After the swing disperses, the moon grows hazy,

People fill the courtyard.

Carved railings in several places,

A night of wind blowing the remaining apricot blossoms.

In the Zhaoyang Palace, spring clothes are ready,

Golden threads are just dry.

Don’t believe in the morning cold,

Tomorrow we’ll try dancing in front of the flowers.

“Puff!” With a breath, she blew out the candle. Her colleagues around her laughed and shouted, “Hua Yue, make a wish! Quick, make a wish!” Hua Yue pressed her palms together and muttered, “Bless me to marry a rich man! Marry a rich man! Marry a rich man!”

Her best friend Xiao Zhou knocked her on the head, “Hua Yue, can’t you have a bit more ambition? You’re only twenty today, just turning twenty today! Yet all you want is to marry a rich man? How unambitious!” Her tone changed, becoming righteous, “At the very least, you should wish to marry someone who’s both rich and powerful, that’s a proper wish.”

Hua Yue cried out, “That hurts!”

Xiao Zhou knocked her heavily again, “Remember, if you’re going to marry, marry someone rich and powerful!”

Instant karma… Although she, Fang Hua Yue, loved money like life itself, this was at most a minor sin – surely she didn’t deserve heaven’s punishment so quickly?

With a “crack,” purple lightning flashed across the sky. The dark heavens tore open like a ferocious wound. The wind drove the rain against the window, pelting the glass with a rapid pattering. The weather was uncooperative – at noon when everyone pooled money to celebrate her birthday, it had been sunny and bright with beautiful spring light. But as soon as she started her shift, violent wind, and rain began as if the sky might collapse. The heavy downpour continued without any sign of stopping even when her colleagues from the night shift came to take over. She looked at the rain outside, knowing she would be soaked through if she walked home.

Should she spend one yuan to take a tricycle home? Should she? Shouldn’t she? Should she? Shouldn’t she? An intense mental struggle… One yuan… One yuan could buy a fragrant bowl of hot and sour pork noodles, one yuan could buy half a box of cookies, and one yuan could buy a pound of mangoes… There were too many things one yuan could do. Better to run home in the rain – after all, she didn’t live far away.

She casually grabbed a thick stack of newspapers from the nurses’ duty room, held them over her head, and plunged into the curtain of rain. It truly was a downpour, just like people splashing water on her from all directions, instantly soaking her completely. Taking three steps in two, she jumped over a puddle when suddenly she heard the sharp sound of brakes. A glossy black car screeched to a halt less than a meter behind her. She squinted at it – a car that could approach so silently without engine noise must certainly be a luxury brand. Sure enough, it was this year’s new Chevrolet model. Ha… a rich person! Her eyes gleamed brightly. It was this year’s new Chevrolet, definitely a rich person.

The rear window rolled down, and she saw a handsome face. “Miss, are you alright?” A rich, deep male voice – she seemed to hear angel wings flapping in the air, seemed to hear the roses blooming in the flower bed behind her. She heard her own heart pounding rapidly. A Chevrolet prince! A prince in a shiny black Chevrolet… The rain fell gently, just like a romantic movie scene. She brushed aside the wet hair hanging in front of her face and smiled sweetly, “I’m fine…”

Before she could fully display the two pretty dimples on her cheeks, an arm suddenly reached out from behind and pulled her aside, immediately opening a large black umbrella over her head, blocking the romantic raindrops. She turned her head and couldn’t help but glare coldly, “Three-Five, why is it you again?”

She knew that today was marked by unexpected changes. First, the weather turned bad, storming with heavy rain on her twentieth birthday, drenching her like a drowned rat. Just when her pitiful drowned-rat self encountered a charming prince in a Chevrolet, this Three-Five appeared to interfere. The sight of his handsome face made her angry, “You brat, what are you doing here?”

He replied casually, “This is a hospital, of course, I came to visit a patient.” She turned her head away, watching helplessly as the shiny black Chevrolet drove out of the hospital gate. Her—Prince! Wuwu…

She glared at the brat in front of her. Hmph! She was always annoyed whenever she saw him; he was truly a plague god. Every time he came, it happened to be when the entire hospital was extremely busy. But all the nurses in her department liked him and enjoyed chatting with him. He also liked joining the commotion – seeing them running around frantically, he would invite them for ice cream, rice noodles, or melons after their shift handover… So whenever they saw him, everyone was excited and eager to finish their shift.

Seeing that she seemed to want to bore two transparent holes through him with her gaze, he couldn’t help but laugh, “Why do you seem to have a grudge against me?” She gritted her teeth – of course, she had a grudge against him. From the day he borrowed three yuan and fifty cents from her, they had been at odds.

It was a sweltering afternoon when she walked from home to the hospital, already drenched in sweat. The sun was scorching, seemingly evaporating the last drop of moisture from her body. Being extremely thirsty, she couldn’t resist running to the small shop next to the hospital and extravagantly bought a bottle of soda. Gulping down half the bottle in one go, she felt refreshingly cool to the core. Contentedly sipping the remaining soda, she couldn’t help thinking that three maos were indeed three maos… a three-mao soda was more refreshing than a five-fen cold tea. Perhaps as heaven’s punishment for this sudden extravagance, a voice suddenly came from behind, “Excuse me, miss, could you lend me three yuan and fifty cents?”

To be honest, her first impression of Three-Five wasn’t bad. What’s the word to describe him? Like a jade tree facing the wind… He was tall and upright, standing gracefully – truly elegant. Especially when he smiled slightly, his black eyes as dark as night seemed to flash with starlight. His fine white teeth made his smile even more bright and clear. “I’m sorry, I bought a pack of cigarettes but didn’t bring money.”

She almost blacked out and fell to the ground. Such a handsome and elegant man had no money? What a waste of good looks! She must have been bewitched, surely bewitched, to lend him three yuan and fifty cents as if possessed. Every time she thought about that scene, she would angrily beat her breast in regret, convinced she had truly been possessed. She had always been cautious and frugal, or to put it bluntly, stingy. Yes, she had always prided herself on being stingy.

