UD: C42
That girl is Anchen-jie, she's Huaisu-ge's old girlfriend
This novel was posted on cntranslationss [dot] blogsp0t [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)
Tiny note: -didi/di = little brother | -jie = older sister | -ge = older brother.
Qiao Damai's words made Qing Yichu's mouth fall open but no words made their exit. But having held his tongue for a good while, he then said with a stern smile: "But I think given how taxing this trip here was it's the proper time to meet with Huaisu-ge."
On the way back to his place, Qiao Damai ignored Qing Yichu, leaving him hanging by the wayside, and roping me into a conversation about his recent goings-on at school, chatting up a storm. Qing Yichu never said anything, and I had no interest in taking the initiative to send any words his way. So, there, in the seat behind us, he busied himself, playing on his phone on his own, seeming to be at peace. Still chatting, Qiao then twisted his gaze to Qing Yichu in the backseat, his tone friendly as he asked: "Hey, little bro, why does your face look so pale? You're practically blue! Did you not get enough rest?"
But that last bit he mentioned, about Xiao Renzong wanting Xiao Huaisu to return to France, did manage to leave me somewhat unnerved.
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
"He's someone who's so proud, yet he's willing to cook for you. Ever since he stayed at my aunt's and I saw him, he was in the study practising his calligraphy, reading books, playing chess with my uncle, or discussing something in his professional field. He was some who was like a cool breeze and a bright moon. I never thought he'd be the kind of person that would be going out to buy groceries to make dinner." It was the sort of sadness and loss one felt deep in their heart when it seems a though the god they hold dear in their heart decided to stay on earth for the sake of a mortal, and acts as an ordinary mortal themselves.
But Qing Yichu did put stock in how he appeared towards others, and Qiao Damai brimmed with such zeal he probably figured it would not be good to say nothing in return.
Seeing this reaction of mine, Qing Yichu didn't appear all that pleased. The fruit in his hand remained uneaten, and the complicated expression he had a while ago made a reappearance.
So with a warm voice seeming to contain a smile, he responded: "I am a bit tired."
"This wasn't because I got bored, I just figured if you wanted to make beef stir-fry it'd be better to chop stuff up beforehand," I explained.
Qiao Damai quickly restrained his laughter, his face now serious as he said: "That restaurant you mentioned, sounds good. We'll head to your place so we can in a little bit so you can get your self organised and later this evening we'll all go eat some roast duck. How about that, Li Tian?"
Qiao Damai's words made Qing Yichu's mouth fall open but no words made their exit. But having held his tongue for a good while, he then said with a stern smile: "But I think given how taxing this trip here was it's the proper time to meet with Huaisu-ge."
Clapping his hand, Qiao Damai then said in return: "It's late today too, so I think it'd be better to take you out to look around tomorrow. So when you get home, make sure to get a lot of rest, alright? Get yourself adjusted to the time difference and catch up on some sleep."
It was Xiao Huaisu who didn't show up. Don't blame, it seriously wasn't my fault.
Qing Yichu didn't leave, and I saw his initial shock when he heard Xiao Huaisu's words, as if he never thought Xiao Huaisu would take the initiative to help do these things. He then stared at me in astonishment, the look on his face complex. Afterwards, he put on a fresh face as he asked Xiao Huaisu: "Huaisu-gu, you can cook?"
Qiao Damai quickly restrained his laughter, his face now serious as he said: "That restaurant you mentioned, sounds good. We'll head to your place so we can in a little bit so you can get your self organised and later this evening we'll all go eat some roast duck. How about that, Li Tian?"
Hearing this, Qing Yichu, after hesitating a bit, asked: "Is Huaisu-ge coming to eat with us today?"
Hearing the news, Qiao Damai rubbed his stomach and said: "He's not coming? Then lets get to eating already, I'm starving to death over here."
Once he saw my indifference, he looked a bit strange, but no longer pursued the matter. Instead, he finally said something that gave me a tinge of distress.
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
Holding on to my seat, Qiao Damai asked me: "Is Professor Xiao free tonight?"
Qing Yichu's voice became calmer as he said: "I actually don't feel that tired, so what's fun to do in the city? I heard about a famous Peking roast duck restaurant located in one of the side streets.
I understood where Qiao Damai was coming from, he was definitely thinking about that host club, then from there he thought about that male prostitute. So when Qing Yichu said roast duckT/n: Duck is slang for male prostitute. Thinking of a "roast duck" place made him think of a host club and that infamous male escort mentioned earlier., he just let it all loose.
I obviously have no interest in living in France. I'm not familiar with the country, nor am I accustomed to the folks living there.
"He's someone who's so proud, yet he's willing to cook for you. Ever since he stayed at my aunt's and I saw him, he was in the study practising his calligraphy, reading books, playing chess with my uncle, or discussing something in his professional field. He was some who was like a cool breeze and a bright moon. I never thought he'd be the kind of person that would be going out to buy groceries to make dinner." It was the sort of sadness and loss one felt deep in their heart when it seems a though the god they hold dear in their heart decided to stay on earth for the sake of a mortal, and acts as an ordinary mortal themselves.
Not really caring which way or the other, I nodded. "Sure." What the guest wants to eat, the guest gets to eat.
I nodded, saying: "Probably?" I guess.
Qiao Damai waved his hand, showing no concern as he said: "Why the rush? Relax, when you leave I'm sure Li Tian will take you to go see your Huaisu-ge." Saying this, the waiter was there walking here and back laying out the dishes one by one, he looked at the table of dishes, in addition to the chef who came out to slice the duck while saying to us all: "Don't talk, eat first, eat up. Eating is the most important, other things can be left for later." Qing Yichu wanted to say more but Qiao Damai shut him own in two to three sentences. I saw his face go all red in anger but he was accustomed to pretending in front of people so it was pretty hard for him to throw a fit. It took a lot for me to not smile when I really wanted to. Calling Qiao Damai to come along simply couldn't have been a better choice.
Qiao Damai then said to Qing Yichu with a grin: "He should be there. After all, little bro, it is you first time coming to the country, so he has to eat dinner with you."
◈◇◈
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
Not waiting for Qing Yichu to mention it, I said to him: "Your Huaisu-ge will be returning early this evening so come over and have dinner with us, alright? It's been a while since you came from France and you guys haven't met."
N/A
I hummed then said: "The rain stopped, let's get going."
Qing Yichu's voice became calmer as he said: "I actually don't feel that tired, so what's fun to do in the city? I heard about a famous Peking roast duck restaurant located in one of the side streets.
The moment Qing Yichu said roast duck, Qiao Damai couldn't help but sputter before breaking out in laughter, earning a strange look from Qing Yichu.
That girl is Anchen-jie, she's Huaisu-ge's old girlfriend
"You can go take a bath first and we'll just wait for you in the living room." While checking the time, I told him.
"He's someone who's so proud, yet he's willing to cook for you. Ever since he stayed at my aunt's and I saw him, he was in the study practising his calligraphy, reading books, playing chess with my uncle, or discussing something in his professional field. He was some who was like a cool breeze and a bright moon. I never thought he'd be the kind of person that would be going out to buy groceries to make dinner." It was the sort of sadness and loss one felt deep in their heart when it seems a though the god they hold dear in their heart decided to stay on earth for the sake of a mortal, and acts as an ordinary mortal themselves.
