YHRKSL CH 5

Translator’s Note:

Hope you are enjoying this story! The first few chapters establish the scene, but from now on we’ll be seeing more of a romantic comedy between our two leads. Compared to Ye Feiran’s previous works, this definitely is less lawyer/work heavy as there aren’t that many cases to focus on (at least based on the chapters that have been released as of now).

Chapter 5: Didn’t You Say I Was Pretty ‘Good’ at Graduation?

Because the court where Zhao Yanyan worked was close by, the two met at a ramen restaurant during lunch break.

Qi Xi’s internship was already unfavorable, so she vomited all the bitter water that was spilled on her. It’s a pity that Zhao Yanyan was completely immersed in reading her novels that she chose to recommend a novel at the moment.

“The real word is hard. During lunch break, I usually read novels and watch dramas to divert my attention.”

As Zhao Yanyan spoke this, she couldn’t help but recommend one of the most recent novels she was addicted to, “You really must read this, ‘Fengxian‘ it is Ai Xiang’s famous work! It’s a complete dark horse. Even if the writing style isn’t that good, the plot twists are amazing. The characters are 3D, and the most important thing is that the whole concept is grand and well thought out. I feel like the author should be praised. He wrote a fairy tale which such elegance, and he’s male… the female characters in the entire story are shaped so well. He didn’t put down any of the female characters.”

Zhao Yanyan was obviously a fan of Ai Xiang, “The most important thing is the love between Ai Xiang and his wife! He’s a poor boy with only a high school education, while his wife is a rich beauty from a Kochi family. He fell in love with her at first sight, writing love letters every day, pursuing her for 5 years, and finally seeing the sunlight. He and his wife now have a son and daughter.”

Qi Xi doesn’t care about the entertainment industry much, but even she knows the popularity of Fengxian. It has a ongoing TV series, so the original books is also frequently recommended and usually pops up on the hot search.

Zhao Yanyan’s praises didn’t end, “Ai Xiang’s admirable trait is his persistence. Both for love and career. He has written novels in the past 5-6 years even though he had no money in the earlier stages. Now that Fengxian exploded, his career is booming, and the film and television copyright have sold for astronomical prices. I heard the transaction price is 20 million!”

As she said this, she suddenly felt regretful, “Why didn’t I write novels in college? Maybe if I persisted in writing, I would also be rich and financially independent. There’s no future in studying law anyway…”

Qi Xi wasn’t moved by the words, “Then you have to have a wife like him, from a good family background. You should love and tolerate him. If you’re willing to let your husband write for 5-6 years without any income, or if you choose to write without any income, how do you plan on surviving? Will you eat the Northwest Wind?”

Zhao Yanyan glared at her, “Don’t you have a single romantic cell in your body? Love and marriage is a give and take. Ai Xiang is now finally relying on his own efforts, and his wife is living the life of extreme fortune. Even after so many years, he still insists on chasing his wife and writing love letters to her on Weibo everyday.”

Qi Xi curled her lips, “I only care if he gives the 20 million to his wife. What’s so touching about writing a love letter? If Gu Yan is willing to forgive me, let alone some dumb confession letter, I would give in to him every day. Wait, if he gives me 10 million, I will marry him on spot!”

Qi Xi’s words were hilariously spoke in depression, but she didn’t expect that soon after saying those words, she would hear the sound of someone choking and coughing in the opposite compartment.

The cough was bad enough that even the nearby waiters were alarmed, “Sir, are you alright?”

The man coughed for a while before Qi Xi heard the chilling voice, “I’m fine. Thank you.”

…

Shit… it turned out to be Gu Yan!!

Zhao Yanyan heard him as well and silently looked at Qi Xi who was gradually losing hope.

At this moment, Qi Xi didn’t believe she was struck with just a simple stroke of bad luck…

Fortunately, Gu Yan didn’t even bother to care for her. He just finished eating the noodles, paid the bill, and left, leaving Qi Xi in a state of despair. She was unable to swallow in her embarrassment, suddenly realizing the importance of being prudent in her words and deeds.

But as long as you have thick skin, life will go on. Especially as long as there is work to fill the time. People won’t have the time to think about such a mess!

After lunch, Qi Xi returned to the office to meet her first client since beginning work.

To be precise, it was Gu Xuehan’s client, but Gu Xuehan called Qi Xi and Gu Yan for the case.

Getting in touch with the clients and cases slowly was a method most senior lawyers used to get interns comfortable. First, they would start auditing, and then they would usually cooperate with recordings and interviews. There was no real pressure; however, as time passed, interns gradually had more presence in the case. This all served to smoothen the transition into when they would be full-fledged lawyers.

This time Gu Xuehan’s client was named Chen Xiang. She was a woman with gentle looks and long hair, appearing to be 27 or 28 years old, and well-dressed. It appeared as though she and Gu Xuehan knew each other for a long time. As soon as they met, she smiled and waved.

Gu Xuehan, as a capable lawyer, quickly started business, “What’s wrong, sister Xiang? What can we help with?”

“It’s my husband’s film and television contract dispute,” Chen Xiang took out a copy of the contract from her bad. She prepared several copies and handed one to each person present in the room, “This is the film and television copyright authorization for his new series.”

Film and television copyright licensing issues? It sounds interesting…

As soon as Qi Xi picked up the contract, her interest deepened.

This is the same film and television copyright contract that Zhao Yanyan was speaking about.

So… the gentle and elegant Chen Xiang in front of me is the wife of Ai Xiang?

Chen Xiang smile, “My husband signed this contract when this novel first was serialized. At the time, ‘Fengxian‘ had not yet aired, so the price for the exclusive rights was low. But now that Fengxian is aired, there was been a huge increase in the quotation price. We wanted to know if the old contract could be invalidated.”

Didn’t the serialized novel sell for 20 million? Is that a normal amount?

It was only after Qi Xi turned the contract did she find out the true price, “5 million? Wasn’t it publicized that the rights were sold for 20 million?”

Seeing Qi Xi’s surprise, Gu Xuehan calmly explained, “The copyright price for television and film contracts is usually a trade secret. Sometimes they hype the actual price. Writers are willing to publicize higher prices to improve their market worth. Some film companies even falsify purchase prices to be able to resell the project at a higher price or to increase production costs. So, there is usually some buffer with the reported price and the actual price.”

Chen Xiang nodded, “Yes, but some companies have already bid 20 million for my husband’s new book.”

Gu Xuehan raised her brow, “So you want to terminate your contract? Do you think the previous sale of 5 million was sold at a loss? Did the other party breach the contract?”

Chen Xiang had some embarrassment, “There is no breach of contract. But we have calculated the losses. If we breach the contract, according to the contract, in addition to returning the copyright fee, we would also have to pay 20% of the film and television contract as liquidated damages. We can afford it, but the film and television company is unwilling to terminate the contract.”

So it the Chen Xiang and her husband who wanted to breach the contact.

After the termination, they would have to return 5 million, and 20% of liquidated damages means they would have to cover another 1 million. After signing a new contract worth 20 million, they would have made a net profit of 14 million.

Gu Xuehan nodded, “I understand. I will speak to the company on your behalf. You can rest assured. We will help you solve the termination under the best circumstances. Because the film and television copyrights are under your husband’s name, we will need to get his signature since this will be a case between the company and him.”

Chen Xiang looked relieved, “That’s good. My husband is on a business trip this week, so you should prepare an electronic contract in the meanwhile. I will print it out, have it signed, and sent back to you… In terms of the company… let’s say they are difficult to communicate with. So, I think it’s better you have professionals deal with this.”

She appeared apologetic, “I’m sorry. I have to pick up my children. Please feel free to contact me in the future for anything.”

As soon as Chen Xiang left, Gu Xuehan handed over the communication duties to Qi Xi and Gu Yan, “This case is very simple. You two can intervene, and then we will talk.”

As soon as Gu Xuehan left, Qi Xi looked at Gu Yan, “So are you going to do it, or me?”

“You do it,” Gu Yan said concisely, unwilling to give her any further attention, “I have other cases on hand.”

“But…” Qi Xi was a little nervous. “T-this is entirely because Chen Xiang mentioned the company wasn’t too good to talk to, that they won’t abide by the contract to make more money. H-how can I start the conversation. If I do this, I’ll be in for a scolding, and I’m afraid that my phone will be spammed in the future…”

“That’s your business.”

Gu Yan dropped these words and went back to sit in his seat as if he didn’t want to talk to her anymore.

Qi Xi had no choice but to bite the bullet and call.

Sure enough, as soon as she mentioned ‘termination’ the other party began scolding her, and Qi Xi finally understood why Chen Xiang was willing to pay a lawyer’s fee for something as simple as a contract termination. It’s because the other party was rude…

“Didn’t you beg in the beginning? You said you were in a hurry to get the money to make a down payment for your house. You still haven’t handed in your draft, so it stands to reason that you haven’t fulfilled your contractual obligations, so I should’ve contacted you first. Five million, you bought your house. Now home prices have risen, and you just became lucky with the broadcast of Fengxian. So you complain and want to sell the contract to someone else.”

Chen Xiang obviously tried to communicate with the company before, but as soon as Qi Xi mentioned she was Ai Xiang’s lawyer, the person in charge of the company exploded and lashed out all his anger onto Qi Xi, “While talking to you, I found the most advanced team in the industry to take over this project. Ai Xiang’s name exploded because of us. But, your vision is still shallow that you want to terminate your contract with us. Are you thinking of refunding the 5 million to make millions more? Do you think you can send me away? For the past 6 months you’ve been playing us like a monkey. You think now everything will be all good for you? We don’t agree to terminate the contract, you fucking stupid female lawyer!”

Qi Xi couldn’t endure the other party’s roar in the beginning, but when he started badmouthing and swearing at her, she couldn’t hold it anymore.

