The night, thoroughly darkened, veiled the oppressive summer heat. A gentle breeze swept away the impatience that had been lingering. Su Nian stepped out of the car, stretching her legs, still aching despite the rest. "Practicing all afternoon—Brother Beimò really worked hard."
Li Zhen sat in the backseat, legs draped over the front seat's headrest, casually swinging his feet. "When my brother was abroad, he was quite a famous racer."
"This time he's back for his first domestic race, so naturally, he's prepared meticulously."
"You have no idea how influential my brother is. Initially, hardly anyone planned to watch this race."
"But the moment my brother signed up, all the tickets sold out instantly!"
Su Nian gazed at the racing cars speeding along the track, her eyes sparkling with admiration. Though she had stood through the entire afternoon, she never caught a clear glimpse of Li Beimò. Yet his roaring presence alone was enough to captivate her completely.
The screeching of brakes pierced sharply through the night. Li Zhen tossed his phone aside carelessly and slipped on his shoes. "Did he stop?"
"Seems like it... yes!"
Li Zhen hurried off, and Su Nian grabbed a towel and bottled water she had prepared earlier, following closely behind.
The door opened, revealing a tall, imposing figure. The man removed his helmet, shaking loose his sweat-dampened hair. His steady gaze was calm and unfathomable.
"What are you doing here?"
Li Zhen smirked and gave Su Nian a gentle push on the back. Taking advantage of the moment, Su Nian stumbled slightly toward the man. He hesitated briefly, then out of courtesy, steadied her.
So near, his masculine aura mingled with a faint scent of sweat, yet it was surprisingly pleasant.
Su Nian glanced back at Li Zhen slyly, then turned to the man. "Sorry, I lost my balance. Thank you…"
Li Beimò withdrew his hand with gentlemanly grace. His tall, sturdy frame and chiseled features exuded an air of commanding elegance. His eyes remained still and tranquil, devoid of the fiery passion typical of a racer.
Su Nian handed him the towel. "The night wind is chilly, and you've sweated so much. You should wipe it off quickly."
"If you catch a cold, it won't be good…"
Li Beimò took the towel silently, dabbing at his hair with minimal effort.
Li Zhen quickly explained, "My brother's like this—doesn't say much. Don't take it personally."
Su Nian nodded gently but couldn't help stealing glances at Li Beimò, her eyes tinged with a faint blush of shyness. So many years apart, Brother Beimò had grown even more manly. His composed demeanor irresistibly drew her attention.
"Brother, I'm meeting some friends later."
"Su Nian and I are quite different. Maybe you should take her home?"
Li Beimò furrowed his brow slightly, a hint of displeasure flashing across his face. He strode toward the Ferrari.
Li Zhen shook Su Nian's arm urgently, signaling with his eyes. "Come on, don't miss this chance!"
Biting her lip delicately, Su Nian asked softly, "Brother Beimò, may I… may I ride with you?"
"If I say no, will you refuse to get in?"
Li Beimò's face remained expressionless.
Su Nian felt a flush of embarrassment. Fortunately, Li Beimò opened the passenger door for her, offering a step up.
The car headed toward the city, the roadside deserted and silent, lined only by repetitive trees and streetlights.
Su Nian twisted her fingers nervously, biting her lip shyly. "Brother Beimò, it's been so many years—do you still remember me?"
Li Beimò's gaze stayed fixed on the road ahead, never meeting her eyes.
"Hmm."
A small thrill warmed Su Nian's heart. She smiled softly and pressed on.
"You've been away so long, I truly missed you."
"Zhen often speaks of your kindness and how you send her gifts from abroad."
"It's enviable—too bad I don't have a brother, or I could know what it's like to be spoiled."
Li Beimò suddenly jerked the steering wheel, as if ignoring her words.
Annoyed, Su Nian frowned. This guy really was as Li Zhen described—a dull fellow whose mind was occupied only by racing, not by women.
They passed a few late-night eateries still open along the roadside.
Su Nian straightened up immediately. "Brother Beimò, it's getting late. You just finished practicing, you must be hungry. How about we grab some supper together?"
Li Beimò subtly accelerated.
"I already said it's late. You're just a girl—don't linger outside."
Su Nian smiled sweetly. "But I have Brother Beimò to protect me. Let's just have a little bite together."
"No, I'm not hungry."
Su Nian paused, lost in thought.
Suddenly, Li Beimò's car came to a halt.
"We're here."
An awkward twitch curled Su Nian's lips as she stared at the villa nearby. A heavy breath lodged deep in her chest, unable to rise or fall.
She forced a gentle, honeyed smile, hoping to leave a good impression.
"Well… until next time then."
She opened the door and stepped out.
"Wait."
Her eyes lit up triumphantly, lips curling into a confident smile. As expected, even the most indifferent man could not resist such an extraordinary woman.
She turned back, fingers lightly brushing stray hair behind her ear. Under the streetlamp's glow, she felt her glance was utterly enchanting, capable of stirring any man's heart.
"Brother Beimò, what's wrong? Is there something else you want to say?"
Li Beimò stared at her face for a long moment.
Su Nian grew shy, lowering her gaze, her eyelashes trembling delicately—pure and innocent like a maiden.
"Brother Beimò, why are you looking at me like that? You're making me embarrassed…"
Li Beimò's voice was low and firm.
"I just want to say, don't come looking for me on the ring road anymore."
"Why?"
A flicker of unease crossed Su Nian's face.
"Brother Beimò, don't worry about my effort. As long as I can watch you practice…"
He cut her off brusquely.
"You're wasting my practice time."
"...Huh?"
"Being there, you're a distraction."
He was unapologetic, then added:
"And don't flatter yourself."
"The only reason I notice you is because your forehead's shiny with oil."
"Standing there, you look like a… glaring spotlight."
With that, Li Beimò slammed the door and strode away.
Su Nian stood dumbfounded.
She stared after the car, realization dawning slowly.
"A spotlight…?"
She took out a mirror and checked herself under the light, stomping angrily.
"Such a literal-minded man!"
"This is highlighter! Highlighter! Not oil!"
She trembled with frustration.
She had been so proactive, waited for him all afternoon under the blazing sun.
And all she got was this?
With her exquisite looks and enviable figure, yet in Li Beimò's eyes, this flawless, exceptional woman couldn't even compare to that blasted racing car?!