Chapter 4, The Past

When one loses, divorces, and cannot resolve their emotions, they turn to alcohol for help

The person was discovered in the supermarket. Lu Jianzhong saw Zhong Zhilü entering the supermarket from a distance, and his feet moved uncontrollably, following her; the supermarket was crowded, and her tall and slender figure quickly disappeared behind various shelves. After a while, he saw her again in the deli section, where she was intently bending over to select marinated dishes. Just as Lu Jianzhong was about to greet her, a middle-aged man nearby caught his attention. The man had an unremarkable appearance, was tall, and his gaze was much sharper than that of an average person. Despite the presence of three to five people in the deli section, there was no doubt that the middle-aged man was observing none other than Zhong Zhilü.

Zhi Lu remained silent for a while before deciding to leave. Two years of marriage were not in vain; with such a tone, she had a premonition that what he was about to say was absolutely crucial.

Anything is acceptable

Zhi Lu, hesitantly taking the cup, raised her head and began to address the matter at hand: "How did I end up at your house?"

This kiss is silent

"What?" Yang Li immediately stopped and turned around

She stammered, "I am sorry, I am sorry. I just lost my train of thought and did not pay attention to my surroundings."

Sitting up, she crossed the living room to the wine cabinet to get a drink. The wine cabinet was connected to the kitchen, the door slightly ajar, with moonlight spilling in, illuminating the smooth marble countertop and the wooden knife rack, casting light on the tea-colored cabinets with their rounded corners. She turned around, surveying this place that had once been home under the moonlight. A few years ago, Ye Zhongke had brought her here for the first time, also at this time of night. At that time, she had recently broken up with Tao Ru, and her mood was quite poor. Moreover, it was her dormitory classmate Luo Luo's birthday, so she made an excuse to drink excessively, and finally succeeded in getting drunk, unable to rise from the sofa in the private room. A few years ago, Ye Zhongke had brought her here for the first time, also at this time of night. At that time, she had recently broken up with Tao Ru, and her mood was quite poor. Moreover, it was her dormitory classmate Luo Luo's birthday, so she made an excuse to drink excessively, and finally succeeded in getting drunk, unable to rise from the sofa in the private room.

Zhu looked at her with an encouraging gaze

Oh, Zhi Lu found herself at a loss for words. In fact, she had many questions, but felt too embarrassed to ask them. For instance, how she would go upstairs, how to take off her shoes, how she ended up on the sofa, and how long she had been in his arms. At the most awkward moments of her life, he had seen everything clearly, and all she wanted was to disappear quickly, to cease to exist forever. Her bag was on the coffee table; she leaned over to reach it, pulled out her phone to check the time, and as if scalded, exclaimed, "What, it's already 2 o'clock! It seems I can't go back to school now"

Watching her slowly walk into the bedroom, Zhi Lu recalled the sound from just now. To confirm, she called out to her: "Xiao Li, I want to ask you something"

Ye Zhong'e frowned and coldly said: "I remember you are my wife, and I truly want to know, without you, can the newspaper still operate?"

Lu Jianzhong unceremoniously took the cake and shopping bag from her hands and waved for a taxi

At that time, she was also drunk and felt utterly embarrassed by his two remarks. After he said, "Why are you still not moving in my arms?" she abruptly threw off the suit covering her, and with unimaginable speed, she wriggled out of his embrace, flustered and hurriedly retreating to the other side of the sofa, stammering, "I didn't notice, really, I didn't react in time. I didn't mean it. I'm sorry, I'm sorry."

After carefully considering her words, Zhi Lu finally asked: "Have you heard any strange noises at night recently? They seem to be coming from upstairs"

Her tone was not high, but the underlying anger in her words was not lost on him. Since he had said so, Zhi Lu could not sleep any longer. She sat up and explained softly, "I have been working overtime for two consecutive days and am utterly exhausted. Once I regain my energy, I will definitely fulfill my duties as a wife properly." In her extreme fatigue, the glow of her skin had almost completely faded.

The master bedroom is located upstairs, corresponding to the storage room and study. Zhi Lu opened the door to the study, turned on the light, and carefully observed everything. Everything was normal; neither the books, the bookshelves on the walls, nor the computer desk could emit any sound on their own

"That is fine." Lu Jianzhong nodded, "I also have something to ask you."

This is all a predictable reaction. Ye Zhong'e relaxed his embrace a little, creating some distance between the two of them. He was not the least bit annoyed, and he looked at her face with great care, "But when I asked you just now, you did not respond like this."

Hmm. Yang Li bit her lip, lowered her head, and tried her best to hold back her tears

"Listening to you, I feel that there is something you haven't told me. You are avoiding the main issue," Zhu Shi said while observing Zhi Lu's expression. Noticing a clear change in her demeanor, he continued, "It is your emotional knot. I ask you, can you still reconcile with your ex-husband?"

