Six, Night Woman

At 11:00 AM, Zhu Tong dialed Qin Miao's mobile phone, but no one answered. Five minutes later, a text message came through: Dr. Li? We are currently in class and will call you once the class is over.

Then I will not be polite, Li Xiang, this name is quite good, just like you.

Zhu Tong walked over and sat down opposite her: "By yourself?"

The atmosphere relaxed; it is impossible for such a beautiful nurse to have no admirers around her. Women possess an innate ability to handle such situations.

I didn't see it, but there are a few men in the neighborhood who are interested in her; however, they haven't had the chance to approach her. As soon as she goes out, she takes a taxi... By the way, there were two days last month when she came back driving a car. It was a blue Polo, and some people said she was someone else's mistress. Later, that car disappeared

Last night, before leaving, Su Juan invited Zhu Tong to have lunch at her place. Unexpectedly, Huang Hai called early in the morning; seizing this opportunity, Zhu Tong mentioned that he would be visiting a friend at noon and asked Huang Hai to inform Su Juan and Ye Er in advance, promising to arrive at Su Juan's house before sunset

Through the large floor-to-ceiling windows, one can see the main building of the Ocean Hospital, which serves as the teaching hospital for this medical school; Zhu Tong found it strange that Qin Miao and the others were not interning at their own institution but had gone to Beijing instead

Dining at a Western restaurant has its advantages; as long as there are no high expectations, two people do not need to spend much. At the time of payment, Qin Miao took the initiative to cover the bill. Zhu Tong modestly insisted a little, and the young nurse blushed as she pushed the waiter away.

This minor injury is nothing; let us not discuss it. Miss Qin, if you are willing, you may call me by my name, Li Xiang. I am a person with great ideals

In contrast to officials and businessmen, the social interactions of school principals and hospital directors are relatively simple. They mostly belong to the intellectual class, are concerned about their reputation, fear trouble, and have limited capacity for stress, making them more likely to compromise in the face of threats. Moreover, the corrupt officials that Zhu Tong has encountered are all deeply connected with organized crime or underworld factions, some of whom are even more unscrupulous than common thugs, making it extremely dangerous to engage in business with them

Ten years ago today, right where you and I are standing, a man just like you proposed to me; he said he would accompany me for a lifetime, no matter what happened, he would never leave me. Ten years later today, he is drinking in the distant sunlight, while I am walking with a stranger on the Bund at midnight

Zhu Tong noticed her hesitation and respectfully hailed a taxi for her; however, he did not expect that the mysterious woman would ultimately slip him two banknotes, one of which was tucked inside a deep blue business card. Was it a hint or a tease? Perhaps even the enigmatic woman herself was unsure.

In the years that Zhu Tong has been engaged in "business," his focus has always been on schools and hospitals; this was a goal he established after encountering several setbacks. Corruption and bribery occur daily across China, and in Zhu Tong's view, schools and hospitals have developed the fastest in recent years, offering even greater opportunities for profit.

Zhu Tong replied with an OK, opened his laptop to play a crossword game, and unexpectedly, a series of text messages from Qin Miao kept coming in relentlessly.

Zhu Tong smiled and nodded, boldly sizing up the woman in front of her, yet unable to discern her age; even after having a few drinks, a hint of faint sorrow still shone through her bright eyes. Her long hair was styled up, her beautiful face lightly adorned with makeup, and her slender figure with fair skin indicated a life of comfort. Her full bosom rested against her arms, exuding a relaxed demeanor and the unique charm characteristic of a young married woman.

He cursed under his breath, hoping not to be disturbed at this moment. He was practicing the hemp health cultivation technique that his master had been practicing since childhood, and despite being busy in recent years, he had not stopped.

"You see, now it is a person." Under the soft glow of the water candle's flicker, the gaze is casual and drifting, speaking standard Mandarin without any detectable regional accent, the tone somewhat rigid, suggesting that this person is not a local.

What else is there? After Zhu Tong finished speaking, he asked again: "Upon careful consideration, for instance, does she interact with others in the community?"

Fortunately, this bar is a quiet one. Men come primarily to observe women, who always present themselves with an air of noble indifference. The commotion caused by the young security guard quickly subsides in the muted sound of singing

Hehehe. "Then what about you? Why has a woman come to this place? If you want to showcase feminine charm, you could simply take a stroll by the Huangpu River."

