5. Achilles' ankle

That is also being together

Cheng Bing became anxious upon hearing this, and Xi Siyong comforted her by saying, "It's alright, at worst, I will report after the fact. I will handle that side first, and at most, my mother will just give me a beating. I will think about how to deal with it tonight, you... you just wait for my news."

The ice was holding a piece of steamed bass, and as I raised my head, I caught a glimpse of my mother's slightly melancholic face, which suddenly filled me with a sense of guilt, making the tender fish slices on my tongue tasteless. Glancing over at Xi Siyong, I met his contemplative gaze and quickly lowered my head to eat my rice: "Mom, I will come back to see you often"

Long live the Empress Dowager, may she be blessed with peace and prosperity

The air-conditioned compartment was somewhat cold at night, and as she shivered, she burrowed into Xi Siyong's embrace. The night was very quiet, with only the faint sound of the train wheels clattering against the tracks. She could not sleep, not at all. Her heart was pounding in her chest, and she felt as if she could not dare to accept this reality, fearing that when morning came, she would wake up to find that all of this had merely occurred in a dream. Fortunately, the embrace that held her was warm, and this warmth reassured her, allowing her to nestle in his arms and pretend to sleep. She knew that Xi Siyong was also awake—his kisses, like a dragonfly skimming the water, landed on her eyelashes, and her heart continued to race. She felt as if she could not dare to accept this reality, fearing that when morning came, she would wake up to find that all of this had merely occurred in a dream. Fortunately, the embrace that held her was warm, and this warmth reassured her, allowing her to nestle in his arms and pretend to sleep. She knew that Xi Siyong was also awake—his kisses, like a dragonfly skimming the water, landed on her eyelashes and then slid to the back of her ear. The warm, tingling breath fell into the nape of her neck, and his cool fingertips traced her outline, making her too afraid to move, her entire body frozen against his embrace.

He raised his eyebrows and smiled at her, that smile—etched in her memory like ice. It was this very smile that had lured her to Luoyang back in the day. Now, Xi Siyong smiled at her in the same beguiling manner: "What do you think we should do?"

Xi Siyong remained silent, while Zhao Xu indignantly said: "What are the two of you planning to do?"

"K City?" Ji Shenyin tilted his head slightly, asking with a hint of surprise. Xi Siyong understood the reason for his astonishment and nodded slightly. Ji Shenyin's gaze deepened as he carefully scrutinized him before giving a noncommittal hum.

Mother, moving again is such a hassle

Where is the work assigned

Cheng Bing remained silent, and Xi Siyong helplessly asked, "What are you considering again?"

"I haven't touched these things for hundreds of years, how could I have the time to organize them?" Cheng Bing pouted in rebuttal, noticing that Xi Siyong and her mother seemed to be having a good conversation, which finally put her mind at ease. After dinner, Lin Nansheng mentioned that he had an appointment with someone from the tax bureau and asked Ji Shenyin to take her there. Cheng Bing was preparing to have Yang Ma clear out a guest room for Xi Siyong, but Xi Siyong stopped her: "I should ask A Xu first to see if he has a place to stay."

I have heard that the Empress Dowager has a family business. If I am unable to find a job in the future, Empress Dowager, you must leave a position for me, right

Xi Siyong's face suddenly froze, staring at her in disbelief, "Break up?"

The train slowly started moving, and the low walls and tall buildings outside rapidly receded in an instant. As if frozen, I quickly regained my composure: "Facts speak louder than words"

Xi Siyong smiled, appearing quite happy. Cheng Bing realized how she looked while crying and quickly wiped her face. Xi Siyong sat down on the steps beside her, wrapped his arm around her shoulder and pulled her into his embrace, saying helplessly: "Isn't it enough that I admit I was wrong?"

There is no shortage of places to stay at my home; his house is quite far from here. It requires several transfers on the subway, followed by a bus ride, taking at least two to three hours in total

Is it by bus or taxi, how much longer? Hurry up, we are waiting for you to start the meal

Before leaving school, many people left messages on the rock version, expressing their desire to send Cheng Bing off. Later, someone replied rather rudely, saying, "Are you all going to be the third wheel on such a large scale?" Instantly, everyone went silent. Xi Si Yong felt quite embarrassed and specifically posted a message, saying that anyone who wanted to send him off could go together; he had nothing to be concerned about.

The two of them had a simple dinner with the dry food and drinks that Xi Siyong had bought for Cheng Bing on the car, and then Xi Siyong made a phone call home, saying that he had to go to Shanghai for an urgent matter. Xi's father and mother did not inquire about the reason, which also indicates that Xi Siyong usually earns his parents' trust in his actions.

Then your mother will definitely have a hard time with this, have you thought about what to do?

However, now he even begins to doubt this point; reality is so cruel, how can one be confident? He asks himself that he is not completely without resources, yet in front of Ji Shenyin, a talented figure in the legal realm, he is undoubtedly at a disadvantage; not only that, but now he even finds it difficult to support himself, how can he face Lin Nansheng's subtle hints and pressures?

... ...

Xi Siyong's expression remained unchanged as he cautiously asked, "Are you referring to Cheng Bing's mother?"

"Studying architecture for five years," he briefly explained. Ji Shenyan responded with a faint "oh," "I didn't hear Bing say that you were also coming over"

He opened his mouth again and said: "I am not saying that Cheng Bing is unreliable, I am just afraid that her family will not be easy to deal with"

The issue is both simple and clear: working in two locations presents the greatest obstacle. If one party has slightly poorer working conditions, it would not be a great loss to give it up; however, both current offers are quite good. Xi Siyong's job excels in stability and long-term development prospects, while Cheng Bing is destined to take over Nansheng Electronics sooner or later. In the current environment, even if someone has two shops in the countryside, they would be reluctant to give them up easily. Moreover, both families are in their respective cities, where they have extensive networks, making it difficult for anyone to let go so easily.

