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I was staying at the Shangri-La in Shanghai. After months of working in Hong Kong, I could finally enjoy the difference in prices. I had booked one of the hotel's best rooms, overlooking the city's breathtaking skyline.

Early that morning, I headed to the top-floor lounge for afternoon tea. As I walked through the elegant corridors, the hotel's signature fragrance lingered in the air—a luxurious scent that was surprisingly hard to find in Hong Kong. Dressed like a businesswoman on her day off, all I wanted was a good cup of coffee and a peaceful morning.

The moment I stepped inside, I let out a quiet sigh.

Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooked the city, soft romantic music drifted through the lounge, and warm sunlight spilled across the marble floor.

All those long hours working in Hong Kong... for moments like this, I thought.

The waiter politely led me to a table beside the window.

As I walked through the lounge, I couldn't help noticing that several men glanced in my direction. Some stared a little longer than necessary.

Was it because of my skin tone? Or because I looked different with my large eyes?

Pushing the thought aside, I opened the menu while admiring the elegant table settings. The waiter uncapped a bottle of sparkling water and waited patiently.

I smiled, pointed at the afternoon tea set on the menu, then added a cup of coffee.

He nodded with a smile.

After placing my beige coat over the back of my chair, I wrapped both hands around my coffee cup.

Finally...

I took a slow sip as I admired the busy streets and towering skyscrapers beyond the glass.

What a perfect day to relax.

Someone suddenly cleared his throat.

I looked up.

Standing before me was a medium-built man dressed in an expensive black suit. Thick gold chains rested around his neck, several rings gleamed on his fingers, and a heavy gold watch wrapped around his wrist. He looked like the kind of wealthy movie villain who expected everyone to obey him. Several bodyguards stood silently behind him.

"May I help you?" I asked politely.

Instead of answering, he cleared his throat again.

My eyebrows lifted in confusion.

He began speaking in rapid Mandarin.

I gave him an apologetic smile and bowed my head slightly.

"Dui bu qi... wo ting bu dong." (Sorry... I don't understand.)

He frowned before speaking even louder. Then, without hesitation, he pulled out a cigarette and tried to light it.

A member of the hotel staff rushed over and gently stopped him.

The man immediately shouted at the employee in Mandarin.

The entire lounge fell silent.

I awkwardly cleared my throat.

Before the situation could escalate, another man walked over.

He was tall—well over six feet—with broad shoulders and an effortless elegance. He wore a loose white linen shirt with the sleeves casually rolled up, paired with tailored black trousers. His skin was fair, almost porcelain under the morning light, and his neatly styled black hair framed a face that looked as though it had been sculpted. His sharp jawline, straight nose, and calm eyes gave him a quiet confidence. Even without trying, he stood out from everyone else in the room.

A gentle smile appeared on his lips.

"He's asking for your phone number," he translated.

The corners of his mouth lifted slightly as though he found the situation amusing.

Only then did I realize everyone in the lounge was watching us. Conversations had stopped, replaced by quiet whispers.

"I'm sorry," I said politely. "Bu hao yisi... I can't give him my number."

The tall man translated my response.

The wealthy man instantly looked irritated and muttered something under his breath before speaking again.

The translator listened quietly before replying in fluent Mandarin.

Their conversation went back and forth for several moments.

I leaned forward, unable to contain my curiosity.

"What did he say this time?" I asked.

The tall man looked at me for a moment.

Instead of answering, he simply smiled.

Then he turned, said one last sentence to the other man, and the group finally walked away.

Silence settled over the lounge once again.

The waiter arrived just then, carefully placing the afternoon tea stand before me.

Everything looked perfect.

Yet as I stared at the delicate pastries and steaming coffee, my thoughts drifted back to the mysterious stranger.

What... was that all about?

After that afternoon. I went inside my hotel room and just enjoying the cold aircon and luxurious room. I was just wearing a pajama in early day and was washing my teeth when the doorbell rang. It was my parcel. I was so very excited about it. I just ordered it and it came withing 20 minutes. It was a little translator phone. The delivery man left and I was alone in the corridor, when I noticed the man I saw earlier was checked in next to my room.

"Wait! Hey!" I shouted.

He quickly closes the door like he was trying to escape. I stood next to his door. " I was about to say thank you." I said.

I didn't expect him to open it since it seems like he doesn't like to talk to me but when I turned to walk, the door slightly opened. He looked at me. Damn, that eyes.

"Thank you." I said. Then I remember he's a chinese, "Oh! Xie xie." I added.

He slightly smiled and nodded. Silence felt almost every second.

"You're next to my room."  I replied.

He looked at my door, "Ohh." He said.

Finally, He said something. He looked at me from head to toe, I almost forgot that I was just wearing my pajamas.

"Was just relaxing for few weeks." I tried to explain.

His door was slightly more opened, I could see his room and couldn't believe it was bigger than mine.

I took a step forward, he pushed the door with only his head shown. I stopped as soon as he did that. "Oh. i just saw your room quiet bigger than mine. I'm sorry." I said

He looked down, "It's okay." He replied

Another round of awkwardness in the middle of the day. "Thought mine was the bigggest, the front desk told me so." I murmured

He fully open his door, he was barefoot. A large room and more fuller large windows. He coughed.

I took a step forward without his consent i pushed his door and walked to the room, it was a large room like a huge house with a loft and beautiful stairs.

"Wow. This one is insane." I wowed and felt amazed.

He let me in and let me roamed around. It felt like a home.

Then I realized I was completely in a stranger's room.

"Sorry." I said as I run slowly in the front door. I scratched my head. "Your place is so nice, I honestly want yours to be mine." I said without thinking.

He looked at me in confusion, "what I mean is, I want to switch places to yours if I could." I bit my lip too much talking.

I turned around and say goodbye to him. I call him, neighbor.

I texted the front desk and complained that i my room was the largest but it wasn't. I try to figure out when he's going to check out and it turns out it was booked until the next 5 years and fully paid.

Then I locked my phone in bitterness my lockscreen was still the picture of me and my ex boyfriend. The final words of my ex boyfriend played on my mind,

Let's call it quits..

I throw my phone in the bed.

I started my night with a daring clothes on, a red lipstick and curly hair in the edge. I'm going to the famous night club my money like it was never ending.

———————
Chapter 2

It was another production gathering, this time held at one of the most exclusive clubs on Sixth Avenue.

The directors had reserved a private VIP loft overlooking the dance floor. From above, the entire club stretched beneath us—flashing lights, pounding music, expensive liquor, and people dancing without a care in the world.

I had just wrapped up filming.

Still dressed in my black suit from the set, I walked through the crowded entrance. Women turned their heads as I passed, whispering to each other before returning to their conversations.

Ignoring the attention, I climbed the stairs to the loft.

The directors were already waiting.

Director Han stood first and welcomed me with a warm smile.

"Nǐ zài zhège juésè lǐ kàn qǐlái hěn wánměi. Zhè jiù shì wǒ xuǎnzé nǐ de yuányīn." (You look perfect for this role. That's exactly why I chose you.)

"Duì, lǎobǎn." (Yes, Boss.) Manager Lim answered with a grin before patting my shoulder.

I smiled politely.

"Xièxiè nǐ de kuājiǎng." (Thank you for the compliment.)

I lifted my bottle and took a sip of beer.

Director Han leaned comfortably against the sofa before changing the topic.

"Ràng wǒ huàn gè huàtí. Nǐ yǐqián hé nǐ de hézuò yǎnyuán jiāowǎng guò ma?" (Changing the subject... have you ever dated any of your co-stars?)

I gently swirled my beer before answering.

How could I possibly date anyone?

My schedule was filled from dawn until midnight. Between filming, script readings, endorsements, and interviews, I barely had enough time to sleep.

"Méiyǒu. Nà zhǐshì yì chǎng xì." (No. It was only acting.)

Manager Lim laughed.

"Nǐ zhīdào, píng tā de liǎn, rénmen huì juéde tā shì gè huāhuā gōngzǐ. Dàn tā bù shì. Wǒ kěyǐ wèi tā zuòzhèng." (You know, judging by his face, people would think he's a playboy. But he isn't. I can vouch for him.)

He tapped my back proudly.

Director Han chuckled.

"Huòxǔ tā zhǐshì hěn huì wán nòng nǚrén de xīn, duì ba?" (Or maybe he's just good at playing with women's hearts, don't you think?)

Everyone around the table laughed.

Manager Lim quickly defended me.

"Shì a. Yěxǔ tā zhǐshì xǐhuān tōutōu tán liàn'ài." (Maybe... or perhaps he simply prefers to date in secret.)

I only smiled.

There was no point denying or explaining anything.

Rumors came with fame.

The music downstairs grew louder as the night went on.

My eyes drifted toward the dance floor below.

Then I saw her.

The girl from the room next to mine.

She stood near the center of the crowd wearing a striking red dress, laughing with a handsome foreign man while holding a cocktail in one hand.

Moments later, she began dancing with him as though no one else existed.

She looked carefree...

Almost too carefree.

For some reason, I couldn't look away.

A hostess approached our table and gracefully sat beside me.

Director Han gave me a teasing smile.

"Take good care of our guest."

The woman smiled brightly before moving closer until our shoulders almost touched.

"Wǒ hěn xìngyùn néng bèi nǐ xuǎnzhōng. Shéi huì xiǎngdào wǒ jūrán néng zuò zài nǐ pángbiān?" (I'm very lucky to have been chosen by you. Who would've thought I'd get to sit beside you?)

As she spoke, her fingers slowly traced across my thigh.

I gently removed her hand.

"Nǐ shénme dōu bù yòng zuò. Wǒ bù jièyì. Wǒ huì wèi měi yī fēnzhōng fùqián." (You don't have to do anything. I don't mind. I'll pay for every second.)

She blinked in surprise.

Then she laughed.

"Hǎo le, bié zài zhuāng guāi háizi le. VIP kèrén de shēnfèn bù néng xiàng rènhé rén tòulù. Wǒmen dōu qiān guò bǎomì xiéyì le." (Enough with the good-boy act. A VIP guest's identity must never be disclosed to anyone. We've all signed a confidentiality agreement.)

I met her eyes.

"Méi guānxi. Wǒ méi shì." (It's okay. I'm fine.)

She shrugged before leaning back into the sofa.

I turned toward the balcony again.

The girl in the red dress was still downstairs.

She was laughing now, spinning beneath the flashing lights with yet another handsome man.

The hostess beside me noticed where I was looking.

