Upon returning residence, Gu Xiuyi discovered Ji Ruan engaged in a video name with Han Xiaolin. An attention-grabbing pocket book on the desk, with boldly written pink letters, grabbed Gu Xiuyi’s consideration: 

“A Checklist of Important Objects for Boarding Faculty!” 

The scale, colour, and prominence of these phrases overwhelmed Gu Xiuyi, inflicting a momentary dizziness. In the meantime, Ji Ruan, the wrongdoer, sat in pajamas on a chair, hair in disarray, and blinked with a bewildered expression. 

“How did you come again?” Ji Ruan stood and approached Gu Xiuyi, poking his arm with a finger, as if to substantiate his existence. 

Wow, muscular, what a pleasant physique. 

Gu Xiuyi firmly grasped the limp fingers of the possible school scholar and wrenched them away. “Do you need to stay on campus?” 

His expression and tone remained unchanged, however Ji Ruan failed to note something peculiar and easily beamed. “In fact.” 

What an inexplicable attract campus life appears to own. Even a baby’s dimples overflow with sweetness. 

Gu Xiuyi opened and closed his lips twice, momentarily confused. 

Ji Ruan’s unruly hair stood out conspicuously, catching Gu Xiuyi’s consideration a number of instances, making it not possible to utterly ignore. “You have not combed your hair but?” 

As he spoke, Gu Xiuyi reached out and tried to press down the unruly strands, however the tender hair stubbornly resisted his efforts. 

“I washed it after I awakened,” Ji Ruan felt a tinge of annoyance and took a step again. “However I can not assist it if my hair curls up after sleeping…” 

Gu Xiuyi: “…” 

By no means thoughts, hair just isn’t the main focus proper now. 

Gu Xiuyi glanced at Ji Ruan’s pale complexion, noticing his listless lips, and realized he was hungry once more—having woken up early with out consuming, and now making video calls with classmates? 

Gu Xiuyi tapped on the desk and gestured towards the telephone with a raised chin. “Is no matter you are discussing so essential that it must be stated now?” 

Ji Ruan turned to have a look at the telephone. The massive face of Han Xiaolin, their chatting classmate, was mirrored on the display screen. Ji Ruan shortly turned the telephone away. “Han Xiaolin has in depth expertise residing on campus, so I wished to ask him for recommendation. However he is at present in army coaching, with restricted time and a heavy workload, so it is sensible for me to collaborate with him.” 

Good, now again on observe. 

With one hand resting on the desk, Gu Xiuyi turned the telephone again round and delivered a short message to the surprised Han Xiaolin, who seemed to be an brisk younger man clad in army camouflage. “Classmate Han Xiaolin, I am taking Ji Ruan away now. You’ll be able to focus in your army coaching.” 

With out ready for Han Xiaolin’s surprise-filled response, Gu Xiuyi abruptly ended the video name. Whereas decreasing his head, he unintentionally caught a glimpse of the minute particulars on Ji Ruan’s faculty listing. 

This man even is aware of which colour washbasin to decide on! 

With out saying a phrase, Gu Xiuyi took Ji Ruan downstairs, fearing he may turn into dizzy whereas climbing the steps. He tightly held Ji Ruan’s hand. 

Ji Ruan adopted alongside, perplexed. “Do you may have one thing to say?” 

Gu Xiuyi spoke in a deep voice, “We have to have a severe dialog.” 

Two minutes later, on the dinner desk. 

Gu Xiuyi and Ji Ruan sat throughout from one another. Mr. Gu did not even have time to alter out of his swimsuit. Leaning again in his chair along with his legs crossed, he exuded his years of expertise in enterprise conferences and a commanding presence that reworked the elegant marble eating desk right into a negotiation desk. 

As for his negotiating companion, a curly-haired potential school scholar named Ji, his spherical eyes had been fastened solely on the steaming meat buns and soy milk in entrance of him—his breakfast. 

Ji Ruan swallowed onerous and reached out to seize a bun. Nonetheless, as quickly as his fingers made contact with the freshly steamed dough, he shortly withdrew his hand—it was scalding sizzling, having simply been launched from the steamer. 

Blowing on his fingertips, Ji Ruan shifted his gaze to Gu Xiuyi. “Why do not you begin first.” 

It is higher to get it over with shortly earlier than I begin. 

Gu Xiuyi straightened his posture, interlacing his fingers on the desk, and emitted an air of seriousness. “What’s your cause for eager to stay on campus?” 

Ji Ruan was greatly surprised by Gu Xiuyi’s formal demeanor, immediately assuming that this individual was right here to barter a contract with him. 

He blinked. “Everybody does it, did not you reside on campus while you had been a freshman?” 

“That is totally different.” Gu Xiuyi coldly said, using double requirements and dismissing the primary cause. 

Ji Ruan, puzzled, tilted his head with a smile. “How is it totally different?” 

Accepting the espresso Aunt Zhao handed over, Gu Xiuyi gently positioned it on the desk. “You have got well being points, and it will not be protected so that you can stay on campus.” 

Ji Ruan frowned, refuting, “Why wouldn’t it be unsafe?” 

