CM: C04

Chapter: 4 | Chapter Four

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Chapter Four

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This novel was posted on cnt18 [dot] blogsp0t [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

_{"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.}
Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.

"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

_{At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."}Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.

At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

_{At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."}"I'll buy it, okay. Besides, soon it'll be them who should be giving you gifts." Helian Qing held the steering wheel, stealing glances at Han Yang who sat beside him, "Just a bit of sweet talker, huh?"

At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

_{Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.}Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

_{After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.}
Due to his inner biological clock, Helian Qing had already woken up long ago, yet he remained reclined on the bed, maintaining the same position. All this was because on this morning in particular, he awoke to discover the one who tried to avoid him, as well as keep a distance between them, was now deeply asleep on the pit of his stomach.

After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.

_{Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"}Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.

Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"

_{洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit.}After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.

洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit. severe floods and fierce beasts; fig. a great scourge/catastrophe. Basically, it defines something that is scary and dangerous or in this instance a certain Tsundere~[]不吐槽会死星人: lit. not ridiculing a dying star(alien in JPN) This one took a bit of research but from what I found it basically it means someone who normally ridicules others not ridiculing them. Translated as: not taking a jab, which is to annoy or criticize others.[]Why the shower question? Taking showers in the morning seems to not be common in Chinese culture. Bathing usually happens in the evening before bed.

_{The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.}"I'm sorry." Han Yang quickly got off his body. He did not know for how long Helian Qing had been awake, or if he had been sleeping like that since last night. Wouldn't he be quite tired having spent all that time holding such a posture?

The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

_{"Grandad." Helian Qing called out to the old man playing chess. Han Yang was unsure on how to address the man, moving his lips to call to Helian Lao Yezi, he just followed after HeLian Qing then stood beside him.}
Unlike their first two interactions, which consisted mostly of polite alienation, after falling asleep Han Yang seemed to appear unimaginably more gentle. In that room, his features became indescribably soft. The corners of his mouth rose ever so slightly, as he dreamt of something quite amusing, he even acted like a spoiled kid, nuzzling against him a few times.

"Grandad." Helian Qing called out to the old man playing chess. Han Yang was unsure on how to address the man, moving his lips to call to Helian Lao Yezi, he just followed after HeLian Qing then stood beside him.

_{Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.}"..." But I don't want to.

Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.

_{"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."}
Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.

"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."

_{Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.}When compared to the small village he grew up in, Han Yang thought Helian Qing's three bedroom, living room plus dining room house was already more than luxurious. But at this time, when he caught sight of the Helian's family home he knew it wasn't just more extravagant, it was too extravagant as a matter of fact.

Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

_{Ten minutes later, Han Yang woke up. Helian Qing's sudden return had made his nerves a little tense, causing him to not fall asleep until it was past midnight.}
Ten minutes later, Han Yang woke up. Helian Qing's sudden return had made his nerves a little tense, causing him to not fall asleep until it was past midnight.

Ten minutes later, Han Yang woke up. Helian Qing's sudden return had made his nerves a little tense, causing him to not fall asleep until it was past midnight.

_{While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.}Chapter Four

While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.

_{Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."} At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.

Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

_{Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.}"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

_{"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.}
Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.

_{Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."} "What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.

Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

_{Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.}"Han Yang peeked towards where Lao Yezi played chess all by his lonesome, whispering, "Is it okay that we're here?"

Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.

_{"Do you usually shower this early in the morning?" Han Yang asked absentmindedly, regretting his question as soon as the words left his lips. He looked at the man's face to see that, all too familiar, mocking expression emerge just as expected.}"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

"Do you usually shower this early in the morning?" Han Yang asked absentmindedly, regretting his question as soon as the words left his lips. He looked at the man's face to see that, all too familiar, mocking expression emerge just as expected.

_{At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.}
Now, that dream of his younger years faded into the distance, Grandpa had become old and grey, and Pang Jiaozi, who had been at his side as he grew up, had also passed away.

At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.

_{"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.}"Han Yang peeked towards where Lao Yezi played chess all by his lonesome, whispering, "Is it okay that we're here?"

"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.

_{"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."}While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.

"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."

