Chapter 7: New Year

After resting overnight, by the time they set out on their return journey the following afternoon, Zhou Mo was able to walk on her own again. She still couldn’t put too much weight on her foot, though, leaving her with a slight limp.

The car arrived in Xicheng shortly after four in the afternoon. Han Yu asked what everyone’s plans were and whether they should just grab dinner together.

Ye Yinyin said, “Whatever works for you guys, I’m fine with anything.”

Zhou Mo added, “Me too.”

Just as He Chong was about to speak, his phone buzzed. He looked down and saw He Yifei’s name on the screen. After answering the call, He Chong turned to Zhou Mo and said, “I have to head over to my uncle’s place right away. I won’t be able to drive you home today.”

Zhou Mo nodded. “It’s fine.”

He Chong then told Han Yu, “Old Han, take care of Zhou Mo for me. Drop her off after dinner.”

“Do you even need to ask?” Han Yu replied.

He Chong had Han Yu take a detour to drop him off at Yannan Town first. Saying goodbye to the group, he returned to the lot, got into his own jeep, and drove off toward Luocheng.

He Chong arrived at the garment factory at dusk, just as the shift was ending, with workers streaming through the main gate.

On the patch of grass behind the dormitory building, He Chong found He Yifei. Crouched on the ground with his head lowered, he was playing with a stray dog. He Chong walked over and lightly nudged his side with the toe of his shoe. “What’s wrong? What happened?”

He Yifei glanced up at him, shooed the dog away, and stood up with a dejected sigh. “Let’s talk in the office.”

Once inside the office, He Yifei pulled out a contract and handed it to He Chong. “This company canceled their order. They said they don’t want the goods anymore, found another OEM factory, and even said they won’t work with us again.”

He Chong was taken aback. “Didn’t you sign a contract?”

“They forfeited their deposit and even paid the breach-of-contract penalty.” “Have you guys already started production?”

He Yifei was near tears. “More than that! We’re practically finished.”

He Chong flipped through the contract, checking the order quantity, his heart sinking as he read the numbers. “Don’t panic. I’ll ask around my connections. You guys keep working and finish this batch first; we’ll worry about selling it after that.”

“It’s almost New Year’s! If we can’t sell it, forget bonuses, we won’t even be able to pay…”

“I know.”

He Yifei fumed indignantly. What a rotten thing to do! Aren’t they just trying to ruin us?

He Chong sank into thought. After a moment, he asked, “Does Uncle know about this?”

“It’s his factory. How could he not know? He thinks there must be some misunderstanding, so he’s upstairs arguing with them on the phone right now.” He Yifei gestured toward the upper floor with his chin. “The other side says there’s no misunderstanding; they just want to unilaterally terminate the partnership.”

He Chong frowned, offering a comforting word to He Yifei. “Forget it. Keep an eye on Uncle and make sure he doesn’t do anything rash. I’m going to head out now and figure out a way to solve this…”

He Yifei froze. “You’re leaving already?”

“I’m not omnipotent. Solving problems takes time.”

“Why not eat first? I ordered some dishes; they’ll be delivered in a minute.”

He Chong pulled out his phone and checked the time. He calculated that even if he left right now, it would still be almost eight by the time he got back. Deciding there was no need to skip dinner, he nodded.

He Zhengkui had talked himself hoarse on the phone without achieving any result. Over dinner, he downed several glasses of liquor in frustration, apologizing to He Chong for causing him trouble.

“What are you talking about? Haven’t I been causing you trouble since I was a kid?”

“You’re no trouble. It’s this little pup He Yifei who’s the trouble.”

“Dad, if I’m a pup, what does that make you?”

He Zhengkui slapped He Yifei’s hand with his chopsticks and glared at him. “You dare talk back to your old man?”

He Yifei pursed his lips aggrievedly, picked up his bowl, and shoveled rice into his mouth without another word.

He Zhengkui added, “He Chong, how are things between you and that Miss Zhou who came over last time? I can tell you like her. It’s fine to look for connections elsewhere, but make sure you don’t bother Miss Zhou about this. I wouldn’t want her thinking you have ulterior motives.”

He Chong smiled and said, “I know.”

He Zhengkui shot another glare at He Yifei. “When are you going to find yourself a girlfriend?” He Yifei simply turned his back on him, pretending not to hear.

After dinner, He Chong returned to Yannan Town and immediately set to work sorting out the mess at the garment factory.

Over the years, the friends he could call on for favors went well beyond just Han Yu and Wang Song. By calling in a web of favors, he managed to secure a buyer right on the day the factory finished production.

He Yifei hadn’t slept all night. The moment he received He Chong’s call, he immediately contacted the freight drivers and began coordinating warehouse loading at the crack of dawn.

At ten in the morning, the trucks set off, and the weight on He Yifei’s heart finally lifted. He called He Chong, gushing with gratitude: “Bro, you really are my savior!”

Since he had to find someone to step in and take over the inventory on short notice, the price was bound to be low. Selling it would barely cover costs, meaning all that work had been for nothing.

He Chong offered a few words of comfort. “Making less is better than taking a total loss. After the New Year, travel around more and find a couple of new business partners.”

“Got it.”

“Make sure the workers get the bonuses they’re owed, too. Don’t cheap out on that.”

“Will do.”

“How long will the factory be running production?”

“Until the twenty-fifth of the twelfth lunar month, I think. Out-of-town workers and those taking leave will head back earlier. There’s not much work left after that, just one small order. Once that’s delivered, we shut down.”

“When you have time, treat the key staff to a meal. It’s not about playing politics; they’ve worked under you for a long time, so rewarding them is only right.”

He Yifei nodded like a woodpecker. “Bro, now I see how you made friends all over the place.”

He Chong chuckled. “You’ve read too many wuxia^[1] novels.”

He Yifei grinned. “Understood, Bro. I’ll do whatever you say.”

As the New Year drew near, finals week at Zhou Mo’s university finally came to an end. While she was buried in exam prep, He Chong had been running around dealing with the garment factory, so they had barely seen each other for nearly two weeks.

