The Long Road Ahead: C36
Date?
This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
"As well as the chocolate mixed with nuts and raspberries." He ordered a dessert.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
"Nothing raw," Shan Haiming interrupted him, flipping through the menu. "We'll take one order of the pan-fried silver cod, then."
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
"How about we ask for them to pack it to go?" Xiao Ning didn't want to watch Shan Haiming be uncomfortable, so he suggested, "Let's head back earlier, you look a bit tired."
A server came over to hand over the menu, but Shan Haiming pointed them to Xiao Ning, indicating he would be the one to order.
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
Then there was also the fact that Shan Haiming's attitude towards people or issues was one without care or fear and quite level-headed, and he was the person Xiao Ning yearned for the most out of all the people around him. Just taking courage from such a person, for a short period of time, seemed to have made him able to turn back and take a good look at that mucky quagmire of a life he had led. It was a life that refused to take any steps forward, that had been his existence for nearly thirty years.
Date?
The feeling of déjà vu Xiao Ning got from those lines Shan Haiming just spoke made him unable to hold back the chuckle that left him, an act that made all those negative emotions caused by the run-in with Xia Li depart from him in a puff of smoke. "Then I'd like to add one serving of the sweet and sour pork with pineapple and the sticky rice."
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
Shan Haiming then knitted his brows so tight a fly could be caught in it. "Is this where you were heading?"
"I just meant that I understand," Xiao Ning replied with a chuckle.
But, to all this, Xiao Ning felt so foolish that the only thing he could say to that man was thank you.
Stunned, Xiao Ning hadn't expected him to have had other plans so soon.
Shan Haiming rubbed his forehead, his face expressionless as he spoke. "I'm going to say it one last time, whatever it is you want to say, just say it to me directly."
These were the same dishes Shan Haiming had ordered the first time they went to that restaurant.
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
It was nothing surprising, however, as he spent the last night on the road and possibly didn't have time to take a nap that morning either. His schedule was full, and he had to rush back that afternoon. In addition to this, he also helped Xiao Ning solve his problem with Xia Li, so his exhaustion was inevitable.
"Mn." Shan Haiming picked up a piece of chicken, seeming to not have so much energy as he did.
"Oh?" Shan Haiming repeated in a cold tone. "Whatever you mean to say, just say it clearly."
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
At this, Shan Haiming's brows perked up as he stated, "All those dishes you're ordering for me just so happen to be my favourites, so there's no guarantee there'll be much left for you."
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
"You, haa..." Shan Haiming took a seat right beside him, spreading his arms to rest on the back of the bench before speaking as though he was talking to himself or chiding. "You really have a way of getting under somebody's skin."
N/A
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
Being on the receiving end of such a stare, one tinged with a sense of aggression, had made that heart of Xiao Ning's skip a beat, and pushed him to a state of confusion that left him with no choice but to stare at the table, and focused on its patterns, while his sealed lips got to savour the unexpected awkwardness.
Shan Haiming rested his chin on his hand, gazing at Xiao Ning without a word while being the focus of this man's contented and serene gaze had caused Xiao Ning to develop a great sense of unease. It was only then he realised that coming to a place like Jingge at night was not the best choice when aiming to have an ordinary conversation. Not even a shred of business-like atmosphere was currently in this place to be seen.
Being on the receiving end of such a stare, one tinged with a sense of aggression, had made that heart of Xiao Ning's skip a beat, and pushed him to a state of confusion that left him with no choice but to stare at the table, and focused on its patterns, while his sealed lips got to savour the unexpected awkwardness.
The feeling of déjà vu Xiao Ning got from those lines Shan Haiming just spoke made him unable to hold back the chuckle that left him, an act that made all those negative emotions caused by the run-in with Xia Li depart from him in a puff of smoke. "Then I'd like to add one serving of the sweet and sour pork with pineapple and the sticky rice."
Being on the receiving end of such a stare, one tinged with a sense of aggression, had made that heart of Xiao Ning's skip a beat, and pushed him to a state of confusion that left him with no choice but to stare at the table, and focused on its patterns, while his sealed lips got to savour the unexpected awkwardness.
Xiao Ning had already closed his menu and had his attention turned to Shan Haiming as he ordered, while Shan Haiming had lifted his gaze towards Xiao Ning. Their eyes met and their hearts felt as though someone had plucked its strings. A low hum now echoed throughout their chests, coaxing their hearts to float as they sat under those dim lights.
It wasn't until the food was served that the atmosphere around that table lightened. Before they ate, Xiao Ning finally worked up the nerve to clear his throat and say, "About the apartment, thank you."
