[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-1987-my-era":3,"chapter-1987-my-era-1987-my-era-chapter-564":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","1987: My Era",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},2259724,4409,"Chapter 564: Things Are Always Unpredictable","1987-my-era-chapter-564",564,"\u003Cp>After breakfast, Li Heng stood at the door, watching the small house across the street, No. 24.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Three little girls had just slung their backpacks on and were about to leave, accompanied by the new female professor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Heng staring at her, the female professor felt uneasy, recalling Ye Ning’s resentful words from earlier.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The female professor was indeed a gossip, but she still had basic intelligence; as soon as Ye Ning and the four girls left, she immediately asked the neighbors about Yu Shuheng’s background.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the neighbors were shrewd—they dodged the question with vague platitudes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After seeing the group of one adult and three children depart, Li Heng shifted his attention and entered No. 25.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng was on the phone; she met his gaze briefly, then returned to her work, holding the receiver in her left hand and a pen in her right, scribbling key notes on her notepad.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After about seven or eight minutes, she ended the call, stood up, and said, “Let’s go to Comrade Liao’s house.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alright.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The two descended the stairs in sequence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the alley entrance, Professor Yu handed him the car keys. “I’m a bit tired—you drive.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked, “Didn’t you sleep well last night?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm.” She got into the front passenger seat and closed her eyes to rest.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She hadn’t slept well at all last night—her dreams had been filled with fantasies, and in the end, she’d made love to the little man in her dream, only then succumbing to exhaustion and falling into deep sleep.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was the third time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since meeting him, she’d begun having erotic dreams.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And they weren’t under her control—in the dreams, she shed her icy demeanor, clinging to him desperately, expending every last ounce of strength in wild abandon.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Each time she woke, she felt hollow inside; the version of herself in the dream was too passionate, too eager to please him—it felt alien.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whenever this happened, she’d avoid speaking much with Li Heng for days, fearing that one day the dream’s scenes might spill into reality, destroying her pride as a Yu family heiress right there on the bed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Throughout the drive, neither spoke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they left Yangpu, Li Heng made small talk: “Teacher, what do you think of my driving?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Very steady. You have talent for everything you do.” Yu Shuheng glanced at him with half-lidded eyes, then closed hers again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her mind wandered: in her dreams, he was equally gifted on the bed—she couldn’t possibly keep up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though they’d never actually had sex, through clothing and beneath his large hands, she’d already experienced womanhood twice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This made her wonder: if just one hand could handle it so effortlessly, what would happen when the dragon’s whip in her mouth unleashed its full power?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Would it be even more terrifying than in her dreams?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng was a woman of pride and refused to mention the dreams—but alone with him in this confined space, the dreams crept into her mind like a spell.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The car moved smoothly, passing through Hongkou and soon arriving in Huangpu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The magazine “Harvest” was based in Huangpu, and Comrade Liao’s home was nearby, just about nine hundred meters from the editorial office.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Passing a department store, Li Heng pulled over. “Teacher, I’ll buy some gifts.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng asked, “What do you want to buy?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng opened the door. “I don’t know yet—I’ll see once I’m inside.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng had wanted to say the trunk was already packed, but she swallowed the words and followed him into the store.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all this time knowing each other, they’d never shopped together so leisurely before—she wanted to relax and experience it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Like most men, Li Heng was straightforward about shopping—he didn’t haggle, whether in supermarkets or street stalls; if he liked something, he bought it without hesitation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He bought, then left—no lingering, no fuss.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In under fifteen minutes, he’d filled both hands with items from the store.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng asked, “Are we leaving already?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng turned back. “Aren’t we? I can’t hold any more.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng smiled gracefully and took half the load from his hands. “Next time you have free time, take your teacher shopping.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“How soon is ‘next time’?” he asked casually.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng replied, “After I finish tutoring my students.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng agreed readily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When he opened the trunk, he froze, staring at the array of gifts. “You already prepared all this? Why didn’t you say?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng said nothing, only gazed at him with a knowing, intellectual expression, the flame in her deep eyes flickering.