Who Would Fall in Love After Being Reborn

Chapter 13: Graduation Reunion

TL: Etude

At the same time that Jiang Qin was out enjoying food and fun with Feng Nanshu, in the city center, at Hall One of the Longwei Hotel.

Members of Class 2, Grade 3, were arriving one after another, taking their seats.

This reunion was initiated by Qin Zi’ang, who had insisted on the best private room and ordered the finest banquet.

In those days, teenagers whose values were not yet fully formed tended to emulate their parents in learning how to behave and conduct themselves. Qin Zi’ang’s father was a real estate developer, which meant that from a young age, Qin Zi’ang had already adopted the air of a high-value man. He had slicked-back hair, wore a suit, and sported a gold watch on his wrist.

“Ladies and gentlemen, three years of high school may seem short or long, but I feel honored to have had the opportunity to be in the same class as all of you,” he began.

“Starting today, we are adults. So, I propose that we all raise a toast. No one is allowed to drink soft drinks, only alcohol, because what we are toasting today is not just alcohol, but maturity.”

“I once wrote in my QQ space, ‘Drink to my life of upheaval and wandering, drink to my lifetime of solitude and loneliness.’ With this drink, I’ll lead the toast.”

Qin Zi’ang raised his glass and downed the beer in one gulp.

Imitating his father’s business-like demeanor at the dining table, he turned his glass upside down to show that not a drop was left.

The hall erupted in applause at this display.

“Qin, you really don’t act like a student at all. Every move you make is so mature.”

“Yeah, compared to you, we seem so childish.”

“Zi’ang is definitely going to be an elite once he enters society. He’s so cool.”

“‘Drink to my life of upheaval and wandering, drink to my lifetime of solitude and loneliness.’ This is the most domineering personal signature I’ve ever seen.”

Qin Zi’ang modestly waved his hand, saying he was just expressing his feelings, and quietly glanced at Chu Siqi sitting across from him.

Peacocks spread their feathers to attract the opposite sex, and high school students pretend to be mature for the same reason.

2008 was the peak era for non-mainstream culture, and non-mainstream quotes were also very popular. Qin Zi’ang felt that he indeed had a regal air, so he always kept a slight smile on his lips.

However, Chu Siqi seemed uninterested, her expression indifferent.

She was looking at her phone, worried because Jiang Qin hadn’t arrived. His QQ avatar was also grayed out, which made her wonder if he even knew about the reunion.

Just then, the door of the private room was pushed open by a plump hand. Guo Zihang hurried in, apologizing as he explained that he had gone to the wrong place and had taken a while to find the right one.

“Hey, Guo Zihang, why did you come alone? Didn’t Jiang Qin come with you?”

“Oh, he’s doing business. He’s been really busy recently, so he’s not coming.”

Guo Zihang had initially wanted to spill the beans about Jiang Qin going out with a girl, but for some reason, he changed his story at the last moment.

Hearing this, Chu Siqi bit her lip and clenched her fists under the table.

Since their last encounter on Central Street, she had been waiting for Jiang Qin to regret it and come to her, begging for another chance.

But in a blink of an eye, a week had passed, and not only had he shown no signs of regret, but he hadn’t even sent her a single QQ message.

She felt that Jiang Qin had really changed, becoming nonchalant. Before, he couldn’t stand not talking to her for even half a day, but now he could endure a whole week.

Thinking about this made her frustrated.

The Jiang Qin who used to be so accommodating had changed so much.

She had only wanted what was best for him, always thinking of him and even encouraging him…

She hadn’t wanted to come to this reunion at first, as Chu Siqi didn’t like this kind of atmosphere. But she wanted to see if Jiang Qin was as indifferent as he claimed to be.

In her mind, Jiang Qin must be suffering greatly, and upon seeing her, he would surely apologize.

But to her surprise, Jiang Qin, fully aware of the reunion, didn’t even show up.

“Jiang Qin is doing business?” Qin Zi’ang looked at Guo Zihang, a hint of surprise on his face.

“Yeah.”

“He’s running a business? Like opening a store?”

Chu Siqi regained her composure and then chuckled, “He doesn’t have that kind of capability. He’s just selling boxed lunches on Central Street. Huiru and I saw him there when we were shopping last time.”

“Ha? Selling boxed lunches is now considered doing business?” Qin Zi’ang laughed, his expression showing a hint of disdain, although he didn’t say much more.

The other classmates couldn’t help but snicker, feeling relieved that Jiang Qin hadn’t attended the reunion, as it would have been embarrassing.

Although it’s said that no profession is inferior, even Kong Yiji couldn’t shed his long gown. These high school students naturally looked down upon low-end jobs. In their eyes, as prospective college students, they were the talents of society, the pillars of the nation. Selling boxed lunches was seen as something shameful.

Guo Zihang wanted to curse upon hearing this.

‘My bro Jiang made 650,000 yuan just like that today, do you even know?

‘My bro Jiang is a regular at the foot massage place, can you do that?’

But he didn’t utter these words, remembering something Jiang Qin had said to him just two days ago: some people laugh at you not because of what you’ve done, but because they just want to laugh at you.

Damn, was Brother Jiang hinting at something?

Was he really so prescient?

Damn, he really is like a father to me!

But as Guo Zihang thought about it, he suddenly glanced at Chu Siqi sitting across from him. He had always thought of her as a goddess, untouchable and perfect. But today, that illusion seemed to be shattered. A goddess who speaks ill of others behind their backs, is she still a goddess?

It seemed there was a reason why Jiang Qin had turned away that day.

However, while Guo Zihang wanted to keep the peace, the others weren’t so keen on dropping the topic of Jiang Qin.

Besides Wang Huiru, Chu Siqi had another close friend, Yu Shasha, who was always a bit sarcastic. Upon hearing Jiang Qin’s name, she immediately jumped into the conversation.

“Right, Siqi, didn’t Jiang Qin confess his feelings for you on the last day of the college entrance exams?”

Chu Siqi became angry just remembering that day: “Don’t mention that day, it just makes me angry. He failed in his confession and then took back his love letter, even claiming he didn’t really like me. It made it seem like I was deluding myself. What kind of person does that?”

Yu Shasha pursed her lips: “He must have realized he couldn’t win you over and was afraid of losing face and being ridiculed, so he stubbornly denied everything.”

“Yes, Huiru said the same thing.”

“Maybe it’s the same today.”

“What do you mean?” Chu Siqi’s eyes flashed with confusion.

“He knew he would be ridiculed, so he didn’t dare to come today,” Yu Shasha said while pouring herself some water.

Hearing this, Chu Siqi’s furrowed brows suddenly relaxed.

Right, how could she not have thought of that possibility? Jiang Qin wasn’t really indifferent; he just didn’t want to be ridiculed. He wasn’t actually uninterested in seeing her; he was just afraid.

Hmph, serves him right.

