𝖂𝖍𝖎𝖘𝖕𝖊𝖗𝖘 𝕺𝖋 𝕷𝖔𝖛𝖊 (ZhanYi)

Glistering Island.

Zhan's Pov.

I couldn't help but ask my grandpa, "Why did you follow him?"

His eyes glazed over with a distant look as memories flooded back. He took a deep breath, and with a hint of nostalgia in his voice, he recounted the story of his youth.

"I fell in love and lost my chance after your grandmother passed away," he said softly. "I don't want you to experience the same feeling of regret. That's why I followed him—I wanted to make sure you never experienced that kind of pain."

"I know the resort owner," he said with a smile. "He's an old friend of mine; you can go there whenever you want. It's just 10 minutes from the house."

My grandpa's words touched me so deeply that I couldn't help but smile. I was so happy to know he cared so much for me. He wanted to make sure I never experienced the same pain he endured in his youth. I started feeling giddy at the thought of visiting the resort anytime I wanted, just 10 minutes from the house.

Welcome to Glistering Island! My grandfather said as we parked his car in the compound.

I looked around and noticed how different the houses here were. Unlike our estate, which resembled a military base with its fences and gates, the houses on Glistering Island had open compounds adorned with beautiful flowers. It was a refreshing sight, and the atmosphere felt inviting.

The absence of fences and gates gave the island a sense of openness and freedom. It was as if the community trusted each other enough to live without barriers. The vibrant colors of the flowers added natural beauty to the surroundings, creating a serene and peaceful ambiance. The absence of rigid structures that typically define residential areas made Glistering Island feel like a place where people could truly connect with nature and each other.

Grandpa graciously carried my bag inside, and I quietly walked behind him, taking in the surroundings. As soon as I entered, I was in awe. The place looked impeccably clean and exuded a cozy atmosphere. The walls were adorned with beautiful pictures of my mom when she was young, posing happily with her parents. It was heartwarming to see these cherished memories preserved and displayed.

This was my first visit. I hardly leave the house thanks to my overprotective mother and grandma.

My grandpa opened a door, allowing me to enter a room I recognized instantly. Without his guidance, I didn't need him to tell me it was my mom's room. It was like she had described it to me before. The room exuded warmth and familiarity with its soft color palette and carefully arranged furniture. The bed was neatly made and adorned with my mom's favorite quilt, while her cherished photographs adorned the walls. The room felt like a sanctuary, a place where my mom's essence was captured and preserved.

My grandpa's phone started ringing, and we both knew who was calling. He quickly answered his phone, his voice full of warmth and love. It was my mom calling to check in with us and see how I was doing. We talked for a few minutes before my grandpa hung up, and I could tell he was happy to hear her voice. He smiled at me, a sign of understanding and reassurance. I knew everything was okay, and he spoilt me like my grandma.

Get some rest; we'll hang out at the resort later. He patted my shoulder and left.

I smiled and climbed onto the bed, feeling my body sink in. The soft sheets were a welcome relief after a long day. I closed my eyes and drifted off.

I groggily opened my eyes and saw my grandfather standing in the doorway. He smiled at me and said, "Time to get ready for the resort, my boy." He dropped a pile of clothes on my bed and gestured for me to get up. I stretched and stood up, my joints popping in protest. I reluctantly headed to the shower.

I stepped out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around my waist. I wanted to run back inside and hide, but I reminded myself that my grandfather already knew I was a boy.

"I got you some clothes while you slept," he said. "I thought you would need them." I smiled and thanked him. I quickly got dressed, and we headed off to the resort.

"Welcome to The Playful Paradise," the sign read as we neared the gate. I probably missed it earlier, thinking of that cute guy.

Grandpa looked smart and distinguished in his black suit and crisp white shirt, with his gray hair neatly combed back. He carried himself with confident grace, and I could feel the admiration radiating from the people around us as we walked.

"Tian Ping, a voice called my grandpa as we entered a private lounge."

The lounge was tastefully decorated with plush furniture and soft lighting, exuding elegance and sophistication. It was clear that this was a place meant for relaxation and comfort.

Chen Zan, my grandpa, called back. They hugged each other before Mr. Chen looked at me and smiled.

"Is this your grandson, Tian Ping?" he asked proudly.

Yes, my grandpa smiled brightly as he looked at me with love and pride in his eyes.

"Yang, take him to the game lounge," Mr. Chen said to a hefty guy standing beside him.

My grandpa passed me his credit card and shooed me away, telling me to enjoy myself. I thanked him and followed Yang to the game lounge.

Many people were sitting in a circle in the game lounge.

"Come to the private lounge when you're done," Yang said, walking out.

"Come sit with us," someone said, and they created space for me to sit. I walked over and took a seat in the circle, feeling quite overwhelmed by the number of people around me.

Suddenly, someone shouted, "It's game time!" and the group cheered.

"What game are we playing?" I asked the guy beside me.

"Truth or dare?" he asked.

"Okay, I guess I'll stick with the truth since I can't drink alcohol," I said, trying to hide my nervousness. I had never played the game before, and I was anxious about the rules.

As I glanced around the lounge, my eyes searched for any sign of his presence. I eagerly anticipated catching a glimpse of him, hoping to quell the curiosity that had gripped me. However, to my disappointment, he was nowhere to be found.

Suddenly, a loud thump knocked me out of my thoughts. I watched as the bottle spun on the floor, slowly stopping in front of me. I looked up.

"Truth or dare?" he asked.

Truth. I said.

According to the rules of this game, I had to answer three questions truthfully and pick two dares. If I failed to answer a question or complete a dare, I would drink.

What was the last lie you told yourself? He asked.

I lowered my eyes. "I told my grandpa that a guy I met at the airport was my boyfriend."

Aww, everyone shouted in unison as they watched me Squirm in embarrassment