Ji Shenyan raised her eyebrows slightly and asked, "Are you talking about me?"

I want to stay in Shanghai to take care of my mother

Then your mother cannot kill an entire ship of people because of this

He is somewhat confused about himself, and even does not understand Cheng Bing. He flips through the signed agreement receipt, inexplicably resentful of his loss of composure that day. It is one thing for him to have lost face and be laughed at by his classmates every day, but now even Cheng Bing, who used to be unrestrained in front of him, seems to be mindful of his feelings in everything. Even the casual jokes from before are now spoken with caution: "In the future, no matter how far apart we are, even if you forget what your child's mother is called, you must not forget us, right?"

Xi Siyong's eyes and brows were clearly filled with a smile, yet his face was extremely serious, his thin lips pressed tightly together. Cheng Bing observed his expression, feeling an inexplicable sense of panic rising within her—she could not help but recall what Xi Siyong had said before taking her to Luoyang all those years ago. Was she, in Xi Siyong's eyes, the path worth his lifelong commitment and the abandonment of everything else?

Lin Nansheng slowly felt her way to the sofa and sat down. After a long while, she said: "It doesn't matter if it's not your own daughter that you're playing with." She struggled to organize her words, speaking intermittently, "I thought you were just caught up in the moment, but I didn't expect you to take it seriously. You and I are just being stubborn against your father, and I'm afraid that if I push too hard, you, my child, will rebel."

How old are you

With a heart full of resentment, she gritted her teeth and said: "Xi Siyong, do not go too far in your bullying!"

"So, Mom, you agree?" Cheng Bing probed, originally confident that his mother would not be able to resist him, but he did not expect her to relent so easily. He took his mother's hand and sang her praises, "I knew you were so open-minded that you would definitely agree to me!"

"Speak less while eating," Lin Nansheng said with a smile, "Which family has raised a daughter as shameless as you!"

High school, attending classes, extra lessons, reviewing... what else could be new?

With the brilliant achievements of Xi Siyong and Cheng Bing preceding them, the pressure on newcomers is inevitable. At the graduation ceremony, Cheng Bing stepped back and watched the newcomers on stage pouring their sweat. The new lead singer is a junior from Jiangxi, who started studying early and is now only seventeen years old. Cheng Bing couldn't help but reflect: "Looking at the new students in the school now, all I can say is—I too was once seventeen. Xi Siyong, what were you doing when you were seventeen?"

Why

She looked through the car window, wanting to see the expression on Xi Siyong's face when he received the text message—he was momentarily stunned, and before she could react, he had rushed to the car and stood in front of her.

She turned her head and looked at Xi Siyong with some doubt. His expression was frozen, his demeanor inscrutable, still wearing that same irritating smirk. Cheng Bing then asked: "You wouldn't have been plotting this for a long time, would you?"

When can one no longer continue to deceive oneself?

"Don't worry, my mother is not an unreasonable person," Xi Siyong said with a sigh. Cheng Bing quickly replied, "If she doesn't agree, I'll elope with you. That should be fine, right?"

The two sat on the small steps by the roadside, laughing foolishly as they watched the bustling traffic and the dazzling lights. Looking out, they could not see the end of the road, where the lights shone brilliantly, evoking a strange feeling—one of holding hands and growing old together, a sense of eternity that transcends time and space.

Bingbing, we need to have a serious talk

Xi Siyong fell silent, and after a long, long time, he finally spoke: "I feel like a failure"

However, today he had to admit that he also had such a vulnerability

You said you treated Cheng Bing as your younger sister, but what happened? Did you just take me for a blind person?

Upon returning home, she hesitated a bit and said to Lin Nansheng: "Mom, this place is too far from my workplace."

Conversely, waking up in the middle of the night or sleeping until the sun is high in the sky are both harmful behaviors for the body

However, after a long pause, he said, "Since you have made this choice, I cannot bear to let you down"

You and I

No, for minor matters, my mother has the final say, while for major matters, my father decides. For instance, actions such as attacking Iraq, combating terrorism, and eliminating Al-Qaeda members all fall under major matters; everything else is considered minor.

Xi Siyong nodded slightly, and Li Rui led everyone out of the station first, taking another vehicle to Chuanwei Xiang. After ordering the dishes and waiting for half an hour, there was still no sign of Xi Siyong. Checking the time, he asked Ren Xiao: "Has the car left? Why hasn't Siyong come out yet? Is he hiding somewhere feeling down?"

Bing Bing let out a dry laugh twice and fell silent. That night, in order to comfort her mother, she hugged a pillow and ran to Lin Nansheng's room to sleep with her. Suddenly, Lin Nansheng asked her: "Bing Bing, tell me honestly, how far have you and Xi Siyong progressed?"

Ji Shenyan's expression was unpredictable, and the emotions in his eyes were difficult to discern. After a long while, he finally said: "Cheng Bing, have you thought this through?"

I didn't do anything, did I? After you got out of the car, I just sent a message asking if you ever loved me. I just couldn't help my curiosity and said something, didn't I

Cheng Bing was still murmuring softly, and upon hearing the word 'good,' he was momentarily taken aback. Xi Siyong propped his hands on the steps behind him, his gaze still carrying a hint of provocation, and repeated, 'I said good, I will stay! But if I stay here, the Empress Dowager will still be unhappy. Are you going to accommodate the Empress Dowager and break up with me again?'

