A Shared Sundae

The sun shone brightly as Liu Yong and Li Changle sat together, enjoying their sundae. The sweet taste of the cold treat relieved their tongues in the sweltering heat.

Liu Yong couldn't help but express his delight, remarking,  " Eating a sundae on a hot day like this feels absolutely amazing. " 

-Hehe!

Chuckling mischievously, Li Changle playfully replied,  " Well, I'm the one who bought the sundae, so you better thank me. " 

Grinning, Liu Yong responded,  " No worries. I'll treat you to dinner later as a way to express my gratitude for this delightful sundae. How about that? " 

Li Changle jokingly teased,  " Hmm, does that count as an invitation to dinner? " 

Liu Yong smirked, replying,  " You can interpret it any way you like. Let's just say it's me asking you out. " 

Li Changle couldn't resist joining in on the laughter, accepting his playful invitation with a smile.

After savouring the last bite of their sundae, Li Changle reached for her phone and announced,  " I'll call a taxi. " 

Quickly intervening, Liu Yong exclaimed,  " No need! I drove here. Let's head to the parking lot together. " 

To Li Changle's surprise, she hadn't expected Liu Yong to have a car.

Based on her knowledge, he had recently graduated from university and came from an average financial background. She had assumed he wouldn't have the means to own a car, perhaps only being able to borrow one from a friend. Curiosity sparked in her eyes as she followed behind him, contemplating the unexpected revelation.

Moments later, they arrived in front of a magnificent building marked by a prominent letter "G." Liu Yong confidently pulled out the car key, unlocked the door, and warmly invited,  " This is my car. Please, get in. " 

Li Changle's surprise deepened as she stared at the luxurious vehicle. 

With amusement, Liu Yong stated,  " You didn't ask. " 

It dawned on Li Changle that she had yet to inquire about his financial situation, as it seemed unimportant. What mattered most was their connection and their feelings for each other. Even if he were less well-off, she would still be willing to pursue a relationship. However, she couldn't deny that his financial stability was a pleasant bonus.

With a sheepish smile, Li Changle confessed,  " You're right, I didn't ask. " 

In her mind, their compatibility and affection were the accurate measures of their relationship, overshadowing any material possessions or wealth.

As they drove together, Liu Yong shared more about his life and expressed his growing fondness for Li Changle. He even contemplated the possibility of a future together, needing to disclose relevant information.

  " Fortunately, I've been fortunate enough to make some money recently. I bought this car, as well as a villa worth over 20 million yuan. I also started a company located on Huahai Avenue..." 

In response, Li Changle opened up about her life, sharing,  " After graduating from Huahai Normal University, I began teaching English at No. 2 Middle School. It's nothing extraordinary, but I truly enjoy my profession. " 

Through their conversation, the two grew to know each other better, strengthening their connection.

Liu Yong asked,  " Should we go for dinner first or head to your place? " 

Li Changle decided,  " Let's go to my residence first. It's near No. 2 Middle School and a bit early for dinner. " 

Being familiar with the area, Liu Yong estimated it would take 30 to 40 minutes to reach the school gate. With Li Changle guiding him, he made a turn and entered a residential area.

Finding a suitable spot to park in the community, Liu Yong grabbed Li Changle's luggage and followed her to Building 11. They rode the elevator up to the 16th floor.

  " This is where I live, sharing the apartment with my colleagues. One of them is away for summer vacation and might not return until school starts, "  Li Changle explained.

Unlocking the door with her key, Li Changle invited Liu Yong inside. The apartment had two bedrooms and shared spaces like the living room, bathroom, and kitchen.

  " Place your suitcase here, and have a seat on the sofa. Let me get you something to drink, "  Li Changle offered.

She opened the refrigerator, retrieving two small bottles of mineral water.

  " Here, have this, "  she said, extending one to Liu Yong.

  " Thank you. It's scorching outside, so iced mineral water is perfect, "  Liu Yong expressed his gratitude.

As they sat and chatted, time flew by, and soon they decided to head downstairs for dinner together. The sky had turned dark, and the streets were illuminated with vibrant lights. Instead of taking the car, they opted for a leisurely walk.

Li Changle suggested,  " I know a restaurant with excellent ambiance and delicious food. Let's go there. " 

  Liu Yong smiled and agreed,  " I'll follow your lead. " 

Hand in hand, they strolled along the lively streets, enjoying each other's company. When they reached a road without traffic lights but with zebra crossings, Liu Yong instinctively offered his hand. Much to his delight, Li Changle accepted it without hesitation.

Li Changle's initial blush and nervousness gradually subsided as their hands intertwined, replaced by a sense of comfort and familiarity. They continued their lighthearted conversation, relishing their joy and connection in each other's presence.

The restaurant they arrived at lived up to Li Changle's recommendation. It boasted tasteful decor, a pleasant atmosphere, and a delectable menu with reasonable prices. Liu Yong took the liberty of ordering several dishes, catering to Li Changle's preference for lighter flavours.

After the satisfying meal, Liu Yong escorted Li Changle back downstairs, bidding each other farewell before he drove away.

During the car ride home, Liu Yong reflected on the evening and realized how well things had gone. Li Changle had a delightful personality—neither pretentious nor indifferent—and possessed no princess-like demeanour. These qualities made him appreciate her even more.

Meanwhile, Li Changle returned to her apartment, settling on the sofa and conversing with her best friend, Wang Li, through WeChat.

  " Lili, I arrived in Huahai City today "  Li Changle informed her.

Wang Li, ever the curious friend, inquired,  " Tell me honestly, did your blind date pick you up from the station? " 

Li Changle chuckled, teasingly responding,  " Oh, you're such a gossip. " 

Wang Li persisted,  " I care about you, so spill the beans. Did he pick you up or not? " 

Li Changle said,  " Yes, he came to pick me up. " 

Amused by the situation, Wang Li exclaimed,  " Oh, it seems like our China Normal University's big girl is about to have a boyfriend. " 

Li Changle, remaining modest, replied,  " Let's not jump to conclusions too quickly. " 

Wang Li, unable to contain her curiosity, commented,  " So many people have pursued you, but you never seemed interested. I'm really curious about this blind date of yours. If I have the chance, we should meet someday. " 

Li Changle pondered for a moment, contemplating her friend's increasing inquisitiveness. Eventually, she replied,  " Let's discuss it further when you're back in Huahai City. " 

The following day...

Liu Yong was absent from work, but his colleagues Qiu Yang and Hu Shijun were present and carried on with their tasks. Chen Hu, on the other hand, drove along the coastal road with Liu Yong in the back seat, accompanied by an intermediary in the passenger seat.

Two days ago, Liu Yong contacted an intermediary company to inquire about renting a warehouse near the sea. He preferred an isolated location as close to the water as possible.

The receptionist at the intermediary company had found his request rather unusual, as it was uncommon for customers to seek warehouses near the sea. Nevertheless, the company proved their efficiency by locating a suitable warehouse on the outskirts of Huahai City within just two days. The owner was willing to rent it out.

Receiving a call from the leasing agency, Liu Yong couldn't contain his excitement. He visited the agency early in the morning and was now en route to inspect the warehouse.

.......