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Chapter Text

The OPL was still buzzing with the noise of excited fans. Matches had just wrapped up, and the post-game analysis was in full swing. Tong Yao, who had only come to observe, found herself lingering longer than she had planned. She wasn’t involved with any team, nor did she want to be. Competitive gaming was something she loved, sure, but analyzing gameplay was her true passion. As a casual player who spent her free time poring over match statistics and strategies, Tong Yao felt at ease in this environment—quietly observing from the sidelines, unnoticed by the world of professional gaming.

What most didn’t know was that Tong Yao was also working on her PhD. Juggling her academic commitments with her passion for the game wasn’t easy, but she’d found her rhythm. The OPL matches provided a perfect escape when the pressure of research and dissertation writing became too much.

Tonight was supposed to be one of those nights—a simple break, an evening of watching matches, and then back to her research. However, fate had other plans.

As she stood off to the side, scanning her phone for updates on the day's gameplay data, a familiar voice pulled her from her thoughts. It was unmistakable—calm yet commanding, a voice that could belong to no one other than Lu Sicheng, the legendary captain of ZGDX. Tong Yao lifted her head, only to see him walking a short distance away, his tall figure immediately drawing her attention.

Lu Sicheng wasn’t someone she had ever planned on meeting. She wasn’t even a fan, though she respected his skill. Tong Yao always preferred to stay in the shadows, observing from afar, keeping her analysis and passion for the game private. But somehow, in this crowded post-game environment, their paths crossed.

He was surrounded by fans and team staff, and it was clear that he was trying to escape the chaos. His eyes flicked over the room, probably searching for an exit. Just as Tong Yao was about to slip away unnoticed, she felt his gaze land on her.

“Excuse me,” his voice broke through the noise, catching her off guard. “Is this the way to the back exit?”

Tong Yao blinked, momentarily stunned that he was addressing her. Her heart raced—why was Lu Sicheng, of all people, talking to her? She gathered herself quickly, pointing towards a dimly lit hallway.

“Yeah, just down that way,” she replied, her voice steady, though her mind was running a mile a minute.

He gave a curt nod, his expression unchanged. “Thanks.”

Without another word, he turned to leave. But before he could fully disappear into the crowd, something unexpected happened—he hesitated. Lu Sicheng glanced back over his shoulder, his eyes narrowing slightly as if he were trying to place her. Tong Yao’s stomach flipped.

“You analyze games, don’t you?” His question came out of nowhere, and Tong Yao stiffened.

“How... did you know that?” she asked, genuinely surprised. She hadn’t been public about her passion for game analysis, and it wasn’t something she went around telling people.

He shrugged, the faintest hint of amusement tugging at the corner of his mouth. “I saw you watching earlier. You weren’t just here for fun.”

Tong Yao frowned slightly, feeling exposed. “So what if I do?”

“I don’t usually see people with that kind of focus just watching casually,” Lu Sicheng remarked. “You’re different.”

She wasn’t sure whether to be flattered or uncomfortable. “I just like the game,” she said simply, refusing to give him more than that. “I’m not interested in being on a team.”

“Good,” he replied, surprising her again. “Most people I meet are dying to join a pro team.”

“Well, I’m not most people,” she shot back, a bit defensively. “I have other things I’m focused on.”

“What? School?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Tong Yao felt a strange sense of disbelief that she was having this conversation with one of the most famous players in the world. “Yeah,” she said cautiously. “I’m working on my PhD.”

This piqued his interest. “In what?”

“Behavioral psychology,” she replied, shifting uncomfortably under his gaze. “Not that it’s any of your business.”

He gave a short laugh, the sound catching her off guard. “Interesting combination—pro gaming analysis and psychology.”

Before she could respond, Lu Sicheng’s phone buzzed, breaking the moment. He glanced at it briefly, his expression hardening once more as he registered whatever message had come through.

“I should go,” he said, turning towards the hallway once again. But then, just as he was about to leave, he paused and looked back at her. “I’ll see you around.”

Tong Yao frowned as he disappeared into the shadows. *See me around?* She wasn’t sure what to make of that. After all, she had no plans of getting involved in his world. But something about their encounter left her unsettled—and intrigued.

Shaking her head, she tucked her phone into her pocket and slipped out of the arena. Her world of research and academic rigor was waiting for her, and that was where her focus needed to be. Gaming was just a side passion, an escape from the pressures of her PhD.

Still, as she walked back to her apartment, she couldn’t help but wonder if their paths would cross again.

Chapter Text

The following week passed in a blur for Tong Yao. Between diving into the final stages of her dissertation and grading papers for her teaching assistant role, there was little time for anything else. The memory of her brief encounter with Lu Sicheng had faded into the background, overshadowed by academic deadlines and endless research. She told herself that their meeting was nothing more than a coincidence, just a fleeting moment in the chaos of the OPL.

Still, as Friday evening rolled around, she found herself back at the arena. Tong Yao wasn’t sure why she’d returned. Maybe it was the thrill of watching high-level gameplay, or maybe it was just a chance to take a break from the relentless demands of her PhD. Either way, she was here again, nestled in a quiet corner of the spectator stands, with her laptop open on her lap—half watching the matches, half working on her analysis.

The night’s games were intense, but Tong Yao remained focused on her notes, typing away as she analyzed team compositions and strategies, quietly observing the flow of the matches. The hum of the crowd was background noise to her, a distant buzz that had no effect on her concentration.

Until someone sat down beside her.

At first, Tong Yao didn’t notice, too absorbed in her work to acknowledge the presence beside her. It wasn’t until she heard a voice—low, familiar, and unmistakably amused—that she glanced up from her screen.

“Still not just here for fun, I see.”

Her heart skipped a beat. *Him again?* She turned her head and found herself looking directly at Lu Sicheng, sitting casually in the seat next to her, one arm draped over the back of the chair as if he had no care in the world. His posture was relaxed, but there was a sharpness in his gaze that made her nervous.

“Do you make a habit of sneaking up on people?” she asked, trying to keep her voice neutral.

He smirked slightly. “You make it pretty easy. You’re so absorbed in whatever you’re doing, you don’t notice much else.”

Tong Yao closed her laptop, her brows furrowing. “I’m working.”

“On what? Another PhD dissertation, or are you here analyzing us again?” he asked, leaning forward just a little.

Tong Yao felt her annoyance rise. “Both, actually. Not that it’s any of your business.” She didn’t understand why he was so curious about her. “Shouldn’t you be with your team or something?”

He shrugged, glancing out at the arena. “The match is over. We won. I’ve got some time to kill.”

She glanced at him skeptically. “So, you came here? To sit in the stands?”

“I noticed you were here,” he said simply, his tone casual but his words carrying more weight than he let on.

Tong Yao blinked, taken aback. *Noticed?* Why would he notice her of all people? She was just another face in the crowd, an anonymous observer who didn’t want anything to do with the limelight of professional gaming.

“You’re different,” he continued, as if reading her mind. “Most people come here for the excitement, to cheer for their favorite teams, to be a part of the scene. You, on the other hand… you’re watching the game like you’re studying for an exam.”

Tong Yao’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Maybe that’s because I’m not here for the same reason as everyone else.”

“I can tell,” he said, his eyes narrowing slightly. “You’re not a fan. You’re an analyst.”

She raised an eyebrow. “And what makes you think you know me so well?”

“Call it intuition,” he replied, though the smirk on his face made it clear that it was more than that. “You’ve got the same look in your eyes that we do when we’re in the middle of a game. Focused. Calculated.”

Tong Yao sighed, not in the mood to play games with him. “Look, I’m not interested in joining a team, okay? I already told you that.”

“I’m not here to recruit you,” he said, and for the first time since he sat down, his expression became more serious. “I just find it interesting. You’re good at this. Better than most analysts I’ve worked with.”

Her cheeks flushed, caught off guard by the compliment. “I just… like the game,” she mumbled, unsure how else to respond.

“And you’re good at analyzing it,” he repeated, his voice softer now, almost thoughtful. “What’s your name?”

She hesitated, instinctively feeling like giving him her name would cross a line she wasn’t ready to cross. “Why do you want to know?”

He leaned back again, that calm, collected exterior slipping back into place. “Curiosity,” he said, his tone casual once more. “You don’t meet someone with your kind of mind in this industry every day.”

Tong Yao could feel his eyes on her, waiting for her response, and something told her that he wasn’t going to let this go easily. Finally, she relented.

“It’s Tong Yao,” she said quietly. “Not that it matters.”

“It does,” he replied, surprising her with how quickly he answered. “Tong Yao.”

She sighed, feeling a bit out of her depth. She had no idea why this man—the captain of one of the most famous teams in OPL—was suddenly so interested in her. But before she could figure out how to politely extract herself from the situation, he stood up.

“I’ll remember that,” he said, giving her a brief nod before heading down the steps of the stands.

Tong Yao watched him go, bewildered. *What was that all about?*

She had no intention of getting involved with him or his world. This was supposed to be her quiet place, her escape from the pressures of her PhD. And yet, there he was—pushing his way into her life.

Shaking her head, Tong Yao opened her laptop again, determined to focus on her work. But as her fingers hovered over the keys, she realized something unsettling—her heart was still racing.

---

**Later That Week**

Tong Yao was back in the comfort of her small apartment, buried in books and journal articles as she worked on the latest draft of her dissertation. Her phone buzzed, pulling her from her focus. It was a message—one that made her freeze.

“Found you.”

It was from an unknown number, but there was no mistaking the sender. She stared at the screen in disbelief. *Lu Sicheng?* How had he gotten her number? She definitely hadn’t given it to him.

Before she could even process the message, another one popped up.

“Don’t worry. Just wanted to talk. Coffee tomorrow?”

Tong Yao groaned, dropping her head into her hands. *What had she gotten herself into?

Chapter Text

She had spent the whole morning debating whether or not meeting Lu Sicheng for coffee was a good idea. On one hand, it was just coffee—no big deal. But on the other hand, something about him unsettled her. Not in a bad way, but in a way that made her feel exposed, as if he could see through her carefully constructed walls. And that was dangerous. She didn’t need distractions, and Lu Sicheng was a massive distraction.

Still, curiosity got the better of her.

By the time she arrived at the café, she was ten minutes late. She spotted Lu Sicheng immediately—sitting in the back, casually scrolling through his phone, completely at ease despite the crowd bustling around them. His tall frame and calm demeanor made him stand out like he belonged to a different world altogether. He glanced up when she entered, locking eyes with her. There was a brief flicker of something in his gaze—amusement? Interest? Tong Yao couldn’t quite tell.

“Thought you weren’t going to show up,” he said as she slid into the seat across from him.

“I almost didn’t,” she admitted, folding her hands on the table. “But I’m here, so let’s get this over with.”

He raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching into a smirk. “So eager to leave?”

“I have work to do,” she said, keeping her tone neutral. “PhD, remember?”

“I remember,” he replied, still watching her carefully. “And yet you found time to play a game under the name ‘Smiling’ last night.”

Tong Yao froze, her heart skipping a beat. Her fingers twitched in her lap, and for a moment, she was sure her secret was out. But then she forced herself to relax, reminding herself that there was no way he could know. Smiling was just a screen name, a faceless player in the OPL, and everyone—including the entire professional gaming scene—thought Smiling was a male player. There was no reason for Lu Sicheng to connect the dots. None at all.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she said smoothly, sipping her coffee to buy herself time.

“Really?” His voice held a teasing edge, but his gaze was sharp, as if he was testing her. “You don’t know Smiling? The player everyone’s been buzzing about for months now? The one who’s been wrecking ranked games and embarrassing pro players without even revealing their identity?”

Tong Yao narrowed her eyes. “I know who Smiling is, but I don’t know them personally.”

“Interesting,” he said, his eyes still locked on hers. “Because I’ve been paying attention. Smiling’s style reminds me a lot of someone I’ve seen before.”

Her heart pounded in her chest, but she kept her expression neutral. “And who would that be?”

He leaned forward slightly, his voice dropping to a low murmur. “You.”

There it was. The accusation hanging in the air between them. Tong Yao felt a surge of panic, but she quickly buried it, shaking her head with a small laugh. “Me? You’re joking, right?”

“Not at all,” he said, his expression serious. “The way Smiling moves in-game, the precision, the timing… it’s not just skill. It’s analysis. It’s strategy. The same kind of strategy I saw you using when you were watching games. You analyze everything, don’t you?”

She swallowed, her mouth suddenly dry. “That’s a huge leap in logic. Just because I like analyzing games doesn’t mean I’m Smiling.”

“No,” he agreed, leaning back in his seat, his gaze never leaving hers. “But it makes sense.”

She let out a small sigh, frustrated. “I don’t know why you’re so interested in this, but I’m not Smiling. If I were, don’t you think people would know by now?”

“Maybe,” he said, shrugging. “Or maybe you’ve been keeping it a secret on purpose.”

Tong Yao stared at him, feeling the pressure of his gaze. *Why is he so insistent?* She hadn’t expected him to be this perceptive. Most people had never connected her to Smiling—her identity as a professional gamer had been carefully hidden for a reason. Tong Yao loved playing the game, but she never wanted the spotlight. Being anonymous gave her freedom. And now, here was Lu Sicheng, threatening to unravel it all.

“I’m not Smiling,” she said again, her voice quieter this time.

He studied her for a long moment, his expression unreadable. “If you say so.”

Tong Yao bit her lip, unsure of what to say next. She needed to change the subject—quickly. But before she could, Lu Sicheng’s phone buzzed, drawing his attention away from her. He glanced at the screen, frowning slightly.

“Looks like I have to go,” he said, standing up. “But I’m not letting this go, Tong Yao.”

Her heart raced at the sound of her name on his lips, but she kept her face neutral. “There’s nothing to let go of.”

“We’ll see about that,” he replied, giving her one last look before turning and walking out of the café.

Tong Yao let out a long breath, slumping back in her seat as soon as he was gone. *What just happened?*

She had been careful—always logging into her gaming account from an anonymous profile, keeping her interactions limited to in-game chat, and never showing her face or even hinting at her true identity. And yet, in one short coffee meeting, Lu Sicheng had managed to come dangerously close to uncovering her biggest secret.

But it didn’t end there.

---

**That Night**

Back in her apartment, Tong Yao logged into her account as “Smiling” once again, planning to unwind with a few games. The familiar feeling of excitement washed over her as she queued up for a match, her fingers dancing over the keyboard. Here, in the game, she could be herself—unknown, anonymous, and free.

But halfway through her second match, something unusual happened. A notification popped up on her screen.

**Lu Sicheng has requested to join your game.**

Her hands froze over the keyboard. *What?*

Before she could even process the notification, he was there—Lu Sicheng, in her game, joining her team with his usual stoic, confident presence.

Tong Yao felt her heart pounding in her chest. *How did he find me?* There was no way he could’ve known her account name. Had he somehow tracked her gameplay from earlier matches? Was he really that persistent?

The match started, and for the next thirty minutes, Tong Yao played like she always did—precise, calculated, and ruthless. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being watched, analyzed, as if Lu Sicheng was studying every move she made.

When the game ended in victory, she was about to log off, but a message popped up in her private chat.

**Lu Sicheng: You didn’t tell me you were Smiling.**

Tong Yao stared at the screen, her hands trembling slightly. *How had he figured it out?*

She thought about ignoring the message, but something stopped her. Instead, she typed back.

**Smiling: Maybe I didn’t want you to know.**

There was a long pause, and she could almost feel the weight of his response coming.

**Lu Sicheng: Too bad. I know now.**

Tong Yao sat back in her chair, letting out a long sigh. *So much for keeping secrets.*

Chapter Text

Tong Yao had never felt this level of anxiety before—not during her most grueling exams, not while presenting complex research to a room full of academics, not even when she first started playing under the "Smiling" alias. But now, knowing that Lu Sicheng had figured out her secret, she couldn’t shake the feeling of vulnerability that crept into her every thought.

She hadn’t seen him since their last conversation online, where his message made it clear that he knew. Now, every time she opened the game, she half expected him to appear, watching her moves, closing the gap that she had worked so hard to keep between her two worlds—her quiet life of studying and her secret passion for competitive gaming.

And then, one afternoon, it happened.

Tong Yao was at her usual café, her laptop open as she worked through the final edits on her dissertation. She was so immersed in her work that she didn’t hear the soft footfalls approaching her table until someone spoke.

“Busy?”

Her heart lurched. She didn’t even need to look up to know who it was.

Lu Sicheng stood beside her table, dressed casually in jeans and a hoodie, but there was nothing casual about the way his eyes locked onto hers. She immediately tensed, trying to school her expression, but the calm focus she usually maintained began to slip.

“What are you doing here?” she asked, her voice coming out more defensive than she intended.

He pulled out the chair across from her and sat down as if they had planned to meet. “I was in the neighborhood.”

“Right,” she said, sarcasm lacing her words. “You just happened to be at the same café I’m in?”

“Coincidence,” he said with a slight smirk. “And besides, I figured you might want to explain why you’ve been hiding the fact that you’re the famous Smiling.”

Tong Yao bit her lip, turning her attention back to her laptop. “I wasn’t hiding anything. It’s not like I owe anyone an explanation.”

“No,” he agreed, leaning back in his chair, his eyes never leaving her. “But it’s interesting, isn’t it? You play just as well as the top pros—better, in some cases—but you’ve kept yourself completely out of the scene.”

“Maybe I like my privacy,” she muttered, typing a few lines of text, though she wasn’t paying attention to her work anymore.

“Or maybe you’re afraid,” he said, his voice dropping slightly.

That made her pause. She looked up at him sharply. “Afraid? Of what?”

“Of stepping into the spotlight,” he replied, his expression unreadable. “Of being recognized for what you can really do.”

Tong Yao’s jaw tightened. “I don’t want to be in the spotlight. I have a life outside of the game, Sicheng. A real life. I’m finishing my PhD, working on research that actually matters. I don’t need or want to be involved in the pro scene.”

“And yet, you’re playing at a level that could put you on any top team if you wanted,” he countered smoothly.

Her fingers hovered over the keyboard, but she didn’t type. “Just because I’m good at something doesn’t mean I want to make it my entire life.”

He studied her for a moment, the smirk fading as his expression became more serious. “You think I don’t understand that? You think I haven’t considered what it would be like to walk away from all this?”

She blinked, surprised by the shift in his tone. “You? Walk away?”

Lu Sicheng shrugged. “There are days I think about it. The pressure, the constant scrutiny, the expectations—it’s a lot. But then I remember why I love the game. And it’s not about the fame or the attention. It’s about being the best at something I care about.”

Tong Yao frowned, not sure how to respond. She hadn’t expected this kind of honesty from him, and it made her feel even more conflicted. She wanted to believe that she could keep gaming as just a hobby, a passion on the side, but there was no denying that she loved the rush of competition, the thrill of perfecting a strategy and outplaying her opponents.

But admitting that felt like giving something up—something she wasn’t ready to lose.

“You’re chasing something,” she said quietly, her eyes meeting his. “I’m not. That’s the difference between us.”

He didn’t respond right away, but his gaze remained fixed on her, intense and unwavering. Then, slowly, a small smile tugged at his lips. “Maybe you’re just not ready to admit that you’re already in the race.”

She clenched her jaw, frustration bubbling to the surface. “This is a waste of time, Sicheng. I told you before, I’m not interested in being part of the scene. I just want to play the game on my terms.”

“And I’m just saying,” he replied, his voice calm but firm, “that you could be part of something bigger if you wanted.”

Tong Yao closed her laptop with more force than necessary, her temper flaring. “Why do you care so much? What difference does it make to you if I stay anonymous?”

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, his eyes never leaving hers. “Because I see something in you, Tong Yao. Something that no one else seems to have noticed. You’re talented, you’re sharp, and you don’t back down from a challenge. I’m not going to let you just slip away without trying.”

Her breath caught in her throat. The intensity in his voice, the way he said her name—it made her feel cornered, like he had seen through all the layers she’d built up around herself. But more than that, it made her realize that Lu Sicheng wasn’t going to let this go. He was chasing her—not just because she was Smiling, but because he saw potential in her that even she had been too afraid to acknowledge.

“You can’t force me into this world,” she said, her voice quieter now, though still holding a note of defiance.

“I’m not forcing you into anything,” he said, standing up slowly, towering over her in that effortlessly imposing way he always seemed to carry himself. “But I’m not going to stop chasing you, either.”

She stared up at him, speechless, as he turned to leave. But before he walked away, he looked back over his shoulder.

“Think about it,” he said, his tone lighter but still firm. “Because this chase? It’s just getting started.”

