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Realizing his verbal blunder, Ying Jing felt a delayed sense of regret. Oh no, he had offended her.
Secretary Zhou quickly regained composure and smoothly steered the conversation away. He asked Ying Jing, “Where are you headed?”
Ying Jing quickly replied, “No need to drop us off, just let us out up ahead.” After speaking, he stole another glance at Chu Ning.
The cramped space forced her to sit slightly slouched against the car door. Beneath her blazer, the white fleece sweater had a V-neck that revealed just enough to spark imagination. As the car sped along, neon lights from outside cast an alternating glow on her face—bright, then dim.
Secretary Zhou politely inquired, “Which university do you attend?”
“Hangda,” Ying Jing answered.
“Perfect, it’s on the way.”
Ah, such kind people.
Ying Jing remained silent, his guilt deepening.
Twenty minutes later, they arrived. Qi Yu and Gu Jinjin got out first, while Ying Jing shifted in his seat and turned back to thank Chu Ning. “Thank you so much for tonight.”
Secretary Zhou smiled but said nothing as they politely parted ways.
After closing the car door, Ying Jing walked away, glancing back multiple times. In the dark night, his white hoodie stood out vividly.
As the car accelerated, his figure shrank into a dot, disappearing entirely within seconds.
Chu Ning glanced at the university gate—a prestigious school.
Only then did Secretary Zhou ask, “Shall I take you back to Sihui Bridge?” Chu Ning’s apartment was located there.
“No, head towards Yuyuantan instead.”
Chen Yue had called her five or six times since yesterday afternoon, repeatedly urging her to make time to return home.
The car turned around at an intersection and arrived at the Zhao family residence by the northern shore of Yuyuantan half an hour later. After Secretary Zhou left, Chu Ning stayed outside for a while, finishing a cigarette before entering the house.
The housekeeper opened the door. “Ning’er, you’re back? Oh, be careful.”
Hearing the commotion, Chen Yue hurried over from the living room, draped in a shawl with one corner trailing on the floor. Before she even approached, her brows furrowed. “You’ve been smoking?”
Chu Ning gently brushed aside the housekeeper’s hand and thanked her softly.
Chen Yue scolded, “After smoking, you should air out the smell before coming in. If your father were home and smelled it, he’d be upset again. And especially don’t smoke in front of the in-laws.”
Chu Ning limped over to the sofa and sat down without a word.
Chen Yue sat across from her, adjusting her shawl as she reprimanded rapidly, like pouring beans from a jar. “Look at you, usually wearing high heels without issue, but now you’ve broken your leg. The Feng family is very invested in the engagement banquet, and this accident has postponed it again.” Becoming increasingly frustrated, Chen Yue leaned forward anxiously. “Hurry up and recover, do you hear me?”
Chu Ning, who had been silent since entering, finally raised her eyes. “Are you afraid the Fengs will change their minds? That Feng Zi Yang won’t want me anymore?”
Chen Yue frowned with displeasure.
“They can still divorce after marriage if they want to back out.”
“You ungrateful child!” Chen Yue flared up. “You don’t appreciate anything.”
But Chu Ning suddenly laughed, leaning back comfortably. “I’m parched. I need water.”
Chen Yue grumbled a few more complaints but still got up unhappily.
“You never listen to me. You’re driving me crazy—you’re such a thankless little brat.”
Chu Ning tilted her neck and protested. “When have I ever offended you?”
Chen Yue slammed the glass onto the table. “Someone told me that you’re always busy with work and barely see Zi Yang once a month. I don’t know what you’re thinking. Plus, I’ve reminded you countless times to be more polite to your older brother.”
That last sentence ignited Chu Ning’s impatience. She grabbed her crutches and stood up. “If you want to curry favor with him, go yourself. As far as I’m concerned, Zhao Mingchuan doesn’t deserve a shred of politeness from me.”
The atmosphere instantly ignited.
