The Long Road to His Arms

chapter 4

I force a bitter smile and say,
"I went yesterday... they didn't accept me."

Nalan smirks. Naiyu looks at her with pleading eyes.
Nalan sighs and says,
"Fine, fine... don't look at me like that."

Naiyu brightens immediately.
"Really?!"she jumps up from her seat, excitement shining in her eyes.

Nalan can't help laughing, though her tone still carries a hint of mockery.
"Yes, really."

Nalan never treats me kindly... but it's obvious she loves Naiyu like a real sister.
Her behavior, her tone, the way she protects her-it's all clear.
I just never understand why she's always cold toward me.
She isn't like this with the other employees.
Sometimes I even wonder if she knows something about my past.

Naiyu, now relieved and cheerful, quickly returns to her usual playful joking.
Seeing her happy loosens the tightness in my chest, and I turn on my computer to finish the work I left halfway done.

Before noon, I manage to complete most of it.
Naiyu and Nalan work a little, chat a little, laugh a little... their usual flow.

Axiang had talked to Mr. Liang, and apparently it took a lot of effort, but he finally convinced him.
Nalan is supposed to be there at three.
Hearing this, I quietly let out a long breath and thank the heavens.
Another danger passed right by my ear.
Working near Hua Yong every day... listening to his mockery, his sharp comments-
I really wouldn't have survived that.

Nalan's voice pulls me back from my thoughts.
She looks at Naiyu and Axiang and says,
"Kids, let's go eat something. After that, you two will drop me off."

Naiyu stands up happily.
"Anything for my lovely cousin."

Nalan laughs.
"Go away, brat... look at you."

Axiang also grins.
"Come on before you two start fighting again."

Everyone stands up.
As always, Naiyu invites me to join them, but I refuse politely.
After saying goodbye to me, they walk to the door and leave the office.

The room turns quiet immediately after they're gone-
but I prefer this silence over the chaotic noise.
I'm starving, but I didn't bring anything to eat today.

So I bent over my desk, forcing myself to finish the files stacked in front of me.
My head felt heavy with hunger, but I kept typing anyway. There was no time to rest.

A soft knock sounded, and before I could respond, the door opened.

Uncle Ren stepped inside, a small tray in his hands.

"Shaoyou, son," he said warmly. "You didn't even come out for a break. I knew you must be starving."

I straightened in surprise.
"Uncle Ren...hello . I'm sorry. I was just trying to finish this report."

He waved his hand, dismissing my apology.
"No work is worth an empty stomach."

He set the tray down on my desk-a steaming cup of tea and two small wedding sweets.
"One of the staff got married today," he said. "Try them. They'll give you some strength."

I couldn't help smiling.
"Thank you, Uncle Ren. I really appreciate it."

"Eat, eat," he insisted. "Omega or Alpha, it doesn't matter. Your body needs fuel. Don't push yourself until you fall."

A small laugh slipped out of me, and I nodded.
"I'll eat. Promise."

Satisfied, he patted the edge of my desk.
"That's better. If you need anything, call me. Don't overwork yourself."