Chapter 39

On the way back from the town hospital, Song Shuling was driving.

Ruan Zhen got into the passenger seat. “Can you handle it?”

Song Shuling glanced at him and reached over to fasten his seatbelt. “There’s nothing I can’t handle.”

Great.

Ruan Zhen hated people who acted all high and mighty.

“You’re capable, huh? How about chopping a duck for me when we get back?”

He leaned back lazily in the seat, closing his eyes. “Then roll out the dough, make some dumplings, and fry a couple of sweet rice cakes, okay?”

The car window was half-open, and the bumpy road made Song Shuling drive slowly. The breeze that slipped through the gap blew Ruan Zhen’s bangs, revealing his beautiful eyes and brows.

His voice grew softer.

Song Shuling chimed in, “What else do you want to eat?”

“Steamed buns, with a three-ingredient filling and some shrimp.”

“Anything else?”

“During the New Year, we should have cured meat, stir-fried with bamboo shoots.”

“Sure, I’ll slice it thinly for you.”

After a while, Song Shuling’s gaze flickered, and he smiled slightly.

Ruan Zhen had fallen asleep.

Now he could speed up, rolling up the window and driving toward the distant morning light. The trees on both sides cast cloud-like shadows, their crowns adorned with sparse leaves. A golden glow spread from the mountaintop, solemn and sacred.

The car stopped in front of the Damdi Primary School. Song Shuling opened the passenger door, unfastened Ruan Zhen’s seatbelt, and the latter’s head still hung down, but his lips were curled into a smile. Song Shuling didn’t call him out on it, instead, he lifted Ruan Zhen’s arm over his neck and carried him again.

He carried him all the way to the house and laid him on the bed in front of the yellow dog.

The yellow dog tilted its head, its eyes full of confusion.

Song Shuling changed the dog’s water and rubbed its fluffy head. “Grandpa will be back in a couple of days, don’t worry.”

The yellow dog wagged its tail and went out to play.

Song Shuling washed his hands and went into the room. Ruan Zhen had already sat up on the bed, his eyes wide open, dramatically covering his face.

“Goodness, how did I end up here?”

Song Shuling locked the door. “Well, I couldn’t resist you, so I brought you here.”

With that, he took off his coat and leaned in.

Just as their noses were about to touch, Ruan Zhen scrambled backward. “I was wrong, I won’t bother you anymore.”

“Who said you were bothering me?”

Song Shuling grabbed his hand, pulled him close, and pressed him against his chest. “Do you want to sleep first or eat first?”

Earlier, they hadn’t gone to eat after leaving the hospital because the bumpy road might have made him carsick. Now that they were home, he kissed Ruan Zhen’s cheek and asked if he was hungry or sleepy.

“You adapt too quickly,” Ruan Zhen said, feeling a bit awkward despite the affectionate gesture. “I’m still trying to catch up.”

“That’s because I’ve liked you longer than you have,” Song Shuling said casually. “For over half a year, I’ve thought about these moments countless times, so I can accept them quickly.”

Ruan Zhen’s face turned slightly red. “Do you think about these things when you have nothing to do?”

“Yep,” Song Shuling held him, thinking for a moment. “Besides these, I also think about how you’re doing, whether you’re eating and sleeping well, and if you’re warm enough.”

As he spoke, they lay down on the bed, facing each other, feeling each other’s shallow breaths.

Ruan Zhen asked, “Just these things?”

“Not just these,” Song Shuling looked at him deeply. “Do you want to hear more?”

They were alone in the room, Ruan Zhen’s hand was held and pressed against Song Shuling’s chest. The heartbeat was so close, it sounded more and more urgent, but it also felt like gentle waves lapping against the shore, leaving a trail of white foam.

Swish, swish—

Song Shuling kept patting Ruan Zhen’s back, his palm warm, like soothing a child to sleep.

Apart from that, they didn’t touch anywhere else, giving each other the maximum sense of comfort.

He told Ruan Zhen about his childhood, growing up with his aunt, where he studied, how he entered the business world, the setbacks he faced, and the hard-fought battles he won. He also mentioned how he managed his current assets.

He went into great detail, using a lot of professional terms. Ruan Zhen listened for a while but soon felt drowsy.

He lowered his eyes. “Song Shuling.”

“Yep,”

Song Shuling’s voice was soft. “I’m here.”

