The Long Road Ahead

The Reason

This novel was posted on cntranslationss [dot] blogsp0t [dot] com, by anasiana. If you're not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

In the end, Xia Li chose a belt which cost a little over three thousand, and because it was a gift, Xiao Ning didn't offer to help him pay. After this, he accompanied Xia Li to buy a bag as well as some pyjamas, but during all that, maybe due to Shan Haiming's phone call and the things Xia Li overheard, the younger man no longer treated him with suspicion, allowing him to sigh with relief. Even if Xiao Ning doesn't care about Lu Yan, he still didn't want other people always bickering with him.

Following what seemed like an eternity, that aforementioned fella finally called. He was done with his business at work and was preparing to go find them. So, finding another coffee shop, the two sat and waited. Xiao Ning ordered himself a cup of tea, he was old, so he couldn't handle drinking more than two cups of a caffeinated beverage in one day.

"Actually, if he asks, it won't be a problem if you just tell him." Xiao Nng figured he'd have to reveal it sooner or later, so there wasn't anything wrong with Lu Yan getting the news from Xia Li.

"Why don't you have this?" Xiao Ning used his chopsticks to point at the thinks on Lu Yan's plate, "It won't taste good if it gets cold."

What exactly was different about it? Lu Yan couldn't actually say, so all could do was stubbornly fix his gaze on Xiao Ning, hoping just like every other time before, the man would just compromise for him.

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

He didn't join in on the conversation between them. Firstly, because he had no wish of becoming a third wheel, and secondly, because he had no interest in saying a word. He wanted nothing more than to not stay there for a second longer, yet he still sat beside them quietly, listening and looking on.

As he spoke, he exited the car. But while the car door was still open, he heard Lu Yan speak, "If that's the case, Xia Li and I will go with you. I also want to meet this new friend of yours."

Following what seemed like an eternity, that aforementioned fella finally called. He was done with his business at work and was preparing to go find them. So, finding another coffee shop, the two sat and waited. Xiao Ning ordered himself a cup of tea, he was old, so he couldn't handle drinking more than two cups of a caffeinated beverage in one day.

Xiao Li nodded in understanding before sincerely and excitedly wishing, "Anyway, I hope everything goes without a hitch for you two. Good luck."

"There's someone coming to pick me up." Xiao Ning kept the faint smile on his face, giving Xia Li a nod. "Bye, and enjoy yourself, alright."

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

If Lu Yan knew Xiao Ning was gay, what would happen then?

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

Not long after this, Lu Yan arrived by car rather quickly, then took the two for a meal at a Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant. With this development, Xiao Ning thought to himself that at least those dishes were cooked, and was able to feel a bit comforted.

Xia Li blinked, implicitly and explicitly showing off his "I just know~" look. His provocative look made Lu Yan hot under the collar, prompting him to cuddle up next Xia Li, teasing him. The two now went at it back and forth, their questions seeming no different than flirting, the earlier issue regarding Xiao Ning long tossed aside.

"If it's been set, it can also be broken." Lu Yan twisted his mouth, continuing, "Since you and Xia Li get along so well, you can just hang out with us. You're not fond of dinner parties to begin with anyhow."

After eating, Lu Yan planned to drive Xiao Ning back to the house beyond the third ringT/n: A-City (based on Beijing) has a circular expressway made up of seven rings starting from the centre leading outwards., assuming as per usual the other man would have nothing to do at night and would be returning home following their chat to stay in. Xiao Ning actually had nothing to do, but he declined the offer with a smile nonetheless, saying, "It's too far, and there's no need fr you to go that far out of the way. I can just take a take a cab back. You two should go have fun."

"But he has plans with other people too." Xia Li then wore a vague smile as he continued, "He even has a dateT/n: the word for date is also used to refer to any appointment. with someone tomorrow."

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

"I landed the real-estate job so I'll probably be busy for the next few months. Once everything kicks off, I'll just toss it over to the sales team. I'll be able to take it easy after that." The three sat beside one another facing the bar where the chef cooked the sizzling Thai shrimp on the teppanT/n: Flat iron grill, with Lu Yan being the one sandwiched between them. Leaning over to Xia Li, he asked, "So what'd you buy?"

Lu Yan with one hand on the steering wheel, tilted his head to look at Xia Li. "No, seriously, tell me. Why is the relationship between you two so friendly? Just what exactly have you two been chatting about?"

"Just some random stuff. The shower gel I wanted to buy was out of stock though, so can I just use yours for the time being?" Propping his head on his hand, Xia Li then turned to face him, "I already asked Xiao Ning about this, but are there any places to rent in your apartment building?"

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

"A date?" Lu Yan's brows crinkled slightly, as he then turned his head to Xiao Ning to ask: "With Wang Hua?"

Lu Yan stared at Xiao Ning unhappily, then turned to Xia Li and asked suspiciously, "Why does it sound as if you know?"

Pulling his brows tightly; LuYan turned a little to stare at Xiao Ning.

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

As he spoke, he exited the car. But while the car door was still open, he heard Lu Yan speak, "If that's the case, Xia Li and I will go with you. I also want to meet this new friend of yours."

"There's someone coming to pick me up." Xiao Ning kept the faint smile on his face, giving Xia Li a nod. "Bye, and enjoy yourself, alright."

"Of course not! But it is inconvenient for me." Even if Xiao Ning couldn't agree; his tone was still much lighter. "You and Xia Li are having a good time as a couple, what fun do you think coming along would allow you two to have? There nothing interesting there."

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

If Lu Yan knew Xiao Ning was gay, what would happen then?

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

On that topic, he wondered whether he should take a few pictures of Shan Haiming, or whether should he give Shan Haiming some pictures of himself to increase their credibility? The two have never even exchanged text messages, so to a person as conscientious in everything they do in life like Xiao Ning, these things were really too perfunctory.

"Thanks!" Xia Li beamed at him, scooting a bit closer. "I bought something for you too. I'll give it to you when we get back."

During the ride, not a soul said a word. Xia Li felt awkward. He wanted to say something, but couldn't dare utter a peep. He had no ideas if doing so would be alright, or what the hell was currently going on.

When it came to Lu Yan's change of attitude, Xia Li didn't notice at all, chiming in smilingly from the side, "It's not a dinner party."

Annoyed by the two echoing each other, deflated, Lu Yan nodded. "Fine. I'll have some."

Xiao Ning shook his head. "We haven't known each for too long."

"Actually, if he asks, it won't be a problem if you just tell him." Xiao Nng figured he'd have to reveal it sooner or later, so there wasn't anything wrong with Lu Yan getting the news from Xia Li.

