Chapter 75: Destined for Solitude

The one who called out was Xu Ying. The sudden voice from behind startled Chen Fan so much that his spine knocked against the table. Yet what surprised him even more was Xu Ying’s outfit today: a standard JK sailor uniform, paired with long black stockings. If only her figure were a bit more striking, she’d be more effective than a pacemaker.

He imagined himself many years from now, in his twilight, lying in the intensive care unit at death’s door. The doctors had all given up, and only death’s countdown remained. The attending physician would hold Chen Fan’s hand and ask, “Is there any wish you have left unfulfilled in this life?”

Chen Fan, weak and fading, would reply, “Yes. Before I go, I’d like to see you all in sailor uniforms once more.”

The doctor would turn aside, half-reluctant, half-amused, and agree, “Alright, but before you leave, remember to give us a five-star review.”

Not long after, a cross-dressing man in a JK sailor uniform would appear before Chen Fan, holding a customer feedback form. He’d hand it over, saying, “Are you satisfied? Please sign here, and don’t forget to attach a photo and a five-star comment—fifteen words, please.”

A spark of life would glimmer in Chen Fan’s vacant eyes. His bloodless skin would flush with a rosy hue; all his vital signs would begin to recover, some even exceeding normal ranges.

In the end, Chen Fan would pull off his own oxygen mask, throw back the covers, and walk out on his own. He would be completely cured. Looking back on that night, he’d always sigh, “My life was saved by a sailor uniform.”

...

“Ugh, what am I even thinking?” Chen Fan rolled his eyes several times, breaking off his inner monologue.

“Oh, looks like your official partner has arrived. I shouldn’t intrude, so I’ll be going now.” Yu Miao, sensing the shift, stood up, pretending she wasn’t very close to Chen Fan—which was, in fact, true.

“What were you two just talking about?” Xu Ying pulled out the chair next to him, sat down carefully, and, seeing the space was a bit tight, shuffled back a little.

Chen Fan glanced at the collar of her uniform, silently amused, but said nothing. He calmly picked up a book from the table and placed it on his lap, replying nonchalantly, “Nothing, just discussing academics.”

Xu Ying’s eyes widened as she met his gaze for a few seconds. Her long lashes seemed to urge him to be honest. Chen Fan shook his head firmly and said, “Really, it was just about studying. I don’t have a girlfriend yet. If you keep staring at me like that, people will get the wrong idea.”

Xu Ying withdrew her gaze, smoothed out her skirt, and said a bit shyly, “I came to the library to borrow some books. I didn’t expect to run into you. You know how girls are—sometimes curiosity just gets the better of us.”

Looking at her blushing face, Chen Fan confirmed it wasn’t makeup but true shyness, and couldn’t help but feel a bit pleased. He hadn’t thought he had any masculine charm to speak of.

“Idiot, you’re just lucky there are more girls than boys,” the old sage in his mind popped up from the folds of his trousers to whisper. Chen Fan gave a couple of awkward laughs and promptly pushed that thought aside.

He asked, “What book are you here to borrow?”

Xu Ying showed him the book in her hands. “Just some books for my major. I might take the postgraduate entrance exam after graduation, so I’m getting a head start.”

“So soon?” Chen Fan thought to himself, It’s only been a month since freshman year began, and she’s already planning four years ahead. Compared to her, I really am a deadweight.

“My relatives said the earlier you prepare, the better. I’m not sure whether I’ll pursue a government job or continue my studies.” Xu Ying lowered her head, as if collapsing into a soft couch.

“Well, it’s always good to be prepared.”

Chen Fan swallowed hard. The saying was true—people are judged by their appearance, horses by their saddle. Xu Ying in a sailor uniform was on a whole new level of attractiveness. The more he looked, the more pleasing she became, and his imagination started running wild.

“Why are you wearing that outfit today?” Chen Fan shifted his book slightly to cover up some unspeakable embarrassment.

