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Chu Ning sat through this dinner as if on pins and needles.
A round table with six seats, to the left were Mr. and Mrs. Feng, to the right were Chen Yue and Zhao Peilin, while Feng Ziyang and Chu Ning sat together. Watching him get up occasionally to pour drinks, his demeanor was respectful, and he hadn’t stopped smiling all evening.
Chu Ning tugged at him several times secretly, signaling him to drink less; tonight’s alcohol consumption had been more than enough.
But how could Feng Ziyang dare?
He still knew the occasion and the proper measure.
Zhao Peilin’s mood was well-fed by this “quasi-son-in-law,” chatting happily with Mr. Feng about current affairs, business, politicians, and even developing a sense of old friendship. The female guests naturally exchanged domestic chatter; Chen Yue held Mrs. Feng’s hand, very warmly.
“Our Ningning has always been stubborn since she was young, insisting on doing everything herself. All major decisions in her life have been made by her.” Though the words seemed reproachful, they actually praised Chu Ning.
Mrs. Feng naturally understood, agreeing with her, “This is independence. It’s not easy for a girl to have a clear mind.” She looked at Chu Ning and smiled, “Little Ning, you must keep an eye on Ziyang in the future. He is too playful and doesn’t settle down.”
Feng Ziyang laughed, “Mom, don’t speak ill of me in front of others. There’s no confirmation yet; if she leaves, will you compensate me with another one?”
Chu Ning inwardly admired Comrade Feng’s excellent acting skills.
Chen Yue quickly interjected, “How could she leave? Your kindness towards Ningning, I’ve seen it.”
Mrs. Feng scolded her son, “Pick a date, hold the engagement banquet, and become someone with family responsibilities. This frivolous habit must be changed.”
That first half of the sentence was exactly what they were waiting for.
Chen Yue’s smile deepened, “Which day in August specifically, does Elder Feng have any ideas?”
They referred to Feng Ziyang’s grandfather. After that visit where they personally came to deliver this matter, everyone thought it was just the elders’ whimsy, casually mentioned. But it turned out they were serious, consulting some Buddhist monk somewhere, solemnly analyzing birth charts and horoscopes, concluding that the event should happen in August.
Chu Ning truly felt a headache brewing.
“No later than early August.” Mrs. Feng enthusiastically said, “I hope it happens as soon as possible.”
Chen Yue eagerly agreed, “We’ll trouble Elder Feng for the arrangements.”
This meeting of parents was a mix of joy and sorrow for various families.
Halfway through, Chu Ning excused herself to go to the restroom but actually sneaked out to smoke. For this occasion, she was meticulously dressed today, wearing a simple crescent-white dress, without high heels, opting for flats instead. Standing next to Feng Ziyang, their heights matched perfectly.
She stood by the window, slightly annoyed, cigarette between her fingers, just lighting it when she suddenly found it utterly tasteless.
The smoke spiraled upward lazily.
“Hiding for peace?” Feng Ziyang’s voice sounded behind her. Chu Ning turned her head to the left, feeling a breeze on her right cheek. Feng Ziyang extended his arm and took the cigarette from her hand.
He smiled, “Smoke less, it’s not good for your health.”
Chu Ning crossed her arms over her chest, glancing at him without saying anything.
Feng Ziyang put the cigarette in his mouth, looking natural. After a moment of silence between them, he said, “Bored with the meal? Just bear with it for now, I’ll figure something out.”
Chu Ning was straightforward, reminding him, “Next month is already August.”
“I know, I have it under control.” Feng Ziyang said, “Once they’re over this fresh excitement, I’ll make arrangements.”
“How will you arrange it?”
Feng Ziyang puffed on the cigarette, looking at her, eyes slightly narrowed, quite seriously saying, “I’ll cheat.”
What a rotten idea, Chu Ning was speechless.
“When the time comes, I’ll take a few photos, use them as evidence, then talk to my mom. Tell her I cheated; you’ll have to cry when you confront her. My mom eats this up. Put all the blame on me; she’ll only feel sorry for you and naturally give in to everything you say.” Feng Ziyang had already planned out the steps, “If they don’t believe us, I’ll arrange a scene of catching me in bed. Follow my instructions, bring my mom in. You insist on breaking up, and this matter should be settled.”
