Chapter 40: Waiting for You After Class

“Mmm.”

Xie Yang was sleeping soundly when Qi Xu embraced him.

He woke up suddenly, groggily opening his eyes. Seeing nothing amiss, he assumed Qi Xu had a nightmare and gently patted his back, trying to comfort him.

“Don’t be afraid, brother.”

Xie Yang mumbled, and sleep soon overtook him again.

Qi Xu looked at his peaceful sleeping face, half amused and half distressed, then let go of him to let him sleep more comfortably.

Learning about Xie Yang’s long-standing crush left Qi Xu’s emotions in turmoil.

The hidden Moments posts filled Qi Xu’s heart with love and warmth.

Sweetness welled up inside him.

He had so much he wanted to say to Xie Yang, to express his love, to be tender and intimate with him, to…

Seeing the dark circles under Xie Yang’s eyes, Qi Xu restrained his thoughts.

He gently brushed Xie Yang’s bangs aside and planted a tender kiss on his face.

…

The next morning.

Xie Yang slowly opened his eyes, still nestled in the warm embrace.

He loved the feeling of being so close to Qi Xu, being held tightly gave him a sense of security.

He snuggled deeper into Qi Xu’s arms, reluctant to get up, planning to doze off again.

But with enough sleep, Xie Yang found it hard to fall back asleep. As his mind wandered, he suddenly recalled the events of the previous night.

Flashes of countless fragmented memories made him suddenly open his eyes in shock.

He remembered.

Last night, when Qi Xu picked him up, he had told Qi Xu everything in the car.

He had confessed his long-hidden crush.

He remembered the comforting words Qi Xu had said to him.

Tears welled up in Xie Yang’s eyes. He turned over in Qi Xu’s arms and hugged him tightly around the waist.

His longing had been reciprocated.

His secret crush had been acknowledged.

Xie Yang’s movements woke Qi Xu.

Qi Xu pulled him back into his arms, resting his chin on Xie Yang’s forehead, his voice still hoarse from sleep. “Baby, sleep a bit more.”

Xie Yang buried his face in Qi Xu’s chest, quietly listening to his steady heartbeat.

A few minutes later, Qi Xu’s warm kiss landed. He looked at Xie Yang and softly laughed, “Can’t sleep?”

Xie Yang didn’t respond, but the sound of his quiet sobs couldn’t be held back.

Tears gradually soaked Qi Xu’s chest.

Qi Xu gently stroked his tousled hair.

“I like you even more today than yesterday.”

The early morning light filtered into the bedroom, accompanied by the man’s gentle whispers. Soon, the room fell silent again.

…

“Next stop, City First High School. Passengers, please prepare to alight.”

There weren’t many people on the bus, and the carriage was quiet.

Xie Yang, wearing his high school uniform, sat at the back of the bus with Qi Xu.

They shared a pair of earphones, listening to Jay Chou’s song “Waiting for You After Class” on the phone.

Qi Xu leaned against the window, the breeze ruffling his hair, sunlight casting a golden glow on his profile.

Xie Yang held his hand, his mind flooded with countless fragments of memories.

He dazedly watched the passing scenery until the bus’s system announcement rang out again:

“City First High School, please exit through the rear door.”

“We’re here.”

Qi Xu turned to look at him, his cool smile overlapping with the face in Xie Yang’s memories.

Returning to their alma mater, everything felt surreal.

Qi Xu pinched his dazed face, “Why are you spacing out?”

Xie Yang snapped out of it and shyly smiled, “I didn’t expect you to plan this kind of date.”

Time couldn’t be rewound, and they couldn’t go back to the past.

Perhaps it was an attempt to make up for some lingering regrets.

Early in the morning, Qi Xu had pulled him out of bed, made him put on his old high school uniform, and said they were going out on a date.

Then he checked the bus route he used to take, taking a long detour to ride the bus together back to their high school.

Xie Yang suddenly understood Qi Xu’s intention.

Maybe he wanted to make up for the two and a half years they missed in high school.

Qi Xu, holding a camera, took a photo of them together at the school gate, his arm around Xie Yang’s waist.

Looking at the shy Xie Yang in the photo, Qi Xu smiled, “We actually have many photos together, all with the dean.”

Xie Yang blinked, “From the award ceremonies after exams?”

Qi Xu: “Yes.”

To be precise, not just of the two of them but with the third-ranked student as well.

Xie Yang swallowed and mumbled, “It’s okay if we don’t have those photos.”

Back then, he didn’t look good and instinctively didn’t want Qi Xu to see that version of himself.

He hoped Qi Xu would remember him as he was now.

Qi Xu raised an eyebrow, “Too late. The dean has already agreed to give them to me by tomorrow.”

He had guessed what Xie Yang was thinking, but he considered those photos precious and worth keeping.

Xie Yang’s troubled expression amused him.

Qi Xu teased, “Should we print one out and hang it in our room?”

Xie Yang’s face turned green, and he pulled Qi Xu’s hand, trying to change the subject as they walked into the school, “It’s been a long time. Let’s look around.”

The school was on break, with only the security guards on duty. With the dean’s permission, Qi Xu and Xie Yang had free access.

As they walked, they returned to the floor where their senior-year classrooms were located.

The classroom doors and windows were closed, and they didn’t have the keys, but most of the window locks were broken and could be easily opened. Qi Xu climbed through a window, jumping into the classroom, and opened the door for Xie Yang.

Qi Xu sat at a front window seat, smiling at Xie Yang beside him, “Did you use to sit here?”

Xie Yang was surprised, “How did you know?”

Qi Xu didn’t reply but handed him the camera, “Take a photo of me.”

Xie Yang was puzzled.

Until Qi Xu walked down the corridor and glanced back at him.

Xie Yang pressed the shutter and suddenly understood the significance of the photo.

Qi Xu was in Class 1, and Xie Yang was in Class 3. The restroom was near Xie Yang’s classroom, and this corridor was Qi Xu’s daily path.

Every time Qi Xu passed by, Xie Yang couldn’t help but secretly watch him.

Every time.

He even looked forward to the ten-minute break between classes.

It was his chance to see Qi Xu.

Realizing this, Xie Yang felt as if his little secret had been completely uncovered by Qi Xu. Watching him approach, his face turned red with embarrassment.

Qi Xu pulled him up from his seat and made him sit on the desk.

He sat on the chair, positioning himself between Xie Yang’s legs, wrapping his arms around his waist, and resting his face against Xie Yang’s stomach. In a soft voice, he said, “If only we had known each other earlier.”

Xie Yang gently stroked his head, comforting him, “It doesn’t matter that we didn’t meet earlier. Loving you makes me very happy.”

Both Qi Xu and Xie Yang knew that even if they could turn back time, even if they could go back to the past…

The timing wasn’t right, and they wouldn’t have been together.

So, everything had worked out for the best.

---

This chapter is brought to you Ram, thanks for the ko-fi! （＾ω＾）

---

Chapter 39: A Special Existence

“Where are you planning to run off to?”

As Qi Xu’s voice fell, he lifted Xie Yang into the air and carried him to the dressing room.

Xie Yang clung tightly to his neck, his face suddenly turning red.

Besides feeling like he’d been caught trying to escape after doing something wrong, he also felt as if he’d fallen into a trap Qi Xu had set for him.

If only he’d brought more clothes back.

Now, he was at Qi Xu’s mercy, having no choice but to comply.

Xie Yang never knew Qi Xu had this kind of fet*sh, but it seemed too late to escape now.

Qi Xu placed him on the sofa in the dressing room and looked him over from head to toe, his gaze dark and unreadable. “I thought you would choose something else.”

Xie Yang clutched the hem of his shirt, unable to meet Qi Xu’s eyes, his face full of shyness. “Where did my pajamas go?”

Qi Xu replied, “Those clothes started to pill, so I had them replaced.”

Xie Yang pursed his lips, clearly not believing Qi Xu’s words.

The clothes had only been worn a few times, and both the craftsmanship and fabric were top-notch. How could they pill so easily?

Looking at the wardrobe filled with various pretty dresses, Xie Yang timidly said, “I’m a boy.”

How could he wear girls’ clothes? It would look very strange.

Qi Xu’s fingers tapped lightly on the sofa, his gaze lingering on Xie Yang’s legs with strong intensity.

“Mm, beautiful children should wear beautiful clothes.”

Xie Yang was scared by his heated gaze, pressing his legs together, his toes curling in shyness.

Qi Xu couldn’t help but remove the bothersome shirt, revealing the pink lace panties. He whispered ambiguously in Xie Yang’s ear, “Didn’t expect you to like this style.”

Xie Yang’s face was flushed, his hands not knowing where to rest.

While choosing sleepwear, he had spent a long time looking for undergarments too, but there were only two types in the wardrobe: thongs and lace panties.

He didn’t want to choose either, but he couldn’t wear nothing.

Qi Xu casually picked a burgundy silk nightgown from the wardrobe and handed it to Xie Yang, coaxing, “Baby, wear this for me.”

Xie Yang shook his head, softly refusing, “No.”

Qi Xu: “But I want to see it. Can’t you make me happy, baby?”

Xie Yang hesitated.

He felt that making Qi Xu happy was more important than anything.

But he also felt very embarrassed.

After much internal struggle, Xie Yang put on the burgundy silk nightgown. The front had a deep V-neckline, and the back was completely backless. The dress barely covered his buttocks, making his skin look even fairer.

He clutched the two thin shoulder straps, afraid the dress might slip off at any moment, and mumbled, “It feels strange.”

Qi Xu’s gaze traveled inch by inch over his body, full of amazement, his dark eyes sparkling with light, a smile playing on his lips.

He grabbed Xie Yang’s hand, pulling him into his arms and making him sit on his lap.

“It doesn’t feel strange. After all, it will be torn off soon.”

Xie Yang was stunned. Torn off?!

Before he could think more, Qi Xu lifted him up and, with a few steps, carried him back to the bedroom.

Xie Yang struggled, “Wait!”

Qi Xu: “Can’t wait.”

Warm lips covered his, silencing all his anxious sounds.

…

On the fifth day of the holiday, Xie Yang finally mustered the courage to protest.

He wanted to go out!

Today was the day of the class reunion. Initially, Xie Yang wasn’t interested in attending, but now it seemed like a good reason to get out of the house for a while.

With two men at home, there weren’t any makeup products. Looking at the obvious hickeys on his neck, Xie Yang sighed helplessly.

After knowing he was going to the reunion, Qi Xu seemed a bit jealous and had left many marks on his neck the previous night.

Xie Yang had no way to deal with him and could only let him be.

He rummaged through the wardrobe and finally found a turtleneck sweater that could cover most of the hick*ys.

Qi Xu, displeased, watched him put on the turtleneck sweater and pulled down the collar.

“Don’t cover them.”

Xie Yang couldn’t argue with him and had to fold the collar down, revealing the hickeys on his neck.

Qi Xu: “Good boy.”

Xie Yang sighed. As long as you’re happy.

The class reunion was held at an entertainment venue in the city center. Qi Xu personally drove him there, repeatedly reminding him not to drink and to come home early.

Xie Yang could only respond again and again, “I know. I’ll call you ahead of time and won’t stay long.”

Then he silently muttered to himself: “Clingy.”

Su Huai was waiting for him at the door. Seeing him get out of the car, he teased, “I thought Qi Xu wouldn’t let you come out.”

Xie Yang smiled awkwardly.

Su Huai and Xie Yang arrived a bit late; most of their classmates were already there. The previously noisy room quieted down as the waiter opened the door. Su Huai entered first, followed by Xie Yang.