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What it meant was obvious.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng held her gaze for a long moment, then his eyes drifted downward, lingering on her full chest. He took two deep breaths, then pushed her into the passenger seat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng subtly curled the corner of her lips.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She could clearly feel—the little man had just been stirred by desire.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When he shut the door, Professor Yu swept her hair back with her right hand and murmured softly, “Little man, if it were Runwen, how would she react to that look?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was a death trap.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Whoever answered was a fool.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng’s eyelid twitched. He adopted a deadpan expression. “Do you think I’d ever look at Teacher Wang that way?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng was satisfied with the answer and turned her attention to the roadside buildings, searching for Comrade Liao’s house.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In truth, he’d just lied.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Or rather, because their high school English teacher had been so sensual and stylish, she’d been the sexual awakening object for nearly every male student.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Though everyone feared Teacher Wang during class, privately, their eyes were like thieves—constantly tracking her every move.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before his rebirth, Li Heng was no different. Though he was dating Zijin, he secretly pined for Song Yu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But in those confused years, who could resist a beautiful, sensual, fashionably dressed female teacher?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The allure of a mature woman was entirely different from the innocence of a girl—there was a chasm between them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Mature women represented desire.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Girls represented pure love.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He didn’t know how other boys fantasized privately.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All he knew was that he’d ruined several pairs of pants because of the English teacher.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As his thoughts drifted, a voice suddenly came from beside him: “What are you thinking about?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng instinctively gasped and turned his head.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng watched him intently. “Are you thinking about Runwen?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng shuddered, snapped back to reality, and blurted out: “Don’t joke. You’re the most elegant, cultured beauty teacher in the world—I’d never go looking elsewhere.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng seized the opening: “So you still have designs on her?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng fell silent, refusing to explain further. In her stunned gaze, he half-rose, kissed her red lips, then returned to the driver’s seat and started the car as if nothing had happened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng sat frozen, her eyes glazed, replaying the moment he’d kissed her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could this boy dare do that in broad daylight?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Had he truly forgotten she was his university professor?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It took her a long, long time to process what had just happened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For the rest of the drive, neither spoke.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not even a glance was exchanged.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even in private, she’d kissed his lips twice—but in public, Professor Yu still found it deeply unsettling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Her upbringing made her instinctively avoid publicly displaying this forbidden relationship.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Except, of course, if she resigned.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If needed, if he was willing to commit to this feeling, she would quit her university position without hesitation and devote herself fully to their relationship.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a while, Li Heng parked the Mercedes in front of a small house.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng rolled down her window and peered out. “Here?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng replied, “It should be. I’ve never been here, but the address matches.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They got out, carrying their gifts, and knocked on the door.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Dong dong dong…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Dong dong dong…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After just two knocks, footsteps stirred inside, followed by a voice: “Who is it?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was Brother Liao’s voice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng recognized it immediately and called back: “Brother, it’s me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Less than two seconds later, the lock clicked, and the door opened from within.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Brother, you’re here so… Professor Yu, good morning.” Comrade Liao opened the door, intending to tease Li Heng, but upon seeing Yu Shuheng behind him, he changed his tone instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng smiled and nodded.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Come in, come in—it’s turned cold today.” Comrade Liao warmly ushered them inside, shut the door, then bustled about serving tea and arranging fruit platters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng glanced around and asked, “Brother, isn’t Sister Xu here?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“She is—she’s sleeping in the bedroom.” As he said this, Comrade Liao glanced at Professor Yu; even this seasoned man now looked awkward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng seemed to understand his discomfort and said gently, “It’s this late—why is Suyun still asleep?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Uh…” Comrade Liao paused, wrestled with his thoughts, then finally told them: “Suyun is pregnant—she’s been sleeping a lot lately.