In Love With An Idiot
Chapter 2
Jian Suiying had twisted his ankle, so he couldn't be bothered going to work. He stayed home and rested for two days.
He was sprawled on the sofa watching a film when Jian Suilin rang. Jian Suiying glanced at the caller ID and immediately silenced the phone. He couldn't be bothered answering. But Jian Suilin wouldn't give up and kept calling until Jian Suiying, thoroughly irritated, finally picked up.
“What?” he asked lazily.
“Brother, I heard from Li Yu that you hurt your foot.”
“Mm. Twisted it.”
“Is it any better now? How are you managing to eat?”
“What, do you think I'm going to starve myself to death?”
“Is anyone looking after you?”
“I've twisted my ankle, not been paralysed from the waist down. Why would I need someone looking after me?” Having missed several scenes of his film, Jian Suiying said impatiently, “I'm hanging up.”
“Wait, Brother!”
“What now?”
“Have you put any medicine on it? Massaged it yourself? If you don't treat it, it'll take at least a fortnight to heal.”
“What's with all the fuss? It'll be fine in a few days.”
“Why don't I bring some medicine over? People on our football team get injured all the time. I know how to treat it.”
It wasn't often Jian Suiying took a few days off. He was perfectly happy relaxing at home, enjoying the freedom of having the place to himself. The last thing he wanted was to see Jian Suilin, so he refused outright.
“No need. Don't go making a fuss over nothing.”
“Our teacher told us not to revise for the next few days. I'm only sitting around at home anyway, so let me come and see you.”
“I said there's no need.”
“Brother…”
“Do you have to be so bloody annoying? That's what gets on my nerves most about you. All that fussing and nagging.”
Jian Suilin immediately swallowed the words on the tip of his tongue.
Jian Suiying said offhandedly, “Do well in your exams tomorrow. Don't disgrace the Jian family.” Then he hung up and went back to his snacks and film.
In truth, his ankle had almost healed. How serious could a little twist be? He had merely wanted an excuse to slack off. He'd been in quite a good mood until Jian Suilin's phone call, which had thoroughly soured it. That brat Li Yu had injured his ankle. Surely he ought to have checked on him personally? What was he doing getting Jian Suilin to call instead? Of course Jian Suiying was going to take offence.
He fished his phone out from between the sofa cushions and called Jian Suilin back.
The call was answered almost at once. “Brother?”
“Mm.”
“Brother, do you… do you want me to come over?”
“No. I fancy some spicy crayfish.”
“Shall I get some takeaway and bring it over?”
“I don't want to eat at home. Come over and pick me up. Let's go to Guijie.”
“All right. I'll be there straight away.”
“Oh, and bring Li Yu.”
“Huh… bring Li Yu?”
“Yes, bring him.”
Jian Suilin fell silent for a moment before asking hesitantly, “Why?”
For a moment Jian Suiying was stumped. Then he declared with complete confidence, “He's Old Mr Li's grandson. It can't hurt to keep in touch with him, can it? Besides, you two get on well, and I've been wanting his brother to help me get hold of a plot of land.”
“Oh. I don't know his brother very well. I've only met him a few times.”
“Neither do I. It'd be good to get to know him through Li Yu. Just invite him out. We'll all have a meal together.”
“All right.”
Only a few minutes after Jian Suiying hung up, his phone rang again. The caller ID showed Jian Suilin once more.
“What else is it?”
“Suiying.” His father's voice came down the line.
“Dad?”
“Suilin's coming over to see you, is he?”
“Yeah.”
“I've told him to bring all his things. He can stay at your place tonight.”
Jian Suiying was instantly displeased. “What's he staying here for?”
“You live in the city, closer to where he's taking his exams.”
“Didn't he tell you I twisted my ankle? I can't drive.”
“I know. Even taking a taxi from your place will be quicker than coming all the way from home.”
“Dad, I haven't got anywhere for him to sleep.”
His father clicked his tongue. “Why do you have to make such a fuss over letting your younger brother stay one night?”
Jian Suiying rolled his eyes.
His father continued in an earnest tone, “Suiying, you're both grown up now. Whatever else he may be, he's your brother. When we're all dead and gone, your brothers will be the only family you can rely on. Do you understand?”
From the beginning, his father had always wanted the brothers to get along and had tried every possible way to get them to spend time together. It was all completely useless. Jian Suiying wanted to ask whether his father understood something himself: from the moment he had failed to keep his trousers on and let that woman worm her way into their family, driving his mother to such a state, Jian Suiying had lost any possibility of having an ordinary brotherly relationship with Jian Suilin. Not in this lifetime.
The fact that he could now speak calmly to Jian Suilin was proof of his generosity.
“Fine, fine,” Jian Suiying said indolently. “He can stay if he wants.”
Only then did his father give a satisfied hum. He was about to hang up when Jian Suiying called out, “Oh, Dad.”
“What?”
“Tell Suilin to invite Old Mr Li's grandson as well. I've got plenty of room here. I might as well send them both off tomorrow.”
“Will his family let him stay?”
“Just ask. His father and older brother both hold real power. You never know when their help might come in handy. It can't hurt to have a good relationship with them.”
“All right. I'll ask Suilin to find out.”
After hanging up, Jian Suiying found himself looking forward to the possibility of Li Yu staying over. Otherwise, the whole evening would be utterly pointless.
He waited at home for more than an hour, long enough to doze off on the sofa, before the doorbell finally rang.
Sure enough, Jian Suilin had brought Li Yu with him. Jian Suiying's mood improved instantly.
As soon as Jian Suilin came in, he looked at his older brother with concern. “Brother, how's your ankle? Let me have a look.”
“No need. It's fine now. What's the point of you looking at it? You're not a doctor.”
