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Chapter 65: Everything Is Ready

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Qin Guan and his friends had thought Fang Pingping's hair was a mess. She had been dirty and grey from head to toe. Only her amorous eyes had still been shining. She had originally been a picture of heartbreaking beauty, yet now she'd had something funny about her.

They had held back their laughter for fear of being beaten by her fans. (Stop pretending. You three had also been her fans.) Her father had looked at her without a word as Fang Pingping had cried sadly, "I can't go to the Xie Jin Film College now. I wanted to be actress. What will I do?"

Her father had just remembered and comforted her by touching her head. "My silly girl, there's nothing wrong with your face. Your tears are all over it. Do you feel any pain? Do you feel any scars on your face?" Fang Pingping had suddenly realized that her face was not hurting. She had settled down before she'd started hurting all over her body. Her bruises had been bleeding.

The surrounding boys had felt pity at the pouting, teary-eyed Fang Pingping. Quite a few boys had remained there until the police had arrived. They had been too reluctant to leave. The three boys, including Qin Guan, had not been as loyal. They had left right after ensuring Fang Pingping's safety.

Qin Guan had the last bite of the ice cube. Fang Pingping's cheeks looked smooth on TV. No matter what had happened, she had been safe in this life. Besides, she had become popular after the TV series "Princess Pearl". She could be the heroine of a terrible TV series now.

Qin Guan was thinking about this happily when someone knocked on his door. He got off the couch to open it. Li Jian entered sweating, followed by Zhou Jing.

They both changed into slippers and sat down on the couch. Each of them had an ice-cream in hand. After taking an enjoyable bite, they screamed, "Fang Pingping!" Qin Guan stopped them, "Shall we get to business?" Li Jian let out a long, relieved breath. "I settled everything. The wholesale could be at least one box."

"The umbrellas were gathering dust in storage. We could take them away along with the glass counter," Zhou Jing said.

Qin Guan turned to Li Jian, "You can ride my tricycle home today and bring the frozen suckers to the beach. I'll borrow a larger tricycle from my cousin's factory. Tomorrow we'll work separately."

"Li Jian, you should carry the frozen suckers from the wholesale store. Remember to bring a cotton quilt to cover them, or they might melt on the way."

"Zhou Jing and I will take the freezer to the Bureau of Retired Veteran Cadres to move the umbrellas and the counter to the beach."

"That's all for today. Dismissed!" Qin Guan patted them on the back to tell them to go. They both lay on the couch though, refusing to leave. "We're hungry, Qin Guan. It's afternoon and we haven't even had lunch yet."

You're blaming me for not having lunch? Qin Guan went to the kitchen helplessly and shouted, "Nothing delicious here. There are only vegetable noodles left. Take it or leave it, it's up to you."

Li Jian answered at once, "Add an egg, please."

"I want one, too!" Zhou Jing shouted.

Qin Guan sighed, took three eggs from the fridge and returned to the kitchen.

He had lived in the capital as a bachelor for many years. To avoid take-away food, he'd had to get good at cooking.

First, he peeled the green Chinese onion and broke off a piece of it with his hands. Then he sliced it and took a tomato and a handful of spinach from the basket. He cut them into small pieces, poured oil in the pan, and fried all the raw materials. He waited until the tomato slices had become a little soft, and then he kept stirring them with a little soy. Finally, he poured water into the pan until it was half-full.

He fried the eggs in another pan until they were 80% done and waited for the water to boil. He put a handful of thin dry noodles in the boiling water, threw the spinach in, and added some aginomoto and salt.

The noodles were done. Qin Guan took three large bowls out and separated all the noodles and soup into three equal parts. Then he added the three fried eggs, and the noodles were ready.

Although his friends complained about having hot soup in such hot weather, the noodles were quite delicious. They both left as soon as they'd finished their food, sweating quite a lot.

It was sunny the next morning. Qin Guan rode a large tricycle, carrying the freezer, a wiring board, some clothes hangers, swimsuits, and swimming rings to the Bureau.

Zhou Jing had already moved three umbrellas and a glass counter at the entrance of the Bureau. They loaded everything onto the tricycle and set off for the first swimming beach.

It was early in the morning, so the ticket booth was still empty. Qin Guan took the long wiring board to the power supply in the ticket booth. He plugged in the board, put the small freezer at the back of the counter and threw a small purse on it. Zhou Jing opened a large umbrella over the counter and put the other two swimming rings at the foot of the wall. Qin Guan stuck the hangers into the sand before the counter. There were swimsuits and pants on them. One for adults and one for kids, a pair of boxer shorts, and done!

Everything was ready except for the frozen suckers. Not long after, Li Jian arrived on the small tricycle. He opened several boxes of frozen suckers under the quilt in his tricycle. There were two boxes of Changsheng milk cubes at the price of 30 yuan per box. The price for wholesale was 0.9 yuan per piece, while the retail price was 1.5 yuan.

There were also red bean frozen suckers, green bean and haws. There were 60 suckers in one box, and two boxes of Changsheng orange soda under them.

It was so considerate of Li Jian. That little fatty! They put all the frozen suckers in the freezer in a hurry. Qin Guan looked up at the sky and put ten bottles of soda in the freezer as well.

The sun was rising, and the temperature at the beach was getting higher and higher. The sea water was warm under the sunshine. Just before the hottest time of the day was the best time for swimming.

Lots of people had come to the beach. There were students on vacation, adults with their kids, and some tourists. They all saw the new stand, and some of them walked up to it curiously to have a look. Qin Guan and his friends got ready to serve the customers. The visitors were surprised to see the frozen suckers.

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Chapter 66: Business on the Beach and Delicious Dishes

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

People always left package papers hanging on a small shelf to show others what kind of frozen suckers the stand sold. Li Jian had gotten a small shelf like that from a wholesale merchant and hung the packages on it.

The customers turned their eyes to the swimsuits. "These swimsuits look so nice." A young girl walked to the shelf to feel the material of the suits. "Ah, it's seersucker. It's the most popular style this year. I haven't bought it in time." Then she asked them surprisingly, "Are there any other styles?" Qin Guan pouted at Zhou Jing, "Serve the lady."

Zhou Jing hastened to take out all the swimsuits from the bag as he began to talk about them, "Look at this one, isn't it bright?" Meanwhile, Li Jian was selling soda water. "Hey, young man, are you thirsty? Have a bottle of water. Thanks, it's one yuan per bottle. Take it."

Qin Guan introduced the swimming rings to the swimmers, "No matter the size, they all cost 5 yuan per hour. The deposit is 20 yuan. All the rings are made of rubber, and they 're absolutely safe."

When the wave of visitors had finally left, Li Jian had sold five bottles of soda water, earning a profit of 2.5 yuan, Qin Guan had rented two circles and an umbrella, earning a 60 yuan deposit, and Zhou Jing had sold a swimsuit and a pair of three-corner pants, earning a 42 yuan profit. It was a good beginning.

It was a busy day with many small deals. They sold soda water and frozen suckers now and then. Y city hadn't been developed at the time. There was no massive flow of customers like there would be in the future, when the people on the crowded beach would look like dumplings in boiling water. The whole day, they had sold four swimsuits for ladies, which had been their best sale, four suits for kids and two pairs of swimming trunks for men.

They had made a 198 yuan profit from the swimsuits, 130 yuan from renting the rings, and 38.4 yuan from the soda water and frozen suckers. All the soda water had been sold out. It seemed that the frozen suckers, which were the most popular among the tourists, made the least profit. They were still the key to attracting customers though. It was better than nothing, wasn't it? Their total profit for the day was 366.4 yuan, which made Zhou Jing and Li Jian quite happy.

They deposited the freezer, swimming rings and umbrellas in the ticket booth before leaving and gave the woman 10 suckers as a gift for her kid.

They returned home happily. Even though they lacked experience, the soda water had been sold out by noon. They'd have to buy more for next time.

The next morning, Zhou Jing would make the replenishments and give the money to his aunt. They needed more half-length suits. Both the half-length suits selected by Qin Guan had been sold out.

It was just the beginning of July. Peak time for touring would be in middle July. Many tourists within the province liked to enjoy a leisurely holiday on the beach of Y city, so it would be the best time for sales.

The rings were enough for now. They would double them by the middle of July though. It was worth reusing them at the price of 10 yuan each.

They also had to get three deck chairs the next day. They could rent them to anyone who was interested or lie on them themselves. After a whole day of standing, Qin Guan's legs felt stiff, and so did his friends'. Delighted by that day's harvest, they rode the tricycle to the urban area under the moonlight. They hadn't eaten the whole day. Dinner was of great importance.

They planned to have a good meal at the Mother Wang Wonton Pancake Restaurant.

People said that the stomach was just like a pocket and the mouth was like a hometown. All the flavors tasted during one's childhood, sour, sweet, bitter and spicy, were the original elements of their life. Like their genes, they would accompany them till the end of their life. Both in Qin Guan's past and present life, wonton and pancake would always remind him of the fragrance between his teeth and cheeks.

The Mother Wang Wonton Pancake Restaurant was a small restaurant in a hutong of the residential area. Under the small shop sign, there were the characters for "pancakes" and "wonton" on the door and windows. The cooking counter was outside the restaurant. There were only three tables in the room, which could sit more than ten customers. The owners were a mother and son, who were both kind and polite to customers. Despite the simple conditions, the prices were quite reasonable, so the place was popular among students and workers in the area.

When they arrived, they said hello to the boss, parked their tricycle, and entered the room. They asked for one bowl of wonton and two pieces of pancakes each, plus a dish of cucumber in sauce.

The dishes were served fast. Soon, two bowls of hot wonton were on the table. The bowls were made of high-end, blue-white porcelain. With their extremely thin skin and little pork, the wontons looked like crystal. There was a layer of bright yellow egg, as well as chopped green onion and caraway floating on the surface of the soup. The boss had scattered several drips of sesame oil and pepper powder on the soup before serving it to increase the customer's appetite.

The word "pancake" referred to different things in different places. Pancakes in Y city were fried in a pan with peanut oil and chopped green onion. The most important thing about a pancake was how many layers it had. The more and softer they were, the better.

The pancakes of that restaurant were authentic. Both sides were yellow and crispy. When they hung softly from one's chopsticks, they became loose. The boys ate pancakes and cucumber to their heart's content, sweating heavily in the hot summer as they returned home happily. They had paid 5 yuan each.

With gold in their pockets, they felt no panic. Qin Guan had no idea about his wicked friends' dreams that night. He had a good dream himself. The next morning, he could still feel the aftertaste of the meal.

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Chapter 67: The First Date

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

The next day, Qin Guan and Li Jian went to buy soda water, while Zhou Jing started for his aunt alone. Both their tricycles were filled with sodas. They'd bought 20 boxes, and there were 24 bottles in each box. They carried them to the beach, breathing heavily.

A new day had begun.

The gold-digging trio had felt the business impulse of the market on the beach and become the forerunners. As their profits got higher and higher, other people had also noticed the opportunity there. The organizing unit of the first swimming beach had gotten dozens of applications for stands. With delight, the director had confirmed the application of the woman who owned the ticket booth.

They decided to build a public-service spot by the road, which would be run by one person. The stands could submit applications for that. Qin Guan's stand was the only one that summer. There was little space in the ticketing booth for other stands.

Qin Guan and his friends were enthusiastic about the news. We must take advantage of it and make a good amount of money, or the woman's help will go to waste. In a few days, their profits had reached more than 600 yuan per day. Qin Guan had also received a call from Cong Nianwei, which had made him reach a new high of happiness.

It was said that good things came in pairs. Cong Nianwei would come to the beach, and the two of them would hold hands and idle around. What's more, Cong Nianwei might even wear a swimsuit.

How lucky I am! Qin Guan selected the gaudiest pair of swimming trunks from Zhou Jing's aunt. They had blue stripes on them.

The day of the date came soon. After they'd arranged the stand and put the frozen suckers in the freezer, Cong Nianwei idled over from the road.

She looked cute that day. Her ponytail was loose and tied in a small bun at the back of her head, and she was wearing a white dress with small bright blue petals. She looked very comfortable and free.

She had a large straw backpack with her, which was popular on the beach of Y city in the summer. She was also wearing a wide-edge straw hat and had a small straw sunflower pinned to her bun. She gave off a hot summer vibe.

Qin Guan had also dressed up for the date. He was in a white pure cotton T-shirt and a pair of large swimming trunks with sunflowers (Are you sure you have dressed well?), which seemed to be in harmony with Cong Nianwei's look.

Qin Guan ran forward and took her bag, welcoming her to the stand. He cleaned the deck chair carefully and invited her to sit on it. Only when she was seated did Zhou Jing and Li Jian recover from their astonishment. "What's up with you two?" Zhou Jing's voice was high-pitched.

As he looked at his friends, Qin Guan suddenly remembered that he had never told them about his relationship with Cong Nianwei. He had only told his roommates about it.

Qin Guan felt a little ashamed in front of them. Cong Nianwei smiled at them naturally. "We're trying to get to know each other. If everything goes well, we might become a couple eventually. This is the so-called dating period."

How can you be so calm, sister? Look at the silly guy standing beside you smiling like an idiot.

Zhou Jing and Li Jian got even more upset. F*ck! They had been such good brothers, and yet they had found out from his girlfriend. The two of them had been together for half a year before telling them.

They couldn't bear that. Qin Guan was so unreliable. He had to be punished! The two of them started fighting with Qin Guan, "You! Do you admit that you're at fault?"

"I do, I do!" Qin Guan choked out, the whites of his eyes showing.

"Tell us that you'll treat us to apologize!"

"Okay! Okay!"

They finally let Qin Guan go after robbing him of a meal. Helplessly, Qin Guan told them, "Mind our stand. Cong Nianwei's bag is on the counter. We'll go for a walk."

They nodded and waved farewell to the golden couple. Qin Guan's confession had finally succeeded. The two of them were a good match. They both felt happy for Qin Guan.

The sea in the summer was quite attractive. It felt very comfortable to walk on the hot, soft sand barefoot. Sometimes, when one entered the domain of the waves carelessly, the water would beat them relentlessly until they left again.

Qin Guan and Cong Nianwei walked along the beach. The piquant tidewater washed their bare feet gently, retreating silently and leaving small and big footprints on the sand. The sea breeze blew at a wisp of Cong Nianwei's hair before letting it fall again. Qin Guan was looking at her profile. He thought that her hair looked really elegant. He stretched his hand out to touch it unconsciously, pinning it behind the sunflower in her bun.

Cong Nianwei turned around in a daze. Her eyes were wide open. Qin Guan was amused by her cute expression. He grinned shamelessly, stretching his arm out and hooking her hand with his slim index finger before holding it. He gently pulled her closer and stared at her.

He felt his heart beat fast as their fingers were laced together. Cong Nianwei's hands were much smaller than his, and her fingers were thin and soft. Qin Guan held her hand and pulled it up.

In a low voice, he said, "Cong Nianwei..."

"Hm?"

"Feel how fast my heart is beating." Qin Guan pressed her hands against his chest.

Cong Nianwei could feel the blood flowing in his chest and gathering in his heart, which was beating rapidly.

The beat of his heart was transferred to her fingers and travelled to her chest like an electrical current. Heat filled her chest as her heart started beating violently.

"Bang, bang, bang, bang..."

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Chapter 68: Heartbeat

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

"Bang, bang, bang, bang..."

Only their heartbeats could be heard in that moment. The noise from the sea and the sound of the seagulls had both disappeared.

Qin Guan's wicked friends were watching them from the counter in the distance. "F*ck! They're holding hands!" Zhou Jing said.

"Where are they? Where are they? Oh, I can see them!" Li Jian shouted.

"They are so shameless, I can't' bear it! He put her hands on his chest!" Zhou Jing again.

"Definitely a bad move!" Li Jian said angrily.

Qin Guan's brain was operating at high speed as they looked at each other in deep affection. "This feels excellent! Shall I take it to the next level? To do it or not to do it? I'll do it! There's nothing to be afraid of!"

Taking advantage of the harmonious scene and ambiguous atmosphere, Qin Guan lowered his head slowly, staring at Cong Nianwei with deep emotion.

"F*ck! He lowered his head. Get out of the way! Will you move your big head? You're almost blocking them."

"Stop that rubbish. They're about to kiss! Don't disturb me, I don't talk to uncultivated people."

Qin Guan and Cong Nianwei's heads were moving closer and closer. The tall boy lowered his head gradually so their foreheads would touch. The exciting moment was finally there. Zhou Jing and Li Jian held each other's hands tightly, the veins on the backs of their hands popping out.

They were getting closer. They were touching... Qin Guan's head suddenly moved away with a bang. His approaching cheek had been hit pitilessly by Cong Nianwei's head.

Qin Guan could hear the sound of his heart breaking. He would need a band-aid for both his jaw and heart. Cong Nianwei burst into laughter at the sight of the silly boy leaning back.

Her heart was beating really hard as she touched her scalding cheeks with her hand. Her skin was still hot, and her heartbeat was violent. She hadn't meant to refuse. She had just been afraid that her heart would jump out of her mouth or her chest would be smashed by the heat as Qin Guan kept getting closer.

Cong Nianwei was terrified. She had never experienced such an uncontrollable impulse. What a simple girl! Time would teach her that this was what love tasted like.

"What happened? Ha, ha, ha..."

"He was head-butted! Ha, ha!"

Zhou Jing and Li Jian, who had watched the whole scene, were laughing from behind the counter.

"I can't bear it! Qin Guan is so unlucky! Shall we tell this story to the commissary in charge of studies in our class?"

"Better do it together!" the two friends chimed in.

Qin Guan would have known what they planned on doing from their conversation. It was a pity that he was still lost in Cong Nianwei's smile.

Had he been hit hard? The blue sky, white clouds, wide sea and white waves composed the perfect background. What made the atmosphere ambiguous was their heartbreak and finger-crossed hands.

Why did everything suddenly change just when I was about to make a move? Let's forgive Qin Guan. He was too careless to understand girls' thoughts. He couldn't do anything but look at Cong Nianwei blankly.

Cong Nianwei was a little embarrassed. Despite her nervousness, she pulled at the corner of Qin Guan's clothes with guilt.

"Are you hurt? I'm sorry!" Could you be any more sincere, girl?

Qin Guan came to his senses when he felt her pull at him. He massaged his jaw unconsciously as he replied, "I'm not hurt, I'm confused."

"Confused about what?" Cong Nianwei looked at him nervously.

"You know, just now... Do you understand?" Qin Guan was embarrassed. What shall I say? Chick, Master Qin wants to kiss you. Pucker up!

If he'd said that, his life would have ended on that beach.

Cong Nianwei was a little embarrassed as well. She swung both her hands, which were still in Qin Guan's hands. "I don't understand. Shall we keep walking?"

Qin Guan pushed all depressing thoughts out of his head and gently pressed on her soft hand before he answered, "Yes, let's go on."

They idled along the beach again. The tide was surging in the morning, bringing plenty of seaweed, small fish and shrimp to the shallow waters. The sand underwater was softer. Their feet would sink into it, leaving a set of deep footprints. Occasionally, some small crabs brought by the water would get trapped in the pits of their footprints.

As he watched the scene, Qin Guan's embarrassment was replaced by joy. He smiled at Cong Nianwei. "You are a gifted student of the Department of Architecture. Come on, let's try to make a masterpiece! This is what they call painting with the sky and earth!" (You are so uncultivated. Why did the author make you so calm?)

