CM: C07

Chapter: 7 | Chapter Seven

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Chapter Seven

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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￣)

_{Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both.}
The next day, Han Yang found himself within Helian Qing's embrace. He could feel the larger man's expired breath against his nape, the warm exhalation slightly tickled as it struck his skin, making his body stiffen while a rosy tint stained his ears.

Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both. He just assumed the younger man would return to their room to change his clothes and had never considered such an idea was all simply his own wishful thinking. During those two weeks, Han Yang had kept his stuff just as they were when he first arrived, neatly packed within his suitcase, as if at any moment he was ready to leave.

_{"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"} With everyone encouraging him to order, Han Yang accepted their wishes, ordering himself a couple dishes.

"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"

_{On his way up to their flat, he could not help but wonder what sort of dish Han Yang would be making that night. Although they had both spent the last week not saying much to each other, when they ate together however, it felt quite good. Even though Han Yang's culinary skills could not be compared to his family's chef, generally speaking, the boy's dishes did leave one very satisfied overall.}
Too close...

On his way up to their flat, he could not help but wonder what sort of dish Han Yang would be making that night. Although they had both spent the last week not saying much to each other, when they ate together however, it felt quite good. Even though Han Yang's culinary skills could not be compared to his family's chef, generally speaking, the boy's dishes did leave one very satisfied overall.

_{Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.}When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.

Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.

_{However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.}
This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

_{At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.}Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.

_{"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."}It was certain a few of the larger guys would eat a lot of meat as everyone placed their orders, Han Yang on the other hand, was preoccupied with staring at his phone. One of his roommates who sat beside him used his elbow to nudge him then asked, "What's wrong? Is everything alright?"

"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."

_{{Kids are just so difficult to please.}}With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.

Kids are just so difficult to please.

_{When all their glasses clinked, within Han Yang's mind an image of Helian Qing's face flashed before his eyes. A dazzling beauty, he wouldn't go to such an extent to describe him, but that man was definitely handsome. As far as being soft and gentle though, that was just impossible, that man's mouth could poison a corpse.}
Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.

When all their glasses clinked, within Han Yang's mind an image of Helian Qing's face flashed before his eyes. A dazzling beauty, he wouldn't go to such an extent to describe him, but that man was definitely handsome. As far as being soft and gentle though, that was just impossible, that man's mouth could poison a corpse.

_{Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.}
Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.

Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.

_{Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.}For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.

_{{Could it be Helian Qing?}}When all their glasses clinked, within Han Yang's mind an image of Helian Qing's face flashed before his eyes. A dazzling beauty, he wouldn't go to such an extent to describe him, but that man was definitely handsome. As far as being soft and gentle though, that was just impossible, that man's mouth could poison a corpse.

Could it be Helian Qing?

_{While he ate, Han Yang—once again—could not help but think about Helian Qing.}
Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...

While he ate, Han Yang—once again—could not help but think about Helian Qing.

_{He would just try coaxing him.}After completing his order, he once again, turned his attention towards his phone. He noticed from since he sent Helian Qing the message until now, more than four hours had passed, and he had still not received a reply.

He would just try coaxing him.

_{When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.}
He would just try coaxing him.

When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.

_{"Ah-choo——"}When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.

"Ah-choo——"

_{With Helian Qing? Impossible!}
Kids are just so difficult to please.

With Helian Qing? Impossible!

_{The younger man's timing was very accurate, so normally at this time he would already be preparing to cook, Helian Qing always returned just as he was about to serve the meal. However, at this moment the living room was vacant, the kitchen was completely clean, and the counter top did not have any dishes, neither fruits, nor even a drop of water.}
Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.

The younger man's timing was very accurate, so normally at this time he would already be preparing to cook, Helian Qing always returned just as he was about to serve the meal. However, at this moment the living room was vacant, the kitchen was completely clean, and the counter top did not have any dishes, neither fruits, nor even a drop of water.