---

**The Next Week**

Tong Yao thought about his words far more than she wanted to. Every time she logged into her gaming account, every time she analyzed match data, she heard his voice in the back of her mind. He was right about one thing—there was a part of her that loved the competition, the challenge. And as much as she tried to deny it, there was a part of her that wondered if she had been holding herself back out of fear.

But then she reminded herself of why she had stayed anonymous in the first place. She didn’t want the fame, the pressure, the expectations. She just wanted to play the game she loved.

That resolve began to falter, however, when she logged into her account one night and found a message waiting for her.

**Lu Sicheng: Game tonight? Or are you still hiding?**

Tong Yao glared at the screen, her fingers hovering over the keyboard as she debated whether or not to respond. She hated how easily he got under her skin, how his persistence made her question her choices. But even more than that, she hated the thrill of excitement she felt at the prospect of playing with him again.

**Smiling: Fine. But this doesn’t mean anything.**

She hit send and leaned back in her chair, already regretting her decision. But deep down, she knew this wasn’t the end. Lu Sicheng wasn’t just chasing her in the game—he was chasing the part of her she had buried, the part that wanted to be seen.

Chapter Text

The days blurred together in a way that left Tong Yao feeling unsteady. Between her dissertation, her quiet life, and her late-night games as “Smiling,” Lu Sicheng’s presence loomed larger than ever. She told herself that the chase was about gaming, that his interest was purely professional, but each interaction with him left her more unsure of where the lines were being drawn.

It wasn’t just the way he showed up—online, in-game, or, more surprisingly, at random places where she’d go to study or take a break. It was the way he looked at her, the intensity of his focus on her, like he was trying to understand more than just the moves she made in a match. And it left her feeling off-balance.

The text messages from him continued, as did their impromptu games. Every night seemed to bring a new challenge, a new opportunity for him to test her boundaries—not just in the game, but in their conversations. She knew he was pushing, trying to get closer, and it made her both nervous and exhilarated in ways she hadn’t anticipated.

**It was only a matter of time before he made his next move.**

---

**Another Game Night**

“Smiling, you’re late,” his message popped up on her screen the second she logged in.

She rolled her eyes, her fingers flying over the keyboard as she typed a response.

**Smiling: Some of us have actual work to do. You should try it sometime.**

She could practically hear the smirk in his next reply.

**Lu Sicheng: I’m working. This is part of the job, remember?**

**Smiling: Harassing me doesn’t count as work.**

**Lu Sicheng: Who says it’s harassment? Maybe I just like playing with you.**

Tong Yao froze for a moment, her fingers hovering above the keys. *There it is again.* The subtle, but undeniable shift in his tone. He had been edging closer to this line for a while now, but this felt like more than just a playful remark. It felt intentional.

She typed out a quick response, hoping to keep things light.

**Smiling: Or maybe you’re just desperate for a decent teammate.**

**Lu Sicheng: Or maybe I’m interested in more than just how well you play the game.**

Her heart skipped a beat. *There it was.*

Tong Yao stared at the screen, unsure how to respond. She had known this was coming. The chase had never been purely about the game—it had always been more than that. But seeing it laid out so bluntly in front of her made it impossible to ignore.

Before she could come up with a reply, another message appeared.

**Lu Sicheng: Still there?**

Her fingers twitched, and she quickly typed a reply, trying to deflect.

**Smiling: I’m here. I just wasn’t expecting you to get this personal.**

**Lu Sicheng: I’m always personal. You just haven’t noticed.**

Tong Yao felt her stomach twist. She had noticed, of course, but she had been too focused on keeping her distance, on maintaining the walls between her gaming life and the rest of her world, to fully acknowledge it. And now, here he was, dismantling those walls piece by piece.

She took a deep breath and decided to confront it head-on.

**Smiling: What are you trying to say, Sicheng?**

There was a pause, and for a brief moment, she thought he might back off. But then his next message appeared, more direct than ever.

**Lu Sicheng: I think you know. I’m not just interested in playing games with you.**

Her heart pounded in her chest, and she could feel the heat rising to her cheeks. *Why did he have to be so straightforward?*

She hesitated before typing out her next message.

**Smiling: And what makes you think I’m interested in more than just playing games?**

His response came almost instantly.

**Lu Sicheng: You wouldn’t be here if you weren’t.**

Tong Yao sat back in her chair, staring at the screen as his words sunk in. *Was he right?*

She had told herself that this was just about gaming, about challenging herself and enjoying the anonymity of the game. But deep down, she couldn’t deny that Lu Sicheng intrigued her in ways she hadn’t expected. His confidence, his persistence, the way he seemed to see through her defenses—it all made her feel alive in a way that nothing else did.

But that didn’t mean she was ready to give in.

Tong Yao typed her response carefully.

**Smiling: I’m here because I like the game. That’s all.**

There was a pause, and she wondered if he would let it go. But of course, Lu Sicheng wasn’t the type to back down easily.

**Lu Sicheng: Sure, you like the game. But we both know that’s not all there is to it.**

**Smiling: You’re awfully confident, Sicheng.**

**Lu Sicheng: I’m confident because I know what I want.**

Her pulse quickened, and she had to force herself to stay calm. This was getting dangerously close to territory she wasn’t sure she was ready for. Tong Yao typed back quickly, trying to regain some control of the situation.

**Smiling: And what exactly is it that you want?**

There was a brief pause before his next message appeared.

**Lu Sicheng: You.**

The single word hit her harder than she expected. Tong Yao stared at the screen, her mind racing as she tried to process what had just happened. She had known this was where things were heading, but seeing it so plainly laid out in front of her made it feel more real.

More dangerous.

**Smiling: I don’t think that’s a good idea.**

**Lu Sicheng: Why not?**

**Smiling: Because we’re from two different worlds. I have my own life, and you have yours.**

**Lu Sicheng: So? Doesn’t mean we can’t figure it out.**

Tong Yao sighed, rubbing her temples as she tried to find the right words. Lu Sicheng wasn’t just chasing her for the thrill of the game anymore. He was chasing her, personally, and that scared her. She wasn’t used to letting people in—not like this.

**Smiling: I don’t know if I can give you what you want, Sicheng.**

His response came immediately, as if he had been waiting for her to say that.

**Lu Sicheng: You don’t have to give me anything right now. I’m not asking for all of you at once. I’m just asking for a chance.**

Tong Yao swallowed, feeling the weight of his words settle over her. He wasn’t asking for much—just a chance. But a chance could lead to so much more, and she wasn’t sure if she was ready for that. Not with him. Not with someone who seemed to see right through her.

But a part of her—maybe a small part, or maybe a bigger part than she cared to admit—wanted to take that chance. The thrill of the chase had been exhilarating, but now it was something more. She wanted to see where this would go, even if it scared her.

**Smiling: I’ll think about it.**

**Lu Sicheng: That’s all I’m asking for.**

She let out a long breath, feeling both relieved and more anxious than ever.

**Lu Sicheng: How about another game? No pressure this time. Just for fun.**

Tong Yao smiled, her fingers moving over the keys as she typed back.

**Smiling: You’re on.**

---

**Later That Night**

Tong Yao lay in bed, staring at the ceiling as the events of the day played over in her mind. Lu Sicheng’s words echoed in her head, his persistence, his confidence, the way he seemed to believe that this was only the beginning.

She wasn’t sure if she was ready for the chase to turn into something more. But there was one thing she couldn’t deny: the walls she had built around herself were starting to crumble, and it was all because of him.

And maybe—just maybe—she wanted them to fall.

Chapter Text

The next few days were quieter than Tong Yao had expected. After their conversation, she thought Lu Sicheng would be relentless—constantly messaging her, finding new ways to push her into confronting her feelings. But he didn’t. Instead, there was a noticeable calm, almost like he was giving her space to process everything. It should’ve been a relief, but instead, it left her feeling more unsettled.

She wasn’t used to people giving her time.

But Lu Sicheng wasn’t most people.

He had always been able to see past her defenses, reading her more clearly than anyone ever had. She couldn’t hide from him, no matter how hard she tried. And that fact both thrilled and terrified her.

Still, the lack of pressure was unnerving. What is he up to? she wondered. Is he waiting for me to make the next move?

That thought only made her more anxious.

---

**Three Days Later**

Tong Yao found herself back at the same café. It had become a bit of a routine—coming here to work on her dissertation while escaping the constant pull of the gaming world. But now, the café had taken on a new meaning. This was where she had first realized the full extent of Lu Sicheng’s interest in her. And now, as she sat down with her coffee, she wondered if he might appear again, unannounced and persistent, as always.

She was both hoping he would and hoping he wouldn’t.

It didn’t take long for her fears—and hopes—to materialize.

Half an hour into reviewing her dissertation draft, the door to the café opened, and in walked Lu Sicheng. As usual, he looked effortlessly casual, his tall frame and relaxed demeanor making him stand out in the crowd. His eyes scanned the room, and the moment they landed on her, a small smirk tugged at his lips.

He walked over without hesitation, pulling out the chair across from her as if they had planned this meeting all along.

“You’re predictable,” he said with a teasing lilt to his voice as he sat down.

“I could say the same about you,” she replied, trying to keep her tone neutral, but she couldn’t hide the fact that her pulse had quickened the moment he walked in.

Lu Sicheng rested his elbows on the table, leaning slightly forward. “Have you thought about it?”

“Thought about what?” she asked, even though she knew exactly what he meant.

He raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying her feigned ignorance. “You know what. Have you thought about giving me that chance?”

Tong Yao bit her lip, avoiding his gaze by staring down at her coffee. She had thought about it—far more than she wanted to admit. But she wasn’t sure if she was ready to let him in, to blur the lines between their worlds even more than they already had.

“I don’t know if this is a good idea,” she finally said, her voice quieter than before.

Lu Sicheng didn’t respond right away. Instead, he reached across the table, gently lifting her chin with two fingers, forcing her to meet his gaze. The gesture was so intimate, so unexpected, that her breath caught in her throat.

“What are you afraid of?” he asked, his voice low and steady.

The intensity of his gaze made her feel like he could see every fear, every doubt, every wall she had built around herself. She swallowed hard, feeling more exposed than ever before.

“I’m not afraid,” she lied, her voice barely a whisper.

“Liar,” he said softly, but there was no malice in his tone—only understanding.

Tong Yao pulled back, breaking the physical connection between them, but the emotional connection remained, stronger than ever. “Why are you doing this?” she asked, her frustration bubbling to the surface. “Why are you chasing me? What’s in it for you?”

He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest as he studied her, his expression thoughtful. “I’m not chasing you for some kind of prize, if that’s what you think,” he said. “I’m chasing you because I see something in you, something you’re too afraid to see for yourself.”

She frowned, not sure if she liked the way he always seemed to know what she was thinking, what she was feeling, even when she hadn’t figured it out herself.

“I don’t need you to fix me,” she said, her voice sharper now, more defensive.

“I’m not trying to fix you,” he replied, his voice calm. “I just want to be a part of your life.”

Those words hit her harder than she expected. *A part of her life?* Was he serious? This wasn’t just some fleeting interest for him—he was actually serious about her, about them.

But the thought of letting him in, of letting anyone in, scared her more than anything. She had always been good at keeping people at arm’s length, protecting herself from getting too close, from getting hurt. Letting Lu Sicheng in meant tearing down those walls, and she wasn’t sure if she could do that.

“I don’t know if I can give you what you want,” she said again, her voice shaky.

He reached across the table again, this time taking her hand in his. His touch was warm, grounding her in the moment. “I’m not asking for everything right away. I’m just asking for a chance. One step at a time.”

She stared at their hands—his large, warm hand enveloping hers—and for the first time in a long time, she felt a sense of calm. Maybe he was right. Maybe she didn’t have to figure everything out all at once. Maybe she could take it one step at a time.

“I… I don’t know,” she whispered, feeling the weight of her own uncertainty.

He squeezed her hand gently, his voice soft but firm. “You don’t have to know everything right now. Just trust me.”

Tong Yao looked up at him, and for the first time, she saw the vulnerability in his eyes. He wasn’t just chasing her for the thrill of the game. He was genuinely interested in her—who she was, what she wanted, and what they could be together. And that scared her more than anything.

But at the same time, it excited her.

Taking a deep breath, she nodded slowly. “Okay. One step at a time.”

A small smile spread across Lu Sicheng’s face, and for the first time, Tong Yao felt like maybe—just maybe—she could let him in. Maybe the chase wasn’t about winning or losing. Maybe it was about finding something real.

As they sat there, hand in hand, the boundaries that had once seemed so clear between them began to blur even further. And for the first time, Tong Yao wasn’t sure she wanted to put them back up.

---

**Later That Night**

Tong Yao was back at her apartment, lying in bed with her phone in hand. She stared at the screen, rereading their messages from earlier in the evening. The weight of the day’s events pressed down on her, but for once, it didn’t feel overwhelming. It felt… different. Lighter, somehow.

Just as she was about to put her phone down, it buzzed.

A new message from Lu Sicheng.

**Lu Sicheng: One step at a time. Starting with dinner tomorrow.**

She smiled, typing back quickly.

**Smiling: You’re awfully sure of yourself.**

**Lu Sicheng: I’m sure of you.**

Her heart skipped a beat, and before she could second-guess herself, she sent her reply.

**Smiling: See you tomorrow.**

As she placed her phone on the nightstand, she realized that the walls she had built up were no longer as impenetrable as they once were. Maybe this chase wasn’t about running anymore. Maybe it was about learning how to stop.

Chapter Text

Lu Sicheng wasn’t easily distracted.

His reputation in the OPL was built on his laser-like focus, his ability to stay calm under pressure, and his complete dedication to the game. No matter what was happening around him, his mind was always on strategy, on winning. It was why he was one of the best.

But lately, something had changed. Or rather, someone had changed everything.

Tong Yao.

She was unlike anyone he’d ever met—intelligent, mysterious, fiercely independent—and she was driving him to distraction. But tonight, as they met for dinner at a quiet restaurant he’d picked out, she did more than that. She made him realize that he was far more than just intrigued by her.

He was completely gone for her.

The second she walked into the restaurant, he felt his breath catch in his throat. Tong Yao was always beautiful—he had noticed that from the beginning. But tonight, she was breathtaking. Her long hair fell in loose waves over her shoulders, her skin glowing under the soft lights of the restaurant. She was dressed simply, but there was something about the way she carried herself, the quiet confidence in her walk, that made every eye in the room turn to her.

But she didn’t seem to notice the attention. Tong Yao had never cared much for being the center of anyone’s world. Yet, here she was—unintentionally captivating everyone around her, without even trying. Lu Sicheng felt his heart race as he watched her approach the table, and for the first time in a long time, he found himself at a loss for words.

When she finally sat down, her lips curled into a small, knowing smile. “You’re staring.”

He blinked, pulling himself out of his daze. “Am I?”

“You are,” she said, her tone teasing but soft. “What’s wrong? Not used to seeing me outside of the game?”

Lu Sicheng leaned back, his usual confidence slipping back into place, though it was clear that she had knocked him off balance. “I’m just surprised you agreed to dinner.”

Tong Yao raised an eyebrow. “I thought we were taking things one step at a time?”

“We are,” he said, his gaze softening as he took her in again. “But tonight feels like more than just a step.”

She tilted her head, studying him. “What does it feel like to you?”

He hesitated, trying to find the right words. Lu Sicheng wasn’t used to feeling this way—so captivated by someone that his usual clarity of thought was clouded. But there was no denying the effect she had on him. It wasn’t just her beauty, though that was enough to make anyone weak in the knees. It was the way her mind worked, the way she looked at the world with the same analytical precision she used in the game. And yet, despite all that brilliance, there was a vulnerability about her that made him want to protect her, to be the one who stood by her side.

“I don’t know,” he finally said, his voice quieter than usual. “But I do know that I’m glad you’re here.”

Tong Yao blushed slightly, clearly unaccustomed to the sudden intensity of his attention. She wasn’t used to being the one who turned heads, even though her beauty was undeniable. But there was something different in the way Sicheng looked at her. He wasn’t just seeing her appearance; he was seeing all of her—the woman, the gamer, the brilliant mind behind Smiling. And it made her heart race in ways she hadn’t anticipated.

“You’re different tonight,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “What’s going on with you?”

Lu Sicheng smiled, but it wasn’t the cocky, self-assured smile she was used to seeing. It was softer, more vulnerable. “I guess I’m realizing just how much you’ve gotten under my skin.”

Her heart skipped a beat, and she fidgeted slightly, unsure of how to respond to his sudden honesty. She had known from the beginning that he was interested in her, but this felt deeper. More real. And it scared her.

“I told you from the beginning,” she said, her voice steady but laced with uncertainty. “I don’t know if I can give you what you’re looking for.”

“You’ve already given me more than you think,” he said, his eyes never leaving hers.

For the first time, Tong Yao felt the full weight of his attention—the way he looked at her as if she were the only person in the room, the way his words wrapped around her, making her feel like maybe, just maybe, she wasn’t as unreachable as she had always believed herself to be.

“I’m not easy to get close to,” she said, her voice softer now.

“I’m not looking for easy,” he replied, his tone firm. “I’m looking for you.”

The words hung in the air between them, heavy with meaning. Lu Sicheng had made it clear from the beginning that he was chasing her, but now it was more than just a chase. It was an admission—a confession of sorts—that he wasn’t just interested in the thrill of winning her over. He was interested in her. All of her.

Tong Yao looked away for a moment, trying to gather her thoughts. She had always been good at compartmentalizing her life, keeping things separate, never letting anyone get too close. But now, with Sicheng sitting across from her, looking at her with such intensity, she felt those walls crumbling faster than she could rebuild them.

“I don’t know what you want from me,” she whispered, her voice so quiet that she wasn’t sure if he heard her.

But he did.

“I want whatever you’re willing to give,” he said, his voice gentle but unwavering.

Her heart pounded in her chest, and she felt the weight of his words pressing down on her. For so long, she had convinced herself that she didn’t need anyone, that she could handle everything on her own. But now, with Sicheng sitting there, offering her a chance to take things one step at a time, she realized that maybe she didn’t have to do everything on her own.

Maybe, just maybe, she could let him in.

Tong Yao looked back at him, her eyes softening as she allowed herself to fully take in the moment. “I’m not used to this,” she admitted, her voice trembling slightly.

“Neither am I,” he said with a small smile. “But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth trying.”

The vulnerability in his voice struck her in a way she hadn’t expected. Sicheng was always so confident, so sure of himself. But now, here he was, laying everything on the table for her, willing to take the risk. And for the first time, Tong Yao realized that maybe she wanted to take that risk, too.

“Okay,” she said quietly, her heart pounding in her chest. “One step at a time.”

Lu Sicheng smiled, reaching across the table to take her hand in his. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver down her spine, and for the first time in a long time, Tong Yao felt something other than fear. She felt hope.

And as they sat there, hand in hand, surrounded by the quiet hum of the restaurant, Lu Sicheng knew that he was completely and utterly gone for her.

---

**Later That Night**

When Tong Yao returned to her apartment, she couldn’t stop thinking about the way Lu Sicheng had looked at her all night—as if she were the only thing that mattered in the world. His gaze had been so intense, so full of emotion, that it had left her breathless.

She had always thought she could keep things simple, keep her life compartmentalized. But now, with Sicheng chasing her so relentlessly, she realized that maybe she didn’t want to run anymore.

Maybe she was ready to be caught.

Chapter Text

The long, tree-lined driveway leading up to the Lu Manor always made Lu Sicheng feel a strange sense of nostalgia. Growing up here had been comfortable, but he hadn’t visited much since his gaming career had taken off. Between the endless tournaments and his team responsibilities at ZGDX, there was little reason to come home.

But today was different. Today, he had a reason.

He was coming home to ask his parents for advice. **Dating advice.**

The very thought made him inwardly cringe. He wasn’t one to share his personal life, least of all with his parents. They knew him as their eldest son, the sharp and determined gamer who co-owned ZGDX with his mother, **Lu Wang**, a shrewd businesswoman who was deeply involved in the organization. His father, **Lu Yuchen**, had always taken a quieter role, staying behind the scenes. They had built a solid foundation for Sicheng, one that he now stood on. But this… this was personal.

As he entered the grand foyer of the manor, he was greeted by the faint hum of conversation. His mother and father were in the sitting room, as usual, enjoying their afternoon tea. Lu Wang, dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, glanced up when he walked in, her sharp eyes immediately catching his.

“Sicheng?” she said, surprise lacing her voice. “What a rare visit.”