Many people stared at the door in surprise when they saw Xie Yang’s unfamiliar face.

Did their class ever have such a handsome guy?

The class monitor, sitting by the door, looked at Xie Yang in a daze. “Who is this…?”

Su Huai laughed and joked, “It’s Xie Yang! Don’t you recognize him?”

Everyone was stunned.

Xie Yang used to always sit in the corner, quiet and unassuming, with long bangs, thick glasses, and a small, skinny frame, making him hardly noticeable.

Now, he had a fresh, stylish haircut, had ditched the old glasses, and even his fashion sense had changed. He looked clean and sharp, very different from the dusty bookworm they remembered.

Xie Yang waved at them, “Long time no see.”

The classmates snapped out of their daze and greeted him.

“Long time no see!”

“You two came together?”

“I heard you and Su Huai are both at S University, in the same class and dorm! What a coincidence.”

Xie Yang nodded, “Yes, we were lucky to be placed in the same dorm.”

“Hey, I heard you’re in a relationship?”

“Yeah, I heard you’re with Qi Xu from our high school class. Is it true?”

As Xie Yang had expected, their real reason for inviting him to the reunion was to find out more about his relationship with Qi Xu.

After all, Qi Xu was quite a figure in their high school, and even after graduation, any news about him sparked a lot of curiosity.

Su Huai stood in front of Xie Yang and laughed, “You guys are too nosy. Where did you even hear this?”

“Qi Xu’s WeChat must not have been hacked. He posted the photos himself.”

“So is it true or not?”

“Come on, with those photos, how can it be fake?”

“But did you two really only get together in college?”

“Yeah, we never heard anything about you two in high school.”

“Did you two secretly start dating in high school and just didn’t tell us?”

Xie Yang smiled faintly, “It’s true. Qi Xu and I are dating. But we really only got to know each other in college. We had no contact in high school.”

He felt he needed to explain, or else the rumors would get even more distorted.

“Come on, tell us. How did you manage to win Qi Xu over?”

“This is amazing! I never thought I’d hear about Qi Xu being in a relationship. I always thought he wouldn’t date anyone.”

“Who would have thought Qi Xu likes guys? No wonder he never responded to my love letters. I guess it was the wrong gender.”

“Hahaha, I can’t believe he’s gay.”

“So, are you saying that even if I were a guy, he wouldn’t notice me?”

Laughter erupted in the room, and Xie Yang felt relieved as he sat in a corner of the sofa.

Some classmates still weren’t satisfied and wanted to know more about Qi Xu. Suddenly, a flash of light hit Xie Yang’s face, revealing the hickeys on his neck.

“Oh my god! Xie Yang, your neck…”

Many people turned to look at his neck, and a chorus of gasps filled the room.

“This is really something.”

“I can’t believe Qi the Male God…”

The person chuckled ambiguously.

Xie Yang instinctively covered his neck and lowered his eyes.

The constant focus on him and Qi Xu made him feel suffocated.

Su Huai couldn’t stand it anymore and scolded, “Today is a class reunion. Why are you all pestering Xie Yang with questions?!”

Seeing Xie Yang’s silence, Su Huai grew angry, and the others reluctantly changed the subject.

Xie Yang shot Su Huai a grateful look. Despite being mentally prepared, he found it overwhelming. Thankfully, Su Huai was by his side.

Su Huai poured him a glass of sparkling wine. “This tastes pretty good, give it a try.”

Xie Yang was curious about the icy blue liquid. “What is it?”

Su Huai: “I wouldn’t dare give it to you. It’s alcohol, and you can’t handle it.”

Xie Yang looked thoughtfully at the drink.

Su Huai: “I need to use the restroom. Watch this for me.”

After Su Huai left, Xie Yang picked up the glass and sniffed it. There was a faint fruity aroma, but the alcohol smell was strong.

He asked the waiter for another glass and took a sip of Su Huai’s drink.

It was a bit strong, a bit sweet, and quite good.

When Su Huai returned, he saw Xie Yang asleep in a corner, hugging a pillow.

“Xie Yang seems drunk.”

Su Huai: “I only gave him sparkling wine! How could he be drunk?!”

“He drank yours.”

Su Huai: “!!!”

How was he going to explain this to Qi Xu?

Su Huai, nearly in tears, pulled out his phone and called Qi Xu. “Xiao Xie is drunk. Can you come pick him up?”

Qi Xu was silent for a few seconds, then asked in a deep voice, “Who made him drink?”

His cold voice came through the receiver, and Su Huai could sense his anger. Helplessly, he explained, “No one made him drink. He did it himself.”

Qi Xu: “Got it.”

Soon, there was a knock on the door, and Qi Xu walked in.

His tall, handsome figure caught everyone’s attention.

“Wow! Qi Xu?!”

“Brother Qi, why are you here?”

Qi Xu nodded slightly, glanced around, and his eyes settled on Xie Yang in the corner. He walked over, picked Xie Yang up, and addressed the curious gazes with a smile, “I’m taking Xiao Xie home. You guys continue.”

“Huh?”

“Brother Qi, aren’t you staying for a bit?”

“Let Xiao Xie sleep a bit more.”

Qi Xu: “No, you all enjoy yourselves.”

After Qi Xu left, everyone exchanged glances and began whispering.

“So it’s true.”

“Of course it’s true. You didn’t believe it?”

“Honestly, would you believe it without seeing it yourself?”

“Qi Xu doesn’t seem like he’s in the same league as us. With his family background…”

Su Huai interrupted, “Qi Xu likes him, and he doesn’t care about Xiao Xie’s background.”

“True.” The person fell silent.

Feeling bored, Su Huai texted Xia Hang: Deep Sea Bay, Room 1, password is my birthday.

He made an excuse and left the club.

Had he known it would be so dull, he wouldn’t have come.

Su Huai glanced at the familiar car in the distance and silently prayed for his friend.

Hopefully, he wouldn’t be bedridden for three days.

Xie Yang sat in the passenger seat, looking at Qi Xu fastening his seatbelt, and drunkenly smiled. “Brother, did you come to take me home?”

Qi Xu, both amused and exasperated, pinched his cheek. “Yes, brother came to take you home.”

Xie Yang suddenly grabbed his hand and called out, “Brother.”

Qi Xu: “Hmm?”

Xie Yang gave a sweet smile. “Thank you for liking me.”

Qi Xu leaned in and kissed the corner of his lips. “I should be thanking you.”

Xie Yang shook his head and pushed him away. “You have no idea how much I like you.”

Qi Xu looked at the little drunk in front of him and coaxed, “How much do you like me?”

Xie Yang raised his hand and started counting on his fingers. “One year, two years, six months, seven months, hmm, it should be two years and ten months.”

Qi Xu froze, his heart skipping a beat.

Two years and ten months.

But this was only their third month of dating.

He had heard from Su Huai that Xie Yang had a crush on him, but he never thought it had lasted this long.

For a moment, Qi Xu’s heart was filled with a sour feeling.

He couldn’t imagine how Xie Yang had endured those two years and seven months without him knowing.

Nor could he imagine all the things he missed during that time.

Xie Yang, clutching his seatbelt, seemed to have fallen asleep, murmuring, “Brother, will you always like me? Will you ever get tired of me and want to break up?”

Qi Xu’s voice was a bit dry but very firm, “I will always like you. I won’t get tired of you. I will be with you forever.”

Xie Yang was silent for a while before asking, “If your family doesn’t agree, would you give up on me?”

Qi Xu responded decisively, “No, my family does not oppose our relationship.”

Xie Yang lowered his head, lost in thought.

Qi Xu held his hand and reassured him again, “Baby, I will always like you, like you very much, and love you forever.”

Xie Yang’s thoughts were a bit muddled, and he recalled a few months ago, muttering to himself, “Qi Xu would never like me.”

Feeling a bit down, he said, “He doesn’t like me. He doesn’t even know who I am. He told others he’s not interested in me, doesn’t want to know me, and could never like me.”

“I heard it with my own ears.”

As he spoke, Xie Yang became more and more upset, tears streaming uncontrollably down his face.

Qi Xu unbuckled his seatbelt and gently pulled him from the passenger seat, softly coaxing, “How could he not like you? He likes you the most.”

Xie Yang shook his head, “He doesn’t know I like him. I’m afraid to confess. If he found out, he would definitely hate me.”

Qi Xu tenderly wiped away his tears, comforting him, “How will you know if you don’t try?”

Xie Yang sniffled, choking out his words, “Many people confessed to him and got rejected. It would be the same for me.”

Qi Xu gently patted his back and spoke softly, “Did you ever think that you are the special exception, the one who changes all the answers? Because he likes you, he won’t reject you.”

Xie Yang seemed stunned by this, asking in disbelief, “Really? Am I really the exception?”

Qi Xu kissed his forehead, “Yes.”

Xie Yang, reassured, fell asleep in his arms.

Qi Xu held him by the waist, sitting quietly for a long time.

Xie Yang slept soundly, exhausted from crying, not waking up even when Qi Xu carried him home.

He even cooperated obediently when Qi Xu bathed him.

Qi Xu laid him on the bed, making sure he was comfortable.

He sat by the bed, looking at Xie Yang’s slightly tipsy face, and gently pinched his cheek.

Xie Yang frowned, dodged his hand, and turned his face away.

Qi Xu smiled, took out his phone, and planned to ask Su Huai about Xie Yang’s high school days, only to realize he had grabbed the wrong phone—it was Xie Yang’s.

Perfect timing, with the New Year approaching, he decided to send Xie Yang some money.

He initiated a transfer, but Xie Yang’s phone didn’t receive any notifications. Qi Xu had to unlock it and found that Xie Yang was logged into his secondary WeChat account.

Driven by curiosity, Qi Xu clicked into it. Xie Yang’s secondary account was very clean, with only Qi Xu in the contact list.

He opened the Moments and found only old posts. Feeling something was off, he checked Xie Yang’s personal profile.

Many posts he had never seen before came into view.

He remembered that before they started their online relationship, Xie Yang used to post daily Moments, sharing his everyday life. After they started dating, Xie Yang rarely posted, which Qi Xu found regretful. He liked how Xie Yang documented his life, allowing him to glimpse into his feelings and preferences through his words.

It turned out.

All those posts were set to “Only me.”

[Brother, when will you come to take me home?]

This was today’s post, accompanied by a picture of a blue cocktail.

[Brother who works hard is so handsome, full marks.]

The accompanying image was of him working diligently in the study.

[Wow! Qi Xu’s noodles!]

The accompanying image was of the late-night snack Qi Xu made for Xie Yang a few nights ago.

[As soon as I was full, Qi Xu picked me up and weighed me. Looks like the little pig he’s been fattening up is ready for the slaughter.]

The accompanying image was of Xie Yang standing on an electronic scale.

[Qi Xu peeling shrimp. It’s truly blissful to have someone peel shrimp for you.]

The accompanying image was of Qi Xu placing peeled shrimp into Xie Yang’s bowl.

[Today is a very special day. Qi Xu and I started dating. I think I will remember this forever.]

The accompanying image was the bouquet of red roses Qi Xu gave Xie Yang when they first met.

[Qi Xu said he likes me. I can’t believe it. Maybe it’s true, but I’m also worried it’s just my imagination.]

[…]

Every post in Xie Yang’s Moments was related to Qi Xu, meticulously documenting their relationship.

Qi Xu couldn’t help but get teary-eyed. He sighed softly, then lifted Xie Yang from the bed and held him tightly.

