The Long Road Ahead: C52

Chapter: 52 | New Member

• Previous
• Next
• ToC

New Member

---

This novel was posted on cntranslations [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

_{“Oh. I guess we’ll try another time, then.” Xiao Ning gave the matter no more thought, but Shan Haiming then added. “She was invited to a beauty salon by Chen Ying, and she’ll be having dinner with her later.”}
Shan Haiming also had his own room in that villa. It included a closet of neatly folded clothes, washed once but never worn, that smelled like the kind you’d find at a hotel.

“Oh. I guess we’ll try another time, then.” Xiao Ning gave the matter no more thought, but Shan Haiming then added. “She was invited to a beauty salon by Chen Ying, and she’ll be having dinner with her later.”

_{{Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that.} Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. {Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right?} “Then, about Ye Zixin...”}But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus. When Xiao Ning called Chen Shuyun, it was clear she was unsure of what to say and was thus a bit awkward, and she also never asked any questions about how Lu Yan was doing. Xiao Ning understood the reason well enough. After all, not only did they know nothing of Lu Yan’s romantic past, but the friend their son had grown up with had just come out as gay. For a rather traditional family like the Lus, such a turn of events can be quite worrying.

Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that. Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right? “Then, about Ye Zixin...”

_{But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”}Shan Haiming also had his own room in that villa. It included a closet of neatly folded clothes, washed once but never worn, that smelled like the kind you’d find at a hotel.

But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”

_{And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.}Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”

And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

_{Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.}
When Xiao Ning came out of the shower, Shan Haiming had already taken one in a guest room and was now bringing him a change of clothes. “Let’s go find someplace to eat.”

Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.

_{“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”}But Shan Haiming, of course, ignored those words and walked around the sofa to capture him. Tangtang may have sensed the nervousness of that captured human, so it no longer charged forward, standing far back and refusing to go closer.

“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”

_{But Shan Haiming neither denied nor confirmed his words in response, only moving to stand and helping Xiao Ning to his feet before he asked, “Where’d you like to go eat?”}“Oh, I got it from a friend of Wang Hua’s.” Shan Haiming then added disapprovingly, “His new wife doesn’t like dogs, so he couldn’t keep it after they got married, so he planned to give it to Wang Hua.”

But Shan Haiming neither denied nor confirmed his words in response, only moving to stand and helping Xiao Ning to his feet before he asked, “Where’d you like to go eat?”

_{What’s more, the Shan and Ye were both prominent families as well as enterprises, and not only did they announce an engagement in front of a mass of both industry insiders and outsiders, but they had even coupled it with a ten billion dollar project. So, the connection between the two just couldn’t fall to pieces on a whim.}
“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

What’s more, the Shan and Ye were both prominent families as well as enterprises, and not only did they announce an engagement in front of a mass of both industry insiders and outsiders, but they had even coupled it with a ten billion dollar project. So, the connection between the two just couldn’t fall to pieces on a whim.

_{Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”}Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”

_{After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.}
“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.

After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.

_{“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.}What’s more, the Shan and Ye were both prominent families as well as enterprises, and not only did they announce an engagement in front of a mass of both industry insiders and outsiders, but they had even coupled it with a ten billion dollar project. So, the connection between the two just couldn’t fall to pieces on a whim.

“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

_{“Whatever happens between her and my brother is no business of ours.” Shan Haiming then seemed as though he wanted to sigh. He caressed Xiao Ning’s face, then asked with dissatisfaction, “But why aren’t you mad?”}
“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”

“Whatever happens between her and my brother is no business of ours.” Shan Haiming then seemed as though he wanted to sigh. He caressed Xiao Ning’s face, then asked with dissatisfaction, “But why aren’t you mad?”

_{And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.}“Oh. I guess we’ll try another time, then.” Xiao Ning gave the matter no more thought, but Shan Haiming then added. “She was invited to a beauty salon by Chen Ying, and she’ll be having dinner with her later.”

And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

_{Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”}
“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”

Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”

_{Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”}“See, it’s okay.” Compared to the force holding his hand, Shan Haiming’s voice was light and crisp. The low coaxing way in which his youthful voice tapered stole all of Xiao Ning’s attention away with its gentleness, making it so he almost forgot there was currently a dog’s paw resting on his hand. He was neither grasping it nor letting it go, while a full blush bloomed on his face. “I understand...”

Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”

_{But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”}“Oh. I guess we’ll try another time, then.” Xiao Ning gave the matter no more thought, but Shan Haiming then added. “She was invited to a beauty salon by Chen Ying, and she’ll be having dinner with her later.”

