Hello, Jie Fen – CH26

Chapter 26: Already So Familiar That It Bears Fruit

At the Milky Way Club.

Xiao Fu was irritated by a clumsy caddie. He lifted his leg and kicked the caddie, his eyes filled with hostility. “Get lost.”

The caddie was kicked so hard that his face turned red. He wasn’t sure whether to put down the golf balls he was holding. Another quick-thinking caddie came over, took the balls from his hands, and replaced him in serving Xiao Fu.

Xiao Chengfeng feigned ignorance and asked, “What’s wrong, bro? Who upset you?”

Xiao Fu coldly replied, “Nothing.”

He threw down his golf club. “I’m done.”

Xiao Chengfeng quickly instructed the caddies to pick up the club. Xiao Fu’s golf club was extremely expensive—over two million yuan, crafted by a master artisan with exceptional feel. Only someone like Xiao Fu would treat it so carelessly.

Striding back to the lounge, Xiao Fu was followed closely by Xiao Chengfeng.

Don’t be fooled by Xiao Fu’s polite demeanor in front of Chi Wang; in reality, his temperament was quite nasty. Xiao Chengfeng had suffered under him numerous times—having wine poured over his head was minor. Xiao Fu had a bad temper and wasn’t afraid to get physical.

What’s more terrifying is that when Xiao Fu targeted and bullied someone, he’d often wear a smile, as if he were just playing around.

It was rare to see him openly display such a foul mood.

Xiao Chengfeng knew the issue lay with that caddie. After all, Xiao Fu had arrived early today but didn’t see the caddie named Chi Wang. He asked other caddies, but no one knew. It was the manager who informed him that Chi Wang had already resigned.

The reason Xiao Chengfeng suspected that Xiao Fu had a thing for Chi Wang was because Xiao Fu was extremely stingy. When they went out, Xiao Chengfeng acted as Xiao Fu’s wallet.

They were cousins; Xiao Fu’s family was powerful and influential. Xiao Chengfeng’s family relied on the scraps from Xiao Fu’s family to live well. Since childhood, his parents had repeatedly told him to please Xiao Fu. Of course, he hadn’t neglected to curry favor with Xie Sicheng, but since Xie hadn’t taken over his family’s power—his father was still in charge—even though he grew up with Xie, he would undoubtedly side with Xiao Fu.

Xiao Fu was stingy; sometimes when giving Xiao Chengfeng projects, he’d inflate the prices. But what could Xiao Chengfeng do? Earning less to maintain his cooperation with Xiao Fu, waving this influential banner, was more beneficial than harmful for him.

Such was Xiao Fu. Last time, when he handed out red envelopes, he didn’t ask Xiao Chengfeng, his wallet, to do it for him but actually used his own money. Could he be blamed for overthinking?

At the time, Xiao Chengfeng found it quite amusing. In their circle, there was someone named Jiang Shaoning, who was 1.89 meters tall, very handsome, and an only child. Just because his sexual orientation was gay, and he was caught by Xiao Fu while messing around with a male student, he was set up and castrated, becoming a eunuch. The Jiang family didn’t dare utter a word.

Too ruthless, too unhinged. Everyone knew that Xiao Fu despised homosexuals. Those with such tendencies hid it well, never letting Xiao Fu find out.

But isn’t there a saying that “homophobia is a deep closet”? Xiao Fu’s father was homosexual; perhaps he was too, just pretending.

Xiao Chengfeng admitted that he did harbor some curiosity and a desire to watch the drama unfold, but he didn’t dare make it too obvious. Teasing once or twice was his limit. Sometimes, he could joke with Xiao Fu, but if he crossed the line, Xiao Fu might just smash a wine bottle over his head with a smile.

Now, Xiao Fu was clearly in a bad mood because of that caddie, but Xiao Chengfeng didn’t dare to ask further.

Xiao Fu’s expression was gloomy, his entire face dark and terrifying. He already looked fierce, and without any pretense, his face appeared even more frightening.

He sat down heavily and beckoned Xiao Chengfeng with a finger. Xiao Chengfeng quickly sat beside him. “Do you need something?”