_{With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still.}
Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.

With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still. What he did not expect was Han Yang to be, well, okay. Instead, he predicted that other would arise to treat him as a 'great scourge' before hastily retreating like always. Tch, he hasn't run away yet, huh?

_{Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.}"What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.

Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

_{Ten minutes later, Han Yang woke up. Helian Qing's sudden return had made his nerves a little tense, causing him to not fall asleep until it was past midnight.}"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab at him as usual.

Ten minutes later, Han Yang woke up. Helian Qing's sudden return had made his nerves a little tense, causing him to not fall asleep until it was past midnight.

_{When compared to the small village he grew up in, Han Yang thought Helian Qing's three bedroom, living room plus dining room house was already more than luxurious. But at this time, when he caught sight of the Helian's family home he knew it wasn't just more extravagant, it was too extravagant as a matter of fact.}At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.

When compared to the small village he grew up in, Han Yang thought Helian Qing's three bedroom, living room plus dining room house was already more than luxurious. But at this time, when he caught sight of the Helian's family home he knew it wasn't just more extravagant, it was too extravagant as a matter of fact.

_{Han Yang simply lowered his head and drank his tea, no longer uttering a word. Helian Qing also stopped teasing him.}
Having just woken up he was a bit confused, though it was not uncommon for him to be in a daze for a few seconds before he became completely alert. After his spirit returned, he was left stunned—speechless—at the sight of Helian Qing's hanging head staring down at him, and the fact he was currently laying on the other man’s stomach.

Han Yang simply lowered his head and drank his tea, no longer uttering a word. Helian Qing also stopped teasing him.

_{Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.}Chapter Four

Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

_{"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."}A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."

_{"I'll buy it, okay. Besides, soon it'll be them who should be giving you gifts." Helian Qing held the steering wheel, stealing glances at Han Yang who sat beside him, "Just a bit of sweet talker, huh?"}
Each of their gazes met the other's. Soon, Han Yang felt embarrassed and was at a lost as to how exactly this situation came to be.

"I'll buy it, okay. Besides, soon it'll be them who should be giving you gifts." Helian Qing held the steering wheel, stealing glances at Han Yang who sat beside him, "Just a bit of sweet talker, huh?"

_{Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.}Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.

_{Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.}...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.

Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.

_{Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.}Each of their gazes met the other's. Soon, Han Yang felt embarrassed and was at a lost as to how exactly this situation came to be.

Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.

_{"I'm sorry." Han Yang quickly got off his body. He did not know for how long Helian Qing had been awake, or if he had been sleeping like that since last night. Wouldn't he be quite tired having spent all that time holding such a posture?}
For Helian Qing, the moment he saw Han Yang rubbing his eyes he knew immediately the younger man had woken up. Having waited expectantly to observe his reaction, he found that Han Yang wore a blank expression as he looked ahead, face displaying no emotion whatsoever at their current positions and neither did he utter a word. Helian Qing also noticed that Han Yang, who began to get off the bed, unexpectedly, had stayed...

"I'm sorry." Han Yang quickly got off his body. He did not know for how long Helian Qing had been awake, or if he had been sleeping like that since last night. Wouldn't he be quite tired having spent all that time holding such a posture?

_{Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.}"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

_{His tone was neither soft nor hard. Unable to decipher what that meant, Han Yang raised his head to meet him face to face, "If I'm not calm would you let me go back?"}A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

His tone was neither soft nor hard. Unable to decipher what that meant, Han Yang raised his head to meet him face to face, "If I'm not calm would you let me go back?"

_{The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."}
The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."

_{Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.}With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still. What he did not expect was Han Yang to be, well, okay. Instead, he predicted that other would arise to treat him as a 'great scourge' before hastily retreating like always. Tch, he hasn't run away yet, huh?

Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

_{The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.}Surely it couldn't be each person lived on a floor of their own, right? Han Yang let his imagination run wild. Thinking of his family's own tiny, one-story house he couldn't help but sigh the line, 'As expected, from the diabolic nature of capitalists.'

