Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 101: Entrust

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Since Fu Xinhui personally came to ask Zhang for help, it shows him how much faith and trust Fu Xinhui had for Zhang Siyi. No matter what personal feelings Zhang Siyi had for the dog, his only choice was to help his friend and say yes.

When the realization of being alone settled in his mind, Zhang Siyi went through a series of complex emotions. Three years doesn’t sound like a lot, but who know what will happen in the future. He could be tied to the stupid dog for the next fifteen years!  …… Aaaaaahhhhh!

Zhang Siyi suggested: “Do you want to get together with Jian Hai before you go and tell him about going abroad? “

Fu Xinhui shook his head no: “If I tell him, he will inevitable ask about my family affairs, and although we are classmates, his relationship with me isn’t the same as mine is towards you. “

Zhang Siyi can understand. Fu Xinhui doesn’t want to air out his dirty laundry and he probably doesn’t want any sympathy from others.

Fu Xinhui continued: “And besides, everyone is very busy. We have not gathered for a long time. If here is anything to talk about, we can use WeChat. It’s not necessary to talk in person.”

Zhang Siyi wanted to refute, but when he thought about it, what Fu Xinhui said was true.

The small group of friends became acquainted with one another through their time at University studying architecture abroad. Even though they were very close in the past, when they returned to China, the number of times they all met together was less than three. It’s not like they aren’t friends anymore, but everyone had their own life to live so naturally people have drifted apart. What Jiang Hai said months ago about gathering less in the future because of everyone’s busy schedule, Zhang Siyi didn’t know how prophetic the words would be.

Zhang Siyi mentioned the Turtle Club and joked with Fu Xinhui: “How did your rent-boy duties turn out? Did you find the experience worth it?”

Fu Xinhui laughed out loud: “I went a few times before my family’s financial problems. I met a friend who studied abroad in Australia. I also contacted her and asked her questions about the University situation there.”

Zhang Siyi: “Oh? Well, that is something at least. I was worried you were being cheated!”

Fu Xinhui smiled and poured more wine. He said: “I didn’t spend a lot of time there. My conversations at the club were all superficial. Even if I wanted more, I wasn’t able to give more.

Zhang Siyi: “What do you mean?

Fu Xinhui: “I went twice and both times, every person I met asked me what I did. I had nothing to respond with so I told people I was learning architecture. Even though that is what I said, I still didn’t feel connected to the industry. It’s like architecture was only part of my imagination.”

Zhang Siyi nodded and remembered the time Gu Yu asked Fu Xinhui the same question and asked why he didn’t work and Fu Xinhui didn’t have much of a reason to respond with.

Fu Xinhui: “Before, I thought networking with people was most important, but now I don’t feel that way. What is most important is my own strength because strength is the capital to make friends. If you don’t prove your worth, people aren’t going to care about you.”

While sipping his wine, Zhang Si Yi listened attentively and he was quite touched.

After a long time, Fu Xinhui casually asked Zhang Siyi how he had been doing recently.

Thinking about the emotional turmoil he feels because of Gu Yu, he had a sudden impulse to tell his secret to his best friend.

He opened he mouth to say something then hesitated……….

His mind flash through his recent thoughts about Gu Yu’s current attitude and Tao Fei’s appearance at work. He wasn’t sure if Gu Yu liked men, let alone whether or not he could be with him. Unlike talking about a man’s romantic feelings for a woman, it isn’t an easy topic to confide in with a friend. It could very well be only Zhang Siyi’s secret love and with the time, the rising and falling tide in his heart could subside and be calm. At that time, he could just pretend like it never happened. But once he said it, no matter whom he said it to, it meant that he was out of the closet and he could never go back.

…..….. As he was about to say something, Zhang Siyi furrowed his brows slightly. He smiled and said: “I am doing good. Everything is basically the same.”

Fu Xinhui nodded, and the conversation of the two men turned to other topics.

The two friends chatted for the whole night filling their stomachs with wine and food. When the meat was finished and the side dishes were empty, as if they could sense each other’s sad feelings, they stopped using their chopsticks at the same time. This is the last opportunity they could eat together for a long time.

At eleven o’clock, they scrambled to get up and pay. Out of habit, Fu Xinhui stopped Zhang Siyi: “I’ll pay!”

Zhang Siyi also stopped him and said: ” Will you stop trying to be a hero in front of me? I can handle a hot pot!”

