Running Towards You - Chapter 66

Professor Lu thought it over and said, “You’d better call me Uncle. It sounds younger.”

“Alright, Uncle,” Ji Yin said obediently. “But in my hometown, ‘Uncle’ is actually a very affectionate term.”

“Hmm,” Professor Lu asked, “Are you from the north?”

“Yes, but I moved to the south when I was a teenager,” Ji Yin replied.

“Don’t just drink tea, try some of these snacks. Not many young people enjoy drinking tea,” Liu Jia said, worried she might not like tea, and placed the snacks in front of her.

“That’s true,” Professor Lu laughed. “Zaozao doesn’t like it either.”

“I actually quite enjoy drinking tea,” Ji Yin said.

“Really?”

“Yes,” Ji Yin glanced at his empty cup, picked up the kettle, and poured water into the tea bowl. The water flowed at a 45-degree angle against the inner wall of the bowl, swirling the tea leaves and water together. She covered the bowl, shook it up and down three times, and then refilled his cup.

“Phoenix Three Nods you even know how to do that?” Professor Lu exclaimed in surprise.

“I learned it by watching others brew tea before,” Ji Yin explained.

“Do you know the full process?”

“I can give it a try, but I’m not sure if I’m doing it correctly.”

“No problem,” Professor Lu said enthusiastically, bringing out another set of tea utensils for her to practice with.

Ji Yin poured boiling water into the tea bowl. Under the pressure, the lid shifted slightly, producing a crisp sound as it tapped against the rim of the bowl.

Lu Jiahe watched with great interest. Her focused gaze, fluid movements, and the effortless grace in her demeanor created a striking contrast, both spirited and serene, like a reclusive tea master, making it hard to look away.

She glanced over unintentionally and noticed her parents watching even more intently, a slight smile curling at the corners of their mouths.

Meanwhile, Ji Yin seemed completely absorbed in her task, oblivious to their gazes. She poured tea leaves into the bowl, covered it, shook it to release the aroma, poured out the first infusion, and then repeated the earlier steps.

“Excellent!” Professor Lu took the teacup she handed him, took a couple of sips, and was thoroughly pleased. “Wonderful! Finally, there’s someone in the house who understands tea.”

Liu Jia also took a few sips and smiled. “Now I understand why I never enjoyed watching Old Lu and his friends brew tea. It’s nowhere near as captivating as watching this young lady, Ji Yin. The aesthetic appeal is on a whole different level.”

“I agree,” Lu Jiahe chimed in.

Professor Lu laughed heartily. “Well, if we’re talking about aesthetics, I certainly can’t compare to them.”

“I’m just dabbling in elegance all style, no substance. You, Uncle, are the ones with true refined taste,” Ji Yin said with a smile.

“Hey, you’ve already got the form down. Don’t sell yourself short. Another day, I’ll take you to the tea room for a visit.”

“Alright.”

“We can talk about ‘another day’ another day. For now, go take care of lunch,” Liu Jia said, glancing at the time and urging them.

“Fine. Zaozao, keep her company for a while. We’ll go prepare the meal.”

After the elders went to the kitchen, Lu Jiahe took her on a tour of the house.

“You have so many books in your home.” Ji Yin remarked in awe.

The living room had a massive bookshelf, and the study was lined with books covering three entire walls. Even smaller spaces were stacked with books, making Ji Yin feel as if she had stepped into a library.

“It’s for their work. My mom’s reading tastes are a bit more eclectic. Feel free to pick out a few books to take back and read,” Lu Jiahe said.

“Okay.”

Then Lu Jiahe took her to her own room. Ji Yin asked nervously in a hushed voice, “How did I do just now? Did I make any mistakes?”

“No, you did great,” Lu Jiahe said with a smile.

“Really?”

“Really. Didn’t you hear my dad say you’re the new member of the family?”

“I just feel a bit unbelievable.” Ji Yin could hardly believe she had gained acceptance so quickly, but she still didn’t dare let her guard down. She blocked Lu Jiahe’s lips as she leaned in for a kiss. “It wouldn’t be good if your parents found out.”