The moment Zhou Mo stepped out of the exam room after her final test, she unlocked her phone. She saw a WeChat message from He Chong: North Gate parking lot. Come straight over when you’re done.

He Chong’s worn jeep stood out noticeably. He must have caught sight of her in his rearview mirror, as an arm reached out of the window and waved.

Zhou Mo ran over, pulled open the passenger door, set her backpack aside, and buckled her seatbelt as she sat down.

“Done with your exams?”

Zhou Mo nodded.

“I’m taking you to eat something good. How about grilled fish? We didn’t get to eat it last time anyway.”

“Last time? Which time?”

He Chong glanced at her. “Your memory is terrible.”

“I’m not like you. I’m busy memorizing so many things every day.”

He Chong started the car. “Right. Our Miss Zhou is an accomplished young lady. You have far too much to learn.”

“You’re making fun of me.”

“I am not.”

“Every time you call me ‘Miss Zhou,’ you’re mocking me.” Holding back a laugh, He Chong said, “I’m really not. That’s a compliment.”

Zhou Mo raised a hand to swat at him, but he caught her fingers and pulled them over to brush against his lips.

He Chong said, “Stop fooling around. I’m driving.”

A sudden shiver ran through Zhou Mo’s hand like an electric current, and she hastily yanked it back. Seeing her reaction, He Chong burst into laughter again.

It was cold outside, and the steaming-hot grilled fish restaurant was packed. Fortunately, He Chong had booked a table in advance, so they didn’t have to wait in line.

Zhou Mo took off her coat, sat down, and suddenly blurted out, “I remember!” “Hmm?”

“I remember when I said I wanted to get grilled fish.”

He Chong said, “Great. Next time, feel free to wait until after the New Year to remember.”

Since he brought up the New Year, Zhou Mo took the opportunity to ask, “Are you staying in Xicheng for the New Year?”

He Chong paused thoughtfully. “I’ll spend New Year’s Eve in Luocheng with my uncle and Yi Fei, and then I have to head back to my hometown on New Year’s Day.”

Zhou Mo was surprised. “Isn’t your hometown Luocheng?”

“Of course not. My family is originally from Lushan County in Zhichuan City. Ever heard of it?”

Zhou Mo nodded, then shook her head. “I’ve only heard of Zhichuan City.”

“It’s a small place. My uncle worked hard to make a living, bringing my mom along from a young age. He only settled down in Luocheng after marrying my aunt.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard you mention it.”

“I was born in Luocheng. My maternal grandparents passed away when I was seven or eight, so I rarely go back. This year an elder on my uncle’s side of the family is turning ninety, and they want all the younger generation to gather.”

“Is New Year’s very lively over there?”

“It’s alright. But I usually spend the New Year with my uncle and Yi Fei. Three grown men don’t make much of a fuss over the holidays.” He Chong glanced at her. “What about you?”

At the mention of this topic, Zhou Mo grew a bit listless. “A family dinner on New Year’s Eve, going to the temple to burn incense on New Year’s Day, and after that, visiting various households to offer New Year greetings.”

“Do you have a lot of relatives?”

Zhou Mo shook her head. “Not relatives. They’re all my dad’s friends from the business world.”

“That does sound pretty annoying.”

Zhou Mo reconsidered and added, “Though this year might be different. The third day of the New Year is my parents’ thirtieth wedding anniversary. My mom is big on tradition and romantic gestures, so she’ll definitely want to go on a vacation with just my dad.”

“Without you?”

“Probably not. My mom doesn’t like taking me on trips; she thinks I’m too boring. Besides, if I’m around, there are a lot of places she can’t go.”

“Who says? My girl isn’t just pretty, she’s plenty of fun too.”

Zhou Mo pursed her lips into a smile.

He Chong asked, “If they don’t take you, will you be home alone?”

Zhou Mo said excitedly, “Being home alone is great! I can do whatever I want.”

He Chong glanced at her. “Then do you want to come home with me for the New Year?”

Zhou Mo froze, stammering, “Isn’t it… a bit too soon?”

He Chong chuckled and dropped the topic, handing her the menu. “See what you want to eat.”

After dinner, they took a short walk nearby, and then He Chong drove Zhou Mo home.

Once Xicheng University officially broke for vacation, Zhou Mo found herself far less free than she had been at school. Zhou Sipei and Tang Shulan kept a strict eye on her, filling her schedule with a mountain of classes. Zhou Mo had piano lessons every morning, foreign language classes in the afternoon, and drawing sessions at night. It was sheer misery.

Zhou Mo tentatively suggested going shopping with Ye Yinyin, but Tang Shulan shot it down. Zhou Sipei arranged a car to transport her between classes, leaving her without a single opening to slip away. She tried several times, but simply couldn’t find a chance to meet up with He Chong.

After finishing her drawing at night, Zhou Mo could only sneak in a short video call with He Chong before bed. He Chong was clearly unaccustomed to video chatting. The first time Zhou Mo brought it up, he hesitated for a long time before agreeing, only to hang up shortly after because he felt awkward.

Later, after more than a week of not seeing Zhou Mo, coupled with her relentless nagging and pleading, he finally gave in.

He Chong appeared deeply unnatural on camera, almost like a different person altogether, not at all like his usual self, who tossed out jokes effortlessly.

Zhou Mo noticed this and sometimes teased him on purpose, calling him “Brother Chong” like the others did and saying, “Brother Chong, look at the camera.”

Every time, He Chong would pull a stern face and say, “I’m hanging up.”

Convenient as voice and video calls were, they couldn’t truly convey a person’s warmth and presence the way being face-to-face did. Zhou Mo used to look forward to vacations, but now she wished the holiday would end as soon as possible.

In the blink of an eye, New Year’s Eve arrived.

Tang Shulan was strict with both herself and others, insisting that life be conducted meticulously. Naturally, she organized a major occasion like New Year’s Eve in an orderly, flawless manner.