His father, Lu Yuchen, looked up from his newspaper, equally surprised. “Back already? Didn’t expect to see you until the board meeting next month.”

Lu Sicheng shifted slightly, unused to the vulnerability he was about to reveal. He cleared his throat. “I… needed to talk to you both.”

His mother’s eyebrows raised, a spark of interest flickering in her eyes. “This sounds serious.”

“It is,” he replied, his voice firm. “I need your advice. About someone.”

The room fell silent, and **Lu Wang** and **Lu Yuchen** exchanged a curious glance. His mother, always quick to recover, leaned forward, her eyes narrowing with intrigue. “Someone? As in, a woman?”

His father, usually stoic, let out a low chuckle. “Well, I didn’t see that coming.”

Lu Sicheng rolled his eyes. “I know it sounds strange, but yes. There’s someone I’ve been seeing, and I’m not sure what to do next.”

Lu Wang, never one to miss an opportunity, leaned back with a smirk. “You’ve never asked for advice about relationships before. This must be serious.”

Sicheng hesitated. He wasn’t used to talking about his feelings, especially not with his parents, but this was different. This was about Tong Yao; he didn’t want to mess things up.

“She’s… special,” he said, his voice softer. “Smart, independent. She’s not like anyone I’ve met before.”

His father nodded, encouraging him to continue. “So, what’s the problem?”

Sicheng sighed. “The problem is that she doesn’t let people in easily. I’ve been chasing her, trying to break through those walls, but I don’t want to push her away.”

Lu Wang smiled knowingly. “Sounds familiar. You’re not exactly an open book yourself, Sicheng.”

“I know,” he admitted. “But this feels different. She’s different.”

His mother, who had always been more involved in his professional life than personal, seemed genuinely intrigued. “Does she know who you are in the gaming world?”

Sicheng nodded. “She does, but she’s not part of the pro scene. She’s more of a strategist, an analyst. She’s the kind of person who loves the game but isn’t interested in fame or recognition.”

**Lu Wang** leaned forward, her eyes lighting up with interest. “You’ve found someone who understands the game like you do?”

“More than that,” Sicheng said quietly. “She’s Smiling.”

His mother’s eyes widened, and his father leaned back, visibly impressed. “Smiling? The player everyone’s been talking about?”

Sicheng nodded. “That’s her. She’s been playing under the radar for months, and no one knows who she really is. Except me.”

“Well,” Lu Yuchen said with a chuckle. “That explains the chase.”

His mother looked thoughtful, her business mind already working. “And she doesn’t want to be part of ZGDX or any other team?”

“No,” Sicheng replied. “She’s got her own life. She’s working on her PhD, and gaming is something she does on the side. But I… I want more with her.”

For a moment, his parents were silent, processing the weight of his words. Finally, his mother spoke. “If she’s anything like you, Sicheng, you’ll need to be patient. She’s used to being in control of her own world, and that’s not something she’ll give up easily.”

His father nodded. “You’ve always been determined, and that’s a good thing. But love isn’t about winning a game—it’s about finding balance.”

Lu Sicheng absorbed their advice, grateful for their insight. His mother, despite her reputation for being tough and business-focused, had always had a soft spot for matters of the heart—something Sicheng hadn’t realized until now. And his father, with his quiet wisdom, had given him the perspective he needed.

Lu Wang smiled at her son, her eyes softening. “I’m glad to see you like this, Sicheng. It’s about time you found someone who challenges you.”

Just then, a familiar voice interrupted the conversation.

“You’re getting dating advice? From Mom and Dad?”

Sicheng turned to see his younger brother, Lu Yue, standing in the doorway, grinning like he had just won a prize.

Sicheng sighed, rubbing his temple. “Don’t start.”

Lu Yue chuckled, stepping into the room with a mischievous glint in his eye. “I never thought I’d see the day. Sicheng, the great captain, needs advice on women. This is priceless.”

Ignoring his brother’s teasing, Sicheng looked back at his parents. “I’m serious about her.”

The smirk fell from **Lu Yue’s** face as he realized his brother wasn’t joking. “Wait, you’re actually serious?”

Sicheng nodded, his expression unwavering. “Yeah, I am.”

His mother beamed, a rare smile lighting up her face. “Then you know what you need to do. Be patient, let her come to you, and show her that she’s worth more than just the chase.”

His father nodded in agreement. “Give her time to adjust. You’ve always known what you wanted, Sicheng. Now it’s time to let her realize that she wants the same thing.”

Lu Sicheng felt the tension in his chest ease. His parents were right, and even **Lu Yue**, for all his teasing, seemed to understand how serious this was. Tong Yao was worth every bit of effort, and now he knew exactly how to approach things moving forward.

“Thanks,” he said, his voice softer than usual.

His mother, sensing the weight of his gratitude, reached over and gently patted his hand. “We’re just glad to see you like this.”

Lu Yue smirked, leaning against the doorframe. “Man, I can’t wait to meet her.”

Sicheng shot his brother a warning look. “Don’t ruin this, Yue.”

Lu Yue held up his hands in mock surrender. “Hey, I’m just saying—if she can handle you, she’s gotta be something special.”

Sicheng couldn’t help but grin. “She is.”

---

**Later That Night**

Driving back to the city, Sicheng replayed the conversation in his head. His parents had given him exactly what he needed—patience, balance, and trust. He needed to give Tong Yao the space to open up at her own pace, without pushing her.

His phone buzzed in the passenger seat, and he glanced at the screen. A message from Tong Yao.

**Tong Yao**: “I’ve been thinking… how about dinner again this weekend?”

He smiled, typing back.

**Sicheng**: “Sounds perfect. One step at a time, right?”

Her response was almost immediate.

**Tong Yao**: “One step at a time.”

As the city lights came into view, Sicheng felt a sense of calm wash over him. He knew what he wanted, and now, with his parents’ advice in mind, he knew how to move forward.

He was completely gone for her. And he wasn’t afraid to let her know it.

Chapter Text

Lu Sicheng was always good at planning—whether it was gaming strategies or life decisions, he approached everything with careful thought and precision. But tonight, it wasn’t about outplaying an opponent or leading his team to victory. This time, it was about Tong Yao.

The past few months had been a whirlwind of emotions for him. From the moment he met her, something about her captivated him. She wasn’t like anyone else. Independent, fierce, and guarded—yet, there was a vulnerability hidden deep beneath the surface, one she rarely let anyone see.

After weeks of quiet moments and stolen glances, Sicheng knew it was time to have the conversation that had been lingering between them. He wanted to move forward with her, to make his feelings clear. But to do that, they needed time. Away from the team, away from the pressures of their everyday lives.

He arranged for a quiet dinner at an intimate restaurant, overlooking the city skyline. It wasn’t flashy—Tong Yao hated anything overly grand—but it was thoughtful. The private table on the balcony, bathed in soft candlelight, was perfect for the conversation they needed to have.

---

**Arriving at the Restaurant**

When Tong Yao arrived, she looked stunning in her simple, elegant dress. She appeared a little nervous, and Sicheng couldn’t help but smile at the faint blush on her cheeks. He knew this wasn’t easy for her—letting people in never was.

But Tong Yao had always been a mystery to him, and Sicheng had learned over time that she had good reasons for keeping her walls up. He had sensed it early on, that there was a part of her that preferred solitude, that resisted relying on others. And he had slowly come to understand why.

They had never talked about it directly, but through off-hand comments and guarded looks, Sicheng pieced together parts of her past. He knew about her parents—strict, overbearing, controlling. He knew that they had never been supportive of her career choices or her love for gaming. But what he hadn’t fully grasped until recently was how deep the damage went.

Tong Yao had grown up in an environment where nothing she did was ever good enough. Her parents demanded perfection from her—whether it was in school, behavior, or appearance. They wanted control over every aspect of her life, and when she didn’t meet their impossible standards, the emotional abuse would follow. Constant criticisms, belittling her efforts, making her feel like she was never enough.

Over time, Tong Yao had learned to keep people at a distance. It was safer that way. Letting people in meant giving them power over her—power to hurt her, just like her parents had.

But Sicheng didn’t want to hurt her. He wanted to be there for her, to show her that she didn’t have to carry the weight of her past alone.

“You didn’t have to do all this,” Tong Yao said softly as they sat down, glancing around the candlelit table.

“I wanted to,” Sicheng replied, his voice steady. “We needed some time away. Just us.”

She smiled, though he could see the hesitation in her eyes. “This feels… different.”

“It is,” he said, taking a deep breath. “I think we need to talk.”

---

Tong Yao stiffened slightly at his words, her fingers curling around the edge of her glass. She was quiet for a moment, and Sicheng could see the flicker of fear in her eyes.

“I don’t do well with this kind of thing,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I know,” Sicheng said softly. “But I need you to understand something.”

Her eyes flicked up to meet his, and he held her gaze, his voice gentle but firm. “I’m serious about you, Tong Yao. This isn’t just a game to me.”

She blinked, her lips parting as if to say something, but no words came out. Sicheng could see the internal struggle in her eyes—the desire to believe him, mixed with the fear of letting someone get too close.

“I know you like to keep people at a distance,” he continued, his tone soft but full of conviction. “I know you’ve been hurt before.”

She looked down at her hands, her fingers trembling slightly. “It’s not that simple, Sicheng.”

“I know it’s not,” he said, leaning forward. “But I’m not asking you to change who you are. I’m just asking you to let me in.”

Tong Yao’s breath hitched, and for a moment, she was silent. The memories of her parents’ harsh words, the constant feeling of not being good enough, weighed heavily on her. She had always been told that depending on others was weak, that she had to stand on her own two feet. And for years, she had lived by that rule.

But now, here was Sicheng, asking her to break those rules—to let him see the parts of her she had spent years trying to protect.

“It’s hard,” she whispered, her voice shaky. “I’ve spent so long trying to be independent. To not rely on anyone.”

“I’m not asking you to rely on me,” Sicheng said gently. “I just want to be there for you. You don’t have to face everything alone.”

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, and she quickly blinked them away. She had learned from a young age that showing weakness only led to disappointment. Her parents had taught her that. But Sicheng wasn’t her parents. He wasn’t demanding perfection from her. He was offering her something she had never been given before: unconditional support.

“What if I can’t do it?” she asked, her voice barely audible. “What if I can’t let go of everything I’ve been taught?”

Sicheng’s heart ached at her words. He reached across the table and gently took her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “You don’t have to let go of anything. I’m not asking you to change who you are. I just want to be part of your life—however you’re comfortable with that.”

Tong Yao looked at him, her heart pounding in her chest. For the first time in a long time, she felt seen—truly seen. Sicheng wasn’t asking her to be perfect. He wasn’t trying to control her or make her fit into some mold. He was offering her something she had never known before: freedom. The freedom to be herself, without fear of judgment or rejection.

“I don’t know how to do this,” she admitted, her voice thick with emotion. “I’ve never been good at letting people in.”

Sicheng smiled softly, squeezing her hand. “That’s okay. We’ll figure it out together.”

For a long moment, they sat in silence, the weight of the conversation settling over them. Tong Yao could feel the tension in her chest slowly easing, the walls she had built around herself starting to crumble. It wasn’t easy—it would never be easy—but for the first time in her life, she felt like she didn’t have to carry the burden alone.

“I think I want that,” she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper. “I want to let you in.”

The rest of the evening passed in quiet conversation, the weight of the earlier tension slowly fading away. They talked about everything—about her dissertation, his upcoming matches, the little things that had become part of their daily lives. But underneath it all, there was a new understanding between them. A new beginning.

As they left the restaurant, walking hand in hand through the quiet streets, Tong Yao felt a sense of calm settle over her. For so long, she had been afraid of letting someone get too close, afraid of repeating the same patterns that had haunted her childhood. But now, with Sicheng by her side, she realized that maybe—just maybe—she didn’t have to be afraid anymore.

“I’m glad we did this,” she said softly, glancing up at him.

Sicheng smiled, his fingers intertwining with hers. “Me too.”

And as they walked through the night, the city lights flickering around them, Tong Yao knew that this was the start of something new—something good. She wasn’t alone anymore.

And that was enough.

Chapter Text

The cool night air brushed against their faces as they walked hand in hand through the city streets, the glow of streetlights casting long shadows on the pavement. The earlier conversation at the restaurant had left Tong Yao feeling lighter, as if a weight she’d been carrying for years had finally been lifted. But that lightness also left her vulnerable.

The deeper they went into their relationship, the more exposed she felt. Sicheng was offering her everything she had never known—unconditional love, support, acceptance—but with that came a terrifying realization: she had to face her past. And she wasn’t sure she could do it.

They had reached her apartment, and Tong Yao paused at the entrance, her hand slipping from his as her mind started to spiral. For so long, she had been the one in control—of her emotions, her decisions, her life. She had learned to keep everyone at a distance because it was safer that way. Safer to be alone than to risk being hurt again.

But Sicheng wasn’t letting her do that. He was persistent, breaking through her defenses with his quiet strength. He was showing her that she didn’t have to be alone. But letting him in meant exposing the broken parts of herself—the parts she had spent years hiding.

“I… I think I need to be alone for a while,” Tong Yao whispered, her voice barely audible.

Sicheng stopped, turning to face her, his brow furrowed with concern. “What do you mean?”

Her heart pounded in her chest, the panic rising. She could feel the walls she had built around herself starting to crack, the emotions she had kept buried for so long bubbling up to the surface. She didn’t want to do this—not here, not now—but it was happening anyway.

“I just—” Tong Yao swallowed hard, her hands trembling as she tried to form the words. “I don’t know how to do this, Sicheng. I don’t know how to be with someone like this.”

Sicheng’s expression softened, and he took a step closer, his voice gentle. “You don’t have to figure it out all at once.”

“But I’m—” She stopped, the lump in her throat growing tighter as tears welled up in her eyes. “I’m messed up. I don’t know how to be with someone without pushing them away. I don’t know how to let you love me without ruining it.”

Sicheng’s heart ached at her words. He had known from the start that she was guarded, that she carried a heavy burden, but hearing her say it—hearing the pain in her voice—made it all too real.

He reached out, gently cupping her face in his hands, his thumb brushing away the tear that slipped down her cheek. “You’re not messed up,” he said quietly, his voice steady. “You’ve been hurt, Tong Yao. That’s not the same thing.”

But she shook her head, her tears falling freely now. “You don’t understand. My parents… they made me believe that everything I did was wrong. That I wasn’t good enough, no matter how hard I tried.”

Her voice cracked as the floodgates opened, years of pain and self-doubt spilling out in a torrent of words. “I spent my whole life trying to meet their expectations, trying to be perfect, and it was never enough. They never cared about what I wanted, only about what I could do for them. And when I failed… when I couldn’t be what they wanted, they made me feel like I was worthless.”

Sicheng stood there, his heart breaking for her, his hands still cradling her face. He didn’t interrupt, didn’t try to offer empty reassurances. He just listened, his presence steady and unwavering as she finally let out the pain she had carried for so long.

“I thought if I was perfect, if I didn’t need anyone, I could be okay,” she continued, her voice thick with emotion. “I thought if I stayed alone, I wouldn’t have to deal with the disappointment of not being enough. But now… now I don’t know how to let someone in without feeling like I’m going to fail all over again.”

Sicheng’s chest tightened at her words, his heart aching for the girl she had been—the girl who had been told she wasn’t enough, who had been denied the love and support she deserved. He could see the weight of her past in every word, every tear, and it made him want to hold her and never let go.

“You don’t have to be perfect,” he said softly, his hands gently sliding down to her shoulders. “You don’t have to do everything on your own anymore.”

“I don’t know how,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “I’ve never known how.”

Sicheng pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly as she finally broke down. Her tears soaked his shirt, her body trembling against his, but he didn’t let go. He held her through the storm, letting her cry, letting her feel the emotions she had buried for so long.

“You’re not alone anymore,” he whispered into her hair. “You don’t have to be.”

---

They stood like that for a long time, the quiet night surrounding them as Tong Yao cried into his chest. It was as if years of pain, self-doubt, and fear were finally pouring out of her, and Sicheng could feel the weight of it all in the way she clung to him.

When she finally pulled back, her face streaked with tears, she looked up at him, her eyes searching his for something—reassurance, understanding, maybe even forgiveness.

“I’m scared,” she whispered, her voice fragile.

Sicheng nodded, his hand brushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “I know. And it’s okay to be scared.”

Tong Yao bit her lip, her hands fidgeting nervously in front of her. “I don’t know how to do this. I don’t know how to be with someone without pushing them away.”

“You don’t have to know everything right now,” Sicheng said gently. “We’ll figure it out together. One step at a time.”

She looked at him, her heart pounding in her chest. “What if I mess it up?”

Sicheng smiled softly, his eyes filled with warmth. “Then we’ll fix it. Together.”

The words settled over her like a soothing balm, easing the tension that had gripped her for so long. She wasn’t used to this—having someone who didn’t expect perfection, who didn’t make her feel like a failure for not having all the answers. It was terrifying and comforting all at once.

“Do you really think I can do this?” she asked, her voice quiet, vulnerable.

Sicheng’s expression softened, and he leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “I know you can.”

For the first time in a long time, Tong Yao felt a flicker of hope—a belief that maybe, just maybe, she didn’t have to carry the weight of her past alone anymore. Maybe she could learn to let someone in without losing herself in the process.

She took a deep breath, her fingers brushing against Sicheng’s hand. “Okay,” she whispered. “I’ll try.”

Sicheng smiled, pulling her into another embrace. “That’s all I ask.”

And as they stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, Tong Yao felt something she hadn’t felt in a long time: safe.

Chapter Text

The weeks that followed their first real conversation were a whirlwind of quiet moments and hidden smiles. Their relationship had shifted—there was no more hesitation, no more wondering where they stood. But it wasn’t public. Not yet.

They still kept it secret, navigating their lives in the shadows, careful not to give anything away. Lu Sicheng, ever the strategist, was brilliant at keeping their relationship under wraps, sneaking away from the ZGDX base in the dead of night to spend stolen hours with Tong Yao at her apartment.

---

It became routine. Late at night, after the team had finished practicing and the rest of the ZGDX players had settled in for the night, Lu Sicheng would quietly slip away. With his hoodie pulled up and his footsteps light, he made his way to the front gate of the base, where a ride was already waiting. No one ever questioned him—he was the captain, after all. He could come and go as he pleased.

When he arrived at Tong Yao’s apartment, the world felt different. It was quieter, softer—just the two of them. She always left the door unlocked for him, and when he stepped inside, he was met with the comforting scent of her place, a stark contrast to the noise and energy of the gaming base.

“I was starting to think you wouldn’t make it,” she teased one night, glancing up from her spot on the couch where she had been watching a stream.

He grinned, pulling off his hoodie and tossing it onto a nearby chair. “I always make it. Just had to dodge a few people.”

Tong Yao laughed, shaking her head as he sat down next to her, immediately pulling her into his arms. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And yet, here I am,” he said, his voice low and teasing as he pressed a kiss to her temple.

These quiet, stolen moments became their safe space—a time when they didn’t have to worry about the outside world, where they didn’t have to hide from anyone but enjoyed the secrecy of their blossoming relationship.

---

Their nights together weren’t always spent in front of the TV or on the couch, though. More often than not, they found themselves in front of Tong Yao’s gaming setup, where they’d slip into their familiar roles as teammates, playing ranked games under anonymous aliases.

“What are you doing over there, Smiling?” Sicheng teased one night as Tong Yao led their team through a high-stakes match.

“Carrying, as usual,” she shot back with a smirk, her fingers flying over the keyboard as she executed a perfect play that left the opposing team reeling.

“Not bad,” Sicheng remarked, clearly impressed. “You could have a future in this.”

“Yeah, right,” she scoffed, glancing at him out of the corner of her eye. “I’m fine where I am.”

“You’d be better next to me on stage,” he countered, his voice light but with a serious undertone.

She laughed, shaking her head. “We’ve been over this. I’m not joining a team.”

“Not yet,” he said with a wink, and they continued their game, their banter as seamless as their teamwork.

---

As their relationship grew deeper, so did the complexity of keeping it hidden. With ZGDX always in the spotlight, every move Lu Sicheng made was scrutinized, but he was careful—almost too careful. He never stayed long at Tong Yao’s apartment, slipping away before dawn so no one at the base would notice.

“You’re going to get caught if you keep sneaking around,” Tong Yao warned one night as he pulled his hoodie back on, preparing to head back to the base.

“I haven’t been caught yet,” he replied, bending down to give her a quick kiss. “Besides, I’m good at this.”

