“I’m here, I’m okay.” Chen Xu grasped Si Ye’s hands, letting him feel his warmth.
Si Ye’s expression was dazed for a few seconds. Recognizing Chen Xu, he pulled him into a tight embrace, his arms as solid as steel, making Chen Xu’s bones ache.
“Xiao Xu, Xiao Xu…” Si Ye kept calling his name, as if confirming his existence.
Chen Xu complied, pressing close to him and answering repeatedly, “I’m here, I’m fine.”
Si Ye’s eyes were red, bloodshot, and he lowered his head to kiss Chen Xu’s forehead, his lips trembling.
His Xiao Xu was still here. He hadn’t lost him again.
Chen Xu never expected that, despite being the one directly involved, he didn’t develop PTSD, but Si Ye seemed to be showing signs of it.
But why was this happening?
It wasn’t that Chen Xu underestimated Si Ye’s feelings for him, but Si Ye hadn’t witnessed him nearly perishing in the fire. Moreover, it was just the third floor. Except for a minor hand injury, he was almost unscathed. Si Ye’s reaction seemed overly intense.
Chen Xu sluggishly recalled past events. It seemed Si Ye had always been particularly vigilant about his safety. For example, when he won a car, Si Ye had stopped him from driving it, citing safety concerns, even though it was a high-end car worth over two million yuan, something an ordinary family couldn’t afford.
These past clues began to connect, making Chen Xu suspicious.
His mind was a tangled mess, with everything seemingly related but not fully connecting.
Chen Xu stayed with Si Ye at the hotel. Due to the fire, the competition was postponed.
Fortunately, he had saved the dress; otherwise, all his efforts would have been in vain.
Given Si Ye’s status, no one dared to trouble Chen Xu, allowing him a couple of days of peace to dote on Si Ye.
During the day, Si Ye seemed normal, handling some work. But at night, Chen Xu noticed Si Ye frequently waking from nightmares, drenched in cold sweat.
“Sorry, I woke you. I’ll sleep on the sofa,” Si Ye said, preparing to leave the bed.
“No, you won’t,” Chen Xu grabbed his wrist, pulling him back into his arms, gently patting his back.
“Uncle Si, are you doing this to make me worry?” Chen Xu teased, kissing Si Ye’s chin. In the dark, Si Ye gazed at him deeply.
The bitter, sour emotions seemed to overflow from Si Ye, spreading everywhere, even tasting bitter on his tongue.
Si Ye’s usual strength crumbled at this moment. He carefully kissed Chen Xu’s lips, as if afraid he was a fragile illusion, but couldn’t help testing its reality.
His cautiousness pained Chen Xu, who passionately reciprocated to prove his vitality.
Chen Xu rolled over, looking down at Si Ye. He guided Si Ye’s strong hand under his thin clothes to his heart.
The steady, strong heartbeat gradually calmed Si Ye.
The moonlight shone through the window, illuminating Chen Xu’s face. The stark contrast of black and white, his naturally red lips, formed a breathtaking, pure yet enchanting image.
Chen Xu lowered his head, his lips brushing over Si Ye’s brow, eyes, and downwards.
In the night, a low sigh resonated.
…
“I heard Zhuo Shunan might come. Is it true?”
“No way, the great one has been retired for years. If she were coming, there’d have been some buzz.”
“The judges were already decided. Must be fake.”
“Not really. It might be because of Zhuo Ruibo.”
“What does that arsonist have to do with it?”
“I heard Zhuo Ruibo is her nephew. Given the incident, she had to come.”
“No way, really?”
Indeed, Zhuo Shunan had come. Initially, her husband wanted to keep this from her to let her rest, but her family approached her while he was away, seeking her help.
Zhuo Ruibo was her elder brother’s youngest son, interested in fashion design. Her brother had repeatedly asked her to take him as a student. Despite her lack of energy, she had assessed Zhuo Ruibo’s ability, finding him mediocre but arrogant, failing to heed her advice.
She had hoped he’d mature with age, but never imagined he’d commit arson to destroy someone else’s work.
With his skills, he couldn’t have reached the finals without cheating, which brought her here today.
“I need to see Zhuo Ruibo’s submissions,” Zhuo Shunan demanded.
Looking through his works, her frown deepened.
They were all copies of her unpublished designs, explaining his success in reaching the finals.
“Are there any issues?” the organizer, a friend of Zhuo Shunan, asked.
Her disappointment grew. “These designs are copied from mine.”
“What?!” The organizer scrutinized the works. “No wonder they seemed familiar. That explains it.”
“Has he finished his final piece?” Zhuo Shunan guessed Zhuo Ruibo might also copy her work for the final.
“It’s done. I’ll show you.” On the way to Zhuo Ruibo’s workspace, they passed Chen Xu’s burnt workroom.
“What a pity,” Zhuo Shunan remarked, sympathizing with the unknown designer who had lost so much.
