Chapter 151: This Person, A Despairing Familiarity
Zhong Xiaoxiao wasn't alone.
She came with several classmates in tow.
Upon hearing what she had said, they all turned to look at Gu Qingjiu with their eyeballs nearly popping out!
'Damn, that's Gu Qingjiu?'
She was Gu Qingjiu who recently joined the military.
Gu Qingjiu didn't deliberately say something, but merely smiled and nodded. "I am Gu Qingjiu, Class Monitor."
It completely stunned Zhong Xiaoxiao.
The Gu Qingjiu she remembered had always been a girl of few words, who was wooden and slightly chubby and easily ignored in a crowd.
However, the Gu Qingjiu who stood before her had well-defined and exquisite features. She was unbelievably pretty that she gave off an exotic vibe; and most importantly, she was so fair that she glowed standing among a crowd.
With a smile on her face, there was an amused yet cold gaze in her eyes. But even so, her entire being seemed to shine.
It was vastly different from the person Zhong Xiaoxiao remembered.
Completely unbelievable!
Her first reaction was that Gu Qingjiu had gone for plastic surgery.
But how was that even possible when Gu Qingjiu went to train in the military?
Moreover, how could a plastic surgery end up so perfect that it did not leave any hint or trace?
Gu Qingjiu's facial features looked very natural.
Zhong Xiaoxiao swallowed her saliva. "You... just came out of the military?"
She didn't know what to say all of a sudden.
Facing Gu Qingjiu who had striking looks, those classmates who used to treat her like she was invisible in the past, felt like they were dealt a staggering blow.
"Yes, we just finished the three months assessment in the troops. I need to return a week later."
When she chose a different path from these people, it was likely that they wouldn't see each other ever again, especially that they didn't have any affinity with each other.
But on the account that they were still classmates, Gu Qingjiu didn't put a cold shoulder on them.
"A week? Does that mean you're spending two years in the military?" Compared with Gu Qingjiu's transformation, the fact that she was going to return to the military shocked Zhong Xiaoxiao even more.
Deep down, she thought that Gu Qingjiu was only going to train in the military for three months, and she wouldn't be able to take such training. Thus, she would end up leaving.
She didn't expect that Gu Qingjiu, who had undergone such a massive transformation, would still return to the military.
Zhong Xiaoxiao never thought about what would happen to Gu Qingjiu in the future; for in her eyes, Gu Qingjiu was an invisible person. After she had transformed by a mile, other than it was shocking, it didn't seem to evoke any other emotions.
But who in the class would have seen that coming?
"Mm. So Class Monitor, since you chose to take the college exams, do work hard for it."
Gu Qingjiu gave her sincere blessings with a smile.
Faced with her dazzling smile, Zhong Xiaoxiao replied in a dazed manner. "I will."
Gu Qingmo and the rest were gleeful to see Zhong Xiaoxiao and her classmates' reaction.
Their family had been so shocked to see such a big transformation in Gu Qingjiu back then, and indeed it was even more so for Gu Qingjiu's old classmates.
After exchanging a few brief words with Zhong Xiaoxiao, that was it.
Gu Qingjiu had no choice but to join the military. Although she was a little envious of Zhong Xiaoxiao and the rest at first, that envy gradually dissipated as she spent more days in the troops.
"Hi, the drinks you've ordered are here. Red tea, lemon water..."
A familiar and gentle voice rang by her ears.
Gu Qingjiu paused in surprise, turning her head in disbelief.
Instantly, it felt as though her surroundings went dead quiet.
It was like everything had lost its color, and only the waiter before her eyes was in color.
His eyes and his subtle smile, all bore a despairing and hateful familiarity for Gu Qingjiu.
Chapter 152: The Same as Before
His delicate and handsome side profile was still the same as Gu Qingjiu remembered.
He had an alluring appearance and an aura that was warm and gentle like a piece of precious jade.
The person was Su Lingche.
Gu Qingjiu widened her eyes, staring at him in utter disbelief.
She dared not believe that he would be around and that she ran into him that quickly after her rebirth.
When did Su Lingche come to Dayi City to be a waiter?
Gu Qingjiu suddenly recalled that in her previous life, Su Lingche told her that he had been working part-time while studying, earning his school fees by tutoring others.
Su Lingche usually had a disdainful look at the mention of a service job like waiting tables.
It turned out he had worked as a waiter before. He had been deceiving her right from the start!