The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

_{Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.}
"I'm sorry." Han Yang quickly got off his body. He did not know for how long Helian Qing had been awake, or if he had been sleeping like that since last night. Wouldn't he be quite tired having spent all that time holding such a posture?

Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.

_{{"..." But I don't want to.}}"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.

"..." But I don't want to.

_{Each of their gazes met the other's. Soon, Han Yang felt embarrassed and was at a lost as to how exactly this situation came to be.}
While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.

Each of their gazes met the other's. Soon, Han Yang felt embarrassed and was at a lost as to how exactly this situation came to be.

_{Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.}A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.

_{Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.}Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.

_{Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.}"..." But I don't want to.

Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

_{Everyone in the house knew of Lao Yezi's habit of heading upstairs after lunch to play chess, Helian Qing nodded in response then pulled Han Yang up the stars at once. Surely enough, on the second floor in the study, they found Lao Yezi.}
...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.

Everyone in the house knew of Lao Yezi's habit of heading upstairs after lunch to play chess, Helian Qing nodded in response then pulled Han Yang up the stars at once. Surely enough, on the second floor in the study, they found Lao Yezi.

_{"Han Yang peeked towards where Lao Yezi played chess all by his lonesome, whispering, "Is it okay that we're here?"}
With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still. What he did not expect was Han Yang to be, well, okay. Instead, he predicted that other would arise to treat him as a 'great scourge^[1]' before hastily retreating like always. Tch, he hasn't run away yet, huh?

"Han Yang peeked towards where Lao Yezi played chess all by his lonesome, whispering, "Is it okay that we're here?"

_{{Such a sharp-tongue,} Han Yang lamented in his heart.}Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.

Such a sharp-tongue, Han Yang lamented in his heart.

_{{It was impossible to respond to such a question.}}"I'll buy it, okay. Besides, soon it'll be them who should be giving you gifts." Helian Qing held the steering wheel, stealing glances at Han Yang who sat beside him, "Just a bit of sweet talker, huh?"

It was impossible to respond to such a question.

_{With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still.}Han Yang simply lowered his head and drank his tea, no longer uttering a word. Helian Qing also stopped teasing him.

With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still. What he did not expect was Han Yang to be, well, okay. Instead, he predicted that other would arise to treat him as a 'great scourge' before hastily retreating like always. Tch, he hasn't run away yet, huh?

_{Chapter Four}
Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"

Chapter Four

_{Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.}"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.

Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

_{...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.}
At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.

_{Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"}
"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab^[2] at him as usual.

Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"

_{Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.}Such a sharp-tongue, Han Yang lamented in his heart.

Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

_{"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. {He said he was going to clean off my drool.}}A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. He said he was going to clean off my drool.

_{The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.}
Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

_{A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.}
"Do you usually shower this early in the morning?^[3]" Han Yang asked absentmindedly, regretting his question as soon as the words left his lips. He looked at the man's face to see that, all too familiar, mocking expression emerge just as expected.

A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

_{"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.}
"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. He said he was going to clean off my drool.

"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

_{The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."}Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.

The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."

_{Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"}Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.

Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"

_{"Yeah," Helian Qing said to the caller, his eyes then swept towards the tight-lipped student who still had not said a word, before leisurely stating, "I'm bringing your granddaughter-in-law back with me."}
Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

"Yeah," Helian Qing said to the caller, his eyes then swept towards the tight-lipped student who still had not said a word, before leisurely stating, "I'm bringing your granddaughter-in-law back with me."

_{Unlike their first two interactions, which consisted mostly of polite alienation, after falling asleep Han Yang seemed to appear unimaginably more gentle. In that room, his features became indescribably soft. The corners of his mouth rose ever so slightly, as he dreamt of something quite amusing, he even acted like a spoiled kid, nuzzling against him a few times.}Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

Unlike their first two interactions, which consisted mostly of polite alienation, after falling asleep Han Yang seemed to appear unimaginably more gentle. In that room, his features became indescribably soft. The corners of his mouth rose ever so slightly, as he dreamt of something quite amusing, he even acted like a spoiled kid, nuzzling against him a few times.

_{"Is Lao Yezi upstairs?" Helian Qing asked.}"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.

"Is Lao Yezi upstairs?" Helian Qing asked.

