017
Liu Yuan was sweating profusely as he drove. Although Meng Zhiling's voice was not loud and he could not hear what the two were saying, the partition in the car was not raised, and he could see his boss affectionately sticking to Miss Jiang in the rearview mirror.
A shiver ran through him, and Liu Yuan withdrew his wandering eyes.
Upon hearing Meng Zhiling's words, Jiang Huali replied in the same way, "I miss you too."
She paused, then asked, "What's wrong today?"
Meng Zhiling was taken aback. He hadn't expected Jiang Huali to notice. He pretended to be nonchalant and said, "Maybe it's because I've been too busy with work lately and haven't been sleeping well."
Jiang Huali, of course, would not be fooled by such a clumsy excuse.
After all, Meng Zhiling's pitiful aura was almost overflowing.
Thinking of this, Jiang Huali hooked her finger around Meng Zhiling's, "I mean it, I really miss you."
Meng Zhiling leaned on her shoulder, and upon hearing those words, a low laugh came from her chest, which could be felt vibrating.
He paused for a long time before saying, "Yes, I know."
Meng Zhiling then explained, "I originally wanted to come see you earlier today to give you a surprise."
"I happened to run into Hu Yue again. When I got there, I saw you taking pictures with someone else. I was worried that there were outsiders around, and it would be difficult to explain our relationship, so I went back to the car to wait for you."
Jiang Huali has no plans to go public with her relationship at the moment, so Meng Zhiling naturally needs to pay close attention to this.
Jiang Huali suddenly realized why Meng Zhiling seemed to be in a bad mood when she saw him earlier.
The system reappeared then, [and this scene felt somewhat familiar.]
Like the secretly heartbroken female protagonist in the silly, sweet drama she's been watching lately.
Jiang Huali said, "No need to be so careful, just come find me next time."
Although she has no plans to go public right now, there's no need for her to be so cautious all the time.
Meng Zhiling's pitiful expression dissipated, and he replied, "Okay."
They returned to the hotel where Jiang Huali had stayed during filming. Meng Zhiling checked in but didn't go back to his own room; instead, he stayed in Jiang Huali's suite.
The two had lunch at the hotel. There was no work in the afternoon, and Jiang Huali was a little sleepy and wanted to take a nap.
Looking at Meng Zhiling sitting on the sofa, Jiang Huali hesitated for a moment and said to him, "I'm going to take a nap."
Meng Zhiling looked at her and said, "Then I'll go back first."
Jiang Huali shook her head and said, "Want to sleep together?"
The two hadn't seen each other for quite some time. Meng Zhiling also had work to do this time, so they managed to squeeze in a meeting amidst their busy schedules.
Jiang Huali felt it wasn't right to leave Meng Zhiling alone and go to sleep.
Meng Zhiling paused in her act of getting up, then stood up as usual and asked, "Is that alright?"
If you ignore his unnaturally clenched hands.
Jiang Huali yawned and said nonchalantly, "Sure, it's just a nap."
She walked inside, waved her hand with her back to Meng Zhiling, and said, "If you're not coming, go back. Remember to close the door properly."
Meng Zhiling certainly couldn't go back.
Jiang Huali arranged the pillows on the bed, patted the fluffy quilt, lay down, patted her side, and said, "You sleep here."
After she finished speaking, she closed her eyes and yawned, "I'm going to sleep now."
Jiang Huali was really sleepy and fell asleep quickly, her breathing gradually becoming steady and even.
Meng Zhiling did not lie down immediately, but sat down on the edge of the bed and looked at Jiang Huali's peaceful sleeping face.
Jiang Huali sleeps very peacefully, rarely moving around while asleep, and she habitually sleeps on her back in a very standard posture.
Meng Zhiling sighed softly.
He actually hoped that Jiang Huali's sleeping posture would be a little worse.
Meng Zhiling also lay down, moved closer to Jiang Huali, and left a gentle kiss on the corner of her eye.
Then he took her hand, which was placed at her side, and they intertwined their fingers.
Meng Zhiling also fell asleep.
On a sunny afternoon, my lover is fast asleep beside me, our hands clasped tightly, a peaceful and reassuring atmosphere.
Many years later, he would often recall this moment.
But things have changed, and he can only live on memories.
At some point, one can suddenly taste the bittersweet aftertaste.
-
In her first year back in the entertainment industry, Jiang Huali made a successful comeback with "Above the Clouds," thus beginning her journey to advancement.
In the same year, the film "The Voice," which focuses on people with autism, was released.
This film, though somewhat artistic, has still generated considerable buzz.
