Sudden Visit

Standing outside Liu Xinran's apartment with a container of carefully prepared congee, Yu Xuan hesitated. He debated whether it was appropriate to visit, wondering if Liu Xinran would appreciate the gesture or find it intrusive.

After a brief internal struggle, he decided to press the doorbell, his concern for her well-being winning over his uncertainty.

As the seconds ticked by, doubt crept in. He questioned whether he was overstepping boundaries, and the weight of the decision hung in the air. Just as he was about to withdraw, the door opened, and Yu Xuan found himself momentarily speechless.

Liu Xinran stood before him, a surprised expression on her face. "Yu Xuan, what are you doing here?" she asked, her eyes reflecting a mix of confusion and gratitude.

[BEFORE 15 MINUTES AGO,]

Liu Xinran, waking from a long nap, was still groggy when she heard a faint sound. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, she noticed movement outside her window. Curious, she turned to her front door camera, and there he was – Yu Xuan, standing in front of her apartment.

For a moment, she watched him, trying to understand why he was there. The seconds stretched, and she realized he wasn't ringing the bell. Instead, he seemed lost in thought.

Amused, Liu Xinran decided to take matters into her own hands. She got up, feeling a little playful, and opened the door just as Yu Xuan glanced at it. Their eyes met, and she couldn't help but burst into laughter at the surprise on his face.

"Hey there, Yu Xuan. Planning to stand out there all day?" she teased, a grin playing on her lips.

He, slightly embarrassed, "I, uh, was debating whether to ring the bell. Didn't want to disturb you."

Liu Xinran laughed again, "Well, you're here now. What brings you by?"

Yu Xuan entered Liu Xinran's apartment, a warm bowl of congee in hand. 

"Chenxi was worried about you and since he lives quite far away, he asked me to bring it over," Yu Xuan explained, holding the bowl with a reassuring smile.

Liu Xinran looked surprised, "Oh, that's so thoughtful of him. I appreciate it. How did he even know I was feeling unwell?"

Yu Xuan nervously replies, "Well, you know how he is – always keeping an eye out for everyone. He insisted on taking care of you, but with the distance, he opted for the next best thing – sending some comfort in the form of this congee."

Yu Xuan handed the bowl to Liu Xinran, "He hopes this will make you feel a bit better. Chenxi knows how to pick the right congee for the occasion."

Liu Xinran, touched by the gesture, nodded, "Please thank Chenxi for me. And thank you for bringing it over."

With a nod, Yu Xuan replied, "Of course, If there's anything else you need, just let me know!"

"Why don't you come in? It's more comfortable inside," Liu Xinran suggested, holding the door open.

Yu Xuan stepped into Liu Xinran's apartment, taking a glance around. Surprised by the neatness, he couldn't help but appreciate the organized living space.

"Thank you for bringing the congee. Please, have a seat," Liu Xinran gestured towards the dining table, and both settled down.

As they sat, Liu Xinran began to unpack the tiffin. The aroma of the congee wafted through the air, filling the apartment with its comforting fragrance.

Liu Xinran smiled, "Smells delicious."

Yu Xuan couldn't help but notice Liu Xinran in her thick pajamas despite the summer heat. He found himself captivated by the way she looked, her comfort taking precedence over the weather.

As Liu Xinran took a spoonful of hot congee, beads of sweat started forming on her forehead and trickling down her neck. Yu Xuan, at that moment, found the sight strangely alluring, admiring her ability to prioritize comfort over appearances.