"Nǐ kàn dào xiàmian chuān hóngsè qúnzi tiàowǔ de nàge nǚhái ma?" (Are you looking at that girl in the red dress dancing downstairs?)

I quickly looked away.

"I wasn't."

She smiled knowingly.

"Tā hěn yǒumíng, měi tiān wǎnshàng dōu huì dài zǒu yí gè shuàigē. Tā cóng shàng zhōu kāishǐ jiù yìzhí zhèyàng. Měi tiān yèwǎn dōu shì bùtóng de nánrén, dàn gègè dōu hěn shuài." (She's well known for leaving with a handsome guy every night. She's been doing it since last week. Every night it's a different man, but they're all handsome.)

I looked back at the dance floor.

Was she really that wild?

I had only ever seen her wearing simple clothes around the hotel...

Or pajamas whenever we crossed paths in the hallway.

Nothing about her suggested she lived this kind of life.

Yet...

Maybe first impressions really were deceiving.

The gathering finally came to an end just before dawn.

After everyone had left, I stayed behind in the VIP loft for another hour, finishing the last bottle of beer while answering a few messages from my manager.

By the time I returned to the hotel, the sun had already begun to rise.

It was almost seven in the morning.

My black suit jacket hung over my arm, and the top few buttons of my shirt were undone after the long night.

The hallway was unusually quiet.

I slipped my keycard into the door.

Just as I reached for the handle, the door beside mine suddenly flew open.

A young man stumbled out.

He was carrying his shoes in one hand while trying to steady himself against the wall. His shirt was wrinkled, his hair was a mess, and he looked completely drunk.

"You can finish your story some other time!" he shouted toward the room before hurrying down the hallway. "Goodbye!"

He nearly tripped over his own feet before disappearing around the corner.

I frowned.

What...?

Before I could process what had just happened, another figure stepped out of the room.

It was my neighbor.

Her hair was tied into a messy bun, and she wore an off-shoulder beige sweater with white shorts. In one hand, she held a pair of kitchen tongs.

She leaned into the hallway with a bright smile.

"I'm making pancakes!" she called after the man.

Then she laughed.

The cheerful sound echoed through the otherwise silent corridor.

Only then did she notice me standing by my door.

For a brief moment, our eyes met.

She offered me an awkward smile before giving a small shrug, as if the entire situation was perfectly normal.

I stared at her for a second.

Then I unlocked my door and went inside without saying a word.

The moment the door closed behind me, I leaned against it.

What... was she doing?

Should I call the police?

Was she addicted to bringing strangers home?

The hostess's words from the club replayed inside my head.

"She's well known for leaving with a handsome guy every night."

"Every night it's someone different."

I rubbed my temples.

Maybe she really was that kind of woman.

Over the next few weeks, I couldn't help noticing the same pattern.

Whenever I came home late after filming, there would often be different men walking beside her in the hallway.

Sometimes they laughed together while waiting for the elevator.

Other times, I spotted her outside the club chatting comfortably with another handsome stranger.

Every day, it seemed to be someone new.

At first, it bothered me.

Eventually...

I convinced myself it was none of my business.

She was simply my neighbor.

Nothing more.

Weeks passed.

One afternoon, filming wrapped earlier than expected.

Exhausted, I returned to the hotel hoping to catch up on sleep.

Not long after I had changed into a loose black T-shirt, the doorbell rang.

I sighed.

I'd already told the hotel countless times that I didn't need housekeeping every day.

Walking to the door, I opened it halfway.

"Wǒ hěn bàoqiàn, wǒ bù xūyào qīngjié fúwù." (I'm sorry, I don't need cleaning service.)

The words stopped in my throat.

Standing outside wasn't the usual housekeeper.

It was her.

Her hair was tied up exactly as before.

She wore an off-shoulder striped top that exposed one shoulder, paired with simple shorts.

She held a small cardboard box with both hands.

Without saying a word, she extended it toward me.

I leaned casually against the doorframe and crossed my arms.

So... I'm your next target now?

A faint smile appeared on my face.

"Oh."

"That's thoughtful of you."

"You really didn't have to."

"I appreciate it."

She blinked.

Then she looked down at the box before looking back at me.

Slowly, she smiled.

"It's yours."

She pushed the box into my hands.

I glanced at it before offering it back.

"Thanks," I said politely.

"But I already have plenty of these."

"You should keep it. I'm sure it'll be more useful to you."

She stared at me.

For several long seconds...

She didn't move.

She didn't take the box back either.

Instead, she looked at me with an expression I couldn't quite understand.

She frowned before looking down at the box.

Then she looked back at me.

"It's yours," she repeated, pointing at the shipping label.

I lowered my eyes.

Printed clearly on the parcel was my room number.

I froze.

She let out a small laugh.

"I think the hotel staff accidentally left it outside my room."

She pushed the box toward me again.

This time, I accepted it.

"...Thank you."

She simply smiled.

Then she turned around and walked back toward her room.

I stood there, still holding the package in my hands.

Only after she closed her door did I glance at the shipping label again.

It really was mine.

I had mistaken her intentions.

Closing my door, I quietly placed the box on the table.

For some reason, the image of her smile lingered in my mind.

Later that same day, after taking a shower, I heard a knock on my door.

I was still drying my hair with a towel when I opened it.

It was her.

She was wearing pajamas again—even though it was broad daylight.

"Hey," she greeted cheerfully the moment I opened the door.

"Hello," I replied politely, instinctively glancing down the hallway to see if anyone was watching us.

"Are you going out?" she suddenly asked.

I shrugged.

"It's my day off," I answered, hoping that would be enough for her to leave.

Instead, she gently pushed the door open and stepped inside.

"Good," she said, her eyes widening as she admired the room.

I froze.

I didn't even have time to react.

Should I call my manager?

The police?

Or maybe the front desk?

Is this some kind of trap?

Is she a fan?

She walked farther into the room and confidently sat down on my sofa.

"Your place is really beautiful," she said, looking around with genuine admiration. "I couldn't miss the chance to see it."

I silently walked to the refrigerator, grabbed a bottle of water, and took a long drink.

How was I supposed to maintain my polite actor image on my day off?

"Are you enjoying this?" she asked, still looking around the suite.

I frowned.

"What?"

"Staying here," she clarified. "It must feel so nice spending your days off in a place like this. Do you sleep well at night?"

I didn't answer.

I only wanted her to leave.

"Would you like something to eat?" she asked again.

She's really persistent.

I quietly picked up my phone, ready to call someone for help.

Before I could press a button, she spoke again.

"I'm all alone here," she said softly as she walked over and opened the window. "It'd be nice to have an older brother like you while I'm in Shanghai."

Older brother?

I slowly lowered my phone.

Was she pretending not to recognize me...

Or did she genuinely have no idea who I was?

She wandered toward the refrigerator, opened it without hesitation, and took out a carton of milk.

Holding it up, she looked at me with a bright smile.

"Gege?"

I cleared my throat.
———————

Chapter 3.

I was walking to the mall when I suddenly bumped into a life-size cardboard advertisement. It was him.

It was the guy living next door.

Suddenly, I remembered him telling me he was a model. I couldn't help but stare at the display for a few seconds. It felt surreal to know someone whose face was printed on a huge advertisement.

Back in my country, modeling wasn't a high-paying or stable career. Seeing him here made me realize he wasn't joking when he told me about his job.

I pulled my phone out of my pocket and took a selfie with the cardboard standee.

Without thinking, I dialed his number.

It was fun seeing you around the city, It must be great to be a model. Remember me when you hit big time.

It's me mei miei.

After a few steps my phone vibrates, it was from him.

Where did you get my number? He replied

Remember? The parcel? It has your phone number. I'm good at memorizing it. I texted him back.

Sent.

What was your name again? I asked.

It took him 30 minutes to reply.

You can call me anything. He replied.

I smiled as I walk.

————————————-
I was heading to a mall show I was wearing a business attire with makeup on. It's the reality of being actor here in china. If I only knew how tiring this job is, I wouldn't do it again. I sighed as the driver turned left the wheel.

Suddenly my phone vibrates. A simple day turns surprising when I receive a message from her. The girl next door. How she got my number. I texted back without thinking.

Fuck.  later I realize if I haven't texted her back she would think this number isn't working or mine either.

How do I answer this?

Do I need to change my number again? Why does the hotel staff is very negligent about this. I rubbed my head.

I downloaded at the photo she had sent. She was standing next to my standee doing peace sign. I can't help but to laugh quietly. Does this woman really know who I am? Is this kind of her tricks to get closer to me? I just played along for the sake of staying at my place.

"Nǐ zhè zhōu yǒu pāishè, wǒmen de xíngchéng yǐjīng páimǎn le. You have a shoot this week. Our schedule is already full, You have a shoot this week, our schedule is full" Manager han said as he was scrolling on his ipad.

I looked at her photo and seeing if I look good on that standee.

Manager han coughed.

I nodded slightly acknowledging his words as I soon texted her back, then I rolled the windows down. My standee and faces were all over the city. How come I just notice it today? 

After the mall show, I came to the studio to prepare I was on my way to a mall event, dressed in a tailored business suit with full makeup already done. It was the reality of being an actor in China. If I had known how exhausting this job really was, I might never have chosen this path.

I let out a quiet sigh as the driver turned the steering wheel to the left.

Suddenly, my phone vibrated.

An ordinary day became unexpectedly interesting the moment I saw her name on my screen.

The girl next door.

How did she even get my number?

Without thinking, I replied.

Fuck.

Only after sending the message did I realize my mistake. If I hadn't replied, she would've assumed the number wasn't mine—or that it no longer worked.

Now what?

Should I change my number again?

Why was the hotel staff so careless with guests' privacy?

I rubbed my temple in frustration.

Then I opened the photo she had sent.

She was standing beside my life-sized standee, flashing a peace sign with the brightest smile.

A quiet chuckle escaped my lips.

Did this woman even know who I was?

Or was this just another excuse to get close to me?

Either way, I decided to play along. It was easier than making things awkward while we were staying on the same floor.

"Nǐ zhè zhōu yǒu pāishè, wǒmen de xíngchéng yǐjīng páimǎn le. You have a shoot this week. Our schedule is already full," Manager Han said as he scrolled through his iPad.

My eyes remained on the photo, studying the cardboard version of myself.

At least the standee looked decent.

Manager Han cleared his throat.

Only then did I look up.

I gave a slight nod to acknowledge what he had said before sending her another reply.

As I rolled down the car window, I noticed something I had somehow overlooked before.

My face was everywhere.

Billboards.

Store displays.

Posters.

Even the standee she had taken a picture with.

How had I only noticed it today?