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Cough! Cough!”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng choked on his tea, bending over in violent coughing fits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng reached out her right hand and gently patted his back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor watched their interaction, surprised yet not surprised.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Last time, when he invited his junior to his home, he had asked: “Who’s the first person you think of?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a silence, his junior began to evade the question.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He guessed: his junior must have thought of Zhou Shihe, and was unwilling to admit it aloud.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since then, Liao Editor had elevated Zhou Shihe several tiers in his mind—outshining Li Heng’s official girlfriend Xiao Han, his close confidante Mai Sui, and Teacher Yu, all of them accomplished women, yet Zhou Shihe, a mere outsider, had risen above them all. That was an extremely terrifying kind of strength.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Think about it: Xiao Han, Mai Sui, Teacher Yu—was any of them ordinary? Was any not a stunning beauty? Was any not uniquely remarkable?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng was stunned; Yu Shuheng was equally shocked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a long pause, she asked: “When did Su Yun get pregnant?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With the matter now out in the open, Liao Editor was calm: “She got pregnant after we left Aba.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng stared at Liao Editor, who still had a small mustache: “So you two got together in Aba?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor chuckled awkwardly, silently acknowledging it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng recalled: “You two had known each other less than four days, Senior Brother—I’m in awe of you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could he not be in awe?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This guy was still deeply in love with Zhao Ran one moment, and the next, he’d gotten Xu Suyun pregnant—F1 gearshifts weren’t this fast.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With Yu Shuheng present, Liao Editor wasn’t fully at ease with these topics; after a few more words, he stood up: “I’ll go wake Su Yun.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once he left, Li Heng and Yu Shuheng exchanged glances in the living room.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a long silence, Yu Shuheng murmured: “I never thought Su Yun would find emotional closure in such a way.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng could only comfort: “Besides being older, my senior brother is still quite decent.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng stared at him with a strange look: “Just older? Isn’t he just as fickle as you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng rubbed his nose: “Those past things are ancient history—don’t cling to them. Everyone says a prodigal son’s return is worth more than gold; you must look forward.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Yu Shuheng leaned close to his ear and teased: “Little brother, when will you turn back from your ways?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was a question with no answer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As long as he refused to give up Xiao Han, Song Yu, and Zijin, there would never be an answer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So he simply pretended not to hear, sat there with eyes downcast and mind focused, letting Teacher Yu stare at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even as his scalp prickled under her gaze, he remained utterly still.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng had long expected this reaction from him; there was no disappointment, only a shift in topic: “Su Yun is pregnant now—will you still deliver Zhao Ran’s letter?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked: “Can you guess what’s in the letter?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng paused, then said: “I can’t guess the content, but I’m certain it will shake Liao Editor and Su Yun’s relationship.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng hesitated, but still replied: “I accepted a trust—I must honor it. That’s my principle.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng’s eyes flickered with faint admiration, and she said no more on the matter.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon after, Xu Suyun emerged from the bedroom; seeing her friend had come to visit, she was delighted, immediately pulling Yu Shuheng aside to catch up, chattering endlessly as if she had endless stories to tell.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After accompanying the two women for a while, Li Heng gave Liao Editor a glance and rose to go to the balcony.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor understood at once and followed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They stepped out, closed the door.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor asked: “I didn’t expect you’d bring Teacher Yu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng countered: “Who did you think I’d bring?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor said: “In my mind, Xiao Han was the best choice; Mai Sui is also a fine girl.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng rolled his eyes, teasing: “You’ve clearly been blinded by love. With Su Yun here, how could I bring any other woman?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor chuckled: “Su Yun knows your romantic history—don’t pretend. She says we’re the same kind of people.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng stepped back, putting some distance between them: “No, no—I’m no match for you. You’re a god. I don’t have the nerve to sleep with a stranger after knowing her for four days.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor pointed into the air: “You’re not incapable—you just can’t get any ordinary woman to notice you. A female teacher in high school, one in college, one in society—hey, Senior Brother, I’m utterly outclassed.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng was speechless, wanting to just smack the old man dead.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then he asked curiously: “How did Su Yun say that? Did you spill all your dark secrets?