Batter My Heart,Mr Xi (Book 2)

Chapter II

The train glided along the tracks, its rhythmic motion lulling Yang Zhilan into a state of contemplation. She stared out the window, watching as the lush green fields and quaint houses of her village in the dark gradually gave way to towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. The city was unlike anything she had ever seen before—a world of endless possibilities, a stark contrast to her simple village life.

She didn't have time to bid those she had come to know and love in the village farewell. But her mother ensured she would do so for her.

Yang Zhilan turned her attention to her brother, Yang Chu, sitting across from her in their cramped compartment. His eyes were tired, but his smile remained warm and reassuring.

"Did you pay for the train tickets?" Yang Chu asked, breaking the silence.

Yang Zhilan nodded, her heart fluttering with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She hadn't planned on leaving her simple life in the village at all but the situation demanded it so she had no choice.

Infact, she was opening up to idea of city life. It was time for her to spread her wings and discover a world beyond.

Whether she would like or hate it, she was yet to know.

Yang Chu reached into his bag and pulled out a water bottle, handing it to his sister. "You should get some rest," he suggested gently.

Taking the water bottle gratefully, Yang Zhilan unscrewed the cap and took a refreshing sip. The cool liquid soothed her parched throat, and she leaned back in her seat, closing her eyes. As the train rumbled on, she allowed the steady hum of the engine to lull her into a peaceful slumber.

Hours later, the train pulled into the station of Qinghe City--a vibrant, bustling metropolis known for its technological advancements and diversity.

It was still in the late in the evening but the city was still alive.

Tall buildings towered above her, casting long shadows on the bustling streets. Neon signs flickered and danced, illuminating the night with a kaleidoscope of colors.

As Yang Zhilan and Yang Chu made their way through the crowd, she couldn't help but notice the curious glances and lingering stares directed her way. Her heart raced, and a sudden self-consciousness washed over her.
She wondered if her appearance...a young woman with long hair tied in a bun, dressed in dark jeans and a crisp white shirt---was the cause of the attention. Was she out of place in this bustling city?

" Do we look weird?" She couldn't help but ask Yang Chu who didn't seem to notice the stares. Or was it just her?

"I don't think so. Why?"

" Nothing." She dragged her suitcase behind her and adjusted her backpack.

Yang Chu led the way through the maze of streets, finally arriving at a small, modest apartment Yang Chu had rented in advance.

Opening the door, Yang Zhilan stepped into their new home, taking in the bare walls and the faint scent of paint.

" Ooh, nice place Chu." She commented taking in the place. She placed her backpack on her suitcase and took a look around.

Yang Zhilan surveyed their small two-bedroom apartment they now called home. It wasn't extravagant, but it held the promise. The walls were still bare, devoid of any personal touches, but she could fix that in a short time.

"I can't believe you actually got this place," Yang Zhilan remarked, a hint of awe in her voice. "It's quite spacious."

Yang Chu nodded, a grateful smile gracing his lips. "I know, sis. It was a close call. This two-bedroom apartment was a stroke of luck. So I had planned to find a roommate to help with the bills, but now that you're here, we're all set."