“College dorms have bunk beds and desks, and you must climb stairs. What if you happen to turn into dizzy and fall?” Gu Xiuyi appealed to feelings and reasoned, “Moreover, you may have a uncommon blood sort. Any accidents you maintain might end in extreme bleeding.” 

“Nicely…” Ji Ruan lowered his gaze, showing to significantly think about Gu Xiuyi’s phrases. 

The meat buns had cooled down, so he wrapped them in paper and commenced to nibble slowly. One of many meat buns was about half the scale of his face. 

“However I—” Ji Ruan started talking incomprehensibly and ceased as quickly as he began. 

Each time he had one thing in his mouth, he discovered it not possible to speak. He gently lined his mouth along with his fingertips, lowered his gaze, and chewed slowly. 

Gu Xiuyi could not tear his eyes away from Ji Ruan’s face—so refined and well mannered. 

He pushed the soy milk towards Ji Ruan. “Drink it.” 

To his shock, Ji Ruan took a very long time to chew a mouthful of buns. By the point he completed swallowing and licked his shiny lips, Gu Xiuyi felt like he was about to turn into extremely affected person. 

“However I have never skilled any dizziness prior to now two days,” Ji Ruan stated, blotting his lips with a tissue. “And did not you purchase me sweet?” 

Gu Xiuyi kept away from seasoning his response. “Not solely do you expertise fainting from hypoglycemia, however you even have anemia. Your anemia has not but improved.” 

The second cause for rejection. 

“Is it that extreme?” Ji Ruan bit the straw. “Does not our college require freshmen to stay on campus?” 

Gu Xiuyi took a sip of his black espresso. “If in case you have a reputable cause, you’ll be able to apply for day research.” 

Ji Ruan held the cup of soy milk, pondering for a second. As he contemplated Gu Xiuyi’s numerous rationales, he lastly questioned his soul. 

“However I will faculty, not becoming a member of the army. The varsity is not a harmful place, so why cannot I am going?” 

Gu Xiuyi paused, his fingertips suspended in mid-air. Dealing with Ji Ruan’s questioning eyes crammed with doubt, he could not instantly counter with a 3rd cause. 

He hesitated momentarily, turned his head, and checked out Aunt Zhao, who was cheerily buzzing a tune within the kitchen. “Zhao Ma, what do you assume?” 

He believed that Aunt Zhao would undoubtedly be a part of forces with him and assist persuade Ji Ruan. 

“Ah? You are asking me?” Aunt Zhao chuckled as she held a dishcloth. “Why are you asking me?” 

Ji Ruan additionally turned in direction of Aunt Zhao, talking earnestly, “Your opinion is actually valued.” 

Aunt Zhao’s standing unexpectedly soared, immediately changing into a number one determine within the negotiations. She briefly could not deal with the accountability. 

“Uh… nicely…” She contemplated for a second, smiling at Ji Ruan. “Do you need to stay on campus, Ruan Ruan?” 

Ji Ruan sat up straight, resembling a main faculty scholar beneath questioning, his tone barely melancholic. “Just a bit bit. Primarily as a result of I’ve by no means lived in a dormitory earlier than, and I need to expertise it no less than as soon as…” 

Aunt Zhao could not bear such a glance, her motherly love overflowing as soon as once more, as she twirled the dishcloth. “Oh, Xiao Gu, you heard Ruan Ruan himself say that he needs to go. Faculty life is so essential; it’ll turn into a cherished reminiscence sooner or later. Let him go.” 

“…” 

Gu Xiuyi discovered himself immediately remoted and helpless. His outdated nanny, who had been by his facet for twenty years, had taken Ji Ruan’s facet, regardless of solely understanding him for 2 months. All as a result of Ji Ruan would all the time take out Gu Xiuyi every time and wherever he happy. 

Although Gu Xiuyi did not present it on his face, he was deeply affected by this. He could not deliver himself to say sure or no, so he merely pointed on the steamed bun on the desk and stated, “Eat one other one.” 

Ji Ruan leaned again in his chair and rubbed his abdomen, saying, “I can not eat anymore.” 

He was as soon as once more appearing weak, as he all the time did every time issues did not go his method. His lips had been now not as pink as they was once. 

Gu Xiuyi felt pissed off. He could not cause with Ji Ruan, nor might he be merciless to him. And he could not inform Ji Ruan that he wished to maneuver again. 

If he had been to say that he would not let Ji Ruan depart, would not it imply he was forcing Ji Ruan to stick with him? 

Gu Xiuyi could not deliver himself to do this. It felt like a heavy weight was crushing his coronary heart. 

Unable to refuse any longer, Gu Xiuyi lastly compromised, saying, “Wonderful, wonderful… Go, let’s transfer to dormitory.” 

He by no means gained any confrontations with Ji Ruan. 

“Actually?” Ji Ruan’s eyes lit up, immediately regaining his vigor. 

He instantly resumed consuming the steamed bun. It hadn’t cooled down but, however it nonetheless tasted scrumptious. Ji Ruan narrowed his eyes in delight and stated, “Thanks, Boss Gu.” 

Despite the fact that Gu Xiuyi knew that Ji Ruan’s earlier weak point was simply an act, he could not assist however really feel uneasy when he noticed Ji Ruan get well so shortly. His coronary heart grew heavier. 