—

Ruan Zhen slept deeply.

He woke up because of hunger. The protest from his stomach was like a boulder rolling in his abdomen, slowly but surely.

“Ugh…”

When he opened his sleepy eyes, he realized an arm was draped across his waist.

Song Shuling was still asleep, but when Ruan Zhen moved slightly, the arm reflexively pulled him back.

Ruan Zhen was speechless. No wonder his stomach was uncomfortable after being pressed like that.

He reached out and gently patted Song Shuling’s hand. “Hey, wake up.”

Song Shuling mumbled a low “Hmm” and nuzzled Ruan Zhen’s neck, hugging him tighter.

It was already around five or six in the afternoon. Ruan Zhen didn’t mind being hungry for a bit longer. Based on his experience, the hunger would pass in a couple of minutes, and it wouldn’t matter much.

The main issue was the intimate position he was in.

Ruan Zhen paused, then spoke. “Could you move over a bit?”

Song Shuling didn’t open his eyes, still half-asleep. “Wait a bit, I’ll get up and cook for you…”

Cooking? Ruan Zhen suspected he’d be the one getting cooked if this continued.

“Get up,”

He turned around and forcibly broke free from Song Shuling’s arm. “It’s already this late!”

But he couldn’t break free, and he couldn’t push him away. The person behind him continued to nuzzle his cheek, calling his name.

Damn.

Song Shuling’s mind wasn’t awake, but his body was, and it was terrifying.

They were both men, and Ruan Zhen understood.

He adjusted his breathing, trying to keep his voice steady. “Sir, could you not press that thing against me?”

The arm around his waist stiffened.

Ruan Zhen acted as if nothing happened, pulled the blanket off, got out of bed, found a piece of clothing in the cabinet, and changed in the bathroom.

When he came out, Song Shuling was already sitting up, his ears slightly red.

Ruan Zhen’s gaze quickly swept over him. “Better?”

Song Shuling cleared his throat. “Yep.”

“Let’s eat something simple,” Ruan Zhen changed the topic lightly. “After that, I’ll go to the hospital to stay overnight… you shouldn’t follow me again.”

Song Shuling nodded. “I’ll take you there.”

“Okay,” Ruan Zhen opened the door. “The yellow dog needs someone to stay with it, or it will be scared.”

This time, the atmosphere in the car was a bit awkward.

Song Shuling, who had been so confident in the morning, now sat properly, not even glancing around.

Ruan Zhen found it amusing.

He leaned his elbow on the window, speaking casually. “By the way, did you see everything when we first met?”

Song Shuling almost hit the brakes.

“It was when we first met,” Ruan Zhen continued. “What were you thinking? Did you enjoy the view?”

Song Shuling stared straight ahead, his cheeks flushing. “No.”

“No what?”

“I did see your body… but I didn’t feel anything.”

Ruan Zhen raised an eyebrow. “You’re quite self-disciplined.”

“I’m not the type to be swayed by physical attraction,” Song Shuling spoke slowly. “These things aren’t that important to me.”

Blowhard.

Ruan Zhen didn’t believe it.

He maintained his lazy posture, his eyes full of amusement. “Really? What if I strip now?”

Song Shuling finally looked at him.

Then he looked away. “Baby, I’m driving.”

Ruan Zhen sat up straight.

This was the first time Song Shuling called him by a pet name. His voice was already smooth and magnetic, and the affectionate term made Ruan Zhen feel a bit overwhelmed.

He fell silent.

At a red light, Song Shuling reached out and tickled Ruan Zhen’s palm.

“Stop,”

Ruan Zhen’s fingers curled. “It tickles.”

The car started again, and the deep laughter in his ear was too soothing.

They didn’t speak again until they reached the hospital parking lot. They silently went upstairs together. Song Shuling had already informed Zhang Laotou and turned to leave, slipping something into Ruan Zhen’s hand.

“What’s this?”

They were standing in the hallway. Ruan Zhen looked down and saw a thick red envelope.

“It’s the New Year, so you should have some lucky money,” Song Shuling smiled. “I meant to put it under your pillow, but I forgot when you woke up.”

Ruan Zhen opened his mouth to protest and pushed the envelope back. “No, that’s not appropriate.”

“There’s nothing inappropriate about it,” Song Shuling didn’t take it back. “Keep it. I’ll come pick you up tomorrow morning.”

