Chapter 59
If audio player doesn't work, press Stop then Play button again
Her heart that had been tensed for several days finally relaxed completely. Lu Zhiqiao was relieved, but she also found that confessing her feelings would not make her lose her sense of security.
She has been going around in the maze for too long, and the way back has disappeared, so she can only keep walking with fear and apprehension, but she did not expect to go out like this.
Outside, there is a wider world, which is also full of a strange atmosphere.
The pitiful emotional experience is not enough to teach her how to deal with intimacy. She stumbles like a headless chicken. After realizing that she has fallen unconsciously, she does not feel half joy and sweetness. On the contrary, she panics because of confusion, anxiousness, and overwhelming feelings.
Before she learned how to savor the throbbing, she fell into Qi Yan's gentle trap.
This person is everywhere, affecting her emotions all the time, controlling her thoughts, disturbing her mind, she finally couldn't bear it, and confessed. But she couldn't give Qi Yan a reciprocal response, even if she faced her heart directly, she couldn't start a relationship hastily.
Contrary to her, Qi Yan was dazzled by the sudden joy, as if she had fulfilled what she often said to herself: When you lower your expectations to the lowest, surprises will come to you.
Don't expect anything tonight.
She was just disgusted by what happened during the day, and she felt uncomfortable. When she saw someone she liked, she couldn't hold back, thinking that it would be okay for her to confide her sincerity even if she didn't get a response, and said it all at once.
The surprise came unexpectedly.
Like a huge cookie falling from the sky, it made her dizzy and lost her way.
Qiao Qiao said she cares about her? Says she likes her? She finally…
...just confessed to her?
She has fantasized about this scene in front of her countless times, it is all madness and joy, but when this moment really came, after listening to what Lu Zhiqiao said in the latter part, the joy in her heart turned into sourness, and her heart suddenly throbbed.
"Qiao Qiao."
"Mm."
A muffled voice came from the back of the neck.
Qi Yan caressed her back lightly, rubbing her palms, and said softly: "You don't need to give me anything, you just need to stand in front of me and wait for me to hug you and love you."
At first she was just thinking of playing around, teasing Lu Zhiqiao to add some fun to life. Eventually, she fell into it, wanted to chase, and gradually regarded the chase as a game. Lu Zhiqiao is undoubtedly the top level boss, strictly guarding against her, difficult to conquer. Later, she found that Lu Zhiqiao had already removed her soft shell, revealing the soft heart inside, but she still couldn't get close.
Things that are within reach, may seem to be one step away, but are actually far away.
It is not difficult to get someone who's already been unconsciously tempted. But, the most difficult thing is to hold on to them and be consistent. Once a person like Lu Zhiqiao falls in love, it will be with all her heart and soul, so she can't let her down easily.
It is only natural to be cautious with treasures, and it is not enough to make promises, it will take time to prove herself.
Qi Yan understood.
Qiao Qiao gave her a green light, she is no longer a blind person groping in the dark. If their feelings are unequal, then she is willing to be the one who gives more.
"I can't..." Lu Zhiqiao whispered.
Lu Zhiqiao confessed all her thoughts, at this point. She didn't think about hiding anything, she simply made it clear to Qi Yan, the choice is up to the woman, before they get too deep. If Qi Yan feels that they are not suitable after weighing it all, she can accept it with peace of mind. It is better than being so unclear and stringing her along in vain.
"Qi Yan, listen to me."
Lu Zhiqiao took a deep breath, pulled away from Qi Yan's arms, looked at her seriously, and said word by word: "The two of us are not compatible in any way. What I am emphasizing here is not about material things, but the things beyond that, the invisible things."
"Actually, we are the opposite of each other. You may think that I am good everywhere now, but if we stay together for a long time, you will get tired of me one day. I am very boring, and the interpersonal relationships I can handle are limited to friends, colleagues, superiors and subordinates. I can't let myself completely trust a person, because once I lose the trust, I also lose the initiative."
"You see, I am a workaholic. Yes, I put my heart and soul into my work and it gives me equal returns. Similarly, if it gives me returns, I will work harder. It is a virtuous cycle."
"Everything has both positive and negative sides. A relationship cannot be sustained only by the unilateral contribution of a single person. It is your business, if you are willing to hug me and love me, but I won't be able to give you hugs or love. If one of us can't handle ' each other's business' well, the relationship will break down."
"Moreover, life is not only about passion; plainness and stability is its true color."
She's been alone for too long.
She realized very early on that the most reliable person is herself, so she has hardly suffered any loss in interpersonal relationships. This is a double-edged sword that protects her, but it also hurts herself.
Rather than betting on unsure feelings, it is better to stay where she is. No gain, no loss. A lifetime of peace and stability.
Time to be honest with each other tonight.
Lu Zhiqiao talked a lot, and threw out what was in her heart without any scruples. It was shameful in the past, but she cared about Qi Yan, so she had to say it. Qi Yan is so nice, how could she have the heart to let the other party hold on to her in vain.
But soon, as an afterthought, she realized that she was more like accusing, demanding, and complaining.
Lu Zhiqiao curled up her fingers, her palms were wet with thin sweat, and speaking her heart didn't make her feel relaxed, on the contrary, she became more nervous. She pretended to look calmly into Qi Yan's eyes, but her heart was beating like a drum.
"But you like me."
One sentence that easily defeated all.
Lu Zhiqiao froze.
"Qiao Qiao..." Qi Yan grabbed her hands and raised the corners of her mouth, "Your existence and your liking are the greatest happiness for me."
"Emotions require rationality, but don't be too rational. We're not doing math problems, nor analyzing the market. Just follow your heart."