He stared at Ji Ruan’s lips for a second, then spoke coldly, “Blue.” 

“Huh?” Ji Ruan spoke with the tilde sound on the finish, his mouth nonetheless filled with the steamed bun. 

Gu Xiuyi subconsciously rubbed the ring on his finger and stated, “Select a blue washbasin.” 

Ji Ruan was momentarily stunned, realizing that Gu Xiuyi will need to have seen his want listing. 

On this family, Gu Xiuyi nonetheless had some say, even when it was simply in regards to the washbasin. Ji Ruan understood this nicely. 

“No downside,” Ji Ruan generously smiled, “I can take heed to you.” 

His smile was shiny, just like the summer season roses, Its petals opening large to greet the day, blooming within the yard exterior the window throughout early summer season, and just like the dimples Gu Xiuyi had when he ate rice dumplings as a baby. 

All of Gu Xiuyi’s uninteresting and stagnant emotions immediately disappeared due to this smile. He felt as if he had turn into a chameleon currently, along with his feelings altering immediately. 

Ninety p.c of those modifications had been due to Ji Ruan. 

This realization made Gu Xiuyi’s coronary heart skip a beat. 

A couple of days later, on a sunny weekend, the freshmen at Peking College completed their army coaching. 

Ji Ruan headed to the dormitory first, carrying nothing, whereas Gu Xiuyi carried Track Ling’s luggage. 

“Ding—” 

The elevator doorways opened, revealing a spacious dormitory hall. Regardless of being a male dormitory, it was a lot cleaner and brisker than anticipated. 

“Not dangerous,” Track Ling commented beside Gu Xiuyi, “They even have an elevator. Throughout our time, we needed to stroll in every single place.” 

Gu Xiuyi’s expression was gloomy as if he was in a traditional temper. He knocked on the door of Room 601 and stated, “What is the use? With so many college students on one flooring and solely two elevators, it will be crowded throughout rush hour.” 

If Ji Ruan’s small determine might squeeze in, then let Ji Ruan deal with it. 

Seeing Gu Xiuyi’s downward-turned lips, Track Ling shook his head. Boss’s lips had been curved like that for the previous few days. Simply strolling across the workplace was sufficient to terrify all the prime flooring, and everybody was fearful about chapter. 

Track Ling had been bombarded by numerous folks trying to not directly inquire in regards to the firm’s current monetary scenario. Little did they know, it was as a result of the boss’s facial features had modified as a result of the younger partner was going to stay on campus. Track Ling understood it was not applicable to reveal such household issues, so he pretended to be profound, however it appeared to make the workers much more anxious. 

Track Ling sighed inwardly, sustaining his professionalism as he responded, “You are proper, Boss.” 

Footsteps might be heard behind the door, and the following second, it clicked open. 

Room 601 was situated on the nook of the hall, with a bigger space than the opposite dormitories and good lighting. Ji Ruan’s face appeared in entrance of them beneath the brilliant pure mild, accompanied by a gust of wind. 

His honest pores and skin, curved eyes, fluffy hair, and the tender halo surrounding him made him appear like just a little angel. Even Track Ling discovered him pleasing to the attention, to not point out Mr. Gu. 

Mr. Gu had lengthy left behind his somber demeanor. 

What gloom? It now not existed. 

Track Ling pushed the baggage in, and all of the roommates had been current, gathered round a small desk. On the desk was a deck of shuffled taking part in playing cards, indicating they had been within the midst of a sport. 

“Let me introduce you.” Ji Ruan tugged at Gu Xiuyi’s sleeve and smiled, “You already know my roommates, Li Yu, Qin Shan, and Han Xiaolin.” 

Li Yu, a Wonderful Arts main, and Qin Shan, a Finance main, each with glasses and a barely dazed expression, noticed this scene and felt just a little puzzled. 

Ji Ruan continued to smile gently and stated naturally, “That is my husband, Gu Xiuyi, and the good-looking man subsequent to him is his good good friend and assistant, Track Ling.” 

Track Ling amiably greeted everybody. 

Gu Xiuyi was happy by Ji Ruan’s use of “husband,” sporting a real smile on his face as he positioned a number of exquisitely packaged luggage on the small desk. 

“Good day, everybody. Because it’s our first assembly, I wasn’t positive of your preferences, so I introduced some snacks. Ji Ruan is not in the perfect well being, so I am going to depend on all of you to deal with him sooner or later.” 

In any case, they had been well-known figures and legendary alumni of the college. The 2 new roommates had been reserved and uneasy. 

“Good day, Mr. Gu!” 

“Welcome, President Gu!” 

“Mr. Gu, please have a seat!” 

Gu Xiuyi smiled and declined, “No, I am going to assist Ji Ruan settle in and depart. Having me right here would make all of you uncomfortable as nicely.” 

He discovered Ji Ruan’s empty mattress, rolled up his sleeves, and together with Track Ling, cleaned the mattress and tables, serving to Ji Ruan arrange all his belongings, together with the mattress curtain. 

Ji Ruan solely tidied up the desk by himself. He took out the Fortunate Cat and sweet jars, handing out candies to his roommates and feeding one to Gu Xiuyi and Track Ling. 

