Category: Replica (Page 4 of 5)

Chapter 16: Working the night shift 

 

On Christmas Eve, Tan Xilu happened to have no classes, but the dessert shop was still open for business. Xu Huaiming prepared breakfast in the morning and then headed to the dessert shop. Tan Xilu woke up later and had a hasty meal.

 

This winter was colder than usual, with half a day of snow after the first snowfall. The snow hadn’t melted yet, as if it was meant to create a picturesque scene for Christmas. In the teachers’ group chat, several teachers were sharing videos of students having snowball fights, having a great time.

 

Someone suddenly brought up the topic of where they were planning to go for the year-end holiday. Some teachers responded, “Oh, where’s the money coming from? My child is about to enter college, and it’s a hefty expense.”

 

The other person said, “I haven’t decided yet. But I’ll definitely spend it with my parents.”

 

“I haven’t thought about it. I have to help some students with their projects.”

 

“I don’t want to fuss during the New Year. I just want to relax in bed.”

 

“… “

 

Someone unexpectedly shifted the conversation to Tan Xilu, “Teacher Tan, what about you? Your recent open class performance was excellent, and your year-end bonus must be substantial. You’re not going to spend another holiday alone at home, are you? Won’t you go out and have some fun?”

 

“Yeah, Teacher Tan, being alone is so lonely. How about I introduce you to someone?”

 

“I’ll do the introduction. I have a niece who just graduated from grad school this year…”

 

Tan Xilu: How did I get caught in this?

 

Tan Xilu sighed and rubbed his forehead. In the end, he was only twenty-eight years old. Indeed, it was the age to consider settling down, but his career had just started, and there was no need to rush.

 

In the past, he would have pretended to be busy or declined by saying he had a hectic work schedule. But now he had Xu Huaiming, and these teachers didn’t know about Xu Huaiming, so they assumed he was still single.

 

After a brief pause, Tan Xilu responded in the chat, “Dear colleagues, don’t worry about my personal life. It’s already sorted out!”

 

The chat went silent for about a minute, and then a flurry of messages came in, mimicking chicken clucking.

 

“Teacher Tan, you’re not being fair. How could you keep a relationship secret from us?”

 

“Oh, Teacher Tan is really focused on major matters, could it be that next year we’ll find out about children coming into the world?”

 

“That’s right!”

 

“… “

 

“No,” Tan Xilu typed and sent, “I just wanted to stabilize things before telling everyone.”

 

He hesitated for a moment and decided not to mention that the person he was dating was actually a boyfriend. After all, the situation with Tan Xilu and Qin Sizhe had caused quite a stir recently, and it might not be the best time to share this information.

 

“Then you must introduce them to us properly!”

 

“Yes, introduce them, and treat us to a meal!”

 

“Exactly, treat us to a nice meal.”

 

Tan Xilu smiled helplessly and replied, “Alright, no problem.”

 

Tan Xilu thought that when things settled down a bit, he would introduce Xu Huaiming to everyone.

 

After chatting for a while in the group, Tan Xilu suddenly realized that it was almost two o’clock.

 

He casually tidied up the dining table and planned to change his clothes before going to the dessert shop.

 

It was still snowing outside, and he was about to grab an umbrella when someone knocked on the door.

 

Tan Xilu walked over and opened the door. Outside, Lin Changyu was holding a plate of clean apples and smiling at Tan Xilu. “Teacher Tan, I bought too many apples the other day, and Lin Xiaozhi and I can’t finish them all. I’ve brought some for you. It’s Christmas Eve tonight, so let’s eat some apples and make wishes for peace.”

 

“Ah!” Tan Xilu was a bit surprised. He didn’t usually celebrate these holidays, and he realized that the things he used to enjoy when he was younger now seemed childish.

 

Back when he was together with Xu Huaiming, they had celebrated a few holidays together. But because of those holidays and the strange little romantic gestures that Xu Huaiming had done, he couldn’t forget them. So during the days when Xu Huaiming was missing and during these holidays, Tan Xilu preferred to lock himself in his room, reminiscing about every moment they had shared.

 

Time was a terrifying thing; it could steal away memories. Tan Xilu realized that he was starting to forget what they had done together back then, and these holidays had become just like ordinary days.

 

Tan Xilu accepted the apples and thanked Lin Changyu.

 

Lin Changyu waved his hand. “Don’t mention it, Teacher Tan!”

 

After saying that, Lin Changyu turned and left. Watching Lin Changyu’s figure disappear into the opposite door, Tan Xilu suddenly felt a familiar sensation in his heart. He couldn’t remember where he had seen the clothes Lin Changyu was wearing, but it seemed like something he had seen before, although he couldn’t quite recall it.

 

Outside the dessert shop, the little Christmas tree figurines were all gone, leaving only the colored lights on the tree. Arlene added a few more figurines, suddenly remembering something, she turned and called out to Xu Huaiming inside, “Xu Ge, is your little surprise ready?”

 

Xu Huaiming replied with an “Ah” and somewhat embarrassedly came out, saying, “Keep your voice down…”

 

“Oh, okay,” Arlene quickly covered her mouth and laughed. “It’s my first time witnessing this kind of thing, so I’m a bit nervous.”

 

“The cake is in the oven, just five more minutes,” Xu Huaiming said. “The strawberries are also washed, and in another half hour, everything will be ready.”

 

“Wow,” Arlene exclaimed, “that’s great! What about the ring? Is it ready too?”

 

Xu Huaiming took out a red velvet box from his pocket. “I’ll put it in once the cake is done.”

 

The surprise that Arlene had helped plan earlier was a “proposal.”

 

Before, no. 7 had prepared many surprises, and Xu Huaiming knew this. His programmed memories were deeply ingrained. However, due to no. 7’s many concerns, these surprises could only be considered small, and they had never gone beyond that. So something as significant as a proposal had never even crossed no. 7’s mind because it was simply impossible.

 

But Xu Huaiming was different.

 

Thanks to no. 7, he could even fulfill all of Tan Xilu’s requests within his capabilities. And because the previous surprises had become a thing of the past, Xu Huaiming thought that the only way to truly surprise Tan Xilu and make it unforgettable was with a more romantic proposal.

 

When he returned to the shop, the cake had just finished baking. Xu Huaiming took it out and hollowed out a portion of the center of the cake, where he would hide the ring.

 

It was a deliberately small cake, just the right size for Tan Xilu to finish. When he ate halfway through, he would feel something hard and discover the ring.

 

Then, Xu Huaiming would propose.

 

He had seen this proposal idea on TV. After going through countless trials and tribulations in their relationship, the male lead proposed by hiding the ring in a small cake that the female lead loved. The result was that the female lead almost chipped her tooth, and although this method was a bit clichéd and funny, Xu Huaiming thought it might be the best surprise he could give to Tan Xilu.

 

He was not very skilled in romance; he lacked no. 7’s understanding of it. He knew that even if this proposal were successful, in Tan Xilu’s eyes, he would still be the same Xu Huaiming as before, the one from no. 7’s time.

 

It took Xu Huaiming thirty minutes to prepare the cake, adding plenty of strawberries that Tan Xilu liked. He decorated it in a beautiful cake box, ready for Tan Xilu to open and discover the surprise.

 

The electronic clock in the shop chimed on the hour, and it was already 4 PM. Earlier in the morning, Xu Huaiming had sent a message to Tan Xilu.

 

[Let me know before coming to the dessert shop.]

 

This was to ensure that he could prepare the surprise without being discovered. However, it was already 4 PM, and Tan Xilu still hadn’t replied.

 

Xu Huaiming frowned and dialed his phone.

 

After a long ringing, Tan Xilu finally answered. Before Xu Huaiming could speak, Tan Xilu apologized.

 

Xu Huaiming uttered an “Ah” and listened as Tan Xilu said, “I’m sorry, Xu Huaiming, something came up at my school. I might not be able to make it to the dessert shop today.”

 

Xu Huaiming was taken aback, and disappointment crept into his tone. “Is the school matter really that urgent? Can’t you spare some time to come to the shop?”

 

“It’s quite urgent, I’m really sorry, Xu Huaiming. How about I make it up to you tonight when I get back? We can do whatever you want. Huh?” Tan Xilu’s voice became soft and affectionate, a clear attempt to soothe Xu Huaiming.

 

“Alright, you go ahead and take care of your business,” Xu Huaiming replied. “Then you…”

 

Tan Xilu abruptly hung up without waiting for Xu Huaiming to finish his sentence, not even giving him a chance to say, “Come back soon.”

 

Xu Huaiming stared at his phone, dumbfounded, and eventually told Arlene, “Tan Lu won’t be coming; he’s busy with school.”

 

“Ahh!” Arlene was surprised. “Why does he have something to do at this hour?”

 

Seeing that Xu Huaiming’s expression didn’t look good, she quickly comforted him, “It’s okay, we can do it tomorrow. It’s Christmas after all. Or you can take the cake home in the evening. You don’t have to propose in front of a crowd; you can do it in private.”

 

Xu Huaiming gave a resigned “Hmm” and said, “I guess that’s the only option.”

 

Xu Huaiming was starting to dislike the word “waiting.” It no longer held the same joy it used to, especially when waiting for a replica of no. 7.

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 15: Sweet and Spicy

 

Li Xuandie finished the last bite of her cake but didn’t wait for Tan Xilu’s response. Her beautiful eyelashes blinked, and she looked at Tan Xilu. “So, Teacher Tan, instead of dwelling on this, it’s better not to meddle in everything. What does it matter who Qin Sizhe was kissing? After all, the matter is settled now. ‘Don’t work, don’t get in trouble.’ I think you understand this better than us.”

 

Tan Xilu had always known that this girl, Li Xuandie, was quite formidable. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have sought her help. However, he hadn’t expected her to be so uncooperative when he tried to approach the subject indirectly.

 

Li Xuandie raised an eyebrow and added, “Teacher, you and your boyfriend are really a great match. When are you going to introduce him to us?”

 

“Well…” Tan Xilu choked for a moment and subconsciously glanced at Xu Huaiming. After a while, he lowered his gaze and said, “Next time, next time I’ll invite you all to have some cake.”

 

“Thank you, Teacher Tan.” The girl smiled, stood up, and said, “I’ll leave now.”

 

Watching Li Xuandie’s departing figure, Tan Xilu’s expression darkened.

 

“Alright, you’ve done your best,” Xu Huaiming said as he placed a triangular piece of cake in front of Tan Xilu. He handed him a fork and said, “Come on, have a piece of cake.”

 

“Didn’t you tell me not to eat, saying I’d get fat?” Tan Xilu looked at Xu Huaiming.

 

“Who said you look so downcast?” Xu Huaiming reached over and ruffled Tan Xilu’s hair. “Eating sweets can improve your mood. So, I’ll allow it this once.”

 

Although he said that, Tan Xilu didn’t have much of an appetite for cake at the moment. Li Xuandie was right; he was meddling too much. But this was at Professor Qin’s request, and he couldn’t just ignore it.

 

Sometimes, interpersonal relationships could be so complex. If he could, Tan Xilu would prefer not to be a teacher, and he would stay at home. Xu Huaiming wouldn’t need to run a dessert shop either. They could just live a quiet life at home, making desserts together, and spend their days that way.

 

But that was impossible.

 

Tan Xilu leaned against Xu Huaiming, feeling suddenly tired.

 

The dessert shop closed at 9 PM, and Arlene left early for some reason, leaving only Tan Xilu and Xu Huaiming to tidy up.