_{Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.}
Such a sharp-tongue, Han Yang lamented in his heart.

Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.

_{Such a sharp-tongue, Han Yang lamented in his heart.}
At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.

Such a sharp-tongue, Han Yang lamented in his heart.

_{At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."}
Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.

At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

_{Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.}
"Yeah," Helian Qing said to the caller, his eyes then swept towards the tight-lipped student who still had not said a word, before leisurely stating, "I'm bringing your granddaughter-in-law back with me."

Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

_{Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.}Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.

_{At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."}Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.

At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

_{Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.}
Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.

Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.

_{{"..." But I don't want to.}}"..." But I don't want to.

"..." But I don't want to.

_{Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.}Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

_N/A
The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."

N/A

_{"What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.}
His tone was neither soft nor hard. Unable to decipher what that meant, Han Yang raised his head to meet him face to face, "If I'm not calm would you let me go back?"

"What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.

_{"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.}It was impossible to respond to such a question.

"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

_{The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.}Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

_{"What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.}"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab at him as usual.

"What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.

_{Surely it couldn't be each person lived on a floor of their own, right? Han Yang let his imagination run wild. Thinking of his family's own tiny, one-story house he couldn't help but sigh the line, 'As expected, from the diabolic nature of capitalists.'}
"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.

Surely it couldn't be each person lived on a floor of their own, right? Han Yang let his imagination run wild. Thinking of his family's own tiny, one-story house he couldn't help but sigh the line, 'As expected, from the diabolic nature of capitalists.'

_{Now, that dream of his younger years faded into the distance, Grandpa had become old and grey, and Pang Jiaozi, who had been at his side as he grew up, had also passed away.}
It was impossible to respond to such a question.

Now, that dream of his younger years faded into the distance, Grandpa had become old and grey, and Pang Jiaozi, who had been at his side as he grew up, had also passed away.

_{Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field.}...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.

Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

_{"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. {He said he was going to clean off my drool.}}While he sat making the tea, his waist and back were held straight, the sleeves of his shirt drew up slightly at his movements which were all natural and unforced, exuding an air of elegance and beauty. He then poured a cup of tea, handing it to Han Yang, who said thank you in return. Holding the cup in both hands, Han Yang gently took a sip, the warm liquid brought relief to his nerve-racked heart.

"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. He said he was going to clean off my drool.

_{Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.}Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

_{"Do you usually shower this early in the morning?" Han Yang asked absentmindedly, regretting his question as soon as the words left his lips. He looked at the man's face to see that, all too familiar, mocking expression emerge just as expected.}
Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.

"Do you usually shower this early in the morning?" Han Yang asked absentmindedly, regretting his question as soon as the words left his lips. He looked at the man's face to see that, all too familiar, mocking expression emerge just as expected.

_{Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"}"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

Seeing Helian Qing rubbing his shoulders, Han Yang unintentionally said, "I didn't mean to do it, are you okay?"

_{Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.}
"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.

Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

_{Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.}Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

_{While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.}
"I'll buy it, okay. Besides, soon it'll be them who should be giving you gifts." Helian Qing held the steering wheel, stealing glances at Han Yang who sat beside him, "Just a bit of sweet talker, huh?"

While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.

_{Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.}Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

_{Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.}Everyone in the house knew of Lao Yezi's habit of heading upstairs after lunch to play chess, Helian Qing nodded in response then pulled Han Yang up the stars at once. Surely enough, on the second floor in the study, they found Lao Yezi.

Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.

_{The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.}Now, that dream of his younger years faded into the distance, Grandpa had become old and grey, and Pang Jiaozi, who had been at his side as he grew up, had also passed away.

The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

_{"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.}
"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.

_{After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.}"Is Lao Yezi upstairs?" Helian Qing asked.

After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.

_{While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.}At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.

While apologising, he couldn't help but wonder about his dream, where he was clearly hugging Pang Jiaozi, and how exactly he ended up on top of Helian Qing, embracing him.

