The Long Road Ahead: C13
Not Single
This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)
On that end, Xia Li was all confused and tangled up, and on this end, Xiao Ning was all confused and tangled out.
Xiao Ning sat himself on the sofa, looking up at the ceiling fan spinning above. Hands clutching his chest, his gaze then lowered, and in the haze caused by his transitioning vision it seemed as if a visage of a boy from the depth of his memories now stood before him, saying no words, staring at him quietly.
On that end, Xia Li was all confused and tangled up, and on this end, Xiao Ning was all confused and tangled out.
This... this made him...
Although he braced himself for the worst-case scenario with the face-to-face meeting, after parting ways and being left alone, he couldn't stop thinking things over and over again; and the more he thought about it, the more uncomfortable it got.
He knew they had set up an online chat group to play around, but as long as they did their work with no errors, Xiao Ning didn't care much. "No, you guys can just go. I have something to do.
Putting down his phone, Xiao Ning looked at his watch, seeing there was only a minute until work was done.
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
With only a few steps, he opened the door and got in. "Sorry for making you wait long."
Xiao Ning was now lost in these thoughts, his brows knitting tight, yet without seeing why, Shan Haiming still detected something amiss and so asked, "What's wrong?"
Xiao Ning: "..."
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
Thinking about how angry Lu Yan was, Xiao Ning wanted to do something. He felt as though his body was engraved with some sort of servility by Lu Yan, it had been the pattern built between them for all these years after all. A pattern where Lu Yan would swagger in front, while Xiao Ning would totter after him from behind.
Xiao Ning wasn't fond of troubling others, but that person was so kind it would be too inhumane to refuse. So, with no other option, he asked them to bring him back some local Yunnan specialities.
Was I really being a jerk then?
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
Xiao Ning sat himself on the sofa, looking up at the ceiling fan spinning above. Hands clutching his chest, his gaze then lowered, and in the haze caused by his transitioning vision it seemed as if a visage of a boy from the depth of his memories now stood before him, saying no words, staring at him quietly.
"A Chinese restaurant on Ningjiang Road. The food there is really good." Taking advantage of the red light, Shan Haiming turned to look at Xiao Ning, "Are you nervous?"
Shan Haiming then smiled out of nowhere, saying, "It's fine. What are getting so scared about? I said you have nothing to worry over, so you should do just that. I'm not going to let you get involved in some soap opera-like family drama. I'll deal with my parents first, then I'll let you go meet."
"Alright." Xiao Ning waited for Shan Haihong to end the call. Since he entered Rihua, after such a long time, he never thought he would have to speak to the Vice President directly one day.
Slowly closing his eyes, he releases a steady breath, the words Lu Yan said to him today, replaying in his mind. Apart from the feeling of all-encompassing and overwhelming regret, what he felt more than anything, was sorry.
When he thought of it like that, Xiao Ning was now in a half melancholic, half relaxed state. He then quickly pulled out a cardboard box, putting all the things he could find inside. Afterwards, he went online and began looking for a place.
But, the strange thing was, he wasn't sure who it was he had felt apologetic to.
Because he was inside the car, Shan hHaiming's voice was especially clear, "I'm at your company, waiting downstairs. Come straight down after you punch out. Are you hungry?"
To his polite words, Shan Haiming made no remark, only tossing a small bottle on Xiao Ning's lap, saying, "Seatbelt."
Slowly closing his eyes, he releases a steady breath, the words Lu Yan said to him today, replaying in his mind. Apart from the feeling of all-encompassing and overwhelming regret, what he felt more than anything, was sorry.
For Xiao Ning, this was his greatest wish. This house did not need to be too big, a single-bedroom apartment would be just good enough. All he wanted was to have one place where there was no one relying on him, or where he was dependent on someone. Just a place, where he didn't need to always keep a suitcase ready in case he needed to pack. Somewhere like that, would be good enough.
Shan Haiming then smiled out of nowhere, saying, "It's fine. What are getting so scared about? I said you have nothing to worry over, so you should do just that. I'm not going to let you get involved in some soap opera-like family drama. I'll deal with my parents first, then I'll let you go meet."
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
His words caused Xiao Ning's face to grow even more flushed, while all he could think of was that man's ability to have no words he could not say. Despite it all, Xiao Ning still pretended to be calm, then asked with a frown, "What are you talking about? Why are we still in the car? The valet standing outside has been there for a long time now."
Lifting his hand to undo his bow tie, Xiao Ning sat up, making his way to his bedroom to start picking out his clothes.
Was I really being a jerk then?
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
This allowed Xiao Ning to release a sigh of relief. Does this mean there will be no need to meet?
With this, he couldn't help but suddenly wonder, If this goes on, will I have to meet his parents in the future?
"Very good." Xiao Ning then went on to ask, "So where are we going to eat?"
However, when it came to stuff like dressing up, Xiao Ning had always been lacking in terms of experience. In the end, all he picked out was a shirt. As long as it's not too bold, it won't be seen as rude, right?
iana: I know, it's been a while. That blush though...（￣︶￣）
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
His words caused Xiao Ning's face to grow even more flushed, while all he could think of was that man's ability to have no words he could not say. Despite it all, Xiao Ning still pretended to be calm, then asked with a frown, "What are you talking about? Why are we still in the car? The valet standing outside has been there for a long time now."
"A Chinese restaurant on Ningjiang Road. The food there is really good." Taking advantage of the red light, Shan Haiming turned to look at Xiao Ning, "Are you nervous?"
"Then don't steal any food, alright? Be good. Later, we'll go get something to eat. I'm hanging up."
"A Chinese restaurant on Ningjiang Road. The food there is really good." Taking advantage of the red light, Shan Haiming turned to look at Xiao Ning, "Are you nervous?"
"A group dinner?" Xiao Ning was surprised, "When was that decided?"
After picking out the shirt, Xiao Ning slowly began to sort through the rest of his clothes. He was normally very neat and tidy, so whatever he took out was also returned to its proper place, and the clothes there were also all folded and neatly arranged. So right then as he put them away, it was a rather quick endeavour, and his suitcase was filled in no time at all.
