Chapter 278 – So then, what do you like about me? (1)
In Ruan Xia’s impression, Song Tingshen always had a sedate demeanor. Even if he occasionally said a few cheesy pick-up lines, he would say it in a serious manner. But now, he had suddenly confessed to her in a Taiwanese accent. In this small restaurant with her holding a dumpling with chopsticks, she looked at him blankly. After a while, she couldn’t hold back her smile and answered in a Taiwanese accent, “Do you know?”
(T/N: Ruan Xia’s reply is in reference to a popular Chinese drama. The full line from the show is “Do you know? I like you!” said in a Taiwanese accent.)
Song Tingshen probably felt a bit embarrassed. He didn’t know what came over him to confess to Ruan Xia out of the blue. He quickly changed the topic, “I worked part-time here when I was in college.”
Ruan Xia had a pretty good understanding of Song Tingshen by now. He was a person that liked to share his past with people that he cared about. Perhaps, that had to do with his age, or maybe, it was related to his personality. Just take that time he took her to his hometown as an example. He didn’t bring her along because he was concerned about taking care of Little Wang by himself. Looking back at now, he probably hoped that she would understand him better by showing her his past.
Just like now, they were in a relationship, and he would bring her to a place like this one to share his past experience.
His idea was very simple. He just wanted to tell her, this is me, this is my past.
“I didn’t have any place to go during the lunar New Year, and these small businesses are short on staff during the holidays and pay higher than usual wages.” Song Tingshen smiled. “Most importantly, they also included free meals for employees. At that time, the college’s dining hall was closed, and I was the only one left in the dorms.”
Ruan Xia was curious. “Is there any type of job you haven’t done?”
Song Tingshen thought over her question seriously. He lowered his voice to say, “My friend once introduced me to a job with a high salary, but I didn’t go.”
Ruan Xia’s mind went into the gutter. She tentatively asked, “An escort…?”
He was in his 30’s and maintained a pretty good figure. He had a good appearance and steady temperament. Ten years ago, his appearance wouldn’t be any worse than idols that relied entirely on their appearance to be popular. There were many rich women that would like his type. He was tall and handsome. Most importantly, he was attending a prestigious university, which gave people a cool feeling.
A trace of embarrassment flashed over Song Tingshen’s face. It was acquiescence by silence.
Ruan Xia heartily laughed. “That’s recognition of your appearance. You must have been very handsome back then.”
Song Tingshen helplessly said, “I didn’t go.”
“Why not?”
“I was afraid that a moment’s error will bring a lifelong regret.”
A fresh bout of laughter came from Ruan Xia. He was so serious even then.
Song Tingshen recalled that time period. He was lacking money, but he wasn’t moved by the job offer. Even when others kindly suggested it, he would show a cold face to them, leaving them stunned speechless.
Listening to him talking about this, Ruan Xia still found it impossible to connect his past self with his present self.
He didn’t go into excess on how miserable and pitiful he was, and his tone remained calm as he spoke of his past.
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