“Lin Ge, you should have told me earlier; I could have agreed. Lin Yao is your sister, and I could have helped, but she shouldn’t have acted like that. What are family members? They are the last refuge in this world, a haven from the complexities of human nature and the weariness of life. In front of family, there’s no need for pretense or caution. I can’t imagine guarding against family like guarding against thieves.”
“Yes, what is family? It’s an inescapable, unchangeable bond of blood and flesh, a lifelong connection. Many things in this world can be chosen, but not family; you can only accept them.” Lin Ge’s voice was weary and low, laced with deep pain and helplessness. “I’ve always tried my best, but sometimes, effort doesn’t bring wealth. I’m not someone who values money highly, but reality forces me to consider it. I can’t give you the life I want to, not even a place to call home, and the sadness in my heart, you wouldn’t know. When my aunt got sick, I wanted to take on everything alone, but I didn’t have the ability. Often, this sense of inadequacy and helplessness suffocates me.”
Xu Ke, with tears in her eyes, asked, “Do I burden you so much?”
“It’s not you, Xiao Ke. It’s many things that make me feel tired.”
“I feel tired too.” This confession came out suddenly, and Xu Ke felt a significant relief as if a weight had been lifted off her chest after two years of suppression. The two gazed at each other, their eyes filled with pain and helplessness.
“Xiao Ke, I will pay you back the money.” Xu Ke shed tears, “Lin Ge, it’s not about the money; it’s just that I’m very tired, and I don’t want to face it anymore.”
“Xiao Ke, rest now.” Lin Ge stood up slowly and walked out of the room.
“Lin Ge, break up with her.” Li Pingyu’s voice came from outside the door. “Everything else can be forgiven, but not matters of character. What’s going on between her and that man? How can you just ignore it? Are you even a man?”