Chu Ning found it amusing, “Do you really have to tarnish your reputation like this?”
Feng Ziyang didn’t care, “What’s the big deal? I’m her biological son anyway, at most, she’ll scold or yell at me, nothing more. Ning’er, though this method is nasty, it works immediately, trust me.”
Chu Ning didn’t refute him; she still understood the gravity of the situation. Though it seemed like a joke, both families were determined to marry them off. If the cause and effect weren’t convincing, it wouldn’t work.
She tacitly approved, quiet for a moment, asking, “What about Yao Yao? Are you two going to stay in this underground relationship forever?”
This statement hit Feng Ziyang’s sore spot.
His gaze darkened; the lady’s cigarette in his hand was almost finished in two puffs, the thin cigarette body burning rapidly to the end, a long ash falling off, blown away by the wind coming in from the window.
Restlessness was written all over his face; Feng Ziyang muttered, “This girl, she’s giving me a hard time, I can’t handle it anymore.”
Chu Ning lightly consoled him, “You two have been together for so many years, there’s nothing you can’t get over. You’re a man, be accommodating, think positively.”
Feng Ziyang shook his head, pain hidden between his brows, “Ning’er, you know me, am I such a petty man?”
With these words, Chu Ning refrained from further persuasion.
Feng Ziyang was broad-minded and generous. To drive him to this extent showed that it wasn’t a one-sided issue.
Tough love roads must be walked by the parties involved themselves.
Chu Ning remained silent, effectively ending this private topic.
“Do you have time this weekend?” Feng Ziyang brought up the main issue again, “I think we can’t delay any longer; let’s just do it.”
“Expose the affair?”
“Yes.”
“This week won’t work.” Chu Ning said, “I have to fly to Hangzhou.”
Feng Ziyang thought for a moment and guessed, “The aviation technology competition?”
“Yes.”
“Oh, are you becoming a tech enthusiast now?” Feng Ziyang teased, “Or is it for someone special?”
Chu Ning paused, and astonishingly, she didn’t deny it.
Feng Ziyang’s teasing grin widened, tilting his head to look at her face, “Let me see, hmm, you’re blushing.”
Chu Ning chuckled softly, not saying anything.
Feng Ziyang nodded, “Got some thoughts?”
“I’m just watching a competition; what’s the big deal?” Chu Ning remained calm, “I’m also an investor in this team; it’s part of my job.”
“Alright, alright.” Feng Ziyang smiled insincerely, lifting his suit jacket, inserting one hand into his trouser pocket, leaning against the wall lazily, saying, “That kid is impressive; he really got you.”
Chu Ning turned around, ignoring him, “We’ve been out here for too long, let’s go back in.”
The family banquet was harmonious, everyone excited for the upcoming happy event except the two individuals directly involved. They had already eaten enough, and after ten minutes or so, they dispersed.
Feng Ziyang stayed ahead, chatting merrily with Zhao Peilin and his father. Chu Ning followed behind Chen Yue and Mrs. Feng. Chen Yue’s enthusiasm was a bit excessive, bordering on flattery, which made Chu Ning quite uncomfortable.
The group headed towards the hotel entrance.
The manager approached, polite and deferential, “Mr. Feng, your car has been parked outside.”
Feng Ziyang nodded, continuing to chat with Zhao Peilin.
Summer in Beijing, the night breeze brushed against their faces, adding a cooling touch, dispelling the stuffiness from the air-conditioned room earlier. Chu Ning took a deep breath, finally regaining some strength in her limbs.
“Our Ningning, if there’s anything she does wrong, please feel free to point it out.” Chen Yue held Mrs. Feng’s hand, her attitude warm, “After we become one family, I’ll bother you to guide her more.”
Mrs. Feng also smiled, “Little Ning is very obedient; I liked this girl at first sight.” She looked at Chu Ning, her tone gentle, “From now on, we’re one family; don’t be too restrained, if anything happens, tell me. With Ziyang, I treat you as my own daughter; you won’t be wronged.”