It was nothing surprising, however, as he spent the last night on the road and possibly didn't have time to take a nap that morning either. His schedule was full, and he had to rush back that afternoon. In addition to this, he also helped Xiao Ning solve his problem with Xia Li, so his exhaustion was inevitable.
Then there was also the fact that Shan Haiming's attitude towards people or issues was one without care or fear and quite level-headed, and he was the person Xiao Ning yearned for the most out of all the people around him. Just taking courage from such a person, for a short period of time, seemed to have made him able to turn back and take a good look at that mucky quagmire of a life he had led. It was a life that refused to take any steps forward, that had been his existence for nearly thirty years.
"As well as the chocolate mixed with nuts and raspberries." He ordered a dessert.
"I'm sorry." Xiao Ning responded in a whisper.
"So, no smoked salmon or the orange juice tofu?" Shan Haiming turned to look at the waiter. "How about something different? What are your most popular salmon dishes?"
At that time, Xiao Ning hadn't a clue of what more he should say.
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
"I just meant that I understand," Xiao Ning replied with a chuckle.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
"Mn." Shan Haiming picked up a piece of chicken, seeming to not have so much energy as he did.
"Our salmon sashimi is very popular—" the waiter replied.
"Mn." Shan Haiming picked up a piece of chicken, seeming to not have so much energy as he did.
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
His words were merciless, and that insecure tendency of Xiao Ning's to incessantly worry had once more reared its head, inciting the tips of his fingers to prickle.
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
Like this, he stood there, for a long time he simply stood. Looking to the left of him, then to the right, with an expression that made it clear he had no idea where he was, despondent, Xiao Ning began then began walking, not showing any care about which way went.
"Nothing raw," Shan Haiming interrupted him, flipping through the menu. "We'll take one order of the pan-fried silver cod, then."
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
So Xiao Ning sped up the pace he ate with and took advantage of the moment the fragrances spreading throughout his mouth soothed him to ask, "So, um, do you have any plans for Labour Day?"
The waiter wrote it down, then responded, "As you wish, sir."
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
Xiao Ning had already closed his menu and had his attention turned to Shan Haiming as he ordered, while Shan Haiming had lifted his gaze towards Xiao Ning. Their eyes met and their hearts felt as though someone had plucked its strings. A low hum now echoed throughout their chests, coaxing their hearts to float as they sat under those dim lights.
It felt as though he should thank him.
"I'm sorry." Xiao Ning responded in a whisper.
"Oh," he replied simply.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
So Xiao Ning sped up the pace he ate with and took advantage of the moment the fragrances spreading throughout his mouth soothed him to ask, "So, um, do you have any plans for Labour Day?"
These were the same dishes Shan Haiming had ordered the first time they went to that restaurant.
"Nothing raw," Shan Haiming interrupted him, flipping through the menu. "We'll take one order of the pan-fried silver cod, then."
"As well as the chocolate mixed with nuts and raspberries." He ordered a dessert.
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
So Xiao Ning sped up the pace he ate with and took advantage of the moment the fragrances spreading throughout his mouth soothed him to ask, "So, um, do you have any plans for Labour Day?"
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
"You, haa..." Shan Haiming took a seat right beside him, spreading his arms to rest on the back of the bench before speaking as though he was talking to himself or chiding. "You really have a way of getting under somebody's skin."
He then rose to his feet. "I'm leaving first."
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
Shan Haiming, wearing an expression of impatience that was practically emboldened with the words "troublesome to the extreme", lowered his head to look at him. "Didn't you ask them to pack it?"
Shan Haiming rested his chin on his hand, gazing at Xiao Ning without a word while being the focus of this man's contented and serene gaze had caused Xiao Ning to develop a great sense of unease. It was only then he realised that coming to a place like Jingge at night was not the best choice when aiming to have an ordinary conversation. Not even a shred of business-like atmosphere was currently in this place to be seen.
Stunned, Xiao Ning hadn't expected him to have had other plans so soon.
Occasionally lifting his head, he caught sight of Shan Haiming's focused gaze on him, seeming as though he was lost in deep thoughts, seeming so sharp it bordered on one inhuman, and making it unknown what it was that was going on in his mind.
It was always like this to some degree, in fact, whenever Xiao Ning found himself facing Shan Haiming. He never knew what to say, got all nervous, and contrary to one's expectation, the more they got to know one another, and the closer they got, the more this nervousness of his towards that man increased. Shan Haiming was very different from other people. Perhaps that was the reason for this case. Unlike others, that man would seize hold of Xiao Ning and force him to have a face-to-face confrontation, and such a domineering personality could leave a person perplexed.
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
"So, no smoked salmon or the orange juice tofu?" Shan Haiming turned to look at the waiter. "How about something different? What are your most popular salmon dishes?"