Lu Yan brought the car over slowly, and Xiao Ning subconsciously walked over to the front passengers seat, the pause in his action faintly undetectable, as he still moved to open the door at once. Imitating a gentleman, he then looked to Xia Li and smiled, "If you please."

If Lu Yan knew Xiao Ning was gay, what would happen then?

Seeing the two of them, Xiao Ning believed straightening out his thoughts and making a decision earlier would allow him to have no issue when facing Lu Yan or Xia Li alone. But now, seeing how intimate and affectionate the two acted towards one another, a dull ache of regret pierced his gaze, running all the way down to his heart.

What should I wear tomorrow? If it's Shan Haiming's brother, wouldn't that be my boss? Should I wear something formal then? But... taking Shan Haiming's style into consideration, too formal wouldn't be that good. Anyhow, who could the other friend be?

"Another friend?" Lu Yan looked visibly shocked, "Who?"

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

"Thank you." Xia Li very cooperatively put on a gleeful look, lowering himself to enter. Afterwards, Xiao Ning himself then entered the back seat.

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

Xia Li eyes widened a bit from beside them, originally, Lu Yan and him planned to go see a stage play that Monday night so how could he just change their plans like that?

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

He didn't join in on the conversation between them. Firstly, because he had no wish of becoming a third wheel, and secondly, because he had no interest in saying a word. He wanted nothing more than to not stay there for a second longer, yet he still sat beside them quietly, listening and looking on.

"Of course not! But it is inconvenient for me." Even if Xiao Ning couldn't agree; his tone was still much lighter. "You and Xia Li are having a good time as a couple, what fun do you think coming along would allow you two to have? There nothing interesting there."

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

◈◇◈

Lu Yan turned to look at him. "Huh? Really? I'll get Xiao Ning to hang out with you more then. I'll be pretty busy these days anyhow."

iana: If Lu Yan knew, this would've been a different story.

"If it's been set, it can also be broken." Lu Yan twisted his mouth, continuing, "Since you and Xia Li get along so well, you can just hang out with us. You're not fond of dinner parties to begin with anyhow."

Annoyed by the two echoing each other, deflated, Lu Yan nodded. "Fine. I'll have some."

"Just some random stuff. The shower gel I wanted to buy was out of stock though, so can I just use yours for the time being?" Propping his head on his hand, Xia Li then turned to face him, "I already asked Xiao Ning about this, but are there any places to rent in your apartment building?"

As he spoke, he exited the car. But while the car door was still open, he heard Lu Yan speak, "If that's the case, Xia Li and I will go with you. I also want to meet this new friend of yours."

"But he has plans with other people too." Xia Li then wore a vague smile as he continued, "He even has a dateT/n: the word for date is also used to refer to any appointment. with someone tomorrow."

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

What will happen though? You guys are free to guess.

"A date?" Lu Yan's brows crinkled slightly, as he then turned his head to Xiao Ning to ask: "With Wang Hua?"

"If it's not interesting, why are you still going, then?" Lu Yan raised his voice by a lot, directing his anger at Xiao Ning. "Why are you acting like this? We've been friends for so many years, so how can you not have one ounce of loyalty? Xiao Ning, you're not being a good friend."

"Why don't you have this?" Xiao Ning used his chopsticks to point at the thinks on Lu Yan's plate, "It won't taste good if it gets cold."

Even though his tone sounded playful, Xiao Ning could hear the stubbornness within his voice. But his date with Shan Haiming absolutely could not be broken, so Xiao Ning, with a laugh, replied, "It's already been set."

In the end, Xia Li chose a belt which cost a little over three thousand, and because it was a gift, Xiao Ning didn't offer to help him pay. After this, he accompanied Xia Li to buy a bag as well as some pyjamas, but during all that, maybe due to Shan Haiming's phone call and the things Xia Li overheard, the younger man no longer treated him with suspicion, allowing him to sigh with relief. Even if Xiao Ning doesn't care about Lu Yan, he still didn't want other people always bickering with him.

But what else could he have said? Xiao Ning resisted the urge to fall back into his habit of wanting to compromise. They couldn't keep going on like this. So maybe they can gradually grow accustomed to this change. It's better to warm up to it first.

in the end, Lu Yan could not keep his composure, his tone now filled with criticism, as if he was wronged, while he gritted is teeth, "Why is it inconvenient? Am I not fit to be seen?"

The Reason

The chef placed the cooked shrimp on the three plates, while Xiao Ning replied, "No, another friend."

"We're going." Lu Yan turn around with an expressionless face, instantly starting the car and using practical actions to block Xia Ning's words.

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

He didn't join in on the conversation between them. Firstly, because he had no wish of becoming a third wheel, and secondly, because he had no interest in saying a word. He wanted nothing more than to not stay there for a second longer, yet he still sat beside them quietly, listening and looking on.

"Another friend?" Lu Yan looked visibly shocked, "Who?"

Not long after this, Lu Yan arrived by car rather quickly, then took the two for a meal at a Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant. With this development, Xiao Ning thought to himself that at least those dishes were cooked, and was able to feel a bit comforted.

"But he has plans with other people too." Xia Li then wore a vague smile as he continued, "He even has a dateT/n: the word for date is also used to refer to any appointment. with someone tomorrow."

"We're going." Lu Yan turn around with an expressionless face, instantly starting the car and using practical actions to block Xia Ning's words.

Xiao Ning picked up a shrimp with his chopsticks, taking a bite. "You don't know them."

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

"Huh, I don't think so." Lu Yan now turned his entire body around, propping his elbow on the table. "You only have a few friends, is there still anyone I don't know?"

"Thanks!" Xia Li beamed at him, scooting a bit closer. "I bought something for you too. I'll give it to you when we get back."

Maybe because he was determined to say he wouldn't tell, Xia Li opened his mouth then shut it nervously, letting out a giggle afterwards, choosing to swallow back his words to instead say, "Hey, when are you planning to introduce him to us? I'm super curious. Do you have a picture?"

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

"If it's not interesting, why are you still going, then?" Lu Yan raised his voice by a lot, directing his anger at Xiao Ning. "Why are you acting like this? We've been friends for so many years, so how can you not have one ounce of loyalty? Xiao Ning, you're not being a good friend."

Those two words... "new friend", if anyone else didn't listen carefully, they wouldn't be able to sense the abnormality within them. But Xiao Ning wasn't anyone else, he could guess the intention behind them just by the small twitch of Lu Yan's brows. So hearing those words, he immediately understood that Lu Yan's strange self-centred fit of anger was severe.

Even though his tone sounded playful, Xiao Ning could hear the stubbornness within his voice. But his date with Shan Haiming absolutely could not be broken, so Xiao Ning, with a laugh, replied, "It's already been set."