Xiao Fu suddenly laughed, his face returning to a smile, but it was clearly forced, his eyes cold and intimidating. He said to Xiao Chengfeng, “Help me investigate someone. I don’t need to tell you who, do I? I want to know everything about him.”

Of course, Xiao Chengfeng knew. For a mere caddie, Xiao Fu was going to such lengths. He said, “Alright.”

Who would believe he wasn’t interested in him?

Xiao Fu smiled and said, “Make it quick. I’ll give you a week, okay?”

Xiao Chengfeng hurriedly nodded, “A week is more than enough. Give me three days, and I’ll have all the information for you.”

Xiao Fu nodded, “Alright, three days then.”

His mood seemed to improve again. He said with a smile, “Let’s go, play another round, and then head back to the company.”

Xiao Chengfeng replied, “Sure.”

Xiao Fu was extremely difficult to please and often bullied him, but he was also protective. Occasionally, he’d show some familial affection and overcharge him less. Overall, he wasn’t a bad person.

*

The weather in November was already cold and blustery.

Chi Wang had grown taller this year; his legs had lengthened, and the thick pants he bought before were now too short. So he decided to go shopping for clothes.

Luo Lianyun and Shu Tingyu accompanied him.

Chi Wang was very generous and kind to others but was a bit too harsh on himself, reluctant to spend money on himself.

With them accompanying him, they could prevent Chi Wang from just casually buying something to make do.

Since he had company, Chi Wang boldly spent 500 yuan at a brand-name store to buy two pairs of fleece-lined pants.

He also bought two sets of plush pajamas.

Although mentally mature, given his age, he still liked cartoon-themed items. One pajama set was a green dinosaur onesie, and the other was a long purple coral fleece pajama set with Patrick from Spongebob printed on it. The wise-looking fried-egg-shaped eyes particularly appealed to Chi Wang.

But that wasn’t all; under Luo’s urging, he was taken to buy a pair of snow boots for winter.

In H City, the weather is extreme—sizzling hot in the summer, where they run the air conditioner all night. They pay the electricity bill themselves, and splitting it isn’t too bad. But in winter, they save wherever they can, avoiding using the air conditioner or heater if possible. They can’t stand the heat, but they can cope with the cold by wearing more clothes.

However, this winter, they planned to use the heater. They could spend a bit more money, but since Chi Wang was pregnant, they needed to be cautious. Keeping warm was essential.

Now that he thought about it, Luo realized that Xie bringing meals was actually a good thing. The school’s cafeteria food was clean; students could access the kitchen through the back door and see if the ingredients were fresh.

But after all, it’s mass-produced food. Some lazy staff might just briefly wash the vegetables before chopping and stir-frying them. Before, they might not have cared, but now, continuing to eat at the cafeteria could be risky.

Chi Wang hadn’t become aware of this yet, so Luo had to think more carefully.

Therefore, Luo couldn’t show a cold attitude toward Xie anymore. Although Xie was the main culprit causing Chi Wang’s predicament, at least his attitude was proper.

In the end, Chi Wang spent nearly 2,000 yuan.

He suddenly felt like he was burning through his savings and thought about finding another part-time job.

Just as he was pondering whether there was an easy, high-paying part-time job, Xie’s call came through.

Chi Wang answered, “Hello.”

Xie asked, “Where are you?”

Chi Wang replied, “Out buying clothes.”

Xie: “Buying winter clothes?”

Chi Wang: “Yes, bought quite a bit.”

Xie was silent for a moment, then said, “I’ve bought a lot of clothes for you; you don’t need to buy more.”

Chi Wang was surprised, “Huh? You bought clothes for me?”

Xie: “Yes, a lot… Also, baby clothes, a crib, diapers, formula milk—I bought everything.”

For some reason, Chi Wang blurted out, “Why buy formula milk? I might produce milk myself—wasting money.”

Xie: “…”

Realizing what he said, Chi Wang continued nonchalantly, “Don’t you think I’m right?”

Xie’s voice remained cool, showing no change as he said, “You’re right.”

Chi Wang burst into laughter, “Hahaha.”

His laughter was pleasant—fresh and sunny, without any gloom.

