NASAY CH 39

Luo Xing was absentmindedly led forward by Huo Xingzhou, his mind in utter chaos. He wasn’t afraid of suffering or being wronged, but he didn’t want to expose all his mess and vulnerabilities in front of Huo Xingzhou.

He wanted to be someone good—very good—in Huo Xingzhou’s eyes.

Suddenly, he recalled a book he had read somewhere. It said that using one’s misery to gain closeness with another would only result in fleeting pity and years of ridicule.

Luo Xing knew Huo Xingzhou wouldn’t laugh at him, but even so, he would rather not be pitied by him.

He wanted Huo Xingzhou to remember him years later as a beautiful memory from high school—a pure and simple classmate named Luo Xing. Not as a pitiful person with a tragic life and a disability.

Luo Xing swallowed hard. Even though he didn’t want to reopen this wound, he had no choice but to face it.

When they entered the room, Huo Xingzhou closed the door and began packing Luo Xing’s things. Luo Xing grabbed his hand.
“When did my mom… come back?”

“A little after six, pretty early.”
Huo Xingzhou smiled teasingly.
“You were sleeping so soundly in my arms that I thought even throwing you outside wouldn’t wake you up.”

Luo Xing stared at the wound on his face, his scalp tingling with dread. Around six… but he had woken up after eight. That left almost two hours. What had they talked about in those two hours?

“My… my mom, she…”
Luo Xing shook his head, too afraid to continue the thought.

Huo Xingzhou swiftly packed up the rest of his things, slung the schoolbag over his shoulder, picked up the scarf from the bed, and wrapped it around Luo Xing’s neck. He grabbed the remaining half of the cake and tossed it into the trash bin.

Huo Xingzhou hadn’t said a word, which made Luo Xing even more anxious. He grabbed his hand and asked nervously,
“Did my mom… say anything?”

“Do you really want to know?”
Huo Xingzhou held Luo Xing’s left hand and tucked it into his pocket, smiling at him.
“It’s a secret. If you bribe me, I might just tell you.”

Luo Xing bit his lip, remembering that Huo Xingzhou loved it when he called him “brother.” After struggling for a long time, he hesitantly stood on his tiptoes, leaned in close to his ear, his cheeks slightly flushed, and softly called,
“Brother Xingzhou, tell me, okay?”

He was truly too worried.

What if Zhao Jiulan had told him everything? What would he do then?

His hands trembled with anxiety. He almost wanted to run away and never see Huo Xingzhou again. But he couldn’t bear to.

Huo Xingzhou lowered his eyes, gazing at the boy’s thin, fragile frame and his cautious, pleading expression. His heart softened.

It was better not to let Luo Xing know about the threats he had made to Zhao Jiulan. It would only increase his burden.

The information from Shang Qingming wasn’t much—just that Zhao Jiulan had once been with a woman, but there were no details on why they separated. The only certainty was that Zhao Jiulan had been abusing Luo Xing.

The wound on the back of Luo Xing’s head was a result of his trick to provoke Zhao Jiulan, never expecting her to admit it so readily.

It was clear that Zhao Jiulan had no love for Luo Xing. To her, his existence was a never-healing wound, festering and painful.

But all those past traumas had nothing to do with Huo Xingzhou. He had no interest in knowing how miserable her life had been, nor did he feel any sympathy for her.

Because none of it could justify her abuse of Luo Xing.

Adult grudges should never be inflicted on children.

Was he born just to serve as her tool for revenge? She didn’t deserve to be a mother!

A trace of cruelty flashed in Huo Xingzhou’s eyes. If he hadn’t been worried about hurting Luo Xing further, he wouldn’t have let Zhao Jiulan off so easily.

“Little one.”

“Hmm?”
Luo Xing looked at him nervously, waiting for him to reveal what Zhao Jiulan had said. His Adam’s apple bobbed slightly.

“Do you hate your mother?”
Huo Xingzhou ruffled his hair, paused, and added,
“For neglecting you, for not giving you the care and love you deserve—do you hate her?”

Luo Xing’s body stiffened instantly, and his fingertips turned cold. Huo Xingzhou, having grown up playing with Ye Qiaoqiao and influenced by Shang Qingming and Ye Ren, knew that when people think of something terrifying, blood rushes back to protect the heart, making the fingertips go cold.

He was scared. He was in pain.

For a long time, Luo Xing shook his head.
“I don’t hate her.”