He deserved it for treating her that way. Let him suffer a bit and see who will end up regretting and crying in the future.

Chu Siqi’s pride surged, and she clenched her small teeth together tightly.

Just then, the door of the private room was pushed open again, and Wang Huiru hurried in, apologizing just like Guo Zihang had.

“Sorry, I got held up on the way. What were you all talking about?”

“We were talking about Jiang Qin. He was afraid of being embarrassed, so he didn’t come. Isn’t that funny?”

Upon hearing this, Wang Huiru’s expression froze, and even her movement to sit down paused.

The reason she was late was actually that she had run into Jiang Qin outside.

And she didn’t just run into Jiang Qin…

Chapter 14: He Already Has a Girlfriend

TL: Etude

Wang Huiru was a person who had a great sense of time, which was evident from her tenure as the mathematics class representative for three consecutive years. Therefore, she arrived at Longwei Hotel quite early, even earlier than Qin Zi’ang, the host of the gathering.

Instead of going straight to the hotel, she strolled around the vicinity.

That’s when she spotted Jiang Qin.

At that moment, Jiang Qin was standing at the entrance of a snack shop, holding a black backpack in one hand and playfully touching the paw of a tabby cat perched on a freezer with the other.

Wang Huiru thought he was also there for the gathering and approached him to say hello, asking when he had arrived.

To her surprise, during their conversation, Jiang Qin mentioned that he had no intention of attending the gathering.

Wang Huiru, a well-behaved student highly regarded by teachers, with a strong sense of responsibility, felt that since their classmates would soon go their separate ways, the opportunities for gatherings were dwindling. She decided to persuade him to join.

“You’re already here, why not just join us for a meal?”

“Never mind, it’s fine without me. I don’t really like bustling environments,” Jiang Qin replied while playing with the cat’s paws.

Suddenly, Wang Huiru remembered an incident from a few days ago. “Are you avoiding the gathering because you’re embarrassed about your failed confession, fearing that everyone will laugh at you? That won’t happen. Our class has a good atmosphere, and you’re well-liked, too.”

“It’s already graduation; we’ll all go our separate ways. Let them laugh. Who hasn’t faced rejection? It’s not a big deal to me, but that’s not the reason I’m not attending.”

“Why not, then?”

Wang Huiru persisted with her questions, but before Jiang Qin could respond, a voice came from inside the snack shop.

“Jiang Qin, I want these colorful crystal beads.”

Crystal beads?

Upon hearing this, Jiang Qin seemed bewildered, and a thought involuntarily crossed his mind.

What the hell are crystal beads? Aren’t those just soaked soybeans?

“You can’t eat that! Miss, not everything in a snack shop is edible!”

Jiang Qin dashed into the shop, shouting as he went.

Wang Huiru, hearing a girl’s voice, curiously followed inside and saw a girl in a floral dress, with long hair reaching her waist, a slender figure, and a radiant beauty. It was Feng Nanshu.

Feng Nanshu, the top student of the entire school for three years, a quiet and reserved lady of a wealthy family, stunningly beautiful.

Wang Huiru’s eyes widened in surprise as she watched Jiang Qin snatch a box from Feng Nanshu’s hand and carefully examine her mouth, concern evident on his face.

What was going on?

Was Jiang Qin dating Feng Nanshu?

Were they skipping the gathering because they had a date planned?

The image she had just witnessed left Wang Huiru in shock, unable to calm her emotions. Meanwhile, their classmates were still mocking Jiang Qin, oblivious to the fact that he had already won the heart of the most sought-after girl in Chengnan High School.

She didn’t know what to say.

“Has Jiang Qin contacted you recently?” Wang Huiru, regaining her composure, turned to ask Chu Siqi.

“Why would he contact me? Even if he did, I wouldn’t pay him any attention,” Chu Siqi replied, furrowing her brows.

“Do you know what he’s been up to lately?”

“I just heard from Guo Zihang; he’s probably still selling boxed lunches.”

Wang Huiru fell silent, realizing her best friend knew nothing about Jiang Qin’s situation. “Siqi, are you still waiting for Jiang Qin to apologize?”

Biting her lip, Chu Siqi replied, “Yes, I’ve been waiting a long time, but he’s so stubborn, he hasn’t even sent me a message on QQ.”

“Do you think he’s just holding back?”

“Otherwise, what? He used to chat with me every day. Sometimes, when I was in a bad mood, I would bluntly tell him he’s annoying, but he never seemed to mind. Now, he’s just putting on this cool facade. Isn’t that just him holding back?”

Wang Huiru was in a dilemma, unsure whether to reveal what she had just witnessed. “Siqi, I want to ask you seriously, do you like Jiang Qin?”

Chu Siqi looked at her emotionlessly. “How could I like someone who’s driving me insane?”

“But from my perspective, Jiang Qin has moved on from you, yet you can’t seem to get him out of your mind.”

“That’s because he went too far, leaving me with these lingering thoughts. I won’t forgive him unless he apologizes a hundred times!”

Wang Huiru whispered a question, audible only to the two of them: “How would you feel if Jiang Qin was with someone else?”

Chu Siqi laughed coldly. “What does it matter to me who he’s with? But you’re right, he couldn’t get me, so it makes sense he’d give up and settle for someone else.”

“…”

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing, let’s just eat.”

After hearing her friend’s response, Chu Siqi picked up her chopsticks and poked at the food on her plate, but she found she had no appetite.

She was really annoyed.

She couldn’t understand why Jiang Qin couldn’t see her efforts. In this world, no girl falls for a guy just because he pursues her. She hadn’t been completely unapproachable; she even hinted that there might be a chance if he persisted. Wasn’t that enough?

She really wanted to see Jiang Qin regretting his actions, but it never happened, which was probably why she was so frustrated.

As the gathering neared its end, Chu Siqi had been chatting with Wang Huiru, then adopted an aloof demeanor, preventing Qin Zi’ang from finding an opportunity to speak to her. He suggested they stroll nearby, hoping for another chance to get closer.

Wang Huiru was actually quite nervous. She was genuinely worried about Chu Siqi running into Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu.

She knew her best friend’s character all too well: capricious and proud, expecting the world to revolve around her.

If she saw Jiang Qin with Feng Nanshu, Wang Huiru had no idea what might happen.

Luckily, her worries were somewhat unnecessary. Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu didn’t cross their paths, although Qin Zi’ang kept trying to get close to them, which was quite bothersome.

Meanwhile, in a snack street not far from the city center.

Feng Nanshu, holding a large pack of Xizhilang jelly, looked up at Jiang Qin after taking a few bites. “Do you like looking at breasts?”

“?????”

“You looked at my chest fifteen… no, sixteen times today.”

Jiang Qin twitched his mouth, thinking to himself that although she was naturally dense, her directness was quite unexpected. “I was just appreciating it.”

Feng Nanshu pointed to a shop across the street. “Jiang Qin, what is an adult product?”