Zhi Lu realized her mistake and suddenly felt afraid. She obediently listened to his reprimand and only then revealed a smile, sincerely expressing her gratitude: "Thank you for saving me. The people's police are indeed different. By the way, Officer Lu, what are you doing here?"

"If Liu Bei and Cao Cao can sit together to discuss heroes over wine, why can't we?" Ye Zhongke's eyes narrowed slightly, and his slender eyebrows arched upwards, accentuating his hair, which was as dark as ink

She had just lain down when the knocking on the door began. She put on her coat and slipped on her slippers to go open the door, pondering what to say.

Zhi Lu shifted her gaze, "We are not enemies, just friends."

Ye Zhong'e continued in a negotiating tone, saying: "I have told you before that the profession of a journalist is not suitable for you, but you insisted on pursuing it, so I went along with your decision. Zhi Lu, ask yourself honestly, have I ever obstructed you in any way over the past two years? I believed that with your intelligence, you could manage both family and work well, and I have always given you opportunities. There are many journalists in the world, and most of them can handle it properly; why can't you? I have never opposed your work; you can choose any easy profession, but the prerequisite is that you must take care of the family!"

It is a matter related to work, and there are also constant small quarrels. We are all busy, and there are only two days a week when we can eat at the same table. I am very tired from work, and I cannot take care of many things at home. Two months before the divorce, he brought it up with me, expressing that he did not want me to continue being a journalist... At this point, there was silence.

Anger surged to the forefront of Ye Zhongke's mind as he raised his voice a few notches, sternly saying: "Zhong Zhilü! Go look in the mirror and see what you look like now! You were quite spirited at work, but you come home like this. Your face is as pale as a ghost, you lack energy, and you walk unsteadily. It seems that this family is not as important to you as your job, is it? You would rather smile and be cheerful with your colleagues than show a good face to your husband? The newspaper office can operate without you; you should go resign tomorrow!"

There have always been people who say she is an outlier. During her freshman year, there were always some indistinct-faced boys pursuing her, writing her letters, sending flowers and gifts to her dormitory. Some went so far as to block her on her way back from study sessions, even following her. Fortunately, nothing serious happened. During that time, she was truly exasperated. Fortunately, these boys were relatively rational; after they learned she had a boyfriend, the number of boys around her gradually decreased. She felt her ears were clear, completely liberated, and finally able to focus on her own matters. Fortunately, these boys were relatively rational; after they learned she had a boyfriend, the number of boys around her gradually decreased. She felt her ears were clear, completely liberated, and finally able to focus on her own matters

He pointed to the room in the corner, "It is very clean, a cleaner comes to tidy it up every two days"

Meeting Ye Zhong'e was a variable in her life, something she had never imagined before. If she had not encountered this person, perhaps she would not have gotten married, would have continued to work alone in the provincial capital after graduation, and would have continued her career as a journalist. In short, she definitely would not be as battered and bruised as she is now, with a heart as cold as ashes

"So you still want to go back to school?" Ye Zhong'e said with a mix of laughter and exasperation, "Tomorrow is Saturday, you don't have classes, so there's no need to rush."

After returning to the city, Zhi Lu took Tao Ru to stay at the guesthouse of the university. Tao Ru has always been particular about his accommodations, and perhaps due to his prolonged stay abroad, he frowned upon seeing the old, dilapidated building of the guesthouse, clearly indicating that it did not meet his aesthetic standards

He tightened his arms, pulling her a little closer, and said slowly: "Are you confused? You've been awake for a while now, why are you still lying motionless in my embrace?"

At this moment, her foggy brain was completely awakened. Zhi Lu was so angry that her whole body trembled. She wanted to refute, a multitude of thoughts and words surged up, but none could be expressed. She took a deep breath, suppressed the trembling of her fingers, and said: "Is this place solely mine? If I do not agree, what do you intend to do?"

Drinking is also acceptable; come find me to drink together. Moreover, the wine here is the best.

He then said, "Your silence implies consent."

She had never been this intimate with a man in her entire life, her face was almost burning, and she became increasingly stammering, softly justifying herself with words that did not convey her meaning: "Well, I was drunk, my mind was unclear, right? That should be the case."

Zhi Lu looked up in surprise, "With you?"

He said: "I happened to arrive here while investigating a case. I just saw you in the supermarket and have been following you ever since"

It is impossible, don't say that he is unwilling to take me back, " Zhi Lu's voice suddenly lowered, " even if he is willing, I do not have the courage to be his wife again, one failure is enough. Let it be, what else can be done.

