６☆ Date with Charlie - Time and Rose (时与玫瑰) | Light and Night 光与夜之恋
Disclaimer: Ever since Light and Night has turned to a 18+ rating, it looks like they are slowly exploring different sorts of boundaries but in this card Charlie's nips is the best you can see, so it's nothing nsfw (I think they can go wilder lmao) don't worry! hahaha :D
Flight announcement: Dear passengers, the flight has arrived Malpensa International Airport. The local time now is 1820 hours. We wish you a pleasant journey.
Accompanied by the voice announcement, the flight flew into the golden skyline, landing in north Europe like a feather.
You: Hello, Italy.
Through the side window, I'm welcomed by the sight of a foreign city. Seven hours disappeared without a trace in the slits of time, it feels like it has also hide itself into the wing fuel tanks to be a part of the "foreign land".
For the very first time, I went out alone to prepare for a fashion press conference. My feelings of anxiousness and joyous excitement has been interlocked as they bump in my heart.
I walked out the flight as I faced the sunset. My journey in Italy is about to begin.
From the corner of my eyes, I glanced towards the lounge chairs by accident, and a silhouette leaning languidly against it seems a little familiar.
You: ... Charlie? He's in Italy too?! But-- To do absolutely nothing while sitting outside the airport under the broad daylight. Looking so decadent, no matter what it doesn't look like it's Charlie's style, right? I probably have seen it wrongly, it's better to hurry up and head to the hotel.
Under the darkening sunset, I squeezed into the crowd of people in the airport.
Just when I was walking past the lounge, an illogically sexy male voice sounded from behind.
??: Dear miss, please wait for a moment.
In the midst of the seas of foreign languages, this sound in my mother tongue is clearly matching with a certain voice in my memories.
The clear and confident footsteps is gradually approaching me.
I turned around to look back, and the "decadent" silhouette is now standing before me.
He took off his glasses, and his pupils radiates in charming colors. But the odd thing is, his attitude doesn't seem to be intimate, but he's maintaining a polite social distance.
Charlie: Dear miss, may I ask if you have seen my fiancée?
You: Eh? I...
Charlie: My fiancée is on the same flight as yours, her height is very similar to yours, and uh, hairstyle too.
You: Wait a moment! I'm sorry for interrupting you, are you... Dr. Charlie?
Charlie: Do you know me? I didn't know I'm famous in Italy too. If you've seen my fiancée, please inform her that I will be obediently waiting here until she appears.
You: Then isn't your fiancée... me...?
Perhaps it's because I lacked confidence, my voice is gradually sounding more demure... Just when I was feeling embarrassed, Charlie have instead became calmer. He smiled, and seemed to look quite satisfied with my embarrassed expressions.
Charlie: Oh, you've finally admitted to it? Then why did you ignore me, fi-an-cée?
Charlie suddenly leaned close to my ear, his sighs of dissatisfaction from feeling wrong now rubs against my neck, as if it's a complaint sounded with hidden meaning.
You: Who would've expected to meet you here...
I held onto my neck and quietly moved sideways, attempting to use a complaining tone to cover up my guilty conscience.
Charlie: My fiancée, there's this great ancient saying that goes "With thousand searches for your beloved*, there is no stopping when fate's arrived.
*T/N: This is a made up poem by Charlie based off the original poem of "众里寻他千百度，蓦然回首，那人却在，灯火阑珊处" lmao it literally means "having searched for him hundreds and thousands of times in the crowd, suddenly you turn back, and he is there by the dim light."
Charlie: We have a chance encounter in the streets of Italy this time, and who knows the next time we meet would be in Guang Qi city's Civil Affairs Bureau*.
*T/N: In case if you're confused, it means to register marriage together lol
You: What nonsense! There isn't even such an ancient saying...
Charlie: If there isn't one then there isn't one, this wouldn't be a bad addition anyway, I also know modern poems too.
You: It can't be a made up poem of yours, right?
Charlie: It's my individual creation of long-length epic love poem, how can you call that a made up poem? You're fortunate enough to be my first reader today, let me read my poem out... Eh? Hey hey!
I pounced over Charlie's shoulders, and ruffled onto his hair vigorously.
A delicately-styled hair is now curling with stubborn hair*-- Just as expected, Charlie immediately became quiet.
*T/N: They used the word 'ahoge' in Chinese (originated from Japanese) which basically kinda means the hair that is so bloody stubbornly stupid that it won't lay flat lol.
You: It's still this trick that works the best against him.
I held onto the hair that looked like it's about to flatten, and just when I was about to keep my hands from it-- A sudden force held onto my wrist, and extinguished* my playful thoughts.
*T/N: The writer's word choice is genius here because Charlie was once a firefighting volunteer.
Charlie: Mm, trying to go against me?
Charlie used a little bit of force, and I moved forward without stabilizing my footsteps. On the next second, my head is already under his chin.
He leaned slightly, and the mild scent of Fougère* is now within close reach.
*Fougère means 'fern-like' in French and describes one of the main fragrance families that also include Floral, Oriental, Woody, Chypre, Gourmand, Fruity and Citrus.