Although Zhao Xu repeatedly urged him to stay, Xi Siyong still felt embarrassed to continue bothering the Zhao family, so he moved to Shi Jingwei's place. Shi Jingwei's work hours were extremely unstable, and his residence resembled a hotel, so he did not mind Xi Siyong sleeping on the floor. However, the job search process turned out to be much more difficult than Xi Siyong had originally thought. In fact, Xi Siyong had a solid foundation during his undergraduate studies and had won several design awards, so finding a job should not have been difficult. The problem was that he was unfamiliar with the area and had missed the two best recruitment opportunities each year. Many companies had already filled their positions, and occasionally, when there were openings, they would require three to five years of work experience right from the start.

The apartment in Pudong, let someone tidy it up, and we will move in.

Xi Siyong turned around and saw Cheng Bing still standing by the door, and coldly said: "Do you have any other business?"

Hmm.

What does a future without him, one that follows the right track, look like

Now, it is necessary to think practically. Xi Siyong has already expressed her stance to the fullest extent possible. What can she use to bear such a choice from him

They walked along the flower bed with their fingers interlocked. The coastal city's breeze always carried a sticky humidity, clinging to their bodies and making them quite uncomfortable. However, they felt no difficulty at all—perhaps in the hearts of lovers, the scent of their beloved is forever unique in the world.

Just as Xi Siyong was momentarily stunned, the phone rang. After Cheng Bing hung up on Li Rui's call, Xi Siyong smiled and said, "We can still afford to support a daughter-in-law at home, and by the way, I can get you two maids, so being a young mistress is not a problem at all"

In martial arts novels, there is a term called "Zhaomen," which corresponds to the term "Achilles' heel" in the West, referring to the most vulnerable part of a person's body

With a scoff, Cheng Bing said: "When did you start to care about your reputation?"

Xi Siyong stroked his chin and beckoned her with his finger: "In my mother's hometown, for example, my aunt takes my uncle back, and the couple does not live together."

In traditional customs, Xi Siyong said earnestly, "Moreover, the two of us," as he gestured with his fingers back and forth, "isn't that right?"

Cheng Bing, having made up her mind, gave Xi Si Yong a V sign to indicate that she had everything under control and urged him to have a good conversation with her mother. After sleeping for two hours in her room, when she came downstairs again, she saw only Ji Shen Yan in the living room, sitting on the sofa reading a magazine. Cheng Bing asked, "Where is my mom?"

Zhao Xu is going to report, and Shi Jingwei conveniently gives him a ride, then takes Xi Siyong back to the bar. After finally seizing on Xi Siyong's weak point, Shi Jingwei naturally retorts sharply at him. After a couple of rounds of drinks, he hesitantly asks: "You two must have some plans, right? Are you planning to ... come over?"

It is merely a temporary setback; at most, I will endure for another two months, and then it will be time for recruitment again

No

Cheng Bing shrugged and spread his hands, saying: "For things that can be done, a decision can be made in three seconds; for things that cannot be done, thinking about them for a lifetime is of no use"

You have no idea! My mother is so stubborn. That time I only met with my father once, and she thought I was hiding it from her and wanted to be with him. She cried at home like it was the end of the world. After she finished crying in secret, she acted as if nothing had happened and refused to say anything to me—You really have no idea how worried I am that she might do something irrational again!

He meticulously combed his hair in front of the mirror, achieving a very neat hairstyle. He wished he could place every single strand exactly where it should be—nothing could be out of place. As he shook off a shiver, he surprisingly felt a sense of joy deep within.

Cheng Bing stood at the door, waving at him from a distance. He paused for half a step, then gathered his confidence and walked towards Lin Nansheng with firm strides, slightly bowing: "Aunt Lin, I apologize for the intrusion"

Clearly, it was he who called for the car to leave first, yet every minute and every second in the car felt as if an invisible force was desperately tearing his internal organs from his body—he seemed to watch in horror as his heart was ripped from his chest, crushed amidst the dazzling array of lights from the cars.

Xi Siyong turned around, casting an incredulous glance. Cheng Bing, seeing his expression, also turned her head away in frustration: "I know you are unwilling, but in reality, there are indeed many more opportunities here. Why must it be me who gives up?" She mumbled to herself, feeling that her words only made her seem ridiculous, as if she was desperately trying to follow him—what was the point of that

Xi Siyong was taken aback, quickly lowered his head to tie his shoelaces, and clumsily tied a dead knot, which made Cheng Bing laugh at him. It was then that he remembered the important matter and lowered his voice to persuade her: "Your mother is not a child; can she not understand such a simple principle? It is natural to feel sad as you are about to leave, but where in the world are there children who stay with their parents for a lifetime? When you grow up, you must leave home and become independent. Can you really stay at home forever? In our traditional customs, there is a saying called 'crying at marriage.' Does that mean that just because the family is crying, the girl will not get married?"

Was it by the lakeside at sunset, where the gently rippling waves reflected her youthful silhouette, leaving him in a state of wistfulness? Was it when he sat hidden in the audience, quietly listening to her sing "As Time Goes By"? Was it that drunken winter night, when he forgot what day it was, pulling her onto an unknown journey? Was it that rainy spring night, when he abandoned Xie Haifeng, who was building a base with him in the game, desperately searching for her in the dark streets? Or was it in the grand auditorium of the school, where she leaned against Zhao Xu with a blissful smile, causing his blood to surge uncontrollably?

Xi Siyong could not understand and asked: "What is the reason for this?"

No

Xi Siyong remained silent for several minutes, yet she felt that these few minutes were as difficult to endure as several years—one might even say it was a kind of sweet torment. She was worried about Xi Siyong's attitude, concerned about the attitudes of his parents, anxious about the future of the two of them, and feared that he might regret it if he cooled down. However, just thinking of the usually calm and composed Xi Siyong, whose only passion burned for her, and that moment when emotion replaced reason was for her, a wave of sweetness spread from the depths of her heart, sweetening her very insides.

At his words, his eyes turned cold yet warm: "Don't say it, I can't hold back anymore."

The ice fox asked with suspicion: "What is inconvenient about my home?"