The gaze in Gu Qingjiu's eyes was too obvious, so obvious that Gu Qingmo pulled on her sleeves. "Qingjiu?"
There was a doubtful look on his eyes as he stared at Su Lingche.
Su Lingche was around to help out at the Milk Tea shop to earn some allowance.
Since he had a rather striking appearance, he was long used to girls starting at him.
But it was the first time he saw someone like Gu Qingjiu.
She was very pretty, the kind of exquisite prettiness that made one feel comfortable without makeup.
Amidst the crowd, her fairness was eye-catching.
Right from the start, Su Lingche had noticed her.
Her quiet demeanor as she sat there like a glass of iced water, made one feel refreshed just by looking at her.
And at the moment, her gaze at him was a little weird.
As if there was a terrifying sarcasm amidst disbelief.
The way she was staring at him gave him shivers. Su Lingche, who deemed himself attractive to the female population, wasn't in the mood to showcase his attractiveness. He lowered her head and uneasily cleared away the tray. "Your food is ready."
He then walked away and passed through the crowd.
Gu Qingjiu's gaze followed Su Lingche as he went away, and it was as if her gaze could burn a hole through him.
"Qingjiu, you know that guy?"
Yao Yanshen looked at Gu Qingjiu with a puzzled look. From his cousin's gaze, it didn't seem as though she was interested in that guy...
"No."
It was a cold and stiff reply. Gu Qingjiu lowered her head and started drinking her water.
Gu Qingmo raised a brow, then in a seemingly casual manner, he asked, "I feel like you're acting a little weird ever since you joined the military. Do you know that guy? Do you have a feud with him?"
Without a doubt, the Gu family members were the ones who knew Gu Qingjiu the best.
Especially her older brother.
With one glance he could tell that the Gu Qingjiu's gaze at Su Lingche was definitely not an amorous one.
Gu Qingjiu didn't get flustered upon hearing this, but instead, managed to calm down. She pursed her lips and replied with a slight smile, "No, Brother. How can I have a feud with a stranger?"
They indeed had a feud.
If she were to pin the cause of her death on Su Lingche, it would be a blood feud!
However...
She didn't expect to run into Su Lingche at such a place.
Even if Gu Qingjiu was overwhelmed with turbulent emotions in her heart, she had to remain calm on the surface.
Thankfully, it had been several months since her rebirth, so she was able to calmly deal with running into Su Lingche again.
To be running into Su Lingche at such a place, they indeed had an affinity!
She lowered her head, a smile on her lips, and an unconcealable blood-thirstiness in her eyes.
Chapter 153: A Feeling He Shouldn't Be Having
"Lingche, you seem to have great charm. Look, you only brought food over to that table, and yet, that girl keeps staring at you. You're indeed our school's Prince Charming! Everywhere you go, girls go wild for you!"
When Su Lingche took a clean tray behind the counter, his classmate Zhao Hui walked over. There was a mischievous grin on his face.
Even if the way that girl stared at him made him feel weird, Su Lingche wasn't sick of such compliments no matter how many times he had heard them. He suppressed the doubts he had earlier and smiled lightly. In a seemingly nonchalant manner, he replied, "I'm used to it."
He said it lightly as if he didn't really care.
As if Su Lingche was already used to such situations.
"But seriously, I think that girl is not bad looking! Look at how fair her skin is, it's practically glowing."
Zhao Hui said that with a sigh as he gazed at Gu Qingjiu, and he looked like he was going to drool.
Somehow, seeing Zhao Hui's gaze, Su Lingche felt uncomfortable.
As if the fellow was coveting something that belonged to him.
Such a feeling shocked Su Lingche.
He had only seen that girl for a brief moment.
But why did he feel that way?
Even with such thoughts, he certainly wouldn't reveal it on the surface.
Zhao Hui was the shop's boss's son.
Su Lingche and Zhao Hui were both fourth-year students at North City's Liuhe University and were soon to graduate.
They were supposed to be interning that semester, but Su Lingche didn't have a high chance of entering a top-notch company. Even if it was just failing once, Su Lingche wouldn't accept it.
If it was a subpar company, Su Lingche wouldn't have deigned to intern there.
It was then that Zhao Hui claimed that his family had some influence in Dayi City. Since Su Lingche and Zhao Hui were on pretty good terms, it gave him an idea.
Zhao Hui invited Su Lingche to play in Dayi City for a few days, and Su Lingche immediately agreed.