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Liao Editor pulled out a pack of cigarettes, took two out, offered one to Li Heng, stuck one in his mouth, lit it with a match, and drew a few puffs: “Su Yun’s family is powerful. Even if I didn’t confess, I couldn’t hide it—so I came clean, hoping for her understanding.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng pressed: “What was her reaction?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor recalled: “She was more open-minded than I expected. She only teased me for half a month, then acted as if she’d forgotten—never mentioned it again, and her attitude toward me didn’t change.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng rubbed the cigarette butt: “Looks like Su Yun truly cares for you—she swallowed that.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor deeply felt this, grateful: “To get a child in old age—what fortune. I’m thankful to Su Yun.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng smoked half the cigarette, then pulled a letter from his pocket and handed it over: “Here. Your letter.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor blinked: “Whose?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng turned the envelope over: “Don’t you recognize this handwriting?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor looked down, his expression turning serious: “Zhao Ran’s?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng didn’t waste words—he shoved the letter into Liao Editor’s palm: “This letter was given to me personally by Aunt Zhao when I left Markang Town. She told me to give it to you after three months. Today is exactly three months.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor hesitated: “Did she tell you anything?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng waved his hand: “Don’t ask. I’ve said all I can. Open the letter yourself—you’ll know everything…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>His words cut off abruptly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because in his line of sight, his senior brother’s hand was trembling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng frowned, concerned: “Are you thinking of something?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor didn’t answer. He crushed out his half-smoked cigarette, then tore open the envelope and read it right before Li Heng’s eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The letter was thin—just one sheet of paper, barely filled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yet Liao Editor spent an eternity reading those half-pages; by the time he reached the last word, tears streamed down his face, his eyes wet with age.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng murmured: “Senior Brother…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor cut him off, handed the letter to him, gesturing for him to read.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng froze, then reluctantly took the paper and skimmed it quickly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When he finished, he was stunned. In the letter, Zhao Ran told Liao Editor that though she never married, she had given birth to a daughter named Liao Chunyan, now twenty-seven, a graduate of Sichuan University’s archaeology program, now teaching there and serving as a museum researcher.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The entire letter contained only this one fact—but even a fool understood what it meant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Especially since the girl bore the surname Liao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was unmistakably clear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng was surprised, yet not entirely shocked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because before arriving, he had already anticipated this possibility—just never imagined it would be this melodramatic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked: “Does the age match?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor trembled all over, voice choked: “It matches. She was nineteen when she was with me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng returned the letter: “So what will you do? Aunt Zhao wrote this letter to you—she probably wants to reconcile.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor’s eyes flickered between clarity and confusion—he understood Zhao Ran’s heart, but now Su Yun was pregnant; he was trapped between advance and retreat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After smoking half the pack in one go, Liao Editor spoke with difficulty: “I must go to Shudou.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng said nothing—it was only expected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor said: “While I’m gone, I need you and Teacher Yu to look after Su Yun. I’ll come back to fetch her after I finish my business.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng patted his chest: “No problem. When do you plan to leave?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor said: “Better sooner than later. Zhao Ran waited three months for a reason—I must go quickly. After lunch, I’ll take her to Lushan Village.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Originally, Liao Editor could have sent Xu Suyun to Old Man Ba’s home, letting Xiao Lin care for her—but remembering the Xu family’s power, he feared Teacher Yu and Xiao Lin couldn’t handle it, making Yu Shuheng the best choice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Back inside, Liao Editor went to the kitchen to prepare lunch.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng pretended to chat with the two women, but mostly just listened, cracking pumpkin seeds, occasionally interjecting a few words.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But soon, the conversation turned toward him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Suyun asked Li Heng: “Li the Great Writer, among our group, only Shuheng and Ye Qing haven’t had children—when will you get Shuheng pregnant?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ye Qing—he knew her well; they’d spent two days together last year on Yuelu Mountain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Huh?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng stammered, under the gaze of both women: “I haven’t even graduated yet—I leave this to Teacher Yu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The answer sounded obedient—but the three words “Teacher Yu” revealed his true stance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Xu Suyun nudged her friend: “Hear that? He says listen to you—tonight, work hard and give him two big, fat boys.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng gave him a long, meaningful look, her demeanor elegant: “I’m only twenty-six—no rush. Let me learn parenting from you first.