_{洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit.}Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit. severe floods and fierce beasts; fig. a great scourge/catastrophe. Basically, it defines something that is scary and dangerous or in this instance a certain Tsundere~[]不吐槽会死星人: lit. not ridiculing a dying star(alien in JPN) This one took a bit of research but from what I found it basically it means someone who normally ridicules others not ridiculing them. Translated as: not taking a jab, which is to annoy or criticize others.[]Why the shower question? Taking showers in the morning seems to not be common in Chinese culture. Bathing usually happens in the evening before bed.

_{Due to his inner biological clock, Helian Qing had already woken up long ago, yet he remained reclined on the bed, maintaining the same position. All this was because on this morning in particular, he awoke to discover the one who tried to avoid him, as well as keep a distance between them, was now deeply asleep on the pit of his stomach.}
Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

Due to his inner biological clock, Helian Qing had already woken up long ago, yet he remained reclined on the bed, maintaining the same position. All this was because on this morning in particular, he awoke to discover the one who tried to avoid him, as well as keep a distance between them, was now deeply asleep on the pit of his stomach.

_{Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.}
When compared to the small village he grew up in, Han Yang thought Helian Qing's three bedroom, living room plus dining room house was already more than luxurious. But at this time, when he caught sight of the Helian's family home he knew it wasn't just more extravagant, it was too extravagant as a matter of fact.

Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

_{"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.}His tone was neither soft nor hard. Unable to decipher what that meant, Han Yang raised his head to meet him face to face, "If I'm not calm would you let me go back?"

"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

_{"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.}Everyone in the house knew of Lao Yezi's habit of heading upstairs after lunch to play chess, Helian Qing nodded in response then pulled Han Yang up the stars at once. Surely enough, on the second floor in the study, they found Lao Yezi.

"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.

_{Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.}
The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

Stretching out his arms then rubbing his eyes, Han Yang squinted as he stared towards the blinds where the bright light shone through wearing a bewildered expression.

_{{It was impossible to respond to such a question.}}Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

It was impossible to respond to such a question.

_{Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.}Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

Han Yang, even though he did not personally know Helian Lao Yezi, he nevertheless, knew how Lao Yezi had a lot of influence in L-City's corporate sector. This old man was quite different from his own kind Grandpa, so in his heart he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous at that fact. Though he kept those feelings from showing on his face as he lowered his head and continued eating in silence.

_{Now, that dream of his younger years faded into the distance, Grandpa had become old and grey, and Pang Jiaozi, who had been at his side as he grew up, had also passed away.}Having just woken up he was a bit confused, though it was not uncommon for him to be in a daze for a few seconds before he became completely alert. After his spirit returned, he was left stunned—speechless—at the sight of Helian Qing's hanging head staring down at him, and the fact he was currently laying on the other man’s stomach.

Now, that dream of his younger years faded into the distance, Grandpa had become old and grey, and Pang Jiaozi, who had been at his side as he grew up, had also passed away.

_{Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.}
Helian Qing explained that normally, due to work, he stayed in his apartment so now only his grandfather, parents as well as their servants lived in the family home.

Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.

_{"Is Lao Yezi upstairs?" Helian Qing asked.}Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.

"Is Lao Yezi upstairs?" Helian Qing asked.

_{It was impossible to respond to such a question.}
Surely it couldn't be each person lived on a floor of their own, right? Han Yang let his imagination run wild. Thinking of his family's own tiny, one-story house he couldn't help but sigh the line, 'As expected, from the diabolic nature of capitalists.'

It was impossible to respond to such a question.

_{The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.}Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.

The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

_{Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."}
After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.

Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

_{"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. {He said he was going to clean off my drool.}}Having just woken up he was a bit confused, though it was not uncommon for him to be in a daze for a few seconds before he became completely alert. After his spirit returned, he was left stunned—speechless—at the sight of Helian Qing's hanging head staring down at him, and the fact he was currently laying on the other man’s stomach.

"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. He said he was going to clean off my drool.

_{{"..." But I don't want to.}}Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.

"..." But I don't want to.

_{Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.}At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

_{"..." But I don't want to.}
A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

"..." But I don't want to.

_{Having just woken up he was a bit confused, though it was not uncommon for him to be in a daze for a few seconds before he became completely alert. After his spirit returned, he was left stunned—speechless—at the sight of Helian Qing's hanging head staring down at him, and the fact he was currently laying on the other man’s stomach.}
Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.