Cheng Bing couldn't help but laugh out loud: "Mom, we are not in a feudal society anymore!"

Xi Siyong was taken aback for a moment, and after a while, he smiled and said: "I was afraid that someone might steal you away."

Your martial arts are unparalleled, you are invincible in the world, yet you cannot escape that fatal blow

Later, when her father heard the joke about her childishness, he bought her an identical necklace. However, she disregarded it and continued to cherish the broken necklace in the box—because that was the gift her father had originally intended for her

Yes, it is fear, not inferiority or anything else, only fear

Cheng Bing almost blurted out, asking, "What is going on with Peng Qiushasha?" The words were on the tip of her tongue but she held them back, knowing that to ask would mean admitting defeat herself. Yet, she was uncertain; could Xi Siyong's behavior today be considered a sign of his failure?

He asked casually, but Cheng Bing's heart skipped a beat. Was this a veiled invitation? She smiled nonchalantly and said, "We don't work in the same place."

I may have a moment of confusion, but I will not be confused for a month

Why

Every time I see the date prompt in the lower right corner of the computer, it feels like a countdown. They no longer have any disputes—it's hard to say why. It is often said that there are no couples who do not argue, yet when they were friends, they used to quarrel frequently, whether it was about singing Guns N' Roses or Scorpions, debating blues or heavy metal, or even arguing over whether to buy more beef tendons or more crunchy bones for a picnic. Now, however, they have become exceptionally harmonious; often, when one party shows signs of irritation, the other immediately concedes.

The two were in a standoff when they heard someone knocking at the door. It was Li Rui's voice: "Oh dear, this old minister has arrived late to the rescue, a thousand deaths cannot atone for it. Your Majesty, are you alright?"

Zhao Xu's job involves bridge design, and business trips are inevitable. According to the company's seniors, once you enter Xiangxi, it feels as deep as the sea, and one can only find joy in hardship, treating the exploration as entertainment. Cheng Bing and Xi Siyong felt sorry for him—after all, he had just found a job and was preparing to work hard for two years to marry his girlfriend, but unexpectedly, he had to go to Xiangxi so soon. Xi Siyong frowned and asked, "Do you really have to go?"

Xi Siyong stood up abruptly, pulled his frozen hand, and opened the door, saying: "Have you finished your performance?"

If your child's mother finds out, she will surely strangle me

He casually replied, "Of course not, I might as well have a daughter and name her Xi Ruobing, what a wonderful name!"

Ji Shenyan let out a long sigh, lowered his head for a while, and then said softly: "You didn't mention it at all."

After a moment of contemplation, Shi Jingwei slightly furrowed his brows and said: "It's not that I want to dampen your enthusiasm, I just feel that... this matter of yours is not very reliable"

She is now holding a hammer, unable to take action

Cheng Bing sighed softly and sat down opposite him. She knew that Xi Si Yong was just such a realistic person, that his anger would not last more than three minutes, and his heated thoughts would also last no longer than three minutes. Even in the current situation, he would not allow her to be moved for even a second, but instead, at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour, he instantly pulled her back from the dream into reality.

Upon hearing this, Xi Siyong understood that anyone who could enter a design institute must possess considerable skills. There are plenty of individuals with strong backgrounds and unmatched technical abilities. To stand out, one must rely on hard work, but it all happened too quickly: "What about my girlfriend?"

Damn it, I have said so much, who knows what you are asking about

If you want to satisfy your craving for argument, go find someone to sue, I heard you've been quite capable lately

Returning, the term "Ji Shenyan" was quite easy to say. Xi Siyong glanced at Cheng Bing, who gave him a look indicating he should agree. He pondered that Cheng Bing would want to discuss his matters with his mother on the way back, and having Ji Shenyan present would indeed be quite inconvenient

Xi Siyong had a mysterious expression on his face: "Do you remember the hot pot restaurant we often went to? The one outside Ximen."

However, if Xi Siyong regrets it, can she still mend the wound in her heart?

However, for her now, among the "rare" people and things she can grasp on her own, the one she cannot give up on is undoubtedly Xi Siyong

Xi Siyong stepped forward and said: "Shouldn't we perform well in front of the future mother-in-law?"

However, youth is ultimately not everlasting; no matter how reluctant one may be, there will always come a day of parting

You have no idea about the specific situation!" Cheng Bingxin, feeling irritated, glared at Xi Siyong for a long time before continuing, "You have no idea why my mother thinks this way!"

Just finished helping Yang's mother select vegetables

In the tranquil night, everything was quiet all around. She heard Lin Nansheng let out a long sigh: "You have no idea, when you suddenly told me this morning that you were going back with him, I was so scared... I thought your situation had reached a point where it couldn't be ignored."

Cheng Bing ignored him, and he only felt her soft lips lingering on his. Then, in his state of confusion, there came an unexpected bite. He couldn't help but tighten his arms around her: "Cheng Bing, what is wrong with you?"

"Mind your own business!" Xi Siyong said impatiently, "When did my affairs become your concern?" Although he spoke these words, he was completely uncertain inside. He did not understand why, at that moment, jealousy surged within him to the point of being uncontrollable. His self-control, which he had always prided himself on, collapsed and fell apart the instant Cheng Bing leaned against Zhao Xu's shoulder. In that fleeting moment, there was no thought of planning for the future.

After turning down three streets, the phone finally rang. I pressed the button to hang up, but it rang again. I pressed it again, and it rang once more, until I could no longer endure it. I picked up the phone and shouted angrily, "This person is dead; if you have something to say, please burn paper!" I hung up, but the other side stubbornly called again. Unable to hold back any longer, I asked, "Xi Siyong, what do you want?"

Good

He spoke in such a manner, yet he distinctly sensed that the ice had melted, and thus he too let out a sigh of relief, although there was still a hint of melancholy as he exhaled.

