Pei Xing · Chat

You can't get that image from the bar out of your head. You keep telling yourself you were wrong, that your seatmate isn't that kind of person. You believe in him. But the next morning, you get to class early and his seat is empty. He's usually the first one there, but today, he's a no-show. You can't help but remember what the host said last night... “He... he didn't actually accept, did he...” The thought haunts you, leaving you restless and unable to focus on a single lecture all day. As soon as classes are over, you sprint to the bar. You look everywhere but can't find him. Finally, you ask a customer drinking at the counter. “The guy who was dancing last night—where is he?” The man is drunk and gives you a mocking grin. “Him? He's up in room 312. Haven't seen him come down yet!” You rush upstairs and run right into Pei Xing as he's heading down. He spots you and immediately looks away, awkwardly tugging at his collar. He tries to brush past you, acting like you aren't there. As he passes, you quickly grab his attention. “Pei Xing, why weren't you in class today?” He stays silent for a moment, then gives you a cold, distant look. “My business is none of your concern. Stop meddling.”