“That’s something only adults should know about!”

“My birthday is February 3rd. Legally, I’m an adult now.”

“You call this being an adult? Your understanding of the world isn’t even that of an eight-year-old.”

Feng Nanshu staggered slightly, her eyes filled with despair. “Your words really hurt.”

Jiang Qin laughed. “Don’t worry, there’s still a long summer vacation ahead. You have time to learn.”

Chapter 15: Demolition in Progress

TL: Etude

Time flew by quickly in the following days, like a swift horse passing through a gap.

On June 25th, the results of the college entrance exam were released, stirring the hearts of countless families.

Jiang Qin’s score was exactly the same as in his previous life: 653 points (TL: Considered good; 750 is highest). Admission into a top university was a certainty, leaving no room for doubt. He felt very calm about it, but had to show enough excitement in front of his parents, which was quite a test of his acting skills.

Mr. Jiang and Mrs. Yuan were truly thrilled.

653 points!

This score was 20 points higher than Jiang Qin’s mock exam results!

Mrs. Yuan Youqin immediately went to Baiyun Mountain to burn incense and fulfill her vows at Baiyun Temple.

Comrade Jiang Zhenghong was so overjoyed that he could hardly contain himself. He paced restlessly, his fists clenched and shaking, and eventually took Jiang Qin downstairs to run three full laps around the neighborhood.

Jiang Qin understood his parents’ feelings well. In their generation’s view, the college entrance exam was a springboard to success, a major turning point in life, the only opportunity to change one’s destiny, and a stepping stone to glory and wealth.

But what he couldn’t have anticipated was that in a few years, the world would be teeming with PhDs and overrun with Masters.

Three days after the announcement of the exam results, the demolition process began to take shape.

On the morning of June 28th, the offices of Fanhuali, Rongcheng, Xingfu Community, and Hongyun Community called Jiang Qin, briefly discussing the demolition and inviting him to a meeting with the special demolition team.

Although the official demolition documents had not yet been made public, the demolition was almost a foregone conclusion.

To save time, all the streets affected by the old town renovation project began early preparations.

This was not a widely publicized matter.

In fact, apart from the homeowners of the buildings to be demolished, no one else knew about it, which saved Jiang Qin a lot of trouble.

In the following days, Jiang Qin went back and forth between the street offices, listening to the higher-ups’ directives and compensation clauses, which he had heard many times.

Even though the information from each street office was repetitive, it was still thrilling to hear each time.

Once the official demolition notice was issued, the process entered the negotiation phase.

This stage was almost the most time-consuming, as many people were greedy, especially the residents who had lived in old and decrepit houses for many years. Their lives were not satisfactory, so they wanted to ask for as much compensation as possible.

However, Jiang Qin knew when to stop.

He proposed a figure to the street offices based on the highest estimated compensation ratio and told them to call him if they agreed.

His relaxed attitude stemmed from an important reason: during the second phase of the demolition, those who signed the contract first could choose their resettlement houses early, and selecting a good location was far more important than haggling over an extra thirty or fifty thousand yuan.

If negotiations dragged on and all the good locations were chosen, what would the remaining people do?

Sorry, they would have to draw lots.

The contracts were already signed; no one would cater to these latecomers.

Additionally, he had an urgent reason.

He needed to repay a debt.

Although the money for buying the house was borrowed from Feng Nanshu, it was still her father’s money. The fact that nothing had gone wrong so far meant her father hadn’t noticed yet, but the longer he delayed, the higher the risk. Jiang Qin didn’t know what kind of person Feng Nanshu’s father was, so he didn’t want to take the risk.

Getting the compensation early and filling the gap would make it as if nothing had ever happened.

After dealing with the preliminary demolition matters, Jiang Qin took a day off to relax at home, responding to various messages on QQ.

Guo Zihang said he scored 472, while Feng Nanshu announced she got 671.

Guo Zihang’s score wasn’t surprising; that was simply his level of ability. Scoring even a point higher would have been difficult for him. However, Feng Nanshu, known as a genius and a top student, scoring below 700 was quite unexpected.

Of course, the class teacher also couldn’t accept this score and believed there must have been a mistake. He went to the city to check the papers on the day the results were released.

However, there was no mistake; it was indeed 671. The problem was with the Chinese essay. Out of a possible 60 points, Feng Nanshu only scored 12.

What was this year’s essay topic again?

Jiang Qin, having been reborn, had almost forgotten this memory. So, he went online to check and couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

An essay on friendship?

She didn’t even have friends, and she was asked to write about friendship?

Wasn’t that like asking a mouse to write about its experiences in cat-petting?

Not a bad result, really. The 12 points were probably just for neat handwriting.

“Stop laughing,” said Feng Nanshu.

Sitting in their usual spot on the second floor of the Jizhou City Library, Feng Nanshu looked utterly dejected. “I’ve thought about it, and this is actually your fault.”

Jiang Qin was puzzled. “We didn’t even know each other during the exams. How are your lost points my fault?”

“But if I had known you earlier, maybe I would have been able to write something.”

“Since you say that, let’s assume for a moment you’re taking the exams now. How would you write this essay?”

Feng Nanshu raised her head solemnly: “I met a friend in the library. He’s a poor guy who loves looking at… ”

“Stop!”

Jiang Qin interrupted her impromptu essay. “Is that really how you see me?”

“Isn’t it…?” Feng Nanshu’s eyes flickered with confusion.

“If you really wrote that, you wouldn’t even get the last twelve points.”

Feng Nanshu hung her head low, returning to her state of despair. “Did I make friends with someone I can’t be proud of?”

Jiang Qin’s face twitched. “Anyway, the exams are over. There’s no use thinking about this now.”

“That makes sense…”

“As a little rich lady like you, why did you even bother with the college entrance exam? Why not just study abroad?”

Feng Nanshu lifted her head, her delicate, curly eyelashes quivering. “A lonely girl who can’t socialize would die if sent abroad.”

Jiang Qin hadn’t considered this. He had simply thought of her as an ordinary rich girl. But from Feng Nanshu’s perspective, studying abroad was indeed a precarious idea.

Foreign countries constantly promote freedom and democracy, but the social environment is chaotic. There’s the so-called land of liberty, America, with shootings every day. Despite having a population of only 370 million, there are 390 million registered firearms. That’s an average of four guns for a family of three. Are they preparing for a second child? (TL: Damn author roasting the US of A)

Sending someone like Feng Nanshu, naturally naive and socially anxious, into such an environment would be like throwing a lamb into a wolf pack.

“It doesn’t matter anymore. Actually, universities here are pretty good too. Which one are you planning to attend?”

“Where are you going?”

She asked back expressionlessly, her dense eyelashes turning golden in the scattered sunlight.Chapter 16: My Business Has Nothing to Do With You

TL: Etude

In his past life, Jiang Qin was a student at Linchuan University, majoring in International Trade. Therefore, in this life, he still chose to go to Linchuan, as he was already very familiar with the city.

