Chapter 9
Grandma's test results came back, revealing an old heart condition caused by overwork, requiring hospitalization for observation. A specialist developed a treatment plan, which was expensive, but with Ling Yao's continued financial support, and medical insurance covering most of the costs, Su Rui no longer had to worry about money.
He took a long vacation and stayed in the ward day and night. When his grandmother fell asleep, he would lie down beside her bed to take a nap, or take out his textbooks to review. Occasionally, he would stare blankly at the manila envelope that had once contained the money.
Ling Yao never sent another message, nor did he show up again. But the woman named Sister Yang would call regularly, asking about the patient's condition and medical expenses in a businesslike tone, and then neatly arranging follow-up. This efficient yet cold support was like an invisible barrier, providing both protection and a clear demarcation.
Su Rui's emotions were complex and indescribable. He was immensely grateful for Ling Yao's help. Without him, Grandma might have… He didn't dare think any further. But within this gratitude, there was also an undeniable sense of humility and a subtle hint of… loss. It was as if he were just a pet, kept captive on a whim, a little care and concern when he was pleased, but never touched personally.
A week later, grandma's condition improved. She was able to walk around and was in much better spirits. She always held Su Rui's hand and naggingly said, "Xiao Rui, your classmate... is really a great benefactor to our family... When grandma gets better, you must thank him well and invite him to have a meal at home..."
Su Rui could only respond vaguely, feeling a pang of sadness in his heart. Inviting Ling Yao to his home? In that small, shabby, tube-shaped building without even a single decent piece of furniture? He couldn't imagine that scene.
That afternoon, Su Rui was washing fruit for her grandmother in the bathroom when her cell phone vibrated again.
This time, there was an extra word: "Discharged?"
Su Rui's heart skipped a beat, and she quickly wiped her hands and replied, "Not yet, but grandma is much better. The doctor said she can be discharged after a few more days of observation. Thank you very much."
He hesitated for a moment, then, remembering his grandmother's words, mustered up the courage to add, "Grandma said she wanted to thank you and treat you...to a meal."
After sending it, he stared at the screen nervously and could almost hear his own heartbeat.
This time, the other party replied quickly, but the content was like a bucket of cold water, instantly extinguishing the tiny hope he had just raised. "Okay. No need to say."
Those three cold words were so decisive that there was no room for maneuver.
Su Rui looked at the words, slowly lowering her eyes, a bitter smile curling up at the corners of her mouth. As expected... that was it. What was he expecting? Was he hoping Ling Yao would actually set foot in his despicable world?
He put away his phone, picked up the washed fruit, tried to adjust his expression, and then walked into the ward.
"Xiao Rui, whose message is this?" Grandma asked casually.
"Nothing... nothing, just a spam message." Su Rui lowered her head and picked up an apple to cover up the situation. "Grandma, eat an apple."
Life returned to normal, but something felt different. It was as if this incident had created an invisible bond between him and Ling Yao, one built of money and resources. This bond brought him a sense of security, but it also served as a constant reminder of the unbridgeable chasm between them.
The day before he was discharged from the hospital, Su Rui went home to pack his things and freshen up the room. He pushed open the old wooden door and was surprised to find an exquisite fruit basket and a box of high-end tonics at the door, with no signature card on them.
He was stunned for a moment, his heart beating faster involuntarily. He looked around almost subconsciously, and the narrow and dark corridor was empty.
He silently took the things into the house, closed the door, leaned against the door, and did not move for a long time.
In the air, there seemed to be a faint lingering hint of the refreshing and expensive cedar base.
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