The organizer smiled, “He’s quite remarkable. Not only did he save himself, but also his work. Would you like to see it?”
Surprised, Zhuo Shunan agreed, “Of course, if it’s not too much trouble.”
“Your presence will delight the contestants,” the organizer said.
As expected, Zhuo Ruibo had indeed stolen her design for the final piece, adding to her anger as it was a design for her youngest son.
“Shunan, are you okay?” her friend asked, seeing her pale and breathless.
“I need to rest,” she managed, rubbing her temples.
“Let me take you to rest.” Knowing her health issues, her friend quickly led her to a rest area.
…
On the competition day, Chen Xu woke early to prepare with the models.
Given Si Ye’s status, he was given a VIP seat.
The lights dimmed as models walked the runway, judges scrutinizing their works and exchanging opinions.
The contestants were notable new designers with commendable works. But when a crimson dress appeared, its golden hem shimmering like a phoenix reborn from fire, it captivated everyone.
“It has a touch of your younger days,” her friend commented.
Zhuo Shunan smiled, “The younger generation is impressive. I wasn’t this good back then.”
“You were the queen of fashion design.”
“Marrying early was unfortunate. Sometimes I want to punch your husband,” he joked.
She laughed, recalling the generous wedding gift he had given.
After the show, the designers joined their models on stage. The judges, pretending to be indifferent, eagerly sought the designer of the unforgettable dress.
Finally, a tall young man appeared. His presence lit up the room, making everyone else fade into the background.
In a gem-blue suit, his narrow waist and long legs, with a sapphire earring on his ivory skin, he radiated under the spotlight.
Cameras focused on him, capturing his every angle.
“So handsome even from difficult angles. Perfect for the headlines!”
“A designer this good-looking should model instead. He’s overshadowing the model beside him!”
The most shocked was Zhuo Shunan, her hands trembling.
How could he look so much like him?
She didn’t dare hope but couldn’t help wondering if it was really him.
She barely noticed the competition’s end or her own comments on the contestants’ works. Her gaze never left that tall figure.
Holding his trophy, Chen Xu excitedly ran to find Si Ye, thinking about celebrating and spending his birthday with him.
Imagining their intimate time, Chen Xu blushed, his heart racing.
“Congratulations,” Si Ye said, opening his arms.
Chen Xu leaped into his embrace, the two holding each other tightly. Chen Xu handed the trophy to Si Ye. “My first trophy, for you.”
“Can I?” Si Ye asked, surprised.
“Of course. I’ll win many more trophies for you.” Chen Xu’s clear gaze made Si Ye’s heart race.
“Alright.” Si Ye kissed his forehead, accepting the trophy.
As they left, they encountered Zhuo Shunan.
“Hello, Aunt Zhuo,” Si Ye greeted politely, he was a junior in front of Zhuo Shunan. Although he wanted to cut Zhuo Ruibo into pieces with a thousand knives, he was still polite when facing Zhuo Shunan.
Zhuo Shunan’s gaze fixed on Chen Xu, her heart tightening as she approached.
“Mr. Si, I’m here to apologize on behalf of my family. We will ensure justice is served,” she said, her voice pulling Si Ye back.
Si Ye nodded, appreciating her effort. He had called Lin Penghan for this very reason. Despite her health issues, he didn’t expect Zhuo Shunan to come personally.
“Thank you, Aunt Zhuo.”
She smiled and turned to Chen Xu, speaking gently. “You must be Chen Xu? Your work is very talented. At your age, I wasn’t nearly as good.”
Her praise made Chen Xu, even if said for Si Ye’s benefit, feel elated. “Thank you, Ms. Zhuo. I’m far from your level.”
His polite, slightly distant smile made her heart ache. “How old are you?”
Not understanding why she asked, Chen Xu replied, “Nineteen.”
Her heart skipped a beat. “You…”
Si Ye interrupted, “Aunt Zhuo, Xiao Xu is tired. Can we continue this another day?”
Zhuo Shunan realized that it was a bit rude to keep people here for so long. “I’m sorry, I was negligent. Let’s see you another day.”
Chen Xu said goodbye politely to Zhuo Shunan, and then left holding hands with Si Ye.
Seeing the hands held by Chen Xu and Si Ye, Zhuo Shunan suddenly remembered that the other person’s name on Si Ye’s wedding invitation seemed to be Chen Xu.
??
Zhuo Shunan looked at the two of them leaving in disbelief, a little unable to accept it for a moment.
??
Chen Xu married Si Ye at such a young age, and Si Ye was ten years older than Chen Xu.
She covered her panicked heart and took out her cell phone to call her husband.
“I think I’ve found him…”
….
Chen Xu and Si Ye returned to the hotel, they discussed birthday plans.
“I’m fine with anything,” Chen Xu said. As long as he was with Si Ye, it didn’t matter.
“Let’s go home then,” Si Ye suggested.
