“What are you doing?!”
Xie Heng quickly ran over, his brows tightly furrowed as he scrutinized Zhou Qi with confusion and displeasure.
From a distance, he had already seen Zhou Qi talking to Lu Xi, though he had no idea what was said. If he didn’t know Zhou Qi from playing basketball together, he would’ve grabbed Zhou Qi by the collar and thrown a punch.
Seriously, this was driving him crazy.
Why was everyone always eyeing his Ms. Lu?
Zhou Qi’s lips trembled, his usually charming face paling a few shades, and it was hard to tell whether it was from panic or fear. He no longer dared to glance at Lu Xi and nervously explained, “No, I was just… saying hello to Uncle and Aunt.”
After finishing, he turned and walked away without looking back, completely forgetting his basketball.
Xie Heng shot him an annoyed glare before picking up the ball and tossing it at him.
At least the guy knew his place.
But from now on, Xie Heng absolutely wasn’t playing basketball with Zhou Qi anymore. Anyone who dared to covet Lu Xi, trying to be his stepdad, he was already being merciful by not beating them up.
Irritated, Xie Heng ran a hand through his hair and glared at Lu Xi unhappily.
Seriously, she was too attractive. How could she just show up at school and instantly have guys approaching her?
…Wait a minute.
Xie Heng’s expression stiffened as he realized his thoughts had gone astray.
This wasn’t her fault. Just like Xu Jiaming had said, this had nothing to do with her. His way of thinking was completely wrong, it wasn’t fair to blame her for being too attractive. If anyone was at fault, it was his classmates, acting like a bunch of mutts who couldn’t walk straight after spotting a beauty.
And his Dad.
Why wasn’t his Dad sticking by her side properly, leaving room for others to swoop in?
Immediately, Xie Heng felt justified. Lifting his chin, he righteously questioned Xie Yizhao, “Dad, seriously, why aren’t you keeping a closer eye on her? The school’s huge, full of people, what if something happens?”
Lu Xi : ?
—Rebellious son, are you serious?
She was a grown woman. Did he really think she needed a chaperone to stop her from being kidnapped?
Xie Yizhao’s hand tightened slightly around Lu Xi’s waist. He frowned thoughtfully for a moment but didn’t refute Xie Heng. Instead, he calmly countered, “And you? As her son, you lied just to play basketball. Why weren’t you following her and protecting her?”
Xie Heng : “…”
Good question.
Right to the heart of the issue.
But admitting defeat was impossible. Xie Heng pouted and muttered, “Well, I didn’t want to be a third wheel and ruin your sweet little date.”
Xie Yizhao’s lips curled slightly, his expression colder than the autumn wind. His tone was equally frosty, “If you don’t want to be a third wheel, you might as well move out sooner.”
Xie Heng’s eyes widened in disbelief.
…He fell silent.
Fine. The old man still had the upper hand. He couldn’t outmatch his Dad yet.
Lu Xi sighed helplessly, shooting Xie Yizhao a playful glare before turning to Xie Heng, who was now sulking.
These two were too much.
All this fuss just because someone had tried to chat her up? Did they think she was some helpless girl who needed a guardian at all times?
Now completely subdued, Xie Heng gave up on playing basketball and followed behind Xie Yizhao and Lu Xi as they strolled around campus. Even when he got bored, he just played on his phone, trying to minimize his presence.
After today, he had a newfound appreciation for how tough his Dad had it.
With all the temptations around Lu Xi every day, no wonder the old man had a sense of urgency.
For now, he’d just let them have their little date while he quietly scrolled through his phone in the background.
Lu Xi, oblivious to her son’s inner turmoil, walked around until 11:30 AM, when she started feeling hungry. She turned to Xie Heng, “Take us somewhere to eat off-campus.”
“The food near school is cheap,” Xie Heng said seriously. “You might not be used to it.”
Lu Xi was baffled. Did she really look that delicate? Did he think she dined on gourmet meals every day?
She waved it off casually. “It’s fine. Just take us wherever you usually eat.”
Xie Heng paused.
Then he lowered his head, pressing his lips together in a small smile.
Hearing her say that made him oddly happy.
So, he took them to the west gate, where the famous Mingli Food Street was located. It was packed with street vendors selling affordable, generously portioned, and delicious food—a favorite among Mingli students.
Lu Xi sat inside a clay pot rice shop, reportedly Xie Heng’s favorite. He enthusiastically recommended the roast goose, calling it top-tier, even comparable to Michelin-starred dishes.
With such high praise, of course, she had to try it.
Lu Xi had always loved street food. Even though it was cheap, it had an irreplaceable warmth and authenticity. Back in her elite private school days, even the rich kids loved sneaking off to hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Along with the clay pot rice, Lu Xi ordered half a roast goose for the three of them to share.