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What did she mean by “learn parenting”?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She was startled by her friend’s pregnancy, secretly envious.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But she also understood clearly: she and the young man weren’t ready yet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So she deflected the comment with playful charm, sparing Li Heng embarrassment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>True enough, Xu Suyun’s attention shifted, and she began sharing her three months of pregnancy tips and advice with Yu Shuheng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lunch was abundant, but Liao Editor’s cooking was mediocre—barely edible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the meal, Liao Editor called Xu Suyun into the bedroom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng sliced half an apple for him and asked: “I noticed your senior brother’s emotions were stirred—what did the letter say?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng bit into the apple, mumbling out the whole story.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng wrinkled her elegant nose: “Her daughter is only one year younger than Su Yun?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>[201] Li Heng, wary of stirring trouble, chose self-preservation and kept chewing his apple in silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Noticing his cautious demeanor, Yu Shuheng smiled and asked, “What are you afraid of?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng pretended not to understand: “With you here, what do I have to fear?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng’s smile widened as she threatened him: “I want two boys and two girls.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng turned his head: “Four pregnancies? Aren’t you tired? Besides, you can’t precisely control the gender of the baby.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng took a bite of the apple: “Do you remember the fortune-teller, Master Zou, from earlier this year?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng nodded: “I remember. It was Senior Brother who took us. What did he say?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng said: “Master Zou told me: I’ll conceive two pairs of boy-girl twins in a row.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng’s gaze dropped, lingering several times over her lower abdomen, his mind flooded with distracting thoughts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Suddenly, he remembered something and lowered his voice: “Teacher, do you have a mole on your lower abdomen?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng looked at him, then looked at him again, and asked in return: “Why ask that?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng made up an excuse: “I once read a birth chart that said a woman with a mole on her lower abdomen will bring me good fortune.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng found it amusing: “Are you using poison to counter poison? You’re playing along with my act?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng hastily waved his hands: “No, no.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a long standoff, Yu Shuheng said calmly: “Have you never seen my lower abdomen?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng grinned: “It was too dark to see clearly.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Recalling their intimate moments, Yu Shuheng teased him: “Next time, beg me to show you all your tricks with women—prove your skill by looking at my lower abdomen.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just as Li Heng was about to speak, the bedroom door opened.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor and Xu Suyun stepped out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng and Yu Shuheng both turned to look, desperately trying to glean some clue from their expressions—but their faces remained as calm as before.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not a single useful detail.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor approached them and said carefully: “Teacher Yu, I need to ask a favor. I have to travel out of town and would like to leave Suyun with you for a few days. I’ll come back to Shanghai to pick her up.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng agreed: “Fine. Suyun will be safe with me—I’ll take good care of her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After packing their bags, the four got into the car.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng drove again, traveling from Huangpu through Hongkou to Yangpu, then to Fudan University.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liao Editor settled Xu Suyun in and left immediately, rushing straight to the airport.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked Teacher Yu: “Teacher, is there anything I can help with?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yu Shuheng said: “Go take care of your own business for now. Nothing needs attention here—I’ll call you if something comes up.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Alright, got it.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng replied and returned to Building 26.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the moment, Mai Sui and the others were all gone, but a note had been left on the coffee table for him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The note read: We went to the library to read.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To the library?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Why leave the comfort of home and go to the library?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To soak in the reading atmosphere?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It had been a year and a half since he arrived at Fudan, and he’d never properly spent time in the library—this was unacceptable for a student.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To be honest, he was curious about Fudan’s renowned collection and had planned to visit one day to see if he could find useful materials.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He tucked the note away, entered the study, pulled out a book, and read to calm his emotions, purify his mind, and organize his thoughts for the new manuscript.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>About an hour later, feeling his writing rhythm restored, he uncapped his fountain pen and began to let his words flow like a coiling dragon across the blank page.