In fact, Track Ling did not efficiently eat his sweet. Gu Xiuyi intercepted Ji Ruan’s wrist midway, and Track Ling took the sweet and put it in his mouth. 

As soon as every thing was practically packed, Gu Xiuyi took Ji Ruan to the hall to speak for some time. After the room was empty, the roommates heaved a sigh of reduction. 

Li Yu glanced on the snack luggage and exclaimed, “Wow, these are all costly imported manufacturers. These luggage will need to have value hundreds…” 

Qin Shan leaned on Han Xiaolin’s shoulder, trying relaxed as he stated, “Brother Han, is that Boss Gu… The one we see in monetary information day by day?” 

Han Xiaolin, who had met Gu Xiuyi a number of instances, immediately took on an air of superiority and stated, “Take a look at you, who’ve by no means seen the world. What’s incorrect with Boss Gu? He is additionally a person, and as a person, he has to get married. Study from me, my brother. Do not be stunned by modifications, simply get used to them.” 

The group determined to open the snack luggage and share. Li Yu sighed and stated, “However I have to say, Mr. Gu treats Ji Ruan exceptionally nicely. It is totally different from what I imagined.” 

Qin Shan agreed, “Sure, precisely. I used to take heed to Mr. Gu’s speeches. He was all the time so severe. I did not count on him to be fairly approachable in non-public.” 

“Maybe it is dependent upon the circumstances. If it wasn’t for Ji Ruan, we would not see this facet of him in non-public.” 

“That is sensible.” 

Han Xiaolin, being one of many few aware of Ji Ruan’s impending nuptials, contemplated on the inconvenience of incessant non-public discussions revolving round Ji Ruan. 

In a half-joking method, he remarked, “Let’s spare Mr. Gu any additional dialogue sooner or later. You lot do not know the way thin-skinned Ji Ruan is, and the way uncomfortable he will get when the subject is broached. Let’s proceed our traditional interactions.” 

“In fact,” Li Yu chimed in. “We cannot discuss it a lot exterior.” 

Qin Shan echoed the sentiment, saying, “We’ll heed Brother Han’s recommendation.” 

“Good on you, brother,” Han Xiaolin smiled with contentment, elevating a snack as if toasting with a wine glass. “Cheers!” 

The hall was ablaze beneath the scorching solar, inflicting Ji Ruan to decrease his head and squint his eyes. Nonetheless, Gu Xiuyi grabbed his wrist and led him to the shade. 

Crossing his arms, Gu Xiuyi remained silent for a second, however ultimately could not assist however supply a number of phrases of warning. “You could prioritize your security whereas residing on campus, you understand?” 

Ji Ruan nodded. 

“If you happen to really feel lightheaded upon waking within the morning, do not rush to get away from bed. Have some sugar and take it gradual. Ensure you’re totally awake earlier than getting up.” 

Ji Ruan nodded, smiling. 

“If you happen to really feel unwell, go to the college clinic. If you cannot stroll, ask your roommate for help. Do not hesitate to ask for assist. I am going to thank them in your behalf. Take it straightforward—” 

“—Mr. Gu.” 

Gu Xiuyi’s practice of thought was abruptly interrupted, leaving him momentarily surprised. “What?” 

Smiling, Ji Ruan leaned in opposition to the wall. “Did Zhao Ma educate you to say all these items?” 

Gu Xiuyi stuffed his fingers into his pockets. “I got here up with them alone.” 

Ji Ruan rolled his eyes, his dimples making an look as soon as extra as he smiled and stated nothing. 

Solely then did Gu Xiuyi understand he might need been overzealous in his recommendation. Making an attempt to play it cool, he adjusted his sleeves and buttoned his cuffs. “Alright, that is sufficient for now. I ought to head again.” 

Ji Ruan stopped him. “Aren’t we imagined to have dinner collectively?” 

Midway into his stroll, Gu Xiuyi turned his head. “No, I’ve a gathering. You’ll be able to have dinner along with your roommate, an opportunity to bond. Fast, go inside. It is sweltering out right here.” 

Ji Ruan pursed his lips. “Alright then.” 

Waving at Gu Xiuyi, he bid him farewell with a shiny smile. “Bye-bye.” 

Gu Xiuyi merely nodded barely earlier than coming into the elevator with Track Ling. 

Within the night, Ji Ruan went to have a sizzling pot along with his roommate. 

All through his complete pre-book life, Ji Ruan had not often indulged in sizzling pot. 

They selected a widely known, age-old institution that stood simply exterior the college gates. It was stated to be a ceremony of passage for each freshman to dine at this restaurant. By partaking on this sizzling pot, one really entered Beijing College. 

The restaurant’s inside decor was unremarkable, the ambiance full of life and bustling. A number of adjoining retailers had been interconnected to type a significantly spacious space. 

Ji Ruan and Li Yu from the Wonderful Arts Academy weren’t notably keen on spicy meals, so that they opted for a combo that includes mandarin duck sizzling pot, settling in for a chat. 

The opposite three had arrived over half a month earlier than Ji Ruan and had already familiarized themselves with all issues pertaining to the college. 