But what else could he have said? Xiao Ning resisted the urge to fall back into his habit of wanting to compromise. They couldn't keep going on like this. So maybe they can gradually grow accustomed to this change. It's better to warm up to it first.

"Why don't you have this?" Xiao Ning used his chopsticks to point at the thinks on Lu Yan's plate, "It won't taste good if it gets cold."

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

"Huh, I don't think so." Lu Yan now turned his entire body around, propping his elbow on the table. "You only have a few friends, is there still anyone I don't know?"

"Of course not! But it is inconvenient for me." Even if Xiao Ning couldn't agree; his tone was still much lighter. "You and Xia Li are having a good time as a couple, what fun do you think coming along would allow you two to have? There nothing interesting there."

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

"Huh, I don't think so." Lu Yan now turned his entire body around, propping his elbow on the table. "You only have a few friends, is there still anyone I don't know?"

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

Lu Yan wanted to ask him again but Xia Li spoke up from beside him. "Why don't you have another serving of snowflake beef? Lu Yan?"

Xia Li gave an embarrassed smile in return. "You too."

Maybe because he was determined to say he wouldn't tell, Xia Li opened his mouth then shut it nervously, letting out a giggle afterwards, choosing to swallow back his words to instead say, "Hey, when are you planning to introduce him to us? I'm super curious. Do you have a picture?"

What will happen though? You guys are free to guess.

Annoyed by the two echoing each other, deflated, Lu Yan nodded. "Fine. I'll have some."

In the end, Xia Li chose a belt which cost a little over three thousand, and because it was a gift, Xiao Ning didn't offer to help him pay. After this, he accompanied Xia Li to buy a bag as well as some pyjamas, but during all that, maybe due to Shan Haiming's phone call and the things Xia Li overheard, the younger man no longer treated him with suspicion, allowing him to sigh with relief. Even if Xiao Ning doesn't care about Lu Yan, he still didn't want other people always bickering with him.

After eating, Lu Yan planned to drive Xiao Ning back to the house beyond the third ringT/n: A-City (based on Beijing) has a circular expressway made up of seven rings starting from the centre leading outwards., assuming as per usual the other man would have nothing to do at night and would be returning home following their chat to stay in. Xiao Ning actually had nothing to do, but he declined the offer with a smile nonetheless, saying, "It's too far, and there's no need fr you to go that far out of the way. I can just take a take a cab back. You two should go have fun."

iana: If Lu Yan knew, this would've been a different story.

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

Lu yan didn't pat attention to him at all, however, only seriously staring at Niao Ning. A smile was clearly shown on his face, but not one trace of it could be seen in his eyes.

After eating, Lu Yan planned to drive Xiao Ning back to the house beyond the third ringT/n: A-City (based on Beijing) has a circular expressway made up of seven rings starting from the centre leading outwards., assuming as per usual the other man would have nothing to do at night and would be returning home following their chat to stay in. Xiao Ning actually had nothing to do, but he declined the offer with a smile nonetheless, saying, "It's too far, and there's no need fr you to go that far out of the way. I can just take a take a cab back. You two should go have fun."

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

Annoyed by the two echoing each other, deflated, Lu Yan nodded. "Fine. I'll have some."

But what else could he have said? Xiao Ning resisted the urge to fall back into his habit of wanting to compromise. They couldn't keep going on like this. So maybe they can gradually grow accustomed to this change. It's better to warm up to it first.

Lu Yan with one hand on the steering wheel, tilted his head to look at Xia Li. "No, seriously, tell me. Why is the relationship between you two so friendly? Just what exactly have you two been chatting about?"

On that topic, he wondered whether he should take a few pictures of Shan Haiming, or whether should he give Shan Haiming some pictures of himself to increase their credibility? The two have never even exchanged text messages, so to a person as conscientious in everything they do in life like Xiao Ning, these things were really too perfunctory.

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

Xia Li was even more shocked now, Lu Yan was an uninhibited romantic when it came to playing around. When his affection was strong, he spoke sweet coaxing words smoothly, but if he didn't pay care though, he revealed an attitude of dispensability. Although this attitude made people feel as if they couldn't hold onto him, it also made added to his appeal.

Lu Yan stared at Xiao Ning unhappily, then turned to Xia Li and asked suspiciously, "Why does it sound as if you know?"

"Actually, if he asks, it won't be a problem if you just tell him." Xiao Nng figured he'd have to reveal it sooner or later, so there wasn't anything wrong with Lu Yan getting the news from Xia Li.

Lost in thought over the next day's mission, Xiao Ning had completely forgotten all about the two beside him.

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

Thinking about the atmosphere between those two which made others unable to get in, Xia Li pinched his lips together lightly, worriedly wondering if he let himself be relieved too early.

During the ride, not a soul said a word. Xia Li felt awkward. He wanted to say something, but couldn't dare utter a peep. He had no ideas if doing so would be alright, or what the hell was currently going on.

What exactly was different about it? Lu Yan couldn't actually say, so all could do was stubbornly fix his gaze on Xiao Ning, hoping just like every other time before, the man would just compromise for him.

"Thanks!" Xia Li beamed at him, scooting a bit closer. "I bought something for you too. I'll give it to you when we get back."

Xia Li blinked, implicitly and explicitly showing off his "I just know~" look. His provocative look made Lu Yan hot under the collar, prompting him to cuddle up next Xia Li, teasing him. The two now went at it back and forth, their questions seeming no different than flirting, the earlier issue regarding Xiao Ning long tossed aside.

In the end, Xia Li chose a belt which cost a little over three thousand, and because it was a gift, Xiao Ning didn't offer to help him pay. After this, he accompanied Xia Li to buy a bag as well as some pyjamas, but during all that, maybe due to Shan Haiming's phone call and the things Xia Li overheard, the younger man no longer treated him with suspicion, allowing him to sigh with relief. Even if Xiao Ning doesn't care about Lu Yan, he still didn't want other people always bickering with him.

Lu Yan wanted to ask him again but Xia Li spoke up from beside him. "Why don't you have another serving of snowflake beef? Lu Yan?"

Even though his tone sounded playful, Xiao Ning could hear the stubbornness within his voice. But his date with Shan Haiming absolutely could not be broken, so Xiao Ning, with a laugh, replied, "It's already been set."

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

"If it's been set, it can also be broken." Lu Yan twisted his mouth, continuing, "Since you and Xia Li get along so well, you can just hang out with us. You're not fond of dinner parties to begin with anyhow."

Lu yan didn't pat attention to him at all, however, only seriously staring at Niao Ning. A smile was clearly shown on his face, but not one trace of it could be seen in his eyes.

