Chapter 28: Conversation

The next morning, sunlight poured onto the balcony, bathing the entire room in warmth. Cui Hao was in no rush to go to the office that day. He glanced at the girl nestled in his arms, a satisfied smile gracing his lips, and gently kissed her forehead before slowly withdrawing his hand from beneath her neck. His arm, numb from remaining still all night, tingled as he moved it, and he flexed his fingers on his way to the bathroom, determined to prepare breakfast before Zhou Xiaoqi woke up.

Cui Hao deliberately slowed his pace, aware of how exhausted Zhou Xiaoqi must be after last night. After making breakfast, he spent another half hour in the study handling some work. Only when he saw signs that the girl in the bedroom was beginning to stir did he rise and walk over.

“You little lazy cat, it’s nearly noon already. Get up and eat, or I’ll have to spank you,” Cui Hao teased indulgently, pinching her cheek. “You really don’t know how to take care of yourself. You mustn’t skip breakfast!”

Half-awake, Zhou Xiaoqi caught sight of Cui Hao by the bed. Memories of their wild night flashed through her mind, making her blush, and she promptly pretended to be asleep.

Watching her antics, Cui Hao found her irresistibly adorable. “I got up early just to make you breakfast. Won’t you at least have a taste?” he said, feigning a wounded tone.

Zhou Xiaoqi knew well that Cui Hao was only putting on an act. She didn’t have the heart to let him feel disappointed, yet she didn’t want to give in so easily either. She wrapped her arms around him, her voice coy. “Carry me to the bathroom to brush my teeth and wash my face, and then I’ll eat.”

Without a word, Cui Hao scooped her up and carried her to the bathroom, setting her gently atop the washstand. He squeezed toothpaste onto her brush and poured out mouthwash, playfully declaring, “At your service, my princess.”

She burst out laughing. “You’re too much, old man! Go on, wait for me outside. I’ll be quick. And remember to serve the food!”

Cui Hao shook his head fondly at her. “Only a little rascal like you would dare order me around like this day after day.”

Zhou Xiaoqi knew he spoke the truth—usually, it was he who gave the orders. She kept every kindness he showed her close to her heart, and her love for him only grew.

She stuck out her tongue mischievously, gesturing for him to leave.

After washing up and changing into her own clothes, Zhou Xiaoqi made her way to the dining room. Seeing the breakfast Cui Hao had prepared, she exclaimed, “Uncle, I have to say, your cooking is amazing! Even a simple breakfast looks and smells so delicious—my favorite sandwiches and red bean porridge. Wow!” Her mouth watered, and she wasted no time sitting down to eat.

Once seated, Cui Hao began to tell her about the plans for the days ahead. “Xiaoqi, the new semester is about to begin. This place isn’t far from your school, so you should move your things here. Focus on your courses. I’ve heard a famous director is preparing a new film and is interested in having me invest. But even if I do, I won’t give you special treatment. I will, however, arrange an agent for you and get you an audition. Whether you get the part depends on your own ability. If you succeed, it’ll be your big break.”

Zhou Xiaoqi listened attentively. “Alright, I understand. I’ll ace the audition, I promise.” She knew how important this opportunity was and was determined to seize it.

“Good. I’ll be waiting for your good news.” Cui Hao cherished every facet of her—the sweet, the sensible, the quiet, the silly. Each side only made him want to treasure her more.

After breakfast, Cui Hao took it upon himself to clear the dishes. With him by her side, Zhou Xiaoqi felt she had nothing to worry about; he always had everything perfectly arranged.

“Uncle, I want to learn how to drive,” Zhou Xiaoqi said after the meal, resting her head on his lap.

Cui Hao absentmindedly stroked her long hair. “Why do you want to learn now? You don’t need it yet.”

She hesitated, unsure whether to tell him, but when she looked up and met his gaze, their eyes locked.

“I… I just thought, since you often have to attend social events, and might sometimes drink too much, it’d be hard for you to get home. If I could drive, I could come pick you up.”

His hand, which had been caressing her hair, stilled. He cradled the back of her head and kissed her, pressing his cheek to hers. “Silly girl,” he murmured, then pulled her into a tight embrace.

“I’ll arrange driving lessons for you. Once you learn, I’ll buy you a car. That way, getting to and from school will be much easier for you.”