The two of them wrestled over who will get to pay, but eventually Zhang Siyi swiped his card through the machine first, robbing Fu Xinhui of his opportunity to pay.

After settling the account, they stumbled out of the restaurant and knowing it was the last few minutes together, they had each other arms around their shoulders, huddling close together in front of the shop to wait for a taxi.

Through the glass window, the waitress could see them help each other with their coats and supported one another while waiting for a taxi. She could no longer bear the sight and turned grumbling to herself: – Why can’t I find a good man!?

Fu Xinhui said: “I’ll entrust Cheer-Up to you…”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

With his hand, Zhang Siyi gave his shoulder a squeeze: “Don’t worry. When you come back you will be able to see your dog alive and well!”

Fu Xinhui’s voice is a little hoarse: “Brother, you take care!”

With red eyes, Zhang Siyi also said: “Brother, you take care!”

When the both taxis arrived, Zhang Siyi quickly took out his mobile phone and snapped a selfie with Fu Xinhui under the dim streetlight. Then he watched Fu Xinhui get in a car and leave.

When Zhang Siyi arrived at home, he was feeling lost. Zhang Siyi looked at the carefree dog then picked up his phone and took a picture.

Although he set his self-prescribed status to ‘closed’ for, for the sake of his best friend, he opened WeChat and posted to his social media.

“Heartless Han, don’t worry! I will take good care of your son! I I’ll be waiting for your return!” [Heart]  

There are two photos below the text, one is the selfie with Fu Xinhui, and the other is the stupid dog.

After hitting the post button, he turned to his history since it had been five days since he looked at his social media page. There were countless people praising his ‘closed’ state. Out of the many, he noticed Gu Yu’s icon. Wow, for the first time, even Gu Yu posted a compliment in his circle of friends! His Mother also sent a thumbs up.

Looking over his history, he is noticing the ‘new’ button being continually highlighted as new information is being added to the top of the page. It rose to more then 30 posts in just two minutes!

Zhang Siyi thought angrily: – Do these people have nothing better to do then look at their mobile phones every minute? What the fuck!

What Zhang Siyi failed to realized was, the location he uploaded his recent post to and the fact that he also, was a member of the group.

Ren Meng: “If you are going to say you aren’t gay, I will be first to say that I don’t believe it! [Mocking]

Jiang Hai: “I don’t believe it either!” [Wiping perspiration]

Tian Yujing: “+10086! [Heart] [smirking]”

Su Yuan: “Oh My God. You have a son! You didn’t really develop feelings?” [Wiping perspiration]”

Xue Wenhan: “Hey you two. It’s really easy to make people think you are gay.”

    ……

Zhang Siyi was so pissed off that he wanted to pick up his phone and smash it. They are only there to tease and comment on his photo. Why is no one asking where Fu Xinhui is going? Does anyone care?

Aside from his closer friends, there was a mass of comments below, all of which wanted to express their opinions whether they were good or bad.

UK University student: “I suspected that you were a pair, but I didn’t know it was true. In short, bless you.”

High school classmate: “This is … Zhang Siyi, are you gay?” [Terrified]

Junior-high school classmate: “According to the picture, I can now visualize the characters in my romance slash novel. [Smile]”

“……” Fuck you! (╯‵口’)╯(┻━┻

Zhang Siyi couldn’t help but reply in the public screen: “We are just pure friends! Brotherly love! Don’t misunderstand!!!”

Even after his message, there were a few more jokes and replies expressing doubts below his own. Zhang Siyi collapsed on the sofa and decided he wasn’t going to care. He sighed and grabbed his phone to turn it off, but instead, he was shocked to find Gu Yu’s message. The tone was very different then what Gu Yu normally posts to his social media page.

Gu Yu: “If you don’t want others to misunderstand then you should only send the information for him to see.”

Seeing Gu Yu’s message, Zhang Siyi sprung up out of the sofa and stiffly sat up straight. Deep in thought, intently concentrating, Zhang Siyi contemplated the message he was going to respond with. Another message notification popped up……

Gu Yu: “In addition, I thought you were closed. It’s only been five days. Did you finished drawing the blueprints?”

Zhang Siyi: “……”

Gu Yu really is Gu Yu. No matter what. Gu Yu doesn’t forget to stab him with a needle!

Feeling depressed, Zhang Siyi pretended he didn’t see Gu Yu’s message so he didn’t reply.

