Chapter 57: Listen carefully
Common sense was sothing Xu Qing wasn't always sure Jiang He understood, nor did he know whether what she did understand was correct or incorrect.
Jiang He herself often didn't know if what she knew was still applicable or accurate in this context. The clash between modern and ancient knowledge made it difficult for her to distinguish between valid common sense and outdated, subverted knowledge.
And so, the Dark Forest of Common Sense was born...
Whenever Jiang He seed unsure about sothing or might not understand it, Xu Qing would imdiately enter "educational mode," nipping any potential hazards in the bud.
"So, don't think just because it's a ti of peace, everything is actually peaceful. There will always be bad people, so stay alert... Have you noticed you've been pretty relaxed lately?"
"Really?"
After staying here for nearly half a year, Jiang He hadn't considered this question. Now, with Xu Qing's reminder, she realized the change.
"Don't worry, it's a good thing. Being on edge all the ti, feeling like soone is out to get you, isn't healthy. But you still need to stay cautious."
Xu Qing smiled at her changing expression, put down his chopsticks, wiped his mouth, and said, "I just don't want you to think everything is great and end up getting fooled. I'm telling you this because where there's light, there's also darkness — it's just a matter of degree. Like those shady casinos in Macau, with those 'beautiful live dealers'… most of them are scams. Don't trust that stuff."
"Oh." Jiang He nodded, then paused, "How do you know about that?"
"Ah?"
Xu Qing blinked. "Uh, I just happened to see you clicking on one of those things, so I thought I'd warn you."
"Really?" Jiang He looked skeptical.
"Yes." Xu Qing's expression was serious and sincere.
This girl was learning too fast. Last ti, he saw her browsing history and even spotted those live dealer links. It scared him into downloading the 365 Protection Pack imdiately. That might not stop others, but it would definitely stop Jiang He — she could recognize the big red exclamation marks and danger signs.
Jiang He said no more, turned back to her screen, and continued searching on Baidu, lost in thought.
Xu Qing leaned back on the couch to rest. After tidying up the dishes in the kitchen, he ca back, resud his slouched position, and stared at her back, deep in thought.
He wondered what it would feel like to hold her in his arms… The more he looked, the more he wanted to hug this cute little seedling.
It turned out that impulsive thoughts after drinking could be suppressed by sheer force of will.
"What did you think of my dad the last ti you saw him?" he asked suddenly.
Jiang He turned around, confused. "What do you an?"
"What did you think of him?"
"Uh… I don't know."
"You'll understand eventually. He's just an old-fashioned man. Ever since I was a kid, he kept telling to study hard and do well… basically, to bury myself in books. He was strict, never smiled, always serious, always demanding."
Xu Qing gestured to his head. "Rember that photo with the red hair?"
"Yeah, I rember." Jiang He turned away from the computer, listening intently.
"Other families go out and have fun together, but not mine. He either did his own thing or lectured . Sotis, he even whipped with a belt. He doesn’t do that anymore, but his stubbornness hasn't changed. He still wants to get a 'proper' job, like he’s stuck in the past."
"Don't you already have a job?" Jiang He asked, puzzled.
"He doesn’t think it's a real job. That’s the generation gap. We just can’t communicate."
Xu Qing sighed. "I know he ans well, but his way of showing it isn't right. It caused a lot of misunderstandings between us. Sotis, I envy other families. They eat together, talk, and go for walks. I never had that. I just wanted a smile or a hug, but it never happened. It's just wishful thinking."
"…"
Jiang He nodded vaguely, sensing his frustration. Her hand slowed as she petted Winter lon, listening seriously.
"Since I can rember, he's never hugged . Not even once. I always thought if he could hug just once, our relationship might improve. But it never happened. I don't even know what that feels like…"
"So, could you hug , just so I know what it’s like?" Xu Qing asked sincerely.
"…"
Jiang He froze mid-pet.
What? How did this involve her?
"Never mind. You're not him, after all. I just wanted to know what it feels like, but… forget it if you don’t want to." Xu Qing shook his head, looking disappointed.
"You… you…"
Jiang He struggled for words. "Do you always think about these things when you drink?"
"No. The alcohol just brings out what I usually keep inside. I feel like this all the ti; I just don’t show it."
"…"
"…"
"We’re innocent. It’s just a hug if needed. Don't feel burdened by it."
Xu Qing glanced at her. "I don't know when he'll… Never mind, you can’t help with this."
"Then… then…" Jiang He looked down at Winter lon, then at Xu Qing. "If you really want to, and it's just a hug, right?"
"Don’t force yourself. I'm overthinking."
"…"
Jiang He hesitated, listening to him sigh again, then finally stood up. "So… how do I do it?"
"Huh?" Xu Qing was surprised.
"I'll help you. It’s just a small thing."
"This…"
"We’re innocent. My conscience is clear." Jiang He’s expression was serious.
It was just a favor… maybe it could help improve his relationship with his father.
"Co here, closer… Right, now spread your arms."
Xu Qing closed his eyes and took a deep breath. The faint scent of her shampoo lingered in her hair. She felt warm, nothing like the tough martial artist he imagined.
It felt nice.
"Is… is that enough?" Jiang He asked quietly. The closeness made her uncomfortable, and her heart was beating faster.
My conscience is clear. My conscience is clear.
A young hero needed help, so she helped.
"Wait." Xu Qing tilted his head. "Listen."
"Listen to what?"
The living room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Jiang He perked her ears, straining to hear sothing.
But there was nothing.
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