⸻

After finishing the mall appearance, I headed straight to the studio for a script rehearsal with the rest of the cast.

"Bù hǎoyìsi. Sorry I'm late," I apologized as I entered the rehearsal room.

Everyone simply nodded and continued working as if nothing had happened.

During our break, Zhang Jingyi walked over to me.

"Nǐ hǎoxiàng dōu méi huí wǒ de xiāoxi. You haven't been replying to my messages," she said.

I gave her a small smile.

"Nǐ gěi wǒ fā xiāoxi le ma? Did you text me?" I asked.

She nodded slowly.

"Duì. Wǒ wèn nǐ zài nǎlǐ. Yeah. I asked where you were," she replied.

"Mm."

"Bù hǎoyìsi. Zuìjìn yǒudiǎn máng. Sorry. I've been busy lately," I said.

She glanced at me from the corner of her eye.

"Yǒu yícì yǒurén gēnzōng wǒ. Nǐ shì wǒ dì yī gè dǎ diànhuà de rén. A stalker followed me once. You were the first person I called," she said.

I froze.

Fuck.

"Shénme shíhou fāshēng de? When did that happen?" I asked, unable to hide the concern in my voice.

She smiled softly.

"Suàn le. Xià cì jìde huí wǒ de xiāoxi. Never mind. Just reply to my messages next time," she said.

I didn't know whether I should feel guilty... or pressured.

Was I supposed to worry about every little thing that happened to my co-stars?

Or was I really the only person she could call?

⸻

By the time I returned to the hotel, it was already late.

I slid my keycard against the lock.

The light flashed red.

Again.

I tried one more time.

Nothing.

Just then, the door beside mine opened.

Warm light spilled into the hallway.

It was the girl next door.

She was carrying a small trash bag. The moment she noticed me struggling with the door, she smiled.

"You're here."

I returned a small smile before turning my attention back to the lock.

The keycard still refused to work.

Before I knew it, she had walked over and gently taken the card from my hand.

As she stood beside me, I caught the faint scent of fresh shower gel lingering around her.

She slid the card into the slot, removed it at the right speed, and the door unlocked with a soft click.

"There," she said. "You have to do it like this."

I simply watched her.

She demonstrated it once more before handing the keycard back.

What was she trying to do?

She lightly tapped the card against my chest.

"You're not even listening. I'm not explaining it again."

She rolled her eyes.

"Mm," I replied quietly.

I watched as she walked back toward her room.

Halfway there, she suddenly stopped.

She turned around and looked at me.

"You should wear shirts more often instead of suits. The weather here isn't made for them."

Her gaze lingered on my face.

"Your makeup looks good..." she paused with a teasing smile.

"...but I prefer your bare face."

I smiled.

———————————-
Chapter 4

It was another week and as usual I put my lipstick on and fixed my hair and sprayed my black opium from YSL all around me.

I gently closes the door. Going to the night club again. Feels like I just turned 18.

I went to the parking lot and guess what? I bought a car. I immediately run towards it as soon as I see my red electric car. I almost hugged it.

I turned on the engine and put my hands on the wheels, I even fix the mirror and see myself beautiful.

    "Piàoliang" I said as I looked at myself in the mirror.

I went directly to the night club again, everyone was looking at me as soon as I arrived, loud music was playing. I partied like there was no tomorrow. I stand on the emptiest table as soon as I felt dizzy. Suddenly my phone vibrates. I got it on my bag.

"Your employer called me, You should go back soon," My ex boyfriend texted me.

Fuck. How this bastard still trying to be connected to me.

I texted him back, "Fuck you,"

He has a guts to tell me over and over again. He even send me a text like he was concern. Fuck him.

"Any problems?"

I shooked my head, "No, nothing. A scammer just texted me." I said to the guy I was partying with.

Then another message again, "That's why I left you. You're childish. I told you it's always happened around men. You won't forget that shit." He said.

My head was spinning and my nerves feel like blowing. I don't know if it's from the alcohol that made me feel that or the fact the he was asking me to forgive him.

A guy tried to hugged me, I removed his arms around me and I immediately get my pouch on the table.

"You're no fun." He shouted.

I raises my middle finger.

I went to my car and couldn't start the engine. I punched the wheels as the memories of my ex boyfriend replaying on my head up until to the point where he cheated on me. I screamed hard inside and was crying.

Then, I started the engine, and press my feet deep on the pedal as I drive around shanghai passing red lights and couldn't care if I'll die.

Suddenly a dog was crossing over and my speed was high. My eyes widened as I see it walking straight. I tried hard to push hard the break and steer the wheel to the left.

Then

Nothing. I blacked out.
————————————-

I was at another script rehearsal, seated beside Zhang Jingyi.

My phone rested on the small table to my left while we continued reading through our scripts.

A few minutes later, the screen lit up.

I ignored it.

A few seconds later, it lit up again.

And again.

Who kept texting me?

I tried to stay focused on the script in my hands, but my eyes kept drifting toward my phone.

Then it started ringing.

Girl Next Door.

I excused myself and answered as I stepped out of the rehearsal room.

"Hel—"

Before I could finish, a man's anxious voice interrupted me.

"Is this the owner of this phone? Your sister has been in an accident."

My heart skipped a beat.

"What?"

"She's on Second Avenue. She won't wake up."

For a split second...

I couldn't breathe.

The memory of my little sister's accident years ago flashed through my mind.

Back then, someone had tried calling me.

I never answered.

By the time I got there...

It was too late.

Not again.

Without another word, I sprinted toward the parking lot.

My manager shouted after me, but I didn't stop.

The driver was already opening the car door.

"Second Avenue," I said.

He stepped on the accelerator immediately.

The entire ride there, my chest felt unbearably tight.

Every red light.

Every second.

Every memory.

I couldn't stop thinking about my sister.

I couldn't lose someone again.

⸻

We arrived at Second Avenue.

I threw the door open.

"Boss."

My driver stopped me and handed me a black cap and a face mask.

"There are a lot of people."

I took them without a word and covered my face.

Then I ran.

I ran the same way I wished I had run for my sister all those years ago.

A damaged sedan sat crookedly on the opposite side of the road.

The front bumper was crushed, as though it had skidded across the pavement before stopping.

She was sitting against the roadside barrier.

Her eyes were closed.

I dropped to my knees beside her.

"...Hey."

No response.

A middle-aged man standing nearby looked at me.

"Is she your sister?"

I couldn't bring myself to answer.

I simply nodded.

A woman nearby sighed.

"She swerved to avoid a dog that suddenly crossed the road."

Another shook her head.

"Who risks their life for a stray dog?"

"Enough," the older man interrupted. "She isn't seriously injured. She's just unconscious... and drunk."

He looked at me.

"You should take her home. She'll need to report to the police tomorrow."

I nodded quietly.

My driver carefully carried her into our car.

A few moments later, he jogged back.

"Boss, she's breathing normally. She's just asleep."

Relief washed over me.

"Take her to my apartment," I said. "I'll drive her car. Follow behind me."

"Yes, Boss."

Before leaving, I bowed politely to everyone gathered there.

"I'm sorry for the trouble."

Keeping my head lowered, I made sure no one saw my face.

I climbed into her car.

Just as I was about to start the engine, someone knocked gently on the driver's window.

It was the older man.

"Young man."

He held out a phone.

"She dropped this."

I accepted it with both hands.

"Thank you."

He smiled.

"Luckily, there wasn't a password."

He paused.

"I only saw one contact."

He looked at me.

"It was you."

Before I could ask anything else, he waved.

"I should get going."

He disappeared into the crowd.

I looked down at the phone in my hand.

One contact.

Me.

Was...

I really the only person she had?

I started the engine.

A few minutes later, I stopped at a red light.

The phone vibrated.

Its screen lit up on the passenger seat.

I shouldn't look.

I knew I shouldn't.

But my eyes drifted toward it anyway.

Bastard

A new message appeared.

You need to accept reality already.

You don't have to keep proving anything to us.

My grip on the steering wheel tightened.

Who...

...was this bastard?
———————

I woke up in a soft bed that felt so comfortable I could have slept there all day. Staying in a hotel for the rest of my life suddenly didn't seem like such a bad idea.

I rolled onto my side and slowly opened my eyes. A beige curtain swayed gently as the warm morning sunlight filtered through the window.

Then it hit me.

I wasn't in my room.

I shot out of bed, my heart racing. The first thing I did was check myself, making sure no one had taken advantage of me. I was still wearing the loose white T-shirt and shorts I had worn the night before.

I couldn't remember what had happened.

Standing beside the bed, I looked around.

Wait...

This place looked familiar.

I quietly made my way downstairs, careful not to make a sound.

The sound of a faucet being turned off caught my attention.

I followed it and froze.

The guy next door.

He had just come out of the shower. He was already dressed and was casually drying his hair with a towel.

Instinctively, I crossed my arms over my chest.

He noticed me.

"Mm," he greeted simply.

Curiosity quickly got the better of me. Why did I end up here? The last thing I remembered...

"Care to explain?" I asked as I walked toward him.

He continued moving around the room as if nothing was unusual.

"I didn't change your clothes. My lady driver did," he said.

He grabbed a bottle of water from the counter.

"Then why did I end up here?" I asked.

He looked at me, slightly confused.

"I told her to take you back to your room, but you refused to leave last night."

Did I?

I picked up a glass and poured myself some water.

"Did something happen?" I asked quickly.

He stared at me with his usual unreadable expression.

"Is this part of the plan?" he asked instead.

I frowned.

"You should still tell me," I said.

Had my plan already worked? Was this the moment I was supposed to return to Hong Kong?

I cleared my throat.

"Did anything happen?" I asked again, my heart pounding harder with every second.

A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

"No," he replied. "I'm not that kind of person."

I let out a sigh of relief.

So they were right.

Then why did I feel... disappointed?

I was finally going back to the place I used to call home, yet for some reason, the thought of leaving made my chest feel strangely heavy.

I placed the empty glass on the kitchen island, picked up my belongings from his elegant couch, and headed for the door without saying goodbye—or even thanking him.

But just as I reached the entrance, a question stopped me.

I turned to look at him.

"One more thing," I said. "If I refused to go back to my room... then why did I end up staying in yours?"
——————-
Another day passed, a routine is still a routine. Partying all night and sober through the day.

I was partying in the night club and completely drunk. I was about to go the comfort room but there's a long line there.

I heard one female talks about the comfort room above. I followed them upstairs.

"VIP" A chinese man bouncer stopped me, pointing the poster for vip guest only.