She smiled against his lips, shaking her head. “You’re too confident for your own good.”

“That’s why you like me,” he said, smirking as he headed for the door. “I’ll text you when I get back.”

As he disappeared into the night, Tong Yao couldn’t help but feel a sense of thrill at the secrecy, even if it made her nervous. They were balancing on a fine line between private moments and public appearances, and while she trusted Sicheng to keep them hidden, she knew it wouldn’t last forever.

---

While their nights were spent in secret, the occasional afternoon brought them brief, stolen moments together. Between her work on her PhD and his packed schedule at the base, they made time for each other whenever they could. It wasn’t always easy, but they made it work.

One afternoon, after a particularly grueling practice session, Sicheng slipped out of the base and made his way to her apartment. When he arrived, he found her on the floor of her living room, papers scattered around her as she worked on her dissertation.

“Am I interrupting?” he asked, leaning against the doorway with a smirk.

She looked up, her eyes lighting up at the sight of him. “Maybe, but I don’t mind.”

He crossed the room and sat down beside her, glancing at the sea of notes spread across the floor. “You’ve been busy.”

“Just trying to finish up this section,” she replied, setting her pen down. “But I could use a break.”

Without missing a beat, Sicheng pulled her into his arms, and they leaned back against the couch, her head resting on his shoulder. “I missed you,” he murmured softly, his voice just loud enough for her to hear.

“I missed you too,” she replied, her fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on his arm.

These quiet afternoons were their refuge—moments when the rest of the world faded away, leaving only them. They never lasted long, but they didn’t need to. As long as they had these moments, it was enough.

---

But the longer their relationship grew, the harder it became to keep it hidden.

Tong Yao had always been private, but even she could feel the strain of the secrecy. It wasn’t just the sneaking around that was difficult—it was the fact that they couldn’t share what they had with anyone. The quiet smiles, the inside jokes, the way Sicheng’s hand would brush against hers when no one was looking—it was all hidden from the world.

One night, as they sat together on the couch, Sicheng could sense her unease.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, his voice low as he ran his hand through her hair.

She sighed, leaning against him. “I don’t know. I guess… I just wish we didn’t have to keep hiding.”

He was silent for a moment, his hand pausing in her hair. “I know,” he finally said. “But right now, this is the best way to protect what we have. Once we’re ready, we can tell people.”

“I know,” she murmured. “It’s just… hard.”

He kissed the top of her head. “We’ll figure it out. One step at a time, remember?”

She smiled softly, nodding. “One step at a time.”

---

Despite the challenges, their relationship continued to deepen. Each night he snuck away to her apartment, each stolen kiss, and each quiet moment shared in her living room made them stronger. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.

And slowly, bit by bit, they learned how to navigate the delicate balance between their private world and the public one.

As they stood in her kitchen one evening, cooking dinner together, Sicheng turned to her with a smile. “You know, I never thought I’d be sneaking around like this.”

She laughed, handing him the bowl of vegetables. “Yeah, well, neither did I.”

“I’m glad I am, though,” he said, his voice soft as he looked at her.

She raised an eyebrow. “Oh yeah?”

“Yeah,” he replied, leaning down to kiss her. “Because it means I get to be with you.”

And in that moment, as they stood in the warm light of her kitchen, their relationship hidden from the world, Tong Yao realized that it didn’t matter how long they had to keep it a secret.

As long as they had each other, it was enough.

Chapter Text

The invitation had been looming for weeks now, ever since Sicheng had casually mentioned that his family wanted to officially meet Tong Yao. Although they had crossed paths briefly at various ZGDX events, this was different. This was intimate. Personal. And that terrified her.

“I don’t know if I’m ready for this,” Tong Yao confessed one evening as she paced around her living room. Sicheng, sprawled comfortably on her couch, watched her with an amused grin.

“You’ve faced worse,” he teased, “like when you completely embarrassed those pro players in ranked.”

She shot him a look, her nerves too raw for jokes. “This is different. This is your family.”

Sicheng stood up, crossing the room and gently taking her hands to stop her pacing. “Relax. You’ve already met them in passing, and they already like you.”

“That’s different,” she argued, biting her lip. “This is a formal dinner. What if I say something wrong? What if they don’t like me?”

He smiled, squeezing her hands gently. “They’ll love you. And if they don’t, it doesn’t matter. I love you.”

The words made her freeze, her heart skipping a beat as they hung in the air between them. He had said it before, but each time felt just as powerful. She smiled, her nerves easing ever so slightly.

“Okay,” she said, taking a deep breath. “I’ll try not to freak out.”

---

The night of the dinner came faster than Tong Yao had anticipated. Lu Sicheng arrived at her apartment to pick her up, looking as calm and collected as ever. He had dressed simply, though still stylishly, in a dark button-down and jeans. Tong Yao, on the other hand, had spent the entire day second-guessing her outfit choices before settling on a simple yet elegant dress that was comfortable but still made her feel confident.

“You look perfect,” Sicheng said, pressing a kiss to her forehead as she opened the door.

“You always say that,” she mumbled, trying to brush off the compliment, but the warmth in his eyes made her heart flutter.

“And I always mean it,” he replied, taking her hand as they headed out the door.

The drive to Lu Manor felt both long and short at the same time. Tong Yao’s nerves built with every passing minute, but Sicheng’s steady presence beside her helped keep them from boiling over. He had one hand on the steering wheel, the other resting comfortably on her knee, grounding her with a quiet, unspoken reassurance.

---

When they pulled up to the Lu Manor, Tong Yao felt her stomach flip. The sprawling estate was beautiful, surrounded by lush gardens and towering trees. It exuded a quiet elegance, much like Sicheng’s mother, Lu Wang.

“Ready?” Sicheng asked as he parked the car, turning to look at her.

Tong Yao took a deep breath and nodded. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

He gave her hand one last squeeze before they stepped out of the car, walking together up the grand steps leading to the entrance. The door opened before they could knock, revealing Lu Yuchen, Sicheng’s father, who greeted them with a warm smile.

“Ah, Sicheng, you made it,” he said, stepping aside to let them in. His eyes landed on Tong Yao, his smile widening. “And you must be Tong Yao. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you properly.”

“Thank you for having me,” Tong Yao said, giving a polite nod as they stepped inside.

The manor was as grand as she remembered, with high ceilings, elegant furnishings, and an atmosphere that was both inviting and intimidating. She had been here before, of course, for ZGDX-related matters, but this was the first time it felt personal.

“Come in, come in,” Lu Wang called from the dining room, her voice carrying with the same authority and warmth that made her such a formidable figure on the ZGDX board. “Dinner’s almost ready.”

Sicheng led Tong Yao into the dining room, where his mother was waiting at the head of the table, impeccably dressed as always. She gave Tong Yao an approving look, clearly pleased to see her.

“It’s so nice to finally have you here,” Lu Wang said as they sat down. “Sicheng talks about you often.”

Tong Yao blushed slightly, shooting a quick look at Sicheng, who smirked in response. “Does he?”

“Oh, constantly,” Lu Yuchen added with a chuckle as he sat down beside his wife. “Though, I think this is the first time he’s brought someone home like this.”

Tong Yao’s blush deepened, but she managed a small smile. “Well, I hope it’s good things.”

“All good,” Sicheng said, taking her hand under the table. “They already like you.”

---

Dinner was an elegant affair, with course after course of beautifully prepared food. Tong Yao found herself relaxing more as the evening went on, especially with Sicheng’s parents being so welcoming and warm. They asked about her studies, her gaming experience, and even some of her future plans—all of which she answered honestly, though carefully.

As the conversation flowed, Lu Wang watched the interaction between Tong Yao and Sicheng closely, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth.

“You know, Sicheng is lucky to have you,” Lu Wang said at one point, her tone surprisingly soft. “I’ve never seen him this… grounded.”

Tong Yao blinked in surprise, glancing at Sicheng, who looked equally caught off guard.

“What do you mean?” she asked, unsure if it was a compliment or something else.

Lu Wang smiled, her sharp eyes softening. “Sicheng is driven, ambitious, and always focused. But since he’s been with you, I’ve noticed a change. He’s more balanced, more… human.”

Tong Yao’s heart swelled at the words, a sense of pride washing over her. She squeezed Sicheng’s hand under the table, feeling his fingers tighten around hers.

“He’s lucky to have you,” Lu Yuchen added, raising his glass. “To Sicheng and Tong Yao—may you continue to challenge each other and grow together.”

Tong Yao smiled shyly as the others raised their glasses, feeling a sense of belonging that she hadn’t expected. Despite the nerves that had plagued her earlier, she realized that she was exactly where she needed to be—right by Sicheng’s side.

---

When dinner finally ended, and the dishes were cleared away, Lu Wang pulled Sicheng aside to speak privately, leaving Tong Yao with Lu Yuchen for a few moments.

“You’ve made quite the impression on his mother,” Lu Yuchen said, his voice light with amusement.

Tong Yao smiled. “I hope so. I was really nervous.”

“You had no reason to be,” he replied. “Sicheng is stubborn, but when he’s sure of something, he’s all in. And he’s clearly all in with you.”

His words made her heart race, but it was a comforting feeling. “Thank you,” she said quietly.

As they stood in the quiet of the dining room, Lu Wang and Sicheng reappeared, their conversation finished. Sicheng crossed the room and took Tong Yao’s hand, his eyes full of warmth and reassurance.

“Ready to go?” he asked softly.

She nodded, her heart feeling lighter than it had in weeks.

---

As they drove back to her apartment, the night air cool and refreshing, Tong Yao couldn’t stop smiling. The evening had gone better than she had ever expected, and the warmth from Sicheng’s family made her feel like she was truly a part of his world.

“You did great tonight,” Sicheng said, his voice breaking the comfortable silence.

“I was so nervous,” she admitted, glancing at him.

“I know,” he said with a smile. “But I told you they’d love you.”

Tong Yao let out a soft laugh, leaning back in her seat as the city lights passed by. “I guess I just didn’t want to mess it up.”

“You could never mess this up,” he replied, his voice soft but full of conviction. “We’re in this together.”

She looked at him, her heart swelling with affection. “I know.”

And as they drove through the city, hand in hand, Tong Yao realized that the secret they were keeping wasn’t a burden—it was a gift. A gift they were both choosing to protect until the time was right.

And when that time came, she knew they’d be ready.

Chapter Text

Life at the ZGDX base had always followed a predictable rhythm. Early mornings filled with practice, afternoons spent reviewing game strategies, and late nights spent grinding ranked games. Lu Sicheng was the unshakable captain—calm, collected, and always focused on the team’s next victory.

But lately, things had changed.

It wasn’t a massive shift—no sudden break in his composure or wild, out-of-character behavior—but it was noticeable. To the rest of the team, Sicheng’s normally sharp, unflinching demeanor had softened. It was in the way he smiled more easily, the way he seemed more patient during practice, and the subtle but undeniable change in his focus.

And the team had started to notice.

---

Old Cat, ZGDX’s top laner, had been the first to spot the differences. He watched Sicheng closely during their practice sessions, his sharp eyes catching the small, almost imperceptible changes in his captain’s behavior.

One afternoon, after a grueling practice match, Old Cat glanced over at Sicheng, who was sitting at his desk, texting someone with a small smile playing at his lips. It wasn’t a smug smirk, the kind Sicheng usually flashed when he outplayed someone in the game. No, this was something different. Softer.

Curious, Old Cat nudged K, who was sitting next to him. “Hey, look at Sicheng. He’s smiling.”

K glanced over, frowning slightly. “Yeah, so?”

Old Cat shook his head, his expression thoughtful. “No, I mean, he’s *smiling*. Like a real smile. He doesn’t do that.”

K raised an eyebrow. “You’re right. He’s been like that for a while now. I thought it was because we’ve been winning more lately.”

Old Cat chuckled. “Nah, this is different. It’s not about the game. Something’s going on.”

K leaned back in his chair, glancing over at Sicheng, who was still engrossed in his phone. “Think he’s got something going on outside of the team?”

Old Cat shrugged, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Maybe. He’s been sneaking out of the base a lot at night, hasn’t he?”

K’s eyes widened. “You think… he’s dating someone?”

Old Cat grinned, clearly amused by the idea. “I don’t know, but whatever it is, it’s definitely not just about gaming.”

---

It wasn’t long before Lu Yue, Sicheng’s younger brother, also started to notice something was off.

One evening, after a particularly tough practice, Lu Yue dropped down next to Sicheng, who had been distractedly scrolling through his phone.

“You’re late again,” Lu Yue remarked casually, casting a sidelong glance at his brother. “I came by your room last night, but you weren’t here.”

Sicheng didn’t look up, but a small smirk tugged at his lips. “I had something to take care of.”

“Something or someone?” Lu Yue teased, raising an eyebrow.

Sicheng’s smirk widened, but he didn’t reply, his attention still on his phone. Lu Yue stared at him for a moment, then leaned in closer, clearly intrigued. “You’ve been sneaking out a lot lately. Anything you want to share?”

Sicheng finally glanced up, his expression calm but guarded. “Nope.”

Lu Yue narrowed his eyes. “You’ve got a secret, don’t you?”

Sicheng shrugged, turning back to his phone. “Maybe.”

Lu Yue huffed, clearly frustrated by his brother’s evasiveness. “Fine, keep your secret. But don’t think I won’t figure it out eventually.”

Sicheng just chuckled, clearly enjoying the game. “Good luck with that.”

---

As the weeks passed, the rest of the ZGDX team began to notice more changes in Sicheng’s behavior.

During practice, he seemed more relaxed—less strict with his critiques, more encouraging with his feedback. He even laughed more, something that was practically unheard of before. The other players had always admired Sicheng for his level-headedness, but now they were starting to wonder what had shifted.

“Did you see the way Sicheng actually laughed at something K said earlier?” Pang remarked one afternoon, nudging Ming, the team’s mid player.

Ming looked up, frowning slightly. “Yeah, I did. It’s weird, right?”

“I don’t know,” Pang said, scratching his head. “It’s like he’s… happy?”

“Since when is Sicheng happy?” Ming replied, his voice laced with confusion. “He’s always been so serious.”

Pang shrugged. “Maybe something’s changed. Maybe he’s got something going on outside the game.”

Ming narrowed his eyes, deep in thought. “Or someone.”

The entire team shared knowing looks, the idea slowly dawning on all of them. Sicheng had been acting differently for weeks now, and there was only one explanation that made sense.

Their captain was in love.

---

The suspicions only grew stronger one afternoon when Sicheng made a rare slip-up during practice. They had been in the middle of a practice match, their team fighting hard to maintain control of the game. Sicheng, as always, was cool under pressure, issuing commands and strategizing as the game unfolded.

But then, out of nowhere, his focus seemed to slip.

“Smiling, push the wave,” he commanded, his voice calm and controlled.

The room went silent.

Everyone turned to look at Sicheng, their faces a mix of confusion and surprise. Smiling was an online alias was Tong Yao’s alias, to be exact. She wasn’t part of their team, and yet, Sicheng had just given an order as if she were.

Sicheng blinked, realizing his mistake, but his expression remained neutral. “I meant K. Sorry.”

K raised an eyebrow but didn’t say anything, though the rest of the team exchanged glances.

After the scrim ended, Old Cat couldn’t resist bringing it up. “Sicheng, you called K ‘Smiling’ during the game. What’s up with that?”

Sicheng shrugged, his face unreadable. “Slip of the tongue.”

Old Cat smirked. “Yeah? Or maybe you’ve been spending too much time with Smiling.”

The entire room seemed to tense, the unspoken question hanging in the air. Sicheng, however, didn’t respond. He simply gathered his things and left the practice room, leaving the rest of the team in stunned silence.

---

Later that night, after Sicheng had left the base (presumably to meet with Tong Yao, though no one could prove it), the rest of the team gathered in the common area, clearly trying to piece together the puzzle.

“He’s definitely seeing someone,” K said, leaning back in his chair.

“It’s gotta be Smiling,” Ming added, crossing his arms. “There’s no other explanation.”

Pang nodded, his eyes wide with realization. “It makes sense. He’s been sneaking out, acting all weird, and now he’s slipping up during practice. He’s in deep.”

“But why keep it a secret?” Old Cat wondered aloud. “If he’s dating someone, why not just tell us?”

The room fell quiet, each of them trying to figure it out.

“He’s probably trying to protect her,” K finally said, his voice thoughtful. “Smiling’s not part of the team, and maybe they don’t want the media or the fans making a big deal out of it.”

Ming nodded in agreement. “Yeah, that makes sense. If people found out, it’d be all over the gaming forums.”

The rest of the team nodded, their suspicions confirmed. **Sicheng was definitely in a relationship**—and from the way he’d been acting, it was serious.

---

Later that night, after everyone had gone to bed, Sicheng slipped out of the base once again, making his way to Tong Yao’s apartment. As usual, the city was quiet, and the streets were empty as he arrived at her door.

Tong Yao greeted him with a smile, her eyes lighting up the moment she saw him. “You made it.”

“Of course,” Sicheng replied, stepping inside and pulling her into his arms. “I always make it.”

As they settled in for another quiet night together, Sicheng couldn’t help but think about how much his life had changed since Tong Yao had come into it. And while the team might have started to notice the differences in him, he wasn’t ready to share their secret just yet.

For now, it was still just theirs.

Chapter Text

The next morning at the ZGDX base, the tension was palpable. Sicheng’s slip-up from the day before had only fueled the team’s curiosity. They had all spent the night turning over the situation in their heads, and now, as they gathered for another day of practice, no one could ignore the unspoken question lingering in the air.

Was their captain really seeing someone? And if so, why had he kept it from them?

---

As practice began, **Old Cat** shot a sideways glance at **Ming**, who was fidgeting in his seat. “You gonna ask him?” Old Cat whispered.

Ming shook his head quickly, his eyes wide. “No way. You saw how he just walked out yesterday. He’s keeping something from us.”

Old Cat smirked, glancing over at Sicheng, who was seated at his computer, his usual calm and unreadable expression on his face. “He’s definitely hiding something. And I bet it’s *her*.”

Pang, who had overheard them, leaned in closer. “It’s gotta be Smiling. He doesn’t just slip up like that. And have you noticed how he’s always sneaking out of the base at night?”

K, always the more observant one, chimed in, his voice quieter but certain. “Yeah, but have you noticed that every time he sneaks out, he’s more relaxed the next day? It’s like something—or *someone*—is putting him in a better mood.”

The group exchanged knowing looks, their suspicions growing stronger by the minute.

As they prepared for the day’s scrims, Old Cat couldn’t help but push things a little further. “Hey, Sicheng,” he called, leaning back in his chair. “What’s up with you calling K ‘Smiling’ yesterday?”

Sicheng didn’t look up from his screen. “I told you, it was a slip of the tongue.”

“Sure it was,” Old Cat replied with a grin. “You’ve been making a lot of those lately.”

Sicheng finally glanced over, his expression calm but firm. “I wouldn’t read too much into it.”

Ming, always bolder than the others, leaned forward. “Come on, Sicheng. You’ve been sneaking out every night. We’re your team. You can tell us what’s going on.”

Sicheng raised an eyebrow, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. “You guys really don’t have anything better to do than speculate about my personal life?”

K chuckled from his seat. “Not when you’re being all mysterious about it.”

For a moment, it seemed like Sicheng might brush them off, as he usually did. But then, to everyone’s surprise, he leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms, looking at them with a slight, amused smile.

“You want to know what’s going on?” he asked, his tone light, but there was a weight behind his words.

The room fell silent, the other players exchanging glances. No one had expected Sicheng to actually address the situation so directly.

Old Cat was the first to speak, his voice cautious. “Are you seeing someone?”

Sicheng didn’t answer right away, but the smirk on his face told them all they needed to know. “What do you think?”

The team erupted in murmurs and whispers, each player exchanging excited and shocked glances. Sicheng, the cool and composed captain, was actually admitting to something they had all suspected.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Ming muttered under his breath, still processing the idea. “I can’t believe it.”

Old Cat grinned, clearly enjoying the revelation. “I knew it! So, who is she?”

Sicheng’s smirk deepened, but he remained vague. “That’s for me to know.”

K raised an eyebrow. “And us to find out?”

“Maybe,” Sicheng replied, his voice light but noncommittal. “Or maybe not.”

---

Despite Sicheng’s evasive answers, the team was more convinced than ever that he was in a relationship—and that it had something to do with **Smiling**. The more they thought about it, the more everything seemed to make sense.

Pang, who had been quiet for most of the morning, finally spoke up as they took a break between games. “I bet it’s Smiling.”