Zhu Tong tightened his arms, feeling the softness of the night woman. His lips brushed against her ear: "How long has it been since you last kissed?"

In fact, it would be the same to ask these questions over the phone. The reason Tong chose to ask in person is twofold: first, this is a critical moment, and there must be no mistakes; second, it is to observe Yang Hui in person, as those who lie always reveal inconsistencies.

May the young elephant have a capable boyfriend who accompanies Qin Miao by her side, allowing her to navigate the ocean of business, while his thoughts remain focused on the person behind him

As Tong Gang was about to say something, the woman approached and silenced him with her lips, whispering, "No one knows what will happen tomorrow. If fate allows us to meet again, we will be very good friends"

The Yellow Sea laughs heartily over there, repeatedly praising Dr. Li for his integrity, a model of remaining untainted despite being surrounded by filth. The hotel where Zhu Tong resides is rather chaotic, with nightingales flitting about at night, and the phone is incessantly noisy.

During last year's Spring Festival, Zhu Tong and Yan Zi were in Dalian, where a national medical conference was being held. Originally, Zhu Tong's goal was to become the head of a department at a hospital, but while eavesdropping on a phone call in a listening room, Wang Juefei's exorbitant demands made Zhu Tong feel there was more profit to be gained.

The young man is from the countryside of Anhui, named Yang Hui. He appears rough but is a graduate of a third-tier university. After spending two years in Shanghai mingling with books, Yang Hui realized that his degree was worthless here; however, his strong physique still had its merits. Ultimately, he became a security guard in the Haidu Community where Qingmei resides.

Early the next morning, Zhu Tong had just gotten up and was sitting on the carpet doing morning exercises when his phone rang

Yang Hui spoke about some trivial matters, and Zhu Tong felt that there were really no more questions. He took out a stack of money to send him on his way

On duty, I received a call from the boss and hurried over. It was not easy to find someone to cover for me; I was worried you would be waiting, but I didn't expect to change my clothes. The young man quickly finished the beer and explained in a simple manner.

As soon as Zhu Tong exited the Western restaurant, he noticed someone observing him from a distance. Initially, he thought it was due to Qin Miao, but upon arriving in the city, he realized that this was an experienced individual

The call was made by Huang Hai, who inquired about how Zhu Tong spent the previous night and whether the wound still hurt. Finally, with concern, he asked, "Why can't I reach the phone in your room?"

At night, the woman stopped struggling, leaning against his chest and gasping for breath; Zhu Tong could see her fair and tender nape, with a few strands of disheveled hair fluttering in the wind

Who is it? Why? Zhu Tong has been contemplating various possibilities. After circling around Nanjing Road with Qin Miao, Zhu Tong finally confirmed the identity of the opponent: the flying bandit from the train.

Security personnel are also human; I see nothing inappropriate about this. He is a relative of a friend, and it is not easy for him to come to Shanghai. It is perfectly fine to meet and exchange a few words.

Yang Hui always believed that Zhu Tong was a relative of Qingmei, a misconception deliberately created by Zhu Tong. For several months, there was a weekly phone call, and the work was quite solid, accurately reporting Qingmei's comings and goings as well as the people she interacted with to the boss.

May the black tea beside Tong be as his thoughts, just as it is about to cool down, a robust young man sits across from him

As they walked into Nanjing Road, Qin Miao's eyes sparkled with excitement. The bustling crowd surged in from all directions, and the two of them drew closer together, with Qin Miao naturally linking her arm through Zhu Tong's.

Selina is the only name on the business card, just like her character, gentle and graceful, yet unpredictable and elusive. The card bears a long-distance number; following this phone number will surely not lead to this woman of the night. Perhaps the only thing of value is that email address.

At that time, Zhu Tong did not respond; the little trickster had already analyzed this matter.

A bar is a place that can tolerate wandering thoughts, filled with various virtual atmospheres. A drink and a song create a unique space within the steel forest, allowing the heart to gradually become intoxicated in the ambiance of the night, with alcohol, lights, the opposite sex, music, and a sense of ambiguity.

Yanzi asked several times: The ones who engage in the most corruption and bribery are still the executives of state-owned enterprises and government officials. Why not conduct some business with them?