I pouted, "Mr. I am just going to pee. Let me in please?" I am trying hard to please him.

He shooked his head, crossing his arms infront of me. What an idiot.

I sighed.

Then my eyes fall on the 2nd table. My eyes widened as I saw him. I quickly waved my hand and shouted.

"Gege!" I should loud.

The bouncer looked behind him. Please look at me, Please.

Then.

His eyes fall to my gaze. I suddenly smile and asked him to come.

He came towards me.

"Mm." He just said.

"He won't let me in, I'm gonna use restroom." I said.

He shrugged his head to tell the bouncer that i'm with him which they let me.

"I'm sorry for bothering you. I really need to use the rest room." I said, pup-pied eyes.

While I was walking on the hallway. The man on his table looked at me. I just bowed down and smiled.  There are few of them as if they were talking business. I also notices that they were having some girls beside them. He sat back on his table while I went straight to the comfort room.

So he partied too.

I looked at myself in the mirror. Why this guy is so emotion less while he was having fun?

I walked out of the restroom and walking straight to the hallway where I could passed on their table. I tried not to be notice by them. I walk quietly as I could.

"You're going home?" He suddenly said.

I slowly turned my head at him, "Nope. Nope." I grinned.

—————-

I waited for her to finish dancing before returning to our table.

Just as I sat down, I noticed her walking straight past me as if I wasn't even there.

"You're heading home?" I asked.

She shook her head with a smile. She was wearing a short navy-blue dress that swayed gently with every step. Under the colorful club lights, she looked nothing like the shy girl who lived next door.

Director Han's eyes followed her.

"Zhè wèi měinǚ shì shéi a?" he asked with a grin. "Who's this beautiful young lady?"

I cleared my throat.

"Tā shì wǒ de jì mèimei." I coughed lightly before translating, "She's my stepsister."

Director Han raised an eyebrow.

"Zěnme bù bǎ nǐ mèimei jiào guòlái? Rén duō cái rènào ma. Why don't you invite your little sister over? The more people, the livelier."

Then he waved at her enthusiastically.

"Guòlái, yìqǐ wán a! Come here! Join us!"

She continued smiling politely, clearly unable to understand a single word.

I leaned back against the couch.

"He wants you to join us," I translated.

Everyone's attention shifted to her.

She scratched the back of her head awkwardly. I was sure she would refuse. She had never liked hanging around groups of strangers—especially when they were all men.

Out of curiosity, she glanced toward the dance floor.

The man she had been dancing with only minutes earlier already had another woman wrapped around his arm.

Director Han laughed before reaching out and gently tugging her wrist.

"Guòlái."

This time, she gave in.

She sat beside me.

The moment she realized everyone was looking at her, she glanced at me for help.

Instead, she smiled brightly.

"I'm... San Chai."

"San Chai?" Director Han repeated curiously.

She bit her lower lip, embarrassed.

"I don't have a Chinese name," she admitted. "But I'd rather be called San Chai... like the girl from F4."

The entire table burst into laughter.

Even I couldn't help smiling.

A few bottles of beer later, the atmosphere became much more relaxed.

She turned toward me, lifting her bottle.

"You know..." she said, her cheeks slightly flushed, "...I should've invited you out for drinks the day we first met."

Our bottles clinked together.

Her eyes sparkled beneath the shifting neon lights.

She laughed more than I'd ever seen before.

She drank as if she had no worries left in the world.

One bottle became two.

Then three.

Without realizing it, she rested her elbow on my thigh while staring absentmindedly at the crowded dance floor.

I let out a quiet sigh and slowly shifted my leg away.

Pretending not to notice, I turned my attention toward the hostess sitting on my other side.

She took my silence as permission.

Her fingers slowly traced the line of my jaw.

She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear before leaning closer.

Her perfume mixed with the smell of alcohol.

"Wēi Lóng... nǐ néng bāng wǒ shíxiàn yí ge yuànwàng ma?" she whispered softly.

"Wei Long... can you grant me one wish?"

I frowned.

It suddenly occurred to me that I had allowed her to stay this close longer than I normally would.

The hostess leaned forward, her lips only inches away from mine.

At that exact moment...

The girl next door turned toward us.

Without thinking, I reached out and gently cupped the side of her face, guiding her gaze away before she could witness the scene.

At the same time, I turned my own face in the opposite direction.

The hostess's lips brushed nothing but air.

She froze.

"...What?"

Annoyed, she grabbed my wrist and pushed my hand away.

The sudden movement made the girl next door turn back toward me.

I leaned forward instinctively.

She did the same.

Our faces stopped only inches apart.

Time seemed to pause.

The flashing club lights reflected in her large almond-shaped eyes, making them shimmer like glass.

She wasn't smiling anymore.

She was staring directly at me.

Confused.

Waiting.

For a brief second...

Neither of us moved.

Neither of us looked away.

I was the first to break the silence.

"I said..." I murmured quietly.

"Look down."

She blinked.

"The guy you were dancing with earlier..."

I nodded toward the dance floor.

"...already found someone else."

Her eyes followed my gaze.

The man was now laughing with another woman in his arms.

I stood up.

Grabbing the car keys from the table, I glanced toward my manager and driver.

"I'm leaving."

Then I looked at her.

"Let's go."

She stood as well, though the annoyed expression on her face hadn't disappeared.

She rolled her eyes at me before following anyway.

She slept through the entire drive, completely worn out from the alcohol.

I was the one behind the wheel.

Without waking her, I reached into the back seat, grabbed my coat, and gently draped it over her. The air-conditioning inside the car was cold, and despite everything, I didn't want her catching a chill.

When we arrived at the hotel, she slowly opened her eyes.

Surprisingly, she managed to get out of the car without stumbling.

She wasn't exactly walking in a straight line, though.

I followed a few steps behind, watching her sway from side to side as she made her way down the quiet hallway. Every now and then, she'd bump lightly into the wall before correcting herself with a sleepy giggle.

She finally stopped in front of the first door.

Her room.

Instead of taking out her keycard, she turned around and looked at me with a puzzled expression, as though she'd forgotten something important.

"What is it?" I asked.

A ridiculous thought crossed my mind.

Don't tell me she's looking for another guy...

She scratched the back of her head and smiled sheepishly.

"I left my little pouch on the table."

I nodded.

"I'll let them know."

She grinned, though her eyes were already half-closed from exhaustion.

"My cards... and my keycard are inside."

She blinked at the door in front of her.

Then blinked again.

"...So..."

She pointed at the locked door before looking back at me with an awkward smile.

"I can't get in." She playfully said.

I gently took hold of her wrist and led her toward my room.

Reaching into my pocket, I pulled out my keycard and unlocked the door. This time, the lock clicked open without trouble.

I stepped aside, letting her walk in first.

She wandered a few steps inside before stopping against the wall, letting out a tired sigh.

The room was dim, illuminated only by the warm lights along the hallway. Their soft glow outlined her figure, while the city lights outside painted faint reflections across the floor.

I stood in front of her.

For a long moment, neither of us spoke.

Without realizing it, I lifted both hands and gently cupped her small face.

"What exactly is your plan?" I asked quietly.

She chuckled, her words slurring together.

"Plan?"

Her dazed eyes slowly found mine.

"You saw me... before you came over."

She was talking about earlier.

When she'd been waving at me outside the club while the bouncer stopped her.

I had heard her calling my name.

I had simply pretended not to.

I lowered my hands.

"You're drunk," I said.

Turning away, I took a few steps toward the living room.

"I'll sleep somewhere else."

Before I could leave, gentle fingers wrapped around my wrist.

I stopped.

Our eyes met.

"Why would you sleep somewhere else?" she mumbled with a sleepy smile. "This is your place."

I carefully loosened her grip, but my heartbeat refused to calm down.

Her navy dress had slipped slightly off one shoulder. Loose strands of hair framed her flushed face, and her red lipstick was still perfectly intact.

She looked at me as though I were the only person in the room.

"I could sleep well with you," she whispered drunkenly.

I turned away, forcing myself to breathe.

Then I heard it.

"Gege..."

My entire body froze.

Slowly, I turned back.

She was still leaning against the wall, smiling absentmindedly.

"Gege," she repeated.

I walked back toward her until only a small distance separated us.

"You shouldn't call me that," I said softly.

She tilted her head.

"Gege..."

The word fell from her lips once more.

Silence settled between us.

I looked into her eyes.

Then at her lips.

My restraint wavered.

Without thinking, I leaned closer.

Close enough to feel the warmth of her breath.

Close enough that, if either of us moved even slightly, our lips would meet.

For one dangerous second...

I almost closed the distance.

Almost.

My hand tightened into a fist.

I shut my eyes and forced myself to step back.

"No..."

The word escaped in nothing more than a whisper.

I gently rested my forehead against hers for the briefest moment before pulling away.

"Not like this."

However, she leaned forward, closing the small distance between us. Before I could react, our lips brushed softly, sending a jolt through me. My eyes widened in surprise as I realized what had just happened.

Then it hit me.

She was awake.

She hadn't moved by accident or out of instinct. She had leaned in deliberately. For a brief, breathless moment, neither of us pulled away. The world around us seemed to fade into silence as our lips remained gently pressed together.

She was awake.

She was kissing me.

She blinked up at me, too exhausted and intoxicated to understand what I meant.

A second later, her knees gave way.

I caught her before she could fall.

She had already drifted asleep.

Letting out a quiet sigh, I slipped one arm beneath her knees and the other around her back, lifting her carefully into my arms.

She stirred slightly, instinctively resting her head against my shoulder before falling still again.

I carried her to the bedroom and laid her gently on the bed.

After pulling the blanket over her, I stood there for a moment, watching her peaceful expression.

"...Good night."

I turned off the bedside lamp, quietly closed the bedroom door behind me, and spent the rest of the night on the couch.

Morning arrived quietly, washing the world in soft golden light. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting warm patterns across the room as the gentle chirping of birds drifted in from outside. A cool breeze slipped through the open window, carrying the fresh scent of dew and the promise of a new day.

Despite the peaceful morning, my thoughts were anything but calm. I had only managed a few hours of sleep. Every time I closed my eyes, memories of yesterday came rushing back, replaying in my mind over and over. I lay there staring at the ceiling, wondering if it had really happened or if it had all been a dream.

The room was silent except for the faint sound of steady breathing beside me. The world outside had already begun to wake, but I remained lost in my thoughts, unable to shake the emotions that yesterday had left behind.

She woke up, and I pretended I'd slept through the entire night.

Without saying a word, she walked straight to the couch and started eating the snacks on the coffee table as if nothing had happened yesterday. Had she already forgotten? Or was this simply how she acted every morning?