Old Cat nodded. “It has to be. I mean, he slipped up and called K by her name yesterday. It’s obvious.”

K, still skeptical, frowned. “But why keep it a secret? We all know her. It’s not like we’d freak out if he was dating her.”

Ming shrugged. “Maybe they’re trying to keep things private for a while. You know how crazy fans can get. If word got out that Sicheng was dating Smiling, the media would be all over it.”

The rest of the team nodded in agreement. It made sense. Sicheng and Smiling were both well-known in the gaming community, and if their relationship went public, it would be a huge deal. But still, it didn’t explain why Sicheng had been so secretive about it.

---

That night, Sicheng slipped out of the base once again. He had become so practiced at sneaking out that he barely even thought about it anymore. His hoodie pulled up and his footsteps quiet, he made his way down the familiar streets toward Tong Yao’s apartment.

When he arrived, she was waiting for him at the door, her eyes lighting up the moment she saw him.

“You made it,” she said with a smile, stepping aside to let him in.

“Always do,” Sicheng replied, pulling her into his arms the moment the door closed behind him.

She laughed softly, leaning into him. “How was practice?”

“Chaotic,” he admitted, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “The team’s starting to catch on.”

Tong Yao pulled back slightly, her eyes widening in surprise. “Really?”

He nodded, a smirk playing at his lips. “Yeah. They’re suspicious. They’re convinced I’m seeing someone.”

“Well, they’re not wrong,” she teased, reaching up to run her fingers through his hair.

Sicheng sighed, his smirk fading slightly. “It’s getting harder to keep things quiet.”

Tong Yao frowned, her expression thoughtful. “Do you think we should tell them?”

“I don’t know,” he admitted, his voice softer now. “It’s not that I don’t trust them. It’s just… I like having this to ourselves.”

She nodded, understanding. “I do too. But we can’t keep it a secret forever.”

“I know,” he said, pulling her closer. “But for now, I just want this. Just us.”

She smiled, resting her head against his chest. “Me too.”

---

The next morning, the ZGDX team gathered once again for practice. But today, the atmosphere was different. There was a buzz of curiosity in the air, and it was clear that no one could focus entirely on the game.

Sicheng, as always, was calm and collected, but there was a knowing glint in his eyes as he glanced around at his teammates. He knew they were close to figuring it out, and while part of him enjoyed the game of keeping them in the dark, another part of him wondered how long they could keep this up.

As practice continued, Old Cat finally couldn’t take it anymore. “Come on, Sicheng,” he said, breaking the silence. “Just tell us already. Is it Smiling?”

Sicheng looked up from his computer, his expression calm but amused. “What makes you think it’s her?”

K rolled his eyes. “You literally called me Smiling yesterday.”

Sicheng smirked, leaning back in his chair. “Maybe.”

“Maybe?” Pang echoed, clearly frustrated by the lack of a clear answer. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Sicheng didn’t reply, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he turned back to his computer. “You’ll find out soon enough.”

The team groaned in unison, clearly exasperated by their captain’s cryptic responses. But despite their frustration, they couldn’t deny one thing: Lu Sicheng was happy. Happier than he had been in a long time.

And that was enough.

For now.

Chapter Text

The day had started like any other, with the usual buzz of activity and responsibilities. Tong Yao had been focused on errands and meetings, her mind preoccupied with to-do lists, dissertation review, and her upcoming analysis session for an her research. She had texted Lu Sicheng throughout the day, their lighthearted banter bringing a smile to her face even in the middle of her busiest moments.

She was on her way home when it happened.

The streets were crowded as she drove, the early evening traffic heavy. She was almost at the intersection when she noticed the car to her left moving erratically, veering closer to her lane. Tong Yao’s heart skipped a beat as she instinctively hit the brakes, hoping to avoid the sudden threat.

But there wasn’t enough time.

In a flash, she felt the sickening impact. Metal collided with metal, a force that shook her entire body and sent her car spinning. Her vision blurred, her heart racing as the world tilted around her. The deafening sound of crunching metal filled her ears, followed by a sharp, searing pain that radiated from her left side. She tried to hold onto something, anything, as the car came to a shuddering halt.

The silence that followed was eerie, thick with the lingering shock of the crash. She could hear muffled voices outside, people shouting, footsteps approaching. But everything felt distant, like she was underwater, her senses dulled by the haze of pain.

Her head throbbed, each heartbeat sending a fresh wave of agony through her skull. She tried to lift her hand, to reach for her phone and call someone—Sicheng, anyone—but her body refused to respond. Every movement was met with a stabbing pain, her body protesting even the smallest motion.

In those moments, fear settled over her like a blanket. She wasn’t sure how badly she was hurt, but the pain was overwhelming, consuming. The realization that she was alone, trapped in the wreckage, filled her with a sense of helplessness she hadn’t felt in years.

As her vision began to blur and darkness crept at the edges of her consciousness, Tong Yao’s last thought was of Sicheng. His face, his voice, his steady presence—all of it anchored her, giving her something to hold onto as the world faded away.

---

When Tong Yao finally drifted back to awareness, she was no longer in the car. There was a new, sterile smell in the air, and the sounds around her had shifted to the soft beeping of machines, the hum of fluorescent lights. Her body felt heavy, each part of her weighted down by exhaustion and pain.

She tried to open her eyes, but the effort was overwhelming, her senses fogged by what she assumed were painkillers. Bits and pieces of memories floated through her mind—the crash, the pain, the fear—but nothing felt real. She was caught somewhere between awareness and sleep, the haze making it impossible to piece together what had happened.

Then, she heard a voice—a deep, familiar voice that cut through the fog, grounding her.

“Sicheng…” she murmured, though she wasn’t sure if the word had even left her lips.

But she could feel him there, a steady presence beside her. She wanted to tell him she was okay, that she was still here, but her body refused to cooperate. So she let herself drift again, comforted by the knowledge that he was by her side.

---

The day started like any other. The ZGDX team was in the middle of a busy practice schedule, focused on their upcoming matches. Everything was routine, everything in place. But life has a way of flipping the ordinary into chaos in a single moment.

Lu Sicheng, ever the composed captain, sat at his usual spot in the practice room, reviewing game footage while the rest of the team prepped for their next scrim. His mind wasn’t on the game, though. It was on **Tong Yao**.

She had a busy day planned, filled with dissertation meetings and a few errands. They hadn’t had much time together over the last few days, but they had texted throughout the morning. Their banter, full of teasing and warmth, was a bright spot in his otherwise hectic day.

He had just glanced at his phone, debating whether to send her another message, when his phone buzzed. The screen lit up with an incoming call from an unknown number. He frowned, hesitating for a second before answering.

“This is Lu Sicheng,” he said, his voice steady.

“Mr. Lu,” a voice came through, somber and urgent. “This is from City Hospital. We’re calling regarding a **Tong Yao**.”

Sicheng’s heart stopped. He sat up straight, his grip on the phone tightening. “What happened?”

The voice on the other end paused for a moment, as if choosing their words carefully. “Ms. Tong Yao was involved in a car accident earlier today. She’s been brought to the emergency room with serious injuries. You’re listed as her emergency contact.”

The rest of the words faded into a dull hum in his ears. The blood drained from his face, and his entire world seemed to tilt off balance.

“She—she’s at City Hospital?” he managed to choke out, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Yes, sir. She’s currently undergoing emergency surgery. The doctors are doing everything they can.”

Everything around him seemed to blur. The practice room, the voices of his teammates—it all fell away, leaving only a crushing weight in his chest.

“I’ll be there,” he said, his voice low but firm. He ended the call, his hands shaking as he stared down at the phone. For a moment, he couldn’t move. He couldn’t breathe.

Tong Yao. His Tong Yao. The woman who had slowly but surely filled every corner of his life—she was hurt. Badly.

---

Sicheng stood abruptly, causing his chair to scrape loudly against the floor. The rest of the team looked up, startled by the sudden movement.

“Sicheng?” Old Cat asked, concern creeping into his voice.

But Sicheng didn’t answer. His mind was racing, panic bubbling just beneath the surface as he grabbed his hoodie and keys. Without a word, he stormed out of the room, his footsteps quick and purposeful.

The others watched him go, confusion etched on their faces.

“What the hell just happened?” Ming asked, looking at the others.

Old Cat frowned, glancing at the door where Sicheng had just disappeared. “I don’t know… but something’s wrong.”

Sicheng didn’t hear any of it. He was already in his car, speeding through the city streets toward the hospital. His heart pounded in his chest, his hands gripping the steering wheel so tightly his knuckles turned white.

Every second felt like an eternity.

Flashes of their time together ran through his mind—their secret late-night meetings, her laugh, the way she would tease him about his serious demeanor. He could see her smile, the way she looked at him when she thought no one else was watching. The warmth of her touch, the sound of her voice. And now… now she was lying in a hospital bed, fighting for her life.

He cursed under his breath, pushing the car faster, weaving through traffic. He had to get to her. He had to be there. He couldn’t lose her. Not now. Not ever.

---

When Sicheng arrived at City Hospital, he rushed through the doors, his heart racing as he approached the front desk.

“I’m here for **Tong Yao**,” he said, his voice breathless and urgent. “She was brought in after a car accident.”

The nurse behind the desk nodded, her expression sympathetic. “Ms. Tong Yao is still in surgery. Please have a seat in the waiting area, and the doctor will come speak with you as soon as there’s any news.”

Sicheng nodded numbly, though he couldn’t bring himself to sit. His mind was a whirlwind of fear and helplessness. He paced the waiting room, his phone clutched tightly in his hand, checking it every few minutes even though he knew there wouldn’t be any updates.

Minutes turned into hours. He had never felt more powerless in his life. For all his skill, all his strategic thinking, there was nothing he could do now but wait.

He couldn’t even tell the team what had happened. The only person he wanted to talk to—the only person he wanted to see—was behind the doors of that operating room, fighting to stay alive.

---

After what felt like an eternity, a doctor finally appeared, her face grave but composed. Sicheng rushed toward her, his heart in his throat.

“How is she?” he asked, his voice tight with fear.

The doctor gave him a small, reassuring smile, though her expression remained serious. “Ms. Tong Yao is stable, but her injuries are severe. She suffered multiple fractures and internal injuries from the impact. We’ve done everything we can, but the next 24 to 48 hours are critical. She’ll be in the ICU for close monitoring.”

Sicheng swallowed hard, his heart heavy with the weight of the news. “Can I see her?”

The doctor hesitated for a moment before nodding. “She’s unconscious right now, but you can sit with her. Please keep in mind that she’s still in critical condition.”

Sicheng nodded, barely able to process the words. All that mattered was that he could be with her, that he could see her.

The doctor led him down the sterile hallway, the walls a blur of white and gray. When they reached the ICU, the nurse on duty directed him to Tong Yao’s room. Sicheng took a deep breath before stepping inside.

---

The sight of Tong Yao lying in the hospital bed took his breath away.

She looked so small, so fragile beneath the layers of bandages and tubes. Her face was pale, her body still, save for the slow rise and fall of her chest. Machines beeped quietly beside her, their rhythmic sounds the only indication that she was still with him.

Sicheng walked slowly to her side, his legs feeling like they might give out at any moment. He sat down in the chair beside her bed, his eyes never leaving her face.

“Tong Yao,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

There was no response. She was still, lost in the depths of unconsciousness. But she was alive. She was still fighting.

Sicheng reached out, gently taking her hand in his. It was cold, too cold, and the chill sent a shiver down his spine. He squeezed her hand gently, willing her to feel his presence, to know that he was there.

“I’m here,” he whispered, his voice breaking. “I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere.”

He stayed like that for hours, holding her hand, his eyes never leaving her face. The world outside the room ceased to exist. There was only her—only Tong Yao—and the hope that she would wake up. That she would come back to him.

And as the night wore on, Sicheng made a silent promise.

He wasn’t going to lose her.

Chapter Text

The hours passed in a blur for Lu Sicheng. Time had lost all meaning as he sat by Tong Yao’s bedside, holding her hand, his thoughts consumed by fear and worry. The rhythmic beeping of the machines next to her bed was the only sound in the otherwise quiet room, a constant reminder that she was still with him, still fighting.

But as the hours wore on, Sicheng knew he couldn’t stay in this bubble forever. The team would start to wonder where he was. He had rushed out of the base so suddenly that morning, without any explanation, and by now, they were likely scrambling to figure out what had happened.

His phone buzzed with missed calls and messages from the team—Old Cat, K, Pang, and Ming—all trying to get in touch with him. He had ignored them for hours, but now, staring at Tong Yao’s pale face, he knew it was time to let them know what was going on.

With a heavy sigh, Sicheng pulled his phone from his pocket and dialed Ming’s number.

---

Ming answered almost immediately, his voice filled with concern. “Sicheng? Where the hell are you? We’ve been trying to reach you all day.”

Sicheng closed his eyes, leaning back in his chair as he tried to find the words. “I’m at the hospital.”

“The hospital?” Ming’s voice was sharp with panic. “Are you okay? What happened?”

“It’s not me,” Sicheng said quietly, his throat tightening. “It’s Tong Yao.”

There was a long silence on the other end of the line. Ming’s voice, when he spoke again, was quieter, more serious. “Tong Yao? What happened?”

“She was in a car accident,” Sicheng replied, his voice barely above a whisper. “It’s bad, Ming. She’s in the ICU. The doctors… they’re not sure what’s going to happen.”

Ming let out a soft curse, the weight of the situation sinking in. “And you’re there with her?”

“Yeah,” Sicheng said, his eyes drifting back to Tong Yao’s still form. “I’ve been here all day.”

Another silence. Then, quietly, Ming asked the question that had been lingering on everyone’s minds for weeks. “Sicheng… are you and Tong Yao… together?”

Sicheng didn’t hesitate. There was no point in hiding it anymore. “Yes. We’ve been together for a while.”

Ming let out a breath, and Sicheng could hear the wheels turning in his mind as the pieces of the puzzle finally fell into place.

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Ming asked, his voice softer now, more understanding than accusatory.

“We wanted to keep it private,” Sicheng admitted. “It wasn’t about hiding from you guys. It was just… ours. But now… I don’t know.”

Ming was quiet for a moment, processing the information. When he spoke again, his tone was gentle. “You should’ve told us, man. We’re your team. We would’ve understood.”

Sicheng closed his eyes, guilt washing over him. “I know. But right now, all I care about is her getting better.”

“I get it,” Ming replied. “Look, we’re all worried about you. Do you want us to come to the hospital? The rest of the team’s been freaking out, and now that we know it’s Tong Yao… well, we want to be there.”

Sicheng hesitated, glancing at Tong Yao. Part of him wanted to keep this moment private, to stay with her alone until she woke up. But another part of him—the part that knew he couldn’t carry this weight alone—wanted his team with him. They had been through so much together already, and now, in one of the darkest moments of his life, he realized he needed them more than ever.

“Yeah,” Sicheng finally said. “Come.”

---

It didn’t take long for the team to arrive. Ming, Old Cat, Pang, and K had all dropped everything and rushed to the hospital as soon as they got Sicheng’s call. When they walked into the waiting room, the tension and worry on their faces were clear.

“Sicheng,” Old Cat said, walking up to him and pulling him into a quick, awkward hug. It wasn’t something they did often, but the gravity of the situation called for it.

“Is she okay?” K asked, his voice hushed, as if speaking too loudly would shatter the fragile calm of the hospital.

Sicheng shook his head, his expression grim. “She’s stable, but the next 24 to 48 hours are critical. The doctors are doing everything they can, but…”

He didn’t finish the sentence. He didn’t need to. The fear in his eyes said it all.

The team exchanged glances, their hearts heavy with the weight of the situation. No one knew what to say. They had come here expecting to support Sicheng, but now that they were face to face with the reality of it, they realized just how serious this was.

Ming, always the one to break the silence, stepped forward and placed a hand on Sicheng’s shoulder. “We’re here for you, man. Whatever you need.”

Sicheng nodded, grateful for their presence, but his eyes kept drifting back to the door of Tong Yao’s room. She was still in there, still fighting, and all he could do was wait.

Old Cat cleared his throat, his usual bravado gone as he glanced around the sterile waiting room. “So… Tong Yao. How long?”

Sicheng sighed, running a hand through his hair. “A few months. We didn’t plan for it to be a secret, but things just… happened.”

Pang nodded, understanding. “Yeah, we figured something was going on. You’ve been sneaking out a lot lately.”

K chuckled softly, though there was no humor in it. “You’re not as sneaky as you think, Sicheng. We’ve been suspicious for weeks.”

Sicheng gave them a tired smile, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, I guess I wasn’t as subtle as I thought.”

---

The hours dragged on. The team stayed with Sicheng, offering quiet support as they waited for any news about Tong Yao’s condition. They talked in hushed voices, exchanging stories and memories, trying to keep the atmosphere light despite the heavy cloud of uncertainty hanging over them.

Old Cat, ever the joker, tried to make a joke about Sicheng’s secret romance, but it fell flat. No one was in the mood for jokes, not now.

Ming sat next to Sicheng, keeping a steady presence by his side. “She’s tough, Sicheng,” he said quietly. “She’s going to pull through.”

Sicheng nodded, though his heart still clenched with fear every time he looked at the closed door to Tong Yao’s room. “She has to.”

The team fell into a quiet, shared vigil, each of them lost in their own thoughts. They were no strangers to pressure or high-stakes situations, but this was different. This was personal.

Hours passed, and still, there was no update from the doctors. The waiting room had emptied out, leaving only the ZGDX team sitting together in anxious silence.

Sicheng’s phone buzzed, breaking the quiet. It was a text from his mother, **Lu Wang**. She had heard from someone on the board that something had happened and was checking in on him. He hadn’t told his parents about Tong Yao yet—not officially—and he wasn’t ready to deal with that conversation just yet. He silenced the phone and set it aside.

His focus was on one thing: Tong Yao.

---

Finally, just as the clock ticked past midnight, the doctor returned. Sicheng stood up immediately, his heart pounding in his chest as the team gathered around him.

“How is she?” Sicheng asked, his voice tight with fear.

The doctor gave a small, reassuring smile. “She made it through the critical period. She’s stable, and the surgery went well. She’s still unconscious, but we’re optimistic about her recovery.”

The wave of relief that crashed over Sicheng was overwhelming. His knees felt weak, and he had to brace himself against the wall for a moment, his head spinning.

“She’s going to be okay?” Ming asked, his voice full of hope.

The doctor nodded. “It will take time, and she’ll need a lot of rest, but yes. She’s going to be okay.”

Sicheng let out a long breath, his shoulders sagging with relief. He could feel the tears prickling at the corners of his eyes, but he blinked them back, refusing to break down in front of his team.

“Can I see her?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

The doctor nodded. “She’s still unconscious, but you can sit with her.”

Sicheng didn’t waste a second. He turned to his teammates, his eyes filled with gratitude. “Thanks for being here.”

Ming clapped him on the back. “Go. We’ll be here when you come out.”

Sicheng nodded, then followed the doctor down the hallway to Tong Yao’s room.

---

When Sicheng stepped into Tong Yao’s room, the sight of her still lying in the hospital bed hit him just as hard as it had earlier. But

this time, there was a flicker of hope in his chest. She was going to be okay.

He sat down beside her, taking her hand in his and squeezing it gently. Her skin was still cold, but her breathing was steady, and for the first time in hours, Sicheng allowed himself to believe that she would wake up. That she would come back to him.

“I’m right here,” he whispered, leaning down to press a soft kiss to her forehead. “I’m not going anywhere.”

As the machines beeped quietly beside them, Sicheng settled into his chair, determined to stay by her side for as long as it took.

Chapter Text

The days seemed to stretch on endlessly for Lu Sicheng. Every moment was consumed by the wait—waiting for Tong Yao to wake up, for some sign that she would pull through. He never left the hospital, never strayed far from her bedside. The ZGDX team continued to visit, offering their quiet support, but none of them could pull Sicheng away.

It was early afternoon on the fifth day when the moment he had been waiting for finally happened.

Sicheng was sitting beside her bed, her hand in his, when he felt her fingers twitch. His breath caught in his throat, his heart racing as he watched her closely.

"Come on, Tong Yao," he whispered softly, willing her to open her eyes.

For a long moment, nothing happened. But then, slowly, her eyelids fluttered open. She blinked a few times, her eyes unfocused as she struggled to adjust to the light. Her face was pale, her body weak, but she was *awake*.

“Tong Yao?” Sicheng whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.

