A Bittersweet Escape

I shot him a glare, my irritation barely concealed. “I must thank you, Second Brother and Third Brother, for your previous ‘guidance.’ This debt of gratitude is one I will never forget—not if I live a thousand years!”

Hearing my thinly veiled sarcasm, both of them had the decency to look ashamed. Only Big Brother Guo was oblivious, glancing at the three of us locked in our silent struggle before turning back to Xiao Qi. His voice softened. “Old Fourth’s idea is solid. If nothing goes wrong, we should be able to get you out of Tianwu University safe and sound, without anyone the wiser. By the time those old professors or outside experts get wind of it, we’ll be long gone.”

There was a tenderness in his words, a hint of relief. I looked over and saw Xiao Qi still listless, her fox ears drooping. She gave a sullen grunt in response. A thought struck me: parting was imminent, and who knew when we’d meet again? A wave of sorrow washed over me.

But now was not the time for melancholy. Forcing a smile, I joined Guo Hao in comforting her. “Don’t be so down, Xiao Qi. Didn’t we agree? Once we four finish our studies—or even during winter and summer breaks—we’ll try our best to visit you in your hometown. Besides, Big Brother Guo will escort you all the way. The road is long; you’ll have plenty of time together. It won’t be an immediate farewell.”

Xiao Qi pouted slightly, her ears twitching, then drooping again. “Ah, but… but…” she mumbled, unable to finish. Her dark, glistening eyes swept over me, Second Brother, and Third Brother before she lowered her head in distress.

Seeing her like that, my heart ached. I understood what she meant…

But in the end, we must part.

In the end, she must part with Brother Guo.

But…

But all feasts must end.

“Time waits for no one. Prepare for the worst. Let’s start now.” I gritted my teeth, not allowing a shred of sorrow to show. “Third Brother, get your gear ready. The three of you, wait outside the door.”

Honestly, Guo Hao and the others had caught Xiao Qi’s implication too. They were all subdued. Third Brother hung his head and silently went to his wardrobe to rummage. Even the usually lecherous Yang Laoer forgot to crack a joke like “We’re all brothers, what’s the harm in watching you change?” He meekly followed Guo Hao out the door.

Third Brother wordlessly handed me the bundle of items, then followed suit, pulling the dormitory door shut behind him.

As the door clicked shut, a wave of exhaustion hit me. Ignoring Xiao Qi’s curious gaze, I slumped into my chair, clutching Third Brother’s bundle, and closed my eyes.

A warm, damp sensation on my hand startled me. I opened my eyes to find Xiao Qi gently licking my fingers. I forced another smile and stroked her fluffy head. “I’m fine. Don’t mind me. You’ll be okay too—we’ll get you home. When you’re older, and we’re stronger, no one will dare bully you or force us apart again.”

I wasn’t sure if I was comforting her or myself.

But amidst the sorrow and tangled emotions, one thought remained steadfast: I had to save her. She had to live.

…

When everything was ready, I steadied my nerves, rallied my spirits, and regained some of my usual composure.

I could save her.

I told myself that as I patted her head again.

Her eyes—trusting and calm—told me my own gaze must have been much stronger, much more reliable than before.

“I’m ready. Come in,” I called out, taking a deep breath and pulling open the door. The three brothers filed in. Yang Laoer and Linghu Ruoxu had seen this before, so they kept their composure. But Guo Hao, even in this critical moment, turned beet red.

“Damn it, didn’t I explain everything already? Why are you blushing now?” I shot him a half-annoyed glare, which finally settled him down.