I let out a quiet sigh.

"You're awake. You should head back to your room," I said as I poured two glasses of Coke.
She casually sat on the couch as though it belonged to her. "I still feel a little dizzy," she replied, her eyes fixed on her phone.

I cleared my throat.

"So... you're not going to ask about yesterday?" I asked carefully.

She looked up at me with a playful smile.

"I won't."

She slipped her phone into her pocket, stood, and walked toward me until only a step separated us.
"As long as it was you, there's nothing to ask." She smiled. "You're like a brother to me."

Her words hit me harder than I expected.

I tightened my grip on the edge of the table, trying to keep my expression calm.

Should I tell her?

The memory of our kiss kept replaying in my mind while she wandered around my room as if nothing had happened.

"I should go upstairs and get my things," she said.

I quietly nodded.

A few minutes later, I carried my laundry upstairs. As I reached the hallway, I heard her voice through the slightly open door. She was on the phone.

"Grace, I'm leaving after I prove them wrong," she said.

There was a brief pause.

"I've been with so many guys, and I swear... none of them has ever kissed me or even touched me."

Another pause.

"I told you. They lied to me. They're still lying."

I froze where I stood, listening from the other side of the wall.

My heart began to pound.

What was she talking about?

And what exactly was she trying to prove?
——————————
Chapter 5 – Dalian
A loud knock outside jolted me awake.

Whoever it was wasn't knocking on my door—they were pounding on the apartment next door.
Curious, I opened mine.

"Shénme?" I asked instinctively.

The man standing in the hallway looked to be around my age. He was tall, handsome, and spoke rapidly in Mandarin.

"Wei-long?" he asked.

I frowned, trying to understand him.

"The guy who lives here?" I asked, pointing toward the neighboring apartment.

His face lit up as he nodded.

"Yes."

"I think he's at work," I replied.

He looked me up and down before carefully piecing together his English.

"You... live here?"

I nodded.

"Yan Li," he said, extending his hand.

I smiled politely and shook it.

"Sui Wei."

It turned out he was Wei-long's cousin.

Since he had nowhere else to wait, I invited him inside.

"Would you like some tea?"

"Thank you," he replied with a smile.

A few minutes later, we were sitting across from each other in my living room.

"So... you're from Hong Kong?" he asked.

I nodded.

"Shì."

His eyes wandered around my apartment.

"Your place is nice."

"Does..." I hesitated, realizing I didn't even know my neighbor's full name. "Wei... know you're coming?"

"Oh, Wei-long?" he chuckled.

I nodded.

He shook his head.

"No. I wanted to surprise him."

The conversation flowed easily after that. We talked about Hong Kong, Dalian, and the freezing weather while waiting for Wei-long to return.

Suddenly, Yan Li's phone rang.

He answered with a grin.

"I'm just hanging out with your neighbor," he said into the phone.
I assumed he was talking to Wei-long.

"Relax, man. It's fine," he laughed.

I quietly sipped my tea while he finished the call.

After hanging up, he looked at me.

"That was him. He's on his way home."

Only a few minutes later, my doorbell rang.

I opened the door.

Wei-long stood in front of me, slightly out of breath, beads of sweat clinging to his forehead despite the cold weather.

"Where is he?" he asked immediately.

I raised an eyebrow and pointed toward the couch.
"There."

"Wei!" Yan Li called happily the moment he saw him.

Wei-long walked straight inside and wrapped his cousin in a tight hug.

It was the first time I'd seen him act so openly affectionate.

I couldn't help smiling.

"You're sweating so much," I said. "I told you not to wear so many layers in this kind of weather."

Yan Li laughed and looked at me.

"As if he has a choice. He's a famous act—"

"We're leaving," Wei-long interrupted quickly, laughing as he shot his cousin a warning look.
Then he turned to me with an awkward smile.

"I'll explain another time."

Before I could ask what his cousin had almost said, the two of them walked out of my apartment together, the door closing softly behind them.

I stood there for a moment, wondering what secret Wei-long had been trying so hard to hide.
_____________________

Wei-long poured himself a glass of water while Yan Li relaxed on the couch, scrolling through his phone.

"Auntie Lei wants you to come home for Sei's birthday," Yan Li said.

"I don't have time for that," Wei-long replied before taking a long drink.

"It's up to you." Yan Li shrugged.

He unlocked his phone and started typing.

"I'm texting Sui Hei. I'll pick her up on Saturday."

Wei-long didn't pay much attention. Yan Li had always been like that. Every family gathering seemed to include a different girl by his side.

So what was new?

He sat on the opposite end of the couch and handed Yan Li a bottle of beer.

"So... did you two get along?" Wei-long asked casually.

Yan Li looked up.

"Who?"

Wei-long pouted and pointed toward the apartment next door.

Realization crossed Yan Li's face.

"Oh... her."

He nodded.

"Yeah. She even told me why she came here."

Wei-long quietly lowered the volume of the television.

"Why?" he asked, unable to hide his curiosity.

Yan Li narrowed his eyes.

"Why are you suddenly so interested?"

Wei-long forced a shrug.

"That girl's known for partying every night."

"Yeah," Yan Li replied. "That was part of the reason she came here."

Wei-long leaned forward.

"What do you mean?"

Yan Li kept playing his game.

"Definitely..."

"It was because of me, wasn't it?" Wei-long interrupted confidently. "She came here to get my attention."

Yan Li stared at him for a second before letting out a loud laugh.

"You wish."

He shook his head.

"It's not you. She came here to prove that her friend and her ex-boyfriend in Hong Kong were wrong."

He lightly elbowed Wei-long.

"And besides..."

He paused just long enough to tease him.

"She looks up to you like you're her..."

Wei-long sighed.

"...Brother."

Yan Li burst into laughter.

Wei-long cleared his throat.

They'd only known each other for five hours, and somehow they'd already become close enough to talk about personal things.

"What exactly is she trying to prove?" he asked before taking a sip of his beer.

Yan Li lost his game and tossed his phone onto the couch.

"You're asking too many questions. Why don't you ask her yourself?"

Wei-long smirked.

"Do you want me to cancel your credit cards?"

Yan Li's confident expression disappeared instantly.

He grinned sheepishly.

"Okay, okay. I'm kidding."

He leaned back against the couch.

"Her best friend slept with her boyfriend."

Wei-long frowned.

"And?"

"The friend's excuse was that she couldn't resist him because he was too handsome... and she was drunk."

Wei-long scoffed.

"That's a pathetic excuse."

Yan Li nodded.

"The worst part? It happened the night before their wedding."

Wei-long froze.

"What?"

"So she came here to prove something to herself." Yan Li looked at him seriously for the first time.

"She wanted to prove that being attracted to someone isn't an excuse. That even if you're alone with a good-looking man, you can still choose not to cross the line."

Wei-long remained silent.

"She invites men into her room," Yan Li continued, "then spends hours talking to them until they eventually leave because they realize nothing is ever going to happen."

Suddenly...

The memory of last night flashed through Wei-long's mind.

Their lips touching.

Her leaning closer.

The warmth of her breath.

Then another memory surfaced—

A man hurrying out of her apartment the other night, looking embarrassed as he disappeared down the hallway.

Wei-long tightened his grip around the beer bottle.

If what Yan Li said was true...

Then why had she kissed me?

—————
Saturday had finally arrived.

The day Li had been counting down to all week was finally here. In just a few hours, he'd be boarding a flight to Dalian. But before that, there was someone he wanted to meet.

I accompanied him to the airport early that morning. His suitcase rolled beside him as we made our way through the bustling departure terminal, surrounded by travelers, the hum of conversations, and the occasional boarding announcements echoing overhead.

Li checked his phone for what had to be the twentieth time.

"She said she's almost here," he murmured, a small smile tugging at his lips as he read her latest message.

"The girl you've been texting?" I asked, even though I already knew the answer.
He nodded.

"There she is."

He waved behind me.

I chuckled at how quickly his face lit up.

Turning around, I instantly froze.

My hand tightened around the handle of the luggage, refusing to let go.

It was her.

She wore black jogger pants, a fitted black tank top, and a cropped gray jacket that gave her an effortlessly Western look. Her long strides carried her confidently across the pedestrian crossing as she waved at Li, a bright smile on her face.

Li smiled back and greeted her.

"Sue Wei."

She stopped in front of us, still smiling.

I cleared my throat.

Without a word, I grabbed Li by the wrist and pulled him a few steps away from her.

I shook my head.

"Sue Wei?" I repeated, lowering my voice.

He looked at me, confused.

"I told you before," he said. "She's coming with me."

He gently pulled his wrist free before walking back toward her.

I followed behind, still trying to process what I was seeing.

I was dressed in nothing more than a loose T-shirt, a cap, and a pair of sunglasses. Compared to her, I looked like I'd rolled out of bed.

Sue Wei looked at me with a puzzled expression.

"Mm," I muttered.

She rolled her eyes.

"See?" she said with a smirk. "It's better to wear something cooler during summer."

"Chaola?" Li reached for the luggage in my hand.

I tightened my grip and refused to let go.

The two of them exchanged confused looks while I stood there with one hand shoved into my pocket.
I cleared my throat again.

"What time is our flight?" I asked.

Both of them stared at me.

"Why?" I frowned. "You thought I wasn't tagging along?"

"I thought you weren't coming," Sue Wei replied.

Li scratched the back of his head.

"Wait... aren't you coming?"

I clicked my tongue.

"Who said I wasn't?"

Without waiting for either of them to respond, I started walking toward the airport entrance.
Behind me, the two of them remained rooted to the spot, exchanging bewildered glances before hurrying after me.

Wait...

I don't have anything with me.

The thought hit me like a truck.

No luggage. No extra clothes. Not even a toothbrush. I had only come to accompany Li to the airport, and somehow I had just invited myself onto an international flight.

I'll figure it out later.

I shoved both hands into my pockets and kept walking as if nothing had happened.

Behind me, Li and Sue Wei exchanged confused glances before hurrying to catch up.

I stole a glance at Li as we walked toward our boarding gate. He and Sue Wei were chatting so comfortably that it felt like they had known each other for years instead of meeting for the first time.
I let out a quiet sigh.

Too late to back out now.

When boarding was announced, passengers quickly formed a line. I adjusted the strap of the small sling bag hanging from my shoulder—the only thing I had brought with me—and followed behind Li and Sue Wei.

The jet bridge stretched ahead, its windows revealing our aircraft waiting on the tarmac. Every step forward made the trip feel more real.