After they had reached the city, Zhao Hui's mother asked his son to intern for a few days in his family's Milk Tea shop first. Su Lingche, on the other hand, had to create a good impression so that the Zhao family would help him seek internship opportunities. Hence, he helped out in the shop.
"Hai. Seriously speaking, that girl is not bad. There's a certain vigor about her. Lingche, if you don't fancy her, I'm going to make a move!"
Zhao Hui was considered a rich second-generation heir and was decent looking. Although he was not as handsome as Su Lingche, with some packaging he would do just fine.
He was famous for being a playboy in school. Since he said he was going to make a move on her, he likely was confident of success.
But this made Su Lingche feel uncomfortable.
Su Lingche raised his head and looked at Gu Qingjiu who was seated there, his eyes meeting hers.
But by then, Gu Qingjiu had already sorted her emotions. When she met Su Lingche's gaze, she merely arched her lips up into a cold smile.
Even through the crowd, Su Lingche could sense a piercing coldness.
All of a sudden, he felt it hard to accept.
He kept feeling that it shouldn't be that way.
"Ah! They're leaving."
Zhao Hui's words made Su Lingche turn his gaze towards her again.
However this time, what he saw was Gu Qingjiu and her group's departing figures.
Add to the fact they were too busy in the shop, there wasn't much time to think about these matters.
Su Lingche held back the weird feeling in his heart, and he quickly forgot about it.
As for Gu Qingjiu, she and her group went to the cinema since it was time for their movie.
Chapter 154: Going to KTV
When they reached the cinema, Yu Bao'er and her companions hadn't reached yet.
Gu Qingjiu called to ask her, and she found out they were still on the way.
Gu Qingjiu and her company had no choice but to enter the cinema first.
Those two groups of people weren't going to watch the same movie, anyway.
But running into Su Lingche was indeed something Gu Qingjiu hadn't expected.
Hence, Gu Qingjiu felt distracted throughout the movie.
The events of her previous life replayed in her eyes just like a movie, and it made her feel vexed.
Even until coming out from the theater, Gu Qingjiu hadn't touched the popcorn at all.
On the other hand, Gu Xiaoxi had traces of popcorn all over her mouth.
Gu Qingjiu took a tissue and helped her wipe it clean. Still, she didn't see Yu Bao'er.
After seeing that the movie Yu Bao'er was going for was already being played, Gu Qingjiu thought that the latter might have already gone in.
She was hesitating whether to continue waiting for Yu Bao'er, because looking at Gu Qingmo and the rest, they clearly had other plans.
At the same time, Gu Qingmo coincidentally received a phone call.
"Sister Qingjiu, was the movie nice?"
Gu Xiaoxi suddenly raised her head and blinked her large and watery eyes at Gu Qingjiu.
Her little face, which was so adorable it melted one's heart, made Gu Qingjiu pause in surprise.
Gu Qingjiu really hadn't noticed if the movie was nice or not...
Throughout the movie, she was thinking about something else.
Even in retrospect, she couldn't recall the contents of the movie, only vaguely remembering it should be a light-hearted comedy.
She nodded and said, "Nice. Does Xiaoxi find it nice?"
Gu Xiaoxi shook her head and answered honestly, "Xiaoxi is too young and doesn't understand some parts."
She was after all only around seven to eight-years-old. The movie didn't seem geared towards children and some terms were too difficult for a child to understand, too. They could only sense the joyous mood.
"It's great that you could still understand some parts already. Next time, Sister Qingjiu will take Xiaoxi to watch an anime. Boys like to watch those, but not us."
Gu Qingjiu rubbed the tip of her little nose, a vibrant smile sparkling in her eyes.
Next to them, Yao Yanshen was looking at them, and he was feeling a little odd.
It had merely been a few months since he last saw this cousin. He came over last Midautumn's Festival, and Gu Qingjiu appeared wooden and dim-witted then.
Simply joining the military caused her to undergo such a huge transformation.
Although people say it's tiring and tough to join the military, Yao Yanshen felt that with Gu Qingjiu's transformation, she clearly got a good deal joining the army!
Just then, Gu Qingmo was done talking on the phone. "Qingjiu, Yanshen, let's bring Xiaoxi back home first. Let's not have dinner at home, but go to the KTV to sing and have fun since my friends are inviting us out."
Gu Qingjiu raised her eyebrow in disbelief. "Didn't you forbid me from going to such a place in the past?"
KTVs seemed a little indecent to adults.
But in the eyes of youngsters, it was an awesome place to have fun!