“I love you the most.”

---

This chapter is brought to you Ram, thanks for the ko-fi! （＾ω＾）

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Chapter 38: I Like You

Bright sunlight streamed into the room, and a gentle breeze fluttered the curtains.

Qi Xu quietly pushed open the door.

The sleeping beauty on the bed showed no signs of waking up. Qi Xu sat down by the bedside, gently stroking the marks on Xie Yang’s face.

He took a small velvet box out of his pocket, removed the item inside, warmed it in his hand, and then slipped a ring onto Xie Yang’s slender finger.

He silently admired Xie Yang’s hand for a long time. After kissing the back of his hand, he tucked it back under the blanket.

“Sleep well.”

Qi Xu quietly closed the door behind him.

It was two in the afternoon when Xie Yang finally woke up, feeling sore all over. He stared at the ceiling, feeling utterly exhausted.

Even the slightest movement sent waves of pain through his body.

His limbs felt foreign and unresponsive.

Suddenly, his phone vibrated. Xie Yang reached under his pillow, rubbing his blurry eyes, and accidentally scratched his eyelid.

Noticing a strange sensation, Xie Yang raised his hand to look.

A diamond ring sparkled on his ring finger.

A ring?

When did that get there?

Did Qi Xu give it to him?

He was about to call out Qi Xu’s name, but his throat was too dry, so he closed his mouth.

Xie Yang climbed out of bed, his legs trembling, barely able to stand.

He was wearing an oversized T-shirt that just covered his thighs.

It was Qi Xu’s shirt, still carrying the faint scent of gardenias, which was very pleasant.

The room was carpeted with a thick rug. Xie Yang slowly made his way to the door, using the wall for support. Just as he was about to open the door, it swung open from the other side. He staggered back in surprise, his legs giving way, but Qi Xu caught him before he fell.

Qi Xu carried him back to the bed in a few steps and placed him down, kneeling in front of him and holding his leg, asking anxiously, “Did you hurt yourself?”

Xie Yang shook his head, “I’m fine.”

Qi Xu: “Good. Do you feel any discomfort?”

Xie Yang was about to say no, but then he noticed the bite marks on his leg, following Qi Xu’s gaze.

He stared at Qi Xu in shock.

Qi Xu let go of his leg, stood up, and placed his hands on either side of Xie Yang, trapping him.

Looking at Xie Yang’s dazed and cute face, Qi Xu kissed him and laughed, “Why that expression?”

Xie Yang mustered the courage to glare at him, but his voice was still timid, “Why… why there?”

He couldn’t even finish his sentence.

He recalled how his legs had been draped over Qi Xu’s shoulders last night…

Qi Xu, unconcerned, pulled Xie Yang onto his lap, looking at him playfully, “Is there any part of you I haven’t kissed?”

Xie Yang’s mind went blank, flooded with memories of last night—Qi Xu holding his legs, kissing him…

His face turned beet red, his heart raced, and he lowered his head in embarrassment, unable to meet Qi Xu’s teasing gaze.

Qi Xu lifted Xie Yang’s hand and kissed it, smiling warmly, “Do you like the ring I gave you?”

Xie Yang looked at his hand, “I do, but why give it to me all of a sudden?”

Qi Xu: “It’s not a special gift. I just wanted to make you happy.”

Xie Yang’s heart fluttered. He hadn’t expected Qi Xu to say that.

Qi Xu wanted to make him happy?

But he didn’t need to do that because he was already very happy, even if Qi Xu did nothing.

Being in a relationship with Qi Xu made he happy every day.

He wrapped his arms around Qi Xu’s shoulders, hugging him tightly, “I really like it. Thank you.”

Qi Xu: “Don’t take it off, okay?”

Xie Yang nodded. He would always wear it.

Although Qi Xu said it wasn’t a special gift, to Xie Yang, it was very special and meaningful.

Seeing Xie Yang being so obedient, Qi Xu felt a bit restless.

He traced Xie Yang’s waistline and whispered in his ear, “Does it still hurt?”

Xie Yang froze, then struggled to get off Qi Xu.

“It hurts.”

“Brother, it hurts.”

He wriggled but couldn’t break free from Qi Xu’s embrace, so he resorted to acting spoiled.

Qi Xu wrapped his long arms around Xie Yang’s waist, holding him tightly in his embrace, a faint smile playing in his eyes. “Why aren’t you calling me ‘husband’ anymore?”

Xie Yang instantly blushed a deep red.

It was clearly Qi Xu who insisted he call him that last night, even deliberately teasing him until he said those two words.

Qi Xu: “Say it again for me to hear?”

Xie Yang felt Qi Xu’s aura changing bit by bit, his gaze becoming more suggestive, as if he was still savoring the sight of him.

Before Qi Xu could proceed to the next step, Xie Yang quickly pleaded softly in his arms.

“I’m hungry.”

“So hungry my stomach is caving in.”

Qi Xu could only speak with regret, “Let’s change clothes and eat first?”

Although the house was heated, having bare legs would still lead to catching a cold.

Qi Xu: “Do you need my help?”

Xie Yang quickly slipped out of his embrace and said, “I can do it myself.”

Qi Xu chuckled softly and carried him to the wardrobe.

In the end, he still helped him change into a set of pajamas.

…

Time passed quickly.

Today was the final exam. Xie Yang handed in his paper early and stretched lazily as he walked out of the exam room, feeling even his steps become lighter.

The holidays were finally here.

Qi Xu was waiting for him downstairs.

He was leaning lazily against the wall, looking down at his phone.

His tall and handsome figure attracted a lot of attention.

Xie Yang hurried to him, grabbed his hand, and smiled, “Have you been waiting long?”

Qi Xu looked at his bright smile and teased, “Shouldn’t we celebrate finishing the exams?”

Xie Yang’s eyes lit up, “Of course.”

At the school cafeteria.

Xie Yang chose a nice spot and obediently waited for Qi Xu to get their food.

After all, he was quite poor, so he could only treat Qi Xu to a hearty lunch at the cafeteria.

As expected, Qi Xu’s choice of food for him was all bland dishes, not a single bit of chili in sight.

Xie Yang bit his chopsticks, feeling conflicted.

Qi Xu raised an eyebrow, “Does it still hurt?”

Upon hearing this, Xie Yang’s face heated up, and memories of last night’s study session in the study room flooded his mind…

He glared at Qi Xu.

Clearly, Qi Xu was the one at fault.

Xie Yang bit into the beef ball Qi Xu had given him, his expression instantly turning grim.

He forced himself to swallow the unpleasant taste.

Before Qi Xu noticed anything amiss, he held the bitten beef ball to his mouth.

Qi Xu didn’t hesitate and ate it in one bite. As he chewed, he paused, looked at the slightly smug Xie Yang, and smiled faintly.

It turned out the beef ball contained dried tangerine peel, which Xie Yang disliked, so he wanted Qi Xu to get rid of it.

Xie Yang didn’t know that their sweet interaction in the cafeteria had already been posted on the forum.

After numerous deletions by the administrator, the forum users knew exactly what could and couldn’t be discussed.

A post was trending rapidly on the homepage, climbing to the top in just a few minutes.

[Did you see that? I’m shocked.]

1F: [Let me give you some keywords: cafeteria, feeding each other, Computer Science × Finance.]

2F: [Great, I know who you’re talking about because I was right there watching. Smoking.jpg]

3F: [This information is too obvious. It’s that couple, right? What did they do in the cafeteria?]

4F: [Are you talking about: “I don’t like men,” “I’m not gay,” “Profile picture background,” “Exposing relationship gossip,” “I have a cleanliness obsession,” “Eating boyfriend’s leftovers,” “Wanting to stick to my boyfriend 24/7,” “Turning into a lovestruck fool” and other grand face-slapping love scenes of the aloof god?]

5F: [The summary above is very apt. By the way, being willing to eat food bitten by your partner is undoubtedly true love.]

6F: [“Cleanliness depends on the person” — it’s just that you’re not someone special.]

7F: [So what kind of charm does someone special have to turn a cold-hearted god into a lovestruck fool?]

8F: [Rumor has it they met through a game.]

9F: [That’s impossible. They were in the same school before, and both were top in their year. How could they not know each other? It’s just strange that they didn’t spark anything in three years of being schoolmates, but suddenly got together in college.]

10F: [It’s said to be an online romance.]

11F: [That sounds a bit far-fetched. The finance guy doesn’t seem like the type to engage in an online dating. With so many people pursuing him in real life that he doesn’t care for, why would he go online to date a stranger? It makes no sense.]

12F: [If you understand the epic drama described in post 4, you’d find this isn’t far-fetched at all.]

13F: [What to do? If it’s an online dating, it’s even more adorable.]

Xie Yang was packing his luggage in the dormitory when he saw this post. Suddenly, he received a message from Su Huai. He clicked it open and felt a bit helpless.

Any little thing between him and Qi Xu would end up on the forum.

However, the contents of the post made Xie Yang laugh. Before he got together with Qi Xu, he also knew Qi Xu was a clean freak.

It seemed he was indeed an exception.

Qi Xu didn’t mind sharing a cup, eating from the same bowl, or sleeping in the same bed with him.

As for why Qi Xu chose to be with him, not only the forum but many former classmates had indirectly asked him about it.

Some even asked Su Huai, Sheng Fei, Xi Rui, and Song Xingyu.

Su Huai: [By the way, our high school classmates are planning a class reunion over the winter break. How about you come with me?]

A class reunion?

It seemed some classmates had hinted at this when they were probing about his relationship with Qi Xu a few days ago. But at that time, he was busy with exams and didn’t pay much attention to it.

Su Huai: [This year, it’s still karaoke. It’d be boring if I go alone. Please come with me.]

Xie Yang agreed.

Actually, he had never attended such reunions with old classmates before.

He opened the old class group chat and saw many people had mentioned him, inviting him to join. This had never happened before.

He wondered if it was just his imagination, but since he started dating Qi Xu, it seemed many people’s attitudes towards him had changed.

They seemed warmer, though some approached him with strange intentions.

An old classmate suddenly became so enthusiastic towards him, making Xie Yang feel a bit troubled, but he ultimately didn’t refuse.

His personality was very soft, and he couldn’t decline such warm hospitality, so he could only agree.

Xie Yang’s luggage fit into a single bag; in fact, he didn’t have much to take. Naturally, Qi Xu’s home wouldn’t lack anything for him, so he could basically just carry his laptop and be ready to go.

Qi Xu said, “Move in next semester.”

Xie Yang held his laptop and stayed silent.

If the lock on the guest room door hadn’t been broken, he might have considered it.

If the house didn’t have so many mysterious potions and little squares, he might have been able to believe it.

Moreover, Qi Xu’s so-called “chatting under the covers” seemed to have impure motives.

Xie Yang didn’t agree, and Qi Xu wasn’t surprised; he wasn’t in a hurry.

That evening, while taking a bath, Xie Yang discovered that the cute bear pajamas Qi Xu had previously bought him were all gone, and the clothes in the wardrobe had been replaced with a new batch.

He even saw many unopened sets of sexy lingerie.

He didn’t think Qi Xu had brought another woman home; rather, he felt these clothes were prepared by Qi Xu for him.

He rummaged through the wardrobe but couldn’t find a single piece of normal clothing, so he finally had to pick a shirt.

Looking at himself in the mirror, Xie Yang felt something was off.

He quietly opened the bathroom door, intending to go back to the bedroom to find another set of pajamas, but before he could run far, Qi Xu hugged him from behind.