Li looked over his shoulder.

"You sure you're okay?"

I nodded.

"I've made it this far. Might as well keep going."

He laughed before continuing down the jet bridge.

A flight attendant greeted us with a warm smile as we stepped inside the cabin. The cool air smelled faintly of coffee and fresh linen. I instructed the ground crew that i prayed that no one will take a picture of him inside the plane.

Rows of passengers were already lifting their bags into the overhead bins while others searched for their seats.

"Looks like we're in this row," Li said, checking our boarding passes.

Sue Wei slid into the window seat and looked outside, her eyes sparkling with excitement. They were sitting next to each other.

I coughed again. I purchased a business class.

She looked at me, "Where's your seat?" She asked.

Li was laughing beside her, " You don't mind that idiot. He purchased the business class.

I look at him like I was going to kill him.

After boarding, we went our separate ways.

Li and Sue Wei followed the signs toward the economy cabin, their seats side by side just as they had planned.

Meanwhile, I turned left into the business class section.

The cabin was quieter than the rest of the plane. The seats were wide enough to stretch out in, with plenty of legroom and privacy. I settled into my seat, placed my sling bag beside me, and fastened my seatbelt.

Comfortable.

Too comfortable.

I glanced toward the curtain separating business class from economy.

Those two are probably talking nonstop by now.

The image of Li and Sue Wei laughing together kept creeping into my mind. They had only just met in person, yet they already looked so comfortable around each other.

I clicked my tongue.

Why am I even thinking about them?

Pulling out my phone, I opened my chat with Li.

Me: Come to business class for a minute.

A few seconds later, the typing indicator appeared.

Li: Why?

Me: Just come.

I locked my phone and leaned back, waiting.

Sure enough, a moment later, I spotted Li peeking through the curtain with a confused expression, looking around until our eyes met.
________________________

Someone was shaking my shoulder gently as I slept.

I slowly opened one eye, still half-lost between dreams and reality.
It was him.

Wei Long was standing beside my seat, looking down at me. His eyes met mine, and for a moment, I just stared at him, trying to wake myself up.

"Hey" I murmured.

He chuckled softly.

"Look at the window."

He pointed toward the glass beside me.

Still feeling drowsy, I sat up and leaned closer to the window.

The moment I looked down, I forgot about my sleepiness.

Dalian slowly came into view beneath the clouds.

The first thing that caught my attention was the coastline stretching endlessly along the edge of the city. The deep blue sea shimmered under the sunlight, meeting the land in a perfect line. From above, the waves looked calm and peaceful, as if the city was resting quietly beside the ocean.

The buildings appeared smaller from this height, arranged neatly between wide roads and patches of green. The city had a unique charm—modern skyscrapers standing alongside older European-style architecture, creating a beautiful blend of history and progress.

I could see the tree-lined streets, the busy roads filled with tiny moving cars, and the hills surrounding parts of the city. Dalian looked different from the places I had been before.

It wasn't just a city of buildings and crowds.

It felt open, refreshing, and connected to nature.

I rested my forehead lightly against the window, watching as the plane continued its descent.

So this is Dalian.

For a trip I never planned to take, I couldn't help but feel a strange sense of excitement as the city welcomed us below.

I turned toward Li, wanting him to see the view that had captured my attention.

But the moment I turned my face, my heart skipped a beat.

Wei Long was already leaning toward the window, his eyes fixed on the city below. Somehow, our movements brought us closer than either of us expected. His face was only a short distance from mine, close enough that I suddenly became aware of every little detail—the quiet warmth of his presence, the way the sunlight from the window brushed across his face.

For a moment, neither of us moved.

Then his gaze slowly drifted away from the view outside and met mine.

Everything around us seemed to fade.

The sound of the plane, the conversations of other passengers, even the announcement playing in the background—all of it became distant.

His eyes held mine for a little longer than they should have.

And I forgot what I was about to say.

Before the silence between us could grow any deeper, a flight attendant's voice broke through the cabin.

"Please fasten your seat belts. We are now arriving."

I quickly looked away, feeling my heartbeat become louder than the engines beneath us.

I leaned back into my seat and fastened my seat belt, trying to act as if nothing had happened.
But the warmth in my chest remained.

And for the rest of the descent, I couldn't stop thinking about the way he had looked at me.

After hours of traveling, everything suddenly felt real. The city I had only seen from above was now right in front of me—the unfamiliar streets, the different surroundings, and the place where Wei Long had grown up.

I followed behind him as we collected our luggage and made our way toward the arrival hall.

Someone was already waiting for us.

A man standing near the entrance lifted his hand and waved when he spotted Wei Long.
"Long!"

Wei Long's face immediately lit up.

His cousin had come to pick us up.

They greeted each other warmly, laughing as they exchanged words and caught up after being apart for some time.

Then my attention shifted to the woman standing beside him.

She was quiet, waiting patiently. She had fair skin, a slim figure, and a graceful appearance. Unlike Wei Long, who carried a more familiar and relaxed presence, she seemed gentle and composed. There was something about her that made her stand out.

I noticed the way Wei Long looked at her.

It was subtle.

Almost unnoticeable.

But there was a small pause between them—a moment where the past seemed to quietly return.

"This is..." I waited for him to introduce her.

Wei Long hesitated for a second.

Then he said her name.

"Yunna."

She smiled softly as she looked at me.

There was something gentle about her expression, something familiar and warm. She carried herself with a quiet confidence, and I could understand why someone would remember her.

Li leaned closer to me and whispered in my ear.

"It was his first love."

I nodded slowly as I took in his words.

First love.

Those two words stayed in my mind longer than they should have.

"Chu Yan, Yunna... this is San Wei."

Wei Long paused for a moment before continuing my introduction. His eyes briefly shifted toward me, as if he was choosing his words carefully.

I reached out my hand and shook theirs.

"I just tagged along to see this city," I explained with a small smile. "We barely know each other. We're just neighbors."

They nodded politely.

But the moment those words left my mouth, I noticed something change in Wei Long's expression.
He looked at me differently.

I couldn't tell if it was confusion, surprise, or something else.

Before I could think too much about it, Li stepped forward and helped me with my luggage.
"Let me get that," he said.

I let him take the heavier bag as we walked toward the exit.

Behind us, Wei Long and Yunna followed together, talking quietly.

I glanced back for a moment.

Seeing them side by side, I suddenly wondered how much of Wei Long's past was still living in this city.

By the time we arrived at the restaurant, it was already five in the evening.

The sun was slowly sinking over the fish port, painting the sky with shades of orange and gold. The air carried the familiar scent of the sea—the salty breeze from the harbor mixing with the smell of fresh seafood being prepared inside the restaurant.

Wei Long's family restaurant stood close to the port, where boats could be seen returning from the water and people gathered for their evening meals. It wasn't a flashy place, but it had a warmth that immediately made it feel special.

The moment we stepped inside, several familiar voices called out.

Wei Long's relatives were already there.

They greeted him with excitement, welcoming him home after his time away. Their smiles, laughter, and the way they naturally surrounded him showed how close they were.

I stood slightly behind, quietly observing.

This was another side of Wei Long that I had never seen.

Back in Shanghai, he was just my neighbor—the person I happened to spend time with, the person I never expected to become this familiar with.

But here, in his family's restaurant near the fish port, he was someone everyone knew and cared about.

He belonged here.

One of his relatives came over and greeted us warmly. Li helped carry our luggage inside while Sue Wei followed behind, looking around curiously.

I looked around the restaurant, taking in the busy kitchen, the seafood dishes being prepared, and the family members moving comfortably around each other.

This wasn't just a place where they worked.

It was a place filled with Wei Long's memories.

The next morning, we gathered at Wei Long's family's home for a meal.

His mother welcomed me as if I were a precious guest.

She smiled warmly at me as she placed food in front of me, speaking in Mandarin that I couldn't fully understand. Despite the language barrier, her kindness was obvious. She placed a piece of fish on my plate and served me a bowl of soup, still smiling as she encouraged me to eat.

I lowered my head politely and thanked her.

Luckily, Li was sitting beside me.

"She said, 'Taste it. This was Wei Long's favorite soup,'" Li translated quietly.

I glanced at the bowl in front of me and smiled.

"Really?"

Li nodded.

I took a sip.

It was warm and comforting.

Wei Long's family had welcomed me so naturally that I almost forgot I was a stranger in their home. Even though the wind outside was cold and strong from the nearby sea, the warmth inside the house made me feel at ease.

The night passed with laughter, conversations, and endless dishes being shared.

By the time everyone settled down, we stayed at their home for the night.

I was given my own room.

After taking a shower, I stood by the window, rubbing my hair dry with a towel. The cool sea breeze rushed in as I opened the window, carrying the familiar scent of the ocean.

I looked out at the darkness beyond.

The sound of the waves was calming.

Until I noticed two figures outside.

Wei Long.

And Yunna.

They were standing together, talking quietly.

My movements stopped.

I leaned against the wall beside the window, careful not to make any sound.

I shouldn't have been listening.

But curiosity got the better of me.

I tried harder to hear their conversation and quickly opened my translator, hoping to understand their words.
Then I heard Yunna's voice.

"I brought your old clothes," she said. "These were my favorites from the clothes you used to wear before."

There was a pause.

Wei Long's voice followed, calm and gentle.

"You didn't have to do that. But... thank you."
He looked at her.

"I should walk you home."

Morning arrived quietly in Dalian.

I woke up to the sound of the sea breeze brushing against the window and the faint noises of the city slowly coming alive. Unlike Shanghai, where mornings always felt rushed and crowded, Dalian had a calmer rhythm.

The sunlight slipped through the curtains, painting the unfamiliar room in a soft golden glow.
For a few seconds, I forgot where I was.

Then I remembered.

Dalian.

I sat up and looked around the room. The events from yesterday replayed in my mind—the flight, the view of the coastline from above, meeting Wei Long's relatives, and stepping into a world that belonged to him.

A world I was never supposed to be part of.

I walked toward the window and opened it slightly.

The cold sea breeze touched my face.

From where I stood, I could feel the presence of the ocean nearby. The sound of waves, the fresh air, and the quiet streets below made the city feel peaceful.

A knock came from the door.

"Breakfast," Li called from outside.

I looked back at the room, then smiled faintly.

Another day in Dalian had begun.

I had no idea what this city would bring, but somehow, I already felt like I was slowly becoming part of it.

I walked downstairs and found everyone already busy in the dining area.

The table was filled with dishes, and Wei Long's relatives were moving around, preparing breakfast and chatting with one another. The moment they noticed me, their faces immediately brightened.
I smiled and greeted them.