Cong Nianwei was interested in Qin Guan's suggestion. She picked up a cobblestone from the sand and began to paint on the parts of the beach not flooded by the waves.

Well done! The line is perfectly straight and the trapezoid is standard. This definitely explains why she's studying architecture. She's so skilful! Five minutes had passed, then ten, but Cong Nianwei wasn't done drawing yet.

Qin Guan was staring at her masterpiece in a daze, his arms crossed over his chest. It looks like a structured architectural design. So what if my girlfriend is a straight-A student? So what if she's drawing a design plan on our date? I'll wait for her.

Qin Guan was anxious, and Zhou Jing and Li Jian were quite worried. They followed the couple, hiding behind a small sand hill and burying their bodies into the sand to watch.

Li Jian asked Zhou Jing curiously, "You are closer to them. What is she drawing?"

Zhou Jing answered impatiently, "She's drawing on the flat sand. I can't see!" How slow those two are! The sun is rising high, and the visitors are getting more and more. Soon we'll be too busy to peep at them.

Qin Guan couldn't bear it anymore. He poked at Cong Nianwei from behind. "It's not a masterpiece in my opinion." He wanted to take the cobblestone and set an example for her.

Cong Nianwei, who was drawing sincerely, was annoyed. "I'm almost finished, you troublemaker!" she answered sullenly.

"Fine."

Qin Guan stopped at once and stood beside her patiently, waiting for her last stroke.

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Chapter 69: Swimming in the Sea

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Cong Nianwei finished the picture smartly. As she stood up to hand her cobblestone to Qin Guan, she asked proudly, "What do you think? It's my latest work. My tutor assigned it as homework for mini interior design. Today I was inspired to clear my thoughts."

When he saw her excited face, Qin Guan couldn't say anything. What could I possibly say? That she has totally missed the point of dating me? That would be like pouring a bucket of cold water over her. If I say that, I'll never date her successfully in the future.

Against his will, Qin Guan gave Cong Nianwei a thumbs up and told her, "I'll draw a picture for you. You can't laugh at the work of a person who's never learned to draw though."

Cong Nianwei nodded with curiosity. She had never seen Qin Guan draw before. Qin Guan bent down to make the sand around him flat.

"Lie down!" Zhou Jing and Li Jian buried their faces in the sand. They dared not look up until Qin Guan headed in another direction.

"We were nearly discovered! Phew! We ate a mouthful of sand! What the hell is Qin Guan doing?" They both poked their heads and felt sand on their faces.

As Qin Guan was drawing on the beach with the cobblestone, a cambered earthworm appeared on the sand. Cong Nianwei smirked unconsciously as she looked at the stupid boy.

Qin Guan drew a bow with a curving line. Then he added a second bow, forming a peach-shaped heart.

A traditional trick. Cong Nianwei's face turned red and hot. Qin Guan finished the heart and wrote his name inside it before throwing the cobblestone full force into the sea. Then he turned around and said, "My heart is in front of you for the taking." He suddenly quivered. Is that what a human being would say? I spoke too spontaneously. He stole a glance at Cong Nianwei. Huh? It's working! Cong Nianwei smiled at Qin Guan, who looked perturbed.

She walked up to the twisted heart and drew something with her white, glittering foot. A twisted small peach appeared next to the larger peach. When Qin Guan reluctantly moved his eyes from her foot, Cong Nianwei smiled back happily and held out her hand. "Understand?" Qin Guan held her soft hand and nodded seriously. "Understand!"

The two of them left the beach. Taking advantage of their absence, Zhou Jing and Li Jian ran over. As they looked at the two pictures on the beach, which had not been washed away by the waves at the time, they both expressed their doubts.

"The painting style of the two peaches is so different. It's weird."

"It's like the difference between an academic discussion and a kindergarten doodle!" They were shocked by the peaches. The two bachelors were too bored to peep at the lovers anymore though. We'd better go run the stand.

As the sun rose, visitors came to the beach in twos or threes. Zhou Jing and Li Jian forgot to make fun of Qin Guan and got back to work.

Cong Nianwei and Qin Guan were idling on the beach. Qin Guan took a bottle of soda water with ease, opened the cap, and handed it to Cong Nianwei. Then he opened a deck chair and put it under the umbrella.

"Qin Guan, would you like to swim?" Cong Nianwei asked him out of the blue as she lay comfortably in the chair. Zhou Jing and Li Jian's ears stood on end immediately. Excited, Qin Guan asked, "Did you bring a swimsuit with you? I have some good ones here for sale."

Smiling, Cong Nianwei shook her backpack before Qin Guan. "My swimsuit is in my bag."

Qin Guan was over the moon as he nodded like crazy. "I can swim as far as the shark net!" I can still turn this date around. I love you, Cong Nianwei!

Zhou Jing and Li Jian were happy as well. Do you really wonder why? What boy does not slobber before the pictures of female beauties? Those two had a real beauty in front of them!

Cong Nianwei put her backpack on and bought a swimming ticket from the booth. Then she entered the changing room. Her excited boyfriend began to ransack the shelf. Shall I wear three-corner pants? No, I'll look like a conservative boy. Shall I go with boxers? This pair is too colorful and showy.

Qin Guan finally chose a simple black pair of swimming trunks. Zhou Jing shouted from beside him, "Great! Another pair is sold. Thank you, Qin Guan, for supporting our business!"

Qin Guan kicked Zhou Jing with his foot. Holding the swimming trunks, he greeted the woman in the booth and went in the men's room to change. He took all his clothes off fast, changed into the swimming trunks and went outside.

Not long after, Cong Nianwei walked out of the changing room. She was wearing a conservative one-piece swimsuit with a sunflower pattern. There was a petal-like lace around the cuffs, and the lower hem was a skirt made of green sunflower leaves.

Cong Nianwei had tied her hair into a bun, which was convenient for swimming. Her fine, smooth white neck was exposed, and the fitting swimsuit outlined the girl's beautiful figure.

She is a B-cup. No, they're actually bigger, but smaller than a C-cup. Qin Guan entered his wicked mode at once. As Cong Nianwei was walking towards him, the shy expression on her face made him dizzy.

Cong Nianwei stole a glance at him. She felt shier as she saw his broad shoulders, slim waist and slender legs. Qin Guan held Cong Nianwei with a quivering hand and shouted at Zhou Jing and Li Jian behind them, "Take care of our stand!" Then the two of them rushed into the water. My girlfriend will be safe in the sea, away from other observers.

They ran happily in the sea, the waves touching their legs. It was a little bit cold. Qin Guan held Cong Nianwei as he asked her, "Have you warmed up? Watch the waves."

Cong Nianwei nodded. "Yes, I warmed up in the changing room."

His orderly girlfriend made him feel pressured. Embarrassed, Qin Guan murmured, "Wait for me to warm up."

He stood in the shallow waters with both arms on his hips, turning his head around in all four directions. His waist looked fit between his hands.

The surrounding tourists, who were playing on the sand, swimming in the sea or lying on the beach, unconsciously paid attention to the tall young man with the excellent figure.

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Chapter 70: Dog Paddling for the Win

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

As someone who had grown up by the sea, Qin Guan was good at the pre-swimming warm-up. He knew how to expand his chest and hold and rotate his arms; his upper body movements were standard.

The tourists on the beach had a physical movement lesson as they feasted on the handsome young man's body.

Qin Guan finished his lower body movements, which included half-squatting and lunging, ran for a few steps, and then jumped into the sea. He dove against the tide for a few metres before emerging from the water.

He shook off the water drops in his hair as he shouted at Cong Nianwei, who was standing in the shallow waters, "Come here! I'll help you swim!" Cong Nianwei pulled a grimace before taking several steps in the sea and swimming towards Qin Guan.

Unexpectedly, she swam in a perfect butterfly stroke. Her shoulders opened to form a beautiful arc in the blue waters, a glittering, translucent spray spreading around her body. When she reached Qin Guan, she looked at him defiantly before swimming freestyle towards the deep.

Qin Guan was in awe of her. He followed her immediately. Cong Nianwei changed to breaststroke when she saw him approaching. Qin Guan didn't want to lose face in front of his girlfriend, so he followed and asked Cong Nianwei proudly, "Can you do this?"

Then he buried his head in the water, stretched his body, and started rowing with his arms and hitting the water with his legs in a silly way. Dog paddling! The technical term suddenly hit Cong Nianwei. It was really funny.

Yes, Qin Guan was dog paddling proudly before Cong Nianwei. I can't beat you at a standard swimming style, but I can at least save my dignity this way. As they swam, he told Cong Nianwei, "Watch carefully, this is not ordinary dog paddling. There are two kinds of dog paddling, actually."

Qin Guan began scooping up water with both hands instead of alternating. He looked like a giant dog as he slowed down. Excited, he said, "Look, I changed style!" Cong Nianwei sighed at her silly boyfriend. Unbelievable! She changed to freestyle, and in a short while Qin Guan had fallen behind.

He had no time to joke around. He also switched to freestyle, patting the water with his slender legs in an effort to catch up with Cong Nianwei. They swam to the shark net, racing against each other. Cong Nianwei was a little tired, but Qin Guan was still full of energy. "I can't swim any longer. You push me back," she told him.

Her words made him happy. Qin Guan tried to embrace her slim waist, but Cong Nianwei patted his hand away. "Where did you just touch me? A lady's waist is off limits! Anyway, I can hold onto you myself." Cong Nianwei put her arms on his shoulder.

Qin Guan could do nothing but swim back to the beach with effort, like an ox pulling a cart. What a sad fate!

The sun had risen to its highest point, and it was shining brightly. Cong Nianwei rested her head against Qin Guan's shoulder. The sea was shallow, and the water was so clear that people could see the bottom. Several fish with colourful tails swam across the surface of the water, their silver dorsal fins glittering.

As she was enjoying the beautiful scene at the bottom, Cong Nianwei suddenly patted Qin Guan on the shoulder. She pointed at the bottom and shouted, "Crabs!"

Qin Guan was confused. There were so many small crabs in the shallow waters that one could find a whole group under a stone. It was nothing surprising. When he bent his head down though, he was surprised to find two crabs bigger than his palms at the bottom.

They were in the shallow waters, where the undercurrent turned over the earth where the crabs were hiding. One of the crabs was crawling slowly on its three pairs of legs whille another was digging in the sand hastily, trying to find a hiding place.

Qin Guan perked up at once. He asked Cong Nianwei to float there and wait for a while. Then he took a deep breath and plunged head-first into the water. Soon the water was stirring the sand. Qin Guan resurfaced not far from there.

Cong Nianwei thought the crabs might have escaped in the meantime, but Qin Guan grinned at her and held up his hands, holding a big crab in each one. Their bellies were right between his fingers.

Other swimmers around them shouted in surprise at the scene and started looking down at the bottom one after the other. Cong Nianwei followed Qin Guan to the beach with a smile.

Zhou Jing and Li Jian were shocked. How can they can catch such big crabs while they're on a date? This is bullying! If they're so lucky, why don't they go fishing in the ocean?

Qin Guan could guess what they were thinking by their expression. He tied the crabs with a nylon rope he took from the counter and told Cong Nianwei, "Take a shower. It's uncomfortable after swimming."

Cong Nianwei nodded, took her bag and handed her ticket to the old woman before entering the ladies' changing room. Qin Guan took an empty plastic box that used to hold soda to scoop up some seawater and throw the crabs in. Then he told his friends, "I'll take a shower, too. I'll help you later."

There were no customers at the time. Zhou Jing and Li Jian's mouths watered at the sight of the crabs. Although crabs were relatively small in July, those two were quite large and fresh. They were just imagining how they would eat them when Qin Guan came back. His hair was dripping with water because he hadn't taken a towel with him. Cong Nianwei gave him her towel when she came out of the bathroom. Qin Guan took it and returned to the bathroom to change out of his swimming trunks and put on some casual clothes.

...…

Cong Nianwei decided to play alone. Abandoning Qin Guan, she ran to the beach without mercy. The two crabs had reminded her of beach combing, which she hadn't engaged in in many years.

The best time for beach combing was during the large spring tide, when the water retreated further at a high speed. Then sea life, especially slow shells, were left in the wet sand.

At two o'clock in the afternoon, the water began to retreat. It was not tide peak time yet. Cong Nianwei ran to the rocks in the shallow part of the sea and dag up some oysters and spiral shells with Qin Guan's small iron rake. That kind of natural delicious food could be eaten after being boiled with salt.

As the sea retreated fast, Cong Nianwei squatted down on the beach to observe the air holes. Some small bubbles would occasionally escape from them and crush on the beach. When that happened, it meant that there were fresh clams in the holes.

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Chapter 71: The New Face Model Competition

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Cong Nianwei was really happy. She poked at the small hole with the rake and discovered a clam. Clams of different kinds fell into her plastic bag. When she stood up and massaged her stiff waist, the sun had almost disappeared under the horizon. Qin Guan and his friends had already begun to clean up their stand.

With a red, sunburnt face, she bounced towards to their stand, holding the small bag of fresh clams in her hand. Li Jian sighed, "You don't need to study. You can make a living by selling seafood."

Qin Guan was concerned about his girlfriend. "Look after your burnt cheeks. Apply some oil to your face and put some ice on your skin." Cong Nianwei nodded before Qin Guan took her back home on his tricycle.

Cong Nianwei divided her harvest into two parts and shared it with Qin Guan. Then she waved goodbye at her boyfriend and ran into the building happily. In case you're wondering why she hadn't shared with Zhou Jing and Li Jian as well, they were not her friends. Who cared about them? They had both left the beach unhappily.

That evening, the two families had a feast of clam noodles and fried spicy crab meat.

Cong Nianwei didn't show up the next day, as her skin had been slightly burnt. In 1999, using sunscreen hadn't been widespread, and her straw hat hadn't been enough to protect her from the sun. She stayed at home for a week to let her skin heal.

At the end of July, inspired by Cong Nianwei, the boys started selling small fishing baskets and iron rakes at their stand. They were traditional and very popular among the tourists, and they earned them a small profit. At the end of July, their personal income had exceeded 3,000 yuan. After mid-August, when Qin Guan left, Zhou Jing and Li Jian's profits would get even higher.

...

Hosted by the China Art Photography Association, the China Figure Photography Association, and the New Face Education and Media Company, the New Face Model Competition was a national competition for new models. The participants were models who had been trained by a professional model organization (including college students majoring in fashion design). It was a comparatively professional competition for new models, and could be classified as a domestic B competition.

Sister Xue took that competition very seriously. She called Qin Guan every day in August, which annoyed him to end. She was getting more and more rude on the phone, which eventually made him decide to return to college in advance to get prepared.

As soon as he returned to the capital, he met Professor Li and Sister Xue. First, Sister Xue had to teach him the basic rules of the competition. I can't send him to the competition blindly. She made an introduction, holding a guild book in her hand. "The competition includes a local mass-election, a local final, a national quarter-final, and a national final."

The competition seems quite long. Qin Guan was a little hesitant. Sister Xue could guess what he was thinking, and she patted the material in her hand. "The local finals will be finished within the semester, and the national quarter-final and national final will be held in the capital. The competition is not full-time. You can only show up when necessary, so you won't need to skip any classes."

"Besides, why are you so confident that you'll get to the national final? You need to pass from the local final first." Sister Xue ground her teeth in hatred. So many green hands were itching for a chance to try, and this guy was playing hard to get.

Sister Xue opened the material and resumed reading, "Age limitation: women have to be under 22, and men have to be under 24. Height requirement: women have to be over 170 centimeters tall, and men have to be over 180 centimeters tall. All participants should be healthy both physically and mentally. They should have a slim figure and a nice face. Basic skills for performing on a T stage and before a camera are required."

"You meet all the requirements. Fill the application form in and give me a copy of your ID. I'll prepare the photos and background material for you." Qin Guan nodded and stood up to take the application form. Suddenly, Sister Xue seemed to recall something. "Do you have any talents?" she asked.

Qin Guan was taken aback. "What kind of talents?"

"Singing, dancing, playing instrumental music... Anything will do. Forget it, it's nothing important. You won't need to think about it until the national final." Sister Xue shook her head hopelessly.

"Does dancing socially count?"

Sister Xue was slightly surprised. "Fine. I'll find a tutor for special training before the final. You fill the form in and I'll prepare photos."

After filling in the form, Qin Guan started training hard. It was the middle of August, and the sun was shining bright above the capital. It was also the deadline for the New Face Model Competition applications. The busy assistant of the organizing committee of the local competition was deeply troubled. He let out a long breath after he filed all the forms and photos.

Several assistants knocked on the door of the office of the preliminary judges, holding thick folders of paperwork. There were four judges sitting around the meeting table. The assistants put the male and female model applications separately on the table, gave the four judges a short introduction, and left the office.

Looking at the two distinct piles of paperwork, one of the four judges said, "This is the preliminary competition. It's just a formality. We'd better work in pairs. One pair can take the male models, and the other one can take the female models."

The youngest judge touched his glasses and said, "I agree with Professor He." The other two nodded as well. They all looked at the table again. Professor He pulled the thickest pile over, flipped over several pages and smiled. "These are the female models. Here are the statistics. There are 286 applications from female models and 82 from male models."

He pushed the paperwork back naturally and turned to the pile of the male models. He pulled them over and told the others, "Don't blame me for taking advantage of my seniority. I'm old and I'm short on energy. I will be the judge for the male models."

The other three cursed silently, "That old fox."

Being a preliminary judge was a hard and unrewarding job.

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Chapter 72: The Preliminary Competition

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Professor He was the senior editor of "Models" periodical, and he was currently waiting for retirement, lacking any motivation.

The youngest judge was a member of the China Figure Photography Association, who had been sent as vanguard. The other two were an assistant advertising director and a costume institute assistant. Both of them had been paid to be there.

After the preliminary competition, the judges would all be VIPs, much more important than them. All four of them were coolies, so the less work there was, the better it was for them.

The last two judges picked up the paperwork of the female models gloomily. They had to get familiar with it. Professor He and the young photographer were in charge of the male models. They hastened to number the paperwork, thus ending their work for the day.

On August 14th, 1999, a sunny Saturday, Qin Guan would participate in the preliminary competition. Sister Xue picked him up from university early and drove him to the competition site.

The competition would be held at a modelling school. Two training halls with T stages would temporarily serve as the site of the competition. Following the signs, they found the male model reception soon enough. An assistant sitting behind a desk asked routinely, "What's the name of the contestant?"

"Qin Guan."

Pointing at the name list, the assistant checked them one by one. "Here it is. Qin Guan is No. 21. Take your label and clip it on your clothes before you get on the stage."

"Models have to bring their outfits and change backstage. All unauthorized personnel has to wait outside. When the judges call your number, you can get on the stage. Any questions?"

Qin Guan shook his head. It was all clear. The assistant called the next contestant forward. Sister Xue pulled Qin Guan aside and handed him the package with his clothes. Before leaving, she advised him, "Don't be nervous. Just show them what you've learned in your lessons. Cheer up!"

Qin Guan smiled brightly. "I may be a lot of things, but I'm not nervous. Relax!" Then he waved at Sister Xue and headed backstage.

The furniture backstage was pretty simple. Several folding chairs were scattered around randomly. The contestants put their bags down on the floor and began to change. There were bare chests, backs and legs everywhere. The standards for the preliminary competition were simple. Figure condition (including weight, height, chest, waist and hips measurements, shoulder breadth, and breadth ratio of shoulder and hips) and beauty evaluation (including talent, wit, appearance, skin, posture and health).