 

Tan Xilu wore disposable gloves and picked up the used napkins from the tables, throwing them into the trash can. Sometimes, the girls who visited the shop accidentally spilled their drinks, whether it was cola or orange juice. When that happened, the white tablecloths on the tables would get dirty and needed to be sent for cleaning.

 

Tan Xilu removed the tablecloth from the table in front of him. He turned to Xu Huaiming and suggested, “Changing tablecloths every time is quite wasteful.”

 

Xu Huaiming handed him a new tablecloth and said, “Arlene also mentioned this. I plan to close the shop for two days and renovate it a bit. Add some decorations, paint some patterns on the glass tables, and stop using tablecloths.”

 

“Sounds good.” Tan Xilu spread the new tablecloth.

 

By the time they finished cleaning, it was almost 10 PM.

 

At this time, the night market was just beginning. Their dessert shop was located near a night market street, and it was always bustling, especially on weekends. As they walked toward the night market, Tan Xilu saw several familiar students, but they didn’t notice him. Tan Xilu didn’t initiate any greetings; after all, he was here to relax, and it would be awkward to meet students outside of school.

 

The snack street was bustling, and Christmas was just around the corner. Each stall was adorned with colorful Christmas lights, and some of the shopkeepers’ employees were dressed as Santa Claus, standing in front of their shops to attract customers.

 

Xu Huaiming was almost pulled into one of the shops by a Santa Claus, but Tan Xilu reacted quickly and pulled him back, apologizing to the shopkeeper and explaining that they weren’t interested.

 

Tan Xilu led Xu Huaiming to an empty barbecue stall and said, “You should learn to say no. This isn’t like the dessert shop where your good looks can attract customers. These stall owners are aggressive in pulling people in, and if you feel bad and enter, you might end up wasting money on something overpriced and not tasty.”

 

“I see,” Xu Huaiming glanced at Tan Xilu and remarked, “You seem to know a lot about this.”

 

“Not really,” Tan Xilu blushed slightly and admitted, “It’s because I’ve made mistakes before.”

 

Tan Xilu used to avoid junk food, especially spicy barbecue and hotpot. However, after Xu Huaiming went missing and he fell into a period of depression, he started indulging in unhealthy eating habits. This food street had been a place where he had lost quite a bit of money, and he even ended up in the hospital once after consuming something unclean from one of the stalls. But the few places he frequented were clean and safe, so he still visited them occasionally.

 

The shop owner, upon seeing Tan Xilu’s surprised reaction, came over and said, “A rare guest today, Teacher Tan.”

 

Tan Xilu smiled and replied, “Yes, it’s been a while. Today, I’m craving some food.”

 

The shop owner chuckled and said, “Teacher Tan, when you have cravings, you should enjoy yourself. Same as always?”

 

Tan Xilu looked at Xu Huaiming and asked, “Do you have something you’d like to eat?”

 

Xu Huaiming hesitated for a moment and then said, “Ah,” while his gaze drifted toward the meat skewers on the table next to them. His mental alert system went off like an alarm, and he quickly shook his head, saying, “What do you want to eat? I’m not hungry.”

 

“You’re not eating?” Tan Xilu looked a bit disappointed. He turned to the shop owner and said, “Alright, same as usual, then.”

 

“Sure thing,” the shop owner placed the order on his phone, then looked at Xu Huaiming again, not noticing his expression, and asked, “Teacher Lin is here today too. Teacher Tan, it seems like you haven’t brought your boyfriend to eat barbecue for a long time. Doesn’t Teacher Lin like cold beer? Not having any today?”

 

“Hmm?” Tan Xilu looked at Xu Huaiming, and suddenly, it dawned on him. His face changed instantly, and he hastily said, “Boss, you’ve got it wrong. This isn’t Teacher Lin.”

 

“Ah?” The shop owner was momentarily surprised and then looked at Xu Huaiming more carefully. He finally wore a somewhat embarrassed smile and said, “Oh, it’s really not Teacher Lin. My apologies, I got confused.”

 

Xu Huaiming remained expressionless on the surface, his icy demeanor not revealing any reaction. However, only he knew that his heart was in turmoil.

 

If it weren’t for him, Tan Xilu might have been in a relationship with someone else. If he hadn’t returned, Tan Xilu might have met someone better. Tan Xilu wasn’t limited to loving only him; he could love others too.

 

He wasn’t the only one.

 

But Xu Huaiming desperately wanted to be the one and only. He was grateful that he had returned in time. He was grateful that Tan Xilu had loved him enough to break up with Lin Zhiyuan.

 

However, there were too many uncertainties. Xu Huaiming had already started to fear what might happen in the future. What if one day, Tan Xilu realized that he wasn’t the same “Xu Huaiming” as before? How disappointed would he be when he discovered that the person he longed for had already died, and how would he react?

 

Xu Huaiming didn’t dare to think about it. He didn’t want to think about it.

 

He could sense danger approaching, and Tan Xilu was filling up more and more space in his heart. For an AI, this wasn’t a good sign.

 

The barbecue arrived, covered in various condiments and smelling incredibly delicious. Tan Xilu seemed ravenous and immediately picked up a skewer to eat, with bits of food sticking to his lips.

 

He no longer talked about Lin Zhiyuan, as if he had sensed that Xu Huaiming didn’t want to hear about it.

 

“Grilled chicken wings, they’re delicious. Give them a try,” Tan Xilu picked up a grilled chicken wing and held it up to Xu Huaiming’s mouth.

 

Xu Huaiming looked at him, hesitated for a moment, and then opened his mouth, taking a bite of the chicken wing.

 

The ice-cold beer arrived, and the waiter poured it into glasses. The amber liquid was topped with white foam, emitting a slight fizzing sound, reminiscent of a vintage brand.

 

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T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 14: Sakura leaves

 

As Christmas approached, the streets became lively. Arlene had already placed a Christmas tree at the front of the shop, and customers who came to enjoy desserts could receive a small plush toy as a gift.

 

It was a weekend, and Tan Xilu had also come to the shop in the morning. He was sitting at the bar counter, holding a small reindeer plush toy. Weekends tended to be busier, and the cake that Arlene had improved and turned into a Christmas special was selling quite well.

 

Xu Huaiming was preparing a hot milk tea for Tan Xilu. Tan Xilu had a sweet tooth, especially for the new cakes that Xu Huaiming had been making recently. Despite their high sugar content, Tan Xilu couldn’t resist them. He had already indulged in them several times, and today he came for more. However, Xu Huaiming refused, saying, “You can’t have more. Eating too much will make you gain weight.”

 

“Weight gain” was a forbidden term for Tan Xilu. In reality, he was quite thin. Even when Xu Huaiming had first returned and cuddled with him at night, he felt like he was holding onto bones. However, after being nourished by Xu Huaiming over these days, Tan Xilu had indeed gained some weight. But nutrition needed to be balanced, and excessive consumption of sweets could lead to various health issues. So Xu Huaiming controlled Tan Xilu’s dessert intake.

 

Therefore, to satisfy Tan Xilu’s cravings, Xu Huaiming made him a milk tea with a lower sugar content.

 

The milk tea still had plenty of pearls in it, served in a bowl. Tan Xilu was eating while looking at messages on his phone.

 

Although it was a weekend, Tan Xilu wasn’t truly taking a break. The incident with Qin Sizhe had caused some negative effects on the school. He had been caught with someone else in the office, and it happened to be witnessed by a student who had conflicts with him. This student didn’t immediately report to the teacher; instead, he took pictures of them kissing and posted them on the school forum before reporting it to the teacher.

 

By the time the teacher arrived, the entire school had heard about the incident. Although Tan Xilu wasn’t Qin Sizhe’s academic advisor, he was his mentor, and since Qin Sizhe’s academic advisor was away on a business trip on the day of the incident, the responsibility fell on Tan Xilu.

 

As Qin Sizhe was still in the hospital, the school had no choice but to mediate the situation with Tan Xilu and Qin Sizhe’s parents. In the end, they received a disciplinary warning, which would be posted on the bulletin board next week.

 

Qin Sizhe’s grades were already borderline, and he had a basketball tournament scheduled for next month. Winning the tournament would earn him extra credits, but now he was not only facing a disciplinary warning but also a broken leg, rendering him ineligible for the competition. As a result, he was likely to fail the finals. However, if the other person involved in the incident would come forward and speak up, Qin Sizhe might receive a lighter punishment, even if it was just a warning.

 

What puzzled Tan Xilu was the other key figure in this incident. From start to finish, he had no idea who the person Qin Sizhe had kissed in the office was. He wasn’t even sure if this person was a student at their school.

 

The student who took the photos was unclear, saying, “I don’t know who it is. I didn’t see their faces. The person had their back to me, but I can tell it was a guy with short hair and a slim waist. They had a pretty nice butt.”

 

Tan Xilu had asked Qin Sizhe, but Qin Sizhe had avoided answering, seemingly intent on protecting the person involved.

 

With the other person not coming forward and Qin Sizhe refusing to reveal their identity, the situation became difficult to handle. Qin Sizhe was likely to fail the semester.

 

However, Qin Sizhe seemed to have given up, saying, “It doesn’t matter. I’ll just go back and inherit the family business.”

 

Tan Xilu was taken aback by his words.

 

Tan Xilu wasn’t one to meddle in other people’s business, especially when the person involved didn’t care about it. However, Professor Qin had asked him to help.

 

Professor Qin was Tan Xilu’s advisor from undergraduate to graduate school. Their relationship was more like friends than teacher and student. Now they were colleagues, and Professor Qin had heard about the incident when he was on a business trip with Qin Sizhe’s academic advisor on the day it happened.

 

Professor Qin wasn’t biased towards Qin Sizhe; he just wanted to know who the person Qin Sizhe was protecting was. The incident had become quite a scandal, and if the two could be together, Professor Qin at least wanted to see what his supposed future niece-in-law looked like.

 

The coincidence was that the surveillance cameras in the office building were under maintenance that day, and there was no footage available. With no leads to follow, Professor Qin had given Tan Xilu a challenging task.

 

Tan Xilu could only start by approaching the students who were close to Qin Sizhe.

 

“Ding dong!” The doorbell rang, and a girl entered the shop. She looked around and, upon spotting Tan Xilu sitting at the bar, waved with a smile. “Teacher Tan.”

 

Tan Xilu looked surprised to see her. He hadn’t expected Li Xuandie to arrive so quickly.

 

Li Xuandie had a good relationship with Qin Sizhe, and Tan Xilu had attended several gatherings organized by their student group. These two seemed to be childhood friends, more like close buddies. Unfortunately, Qin Sizhe was gay; otherwise, their relationship might have turned romantic.

 

Li Xuandie walked over to the seat opposite Tan Xilu and casually took a seat. She asked, “Teacher Tan, do you need something from me?”

 

“Yes, there’s something.” Tan Xilu smiled and poked Xu Huaiming, saying, “Do we have any cake left? Give some to my student.”

 

Xu Huaiming looked at the girl opposite him, nodded silently, and plated a piece of blueberry cake he had just cut. He placed it in front of Li Xuandie.

 

“Wow.” Li Xuandie looked at the cake and said, “It looks really good.”

 

She had a gossipy expression on her face and whispered to Tan Xilu, “Teacher Tan, is this your boyfriend?”

 

Tan Xilu blushed but didn’t deny it.

 

“I’ve heard Qin Sizhe say that Teacher Tan’s boyfriend often shows affection in front of him. I’ve never had the chance to see him until today. He’s really handsome.” Li Xuandie had a starry-eyed expression. “He can also make desserts, which is amazing.”