Her gaze shifted toward him, her brow furrowing in confusion. "Sicheng?" she rasped, her voice barely audible.

He exhaled sharply, his chest tight with relief. “Yeah, it’s me. You’re okay. You’re in the hospital, but you’re going to be okay.”

Tong Yao blinked again, trying to process his words. Her body felt heavy, and there was a dull ache in her head, but as she looked at Sicheng, she felt a warmth that anchored her in the moment. "What... happened?"

"You were in a car accident," Sicheng explained gently, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. "It was bad, but you're safe now."

For a few moments, Tong Yao remained silent, her mind slowly piecing together fragments of memory. The last thing she remembered was driving... and then nothing. But now, here she was, alive—and Sicheng was by her side.

"How long?" she asked, her voice hoarse.

"Five days," he replied quietly. "You’ve been unconscious for five days."

Her eyes widened slightly, but she didn’t say anything. She was too tired, too weak to process everything fully. All that mattered was that she was here, and Sicheng was with her.

---

A few hours after Tong Yao had woken up, the ZGDX team arrived at the hospital. Sicheng had texted Ming earlier to tell him that she had finally woken up, and now, the team was eager to see her. They had spent days worrying about her, and the relief of knowing she was awake was palpable.

As they walked down the hospital corridor, Old Cat carried a small bouquet of flowers, while Pang had a stuffed animal tucked under his arm. They were a ragtag group, not exactly the kind of people you’d expect to see delivering gifts in a hospital, but their hearts were in the right place.

When they reached Tong Yao’s room, Ming knocked softly on the door before poking his head inside. “Hey… can we come in?”

Tong Yao, who was propped up slightly in bed, looked up in surprise. Her eyes widened at the sight of the team standing in the doorway, their faces filled with concern and warmth.

“You guys…” she murmured, her voice still weak but touched by their presence. “What are you doing here?”

“Visiting you, of course,” Pang said with a grin, stepping inside. He handed her the stuffed animal—a small, fluffy bear dressed like a gamer. “Thought this might cheer you up.”

Tong Yao smiled weakly, her heart swelling with affection as she accepted the gift. “Thanks… it’s cute.”

Ming, who had been hanging back, stepped forward and placed a hand on the foot of her bed. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired,” she admitted, her voice still soft. “But better.”

“We’ve all been so worried,” K said, standing beside Ming. “Sicheng’s barely left your side.”

Tong Yao turned her head to look at Sicheng, who was sitting next to her bed, his hand still resting on hers. She squeezed his hand gently, her heart full. “I know,” she whispered. “I’m lucky to have him.”

Old Cat, who was never one to shy away from teasing, cleared his throat. “Well, now that we’re all here… how about a little surprise?”

Tong Yao frowned slightly, confused. “What do you mean?”

Pang grinned and pulled out his phone, scrolling through something before handing it to K. “We’ve been planning a little something for you.”

The rest of the team exchanged knowing smiles as they gathered around the bed, excitement building in the air. Sicheng leaned back in his chair, watching as his teammates prepared to pull off their sweet surprise.

---

It started with K pressing play on Pang’s phone. Soft music began to fill the room—an upbeat, familiar tune from one of their favorite games. Old Cat then pulled a small portable speaker from his bag and set it on the bedside table, amplifying the sound. The music was light, fun, and clearly meant to lift her spirits.

Ming and Pang, always the jokesters, started doing a goofy little dance, waving their arms in exaggerated motions to the rhythm of the song. Old Cat joined in, their movements awkward and ridiculous, but it made Tong Yao smile—really smile—for the first time since she had woken up.

“You guys are ridiculous,” she said, her voice shaky with laughter.

“That’s the idea,” Ming said, twirling dramatically.

As they danced and swayed around the room, K pulled out a small portable gaming console, loaded with their favorite game. “We thought you might be missing out on some practice,” he said with a grin, holding it up for her to see.

Tong Yao laughed softly, shaking her head. “You’re all insane.”

“We’ve gotta keep you sharp, right?” Old Cat teased, twirling in place.

Sicheng, watching the scene unfold with amusement, leaned over and whispered to Tong Yao, “They’ve been planning this since the day you got here.”

She turned her head to look at him, her eyes shining with gratitude. “I don’t deserve this.”

Sicheng smiled, brushing his thumb gently over her hand. “You deserve everything.”

As the team continued their goofy performance, Ming turned the music up slightly, the energy in the room lifting with each passing moment. For a little while, the sterile hospital walls faded away, replaced by the warmth and laughter of her teammates, her family.

Tong Yao felt her heart swell with affection for them. These were the people who had stood by her, who had been there when she needed them the most. And now, in the middle of a hospital room, they were doing everything they could to make her smile.

When the music finally ended, the team collapsed in exaggerated exhaustion, laughing as they caught their breath.

“That’s enough exercise for the year,” Pang joked, flopping onto the chair beside her bed.

“You guys are unbelievable,” Tong Yao said, shaking her head. “But thank you.”

“You needed it,” Ming said with a smile. “And we needed to see you smile again.”

Tong Yao glanced around the room, her heart full. She had never felt more grateful in her life—for Sicheng, for the team, for everything. They had been her support system through everything, and even though she was still weak, still recovering, she knew that she would get through this with them by her side.

---

After the team had finished their impromptu performance, they settled around the room, chatting quietly and keeping the mood light. The hospital didn’t feel so cold anymore, not with the warmth of their laughter and camaraderie filling the space.

As the evening wore on, the nurses gently reminded the team that visiting hours would soon be over. One by one, they said their goodbyes, each of them leaving her with a promise to return the next day.

When they were finally alone, Tong Yao turned to Sicheng, her eyes filled with emotion. “They did all this for me.”

“They care about you,” Sicheng said softly, his fingers brushing lightly against her hand. “We all do.”

Tears filled her eyes, but this time, they weren’t tears of sadness or fear. They were tears of gratitude, of love. “Thank you… for staying. For everything.”

“I told you,” Sicheng said with a gentle smile. “I’m not going anywhere.”

She squeezed his hand, her heart full. “I love you.”

Sicheng’s smile deepened, and he leaned down to press a soft kiss to her forehead. “I love you too.”

And in that quiet moment, with the warmth of his love and the support of her team surrounding her, Tong Yao knew that no matter how long it took, she would be okay.

Chapter Text

The hospital had quieted down for the night, and the soft hum of machines and dim lights created a calm atmosphere around Tong Yao’s room. She was resting peacefully now, her hand still in Lu Sicheng’s as she slept, her breathing steady and even. After days of worry, seeing her like this—awake, alive—felt like a miracle.

But Sicheng couldn’t sleep. He sat there in the chair beside her bed, watching the rise and fall of her chest, his thoughts spiraling. The last few days had shaken him to his core. The fear of losing her had left a permanent scar, a constant reminder of how fragile life could be. It wasn’t something he had ever thought about before—not with the same urgency.

Now, though, the reality of it hit him hard.

This accident had forced him to see the future he wanted more clearly than ever. He loved Tong Yao. That was something he had known for a long time, but now the thought of waiting, of letting things unfold slowly, felt wrong. He didn’t want to wait for the “right” time anymore. He wanted her in his life, permanently, as his partner, not just in secret, but fully—unapologetically.

She stirred slightly in her sleep, her hand shifting in his. Sicheng looked down at her, his heart swelling with affection. He had almost lost her, and that thought terrified him. He couldn’t risk letting any more time slip away.

With a quiet sigh, he stood up, careful not to disturb her. He leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, whispering, “I’ll be back.”

Sicheng slipped out of the hospital room, his footsteps quiet as he made his way down the empty hallway. His mind was already made up. He needed to take the next step, and there was only one place he could go tonight.

---

Sicheng drove through the quiet city streets, his hands gripping the steering wheel as his thoughts swirled. He knew exactly what he wanted to do, and there was no doubt in his mind that this was the right decision.

He loved Tong Yao, and the accident had made him realize that life was too unpredictable to wait for the perfect moment. He wanted her by his side, always. He wanted to build a future with her, and the next step in that future was crystal clear.

Sicheng parked the car in front of a small, high-end jewelry store he had researched earlier that week. It wasn’t something he had done with immediate intent, but the idea had been lingering in the back of his mind ever since the accident. He had always imagined asking Tong Yao to marry him someday, but now, that “someday” felt like *now*.

The soft glow of the streetlights illuminated the storefront, casting a warm light over the elegant displays in the window. Sicheng took a deep breath as he stepped out of the car, his heart pounding in his chest.

This was it. This was the moment that would change everything.

---

The store had just closed, but Sicheng had called ahead, and the owner, an older man with silver hair and kind eyes, had agreed to stay open for him. When Sicheng stepped inside, the soft chime of the doorbell echoed through the quiet store. The atmosphere was calm, intimate, and exactly what he needed.

The owner greeted him with a warm smile. “Mr. Lu, I’m glad you could make it. You mentioned that this is an important decision?”

Sicheng nodded, his hands still tucked into the pockets of his jacket. “Yes, it is. I’m looking for a ring.”

“A special one, I presume?”

“Very special,” Sicheng said, his voice soft but filled with certainty. “For someone I don’t want to lose.”

The owner’s expression softened, and he nodded in understanding. “I think I have just what you’re looking for. Please, follow me.”

He led Sicheng to a small display case toward the back of the store, where a selection of rings was arranged under the soft glow of the lights. Each one was unique, elegant, and stunning in its own way. The owner carefully unlocked the case and gestured to the display. “Take your time.”

Sicheng stood there for a moment, his eyes scanning the rings. Each one seemed perfect in its own way, but none of them were quite right for Tong Yao—none of them fully captured who she was. He needed something special, something that reflected her strength, her beauty, her intelligence.

Then, his eyes landed on one.

It was simple yet elegant—a platinum band with a solitaire diamond that sparkled subtly under the light. It wasn’t flashy or overly ornate, but it had a timeless quality, something that spoke of quiet strength. The moment he saw it, he knew it was the one.

“That one,” he said, pointing to the ring.

The owner smiled, carefully lifting the ring from the case. “Excellent choice. It’s a classic design—beautiful, but not overwhelming. It suits someone with a refined and elegant presence.”

Sicheng nodded, taking the ring in his hand. It was perfect. It was everything he wanted for her—something that would remind her every day how much she meant to him, and how deeply he loved her.

“I’ll take it,” Sicheng said, his voice firm.

The owner smiled warmly as he packaged the ring. “I hope it brings her as much joy as she clearly brings you.”

Sicheng couldn’t help but smile softly at that. “She already does.”

---

As Sicheng drove back to the hospital, the small box with the ring tucked safely in his pocket, his heart felt lighter. He was nervous, of course—this was a huge step—but it was the right step. He knew it with every fiber of his being.

The streets were quiet as the city slept, and the soft hum of the car engine was the only sound that filled the silence. His thoughts wandered to how he would ask her, how he would find the perfect moment. It didn’t have to be grand or elaborate. Tong Yao wasn’t one for big gestures. But it had to be *them*—something real, something meaningful.

He had no idea how long her recovery would take, but that didn’t matter. He would be with her through every step, supporting her, loving her. And when the time was right, he would ask her to marry him.

He didn’t need the perfect plan. All he needed was her.

---

When Sicheng returned to the hospital, Tong Yao was still asleep, her body resting and healing. He slipped quietly into the room, careful not to wake her as he settled back into the chair beside her bed.

The small box with the ring was still in his pocket, a quiet reminder of what he had just done. He wasn’t sure when he would give it to her—whether it would be in the next few days, or weeks, or even months—but knowing that he had taken that step made him feel more certain than ever about their future.

Sicheng gently took her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “You scared me,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “But you’re still here. And that’s all that matters.”

She didn’t stir, but her fingers twitched slightly in response. A small smile tugged at the corner of Sicheng’s lips as he leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to her hand.

“I’m going to make sure you know how much I love you,” he whispered. “Every single day.”

And as he sat there, the ring resting in his pocket, Sicheng knew that the future he wanted—the future with her—was finally within reach.

Chapter Text

The days passed slowly after Tong Yao woke up, each one a small step toward recovery. She was growing stronger, though the fatigue still lingered, and the aches from her injuries made simple movements difficult. But the worst was over, and with each passing day, the hospital room felt a little less like a place of fear and more like a place of healing.

Sicheng had barely left her side. He had been there for every doctor’s check-up, every physical therapy session, and every quiet moment in between. He was her constant—steady, unwavering, and always watching over her with a protective gaze that made her heart swell with affection.

But there was something different about him lately, something she couldn’t quite put her finger on. He seemed more focused, more determined, as if something was weighing heavily on his mind. Tong Yao noticed the small box he kept tucked away in his jacket pocket, and though he never mentioned it, she had caught him absentmindedly touching it more than once.

She didn’t ask, though. Whatever it was, she knew he would tell her when the time was right.

---

It was a quiet evening when Sicheng finally made his decision. The sun was setting outside the hospital window, casting a soft, golden light over the room. Tong Yao was resting, sitting up slightly in her bed, flipping through one of the magazines that Ming had brought her during one of his visits.

Sicheng sat beside her, watching her with a calm expression, though his heart was racing. He had thought about how he would do this, about the perfect way to ask her, but in the end, he knew that there was no need for grand gestures or elaborate plans. This moment, right here—just the two of them—was perfect.

“Tong Yao,” he said softly, his voice drawing her attention.

She looked up from her magazine, her eyes warm. “Hmm?”

Sicheng took a deep breath, his hand slipping into his pocket to retrieve the small box. He held it in his palm, the weight of it feeling significant in ways he hadn’t anticipated. Tong Yao’s gaze flickered to the box, her brows knitting together in confusion.

“What’s that?” she asked, her voice quiet but curious.

Sicheng’s heart pounded in his chest as he turned the box over in his hands, his fingers brushing the smooth surface. “It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while,” he said softly, his eyes locking onto hers. “Something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.”

Tong Yao’s breath caught in her throat as she stared at him, her mind already piecing together what was happening. Her heart began to race, her hands trembling slightly as she set the magazine aside.

Sicheng shifted in his chair, leaning forward as he took her hand in his, his thumb brushing gently over her knuckles. “I almost lost you,” he said, his voice low and thick with emotion. “That accident… it made me realize that I don’t want to waste any more time.”

Her eyes softened, and her lips parted as she tried to find the right words. But Sicheng wasn’t finished.

“I love you,” he said, his voice steady. “I’ve loved you for a long time, Tong Yao. And after everything that’s happened, I don’t want to keep waiting for the perfect moment, or for the right time. I don’t want to wait any longer to start our future together.”

Tears welled up in Tong Yao’s eyes as she listened to him, her heart swelling with emotion. The warmth in his voice, the sincerity in his gaze—it was overwhelming. She had known for a long time that she loved him, too, but hearing him say these words, in this moment, was something she hadn’t been prepared for.

Sicheng took a deep breath and opened the small box, revealing the ring inside. It sparkled softly in the dim light of the room, the simple, elegant design reflecting everything he loved about her—strong, beautiful, and timeless.

“I want to spend the rest of my life with you,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t care how long it takes for you to recover. I don’t care about anything else but being with you.”

He held the ring up, his eyes never leaving hers. “Will you marry me, Tong Yao?”

---

For a moment, Tong Yao was completely speechless. The room felt still, as if time itself had paused to give her a chance to process everything. Her heart raced, her mind spinning with the weight of his words. She had never imagined that this moment would come so soon, especially after everything that had happened. But now, sitting here with him, seeing the love and certainty in his eyes, she knew exactly what her answer was.

Tears spilled down her cheeks as she nodded, her voice trembling with emotion. “Yes,” she whispered, her hand shaking as she reached out for him. “Yes, Sicheng. I’ll marry you.”

Sicheng’s heart soared at her words, a wide smile spreading across his face. He slipped the ring onto her finger, his hands steady despite the rush of emotion flooding through him. The ring fit perfectly, as if it had always been meant for her.

Tong Yao stared at the ring on her finger, her tears still falling as she let out a soft laugh. “I can’t believe this,” she said, her voice full of wonder. “I can’t believe you actually did this.”

Sicheng leaned in, brushing a tear from her cheek with his thumb. “I didn’t want to wait,” he said, his voice gentle. “I didn’t want to risk losing you again.”

Tong Yao looked up at him, her eyes shining with love. “You won’t lose me,” she said, her voice firm but soft. “I’m not going anywhere.”

Sicheng smiled, his hand cupping her cheek as he leaned down and pressed his lips to hers in a tender, lingering kiss. It was soft, full of love, and the promise of everything they would face together in the future.

When they pulled back, Tong Yao rested her forehead against his, her heart still racing. “I love you,” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too,” Sicheng replied, his hand still resting on her cheek. “More than you’ll ever know.”

---

The next few moments were filled with quiet laughter and soft whispers, as the weight of the proposal settled in for both of them. Tong Yao couldn’t stop looking at the ring, her heart swelling with each passing second. It wasn’t just a symbol of their love—it was a promise, a commitment to the future they would build together.

“I didn’t think I’d be getting engaged in a hospital room,” Tong Yao said with a soft laugh, wiping away the last of her tears.

Sicheng grinned, his hand still holding hers. “Hey, it’s not about the place. It’s about the moment. And this felt like the right one.”

She smiled, her heart full. “It’s perfect.”

They sat there for a while longer, just enjoying the quiet, the calm that had settled over them. It didn’t matter that they were in a hospital, or that Tong Yao was still recovering from her injuries. What mattered was that they were together, and that they had a future waiting for them.

“I can’t wait to marry you,” Sicheng whispered, his thumb brushing over her ring finger.

Tong Yao looked up at him, her eyes soft and full of love. “I can’t wait either.”

And as the night deepened around them, they both knew that this was just the beginning of their life together. The accident had been a painful reminder of how precious life was, but it had also brought them closer, making them realize that the future they wanted couldn’t wait.

They had each other. And that was all they needed.

Chapter Text

The next morning, the hospital room felt a little lighter, a little warmer. Tong Yao’s hand rested in Lu Sicheng’s, the weight of the engagement ring a constant reminder of the life-changing moment they had shared the night before. It felt surreal—exciting, but also calming in a way she hadn’t expected.

They were engaged. They were going to spend the rest of their lives together, and despite everything—the accident, the recovery, the secrecy—it felt right. Perfect, even.

Sicheng had barely taken his eyes off her all morning, his gaze soft, filled with love. They had talked about telling the team and his parents, and although Tong Yao was nervous, she knew it was time to share their news.

“Are you ready for this?” Sicheng asked, his thumb brushing over the back of her hand as they waited.

Tong Yao smiled, a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling up inside her. “I think so.”

---

The ZGDX team had been coming by the hospital regularly to visit Tong Yao and check on her recovery, but today was different. Today, they were about to find out something that would change everything.

When Ming, Old Cat, K, and Pang arrived, they walked into the room with their usual banter and teasing, but there was an air of curiosity as well. They had sensed something between Sicheng and Tong Yao for a while, but none of them had expected what was coming.

Ming was the first to speak up, leaning against the doorframe with a grin. “You guys seem extra happy today. Did something happen?”

Tong Yao glanced at Sicheng, her heart pounding as they exchanged a knowing look. She felt the nerves building up, but Sicheng gave her a reassuring smile, silently telling her that it was okay—that this was the moment.

He turned to the team, his hand still holding Tong Yao’s. “Actually, something *did* happen.”

Old Cat raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “Oh? What’s going on?”

Sicheng’s lips curved into a small smile as he lifted Tong Yao’s hand, showing the engagement ring resting on her finger. “We’re engaged.”

The room went silent for a moment, the weight of the news sinking in. The team stared, wide-eyed and speechless, as they processed what they had just heard.

“Engaged?!” Pang exclaimed, his voice loud enough to make Tong Yao laugh. “Like… *marriage* engaged?”

Sicheng nodded, his smile widening. “Yeah. Marriage engaged.”

Ming let out a low whistle, shaking his head in disbelief. “Damn, Sicheng. You don’t waste any time, do you?”

K, still staring at the ring on Tong Yao’s finger, chuckled softly. “I should’ve seen this coming. You’ve been acting different for a while now.”

Old Cat crossed his arms, a teasing grin spreading across his face. “You’re telling me you kept this secret from us all this time, and now you’re just casually dropping that you’re engaged?”

Tong Yao laughed, her cheeks flushing with warmth. “We didn’t plan to keep it a secret for this long. It just… happened.”

Ming, always the sentimental one, stepped forward and pulled Tong Yao into a gentle hug, careful not to jostle her too much. “I’m happy for you, Yao Yao,” he said, his voice full of genuine warmth. “You deserve this.”