Chen He smiled at this, jokingly remarking, "Is it a date?"
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
Shan Haiming's hair was shorter than it was when he last saw him, he looked a bit more vibrant too. While he still was focused on the road he asked, "Does it look good?"
"Mhm." Shan Haiming undid his seatbelt, right as he said, "Let's get going then, boyfriend."
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
After he was done putting away his clothes, there were still a lot of bits and pieces left over, but fortunately, he wasn't one to buy any and everything he took a liking to like Lu Yan, besides, there was still half of them housed in another apartment of Lu Yan's.
"Director Shan... I mean, Haiming is driving. I'm Xiao Ning." Xiao Ning looked at Shan Haiming, whose expression remained unchanged. "We should be there soon, are you guys already there?"
Someone else replied, "Of course he's not single. He's got a good income, good looks, and a good personality. How could a guy who's excellent husband material like that be single?"
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
Thinking of this fact gave rise to a deep feeling of melancholy, as he wondered if he needed to do it so thoroughly. But when he thought it over once more, he had been living in such an unsure and undefined state, that it wouldn't be good for him to stay there for too long. Was he still going to remain there even after Lu Yan got married?
However, when it came to stuff like dressing up, Xiao Ning had always been lacking in terms of experience. In the end, all he picked out was a shirt. As long as it's not too bold, it won't be seen as rude, right?
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
iana: I know, it's been a while. That blush though...（￣︶￣）
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
When he thought of it like that, Xiao Ning was now in a half melancholic, half relaxed state. He then quickly pulled out a cardboard box, putting all the things he could find inside. Afterwards, he went online and began looking for a place.
He then leaned forward and got out, while Xiao Ning sighed behind him, regretting with all he had, that casual remark he had said earlier as a joke.
Chen He smiled at this, jokingly remarking, "Is it a date?"
On that end, Xia Li was all confused and tangled up, and on this end, Xiao Ning was all confused and tangled out.
In line with this idea of his, he figured the best thing to do was buy a home.
"Very good." Xiao Ning then went on to ask, "So where are we going to eat?"
After he was done putting away his clothes, there were still a lot of bits and pieces left over, but fortunately, he wasn't one to buy any and everything he took a liking to like Lu Yan, besides, there was still half of them housed in another apartment of Lu Yan's.
"Alright." Xiao Ning waited for Shan Haihong to end the call. Since he entered Rihua, after such a long time, he never thought he would have to speak to the Vice President directly one day.
For Xiao Ning, this was his greatest wish. This house did not need to be too big, a single-bedroom apartment would be just good enough. All he wanted was to have one place where there was no one relying on him, or where he was dependent on someone. Just a place, where he didn't need to always keep a suitcase ready in case he needed to pack. Somewhere like that, would be good enough.
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
But before his frazzled mind could think clearly, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you blushing?"
In line with this idea of his, he figured the best thing to do was buy a home.
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
To his polite words, Shan Haiming made no remark, only tossing a small bottle on Xiao Ning's lap, saying, "Seatbelt."
Was I really being a jerk then?
Xiao Ning: "..."
A pet cat would be nice too, their fur is soft and really warm to the touch. Plus, when it gets cold out, you can just wrap them in a snuggle. A dog is a no though. Given that when Xiao Ning was little he was bitten by one belonging to a relative, leaving him with a bit of trauma.
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
Xiao Ning felt a bit overwhelmed by his unexpected favour, "No, I'm not hungry."
On that end, Xia Li was all confused and tangled up, and on this end, Xiao Ning was all confused and tangled out.
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
But Shan Haiming then added, "I'll talk to them before you all get introduced."
"What?!" Xiao Ning was so shocked, that he jerked forward, only to be pulled right back by the seatbelt against his chest. "You're going to tell your parents?"
iana: I know, it's been a while. That blush though...（￣︶￣）
Xiao Ning: "..."
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
◈◇◈
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
Xiao Ning: "..."
Putting down his phone, Xiao Ning looked at his watch, seeing there was only a minute until work was done.
With only a few steps, he opened the door and got in. "Sorry for making you wait long."
With this, he couldn't help but suddenly wonder, If this goes on, will I have to meet his parents in the future?
Putting down his phone, Xiao Ning looked at his watch, seeing there was only a minute until work was done.
I can't even imagine this! Isn't doing this a bit much? Xiao Ning never watched many idol dramas, and currently, no dog-blood plots especially come to mind. But just thinking about himself having to face the Big Boss of Rihua Enterprises, every inch of him screamed there was no way it would be something good.
To his polite words, Shan Haiming made no remark, only tossing a small bottle on Xiao Ning's lap, saying, "Seatbelt."
Who was wrong or who was right, simply didn't matter.
But, the strange thing was, he wasn't sure who it was he had felt apologetic to.
I see, the action starts here.
◈◇◈
"What?!" Xiao Ning was so shocked, that he jerked forward, only to be pulled right back by the seatbelt against his chest. "You're going to tell your parents?"
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
But, instead of letting himself constantly think about those things, Xiao Ning turned his focus towards his work. Beside him was a colleague talking about a business trip he had to Yunnan. This colleague and Xiao Ning had a good relationship since both worked in the customer service department before. Which was the reason they took the initiative to ask Xiao Ning if there was anything they would like him to bring back.
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
"...I, there is something I'd like to ask." Xiao Ning hesitated, but when facing Shan Haiming, he found it hard to stick to his overly cautious ways. "This thing with you and me, will it stop here with your brother, or with your family... as in, your parents?"
Xiao Ning wasn't fond of troubling others, but that person was so kind it would be too inhumane to refuse. So, with no other option, he asked them to bring him back some local Yunnan specialities.
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
Chen He didn't bother about it much, returning to pack up his own stuff and send a message to their group, "Xiao-ge has a date, so he's not coming."
Xiao Ning stared at Shan Haiming closely, thinking.
Afterwards, right before the time for him to get off work, Shan Haiming gave him a call. "Hey, boyfriend. Are you working overtime?"