The moment Qing Yichu said roast duck, Qiao Damai couldn't help but sputter before breaking out in laughter, earning a strange look from Qing Yichu.
The moment Qing Yichu said roast duck, Qiao Damai couldn't help but sputter before breaking out in laughter, earning a strange look from Qing Yichu.
Holding on to my seat, Qiao Damai asked me: "Is Professor Xiao free tonight?"
The day in question was one where I took him to an ancient city and we sat in a cafe to rest. Out of nowhere he pulled out his phone and showed me the screen so I could see a picture—a picture of Xiao Huaisu and some girl posing. The girl was smiling brightly, and the background of the picture looked like the one of the famous university in France where he studied his post-graduate degree, lush and green. In the photo, that girl looked much smaller than Xiao Huaisu, a pristine beauty much akin to a magnolia.
Qing Yichu didn't leave, and I saw his initial shock when he heard Xiao Huaisu's words, as if he never thought Xiao Huaisu would take the initiative to help do these things. He then stared at me in astonishment, the look on his face complex. Afterwards, he put on a fresh face as he asked Xiao Huaisu: "Huaisu-gu, you can cook?"
I understood where Qiao Damai was coming from, he was definitely thinking about that host club, then from there he thought about that male prostitute. So when Qing Yichu said roast duckT/n: Duck is slang for male prostitute. Thinking of a "roast duck" place made him think of a host club and that infamous male escort mentioned earlier., he just let it all loose.
On the way back to his place, Qiao Damai ignored Qing Yichu, leaving him hanging by the wayside, and roping me into a conversation about his recent goings-on at school, chatting up a storm. Qing Yichu never said anything, and I had no interest in taking the initiative to send any words his way. So, there, in the seat behind us, he busied himself, playing on his phone on his own, seeming to be at peace. Still chatting, Qiao then twisted his gaze to Qing Yichu in the backseat, his tone friendly as he asked: "Hey, little bro, why does your face look so pale? You're practically blue! Did you not get enough rest?"
Qiao Damai quickly restrained his laughter, his face now serious as he said: "That restaurant you mentioned, sounds good. We'll head to your place so we can in a little bit so you can get your self organised and later this evening we'll all go eat some roast duck. How about that, Li Tian?"
When Xiao Huaisu got home, it was Qing Yichu who went to open the door for him. He had been in the living room the entire time, not even taking the time to peruse the room's furnishings. Hearing the noise, I exited the kitchen, and was chopping some onions so my eyes were a burning. In his hands were some groceries, but upon seeing my reddened eyes he sent Qing Yichu a quick nod before striding towards me, pulling me to go wash my face as he said: "Didn't I tell you I'd make dinner tonight?" Then sniffing me, he asked: "Where you cutting onions?"
I had enough, and Qiao Damai had to head back for his classes too, he didn't have much time to waste here. So that guy, after stuffing his belly, quickly made his way back to school to look for his Du Zhuo.
"This wasn't because I got bored, I just figured if you wanted to make beef stir-fry it'd be better to chop stuff up beforehand," I explained.
Not really caring which way or the other, I nodded. "Sure." What the guest wants to eat, the guest gets to eat.
I obviously have no interest in living in France. I'm not familiar with the country, nor am I accustomed to the folks living there.
"This wasn't because I got bored, I just figured if you wanted to make beef stir-fry it'd be better to chop stuff up beforehand," I explained.
N/A
When I glancing at him in the mirror after this, it looked as though he was relieved.
When I glancing at him in the mirror after this, it looked as though he was relieved.
◈◇◈
Qiao Damai then said to Qing Yichu with a grin: "He should be there. After all, little bro, it is you first time coming to the country, so he has to eat dinner with you."
The guy who was always valiant and high in spirits, suddenly used such a defeated tone to speak to me, so at first was just left stunned. After that I thought about a while ago, and how Xiao Huaisu and I didn't do anything intimate that warranted a R-rating. So why did lose his nerve all of a sudden?
Not waiting for Qing Yichu to mention it, I said to him: "Your Huaisu-ge will be returning early this evening so come over and have dinner with us, alright? It's been a while since you came from France and you guys haven't met."
Because I knew of Qing Yichu's arrival beforehand, the house was readied by some workers, but it was usually kept clean so the inside was not that cold. Qing Yichu was escorted to the guest room, and from the looked of it, he appeared quite pleased. But once he found out he would not be staying with us, he former satisfaction was tinged with a bit of unhappiness. He wouldn't often get the chance to see Xiao Huaisu, so of course he would feel down. I pretended to not know anything, not mentioning this.
So with a warm voice seeming to contain a smile, he responded: "I am a bit tired."
But Qing Yichu did put stock in how he appeared towards others, and Qiao Damai brimmed with such zeal he probably figured it would not be good to say nothing in return.
That girl is Anchen-jie, she's Huaisu-ge's old girlfriend
"You can go take a bath first and we'll just wait for you in the living room." While checking the time, I told him.
To me, the girlfriend matter wasn't worth mentioning. Whether he had old girlfriends or not, or whether said ex-girlfriend now held a position at the same company and worked beside him is a non-issue because I trusted him. So I won't waste any breath at all in any of the sketchy things Qing Yichu spits out on purpose. I'd have to be a right fool to not see his deliberate attempts at provocation.
You really underestimate me too much...
You're trying to piss me off, huh? To make me think I'm someone else's stand-in?
N/A
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
And Qing Yichu hummed his acknowledgement with frost.
When we got there, we waited inside that Hutong Xiangli for around half an hour before receiving a call from Xiao Huaisu. Then after telling Qing Yichu Xiao Huaisu won't be coming and we should all just eat.
Clapping his hand, Qiao Damai then said in return: "It's late today too, so I think it'd be better to take you out to look around tomorrow. So when you get home, make sure to get a lot of rest, alright? Get yourself adjusted to the time difference and catch up on some sleep."
Taking one of the pears, Qing Yichu said: "Huaisu-ge actually remembers I like eating snow pears."
I nodded, saying: "Probably?" I guess.
N/A
If he doesn't go looking to make trouble himself I wasn't going to go out of my way to make him uncomfortable.
After Xiao Huaisu was done wiping me, he said: "To me it looks like you don't want to be here alone with him." Following up with a look that said: 'why are you putting yourself through this, huh?'
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
Letting out a friendly chuckle, I asked: "Are you ready to head back?"
Qiao Damai's words made Qing Yichu's mouth fall open but no words made their exit. But having held his tongue for a good while, he then said with a stern smile: "But I think given how taxing this trip here was it's the proper time to meet with Huaisu-ge."
I had enough, and Qiao Damai had to head back for his classes too, he didn't have much time to waste here. So that guy, after stuffing his belly, quickly made his way back to school to look for his Du Zhuo.