The consequence of her momentary lapse in lending him three yuan and fifty cents was that, that very afternoon while she was working, Three-Five suddenly appeared at the door of the nurses’ station, naturally causing a commotion. Just imagine, a group of predatory… no, no, a group of beautiful young nurses suddenly seeing a handsome young man – although she hated this brat, she always acknowledged honestly that he looked quite decent – those beautiful young nurses naturally felt dazzled. Finally, Xiao Zhou asked, “Sir, may I help you?”

He smiled slightly, his smile as brilliant as the sun outside, “Is there a Miss Fang Hua Yue here?”

Xiao Zhou persistently asked, “What business do you have with Fang Hua Yue?”

“I borrowed three yuan and fifty cents from her at noon today, and now I’ve come to return it.”

That sentence! That sentence condemned her to eternal damnation! Eternal damnation! Because of that one sentence, everyone spread the rumor that the number one porcelain beauty at Jiangshan General Hospital – nicknamed the “porcelain beauty” by colleagues due to her extreme stinginess. She didn’t mind this nickname, as it sounded much better than “iron rooster” (a Chinese idiom for extreme stinginess). She, the dignified number one porcelain beauty of Jiangshan General Hospital, had her impenetrable armor of stinginess broken by a handsome boy. Her lifetime reputation was ruined, completely ruined. She had been captivated by good looks and lent money to a stranger. What other reason could there be? Of course, she had been captivated by his good looks! Bewitched by this handsome boy, she changed her porcelain beauty nature and lent out the enormous sum of three yuan and fifty cents. Three—yuan—and—fifty!

Amid her colleagues’ snickering, she snatched the three-yuan-fifty-cent bill from his hand and coldly said, “You can leave now!”

But he still didn’t take the hint, “Thank you, Miss Fang. I was embarrassed at the time. I’m so sorry. May I treat you to a fruit ice after work?”

She rolled her eyes, “This miss isn’t interested.”

Xiao Zhou mischievously chimed in from the side, “Our Hua Yue rescued you from dire straits, and you think fruit ice is enough? If you’re treating, it should be a Western dinner!”

Hmph! Brat, don’t think you can flirt with me just because you’re handsome. Momentarily being kind-hearted and lending him three-fifty was already a grave mistake; how could she allow him to make another one? If she had accepted his invitation, wouldn’t she be laughed at by all her colleagues in the hospital? Laughed at for being captivated by good looks and accepting the pursuit of a brat who didn’t even carry three yuan and fifty cents? Never mind Western dinner, she wasn’t interested in Eastern dinner either.

As a result, this brat stuck to her like glue, appearing at the nurses’ station every few days. Being handsome had at least one advantage – it didn’t make people dislike him. No one could get angry seeing his handsome, spirited face. He also knew how to win girls’ favor, always bestowing small favors, treating them to this and that. Hmph, the result was that he bought everyone’s hearts, making them all side with him. Every time he came, someone would meaningfully call out to her, “Hua Yue! Hua Yue! Three-Five is here again!” This nickname “Three-Five” was given to him by all the nurses in their department, and it had always been her great shame. Every time she heard it, it seemed to remind her that her lifetime reputation was ruined by this brat. Hmph!

Like today, he suddenly appeared again. In such heavy rain, he had leisurely brought an umbrella, posing as if he had arrived just in time to shelter her from the wind and rain. Who did he think he was? Xu Xian? Unfortunately, she was not White Snake with a moved mortal heart. Or maybe she should be the snake demon after all, give him a vicious bite and poison him so badly that he’d fear well ropes for ten years and never dare appear before her again. She was infinitely grateful that she had already finished her shift and didn’t have to listen to her colleagues’ chatter. But as usual, she glared at him fiercely, “You seem very free? Always coming to our hospital, what line of work are you in? So free that you don’t need to work?”

He answered, “I’m in the Navy—currently on leave, the ship is undergoing major repairs, so everyone on board is on vacation.”

They say the military has good benefits, with full pay even during vacations. She envied him for a moment, but quickly came to her senses, still speaking unkindly, “If you’re on vacation, why do you keep coming to our hospital? Are you sick?”

He didn’t get angry, but there was an imperceptible trace of melancholy in his smile, “I wish the patient was me.” He always smiled like sunshine, but at this moment, it was as if clouds had passed by. She unconsciously asked, “Is it your relative? Is it serious?” He nodded slightly, and she suddenly felt sympathy for him and couldn’t help asking, “Which department in our hospital? Do you want me to introduce you to a doctor I know to examine them well?”

His voice lowered, “It’s already been diagnosed as early-stage nasopharyngeal cancer.”

Compassion arose in her heart. A relative’s misfortune is more painful than one’s own. That’s a dearly beloved person, watching helplessly without being able to do anything. She knew that feeling of helplessness. She only heard the rain falling outside the umbrella, urgently hitting the ground, raising bubbles one after another. Under the umbrella, there was a momentary silence.

She coughed lightly, awkwardly comforting him, “Don’t be sad, good people are blessed by heaven.”

He perked up very quickly, “Thank you, the specialist also said that everything has gone well after the surgery so far, and there’s hope it won’t recur.” Suddenly he asked, “It’s raining so hard, why didn’t you bring an umbrella?”

She complained bitterly, “Who knows what’s wrong with the weather!” Before she finished speaking, suddenly there was a white flash, her vision blurred, and a thunderclap seemed to be right in front of her, shaking the eardrums in both her ears, making them buzz.

He acted quickly, “Careful!”

She stumbled as he pulled her away. Not far behind them, a large branch crashed down from a tree with a loud noise. The smell of scorching came through the air – the lightning had struck so close if it had been any closer… she dared not think further. Her heart was pounding, and it was a long time before she breathed out, feeling shock and fear. She muttered, “I really shouldn’t talk nonsense anymore, or I’ll be struck by lightning.” He laughed, and she felt his laugh tickle her ear like a gentle breeze. It was then she suddenly realized she was still tightly held in his arms. He smelled good, like aftershave and tobacco – she had never so clearly experienced a man’s scent before. Her heart was racing like a hundred rabbits running wild, and her face reddened as she struggled free. He also became aware and released her embarrassedly.