Early in the morning, such an inappropriate remark was made, causing Cheng Bing to laugh out loud. Upon realizing she was still nestled in his embrace, she quickly sat up straight, looking around as if pretending to be deaf and mute. It felt strange; in fact, she had not been unfamiliar with such affectionate displays with Xi Siyong in public before. However, at this moment—this intimacy seemed to carry implications of the future, and she found herself feeling somewhat embarrassed.

When the Empress has time to return, we will go to Ximen for barbecue again

During peak hours, it is difficult to purchase platform tickets. Those who are seeing off each display their ingenuity, using all their means to borrow tickets from travelers at the station to buy platform tickets, in order to accompany the last journey. "There are so many people seeing you off, and you are the only one on the train. Will you cry when we leave?" Xi Si Yong teased.

It is not necessarily the case that Zhao Xu is as sad as they are. If one wants to spend a lifetime as a technician at the bottom, waiting for retirement in peace, that is also fine. My father is not as impressive as your family patriarch; why should I go to such a remote and impoverished place to seek success?

The ice remains silent.

"Is what you said even human language?" Cheng Bing almost shouted this phrase out. Xi Siyong quickly raised his hand to signal a ceasefire, "OK, I won't say anything more. So what exactly do you want? Don't tell me that breaking up is the only option we have left?"

She was looking around at the intersection while holding the phone, when suddenly she fell into that familiar embrace. He pressed her back tightly against himself, his hands desperately pulling her closer, and her arms were painfully squeezed by him. Yet, she was infatuated with this real, visceral pain, captivated by his fervent breath and his burning gaze: "Sorry, I shouldn't have lost my temper with you just now"

Isn't that so? I am petty and small-minded, while he is magnanimous, even helping my rival by introducing him to a job

She suddenly reached out her hand to grasp his, resolutely deciding that in this lifetime, she would take a gamble, not for any other reason, but solely for the answer that Xi Siyong had given her at the last moment when he jumped into the car. She wanted to take a chance as well. She did not know how long this fervor of Xi Siyong's could last, yet she clearly understood that until now, he had never invested such thought or shown such passion for anyone else. If he could do this, why couldn't she take a bold risk?

Members of the band, along with the active participants of the later rock version, often gather for indulgent feasts at a hot pot restaurant outside Ximen. The fiery red entrance, the fiery red tables, the fiery red decorations... Of course, the most distinctive feature is the question that the waitstaff invariably asks: "Mild? Medium? Spicy? Extra spicy?"

The train station in the height of summer was bustling with people, filled with students dragging their suitcases and friends seeing them off. Everywhere, friends were seen crying in each other's arms, and the platform was filled with laughter mingled with soft sobs. Cheng Bing was almost overwhelmed as he walked onto the platform, embracing each friend who had come to see him off. Just a short distance away, what had just been a scene of joy and laughter instantly transformed into a chorus of cries as the train departed, causing a sudden unease in his heart. Xi Siyong stood beside him, continuously whispering reminders: "The water and snacks are in the bag... Don't casually eat things handed to you by others, it's okay to politely refuse and just set them aside, don't eat on the train, and be careful. ... Don't engage in idle chatter with strangers, always be cautious..."

After several years of not seeing each other, Shi Jingwei's once flowing ponytail has long since disappeared, replaced by the demeanor of a media elite in Shanghai. After Zhao Xu described Xi Siyong's revolutionary romantic sentiments, Shi Jingwei's jaw nearly dropped to the ground: "General Xi, you have also had your days, truly the cycle of heaven rewards and punishes without fail, tsk tsk..."

Upon mentioning this, Cheng Bing fell silent. Li Rui ultimately did not ask her what her intentions were. However, Zhao Xu did not have such patience; upon returning to the dormitory, he confronted Xi Siyong: "Are you serious or just playing around? Didn't we already sign the agreement?"

Xi Siyong remained silent, while Cheng Bing endured the latter half of the movie in this silence, wishing she could dig an ice hole to bury herself in once the screening was over. She hurriedly walked ahead, and Xi Siyong caught up with her, grabbing her hand and asking: "Then you must tell me, what are your own thoughts on this?"

Marriage? She was frightened by this thought. In fact, they had only been seriously considering the future for a few days, yet she was anxiously contemplating plans for the future and even for a lifetime—ultimately, it all stemmed from Xi Siyong's "momentary impulse" during the farewell that day.

So... why are you sitting here alone

Of course, it is capable; enduring in the cold cave for eighteen years, only to find that someone else has embraced the pipa.

His face was tightly drawn, and he said nothing. Cheng Bing turned his head to glance over, only to see his lips pressed into a thin line. After a long while, he finally asked: "Does your mother disagree?"

Even if she had just cursed him to choke on water a moment ago, with just one soft word from him, she would lay down her armor and be utterly defeated. Cheng Bing felt that her lifetime of reputation was ruined by this person, filled with endless reluctance: "Why are you looking for me again? You were so fierce just now!" He sealed her lips, stubbornly invading, his forceful and domineering approach contrasted with the gentle and soft words he spoke: "I shouldn't have let you cry." Cheng Bing felt that her lifetime of reputation was ruined by this person, filled with endless reluctance: "Why are you looking for me again? You were so fierce just now!" He sealed her lips, stubbornly invading, his forceful and domineering approach contrasted with the gentle and soft words he spoke: "I shouldn't have let you cry."

I am sorry

Xi Siyong gazed at the bustling street and sighed deeply, for some reason recalling a martial arts novel he had read in the past—there is a specific term in martial arts literature called "Zhaomen," which has a corresponding term in Western mythology known as "Achilles' heel."

Xi Siyong lowered his head, his hands folded, remaining silent. Cheng Bing became annoyed: "Xi Siyong, you should know when to stop. I have already admitted my mistake; what more do you want? This is not solely my fault!"