Zhou Mo was called out of bed at eight in the morning to follow Tang Shulan around. She didn’t feel like she had actually accomplished much all day, yet she was kept busy from morning to night.

Things finally quieted down after dinner that evening.

Xicheng had a designated area for setting off fireworks and firecrackers, so the three family members bundled up neatly and headed out to watch the display.

Zhou Sipei drove, Tang Shulan sat in the front passenger seat, and Zhou Mo sat in the back.

On the way, Zhou Sipei and Tang Shulan started talking about business again. Zhou Mo listened for a few moments before tuning out.

It was cold outside, and condensation had built up on the car window. Zhou Mo raised her hand to wipe a small patch clean, gazing out at the red lanterns hanging from the trees along the street.

She was so mesmerized that by the time she snapped out of it, she realized Tang Shulan had already called her name several times. She hurriedly asked, “What is it?”

Tang Shulan frowned in displeasure. “Can you focus when your mother is talking to you? Your father and I are leaving for Morocco on the second day of the New Year and returning on the fifth. I’ve already spoken to Aunt Gu…”

“Can I just stay home by myself?”

Tang Shulan looked back at her, seemingly waiting to hear what excuse she had to offer.

Zhou Mo lowered her eyes, softening her tone into a plea. “I don’t like the atmosphere at Aunt Gu’s house. Don’t worry, Mom, I’ll stay right here at home and won’t go anywhere…”

Tang Shulan interrupted before she could finish. “No. With no one watching you, I won’t be able to rest easy.”

Zhou Mo opened her mouth, but realizing further argument was pointless, she merely let out a soft “Oh” and lapsed into silence. She clenched her hands, turned her head away, and bit her lip as she stared out the window.

Indignation surged inside Zhou Mo, yet she was completely powerless.

When they arrived at the fireworks site, Tang Shulan set up the tripod, had the three of them stand together, and took a photo. She took down the camera, looked at the photo preview, and said in deep displeasure, “Momo, it’s New Year’s, such a happy occasion. Why aren’t you smiling at all?”

Zhou Mo forced the corners of her mouth up without saying a word.

Even so, Tang Shulan packed away the camera and tripod with no intention of retaking the shot. It was as if taking this single photo fulfilled her task for the year.

It was only after the midnight New Year’s bell chimed that the three of them finally headed home.

On the way back, Zhou Mo couldn’t help wondering what He Chong was doing right then. Was he watching TV and chatting with his uncle and Yi Fei? Was the dog there too, napping on his slippers?

Her eyes didn’t fill with tears, yet the red lanterns lining the street blurred in her vision into a wash of crimson light.

Once back home, after taking a shower, Zhou Mo crawled under the covers and dialed He Chong’s number.

“Hello?”

The moment she heard He Chong’s voice, the aggrieved feelings she had suppressed for so long rushed to her chest, choking her throat. “He Chong…”

He Chong paused, then asked anxiously, “What’s wrong?”

She wiped her eyes fiercely with the back of her hand, sniffling as she sobbed out, “I hate New Year’s. I really do. Every year, New Year’s is just a ritual that has nothing to do with me.”

“Wait right there, I’m coming to see you.”

“Don’t come…” Zhou Mo pressed her palm against her eyes, tears streaming uncontrollably through her fingers. “Don’t come. Even if you do, I won’t be able to see you.”

The line went quiet.

Zhou Mo let out two small sobs. “He Chong, what were you doing?”

“Yi Fei got drunk and threw up all over me. I just finished showering and was chatting with my uncle. He’s a bit tipsy too, blabbering on about my mom. I never knew my uncle could be so chatty, and his memory is freakishly good. He still remembers things from when my mom was three or four. He said even back then, my mom was prettier than the other little girls playing in the mud, and the boys digging up sweet potatoes were always willing to give her an extra…”

There was always a casual, easygoing air to his voice. Hearing it was enough to bring Zhou Mo peace of mind, as if even if the sky fell, he would be there to hold it up for her.

Listening to He Chong ramble aimlessly, Zhou Mo gradually calmed down. She asked in a raspy voice, “Did you get any New Year’s money?”

“How old do you think I am? Still getting New Year’s money? Did you get any?”

“No. Once I turned eighteen, my parents stopped giving it to me.”

“Don’t worry. If they don’t give you any, I’ve got some ready for you. A real big one, more than enough!”

Zhou Mo let out a laugh. “How big is big?”

“A pampered young lady like Miss Zhou would probably think no amount is big enough.”

“You’re teasing me again.”

“This time I’m really not…”

“So you were before?”

The conversation drifted completely off topic. By the time Zhou Mo snapped back to reality, she realized the grievance she had felt when making the call was entirely gone.

He Chong really was amazing. Around him, she could always be a happy, silly girl who had been spoiled since childhood.

He Chong asked softly, “Feeling better?”

“Mm.”

“The New Year holiday only lasts a few days. Even if you hate it, just bear with it for a bit and it’ll pass.”

“Mm.”

“Are your parents definitely going on that trip?”

“Yes, but I’m being sent to Aunt Gu’s house. I don’t want to go. Ever since I met you, I really can’t stand the way Aunt Gu acts.”

He Chong fell silent for a moment. “When are you going?”

“On the second day of the New Year. My parents are leaving for the airport at eight in the morning. They arranged a car to take me to Aunt Gu’s at ten. Are you heading back to Zhichuan City this afternoon?”

“So that’s how it’s arranged.”

Zhou Mo felt a surge of disappointment. “I guess I really won’t see you until school starts.”

He Chong chuckled. “Miss me that much?”

“Don’t you miss me?”

“What do you think?”

Zhou Mo curled her lips into a smile.

“Don’t cry anymore. When I’m not right there by your side, there’s nothing I can do when you cry.”

“I won’t.” Zhou Mo climbed out of bed and walked barefoot to the window.

Because of the New Year, lights still glowed outside. Through the double-paned glass, not a sound from outside penetrated her room. That warmth and brightness, forever beyond Zhou Mo’s reach, seemed to belong to another world entirely.