Not long after this, Lu Yan arrived by car rather quickly, then took the two for a meal at a Japanese Teppanyaki restaurant. With this development, Xiao Ning thought to himself that at least those dishes were cooked, and was able to feel a bit comforted.

"We're going." Lu Yan turn around with an expressionless face, instantly starting the car and using practical actions to block Xia Ning's words.

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

He then thought that about he should first find himself a place to rent and move out of Lu Yan's. He lived that nameless, share-less, faceless, skinless—all in all shameless—kind of life for far too long. It was enough.

What will happen though? You guys are free to guess.

Which is comparatively better, right?

Usually, Lu Yan would just go along with it and agree, however right then, he had no idea what kind of crazy he was on but he needed to send Xiao Ning back himself. Xiao Ning also never pushed the matter, and so simply agreed.

Narrowing his eyes, Xiao Ning couldn't help but think of Shan Haiming. He now understood the other man a little more. Having a fake intimate relationship with someone to use as an excuse was surprisingly very useful.

Xia Li laughed out hearing this, then said, "We were chatting about Xiao Ning's date tomorrow."

What should I wear tomorrow? If it's Shan Haiming's brother, wouldn't that be my boss? Should I wear something formal then? But... taking Shan Haiming's style into consideration, too formal wouldn't be that good. Anyhow, who could the other friend be?

"Why don't you have this?" Xiao Ning used his chopsticks to point at the thinks on Lu Yan's plate, "It won't taste good if it gets cold."

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

Xia Li laughed out hearing this, then said, "We were chatting about Xiao Ning's date tomorrow."

Lost in thought over the next day's mission, Xiao Ning had completely forgotten all about the two beside him.

"Thank you." Xia Li very cooperatively put on a gleeful look, lowering himself to enter. Afterwards, Xiao Ning himself then entered the back seat.

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

"If it's been set, it can also be broken." Lu Yan twisted his mouth, continuing, "Since you and Xia Li get along so well, you can just hang out with us. You're not fond of dinner parties to begin with anyhow."

◈◇◈

Maybe because he was determined to say he wouldn't tell, Xia Li opened his mouth then shut it nervously, letting out a giggle afterwards, choosing to swallow back his words to instead say, "Hey, when are you planning to introduce him to us? I'm super curious. Do you have a picture?"

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

"Actually, if he asks, it won't be a problem if you just tell him." Xiao Nng figured he'd have to reveal it sooner or later, so there wasn't anything wrong with Lu Yan getting the news from Xia Li.

After eating, Lu Yan planned to drive Xiao Ning back to the house beyond the third ringT/n: A-City (based on Beijing) has a circular expressway made up of seven rings starting from the centre leading outwards., assuming as per usual the other man would have nothing to do at night and would be returning home following their chat to stay in. Xiao Ning actually had nothing to do, but he declined the offer with a smile nonetheless, saying, "It's too far, and there's no need fr you to go that far out of the way. I can just take a take a cab back. You two should go have fun."

"A date?" Lu Yan's brows crinkled slightly, as he then turned his head to Xiao Ning to ask: "With Wang Hua?"

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

Maybe because he was determined to say he wouldn't tell, Xia Li opened his mouth then shut it nervously, letting out a giggle afterwards, choosing to swallow back his words to instead say, "Hey, when are you planning to introduce him to us? I'm super curious. Do you have a picture?"

Lu Yan with one hand on the steering wheel, tilted his head to look at Xia Li. "No, seriously, tell me. Why is the relationship between you two so friendly? Just what exactly have you two been chatting about?"

Usually, Lu Yan would just go along with it and agree, however right then, he had no idea what kind of crazy he was on but he needed to send Xiao Ning back himself. Xiao Ning also never pushed the matter, and so simply agreed.

Lu Yan wanted to ask him again but Xia Li spoke up from beside him. "Why don't you have another serving of snowflake beef? Lu Yan?"

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

The Reason

"A date?" Lu Yan's brows crinkled slightly, as he then turned his head to Xiao Ning to ask: "With Wang Hua?"

"But he has plans with other people too." Xia Li then wore a vague smile as he continued, "He even has a dateT/n: the word for date is also used to refer to any appointment. with someone tomorrow."

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

"I landed the real-estate job so I'll probably be busy for the next few months. Once everything kicks off, I'll just toss it over to the sales team. I'll be able to take it easy after that." The three sat beside one another facing the bar where the chef cooked the sizzling Thai shrimp on the teppanT/n: Flat iron grill, with Lu Yan being the one sandwiched between them. Leaning over to Xia Li, he asked, "So what'd you buy?"

During the ride, not a soul said a word. Xia Li felt awkward. He wanted to say something, but couldn't dare utter a peep. He had no ideas if doing so would be alright, or what the hell was currently going on.

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

Xia Li gave an embarrassed smile in return. "You too."

Lu Yan stared at Xiao Ning unhappily, then turned to Xia Li and asked suspiciously, "Why does it sound as if you know?"

Usually, Lu Yan would just go along with it and agree, however right then, he had no idea what kind of crazy he was on but he needed to send Xiao Ning back himself. Xiao Ning also never pushed the matter, and so simply agreed.

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

"Actually, if he asks, it won't be a problem if you just tell him." Xiao Nng figured he'd have to reveal it sooner or later, so there wasn't anything wrong with Lu Yan getting the news from Xia Li.

This made Lu Yan turn his head back, but his brows still remained drawn. First muttering to himself, he then said with a smile, "What date, huh? It's better to hang with me and Xia Li."

Thinking about the atmosphere between those two which made others unable to get in, Xia Li pinched his lips together lightly, worriedly wondering if he let himself be relieved too early.

But what else could he have said? Xiao Ning resisted the urge to fall back into his habit of wanting to compromise. They couldn't keep going on like this. So maybe they can gradually grow accustomed to this change. It's better to warm up to it first.

"Huh, I don't think so." Lu Yan now turned his entire body around, propping his elbow on the table. "You only have a few friends, is there still anyone I don't know?"

Xia Li blinked, implicitly and explicitly showing off his "I just know~" look. His provocative look made Lu Yan hot under the collar, prompting him to cuddle up next Xia Li, teasing him. The two now went at it back and forth, their questions seeming no different than flirting, the earlier issue regarding Xiao Ning long tossed aside.

Maybe because he was determined to say he wouldn't tell, Xia Li opened his mouth then shut it nervously, letting out a giggle afterwards, choosing to swallow back his words to instead say, "Hey, when are you planning to introduce him to us? I'm super curious. Do you have a picture?"

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

Xiao Ning shook his head. "We haven't known each for too long."

Xiao Ning shook his head. "We haven't known each for too long."

"But he has plans with other people too." Xia Li then wore a vague smile as he continued, "He even has a dateT/n: the word for date is also used to refer to any appointment. with someone tomorrow."

