As soon as Zhan left the house, he began thinking about what food to buy for Dr. Kexing, and where he could even find decent food around. He decided to leave his area first, since he doubted he'd find any good eatery nearby. After getting out of the neighborhood, he found a large eatery, bought some food for Dr. Kexing, along with bottled water and a drink, then stepped out.
Just as Zhan walked out, his phone vibrated in his bag. He pulled it out and saw it was Yibo calling. He hesitated for a moment... if he answered now and told Yibo the truth, he'd probably insist he return home. Zhan knew him too well. So he let the call ring out without answering. Just as he was about to return the phone to his bag, the phone rang again. After taking a moment to think of what to say, he finally picked up and brought it to his ear.
"My Gege..." he said softly.
Yibo replied, "Where are you? I can hear traffic noise."
Zhan blinked, then said, "I'm on my way to Ji Li's place, Gege..."
"Ji Li?" Yibo asked. "You're just going now?"
Zhan pouted slightly. "Yeah... I'm just going now."
"Are you serious? You've been saying since morning you'dnt go, and you're only just leaving? It's almost five, and everything's packed out there."
Zhan replied in a pleading tone, "I won't be long, Gege..."
"Where are you exactly right now?" Yibo asked.
Zhan glanced around and quickly said, "I'm in a taxi. Not exactly sure where we are, but I know we're close. I just want to pick up my reading material and come right back. We have a test on Monday."
Yibo sighed. "You don't see the storm coming?"
Zhan looked up at the sky. "It's clearing up a bit now."
"Alright. Take care then," Yibo said.
"Aww, is that why you called me?" Zhan teased.
Yibo chuckled. "Actually, I wanted to ask if you could make me stir-fried spaghetti..."
Zhan smiled. "I figured you were calling about food. You never call unless you want me to cook. But don't worry, Gege, I'll make it for you when I get back."
"Okay. Just don't stay too long," Yibo said.
"Huh....I mean, of course," Zhan replied, catching himself before he mess things up.
After the call ended, Zhan stood there in thought, wondering where he and Dr. Kexing would even meet for the food handoff. He hadn't even asked. And he didn't know what medicine Dr. Kexing needed either. Just as he was about to call, the phone rang again. It was Dr. Kexing.
Zhan answered. "I just left the eatery. What kind of medicine do you need?"
Dr. Kexing listed the medications, then Zhan asked, "But how will i deliver both the food and the medicine to you? Dispatch rider?"
There was silence on the line. Zhan asked, "Hello?"
"You're giving my food to a dispatch rider?" Dr. Kexing asked quietly.
Zhan frowned. "Well, what do you suggest? Do you even have the strength to come out and pick it up yourself?"
"I don't," came the short reply.
"Then what should I do? I don't know your location. And I can't just guess..."
"I'll send you my address," Dr. Kexing interrupted.
Zhan's eyes widened. "Wait, you mean I have to come all the way there?"
Dr. Kexing said nothing. Zhan, now sounding worried, asked, "Am I really supposed to come to your place?"
Finally, Dr. Kexing responded, "Fine. Just give the medications to a dispatcher. Let them bring those. I won't eat the food."
Zhan was quiet for a few seconds, confused. What's wrong with a dispatcher bringing food? he wondered silently.
Then he said, "Alright. I'll get the drugs. Just send me your address. When I get to your street, come out and collect them yourself."
"Alright. Thanks," Dr. Kexing replied.
After ending the call, Zhan found the nearest pharmacy and bought the medications. Just as he left the store, the location address came through. He hailed a taxu, told the driver the destination, and got in. But as they drove, his anxiety increased. What if someone from his family or a relative sees me there? The thought alone made him deeply uncomfortable.
They arrived at the street around 5:35 PM. The taxi driver said, "We're here, sir."
Zhan looked around the quiet area. "Please, do me a favor. Wait a moment while I deliver this, then take me back. I don't think I'll find another ride here easily."
The driver nodded. "Okay, but be quick. Rain's starting to fall."
"Thanks."
Zhan quickly dialed Dr. Kexing's number. As soon as it rang, he picked up.