_{Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him.}
For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

_{"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.}It was certain a few of the larger guys would eat a lot of meat as everyone placed their orders, Han Yang on the other hand, was preoccupied with staring at his phone. One of his roommates who sat beside him used his elbow to nudge him then asked, "What's wrong? Is everything alright?"

"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

_{Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.}Helian Qing then remembered, when he came, he did not see that boy's shoes by the doorway either. He then went into the bedroom, where he saw there was also no one there.

Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.

_{Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...}
However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...

_{"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"} The next day, Han Yang found himself within Helian Qing's embrace. He could feel the larger man's expired breath against his nape, the warm exhalation slightly tickled as it struck his skin, making his body stiffen while a rosy tint stained his ears.

"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"

_{Helian Qing was utterly unaware of Han Yang's plans. For the entire day he had chaired a meeting and as soon everything was completed, he had already hurriedly left work.}Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

Helian Qing was utterly unaware of Han Yang's plans. For the entire day he had chaired a meeting and as soon everything was completed, he had already hurriedly left work.

_{Him leaving work in such a flash showed how much he wanted to get back home to eat the meal his wife prepared. Thinking about that place, he took out his house keys cheerfully.}
Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

Him leaving work in such a flash showed how much he wanted to get back home to eat the meal his wife prepared. Thinking about that place, he took out his house keys cheerfully.

_{Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.}Helian Qing then remembered, when he came, he did not see that boy's shoes by the doorway either. He then went into the bedroom, where he saw there was also no one there.

Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.

_{Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same {dead-fish-face} the boy wore the day before and if so, then...}For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...

_{However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.}With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.

However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

_{For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.}
Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.

For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.

_{He would just try coaxing him.}Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.

He would just try coaxing him.

_{Chapter Seven}From then on, the interactions between the two maintained such a state of unease. At daytime it was tolerable, as one man went to work, while the other went to class, greatly reducing their chances of meeting one another. The crux of the matter, therefore, was at night-time.

Chapter Seven

_{With everyone encouraging him to order, Han Yang accepted their wishes, ordering himself a couple dishes.}
Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both. He just assumed the younger man would return to their room to change his clothes and had never considered such an idea was all simply his own wishful thinking. During those two weeks, Han Yang had kept his stuff just as they were when he first arrived, neatly packed within his suitcase, as if at any moment he was ready to leave.

With everyone encouraging him to order, Han Yang accepted their wishes, ordering himself a couple dishes.

_N/A
With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.

N/A

_{Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.}"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.

Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.

_{"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"}
"Ah-choo——"

"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"

_{{Too close...}}Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.

Too close...

_{His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—}A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

_{"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.}
At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.

"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

_◈◇◈"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."

◈◇◈

_{Could it be Helian Qing?}
Could it be Helian Qing?

Could it be Helian Qing?

_{Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.}When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.

Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

_{When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.}This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.

_{Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.}
...This feels like a bad omen. Han Yang quietly thought.

Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.

_◈◇◈Han Yang wanted to clarify, but no one gave him a chance as they all began conversing while the wine was poured, raising their glasses to toast.

◈◇◈

_{"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"} Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.

"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"

_◈◇◈
When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.

◈◇◈

_{"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.}Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both. He just assumed the younger man would return to their room to change his clothes and had never considered such an idea was all simply his own wishful thinking. During those two weeks, Han Yang had kept his stuff just as they were when he first arrived, neatly packed within his suitcase, as if at any moment he was ready to leave.

"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

_{For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.}A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.

_{{Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or...} He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.}"Come, come on everyone! In celebration of our A-Yang's passions being ignited, let's have a toast."

Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

_{Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.}
From then on, the interactions between the two maintained such a state of unease. At daytime it was tolerable, as one man went to work, while the other went to class, greatly reducing their chances of meeting one another. The crux of the matter, therefore, was at night-time.

Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

_{"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.}"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"

"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

_{Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.}Him leaving work in such a flash showed how much he wanted to get back home to eat the meal his wife prepared. Thinking about that place, he took out his house keys cheerfully.

Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.

_{...This feels like a bad omen. Han Yang quietly thought.}
What surprised Han Yang was Helian Qing return for dinner—every single night. Despite the unspoken agreement between them to preserve the silence during their meals, what few conversations they did have were quite pitiful.

...This feels like a bad omen. Han Yang quietly thought.

_{For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.}When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.

For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

_{With Helian Qing? Impossible!}A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

With Helian Qing? Impossible!

_{During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.}
Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.

During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

_{And as for falling in love...}Too close...

And as for falling in love...

_{Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.}
Things continued in such a manner until the Friday that followed, when Han Yang had gone out to dinner with his former roommates.

Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.

_{Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him.}"Huh?" Han Yang replied, "I'm fine, you guys can just order."

Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

_N/A "Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"

N/A

_{"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.}
Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.

_{And as for falling in love...}"Huh?" Han Yang replied, "I'm fine, you guys can just order."

And as for falling in love...

_{What surprised Han Yang was Helian Qing return for dinner—every single night. Despite the unspoken agreement between them to preserve the silence during their meals, what few conversations they did have were quite pitiful.}"Come, come on everyone! In celebration of our A-Yang's passions being ignited, let's have a toast."

What surprised Han Yang was Helian Qing return for dinner—every single night. Despite the unspoken agreement between them to preserve the silence during their meals, what few conversations they did have were quite pitiful.

_{Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him.}During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

_{Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.}
When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.

Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.

_{"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"}
During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"

_{{...This feels like a bad omen}. Han Yang quietly thought.}During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

...This feels like a bad omen. Han Yang quietly thought.

_{Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."}
The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

_{The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.}When all their glasses clinked, within Han Yang's mind an image of Helian Qing's face flashed before his eyes. A dazzling beauty, he wouldn't go to such an extent to describe him, but that man was definitely handsome. As far as being soft and gentle though, that was just impossible, that man's mouth could poison a corpse.

The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

_{{Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or...} He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.}◈◇◈

Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

_{The next day, Han Yang found himself within Helian Qing's embrace. He could feel the larger man's expired breath against his nape, the warm exhalation slightly tickled as it struck his skin, making his body stiffen while a rosy tint stained his ears.}
It was certain a few of the larger guys would eat a lot of meat as everyone placed their orders, Han Yang on the other hand, was preoccupied with staring at his phone. One of his roommates who sat beside him used his elbow to nudge him then asked, "What's wrong? Is everything alright?"

The next day, Han Yang found himself within Helian Qing's embrace. He could feel the larger man's expired breath against his nape, the warm exhalation slightly tickled as it struck his skin, making his body stiffen while a rosy tint stained his ears.

_{Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.}Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.

_N/A Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.

N/A

_{He's probably still mad. Han Yang thought. To Helian Qing, perhaps he looked like someone who did not appreciate favours. Considering how well off the Helian family were, and how many people wanted to but could not climb up the social ladder, yet here he was, unable to tell chalk from cheese , what kind of person would not get angry!}
"Huh?" Han Yang replied, "I'm fine, you guys can just order."

He's probably still mad. Han Yang thought. To Helian Qing, perhaps he looked like someone who did not appreciate favours. Considering how well off the Helian family were, and how many people wanted to but could not climb up the social ladder, yet here he was, unable to tell chalk from cheese , what kind of person would not get angry!

_{"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"} Not only was that man ill-tempered, but he was also quite picky with his food. Today without him there to prepare his meals, he did not know what that picky one would end up eating.

"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"

_{{Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or...} He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.}For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.

Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

_{With everyone encouraging him to order, Han Yang accepted their wishes, ordering himself a couple dishes.}Kids are just so difficult to please.

With everyone encouraging him to order, Han Yang accepted their wishes, ordering himself a couple dishes.

_{From then on, the interactions between the two maintained such a state of unease. At daytime it was tolerable, as one man went to work, while the other went to class, greatly reducing their chances of meeting one another. The crux of the matter, therefore, was at night-time.}
"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.