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Today he wrote Chapter 17: Ears in Bloom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It took us the entire spring to traverse only half of the Ma family’s territory.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When summer began, we reached the southern border…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He felt he was born to write—this came naturally to him, he could focus deeply without boredom, and he truly enjoyed it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before he knew it, three hours had passed. He remained utterly absorbed, growing more excited with every line—had it not been for footsteps in the living room interrupting his flow, he would have kept writing, unwilling to stop.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He turned his head and met Sun Manning’s eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>She asked without a trace of guilt: “Big spender, did I disturb you?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked: “Is there something you need?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sun Manning said: “Li Guang and Zhou Zhangming from your dorm came looking for you. They said Li Yi’s been hurt and is now in the hospital. They’re planning to visit together—do you want to come?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Li Heng put down his pen and paper and stood up to leave: “Where are they?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sun Manning said: “They’re outside the alley, ogling girls.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng looked baffled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sun Manning grinned: “Wei Xiaozhu came too. Mai Sui and Shihe are talking to her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng understood: “Did Wei Xiaozhu bring her?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sun Manning swayed her hips. “Yep. You’re smart.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In three strides, Li Heng reached downstairs and asked Zhou Zhangming outright: “Zhou, why not come inside for a bit?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Among the school’s top beauties, more than half were right here. Zhou Zhangming dared not speak a word, and seeing Li Heng was like seeing salvation—he had no intention of going inside. “No need to come in. Next time. We’ve got to hurry to the hospital before it gets dark.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng looked up at the sky and left Lushan Village with the two of them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu followed behind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the way, he asked: “What happened? Why did Li Yi get into another fight?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhou Zhangming shook his head: “We don’t know the details. According to Zhao Yan from Tongji University, in the evening, as they took a shortcut back to campus, they were blocked by several men in black clothes with hoods. The attackers didn’t say a word—they just attacked. They didn’t utter a single phrase until they broke Li Yi’s legs and knocked out all his teeth, then left.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Li Heng glanced silently at Wei Xiaozhu on his left.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As if sensing it, Wei Xiaozhu looked back at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>They exchanged a brief glance. Wei Xiaozhu said nothing, but Li Heng already had a guess.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was probably Liu An seeking revenge.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Last time, Liu An had his legs broken and all his teeth knocked out—this time, the method was nearly identical.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At the campus gate, the two dorm groups met up, bought gifts at Wujiaochang, and hurried to the nearby hospital.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To his surprise, Le Yao was there too.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng seized a moment alone with Wei Xiaozhu and asked: “What’s going on with Le Yao?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu understood his meaning and sighed: “Le Yao is very traditional. She has an obsession with her first man.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng thought for a moment and said four words: “Still in love?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Exactly,” Wei Xiaozhu said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng sighed: “What a pity. If Li Yi had treated her well, she’d have been happier than anyone.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu fully agreed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Entering the hospital, the group asked around and arrived in front of an operating room.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A group was already waiting in the corridor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One fashionable woman was angrily berating a middle-aged man, demanding they find the attackers, punish them severely, preferably execute them!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The middle-aged man had a noble bearing, a broad forehead—clearly someone accustomed to high position. Even now, amid such a crisis, he remained calm.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Guang said: “That woman is Li Yi’s mother. The man beside her is his uncle.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yi’s uncle?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So that’s why.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yi had always been arrogant and flamboyant, relying on his powerful uncle’s backing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When the students arrived, Li Yi’s family, consumed by grief and rage, paid them little attention—until they spotted Li Heng in the crowd. Their expressions changed instantly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yi’s mother forced down her fury and, as a relative, thanked the students from both dorms, bringing over fruit and soda.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The middle-aged man, in front of everyone, stepped forward and extended his right hand warmly: “Mr. Li, hello.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The middle-aged man didn’t know how to address Li Heng.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Calling him “Great Author” felt too old-fashioned and like blatant flattery—he was decades younger.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Calling him by name seemed disrespectful. Li Heng’s social status, fame, and wealth—even the top boss of Shanghai would treat him with courtesy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Besides, whispers in Shanghai’s elite circles had long spread: Yu’s only daughter had taken a strong liking to this Great Author, and she was waiting for him to graduate before marrying him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Listen! Listen!