I realized I hadn’t seen Yin Zhongtian for a while. Just yesterday, I learned that he was not implicated in the case and had provided crucial evidence for the investigation. The municipal government allowed him to return to work, but he wanted to leave Nanzhou for better opportunities.
Ye Zhengchen promised to make me satisfied, and he followed through, although I still lacked the courage to explain everything to my father.
On the weekend, I took my father for a walk in the park. His health had recovered well after more than a week of rest.
“Xiao Bing, I haven’t seen Zhongtian these past few days…”
“What’s he been up to?”
“He’s back at the municipal government. After being suspended, he has a lot of work to do.”
“He should be off today. Why don’t you invite him over for dinner?”
“Dad…” Some things had to be said sooner or later, and he seemed to be in a good mood today. “Zhongtian and I…”
Seeing my hesitation, my father quickly understood. “Did you two have a fight?”
Tentatively, I asked, “If we break up, could you accept that?”
“Aiya, it’s normal for young people to argue. Don’t talk about breaking up so easily. After everything that’s happened, Zhongtian might be in a bad mood. You need to understand…”
We walked along the cobblestone path around the artificial lake. I wanted to confess several times, but each time I saw his serious expression, I held back.
On weekends, the park was full of couples, some embracing on benches, others strolling on the paths. But the couple approaching us made me doubt my eyes. I confirmed it was indeed Yin Zhongtian with a woman in her twenties.
After a moment of surprise, I quickly held my father’s arm. “Dad, let’s go this way.”
“This way is closer to home…” My father pointed ahead, but his face suddenly turned ashen. I found his heart medication and pushed it into his mouth.
Just as my father swallowed the pill, Yin Zhongtian approached. He didn’t avoid us but greeted us naturally. “Uncle, Xiao Bing…”