Friend? Ye Zhong'e remained unfazed, taking a step into the room, while she stepped back. "All this time, do you think we are just friends?"

Zhi Lu's lips moved slightly as she looked at her

Yang Li exclaimed in surprise, "Ah!" His voice was off-key: "Sister Zhi Lu, how did you know?"

Zhi Lu recalled the descriptions of kisses in literary works, but at this moment, she realized that no matter how ornate the words, they could not accurately depict her current feelings. The collision and grinding of their lips conveyed a wealth of information: his heartbeat, his warmth, his breath, his scent. Her heart raced violently, like thousands of war drums beating in unison; a flood of thoughts surged into her mind like a dam breaking, with sharp pains and numbness spreading from her fingertips to the tops of her feet. Vaguely, a thought blossomed in her mind: perhaps he was right. She did not know when it had begun, but she had developed feelings for him, maybe because of his profound knowledge, or his refreshing demeanor, or perhaps his mature charm, or even his appearance. In any case, she had fallen for him, and then they began to date, eventually getting married, divorcing, and parting ways, just like in a movie.

Zhu Shi gently patted her shoulder and said, "Perhaps you really do not know how to take care of others. Was your ex-husband your first boyfriend?"

He smiled as a matter of course and said, "When I called you, your classmate said you were drunk, so I happened to pass by there and brought you back."

The harsh beginning starts here. Zhi Lu stopped reminiscing and glanced at Zhu Shi, discovering that he was encouraging her with a gentle gaze to continue speaking. Thus, she forced a smile and said: "He said that I can't even take care of the family. If I don't agree, our relationship will only worsen... Doctor Zhu, I cannot speak these words in front of others. I won't hide it from you; we have been married for almost three years, yet I have hardly bought even his underwear... At that time, I didn't think I was doing anything wrong. I thought he would be just fine without me... I won't hide it from you; we have been married for almost three years, yet I have hardly bought even his underwear... At that time, I didn't think I was doing anything wrong. I thought he would be just fine without me. I also felt that he didn't understand me. It was only after he proposed divorce that I realized I had been wrong all along. He endured me for so long, and finally lost hope in me, unable to continue living with me. Yes, I have truly failed as a wife. And he has many better choices; I just thought, let me fulfill him... He endured me for so long, and finally lost hope in me, unable to continue living with me. Yes, I have truly failed as a wife. And he has many better choices; I just thought, let me fulfill him...

What about the subsequent disagreements

She first ordered a cake downstairs, specifying that there should be eighteen candles, and then went upstairs

That is good

Lu Jianzhong's expression slightly cleared up, and he gestured for her to get into the taxi, then he also sat inside. "This is not a place for conversation"

Then there is nothing more to say. This answer made Zhi Lu feel slightly relieved. It must be an auditory hallucination. Just as Zhu Shi said, at this stage of insomnia, experiencing auditory hallucinations is normal. The only question is, how much longer will her insomnia last? Another month? Two months? Half a year? More likely, it could be a lifetime? There is no answer to be found.

Zhi Lu sat up in a daze. The double bed was spacious, and the pillows were a pair. Her hand pressed down on the soft pillow, sinking into it. For several nights, she had been hearing such sounds, and she could no longer distinguish whether it was an auditory hallucination; in fact, she would feel uncomfortable if she did not hear it, as a little sound was a good thing. Without sleep, the nights were hard to endure; she felt that being alive was truly exhausting, unable to sleep every day, waiting for that sound to appear

The light at the other end of the living room suddenly turned on, and Yang Li rubbed her eyes as she came over from the bathroom. She appeared increasingly petite, and the small-sized pajamas looked oversized on her. She tilted her head and saw Zhi Lu at the staircase, momentarily stunned, "Sister Zhi Lu, you are still not asleep"

Under his gaze, Zhi Lu felt a sense of guilt and shortness of breath, deeply ashamed. "I am sorry for causing you trouble. I will never drink so much alcohol again."

Perhaps she did indeed say these words, but she cannot remember. There are too many of her own words in her memory. She lowered her head, the scent of alcohol wafting up, making her feel dizzy. Her body acted on its own, toppling forward once again into his embrace, her forehead resting against his broad shoulder

At present, it is merely a guess. Lu Jianzhong knows that she is under immense psychological pressure and cannot bear to frighten her any further. He simply says, "Perhaps I am being overly concerned, but please be sure to be cautious. If anything happens, call me immediately. Memorize the numbers for the home, mobile phone, and the public security bureau, if possible."

Not knowing how long she had been standing at the storage room door, she finally managed to move, dragging her leaden legs down the stairs, cradling the bottle of champagne in her arms, heavy and cold to the touch

Ah? Zhi Lu cried out, beginning to struggle, "I didn't agree to this."