Xu Ying blinked and said hesitantly, “There’s an anime convention this afternoon. I’m part of the cosplay group in the anime club, and I might have to go on stage. I didn’t want to make two trips, and since sailor uniforms are fine for everyday wear, I just wore it out. Do you think it looks weird?”

“Not at all, not at all. I think it looks great.”

Chen Fan felt as if some primordial force was about to burst from his nostrils. He hurriedly took a few deep breaths to steady himself and resumed his calm demeanor.

When Xu Ying’s outfit caught the eyes of passing males, Chen Fan even played the role of her protector, sending those persistent nerds packing with a glance and relishing his imaginary heroics—even if it was all in his head.

“That girl you were discussing academics with just now seems quite elegant. What’s her name?”

The conversation had come full circle, and it was clear this was Xu Ying’s true intention. Girls never ask directly; they always take the scenic route.

“Ahem…Yu Miao.” Chen Fan felt a chill, rubbing his arms, and even made sure to stress the correct tone to avoid any misunderstanding.

Xu Ying continued, “Oh, you two seemed to get along well. Did I spoil your chances?”

“Pfft—what are you thinking? Nothing like that, don’t get the wrong idea,” Chen Fan denied flatly.

“I see.” Xu Ying, seeing the “sincerity” in his eyes, reined in her curiosity for now and didn’t press further. “Do you have plans this afternoon? Want to check out the anime convention together?”

At the mention of an anime convention, Chen Fan’s mind was instantly filled with all sorts of two-dimensional characters and scantily-clad cosplayers from the internet—though plenty of cross-dressing men, too...

“I think I’ll pass. It’s so hot, and I don’t want to walk that far.” His thoughts still lingering on the convention, Chen Fan subconsciously turned down Xu Ying’s invitation.

Xu Ying looked a bit disappointed, but quickly composed herself. “Alright, seems I’m not charming enough to tempt you.”

Chen Fan failed to catch her implication. He sneaked another glance at Xu Ying’s impressive figure, swallowing his lewd thoughts.

“Some things just can’t be rushed—like brewing fine wine. The longer it ages, the richer and more worth savoring it becomes. All waiting is worthwhile.”

Philosopher Chen Fan reconnected to the server and, just as he had years before, started spouting profound truths to the girl with a straight face.

“You’re right. For a girl with my experience, it’s best not to fall for love at first sight,” Xu Ying replied, not annoyed but instead listening intently to Chen Fan’s musings.

Chen Fan checked the time—already dinner. He’d long forgotten what his novel was about; now, his mind was filled only with Yu Miao and Xu Ying. Clearly, today was a wasted day.

“Want to get dinner together?” After much internal struggle, Chen Fan finally took the initiative for once.

Xu Ying smiled and shook her head. “The anime club is having a group dinner. Maybe next time.”

“Oh, guess it’ll have to be next time,” Chen Fan shrugged, a bit disappointed.

As she left, Xu Ying even shot him a flirtatious look, but with Chen Fan’s lack of sensitivity, he most likely didn’t notice.

“Why did Xu Ying turn back so suddenly before she left? Maybe she likes role-playing as much as I do,” Chen Fan thought, not giving it much more thought. That fleeting glance didn’t even leave a ripple in his subconscious.

“Ha! I am the wizard of a new age, the supreme ruler of all worlds!”

As he walked down the road, Chen Fan, suddenly inspired, started throwing mock martial arts moves. Clearly, he wasn’t well. He’d done this kind of thing as a kid, too—after watching TV, bored with homework, he’d grab his pencil case as a rifle and shout, “Second company, bring out the damn Italian cannon!”

He’d gotten scolded plenty for that, and once, he’d nearly been taken to the hospital for a brain scan.

“Hey, isn’t that an old friend? What a coincidence to keep running into people you know,” Chen Fan focused his gaze and recognized the guy. Unafraid, he rubbed his hands together and went up to greet him.

“Hey, how have you been lately?”

PS: Playing team matches in Honor of Kings, there’s a recommendation spot next week. It’s just a small one, but I’ll keep writing anyway.