“He Chong, do you think I’m really weak? Because I don’t dare to fight back at all.”

After a brief silence, He Chong said, “A person can’t lift themselves off the ground by pulling their own hair.”

“But…”

“No ‘buts.’ It’s completely normal that you don’t dare to rebel. Put me in your shoes, and I wouldn’t necessarily be able to fight back either.”

“But you said that except for myself, nobody can take me away.”

He Chong laughed softly. “You sure remember nonsense like that clearly. I’m coming up with a plan, and it won’t take long… Do you remember what I told you? You only need to do three things…”

Zhou Mo murmured, “Look at you, trust you…” He Chong teased her, “And?”

Zhou Mo’s face flushed hot, and no matter what, she refused to say those final words.

He Chong let out a hearty laugh. “Alright, get some rest early, and stop overthinking. We’ll have everything we need. Trust me.”

“Mm. You get some rest early, too.”

“Good night.”

“Good night.”

After hanging up the phone, Zhou Mo sat on the bay window seat, staring blankly into space for a long time.

Over and over, she recalled Duan Yongzhou’s seemingly offhand question from that day: So how do you plan to make a living?

Early on the morning of the second day of the New Year, Zhou Sipei and Tang Shulan set off.

Before leaving, they naturally showered her with endless instructions. Zhou Mo barely listened, mechanically nodding and agreeing to whatever they said, her thoughts having long since drifted away.

After seeing the two of them out, Zhou Mo closed the door and let out a long sigh.

Leaning back against the door, she looked out over the empty villa, overcome by a deep sense of emptiness.

She recalled how, back in middle school, whenever Zhou Sipei and Mo Lan had to go out on business, they would lock her inside and assign her tasks, like completing a painting or practicing a piece of music, which they would inspect upon returning. At first, she would get excited, running upstairs and downstairs, but later she realized that no matter how much noise she made, the only response she got was her own echo. From then on, those tasks lost all their charm.

Zhou Mo returned to the studio, fetched a small hammer and nails, and squatted on the floor to start stretching canvas over a frame. Her mind gradually began to settle. It seemed that anywhere she could paint in peace was always her Neverland.

Humming a tune under her breath, Zhou Mo tapped the small nails into the frame, one by one.

After an unknown length of time, the doorbell rang.

Zhou Mo set down her tools and walked over to open the door. She had already packed her things last night, and her suitcase stood in the living room, ready for departure at a moment’s notice.

The moment the door opened, Zhou Mo instinctively asked, “Did Aunt Gu send you…”

Standing outside was a familiar figure, a roguish smirk playing on his lips. “I’m here to kidnap you.”

Zhou Mo gasped in surprise. “He Chong! How did you…”

“Shh!” He Chong pressed a finger to his lips and whispered, “I was worried about you, so I snuck over while I had the chance to check on you.”

“Didn’t you leave yesterday afternoon…”

“I sent my uncle and Yi Fei back first.”

“Security in our neighborhood is strict. How did you get in?”

He Chong looked rather pleased with himself. “If I really want to get in, do you think security can stop me?”

Zhou Mo was beside herself with joy, her words tumbling out incoherently: “Won’t that delay… Come inside first, though I have to leave soon…” She grabbed He Chong’s arm and pulled him into the house.

“Hey, hey, haven’t you ever heard the phrase ‘inviting a wolf into your home’?”

“Then I’ll ‘dance with the wolf’.” He Chong burst out laughing.

The door closed. Zhou Mo looked up at He Chong, and without a word, stepped forward and threw her arms around him.

He Chong brought his hands up and pressed against Zhou Mo’s back, pulling her tightly into his arms. Moments later, he looked down just as she raised her head. Their eyes met briefly before he leaned down to kiss her. Zhou Mo stood on tiptoe, her arms wrapping around the back of his neck, pressing herself close to him.

Grievance, disappointment, anger at her own helplessness… all were poured into this deep kiss. Zhou Mo had never realized she had so many emotions bottled up inside, waiting to be shared with him.

After a long moment, Zhou Mo pulled back, catching her breath.

He Chong raised his hand and touched her flushed cheek. “I’ll stay with you a little longer…” “I’m going with you!”

He Chong froze.

This time, she had said “I’m going with you,” not “take me away.”

Zhou Mo was clearly not joking. She let go of him, walked into the living room, and grabbed the suitcase standing beside the sofa. Hooking her arm through He Chong’s, she began pulling him toward the door.

He Chong remained rooted to the spot, looking at her with a serious expression. “Do you have any idea how much trouble you’ll be in if you come with me?”

“I don’t care…”

“Zhou Mo, you need to understand that if there is one person in this world who least wants to see you get hurt or mistreated, it’s me.”

Zhou Mo bit her lip tightly, tears welling in her eyes.

Looking at her expression, He Chong felt his heart ache. He weighed the consequences, knowing rationally that under no circumstances should he take Zhou Mo away right now.

And yet, in the end, he steeled his resolve and squeezed her hand back. “Let’s go!”

Zhou Mo looked up at him in surprise.

He Chong turned and pulled open the door, wheeling the suitcase with one hand while holding hers with the other. “Got everything you need?”

“My hometown is out in the middle of nowhere. Once we get there, don’t throw a fit wanting to come back.”

Zhou Mo laughed through her tears. “I definitely won’t!”

Following behind He Chong, Zhou Mo felt her spirits lift, rolling along as lightheartedly as the wheels of her suitcase.

The car was parked at the intersection. He Chong loaded the suitcase into the trunk, walked around to the passenger side, and tapped on the window. “Sit here for a bit. I need to make a call, and we’ll leave in five minutes.”

Zhou Mo nodded repeatedly.

He Chong smiled, turned around, and walked into the shade of the trees ahead where Zhou Mo couldn’t hear him. Pulling out his phone, he dialed Gu Zhiru’s number.

Ever since their last negotiation had ended badly, he hadn’t spoken to Gu Zhiru.

Gu Zhiru clearly assumed his call meant he was ready to compromise, her tone insufferably arrogant. “Have you thought it through?”