From then on, the interactions between the two maintained such a state of unease. At daytime it was tolerable, as one man went to work, while the other went to class, greatly reducing their chances of meeting one another. The crux of the matter, therefore, was at night-time.

_{{This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.}}He would just try coaxing him.

This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

_"No..."
"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."

"No..."

_{His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—}At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.

His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

_{Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.}At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.

Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.

_{"Hurry, fill them up!"}Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

"Hurry, fill them up!"

_{"Ah-choo——"}
"Come on hurry up, order whatever you want to eat."

"Ah-choo——"

_{"Raise your glasses!"}
With everyone encouraging him to order, Han Yang accepted their wishes, ordering himself a couple dishes.

"Raise your glasses!"

_{Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.}"Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.

Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.

_{Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.}"Come on hurry up, order whatever you want to eat."

Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.

_{During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.}"No..."

During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

_{Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.}
After completing his order, he once again, turned his attention towards his phone. He noticed from since he sent Helian Qing the message until now, more than four hours had passed, and he had still not received a reply.

Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.

_{Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."}Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.

Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

_{Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.}
He's probably still mad. Han Yang thought. To Helian Qing, perhaps he looked like someone who did not appreciate favours. Considering how well off the Helian family were, and how many people wanted to but could not climb up the social ladder, yet here he was, unable to tell chalk from cheese ^[1], what kind of person would not get angry!

Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.

_{"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.}Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.

_{{Could it be Helian Qing?}}Could it be Helian Qing?

Could it be Helian Qing?

_{Helian Qing then remembered, when he came, he did not see that boy's shoes by the doorway either. He then went into the bedroom, where he saw there was also no one there.}
While he ate, Han Yang—once again—could not help but think about Helian Qing.

Helian Qing then remembered, when he came, he did not see that boy's shoes by the doorway either. He then went into the bedroom, where he saw there was also no one there.

_{For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.}
Not only was that man ill-tempered, but he was also quite picky with his food. Today without him there to prepare his meals, he did not know what that picky one would end up eating.

For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

_{Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.}Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

_{"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.}"Ah-choo——"

"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.

_{When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.}Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.

When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.

_{With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.}
"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.

_{A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.}Han Yang soon found himself wondering whether the other man was truly upset, but due to the man's consistent return each day for supper, it did not seem as if he was, which made Han Yang quite confused.

A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

_{This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.}
Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

_{{This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.}}His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

_{"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."}When he moved out of the dorm, everyone was unprepared for it, they did not even have enough time to all meet up properly. So, the aforementioned Friday was the most convenient, as they all had free time to get together for a decent meal.

"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."

_{{Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or...} He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.}"Raise your glasses!"

Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

_{Kids are just so difficult to please.}
"Oh!" Han Yang's buddy to the left of him instantly became interested, "Normally we don't see you like this, and today we got to see it twice? If I had to guess, it's definitely not about studying. You study so well that you don't have to worry about it."

Kids are just so difficult to please.

_{Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him.}Helian Qing was utterly unaware of Han Yang's plans. For the entire day he had chaired a meeting and as soon everything was completed, he had already hurriedly left work.

Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

_{His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—}The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

_{Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.}
"Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.

Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.

_{After completing his order, he once again, turned his attention towards his phone. He noticed from since he sent Helian Qing the message until now, more than four hours had passed, and he had still not received a reply.} Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

After completing his order, he once again, turned his attention towards his phone. He noticed from since he sent Helian Qing the message until now, more than four hours had passed, and he had still not received a reply.

_{Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both.}"Come on hurry up, order whatever you want to eat."

Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both. He just assumed the younger man would return to their room to change his clothes and had never considered such an idea was all simply his own wishful thinking. During those two weeks, Han Yang had kept his stuff just as they were when he first arrived, neatly packed within his suitcase, as if at any moment he was ready to leave.

_{When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.}
"No..."