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

On that topic, he wondered whether he should take a few pictures of Shan Haiming, or whether should he give Shan Haiming some pictures of himself to increase their credibility? The two have never even exchanged text messages, so to a person as conscientious in everything they do in life like Xiao Ning, these things were really too perfunctory.

Lost in thought over the next day's mission, Xiao Ning had completely forgotten all about the two beside him.

When it came to Lu Yan's change of attitude, Xia Li didn't notice at all, chiming in smilingly from the side, "It's not a dinner party."

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

"Huh, I don't think so." Lu Yan now turned his entire body around, propping his elbow on the table. "You only have a few friends, is there still anyone I don't know?"

"Another friend?" Lu Yan looked visibly shocked, "Who?"

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

"Just some random stuff. The shower gel I wanted to buy was out of stock though, so can I just use yours for the time being?" Propping his head on his hand, Xia Li then turned to face him, "I already asked Xiao Ning about this, but are there any places to rent in your apartment building?"

Xiao Li nodded in understanding before sincerely and excitedly wishing, "Anyway, I hope everything goes without a hitch for you two. Good luck."

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

Lu Yan brought the car over slowly, and Xiao Ning subconsciously walked over to the front passengers seat, the pause in his action faintly undetectable, as he still moved to open the door at once. Imitating a gentleman, he then looked to Xia Li and smiled, "If you please."

"There's someone coming to pick me up." Xiao Ning kept the faint smile on his face, giving Xia Li a nod. "Bye, and enjoy yourself, alright."

But what else could he have said? Xiao Ning resisted the urge to fall back into his habit of wanting to compromise. They couldn't keep going on like this. So maybe they can gradually grow accustomed to this change. It's better to warm up to it first.

"If it's not interesting, why are you still going, then?" Lu Yan raised his voice by a lot, directing his anger at Xiao Ning. "Why are you acting like this? We've been friends for so many years, so how can you not have one ounce of loyalty? Xiao Ning, you're not being a good friend."

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

"I landed the real-estate job so I'll probably be busy for the next few months. Once everything kicks off, I'll just toss it over to the sales team. I'll be able to take it easy after that." The three sat beside one another facing the bar where the chef cooked the sizzling Thai shrimp on the teppanT/n: Flat iron grill, with Lu Yan being the one sandwiched between them. Leaning over to Xia Li, he asked, "So what'd you buy?"

"A date?" Lu Yan's brows crinkled slightly, as he then turned his head to Xiao Ning to ask: "With Wang Hua?"

What should I wear tomorrow? If it's Shan Haiming's brother, wouldn't that be my boss? Should I wear something formal then? But... taking Shan Haiming's style into consideration, too formal wouldn't be that good. Anyhow, who could the other friend be?

"Thank you." Xia Li very cooperatively put on a gleeful look, lowering himself to enter. Afterwards, Xiao Ning himself then entered the back seat.

But Xiao Ning replied, "That would be inconvenient."

Lu Yan with one hand on the steering wheel, tilted his head to look at Xia Li. "No, seriously, tell me. Why is the relationship between you two so friendly? Just what exactly have you two been chatting about?"

"Be careful on the road." After saying this, Xiao Ning turned and left.

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

Narrowing his eyes, Xiao Ning couldn't help but think of Shan Haiming. He now understood the other man a little more. Having a fake intimate relationship with someone to use as an excuse was surprisingly very useful.

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

"There's someone coming to pick me up." Xiao Ning kept the faint smile on his face, giving Xia Li a nod. "Bye, and enjoy yourself, alright."

"Isn't our relationship being good, not alright?" Xiao Ning teased, "Don't worry, I'm not going to run off with your Xia Li."

Lu Yan's grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly, his gaze lowering somewhat before lifting it. "Fine. I won't get in your way. Can I drop you off there then?"

Lu yan didn't pat attention to him at all, however, only seriously staring at Niao Ning. A smile was clearly shown on his face, but not one trace of it could be seen in his eyes.

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

"Of course not! But it is inconvenient for me." Even if Xiao Ning couldn't agree; his tone was still much lighter. "You and Xia Li are having a good time as a couple, what fun do you think coming along would allow you two to have? There nothing interesting there."

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

"Why don't you have this?" Xiao Ning used his chopsticks to point at the thinks on Lu Yan's plate, "It won't taste good if it gets cold."

Pulling his brows tightly; LuYan turned a little to stare at Xiao Ning.

in the end, Lu Yan could not keep his composure, his tone now filled with criticism, as if he was wronged, while he gritted is teeth, "Why is it inconvenient? Am I not fit to be seen?"

Xia Li laughed out hearing this, then said, "We were chatting about Xiao Ning's date tomorrow."

Even though his tone sounded playful, Xiao Ning could hear the stubbornness within his voice. But his date with Shan Haiming absolutely could not be broken, so Xiao Ning, with a laugh, replied, "It's already been set."

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

During the ride, not a soul said a word. Xia Li felt awkward. He wanted to say something, but couldn't dare utter a peep. He had no ideas if doing so would be alright, or what the hell was currently going on.

But Xiao Ning replied, "That would be inconvenient."

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

This made Lu Yan turn his head back, but his brows still remained drawn. First muttering to himself, he then said with a smile, "What date, huh? It's better to hang with me and Xia Li."

When it came to Lu Yan's change of attitude, Xia Li didn't notice at all, chiming in smilingly from the side, "It's not a dinner party."

Even though his tone sounded playful, Xiao Ning could hear the stubbornness within his voice. But his date with Shan Haiming absolutely could not be broken, so Xiao Ning, with a laugh, replied, "It's already been set."

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

Those two words... "new friend", if anyone else didn't listen carefully, they wouldn't be able to sense the abnormality within them. But Xiao Ning wasn't anyone else, he could guess the intention behind them just by the small twitch of Lu Yan's brows. So hearing those words, he immediately understood that Lu Yan's strange self-centred fit of anger was severe.

What exactly was different about it? Lu Yan couldn't actually say, so all could do was stubbornly fix his gaze on Xiao Ning, hoping just like every other time before, the man would just compromise for him.

What exactly was different about it? Lu Yan couldn't actually say, so all could do was stubbornly fix his gaze on Xiao Ning, hoping just like every other time before, the man would just compromise for him.

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

Xiao Ning picked up a shrimp with his chopsticks, taking a bite. "You don't know them."

"If it's been set, it can also be broken." Lu Yan twisted his mouth, continuing, "Since you and Xia Li get along so well, you can just hang out with us. You're not fond of dinner parties to begin with anyhow."