Charlie: Lend me your eyes for a bit.
The voice by my ear is surprisingly deep. Our eyes met, and my vision is completely taken away by the sight of him.
Charlie frowned, and focused his gaze within my eyes, as if he's stripping the silk from cocoons, and wanting to find out all of my little secrets from within.
You: You...
My hair brushed past my forehead. It tickles. I'm not sure if it's his breath, or if it's the Mediterranean winds.
Charlie: Shh, let me look into it for a little more.
You: Huh? What?
Charlie: I didn't bring a mirror with me when I go out, so I can only tidy my hair like this.
Right after he spoke, Charlie immediately use "Vacuum*" to create a breeze, and flattened the messy hairs by his forehead.
*T/N: It's his Talent. Basically speculated to be able to control airflow, or taking away air from certain spaces.
You: So you've only been wanting to look into a mirror? Then switch on the front camera of your phone, that's way more useful than using my eyes alright!
Charlie: It can't be helped, who asked for my fiancée's eyes to be this bright?
You (blushing): Um, what are you talking about...
I covered my cheeks in reflex, wanting to refute after throwing him a couple of glances, but I can't find suitable wordings in the end-- The highest number of times I've felt lost in my life is definitely in the ever-changing patterns of Charlie's brain circuits...
You: Right, I haven't even asked you, why did you come to Italy too?
Charlie: Milan, is like my backyard. I can come as I like.
Raising a chin before his sentence ends, the dazzling golden sunset have embellished onto his features, and reflected the perfect corners like the David's statue*, as if it's a dramatic manner to validate his sayings.
*T/N: David is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, seen as a perfect symbol of Florence, as he captured the unwavering courage, unexpected strength, and historic perseverance that they saw in themselves.
You: Alright then... Then enjoy your trip, I still have some matters...
Charlie: Wait. Where are you going?
You: Back to the hotel of course.
Charlie paused, and acted as of nothing happened. But his gaze is hanging somewhere on me, and the fuzzy hairs are moving around disobediently.
Charlie: *coughs awkwardly* Bring me along.
You: What did you say?!
Charlie: Bring me back to the hotel.
You: I've only booked a room, with only a large bed!
Charlie: I can sleep on the floor.
You: Who- Who knows if you'd sleepwalk and climb onto my bed during midnight...
Charlie: You can tie me up if you aren't feeling reassured. My necktie is very sturdy.
Charlie extends an arm, and he scared me so much I walked a few steps backwards.
You: Charlie, tell me the truth... Are you hiding something that you can't disclose? Otherwise, why would you...
Charlie let out a long sigh. It seems like he had a very long internal battle.
Charlie: *sigh* It's not what you think. I'm not the kind of man that works out of line.
He looked around the surroundings, and after making sure that there aren't anyone around, he leaned closer to my ear with a hand clenched while covering his lower face.
Charlie: I ran out of money.
You: Huh?
I immediately raised my head, and almost bumped into his chin.
You: Do you look like you're broke?
I examined him with full of doubt, from top to bottom, left to right-- A delicate luxury windbreaker, an extravagant silk shirt, even the diamonds embellished at the rims of his sunglasses are gleaming in a light that screams "rich".
Charlie: I'm robbed, my fiancée. Right now, I'm out at the elbows.
Hearing that, only then I noticed that Charlie has indeed looked a lot more plain than usual-- besides his sunglasses, all of his other luxurious accessories aren't present.
It's still considered normal to a normal human being. But to Charlie, this isn't any different from being naked.
You: Italy's robbers would indeed not have mercy on a walking vault that is as "blatantly showy"...
Charlie: My fiancée, I'm not trying to emotionally blackmail you. But would you bear to see me sleeping in the streets?
You: Sigh, of course I...
Charlie: You can't bear to. I knew it. My fiancée is always sharp-tongued yet kind-hearted.
Charlie raises a brow, and an understanding smile surfaced from his lips.
Charlie: But you will not have a loss if you take me in. For expenses that I should be shouldering, I will repay them all to you with 40% of additional interest when this all ends.
You: This sounds a little familiar... You can't be trying to say that there will be people queueing to take you in within this world*, right?
*T/N: It can't be helped, this dude literally told her that there are many queueing up wanting to marry him lol.
Charlie: You can say so. But whether they wanted to do it is a matter, and whether I would agree to it is yet another matter. For such an opportunity in short supply, I'm only leaving to my fiancée alone, wanna consider it?
You: Alright, then come with me.
Hearing this, Charlie suddenly became a whole lot more energetic, and even his eyes are overflowing with dazzling joy.
Charlie: To agree on it so quickly, looks like you've been waiting for this opportunity for a long time, no?
Now that I think of it, I've not tried to ask for help from the police, and I didn't contact my friends... And I almost immediately chose to take him in, as if it's really a "rare and precious" opportunity.
You: Not good, this response is anything but reassuring.
Just when I was muttering while stunning on my foot, Charlie poked my strained fingers that have reddened, gesturing me to give him my luggage. I quickly held him by his arm--
You: Charlie, there's one thing that I have to be very clear with you. I am not eyeing on your interest when I agreed to take you in.