Huo Xingzhou paused, gently rubbing his hand. He smiled faintly but didn’t ask anything further.

See?

Even like this, Luo Xing had never hated her.

From his observations, Luo Xing’s heart was too calm, as if he didn’t know what love or hate felt like. He never complained about Ding Chao’s false accusations or his mother’s abuse.

If it weren’t for his shy personality and the cautious way he remembered every little kindness to repay it, Huo Xingzhou might have thought he was a cold, emotionless robot.

But he knew Luo Xing wasn’t like that. Luo Xing simply didn’t want to hold grudges against anyone.

His Luo Xing, his little one, was really, really good—one of the kindest kids in the world.

Huo Xingzhou couldn’t quite grasp what Luo Xing truly felt about Zhao Jiulan deep down, but instead of adding to his pain, he decided it was better to give him a little warmth.

When Luo Xing was younger, he must have once hoped for Zhao Jiulan’s love. Perhaps that hope had long faded under years of abuse.

But if there was even a sliver of it left, wouldn’t he be a little happy?

Huo Xingzhou gently squeezed his fingers and said softly,
“Your mom said she feels sorry for you. She doesn’t ask for your forgiveness. If you don’t want to come back in the future, she won’t disturb you.”

Luo Xing stared at him blankly, opening his mouth but unable to speak.

How was that possible?

Could that really be the Zhao Jiulan he knew?

“Your mom also said that you’ve always been obedient and smart, with few friends. Aside from studying, you didn’t know how to interact with others. She asked me to take good care of you.”

“And… and what else?”

“She also told you to listen to me.”

Huo Xingzhou brushed his thumb against Luo Xing’s slightly parted lips, which were soft and red. He couldn’t help but want to lean down and take a bite to see if they were sweet inside or if they would let out a pleasant sound.

Huo Xingzhou lowered his head and asked,
“So, will you listen to me?”

Luo Xing instinctively nodded, then quickly shook his head.
“Don’t change the subject!”

“Okay, okay, I won’t. What do you want to say? Ask me.”
Huo Xingzhou chuckled, waiting for him to speak.

“Your face… what happened? Was it my mom? Are you lying to me? Tell me the truth—did she hit you?”
Luo Xing bit his lip and gently touched the injury on Huo Xingzhou’s face, asking with concern. He recognized the wound immediately. It was just like the one he had a few months ago when Luo Xing went to watch him play basketball.

It must have been Zhao Jiulan who hit him!

The more he thought about it, the more certain he became. That morning, when Zhao Jiulan saw them sleeping together, Huo Xingzhou must have gotten up to protect him, facing her anger alone and getting hit in the process.

Luo Xing’s eyes turned red in an instant.

He was so useless!

He hadn’t been able to protect Huo Xingzhou from Ding Chao’s trouble, and now he had dragged him into this mess again. Zhao Jiulan was right—he only brought pain and harm to others.

Luo Xing clutched his palms tightly as tears suddenly streamed down his face, falling onto Huo Xingzhou’s hand, startling him. He quickly cupped Luo Xing’s face and asked,
“What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?”

Luo Xing shook his head.
“No.”

“Then what is it? Are you cold?”
Huo Xingzhou frowned and reached to take off his coat, but Luo Xing grabbed his hand and stopped him. His voice was thick with emotion.
“I’m not cold… I just… You shouldn’t come to my house anymore…”

“Luo Xing.”
Huo Xingzhou clasped his hand and tucked it back into his pocket. He turned sideways to shield him from the wind and lowered his voice.
“Don’t you trust me?”

Luo Xing frantically shook his head.
“I trust you! I really do… but your face…”

“When I got out of bed this morning, the wind was strong. The door bounced back and scratched me. Are you worried about me?”
Huo Xingzhou smiled with downcast eyes, curling his finger in Luo Xing’s palm.
“I heard saliva can heal wounds. Why don’t you lick it for me?”

Luo Xing pushed him aside and turned his head away. His mind was a mess. He couldn’t make sense of the things Huo Xingzhou was saying.

It had been 17 years. Except for the day he was hospitalized after losing his hearing, when she smiled at him once, he had never experienced even the slightest hint of motherly warmth from her.

How was it possible? How could she suddenly say such things to a stranger overnight?

Luo Xing unconsciously scratched at his fingers. Was it because… he wasn’t good enough? Is that why Zhao Jiulan didn’t like him? But Huo Xingzhou… he was always good.

