On the Thousand Postures Reconstructed by the Scumbags

A1 C14: He Hesitates, Fearing a Sudden Change of Heart

As evening approached, the rain that had persisted throughout the day finally let up a bit. However, puddles were everywhere on the road. Lu Xingzhe glanced around before fixing his gaze on Xi Nian. "Let's find a place to talk."

Sensitive about his identity and not wanting to be recognized, Xi Nian suggested, "There's a café across the street."

Lu Xingzhe tilted his head slightly. The shadow of his cap shifted slightly, revealing his crimson lips and pointed chin. His white casual shirt hung loosely on him, highlighting his slim shoulders. "What's good to drink at the café? Since we're already under your building, why not lead the way?"

His tone was casual, even somewhat presumptuous.

Xi Nian declined, "I refuse."

Lu Xingzhe, acting like a brat, patted his bandaged leg, a hint of a smirk on his lips. "What now? My leg hurts, I can't walk. If you carry me to the café, I wouldn't mind."

Unmoved, Xi Nian responded with a hint of sarcasm, "Why didn't you complain about your leg when you were following me?"

Lu Xingzhe retorted, "It's different sitting in a car. All you need to do is tap the brake and accelerator. Walking is a different story; it strains the muscles and bones."

He crossed his arms, looking defiant, making one want to pin him down and give him a beating. Xi Nian remained silent for a few seconds before turning around and walking towards his home without a word.

Lu Xingzhe smirked, then glanced around under his lowered cap to make sure no suspicious people were trying to photograph them. After confirming, he limped to catch up.

Xi Nian intentionally walked fast, even taking a few detours. By the time they reached the elevator, he finally looked back, seeing Lu Xingzhe trailing a few steps behind.

The elevator was still descending slowly.

Lu Xingzhe limped up to him, leaning against the wall. Perhaps due to his brisk walking, his breath was slightly heavy. He sighed and then smiled at Xi Nian, "You deliberately took a detour."

Seeing Lu Xingzhe admitting defeat for once, Xi Nian retorted, "So what if I did?"

Lu Xingzhe usually wore a sly smile, rarely showing genuine anger. But behind the scenes, he was ruthless. "Nothing much. I've never lost anyone I've followed."

The elevator 'dinged,' opening to an empty space. Xi Nian stepped in and pressed a button, casually asking, "So, are you a paparazzi?"

Only then did Lu Xingzhe realize he hadn't even introduced himself properly or revealed his identity. After a rare moment of silence, he replied nonchalantly, "If you say so."

He was well aware of his tarnished reputation and chose not to answer directly.

Xi Nian was very protective of his personal space and rarely let anyone into his home. As he unlocked his door, he hesitated for a moment, feeling like he might be inviting trouble, but decided against saying anything.

Xi Nian's place was modest, just enough for living. Lu Xingzhe glanced around, finding the decor sparse. He looked at the sofa and asked, "Mind if I sit?"

Opening the fridge, Xi Nian took out two bottles of drinks, "If I did, would you stand?"

Supporting his injured leg, Lu Xingzhe sat on the sofa, "Of course not."

Xi Nian placed a can of lemon tea in front of him, keeping his distance, "So, what business do you want to discuss?"

Lu Xingzhe tilted his head, scrutinizing Xi Nian, fingers lightly touching his temple. The overhead light cast a mysterious shadow over him. Suddenly becoming serious, he said, "You've offended quite a few people recently."