She felt somewhat awkward for some reason, “I need to go now.”

Without thinking, he handed her his umbrella, “Then take this umbrella, you’ll definitely get sick if you go back soaked like this.”

She became annoyed again, “Hey! Today is my birthday! Can you not jinx me?”

His eyes suddenly brightened, “Today is your birthday? Can I take you for longevity noodles?”

She blurted out, “Of course not!”

He rubbed his nose, “Then I’ll just save five yuan.”

Hmph, brat, always pretending. Why should she help him save money? He was always bestowing small favors, making all her colleagues side with him. He was constantly being generous to buy people’s hearts – why should she help him save money? A thought crossed her mind, and she smiled sweetly, “I want pork strips and egg noodles.”

The noodles with a fried egg added were indeed delicious. She took a deep breath – fragrant! So fragrant! She proudly told him, “I’ve tried all the noodle shops within five li of here, and only this place has the most and most fragrant pork strips, and the noodles are the most substantial!”

It was truly substantial – after a bowl of fried egg and pork strip noodles, her stomach was full and her mood seemed to improve. Even the weather was cooperating; the rain had turned fine as ox hair, falling misty and light, like fog and smoke. The pebbles on the cobblestone street were all wet, and someone was selling orchids by the roadside, filling the entire street with that distant, subtle fragrance. He stopped to buy a bunch for her. She was overjoyed, smiling brightly as she held them, “So fragrant!” She couldn’t help asking, “How much were they?”

He said, “Cheap, just one mao.” She said happily, “How extravagant, don’t buy them next time.” A smile couldn’t help but appear at the corners of his lips, and she couldn’t help glaring at him again, “One mao can buy many things.” He said softly, “If one man can buy your happiness, it’s worth it.” She couldn’t hold back the smile at the corners of her eyes and brows. The street lamps lit up, and there were fine raindrops in his hair, like brilliant scattered stars, his eyes also sparkling like starlight.

She said, “My mother raised my sister and me with great difficulty. I know every cent is earned with blood and sweat, and should be stretched as far as possible. I know every cent has its use. Now my sister is married, and I’ve graduated from nursing school and can earn money. I have one wish – I hope that one day I can save enough money to buy a house, a house with a small yard, where my mother can sunbathe and grow flowers, instead of being squeezed into a damp, small apartment like now, where the balcony only sees three hours of sunlight every day.”

She didn’t know what had come over her, telling him words she had kept in her heart and never told anyone else. But he was so gentle, like the best listener, making her unconsciously open up. She said so many things, talked about jokes from the hospital, about her lovely colleagues, about the trivial matters at home. She spoke animatedly, and he listened with great interest. Finally, she suddenly laughed, “Oh my, Three-Five, I’ve never even known your real name.”

He also found it funny, but formally extended his hand to her, “Miss Fang, pleased to meet you, I am Zhuo Zheng. ‘Zhuo’ as in excellent, ‘Zheng’ as in normal.” She laughingly shook his hand, “Mr. Both-Excellent-and-Normal, pleased to meet you.” After a pause, she asked, “Your surname is Zhuo? That’s a special surname.” A shadow suddenly crossed his face, “Actually, I don’t have the surname Zhuo.” He looked at her frankly, “I grew up in an orphanage. My adoptive mother’s surname is Zhuo. Recently… recently I met my biological parents. My birth mother’s surname is Ren. I think perhaps I should also use the surname Ren. My father… he can never publicly acknowledge my identity.”

A gentle pain sliced through her heart. He had confided in her about his most embarrassing background, and sympathy arose naturally. They were both children without fathers. Only her father had died early, while he was unknown. She blurted out, “Do you hate your father?” He said slowly, “Hate, of course, I hated him, especially for making my mother suffer so much—but when I faced him, I quickly softened. He’s quite pitiful. He’s just a lonely person, and he has lost so much, far more than what he possesses.” He gazed dejectedly at the fragrant orchids in her arms, “Every time I see him wandering alone among those orchids, I feel that the suffering in his heart is deeper.”

She felt that he was like this, with a slight melancholy carrying an indescribable pity, causing a corner of her heart to ache tenderly. She intentionally changed the subject, “Does your family grow many orchids? Is your family in the flower business?”

He was stunned for a moment, then suddenly smiled, “Yes, my family is in the flower business.” Once he smiled like this, it was as if the gloomy clouds had been swept away, and his whole person became bright and radiant again.

They continued walking down the street. Under the yellow glow of the street lamps, the fine drizzle looked like bright glass threads, thousands of transparent, shimmering strands. The fragrance of the orchids filled the air around them. A light breeze brought a touch of cool moisture, but it didn’t feel cold. Without thinking, he softly recited, “Apricot blossom rain almost wets my clothes, willow breeze touches my face without cold.”

She looked around, “There are no apricot blossoms here, nor willows.”

He burst out laughing, “Then it’s ‘Orchid rain almost wets my clothes, utility pole breeze touches my face without cold.'”

She looked at the utility poles along the street and couldn’t help but laugh.

He suddenly said, “Which day are you off? I’ll take you to a place with apricot blossoms and willows.”

She said, “The park has apricot blossoms and willows.”

He stood under the street lamp, the rain all around making his whole person radiant, “It’s different. The park only has a few trees, but there the entire embankment is covered with apricot blossoms and willows. The apricot blossoms are like clouds and rosy clouds, the willows adorned like green jade. Looking up, you can only see the red apricot blossoms and green willow strands covering the sky, just like a fairyland.”

His description moved her heart, and she couldn’t help saying, “How could Wu Chi have such a beautiful place?”

He smiled slightly, “Wu Chi also has its paradise.”

She just realized that not only was he good at bestowing small favors, but he was also articulate. No wonder he had her colleagues wrapped around his finger.

But that day they talked so much, it seemed like they were trying to say a lifetime’s worth of words. She talked about her childhood, when her father passed away, those difficult days, helping her mother with housework at such a young age. Later, when she was older, she went to school while working at a neighbor’s snack shop to earn tuition, and somehow managed to finish nursing school.