I made my way back to the living room where Qiao Damai was sitting on the sofa flipping through a newspaper that was on the table. Seeing me come back, he screwed up his lips and said: "When you first asked me to come along I thought it was a good thing. Why did you invite such a 'young master'? He's so stuck up."
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
Letting out a friendly chuckle, I asked: "Are you ready to head back?"
Qing Yichu's eyes shone at the news, but just for a bit as he covered it up then said calmly: "Fine."
Holding on to my seat, Qiao Damai asked me: "Is Professor Xiao free tonight?"
It was Xiao Huaisu who didn't show up. Don't blame, it seriously wasn't my fault.
Disdainfully, I replied: "I don't he took too kindly to your teasing, don't you think?"
I nodded, saying: "Probably?" I guess.
Letting out a chuckle, Qiao Damai said nothing in return.
But not knowing whether to laugh or cry, Xiao Huaisu said: "Who said I was acting along with you? Why are you cutting onions in your free time? Your eyes are all runny because of it." I was embarrassed. He really was worried about me and I thought he was going along with me to put on a deliberate show of affection in front that single guy.
Qiao Damai then said to Qing Yichu with a grin: "He should be there. After all, little bro, it is you first time coming to the country, so he has to eat dinner with you."
Qing Yichu had been waiting with a face full of expectation, so when he heard this, he sent a gaze a like frozen dagger right at me, as if I was the one who got in his way.
Qing Yichu's eyes shone at the news, but just for a bit as he covered it up then said calmly: "Fine."
Clapping his hand, Qiao Damai then said in return: "It's late today too, so I think it'd be better to take you out to look around tomorrow. So when you get home, make sure to get a lot of rest, alright? Get yourself adjusted to the time difference and catch up on some sleep."
After waiting for him to get ready, it was almost six in the evening. We got back into the car and headed to that Hutong Xiangli place located on the side-street to eat.
Pouring on the flattery, I let out a chuckle, saying, "Yes, absolutely. They were bought especially for you."
When we got there, we waited inside that Hutong Xiangli for around half an hour before receiving a call from Xiao Huaisu. Then after telling Qing Yichu Xiao Huaisu won't be coming and we should all just eat.
Although I knew the reason Qing Yichu made his trip was most likely to meet Xiao Huaisu, because there was someone between us, he couldn't say a thing. He was stunned Qiao Damai and I actually took him around to see the historical sights and scenic spots of the city and the suburbs, to eat delicious snacks (our favourite places). We mucked about like this for seven or maybe eight days, and Qing Yichu was no longer fond of pretending, he couldn't pretend any longer.
Qing Yichu had been waiting with a face full of expectation, so when he heard this, he sent a gaze a like frozen dagger right at me, as if I was the one who got in his way.
I had enough, and Qiao Damai had to head back for his classes too, he didn't have much time to waste here. So that guy, after stuffing his belly, quickly made his way back to school to look for his Du Zhuo.
I obviously have no interest in living in France. I'm not familiar with the country, nor am I accustomed to the folks living there.
Letting out a friendly chuckle, I asked: "Are you ready to head back?"
It was Xiao Huaisu who didn't show up. Don't blame, it seriously wasn't my fault.
Qing Yichu's eyes shone at the news, but just for a bit as he covered it up then said calmly: "Fine."
Hearing the news, Qiao Damai rubbed his stomach and said: "He's not coming? Then lets get to eating already, I'm starving to death over here."
Qing Yichu then looked at me, calm and composed, as he said: "Do you think you've won?"
As if he hadn't sent me an icy glare, Qing Yichu pulled his lips up in a smile as he then asked: "Can Huaisu-ge really not come?"
This actually shocked me somewhat, given I never knew Xiao Huaisu had a girlfriend. But seeing he was at that age, him having a girlfriend or two was perfectly normal. The shock I felt did not show on my face, however, as I laughed disapprovingly and said: "Really? He never mentioned it."
While asking the waiter to serve the dishes we had ordered earlier, I casually responded to Qing Yichu: "He's been busier that normal these past days. During your trip here, it's possible only your Qiao-ge and I would be the ones accompanying you." Forgive me, but your expectations being dashed does give me a spark of happiness, so what can I do?
Taking one of the pears, Qing Yichu said: "Huaisu-ge actually remembers I like eating snow pears."
Qiao Damai then said disapprovingly: "Yichu-didi, didn't you come here to enjoy the cultural landmarks and scenic spots of this country? Before you came here you must've known Professor Xiao was a very busy person, so how possible would it be for him to be here with us? Besides, if Professor Xiao were here, we were afraid you'd feel uncomfortable, so isn't that quite considerate on our part? Don't go feeling too touched now, we're just doing what we should do."
You really underestimate me too much...
Tiny note: -didi/di = little brother | -jie = older sister | -ge = older brother.
The tone he voice then held, was one sounding weary, as he said in a whisper: "I really don't understand... why did Huaisu-ge choose to stay with you." It also carried reluctance.
Qiao Damai's words made Qing Yichu's mouth fall open but no words made their exit. But having held his tongue for a good while, he then said with a stern smile: "But I think given how taxing this trip here was it's the proper time to meet with Huaisu-ge."
He then whispered: "That girl is Anchen-jie, she was Huaisi-ge's former girlfriend."
When facing Xiao Huaisu, Qing Yichu's manners were even more calm and composed, so hearing his response, Qing Yichu gave me an envious smile as he said: "How wonderful." If I didn't know better, I think we were good brothers.
As if he hadn't sent me an icy glare, Qing Yichu pulled his lips up in a smile as he then asked: "Can Huaisu-ge really not come?"
He then whispered: "That girl is Anchen-jie, she was Huaisi-ge's former girlfriend."
On the way back to his place, Qiao Damai ignored Qing Yichu, leaving him hanging by the wayside, and roping me into a conversation about his recent goings-on at school, chatting up a storm. Qing Yichu never said anything, and I had no interest in taking the initiative to send any words his way. So, there, in the seat behind us, he busied himself, playing on his phone on his own, seeming to be at peace. Still chatting, Qiao then twisted his gaze to Qing Yichu in the backseat, his tone friendly as he asked: "Hey, little bro, why does your face look so pale? You're practically blue! Did you not get enough rest?"
Qiao Damai waved his hand, showing no concern as he said: "Why the rush? Relax, when you leave I'm sure Li Tian will take you to go see your Huaisu-ge." Saying this, the waiter was there walking here and back laying out the dishes one by one, he looked at the table of dishes, in addition to the chef who came out to slice the duck while saying to us all: "Don't talk, eat first, eat up. Eating is the most important, other things can be left for later." Qing Yichu wanted to say more but Qiao Damai shut him own in two to three sentences. I saw his face go all red in anger but he was accustomed to pretending in front of people so it was pretty hard for him to throw a fit. It took a lot for me to not smile when I really wanted to. Calling Qiao Damai to come along simply couldn't have been a better choice.
Because I knew of Qing Yichu's arrival beforehand, the house was readied by some workers, but it was usually kept clean so the inside was not that cold. Qing Yichu was escorted to the guest room, and from the looked of it, he appeared quite pleased. But once he found out he would not be staying with us, he former satisfaction was tinged with a bit of unhappiness. He wouldn't often get the chance to see Xiao Huaisu, so of course he would feel down. I pretended to not know anything, not mentioning this.