When Gu Qingmo went to have fun at such places with his good pals before, he never brought Gu Qingjiu along.
Yao Yanshen laughed at this. "Qingjiu, your brother didn't let you go back then because you were underaged."
Actually, some KTV wasn't as complex as people would imagine; but it's definitely not suitable for kids to go there.
Gu Qingmo had kept a close watch on his younger sister about it, and he definitely didn't allow her to go to such places.
Chapter 155: How Did You Suddenly Have Such a Big Child?
"Yeah, you've come of age. It's time for you to expand your horizons."
Gu Qingmo smiled and agreed with what Yao Yanshen said.
Gu Qingjiu thought about it, and she actually had never been to those places.
Perhaps because she felt overprotected before, Gu Qingjiu was very curious about venues such as bars and KTV. Hence, she nodded. "Okay, then I want to go."
She then slightly lowered her head and coaxed Gu Xiaoxi. "Xiaoxi, we have something on later. You'll follow your parents, okay?"
The little Gu Xiaoxi pouted, looking aggrieved.
Although she was young, it was clear to her that they were abandoning her and were going out to play without her.
"I want to come along!"
Gu Xiaoxi refused to oblige as she twisted her body.
Holding the child in her arms, Gu Qingjiu was in a difficult position and it showed on her face.
It was definitely a no-no to bring Gu Xiaoxi along, especially that she was way too young for such venues. If Qi Yuefeng found out about this, she would probably give the three of them a good beating!
Gu Xiaoxi refused to listen. Yao Yanshen simply squatted down and lifted Gu Xiaoxi into his arms, and he said, "You're becoming more and more disobedient, aren't you? I'll tell mother, would you believe me?"
It was evident he frequently said something of the likes. It seemed like all older brothers behaved in such a way.
His words did not scare Gu Xiaoxi, but rather, it was his tone of voice that made her feel unhappy. Her eyes reddened in an instant, looking like she was about to cry.
Gu Qingjiu hurriedly carried the child from him, and she said with a slight frown, "Cousin, Xiaoxi was unhappy about the fact that we're not bringing her along, and yet, you're still so fierce to her."
Feeling like she found protection in Gu Qingjiu, Gu Xiaoxi circled her arms around Gu Qingjiu's neck and leaned against her.
Her little body was slightly shaking like she was crying.
They were still in the cinema, and passersby started looking over at them with weird stares.
Perhaps embarrassed that people were staring at him, Yao Yanshen explained, "I wasn't fierce to her. But Gu Xiaoxi is becoming pettier and pettier, and it's my dad's fault for spoiling her!"
A family that had a strict mother naturally had an amicable father.
Yao Liguo was one such father who indulged his children.
"Alright, you're already a grown-up and you're still fighting with your younger sister? Can you look more like an older brother?"
Gu Qingmo rolled his eyes. Since he was of the same age as Yao Yanshen, he didn't bother being polite with him.
Yao Yanshen helplessly shrugged his shoulders. "Gu Xiaoxi and I aren't like you and Qingjiu."
Siblings have different ways of interacting; Yao Yanshen and Gu Xiaoxi were the kind of siblings who squabble all the time.
Gu Qingjiu comforted Gu Xiaoxi, while Gu Qingmo rebuked Yao Yanshen for not coaxing his younger sister. After that, he called Qi Yuefeng on his phone.
He asked her if they could pick Gu Xiaoxi up or if they should bring her over themselves.
In any case, they couldn't bring Gu Xiaoxi along with them to where they were headed.
Hearing Gu Qingmo make the call, Gu Xiaoxi turned her head around with her clean little face—not a single teardrop was seen.
But when she heard what Gu Qingmo said, her little mouth heavily pouted.
Gu Qingjiu felt like laughing when she saw Gu Xiaoxi's manner. In the past, this child gave others an impression of obedience and politeness, but now it seemed like she had grown a little and had her own little temper.
She only revealed her true temperament since the adults weren't around.
Also, there was Gu Qingjiu indulging her.
Suddenly, Gu Qingjiu heard Yu Bao'er's voice coming from the back.
"Ehh Qingjiu, how did you suddenly have such a big child?"
Chapter 156: Yu Bao'er, Whose Eyes Lit Up
There was mischief in her voice.
Gu Qingjiu twisted her head and looked over. She saw Yu Bao'er wearing a blue medium-long coat and black tights, complete with a pair of black low-heeled fur boots, making her look tall and slim. She exuded the vibrancy of youth as she walked towards Gu Qingjiu full of smiles.