A deep voice whispered in his ear.

“In such a hurry, where are you going?”

---

Chapter 37: Acting Spoiled Again

The study room was very quiet, with only the sound of pen tips brushing against paper.

Xie Yang was still diligently working on his problems, while Qi Xu had already fallen asleep, his face turned to the side, resting on the desk, allowing Xie Yang to see his face at all times.

Looking at Qi Xu’s sleeping face, Xie Yang felt a surge of sweetness in his heart.

Even without doing anything, this simple companionship made him feel very happy.

An hour passed.

Qi Xu slowly opened his eyes and looked at Xie Yang, who was still studying diligently beside him. He wrapped his arms around Xie Yang’s waist and buried his face in his neck, taking a deep breath.

“Baby, when are we going home?”

His voice carried the fatigue of just waking up, low and husky, with a hint of laziness.

It sounded like he was acting spoiled.

Xie Yang’s heart fluttered slightly, like a feather brushing against it, making it soft and tender.

He patted Qi Xu’s head and coaxed him, “Let’s go home now.”

Qi Xu nuzzled his neck and planted a light kiss.

Xie Yang immediately pushed against his embrace, blushing, “This is still the study room. People will see.”

“I don’t care if they see.”

Xie Yang: “…”

But he did care. He wasn’t used to being the center of attention and couldn’t handle others’ teasing or jokes.

Qi Xu clung to him, refusing to let go, so Xie Yang quickly packed up their things and slipped out of the study room before anyone noticed them.

He didn’t want to become a spectacle on the forums or campus group chats.

Qi Xu carried Xie Yang’s bag and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. He leaned in and kissed his cheek, “Auntie made a lot of your favorite dishes. Let’s go home and eat.”

Xie Yang nodded, a sweet smile spreading across his face.

The word “home” made him feel warm inside.

But on the way, he suddenly remembered that Qi Xu had been coaxing him to stay over for the night, giving him a sense of crisis.

Tonight, he would make sure to lock the guest room door, preventing Qi Xu from sneaking into his room in the middle of the night.

Even though he had no classes tomorrow, he didn’t want to be sore all day.

When they got out of the car, Qi Xu didn’t kiss him in the parking lot like he usually did.

Xie Yang glanced at Qi Xu in surprise. He had expected…

Even in the elevator, Qi Xu just held his hand properly, and when they reached the door, he quietly helped Xie Yang change his shoes.

Unlike before, when they would kiss in the elevator if it was empty and eagerly start making out as soon as they got home.

Xie Yang felt something was off but couldn’t pinpoint it.

Even during dinner, Qi Xu just watched him finish his meal as usual, peeling shrimp for him, picking out fish bones, and serving him food without any differences.

It wasn’t until Xie Yang finished eating and relaxed on the sofa for ten minutes that Qi Xu suddenly asked, “Are you full?”

Xie Yang nodded, “Yes, I am.”

Before he could react, Qi Xu had him pinned on the sofa, licking his lips, “So, is it my turn to eat now?”

Xie Yang stared at him blankly, “What?”

The storm was coming.

Qi Xu’s kisses landed urgently on his body.

Sweaters were carelessly discarded on the floor, leaving only a plain white T-shirt.

He watched, dazed, as Qi Xu pulled a mysterious bottle from somewhere in the sofa.

Xie Yang couldn’t help but blush. How could such things be left on the sofa?

What if the cleaning lady saw them?

His mind was in turmoil as he struggled and squirmed in Qi Xu’s arms, trying to reason with him.

Qi Xu’s deep voice whispered in his ear, “Baby, I can’t wait any longer.”

Warm lips silenced his unfinished words.

The heated kisses continued to fall, muffling his protests and turning them into murmurs in the passionate embrace.

Xie Yang had planned to lock his room tonight to avoid this, but he didn’t even last until bedtime.

…

Xie Yang bit his shirt, staring blankly at the ceiling.

…

His pale waist was covered in bruises.

Soft whimpers escaped his lips.

…

His mind went blank, and he collapsed on the sofa.

The bathtub was already filled with hot water, the bathroom steamy with mist.

Xie Yang lay in the tub, slipping down until Qi Xu lifted him up.

He sat in front of the mirror, watching Qi Xu blow-dry his hair. Although Qi Xu’s expression was eager, his movements were gentle.

……

Wet kisses landed on Xie Yang, and he tried to push Qi Xu’s head away but was met with a firm bite on his wrist as punishment.

Xie Yang couldn’t help but tense up, his pale feet pressing against Qi Xu’s leg.

……

Qi Xu placed a small square object in Xie Yang’s palm and coaxed, “Baby, you do it.”

Xie Yang opened his eyes weakly, tears brimming, his face flushed unnaturally.

His fingers trembled, and he held his breath in nervousness.

Even his palms were covered in a thin layer of sweat.

Qi Xu’s eyes burned with intensity, the emotions swirling in his gaze threatening to spill over.

Xie Yang didn’t even have time to say much.

……

In the quiet room, intermittent sobs could be heard.

Qi Xu took a sharp breath.

“Baby.”

He bent down, pulling Xie Yang into a tight embrace, kissing his tear-streaked, embarrassed face.

Gently wiping away Xie Yang’s tears, he whispered with a soft laugh in his ear, “Baby, I think you did it wrong.”

“Ugh.”

Xie Yang sobbed softly in his arms, his head spinning, unable to comprehend Qi Xu’s words.

At 2 a.m., faint sobs still echoed, the endless night stretching on.

“Brother.”

Xie Yang opened his weary eyes, meeting Qi Xu’s passionate, love-filled gaze.

He clumsily kissed the corner of Qi Xu’s lips over and over, trying to please his lover in his exhaustion, hoping he would be let off soon.

“Husband.”

Qi Xu took a deep breath, burying his face in Xie Yang’s neck, his voice tinged with coaxing.

“Baby, one last time.”

Morning and evening, love surged like a tide.

---

Chapter 36: It Is Quite Sweet

Xie Yang stayed up late talking with Su Huai and didn’t wake up until ten in the morning.

Qi Xu had sent him many messages, none of which managed to wake him up.

CX330: [Good morning.]

CX330: [Are you awake?]

CX330: [What do you want for breakfast?]

CX330: [Baby, are you still not up?]

CX330: […]

Xie Yang quickly replied: Just woke up now. [Cute.jpg]

CX330: [Do you want to have lunch together?]

Caramel Pudding: [Su Huai is treating me to lunch.]

CX330: [I can treat you too, so have lunch with me.]

Caramel Pudding: [How about I treat you to dinner tonight?]

CX330: [No.]

Xie Yang was taken aback. He didn’t expect Qi Xu to refuse. He had planned to sneak out for spicy hotpot with Su Huai at noon.

Qi Xu didn’t allow him to eat instant noodles or oily, spicy food.

And since Qi Xu had recently been obsessed with a pig-raising game, Xie Yang could only “rebel” when he wasn’t around.

Caramel Pudding: [How about I take you to a movie?]

CX330: [Not enough.]

Not enough?

What did that mean?

Caramel Pudding: [How about I make you a knitted doll?]

CX330: [I want something else.]

Caramel Pudding: [What do you want?]

CX330: [Spend the night with me.]

Xie Yang saw this message and couldn’t help but smile. Somehow, the answer didn’t surprise him.

Even if he didn’t have lunch with Su Huai, Qi Xu would still find some reason to take him back to the apartment.

So Xie Yang decided to agree.

Caramel Pudding: [How about we play games at home tonight?]

CX330: [Okay.]

CX330: [Love you, baby.]

Xie Yang poked Qi Xu’s handsome but stern face on the chat background.

He changed Qi Xu’s contact name to [Clingy].

It was hard to imagine someone with such a cool face calling him “baby” all the time, being so sticky and mushy.

The canteen was very cost-effective, so it was always crowded at meal times.

Su Huai and Xie Yang chose a quiet corner.

Noticing the clear hickey on Xie Yang’s neck, Su Huai teased, “How come that hickey hasn’t faded at all? It looks like it’s been refreshed.”

Xie Yang instinctively touched his neck. The weather had warmed up, so he hadn’t worn a scarf today, forgetting about the mark. He could only smile awkwardly.

Su Huai said, “Qi Xu’s possessiveness is a bit over the top. Can you handle it?”

Leaving a mark in such an obvious place made his intentions clear.

Xie Yang didn’t understand why Qi Xu liked leaving so many marks on him, as if he were marking his territory.

He smiled and said, “I think he’s just overthinking it. I’m not particularly good-looking. Who else would be interested in me besides him?”

Su Huai frowned, “You’re not bad-looking at all. You just didn’t take care of yourself before. Now you look great. Qi Xu is lucky to be with you, and he’s obviously crazy about you.”

Just as Sheng Fei said, Xie Yang was completely Qi Xu’s ideal type.

Obedient, cute, and well-behaved.

Easily embarrassed and easy to tease.

Qi Xu must enjoy making him cry.

Su Huai felt like he understood all too well.

Xie Yang grinned foolishly, happily saying, “Yeah, that’s the best.”

Even without Su Huai saying it, he could tell. To Qi Xu, he was probably quite attractive. Qi Xu often stared at his face, especially when they were intimate.

He would always say I was very beautiful.

Maybe my appearance happens to be Qi Xu’s type.

Suddenly, an exaggerated snicker from nearby caught Xie Yang’s and Su Huai’s attention.

“Maybe he’s never seen what real beauty looks like.”

“Didn’t think so many beautiful people couldn’t catch his eye, and he ended up choosing the ugliest one.”

“Maybe his eyesight is bad.”

Xie Yang felt like they were talking about him.

It’s not that he was overly sensitive, but given the topic of his conversation with Su Huai, their remarks seemed deliberately targeted.

Su Huai responded sarcastically, “He’s still better looking than some ugly people around here. It’s good to have self-awareness. Maybe check a mirror next time.”

One of the guys slammed the table and angrily glared at Xie Yang and Su Huai, cursing, “Who are you talking about?”

Su Huai spread his hands, amused, “Did I say anything specific? Some people shouldn’t take everything personally. But it seems they do have some self-awareness after all.”

He recognized one of the three, the silent one who had once publicly confessed to Qi Xu at the entrance of the dorm.

The forum had been buzzing with this senior’s activity, posting constantly, only to have each post promptly deleted by the administrators.

It seemed he was now angry and humiliated.

This senior was indeed attractive and good at winning over others, making many in their circle want to date him.

He looked delicate like a morning glory, but in reality, he played with people’s emotions.

He was arrogant, thinking highly of himself and looking down on everyone else.

Rejected by Qi Xu and seeing Qi Xu’s boyfriend was another guy, he must have felt humiliated and triggered.

Many in their circle were waiting to see him embarrassed, and Su Huai was one of them, having some past grudges with him.

Seeing this senior get embarrassed brought Su Huai a certain satisfaction.

Their loud argument had drawn quite a bit of attention, especially during the busy lunch hour when everyone enjoyed some gossip.

Given their striking appearances, many were watching them with interest.

Xie Yang felt at a loss, his nature making him unlikely to argue with others.

So many eyes on him made him anxious.

Suddenly, the familiar scent of gardenias approached, and he was pulled into a warm embrace.

“What happened?”

The familiar voice sounded in Xie Yang’s ear, and he looked back at Qi Xu, tears welling up in his eyes.

Qi Xu’s expression darkened instantly. He coldly stared at the people opposite them, then softly whispered in Xie Yang’s ear, “Who bullied you?”