Shan Haiming then knitted his brows so tight a fly could be caught in it. "Is this where you were heading?"
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
Being on the receiving end of such a stare, one tinged with a sense of aggression, had made that heart of Xiao Ning's skip a beat, and pushed him to a state of confusion that left him with no choice but to stare at the table, and focused on its patterns, while his sealed lips got to savour the unexpected awkwardness.
"Oh," he replied simply.
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
Stunned, Xiao Ning hadn't expected him to have had other plans so soon.
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
It wasn't until the food was served that the atmosphere around that table lightened. Before they ate, Xiao Ning finally worked up the nerve to clear his throat and say, "About the apartment, thank you."
It was nothing surprising, however, as he spent the last night on the road and possibly didn't have time to take a nap that morning either. His schedule was full, and he had to rush back that afternoon. In addition to this, he also helped Xiao Ning solve his problem with Xia Li, so his exhaustion was inevitable.
It felt as though he should thank him.
Xiao Ning shook his head again, thinking of saying he had no idea, but he also always felt that saying such things would make it seem as though he had lost his temper, and thus would annoy the ones around him, so he instead chose to answer, "I was just taking a walk after I ate."
"You, haa..." Shan Haiming took a seat right beside him, spreading his arms to rest on the back of the bench before speaking as though he was talking to himself or chiding. "You really have a way of getting under somebody's skin."
"I'm sorry." Xiao Ning responded in a whisper.
"Mn." Shan Haiming picked up a piece of chicken, seeming to not have so much energy as he did.
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
So Xiao Ning sped up the pace he ate with and took advantage of the moment the fragrances spreading throughout his mouth soothed him to ask, "So, um, do you have any plans for Labour Day?"
To which Shan Haiming gave a hum in response indicating he may or may not.
It was nothing surprising, however, as he spent the last night on the road and possibly didn't have time to take a nap that morning either. His schedule was full, and he had to rush back that afternoon. In addition to this, he also helped Xiao Ning solve his problem with Xia Li, so his exhaustion was inevitable.
"Our salmon sashimi is very popular—" the waiter replied.
Shan Haiming then knitted his brows so tight a fly could be caught in it. "Is this where you were heading?"
"I just meant that I understand," Xiao Ning replied with a chuckle.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
Occasionally lifting his head, he caught sight of Shan Haiming's focused gaze on him, seeming as though he was lost in deep thoughts, seeming so sharp it bordered on one inhuman, and making it unknown what it was that was going on in his mind.
At that time, Xiao Ning hadn't a clue of what more he should say.
And as he sat there with his downcast gaze, a pair of shoes then stepped into his frame of vision. One second, then two, was how long Xiao Ning stared at feet below him rigidly before slowly lifting his head to stare at the owner of those shoes as if he hadn't recognised them.
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
The waiter wrote it down, then responded, "As you wish, sir."
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
It felt as though he should thank him.
His words were merciless, and that insecure tendency of Xiao Ning's to incessantly worry had once more reared its head, inciting the tips of his fingers to prickle.
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
Like this, he stood there, for a long time he simply stood. Looking to the left of him, then to the right, with an expression that made it clear he had no idea where he was, despondent, Xiao Ning began then began walking, not showing any care about which way went.
So Xiao Ning sped up the pace he ate with and took advantage of the moment the fragrances spreading throughout his mouth soothed him to ask, "So, um, do you have any plans for Labour Day?"
"So, no smoked salmon or the orange juice tofu?" Shan Haiming turned to look at the waiter. "How about something different? What are your most popular salmon dishes?"
But, to all this, Xiao Ning felt so foolish that the only thing he could say to that man was thank you.
Shan Haiming rubbed his forehead, his face expressionless as he spoke. "I'm going to say it one last time, whatever it is you want to say, just say it to me directly."
It was always like this to some degree, in fact, whenever Xiao Ning found himself facing Shan Haiming. He never knew what to say, got all nervous, and contrary to one's expectation, the more they got to know one another, and the closer they got, the more this nervousness of his towards that man increased. Shan Haiming was very different from other people. Perhaps that was the reason for this case. Unlike others, that man would seize hold of Xiao Ning and force him to have a face-to-face confrontation, and such a domineering personality could leave a person perplexed.
But Shan Haiming insisted, "Don't worry about it, we can just eat quickly."
"You, haa..." Shan Haiming took a seat right beside him, spreading his arms to rest on the back of the bench before speaking as though he was talking to himself or chiding. "You really have a way of getting under somebody's skin."