But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”

_{“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”}After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.

“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

_{“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.}
Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that. Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right? “Then, about Ye Zixin...”

“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

_{Shan Haiming moved to sit on the bed, then motioned for Xiao Ning, who stopped talking and walked over to sit beside him.}
Shan Haiming moved to sit on the bed, then motioned for Xiao Ning, who stopped talking and walked over to sit beside him.

Shan Haiming moved to sit on the bed, then motioned for Xiao Ning, who stopped talking and walked over to sit beside him.

_{After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.}Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?

After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.

_{Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”}
“Whatever happens between her and my brother is no business of ours.” Shan Haiming then seemed as though he wanted to sigh. He caressed Xiao Ning’s face, then asked with dissatisfaction, “But why aren’t you mad?”

Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”

_{“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”}“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”

“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”

_◈◇◈
“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”

◈◇◈

_{“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.}It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.

_{Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.}
If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.

Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.

_{Shan Haiming also had his own room in that villa. It included a closet of neatly folded clothes, washed once but never worn, that smelled like the kind you’d find at a hotel.}
But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”

Shan Haiming also had his own room in that villa. It included a closet of neatly folded clothes, washed once but never worn, that smelled like the kind you’d find at a hotel.

_{Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.}Lu Yan responded with, “Alright, I get it.” His mood as of late seemed to be down in the dumps, and he always had an attitude of “I don’t want to talk to you” before he agreed and hung up.

Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.

_{Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.}“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.

_{Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that. Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right? “Then, about Ye Zixin...”}
“Hey, stop being silly.” Xiao Ning found his words extremely ridiculous and far too much of an over-exaggeration. What about that is supposed to make a person feel at ease, huh? “Besides, who would ever know to be on guard for something like that?”

Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that. Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right? “Then, about Ye Zixin...”

_{But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus.}Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.

But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus. When Xiao Ning called Chen Shuyun, it was clear she was unsure of what to say and was thus a bit awkward, and she also never asked any questions about how Lu Yan was doing. Xiao Ning understood the reason well enough. After all, not only did they know nothing of Lu Yan’s romantic past, but the friend their son had grown up with had just come out as gay. For a rather traditional family like the Lus, such a turn of events can be quite worrying.

_{Lu Yan responded with, “Alright, I get it.” His mood as of late seemed to be down in the dumps, and he always had an attitude of “I don’t want to talk to you” before he agreed and hung up.}“Sometimes I’ll be busy, so you’ll have to watch it for a bit. You have to do stuff like walking it; otherwise, we won’t be able to keep it. If it isn’t taken care of like that, it’ll eventually get depressed. And if it’s going to be like that, I guess I might as well take it to the shelter to be put down earlier rather than after it’s too late.” Shan Haiming led Xiao Ning by the arm, then looked back and called, “Tangtang.”

Lu Yan responded with, “Alright, I get it.” His mood as of late seemed to be down in the dumps, and he always had an attitude of “I don’t want to talk to you” before he agreed and hung up.

_{“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”}
But Shan Haiming neither denied nor confirmed his words in response, only moving to stand and helping Xiao Ning to his feet before he asked, “Where’d you like to go eat?”

“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”

_{Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: {Sit where?}}What’s more, the Shan and Ye were both prominent families as well as enterprises, and not only did they announce an engagement in front of a mass of both industry insiders and outsiders, but they had even coupled it with a ten billion dollar project. So, the connection between the two just couldn’t fall to pieces on a whim.

Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?

_{Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”}Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."

Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

_{“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”}Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”

“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

_{When Xiao Ning came out of the shower, Shan Haiming had already taken one in a guest room and was now bringing him a change of clothes. “Let’s go find someplace to eat.”}
“Jin’ge.” Xiao Ning was rather fond of the food at Jin’ge. Not only were their dishes of good quality and affordable enough to suit his lifestyle, but he also enjoyed dining there with Shan Haiming. He enjoyed the latter quite a lot, in fact. “Do you want to call Aunty to invite them, or will she and Uncle be eating at home?”

When Xiao Ning came out of the shower, Shan Haiming had already taken one in a guest room and was now bringing him a change of clothes. “Let’s go find someplace to eat.”

_{But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus.}“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”

But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus. When Xiao Ning called Chen Shuyun, it was clear she was unsure of what to say and was thus a bit awkward, and she also never asked any questions about how Lu Yan was doing. Xiao Ning understood the reason well enough. After all, not only did they know nothing of Lu Yan’s romantic past, but the friend their son had grown up with had just come out as gay. For a rather traditional family like the Lus, such a turn of events can be quite worrying.