Pointing to the road past the window, Qin Shan’s plump finger moved animatedly. “Proper behind that road is the place you may discover the snack road. There’s this unbelievable snail noodle store there. Xiao Ruan, we must always test it out subsequent time?” 

Li Yu frowned upon listening to that, pushing up his glasses. “You continue to need to eat? Will not you get uninterested in it after every week?” 

Han Xiaolin rested his chin on his hand, feigning disillusionment. “We have already eaten with him a lot that he virtually felt sick. In addition to, you appear to be an individual who survives on water alone. Do you assume he’d invite you?” 

Taking a sip of watermelon juice, Ji Ruan responded, “Then I will not go.” 

He pretended to have a sudden realization, a mock epiphany. “So I am only a backup plan?” 

Qin Shan, in a state of panic, responded, “That is not it! I am not that sort of individual, Xiao Ruan. Do not take note of their nonsense. I genuinely and sincerely invited you… Sister Zizhang!” 

The chubby man abruptly shifted his consideration, his eyes practically coming out of their sockets, as he glimpsed a gorgeous determine strolling previous. “She’s so attractive… Do fairies additionally bask in sizzling pot?” 

Ji Ruan adopted his gaze and acknowledged the woman. “Why would not she eat it?” Li Yu remarked. “Even the Jade Emperor would give up when confronted with sizzling pot, not to mention fairies.” 

Han Xiaolin leaned nearer to Ji Ruan. “Cheng Zizhang, our campus magnificence. She’s additionally within the Chinese language Division, your senior.” 

With a contact of Han Xiaolin’s arm, Ji Ruan immediately remembered. “Oh, it is her.” 

Qin Xiaopang, an absolute fan of Goddess Cheng, could not include his pleasure. “Xiao Ruan, are you aware Senior Zizhang?” 

“Not likely…” Ji Ruan scratched her nostril and smiled. “I met her on the day of our orientation assembly. We exchanged WeChat contacts, however we have not chatted.” 

“Rattling,” Qin Shan muttered in shock. “Certainly, beauties simply love taking part in with good-looking guys. You handle so as to add the goddess on WeChat as quickly as you enter faculty…” 

Regardless of his envy, Qin Shan was smart sufficient to not ask Ji Ruan for the goddess’s WeChat. 

As the new pot began to boil, Ji Ruan casually picked up a slice of lotus root and took a chunk. In a light-hearted tone, she joked, “Don’t fret, I am interested in males, and I am married. It will not hinder your pursuit of the goddess.” 

Qin Shan smiled immediately. “Precisely what I am speaking about. If we find yourself such as you, we would should be into males. In any other case, what different prospects do we now have in terms of discovering a companion?” 

The opposite two chuckled and began putting greens into his oil dish. 

“Sufficient of your nonsense.” 

“Eat up.” 

After taking a number of mouthfuls, Li Yu interjected, “However I heard that Senior Zizhang has a boyfriend. Is not it that senior from the Faculty of Arithmetic subsequent door, Bai?” 

Qin Shan, about to eat duck intestines, raised his eyebrows upon listening to this. “Bai Ange?” 

Li Yu nodded. “Sure, Ange.” 

“Give me a break,” Qin Shan scoffed. “He isn’t as handsome as our little Ruan.” 

With that, he turned to Ji Ruan, who could not fairly perceive what was occurring. “In comparison with the present campus heartthrob, many women declare that he is good-looking, however truthfully, he is not as handsome as you.” 

“I do not assume it is a matter of appears to be like,” Li Yu analyzed rationally. “Xiao Ruan has a gorgeous and calm demeanor, whereas Bai Ange is extra of a stunning expertise.” 

“However which may change sooner or later.” Li Yu glanced at Ji Ruan. “Proper now, Xiao Ruan’s fame has already surpassed Bai Ange’s.” 

Qin Shan nodded in settlement. “I imagine so. There’s all the time a wall between the person of the hour and the one of many day.” 

The subject immediately shifted to himself, and Ji Ruan chuckled. “So, I am the person of the hour, huh?” 

“You are extremely influential.” Li Yu sighed. 

Qin Shan added, “You are the highest scholar in our college!” 

Coughing, Han Xiaolin, who had remained silent till then, poured himself a glass of beer. It appeared like he had one thing essential to share. “Gossip.” 

Han Xiaolin, who had just lately earned the title of the “Gossip Guru” in Xinsheng, claimed to be aware of all information and happenings at Beijing College. 

Li Yu and Qin Shan leaned in eagerly. 

Han Xiaolin lined half of his mouth along with his palm and spoke in a hushed tone. “I’ve heard that Bai Ange additionally has an curiosity in males.” 

“Actually?” Li Yu gasped, overlaying her mouth in shock. 

Qin Shan paused for a second, then burst into uproarious laughter. “It have to be true hahahahaha—” 

He poured himself a glass of beer. “I am one step nearer to the goddess. That is unbelievable.” 

“Get misplaced.” 

“Get misplaced.” 

Ji Ruan smiled quietly. 