To which, I sent him one back that said: 'it's expected.' Following a moment of lovey-dovey-ness, I then remembered there was a guest here who couldn't be left all by his lonesome. So completely forgetting what just happened to the Qing Yichu left alone in the living room, carrying some ashed fruits, I entered the living room with a grin, resting them down on a table as I implored him: "Have some fruit, your Huaisu-ge bought them." I pretended that I knew nothing, understood nothing, that he was simply a guest in my living room I was entertaining. Just overflowing and beaming with joy at the guy making futile attempts to steal my husband.
But... I also don't want to stand in Xiao Huaisu's way in taking control of Qianhua's largest group. And since Xiao Renzong wishes for him to return, Xiao Huaisu should be going back, right? So why hasn't he ever mentioned anything to me? Is he waiting until after our second child is born?
Although I knew the reason Qing Yichu made his trip was most likely to meet Xiao Huaisu, because there was someone between us, he couldn't say a thing. He was stunned Qiao Damai and I actually took him around to see the historical sights and scenic spots of the city and the suburbs, to eat delicious snacks (our favourite places). We mucked about like this for seven or maybe eight days, and Qing Yichu was no longer fond of pretending, he couldn't pretend any longer.
While asking the waiter to serve the dishes we had ordered earlier, I casually responded to Qing Yichu: "He's been busier that normal these past days. During your trip here, it's possible only your Qiao-ge and I would be the ones accompanying you." Forgive me, but your expectations being dashed does give me a spark of happiness, so what can I do?
But not knowing whether to laugh or cry, Xiao Huaisu said: "Who said I was acting along with you? Why are you cutting onions in your free time? Your eyes are all runny because of it." I was embarrassed. He really was worried about me and I thought he was going along with me to put on a deliberate show of affection in front that single guy.
Qing Yichu's eyes shone at the news, but just for a bit as he covered it up then said calmly: "Fine."
But that last bit he mentioned, about Xiao Renzong wanting Xiao Huaisu to return to France, did manage to leave me somewhat unnerved.
Because I knew of Qing Yichu's arrival beforehand, the house was readied by some workers, but it was usually kept clean so the inside was not that cold. Qing Yichu was escorted to the guest room, and from the looked of it, he appeared quite pleased. But once he found out he would not be staying with us, he former satisfaction was tinged with a bit of unhappiness. He wouldn't often get the chance to see Xiao Huaisu, so of course he would feel down. I pretended to not know anything, not mentioning this.
I had enough, and Qiao Damai had to head back for his classes too, he didn't have much time to waste here. So that guy, after stuffing his belly, quickly made his way back to school to look for his Du Zhuo.
Not waiting for Qing Yichu to mention it, I said to him: "Your Huaisu-ge will be returning early this evening so come over and have dinner with us, alright? It's been a while since you came from France and you guys haven't met."
◈◇◈
N/A
Qiao Damai then said to Qing Yichu with a grin: "He should be there. After all, little bro, it is you first time coming to the country, so he has to eat dinner with you."
Clapping his hand, Qiao Damai then said in return: "It's late today too, so I think it'd be better to take you out to look around tomorrow. So when you get home, make sure to get a lot of rest, alright? Get yourself adjusted to the time difference and catch up on some sleep."
Not waiting for Qing Yichu to mention it, I said to him: "Your Huaisu-ge will be returning early this evening so come over and have dinner with us, alright? It's been a while since you came from France and you guys haven't met."
If he doesn't go looking to make trouble himself I wasn't going to go out of my way to make him uncomfortable.
Because I knew of Qing Yichu's arrival beforehand, the house was readied by some workers, but it was usually kept clean so the inside was not that cold. Qing Yichu was escorted to the guest room, and from the looked of it, he appeared quite pleased. But once he found out he would not be staying with us, he former satisfaction was tinged with a bit of unhappiness. He wouldn't often get the chance to see Xiao Huaisu, so of course he would feel down. I pretended to not know anything, not mentioning this.
N/A
Qing Yichu's eyes shone at the news, but just for a bit as he covered it up then said calmly: "Fine."
Not really caring which way or the other, I nodded. "Sure." What the guest wants to eat, the guest gets to eat.
"You can go take a bath first and we'll just wait for you in the living room." While checking the time, I told him.
I understood where Qiao Damai was coming from, he was definitely thinking about that host club, then from there he thought about that male prostitute. So when Qing Yichu said roast duckT/n: Duck is slang for male prostitute. Thinking of a "roast duck" place made him think of a host club and that infamous male escort mentioned earlier., he just let it all loose.
When Xiao Huaisu got home, it was Qing Yichu who went to open the door for him. He had been in the living room the entire time, not even taking the time to peruse the room's furnishings. Hearing the noise, I exited the kitchen, and was chopping some onions so my eyes were a burning. In his hands were some groceries, but upon seeing my reddened eyes he sent Qing Yichu a quick nod before striding towards me, pulling me to go wash my face as he said: "Didn't I tell you I'd make dinner tonight?" Then sniffing me, he asked: "Where you cutting onions?"
Letting out a chuckle, Qiao Damai said nothing in return.
Not waiting for Qing Yichu to mention it, I said to him: "Your Huaisu-ge will be returning early this evening so come over and have dinner with us, alright? It's been a while since you came from France and you guys haven't met."
The moment Qing Yichu said roast duck, Qiao Damai couldn't help but sputter before breaking out in laughter, earning a strange look from Qing Yichu.
"My Uncle is planning to make Huaisu-ge return to the French branch of the company, so it seems they'll be able to meet each other often then."
◈◇◈
Qing Yichu closed the door, walking over wearing a smile, wanting to help Xiao Huaisu with the things in his hand. Xiao Huaisu looked at him, avoiding him as he tried to take the stuff in his hands then said with a smile: "Yichu, it's rare for you to be here in the country, you should go sit and relax, I'll take care of this."
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
Qing Yichu didn't leave, and I saw his initial shock when he heard Xiao Huaisu's words, as if he never thought Xiao Huaisu would take the initiative to help do these things. He then stared at me in astonishment, the look on his face complex. Afterwards, he put on a fresh face as he asked Xiao Huaisu: "Huaisu-gu, you can cook?"
Qing Yichu then looked at me smilingly, "Anchen-jie came to this city last year once, as a representative of Qianhua's French branch. I heard she came here again this year, arriving a month ago in the city, she's been here for a while, so haven't you seen her? She's probably already met up with Huaisu-ge." After ruminating a bit, he then added: "It looks like... he never told you anything about this, hm?"
I hummed then said: "The rain stopped, let's get going."
If he doesn't go looking to make trouble himself I wasn't going to go out of my way to make him uncomfortable.
