Uma mulher confronta as consequências de um passado turbulento enquanto tenta reconstruir sua vida. O trabalho em um restaurante e a busca por redenção a levam a confrontar decisões dolorosas e a questionar seus motivos para permanecer.
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00:00Reborn, I decided to put my sister's name on the marriage application. This time, I'll make it easy for Henry.
00:07In this life, I beat him to it, dressing my sister in the bridal gown, putting the engagement ring on
00:13my sister's finger. I personally orchestrated every encounter between him and my sister. When he took my sister to the
00:20capital, I unhesitatingly headed south to a university.
00:24All because in my previous life, past middle age, he and our son were still on their knees begging me
00:30for a divorce, to grant him and my sister their final wish. Living again in this life, I only want
00:36to spread my wings and fly high, ignoring love.
00:39Just fill out your name and give it me.
00:41Henry tapped the table impatiently. I stared at the marriage application, my fingertips lightly rubbing against the rough edge of
00:48the paper, my thoughts drifting. In my past life, I had filled in my own name, as solemnly as if
00:54holding a sacred decree.
00:55Then happily dragged Lou Hayoxuan off to buy wedding candy. Only to be harshly scolded by him, because he was
01:02in a hurry to get back, and make brown sugar water for Hazel.
01:07Got it, gotta.
01:08Fencing up at his anxious expression, and the hand that kept checking his watch. Today he wore a white shirt,
01:15sleeves rolled to his elbows, revealing well-defined farms.
01:19If you're busy, go ahead. I'll fill it out and submit it myself.
01:23He visibly relaxed with relief.
01:25Don't worry. Since we're getting married, I'll take responsibility for you. But don't be jealous of Hazel anymore. It'll hurt
01:32a reputation if people find out.
01:34I remained silent. I had explained countless times in my past life, but in his eyes, I was just a
01:40jealous, petty older sister.
01:42He said nothing more and hurriedly turned to leave. I took a deep breath, trying hard to calm my frantic
01:48heartbeat, but the memories of my previous life kept flooding back.
01:52Then, right before his death, our son still tried to persuade me.
01:57Auntie, in any way. Dad has been with you for so many years, you should let go.
02:01I looked at my indifferent husband by the hospital bed. He didn't say a word. That deathly silence was his
02:08tacit agreement.
02:08I bit my lower lip hard until I tasted a hint of blood, before slowly letting go. No, in this
02:15life, I won't repeat the same mistakes.
02:17I picked up the pen and slowly wrote, two characters in the applicant field, Hazel, Henry. Since you love her
02:25so much, have it your way.
02:26I handed the completed application to the clerk, took the marriage certificate, and turned to leave the Civil Affairs Bureau.
02:33I wasn't sad. Instead, I felt an indescribable sense of...
02:38In my past life, after our parents died in the line of duty, Hazel, and I were taken in by
02:43the Liu family.
02:44Hazel, had a sweet tongue and knew, how to win people over, charming Henry, parents, even more than their own
02:51daughter.
02:52His mother had long intended for Hazel, to marry Henry. Hazel, said, I don't want to compete with my sister,
02:59which made Liu Henry, willingly marry me.
03:02In reality, she was just stringing him along, because back then, Henry, was only a company commander, and she was
03:10waiting for someone better.
03:11I went to the school to ask about the preparations needed for university, including tuition and living expenses, before feeling
03:18relieved enough to head back.
03:20Returning to Henry, family quarters, I'd barely entered when I heard Hazel, cock-headish voice,
03:26Zwan, should pick it back to be Sir Faiso and just talk.
03:30I'll be with her any time, but you every month get bad cramps. I can't leave you alone.
03:34Hazel, laughed happily, then put on a forlorn look.
03:38After you marry, she's still good to me.
03:39Course.
03:40Henry, said firmly.
03:42She else would I be good to. Your sister treats you badly, I'll divorce her.
03:45I clenched my fist tightly to hold back the overwhelming sadness.
03:49So even living again, hearing my husband speak so coldly of me still hurt, I composed myself and walked inside
03:56as if nothing was wrong, and came out of shi-
03:59Hazel, room, with an awkward look on his face.
04:02I just checked on Hazel, she wasn't feeling well.