Listening to it, Xie’s breathing became a bit lighter.

After Chi Wang finished laughing, Xie spoke, “Earlier, I invited you to come live with me, but you weren’t ready. Now that you’ve decided to keep the baby, I’d like to invite you to my home again.” After a pause, he added, “Xiaomi misses you.”

Chi Wang hesitated, pondering over this matter.

Xie was right; before, he hadn’t made up his mind and wasn’t in the best mood, giving Xie the cold shoulder.

But now that he had decided to keep the baby, and since Xie could minimize his own losses to the greatest extent, both emotionally and logically, he shouldn’t refuse.

Chi Wang asked, “What about the dorm room next door that you set up? You’re not going to stay there?”

Xie replied, “I’ll keep it. You can come back anytime to stay.”

Chi Wang was a bit surprised, “For me?”

Xie: “Yes. Winter is cold, and bunk beds can be inconvenient. If you want to experience dorm life, you can come back anytime for a short stay.”

With his last concern addressed, Chi Wang said, “I’ll think about it. By the way, when you’re not home these days, who’s taking care of Xiaomi?”

Xie paused and answered calmly, “A friend of mine.”

Chi Wang: “Brother Zuo?”

Xie: “Yes.”

Chi Wang felt a bit sorry for Xiaomi. It seemed that Xie didn’t have a great relationship with Xiaomi; perhaps Zuo Qianxing usually took care of the dog. Xie was somewhat neglectful as an owner.

In other words, if he couldn’t even take care of a dog, could he be expected to take care of a child?

If the baby was born, it would probably end up being raised by a nanny.

But there was no choice; Chi Wang was powerless. It was good enough that he could let the baby be born. If a nanny raised the child, so be it. He could visit during holidays, show some paternal concern.

And that would be it!

Thinking this way, it didn’t seem like a big deal.

Chi Wang had actually already made up his mind, but he felt that agreeing too quickly would be a bit awkward.

After buying clothes, they decided to have dinner outside as well.

They went to the same small restaurant, but this time there were already four people (X).

Chi Wang, who hadn’t vomited in a while, threw up again and couldn’t eat anything. So he ordered a cup of kumquat juice and nibbled on some noodle sheets to fill his stomach.

This time, he finally realized why he was retching—it turned out to be morning sickness.

After reading some information, Chi Wang knew that his pregnancy nausea wasn’t too severe. As long as he avoided greasy and heavy foods, he basically felt fine.

Other pregnancy symptoms like drowsiness he had somewhat overcome; his afternoon naps could be shortened to half an hour.

By evening, Chi Wang gave Xie his answer: “Okay, I’ll go live with you. I haven’t lived in a big villa before.”

Xie replied: “It’s not big, but it’s close to the school.”

Chi Wang said, “‘Not big’? I order you, stop showing off.”

Xie: “…”

Seeing the string of ellipses he sent, Chi Wang found it amusing.

Then, he belatedly realized that he was no longer as unfamiliar with Xie as before.

He didn’t know when it happened, but he could casually joke around with this person.

Chi Wang thought calmly that it was normal. After all this time, it’s impossible not to be familiar—they were already so familiar they’d had a child together. How could they not be familiar?

Putting down his phone, Chi Wang told Luo Lianyun and Shu Tingyu about his decision to move out.

Luo was okay, but Shu’s reluctance was written all over his face. He tried to persuade him, “Do you really have to go? Can that Xie Sicheng take good care of you? I can take care of you! I can wash your clothes, save you a seat, carry your backpack. You can stay in the dorm.”

Luo said, “Alright, stop it. Actually, thinking about it, staying in the dorm all the time isn’t reasonable. When your belly gets bigger, you won’t be able to hide it here; dorm inspections will be a big hassle.”

Shu wasn’t unreasonable; hearing Luo say this, he shut his mouth but couldn’t help sighing.

Chi Wang comforted him, “It’s okay. I’ll keep the bed for me. Once I ‘unload the goods,’ I’ll come back.”

