The Return of the God Level Assassin Chapter 1298 1298: END OF THE FIRST DAY
Previously on The Return of the God Level Assassin...
"So, did anyone from your family attempt to reach out to you during the weekend?" Luo Yan at last inquired, breaking the relaxed silence after a short pause, addressing the concern that had lingered in his thoughts.
Shen Ji Yun stopped with his Americano cup midway toward his mouth. He gradually lowered it back onto the table. "No, nobody reached out to me."
This outcome surprised him. He'd truly anticipated an furious call or perhaps even a command to visit the main residence. Yet nothing had come his way. Even Uncle Yi Mu hadn't brought it up. That left just two possibilities—either Shen Xin had kept what he witnessed from the family head, or the elder simply didn't mind. In any case, it worked in his favor, so he had no grounds to object.
"Really?" Luo Yan responded, a real sense of ease washing over him. "I was genuinely concerned they'd pull you into some family mess. Listen, if that occurs, you need to let me know, alright? I'm your partner. Any slights they aim at you, I ought to catch every bit. Then we can fire them right back."
Shen Ji Yun gazed at Luo Yan's earnest face, his own cheeks slightly rounded with resolve. It was adorable. "Alright," he replied, his tone gentling. "If it does, I'll inform you. I promise."
Luo Yan savored a leisurely sip of his matcha latte. He placed the cup down. "Do you suppose your cousin simply never mentioned spotting us to your grandfather?"
"Yes, that's likely the case," Shen Ji Yun affirmed. "Shen Xin probably didn't wish to risk sending our grandfather to the hospital once more. Not that I believe I'm significant enough to the old man to trigger a heart attack merely from learning I'm gay."
He differed from his uncle. When Uncle Yi Mu revealed his orientation to their grandfather, the elder had nearly suffered a real cardiac episode. Only the presence of his eldest uncle with meds had prevented it. To their grandfather, Shen Ji Yun could never hold the same weight as his son. Thus, the old man wouldn't react nearly as strongly just over Shen Ji Yun being gay.
"No matter his motive for staying silent, he ought to focus on his own affairs," Luo Yan stated. "But should he later reveal our relationship to your entire family, we'll face them side by side."
Shen Ji Yun gave a gentle laugh. Warmth filled his eyes. "You and me versus the world, huh?"
"More precisely, 'you and me versus the Shen family,' but yes," Luo Yan replied with a teasing lilt. He took another forkful of cheesecake. Then he sliced off a portion and extended his fork toward Shen Ji Yun once more. "Here, let's wrap this up together."
Unlike before, when the sudden offer had briefly heated his face, Shen Ji Yun now displayed no reluctance. He leaned in effortlessly and took the cheesecake from Luo Yan's fork. A faint, contented smile graced his lips as he chewed.
***
Luo Yan's return to school blended the routine with fresh perspectives. The grounds and lessons remained unchanged, yet viewing them through his updated understanding altered the experience entirely. Surprisingly, he discovered himself relishing it all. He'd braced for tedium, given his prior familiarity with the material. Naturally, sharing the serene cafe time with Shen Ji Yun greatly enhanced the day's pleasure.
Following his final lecture, the Bai family's chauffeur collected him. Since both Bai Ze and Shen Ji Yun faced afternoon sessions, he chose not to impose on them for transport. Fresh from a shower now, Luo Yan reclined on his bed for a brief respite. He intended to visit his grandfather shortly.
While perched on his bed, he considered phoning Luo Jin. He remained unaware of the developments post his weekend chat with Su Yuqi. He aimed to follow up and learn if she'd truly reached out to his brother.
He glanced at the wall clock. Guizhu Academy's classes ought to have concluded. He unlocked his phone, located Luo Jin's entry, and initiated a video call.
His brother swiftly answered. Luo Jin's visage filled the screen. Luo Yan arched a brow. His sibling appeared utterly transformed from their prior exchange. Where he'd seemed irritated and weary before, Luo Jin now radiated clarity and vibrancy like a bright morning. A broad smile lit his features. It was as if renewal had swept over him.
"I'm assuming Sister Yuqi spoke with you?" Luo Yan queried, a perceptive grin emerging. "And I'm betting it proved a truly positive conversation?"
Luo Jin's smile broadened further, illuminating his entire expression. "Yes," he confirmed, joy saturating his words. "It went beyond a mere chat, though. Yuqi... she traveled by plane straight to S City to meet me face-to-face. This round, we discussed matters calmly. We reached a solid understanding."
Luo Yan blinked. What was that he'd caught? Su Yuqi had journeyed to S City? Post their cafe discussion, had she headed directly to the airfield? That was... frankly, quite unforeseen.
He fixed on the screen briefly, processing it. He'd not anticipated such swift action or forthrightness from her. It revealed a depth of commitment beyond his expectations. Gradually, an admiring smile curved his lips.
"So," Luo Yan pressed, interest thoroughly aroused. "Precisely what sort of understanding did you both arrive at?"
Luo Jin fell silent momentarily. His thoughts drifted to the events of two days prior.