When he returned to the apartment later that day, contrary to his expectations, Helian Qing had said nothing. The man had even gone to bed earlier than him.

_{Things continued in such a manner until the Friday that followed, when Han Yang had gone out to dinner with his former roommates.}
"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"

Things continued in such a manner until the Friday that followed, when Han Yang had gone out to dinner with his former roommates.

_{With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.}This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

With his gaze fixed on the grey suitcase beside his feet, Helian Qing's lips pursed together just a little, with the look on his face not faring any better.

_{"Come, come on everyone! In celebration of our A-Yang's passions being ignited, let's have a toast."}
"Absolutely, sister-in-law must definitely be a dazzling beauty, who's soft and gentle!"^[2]

"Come, come on everyone! In celebration of our A-Yang's passions being ignited, let's have a toast."

_{A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.}
"Come, come on everyone! In celebration of our A-Yang's passions being ignited^[3], let's have a toast."

A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

_{Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.}◈◇◈

Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.

_{However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.}Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.

However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

_{Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.}
"Hurry, fill them up!"

Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

_{{Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or...} He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.}Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

Could he have worn his pyjamas to class? Or... He thought at once. It looked as if he suddenly recalled something, so he headed towards the guest room. Just as he had expected, he saw Han Yang's small suitcase sitting in there on the floor.

_{"Come on hurry up, order whatever you want to eat."}
"Raise your glasses!"

"Come on hurry up, order whatever you want to eat."

_{However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.}Chapter Seven

However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

_{Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.}And as for falling in love...

Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.

_{{Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.}}During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.

_{Not only was that man ill-tempered, but he was also quite picky with his food. Today without him there to prepare his meals, he did not know what that picky one would end up eating.}
Han Yang wanted to clarify, but no one gave him a chance as they all began conversing while the wine was poured, raising their glasses to toast.

Not only was that man ill-tempered, but he was also quite picky with his food. Today without him there to prepare his meals, he did not know what that picky one would end up eating.

_{{Kids are just so difficult to please.}}"Oh!" Han Yang's buddy to the left of him instantly became interested, "Normally we don't see you like this, and today we got to see it twice? If I had to guess, it's definitely not about studying. You study so well that you don't have to worry about it."

Kids are just so difficult to please.

_{However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.}On his way up to their flat, he could not help but wonder what sort of dish Han Yang would be making that night. Although they had both spent the last week not saying much to each other, when they ate together however, it felt quite good. Even though Han Yang's culinary skills could not be compared to his family's chef, generally speaking, the boy's dishes did leave one very satisfied overall.

However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

_{Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.}"Hurry, fill them up!"

Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.

_{"Oh!" Han Yang's buddy to the left of him instantly became interested, "Normally we don't see you like this, and today we got to see it twice? If I had to guess, it's definitely not about studying. You study so well that you don't have to worry about it."}
When all their glasses clinked, within Han Yang's mind an image of Helian Qing's face flashed before his eyes. A dazzling beauty, he wouldn't go to such an extent to describe him, but that man was definitely handsome. As far as being soft and gentle though, that was just impossible, that man's mouth could poison a corpse.

"Oh!" Han Yang's buddy to the left of him instantly became interested, "Normally we don't see you like this, and today we got to see it twice? If I had to guess, it's definitely not about studying. You study so well that you don't have to worry about it."

_{{This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.}}Could it be Helian Qing?

This kind of distance was too scary—too dangerous.

_{From then on, the interactions between the two maintained such a state of unease. At daytime it was tolerable, as one man went to work, while the other went to class, greatly reducing their chances of meeting one another. The crux of the matter, therefore, was at night-time.}Still rigid, Han Yang waited for about a minute to make sure Helian Qing had not yet awakened. Carefully, he took the encircling arm from his waist, then stealthily snuck off the bed.

From then on, the interactions between the two maintained such a state of unease. At daytime it was tolerable, as one man went to work, while the other went to class, greatly reducing their chances of meeting one another. The crux of the matter, therefore, was at night-time.