“Sure. Are we leaving now?” Chen Xu asked.
“Rest first, then we’ll go,” Si Ye kissed his forehead. “Aren’t you tired?”
Chen Xu shook his head. “I’m still a bit excited.”
Winning the award fulfilled his past life’s regret. Though confident in his abilities, receiving the trophy and recognition thrilled him.
He also remembered Zhuo Shunan’s praise. “I forgot to ask for Ms. Zhuo’s contact.”
He didn’t plan to bother her, but having a contact from a legendary figure was exciting.
“Don’t worry. I’ll take you to visit the Lin family,” Si Ye assured him. The Si and Lin families often collaborated, and meeting Zhuo Shunan again wouldn’t be difficult.
“Won’t that be too much trouble?” Chen Xu worried about inconveniencing Si Ye.
“Not at all. You’re my partner. Who else would I bring?” Si Ye’s gaze met his.
Chen Xu’s heart pounded, avoiding Si Ye’s gaze, he nodded, his ears turning red.
Si Ye smiled, kissing his ear.
After lunch, Chen Xu fell asleep. When he woke, Si Ye was packing.
“Are we going home?” Chen Xu asked.
“Yes. Still sleepy?” Si Ye touched his cool face. “Why didn’t you use warm water?”
“Cold water wakes me up,” Chen Xu replied, not seeing the issue, especially in summer.
“Use warm water next time. Don’t catch a cold,” Si Ye instructed.
Though Chen Xu found the habit unnecessary, he nodded obediently.
With everything packed, they boarded the flight home.
“A week away feels like forever,” Chen Xu remarked, dreading returning to school.
“I forgot to buy gifts for Tang Zhen and the others,” he suddenly remembered.
“I had someone buy them,” Si Ye replied.
“Thank you.” Chen Xu kissed his cheek.
“Is that all?” Si Ye teased, Chen Xu leaned in to kiss his lips.
Si Ye grabbed his waist, not letting go. “How many times have I taught you? Still can’t get it right?”
His serious tone made Chen Xu nervous. Si Ye gently but thoroughly kissed him, making Chen Xu’s eyes red and his waist tremble.
Landing at home, Chen Xu’s lips were redder, highlighting his handsome features.
Luckily, they used Si Ye’s private jet, avoiding a scene.
Uncle Zhong, seeing Chen Xu thinner, remarked, “Young Master Xu, you need to eat more.”
Chen Xu smiled, “Thank you, Uncle Zhong.”
In familiar surroundings, Chen Xu stretched. Si Ye entered with the trophy, placing it in a cabinet in the study.
“So many trophies. Are they all yours?” Chen Xu asked, seeing the collection for the first time.
“Yes. I used to think more trophies would prove myself, but later realized it was pointless,” Si Ye said, his gaze deep.
Chen Xu’s heart ached, understanding Si Ye’s implied meaning. Si Ye had sought his parents’ approval, only to find it futile.
He hugged Si Ye. “You’re amazing.”
Si Ye knew Chen Xu’s intent, though unnecessary. “I’d prefer to hear that in bed tonight.”
Blushing, Chen Xu buried his head in Si Ye’s chest, gripping his shirt. “Okay.”
He had thought about it. The timing was perfect for an intimate celebration.
He eagerly anticipated it, though embarrassed.
Si Ye turned him towards the trophies, whispering, “Let’s put our trophies together.”
Feeling warm, Chen Xu agreed. “I’ll win many more.”
“My Xu is amazing. You’ll do it,” Si Ye’s voice was gentle, encouraging Chen Xu.
Having Si Ye to share these words with was heartening. But who had encouraged Si Ye before?
He doubted Si Ye’s parents ever did, focusing only on his brother.
Determined to meet Si Ye’s wishes, despite the embarrassment, Chen Xu vowed to say those words tonight.
After dinner, Si Lin approached, looking conflicted.
“Happy birthday,” Si Lin handed him a box.
“Thank you.” Chen Xu accepted, guessing it contained shoes.
Si Lin seemed eager for him to open it.
“Can I open it?” Chen Xu asked.
“Yes. I spent a long time choosing it. You’ll like it,” Si Lin assured.
Inside were shoes, likely worth around 20,000 yuan.
“Thank you. I like them,” Chen Xu said politely. Though not his preference, he appreciated the thought.
Si Lin’s smile froze, not seeing the expected delight. Friends had assured him shoes were a fail-safe gift for guys.
He recalled forum posts about Chen Xu’s family’s downfall, guessing it affected his mood.
“Don’t mind what they say online. Uncle won’t abandon you because your family’s company failed. Even if that day comes…” Si Lin hesitated, then offered, “You can come to me. I’ll help you.”
“What forum?” Chen Xu frowned.
Keep me fueled with caffeine! Support me on Ko-fi! ?~(????)
Any suggestion for the next project ? for september hh
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Party at night ??
Thanks for the update! ? ? ?