Chapter 19
Lu Xuefeng received the new message and casually clicked on the chat window.
Then he immediately backed out.
He hadn’t expected Yin Xiaoyu to send him such a link; the title was too blunt.
His reflexes were quick. He had already opened the link, but realizing it was inappropriate, he quickly exited.
Lu Xuefeng sat there, his face flushing slightly.
Song Muqing noticed his flustered reaction. “What’s wrong?”
Lu Xuefeng maintained a calm facade, explaining softly, “I clicked on a spam website.”
Song Muqing, his hand on the steering wheel, his gaze returning to the road ahead, chuckled softly, not questioning his explanation or asking why he had suddenly clicked on such a link. “Just close it.”
“Yes.”
Lu Xuefeng looked back at his phone.
He replied: ? What’s that about?
Yin Xiaoyu: Concerned for your happiness. Remember to read it.
Lu Xuefeng: …
Lu Xuefeng: I’m not asexual.
Yin Xiaoyu: Whatever. I’m mainly worried about your Professor Song.
Lu Xuefeng paused, glancing at Song Muqing, then typed: “He’s probably not either.”
He remembered Song Muqing’s regular health check-ups and his claims of good health, unlikely to have any physical issues.
Lu Xuefeng used the word “probably.”
He couldn’t be certain, as it was currently unverifiable, and sometimes, Song Muqing did seem… rather aloof.
Lu Xuefeng calmly replied and closed the chat window.
“Are you feeling hot?”
Song Muqing glanced over, noticing the slight flush on Lu Xuefeng’s cheeks, perhaps from the stuffy air. “Open the window if you need some air.”
“It’s fine.”
Lu Xuefeng discreetly touched his face; it was a bit warm.
He hadn’t thought it was that noticeable.
After a while, Song Muqing realized Lu Xuefeng had only started blushing after opening the link.
He doubted it was just a spam website.
He looked over gently while waiting at a red light, curiosity in his voice. “What was it, really?”
Lu Xuefeng met his gaze: “…”
Song Muqing, seeing he wasn’t going to answer, didn’t press further.
But the amusement in his eyes lingered.
He thought Lu Xuefeng looked different when he blushed, rather endearing.
Lu Xuefeng couldn’t explain; it was too embarrassing.
Fortunately, Song Muqing’s mother called, asking when they would arrive.
“Don’t worry,” Song Muqing glanced at the traffic light timer. “We’re on our way.”
“You think we’re waiting impatiently for you? We want to meet Xuefeng.”
Her tone sounded eager.
Song Muqing had the call on speakerphone, so Lu Xuefeng could hear her as well.
After she said this, Song Muqing glanced at him, his eyes saying: See? My family likes you.
Mu Ting’s voice was warm and friendly. She had addressed him as “Xuefeng” before even meeting him.
She didn’t seem like a difficult person to get along with.
Lu Xuefeng felt less nervous.
“We know. We’ll be there soon,” Song Muqing replied.
Mu Ting didn’t want to distract him from driving and quickly ended the call.
After parking, they retrieved the gifts for his parents from the back seat.
“Let me carry one,” Lu Xuefeng offered.
Song Muqing handed him the lighter gift bag.
He paused, looking at Lu Xuefeng’s face. “Are you nervous?”
“No,” Lu Xuefeng replied.
“Good.”
They took the elevator upstairs together.
At the door, Song Muqing rang the doorbell.
As the door opened, Mu Ting peeked out, seeing her son first.
“Ringing the doorbell at your own house? Don’t you have keys?”
Her face was alight with joy, her words teasing, but her happiness became even more evident when she saw Lu Xuefeng.
The young man before her was exceptionally handsome, tall and elegant, exceeding her expectations.
Mu Ting was both delighted and slightly flustered, a bit nervous about their first meeting, her demeanor overly welcoming.
“You must be Xuefeng?” she asked with a smile.
Just then, Song Hongfan also came to greet them.
Lu Xuefeng straightened his posture and, without prompting, addressed them as “Mom and Dad.”
His future in-laws were much as he had imagined, refined and approachable.
His address warmed their hearts, and they responded happily.
Mu Ting quickly ushered them inside. “Come in, come in.”