Xie Yang shook his head.

It wasn’t really bullying; they just said some unpleasant things.

And they hadn’t directly named him either.

He felt upset mainly because, in his moment of helplessness, Qi Xu appeared by his side.

He didn’t have to face it alone.

He didn’t have to face anything at all, as Qi Xu would handle everything for him.

The senior, feeling outnumbered and aware of the crowd watching, felt increasingly humiliated.

“Aren’t you going too far?”

“Qi Xu, do you remember why you rejected me?”

“So what are you now?”

“Don’t you find it ironic?”

Qi Xu, hearing his name and the nonsensical rant, bluntly asked, “Who are you?”

“Pfft,” Sheng Fei couldn’t help but burst out laughing.

Even Xie Yang couldn’t help but look at Qi Xu, but he believed Qi Xu wasn’t lying—he genuinely didn’t recognize the senior.

It was like a butcher not remembering the face of every pig.

Su Huai couldn’t hold back his laughter, tears streaming from his eyes.

That line was so brutal, it obliterated the opposition in an instant.

Sure enough, the senior’s face turned ugly, and without a word, he spun around and left.

Sheng Fei: “Leaving already?”

How dull. He had hoped to witness some dramatic love triangle.

The commotion ended.

Qi Xu patted Xie Yang’s head, pulled him close, and gently asked, “Do you still feel upset?”

Xie Yang shook his head slightly.

He wasn’t really upset by those few words.

He clutched Qi Xu’s hand tightly.

“Why are you here?”

Qi Xu: “Sheng Fei said the spicy hotpot here is really good and invited me for lunch.”

Sheng Fei nodded, his face expressionless, “Yeah, that’s right.”

He had never seen Qi Xu eat such things. Qi Xu was notoriously picky about food.

Besides, he was used to being a scapegoat and a tool. There were always two others waiting to take his place.

Xie Yang asked sheepishly, “I ate this. Aren’t you mad?”

Qi Xu: “Why would I be mad?”

Xie Yang: “I thought you might be upset that I kept it from you…”

Qi Xu: “Silly, you can eat whatever you want. You don’t need Su Huai to accompany you. I can go with you anytime.”

Xie Yang smiled shyly.

He had overthought it. Qi Xu didn’t really mind.

Xie Yang didn’t notice that Sheng Fei and Su Huai were rolling their eyes.

That sounded so sweet, only Xie Yang would believe it.

In the afternoon, Xie Yang had just one class. With finals approaching, he planned to study in the library. He was in a last-minute panic, hoping not to fail.

Qi Xu’s class ended later than his, so he went to the library early and found a quiet corner by the window.

Caramel Pudding: [I’ve saved us seats, in the last row by the window. You’ll see me when you come in.]

Clingy: [Wait for me a few minutes.]

Caramel Pudding: [Okay. [Obedient.jpg]]

He took out his notebook and started working on problems. He got so absorbed in studying that he didn’t even notice Qi Xu sitting beside him.

Qi Xu waved the milk tea he bought in front of Xie Yang.

Xie Yang: “Hmm?”

Seeing Qi Xu, a smile instantly blossomed on his face. “When did you get here?”

“Just now.” Qi Xu inserted the straw for him and held it to his mouth.

Xie Yang took a sip. “So sweet.”

He offered the milk tea to Qi Xu. “Do you want to try it?”

Qi Xu bit the spot Xie Yang had just used, took a small sip, and said in a teasing tone, “It is quite sweet.”

Xie Yang’s heart raced a little. He stammered, “I meant the milk tea.”

Qi Xu raised an eyebrow, a faint smile on his lips. “So did I.”

Really?

Xie Yang had a feeling Qi Xu was teasing him.

Qi Xu: “You looked troubled earlier. Is there a problem you can’t solve?”

Xie Yang’s eyes lit up.

He handed his notebook to Qi Xu.

“Mm.”

Back in high school, Xie Yang had often wished that Qi Xu could help him with his studies.

Learning was really difficult, and he barely managed to keep up. Even though he ranked second in the grade, there was still a gap between them.

He used to think how wonderful it would be if they could study together in the library or the study room, helping each other and exchanging ideas, just like they were now.

Thinking of this, Xie Yang looked at Qi Xu with a hint of admiration in his eyes.

Qi Xu paused slightly and whispered in his ear, “Asking me for tutoring comes with a fee.”

Xie Yang turned his head, his lips brushing against Qi Xu’s cheek.

“What?”

Qi Xu: “What do you think?”

Xie Yang: “…”

Suddenly, he didn’t feel so eager to know anymore.

---

Chapter 35: I Miss You Too

The restaurant had an elegant atmosphere, with soothing piano music playing softly in the background. Beautiful roses adorned the table, creating a romantic ambiance.

Located in the tallest building in the entire city of S, this restaurant offered a panoramic view of the entire city.

Xie Yang looked out the window at the city below, enveloped in the night’s darkness, illuminated by colorful neon lights. It gave him a sense of dizzying opulence and an unsettling emptiness.

He turned back to look at Qi Xu, who was busy cutting the steak for him.

An inexplicable palpitation surged in his heart.

He took out his phone, intending to secretly capture this moment with a photo.

Unexpectedly, Qi Xu suddenly glanced at the camera of his phone, his usually stern face softening with indulgence and tenderness.

“Are you taking a photo of me?” Qi Xu asked.

Embarrassed, Xie Yang tried to retract his hand. He didn’t expect Qi Xu to notice his sneaky action.

Qi Xu lowered his gaze and continued to slice the steak, allowing Xie Yang to relax a bit.

“Go ahead and take photos, I’ll cooperate,” Qi Xu said casually.

Xie Yang nervously took several pictures of him.

Originally, he had planned to post one of these photos discreetly on his Moments (WeChat), setting it to be visible only to himself. On his secondary WeChat account, which only Qi Xu had added as a friend, they hadn’t contacted each other for a long time.

Since that incident where he had fallen from grace, Xie Yang had been using his previous WeChat account. The secondary account had become his secret hideout, hidden from Qi Xu’s knowledge.

However, he hadn’t expected Qi Xu to catch him in the act of taking his photo. Xie Yang wished he could find a hole to hide in.

He didn’t want Qi Xu to think he was doing something strange by secretly taking his photos. Xie Yang quickly tried to distract him, shifting his attention.

“Can I post your photo on Moments?” Xie Yang asked.

Qi Xu looked at him in surprise. He had thought Xie Yang would wait until they had been dating for a long time before choosing to go public. He didn’t expect Xie Yang to compromise so soon.

Although he didn’t know what had changed Xie Yang’s mind, he hoped Xie Yang would continue to be brave like this.

A smile gradually spread across Qi Xu’s lips, his eyes revealing his pleasant surprise. “I would be very happy.”

Blushing, Xie Yang shyly avoided his gaze and opened Moments, selecting the photo he had just taken. However, he struggled for a long time with the caption.

[My boyfriend…]

It didn’t seem right. Xie Yang deleted it word by word.

[A pleasant weekend…]

Why would a photo of Qi Xu be posted with “a pleasant weekend”? That would be odd too, so he deleted that as well.

[Dinner…]

Xie Yang sighed and finally deleted it.

Watching Xie Yang frown in frustration, Qi Xu couldn’t help but chuckle. “Give me your phone.”

Xie Yang looked at him warily, clutching his phone tightly.

He had a feeling that if he let Qi Xu post on Moments, he might end up with something strange.

Qi Xu pushed the plate of sliced steak toward him and said lightly, “Eat well.”

Under Qi Xu’s authority, Xie Yang reluctantly handed over his phone.

Qi Xu opened the photo, smiled as he typed a few words, then turned off the screen.

Seeing Xie Yang’s tense expression, he pocketed the phone and reminded him again, “Eat well.”

Xie Yang had no choice but to suppress his curiosity and focus on his dinner.

It wasn’t until Xie Yang finished his meal that Qi Xu returned the phone to him.

Xie Yang eagerly opened Moments and looked at it, his expression showing disbelief.

He only had about thirty friends on Moments, but the photo had received twenty likes.

It was the first time he had seen so many likes. His emotions were mixed.

Usually, even getting five likes on a post about attending a business event was difficult.

He repeatedly looked at the post Qi Xu had edited for him on Moments.

[My boyfriend.]

Qi Xu had also put the child’s bracelet back on him, looking at his flushed face and kissing his forehead.

His darling would be shy because of a little action of his.

Especially cute.

After dinner, the two walked around the mall.

The shopping cart was filled with various snacks that Xie Yang liked to eat.

Xie Yang watched Qi Xu buy fruit for him and quickly refused, “I won’t be able to carry it later.”

Moreover, the holiday was about to start, and he couldn’t stay for long.

Qi Xu said indifferently, “I’ll help you carry it upstairs.”

He originally had this idea and wanted to go to Xie Yang’s dormitory.

Xie Yang could only follow him and fill the shopping cart, but unfortunately, the instant noodles he selected were put back on the shelves one by one.

Qi Xu was particularly insistent on this point and didn’t allow him to eat only instant noodles when he was hungry.

He always felt like Qi Xu was raising pigs.

There was even an electronic scale at home, and Qi Xu would hold him every day to see.

He was like a little pig waiting to be slaughtered, and maybe he could be killed after he was fat and white.

On the way back to school, Qi Xu carried two large bags of snacks in front, and Xie Yang obediently followed behind him.

Xie Yang didn’t know if it was his illusion, but he always felt that the eyes around him intentionally or unintentionally fell on him and Qi Xu.

There were various complex looks of curiosity, shock, dissatisfaction, and so on.

When they took the elevator, Qi Xu protected Xie Yang in the corner and used his tall figure to separate him from others.

Xie Yang looked up at him eagerly, clutching his clothes.

Cute.

Qi Xu found his little expression cute.

He really wanted to pinch Xie Yang’s soft face, but he couldn’t free his hands for now.

After staring at him for a while, he couldn’t help but lean down and kiss his cheek.

In the narrow elevator, there was an instant exclamation followed by a sudden silence.

The atmosphere was electric.

Xie Yang’s face quickly turned red as he glared at Qi Xu.

How could he kiss him in front of so many people? The elevator was crowded, and everyone saw it.

Qi Xu just smiled smugly.

Just as he was about to lean in and kiss Xie Yang again, the elevator reached the fifth floor.

Xie Yang, head down, hurriedly pushed Qi Xu out of the elevator.

Even as the doors closed, he could still hear the murmurs from inside.

Feeling defeated, Xie Yang followed behind Qi Xu.

Click—

The dormitory door opened, and the three roommates who had been chatting inside instinctively turned to look at the entrance.

Seeing the familiar face, they were stunned.

“Old Qi?”

“What are you doing here?”

Qi Xu, tall and imposing, completely blocked the view of Xie Yang, who was behind him.

Xie Yang peeked out from behind Qi Xu and waved, “Uh… good evening.”

Song Xingyu said, “I knew there had to be a reason for Qi Xu to suddenly show up.”

Seeing the two large bags of snacks Qi Xu was carrying, Xi Rui teased mercilessly, “So you’re Xie Yang’s errand boy now.”

Ignoring their teasing, Qi Xu placed the bags on Xie Yang’s desk.

Xie Yang pulled out a chair for him to sit on, “Thank you for your hard work.”

Seeing the children’s bracelets they were wearing, Su Huai couldn’t help but laugh, “It’s like you’re babysitting. You two really do look the part.”

Xie Yang, who only reached Qi Xu’s shoulder, had a small and delicate appearance, looking especially youthful. It wouldn’t be strange to mistake him for Qi Xu’s younger brother.