"What are you talking about? This is my cousin."
Yu Bao'er was used to speaking casually with Gu Qingjiu. When she walked over, Gu Qingjiu reached out and gently pinched her face.
"Heh, heh. It was kind of strange to see you carrying a child!" Yu Bao'er smiled cheerfully. When she turned her head and saw Gu Qingmo, her eyes lit up. "Ah, you're Xiao Jiu'er's older brother aren't you? Hello, we meet again!"
She didn't have the reserved manner most girls had when facing a good-looking boy at all.
Yu Bao'er was a gracious and direct person, to begin with.
But Gu Qingjiu knew Yu Bao'er—the glint in her eyes was way too obvious.
When she was in the military zone, she said she was going to woo Doctor Nan, to get to know him first. But after getting to know him for a month, she still didn't take any action. Now that they're leaving the military zone, all the more she didn't have a chance.
Perhaps she had given up.
The way she was excited at seeing Gu Qingmo, it was solely a reaction of hers whenever she meets a handsome guy.
"Oh... hello, hello."
Gu Qingmo didn't have a deep impression of Yu Bao'er.
After all they had only met briefly that one time. Moreover, Gu Qingmo usually never paid much attention to other girls; hence, he just politely smiled when he saw Yu Bao'er.
On the other hand, at the sight of Yu Bao'er, there was an interesting glint in Yao Yanshen's eyes.
Now that Qingjiu had become pretty, she seemed to be hanging out with better-looking friends, too.
Gu Qingjiu also noticed the way Yao Yanshen was looking at Yu Bao'er, so she immediately introduced her to the group. "This is my good friend in the troops, Yu Bao'er. You guys can just call her Bao'er. Bao'er, this is my cousins Gu Xiaoxi and Yao Yanshen. And this, I have introduced to you the last time, is my older brother Gu Qingmo."
"Got it, got it."
Yu Bao'er nodded vigorously. Gu Xiaoxi, who was in Gu Qingjiu's arms, greeted her sweetly. "Sister Bao'er."
Yu Bao'er was initially looking at Yao Yanshen, but upon hearing Gu Xiaoxi's voice, her heart nearly melted.
"Aye. Xiaoxi. Hello there."
Most people had a soft spot for children's cute voices when greeting them.
Especially when it's a child as adorable as Gu Xiaoxi.
Indeed, Yu Bao'er couldn't shift her eyes away from her.
Gu Qingjiu looked behind Yu Bao'er and noticed there were guys and girls who were dressed fashionably and stylishly like her, and they were waiting for her. Hence, she asked, "You're with your friends? Why don't we come out again some other day?"
"No need, we were just looking for someplace to have fun. Shall we go together? You guys heading somewhere?"
There were loads of events everywhere during the new year; hence, Yu Bao'er wanted to go have fun with Gu Qingjiu.
While Gu Qingjiu was hesitant if she should ask Yu Bao'er along, Gu Qingmo spoke up. "We're going to KTV tonight, as well as dinner. You and your friends are welcome to join us. Wanna come along?"
"KTV?"
Yu Bao'er's eyes lit up instantly. As she looked at Gu Qingmo, there was shyness on her face. "Okay, me and my friends were just fretting over where to head to next."
Gu Qingjiu wanted to laugh out loud seeing Yu Bao'er's manner.
She wondered what Yu Bao'er's expression would be when the latter found out her older brother already had a girlfriend.
Chapter 157: Entertainment
Yu Bao'er only said that she had a good impression of her older brother. Towards who she liked, she never concealed her feelings.
It was evident from the way she moved on from Doctor Nan so quickly.
But Gu Qingjiu had to let her give up on this thought too, lest Yu Bao'er sink deeper.
"Okay, Bao'er, go and ask your friends. But we need to bring Xiaoxi back first."
Yu Bao'er nodded, and she said, "Okay, then we'll wait for you guys here."
Gu Qingmo suddenly told Yao Yanshen to carry Gu Xiaoxi, and he said, "No need. You can wait with your friend for us here. When we've arrived, I will call you."
Gu Qingjiu nodded without hesitation. "Alright, then you guys bring Xiaoxi back."
The minute Gu Xiaoxi heard she was about to be brought back, her eyes turned watery as she gazed at Gu Qingjiu.
Gu Qingjiu felt heartache for her, but they had no choice.
She could only watch as her brother and cousin carried Gu Xiaoxi away.