_{But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”}Xiao Ning hesitated for a moment, not knowing what the proper response to give would be. So, for a good while, he simply sat there, wearing a smile. “Okay, then. So, do you want to head straight to Jin’ge?”

But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”

_{“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”}New Member

“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”

_{“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-ge?”}
When young people gathered among themselves, it was common for elders to not want to join in on the fun.

“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-ge?”

_{And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.}Xiao Ning hesitated for a moment, not knowing what the proper response to give would be. So, for a good while, he simply sat there, wearing a smile. “Okay, then. So, do you want to head straight to Jin’ge?”

And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

_{Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”}But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”

_{“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”}
“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”

“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

_{“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”}
“Oh. I guess we’ll try another time, then.” Xiao Ning gave the matter no more thought, but Shan Haiming then added. “She was invited to a beauty salon by Chen Ying, and she’ll be having dinner with her later.”

“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”

_{Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: {Sit where?}}“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?

_{If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.}“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.

_{But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.}
Xiao Ning hesitated for a moment, not knowing what the proper response to give would be. So, for a good while, he simply sat there, wearing a smile. “Okay, then. So, do you want to head straight to Jin’ge?”

But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

_{Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”}“Whatever happens between her and my brother is no business of ours.” Shan Haiming then seemed as though he wanted to sigh. He caressed Xiao Ning’s face, then asked with dissatisfaction, “But why aren’t you mad?”

Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”

_{Then, lowering his head, Xiao Ning looked at the gentle golden retriever he was holding. He knew Shan Haiming brought it here, intending to raise it.}And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

Then, lowering his head, Xiao Ning looked at the gentle golden retriever he was holding. He knew Shan Haiming brought it here, intending to raise it.

_{But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.}Tangtang: (smiles) Hi! Nice to meet you♥[]Xiaohei: (puffs fur) Get lost![]Shan Haiming: Come, touch it~[]Xiao Ning: (crumbles) Shoo!

But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.

_{New Member}
Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."

New Member

◈◇◈

_{Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.}
Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.

Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.

_{When Xiao Ning came out of the shower, Shan Haiming had already taken one in a guest room and was now bringing him a change of clothes. “Let’s go find someplace to eat.”}“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

When Xiao Ning came out of the shower, Shan Haiming had already taken one in a guest room and was now bringing him a change of clothes. “Let’s go find someplace to eat.”

_{If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.}
But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.

_{“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”}Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan. He asked him to ask Lu Anguo if he had finished taking all his Chinese medicine. He also asked him to ask the old couple if they liked the snacks he brought them last time and if they would like him to send them more.

“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

_{As man’s best friend, the intruding golden retriever was very eager, wagging its tail while wanting to get closer to Xiao Ning. But for Xiao Ning, it was all far too sudden, so with a blue face, he shuffled his slippers, backing up awkwardly.}When Xiao Ning came out of the shower, Shan Haiming had already taken one in a guest room and was now bringing him a change of clothes. “Let’s go find someplace to eat.”

As man’s best friend, the intruding golden retriever was very eager, wagging its tail while wanting to get closer to Xiao Ning. But for Xiao Ning, it was all far too sudden, so with a blue face, he shuffled his slippers, backing up awkwardly. But that peppy, not-so-little golden retriever thought he was playing tag, so it chased after him with its hanging tongue, panting heavily. Xiao Ning and the big dog scurried back and forth around the sofa. Until Xiao Ning turned around and saw an amused Shan Haiming. Then, for the first time ever, he shouted that man’s first name. “Shan Haiming!”

_{“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”}
What’s more, the Shan and Ye were both prominent families as well as enterprises, and not only did they announce an engagement in front of a mass of both industry insiders and outsiders, but they had even coupled it with a ten billion dollar project. So, the connection between the two just couldn’t fall to pieces on a whim.

“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”

_{Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan.}
The pressure was immense.

Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan. He asked him to ask Lu Anguo if he had finished taking all his Chinese medicine. He also asked him to ask the old couple if they liked the snacks he brought them last time and if they would like him to send them more.

_{Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."}
And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."

_{Then, lowering his head, Xiao Ning looked at the gentle golden retriever he was holding. He knew Shan Haiming brought it here, intending to raise it.}Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.

Then, lowering his head, Xiao Ning looked at the gentle golden retriever he was holding. He knew Shan Haiming brought it here, intending to raise it.

_{“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”}But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”

“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”

_{But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.}The pressure was immense.

But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

_{“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.}
Wu Yi must've also known about his relationship with Chen Ying, but she never brought up this matter in front of him—not even a hint. It was precisely this consideration and tactfulness that made her truly worthy of being Madam Shan.