 

Tan Xilu knew Xu Huaiming was good-looking, but hearing Li Xuandie praise him like this made him feel quite pleased. After all, it was a source of pride to have such a handsome man as his partner. However, today was not about compliments; he had business to discuss.

 

Tan Xilu stirred the pearls in his bowl and asked Li Xuandie, “Has Qin Sizhe been getting closer to anyone recently?”

 

“Teacher Tan is asking me about this?” Li Xuandie shrugged, nonchalantly picking at her cake with a fork. “You want to know about the incident with Qin Sizhe, right?”

 

Tan Xilu let out an “Ah” in acknowledgment. Since she already knew, he decided to get straight to the point. “Who was Qin Sizhe with in the office that day?”

 

Li Xuandie smiled but her expression had changed. Her tone wasn’t as friendly as before. “Teacher, how could I possibly know about something like that? You should ask the people involved.”

 

Tan Xilu was taken aback. He thought, “If the people involved were willing to speak up, would we need to ask you?”

 

“This is because Qin Sizhe didn’t tell me. You have a good relationship with him, and I thought you might have some information. If Qin Sizhe fails the semester because of this, Professor Qin will be furious. What if he gives you assignments as payback? Then you’ll be the ones at a disadvantage.” Tan Xilu pursed his lips. He wasn’t a strict teacher. Outside the classroom, he was more like a friendly senior, so even when he was trying to persuade someone, it sounded more like coaxing.

 

“Teacher Tan, you don’t need to worry about this.” Li Xuandie looked up at Tan Xilu and said, “Qin Sizhe has indeed been acting strange recently. I really don’t know about the office incident. I know he has a crush on someone, but I’m not sure who it is. It’s definitely not the person from the office. I think instead of dwelling on this, you should try to understand Qin Sizhe’s feelings. It’s better not to push him into trouble.”

 

Tan Xilu furrowed his brow, catching onto her words. “Qin Sizhe has been acting strange recently?”

 

The girl took a bite of the soft cake, savoring the endless blueberry sweetness. She nodded and said, “It seems like the person he likes has gotten into a relationship with someone else. He hasn’t been attending our gatherings lately, and he even stopped going to the basketball court.”

 

“In a relationship with someone else!” Tan Xilu’s eyes flashed with surprise, but when he thought about Chi Ye Xing’s appearance that day, he shouldn’t have been surprised. With a face like that, countless people would be attracted to him, and even Qin Sizhe, who used to be a typical basketball player, had fallen for him.

 

“Oh, and…” Li Xuandie put her fork down, licked her bright pink lips, and smiled with a touch of coldness. “Teacher, the student who took the photos definitely has issues too. I don’t understand why the school chose to protect him. He was the one who blew the incident up on the forum, leading to all the subsequent problems. He seems very determined to ruin Qin Sizhe. It’s quite difficult to fathom. Now he’s taken Qin Sizhe’s place in the team, and I’d like to ask, why?”

 

Tan Xilu opened his mouth but couldn’t utter a word for a while.

 

Why would the school protect that student?

 

It wasn’t protection; it was because the photos he took were evidence.

 

Because in this world, not everything is fair.

 

To bury the incident, the school needed to identify the main culprit.

 

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T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 13: The Difficulty of Love

 

It wasn’t yet time for the central heating to be turned on, so the hospital’s radiators were still cold. The advantage of a multi-bed room was that it wouldn’t be too cold with so many people, but it also meant that it was noisy due to the crowd.

 

On the side, an elderly man who was ill was using the restroom, and an elderly lady was holding a urine pot for him, emitting a nauseating odor in the air. However, Tan Xilu seemed numb to it all, sipping his porridge as if he couldn’t smell anything.

 

The rice porridge in the porcelain bowl was still warm. He scooped up a spoonful and put it in his mouth. The porridge had soybeans simmering inside, and when he chewed, there was a soft crunch in his mouth.

 

Sitting next to him, Tan Xilu was peeling an orange, meticulously removing the white fibers from the orange segments.

 

After taking the last sip of porridge, Tan Xilu grabbed a piece of tissue and wiped his mouth clean. Then he leaned comfortably against the hospital bed, looking at his elevated leg. He suddenly sighed, “I have to say, that guy is really ruthless.”

 

Tan Xilu glanced at him and placed the orange he had been peeling into Tan Xilu’s hand. “You, you just won’t give up. Now look, your leg is fractured.”

 

“Yeah, maybe it’s because he really dislikes me,” Tan Xilu replied, putting a slice of orange into his mouth. The orange was a bit sour, and the juice in his throat was a bit stimulating, but it didn’t make him hoarse. He gritted his teeth and swallowed it. Then he exclaimed, “Tan Lao Shi, where did this orange come from? It’s so sour.”

 

“It was given to me by the auntie at the entrance just now. It’s free, so don’t be picky,” Tan Xilu said, peeling another orange and placing it by the bedside.

 

“Oh,” Tan Xilu replied, pursing his lips. He asked, “Hasn’t anyone come to see me since I was admitted to the hospital?”

 

Tan Xilu shook his head.

 

Tan Xilu remained silent for a while with lowered eyes, then finally spoke, “I can imagine.”

 

Tan Xilu could understand why Tan Xilu was feeling so low. The love of a young person was hidden in their eyes. When they saw someone, the stars in their eyes shone brighter than the ones in the sky. However, that person was destined not to be moved, so no matter how bright the stars were, they couldn’t illuminate that person’s heart.

 

Tan Xilu reached out and gently touched Tan Xilu’s head, comforting him, “Don’t think too much for now. Let’s focus on healing your leg.”

 

When he was brought to the hospital, his pants had to be pulled down to reveal his knees, which were covered in bruises. Fortunately, Tan Xilu had only suffered a fracture and hadn’t damaged the bones inside, but he would still need several months to recover.

 

Tan Xilu bit his lip, feeling disheartened. Who didn’t understand the logic behind this? But “liking” was a complicated thing, not something he could control. The heart in his flesh and blood would be moved by someone, and he didn’t want to like him, but he couldn’t help it.

 

He liked Chi Yexing, and he knew it was impossible.

 

But he still liked him.

 

Perhaps it was the sour aftertaste of the oranges, as a sour sensation surged up in his nasal cavity, and his eyes began to tingle. He felt like he was about to cry, but he was a man, how could he cry?

 

“If you can’t hold it back, just cry. Have a good cry and then sleep, maybe everything will be fine,” Tan Xilu said, feeling a bit sorry for him. In matters of love, unrequited love was the most heartbreaking.

 

Perhaps because he had touched on Tan Xilu’s innermost feelings, he really couldn’t hold back and began to cry. The big young man might have never cried like this before, and the sound was so unpleasant that the crying child brought by a patient’s family member also started wailing. Suddenly, the entire ward was enveloped in cries.

 

Tan Xilu: “…”

 

He wished he hadn’t let him cry.

 

After crying, came sleep. After seeing Tan Xilu take a shallow breath, Tan Xilu covered him with the blanket and then left the room.

 

He had been out all day and hadn’t called Xu Huaiming. He didn’t know if Xu Huaiming was worried. He sighed and went to a quieter stairwell to call Xu Huaiming.

 

Yesterday, Arlene had said she wanted to buy a Christmas tree, and today at noon, she had it moved to the store.

 

Xu Huaiming was decorating the tree with Arlene. Arlene had bought many star-shaped lights, as well as copper bells and figurines. When they were hung on the tree and the lights were turned on, the tree looked gorgeous.

 

Arlene hung a Santa Claus figurine on the tree that could sing. It started singing as soon as she pressed the button. Just as Santa Claus had sung only one line, Xu Huaiming’s phone rang. He quickly took out his phone and saw that it was Tan Xilu’s number. He answered the call.

 

Xu Huaiming asked, “How’s it going? Is everything resolved?”

 

Tan Xilu replied with an “Hmm,” “It’s resolved, but it was a difficult situation. I’m in the hospital now, so I might be a bit late getting back.”

 

“In the hospital?” Xu Huaiming’s voice on the other end suddenly changed, and there was a loud clattering noise. Then came Xu Huaiming’s anxious voice, “Are you injured? Which hospital are you in?”

 

“I’m fine, it’s one of my students who’s injured, and I’m just here to accompany him. You should remember him; he’s the one we saw at the school gate before,” Tan Xilu explained.

 

“Oh, him.” Xu Huaiming’s voice gradually softened. He was feeling a bit unhappy about the unfamiliar man from yesterday and now this student today. It seemed like Tan Xilu didn’t really lack people around him and didn’t need him.

 

“Ah, Xu Huaiming, look outside, it’s snowing,” Tan Xilu said as he saw the snow starting to fall. He opened a window slightly and extended his hand. It was the first snowfall of the year, and the white snowflakes fell into his palm. The warmth from the radiator was replaced by the cold of the snowflakes, creating a strange sensation.

 

Upon hearing Tan Xilu mention the snow, Xu Huaiming had just picked up a plastic bottle that had fallen on the ground. He then walked out of the store. It was indeed snowing, and many pedestrians on the street had stopped to take videos or photos. Xu Huaiming wasn’t particularly interested in snow or anything else, but as long as Tan Xilu liked it, he felt he should like it too. So he said, “Yes, it’s snowing. It’s beautiful.”

 

A girl nearby was talking on the phone with her boyfriend, probably in a long-distance relationship. She complained, “The first snow should be watched with the person you love the most. You can’t come today, so I have to be alone.”

 

The boyfriend said, “I’ll definitely come back to be with you on Christmas. Don’t be upset, darling.”

 

Xu Huaiming didn’t hear what the girl said afterward; he was asking about the hospital where Tan Xilu was.

 

Without an umbrella, the snow was getting heavier. The streetlights emitted a dim yellow glow, and the falling snowflakes made everything hazy. The road leading to the hospital was lined with pine trees, where green met white, and the world was a blend of black, green, and white.

 

Xu Huaiming couldn’t wait to see Tan Xilu. On the first snowy night, he wanted to be with the person he loved the most. He thought that Tan Xilu would surely appreciate this little romantic gesture. He ran all the way, grateful for his AI body, which didn’t tire out and was full of energy.

 

Passersby would probably never understand why the man running happily on the road seemed so ecstatic.

 

And at that moment, Xu Huaiming didn’t understand either. It would take a long time, much later, for him to realize that what he was feeling was called love. It was the yearning and eagerness to see someone. He had actually fallen for Tan Xilu long ago; he had just been slow to react, and he understood this truth too late.

 

When he arrived at the hospital, the ground was already covered with a layer of snow. Many children from the hospital had run outside to play with snowballs. As Xu Huaiming passed by them, he got accidentally hit.

 

Xu Huaiming brushed the snow off his clothes and called Tan Xilu again. He said, “I’m downstairs.”

 

A few minutes later, a familiar figure rushed out of the building. Tan Xilu looked worried, thinking that Xu Huaiming must be cold since he didn’t know that he had run all the way. He touched Xu Huaiming’s face, which had turned pale from the cold, and said, “Didn’t I say I’d be back later? The parents of my student are coming soon, and once they’re here, I can leave.”

 

“I know,” Xu Huaiming replied, looking at him, feeling a bit uncertain whether he had misread the situation. Tan Xilu didn’t seem to appreciate this little romantic gesture, and he continued, “Don’t you want to see me?”

 

“How could that be? I just thought it wasn’t necessary since we’ll be able to see each other soon anyway. But I’m really happy you came,” Tan Xilu said, tilting his head to give Xu Huaiming’s lips a gentle peck. “It’s so cold outside. Did you get cold?”