The new pot restaurant teemed with folks, making a full of life ambiance. Faculty college students chatted away, filling every desk with fixed noise. The subjects of dialog ranged from gossip to video games, with no point out of learning. This gave the impression to be the norm throughout all universities within the nation. 

After the meal, Li Yu and Qin Shan invited their mates to hang around, whereas Han Xiaolin grew drained and pestered Ji Ruan to take a stroll across the campus for half an hour earlier than slowly making their method again to the dormitory. 

The dorms at Beijing College had been geared up with non-public guards and limitless sizzling water. When Ji Ruan completed showering and climbed into mattress, the opposite two returned after checking the entry management. 

Ji Ruan’s mattress was adorned with uniformly blue mattress sheets, quilt covers, and curtains. Even the small desk lamp by his bedside was in various shades of blue. It resembled an ocean about to recede. These had been all chosen by Gu Xiuyi. 

Ji Ruan usually struggled with making selections, particularly when it got here to small issues like these whereas transferring dormitories. He sat on the couch, pondering and indecisive. 

Beside him, Gu Xiuyi sat neither watching TV nor taking part in along with his telephone. He appeared keen to assist however remained tense, unable to talk. 

Ji Ruan, too laid-back to fret, determined to let Gu Xiuyi take cost and make the selections because the “grasp of the home.” 

That evening, Gu Xiuyi personally organized the main points of Ji Ruan’s mattress sheets, and the following morning, a smile performed on the corners of his mouth when Ji Ruan awakened. 

Ji Ruan tossed apart the quilt and settled into the mattress. Boss Gu had even chosen the mattress, which turned out to be tender and comfy. Ji Ruan closed his eyes in bliss, capturing a picture of the darkish blue haven created by Gu Xiuyi. 

Nearly instantly, a video name got here by way of. 

Ji Ruan scrambled to search out his earphones and plugged them in earlier than answering the decision. 

Gu Xiuyi seemed to be sitting in entrance of a darkened pc display screen, his face half-illuminated by the blue mild. He wore pajamas and half-rimmed glasses, which accentuated his sharp facial options and added a softness to his general demeanor, a attraction totally different from his traditional self. 

Ji Ruan noticed the background behind him, dimly lit. It was a spot he had by no means seen earlier than. “Are you in your traditional condo?” 

“Sure,” Gu Xiuyi confirmed. 

After Ji Ruan had chosen to stay on campus, Gu Xiuyi’s plan to maneuver again to his villa was discarded. It had been an enthusiastically pursued plan that abruptly got here to a halt, identified solely to the 2 of them. 

Gu Xiuyi did not push the subject additional and as an alternative rested a finger in opposition to the body of his glasses, asking Ji Ruan, “Is the mattress snug?” 

“Very snug,” Ji Ruan replied with a smile. “And the bedding smells fantastic. Thanks.” 

Like a cherub in repose, his chin tucked beneath the quilt, solely a touch of his pink lips was seen. His darkish hair cascaded throughout the pillow like a waterfall of midnight. 

His lengthy lashes had been like raven’s wings, catching the tender glow of the bedside lamp and casting mysterious shadows throughout his pale cheeks. His eyes sparkled like stars. 

He really complemented the blue environment, resembling just a little mermaid within the sea, whereas the mattress embodied the huge ocean. 

Gu Xiuyi gazed at Ji Ruan on the display screen, his eyes unconsciously softening. “What did you may have for dinner?” 

“Scorching pot,” Ji Ruan answered. “There’s this legendary Liji sizzling pot place exterior the principle entrance that has supposedly been round for years. You could understand it, proper?” 

Gu Xiuyi contemplated for a second. There did appear to be such a spot. “Is that the notorious restaurant that everybody says you must attempt while you enter Peking College?” 

“Sure, sure, precisely!” Ji Ruan exclaimed in shock. “So this saying has been circulating since your time?” 

“It goes even additional again,” Gu Xiuyi nodded, deep in thought. “Seniors who’re a number of years older than me talked about it even earlier than they entered faculty. The origins of the saying cannot be traced. What are your ideas on the style?” 

Ji Ruan rolled over, hugging the quilt, and contemplated. “It is scrumptious, however it would not fairly stay as much as the hype. Possibly as a result of I am not notably loopy about sizzling pot, to start with?” 

“Ah,” Gu Xiuyi nodded in settlement. “Most likely half fact, half publicity impact.” 

“However Han Xiaolin thought it was superb,” Ji Ruan adjusted his earphones and continued. “He ate a lot that he practically had an abundance of leftovers, so I gave him a field of digestive tablets.” 

His voice carried a slight huskiness, talking softly and slowly, making conversations with him an absolute delight. 

Gu Xiuyi matched his tempo: “And the way about you? Are you feeling alright?” 

Ji Ruan playfully narrowed her eyes: “Oh, I am wonderful. I exercised nice restraint and solely had the clear soup from the mandarin duck sizzling pot we ordered.” 

“Nicely,” Gu Xiuyi gently rested his brow on his hand, “You’ve got bought spectacular self-control.” 

Ji Ruan struggled to listen to clearly. Normally, he most well-liked to speak by way of messages and solely often made telephone calls. This was the primary time he wore earphones whereas speaking on the telephone like this. 