“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.

_{But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus.}
But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus. When Xiao Ning called Chen Shuyun, it was clear she was unsure of what to say and was thus a bit awkward, and she also never asked any questions about how Lu Yan was doing. Xiao Ning understood the reason well enough. After all, not only did they know nothing of Lu Yan’s romantic past, but the friend their son had grown up with had just come out as gay. For a rather traditional family like the Lus, such a turn of events can be quite worrying.

But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus. When Xiao Ning called Chen Shuyun, it was clear she was unsure of what to say and was thus a bit awkward, and she also never asked any questions about how Lu Yan was doing. Xiao Ning understood the reason well enough. After all, not only did they know nothing of Lu Yan’s romantic past, but the friend their son had grown up with had just come out as gay. For a rather traditional family like the Lus, such a turn of events can be quite worrying.

_{“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-{ge}?”}Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."

“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-ge?”

_{It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.}When young people gathered among themselves, it was common for elders to not want to join in on the fun.

It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

_{So, after releasing its paw, he sighed, compromising: “But we’re keeping him at your house.”}
Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan. He asked him to ask Lu Anguo if he had finished taking all his Chinese medicine. He also asked him to ask the old couple if they liked the snacks he brought them last time and if they would like him to send them more.

So, after releasing its paw, he sighed, compromising: “But we’re keeping him at your house.”

_{“Sometimes I’ll be busy, so you’ll have to watch it for a bit. You have to do stuff like walking it; otherwise, we won’t be able to keep it.}So, after releasing its paw, he sighed, compromising: “But we’re keeping him at your house.”

“Sometimes I’ll be busy, so you’ll have to watch it for a bit. You have to do stuff like walking it; otherwise, we won’t be able to keep it. If it isn’t taken care of like that, it’ll eventually get depressed. And if it’s going to be like that, I guess I might as well take it to the shelter to be put down earlier rather than after it’s too late.” Shan Haiming led Xiao Ning by the arm, then looked back and called, “Tangtang.”

_{Tangtang, which was completely unaware of the tragic fate that may befall it, perked up its tail and bumbled towards the two men giddily, with not a worry in sight. While Xiao Ning felt his hair practically standing on end as the happy dog approached, thinking that the dog’s mouth would snap onto him with a bite.}
Lu Yan responded with, “Alright, I get it.” His mood as of late seemed to be down in the dumps, and he always had an attitude of “I don’t want to talk to you” before he agreed and hung up.

Tangtang, which was completely unaware of the tragic fate that may befall it, perked up its tail and bumbled towards the two men giddily, with not a worry in sight. While Xiao Ning felt his hair practically standing on end as the happy dog approached, thinking that the dog’s mouth would snap onto him with a bite.

_{But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”}
At all those years of feelings fading away to such a degree, even Xiao Ning felt helpless and saddened.

But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”

_{But Shan Haiming, of course, ignored those words and walked around the sofa to capture him. Tangtang may have sensed the nervousness of that captured human, so it no longer charged forward, standing far back and refusing to go closer.}
But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.

But Shan Haiming, of course, ignored those words and walked around the sofa to capture him. Tangtang may have sensed the nervousness of that captured human, so it no longer charged forward, standing far back and refusing to go closer.

_{Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan.}Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that. Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right? “Then, about Ye Zixin...”

Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan. He asked him to ask Lu Anguo if he had finished taking all his Chinese medicine. He also asked him to ask the old couple if they liked the snacks he brought them last time and if they would like him to send them more.

_{“Oh, I got it from a friend of Wang Hua’s.” Shan Haiming then added disapprovingly, “His new wife doesn’t like dogs, so he couldn’t keep it after they got married, so he planned to give it to Wang Hua.”}
Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.

“Oh, I got it from a friend of Wang Hua’s.” Shan Haiming then added disapprovingly, “His new wife doesn’t like dogs, so he couldn’t keep it after they got married, so he planned to give it to Wang Hua.”

_{“Sometimes I’ll be busy, so you’ll have to watch it for a bit. You have to do stuff like walking it; otherwise, we won’t be able to keep it.}
Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.

“Sometimes I’ll be busy, so you’ll have to watch it for a bit. You have to do stuff like walking it; otherwise, we won’t be able to keep it. If it isn’t taken care of like that, it’ll eventually get depressed. And if it’s going to be like that, I guess I might as well take it to the shelter to be put down earlier rather than after it’s too late.” Shan Haiming led Xiao Ning by the arm, then looked back and called, “Tangtang.”