Qiao Damai waved his hand, showing no concern as he said: "Why the rush? Relax, when you leave I'm sure Li Tian will take you to go see your Huaisu-ge." Saying this, the waiter was there walking here and back laying out the dishes one by one, he looked at the table of dishes, in addition to the chef who came out to slice the duck while saying to us all: "Don't talk, eat first, eat up. Eating is the most important, other things can be left for later." Qing Yichu wanted to say more but Qiao Damai shut him own in two to three sentences. I saw his face go all red in anger but he was accustomed to pretending in front of people so it was pretty hard for him to throw a fit. It took a lot for me to not smile when I really wanted to. Calling Qiao Damai to come along simply couldn't have been a better choice.
Qiao Damai quickly restrained his laughter, his face now serious as he said: "That restaurant you mentioned, sounds good. We'll head to your place so we can in a little bit so you can get your self organised and later this evening we'll all go eat some roast duck. How about that, Li Tian?"
Xiao Huaisu led me into the kitchen by the hand as if there was no one else there, resting the groceries aside, he examined my eyes, while doing so, he replied to Qing Yichu without much care: "For him, I attended cooking classes for a few days for him."
Letting out a friendly chuckle, I asked: "Are you ready to head back?"
When facing Xiao Huaisu, Qing Yichu's manners were even more calm and composed, so hearing his response, Qing Yichu gave me an envious smile as he said: "How wonderful." If I didn't know better, I think we were good brothers.
Qiao Damai then said disapprovingly: "Yichu-didi, didn't you come here to enjoy the cultural landmarks and scenic spots of this country? Before you came here you must've known Professor Xiao was a very busy person, so how possible would it be for him to be here with us? Besides, if Professor Xiao were here, we were afraid you'd feel uncomfortable, so isn't that quite considerate on our part? Don't go feeling too touched now, we're just doing what we should do."
I hummed then said: "The rain stopped, let's get going."
I obviously have no interest in living in France. I'm not familiar with the country, nor am I accustomed to the folks living there.
Hearing me say this, Qing Yichu could be described as disappointed and unwilling.
But... I also don't want to stand in Xiao Huaisu's way in taking control of Qianhua's largest group. And since Xiao Renzong wishes for him to return, Xiao Huaisu should be going back, right? So why hasn't he ever mentioned anything to me? Is he waiting until after our second child is born?
I let Xiao Huaisu wipe my eyes then my hands with a wet towel, and Qing Yichu went back to the living room. When he was gone, I gave Xiao Huaisu a thumbs up, saying: "Don't you think we should be awarded an Oscar for that?"
Hearing me say this, Qing Yichu could be described as disappointed and unwilling.
This actually shocked me somewhat, given I never knew Xiao Huaisu had a girlfriend. But seeing he was at that age, him having a girlfriend or two was perfectly normal. The shock I felt did not show on my face, however, as I laughed disapprovingly and said: "Really? He never mentioned it."
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
But not knowing whether to laugh or cry, Xiao Huaisu said: "Who said I was acting along with you? Why are you cutting onions in your free time? Your eyes are all runny because of it." I was embarrassed. He really was worried about me and I thought he was going along with me to put on a deliberate show of affection in front that single guy.
I let Xiao Huaisu wipe my eyes then my hands with a wet towel, and Qing Yichu went back to the living room. When he was gone, I gave Xiao Huaisu a thumbs up, saying: "Don't you think we should be awarded an Oscar for that?"
"This wasn't because I got bored, I just figured if you wanted to make beef stir-fry it'd be better to chop stuff up beforehand," I explained.
I honestly shook my head while saying: "Sorry, but I never thought I was competing with anyone." Good lord, hasn't this already been cleared up? Dude, aren't you tired? Why don't you just act like a good little tourist, huh?
He then whispered: "That girl is Anchen-jie, she was Huaisi-ge's former girlfriend."
To me, the girlfriend matter wasn't worth mentioning. Whether he had old girlfriends or not, or whether said ex-girlfriend now held a position at the same company and worked beside him is a non-issue because I trusted him. So I won't waste any breath at all in any of the sketchy things Qing Yichu spits out on purpose. I'd have to be a right fool to not see his deliberate attempts at provocation.
After Xiao Huaisu was done wiping me, he said: "To me it looks like you don't want to be here alone with him." Following up with a look that said: 'why are you putting yourself through this, huh?'
Qing Yichu stared at me deeply for a bit, then seeing no noticeable changes in my expression, he finally expressed his disappointed as he sneered: "You really are as calm as a cucumber, aren't you? Ha."
Letting out a chuckle, Qiao Damai said nothing in return.
I had enough, and Qiao Damai had to head back for his classes too, he didn't have much time to waste here. So that guy, after stuffing his belly, quickly made his way back to school to look for his Du Zhuo.
After Xiao Huaisu was done wiping me, he said: "To me it looks like you don't want to be here alone with him." Following up with a look that said: 'why are you putting yourself through this, huh?'
Because I knew of Qing Yichu's arrival beforehand, the house was readied by some workers, but it was usually kept clean so the inside was not that cold. Qing Yichu was escorted to the guest room, and from the looked of it, he appeared quite pleased. But once he found out he would not be staying with us, he former satisfaction was tinged with a bit of unhappiness. He wouldn't often get the chance to see Xiao Huaisu, so of course he would feel down. I pretended to not know anything, not mentioning this.
To which, I sent him one back that said: 'it's expected.' Following a moment of lovey-dovey-ness, I then remembered there was a guest here who couldn't be left all by his lonesome. So completely forgetting what just happened to the Qing Yichu left alone in the living room, carrying some ashed fruits, I entered the living room with a grin, resting them down on a table as I implored him: "Have some fruit, your Huaisu-ge bought them." I pretended that I knew nothing, understood nothing, that he was simply a guest in my living room I was entertaining. Just overflowing and beaming with joy at the guy making futile attempts to steal my husband.
Qing Yichu didn't leave, and I saw his initial shock when he heard Xiao Huaisu's words, as if he never thought Xiao Huaisu would take the initiative to help do these things. He then stared at me in astonishment, the look on his face complex. Afterwards, he put on a fresh face as he asked Xiao Huaisu: "Huaisu-gu, you can cook?"
Holding on to my seat, Qiao Damai asked me: "Is Professor Xiao free tonight?"
He then whispered: "That girl is Anchen-jie, she was Huaisi-ge's former girlfriend."
The guy who was always valiant and high in spirits, suddenly used such a defeated tone to speak to me, so at first was just left stunned. After that I thought about a while ago, and how Xiao Huaisu and I didn't do anything intimate that warranted a R-rating. So why did lose his nerve all of a sudden?
While asking the waiter to serve the dishes we had ordered earlier, I casually responded to Qing Yichu: "He's been busier that normal these past days. During your trip here, it's possible only your Qiao-ge and I would be the ones accompanying you." Forgive me, but your expectations being dashed does give me a spark of happiness, so what can I do?
Taking one of the pears, Qing Yichu said: "Huaisu-ge actually remembers I like eating snow pears."
When facing Xiao Huaisu, Qing Yichu's manners were even more calm and composed, so hearing his response, Qing Yichu gave me an envious smile as he said: "How wonderful." If I didn't know better, I think we were good brothers.