04:04I hummed faintly and turned to go to my room.
04:06In my past life, I fought with him countless times over their inappropriate closeness. This life, I won't waste time
04:13or energy.
04:14Called out to me.
04:15Rose!
04:15Should we buy wedding candies for the military wives?
04:18He's trying to compensate for not arguing. No need. No point in formalities.
04:23He paused, probably finding it hard to imagine that I would refuse such an offer.
04:27Hazel came out of the room, all aggrieved and innocent.
04:31Is sister mad because brother took care of me? I saved for half a year to buy that.
04:36Seeing my gaze, Hazel, I explained nervously.
04:39I thought it looked nice on your bed, tried it on, forgot to take it off.
04:42Rose, don't-
04:43It looks good on you. Keep it. I never wore it anyway.
04:46I could smell the faint scent of blood and sweat on that linen dress.
04:49Under their astonished gazes, I went back to my room and locked the door.
04:53I loved the South in my past life, especially this major.
04:57I gave up school for Henry, stayed home to serve his family.
05:00This life, just in time, I want to live for myself.
05:05Ten more days till I leave. Time is tight, but I must hurry.
05:09A sudden knock at the door made me open it impatiently.
05:12Liu Heoxuan stood there holding a bowl of noodles, his voice gentle.
05:16Hungry? I made you noodles.
05:17For a moment, I was dazed. In my past life, he was either icy cold or vicious with his words.
05:24It had been a long time since I'd seen this tender side of Liu Heoxuan.
05:28No thanks. I ate out.
05:30That can't be. Since when are you willing to spend money?
05:33His words stung. I used to be frugal, saving most of the money I earned from odd jobs to
05:39spend on him, to buy him things. Now I was going to university, and there were so many
05:44expenses. I had to count every penny. I looked up at him.
05:48My voice called.
05:49I gave you 50 yen a few days ago for wedding supplies. You never bought them. Give it back.
05:53He paused, then explained awkwardly.
05:57I used it to buy leather shoes for Hazel.
05:59I couldn't help but smear.
06:01Same old thing. So boring.
06:03If nothing else, I'm going to bed.
06:05I'll pay you back tomorrow.
06:07His tone held a hint of anger.
06:09We're married. Must you be so petty?
06:11I couldn't help but snort.
06:12So I can't even mind you spending my hard-earned money on someone else?
06:16Knowing he was in the wrong, he still stubbornly muttered,
06:18Unreasonable.
06:19I couldn't be bothered to argue further, and slammed the door shut.
06:23Over the next few days, I sold off some worthless belongings, those memory-filled tokens from my past life.
06:29Now, they just seemed like cheap trash.
06:31I packed them all up and sold them cheap to a junk dealer, getting a bit of money in return.
06:36That afternoon, while I continued packing, Henry,
06:39Un stood in front of me, holding 50 yuan, his tone stiff.
06:42Here's your money.
06:43I took the money and nodded.
06:45Thanks.
06:45He looked at me, his gaze complex, then fell on my packed luggage.
06:49I'm taking Hazel to Beijing with me first. Stop packing.
06:52I didn't stop packing, just nodded. He seemed a bit unsettled by my attitude, looking uneasy.
06:56What's wrong with you lately? You're like a different person.
06:59I turned impatiently.
07:01I don't want trouble. Henry doesn't love me, but if he finds out I put Hazel Ein on the form,
07:07he might me make remarry him. I don't want anything to do with this poor.
07:11Nothing much. I'm just getting my things ready.
07:13He sent you leave for the capital. I will move back to the sun side.
07:18It's not that I don't want you to come with me. Hazel has never been to the capital and wants
07:21to see it.
07:22I'll come pick you up in a few months.
07:23I nodded absently. In my past life, he never sent for me for 8 years.
07:27Not until Hazel married a high-ranking military officer in the capital did he, disheartened,
07:32finally bring me there. He seemed uncomfortable with my demeanor.
07:36Usually, whenever we were alone, I would chatter incessantly.
07:39Now that I was being sparing with my words, he seemed restless.
07:42Didn't you always want to take wedding photos? Let's go to the photo studio tomorrow.
07:46No way. I plan to buy some necessities for university tomorrow.