Did Zhao Jiulan like children like that?

“Little one,”
Huo Xingzhou hooked his finger in Luo Xing’s palm and leaned closer, coaxing him,
“The bus is here. Do you want to keep being mad once we’re on it?”

It was hard to get a taxi here, so they had to wait for the bus. Luckily, the bus came every 15 minutes, which wasn’t too bad. If it took longer, Huo Xingzhou would have worried that Luo Xing might get cold.

The bus had the heater on, and it was warm inside.

Huo Xingzhou unwrapped Luo Xing’s scarf and smiled.
“This is the first time we’ve taken the bus together. Do you remember the day you transferred schools? I went to pick you up, and you tumbled out of the car like a little ball.”

Luo Xing’s face turned red at the memory.
“There were too many people that day. My foot went numb, and I lost my balance when I got off. Did you see that?”

“I saw it. That day, I’d just been scolded by Teacher Cheng in the office. I was in a bad mood, but the moment you showed up, you made me laugh.”

Huo Xingzhou released his hand and chuckled.
“Tell me, aren’t you a little bundle of happiness?”

Luo Xing’s face, either from the bus heater or from embarrassment, flushed a light pink. He avoided Huo Xingzhou’s gaze and told him to stop talking.

Seeing Luo Xing’s mood improve, Huo Xingzhou finally relaxed.

Ding-dong.

Luo Xing’s phone suddenly vibrated. He looked down and saw a message from Yan Ran, informing him that Huo Yansheng was home and available to meet him.

Luo Xing’s eyes lit up instantly. They had agreed on a meeting time earlier, but it had been postponed because Huo Yansheng was busy.
Luo Xing had thought he was being brushed off, but now that he was invited to meet at Huo Yansheng’s house, he couldn’t help but tremble with excitement. He quickly replied,
“Okay! Thank you!”

Yan Ran sent a voice message. Luo Xing frowned slightly, not wanting to put on headphones in front of Huo Xingzhou, so he converted the voice message into text.

—Huo Yansheng said he wants to apologize. He was really busy recently and couldn’t meet you earlier.

Luo Xing replied: It’s fine. If we don’t meet, it’s no problem.

—No, we must meet! I told him there’s a hardcore fan waiting for him. Also, I gave him the translation you did. He said it was amazing. Some sentences were even more poetic than the original. He really liked it.

Luo Xing, who was often praised by teachers for his academic performance, rarely received compliments in this area. Since it came from someone he had admired for years, his face flushed with shyness.

Huo Xingzhou glanced down at the phone screen, catching a glimpse of Yan Ran’s name. He suddenly felt breathless, a cold snort escaping from his nose.

Luo Xing didn’t notice and continued typing messages. Yan Ran unexpectedly changed the subject.

—You’re at Jiangcheng No. 2 High, right? I heard Huo Yansheng’s son also goes there. But he’s quite the troublemaker, a master at causing chaos. You probably don’t know him.

Luo Xing squinted and smiled. His fingertips danced lightly across the screen, pale and slender, soft and gentle. Watching him, Huo Xingzhou felt like those fingers were tapping directly on his heart, igniting a flame.

—I’ll send you the address. Go ahead on your own. He’ll be available all day today.

Huo Xingzhou noticed that Luo Xing had been engrossed in chatting for a while. Feeling jealous, he reached out to cover the phone screen and leaned in close to his ear with a heavy cough.
“Who are you chatting with so seriously? You’ve ignored me for five minutes.”

Luo Xing looked up and saw Huo Xingzhou’s unhappy expression. He quickly tried to comfort him.
“Huo Xingzhou, did you know? Sister Yan Ran told me that Mr. Huo Yansheng’s son also goes to our school.”

“And then?”
Huo Xingzhou raised an eyebrow and let out a cold snort.

Luo Xing blinked, not understanding the sudden question. He didn’t catch the hint of jealousy in his voice and, still full of excitement, grabbed Huo Xingzhou’s hand with admiration in his eyes.
“I don’t know who it is, but they’re so lucky to be his child! They must get to read his books every day, have tons of signed copies, and—”

Before he could finish, Huo Xingzhou tightened his grip on Luo Xing’s hand. The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he became. Was this ever going to end?