_{Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.}
Resting his phone on the coffee table, Xiao Ning got up to change Xiaohei’s litter box. The second he got up, Xiaohei hopped up to claim his former seat. Then, after Xiao Ning came back, he found that little guy already curled up comfortably.

Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.

_{Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.}But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”

Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.

_{Wu Yi must've also known about his relationship with Chen Ying, but she never brought up this matter in front of him—not even a hint. It was precisely this consideration and tactfulness that made her truly worthy of being Madam Shan.}Then, lowering his head, Xiao Ning looked at the gentle golden retriever he was holding. He knew Shan Haiming brought it here, intending to raise it.

Wu Yi must've also known about his relationship with Chen Ying, but she never brought up this matter in front of him—not even a hint. It was precisely this consideration and tactfulness that made her truly worthy of being Madam Shan.

_{And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.}
It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

_{Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.}The pressure was immense.

Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.

_{“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”}
Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”

“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”

_{{Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.}}Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."

Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.

_{Xiao Ning, while being held by the arm, then said calmly, “So just keep it over by you.”}
A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. Where on earth did this dog come from?

Xiao Ning, while being held by the arm, then said calmly, “So just keep it over by you.”

_{{Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.}}It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.

_{Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”}But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”

_{It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.}
As man’s best friend, the intruding golden retriever was very eager, wagging its tail while wanting to get closer to Xiao Ning. But for Xiao Ning, it was all far too sudden, so with a blue face, he shuffled his slippers, backing up awkwardly. But that peppy, not-so-little golden retriever thought he was playing tag, so it chased after him with its hanging tongue, panting heavily. Xiao Ning and the big dog scurried back and forth around the sofa. Until Xiao Ning turned around and saw an amused Shan Haiming. Then, for the first time ever, he shouted that man’s first name. “Shan Haiming!”

It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

_{And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.}“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-ge?”

And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

_{A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. Where on earth did this dog come from?}
“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. Where on earth did this dog come from?

_{A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. {Where on earth did this dog come from?}}“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. Where on earth did this dog come from?

_{“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”}Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”

“I just beat him up a bit for my boyfriend’s sake. That’s all it was.” Shan Haiming didn’t so much as frown as he said this, his words spoken with an air of nonchalance. “Besides, this all happened because of the trouble caused by Zixin.”

_{“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”}“Oh, I got it from a friend of Wang Hua’s.” Shan Haiming then added disapprovingly, “His new wife doesn’t like dogs, so he couldn’t keep it after they got married, so he planned to give it to Wang Hua.”

“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”

_{Xiao Ning hesitated for a moment, not knowing what the proper response to give would be. So, for a good while, he simply sat there, wearing a smile. “Okay, then. So, do you want to head straight to Jin’ge?”}
And, with a wagging tail, that eager golden dog turned and happily jogged to Shan Haiming, rubbing against his legs and begging for him to rub its fur.

Xiao Ning hesitated for a moment, not knowing what the proper response to give would be. So, for a good while, he simply sat there, wearing a smile. “Okay, then. So, do you want to head straight to Jin’ge?”

_{“Jin’ge.” Xiao Ning was rather fond of the food at Jin’ge. Not only were their dishes of good quality and affordable enough to suit his lifestyle, but he also enjoyed dining there with Shan Haiming. He enjoyed the latter quite a lot, in fact. “Do you want to call Aunty to invite them, or will she and Uncle be eating at home?”}
Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”

“Jin’ge.” Xiao Ning was rather fond of the food at Jin’ge. Not only were their dishes of good quality and affordable enough to suit his lifestyle, but he also enjoyed dining there with Shan Haiming. He enjoyed the latter quite a lot, in fact. “Do you want to call Aunty to invite them, or will she and Uncle be eating at home?”

_{When young people gathered among themselves, it was common for elders to not want to join in on the fun.}Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.

When young people gathered among themselves, it was common for elders to not want to join in on the fun.

_{“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”}
“Oh, I got it from a friend of Wang Hua’s.” Shan Haiming then added disapprovingly, “His new wife doesn’t like dogs, so he couldn’t keep it after they got married, so he planned to give it to Wang Hua.”

“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

_{“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.}Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

“It’s not like they’re going to starve on their own,” Shan Haiming responded.

_{Seeing him lead the dog over to the sofa, Xiao Ning stepped back and sternly warned, “Don’t come over.”}
“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-ge?”

Seeing him lead the dog over to the sofa, Xiao Ning stepped back and sternly warned, “Don’t come over.”

_{But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.}
“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”

But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.