07:50Just as I was about to make an excuse, Hazel came in.
07:54Henry, what photo studio Hazel wants a picture too?
07:57Henry mild and ruffle Hazel's hair.
07:59We'll all go together tomorrow.
08:01You two go ahead. I'm busy tomorrow.
08:04Lu haeoxuan frowned.
08:05What's more important than taking wedding photos?
08:07We're going first. I'll go shopping with you later. Listen to me and be good.
08:12Sister, you're not avoiding me, are you?
08:15Hazel whined.
08:17Fine.
08:19Early morning, I hear Henry begging Hazel to get up in her room.
08:24I'll make it up to you later.
08:26Early the next morning, the bright red numbers on the calendar reminded me, four days left.
08:39Four days and I'm free of this.
08:41Just as I was growing impatient waiting, they finally dawdled out of the room.
08:46Henry felicitously fetched hot water and personally watched Hazel's face.
08:50I was blind to think he'd treat me like this if I married him.
08:53As I was lost in thought, Henry walked up to me awkwardly, holding a ring in his hand.
08:58Sister Jo said married people wear rings. I bought you one.
09:02I didn't take it.
09:04This ring's a never existed in my past life.
09:06Hazel immediately pouted when she saw it.
09:09Pretty. I want one too.
09:11Give it to her then.
09:12Stop it. This is our wedding ring.
09:15Hazel snatched the ring, slipped it onto her own finger, and waved it in front of Henry.
09:22Henry, do I look good?
09:24Henry looked at Hazel. Then he turned to me guiltily and whispered,
09:27I'll... I'll buy you another one next time.
09:31I shrugged indifferently.
09:32I've heard too many of his promises. None kept.
09:36At the photo studio, Hazel way went first, even taking several couple style shots with Henry.
09:43When it was my turn with Henry, the photographer had just raised his camera when he awkwardly lowered it.
09:49Oh dear. Sorry we've run out of film.
09:51I was secretly thrilled, but my face showed nothing.
09:54Oh, well. Forget it then.
09:56Walking out of the studio, Henry pulled a train ticket from his pocket and handed it to me.
10:01It was a standing ticket to the capital.
10:03I didn't mean to leave you. I'll settle in Beijing and wait for you.
10:06Three days and nights to Beijing.
10:09How does he think I can stand?
10:11And there's only one military spouse spot.
10:14Where does he expect me to live?
10:16Asking now won't help.
10:18Seeing me accept the ticket, Lu-hae-oxo invisibly relaxed.
10:22Don't worry. Even if you don't live in the compound, you're my only wife.
10:26I'll treat you hell.
10:28I only see Hazel as a sister.
10:30My expression softened slightly.
10:33When had he ever spoken such soft words before?
10:35Suddenly, a sedan car careened out of a corner, heading straight for us.
10:39In the confusion, someone shoved me.
10:41My eyes fixed on the car heading towards me, but my body was frozen in fear.
10:46The car swerved sharply, hit me.
10:49The pain made my vision go dark, cold sweat pouring down my back.
10:53The driver scrambled out of the car, stammering.
10:57Miss, are you okay?
10:59A crowd slowly gathered, pointing and murmuring.
11:03My gaze cut through the crowd of onlookers and locked firmly on Henry.
11:07He was holding Hazel in his arms to comfort her.
11:10He didn't notice me at all.
11:14Or he did and just didn't care.
11:17A bitter smile tugged at my lips.
11:19And the last trace of hesitation, in my heart faded away completely.
11:22So this was what he meant by, I'll treat you well from now on.
11:25The driver took me to the hospital.
11:27After a full checkup, I was lucky to only have superficial wounds,
11:30and a slight displacement of internal organs.
11:33Lying in the hospital bed, my body etched all over,
11:36yet oddly enough, my heart was calm.
11:38Night fell.
11:38Henry walked in with a tired look on his face.
11:41Seeing I was awake, a flicker of panic crossed his features.
11:44Rose, how are you?
11:45Are you feeling better?
11:46I stared at him coldly and said nothing.
11:48He rubbed his hands nervously and explained awkwardly,
11:51Hazel was too scared.
11:52I stayed with her the whole time, so...
11:54That's why, face with my stare, he trailed off awkwardly.