Chu Ning responded gently, behaving sweetly, the image Mrs. Feng adored.
Ahead, Feng Ziyang suddenly called her, “Ning’er.”
Chu Ning raised her head but noticed his expression wasn’t right, hinting with a slight nod of his chin to the right. Then he smiled and walked over, taking her place to chat with Chen Yue and his mother.
Standing beside her, his back facing them, conveniently blocking the elders’ view.
Chu Ning turned her head and saw, her heart sinking!
Three meters away, Ying Jing quietly stood there.
He stood immovable, expressionless, like a rigid post.
Chu Ning understood Feng Ziyang’s intention; this was a warning.
Behind her was a joyous large family, in front was Ying Jing with pitch-black eyes. Chu Ning, caught in the middle, felt an inexplicable chill climbing up her spine. Under Ying Jing’s gaze for those ten seconds, her back broke into a cold sweat.
It was reminiscent of being scolded by the teacher for unfinished homework during childhood.
Guilty conscience indeed.
But then, something even more chaotic happened. Ying Jing took a step forward, heading this way.
Chu Ning’s fingers unconsciously clenched slightly, a physical manifestation of her tension.
Ying Jing’s expression was like stagnant water, impossible to interpret any emotion or intention. He only noticed the fleeting panic on Chu Ning’s face, making his gaze even darker.
His movement also caught the attention of Chen Yue and Mrs. Feng behind him; their curious gazes followed Ying Jing until he stopped, guessing that he knew Chu Ning.
Chu Ning was stuck between a rock and a hard place; she couldn’t pretend not to know him.
She forced a smile, stepping forward to intercept Ying Jing, “What a coincidence, eating here too?”
Ying Jing didn’t respond, just looking at her.
The atmosphere became somewhat awkward, even Mr. Feng glanced over.
“Xiao Jing.” Feng Ziyang timely smoothed things over, walking over to stand beside Chu Ning, smiling, “Alone?”
Still no response.
Those eyes moved, sharply and sensitively scrutinizing between Feng Ziyang and Chu Ning.
Confusion swirled in his mind, but he seemed to have some clarity, especially recalling Zhou Yuan and Qi Yu’s words during the meal. A certain answer was imminent.
Ying Jing’s nails dug into his palm; he kept scratching his hand.
Chu Ning noticed, a sign of his emotional instability.
Her heart sank, damn it, everything was piling up at once!
But at this point, not introducing him would be inappropriate.
Chu Ning gritted her teeth, turning to the elders, “This is one of my partners, Ying Jing. And these are my family members.” The latter part was directed at Ying Jing.
Her initiative softened Ying Jing’s expression slightly, okay, don’t embarrass her too much.
He was about to open his mouth to greet them.
Chen Yue and Mrs. Feng nodded first, a polite acknowledgment, then continued their conversation, “Once Grandpa Ziyang sets the date, many things need to start preparations.”
“Naturally, but Ziyang, despite your busy work schedules, the engagement banquet shouldn’t be neglected. Invitations, guest lists, dresses, all these require personal attention.”
The three words “engagement banquet” were like a dagger, leaving no room to dodge, accurately piercing Ying Jing’s heart.
The five words “Hello, Uncle and Aunt” instantly turned into a lump of red-hot iron, stuck in his throat, as if choking him, suffocating.
Seeing his ashen expression, Chu Ning knew,
It was over.
Instinctively, she stepped forward, lowering her voice, “Listen to me.”
Ying Jing stepped back, like a scholar drained of spirit by a fox spirit, devoid of blood and flesh.
He turned and ran.
Chu Ning shouted without hesitation, “Ying Jing!”
She even started running, instinctively chasing after him.
Behind her, Chen Yue scolded loudly, “Chu Ning!”
Probably sensing something, the name carried obvious warning tones.
“Aunt Feng is still here; no matter how important work matters are, they can wait until tomorrow.” Chen Yue implied, walking over to pull Chu Ning’s arm, displaying a close mother-daughter bond, leading her towards Mrs. Feng.