Having just woken up he was a bit confused, though it was not uncommon for him to be in a daze for a few seconds before he became completely alert. After his spirit returned, he was left stunned—speechless—at the sight of Helian Qing's hanging head staring down at him, and the fact he was currently laying on the other man’s stomach.

_{Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.}
"Is Lao Yezi upstairs?" Helian Qing asked.

Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

_{Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.}"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

_{Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."} "..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab at him as usual.

Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

_{Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.}
"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.

_{{It was impossible to respond to such a question.}}The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."

It was impossible to respond to such a question.

_{Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."} "I'm sorry." Han Yang quickly got off his body. He did not know for how long Helian Qing had been awake, or if he had been sleeping like that since last night. Wouldn't he be quite tired having spent all that time holding such a posture?

Lifting the quilt, Helian Qing got off the bed, heading to his wardrobe to look for a change of clothes. Turning around, he saw Han Yang still sitting on the bed, "I'm going to take a shower, you should go tidy yourself up so we can go grab something to eat."

_{Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.}
Everyone in the house knew of Lao Yezi's habit of heading upstairs after lunch to play chess, Helian Qing nodded in response then pulled Han Yang up the stars at once. Surely enough, on the second floor in the study, they found Lao Yezi.

Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

_{At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."}...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.

At once, Helian Qing's arm stopped, immediately rubbing less in an attempt to downplay the action after catching a glimpse of Han Yang, "I never expected something like this to happen, yesterday you even kept your distance from me still."

_{"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. He said he was going to clean off my drool.}
Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

"I'm going to wash off the drool you left on my gut." Helian Qing stated before heading off to the bathroom. He said he was going to clean off my drool.

_{Unlike their first two interactions, which consisted mostly of polite alienation, after falling asleep Han Yang seemed to appear unimaginably more gentle. In that room, his features became indescribably soft. The corners of his mouth rose ever so slightly, as he dreamt of something quite amusing, he even acted like a spoiled kid, nuzzling against him a few times.}
"Grandad." Helian Qing called out to the old man playing chess. Han Yang was unsure on how to address the man, moving his lips to call to Helian Lao Yezi, he just followed after HeLian Qing then stood beside him.

Unlike their first two interactions, which consisted mostly of polite alienation, after falling asleep Han Yang seemed to appear unimaginably more gentle. In that room, his features became indescribably soft. The corners of his mouth rose ever so slightly, as he dreamt of something quite amusing, he even acted like a spoiled kid, nuzzling against him a few times.

_{"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.}"..." But I don't want to.

"What do you think?" Helian Qing asked.

_{Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.}"Don't I have to buy a gift for when I arrive?" Han Yang asked in the car, after all, it was his first time meeting them. If he brought nothing with him it would come off very impolite, however, Han Yang himself didn't know what he could buy. For a family as prominent as the Helian's, and him still being a college student who hasn't yet had a steady job, any gift he buys might seem insignificant.

Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

_{Each of their gazes met the other's. Soon, Han Yang felt embarrassed and was at a lost as to how exactly this situation came to be.}洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit. severe floods and fierce beasts; fig. a great scourge/catastrophe. Basically, it defines something that is scary and dangerous or in this instance a certain Tsundere~[]不吐槽会死星人: lit. not ridiculing a dying star(alien in JPN) This one took a bit of research but from what I found it basically it means someone who normally ridicules others not ridiculing them. Translated as: not taking a jab, which is to annoy or criticize others.[]Why the shower question? Taking showers in the morning seems to not be common in Chinese culture. Bathing usually happens in the evening before bed.

Each of their gazes met the other's. Soon, Han Yang felt embarrassed and was at a lost as to how exactly this situation came to be.

_{The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.}
Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.

The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

_{"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.}...not only that, but also about how that man's bad temperament wouldn't be as good Jiaozi's.

"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

_{Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.}"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."

Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

_{The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.}The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

_{Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.}
Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.

_{Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field.}"I'll buy it, okay. Besides, soon it'll be them who should be giving you gifts." Helian Qing held the steering wheel, stealing glances at Han Yang who sat beside him, "Just a bit of sweet talker, huh?"

Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

_{Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.}Han Yang simply lowered his head and drank his tea, no longer uttering a word. Helian Qing also stopped teasing him.

Han Yang's chopsticks stopped in an instant, his expression frozen.

_{The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.}Surely it couldn't be each person lived on a floor of their own, right? Han Yang let his imagination run wild. Thinking of his family's own tiny, one-story house he couldn't help but sigh the line, 'As expected, from the diabolic nature of capitalists.'

The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

_{洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit.}
While he sat making the tea, his waist and back were held straight, the sleeves of his shirt drew up slightly at his movements which were all natural and unforced, exuding an air of elegance and beauty. He then poured a cup of tea, handing it to Han Yang, who said thank you in return. Holding the cup in both hands, Han Yang gently took a sip, the warm liquid brought relief to his nerve-racked heart.

洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit. severe floods and fierce beasts; fig. a great scourge/catastrophe. Basically, it defines something that is scary and dangerous or in this instance a certain Tsundere~[]不吐槽会死星人: lit. not ridiculing a dying star(alien in JPN) This one took a bit of research but from what I found it basically it means someone who normally ridicules others not ridiculing them. Translated as: not taking a jab, which is to annoy or criticize others.[]Why the shower question? Taking showers in the morning seems to not be common in Chinese culture. Bathing usually happens in the evening before bed.

_{The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.}Light from the morning sun trickled through the tiny slits of the blinds covering the bedroom's French windows. The bright specs shone as they lit up the floorboards.

The four-storey medium-sized villa was not that tall, but it did spread to cover a wide area. When coming through the entrance one was immediately greeted by a huge courtyard about the size of a football field, in addition, beside it was a garden, a pond, and so on.

_{Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field.}
"What are you so nervous about?" Helian Qing glanced at him.

Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

_N/A "Do you usually shower this early in the morning?" Han Yang asked absentmindedly, regretting his question as soon as the words left his lips. He looked at the man's face to see that, all too familiar, mocking expression emerge just as expected.

N/A

_{Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.}Immediately after the door was closed, Han Yang wiped the corners of his mouth only to realise they were in fact, dry.

Helian Qing seemed accustomed to the old man's habit, disturbing him no more. He instead took Han Yang to sit beside him at a tea table and began steeping some tea.

_{When compared to the small village he grew up in, Han Yang thought Helian Qing's three bedroom, living room plus dining room house was already more than luxurious. But at this time, when he caught sight of the Helian's family home he knew it wasn't just more extravagant, it was too extravagant as a matter of fact.}
"Han Yang peeked towards where Lao Yezi played chess all by his lonesome, whispering, "Is it okay that we're here?"

When compared to the small village he grew up in, Han Yang thought Helian Qing's three bedroom, living room plus dining room house was already more than luxurious. But at this time, when he caught sight of the Helian's family home he knew it wasn't just more extravagant, it was too extravagant as a matter of fact.

_{Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.}Helian Qing scoffed and grinned, not saying anything further.

Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.

_{While he sat making the tea, his waist and back were held straight, the sleeves of his shirt drew up slightly at his movements which were all natural and unforced, exuding an air of elegance and beauty. He then poured a cup of tea, handing it to Han Yang, who said thank you in return.}The Han Yang staring at him blankly was awfully cute, Helian Qing thought to himself.

While he sat making the tea, his waist and back were held straight, the sleeves of his shirt drew up slightly at his movements which were all natural and unforced, exuding an air of elegance and beauty. He then poured a cup of tea, handing it to Han Yang, who said thank you in return. Holding the cup in both hands, Han Yang gently took a sip, the warm liquid brought relief to his nerve-racked heart.

_{His tone was neither soft nor hard. Unable to decipher what that meant, Han Yang raised his head to meet him face to face, "If I'm not calm would you let me go back?"}
"It's not a problem, Lao Yezi just doesn't like to be disturbed while he's playing chess." Helian Qing drank some tea, "Besides, after coming back for a few visits you'll get used to it."