A nurse pushed a cart past, and a child’s laughter echoed. Song Shuling leaned in and whispered in Ruan Zhen’s ear.

“Just consider it a good omen… I’m going, baby, take care.”

No way.

Ruan Zhen couldn’t handle Song Shuling calling him that.

“You’re so silly,”

He blushed and scolded him. “This is a hospital, people are coming and going… carrying cash like that isn’t safe. Take it back for me, will you?”

Song Shuling hesitated but nodded. “Alright.”

Ruan Zhen pushed the envelope back into his pocket and waved him off. “Go back quickly, remember to come tomorrow morning!”

After that, he didn’t dare stay any longer and turned back to the room.

Zhang Laotou was lying on the bed, watching TV. He looked up. “Was it cold outside?”

Ruan Zhen sat beside him and touched his face. “Yeah.”

“No wonder,”

Zhang Laotou nodded seriously. “You should wear a hat or a scarf, your face is all red!”

Ruan Zhen’s hand remained on his face, silent for a moment. “Grandpa, I want to discuss something with you.”

It was the same topic Song Shuling had brought up earlier that morning.

Zhang Laotou’s injury was in his waist. Although the surgery was successful, the doctor recommended at least two months of bed rest. During this period, Ruan Zhen’s teaching assignment wasn’t over.

He had already reported to his superiors and received understanding and approval. However, taking care of Zhang Laotou and the yellow dog would be challenging for Ruan Zhen.

More importantly, he wasn’t professional enough.

“This is the best option for you, Grandpa,” Song Shuling had said, holding his hand. “The environment is good, with professional medical care and a dedicated team. You can rest easier.”

Song Shuling suggested that Zhang Laotou stay at his own nursing home.

“Next to it is a farm where you can fish and grow vegetables. There are many fruit trees… do you remember? I have an older brother who has a spiritual connection. He became a monk when he was young and now lives there, spending his days drinking tea with other devotees.”

He kissed Ruan Zhen’s hair. “I know you don’t want to deal with the Song family, but rest assured, this is my personal property, specifically for my brother’s retirement, and it’s separate from the rest.”

Ruan Zhen hesitated, then told Zhang Laotou everything.

Zhang Laotou’s eyes widened. “How much will that cost?”

The vast orchards and expansive fish ponds were tempting, but the real question was whether they could afford it.

Ruan Zhen steeled himself. “It’s free.”

Zhang Laotou was still stunned. “Why?”

How could Ruan Zhen explain?

He couldn’t say, “Sorry, I’m dating Song Shuling, and he’s a wealthy businessman with more money than he knows what to do with, so he’s offering to help. Don’t worry about it.”

Moreover, Ruan Zhen felt a bit embarrassed.

It wasn’t that he lacked confidence in their relationship.

He just felt that Song Shuling was a bit “reckless” in this aspect.

Once he liked someone, he would travel long distances to be with them, share everything, and reveal his entire self to Ruan Zhen, saying, “Look, I’ve been waiting for you.”

He was afraid he couldn’t reciprocate equally.

“Let’s talk about it later,” Ruan Zhen smiled. “I just wanted to let you know. Think about it.”

He had originally planned to take a leave of absence, drop out of school, and stay with Zhang Laotou to help him recover. It wasn’t a big deal.

But now, Song Shuling was part of his life.

Ruan Zhen lowered his lashes, remembering the quick glance he had caught earlier.

The red envelope Song Shuling had given him was meant for a wedding.

He wasn’t sure if it was intentional or a mistake.

The red envelope had ornate gold calligraphy and a pair of mandarin ducks, with a rather cliché message—

“May you have a hundred years of happiness and a lifelong bond.”

—

The day before Zhang Laotou was discharged, Ruan Zhen finally decided to follow Song Shuling’s suggestion.

It was the best option.

He couldn’t let Zhang Laotou recover in Damdi, as the time, effort, and facilities were insufficient.

Ruan Zhen informed the school, and fortunately, the other teachers could cover his classes. Everyone understood his situation, and the village chief, Huang Yang, would take over his duty of standing guard during the winter break. Every afternoon, he would bring his daughter to the school, take a walk, play a game of basketball, and then go home.

“Don’t worry,” Huang Yang waved his hand. “The old man’s health is important… the kids understand.”