After hanging up the phone, Zhi Lu went to the supermarket

She was completely petrified and then took a long time to confirm the situation

Zhi Lu shook her head with a bitter smile, "It's completely impossible. I just want to have a good sleep, can't there be another way?"

Ye Zhong'e would naturally not give her the chance to escape. He suddenly reached out his hand, without any warning, and embraced her, burying his head in her neck, whispering in her ear: "Zhi Lu, Zhi Lu. You know my feelings, don't you? Please don't evade any longer, accept me, and be my girlfriend, okay?"

She gave him a slight nod and said "I am back" before intending to continue sleeping

When I became aware, I was already on the other side of the road, and there was another person beside me, Lu Jianzhong. His face was ashen, appearing even more somber than his police uniform

After the initial shock, the fearless and passionate spirit she had as a journalist was revived once again. She calmly nodded and said, "Alright, I will be careful. By the way, is there any progress on Sister Xu's case?"

There is no need to ask deliberately; everything is self-evident. He always finds a way to steer the conversation in the direction he desires. This question, whether answered affirmatively or negatively, yields an unfavorable outcome. Zhi Lu dared not interject, only managing a couple of forced laughs to mask her nervousness, her smile strained and barely holding up.

Too much silence surpasses a shared roar. Indeed, that is the case

She closed the door and arrived at the entrance of the storage room, her hand resting on the round doorknob, yet she did not move. Two months ago, this room was thoroughly locked by her, as if the door to her heart had been firmly sealed, making it impossible for anyone to open. The key to the room is in a small box downstairs. She does not know if she can still find that box now. The sound certainly did not come from here. The key to the room is in a small box downstairs. She does not know if she can still find that box now. The sound certainly did not come from here

Zhi Lu quickly picked up on the sensitive vocabulary: "Ah, the case, how is the progress of the case?"

Now she finally has the time to look around this house. Just by looking at the living room, one can tell that this house is definitely not small. The furniture is brand new, and there is not a speck of dust on the chandelier. The decoration is also impeccable, featuring a blue and white color scheme that is both grand and elegant

Zhi Lu quickly shook her head, "No need, no need." Then she felt fortunate that it was winter, as she could sleep in her autumn shirt and autumn pants

In retrospect, Ye Zhong'e's intentions at that time were not pure. He was difficult to reach at other times, yet he always called when she was with Tao Ru, claiming to have brought her books. The purpose was so evident, yet she stubbornly refused to think along those lines. Zhilu had this deep-seated flaw; once she believed in someone, she would not harbor suspicions about others.

Zhi Lu stammered, "What, what is going on? How did I end up here?"

Zhi Lu asked him: "Come to my house, I will make dumplings. It is Xiao Li's birthday today, so it will be lively. Also, no matter what, I must thank you for saving my life"

Zhi Lu was momentarily stunned as the sharp kitchen knife fell. Fortunately, she acted quickly and managed to make an emergency stop at the last moment, the blade narrowly grazing the back of her hand, cutting a small gash. Blood surged out from the wound, dripping onto the white cabbage, creating a striking contrast of snow white and blood red. The pain from the wound was within her expectations, and she held back her cries. With her other hand, she reached up to the cabinet above her head, found a band-aid, and tore it open to apply it.

Her psychologist is named Zhu Shi, a woman in her thirties, who is poised and graceful, exuding a sense of comfort. Upon learning that she was referred by He Qingning, she displayed a considerable degree of enthusiasm. She is indeed a resourceful person, quickly clarifying the situation and then offering her advice: "You have been experiencing insomnia for two months and have auditory hallucinations; even visual hallucinations are normal. The most effective solution is to have your ex-husband come back and stay with you for a while."

Ye Zhong'e spoke clearly, each word resonating: "Zhi Lu, for several months now, we have only been able to meet at this time in the evening. Look at this room; it is completely devoid of vitality. This home is no longer a home; it has merely become a place to rest. No matter when I return home, it is always empty. This cannot continue; you should resign."

At this moment, I heard him say: "Zhi Lu, is this how you welcome your husband who just returned from a business trip? After being away for a week, I thought you would be more enthusiastic."

She casually took a bottle of champagne from the wine cabinet, preparing to return to the bedroom, when she noticed the staircase railing on the other side of the cabinet. Suddenly, that faint sound echoed in her ears once more, seemingly drifting over from the staircase. She was taken aback, instinctively holding her breath, suddenly feeling afraid, yet her feet did not stop, as she stepped onto the stairs

However, Tao Ru did not think so. After several arguments, they ultimately parted ways. At that time, he said, "Zhi Lu, we are not suitable for each other. I have spent so much time trying to understand this. You are a good person, but you are not suitable to be a girlfriend. All this time, you have never said a word to me about missing me, you have never asked if I am well-fed and warmly dressed... I am also tired. I originally wanted to return to the country for you, I had already started looking for a job, but it seems unnecessary now. All this time, you have never said a word to me about missing me, you have never asked if I am well-fed and warmly dressed... I am also tired. I originally wanted to return to the country for you, I had already started looking for a job, but it seems unnecessary now. You are not someone suitable to be a girlfriend, and if you continue to have this kind of personality, no one will be happy with you."