He also talked about being bullied by classmates in school as a child, being called a wild child without parents, and how he fiercely fought back. He laughed easily, “I was really brave when I was little. Later I studied hard, earned scholarships, and finally graduated. When I finally met my mother, I didn’t tell her anything about my childhood. Every time she sees me, she feels very sad, always feeling that she has failed me. I can’t make her feel sad again. It’s all in the past.”

Yes, it’s all in the past. Both she and he had suffered a lot in childhood, both materially and spiritually. But she and he were similarly optimistic people. With this lightly brushed-off sentence, it felt as if everything in the past had long been turned over, and now all was clear skies and a bright moon. She exclaimed happily, “The rain has stopped.”

The rain had indeed stopped. The street lamps illuminated the wires on both sides, where raindrops hung and dropped with a pitter-patter. The street lamps cast their shadows, the bright orange light coating everything with a gentle warmth. After all, it was spring, and the night breeze carried moist warmth. New banana leaves sprouted from behind the yard walls at the entrance of the alley. In the street light, such tender green seemed as if it could drip water. She stopped, “I’m here.”

He suddenly felt a bit melancholy, “So soon.”

Yes, so soon. Behind was the familiar entrance to her building. She hid her face in the shadow of the building, “Goodbye.” He also softly said “Goodbye.” She had already walked into the entrance when he suddenly took a few steps after her, “Which day are you off? I’ll take you to see the apricot blossoms.” She said, “I don’t even know which day I’ll be off—the hospital is in a special state these days.” He quickly said, “Then I’ll wait for you tomorrow, anyway I need to visit the patient every day.”

Suddenly her heart overflowed with joy. The usually narrow and stuffy staircase suddenly seemed bright. Each step she took upward was light and quick. Having an enemy suddenly turn into a friend—this feeling wasn’t bad at all.

He did indeed wait for her every day after work. As soon as the shift changeover time came, he would reliably appear with a grin, carrying various snacks—either glass noodles, small cakes, or sweet crispy pastries. This evening he invited her for shrimp dumplings, and she couldn’t help asking, “How much is your monthly salary?” He seemed to have a scalded expression, and she quickly handed him some tea. He glanced at her, but still honestly answered, “My monthly pay is three hundred and seventy-six yuan. Why do you ask?” No wonder, his salary was indeed very generous. She said, “I see you treating people every day, spending nearly seven or eight yuan, so extravagant.”

He had never been managed by anyone before. When his adoptive mother took him in, he was already about ten years old. He was mature for his age, so his adoptive mother always treated him like a little adult, very politely. Later, when he reconnected with his biological parents, the whole world seemed to flip upside down. His biological mother felt an indescribable guilt toward him, and she was as fragile as a dodder flower; in fact, he was the one making plans for her. As for his biological father… he seemed to feel indebted to him as well, so he indulged him with doting affection. Today, her tone, half-reproachful and half-angry, made his heart skip a beat. It was as if someone was lightly brushing him with a feather, both pleasant and uncomfortable, an indescribable ticklish sensation.

He said softly, “Thank you.”

She said, “Thank me for what?” As usual, she glared at him, “Not knowing how to plan your own money, without savings what will you do in the future? I consider you a friend, that’s why I’m reminding you.”

He let out a laugh. The translucent dumpling skin revealed the red shrimp and green vegetables inside. He dipped them in vinegar as he ate, but in his mouth, he could only taste the sweet fragrance of the shrimp. She considered him a friend… he would strive to take one step further.

The next day was bustling with activity. There were many patients, and over the past two days, several colleagues had been transferred to the special ward, making the staff shortage even more acute. The surgery lasted until four in the afternoon before it was finished, and her stomach had been growling with hunger for a long time. After handing over her shift, she saw small cakes in the break room and her eyes nearly popped with delight. Xiao Zhou was quick to speak, “Three-Five bought them. He waited for you all afternoon. Said he suddenly received orders to return to his unit tonight, unfortunately, he couldn’t wait for you.”

“Ah, it wasn’t meant to be. But as long as there’s cake to eat, seeing his handsome face doesn’t matter much. Although handsome boys are pleasing to the eye, and talking with him is very engaging, the Chevrolet prince is still more tempting.” While eagerly eating cake, she endlessly regretted the prince she had met that day. If Three-Five hadn’t jumped out to interfere, she might have had a romantic beginning with the prince.

Xiao Zhou exclaimed, “When did you start finding him engaging?”

She brushed the cake crumbs from her hands, “Just these past few days. After getting to know him, I found he’s quite interesting, too bad he’s not the Chevrolet prince.” At the mention of the Chevrolet prince, Xiao Zhou’s eyes also lit up as she eagerly told her, “This morning I walked past the garden in front of the special ward and saw two or three young men talking in the corridor in the distance. They were all talented and handsome. Oh my, they must be either rich or noble, so-called scions of distinguished families, even more outstanding than movie stars.”

She finished another small cake, unimpressed, and advised Xiao Zhou in the tone of a seasoned romantic, “If you want to meet them, it’s simple. Carry a medicine tray, walk by, and accidentally drop it with a crash. He’ll certainly help you pick it up—isn’t that the typical movie scene?”

Xiao Zhou couldn’t resist giving her another knock on the head, “Hopeless romantic! That’s the special ward, you know. It’s so secure that not even a fly can get in. How could you get close to a prince with a medicine tray? Unless you transform into a butterfly and fly in.” She sighed, her face full of longing, “If only I could be transferred to the special ward.”

She struggled to say two words through the choking cake, “Dream on!”

Dream on! It was like a dream!

Hua Yue pinched her thigh hard, inhaling sharply from the pain. It wasn’t a dream, really not a dream. The director had just announced her transfer to the special ward. Heavens! The special ward. Her heart felt like it had a hundred rabbits—no, five hundred rabbits—jumping wildly inside.

Although it was only the most peripheral work, on her first day on duty, she saw the Chevrolet Prince. He came toward her from the corridor—it was him, truly him… She recognized that handsome face at a glance. He seemed to recognize her too, nodding slightly with a smile. Heavens… let her faint for a moment… Did he remember her? A prince with such a remarkable memory.