To make it simple, on the first pass, they would compete on face and figure. As soon as Qin Guan took off his T-shirt, everyone in the room fell silent. Another strong opponent. By the time he had changed into his swimming trunks behind the curtain, there was nobody left around him.

Nobody wanted to be near him for fear of comparison. Fortunately, they would be competing one by one. At the local finals, when there would be a group show at the beginning, the contestants standing next to him would most likely want to die.

The models backstage were getting more and more, when the two judges under the stage were finally ready. Professor He picked up the material casually and had a short discussion with the young photographer on his right. Then he nodded at the assistant on the site, indicating that the competition could begin.

Bright music started playing as the host announced, "Contestant No.1, Li Xiaoguang is up, and contestant No.2 Wang Shuang should be getting ready."

Professor He and the young photographer pulled the material of contestant No.1 over. His height and weight were stated clearly on the form. They didn't pay attention to his professional background. They looked at the swimwear show on the stage instead. It was a model competition, so the models' figures had to be attractive to the audience.

Contestant No.1 had walked up to the most important part of the T stage. His gait was steady and his basic skills were perfect, but he might have chosen the wrong audience. Both judges engaged in print media and photography and focused on appearance.

"A little too wide around the hips."

"That's right. According to the theory of human body proportions, he's a little too tall. If he was as tall as an ordinary person, he would have been gourd-shaped."

"So, fail?"

"Fail."

They drew a cross over No.1's application and threw it in the rejected pile. The contestant had just returned backstage without the slightest idea that he had been disqualified so soon.

"Contestant No.2 is up, and No.3 should be getting ready..." Contestants got on the stage one by one as the host announced them. The two judges kept commenting non-stop.

"He seems to have a good figure."

"No, Professor He. Look at his muffin-like face. He has no angles. He won't look hot in the future."

"But it's only a preliminary competition. We have to select 30 contestants for the final. Let's not be too strict right from the beginning."

"Fine, let's decide about him later. If there aren't enough good contestants, he can pass."

"Okay." The application was thrown in the undecided pile.

When contestant No. 20 returned backstage, the host finally announced Qin Guan's number. "The following contestant is No.21, and his name is Qin Guan. No.22 should be getting ready."

Qin Guan looked back, smiled at contestant No.22, who was one meter away from him, and turned around to get on the stage. His smile made No.22 feel quite depressed. He's bullying me! Why do I have to compete after him?

No. 22 was a promising young man working with the New Silk Road Agency. Although he had just signed a contract, he had taken the lead among plenty of new male models because of his angled face and outstanding performance. His agent, who was also his oldest cousin, was confident about his future. He was participating in the competition to get an award.

Everyone knew that a small domestic prize could raise a model's level. A B- level could definitely be achieved, and any model could benefit from a professional status and have clients pursuing them.

No.22 had been proud of himself. Who would have known that Qin Guan would destroy his dream. He should have been a white horse. A black horse burst in unexpectedly, while a white horse barely displayed its strength.

While No.22 was feeling gloomy backstage, Qin Guan had gotten to the most important part of the T stage. The two judges were looking at him in shock.

"Is he a green hand, Chen?"

"Maybe, but he looks familiar."

"His figure is no worse than that of renowned models in our magazine."

"I know who he is, Professor He. He was a model who worked with one of the top ten photographers in our figure photography competition. That's why he looked familiar. His photos were perfect, they won the photographer the prize."

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Chapter 73: Arch Enemies

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Professor He looked at Qin Guan's application. He is 186 centimeters tall. (Qin Guan had grown by 1 centimeter in half a year). Not that tall, more like average height. He is 19. Huh? He's studying at the Capital University of Finance and Economics, not at a modelling school. I should pay attention to him. Who said that models are not educated? Here is an exception.

The photographer called Chen watched Qin Guan walk until he reached the backstage. "Look at his figure! He's the perfect human. His shoulders, waist and hips are all perfect. Maybe I can invite him to work with me on my next project."

Professor He pushed the photographer to recall him back to reality. "Let's talk about the competition first. Pass?"

Chen nodded heavily. "Definitely pass!"

As No. 22 walked out holding his head high, He and Chen looked up and had a discussion.

"He looks fine, but something's off about him."

"Compared to No.21, his legs are shorter, his waist is thicker, and his feet and head are bigger."

No. 22 walked forward with tears on his face. My dear judges, could you lower your voices? I can hear you in this large, empty room. I'm so depressed!

His fate had been decided before he'd turned around.

"Generally speaking, he is fine compared to the rest."

"There is nothing special about him. I can't decide. He's a maybe."

A good young man, who would have normally passed to the next stage of the competition, had his application ruthlessly thrown into the undecided pile because of Qin Guan. No. 22 went backstage in low spirits. The first thing he saw was Qin Guan, who was putting on his pants.

He walked towards him angrily with narrowed eyes. The charged atmosphere immediately attracted the surrounding models' attention.

"No. 22 is looking for trouble with No. 21."

"Why?"

"He was just unlucky enough to get on the stage after No.21."

"Wow!"

The onlookers watched the two of them meaningfully.

Qin Guan fastened the buttons on his jeans. Putting on his T shirt, he asked, "What's the matter?"

No. 22 glared at him. "Where are you from?"

Qin Guan answered automatically, "Y city."

"I'm asking about your agency!"

"New Silk Road."

"Impossible!" No. 22 exploded. "I work with New Silk Road, and I have never seen you before!"

The gossip-loving audience grew even more excited.

"What's going on? They're from the same agency?"

"Possibly. They don't know each other. It's an internal conflict."

No. 22 was quite agitated. Qin Guan said one word slowly, "Subordinated."

No.22 was so angry, his lungs seemed about to explode. That man is so annoying!

If Qin Guan was new at New Silk Road, No. 22 would have avoided him in the competition. He happened not to be in the system, so they would have fought with their gloves off. He had made a promise to his agent that he would become the champion in the local final easily. What now though? No. 22 felt a little fatter, as if he had swallowed his promise.

Qin Guan arranged his clothes in his bag, walked past No. 22 and asked an assistant, "Can I leave to get some rest when the competition is over? When will the results be announced?"

The assistant answered carefully, "On the same day. When the competition is over, the contestants can go wherever they like. They can just come back here and check the results. The contestants who pass the preliminary competition will be informed about the local final by the organizing committee with a notice. All they have to do is attend the final on the date and address stated in the notice."

The rules were clear. Qin Guan nodded and got ready to leave with his bag.

No. 22, who had been openly ignored, shouted angrily at Qin Guan like an aggressive rooster, "You have no manners! I was talking to you! Why aren't you paying attention? Actually, I'm also a New Silk Road model. I'm your predecessor! These days people don't respect their predecessors!"

No. 22 was getting more and more agitated. He had been ashamed into anger, and his confidence had been hurt. He was waving his arms around, looking even more like a rooster.

Qin Guan sighed helplessly as he put his bag on his back. Those young men can hardly control their temper. (Please, your actual age is 19.) He shrugged at No. 22 with open arms and said without any sincerity, "Hi, predecessor." Then he added, pouring oil on the flames, "So?"

So? F*cking so! No. 22 was about to explode when Qin Guan went on, "Any questions? In any competition, we depend only on results. Manners maketh a man, as you said yourself just now."

No. 22's heart was pierced by his words, as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head. His liver was quivering. Shaking, he looked like he was about to say something. Before he could find the right words, Qin Guan walked out, leaving him alone in the empty backstage area like a clown surrounded by his audience.

No. 22 looked left and right, picked up his bag and ran into the fitting room quickly. He was still in his swimming trunks. You bastard, wait and see! I'll make you die!

Qin Guan was quite relaxed. The competition had been more casual than he had imagined, which had fit his taste well. Sister Xue stood nervously in the corridor outside. She felt relieved as soon as she saw Qin Guan walking out with a relaxed expression.

Qin Guan gave her a summary of the future arrangements and told her about the farce with No. 22 backstage.

Sister Xue sneered, "Don't worry about him. Just prepare for the following competition. That guy can't handle you. If he's plotting something, he will regret it."

Qin Guan was curious about her confidence. "Why? Sister Xue, are you a Mafia boss? Have I fallen under your protection by accident?"

Sister Xue poked at his head. His behavior had once again not lived up to her expectations. "You bastard! I've told you time and time again to pay attention to the modelling profession, but you don't listen to me. Professor Li is your boss!"

"Professor Li?"

"Definitely Professor Li!"

"Is she a tutor at the Capital Institute of Fashion Technology?"

Sister Xue was so angry that she burst into helpless laughter. She patted Qin Guan on the back hard. "A tutor? You have been her student for so long! Is that the only thing you know about her?"

Bang, bang, bang, bang...

Qin Guan got beaten again.

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Chapter 74: Oh! Powerful!

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

"Ah! My bad, my bad! Stop, Sister Xue, it's hurting!" Qin Guan pretended to be in pain.

Sister Xue sighed and said, "Professor Li is not just a tutor at college, but also one of the first official models in China, the current Vice Director of the China Model Association, and a standing counsellor of the National Model Promoting Department. Many renowned models used to be her students, including Zhai Qing and Ming Ming."

Qin Guan's mouth opened wider and wider. I have trained with Professor Li for such a long time, and she has shouted at me every day. Who could image that that serious old lady could be so influential in the modelling circle?

Cold sweat ran all over Qin Guan's body as he recalled his behaviour. I might be the most unreliable student she has had in her whole life. When Sister Xue finished speaking, she got lost in thought. Qin Guan is Professor Li's treasure. He is talented, fit, and intelligent. All models dream of having his appearance, and Professor Li is sure of his inner talent, yet he only considers this profession a part-time job. The comparison is odious!

Sister Xue came back to her senses and drove a shocked Qin Guan back to college. He needed to relax after the competition. Sister Xue drove back to the competition site and waited there until the afternoon. The organizing committee announced the local finalists after the preliminary competition.

As expected, Sister Xue found Qin Guan's name at the top of the list. She took the notice for the final with joy and called Qin Guan. "Hello, this is Sister Xue. You passed! What? What are you talking about? Donkey meat in baked wheaten cake?"

Qin Guan expressed his pleasure before making an unreasonable request. Sister Xue had to send the notice to his college and bring him dinner from a nearby restaurant.

The donkey meat restaurant in the Zaojunmiao residential area was a small shop less than 200 metres away from Qin Guan's college. People queued up there to buy baked cakes with donkey meat.

The meat was boiled with spices in a large cauldron, and the recipe was a secret. Their baked wheaten cake was even more famous. It had layers thinner than paper, and it was crisp, flavoured, and soft in the mouth.

Sister Xue queued up breathlessly and fought to get two cakes and a bowl of donkey meat for Master Qin. He had to be served like a king. Fortunately, he had no requests besides delicious food. Qin Guan finished the donkey meat feast, read the notice carefully and lay in bed in satisfaction. He soon fell asleep. (He was so tough.)

It was Monday August 16th, 1999. Sister Xue and Qin Guan arrived at the site for local final early. There were a lot less contestants this time. 30 female models and 30 male models had gathered at the competition site. Backstage, a casual cloth curtain prevented them from seeing each other.

There were less people around this time, so assistants and agents could accompany them. Naturally, Sister Xue entered the backstage as Qin Guan's assistant. According to the arrangement of the organizing committee, they had to find the dressing team backstage. During the first round, they would show their personal accomplishments, and during the second round, Qin Guan would have to work with a female model who had the same number as him. They would show a group of outfits and equipment. Then it would be time for the judges to decide.

The local final procedure was not that complicated. The key to qualifying was cooperating with the female contestants and choosing the right outfit and equipment. The male models would choose their outfits first, as their suits were comparatively simple. Then female models would choose outfits that matched their partners' choices. That was why the ladies were nervous. Their fate was in the hands of strangers.

Sister Xue found a matching suit and gown on the hangers. Among all the strange outfits, that set was the most beautiful one. Before she could touch them though, a man squeezed in from the side and hit her with his shoulder.

He caught the matching suit and gown in his hand. Sister Xue was angry. She used to be a heroine in the hutongs of the capital. Nobody could match her! Who dared steal something from her hands? She seized the thief's shoulder and reproached him, "Take a turn!"

"Oh, my! It hurts! I'm going to die!" The man's face filled with tears.

At the sight of his face, Sister Xue released his shoulder as if she had touched something nasty. She took three steps back and kept a distance of one metre from the thief.

The man's eyes shined like a 1000-watt bulb when he saw Sister Xue. He rushed at her, howling excitedly, "Miss Xue, my darling! I missed you so much! Why didn't you contact me? My heart was missing you dearly."

Qin Guan touched the fine hair on his body and took one step back silently.

Sister Xue failed to escape from the man's attack. A living human was actually hanging from her body.

"Let me go, Sissy Ou! Let me go! Are you deaf?"

The more he hugged her, the more the man wouldn't let go. Sister Xue pressed her hand hard against his face for fear that he would be pasted on her permanently.

"No, no, I won't let you go! Last time you said you'd call me, I waited for several years. I never got a call from you. You're so heartless." Sissy Ou rubbed his face on Sister Xue's palms as he spoke. "You conscienceless girl! My name is Ou Qiang, the most masculine Ou Qiang!"

Qin Guan burst into laughter at his name. Ou Qiang? Oh, powerful? [1] Seeing the murderous expression in Sister Xue's eyes, he covered his mouth and went to laugh in the corner.

Sister Xue had business to do. She didn't have the time to chat with Sissy Ou. She stretched her hand out to him and said, "Gimme!"

As he looked at the clothes and Sister Xue, Ou Qiang hesitated. Suddenly, a voice was heard from behind him, "What are you standing there for, my elder brother? Have you made your choice?" Dear me! My dearest younger cousin has come to my rescue!

[1] In Chinese, Oh, powerful? is the phonogram of Ou Qiang.

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Chapter 75: The Underestimated Military Uniform

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Ou Qiang gestured to Sister Xue and turned back to greet the man, "Hello, my handsome younger brother. I just met one of my favorite acquaintances. I'm afraid there is a conflict between us. We selected the same outfit."

The model walked up to Sister Xue and looked down. Then he cast a glance at the outfit Ou Qiang had selected for him, and nodded handsomely. "If you two are old friends..."

Before he could finish his words, Qin Guan, who was done laughing, returned.

Ou Qiang's cousin recognized Qin Guan at first sight. His attitude suddenly changed. "If you are old friends, then you should be generous. We'll kindly accept the outfit."

Qu Qiang's cousin was No.22, the model who had had a fight with Qin Guan during the preliminary competition. Qin Guan smiled at the scene. Before he could say anything, Ou Qiang introduced his cousin happily, "Oh, dear! My cousin Ou Fen is such a good talker. Ha, ha, ha... We are friends, we don't care about such trifles."

Ou Fen? Oh, Sh*t? Ha, ha, ha! Both Qin Guan and Sister Xue burst into laughter. No. 22 looked ashamed and angry as he explained to the onlookers loudly, "I have changed my name to Ouyang Fen!" Oh, Sheep Manure? It was still sh*t! The two of them laughed even louder.

Ouyang Fen had no idea what they were laughing about. He started pulling away his cousin angrily. Ou Qiang waved his handkerchief at Sister Xue and said, "Meet you after the competition, okay?"

Sister Xue shivered. There were few outfits left on the hangers anymore. She frowned in hesitation, but Qin Guan was resolute. Pointing to one of the outfits at random, he said, "That's it."

It was a camouflage uniform used during the military training of college students. The pants had a large crotch. Sister Xue shook her head repeatedly. "No, no. Your partner will complain. Shall we go with this one?" What she recommended was a suit with a metallic lustre.

Qin Guan shook his head. Is this even clothing? It covers no more skin than a leaf. Without further discussion, he picked up the military uniform again and said, "I'm going with this. It's a done deal."

Sister Xue burst into tears on the spot. She had nothing to say. Qin Guan was too determined to listen to her. She took the uniform and handed it to the assistant, saying torpidly, "It's for No.21, Qin Guan. And here are the clothes for the female model. Shall I give them to you?" The assistant in charge of stock nodded and pinned a No.21 tag on the women's uniform.

When all the male models had finished their selection, the assistant pushed the rolling hangers with the 30 outfits to the changing area of the ladies. The girls surrounded her and got their outfits according to the number tags. Naturally, some were joyful, while others were worried.

"Oh, my! My little dress is so pretty," said the lucky girl who had gotten the gown.

"Look at that metallic lustre! It's so revealing! My shoulders are really broad, and this is a halter top. What a disaster!"

The surrounding girls all looked at her. The girl's skeleton is indeed large. If she wears that mini dress, she will be out of the competition! Somebody was kind enough to try to comfort her. They pointed at the military uniform and said, "At least, your clothes will show your figure to the audience. Look at that one..."

That was when they saw the camouflage uniform. A heated discussion suddenly began.

"This is the most terrible outfit in this competition!"

"Maybe the organizing committee has no financial support. Did they select that outfit at random? Thank god I don't have to wear it!"

While everyone was talking, model No.21 took the uniform calmly. That outfit had made her the underdog. Actually, Li Xiaoli was silently chuckling to herself. She was a student at the Design Department of the Institute of Fashion Technology. Her figure was pretty good, so she had entered the modelling circle naturally.

It was said that a good actress could also be a good singer. The same actually applied to the fashion industry. Many designers failed to find a good job after graduating. By being a model, Li Xiaoli could meet many older and more experienced designers. She could learn from them, expand her public relations, and change profession when she got the chance. There were many cases like that in the fashion industry.

That was Li Xiaoli's plan. The uniform actually really matched her taste. She could modify it with her professional skills and show off her extraordinary talent during the competition. I'll also try my best to help my partner, who chose this uniform. Li Xiaoli sewed as she thought.

Meanwhile, Qin Guan had changed into his clothes for the talent show. He was wearing a rented black suit and a pair of dancing shoes he had made himself.

That's right, Qin Guan had made the shoes himself. Professor Li had thought about the regulations of the competition carefully and decided that Qin Guan's social dancing skill would not work without a partner. She had thought deeply for a long time and finally chosen tap dancing for him. It was suitable for a solo performance, and it was a dance full of enthusiasm and rhythm, which was exactly Qin Guan's style.

They had decided together on the music and tutor. When the discussion had come around to his outfit and equipment, Qin Guan had volunteered to buy the shoes himself. They had been so expensive though! He couldn't afford to spend so much money on a pair of shoes he would only wear once, so he had made them by himself. Who would care? The special slices for tap dancing cost only 60 yuan per pair. Qin Guan had found a professional shoemaker who had nailed the slices to ordinary cowhide shoes, and that was it!

The host began to make a short introduction about the regulations and process of the competition. Then the local final of the New Face Model Competition started.

Female model No.1 got on the stage first, followed by male model No.1, and so on. The models got on the stage sequentially according to the host's announcements.

Qin Guan and Sister Xue were sitting on a bench behind the curtain, watching the show with relish. The models were singing, dancing or playing musical instruments. Those who could do nothing recited poems. They all tried their best.

Professor He and the other three judges had completed their task and retreated from the front line. The four judges were much more important this time.

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Chapter 76: The Talent Show

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

The Chief Editor of "Models" Magazine was a middle-aged man with sharp eyes, and the Vice Chairman of the China Figure Photography Association was a smiling elderly man. The principal of the modelling school that sponsored the competition was a lady that still retained her graceful upbringing, and Xie Feng was a new prominent fashion designer in China.

When the host announced No.22's turn, Ouyang Fen held his head high and turned around before Qin Guan. Qin Guan still did not understand why Ouyang Fen was acting so hostile that day.