Xia Li eyes widened a bit from beside them, originally, Lu Yan and him planned to go see a stage play that Monday night so how could he just change their plans like that?

When it came to Lu Yan's change of attitude, Xia Li didn't notice at all, chiming in smilingly from the side, "It's not a dinner party."

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

iana: If Lu Yan knew, this would've been a different story.

This made Lu Yan turn his head back, but his brows still remained drawn. First muttering to himself, he then said with a smile, "What date, huh? It's better to hang with me and Xia Li."

Lu yan didn't pat attention to him at all, however, only seriously staring at Niao Ning. A smile was clearly shown on his face, but not one trace of it could be seen in his eyes.

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

Lu yan didn't pat attention to him at all, however, only seriously staring at Niao Ning. A smile was clearly shown on his face, but not one trace of it could be seen in his eyes.

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

Xia Li was even more shocked now, Lu Yan was an uninhibited romantic when it came to playing around. When his affection was strong, he spoke sweet coaxing words smoothly, but if he didn't pay care though, he revealed an attitude of dispensability. Although this attitude made people feel as if they couldn't hold onto him, it also made added to his appeal.

Xia Li blinked, implicitly and explicitly showing off his "I just know~" look. His provocative look made Lu Yan hot under the collar, prompting him to cuddle up next Xia Li, teasing him. The two now went at it back and forth, their questions seeming no different than flirting, the earlier issue regarding Xiao Ning long tossed aside.

Lu Yan wanted to ask him again but Xia Li spoke up from beside him. "Why don't you have another serving of snowflake beef? Lu Yan?"

What will happen though? You guys are free to guess.

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

Thinking about the atmosphere between those two which made others unable to get in, Xia Li pinched his lips together lightly, worriedly wondering if he let himself be relieved too early.

Lu Yan brought the car over slowly, and Xiao Ning subconsciously walked over to the front passengers seat, the pause in his action faintly undetectable, as he still moved to open the door at once. Imitating a gentleman, he then looked to Xia Li and smiled, "If you please."

Lu Yan's grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly, his gaze lowering somewhat before lifting it. "Fine. I won't get in your way. Can I drop you off there then?"

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

Those two words... "new friend", if anyone else didn't listen carefully, they wouldn't be able to sense the abnormality within them. But Xiao Ning wasn't anyone else, he could guess the intention behind them just by the small twitch of Lu Yan's brows. So hearing those words, he immediately understood that Lu Yan's strange self-centred fit of anger was severe.

What exactly was different about it? Lu Yan couldn't actually say, so all could do was stubbornly fix his gaze on Xiao Ning, hoping just like every other time before, the man would just compromise for him.

"Huh, I don't think so." Lu Yan now turned his entire body around, propping his elbow on the table. "You only have a few friends, is there still anyone I don't know?"

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

If Lu Yan knew Xiao Ning was gay, what would happen then?

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

Xia Li was even more shocked now, Lu Yan was an uninhibited romantic when it came to playing around. When his affection was strong, he spoke sweet coaxing words smoothly, but if he didn't pay care though, he revealed an attitude of dispensability. Although this attitude made people feel as if they couldn't hold onto him, it also made added to his appeal.

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

Xia Li laughed out hearing this, then said, "We were chatting about Xiao Ning's date tomorrow."

In the end, Xia Li chose a belt which cost a little over three thousand, and because it was a gift, Xiao Ning didn't offer to help him pay. After this, he accompanied Xia Li to buy a bag as well as some pyjamas, but during all that, maybe due to Shan Haiming's phone call and the things Xia Li overheard, the younger man no longer treated him with suspicion, allowing him to sigh with relief. Even if Xiao Ning doesn't care about Lu Yan, he still didn't want other people always bickering with him.

"We're going." Lu Yan turn around with an expressionless face, instantly starting the car and using practical actions to block Xia Ning's words.

"Just some random stuff. The shower gel I wanted to buy was out of stock though, so can I just use yours for the time being?" Propping his head on his hand, Xia Li then turned to face him, "I already asked Xiao Ning about this, but are there any places to rent in your apartment building?"

During the ride, not a soul said a word. Xia Li felt awkward. He wanted to say something, but couldn't dare utter a peep. He had no ideas if doing so would be alright, or what the hell was currently going on.

Seeing the two of them, Xiao Ning believed straightening out his thoughts and making a decision earlier would allow him to have no issue when facing Lu Yan or Xia Li alone. But now, seeing how intimate and affectionate the two acted towards one another, a dull ache of regret pierced his gaze, running all the way down to his heart.

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

Lu Yan stared at his retreating back, his anger boiling. Pounding the steering wheel once, he then sucked in his rage before furiously stepping on the gas, driving away.

◈◇◈

Lu Yan stared at his retreating back, his anger boiling. Pounding the steering wheel once, he then sucked in his rage before furiously stepping on the gas, driving away.

Seeing the two of them, Xiao Ning believed straightening out his thoughts and making a decision earlier would allow him to have no issue when facing Lu Yan or Xia Li alone. But now, seeing how intimate and affectionate the two acted towards one another, a dull ache of regret pierced his gaze, running all the way down to his heart.

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

But Xiao Ning replied, "That would be inconvenient."

As he spoke, he exited the car. But while the car door was still open, he heard Lu Yan speak, "If that's the case, Xia Li and I will go with you. I also want to meet this new friend of yours."

What exactly was different about it? Lu Yan couldn't actually say, so all could do was stubbornly fix his gaze on Xiao Ning, hoping just like every other time before, the man would just compromise for him.

Those two words... "new friend", if anyone else didn't listen carefully, they wouldn't be able to sense the abnormality within them. But Xiao Ning wasn't anyone else, he could guess the intention behind them just by the small twitch of Lu Yan's brows. So hearing those words, he immediately understood that Lu Yan's strange self-centred fit of anger was severe.

After eating, Lu Yan planned to drive Xiao Ning back to the house beyond the third ringT/n: A-City (based on Beijing) has a circular expressway made up of seven rings starting from the centre leading outwards., assuming as per usual the other man would have nothing to do at night and would be returning home following their chat to stay in. Xiao Ning actually had nothing to do, but he declined the offer with a smile nonetheless, saying, "It's too far, and there's no need fr you to go that far out of the way. I can just take a take a cab back. You two should go have fun."

Lu Yan wanted to ask him again but Xia Li spoke up from beside him. "Why don't you have another serving of snowflake beef? Lu Yan?"

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

But what else could he have said? Xiao Ning resisted the urge to fall back into his habit of wanting to compromise. They couldn't keep going on like this. So maybe they can gradually grow accustomed to this change. It's better to warm up to it first.

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

When the chef turned his back to them, Xia Li took advantage of this opportunity to give Lu Yan a quick peck on the cheek. "Why are you so upset?"