 

Xu Huaiming’s hand was pale and felt ice-cold. He was always cold, and his body temperature was consistently low. Sometimes, Tan Xilu would wake up in the middle of the night and touch Xu Huaiming’s hand, which would be so cold that it startled him. He would have to hold it against his own warm body to heat it up before they could sleep again.

 

Tan Xilu took the opportunity to warm Xu Huaiming’s hand with his own.

 

Xu Huaiming felt that something was off. Did Tan Xilu really not like this kind of small romantic gesture? He didn’t seem particularly excited, and Xu Huaiming furrowed his brow, feeling puzzled. “When I was on the phone earlier, I overheard a girl nearby saying that on the first snowy night, you should be with the person you like. So, I came here. But you don’t seem to have much of a reaction.”

 

Tan Xilu was momentarily taken aback, then suddenly burst into laughter.

 

In his student years, he would have certainly found this romantic, but now that he was approaching thirty, he found it somewhat childish. However, seeing Xu Huaiming, who had come to see him with such innocent and awkward intentions, did warm his heart with a touch of sweetness.

 

“Who said I didn’t react?” Tan Xilu grabbed the collar of Xu Huaiming’s clothes with both hands, forcing him to lower his head.

 

Xu Huaiming’s lips were as cold as his hands and feet, but that didn’t matter. Tan Xilu was warm, and he took the initiative to kiss him.

 

Before coming down, Tan Xilu had eaten oranges, and the sour taste lingered on his lips and teeth.

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 12: Clouds and Seas

 

The dimly lit hallway in the dark night was eerily quiet, and the sound of footsteps echoing in the serene space was rather unsettling. With a heavy heart, Xu Huaiming climbed to the second floor.

 

He had long memorized the password for the digital lock. A press of his fingers on the familiar numbers, and the door swung open.

 

Tan Xilu had told him the code shortly after he arrived here. It was during those days when Tan Xilu had gone missing, which was the source of his suffering.

 

Xu Huaiming had suggested changing the password, but Tan Xilu had refused, saying, “I’ve already gotten used to it.”

 

Xu Huaiming thought that was true. He had become accustomed to Tan Xilu’s absences, which is why he felt a surge of excitement when he returned. But once that excitement passed, everything would become calm again. Since he had grown accustomed to Tan Xilu’s departures, it meant that if he didn’t return someday, someone else would eventually fill the void beside Tan Xilu.

 

Xu Huaiming thought Professor Bowen was right. Human emotions were fickle. One moment, someone could say they loved you, and the next, they might be extremely annoyed with you. Therefore, he couldn’t allow himself to develop feelings for a human. He had never imagined that Tan Xilu would lie to him because of another man.

 

Taking a deep breath, he pushed the door open.

 

The TV was on in the living room, playing a soap opera from several years ago. Tan Xilu was sitting on the couch, watching it attentively.

 

Hearing the door, he turned his attention away from the TV and asked Xu Huaiming, who was changing his shoes in the hallway, “Back so soon?”

 

“Yeah.” Xu Huaiming slipped on his slippers and entered the kitchen to put the bags of salt down. He then walked back and said, “There weren’t many people at the supermarket at this time of night.”

 

Tan Xilu nodded and made room for Xu Huaiming on the couch.

 

Xu Huaiming took the opportunity to sit down and reached out to pull Tan Xilu into his arms.

 

Tan Xilu had a faint scent of men’s cologne on him, a subtle fragrance that he probably couldn’t even smell himself, but Xu Huaiming could. It was exactly the same as the person he had encountered earlier that evening.

 

Xu Huaiming furrowed his brows and covered Tan Xilu with a blanket, attempting to mask the discomfort he felt from that familiar scent.

 

Originally, Tan Xilu had been leaning on his shoulder, and after the blanket was placed over him, he seemed to find it more comfortable. He even reached out and wrapped his arm around Xu Huaiming’s waist. Xu Huaiming always had a slightly lower body temperature, making him feel different from a regular person. Every time they kissed, Xu Huaiming felt that his lips were unusually cold, while the person he kissed was as cold as ice.

 

But people had different body temperatures, and Tan Xilu wouldn’t question it because of that.

 

However, Tan Xilu’s passiveness, or rather, his honesty after lying, made Xu Huaiming uncomfortable. His thoughts were entangled, and even though he knew his place as just a companion to Xu Huaiming, and that he wouldn’t be one for much longer, he couldn’t help but ask, “Was the parent who gave you a ride back a man or a woman?”

 

His hand, which was holding onto Xu Huaiming’s waist, tightened slightly, and he looked up at Xu Huaiming with a somewhat evasive gaze. “A woman.”

 

Xu Huaiming fell silent for a moment, then made a soft “Hmm” sound and didn’t ask any further questions. But Tan Xilu felt a heavy atmosphere emanating from Xu Huaiming.

 

He opened his mouth, wanting to confess, but Xu Huaiming suddenly hugged him tightly, pressing his lips against Tan Xilu’s collarbone and teasingly grazing his teeth along it. A tingling sensation spread through Tan Xilu.

 

Feeling Xu Huaiming’s movements pause for a moment, Tan Xilu looked up at him, but the next second, Xu Huaiming covered his lips with his own.

 

Xu Huaiming was aggressive, with a wolf-like hunger. Tan Xilu felt like his mouth was slightly bloody by the end, and he was almost out of breath.

 

When it was over, the soap opera on the TV had already finished, and Xu Huaiming carried him to the bathroom. Tan Xilu was on the verge of falling asleep, and in a half-dream, half-awake state, he thought he heard someone whispering in his ear, “Let me stay by your side a little longer.”

 

However, whether that was a dream or a fantasy, he didn’t remember the next morning.

 

Tan Xilu was awakened by a phone call from Qin Sizhe. He had originally had a day off after the open class, a precious opportunity to sleep in, but his sweet dreams were interrupted. Nobody would be pleased by such a disruption, so he reluctantly answered the phone.

 

To his surprise, it wasn’t Qin Sizhe on the other end but a stranger’s voice.

 

Two minutes later, Tan Xilu rushed out of his bedroom, wearing a serious expression. He grabbed his coat and said to Xu Huaiming, who was preparing breakfast, “There’s an urgent matter at school, I have to leave.”

 

“So suddenly?” Xu Huaiming had just picked up a sandwich he had made for Tan Xilu to eat on the way, but before he could turn around, he heard the sound of the door closing.

 

He paused for a moment, standing still in silence. Ten minutes later, he turned around and put the sandwich into the refrigerator.

 

However, that momentary daze and desolation that passed through his heart suddenly caused him a sharp pang of pain.

 

Tan Xilu had stayed at his alma mater to teach two years ago. After graduating from graduate school, his advisor had a great opportunity for him to go abroad, but Tan Xilu had declined, saying he wanted to stay at the university.

 

His advisor knew that Tan Xilu had a boyfriend who had been missing for years. For the sake of that boyfriend, Tan Xilu gave up a guaranteed spot at a prestigious university and willingly settled for teaching at the local university. Now, he was even choosing to remain there.

 

His advisor shook his head, thinking this kid was really stubborn. However, he knew Tan Xilu’s temperament well. Once he made up his mind, it couldn’t be changed. Later on, his advisor’s nephew got into the same university, and his advisor sent him to Tan Xilu.

 

His nephew’s name was Qin Sizhe, the same student Xu Huaiming had seen holding hands with Tan Xilu when they came out of the closet.

 

Although the office wasn’t large, there were quite a few people inside, including teachers, students, and parents. Tan Xilu, facing the gaze of everyone, arrived late, panting as he entered the office. His rapid breathing had not yet settled when a hand forcefully grabbed his arm and pulled him aside. A sharp female voice said, “Teacher Tan, please help resolve this matter.”

 

Tan Xilu, sweating profusely, raised his head. The first thing he saw in his line of sight was a pair of legs wearing sneakers. As he looked up, he recognized Qin Sizhe’s familiar face. Qin Sizhe was tilting his head defiantly, as if he were dissatisfied. But behind him, a man grabbed his neck from behind, forcing him to lower his head.

 

Then Tan Xilu heard Qin Sizhe’s voice, loud enough to echo through the office, “I like men, what’s wrong with it? I’m gay!”

 

Five seconds later, the man behind him kicked his legs from behind, and Qin Sizhe knelt on the ground with a heavy thud. It was a hard landing, and the impact between his body and the hard floor sounded like bones breaking. However, Qin Sizhe bit his lip and didn’t make a sound.

 

Tan Xilu took a sharp breath, rushed over to help Qin Sizhe up, but was stopped by the woman who had spoken first. “Teacher Tan, although homosexuality is legal now, having Qin Sizhe and Teacher Tan engaging in inappropriate behavior in the school does affect the school’s image. You need to do something about it.”

 

“Where’s Professor Qin? Hasn’t he come?” Tan Xilu lifted his eyelids to look at the woman. “Ms. Zhang, I’m not Qin Sizhe’s advisor. If something has happened to him, you should first contact his advisor.”

 

Ms. Zhang choked, her voice faltering as she said, “But isn’t Qin Sizhe close to you, Teacher Tan?”

 

“They’re all my students; I treat everyone equally.” Tan Xilu removed Ms. Zhang’s hand from him and looked at the man behind Qin Sizhe. He frowned and asked, “Are you Qin Sizhe’s brother?”

 

“Sort of.” The man said, “My name is Chi Yexing. I’m Qin Sizhe’s apartment mate. His mother asked me to take care of him like a brother since I’m older.”

 

“Well, Mr. Chi, regardless of the child’s mistakes, resorting to violence is not the solution.” Tan Xilu looked at him. “Moreover, being gay is not a mistake.”

 

Chi Yexing made a cold snort from his nose, and he turned to look at Qin Sizhe, who was still struggling to stand up. He sneered, “Qin Sizhe’s family situation is special. In his family, no one is gay except him. Not to mention he brought someone to the school to mess around.”

 

“Just because I am Qin, does that mean I can’t control myself? Because of one woman’s one-sided words saying that I brought someone to the school to mess around, you’re going to believe it?” Qin Sizhe suddenly let out a furious roar, but his voice was hoarse. “Chi Yexing, when will you believe me? Will you ever stand by my side and speak up for me once?”

 

Qin Sizhe, who was a tall young man over 1.8 meters, whom Xu Huaiming often saw sprinting on the basketball court, when had he ever seen him looking so wronged, like a trapped, red-eyed little beast on the verge of tears?

 

Tan Xilu felt moved in his heart, wanting to help him up, but Chi Yexing suddenly kicked Qin Sizhe again before picking up his suit and dusting it off. He turned and walked away.

 

“Chi Yexing.” Qin Sizhe called out to him before he left.

 

But this time, Chi Yexing didn’t look back, and he left decisively.

 

“Chi Yexing.” Qin Sizhe called out to him once more.

 

But this time, Chi Yexing didn’t look back either, and he left without turning around.

 

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 11: More blooming feelings

 

Xu Huaiming didn’t see Tan Xilu at the entrance of the shop, which puzzled him. Tan Xilu wasn’t the type to leave without notice if something came up. He asked the fruit shop auntie nearby and learned that Tan Xilu had received a phone call at the entrance and hurriedly left.

 

With concern, Xu Huaiming dialed Tan Xilu’s number, but to his surprise, Tan Xilu immediately hung up.

 

Xu Huaiming was taken aback and dialed a few more times, but each call was consecutively declined. It was clear that Tan Xilu didn’t want to answer his calls. Sighing, Xu Huaiming thought that something must have come up with Tan Xilu.

 

He returned to the shop and told Arlene, “Let’s purchase more ingredients for tomorrow. Business has been good these days, and we might run out of supplies.”