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
Then there was also the fact that Shan Haiming's attitude towards people or issues was one without care or fear and quite level-headed, and he was the person Xiao Ning yearned for the most out of all the people around him. Just taking courage from such a person, for a short period of time, seemed to have made him able to turn back and take a good look at that mucky quagmire of a life he had led. It was a life that refused to take any steps forward, that had been his existence for nearly thirty years.
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
"Our salmon sashimi is very popular—" the waiter replied.
Xiao Ning couldn't help but admit, that each one of his steps into the unknown depths and shallows on his way forward, were all made while his eyes were fixed on Shan Haiming's form leading the way.
"I'm sorry." Xiao Ning responded in a whisper.
"Haiming?" A bewildered Xiao Ning shot up to his feet, worriedly chasing after him until he was stopped by a waiter before going out the door. "Sir? You still haven't paid the bill?"
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
"I just meant that I understand," Xiao Ning replied with a chuckle.
"How about we ask for them to pack it to go?" Xiao Ning didn't want to watch Shan Haiming be uncomfortable, so he suggested, "Let's head back earlier, you look a bit tired."
Xiao Ning shook his head again, thinking of saying he had no idea, but he also always felt that saying such things would make it seem as though he had lost his temper, and thus would annoy the ones around him, so he instead chose to answer, "I was just taking a walk after I ate."
And as he sat there with his downcast gaze, a pair of shoes then stepped into his frame of vision. One second, then two, was how long Xiao Ning stared at feet below him rigidly before slowly lifting his head to stare at the owner of those shoes as if he hadn't recognised them.
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
"Mn." Shan Haiming picked up a piece of chicken, seeming to not have so much energy as he did.
Xiao Ning shook his head again, thinking of saying he had no idea, but he also always felt that saying such things would make it seem as though he had lost his temper, and thus would annoy the ones around him, so he instead chose to answer, "I was just taking a walk after I ate."
But Shan Haiming insisted, "Don't worry about it, we can just eat quickly."
N/A
Date?
Shan Haiming rubbed his forehead, his face expressionless as he spoke. "I'm going to say it one last time, whatever it is you want to say, just say it to me directly."
But, to all this, Xiao Ning felt so foolish that the only thing he could say to that man was thank you.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
So Xiao Ning sped up the pace he ate with and took advantage of the moment the fragrances spreading throughout his mouth soothed him to ask, "So, um, do you have any plans for Labour Day?"
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
Then there was also the fact that Shan Haiming's attitude towards people or issues was one without care or fear and quite level-headed, and he was the person Xiao Ning yearned for the most out of all the people around him. Just taking courage from such a person, for a short period of time, seemed to have made him able to turn back and take a good look at that mucky quagmire of a life he had led. It was a life that refused to take any steps forward, that had been his existence for nearly thirty years.
At that time, Xiao Ning hadn't a clue of what more he should say.
His words were merciless, and that insecure tendency of Xiao Ning's to incessantly worry had once more reared its head, inciting the tips of his fingers to prickle.
As he chewed on a piece of fish, Xiao Ning found the meat in his mouth tasteless. Then as he swallowed, it felt uncomfortable, as if it were a stone.
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
To which Shan Haiming gave a hum in response indicating he may or may not.
Why was I such a disappointment? Always an annoyance.
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
"So, no smoked salmon or the orange juice tofu?" Shan Haiming turned to look at the waiter. "How about something different? What are your most popular salmon dishes?"
Stunned, Xiao Ning hadn't expected him to have had other plans so soon.
But, to all this, Xiao Ning felt so foolish that the only thing he could say to that man was thank you.
To which Shan Haiming gave a hum in response indicating he may or may not.
Yes, he felt as though it was something he shouldn't say at such a moment because he knew it was not something Shan Haiming wanted to hear. But just as it was with his thank yous, and because Shan Haiming said he was a person who has a way of getting under somebody's skin, apart from saying he was sorry, he also had no idea what he should say at a time like this.
"How about we ask for them to pack it to go?" Xiao Ning didn't want to watch Shan Haiming be uncomfortable, so he suggested, "Let's head back earlier, you look a bit tired."
At that time, Xiao Ning hadn't a clue of what more he should say.
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
These were the same dishes Shan Haiming had ordered the first time they went to that restaurant.
The waiter wrote it down, then responded, "As you wish, sir."
Stunned, Xiao Ning hadn't expected him to have had other plans so soon.
As he chewed on a piece of fish, Xiao Ning found the meat in his mouth tasteless. Then as he swallowed, it felt uncomfortable, as if it were a stone.
Then there was also the fact that Shan Haiming's attitude towards people or issues was one without care or fear and quite level-headed, and he was the person Xiao Ning yearned for the most out of all the people around him. Just taking courage from such a person, for a short period of time, seemed to have made him able to turn back and take a good look at that mucky quagmire of a life he had led. It was a life that refused to take any steps forward, that had been his existence for nearly thirty years.