"I'm at the street. Come out and get it, please. The driver's waiting, and it's starting to rain."
Dr. Kexing replied, "Just pay him. I'll drop you off at home later."
Zhan's eyes widened. "I don't understand. You're unwell.... please, I'm going back with the motorcycle."
Dr. Kexing replied gently, "I'll take you back myself, Zhan. I don't want the rain to touch you."
He stepped out of the taxi, clearly uneasy making the call in front of the driver. A little anxious, he said, "Please come out and take your food and medicine so I can head home. I told my mom I was going to Ji Li's house....it took a lot to convince her to let me go out. I'm scared she'll find out the truth. Please just come out and take these things."
Dr. Kexing said softly, "Zhan..." His voice nearly broke. "I heard you."
"Tell the motorcycle guy to go," he continued. "Didn't I say I'd drop you off later? We're engaged, aren't we? For goodness' sake, I'm your fiancé not a stranger."
Zhan shook his head. "I'm sorry, I can't. Please, just come out and take your food so I can go home."
"Alright," Dr. Kexing said, ending the call.
Zhan returned to the motorcycle driver and apologized. He stood next to the vehicle, lightly soaked by the drizzle, when Dr. Kexing stepped out from a gate across the street. Zhan hadn't realized this was his house.... they had just randomly stopped here with the taxi.
As soon as Dr. Kexing came out, Zhan couldn't stop staring. He had never noticed how striking Kexing looked.... maybe he had been too shy to look at him properly at school. Under the dim light, Kexing looked radiant. His eyes were beautiful, his eyebrows thick and well-shaped, his lips perfectly formed. Within seconds, Zhan took in every detail, then quickly looked away, feeling his chest tighten.
Dr. Kexing walked over, and Zhan forced himself to speak. "Good evening, sir. Here's the food and medicine. I don't know if you'll…"
He trailed off, startled to see Dr. Kexing handing several bills to the motorcycle driver. Without a word, the man started to reverse the motorcycle. Zhan stood there, confused and speechless. He finally managed to say, "What's the meaning of this?"
Dr. Kexing gave him a look. "Why do you always argue with me? Can't you just do something I ask without a debate? Is this how you'll treat me after we're married?"
Zhan, nearly in tears, replied, "I told you I lied to my mom about where I was going. Why can't you consider that? I did all this because I was worried about you."
Dr. Kexing stayed quiet, watching him. Tears welled up in Zhan's eyes. Even through his facemask, Kexing could see them. In a low voice, he said, "I promise, I'll take you home in ten minutes. I really appreciate your care and concern. But the rain will soak you. Let's go inside so I can change, and then I'll drop you off."
Wiping his eyes, Zhan said, "I'll wait outside. I'll be right here."
Kexing frowned. "Don't argue with me. I said I'll take you home. Just do as I say."
He turned and walked back toward the gate. Zhan watched him, eyes stinging with fresh tears, which quickly soaked his mask. Thank goodness the street was quiet. After a moment, he followed him through the gate and sat on a small bench near the guard's room.
Dr. Kexing locked the gate behind them.
Zhan's heart pounded as he watched him. Dr. Kexing crouched before him and said softly, "Zhan, do you know you're the reason I've been like this? I couldn't sleep at all last night. I've never felt this kind of pressure before. I'm really disturbed."
He paused, eyes on Zhan. The words echoed in Zhan's mind. He's been in distress... because of me? But why? What did I do?
Zhan slowly lifted his mask and looked at him. "Did I offend you somehow? Please tell me.... did I do something wrong? Why are you this upset because of me?"
Dr. Kexing dropped his gaze and said nothing. That only made Zhan more anxious.
"Please," Zhan pleaded, his voice trembling. "I swear I don't know what I did wrong. How did I offend you?"
Fresh tears filled Zhan's eyes.
Taking a deep breath, Dr. Kexing finally found the courage to speak. "You did nothing wrong, Zhan. Nothing at all. In fact… you're the kindest, most thoughtful, most gentle person I've ever met. People like you are rare. I'm so proud you chose to be with me, despite everything we've been through. I cherish the day we met."