Lu Zhiqiao's lashes trembled, and the dark mole at the corner of her eye was vividly pitiful, as if they were about to fall down at any time. She murmured: "I can't...I'm not ready yet...I can't do it..."
Having said that, her heart was relieved.
"It's okay." Qi Yan smiled softly, and leaned over to hug her, "It's good that you are by my side, as it is now, I am very satisfied."
Emotional matters can't be rushed, especially for a treasure like Lu Zhiqiao, every move, word and deed must be clearly grasped. At least she saw hope today, then the rest is only a matter of time.
One day, they will completely belong to each other.
Lu Zhiqiao turned soft in Qi Yan's arms, subconsciously hugging her waist, clasping her fingers together, twirling the hair hanging down her waist, burying her face against the woman's shoulder, and inhaling her scent.
The crescent wall lamp is dim, and the hazy light lingers ambiguously.
"Qiao Qiao."
"Mm?"
"You looked so handsome* today."
*she used the word 帅 (shuai) that means handsome, but can also mean cool, depending on the context
"What?"
"When you stood up for me." Qi Yan tilted her head and rubbed her cheek against her ear.
Lu Zhiqiao tightened her arms and said softly, "I don't want others to bully you. And...you were very protective of me before."
"Because you are worth it."
Soft kisses fell on her hair.
Behind Qi Yan's invisible shoulders, Lu Zhiqiao was blushing, and her ears were scorched from rubbing. She pursed her lips and said nothing.
….
After sitting until almost ten o'clock, Lu Zhiqiao went back, and before leaving, Qi Yan gave her a small toy.
She almost pulled out her hair.
Qi Yan took a shower, tidied up briefly, went into the study, turned on the light, took out her teacher qualification certificate from the drawer, held it in her hand and studied it carefully.
It was palm-sized with a reddish-brown cover.
When she took this certificate, she poured her heart and soul into it with enthusiasm. The first time she got the certificate, she shared her joy to her mentor, thinking she could keep going on this path forever.
Time passes and people change. Today wasn't the straw that broke the camel's back.
Her colleagues also experience a lot of negative energy, but they are all persisting, because teachers are well-established, stable, and decent. Being a teacher is an honorable profession in the eyes of many traditional elders. Some people have no choice, but there are also people who love the profession, they are heroes in her eyes.
She has no enthusiasm anymore, and she doesn't care about being a hero.
But it's not that easy to quit, she can still bear it, and her sense of responsibility forces her not to just leave. At least she could finish this class and see Niu Niu graduate with her own eyes.
She'll hold on a little longer.
Qi Yan let out a heavy sigh, threw the certificate back into the drawer, and turned off the light.
The cloudy and rainy day lasted for a whole week, and the clouds above Jiangcheng were finally blown away by the wind. The long-lost and warm sunshine ushered in, and the temperature rose sharply.
Lu Zhiqiao came back from the field early in the morning and rushed to the company. They held meetings nonstop all morning, not only from her own department, but also from high-level people. Because Shu Minxi was not around recently, all the affairs in the company were entrusted to her. She was already busy, but now it was even more miserable.
Anyone with a discerning eye can tell that the higher ups intend to promote her. There have been signs of promotion since last year, and they have found a reason this year, but they don't know when she will be promoted.
Several directors are calm on the surface, but behind the dark tide, the small staff below were quietly gossiping.
"This is the real 'three women in one play'."
"What do you mean?"
"Chairman Gu, GM Shu, Director Lu, from top to bottom, they are neat and tidy. It's a pity that Manager Chi has resigned. If she is here, it will be 'Four Stars'."
"Ahahahaha..."
"Hey, I heard that Manager Chi was forced to leave by Director Lu."
"Ah?"
"Manager Chi is pregnant. As soon as she told Director Lu, she resigned within half a month. She resigned unwillingly. She was forced not to do anything else. The law stipulates that pregnant women cannot be dismissed, so she voluntarily resigned."
"Nonsense, I'm in the sales department. During that time, I saw her vomit in the toilet every day, and there was often no one in the office. It was her assistant who was busy with work. When I asked, she said that Manager Chi was not feeling well, or asked for leave. Who can stand that?."
"How come the version I heard is that Manager Chi deliberately sabotaged Director Lu?!"
"Hahaha, why don't you just write a script."
It was just lunch break and the anonymous gossip group was chatting away.
When Lu Zhiqiao returned to the office, she received a call from Shu Minxi, asking her to go to xx Japanese restaurant near the company and asking her to have dinner.
She is exhausted by the heavy workload, but fortunately, her boss came back at this time. She knew that she could finally take a breath, so she agreed wholeheartedly, explained a few words to her assistant, and simply cleaned up.
The restaurant is not far away, five or six minutes walk.
The dishes had been served when Lu Zhiqiao entered and Shu Minxi had already opened the meal boxes. The woman was holding a cup, drinking alone. Lu Zhiqiao doesn't know how much she drank, but her cheeks are a little red, and her eyes are wandering and blurred.
"I'm here." She smiled at Lu Zhiqiao, "Have a seat."
Lu Zhiqiao sat across from her, looked around, and asked, "Where's Miss Aoki?"
"She went back to Japan."
"..."
It seemed that it was not an appropriate time to discuss private matters at this meal.
Lu Zhiqiao bowed her head in silence, took a sip of the tea on the table, and ate the tempura that she was more comfortable with first. Shu Minxi looked at her quietly and asked, "They didn't make things difficult for you, did they?"
"No." She shook her head.
It is inevitable that some people will be dissatisfied with her using power without occupying a high position. Anyone who can get into the position of director is not a fuel-efficient lamp. Among a group of old men, she is the only woman, but she is not afraid.
Just tired.
