Mute Beauty

Chapter 1: Hear

Yun City, between spring and summer.

The tavern Hear is nestled in a quiet corner beneath the bustling heart of Cloud City. It's not large, but it has a unique charm. Its illuminated sign quietly hangs in front, glowing softly in the still of the night, mysterious and alluring—like an inn for those who can't find their way into dreams. The owner of Hear is Yu Ting.

Yu Ting, known for her beauty and charm, is a laid-back proprietor who often disappears, making it rare to see her in person.

But tonight, she's here.

Yu Ting enjoys lively atmospheres, so the booths are filled with people—both familiar faces and strangers. In this kind of ambiance, everyone blends together, whether they know each other or not. The place feels comfortable, leisurely, and relaxed, with some people stealing glances filled with purpose, while others drown their sorrows in drink. But no matter how much Yu Ting drinks, she never gets drunk, and her face never flushes. She often sits with her legs crossed, leaning back, lazily and warmly observing everything around her.

Yu Ting is into women. She's had many relationships, all with women. Tonight, the patrons are all women too—some from her usual circles, others drawn by her reputation.

So, this place? It's a lesbian bar.

"Ah Ting, can I call you that?"

"Or should I call you Sister Yu? You seem about five years older than me, so 'Sister' sounds nicer, fits the vibe between us..." A girl named Xiao Yi, slightly drunk, somehow squeezed next to Yu Ting, murmuring pitifully as she leaned closer to her.

"What vibe between us?" Yu Ting asked.

From the start, Xiao Yi had been sneaking glances at Yu Ting, and with the liquid courage in her, she boldly blurted out, "The...vibe...calling you 'Sister' feels more... intimate."

Yu Ting smiled gently, her eyes soft as she let the girl lean against her, occasionally patting her warm shoulder as if to soothe her. "Have we met before?"

"Of course," Xiao Yi replied. "I saw you at Shiyi's birthday party. We have lots of mutual friends."

Yu Ting raised an eyebrow. "Shiyi is my ex-girlfriend."

"I know! But you broke up ages ago, right? I heard she even has a new girlfriend now!"

Yu Ting smiled and nodded. "Yeah, she does."

Ever considerate, Yu Ting asked, "Why'd you drink so much tonight? Something on your mind?"

"No... Just... trying to build some courage."

"Oh?"

"Do you like..."

"Like what?"

Just then, Yu Ting cut her off and waved over a waitress, Xiao Wei. "Come here for a moment."

Xiao Wei rushed over, bowing slightly. "Sister Yu, what's up?"

Yu Ting pointed to a nearby table. "Check on that table."

Xiao Wei turned and saw a woman in a spaghetti-strap dress holding a drink, while a girl with dreadlocks, dressed in a more androgynous style, seemed overly friendly, pushing for her number. The woman looked uncomfortable, clearly out of her element in this kind of place.

Xiao Wei quickly got the hint. "On it," she said, striding over. "Excuse me..."

Yu Ting could only see the woman in the dress from the side—a soft profile with just the right blend of sharpness and elegance. Her smooth, straight black hair cascaded almost to her waist, and her pale, delicate skin caught the soft light. Even from a distance, Yu Ting could feel her gentle, warm presence.