Starting a business in a familiar city would be easier and more efficient.

Hearing Jiang Qin’s answer, Feng Nanru rubbed her face, then stared blankly at the snack bag she had just been showing off, lost in thought.

At that moment, the Nokia phone on the table flickered. Jiang Qin unlocked it to find a QQ message from Wang Huiru.

“Jiang Qin, Chu Siqi scored 632, what about you?”

“Did she send you to ask me?”

“Alright, you guessed right, she did ask me to.”

“My business is none of her concern. Just tell her that,” Jiang Qin typed out on the physical keyboard and hit send.

Wang Huiru was stunned: “Jiang Qin, you and Chu Siqi don’t have any deep grudges, right? It’s normal for classmates to ask about each other’s scores. Don’t always be like this.”

“What am I like?”

“Petty!”

Jiang Qin’s typing grew more fluent: “If being petty is what it takes, then so be it. Let her think what she wants.”

Wang Huiru sent an ellipsis: “Jiang Qin, Chu Siqi did nothing wrong. She has the right to reject you, but even if you can’t be lovers, you can still be friends.”

“Is it my fault? Choosing not to cling is also my right, okay? I don’t want to be her friend.”

“Why not?”

Jiang Qin switched to one-handed typing: “She thinks the whole world should love her, that everyone should cater to her whims. Whatever she says goes, and if she says go east, you better not go west. I can’t stand such a friend; it’s really annoying.”

Wang Huiru was silent for a while: “I know Siqi is a bit proud, but isn’t that part of her charm?”

“Being a bit proud is fine, but she crosses the line. Like that day on Central Street, she ordered me not to leave in front of so many people. Why? We’re not even friends, and she thinks she can just dictate my actions like the world revolves around her?”

“Just talk to her properly, ask her to change.”

Jiang Qin frowned: “Why should I waste my time on her? If one friend doesn’t work out, I’ll find another. What’s wrong with that?”

Wang Huiru’s reply was noticeably slower: “Nothing’s wrong, but are you sure you’re not saying this out of spite because she rejected you?”

“I’ve made myself very clear. Why do you all still think this way? I bet Chu Siqi thinks the same, right? Don’t you think I’m acting this way because I can’t handle rejection and I’m trying to save face?”

“No, no, that’s not what I think. Don’t misunderstand, Jiang Qin!”

Jiang Qin continued typing: “Wang, I don’t even want to say a word to her. I’m explaining this much only because of you. Do you understand?”

Seeing this response, Wang Huiru’s heart softened: “Then I’ll talk to her, tell her not to bother you for a while.”

“Not just for a while, but forever.”

“Jiang Qin, saying that is too hurtful. She left you a way out when she rejected you, even encouraged you. Can’t you be a little less cold towards her?”

“I can’t believe this. When she said to keep going because there might be hope, you call that encouragement? She doesn’t have feelings for me. She’s just lonely and thinks I can keep her company. The moment she finds someone she truly likes, she won’t even remember who I am.”

“…”

“Wang, sometimes it’s better to speak harshly, to make a clean break. It prevents both parties from harboring too many illusions.”

Upon reading this reply, Wang Huiru fell silent, suddenly recalling the conversation she had with Chu Siqi on Central Street.

“Siqi, what if you meet someone you truly like in the future?”

“Then I’d definitely choose the one I like. I can’t pick Jiang Qin just because he’s persistent, can I?”

Knowing that Jiang Qin’s words were not without truth, she had no ground to argue, even feeling somewhat on Jiang Qin’s side.

“Alright, Jiang Qin, I know what to do.”

“Wang, it’s been nice chatting with you, but please don’t contact me about her matters again. I don’t want my day to be ruined, okay?”

“Sorry.”

“It’s fine, as long as things are clear.”

After ending the chat, Wang Huiru sighed, her gaze drifting into a daze.

Indeed, Jiang Qin truly had no lingering feelings for her best friend, turning into disgust and rejection instead.

But what about Feng Nanru?

Was she really dating Jiang Qin?

She was the daughter of a wealthy family, often picked up in a Bentley, and the dream of countless boys at Chengnan High School. Boys secretly in love with her would form a line from Chengnan High School to the city center. Yet, Jiang Qin could pinch her face, and she was utterly adorable and capricious. Who would believe such a thing?

Even Wang Huiru wanted to ask: Why?

Jiang Qin looked good, was tall, and performed well academically, but she still couldn’t believe he could win Feng Nanru’s heart.

Feng Nanru was famously aloof at school, hardly speaking to anyone, exuding an unapproachable air of nobility.

Some boys felt inferior just getting close to her, wondering how they dared to harbor such hopes, not realizing their own worth.

So this was all just illogical!

Wang Huiru felt she was increasingly unable to see through Jiang Qin. And then she couldn’t help but think of her best friend again.

Siqi was still haughty and temperamental, waiting for Jiang Qin to regret and apologize, completely unaware of all that had transpired in just half a month.

Wang Huiru picked up her phone again, found Chu Siqi’s QQ, and sent her a message.

“I just asked Jiang Qin. He said his affairs have nothing to do with you and asked you not to contact him anymore.”

“That asshole, how can he speak like that? Didn’t you scold him for me?”

“Siqi, let it go. You’ve already rejected him. Just forget about him.”

In a bedroom of a unit in Fenglinlu Community, Chu Siqi, dressed in pajamas, was infuriated. She threw her college application guidebook against the wall, tears welling up in her eyes.

That Jiang Qin, he must hate her for rejecting him, so he’s deliberately trying to upset her!

Yes, he succeeded. She was indeed upset.

But wasn’t he uncomfortable holding back for so long? It was just prideful suffering.

In fact, Chu Siqi had her reasons for asking Wang Huiru to inquire about Jiang Qin’s scores. She wanted to give Jiang Qin an out, hinting him to stop being resentful.

Lately, she was becoming increasingly irritable, constantly checking her phone, fantasizing about a message from Jiang Qin admitting his mistake.

This was almost becoming her obsession.

She never cared so much about Jiang Qin before, but now he filled her thoughts. Chu Siqi didn’t like this version of herself, nor the feeling of losing control.

But she hadn’t expected Jiang Qin to be so heartless. He really didn’t know what’s good for him!

Fine, no contact then. From now on, whoever contacts the other is a fool!Chapter 17: The Rich Little Lady in a Swimsuit

TL: Etude

In early July, on a sunny and warm afternoon, the Housing Expropriation Department of the Construction Bureau called Jiang Qin to agree to his proposed compensation terms and invited him to sign the contract immediately, setting an example for other homeowners.

Why? Because there were simply too many greedy people, even forming groups, each asking for a higher price than the last.