Checking the chat history again, many people sent private messages. Now, there wasn’t a shortage of inquiries looking for information about Fu Xinhui. Zhang Siyi replied to their closer acquaintances about Fu Xinhui plans to go abroad.

Another dialog box popped up. This time, it was He Xueying. Zhang Siyi opened the window and read her message. He would never have imagines what she asked: “Is the person in your circle of friends named Fu Xinhui?”

Zhang Siyi was surprised: “How do you know him?”

He Xueying: “I met him at a party and exchanged contact information.”

Knowing what type of financial background, she had, in addition to the information that Fu Xinhui said earlier about meeting someone who had been to Australia……Is she the friend that he met? When Zhang Siyi asked, He Xueying confirmed his guess.

Once again, the world was so small. From her brother, He Chengtian meeting his classmate, Gu Yu, and then with He Xueying meeting Fu Xinhui, coincidences are everywhere.

Now that He Xueying knew Zhang Siyi was friends with Fu Xinhui, she asked him about Fu Xinhui’s current travel status. Additionally, since she had been in Australia before, Zhang Siyi entrusted He Xueying with helping Fu Xinhui understand Australian customs and introduce him to friends.

After dealing with the entire list of social media postings, Zhang Siyi thought about the two sentences that Gu Yu wrote to him. He was his boss speaking to his subordinate, nothing more.

With mixed emotions, Zhang Siyi reluctantly sent a private reply to Gu Yu: “I overlooked my closed status because my best friend is leaving.”

Looking at the large living room, Zhang Siyi felt the weight of all his worries on his shoulders. In addition to his unrequited love, he now has twenty days to pack and move with a dog. Thinking about the large task in front of him, Zhang Siyi felt even more depressed.

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Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 100 Extra: [Small Theater] 004: First Love article – Gu Yu

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Ever since Gu Yu saw Zhang Siyi’s computer screen, the haze of the whole world was fading.

For more than six months, he has been trying to figure out whether Zhang Siyi is interested in him or not. Every time Gu Yu thought Zhang Siyi’s mannerisms suggested he did, Zhang Siyi actions would indicate the opposite direction and thus confusing Gu Yu to no end. He has orchestrated multiple situations to allow Zhang Siyi to confess his thoughts, like the truth or dare game last year, but nothing has happened. Although, perhaps at that time Zhang Siyi really did not know……

In short, during that period, Gu Yu felt that the time wasn’t right.

Zhang Siyi’s intimate actions and then immediate change in attitude has made Gu Yu suffer greatly; unhappiness, loss, loneliness, to name a few feelings. But, the most troubling feeling Gu Yu had, was his inability to use his own judgment.

It wasn’t until the moment he saw his own image on Zhang Siyi computer screen that Gu Yu had the evidence he needed with sufficient certainty that Zhang Siyi liked him.

What straight man would use another man’s picture as a desktop background?

Oh, and besides, that little fool is really practicing “Summer” ……

In every way that Gu Yu noticed Zhang Siyi looking at him; from the look of adoration and infatuation to the innocent need to gain Gu Yu’s attention as well as Zhang Siyi’s sneaky glances, he liked him.

In every reaction Zhang Siyi expressed after being teased, whether he was angry, depressed, shy or naïve, he liked him.

……

After his four-day business trip, Gu Yu wanted to sit down with Zhang Siyi for a serious talk, but with Zhang Siyi’s recent attitude, Gu Yu doubted his own judgment.

Zhang Siyi suddenly began to adamantly focus on his work. So much so, that he changed his online social media status to ‘closed.’

Because Tao Fei is a new staff member, he wasn’t able to spare the time to find Zhang Siyi and talk to him. Even though he has made himself available for work, Zhang Siyi has not asked him about project related issues.

— Are you avoiding me? Do you suspect something after seeing your computer screen? Are you still thinking about your feelings?

Well, as long as the issue is about his own feelings, Gu Yu is willing to wait. As long as Zhang Siyi continues to go to work at the office, he will be at ease.

Gu Yu is always looking forward to the day when Zhang Siyi can honestly admit his feelings and take the first step towards him.

Then, he will not hesitate to pull him into his arms, hold him tight, and not let go.

Gu Yu doesn’t know when summer comes, but he feels that spring is already in sight.