As a newcomer, she had always grown up in a well-ordered environment filled with etiquette. She always believed being a lawyer was a decent job. Such humiliation was something she was unused to.

She wanted to hold back, but the sourness spread across her body, and her eyes began to gloss over with tears.

Perhaps the mans roars and insults were loud, probably everyone in Qi Xi’s vicinity heard his words. Yet, they all were probably used to it as they were busy with their own business.

On the other end of the phone, the other party was still furious. Just when Qi Xi was lost on what she wanted to do, Gu Yan who had previously ignored her, stretched out his hand towards her. His handsome brows were slightly wrinkled as he succinctly said, “Bring it here.”

Seeing that she was stunned and didn’t respond, Gu Yan glared at her and took the landline away from her.

“Since the contract stipulates the liability for the breach of contract and our client is willing to assume responsibility, legally speaking, it is clear. Do you think your 1 million in liquidated damages is a small number? When the lawyer you hired signed the contract, you were only able to write down 20%, but now you’re saying that 1 million is not enough. Our client still needs to bear the liability for direct and indirect losses. According to the contract, we only need to pay 20%.”

Gu Yan’s appearance was cool and collected, “You should know to keep professional contracts, otherwise there would be legal risks. You should bear the consequences for hiring a lawyer who is not professional enough to allow you to sign such a risky contract. As for the project, you said you already started the production. That is something you should speak to the client with. It is pointless to entangle the lawyers in this issue.

“Finally, it’s best to keep your mouth clean in the future. If you abuse and personally attack my colleague in the future, I will record it and defend my colleague’s rights.”

After Gu Yan finished speaking, he bit out one last sentence, “Tomorrow, 10:30 in the morning. Jinghe Law Firm. Please attend on time, and everyone will negotiate the compensation amicably.”

He finished saying those words in a single swoop before hanging the phone without waiting for the other party’s response.

Qi Xi was stunned, “This is it?”

Gu Yan looked at her with a stern face, “Otherwise?”

“What if you’ve angered the other party and they don’t come tomorrow?”

“He will come,” Gu Yan pursed his lips. “If he is unwilling to cooperate with cancellation procedures, the project would become riddled with lawsuits. It wouldn’t develop smoothly anymore. After all, Ai Xiang has a lot of fans, and their impact is also quite strong. Surprisingly, he has a good media company, and this has helped his media presence. Now, not only will the company face the fans’ ire, but they will also not get the fans’ help. In the end, even if the company loses 6 million now, it would take a few years to get back the losses in reputation since they will be going through the long court process. No matter how unwilling, he will understand the benefit to come.”

Qi Xi’s heart was filled with a little confusion, with some discomfort, she said, “Well… I just didn’t expect that lawyers would be scolded like this…”

“It is precisely because the client is unwilling to face and negotiate this that we have to serve as the intermediaries. Being scolded by the opposition is a part of the day to day duties. Otherwise, why else would we be earning a lawyer’s fee?”

After Gu Yan finished, he glanced at Qi Xi, “And aren’t you good at scolding? You did a good job at the graduation ceremony. Why didn’t you say a word when he was scolding you?”

“…”

After Gu Yan said this, Qi Xi’s embarrassment came back, but she didn’t want to care about her grievances at the moment, “It was an accident. It was an accident! I’m sorry, Gu Yan. I’m sorry. Thank you this time. You are a good person for standing up to me.”

As soon as the words fell, Gu Yan did not seem too happy, “Who was standing up for you? He scolded you so loudly that I couldn’t pay attention to this case file. Don’t be so thankful.”

After he finished, he glanced at Qi Xi’s arm, “You crossed the line. Stay away from me.”

Okay, got it.

Qi Xi immediately followed suit and moved her chair to the side, as far from Gu Yan as she could.

She swore to never violate Gu Yan’s “air space” again.

Author’s Note: Gu Yan is really gentle. I promise. Don’t get too angry yet.

Translator’s Note: Currently have read up to Chapter 38, and I agree with the author. Gu Yan is the typical black belly ML, and when you see how he “courts” Qi Xi, you can’t help but laugh at his misfortune. Qi Xi is probably the most dense female protagonist there is, quite funny!

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YHRKSL CH 4

Translator’s Note:

Still toying around with the official schedule, but as of now, I hope to publish a chapter every Sunday and Thursday (Or Tuesday/Friday). Also, most chapters will be posted in their full length unless they are too long (i.e., Chapter 12 will most likely be post as a split chapter because it has 12,603 words!)

Chapter 4: I’m here to join this family, not tear it apart

“You said that Gu Yan and I could repair our relationship?”

After the lunch, on the first day of joining the job, Qi Xi basically spent the rest of her time dealing with the files and formalities. That night, she returned to her small, shared apartment with Zhao Yanyan.

Since she was angry at her family over the Columbia Law issue, Qi Xi was determined to break away from her parents’ protection and live on her own means. Because Zhao Yanyan was working at a competing law firm nearby, when Zhao Yanyan was looking for a roommate, Qi Xi immediately decided to take up on the offer.

“It’s impossible,” Zhao Yanyan still had sympathy written over her face. “Don’t you realize that Gu Yan is the type who doesn’t talk much? Now he’s talking ruthlessly. Saying it’s impossible for you to be friends. I think you should invest yourself in the drama. Why don’t you focus on your boss? It’s okay to have an ambivalent relationship with your colleagues, just flatter your boss.”

Qi Xi wanted to cry to the sky, the boss is Gu Yan’s sister, and she was perhaps more difficult to manage than Gu Yan himself.

After coming back from lunch, Qi Xi learned the true meaning of “Goddess” from her colleagues. They didn’t call her “Goddess” because of her personality. She simply had the appearance of a “Goddess” but the temperament of a devil.

“She must have told you that she wants to handpick her own interns before choosing new full-time colleagues? Nope, actually, it’s because other trainee lawyers in the firm refuse to join her team. Though Lawyer Gu earns a lot of money, she works overtime, and young people can’t stand that.”

“Before you, she actually recruited other newcomers to the team. After a few days, they applied for a transfer to be with another team.”

“Her energy is beyond the reach of ordinary people. When a newcomer first entered the company, she was gentle and tender, but now she’s boiled and shriveled up after spending only a week with Lawyer Gu. Meanwhile, Lawyer Gu became more radiant. Maybe it’s genetics. Her brother recently entered the company, and after spending a lot of time with her, he still looks good. Do they have some sort of secret to stay so good looking?”

“Qi Xi, don’t worry, you’re beautiful. It might take you a while to turn shriveled and dry.”

Getting this type of comfort is worse than getting no comfort at all!

While repeating the story, Qi Xi looked at Zhao Yanyan in tears, “In short, even if I can’t get along with this team, I can’t be transferred because the other lawyers are full.”

Because Qi Xi was determined to go abroad, it was too late for Qi Xi to look for a job and submit her resume. Most firms were filled, and it was only through sheer luck she was able to pick up the leaks from competing firms to pick up the offer in this company.

After listening to Qi Xi’s words, Zhao Yanyan could only pat Qi Xi’s shoulder, “Sister, there’s nothing to say, just my condolences.”

“…”

“But that’s the case anyway. You might as well be cheeky and have a good relationship with Gu Yan. Gu Yan just entered the industry and is not as treacherous as his sister. Anyway, since you both were classmates for the past 4 years, you should think of friendship! Do what you can. Buy some small gifts for him. Care for him when he is in trouble. Over time, you can repair your relationship.”

That being said, there was a problem.

Though she was classmates with Gu Yan, she knew next to nothing about him except that he was first in every competition and exam.

“I don’t know what his hobbies are or what he likes…”

Zhao Yanyan was still firm as steel, “You’re stupid. You have to have something in common. You can ask his friends or roommates! If it doesn’t work, go to the school forum. Do you have how many people at school were obsessed with him? There were even students from other schools who used to squat down in front of our school to see him. Those girls created an organization called, “Caring for Gu Yan Association.” Why don’t you join that?

“They are all-powerful. They have all sorts of information about him, and even compiled a book called, “The Complete Book of Gu Yan (Gu Yan Daquan)” which includes all of Gu Yan’s hobbies and interests. Occasionally they even update his weekend plans. You would know everything about him, and after being in the organization for one week, you would learn everything about him with your skills!”

There’s such an organization!

When Qi Xi was swiping through the forum, it was as though a whole new world opened for her.

But…

She was dumbfounded when she realized, “The organization asks questions!”

Zhao Yanyan looked indifferent, “Yes, my friend, you don’t seem to know how to function in the real world despite studying in college for 4 years. Some groups ask questions to verify your interest. Most of the questions would be basic things about Gu Yan.”

Zhao Yanyan was right. Though there were 100 questions, the questions covered Gu Yan’s height, weight, and even size of his ears and earlobes. Even the position of the red mole on his neck!

“It’s better for you to do your homework first and then answer the questions. Otherwise you would get too many questions wrong and wouldn’t even be able to be accepted into the group.”

Qi Xi, eager to mend her relationship with Gu Yan, didn’t pay much attention to Zhao Yanyan’s words. Luckily, even if she didn’t know the answer to the first question, she answered instinctively. But perhaps, because she was Gu Yan’s classmate, she received the invitation to join immediately after answering the question.

As soon as she was approved by the group, she went straight to the homepage, asking where she could download Gu Yan Daquan.

As soon as she posted those words, the group owner jumped to share a link with Qi Xi.

There is truly good in this world! Although Gu Yan himself was a difficult person to deal with, his fanbase had a gentle little angel.

“We welcome people who are familiar with and are attracted to Gu Yan, but we hate the kind of people who know nothing about Gu Yan. Who just want to know and fall in love with him because of his face. Not only do we not welcome those kind of people, but we will also strike hard to teach the other part how to respect Gu Yan!”