They carried the gifts inside, and Song Muqing explained, “Xuefeng bought these for you.”
“Xuefeng is so thoughtful. Next time, there’s no need to bring anything. We’re family now; no need for such formalities,” Mu Ting said.
Song Hongfan also said there was no need to spend money, but since he had already bought them, it was the thought that counted. He took the gifts and set them aside.
Hearing Song Muqing’s voice, Ollie came running, trying to jump on him.
However, he was quickly distracted by Lu Xuefeng.
He had never met Lu Xuefeng before, but Ollie was naturally friendly and unafraid of strangers, so he wagged his tail, looking up at Lu Xuefeng.
The chubby dog’s big, innocent eyes were hard for Lu Xuefeng to resist.
He asked Song Muqing if he could pet him.
Song Muqing said yes.
Lu Xuefeng squatted down, tentatively petting Ollie’s head. “Ollie.”
Ollie responded enthusiastically, wagging his tail vigorously, eager to jump on Lu Xuefeng and play.
He was quite heavy, and Song Muqing, fearing Lu Xuefeng might not be able to handle his exuberance, gently pushed Ollie back.
“Ollie likes you,” Song Muqing said.
Mu Ting called Ollie away. “Come on, the rest of the family is waiting to meet you.”
The rest of the family…?
Lu Xuefeng was momentarily taken aback, then followed Song Muqing.
Several relatives were sitting on the sofa in the spacious living room, along with a little girl, about six or seven years old. They all looked at Song Muqing and his husband.
Lu Xuefeng hadn’t expected so many people, all unfamiliar faces, and he was slightly overwhelmed.
“Oh dear, I couldn’t keep it a secret. Everyone wanted to meet Xuefeng when they heard he was coming. Well, it’s more lively this way.”
Mu Ting said apologetically, then went to greet everyone.
“Uncle!” The little girl dashed over and hugged Song Muqing, sneaking glances at Lu Xuefeng.
Song Muqing habitually patted Yao Yao’s head.
Then, he took Lu Xuefeng’s hand, offering silent support.
“This is Yao Yao,” Song Muqing introduced.
He introduced not only Lin Xiyao but also his aunt, uncle, younger aunt, and his cousin, Lin Yue.
All eager to meet Lu Xuefeng.
As Song Muqing made the introductions, Lu Xuefeng greeted each of them politely.
They all gave him red envelopes.
He also received numerous compliments.
The atmosphere was lively and festive.
Even Lin Xiyao politely addressed Lu Xuefeng as “Little Uncle,” praising his good looks.
Her childish admiration amused everyone.
Lu Xuefeng, experiencing such a warm and boisterous family atmosphere for the first time, felt slightly out of place.
They all sat down to chat, and Song Hongfan excused himself to the kitchen to finish preparing the soup.
Mu Ting stayed with them, making conversation, while Ollie played happily with Yao Yao.
Song Muqing mentioned that Song Hongfan was an excellent cook, specializing in complex dishes, rarely showcasing his skills except for special occasions or holidays.
Lu Xuefeng wasn’t very talkative, and Song Muqing often spoke for him, preventing any awkward silences.
Soon, Song Hongfan called them for dinner.
Lu Xuefeng and Song Muqing put food in Ollie’s bowl and gave him a large bone to chew on.
They washed their hands and sat down.
The dining table was laden with dishes, fish, shrimp, ribs, various stir-fries, a balanced and colorful spread, fragrant and delicious.
“Xuefeng, I made a variety of dishes, not knowing your preferences.”
Lu Xuefeng quickly replied, “They all look delicious.”
“Let me tell you, whenever Old Song cooks, everyone raves about it,” his aunt chimed in.
His younger aunt added, “He won Mu Ting over with his cooking skills back then.”
Mu Ting chuckled, waving her hand dismissively. “That was ages ago, no need to bring it up.”
“It’s true,” Song Hongfan readily admitted, adding, “It wasn’t just my cooking; it was also my charisma.”
“Look at him, boasting again,” Mu Ting glanced at him, then turned to Lu Xuefeng warmly. “He’s always like this. Just ignore him.”
Lu Xuefeng smiled softly.