Who was wrong or who was right, simply didn't matter.
Thinking about how angry Lu Yan was, Xiao Ning wanted to do something. He felt as though his body was engraved with some sort of servility by Lu Yan, it had been the pattern built between them for all these years after all. A pattern where Lu Yan would swagger in front, while Xiao Ning would totter after him from behind.
Thinking about how angry Lu Yan was, Xiao Ning wanted to do something. He felt as though his body was engraved with some sort of servility by Lu Yan, it had been the pattern built between them for all these years after all. A pattern where Lu Yan would swagger in front, while Xiao Ning would totter after him from behind.
The car came to a stop in front of the restaurant. Shan Haiming turned to look at him and asked, "What's on your mind? What's got your expression looking so bitter?"
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
This nickname made Xiao Ning feel a bit embarrassed, but it was he who chose it, though it was still difficult for him to speak after hearing it, so he let out a couple of coughs. "No overtime. How long until you arrive? I'll wait for you at the intersection, can you find the way? Want me to send you the address?"
"A group dinner?" Xiao Ning was surprised, "When was that decided?"
Xiao Ning: "..."
"A group dinner?" Xiao Ning was surprised, "When was that decided?"
Because he was inside the car, Shan hHaiming's voice was especially clear, "I'm at your company, waiting downstairs. Come straight down after you punch out. Are you hungry?"
"Aw... My heart's all broken!"
"Alright." Xiao Ning waited for Shan Haihong to end the call. Since he entered Rihua, after such a long time, he never thought he would have to speak to the Vice President directly one day.
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
After picking out the shirt, Xiao Ning slowly began to sort through the rest of his clothes. He was normally very neat and tidy, so whatever he took out was also returned to its proper place, and the clothes there were also all folded and neatly arranged. So right then as he put them away, it was a rather quick endeavour, and his suitcase was filled in no time at all.
Xiao Ning was now lost in these thoughts, his brows knitting tight, yet without seeing why, Shan Haiming still detected something amiss and so asked, "What's wrong?"
Xiao Ning wasn't fond of troubling others, but that person was so kind it would be too inhumane to refuse. So, with no other option, he asked them to bring him back some local Yunnan specialities.
Xiao Ning felt a bit overwhelmed by his unexpected favour, "No, I'm not hungry."
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
Xiao Ning, by someone younger than himself, was just told to 'be good' as if it was nothing. The look on Xiao Ning's face, at current, was simply unbearable, to say the least. But Shan Haiming always ends the call so cleanly, Xiao Ning never gets a chance to say anything about it, and his mentioning those words seemed too deliberate.
Putting down his phone, Xiao Ning looked at his watch, seeing there was only a minute until work was done.
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
He was wearing a dark blue T-shirt with long sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing the long and strong outlines of his arms as they disappeared under the soft cotton material. It was hard to say whether it was a good fit, but it was extremely fitting for that sunshiny handsome atmosphere of his, which was completely different from Xiao Ning's refined and delicate appearance.
"What? He's not single!"
"Then don't steal any food, alright? Be good. Later, we'll go get something to eat. I'm hanging up."
In response, Xiao Ning smiled, saying, "Not really."
Xiao Ning, by someone younger than himself, was just told to 'be good' as if it was nothing. The look on Xiao Ning's face, at current, was simply unbearable, to say the least. But Shan Haiming always ends the call so cleanly, Xiao Ning never gets a chance to say anything about it, and his mentioning those words seemed too deliberate.
After understanding what he meant, Shan Haiming without falter only stated in return, "You don't have to worry."
Putting down his phone, Xiao Ning looked at his watch, seeing there was only a minute until work was done.
These words of his made Xiao Ning feel a bit complicated, but he had no idea why he felt so. There was a man interested in the same seⅹ close to him, but he also knew that man would never come out to his own parents. Yet, here was this man who was only pretending, and not only would he come out to them, but he also sincerely promised him he would handle things properly.
"...don't do that. If there's anything you need my help with, just tell me and I'll do my best to help you. I was just a bit taken by surprise, that's all." After he spoke, Xiao Ning looked away, a slight warmth overtaking his ears. It was not as though his heart was pounding or anything, just that he was a little embarrassed from being taken care of like some little kid in so many aspects. The one who was four years older was him, was it not?
Normally, Xiao Ning didn't put any distance between him and them, but looking at the time, he turned off the computer while replying, "Yes. I'll be leaving first. You guys should enjoy yourselves."
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
A pet cat would be nice too, their fur is soft and really warm to the touch. Plus, when it gets cold out, you can just wrap them in a snuggle. A dog is a no though. Given that when Xiao Ning was little he was bitten by one belonging to a relative, leaving him with a bit of trauma.
Because he was inside the car, Shan hHaiming's voice was especially clear, "I'm at your company, waiting downstairs. Come straight down after you punch out. Are you hungry?"
"Very good." Xiao Ning then went on to ask, "So where are we going to eat?"
Was I really being a jerk then?
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
"A group dinner?" Xiao Ning was surprised, "When was that decided?"
"...don't do that. If there's anything you need my help with, just tell me and I'll do my best to help you. I was just a bit taken by surprise, that's all." After he spoke, Xiao Ning looked away, a slight warmth overtaking his ears. It was not as though his heart was pounding or anything, just that he was a little embarrassed from being taken care of like some little kid in so many aspects. The one who was four years older was him, was it not?
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
"...I, there is something I'd like to ask." Xiao Ning hesitated, but when facing Shan Haiming, he found it hard to stick to his overly cautious ways. "This thing with you and me, will it stop here with your brother, or with your family... as in, your parents?"
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
When he thought of it like that, Xiao Ning was now in a half melancholic, half relaxed state. He then quickly pulled out a cardboard box, putting all the things he could find inside. Afterwards, he went online and began looking for a place.
He knew they had set up an online chat group to play around, but as long as they did their work with no errors, Xiao Ning didn't care much. "No, you guys can just go. I have something to do.