Gu Xiuyi’s voice sounded crisper and extra nice than traditional, cascading by way of the earphones and soothing Ji Ruan’s ears. 

Sinking again into the quilt, Ji Ruan could not assist however chuckle. 

Gu Xiuyi caught a glimpse of Ji Ruan’s dimple coming out however immediately, it vanished, hidden away within the quilt. 

The little mermaid giggled, hiding beneath the ocean, his eyes nonetheless glowing with that mischievous smile, his gaze crammed with numerous shattered stars. 

The corners of Gu Xiuyi’s lips curled up barely: “What have you ever laughing?” 

“Hmm…” Ji Ruan blinked his eyes innocently, “I am undecided both.” 

Really, he did not know. He contemplated it rigorously, however could not discover a proof for his laughter. It merely felt magical. 

Resulting from Ji Ruan’s listening to impairment, he should not have worn headphones for prolonged durations. Gu Xiuyi chatted a bit extra earlier than bidding him goodnight, permitting the little mermaid to dive utterly into the ocean. 

Initially of college, Ji Ruan discovered herself extremely busy. Between attending lessons, hanging out with mates, going out for meals, and contemplating elective programs and golf equipment, he had by no means felt so fulfilled in two lifetimes. 

However for Gu Xiuyi, being busy was the norm. 

Their communication dwindled to occasional messages, and even their telephone calls grew to become much less frequent. 

Sooner or later, after Ji Ruan completed his midday class, he obtained an sudden name from Gu Xiuyi. It was uncommon because it wasn’t a time after they would usually talk. 

The hallway was bustling with folks after class, so Ji Ruan rigorously steered away from the gang and stood on the nook. 

“Good day?” 

After an extended absence, Gu Xiuyi’s voice reached Ji Ruan’s ears. The phrases had been acquainted however comforting: “Are you skipping your afternoon class?” 

“Sure.” Ji Ruan wasn’t conscious of Gu Xiuyi’s class schedule, so he answered truthfully, “What’s up?” 

“Not an enormous deal,” Gu Xiuyi’s voice flowed lazily, with a touch of nonchalance, “A good friend really helpful a restaurant to me. They’re famend for his or her French snails. If you do not have dinner plans, would you want to hitch me in giving it a attempt?” 

Ji Ruan had grown uninterested in cafeteria meals and longed for a change of style. He did not thoughts having Western delicacies, so he agreed with out a lot thought: “Positive, what time?” 

“Half previous 5. Shall I decide you up on the predominant gate?” 

As the push hour after lessons receded, the hallway emptied. Ji Ruan leisurely strolled, holding onto the handrail. “Sounds good.” 

Gu Xiuyi gave the impression to be occupied as soon as extra when a voice interrupted their dialog. He lined his telephone and spoke a number of phrases to Ji Ruan, “Go have lunch and relaxation within the dormitory within the afternoon.” 

“Alright,” Ji Ruan nodded, “You go forward. I am going to dangle up.” 

After lunch, Ji Ruan returned to his dormitory, picked up a sweet that Gu Xiuyi had purchased for him, and glanced on the promotional posters of varied golf equipment. 

The sugar in his mouth tasted of grapes, candy and bitter flavors dancing on his style buds. 

Ji Ruan savored the feeling for some time after which seemed on the glass sugar bowl on the nook of the desk, immediately questioning if there was any cherry-flavored sweet left. Final time, he had solely discovered one, so maybe there was one other that had slipped by way of unnoticed. 

Clearing the desk, he poured out all of the sugar and chocolate, spreading them out and looking methodically. 

The dormitory door swung open, and Han Xiaolin and Li Yu returned. Their jaws dropped after they noticed Ji Ruan’s desk lined in candies: “What on earth are you doing?” 

“Oh, nothing,” Ji Ruan grinned, “Simply serving to myself to some sweets. Care to hitch?” 

With out hesitation, the 2 of them grabbed a sweet every, peeled them open, and indulged: “Thanks.” 

Han Xiaolin settled at his desk and glanced at Ji Ruan: “There is a new rooster sizzling pot place close to the college gate. Lets all go tonight?” 

Li Yu chimed in: “Completely! I’ve heard the style is superb, plus there is a 40% low cost. I am going to name Qin Shan too.” 

Ji Ruan continued looking for cherry candies, a slight pout forming on his lips as he heard their plans: “I will not have the ability to make it.” 

“What?” Han Xiaolin straightened up. 

Ji Ruan casually replied: “Gu Xiuyi and I have already got dinner plans.” 

“Yo ho~~~” The 2 bantered jealously within the dorm room. 

Li Yu lined his ears: “Companions might be so intimidating.” 

Han Xiaolin playfully hooked his arm round Ji Ruan’s neck, exclaiming to the sky: “Wow, take a look at this proud married man.” 

Ji Ruan playfully swatted his hand away, unable to include his laughter: “Get misplaced, I am outnumbered right here.” 

He meticulously positioned the scattered candies again into the jar, confirming that certainly, there have been no extra cherry flavors left, other than the one he had already savored. 

Shortly after 5 within the afternoon, Ji Ruan left the dormitory, strolling in direction of the college gate. The plan was to satisfy there at half previous 5, offering him with ample time to succeed in the vacation spot with out speeding. 