She can't hold on any longer.
Lu Zhiqiao raised her eyes and opened her mouth, wanting to ask Shu Minxi if she's done handling the matters over there and if she could come back. The latter seemed to see through her thoughts, and sighed helplessly: "It's still not good, I can't do without someone, and I don't feel at ease to hand it over to anyone."
"..."
The chairman is sick again.
Shu Minxi has been taking care of her personally for so many years. What Lu Zhiqiao can't understand is that they are not relatives, but their friendship is so deep. It has reached the point where it is beyond the scope of friends or even lovers, and it is more like a family.
Everyone has a story.
"Hold on for a while, half a month at most." Shu Minxi apologized.
Lu Zhiqiao smiled reassuringly: "It's okay, don't worry, I can handle things in the company."
Shu Minxi didn't say the second half of the sentence.
At most half a month, if the chairman can get better, then they will be better, if she can't, then they will see each other at the funeral. By that time, the top management will usher in a big reshuffle.
Lu Zhiqiao almost ate all the tempura, feeling half full, but the rest didn't move, it seemed a little shameless, so she ate a little of each. Neither of them spoke, fearing that opening their mouths would be heavy and unpleasant.
"By the way, Ms. Shu..."
"Can't change it?"
"Sister Minxi."
The woman smiled and gestured for her to speak.
"I want to ask you a few more personal questions." Lu Zhiqiao said seriously.
Shu Minxi raised her eyebrows, and said in a joking tone: "Single, 38 years old in the second half of the year, has a love history, and was stalked by an ex-girlfriend."
"..."
"No more teasing, ask away." She smiled.
Lu Zhiqiao pursed her lips, lowered her eyes halfway, and said solemnly: "If a person likes you and treats you well, how do you repay her?"
"Do you like the other party?" Shu Minxi asked back.
Not waiting for Lu Zhiqiao to answer, she coughed low twice and continued, "If you don't like them, you don't have to reciprocate, just clearly reject the other and live separately afterwards, without interfering with each other."
"...If I like them?"
"Being together is the best reward."
Lu Zhiqiao paused and her heart trembled as if she had been electrocuted, and she murmured, "Isn't that too reckless?"
There are not many friends around her whom she can talk about this problem. She chose Shu Minxi because she has the same orientation and the other party has love experience, but this problem goes around and around, and finally returns to the original point.
The origin of her confusion.
"In love?" Shu Minxi raised her eyebrows.
"No."
"Confused?"
"..."
Why is this the same as what Wen Zilong said that day?
Such topics are easier to talk about, and the heavy atmosphere just now was swept away. Shu Minxi is also really tired these days, it is rare to listen to her speak a few words, so she became interested. After all, she is a subordinate and a friend whom she single-handedly promoted.
"We have a lot to consider at this age. It is impossible to dare to try everything like when we were young. But if you think there is no problem after all consideration, just go ahead and try. Don't be too harsh on yourself. Don't wait until you lose it to realize how important it is... "
Lu Zhiqiao's eyelashes trembled, she stopped chewing, and stared at her blankly.
Lose?
….
As it got late, the waning moon climbed into the night.
Qi Yan was sitting in the living room watching TV, waiting for Lu Zhiqiao to come back. That person worked overtime today, so she ate dinner with Niu Niu first. The other dishes had already gone cold, but the rice is still in the cooker, keeping it warm.
She glanced at the screen of her phone. Ten minutes ago, Lu Zhiqiao sent a message saying that she had just left the company.
There is no traffic jam at this point, and it takes about ten minutes to arrive.
She got ready to serve hot dishes.
The lingerie catwalk show was playing on the TV, and the tall and long-legged models took turns wearing well-designed underwear on the stage. Qi Yan put down the remote control, stood up and stretched, and a familiar face flashed across her sight.
She froze and looked carefully.
The shot happened to cut to the auditorium, and after a few seconds, it cut back and gave a close-up of the model's face.
Qi Yan's eyes widened.
Author's Note:
A new character is about to debut, let’s guess hahaha~
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Her heart that had been tensed for several days finally relaxed completely. Lu Zhiqiao was relieved, but she also found that confessing her feelings would not make her lose her sense of security.
She has been going around in the maze for too long, and the way back has disappeared, so she can only keep walking with fear and apprehension, but she did not expect to go out like this.
Outside, there is a wider world, which is also full of a strange atmosphere.
The pitiful emotional experience is not enough to teach her how to deal with intimacy. She stumbles like a headless chicken. After realizing that she has fallen unconsciously, she does not feel half joy and sweetness. On the contrary, she panics because of confusion, anxiousness, and overwhelming feelings.
Before she learned how to savor the throbbing, she fell into Qi Yan's gentle trap.
This person is everywhere, affecting her emotions all the time, controlling her thoughts, disturbing her mind, she finally couldn't bear it, and confessed. But she couldn't give Qi Yan a reciprocal response, even if she faced her heart directly, she couldn't start a relationship hastily.
Contrary to her, Qi Yan was dazzled by the sudden joy, as if she had fulfilled what she often said to herself: When you lower your expectations to the lowest, surprises will come to you.
Don't expect anything tonight.
She was just disgusted by what happened during the day, and she felt uncomfortable. When she saw someone she liked, she couldn't hold back, thinking that it would be okay for her to confide her sincerity even if she didn't get a response, and said it all at once.
The surprise came unexpectedly.
Like a huge cookie falling from the sky, it made her dizzy and lost her way.
Qiao Qiao said she cares about her? Says she likes her? She finally…
...just confessed to her?
She has fantasized about this scene in front of her countless times, it is all madness and joy, but when this moment really came, after listening to what Lu Zhiqiao said in the latter part, the joy in her heart turned into sourness, and her heart suddenly throbbed.