Someone else replied, "Of course he's not single. He's got a good income, good looks, and a good personality. How could a guy who's excellent husband material like that be single?"
He knew they had set up an online chat group to play around, but as long as they did their work with no errors, Xiao Ning didn't care much. "No, you guys can just go. I have something to do.
This allowed Xiao Ning to release a sigh of relief. Does this mean there will be no need to meet?
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
iana: I know, it's been a while. That blush though...（￣︶￣）
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
That guy was never a talkative person, but there was always a trace of self-confidence in his brows. So without opening his mouth once, he made others not know how to speak.
Xiao Ning stared at Shan Haiming closely, thinking.
Chen He smiled at this, jokingly remarking, "Is it a date?"
It's not the same as someone who was just always silent. Xiao Ning drank two mouthfuls of the juice out of politeness, its sweet and tart flavours felt refreshing in his mouth. "Did you get a haircut?"
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
Normally, Xiao Ning didn't put any distance between him and them, but looking at the time, he turned off the computer while replying, "Yes. I'll be leaving first. You guys should enjoy yourselves."
Thinking of this fact gave rise to a deep feeling of melancholy, as he wondered if he needed to do it so thoroughly. But when he thought it over once more, he had been living in such an unsure and undefined state, that it wouldn't be good for him to stay there for too long. Was he still going to remain there even after Lu Yan got married?
Chen He didn't bother about it much, returning to pack up his own stuff and send a message to their group, "Xiao-ge has a date, so he's not coming."
That guy was never a talkative person, but there was always a trace of self-confidence in his brows. So without opening his mouth once, he made others not know how to speak.
"What? He's not single!"
For Xiao Ning, this was his greatest wish. This house did not need to be too big, a single-bedroom apartment would be just good enough. All he wanted was to have one place where there was no one relying on him, or where he was dependent on someone. Just a place, where he didn't need to always keep a suitcase ready in case he needed to pack. Somewhere like that, would be good enough.
For Xiao Ning, this was his greatest wish. This house did not need to be too big, a single-bedroom apartment would be just good enough. All he wanted was to have one place where there was no one relying on him, or where he was dependent on someone. Just a place, where he didn't need to always keep a suitcase ready in case he needed to pack. Somewhere like that, would be good enough.
For Xiao Ning, this was his greatest wish. This house did not need to be too big, a single-bedroom apartment would be just good enough. All he wanted was to have one place where there was no one relying on him, or where he was dependent on someone. Just a place, where he didn't need to always keep a suitcase ready in case he needed to pack. Somewhere like that, would be good enough.
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
That guy was never a talkative person, but there was always a trace of self-confidence in his brows. So without opening his mouth once, he made others not know how to speak.
Someone else replied, "Of course he's not single. He's got a good income, good looks, and a good personality. How could a guy who's excellent husband material like that be single?"
Xiao Ning felt a bit overwhelmed by his unexpected favour, "No, I'm not hungry."
His words caused Xiao Ning's face to grow even more flushed, while all he could think of was that man's ability to have no words he could not say. Despite it all, Xiao Ning still pretended to be calm, then asked with a frown, "What are you talking about? Why are we still in the car? The valet standing outside has been there for a long time now."
"Then don't steal any food, alright? Be good. Later, we'll go get something to eat. I'm hanging up."
"Aw... My heart's all broken!"
On that end, Xia Li was all confused and tangled up, and on this end, Xiao Ning was all confused and tangled out.
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
Swiping his thumb over the call button, he then placed the phone beside his ear, just as the person on the other end asked: "Haiming, are you guys on your way?"
After this, huge rows of heartbroken faces followed.
Slowly closing his eyes, he releases a steady breath, the words Lu Yan said to him today, replaying in his mind. Apart from the feeling of all-encompassing and overwhelming regret, what he felt more than anything, was sorry.
Xiao Ning felt a bit overwhelmed by his unexpected favour, "No, I'm not hungry."
However, when it came to stuff like dressing up, Xiao Ning had always been lacking in terms of experience. In the end, all he picked out was a shirt. As long as it's not too bold, it won't be seen as rude, right?
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
iana: I know, it's been a while. That blush though...（￣︶￣）
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
The reply from the opposite end of the line was delayed by a second, but it was almost unnoticeable, "That's fine then. Tell Haiming we'll be waiting in the Liuli room. You guys be careful on your way, alright?"
In line with this idea of his, he figured the best thing to do was buy a home.
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
Because he was inside the car, Shan hHaiming's voice was especially clear, "I'm at your company, waiting downstairs. Come straight down after you punch out. Are you hungry?"
Afterwards, right before the time for him to get off work, Shan Haiming gave him a call. "Hey, boyfriend. Are you working overtime?"
With only a few steps, he opened the door and got in. "Sorry for making you wait long."
I can't even imagine this! Isn't doing this a bit much? Xiao Ning never watched many idol dramas, and currently, no dog-blood plots especially come to mind. But just thinking about himself having to face the Big Boss of Rihua Enterprises, every inch of him screamed there was no way it would be something good.
But before his frazzled mind could think clearly, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you blushing?"
"A group dinner?" Xiao Ning was surprised, "When was that decided?"
In response, Xiao Ning smiled, saying, "Not really."
"Director Shan... I mean, Haiming is driving. I'm Xiao Ning." Xiao Ning looked at Shan Haiming, whose expression remained unchanged. "We should be there soon, are you guys already there?"
"Aw... My heart's all broken!"
But Shan Haiming then added, "I'll talk to them before you all get introduced."
To his polite words, Shan Haiming made no remark, only tossing a small bottle on Xiao Ning's lap, saying, "Seatbelt."
Thinking about how angry Lu Yan was, Xiao Ning wanted to do something. He felt as though his body was engraved with some sort of servility by Lu Yan, it had been the pattern built between them for all these years after all. A pattern where Lu Yan would swagger in front, while Xiao Ning would totter after him from behind.
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
Putting down his phone, Xiao Ning looked at his watch, seeing there was only a minute until work was done.