“Let me see. I brought some medicated oil. I'll massage it for you.”
“No, no. Come on, come in and sit down.” The polite invitation at the end was clearly intended for Li Yu.
Li Yu made a token enquiry as well. “Brother Jian, how's your ankle?”
“Nothing serious.”
Jian Suilin helped him sit down and insisted on examining his foot. Jian Suiying refused at first, then thought that the sight of his ankle, swollen to the size of a steamed bun, might stir up a little guilt in Li Yu. There was no harm in letting him see it. He generously lifted his foot onto the sofa.
Jian Suilin rolled up his trouser leg and frowned at the sight. “Brother, have you been to the hospital?”
“No. Why would I go to hospital? It'll be fine in a few days.”
“You can't just leave it like this. If you don't treat it properly, you won't be able to walk for ages.” He took a bottle of oil out of his bag. “I'll massage it for you. It might hurt a bit, so bear with me.”
Before Jian Suiying could object, Jian Suilin had unscrewed the cap and poured a generous puddle onto his foot. It was too late to say anything now.
Jian Suilin carefully rested his foot on his own thigh, took hold of his ankle and began massaging it, gradually increasing the pressure.
Li Yu sat beside them, watching with a displeased expression. His body felt stiff, and no matter how he sat, he couldn't get comfortable. He didn't understand why Suilin was so good to this brother of his, to the point of practically trying to curry favour with him.
He had always known how Jian Suiying treated Jian Suilin. The grievances of the previous generation weren't Jian Suilin's fault, yet Jian Suiying had taken all his anger out on him ever since they were children. Li Yu had long harboured a poor opinion of Jian Suiying. What infuriated him most was that, at some point, Jian Suilin had begun saying things like, ‘My brother's actually quite good to me,’ before going straight back to fawning over someone who gave him nothing but contempt in return.
Every time he watched Jian Suiying order Jian Suilin about with that arrogant air of his, he felt it was terribly unfair to Suilin.
Jian Suiying, however, saw things rather differently.
As far as he was concerned, no matter how badly he bullied the boy, it was perfectly natural for Jian Suilin to try to please him. He was the eldest grandson of the main branch of the Jian family. He could earn money and get things done, and plenty of family members relied on him and his father to maintain their comfortable lifestyles. His grandfather was getting on now, so his father was the head of the family, with Jian Suiying the next most influential person. To put it bluntly, when his father was no longer around, who else would be running the Jian family?
Jian Suilin's mother's family had no connections, and nobody in the Jian family thought much of her either. If mother and son wanted to continue living comfortably, they'd have to depend on Jian Suiying's goodwill. Jian Suilin wasn't stupid. If he wasn't going to ingratiate himself with Jian Suiying, who else would he turn to?
That was why Jian Suiying had found it laughable when Li Yu said Suilin admired him. Jian Suilin probably wished there were no such person as Jian Suiying in the world.
Jian Suilin's hands grew stronger and stronger, until the pain made Jian Suiying bare his teeth.
“Oi, oi, that hurts! You've got some strength in those hands, haven't you?”
“It won't work if it doesn't hurt. This gets the blood circulating.”
“All right, all right, that's enough. Fuck, that hurts! Stop massaging it.”
“Brother, just bear with it a little longer. It'll heal faster this way.”
“Bloody hell, what if I want it to heal slowly? Stop!”
Jian Suiying tried to pull his foot back, but Jian Suilin held on to it, almost coaxing him.
“Brother, could you put up with it for just a little longer?”
“No.” Jian Suiying gave him a kick in the stomach. He hadn't actually used much force, and he took the opportunity to yank his foot free.
Li Yu couldn't bear to watch any longer. He sprang to his feet, his face dark.
“Suilin's only trying to help you. What are you doing?”
Both brothers froze.
This was how the Jian brothers had always interacted: one willing to dish it out, the other willing to take it. They were both accustomed to it.
Jian Suilin looked awkward. “Li Yu…”
Li Yu realised he'd lost his composure and sat down again with a frown.
Jian Suiying frowned too, unable to understand what had made him so angry. Thinking it over, was it because he'd kicked Jian Suilin? He curled his lip. He honestly didn't think it was a big deal. Who would have guessed the boy was so loyal to his friends?
Jian Suilin wiped his brother's foot clean with a wet wipe.
“Brother, didn't you want spicy crayfish? Let's go.”
“Have you got your driving licence yet?”
“I have.”
“Mm, good. What sort of car do you want to drive when you go to university?”
“Whatever you think is best, Brother.”
“Mm. Let's see how you do in your exams. Do well, and I'll get you a good car.”
“Thank you, Brother.”
Jian Suiying had always loved spicy crayfish. His mother had been especially fond of hot food. When he was little, she often brought him here, peeled the crayfish for him and put them in his bowl. His father never came; he thought places like this were unhygienic. His parents could end up arguing over even the most trivial things like that.
His mother had been a true young lady of a distinguished family, whose ancestors had amassed considerable wealth.
After that whole sordid business came to light, his grandfather had felt too ashamed to face his maternal grandfather. He'd washed his hands of family affairs altogether and retreated to the countryside to grow vegetables.
After his mother died of illness, his grandfather hadn't spoken a word to his father for four or five years. It was only after his maternal grandfather passed away, and Jian Suiying grew old enough to help reconcile them, that his grandfather finally allowed his father through the door again.
When he was young, Jian Suiying had hated that woman and his father intensely. Just how rebellious had he been? If something could embarrass or hurt them, he'd do it.
He remembered once throwing Jian Suilin, who was only seven or eight at the time, into a swimming pool. He had tied a rope around the boy's hand and squatted by the edge, watching him struggle in the water. When Suilin had thrashed about long enough, he'd haul him out, only to repeat the whole thing three or four times.