“What? Do you want to meet him?”
Huo Xingzhou gritted his teeth, wrapping his hand around Luo Xing’s wrist and giving it a firm squeeze.
“Are you planning to ditch me and play with him instead?”

Luo Xing was stunned.
“No, no! That’s not it!”

Only then did Huo Xingzhou’s expression soften slightly. But then a mischievous thought crossed his mind, and he pretended to be serious.
“What if both I and Huo Yansheng’s son treat you well? Who would you play with then?”

Luo Xing froze.

Why was he asking this? Of course, it would be him! He just liked Huo Yansheng’s books, not the man himself. Besides, what did Huo Yansheng’s son have to do with him?

The person he liked was him.

“Hurry up and answer!”
Seeing that Luo Xing was silent, Huo Xingzhou raised his hand with a playful glint in his eye.

He knew where Luo Xing was most ticklish. When they were alone, Luo Xing would get shy. Now that they were on the bus, he’d definitely be even more embarrassed. So, without hesitation, he reached for Luo Xing’s waist.

His hand slipped under Luo Xing’s shirt, pressing gently on his lower back through the sweater. As expected, Luo Xing gasped softly, biting his lip to suppress a sound.

Although they were seated in the last row, the bus had surveillance cameras. Huo Xingzhou didn’t want an audience, so he only teased him a little without going too far.

Luo Xing wriggled away, panting.
“Stop it, stop it! There are cameras!”

“Then tell the truth, or I’ll go lower,”
Huo Xingzhou threatened, sliding his hand down toward Luo Xing’s skin.

His hand was warm, but it felt cool compared to the sensitive skin on Luo Xing’s waist. Already sensitive and ticklish, Luo Xing instinctively arched his back, trying to escape, but Huo Xingzhou held him in place.

“I’ll say it, I’ll say it! Let go! It’s cold!”
Luo Xing pleaded, pushing at his hand. Nervously glancing at the surveillance camera and the other passengers, his face turned red as he shook his head in embarrassment.

Huo Xingzhou finally released him, tapping his waist with a knuckle. Only when he saw Luo Xing on the verge of tears did he relent.
“Hurry up and answer.”

Luo Xing glanced shyly at the other passengers, then slowly withdrew his gaze. Hesitating for a moment, he leaned close to Huo Xingzhou’s ear and whispered,
“With… with you.”

The question had been about who he’d rather play with, but in his panic, Luo Xing blurted out that he wanted to be with him.

Completely satisfied, Huo Xingzhou’s mood lifted. He watched as Luo Xing shyly tugged at the hem of his shirt, trying to hide himself from view, as if wanting to disappear.

Hmm… so making him shy is the best way to cheer him up?

Huo Xingzhou chuckled, straightening Luo Xing’s clothes. Seeing him staring nervously, afraid he’d tickle him again, Huo Xingzhou couldn’t help but smile.

What a treasure.

The bus ride was long. After getting off, Huo Xingzhou refused to let Luo Xing wait for another bus and hailed a cab, giving the driver an address—his home.

“Are your parents home?”
Luo Xing tugged nervously at Huo Xingzhou’s sleeve.
“Should I buy something to bring as a gift? It’s rude to visit empty-handed.”

“No need,”
Huo Xingzhou smiled.
“You’re the gift.”

Luo Xing was too nervous to catch what he said, nor did he notice the gentle, affectionate look in Huo Xingzhou’s eyes.

Luo Xing glanced at the address Yan Ran had sent him. It seemed to be in the same villa complex as their house. He asked again,
“Also, since I’m going to meet Mr. Huo Yansheng, should I buy something? It’d be disrespectful to go empty-handed.”

He thought about it and realized he had some savings left from the translation work he had done for Huo Yansheng. He could probably buy a decent gift.

“Don’t buy anything,”
Huo Xingzhou said, closing his eyes and pretending to sleep.

Luo Xing panicked and tugged at his hand. Lowering his voice to avoid being overheard by the driver, he pleaded,
“Huo Xingzhou, don’t sleep! Help me think of something!”

Huo Xingzhou remained still.

“If I don’t bring something, what if your parents think I’m rude and don’t like me? And…”

Before Luo Xing could finish, Huo Xingzhou opened his eyes and told the driver,
“Sir, please stop at that gift shop ahead.”

Luo Xing clutched a gift box nervously and asked,
“Is this really okay?”