Pouring on the flattery, I let out a chuckle, saying, "Yes, absolutely. They were bought especially for you."
I made my way back to the living room where Qiao Damai was sitting on the sofa flipping through a newspaper that was on the table. Seeing me come back, he screwed up his lips and said: "When you first asked me to come along I thought it was a good thing. Why did you invite such a 'young master'? He's so stuck up."
Seeing this reaction of mine, Qing Yichu didn't appear all that pleased. The fruit in his hand remained uneaten, and the complicated expression he had a while ago made a reappearance.
Hearing this, Qing Yichu, after hesitating a bit, asked: "Is Huaisu-ge coming to eat with us today?"
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
While asking the waiter to serve the dishes we had ordered earlier, I casually responded to Qing Yichu: "He's been busier that normal these past days. During your trip here, it's possible only your Qiao-ge and I would be the ones accompanying you." Forgive me, but your expectations being dashed does give me a spark of happiness, so what can I do?
The tone he voice then held, was one sounding weary, as he said in a whisper: "I really don't understand... why did Huaisu-ge choose to stay with you." It also carried reluctance.
I hummed then said: "The rain stopped, let's get going."
Not really caring which way or the other, I nodded. "Sure." What the guest wants to eat, the guest gets to eat.
I let Xiao Huaisu wipe my eyes then my hands with a wet towel, and Qing Yichu went back to the living room. When he was gone, I gave Xiao Huaisu a thumbs up, saying: "Don't you think we should be awarded an Oscar for that?"
On the way back to his place, Qiao Damai ignored Qing Yichu, leaving him hanging by the wayside, and roping me into a conversation about his recent goings-on at school, chatting up a storm. Qing Yichu never said anything, and I had no interest in taking the initiative to send any words his way. So, there, in the seat behind us, he busied himself, playing on his phone on his own, seeming to be at peace. Still chatting, Qiao then twisted his gaze to Qing Yichu in the backseat, his tone friendly as he asked: "Hey, little bro, why does your face look so pale? You're practically blue! Did you not get enough rest?"
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
The guy who was always valiant and high in spirits, suddenly used such a defeated tone to speak to me, so at first was just left stunned. After that I thought about a while ago, and how Xiao Huaisu and I didn't do anything intimate that warranted a R-rating. So why did lose his nerve all of a sudden?
Qing Yichu had been waiting with a face full of expectation, so when he heard this, he sent a gaze a like frozen dagger right at me, as if I was the one who got in his way.
"He's someone who's so proud, yet he's willing to cook for you. Ever since he stayed at my aunt's and I saw him, he was in the study practising his calligraphy, reading books, playing chess with my uncle, or discussing something in his professional field. He was some who was like a cool breeze and a bright moon. I never thought he'd be the kind of person that would be going out to buy groceries to make dinner." It was the sort of sadness and loss one felt deep in their heart when it seems a though the god they hold dear in their heart decided to stay on earth for the sake of a mortal, and acts as an ordinary mortal themselves.
After waiting for him to get ready, it was almost six in the evening. We got back into the car and headed to that Hutong Xiangli place located on the side-street to eat.
I took a poorly timed bite out of a snow pear, it made a crunch, and he couldn't seem to bear allowing his eyes to meet my own.
I understood where Qiao Damai was coming from, he was definitely thinking about that host club, then from there he thought about that male prostitute. So when Qing Yichu said roast duckT/n: Duck is slang for male prostitute. Thinking of a "roast duck" place made him think of a host club and that infamous male escort mentioned earlier., he just let it all loose.
◈◇◈
When Xiao Huaisu got home, it was Qing Yichu who went to open the door for him. He had been in the living room the entire time, not even taking the time to peruse the room's furnishings. Hearing the noise, I exited the kitchen, and was chopping some onions so my eyes were a burning. In his hands were some groceries, but upon seeing my reddened eyes he sent Qing Yichu a quick nod before striding towards me, pulling me to go wash my face as he said: "Didn't I tell you I'd make dinner tonight?" Then sniffing me, he asked: "Where you cutting onions?"
While eating the meal Xiao Huaisu made himself, Qing Yichu as unusually quiet. I thought the words he said meant he had finally resigned himself, never expecting that before he went back he would make me feel uneasy.
Not waiting for Qing Yichu to mention it, I said to him: "Your Huaisu-ge will be returning early this evening so come over and have dinner with us, alright? It's been a while since you came from France and you guys haven't met."
Without feeling apologetic, I then said to him: "Sorry, but that person you're talking about is someone I've never known..." All I know is the person who practices Kong Fu well enough to punish a Shaolin layman like me into submission. The guy who went out of his way so I could learn from him. The guy who when he found cigarettes in my backpack, would make me work on exam papers until I cried out in tears, until it was late at night, until I was so hungry I couldn't write any longer, but would make me something to eat, watch me as I ate it all, then continued to make me write. He wasn't human at all.
Once he saw my indifference, he looked a bit strange, but no longer pursued the matter. Instead, he finally said something that gave me a tinge of distress.
I honestly shook my head while saying: "Sorry, but I never thought I was competing with anyone." Good lord, hasn't this already been cleared up? Dude, aren't you tired? Why don't you just act like a good little tourist, huh?
Hearing me say this, Qing Yichu could be described as disappointed and unwilling.
I obviously have no interest in living in France. I'm not familiar with the country, nor am I accustomed to the folks living there.
When facing Xiao Huaisu, Qing Yichu's manners were even more calm and composed, so hearing his response, Qing Yichu gave me an envious smile as he said: "How wonderful." If I didn't know better, I think we were good brothers.
Hearing me say this, Qing Yichu could be described as disappointed and unwilling.
The guy who was always valiant and high in spirits, suddenly used such a defeated tone to speak to me, so at first was just left stunned. After that I thought about a while ago, and how Xiao Huaisu and I didn't do anything intimate that warranted a R-rating. So why did lose his nerve all of a sudden?
While eating the meal Xiao Huaisu made himself, Qing Yichu as unusually quiet. I thought the words he said meant he had finally resigned himself, never expecting that before he went back he would make me feel uneasy.
N/A
Because I knew of Qing Yichu's arrival beforehand, the house was readied by some workers, but it was usually kept clean so the inside was not that cold. Qing Yichu was escorted to the guest room, and from the looked of it, he appeared quite pleased. But once he found out he would not be staying with us, he former satisfaction was tinged with a bit of unhappiness. He wouldn't often get the chance to see Xiao Huaisu, so of course he would feel down. I pretended to not know anything, not mentioning this.
Taking one of the pears, Qing Yichu said: "Huaisu-ge actually remembers I like eating snow pears."
Seeing this reaction of mine, Qing Yichu didn't appear all that pleased. The fruit in his hand remained uneaten, and the complicated expression he had a while ago made a reappearance.
Hearing me say this, Qing Yichu could be described as disappointed and unwilling.
The day in question was one where I took him to an ancient city and we sat in a cafe to rest. Out of nowhere he pulled out his phone and showed me the screen so I could see a picture—a picture of Xiao Huaisu and some girl posing. The girl was smiling brightly, and the background of the picture looked like the one of the famous university in France where he studied his post-graduate degree, lush and green. In the photo, that girl looked much smaller than Xiao Huaisu, a pristine beauty much akin to a magnolia.