Chen Yue abandoned her usual elegance and raised her voice. “You need to understand something. Although we’re part of this family, the Zhao family is vast and powerful. All these years, I’ve only seen the tip of the iceberg. No matter how capable you are, you’re still just a woman. Who truly runs this household? It’s him—Zhao Mingchuan!”
Her words struck a nerve with Chu Ning, who became furious. “What about being a woman? Is this family incapable of accommodating women?”
“You’re deliberately twisting my meaning.”
Chu Ning, having no patience for nagging, grabbed her crutches.
Chen Yue panicked, softening her tone. “Hey, where are you going? Aren’t you drinking water?”
Chu Ning hobbled toward the door. “Not thirsty anymore. I’m full.”
She closed the door behind her, shutting out Chen Yue’s incessant chatter.
Finally, silence.
Chu Ning pressed the elevator button and watched the numbers climb as she reflected on the draining visit to the Zhao household. Just then, the elevator doors slid open, revealing a disheveled man inside. Their eyes met, colliding like sparks.
Chu Ning felt a jolt in her heart. Had she skipped lighting incense today? Nothing but trouble all day.
Zhao Mingchuan wore a three-piece suit, the top button of his collar undone, exuding a faint scent of alcohol. After dining with Planning Bureau officials, he had consumed too much liquor, appearing both drunk and brooding, radiating a dangerous charm.
Out of instinct, Chu Ning took a wide step to the right, as if trying to distance herself from him in disgust.
Zhao Mingchuan immediately flared up. “What’s with that look?”
Chu Ning responded coldly, “I’m making way for Master Zhao.”
Zhao Mingchuan narrowed his eyes, his gaze sharp and upward-slanting, staring at her intently.
Chu Ning met his gaze without fear.
After several tense seconds, Zhao Mingchuan suddenly smirked, his tone mocking. “Gotten bolder, haven’t you?” His eyes drifted to her plastered leg.
Chu Ning grew wary.
But Zhao Mingchuan didn’t say another word. The two brushed past each other, his tall back spelling out two big words—arrogance.
Having endured two bouts of frustration, Chu Ning felt like a smoldering gourd, suffocated.
On her way back home, she received a call from Feng Zi Yang.
“Ning, where are you?”
Music played in the background—he was likely enjoying himself somewhere. Chu Ning replied curtly, “Speak if you have something to say.”
Feng Zi Yang teased, “Tsk, so cold.”
“I’m hanging up.”
“Wait, wait! I’m calling because I’m afraid you’ll forget amidst your busyness. Remember the day after tomorrow.”
“What for?”
“To watch the match!” Feng Zi Yang exclaimed dramatically.
Chu Ning had completely forgotten.
Speaking of Feng Zi Yang, he was an anomaly among second-generation rich kids. Strictly speaking, he wasn’t an ambitious businessman, nor did he carry the typical spoiled demeanor of Beijing’s elite sons. Chu Ning’s social circle was sharply divided—either they shared similar ideals and could collaborate, or they maintained mutually beneficial acquaintanceships.
Initially, she thought Feng Zi Yang belonged to the latter category, but over time, he came to embody the former. Whether personally or professionally, Chu Ning tolerated him a bit more than others.
Feng Zi Yang continued to grumble on the phone.
Chu Ning interrupted, “Fine, I’ll accompany you.”
The other end fell silent.
Suddenly feeling mischievous and slightly irritated, she half-joked, “Help me get rid of Zhao Mingchuan.”
Feng Zi Yang coughed twice in shock. “No need to accompany me anymore. Goodbye.” He hung up immediately.
Chu Ning was speechless. What kind of person was this?
Thursday, two days later, Chu Ning still set aside her afternoon for Feng Zi Yang. Feng Zi Yang was an amateur military enthusiast, and Chu Ning had seen his collection—various odd airplane and tank models that filled two entire rooms.
On the way, Chu Ning asked, “You’re really casual. Are you really interested in such unofficial competitions?”