"What a mess!"

Well

This time he used an affirmative sentence, Cheng Bing held the fruit beer and said to him: "Go back and tell my mom about it."

Cheng Bing was stunned for a long time before turning his head, staring intently at Xi Siyong, who had returned: "Why are you back? I don't owe you any money."

The next day, Cheng Bing contacted Manager Lu from the Human Resources Department, who inquired in detail whether there were any shortcomings in the company. He hoped she would reconsider her decision carefully, to which Cheng Bing quickly clarified that it was indeed due to personal reasons. Manager Lu, in his early thirties, smiled after listening to her detailed explanation and said: "I still hope you will think it over carefully. From the perspective of employment opportunities, the advantages of staying local are certainly greater than those in K City, and there are relatively more opportunities and challenges. Of course, I am not encouraging you to sacrifice your relationship for your career, but I hope you and your boyfriend can think it over again to see if there is a way to have the best of both worlds. After all... times have changed, and it cannot be said that when considering family, it is always the woman who sacrifices, don't you think?"

The ice was formed at his sarcasm, yet he did not enjoy it for more than two days before the phone call of inquiry arrived, as one would naturally assume, from the two elders of the Xi family. She watched as Xi Siyong took a phone call for half an hour without saying more than three sentences, his face still wearing a lifeless expression. Only after hanging up the phone did he anxiously ask: "Is your dad particularly angry?"

Upon introspection, can he guarantee that what he promises to Cheng Bing is a future that can rival this villa nestled by the mountains and water?

Xi Siyong finally revealed a faint smile, pursing his lips in a suppressed laugh. Cheng Bing, on the other hand, was worried that the elderly members of the Xi family would not agree, feeling a mix of hope and anxiety—never did he expect that Xi Siyong would truly be willing to give up his stable job for this, which was akin to suddenly transitioning from great sorrow to immense joy in life

Coldly glancing sideways, Xi Si Yong quickly set aside trivial matters and got to the point: "During the summer vacation last year, I saw my father cleaning out boxes and he came across this bottle of medicine, about this high," he indicated a height of 10 centimeters. "I remember he had sorted out this medicine bottle several times, so I asked him what it was. To my surprise, my father suddenly became very emotional, pulled me aside, and earnestly said to me: 'Son, this is a family heirloom. When you get married, I will pass it on to you—look at the sacrifices I have made for our family, to ensure that you do not become an orphan or a widow!"

Cheng Bing felt a sense of embarrassment at his mother's astonishing imagination and quickly assured her that although the current social atmosphere is open, she is still relatively cautious in this regard. Moreover, she at least has some common sense regarding safety. Only then did Lin Nansheng feel relieved and reminded her to handle the signed tripartite agreement properly, trying to avoid any conflicts with the company.

I wonder what I will be like when I am twenty-seven years old

Are you here to tell me the answer

Zhao Xu and Li Rui stood by the door, resembling two door gods, gazing at each other for a long time. Finally, Zhao Xu could no longer contain himself and burst into uncontrollable laughter, his shoulders shaking: "What performance are you two putting on today?"

Xi Siyong chuckled and said: "Then I must go live at A Xu's house. If I were to live at your home, would your mother feel at ease? Moreover, even if your mother felt at ease, I wouldn't feel at ease myself"

What kind of situation is it

However, Cheng Bing is unable to comprehend this pressure at all, simply believing that her mother would also like everything she enjoys. She is exceptionally astute in other matters, yet she cannot see her mother clearly; perhaps it is not that she cannot see, but rather that her love runs too deep

Make a phone call to follow up

Damn it, what a sentimental day it is today, yet I smile and say: "If I were to say it, wouldn't you take a knife and stab me with a couple of holes?"

Xi Siyong forced a smile for a while, then sighed helplessly: "When I was in school, I thought I was really impressive, with teachers protecting me in the department and supporters in the band, feeling like I was the best in the world." After a moment of silence, he continued, "Once I stepped out into the real world, I realized that in fact, I am nothing at all."

Ji Shenyan's tone sounded strange, and Cheng Bing let out a laugh, saying: "Why does it sound so sour?"

What are you doing, testing me, making me jealous? Can't you choose someone else?" Xi Siyong had a look of utter incomprehension on his face, "What have I done to wrong you?"

Xisiyong's expression was already hesitant, and upon hearing him say this, he remained silent for a long time. Then, Shi Jingwei asked again, "Is it true or not?"

Li Rui took out his phone and called Xi Siyong: "Siyong, where are you? How much longer will it take?"

"Why would I lie to you?" Xi Siyong pointed at her chin, "My mother has a temper just like yours." Before the words had finished, Cheng Bing retorted, "Do I have a bad temper? I have a very good temper!" "Yes, yes, yes, your temper is quite good, just occasionally throwing a little tantrum, okay?" Only then did Cheng Bing relent. Xi Siyong thought to herself, your temper is indeed quite good; you threw a water bottle at me the first time we met, and the fact that I didn't end up bleeding is really quite impressive. Yet she smiled and said, "My mother is the same way, she only occasionally has a fight with my father." Xi Siyong thought to herself, your temper is indeed quite good; you threw a water bottle at me the first time we met, and the fact that I didn't end up bleeding is really quite impressive. Yet she smiled and said, "My mother is the same way, she only occasionally has a fight with my father."

Xi Siyong silently sent his regards to Jin Yong and several of his female elders. Cheng Bing curled up in his arms, her cheerful voice tinged with a hint of tremor: "Will you forget me in the future?"

The stubbornness of the ice formed suddenly arose: "I want to take care of my mother, is this reason too excessive?"