When his father found out, he beat Jian Suiying so badly that he could barely get out of bed for almost a month.
That probably wasn't even the worst thing he'd done. Looking back on how reckless he'd been as a child, it was something of a miracle he hadn't killed Jian Suilin, or been beaten to death by his father himself.
He had no interest in doing things like that now. In fact, thinking back on his childhood, he did feel a little guilty. Besides, Jian Suilin knew how to make himself useful and was constantly running around trying to please him. So Jian Suiying genuinely believed he had been treating Jian Suilin rather well these days. For one thing, he'd spent no less than two million yuan over the past couple of years teaching him about business, shares and investments.
He simply regarded Jian Suilin's kindness towards him as an expression of filial devotion.
Just look at him now. Jian Suilin was deftly peeling crayfish while Young Master Jian popped them into his mouth one after another.
“Mm, this place really does make the best crayfish. Little Lin, peel a few for Li Yu too.”
Li Yu's face darkened. “I can do it myself.”
“Let him. You won't have to get your hands dirty. They're hot, too.”
Li Yu said expressionlessly, “I'm used to doing things for myself.” He tore the head off a crayfish in one swift movement, a small flame of anger rising inside him.
He particularly hated the way Jian Suiying gave Jian Suilin orders.
In Li Yu's eyes, Jian Suilin possessed a rare elegance for a boy his age. He was gentle and courteous in his dealings with people and very popular at school. Even Li Yu's father had said that this boy knew how to handle people and would go far in life.
For nearly ten years, Li Yu had looked forward to seeing Jian Suilin again. Time spent with him was precious to Li Yu, yet Jian Suiying treated him as casually as a servant. It was like seeing something as a precious jewel, being content just to catch the occasional glimpse of it, only to watch someone else use it as a stone to weigh down a pickle jar, something they could take or leave. The enormous difference between those feelings filled him with resentment towards Jian Suiying.
Jian Suiying seemed not to notice the barbed meaning behind his words. He took a long swig of Yanjing beer.
“You two shouldn't eat too much. It's very spicy, and I'm worried it'll upset your stomachs. And don't drink any beer; it's too cold. We're here to have a meal, but we must make sure you're both in good shape tomorrow. We can't have you getting the runs or being unable to sleep.”
Jian Suilin nodded with a smile. “Don't worry, Brother.”
“Nervous?” Jian Suiying asked.
“No.”
“Oh? Really?”
Jian Suilin smiled. “Really. I've prepared myself mentally.”
Jian Suiying grinned, then turned to Li Yu. “What about you, Li Yu? Nervous?”
Li Yu shook his head. “I don't feel much of anything.”
“Not bad. You've got some nerve. I wasn't nervous at all before my university entrance exams either, because I already knew I wouldn't do well. Didn't matter, though. I don't make my living from my qualifications.”
Jian Suilin immediately said, “You're clever, Brother.”
“Mm, I am. But you're different. You've always had good grades, and the family expects a lot from you. We don't know yet whether you'll go into politics or business, but getting into a good university can only help your future career. So do your best tomorrow. If you get into X University…”
Jian Suilin looked at him with a flicker of anticipation in his eyes.
“If you get in, you can ask me for whatever you want.”
Jian Suilin's eyes brightened, but he said nothing.
Jian Suiying laughed. “Haven't thought of anything yet? Fine. Keep the offer. Tell me when you've made up your mind.”
“Thank you, Brother.”
Jian Suiying turned to Li Yu again. “Where do you two want to go when the exams are over? I'll take you somewhere.”
Li Yu glanced at Jian Suilin without answering. The summer holiday he'd been waiting for was almost here. Nothing would be better than spending it with Jian Suilin, but he really didn't want to see Jian Suiying.
Jian Suilin looked a little excited. “Brother, you're going to take us on holiday? Don't you have to work?”
“I'm my own boss. Whether I go to work or not is up to me.”
“I'm happy going anywhere. Whatever's convenient for you.”
Jian Suiying thought about it and realised he had no idea where to take them. If he were taking Li Yu alone, he could think of plenty of romantic places. But where was he supposed to take his own younger brother as well? An amusement park?
His gaze lingered greedily on Li Yu. He hoped he'd soon find a chance to be alone with him.
Neither Jian Suilin nor Li Yu drank. They merely watched as Jian Suiying slowly turned red, as though he'd been soaking in a vat of wine.
As they talked more, Li Yu's resistance towards Jian Suiying eased slightly. Jian Suiying was widely travelled and knowledgeable, could talk confidently about almost anything, and enjoyed making jokes. He was actually quite entertaining to speak to.
The three ate, drank and chatted, and the time slipped away without them noticing. That night, Jian Suilin and Li Yu stayed at Jian Suiying's home. The following morning, they took a taxi to their examination centre.
For the first time in his life, Jian Suiying did what an older brother was supposed to do: he went to collect his younger brother after his younger brother's university entrance exam. Of course, his main reason for going had very little to do with his brother.
As soon as his car reached the entrance to the street where the school was located, he felt a headache coming on.
Cars were packed so tightly along the road that the whole street was almost impassable. As far as the eye could see, there were people and cars, and then more cars and people.
Twenty minutes later, Jian Suiying's car had moved less than ten metres.
“Fuck's sake, look at this traffic… All right, don't bother going any farther. I'll get out and find them myself. Turn round up ahead and wait for us on the other side of the road.”
His driver was relieved too. Anyone would be irritated by crawling forwards at such a snail's pace.
The moment Jian Suiying opened the door, a wave of heat nearly knocked him back into the car. He squinted up at the blazing sun, climbed out and headed towards the school gate.