Yes, yes, yes! Unexpectedly his fans were quite positive, and Qi Xi felt the same way.

She was grateful, and immersed in the joy of being “saved,” quickly downloaded the Gu Yan Daquan from the online disk to study it.

I have to say, the book is beautifully done! It contained a large number of Gu Yan’s pictures, most of which were street shots instead of that taken by professionals. Some of the photos were even blurry, but they still did not ruin Gu Yan’s appearance.

Although Qi Xi has been with Gu Yan for a long time, she never paid close attention to his face. Now when looking at the photos carefully, she realized that he truly was a handsome man.

The more she looked over the basic information, the more she was ashamed of herself. She had answered at least 80% of the questions wrong. For example, Gu Yan’s height was 187 cm instead of 185 cm as she thought. His eyes were a brown color instead of the pure black she thought.

Fortunately I told them I was Gu Yan’s classmate, otherwise I wouldn’t have been able to join the group!

Anyway, with Gu Yan Daquan in her hands, she digested the material eagerly and recited all of Gu Yan’s preferences as if she was reciting knowledge points before an exam.

“His favorite foods are coriander, shiitake mushrooms, and soy products. He likes rice the most, but doesn’t like pasta. He likes sweets and sugar in all his dishes but doesn’t eat spicy foods. He likes chocolate the most and doesn’t like drinking milk. His favorite color is pink, and his least favorite color is black. Favorite fruit is durian, and favorite music is heavy metal rock. He doesn’t like playing sports, but his favorite activity is reading quietly in the library. He likes modern architecture and doesn’t like the outdoors or nature. He especially hates sunbathing. He thinks the meaning of life is not about the road, but rather the fruits of labor. He loves collecting trophies and medals, and he wishes to win each participation.”

The more she read, the more shocked she became. Gu Yan’s preferences are like this? Guess I really don’t know Gu Yan that well… in fact, I don’t know Gu Yan at all!

No wonder Gu Yan was always competing with me for first place… even if we can’t get along between the winning and losing, we could still cherish each other!

Looking at it, Qi Xi found an excellent place to start, “It will be Gu Yan’s birthday in 3 days! I should take advantage of this and give him a gift to show my natural goodness!”

Zhao Yanyan nodded, “Actually, it’s easy to have a good relationship with him. Do what you can. Whatever Gu Yan likes, give it to him. Now that you have Gu Yan Daquan, follow what’s written!”

Now that there’s internal and external friction between them with the graduation speech and the relationship at work, if Qi Xi was unable to flatter Gu Yan, Gu Yan could lead to her ruin. His revenge might be so strong that she wouldn’t be able to hold her head in Rongshi in the future.

Just thinking about the potential consequences, Qi Xi broke out into a cold sweat.

She should do what she first intended to. Immediately racking her brains, she thought about the birthday present she could buy for Gu Yan.

Would it be too expensive to buy? Firstly, she has no money, and second, she can’t appear too eager. What about if it was cheaper? She worried a cheaper present would appear insincere.

“You can buy a present that combines his hobbies and interests. Maybe buy a creative present? It’s best to customize, and after he receives it, he won’t forget,” Zhao Yanyan suggested enthusiastically which browsing through her social media, “And it’s best because it shows the sincerity of your apology.”

Qi Xi thought about it for a long time, but she couldn’t come up with anything until she typed the words, ‘Creative Birthday Gift’ into the Taobao search box. A few things caught her eye.

Jewelry, creative customization, unique and memorable, and show the sincerity of your apology…and it’s in the shape of the medallion, just like what Gu Yan likes!

That’s it!

She decided to place an order with happiness, and even paid extra for express shipping.

But I’m afraid this creative gift would be too little. After all, it didn’t cost much… In the suggested posts in the search engine, she saw an advertisement for a men’s tie. Clicking into to it, Qi Xi simply chose one and paid for the tie as well.

The medallion and tie arrived just in time for Gu Yan’s birthday.

When Qi Xi placed the gift on Gu Yan’s desk, it caused him to be surprised.

He frowned, looking away from the file he was working on, glancing up at Qi Xi cautiously, “What’s this?”

“Gift for you! Gu Yan, happy birthday!”

Sure enough, everyone liked receiving gifts, Gu Yan included.

He was stunned when he heard this, the chilling expression on his face disappeared and showed an expression of relief. He glanced at Qi Xi before turning to look at the package on the desk. His voice softened, “You know when my birthday is?”

“Yes,” she said with a little desperation. “Don’t worry, I will definitely celebrate your birthday every year from now on. We all graduated from the same school. Just like you are my family, your sister is also my family!”

Qi Xi hinted, “Although I wronged you before, I hope you know that I want to be a part of your family as well. I don’t want to break the family… if there’s a fight in the family, and I did something wrong, I should be given a chance to correct it, don’t you think?”

Gu Yan looked at the gift on the desk, thoughtfully. It was as if he was seriously considering the possibility of forgiving Qi Xi.

“Open it up and take a look! The gift was customized according to your preferences, and it also represents my heart for you!”

Though he was asked to unpack the gift, Gu Yan naturally hesitated. He looked away and calmly said, “No need, I’ll unpack it when I get home.” He was about to put Qi Xi’s gift under the table, but as soon as he lifted it, he was a little surprised, “What did you buy that is so heavy?”

“Friendship and family is heavy, this heavy weight represents my heavy heart!”

“There’s no need to buy expensive things,” though his tone was unfriendly, Qi Xi felt as though his attitude eased a little.

With honesty, she said, “It’s not expensive!”

It really wasn’t expensive. I only spent 70 yuan and had free shipping! The medallion was not as expensive as the tie!

“Open it up and look!”

Gu Yan, perhaps annoyed by her, pursed his lips with a glare. He began to unwrap the gift, when the gold colored medallion was in full view, Gu Yan saw the engraved characters… his eyes and expression were completely frozen in shock.

He raised his head, tone full of shock, “What is this?”

“Don’t you like collecting medals? You also like creative and modern designs instead of conventional designs. So, wouldn’t like something like this? You can hang this up like a medal!”

Gu Yan was probably pleasantly surprised at her words. Instead of saying something to her, he stared at the words on the stainless steel and his whole body seemed to become paralyzed.

Following his gaze, Qi Xi turned to the striking words on the medallion.

Sturdy friendship is always with you like stainless steel!

Happy Birthday, Gu Yan!

—From Qi Xi who sincerely apologizes

Though there were only a few words written on the stainless steel, Qi Xi was sincere. She had a hand-painted a cake and a villain asking for forgiveness and gave it to the merchant to engrave it into the stainless steel with the engraving.

In the other box was the pure, pink tie.

“I drew this picture myself!” Qi Xi said enthusiastically, “As for the tie, I also picked out a style and color that I think you will like!”

“…”

Probably faced with this surprise, Gu Yan suddenly lost his language. He was stunned for a long time before looking at Qi Xi, “Why do you think this color is my favorite?”

Because Gu Yan Daquan said so!

It was rare for a man to like pink, if Qi Xi were being honest. But who isn’t like a princess at heart? Gu Yan was probably surprised she knew his secret likes.

Qi Xi’s smile deepened, hiding her secret, “Because the you in my heart likes pink very much!”

Although he liked pink, Gu Yan was never seen wearing any pink before. I’m afraid he has to sequester his likes because of the world. Now that I’ve supported him like this, he must feel moved.

Understanding of each other… isn’t this the best grounds for friendship?

The man stared at the words on the stainless steel, his words a little harsh, “Do you think you and I can have a solid friendship?”

“Can’t you?” Qi Xi said cautiously. “It’s okay even if our friendship is a little weaker….”

Qi Xi thought Gu Yan was too perfunctory. The man answered her with two decisive words.

“Can not.”

Gu Yan turned away from her, shoving her gift under the desk, as if he didn’t want to think about it any longer.

It’s okay if we can’t be friends! If you can’t be a friend, then don’t. We could just have a cordial relationship instead. Qi Xi feels that she still needs to work harder to integrate into this “family.” Otherwise, the Gu siblings would tear her apart left and right. Is this what it feels like? To be surrounded by enemies in all directions.

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YHRKSL CH 3

Translator’s Note:

Though it has a slow start, you will eventually fall in love with the main characters for their simplistic charm. One of the reasons while I enjoy this novel so much is that you fully understand why and how Qi Xi fell in love with Gu Yan (and through the process, you also see her self-pride as well). Hope you are enjoying the story! Do let me know how I am doing in terms of translating the project!

Chapter 3: “Qi Xi, I can never be friends with you.”

Qi Xi and Gu Yan’s eyes met briefly, like a strange tranquility on the eve of a major battle between two enemies.

Qi Xi showed a friendly smile to Gu Yan, and Gu Yan’s handsome face sank almost immediately.

Gu Xuehan hadn’t realize the strange atmosphere, and she still had some emotion from before, “Gu Yan, since Qi Xi is also your classmate, don’t hide it. You have suffered a huge grievance. I didn’t ask you to do this, but resolutely unwilling to sue the other party? What is the matter with you? If you don’t protect your own rights, how could you protect others’ rights as a lawyer? Qi Xi, don’t you think so?”

How could Qi Xi say yes? She looked at Gu Yan with a smile and said, “Well, Gu Yan is a generous and tolerant person who could steer a boat in the prime minister’s presence. Because of this, I actually admired Gu Yan very much during college. Gu Yan’s generosity is what I would like to model after…”

Gu Xuehan frowned, “You can endure such a thing, Gu Yan?”

Ignoring Gu Yan’s cold gaze, Qi Xi pretended to be calm, “Yes Lawyer Gu, I think that although lawyers should be good at offence, they should also learn to yield. I am merciful and my Lord is generous. To be forgiven and to forgive others as he says.”