While waiting for the bus, he said again: "Do you know the annual incidence and mortality rates of traffic accidents? Do you know that the car just now nearly hit you! There was only a distance of one or two meters!"

Early on the weekend, Yang Li went to school for extra classes. After much consideration, Zhi Lu took the address given to her by He Qingning and found the psychological counseling company.

Zhi Lu suddenly recalled the phrase from "Shishuo Xinyu": "With pearls and jades at my side, I feel my form is filthy." She found it amusing, and her lips involuntarily curled up. There are indeed such people in this world. And he clearly knows what can touch her the most

It was just the time to get off work, and the supermarket was quite crowded. She had purchased various items she needed, but just before checking out, she realized she had forgotten to buy eggs. In a hurry, she rushed back, only to unexpectedly collide with someone. The man was taller than average, with a chest as solid as iron. In that moment, she felt stars dancing before her eyes. After finally regaining her balance, the perpetrator had already vanished, leaving only a silhouette behind. Zhi Lu smiled wryly, acknowledging that there are indeed such unreasonable and unprincipled people in the world, and she could only consider herself unfortunate.

Zhi Lu watched Yang Li return to the bedroom, while she curled up in a corner of the living room sofa, only turning on the wall lamp, drinking alcohol sip by sip. The fine white liquor had a rich and fragrant taste, reminiscent of the years gone by

He noticed her thoughts and a smile appeared at the corner of his mouth. "It was renovated six months ago, feel free to take a look. I will go take a shower first, do you want to wash up? There is a bathroom in the living room, and all the toiletries are new. I will find some clothes for you."

Zhong Zhilü is undoubtedly a rare beauty, with a graceful and poised demeanor that is beyond reproach. It is not surprising that men notice her; it would be strange if they did not. However, the gaze of this particular individual is different—calm and judgmental, as if assessing something. Six or seven years of police experience tell him that this person is certainly not of good character. Thus, he observes quietly, watching what the man intends to do. In the end, the man does nothing; when he turns his gaze, he quickly retracts the sharpness in his eyes, scrutinizing her without leaving a trace, always maintaining a safe distance from her. Six or seven years of police experience tell him that this person is certainly not of good character. Thus, he observes quietly, watching what the man intends to do. In the end, the man does nothing; when he turns his gaze, he quickly retracts the sharpness in his eyes, scrutinizing her without leaving a trace, always maintaining a safe distance from her.

Across the wide road is the bus station. She fixed her gaze on the target and stepped forward in a daze, one step, two steps. Suddenly, a sharp scream rang out behind her, and she was taken aback, stopping in her tracks, wanting to turn around to look. However, before she could fully turn, a dark figure swiftly approached, and a pair of hands seized her shoulders. Then, that person executed a series of movements that nearly lifted her off the ground, and she vaguely felt the rush of wind by her ear. Suddenly, a sharp scream rang out behind her, and she was taken aback, stopping in her tracks, wanting to turn around to look. However, before she could fully turn, a dark figure swiftly approached, and a pair of hands seized her shoulders. Then, that person executed a series of movements that nearly lifted her off the ground, and she vaguely felt the rush of wind by her ear.

Finally, she left the supermarket carrying a heavy shopping bag and a cake. In the evening, as the sun set, the sunset was dazzling, and all her fatigue accumulated; the heavy bag weighed down her arm to the point of almost dislocating it. Feeling weak, she wanted to go home, to hurry home.

Ye Zhong'e stood at the door, dressed in gray pajamas, appearing taller. He did not come in, resting his hand on the door, "I came to say goodnight"

No, '' Zhi Lu strives to bring a hint of smile to the weary face, saying, '' Xiao Li, tomorrow, oh, actually it is already today, is it your birthday? ''

Looking around in confusion, she discovered that many people were watching her and pointing; some had expressions of approval, giving a thumbs up to Lu Jianzhong. The traffic on the road was heavy, coming and going like rain. It was only then that Zhi Lu remembered she had just crossed the road, her face turning pale as a sheet, cold sweat dampening her palms

This statement reassured her; as long as there was progress, it indicated hope. She got up and went to the kitchen, washed her hands, and began to grind the meat filling, chopping chives and cabbage. She worked quickly and efficiently, completely unlike someone who had never lifted a finger. Lu Jianzhong watched her from the kitchen door, secretly surprised, and asked, "Did you often make dumplings before?"

