Chapter 44: “Not Even Friends”

The ceremony didn’t last long, and as they left the venue, Jiang Yao found himself surrounded by students, mostly girls, chatting excitedly with him.

The reason was simple. Compared to Duan Zhuxian’s refined and calm adult demeanor, Jiang Yao appeared more approachable.

Despite his cool and aloof attitude, he always had a faint smile on his face, exuding a carefree and flamboyant charm that perfectly matched their age group’s aesthetic.

As they walked onto a wider path, the noisy crowd gradually dispersed.

Jiang Yao turned back and unexpectedly met Duan Zhuxian’s thoughtful gaze. A hint of brightness flashed in his eyes as he turned to face Duan Zhuxian, walking backward. “Mr. Duan, are you envious of my popularity?”

Duan Zhuxian replied, “I’m used to it. The school has always been your stage.”

He had seen Jiang Yao surrounded by crowds too many times.

Jiang Yao was always in the midst of bustling activity and love, never lacking companions. Wherever he went, it was like sunshine followed him. This made Duan Zhuxian once firmly believe that Jiang Yao’s life would be the same with or without him. This belief was part of the reason he had changed his college preference to apply to Q University.

He never imagined that Jiang Yao might actually need him, even just a little.

As they spoke, the two walked side by side into a camphor tree grove with falling leaves. Ahead, a group of tall and strong boys approached.

The boy leading the group, holding a basketball, didn’t bother with greetings. He directly stood in front of Jiang Yao and said, “I heard Senior Jiang is very good at basketball. Back then, when national team members visited our school, Senior Jiang scored twice against professional players.”

Jiang Yao raised an eyebrow in surprise, “My reputation has lasted ten years?”

The boy nodded, trying hard to hide the anticipation in his eyes and maintain an air of adult composure, “We’ve always wanted to compete with Senior Jiang. We wonder if Senior Jiang has time to give us some pointers?”

This kid’s flattering words were transparent to Jiang Yao. He knew exactly what they were thinking. Playing against him and losing wouldn’t be embarrassing, but if they managed to win, the bragging rights would last until graduation.

Having not played in a while, Jiang Yao felt an itch to get back on the court. He decided to humor the boy’s little scheme.

Another boy sneaked a glance at Duan Zhuxian before quickly looking away, asking Jiang Yao, “Does Senior Duan play?”

“He doesn’t play.”

“I play.”

They spoke simultaneously.

Jiang Yao looked at Duan Zhuxian in disbelief, thinking he must have misheard.

Back in school, whenever Jiang Yao wanted to compete with Duan Zhuxian in any sport, it always took a lot of convincing to get him to join. He had never seen Duan Zhuxian so eager before.

As they reached the basketball court, Jiang Yao, while warming up, said to Duan Zhuxian, “Shall we each lead a team?”

Duan Zhuxian replied, “I want to be on your team.”

Jiang Yao’s stretching motion halted, his thoughts momentarily stuck.

He had never considered the possibility of him and Duan Zhuxian fighting side by side.

Jiang Yao pursed his lips and said, “Two adults teaming up to bully kids, only you would have the nerve.”

This remark was overheard by one of the young boys listening in. The boy, tossing the basketball, retorted defiantly, “We’ve represented the school in competitions before. Don’t underestimate us, Senior.”

After some discussion, eight boys divided into three to join their team. The basketball court gradually filled with spectators.

The game was for fun, not following official competition rules, and would be decided by which side scored more in half an hour.

A minute into the game, the ball ended up in Jiang Yao’s hands. Seeing this, all five boys on the opposing team swarmed to block him, abandoning any semblance of strategy.

Just as Jiang Yao had guessed, these kids were determined to win against him to earn some bragging rights.

But unfortunately for them, their interception methods were child’s play to Jiang Yao.

In an instant, Jiang Yao had already predicted the route. The problem was the sheer number of opponents in front of him, and the three kids on his team seemed to be deliberately giving points to the other side, making it a bit troublesome.

He dribbled around the first person and was about to evade the next obstacle when he paused for a moment.

At the edge of his vision, Duan Zhuxian had somehow positioned himself in the best spot, signaling with his eyes for a pass.

Jiang Yao suddenly realized that Duan Zhuxian was by his side. Duan Zhuxian was no longer an insurmountable opponent but an equally matched ally.

He didn’t need to bypass multiple players and exhaust himself running for a shot.

He just needed to pass the ball. Someone was waiting for him up ahead.

Thinking this, he acted on it.

The basketball arced through the air, and Duan Zhuxian caught it precisely, effortlessly making a basket.

After their first successful collaboration, the two quickly found their rhythm. With three slackers on their team, they still easily won the game without breaking a sweat.

Jiang Yao ultimately eased up a bit, not wanting to let the boys lose too badly, considering there might be someone they were trying to impress among the spectators.