Earlier, Huo Xingzhou had taken him to a store selling calligraphy and painting supplies. After glancing around, he casually pointed at something and told him to buy it. Luo Xing had bought it despite his doubts, but since it was so cheap, he felt uneasy.

“I said it’s fine, so it’s fine.”

“Then why did you only let me buy one gift…”
Luo Xing felt something was off, but he was too nervous right now to figure out what exactly it was.

“You’ll understand later.”
Huo Xingzhou didn’t hold his hand but kept his hands in his pockets, walking ahead.

He hadn’t planned on letting his parents know about his feelings for Luo Xing just yet. He wanted to protect Luo Xing from unnecessary pressure. Although his parents had a good relationship with the Lu and Ye families and were open-minded, acceptance was a different matter when it involved their own son.

Huo Xingzhou wasn’t worried about himself; he was concerned about Luo Xing being treated differently. He decided to wait—until Luo Xing had completely fallen for him, their relationship was stable, and his parents could accept it and pamper Luo Xing just as much as he did.

He was determined to give Luo Xing all the happiness he never experienced himself. Everything he had missed and lost, he would make sure Luo Xing had it all.

Huo Xingzhou placed his hand on the fingerprint lock, and with a beep, the door opened. Luo Xing hesitated, tugging on Huo Xingzhou’s sleeve nervously. “Maybe… I should go back…”

“Who’s there?”

Huo Yanshen had just finished writing and was coming downstairs for water when he heard the door open. He turned and saw Huo Xingzhou standing at the entrance. His brow furrowed.
“What are you standing there for?”

Luo Xing shrank his fingers back nervously, glancing at Huo Xingzhou in panic. He had no experience dealing with elders. Even his aunt Zhao Jiulan didn’t like him. How could he win the favor of someone else’s parents?

“Don’t be scared. My dad’s actually pretty easygoing—he just likes to criticize me,”
Huo Xingzhou said softly, patting Luo Xing’s hand reassuringly.
“Trust me.”

Luo Xing looked into his eyes and felt his heart calm down. He bit his lip and nodded slightly, glancing at the door’s reflection to check his appearance.
He looked neat and presentable enough.

Huo Yanshen walked over, still frowning, but his cold expression softened slightly when he saw Luo Xing’s nervous face. He smiled.

“Hello, Dad.”
Huo Xingzhou smiled and gently pulled Luo Xing closer.
“This is Luo Xing.”
Huo Yanshen paused for a second, then realized and said,
“Ah, Luo Xing, right? Yan Ran told me about you. I really liked the book you translated for me.”

Luo Xing froze, staring blankly at Huo Yanshen’s moving lips. He understood each word, but when strung together, they suddenly didn’t make sense.

Did he mean…

Luo Xing turned stiffly to look at Huo Xingzhou, his mind racing. Why did Huo Xingzhou have so many signed books from Yan Ran’s father?

And wasn’t it rumored that Yan Ran’s brother, the mischievous troublemaker, also attended their school?

Wait.

Huo Xingzhou smiled as he watched Luo Xing’s eyes widen in shock, his lips moving but unable to form words.

“You… you’re… Yan Ran said her dad’s son…”
Luo Xing’s voice faltered, afraid of being rude, as he nervously bit his lip.
“Huo… Teacher Huo! I—I really admire you! I’m your fan!”

“Ah.”
Huo Xingzhou chuckled as he watched Luo Xing fidget nervously, unsure where to place his hands and feet.

“Come on in. It’s cold outside,” Huo Yansheng said quickly.

Luo Xing followed him in a daze, staring at Huo Yansheng’s back in a simple sweater. He swallowed hard.

Huo Xingzhou handed him a pair of slippers to change into, then helped him take off his down jacket and hung it on the coat rack. He looked into Luo Xing’s eyes and mouthed silently,
“Don’t be nervous. My dad will like you. Take this chance to ask for a few signed books. Later, we can stack them in my room as a footrest.”

Luo Xing didn’t relax at all. Instead, his nervousness grew. He glared at Huo Xingzhou, frustrated. He knew—he knew how nervous he was, yet he still teased him, watching him fret over gifts and worry endlessly.

Huo Xingzhou had done it all on purpose!

Huo Yansheng sat on the sofa with a kind expression, reaching out his hand,
“Please, have a seat.”

Luo Xing sat upright on the sofa, his back perfectly straight, with both hands neatly placed on his knees. Every nerve in his body was stretched taut, as if the slightest touch would cause him to shatter into powder.