Gu Xuehan was a little surprised, “You are a devout Buddhist despite being so young?”

Qi Xi was about to clasp her hands together to shout for love and peace. She nodded solemnly, “Yes, I believe in Buddhism. It’s good for your health and mentality, and that makes it easier for you to succeed in the future.”

Gu Xuehan shrugged, “I don’t know what’s happening with you young people. But I’m not that kind of person. A man should be revengeful and strong. As far as I am concerned, even if I owe fifty cents, I have to work hard to get back fifty dollars in a lawsuit.”

“Qi Xi, you don’t have to worry about it. Say the name of the female classmate boldly! I will meet her.”

You’re doing it right now…

Fortunately, a customer call interrupted Gu Xuehan’s questioning. She quickly waved Qi Xi and Gu Yan out of her office.

Gu Yan walked in front of her with a cold face. He didn’t pay attention to Qi Xi’s appearance, so Qi Xi had no choice but to take initiative to attack and grab at Gu Yan’s hand.

“Gu Yan, let’s just let this past go away as simply as the wind…,” Qi Xi looked at Gu Yan eagerly. “Your kindness… I will repay you in the next life by being a bull and a horse. We’ve been classmates in the past 4 years and now will be colleagues in the future. There should be no ongoing feuds. I am willing to bear the crime I committed against you…”

Gu Yan looked at Qi Xi, “How are you planning on bearing it?”

Qi Xi pitifully said, “I am willing to make financial compensations. I will hand over the bulk of my monthly salary. I only need to set aside some money for living expenses.

“The letter from Zhang Jia Liang was too confusing! If you don’t believe me, read it! If you were me, you would misunderstand, too,” Qi Xi said as she pulled up a picture of the damn confession letter on her phone.

Qi Xi decided to push some of the blame onto Gu Yan, “Zhang Jia Liang ended the letter in this way, and you took the initiative to deliver the love letter. Wouldn’t it be easy for me to misunderstand? If you didn’t send the love letter on behalf of him, such a thing wouldn’t have happened. Something’s going on….”

Qi Xi’s suggestion was very clear. Though it was her fault to slander his name, she also wanted to make it clear that Gu Yan was a little negligent when running errands for Zhang Jia Liang.

Gu Yan pursed his lips with an ugly expression, “If I knew he had a love letter hidden in your LSAT book, I would never have handed you the book on his behalf.”

“So you see, you and I are actually Zhang Jia Liang’s victims!”

Very good, very good! First transfer the blame. Everyone will scold Zhang Jia Liang, and then the distance between us will be shortened!

Looking at Gu Yan’s expression, Qi Xi continued, “Actually, I always felt there was no one in the world with a better character than you…”

Gu Yan glanced at Qi Xi’s cellphone with a cold face, and his expression darkened further, “If you believe in my character so much, why did you believe that I wrote that letter? Even if I confess, would I write such a disgusting thing? With words that are so ugly?”

He glanced at Qi Xi, “And you believe in Buddhism? Since when did you believe in it? In the past, when the photography club tried to burn incense for an activity, didn’t you report the club for believing in superstitions?”

“…” Gu Yan is not from that club, how did he know?!

Qi Xi firmly maintained a smile on his face as if she couldn’t stand it any longer, “I just practice Buddhism, but I practice it very religiously.”

“Religiously?”

Qi Xi nodded, “Yes, very pious.”

Gu Yan glanced at Qi Xi without a smile, “Okay, my sister said yesterday that a newbie was coming today. She wanted us to go and have lunch together, so let me go and tell her to pick a vegetarian restaurant. You can’t eat meat.”

“…”

Qi Xi couldn’t control her expression this time. Her facial features were twisted together, “Gu Yan, you should know, humans have evolved to the top of the food chain, isn’t it just to eat meat? I just thought about it, Gu Xuehan told us that a combination of meat and vegetables is part of having a healthy diet. In order to have a healthy body to work for your sister, I decided to let go of my obsession and still eat meat.”

Gu Yan stared at her coldly, “You are so considerate.”

“I know I deserve to die based on what happened before, and that it is all my fault, but it was mainly because I accidentally overheard you and some girl that day. When that girl confessed to you, you rejected her and I heard you say that you wanted to confess to a girl you liked. So my misunderstanding deepened,” Qi Xi cautiously said, “So… did you succeed in your confession afterwards?”

Qi Xi regretted even mentioning the words because Gu Yan’s expression darkened further. The man gave her a stern expression before gnashing out a, “No.”

Qi Xi felt extremely regretful about the stupid question. She didn’t have to think about it. After giving such a passionate speech at the graduation ceremony, who would dare to agree to Gu Yan’s confession?

This not only ruined Gu Yan’s reputation, but it also ruined his marriage!

The feud between Gu Yan and her was not so easy to solve.

Gu Yan pursed his lips, “Qi Xi, work is not about reminiscing the past. I’m very busy, so please don’t waste my time. Find your own desk and stay away from me.”

Gu Yan dropped these words and walked to his desk with a cold expression.

Soon, Qi Xi walked towards Gu Yan, one step at a time.

Gu Yan looked uncomfortable, “I told you not to follow me.”

Qi Xi sneered before sitting down right next to him, “The only empty seat is the one next to you. HR arranged for me to sit here.”

Because a lot of new people were recruited to the company recently, space was quite tight. The last few desks and chairs purchased by the company were relatively compact. There were no partitions between the workstations, and if you moved just a little, you would bump into your deskmate.

The distance between Qi Xi and Gu Yan was similar to the distance shared between students using the same table in school. Her voice was a little dry and weak, “I’m sorry. I can only stay this far from you at most. I’ll pay attention, and once there is another vacancy, I’ll move out immediately to get out of your sight.”

Gu Yan grimaced, looking as though he had a little trouble breathing, but he didn’t say anything. He just pursed his lips before looking down at his dossier.

Although they were classmates for 4 years, Qi Xi never sat so close to Gu Yan before. She was close enough to observe Gu Yan’s profile closely.

The incandescent light in the office area hit his face whilst passing through his fine hair. It was just common office ceiling lighting, but it gave Qi Xi an illusion that Gu Yan was being illuminated by a thousand beams of light.

His facial features were sharp and handsome even if his temperament was serious and cold. His eyes were charming as well. Occasionally when he looked up at people with his slightly raised eyes… he was able to hook them elusively.

Hook is probably not the right word to use, but after Qi Xi observed Gu Yan some more, she realized she had no better words to describe his eyes. Though he was a recent graduate of Rongda Law School, his face and brain were his real accomplishments.

Although her heart was bitter, Qi Xi had to recognize Gu Yan’s strengths. Why couldn’t she succeed in surpassing Gu Yan?

If you want to be a star, you should stop staring at Gu Yan in the office. In the future, when you walk in the legal circle, you should have one less competitor.

“Let’s go! Let’s eat.”

Fortunately, it was finally noon. Gu Xuehan ended the call and took Qi Xi and Gu Yan to a nearby Huai Yang restaurant with a good ambiance.

After leaving work, Gu Xuehan was a little less stiff and she returned to her usual elegance. She slowly introduced Qi Xi to the situation at the company, “In short, this is the situation. You have passed all your judicial exams, so the first year in the firm will be your certified internship period. You can officially practice independently after this period ends. I usually take commercial cases, but as a trainee lawyer, I encourage you to pick up every case you can, even civil cases. I will also help you.”

Gu Xuehan smiled, “After all, you have just graduated, so you may still be confused. In fact, you may not known which subdivision interests you, so you have to do all kinds of cases before you finally choose. Just as lawyers, interns can also handle small cases. Compared with commercial cases, civil cases handle life-related disputes. They are closer to reality, and you may be able to connect with the disputes which makes it easy to get started with.”

When she said this, she glanced at Qi Xi, “Gu Yan joined the company before you, and you are also classmates. In short, if you have any questions in the future, you can ask him.”

Qi Xi smiled, “Okay, thank you Lawyer Gu. I will learn from Gu Yan! He has always been my role model since we were in school. He was always number 1, and I always follow him. As second place, it really seemed as though Gu Yan was guiding me forward!”

It’s a pity that Qi Xi’s words were destined to be a one-man show. Gu Yan was drinking his tea coolly on the side, and he had no plans to save her face.

Even Gu Xuehan couldn’t bear to see this. Unfortunately, just as she was about to take Gu Yan’s name, Gu Yan’s phone rang.

The man pursed his lips and stood up, “It’s a call from a client who consulted out law firm’s business before. I’ll answer it.”

As soon as Gu Yan left, Gu Xuehan showed an uncomfortable expression. She looked over at Qi Xi, “Don’t pay attention to him. It may be because he was slandered recently, and your words may have stimulated him. That’s why he looked so bored.”

Why do you have to go back to this topic again?!?!

Compared to Gu Yan, it seemed as though Gu Yan’s sister was more difficult to handle. After all, Gu Yan didn’t take any action over the matter, but Gu Xuehan seemed to want to solve the matter at hand.

Gu Xuehan continued to chase after information, “So, who is that girl? Can the video be found?”

Qi Xi suppressed the urge to run away, and pretended to calmly explain, “Actually, when the girl at the graduation ceremony was speaking, I happened to be in the toilet. When I came back, she was already finished speaking. Later, I saw that the video was deleted. So, I really don’t know what happened.”

“Wasn’t the speech quite long? You didn’t hear it? You were in the toilet the entire time?”

Qi Xi resisted the urge to collapse, “I was constipated all day.”

Gu Xuehan was probably also taken aback by Qi Xi’s answer. After a moment, she removed the snowflake in front of Qi Xi and replaced it with a large pot of a vegetable salad, “Lawyers always lead a sedentary life, yet you chose this profession. You’re still young. Pay more attention to your body. You should be a vegetarian for today’s meal.”