His ankle still hurt a little, but not enough to stop him walking. The real problem was the unbearable heat. Fortunately, it was only about a hundred metres. He ambled over and stood beside a crowd of anxious middle-aged parents, all craning their necks to look through the school gate.
Young Master Jian was tall, long-legged and strikingly distinguished. Standing amongst all those parents, he was particularly conspicuous. He asked a woman beside him how much longer the exam had to go and learnt that the morning session would finish in two or three minutes. He promptly found some shade beneath a tree and waited patiently.
As he looked around idly, he heard someone call out, “Young Master Jian,” from behind him.
He turned and saw a tall, handsome man bearing some resemblance to Li Yu, though his appearance was more serious and composed. The man strode with an air of authority that made it clear he was no ordinary person.
“Oh! Well, if it isn't Young Master Li!”
The newcomer was none other than Li Yu's older brother, Li Xuan.
Jian Suiying didn't know him particularly well.
Li Xuan smiled, pushed his way through the crowd and shook his hand. “What a coincidence.”
Jian Suiying smiled too. “Isn't it? Must be fate. Here to pick up Li Yu?”
“I'm waiting for him, though not exactly here to take him home. He told me he's staying at your place with Suilin now. I only got off the plane today and came straight here. I haven't even had time to ring and thank you. I'm sorry to have put you to so much trouble.”
“What trouble? You're being far too polite. Your little brother might as well be my little brother. Besides, those two get on so well. Having someone to chat with before the exams helps them relax. It's good for their performance.” Jian Suiying spoke with a beaming smile, making a definite effort to ingratiate himself with Li Xuan.
Li Xuan had done exceptionally well for himself. From childhood onwards, the word ‘outstanding’ had followed him everywhere, and his career had gone from strength to strength.
Although Jian Suiying himself was enjoying a successful period, his second uncle was, after all, his uncle and not his father. Besides, he would eventually retire. His cousin was still young, and nobody had settled on a successor.
Li Xuan smiled in agreement. “Exactly. I know from experience how important your state of mind is before the entrance exams. Staying with you puts him closer to the exam centre and saves all sorts of trouble. I really ought to thank you properly.”
“Please, don't mention it. It's nothing. Just a bed and a few meals.”
They exchanged smiles and began chatting about this and that.
Before long, Jian Suiying skilfully steered the conversation towards land.
He hadn't been talking nonsense to his father the other day. He really did want to acquire another plot.
The more he thought about it, the more he felt Li Xuan was the most promising connection, so he tentatively sounded him out.
This was hardly the place to discuss business, though. Li Xuan was distracted, keeping an eye on the groups of students streaming through the gate. He didn't answer directly, smoothly sidestepping the subject and suggesting they arrange a meal together sometime to discuss it properly.
Jian Suiying knew the timing wasn't right. He'd only wanted to mention it in passing so the matter would leave an impression on Li Xuan.
Not long afterwards, he spotted an extraordinarily handsome youth with rosy lips and white teeth emerging from the school gate. He was even more excited than Li Xuan and shouted from a distance, “Li Yu! Li Yu!”
Li Xuan jumped at the sudden outburst and gave him a look of surprise.
Li Yu hadn't heard a thing. There were too many people.
Li Xuan called out twice as well and tried to push through, but the parents were all surging towards the gate, making it almost impossible to get any closer.
Jian Suiying quickly took out his phone and called Li Yu.
From a distance, he saw Li Yu take out his phone, frown and hesitate before finally answering.
“Look to your left,” Jian Suiying said.
Li Yu paused and turned his head. There was Jian Suiying waving at him, with his own older brother standing beside him.
Li Yu smiled at Li Xuan and hurried over. “Brother! What are you doing here?”
“Mum and Dad didn't want to come with all these people and cars about, so they sent me to see how you're getting on.”
Li Yu grinned, showing his white teeth. “I think it's going pretty well.” Then he remembered something and turned towards Jian Suiying. “Brother Jian, Suilin isn't in the same examination room as me.”
Just then, his phone rang again.
“Hello? Suilin, your brother's here. We're to the left of the school gate.”
Before long, Jian Suilin arrived as well, looking as though he'd hurried over, but with a perfectly calm expression.
Jian Suiying showed an unusual amount of concern. “How did it go?”
Jian Suilin smiled faintly. “I don't really have a feeling either way. I don't think it went too badly.”
“Ha! Good. Don't think about it now. Once an exam's over, it's over. You've still got the other papers to prepare for.”
Li Xuan patted Li Yu on the shoulder. “Your Brother Jian's right. No point thinking about it once it's done. Second Brother, you've been imposing on him by staying at his place. Have you thanked him properly?”
“Oh, give it a rest.” Jian Suiying clapped Li Xuan on the shoulder. “Are you ever going to stop thanking me?”
Li Xuan burst out laughing. “Lunch is on me today. Suilin, where would you like to eat?”
Jian Suilin smiled. “Anywhere is fine.”
“No need to go out,” Jian Suiying said. “I've had lunch prepared at my place. Come on, come on. You can all rest there this afternoon.”
Li Xuan politely protested a few times, but Jian Suiying insisted that he come back with them.
In the end, Li Xuan went along with it. “All right, then. The boys can have a nap after lunch.”
Jian Suiying led the three of them along the street to where his driver was waiting on the opposite side.
When they reached the car, there was a slight problem. Not one of the four men was under six feet tall. One could sit in the front, but the other three would have to squeeze into the back. Anyone could imagine how uncomfortable that would be for three grown men.