When he pulled back, he turned to Sicheng, clapping a hand on his shoulder. “And you—congratulations, man. You’ve got a good one.”

Sicheng smiled, his hand still wrapped around Tong Yao’s. “I know.”

The rest of the team followed suit, offering their congratulations, hugs, and teasing remarks about how Sicheng was now officially “off the market.” The atmosphere in the room was filled with warmth and laughter, the joy of the moment settling in for all of them.

As the team shared stories, jokes, and their well-wishes, Tong Yao couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the love and support that surrounded them. She had been nervous about sharing the news, but now that it was out in the open, it felt right. These were the people who had been there for them through everything, and now they were celebrating this next chapter of their lives together.

---

Later that afternoon, after the team had left, the hospital room was once again filled with a different kind of nervous energy. This time, it was Sicheng’s parents, Lu Wang and Lu Yuchen, who were coming to visit. Tong Yao had met them before in passing, but this was different. Today, they were going to tell them about the engagement.

Sicheng could feel the tension in the air as they waited. He knew his parents would be supportive—especially his mother, who had always been a strong presence in his life—but there was still a weight to the moment. Sharing the news with them made everything feel even more real.

When his parents arrived, they walked into the room with their usual elegance and poise. **Lu Wang** greeted them with a warm smile, while **Lu Yuchen** gave Tong Yao a nod of approval, his expression kind but thoughtful.

“Sicheng, Tong Yao,” Lu Wang said as she stepped closer, her eyes scanning over Tong Yao, clearly assessing her recovery. “You’re looking much better, Tong Yao. We’re relieved to see you recovering so well.”

“Thank you,” Tong Yao said, her voice soft but steady. “I’m feeling stronger every day.”

Lu Yuchen glanced at his son, his brows knitting together slightly. “You’ve been very quiet, Sicheng. Is everything all right?”

Sicheng shifted in his chair, his hand still wrapped around Tong Yao’s. He took a deep breath before looking at his parents, the weight of the moment settling over him. “Actually, we have something to tell you.”

Lu Wang’s eyes narrowed slightly, curiosity flickering across her face. “Oh? What is it?”

Sicheng exchanged a glance with Tong Yao, and she nodded, giving him the silent encouragement he needed. He turned back to his parents, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “We’re engaged.”

For a moment, there was silence. His parents stood there, processing the news, their expressions unreadable. Tong Yao’s heart pounded in her chest, the nervousness building as she waited for their reaction.

And then, slowly, a smile spread across Lu Wang’s face. It was a rare, genuine smile—one that softened her usually composed features. “Engaged?” she repeated, her voice full of warmth. “Well, that is quite the surprise.”

Lu Yuchen, ever the more reserved one, nodded in approval. “You’ve always known what you wanted, Sicheng,” he said quietly. “And if this is what makes you happy, then we’re happy for you.”

The relief that washed over Tong Yao was overwhelming. She hadn’t known what to expect, but seeing the warmth in their eyes, the genuine happiness for their son and for her, made her heart swell with gratitude.

Lu Wang stepped closer, taking Tong Yao’s hand in hers. “Welcome to the family,” she said softly, her voice filled with sincerity. “We’re very happy for both of you.”

Tong Yao smiled, tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. “Thank you. It means so much to me.”

Sicheng watched the interaction between his mother and Tong Yao, his heart full. This was what he had wanted—to bring the two parts of his life together, to have the people he loved most celebrate with them as they prepared to start their future.

Lu Wang turned to Sicheng, a playful glint in her eyes. “I have to say, Sicheng, I didn’t expect you to move so quickly. But I suppose when you know, you know.”

Sicheng chuckled softly, his arm slipping around Tong Yao’s shoulders. “Yeah. When you know, you know.”

The rest of the visit was filled with light conversation, well wishes, and quiet moments of reflection. Sicheng’s parents were supportive and kind, and as they sat together in the hospital room, it felt like a family—a new chapter for all of them, with Tong Yao now officially a part of it.

---

As the evening grew darker and the hospital room grew quieter, Tong Yao and Sicheng sat together, their hearts full. The weight of the day—the joy of sharing their news, the love and support from both the team and Sicheng’s parents—was overwhelming in the best way possible.

“We did it,” Tong Yao whispered, her head resting on Sicheng’s shoulder. “We told them.”

Sicheng smiled, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Yeah. And now, we don’t have to keep it a secret anymore.”

Tong Yao smiled softly, her hand resting on his. “I can’t wait to start our life together.”

Sicheng looked down at her, his eyes filled with love and certainty. “Me neither.”

And as the night settled around them, they both knew that their future—filled with love, laughter, and the support of those they cared about—was finally set in stone.

Chapter Text

As the day of Tong Yao’s release from the hospital approached, Sicheng found himself more worried than ever. On one hand, he knew Tong Yao needed to recover in a place where she could rest fully and peacefully. But the thought of her alone in her apartment, away from him and the support she’d need, made him uneasy. He couldn’t imagine splitting his time between her apartment and the base, juggling both her care and his commitments to ZGDX.

One afternoon, as the team gathered in the common area for a meeting, Sicheng found himself drifting into silence, his mind occupied with worry.

Ming nudged him, noticing his distracted expression. “Hey, Sicheng, what’s up? You’re a million miles away.”

Sicheng sighed, running a hand through his hair. “It’s… Tong Yao. She’s getting discharged soon, but I don’t know how I’m going to manage everything. She wants to go back to her apartment, but I can’t just leave her there alone. And even if I try to split my time, it won’t be enough. I don’t know how I’m going to take care of her and still be here for the team.”

The team fell silent, exchanging glances as they took in his concern. They all knew how much Tong Yao meant to him, and the idea of him trying to be in two places at once seemed impossible.

Xiao Rui, ever the practical manager, spoke up, a thoughtful look on his face. “You know, Sicheng… there’s a simple solution to this.”

Sicheng looked at him, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “What’s that?”

Xiao Rui shrugged. “Bring her here. Have her recover at the base. She’d be surrounded by people who can help, and you wouldn’t have to choose between her and the team. Plus, we’d be glad to pitch in and make her feel at home.”

The team nodded in agreement, Ming speaking up next. “Yeah, why not? She’s practically one of us anyway. And if she’s here, you can keep an eye on her while still keeping up with practice.”

Old Cat grinned, leaning back in his chair. “Not a bad idea. And besides, we’ve got space. We can set up your room to make it comfortable for her recovery.”

Sicheng considered it, his gaze softening as he thought about how much easier it would be if Tong Yao were at the base, where he could be there for her without sacrificing his responsibilities to the team. He could see her resting, surrounded by people who would welcome her, making sure she had everything she needed.

“Are you all sure?” he asked, his tone grateful but cautious. “It’s a lot to ask.”

Ming waved a hand dismissively. “Of course we’re sure. You love her, and she’s family to us too now. Anything she needs, we’ll handle it. Plus, it’s the least we can do to help out.”

Pang nodded, his grin wide. “Let’s give your room a little makeover then. I think it could use some warmth anyway.”

---

Within minutes, the team was buzzing with excitement, throwing out ideas on how to transform Sicheng’s room into a comfortable, homey space for Tong Yao’s recovery. Ming, always the planner, whipped out his phone to start a list of items they’d need, while Old Cat and K offered suggestions on how to make the room both cozy and functional.

“First things first,” Ming began, “we need to set up a place for her to work. She’ll want to keep working on her thesis, right? Let’s get a desk by the window.”

Pang grinned. “Good idea. She can work with some sunlight coming in, and she’ll have a view too. Plus, we should get a comfy chair—she’s going to need something soft.”

Old Cat nodded, his voice thoughtful. “What about her gaming setup? She’ll want a proper station for that too. We could move in a monitor and a keyboard, make sure it’s fully equipped so she can play whenever she feels up to it.”

K joined in, pulling up his phone to look for additional furniture. “We can add a few things to make it cozy—pillows, blankets, maybe some plants. It needs to feel like her own space.”

As they brainstormed, Xiao Rui nodded approvingly. “Let’s also add a mini fridge with her favorite drinks and snacks. That way, she won’t have to leave the room if she’s not feeling up to it.”

Ming grinned, jotting down the idea. “Perfect. We’ll stock it with everything she likes—tea, water, maybe a few treats too.”

With a plan in place, the team wasted no time getting everything ready. They rearranged Sicheng’s room, making space for the new additions while still keeping it functional. A simple desk was placed near the window, complete with a comfortable chair and a stack of notebooks for her thesis work. Next to it, they set up a small gaming station with a monitor, keyboard, and headset, giving her the perfect setup for her recovery.

Old Cat added some soft pillows and a plush blanket to the bed, while K brought in a couple of potted plants, setting them on the windowsill to bring a touch of nature to the space. The final touch was a small frame with a picture of the team, taken at one of their recent matches, which Xiao Rui placed on the desk.

By the time they finished, Sicheng’s room looked completely transformed. The once utilitarian space was now warm, inviting, and uniquely hers—a place where she could rest, recover, and feel at home.

---

Later that evening, as Sicheng returned from the hospital, the team gathered around him, eager to reveal their hard work.

Ming grinned, nudging him toward the hallway. “All right, captain. We’ve got a little surprise for you.”

Sicheng raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering across his face. “What did you all do?”

Old Cat led the way, opening the door to Sicheng’s room and gesturing for him to step inside. The moment Sicheng saw the transformation, his expression softened with gratitude and awe. Gone were the stark, functional lines of his room—now, it was a cozy retreat, designed with Tong Yao’s comfort in mind.

“You guys… really did all this?” he asked, his voice thick with emotion as he looked around the room.

K shrugged, a small smile on his face. “Of course we did. You’re worried about her, and this way, she can be here with us. We’ll all take care of her, Sicheng.”

Ming grinned, crossing his arms. “Plus, she’ll have a comfortable place to work on her thesis and play a few games. She’s basically one of us now, and we want her to feel at home.”

Xiao Rui stepped forward, nodding. “It’s the best of both worlds. You can focus on practices and matches without worrying about splitting your time, and she’ll have a safe, comfortable place to recover.”

Sicheng felt a wave of gratitude wash over him. The thought and effort his teammates had put into making the room perfect for Tong Yao meant more than he could express. They hadn’t just helped him—they’d supported her in a way that made her truly feel like part of the team.

“Thank you,” he said, his voice soft but filled with sincerity. “She’ll love it. This means everything to us.”

Old Cat clapped him on the shoulder, grinning. “Then bring her here. We’ll make sure she’s taken care of, just like family.”

---

The next day, Sicheng picked up Tong Yao from the hospital, keeping the team’s surprise to himself. As they drove, Tong Yao looked out the window, her expression thoughtful.

After the whirlwind of media attention, the constant buzzing of rumors, and the steady stream of well-wishers, all Tong Yao wanted was some peace and quiet. She had spent days in the hospital recovering from the accident, and now, the doctors had finally given her the green light to be discharged.

But something was off.

As the car pulled up in front of the ZGDX base instead of her apartment, Tong Yao frowned, glancing at Lu Sicheng, who sat beside her. This wasn’t where she expected to be. Her heart raced with confusion.

“Wait, why are we here?” she asked, turning to Sicheng. “I thought I was going home—to my apartment.”

Sicheng met her gaze, his expression calm but serious. “We thought it would be better if you stayed at the base for a while.”

Tong Yao blinked, completely taken aback. “At the base? But… I’ve never been here before. Why not just take me to my apartment?”

Sicheng sighed, his hand resting gently on her knee. “Because you need someone to monitor your health and recovery. We can’t risk you being alone, especially after everything you’ve been through. At the base, the team and I can take care of you. Make sure you’re okay.”

Tong Yao felt a mix of emotions—relief, anxiety, and even a hint of curiosity. She’d heard about the ZGDX base from Sicheng, but she’d never actually set foot inside. The idea of recovering there, in unfamiliar territory, made her nervous. But at the same time, she understood what Sicheng was saying. Being alone in her apartment would be too risky.

“I… I guess that makes sense,” she said slowly, her voice tinged with uncertainty. “But are you sure? I don’t want to impose on everyone.”

“You won’t be imposing,” Sicheng replied firmly. “We want you here. And I want to be able to keep an eye on you. The team’s already prepared everything.”

Tong Yao bit her lip, glancing out the car window at the imposing building in front of them. It felt strange, being brought here, into Sicheng’s world. But the concern in his voice, the seriousness in his expression, made her realize that he had thought this through carefully. He wasn’t going to take any chances with her recovery.

“Okay,” she said quietly, her heart calming as she turned to face him again. “I trust you.”

Sicheng smiled softly, his hand squeezing hers. “Good. You’re in the best hands.”

---

As soon as they stepped out of the car, the ZGDX base loomed large in front of them. Tong Yao could feel her nerves prickling at the edges as she followed Sicheng inside. She had always imagined what the base might look like—having heard stories about it from Sicheng and the team—but actually walking through the doors was different. It felt like stepping into a new world, one that was more competitive, focused, and intense than anything she’d ever experienced before.

The inside of the base was sleek, modern, and surprisingly homey. The walls were lined with gaming posters, championship trophies, and framed pictures of the team’s various victories over the years. It was the kind of place that exuded confidence, a place where people worked hard and won hard.

But now, it was also the place where Tong Yao would recover.

As she and Sicheng made their way through the hallways, they were greeted by the team—Ming, Old Cat, K, and Pang—all waiting for them with wide grins.

“There she is!” Ming said, stepping forward with a warm smile. “Welcome to the base, Tong Yao.”

Old Cat nodded, his arms crossed but his expression kind. “We figured this would be a better place for you to rest. We can all keep an eye on you, make sure you don’t overdo it.”

Tong Yao offered a small smile, still feeling a bit out of place. “Thanks, guys. I appreciate it. I just… wasn’t expecting this.”

“We wanted it to be a surprise,” K added with a grin. “Plus, we have something special for you.”

Pang, who was practically bouncing with excitement, waved her toward the hallway. “Come on, you’re gonna love it!”

Tong Yao glanced at Sicheng, who gave her an encouraging nod. Despite the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside her, she followed the team down the hallway, curious about what they had prepared.

As they reached the end of the hallway, Tong Yao noticed they were heading toward what she assumed was Sicheng’s room. She was about to ask why when Old Cat stepped forward, dramatically opening the door with a flourish.

“Ta-da! Welcome to your recovery suite!”

Tong Yao stepped inside, her eyes widening in surprise. Sicheng’s room, which she imagined had been minimalistic and practical before, had been completely transformed. It was now a warm, cozy space that felt like a true retreat.

The walls had been decorated with calming colors and soft tapestries. Fairy lights were strung along the ceiling, casting a warm, ambient glow throughout the room. The bed was covered with an inviting, plush comforter, layered with pillows and blankets in soothing shades. In the corner of the room was a small bookshelf stocked with books and games, and on the nightstand sat a tray of her favorite snacks.

The team had gone above and beyond to create a peaceful, healing environment for her.

“I… I don’t know what to say,” Tong Yao whispered, her voice thick with emotion. “This is… incredible.”

“You deserve it,” Ming said with a grin. “We wanted to make sure you felt comfortable while you’re here.”

Pang stepped forward with a playful grin. “And, let’s be real, Sicheng’s room needed some life.”

Sicheng rolled his eyes but smiled. “You’re not wrong.”

Tong Yao laughed softly, her heart swelling with gratitude. The thoughtfulness behind the transformation was overwhelming. This wasn’t just a room anymore—it was her space, a place where she could recover and heal, surrounded by people who cared about her.

“You guys did all this for me?” she asked, turning to face the team.

Old Cat shrugged, trying to play it cool. “It wasn’t a big deal.”

K smiled, crossing his arms. “We just wanted you to feel at home.”

Sicheng, who had been quietly watching the exchange, stepped forward and gently took her hand. “You’re not alone in this, Yao Yao. We’re all here for you.”

Tong Yao’s heart swelled at his words, and tears pricked at the corners of her eyes. The accident had shaken her to her core, but standing here, in this room filled with warmth and care, she felt safe—safe to heal, safe to be vulnerable, and safe to start thinking about the future again.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her voice full of emotion. “Thank you, all of you.”

---

After the team left the room to give her some space to settle in, Tong Yao sat on the edge of the bed, her fingers running over the soft comforter. The whole room felt surreal, like something out of a dream. She had never expected this level of care, this level of thoughtfulness from people who had once been strangers but now felt like family.

Sicheng sat down beside her, his hand resting on hers. “How are you feeling?”

Tong Yao leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder. “Better. This is… more than I ever expected.”

He smiled, pressing a soft kiss to her temple. “You deserve it. And you deserve to have people around who care about you while you recover.”

She turned her head slightly to look at him, her eyes full of gratitude. “I feel like I’m really a part of this now… of your life, your world.”

Sicheng’s smile deepened, his eyes soft. “You always were. Now, it’s just official.”

Tong Yao smiled, her heart full. “I’m lucky to have you.”

“And I’m lucky to have you,” Sicheng whispered, leaning down to kiss her gently.

As they settled into the newly transformed room, surrounded by the warmth and love of their teammates, Tong Yao realized that this was exactly where she needed to be. The accident had changed everything, but it had also brought them closer, creating a bond that couldn’t be broken.

She wasn’t just recovering from an accident. She was healing, surrounded by love, and building a future she had never imagined for herself.

Chapter Text

The sterile smell of the clinic filled the air as Tong Yao sat quietly in the waiting room, her hand nestled in Lu Sicheng’s. She hadn’t been here since being discharged from the hospital, and though the doctors had reassured her that everything was progressing well, this follow-up appointment weighed on her mind.

The accident had been more than just physically painful—it had shaken her to the core. She still remembered the screeching tires, the impact, the sudden darkness that followed. But the moments after waking up in the hospital, finding Sicheng by her side, and hearing the doctor’s vague explanations were a blur. Now, she needed clarity. She needed to know the full scope of her injuries and how long her recovery would take.

Sicheng squeezed her hand gently, pulling her out of her thoughts. “You okay?”

Tong Yao glanced at him, giving him a small smile. “Yeah. I just… want to know everything. I feel like I haven’t really understood what happened to me yet.”

Sicheng nodded, his gaze soft but serious. “We’ll get the answers today. And whatever they say, we’ll handle it. Together.”

Tong Yao took a deep breath, steadying herself. She knew Sicheng was right, but the weight of not knowing still pressed heavily on her chest.

---

After a few minutes, they were called into the examination room. Tong Yao’s doctor, a middle-aged man with kind eyes, greeted them with a warm smile.

“Tong Yao, Lu Sicheng—good to see you both,” the doctor said, motioning for them to sit. “I know you’ve been waiting for a more detailed explanation, so let’s go over everything that happened and what to expect going forward.”

Tong Yao nodded, her heart pounding in her chest as she sat down. Sicheng settled beside her, his hand resting protectively on her shoulder.

The doctor pulled out her file, flipping through it as he spoke. “As you know, you were in a serious car accident. You were hit on the driver’s side, which caused most of the impact to be absorbed by your left side. When you arrived at the hospital, you had multiple injuries that required immediate attention.”

He paused, his expression becoming more serious. “You suffered a fractured rib, a dislocated shoulder, and a moderate concussion. You also had internal bruising, which we monitored closely in the ICU. Thankfully, you responded well to treatment, and the bruising didn’t worsen. But the biggest concern was the head injury. While your concussion was moderate, there was a risk of swelling in the brain, which is why we kept you under observation for several days.”

Tong Yao swallowed hard, her mind racing as she processed the information. She had known it was bad, but hearing it laid out so clearly made her realize just how serious the accident had been.

“How… how close was I to…” Her voice trailed off, but the question hung in the air.

The doctor met her gaze, his expression gentle. “You were in critical condition for the first 48 hours. It could have gone either way, but your body responded well to treatment. You’re very lucky, Tong Yao.”

Sicheng’s grip on her shoulder tightened, and she felt his silent strength beside her, anchoring her to the present. She glanced at him, seeing the fear he had been hiding behind his calm demeanor. He had known how close it had been, and he hadn’t left her side for a moment.

“And now?” Sicheng asked, his voice steady but tinged with tension. “What’s her recovery going to look like?”

The doctor nodded, flipping to the next page of the file. “The good news is that she’s made excellent progress so far. The rib has healed well, and the dislocated shoulder was reset without complications. You’ll continue to experience some pain and stiffness in that area, but with physical therapy, we expect full mobility to return within a few months.”

Tong Yao exhaled, feeling a sense of relief. It was a long road, but she could handle that. As long as there was a path forward.