The atmosphere at the table was warm and welcoming.
Song Hongfan and his brother-in-law had some baijiu, a celebratory drink.
Everyone else had soft drinks.
Lu Xuefeng sat there, Song Muqing beside him, his in-laws across from him.
“Xuefeng, help yourself to whatever you like. I won’t serve you, in case you don’t like something.”
Mu Ting then gave her son a meaningful look, urging him to serve Lu Xuefeng some food.
Song Muqing peeled a few crayfish for Lu Xuefeng, placing the tender shrimp meat in his bowl until Lu Xuefeng said, “That’s enough, thank you.” He then turned to Yao Yao, asking if she wanted some.
“So attentive. I thought Xiao Song would be a bachelor forever,” Lin Yue remarked while they ate. “Back in university, some of my friends were interested in him, but he wasn’t interested in any of them.”
“You never know. Marriage is about fate and timing.”
“There’s no need to rush such things.”
“Hey?” his younger aunt asked curiously. “How did you two get together? I never heard Xiao Song mention having a boyfriend. Was it a blind date?”
“Who pursued whom?”
They looked at Lu Xuefeng, curious to hear his answer.
Lu Xuefeng paused, his hand hovering over his plate, unsure how to respond.
He hadn’t prepared a story and felt slightly awkward.
“Not exactly,” Song Muqing wiped his hands with a napkin, smoothly taking over. “I liked him first.”
Lu Xuefeng’s heart skipped a beat.
He glanced at Song Muqing, who looked back at him, the corner of his lips curving upwards.
As if telling him not to worry.
Song Muqing explained that they had gradually gotten to know each other and naturally fallen in love.
His expression was serious, betraying no hint of deception.
Lu Xuefeng’s eyelashes fluttered; he felt a pang of guilt and lowered his eyes.
His ears felt warm.
How could he…
Lie so naturally and convincingly?
“You hid it well.”
Everyone seemed to believe him, not doubting his words.
It seemed that in their eyes, Song Muqing was an honest person.
The dinner was enjoyable, filled with stories about Song Muqing’s childhood and family anecdotes. The atmosphere was warm and harmonious.
After dinner, Lu Xuefeng offered to help clear the table, but Mu Ting insisted he rest, saying she would handle it.
Song Muqing helped tidy up, carrying the dishes to the kitchen.
Mu Ting packed the leftovers and, seeing him enter, asked, “By the way, isn’t Xun Ke returning soon?”
“Yes, he messaged me.”
Xun Ke was a high school friend, now a close friend. He came from a family of doctors and had gone abroad for further studies two years ago.
Mu Ting paused. “Perhaps he could take a look at Xuefeng’s grandmother’s case.”
“I was thinking the same thing.”
Song Muqing had this in mind but hadn’t mentioned it to Lu Xuefeng yet.
He needed to ask Xun Ke first.
After their brief conversation, Song Muqing rejoined the others and saw Yao Yao pestering Lu Xuefeng with questions about dancing.
Yao Yao was no longer shy around Lu Xuefeng, chatting animatedly, clearly quite fond of him.
Song Muqing walked over, teasing, “Yao Yao, you’re sitting next to Little Uncle. Where should I sit?”
Yao Yao pointed to the other side of Lu Xuefeng. “Uncle Song, you can sit there, next to him too.”
Her words amused everyone.
They sat and chatted for a while longer, enjoying some fruit and the desserts Mu Ting had baked.
As the other relatives were leaving, Mu Ting emerged from her room and pressed a red envelope and a small gift box into Lu Xuefeng’s hands.
“A small meeting gift.”
The red envelope wasn’t thick. Lu Xuefeng, feeling the thin, hard cards inside, guessed what it was.
“The passwords are inside. It’s your wedding date.”
Lu Xuefeng hesitated, unsure whether to accept it.
“It’s a small token of appreciation from Mom and Dad for Xuefeng’s first visit. Take it,” Mu Ting urged.
He couldn’t refuse.
Song Muqing also said, “Take it.”
Lu Xuefeng accepted the gifts, thanking them. “Thank you, Mom and Dad. I’ll accept them.”
“We know about your grandmother’s situation. We’ll visit her properly later.”