Lu Jiahe promptly locked the door and looked at her leisurely.

Their eyes met, and Ji Yin resolved to resist the temptation, her gaze as firm as if she were about to join the Party.

Seeing this, Lu Jiahe didn’t press further, only chuckled softly before turning to continue the introduction. “I stay here often, so I have everything I need.”

Ji Yin looked around the warmly decorated bedroom, her eyes fixed on the many photos of family and friends arranged on the desk, studying them one by one.

“Where is this?” she asked, pointing to a family photo with an endless expanse of azure sea in the background.

“Ludao,” Lu Jiahe replied.

“I’ve been to Ludao too, but I never found such a beautiful spot. Or maybe I just didn’t pay enough attention.”

“When did you go?”

“About ten years ago. I went there to deal in seafood.”

“Ten years ago? We went there ten years ago too. Maybe we even ran into each other.”

“Really?” Ji Yin imagined the scene for a moment, then quickly shook her head. “Never mind, it’s better we didn’t meet. I reeked of fish back then, it was awful.”

Lu Jiahe chuckled.

Ji Yin continued looking at the other photos. One was a high school graduation picture. She picked it up for a closer look, but as she turned to ask about it, she froze

Lu Jiahe was standing in front of the wardrobe changing, wearing only her underwear as she rummaged for clothes on the shelf.

Ji Yin set the photo frame down in a daze, her eyes fixed on Lu Jiahe’s well-proportioned figure. She walked softly behind her, wrapped her arms around her waist, and kissed the nape of her neck, trailing kisses up to her ear.

She had overestimated her self-control, there was no resisting the temptation that was Lu Jiahe. With her palm feeling the other’s body warmth, she wished she could merge her into her very bones.

Lu Jiahe turned her head, their eyes meeting. Ji Yin captured her lips in a kiss, swallowing every sound she made.

“Which do you think looks better this green one or the white one?” Lu Jiahe held up two outfits, comparing them in front of herself.

“They both look good,” Ji Yin said, her eyes fixed on the red marks on Lu Jiahe’s body, her own face flushing bright red. “Hurry up and get dressed, or you’ll catch a cold.”

“The air conditioning is on I’m practically boiling.” Lu Jiahe turned to check herself in the mirror, then pulled a coat out of the wardrobe. “Let’s go with this brown one. It matches what you’re wearing better.”

Ji Yin was wearing the coat Lu Jiahe had given her today, which made her look gentler, though the effect couldn’t compare to Lu Jiahe’s natural grace she was inherently a gentle person.

As Ji Yin watched the now fully dressed woman, she thought of the unrestrained expression on her face earlier. It felt like she had eaten several pounds of sugar all at once so sweet it was almost overwhelming.

Before opening the door, Ji Yin grabbed her wrist. “Wait.”

“What’s wrong?”

As Lu Jiahe turned, she saw Ji Yin holding a fist in front of her eyes, then opening her hand to let a necklace dangle down.

She looked at the necklace in delight.

“Your parents’ gifts have already been given, this one is for you,” Ji Yin said.

“I get a gift too?”

“Of course. Anyone else might go without, but not you.”

Lu Jiahe smiled gently and took it, only to discover it was a smiley face necklace.

“You look beautiful when you smile I hope you’re happy every day,” Ji Yin said.

“Thank you, I love it.” Lu Jiahe held the pendant against her cheek, curling the corners of her mouth as she smiled along with the necklace.

Watching her filled Ji Yin with joy, and she cupped Lu Jiahe’s face, planting several more kisses on it.

After opening the door, Lu Jiahe immediately ran to the kitchen to show off her gift. “Dad, Mom, look at the necklace Ji Yin gave me! Isn’t it pretty?”

“It’s lovely, very suitable for you simple and elegant,” Professor Lu replied, turning around.

“Yes, it goes well with your outfit today. Ji Yin has great taste,” Liu Jia praised.