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
Xiao Ning shook his head again, thinking of saying he had no idea, but he also always felt that saying such things would make it seem as though he had lost his temper, and thus would annoy the ones around him, so he instead chose to answer, "I was just taking a walk after I ate."
"Our salmon sashimi is very popular—" the waiter replied.
"Oh," he replied simply.
To which Shan Haiming gave a hum in response indicating he may or may not.
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
His words were merciless, and that insecure tendency of Xiao Ning's to incessantly worry had once more reared its head, inciting the tips of his fingers to prickle.
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
"Oh?" Shan Haiming repeated in a cold tone. "Whatever you mean to say, just say it clearly."
At this, Shan Haiming's brows perked up as he stated, "All those dishes you're ordering for me just so happen to be my favourites, so there's no guarantee there'll be much left for you."
"How about we ask for them to pack it to go?" Xiao Ning didn't want to watch Shan Haiming be uncomfortable, so he suggested, "Let's head back earlier, you look a bit tired."
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
But Shan Haiming insisted, "Don't worry about it, we can just eat quickly."
Shan Haiming then knitted his brows so tight a fly could be caught in it. "Is this where you were heading?"
"I just meant that I understand," Xiao Ning replied with a chuckle.
Date?
"Oh," he replied simply.
It was always like this to some degree, in fact, whenever Xiao Ning found himself facing Shan Haiming. He never knew what to say, got all nervous, and contrary to one's expectation, the more they got to know one another, and the closer they got, the more this nervousness of his towards that man increased. Shan Haiming was very different from other people. Perhaps that was the reason for this case. Unlike others, that man would seize hold of Xiao Ning and force him to have a face-to-face confrontation, and such a domineering personality could leave a person perplexed.
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
It was a moment where he could feel the true vastness of this world—but with it came the realisation there was nowhere for him to go.
It was always like this to some degree, in fact, whenever Xiao Ning found himself facing Shan Haiming. He never knew what to say, got all nervous, and contrary to one's expectation, the more they got to know one another, and the closer they got, the more this nervousness of his towards that man increased. Shan Haiming was very different from other people. Perhaps that was the reason for this case. Unlike others, that man would seize hold of Xiao Ning and force him to have a face-to-face confrontation, and such a domineering personality could leave a person perplexed.
His words were merciless, and that insecure tendency of Xiao Ning's to incessantly worry had once more reared its head, inciting the tips of his fingers to prickle.
He then rose to his feet. "I'm leaving first."
It wasn't until the food was served that the atmosphere around that table lightened. Before they ate, Xiao Ning finally worked up the nerve to clear his throat and say, "About the apartment, thank you."
To which Shan Haiming gave a hum in response indicating he may or may not.
Shan Haiming rubbed his forehead, his face expressionless as he spoke. "I'm going to say it one last time, whatever it is you want to say, just say it to me directly."
"You, haa..." Shan Haiming took a seat right beside him, spreading his arms to rest on the back of the bench before speaking as though he was talking to himself or chiding. "You really have a way of getting under somebody's skin."
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
Stunned, Xiao Ning hadn't expected him to have had other plans so soon.
Xiao Ning couldn't help but admit, that each one of his steps into the unknown depths and shallows on his way forward, were all made while his eyes were fixed on Shan Haiming's form leading the way.
Xiao Ning curled his tingling fingers ever so slightly, wondering just why it was something so insignificant had managed to make Shan Haiming so mad. Was he tired, which put him in a bad mood? Or did something bad happen to him?
Xiao Ning curled his tingling fingers ever so slightly, wondering just why it was something so insignificant had managed to make Shan Haiming so mad. Was he tired, which put him in a bad mood? Or did something bad happen to him?
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
"Haiming?" A bewildered Xiao Ning shot up to his feet, worriedly chasing after him until he was stopped by a waiter before going out the door. "Sir? You still haven't paid the bill?"
For a while, Shan Haiming waited, as if he had grown tired, before saying simply, "Just forget it."
"Haiming?" A bewildered Xiao Ning shot up to his feet, worriedly chasing after him until he was stopped by a waiter before going out the door. "Sir? You still haven't paid the bill?"
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
"Oh," he replied simply.
He then rose to his feet. "I'm leaving first."
He had a knack for making others disappointed, so much so that even he couldn't stand himself either. Of course, everyone would lose patience with me, that wasn't at all surprising.
"Haiming?" A bewildered Xiao Ning shot up to his feet, worriedly chasing after him until he was stopped by a waiter before going out the door. "Sir? You still haven't paid the bill?"