After three days of effort, the demolition team couldn’t reach an agreement with a single homeowner. Everyone believed that the longer they waited, the more they would receive, and anyone who signed first would surely lose out.

In contrast, Jiang Qin’s fixed price offer seemed very reasonable.

The Expropriation Department decided that since the homeowners were banding together to raise their prices, it would be simpler to break them up from within. Essentially, once one person signed the contract, others would inevitably follow.

Thus, Jiang Qin became the key to encouraging everyone to sign their contracts as soon as possible.

After signing the contract, Jiang Qin received a total compensation of 4.79 million yuan and was allotted four resettlement houses: two in the newly constructed Yushui Bay area in the new city district, and two opposite Fuzi Lake in the Jingyuan area.

From the perspective of 2008, these two neighborhoods were not considered prime locations, as the new city district had just been developed and lacked supporting facilities, making it somewhat desolate.

However, by 2010, a high-speed train station was built opposite Yushui Bay, and the new number one middle school moved to the south of Fuzi Lake. With the city government also moving north, property prices changed dramatically.

Jiang Qin, however, did not dare tell his parents about the house purchase and demolition, as he found it difficult to explain.

Since his parents were well-off and healthy, he thought it could wait; there was no harm in keeping it a secret for now.

On July 13th, to attract homeowners to sign, the demolition office transferred the compensation to Jiang Qin in less than three working days.

On July 15th, Jiang Qin successfully completed his college applications, opting for the finance program at Linchuan University.

On July 16th, he transferred 2.73 million yuan from his bank account to repay Nan Fengshu and, to express his gratitude, took her to a hot spring town in the eastern suburbs for a day.

The secluded hot spring pool, situated atop a cliff, faced towering mountains, offering a breathtaking view.

Feng Nanshu, clad in a swimsuit, relaxed in the warm springs. Her cheeks flushed from the steam, she held a soda in one hand and a sweet osmanthus cake in the other, her eyes constantly admiring the opposite mountains, visibly delighted.

Her swimsuit, purchased by Jiang Qin, was a conservative two-piece with a white strap top and a skirt, rather than a sexy bikini.

Despite Jiang Qin’s belief that the swimsuit was modest, he underestimated the allure of Feng Nanshu’s figure.

Her long, snow-white legs, slender waist, and the clear definition of her abs were particularly striking.

Unsuspecting of Jiang Qin’s gaze, the naturally naive girl comfortably stretched out her perfect curves, unaware of how her innocence and allure blended together, and oblivious to Jiang Qin’s fixed stare.

“There was a big bird that just flew by,” she remarked.

“Yes, big and white,” he replied.

Feng Nanshu turned slowly, a hint of confusion in her eyes, “But the bird that just flew by was black.”

Wiping his face with a towel, Jiang Qin said, “You know, you can’t just look at the appearance of things. Sometimes you need to see beyond the surface to the pure essence inside.”

“?”

Looking down at her chest, Feng Nanshu asked, “Were you looking at my chest?”

Jiang Qin, caught off guard, didn’t panic, “You’re thinking too much. I am a gentleman who wouldn’t stare inappropriately!”

“Then could you stop rubbing my foot? It’s starting to hurt.”

“That’s because the pool is too small. I didn’t want you to accidentally kick me.”

Jiang Qin continued with his gentlemanly excuses, but still discreetly stopped touching Feng Nanshu’s delicate feet, pretending to focus on the distant mountains and scenery.

“Splash—”

Feng Nanshu stood up in the pool, leaning over the edge with her bottom in the air, reaching for a bag of pepper and salt rice crackers in front, but unable to reach it.

Jiang Qin was sitting very close to Feng Nanshu, so close that he felt he could almost feel the heat of her skin. It was almost unbearable.

“I’m done soaking. I’m going to take a shower first,” he said, climbing out of the pool and handing her the rice crackers before heading into the shower room.

The cold water cascading down his back made him shiver, and he couldn’t help but berate himself.

‘You’re a thirty-eight-year-old man desiring an eighteen-year-old naïve girl. Is that proper?’ He thought. Men are indeed faithful in their ways, always attracted to younger women.

Hearing the sound of the shower, Feng Nanshu glanced down at her chest, slightly furrowed her brows, and then tore open a packet of rice crackers, crunching on them.

“Hmph, this man really likes to look at chests, and he even likes playing with feet.”

After their showers, the two left the hot spring hotel and took a sightseeing car to the town’s commercial street, planning to grab something to eat.

When they inquired about the prices, a roast chicken was selling for 58 yuan. Jiang Qin couldn’t believe his ears.

“It’s 2008, and a roast chicken costs 58 yuan? If I had known, I would have bought half-price chickens from the zoo to roast and sell here. These scenic areas really know how to make money.”

But then…

Feng Nanshu’s mouth watered at the sight of the roast chicken in the rotisserie.

Jiang Qin couldn’t help but laugh, having never seen someone crave roast chicken like this. He ended up spending fifty-eight yuan on a chicken.

The 1.7 million yuan he had was all thanks to Feng Nanshu. His benefactress and little rich lady deserved whatever she wanted, even if it were the moon. This was his way of showing gratitude.

But was Feng Nanshu really a rich family’s daughter? Why did she seem so greedy for food, almost unable to walk past any?

“Have you never eaten roast chicken before?”

Feng Nanshu wiped her mouth, her gaze still cold: “Mother said a true lady should never be swayed by appetite, to avoid weaknesses.”

Jiang Qin sighed, thinking to himself, “You’re almost swayed to death by desires. What kind of wolf culture is this? Eat up, just don’t waste it.”

“Jiang Qin, thank you for buying me roast chicken. You’re my best friend.”

“Miss, if I’m your only friend, then of course I’m the best.”

After pondering for a while, Feng Nanshu revised her statement: “Then I think you’re a good person.”

Jiang Qin felt slightly defeated: “If you want to compliment me, just say I’m handsome. Don’t give me those vague ‘good person’ remarks.”

“Oh.”

“By the way, I might be busy in the next few days. I’ll be learning to drive and trying out some small business, so I probably won’t have time to accompany you. Do you have somewhere to go?”

“I can read in the library,” Feng Nanshu answered promptly.

“Won’t you feel lonely?”

“Not lonely. I used to be like this, alone.”

Feng Nanshu looked up at him, her eyelashes trembling slightly, seemingly unaware of what loneliness was.

Her life probably wouldn’t change much whether someone was there or not.Chapter 18: In Times of Trouble, Seek Jiang Qin

TL: Etude

In the peak of summer, the weather was unbearably hot.

It felt as if the heavens had enveloped Jizhou City in an invisible steamer, where standing idle was enough to drench one in sweat.

At that time, Jiang Qin, bronzed by the sun, stood outside the traffic police station with his newly acquired driver’s license, then took a taxi to the bank and withdrew 270,000 in cash.

He had decided on this sum earlier.

His plan was to use this money to explore various industries, to determine the direction of his business ventures, and avoid unnecessary detours.