_{The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.}The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

_{"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."}
And as for falling in love...

"That's right, don't say your big bros never took care of you."

_{Chapter Seven}
With Helian Qing? Impossible!

Chapter Seven

_{"Raise your glasses!"}Realising once more his mind was wondering, Han Yang promptly responded, "I'm alright, I was just thinking about something, that's all."

"Raise your glasses!"

_{However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.}Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.

However, in that house, apart from him, there was no sign of the other person at all. There were drops of water sprinkled on top of the sink, proving Han Yang had indeed just used it, but it seemed like he had already left.

_{What surprised Han Yang was Helian Qing return for dinner—every single night. Despite the unspoken agreement between them to preserve the silence during their meals, what few conversations they did have were quite pitiful.}
Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.

What surprised Han Yang was Helian Qing return for dinner—every single night. Despite the unspoken agreement between them to preserve the silence during their meals, what few conversations they did have were quite pitiful.

_{It was certain a few of the larger guys would eat a lot of meat as everyone placed their orders, Han Yang on the other hand, was preoccupied with staring at his phone. One of his roommates who sat beside him used his elbow to nudge him then asked, "What's wrong? Is everything alright?"}
Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.

It was certain a few of the larger guys would eat a lot of meat as everyone placed their orders, Han Yang on the other hand, was preoccupied with staring at his phone. One of his roommates who sat beside him used his elbow to nudge him then asked, "What's wrong? Is everything alright?"

_{"Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.}
Well, no matter what happens next, first I'll eat then say what needs to be said later.

"Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.

_{For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.}Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both. He just assumed the younger man would return to their room to change his clothes and had never considered such an idea was all simply his own wishful thinking. During those two weeks, Han Yang had kept his stuff just as they were when he first arrived, neatly packed within his suitcase, as if at any moment he was ready to leave.

For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

_{At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.}Could it be Helian Qing?

At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.

_{Him leaving work in such a flash showed how much he wanted to get back home to eat the meal his wife prepared. Thinking about that place, he took out his house keys cheerfully.}The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

Him leaving work in such a flash showed how much he wanted to get back home to eat the meal his wife prepared. Thinking about that place, he took out his house keys cheerfully.

_{Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.}

◈◇◈

Han Yang trembled suddenly just by having his mind filled with the possibility of Helian Qing's venomous lips declaring anything close to those words. It was more likely for him to say "Falling in love? You? Are you soft in the head?" or something similar.

_{"Hurry, fill them up!"}
Helian Qing was utterly unaware of Han Yang's plans. For the entire day he had chaired a meeting and as soon everything was completed, he had already hurriedly left work.

"Hurry, fill them up!"

_{During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.}Even though Han Yang possessed the type of personality that was relatively indifferent, the time he had spent living in the dormitory with his roommates was actually pretty good. Being as studious as he was, whenever there was an upcoming exam, he had helped his fellow bunkmates a lot, therefore none of them would have wished to part with him. Additionally, because of his childhood spent growing up in a village, he was well-accustomed to doing household chores and so most of the time, he took the lead in maintaining the dorm's cleanliness. A good student, a fondness towards cleaning, and innate charm, it was only natural that after witnessing him do so much the others became a bit embarrassed and thus joined him in doing the chores too. After two years in that college, their room's hygiene became the ideal model of a boy's dorm room.

During his afternoon class Han Yang took out his phone, his eyes stuck on the screen as he was lost in his thoughts, trying to figure out how he would tell Helian Qing he could not return for dinner. Considering how awkward the current situation between them was, he had no clue how to even begin explaining if he called the man, so he simply sent him a message instead.

_{For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.}When all their glasses clinked, within Han Yang's mind an image of Helian Qing's face flashed before his eyes. A dazzling beauty, he wouldn't go to such an extent to describe him, but that man was definitely handsome. As far as being soft and gentle though, that was just impossible, that man's mouth could poison a corpse.

For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.