Zhang Laotou puffed up his cheeks and glared. “No way, I’m not useless… in a month, I’ll be walking around!”

The yellow dog barked in agreement.

Huang Yang chuckled and rubbed his hands. “That’s the spirit. When you go back, be careful on the road. Don’t hit any bumps or get hurt.”

He meant well, knowing the mountain roads were difficult.

But the next day, a private plane was parked on the Damdi Primary School playground.

Zhang Laotou looked at Song Shuling, then at Ruan Zhen, and finally at the yellow dog.

Ruan Zhen covered his face, not knowing what to say.

“My older brother is waiting for you,”

Song Shuling accompanied him, with the doctors already prepared to depart. “He wants to exchange fishing techniques and brewing skills with you.”

Zhang Laotou, still on a stretcher, waved his hand. “Deal!”

It was time to go. Song Shuling patted the yellow dog’s head and led Ruan Zhen down the stairs. For some reason, he insisted on driving Ruan Zhen back himself.

“I’ll come with you again,”

Song Shuling closed the passenger door for him, walked around the car, and put on a pair of sunglasses. “Buckle up, baby.”

Ruan Zhen silently fastened his seatbelt.

He had seen Song Shuling fight before, thinking he was the type who enjoyed living on the edge and seeking adrenaline rushes. But now he realized the man was actually very meticulous and cautious.

According to the plan, Ruan Zhen would go back with Song Shuling to check out the nursing home and then return to Damdi.

He had a new task: to participate in the road construction project suitable for Damdi, as well as the renovation of the school building and the construction of a library.

Ruan Zhen felt guilty for leaving, but given the current situation, he couldn’t be away from Zhang Laotou for half a year. After all, the old man was getting older, and as they say, every day counts.

So he cooperated with Song Shuling, doing his best to make up for it. At the very least, he could leave Damdi Primary School in better shape.

The journey back was smooth, with little traffic. Ruan Zhen leaned against the window, watching the small green mountains grow distant, eventually forming a continuous line.

“I was thinking of roasting some oranges for you when I have time.”

Song Shuling spoke gently. “We can do it when we get back.”

Ruan Zhen turned to look at him. “Thank you.”

Their gazes met in the rearview mirror, and Song Shuling smiled. “I know.”

—

Everything was busy after they returned.

Ruan Zhen first went to the nursing home. As Song Shuling had described, it was a secluded paradise, with lush trees, swans floating on the pond, and willows rippling on the water. The legendary Song family’s second brother, who had a spiritual connection, was sitting in the shade, playing chess with a calm and detached expression.

Song Shuling glanced at him and led Ruan Zhen away.

“What’s wrong?”

Ruan Zhen was puzzled. “I should at least say hello.”

“He’s going to lose this game,” Song Shuling said casually. “My brother is good at everything except chess. He gets angry when he loses.”

Sure enough, a loud argument broke out soon after.

But what can you say? They were all devotees, so their arguments were passionate and intense, yet not a single dirty word was used.

Zhang Laotou was quite satisfied. The fish ponds here were larger and more extensive, and he could have company to play with the yellow dog. Additionally, he learned about the relationship between Ruan Zhen and Song Shuling—

There was no way to avoid it. When they first arrived, Song Shuling couldn’t resist and kissed Ruan Zhen against the wall.

Who would have thought Zhang Laotou wasn’t at the nursing home but waiting for them in the room?

Blame the parrot, who had a mischievous streak and deliberately kept the secret.

To say the least, if Zhang Laotou could walk, he would have chased Song Shuling with a cane.

Ruan Zhen was mortified. He had never had a crush in his teenage years, and now he was caught red-handed. But there was no point in hiding it, so he steeled himself and ran, thinking, “Well, at least Grandpa will hit Song Shuling.”

Song Shuling was tough.

But Song Shuling managed to handle it. Not only that, he even invited his aunt, Lin Sulan, to provide remote assistance.

Ms. Lin Sulan had dedicated her life to academia and teaching, and even over the phone, she could leave Zhang Laotou speechless. Later, it seemed that Song Shuling had made some promise, and Zhang Laotou closed his eyes, pursed his lips, and remained silent.

Ruan Zhen knew this was a sign of acceptance.

He had asked when they would tell their families.

Song Shuling replied nonchalantly, “A long time ago.”