It is unlikely that there will be another opportunity to repay.

He grasped her shoulder, his voice no less forceful than a shout: "What are you doing? Didn't you see the sidewalk? Didn't you see the traffic lights? Ah, how dare you cross the road like that?!"

Knowing it is crucial, I was still taken aback when I actually opened my mouth to speak

That night, Lu did not sleep well, and Zhu's medicine had also lost its effectiveness. She was awakened by strange sounds, which were around two o'clock in the morning. The sound seemed to be coming from the walls, deep and heavy, passing through her body, swirling within her flesh and blood, faintly echoing.

"That's right," Zhi Lu patted her, "Don't you have evening study tonight? Come back early. What do you want to eat? I will make it for you." After saying this, however, she did not receive the expected response. Yang Li was in a daze, remaining silent for a long time. Zhi Lu had no choice but to ask and answer herself, "How about dumplings? I heard the dumplings I make are very delicious."

Since childhood, her father taught her to be "independent and self-reliant". Six years of middle school and four years of university, ten years have already accounted for a small half of her life. Such a long period of time is sufficient for a person to develop many habits that determine their life, and these habits have accumulated over time to shape her current character. Compared to a life with a boyfriend, she prefers to be alone. Love is merely an interlude in life, just one of many matters in daily life. Zhi Lu feels that without love, it is not a big deal.

He did not mention the case even when he arrived at the community building.

It is a long story. When Tao Ru returned to the country for the last time, she had a premonition. This is not a hindsight observation; from the moment they met at the airport exit, something felt off. Although the smile of the young man in front of her had not changed, they could not retrieve the feelings and atmosphere they once shared. After all, five years had passed, and she could not even remember his facial features clearly. To confirm his appearance, she scrutinized him closely and was astonished to find that she did not long to see him as much as she had imagined, leaving her momentarily at a loss for words. After a pause, she finally managed to smile.

Despite being utterly exhausted, Mingming had to continue with her work. There were already some in the unit who had expressed their discontent regarding her frequent absences. Not to mention that Deng Muhua had shown her kindness, as her senior, she could not allow her to be put in a difficult position or lose face. The next afternoon, she took the initiative to visit a highly respected elderly writer to request a commission. The elderly gentleman had devoted his later years to academic research and no longer wrote. Due to years of illness, his temper was not particularly good, but in the end, she managed to persuade him, and he agreed.

Zhi Lu lowered her eyes, and after a long time, she finally had the courage to speak: "I think he can no longer tolerate me. At first, he wanted children, but I did not. For a period, we slept in separate rooms, and we argued about this, but he still yielded to me. I had no choice; I couldn't get pregnant and have a child right after graduating and starting my career. I have my own career, my own pursuits, and I haven't had the chance to do anything yet. How could I have a child?"

In the end, he slightly deviated from the normal route, walking past her and seemingly bumping into her for no reason. He chased after her, but due to the distance between them, he ultimately returned empty-handed; burdened with thoughts, he returned to the supermarket entrance, only to see Lu unexpectedly crossing the road, with a Mercedes speeding towards her. In that instant, he disregarded everything and rushed to save her

Ye Zhong'e smiled, and the warmth in his eyes conveyed a message, "You said you liked me and were willing to be my girlfriend. Do you want to go back on your word? This is not something you, Zhong Zhilü, would do"

Then the two took the airport bus back to the city. The vehicle was heated, and they placed their suitcases on the rack before sitting down side by side. Within a few minutes, the bus was filled with people, and the breath they exhaled swirled in the air above the vehicle, so dense that it seemed to have a scent

Zhi Lu felt helpless and took him to the Xiyuan Hotel located to the west of the school. Usually, when they chatted online or over the phone, their conversations were limited. What he was interested in, she was not; what she liked, he did not. Now, they were even more at a loss for words. She thought that regardless of how it went, they should find a topic to discuss. Just as this thought flashed through her mind, Tao Ru held her hand. She felt somewhat unaccustomed to it and instinctively wanted to pull away, but he tightened his grip and gently said, "I came back to spend Christmas with you." She thought that regardless of how it went, they should find a topic to discuss. Just as this thought flashed through her mind, Tao Ru held her hand. She felt somewhat unaccustomed to it and instinctively wanted to pull away, but he tightened his grip and gently said, "I came back to spend Christmas with you."