Jian Suiying regretted bringing such a small saloon and insisted that Li Xuan take the front passenger seat. Li Xuan politely insisted that Jian Suiying sit there instead. They didn't know each other well, so both had to show the other proper respect if they wanted to build a relationship in the future.
At last, Jian Suiying practically pushed Li Xuan into the front seat. He then happily climbed into the back, squeezing himself between his younger brother and Li Yu.
During the drive, Jian Suiying phoned ahead to have the house tidied and lunch prepared. When they arrived, there was nobody else in sight, only the aroma of freshly cooked dishes filling the rooms.
When Jian Suiying was in a good mood, he liked opening a good bottle of wine. Even he'd had little regard for the sweet wine he'd served when he first met Li Yu. This time, however, the two younger ones couldn't drink.
Unexpectedly, no sooner had he brought out the wine than Li Xuan began to smile and wave his hands dismissively.
“Suiying, no, please. I've got proper business to attend to this afternoon. I really can't drink.”
Jian Suiying was terribly disappointed. “Come on, just one glass. Four grown men sitting round a table without touching a drop of alcohol? Does that seem right to you?”
Li Xuan kept his courteous smile, but his refusal was firm. “Next time I'll definitely drink to my heart's content with you. But I really can't today.”
Jian Suiying had no choice but to put the wine back in the cabinet and invite everyone to sit down and eat.
At first, the two students remembered their teachers' warnings not to compare answers after an exam. But after a few exchanges, they couldn't help themselves and the conversation drifted back towards the test.
“Oi,” Li Xuan interjected. “You two shouldn't be talking about that. It'll affect your performance.” He promptly changed the subject. “It's really hot today, isn't it? Even standing still outside had me sweating all over.”
“Tell me about it,” Jian Suiying said. “How many days are you back for this time?”
“About a week, tentatively. There's an important meeting I need to attend, so I took the opportunity to come back and see my little brother.”
“In that case, see when you're free over the next couple of days. Once they've finished their entrance exams, I'll treat you all to a meal.”
“There's really no need. Isn't today's lunch more than enough?”
Li Xuan declined a few more times before finally agreeing.
Jian Suiying thought his luck was excellent today. Not only had he been able to admire a certain little beauty, but he'd also taken the opportunity to draw closer to Li Xuan. It was a small victory in both romance and business. He had a keen sense that things were going his way lately. Whenever luck was on your side, you had to take advantage of it and climb as fast as possible. Such chances didn't wait around for you. That was a principle Jian Suiying had always believed in and followed.
The four of them enjoyed an amicable lunch. Afterwards, Jian Suiying sent the two boys off for an afternoon nap. He brewed a pot of tea and sat chatting with Li Xuan in the living room.
Talking with someone like Li Xuan, who came from an influential background and was young, accomplished and widely experienced, was both enjoyable and rewarding. They had plenty in common to discuss, and Jian Suiying learnt quite a bit besides.
In short, they chatted the whole afternoon, growing much closer. Jian Suiying even found himself regretting that they hadn't become friends sooner.
When the time came, Jian Suilin and Li Yu woke up. Li Xuan gave Li Yu a few words of advice and left first, while Jian Suilin had the driver take them back to school.
Jian Suiying took Jian Suilin to a hotel. This time there were only four people at dinner. As the two brothers entered the private dining room one after the other, they found their father sitting with Jian Suilin's mother, Zhao Yan. The two had been talking about something, and Zhao Yan's brow was furrowed as though she were somewhat unwilling.
When Jian Dongyuan saw his sons walk in, both impressive in bearing and handsome in appearance, he was filled with fatherly pride. For some reason, he became emotional.
“Good, good! Ah, young lady.” He beckoned to the nearby hotel manager, smiling from ear to ear. “Take a look at my two sons. Aren't they fine young men?”
The manager knew exactly how to flatter a guest, and her sweet words came effortlessly. “Like father, like sons! President Jian's two sons are clearly young gentlemen from a distinguished family. You can tell just by the way they walk.”
Jian Dongyuan laughed happily. “It's a pity, though. A real pity. If only I had a daughter too.”
The manager hurried to say, “Then get Young Master Jian to marry and bring you a daughter-in-law. It'd be like getting a daughter for free!”
Jian Dongyuan gave Jian Suiying a look that was neither quite a smile nor a frown. He sighed, disappointed, and pointed at him.
“This boy… I don't even know whether there's any hope of that with you.”
Jian Suiying pretended not to hear.
Ordinarily, whenever his father brought up his sexuality, Jian Suiying would respond with a hostile expression, even if they didn't go so far as to fall out over it. Today his father probably didn't want to spoil the mood, so he said nothing more.
“Suilin, go and sit beside your mother. Suiying, sit here with me.”
Jian Dongyuan personally poured Jian Suilin a glass of wine.
“Come on. Today your old man is pouring you a drink to celebrate the end of twelve long years of studying. I know it isn't easy being a student. You've always made your mother and me proud. No matter what the results are, we've seen how hard you've worked, and that's more than enough for us.”
Jian Suilin hurriedly stood up. “Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Mum.”
The three of them exchanged a great many sickeningly affectionate words from the very beginning. Apart from the occasional mention of Jian Suiying by Jian Dongyuan, he was largely excluded. He listlessly swirled the wine in his glass. When his eyes met Zhao Yan's, she immediately looked away.
He let out a cold laugh. He knew this woman was afraid of him. If Young Master Jian couldn't even keep one little home-wrecking vixen under control, he might as well give up altogether. He was very satisfied with her fear. Ideally, she would spend the rest of her life on tenterhooks, too afraid to raise her voice to him, all for the sake of securing her own and her son's comfortable place in the Jian family.
And even that, in Jian Suiying's opinion, would be letting her off far too lightly.