Feng Zi Yang rested his fingers on the steering wheel, “Heroes are not judged by their origins. Besides, young students’ creativity has less rigidity and more inspiration.”
Chu Ning tilted her head, “Students?”
Feng Zi Yang smiled and nodded toward the front, “We’re here.”
The square-shaped school gate greeted them first, with an eight-character motto prominently displayed:
“Stillness cultivates the body; frugality nurtures virtue.”
Seeing the school name, Chu Ning suddenly recalled the white-clad boy from the other day. The memory rippled faintly but quickly faded.
Every golden autumn, C Hang University held an internal science and technology competition, which had become a cultural hallmark. Aerospace engineering and electronic information engineering were the university’s star programs, and over the years, these two departments had been fiercely competing for top honors.
By 2 PM, the waiting area was already bustling with excitement.
“What are you looking at?” Qi Yu made final adjustments to the remote sensor and patted Ying Jing’s shoulder. “The route is set without issues, but be careful to control the flight speed when turning tight corners.”
Ying Jing wore the standard white competition uniform, reminiscent of high school uniforms. Except for his growing frame, his refined features remained unchanged. He rolled up his sleeves halfway, one hand resting on his waist while pointing to the spectator seats with the other. “Are the school leaders sitting there?”
“Yes.”
“And over there?”
“The left side is for our school members, and the right side is for outside guests.” Qi Yu leaned closer, mischievously pointing out, “Zhang Huaiyu is seated third from the left. Aim your petals towards her.”
The auditorium was nearly full, a sea of heads. When Feng Zi Yang and Chu Ning entered, they stood out noticeably. Ying Jing glanced over and saw her, his mouth unconsciously forming a small circle. “Wow.”
Qi Yu understood and whispered knowingly, “I equipped you with rose petals.”
“I’m not throwing them there,” Ying Jing said dismissively, smirking as he turned around.
Qi Yu craned his neck, “Then where are you aiming? Hey, I’m telling you, don’t change the route unless you want it to crash.”
“Do you really think we’re going to win?” Ying Jing shrugged nonchalantly. “Relax, let’s just have fun.”
This competition at Hangda had some recognition within the industry. To boost its reputation, the school naturally favored more influential majors. Everyone knew this, and over time, it became an unspoken rule.
Qi Yu had nothing to say but still felt reluctant. “If it’s just for fun, why did you spend so many sleepless nights preparing?”
Ying Jing left behind an indifferent back, “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.”
They were studying aerospace engine design, and they were sixth in the lineup. The first five teams presented their projects, with their faculty advisors directing from below.
It was like a simulated space world.
Feng Zi Yang watched with great interest. “This simulation chamber is well-built. Look, even the water ecosystem supply details are included. Isn’t it impressive?”
Chu Ning lacked enthusiasm. “Looks like a plastic birdcage to me.” She didn’t see what was so fascinating about it.
“Oh wow! It can fly!”
Feng Zi Yang joined the majority of the crowd in amazement.
Chu Ning found it absurd. “Of course it can fly. If it couldn’t, would it even be called an aircraft?”
“This simulates a space environment. Successfully test-flying in such conditions is no easy feat,” Feng Zi Yang praised. “Amazing.”
Amazing my foot.
Chu Ning felt sleepy.
The host’s voice slightly perked her up. “Sixth group, Aerospace Engine Design.”
A section of the audience erupted into applause, clearly supporters. Chu Ning raised her head and scanned the stage. The white-clad boy stepped forward, bowing halfway to the school leaders and judges before walking to the center of the stage and bowing to the audience.
Chu Ning’s eyes lingered on him for two rounds, and her drowsiness vanished completely.
Oh, it’s him again?
It felt like an unexpected visit during boredom or a surprise bonus scene at the end of an otherwise dull movie.
Chu Ning squinted slightly, crossing her arms over her chest, and straightened her posture slightly.
The applause gradually softened, then quieted.