The boys, still reeling from their defeat, no longer had their earlier arrogance. The team captain, clutching the ball, admitted defeat, “Senior, we’re too weak.”

Having played a good game, Jiang Yao was in a good mood. Looking at the dejected boys in front of him, he casually offered some encouragement, “Your skills are decent, but you’re too eager to win and lack composure.”

The boys blushed, having their thoughts hit the mark, but they no longer looked as frustrated.

Jiang Yao smiled, “But then again, what young person doesn’t want to win?”

One of the boys asked, “Can we play with you again sometime, Senior?”

Jiang Yao nodded, “Of course, if there’s a chance.”

After the game, Duan Zhuxian approached Jiang Yao, “Nice skills, teammate.”

As he spoke, he raised his hand, palm facing Jiang Yao.

Jiang Yao paused for a moment before realizing Duan Zhuxian wanted a high-five. 

A smile played on Jiang Yao’s lips as he slapped his palm against Duan Zhuxian’s with a resounding “clap.”

“You’re not bad either.”

—

After the game, Jiang Yao’s damp school uniform jacket had mostly dried.

Just as he was about to take off Duan Zhuxian’s jacket, he saw Duan Zhuxian grab his school jacket and put it on without hesitation.

Jiang Yao’s jacket was a size smaller and fit tightly on Duan Zhuxian.

But he wasn’t going to point it out.

Pointing it out would be like admitting his physique was inferior to Duan Zhuxian’s.

After having lunch with the school leaders in the cafeteria, the two were invited to participate in various afternoon campus activities, and posed for photos with the school leaders.

It was almost dinner time when Jiang Yao finally had a moment to check his phone. He saw a message from his high school class president, sent a few hours ago, mentioning plans to gather at a restaurant near the school for a reunion during the anniversary celebration.

Jiang Yao had many friends in his class and hadn’t seen them in a while. Feeling nostalgic, he agreed to join.

Coincidentally, Duan Zhuxian had also received an invitation to his class reunion at the same restaurant.

The gathering was on the third floor. Jiang Yao arrived neither too early nor too late. The private room was already buzzing with excitement. Among the attendees were classmates who had just participated in the school anniversary and others who had come specifically for the reunion, totaling over twenty people. These were all friends Jiang Yao had good relationships with back in school.

The dishes weren’t all served yet, but the room was already loud and lively.

A tall, burly man with two glasses of liquor in hand pushed his way to Jiang Yao, shooing away a few classmates who were talking to him. “Boss, let’s drink.”

This man was Wu Jie, the vice-captain of Jiang Yao’s volleyball team, who habitually called him “boss.”

Jiang Yao tried to decline, “I have to drive later.”

Wu Jie insisted, “Just call a driver, it’s no big deal.”

After a moment of consideration, Jiang Yao rolled up his sleeves and clinked glasses with his vice-captain.

After all, Duan Zhuxian was dining downstairs. He could hitch a ride with Duan Zhuxian later, and if he ended up too drunk, there’d be someone to take care of him.

While drinking, Wu Jie asked, “Boss, when did you and Duan Zhuxian get together?”

This question immediately piqued the interest of everyone around them, who perked up their ears to listen.

Jiang Yao squinted his eyes. “Since when did you become so interested in gossip?”

If anyone in their class was most shocked by their marriage, it had to be Wu Jie. He had seen firsthand how Jiang Yao and Duan Zhuxian had fiercely competed against each other on the sports field. Could two people with such strong personalities really fall for each other?

Unrelenting, Wu Jie tried another approach, “So, what’s the nature of your marriage? Family alliance?”

Jiang Yao hummed in acknowledgment, “Something like that.”

Wu Jie looked enlightened, “That explains it.”

Someone else chimed in, “A business alliance doesn’t mean it’s not true love. I heard Duan Zhuxian made a heartfelt confession at the wedding. Too bad I didn’t get to see it.”

The implication was that Jiang Yao hadn’t invited him.

Jiang Yao said, “Most of the guest list was decided by the family. Next time, I’ll personally host a few tables and invite all of you over.”

The person laughed, “I’ll hold you to that, Jiang.”

Jiang Yao raised an eyebrow, “When have I ever not followed through on my word?”

The class president, who had been silent until now, suddenly spoke up, “I can’t imagine Duan Zhuxian making a heartfelt confession. He’s so cold and aloof. Can he really be that affectionate in front of so many people?”

Most people present hadn’t had much interaction with Duan Zhuxian. Beyond knowing that he came from a good family and was highly capable, their strongest impression of him was his aloofness—like ice and snow on a high peak, intimidating to even glance at.

Jiang Yao paused while picking up food, suddenly recalling Duan Zhuxian’s deeply affectionate gaze at their wedding.

It was indeed very heartfelt.

He had never seen such a breathtaking look, not even in the most famous romantic movies.

One male classmate, already tipsy despite having barely eaten, slurred, “I, I want to see Duan Zhuxian’s affectionate side too. Can we call him over to perform on the spot?”