According to the order of appearance at the preliminary competition, Qin Guan was supposed to get on stage right before Ouyang Fen. Yet Ouyang Fen was No. 20 in the local final, so he was right before Qin Guan. He must have some kind of connection.

If Ou Qiang could read Qin Guan's thoughts, he would have broken into tears. When he had gotten the notice from the organizing committee, he had begged the assistant in charge of the order of appearance. He had cried on his knees for three hours to get that result.

What kind of connection does he have? Can he rig the competition despite the fact that there are so many contestants? If he really had a connection, he wouldn't need to appear first, he would just win.

Ouyang Fen performed a popular song and danced powerfully before the judges.

He looked at Qin Guan proudly when he returned backstage.

As soon as Ouyang Fen finished his performance, the judges started talking in low voices.

"What do you think?"

"He sang well."

"His best feature are the angles on his face." It's a talent show. Could you comment on his talents, dude?

"He wasn't out of tune, and his dancing steps were correct. You can't set high standards for models." That's true for any talent show.

"He was outstanding compared to the previous contestants."

"I agree!"

"Me, too."

It seemed that the judges had liked Ouyang Fen's performance. Then they were pleasantly surprised by Li Xiaoli's ten-minute embroidery. Xie Feng decided on the spot that he would hire her as a backstage assistant for his next fashion show.

An assistant, not a model. The news made Li Xiaoli mad with joy. This was worth participating in the contest. The award itself meant nothing to her.

As she went behind the curtain happily, the host announced in his microphone, "The next competitor is No. 21. Qin Guan will tap dance for us."

Tap dancing sounded original to the judges. They paid special attention to Qin Guan, who struck a pose on the stage. Wow! Handsome! A fitting suit! Broad shoulders and long legs. His figure was outstanding.

The music started playing. It was "Irish Etudes I". Qin Guan was going to perform a traditional Irish tap dance. It was different from American tap dancing, as the Irish dance combined art performance, elegant movements and the surprising physical agility of the dancer.

Keeping his upper body still, Qin Guan hung his hands down naturally and followed the music slowly. He was getting faster and faster as the music progressed. Tap, tap... Tap, tap, tap... Tap, tap, tap, tap... The sound hit the hearts of the judges. What a beautiful performance! It was the lively rhyme and energy that made professional dancers stand out.

The music slowly came to an end. Breathing heavily, Qin Guan waited for feedback on the stage. The judges talked in low voices.

"Who has studied dance? How was it? This dance is too niche."

"I have no idea, but it seems great. Has he studied abroad? It's really fashionable."

"It's hard to tell, but we should keep an eye on him. A good figure and a handsome face are more than enough."

"I agree."

When they finished their discussion, the Chief Editor spoke first.

"Your tap dance refreshed our experience. You showed abundant energy, which is essential for a model. During your furious dancing, your still upper body showed your control, while your smart steps showed your coordination. It was a successful performance. Congratulations."

The judges stood up and applauded Qin Guan. It was the first time in the competition that all four judges had stood up before a model. Qin Guan took a deep bow and got off the stage. Sister Xue hugged him tightly. It was the most striking performance of the whole competition. All the other models considered Qin Guan a potential rival, especially Ouyang Fen, who was grinding his teeth on the sidelines.

The first round was over by noon. After a quick lunch backstage, the second round began. While the contestants were getting ready, the host announced the score of the first round. With a score of 9.95, Qin Guan was first.

Cursing, Ouyang Fen turned around and saw Qin Guan fasten a wide military belt around his waist and put black bandages on his arms and legs to make the giant uniform fit. Taking a deep breath, Ouyang Feng encouraged himself, "It's just ordinary camouflage clothing. I have a fitting suit. I will win this round!"

Groups of models walked on the stage from two different runways. They stood on the stage for about one minute, showing their outfits before they turned around to leave.

The judges discussed the contestants' performance and graded them.

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Chapter 77: The Winners of the Local Final

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

"They have exhibited all the flaws of the outfits. I haven't seen such a terrible performance in years."

"A bit mediocre..."

"What were they thinking? They lacked any cooperation during their performance."

There were different comments on the couples of contestants. Soon, Ouyang Fen was finished. He was quite satisfied with the performance himself. His partner was a sweet girl who had been in perfect harmony with him, and their matching outfits had looked brilliant.

The judges had reacted to their performance with a slight nod. I have observed all the details! I will fly high in the sky from now on. Qin Guan won't stop my success. I'll be the winner! Ha, ha, ha!

Ou Qiang patted Ouyang Fen on the shoulder as he was lost in his proud thoughts. Pointing at the stage, he said, "Your rival is next. Look!" Then he let out a sigh. My cousin is good from head to toe, except for his non-functional brain. I, as his elder brother, have to look out for him.

As soon as the host finished her announcement, an epic battle score started playing. Ouyang Fen saw Sister Xue hand a sniper rifle to Qin Guan before he got on the T stage. It looked like a T.C.I. M89-SR sniper rifle made in Israel. This was not the time to discuss the type, but where had it come from?

His cousin Ou Qiang had volunteered to buy two toy guns for Sister Xue from a toy stand. The guns looked just like real ones. Yes, he had bought two, a sniper rifle and a hand gun. One for the male model and one for the female model. He hadn't forgotten anyone.

When he bragged about helping Sister Xue to his cousin, Ouyang Fen almost beat him to a pulp. While Ouyang Fen was wondering about the guns, Qin Guan had already gotten on the stage with his rifle. Li Xiaoli had gotten on the stage from a different direction, holding a toy Italy Beretta 92F handgun in her hand.

The judges off the stage grew excited at once. This round stressed on the outfits themselves, not the figures of the models. This couple had spent a lot of thought on their outfits and made extensive research in a short time. Ten points for a good first impression. When they walked closer to them, the judges were even more satisfied with their modified military clothing. Such creativity! Full marks for exhibition!

Following the music theme, the models didn't walk in a standard catwalk, but adjusted their steps to half-squat or stand inclined. They combined military movements, including holding the guns, shooting and advancing, with quick short steps on the stage. The judges enjoyed the short, one-minute show to the fullest.

"It's the most shinning couple I have seen in this competition. Not one of the best, but the best."

"Yes. They had a good idea about the outfits. They didn't change the original costumes, but they added details to increase their beauty. No rules were violated. Very clever models!" That was the designer's comment.

"Their body language and their chemistry were really good."

"They are the most serious contestants up to this point. They even found gun props themselves."

The four judges had a short discussion and then graded them. Li Xiaoli and Qin Guan walked to the edge of the stage, looked at each other with a smile and pointed their guns at one another as if they were going to shoot. "Bang!" After the sound effect, they retreated together backstage.

"Interesting!" The designer was considering copying the scene in his next fashion show.

Ouyang Fen was stunned when Qin Guan returned backstage. You didn't follow the rules. You added that move without authorization! You broke the rules, got it? The problem is that the effect was excellent! Ouyang Fen was lying back in a chair with his fingers in his hair. You didn't leave anyone a chance, Qin Guan. Wait and see... Wait and see! Ou Qiang was about to comfort his brother when he saw his state. "Oh, my dearest brother. Oh my! You have a runny nose!"

When all the models had finished their performance, they changed into casual clothes and waited for their fate-determining scores patiently. Their current scores had been calculated, and they were as follows:

Figure-20%

Style-20%

Temperament-15%

Camera Sense-25%

Talent-20%

The host read the average marks of all the competitors one by one, allowing the models to get a general idea of their own rank.

Qin Guan's total score was still 9.95, which was the highest. Unless there was some kind of accident, he would win the competition. Poking his cousin with his finger, Ou Qiang said in a low, excited voice, "My brother, you are second. Second!"

Ouyang Fen chuckled to himself. On second thought, he felt bitter. I would have been first if it wasn't for Qin Guan.

The host started to read the list of the winners. All the models waiting backstage were listening nervously.

"First, I'll announce the top 10 female contestants. No.3 Jiang Qinqin, No.21 Li Xiaoli..."

The girls yelled in both sadness and happiness.

"It's you! Get on the stage quickly!"

"Damn... I wasn't selected."

Ten beautiful girls walked on the stage and stood in a line to show their most brilliant smiles to the audience. The host went on, "The top 10 male models are... No. 20 Ouyang Fen... No.21 Qin Guan... Please come on the stage!"

Ouyang Fen got on the stage with red eyes. Thank god my nose isn't red. The male models formed a second line along the left side of the stage. The host was about to announce the individual awards. At the sight of the list, she seemed taken aback. Is there a mistake on the list? Forget it, I'll just read it.

"The prize for the most stylish model goes to No.21 Qin Guan... The prize for the best performance on the T stage goes to Qin Guan... The most popular prize goes to Qin Guan... The best potential prize goes to Ouyang Fen (finally a different winner)... The Chief Editor of "Models'" Magazine will present the prizes to the winners!"

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Chapter 78: Shabby Rewards

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Qin Guan held three individual awards in his hands. Looking at the lonely, small diploma in his hand, Ouyang Fen felt weak both physically and mentally.

Qin Guan piled up his certificates and returned to his original position. The results of the local final would soon be announced. The host read from his card excitedly, "The third winners of the capital local final of the New Face Model Competition are No. 21 Li Xiaoli, and No.7 XXX..."

They both came on the stage to get their bouquets and certificates from the distinguished guests. Li Xiaoli was quite happy. As a green hand designer, I'm really fortunate to place third. She hadn't just won an award, but also a chance to be guided by a professional designer. Nobody could be happier than her.

"The silver medal winners are XXX, No.11 of the female group, and Ouyang Fen, No.20 of the male group." When Ouyang Fen returned with his diploma, Qin Guan grinned at him and said insincerely, "Congratulations."

F*ck congratulations! As Ouyang Fen had expected, the host announced that Qin Guan was the winner of the male group. Qin Guan put his pile of certificates into Ouyang Fen's hands and headed for the stage. "Give me a hand, buddy. I've got too many awards."

Too many awards? I have plenty myself. You are bullying me! And I'm not your buddy, I'm your enemy! Your arch enemy! Understand?

Smiling brilliantly, Qin Guan accepted his bouquet and diploma. The host was holding a small announcement from the Chief Editor of "Models" magazine.

Holding the microphone excitedly, she announced the good news to the models, "Dear contestants, our competition has been completed successfully. The top 10 contestants will participate in the national quarter-final, representing the capital. Of course, that's not the only good news. The following news, brought by the Chief Editor of 'Models' magazine, will surprise you all. The top three of the competition will be invited to an outdoor photoshoot of the magazine in September, the most beautiful part of autumn. The photos will be published inside the latest issue of the magazine. Aren't you excited by the news?"

"Yes!"

"Excellent!"

The contestants buzzed with excitement. Such a chance was quite big for them.

The competition ended on that happy note.

Qin Guan was frowning as he returned backstage. Sister Xue was negotiating with the staff of the organizing committee and packing up his diplomas. She thought that there was something wrong with him, but she was too busy to ask. I'll find out later.

She got rid of Ou Qiang, packed up Qin Guan's things, arranged his diplomas and bouquet, got his first winner award and notice for the quarter-final, put the photoshoot notice away, and finally drove Qin Guan back to college in her shabby car.

It was dark and the headlights of her small Lada created a bright halo on the road. Sister Xue let out a long breath and told Qin Guan, "I know what you're thinking. Just say it. You don't want to attend the photoshoot at all."

Qin Guan nodded. "Won't it affect my courses? I'll be really busy."

Sister Xue held the steering wheel with one hand, opened the glove compartment, and searched around inside. Qin Guan pulled a wrinkled pack of cigarettes from the side of the door. He handed her the last cigarette and said, "That's what you're looking for, right? You should smoke less. You always smoke, no matter what mood you're in."

Sister Xue took the cigarette and lit it up, her eyes fixed on the road ahead. "Stop talking nonsense. I read the schedule. We'll start on Friday afternoon and shoot on Saturday. You'll be background for others. The job will be finished in half a day. I'll drive there with you, and we'll return on the same day. It won't take too long."

Qin Guan felt relieved. Then he came to the most important question, "How much is the award for the local final?"

Sister Xue sneered, as if she had known Qin Guan would ask that question. "2,000 yuan."

"What? Only 2,000 yuan?" Qin Guan would have jumped out of his seat if it wasn't for the seat belt.

"You should be grateful. Some domestic competitions even ask the participants for money. I picked a formal competition for you. Anyway, you could make some money. How much do you expect to make with your current fame though? If you win the national final, the award will be bigger. About 10,000 yuan, I think."

All right. The total prizes will be more than 10,000 yuan. Qin Guan felt that his effort hadn't gone to waste. At the entrance of the college, he picked up his bouquet and diplomas. He took six bills from the award money and handed them to Sister Xue. "Here is your share, one third of the total amount. Take it. It's late, buy something delicious for yourself."

Sister Xue accepted the money, murmuring "nasty kid" before she got back in the car. She didn't forget to remind Qin Guan happily, "There is no term for an award share in our contract. Thanks a lot for your generous gift." Then she drove away, leaving in a wisp of smoke. Qin Guan saw her off blankly. He wanted to weep, but he failed to shed any tears. I was cheated. Where is my money?

The intense summer heat slowly subsided. Autumn came. The top 10 contestants of all the local finals gathered in the capital, and the quarter-final of the New Face Model Competition officially began.

There were 280 contestants from 19 areas participating in the quarter-final. Only the lucky top 30 guys would qualify for the national final at the end of August. The atmosphere was tense at the competition site. All the judges for the preliminary competition had arrived.

The models needed to show up twice for the preliminary competition. Once with an optional outfit, and once with a swimsuit. Their fate would be decided by their performance.

The site for the quarter-final was much larger. There were five entrances to the main T stage. This meant that there would be five models on the T stage at the same time. It would be a test for their style and, in a sense, their luck.

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Chapter 79: The Pessimistic T Stage Show

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Comparison made a difference. While they were drawing straws to get divided into groups, several girls were so nervous that they had tears in their eyes. They were praying to have relatively weak opponents in their group.

They were divided into different groups backstage. People from the same competition area were gathered together, and people who had a better relationship stood closer. The models from the capital looked strange. Ouyang Fen stared at Qin Guan with wide eyes, while the others were far away, leaving the two of them alone in the middle of an empty space. Contestants from other areas seemed sympathetic about the situation. Better keep a distance from them. The angry guy is outstanding, and Qin Guan is a charming angel.

When they began to draw straws, they prayed that they would not be in the same group with those two. Let them kill each other. Amen! It's said that China is not influenced by foreign gods. Fine! The Jade Emperor and Buddha then...

When the organizing committee pasted the list of the groups on the white board backstage, some models were happy and others were worried. Ouyang Fen was glad to see that his number was before Qin Guan's. Excellent! Then he saw that he knew nobody in his group. Okay, I'm safe now.

A slender model in the same group as Qin Guan stared at the list for a long time. His assistant pulled at his clothes apprehensively and tried to comfort him, "Don't worry. You just need to pass to the quarter-final. Thirty models will be selected out of 190. You still stand a good chance." The model couldn't do anything but smile at the assistant.

They had to show their number tags to get the gowns from the organizing committee. All the gowns were provided by a sponsor of the competition, Menglianna Clothing Co. Ltd. It was an exaggeration to call them gowns. The brand was overrated.

The company engaged in white-collar, urban clothing. At the beginning of the year, a designer had made an ambitious suggestion to the company. The quality of life was getting better and better, and as a result, annual meetings, evening receptions and wine parties were common events for companies. They had to follow the trend to create new ideas. After making several samples, they had collaborated with the organizing committee. They were planning to take advantage of this competition to test their new collection in the fashion circle.

They had made the gowns with cheaper materials, feeling that this was a casual clothing show, and not an evening gown show. Before anyone could complain about the outfits, the host announced on the stage, "The first group of female models can present themselves. This includes XXX, XXX... They are wearing the new autumn collection of Menglianna..."

The five models walked down the runway, surprising the judges. Is this an evening gown show or not? Aren't those casual dresses? With those dresses on, the individual ability of the models would be more important. Who would be able to make their dress look like a gown?

The models walked in groups. The eight judges had to give the basic points of their feedback in only two minutes. They were tired and dizzy. When the results of the female group were announced, they took a 15-minute break before the male group came on the stage.

If their performance was not outstanding, the tired judges would not give them a high score. Sister Xue patted Qin Guan on the back to encourage him. He was ready to go.

"Now the 16 male groups will come on the stage. It's Qin Guan from the capital... "

Music started playing. Qin Guan was wearing a business suit with light grey stripes and a tie of the same color. Someone with slightly darker skin than Qin Guan would have looked like a rat in that suit. Not a lab mouse, but a sewer rat.

Qin Guan's shining white skin took the suit to a whole new level though. When the other models came on the stage, the assistant of the organizing committee couldn't bear to look at them. They all looked like grey rats.

They were wearing grey suits with grey stripes, dots, slanting stripes, and crossings... They looked like a whole family of rats. The judges were shocked, and the whole room had fallen silent. Only the background music could be heard. Everyone was suddenly reminded of the famous animation series "Black Cat Sergeant".

What could one do with such an awful suit? Keep reading and you'll find out. The judges watched them carefully, looking for something different. The contestant on the left side, who was wearing a suit with vertical stripes, was not acting like he was wearing a hospital gown. With further observation, one would notice that the suit was actually of good quality. It hung smoothly and gave off a sense of elegant nobility. Good! The judges then turned to the four models on the right, who looked respectively like a prisoner, a grey Mickey Mouse, and so on...

Okay, let's focus on the one on the left. The judges looked at his application. He is the one that got a high evaluation in the preliminary contest. It makes sense that he is this talented, considering that he won the capital local competition.

The judges finished reading Qin Guan's application and wrote down his score before the models returned backstage. Before Qin Guan and the other models in his group could change out of those suits, Ouyang Fen jumped in front of them.

"Ha, ha, ha, what are you wearing, Qin Guan? It would be breaking news if a local winner was disqualified in the quarter-final. Ha, ha, ha! How can you compete with me?" Ouyang Fen was so happy that he lost any desire to laugh at Qin Guan when he saw the so-called gown. Whatever, my enemy is doomed to fail. I will not degrade myself so much as to talk to him.

The models wearing the same grey suit glowered at Ouyang Fen, who was really talented at irritating others. Qin Guan paid no attention to him though. He just changed into his casual clothes in the fitting room. There would be a swimsuit round later.

Qin Gan enjoyed his lunch backstage as usual. The swimsuit competition would begin in the afternoon. Ouyang Fen suddenly realized that the swimsuits would compliment Qin Guan, who made a living on both his figure and face. F*ck! I still have to keep an eye on this guy.

Ouyang Fen finished his swimsuit show confidently and was planning on mocking Qin Guan again. However, he was left speechless when he saw his enemy in a swimsuit. He stared angrily at him as Qin Guan shined brightly on the stage. He has slender legs and V-line abs! It's unfair! Why would god create such a man?

Qin Guan couldn't help laughing at Ouyang Fen behind the curtain. Are you kidding me? Ouyang Fen has surpassed Liu Xiaoyang and earned himself the annual award of the most childish person I know!

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Chapter 80: Bathing with an Enemy

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

While Qin Guan and Sister Xue were waiting off-site for the results of the quarter-final, Ou Qiang, Sister Xue's pursuer, approached them. As he joked around with them, Qin Guan was surprised to find out that the troublesome Ouyang Fen was only 16 years old.