_{"Huh?" Han Yang replied, "I'm fine, you guys can just order."}
Him leaving work in such a flash showed how much he wanted to get back home to eat the meal his wife prepared. Thinking about that place, he took out his house keys cheerfully.

"Huh?" Han Yang replied, "I'm fine, you guys can just order."

_{Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.}While he ate, Han Yang—once again—could not help but think about Helian Qing.

Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

_N/A "Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.

N/A

_◈◇◈His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

◈◇◈

_{The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.}
On his way up to their flat, he could not help but wonder what sort of dish Han Yang would be making that night. Although they had both spent the last week not saying much to each other, when they ate together however, it felt quite good. Even though Han Yang's culinary skills could not be compared to his family's chef, generally speaking, the boy's dishes did leave one very satisfied overall.

The group decided to have their dinner at a hot-pot restaurant. The eatery was located right beside the school, its ambiance as well as its food were both pretty good, since he had visited that place before several times with everyone when he lived in the dormitory.

_{Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.}Could it be Helian Qing?

Thinking of it like that, Han Yang suddenly felt a bit ridiculous and that stifling feeling he had since he arrived suddenly dissipated.

_{"Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.}Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.

"Is it possible that... it's about a love interest?" Shezhang asked.

_{Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.}"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

Next, for a while, he closely observed the man who still laid resting on the bed. Certain that said man had not been roused by his movements, a relieved sigh left his lips before he exited the bedroom to wash up. Absent-minded, he closed the door behind him and thus that man lying on the bed, opened his eyes.

_{His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—}
Helian Qing darted into the apartment, but he did not see Han Yang in the kitchen as he usually was.

His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

_{Helian Qing was utterly unaware of Han Yang's plans. For the entire day he had chaired a meeting and as soon everything was completed, he had already hurriedly left work.}
The younger man's timing was very accurate, so normally at this time he would already be preparing to cook, Helian Qing always returned just as he was about to serve the meal. However, at this moment the living room was vacant, the kitchen was completely clean, and the counter top did not have any dishes, neither fruits, nor even a drop of water.

Helian Qing was utterly unaware of Han Yang's plans. For the entire day he had chaired a meeting and as soon everything was completed, he had already hurriedly left work.

_{{...This feels like a bad omen}. Han Yang quietly thought.}He's probably still mad. Han Yang thought. To Helian Qing, perhaps he looked like someone who did not appreciate favours. Considering how well off the Helian family were, and how many people wanted to but could not climb up the social ladder, yet here he was, unable to tell chalk from cheese , what kind of person would not get angry!

...This feels like a bad omen. Han Yang quietly thought.

_{After completing his order, he once again, turned his attention towards his phone. He noticed from since he sent Helian Qing the message until now, more than four hours had passed, and he had still not received a reply.}
Helian Qing then remembered, when he came, he did not see that boy's shoes by the doorway either. He then went into the bedroom, where he saw there was also no one there.

After completing his order, he once again, turned his attention towards his phone. He noticed from since he sent Helian Qing the message until now, more than four hours had passed, and he had still not received a reply.

_{For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.}Han Yang wanted to clarify, but no one gave him a chance as they all began conversing while the wine was poured, raising their glasses to toast.

For about five minutes he sat there, waiting, yet Han Yang still had not returned. No longer interested in reading the news, he got off the bed in search of the younger man.

_{Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both.}Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...

Contemplating the matter made his face darken. It was his belief he and that boy were together, therefore the master bedroom rightly belonged to them both. He just assumed the younger man would return to their room to change his clothes and had never considered such an idea was all simply his own wishful thinking. During those two weeks, Han Yang had kept his stuff just as they were when he first arrived, neatly packed within his suitcase, as if at any moment he was ready to leave.

_{Han Yang wanted to clarify, but no one gave him a chance as they all began conversing while the wine was poured, raising their glasses to toast.}
Han Yang did not return and on his phone, there were not any missed calls or messages.