[End of 004]

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Assistant Architect by Xi He Qing Ling

Chapter 100: Metamorphosis

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The tone in which Fu Xinhui spoke, made Zhang Siyi feel guilty like he was on trial for ‘taking another man to our home’ and ‘letting the other man touch the head of the ex-husband’s son.’

Ah, what a mess! (=_=)

Zhang Siyi coughed and said: “He helped me with driving practice, so I made him something to eat at home as thanks. You aren’t here. It is just me and the dog and brace yourself, it’s actually kind of lonely.”

These two sentences are separate, but that is not the case in others’ ears. At the side of the table, the waitress collected the used dishes before the next course was served and brought them back to the kitchen: “There is a couple on the table over there…. the ex-boyfriend is complaining about the new lover going to their house. What is wrong with this world when the most handsome men are actually gay!?”

……

Squinting at him, Fu Xinhui was speechless: “Say… Why are you explaining so much?”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

While habitually putting the vegetables and meat into the pot first, Fu Xinhui apologized: “Recently a lot of things have happened and for a long time, I did not contact you. I’m very sorry about that. Let me explain little by little.”

Zhang Siyi nodded repeatedly, waiting for him to talk!

As a result, the first thing Fu Xinhui blurted out was a bombshell: “Our family is bankrupt.”

Zhang Siyi: “…… What!? How can the family be bankrupt? Why don’t you pay off the money your uncle owes?”

Fu Xinhui took another sip of tea and said: “It’s not as simple as you think. My uncle offended too many people so they went after us. The bankruptcy isn’t related to those people. I remember telling you before that my dad gave my uncle part of the company in the past. The problem is a result of my uncle’s debts which put financial pressure on the company and caused a credit crisis.”

Zhang Siyi: “Well, you also said that your company’s listing has encountered problems.”

Fu Xinhui: “The credit crisis caused the company to stall operations. We owed the bank a large sum of money as well as the loan-sharks. Now, all the family’s funds have been frozen, including the villa we live in. Since its mortgaged, it will be liquidated by the bank to pay off the debt.”

Zhang Siyi: “…”

Zhang Siyi did not expect the things that happen to people on TV, to happen one day to his best friend.

People can get rich overnight, but also, they can lose everything overnight. Since birth, Fu Xinhui lived in a worry-free, luxurious environment. Now that his family has suffered such a big turn of events, Zhang Siyi doesn’t know if he will be able to bear it.

Zhang Siyi asked again: “What about your sister?”

Fu Xinhui: “Remember I told you about the bodyguard that beat the man, right? The police questioned my sister and investigated for a couple of weeks while she was in detention. Since the surveillance was cut, there was no evidence and no matter how many times they asked, there was no answer. My father used his connections and got my sister out. But you know… that kind of place isn’t a place for a woman.”

Fu Xinhui covered his face: “All because I am like this. I feel so guilty”

Zhang Siyi hesitated: “Did you reconcile with her?”

Fu Xinhui nodded and said: “She used to hate me, but I never took the time to try and improve my relationship with her. All I ever did was avoid her. After some time, she started resenting me and also, I misunderstood her. She has a strong, overbearing character, but no matter what, we are brother and sister.”

Fu Xinhui smiled and said with emotion: “It’s true. In the face of adversity, people grow stronger. Although our family has no money now, I feel that together, we are better then what we were before.”

Contrary to Zhang Siyi’s worries, Fu Xinhui seems to be taking his family problems in stride. His attitude has become more positive than it was previously.

Zhang Siyi was somewhat relieved. He curiously asked: “If the bank took your house away, where is your family living now?”

Fu Xinhui: “Living in my brother-in-law’s house.”

Zhang Siyi: “Your brother-in-law?”

Fu Xinhui: “Yes when my sister fell in love, she bought my brother-in-law a house as a Valentine’s Day gift. Since the three-bedroom house was in his name, the bank could not take it away. Although it is small compared to our original house, the crisis is over. My parents, sister and brother-in-law and I live under one roof. Although crowded, it’s good and is a different kind of feeling. Hehe.”

Zhang Siyi also laughed and said: “When your family encountered this situation and your brother-in-law did not leave, it seems that your sister’s eyes are quite good.”

Fu Xinhui: “Yes, although their wedding ceremony could not formally be completed, in my parent’s heart, he is already their son-in-law.”

Zhang Siyi: “Ha-ha! …… What about your uncle?