Indeed, that rich, deep voice sounded again, “Miss, were you alright that day?”

She smiled so broadly her eyes nearly became lines, “Fine, fine.” She finally successfully displayed her pair of adorable dimples to him. He politely extended his hand, “I haven’t introduced myself. My surname is Mu, Mu Shiyang. Secretary at the First Office of the Shuangqiao Residence.” How happy, how happy… to know the Chevrolet prince’s name, to know his identity, and to shake his hand… She smiled sweetly and replied, “My surname is Fang, Fang Hua Yue, a nurse from the Hematology Department of Jiangshan General Hospital, just transferred to the special ward.”

The Chevrolet prince’s smile was truly enchanting. His next words nearly made her faint with happiness. He politely asked, “May I know when Miss Fang gets off work? Would I have the honor of inviting Miss Fang for coffee?”

The honor! Such an honor!

Today was truly a day of great fortune—first being transferred to the special ward, then coincidentally meeting the Chevrolet prince, and finally being invited by him for coffee. After turning twenty, happiness came in waves, truly blissful, so blissful she could drown in it.

The only imperfection was that the Chevrolet prince didn’t come to the appointment alone. He brought two companions. A full two-kilowatt bulb shining on them—what was he thinking? Mu Shiyang introduced them: one named Hou Mingyou, and one named Li Hannian. Both were also distinguished in bearing, almost on par with the Chevrolet Prince. Considering they were three princes, she wouldn’t complain.

But these three princes were a bit strange. All three looked at her with great interest, their gazes carrying a measure of curiosity and scrutiny. Fortunately, they were all alert people, and as soon as they noticed her awareness, they immediately concealed it. Mu Shiyang politely recommended the restaurant’s signature dessert, cherry pudding.

It was indeed delicious—fragrant, sweet, refreshing, and smooth. She ate with great relish. Then Hou Mingyou recommended raspberry ice cream, and Li Hannian suggested Portuguese egg tarts. She began to feel the urge to roll her eyes. What did they take her for, a pig? Mu Shiyang, a perceptive person, immediately explained with a smile, “Sorry, we all think you eat with such enjoyment that it gives us an appetite to dine with you.”

What did these young masters take her for, a professional eating companion? But she still had to respond, “Actually, a healthy appetite is most important. Food is the primary need of people, almost all human energy comes from food. Look at you three big men, your appetites aren’t as good as mine.”

Hou Mingyou smiled and replied, “We had afternoon tea with the master, so we’re not hungry yet.”

If they weren’t hungry, why invite her to such an expensive Western restaurant? Wait, what did he just say? Had afternoon tea with the master… She almost forgot that these three young masters were all from distinguished families, holding prominent positions. She sighed, “I imagine that being with such important figures, even the most delicious food would taste like chewing wax.”

But the advantage of working in the special ward was that not only could she see elegant and distinguished young men, but she could also see beauties—beauties!

It truly was a beauty, only seventeen or eighteen years old, but with bright eyes and white teeth, graceful and captivating. Although she wore only the simplest short qipao, it looked especially good on her. Watching her look around in the courtyard, one felt her bright eyes were in constant motion. She couldn’t help asking, “Miss, is there anything I can help you with?”

Beauties are just like this—smiling before speaking, already making people feel extraordinarily friendly. “Ah, thank you, I’ve already seen my friend.” She turned her head, and Mu Shiyang came from the end of the corridor. The beautiful girl smiled brilliantly, affectionately holding Mu Shiyang’s arm. Mu Shiyang said, “I thought you wouldn’t come today.” The beautiful girl said, “Mother was worried and insisted I come.” When they looked at each other, even their gazes were inseparable.

Standing together, they were truly like immortals. What they call a divine couple must be just like this. She sighed inwardly—it was over, the Chevrolet prince was already taken, and her romantic dream had once again come to nothing.

Lowering her head to arrange the cotton in the medicine tray, Mu Shiyang happened to notice her, “Miss Fang.” She raised her head, smiling to show her adorable dimples. Although the Chevrolet prince was no longer an option, such a beautiful girl was still worth the encounter, a glorious defeat. Mu Shiyang introduced them, “This is Miss Murong. This is Miss Fang Hua Yue.”

This surname made her gasp. However, Miss Murong was all smiles, “Ah, Sister Fang, hello.” Unexpectedly, this young lady showed no arrogance or haughtiness, immediately calling her “sister.” But why was this young lady examining her so closely, smiling like a kitten that had caught a mouse? She responded properly, “Young miss.” Miss Murong smiled and said, “Everyone at home calls me Pan’er. Sister Fang can also call me Pan’er.”

This young lady was being very friendly with her, yet why did she feel that beneath this friendliness was a hint of conspiracy?

In any case, these noble families were all a bit peculiar. Though the special ward had strict rules and complex matters, the work was quite relaxed. Each shift was only four hours a day. This day, just after handing over her shift, she encountered a familiar figure in the corridor.

She blurted out, “Zhuo Zheng!”

He turned around, seeming startled. Seeing it was her, he seemed even more startled, “Why are you here?”

She also found it strange, “Why are you here?”

He was stunned for a moment before saying, “I came with my superior.”

She asked, “Are you about to go back? I’ve been transferred to the special ward.”

He slapped his forehead, saying, “Wait, you said you’ve been transferred to the special ward. When were you transferred?”

He looked so strange as if he was very unwilling to see her here. Hmph, she wasn’t eager to see this brat either. What a pest, even after being transferred to the special ward, she could still see him. She rolled her eyes at him again, “I was transferred a while ago, the day you returned to your unit.”

He was stunned again, asking, “Are you off duty? I have something to discuss with you.” She laughed, “You look so serious, and when you’re serious, I find it funny.” As a result, he also smiled, leading her to a restroom. It was strange, once they were alone, she felt something odd. Perhaps it was because he was staring at her. She coughed, “Why are you staring at me?” His answer was frank, “Because I think you’re very pretty.” Even with her thick skin, she couldn’t help blushing. He was something, actually able to make her blush. He asked, “While I was gone, did anyone give you trouble?”

There wasn’t anyone making trouble, but what kind of expression was that, looking at her so tenderly?