"Qiao Qiao."
"Mm."
A muffled voice came from the back of the neck.
Qi Yan caressed her back lightly, rubbing her palms, and said softly: "You don't need to give me anything, you just need to stand in front of me and wait for me to hug you and love you."
At first she was just thinking of playing around, teasing Lu Zhiqiao to add some fun to life. Eventually, she fell into it, wanted to chase, and gradually regarded the chase as a game. Lu Zhiqiao is undoubtedly the top level boss, strictly guarding against her, difficult to conquer. Later, she found that Lu Zhiqiao had already removed her soft shell, revealing the soft heart inside, but she still couldn't get close.
Things that are within reach, may seem to be one step away, but are actually far away.
It is not difficult to get someone who's already been unconsciously tempted. But, the most difficult thing is to hold on to them and be consistent. Once a person like Lu Zhiqiao falls in love, it will be with all her heart and soul, so she can't let her down easily.
It is only natural to be cautious with treasures, and it is not enough to make promises, it will take time to prove herself.
Qi Yan understood.
Qiao Qiao gave her a green light, she is no longer a blind person groping in the dark. If their feelings are unequal, then she is willing to be the one who gives more.
"I can't..." Lu Zhiqiao whispered.
Lu Zhiqiao confessed all her thoughts, at this point. She didn't think about hiding anything, she simply made it clear to Qi Yan, the choice is up to the woman, before they get too deep. If Qi Yan feels that they are not suitable after weighing it all, she can accept it with peace of mind. It is better than being so unclear and stringing her along in vain.
"Qi Yan, listen to me."
Lu Zhiqiao took a deep breath, pulled away from Qi Yan's arms, looked at her seriously, and said word by word: "The two of us are not compatible in any way. What I am emphasizing here is not about material things, but the things beyond that, the invisible things."
"Actually, we are the opposite of each other. You may think that I am good everywhere now, but if we stay together for a long time, you will get tired of me one day. I am very boring, and the interpersonal relationships I can handle are limited to friends, colleagues, superiors and subordinates. I can't let myself completely trust a person, because once I lose the trust, I also lose the initiative."
"You see, I am a workaholic. Yes, I put my heart and soul into my work and it gives me equal returns. Similarly, if it gives me returns, I will work harder. It is a virtuous cycle."
"Everything has both positive and negative sides. A relationship cannot be sustained only by the unilateral contribution of a single person. It is your business, if you are willing to hug me and love me, but I won't be able to give you hugs or love. If one of us can't handle ' each other's business' well, the relationship will break down."
"Moreover, life is not only about passion; plainness and stability is its true color."
She's been alone for too long.
She realized very early on that the most reliable person is herself, so she has hardly suffered any loss in interpersonal relationships. This is a double-edged sword that protects her, but it also hurts herself.
Rather than betting on unsure feelings, it is better to stay where she is. No gain, no loss. A lifetime of peace and stability.
Time to be honest with each other tonight.
Lu Zhiqiao talked a lot, and threw out what was in her heart without any scruples. It was shameful in the past, but she cared about Qi Yan, so she had to say it. Qi Yan is so nice, how could she have the heart to let the other party hold on to her in vain.
But soon, as an afterthought, she realized that she was more like accusing, demanding, and complaining.
Lu Zhiqiao curled up her fingers, her palms were wet with thin sweat, and speaking her heart didn't make her feel relaxed, on the contrary, she became more nervous. She pretended to look calmly into Qi Yan's eyes, but her heart was beating like a drum.
"But you like me."
One sentence that easily defeated all.
Lu Zhiqiao froze.
"Qiao Qiao..." Qi Yan grabbed her hands and raised the corners of her mouth, "Your existence and your liking are the greatest happiness for me."
"Emotions require rationality, but don't be too rational. We're not doing math problems, nor analyzing the market. Just follow your heart."
Lu Zhiqiao's lashes trembled, and the dark mole at the corner of her eye was vividly pitiful, as if they were about to fall down at any time. She murmured: "I can't...I'm not ready yet...I can't do it..."
Having said that, her heart was relieved.
"It's okay." Qi Yan smiled softly, and leaned over to hug her, "It's good that you are by my side, as it is now, I am very satisfied."
Emotional matters can't be rushed, especially for a treasure like Lu Zhiqiao, every move, word and deed must be clearly grasped. At least she saw hope today, then the rest is only a matter of time.
One day, they will completely belong to each other.
Lu Zhiqiao turned soft in Qi Yan's arms, subconsciously hugging her waist, clasping her fingers together, twirling the hair hanging down her waist, burying her face against the woman's shoulder, and inhaling her scent.
The crescent wall lamp is dim, and the hazy light lingers ambiguously.
"Qiao Qiao."
"Mm?"
"You looked so handsome* today."
*she used the word 帅 (shuai) that means handsome, but can also mean cool, depending on the context
"What?"
"When you stood up for me." Qi Yan tilted her head and rubbed her cheek against her ear.
Lu Zhiqiao tightened her arms and said softly, "I don't want others to bully you. And...you were very protective of me before."
"Because you are worth it."
Soft kisses fell on her hair.
Behind Qi Yan's invisible shoulders, Lu Zhiqiao was blushing, and her ears were scorched from rubbing. She pursed her lips and said nothing.
….
After sitting until almost ten o'clock, Lu Zhiqiao went back, and before leaving, Qi Yan gave her a small toy.
She almost pulled out her hair.
Qi Yan took a shower, tidied up briefly, went into the study, turned on the light, took out her teacher qualification certificate from the drawer, held it in her hand and studied it carefully.
It was palm-sized with a reddish-brown cover.