“…”

Unexpectedly, with her own efforts, Qi Xi finally succeeded in becoming a vegetarian.

Gu Xuehan ordered a few more vegetarian dishes, and then furrowed her brows, moving back to the topic of work, “The overall atmosphere in the company is nice. Gu Yan may be a more cold than usual, but I will try to speak to him. Though, he actually is quite rebellious.”

Gu Yan, rebellious?

Since when was Gu Yan rebellious? Are all top rankers rebellious?

Seeing Qi Xi’s doubt, Gu Xuehan shrugged, “When I first became a partner, I persuaded him to join the company after graduation, but he wanted to study in the US afterwards. So, I respected his decision. But after applying to such a good school, he turned around and told me that he wasn’t planning on going abroad, that he preferred to work in the company. I wondered how such a stable person could make such an impulsive decision. That too, regarding his career. So, I figured it’s just him rebelling.”

Listening to this, Qi Xi also was puzzled, especially seeing that Gu Yan’s family conditions are not as bad as hers. His sister had a good income, and she seemed to respect and support him. He would not have stopped him decision to study abroad because of financial problems.

A little curious, Qi Xi asked, “What school did Gu Yan get the offer from? Was he planning on getting a JD or an LLM?”

“JD at Columbia Law.”

What kind of evil is this? Gu Yan was originally going to Columbia University to study for a JD?

Luckily I didn’t go. Otherwise, he would’ve beaten me for another three years in a foreign country after he beat be for four years here.

She wasn’t able to rejoice for long. Qi Xi suddenly remembered that Gu Yan didn’t go, and that the two of them ended up in the same law firm in the same team.

Since Shengyu, He Shengliang?**

It was a fucking sad story.

“He doesn’t seem to care about others lately, so don’t worry about it. He really seems to be in the decline recently. He said if things go well, he would introduce his girlfriend in a few days, but now it has changed,” Gu Xuehan said sadly. “Maybe he was dumped, and after being slandered, it caused him to go through a huge personality change.”

Qi Xi felt it was her fault for Gu Yan’s failure to confess and have no love in his life. He might have lost all interest in everything as a result of this, maybe even holding himself responsible for everything.

Without even talking more, she realized that this was sadder than just being dumped.

Qi Xi felt guilty, so she took the initiative to say, “Lawyer Gu, do your best to arrange any type of work for me. I will do more! Let Gu Yan relax to be able to sort his emotions a little more.”

Gu Xuehan pursed her lips, “You just need to find the girl who slandered him as soon as possible. Let him vent his anger at any rate. It’s not good for him to hold it all day.”

“…”

Qi Xi’s guilt disappeared without a trace, and her expression became very stiff. Fortunately at this time, Gu Yan finally answered the phone and turned back. Gu Xuehan also turned the topic back to work as she spoke to Qi Xi and Gu Yan, giving them some tips as newcomers.

The lunch did not last long because Gu Xuehan was very busy with another case in another district in the afternoon. She briefly explained, and didn’t even have the time to eat dessert. So, she paid the order and left, leaving only Qi Xi and Gu Yan at the table.

Gu Yan was still ignoring herself, but Qi Xi wanted to let go of the past, so she took the initiative to find a common topic with a warm face, “You also applied to Columbia Law for a JD? Me too…”

As a result, before Qi Xi could finish her words, Gu Yan interrupted her with an abnormal outburst, “Who told you?”

“Your sister,” Qi Xi said curiously. “What happened with you? I decided to work because my family didn’t support me, and I didn’t have the money to study abroad. Why did you give up the offer? It’s a pity.”

Gu Yan frowned, obviously not wanting to discuss the issue further, “I suddenly didn’t want to go.”

Can you be so willful?

But it’s not a big deal, Qi Xi’s only concern is, “Then you see, we’ll be colleagues in the future, or perhaps partners of a team. I admit my mistakes from the past, but I hope in the future you will give me the chance to make up for it. Could we still be friends?”

In the end, she didn’t know what happened. Gu Yan’s expression could only be previously described as indifference, but now looking at him, he gnashed his teeth in a complicated manner.

“Qi Xi, I can never be friends with you.”

After Gu Yan finished speaking, he stood up with a cold face.

I still haven’t finished dessert yet…

Previous Chapter | Table of Contents | Next Chapter

Translator’s Note:

**”Since Shengyu, He Shengliang?”

A phrase used in the “The Romance of Three Kingdoms” text that can be translated loosely as, “Since God gave birth to me, Zhou Yu, why did he give birth to Zhuge Liang?” The phrase essentially means, “Why did you [God] create a person who’s talent is much better than me? Who can suppress me in all aspects. Can’t I achieve something?”

Qi Xi laments how Gu Yan has won every battle they had ever fought.

Author’s Note: LLM is Master of Laws where the schooling system is shorter. Typically 1-2 years. It’s gold-plated endeavor for overseas students, and you need a law degree to apply. Generally, this degree is the less taken path for US students.

YHRKSL CH 2

Translator’s Note: Full respect to translators! The first chapter took approximately 3 hours to fully translate. Most time consuming part is to figure out what the MTL is trying to convey without trying to add my own thoughts. Updates will be slow (huge word of warning) as I am a student.

Also, I’m a medical student, not a law student. So the translation for the law heavy cases will be rough. Apologies before hand!

As for the new jjwxc guidelines about translations, no fear! This will not be password protected. I just enjoyed the story and wanted to share it with as many people as I could. If you are enjoying the story, please try and support the author!

Chapter 2: It’s not that enemies don’t get together and take a walk on Huangquan Road

Qi Xi couldn’t remember how the graduation ceremony ended on such pins and needles. The following night, after graduating and leaving the school, she was still a bit dazed about what happened.

Zhao Yanyan sat across from Qi Xi. As well as being her friend and classmate, she was also Qi Xi’s roommate. She always believed in the ‘mean.’ As such, her grades will always remain in the middle and upper-middle. She is competitive, but she still chose to take the civil service exam without pomp. Now that she successfully finished, she was just waiting for graduation before beginning her new job at court.

As a result, despite Qi Xi’s passionate speech, there was no sadness in the meal between them. Rather, Zhao Yanyan was excited.

“Qi Xi, I saw a link for the video of your speech at the graduation ceremony!”

Qi Xi drank her juice reluctantly, “Where’s the link? Send it to me.”

“Are you going to report the post again so the video is deleted?”

“What else can I do? Wait for Gu Yan to sue me for infringing and slandering his reputation?” Qi Xi’s head hurt when she thought of the mess. “My brain slipped into the waters, and it is my mistake for speaking on an impulse. I am willing to remedy all the costs, take responsibility and make amends.”

In fact, Qi Xi wanted to apologize to Gu Yan after the incident, but who knew Gu Yan would disappear after the graduation ceremony? She couldn’t find him, so she could only apologize to him on WeChat.

Because she wasn’t able to get Gu Yan’s WeChat, she found Zhang Jia Liang, the initiator of it all, on WeChat in anger. As a result, when questioned, Zhang Jia Liang, the stranger man, had a somewhat reasonable answer.

“Why should Gu Yan bring the confession letter to you? Because I’m shy and introverted! I have liked you for a long time, and I am afraid to confess. I am afraid that if I look at you one more time, my heart will be beaten. I saw the LSAT book you forgot in the library, and immediately, I thought of expressing my emotions in a romantic and and classical way. I wrote the letter, and because Gu Yan happened to pass by, I had him bring it to you. It’s like that in the movies, right? If boys and girls communicated directly, it wouldn’t be romantic. There’s always a middleman to help communicate.

“As for the signature, I’m a rather humorous person. In order to make you feel as though you are riding a rollercoaster, I thought of joking with you. You would be lost when you see that Gu Yan confesses to you, and after turning the letter and seeing my name, you would be lost in ecstasy!”

Ecstasy your foot! The devil would like you! Even liking Gu Yan is better than liking a freak like you!

Looking back on it now, Qi Xi still feels that she is out of breath.

Zhao Yanyan patted Qi Xi’s head sympathetically, “To be honest, Gu Yan didn’t reply because you are already very disciplined. If you were an ordinary person, he might’ve beaten you!”

“He wouldn’t beat me,” Qi Xi said with lingering fear. “Isn’t he a Muay Thai practitioner? One single punch, even if he isn’t using all his strength, would cause a second degree injury. It’s enough to be sentenced for intentional injury on another, and it would be a criminal case. Even if you want to be a lawyer in the future, your license would be revoked.”

…

But even after saying that, Qi Xi also knew that Gu Yan’s self-cultivation was surprisingly good.

Although she posted an official apology statement letter on the school forum and Weibo, she made up a rumor to refute the original speech, her work was still fruitless. Both methods didn’t cause much heat…

She really committed an unforgiveable death penalty against Gu Yan. Gu Yan can do whatever he wants. It is reasonable even if she is prosecuted. And Qi Xi is willing to bear all legal consequences.

However, Gu Yan didn’t do anything. He didn’t accept the apology, and he didn’t scold her. He didn’t prosecute her, and he didn’t even take the initiative to clarify those rumors.

But how can I face Gu Yan in the future?

Apart from not seeing him ever again in the future, Qi Xi had no better plan.

She definitely fell to the extreme and to the absolute rock-bottom with the plan, but it was also the method in which she would be extremely peaceful.

She took another sip of her juice in distress when an email reminder came on her phone.

Ding.

Qi Xi glanced reluctantly at the header message of “Congratulations.” The subject of the email caused a sudden adrenaline rush to her heart.

This is an acceptance letter from Columbia University Law School!

After Qi Xi’s trembling hands finally clicked on the email to confirm the content, she couldn’t help but jump from the chair.