He Chong cut straight to the point. “I’m taking Zhou Mo with me. You don’t need to send anyone to pick her up.”

It took Gu Zhiru a moment to respond. “What do you mean? Kidnapping?”

“Don’t put it so crudely. By family hierarchy, she’s technically my niece. What could I possibly do to her?”

“He Chong, you…”

He Chong pulled a cigarette from his pocket, put it in his mouth, flicked his lighter, and bent his head to light it. He said nonchalantly, “You’d better not tell Zhou Sipei about Zhou Mo. I heard your Gu family business is in serious trouble, and you’ve been hiding it from the Zhou family while relying on them to keep you afloat. I have a loose tongue, so it would be a shame if I blabbed about something I shouldn’t. If our personal grudge gets Zhou Sipei’s precious daughter dragged into this, what do you think he’ll do?”

Even over the phone, He Chong could tell Gu Zhiru was furious. “He Chong, you really are a despicable scoundrel!”

He Chong chuckled. “You should have seen my mother’s methods back in the day. Everyone with the surname He is like this.”

“Let me tell you, if you dare do anything to Zhou Mo…”

“On the night of the fourth day of the New Year, I’ll bring her back to you safe and sound. Just pretend this never happened, got it?”

Furious, the person on the other end hung up on him.

He Chong stood where he was, taking a few more drags of his cigarette in silence. He stubbed out the half-smoked cigarette against a tree trunk, then turned around and got back into the car.

As the car started and drove farther away from the Zhou family home, Zhou Mo was in high spirits, unable to resist humming a tune.

Hearing her, He Chong nearly burst out laughing. “What on earth are you singing?”

Zhou Mo paused. She was humming “As the Sun Sets Over the Western Mountains… The Soldiers Return to Camp after Target Practice^[2].”

“It’s all because of your influence!”

He Chong burst into laughter.

The drive from Xicheng to Lushan County in Zhichuan City took over four hours.

He Chong told Zhou Mo to rest in the car, but she was as excited as a wild horse broken free of its reins, unable to stay still for even a moment. One minute she would roll down the window, only to quickly roll it back up while complaining about the cold wind; the next minute she would fiddle with the car radio, listening to each station for just ten seconds; then she would find a few dad jokes on her phone and insist on reading them aloud to him.

He Chong said helplessly, “Why do I feel like I picked up a fake eldest miss of the Zhou family today? I remember you weren’t this restless before.”

“That’s because you don’t know me well enough yet.”

He Chong chuckled and said, “Then I’m doomed. We middle-aged folks don’t have the boundless energy you young people have.”

Zhou Mo leaned back against her seat and turned to look at him. “You’re fine. You’re not that old.”

He Chong: “…”

“By the way, Brother Chong, when’s your birthday?”

“Since when did you start calling me Brother Chong, too?”

“Since you’re protecting me these few days, that makes me your little lackey.”

He Chong turned to look her up and down. “With your skinny arms and legs, you’d only hold me back. I don’t take lackeys like you.”

Zhou Mo gave a faint snort of indignation. “You still haven’t answered me. When is your birthday?”

“June 30th. Why?”

Zhou Mo counted on her fingers, her eyes widening in surprise. “You’re actually a Cancer? How could you possibly be a Cancer?”

“Why can’t I be a Cancer?”

“Cancers are real homebodies.”

“What do you mean by that? I don’t look like someone who loves family?”

“Not really,” Zhou Mo said, studying him closely. “Cancers are supposed to have a maternal side. I think that part fits you pretty well.”

He Chong: “Other people hand out ‘nice guy cards,’ and you’re giving me a ‘mother card’?”

Zhou Mo couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

As noon approached, Zhou Mo finally ran out of energy and fell asleep with her head tilted to the side. When she woke up, she found the car crossing a bridge.

Leaning against the window, she looked outside. A river wound around the mountains with rippling green water, and the whole town was built against the mountain slopes, shrouded in a thin mist.

“Have we arrived in Lushan?”

“We’re here. But it’ll take another hour to reach the town. Once we get there, I’ll introduce you to two interesting friends.”

Zhou Mo smiled and said, “It seems like you have friends everywhere.”

Once the car crossed the bridge, it entered a winding mountain road that seemed to stretch on endlessly. Treacherous with sharp curves, the drive left Zhou Mo a bit carsick. She leaned silently against the car window, and total silence fell over the vehicle.

A little past one in the afternoon, the car drove into a small town. There was only one main street, lined with shops on both sides and packed tight with bustling pedestrian traffic. The car crawled forward in stop-and-go fashion until it finally cleared the crowded stretch, and the road opened up.

Before long, a small white building came into view.

He Chong parked the car. “We’re here.”

Zhou Mo rolled her suitcase along and pointed at the small white building. “Here?”

He Chong nodded and took the lead, stepping up to knock on the door.

A deep, pleasant male voice called out from inside, “Coming.” A moment later, the door opened, and a little boy of three or four stepped out.

Quick on his feet, He Chong scooped the little boy into his arms and asked, “Where’s your dad?”

“Daddy!” The little boy turned his head and pointed inside.

A tall man with handsome features stepped out, bringing a gust of wind that instinctively forced one to take half a step back. Although his clothes were plain, he radiated a strangely imposing, outlaw aura.

He Chong introduced him to Zhou Mo. “This is my friend, Zhou Xian.”

Zhou Mo hastily said, “Hello, I’m Zhou Mo.”

The man nodded. “Hello. Please come in.”

Carrying the little boy with one arm, He Chong walked into the house together with Zhou Mo.

The first floor served as the living room. It was sparsely furnished, with all sorts of toys scattered across the floor. The little boy squirmed to get down, so He Chong bent down and set him on the ground. The boy immediately squatted down and began playing with a toy car.

He Chong smiled and said, “Kids grow so fast. You blink, and they’ve already shot up another inch.”

Zhou Xian glanced at the boy. “He’s a handful. Needs a spanking every few days.” He handed He Chong a cigarette. “Have a seat and make yourselves at home. Xu Tang went to her parents’ place to pick up a few things. She’ll be back in a bit.”