Ying Jing stepped forward, raising his right hand to signal. Below, Qi Yu assisted, methodically pressing the circuit board buttons. Ying Jing walked to the control panel and pulled the largest lever backward.
The model helicopter in the center buzzed loudly, hovered at half a meter, paused briefly, then took off with full force.
Feng Zi Yang commented, “Good power.”
Chu Ning unusually stayed silent.
The helicopter followed the predetermined route, executing flying maneuvers—straight sprints, sharp turns, and body rotations. Ying Jing focused on issuing flight commands, adjusting the propeller speeds.
All Chu Ning heard was the continuous hum of the plane’s engines echoing through the venue.
Five minutes passed.
Whispers began among the audience.
Seven minutes.
Applause started to build.
Feng Zi Yang leaned forward, stroking his chin with interest. “So enduring.” The helicopter had been flying continuously for ten minutes.
“Is this difficult?” Chu Ning asked.
“Typically, a single flight simulation doesn’t last more than five minutes, especially when performing complex maneuvers—it strains the engine.” Feng Zi Yang flipped through the brochure. “What’s this guy’s name?”
“Wow!!” Gasps erupted.
The green helicopter hovered in the left section, opening two openings on its sides. Its tail dipped, and its nose lifted, as if nodding to the audience.
Suddenly, two red ribbons shot out, bearing messages:
“Congratulations on the successful conclusion of our school’s Science and Innovation Competition!!”
The helicopter ascended vertically, accelerating and circling the venue. The red ribbons fluttered, and the school leaders beamed with joy.
When it reached the girls’ side on the right, the ribbons fell. The little green helicopter wasn’t idle—it wiggled its rear—
“Bang!” The crowd exclaimed, “Oh my!”
Petals scattered everywhere. Petal rain landed on the girls’ hair, faces, and legs, accompanied by bell-like laughter brimming with girlish delight.
Feng Zi Yang laughed heartily. “How interesting!”
The atmosphere reached its first climax.
This must be a borrowed idea from the “Goddess Scattering Flowers.” Have they paid the copyright fee yet? Chu Ning thought, her expression unconsciously relaxing.
Ying Jing on stage was different now. He was no longer serious; his eyes sparkled under the lights. The plane kept dancing, spinning twice, and flew directly forward, stopping three meters away, its nose pointing at Feng Zi Yang.
Everyone held their breath.
“Vroom vroom vroom!”
Fire at will!
The helicopter circled Feng Zi Yang, spraying multicolored mist from its tail, drawing a large circle around him.
The audience burst into laughter.
Feng Zi Yang wasn’t angry but amused, giving Ying Jing a thumbs-up with a knowing smile.
“...”
Chu Ning felt a wave of admiration. This interaction with the audience was ingeniously juvenile.
Before her thoughts could settle, the little green helicopter leisurely nodded up and down, suddenly turning its nose toward Chu Ning.
?!?!
What are you planning, you juvenile delinquent?
Chu Ning’s brows lightly furrowed as she glanced at the culprit on stage. Across six or seven meters, past numerous heads, Ying Jing met her questioning gaze without hesitation.
Their eyes met, and Chu Ning instantly confirmed—he remembered her. That sneaky brat did this on purpose.
Chu Ning remained composed, neither panicked nor alarmed. Her gaze slowly returned to the helicopter aiming at her, engaging in a staring contest. Her right hand subtly clenched into a fist—if you dare fly over, I’ll slap you down!
The wings slightly retracted, the tail dipped, and the body trembled, preparing for action.
Chu Ning’s fist silently gathered strength.
“Bang~bang~” Several sounds rang out, and the projectiles launched were... candies. They hit Chu Ning’s shoulders and fell onto her lap, tumbling over one another in heroic sacrifice—
Five or six celebratory packs of Want Want milk candies.
Ying Jing’s eyes were clear, and he grinned purely and warmly from the stage. This time, their gazes lingered for a bit longer.
Chu Ning coolly averted her eyes.
Hmph, quite the variety of tricks.
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