Just as they were about to dig in, Xie Heng suddenly put down his chopsticks and rushed off. Less than ten minutes later, he returned with a bag of Shengjianbao1 and three cups of mung bean soup.
He looked at Lu Xi and Xie Yizhao. “Try it, this is one of the best things here. I love it.”
Lu Xi’s eyes lit up.
She had tried the Shengjianbao before, but the mung bean soup was new. Taking a sip through the straw, the cool, sweet flavor with its rich mung bean aroma instantly refreshed her. She turned to Xie Yizhao in delight. “It’s really good! You should try it.”
Xie Yizhao smiled faintly and, following her suggestion, took a sip.
He remained composed as usual, not showing any exaggerated reaction, but after a moment, he glanced at Xie Heng and quietly said, “It’s quite good. Thank you.”
It was the first time in his life his son had ever bought him a drink.
The price didn’t matter. He was simply surprised that Xie Heng had actually thought of including his portion.
Xie Heng awkwardly tugged at the corner of his mouth, a flicker of embarrassment flashing through his eyes.
Seriously, what was there to thank him for? It was just a cheap drink…
However, this seemed to be the first time Old Xie had ever thanked him.
A rare moment.
As mealtime approached, the restaurant grew busier.
Today was the school anniversary celebration, and many parents had come, brought in by their children. Some recognized Xie Yizhao, and one of them was even a shareholder of Xie’s company. Upon seeing Xie Yichao, he eagerly came over to exchange pleasantries.
Naturally, Lu Xi couldn’t be left out.
Back then, few people had high hopes for her. So young, becoming a stepmother—it might have looked glamorous, but who knew how well she was actually living? A shrewd businessman like Xie Yizhao, the richer he was, the deeper his thoughts ran. He wouldn’t just let a young girl take advantage of him. And with a rebellious high schooler at home, anyone stepping into that role would have a tough time.
Yet, against all odds, she managed to win over both father and son. Look at them now, sitting at the same table, sharing food. A busy man like Xie Yizhao, who never even had time to attend parent-teacher meetings, was now strolling around campus with his wife and son, snapping photos of his wife all over school.
Some of the mothers watching felt envious, but they couldn’t help resenting their own husbands a little.
They were always claiming to be too busy for dates, too busy to spend time together, but how busy could they really be? Busier than President Xie?
As for Xie Heng, there was no need to even mention it. His face was all smiles when talking to Lu Xi, warmer than if she were his biological mother. A perfect, devoted son.
Such high-level skills.
“President Xie, it’s rare to see you at school,” the shareholder parent greeted him.
Xie Yizhao shook his hand and smiled. “My wife is participating in the school uniform design competition this afternoon. If you’re free, drop by and cast a vote for her.”
The other man was briefly stunned before quickly agreeing, “Of course! No problem at all. Mrs. Xie is truly talented…”
Lu Xi blinked, forcing a polite smile.
Then she helplessly glanced at Xie Yizhao but couldn’t hold back a laugh.
Seeing this, the onlookers grew even more envious.
—President Xie, personally canvassing votes for his wife? How did she manage this?
They silently decided to invite Lu Xi out for tea sometime. They had to discuss how to properly train their husbands. This was simply too impressive.
At this moment, Lu Xi had no idea she was already becoming an icon in the wives’ circle. If she ever wrote a book, it would surely be a bestseller.
Right now, her mind was entirely focused on the upcoming competition.
Saying she wasn’t nervous at all would be a lie.
People always say, ‘The process is more important than the result.’ She had heard this phrase countless times growing up, meant as a form of comfort. But this was the first time she realized, she was actually quite competitive.
She had put in a lot of effort for this competition. Even though it was just a school event, winning would help boost her studio’s reputation.
With so many parents present, most of them wealthy and influential, they could all become potential clients in the future.
Still, she wasn’t overly anxious. She believed in doing her best and leaving the rest to fate. After all, she had confidence in her design.
Seeing Xie Yizhao helping Lu Xi campaign for votes, Xie Heng suddenly felt a little off-balance.
He wanted to do something too.
During lunch, he casually pulled out his phone, opened the class group chat, and hesitated. Should he post an ad for Ms. Lu?
But the moment he opened the chat, he froze.
Half an hour ago, the class monitor had already sent a message:
[Our classmate Xie Heng’s Mom is participating in the school uniform design competition! Xie Heng, Xu Jiaming, Huang Ying, Zhou Xixi, and Song Siyang are also competing. If you’re free this afternoon, head to the auditorium to watch the fashion show and vote for Xie Heng’s Mom! Supporting classmates is everyone’s responsibility~]
Many classmates had replied with +1, saying they’d attend if they could and vote regardless.
Xie Heng held his phone, staring at the screen for a long time, his eyes flickering.
He could hardly believe it.
Was his popularity really this good now? Before he could even say a word, his classmates were already helping him campaign. And not just close friends, people he barely even spoke to had stepped up.