But he didn’t specify exactly when.

Both of them were busy.

In addition to his work, Ruan Zhen went to the school to explain the situation, completed the necessary procedures, and ordered two sets of washable school uniforms for each child in the village. He also took the opportunity to research future library donations during the second half of the semester when he had no classes.

Song Shuling was always out and about, rarely at home.

But every night, he would return, kiss Ruan Zhen’s forehead, and say goodnight.

Strangely, they had shared a bed in the village, but now they had separate rooms. Initially, Ruan Zhen had stayed with Song Shuling at the sanatorium for a few days—it wasn’t far, only a half-hour drive from Song Shuling’s place. Later, when Song Shuling was busy, Ruan Zhen would be asleep by the time he returned.

He would stand by the bed for a while, then leave, quietly closing the door.

After a month, everything had settled back into a routine, and Ruan Zhen felt at ease, even finding the energy to tease the snow-white parrot.

The reason was simple: the bird was a mischievous creature that disturbed his sleep in the mornings.

Song Shuling was sitting on the sofa, reading a book, when he saw Ruan Zhen poking the parrot’s feathers with his finger and couldn’t help but laugh.

The parrot squawked twice and flew away.

“Trouble,” Ruan Zhen turned his head. “It holds grudges. Will it come back to peck me awake tomorrow? I should lock the door.”

Song Shuling looked up at him and put down his book.

“Don’t lock it,”

He smiled at Ruan Zhen, his demeanor regal. “Leave it open for me.”

Ruan Zhen didn’t respond.

After a moment of silence, Song Shuling patted his lap. “Come here.”

Beside them was a large aquarium, filled with colorful tropical fish swimming quietly, their movements casting a serene, pale blue glow. Ruan Zhen, with a slight blush, walked over and sat on Song Shuling’s lap.

Song Shuling, as usual, wore his gold-rimmed glasses while reading, his amber eyes behind the lenses exuding a gentle light.

“Why don’t you put on some weight?”

He held Ruan Zhen and gently lifted him. “My dear, I need to fatten you up.”

Despite being alone in the room, their voices were low, the words tingling in Ruan Zhen’s ears, as if afraid the fish might overhear.

Ruan Zhen wrapped his arms around Song Shuling’s neck, looked at him for a moment, and then leaned in to kiss him.

It was the first time he had initiated a kiss.

Song Shuling didn’t move, tilting his head back, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he submitted, his hands gently holding Ruan Zhen’s waist, his chest rising and falling.

After a while, Ruan Zhen straightened up, smiling mischievously. “Alright, I won’t lock it. I’ll leave the door open for you tonight.”

But Song Shuling wasn’t satisfied.

A businessman is always sharp and ambitious. It was 9:10 AM, and there were still at least ten hours until night. He couldn’t wait, couldn’t bear it, and lifted Ruan Zhen into his arms, carrying him to the bedroom with a serious expression.

Ruan Zhen was thrown onto the bed, his body bouncing up. He tilted his head and looked at Song Shuling. “Didn’t Sir Song say you were patient?”

“Um,”

Song Shuling nodded, taking off his glasses and untying his tie in front of Ruan Zhen.

“I’ll show you just how patient I can be.”

When his mouth was covered, Ruan Zhen knew something was wrong.

But the body’s reactions are honest. They were adults, and a single glance could convey their desires. Song Shuling was holding back, and so was Ruan Zhen. Every night, when Song Shuling kissed his forehead and left, Ruan Zhen would open his eyes and watch the retreating back.

Don’t be so patient.

Ruan Zhen buried his face in the pillow, smiling and feeling a bit embarrassed.

In this aspect, he was quite spontaneous and willing to be honest about his desires.

So now, Ruan Zhen closed his eyes, feeling the unfamiliar pleasure.

The touch of skin brought a continuous shiver.

It was a rare sunny day, and at 9:30 AM, they were inside, kissing, touching, and losing themselves in each other, wasting such a beautiful morning.

Song Shuling suddenly stopped.

“I don’t have anything…”

He was embarrassed, his chest still heaving from excitement. “I’ll go buy it now.”

Ruan Zhen, lying on the bed, peeked out with one eye. “…You don’t have it?”

“Of course not,” Song Shuling defended himself, opening the bedside drawer. “I told you, I’ve never been with anyone. How could I have it?”