"I landed the real-estate job so I'll probably be busy for the next few months. Once everything kicks off, I'll just toss it over to the sales team. I'll be able to take it easy after that." The three sat beside one another facing the bar where the chef cooked the sizzling Thai shrimp on the teppanT/n: Flat iron grill, with Lu Yan being the one sandwiched between them. Leaning over to Xia Li, he asked, "So what'd you buy?"

The chef placed the cooked shrimp on the three plates, while Xiao Ning replied, "No, another friend."

He didn't join in on the conversation between them. Firstly, because he had no wish of becoming a third wheel, and secondly, because he had no interest in saying a word. He wanted nothing more than to not stay there for a second longer, yet he still sat beside them quietly, listening and looking on.

"I landed the real-estate job so I'll probably be busy for the next few months. Once everything kicks off, I'll just toss it over to the sales team. I'll be able to take it easy after that." The three sat beside one another facing the bar where the chef cooked the sizzling Thai shrimp on the teppanT/n: Flat iron grill, with Lu Yan being the one sandwiched between them. Leaning over to Xia Li, he asked, "So what'd you buy?"

"But he has plans with other people too." Xia Li then wore a vague smile as he continued, "He even has a dateT/n: the word for date is also used to refer to any appointment. with someone tomorrow."

Xia Li eyes widened a bit from beside them, originally, Lu Yan and him planned to go see a stage play that Monday night so how could he just change their plans like that?

Those two words... "new friend", if anyone else didn't listen carefully, they wouldn't be able to sense the abnormality within them. But Xiao Ning wasn't anyone else, he could guess the intention behind them just by the small twitch of Lu Yan's brows. So hearing those words, he immediately understood that Lu Yan's strange self-centred fit of anger was severe.

Following what seemed like an eternity, that aforementioned fella finally called. He was done with his business at work and was preparing to go find them. So, finding another coffee shop, the two sat and waited. Xiao Ning ordered himself a cup of tea, he was old, so he couldn't handle drinking more than two cups of a caffeinated beverage in one day.

Lost in thought over the next day's mission, Xiao Ning had completely forgotten all about the two beside him.

But Xiao Ning replied, "That would be inconvenient."

Narrowing his eyes, Xiao Ning couldn't help but think of Shan Haiming. He now understood the other man a little more. Having a fake intimate relationship with someone to use as an excuse was surprisingly very useful.

Following what seemed like an eternity, that aforementioned fella finally called. He was done with his business at work and was preparing to go find them. So, finding another coffee shop, the two sat and waited. Xiao Ning ordered himself a cup of tea, he was old, so he couldn't handle drinking more than two cups of a caffeinated beverage in one day.

The silence of that ride continued until they arrived at the neighbourhood entrance, with Xiao Ning saying, "Drop me off here. This afternoon was fun."

Which is comparatively better, right?

◈◇◈

in the end, Lu Yan could not keep his composure, his tone now filled with criticism, as if he was wronged, while he gritted is teeth, "Why is it inconvenient? Am I not fit to be seen?"

Lu Yan turned to look at him. "Huh? Really? I'll get Xiao Ning to hang out with you more then. I'll be pretty busy these days anyhow."

In the end, Xia Li chose a belt which cost a little over three thousand, and because it was a gift, Xiao Ning didn't offer to help him pay. After this, he accompanied Xia Li to buy a bag as well as some pyjamas, but during all that, maybe due to Shan Haiming's phone call and the things Xia Li overheard, the younger man no longer treated him with suspicion, allowing him to sigh with relief. Even if Xiao Ning doesn't care about Lu Yan, he still didn't want other people always bickering with him.

Lost in thought over the next day's mission, Xiao Ning had completely forgotten all about the two beside him.

"A date?" Lu Yan's brows crinkled slightly, as he then turned his head to Xiao Ning to ask: "With Wang Hua?"

Xia Li eyes widened a bit from beside them, originally, Lu Yan and him planned to go see a stage play that Monday night so how could he just change their plans like that?

Xia Li was even more shocked now, Lu Yan was an uninhibited romantic when it came to playing around. When his affection was strong, he spoke sweet coaxing words smoothly, but if he didn't pay care though, he revealed an attitude of dispensability. Although this attitude made people feel as if they couldn't hold onto him, it also made added to his appeal.

"I'll have some too then," Xiao Ning interrupted, catching a glance of Xia Li, sending him a wink while he added, "Lu Yan definitely needs it. He's not happy unless he has meat."

He then thought that about he should first find himself a place to rent and move out of Lu Yan's. He lived that nameless, share-less, faceless, skinless—all in all shameless—kind of life for far too long. It was enough.

Xiao Li nodded in understanding before sincerely and excitedly wishing, "Anyway, I hope everything goes without a hitch for you two. Good luck."

Lu Yan brought the car over slowly, and Xiao Ning subconsciously walked over to the front passengers seat, the pause in his action faintly undetectable, as he still moved to open the door at once. Imitating a gentleman, he then looked to Xia Li and smiled, "If you please."

"Thank you." Xia Li very cooperatively put on a gleeful look, lowering himself to enter. Afterwards, Xiao Ning himself then entered the back seat.

"We're going." Lu Yan turn around with an expressionless face, instantly starting the car and using practical actions to block Xia Ning's words.

Those two words... "new friend", if anyone else didn't listen carefully, they wouldn't be able to sense the abnormality within them. But Xiao Ning wasn't anyone else, he could guess the intention behind them just by the small twitch of Lu Yan's brows. So hearing those words, he immediately understood that Lu Yan's strange self-centred fit of anger was severe.

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

"Isn't our relationship being good, not alright?" Xiao Ning teased, "Don't worry, I'm not going to run off with your Xia Li."

"Of course not! But it is inconvenient for me." Even if Xiao Ning couldn't agree; his tone was still much lighter. "You and Xia Li are having a good time as a couple, what fun do you think coming along would allow you two to have? There nothing interesting there."

He then thought that about he should first find himself a place to rent and move out of Lu Yan's. He lived that nameless, share-less, faceless, skinless—all in all shameless—kind of life for far too long. It was enough.

Xia Li blinked, implicitly and explicitly showing off his "I just know~" look. His provocative look made Lu Yan hot under the collar, prompting him to cuddle up next Xia Li, teasing him. The two now went at it back and forth, their questions seeming no different than flirting, the earlier issue regarding Xiao Ning long tossed aside.

As he spoke, he exited the car. But while the car door was still open, he heard Lu Yan speak, "If that's the case, Xia Li and I will go with you. I also want to meet this new friend of yours."

"Be careful on the road." After saying this, Xiao Ning turned and left.