He was three years younger than him. As he thought of his resolute, serious face, his 184 centimeters and his broad chest, Qin Guan couldn't help but laugh loudly. That's what we called contrast-cute in my past life!

The others didn't understand what Qin Guan was laughing about. Doesn't he look ridiculous for his age? Ouyang Fen's blank expression made him look like a war hero.

The organizing committee handed out notices to the group leaders of every area, who would be in charge of informing the contestants about the results. (Actually, they had to avoid being beaten by the contestants. The task of informing was often offensive.)

The person in charge of the capital looked at the notices. 30 persons would be selected from 190 contestants, so there would be an average of two finalists from every area.

That's pretty good. There are two contestants selected from my area. As expected, it's the winner and the runner-up. He handed the notices to them first.

Sister Xue waved the notice proudly at Ou Qiang. Her IQ had dropped from hanging out with those silly guys for so long.

The final of the New Face Model Competition would take place on August 28. Qin Guan let out a long breath. That would be the final kick at the goal line. This arduous competition has cost me more than half a year!

Sister Xue smiled to herself as she saw Qin Guan off. Finally, I've gotten the child on board. This is actually a short competition. There will be more time-consuming activities in the future. I'll force him to go at knife-point if I have to.

What a ferocious woman!

The autumn sky was clear, and the air was crisp. It was still dry and hot in the capital, and that's how it was like in the waiting area of the national final site as well. After an assembled training by the organizing committee, most of the contestants had mastered the basic process of the competition.

The first round of the national final was a group performance. The boys and the girls would be standing at two different places, and they would get on the stage together to demonstrate the theme of the final: Autumn.

The lights dimmed, and the colorful lamps on the stage were lit one after the other. The digital video started playing as the host stomped on the white smoke created by dry ice and walked to the front of the stage to announce the start of the national final.

The curtain rose, and 30 beautiful models filed out, walking on the stage one after the other. They were wearing new autumn outfits designed by Xie Feng, who was one of the judges.

Pairs of legs along with wheat ears, chilli and garlic (how did they get that in?) praised the pregnant autumn. Xie Feng nodded again and again off stage. The new models this year are of a much higher level compared to previous years. It seems like the Chinese fashion industry is being embraced throughout the country.

The models went around and formed a line again. They took a pose, pressing on their waists, holding their abs and exposing their legs. The advantage of the pose was that it showed everyone the size of their waists and the length of their legs. The difference was clear at first sight.

The girls got off the stage. While the male models got ready, the host introduced the concept of the autumn collection to create the right atmosphere and allow time for the judges to grade the female models.

When the male models got on the stage, everyone was shocked by the advanced designs of the rising designer. The colors of the outfits were in sharp contrast, and the wheat around the bottom of the pant legs reminded the audience of nature.

Special oil had been applied to the models' muscles to make their skin look like copper and their lines seem smoother. It was time to judge their bodies. The judges examined their figures and grade them silently before the models retreated backstage.

Sister Xue pulled Qin Guan over and pushed him toward the bathroom, urging him, "Quick, take a shower! Clean yourself all over. Understand?" Then she handed him a professional oil brush. "Ou Qiang is holding up two sprayers for you and Ouyang Fen. Be fast, or you'll be late!"

Qin Guan went inside, looking at the brush as he took off his clothes. "Shall I use it to brush someone else's back? But whose? Surely not Ou Qiang's? Obviously, it's for him!"

When Qin Guan entered the simple bathroom, he found Ouyang Fen taking an uncomfortable shower under a sprayer. A small pink brush was in his hand, the same brush as the blue one in Qin Guan's hand. When Ou Qiang saw Qin Guan, he shouted at him happily, "Hey, this sprayer is for you! I'll go find my baby Xue. You two have a nice shower..."

"..."

The two of them faced each other in silence, washing the oil off their bodies. More and more people started entering the bathroom, which made them feel better. They didn't know how to talk with someone hostile. Ouyang Fen seemed lost in thought as he stared at the pink brush in his hand.

Qin Guan decided to be magnanimous. He was older than Ouyang Fen by three years after all. Waving the blue brush, he said, "You don't like the pink one? I can brush your back with the blue one if you want."

Ouyang Fen nodded unconsciously and turned around. I'll be late for the next show.

Using the skills he had learned from his father, Qin Guan brushed Ouyang Fen's back quickly and turned his own back to him. Ouyang Fen seemed to be admiring him.

He felt the first brush. "F*ck, that hurts!" Qin Guan shouted, jumping away. Is he taking advantage of this to get back at me? I shouldn't have been kind to him!

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Chapter 81: The End of the Competition

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Ouyang Fen's expression was both ashamed and resentful as he held the pink brush in his hand.

"I... I've never brushed someone else's back before." He looked like a child standing in the corner for doing something naughty.

Qin Guan instructed him patiently, "Right, be careful. Move it from top to the bottom. Right... Is my back red? It doesn't matter, it'll get cleaner. Ah... oh... That feels so good..." Can you not sigh that way, dude? Look at how the models around you are looking at you.

After brushing Qin Guan's back clean, Ouyang Fen felt a sense of achievement. Qin Guan's back is smooth and clean. This was my first time ever brushing someone else's back. What a success! Ouyang Fen looked at the small pink brush. Pink sure is my lucky color. Shall I take this for my pink collection?

Ouyang Fen ran out of the bathroom happily at the thought and put the brush into his bag. Qin Guan changed into his swimming trunks and went outside. Sister Xue exploded at the sight of him.

"Did Ouyang Fen do this on purpose? There are three scratches on your back! I'll scratch his face!" Qin Guan stopped Sister Xue and pointed at his swimming trunks. "I think the scratches match my swimsuit well. The effect is excellent!"

Sister Xue looked at that essential part of Qin Guan and saw a bloody scratch print on both ends of the swimming trunks. It gave off a wild, sexy vibe. Combined with the scratches on his back, they complimented each other and inspired the audience.

Sister Xue patted him on the back excitedly. "Good boy! You are really smart and creative!" Qin Guan smiled to himself. Is this what they call an accidental positive outcome?

Meanwhile, Ouyang Fen had already gotten off the stage and turned in Qin Guan's direction hesitantly. Brushing your back was just an accident. We are still enemies. I will crush you one day.

Qin Guan smiled brightly and got on the T stage, following the rhythm of the music. The judges started talking heatedly when he got close.

"Look at his figure and face! Superb!"

"Yes, I'm impressed. He was the winner of the capital competition. His total score was the best one in the national quarter-final."

"A good result. He's in perfect shape, and his style is mature. How old is he?"

"Nineteen. He's got great potential. He is 186 centimeters tall. Two more centimeters would have been better though. If he was 188 cm, he'd even be able to walk on an international runway."

They were still talking when Qin Guan turned around. They grew even more excited when they saw his back.

"Look at his back!"

"Where did he get that idea? That's so brave of him! His swimming trunks go well with the scratches."

"He is so clever! It's only scratches, no scars, no blood, no harm to his body. What a genius!" (Overkill, dude. Believe me, you have no idea what really happened.)

"That's the feeling! It looks like a theme show in Europe. He took it to the next level."

"Good idea. Maybe I could use it for a swimsuit show in the future."

They didn't give their full attention to the rest of the models after Qin Guan returned backstage.

Sister Xue handed him his clothes before the jealous onlookers, encouraging him, "Cheer up! There's still one more round to go!"

The final round was a photo competition. Models had to perform well and take outstanding poses of comprehensive quality.

Top models had to have a strong sense of the camera and be easy to cooperate with. They would all take turns walking on the stage and the photographers of the competition would take candid photographs of them. Then the judges would put all the photos together and compare them.

"Click, click..." Several cameras snapped pictures simultaneously. The flashes and the steps of the models were combined into a specific rhythm. Finally, all the contestants gathered on the stage, the photographers took a group photo, and they returned backstage to wait for the results.

They were strolling around anxiously, talking in low voices. The atmosphere was charged. Off stage, the judges were busy with the final scores of the models. The assistant handed the final list to the host, who announced the results over the background music.

Ouyang Fen looked unconsciously at Qin Guan, who seemed totally oblivious to everything. He was chewing bubble gum leisurely.

What the hell is he doing? How can he still care about eating right now? Dude, is that Dada bubble gum? I want a pink strawberry one!

"The winner is Qin Guan from the capital, who won the popular vote!"

When the results were announced, the contestants started hugging each other goodbye. There were plenty of people surrounding the judges. Assistants and agents tried to suck up to them, holding their cards in their hands in an effort to promote their models.

Qin Guan and Ouyang Fen, the luckiest guys in the competition, had won both a bonus outdoor photo-shoot in the capital and a small review from "Capital Fashion" magazine.

A journalist of a local printed media with a small readership was inspired by the fact that there were two contestants from the capital in the competition.

They are the winner and runner-up of both the national final and the capital competition. How dramatic! They supported each other and fought together. Hand in hand, they overcame all the difficulties and defeated the contestants from all other areas.

The journalist was full of passion as he looked at the two guys sitting in chairs. On the left, Ouyang Fen was grinding his teeth with a sour expression on his face. He was holding two awards in his arms. On the right, Qin Guan picked up a prize cup and put it on a table at random, saying helplessly, "I can't hold so many awards!"

The journalist was confused. What's going on?

Qin Guan's words provoked Ouyang Fen's rebelling nature. He suddenly stood up and shouted, "You bastard!" Before he could continue, Qin Guan pointed at the journalist, and Ouyang Fen withered at once.

The journalist smiled awkwardly. Anyhow, I'll just write a short article about them. I'd better finish the interview quickly and run away. It seems that the two of them have a tense relationship.

He could imagine the mutual enmity between them off-site, and he asked some basic questions quickly before running away with his notebook.

Ouyang Fen was dragged off by his cousin as he shouted loudly, "I'll be back!" He had to nurture their love-hate relationship. Humming, Qin Guan put his diplomas and awards in his large bag and got into Sister Xue's car.

When they reached his college, Sister Xue gave Qin Guan a thick envelope before he got off the car. "Your prize for the competition." Then she drove away with an elegant turn, leaving smoke behind her. It seemed fair to Qin Guan. He climbed upstairs, jumping the steps two and three at a time with his large bag and the envelope.

Rushing into his dormitory, he threw the bag down and opened the envelope excitedly. A pile of 100-yuan bills fell on his bed.

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Chapter 82: An Honourable Sophomore

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

One hundred, two hundred... Qin Guan counted the bills by spitting on his fingers. My fingers are too dry, I might as well wet them with my spit...Six thousand nine hundred, seven thousand... Seven thousand? Why seven thousand? One hundred, two hundred... It was seven thousand! Qin Guan counted the bills again.

It should have been 10,000 yuan. Why did I only get 7,000? He suddenly recalled Sister Xue's expression when she had handed him the envelope. She had looked satisfied to him. Right, she must have felt great about taking 3,000 yuan for handling fees!

Several days ago, Qin Guan had generously given Sister Xue 600 yuan. At the time, he had said that it was handling money, but Sister Xue had said it was charity.

So 600 yuan was charity, yet 3,000 yuan was not? That exploiting Sister Xue! Crying, Qin Guan fell on his bed. 3,000 yuan were gone! His fate was decided. Forget it. I'll just cry myself to sleep.

The new term began in autumn. Cherishing their dreams, young boys and girls stepped onto the campus of the colleges they wanted to attend. The bustling crowd and the parents coming in in great numbers had no influence on Qin Guan, who had been defrauded by his roommates.

The day after the competition, his roommates had returned to college, fighting with each other. As an honorable cadre of the Students Union, Ye Dong's priority was looking after his roommates.

What should the Students Union do to strengthen the brilliant image of our university and provide freshmen with better services? Please shout with me! Serve the people!

At the end of the summer, amid intense heat, Qin Guan was forced by Ye Dong to pick up freshmen from the railway station. It was an honorable, but tedious task.

If he had been assigned to guide freshmen around the campus or serve at the reception, Qin Guan wouldn't have complained. Sending him to the Capital Railway Station to pick up freshmen was senior oppression though. Their ulterior motive was to prevent Qin Guan from attracting all the junior female students with his charm. As a result, he was assigned the most time-consuming, painstaking task.

Three days before the new term began, there had to be staff at the reception of the railway station 24 hours a day. Several groups of students and tutors were on duty on eight-hour shifts.

Qin Guan was in charge of the morning shift, when the workload was the heaviest. He and Wang Lei were in the same group. His eldest brother was fascinated by paperwork.

They wore their student uniforms to impress the parents and promote the image of the college, as well as the beauty of the city. This creative idea had been the principal's, who had remembered that a batch of school uniforms had been made. He had asked Secretary Liu to find the uniforms and use them to promote the image of the university.

Following the principal's directions, Secretary Liu along with Grandpa Zhang, the inventory keeper, had taken the stock out. The students of the Public Relations Department had almost collapsed under the weight of the uniforms.

The fashionable royal blue khaki pants, white long-sleeved shirts and warrior shoes gave off an honorable 1960s vibe.

They also wore red scarves on their chests. We love our hometown.

As Qin Guan and Wang Lei left their dormitory in their uniforms, Liu Xiaoyang was laughing so hard that he fell on the floor. The two of them reminded him of Xiao Ming and Xiao Hua [1]. Surrounded by the students of the whole dormitory, the two fellow martyrs got on a shuttle bus headed for the Capital Railway Station.

Several shuttle buses were carrying freshmen between the college and the railway station. Qin Guan and Wang Lei had been assigned to help the tutors.

When they arrived at the reception, the students there were busy with work. The students in charge of guidance were running around sweating, and those holding the poster of the university felt like they would suffer from varicose veins. They let out a relieved sigh when they saw the assistants arrive. We are exhausted from work!

The seniors, who were carrying luggage for younger girls on campus were smiling to themselves. Don't make the same mistake we did. As sophomores, we were exploited by seniors, so now we're playing the same trick on sophomores ourselves. You might think yourself a prince, but we have our own way of defeating you. We'll make you lose points before lovely girls and make a bad first impression. We sure love the principal. That uniform does indeed harm one's appearance!

That's what the seniors were thinking, but they were bound to lose all hope when they saw Qin Guan. Reality was cruel, and Qin Guan's appearance was still unbeatable.

Anyone wearing loose pants and a shabby shirt would have been reduced from an eight to a six. However, Qin Guan had upgraded the uniform to an eight. With his long legs and slim waist, Qin Guan was confident about his style. The uniform looked casual on his body.

Qin Guan and Wang Lei carried a small table to the square to set up a simple reception desk by the entrance. Some people who had been squatting there stood up and walked over.

"Hey, young man. Do you know the rules here?" their leader asked Qin Guan.

"What rules?" Qin Guan had no idea what he meant. Is there a new policy in the railway station? Or is there a regulation for picking up freshmen?

"All small hotels have their own turf. Understand?"

"They seem like green hands. Who sent you here without making sure you knew the rules first?"

"You were about to set up a table here. Weren't you afraid you'd be caught by the administrative staff?"

"That's it! Go squat over there and learn something useful first..."

They had mistaken Qin Guan and Wang Lei for competition. Their uniforms made them look like hotel idlers looking for customers. Qin Guan had failed to notice that about his appearance. Actually, if they had been at the railway station looking for customers, they would have dressed neatly.

It was nonsense that beautiful people looked beautiful even in trash bags. People had to pay attention to their looks. The men were trying to persuade them kind-heartedly, when Wang Lei silently took out a large plate with the college's name on it and set it on the table.

Notes

[1] Two fictional characters often appearing in middle school textbooks.

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Chapter 83: A Strong Girl

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

"They are college students."

"Yes, they are. Why didn't they tell us earlier?"

Qin Guan and Wang Lei were sad to see the men go.

...

Mou Xiaoliu was also feeling sad. She had completely lost her way. The passengers moving to-and-fro watched the petite girl carrying two large bags as she shuttled down the hall, the corridors and the bus stops.

The two bags she was carrying on her shoulders were almost as tall as she was. Her face wasn't red, and she was not breathing heavily, but the sweat on her forehead showed that she was a little hot from running. When she reached the square again, she finally saw the poster of the Capital University of Finance and Economics.

Reassured, she calmed down. After moving the bags further up on her shoulders, she carefully sped up. As she walked, she was thinking about the pickles her mother had made, wondering if they had spilled when she had been walking fast.

The girl reached the reception and looked at the savior standing behind the table with shinning eyes. Thank god they put such a large poster on the square, or I'd be searching for a long time! Oh my! My savior is so good-looking! He's 100 times more handsome than the language teacher in Taohua Town. Mou Xiaoliu considered this her lucky day. She had finally arrived at the capital after a long trip and numerous trials, enrolled at the university of her dreams, and met a handsome upperclassman. For Mou Xiaoliu, life couldn't get any better.

Qin Guan looked up and saw a small girl with red, round cheeks. She was just standing in front of the table with shinning eyes, watching him silently in a silly, yet cute way.

He smiled at the girl. "Are you a fellow student? Are you a freshman at our university?"

The little girl nodded silently with a silly smile. Qin Guan smiled back and asked, "Did you bring your admission letter? I can help you register."

The girl came back to her senses and nodded hard. She put the large bags down carefully and took her admission letter out of a pocket on her chest.

Checking the letter, Qin Guan wrote her name down on the freshmen list. As he handed the letter back to her, he warned her, "Keep it safe."

Mou Xiaoliu nodded again. She put the letter back in her pocket and tried to pick up the two bags.

The bags were too big for a little girl, so Qin Guan stood up, said something to Wang Lei, and told Mou Xiaoliu that he would carry one of them to the shuttle bus for her.

Mou Xiaoliu was happy that he offered, but she waved her hands in an effort to stop him. "I don't need help, I can manage myself. My luggage is quite heavy."

Qin Guan smiled with confidence. Are you kidding? If a little girl like you can carry two bags, a strong young man like me can carry one without breaking a sweat. Qin Guan picked up the larger bag with one hand and tried to lift it. The bag remained completely still. It seems like I underestimated the enemy. He exerted all his strength again, but the bag didn't move.

Wang Lei buried his face behind the table. I'm sorry, dude, but I can't bear to watch. Embarrassed, Qin Guan stole a glance at Mou Xiaoliu, who was still looking at him in admiration. Alas, the upperclassman might not be stronger than Da Niu in my village, but he is indeed handsome.

My girl, good looks do not equal strength.

Qin Guan secretly let out a relieved breath when he saw that the girl wasn't showing disdain at his weakness. No man could bear to be called useless. Grinding his back teeth, he suddenly used all his strength, lifting the bag up to his shoulder.

Ignoring his wicked friend Wang Lei, who was laughing loudly on the side, Qin Guan told Mou Xiaoliu proudly, "Follow me to the shuttle." Mou Xiaoliu lifted the other bag with one hand and carried it on her shoulder with ease, following Qin Guan happily.

As she walked with him, she was still wondering why the other upperclassman had been laughing so much. Little girl, there's an old saying that says, 'In the eye of the lover, his beloved is always a beauty'. You are completely ignoring his weak, faltering steps, because you're focused on his butt.

Breathing heavily, Qin Guan managed to keep moving forward. On the way, he told Mou Xiaoliu, "Follow the tutor to the reception after you get off the bus. Hand in the education and dormitory fees first."

Mou Xiaoliu nodded tactfully.

After taking another breath, Qin Guan went on, "Put away your receipt and train ticket to the capital. You can get a refund for them."

"Read carefully all the materials, including the 'College Student Tutorial', 'Life Guidance for College Students', and the special freshmen issues in our university magazine."

Mou Xiaoliu nodded again. I can get a refund for my ticket. That's great!

