Chapter 22 – The Rainy Rescue
The sky had darkened by late afternoon, clouds heavy and low, threatening a sudden downpour. Su Zaizai hurried along the familiar streets, clutching her bag tightly, hoping to make it home before the rain started.
But the first drops fell faster than she anticipated, soaking her hair and uniform almost immediately. She groaned, quickening her pace, but it was no use — the rain was relentless.
"Zaizai!"
She looked up and froze. Zhang Lurang was jogging toward her, holding a large umbrella. Without a word, he reached her, extending the umbrella so that it covered both of them.
"Th-thank you…" she stammered, her cheeks flushing.
He said nothing, only adjusted the umbrella slightly so that she stayed dry, and began walking beside her. The streets were nearly empty, the rain tapping against the umbrella in a soft, rhythmic patter.
Zaizai couldn't help but notice the way he moved — calm, composed, yet mindful of her presence. "You always seem to be around when I need help," she whispered, almost shyly.
Lurang glanced at her briefly. "I notice," he said simply, his voice low and steady.
Her heart skipped a beat at the quiet intensity of his gaze. The words were simple, but the meaning behind them — the acknowledgment, the care, the subtle concern — struck her deeply.
They continued walking in silence, but it was comfortable, not awkward. Zaizai felt a strange warmth, a mix of gratitude and something more, that she couldn't quite name.
When they reached her street corner, Lurang stopped. "Be careful on your way home," he said, his voice calm but carrying a hint of softness.
"I will… thanks, Lurang," she replied, holding the umbrella close to her chest.
He gave a slight nod, then walked away, disappearing down the wet street. Zaizai watched him go, feeling a flutter in her heart.
That day, she realized that sometimes, connection wasn't built through grand gestures or dramatic words, but through quiet care, shared moments, and subtle attentiveness.
And with Zhang Lurang, every small action, every quiet gesture, every moment of unspoken understanding was slowly, undeniably shaping her heart — one rainy afternoon at a time.
End of Chapter 22