Mu Ting looked at Lu Xuefeng, knowing he didn’t have much family, and couldn’t resist gently patting his head, her eyes kind. “Don’t worry. Now that you’re part of our family, things will get better.”
Lu Xuefeng’s hand clenched slightly, and for some reason, he felt a lump in his throat.
“Yes,” he nodded.
Song Muqing took his hand.
“As long as you two are happy, we’re relieved,” Song Hongfan added.
“We know. We’ll be going then.”
Song Muqing bid them farewell, declining their offer to see them off.
His parents didn’t insist, reminding them to be careful and to send a message when they arrived home.
They agreed and left.
Inside the gift box was a beautiful, translucent jade pendant, symbolizing happiness and well-being.
Lu Xuefeng closed the box, handing both the red envelope and the gift to Song Muqing.
“Mom and Dad gave these to you; you should keep them.”
Song Muqing didn’t accept them; he couldn’t take the gifts intended for Lu Xuefeng.
As the elevator descended, Lu Xuefeng thought for a moment, then said, “…Actually, you didn’t have to say that.”
“Say what?” Song Muqing looked at him.
“That you like me.”
There wasn’t any real romantic love between them; it could be misleading.
Of course, he understood Song Muqing had said that to create a positive atmosphere for his family, to reassure them.
It was also out of consideration for him, to avoid any awkwardness.
“But I already said it.”
Song Muqing admitted frankly. He could tell Lu Xuefeng wasn’t averse to the idea, just needing time to adjust.
So, he was willing to give him time.
“Sorry,” he apologized softly.
Lu Xuefeng said it was alright, no need to apologize.
Song Muqing touched Lu Xuefeng’s hand, a gesture of reassurance, his tone both gentle and sincere. “I’ll continue to say it.”
Because everyone already believed it.
And Song Muqing was willing to maintain the pretense.
He wouldn’t put Lu Xuefeng in a difficult position.
Song Muqing’s parents had to return to their hometown for a while and planned to take Ollie with them.
Song Muqing had discussed this with Lu Xuefeng beforehand.
Mu Ting hadn’t insisted, simply asking if they could take care of Ollie. If not, they could send him to his aunt’s or a boarding facility; they wouldn’t be gone long.
Lu Xuefeng had no objections.
When he was young, a stray dog had wandered into their lives, a small, scruffy thing, but very well-behaved, always lingering near his grandmother’s shop.
Lu Xuefeng and his grandmother had fed it a few times, and it had stayed, often sitting by the entrance, keeping his grandmother company.
Until one day, it disappeared and never returned.
Back then, Lu Xuefeng had been focused on his studies and dance, not deeply attached to the dog, but he had still been saddened by its disappearance.
Lu Xuefeng liked dogs, though he hadn’t considered getting a pet.
He wasn’t sure he could be responsible for another life.
But Song Muqing’s family could.
They had taken good care of Ollie.
It seemed Song Muqing was also good with animals, so Lu Xuefeng agreed, especially since Ollie seemed to like him.
On the day his parents left for their hometown, Lu Xuefeng and Song Muqing went to pick up Ollie.
Not just Ollie, but also his bed, toys, food, and treats.
Even for a short stay, they wanted him to be comfortable.
Ollie, always friendly, was even more enthusiastic on his second encounter with Lu Xuefeng, circling him excitedly, jumping up and pawing at him.
“He wants you to pet him,” Song Muqing said.
Lu Xuefeng squatted down, petting Ollie’s head and furry body.
Ollie, enjoying the attention, lay on the floor, his tongue lolling out, then rolled over, exposing his belly, clearly wanting to play.
Song Muqing, seeing this, smiled.
“Play with him for a bit. I’ll pack his things.”
Mu Ting and Song Hongfan had already left. Ollie’s things weren’t many, and Song Muqing knew what to take.
So, Lu Xuefeng stayed with Ollie.
On their way back, Ollie sat quietly in the back seat.
He was used to car rides.
After a while, he tried to climb into the front.
Song Muqing told him to sit.
Ollie reluctantly obeyed.
“Ollie is smitten with you,” Song Muqing said, glancing at the dog in the rearview mirror.
“I didn’t expect him to like me.”
