Chapter 43: A Simple Story

A Chilling Atmosphere

The theater was dark, the screen flashing a horror movie. Eerie music echoed, creating a tense vibe. At Yu Li’s request, they chose the latest horror film. Yu Li watched blankly, clearly bored. The movie didn’t scare her at all. But this was a date, and she had her goals. She’d play her part well.

A Feigned Fear

Yu Li adjusted her expression, pretending to tremble. She leaned toward Fu Qingyue, seeking closeness. “…” Before she touched her, Fu Qingyue flinched slightly. Her eyes quivered, though her face stayed blank. She wasn’t her usual calm self. She was scared of horror movies. Yu Li hadn’t expected this. The aloof girl feared fake scares. Still, her plan wouldn’t change.

A Gentle Reassurance

Yu Li reached out, softly taking Fu Qingyue’s hand. It trembled with panic. “Li Bao…?” Fu Qingyue acted unfazed, her voice curious. “It’s a horror movie… so…” “Can I hold your hand?” Yu Li asked softly. Fu Qingyue didn’t reply. Instead, she gripped Yu Li’s hand tightly. Strangely, holding Yu Li’s hand calmed her. A sense of safety washed over her. The movie’s scares faded away.

A Shift in Focus

Fu Qingyue’s tension shifted from the movie. The gentle girl beside her consumed her thoughts. Was Li Bao scared… or did she notice my fear? Do I have sweaty hands…? Her mind raced, unable to focus on the screen. As time passed, she grew more anxious. Her calm facade hid her spiraling thoughts. When the theater lights came on, she realized the movie was over. She hadn’t watched the second half.

A Reluctant Parting

“Let’s go, Little Qingyue.” “Thanks for letting me hold your hand.” Yu Li smiled, standing and releasing her hand. The sudden loss left Fu Qingyue empty. She instinctively squeezed her hand, finding nothing. “Little Qingyue?” Yu Li noticed her dazed look. “Time to go~” She offered her hand again. Fu Qingyue took it to stand, but didn’t let go. She wanted to understand that strange feeling. Yu Li didn’t mind, and they left hand in hand.

A Change of Plans

“No more horror movies next time.” “They don’t suit us.” Yu Li spoke lightly as they exited. “Okay.” Fu Qingyue agreed instantly. She wasn’t fond of them either. “What’s next… Oh, a milk tea shop!” “Want some, Little Qingyue?” “Okay.” Fu Qingyue was distracted, staring at their joined hands. Girls holding hands was normal. So why did it feel different?

A Familiar Choice

“Peach flavor for you, Little Qingyue?” Yu Li asked, turning back. Fu Qingyue looked up, surprised. How did Yu Li know her favorite flavor? Seeing her confusion, Yu Li chuckled. “Last time, at our first meeting.” “You had peach, remember?” She squeezed Fu Qingyue’s hand gently. “No problem, right?” “Mm.” Fu Qingyue nodded softly. “I’ll stick with grape then.” Yu Li decided quickly and pulled her to order.

A Shared Connection

Soon, they got their drinks. Fu Qingyue stared at Yu Li’s grape milk tea. She fell silent again. “Li Bao, you like grape?” “Yep, love it~” “When you gave me milk tea last time…” “I didn’t expect it’d be my favorite!” Fu Qingyue’s heart stirred at her words. She felt a strange connection. Yu Li and Ye Sheng both loved grape. Both were important to her now.

A Teasing Observation

“Little~ Qing~ yue~” “What’re you thinking? You look happy~” Yu Li dragged out her words playfully. Fu Qingyue’s face showed nothing, yet Yu Li teased. She touched her cheek instinctively. No change. “Hm?” Yu Li leaned closer, smirking. “Spill it~” “…I thought of Big Brother Ye.” Fu Qingyue admitted reluctantly.

A Surprising Revelation

“Big Brother Ye?” “Mm… he likes grape too.” “Really? But that’s not all, is it?” “Do you like him, Little Qingyue?” “Cough!” Fu Qingyue nearly choked on her drink. Her eyes widened in shock. “Why…?” “Shy girls can’t hide their feelings~” “My expression…?” Fu Qingyue was stunned. Only her butler ever read her emotions.

An Adorable Confession

“It’s obvious! You’re so cute!” “Your thoughts show on your face.” “Ugh…” “Spill the love gossip!” Yu Li seemed thrilled, eager for details. “…Fine.” “But…” “I don’t know what my feelings are.” Fu Qingyue looked lost. Yu Li’s curiosity might help her. She finally had someone to confide in.

A Painful Past

“When I was young, at the Fu family…” “I was seen as a monster.” Yu Li listened quietly. “I was stronger than everyone else.” “But… my face showed no emotion.” Fu Qingyue sank into her memories. They weren’t happy ones. “Big Brother Ye, from the Ye family…” “He pulled me out when he visited.” “He…” “Was the only one who didn’t see me as a monster.” “The only one who talked to me normally.” Her voice was soft, her feelings pure. A simple act had been her salvation.

A Gentle Apology

“That… sounds tough.” Yu Li apologized softly. Fu Qingyue’s story wasn’t a happy one.