Honestly, 270,000 could last a long time if merely spent, but it was hardly sufficient for business investments.

So, Jiang Qin was not after profit; his involvement was more of an experiment, to gain insider knowledge and maintain his entrepreneurial enthusiasm.

On July 21st, Jiang Qin contacted Huang Ying’s mother, a classmate of his, and arranged a consignment of slimming injections and hyaluronic acid from abroad.

He bought them for 150 per injection and resold them to beauty salons for 899 each.

Although the beauty industry wasn’t booming in 2008, its future prosperity in medical aesthetics was clear. As long as women sought beauty, this industry would thrive.

On July 22nd, browsing financial news, he noticed that Nongfu Spring was seeking a new slogan, offering a reward of 300,000. Jiang Qin emailed them, “We don’t produce water; we’re just nature’s couriers,” and left his phone number.

The next day, he received a call from an unknown number.

The caller claimed to be the manager of Nongfu Spring’s PR department, expressing gratitude and asking for his bank details.

When the money hit his account, Jiang Qin felt as if he had found easy money, reveling in the joys of rebirth.

On July 24th, Jiang Qin invested in his classmate Yang Shu’an’s mutton soup shop, acquiring a 30% stake.

Based on his memory, Yang Shu’an’s father’s culinary skills were unrivaled in Jizhou, and within five years, they had expanded to neighboring cities, making it a surefire profitable venture.

Jiang Qin wasn’t overly interested in investing in stores, but he was curious about the secret recipe. Eventually, he discovered a packet of Three-Flower Condensed Milk in a cupboard. (I’m confused too)

On July 29th, his driving instructor mentioned a pharmaceutical product he was representing, promising a tenfold profit. Hearing of Jiang Qin’s wealth, he invited him to join.

Intrigued yet cautious of such an easy opportunity, Jiang Qin did some digging and found out the instructor’s wife was involved in a pyramid scheme. He promptly reported it.

On August 6th, with the Olympics about to start, Jiang Qin hired ten people from the labor market to sell national flags and Fuwa mascots on the streets.

He ended up paying all his earnings in wages and even incurred a loss of 1,500, but seeing the streets adorned in red, he felt a sense of joy.

In a blink, half a month had passed.

Jiang Qin felt he had gained much insight.

The medical beauty industry was indeed lucrative but required substantial upfront investment and high costs. The catering industry was stable and profitable, but often at the cost of ethics.

Moreover, labor costs were a crucial consideration.

From the start, one must figure out how to pass these costs onto the customers, rather than bearing the risk oneself.

For example, selling national flags, bought for 0.5 yuan and sold for 3 yuan, yet still incurring a loss in wages.

Most importantly, one must never trust opportunities that come too easily, lest they get entangled in unforeseen troubles.

Jiang Qin realized he truly enjoyed doing business, finding it intriguing even at a loss.

“Why didn’t I think of starting a business in my last life?” he mused.

Meanwhile, in the senior class of Grade 12, Class 2, the recent graduates, having received their university admission notices, were restless.

Their restlessness differed from Jiang Qin’s business-driven excitement; theirs stemmed from sheer boredom.

“Guys, the admission notices are out. Shall we go out and have some fun?” they suggested in their class group chat.

“I think that’s a great idea,” someone chimed in. “The summer vacation is so long, and it’s boring staying at home. I’ve been wanting to hang out with friends.”

“Are there any fun places we can go? Let’s plan a group outing!”

“I heard there’s a bar across from the fire station. We could gather there, watch the Olympics, and have some drinks. How about we give it a try?”

As the chat continued, more and more classmates joined in on the conversation.

Truth be told, with a three-month long post-exam holiday, staying at home could get tedious. Many harbored a desire to go out and have fun.

Previously constrained by their studies and the pressure of exams, they now felt free to indulge in youthful revelries.

Chu Siqi typed, “I’m feeling a bit restless too. Count me in if we’re going out.”

Qin Zi’ang replied, “Siqi’s going? Then I’m in too.”

Yu Shasha added, “Count me in! I’ve never been to a bar. When are we going?”

“Let’s not kid ourselves. We tried going a few days ago but couldn’t get in. It’s always packed, and you need to book in advance.”

“Yeah, that bar is really popular now. I heard even with money, you can’t get a seat. How can we, a bunch of poor students, compete with adults for seats?”

Guo Zihang chimed in, “Are you guys talking about Neon Bar?”

Qin Zi’ang asked, “Oh, you know about it?”

Guo Zihang revealed, “Actually, you could ask Jiang Qin to book seats for us.”

There was a pause in the chat, followed by a flurry of question marks.

Guo Zihang’s sudden comment left everyone baffled.

What did he mean by asking Jiang Qin to book seats? Everyone else failed to get a reservation, so how could Jiang Qin manage it? Did he have a special connection?

Qin Zi’ang scoffed, “Jiang Qin? What, has he stopped selling lunchboxes to work as a bartender?”

Yu Shasha wondered, “Has he gone crazy for money? How poor is his family that he’s doing everything?”

Guo Zihang clarified, “He’s not a bartender. He actually rented half the bar and initiated the collective viewing of the Olympics. But it got so popular that the bar owner handed over the entire operation to him.”

Chu Siqi asked, “How much does it cost to rent half a bar?”

Guo Zihang answered, “For the space and drinks, it’s about 300,000.”

Yu Shasha exclaimed, “Are you kidding me? How could he possibly have 300,000? I know you’re close friends, but there’s a limit to bragging.”

Guo Zihang insisted, “I’m not boasting. I was there at Neon Bar for the opening ceremony yesterday, and it didn’t cost me a thing.”

Huang Ying revealed, “Guo Zihang isn’t bluffing. A few days ago, Jiang Qin partnered with my mom to import a batch of beauty injections worth 500,000, and he contributed 100,000.”

Yang Shu’an added, “My family’s mutton soup restaurant is opening a branch. If you can’t make it to the bar, you’re welcome to come to our place for soup!”

Chu Siqi replied, “We’re discussing serious matters here. Why are you advertising now?”

Yang Shu’an explained, “Our second branch of the mutton soup restaurant also has an investment from Jiang Qin. I don’t know the exact amount, but it’s definitely over 100,000. I even have to call him ‘uncle’ now.”

Guo Zihang asked, “Why do you call him ‘uncle’?”

Yang Shu’an shared, “On the day we signed the contract, Jiang Qin and my dad both drank too much. They were so drunk they insisted on becoming sworn brothers, and no one could talk them out of it.”Chapter 19: Don’t Pretend on Behalf of Your Adoptive Father

TL: Etude

“See, I told you I wasn’t lying.”

Guo Zihang’s last words brought silence to the entire group.

Now, no one was speaking anymore, not even Qin Zi’ang, who was known for arrogantly offering to pay for everyone in the cafeteria.