Lu Xuefeng hadn’t thought he was the type animals were drawn to.
Song Muqing raised an eyebrow, amusement in his voice. “Do you have a low opinion of yourself?”
Lu Xuefeng looked at him. “Hmm?”
Song Muqing, still driving, looked straight ahead.
“You’re very likable,” he said, making a turn. “Animals like you too.”
The early winter afternoon sun streamed in, and a ray of light fell across Lu Xuefeng’s face, making him squint.
The car felt warm and comfortable.
Lu Xuefeng thought Ollie was simply a friendly dog, but Song Muqing always gave him the credit, using it as an opportunity to compliment him.
Song Muqing was always praising him.
“It’s because Ollie is a good boy,” Lu Xuefeng said.
As soon as he said this, before Song Muqing could reply, Ollie perked up in the back.
Hearing his name, he became excited, pawing at the seat and barking.
“Quiet, Ollie,” Song Muqing said calmly.
His voice, though gentle, held an authority that Ollie respected.
Ollie immediately settled down.
“He gets overly excited when praised.”
Song Muqing knew Ollie well.
Lu Xuefeng thought Song Muqing’s demeanor just now was very much like a teacher’s.
He glanced at Song Muqing, imagining him in a classroom.
Thinking of this, Lu Xuefeng smiled.
Their home was a new environment for Ollie, so he explored excitedly.
After they settled his things, Ollie, having familiarized himself with the surroundings, came to play.
They lived with Ollie for the next few days.
Lu Xuefeng adapted well, as Ollie was obedient.
So, taking care of him wasn’t difficult.
Ollie liked chewing on slippers, so they bought extra pairs.
Because of Ollie, they had a new routine. After visiting his grandmother, they would take him for a walk.
This was a new experience for Lu Xuefeng.
Despite the early winter chill, they were bundled up warmly.
Song Muqing always reminded him to dress warmly.
“Your hands are always so cold,” Song Muqing remarked.
“They’ve always been this way,” Lu Xuefeng replied.
He was used to it.
At night, Song Muqing would make him wear thicker gloves or a scarf.
Sometimes, Song Muqing would hold Ollie’s leash in one hand and Lu Xuefeng’s hand in the other, tucking it into his pocket.
They would stroll like this.
Even in winter, there were people at the square.
Ollie, with his fluffy white fur and cheerful demeanor, was popular.
People often asked to pet him.
Ollie loved the attention.
One day, Lu Xuefeng went to buy hot drinks. Returning, he saw Song Muqing talking on the phone in the resting area, a faint smile on his face.
Ollie sat quietly beside him.
As Lu Xuefeng approached, Song Muqing seemed to sense his presence and turned, smiling at him.
Ollie also came over, wagging his tail.
Lu Xuefeng handed him the coffee, sitting beside him silently, waiting for him to finish his call.
“Okay… we’ll talk when we meet. I’ll hang up now.”
Song Muqing ended the call.
“Aren’t you going to continue talking?” Lu Xuefeng asked, feeling their conversation hadn’t ended.
Song Muqing held the warm cup. “It’s better to discuss it in person.”
Lu Xuefeng replied with an “Oh,” petting Ollie’s head.
That was Song Muqing’s social life; Lu Xuefeng wouldn’t interfere.
Song Muqing took a sip of coffee, then said, “It was my high school classmate, Xun Ke. He just returned from abroad.”
Lu Xuefeng looked at him, slightly surprised he had mentioned his friend.
“He comes from a family of doctors.”
Lu Xuefeng paused, then looked at him, understanding the implication.
Song Muqing explained that Xun Ke was a spinal surgeon, but his father was a vice president and chief expert at the Wuling Medical University Affiliated Hospital.
He had performed numerous heart surgeries and could review his grandmother’s case.
While Xun Ke was abroad, Song Muqing hadn’t wanted to impose. He hadn’t expected him to return so soon. They could meet and discuss the matter.
“Wouldn’t it be too much trouble for him?” Lu Xuefeng asked, feeling it would be a significant favor to ask.
“No,” Song Muqing explained. “We’re good friends. He’s willing to inquire, but whether surgery is possible depends on the situation.”
“Okay.”