 

“Alright,” Arlene agreed, then added, “Christmas is coming soon. Xu Ge, why don’t you make a special Christmas dessert?”

 

“Christmas?” Xu Huaiming asked.

 

“Yes, it’s just a week away,” Arlene smiled and took out a few Christmas stickers from behind the bar. “I bought these stickers yesterday, planning to put them on the door. Unfortunately, we’re still missing a Christmas tree. Xu Ge, you know…”

 

Xu Huaiming fell into a momentary silence. This was probably what it meant to like someone. 7 had to be replaced with something new here. In other words, he could also become outdated. As long as Tan Xilu didn’t like him anymore, got tired of him, someone new would come to replace him.

 

When Xu Huaiming called, Tan Xilu had just placed the hot water on the coffee table. He had wanted to answer, but his mother gave him a stern look. In the Tan family, there was an unwritten rule that when guests were present, you couldn’t rudely answer phone calls. So, Tan Xilu had to repeatedly hang up the call.

 

He thought Xu Huaiming would probably understand. He could explain it to him later in the evening.

 

“Xiao Li, my son’s job is quite stable now. He’s a university professor, just like me. It’s a family tradition. Our work isn’t too busy most of the time, except when students graduate and work on their theses. Your dessert shop, on the other hand, is busier during holidays and special occasions. It complements each other. With this arrangement, there will probably be fewer conflicts after marriage. Xiao Li, my son is easy to get along with. Even if he gets angry, just be patient with him, and if it really doesn’t work out, come to me, his mother, and I’ll talk some sense into him.”

 

“Mom… what are you saying?” Tan Xilu almost sprayed the water out of his mouth. They had just met, and she was already talking about marriage. Even a matchmaker wouldn’t be this hasty.

 

“What am I saying?” Tan’s mother rolled her eyes at him. “I’m just taking care of your lifelong matters.”

 

“Auntie, it’s okay. Xiao Lu seems very pleasant, how could I bear to get angry with him?” Li Zhao smiled and looked at Tan Xilu.

 

For some reason, Tan Xilu felt that Li Zhao’s gaze was somewhat teasing, making him feel uncomfortable.

 

“See, Xiao Li knows how to talk. My son is a bit tongue-tied. You’ll have to be more understanding in the future,” Tan’s mother laughed heartily. Suddenly, she exclaimed, “Oh, I almost forgot, I have a date with my friends later. You two can chat for now, and I’ll leave first.”

 

Tan Xilu was stunned and shouted, “Mom…”

 

Tan’s mother patted Tan Xilu’s shoulder with a smile and said, “I’ll leave you two to chat. Mom will be going now.”

 

Tan Xilu knew that his mother was giving them some alone time. There might be something she couldn’t say with her present. After all, this was a matter of the younger generation’s lifelong happiness, and she could only play the role of a matchmaker. Whether it worked out or not would depend on them.

 

“Then, Auntie, please take care and be safe. Do you want me to escort you?” Li Zhao stood up, ready to accompany her.

 

“No need, no need. I’m not suffering from dementia. Can’t I find my way?” Tan’s mother pressed her hand on Li Zhao’s shoulder and motioned for him to sit back down. “You two chat properly.”

 

With her departure, the atmosphere in the room immediately became awkward. Li Zhao lost his initial friendly expression, and the look he gave Tan Xilu became more provocative. “Auntie told me that your ex-boyfriend was also in the dessert business. I’m a bit curious. If we get married, would you treat me as a shadow of your ex?”

 

Staring at Li Zhao, Tan Xilu was momentarily slow to react. After a while, he replied, “No.”

 

He paused and added, “I won’t marry you.”

 

“Oh? Is it because you already have a partner?” Li Zhao leaned back on the sofa lazily, raising the corner of his mouth.

 

Tan Xilu was caught off guard and blushed. “You know…”

 

“Yeah,” Li Zhao smiled, sat up, and reached out to pinch Tan Xilu’s chin. He leaned closer and said, “You look pretty obedient. I can’t imagine what you’re like in bed.”

 

“You…” Perhaps he had never heard such a frivolous remark, and Tan Xilu was at a loss for words. He widened his eyes and quickly moved away from Li Zhao. “You shameless.”

 

Li Zhao couldn’t help but laugh again. “You’re quite interesting. You’re in a relationship and yet here you are on a blind date. Does your partner know? Or is it that you don’t really care about him? What does he do? Is he also in the dessert business, just like your ex-boyfriend? Are you playing the role of a stand-in again? Or maybe, you only look obedient, but you’re actually a little wildcat.”

 

“Why is that any of your business?” Tan Xilu was flushed with anger. What kind of person had his mother set him up with? He felt like he was on a date with a hooligan.

 

Li Zhao clicked his tongue. “I was just asking. Do you have to be so angry?”

 

The clock on the wall struck seven, and Xu Huaiming would be returning soon.

 

“That’s enough,” Tan Xilu stood up abruptly. “I’m not in the mood to continue this conversation. You should leave.”

 

“You’re kicking me out so urgently?” Li Zhao squinted his eyes. “Is it because your partner is coming back soon?”

 

Tan Xilu was taken aback by how Li Zhao had guessed the truth. He hesitated for a moment and mumbled, “It’s late, and if I don’t leave now, when will I leave?”

 

“Alright, I’ll leave then. Why are you in such a hurry? We’re not having an affair.” Li Zhao laughed.

 

While Li Zhao had been teasing Tan Xilu throughout their conversation, he left quite abruptly. He even closed the door behind him when he left.

 

Tan Xilu wasn’t good at chatting with strangers, especially those he didn’t know well. His few previous blind dates had ended because of his awkwardness. His excuses to his mother had included, “He’s too quiet and just daydreams all the time,” “He got overly emotional when talking about his past relationships,” and “I don’t think we’re compatible, and he’s not warming up to my conversations.” Tan Xilu knew he had his flaws, but he was naturally clumsy. Perhaps it was because he had been pampered by Xu Huaiming for too long, and everything had been initiated by him. He had never needed to think about these things.

 

As Tan Xilu slowly tidied up the cups on the table, he thought about it. He should try to keep the blind date a secret from Xu Huaiming. His partner was so sensitive, and he would definitely be upset. Besides, he wouldn’t have any more dealings with someone like Li Zhao in the future.

 

Today, the shop wasn’t very busy. Perhaps it was because of the cold weather and the fact that it wasn’t the weekend. After bidding farewell to the last customer, Xu Huaiming packed up and prepared to close the shop. He told Arlene, “You can use some money to buy a Christmas tree yourself, and we’ll add it to the budget later.”

 

“No problem, Xu Ge,” Arlene replied. “Oh, by the way, if you have any questions about the little surprise, you can ask me.”

 

“Sure,” Xu Huaiming said. “Thank you.”

 

“You’re welcome. In the future, Xu Ge should give me a raise,” Arlene joked.

 

“Sure,” Xu Huaiming replied.

 

Xu Huaiming rushed to catch the last bus back to his residential area. When he got on the bus, he called Tan Xilu again, and this time, Tan Xilu answered. Tan Xilu sounded somewhat apologetic, “I’m sorry about earlier. When I was at the entrance, I received a call from a student’s parent, and I had to go back to school to resolve it. Later, the parent gave me a ride back home since it was on the way. I had to hang up when you called. I hope you’re not upset.”

 

“I’m not upset. As long as you’re okay,” Xu Huaiming reassured him.

 

Tan Xilu responded with a soft “Okay,” feeling a bit guilty. “Are you on the bus now? You should be almost back.”

 

“Yeah, I’m on the bus. I’ll be back soon,” Xu Huaiming confirmed.

 

“Great. It seems we’re out of salt at home. Could you pick up a bag from the supermarket on your way back?” Tan Xilu asked.

 

“Sure, I got it,” Xu Huaiming replied.

 

They chatted affectionately for a while and hung up the phone just as Xu Huaiming was arriving at his destination. He got off the bus through the rear exit and, noticing the newly stocked strawberry-flavored condoms on the supermarket shelves, hesitated briefly before grabbing two boxes.

 

Inside the residential area, as Xu Huaiming walked, he encountered a man who glanced up at him. Although they didn’t exchange words, Xu Huaiming felt a strong sense of hostility emanating from the man. He paused for a moment, but the man continued walking forward without turning back.

 

Xu Huaiming’s senses were overly sensitive, and he could still smell the man’s presence in the air. He could discern that this man carried the scent of Tan Xilu.

 

He also realized that Tan Xilu had lied to him. There was no such thing as a parent of a student who needed his attention. Instead, it seemed that this stranger had given him a ride home, or perhaps, he had given him more than a ride home after all.

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 10: Monica

 

When Tan Xilu arrived at the dessert shop, it was just 5 o’clock in the afternoon. Tea time had already passed at this hour, but the place was still quite crowded. The reason was none other than the fact that Xu Huaiming was a handsome owner.

 

In truth, Tan Xilu was a bit puzzled. It seemed like Xu Huaiming hadn’t changed much from seven years ago. There was hardly any difference. Back then, he had a lot of young ladies swooning over him, which had kept the dessert shop in business.

 

Xu Huaiming and Arlene were putting the final fruit decorations on the cakes when they heard the bell ring. Arlene was the first to lift her head and said, “Teacher Tan is here!”

 

Xu Huaiming placed the last small cherry on the cake before looking up at Tan Xilu and smiling. “Is the class over?”

 

Tan Xilu nodded and walked over to the counter, taking a seat. “It ended smoothly.”

 

Xu Huaiming reached out and tousled his hair, pushing the cake toward him. “Arlene failed several times before finally making this cake. Want to taste it?”

 

“Really? Arlene made this?” Tan Xilu glanced at Arlene, who smiled awkwardly and said, “This cake is quite technical, too difficult to make.”

 

“Then I’ll give it a try.” Tan Xilu took a fork and scooped up a bite.

 

“Not bad, it’s quite sweet,” Tan Xilu praised after taking a bite.

 

“Really?” Arlene was pleasantly surprised.

 

“Wow, this cake looks so beautiful, and it must be delicious!” Several young ladies who had just entered the shop rushed over to the counter. “Can we taste it? If it’s good, we don’t mind buying one.”

 

“Ah?” Arlene clearly hadn’t expected anyone to like it and was momentarily stunned.

 

“No need to buy; the cake hasn’t officially gone on sale yet. Go ahead and taste it,” Xu Huaiming pushed the cake towards them. “If you find it tasty, it’ll be a big encouragement for our little sister here.”

 

“Of course, of course, with a cake this beautiful, how could it not be delicious?” the young ladies smiled.

 

Encouraged by Tan Xilu’s endorsement, Arlene started chatting with the young ladies about the cake.

 

With some free time, Xu Huaiming said to Tan Xilu, “Let’s go inside.”

 

Xu Huaiming was remarkably efficient; while teaching Arlene, he still managed to prepare the desserts that Tan Xilu wanted to try.

 

Lately, Tan Xilu had developed a preference for matcha cake. Xu Huaiming served him a bowl of hot pearl milk tea with extra toppings, filling it to the brim.

 

Tan Xilu sipped on it, and the black pearls in his mouth provided a satisfying sensation. That’s why people often say that eating sweets can make you happy.

 

But aside from Tan Xilu enjoying sweets, Xu Huaiming also indulged in them, except his sweet treat was Tan Xilu himself.

 

Tan Xilu didn’t quite understand why Xu Huaiming loved kissing so much. When he emerged from the inner room, his lips were tinted red.

