dong...}Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

Dong dong dong dong...

_{Given his indifference, Xiao Ning usually appeared to be much more reliable than Lu Yan, yet the truth was he was the one half a year younger of the two. Taking a seat beside Lu Yan on the other sofa, he thought back to an incident a few days earlier, when Lu Yan went out and failed to return for the night, giving him a hunch that made him ask, "Have you two met up in person?"}
Lu Yan stared at him, seeming somewhat angered and a bit wronged, "He's not here yet."

Given his indifference, Xiao Ning usually appeared to be much more reliable than Lu Yan, yet the truth was he was the one half a year younger of the two. Taking a seat beside Lu Yan on the other sofa, he thought back to an incident a few days earlier, when Lu Yan went out and failed to return for the night, giving him a hunch that made him ask, "Have you two met up in person?"

_{"Are you heading over to the other place for a few days?" Lu Yan flopped back on the sofa, "Oh, should I ask Aunty to drop by and clean the place up for you then?"}
With him being like this, Xiao Ning did not have the heart to look at him. If it really were simply a matter of playing around, he would've definitely dropped it. But Wang Hua was clearly in trouble and urgently waiting for his help. So Xiao Ning had to break this pattern, "Tomorrow, I'll bring you over some break..."

"Are you heading over to the other place for a few days?" Lu Yan flopped back on the sofa, "Oh, should I ask Aunty to drop by and clean the place up for you then?"

_{Kindling with the Heart}Just as he said this, he complained, "Xiao Ning, in the beginning, it was you who didn't want to play that game with me, so I had no choice but to meet a few new people in the game."

Kindling with the Heart

_{{Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.}}As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.

Young Master Lu, this character point of yours is really consistent, lacking any chance of change over all these years. So only the officials are allowed to set fires as they make their mischief, while the common folk aren't allowed to set so much as a match alight.

_{What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.}What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

What could Xiao Ning do about this, though? His only option was to coax and coddle that 'poor' person until they felt better, as after many years of such a habit, even he, himself, couldn't seem to change it.

_{Xiao Ning replied with a hum, his ears noticing the sharp voice of a woman coming from the other line as well. That other voice screeched and laughed, sounding very much like its owner was quite happy, "Yeah, it's not anything serious by the way. I just wanted to tell you..."}
Guessing that Lu Yan would most likely not get up early to eat breakfast during the weekend, Xiao Ning switched it, "Lunch. What would you like? You said you wanted to eat some shrimp wontons this morning, yeah? Or how about some curried chicken from that place on Main Street? I remember you really liked it last time, so how about I bring you some?"

Xiao Ning replied with a hum, his ears noticing the sharp voice of a woman coming from the other line as well. That other voice screeched and laughed, sounding very much like its owner was quite happy, "Yeah, it's not anything serious by the way. I just wanted to tell you..."

_{"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."}As the host on the television counted down the arriving year, Xiao Ning had blown out a breath of air before pulling out his phone with trembling fingers. Those fingers of his were stiff as he gave Lu Yan a call, the other party to this gesture answering it rather quickly.

"Bai Ye?" It sounded like the name of a bar. Xiao Ning frowned, thinking to himself, for a short while, then stood up, "You can go to bed now, I'll go see what's going on."

_{This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning.}You see, in the eyes of those elders within the Lu household, Lu Yan was viewed as an all-around good child, having no shortcomings to be seen at all. Ever since Lu Yan was young until the present, he had been labelled "that kid" by those who knew of him—you know, the one kid good at everything who all parents hold up as an example to their own. So, from his intellect to his looks, he was seen as outstanding beyond measure. But when it came to his character, however, he left others with a headache. This was on account of his being spoiled from head to toe, and his propensity for getting into trouble. But, fortunately, he was still fearful of his father, a man who was a former soldier himself, so Lu Yan didn't stir up trouble at his family's home.

This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

_{Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"}But isn't it likely that person would be staying in Lu Yan's room?

Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"

_{Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"}
His saying those things meant he was surely going to leave, hence Lu Yan's expression turning frigid, with his then ignoring Xiao Ning as he went to his bedroom, slamming the door heavily to show just how pissed he was because of it.

Without hesitation, Xiao Ning pressed the button and accepted the call, only to immediately hear the other person cry out from the other end, "Help me, Xiao Ning!"

_{And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.}Xiao Ning opened the message and took a look, not recognising the location at all.

And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.

_{Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say:
Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god.
As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.}
In response, Xiao Ning sighed, turning off the television before walking out the door.

Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say:
Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god.
As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.

_{And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.}It was also due in part to Lu Yan's looks being just too remarkable. Thus, men and women alike were all devoured. And because of that pretty baby face of his, whoever laid eyes on it would fall head over heels completely. On top of all this, he also possessed a pair of slanted, long, and irresistible phoenix eyes, eyes that with only a squint on his part, coupled with a faint smile, would truly force anyone who witnessed it to grow weak in the knees—making them enthralled, and allowing his every endeavour to result in success.

And regarding those two elders of the Lu household, Xiao Ding also considered them as his own parents, being filial towards them. However, there was one matter he was rather ashamed to face them with.

_{But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.}This downtown apartment was bought for Lu Yan by his family, and from the outset, he never asked Xiao Ning's opinion, only dragging him there to live with him after their graduation as if such a thing was expected. Xiao Ning neither paid the rent there, nor the utilities, but Lu Yan paid no attention to the daily expenses and necessities, so the task of keeping the place like a home was left to Xiao Ning. Thus from the orchid on the windowsill to the shampoo in the bathroom, such things were all bought by him.

But, in the end, Xiao Ning was still considered a guest there, so there were still things he should be conscientious of—stuff he had to be conscientious of.

_{"I got a new boyfriend."}The New Year's Bel tolled to announce the year's arrival, is that how that phrase is said? And everyone in the entire country erupted into a sea of joy.

"I got a new boyfriend."

---

Author's Note:

The author has something to say:
The couple will be Shan Haiming X Xiao Ning, but I didn't say the gong's name, obviously. His surname (单: dān/Chán/Shàn) which has the same sound as (善: shàn).

Notes:

Your unfriendly neighbourhood translator has something to say:
Our couple is：单海鸣X萧宁 (Shan Hai'ming x Xiao Ning) aka NOT LU YAN, thank god.
As shown above, the Xiāo (dreary/mugwort) in our MC's name is not 小(Xiǎo: little). But that second Xiao (little) is used as a prefix for our Little Ning by his seniors (Wang Hua) and Lu Yan sometimes.

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