However in the present day, the sky appeared darker than traditional after 5 o’clock, and a cold wind brushed in opposition to his pores and skin. Ji Ruan, donning a short-sleeved shirt and shorts, anticipated sweating, however as an alternative, he felt an icy chill. 

He seemed up on the heavens, clouds gathering to obscure the sky, resembling…darkish clouds?! 

A way of foreboding stirred inside Ji Ruan, and within the subsequent second, raindrops the scale of beans pelted his cheek, inflicting him to squint from the impression. 

What adopted was a torrential downpour and a crescendo of thunder and lightning. 

Ji Ruan nonetheless had a brief distance to traverse earlier than reaching the college gate. Aside from the big timber, there was no shelter from the rain. Kids know higher than to hunt refuge beneath timber throughout thunderstorms. 

In a matter of seconds, the heavy rain cascaded down, leaving Ji Ruan with out a second to assume. He might solely depend on intuition, overlaying his ears and sprinting in direction of the safety sales space, mere tens of meters away. 

Although the space was brief, time appeared to elongate throughout these fleeting moments. By the point Ji Ruan reached the lined portion exterior the safety sales space, half of his physique was drenched. 

His garments clung to his again, sticky and uncomfortable, whereas the wind made him shiver. Ji Ruan’s coronary heart continued to race from the sudden burst of pace, leaving him standing there in a daze. 

Buzz—! 

The sudden vibration of his telephone jolted Ji Ruan out of his stupor. 

The caller ID displayed Gu Xiuyi’s title. 

With the rain pouring down, Ji Ruan instinctively lined his ears. Though his exterior gadget hadn’t utterly soaked by way of, it was nonetheless damp. At this second, the wisest plan of action can be to hold up, ship a textual content to Gu Xiuyi, and promptly take away the moist gadget, rigorously drying it off. 

However the thunder was deafening, and the rain relentless. Ji Ruan could not assist however really feel a twinge of concern. Gazing on the flickering telephone display screen, he hesitated for a second earlier than answering the decision. 

“Ji Ruan?” Gu Xiuyi’s voice held a tinge of urgency. “Did you deliver an umbrella?” 

“No…” Ji Ruan tried to regular his voice. “I am taking cowl beneath the cover exterior the safety sales space.” 

For a second, there was silence on the opposite finish, leaving Ji Ruan worriedly pondering his ears had failed him. Holding the telephone with each fingers, he nervously spoke, “Good day?” 

“It is alright.” Gu Xiuyi sounded relieved. “I see you, simply keep the place you might be.” 

Ji Ruan strained his eyes to find him. 

He raised his head, scanning his environment, coronary heart racing with every passing second. After a radical gaze, he noticed a well-known license plate tucked away within the blind spot created by an enormous outdated tree close to the gate. 

From there emerged Gu Xiuyi. 

With a large black umbrella shielding him from the rain, Gu Xiuyi strode in direction of Ji Ruan, deftly maneuvering across the tree’s shadows. 

Ji Ruan might hardly make out his determine amidst the dense downpour, the rain reworking right into a misty grey, resembling splatters of ink cascading down and billowing the corners of his garments. 

Ji Ruan did his greatest to retreat additional into the middle of the cover. The wind and rain nonetheless stung his calves, however Gu Xiuyi’s steps remained regular and unwavering. 

His lengthy legs propelled him ahead with assured strides, swiftly shortening the space that originally felt so distant. It was solely when he drew close to that Ji Ruan was capable of see his face clearly – a flawless expression, meticulous collar, and commanding presence. 

Upon coming into the protection of the safety sales space’s cover, Gu Xiuyi neatly folded his umbrella, permitting the rain to cascade down his ribs and dampen his trousers. 

Ji Ruan seemed up at him, his delicate eyebrows furrowed, his hair plastered to his brow, his eyelashes glistening with moisture. His complete physique was soaked by way of, giving him a forlorn look. 

Gu Xiuyi gently brushed apart a strand of Ji Ruan’s moist hair, his gaze fastened on his delicate brows and eyes. The pores and skin beneath his palm felt easy and supple, barely cool from the rain. 

Ji Ruan had all the time had a decrease physique temperature. 

“It is alright, do not be afraid,” Gu Xiuyi reassured, patting Ji Ruan on the again. 

He locked eyes with Ji Ruan, guaranteeing that his phrases had been heard clearly, earlier than reaching as much as take away his exterior gadget and sliding it into his coat pocket. 

With a tender click on behind his ear, the small black gadget was indifferent, taking away all sounds with it. Even the thunderous rain grew to become muffled, as if Ji Ruan herself had been transported to a different world. 

Ji Ruan’s coronary heart skipped a beat, instinctively drawing nearer to Gu Xiuyi, his eyes tightly shut. 

Gently lifting the umbrella, Gu Xiuyi enveloped Ji Ruan’s trembling type, encircling him in his arms. Decreasing his head, he whispered in his left ear, “It is alright, let me take you residence.” 

—– 

Creator’s Be aware: 

Mr. Gu’s little tactic for wooing his partner – offering a way of safety whereas educating them to depend on you.