He suddenly grabbed my hand, the ring pressing painfully against my palm. I didn’t refuse, but he let go. “Don’t worry, I’ll find a way about your fiancé’s matter.” “Thank you!”
Back in the hotel room, I lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling. Did he and Yu Yin really have nothing more than work?
I remembered that winter after returning from Japan when I accidentally saw a photo Qin Xue posted online, a group photo of friends in the apartment that made me feel emotional.
Uncle and Aunt Feng were still so loving, both having gained weight, like a pair of lucky dolls. Ling had a man by her side, smiling as red leaves fell, while Qin Xue was with a handsome boyfriend, somewhat resembling Ye Zhengchen. I found myself lost in thought.
Clicking to the next photo, I was struck by Ye Zhengchen. My heart ached, but it dulled upon seeing Yu Yin beside him. I continued clicking through the photos until I froze at one—a beautiful picture at Yu Yin’s home, warm and filled with flowers. Colorful candles burned atop a strawberry cake while everyone sang happy birthday, and Ye Zhengchen leaned down, lips near Yu Yin’s ear. She held a bunch of vibrant roses, and Ye Zhengchen wore a mischievous smile.
I stared at the photo, my eyes dry and painful from forgetting to blink. Qin Xue was online, so I messaged her: [How have you been?]
[Long time no see!] [Just saw the photos in your space; your boyfriend is handsome!] [Not bad, from medical school.]
My hand hesitated on the keyboard. Only after sending my message did I realize I had written: [How is Ye Zhengchen?] It was too late to recall. She replied that not long after I left, Ye Zhengchen moved out to live with a woman named Yu Yin, a beautiful and elegant woman from a noble background. It seemed Ye Zhengchen had truly fallen in love this time.
She told me they often pair up on campus, in supermarkets, or in libraries. I heard they are already married.
Looking at the computer screen, I felt drained, wanting to cry but not a single tear fell. That night, I had a terrible dream of returning to my apartment in Japan, leaning against the wall…