To which, I sent him one back that said: 'it's expected.' Following a moment of lovey-dovey-ness, I then remembered there was a guest here who couldn't be left all by his lonesome. So completely forgetting what just happened to the Qing Yichu left alone in the living room, carrying some ashed fruits, I entered the living room with a grin, resting them down on a table as I implored him: "Have some fruit, your Huaisu-ge bought them." I pretended that I knew nothing, understood nothing, that he was simply a guest in my living room I was entertaining. Just overflowing and beaming with joy at the guy making futile attempts to steal my husband.
But not knowing whether to laugh or cry, Xiao Huaisu said: "Who said I was acting along with you? Why are you cutting onions in your free time? Your eyes are all runny because of it." I was embarrassed. He really was worried about me and I thought he was going along with me to put on a deliberate show of affection in front that single guy.
Qing Yichu closed the door, walking over wearing a smile, wanting to help Xiao Huaisu with the things in his hand. Xiao Huaisu looked at him, avoiding him as he tried to take the stuff in his hands then said with a smile: "Yichu, it's rare for you to be here in the country, you should go sit and relax, I'll take care of this."
Qing Yichu then looked at me, calm and composed, as he said: "Do you think you've won?"
But Qing Yichu did put stock in how he appeared towards others, and Qiao Damai brimmed with such zeal he probably figured it would not be good to say nothing in return.
Tiny note: -didi/di = little brother | -jie = older sister | -ge = older brother.
Hearing this, Qing Yichu, after hesitating a bit, asked: "Is Huaisu-ge coming to eat with us today?"
I honestly shook my head while saying: "Sorry, but I never thought I was competing with anyone." Good lord, hasn't this already been cleared up? Dude, aren't you tired? Why don't you just act like a good little tourist, huh?
As if he hadn't sent me an icy glare, Qing Yichu pulled his lips up in a smile as he then asked: "Can Huaisu-ge really not come?"
Once he saw my indifference, he looked a bit strange, but no longer pursued the matter. Instead, he finally said something that gave me a tinge of distress.
I had enough, and Qiao Damai had to head back for his classes too, he didn't have much time to waste here. So that guy, after stuffing his belly, quickly made his way back to school to look for his Du Zhuo.
Xiao Huaisu led me into the kitchen by the hand as if there was no one else there, resting the groceries aside, he examined my eyes, while doing so, he replied to Qing Yichu without much care: "For him, I attended cooking classes for a few days for him."
Qiao Damai then said to Qing Yichu with a grin: "He should be there. After all, little bro, it is you first time coming to the country, so he has to eat dinner with you."
He then whispered: "That girl is Anchen-jie, she was Huaisi-ge's former girlfriend."
Clapping his hand, Qiao Damai then said in return: "It's late today too, so I think it'd be better to take you out to look around tomorrow. So when you get home, make sure to get a lot of rest, alright? Get yourself adjusted to the time difference and catch up on some sleep."
Qiao Damai then said disapprovingly: "Yichu-didi, didn't you come here to enjoy the cultural landmarks and scenic spots of this country? Before you came here you must've known Professor Xiao was a very busy person, so how possible would it be for him to be here with us? Besides, if Professor Xiao were here, we were afraid you'd feel uncomfortable, so isn't that quite considerate on our part? Don't go feeling too touched now, we're just doing what we should do."
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
Tiny note: -didi/di = little brother | -jie = older sister | -ge = older brother.
Xiao Huaisu led me into the kitchen by the hand as if there was no one else there, resting the groceries aside, he examined my eyes, while doing so, he replied to Qing Yichu without much care: "For him, I attended cooking classes for a few days for him."
This actually shocked me somewhat, given I never knew Xiao Huaisu had a girlfriend. But seeing he was at that age, him having a girlfriend or two was perfectly normal. The shock I felt did not show on my face, however, as I laughed disapprovingly and said: "Really? He never mentioned it."
Without feeling apologetic, I then said to him: "Sorry, but that person you're talking about is someone I've never known..." All I know is the person who practices Kong Fu well enough to punish a Shaolin layman like me into submission. The guy who went out of his way so I could learn from him. The guy who when he found cigarettes in my backpack, would make me work on exam papers until I cried out in tears, until it was late at night, until I was so hungry I couldn't write any longer, but would make me something to eat, watch me as I ate it all, then continued to make me write. He wasn't human at all.
Qing Yichu had been waiting with a face full of expectation, so when he heard this, he sent a gaze a like frozen dagger right at me, as if I was the one who got in his way.
"He's someone who's so proud, yet he's willing to cook for you. Ever since he stayed at my aunt's and I saw him, he was in the study practising his calligraphy, reading books, playing chess with my uncle, or discussing something in his professional field. He was some who was like a cool breeze and a bright moon. I never thought he'd be the kind of person that would be going out to buy groceries to make dinner." It was the sort of sadness and loss one felt deep in their heart when it seems a though the god they hold dear in their heart decided to stay on earth for the sake of a mortal, and acts as an ordinary mortal themselves.
I let Xiao Huaisu wipe my eyes then my hands with a wet towel, and Qing Yichu went back to the living room. When he was gone, I gave Xiao Huaisu a thumbs up, saying: "Don't you think we should be awarded an Oscar for that?"
The tone he voice then held, was one sounding weary, as he said in a whisper: "I really don't understand... why did Huaisu-ge choose to stay with you." It also carried reluctance.
Qing Yichu then looked at me smilingly, "Anchen-jie came to this city last year once, as a representative of Qianhua's French branch. I heard she came here again this year, arriving a month ago in the city, she's been here for a while, so haven't you seen her? She's probably already met up with Huaisu-ge." After ruminating a bit, he then added: "It looks like... he never told you anything about this, hm?"
"My Uncle is planning to make Huaisu-ge return to the French branch of the company, so it seems they'll be able to meet each other often then."
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
Tiny note: -didi/di = little brother | -jie = older sister | -ge = older brother.
Qing Yichu stared at me deeply for a bit, then seeing no noticeable changes in my expression, he finally expressed his disappointed as he sneered: "You really are as calm as a cucumber, aren't you? Ha."
While eating the meal Xiao Huaisu made himself, Qing Yichu as unusually quiet. I thought the words he said meant he had finally resigned himself, never expecting that before he went back he would make me feel uneasy.
You're trying to piss me off, huh? To make me think I'm someone else's stand-in?
And Qing Yichu hummed his acknowledgement with frost.
So with a warm voice seeming to contain a smile, he responded: "I am a bit tired."
You're trying to piss me off, huh? To make me think I'm someone else's stand-in?
Qing Yichu then looked at me smilingly, "Anchen-jie came to this city last year once, as a representative of Qianhua's French branch. I heard she came here again this year, arriving a month ago in the city, she's been here for a while, so haven't you seen her? She's probably already met up with Huaisu-ge." After ruminating a bit, he then added: "It looks like... he never told you anything about this, hm?"