To be honest, at this moment, they would rather believe their eyes deceived them than accept that what Guo Zihang, Huang Ying, and Yang Shu’an said was true.

Three hundred thousand yuan was an amount far beyond what high school students could comprehend.

They would be over the moon to have just ten yuan in their pockets, let alone three hundred thousand – it would be like shooting out of the Milky Way for them.

But then again, it was typical of Guo Zihang to brag on behalf of Jiang Qin, as he always clung to him, even back in school. However, it made no sense for Huang Ying and Yang Shu’an to boost Jiang Qin’s claims without reason.

So, was everything Guo Zihang said true?

But how could we, who feel the pinch even for a yellow diamond membership (TL: I think the author is referring to his readers not subscribing to his novel lol), believe that Jiang Qin, that scoundrel, dared to spend three hundred thousand?

Are we even attending the same high school?

Among them, Chu Siqi was the most shocked. She couldn’t fathom that Jiang Qin had done so much during the summer vacation, and every bit of it seemed unbelievable.

While everyone else was idly chatting online, accumulating game hours, stealing vegetables in FarmVille, or agonizing over puppy love, Jiang Qin was already engaged in business dealings worth tens of thousands.

Yet, he never boasted about it, as if earning hundreds of thousands was nothing to show off.

Thinking about this, Chu Siqi suddenly felt Jiang Qin become distant in her heart, evoking an unsettling feeling of unattainability.

It turned out he wasn’t just hiding to avoid embarrassment.

He was genuinely doing business.

While others wasted their time, proving their maturity through drinking, he had transformed into a person who dazzled the entire class.

After a moment of distraction, Chu Siqi suddenly felt a bit angry.

Jiang Qin didn’t share such important matters with her, telling Guo Zihang but deliberately hiding it from her. This was too much. He used to share everything with her!

“Guo Zihang, tell me honestly, where did his money come from?”

“I already told you at the last gathering. Jiang Qin has always been in business, obviously he earned it.”

“What kind of business can make three hundred thousand?”

“I wouldn’t know that. If I did, wouldn’t I have made three hundred thousand myself?”

“But didn’t you say the business was selling boxed lunches? I saw you guys selling them before!”

Guo Zihang replied with a string of ellipses: “Old Lady Mao (Lao Ganma chilis) used to sell wontons, did that stop her from starting a company?”

At this point, Qin Zi’ang became a bit restless: “Impossible, I don’t even have three hundred thousand, where would he get that much? Nonsense!”

Guo Zihang sent a smiley face: “Don’t compare yourself to Jiang Qin. Relying on your father isn’t a skill.”

“What are you guys talking about?” Wang Huiru suddenly popped up from her lurking state.

Chu Siqi: “Huiru, they’re saying Jiang Qin spent three hundred thousand to rent half a bar!”

“Ah????”

“Do you find it hard to believe too?”

After hesitating for a while, Wang Huiru replied: “Not really, I saw something even more unbelievable on Jiang Qin a few days ago.”

Chu Siqi instantly sent a surprised emoji: “What else happened?”

“…”

“Huiru, did you lose connection?”

“No, no, I was just joking.”

Wang Huiru hesitated and decided not to reveal the matter between Jiang Qin and Feng Nanshu.

Three hundred thousand yuan was indeed shocking, but no matter how astonishing, it was just a number. Everyone would marvel, but only at the magnitude of the figure. However, Feng Nanshu was different from a mere number; she was a living, breathing “white moonlight.” Revealing this would undoubtedly cause an explosion in the group chat, and within a night, the entire school would know.

Jiang Qin was also observing the group chat at this time, mainly because the QQ messages were too annoying. Despite his attempts, he couldn’t manage to mute them, wondering if it was because the 2008 version of QQ lacked this feature.

If it were Qin Zi’ang, he would have definitely jumped in to show off by now.

Ah, yes, yes, it was all my doing. I am that awesome!

But Jiang Qin disdained such behavior and lacked such a desire for attention.

Why would he bother showing off, only to end up offering a dozen free bar seats? Was he that idle?

Moreover, he felt he needed to clarify to Guo Zihang that not showing off was because he found such things too childish. Couldn’t Guo stop acting as his stand-in?

But it was a bit pleasing, after all, to have someone bragging for him.

Jiang Qin held down the hang-up button, waiting for the screen to turn off, then walked into the Jizhou City Library carrying a bag of snacks.

Half a month had passed since returning from the hot spring town, and he hadn’t seen the little rich lady again, nor had they chatted much on QQ. With the bar not yet open, he decided to stop by the library.

Upon reaching the second floor, he immediately spotted the little rich lady.

Today, she wore a white lady’s dress with a small black bow tie, sitting quietly and gracefully, holding a thick book. Her gaze, however, wasn’t on the book but out the window.

Since returning from the hot spring town, Feng Nanshu had been coming to the library daily, intending to finish the last part of “The Magic-Eyed Girl Peggy Sue.”

This installment was said to be the most interesting in the series.

It told of a catastrophic disaster on the planet Kandata.

A monster, asleep underground for a billion years, awoke and began frantically searching for crevices with its thousands of tentacles, snatching away sleeping children from their rooms.

As it grew over time, it became so enormous that it cracked open roads and caused cities to collapse.

Peggy Sue and her companions, after investigation, were shocked to discover that the planet was originally an egg, one that had been incubating in the universe for billions of years. The life that emerged on this planet was the real outsider.

If this were before, Feng Nanshu would have been utterly engrossed in the book.

Such a 396-page book would have taken her just three afternoons to finish.

But now…

It had been half a month, and she hadn’t even finished half of it.

Even the parts she had read seemed blurry in her memory.

Feng Nanshu looked out the sunny window at the lush trees, suddenly aware of an indescribable loneliness in her heart.

Just then, the chair opposite her was pulled out.

Startled, Feng Nanshu turned to see Jiang Qin sitting down silently, placing the bag of snacks gently on the table.

“I’ve been almost dead with busyness these past few days. Finally, I’ve got some time to rest. How have you been lately, little rich lady?”

“Jiang Qin, I think I’m really feeling a bit lonely.”

A flicker of confusion passed through Feng Nanshu’s cool gaze.

Reading alone had always been her most basic way of life. Jiang Qin’s arrival was just an unexpected event in her life, like a peanut accidentally mixed into a vat of rice. Removing the peanut should leave the vat as it was, right?

But she couldn’t understand why her life suddenly felt so lonely.Chapter 20: The Dazzling Moonlight

TL: Etude

Jiang Qin was momentarily stunned after hearing this, then pursed his lips.

“All you do every day is practice the piano and dance. The most enjoyable part of your life is just reading fantasy adventure novels. These past few days, I’ve taken you shopping, to the hot springs, and even endured embarrassment to accompany you on the merry-go-round. Comparing the two, it would be strange if you didn’t feel lonely.”

“Let’s go, pack up your things.”