Yu Bao'er felt some sympathy towards Gu Xiaoxi, too. But at that moment, she had more pressing matters.
After Gu Qingmo and his cousins left, she pulled Gu Qingjiu towards where her friends were. She sneakily asked, "Qingjiu, does your brother have a girlfriend?"
Gu Qingjiu had seen this question coming.
She glanced at her, a smile involuntarily appearing on her lips. "Drop the idea. My brother already has a girlfriend in the capital."
Yu Bao'er's excitement was instantly extinguished.
She looked deflated.
"The heavens are unfair to me! I wanted to become your sister-in-law!"
It was the least of her expectations that her ideas would be crushed so quickly.
Although Yu Bao'er was lacking a little in morals, if she knew the other party already had a girlfriend, she absolutely wouldn't lay a finger on him.
If she met someone she liked and was single, it was her own business to woo that person.
But it was clear she had to pass Gu Qingmo over.
Seeing Yu Bao'er's sad and angered expression, Gu Qingjiu nearly burst out laughing.
She wanted to drag her cousin into this, but considering she had no idea if he already had a girlfriend, it would be terrible if she made a blunder. Hence, she wisely chose not to say anything.
Yu Bao'er led Gu Qingjiu to her friends and introduced her to them.
It turned out this group of people was all Yu Bao'er's relatives.
They were guests at Yu Bao'er's house that day.
The adults had gone to seek their own entertainment; hence, the youngsters had to find some way to have fun themselves.
Knowing they were heading to the KTV, these youngsters agreed and looked excited.
Looking at their reaction, they clearly frequented such places.
Gu Qingjiu only knew Yu Bao'er; hence, she didn't much speak to the rest.
She quietly sat down and waited for Gu Qingmo's call, chatting sporadically with Yu Bao'er in the meantime.
Shortly after, Gu Qingmo's call came.
Although it was true that she felt a little awkward around Yu Bao'er's relatives, her own personality also had something to do with it.
She hoped that when they arrived at the KTV, Gu Qingmo would be able to chat a word or two with them.
Gu Qingmo asked Gu Qingjiu to look for them at a hotel. It seemed as if there were plenty of people coming.
Yu Bao'er initially wanted to come along, but upon hearing that it was a hotel and that Gu Qingmo had his friends over, she decided not to tag along for dinner and told Gu Qingjiu they'll meet up at the KTV after dinner.
There was nothing wrong with the suggestion, and Gu Qingjiu also didn't feel it was a good idea to talk her into joining them since after all, Gu Qingmo's classmates were around.
But they could meet up to have fun later on at night.
Hence, Gu Qingjiu agreed on the time she would meet with Yu Bao'er before leaving for the hotel.
Chapter 158: Here For the First Time
Those that had called Gu Qingmo were his old classmates, and they were also his childhood friends.
Now they were studying in various cities around the country, it was only during New Year's Time that they could gather together.
Over ten guys and girls in their twenties were there. When Gu Qingjiu saw this, she felt glad that Yu Bao'er didn't come as well.
At the dining table, Gu Qingmo and this bunch of old classmates had a great time talking.
As for Gu Qingjiu, she quietly sat by his side, eating her own food. She would only speak up a word or two if someone spoke to her.
Gu Qingmo rarely brought Gu Qingjiu along to such events, so even some of his old classmates had no idea Gu Qingmo had a younger sister.
Seeing Gu Qingmo's younger sister was so pretty, they kept heaping praises on her.
Gu Qingjiu was getting really sick of hearing it, though.
At that moment, she was only wondering when they were heading to the KTV.
It was because she had never been to such a place before, that Gu Qingjiu wanted so badly to go.
After being bound for too long, there were many places Gu Qingjiu wanted to visit.
This group of people ate from five in the afternoon and all the way to nearly eight in the evening.
The skies outside had completely darkened.
With the night scenery as a backdrop, the colorful neon lights drenched the city in a glamorous glow.
One would feel dazed standing amidst such lights.
The instant they stepped out of the hotel, Gu Qingjiu felt chilly.
There was a heater inside the hotel and after staying inside for a long while, the outdoors felt extremely cold. The contrasting temperatures were difficult to bear for some.
Most of them had their necks shrunk. They stomped their feet, saying they ought to get to the KTV as soon as possible to sing.
The group of over ten people booked several cabs online and headed to their destination.
On the way there, Gu Qingjiu called Yu Bao'er.