Lu Xuefeng knew he didn’t have many options.
They discussed this further at home and also spoke with Xun Ke.
They met with him soon after.
Lu Xuefeng finally met Xun Ke.
Xun Ke was around Song Muqing’s age, and they were clearly close friends.
Xun Ke had known about Song Muqing’s marriage but was still surprised when he met Lu Xuefeng.
Song Muqing’s spouse wasn’t what he had expected, rather reserved and aloof.
But they seemed comfortable together.
Xun Ke felt it was their unique dynamic.
During their conversation, Xun Ke apologized for not having a wedding gift, having just returned, and offered to treat them to dinner after settling in. He would also help with Lu Xuefeng’s grandmother’s situation.
Lu Xuefeng thanked him and shared his grandmother’s medical records.
After receiving confirmation from Xun Ke, they arranged for his grandmother’s transfer to the affiliated hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
Song Hongfan and Mu Ting returned around that time.
That afternoon, after work, Song Muqing took Ollie to the groomer, then to a boarding facility.
Lu Xuefeng went to the hospital. His grandmother was still under observation and had undergone several tests.
The results should be available today.
Lu Xuefeng needed to meet with Dr. Xun Zhihai.
It was important, so Song Muqing urged him to go first, saying he would join him later.
Leaving the groomer’s, Song Muqing rushed to the hospital, messaging Lu Xuefeng.
Lu Xuefeng told him to come directly to the ward.
Lu Xuefeng had just finished speaking with Dr. Xun.
Song Muqing exited the elevator and turned right.
A golden light illuminated the end of the long corridor.
Lu Xuefeng stood by the ward door, bathed in the warm glow.
He looked down, lost in thought.
Song Muqing walked towards him silently.
“Xuefeng,” he called softly.
Lu Xuefeng looked up, meeting Song Muqing’s gentle gaze.
He said quietly, “Grandma is asleep.”
So, he was waiting outside.
“Okay,” Lu Xuefeng looked at him. “What did Dr. Xun say?”
The subtle detachment in his expression vanished.
“He said surgery is possible, and the success rate is quite high.”
For the first time, Song Muqing saw unconcealed joy in Lu Xuefeng’s eyes.
So bright, so radiant.
“That’s wonderful.” Song Muqing was genuinely happy for him.
The good news was precious, a release after days of worry.
Lu Xuefeng felt relieved, but also a pang of emotion as he looked at Song Muqing.
It had been a long and arduous journey.
Seeing the emotions in his eyes, the slight furrow of his brow, Song Muqing felt a surge of empathy and wanted to hug him.
Almost without hesitation, he embraced Lu Xuefeng tightly.
“Xuefeng, your grandmother will be okay. She will.”
Lu Xuefeng was taken by surprise, enveloped in a warm embrace.
His hands hung by his sides, slightly stunned.
Song Muqing’s gentle yet firm words were reassuring, giving him hope.
He realized he needed this hug, a moment of comfort.
Like a heart finally finding a place to land.
And Song Muqing was there to catch him.
So, Lu Xuefeng hugged him back, resting his head on his shoulder, closing his eyes, fighting back tears. “Yes, she will.”
After the initial joy, the embrace tightened, their bodies close.
Heart to heart.
Song Muqing’s embrace was warm and comforting.
Lu Xuefeng slowly came to his senses. This was their first hug.
So intimate.
His heart was beating fast.
He realized he had acted impulsively, hugging him back.
He had never embraced anyone so closely before.
Regaining his composure, he pulled away, his face warm, but his expression still calm.
“Thank you, Song Muqing.”
He truly owed him a great deal.
“I told you, no thanks between family.”
After the hug, Lu Xuefeng avoided his gaze.
Song Muqing tilted his head slightly, meeting his eyes.
“Are you embarrassed?”
Lu Xuefeng blinked. “No.”
He looked away. “Let’s go inside.”
Song Muqing didn’t move, his gaze fixed on Lu Xuefeng’s slightly reddened ears.
Lu Xuefeng turned to look at him.
Song Muqing leaned closer and embraced him again.
“One more hug,” he said, a hint of reluctance in his voice.
Sharing the joy, but also wanting to hold him close.