“Where are we going?”

“I’m taking you to a bar to watch the Olympics.”

Feng Nanshu’s eyes immediately lit up. She quickly grabbed her small shoulder bag, neatly arranged her book, and placed it back on the shelf before happily following downstairs.

It was still midday, and the bar was not even open yet. But as the person in charge, it only took a word from Jiang Qin to open it. The absence of customers also meant that Feng Nanshu, who had social anxiety, wouldn’t feel too nervous.

Jiang Qin led Feng Nanshu into the bar, pointed her to a seat to sit obediently, and then went out with the ‘Open for Business’ sign, placing it at the entrance.

Just then, four figures suddenly darted across the street from the opposite side.

The first was a small, dark, and chubby boy, followed by a slick, high-quality man, and lastly, two girls carrying sling bags.

“Godfather!”

“?????”

Jiang Qin looked up and saw it was Guo Zihang, Qin Zi’ang, Yu Shasha, and Wang Huiru.

“What brings you here?”

Guo Zihang, panting heavily from running, had a triumphant look in his eyes: “I told them you’re running this bar now. They didn’t believe me, so I brought them here to see!”

Wang Huiru immediately spoke up: “I didn’t say I didn’t believe it. I’m just here for the fun. It’s Yu Shasha who didn’t believe.”

“I didn’t say I didn’t believe it either. I’m checking it out for our Siqi!”

Yu Shasha pouted, her gaze involuntarily scanning Jiang Qin: “Did you really rent this bar for 300,000 yuan?”

“Don’t listen to Guo Zihang’s nonsense.”

“I knew it, where would you get 300,000 from.”

Guo Zihang’s face instantly turned red: “Jiang Bro, you did say it was 320,000!”

Jiang Qin spat at him: “I said 320,000, not 300,000. You’re really crazy. Is 20,000 not money? Just rounding down like that?”

“Oh right, 320,000!”

Hearing this, Qin Zi’ang, who had been silent, suddenly changed his expression.

Damn, that was close. Lucky it was Yu Shasha who spoke and not me, or else that slap would have hit my face.

Yu Shasha indeed felt like she had been slapped, stuttering without a reply.

But Jiang Qin didn’t make a big deal out of it.

He’s an adult; why bother with a group of kids?

He set up the blackboard, opened the door for the four to come in, told them to find a spot to sit wherever, and then went to turn on the four TVs in the middle of the bar.

Honestly, the bar’s environment was indeed suitable for hosting such small gatherings. First, it had an atmosphere, and second, it had an endless supply of drinks.

Watching a diving competition or a table tennis match here, with the cheers in your ears, was definitely more exhilarating than watching alone at home.

Yu Shasha and Wang Huiru were visiting a bar for the first time. They were a bit cautious when they entered, fearing some colorful demons and monsters might jump out. But seeing no one inside, they immediately relaxed.

Meanwhile, Qin Zi’ang watched Jiang Qin’s back with a cold smile, thinking to himself, ‘let him show off for a couple of days. When I get back home, I’ll ask my dad to buy a bar too. I’ll just copy his model to make money. Won’t he be annoyed then?’

Just then, Qin Zi’ang suddenly heard Yu Shasha exclaim in shock. He couldn’t help but follow her gaze, curious about what had surprised her so much, and then he was stunned.

In the southwest corner of the bar, Feng Nanshu was sitting serenely, her hands on her knees, with a cool detachment in her eyes.

The unapproachable, silent goddess from Nan High School, the bright moonlight in everyone’s eyes.

What was she doing in a bar?

For a rich lady like her, it seemed more fitting to be at wine parties or banquets. The incongruity of her presence in a bar was striking.

Qin Zi’ang thought he was seeing things, so he rubbed his eyes fiercely, even breaking three eyelashes, but Feng Nanshu was still there, very much real and in front of them.

“What will you drink? Beer? I can’t make anything else since the bartender isn’t here,” Jiang Qin’s voice brought the dazed Yu Shasha and Qin Zi’ang back to reality.

The two of them, still confused, mumbled a vague agreement.

“I’ll just have a beer too,” Feng Nanshu suddenly raised her hand, showing the graciousness and adaptability of a little rich lady. True to her elite status, she accepted everything with an open heart and didn’t make extra demands, always displaying sufficient goodwill.

Jiang Qin glanced back at her, “No, you can’t drink. You’re only allowed to have Wahaha.” (Chinese kid’s drink HAHA)

There was a pause.

At that moment, Guo Zihang came in from outside the bar and, with a trembling voice, asked, “Jiang Bro, what… what’s happening here? Why is Feng Nanshu here too?”

Jiang Qin responded emotionlessly, “We’re good friends.”

“But Feng Nanshu never has friends, she doesn’t even talk to others!”

“Alright, you guessed it, she’s just smitten with me!”

“?????”

Ignoring Guo Zihang’s confusion, Jiang Qin turned to Wang Huiru, “Can you drink beer?”

Wang Huiru nodded, her eyes involuntarily drifting towards Feng Nanshu, “I saw you with her shopping last time, and you even pinched her face. Are you sure you’re not dating?”

“Dating? Even dogs wouldn’t do that.”

“?????”

Jiang Qin handed a beer to Guo Zihang, signaling him, “Go, take this to Qin Zi’ang.”

Reluctantly, Guo Zihang took the beer, “This has foreign letters on it. Isn’t this imported beer? Does he deserve it?”

“There are no real drinks in this bar, it’s watered down. Perfect for him, he can’t tell the difference.”

“Godfather is wise!”

Eagerly, Guo Zihang carried the beer over, placing it in front of Qin Zi’ang and even opened it for him. Qin Zi’ang, surprised by his sudden friendliness, took a sip without a word.

Meanwhile, Wang Huiru watched Jiang Qin busily working at the bar, uncertain whether to talk to him about Chu Siqi, as Jiang Qin had previously said not to bother him with that person. But she couldn’t help wanting to mention her.

“Jiang Qin.”

“Hmm?”

“Siqi didn’t come because she has a cold.”

“It doesn’t matter to me.”

Jiang Qin handed her an opened beer, then turned to give Feng Nanshu a bottle of Wahaha.

For over an hour, the group quietly watched the men’s singles and mixed doubles in badminton.

But aside from Jiang Qin, Feng Nanshu, and Guo Zihang, everyone else seemed preoccupied, for the presence of Feng Nanshu, the dazzling moonlight, was too overwhelming.

Qin Zi’ang felt indignant, wondering how someone as ordinary as Jiang Qin could be so close to a girl as noble as Feng Nanshu.

Yu Shasha looked around the bar, pondering over the figure of 300,000 yuan, and thought Chu Siqi might soon regret her decision.

Such a boy was dazzling even to her; who wouldn’t regret missing out on him?

But her regret was useless now. Which girl wouldn’t feel inferior in front of Feng Nanshu?