Qin Guan helped her lift her luggage to the compartment above her head as he advised her kind-heartedly, "Ask the upperclassman on this bus for help when you get off. You're such a petite girl. Be careful so you don't drop them."

Before she could express her appreciation, Qin Guan added, "Leave your telephone number to your tutor and the teacher in charge of your class. It will be useful in the future. This year, our university will grant student loans to all students who qualify. You can consult with the teacher in charge when you pay the fees."

Mou Xiaoliu was close to tears. He is so kind. I'll be the happiest girl in my village! She took a bow before Qin Guan and said loudly, "Thank you so much! I'll do my best!" Then she looked up at him with her shinning eyes.

Looking around, Qin Guan felt a little embarrassed by her sincere appreciation. He waved the silly little girl off. "Don't mention it, it's my duty. The bus is nearly full. Take care of yourself. I'll off!" He greeted his fellow students and tutors on the bus shyly before running away as fast as he could.

When he got back to the reception, Wang Lei was busy with registrations. Qin Guan rushed to help him relieve the pressure. When the wave of students got on the bus, Wang Lei turned to Qin Guan and started to laugh again, remembering the previous scene.

Qin Guan tried to explain awkwardly, "The bag was really heavy. It might have been 50 kilos. I wonder what she'd put inside."

Wang Lei shook his head and touched his glasses, pretending to be serious as he asked gloatingly, "My fellow student, this is the first time you fail to look cool in a really long time. What's your opinion on this?"

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Chapter 84: The Hapless Duo

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

What choice did Qin Guan have? Who knew that that little girl would have been blessed with such great strength? No matter what others thought, the girl had impressed him a lot. If Mou Xiaoliu had known that Qin Guan was talking about her with his roommates, she would have been over the moon.

While she rode the shuttle bus, she asked the upperclassman there some questions.

"Do you know the upperclassman at the reception?"

"Of course, practically all the sophomores at our college know him."

"Is he that popular? That's good. What's his name? I'd like to thank him again if I meet him in the future."

The student smiled automatically as he answered, "He has too many titles. They call him the Handsome Straight-A Accounting Student, the Dancing Childe, and the College Heart-breaker. But his real name is Qin Guan."

Mou Xiaoliu recited the titles carefully in her mind twice before nodding at the upperclassman.

When the bus stopped, the upperclassman experienced Qin Guan's earlier struggle. He had to carry the two bags off the bus with shaking legs.

As Mou Xiaoliu walked to the reception with her bags, she was thinking, "Daddy, the people here are all kind. Everything has gone smoothly so far. But the students in my college are all weak. It seems like I'll have to help them a lot in the future."

A whole bus of students had finished enrolling, yet Qin Guan wasn't feeling any better.

The hot sun was high in the sky as they ran around on the square without any shade. They kept talking with students and parents until their mouths felt dry and their tongues scorched. When their replacements arrived, they found them lying on the table like withered cucumbers.

Qin Guan and Wang Lei decided to bring an umbrella the next day.

They took the shuttle home, and the first thing they did when they entered their dormitory was take a bath. In his underpants, Qin Guan poured warm water on his body with a red bucket. Cool! They both felt refreshed after the bath.

Wrapping his large towel around his head, Qin Guan grinned at Wang Lei. "Do I look like a tank soldier?" They pretended to fight as they went out of the bathroom. Suddenly, they were surprised to see girls standing in the corridor.

The two of them were the top students in the whole college. Wang Lei had a high IQ, but hanging out with Qin Guan for too long seemed to have lowered it. He had even forgotten that it was a special day.

It was enrolment day, so there were lots of freshmen with their parents as well as many idlers moving around the building. The boys looked at each other in silent despair. The two of them were standing there in just their underpants, water drops rolling down their bodies. At least we look strong...

Qin Guan and Wang Lei pretended to be calm. They exchanged a glance as they walked confidently in their slippers, trying to look nonchalant. When they finally pushed the door to their room open, they exhaled in relief. Oh my! We were naked in public. We might have had our underpants on, but people still saw our bare chests!

They acted like nothing had happened, taking advantage of their selective memory.

When everyone returned, Ye Dong was beaten by Qin Guan and Wang Lei, who blamed all their misfortunes on him. It was because of Ye Dong's promotion that they had attracted the attention of the tutors. At the thought that they would have to do this job again and again in the following days, they ground their teeth.

"Bang, bang..." With bumps all over his head, Ye Dong went to the cafeteria for dinner with them, ordering extra carbonado legs to compensate for his friends' energy loss, not only that day, but also for the days to come.

...…

When they arrived at the station the next day, they realized that one chicken leg was not enough for the work they did.

It was raining, and the small table couldn't be set up. The fellow sufferers stood under an umbrella on the square, getting mud on their pants. The passing labor workers reminded them kindly, "Silly boys, you could wait in the hall!"

"Poor them! They only have the one umbrella!"

They had been mistaken for labor workers! Wang Lei silently ran back to the shuttle bus to get the college board.

"They are students. They're working so hard!"

The labor workers left. The two boys standing in the rain were like symbols that could be seen from afar. The tutor in the shuttle bus was relieved. "I hadn't expected them to be so dedicated."

Because of the rainy weather, the staff of the railway station had allowed all buses from different colleges to park across the square. All the passengers could see them clearly as soon as they disembarked. Suddenly, Wang Lei rushed out with the board without listening to the instructions of the tutor. The tutor had just praised them for their enthusiasm. Would he admit that they were silly after all?

Definitely not!

Qin Guan didn't know that there was a change until he sent the first group of students and their parents off. He immediately ran to the square to share the news with Wang Lei, and they returned together with the second group.

Ashamed of their IQ, they remained silent until they got back to their dormitory. Their wet clothes were pasted on their bodies, making them feel miserable. They took them off as soon as possible. Their shirts were torn apart, and the pants held up by an elastic cord fell down on the floor.

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Chapter 85: Misfortunes Come in Pairs

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Suddenly, the squeaky door was pushed open and they heard Ye Dong speaking loudly from outside, "It doesn't matter. Come in, please. There's no one sleeping in our dormitory right now. Come on in, we can play cards!"

When Ye Dong saw the girls staring at something speechlessly, he turned around. The three boys had identical shocked expressions on their faces. F*ck! Qin Guan and Wang Lei were naked before an audience again!

Wang Lei's upper body was bare, and Qin Guan was in his colorful Calabash Brothers shorts.

Ye Dong realized that this would cost him a lot.

Sniffing, Qin Guan pulled his pants up calmly. No big deal. Compared to yesterday's disaster, this is nothing.

Wang Lei didn't care. I have no boobs after all.

Qin Guan pulled his pants up and waved at the girls shamelessly. "Come on in. Let's play cards!"

The onlookers were so shocked by his attitude that they dropped everything in their hands to the floor.

The girls entered the dormitory as if nothing had happened.

Li Jie shut off his computer and made room for them on the largest table in the dormitory.

Some people had private affairs to attend to, but the rest were divided into teams by lottery.

Wang Lei and Qin Guan were in one team, and Yang Jing and Ye Dong were in another. The two girls were in one team each. Wang Lei, Qin Guan and a chubby girl made up one team.

They began to shuffle the cards. Yang Jing was unsatisfied with the plain deck, and she wanted to punish the losers to make the game more fun.

Therefore, they decided that the winners would draw tortoises and paste post-its on the losers' faces.

The challenging game began. They competed in "twos".

Ye Dong threw a diamond two down and got on the offensive. After two rounds, Wang Lei and Qin Guan were losing by a lot. Unlucky guys couldn't blame anyone but themselves. They had only three poor diamonds in their hands, so nothing could help them.

The chubby girl put down a card, then looked at the rest of her cards carefully. Suddenly, she shouted, "Oh! I could have gained the advantage with a pair of twos, right?"

Qin Guan and Wang Lei nodded as she confessed, "I had two hearts, but I forgot."

After playing for a while, the chubby girl made a mistake that caused them to lose. Staring down at the good cards in his hand, Qin Guan blamed her subconsciously. "Did you forget how to play?"

The girl was very shy. After a long while, she said, "I was thinking of Calabash Brothers."

Bang!

Li Jie had fallen off the bed.

What could Qin Guan say? What dared he say?

He could only advise the girl, "Pay attention, please."

The fat girl grinned and patted her chest, promising, "Don't worry, I'm the queen of cards."

Qin Guan and Wang Lei mustered all their courage to finish the game. As expected, they were destroyed. They got one post-it and one tortoise each.

Oh, no! Qin Guan got two tortoises and one post-it, and Wang Lei got two post-its and one tortoise. The girls were their guests, so the two gentlemen took the punishment for them.

"Ah! I broke up the successive cards!" The chubby girl made another mistake.

Ye Dong and his partner were promoted to the highest level. They had reached a "four". More post-its and tortoises were pasted on Qin Guan's and Wang Lei's faces.

"Oh, no! 'Four' was the King. I was wrong!" There was an abundance of tortoises. Finally, Ye Dong's team reached a "Five". Liu Xiaoyang drew more tortoises with ease.

After one round, the girls returned to their own dormitory in satisfaction. On their way back, they were talking about Qin Guan.

"He has a good figure."

"Yeah, it's pretty good."

"Calabash Brothers..."

"Ha, ha, ha..."

When the girls were gone, Qin Guan and Wang Lei turned to Ye Dong angrily, the post-its on their faces flying in the air.

Everyone else pointed at them and laughed. "Could you please wash your faces first?"

The two of them went outside with their basins and soap.

Suddenly, a group of parents and students with a guiding tutor passed and saw the two silly students with post-its on their faces.

Silence prevailed. Finally, Qin Guan and Wang Lei went through the crowd and into the bathroom, pretending that nothing had happened.

The parents pretended not to see anything either. They remained silent until the tutor had left. Then some of them pulled over their children and urged them, "Try to get along with your roommates. If they bully you, tell us and we'll beat them."

A mother's boy had been shocked by Qin Guan, but he was comforted by his mother's words. I'm well-behaved. Those college guys are terrible!

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Chapter 86: The Troublesome Girl

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Qin Guan and Wang Lei were ready to explode. They washed their faces in the bathroom and pushed the door open with a bang.

When Ye Dong saw that the two of them were on the verge of starting a fight, he pushed his chest out and took a mighty pose. With wide-open eyes, he shouted, "Come on! Forgive me!" He surrendered immediately. The onlookers and his two rivals were left speechless.

Contented, Qin Guan picked up a toothpick and held it in his mouth. Shaking his legs out proudly, he asked in a serious voice, "You know the rules, don't you?"

Looking at Qin Guan gratefully, Ye Dong answered like a little girl, "At your service."

Li Jie spit out a mouthful of water as he watched them. You two are such drama queens. This is disgusting! We'll lose our appetite for supper because of your performance.

Ye Dong was forced to sign a contract with humiliating terms. The contract read as follows:

Ye Dong is a criminal who disregarded the friendship between brothers, thus committing one of the most heinous offences in the world. For 10 days, he has to treat his charitable friends, Qin Guan and Wang Lei, to dinner at Gui Street.

The dinner has to include a portion of spicy hot crays, a plate of boiled green soy beans and peanuts, and a portion of salty yellow croakers. Beer is also mandatory. Qin Guan and Wang Lei have the right to add any extra dishes that they wish at the restaurant.

Signature: Ye Dong. Date: August 30th, 1999

Qin Guan and Wang Lei put the contract away and went to sleep. Tomorrow will be the last day.

…..

September 1st was Commencement Day. The freshmen enjoyed the golden autumn. Qin Guan was a sophomore though, so he was busy with courses and paid no attention to younger girls.

Besides, there was already a young girl waiting for him. It was the weekend, so he had to go to Huang Jiajia's home. This would be their first lesson for the new semester.

Whenever he thought of the journey to Bashang for the photoshoot, Qin Guan got a headache. I have to ask Huang Jiajia for a day off. What will she do? Roll around on the floor in tears? Cry and shout? Stop. Just stop it. Qin Guan decided to play it by ear.

When he got there, he asked her mother for a day off, and she agreed without hesitation. Then Qin Guan walked to Huang Jiajia's room and pushed the door open. As expected, she had been eavesdropping. When the door opened suddenly, it hit her nose, leaving a red mark on her face.

Qin Guan burst into laughter at the sight of her covering her nose tearfully.

He knocked the books against her head playfully. "Stop joking around. Let's start our lesson!"

Huang pointed at Qin Guan angrily. "You liar! You took advantage of my feelings!" Qin Guan hastened to close the door. "What are you talking about? That's nonsense!"

Huang Jianjia sat down at her desk. "Liar, liar! I heard what you said to my mum. You had promised to buy me snacks!" She stooped over the desk, crying sadly.

Qin Guan sat down next to her helplessly and tried to explain. "Could you please respect me and call me sir? You are really brave. Now stop crying, or your mum might think I'm bullying you."

Huang Jiajia cried even louder.

"Okay, princess, I surrender. Stop, listen to me!"

She continued to cry.

"I promised to treat you to snacks if your scores were all above B."

Huang Jiajia's crying subsided and turned into groans and moans.

She is guilty of unreasonable behavior. Qin Guan smiled to himself as he went on, "I asked for a day off for business, not for fun. I have to go to a magazine photoshoot."

Huang Jiajia suddenly looked up and asked excitedly, "What kind of photoshoot? What magazine? I want to buy it!"

That was a quick change! Qin Guan fixed his eyes on her face, but he couldn't find any signs of crying. Except for her red nose, the rest of her face looked quite clean.

I was cheated! She was only pretending to cry! Qin Guan was really angry. That little girl is a talented liar! Her white little bra flashed in his mind at the thought.

Stop, stop, stop! Qin Guan shook his head unconsciously in an effort to push the wicked thought away. Pretending to be calm, he told her, "You have to study first. I'll take you out when your scores are announced."

Realizing he had seen through her, Huang stuck her tongue out and picked up her textbook obediently. Before opening it, she asked again, "Hey, what kind of part-time job is it?"

I love that question! Qin Guan had the chance to show off again. Her mother forgot to ask me earlier, which deprived me of the chance to brag.

Qin Guan coughed and adjusted his sitting position before answering in his typical indifferent way, "It's not a part-time job, which is very annoying! The chief editor of the magazine begged me to help him. I was too kind to say no when he was crying, so I accepted the job. In fact, it's an unrewarding task. There will be no extra bonus besides the daily wage."

Qin Guan straightened up.

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Chapter 87: The Sleeping Teacher

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Huang Jiajia asked in admiration, "Teacher Qin, you are a part-time model, aren't you? Is that why the chief editor knows you and asked you for help?"

Qin Guan wanted to weep, but was unable to produce any tears. Huang Jiajia, you are so clever and to the point! Why don't you use that IQ during your lessons? Looking at her shining eyes, Qin Guan decided to tell her.

Opening her new textbook at random, he answered calmly, "I signed a contract with New Silk Road, and my agent sent me to a competition to have a try. I won accidentally."

Qin Guan felt that was a complete answer, and so did Huang Jiajia. I know more about him now. What shall I do? He looks even more attractive to me.

It took Qin Guan more than 10 minutes to comfort her. Then he organized his thoughts and tapped the textbook with his pen. "So much for chatting. Let's start our lesson. We'll begin with Math." The first class of the new semester was relatively simple. Qin Guan helped Huang Jiajia with the new knowledge points of the book and asked her to practice.

Then he looked at his watch and realized that half the time had passed. While she exercised, he read his own textbook and relaxed.

Ever since he had returned to college, Qin Guan had been really busy. He was slightly ashamed for boasting to his student before he had even showed off to his roommates.

I'm sleepy. My eyes are closing. Despite his tough mind, Qin Guan fell asleep while he read his book.

When Huang Jiajia finished her exercises and looked up, she found him leaning against her bed in a reading posture, using the teddy bear under his body as a pillow.

Huang Jiajia smiled before standing up carefully and sneaking up to the bed. Qin Guan's mouth was open, and saliva was dripping out. His hair covered his face softly, shaking with his breath.

Huang Jiajia touched him with a barrette, which shook slightly as it scratched his face. Qin Guan frowned, but didn't wake up. Huang Jiajia stepped forward and sat on the bed, craning her neck toward Qin Guan's face.

It was a perfect face, with smooth skin, dashing eyebrows, a high nose, and thin lips. His beautiful eyes were shut beneath his long eyelashes. That handsome face must have charmed numerous girls! At the thought that she was one of them, Huang Jiajia felt wronged.

I know that he has a girlfriend, but I can't get him out of my mind. If I don't have something that belongs to him, I'll be devastated. In her imagination, she was the heroine in a tragedy and a dissatisfied girl in a boudoir. Stop, you drama queen!

Huang Jiajia smiled as her lips approached Qin Guan.

Both their faces were red, his from sleep and hers from nervousness. Her lips were getting closer and closer, like a pink rose in early puberty. Right before touching his skin, the rose suddenly bloomed open. "Qin Guan! Get up!" Huang Jiajia shouted by his ear.

Qin Guan got up dizzily, his ears ringing and his saliva finally falling off. "Eh, that's disgusting!" Huang Jiajia took out her handkerchief to wipe his mouth.

Qin Guan was still dizzy. Who the hell would wake up their teacher in such a way? I shouldn't treat the naughty child kindly!

He massaged his swelling head and felt his ear go back to normal. It's late, let's call it a day. Then he stood up and knocked on Huang Jiajia's head. "Call me sir. That's it for today. Remember to review the course. I'll check your exercises when I return next week."

Huang Jiajia ground her teeth as she covered her head. That's twice you've hurt me today. I'll pay you back.

Then she saw Qin Guan off. Before he left, Huang Jiajia said in front of her mother, "Teacher Qin, take me to Carrefour when you come back."

Qin Guan stopped as Huang showed off before her mother. "Mum, Teacher Qin will treat me. Tell me if there's something you want us to get for you."

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Chapter 88: The Fun Journey to the Grassland

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Fine, Huang Jiajia. You wait and see. Smiling shyly at her mother, Qin Guan left.

After several threats by Sister Xue, she and Qin Guan followed the magazine operation car in Sister Xue's car, headed for the Bashang Grassland.

The Bashang Grassland was located in the Manchu Autonomous County of Fengning, north of the capital. It was the natural grassland closest to the capital, also known as the First Grassland North of Beijing.

The rich, beautiful grassland had plenty of water and lush grass. The seasons there were distinct, and the scenery was different by daylight and by night. It was a photographer's paradise.

The golden autumn had changed the scenery. After several months of frost, the pines, spruces and white birches were ready begin the most splendid period of their lives.

The "Models" magazine had chosen the Willow Valley as its destination. The group got there in the evening. The country home inn they had contacted in advance was ready to receive them.

The villager and his wife had cleaned all the rooms, and their small farmyard was soon filled with lodgers.

Qin Guan found his room.

The guestroom was clean and simple. A small beige table was on the tidy adobe kang [1, which was a unique delight in the wild.

Qin Guan put his luggage on the table and went to check the small bathroom. There was only a personal washbasin and a chamber pot in it. Qin Guan unpacked his luggage and changed into a comfortable pullover before going out. He had to do something about his hungry stomach.

When they sat down around the big table, the couple served them hot traditional dishes.

The accommodation there cost only 50 yuan per day, including a room and three meals. If the guests ordered any more food, they would be charged extra.

Qin Guan was so hungry that, at the director's cue, he immediately buried his face in a large bowl of rice.

The potatoes and ribs were soft and tasty, and the fried egg with spring onion was delicious. The best dish was the fried beef with vegetables though. That dish made them unable to control their chopsticks.