“Zhao Yanyan, I was accepted into Columbia Law School for my JD!”

Only law school students know the prestige of Columbia Law School. Zhao Yanyan’s eyes brightened immediately, “Oh my god, Qi Xi! You are too fierce! Let me tell you, your LSAT score is very high! As high as the sky. Your GPA is also high, and you have passed the domestic judicial exams. You must do it! Columbia University! You can go to New York!”

When ranking American law schools, in addition to Harvard, Yale, Stanford Law Schools, Columbia Law is also no less. At Harvard/Yale/Stanford, it is uncommon to see fresh graduates with no relevant legal work/experience be admitted. Therefore, Qi Xi thought it best to apply to Columbia.

And when she went to the US, she wouldn’t have to face Gu Yan. After all, in a prior employment survey they filled out, Qi Xi remembered that Gu Yan filled out he would directly enter a law firm post graduation.

It’s just that when Qi Xi came home with a bright vision for her future to tell her father the shocking good news, she did not get congratulations or praise.

Qi Rui Ming was not only unhappy, but also furious, “Didn’t you agree to take the civil service exam after graduation? You secretly took the LSAT? Secretly applied to school?”

“But dad….”

“Didn’t you promise me that you would find a stable 9-to-5 job in the civil service? I know that the civil service exam is tough, but Dad doesn’t necessarily want you to work in public security law. If you don’t pass the exam, I am here. Knowing people in Rongshi Daily, it’s not a problem to have you be the editor of the legal publication department. It’s usually very easy. You just review and review, and wait for the public exam next year to try again.”

It’s the same old words again.

Qi Xi suppressed the discomfort in her heart and argued with reason, “But I want to be a lawyer. If I can graduate from Columbia Law with a JD, whether I work in the US or in China, I will be more competitive in the law firm. Even if my income will not be high, and I will be poor, in terms of employment, I could have better choices.”

Qi Rui Ming didn’t give Qi Xi a chance to finish her speech, so he interrupted her again, this time with a bit more sincerity in his voice, “Xi Xi, you are a girl, girls don’t have to be so tired, take it easy, find a stable and decent 9-to-5 job, find a better person to marry in the future, and in the future, help the next generation as a housewife. Look at your mother, just like you and me, she graduated from Rongda Law School. Isn’t her life easy and happy? What’s wrong with it?

Qi Rui Ming frowned, “As for being a lawyer, that’s what boys do. Do you know how stressful working in a law firm is? I am a veteran lawyer, and I really don’t want you to be so tired. Look at the top partners in the law firm. How many of them are women? Becoming a lawyer is not as easy as you think. You also need to socialize and drink. You need to make connections. Look at how busy your father is. As a girl, do you want to live this kind of life?”

He persuasively said, “You are still young, once you become a lawyer, you will do one thing and hate another thing. Not to mention, women themselves are worse than men in terms of legal logical thinking. See for yourself, you have finished your undergraduate law education. Since beginning, when did you ever surpass Gu Yan in your class? Wasn’t he always number 1? If it’s like this in school, it will only be worse when you enter society and the workplace.

“There are a lot of excellent male lawyers out there, more than what you met in school. Your character is too competitive and hard. Once you enter the law firm, your mentality will only worsen. With your temperament, the future of your marriage will not be too happy. I’m speaking for your own good.”

Qi Rui Ming played hard and soft, before finally bringing out what he wanted to express.

“Anyway, if you’re going to America, I won’t pay.”

At the beginning, her father clearly stated that as long as she was admitted to Columbia Law School, he would pay for her education.

“But dad, you said at the time—,” 

“First, girls don’t need so much education. Your bachelor’s degree is enough. Second, I don’t have that much money. School tuition in America is high, and the cost of living in New York is also high. You know dad doesn’t have much money. Lawyers don’t make as much money as you think. It’s not easy for me, and I still have case materials to prepare late at night.”

Qi Rui Ming’s attitude was very firm. After finishing speaking, he glanced angrily towards Qi Xi’s mother, Xi Win, who was on the side, “You take care of your daughter! Girls are so ignorant!”

Qi Xi finally understood.

In fact, from the beginning it seemed Qi Rui Ming never planned on paying for her education in the US. He agreed because he felt she would not apply for Columbia Law…

I can…

Even though her father was not a successful lawyer, he was a partner in a small law firm. There was no problem in terms of income for him to support her education. She is an only child, too, so there are no other siblings for them to spend money on.

Qi Xi’s heart was full of grievances and discomfort. As soon as her father left, she turned to her mother to complain, “He just looks down on girls. If I were a son who was accepted into Columbia Law, he would send me to America even if he had to break pots and sell the iron…”

Xi Wen’s voice was gentle and helpless, “Xi Xi, don’t trouble your father. He’s also under a lot of work pressure. It’s useless to blame me. If I had a job, your father wouldn’t be so tired and you would have money for your studies. But your father’s words make sense. It’s a blessing for girls to be safe and secure.”

Qi Xi slammed the door and threw herself on the bed, not wanting to listen to the clichés from her parents. 

Most of the top law schools in the US are private schools with expensive tuition. International students like Qi Xi should be thankful to be admitted. How could they expect any scholarships? And they couldn’t apply for student loans like American students.

Her father’s attitude made Qi Xi completely give up… her JD dream was about to be dashed.

“So you received such a good offer, but you can’t go?”

Qi Xi stayed at home for two weeks before finally reluctantly accepting this painful reality. She asked Zhao Yanyan to come out for dinner.

Facing Zhao Yanyan’s question, Qi Xi nodded listlessly, “If you don’t have money, you have no right to speak.”

“Then what do you want to do? Go to the editorial department of the legal publication arranged by your father?”

“I won’t go,” Q Xi’s face was indomitable. She was a person who refused to admit defeat. “I urgently submitted by resume, and now I received an offer from a competing firm. Anyway, I can’t follow my dad’s wishes. He doesn’t like me as a lawyer, and I just want to be a lawyer. I received an offer from Columbia Law right after my undergraduate studies. With two years of work, I will have a better resume, and I might apply to a better school. Earn money for yourself.”

Zhao Yanyan still looked on with admiration, “Qi Xi, you are very hateful you know? It’s either an offer from Columbia Law or an offer from a co-op institute. In your world, it’s like buying a bunch of spring onions when going out. You really are able to do what you want.”

The job offer is from a very good company in Rongshi. The competition is quite fierce, and being hired by a co-op is also good news. But Qi Xi still couldn’t help but feel anxious, “Will Gu Yan also be in this company?”

“No, no, don’t worry,” Zhao Yanyan lowered her voice, saying, “As per the latest news, I heard that Gu Yan suddenly decided to go to the US for further studies. He doesn’t plan to work in the country. You also planned to go to America before, but I was afraid that you would be under further stress, so I didn’t tell you at the time.”

Qi Xi felt a little guilty, “Is it because I slandered his name during the graduation ceremony? Is he so sad that he plans to leave the country?”

“No, he changed his mind about going abroad before the graduation.”

Ah, such a good thing?!?

Qi Xi’s gloomy heart suddenly became warmer as the clouds escaped, revealing the sun. “God is helping me, too! Now, he’s going to the US while I stay in the country. In the future, our well water won’t be mixed into the river water, and we won’t have to see each other again in this lifetime!”

Although she was envious of Gu Yan going abroad for higher studies, Qi Xi quickly cheered up.

After all, she committed a monstrous crime against Gu Yan, and this creditor traveling far and wide was not a bad thing at all.

With this relief, Qi Xi soon went to the company to report.

“Because you applied for the job late, even though your resume is otherwise excellent in all aspects I will have to assign you to one of our newer female partners, Gu Xuehan since the senior most partners have full teams. Gu Xuehan was recently promoted as partner.”

The HR member explained to Qi Xi as she visited the firm, “But Partner Gu is very young and energetic. She’s the youngest member to be promoted as partner, and has just newly formed her team. You can follow along and work hard as you will be the core member of her team in the future. Partner Gu will catch up with you later to chat.”

Qi Xi checked Gu Xuehan’s information on the Internet. She is also a top student who graduated from Rongda Law School. Said to have risen with unparalleled speed as partner, she is both beautiful and capable. At first glance, she is a strong woman who is resolute, and the income she generated in the first year has already topped the annual revenue stream in the company. Several legal circles are very optimistic about her, thinking she may be the strongest rising star in the industry, both in terms of competition and cooperation.

“I see that in many forums, Lawyer Gu is known as the New Generation Goddess in the legal world,” Qi Xi said with a smile, “If I can work with her, I will definitely learn a lot of new things.”

She wasn’t sure if the atmosphere in the company was serious, but her compliment made the other colleagues in the personnel administration stunned, “That’s right, following her you will definitely learn a lot.”

“Come in!”

Following the words from her colleagues, Qi Xi tidied up her appearance, and before she had the time to think about it, she finally walked into Gu Xuehan’s office in a state of apprehension and nervousness.

The she saw the strong visual impact… Gu Xuehan looked even better in person compared to the photos on the law firm’s official website, wearing a high-end suit. She looked indifferent and elegant. She doesn’t know if it’s because she naturally favored Gu Xuehan, but Qi Xi felt as though she saw some familiar shadows in Gu Xuehan’s eyebrows, and this made her feel naturally closer to Gu Xuehan.

It’s no wonder she is called ‘Goddess’ Gu Xuehan. Qi Xi feels that her appearance and temperament is nothing less than that of ‘Goddess.’

Seeing Qi Xi’s face, Gu Xuehan was also a little surprised. She smiled, “It seems like my team is the most visually appealing in the company. Qi Xi, welcome to the company!”

Qi Xi involuntarily sat up straighter. She was still somewhat nervous as she entered the company straight from school.