11:57Rose, it happened so fast.
11:59Hazel was close, I just...
12:01Struggling to find the right words.
12:03I didn't know you'd get hit.
12:05I cut him off.
12:06When are you leaving for Beijing?
12:08Tomorrow.
12:09I see.
12:10I want to rest.
12:12Leave.
12:12I closed my eyes, dismissing him.
12:15Henry tried to say more, but eventually took the hint and left.
12:21The next day, Mother Lou came.
12:23She wore a warm smile.
12:24Rose, Henry sent me to look after you.
12:26Are you feeling better?
12:28Much better, thanks, Mom.
12:31She served me soup while chattering on.
12:34Henry's so clumsy.
12:35Hope he can take care of Hazel.
12:37Mid-sentence, she seemed to realize something and fell silent in embarrassment.
12:41Mom, the one marrying Henry is Hazel.
12:43Mother Lou froze.
12:44Stunned for a long moment before she found her voice.
12:48What?
12:50I put Hazel's name on the application.
12:52Shock washed over her first, then gave way to wild joy.
12:56Rose, you're such a good girl.
12:59Mom knew you're sensible.
13:02Rose, thank you.
13:04Thank you for letting them be together.
13:06I smiled faintly and said nothing.
13:08Let them be together.
13:10Let them?
13:11I'm only setting myself free.
13:12She always wanted Hazel.
13:14Even when I cared for her devotedly, she left everything to Hazel in the end.
13:19Mom, don't tell Henry or Hazel yet.
13:22Sure, sure, Mom understands.
13:25What will you do now?
13:28I'm leaving in a few days.
13:30Do you want...
13:31I didn't reveal my exact destination.
13:33Margaret wanted to ask more, but her mind was full of their wedding.
13:35I closed my eyes and pretended to be asleep.
13:38On the day I was discharged, I didn't notify anyone.
13:41Before leaving, I wrote a letter to Henry.
13:44Henry, when you read this, I'm on a train south.
13:49Between us, it's over.
13:51I wish you happiness.
13:52I put the letter, along with the train ticket to the capital, and the marriage certificate into an envelope, and
13:59sent it to the address in the capital.
14:01Dragging my suitcase, I headed straight for the train station.
14:06Shenzhen's air was humid and warm.
14:08Standing in front of Shenzhen University, I felt a bit dazed.
14:11Walking on campus, I actually felt reborn.
14:15During the day, I sat in the classroom, listening attentively, absorbing knowledge.
14:20At night, I worked at a small restaurant, waiting tables, washing dishes, my back aching.
14:27But this exhaustion felt solid.
14:29A month later, I gradually adapted to this busy yet fulfilling life.
14:33Then I saw Henry downstairs at my dorm.
14:39Rose!
14:39How could you?
14:40Why put Hazel on the form?
14:42Why not come to Beijing?
14:44His voice was full of anger and confusion.
14:47I looked at him coldly.
14:50I don't want a husband who only loves someone else.
14:53It's sick.
14:54It hurts.
14:55You never talked like this before.
14:57I turned my face away.
14:59I didn't want to look at him.
15:00Another second.
15:01Henry, I just want to study and start over.
15:06Hazel is who you always wanted, isn't she?
15:09Cherish each other.
15:11Leave me alone.
15:11I only see Hazel as my sister!
15:15I sneered.
15:15What kind of brother and sister secretly hug and kiss?
15:19Once, I caught him stealing a kiss while Hazel was sleeping.
15:22I could never forget the tenderness in his eyes.
15:25I didn't mean to scare you.
15:27And leave her alone.
15:29She didn't do anything wrong.
15:31It's disgusting, Henry.
15:33Her brother?
15:35Leave me alone.
15:37Just let it go.
15:39His face turned ashen.
15:41But he didn't know what to say.
15:43I remembered when we first arrived at the Lou house as children.
15:46The fear of being dependent made me often afraid to eat my fill.
15:49One night, starving, I snuck into the yard to eat leaves.
15:53Henry saw me.
15:54He shared his snacks with me and comforted me, saying,
15:57Don't be scared, Rose.
15:59I'll protect you.
16:01That warmth at that moment made me fall for him step by step.
16:04So, even though Henry didn't love me initially in my past life,
16:07I was willing to marry him.