She has always taken showers at an astonishing speed. After finishing, he had not yet come out, so she took her clothes and bag and slipped into the guest room, only to discover that it was surprisingly furnished with a double bed. In her memory, it seemed she had never slept on such a large bed. During her university years, it goes without saying that she could only sleep on a small bed; at home, there was also a single bed, which was not much larger than the one at school. Although the house was over 100 square meters, her room was the smallest. After placing a few large bookshelves and a desk, there was hardly any space left for the bed. During her university years, it goes without saying that she could only sleep on a small bed; at home, there was also a single bed, which was not much larger than the one at school. Although the house was over 100 square meters, her room was the smallest. After placing a few large bookshelves and a desk, there was hardly any space left for the bed.

At that time, Zhi Lu did not take these words to heart. She had no intention of being with anyone, believing that living alone was quite good. When he did not return, she studied and lived with her friends and classmates, enjoying as much freedom as one could have, attending classes, studying in the library, and participating in numerous club activities. While others worried about love and academic pressures, she was hardly troubled. She had a good memory, her English was decent, and the courses in the Chinese department posed no challenge for her; she could easily rank among the top three without much effort. Of course, there were moments of frustration, such as when fundraising for sick classmates yielded little result, when a dorm mate was scammed while working, or when her mother called to scold her, but overall, she was motivated and positive. Among all the things that troubled her, it seemed that emotions were absent. Of course, there were moments of frustration, such as when fundraising for sick classmates yielded little result, when a dorm mate was scammed while working, or when her mother called to scold her, but overall, she was motivated and positive. Among all the things that troubled her, it seemed that emotions were absent.

At this moment, Lu Jianzhong finally took off his police cap and said, "The clues you provided are very useful"

In this matter, the two could never reach an agreement. Even with ample spirit, Lu did not wish to argue with him much, let alone now when she felt so listless. She went to the bathroom to splash her face with cold water, casually tied up her hair, and came out to ask him: "Have you eaten? If not, I can cook something now. Hmm, what would you like to eat?"

"If we each take a step back, it will be fine," Zhu Shi said. "Work is temporary, and it is all about serving others. Miss Zhong, to speak frankly, your husband and children are your lifelong support. Taking a step back for them is not a bad thing."

Due to the shock, Zhi Lu was unable to utter a single word for a long time, instinctively staring at him.

Zhi Lu was taken aback by his serious expression, "What degree would be considered strange?"

The adhesive bandage was placed there by Ye Zhong'e. She was always careful when chopping vegetables, but once she cut her hand, and he placed the bandage there, scolding her affectionately for being clumsy. Later on, she cooked much less frequently; on two occasions, Ye Zhong'e rarely took the initiative to request the dumplings she made, to which she responded with a "mm-hmm," but she never made them again.

Deng Muhua praised her over the phone: "That's impressive. I have been there twice and ended up with nothing. Sigh, at this point, there's no need to return to the office."

It is thus owed.

That day, upon returning from work, it was nearly ten o'clock. She was extremely tired, throwing herself and her handbag onto the sofa, feeling completely drained and unwilling to move, beginning to doze off; not long after, she was suddenly jolted awake. Blinking in confusion, she opened her eyes to see Ye Zhong'e sitting on the opposite sofa, drinking tea, silently watching her with a face devoid of any smile.

"Not entirely, I had a very close friend of the opposite sex in high school, you could say he was my boyfriend," Zhi Lu reflected, her voice unconsciously tinged with self-mockery. "He went abroad after graduating from high school, and I waited for him for four or five years. He did come back, but he wanted to break up with me, saying that I would never learn how to care for others in my lifetime. At that time, I didn't believe it, but looking back now, Tao Ru was indeed very accurate..."

When we had just gotten married, Ye Zhong'e said: "Before marriage, there were many times I intended to give you gifts, but I faced tremendous difficulties. After getting to know you, I suddenly realized that there are indeed people in this world whom you simply cannot enhance with anything. You are like a perfect egg, and the only way to break that shell is through a spiritual connection. Therefore, my choice is to give you books, the ones you want to read but cannot find." You are like a perfect egg, and the only way to break that shell is through a spiritual connection. Therefore, my choice is to give you books, the ones you want to read but cannot find.

Zhi Lu paused and asked, "How did they all resolve it?"

His voice was filled with seduction, or perhaps it was a forceful embrace, and Zhi Lu found it difficult to breathe and speak

Zhi Lu was in a fit of anger and blurted out, "So you are not giving me a cold shoulder right now! Ye Zhong'e, let me tell you, resigning is absolutely out of the question! You have no right to order me around!"

Indeed, why does she not move? She is so reluctant to part with the warmth and comfort of his embrace. She once had the warmest and safest embrace in the world, yet she gave it up. Is there anyone more foolish than she?