“Although I have a lot of work, my goal is to have a small, yet skilled team. Previously, most of the projects were completed by a group of lawyers without having a formal mentor. This time, I want to set up a team with two newcomers. Beside you, the other newcomer is a boy, my younger brother. But you can rest assure, I will never show favoritism when it comes to business or money distribution.

So my future colleague is the boss’s younger brother? It’s time to have a good relationship.

Qi Xi was thinking about how to get close with her future colleague, when she heard Gu Xuehan continue.

“My brother and you should be classmates. Both of you are graduates of Rongda Law School this year.”

Being classmates is good. She has a good relationship with all her male classmates in the class with the exception of Zhang Jia Liang and Gu Yan. But Zhang Jia Liang had returned to his hometown to work and Gu Yan had gone abroad.

Was it Gu Xuehan’s younger brother or perhaps cousin? If the surname is Gu, maybe it is Gu Cheng or Gu Yimin?

She shared a good relationship with both of them. They were at least normal classmates without any bad blood spilled between them.

Qi Xi calmed down as she thought about working with her old classmates. She is now confident that her future career life would be brilliant and filled with happiness.

“In the first few days, you should get used to assisting and helping out with small tasks, and then after warming up, you can start with small cases. My brother went to court to file a case. When he comes back, I invite you to a simple welcome meal with him.”

Gu Xuehan took a sip of water and then looked at Qi Xi with elegance, “I have something I want to ask you about your warm-up case.”

Qi Xi stood up immediately, “I don’t mind, just say it!”

“You don’t need to be nervous, it’s just a personal matter,” Gu Xuehan smiled, “Since you and my brother are in the same school, do you know who slandered him at the graduation ceremony?”

…

Qi Xi was stunned.

Is this what I think it means?

She stared at Gu Xuehan, feeling as though she needed to be rescued soon.

Gu Xuehan lowered her head and took a sip of water. She didn’t notice Qi Xi’s stiffness. Her voice was cold, “As a sister and lawyer, I must defend my brother’s rights.”

When Gu Xuehan said this, she glanced at Qi Xi again, her red lips slightly parted, “Forgot to mention, my brother is Gu Yan, your future teammate. Are you familiar with him?”

“…” Qi Xi was sure that she could declare her mission as an absolute failure. It was best to just pull her out and cremate her directly.

Gu Yan? Shouldn’t Gu Yan be abroad?

Before Qi Xi could digest her emotions, she heard the elegant and cold Gu Xuehan indifferently say, “Now, go and find out the name, ID number, and contact number of this girl.”

“This is the first job I give to you, so complete it well with due diligence. I heard many people watched a video recording of the speech at the time, but when I tried to find it, someone reported the video and had it deleted. You are responsible for finding the video as a part of collecting the evidence.”

Gu Xuehan had a straight forward and decisive personality. She quickly explained her first assignment, “This is your first case. Consider it a warm up.”

“…” Qi Xi didn’t know what to do except force a smile on her face.

It was at this moment the door to the office was pushed open. A face she never hoped to see again reappeared in front of her at the door…

“The case has been filed. The other party involved in the dispute said the meeting in the afternoon needs to be rescheduled.”

“Gu Yan, you came just in time. Let me introduce you to another member on the team. She’s your classmate, Qi Xi.”

“…”

Qi Xi’s heart wanted to cry.

At this moment, she really… If not for us enemies of being together, I would have taken a walk on Huangquan Road.

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Author’s Note: JD means Juris Doctor or Doctor of Law in the US. You need to complete an undergraduate degree (can be with an unrelated major) before you apply to law school because there is no law undergraduate program in the US. For international students, this means they would apply to law school only after completing their undergraduate degree. You can apply after graduation. The schooling system is generally 3 years, and according to the Study Abroad Center of the Ministry of Education (in China), the JD is equivalent to getting a master’s degree after returning to China.

YHRKSL CH 1

Translator’s Note:

Hello! Came across this novel as I absolutely love Ye Feiran’s work. Though I am not a native speaker of Chinese, I thought of using MTL (with a few edits to help with the flow) to bring this wonderful story. It’s currently on-going; however, as with most of Ye Feiran’s work, it should be completed in the next 1-2 months! 

Please let me know if there are any edits/things I translated incorrectly, and I will fix them! Enjoy this story!

Chapter 1: Gu Yan, you have the right to have a crush, but to confess like this is a crime!

The scorching sun in June was like a fire, and there was a loud cicada chirping from the tress outside the gymnasium window. Qi Xi sat backstage, feeling a mixture of nervousness, melancholy, and daze.

The graduation ceremony is about to begin, and soon, she would speak as Rongda Law School’s most outstanding graduate representative.

Her four-year law school stint was coming to an end, and truly speaking, as the most beautiful and top-student of law school, Qi Xi’s university life could only be described as “smooth sailing.” The only thing that caused her dissatisfaction was her unpleasant rival, Gu Yan.

As her classmate for the past 4 years, Gu Yan stole countless opportunities and awards from Qi Xi. 

Over the 4 years, Qi Xi, who obsessively studied like a hermit, was still unable to score higher than Gu Yan on any exam… not even once.

Gu Yan was always number 1, and she was always number 2.

Sometimes, she lost by only a few points, but who remembers second place?

Perhaps the most unacceptable thing for Qi Xi was that Gu Yan won almost effortlessly each time. Unlike Qi Xi who gave up all entertainment and social interaction, this man participated in everything. Law school activities, whether it was a debate or competition, basketball game, moot court, or legal aid.

He brightly shined on every stage, earning the attention and praise of girls with his impeccable face and figure… polluting Qi Xi’s space with his constant spiritual presence.

He was a master of time… perfect in almost all fields, defeating her with ease while she struggled.

Knowing she tried her best and still lost to Gu Yan made Qi Xi frustrated, and as time passed, her frustration turned to anger.

She understood that Gu Yan had done nothing wrong. The two of them didn’t even interact as much, but she couldn’t help but hate him over the years.

However, instead of Gu Yan, she was selected as the outstanding representative to speak on behalf of the graduates.

Feeling a rush of pleasure as though she won a city, Qi Xi silently recited her speech again. But as she thought about it, she called her father, Qi Rui Ming.

“Dad, where have you been? The graduation ceremony will begin later…”

Just before she finished speaking, Qi Rui Ming interrupted her, “What’s the matter? Dad still has to go to intermediate city court. I have to be there right away…”

Dad really forgot!

Qi Xi collapsed a little, “Dad, today is my graduation ceremony, you said you would come! As the student representative, I will be in—,”

Qi Rui Ming, on the other end of the phone line, obviously did not take this matter seriously. He interrupted Qi Xi, casually coaxing, “Xi Xi, Dad is too busy. My client’s court trial can’t be delayed. Not to mention so many of your classmates came from distant places. Not many parents would have come to the graduation ceremony. You can find someone to take a photo, and then you can send it to me. Let’s not talk about it anymore. Will hang up.”

Qi Rui Ming didn’t even give Qi Xi a chance to finish her sentence and just hung up the call in his usual manner.

Indeed, there are very few parents who came today for the graduation ceremony, but the honor of being student speaker at a graduation ceremony was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

And Qi Rui Ming hung up on her like usual… She stared at the speech in her hands, feeling a little irritable.

Although this speech was originally drafted by Qi Xi, it was revised 3-4 times by her counselor, and thus, it long lost the essence of what Qi Xi originally wanted to say.

It was soulless and righteous.

But, in order to be able to speak on stage, Qi Xi accepted all these changes.

But now, as she practices reciting the last paragraph of the speech, she noticed some incoherence. And her dissatisfaction deepened, especially after her father hung up on her.

Noticing it was getting late, Qi Xi stood, wanting to find her counselor to discuss whether they could add a paragraph to make the transition smoother.

Qi Xi found the counselor backstage, chatting with a teacher from the Academic Affairs Office. His back was facing her.

“Time flies do fast! Another class is about to graduate. Who will speak at this year’s graduation ceremony?”

“It’s Qi Xi.”

“Qi Xi? The second place? Why didn’t you find Gu Yan? Isn’t he better?”

When she heard they were talking about her, Qi Xi’s froze. She was always curious about the reason the counselor found her, initially thinking she was more hardworking and tenacious as a student.

Unexpectedly, Qi Xi found otherwise—

“Gu Yan is better, handsome, stable, and there are many girls in law school. His speech would have been positively received by the audience. But what can be done? He is unwilling to cooperate with the revision of the speech, saying that if he was to speak, it must be completely respecting his wishes. He didn’t accept his speech to be revised.”

The teacher at the Academic Affairs Office laughed, “No way, boys are more individualistic. The stronger their personality, the stronger their ability. Although girls are very obedient, they have no ability to innovate or lead others.”

The counselor couldn’t help but sigh, “Actually, at such a big event like a graduation ceremony, boys’ mentality is more stable. Qi Xi is a girl. I’m worried and nervous that I will be played.”

Soon after, the counselor’s tone became relaxed, “But, she’s a girl. Qi Xi is very obedient. She changed everything I asked for. I revised the final draft several times, and even asked her to practice reciting it in advance. Normally, there would be no problems, but the chiefs of the academy are coming today, so nothing can go wrong.”

The two quickly chatted about something else, but Qi Xi had cold hands and feet, not listening to a single word soon after.

Instead of looking for the counselor, she held the speech in her hand, walking backstage in silence.

It turned out that she received the outstanding student speaker recognition because Gu Yan didn’t want it himself.

Gu Yan, Gu Yan, Gu Yan is everywhere! Everyone likes Gu Yan!

Even on her way to the gym to practice rehearsing some more, Qi Xi accidentally came across a scene of a girl confessing to Gu Yan.

“Sorry, I don’t like you. I already have someone I like. I’m planning on confessing to her today, so you have no chance.”