Embarrassed, Xie Yang started to take off his bracelet. Seeing Qi Xu extending his hand, he lowered his head and helped him remove it.

Listening to his roommates’ teasing laughter, Xie Yang grew anxious.

Qi Xu, seated on the chair, wrapped his arm around Xie Yang’s waist and pulled him onto his lap.

“Don’t rush, take your time,” he said.

Xie Yang struggled to break free, whispering in Qi Xu’s ear, “They’ll make fun of us.”

Qi Xu glanced at the gossiping Xi Rui and Song Xingyu and snorted, “Ignore those who are single. Let them be envious.”

Xie Yang glanced timidly at his roommates and the observing Su Huai.

Xi Rui exclaimed, “Hey, who’s envious? Not me!”

Song Xingyu added, “Honestly, it still feels unreal that you two are dating. How about a kiss to prove it?”

Xie Yang: “…”

Qi Xu shot him a cool glance.

Su Huai, watching their intimate interaction, squinted slightly.

Xie Yang’s little face was moist, and Qi Xu was emitting hormones all over his body.

It seemed these past three days had been quite eventful for them.

Embarrassed under Su Huai’s gaze, Xie Yang jumped off Qi Xu’s lap and began organizing the snacks Qi Xu had bought for him.

Taking this chance, Qi Xu looked around the dorm.

Xie Yang had very few belongings, unlike Song Xingyu and Xi Rui, whose walls were covered with brand-name sneakers, their desks cluttered with figurines and electronic devices. Even Su Huai’s desk was filled with skincare products.

Xie Yang only had a simple laptop and some study supplies, plus the instant noodles in his cabinet.

Watching Xie Yang’s busy figure, Qi Xu tugged on his hand and pulled him into his arms, coaxing, “The dorm conditions aren’t great. Why don’t you come stay with me?”

Xie Yang was puzzled. Their dorm was among the best, recently renovated and still feeling new.

Seeing Qi Xu’s serious expression, Xie Yang asked, “If we live together, can I sleep in the guest room?”

Qi Xu raised an eyebrow, “Of course, you can sleep wherever you want.”

Xie Yang didn’t believe him. He had learned the hard way. So he softly refused Qi Xu, “The dorm is really nice. I don’t plan to move for now.”

Though disappointed, Qi Xu realized that the winter break was coming soon.

Xie Yang checked the time and urged, “It’s getting late. You should head home.”

Qi Xu: “Are you kicking me out?”

Xie Yang quickly shook his head, “No!”

He took Qi Xu’s hand and led him out of the dorm.

Song Xingyu watched their backs as they left, shaking his head and sighing. The entire dormitory was filled with the unmistakable scent of love.

It was clear that being in a relationship could change a person completely.

Xi Rui couldn’t help but vent in their group chat.

Xi Rui: [Suddenly, I understand what Sheng Fei meant.]

Sheng Fei: [What?]

Xi Rui: [Old Qi is just in a relationship, but he seems like a completely different person. Is he still the cold, ruthless guy we knew?]

Song Xingyu: [He’s totally a love-struck fool now.]

Sheng Fei: [What did Old Qi do this time that’s so out of character?]

Xi Rui: [He brought Xie Yang back to the dorm just to check it out, then complained about the dorm’s conditions, trying to get Xie Yang to move in with him.]

Xi Rui: [It’s ridiculous. I think our dorm has the best environment in the whole city. It’s clean and neat, where’s the problem?]

Xi Rui: [We all keep the place spotless. How can it be considered bad?]

Song Xingyu: [I get it. Old Qi is just cunning, using his looks to charm Xie Yang and make him fall for him completely.]

Sheng Fei: [Old Qi has always been sneaky! He’s not a good guy. Only someone as pure and gentle as Xie Yang would be fooled by him.]

Xi Rui: [Agreed.]

Sheng Fei: [By the way, I set them up. Shouldn’t Old Qi treat me to a meal? @CX330]

Xi Rui: [I want a meal too.]

Song Xingyu: [Count me in.]

CX330: [Did you get less meat at the last hotpot?]

Sheng Fei: [That’s different. Don’t you dare say that. I was just a tool last time.]

CX330: [Alright, I won’t call you next time I need a tool.]

Song Xingyu: [You can call me. I like being a tool. @CX330]

Xi Rui: [Me too. I won’t even charge. @CX330]

Sheng Fei: […]

It’s easy to invite guests, but hard to get rid of them.

After agreeing to several unfair terms, Xie Yang finally returned to the dorm.

When he came back, his lips were even redder than before, and his face was flushed with an unnatural shyness.

Su Huai glanced at him and shook his head.

He could tell that Xie Yang had been thoroughly teased.

Su Huai: “By the way, have you checked the forum these days?”

Xie Yang: “No, I haven’t been on the forum in a while.”

Su Huai nodded, “Then you probably don’t know. The forum is quite interesting right now. It’s a big scene of heartbreak and disappointment.”

Xie Yang: “Why?”

Su Huai: “Remember when you went to wait for Qi Xu at the Economics and Management building?”

Xie Yang recalled the incident, remembering that many students had seen them.

Su Huai: “At first, everyone was speculating about your relationship. Qi Xu had said he wasn’t gay and wasn’t interested in men. Even after you two held hands, they didn’t believe it until someone posted a photo of you together and screenshots of your Moments. Now everyone’s freaking out.”

Xie Yang’s heart skipped a beat, and he quickly pulled out his phone to check the forum.

Was all his information exposed on the forum?

Would there be a lot of people attacking him, and what about Qi Xu?

His previously shy expression vanished, turning pale, and his hands trembled.

Seeing this, Su Huai quickly reassured him, “Don’t worry. There are no posts revealing your identity. The admins have been deleting any posts with your information. It seems Qi Xu has a legal team ready to act if any of your details get leaked.”

Xie Yang was stunned for a moment, then breathed a sigh of relief, “How…”

Su Huai: “I heard Qi Xu prepared a legal team. If any of your information gets leaked, they’ll take immediate action. The admins have been constantly deleting posts about you.”

Xie Yang hadn’t expected things to develop this way.

It turned out Qi Xu had been prepared all along, knowing exactly what he was afraid of and worrying about, and had silently done so much for him behind the scenes.

He felt an indescribable sense of gratitude.

He scrolled through the forum posts one by one. Although there were various opinions, there was very little personal information about him, and his photos had been thoroughly deleted.

Most posts were simply curious about how he had managed to win Qi Xu’s heart.

There were also some malicious speculations, and he saw Su Huai, using a pseudonym, arguing with those spreading rumors.

Xie Yang sniffled, his eyes reddening.

A message from Qi Xu popped up.

CX330: [Baby, I’m home.]

CX330: [I miss you.]

Caramel Pudding: [I miss you too.]

CX330: [I don’t have classes the morning after tomorrow. Come stay at my place tomorrow night, okay? Baby?]

Xie Yang’s heart softened for only a few seconds before it hardened again.

---

Chapter 34: Lovely Baby

The winter afternoon sun was warm and gentle, lazily streaming through the windows into the room.

Xie Yang basked in the comforting warmth, holding a tablet as he dozed off in the rocking chair.

He still felt the pleasant fatigue from earlier.

The humidifier gurgled softly, and the occasional crackling of the charcoal fire in the fireplace seemed like a lullaby.

On the tablet, the countdown to the next match opponent occasionally roused Xie Yang from his drowsiness. He struggled to open his eyes, buying a few heroes from the store to prepare for battle. Before the game could load the next opponent, he fell asleep again.

Game equipment and coins were scattered all over the chessboard.

When he fell into deep sleep, Xie Yang still thought, thankfully it was Qi Xu’s account, so he wouldn’t lose any points.

That was really fortunate.

After finishing up in the study, Qi Xu came out and saw this scene: his beloved lying deeply asleep on the rocking chair. The small tea stove next to him was still emitting heat, and the tablet in his hand paused at the game’s eighth place screen.

A sweet feeling filled Qi Xu’s heart.

Gently taking the tablet from Xie Yang’s hand and setting it aside, Qi Xu lifted him horizontally into his arms.

The sensation of being suspended woke Xie Yang from his dream. He blinked sleepily at Qi Xu, memories flooding back to the night before.

Subconsciously, he wrapped his arms around Qi Xu’s neck, burying his face in his chest, murmuring softly, “Don’t.”

Qi Xu halted in his steps, looking down at the person in his arms, his expression softening with tenderness.

He laid Xie Yang down on the bed and retrieved the ointment from the nearby drawer.

Xie Yang drifted off into a deep sleep as the cold ointment was applied to his thighs, causing a shiver to run through him. He let out a soft hum but showed no sign of waking up.

Qi Xu held his legs, his gaze slightly eager, his fingertips lightly touching his wound, his breath becoming irregular, the sound of swallowing saliva echoing distinctly in the quiet bedroom.

The cold touch made Xie Yang shiver. He slowly opened his eyes and looked at the man holding him.

A faint blush spread across his cheeks, like ripe red persimmons, fragrant and soft.

Slowly, Qi Xu’s actions took on a different flavor.

Looking at the shy Xie Yang lying in his arms, Qi Xu couldn’t resist lowering his head to kiss his lips.

Thirty minutes later.

Qi Xu finally finished applying the ointment.

He tucked Xie Yang back into the blanket, lightly kissed his flushed cheek, then turned and headed to the bathroom.

Huddled under the covers, Xie Yang felt like he was emitting smoke.

There was still a lingering scent in the air, soon replaced by the fragrance of gardenias.

Listening to the splashing water in the bathroom, Xie Yang buried his face in the blanket.

This was too much.

They had agreed it was just for applying the ointment, but he ended up teasing him again.

…

New Year’s Day vacation passed quickly, and it took Xie Yang three full days to recover.

By the time he had rested well, the holiday was coming to an end.

Most of the marks on his body had faded, except for the prominent bite mark on his neck. Fortunately, it was winter, so he could cover his neck with a scarf when going out.

On the last day of the holiday, there were still many tourists on the streets.

Xie Yang held Qi Xu’s hand tightly, walking closely beside him.

Although unfamiliar places made him feel uneasy, he enjoyed the bustling streets, experiencing the lively atmosphere.

There were many vendors on the pedestrian street. Qi Xu stopped in front of a stall selling children’s bracelets and casually picked up a blue one, decisively scanning to pay.

Before Xie Yang could even react to why Qi Xu was interested in such a children’s bracelet, the blue bracelet was already on his wrist.

Qi Xu put the other end of the bracelet on his own wrist, raising an eyebrow and smiling, “Baby, now you don’t have to worry about getting lost.”

Xie Yang looked at the bracelet, blushing slightly, “This is something for kids.”

Qi Xu ruffled his hair and teased with a gentle smile, “Aren’t you that kid?”

Xie Yang was always stirred by just a few teasing words from him.

Seeing flowers being sold on the roadside, Xie Yang suddenly remembered the bouquet of roses he had given Qi Xu on Christmas, but he hadn’t seen it in the apartment.

Could it be that Qi Xu was so angry at that time that he threw it away?

Xie Yang tugged at Qi Xu’s sleeve nervously, looking up at him and asking, “The bouquet of roses I gave you before…”

Qi Xu: “I had someone take it back home for me instead of leaving it in the apartment, so you didn’t see it.”

Xie Yang looked up at him, his eyes bright like water, and he smiled brightly, “There’s still a little bit of yarn left from last time. How about I crochet a keychain for you?”