 

Arlene had just seen off a group of customers and was puzzled by Tan Xilu’s unusually flushed complexion. “Teacher Tan, is the air conditioning too hot in the inner room? Why is your face so red?”

 

Upon hearing this, Tan Xilu blushed even more and didn’t dare to answer Arlene. He hastily mumbled that he needed some fresh air and hurried outside.

 

A few minutes later, Xu Huaiming emerged from the inner room. Unlike Tan Xilu, his face wasn’t red, his heart wasn’t racing, but there was a small cut at the corner of his mouth.

 

He had originally planned to take a breather outside, but as soon as Tan Xilu stepped out, his mother called.

 

In the past couple of years, Tan’s mother had recently retired. She enjoyed her days, receiving a pension from the government, dancing in the square with her friends, going on dining trips and travels. Occasionally, she would attend one of Tan Xilu’s classes at his school. On the surface, she seemed carefree, but her greatest concern remained her beloved son’s personal issues.

 

Ninety percent of the time, when she called, it was to introduce potential partners to Tan Xilu. The remaining ten percent was spent discussing other matters before she inquired about whether Tan Xilu had found someone.

 

His phone vibrated once again, and Tan Xilu sighed as he answered it.

 

As he expected, the first words from Tan’s mother were, “Xiao Lu, have you found anyone suitable recently?”

 

Before Tan Xilu could respond, she continued, “It’s okay if you haven’t. You know, Zhang Auntie’s uncle’s sister’s cousin’s niece’s son is of marriageable age now. He came out to his family a few years ago and hasn’t found the right match yet. I’ve seen that young man; he’s tall at 1.9 meters, and he’s also in the dessert business. I’m sure you’ll like him.”

 

“Mom… I…”

 

His mother grew impatient, “Don’t ‘Mom’ me. Look, you’re not getting any younger. I just want to see you get married while I’m still alive. Is that too much to ask?”

 

“Mom, I already have…”

 

“Alright, I’m already downstairs in your neighborhood, and I brought that young man with me. Please come back quickly, let’s meet, just once, okay?”

 

Tan’s mother had already made her biggest concession by bringing the person along. She couldn’t just take him back now.

 

There was a pause on the other end of the phone, followed by hurried footsteps, and then Tan Xilu’s voice came through urgently, “Mom, don’t come in yet. The house is not tidy. You can find a nearby place for tea; I’ll be there soon.”

 

Tan’s mother always believed that the future son-in-law should see her son’s living environment with his own eyes for better understanding and compatibility. Although Tan Xilu felt uncomfortable bringing a stranger to his home for the first meeting, he couldn’t refuse his mother’s request. So, he had to endure it.

 

It wasn’t the first time that Tan’s mother had brought a potential partner to his home.

 

Considering that her son might be living a rough life on his own, she thought that this young man might become her son’s future son-in-law. The first impression had to be positive. So, she said, “Alright, hurry up then.”

 

After hanging up the phone, Tan’s mother felt a bit embarrassed and said to Li Zhao, “I’m sorry about this. Xiao Lu is still busy. Let’s go for some tea first; he’ll be here soon.”

 

“It’s okay, Auntie. Waiting a bit longer is no problem,” Li Zhao smiled. “Good things take time.”

 

Tan’s mother looked at Li Zhao with relief. She thought he was a good kid, much better than Tan Xilu’s ex-boyfriend, whom she hadn’t wanted to meet for the past seven years.

 

Tan Xilu knew his mother was worried about his marriage. She had arranged several blind dates before, with both boys and girls, but they had always been scheduled in advance, and he was informed about them. This was the first time she had directly brought someone over and then informed him. He understood that his mother was genuinely anxious.

 

He also knew that his mother didn’t like Xu Huaiming, so they couldn’t meet yet. She couldn’t trust someone who had disappeared from her son’s life for seven years. She would probably slap him as soon as she saw Xu Huaiming.

 

Before his mother arrived, Tan Xilu tidied up the place, making sure it didn’t look like it was inhabited by two people. Then, he called his mother and said, “You can come up now.”

 

Li Zhao seemed like a very talkative person. When they were going upstairs, Tan Xilu could hear his mother laughing in the hallway. His mother was a university professor, a refined woman. The fact that she was laughing like this indicated that she was quite pleased with Li Zhao. Thinking about it, Tan Xilu realized that his mother might have a hard time accepting Xu Huaiming.

 

As he opened the door, his mother and Li Zhao had just arrived at the entrance. His mother didn’t seem pleased when she saw that Tan Xilu was wearing a simple home outfit. “I told you we were meeting someone; why are you dressed like this?”

 

Tan Xilu changed into another home outfit, his hair disheveled and a few strands standing on end, making him look like he had just woken up. “It’s okay, Auntie. This way, it’s more authentic, isn’t it?” Li Zhao’s gaze lingered on Tan Xilu’s body, appraising him.

 

“Well, that’s true,” Tan’s mother thought. Since they would be living together sooner or later, it made sense to adapt in advance.

 

Tan Xilu noticed that Li Zhao’s gaze wasn’t very polite and frowned as he looked at him.

 

Li Zhao did indeed look good. He was probably about the same height as Xu Huaiming but had a different style of handsomeness. Xu Huaiming had the initial impression of being aloof but turned out to be a warm and friendly type upon getting to know him. In contrast, Li Zhao’s first impression was more like a smooth talker.

 

It was no wonder he could make Tan’s mother so happy, but Tan Xilu didn’t particularly like him.

 

“Come on in, have a seat first,” Tan’s mother invited Li Zhao, leading him inside by the arm. “What would you like to drink? I’ll have Xiao Lu make it for you.”

 

While Tan Xilu was boiling water, he had a nagging feeling that he had forgotten something, but he couldn’t quite remember what it was. However, when he saw Li Zhao coming out of the bathroom after holding a pot of hot water, he suddenly recalled it. He seemed to have forgotten to empty the trash bag in the bathroom.

 

It had happened the previous night when he and Xu Huaiming had a bit to drink. After using the bathroom, he had thrown some items into the trash can and hadn’t had a chance to clean it up yet. He wasn’t sure if Li Zhao had seen it.

 

However, Li Zhao sat back on the sofa with an expressionless face. Tan Xilu was relieved, thinking that Li Zhao probably hadn’t noticed. Otherwise, it would be quite embarrassing to discover such things when you came for a blind date.

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 9: An Unexpected Memory

 

Lin Zhiyuan stood at the office door and lightly tapped his knuckles on it twice.

 

A voice from inside responded, “Just a moment.”

 

After a few seconds, the door was pulled open, revealing a Mediterranean-looking senior professor. He glanced at Lin Zhiyuan and hesitated for a moment before recognizing him. “You’re Professor Lin, right?”

 

Lin Zhiyuan smiled faintly, “You can just call me Lin.”

 

“Well, that won’t do. Professor Lin is so young and already a professor. We older folks should learn from you,” the Mediterranean professor greeted him. “Come in, it’s cold outside.”

 

Lin Zhiyuan followed the Mediterranean professor into the office. The office was warm, thanks to the heating, and upon entering, he immediately felt a wave of warmth. At this time, there weren’t many teachers in the office. The Mediterranean professor had stayed to help some students with their paper revisions.

 

At the desk in the far corner, Tan Xilu was also busy. His public lecture was scheduled for the afternoon, and to avoid any last-minute issues, he hadn’t gone home for lunch, planning to have Xu Huaiming bring him a packed meal.

 

“Professor Lin, Professor Tan is over there,” the Mediterranean professor pointed to Tan Xilu’s desk, raising his voice a bit. “Professor Tan, Professor Lin is here.”

 

Tan Xilu was immersed in his work when he was suddenly called, causing him to startle. His whole body shivered, and he looked up to see Lin Zhiyuan. Tan Xilu acknowledged, “Professor Lin is here.”

 

Lin Zhiyuan made a sound of agreement and moved to the chair next to Tan Xilu’s desk, taking a seat.

 

Seeing this, the Mediterranean professor said, “Well, I’ll leave you two to chat. I’ll get back to my work.”

 

“Sure, thank you,” Lin Zhiyuan smiled.

 

After the Mediterranean professor went back to his desk, Lin Zhiyuan turned to Tan Xilu and asked, “Professor Tan, is there anything else I can help with?”

 

“Not at the moment,” Tan Xilu replied. He continued typing with one hand and reached for a document in a nearby folder with the other. He placed the document in front of Lin Zhiyuan and said, “Professor Lin, please take a look at this. It’s for our class later, some pre-class preparation.”

 

“Alright,” Lin Zhiyuan said.

 

Tan Xilu had received notice from his superiors two days ago. Originally, it was supposed to be his solo public lecture, but due to a collaboration project with the neighboring department, the school decided that this time, two professors from different departments would jointly teach a class. Lin Zhiyuan was the professor from the neighboring department.

 

The document that Tan Xilu handed to Lin Zhiyuan contained questions for in-class discussion. This was Tan Xilu’s teaching style, and he liked to ask impromptu questions. Luckily, he taught Chinese literature, so the questions and answers were not particularly difficult, making his public lectures quite effective.

 

Lin Zhiyuan skimmed through a few questions but soon found himself lost in thought. He pushed his chair back slightly, tilting his posture to the side. However, this allowed him to discreetly observe Tan Xilu, who was deeply engrossed in his work.

 

Thinking back to the day when he had accompanied Tan Xilu home and had seen someone who looked similar to him downstairs, Lin Zhiyuan couldn’t help but wonder. Was it because of that person? Had Tan Xilu undergone such a significant change because of that person?

 

“Ah…”

 

Suddenly, a piece of paper floated over and landed on the floor next to Lin Zhiyuan due to Tan Xilu’s unintentional action while typing. He thought he could catch it, but the paper flew farther than expected.

 

Not wanting to trouble others, Lin Zhiyuan decided to pick it up himself. However, Tan Xilu had the same idea and reached the paper first. Lin Zhiyuan’s long legs and proximity to the paper allowed him to reach it without getting up, while Tan Xilu had to stand up and retrieve it.

 

Lin Zhiyuan’s fingertips touched the paper first, and he handed it over to Tan Xilu, saying, “Here.”

 

“Thank you,” Tan Xilu said, taking the paper.

 

Lin Zhiyuan had initially considered looking at Tan Xilu’s face more closely, but when he looked up, he saw two ambiguous kiss marks on Tan Xilu’s exposed neck. He was taken aback for a moment and quickly averted his gaze.

 

Tan Xilu was oblivious to Lin Zhiyuan’s gaze. He returned to his seat and continued typing on his keyboard.

 

It was Lin Zhiyuan who seemed somewhat unsettled now. He couldn’t get those two vivid kiss marks out of his mind. Tan Xilu appeared different from the person he had met during their blind date, and Lin Zhiyuan was beginning to suspect something he didn’t want to believe.

 

Was Tan Xilu in a romantic relationship with that person?

 

Was their initial meeting due to the resemblance between Lin Zhiyuan and that person?

 

Did Tan Xilu hesitate to kiss him because he felt that Lin Zhiyuan was never the one he truly wanted?

 

Lin Zhiyuan sighed inwardly. It seemed he had almost been deceived.

 

His phone on the table vibrated, and Lin Zhiyuan picked it up. After a brief conversation, Tan Xilu on the other end made him smile genuinely.

 

Lin Zhiyuan couldn’t help but wonder who had such a significant influence on Tan Xilu.

 

As soon as the call ended, Tan Xilu saved his work and told Lin Zhiyuan quietly, “I’m sorry, I need to step out for a moment.”

 

With that, he stood up and grabbed his coat hanging on the nearby rack.