16:09For the next few days, Henry still loitered around the school.
16:12I deliberately avoided him, not wanting any further interaction.
16:15But I never expected him to go to the principal to try and get me expelled.
16:19When I was called to Principal Davis' office,
16:22Henry was sitting there stiffly.
16:34Henry, what exactly do you want?
16:39On what grounds do you demand I drop out of school?
16:42He stood up, walked over, and reached for my hand.
16:45I stepped back sharply, avoiding his touch.
16:48I want you to come back with me.
16:50Go back?
16:51Go back and keep watching you dote on Hazel?
16:53His face stiffened, then he snapped angrily.
16:56Rose, don't talk nonsense.
16:59We're still husband and wife.
17:01What do you mean by moving all the way south and keeping us long distance?
17:04I was almost speechless at his shamelessness.
17:06Henry, your legal wife is Hazel.
17:11Her name is on the marriage certificate, and she is the one you truly yearn for.
17:15His face turned purple with rage, and he ground his teeth.
17:18That was a mistake!
17:20Mistakes must be corrected!
17:22My past behavior misled you.
17:23I won't do that again.
17:24My heart turned cold.
17:26I'd heard this line before, in my past life.
17:29And he'd still ended up all lovy de vee with Hazel.
17:32I turned to Principal Davis, speaking earnestly.
17:35Principal Davis, I truly wish to continue my studies here.
17:38Please don't make me drop out.
17:40Principal Davis looked at me, then at Henry, thought for a moment, and said,
17:44Since you have no legal ties with student Rose, you can process her school withdrawal.
17:48I sighed with relief.
17:49Henry tried to say something else, but Principal Davis cut him off.
17:54If you have no other business, please leave.
17:56I still have work to handle.
18:01After that, Henry kept pestering me constantly.
18:04I was disturbed all the time, and my study efficiency dropped a lot.
18:07What gave me even more of a headache was that Hazel also showed up.
18:12Divorce me, brother frisk me.
18:14I don't want to stole you from my sister.
18:17I'm such a baggerid.
18:20I'm sorry, sister.
18:21She tugged at Henry's sleeve, sobbing uncontrollably.
18:25Henry, pained, pulled her into his arms and gently patted her back.
18:29Can't cry with...
18:30This is not your fault.
18:33It's all my fault for wronging you.
18:36Hazel cried pitifully, making as if to kneel before me.
18:40Don't kneel.
18:41It's all my fault.
18:42His wrist the bagger.
18:43I got her my trust is...
18:45More and more students gathered around, pointing and whispering.
18:48I couldn't be bothered to watch the farce any longer.
18:51I turned and left.
18:53If they want to act, let them.
18:55I'm not playing along anymore, a day.
18:57I threw myself back into my studies, joined the university's math club, and met Ethan
19:03Green.
19:04He was tall and slim, wore black-rimmed glasses, and had a sunny smile.
19:09He was great at math and often tutored me.
19:11As time went on, we got to know each other.
19:14Just when I thought my life was finally on track, Henry's letters arrived, one after
19:20another, relentless.
19:22Rose, are you still mad at me?
19:24I know I was wrong.
19:26Please come back.
19:27Rose, Hazel is pregnant.
19:29The baby is mine.
19:31Rose, isn't your sulking lasting a bit long?
19:33What do you want me to do for you to forgive me?
19:36I tore his letters to shreds and threw them in the trash.
19:39I don't know, what makes him think I'd change my mind now?
19:43Thick skin, probably.
19:45The restaurant where I worked part-time smelled of cooking oil.
19:48I was busily cleaning tables.
19:50I looked up and saw Ethan sitting in a corner.
19:53He gave me a small smile.
19:55I avoided his gaze and continued working.
19:58When my shift ended, he was still sitting there.
20:01Let's grab something to eat.
20:02He pointed to the seat across from him.
20:04No thanks, I've already eaten.
20:06I declined, but my stomach chose that moment to let out an embarrassing rumble.
20:10He chuckled softly.
20:13There's no need to be shy.
20:14Take a seat.
20:16I ate with my head down, completely forgetting my manners.
20:19Slow down, no one is rushing you.
20:21Halfway through my meal, I felt a tickle on my nose.