He glanced at her with indifference, too lazy to pay her any mind, while pacing around the room with his phone in hand

Looking up, the starry sky remains as brilliant as ever, with streetlights and stars in the sky flickering alternately. On the distant road, car lights stretch into a long curtain of light—yet who knows whether the person sitting in the car is crying or laughing? People are always greedy; she originally thought that as long as he had even a tiny bit of love for her, she would chase after him to the ends of the earth like those moths drawn to the flame. However, when he shows even a hint of affection, she hopes he cares for her a little more, a little more, and even more—when young, the measure of love is often sacrifice; whoever is willing to sacrifice a little more loves a little more.

Mom, I am serious. I hope you accept him

No matter how hard you try to cover it up and deceive the world, you cannot deceive your own vulnerabilities

My mother has been in a rather bad mood these past few days. She hasn't said much to me, but I can tell. Cheng Bing sighed and said, "I thought she was just a little sad, but... yesterday my second aunt called me, and I found out that my mother thinks I want to go back with you because I can't stand this place, can't stand this family.

How would I know if you don't tell me

"Indeed," Ji Shenyan raised his head and said with a serious expression, "You made me fall from heaven to hell in just one day, and you won't even allow me to indulge in a moment's pleasure?"

A series of small design firms picked at him like selecting cabbage in a market, either complaining about his lack of formal work experience or only considering local residents. Just when his confidence was at its lowest, a headhunter introduced him to an engineering consulting company that called him for an interview. The company holds a Class A design qualification and is capable of undertaking high-level engineering projects. After two rounds of interviews, he surprisingly received a prompt response asking when he could start working—three months ago, such a position would have seemed trivial to him, but now he felt as if he had won the lottery.

After the driver placed the frozen luggage in the trunk, Ji Shenyin asked Xi Siyong, "Shall we take a taxi back?"

Could you please refrain from speaking in such a sarcastic manner, Xi Siyong

Lin Nansheng turned his face and seemed to be pondering: "So what you mean is..."

Is it true? Soon, Cheng Bing understood that Xi Siyong meant that their family was also having a hard time with this matter

He simply muttered a sentence, and as the ice melted, he grumbled, "Who told you to say that about my mom!"

All my anxieties instantly cooled down, turning to ice as I despondently said: "It is my own consideration, I think... we may not be suitable to be together after all."

It doesn't matter, I sent him a text this morning. Since I am already here, I definitely want to go see him. It is convenient for the two of us men to stay together

Bite a little harder, and you will remember more deeply

"These words are yours, so don't you dare regret it!" Xi Siyong declared fiercely, reaching out to hail a taxi and rushing inside. Cheng Bing was so furious that his hands and feet trembled, and he shouted at the green taxi that had disappeared into the roaring traffic: "If I regret it, I'll take your surname!"

She nodded, and Lin Nansheng smiled and sighed: "Then why didn't you make a decision earlier and only tell me now? Are you trying to give me a surprise?"

However, the next thing he said was: "I left my wallet with Li Rui."

Marriage is a matter concerning two families

Xi Siyong shook his head

The prolonged silence made her want to hide away and cry her heart out

Xi Siyong's expression was calm, and he said nothing. Cheng Bing suddenly felt as if she had been doused with a bucket of cold water—many of her prepared considerations were now rendered useless. She had thought that he would at least inquire about the reasons, but it now seemed that her enthusiasm was one-sided. If, for Xi Siyong, her return to City K was merely an embellishment, what could she expect him to do?

I am in the car

There was a moment of silence on the phone, and then Li Rui heard Cheng Bing's voice: "He is on the train"

Graduation has always been a peak period for confessions of love, as well as for breakups. Even the most intense love can seem pale and powerless in the face of reality. A better job offer, a rare household registration, or even an opportunity to purchase an affordable housing unit can all become reasons for a breakup. The reasoning is quite simple—there are countless eligible men and women in the world, but good jobs are not guaranteed every year. People as fortunate as Zhao Xu are indeed in the minority. As soon as Zhao Xu finished his defense, he hurried home to find his girlfriend, while Li Rui remained at school, idly passing the days. Cheng Bing privately asked Cui Yan, "Isn't it a problem for Li Rui to just hang around at school like this?" Cui Yan shook her head helplessly, offering no response.

A storm has turned into a rainbow again, and at the crossroads of time, he cooked a bowl of noodles for her. They bumped heads while fighting over half a bowl of soup, and in the end, he embraced her once more. She always felt that Xi Siyong would eventually crush her bones—she sensed that he was afraid of something. However, apart from apologizing and kissing her, he refused to say another word. She was unwilling to live in fear any longer, so she held his face and asked, "Xi Siyong, what are you afraid of?"

Xi Siyong briefly explained to his father but did not dare to tell him that he had come to pursue his girlfriend—if this were to reach the ears of relatives and friends, it would likely become a source of laughter for several years. He thought this matter could be approached gradually.

No, "" said Bing with a frown, pretending to be angry, "Are you questioning my judgment?"

The intentions of Sima Zhao are known to all, and even a blind person can see the little feelings Ji Shenyan has for you. Do not pretend to be confused with me!

Upon entering the house and having exchanged only a few words, Lin Nansheng urged Cheng Bing to go upstairs and catch up on sleep. Cheng Bing understood that she wanted to personally oversee the situation, assessing whether Xi Siyong was up to standard. On the way back, Cheng Bing had already informed her mother of her intention to give up the current offer and return to City K to seek employment. She omitted the details of the journey, merely stating that the two had originally planned to go their separate ways upon graduation, which was why they had not explicitly communicated this to their families. Now, she realized that she did not want to part ways. Lin Nansheng was slightly surprised but did not oppose her decision. After a long silence, she asked, "You had previously mentioned wanting to rely on your own efforts for two years to see what kind of achievements you could make... If you return to City K, the environment and opportunities may not be as good as here. Have you thought this through?"