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
These words of his made Xiao Ning feel a bit complicated, but he had no idea why he felt so. There was a man interested in the same seⅹ close to him, but he also knew that man would never come out to his own parents. Yet, here was this man who was only pretending, and not only would he come out to them, but he also sincerely promised him he would handle things properly.
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
He was wearing a dark blue T-shirt with long sleeves rolled up to his elbows, revealing the long and strong outlines of his arms as they disappeared under the soft cotton material. It was hard to say whether it was a good fit, but it was extremely fitting for that sunshiny handsome atmosphere of his, which was completely different from Xiao Ning's refined and delicate appearance.
"It's... your fault..." Xiao Ning never thought there would come a day he would be going with someone to meet their family, or that he would be doing so with a same-seⅹ partner.
Hug any cat or dog you like, and when there's someone to hold you, don't get too excited then, alright?= =
Thinking about how angry Lu Yan was, Xiao Ning wanted to do something. He felt as though his body was engraved with some sort of servility by Lu Yan, it had been the pattern built between them for all these years after all. A pattern where Lu Yan would swagger in front, while Xiao Ning would totter after him from behind.
That guy was never a talkative person, but there was always a trace of self-confidence in his brows. So without opening his mouth once, he made others not know how to speak.
With only a few steps, he opened the door and got in. "Sorry for making you wait long."
◈◇◈
Was I really being a jerk then?
He then leaned forward and got out, while Xiao Ning sighed behind him, regretting with all he had, that casual remark he had said earlier as a joke.
But, instead of letting himself constantly think about those things, Xiao Ning turned his focus towards his work. Beside him was a colleague talking about a business trip he had to Yunnan. This colleague and Xiao Ning had a good relationship since both worked in the customer service department before. Which was the reason they took the initiative to ask Xiao Ning if there was anything they would like him to bring back.
It's not the same as someone who was just always silent. Xiao Ning drank two mouthfuls of the juice out of politeness, its sweet and tart flavours felt refreshing in his mouth. "Did you get a haircut?"
Seeing his face finally relax, the corners of Shan Haiming's lips curled upwards. His smile seemed as though it was ironed by the sun, carrying a warmth and cheerfulness which made his words sound teasing, "Are you scared?"
"What?!" Xiao Ning was so shocked, that he jerked forward, only to be pulled right back by the seatbelt against his chest. "You're going to tell your parents?"
Because he was inside the car, Shan hHaiming's voice was especially clear, "I'm at your company, waiting downstairs. Come straight down after you punch out. Are you hungry?"
Xiao Ning, by someone younger than himself, was just told to 'be good' as if it was nothing. The look on Xiao Ning's face, at current, was simply unbearable, to say the least. But Shan Haiming always ends the call so cleanly, Xiao Ning never gets a chance to say anything about it, and his mentioning those words seemed too deliberate.
With only a few steps, he opened the door and got in. "Sorry for making you wait long."
Shan Haiming's hair was shorter than it was when he last saw him, he looked a bit more vibrant too. While he still was focused on the road he asked, "Does it look good?"
This... this made him...
"A Chinese restaurant on Ningjiang Road. The food there is really good." Taking advantage of the red light, Shan Haiming turned to look at Xiao Ning, "Are you nervous?"
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
This... this made him...
"Very good." Xiao Ning then went on to ask, "So where are we going to eat?"
Swiping his thumb over the call button, he then placed the phone beside his ear, just as the person on the other end asked: "Haiming, are you guys on your way?"
This allowed Xiao Ning to release a sigh of relief. Does this mean there will be no need to meet?
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
Afterwards, right before the time for him to get off work, Shan Haiming gave him a call. "Hey, boyfriend. Are you working overtime?"
Xiao Ning was now lost in these thoughts, his brows knitting tight, yet without seeing why, Shan Haiming still detected something amiss and so asked, "What's wrong?"
"A Chinese restaurant on Ningjiang Road. The food there is really good." Taking advantage of the red light, Shan Haiming turned to look at Xiao Ning, "Are you nervous?"
Shan Haiming's hair was shorter than it was when he last saw him, he looked a bit more vibrant too. While he still was focused on the road he asked, "Does it look good?"
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
Xiao Ning stared at Shan Haiming closely, thinking.
Shan Haiming's hair was shorter than it was when he last saw him, he looked a bit more vibrant too. While he still was focused on the road he asked, "Does it look good?"
"It's... your fault..." Xiao Ning never thought there would come a day he would be going with someone to meet their family, or that he would be doing so with a same-seⅹ partner.
Hug any cat or dog you like, and when there's someone to hold you, don't get too excited then, alright?= =
In response, Xiao Ning smiled, saying, "Not really."
Lifting his hand to undo his bow tie, Xiao Ning sat up, making his way to his bedroom to start picking out his clothes.
The car came to a stop in front of the restaurant. Shan Haiming turned to look at him and asked, "What's on your mind? What's got your expression looking so bitter?"
Xiao Ning stared at Shan Haiming closely, thinking.
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
Xiao Ning stared at Shan Haiming closely, thinking.
Chen He didn't bother about it much, returning to pack up his own stuff and send a message to their group, "Xiao-ge has a date, so he's not coming."
Xiao Ning felt a bit overwhelmed by his unexpected favour, "No, I'm not hungry."
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
"Alright." Xiao Ning waited for Shan Haihong to end the call. Since he entered Rihua, after such a long time, he never thought he would have to speak to the Vice President directly one day.
Xiao Ning stared at Shan Haiming closely, thinking.
Normally, Xiao Ning didn't put any distance between him and them, but looking at the time, he turned off the computer while replying, "Yes. I'll be leaving first. You guys should enjoy yourselves."
Xiao Ning: "..."
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
His words caused Xiao Ning's face to grow even more flushed, while all he could think of was that man's ability to have no words he could not say. Despite it all, Xiao Ning still pretended to be calm, then asked with a frown, "What are you talking about? Why are we still in the car? The valet standing outside has been there for a long time now."