When Xiao Huaisu got home, it was Qing Yichu who went to open the door for him. He had been in the living room the entire time, not even taking the time to peruse the room's furnishings. Hearing the noise, I exited the kitchen, and was chopping some onions so my eyes were a burning. In his hands were some groceries, but upon seeing my reddened eyes he sent Qing Yichu a quick nod before striding towards me, pulling me to go wash my face as he said: "Didn't I tell you I'd make dinner tonight?" Then sniffing me, he asked: "Where you cutting onions?"
You really underestimate me too much...
The day in question was one where I took him to an ancient city and we sat in a cafe to rest. Out of nowhere he pulled out his phone and showed me the screen so I could see a picture—a picture of Xiao Huaisu and some girl posing. The girl was smiling brightly, and the background of the picture looked like the one of the famous university in France where he studied his post-graduate degree, lush and green. In the photo, that girl looked much smaller than Xiao Huaisu, a pristine beauty much akin to a magnolia.
But not knowing whether to laugh or cry, Xiao Huaisu said: "Who said I was acting along with you? Why are you cutting onions in your free time? Your eyes are all runny because of it." I was embarrassed. He really was worried about me and I thought he was going along with me to put on a deliberate show of affection in front that single guy.
While asking the waiter to serve the dishes we had ordered earlier, I casually responded to Qing Yichu: "He's been busier that normal these past days. During your trip here, it's possible only your Qiao-ge and I would be the ones accompanying you." Forgive me, but your expectations being dashed does give me a spark of happiness, so what can I do?
You really underestimate me too much...
I was the one driving, so using the rear-view mirror, I took a glance at the alright-looking Qing Yichu. Qiao Damai's ability to tell lies seems to been perfected by some.
Letting out a friendly chuckle, I asked: "Are you ready to head back?"
The tone he voice then held, was one sounding weary, as he said in a whisper: "I really don't understand... why did Huaisu-ge choose to stay with you." It also carried reluctance.
Tiny note: -didi/di = little brother | -jie = older sister | -ge = older brother.
Qiao Damai's words made Qing Yichu's mouth fall open but no words made their exit. But having held his tongue for a good while, he then said with a stern smile: "But I think given how taxing this trip here was it's the proper time to meet with Huaisu-ge."
I nodded, saying: "Probably?" I guess.
That girl is Anchen-jie, she's Huaisu-ge's old girlfriend
Once he saw my indifference, he looked a bit strange, but no longer pursued the matter. Instead, he finally said something that gave me a tinge of distress.
While eating the meal Xiao Huaisu made himself, Qing Yichu as unusually quiet. I thought the words he said meant he had finally resigned himself, never expecting that before he went back he would make me feel uneasy.
"He's someone who's so proud, yet he's willing to cook for you. Ever since he stayed at my aunt's and I saw him, he was in the study practising his calligraphy, reading books, playing chess with my uncle, or discussing something in his professional field. He was some who was like a cool breeze and a bright moon. I never thought he'd be the kind of person that would be going out to buy groceries to make dinner." It was the sort of sadness and loss one felt deep in their heart when it seems a though the god they hold dear in their heart decided to stay on earth for the sake of a mortal, and acts as an ordinary mortal themselves.
When Xiao Huaisu got home, it was Qing Yichu who went to open the door for him. He had been in the living room the entire time, not even taking the time to peruse the room's furnishings. Hearing the noise, I exited the kitchen, and was chopping some onions so my eyes were a burning. In his hands were some groceries, but upon seeing my reddened eyes he sent Qing Yichu a quick nod before striding towards me, pulling me to go wash my face as he said: "Didn't I tell you I'd make dinner tonight?" Then sniffing me, he asked: "Where you cutting onions?"
"My Uncle is planning to make Huaisu-ge return to the French branch of the company, so it seems they'll be able to meet each other often then."
N/A
He then whispered: "That girl is Anchen-jie, she was Huaisi-ge's former girlfriend."
When Qing Yichu was done speaking, he stood up, adding: "Oh right, you noticed it, right? You resemble her a bit?"
I hummed then said: "The rain stopped, let's get going."
But... I also don't want to stand in Xiao Huaisu's way in taking control of Qianhua's largest group. And since Xiao Renzong wishes for him to return, Xiao Huaisu should be going back, right? So why hasn't he ever mentioned anything to me? Is he waiting until after our second child is born?
I nodded, saying: "Probably?" I guess.
Qing Yichu didn't leave, and I saw his initial shock when he heard Xiao Huaisu's words, as if he never thought Xiao Huaisu would take the initiative to help do these things. He then stared at me in astonishment, the look on his face complex. Afterwards, he put on a fresh face as he asked Xiao Huaisu: "Huaisu-gu, you can cook?"
You're trying to piss me off, huh? To make me think I'm someone else's stand-in?
I made my way back to the living room where Qiao Damai was sitting on the sofa flipping through a newspaper that was on the table. Seeing me come back, he screwed up his lips and said: "When you first asked me to come along I thought it was a good thing. Why did you invite such a 'young master'? He's so stuck up."
Qing Yichu stared at me deeply for a bit, then seeing no noticeable changes in my expression, he finally expressed his disappointed as he sneered: "You really are as calm as a cucumber, aren't you? Ha."
"You can go take a bath first and we'll just wait for you in the living room." While checking the time, I told him.
Taking one of the pears, Qing Yichu said: "Huaisu-ge actually remembers I like eating snow pears."
When I glancing at him in the mirror after this, it looked as though he was relieved.
To me, the girlfriend matter wasn't worth mentioning. Whether he had old girlfriends or not, or whether said ex-girlfriend now held a position at the same company and worked beside him is a non-issue because I trusted him. So I won't waste any breath at all in any of the sketchy things Qing Yichu spits out on purpose. I'd have to be a right fool to not see his deliberate attempts at provocation.
I took a poorly timed bite out of a snow pear, it made a crunch, and he couldn't seem to bear allowing his eyes to meet my own.
The moment Qing Yichu said roast duck, Qiao Damai couldn't help but sputter before breaking out in laughter, earning a strange look from Qing Yichu.
Letting out a friendly chuckle, I asked: "Are you ready to head back?"
But that last bit he mentioned, about Xiao Renzong wanting Xiao Huaisu to return to France, did manage to leave me somewhat unnerved.
Disdainfully, I replied: "I don't he took too kindly to your teasing, don't you think?"
I obviously have no interest in living in France. I'm not familiar with the country, nor am I accustomed to the folks living there.
You're trying to piss me off, huh? To make me think I'm someone else's stand-in?
But... I also don't want to stand in Xiao Huaisu's way in taking control of Qianhua's largest group. And since Xiao Renzong wishes for him to return, Xiao Huaisu should be going back, right? So why hasn't he ever mentioned anything to me? Is he waiting until after our second child is born?
Qiao Damai quickly restrained his laughter, his face now serious as he said: "That restaurant you mentioned, sounds good. We'll head to your place so we can in a little bit so you can get your self organised and later this evening we'll all go eat some roast duck. How about that, Li Tian?"
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