He reached for Zhan's hand. "But I want you to promise me something."
Zhan looked at him, puzzled.
"Promise me," Kexing said, gripping his hand tighter, "that no matter how hard things get....no matter the situation....you'll never leave me."
Zhan didn't respond at first. Feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of Kexing's gaze, he finally said, "But I've never said I'd leave you. Why are you saying this?"
"You don't understand, Zhan," Kexing replied. "I know you've never said you don't love me, but I don't know if something could change your mind...maybe pressure, maybe something else. But I want you to know, as far as I'm concerned, I will never walk away from you. And you'll never have a reason to walk away from me either. No matter what."
Zhan lowered his gaze. "I have no intention of leaving you. I've never even thought of such a thing. How could I, especially now that we're just days away from our wedding? What have you done that would make me want to?"
Kexing gave a faint, pained smile. In a quieter voice, he said, "You won't understand now, Zhan. But promise me this....before our wedding or after...whatever I ask of you, anything related to our life together, you'll trust me and agree without argument."
Zhan looked at him and asked, "Like what exactly?"
"Anything that concerns us," Kexing replied. "Promise me you'll trust my plans."
Zhan exhaled deeply. "I promise. I'll be obedient.... as long as it doesn't go against my dignity or principles."
Dr. Kexing was still watching him. Zhan lowered his head, and Dr. Kexing said softly, "Then it's a promise.... no matter how hard things get, no matter how painful, we'll stand by each other from this very moment until forever."
Zhan gave a small smile and replied, "Alright."
Dr. Kexing said, "I love you, Zhan. And nothing can ever change that."
Zhan buried his face into his knees and whispered, "Same with me."
Dr. Kexing continued, "There's no need for me to take you to meet Mom again... after the wedding, she'll know you."
Zhan looked up at him but said nothing. Dr. Kexing added, "Give me just ten minutes. I'll be back to take you home. I know you wouldn't want to go into the sitting room, and I get it....you have trust issues. Just wait for me in the parking lot so you don't get too wet."
With that, he stood up and headed into the house. Zhan watched him go. He knew he had always loved Dr. Kexing, but today that feeling had deepened. He couldn't take his eyes off him until he disappeared into the house. Despite the light drizzle, Zhan didn't move from where he sat.
As promised, ten minutes later, Dr. Kexing returned, car keys in hand.
Zhan stood quickly, worry flickering in his eyes. He walked over and said, "Sir, you didn't eat anything."
Dr. Kexing replied, "I'll eat later. I don't want it to get to six and have you still not home."
Zhan said nothing, just watched him. Dr. Kexing opened the car door for him, gesturing for him to get in. Zhan got inside, and Dr. Kexing locked the door. Only after opening the gate did he return to the car and drove them out of the compound. Zhan simply watched him silently, all the way until they left the neighborhood.
Zhan didn't allow Dr. Kexing to drop him right in front of his house. Dr. Kexing didn't push either. Just as Zhan was about to get out, he suddenly turned back, eyes wide.
"I told Mama that I was picking up a handout from Ji Li... I can't go in without it…"
Before he could finish, Dr. Kexing reached into the back seat, retrieved a material, and handed it to him. Zhan sighed with relief.
"Thank you," he said softly.
"You're welcome."
Zhan stepped out of the car. "Good night, sir. Take care."
Dr. Kexing smiled. "Good night."
Zhan waited until the car reversed and pulled away before walking toward the gate. But his heart sank when he saw Hai Kuan sitting at the gate. He must have seen him getting out of Dr. Kexing's car, judging by the way he was staring at him.
"Who dropped you off?" Hai Kuan asked sharply.
Zhan turned to look back....the car was already gone. He stayed silent.
Hai Kuan stood up. "You'll tell me whose car that was when I come back."
He walked off into the house.
Zhan pouted, following after him. "Kuan-ge, I went to Ji Li's. He called and said he was nearby, so he dropped me off."
Hai Kuan turned to look at him. Zhan quickly looked away.
"When did you start lying, Zhan?"
"Kuan-ge, I'm not lying."
"Alright. I'll call Ji Li and ask."