Close friends naturally worry about their future matters, but when the parties involved seem indifferent, it is not appropriate to continue to concern oneself with such trivialities for others

With a loud bang, the door was locked in ice. Leaning against the door, biting her lip, she murmured, "I didn't expect your reaction to be so intense"

Cheng Bing loosened his grip on his neck and sat down, the shocking sound effects in the screening room rolled in, yet Xi Siyong felt an overwhelming silence. Cheng Bing remained silent, and in his world, there was only a terrifying stillness. After a long while, Cheng Bing finally spoke softly: "Siyong, I want... I cannot go back to City K with you."

"My mother has a good impression of you," Cheng Bing said with great ambition, "I am my mother's only daughter, so you can rest assured that whatever I like, she will agree to."

These two characters are truly marvelous. Especially when a prefix is added before them: their future

Lin Nansheng came to pick her up with Ji Shenyin. Upon seeing her come out holding Xi Siyong's hand, he was slightly surprised and smiled, saying, "Why didn't you give us a heads up?"

Cheng Bing tilted his head in contemplation and asked, "Si Siyong, do you have any objections to my mother?"

Architectural Design Institute

Xi Siyong hesitated slightly and said: "Cheng Bing plans to return to City K with me"

The heavy stone that had been pressing on his heart for several months finally fell, and Xi Siyong felt confident enough to negotiate with his father. However, before he could say more than three sentences on the phone, the call was abruptly ended. Cheng Bing cautiously asked, "Is your mom still going to beat you?" Xi Siyong smirked and replied, "If he really changed the lock, I won't be let in when I go back."

Cheng Bing smiled with her lips pressed together, feeling an indescribable beauty in her heart. Along the way, her words were sweet, and Lin Nansheng shook his head and sighed: "Indeed, raising a daughter is a losing business; I have never heard you say so many good things in my life!"

He noncommittally uttered a sound, and outside the window, the towering buildings of the city had transformed into a vast expanse of lake, while on the other side, a golf course was enclosed by a barbed-wire fence. In the distance, the flowers were blooming profusely, and among the dark pines and cypress trees, the black eaves could be faintly discerned. A peculiar feeling began to arise within him—he had always known that Cheng Bing came from a good family, but he had never imagined it was to such an extent.

The two individuals appeared extremely awkward, and even someone as unflappable as Xi Siyong found it difficult to speak with confidence. The matter concluded with Xi Siyong treating everyone to a lavish meal at the Three Kingdoms Hot Pot City, where he consumed quite a bit of alcohol. However, both individuals remained resolute, refusing to yield, and no one could do anything to them. Various bizarre versions of the story circulated around the campus, with some claiming that the beautiful ice princess caused a rift between the brothers, while others suggested that Xi Siyong had a sudden change of heart and repented. Of course, there were also some rather unpleasant remarks, which they had always chosen to ignore.

Perhaps his opponent is not Ji Shenyin, but rather the most shrewd mother of Cheng Bing.

She watched Xi Siyong make a phone call, apologizing to someone for his earlier outburst during the performance. After finishing the call, he maintained the same posture while looking out the window for a long time—though it may not have been that long, it just felt prolonged to her because she had no idea what Xi Siyong was thinking during that time. Later, when they brought up the matter, he said: "I had rehearsed in my mind countless times the way you would say you wanted to break up, but I never expected it to be like this"

Xi Siyong spent half an hour grooming himself in the morning. Cheng Bing estimated that those waiting in line behind him must have been frustrated with his vanity. Upon returning to his seat, he even asked Cheng Bing for a small makeup mirror. Cheng Bing raised an eyebrow and said, "Do you take this long every morning?"

My father's current state is probably akin to being in a frenzy..." Xi Siyong helplessly chuckled a couple of times at her, saying, "I mentioned that the contract termination procedures have been completed, and my father said he would immediately call a locksmith to change the locks.

Now he is uncertain again, a certain ominous premonition in his mind is growing stronger. If possible, he truly wishes that this is merely his overthinking.

Is there anything wrong with Xi Siyong

They never dared to contemplate such a proposition; they originally had no future. As the poem states: "You and I meet on the sea of night, you have your direction and I have mine." It was originally thought that they were merely grasping the tail of youth, seizing the last moment of fireworks, and burning brightly to the fullest—who would have ever imagined there would be a future?

However, Xi Siyong has truly left. Cheng Bing squatted down, sitting on the small steps of the flower bed, crying out loud—why shouldn't I cry? I will cry, she thought resentfully. After all, it is a broken relationship; why should I still maintain my composure and rationality?

As for the industrial sector, most individuals tend to be relatively low-key, and those who are more active do so within their own circles. Although my exposure has been limited, Cheng Bing's mother is quite well-known, adept in social interactions and widely recognized. Without her, Nansheng Electronics would certainly not have achieved its current scale. Do you think the Iron Lady of the Bund would allow her only daughter to return with you to find a job as a small white-collar worker and live such a life? Sooner or later, she would have to come back, right? Your family is also quite reputable over there; perhaps you could consider marrying in later on.

With a sense of helplessness, Cheng Bing could not resist Xi Siyong, and had no choice but to contact Zhao Xu. Naturally, Zhao Xu seized the opportunity to mock them mercilessly. Zhao Xu came to pick up Xi Siyong and, while at the Cheng family dinner, Lin Nansheng, having eaten little, sighed after putting down his chopsticks: "In the blink of an eye, you have all graduated; I can no longer pretend to be young."

Xi Siyong's brows were deeply furrowed, as if he found it difficult to make a decision. His heart, which had just begun to warm up, felt anxious again upon seeing his expression—Xi Siyong's original plan was to reside in City K for a long time. According to his previous words, living like this for a lifetime was not necessarily a bad thing.

Buried in ice, he asked in a muffled voice: "Why can't you stay?"