When she took this certificate, she poured her heart and soul into it with enthusiasm. The first time she got the certificate, she shared her joy to her mentor, thinking she could keep going on this path forever.
Time passes and people change. Today wasn't the straw that broke the camel's back.
Her colleagues also experience a lot of negative energy, but they are all persisting, because teachers are well-established, stable, and decent. Being a teacher is an honorable profession in the eyes of many traditional elders. Some people have no choice, but there are also people who love the profession, they are heroes in her eyes.
She has no enthusiasm anymore, and she doesn't care about being a hero.
But it's not that easy to quit, she can still bear it, and her sense of responsibility forces her not to just leave. At least she could finish this class and see Niu Niu graduate with her own eyes.
She'll hold on a little longer.
Qi Yan let out a heavy sigh, threw the certificate back into the drawer, and turned off the light.
The cloudy and rainy day lasted for a whole week, and the clouds above Jiangcheng were finally blown away by the wind. The long-lost and warm sunshine ushered in, and the temperature rose sharply.
Lu Zhiqiao came back from the field early in the morning and rushed to the company. They held meetings nonstop all morning, not only from her own department, but also from high-level people. Because Shu Minxi was not around recently, all the affairs in the company were entrusted to her. She was already busy, but now it was even more miserable.
Anyone with a discerning eye can tell that the higher ups intend to promote her. There have been signs of promotion since last year, and they have found a reason this year, but they don't know when she will be promoted.
Several directors are calm on the surface, but behind the dark tide, the small staff below were quietly gossiping.
"This is the real 'three women in one play'."
"What do you mean?"
"Chairman Gu, GM Shu, Director Lu, from top to bottom, they are neat and tidy. It's a pity that Manager Chi has resigned. If she is here, it will be 'Four Stars'."
"Ahahahaha..."
"Hey, I heard that Manager Chi was forced to leave by Director Lu."
"Ah?"
"Manager Chi is pregnant. As soon as she told Director Lu, she resigned within half a month. She resigned unwillingly. She was forced not to do anything else. The law stipulates that pregnant women cannot be dismissed, so she voluntarily resigned."
"Nonsense, I'm in the sales department. During that time, I saw her vomit in the toilet every day, and there was often no one in the office. It was her assistant who was busy with work. When I asked, she said that Manager Chi was not feeling well, or asked for leave. Who can stand that?."
"How come the version I heard is that Manager Chi deliberately sabotaged Director Lu?!"
"Hahaha, why don't you just write a script."
It was just lunch break and the anonymous gossip group was chatting away.
When Lu Zhiqiao returned to the office, she received a call from Shu Minxi, asking her to go to xx Japanese restaurant near the company and asking her to have dinner.
She is exhausted by the heavy workload, but fortunately, her boss came back at this time. She knew that she could finally take a breath, so she agreed wholeheartedly, explained a few words to her assistant, and simply cleaned up.
The restaurant is not far away, five or six minutes walk.
The dishes had been served when Lu Zhiqiao entered and Shu Minxi had already opened the meal boxes. The woman was holding a cup, drinking alone. Lu Zhiqiao doesn't know how much she drank, but her cheeks are a little red, and her eyes are wandering and blurred.
"I'm here." She smiled at Lu Zhiqiao, "Have a seat."
Lu Zhiqiao sat across from her, looked around, and asked, "Where's Miss Aoki?"
"She went back to Japan."
"..."
It seemed that it was not an appropriate time to discuss private matters at this meal.
Lu Zhiqiao bowed her head in silence, took a sip of the tea on the table, and ate the tempura that she was more comfortable with first. Shu Minxi looked at her quietly and asked, "They didn't make things difficult for you, did they?"
"No." She shook her head.
It is inevitable that some people will be dissatisfied with her using power without occupying a high position. Anyone who can get into the position of director is not a fuel-efficient lamp. Among a group of old men, she is the only woman, but she is not afraid.
Just tired.
She can't hold on any longer.
Lu Zhiqiao raised her eyes and opened her mouth, wanting to ask Shu Minxi if she's done handling the matters over there and if she could come back. The latter seemed to see through her thoughts, and sighed helplessly: "It's still not good, I can't do without someone, and I don't feel at ease to hand it over to anyone."
"..."
The chairman is sick again.
Shu Minxi has been taking care of her personally for so many years. What Lu Zhiqiao can't understand is that they are not relatives, but their friendship is so deep. It has reached the point where it is beyond the scope of friends or even lovers, and it is more like a family.
Everyone has a story.
"Hold on for a while, half a month at most." Shu Minxi apologized.
Lu Zhiqiao smiled reassuringly: "It's okay, don't worry, I can handle things in the company."
Shu Minxi didn't say the second half of the sentence.
At most half a month, if the chairman can get better, then they will be better, if she can't, then they will see each other at the funeral. By that time, the top management will usher in a big reshuffle.
Lu Zhiqiao almost ate all the tempura, feeling half full, but the rest didn't move, it seemed a little shameless, so she ate a little of each. Neither of them spoke, fearing that opening their mouths would be heavy and unpleasant.
"By the way, Ms. Shu..."
"Can't change it?"
"Sister Minxi."
The woman smiled and gestured for her to speak.
"I want to ask you a few more personal questions." Lu Zhiqiao said seriously.
Shu Minxi raised her eyebrows, and said in a joking tone: "Single, 38 years old in the second half of the year, has a love history, and was stalked by an ex-girlfriend."
"..."
"No more teasing, ask away." She smiled.
Lu Zhiqiao pursed her lips, lowered her eyes halfway, and said solemnly: "If a person likes you and treats you well, how do you repay her?"
"Do you like the other party?" Shu Minxi asked back.