"Nothing raw," Shan Haiming interrupted him, flipping through the menu. "We'll take one order of the pan-fried silver cod, then."
Xiao Ning curled his tingling fingers ever so slightly, wondering just why it was something so insignificant had managed to make Shan Haiming so mad. Was he tired, which put him in a bad mood? Or did something bad happen to him?
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
It wasn't until the food was served that the atmosphere around that table lightened. Before they ate, Xiao Ning finally worked up the nerve to clear his throat and say, "About the apartment, thank you."
In a daze, Xiao Ning stood at the corner of the street. Those colourful signs and the blinding headlights shone brilliantly, creating a strange world under the cover of darkness that dazzled. While the crowds bustling to and fro descended into the backdrop of this world, becoming something unfamiliar and frightful.
Xiao Ning opened his mouth, but then only shook his head.
The feeling of déjà vu Xiao Ning got from those lines Shan Haiming just spoke made him unable to hold back the chuckle that left him, an act that made all those negative emotions caused by the run-in with Xia Li depart from him in a puff of smoke. "Then I'd like to add one serving of the sweet and sour pork with pineapple and the sticky rice."
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
Yes, he felt as though it was something he shouldn't say at such a moment because he knew it was not something Shan Haiming wanted to hear. But just as it was with his thank yous, and because Shan Haiming said he was a person who has a way of getting under somebody's skin, apart from saying he was sorry, he also had no idea what he should say at a time like this.
Xiao Ning curled his tingling fingers ever so slightly, wondering just why it was something so insignificant had managed to make Shan Haiming so mad. Was he tired, which put him in a bad mood? Or did something bad happen to him?
Shan Haiming rubbed his forehead, his face expressionless as he spoke. "I'm going to say it one last time, whatever it is you want to say, just say it to me directly."
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
Shan Haiming, wearing an expression of impatience that was practically emboldened with the words "troublesome to the extreme", lowered his head to look at him. "Didn't you ask them to pack it?"
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
"I said it already," Shan Haiming raised his chopsticks, while his sharp brows knitted, making clear his not-so-great mood "I really hate trying to guess what it is you actually mean when you say something. Or is it that you think acting all coy makes you look cuteT/n: the phrase he used here is one that is used to describe children and women as cute but not grown men. To a grown man it hits like an insult.?"
In a daze, Xiao Ning stood at the corner of the street. Those colourful signs and the blinding headlights shone brilliantly, creating a strange world under the cover of darkness that dazzled. While the crowds bustling to and fro descended into the backdrop of this world, becoming something unfamiliar and frightful.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
As he chewed on a piece of fish, Xiao Ning found the meat in his mouth tasteless. Then as he swallowed, it felt uncomfortable, as if it were a stone.
"So, no smoked salmon or the orange juice tofu?" Shan Haiming turned to look at the waiter. "How about something different? What are your most popular salmon dishes?"
Date?
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
It was a moment where he could feel the true vastness of this world—but with it came the realisation there was nowhere for him to go.
"Oh?" Shan Haiming repeated in a cold tone. "Whatever you mean to say, just say it clearly."
Why was I such a disappointment? Always an annoyance.
It was a moment where he could feel the true vastness of this world—but with it came the realisation there was nowhere for him to go.
"Huh? Oh, I'm sorry. Alright." As Xiao Ning pulled out his wallet to pay the bill in a fluster, his anxious gaze kept fixed outside the door. He didn't even wait for the change after paying, choosing to rush straight out to start looking. But Shan Haiming was tall, and his legs were long as well, so it didn't take long for him to completely disappear.
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
To which Shan Haiming gave a hum in response indicating he may or may not.
It was always like this to some degree, in fact, whenever Xiao Ning found himself facing Shan Haiming. He never knew what to say, got all nervous, and contrary to one's expectation, the more they got to know one another, and the closer they got, the more this nervousness of his towards that man increased. Shan Haiming was very different from other people. Perhaps that was the reason for this case. Unlike others, that man would seize hold of Xiao Ning and force him to have a face-to-face confrontation, and such a domineering personality could leave a person perplexed.
Like this, he stood there, for a long time he simply stood. Looking to the left of him, then to the right, with an expression that made it clear he had no idea where he was, despondent, Xiao Ning began then began walking, not showing any care about which way went.
The feeling of déjà vu Xiao Ning got from those lines Shan Haiming just spoke made him unable to hold back the chuckle that left him, an act that made all those negative emotions caused by the run-in with Xia Li depart from him in a puff of smoke. "Then I'd like to add one serving of the sweet and sour pork with pineapple and the sticky rice."