While Qin Guan was busy filling his mouth with food, Ouyang Fen couldn't bear the sight of it. He had been in a bad mood the whole day. I'm a careful man who looks after himself. I shouldn't have come here with so many tough guys. The shabby, large minibus had jolted so hard on the way there that his bottom was still hurting. He wasn't in the mood to eat.

Before he could complain though, his arch enemy had begun to eat as if there was no one else present.

What bad manners! There's a grain of rice on his face. Why has everyone gone crazy over such simple food? Ouyang Fen was lost in his thoughts amid the sound of chopsticks and plates clanging.

Well, they had to eat, or else Qin Guan would eat everything on the table. His speed had awakened everyone's appetite.

Is it that delicious? Ouyang Fen poked at the fried eggs with his chopsticks, because that was the dish that looked the most attractive to him. Another pair of chopsticks got there before him though and picked up the last piece of fried eggs.

Looking around him blankly, Ouyang Fen realized that the owner of the chopsticks was Qin Guan. It's not about the food, it's about dignity! Ouyang Fen cheered up and started grabbing food like everyone else.

Looking at him happily, his cousin told Sister Xue, "Young men always have a big appetite." Everyone looked serious. If we didn't, we'd starve tonight.

Sister Xue wouldn't have that though. She kicked Qin Guan under the table, warning him, "Slow down. There's a whole roasted lamb coming. Save room in your stomach."

Qin Guan stopped, but regained speed again soon enough. He answered ambiguously, chewing on a mouthful of beef, "I'm still growing. I'll be hungry again in a bit."

Several grains of rice flew out of his mouth and landed in Ouyang Fen's bowl. Ouyang Fen wasn't paying any attention though. He was too busy struggling with his ribs. Sister Xue and Qin Guan stared at each other for a second before pretending that nothing had happened.

When all the plates were clean, a bucket of rice had been eaten. The landlady was really pleased and proud of her cooking skills. Her husband looked glad himself as he rolled the lamb above the fire. Lamb dishes were the most common in the grassland because that meat was the best in quality. Oil was dripping into the fire fragrantly.

Intoxicated by the breeze of the early autumn in the grassland, everyone felt inspired. When they smelled the lamb though, they suddenly started shouting.

"I'm too full. I forgοt about the lamb!"

"I beat you! I have some spare place in my stomach. Ha, ha, ha..."

The biggest losers were the Ou brothers. One of them had had very little food because he was on a diet, and the other one had failed to beat Qin Guan at an eating contest.

The couple carried the lamb to the table. It was a crisp, fragrant golden brown roast lamb. The pink-and-white meat was easy to tear off. In a few minutes, the tender meat was torn off the skeleton and placed on their plates.

Silence prevailed as everyone filled their mouths with lamb. It was really late at night, and the mosquitoes in the grassland went out silently to join the feast...

The next morning, everyone was shouting loudly.

"There are so many bumps on my face!"

Nothing could stop the mosquitoes on the grassland. They were stronger and more resolute than their counterparts in urban areas for they had to fight against the strong wind and different kinds of animals for food.

Qin Guan got up from the kang and entered the bathroom in his slippers.

Why is my butt so itchy? He touched his butt unconsciously. F*ck! There were two big bumps on it. One was on the right side, and the other was on the left side. At least they are in a private place.

Qin Guan went out in his riding attire and saw that the other models were in the same outfit as well. The slim riding boots reached as high as their knees, the fitting breeches complimented their long legs, and the white shirt and black belt added elegance to the outfits.

The shooting was about a horsemanship competition on the grassland. The protagonist was an actual contestant, invited by the sponsor of the competition. The six models promoted by the magazine were just going to be in the background.

As they started for the shooting site, Qin Guan noticed that Ouyang Fen's face had also been marked by mosquitoes. A large red bump was on his right eyelid, and there was light shining from the little slit of his eye. Even the most compassionate assistant couldn't help but laugh.

To Ouyang Fen's surprise, Qin Guan remained silent. What's wrong with him?

Qin Guan was not in the mood to laugh at others. The bumps on his butt were itchy, and it hurt to sit on the shaking seat.

When they got off the car, everyone was fascinated by the scenery.

It was early autumn in the valley, and there were yellow birches, green spruces, pink bushes and verdant pines everywhere. Red fruit was hanging from Shanding trees. What a beautiful scenery! On the grassland, fleets were just like bright clouds, blooming on the green slope of the mountain and adding an extra brush to the painting-like picture.

The staff of the horsemanship competition were waiting for them as fine horses were chewing on hay leisurely behind the fences. The protagonist was still on his way. The Mongolian staff prepared the horses for the models first.

The director of the competition walked towards them and asked, "Who can ride?" They all looked at each other. Despite his bumpy eye, Ouyang Fen held his hand up. "I can." Another female model held her hand up hesitantly. "A little."

The director waved at the Mongolian young men. "Baiyin and Buhe, come here and help." They loosened the bridle reins and came over. Pointing at the four models on the left, the director said, "Teach them the basic riding skills so they can cope with the photoshoot."

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Chapter 89: A Horse Called Troublemaker

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Chapter 89: A Horse Called Troublemaker

Baiyin and Buhe nodded. With the help of their temporary riding tutors, the four models pulled their horses to the track slowly.

Calling it a track was an exaggeration. It was basically an unsurfaced road created by local riders.

In 1999, horsemanship was still foreign to the Chinese. It was only a luxury for rich men. The horsemanship competition was actually an attempt by the Bashang Grassland to promote its tourism. Domestic horses, Chinese scenery, local riders and international rules constituted the international horsemanship endurance competition.

As a noble, natural, amusing sport, horsemanship was a combination of competitive sports, outdoor tourism, high-end social communication, pet feeding and stimulating decompression. Therefore, it didn't seem likely to fail to become popular.

The committee of the competition had invited most of the local riders, eager to hold the grand event. The riders had all grown up on horseback, so the competition level had improved greatly. Baiyin and Buhe were among the best riders and contestants.

Baiyin patted his horse on its back and asked it to stand still before he began the lesson.

"Check the horses' harnesses before mounting them, in case the saddle moves around. Then put the pedals down and adjust them to the right length. Make the saddle wings even."

"Don't touch the horse's body when you put down the pedals. Just loosen your grip gently and let them hang down beside its ribs."

Baiyin gently pulled his pedals down. His students followed his movements with their eyes.

"Stand near your horse's forelegs and make sure both reins have the same length. The inner side of the reins should be pasted to the horse's neck, and the stiff bit should touch the corner of its mouth gently. Hold the reins with your left hand and insert your index finger between them to grasp the horse's hair and the whip."

"Turn your pedals clockwise with your right hand until the outside faces you. Then push on the pedal inwards to mount the horse." He lifted his left leg to push on one pedal.

"Be careful! The next step is essential! Don't touch the horse's body. Instead, hold the right side of the saddle bridge with your right hand. Your left tiptoe should be under the belly band. Push against the ground with your right foot and jump up gently," he said as he jumped up to mount the horse's back.

His students were listening to him carefully. Baiyin got on the horse easily, comforting the nervous young men.

"It seems simple." They all let out a relieved breath. Qin Guan memorized what Baiyin had said carefully with both his brain and muscles.

As he rode on the horse, Baiyin taught them how to maintain a sitting posture while running. When he saw everyone nod in understanding, he asked them to have a try themselves with his and Buhe's help.

The girls went first. Sister Xue just watched, secretly handing Qin Guan a green apple.

"I heard that one has to have good relationship with his horse. You have to wash them, clean their barn, or feed them. The first two will not do for you, so I brought their favorite food."

Qin Guan looked down at the withered apple speechlessly. Are you kidding? My horse seems like a good boy. It doesn't need to be bribed.

Sister Xue warned him, "Look, it's showing the whites of its eyes to you!" Qin Guan turned to his horse, who was staring at him with a disparaging expression as it moved its thick lips.

You silly newbie. You want to ride on my head? I'll teach you a lesson!

Qin Guan decided to compromise and take the apple. "Fine, I'll have a try." When he presented the apple to the horse, the animal looked down at it. Oh, an apple? I like those.

He swallowed the apple, leaving a handful of saliva on Qin Guan's hand.

You cheated me! Is this what you call an apple? You dare try to manipulate me?

Broken pieces of apple landed on Qin Guan's head as he was wiping the saliva on his pants. The apple had worsened their bilateral relationship.

Before Qin Guan could do anything, Buhe shouted, "Young men, get on your horses!"

Qin Guan and the second runner-up of the competition got on their horses at his command. Buhe frowned at the second runner-up, who was not paying attention to detail.

Then he turned to Qin Guan. Well done! His posture is standard. Before he could praise Qin Guan though, Buhe realized something was wrong. Who assigned these horses to them? Who brought out the Troublemaker? As rookies, they should be riding tame old horses.

The person in charge was innocent. He had seen a noble, handsome young man and unconsciously given him the most handsome horse. The Troublemaker was the most handsome horse in the barn. He had smooth black hair and strong muscles, and he was very elegant.

However, he was a naughty horse. His favorite activity was making fun of strangers. There was no time for Buhe to warn Qin Guan. The Troublemaker was already moving.

Holding his proud head high and shaking its beautiful mane, he let out a long happy sound that could be interpreted as, "Ha ha, you are on my back! Come play with me now!"

The Troublemaker rushed to the track, leaving everyone screaming behind him.

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Chapter 90: Threatening But Not Dangerous

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

The wind was howling in his ears as the scenery retreated at high speed. Qin Guan unconsciously held the reins tight.

The Troublemaker was running happily. The human on my back is really brave. He isn't even crying. If he can remain safe despite my unique skills, I'll recognize him as my equal.

Suddenly, the horse stopped. Qin Guan pressed himself tightly against its stomach and clenched the reins that kept him from falling off. Baiyin and Buhe caught up with them on their horses and saw that they were safe. Both of them sighed in relief.

As they helped Qin Guan off the horse, Baiyin praised him, "Good boy! You are good at riding. Even the Troublemaker has recognized your ability."

Mongolian men admired heroes and their tough spirit. Baiyin and Buhe quickly accepted Qin Guan as one of their own. Meanwhile, Qin Guan tried to hold his tears back. I have two mosquito bites on my butt! You can have a try! My legs are hurting too!

However, as he stared at the long face of the Troublemaker, who seemed to be smiling at him, Qin Guan wasn't feeling angry anymore. That horse is lovely. It admires me for my charm and ability.

Qin Guan was really proud of himself, and the Troublemaker was also happy. According to the standards of human beings, my little brother is a beauty.

After the accident, Baiyin taught them how to run slowly on horseback, which Qin Guan had proved he could handle. The bumps on his bottom were proof enough.

After all the models had mastered it, they returned to the gathering site, where the director, the photographer, and the other models were waiting for them.

The protagonist of the photoshoot was a professional domestic steeplechase athlete the director had invited to represent the competition. He was among the best in China, but he was a green hand at modelling.

Therefore, they all had to work as a team. As they were getting on their horses, the evil part of Ouyang Fen's heart was awakened.

Qin Guan was on a pretty black racing horse with white hair on its strong hooves. The horse looked like it was stomping in the deep snow. It was a superb animal.

Ouyang Fen felt wronged when he looked at the aged horse he was riding. He rode up to Qin Guan and nudged him gently.

"Hey, why is your horse so beautiful? Would you exchange it with mine?"

It is a lot more pleasurable to share joy than enjoy something alone. The small evil part in Qin Guan's heart was also awakened.

"No problem! We can swap horses later," he answered without hesitation.

Ouyang Fen couldn't believe his own ears, but he fell in step with Qin Guan.

They reached the foot of a small mountain, where the grass was green and small flowers were scattered. A few lambs were munching on the grass leisurely.

Following the contestant's instructions, the models formed a triangle.

The blue sky, green grass, white lambs and handsome riders looked like a perfect painting through the camera lens. The photographer adjusted the height of the tripod and took the first series of photos from a distance.

Then the models got off their horses and gathered behind the contestant, acting like his followers to set off his valiant, heroic upbringing. The second series of photos were close-up shots. Imagining the moment of his victory, the contestant smiled. His brown, sunburnt face was filled with happiness.

The photographer knew how to guide a greenhand. His personal experience created the right vibe.

Finally, he let everyone take a break. They had to finish the third series of photos before the temperature got too high.

The third series would be the running shots. Qin Guan happily handed the Troublemaker's reins to Ouyang Fen, warning him, "I wouldn't swap horses with me if I were you. My horse has a really bad temper. Only I can control it. You can consult with Baiyin and Buhe if you want."

Ouyang Fen was angry. Just as I expected. Qin Guan doesn't want to swap horses with me. Ouyang Fen grabbed the Troublemaker's reins. "A greenhand like you can control the horse, but a veteran like me can't? You just don't want to swap with me!"

Qin Guan shrugged and backed off, but he dared not leave Ouyang Fen alone. He will blame me if there is some kind of accident. Ouyang Fen didn't care about the horse. Only I deserve such a handsome horse. I will stand out in the photos.

The photographer asked everyone to mount their horses again. Ouyang Fen was planning on showing off his riding skills. He put one foot onto the pedal, but the Troublemaker suddenly raised its bottom and back legs, and Ouyang Fen fell off with his foot hanging from the pedal.

Everyone was scared, but luckily the Troublemaker had not started running. Otherwise, Ouyang Fen would have died on that grassland.

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Chapter 91: The End

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

The Troublemaker's eyes were alight with laughter. Silly human beings, not everyone is qualified to be my underling.

Actually, the Troublemaker was a trained racing horse, but it was naughty and would often act outrageously. It was good at such tricks. No big deal. I just threw a person off, and he landed on his butt.

With everyone's help, Ouyang Fen pulled his foot out of the pedal. By then, his face was swollen from the mosquito bites, and his butt was hurting because of the horse. I should always pray before I go out. Why do I have such a bad relationship with animals?

The staff was relieved that Ouyang Fen was all right. The third series of photos would be taken soon. Ouyang Fen was well-behaved. He returned to his own house obediently. Qin Guan, you vile person! You did that on purpose! Just wait and see! This is not over! (Alas, this has become his signature phrase.)

Amid the breeze, the grass was swaying like the waves in the sea. A rider was riding on a running horse. In nature, human beings and horses seemed tiny. The photographer pushed the lens forward, and the horses slowed down gradually. They were in the frame, creating a beautiful picture. The photographer pressed down the shutter, and the whole shooting was finished successfully.

The riders slowed down, and the horses gradually stopped. The photoshoot was over, but everyone was lingering around. They had fallen in love with riding.

Before entering the barn, the Troublemaker looked at Qin Guan reluctantly. Such a pity that he will leave. I'll never met someone so easy to bully.

Qin Guan, on the other side, let out a relieved breath. It was finally over. I couldn't even feel my legs and butt. What a terrible photoshoot. If it wasn't for Sister Xue, I would have been lying in my dormitory, reading and sleeping. How comfortable that would have been!

Master Qin, you forgot all about the delicious meal you had last evening! You deny everything as soon as you put down your chopsticks, huh? Meanwhile, Sister Xue was packing Master Qin's luggage. They had to return to their lodging in that shabby minibus. The models were dirty all over, stinking like horse sweat and urine. The minibus was crowded, so the smell was terrible.

They returned to their lodging, feeling dizzy. They didn't even take a sip of water, they rushed to their rooms right away to take a bath. Qin Guan washed his body twice before he felt better. As he caressed his swollen legs, he realized that he would be sore for the next three days. New riders weren't get used to the shaking on a horse's back. The inside of the leg was the most tender part of the human body, so the close contact had given the riders a whole new experience.

Qin Guan dried off and changed into loose, comfortable sportswear before he hobbled out. After half a day of physical work, his stomach felt flat. When he got to the yard, he saw that the others looked the same. They were hovering two millimeters above their chairs. It hurt to actually sit down. When the manager served everyone dinner, they cheered up.

At noon, the manager and his wife organized a feast for everyone. There was Bashang mutton boiled in clear soup but cooked without seasoning. The dish was served with sauce. The day lily fried pork was delicious and tender. Eutrophy also gave it a medicinal effect.

Chinese yam was a kind of staple food made from cooked potatoes and oat flour. The small particles were fried with chopped green onion and sesame oil, which were both soft and sweet. The Bashang carbon-baked beef jerky was made from selected beef tenderloins. The texture of each beef stick was clear to see. They were all made traditionally by Inner Mongolian masters who knew everything about air-dried meat. The beef sticks dried naturally and were meticulously processed through baking. Then they were flavoured with the most basic salty seasoning. No additives or corrosion removers were added. It was a tasty, must-have dish in the Bashang area.

The staple food served last was the speciality of the landlady: Bashang oat flour roe.

She mixed oat flour and warm water (preferably local water) and pulled the dough into small pieces. Then she rubbed them with her thumb on a stone plate and steamed them. Before serving them, she poured sauce all over them. The natural ingredients made the experience even more pleasurable for their taste buds.

They all forgot their pain and enjoyed the feast to their heart's content. They had to be fast again, or Qin Guan would finish all the dishes. Having dined and wined to satiety, the production staff didn't waste anyone's time. They gave out bonuses to the models and expressed their appreciation for their hard work.

Then they packed all the equipment and carried them to the car before heading home. Qin Guan lay on the back seat of Sister Xue's car, but dared not touch the seat with his butt. He was counting the bills he had been given. One, two... six. It was 600 yuan, no more or less. Did they take him for a beggar? He had spent two days working for so little money. Qin Guan was so angry that his nose looked twisted. Before he could complain though, Sister Xue stabbed another knife through his heart. "Well, that will be 200 yuan for me. Don't keep it all."

What could Qin Guan say? She was the money-grubber who had found that unrewarding job for him. And to what effect? What could a magazine with such a small readership do for him?

The "Capital Entertainment" newspaper, which was released every Monday, would have been way better. Suddenly, Qin Guan recalled that the newspaper had interviewed him and Quyang Fen. It was Saturday, so the next issue would be published in two days. Although it had a small readership, the paper was sold at newspaper stands. Qin Guan planned to buy one on Monday to see his debut.

After driving for several hours, Qin Guan walked unevenly to his dormitory. His roommates asked him details about his trip to the grassland and sneered at him when he said it had not been worth the journey. Qin Guan had gotten to ride a horse, enjoy delicious food, and earn money. He was the only one who would consider this too much trouble. He sure was very talented at attracting hostility! We hate people who make a living on their appearance.

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Chapter 92: A Short Interview

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Qin Guan's roommates tried their best to make fun of him. They told everyone that his butt was swollen, and as a result Qin Guan got a new nickname. People called him "the poor guy with the swollen butt".

Annoyed, Qin Guan slept on his stomach, groaning and moaning all night long. He didn't feel any better the next day. As he was brushing his teeth in the morning, he was thinking about something important. I have no energy to go buy the newspaper today. Who could I ask for help?

Liu Xiaoyang would be a good choice. When Qin Guan returned to the dormitory, he took a coin out of his pocket. "Could you please buy a newspaper for me? I'm too sore to go out today."

Liu Xiaoyang took the coin and jumped off his bed happily. "Which one do you want? Capital Weekend or Capital Daily?" he asked Qin Guan.

Qin Guan answered calmly, "Capital Entertainment."

His answer made Wang Lei curious. College students were seldom interested in that paper. "You never pay attention to entertainment news. Why do you want to buy that newspaper?" he asked.