Ji Yin was caught off guard by the scene, deeply moved.

She had chosen to give the gift privately because she felt too shy to do it in front of Lu Jiahe’s parents. Yet, Lu Jiahe, like a child, couldn’t wait to share it with them right away.

And not only did Lu Jiahe’s parents respond positively, but they also complimented Ji Yin in the process.

Ji Yin had never personally witnessed such a loving family before no wonder Lu Jiahe was so good at expressing love.

As for herself, she couldn’t even bring herself to use affectionate nicknames, finding them too embarrassing to say out loud.

Once the food was on the table, Ji Yin noticed half the dishes were spicy and asked with concern, “Uncle, Teacher Liu, can you handle spicy food?”

“I can eat a little, don’t worry. There are mild dishes too,” Liu Jia said with a laugh. “Try this Kung Pao chicken I made and tell me what you think.”

Ji Yin took a few bites and praised enthusiastically, “It’s delicious!”

Lu Jiahe chuckled. “You’re so supportive. My mom only started cooking after she retired Dad used to do all the cooking before.”

“Wow,” Ji Yin exclaimed, taking a bite of the steamed sea bass. “This fish is amazing too! You guys are culinary masters!”

The whole family laughed, chatting and joking together. They talked about everyday family matters, funny incidents from Professor Lu’s classes, Liu Jia’s most memorable interviews, and Lu Jiahe’s work life.

Ji Yin felt incredibly at ease. No one asked about her past; instead, they shared their own worries and joys. Inspired, she found herself opening up about the small challenges she’d faced recently while opening a new branch.

Everyone offered advice, and the overall atmosphere made her exceptionally happy.

After the meal, Liu Jia suggested they all go out for a walk to pass the time.

As soon as they stepped out, their neighbor, Granny Li, immediately opened her door and asked, “Where are you all off to?”

“Just going for a casual stroll,” Liu Jia replied.

“What a coincidence! I was just about to go to Yanhua to buy some ginseng. Want to come along?” Granny Li asked.

Liu Jia glanced at Ji Yin. “What do you think?”

Ji Yin was surprised to be the first one consulted and felt flattered. “Sure, that works.”

Since they hadn’t decided where to go anyway, it wouldn’t hurt to take advantage of the opportunity.

When they arrived at the supermarket, Granny Li got out of the car and looked back at Ji Yin’s vehicle. “I don’t really see what’s so special about it compared to a regular car. The back seat is so cramped you can’t even stretch your legs. How can it be so expensive?”

Liu Jia smiled and said, “Of course, it’s not as spacious as your son’s SUV. Everyone has their own preferences. If you like the family car, you can just ride in it more often from now on.”

“That makes sense,” Old Lady Li nodded.

Lu Jiahe and Ji Yin walked behind them, and he whispered, “Don’t take Old Lady Li’s words to heart, okay?”

“What did she say?” Ji Yin asked, confused.

“Alright, I was overthinking it.”

Ji Yin chuckled, covering her mouth as she whispered in his ear, “Her words can’t hurt me at all. I’m not even close to her. I’ve heard much worse, and it’s the sarcastic remarks from people I know that really sting.”

Lu Jiahe affectionately held her hand and turned to ask, “Dad, what do you think of her car?”

“Not bad. It should be a good driving experience,” Professor Lu muttered to them. “It’s a shame your mom won’t let me spend money on cars, or I’d really like to give it a try.”

“Then why don’t you test-drive it later, Uncle?” Ji Yin suggested.

“Really?”

“Of course.”

“That’s great, thank you.” Professor Lu walked ahead with a light step to share the news with Liu Jia.

Ji Yin found it amusing and whispered, “Before coming, I thought your dad would be a very serious person, but he’s actually kind of cute.”

“Sometimes he’s a bit mischievous. In winter, he secretly uses our face cream on his feet, saying it works well. He’s been scolded for it so many times.”

Ji Yin burst out laughing.

“Sister Ji,” the employees inside greeted her one after another as they saw her.