"Do I really look like a duck?" Zhu Tong said mockingly, holding two hundred-yuan bills in his hand, as the taxi had just taken the night woman away; she declined Zhu Tong's invitation

Zhu Tong extended his hand to pull her into his embrace, feeling her softness, and whispered: "Nothing is eternal; that is a beautiful hope. At this moment, I only want one thing: to hold you. A charming lady like you should know that all men are liars"

What a perplexing woman, is her worth merely represented by two counterfeit hundred yuan bills

"Doctor Li, how is your injury? Have you taken the anti-inflammatory medication?" Qin Miao looked up at Zhu Tong with a burning gaze, playfully smiling as she pointed to the corner of his eye and asked.

I am the most authentic liar, and I have never spoken the truth

In the corner, a red candle flickers, illuminating a solitary woman of the night; just moments ago, Zhu Tong had seen a companion by her side, but now she is alone, swirling a glass of red wine in her fingers, lost in thought

Zhu Tong is not a romantic person, especially at this moment, as he gazes at the graceful silhouette of the woman in the night, his desires are surprisingly diminished by her tranquility. Across the street, there is the same brilliance and splendor of lights; time, at this moment, has lost its weight.

The woman took a sip of wine, a patch of moisture appearing on her red lips, and with a slight smile said, "Does Mr. Li's circle of friends also include the security guard?"

At twelve thirty, Zhu Tong sat in a quiet Western restaurant outside the Ocean Medical College, which was the location designated by Qin Miao

"You don't even know my name? Mr. Liar." The woman of the night gently broke free; "Thank you for accompanying me here to reminisce so late. Each person is a riddle to others; the key lies in your hands, it just depends on whether you want to know the answer."

I mentioned that you should change into a different outfit when you come here. Zhu Tong called over the waiter to open a bottle of beer for the young man, gently admonishing him to take off his outer coat

Zhu Tong then had the servant bring over a few sticks, placing them in front of him, and only after his breathing had stabilized did he begin to ask: "How was this segment, cousin? Tell me everything you observed."

As for merchants, one must consider the background. A respectable merchant has no interest in associating with them; those problematic merchants are often colluding with corrupt officials, and some have such a terrifying background that Zhu Tong questions whether he has yet reached that level of cultivation, nor can he handle sudden changes. For now, he is merely in the stage of observation, understanding, and learning, and has not yet begun to engage in their "business".

Qin Miao's face turned even redder; the reason Zhu Tong did not insist on keeping the night woman last night was precisely because he thought of Qin Miao's shyness

As he spoke, he lifted her chin with his right hand and kissed her enticingly shimmering red lips. Almost simultaneously, his right hand moved down the skin of her neck, delving deeper, grasping a full and tender softness.

It is similar to before; that old man comes once every three days and leaves only at dawn. Usually, she rarely goes out, but sometimes a few beautiful women come to see him. Every weekend, she goes out and returns home very late. However, tonight is a bit strange; she went out in the afternoon and came back around eleven and a half, looking very happy. Boss, her friends are quite excessive; every time they come, they make a scene until very late, and the neighbors have approached us several times; it is not out of consideration for you... However, tonight is a bit strange; she went out in the afternoon and came back around eleven and a half, looking very happy. Boss, her friends are quite excessive; every time they come, they make a scene until very late, and the neighbors have approached us several times; it is not out of consideration for you...

Wishing to ascertain the identity of the other party, Tong cautiously began the conversation: "My surname is Li. I came to Shanghai to visit a few friends and take a vacation. I happened to pass by this bar and did not expect to meet someone as outstanding as you... Miss is a term that has already been tarnished by the Chinese people."

You are more beautiful than flowers; it is only right to wait a little longer to dine with you. I apologize, just a joke. Are you hungry? What would you like to eat? This is your territory, so you should definitely order.

Zhu Tong felt a bit regretful, but taking a walk was not an unwise way to relax. The Bund at midnight is said to be a scenic spot in Shanghai, which he had never experienced.

In the bar at midnight, the number of patrons is not decreasing, but rather showing a trend of increase; however, the entrance of this young man causes a slight stir in the bar filled with flowing Irish music, drawing the attention of the usual night revelers at the table.

In the afternoon, Qin Miao had no classes, so Zhu Tong took her to the mall, which should be a favorite pastime for girls

However, there are still mistakes; you should not meet such friends in this place. Shanghai is a city full of temptations, and bars are the epitome of temptation. Once young people enter, they will be ensnared by its false allure. Working as a security guard does not earn much money; you are harming him.