20:24Looking up, I saw Ethan smiling at me, holding a grain of rice between his fingers.
20:30Is your face also hungry for food?
20:31He teased.
20:32My face flushed bright red, and I looked down in embarrassment.
20:36I knew he liked me.
20:37His eyes didn't hide it.
20:38But right now, I just wanted to focus on my studies.
20:42Everything else could wait.
20:44Winter break arrived.
20:45Margaret Luss phone calls came one after another, urging me to come home for the new year.
20:50After all, they had raised me.
20:52I couldn't be completely heartless.
20:54After much thought, I bought a ticket, packed gifts, and returned to Sean City.
21:00I'd barely stepped through the Lou family's front gate, when I heard Sharp yelling.
21:04Henry, what do you mean?
21:06I'm carrying your child.
21:08I won't be treated like this.
21:09I was stunned.
21:11Hazel, heavily pregnant, was screaming at Henry.
21:14Henry's face was ashen, but he didn't dare talk back.
21:18How could you do this to me?
21:20Henry carefully helped Hazel sit down.
21:22It's embarrassing you're still only a company commander.
21:25Did you spend money on my sister?
21:26Henry's face changed.
21:28Don't talk nonsense.
21:29I have nothing to do with her anymore.
21:31Don't think I don't know you keep writing to her secretly.
21:34You don't have me in your heart at all.
21:36Hazel wailed, beating her fists against Henry's chest.
21:39Henry looked very impatient.
21:41It's so smart.
21:43How did you not have called you?
21:44I didn't.
21:45I stood at the door, watching the scene before me.
21:49It was absurd and laughable.
21:51In the end, he was just someone who wanted what he didn't have, fundamentally unfaithful.
21:56Margaret Lou was the first to notice me.
21:59She took my hand, her tone a bit ingratiating.
22:02I pulled my hand back and said calmly,
22:04I'm tired.
22:05I want to go back to my room to rest.
22:07Margaret's expression froze for a second.
22:09But she didn't say anything else, just turned back to coaxing Hazel in a low voice.
22:13A far cry from the overbearing mother-in-law I remembered from my past life.
22:18Back in my room, I pulled out a New Year's gift from Ethan from my luggage, a red cashmere scarf.
22:24I wrapped the scarf around my neck, looked at myself in the mirror, and felt the corners of my mouth
22:30lift involuntarily.
22:31That evening, there was a knock at my door.
22:33I opened it to find Henry standing there, looking haggard and uneasy.
22:39Ranren, I need to talk to you.
22:41He rubbed his hands together, gathering his courage.
22:45You've always been the one I want to marry.
22:47I've always been waiting for you.
22:50Hazel.
22:50Temper is getting worse, and she spends money recklessly.
22:55Do you even believe what you're saying?
22:58You waited for me while getting Hazel pregnant?
23:01What do you take me for?
23:03His face flushed red, panic filling his eyes.
23:06There's nothing to explain.
23:08You have a child with Hazel now.
23:10There's nothing more to talk about.
23:12Wish you two a long, happy life.
23:15He was silent for a few seconds, as if remembering something.
23:18I've been having dreams lately.
23:20Dreams of marrying you.
23:22He paused.
23:22You were gentle.
23:23A hint of pain in his voice.
23:25You were gentle and virtuous, taking care of my parents at home.
23:28But in the dream, I only had eyes for Hazel, neglected and hurt you.
23:32I'm a total bastard.
23:33I even forced you to divorce me for our son's sake.
23:36I was surprised.
23:37He was dreaming about our past life.
23:40He covered his face painfully.
23:42I'm sorry for the you in the dream.
23:45I want to make amends.
23:47I suppress my raging anger.
23:49My voice I see.
23:51If you really want to make amends, live a good life with Hazel.
23:56Don't come near me again.
23:58It's better for both of us.
23:59His eyes dimmed.
24:00A hint of reluctance in his voice.
24:02But I still think you should be my wife.
24:03My patience finally ran out.
24:05I directly showed him the door.
24:06Henry, you should leave.
24:08This is not your place.
24:09He stood up dejectedly, and walked heavily out of my room.
24:12I washed his back, not a ripple of emotion in my heart.