He revealed a charming smile and said, "This is my home"

In the middle of the night, Zhi Lu was startled to find them sitting on the sofa in a certain intimate posture. Ye Zhong'e was leaning against the back of the sofa, resting with his eyes half-closed. His tie was askew, and a few buttons of his shirt collar were undone, revealing smooth skin and perfect lines. She was held in his arms, her head resting on his shoulder, covered by his suit jacket. The faint scent of his cologne wafted into her nostrils. She was held in his arms, her head resting on his shoulder, covered by his suit jacket. The faint scent of his cologne wafted into her nostrils

Zhi Lu was dumbfounded, "What did I say?"

To my surprise, after saying this, Ye Zhong'e showed no appreciation at all. He pointed to the sofa and calmly and indifferently said, "Come here, sit down"

His eyelashes fluttered slightly, and he opened his eyes, revealing long and beautiful eyes that sparkled with light, reflecting her figure.

Zhu Shi pondered, "Then I will prescribe you another kind of sleeping pill with fewer side effects." She wrote the prescription and then asked, "Since you can't let go, why agree to the divorce? It takes a hundred years of cultivation to share a boat, and it's not easy to be married. If it's not a matter of great importance, why divorce?"

Zhu Shi said: "I feel that your feelings for each other are still there, and the idea of divorce is truly terrible. I have seen many couples fail, and most disputes arising from work issues can find a way to be resolved. Both you and your husband are intelligent people, yet you cannot find a solution?"

Yang Li was momentarily taken aback, a fleeting expression of unusual emotion passing across her face, quickly replaced by confusion and bewilderment. She shook her head and said, "Sound? What sound?"

Perhaps it was at that time that this problem arose

Could this be considered a proactive gesture of affection? Ye Zhong'e cautiously cradled her face, his lips brushing against her smooth forehead; he noticed that her entire body was tense, seemingly trembling, yet she did not reject his actions. Thus, the kiss traveled downward, gliding over her eyes, her cheeks, and finally landing on her lips, lingering and caressing gently, as soft and sweet as he had imagined.

On both sides of the corridor on the second floor, there are four rooms: one study, which is the largest; one bedroom with a small hall; and another slightly smaller room at the very end, which she has converted into a storage room. She turned on the wall lamp in the small hall and stood at the entrance of the corridor, surveying her surroundings under the warm orange light. It had not been cleaned for a long time, and there was dust on the glass coffee table.

What is going on here again

After entering the room, Lu Jianzhong looked around and furrowed his impressive brows, asking solemnly: "Have you encountered any strange occurrences recently?"

Ye Zhong'e raised his eyebrows and stood up, turned on the lights in the living room, poured her some water, and with a warm and friendly smile said, "Have a little water to sober up"

Ye Zhong'e led her step by step into the trap, didn't he

Lu Jianzhong slowly uttered an "oh," his voice revealing contemplation and analysis. He recalled a scene he had witnessed in the supermarket, hesitated for a moment, and finally asked, "Do you feel like someone is following you?"

Zhi Lu thought for a moment and then asked, "Are there any extra guest rooms available"

Zhi Lu smiled and said, "Where? I have encountered more troublesome people when I was a reporter, but it was nothing more than catering to their preferences; it wasn't particularly difficult."

Zhi Lu pointed at herself with her finger and, in a childlike manner, asked, "Are you saying someone is following me? Who?"

In fact, where is his companionship needed? Zhilü does not think so. At this time of year in the past, a group of sisters from the dormitory would go out to eat, drink, and ride around the lively parts of the city, stumbling back to the dormitory, feeling unwell the next day, lying in bed unable to get up. If there were classes the next day, they would say in a muffled voice: "Zhilü, if the teacher takes attendance, please help us ask for leave." Life was so comfortable, completely unnecessary for anyone else to appear.

Apart from insomnia and auditory hallucinations, there is nothing else. Zhi Lu thought for a moment, shook her head, and said, "No, it's quite normal."

Ye Zhong'e called her, and a classmate answered. Moments later, he drove over and took her away. She was unsure of her drinking habits, but usually, when she was drunk, she would fall asleep without uttering a single unnecessary word. However, that day, she spoke quite a bit. She could hardly remember what she had said, only that his voice lingered in her ears. Perhaps his voice was too enchanting, causing her to feel dazed. Whatever he asked, she obediently answered. In her inebriated state, she reminisced, saying that she might not actually like Tao Ru that much, but over time, she had gotten used to it, forgetting how to interact with others. ... Then she spoke about her elementary and middle school experiences, her long-held ideals and confidence ...

Having drunk too much alcohol, her mind was hazy. Even after lying down to sleep, she still could not figure out how things had come to be this way, and she fell asleep amidst a jumble of thoughts. When she awoke, the sky was still bright, and the light poured in like a tide through the curtains.