Have you been waiting for a long time? I just returned to school today, and the teacher said a lot. Thank you! When Qin Miao sat down, her face was slightly flushed; facing the bouquet of flowers that Zhu Tong handed over, she felt a bit shy, but mostly surprised

Isn't it true that a young girl's phone is mainly used for sending text messages? That is indeed a good choice

Qingmei can drive, which is quite normal. Zhutong can also drive; although the driver's license he possesses is fake, his skills are certainly not.

The martial world still comes knocking at the door

Does this represent autonomy? Zhu Tong pondered

"Although men come here for many reasons, ultimately it is to seek romantic encounters, am I right?" The woman neither refused nor expressed any aversion, looking at Zhu Tong through the swirling wine glass: "You are one of them."

The woman of the night on the business card appeared quite imposing, adorned with a string of titles and positions, to the extent that Zhu Tong could not immediately discern what her actual profession was; before falling asleep, he recalled having seen such business cards: the woman of the night was a wealthy and leisurely noblewoman, and her array of titles was merely for amusement.

Zhu Tong smiled, the POLO sedan from Volkswagen has this reputation

A faint scent of a woman, just for a moment, captivates the young boy; the night woman is the woman among women, with just one kiss, their positions seem to have reversed.

The old swindler once said: a rogue cloaked in the guise of a gentleman is as difficult to deal with as a wolf in sheep's clothing, and they are among the most challenging creatures in the world

Qin Miao walked over from across the street, her backpack accentuating her figure alongside the books, making her appear increasingly alluring. There was a subtle spring in her step, reminiscent of a rose just beginning to bloom.

Zhu Tong put the business card into his pocket, but found that there was a problem with the banknotes. Under the light of the bedside lamp, he noticed that the letters and numbers were the same: LH75243168

The number of guests in the bar has decreased. Zhu Tong thought through the entire situation from beginning to end, feeling that nothing was overlooked. He relaxed and began to observe the women wandering around him. He is a man with strong desires, and cigarettes are a satisfying companion, but unfortunately, they are not by his side. Having not been in contact with women for half a month, Zhu Tong felt a bit restless.

This should be a good companion in bed, someone who appears calm on the surface but is restless within. After finishing her judgment, Zhu Tong suggested, "How about we change to another bar? I know a place where the pine nut liquor has beauty benefits for women."

The woman of the night skillfully and passionately courted, her arms draped over Zhu Tong's shoulders, greedily seeking an unusual thrill.

Wang Juefei is not only the director of the Ocean Hospital but also the deputy dean of the Ocean Medical College; his entry into Zhu Tong's line of sight was quite accidental

The warmth of the heating in the bar contrasts with the chilling atmosphere outside, as late autumn in Shanghai has already set in. Standing on the stone steps of the Bund, illuminated by lights, the waters of the Huangpu River flow eastward, as if it were still daytime. Only a few tourists pass by, mostly from out of town.

Officer Huang, you are a police officer; do you not understand this? If you do not pick up the phone, can anyone sleep here at night?

The young man was clearly from another province, with thick eyebrows, big eyes, and a buzz cut; he was quite a spirited individual. However, his appearance in a security uniform at a bar was truly out of place.

The night at the Bund remains brilliant, and this evening, the little trickster is destined to spend it alone

Having spoken, the woman turned around, revealing a radiant smile: "Is it very unfamiliar and clichéd? I often wonder, how much of what men say is truly credible? What does forever mean? For me, forever represents three years"

The old swindler once boasted about his skills in an astonishing manner, yet Zhu Tong could not discern anything remarkable about him. It was merely because he had been teased by a young woman at night, but ultimately failed to experience a moment of passion with her. In the morning, overwhelmed by desire, he resorted to this set of skills to gather his thoughts.

Three months ago, Zhu Tong hired him with a monthly salary of 5,000, with the sole task of ensuring security while monitoring Qingmei's life, observing whom she associates with and whether any unexpected incidents occur

Are you also a liar? The woman in the night struggled weakly

In Zhu Tong's view, cultivating tranquility and nurturing the body is the greatest benefit of this set of skills; Zhu Tong has never understood the exact age of the old trickster, but perhaps the greatest ability the old trickster acquired after practicing this skill is still in bed, as evidenced by the birth certificate of that little girl by the seaside in Shandong.

Good idea, let's go right away. It's been a long time since we visited the Bund