Fu Xinhui sighed: “Under the pressure of our family, my Father finally gave up the idea of using connections to get him out. My sister also insisted that my uncle accept the consequences. He would only end up harming others again.”

Zhang Siyi was relived: “I was worried that you really had nothing left!”

Fu Xinhui: “Even if there isn’t money and we don’t have a house, my father has friends and connections. They recognize my father’s true character and they also know my Uncle was the problem.”

“That’s true.” Zhang Siyi nodded in recognition then asked: “So what are you going to do next?”

Fu Xinhui: “My father said there are people still watching us so we can’t rush things. Since the bank is liquidating the family’s estate, my parents are busy with paperwork and procedures.”

Zhang Siyi: “After everything that has happened, why didn’t you contact me?”

Fu Xinhui: “Well, everything that has happened so far has been beyond my expectations. I never told you because I didn’t know what to say. There isn’t much you can help with other then to simply listen.”

Zhang Siyi quickly replied: “That’s how you treat your best friend? Even if it’s just talking, then talk to me!”

Chuckling, Fu Xinhui poured a glass of wine for him: “Forget it.  I know you are busy with work and don’t want you to worry about me. Over this past month, I have worried about our money problems, my sister, and my parents. Although compared to the safety of my family and loves ones, I am not very concerned about money. For this reason, I did not want to bother you in fear of your life also being threatened. Since it would greatly add more stress on me, I couldn’t bear it. I also have taken this time to contemplate life and other things. It’s not easy to say it, but I don’t know how to live. Everyday feels like I am in a movie without a director telling me what to do next.”

Taking a moment to inspect Fu Xinhui more thoroughly, Zhang Siyi saw how gaunt and haggard he looked. At the same time, he has matured and now, hope is written on his face and light shines from his eyes. It is as if Fu Xinhui has experienced a rebirth.

Suddenly, he remembered his father’s New Year’s evaluation of Fu Xinhui about the need to take care of himself. Only he will be able to stand up on his feet and move forward in life.”

After three months, at the same restaurant in the same seat, Zhang Siyi is very happy. Here he witnessed Fu Xinhui metamorphosis.

Gently tapping the glass together, they gave a toast, then gulped down the wine.

Fu Xinhui said: “I can’t continue renting a house with you.”

After listening to so much, Zhang Siyi expected this result. Fu Xinhui may not be able to spend as much money as before. “It’s all right, you don’t need to rent it. Since I can’t afford to live there alone, I’ll move out and find something suitable.” Zhang Siyi calmly accepted the reality.

Fu Xinhui nodded: “There isn’t a rush to move out right now. I spoke with the landlord about my intentions to withdraw from the rental contract. It was a year lease and it ends in June so there is one more quarter left however, I negotiated a deal with the landlord to let you stay until the end of the month and terminate the contract early without penalties. The landlord was easy to talk to since the property is in a good location and easy to rent.”

Zhang Siyi breathed a sigh of relief: “Twenty days gives me time to find an alternative solution.  If you had told me I had to move right away and since I’m not prepared at all, I don’t know what I would have done…. Oh, yeh. I still owe you rent for the next month.

“No, forget it. I have caused you a lot of trouble and you have helped me a lot already.” Fu Xinhui gave Zhang Siyi a brief smile and said: “There is one last thing you can help me with.”

Zhang Siyi: “Ok.”

Fu Xinhui: “The reason I won’t rent a house with you is not only because of my financial problems. It is because I am going abroad soon.

Zhang Siyi was caught off guard: “WHAT?”

Fu Xinhui explained: “My father is afraid that the nefarious people will go after me so he raised some money to send me abroad. One reason is to avoid the mob, but also to learn new skills. Recently, I went with my sister to learn about her work as an investment manager. I felt like finance was much more interesting than architecture. I applied to a University in Australia and once the visa is issued, I can leave at any time.”

Zhang Siyi was shocked: “This is too fast!”

Fu Xinhui: “So, Cheer-Up … Please continue taking care of him.”

Zhang Siyi: “……” Holy shit, he’s going to be a dog babysitter for the rest of his life!

With his hands clasped together, Fu Xinhui looked at Zhang Siyi with a pleading face and said: “I’ll be back in three years at the latest. Cheer-Up is a lucky dog and will bring you happiness and good luck!”

Zhang Siyi: “………” Lucky? Are you out of your fucking mind!

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