"...don't do that. If there's anything you need my help with, just tell me and I'll do my best to help you. I was just a bit taken by surprise, that's all." After he spoke, Xiao Ning looked away, a slight warmth overtaking his ears. It was not as though his heart was pounding or anything, just that he was a little embarrassed from being taken care of like some little kid in so many aspects. The one who was four years older was him, was it not?
Xiao Ning, by someone younger than himself, was just told to 'be good' as if it was nothing. The look on Xiao Ning's face, at current, was simply unbearable, to say the least. But Shan Haiming always ends the call so cleanly, Xiao Ning never gets a chance to say anything about it, and his mentioning those words seemed too deliberate.
I see, the action starts here.
◈◇◈
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
Chen He smiled at this, jokingly remarking, "Is it a date?"
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
"Aw... My heart's all broken!"
Swiping his thumb over the call button, he then placed the phone beside his ear, just as the person on the other end asked: "Haiming, are you guys on your way?"
After this, huge rows of heartbroken faces followed.
"Director Shan... I mean, Haiming is driving. I'm Xiao Ning." Xiao Ning looked at Shan Haiming, whose expression remained unchanged. "We should be there soon, are you guys already there?"
Not Single
Thinking of this fact gave rise to a deep feeling of melancholy, as he wondered if he needed to do it so thoroughly. But when he thought it over once more, he had been living in such an unsure and undefined state, that it wouldn't be good for him to stay there for too long. Was he still going to remain there even after Lu Yan got married?
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
The reply from the opposite end of the line was delayed by a second, but it was almost unnoticeable, "That's fine then. Tell Haiming we'll be waiting in the Liuli room. You guys be careful on your way, alright?"
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
"Alright." Xiao Ning waited for Shan Haihong to end the call. Since he entered Rihua, after such a long time, he never thought he would have to speak to the Vice President directly one day.
The car came to a stop in front of the restaurant. Shan Haiming turned to look at him and asked, "What's on your mind? What's got your expression looking so bitter?"
After understanding what he meant, Shan Haiming without falter only stated in return, "You don't have to worry."
The reply from the opposite end of the line was delayed by a second, but it was almost unnoticeable, "That's fine then. Tell Haiming we'll be waiting in the Liuli room. You guys be careful on your way, alright?"
Xiao Ning: "..."
In response, Xiao Ning smiled, saying, "Not really."
"A group dinner?" Xiao Ning was surprised, "When was that decided?"
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
With this, he couldn't help but suddenly wonder, If this goes on, will I have to meet his parents in the future?
"What?!" Xiao Ning was so shocked, that he jerked forward, only to be pulled right back by the seatbelt against his chest. "You're going to tell your parents?"
"...don't do that. If there's anything you need my help with, just tell me and I'll do my best to help you. I was just a bit taken by surprise, that's all." After he spoke, Xiao Ning looked away, a slight warmth overtaking his ears. It was not as though his heart was pounding or anything, just that he was a little embarrassed from being taken care of like some little kid in so many aspects. The one who was four years older was him, was it not?
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
Xiao Ning was now lost in these thoughts, his brows knitting tight, yet without seeing why, Shan Haiming still detected something amiss and so asked, "What's wrong?"
Someone else replied, "Of course he's not single. He's got a good income, good looks, and a good personality. How could a guy who's excellent husband material like that be single?"
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
When Monday came, Xiao Ning still hadn't received any messages from Lu Yan. He was well aware Lu Yan had no intention of doing anything, and would just wait for him to go there with his hanging in apology to make up.
I see, the action starts here.
With this, he couldn't help but suddenly wonder, If this goes on, will I have to meet his parents in the future?
Shan Haiming's hair was shorter than it was when he last saw him, he looked a bit more vibrant too. While he still was focused on the road he asked, "Does it look good?"
In response, Xiao Ning smiled, saying, "Not really."
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
Hug any cat or dog you like, and when there's someone to hold you, don't get too excited then, alright?= =
A pet cat would be nice too, their fur is soft and really warm to the touch. Plus, when it gets cold out, you can just wrap them in a snuggle. A dog is a no though. Given that when Xiao Ning was little he was bitten by one belonging to a relative, leaving him with a bit of trauma.
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
He knew they had set up an online chat group to play around, but as long as they did their work with no errors, Xiao Ning didn't care much. "No, you guys can just go. I have something to do.
After understanding what he meant, Shan Haiming without falter only stated in return, "You don't have to worry."
Xiao Ning, by someone younger than himself, was just told to 'be good' as if it was nothing. The look on Xiao Ning's face, at current, was simply unbearable, to say the least. But Shan Haiming always ends the call so cleanly, Xiao Ning never gets a chance to say anything about it, and his mentioning those words seemed too deliberate.
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
After he was done putting away his clothes, there were still a lot of bits and pieces left over, but fortunately, he wasn't one to buy any and everything he took a liking to like Lu Yan, besides, there was still half of them housed in another apartment of Lu Yan's.
"...I, there is something I'd like to ask." Xiao Ning hesitated, but when facing Shan Haiming, he found it hard to stick to his overly cautious ways. "This thing with you and me, will it stop here with your brother, or with your family... as in, your parents?"
But before his frazzled mind could think clearly, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you blushing?"
After understanding what he meant, Shan Haiming without falter only stated in return, "You don't have to worry."
But, instead of letting himself constantly think about those things, Xiao Ning turned his focus towards his work. Beside him was a colleague talking about a business trip he had to Yunnan. This colleague and Xiao Ning had a good relationship since both worked in the customer service department before. Which was the reason they took the initiative to ask Xiao Ning if there was anything they would like him to bring back.
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
"...don't do that. If there's anything you need my help with, just tell me and I'll do my best to help you. I was just a bit taken by surprise, that's all." After he spoke, Xiao Ning looked away, a slight warmth overtaking his ears. It was not as though his heart was pounding or anything, just that he was a little embarrassed from being taken care of like some little kid in so many aspects. The one who was four years older was him, was it not?
For Xiao Ning, this was his greatest wish. This house did not need to be too big, a single-bedroom apartment would be just good enough. All he wanted was to have one place where there was no one relying on him, or where he was dependent on someone. Just a place, where he didn't need to always keep a suitcase ready in case he needed to pack. Somewhere like that, would be good enough.