Jiang Huali's acting skills are visibly improving.
The following year, she won the Best Newcomer Award for her role as the female lead in a family-themed film, which also brought tears to the eyes of countless viewers.
In her third year, she played a supporting role in a period drama and won the Best Supporting Actress award.
That year, her status rose, and she established herself in the entertainment industry.
Over the past three years, Jiang Huali has filmed countless dramas, big and small, and practically lived in Hengdian, working from the moment she opened her eyes every day.
For the past three years, Meng Zhiling has been quietly standing behind her, taking time to accompany her while she was working, and his meticulous care has permeated every corner of her life.
That day, Jiang Huali was invited to do an interview. The interviewer was a female host with crescent-shaped eyes and a very friendly smile.
Jiang Huali now has her own makeup artist. Her outfit today is more androgynous and very capable. Her appropriate makeup complements her attire perfectly.
The interview took place in a modern, minimalist-style reception room.
The host sat opposite Jiang Huali.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, the host smiled and got down to business, asking, "What has Hua Li been busy with lately?"
Jiang Huali smiled and said, "I just finished filming 'Years' and am now preparing for my next project."
"Years" is a period drama she filmed recently, and her role in it has received a lot of praise since it aired.
Host: "Fans say that you've had a string of excellent works in recent years, which is also because you work very hard. Hua Li, could you share with us how you became an actress?"
"It was a bit of a coincidence, but I also had a lot of fun while acting. I hope to bring better works to the audience in the future."
The host then changed the subject: "Everyone is also very concerned about your love life. What are your thoughts on this?"
This topic was a bit sensitive, but Jiang Huali smiled and said, "I believe more in fate."
"However, I also want to take this opportunity to tell everyone something about my relationship status. I already have a partner."
The host already knew beforehand, so she wasn't too surprised. She asked, "So, what kind of person is your partner? Would you mind telling us?"
Jiang Huali said, "She is a very patient person."
Since prior notice had been given, the host did not ask any further questions, but only touched on the topic briefly.
The interview mainly focused on Jiang Huali's experience in the entertainment industry. After the interview, the host stood up, shook hands with Jiang Huali, and said, "It's a pleasure to interview you today. Thank you for your hard work."
Jiang Huali returned the gesture.
As Jiang Huali walked out of the interview room, Chen Xuan, who was waiting nearby, handed her her phone.
Jiang Huali opened her phone and saw a message from Meng Zhiling.
M: I'll cook tonight, I'll be home early.
Jiang Huali replied: 【Okay】
[Drooling.jpg]
The system, secretly sulking, chimed in: "[Come back soon~]"
Jiang Huali's smile faded, and she said in a feigned indifference, "Children shouldn't peek at adults dating."
System: [Hmph, fine, I won't watch then.]
After a while, it asked again: "Does Meng Zhiling know you're going to go public with your relationship?"
Jiang Huali got into the car and, upon hearing the system's question, replied: "I don't know right now."
The system inexplicably felt a pang of jealousy again: 【Oh.】
Jiang Huali is currently in the rising stage of her career, and the exposure of her relationship may have some negative impact on her, but Jiang Huali is not too worried.
She doesn't follow the path of a celebrity. A good actor's efforts won't be erased because of an ordinary relationship.
Jiang Huali returned to Huafu and bought some drinks at the supermarket in the community.
Meng Zhiling is cooking tonight, and the refrigerator is out of drinks, so she needs to buy some.
When I checked out, the cashier handed me a small gift bag and said, "Hello, this is our anniversary gift. Supermarket members can receive one when they shop today."
It was a very delicate little gift bag with colorful packaging. Jiang Huali didn't pay much attention to it, guessing it contained candy or something similar. She took it and casually put it into the shopping bag containing drinks.
"Thanks."
The apartment building has one elevator per unit. Jiang Huali takes the elevator and unlocks her door with her fingerprint when she arrives at her apartment.
As soon as you enter, you can faintly smell the aroma of food.
Jiang Huali casually placed the shopping bags on the cabinet in the entryway, changed her shoes, washed her hands, and sure enough, found Meng Zhiling busy in the kitchen.
A man's cooking skills are a woman's pride.
Meng Zhiling's cooking skills have improved over the years, and Jiang Huali's daily meals have gradually transitioned from being handled by Aunt Wang to being handled by Meng Zhiling.
Jiang Huali leaned against the door, vaguely feeling that this scene seemed to overlap with a scene from the past.
Meng Zhiling had his back to her. Hearing her footsteps, he didn't turn around. He looked at the soup simmering in the pot and said, "You're back? We can eat in a little while."