He had a knack for making others disappointed, so much so that even he couldn't stand himself either. Of course, everyone would lose patience with me, that wasn't at all surprising.
Xiao Ning opened his mouth, but then only shook his head.
Why was I such a disappointment? Always an annoyance.
The waiter wrote it down, then responded, "As you wish, sir."
Xiao Ning was so lost in his thoughts he had no idea for how long he was walking, and soon, an empty bench was before him. Walking towards it, he then sat down without thinking, and upon doing so, he suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion crash down. His waist bent, his head fell into his palms, followed by a long sigh and a wry smile. His current appearance to the ones around him must've been thought of as the result of a guy who lost his job or had lost in love.
A server came over to hand over the menu, but Shan Haiming pointed them to Xiao Ning, indicating he would be the one to order.
Xiao Ning couldn't help but admit, that each one of his steps into the unknown depths and shallows on his way forward, were all made while his eyes were fixed on Shan Haiming's form leading the way.
Xiao Ning had already closed his menu and had his attention turned to Shan Haiming as he ordered, while Shan Haiming had lifted his gaze towards Xiao Ning. Their eyes met and their hearts felt as though someone had plucked its strings. A low hum now echoed throughout their chests, coaxing their hearts to float as they sat under those dim lights.
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
Xiao Ning suggested they go to Jinge restaurant.
"As well as the chocolate mixed with nuts and raspberries." He ordered a dessert.
"Our salmon sashimi is very popular—" the waiter replied.
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
Xiao Ning couldn't help but admit, that each one of his steps into the unknown depths and shallows on his way forward, were all made while his eyes were fixed on Shan Haiming's form leading the way.
And as he sat there with his downcast gaze, a pair of shoes then stepped into his frame of vision. One second, then two, was how long Xiao Ning stared at feet below him rigidly before slowly lifting his head to stare at the owner of those shoes as if he hadn't recognised them.
But it wasn't all that surprising given Shan Haiming was nothing like him. He was someone who worked from nine to five for five days out of the week. He rarely had overtime, had very few friends, and his unexciting disposition when it came to going out and having fun, just dampened the mood of those around him, and made them flustered. Even going back to C-City to visit the Lu's seems as though he was trying to declare there were people for him somewhere. That he had a home he could go back to, one he held dearly in his heart as well.
These were the same dishes Shan Haiming had ordered the first time they went to that restaurant.
But this was wrong, it was he, himself, who was the utter failure.
And as he sat there with his downcast gaze, a pair of shoes then stepped into his frame of vision. One second, then two, was how long Xiao Ning stared at feet below him rigidly before slowly lifting his head to stare at the owner of those shoes as if he hadn't recognised them.
Occasionally lifting his head, he caught sight of Shan Haiming's focused gaze on him, seeming as though he was lost in deep thoughts, seeming so sharp it bordered on one inhuman, and making it unknown what it was that was going on in his mind.
In a daze, Xiao Ning stood at the corner of the street. Those colourful signs and the blinding headlights shone brilliantly, creating a strange world under the cover of darkness that dazzled. While the crowds bustling to and fro descended into the backdrop of this world, becoming something unfamiliar and frightful.
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
While his eyes moved gently, Shan Haiming gazed at Xiao Ning intently, earnestly, with a hint of care or worry. He then lowered his head once more to look at the menu, the soft light shining down from above him, his illuminated downcast gaze was so gentle it would surely cause a person's heart to move.
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
Shan Haiming, wearing an expression of impatience that was practically emboldened with the words "troublesome to the extreme", lowered his head to look at him. "Didn't you ask them to pack it?"
Xiao Ning couldn't pin down what he found so amusing about that disinterested easygoing expression of his, but after accepting the menu, he began stating their order. "The three-cup prawn, salted-crispy crab, the wild mushroom laofan rice, and um... the chicken stuffed asparagus."
Jinge at night was a very different place than it was in the day. In the daytime, it seemed more like a people-friendly, affordable restaurant that could be enjoyed by the masses. But, at nighttime, the lights were dimmed, and the atmosphere became much more intimate.
iana: I'm sorry for taking so long.
Xiao Ning opened his mouth, but then only shook his head.
Xiao Ning had already closed his menu and had his attention turned to Shan Haiming as he ordered, while Shan Haiming had lifted his gaze towards Xiao Ning. Their eyes met and their hearts felt as though someone had plucked its strings. A low hum now echoed throughout their chests, coaxing their hearts to float as they sat under those dim lights.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
To Shan Haiming, there were many times the only thing he could do was express his thanks, but was a "thank you" really enough to convey his feelings? That man had reached out to support him at the exact right moment and without any hesitation every single time. He had stopped him from falling into more unbearable situations, and it wasn't just help he had offered, it was more like a rescue.