This feeling… it was actually pretty nice.
And all of this was because of her.
Fingers moving swiftly, Xie Heng typed out a message:
[Thanks. No need for extra words, milk tea for everyone tomorrow.]
After sending it, he smirked and waved his phone at Lu Xi. “I got you some votes too. My whole class is voting for you.”
Lu Xi blinked, then grinned. “Well, thank you, Xiao Heng.”
Xie Heng puffed up proudly. “Of course. I’m very useful, you know.”
Alright then.
Seeing him so at ease, Lu Xi felt reassured. At least now he seemed relaxed, he wouldn’t be too nervous on stage later.
Around one o’clock, she took both father and son to the auditorium.
Backstage, they met Xu Jiaming and the others, along with a female teacher Lu Xi had arranged earlier, who wouldd be one of her models.
Other parents’ hired models were arriving too. From what Lu Xi observed, most had hired professionals, who were clearly more experienced than her team.
But that only made her more confident.
Her models might not be professionals, but they were all full of youthful energy!
School uniforms were meant for students, and they looked best on students. She believed any discerning eye would see the difference.
Plus, since her models were from the school, some audience members would recognize them. Even if they didn’t vote for the outfits, they might vote just for the people wearing them.
Before the official start, Lu Xi helped everyone check their outfits to make sure there were no issues. After confirming everything was fine, she offered a few words of encouragement, telling them not to be nervous.
The kids all seemed fine and obediently nodded.
After a brief pep talk, Lu Xi stepped out from the backstage area and returned to her seat in the audience.
She was in the front row, positioned right at the end of the runway, with Xie Yizhao sitting beside her.
As soon as she sat down, the man instinctively took her hand. He froze slightly, frowned, and asked, “Why are your hands so cold? Are you cold?”
Lu Xi pulled a pitiful face and softly whined, “No, I’m just nervous… *sob sob*…”
Xie Yizhao looked at her, then suddenly smiled, unable to hold back his amusement. He tightened his grip on her hand and said in a low voice, “If you’re nervous, just hold onto me. If that’s not enough, you can pinch me too.”
“…How would that help?” Lu Xi puffed up her cheeks. “How about this, you say something to distract me.”
“Alright.”
Xie Yizhao thought for a moment, then chuckled and said, “Actually, I lied to you this morning. I bought you a gift.”
Lu Xi was stunned.
“Really? What is it?” Her interest was immediately piqued, and all she could think about was seeing the gift right away. She completely forgot where she was and what she was supposed to be doing.
What refined girl could possibly resist receiving a gift?
Xie Yizhao tilted his head and smiled. His fingers slowly brushed against her fingertips as he leaned in close to her ear and whispered, “Take a guess.”
Lu Xi : “…”
She bit her lip and looked at Xie Yizhao, suddenly finding him incredibly annoying.
But was it effective? Of course! Now, her mind was completely occupied with guessing the gift. What was nervousness? She had no idea anymore!
Even when the fashion show officially began, Lu Xi was still caught up in guessing the gift.
The order of appearances was determined by a random draw, and Xie Heng’s group was scheduled toward the end. By the time they went on stage, half an hour had passed.
As Xie Heng and his group stepped out in the school uniforms she had designed, the atmosphere in the audience immediately became lively.
Lu Xi heard several people calling out Xie Heng and Xu Jiaming’s names, almost like a fan meeting. She couldn’t help but exchange a smile with Xie Yizhao.
After the fashion show, it was time for voting.
The audience could vote via their phones, and those watching remotely could also cast their votes through the live stream. The host told everyone to wait a few minutes for the results.
By now, Lu Xi was no longer nervous at all. Everything was already decided, and besides, even if she lost, she still had a gift to receive. Just thinking about it made her happy.
Feeling completely relaxed, she even started discussing with Xie Yichao where to take the kids for a celebration meal after the event.
Just then, Xie Yizhao’s gaze suddenly froze as he looked toward the stage.
Lu Xi followed his line of sight.
Huh?
Why was Xie Heng coming out again? And… was he holding a bouquet of flowers?
This wasn’t a concert, why was there an encore?
Xie Heng, maintaining his usual cold expression, walked casually down the runway. When he reached the very end, he stopped and looked directly at Lu Xi before suddenly leaping off the stage.
He landed right beside her.
Initially standing upright to hand over the flowers, he quickly realized that making her look up at him like this would strain her neck. Without thinking, he immediately crouched down.
“So, um… congratulations on winning first place. And also… thank you for designing the school uniform for me. I really like it, I’ll wear it to school every day from now on.”
Lu Xi looked at the fluffy blue-haired head in front of her : ?
Crouching like this, he looked so well-behaved… like a little puppy?
- This food appeared once before, during the Ruan Tiantian farce episode, but I forgot to put a footnote. Shengjianbao is a pan-fried pork bun, it looks like this :
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