After all, she still got to wear gold and jewellery as Jian Dongyuan's lawful wife, while his own mother had been driven to her grave by anger and distress, without even living long enough to watch her son grow up.
As the meal drew to a close, Jian Dongyuan asked his younger son, “Suilin, what are your plans for the summer holiday?”
Jian Suilin sipped his tea. He was particularly good at reading people's expressions. “Dad, did you have something in mind?”
Jian Dongyuan said, “You've finally finished your exams, and I don't mind you relaxing for a few days. But you can't waste the entire two-month holiday playing around.”
“I understand.”
“You've always been obedient, ever since you were little. Your brother, on the other hand, was beyond my control… Suiying, tell your brother what you got up to.”
Jian Suiying gave a lazy smile. “I nicked one of your cars and pawned it. Then I went off with some friends and spent more than two months trading seafood. Made a bit of money, then gave you the car back.”
Jian Dongyuan snorted with amusement. “This little bastard's been running wild since he was a child. Never gave me a day's peace. Suilin, you've always been a boy who never makes the adults worry. Your brother might get up to all sorts of nonsense, but he really is capable. I don't want you learning how to drive me mad from him. What I do want is for you to learn how he does business and deals with people. In just a few years, he's made a name for himself. When people mention him now, they don't immediately think of whose son he is.”
Jian Suilin's shining gaze settled on Jian Suiying.
Jian Suiying continued swirling his wine. “Dad, why don't you just say what you're getting at?”
“What I'm saying is, let him have two weeks to enjoy himself. After that, he can spend the rest of his holiday interning at your company.”
Jian Suiying sighed. “Dad, interning at my place? I wouldn't want him underfoot even if you paid me.”
“The whole point of sending him there is for him to learn what he doesn't know. If he could already do everything, why would he need you to teach him?”
Jian Suiying wasn't happy. “I don't keep useless hangers-on at my company. If you really want to teach him something, send him to wash dishes.”
Zhao Yan immediately sat bolt upright and looked almost pleadingly at Jian Dongyuan.
Since childhood, Jian Suiying had been raised as the future head of the Jian family. He was strong-willed and arrogant, and even when he was little, hardly anyone in the family could control him. Now that he was grown, his words carried even more weight. If he genuinely wanted Jian Suilin to wash dishes, he might very well persuade Jian Dongyuan to agree, however absurd his reasoning.
Suilin was Zhao Yan's precious darling. How could she bear it? She hadn't agreed with the idea of sending him to intern at Jian Suiying's company in the first place, but Jian Dongyuan had insisted, and there was nothing she could do. Now she was terrified that if Jian Suiying was provoked too far, Suilin would really end up washing dishes for two months. In the Jian family, women had almost no say when the men were talking.
Fortunately, Jian Dongyuan was relatively sensible this time. He frowned.
“Don't talk rubbish. What's he going to learn washing dishes? I'm sending him to you so he can learn something useful.”
Jian Suiying couldn't have been less willing. The thought of being forced to see Jian Suilin every day for two whole months made his skin crawl. He was genuinely afraid he'd lose control and feel the urge to mistreat him again.
While Jian Dongyuan and his eldest son remained at an impasse, Jian Suilin leaned forward slightly, his manner utterly sincere.
“Brother, let me intern at your company. I don't mind starting by cleaning the floors.”
Jian Suiying pulled a thoroughly sour face. “Who needs you cleaning? Our cleaner earns three thousand two hundred a month. She's raising a child and supporting a sick husband, and she does a brilliant job. What, are you going to steal her livelihood?”
The expressions on both Jian Suilin's and Zhao Yan's faces changed at once. He was quite obviously being deliberately cutting.
Jian Dongyuan knew perfectly well that Jian Suiying had never treated Suilin well. Because he himself was in the wrong, he'd never been able to defend his younger son too openly. But to speak like this in front of him and the boy's mother was an insult to his authority. He slapped the table and barked, “Suiying! How can you speak to your brother like that? What's wrong with letting him come and help you while learning a few things? What are you so unwilling for? How much trouble could he possibly cause you?”
Jian Suiying rolled his eyes. He couldn't be bothered arguing with his father. They'd quarrelled far too often in the past, and just thinking about it exhausted him.
He drained his glass in one gulp, then stood.
“He can come if he wants. I won't interrupt your nice family meal any longer. I'll be off.”
With that, he turned and walked out.
Jian Dongyuan's face turned red with anger.
Jian Suilin watched his older brother's retreating back, and a trace of happiness gradually appeared in his eyes.
Jian Suiying drove home with irritation simmering inside him. The thought of those three sitting together made his chest feel painfully tight. His expectations of Zhao Yan and Jian Suilin had become very simple: the less he saw of them, the better. Yet his father refused to leave things that way. He kept pushing Jian Suilin towards him, trying to awaken their brotherly affection.
What a load of bollocks.
Jian Suiying pulled over and struck the steering wheel hard. He felt awful and wanted someone to help him unwind. He took out his phone and flicked through his contacts impatiently. Who should he call tonight? Looking at those familiar names, he found he couldn't quite remember some of their faces.
When he reached Li Yu's name, his finger stopped. Li Yu's face appeared in his mind with startling clarity, so vivid it was as though the boy were standing right in front of him.
He really was fucking good-looking, especially that little habit of acting as though he couldn't be bothered giving anyone the time of day. It made Jian Suiying itch with interest.
Almost without thinking, he pressed the call button.
The other end picked up. “Brother Jian?”
Their time together over the past couple of days had somewhat improved Li Yu's attitude towards him. He'd even been willing to make a joke or two over dinner.
“Hey. Gone to bed yet?”
“It's not even ten o'clock.”