But, to all this, Xiao Ning felt so foolish that the only thing he could say to that man was thank you.
His words were merciless, and that insecure tendency of Xiao Ning's to incessantly worry had once more reared its head, inciting the tips of his fingers to prickle.
It was a moment where he could feel the true vastness of this world—but with it came the realisation there was nowhere for him to go.
"Our salmon sashimi is very popular—" the waiter replied.
Shan Haiming then knitted his brows so tight a fly could be caught in it. "Is this where you were heading?"
In a daze, Xiao Ning stood at the corner of the street. Those colourful signs and the blinding headlights shone brilliantly, creating a strange world under the cover of darkness that dazzled. While the crowds bustling to and fro descended into the backdrop of this world, becoming something unfamiliar and frightful.
Shan Haiming, wearing an expression of impatience that was practically emboldened with the words "troublesome to the extreme", lowered his head to look at him. "Didn't you ask them to pack it?"
Why was I such a disappointment? Always an annoyance.
Xiao Ning shook his head again, thinking of saying he had no idea, but he also always felt that saying such things would make it seem as though he had lost his temper, and thus would annoy the ones around him, so he instead chose to answer, "I was just taking a walk after I ate."
It was a moment where he could feel the true vastness of this world—but with it came the realisation there was nowhere for him to go.
Xiao Ning curled his tingling fingers ever so slightly, wondering just why it was something so insignificant had managed to make Shan Haiming so mad. Was he tired, which put him in a bad mood? Or did something bad happen to him?
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
The waiter wrote it down, then responded, "As you wish, sir."
At this, Shan Haiming's brows perked up as he stated, "All those dishes you're ordering for me just so happen to be my favourites, so there's no guarantee there'll be much left for you."
"You, haa..." Shan Haiming took a seat right beside him, spreading his arms to rest on the back of the bench before speaking as though he was talking to himself or chiding. "You really have a way of getting under somebody's skin."
It wasn't until the food was served that the atmosphere around that table lightened. Before they ate, Xiao Ning finally worked up the nerve to clear his throat and say, "About the apartment, thank you."
Shan Haiming rested his chin on his hand, gazing at Xiao Ning without a word while being the focus of this man's contented and serene gaze had caused Xiao Ning to develop a great sense of unease. It was only then he realised that coming to a place like Jingge at night was not the best choice when aiming to have an ordinary conversation. Not even a shred of business-like atmosphere was currently in this place to be seen.
It felt as though he should thank him.
He had a knack for making others disappointed, so much so that even he couldn't stand himself either. Of course, everyone would lose patience with me, that wasn't at all surprising.
"Haiming?" A bewildered Xiao Ning shot up to his feet, worriedly chasing after him until he was stopped by a waiter before going out the door. "Sir? You still haven't paid the bill?"
"I'm sorry." Xiao Ning responded in a whisper.
"I just meant that I understand," Xiao Ning replied with a chuckle.
Yes, he felt as though it was something he shouldn't say at such a moment because he knew it was not something Shan Haiming wanted to hear. But just as it was with his thank yous, and because Shan Haiming said he was a person who has a way of getting under somebody's skin, apart from saying he was sorry, he also had no idea what he should say at a time like this.
Shan Haiming rested his chin on his hand, gazing at Xiao Ning without a word while being the focus of this man's contented and serene gaze had caused Xiao Ning to develop a great sense of unease. It was only then he realised that coming to a place like Jingge at night was not the best choice when aiming to have an ordinary conversation. Not even a shred of business-like atmosphere was currently in this place to be seen.
For a while, Shan Haiming waited, as if he had grown tired, before saying simply, "Just forget it."
It was always like this to some degree, in fact, whenever Xiao Ning found himself facing Shan Haiming. He never knew what to say, got all nervous, and contrary to one's expectation, the more they got to know one another, and the closer they got, the more this nervousness of his towards that man increased. Shan Haiming was very different from other people. Perhaps that was the reason for this case. Unlike others, that man would seize hold of Xiao Ning and force him to have a face-to-face confrontation, and such a domineering personality could leave a person perplexed.
After the waiter left, the two sat at the table in silence.
At this, Shan Haiming's brows perked up as he stated, "All those dishes you're ordering for me just so happen to be my favourites, so there's no guarantee there'll be much left for you."
At that time, Xiao Ning hadn't a clue of what more he should say.
Xiao Ning curled his tingling fingers ever so slightly, wondering just why it was something so insignificant had managed to make Shan Haiming so mad. Was he tired, which put him in a bad mood? Or did something bad happen to him?
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