_{“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”}
“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”

_{Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”}But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.

Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

_{“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”}“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”

_{Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”}
Seeing him lead the dog over to the sofa, Xiao Ning stepped back and sternly warned, “Don’t come over.”

Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”

_{“Jin’ge.” Xiao Ning was rather fond of the food at Jin’ge. Not only were their dishes of good quality and affordable enough to suit his lifestyle, but he also enjoyed dining there with Shan Haiming. He enjoyed the latter quite a lot, in fact. “Do you want to call Aunty to invite them, or will she and Uncle be eating at home?”}New Member

“Jin’ge.” Xiao Ning was rather fond of the food at Jin’ge. Not only were their dishes of good quality and affordable enough to suit his lifestyle, but he also enjoyed dining there with Shan Haiming. He enjoyed the latter quite a lot, in fact. “Do you want to call Aunty to invite them, or will she and Uncle be eating at home?”

_{“See, it’s okay.” Compared to the force holding his hand, Shan Haiming’s voice was light and crisp.}
But Shan Haiming, of course, ignored those words and walked around the sofa to capture him. Tangtang may have sensed the nervousness of that captured human, so it no longer charged forward, standing far back and refusing to go closer.

“See, it’s okay.” Compared to the force holding his hand, Shan Haiming’s voice was light and crisp. The low coaxing way in which his youthful voice tapered stole all of Xiao Ning’s attention away with its gentleness, making it so he almost forgot there was currently a dog’s paw resting on his hand. He was neither grasping it nor letting it go, while a full blush bloomed on his face. “I understand...”

_{“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”}Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?

“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”

_{But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.}“I’ll ask.” Shan Haiming pulled out his phone and called Wu Yi, but his mood shifted a bit when he hung up. “She has plans.”

But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

_{Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”}Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

Xiao Ning, who was given a fright, then asked nervously from behind the sofa. “Why do you have a dog? Where did it come from?”

_{At all those years of feelings fading away to such a degree, even Xiao Ning felt helpless and saddened.}
Xiao Ning, while being held by the arm, then said calmly, “So just keep it over by you.”

At all those years of feelings fading away to such a degree, even Xiao Ning felt helpless and saddened.

_{Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?}
“Sometimes I’ll be busy, so you’ll have to watch it for a bit. You have to do stuff like walking it; otherwise, we won’t be able to keep it. If it isn’t taken care of like that, it’ll eventually get depressed. And if it’s going to be like that, I guess I might as well take it to the shelter to be put down earlier rather than after it’s too late.” Shan Haiming led Xiao Ning by the arm, then looked back and called, “Tangtang.”

Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?

_{“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”}“Mad?” Xiao Ning couldn’t stop the chuckle from escaping him. “Why should I be mad?”

“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

_{But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”}And even then, Wu Yi was still the same as ever, acting as though she knew none of it and everyone was still a close family. Honestly, Xiao Ning was impressed by this skill of hers.

But the way Shan Haiming looked at him was serious, and then, without any trace of unwillingness or reluctance, he shook his head and said, “If I take my eye off of you for a second, something bad happens. Are you nine years old?”

_{Resting his phone on the coffee table, Xiao Ning got up to change Xiaohei’s litter box. The second he got up, Xiaohei hopped up to claim his former seat. Then, after Xiao Ning came back, he found that little guy already curled up comfortably.}
Tangtang, which was completely unaware of the tragic fate that may befall it, perked up its tail and bumbled towards the two men giddily, with not a worry in sight. While Xiao Ning felt his hair practically standing on end as the happy dog approached, thinking that the dog’s mouth would snap onto him with a bite.

Resting his phone on the coffee table, Xiao Ning got up to change Xiaohei’s litter box. The second he got up, Xiaohei hopped up to claim his former seat. Then, after Xiao Ning came back, he found that little guy already curled up comfortably.

_{“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”}As man’s best friend, the intruding golden retriever was very eager, wagging its tail while wanting to get closer to Xiao Ning. But for Xiao Ning, it was all far too sudden, so with a blue face, he shuffled his slippers, backing up awkwardly. But that peppy, not-so-little golden retriever thought he was playing tag, so it chased after him with its hanging tongue, panting heavily. Xiao Ning and the big dog scurried back and forth around the sofa. Until Xiao Ning turned around and saw an amused Shan Haiming. Then, for the first time ever, he shouted that man’s first name. “Shan Haiming!”