Not waiting for Lu Zhiqiao to answer, she coughed low twice and continued, "If you don't like them, you don't have to reciprocate, just clearly reject the other and live separately afterwards, without interfering with each other."
"...If I like them?"
"Being together is the best reward."
Lu Zhiqiao paused and her heart trembled as if she had been electrocuted, and she murmured, "Isn't that too reckless?"
There are not many friends around her whom she can talk about this problem. She chose Shu Minxi because she has the same orientation and the other party has love experience, but this problem goes around and around, and finally returns to the original point.
The origin of her confusion.
"In love?" Shu Minxi raised her eyebrows.
"No."
"Confused?"
"..."
Why is this the same as what Wen Zilong said that day?
Such topics are easier to talk about, and the heavy atmosphere just now was swept away. Shu Minxi is also really tired these days, it is rare to listen to her speak a few words, so she became interested. After all, she is a subordinate and a friend whom she single-handedly promoted.
"We have a lot to consider at this age. It is impossible to dare to try everything like when we were young. But if you think there is no problem after all consideration, just go ahead and try. Don't be too harsh on yourself. Don't wait until you lose it to realize how important it is... "
Lu Zhiqiao's eyelashes trembled, she stopped chewing, and stared at her blankly.
Lose?
….
As it got late, the waning moon climbed into the night.
Qi Yan was sitting in the living room watching TV, waiting for Lu Zhiqiao to come back. That person worked overtime today, so she ate dinner with Niu Niu first. The other dishes had already gone cold, but the rice is still in the cooker, keeping it warm.
She glanced at the screen of her phone. Ten minutes ago, Lu Zhiqiao sent a message saying that she had just left the company.
There is no traffic jam at this point, and it takes about ten minutes to arrive.
She got ready to serve hot dishes.
The lingerie catwalk show was playing on the TV, and the tall and long-legged models took turns wearing well-designed underwear on the stage. Qi Yan put down the remote control, stood up and stretched, and a familiar face flashed across her sight.
She froze and looked carefully.
The shot happened to cut to the auditorium, and after a few seconds, it cut back and gave a close-up of the model's face.
Qi Yan's eyes widened.
Author's Note:
A new character is about to debut, let’s guess hahaha~
Her heart that had been tensed for several days finally relaxed completely. Lu Zhiqiao was relieved, but she also found that confessing her feelings would not make her lose her sense of security.She has been going around in the maze for too long, and the way back has disappeared, so she can only keep walking with fear and apprehension, but she did not expect to go out like this.Outside, there is a wider world, which is also full of a strange atmosphere.The pitiful emotional experience is not enough to teach her how to deal with intimacy. She stumbles like a headless chicken. After realizing that she has fallen unconsciously, she does not feel half joy and sweetness. On the contrary, she panics because of confusion, anxiousness, and overwhelming feelings.Before she learned how to savor the throbbing, she fell into Qi Yan's gentle trap.This person is everywhere, affecting her emotions all the time, controlling her thoughts, disturbing her mind, she finally couldn't bear it, and confessed. But she couldn't give Qi Yan a reciprocal response, even if she faced her heart directly, she couldn't start a relationship hastily.Contrary to her, Qi Yan was dazzled by the sudden joy, as if she had fulfilled what she often said to herself: When you lower your expectations to the lowest, surprises will come to you.Don't expect anything tonight.She was just disgusted by what happened during the day, and she felt uncomfortable. When she saw someone she liked, she couldn't hold back, thinking that it would be okay for her to confide her sincerity even if she didn't get a response, and said it all at once.The surprise came unexpectedly.Like a huge cookie falling from the sky, it made her dizzy and lost her way.Qiao Qiao said she cares about her? Says she likes her? She finally...just confessed to her?She has fantasized about this scene in front of her countless times, it is all madness and joy, but when this moment really came, after listening to what Lu Zhiqiao said in the latter part, the joy in her heart turned into sourness, and her heart suddenly throbbed."Qiao Qiao.""Mm."A muffled voice came from the back of the neck.Qi Yan caressed her back lightly, rubbing her palms, and said softly: "You don't need to give me anything, you just need to stand in front of me and wait for me to hug you and love you."At first she was just thinking of playing around, teasing Lu Zhiqiao to add some fun to life. Eventually, she fell into it, wanted to chase, and gradually regarded the chase as a game. Lu Zhiqiao is undoubtedly the top level boss, strictly guarding against her, difficult to conquer. Later, she found that Lu Zhiqiao had already removed her soft shell, revealing the soft heart inside, but she still couldn't get close.Things that are within reach, may seem to be one step away, but are actually far away.It is not difficult to get someone who's already been unconsciously tempted. But, the most difficult thing is to hold on to them and be consistent. Once a person like Lu Zhiqiao falls in love, it will be with all her heart and soul, so she can't let her down easily.It is only natural to be cautious with treasures, and it is not enough to make promises, it will take time to prove herself.Qi Yan understood.Qiao Qiao gave her a green light, she is no longer a blind person groping in the dark. If their feelings are unequal, then she is willing to be the one who gives more."I can't..." Lu Zhiqiao whispered.Lu Zhiqiao confessed all her thoughts, at this point. She didn't think about hiding anything, she simply made it clear to Qi Yan, the choice is up to the woman, before they get too deep. If Qi Yan feels that they are not suitable after weighing it all, she can accept it with peace of mind. It is better than being so unclear and stringing her along in vain."Qi Yan, listen to me."Lu Zhiqiao took a deep breath, pulled away from Qi Yan's arms, looked at her seriously, and said word by word: "The two of us are not compatible in any way. What I am emphasizing here is not about material things, but