The atmosphere was a bit strange. Why was he so close to her, so close that her heart rate increased, her pulse quickened, and her breathing became rapid? She suddenly jumped up from her chair, bumping right into his chin. She covered her forehead, “That hurts!” How unlucky, and even more unlucky, the inner door suddenly opened and someone came in.

It was Miss Murong. As soon as she saw Zhuo Zheng, she opened her arms to embrace him, looking elated, “You’ve finally come back. If you hadn’t come back, I was going to call you.” Her affection was evident. Zhuo Zheng put his arm around her waist, his face full of indulgence, “With so many people surrounding you, what do you need me back for?”

Miss Murong pouted, “What can they do? You know very well.”

What was going on with this Miss Murong? A few days ago, she was intimate with Mu Shiyang, and today, she was embracing Zhuo Zheng. She didn’t care about Mu Shiyang anymore, nor could she. She had always valued friendship over romance—Mu Shiyang was romance, which could be disregarded, but Zhuo Zheng was a friend, and she couldn’t stand by and watch him be deceived.

But Miss Murong pulled Zhuo Zheng by the hand, “Father has asked several times, he’s calling for you to go in.”

Zhuo Zheng looked at her, seeming about to speak but stopping. Miss Murong gave him a gentle push, “Go quickly, I’ll look after Sister Fang, no one will eat her.”

Zhuo Zheng said, “Alright then.” Turning to her, he said softly, “I’ll go see the master first, then I’ll explain to you later.”

Explain? What did he need to explain? For some reason, her heart felt a bit sour. It must be because she resented this young lady for not only taking away the Chevrolet prince but also not knowing how to cherish him, actually having two relationships at once. Truly an angelic face with a devilish heart.

The angelic face was all smiles: “Sister Fang, may I invite you for tea?”

“I need to hurry to the market to buy groceries.”

But the angel looked longingly, “I think buying groceries must be extremely interesting.”

Yes, how could this young lady, whose delicate fingers had never touched dishwater, know the pleasure of haggling over every penny? At the mention of this topic, she became animated, “Let me tell you, grocery shopping is a profound art. You must assess the quality of the vegetables, and haggling is the most crucial part. First, you must maintain a poker face, second, you must pay on the spot, third, you must advance step by step…” Before she could finish explaining her bargaining strategy, a nurse suddenly knocked and entered, “Young miss, your phone call.”

The angel reluctantly went to answer the phone, still unwilling to leave, “Sister Fang, you go ahead and buy groceries then. Another time you can continue telling me the secrets of haggling.”

This young lady was quite interesting. She walked out of the restroom and had just crossed the courtyard when she suddenly heard a steady, powerful voice, “Miss Fang, please wait.”

It was an elderly man, somewhat familiar-looking. His gaze was like lightning, sweeping over her, causing her to shiver involuntarily. The elderly man very politely said, “My surname is Lei. I wonder if I might ask Miss Fang to step aside, as I have some things I’d like to discuss.”

Judging by his manner, this was no small matter. She, Fang Hua Yue, had never done anything to trouble her conscience—what was there to fear? So she calmly followed him through the winding corridors to a place she had never been before. It appeared to be an extremely large suite. All the windows were hung with luxurious velvet floor-length curtains. The carpet was so thick that stepping on it caused one’s foot to sink in more than an inch, making people walk without a sound. Everywhere were fresh flowers and fruit. Behind the sofa was an eighteen-panel rosewood ivory-carved screen. The yellowish light slanted across, illuminating the delicate openwork patterns on the screen. Such a luxurious place she had only seen in movie sets—it was hard to imagine this was still within the hospital.

The elderly man surnamed Lei sat down on the sofa and said calmly, “Please sit, Miss Fang.”

She finally remembered who he was. She finally knew why this person looked familiar—it turned out he was Lei Shaogong. No wonder he had such a presence. But judging by his demeanor, his intentions didn’t seem kind; surely nothing good would come of this. Indeed, as soon as he spoke, he said, “Miss Fang, I’m very sorry, but I’m afraid we must ask you to leave Zhuo Zheng.”

Leave Zhuo Zheng? She found it laughable—what kind of statement was this? But the most common line from romantic movies had been delivered, and she could guess eight or nine-tenths of what would follow. Sure enough, Lei Shaogong said, “Zhuo Zheng has a bright future ahead of him. Miss Fang, I believe your relationship with him is unsuitable.” How disappointing! Why only these clichéd lines? Couldn’t he come up with something more original? Why was he asking her to leave Zhuo Zheng when they were only friends? Moreover, how could Zhuo Zheng alarm such an important figure to speak on his behalf?

Aha! She understood. The relationship between Zhuo Zheng and Miss Murong seemed to be publicly acknowledged. Judging from the situation earlier, Mr. Murong also appeared quite satisfied with this prospective son-in-law. That’s why he had sent this important figure to break up the lovebirds—although she and Zhuo Zheng didn’t quite qualify as lovebirds. But she couldn’t stand their bullying tactics. That Miss Murong was two-timing, yet still had the nerve to send someone to order her to “leave Zhuo Zheng.” Hmph! As if!

She calmly replied, “Mr. Lei, I think your request is impossible for me to fulfill. Why don’t you ask Zhuo Zheng instead, and see if he’s willing to leave me?” Tsk, although they were just friends, couldn’t stand by and watch him fall into the disaster of a beautiful but treacherous woman without doing anything. Better to throw out these words first—at least let them know that Miss Murong couldn’t have her feet firmly planted in both boats.

But Mr. Lei remained completely composed, “Miss Fang, I believe you certainly know that we’re not here to request of you.”

She leaned forward slightly, carefully examining this intimidating political figure. With composure and steadiness, she said, “Minister Lei, I also don’t intend to accept any threats from you.”

A strange look flashed in his eyes, “Young lady, you’re quite brave. Name your price.”