Li waved me over.

"Sit here," he said, pointing to the seat beside him.

I followed his instruction and sat down.

While everyone continued preparing the meal, my eyes wandered toward the kitchen.

Wei Long was there.

He walked out carrying a pair of chopsticks, heading toward the dining table. He was wearing a beige shirt with Beatles prints across it.

So that was the shirt.

The one Yunna liked.

I remembered what she had said last night.

These were my favorites from your clothes before.

I looked at him for a moment.

If I was the one who told him that this kind of shirt looked good on him, he probably wouldn't have listened.

His hair was messy, falling naturally over his forehead.

Somehow, it suited him.

Wei Long looked up and noticed me watching.

Instead of saying anything, he simply tilted his head and pouted, gesturing toward the empty seat beside him.

I rolled my eyes.

He looked confused when I deliberately sat beside Li instead.

I didn't know why I did that.

Maybe I just wanted to annoy him.

But even after I sat down, I could still feel his eyes on me.

Throughout breakfast, he kept glancing in my direction.

What was his problem?

I tried my best to avoid his gaze and focused on my food instead.

Then his mother brought out another dish.

A large plate of hot fish was placed in the middle of the table. As she opened the cover, steam rose from the pan, spreading the rich aroma throughout the room.

My eyes unintentionally moved toward Wei Long as the smoke slowly disappeared.
At that exact moment, our eyes met.

I immediately cleared my throat and coughed.

"You okay?" Li asked, holding my wrist with concern.

I quickly nodded.

"Yeah. It just smells delicious," I replied with a smile.

Before I could reach for it, Wei Long picked up some fish and placed a small portion onto my plate.
"You should eat this," he said.

I looked at him briefly before nodding.

"Thank you."

After breakfast, I went straight to the kitchen.

I wanted to help his mother wash the dishes, but she immediately stopped me, shaking her head with a smile.

"Ma."

I heard Wei Long's voice from behind.

He spoke to his mother in Mandarin, the words too fast for me to understand.

His mother smiled before walking back toward the dining area, leaving the two of us alone in the kitchen.

I stood there quietly, tugging my hair behind my ears.

I didn't turn around.

I didn't know why, but suddenly facing him felt difficult.

Then I heard his footsteps approaching.

A second later, he stood in front of me and gently took over the dishes.

"Wouldn't you tell me that it's better to wear something like this during summer?" he murmured.
I looked at him.

Oh.

So he was bragging about it.

I crossed my arms.

"Too old. Looks like trash," I replied.

He stared at me, clearly offended.

"What's your problem?"

I opened my mouth to answer, but stopped.

His eyes caught my attention.

There was something about the way he looked at me—something soft, almost like he was trying to understand me.

For a moment, I forgot what I wanted to say.

I quickly cleared my throat.

"Nothing," I said.

I looked away.

"I just don't like it."

A small pause.

"I like the ones you wore in Shanghai better."

The moment the words left my mouth, I realized how honest they sounded.

After spending a few days in Dalian, I finally understood why Wei Long spoke of this place with such quiet affection. His family welcomed me with open arms, treating me as though I had always belonged among them.

Their home was filled with warm laughter, playful teasing, and conversations that stretched late into the evening. There was nothing extravagant about the way they lived, yet there was a happiness that money could never buy.

Their love for one another made even an ordinary dinner feel special.

Being here felt unreal, like I had somehow wandered into someone else's beautiful dream.

"Gege Wei!"

A group of children came running toward us, each holding a colorful bubble wand. Tiny bubbles floated into the air, catching the afternoon sunlight before drifting away with the sea breeze.

Wei Long's face instantly softened.

He crouched down to their height and ruffled the hair of the smallest boy with a gentle grin.
"Shénme?" he asked warmly.

I watched him from a few steps away.

Today, he wasn't dressed like the successful businessman everyone knew. He wore nothing more than a simple white Puma T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers. His hair wasn't styled with gel for once. It fell naturally across his forehead, making him look younger—almost like the carefree boy who had grown up on these streets.

The little boy pointed in my direction.

"Gēge, wǒ māma gàosu wǒ, tā shì nǐ de qīzi."

Both of us instinctively followed the child's finger.

Standing several meters away was a woman in her forties. She smiled brightly before giving Wei Long a friendly wave.

I blinked in confusion.

Was she one of his relatives?

Wei Long simply returned her smile with a polite nod.

Maybe they just knew each other.

"What did he say?" I asked.

The children laughed and ran off to continue chasing bubbles.

Wei Long slowly stood, brushing the dust from his hands. For a brief moment, he looked away from me, his gaze fixed somewhere across the street instead of meeting mine.

"He said..." He paused for the smallest second. "His mom is taking care of them."

I simply nodded.

"Oh."

We continued wandering through the city.

Wei Long became my personal tour guide, pointing at every corner with quiet excitement.

"That bakery used to sell the sweetest red bean buns."

"My friends and I climbed that wall when we skipped class."

"We almost got caught stealing peaches from that house."

Every place carried a memory.

Every street reminded him of another version of himself.

I couldn't help smiling as I watched him relive pieces of his childhood, his eyes sparkling with a happiness I had rarely seen.

Eventually, we reached the shoreline.

The sea stretched endlessly before us, its waves rolling gently against the rocks below. We climbed onto a large boulder overlooking the water and sat side by side.

The salty breeze tangled my hair, carrying with it the distant cries of seagulls and the scent of the ocean.

Wei Long bent down, picked up a flat stone, and skipped it across the surface.

"Back then," he said quietly, watching the stone bounce across the water, "we used to throw rocks here every afternoon."

Another stone left his fingers.

"We laughed like tomorrow didn't exist."

His smile lingered, but there was something bittersweet hidden beneath it.

I tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear as the wind brushed against my face.

"So... a lot of childhood memories, huh?"

He nodded, tossing another stone into the sea.

"I honestly don't know which one was my favorite," he murmured.

"Wei-wei!"

A familiar voice called from behind us.

We both turned.

Yunna was making her way along the shoreline, waving enthusiastically.

Even from a distance, she looked breathtaking.

The afternoon sunlight wrapped around her like gold, and the breeze danced through her long hair. Her flowing dress moved effortlessly with each step, making her look almost ethereal.

Several fishermen nearby glanced up as she passed, unable to hide their admiration.

She smiled as though the entire beach belonged to her.

I turned back toward Wei Long.

A playful smile tugged at my lips.

"Isn't she your favorite memory?" I teased.

The words had barely left my mouth before I froze.

My breath caught.

Wei Long was suddenly much closer than I expected.

Only a few inches separated us.

Close enough for me to notice the tiny freckles scattered across his nose.

Close enough to see the reflection of the sea dancing in his dark eyes.

My heartbeat stumbled before racing wildly against my ribs.

The sound of the waves faded.

The voices around us disappeared.

All I could hear was the frantic pounding inside my chest.

I swallowed hard and quickly cleared my throat, forcing myself to look anywhere but into his eyes.

I polished your scene while keeping your original plot, romantic tension, and character dynamics. I focused on making the emotions clearer, improving pacing, and adding more vivid descriptions so readers can picture the moments.
Since Yunna was there, I stood up as my phone suddenly began ringing.
I glanced at the screen.
It was my supervisor.
"San Wei, you should come back sooner. The boss is really angry right now," she said through the phone.
I looked at Wei Long.
He was watching me closely, his eyes silently asking if something was wrong.
I shook my head and forced a small smile before ending the call.
"It's nothing," I said.
But the truth was, my thoughts had already drifted back to the office.

When we arrived home, his mother was busy preparing dinner in the kitchen. The aroma of freshly cooked food filled the entire house, making the place feel warm and familiar.

His father suddenly called out from the living room.

"Can someone buy some soft drinks from the grocery store?"

Since Wei Long was still taking a shower, I immediately volunteered.

"I'll go."

I grabbed my wallet and stepped outside.

The evening air in Dalian was cool against my skin. As I walked toward the grocery store, I found myself thinking about work again.

Maybe I really should return sooner.

Maybe I had stayed here longer than I should have.

Lost in my thoughts, I didn't notice the three girls approaching me until they were already standing in front of me.

They surrounded me.

They were taller than me, prettier than me, and seemed to be around my age.

"Hi," I greeted them politely.

They didn't smile.

Instead, they crossed their arms.

"Nǐ shì shéi? Wèishénme gēn Wèi Lóng zài yìqǐ? Nǐ zhège húndàn!"

I froze.

I took a small step back, trying to understand what they were saying.

"I'm sorry... I don't understand," I said helplessly.

One of the girls pulled out her phone and showed me a picture.

Wei Long.

Oh.

So this was about him.

They weren't here because of me.

They were here because of Wei Long.

But what was their problem with him?

Did he owe them something?

Did he hurt them?

My mind started running wild.

What am I supposed to do?

I pointed at the picture and tried to explain.

"Gēge... wǒ mèimei."

Brother. Little sister.

The words came out awkwardly, but it was the only thing I could think of.

Then suddenly—

"Leave her alone."

Wei Long's voice cut through the air.

I turned around.

He was standing there.

And for the first time since I met him, I saw real anger on his face.

Not annoyance.

Not frustration.

Anger.

"Wei," I breathed out in relief.

He walked toward me and immediately grabbed my wrist, pulling me slightly behind him.

"Nǐ wèishénme bǎ tā dǔ zài zhèlǐ?"

His voice was cold.

The girls looked surprised.

The girl standing in the middle quickly explained:

"Zhège nǚhái gēn yúfūmen shuō tā shì nǐ mèimei, kě wǒmen dōu zhīdào, tā qíshí shì nǐ zuì fēngkuáng de fěnsī zhī yī."

She sounded frustrated but not angry.

Wei Long sighed.

"Huí jiā qù. Bùguǎn tā shì shéi, dōu bù guān nǐ de shì."

Go home. Whoever she is, it has nothing to do with you.

I stared at him.

They clearly knew each other.

But why?

Had he broken their hearts before?

With that face of his, maybe he had a long list of people who fell for him.

I wrapped my fingers around his wrist gently.

The girl looked at Wei Long with concern.

"Zhīdào wǒmen zhǐshì xiǎng bǎohù nǐ. Nǐ shì zhè zuò chéngshì de rén, wǒmen xīwàng nǐ néng dāi de shūfu yìdiǎn, zhèyàng xià cì hái néng zài jiàn dào nǐ."

We only want to protect you. You belong to this city. We want you to feel comfortable here, so we can see you again next time.

Wei Long's expression softened slightly.