the things beyond that, the invisible things.""Actually, we are the opposite of each other. You may think that I am good everywhere now, but if we stay together for a long time, you will get tired of me one day. I am very boring, and the interpersonal relationships I can handle are limited to friends, colleagues, superiors and subordinates. I can't let myself completely trust a person, because once I lose the trust, I also lose the initiative.""You see, I am a workaholic. Yes, I put my heart and soul into my work and it gives me equal returns. Similarly, if it gives me returns, I will work harder. It is a virtuous cycle.""Everything has both positive and negative sides. A relationship cannot be sustained only by the unilateral contribution of a single person. It is your business, if you are willing to hug me and love me, but I won't be able to give you hugs or love. If one of us can't handle ' each other's business' well, the relationship will break down.""Moreover, life is not only about passion; plainness and stability is its true color."She's been alone for too long.She realized very early on that the most reliable person is herself, so she has hardly suffered any loss in interpersonal relationships. This is a double-edged sword that protects her, but it also hurts herself.Rather than betting on unsure feelings, it is better to stay where she is. No gain, no loss. A lifetime of peace and stability.Time to be honest with each other tonight.Lu Zhiqiao talked a lot, and threw out what was in her heart without any scruples. It was shameful in the past, but she cared about Qi Yan, so she had to say it. Qi Yan is so nice, how could she have the heart to let the other party hold on to her in vain.But soon, as an afterthought, she realized that she was more like accusing, demanding, and complaining.Lu Zhiqiao curled up her fingers, her palms were wet with thin sweat, and speaking her heart didn't make her feel relaxed, on the contrary, she became more nervous. She pretended to look calmly into Qi Yan's eyes, but her heart was beating like a drum."But you like me."One sentence that easily defeated all.Lu Zhiqiao froze."Qiao Qiao..." Qi Yan grabbed her hands and raised the corners of her mouth, "Your existence and your liking are the greatest happiness for me.""Emotions require rationality, but don't be too rational. We're not doing math problems, nor analyzing the market. Just follow your heart."Lu Zhiqiao's lashes trembled, and the dark mole at the corner of her eye was vividly pitiful, as if they were about to fall down at any time. She murmured: "I can't...I'm not ready yet...I can't do it..."Having said that, her heart was relieved."It's okay." Qi Yan smiled softly, and leaned over to hug her, "It's good that you are by my side, as it is now, I am very satisfied."Emotional matters can't be rushed, especially for a treasure like Lu Zhiqiao, every move, word and deed must be clearly grasped. At least she saw hope today, then the rest is only a matter of time.One day, they will completely belong to each other.Lu Zhiqiao turned soft in Qi Yan's arms, subconsciously hugging her waist, clasping her fingers together, twirling the hair hanging down her waist, burying her face against the woman's shoulder, and inhaling her scent.The crescent wall lamp is dim, and the hazy light lingers ambiguously."Qiao Qiao.""Mm?""You looked so handsome* today."*she used the word shuai that means handsome, but can also mean cool, depending on the context"What?""When you stood up for me." Qi Yan tilted her head and rubbed her cheek against her ear.Lu Zhiqiao tightened her arms and said softly, "I don't want others to bully you. And...you were very protective of me before.""Because you are worth it."Soft kisses fell on her hair.Behind Qi Yan's invisible shoulders, Lu Zhiqiao was blushing, and her ears were scorched from rubbing. She pursed her lips and said nothing..After sitting until almost ten o'clock, Lu Zhiqiao went back, and before leaving, Qi Yan gave her a small toy.She almost pulled out her hair.Qi Yan took a shower, tidied up briefly, went into the study, turned on the light, took out her teacher qualification certificate from the drawer, held it in her hand and studied it carefully.It was palm-sized with a reddish-brown cover.When she took this certificate, she poured her heart and soul into it with enthusiasm. The first time she got the certificate, she shared her joy to her mentor, thinking she could keep going on this path forever.Time passes and people change. Today wasn't the straw that broke the camel's back.Her colleagues also experience a lot of negative energy, but they are all persisting, because teachers are well-established, stable, and decent. Being a teacher is an honorable profession in the eyes of many traditional elders. Some people have no choice, but there are also people who love the profession, they are heroes in her eyes.She has no enthusiasm anymore, and she doesn't care about being a hero.But it's not that easy to quit, she can still bear it, and her sense of responsibility forces her not to just leave. At least she could finish this class and see Niu Niu graduate with her own eyes.She'll hold on a little longer.Qi Yan let out a heavy sigh, threw the certificate back into the drawer, and turned off the light.The cloudy and rainy day lasted for a whole week, and the clouds above Jiangcheng were finally blown away by the wind. The long-lost and warm sunshine ushered in, and the temperature rose sharply.Lu Zhiqiao came back from the field early in the morning and rushed to the company. They held meetings nonstop all morning, not only from her own department, but also from high-level people. Because Shu Minxi was not around recently, all the affairs in the company were entrusted to her. She was already busy, but now it was even more miserable.Anyone with a discerning eye can tell that the higher ups intend to promote her. There have been signs of promotion since last year, and they have found a reason this year, but they don't know when she will be promoted.Several directors are calm on the surface, but behind the dark tide, the small staff below were quietly gossiping."This is the real 'three women in one play'.""What do you mean?""Chairman Gu, GM Shu, Director Lu, from top to bottom, they are neat and tidy. It's a pity that Manager Chi has resigned. If she is here, it will be 'Four Stars'.""Ahahahaha...""Hey, I heard that Manager Chi was forced to leave by Director Lu.""Ah?""Manager Chi is pregnant. As soon as she told Director Lu, she resigned