Yes! How could they miss this most, most, most important scene of offering a check? It was an indispensable part of novels and movies. Watching him take out his checkbook, she had the urge to burst out laughing. How amusing—she never thought she would have such an opportunity. She took the lightweight piece of paper and carefully examined the amount on it—five hundred thousand. His generosity was indeed impressive. She said deliberately, one word at a time, “Five hundred thousand is not a large sum for you, nor is it for me! It’s too cheap to buy your peace of mind; it’s also too cheap to buy my love! So, save it!” She gently blew on the check, and it floated diagonally onto the carpet.

Seeing that Lei Shaogong, though still composed, had a trace of undisguised astonishment in his eyes, she couldn’t help feeling triumphant. Ever since watching “Autumn Song,” she had memorized these lines perfectly. She never thought there would be a day when they would come in handy. He slowly said, “Miss Fang, according to our investigation, you are very fond of money.”

The subtext was calling her money-worshipping, and that wasn’t wrong—she did worship money. But for someone with her style, even money-worship had to be done in a distinctive way. She looked at him frankly, “Yes, I do love money like life itself. But I won’t sell my self-respect, my feelings, or my character for money.”

Lei Shaogong smiled, “Don’t think you can play the long game. You should know that if Zhuo Zheng insists, he might lose everything he has now. By then, you’ll still end up with nothing.”

Of course, not becoming Mr. Murong’s son-in-law would be a loss that could only be described as “devastating.” She smiled slyly, “Minister Lei, whether Zhuo Zheng insists or not, please go ask him. If he insists on marrying Miss Murong, that’s his choice. If he gives up being Mr. Murong’s son-in-law for me, that’s also his choice. I don’t think you can control his decision.”

Why did Minister Lei’s expression suddenly look so strange? He abruptly asked, “He wants to marry Miss Murong?”

“Yes, isn’t that why you brought me here to threaten and entice me?”

The expression on his face could perhaps be described as torn between laughter and tears, but it did look strange. Never mind, she had said everything she needed to say. After thinking for a moment, she added one more strong statement, “As for your young miss, teach her how to care for others first. Don’t rely on power to bully people and two-time. Although Zhuo Zheng’s monthly salary is only three hundred and seventy-six yuan, he, like the successful young Mr. Mu Shiyang, is a dignified man. Her behavior is an insult to both of them.”

The expression on his face became even more interesting: “How do you know how much Zhuo Zheng’s monthly salary is?”

She lifted her face, “He told me.”

His face was hidden in the shadow of the curtain, his expression unknown, though it seemed odd from what she could glimpse. He said, “Three hundred and seventy-six yuan, that’s quite substantial.”

“Yes, by general salary standards, it’s not bad. But I see him spending extravagantly every day, without any calculation, probably not saving a penny all year. He’s born to be a prince consort—after all, the Murong family is wealthy. If he marries the young miss, he won’t have to worry about supporting a family.”

She suddenly heard what seemed like a faint laugh, seemingly coming from behind the screen. She couldn’t help turning her head—was there someone behind the screen? But Lei Shaogong coughed once and said, “Miss Fang, I must admit…” Before he could finish, the door was suddenly pushed open forcefully. It was Zhuo Zheng, his face furious, “Father…”

She stared at him in astonishment. What was wrong with him? He looked like a lion whose fur had been ruffled. Wait, what did he just call out? She instinctively turned to look at Lei Shaogong on the sofa. He rose slowly and said calmly, “What’s the matter, little Zhuo?”

Her mind was in chaos, but Zhuo Zheng seemed to have quickly composed himself, “I’m sorry, Uncle Lei.” But his voice still carried suppressed anger, “Please don’t interfere with my relationship with her. No one can stop me from loving her.”

She was stunned! Stunned! He said he loved her, he said he loved her… Let her faint for a moment, then get up right away. How moving, this was the first time she had heard such a direct confession, her vanity was greatly satisfied. Yes, satisfied. She never thought he would be so determined, actually not interested in being a prince consort. Who would have thought that this guy, who was always laughing and joking, would turn out to be so responsible and manly when it came down to it? Before she could praise him, he had already taken her hand and politely said, “Uncle Lei, Miss Fang, and I have matters to attend to, please excuse us.”

Wow! So handsome! A rescue mission! It was truly worth her efforts to defend him. She didn’t expect that when he put on a serious face, he could be so imposing. Although this term was supposedly derogatory, his imposing appearance was truly pleasing to the eye! His whole body seemed to emit a chilling aura, even more dignified than the Chevrolet prince, making one instinctively look up to him.

After walking quite far, he suddenly stopped and asked her, “What did they do to you?”

She smiled sweetly, “What could they do? Threats and enticements, the usual routine.” Standing on tiptoe, she patted his shoulder, “Don’t worry, I’ve already flawlessly defended you. They can’t do anything to us.”

The last sentence caused a strange light to appear in his eyes. He smiled, that smile again like sunshine, “Right, they can’t do anything to us.”

Her cheeks began to burn as she recalled what he had just said—he said he loved her! He took her hand and walked outside, “I’ll take you to see the apricot blossoms.”

She couldn’t immediately find her bearings. She had experienced too many complex things in this short time; she needed to think it through. “I need to buy groceries; it’s getting dark.”

He suddenly became angry and pulled her along, “Today you must come with me to see the apricot blossoms.”

She was about to object when she suddenly saw Miss Murong and Mu Shiyang arm in arm standing in the courtyard. Miss Murong even made a face at them.

Oh my, so he was reacting to being hurt—no wonder he was acting so strangely. But a short pain is better than a long one; it was good for him to see this scene early, allowing him to find his way back from going astray. Perhaps he suddenly said he loved her because he was hurt, although this greatly damaged her self-esteem. But for now, it was better to consider his self-esteem first. After all, men care a lot about face. She obediently followed him outside, comforting him as they walked, “Actually, young Master Mu comes from a distinguished family and is a good match for Miss Murong. They are the most suitable couple.”

He couldn’t help sighing, “Yes, only Mu Shiyang can tolerate her temper.”

She took the opportunity to continue comforting him, “There are beautiful women everywhere. Although Miss Murong is beautiful, what’s valuable is finding a kindred spirit. Mutual affection and spiritual connection are most important.”

He turned back to look at her, why did his gaze make her feel a bit hot? Anyway, she was also a bit off today, constantly feeling flushed and nervous. Only after getting into the car did she think to ask, “How do you have a car?”