 

As Tan Xilu walked out, Lin Zhiyuan also stood up and followed him.

 

“Why are you…” Tan Xilu looked at Xu Huaiming’s somewhat silly expression, feeling a mixture of amusement and tenderness. “The thermal lunchbox keeps the food warm, but you’re hugging it.”

 

“I was afraid it wouldn’t stay hot enough, and I didn’t want you to eat something cold,” Xu Huaiming explained.

 

“You silly,” Tan Xilu couldn’t help but laugh.

 

Xu Huaiming was being so kind to him.

 

Meanwhile, Lin Zhiyuan stood in a nearby pavilion, watching Tan Xilu’s smiling face. The man standing in front of Tan Xilu was the one who resembled him. The first time Lin Zhiyuan had seen that person, he exuded an icy, aloof aura that made him seem distant and unapproachable. However, just like Tan Xilu, when he was with Tan Xilu, he seemed to relax completely, and there was a hint of indulgent affection in his smile.

 

So, this was the type of person Tan Xilu liked.

 

Xu Huaiming reached out and ruffled Tan Xilu’s hair, and Tan Xilu obediently let him, his face filled with a smile. It was the same kind of smile Lin Zhiyuan had heard in Tan Xilu’s voice during their phone call. Suddenly, Lin Zhiyuan remembered his previous lover. When they were together, his ex had often smiled like that.

 

He couldn’t help but wonder: Was Tan Xilu in a romantic relationship with that person?

 

Had their initial meeting been because Lin Zhiyuan resembled that person?

 

Did Tan Xilu hesitate to kiss him because he felt that Lin Zhiyuan was never the one he truly wanted?

 

Lin Zhiyuan sighed quietly. It seemed he had almost been deceived.

 

The winter sky wasn’t as blue as it should be, filtered through a haze of gray and white. However, the temperature today wasn’t too low, perhaps because the sun was shining. The clouds in his line of sight appeared hazy and scattered, but it was pleasantly warm.

 

Tan Xilu and Xu Huaiming shared a long kiss, and it was Xu Huaiming who eventually pulled away.

 

Xu Huaiming touched Tan Xilu’s lips and said, “The food might get cold if we stay here too long. You should go up and eat.”

 

Tan Xilu realized that he had lingered at the entrance for quite a while and nodded, “I’ll head up first. The public lecture in the afternoon ends early. You don’t need to pick me up later; I’ll come to the dessert shop.”

 

“Okay,” Xu Huaiming replied, “I’ll make a new dessert for you.”

 

Tan Xilu nodded and smiled.

 

As Tan Xilu’s figure disappeared from sight, Xu Huaiming turned and walked away from the campus.

 

Back at the dessert shop, Arlene was busy preparing a cup of bubble tea. When she saw Xu Huaiming return, she smiled and said, “Brother Xu is back.”

 

Arlene had proactively applied for a job at Xu Huaiming’s shop when it first reopened. She had been a loyal customer for years, and even Tan Xilu recognized her. Seven or eight years ago, she had frequented the shop because of the delicious desserts Xu Huaiming made.

 

Xu Huaiming couldn’t help but wonder. Xu Huaiming looked the same as he did seven years ago. He hadn’t changed much, and back then, his shop had always been busy because of his good looks, attracting a lot of young girls to have a crush on him.

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 8: I Like You

 

Xu Huaiming couldn’t dream. He was an advanced AI, and although he could enter a state similar to shallow sleep by closing his eyes, it was actually a time for intelligent recharging. He was a top-tier AI, and the developers had designed him to avoid the traditional AI’s need for a data cable for charging. Similar to his ability to consume food, his energy lasted for a month, and he only needed to recharge once he returned to the laboratory.

 

But this time, as he closed his eyes for recharging, Xu Huaiming suddenly had an image of Tan Xilu in his mind.

 

He saw Tan Xilu returning home alone, sitting on the sofa, engrossed in watching TV. However, the TV screen was full of static, as there was no signal. Tan Xilu seemed oblivious to it. After a while, he turned off the TV and called out for Xu Huaiming.

 

The room remained silent, and Tan Xilu seemed to realize that Xu Huaiming had already “died.” He got up, feeling hungry, and decided to make something to eat. In the fridge, there was only half a bag of frozen dumplings. Tan Xilu clumsily took them out, boiled some water, and put the dumplings in.

 

The water in the pot had been boiling for who knows how long, but Tan Xilu was lost in thought, not paying attention. It wasn’t until the water overflowed onto the countertop that he snapped out of it. In a hurry, he started putting the dumplings one by one into the pot, but he was too rushed, and hot water splashed onto his hand, turning it red.

 

Furrowing his brow, Tan Xilu licked the burned spot on the back of his hand with his slightly reddened tongue. The pot was about to overflow again, and Tan Xilu scrambled to find a spoon to stir it.

 

When the dumplings were finally cooked, it had been twenty minutes. Tan Xilu hadn’t managed the timing well, and the dumplings were overcooked, with the skin torn and the filling leaking out. Tan Xilu scooped them out with a strainer, losing a considerable amount of filling, and ended up with a strange-looking bowl of dumplings from half a bag.

 

Tan Xilu looked at the dumplings with a hint of regret, but reluctantly started eating. After a while, he suddenly became lost in thought.

 

Xu Huaiming found it strange, unable to understand why Tan Xilu had been absent-minded all day. After a while, he suddenly heard Tan Xilu’s lips move. He listened carefully and eventually heard Tan Xilu say, “Xu Huaiming, why haven’t you come back yet? I can’t cook, and I’m starving.”

 

When he opened his eyes again, Xu Huaiming found that it was a bit warm inside the charging chamber. He hesitated for a moment, then pushed open the hatch.

 

Professor Bowen saw him coming out and placed the AI dog he was holding on the ground. “Fully charged?”

 

Xu Huaiming responded with a “hm.” The AI dog trotted over to him and licked his shoes, barking twice.

 

Xu Huaiming crouched down and petted its lifelike fur, saying, “Little A, have you almost forgotten about me?”

 

“Yeah,” Professor Bowen replied. “The day after you left, it went to your space to look for you. After a week, it started hanging out with 059.”

 

“059? Wasn’t he developed by Dr. Zhou to accompany him?”

 

Professor Bowen nodded. “That’s right, but the little childhood friend that Dr. Zhou liked was rescued by someone, and 059 was sent to the smelting furnace to be destroyed. However, Little A pulled him out of the furnace, but 059’s programming was damaged, and now he doesn’t remember anything.”

 

Xu Huaiming didn’t know what to say for a moment. 059’s development was indeed for Dr. Zhou’s childhood friend, and now that the friend had returned, 059 was no longer needed. It was normal for him to be destroyed.

 

“Forget about him. What about you? Are you doing well in that human’s home?” Professor Bowen asked.

 

At this point, Xu Huaiming finally couldn’t help but voice his doubts. “Professor Bowen, can AI’s heart rate increase because of humans?”

 

Professor Bowen was taken aback for a moment and furrowed his brow. “Your heart rate has increased because of that human?”

 

Xu Huaiming didn’t answer; he neither confirmed nor denied it.

 

Professor Bowen suddenly became angry. “Xu Huaiming, have you forgotten what I told you when you left the laboratory?”

 

Xu Huaiming released the AI dog, slowly stood up, and looked at the professor, his eyes showing some uncertainty.

 

He couldn’t forget, and he couldn’t possibly forget. He had no memory bias; any words he had heard would be firmly imprinted in his mind. When he went to find Tan Xilu that day, Professor Bowen had told him not to fall in love with humans. AI and humans couldn’t have a future.

 

Xu Huaiming had agreed, and he didn’t think he would like humans. Even after he had sex with Tan Xilu that day, he didn’t think he liked Tan Xilu. But the words he had said, “I love you,” had made Xu Huaiming’s heart skip a beat.

 

Being with Tan Xilu was his task as an AI. Probably no one could imagine that an AI would be created by another AI. Xu Huaiming was a replica of No. 7, and No. 7 was well aware of his emotional shortcomings. He had avoided all of them in Xu Huaiming. The created Xu Huaiming, in a sense, was a perfect boyfriend.

 

But what No. 7 had reserved was that the Xu Huaiming he developed wouldn’t have human emotions. No. 7 was selfish; he didn’t want another AI to like Tan Xilu. Tan Xilu could only be his. However, just as his development error had caused Xu Huaiming to arrive seven years later, he had created Xu Huaiming with emotions. Yet, this was something the slow-witted Xu Huaiming couldn’t discover on his own.

 

“However, Professor, I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I think I don’t like him, but it’s strange.” Xu Huaiming seemed troubled, not understanding what was happening to him.

 

“It’s an illusion,” Professor Bowen said. “No. 7 has input too many programs into you. Those programs are telling you to be nicer to that human, and you’re feeling more ‘compassion’ towards him. It’s not love, it’s not like, you just ‘pity’ him. Do you understand?”

 

“Is that so?” Xu Huaiming looked a bit dazed. But during charging, the image of Tan Xilu in his mind had looked so desolate that he couldn’t help but go to him immediately, hug him, kiss him, and tell him, “I’m back, you don’t need to be afraid.”

 

Was it because he pitied him?

 

“That’s right,” Professor Bowen affirmed. “Humans’ emotions are fickle, and the novelty is only temporary. For example, in these seven years, even though he hasn’t found someone else, he’s about to forget about you. When you return, he’ll be excited for a while, but as time goes on, he’ll become bored. And after he gets tired of you or he dies, you’ll always come back. So, don’t think you’ll like him. You don’t have emotions.”

 

Xu Huaiming nodded without saying a word, not challenging Professor Bowen’s statement.

 

Indeed, he had no emotions, so how could he possibly like Tan Xilu? He only needed to fulfill Tan Xilu’s requirements and be good to him until Tan Xilu no longer wanted to be with him. Then he would obediently return to the laboratory.

 

Tan Xilu had been sitting in his office for the whole afternoon, working on revising a lesson plan. He had a public lecture next week, and this time, the dean might be attending, along with some professors from the neighboring department. The success of the public lecture was linked to his year-end bonus, and if the professors were satisfied and it went smoothly, he could plan a trip with Xu Huaiming during the upcoming Lunar New Year.

 

In the office, he was the only teacher left; the others had already gone home since they had no classes. The sound of typing on the keyboard echoed in the quiet office, somewhat jarring, but Tan Xilu heaved a sigh of relief when he finally finished.

 

He had finally completed the revisions.

 

He glanced at the clock on the computer, realizing it was already past 6 PM. Looking out the window, he saw that it was getting dark early in winter, and the lights outside the corridor had already come on.

 

Tan Xilu shut down his computer, packed his things, and headed out. As he closed the office door, he checked his phone for messages.

 

He had lost track of time, and Xu Huaiming hadn’t called or sent a message. This made Tan Xilu feel a bit uneasy, but only a bit. Xu Huaiming was very indulgent towards him, and he wasn’t likely to refuse him for anything.

 

The sky had darkened, and the school’s streetlights were brightly lit. Various couples sat on the grassy lawn. It was an overcast day with thick clouds obscuring the moon and stars. Without the streetlights, it would have been pitch dark.

 

The nearest route from the office to the school gate took about ten minutes. Tan Xilu called Xu Huaiming while walking, and after two rings, Xu Huaiming answered.

 

“Are you still waiting for me at the school gate?” Tan Xilu asked. “I lost track of time while revising the lesson plan. Have you been waiting for a long time?”

 

“Not too long, but you did keep me waiting at the dessert shop for quite a while,” Xu Huaiming replied. “I just came out a moment ago, and Arin is watching over things there.”