within half a month. She resigned unwillingly. She was forced not to do anything else. The law stipulates that pregnant women cannot be dismissed, so she voluntarily resigned.""Nonsense, I'm in the sales department. During that time, I saw her vomit in the toilet every day, and there was often no one in the office. It was her assistant who was busy with work. When I asked, she said that Manager Chi was not feeling well, or asked for leave. Who can stand that?.""How come the version I heard is that Manager Chi deliberately sabotaged Director Lu?!""Hahaha, why don't you just write a script."It was just lunch break and the anonymous gossip group was chatting away.When Lu Zhiqiao returned to the office, she received a call from Shu Minxi, asking her to go to xx Japanese restaurant near the company and asking her to have dinner.She is exhausted by the heavy workload, but fortunately, her boss came back at this time. She knew that she could finally take a breath, so she agreed wholeheartedly, explained a few words to her assistant, and simply cleaned up.The restaurant is not far away, five or six minutes walk.The dishes had been served when Lu Zhiqiao entered and Shu Minxi had already opened the meal boxes. The woman was holding a cup, drinking alone. Lu Zhiqiao doesn't know how much she drank, but her cheeks are a little red, and her eyes are wandering and blurred."I'm here." She smiled at Lu Zhiqiao, "Have a seat."Lu Zhiqiao sat across from her, looked around, and asked, "Where's Miss Aoki?""She went back to Japan.""..."It seemed that it was not an appropriate time to discuss private matters at this meal.Lu Zhiqiao bowed her head in silence, took a sip of the tea on the table, and ate the tempura that she was more comfortable with first. Shu Minxi looked at her quietly and asked, "They didn't make things difficult for you, did they?""No." She shook her head.It is inevitable that some people will be dissatisfied with her using power without occupying a high position. Anyone who can get into the position of director is not a fuel-efficient lamp. Among a group of old men, she is the only woman, but she is not afraid.Just tired.She can't hold on any longer.Lu Zhiqiao raised her eyes and opened her mouth, wanting to ask Shu Minxi if she's done handling the matters over there and if she could come back. The latter seemed to see through her thoughts, and sighed helplessly: "It's still not good, I can't do without someone, and I don't feel at ease to hand it over to anyone.""..."The chairman is sick again.Shu Minxi has been taking care of her personally for so many years. What Lu Zhiqiao can't understand is that they are not relatives, but their friendship is so deep. It has reached the point where it is beyond the scope of friends or even lovers, and it is more like a family.Everyone has a story."Hold on for a while, half a month at most." Shu Minxi apologized.Lu Zhiqiao smiled reassuringly: "It's okay, don't worry, I can handle things in the company."Shu Minxi didn't say the second half of the sentence.At most half a month, if the chairman can get better, then they will be better, if she can't, then they will see each other at the funeral. By that time, the top management will usher in a big reshuffle.Lu Zhiqiao almost ate all the tempura, feeling half full, but the rest didn't move, it seemed a little shameless, so she ate a little of each. Neither of them spoke, fearing that opening their mouths would be heavy and unpleasant."By the way, Ms. Shu...""Can't change it?""Sister Minxi."The woman smiled and gestured for her to speak."I want to ask you a few more personal questions." Lu Zhiqiao said seriously.Shu Minxi raised her eyebrows, and said in a joking tone: "Single, 38 years old in the second half of the year, has a love history, and was stalked by an ex-girlfriend.""...""No more teasing, ask away." She smiled.Lu Zhiqiao pursed her lips, lowered her eyes halfway, and said solemnly: "If a person likes you and treats you well, how do you repay her?""Do you like the other party?" Shu Minxi asked back.Not waiting for Lu Zhiqiao to answer, she coughed low twice and continued, "If you don't like them, you don't have to reciprocate, just clearly reject the other and live separately afterwards, without interfering with each other.""...If I like them?""Being together is the best reward."Lu Zhiqiao paused and her heart trembled as if she had been electrocuted, and she murmured, "Isn't that too reckless?"There are not many friends around her whom she can talk about this problem. She chose Shu Minxi because she has the same orientation and the other party has love experience, but this problem goes around and around, and finally returns to the original point.The origin of her confusion."In love?" Shu Minxi raised her eyebrows."No.""Confused?""..."Why is this the same as what Wen Zilong said that day?Such topics are easier to talk about, and the heavy atmosphere just now was swept away. Shu Minxi is also really tired these days, it is rare to listen to her speak a few words, so she became interested. After all, she is a subordinate and a friend whom she single-handedly promoted."We have a lot to consider at this age. It is impossible to dare to try everything like when we were young. But if you think there is no problem after all consideration, just go ahead and try. Don't be too harsh on yourself. Don't wait until you lose it to realize how important it is... "Lu Zhiqiao's eyelashes trembled, she stopped chewing, and stared at her blankly.Lose?.As it got late, the waning moon climbed into the night.Qi Yan was sitting in the living room watching TV, waiting for Lu Zhiqiao to come back. That person worked overtime today, so she ate dinner with Niu Niu first. The other dishes had already gone cold, but the rice is still in the cooker, keeping it warm.She glanced at the screen of her phone. Ten minutes ago, Lu Zhiqiao sent a message saying that she had just left the company.There is no traffic jam at this point, and it takes about ten minutes to arrive.She got ready to serve hot dishes.The lingerie catwalk show was playing on the TV, and the tall and long-legged models took turns wearing well-designed underwear on the stage. Qi Yan put down the remote control, stood up and stretched, and a familiar face flashed across her sight.She froze and looked carefully.The shot happened to cut to the auditorium, and after a few seconds, it cut back and gave a close-up of the model's face.Qi Yan's eyes widened.Author's Note:A new character is about to debut, let's guess hahaha~