Luo felt that he was making it sound too simple. People’s hearts are the most unpredictable, and moreover, Chi Wang was actually very kind—he was good to everyone but not good enough to himself. Now, the baby in his belly was still very small; he didn’t feel it and could treat it rationally. But once the baby was born and Chi Wang saw him, emotions would inevitably surge.

But at this time, Luo wouldn’t say anything discouraging. He helped comfort Shu and started packing his things together.

Chi Wang had quite a lot of miscellaneous items; he was always learning new things. He had learned to weave braided bracelets and had accumulated some colorful threads and beads that hadn’t been used up. He had also learned knitting and had knitted scarves and sweaters for them. He was quick with his hands and smart; after a week of learning, he could knit patterned sweaters with tight stitches, using good yarn. After knitting a set for each of them, he still hadn’t used up all the yarn, which was piled in the corner and now taken out.

Shu asked, “Are you taking this too?”

Chi Wang said, “Yep. Since I’m not walking the dog at night anymore, I have time to knit you two some woolen pants.”

Luo laughed, “Forget about the woolen pants; we can’t fit them under our trousers—they’re too bulky.”

Chi Wang said naturally, “Then I’ll knit you two sweaters and cup sleeves.”

Shu said, “No need, don’t trouble yourself. Just rest well.”

They continued packing and discovered that Chi Wang had learned quite a few skills. In one bag, there was a tool for turning beads, which was quite heavy. The two of them had never seen it before; he probably bought it during the holidays. They couldn’t help but ask, “Why did you buy this? Is turning beads a skill?”

Chi Wang smiled and said, “Developing a factory skill.”

Luo: “…”

Shu: “…”

Wait, you…

They weren’t envious of Chi Wang making money; he deserved it.

But what kind of factory needs bead-turning?

Chi Wang said, “Bead-turning worker. Skilled workers can earn over ten thousand a month.”

Luo said, “Alright. But do you need to bring this too?”

Chi Wang said, “Sure, when I’m stressed, I can turn beads for fun.”

After packing like this, there was nothing Chi Wang didn’t bring.

Some items that even Luo thought were junk, Chi Wang wanted to take—he always felt they might come in handy.

Wait, so he’s emptying out the dorm—is he really coming back?

After packing almost everything, Chi Wang asked Xie to help him move.

Xie drove over.

He hadn’t driven himself much in recent years, and after not driving for a while, he was a bit rusty.

Parking the car downstairs of the dormitory building, he came up to help Chi Wang move his things. At a glance, he saw all sorts of miscellaneous items, his expression a bit complicated, but he didn’t say anything.

With that cold, emotionless face, he carried two suitcases down for Chi Wang, one in each hand.

Not to say that Chi Wang wasn’t familiar with Xie, but in fact, many guys didn’t pay attention to things on the forums and didn’t really know Xie; they just thought he was handsome. More importantly, he drove a nice car—even though it was a Porsche worth over a million yuan, for college students, why are you driving a luxury car?

So it did attract a lot of attention.

Especially when they saw Chi Wang getting into the car, they were even more surprised. Many people asked Luo about the situation.

Luo found an excuse to brush them off and didn’t stop everyone from gossiping.

Not many people in their department knew Xie, but everyone knew Chi Wang. Back when the forums were selecting campus heartthrobs, Luo had rallied a lot of votes, painting the picture of social events and such. You could say Chi Wang was the poster boy for their Electrical Engineering department’s social events.

Moreover, he was good at talking, could handle things, and even the teachers liked him. It was said that some professional course teachers intended to train him as an assistant; after graduation, staying at the university was also a path.

Once someone with some fame got involved in gossip, it became lively.

But even if they racked their brains, they couldn’t imagine Chi Wang’s situation, so the buzz died down quickly without causing much of a stir.

And that very night, Chi Wang moved into Xie’s home just like that.

He also got a big bedroom full of capitalist flair.

Chi Wang first put all the stuff he brought into the room.

Xie glanced in from the doorway, just in time to see Chi Wang partitioning areas—placing the bead-turning machine in one spot, yarn in another, a bracelet fixture in another, and his toolkit in yet another.

He arranged the spacious bedroom to be fully occupied, not wasting any space.

Xie: “…”

Very good.