“Oh, that's true. So how was it? Did your family throw you a celebration when you got home?”
“I wouldn't call it a celebration. The results aren't out yet. We just had a family meal to celebrate me escaping the ordeal.”
“Ha ha! That's certainly worth celebrating.”
Li Yu asked, “Did you need something, Brother Jian? Are you with Suilin?”
“Ah, no. Nothing in particular. I've been seeing you every day lately, haven't I? Now I suddenly haven't seen you; it feels a bit strange.”
“Oh. Is Suilin with you?”
Li Yu had asked again precisely the question Jian Suiying had hoped to avoid. It made him uncomfortable.
“No. I've gone back to my own place.”
“Oh…” Li Yu sounded a little disappointed. “I've called him and sent him messages today, but he hasn't responded. I don't know what's happened.”
“Maybe he forgot his phone. We went out for dinner today.”
Li Yu gave a soft hum of acknowledgement.
They seemed to have run out of things to say. Jian Suiying adjusted his tone, trying not to sound quite so hopeful.
“Are you finished with everything? Fancy going out for a bit?”
Li Yu sounded surprised. “Huh? Where?”
“Nowhere in particular. Just a drive. There's something on my mind. Would you be willing to keep your Brother Jian company?”
Li Yu hesitated. “Is Suilin coming?”
Jian Suiying's face darkened. “He's not coming.”
Li Yu went quiet. That single second of hesitation was enough to make Jian Suiying's heart sink.
Sure enough, Li Yu replied, “Brother Jian, could we do it another day? I've already had a shower.”
Jian Suiying answered coolly, “Oh, you've already had a shower. Then I've called at a bad time. You'd better get some sleep.”
“All right.”
“I'll hang up, then.”
“All right.”
“Goodnight, Little Li.”
“Oh. Goodnight.”
Li Yu gave a couple of awkward little laughs without saying anything else.
Disappointed, Jian Suiying ended the call.
After resting at home for several days, he'd accumulated quite a pile of work at the company. Once he returned, he was busy for days on end. But he hadn't forgotten his promise to take Li Xuan out for a meal.
Li Xuan really was a busy man. Jian Suiying tried inviting him out two days in a row, but he wasn't free either time. Jian Suiying didn't want to appear too eager, so he stopped calling. He'd assumed he wouldn't see Li Xuan again before he left. Then, several afternoons later, he unexpectedly received a call from Li Yu.
At the sight of the caller ID, Jian Suiying felt his heart give a couple of violent thumps. It was the first time Li Yu had ever called him.
“Hello? Li Yu?”
“Brother Jian.”
“Oh! What can your Brother Jian do for you?”
“I'm with my older brother. He's free tonight and wanted to ask if you had time.”
“Of course I do. Your brother's about to go back to Guangxi. Whatever else I've got on, I'll put it aside and give him a proper send-off.”
Li Yu said, “Where shall we meet tonight?”
“I'll text you the address. Shall we say seven?”
“All right. See you at seven.”
Jian Suiying had only just arrived home and already ordered takeaway. He immediately rang back to cancel the delivery.
He took a shower, changed his clothes and, worried about traffic, set off fifty minutes early for what should have been a twenty-minute drive. He arrived at the restaurant in less than twenty minutes.
Once inside the private dining room, he casually leafed through the menu.
At around 27, his phone rang. The caller ID showed Li Xuan.
“Hello, Li Xuan.”
“Suiying, where have you got to?”
“I'm already here. Thought the traffic would be bad today, but it turned out fine.”
“Huh? You're there already?”
“Take your time. It's not seven yet. I'll order some dishes while I wait.”
“…Suiying, I'm terribly sorry. Something's come up at the last minute, and I can't make it.”
“Huh?” Jian Suiying was instantly annoyed. He understood perfectly well why their earlier arrangements had fallen through twice: Li Xuan was busy. But they'd made definite plans this time, and now he was cancelling just like that. Anyone would be unhappy. Besides, Jian Suiying had spent his whole life being flattered and courted by other people. Nobody dared put on airs with him. If it hadn't been Li Xuan, he'd certainly have let the other party feel his displeasure.
Li Xuan kept apologising. “Suiying, something really has happened unexpectedly. I have to attend to it myself. I'm so sorry.”
What could Jian Suiying say?
“It's fine. If it's important, you'd better get on with it. Don't let me hold you up.”
“Tell you what, Suiying. I'll come to your company tomorrow morning. Didn't you have something you wanted to discuss? We can talk in your office.”
Only then did Jian Suiying's expression soften. “All right, that works. But I've already ordered food here. How about this? Since you're in such a rush, you probably won't have time to eat. I'll have my driver bring it over to you.”
“No, no. That would be far too much trouble.”
“It's no trouble. I can't eat all this on my own anyway. It'd only go to waste.”
“I'll grab something to eat in the car. Tell you what, I'll send Li Yu over to keep you company at dinner.”
Jian Suiying's eyes lit up. “That'd be great! Better than eating alone. Send him over.”
Although Li Xuan hadn't been able to come, Jian Suiying had been handed the unexpected pleasure of a dinner alone with Li Yu. Delighted, he snapped the menu shut and told the waitress, “Go ahead and prepare these dishes first.”
With a little time still to spare, Jian Suiying went into the bathroom and spent ages fixing his hair.
Li Yu arrived right on time.
Jian Suiying was sitting in a private room on the first floor, his eyes fixed on the street below. Just before seven, he saw an Audi pull up outside the restaurant. Li Yu emerged, wearing a loose grey T-shirt and light-coloured jeans. Compared with Jian Suiying's carefully chosen designer outfit, Li Yu was dressed in an extremely casual, relaxed fashion, as though he'd merely come downstairs for a barbecue. Yet even in such simple clothes, without the slightest effort to dress himself up, his naturally excellent figure and handsome face still made Jian Suiying's heart flutter.