After saying that, he put the pot lid on, washed his hands, took off his apron, and then turned his head away.
Jiang Huali was still wearing the clothes she wore during the interview, and she had light makeup on her face.
She leaned against the door, watching him with a smile in her eyes.
Meng Zhiling's heart skipped a beat. He walked slowly to Jiang Huali, bent down slightly, and said in a low voice, "You're back so early today."
Having been together for so long, Jiang Huali was very familiar with Meng Zhiling's little gestures, and she couldn't possibly miss such an obvious attempt to kiss him.
She tilted her head back and kissed him, exchanging breaths with Meng Zhiling.
Meng Zhiling let out a slight pant and placed his hand on Jiang Huali's waist.
After the kiss, Jiang Huali's cheeks were slightly flushed, and Meng Zhiling wasn't much better off, her face turning red from her ears to her neck.
Jiang Huali calmed her breathing and said, "The interview ended early this afternoon, so I came back."
She asked, "What made you decide to come today? Where's Sprite?"
Meng Zhiling rested her chin on her neck and replied, "Meng Chu is on summer vacation, and Xuebi was picked up by her."
“I was all alone over there, and I missed you so much, so I came here.”
Meng Chu is already in college, and it's July now, the time of summer vacation.
After starting university, Mengchu's family became much more lenient with her. When she returned from school, she missed Xuebi very much, so she decided to bring Xuebi over to stay with her for a while.
Jiang Huali nodded to indicate that she understood, and pushed Meng Zhiling away, saying, "I'll go change my clothes first."
Jiang Huali went back to the master bedroom, quickly washed up, removed her makeup, changed into some loungewear, and came out of the room.
When they arrived at the dining table, Meng Zhiling had already brought out all the dishes, which were steaming hot and fragrant.
Jiang Huali went to the kitchen to get bowls and chopsticks, set them out, and pulled out a chair to sit down. Meng Zhiling washed his hands and came out of the kitchen to sit down next to her.
Halfway through the meal, Jiang Huali suddenly remembered something.
"I just bought some drinks at the neighborhood supermarket and forgot to bring them with me."
As he spoke, he got up to get the drink.
Upon hearing this, Meng Zhiling pressed down on Jiang Huali, who was trying to get up, and said, "You eat first, I'll go get it."
He stood up and asked, "Where?"
Jiang Huali pointed to the doorway and said, "It's on the cabinet next to the entryway."
Meng Zhiling nodded and walked over there.
Upon entering the foyer, there was indeed a large bag of drinks on the cabinet, which Meng Zhiling picked up.
Jiang Huali bought a lot of drinks, and she instructed, "Put them in the refrigerator first, and just give me a bottle of sparkling water."
Meng Zhiling responded indifferently, walked to the refrigerator, opened the refrigerator door, and took out the drinks from the shopping bag one by one and put them into the refrigerator.
After putting the drinks away, there was a small bag left in the shopping bag. Meng Zhiling took it out and asked Jiang Huali, "What's this?"
Jiang Huali looked over and saw the gift bag in Meng Zhiling's hand. She casually said, "It's a supermarket anniversary gift. It looks like candy. Why don't you open it and take a look?"
"Um."
When Meng Zhiling opened the gift bag and saw what was inside, his gaze paused for a moment, and he asked in a strange tone, "Candy?"
His voice wasn't loud, and Jiang Huali didn't hear him clearly, so she asked in a questioning tone, "Hmm?"
"nothing."
Meng Zhiling closed the bag and placed it on the coffee table in the living room.
He took the sparkling water that Jiang Huali wanted to drink and placed it next to her.
Jiang Huali opened the sparkling water, pulled the tab, and the bubbles hissed out.
She asked, "What gifts are in the bag?"
After waiting for two seconds, Meng Zhiling did not speak.
When Jiang Huali looked at him with suspicion, he said in a nonchalant tone, "It's nothing, just some daily necessities."
Jiang Huali nodded. The bag was so colorful that she thought it was a candy gift bag, but it turned out to be daily necessities.
Meng Zhiling ladled a bowl of soup into her bowl and said, "Eat quickly, or the food will get cold."
Jiang Huali picked up the bowl. "No, it's summer now, it won't cool down that quickly."
Meng Zhiling smiled but didn't say anything.
After finishing her meal, Jiang Huali put the dishes in the dishwasher and lay on the sofa for a while. Meng Zhiling came over and said to her, "I'm going to take a shower first."
Jiang Huali closed her eyes and nodded upon hearing this: "Then go ahead."