Not only was Huo Yansheng now in front of him, but he was also the father of Xingzhou—the father of his family.

Luo Xing looked at him. His feelings had gradually changed from admiration to a deep hope that Huo Yansheng would like him and have a good impression of him.

Huo Xingzhou brought over three cups of tea. He placed one in front of Huo Yansheng and said politely,
“Dad, have some tea.”

He handed another cup to Luo Xing, wrapping his hand around his, then introduced,
“This is my desk mate, Luo Xing. He’s the top student at our school. He came over to help tutor me for a few days and will be staying here for a while.”

Huo Yansheng glanced at him and thought, What can you possibly learn? If you can look at your textbooks for more than two minutes without dozing off, it must be a miracle.

“Can you take good care of him?”
Huo Yansheng shifted his gaze back to Luo Xing and smiled warmly.
“Xingzhou has always been a bit of a troublemaker. His mother and I didn’t do the best job disciplining him. I hope he hasn’t caused you any trouble.”

Luo Xing, who had been too nervous to speak, kept his eyes fixed on Huo Yansheng’s lips, afraid of missing any word and appearing rude. Upon hearing this, he shook his head quickly and said gently,
“Xingzhou is doing great.”

After a moment’s thought, he added,
“He’s been studying very seriously lately and made a lot of progress in the last monthly exam.”

Huo Yansheng raised an eyebrow and looked at Xingzhou, only to catch his smug expression. He quickly looked away, unable to bear it.

“Ahem.”
Huo Yansheng cleared his throat and changed the topic.
“Yan Ran showed me your translation draft. I know a little French, and I must say, your translation is quite impressive, especially…”

Luo Xing listened quietly. He waited for two seconds after Huo Yeshan finished speaking, then answered in a soft voice.

Perhaps it was because Huo Yanshen had the air of a scholar that he gave Luo Xing a sense of calm. Gradually, Luo Xing stopped feeling nervous. When asked questions about books, he could respond fluently and confidently.

Huo Xingzhou tilted his head and thought, He’s totally immersed in his scholarly fan persona now. If it were Wu Suyan at home today, this kid would probably be blushing like crazy.

He glanced at Luo Xing, got up, and went to the kitchen. Opening the fridge, he found a small porcelain bowl of soup and some leftover dishes, which he decided to heat up.

By the time they finished chatting, the food would be ready to eat.

Huo Xingzhou pulled out a chair and sat in the kitchen, casually playing on his phone while keeping an eye on the pot. Suddenly, a text popped up, causing his eyebrows to furrow.

“Xingzhou, it’s Min Yao’s birthday in a few days. I want to visit her—Xue Jian.”

He had already blocked and deleted him on WeChat, and yet he dared to send a text?

“Oh? Min Yao’s death is related to you. Now, even on her birthday, you can’t leave her in peace?”
Huo Xingzhou chuckled coldly, replying to him for the first time.

“It’s been years, and I know I was negligent back then, overestimating my alcohol tolerance. I regret it deeply now. Why won’t you forgive me?”

Huo Xingzhou read the message, easily picturing Xue Jian’s cold, beautiful face, with furrowed brows and reddened eyes—just like he had fooled Yao back then.

“Unless you bring the culprit to justice, revive Min Yao, or make it so she never met you in the first place.”

Huo Xingzhou glanced at the living room where Luo Xing and Huo Yansheng were still having a pleasant conversation, then turned back to continue typing,
“Can you do that? If not, then get lost.”

The other side went silent for a long time. Just as Huo Xingzhou was about to put away his phone, another message popped up.

“Are you saying… you’ll never forgive me in this lifetime?”

Huo Xingzhou replied,
“Three years. You’re only realizing this now?”

After a long pause, Xue Jian sent back a single word: “Okay.”

---

Huo Xingzhou heated all the dishes and soup. When he turned around, he realized the two were no longer in the living room. He froze for a moment.

Turning off the stove, he walked out and saw Luo Xing coming downstairs with a stack of books in his arms, a bright smile on his face. If it weren’t for the stairs, Huo Xingzhou suspected he’d be bouncing down.

So easily satisfied?

Huo Xingzhou’s heart ached. For anyone else with such a painful and dark past, they might’ve grown up twisted and bitter. But somehow, Luo Xing had turned it into kindness.

All it took was a book, a person, and he could smile so brightly.

