Since the café “Recognition,” the relationship between Gu Yan (I still prefer to call him Gu Yan) and me has entered a new, somewhat subtle phase.
We are no longer just online gaming partners, nor are we merely acquaintances in real life, where he was the “Iceberg Leader” and I was just “Xiao Transparent.” We began to try to understand the hidden sides of each other in reality.
The process has been filled with various awkward moments and unexpected contrasts. For instance, we agreed to study together at the library. Not long after we sat down, he received a message and couldn't help but let out a chuckle.
Curious, I asked, “What’s so funny?”
He handed me his phone, which displayed a ridiculous meme sent by Tao Tao in our dorm group chat. Gu Yan had replied with a commonly used Dog Head emoji from Zero.
Looking at the familiar Dog Head on his screen and then at his serious and handsome face… the contrast was too much, and I couldn’t help but laugh.
“Gu Yan, your contrast is too big!”
He shyly took back his phone and cleared his throat, saying, “Not really.” But his ears were secretly turning red.
Another time, we planned to watch a movie together. I chose a well-reviewed Art Film. However, less than half an hour into it, I noticed that Gu Yan next to me… had fallen asleep.
I thought to myself: “Wow, Zero, look at you now!”
I didn’t wake him up; instead, I watched his peaceful sleeping face, finding it both amusing and a bit heart-wrenching. Has this guy been too tired lately?
After the movie ended, he woke up, realized he had dozed off, and was extremely embarrassed, repeatedly apologizing to me.
“It’s fine,” I reassured him. “This film is indeed a bit hypnotic. Next time, let’s pick something more exciting; I guarantee you won’t fall asleep!”
He looked at me with bright eyes and replied, “Okay.”
To make up for it, he insisted on treating me to dinner. To my surprise, he took me to that trendy hotpot restaurant I had complained about wanting to try with Zero—one that requires a long wait!
“How did you know I wanted this?” I asked in astonishment.
“...Just guessed,” he said again with that universal excuse while his gaze drifted elsewhere.
I didn’t believe it! Zero must have secretly noted it down!
Despite my inner complaints, eating the steaming hotpot while watching Gu Yan (who struggles with spicy food and keeps drinking water in an adorably dazed manner) was truly delightful!
Our relationship gradually warmed through these repeated tests, adjustments, and amusing moments of “unmasking.” I discovered that in reality, Gu Yan, though not very talkative, is quite thoughtful. He remembers my preferences, quietly offers help when I need it, and provides the most rational advice when I encounter difficulties.
Online, Zero also seemed to be influenced by Gu Yan, becoming slightly... more composed? At least he no longer sent long strings of Dog Head emojis at the drop of a hat.
Of course, there were still occasional minor frictions. For instance, Su Yao, ever persistent, came running over to stir up trouble again.
That day, she saw Gu Yan and me coming out of the library together and rushed up to block his path, speaking in a sweet tone, "A Yan, are you free this weekend? I got two tickets for a concert..."
Before she could finish, Gu Yan frowned and interrupted her, "Not free." He then grabbed my wrist and walked around her.
"Hey? A Yan!" Su Yao called out behind us, exasperated.
As Gu Yan pulled me along, I felt the warmth from his palm, and my heart raced a little. This guy... he really knows how to be a boyfriend!
"Um... Gu Yan, you don't have to mind her," I said softly.
He didn't slow down but glanced at me with an unprecedented seriousness in his tone. "I don't want you to be unhappy."
My cheeks flushed uncontrollably.
Damn it... how sweet!
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