The girl had confessed despite being nervous. She humbly asked Gu Yan for a chance, but Gu Yan replied with such indifference. He hadn’t seen Qi Xi, but after refusing the girl, he turned around and left. Polite yet distant. Not giving the girl any chance to hope for more.

How can such a ruthless man be liked by others? Someone who spoke with such stinkiness. Do he deserve to be liked by others?

At this moment, combined with knowing she had picked up Gu Yan’s leftovers as student speaker, Qi Xi’s anger towards Gu Yan almost reached it’s peak.

She sincerely hoped the girl Gu Yan planned to confess to would ruthlessly reject him!

“Qi Xi.”

Because Qi Xi was busy scolding Gu Yan internally, the moment she heard his voice, she became startled.

She raised her head slowly, and indeed, it was Gu Yan standing before her.

Truly speaking, Gu Yan’s looks were one in a thousand. Tall stature, excellent proportions, the image of sunshine and fresh grass no matter where he is. Even now, he is bathed in the fine sunlight which passed through the gymnasium ceiling. In the midst of the light and shadows, she could see his face. A unique mixture of innocence and maturity. It was no accident indeed. He was a handsome man.

If he smiled, surely, many girls would go weak.

Even if she hadn’t paid much attention to it before, she knew that Gu Yan was photographed many times before while shopping outside. In law school, he could be misunderstood as a thief of hearts. A crime worthy of being sent to the police!

Qi Xi’s heart jumped nervously as Gu Yan’s lips pursed lightly. She glared at him with a bit of sternness, “What’s the matter?”

Gu Yan opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something, but in the end, he didn’t say anything. He paused and gave Qi Xi the object in his hand, “Your book.”

Qi Xi looked at it and saw that it was her LSAT question book.

“You forgot it in the library.”

After Gu Yan finished speaking, he glanced at Qi Xi, who placed the book down, before turning away.

Baffled, Qi Xi had mixed emotions. The LSAT preparatory book represented the countless days and nights she studied in the library.

The counselor’s words made her confused again. Subconsciously opening the book, a letter fell out.

“To my favorite Qi Xi Baby,”

The title of the letter was quite shocking for Qi Xi.

This is… is this a love letter?

Gu Yan had handed this book to her and earlier he mentioned he was planning on confessing today, so…

 It turns out the stinky man liked me? Gu Yan actually likes me? This love letter is for ME?

Qi Xi was absolutely confused.

Her heart was beating violently as she recalled Gu Yan’s face and figure. It was hard to imagine such a cold person writing such a disgusting letter and giving it to Qi Xi Baby…

Here comes the biggest problem… do I want to accept someone who calls me Qi Xi baby? Or should I refuse? After all, Gu Yan and I have many old and new wounds between us that can’t be explained…

But… but his face and figure are also really good. He places first every time so his IQ should be very strong. Why don’t you go undercover? Accept him and then master all the barbarian skills he used to place first?

Qi Xi opened the love letter amidst confusion and tension… and then, her face blackened.

“My little baby, I fell in love with you first sight, thinking about you day and night, but I was too afraid to confess. Now that I am about to graduate, I decided to be brave and confess to you. I love you. I love you so much that I can’t sleep. All I think about is you. I go through the clouds and rain as you dance through my dreams.

“My darling, I think you must be interested in me, otherwise you wouldn’t seduce me by wearing clothes that are tight-fitting, showing off your figure. When you move in front of me, I see your chest, waist, ass… I can’t walk! All these images in my dreams! You make people haggard. I can’t sleep well, I feel empty as if I am about to be hollowed out.

“So you committed a crime against me. And I, with all my love, sentence you to life imprisonment with me! I don’t want to be hollowed out by sleepless nights in the future. I want you to hollow me out instead, every night of the future!”

Qi Xi couldn’t believe her eyes.

Is this a love letter? More like sexual harassment! Absolutely disgusting too!

When did I seduce you? The “tight-fitting” clothes she wore was a dance suit, designed to highlight her curves. But, she never danced and twisted her body in front of Gu Yan alone! I was forced to participate in the Mid-Autumn Academy Ball! It’s a normal artistic performance in front of the whole academy!

Qi Xi stared at the final signature of this love letter—

The two big characters “Gu Yan” shiningly brightly in front of her, declaring that what she saw was not a dream.

I expected Gu Yan to be a cold and serious person. I didn’t expect him to be so filthy on the inside! This person is simply harmful trash!

Qi Xi decided she would not involve herself with the harmful Gu Yan. She placed the letter in the book.

Taking a deep breath, Qi Xi finally made up her mind. She handed the LSAT book to her good friend Zhao Yanyan, who happened to pass by, and changed the speech to look similar to the speech revised by the counselor. After many paper balls where thrown into the trash, she was ready.

She hoped to show everyone that girls don’t have stage fright, that they don’t always obey. Girls have their own thoughts and free will. Girls are not accessories of any man… not the “obedient, well-behaved, and docile” stereotypical puppet.

“Today, before the commencement speech, I received a love letter which made me change the speech that was already finalized. On spot, I want to tell you about the prejudice against women in this society and the power women should have to fight against it!”

It was a bold rebellion, but also a temporary play of anger. Regardless, Qi Xi never felt so confident. She was no longer the second ranker but her true self. Though a little nervous in the beginning, once she began, Qi Xi spoke more smoothly, full of energy.

“The proportion of girls in law school has always been much higher than that of boys. But why do most people still think boys are more likely to succeed? How many of our undergraduate, master, and doctoral students have stayed in school afterwards? Even the law school itself unknowingly practices employment discrimination! When recruiting, men are given priority, and men who stay in school and teach are given priority. Society needs women! But it oppresses and disrespects women.

“I hope all law school graduates, men and women, can fight for gender equality. So please, for every man, if you like a girl, it’s best to pursue her with respect. Non-verbal harassment and objectification should not be allowed.”

At this moment, thousands of eyes are focused on Qi Xi, but her face is solemn. Even though the counselor’s face was white and light-headed, Qi Xi didn’t care.

The only thing she cares about is the initiator of it all. Gu Yan.

He stared at her intently, though the one to be blamed for such a reckless action, he had no guilt or shame on his face.

Considering the grievances she faced in the past 4 years… the repression of not being recognized, the resentment of being labelled and suppressed, the humiliation of receiving such an obscene confession, Qi Xi’s blood boiled.

Most girls in the audience were also emotionally charged. The atmosphere of the graduation ceremony was white-hot.

As if she couldn’t help it, she turned to stare at Gu Yan, and with a hearty and passionate exclamation, she finally pushed towards the end of her climatic speech. Like a burst of flames, she announced:

“Gu Yan, you have the right to have a crush, but it’s an absolute crime to confess like this!

“I hope you remember that I am someone you can’t catch up with in your lifetime. Girls in law school are never the ones you can harass!”

Gu Yan, today, I will tear off your beastly skin!

Qi Xi’s words were like a drop of water dripping into a scalding oil pan. There was immediate uproar in the scene. Sure enough, all eyes turned to Gu Yan. Qi Xi stood on stage, waiting for Gu Yan to run off in panic and flee.

But he didn’t.

Gu Yan simply frowned, face darkening as his lips were tightly pressed together. He didn’t say a word, didn’t do anything, just stared at Qi Xi on stage.

What? Didn’t you wrong me? You had the guts to give me the letter but don’t have the guts to admit it?

Qi Xi calmly bowed and thanked the audience amidst the chaotic scene. She walked off the stage gracefully and generously.

Under the stage, Zhao Yanyan looked at Qi Xi with a desperate expression of “You’re Done For!“

Qi Xi felt good regardless. As she sat next to Zhao Yanyan, she unscrewed the bottlecap to her mineral water, taking a sip, “Aren’t you happy Zhao Yanyan? We have all graduated. Even if the college leaders and counselors are not happy, what can I do? This is the only time I rebelled in my adolescence. Speak truthfully! It’s no big deal.”

Zhao Yanyan still held the LSAT book that Qi Xi had given her previously, “Qi Xi, have you read the love letter?”

“Of course.”

“Turn it over and look at the back.”

Qi Xi was a little surprised, “There’s more in the back?”

Wasn’t the signature in the front? Could it be that Gu Yan still had a few more unfinished words? Did he write a few more monologues in the back, further tarnishing himself.

Qi Xi felt refreshed as she just finished delivering such an important speech. Flipping the love letter to the back, she discovered the terrible truth.

This love letter is truly unfinished…

Because soon after the disgusting confession with Gu Yan’s name, was the words, “roommate Zhang Jia Ling.” So combined, the signature was: Gu Yan’s roommate Zhang Jia Ling.

The letter was not written by Gu Yan.

It was written by Gu Yan’s roommate Zhang Jia Ling!

She had just insulted the wrong person with passion!

Why didn’t I think about turning the letter over and looking at it?

Qi Xi felt suffocated in an instant. As if she was choked by her terrible fate, she slowly turned around and looked back at Gu Yan who was sitting not far behind her.

Sure enough, Gu Yan ignored the inquiring eyes of many others, his eyes passing through the crowd as he stared at her.

His face was still fair and handsome, but now the body was surrounded by a black aura like the old black mountain demon.

At this moment, Qi Xi felt his eyes were dark and forehead swollen.

Zhao Yanyan added the fuel to the fire, “You are finished, Qi Xi, you are really finished! This is a bloody feud that cannot be shared…”

Qi Xi also knew she was finished.

Thinking about going out for breakfast this morning, she had passed a fortune teller who cheated her of her money. Using many different technical terms as he told her that she was going to have a disaster in the near future as if she was cursed. The crack pot was really right.

She wanted to buy a standing ticket to outer space right now so she could escape Earth this moment.

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