“Don’t like it?” he asked. “Wear it for now. When I return, we’ll choose one you like.”
“I like Seagull, white dial, white strap…” I said.
He paused, then laughed softly, gripping my hand. “Okay, I’ll buy a pair when I return.”
I nodded.
I remembered in childhood when Dad gave Mom a treasured watch, which I wasn’t allowed to touch. Still, I secretly tried it on when she wasn’t looking, examining it from every angle.
Ye Zhengchen’s hand rested on my right shoulder. I leaned my face on his shoulder.
There was no formal confession or relationship confirmation; we just naturally came together. I loved this indescribable tacit understanding.
“Don’t eat it if it doesn’t taste good.” I reached for it, but he blocked me reflexively. My hand hit the edge of the bowl, spilling noodles everywhere. The blood-red soup flowed wildly, splashing on him. “I’m sorry!” I flustered, wanting to grab a tissue but tripped on the table leg.
What was I doing? My mind was a mess.
I wanted to appear calm, but the more anxious I became, the more I fumbled.
Ye Zhengchen caught my hand. “Don’t do this.”
I took a deep breath and smiled. “I’m fine, I’m okay…”
His grip tightened, making me feel like my bones might break. I struggled to hold back tears.
“Go ahead and cry, don’t hold back,” he said.
“Who says I’m holding back?!” I snapped, breaking free slightly unsteady, steadying myself on the chair. “I’m really okay.”
He looked at me, his deep eyes piercing through everything. Under his gaze, I could no longer hold on, and my unwilling eyes became wet. I hurriedly lowered my head, tears falling on the table like fine rain.
“It’s late, I won’t disturb your rest.” I wanted to escape, but he grabbed my arm.
“Kiddo, everything will pass.”
“I know.” I nodded. “I know…”
But my heart hurts unbearably! What should I do?!
“Why don’t you hit me, or scold me? Scold me harshly! You can even curse my ancestors!”
I laughed and shook my head. “Senior brother, I should thank you. At least you didn’t sleep with me and then abandon me!”