Leaning against the open kitchen doorway, one foot pressed to the wall, Huo Xingzhou smiled as he watched him run over. He reached out to ruffle his hair and asked with a teasing smile,
“Really went to ask for books?”

Luo Xing blushed, lowered his head to look at the books in his hands, then looked up again with a grin.
“Uncle Huo gave them to me.”

“Hey, you’re already calling him ‘uncle’? You two are getting close pretty fast.”
Huo Xingzhou blinked and reached out to pinch Luo Xing’s earlobe.
“Still nervous?”

Luo Xing swallowed hard and nodded.
He was still so nervous. He had just discussed The Wind in the Blood with Huo Yansheng for such a long time, speaking instinctively. He couldn’t even recall how he had responded to everything. He remained dazed until Huo Yansheng smiled and led him upstairs.

In the study, Huo Yansheng took out over a dozen books from the shelf. One by one, he opened the front pages, signed them, and then looked up to ask Luo Xing how to write his name.

Luo Xing quickly replied,
“Luo, like the riverbank of the Luo River, and Xing, like sailing upstream.”

Huo Yansheng lowered his eyes with a slight smile and wrote “To Luo Xing” in smooth strokes before pushing the books toward him.
“May these books be lifelong friends, and may you roam freely through time.”

After dinner, Huo Xingzhou cleaned up the dishes and threw them into the dishwasher. Then he led Luo Xing upstairs.

Huo Yansheng had gone out for business, leaving only the two of them at home. Luo Xing was sitting on the floor with the pile of books, beaming as he flipped through them, but also carefully treating them like treasures, reluctant to touch them too much.

Huo Xingzhou watched with a tinge of jealousy, tempted to toss the books away. He grabbed one, flipped it open, and casually said,
“What’s so great about these books? Are they better-looking than me?”

Luo Xing, still feeling elated, instinctively looked at him and seriously sized him up for a while. He suddenly realized what he was doing, blushed furiously, and stammered as he avoided eye contact,
“This can’t be compared.”

Huo Xingzhou leaned in, unwilling to let it go. He pulled Luo Xing onto the bed, pressing him down.
“Come on, tell me—are the books better, or am I better?”

Luo Xing laughed and tried to escape.
“I don’t know.”

“Do you really not know?”
Huo Xingzhou raised his hand and tickled him lightly on the stomach.
“Now that you’re in my house, you can’t leave until you say something nice.”

Luo Xing was extremely ticklish, thrashing around as he laughed uncontrollably. Amid the chaos, he heard Huo Xingzhou’s words and deliberately said,
“The books are better.”

“Oh, really?”
Huo Xingzhou chuckled, pretending to lift Luo Xing’s shirt. His fingers gently circled around his navel.
“Are you trying to stay here on purpose? Maybe I should find a little leash and keep you in my room. You’ll have to beg me if you want to go out.”

“Stop, stop! It’s ticklish!”
Luo Xing couldn’t take it anymore, pleading repeatedly,
“I won’t say it again!”

Huo Xingzhou snorted, holding Luo Xing’s wrists above his head and leaning in close.
“No backing out now. You just said I wasn’t as good as the books.”

Luo Xing looked at his face, so close that their breaths almost seemed to intertwine, like they were about to kiss. His face burned, and his breathing quickened.

A strange heat welled up from his stomach, and Luo Xing instinctively shifted his legs, feeling his face and ears grow even hotter. He whispered,
“You’re better-looking.”

“That’s more like it.”
Huo Xingzhou noticed a light sheen of sweat on Luo Xing’s forehead and, worried he might catch a cold, quickly let go and stopped teasing him.

The heating in the house was strong, so wearing thinner clothes wasn’t a problem. Huo Xingzhou glanced out the window, then opened the closet and pulled out a set of pajamas, tossing them onto the bed.

“Go take a shower. It’s snowing again, so we’re not going out. Just change into these pajamas afterward. They’re brand new—my mom bought them for me, but I haven’t worn them.”
He grabbed another set for himself and added,
“I’ll shower in the downstairs guest room. When I’m back, we’ll do homework together.”

Luo Xing hugged the pajamas, his face still red, and nodded.

Huo Xingzhou went into the bathroom to adjust the water temperature, letting it warm up before stepping out.
“It’s ready. Can you adjust the temperature on your own?”

Luo Xing hesitated for a moment, then shook his head.