On that end, Xia Li was all confused and tangled up, and on this end, Xiao Ning was all confused and tangled out.
This allowed Xiao Ning to release a sigh of relief. Does this mean there will be no need to meet?
Shan Haiming then smiled out of nowhere, saying, "It's fine. What are getting so scared about? I said you have nothing to worry over, so you should do just that. I'm not going to let you get involved in some soap opera-like family drama. I'll deal with my parents first, then I'll let you go meet."
I can't even imagine this! Isn't doing this a bit much? Xiao Ning never watched many idol dramas, and currently, no dog-blood plots especially come to mind. But just thinking about himself having to face the Big Boss of Rihua Enterprises, every inch of him screamed there was no way it would be something good.
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
But Shan Haiming then added, "I'll talk to them before you all get introduced."
However, in the current economic environment buying a house was too difficult, so the next best thing, was for him to find an apartment to rent first.
Shan Haiming nodded, one of his hands on the steering wheel while the other held onto the gear stick, as he drove out of the parking space.
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
"Didn't I say earlier, if you have something you want to say, just say it." Shan Haiming then added, "What is with this character of yours? Why don't you listen to me?"
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
Xiao Ning: "..."
With this, he couldn't help but suddenly wonder, If this goes on, will I have to meet his parents in the future?
I can't even imagine this! Isn't doing this a bit much? Xiao Ning never watched many idol dramas, and currently, no dog-blood plots especially come to mind. But just thinking about himself having to face the Big Boss of Rihua Enterprises, every inch of him screamed there was no way it would be something good.
Hug any cat or dog you like, and when there's someone to hold you, don't get too excited then, alright?= =
"What?!" Xiao Ning was so shocked, that he jerked forward, only to be pulled right back by the seatbelt against his chest. "You're going to tell your parents?"
"Mhm." Shan Haiming undid his seatbelt, right as he said, "Let's get going then, boyfriend."
But, instead of letting himself constantly think about those things, Xiao Ning turned his focus towards his work. Beside him was a colleague talking about a business trip he had to Yunnan. This colleague and Xiao Ning had a good relationship since both worked in the customer service department before. Which was the reason they took the initiative to ask Xiao Ning if there was anything they would like him to bring back.
"Alright." Xiao Ning waited for Shan Haihong to end the call. Since he entered Rihua, after such a long time, he never thought he would have to speak to the Vice President directly one day.
This allowed Xiao Ning to release a sigh of relief. Does this mean there will be no need to meet?
"What?!" Xiao Ning was so shocked, that he jerked forward, only to be pulled right back by the seatbelt against his chest. "You're going to tell your parents?"
With this, he couldn't help but suddenly wonder, If this goes on, will I have to meet his parents in the future?
"A Chinese restaurant on Ningjiang Road. The food there is really good." Taking advantage of the red light, Shan Haiming turned to look at Xiao Ning, "Are you nervous?"
I can't even imagine this! Isn't doing this a bit much? Xiao Ning never watched many idol dramas, and currently, no dog-blood plots especially come to mind. But just thinking about himself having to face the Big Boss of Rihua Enterprises, every inch of him screamed there was no way it would be something good.
"What? He's not single!"
But before his frazzled mind could think clearly, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you blushing?"
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
The car came to a stop in front of the restaurant. Shan Haiming turned to look at him and asked, "What's on your mind? What's got your expression looking so bitter?"
I see, the action starts here.
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
After this, huge rows of heartbroken faces followed.
"It's... your fault..." Xiao Ning never thought there would come a day he would be going with someone to meet their family, or that he would be doing so with a same-seⅹ partner.
Although he braced himself for the worst-case scenario with the face-to-face meeting, after parting ways and being left alone, he couldn't stop thinking things over and over again; and the more he thought about it, the more uncomfortable it got.
Seeing his face finally relax, the corners of Shan Haiming's lips curled upwards. His smile seemed as though it was ironed by the sun, carrying a warmth and cheerfulness which made his words sound teasing, "Are you scared?"
Xiao Ning felt a bit overwhelmed by his unexpected favour, "No, I'm not hungry."
"Very good." Xiao Ning then went on to ask, "So where are we going to eat?"
"Nope. Just talk less, and eat more. Ignore them all you want." Shan Haiming's phone rang just as the red light also came on, so using his right hand to pluck out the phone placed between the car seats, he threw it to Xiao Ning, saying, "Answer it."
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
In line with this idea of his, he figured the best thing to do was buy a home.
Swiping his thumb over the call button, he then placed the phone beside his ear, just as the person on the other end asked: "Haiming, are you guys on your way?"
A pet cat would be nice too, their fur is soft and really warm to the touch. Plus, when it gets cold out, you can just wrap them in a snuggle. A dog is a no though. Given that when Xiao Ning was little he was bitten by one belonging to a relative, leaving him with a bit of trauma.
It wasn't as if he was actually going to go meet Shan Haiming's parents, and his heart wasn't that weak. "But, I will still treat this matter quite seriously. So I don't ruin your plan, is there anything I need to pay special attention to?"
The reply from the opposite end of the line was delayed by a second, but it was almost unnoticeable, "That's fine then. Tell Haiming we'll be waiting in the Liuli room. You guys be careful on your way, alright?"
Slowly closing his eyes, he releases a steady breath, the words Lu Yan said to him today, replaying in his mind. Apart from the feeling of all-encompassing and overwhelming regret, what he felt more than anything, was sorry.
◈◇◈
But during this moment, Shan Haiming just looked at him without any expression, making him feel uneasy, but it also made him reflect on his own professionalism.
Xiao Ning was now lost in these thoughts, his brows knitting tight, yet without seeing why, Shan Haiming still detected something amiss and so asked, "What's wrong?"
Xiao Ning: "..."
Swiping his thumb over the call button, he then placed the phone beside his ear, just as the person on the other end asked: "Haiming, are you guys on your way?"