It's still early, and taking a shower at this time is a bit too early. But it's hot and humid in the summer, and people tend to sweat while cooking. Jiang Huali thought that Meng Zhiling was sweating and felt uncomfortable.
After Meng Zhiling went to take a shower, Jiang Huali continued to lie sprawled out on the sofa.
After a while, she opened her eyes, wanting to pour herself a glass of water. As she picked up the glass, she saw a gift bag on the table, picked it up casually, opened the bag, and wanted to take out the contents to take a look.
After taking it out, Jiang Huali paused.
It's a small box.
Although Jiang Huali had never eaten pork, she had seen pigs run.
Jiang Huali fell silent upon seeing the word "ultra-thin" on it.
She recalled Meng Zhiling's indistinct words during the meal, and Meng Zhiling's answer when she asked him about it.
Daily necessities?
Jiang Huali wanted to travel back to the time of the meal. If God could give her a second chance, she would absolutely, positively never ask that question.
No, she should go back to when she was buying drinks at the supermarket; she would never have accepted this anniversary gift.
The system had just woken up and saw Jiang Huali sitting motionless on the sofa. Still half asleep, it asked, "[What are you holding in your hand? Why is it covered in a layer of mosaic?]"
Upon hearing this, Jiang Huali immediately threw the box she was holding back into the bag.
She pulled the bag open slightly and said, "It's nothing, just daily necessities."
"Go to sleep now. Kids need to sleep early, or they won't grow tall."
The system, just woken up: [?]
Jiang Huali sat on the sofa, poured herself a glass of water, and took a sip.
Suddenly, he lay back down.
She covered her eyes.
Just as she was imagining a castle in her mind, a pair of hands suddenly removed her hands from her eyes.
"What's wrong?" Meng Zhiling's hair was slightly damp after taking a shower, and she smelled of the same shower gel as Jiang Huali.
Jiang Huali said weakly, "It's nothing."
Meng Zhiling's gaze shifted to the gift bag on the table. Seeing the open opening, she realized what had happened and chuckled, "You saw it?"
Jiang Huali sat up. "Yeah, I just asked you, and you wouldn't tell me what it was. I thought it was really candy."
Meng Zhiling smiled innocently: "It really is a daily necessity, I'm not lying to you."
Jiang Huali glared at him, but after a while she felt there was nothing to glare at, so she looked away, stood up and said, "I'm going to take a shower."
"Um?"
Meng Zhiling grabbed Jiang Huali's hand, stopping her from leaving, and asked with a smile, "Is this an invitation?"
When Jiang Huali realized what Meng Zhiling had said, a rare look of annoyance appeared on her face: "That was a gift from the supermarket's anniversary sale!"
She emphasized, "A gift! A gift!"
Meng Zhiling chuckled softly and said, "I know."
Jiang Huali's face was still flushed. She tried to shake off his hand, but Meng Zhiling held on tightly.
She calmed herself down and said, "It's not like I bought it specifically for you. I'm going to take a shower."
Meng Zhiling didn't let go, but pulled Jiang Huali's hand up. He pressed his cheek against Jiang Huali's palm, feeling the warmth flowing from it. He looked up at Jiang Huali and spoke.
"What I'm trying to ask is, don't you want to give it a try?"
Jiang Huali stammered for real this time, "Try...try what?"
Meng Zhiling smiled again and answered simply and bluntly, "Me."
Jiang Huali suddenly felt a little dizzy, for no other reason than that Meng Zhiling looked just too...
It's just too irresistible.
He had just finished showering, his eyes were still wet, and he looked at her with bright eyes.
Beauty is alluring.
Meng Zhiling was already exceptionally beautiful. Although she was usually aloof and reserved, she became especially endearing at times like this.
From the time they got together until now, they have never taken the final step.
Jiang Huali was busy filming, and Meng Zhiling didn't mention it either.
More often than not, they kiss, hug, and keep each other company.
Just like a couple who have been together for many, many years.
Just as Jiang Huali was still hesitating in a daze, Meng Zhiling suddenly let go of her hand and said gently, "I won't bother you anymore, go take a shower."
Jiang Huali was suddenly released and paused for a moment. Then she quickly placed a kiss on Meng Zhiling's lips, her tone like that of a bandit who had forcibly taken a man: "Let's try it!"
"You wait here!"
After saying that, Jiang Huali fled to the master bedroom as if she were escaping.
Meng Zhiling was left sitting alone on the sofa. He realized what was happening, lowered his head and smiled, then touched his lips with his slender finger.
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