“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

_{Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."}Xiao Ning wasn’t concerned about himself being put in an awkward position, but he did worry about making Chen Shuyun feel uncomfortable. So, from then on, he stopped calling her for the time being and instead relayed all his concerns to Lu Yan. He asked him to ask Lu Anguo if he had finished taking all his Chinese medicine. He also asked him to ask the old couple if they liked the snacks he brought them last time and if they would like him to send them more.

Seeing he no longer wanted to say anything else concerning that matter, Shan Haiming also regarded Chen Ying as no pressing matter and tucked his phone away before walking Xiao Ning out the door."

_{The pressure was immense.}
Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

The pressure was immense.

_{“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”}“Wang Hua did take this guy in for a few days, but it turned out Yating is allergic to dogs.” Shan Haiming shrugged, then crouched down to scratch Tangtang’s neck, creating a rather harmonious scene. Xiao Ning and Xiaohei looked at the two with a high degree of vigilance, as Xiao Ning then went on to say, “So... that means what? How many days will you be keeping it for?”

“That’s not what I mean. I’m talking about...” Xiao Ning folded the used towel and rested it on the side. “What’s going on between you and your brother? Are you just going to fight with him like this?”

_{A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. {Where on earth did this dog come from?}}“What about them?” Xiao Ning got dressed. “Is that going to be alright?”

A flash of yellow darting into the room made Xiao Ning jump in fright. One human and one cat shared the same instant and unprecedented reaction. Xiaohei let out a threatened and screeching hiss before bolting to the highest level of his cat tree. And even its master wanted to find a place to climb up, too. Where on earth did this dog come from?

_{Wu Yi must've also known about his relationship with Chen Ying, but she never brought up this matter in front of him—not even a hint. It was precisely this consideration and tactfulness that made her truly worthy of being Madam Shan.}
Xiao Ning nervously looked at him, asking with his eyes while confused: Sit where?

Wu Yi must've also known about his relationship with Chen Ying, but she never brought up this matter in front of him—not even a hint. It was precisely this consideration and tactfulness that made her truly worthy of being Madam Shan.

_{When young people gathered among themselves, it was common for elders to not want to join in on the fun.}
But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”

When young people gathered among themselves, it was common for elders to not want to join in on the fun.

_{iana: the little cutie finally arrived!}
Anyhow, Tangtang was now sitting in front of the two obediently, and even Xiao Ning had to admit the dog was indeed well-trained. But the second Shan Haiming guided his hand towards that obedient hound, his admiration and curiosity got pushed back down rather quickly. “Hold on! Hey, let go!”

iana: the little cutie finally arrived!

_{But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”}Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.

But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”

_{If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.}After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.

If someone kicks or curses, even if he wants to get mad, he won’t get a chance.

_{Lu Yan responded with, “Alright, I get it.” His mood as of late seemed to be down in the dumps, and he always had an attitude of “I don’t want to talk to you” before he agreed and hung up.}
Sadly, none of this skin-deep adamant act of his had any effect on Shan Haiming. Both his and his waist were held firmly, so there was no chance of him breaking away and fleeing. Strength-wise, he was no match for Shan Haiming, so he could only watch as his hand was led closer and closer to the golden-haired dog.

Lu Yan responded with, “Alright, I get it.” His mood as of late seemed to be down in the dumps, and he always had an attitude of “I don’t want to talk to you” before he agreed and hung up.

_{It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.}“Tangtang is very well trained.” Shan Haiming stood up. “So there’s no need for you to be afraid of him. I swear.”

It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

_{Tangtang: (smiles) Hi! Nice to meet you♥[]Xiaohei: (puffs fur) Get lost![]Shan Haiming: Come, touch it~[]Xiao Ning: (crumbles) Shoo!}
After it sat before him, Tangtang cocked its head to the side to stare at the two humans who were hugging tight. Then, upon seeing the hand placed in front of it, it happily lifted its paw to rest on top of it while its tail wagged hard like it was going to break.

Tangtang: (smiles) Hi! Nice to meet you♥[]Xiaohei: (puffs fur) Get lost![]Shan Haiming: Come, touch it~[]Xiao Ning: (crumbles) Shoo!

_{But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”}
“See, it’s okay.” Compared to the force holding his hand, Shan Haiming’s voice was light and crisp. The low coaxing way in which his youthful voice tapered stole all of Xiao Ning’s attention away with its gentleness, making it so he almost forgot there was currently a dog’s paw resting on his hand. He was neither grasping it nor letting it go, while a full blush bloomed on his face. “I understand...”

But upon seeing his appearance, Shan Haiming couldn’t stop himself from erupting in laughter. “I didn’t mean you.”