Zhou Mo guessed that “Xu Tang” must be the name of Zhou Xian’s wife.

Zhou Xian pulled a tin of tea leaves from a drawer, grabbed a handful and threw them into glass cups, then poured boiling water over them and set them down in front of his guests.

He had just sat down and was about to catch up with He Chong when a baby’s cry suddenly came from upstairs. He immediately stood up and hurried toward the stairs, saying as he walked, “Sit tight for a moment.”

Watching his figure dash upstairs, Zhou Rong shifted closer to He Chong and asked in a low whisper, “Who exactly is this Zhou Xian?”

He Chong looked at her with a smile. “What kind of guy does he look like to you?”

“I can’t tell, but I’m a little scared of him.”

“What’s there to be scared of? You both share the same surname, Zhou.”

“I feel like he’s involved with the underworld.”

He Chong laughed. “How many mobsters have you ever met?”

Zhou Mo said with dead seriousness, “I’ve seen them in movies. He has that Chan Ho-nam^[3] vibe from Hong Kong gangster films.”

Just as she said that, “Chan Ho-nam” came downstairs with a swaddled infant tucked under his arm. He sat down opposite He Chong and Zhou Mo, unwrapped the small blanket around the baby, pulled off the dirty diaper, wiped the baby down with a tissue, and then, like a magic trick, pulled out a fresh diaper from his pocket. Unfolding it, he slipped it under, fastened one tab, tucked it in, flipped the baby over, fastened the other tab, and pulled up the baby’s pants.

His movements were so practiced and skillful that it left them speechless.

All of Zhou Mo’s fantasies about him being in the underworld crumbled to dust in an instant.

After changing the baby’s diaper, Zhou Xian went to fix a bottle of formula.

The baby was temporarily passed to He Chong, and Zhou Mo couldn’t help leaning in to take a closer look. The baby didn’t cry, holding her tiny fists by her mouth as her big, bright eyes stared up at the two of them with curiosity.

“Is it a boy or a girl?”

“A girl.” He Chong looked up at her. “Do you want to hold her?”

Zhou Mo hurriedly shook her head. “No, no, no, I’ve never held a baby before, I’m scared.” But the baby’s chubby, rosy cheeks were so tempting that Zhou Mo couldn’t help reaching out to poke one gently.

Fearing Zhou Xian would notice, she quickly pulled her hand back and whispered to He Chong, “So soft!”

He Chong stifled a laugh and said nothing.

Before long, Zhou Xian finished mixing the formula.

He sat on the sofa with a grand, domineering posture, took his baby daughter from He Chong’s arms, and began feeding her from the bottle, one hand gently supporting her head.

The sight brought a phrase to Zhou Mo’s mind: In me the tiger sniffs the rose^[4].

Zhou Xian looked at He Chong. “How many days are you staying this time?”

“We’re leaving on the afternoon of the fourth day of the New Year. We’ll be imposing on you for the next couple of days.”

“It’s a small place, so forgive the meager hospitality. Last time you came to Zhichuan, I happened to be away on a business trip and missed having a meal with you.”

He Chong chuckled. “That’s why I brought someone along to freeload on your food and drink, isn’t it?”

Before the two could chat much longer, Xu Tang, whom Zhou Xian had mentioned, returned.

Xu Tang’s appearance caught Zhou Mo completely by surprise. She had assumed that any woman capable of taming Zhou Xian would possess an even more commanding presence than his. Yet meeting her revealed Xu Tang to be beaming with smiles, soft-spoken, and so petite she seemed frail enough to blow away in a gentle breeze, a stark contrast of softness to his hardness.

Knowing that He Chong and Zhou Mo had not yet eaten lunch, Xu Tang greeted them briefly upon entering before heading straight to the kitchen.

Feeling a bit guilty, Zhou Mo whispered to He Chong, “Can I go help her?”

He Chong gave a soft smile. “Go ahead.”

In the kitchen, Xu Tang was sorting through a bag of vegetables. Seeing Zhou Mo walk in, she asked with a smile, “Are you hungry? I have tomatoes here. Would you like one first?”

Zhou Mo quickly shook her head. “I’m not hungry. I came to help.”

“It’s fine. Go rest outside for a bit. I’ll be done soon.”

But Zhou Rong insisted on helping, so Xu Tang handed her the selected vegetables to wash.

Upon asking, Zhou Mo learned that Xu Tang was a few years older than her, so she called her Sister Xu Tang. Xu Tang gave her an indescribable sense of warmth and familiarity, and after getting to know each other a bit, they hit it off right away.

In the living room, He Chong and Zhou Xian were also chatting animatedly.

Zhou Xian glanced toward the kitchen. “Girlfriend?”

He Chong smiled. “I was actually about to ask for your advice. Back then, when you and the Xu family were like oil and water, how did you manage to win over your mother-in-law?”

Zhou Xian chuckled. “Most people can’t replicate my methods. Is she a rich young lady?”

“Yeah.”

Zhou Xian raised an eyebrow. “Aren’t rich people even easier to handle?”

He Chong laughed. “Fair point. A guy with nothing to lose has nothing to fear, right?”

“She’s also named Zhou?”

“Her father is Zhou Sipei. Have you ever dealt with him?”

Zhou Xian shook his head, paused, and added, “I think I’ve heard the name before.”

“It’s a pretty common name. Not surprising you’ve heard it.”

They chatted warmly, and before they knew it, lunch was ready. Zhou Xian and Xu Tang hadn’t eaten yet either; after receiving He Chong’s message about their arrival, they had specifically waited so they could eat together.

At the table, He Chong and Zhou Xian drank a little alcohol, keeping it light.

After lunch, as Xu Tang was cleaning up the kitchen, she refused to let Zhou Mo help no matter what. She smiled and said, “The weather is lovely today. Why don’t you two go up to the rooftop to soak in some sun?”