“And her head injury?” Sicheng pressed, clearly still concerned about the concussion.

The doctor’s expression became more serious again. “The concussion will require more careful management. You may experience headaches, dizziness, and fatigue for the next few months. It’s important that you avoid overstimulation—no long hours in front of screens, no heavy physical exertion, and no stressful activities.”

He glanced at Tong Yao, his voice firm but understanding. “I know you’re a gamer, and I know how important that world is to you, but it’s crucial that you take things slow. Returning to esports too quickly could delay your recovery, and we don’t want to risk any setbacks.”

Tong Yao’s heart sank. She had expected some restrictions, but hearing that her return to gaming would be delayed was difficult to accept. She loved the game, loved being a part of that world, and the idea of stepping away from it—even temporarily—felt like losing a part of herself.

“I understand,” she said quietly, though her voice was strained.

Sicheng, sensing her inner struggle, leaned closer, his voice low and soothing. “You’ll get back to it when you’re ready, Yao Yao. There’s no rush. You just need to heal first.”

She nodded, knowing he was right, but it didn’t make it any easier.

---

The doctor continued outlining the next steps in Tong Yao’s recovery. She would need regular physical therapy sessions for her shoulder, starting light and increasing in intensity as her mobility improved. As for her concussion, she would have to follow a strict regimen of rest, hydration, and cognitive exercises to help her brain heal.

“You’ll need to listen to your body carefully,” the doctor said, his tone serious. “If you push yourself too hard, the symptoms will worsen. Fatigue and headaches are your body’s way of telling you to slow down. Don’t ignore them.”

Tong Yao nodded, absorbing everything. It wasn’t going to be easy, but she was determined to make a full recovery.

“How long until she’s back to normal?” Sicheng asked, his protective nature shining through.

The doctor smiled softly. “Everyone heals at their own pace, but I would estimate around six months for a full recovery. That includes regaining strength, managing the concussion symptoms, and ensuring there are no long-term effects.”

Six months. It felt like a lifetime, especially when her world had revolved around the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of esports. But at the same time, Tong Yao knew she was lucky to be here, to even have the chance to recover.

“Thank you, doctor,” Tong Yao said, her voice more certain now. “I’ll do everything you’ve recommended.”

The doctor nodded, satisfied. “Good. You’re on the right track, and with support and patience, I’m confident you’ll make a full recovery.”

---

As they left the clinic, the cool air hit Tong Yao’s face, and for the first time in days, she felt a small sense of clarity. The doctor had been honest with her—this recovery would take time, effort, and patience. It would challenge her in ways she hadn’t been challenged before.

But she wasn’t alone in this. She had Sicheng, the team, and her determination.

“I’m sorry,” she said softly as they walked toward the car.

Sicheng glanced at her, frowning. “Sorry? For what?”

“For everything. For worrying you, for making this harder than it needed to be.”

Sicheng stopped in his tracks, turning to face her. “Tong Yao, none of this is your fault. The only thing I care about is you getting better. We’ll get through this together, okay?”

She nodded, tears pricking at her eyes. “Okay.”

As they drove back to the base, Tong Yao looked out the window, her mind filled with thoughts of the future. Six months was a long time, but she would make it. She would heal. And when she did, she would come back stronger—not just as a player, but as a person.

And Sicheng would be right there beside her, every step of the way.

Chapter Text

A month had passed since Tong Yao had moved into the ZGDX base to recover. With each day, her strength returned bit by bit, and as her physical resilience grew, so did her bond with Sicheng. The accident had transformed their relationship in ways they hadn’t anticipated, deepening the love and understanding they shared. Through every moment of struggle, every small victory in recovery, Sicheng had been by her side, attentive and caring. His presence was a constant comfort, and his unwavering support had kept her spirits high.

In those quiet moments, where he would help her with her physical therapy exercises or encourage her with her dissertation work, they found themselves connected on a level neither of them had ever felt before. It felt natural, inevitable—like they were already building a life together.

One evening, after a long day of working on her dissertation and tackling another physical therapy session, Tong Yao sat with Sicheng in their room, leaning against him on the couch as they watched the city lights outside the window.

“Sicheng,” she said softly, her head resting on his shoulder. “I’ve been thinking.”

He tilted his head slightly, looking down at her. “What about?”

She took a deep breath, the words hovering in her mind before she spoke them aloud. “About us. About waiting. I feel like we’ve already been through so much together… why wait to get married?”

Sicheng’s eyes softened, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. “You’re right. We’ve gone through everything together, and if there’s one thing the last month has shown me, it’s that I don’t want to spend another day without you by my side. Not officially.”

Tong Yao smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. “Then let’s do it. Let’s get married.”

He looked at her, surprised but thrilled by her suggestion. “Are you serious? You want to elope?”

She nodded, her gaze steady and full of love. “Yes. I don’t want a big wedding, not right now. I just want it to be us—simple, meaningful, and soon.”

Sicheng’s smile widened, his hand reaching to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “Then let’s do it. Let’s go to the Bureau for Family Planning tomorrow.”

Her heart leapt at his words. It felt perfect, intimate in a way that spoke to the simplicity of their love. This wasn’t about grand gestures or public declarations—it was about the life they were building, one quiet moment at a time.

---

The decision to elope was simple. Intimate, without the fanfare, and most importantly, private. When they told the team, they’d expected surprise, maybe even a little shock, but instead, they were met with enthusiasm and a burst of excitement that Tong Yao hadn’t anticipated.

“Finally!” Ming exclaimed, practically bouncing in his seat. “We’ve been waiting forever for you two to tie the knot.”

Pang grinned, rubbing his hands together. “All right, then. So, what’s the plan? You’re not doing this alone—we’re helping.”

Before she knew it, the entire ZGDX team had thrown themselves into helping plan the elopement, each member eagerly taking on a different task. Ming appointed himself the “unofficial planner,” scouring stores for a dress and organizing small details, while Old Cat and K found a florist for a simple bouquet. Pang volunteered to secure reservations for a small dinner afterward to make the day feel special, knowing they’d be celebrating with a grander event later.

---

The morning of their elopement was filled with a quiet, magical energy. Tong Yao slipped into the dress that Ming had found—a soft, flowing ivory gown with delicate lace details around the neckline and sleeves. It was simple yet elegant, the perfect blend of classic beauty and modern grace. The bodice hugged her gently, flowing down into a soft, flowing skirt that pooled just slightly around her feet. The lace on her shoulders and collarbones added an understated elegance, making her look as if she’d stepped right out of a dream.

Her hair was styled loosely, with soft curls cascading over her shoulders, and Ming had insisted on adding a small floral crown made of baby’s breath, woven into her hair with care. The flowers complemented the dress perfectly, giving her an ethereal, natural look that took Sicheng’s breath away the moment he saw her.

“Yao Yao,” he whispered, taking in the sight of her with awe. “You look… perfect.”

She smiled shyly, her cheeks flushed. “You don’t look too bad yourself.”

Sicheng was dressed in a tailored suit, a simple white rose pinned to his lapel. They shared a quiet, heartfelt moment, their hands entwined, as they took in the weight of what was about to happen.

---

The team joined them for the drive to the Bureau for Family Planning, filling the car with their playful banter, but also a quiet reverence for the significance of the day. They were Tong Yao and Sicheng’s family—there to support, to celebrate, and to witness the start of their new life together.

The Bureau’s office was quiet and unassuming, and the simplicity of the setting only added to the intimacy of the moment. When they reached the desk, Tong Yao and Sicheng stood side by side, hands clasped, as they repeated their vows. The official led them through the process, her voice soft and steady, as she guided them through each line.

“Do you, Lu Sicheng, take Tong Yao as your lawfully wedded wife?”

Sicheng turned to Tong Yao, his eyes filled with unguarded love. “I do.”

“And do you, Tong Yao, take Lu Sicheng as your lawfully wedded husband?”

A tear slipped down her cheek, but her voice was strong as she replied, “I do.”

When the official pronounced them husband and wife, Tong Yao and Sicheng shared a quiet, gentle kiss that spoke of years of love, promises, and an unbreakable bond. The team cheered, their voices echoing in the small office as they clapped and laughed, filling the room with warmth and celebration.

---

Later that evening, as the newlyweds prepared to settle into their new life, Sicheng’s mother, Lu Wang, had arranged for a grand celebration at Lu Manor to welcome the new Mrs. Lu. When Tong Yao and Sicheng arrived at the estate, they were greeted by an elegantly decorated garden, lights strung across the trees, casting a warm glow over the entire area.

Tong Yao’s eyes widened as she took in the sight—guests mingling, tables draped in fine linens, a buffet lined with exquisite dishes, and flowers arranged everywhere. The air was filled with the sound of soft music and quiet laughter. The event was everything she hadn’t expected but somehow felt perfect, a celebration she hadn’t realized she’d wanted.

Sicheng looked down at her, a soft smile playing on his lips. “I guess my mom went a bit overboard.”

Tong Yao chuckled, squeezing his hand. “It’s beautiful.”

They entered the garden, and immediately, Lu Wang approached, her face lighting up with a proud smile. She pulled Tong Yao into a gentle hug, her voice warm as she said, “Welcome to the family, Yao Yao.”

“Thank you,” Tong Yao replied, touched by the sincerity in her voice.

Lu Yuchen, Sicheng’s father, joined them, nodding approvingly as he offered his congratulations. Even Lu Yue had made it, and he grinned at his new sister-in-law, offering her a playful salute.

The celebration was filled with heartfelt toasts, laughter, and well-wishes. Ming and the team took turns giving speeches, each one more ridiculous and endearing than the last. Ming, holding his glass high, grinned as he said, “To Yao Yao, the best mid-laner in all of China—and now, the most badass Mrs. Lu we could ask for!”

Everyone laughed, and the night continued, filled with shared memories and new promises.

As the evening wore on, Lu Wang slipped over to Tong Yao’s side, a playful glint in her eye. “You know, Yao Yao,” she began, her tone warm but teasing, “this is just the beginning. The Lu family is eager for its next chapter.”

Tong Yao blinked, slightly taken aback. “Next chapter?”

Lu Wang smiled, giving her a knowing look. “Yes. I think a grandchild or two would bring even more joy to our family. Don’t you agree?”

Tong Yao’s cheeks flushed, and she stammered, “Oh… I… well…”

Before she could respond, Sicheng appeared, slipping his arm around her and grinning at his mother. “Mom, don’t scare her off. We’ll get there when we’re ready.”

Lu Wang laughed, waving her hand dismissively. “Oh, I’m just saying what everyone’s thinking.”

Sicheng shook his head, a playful grin on his face, and led Tong Yao back to the main celebration. They danced under the stars, the quiet music carrying them into the night, surrounded by friends, family, and the endless possibilities of their future together.

---

As the celebration continued, Tong Yao found herself reflecting on the day—the simplicity of their elopement, the quiet intimacy of their vows, and now the grand celebration that made her feel like a true part of the Lu family.

She looked over at Sicheng, her heart full as she realized that this was only the beginning. They had a lifetime ahead, one filled with dreams, challenges, and perhaps even the children Lu Wang had hinted at. And as the night wore on, surrounded by laughter, love, and the warmth of family, she knew that she had found her place.

Sicheng pulled her close, his voice soft as he whispered, “Welcome to forever, Mrs. Lu.”

And as they danced together under the star-filled sky, she knew that forever was exactly where she wanted to be.

Chapter Text

The month following their wedding passed in a beautiful blur, filled with joy, healing, and new adventures. Sicheng and Tong Yao’s relationship had deepened, strengthened by their shared dreams and the challenges they’d overcome. As Tong Yao continued her recovery, she balanced her role as Sicheng’s partner with the excitement of finishing her studies, preparing to graduate, and stepping into her new role as ZGDX’s data analyst and coach. Each day, she found herself marveling at how much life had changed—and how much she loved every moment of it.

Through everything, Sicheng was there, her steadfast partner and anchor. He was by her side for every triumph and every setback, helping her find strength when she felt overwhelmed. In those quiet, shared moments, they began to feel the weight of a future they were building together, one where every challenge was a stepping stone to a life they could truly call their own.

Life at the ZGDX base had settled into a comfortable rhythm for Tong Yao and Sicheng. Since moving in, Tong Yao had found solace in the constant support of the team, the steady presence of Sicheng, and the newfound familiarity of her surroundings. It was a far cry from the hectic life she’d once juggled between her old apartment and the base, and now that she was living here full-time, her apartment felt less and less like home.

One quiet afternoon, as she and Sicheng sat on the couch, discussing the future, she brought up the idea that had been lingering in the back of her mind.

“Hey, Sicheng,” she began, glancing over at him. “I’ve been thinking… maybe I should give up my apartment. I haven’t been there in weeks, and it feels silly to keep paying for it when I’m here full-time now.”

He nodded thoughtfully, looking at her with that steady gaze she’d come to love. “I was wondering when you’d mention it. I think you’re right. We don’t need two places—and if we’re staying at the base full-time, we could find somewhere that’s really ours. A place to escape to when we want some quiet.”

Tong Yao felt a warm thrill at the idea. The thought of creating a space for just the two of them, away from the team and the demands of the base, made her heart race with excitement. It would be their sanctuary, a place that belonged to them alone.

“Okay,” she said with a smile. “Let’s look for something together.”

---

Finally, graduation day arrived. Tong Yao had dreamed of this moment for years, and now that it was here, she could hardly believe it. Dressed in her cap and gown, she joined her fellow graduates, taking a deep breath as she looked out at the audience. She spotted Sicheng and her family, as well as her ZGDX teammates, filling several rows with their proud, eager faces. Ming, Old Cat, K, Pang, and Xiao Rui had all come, looking proud and a little emotional, even though they’d teased her nonstop in the days leading up to the ceremony.

As her name was called, Tong Yao walked across the stage, her heart pounding as she accepted her diploma. She looked out at her family, her team, and her husband, all cheering her on with proud, beaming faces. Her gaze met Sicheng’s, and she saw the love and admiration in his eyes—a look that made her heart feel full to bursting.

Later, when they gathered outside for photos and congratulations, Ming threw an arm around her shoulder, grinning. “Look at you, Dr. Lu Yao! Our mid-laner turned genius analyst. Never thought I’d see the day.”

Old Cat chuckled, handing her a small bouquet of flowers. “We’re proud of you, Yao Yao. ZGDX is lucky to have you.”

Lu Wang and Lu Yuchen, Sicheng’s parents, approached next, offering their heartfelt congratulations. Lu Wang held Tong Yao’s hands, a warm smile on her face. “We always knew you’d accomplish great things. Welcome to the family, Dr. Lu Yao.”

Tong Yao blushed, feeling truly at home in their embrace, grateful for the family she’d gained.

Just as she was settling into the joy of the moment, she felt a hand gently take hers, and she looked up to see Sicheng holding out a small velvet box.

“Sicheng…?” she whispered, her eyes widening.

He smiled, kneeling in front of her in front of everyone. “Yao Yao, you’ve already given me more than I ever deserved. But today is your day, and I wanted to make it unforgettable.”

He opened the box, revealing a delicate necklace with a silver pendant shaped like a game controller, small diamonds set where the buttons would be. “It’s a reminder of everything you’ve achieved and everything you mean to me.”

Tears filled her eyes as she looked down at him, a wave of emotion washing over her. “Sicheng… it’s beautiful. Thank you.”

He fastened the necklace around her neck, then leaned forward, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. The crowd around them clapped and cheered, and Tong Yao felt her heart swell with gratitude for the man who had been by her side through it all.

---

A few days after graduation, Tong Yao stepped into her new role at ZGDX as their data analyst and coach. Her office, set up right next to Sicheng’s, was filled with charts, statistics, and her research binders. She found herself thriving in the role, analyzing game data, designing strategies, and training the team with a level of precision and passion that surprised even her.

The team quickly came to rely on her insights. Ming and Old Cat, always eager for new tips, would often pop into her office with questions, and even Xiao Rui took to consulting her on team dynamics. Her days were filled with strategy meetings, intense practice sessions, and the satisfaction of knowing that her work was making a difference.

One evening, as she and Sicheng sat together in her office, reviewing footage from the day’s practice, Sicheng looked over at her, his eyes warm with admiration.

“You know, you’re everything this team needed,” he said softly. “I always knew you’d be amazing, but seeing you here… it’s even better than I imagined.”

Tong Yao smiled, reaching for his hand. “Thank you, Sicheng. This feels like a dream come true.”

---

Within days, Tong Yao’s presence was felt throughout the team. Her analytical approach to gameplay brought a fresh perspective, and her data-driven strategies quickly became the foundation of their training sessions.

Ming was the first to embrace her methods, constantly popping into her office with questions. “Yao Yao, what does the data say about my positioning last game? Be honest. But not too honest,” he added with a grin.

Old Cat, though more reserved, quietly appreciated her insights. “Your notes on their jungler’s tendencies were spot on. I knew exactly when he’d try to invade,” he told her after a scrim.

Even Xiao Rui, who was known for his careful, strategic thinking, found himself impressed by her ability to identify areas for improvement. “You’re a natural,” he admitted one evening after practice. “This team is lucky to have you.”

—————

Balancing her roles as coach, analyst, and Sicheng’s wife brought its own set of challenges. During team meetings, she maintained a professional demeanor, treating Sicheng no differently than the other players. But behind closed doors, their partnership was stronger than ever.

One evening, as they reviewed game footage together, Sicheng glanced over at her, a playful smirk on his lips. “You’re a little tough on me during practice, don’t you think?”

Tong Yao raised an eyebrow, her tone teasing. “Captain Lu Sicheng can handle it. Besides, you need to set an example.”

He chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “Fair enough. Just don’t expect me to go easy on you in our next scrim.”

—————

A few weeks into her new role, Tong Yao and Sicheng were invited to dinner at Lu Manor. Over the last few months , she had grown close to Sicheng’s parents, but tonight felt different. There was a buzz of excitement in the air, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that something significant was about to happen.

Halfway through the meal, Lu Wang set down her wine glass, her eyes sparkling. “We have a surprise for you both,” she announced, glancing between Tong Yao and Sicheng.

Lu Yuchen nodded, a proud smile on his face. “We wanted to give you something special to celebrate your marriage and the start of your life together.”

Sicheng raised an eyebrow, curious. “What kind of surprise?”

Lu Wang handed Tong Yao an envelope, her expression warm. “Open it and see.”

Tong Yao carefully opened the envelope, her heart racing. Inside was a set of keys and a deed to a house. Her eyes widened as she looked up at Lu Wang in shock. “This… this is for us?”

Lu Wang nodded, her voice filled with affection. “It’s a house—a place for you to grow together. We know how much you’ve loved your time at the base, but we thought you might appreciate a space of your own. Somewhere to build your future.”

Tears filled Tong Yao’s eyes as she clutched the keys. “Thank you. I don’t even know what to say.”

Lu Wang reached over, placing a hand on hers. “Just promise us you’ll fill it with love, laughter, and maybe… a few grandchildren one day.”

Tong Yao’s cheeks flushed, and she stammered, “Oh, I… uh…”

Sicheng chuckled, slipping an arm around her. “Mom, one step at a time.”

—————

The following weekend, Tong Yao and Sicheng drove to their new home. It was everything they hadn’t dared to dream of: a modern yet cozy house in a quiet neighborhood, with large windows that let in plenty of light and a spacious kitchen perfect for late-night snacks. As they explored the rooms, Tong Yao couldn’t help but imagine the life they would build here.

When they reached the master bedroom, Sicheng pulled her into his arms, resting his forehead against hers. “What do you think, Mrs. Lu?”

She smiled, her eyes shining. “It’s perfect. More than I ever imagined.”

They spent the day unpacking, their laughter echoing through the empty house as they worked. By evening, they were curled up on the couch, watching the city lights twinkle through the large windows.

“This feels like a dream,” Tong Yao murmured, her head on Sicheng’s shoulder. “I never thought I’d have all this—a career I love, a family who supports me, and you.”

Sicheng kissed her temple, his voice soft. “It’s not a dream, Yao Yao. This is our life. And it’s only just beginning.”

Looking Ahead

As they sat together in their new home, the quiet night wrapping around them, Tong Yao found herself thinking about the future. She imagined the milestones they would share, the challenges they would overcome, and the memories they would create in this house.

For the first time in a long while, she felt completely at peace. Their journey hadn’t been easy, but it had been worth every step. And as she looked over at Sicheng, his hand resting gently on hers, she knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together.

“Welcome home,” he whispered, his voice filled with love.

Tong Yao smiled, leaning into him. “Welcome home.”

The End