His eyes followed Li Yu almost every step of the way into the restaurant.
Jian Suiying fiddled with his hair a couple more times, adjusted his posture and pretended to look at his phone.
The waitress showed Li Yu inside. Jian Suiying looked up with a smile.
“Little Li, you've arrived.”
Li Yu nodded. “Brother Jian, my brother had something come up and couldn't make it. I'm here to apologise on his behalf.”
“Oh, don't be so formal. Who doesn't have something unexpected crop up now and then? Do you think your Brother Jian needs an apology for something like that? Come on, sit down. What would you like to drink?”
Li Yu tilted his head. “Brother Jian, Suilin isn't here?”
Jian Suiying paused in surprise. Why on earth would Suilin be here?
Something flickered across Li Yu's eyes. He lowered his head and sat down.
“No need for anything. Tea will be fine.”
“Don't fancy a drink?” Jian Suiying was so accustomed to doing business over meals that eating out without alcohol always seemed to him as though something was missing.
Li Yu shook his head decisively. “I don't drink.”
Jian Suiying glanced awkwardly at the waitress. “Bring the cold dishes out first.”
The young woman wanted to pour Li Yu's tea before leaving, but Jian Suiying waved her away. Once she'd gone, he personally poured Li Yu a cup.
“Here, have something to wet your throat. It's quite dry today.”
Li Yu said politely, “Brother Jian, I can do it myself.”
Jian Suiying handed him the menu with enthusiasm. “I've ordered a few of their better dishes, but I don't know if they'll suit your taste. Have a look and order something you fancy.”
“It's fine. I'm not fussy about food. We won't be able to finish it if we order too much.”
“Go on, have a look. I haven't ordered much. You could choose a dessert if you like.”
Li Yu gave a faint smile. “Brother Jian, this is fine. There are only two of us. We can't eat that much.” As he finished speaking, his gaze began to wander.
Jian Suiying thought he seemed rather distracted and frowned.
“What have you been doing at home these last few days? Sleeping the whole time?”
Li Yu turned back towards him with a smile. “Pretty much. I haven't gone out much.”
“Got any plans for the summer holiday? Anywhere you want to go?”
“Actually, about that…” Li Yu finally turned his whole body towards him. “I heard from Suilin that he's going to intern at your company?”
“Yeah. My old man arranged it.” Jian Suiying was still unhappy about the whole thing, but did his best not to show it.
Li Yu rested his chin on one hand, smiling faintly. “Brother Jian, could you include me too?”
Jian Suiying stared at him.
“I'd like to come as well. I know I'm not qualified and have a lot to learn. I've no idea how much trouble I might cause you. But I learn quickly, and I wondered if you could give me a chance.”
Jian Suiying was suddenly overjoyed. He couldn't have wished for anything better than Li Yu coming to work for him. It would only cost a little extra money, and think how many opportunities he'd have to spend time with him by taking advantage of his position at the company! He could certainly do that calculation.
But Young Master Jian was, after all, a seasoned businessman.
The smile in Li Yu's eyes deepened. “Brother Jian, you do big business. There aren't many people of your generation who can compare with you. I discussed it with my parents last night, and they agree I'd learn a great deal from you. I'm not afraid of hard work. I'm only worried you won't think I'm good enough.”
Jian Suiying thought, I've thought you were more than good enough for ages.
He hurriedly said, “Of course I would! Even Suilin says you're clever. If you're putting it like that, how could I possibly refuse? All right, your Brother Jian knew he wasn't wrong about you. I bet you'll do even better than me in the future.”
It was the most Li Yu had said to him in a single conversation since they'd met, and he'd spent much of it flattering Jian Suiying. Jian Suiying was used to people sucking up to him, but none of them could make him as happy as Li Yu did with a couple of casual compliments.
Li Yu promptly thanked him.
Jian Suiying said, “Little Li, you can certainly come, and I'll make sure to teach you properly. But let's get something straight first. Once you're at my company, you're my employee. You'll have to follow your superiors' instructions in everything. Don't go throwing a young master's tantrum when the time comes.”
Li Yu smiled. “I wouldn't dare.”
Jian Suiying was practically bursting with delight. It occurred to him that he'd have to go away on business soon. He could take Li Yu along. What a wonderful opportunity!
Before long, most of the dishes had arrived. Young Master Jian was in such a good mood that, although Li Yu wouldn't drink, he ordered himself a bottle of beer to celebrate.
As they ate, Jian Suiying casually teased him.
“You and Little Lin are certainly joined at the hip, aren't you? Wherever you go, you have to bring each other along.”
Li Yu's chopsticks paused for a moment before he replied as though nothing had happened, “We've known each other for more than ten years.”
“When did you meet?”
“When we were five or six, I think. At some gathering.”
“Kids the same age naturally get along. That's good. You'll be able to look out for each other in the future.”
At the time, Jian Suiying genuinely didn't think much of it. When he was Li Yu's age, he'd had a whole crowd of brothers and friends and spent his days fooling around with them. As he saw it, a teenage boy who preferred spending time with friends who could help him in the future, rather than chasing girls' skirts, clearly had a better head on his shoulders.
Jian Suiying then gave Li Yu a general explanation of what his property investment company did, which projects were currently most important, and the sort of work Li Yu could expect to do there.
Li Yu listened attentively.
After dinner, Jian Suiying wanted to take him somewhere for a bit of fun.
“A mate of mine has opened a new bar. I haven't been round to show my support yet. Why don't I take you there tonight?”
Li Yu thought about it and couldn't really see any reason to refuse.