Batter My Heart,Mr Xi (Book 2)

Chapter XXVI

Early update.

When she returned to her desk, Sister Xin asked, concern etched on her face "What happened?"

"Director Mao said, I have to release an apology video," Zhilan said, trying to sound casual.

"Why? If the Best Actor is your friend, why should you apologize for hugging him?" A coworker who was listening protested.

"It's fine," Zhilan reassured them."It's just a temporary measure and if I don't do it, I will be fired."

"But it's not fair!", another colleague exclaimed, crossing her arms. "You did nothing wrong."

Zhilan took a deep breath, feeling a bit of annoyance at the situation.

As they continued to voice their concerns, she couldn't help but think about how lucky she was to have such supportive colleagues.

Except....

"Wu Shanshan?" She called out next to her.

" Huh?" Wu Shanshan looked a little shocked that she was calling her. " Yes?"

" Can we have dinner tonight? I really need to talk to you. "

" I don't think this is a good idea Yang Zhilan. Maybe we can reschedule it for..."

''Shanshan...'' Yang Zhilan interjected with a saddened face.

"Zhilan...I have plans tonight. How about we reschedule for later okay?" Wu Shanshan didn't wait for her response and turned away to her computer.

Yang Zhilan frowned at her response. She still could not figure out what she had done wrong. The moment she found out that Mr Xi was her boyfriend, they had grown distant. Perhaps, she should just give up on their friendship. If this little thing was enough to make her like this then...

" Ok, later then." Yang Zhilan turned to her computer. She had to get to the bottom of this She saw the messages popping up on her phone and decided to mute it completely.

After working hours were over, Yang Zhilan stood outside the doors of Xi Jinwei's office. Taking a deep breath, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.

Mr. Qin, Xi was organizing some files at the edge of the large mahogany desk. He glanced up, his expression neutral, as she entered.

"Mr. Qin."Xi Jinwei said, his voice warm but firm. "Could you give us a moment?"

Mr. Qin's gaze flickered briefly to Zhilan before he nodded and exited the room, closing the door quietly behind him. The atmosphere shifted, and Zhilan felt an immediate sense of relief wash over her.

"Are you okay?" Xi Jinwei asked, concern etched in his features as he leaned forward in his chair. She could see the tension in his posture.

Without answering, Zhilan moved to him, sinking onto his lap. The familiar scent of lavender enveloped her, calming her racing heart. She buried her face in his shoulder, inhaling deeply, the fragrance a soothing balm to her frayed nerves.

She murmured finally, "I have tried not to think about it, but..." Her words trailed off as she clenched his jacket, not caring if she crumpled the fabric.

Xi Jinwei wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer. His fingers gently ran through her hair, a comforting rhythm that made her feel safe. "You're not alone in this,'' he said softly, his voice steady. "We'll get through it together."

A small laugh escaped her, a mix of disbelief and gratitude. "It was just a hug, Weiwei. Why is it such a big deal?"

He chuckled lightly, the sound warm and reassuring. "Because people love a good scandal, and you're too wonderful to ignore."
He paused, his tone shifting to playful. "Besides, who wouldn't want to hug the Best Actor in town?"