Other than the driver, there were four people in the car. Gu Qingjiu, who sat in the front passenger seat, noticed that other than her cousin and older brother, another girl followed them into the car and was seated right next to Gu Qingmo.
She had long and flowy hair, wore a beige-colored coat, and appeared intellectual and gracious. She had exquisite-looking eyes, and with her long legs crossed, her black stockings gave off a somewhat seductive vibe.
She was probably the kind of girl regarded as a goddess by guys.
And she was seated beside Gu Qingmo.
When Gu Qingjiu called Yu Bao'er, she kept hearing this girl chatting with Gu Qingmo, seemingly casually asking him about how he was doing lately.
One could sense that this goddess regarded Gu Qingmo as different from others.
Gu Qingmo had a dashing appearance and had been a popular and influential person in school since young.
Basketball, piano, guitar, and stuff like that were easy to him; also, he always had stellar academic results.
He was the person Gu Qingjiu admired most in the world.
She considered herself extremely lucky to have such a person as an older brother.
But because of her inferiority complex, the past Gu Qingjiu never revealed his brother's existence to anyone.
Gu Qingjiu wasn't surprised that her older brother was popular.
Hence, it didn't strike her as unusual to see a goddess-like girl hitting on Gu Qingmo.
Gu Qingmo perhaps could tell, but he had answered the questions she asked graciously.
But it was merely out of politeness, and he hadn't implied any other meaning. Whether the goddess would misunderstand depended on her level of comprehension.
The bored Yao Yanshen played on his phone beside them throughout.
When they reached the KTV, everyone got out of the car.
When Gu Qingmo got out, he pulled Gu Qingjiu's arm and then walked in with the rest.
Chapter 159: Their Doomed Affinity
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
This KTV was rather large.
Looking at how excited those people were, Gu Qingjiu could tell that this was the most luxurious KTV in Dayi City.
The inner decor was resplendent, and everywhere you look it was a dazzling shade of gold.
The lobby was spacious, and they placed large bonsai plants to divide the place into sections.
Looking to the left, it was an S-shape corridor, and they could hear a deafening sound coming from that direction.
Several of them went to book a room together. Gu Qingjiu didn't have to wait for long in the lobby before Yu Bao'er arrived with her relatives.
Seeing so many people in the lobby, it startled Yu Bao'er.
"Wah, so many people!"
Seeing Yu Bao'er's shocked gaze, Gu Qingjiu asked, "They're my brother's old classmates. We can just ignore them and sing on our own later."
Yu Bao'er came with a few people in tow.
However, Yu Bao'er had some hesitation.
She lowered her voice and edged close to Gu Qingjiu. "Qingjiu, look at how many people there are here. I'm not familiar with your brother's friends, so I'm a little embarrassed to join them. Why don't we book a suite on our own to sing? You and me."
Gu Qingjiu's brows furrowed slightly.
Well, she was only familiar with Yu Bao'er and not with her relatives.
But on the other side, at least, she had her older brother Gu Qingmo.
But Yu Bao'er and her group's personality were indeed awkward. Moreover, everyone might have to wait a long time for their turn to sing since many of them came over.
After mulling over for several minutes, Gu Qingjiu sighed and nodded. "Okay, I'll accompany you."
She was already there anyway.
Gu Qingmo had the company of his old classmates, so it's suitable that she accompanied Yu Bao'er.
Seeing Gu Qingjiu consent, Yu Bao'er happily went to book a suite. Gu Qingjiu went over and told Gu Qingmo about this.
Gu Qingmo frowned a little. Although he was somewhat worried, he still agreed to let Gu Qingjiu join her friends in another suite after considering the circumstances. He went to the reception and asked for the two groups to book adjacent rooms, so that if something were to happen, he could easily find her.
After ordering some snacks, Gu Qingjiu and Yu Bao'er and her group went into their suite.
The suite was the size of a living room and was brightly lit. It even had a coffee-colored leather sofa lined along the walls.
Also, colorful lights hung from the ceiling that illuminated everyone's faces, making them seem like demons.
Gu Qingjiu felt curious. Since it was her first time visiting such a place, she curiously looked around.
Those who frequented such places had already chosen their songs. Seeing Gu Qingjiu appear kind of silly, which was quite rare of her, Yu Bao'er laughed out loud.
Gu Qingjiu felt a little embarrassed. After all, it was her first time there and everything was new to her; hence, her curiosity.
Halfway through singing her first song, Yu Bao'er suddenly felt like having some fruit beer, so she secretly pulled Gu Qingjiu with her to order some.
