Jian Ci muttered, "Oh," but his mind was already racing, plotting revenge on Randy for snitching. He could practically see himself storming back there, demanding answers, forcing Randy to regret ever opening his mouth.
As though he knew exactly what Jian Ci was thinking, Yu Xi's voice cut through the line. "Don't bother him anymore."
The words struck Jian Ci harder than expected. A sourness rose in his chest, bitter and heavy. He asked directly, his voice sharp, "You still like him?"
Yu Xi was caught off guard. Where did that come from? Nothing he had said should have led Jian Ci to that conclusion. "I only talked to him because you spoke to him," Yu Xi replied firmly.
Jian Ci's tone softened, almost pleading. "Oh. You promise?"
Yu Xi frowned. "What is wrong with you?"
Jian Ci forced a laugh. "No, nothing."
Yu Xi pressed. "Where are you?"
Jian Ci's eyes flicked to the oversized cucumber-shaped toy in front of him. His voice came out hesitant. "At a store."