Han Yang wanted to clarify, but no one gave him a chance as they all began conversing while the wine was poured, raising their glasses to toast.

_{Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same {dead-fish-face} the boy wore the day before and if so, then...}"This is great!" A guy slapped the table, "You should find the time to take that girl of yours out for a meal, alright!"

Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...

_{On his way up to their flat, he could not help but wonder what sort of dish Han Yang would be making that night. Although they had both spent the last week not saying much to each other, when they ate together however, it felt quite good. Even though Han Yang's culinary skills could not be compared to his family's chef, generally speaking, the boy's dishes did leave one very satisfied overall.}Helian Qing propped himself up, leaning against the headboard as he sat on the bed, waiting for Han Yang to finish washing his face then return. He was curious as to what sort of reaction the smaller man would have after last night's incident, whether it would be the same dead-fish-face the boy wore the day before and if so, then...

On his way up to their flat, he could not help but wonder what sort of dish Han Yang would be making that night. Although they had both spent the last week not saying much to each other, when they ate together however, it felt quite good. Even though Han Yang's culinary skills could not be compared to his family's chef, generally speaking, the boy's dishes did leave one very satisfied overall.

_{A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.}Too close...

A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

_{At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.}
For a while, the expression on Helian Qing's face was indecipherable. After hastily getting off work, hurrying back to have a meal, his mood abruptly deflated like a balloon. Soon after, within his throat the anger fermented, and at any given moment would probably erupt.

At that exact moment, riding on a bus, Han Yang sneezed, rubbing the goosebumps on his arms as he felt his back burst out in a chill.

_{He would just try coaxing him.}
His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

He would just try coaxing him.

_{{Could it be Helian Qing?}}"Hey, you should eat more meat, just look at those little chicken legs of yours, they're smaller than that guy's arm." ShezhangT/n: 舍长: shè zhǎng: dorm leader/elder. jested as he handed Han Yang a menu.

Could it be Helian Qing?

_{Things continued in such a manner until the Friday that followed, when Han Yang had gone out to dinner with his former roommates.}His finger paused over Han Yang's name on the screen, hovering there for a while, before immediately sliding open—

Things continued in such a manner until the Friday that followed, when Han Yang had gone out to dinner with his former roommates.

_{Too close...}
A name was dialled. After agreeing to meet at that place, he walked out the door.

Too close...

_{{He's probably still mad}. Han Yang thought. To Helian Qing, perhaps he looked like someone who did not appreciate favours. Considering how well off the Helian family were, and how many people wanted to but could not climb up the social ladder, yet here he was, unable to tell chalk from cheese , what kind of person would not get angry!}"A-Yang, what're you thinking about? Is it your order?" Shezhang, seeing him a bit dazed, asked.

He's probably still mad. Han Yang thought. To Helian Qing, perhaps he looked like someone who did not appreciate favours. Considering how well off the Helian family were, and how many people wanted to but could not climb up the social ladder, yet here he was, unable to tell chalk from cheese , what kind of person would not get angry!

_{Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.}Since it was, that on the very day the small suitcase's owner moved in, Helian Qing had also left for his business trip only to return just the day before yesterday. He simply did not take heed of where the boy's things were placed, or if the youth had spent those past two weeks sleeping in the guest bedroom.

Scoffing, then raking his fingers through his hair, Helian Qing reached for his phone beside him, opening a webpage to browse through the news.

---

Author's Note:

N/A

Notes:

^1. 不识好歹: bù shí hǎo dǎi: (idiom) not knowing chalk from cheese/not knowing what's good for you/ungrateful.

^2. 貌美如花|温柔似水: mào měi rú huā|wēn róu sì shuǐ: lit. beautiful like a flower|gentle like a stream(river). (Both idioms)

^3. 桃花盛开: táo huā shèng kāi: lit. peach blossom in full bloom. Being in love, finally discovering love/passion is how I'm interpreting this.

iana: I think someone's in trouble (o_o"

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