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With that explosive rumor circulating, who in Shanghai would dare provoke Li Heng?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, the rumor wasn’t baseless. When Li Heng revealed his author identity in September, it was Yu’s daughter who had rushed about, managing all the arrivals and departures—what did that signify? It was obvious to anyone paying attention.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So the middle-aged man simply called him “Mr. Li.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng recognized him too—he’d seen his face in newspapers. He extended his hand and smiled: “Uncle Liu, hello. Just call me Heng.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Uncle Liu” pleased the middle-aged man immensely; his smile widened further.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As they chatted, the waiting grew tense—finally, the operating room door opened and a masked doctor stepped out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Yi’s mother rushed forward: “Doctor, how is he?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The doctor, overwhelmed by the crowd, hesitated, then said: “The leg surgery went well, but one testicle was shattered.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Testicle?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What testicle?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone present instantly understood what the doctor meant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But for Lady Li Yi, this news shattered the heavens! One moment she was commanding and fierce, the next she collapsed onto the floor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The doctor rushed over, knelt down, and revived her quickly, then reassured her: “The surgery went smoothly. It won’t affect fertility or your ability to marry and have children. Don’t worry.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lady Li Yi regained hope: “Even one testicle is enough?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The words sounded awkward, but no one in the room laughed—the atmosphere was grim.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The doctor said: “Yes. Under normal circumstances, one is sufficient.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Out of concern, Li Yi’s family surrounded the doctor with countless questions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Due to the family’s immense influence, the doctor dared not refuse, answering each question patiently.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon after, Li Yi was wheeled out, eyes closed on the hospital bed. Was he unconscious? Or simply unwilling to face anyone?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, the two dorm mates merely watched in silence, not daring to disturb him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all, losing one testicle—how could anyone accept that?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yue Yao even began to cry quietly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Li Yi’s official girlfriend, Zhao Yan, had slipped away at some point.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lady Li Yi noticed Yue Yao’s unusual state, swallowed her pain, and walked over: “Miss, you’re Yue Yao, right?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yue Yao hastily wiped her tears with her sleeve. “Yes, Auntie.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lady Li Yi studied Yue Yao for a long moment, then suddenly bowed deeply and sighed heavily: “Ah… the boy had no fortune. I apologize to you on his behalf.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lady Li Yi’s sudden change in demeanor left everyone bewildered.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yue Yao panicked: “Auntie, I don’t blame him.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hearing this, Lady Li Yi sighed again, eyes wet, and walked away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After lingering at the hospital for nearly two hours, seeing Li Yi still refuse to open his eyes, the two dorm mates finally left.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even though the doctor said he should already be awake, no one managed to see Li Yi open his eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he left the hospital, Li Guang erupted, his suppressed anger breaking free: \"Damn it! Who did this? That’s a ruthless move!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Several people thought of Liu An—but no one spoke his name.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because the case was too serious, and with no evidence, no one dared speculate aloud.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, Li Heng, Zhang Bing, Wei Xiaozhu, and Dai Qing—even without saying a word—knew Li Yi himself knew better than anyone who the culprit was!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because the retaliation mirrored Li Yi’s own cruelty, only with a little extra interest added.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The interest? One testicle.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Back at school, Wei Xiaozhu stopped Li Heng, Zhang Bing, and Dai Qing: “Wait a moment—I need to talk to you.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The others exchanged glances and quietly slipped away.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When they were gone, Wei Xiaozhu said: “I’m feeling down. Come drink with me.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dai Qing checked his watch: “It’s so late—if we drink now, we won’t be allowed back into the dorm.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Before Li Heng could speak, Zhang Bing cut in: “Come to my rental. I’ve got liquor and braised dishes. I can cook a few more dishes too.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing Li Heng confused, Dai Qing explained: “Zhang Bing took your advice—he’s now rented a shop in Wujiaochang.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng had been busy writing and reading lately, paying little attention to outside matters. He asked immediately: “Old Zhang, how’s business since you rented the shop?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Good. Better than before.” Just two simple sentences revealed Zhang Bing’s inner joy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fudan was not far from Wujiaochang—they arrived quickly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To Li Heng, Wei Xiaozhu, and Dai Qing’s surprise, Bai Wanying was already in the rental, along with another young married couple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying introduced: “This is my older sister. This is my brother-in-law.