Huo Xingzhou chuckled, took his hand, and led him into the bathroom, showing him how to use the knobs. Suddenly, he turned on the showerhead, and warm water sprayed down, startling Luo Xing, who instinctively hid behind Huo Xingzhou.

“Oops.”
Huo Xingzhou laughed, watching Luo Xing blink like a frightened kitten. He quickly turned off the water.
“Go ahead and wash up. Call me if you need anything.”

Luo Xing gave him a little shove, silently scolding him for scaring him. But once the door closed, his heart started racing again, thumping wildly in his chest.

He came to Huo Xingzhou’s house again, possibly staying for quite a while, using his bathroom to shower, wearing his pajamas, and sleeping in his bed.

Luo Xing felt like he was about to float away in happiness. His whole body felt light, even the anti-slip mat under his feet felt soft like cotton.

He raised his hand and slowly undressed, then couldn’t help but glance down at his belly button. It was small and round, slightly sunken, deeper than his waistline, moving slightly with his breathing.

Huo Xingzhou seemed to really like it… Luo Xing poked it lightly with his fingertip and felt that area tense up in response, even showing signs of… rising. Panicking, he quickly withdrew his hand.

Huo Xingzhou showered quickly. When he came back upstairs, Luo Xing was still in the bathroom. Hearing the running water, Huo Xingzhou grew worried—had he passed out in there? He hurried to the door and knocked.
“Luo Xing?”

No response.

Huo Xingzhou wasn’t sure if he hadn’t heard or if something had happened. Growing increasingly anxious, he banged on the door harder.
“Luo Xing!”

The water stopped, and after a pause, Luo Xing’s uncertain voice came through the door.
“Is… is that Huo Xingzhou?”

Huo Xingzhou sighed in relief.
“Yes, it’s me. Are you done? Don’t stay in too long—it’s bad for your oxygen levels.”

“Y-yeah, I know.”

A moment later, Luo Xing opened the door and stepped out. His hair was still wet, droplets of water falling onto his eyelashes. When he blinked, one droplet fell onto his collarbone, shattering into tiny fragments.

The pajamas were Huo Xingzhou’s size, far too large for Luo Xing. The sleeves and pants were folded up in thick layers, and the neckline hung loose, revealing a wide expanse of his collarbone.

The steam from the bathroom made his skin glow with a soft pink tint, smooth and tender, tempting one to reach out, pull him close, and bite him.

Huo Xingzhou coughed to cover up his thoughts.
“The pajamas are a bit big. Just make do for tonight. I’ll take you out tomorrow to get some that fit.”

Luo Xing nodded.

“Come here,”
Huo Xingzhou said, gesturing to him.

Luo Xing hesitated for a couple of seconds before walking over, feeling as if he were still naked despite wearing the pajamas. He awkwardly made his way to him, only to be pressed down onto a chair.

“I’ll blow your hair dry,”
Huo Xingzhou said, plugging in the hairdryer and testing the temperature on the back of his hand before moving closer to Luo Xing.
“Is the temperature okay?”

Luo Xing had never been taken care of like this before, especially by Huo Xingzhou. Embarrassed, he reached out to take the hairdryer.
“I can do it myself. You should dry your own hair too.”

“It’s fine.”
Huo Xingzhou’s hands moved gently as he dried Luo Xing’s hair. When he finished, he casually tousled his own hair, drying it quickly before tossing the hairdryer aside.

In the meantime, Luo Xing had already opened his bag and taken out his schoolwork, sitting at the low table by the bay window, waiting for him.

Huo Xingzhou glanced at the stack of papers and said, half-negotiating,
“Teacher Luo, can I play a game for a bit first?”

“No.”
Luo Xing pushed the papers toward him without hesitation, handing him a pen as well.
“Uncle Huo told me to keep an eye on you and not let you play games.”

Huo Xingzhou raised an eyebrow.
“Wow, he’s my dad, but you listen to him so well. Do you want to call him dad too?”

Luo Xing didn’t quite understand and responded with a confused
“Huh?”

“Nothing.”
Huo Xingzhou coughed lightly and gave in.
“Alright, homework it is. I’ll do it since our little warden here won’t let me play games.”

Luo Xing lowered his head, hiding a smile.

Suddenly, his phone vibrated on the table. He glanced at the screen—it was a message from Weibo.

@BuYuanXing: Xingxing, can I… see you?