 

In reality, it was different. Xu Huaiming had left the lab a little after 4 PM and had come straight to the school gate to wait for Tan Xilu. Today, there weren’t many customers at the dessert shop, but he hadn’t expected Tan Xilu to be delayed for so long. He had waited for almost two hours, but he didn’t intend to mention any of this to Tan Xilu.

 

“Got it,” Tan Xilu said. “I’m on my way. Sorry for making you wait.”

 

Tan Xilu increased his pace. It was so cold, and he wondered why Xu Huaiming hadn’t called or messaged to ask when he would be coming out. Waiting outside for so long could lead to catching a cold.

 

As Tan Xilu hurried out of the school gate, the cold wind hit his face, making it sting. His nose turned red, and his eyes teared up, but when he saw Xu Huaiming waiting at the school gate, he suddenly felt warm.

 

Xu Huaiming walked over, and since he was taller, he blocked the wind for Tan Xilu. He looked at Tan Xilu’s reddened nose and decided to wrap his own white scarf around it.

 

Xu Huaiming didn’t feel the cold as humans did, and he didn’t really need a scarf, but Tan Xilu always asked him to wear one, so he complied. Now, seeing how cold Tan Xilu was, he wrapped his scarf around him.

 

“Aren’t you cold?” Tan Xilu put his hands in Xu Huaiming’s pocket and raised his chin to suggest that Xu Huaiming should put his hands in too. “I’ve been walking for ten minutes, and my face is frozen. Why does your complexion look so normal?”

 

Tan Xilu put his hands inside the pockets and touched Xu Huaiming’s hand.

 

“Ouch,” Xu Huaiming said, touching Tan Xilu’s hand. “Your hands are so cold.” Despite saying this, he held onto Tan Xilu’s hand.

 

Xu Huaiming asked, “Is that so? Are you very cold?”

 

Tan Xilu replied, “Yeah, it’s really cold.”

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!

Chapter 7: Outsider

 

“Tsk, how do you talk to your mother?” Lin Manling sneered. “Where is your upbringing that your useless father taught you?”

 

“Eaten by a dog,” Lin Changyu replied, looking at her. “You’re crazy, just go back.”

 

“Oh, can’t I visit my son?” Lin Manling ignored Lin Changyu’s words and turned her gaze to Lin Xiaozhi behind him. “Son, do you miss Mommy?”

 

Lin Xiaozhi seemed a bit afraid of Lin Manling and took a few steps back, tugging at Lin Changyu’s sleeve. “Brother, can you close the door?”

 

Hearing Lin Xiaozhi’s request, Lin Manling’s expression changed, and she began to mock them. “You don’t even recognize your own mother. Both of you are lunatics.”

 

Seemingly uninterested, she made a mocking sound and took out a card from her bag, tossing it through the crack in the door. “The court ordered child support will be deposited regularly. You heartless brats.”

 

With that, she walked down the stairs, her high heels tapping loudly on the floor.

 

Tan Xilu watched her disappear at the stairwell and then turned to Lin Changyu, wanting to ask something. However, Lin Changyu only gave him a cold look and closed the door.

 

After that day, Lin Changyu’s home became quiet, and he didn’t bring fruits to Tan Xilu anymore. If it weren’t for one day when Lin Xiaozhi rushed over to Tan Xilu’s door in a hurry, he might have thought they had moved away.

 

Lin Xiaozhi told him that his brother had attempted suicide.

 

Tan Xilu was shocked, and when he entered their home, he realized the situation was even worse than he had imagined. He had never paid much attention to Lin Changyu’s arms before, but now he saw that his wrists had many cuts, some of which were clearly old wounds, and it was a distressing sight.

 

Fortunately, they had found him in time and rushed him to the hospital.

 

It was only then that Tan Xilu learned about the hidden aspects of Lin Changyu’s life.

 

Lin Changyu came from a blended family. Lin Manling was his stepmother, and Lin Xiaozhi was the child of Lin Manling and his father. After his biological father passed away, Lin Manling remarried, and her current husband was a nouveau riche who smoked and drank excessively. While he treated Lin Manling well, it wasn’t the same for Lin Changyu and Lin Xiaozhi.

 

Lin Manling had her own job, running a beauty salon. Sometimes, she would be so busy that she wouldn’t come home for several days. During those times, if they were unlucky, Lin Changyu and Lin Xiaozhi might be beaten severely and locked in the basement until she returned, not allowing them to tell Lin Manling.

 

Walking a dark path too often, you’re bound to encounter ghosts. One day, Lin Manling coincidentally saw the nouveau riche abusing the children. She, protective of her own biological son, allowed Lin Changyu to escape from that home.

 

But what they didn’t expect was that in just a few days, Lin Xiaozhi called him for help. After all, they were blood relatives, and Lin Changyu had always protected Lin Xiaozhi. Lin thought that with Lin Manling around, Xiaozhi would have a better life. However, Lin Xiaozhi said, “Mom thinks I’m useless and hits me too.”

 

So, the two children hid in this apartment building, seeking refuge for a while.

 

“But I hate her so much. It’s because of her that we’ve become like this. She didn’t save us, she pushed us into the abyss,” Lin Changyu cried, his face crumpled in despair. “I’ll never forget the way I looked at her, hoping she’d take me with her, but she just gave me a cold look, took Xiaozhi away, and told that man, ‘Do whatever you want. I’m taking my son.'”

 

Hidden depression, also known as high-functioning depression, is a special form of depression where the person appears cheerful in front of others but exhibits signs of sadness and despair when alone.

 

As Tan Xilu listened to the story, he couldn’t help feeling sympathy for Lin Changyu. However, he also felt a strange resistance to this human condition. What about Tan Xilu himself? Would he go through the same struggles? Would he contemplate death during countless nights? Did he have scars on his wrists too?

 

Without Tan Xilu noticing, his eyes had already fallen on Tan Xilu’s wrist, hidden beneath his sleeves.

 

“So, every family has its own difficulties. I can only try to help Changyu manage his emotions. I’m not him, and I can’t forcibly control what he does. Depression is complicated, and he needs to come to terms with it. It’s a pity to have a stepmother like that…” Tan Xilu said, his mouth feeling a bit dry. He picked up a glass of lukewarm water from the coffee table and drank it.

 

Xu Huaiming noticed Tan Xilu’s smooth and fair wrists, and he breathed a sigh of relief.

 

He hadn’t thought about death. That was good.

 

“Oh, by the way, those two kids probably haven’t eaten yet. How about you prepare something for them and take it over?” Tan Xilu placed his glass back on the table, and the glass made a “clink” sound as it touched the surface.

 

“Sure,” Xu Huaiming agreed.

 

Tan Xilu stood up, stretched lazily, and his shirt rode up, revealing a slender and fair waist. He didn’t notice it himself, but Xu Huaiming’s gaze was fixed on that waist.

 

“It seems a bit too thin,” Xu Huaiming thought. Tan Xilu was too skinny; sometimes when he held him at night, it felt uncomfortable. He needed to put on some weight.

 

“I’ve been busy all morning. I’ll take a nap,” Tan Xilu said, lowering his hand. The slender waist was once again covered by his clothes. He leaned down and gave Xu Huaiming a kiss on the lips before walking into the bedroom.

 

Xu Huaiming watched his back and then walked into the kitchen.

 

Tan Xilu was the type of person who had shallow sleep, never resting well, and his mind was always on high alert. Any noise would wake him up, even a slight sound like a door opening. It wasn’t like this before, but after Xu Huaiming disappeared, he was afraid of falling asleep and not noticing if Xu Huaiming returned.

 

He had dozed off under the covers for a short while, and Tan Xilu was awakened by the knocking on the door. He mumbled with his eyes closed, “Xu Huaiming, open the door.”

 

No one answered in the room, but the knocking continued.

 

Tan Xilu called out a few more times, but still got no response. Suddenly, he realized something and abruptly opened his eyes. He immediately got out of bed and walked out of the bedroom. The living room was clean, and there was no cup on the coffee table that he had used for drinking water before. The kitchen didn’t have any signs of cooking either, as if no one had prepared breakfast that morning.

 

Cold sweat formed on Tan Xilu’s forehead, and his voice trembled slightly. “Xu Huaiming, Xu Huaiming? Where are you? Don’t joke with me, okay?”

 

The house remained eerily silent, with no one to answer him.

 

Tan Xilu panicked. Was it a dream? Did Xu Huaiming’s return just a dream?

 

“Knock, knock, knock.” The knocking on the door continued. Tan Xilu calmed down a bit, wiped his face, and walked over to open the door.

 

As soon as the door opened, Xu Huaiming entered with bags of snacks and vegetables in his hands. He stepped inside, taking off his shoes. “I’ve been out for a while. I thought you’d already be awake. I had too much stuff to carry, so I wanted you to open the door.”

 

“You…” Tan Xilu looked at him, his eyes filled with emotion.

 

“What’s wrong?” Xu Huaiming noticed something was off and turned to look at him.

 

Tan Xilu turned away, not wanting Xu Huaiming to see him crying. He spoke with a slightly trembling voice, “You kept knocking on the door. Couldn’t you open it yourself?”

 

“I thought you had been awake for a while, and there was so much stuff in my hands that I couldn’t free myself to open the door,” Xu Huaiming chuckled. “They often do this in TV shows when the husband comes home, and the wife opens the door for him.”

 

“Who’s your wife?” Tan Xilu blushed and whispered. He gave Xu Huaiming a glare. “Watch fewer TV dramas in the future.”

 

“Okay, I’ll listen to you,” Xu Huaiming replied, changing into slippers and carrying the bags of groceries into the kitchen. He started unpacking and placing the vegetables into the refrigerator.

 

Tan Xilu closed the door and joined Xu Huaiming in the kitchen. He stood next to him, helping him wrap things in plastic wrap. “I woke up just now and didn’t see you. I thought you had left again.”

 

Xu Huaiming paused for a moment while tearing off a label and looked at Tan Xilu. “I won’t leave.”

 

At least not while you still love me.

 

Tan Xilu looked at Xu Huaiming, suddenly at a loss for words.

 

His eyelashes trembled, and he reached out to embrace Xu Huaiming.

 

Xu Huaiming put down the items he was holding and hugged Tan Xilu back. Then he heard a muffled voice from Tan Xilu, “Even if… even if you want to leave, please tell me first. I really don’t want to go through the agony of searching for you again, not being able to find you. I’m so scared.”

 

“I understand. It won’t happen again,” Xu Huaiming reassured Tan Xilu, holding him tightly. He kissed him on the neck and said, “It won’t happen again.”

 

“Then let’s… let’s do it,” Tan Xilu let go of Xu Huaiming and said, “Let’s do it.”

 

Xu Huaiming was momentarily surprised.

 

While he was still taken aback, Tan Xilu kissed his lips first. “Xu Huaiming, it’s been so many years. Don’t you want me anymore?”

 

Xu Huaiming’s thoughts were in disarray, and his throat felt dry. He knew it was his physiological reaction to Tan Xilu, and they were in such an ambiguous situation. He also understood Tan Xilu’s intention, and he knew he couldn’t refuse.

 

“Okay,” Xu Huaiming agreed, lifting Tan Xilu into his arms.

 

Xu Huaiming wasn’t very skilled in such matters, and he was afraid of hurting Tan Xilu. He proceeded cautiously, gently nibbling on his collarbone.

 

---

T/N: Hey there! There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

https://ko-fi.com/hoenibean

 

Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

Thank you for all your support <3 Leave a comment if you like 🙂 I love reading them!