The female classmate next to him rolled her eyes, “Who do you think you are, asking Duan Zhuxian to perform for you?” Then she turned to Jiang Yao with curiosity, “By the way, why didn’t you bring Duan Zhuxian along to the dinner?”

Jiang Yao replied, “He has his own class reunion to attend.”

The vice class president sighed with disappointment, “I was hoping to witness the century’s big reconciliation up close.”

Others chimed in, “Yeah, when I first heard you and Duan Zhuxian got married, I thought it was a joke.”

Jiang Yao took a sip of his drink, and a hint of a smile playing on his lips, “Is it that unbelievable?”

The vice class president nodded, “Not just unbelievable. It’s downright shocking. In our minds, you two weren’t even friends. You were competitors for three years. Who would have thought you’d suddenly announce your marriage out of nowhere?”

Everyone continued their lively discussion.

But Jiang Yao, the topic of the conversation, sat there clutching his wine glass, feeling as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over him.

Not even friends.

Yes, he and Duan Zhuxian weren’t even friends; everyone knew that.

A sudden heaviness settled in his chest. The heart that had been lifted high by everyone’s teasing suddenly plummeted back down, and the smile that had been on his face slowly faded.

After just a few drinks, he had almost forgotten the nature of his marriage with Duan Zhuxian.

He had almost taken it seriously, including Duan Zhuxian’s acted affection.

Just for a moment, Jiang Yao felt an odd pang. He forced a smile, clinking glasses with those extended towards him, but the smile no longer reached his eyes.

After a few rounds of drinks, someone staring at their phone exclaimed, “Wow, you guys have to see the alumni group. Duan Zhuxian really knows how to play the romantic game.”

The class president immediately took out his phone, and after looking, he clicked his tongue in surprise. “Now I believe Duan Zhuxian has a romantic side.”

Jiang Yao also took out his phone to look.

In the alumni group, someone had anonymously posted a candid photo.

The picture showed Duan Zhuxian kneeling on one knee, while Jiang Yao looked down, visibly shocked.

Jiang Yao tossed his phone aside, dismissing it, “He was just tying my shoelace. What are you all thinking?”

The man across from him chuckled, “I also want someone who would kneel down to tie my shoelace.”

His neighbor punched him playfully, “Keep dreaming. Do you even know your own worth?”

Jiang Yao finished his drink, his gaze drifting back to the photo on his phone. Unexpectedly, Duan Zhuxian’s blurred but serious profile burned into his eyes.

A sudden impulse surged within him.

He wanted to confront Duan Zhuxian directly, to ask why he did such ambiguous things. It was utterly baffling, with no sense of boundaries.

But considering they lived under the same roof, had been intimate, were married, and had seen each other at their worst, discussing “boundaries” now seemed pointless and hypocritical.

He suddenly found himself at a loss about what kind of relationship he and Duan Zhuxian had now.

It seemed like their relationship touched on many aspects but wasn’t clearly defined as any particular one.

Perhaps due to drinking too much, Jiang Yao’s head felt a bit dizzy, and his thoughts were chaotic. As the gathering neared its end, he excused himself early.

The night air had turned sharply cold. Standing in the stairwell, Jiang Yao let the wind mixed with snowflakes clear his mind.

Reaching the second floor, he straightened his jacket and knocked on the door of the room where Duan Zhuxian’s reunion was taking place.

“Jiang Yao?” The person who opened the door was a classmate of Duan Zhuxian, who looked surprised and pleased to see him. “What brings you here?”

Jiang Yao glanced inside but didn’t see Duan Zhuxian at the table. “Where’s Duan Zhuxian?”

The classmate seemed a bit puzzled. “He only stayed for a cup of tea and left about an hour ago. Didn’t he tell you?”

*

Outside the restaurant, Jiang Yao lit a cigarette.

After a few puffs, he pulled out his phone, opened his contacts, and hovered his thumb over Duan Zhuxian’s number for a long time. In the end, he didn’t call.

Since Duan Zhuxian had left without saying a word to him, he didn’t want to appear too eager.

All his initiative towards Duan Zhuxian had been exhausted during their high school years.

Jiang Yao pressed his temples, which were throbbing from the alcohol, with a rare hint of self-mockery on his lips.

In the subconscious realm he had always been afraid to confront, he secretly wished that Duan Zhuxian would take the initiative just once.

Even if it was just to shed all pretense and take a few steps towards him, allowing Jiang Yao to see a bit of Duan Zhuxian’s true feelings.

As the snowflakes fell, they gradually turned into larger snowflakes, fluttering down and blurring Jiang Yao’s vision as they melted on his eyelashes.

He raised his hand to wipe them away and was about to call a driver when he suddenly paused.

Through the swirling snow, he saw a tall, upright figure under a distant streetlamp, wearing a school uniform that was clearly a size too small, walking slowly towards him.