Racks were set up on the rooftop with children’s clothes drying. Since people likely frequented the spot, several chairs were placed near the railing. Zhou Mo leaned against the railing and peered outside. The town was filled with self-built houses like this, all three or four stories tall, stretching along the river. Beneath the winter sunlight, the river sparkled softly.

He Chong dragged a chair back a bit, sat down, and asked with a smile, “Did you like lunch?”

Zhou Mo nodded vigorously. “It was delicious.”

She sat down in a chair as well. Having just leaned against the railing in the sun for a short while, she felt pleasantly lazy, not wanting to move an inch.

He Chong glanced at her. She wore a light gray padded jacket, her hair dark as ink and her skin fair and unblemished like a peeled boiled egg. Her delicate aura, clearly that of someone whose hands had never been coarsened by hard work, seemed somewhat out of place in this bustling, noisy town. He had been worried she wouldn’t adjust well to coming here, but now it seemed she was adapting far better than he had imagined.

Then again, He Chong thought, his own place in Yannan Town was much more run-down than this, yet Zhou Mo had taken things in stride all the same.

“How did you and Zhou Xian meet?”

“After I left the south, I stayed in Zhichuan City for a while helping a friend run an auto repair shop. Zhou Xian was living in Zhichuan City back then too. One day he brought his car in for repairs, and over time we got to know each other.”

“Then how did Sister Xu Tang and Zhou Xian meet?”

“They’re both from this town.” He Chong pointed to a building not far away. “Xu Tang’s home is right over there.”

“Their personalities…”

“They don’t seem like they’re from a small town, right? Zhou Xian is a big boss in Zhichuan City now. He runs a pretty large business.”

Zhou Mo sharply picked up on the key word in He Chong’s sentence. “He’s a big boss now… what about before?”

He Chong laughed. “He actually ran around with the wrong crowd for a while, but that was just a cover. In reality, he was an informant for the police and even helped bust a major drug manufacturing and trafficking case.”

Zhou Mo was astonished. “Why are you and all your friends such legendary figures!”

He Chong smiled and said, “Compared to him, I’m nothing.”

“Compared to me, you’re already amazing.”

“You’re still young.”

“Not that young anymore…”

He Chong patted her head gently. “I brought you out to have fun, and yet you’re so down in the dumps.”

Zhou Mo obediently replied, “My mistake.”

In the afternoon, Zhou Xian and Xu Tang took He Chong and Zhou Rong for a stroll around the streets.

Carrying a small shoulder bag, Xu Tang walked ahead happily arm in arm with Zhou Mo. Zhou Xian walked behind with He Chong, holding one child by the hand and carrying another in his arms.

The two towering men looked almost like nannies, making for a somewhat comical sight.

He Chong couldn’t help teasing him, “When I first met you back then, I really never expected you’d turn out like this.”

Zhou Xian narrowed his eyes slightly, his gaze never leaving Xu Tang as she walked ahead through the crowd. “Isn’t this pretty great?”

The world moved like the tide. Beyond the bustling realm of red dust^[5], returning to the mundane and embracing the ordinary was perhaps a blessing in itself.

That evening, He Chong was scheduled to attend a banquet for a senior relative’s ninetieth birthday. In a small town, such celebrations were held as running banquets where guests came and went. Knowing Zhou Mo wouldn’t be used to eating like that, He Chong didn’t plan on bringing her along, entrusting her to Xu Tang’s care instead.

After spending the afternoon together, Zhou Mo and Xu Tang had become practically inseparable. She helped cook, learned to look after the kids… keeping herself busy and loving every minute of it. So when He Chong told her he wasn’t taking her, she was actually delighted. “Go ahead. You don’t need to worry about me.”

He Chong felt mixed emotions. “I might be back a bit late.”

“That’s fine. Come back whenever you want.”

He Chong: “…”

Xu Tang couldn’t help laughing. “Don’t worry, I’ll take good care of Mo Mo.”

He Chong met up with He Zhengkui and his son, He Yifei. After the feast, he spent some time chatting with the guest of honor, and by the time he returned to Zhou Xian’s house, it was already past nine in the evening.

A brazier had been set up in the open concrete area in front of the house, filled with burning charcoal. From a distance, He Chong caught sight of the flickering red glow. Zhou Mo was sitting on a low chair, leaning forward as she poked at the coals with fire tongs. He Chong called out her name and walked over slowly. “Where is everyone?”

“The kids were sleepy, so Sister Xu Tang went to put them to bed.”

“What about Zhou Xian?”

“He had something to take care of and went out.”

There was another empty chair opposite her. He Chong pulled it over and sat down in front of Zhou Mo.

The alcohol from the dinner banquet hadn’t worn off yet. Feeling hot all over, he unbuttoned his coat and loosened the top two buttons of his shirt. He sat turned slightly to the side, resting one arm over the back of the chair as he looked at Zhou Mo out of the corner of his eye.

Specks of ash drifted up from the brazier. Zhou Mo’s face was flushed red by the firelight, her eyes bright and glittering.

He Chong smiled, unable to understand why she was so happy.

“Are you cold?”

Zhou Mo shook her head.

“Want something to eat?”

“We only finished dinner a little while ago.”

He Chong stood up and went inside. Before long, he came back out carrying something. He opened his hand, and three or four plump potatoes rolled onto the ground.

“Hand me the tongs.”

He Chong took the tongs from Zhou Mo, pushed aside the top layer of charcoal, buried the potatoes one by one in the hot ash beneath, and then covered them back up with the coals.

“Will they cook through?”

“They will as long as you don’t mess with them,” He Chong said, setting the tongs aside.

The two sat facing each other. Zhou Mo stared into the brazier until she felt He Chong’s gaze on her. Looking up, her eyes locked with his.

“What are you looking at?”

He Chong smiled. “Why are you so happy?”

“Am I?”

“Should I get a mirror so you can see for yourself?”

Zhou Mo smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “I guess I am then. I really am happy.”

“What’s making you so happy? Tell me.”

The night air was chilly, but the charcoal fire kept her warm. Smiling, she said, “I didn’t realize celebrating the New Year could be this much fun.”