He said, “It’s a car my father had someone assign to me.”

She suddenly remembered, “Ah! I forgot that Minister Lei is your father.” She hadn’t expected that he was the illegitimate son of a political figure—no wonder he said his identity could never come to light. This was troublesome; she had no intention of getting involved with such an important person.

He was stunned for a moment, then burst out laughing, “Who said Minister Lei is my father?” She said justifiably, “You did, just now when you rushed in, you called out ‘Father.'” He groaned, had she misheard? It shouldn’t have been so… He spoke incoherently, “Just now I thought it was my father talking to you… no… my father was probably also present.” His expression was very strange, but she was also confused. The afternoon sun was warm, shining on the street where cars flowed like water and horses like dragons. His hand still tightly held hers, comfortingly patting the back of her hand, “It’s all over now. From now on, with me here, you don’t need to fear anything.” She hadn’t felt afraid, but his hand was warm, and she didn’t want to pull away. He turned back to look at her and smiled again, nearly making her lose focus. She must have been frightened by that important person today, making her mind wander.

Wu Chi truly did have a paradise.

She held her breath. The spring water was gradually rising to the corners of the embankment. The soft grass extended its green along the winding embankment. The embankment was covered with apricot blossoms and weeping willows. There were dozens, perhaps hundreds, of apricot trees in full bloom, like clouds and rosy mist. Each branch and cluster of flowers was like a gathering of brocade, like cut velvet. Thousands upon thousands of willow branches, their tender green leaves brushing against people. The lower hanging willows swept across the water’s surface, creating ripples in the blue water. In the slanting sunlight, everything was dreamlike and picturesque. Entranced by this beautiful scenery, she looked at the familiar mountain outline in the distance and murmured, “Is this inside Qiyu Mountain Park?” He smiled, “It’s not far from Qiyu Mountain Park.” She looked around—on all sides were weeping willows and apricot blossoms, with red flowers like brocade and green willows hanging down, covering the sky. Looking up, there was an endless view of flowers and trees. She tried to determine their location, “This must still be inside Qiyu Mountain Park, though I’ve never been to this part before.”

He made a soft “shh” sound and whispered, “You’re so clever. We slipped in through a small door without buying tickets. Don’t let anyone catch us.” She had seen him greet the guard at the gate, and she rolled her eyes at him. Liar! He must know the gatekeeper, which is why he could so brazenly slip into the park through the side entrance. He reached out and broke off a willow branch, stripped away the leaves, cut it short to make a willow whistle, and began to blow it softly. She volunteered enthusiastically to make one too. He patiently taught her, hands guiding hers, “Pull out the stem from inside, that’s it.” The willow whistle tasted slightly bitter in the mouth, but when blown forcefully, the sound was bright and pleasant. She happily blew along with him, the clear and melodious whistle sounded like two joyful little birds, calling endlessly among the willow shade and scattered shadows of apricot blossoms.

Just as they were enjoying themselves, they suddenly heard a distant sound like soft thunder. She stopped blowing, and so did he. He said, “It’s the sound of hooves.” She couldn’t help but glare at him again, “Nonsense, this isn’t a zoo, how could there be horses…” Before she could finish, they saw a rider parting flowers and brushing willows coming toward them. The horse wasn’t running fast, but it touched the apricot blossoms on both sides of the path, causing petals to fall like rain. The rider wore black riding clothes that accentuated a graceful figure. A rouge-colored silk scarf around the neck fluttered in the wind. As they came closer, the rider reined in the horse. Looking up, she saw the rider was an extremely beautiful woman. This place was already as beautiful as paradise, but this woman was so beautiful she didn’t seem like an ordinary person—it was impossible to tell her age. The woman also examined her carefully, then suddenly gave Zhuo Zheng a brilliant smile, dismounted, and affectionately embraced him, “How rare, you’ve brought a guest.”

She couldn’t help feeling a twinge of jealousy, though heaven knows what she was jealous of. But facing such a beautiful woman, any woman would be jealous. Heaven had favored her, giving her such exquisite beauty—any man would have his heart stirred by her. But why did she feel this woman looked so familiar?

Zhuo Zheng said, “Mom, this is Fang Hua Yue.”

This was like a thunderbolt. She stared at the beautiful woman before her, speechless. The woman had already extended her hand to her, “Miss Fang, hello. My son has always been naughty; I hope he hasn’t made you laugh at him.”

It was his—mother!

On the way back, she remained silent. He watched her with some unease. Finally, he said, “I’m sorry, I was too hasty. I just wanted to protect you… so I took you to meet my mother, hoping they would understand how important you are to me.”

She glared at him fiercely, “So spineless, I’m not afraid, what are you afraid of?”

He looked both angry and amused, “Of course, you’re not afraid, you even dared to confront Minister Lei—” His voice suddenly lowered, “You don’t know, I was worried about you. I know they wouldn’t approve of our relationship.”

A sweet feeling rose in her heart; this feeling was truly wonderful. She couldn’t help saying, “Let me be honest with you, if Minister Lei had filled in five million instead of five hundred thousand, I might have been tempted.”

He was stunned for a moment, then gritted his teeth, “Fang Hua Yue!”

She lightly patted his face, “Don’t be angry, being angry doesn’t look handsome. Just think about it, five million! We couldn’t earn that in a lifetime.” He looked so cute when angry, making her want to tease him more, “Your worth is five million! Any movie star would be put to shame.”

He was truly angry with her, but then he had a change of heart and smiled broadly, “Then let me also be honest about something.”

Her eyes darted around, looking at him, “Could it be that you love Miss Murong, but she doesn’t want you anymore?”

His smile was as gentle as the spring night outside the car window, “How could I love Pan’er? She’s my sister.”

She made a sound of acknowledgment, “She’s your sister.” Suddenly it hit her, “She’s your sister?! Then… you… your father is…” She gasped, “Where exactly did you take me just now?”

He answered slowly, “Duanshan Residence.”

Oh no! He was actually… how could he be the son of Murong Qingyi… Could she hide in the Sahara Desert and never come back?