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The young couple had been relaxed, but when Bai Wanying revealed Li Heng’s identity, they grew noticeably stiff, straightening their posture.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Learning they planned to drink, Bai Wanying’s sister and brother-in-law volunteered to go to the kitchen and prepare some snacks.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng asked Bai Wanying: “Did your sister and brother-in-law come to deliver the braised dishes?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying said: “Yes. All the braised dishes Zhang Bing sells are delivered by them at night. In summer, to avoid spoilage, they bring them in the morning.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Drinking? It was just drinking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Wei Xiaozhu drank in silence.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng, Bai Wanying, Zhang Bing, and Dai Qing knew why Wei Xiaozhu was troubled, so they steered conversation toward lighter topics.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only when Zhang Bing and Dai Qing were drunk did Wei Xiaozhu turn to Li Heng and Bai Wanying: “Who do you think did it? Is it Liu An?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Having learned the full story through drinking, Bai Wanying thought a moment: “Not one hundred percent, but at least ninety percent—it’s Liu An. And…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu asked: “And what?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying said: “Given Li Yi’s cruel nature, this isn’t over.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng interjected: “Don’t scare Wei Xiaozhu. Liu An and Old Li are cut from the same cloth—their methods are equally ruthless. What happens next? Hard to say.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu stared at her cup, then after a long pause asked: “Do you believe beautiful women bring disaster?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying and Li Heng exchanged glances, then reassured her: “Does this have anything to do with you? Li Yi and Liu An reached this point because of their own natures. Without you, Wei Xiaozhu, there’d be Chen Xiaozhu, Zhang Xiaozhu. This chain of cause and effect has nothing to do with you. Don’t overthink it, Xiaozhu.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Li Heng agreed: “Wanying’s right. Even if Old Li secretly liked you, he never confessed. You were never involved—you’re not part of this.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying added: “Xiaozhu, you must’ve had crushes since middle school. If you carry this kind of sympathy for every one, you’ll never live a normal life. You’ll worry yourself to death.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu smiled: “It’s not as terrible as you think. I’m just sad. Liu An wasn’t like this as a child—we used to play together all the time. I never imagined he’d turn out like this… Ah, I won’t hide it from you two—I’m afraid Li Yi will come after Liu An after he’s discharged. Both are stubborn, unwilling to back down. It’ll only spiral out of control.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying asked: “Are you afraid someone will die?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu hesitated: “Death probably won’t happen—but the consequences will be severe.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying weighed the beer bottle in her hand: “No one’s tying their hands. If they let a petty grudge drive them to ruin, that’s fate.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then she added: “But I don’t agree with your view. This time, both Liu’s and Li’s families will pull out all stops to fight it out—who wins? Unclear.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“But whoever wins, if both sets of parents are reasonable and realize how serious this is, they’ll rein in their sons. If they don’t? It’s the father’s fault for failing to raise his child. Who else can you blame?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That night, Li Heng drank heavily to keep company with his friends, and collapsed face-down on the table.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu said to Bai Wanying: “I didn’t know you could drink so much liquor. You reminded me of someone.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Are you talking about Mai Sui?” Bai Wanying asked.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu nodded with a smile: “Yes. Suisui drinks like a bottomless pit—I’ve never seen her drunk.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying asked: “Does Mai Sui not drink in public?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>“Mm. When Li Heng isn’t around, Mai Sui drinks at most one beer, then stops. No one dares to urge her,” Wei Xiaozhu said.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This was what Dai Qing told her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Dai Qing said: In ten student union gatherings, Mai Sui missed nine. Even when she showed up once, she drank only one beer, then sat still—no one dared to press her.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying sighed: “Mai Sui is truly a good woman—she devotes all her heart to Li Heng. If I were Li Heng, I’d break up with Xiao Han and love only her.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu deeply agreed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying suddenly laughed out loud.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu looked at her, puzzled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bai Wanying murmured: “Xiaozhu, don’t ever feel sympathy for Li Yi and Liu An again. Otherwise…”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What came next? Bai Wanying drank her liquor in silence, saying no more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu fell into deep thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A few minutes later, Bai Wanying asked: “Drinking alone is boring. Can you have another drink?”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wei Xiaozhu said: “I’ll try.”\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>PS: Posted first, will revise later.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Already posted 11,000 characters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>(End of chapter)\u003C\u002Fp>",6242,"2026-06-19T15:27:37.100Z",1,"Qwen3-Next 80B","ed060d412c1d32c4feb0bd15effd0b8917d48fac24769453a6a941f6ea02920f","1987-my-era-chapter-565","1987-my-era-chapter-563",713,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002F1987-my-era-cover.jpg"]