24:14Past life or present life, he always wavers between two women, greedy for everything.
24:21Since Henry and Hazel are staying here, I have no reason to remain.
24:26The Lou family was never my home.
24:28The next morning, I packed my bags and knocked on Margaret's door.
24:32I slipped a bank card into her hand and said calmly,
24:37Auntie, thank you for raising me all these years.
24:39The money in this card is my savings, as repayment for your upbracing.
24:43I can't take this.
24:45Please take it.
24:46I picked up my luggage.
24:47I have school matters to attend.
24:49I'm leaving now.
24:50With that, I left the Lou house, without looking back.
24:53Not a trace of regret.
24:58The ticket window line was long.
25:00By the time it was my turn, tickets to Shenzhen were sold out.
25:04The next available ticket is two days later.
25:06I ran my hands through my hair in frustration.
25:09Where can I stay now?
25:10I can't sleep on the street.
25:12Just as I was at my wit's end, Ethan appeared in front of me, carrying several large bags.
25:19His face lit up with a surprise smile, and he walked over quickly.
25:24I was also a bit surprised, smiling as I greeted him.
25:27Rose?
25:28Ethan, you're from Shown City too.
25:31Yeah.
25:33And you?
25:35You don't have anywhere to stay.
25:38Why don't you come to my house for the new year?
25:41I was taken aback and quickly waved my hands.
25:47I couldn't possibly impose, oh?
25:50Don't be silly, he laughed.
25:53It's just my grandmother and me at home.
25:55It's quite lonely.
25:57Having you there would liven things up.
26:00He paused, then added.
26:05Please, Rose.
26:06Just think of it as keeping my poor grandmother company.
26:10His pitiful expression made me laugh despite myself.
26:13Unable to refuse his sincerity, I finally agreed.
26:16Walking out of the station, a cold wind blew.
26:20Seeing this, Ethan immediately took off his own coat, and draped it over my shoulders.
26:25Shown City is much colder than Shenzhen.
26:27I shook my head, but a wave of warmth surged in my heart.
26:33Ethan's home was in the old district of S-City, a charming two-story building from a bygone era.
26:38A silver-haired old lady stood at the kitchen door, watching us with a beaming smile.
26:42Hello, Ethan.
26:44Ethan, who is this young lady?
26:47Her gaze fell on me, and she said happily,
26:51Oh, you brought such a beautiful girl home.
26:57I shyly lowered my head.
26:59Grandma, this is Rose.
27:00She's my friend.
27:01Oh, hello, dear.
27:03Come on in.
27:04Get warm.
27:06Eleanor busied herself cooking dumplings while he...
27:08Let me take that for you.
27:09...then helped carry my suitcase to the guest room.
27:11The room wasn't big, but it was clean and tidy.
27:14The bedding smelled of sunshine.
27:18Have a rest.
27:19Dumplings will be ready soon.
27:20Ethan said gently.
27:22I nodded, sat on the edge of the bed, and watched the snowflakes fall outside the window.
27:26For the first time, I feel the warmth of home.
27:29That evening, we sat around the dining table, eating steaming hot dumplings.
27:34Eleanor kept piling food onto my plate.
27:38You can come any time.
27:40My door is always open for you.
27:43I smiled and nodded, my heart feeling warm.
27:46After eating, Ethan suggested a walk in the nearby park.
27:50The winter park was nearly empty, except for a few couples huddled together, enjoying the rare quiet.
27:57We walked slowly along the lake, neither of us speaking.
28:01Snowflakes drifted down gently, landing on us like a thin, soft veil.
28:06Thank you, Ethan.
28:07I broke the silence, whispering.
28:10So what?
28:11Thank you for taking me and giving me a one-seven.
28:14Ethan looked at me, a teasing smile playing on his lips.
28:17How about repaying you with your hand in marriage?
28:20I was startled for a second, then pretended to snort haughtily.
28:24In your dreams.
28:25Despite my words, a tiny ripple stirred in my heart.
28:29So, tell me, how will you repay me?
28:32I did rescue you from the dire straits at the station, Afro.
28:36I laughed at his exaggerated tone, deliberately frowning.
28:40A hero?
28:41More like trying to blackmail me.
28:43I think.
28:44I think.