Against the Algorithm

Chapter 5: The Fine Print of Belonging

Yao let out a long sigh. "Da Bing," she murmured tiredly, reaching out to scratch behind his ears. "That's not yours."

Da Bing let out an unimpressed mrrp in response, his large tail flicking dismissively as he deliberately settled his weight over the contract, his fluffy paws kneading the edges.

Yao huffed. "You really don't care, do you?"

Another slow blink. Another deep, rumbling purr.

She exhaled, her fingers idly threading through his fur as she leaned back against the couch. "I don't even know why I'm hesitating," she muttered more to herself than him. "It's... fair. It's safe. It's—" Her voice faltered. Her mind drifted back to earlier that night—to him.

"The minute you said yes? You became part of ZGDX."

"That means you're mine to look after."

A sharp, fluttering heat curled up her spine before she forcefully shoved it down, clearing her throat.

Da Bing, sensing her distress, let out another mrrp before rubbing his huge face against her arm, his thick fur tickling her skin.

Yao sighed again. "I know, I know. You just want attention." She scratched under his chin, watching as he stretched lazily over the contract, completely at ease, completely unbothered by the storm in her head. She wished she could be like him. But her thoughts were already circling back. Back to him and no matter how much she tried to ignore it...She knew. This wasn't just about the job anymore.

Three days later, Yao stood in front of the ZGDX base, the signed contract neatly tucked into her bag, her fingers tightening slightly around the strap as she inhaled deeply. She had to do this. Not just because it was a great opportunity. Not just because the contract was fair and safe. But because, somehow, ZGDX already felt like it belonged to her. Or rather—she already felt like she belonged there. Taking another breath to steady herself, she reached up and rang the doorbell. It didn't even take a full five seconds before the door swung open.

And standing there, arms crossed, an entirely too satisfied smirk playing on his lips—was Yue. "Finally," he drawled, tilting his head. "I was starting to think you were just gonna run away instead."

"I—I needed time." Yao scowled, shifting awkwardly.

"Yeah, yeah," Yue waved a hand. "Come on in, officially this time."

She hesitated for only a second before stepping inside, the familiar atmosphere washing over her as she adjusted the strap of her bag. The others were already gathered in the common area, as if they had been waiting for her.

Ming, seated with his tea as always, nodded toward her in greeting. Lao K and Pang exchanged grins. Lao Mao leaned back against the armrest, his usual relaxed demeanor never changing.

And then—

Sicheng, he was sitting on the couch, one arm resting on the back, his amber eyes already locked onto her the second she walked in.

Yao swallowed. She felt the weight of his gaze—sharp, watchful, steady. She knew he was waiting for one thing. She knew he wanted confirmation. Her fingers twitched, and before she could hesitate any longer, she reached into her bag, pulled out the contract, and without a word, placed it neatly on the coffee table in front of him.

Silence.

A very heavy silence.

Then—

Ming hummed. "So, it's official?"

Yao nodded slowly. "It's... official."

Lao K let out a low whistle. "Damn. Look at that. We got ourselves a real analyst now."