“Then it’s a real shame you didn’t meet me sooner. When I was a kid, running around causing trouble with Yi Fei during the New Year was way more fun than this.”

“It’s not too late now, is it?”

When she looked up, her gaze met He Chong’s once more. Her eyes were so bright that his heart skipped a beat.

He Chong gave a small laugh. “Not too late. We still have decades ahead of us.”

As they were chatting, Xu Tang came downstairs for a moment. She mentioned she had to wash the children’s clothes first and told them to make themselves comfortable. “Sorry for not being a better host.”

He Chong smiled and replied, “Go do what you need to do, don’t worry about us.”

The festive atmosphere of the New Year was much stronger in this small town than in the big cities. Even a street away, the noisy laughter of children nearby could be heard clearly. Somewhere in the neighborhood, a celebration was taking place, with the occasional sound of drums, gongs, and suonas^[6] rising into the air.

Overhead, the chilly stars filled the sky, hanging low as if gathering to join the excitement, so close it felt like one could reach up and touch them.

He Chong lifted the tongs and pushed aside the charcoal and ash, instantly releasing a rich aroma from the brazier. Zhou Mo’s nose twitched. “Smells so good!”

He Chong gave one of the potatoes a gentle poke with the tongs. Sensing they were mostly done, he picked them out one by one. Seeing Zhou Mo reach out to grab one, he immediately swatted her hand away. “Hot!”

Zhou Mo stuck out her tongue playfully.

He Chong went indoors, grabbed a few paper towels, and waited for the potatoes to cool slightly before wrapping one in the towels and peeling off the skin. Zhou Mo watched his every move with greed written all over her face. Amused and helpless, He Chong handed her the half-peeled potato. “Be careful, it’s hot.”

Zhou Mo took it with the paper towels and eagerly took a bite. The heat made her tongue tingle, and she huffed out hot air, chewing twice before immediately giving him a big thumbs-up. “So good!” Her tongue was so burnt her words were slurred.

He Chong burst into laughter. “It’s just a roasted potato. Anyone seeing your reaction would think you were eating some rare delicacy.”

Zhou Mo said indistinctly, “It’s way better than any delicacy.”

The roasted potato had no seasonings added, carrying only its natural flavor, yet in this setting, it truly tasted better than anything she had ever eaten before.

Seeing how happily she was eating, He Chong couldn’t help peeling another one for her. Showing no restraint, she devoured the potato in her hand like a starving ghost^[7] before finally realizing how gluttonous she must look, flashing him an embarrassed smile.

He Chong’s gaze landed on the corner of her lips, where a small crumb of potato clung. He suddenly leaned close, reached out a finger to brush it away gently, and then bent his head to press a soft kiss to her lips.

Zhou Mo’s heart skipped a beat in surprise. Instinctively, she pushed him away. “Someone might see!”

He Chong smiled. “What if they do?”

Zhou Mo glared at him. “We’re at someone else’s house.”

“So it’s fine if we’re at our own home?”

Zhou Mo was left speechless. Unable to win the argument, her face flushed red.

He Chong leaned back and stopped teasing her. Looking at the remaining potatoes, he asked, “Want any more?”

“I’m full.”

Zhou Mo stood up and stretched. Looking into the distance, layers of mountains were shrouded in the night fog, making it impossible to tell which direction Xicheng lay. Although she could already foresee how furious Zhou Sipei and Tang Shulan would be once she returned, the unbridled freedom and joy she felt in this very moment made her willing to face whatever punishment lay ahead.

Zhou Mo murmured, “That’s strange. Aunt Gu didn’t pick me up, so why hasn’t she called me all day?”

He Chong glanced at her, ultimately deciding to pretend he hadn’t heard.

The fire in the charcoal brazier gradually died down. Xu Tang finished washing the clothes, and Zhou Xian returned after finishing his business. They put out the embers, carried the chairs inside, and after washing up, everyone retired to their rooms to rest.

On the third day of the New Year, Zhou Xian and Xu Tang played host, taking them on a tour around Lushan County.

After having lunch at Xu Tang’s parents’ home on the fourth day, He Chong and Zhou Mo prepared to head back together with He Yifei and the others.

Xu Tang was thoughtful and prepared a generous bundle of local specialties for He Chong and the others, packing the Jeep’s trunk full to the brim. She and Zhou Mo had already added each other on WeChat, and she urged Zhou Mo to visit Zhichuan City whenever she had the chance, promising to show her around as host.

In just two or three days, an ironclad friendship seemed to have formed between the two women.

Before leaving, Zhou Xian called He Chong aside to speak with him privately.

He handed He Chong a cigarette, glanced toward the car, and said, “I really have heard of Zhou Sipei. Before the New Year, when I was talking business with someone in Zhichuan City, I heard them mention him. He does import and export, right?”

He Chong nodded. “That’s his main business.”

“I heard the market for that hasn’t been great lately. Everyone in the trade is losing money, including the Zhou family.”

He Chong fell silent, saying nothing for a long moment.

Zhou Xian chuckled. “Like I said, aren’t rich people easy enough to handle?”

From inside the car, Zhou Mo looked over toward He Chong. The two men stood smoking in the wind, both wearing heavy expressions, looking like two secret informants meeting up.

Sitting in the back seat, He Yifei seemed to think so too. Clinging to the back of the front passenger seat, he asked Zhou Mo, “Don’t they look like they’re doing underground secret ops?”

Zhou Mo couldn’t help but smile.

After finishing his conversation with Zhou Xian, He Chong returned to the car.

Zhou Mo had stayed up late chatting with Xu Tang the night before and hadn’t rested well, so she fell asleep shortly after they set off. Before long, He Yifei and He Zhengkui in the back seat were fast asleep as well, slumped every which way.

He Chong turned down the car radio, watched Zhou Mo’s steady breathing, then glanced in the rearview mirror at his uncle and Yi Fei, unable to help a small smile.

The car rolled through the wind, heading toward Xicheng.