Qi Xu pinched his cheek, a smile spreading endlessly, “I’ll like whatever you give me.”

He liked Xie Yang. Anything related to Xie Yang, even if it was just something bought casually on the street, he would like it because it came from Xie Yang.

Finally, the date Xie Yang had originally planned was realized tonight.

They were like an ordinary young couple, playing crane machines together, going to the arcade to play video games, and taking cute couple photos.

Looking at the printed photo, Xie Yang felt somewhat moved.

When taking his high school graduation photo, he had once dreamed of taking a picture with Qi Xu, hoping to keep it as a memento.

Today, it seemed like all his dreams about Qi Xu had slowly come true.

Seeing him lost in thought while looking at the photo, Qi Xu draped his arm around his shoulder and asked gently, “What are you thinking about?”

Xie Yang glanced at him shyly, unable to hide his embarrassment, and confessed, “I want to carry it with me, but I don’t know where to put it.”

Qi Xu was momentarily surprised by his words, his love for Xie Yang surging wildly.

He pulled Xie Yang into his arms, holding his waist tightly, and looked down with a gentle smile, teasing, “Baby, did you forget we have our phones?”

Feeling awkward about his clumsiness, Xie Yang wondered how he could forget. He could take many pictures with Qi Xu, use them as wallpapers, chat backgrounds, WeChat avatars, business card backgrounds, and so on.

Qi Xu immediately took a picture of them together.

He leaned against Qi Xu’s chest, shyly looking at the camera.

While Qi Xu grinned widely and unabashedly.

Seeing Qi Xu logging into his WeChat account, changing the long-standing black and white photo to their joint photo, Xie Yang realized that Qi Xu had also changed the current WeChat account’s photo to another joint photo of them.

Then he noticed that Qi Xu’s phone lock screen had also changed to a new photo, not their joint photo, but a solo picture of him.

Xie Yang: “Can I see it?”

Qi Xu raised an eyebrow, “See what?”

Xie Yang: “…”

He just wanted to see if he drooled in his sleep, otherwise it would look so ugly.

Qi Xu held his phone high, and even if Xie Yang jumped, he couldn’t grab it. He deliberately teased Xie Yang, “You drooled a bit, but you’re still cute.”

Xie Yang anxiously grabbed his lapel, pleading, “Please delete it quickly.”

Qi Xu: “Why delete it? It’s so cute.”

Xie Yang looked at him with a grievance, “Please, I’m begging you.”

Qi Xu bent down, cupped Xie Yang’s face and kissed him lightly on the lips, then handed the phone back to him, coaxing, “I was joking. The drooling is fake, but the cuteness is real.”

Even drooling is cute when it’s Baby Xie.

Xie Yang accused him, “You’re bullying me again.”

Qi Xu, with a mischievous grin, replied, “How could I bear to?”

---

Chapter 33: Winter Break Plans

The sound of water in the bathroom echoed once again. Xie Yang had lost count of how many times it had been.

Qi Xu was holding him as they sat in the bathtub.

Warm water slowly filled the tub.

Xie Yang’s voice was hoarse, tinged with tears as he pleaded with Qi Xu, “It’s too hot.”

Qi Xu kissed away his tears, lifted him out of the water, and carried him to the mirror.

In the steam-filled bathroom, Qi Xu held his hand, wiping the mirror clear bit by bit.

“Mm.”

Xie Yang was forced to look at his reflection in the mirror, his eyes tinged with red, breathing erratic, his face flushed.

He weakly propped himself against the mirror, falling into Qi Xu’s arms before collapsing.

Qi Xu picked him up, his arms hooked under Xie Yang’s knees.

He made him watch the scene.

Xie Yang’s faint whimpers spilled from his lips as he lay limp in Qi Xu’s arms, softly crying.

Qi Xu’s kisses roamed his neck, his heavy breathing filling Xie Yang’s ears.

“Ah…”

Xie Yang trembled all over, his pupils dilated, his mind a blank.

Qi Xu placed him back in the warm water. Xie Yang leaned against the bathtub, exhausted, on the verge of slipping underwater.

Feeling Qi Xu’s touch, Xie Yang mumbled, “No more.”

Qi Xu soothed him, “Sleep, baby. I won’t bother you anymore.”

About ten minutes later, Qi Xu gently placed Xie Yang on the bed.

The warm, soft bedding finally gave Xie Yang a sense of security, the familiar scent of gardenias calming him.

By the time Qi Xu returned from the bathroom, Xie Yang was already asleep.

Qi Xu sat beside the bed, tenderly gazing at his sleeping face, his fingers lightly tracing his features.

Xie Yang’s pale pink lips were now swollen. Qi Xu frowned with concern.

He gently lifted the blanket covering Xie Yang and applied ointment to his bruises.

His chest was covered with bite marks, red and swollen. Qi Xu barely touched him, and Xie Yang instinctively covered his chest, curling up.

Not wanting to wake him, Qi Xu stopped.

He climbed into bed quietly, laying beside Xie Yang, draping an arm over his waist, and fell asleep with their feet touching.

…

The next day at noon.

The winter sun filtered through the sheer curtains, bathing the room in a gentle light. Xie Yang slept soundly, wrapped in the blanket.

His eyelashes fluttered as he slowly woke up in the warm bed.

As Xie Yang tried to turn over, pain shot through his body, and memories of the previous night came flooding back, dispelling his drowsiness. He opened his eyes in a daze.

The events of the night before played in his mind.

Xie Yang’s face turned crimson at an observable speed.

Click—

The soft sound of the door opening drew Xie Yang’s attention, and he met Qi Xu’s gaze. The memories of the previous night flooded back, making Xie Yang quickly turn away, hiding his face under the blanket in embarrassment.

Qi Xu chuckled quietly, placing a glass of honey water on the bedside table. He lifted the blanket and gently pulled Xie Yang into his arms.

Xie Yang’s legs were sore, and the sensitive areas felt a slight, tearing pain.

“It hurts.”

Xie Yang managed to whisper, his throat dry and raspy.

Qi Xu quickly handed him the water, watching as Xie Yang gulped down the entire glass, feeling sorry for him: “Do you want more?”

Xie Yang shook his head.

Seeing Qi Xu holding the ointment, Xie Yang pushed against him, his face flushing hotter. He grabbed the ointment and mumbled, “I’ll do it myself.”

Qi Xu originally wanted to argue that Xie Yang wouldn’t be able to reach, but seeing his embarrassed expression, he relented, “Okay, I’ll prepare lunch. Apply the ointment and come out to eat?”

Xie Yang nodded obediently.

Qi Xu kissed his forehead and said, “If you need help, just call me.”

Xie Yang didn’t respond, only pushing him away, signaling him to leave quickly.

After Qi Xu left the bedroom, Xie Yang got out of bed. As soon as he stood up, his legs felt weak and wobbly, almost causing him to fall back onto the bed.

Step by step, he slowly made his way to the bathroom, his pace uneven.

Finally reaching the bathroom, Xie Yang stared at his reflection, stunned.

The loose pajamas couldn’t hide the numerous love bites on his chest, and the faded bite mark on his neck was covered with fresh ones.

The skin on his chest was broken and bleeding, his waist bruised with purple marks.

His thighs were covered with dense love bites and deep fingerprints.

He felt like a rag doll that had been chewed up by a puppy.

Xie Yang took a long time in the bathroom, and when he came out, he smelled faintly of herbal medicine.

As soon as he opened the door, Qi Xu put down what he was holding, came straight to him, picked him up, and gently placed him on the soft cushion of the sofa.

Qi Xu knelt beside him on one knee, holding his ankle, and asked worriedly, “Are you uncomfortable anywhere?”

Xie Yang looked at him, unable to suppress a smile, and patted his head.

“Just a bit tired.”

His voice was hoarse and tinged with exhaustion.

Qi Xu: “How about you eat and then take another nap?”

Xie Yang looked at him for a while without speaking, then opened his arms and softly called out, “Hug me.”

Qi Xu was slightly stunned. He reached out, slipped his arms under Xie Yang, and lifted him onto his lap, holding him gently.

Xie Yang lay against Qi Xu’s chest, hugging his slim waist and inhaling the faint gardenia scent.

Suddenly remembering something, Xie Yang lifted his head and kissed Qi Xu’s lips, smiling as he said, “Happy New Year, brother.”

Qi Xu, with one arm around his waist and the other hand cupping the back of his neck, smiled warmly.

“Happy New Year, baby.”

Qi Xu held him close, gently massaging his sore waist.

Xie Yang’s waist was sensitive; even the light touch made him squirm and protest softly, almost like he was pouting, “It tickles.”

Qi Xu had to adjust his position, letting Xie Yang sit on the sofa with his legs stretched out so he could massage them.

Xie Yang leaned against him, watching Qi Xu’s long, slender fingers, his face flushing red.

Qi Xu paused his massage, laughed suddenly, and pinched Xie Yang’s flushed cheeks, teasing, “What are you thinking about?”

Xie Yang, shy and stumbling over his words, replied, “N-nothing.”

At that moment, his stomach growled with hunger. Qi Xu touched his flat belly and whispered in his ear, “Last night this was all puffed up.”

The blatant teasing left Xie Yang speechless.

He tugged at Qi Xu’s shirt and buried his face in his chest.

Qi Xu loved teasing him.

After lunch, Xie Yang lay in a rocking chair, basking in the sun.

He was browsing his social media when a call came in.

Frowning slightly, Xie Yang chose to answer.

“Mom.”

Rong Man had called to invite him to stay at home during the winter break. Hearing Xie Yang’s voice, she quickly asked, “Yang Yang, what’s wrong with your voice? Do you have a cold?”

Xie Yang coughed lightly, clearing his throat, “Yes, just a bit of a cold.”

Rong Man: “How did you catch a cold again? Are you not wearing enough clothes, or is your blanket not warm enough?”

Xie Yang: “No, I just got careless and caught a draft. I’ve already taken medicine, so don’t worry.”

“Alright.” Rong Man couldn’t say much more and reminded him to come home during the break.

Hearing the words “winter break,” Xie Yang’s good mood faded.

Xie Yang: “I want to go back to the countryside.”

Rong Man paused, then slowly spoke, “Are you unhappy staying at Mom’s house?”

She blurted out the question instinctively, only realizing afterward what she had said.

But once said, it couldn’t be taken back.

There was silence on the phone.

Xie Yang hadn’t expected her to bring up this topic so directly.

For some reason, he didn’t want to hide it anymore.

“Yes,” he replied.

There was a few seconds of silence from Rong Man, then she suddenly continued, “Mom and Uncle have secured a house in the city, a three-bedroom one. You can move in anytime. Mom has set aside a room for you.”

Xie Yang thought for a moment, then just smiled lightly, “The cherry tree in front of Grandma’s house is blooming. I want to go back and see it.”

Rong Man didn’t say anything more, exchanged a few pleasantries, then hung up the phone.

Thinking about the winter break, Xie Yang’s thoughts drifted far.

There were only a few days left until winter break started.

Would he have to be apart from Qi Xu for many days?

Just the thought of not seeing Qi Xu for so many days made him anxious.

And when the school closed for the break, he couldn’t stay on campus for too long.

Xie Yang’s thoughts were in disarray.

Should he proactively mention to Qi Xu that he wanted to stay here for a few days and return to his hometown later?

When Qi Xu walked up to Xie Yang with a fruit tray, he noticed Xie Yang lost in thought, occasionally furrowing his brows as if troubled by many things.