Ruan Zhen buried his face again, blushing and not knowing what to say.

Because Song Shuling was indeed very patient.

He treated Ruan Zhen like a tightly closed clam, kissing and coaxing gently, using the utmost tenderness and care to wait for the shell to open, revealing the soft flesh and the clear, bright water inside.

Ruan Zhen reached out and grabbed Song Shuling’s forearm. “Stop…”

His voice was muffled, his ears red.

“It’s fine… without it…”

Song Shuling panted. “No, I don’t want to hurt you. Just wait a moment.”

He picked up the phone, said something briefly, and then continued to kiss Ruan Zhen’s hair.

Ruan Zhen couldn’t take it anymore.

He turned his face and glared. “If that’s the case, can you at least take your fingers out?”

Otherwise, he wouldn’t last until the item arrived. It would be too embarrassing to be undone before they even started, and even if Song Shuling didn’t mock him, he would be too ashamed to face anyone.

Song Shuling agreed quickly. “Alright, I’ll do as you say.”

His words were sweet, but his actions didn’t stop.

Ruan Zhen was about to break. He gritted his teeth, pushed him away, and grabbed the blanket, wrapping it around himself. “Get off!”

Song Shuling’s hand was by Ruan Zhen’s ear, his voice hoarse. “Baby…”

What kind of person tortures their beloved like this?

Ruan Zhen was truly angry. “Will you listen to me?”

Song Shuling didn’t hesitate. “Yes, I’ll listen to anything you say.”

At this point, even if Ruan Zhen asked for the stars, Song Shuling would climb a ladder to get them.

“Give me the tie.”

Ruan Zhen’s eyes were red, his collarbone marked with kisses, looking pitiful.

He gritted his teeth. “I’m going to tie you up.”

Song Shuling was taken aback. “Huh?”

Tying him up was already a step up from what Ruan Zhen wanted to do, which was to chain him to the bed and see how he liked it.

Seeing no reaction, Ruan Zhen flipped over, grabbed the tie, and glared at Song Shuling.

After a moment of silence,

Song Shuling obediently extended his wrists.

The dark green tie was wrapped around twice and tied in a tight knot. Ruan Zhen finally felt satisfied. He patted his hands and heard a knock at the door.

“Sir, I’ve bought the item.”

Song Shuling cleared his throat. “Leave it at the door.”

He then looked at Ruan Zhen innocently, holding up his tied wrists. “Baby, I can’t reach it.”

Ruan Zhen: “…”

He silently picked up his coat, put it on, and fetched the item, closing the door again.

The plastic bag rustled, and Song Shuling lay on the bed, still looking innocent.

Ruan Zhen suddenly felt at a loss.

Because Song Shuling’s tone was particularly serious, earnest, and encouraging.

“Then… you’ll have to do it yourself.”

Ruan Zhen swallowed. “How… how do I do it myself?”

Song Shuling didn’t speak, just gave him a meaningful look.

Ruan Zhen, having brought this upon himself, steeled himself, opened the package, and put it on, his fingers trembling.

Song Shuling watched him the whole time.

Ruan Zhen’s face was flushed, and he finally let go. “Done.”

“Not done,”

Song Shuling laughed, his voice hoarse. “Be a good boy and sit on it.”

…Ruan Zhen couldn’t breathe, his vision going black.

He felt like he was swallowing a huge secret, a treasure he carried in his youth, running barefoot through the streams and mountains, his heart pounding, but he wanted to run faster, to reach the person he loved.

And then fall into their arms.

What was the secret?

He had to share it with him.

The impact was intense, and Song Shuling kissed him wildly, Ruan Zhen’s head and shoulders almost floating off the bed. Song Shuling reached out and pulled him back, kissing his eyes repeatedly.

The tie around his wrists was somehow untied.

Ruan Zhen clung to Song Shuling’s shoulders, calling out softly, leaving marks on his skin.

In the end, Song Shuling lifted him up, saying nothing.

Both were panting, sweating, their heavy breaths intertwining, their skin hot to the touch.

Ruan Zhen looked up at him, his eyes wet.

“Song Shuling,”

His voice was hoarse. “Come here, I have a secret to tell you.”

Song Shuling leaned in, breathing softly.

Ruan Zhen rubbed their cheeks together, his eyes bright.

“I like you.”