He knew Lu Yan for so long, but when has Xia Li ever seen this side of Lu Yan's?

Lu Yan with one hand on the steering wheel, tilted his head to look at Xia Li. "No, seriously, tell me. Why is the relationship between you two so friendly? Just what exactly have you two been chatting about?"

Annoyed by the two echoing each other, deflated, Lu Yan nodded. "Fine. I'll have some."

"If it's not interesting, why are you still going, then?" Lu Yan raised his voice by a lot, directing his anger at Xiao Ning. "Why are you acting like this? We've been friends for so many years, so how can you not have one ounce of loyalty? Xiao Ning, you're not being a good friend."

"Another friend?" Lu Yan looked visibly shocked, "Who?"

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

Xiao Ning shook his head. "We haven't known each for too long."

"Actually, if he asks, it won't be a problem if you just tell him." Xiao Nng figured he'd have to reveal it sooner or later, so there wasn't anything wrong with Lu Yan getting the news from Xia Li.

Lu Yan with one hand on the steering wheel, tilted his head to look at Xia Li. "No, seriously, tell me. Why is the relationship between you two so friendly? Just what exactly have you two been chatting about?"

Lu Yan turned to look at him. "Huh? Really? I'll get Xiao Ning to hang out with you more then. I'll be pretty busy these days anyhow."

"Of course not! But it is inconvenient for me." Even if Xiao Ning couldn't agree; his tone was still much lighter. "You and Xia Li are having a good time as a couple, what fun do you think coming along would allow you two to have? There nothing interesting there."

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

"Thanks!" Xia Li beamed at him, scooting a bit closer. "I bought something for you too. I'll give it to you when we get back."

Lu Yan's grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly, his gaze lowering somewhat before lifting it. "Fine. I won't get in your way. Can I drop you off there then?"

He didn't join in on the conversation between them. Firstly, because he had no wish of becoming a third wheel, and secondly, because he had no interest in saying a word. He wanted nothing more than to not stay there for a second longer, yet he still sat beside them quietly, listening and looking on.

Lu Yan turned to look at him. "Huh? Really? I'll get Xiao Ning to hang out with you more then. I'll be pretty busy these days anyhow."

Xiao Ning sighed, his eyes seeming to be covered by a faint layer of helplessness. "I'm the one at fault, alright? You shouldn't take it to heart, it'll just put you guys in a bad mood."

"There's someone coming to pick me up." Xiao Ning kept the faint smile on his face, giving Xia Li a nod. "Bye, and enjoy yourself, alright."

On that topic, he wondered whether he should take a few pictures of Shan Haiming, or whether should he give Shan Haiming some pictures of himself to increase their credibility? The two have never even exchanged text messages, so to a person as conscientious in everything they do in life like Xiao Ning, these things were really too perfunctory.

On that topic, he wondered whether he should take a few pictures of Shan Haiming, or whether should he give Shan Haiming some pictures of himself to increase their credibility? The two have never even exchanged text messages, so to a person as conscientious in everything they do in life like Xiao Ning, these things were really too perfunctory.

Xiao Ning only smiled without saying a word in return. The smiling expression he wore was no different than the one earlier, but Lu Yan felt an angry and flustered feeling rise within him. Although it wasn't that Xiao Ning had never politely declined him in the past because he had other plans, it was just that this time, something about it felt different.

Lu yan didn't pat attention to him at all, however, only seriously staring at Niao Ning. A smile was clearly shown on his face, but not one trace of it could be seen in his eyes.

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

Xia Li gave an embarrassed smile in return. "You too."

"Xiao Ning is pretty nice, and not at all boring like you said." Xia Li's lips curled upwards, as he now looked past Lu Yan over to Xiao Ning. "We had a nice chat, right?"

Xiao Ning shook his head. "We haven't known each for too long."

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

"Be careful on the road." After saying this, Xiao Ning turned and left.

Which is comparatively better, right?

Lu Yan turned to look at him. "Huh? Really? I'll get Xiao Ning to hang out with you more then. I'll be pretty busy these days anyhow."

"I landed the real-estate job so I'll probably be busy for the next few months. Once everything kicks off, I'll just toss it over to the sales team. I'll be able to take it easy after that." The three sat beside one another facing the bar where the chef cooked the sizzling Thai shrimp on the teppanT/n: Flat iron grill, with Lu Yan being the one sandwiched between them. Leaning over to Xia Li, he asked, "So what'd you buy?"

"Be careful on the road." After saying this, Xiao Ning turned and left.

The Reason

Lu Yan stared at his retreating back, his anger boiling. Pounding the steering wheel once, he then sucked in his rage before furiously stepping on the gas, driving away.

Annoyed by the two echoing each other, deflated, Lu Yan nodded. "Fine. I'll have some."

Finally aware that the atmosphere wasn't good, Xia Li confusedly and nervously looked on at Lu Yan's tightened side profile as he kept on staring at Xiao Ning. Noticing his gaze, Xiao Ning smiled even more gently, saying, "Forget it. I'll just call for a taxi."

A tiny smile drew itself on Xiao Ning's face during all this, as he felt as though he had quickly advanced. Strangely enough, the bit of numbness he felt in his chest right then, much to the contrary, felt a bit better.

While waiting on the sidewalk for Lu Yan to bring the car around, Xia Li and Xiao Ning chatted. "It's really really hard for me to hold this back! I hope you have lots of fun tomorrow."

Seeing the two of them, Xiao Ning believed straightening out his thoughts and making a decision earlier would allow him to have no issue when facing Lu Yan or Xia Li alone. But now, seeing how intimate and affectionate the two acted towards one another, a dull ache of regret pierced his gaze, running all the way down to his heart.

Xiao Ning picked up a shrimp with his chopsticks, taking a bite. "You don't know them."

Lu Yan didn't think for a second before responding, "Rent what apartment? If you want to live in A-City, just stay with me for now. After you get on your feet we can talk about it again."

Thinking about the atmosphere between those two which made others unable to get in, Xia Li pinched his lips together lightly, worriedly wondering if he let himself be relieved too early.

Lu Yan brought the car over slowly, and Xiao Ning subconsciously walked over to the front passengers seat, the pause in his action faintly undetectable, as he still moved to open the door at once. Imitating a gentleman, he then looked to Xia Li and smiled, "If you please."

He was hesitant to mention the matter of Xiao Ning having a boyfriend, however, there was deeper worry he was afraid to voice out loud.

Pulling his brows tightly; LuYan turned a little to stare at Xiao Ning.

If Lu Yan knew Xiao Ning was gay, what would happen then?

Xiao Ning picked up a shrimp with his chopsticks, taking a bite. "You don't know them."