“Why do they all call you ‘sister’?” Old Lady Li asked curiously.

“Because they’re younger than me.”

“What about those older than you?”

“Director Ji, you’re just in time. I have something to discuss with you,” an older manager strode over and said.

“That’s what they call me,” Ji Yin turned to the manager and asked, “Is it urgent?”

The manager glanced at the others, realizing they were her guests, and tactfully replied, “It’s not that urgent. We can talk after you’re done.”

“Alright.”

Ji Yin nodded and continued leading them forward, stopping at the ginseng section where she picked up a few products to recommend to Old Lady Li.

Just then, Lu Jiahe noticed Yanzi hiding not far away, peeking sneakily in their direction, and waved with a smile.

“Sister Jiahe,” Yanzi approached sheepishly.

“This is Ji Yin’s sister, Liang Yan,” Lu Jiahe introduced her to his parents.

“Hello, Uncle and Aunt. You can just call me Yanzi,” Yanzi nodded repeatedly.

Liu Jia smiled and said, “Hello, Yanzi.”

“Teacher Liu! I finally get to meet you in person. Can I have your autograph?!” Yanzi excitedly pulled out a pen.

Liu Jia was surprised. “Me?”

“Yes, we’ve all watched your show. You’ve been on TV!” Yanzi had the fervor of meeting a big star.

“It’s work hours, tone it down a bit,” Ji Yin patted her shoulder, signaling her to calm down.

“Okay. Teacher Liu, may I please have your autograph~”

Liu Jia and the others laughed, unable to refuse her enthusiasm. He took the pen and signed, “Just so you know, I’m not some big celebrity.”

“I know, you’re a master!”

Liu Jia didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. “Then I really don’t deserve that title.”

“Ji Yin, your sister is quite interesting too. Is she the sister who’s getting married?” Professor Lu asked.

“Yes.”

Yanzi, who had just been informed she was getting married: “???”

“When did this happen?” Yanzi leaned close to Ji Yin and whispered, “How come I didn’t know I’m getting married?”

“Isn’t it just a matter of the next year or two?” Ji Yin replied.

“I haven’t made up my mind yet. You’re like the emperor’s eunuch worrying more than the emperor himself.”

“Who are you calling a eunuch?”

“You’re the eunuch.”

“You’re the eunuch!” Ji Yin tugged at her braid.

“Ah!” Yanzi had just raised her foot but, noticing the Lu family watching them with amusement, immediately started doing squats. “Don’t misunderstand we’re just exercising.”

Lu Jiahe: “Pfft.”

The elderly couple: “Haha.”

Ji Yin caught on too and instinctively grabbed Lu Jiahe’s hand, giving her a meaningful look.

“You haven’t left a bad impression they really like you,” Lu Jiahe whispered, smoothing her hair and leaning close to her ear. “You’re so irresistibly charming, I feel like taking you back and locking you up right now.”

With everyone watching, Lu Jiahe’s whispered flirtation made her heart race, her face flushing rapidly.

Though no one knew exactly what they were saying, Ji Yin’s expression gave it away, and everyone tactfully pretended not to notice.

“Is anyone going to pay attention to me?” Granny Li held up the ginseng and asked, “Boss, can’t you give me a better discount? I came here specifically to buy ginseng. For Jiahe’s sake, can’t you lower the price a bit more?”

“I’ve already given you the lowest discounted price out of respect for her. I really can’t go any lower. If it’s not acceptable, I can give you the address so you can go dig it up yourself in the mountains no middleman to take a cut,” Ji Yin said.

Granny Li: “…”

“How can you talk to an elder like that? Where are your manners?” Yanzi nudged her and warmly approached Granny Li. “You must be Dr. Lu’s grandmother, right?”

Granny Li: “???”

The Lu family nearly lost their composure again, but their strong moral discipline kept them in check.

Ji Yin, however, had no such restraint she burst out laughing, and quite loudly at that.

Granny Li: “??????”

Are you sisters even polite?!