Mute Beauty

Chapter 46

Sensing a bit of teasing from her, Ran Ling wondered, was Tingting still mad?

When Ran Ling looked in the mirror after waking up, she noticed her lips were swollen from the intensity of their kiss. So domineering. Does this mean she's forgiven?

With that thought, Ran Ling scooped a piece of meat and held it out to her, supporting the bowl with her other hand. Yu Ting leaned forward and ate the entire piece, her gesture so intimate yet with a polite smile. "It's delicious, thank you."

What's with this politeness? It was clear she was still pouting. Ran Ling was stumped.

They took their time with breakfast, dragging it out for over half an hour. Before they knew it, it was past eleven. With the strong sunlight making everyone feel lazy, neither had plans to go out. There were plenty of things they could do at home together, and as it happened, both Yu Ting and Ran Ling loved watching movies.

Yu Ting casually picked an old classic and lounged on the sofa, engrossed in the film without asking if Ran Ling wanted to join. But Ran Ling was already by her side, ready to watch.

On the coffee table, Auntie Song had set out a platter of fruit—strawberries, grapes, mangoes—all favorites of Yu Ting's. As she watched intently, she'd occasionally forget to eat, prompting Ran Ling to feed her with a fork, peeling grapes and picking out watermelon seeds as if she were trying to soothe her.

Yu Ting didn't mind.

Halfway through the movie, Yu Ting received a call from her friend Cora, who was hosting a beach party for her birthday and wanted both Yu Ting and Ran Ling to join.

Yu Ting had a good relationship with Cora, who had been at her last birthday celebration and even given a generous gift. Yu Ting didn't refuse but didn't confirm that she'd bring Ran Ling either.

"A friend's birthday party—she asked me to bring you along. Interested, Ling?" Yu Ting turned slightly, seemingly asking casually. This was the second time she had addressed Ran Ling since that earlier "Good morning."

Still hoping to smooth things over with Tingting, Ran Ling interpreted the invitation as genuine and nodded quickly.

Of course.

Yu Ting, anticipating her agreement, stood up. "Alright, I'll let her know. I'll go change; shall we leave soon?"

Leaving right away?

Ran Ling suddenly felt nervous, still dressed in her nightgown. She hurried upstairs to pick an outfit and put on some makeup. Realizing she hadn't brought a gift, she remembered that Yu Ting always had a stash of unopened presents meant for just such occasions. Yu Ting suggested they simply bring one of those.

After getting ready, they set off with the gift, and Ran Ling, seated in the passenger seat, grew nervous about meeting Yu Ting's friends. The party would be lively and crowded, a setting she wasn't accustomed to. Her health had often kept her from social gatherings, and she tended to prefer her own company.

She worried she might dampen the mood or make a misstep. Sensing her unease, Yu Ting said, "Don't worry. She's really nice—she was even at our wedding, if you remember. You'll see."

Ran Ling glanced at Yu Ting, who was focused on the road with her sunglasses on, reminding her of their wedding days. It had been just as bustling with friends, and Yu Ting had been so considerate, handling everything with ease so Ran Ling could enjoy herself without worry.

Even now, although there was still some tension, Yu Ting's words seemed reassuring, as if saying, I'll take care of everything; there's no need to worry.