With Gu Qingmo around, she didn't dare to order.
She was afraid Gu Qingmo would think Yu Bao'er was leading Gu Qingjiu astray.
She had just opened the door to go out, when Gu Qingjiu saw a group of people who seemed to be the KTV manager and several waiters. They all had a nervous expression as they led a group of people in.
There were people of different sizes in that group, and most of them seemed to be middle-aged.
However, the two people leading the group were two youths.
He Niancheng and Huo Yingcheng!
That moment, Yu Bao'er nearly cussed in her heart.
There was no one else around, and the minute Gu Qingjiu and Yu Bao'er came out of that door they were completely exposed.
Gu Qingjiu looked towards that group of people. Her eyes met He Niancheng's eyes and also Huo Yingcheng's shocked expression.
Suddenly, three pairs of eyes looked at each other.
Two of them were dumbfounded.
And one of them had a gaze so cold it could freeze someone to death!
Chapter 160: You Have Any Complaints About Your Superior Coming Here?
The dumbfounded ones were Huo Yingcheng and Gu Qingjiu.
Walking in front and surrounded by a crowd, He Niancheng looked like the moon with a myriad of stars around him.
His perfectly chiseled face appeared as striking as ever even amidst the resplendent lights.
Exuding a powerful aura, he coldly looked towards where Gu Qingjiu was and was struck with surprise.
Running into her Chief Instructor in such a place made Gu Qingjiu feel awkward and sheepish for some reason.
She felt sheepish with the entire situation, so how much more with Yu Bao'er?
The latter was so startled that her soul nearly flew out of her body.
Huo Yingcheng and his party were walking en route to their respective rooms. But after seeing Gu Qingjiu and Yu Bao'er, they halted their pace and looked towards them.
Others, who felt perplexed, had stopped in their tracks as well and were looking towards these two girls.
Amidst the awkward atmosphere, it was Huo Yingcheng who spoke first. "Qingjiu, you're really bold. You're supposed to return to the troops in a few days' time and you still came to such a place? Do you know that the rules prohibit recruits from coming to such places?"
Huo Yingcheng spoke in a quiet tone, and he didn't sound pleased.
But when they looked at his eyes, they could see a smile in them.
He was clearly teasing them.
Gu Qingjiu felt alarmed at hearing this. There was such a rule in the troops?
But when she looked up at Huo Yingcheng's gaze, she realized he was only teasing her.
Just as she was about to answer, she caught sight of the Chief Instructor's gaze that looked even colder.
Gu Qingjiu felt her heart stop.
On the other hand, feeling bold because she was not in the troops already, Yu Bao'er directly answered, "Commander Huo, we're not doing anything. We just came here to sing, to feel the festive mood. Moreover, aren't you guys in such a place, too?"
Yu Bao'er asking them all so suddenly caused Huo Yingcheng's gaze to sweep towards Yu Bao'er.
He deliberately teased her. "Lass, you have quite a sharp tongue, huh? But do you have any complaints about your superior coming here?"
Yu Bao'er exclaimed, "How would I have the guts?!"
Amused with Yu Bao'er's reply, Huo Yingcheng waved a hand. "Forget it. I was just kidding with you guys. Qingjiu, remember to go back early."
Hearing Commander Huo's words of concern, Gu Qingjiu finally nodded and said something. "Commander Huo, don't worry. My brother is here as well. He's in the adjacent room. We're just out for a gathering."
Hearing this, Huo Yingcheng nodded.
His group continued on their way.
He Niancheng said nothing throughout.
As he passed by Gu Qingjiu, he retracted his oppressive gaze that he directed towards her.
Gu Qingjiu felt relieved that he didn't say anything.
It was only after they went up the spiral staircase that Yu Bao'er stuck out her tongue.
"Gave me such a shock. I didn't expect we'd run into Commander Huo and Chief Instructor in a place like this. Didn't you say that Commander Huo went away because he had to handle something? He's back again?"
When they left, Commander Huo had yet to return.
Gu Qingjiu replied quietly, "Perhaps he came back today. Let's not bother ourselves with this. It's fine if they won't blab. Didn't you want to drink fruit wine? You still want it?"
"Of course!" Yu Bao'er quickly pushed Gu Qingjiu towards the counter. "Let's hurry. If someone opens the door to their suite and someone came out suddenly, we're going to get caught."
Gu Qingjiu nodded helplessly and followed Yu Bao'er.