Qin Guan smiled to himself. He was happy someone had asked. Pretending to be calm, he answered, "No reason, I just gave an interview to the newspaper, and I'm curious about what it says. That's why I want to buy it." His acting made everyone curious.

"Why did they interview you?"

"Didn't you just win that magazine photoshoot? Why did that newspaper interview you in such a short time?"

Qin Guan coughed and answered indifferently, "Oh, it's nothing important. I just returned to college earlier and participated in a competition with my agent. I accidentally was the capital winner. The photoshoot was one of the prizes. It was just an ordinary job with a poor 1,000 yuan reward. Then I participated in the national competition and won that as well. It was so boring. I had no competition at all. It was boring as hell!"

Then he threw his hair back and struck a pose.

His roommates spoke simultaneously, "You slut!"

Liu Xiaoyang went out happily. When he returned, they all gathered to read the newspaper.

The front-page headline was about the actors of "Princess Pearl", the most popular TV series at the time. Any news about the series were breaking news in the media. They turned the front page, but there was nothing; the second page, still nothing. They went through all eight pages, but found nothing at all about Qin Guan.

It was impossible! Qin Guan took the newspaper and scanned it from beginning to end. Finally, he found the short interview at the bottom of the front page. His photos with Ouyang Fen was as large as half a cigarette pack. No one could recognize Qin Guan without a magnifying glass. Together with the article, the whole interview was the size of a whole cigarette pack.

Readers would hardly pay attention to such a short interview.

"Why such a short interview? He was the winner..."

"Models have a small audience in China."

"Film or TV stars at least get familiar with their audience. Poor Qin Guan. To this day, there has never been a renowned model."

As they talked, Qin Guan read the article, which presented him as the new shining star of the capital model circle. I will be modest about it!

He took a pair of scissors from the drawer and cut the interview off. The newspaper was distributed only in the capital. I have to save it to show off at home during the Spring Festival. I'll share the good news with Cong Nianwei!

Cong Nianwei hung up the phone and burst into laughter. What a silly boyfriend! I'll buy the newspaper just to encourage him.

Huan Jiajia got up unprecedentedly early to buy the newspaper with the excuse of buying breakfast for her parents. The rest of the pages of the newspaper were used to wrap fried bread sticks.

Meanwhile somewhere else, Ouyang Fen was carefully cutting the interview off and pasting it into a large notebook. Pressing the edges of the paper, he smiled in satisfaction at his cousin's expression of both dislike and joy. My brother has made his first step towards success.

The next day, Qin Guan was escorted into the classroom by Wang Lei and his pillow. He walked in a jerky, uneven way. Everyone's attention was on him as usual. That was the magic of beauty. His status that day had inspired everyone. Under the attention of millions of people, Qin Guan sat down carefully on his chair. He didn't forget to put the pillow under his butt first.

"What's wrong with him? Why is he walking that way?"

"He must be hurt. Did you see the pillow?"

"His butt was hurt!"

"Ha ha ha..."

"How can someone hurt their butt?" It was a valid question.

...…

"Ha ha ha... You betcha..."

Qin Guan felt stranger and stranger by the minute. He poked Wang Lei, who was sitting beside him, and asked him, "What's wrong with them? Why are they looking at me? Is there anything on my face?"

Wang Lei didn't look at him. "Maybe there's some rice. Feel it yourself."

Qin Guan touched his lips as he looked at Wang Lei.

"See?"

"Did Wang Lei hurt his butt? Impossible! It's rumored that Qin has a girlfriend in QH."

"Poor him! He must be exhausted!"

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Chapter 93: Legend of Ghost Street

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

Qin Guan's butt had made the top ten unsolved mysteries of his department, leaving behind endless legends for future students.

Qin Guan finished the class and waited for Ye Dong and Wang Lei in their dormitory. Ye Dong would be keeping his promise. His creditors had been getting more and more, so he planned on organizing a collective enrolling activity among the college social clubs after the military training. He had asked Li Jie and Mu Lejiang to inform all the clubs.

One of them was the leader of the dancing club, and the other was the director of the camping club. Ye Dong was good at putting his resources to good use.

After their threats, two more names were added to the contract. Only Liu Xiaoyang was left. For friendship's sake, they couldn't leave him alone in their dormitory, so Ye Dong had to treat all his roommates. When they all finished their classes, they got together and headed for Gui Street in a formidable array.

Located in the western part of the Dongzhimen overpass, Gui Street was surrounded by embassies. The foreign visitors and working staff of Beijing could taste authentic Chinese dishes there conveniently. Every year, the restaurants on that street would make tens of millions of yuan from foreign guests. With more than 100 restaurants within more than one kilometre, that area had the greatest density of restaurants in Beijing. That's why it was called the capital dinning street.

They all took the tube there. It was a starry night. Under the light of the lamps, they saw the busy, noisy street. The neon lights around the sign boards were shining, and the lines of restaurants made them dizzy. They had no idea which one to choose.

As a local, Liu Xiaoyang solved the problem for them. He pointed to one of the restaurants in heroic spirit, announcing, "We're going to the Xiao Lin Hot Pot Restaurant".

The others just looked at him, waiting for an explanation. He led his roommates to the restaurant proudly as he said, "You have to know the history of the street first. Do you know what kind of place Gui Street was in the old times?"

"The capital was a quite mannered city even back then. Not only its residents, but the city itself as well. You may be confused. The city is not a living organism after all. How could it possibly follow any rules? That's an ignorant question though. Since the Qing Dynasty, the royal, court-dispatched troops would go through Deshengmen Gate, and convicted criminals would go through Xuanwumen Gate. Dongzhimen Gate was used for wood transportation. Everyone obeyed these rules. The wood was used for coffins! Outside Dongzhimen Gate, there used to be a graveyard."

His audience was thrilled. They all felt the street around them suddenly go cold. Liu Xiaoyan sprayed saliva at them in his excitement.

"Listen to me carefully! The original morning market was held by Dongzhimen Gate, where the peddlers gathered in the small hours and left at dawn. They lit up kerosene lamps. In the dim light, one could see coffin shops and stands selling other funeral goods. It was horrific. People called it the Ghost Market."

Liu Xiaoyang had lowered his voice. By that time, they had already arrived at the restaurant and sat around a table in the corner of the hall. It was a little far from the lights, and several neon beams from outside were casting mysterious shadows on Liu Xiaoyang's face. The image left everyone speechless. This is a fascinating story, okay? Don't keep us guessing!

When Liu Xiaoyang made sure that he had created a great atmosphere, he continued, "After the foundation of the state, the area was developed and the graves were moved. It was strange, but ever since that market-oriented policy was carried out, many shops along the street went bankrupt, including the only state-run department store. No one could find the secret of the curse."

Liu Xiaoyang's history lesson had turned into a custom introduction and a folk ghost story. Liu Xiaoyang continued enigmatically, "That's when the merchants discovered that only restaurants could make profit on this street. Few customers were here during the day, but it was crowded in the evening. Ha, ha, ha..."

It was his laughter, not his story, that was actually scary. Qin Guan kicked Liu under the table, warning him, "Stop laughing. Go on!"

Liu Xiaoyang waved at the waiter with a mysterious smile. "We'd like to order!"

His shout had frightened them. "You scared us! Continue your story!" They were itching to hear the end. Liu picked up the menu as he went on, "No one knew the truth, but some said that the ghosts would enter the city for dinner. The restaurant business was flourishing. The locals, on the other side, were familiar with these stories. Some of them had even explored the tombs. The legends didn't scare them away. Some people had taken advantage of the crowded evening market and set up small food stands. The stands used to block the road."

"The government believed that this influenced the appearance and administration of the city, so the city managing staff would show up on the street at night."

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Chapter 94: Mysterious Light Spots

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

It was useless though. The stands were just small tricycles, so they were hard to capture. Plus, all the peddlers there knew each other. As soon as the city managing staff appeared, the news would spread all over the street in a moment. The staff worked fruitlessly, providing amusement for the customers. Every night the same process was repeated. The staff chased, the peddlers escaped, and the customers followed them to get their pre-paid food.

Qin Guan burst into laughter at the picture. That is exactly my experience as a peddler in Y city, although the people here must have been more interesting than me. Liu Xiaoyang was cheered up by his fascinated audience. "The government realized it was all in vain and decided that banning peddlers was not the way to go. Instead, they set regulations for the stands, supported the restaurants on the street, and named it the Dongnei Restaurant Street."

His listeners were relieved. In the context of this story though, "Gui" meant "ghost", not "tableware". Liu Xiaoyang spread his hands wide. "The first character was not suitable for the formal name of a street, so the government staff racked their brains to find an alternative. The bosses here resisted the change of the name, for they believed that it would destroy the Feng Shui. Finally, they picked a homophone from the dictionary, which was also related to food. Then the government made a large bronze sculpture of the character "簋", which became the symbol of the street. That is the origin of Gui Street", he concluded.

His roommates were enlightened. But how was that related to the Xiaolin Hot Pot Restaurant? Liu Xiaoyang stared at them in disdain. "A man can't call himself a foodie if he doesn't know this restaurant."

His roommates smacked him on the forehead. "Just go on! We are not locals, you show off!"

Liu Xiaoyang restrained himself and tapped on the menu.

"More than ten years ago, this restaurant was called Xiaolin Restaurant. Back then, there were only few shops along the small alleyway. It was a typical old-time Beijing Hutong. At the time, the locals did not use to eat at night."

"One day, a couple came to the street and opened a small restaurant, selling the simplest dishes, such as fish-flavoured pork slices, fried rice, salads, and liquor at low prices. People gradually gathered here. Every evening, before the couple closed the restaurant, there were always some light spots shining on the door, which made them feel strange."

"When they heard the stories about the street, they thought it was elves that were dropping in for dinner, so they stayed open until very late and lit all the lights. They were not just waiting for human customers, but also for ghosts and elves. Understand?"

"At the beginning, there were no customers at night. They insisted on the operation though, and gradually more and more customers heard that the restaurant was open day and night. This was rare in the capital. As the word spread, several months later the customers at night had become more than at daytime. Then the light spots disappeared, and never returned.

Liu Xiaoyang threw the menu on the table, "Waiter! We want to order!" He had finished the story.

"And then?" his audience asked.

"What do you mean?" Liu Xiaoyang asked back in confusion. "Then nothing. People heard that business was pretty good at night, and restaurants opened here one by one. The street became popular from then on."

What an anticlimactic story! They knew what the light spots were, but had no idea how the story had actually ended. "It is said that the couple guarded their secret closely, which might be the reason for their flourishing business."

All of them turned their attention to the dishes. As a smart boy, Liu Xiaoyang took this chance to order his favorites. They didn't know that until the dishes were served though. It was okay, because the dishes were good. The spicy crays that cost four yuan each were served in a large steaming basin. They asked for 20 for each person.

Liu Xiaoyang ordered the hot pot double taste, and the juice was free of charge. Before the jardiniere was served, they all buried their faces into the pile of crays.

For a foodie, professionalism was the most important factor. Everyone could taste crays, but how many people could eat them in the right way? It was surely less than 20%.

With Liu Xiaoyang's guidance though, everyone handled them quickly and in the most standard and tasteful way.

First, they separated the body and clamps and held them in one hand. Then they took the meat out of their tails, which was comparatively easier.

Next, they stripped off the clamps and took the meat, sucking up the sauce in the body. Finally, they licked their fingers and finished. Only in this way could one experience the true essence of crays.

Who was hungry? Hands up! Qin Guan and his roommates were eating fiercely. They didn't look up or relax until the hot pot was boiling. Suddenly, Qin Guan saw some acquaintances.

Diagonally across their table, there were several burly chaps, among whom Qin Guan saw Bu Qinglu and Wang Hailiang. There were already two boxes of empty beer bottles piled beside them, but the dishes on their table remained almost untouched. They were drinking before eating.

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Chapter 95: Emergency

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

The men opposite them were concentrated on drinking. Qin Guan felt unconsciously fainthearted. Shall I go over and say hello, or pretend I don't know them? He had underestimated his attractive appearance though.

He was always a shining bulb, attracting attention anywhere he went. His face was currently buried in crays, but the surrounding customers became aware of him as soon as he looked up. Wang Hailiang saw Qin Guan and nudged Bu Qinglu, who was sitting beside him. "I think we know that guy over there."

Bu Qinglu, who was tearing at a duck neck, glanced in that direction. He bit hard at the bone and said, "Do you remember that interesting boy we met at the Red Star Bar before the Spring Festival?"

"The Red Star Bar?"

"The boy who used your name to scare his enemy and called himself the big brother of the University of Finance. Did you forget him? You said you'd protect every student of his college."

Wang Hailiang was enlightened. That's why I thought he looked familiar. Interesting!

Qin Guan was trying to hide, but Wang held up a bottle of beer to make a toast.

They discovered me! They noticed my rude behaviour! Qin Guan choked on the chilli and began to cough.

Wang was amused. With a playful intention, he stood up groggily and murmured something to his company. Then he lifted the bottle, planning to make a toast to Qin Guan.

He should be honored that a real big brother is making a toast to him. The others took it as a joke. They were just looking at the students, taking pleasure in Qin Guan's misfortune.

Qin Guan was scared. Oh, my god! How will I deal with him?

"Do you know him? Is he an enemy?" Ye Dong asked him in low voice.

Qin Guan gestured to his roommates. "Don't worry about it. He's just an acquaintance. I don't know him that well, but he's not looking for trouble."

Liu Xiaoyang suddenly remembered something and whispered to Qin Guan excitedly, "Is he Wang Hailiang, the most renowned man in Weigongcun? Everyone here will support him!" You little boy! You also know those kind of circles?

By then, Qin Guan had tensed up. He picked up a bottle from the table, but it was plum syrup, a gift from the restaurant.

He will make a toast to me. Shall I toast with plum syrup?

Suddenly, there was an emergency. A man cut Wang Hailiang's way and stared at him fiercely. "Wang Hailiang, you motherf*cker!" he cried before stabbing Wang with an iron pike used for kebab. His intentions were clear, and all his attention was on his weapon, a pointed pike shining with an ice-cold light. The light in his eyes was even colder. He was risking his life.

As a veteran soldier, Wang's reaction time was much faster than ordinary people's. Although he was slightly drunk, he had the most logical response. Estimating that the pike would end up in his stomach, he curved his waist to the right side with effort. At the same time, he hit the man's head with the bottle in his hand.

The attacker smiled savagely. I'm no green hand. I know that you value your life. I had already calculated your move. The man shouted loudly, and the pike changed direction with a shake, stabbing into Wang's stomach.

Bu Qinglu and the other men at their table stood up, but they were too far to help Wang. They still tried their best to run over to stop the assassin though. Otherwise, Wang would die from the attack.

"Bang!"

Several chairs fell on the floor. The other customers were rooted to the spot in fear, and the waiter was screaming loudly before the dangerous scene. The criminal was on the verge of insanity. Regardless of everyone's interference, his only aim was to stab Wang to death.

Just before his weapon stabbed into Wang's stomach, Qin Guan threw the glass bottle in his hand and hit his wrist. It was a large bottle with more than one litre of plum syrup, so it changed the direction of the pike to another part of Wang's body.

The attacker couldn't slow down and knocked Wang to the floor. The two men fell together. The beer bottle was smashed on the head of the attacker at the same time that the man's pike entered Wang's body. Glass shards and beer were raining down on his face. Wang held the pike tightly as he used his spare hand to seize the man's wrist. By that time, Bu Qinglu had reached them. He grabbed the attacker's arm and twisted it at the elbow.

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Chapter 96: Gratitude and Resentment

Translator: Lan Editor: Efydatia

"Crack!"

The attacker cried as his bones broke. The pike fell from his hand, which had loosened unnaturally and was now hanging down powerlessly. Wang Hailiang's companions ran over to dispel the frightened customers, and used their chairs to hit the attacker.

Qin Guan couldn't understand their foolish behaviour. Will you take care of the wounded instead of hitting the attacker? Although the wound was not life-threatening, it was still dangerous to get a pike in the stomach. It would be fine if Wang got treated in time though. (However, the position of the wound was still important. A man could die if they were stabbed in an artery. Excessive blood loss could cause death.) Wang's friends were too careless. Bu Qinglu was trying to press against the wound, while the others were just concentrated on fighting. Alcohol made their brains slow.

Qin Guan saw that Wang's jacket was already soaked in blood. "Don't just stand there!" he shouted to the restaurant staff. "Call an ambulance!" His shout made the staff recover from the shock. The cashier dialed the number with shaking hands. "Hello, 911? There was a murder here..."

The man who answered the telephone was confused. "A murder? You should call the police. We are unable to help a dead man."

"No, no. He is not dead, he's wounded. He's got a pike is in his stomach. Hurry up!"

When she hung up the phone, she considered calling the police, but seeing the ferocious, strong men in the restaurant, she hesitated.

The attacker was already lying on the floor, unable to move, with a barely recognizable, swollen face. His resentful eyes were still fixed on Wang Hailiang. He seemed eager to make another attempt if he got the chance.

Wang Hailiang was also lying flat on the floor, pressing on his wound. He didn't feel so bad, it just hurt a little. There was no massive bleeding. This was a trifle in his experience.

He was just wondering when and how he had offended the crazy man. He had never met him before.

The attacker saw the doubt in his expression and laughed. "You are one forgetful big boss. Don't you remember Li Chaoliang? You have occupied his turf!"

Li Chaoliang? Li Chaoliang? Who's that? Wang Hailiang tried his best to recall with his non-functional brain. Bu Qinglu reminded him helplessly, "Ten years ago. Weigongcun. You fought over turf!"

Wang Hailiang suddenly remembered. He had been young at the time. That had actually been his first fight with a big boss. They had made an appointment to fight with the gang controlling Weigongcun, whose leader had been Li Chaoliang.

At the time, his own boss had told him to challenge Li, the spiritual heart of the gang. Once Li was defeated, the gang would lose in the following mass brawl. He was the best at fighting, so he had been sent out first to fight. The result had been clear. Wang Hailiang had become the big boss of Weigongcun, while his own boss had controlled almost half of the city. It was generally considered that Wang had brought down Li. The attacker had been seeking revenge for Li Chaoliang, who had been his father.

Since Li had been defeated in that battle, he had lost everything. He had lost most of his turf, financial support, and followers. He had been too old to start over. Without followers or friends, he had been like the walking dead. Smoking and drinking, he had had nothing to do but stay at home aimlessly. He had tried to get a normal job, but failed. He had only had gangster skills, so he had been abandoned by modern society.

Tears were running down from the attacker's eyes. He had no idea who he hated more, Wang or his dead father. His mother had already died under the great burden of his father's failure. The man had thought it was his duty to find the source of his family's disaster. Therefore, innocent Wang Hailiang had become his target.

He laughed and shouted at Wang, who still looked doubtful, "Li Chaoliang was my father! You dare claim that you are innocent?"

Wang was shocked. Who could I blame for the injustice?

"Your father was doomed to be defeated by someone, whether that was me or someone else. That's the rule among our kind. We all respect it."

The attacker laughed like crazy. "That's right! You are also doomed to meet that end! I was so silly to try to do it myself. I should have waited for your death..."

The onlookers were staring at the resentful man silently.

Not long after, the ambulance arrived and Wang Hailiang was taken to the hospital. Bu Qinglu expressed their appreciation to Qin Guan and promised that they would be the best of brothers in the future.

Most customers had left the restaurant by then. The whole hall was deserted. Qin Guan's roommates were staring at him in astonishment. Is he a trouble magnet? Anywhere he goes, something big happens.

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