_{{Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that.} Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. {Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right?} “Then, about Ye Zixin...”}“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

Okay, I guess it makes sense when it’s explained like that. Xiao Ning felt as though he couldn’t understand this family’s line of thinking. Anyhow, it seemed like whatever they do all works out, right? “Then, about Ye Zixin...”

_{But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus.}“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

But Xiao Ning didn’t have it in him to worry about the matters of the Shan family without end, given that they were well beyond his expertise. He also didn’t have it in him to do the same when it came to the Lus. When Xiao Ning called Chen Shuyun, it was clear she was unsure of what to say and was thus a bit awkward, and she also never asked any questions about how Lu Yan was doing. Xiao Ning understood the reason well enough. After all, not only did they know nothing of Lu Yan’s romantic past, but the friend their son had grown up with had just come out as gay. For a rather traditional family like the Lus, such a turn of events can be quite worrying.

_{“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.}It liked sleeping next to Xiao Ning more than it did in its fancy bed, and Xiao Ning didn’t mind it either. Seeing the little thing lying there so peacefully, he went to sit right next to it.

“Tangtang, come.” Shan Haiming whistled.

_{As man’s best friend, the intruding golden retriever was very eager, wagging its tail while wanting to get closer to Xiao Ning. But for Xiao Ning, it was all far too sudden, so with a blue face, he shuffled his slippers, backing up awkwardly.}
Then, lowering his head, Xiao Ning looked at the gentle golden retriever he was holding. He knew Shan Haiming brought it here, intending to raise it.

As man’s best friend, the intruding golden retriever was very eager, wagging its tail while wanting to get closer to Xiao Ning. But for Xiao Ning, it was all far too sudden, so with a blue face, he shuffled his slippers, backing up awkwardly. But that peppy, not-so-little golden retriever thought he was playing tag, so it chased after him with its hanging tongue, panting heavily. Xiao Ning and the big dog scurried back and forth around the sofa. Until Xiao Ning turned around and saw an amused Shan Haiming. Then, for the first time ever, he shouted that man’s first name. “Shan Haiming!”

_{But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.}But, according to Shan Haiming, the wedding date had been set for National Day on October 1st, and the honeymoon location had also been decided; they were heading to Greece. So, as far as it appeared, everything between the two was going smoothly.

But if he had to choose between one situation or the other, he would still choose the current one without a second of hesitance. He was not willing to break up with Shan Haiming to go along with Lu Yan’s wishes. He was even less likely to hurt some girl by putting on a farce of love. Lastly, about his sexuality, he was not going to ask Lu Yan to lie for his sake.

_{Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”}Tangtang, which was completely unaware of the tragic fate that may befall it, perked up its tail and bumbled towards the two men giddily, with not a worry in sight. While Xiao Ning felt his hair practically standing on end as the happy dog approached, thinking that the dog’s mouth would snap onto him with a bite.

Hearing a noise at the door, Xiao Ning looked that way. “Oh, you’re back—what is this?!”

_{{Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.}}What’s more, the Shan and Ye were both prominent families as well as enterprises, and not only did they announce an engagement in front of a mass of both industry insiders and outsiders, but they had even coupled it with a ten billion dollar project. So, the connection between the two just couldn’t fall to pieces on a whim.

Things will be fine like this, won’t they? After all, the best solution for things like this is time. Maybe, after a few years, their reactions will no longer be as strong.

_{Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”}
So, after releasing its paw, he sighed, compromising: “But we’re keeping him at your house.”

Shan Haiming grabbed Xiao Ning’s hand and said bluntly, “Sit.”

_{“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-{ge}?”}Thinking as such, Xiao Ning consoled himself. It was the only thing he could do, after all.

“Okay, but that doesn’t explain why it’s here?” Xiao Ning froze, crumbling, as he then asked, “What happened with Wang-ge?”

_{Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.}“Oh. I guess we’ll try another time, then.” Xiao Ning gave the matter no more thought, but Shan Haiming then added. “She was invited to a beauty salon by Chen Ying, and she’ll be having dinner with her later.”

Following the incident at the pool, Xiao Ning and Ye Zixin’s odds of bumping into one another had hit rock bottom. Not because he intended to avoid her, but because it looked as though things between her and Shan Haihong had changed. As a result, the occasions Ye Zixin visited the Shan household were now few and far between.

---

Author's Note:

Tangtang: (smiles) Hi! Nice to meet you♥

Xiaohei: (puffs fur) Get lost!

Shan Haiming: Come, touch it~

Xiao Ning: (crumbles) Shoo!

Notes:

iana: the little cutie finally arrived!

• Previous
• Next
• ToC