This completely shattered Chu Ning’s hopes, leaving no opportunity for Feng Ziyang to intervene either.
Chu Ning’s mind was blank, momentarily losing her bearings, her heart in turmoil.
She didn’t hear anything they said afterward, occasionally glancing in the direction Ying Jing ran. Holding her phone, her thoughts were unsettled.
Until the four parents got in the car and drove away.
Chu Ning immediately dialed Ying Jing’s number.
She called, he hung up.
Called again, hung up again, refusing to answer.
Feng Ziyang still joked, seeing her tense face, quipping, “Don’t spoil men too much; once spoiled, they’ll cling to death.”
Chu Ning glared at him, “He has a competition soon; nothing can go wrong at this time!”
Feng Ziyang clicked his tongue, “Is it really that serious?”
“Of course!” Chu Ning was genuinely worried, repeatedly calling, “What to do, he won’t pick up my calls!”
“Don’t worry, do you have his classmates’ numbers? Try theirs.”
Chu Ning tucked her hair behind her ear, remembering she had Qi Yu’s number.
Calling him, Qi Yu said, “We were eating here, but Xiao Jing… hasn’t come back since he went to the restroom. We just went to look for him, but he wasn’t there.”
Of course, he wouldn’t be there; Chu Ning pressed her forehead, saying, “Call him; if you reach him, ask where he is, then tell me, okay?”
“Eh! Alright!”
Ten minutes later, Qi Yu said dejectedly, “Sister Ning, Xiao Jing isn’t answering.”
Chu Ning’s head ached, sensing ominous signs.
Without another word, she snatched the car keys from Feng Ziyang’s suit pocket, “I’m borrowing your car.”
Feng Ziyang scoffed, “Then what about me?”
Her back was already ten meters away, “Use Didi Chuxing!”
Chu Ning first searched the nearby area; if he was walking, he shouldn’t be far. If he was hiding in some small shop, it would be really hard to find. Chu Ning parked the car by the roadside, pondering, ruling out this possibility.
She checked her watch, then turned the steering wheel, recklessly crossing lanes to turn the car around.
Returning to her apartment took twenty minutes.
Her door had a password lock, which Ying Jing knew. Chu Ning had a strange intuition, unfounded, but she chose to trust it.
“Beep—” Unlock.
She pushed the door open, her heart sinking; the living room lights were off.
But after a few steps, she saw the bathroom door slightly ajar, a two-finger-wide gap letting light spill out.
Chu Ning pushed the door open forcefully; the impact caused it to bang against the wall.
Seeing him, the breath she had been holding finally eased.
Ying Jing was squatting, a large basin in front of him, with three pairs of her light-colored sneakers beside him.
Chu Ning was stunned by this scene.
He didn’t turn around, head lowered, brushing her white sneakers with a brush.
The atmosphere froze, the pressure extremely low, unable to squeeze in a single casual remark to break the silence.
But Chu Ning still forced a smile, pretending to be relaxed, “So diligent, helping me wash shoes… but no salary, huh?”
Ying Jing stopped moving, water droplets sliding down his hand, gathering at his fingertips, then dropping one by one into the basin.
His expression remained obscure.
Just as Chu Ning began to feel reassured, thinking it wasn’t as bad as imagined—
Ying Jing did an unexpected move.
He lifted the basin abruptly.
Chu Ning instinctively raised her hand to block, thinking he would splash water on her.
But the next second, he poured the entire basin of water over himself.
Splash!
The sound of water.
Bang!
The sound of the basin hitting the ground.
Ying Jing was drenched, his face appearing gloomy and terrifying. He stared fiercely at Chu Ning, who felt a surge in her chest, fear rising, instinctively retreating backward.
Ying Jing closed in step by step, rudely pushing her against the wall, and a torrential kiss fell upon her.
Chu Ning was stunned.
By the time she reacted and tried to struggle, it was too late.
Because as she lowered her eyes, she saw two helpless tears sliding down Ying Jing’s face.
Even his breathing carried the scent of a broken heart.
He kissed while crying, not daring to ask anything.
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