"Tā méiyǒu èyì."

She means no harm.

The girls exchanged glances and finally nodded.

After apologizing to both of us, they left.

We continued walking home.

"You shouldn't break their hearts," I said casually.

Wei Long glanced at me.

"How many hearts did that handsome face break?"

I teased him.

He ignored me.

His hair was still damp from his shower, small drops of water sliding down his face as he walked beneath the streetlights.

"I think the girl on the left is prettier than Yunna," I added.

Still nothing.

"Isn't it amazing how good I am at having conversations with myself?" I said sarcastically.
He suddenly stopped.

Then he turned around.

"Why are you walking alone here?"

His voice was serious.

I blinked.

"I wanted to, but—"

"You shouldn't be walking alone."

He interrupted me.

His brows were slightly furrowed.

I was surprised by his reaction.

Maybe he wasn't angry.

Maybe he was just worried.

"I already did," I murmured, crossing my arms.

He clicked his tongue.

"Stone-headed," he whispered.

"Oh?"

I looked at him.

"So now you're the one who's angry?"

I stepped closer.

"First, I don't even know those girls. I didn't do anything to them."

"Even so, you shouldn't be alone."

"Why?"

He looked directly into my eyes.

For a moment, he didn't answer.

Then he coughed lightly.

"This place is far from Hong Kong."

I smiled.

"This place is better."

I paused.

"The food is better. The people are better. The cost of living is better. The air is better."

I looked at him teasingly.

"And there are more handsome boys."

He stared at me seriously.

Then he asked:

"Is that why you told the fishermen I'm your boyfriend?"

My smile disappeared.

I cleared my throat.

I was caught.

A memory flashed back.

That morning by the shore, when I went fishing alone.

A fisherman had shouted at me, saying outsiders weren't allowed to fish there.

When I looked around, there were too many of them.

I had panicked.

So I immediately told them Wei Long was my boyfriend.

That was the only reason they let me stay.

I bit my lower lip.

"Ahhhh."

"Ahh?"

Wei Long took a step closer.

I looked away.

"You."

Another step.

"Told them."

Another step.

"I am your—"

I stepped backward.

"I only said that because otherwise they would have cornered me like those girls!"

He raised an eyebrow.

A small smirk appeared on his lips.

"You stone-headed."

That evening, Wei Long's uncles came over to the house to celebrate his return.

They set up tables outside, lit the barbecue grill, and filled the night with the smell of smoke and freshly cooked food. Their voices carried through the open windows as they laughed and shared stories.

One of his uncles called out to him.

"Wei! Come have a drink with us!"

Wei Long looked at me.

Not at his family.

At me.

Like he was silently asking for permission.

I couldn't help but laugh.

I nodded.

"You go, dumbass," I teased.

A small smile appeared on his face before he walked outside.

For the next few hours, I could hear him laughing with his family. His voice blended with theirs, warm and familiar.

It sounded like he belonged there.

And somehow, watching him reconnect with everyone made me happy too.

Later that night, his mother came into my room.

"Are you okay?" she asked softly, concern written all over her face.
I smiled.

"Of course, Auntie. I'm okay."

She looked at me for a moment before gently closing the door behind her.
"If you need anything, you can always ask me."

Her words stayed in my mind.

After taking a shower, I dried my hair and sat quietly on the bed.

A few minutes later, someone knocked on my door.

I assumed it was Auntie.

I opened it without hesitation.

But it wasn't her.

It was him.

Wei Long.

His cheeks were slightly flushed from the alcohol, and his steps were unsteady. His usual calm expression was replaced by something softer.

Something vulnerable.

His eyes looked like they were searching for something.

Searching for me.

"Nǐ bù xiǎng wǒ ma?"

Didn't you miss me?

I couldn't understand the words, but somehow, I understood the look in his eyes.

I sighed and helped him walk toward the bed.

"You're drunk," I whispered.

He didn't answer.

He just stared at me.

For someone who was barely able to stand straight, his gaze was surprisingly clear.
Then he murmured:

"Dōu wàng le ba, wǒ yòu bú shì nǐ zhēnzhèng de gēge."

Forget it all. I'm not your real brother anyway.

My heart stopped for a second.

Before I could process what he meant, he leaned closer.

My eyes widened.

My heartbeat became impossible to ignore.

I should have moved.

I should have said something.

But instead, I froze.

The distance between us disappeared, leaving only silence.

When we finally pulled away, we just looked at each other.

Neither of us spoke.

I cleared my throat and looked away.

"Fuck" I muttered, rubbing the back of my neck.

Why was he making everything so confusing?

Before I could calm myself down, he gently turned my face back toward him.

His voice was barely a whisper.

"Make me."

My thoughts completely disappeared.

Everything felt blurry.

The only thing I could focus on was him.

And then—

A sudden knock.

The door opened.

I immediately pulled away and pushed Wei Long back onto the bed.

Standing there was his cousin.

He blinked several times, clearly struggling to understand what he was seeing.
"Is this my room?" he asked drunkenly.

He looked between us, completely confused.

———————

Wei Long slept on the bed that night, while I slept on the floor.

I barely got any rest.

Every time I closed my eyes, my mind replayed the same moment over and over again.
The kiss.

The way he looked at me.

The words he whispered.

I kept trying to convince myself that it was because he was drunk.

That it meant nothing.

But my heart didn't believe me.

I woke up earlier than usual, unable to sleep any longer.

When I stepped out of the room, I saw his mother preparing her market bag near the door.
"Auntie, where are you going?" I asked.

She turned around and smiled warmly.

"I'm going to the wet market nearby. Would you like to come with me? Li was going to drive us."
I nodded.

Maybe a walk would help clear my mind.

The wet market was unlike anything I had seen before.

It was an old-fashioned market, filled with the sounds of vendors calling out, customers bargaining, and the smell of fresh seafood mixed with morning air.

Li walked behind us while Wei Long's mother carefully picked out the best fish, inspecting each one with the familiarity of someone who had done it for years.

"I didn't know wet markets were still used these days," I said.

She glanced at Li, silently asking him to translate.

He immediately did.

She smiled as she held up a fish.

"Of course. Wei only just came home. He must miss the way I cook this fish."

I looked at her.

"Wei has been gone for a long time?"

Her smile faded slightly.

"Yeah. He hasn't come home since my youngest daughter passed away."

I froze.

His sister?

Wei had never mentioned having a sister.

"Oh... I'm sorry," I said softly.

She gently patted my hand.

"Don't worry. It has been a long time."

I hesitated before asking:

"So... he didn't come back because he didn't want to remember his sister?"

She looked at me for a second.

Then she suddenly laughed.

"You're funny."

I looked confused.

Before she could explain, Li interrupted.

"He didn't come back because he's one of the busiest actors in China."

I turned to him.

"Actor?"

Li nodded, looking just as confused as I was.

"You didn't know?"

I quickly looked away.

"I know," I mumbled.

But I didn't.

Not really.

They continued walking ahead.

I stayed behind.

My mind was struggling to process everything I had just heard.

"Li."

He stopped when I called his name.

I glanced at Auntie, who was already a little farther ahead.

"Auntie, you go first. I just need to ask Li something."

She smiled and continued walking.

Once she was far enough, I turned back to him.

"Li... you told me he wouldn't come here. You said he never wanted to return."

He avoided my eyes.

"Why did he come?"

"I don't know," he answered quietly. "He just did."

I grabbed his wrist.

"No. Answer me."

My voice became serious.

"Did you tell him?"

Li finally looked at me.

"Tell him what?"

I stared at him.

"Did you tell him why I was drinking with other guys every night?"
His expression changed.

A pause.

A hesitation.

Then—

"I think..."

He stopped.

That was enough.

My heart sank.

So he knew.

He knew everything.

The nights I spent drinking weren't because I didn't care.

They were because I was trying to prove something to myself.

That a woman could control herself.

That if a woman stayed restrained, a man wouldn't fall for her.

A memory flashed through my mind. The only memory that I exempt from the plan because I thought, it wouldn't matter.

That night when I wasn't completely drunk.

The night when I wanted to kiss him.

The night I actually did.

And afterward, I pretended it never happened.

Because I was afraid.

Afraid that if I admitted that I was wrong, I would have no reason to stay.

Afraid that I would leave.

But I stayed

For him.

But he knew.

He knew all along.

And he still let me believe otherwise.

He lied.

I had spent so much time trying to prove myself wrong.

Trying to convince myself that I was only imagining everything.

But once again...

I was the one being lied to.

I excused myself and stepped outside.

My hands felt strangely cold as I pulled out my phone.

I searched his name.

At first, I wasn't even sure what to type.

Then I remembered.

Wei Long.

I tried different combinations until finally—

There he was.

His face appeared on my screen.

A famous actor in China.

A successful man.

A celebrity.

Someone whose world was completely different from mine.

The articles.

The photos.

The interviews.

The luxury lifestyle.

Everything stared back at me.

My heartbeat became louder.

So this was Wei Long.

Not just the man who walked beside me through Dalian.

Not just the man who laughed with his family.

Not just the man who kissed me.

He was someone I never knew.

I immediately called a cab.

When I returned to the house, Wei Long was still asleep.

Peaceful.

Unaware.

I stood there for a moment, watching him.

For a second, I wanted to wake him up.

I wanted to ask him why.

Why did he hide everything from me?

Why did he let me believe he was just an ordinary person?

But I couldn't.

I quietly grabbed my luggage.

Packed my things.

And walked away.

Without saying goodbye.

Without waking him.

Without letting him know that my heart had already broken.

again.

Option 1: San Wei explores Dalian with Wei Long's family (warm development)
After breakfast, Wei Long's mother asks San Wei to join them for a walk around the fish port.
* San Wei sees how loved Wei Long is by his family.
* She notices small things about him that she never saw in Shanghai.
* Chu Yan and Li tease her because she keeps watching Wei Long without realizing it.
* Wei Long quietly takes care of her (buying her a drink because she doesn't like the cold wind, giving her his jacket, etc.).
This develops the romance naturally

#1
I watched as an old fisherman walked in and immediately called Wei Long's name.
"You finally came back!"

Scene 3: Children in the neighborhood know him
San Wei sees another side of him.
* Kids run toward him.
* He buys them snacks.
* He remembers their names.
* He kneels down to talk to them.
Moment:
"Wei Long ge!"
Several children ran toward him.
I watched him crouch down and laugh with them.
His smile was different.
Softer.
Warmer.
It made me realize that Wei Long wasn't someone who was difficult to approach.
He was someone who had been loved by many people for a long

Bb