Chapter 34 – Meeting the Parents

Mum’s sudden recovery, new worries

• Su Mei’s test results all come back normal; doctors can’t explain why her collapse was so brief.
• Li Huan‑huan feels the stone that’s weighed on her since she “awakened” two years ago finally lifts—yet a fresh problem appears: to comfort Mum she lied that she and Qin Shi are dating, and Su Mei has instantly taken it as fact.

A deal sealed in the study

That night Huan‑huan messages her best friend Xiao Jing, admitting she’s tangled in lies.
She decides the easiest way out is to stage a single family meal—then announce a peaceful break‑up later.

But at breakfast Su Mei cheerfully says she’s already invited “Xiao Shi” to lunch the moment she’s discharged.
Huan‑huan has no choice but to dash next‑door and beg Qin Shi to play along.

To her relief Qin Shi needs the same favour: a clingy guest at his flat won’t believe he’s taken. They agree—fake couple until Mum is reassured.

Lunch with both parents

Venue: an old‑school Sichuan restaurant

• Qin Shi arrives early, books a private room and even meets the taxi outside, instantly charming Su Mei and step‑dad Liu Jianguo.
• During the meal he chats about square‑dance music with Mum and fishing gear with Dad; by dessert Su Mei is positively glowing.
• At the cashier Huan‑huan has to stop her mother slipping a bridegroom’s red envelope into Qin Shi’s pocket.

Huan‑huan’s inner monologue: “Never lie—one lie breeds twenty more!”
She plans to tell Mum they’ve “broken up” once things cool down… but with each encounter Qin Shi makes it harder.

After‑effects

A few days later Mum and Liu Jianguo return to their suburb. Huan‑huan finally exhales and resolves to end the charade soon. Just then Qin Shi calls:

“Could you help again? I have to attend a friend’s wedding… and I really need my girlfriend beside me.”

Huan‑huan freezes. Another performance?

(Next: Chapter 35 – The Jade Necklace)