Qi Xu gently touched his head and softly asked, “What are you thinking about so deeply?”

Xie Yang looked at him, wanting to speak but hesitating, the words stuck in his throat, unsure how to say it.

Qi Xu prompted, “Is there something you can’t tell me?”

Xie Yang shook his head, “Do you have any plans for the winter break?”

Qi Xu smiled knowingly, seeming to understand his dilemma.

He smirked lazily and said, “Oh, yes. I plan to stay in the apartment with you for ten days or half a month without going out, and every day, we’ll study the contents of romantic movies.”

Xie Yang: “…”

Suddenly, he felt that not seeing each other for two months of break might not be such a bad thing.

---

Chapter 32: Move a Little

At midnight, the clock struck twelve, ushering in a new year.

Boom—

Huge fireworks exploded in the night sky, with brilliant colors intertwined like a visual feast.

---

Chapter 31: Happy New Year

As dusk fell, snowflakes silently drifted down.

This was the last snowfall of the year.

The winter streets were always filled with the sweet scent of roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes.

Click—

The car door opened, and Qi Xu returned, placing a wax paper package on Xie Yang’s lap.

“Have you been waiting long?”

Xie Yang shook his head and brushed the snow off Qi Xu’s shoulders.

He had just glanced at the roasted sweet potatoes, and Qi Xu went to buy them for him.

Xie Yang peeled off the sweet potato’s skin, and the sweet aroma instantly filled the car. He held it to Qi Xu’s lips, letting him take the first bite.

Qi Xu: “It’s very sweet.”

Xie Yang didn’t particularly like sweet potatoes, but they always reminded him of the past.

In his distant memories, the winters were very cold, and his only companions were his grandmother and an endless supply of roasted sweet potatoes.

Xie Yang: “Where are we going?”

He noticed that Qi Xu wasn’t taking the road back to the apartment near the school.

Qi Xu: “Taking you out for a stroll. It’s New Year’s Eve, so it should be quite lively.”

Xie Yang’s eyes lit up slightly, feeling a bit excited.

Even with the light snowfall, it didn’t dampen the citizens’ enthusiasm for celebrating the New Year.

The city center’s buildings, plazas, and shopping streets were packed with people.

Xie Yang clung to Qi Xu’s arm as they walked down the street, feeling a bit intimidated by the crowd.

Qi Xu: “Do you want to go inside and have a look?”

Xie Yang shook his head: “I don’t want to squeeze through the crowd.”

There were too many people, and he didn’t like it. He was also afraid of getting separated from Qi Xu.

Qi Xu remembered the messages in his WeChat group chat and suggested, “How about we go somewhere else?”

Xie Yang nodded: “Okay.”

Anywhere was fine, as long as he was with Qi Xu.

As night deepened, Xie Yang followed Qi Xu into a high-end club.

He had never been to such a place before.

The grand hall was resplendent, with neon lights casting brilliant colors, and the air seemed to carry a faint, intoxicating scent.

Qi Xu handed a membership card to the waiter, and they followed the waiter to a VIP room.

As the door opened, the deafening music stopped abruptly, and everyone in the VIP room turned to look at the entrance.

“Didn’t they say Old Qi wasn’t coming?”

“Tsk, why did he bring someone?”

“What’s going on, Old Qi? You brought a guy?”

“Xie Yang?!”

Xie Yang had been hiding obediently behind Qi Xu, but upon hearing someone call his name, he instinctively looked up.

It was Xi Rui, his roommate.

At that moment, Xi Rui was staring wide-eyed at their intertwined hands.

Xie Yang felt a bit flustered, unsure whether to let go.

He struggled slightly, but Qi Xu held his hand even tighter.

Xi Rui looked as if he had seen a ghost, stammering in shock.

“You two?”

“You and Old Qi?”

“You two are dating?”

“Xie Yang, you and Qi Xu, you’re together?!”

Xie Yang nodded bashfully. He hadn’t expected to run into Xi Rui and Song Xingyu here.

Nor had he expected to reveal his relationship with Qi Xu to them so soon.

He had been worried they might find it unacceptable.

Song Xingyu looked at Sheng Fei in shock and said, “So, what you said about Old Qi’s dating online is true?”

Sheng Fei replied helplessly, “Of course it’s true. When have I ever lied to you? Wait, you guys know each other?”

Seeing Xi Rui and Song Xingyu’s dumbfounded expressions, Sheng Fei realized they must know Old Qi’s partner.

If they knew each other, how did they not realize that Old Qi and his partner were dating right under their noses?!

Xi Rui: “Xiao Xie is our roommate, Old Song and mine.”

Sheng Fei couldn’t help but roll his eyes at them: “You two are ridiculous. Old Qi has been dating your roommate for a while now, and you didn’t even notice?”

Watching Qi Xu and Xie Yang sit on the sofa, with Qi Xu doting on Xie Yang, Song Xingyu looked like he had seen a ghost: “We didn’t notice at all…”

When did they start dating?

He only found out last night that Xie Yang was in a relationship.

If Xi Rui hadn’t seen Xie Yang on a video call, they wouldn’t have even realized Xie Yang was dating someone.

Xi Rui remembered introducing Xie Yang to Qi Xu, only for Qi Xu to ruthlessly reject the idea and even berate him.

And now, Qi Xu was actually dating Xie Yang. This twist was unbelievable.

So, the person Xi Rui saw on Xie Yang’s video call last night was Qi Xu?

No wonder he had thought the person looked so familiar.

Watching Qi Xu ask the waiter for a cup of hot milk while coaxing Xie Yang, Xi Rui couldn’t help but comment, “Old Qi, do you remember three months ago when I told you I wanted to introduce someone to you? I said that person had a gentle personality and was definitely your type. Do you remember that?”

Qi Xu: “…”

What an awkward topic to bring up now.

Xie Yang also looked at Qi Xu.

He had overheard Qi Xu say he wasn’t interested, didn’t like him, and didn’t like men.

Feeling Xie Yang’s gaze, Qi Xu’s urge to throttle Xi Rui grew.

If looks could kill, Xi Rui would have been sliced to pieces by Qi Xu’s glare.

Xi Rui, enduring Qi Xu’s cold stare, continued, “What did you say back then?”

Qi Xu cut him off, “You can sh*t up now.”

Xi Rui quickly moved to sit far away from Qi Xu, teasing, “You said you weren’t interested, didn’t know him, didn’t like him, and told me not to introduce him.”

Qi Xu: “…”

“Ah, I remember asking you, ‘Old Qi, do you want a partner or not? If you do, I’ll introduce someone.’ If you had said yes, I would have introduced Xie Yang to you. It’s a shame. If you hadn’t refused back then, maybe you two would have hit it off sooner.”

Qi Xu: “…”

Xie Yang burst out laughing.

Qi Xu: “Baby, I didn’t say that.”

Xie Yang’s smile didn’t falter as he whispered, “Actually, I heard it. I was in the dorm room at the time. Xi Rui didn’t notice I was eavesdropping.”

Back then, Qi Xu didn’t know him, so it was natural for him to say such things. Xie Yang found it understandable.

Although he had felt sad, it wasn’t Qi Xu’s fault.

Those old wounds had long been healed by the countless kisses they had shared.

Qi Xu squeezed Xie Yang’s hand slightly, and after a few seconds of silence, he spoke in a hoarse voice, “So, when you rejected my confession, saying I didn’t like you, it was because of what I said back then?”

Xie Yang was stunned.

His smile faded a bit, and he said softly, “It’s okay. I didn’t take those words to heart.”

Qi Xu’s eyes reddened, his face tense.

It was the first time Xie Yang had seen him so distressed.

Qi Xu looked at him, his eyes filled with complex emotions, and said in a low voice, “Back then, you liked me, didn’t you?”

Xie Yang covered Qi Xu’s hand with his cold one, gently patting it, his eyes filled with a comforting smile, “I still like you very much now, even more than back then.”

Qi Xu held Xie Yang’s hand and kissed his wrist.

Once again, Xie Yang had managed to soothe him.

It should have been Qi Xu who comforted Xie Yang.

Just a moment ago, Qi Xu’s demeanor had been off, and Xi Rui, unsure if there were misunderstandings he was unaware of, regretted bringing up past events to tease them. Seeing that their emotions had settled, he finally breathed a sigh of relief.

Sheng Fei came over with a bottle of wine, poured each of them a glass, and said, “Here’s to Old Qi and Xie Yang, wishing you a long and loving relationship.”

Xi Rui quickly raised his glass to toast Qi Xu and Xie Yang: “Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together.”

Song Xingyu: “I’m not good with words, so just congratulations.”

The remaining friends also offered their congratulations, making Xie Yang blush.

This felt almost like a…

Qi Xu: “Thanks, but I have to drive, so I won’t drink.”

Xie Yang looked at their wine glasses, then at the milk in his hand, and gave Qi Xu a longing look.

He tugged on Qi Xu’s sleeve and whispered, “I want to drink too.”

Qi Xu poured a small amount of wine for him: “You can only have this much.”

Xie Yang sniffed it. The smell was harsh and unappealing to him, but he took a small sip.

The strong, spicy taste exploded in his mouth, and his expression changed instantly.

It tasted awful.

Seeing his reaction, Qi Xu couldn’t help but laugh. He quickly handed the glass of milk back to Xie Yang: “Drink some milk to soothe the taste of the alcohol.”

Xie Yang gulped down several mouthfuls of milk, finally washing away the strange taste.

Sheng Fei glanced at the couple sitting in the corner and could hardly stand to watch.

Song Xingyu and Xi Rui: “…”

Xie Yang didn’t seem like the Xie Yang they knew, and Qi Xu didn’t seem like the Qi Xu they knew either.

Sheng Fei, meanwhile, was off-key and howling into the mic, singing sad love songs while the others played cards.

After hearing Sheng Fei sing, Xie Yang lost any desire to sing himself; he didn’t want to embarrass himself.

He sat obediently beside Qi Xu, watching him play cards, though he couldn’t quite understand the game. Eventually, he just held Qi Xu’s arm and played on his phone.

Xie Yang’s biological clock was precise, and as evening came, he started to feel sleepy. He yawned.

Qi Xu: “Feeling tired?”

Xie Yang, trying to stay awake, shook his head: “Not tired.”

Qi Xu put his cards back on the table and said, “That’s it for tonight. We’re leaving.”

Song Xingyu: “Alright, you guys go ahead. We’re planning to stay up all night.”

Qi Xu picked Xie Yang up, causing him to startle and cling to Qi Xu’s neck.

Even with his eyes closed, Xie Yang could feel the teasing gazes from all around.

Xie Yang sat in the passenger seat and had just fallen asleep when a “bang” woke him up—the sound of fireworks exploding in the sky.

Qi Xu looked at his sleepy face and softly said, “Happy New Year, baby.”

Xie Yang suddenly remembered that it was New Year’s Eve.

He turned to Qi Xu and smiled sweetly: “Happy New Year, brother.”

Fireworks lit up the sky all the way home, and Xie Yang watched through the window.

A new year had begun.

They would have a beautiful future together.

Qi Xu: “Still sleepy?”

Xie Yang watched the numbers rise in the elevator and shook his head: “Not sleepy anymore.”

With the lively atmosphere outside, he was now wide awake after being disturbed.

Qi Xu: “That’s good.”

Xie Yang: “What?”

Qi Xu picked him up again and, with a few strides, they were back home.

Xie Yang lay on the bed, still processing what had happened.

It wasn’t until Qi Xu took a small square item from the drawer and held it in his mouth that it clicked.

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