Zhan wasn't bothered...he knew Hai Kuan didn't have Ji Li's number.
He stood by the outdoor tap while Zhan went inside. Zhan entered the house and first went to see Lan Yi to tell her he was back.
Aunty Marquis said, "That was quick."
Lan Yi asked, "Was that Yibo who brought you back?"
Zhan replied, "No, I didn't say he picked me up."
Lan Yi shrugged.
Zhan left the room.
Aunty Marquis commented, "What about the skincare prep? It usually starts two months before the wedding."
Lan Yi replied, "I've never done it myself, but now that you're here, you can handle it."
Aunty Marquis nodded. "He also mentioned tests. I think he shouldn't be going out anymore."
Lan Yi sighed. "They're in the final stage now. I think final exams start in about six weeks."
Aunty Marquis said, "Wishing them luck. He's still with Shu, right?"
Lan Yi nodded. "Yes."
Aunty Marquis muttered, "She still hasn't come to greet me."
Lan Yi said, "She will."
✨✨✨
The next day, Sunday, Zhan was in his room all day studying for the test. He didn't want to give his lecturers any reason to target him. Around 4 p.m., Aunty Marquis came in.
"Zhan, come downstairs. Mother wants to see you."
Zhan got up and followed her to the sitting room. Granny Fang Yu was sitting on a carpet, surrounded by wedding gifts being unpacked. She was beaming with joy, practically overwhelmed with happiness.
Zhan sat down beside her. "Welcome, Granny."
Granny pulled him into a hug. "You're so lucky, Zhan. May everything go well. May we witness more weddings like this. May your husband remain yours forever."
It was then that Zhan noticed Shu sitting on a chair, one leg over the other like a rebellious teenager, staring at the gifts without expression. There was bitterness in her eyes....clear envy.
Zhan said, "Good afternoon, Shu Jie."
Shu didn't even glance at him, pretending she hadn't heard.
Granny Fang Yu snapped, "Shu! The groom is greeting you."
Only then did Shu give a brief look. "Oh. Hello."
Suddenly the gatekeeper called out a greeting at the edge of the sitting room. Everyone turned to look. It was unusual.... he never came inside. He was holding an old-fashioned trunk, (one clearly from Nainai's youth. 😉😆) He seemed awkward.
"She insisted I bring this in myself," he mumbled. "Said the guest is special."
Then came Ms. Ai's voice. "Isn't he this the house worker? How dare you delay bringing my things inside? Don't you know where I'm coming from? Is this how you people behave in this city?"
Lan Yi turned pale and looked at Aunty Marquis in shock.
Granny Fang Yu smiled. "That voice sounds like Ai's."
Ms. Ai walked in. "Of course it's me, sister. I've been on the road since dawn. Got into a broken-down car... bad omen, I tell you. The thing kept stalling, making noise and smoking. The driver was a wreck too. But anyway, we made it to Beijing in one piece."
Shu jumped up and hugged Ms. Ai. "Welcome, Grandaunt!"
Ms Ai smiled. "Thank you, Shu. Now, where's Yibo? I came for his wedding!"
Granny Fang Yu gestured at Zhan. "It's Zhan's wedding too....two grooms in one house!"
Ms. Ai looked confused. "Who's Zhan now?"
Zhan smiled politely. "Welcome, Granny Ai."
Lan Yi forced a smile and stood. "You must be tired, Aunt Ai. Welcome…"
She took her handbag and turned to Aunty Marquis. "Marquis, go set up the guest room for her and get the water heater on…"
Ms. Ai interrupted. "No, I want the room upstairs."
Lan Yi nodded. "Alright then, come with me."
Ms. Ai glanced at Granny Fang Yu. "Let me freshen up and I'll be back for a proper chat Jie."
She followed Lan Yi, but her limp made it hard to climb.
Aunty Marquis said, "Maybe the downstairs room would be easier for you, Aunt Ai."
Ms. Ai snapped, "Mind your business."
She stubbornly started climbing. It took her nearly fifteen minutes to get upstairs, resting at each step.
Zhanxianyibo💚❤️💛