His tone was neither soft nor hard. Unable to decipher what that meant, Han Yang raised his head to meet him face to face, "If I'm not calm would you let me go back?"

_{Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field.}Laying eyes on Lao Yezi, Han Yang's originally slightly relaxed nerves became a tad tense yet again. Before him was Helian Qing's grandfather, a man who was once a top-ranking leader in the business world. Compared to his own grandfather who sat in the yard and played with children, this man completely different.

Last night, he had a dream. He dreamt about his childhood, about his old house and his huge dog, Pang JiaoziT/n: 胖饺子: Plump/Fat Dumpling :), playing in an open field. At that time, he was just eight years old so when Pang Jiaozi stood up, it was almost as tall as him. Back then when he played with Pang Jiaozi, it would often use its head to gently brush against him, coaxing him. He in turn, would chase Pang Jiaozi around the field until his grandpa came calling for him to return home for his meal.

_{A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.}At noon during lunch, Helian Qing received a phone-call, addressing the caller as, Helian Lao YeziT/n: Lao Yezi is a respectful way of addressing an elderly male., as in, Helian Qing's Grandfather.

A bit later, having already entered the house, only a few servants were around and neither Helian Qing's father nor mother were at home. Seeing Helian Qing's arrival they respectfully welcomed him, adding no unnecessary small talk which made that extremely huge room appear cold.

_{"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.}After parking the car in the courtyard, Helian Qing took out a few bags of gifts, handing them to a servant waiting nearby then brought Han Yang into the house.

"Lao Yezi finished his meal then headed to his study soon after." The servant respectfully replied.

_{"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab at him as usual.}
"..." But I don't want to.

"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab at him as usual.

_{Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.}"..." Han Yang's face deadpanned.

Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.

_{"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not {taking a jab} at him as usual.}Lao Yezi groaned an 'mn' in response, still not lifting his head to look at them, gaze just as it was before set on his chessboard, contemplating his next move.

"..." Han Yang had no words, at his discovery of Helian Qing not taking a jab at him as usual.

_{Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.}
Han Yang simply lowered his head and drank his tea, no longer uttering a word. Helian Qing also stopped teasing him.

Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.

_{Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.}Everyone in the house knew of Lao Yezi's habit of heading upstairs after lunch to play chess, Helian Qing nodded in response then pulled Han Yang up the stars at once. Surely enough, on the second floor in the study, they found Lao Yezi.

Helian Qing was quite surprised by this, looking at him with interest as he awaited the sort of expression the other would have because of their unexpected positioning.

_{Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.}The corners of Helian Qing's lips rose a smidge as he added a few more sentences before hanging up his phone. Placing the device down beside him, he glanced at Han Yang, "Contrary to what I'd expect, you seem rather calm."

Han Yang already knew from what he witnessed last night and of what Helian Qing said, he wouldn't be able to back out of this occasion. Also, what Helian Qing had said earlier was actually wrong, it was not that he wasn't nervous, just that there was nothing to be done about it even if he was, except for taking things one step at a time.

_{With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still.}Compared to this, Han Yang preferred his family's bungalow, even though it was small and old, it had warmth, comfort, and joy.

With his newfound freedom, Helian Qing massaged his stiffened shoulder. To allow that just awakened one sleep comfortably, he had kept his arm quite still. What he did not expect was Han Yang to be, well, okay. Instead, he predicted that other would arise to treat him as a 'great scourge' before hastily retreating like always. Tch, he hasn't run away yet, huh?

---

Author's Note:

N/A

Notes:

^1.洪水猛兽: hóng shuǐ měng shòu: idiom - lit. severe floods and fierce beasts; fig. a great scourge/catastrophe. Basically, it defines something that is scary and dangerous or in this instance a certain Tsundere~

^2.不吐槽会死星人: lit. not ridiculing a dying star(alien in JPN) This one took a bit of research but from what I found it basically it means someone who normally ridicules others not ridiculing them. Translated as: not taking a jab, which is to annoy or criticize others.

^3.Why the shower question? Taking showers in the morning seems to not be common in Chinese culture. Bathing usually happens in the evening before bed. (A special thank you to the lovely readers that helped give context for this one)

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