Hug any cat or dog you like, and when there's someone to hold you, don't get too excited then, alright?= =
Although he braced himself for the worst-case scenario with the face-to-face meeting, after parting ways and being left alone, he couldn't stop thinking things over and over again; and the more he thought about it, the more uncomfortable it got.
Shan Haiming then smiled out of nowhere, saying, "It's fine. What are getting so scared about? I said you have nothing to worry over, so you should do just that. I'm not going to let you get involved in some soap opera-like family drama. I'll deal with my parents first, then I'll let you go meet."
Xiao Ning himself knew nothing of the commotion going on in this group, so he hurried clocked out and made his way downstairs. As soon as he made it outside, the sight of Shan Haiming's car parked in a space on the street met his eyes.
The reply from the opposite end of the line was delayed by a second, but it was almost unnoticeable, "That's fine then. Tell Haiming we'll be waiting in the Liuli room. You guys be careful on your way, alright?"
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
Lifting his hand to undo his bow tie, Xiao Ning sat up, making his way to his bedroom to start picking out his clothes.
But Shan Haiming then added, "I'll talk to them before you all get introduced."
These words of his made Xiao Ning feel a bit complicated, but he had no idea why he felt so. There was a man interested in the same seⅹ close to him, but he also knew that man would never come out to his own parents. Yet, here was this man who was only pretending, and not only would he come out to them, but he also sincerely promised him he would handle things properly.
To his polite words, Shan Haiming made no remark, only tossing a small bottle on Xiao Ning's lap, saying, "Seatbelt."
After he was done putting away his clothes, there were still a lot of bits and pieces left over, but fortunately, he wasn't one to buy any and everything he took a liking to like Lu Yan, besides, there was still half of them housed in another apartment of Lu Yan's.
Thinking of this fact gave rise to a deep feeling of melancholy, as he wondered if he needed to do it so thoroughly. But when he thought it over once more, he had been living in such an unsure and undefined state, that it wouldn't be good for him to stay there for too long. Was he still going to remain there even after Lu Yan got married?
This... this made him...
Chen He didn't bother about it much, returning to pack up his own stuff and send a message to their group, "Xiao-ge has a date, so he's not coming."
After understanding what he meant, Shan Haiming without falter only stated in return, "You don't have to worry."
But, the strange thing was, he wasn't sure who it was he had felt apologetic to.
Seeing his face finally relax, the corners of Shan Haiming's lips curled upwards. His smile seemed as though it was ironed by the sun, carrying a warmth and cheerfulness which made his words sound teasing, "Are you scared?"
His words caused Xiao Ning's face to grow even more flushed, while all he could think of was that man's ability to have no words he could not say. Despite it all, Xiao Ning still pretended to be calm, then asked with a frown, "What are you talking about? Why are we still in the car? The valet standing outside has been there for a long time now."
I see, the action starts here.
For him, these kinds of fierce and frightening waves were already far beyond the realm of his existence.
"...don't do that. If there's anything you need my help with, just tell me and I'll do my best to help you. I was just a bit taken by surprise, that's all." After he spoke, Xiao Ning looked away, a slight warmth overtaking his ears. It was not as though his heart was pounding or anything, just that he was a little embarrassed from being taken care of like some little kid in so many aspects. The one who was four years older was him, was it not?
A new employee, Chen He, propped himself over the partition between their desks, asking, "Xiao-ge, we having a group dinner later, you coming?"
Hug any cat or dog you like, and when there's someone to hold you, don't get too excited then, alright?= =
Thinking of this fact gave rise to a deep feeling of melancholy, as he wondered if he needed to do it so thoroughly. But when he thought it over once more, he had been living in such an unsure and undefined state, that it wouldn't be good for him to stay there for too long. Was he still going to remain there even after Lu Yan got married?
iana: I know, it's been a while. That blush though...（￣︶￣）
Hearing this, Xiao Ning pulled the seatbelt and fastened it. He then pieced up the plastic bottle which looked like it was three hundred millilitres in size, it contained orange juice, and the pulp can still be seen inside. "Thank you."
But before his frazzled mind could think clearly, Shan Haiming asked, "Why are you blushing?"
"Um... A little while ago..." Chen He brushed over the topic, immediately asking, "Want to go together?"
His words caused Xiao Ning's face to grow even more flushed, while all he could think of was that man's ability to have no words he could not say. Despite it all, Xiao Ning still pretended to be calm, then asked with a frown, "What are you talking about? Why are we still in the car? The valet standing outside has been there for a long time now."
"Then don't steal any food, alright? Be good. Later, we'll go get something to eat. I'm hanging up."
"Mhm." Shan Haiming undid his seatbelt, right as he said, "Let's get going then, boyfriend."
Xiao Ning, by someone younger than himself, was just told to 'be good' as if it was nothing. The look on Xiao Ning's face, at current, was simply unbearable, to say the least. But Shan Haiming always ends the call so cleanly, Xiao Ning never gets a chance to say anything about it, and his mentioning those words seemed too deliberate.
Who was wrong or who was right, simply didn't matter.
I can't even imagine this! Isn't doing this a bit much? Xiao Ning never watched many idol dramas, and currently, no dog-blood plots especially come to mind. But just thinking about himself having to face the Big Boss of Rihua Enterprises, every inch of him screamed there was no way it would be something good.
Chen He didn't bother about it much, returning to pack up his own stuff and send a message to their group, "Xiao-ge has a date, so he's not coming."
This question brought Xiao Ning back to his senses, with him then replying, "Nothing. I'm fine."
He then leaned forward and got out, while Xiao Ning sighed behind him, regretting with all he had, that casual remark he had said earlier as a joke.
Afterwards, right before the time for him to get off work, Shan Haiming gave him a call. "Hey, boyfriend. Are you working overtime?"
Lifting his hand to undo his bow tie, Xiao Ning sat up, making his way to his bedroom to start picking out his clothes.
Afterwards, right before the time for him to get off work, Shan Haiming gave him a call. "Hey, boyfriend. Are you working overtime?"
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