I looked right into his eyes, hoping that he will understand my thoughts.
Charlie took over the luggage, curving his lips up, and pulled me closer to separate me from the flow of people by my side.
Charlie: Of course I know, you're eyeing on me. You don't have to worry that I'll understand you wrongly, the greatest point of me is to have self-conscience. Alright, let's go. Taxi!
Arriving the hotel, Charlie walked towards the reception like he's familiar with the place, and leaning sideways as he chit-chatted with the male receptionist.
Charlie: Room number 2307, my fiancée booked it.
You: When did he start learning Italian...
Charlie in distant turned around as if he has sensed my question, and the room key twirled a cycle around his fingertip.
You: This person seems to be always doing things with greater ease than what I've imagined.
With Charlie being here, the choppy and cumbersome communication became smooth right away. Not long after, I've completed all of the procedures, and collapsed onto the large bed.
Charlie followed me into the room. The luggage rolled over the floor, and with a click, the room is locked.
Charlie: I'll sleep over there tonight.
He pointed at the sofa at the corner of the room. Compared to the wide goose down bed, the narrow sofa looked rather miserable.
You: It's so tiny, your waist would probably be sore if you sleep on it.
Charlie: Are you inviting me to...?
You: That's not it! I'm saying, I'm smaller in size...
Charlie: No need. The bed in the hospital duty room is this big too, I'm more than used to it.
Charlie skillfully took out my sparrow pillow* from my luggage, and threw it into my arms.
*T/N: Charlie adopted a sparrow from the zoo in this date. Her name is Sherry.
Charlie: Rest early, I won't disturb you. Aren't you going to participate the fashion press conference tomorrow?
You: How did you know...
I didn't receive a reply from Charlie. With all the traveling, I'm completely stuck with sleepiness, and fell into the dreamlands in a blur.
I woke up from my dreams early in the morning.
In a blur, the person sleeping beside my pillow is just within an arm's reach, and his fluffy hair is brushing right before my forehead.
Everything are so quiet like the illusions of Shangri-La, and just when I was about to continue sleeping again--
You: Wait up!
When did Charlie move the sofa to the bedside?!
He said he won't "disturb" me, but his fingers still "go back again his words" as it grabs onto the edge of the bed.
Without the space by the bedside, Charlie is almost sleeping in a fetus position as he roll himself up while leaning beside me.
Charlie: Mm... You're awake?
His sleepiness still stuck in the voice of him just waking up. He's really sleeping very lightly, with merely a few tiny moves, it's enough to wake him up.
I quickly closed my eyes, and I think it's probably the most suitable choice at the moment.
Charlie: Hmph, still pretending to sleep? It's already 8AM.
You: What time did you say?!
I widened my eyes in shock, and faced right into the pair of eyes that are seemingly smiling.
Charlie: 8AM, fiancée.
You: Oh shoot, I'm going to be late!
I quickly rolled down from the bed, and dressed up in a rush, then left after saying "ask the receptionist to contact me if anything happens" to him.
As soon as I arrived the event venue, I immediately joined into the intensive preparation works.
Because of the tight schedule, and there are many cumbersome works, everyone agreed to wait for orders at the venue.
Throughout the whole night, I've been bustling at the backstage. But unsure of the reason, even if I'm still busy, the silhouette of the person sleeping sideways on the sofa with the pair of eyes in the morning kept resurfacing in my mind.
It's already noon of the following day when my work ends. Where should I go next?
[Choice: Work has ended, where should I go?]
Calling: To nearby tourist spots
Listening: Participate celebratory banquet
Heartthrob (1): Head straight back to the hotel
Heartthrob (2): Chat with hobbyist
[Choice: Do Nothing]
Walking out from the main entrance, I'm already completely exhausted from tortures of work.
I originally thought the business trip to Italy would help me relax, but I've received a great slap on the face by reality.
Thankfully, there's someone that has been waiting for me at the place I return to.
As long as I can stay by his side, everything will be very worth it.
[Choice: Calling: To nearby tourist spots]
Walking out from the event venue, looks like it's still early.
Milan city in daylight is bustling with people, and this famous city is full of liveliness. Everything here are filling me with joy.
Now that I remembered it, Charlie mentioned this--
Charlie: The streets not far away from the event venue is where the largest gothic church of Milan is located at. If you coax me a little, I wouldn't mind to accompany you for a visit.
Although Charlie is not by my side right now, but it's such a rare chance, so I decided to pay a visit over there.
Following the signs of the GPS, I've finally arrived the church.
Just when I was about to enter, I noticed a seemingly familiar silhouette squatting at the other side of the street-- Charlie's holding a camera, and seemingly focusing it towards the church's direction.
You: He's actually here too.... Then how about asking him to come along too?
I cleared my throat, and called for him...
[Call him however you like here by holding the button, there are three different endings for this segment, all translated below]
[Speak gibberish]
Perhaps it's because the sounds of people on this bustling street is too noisy, Charlie didn't hear me calling for him.
Until I've walked past the street, he has finally took notice of me.
Charlie: I knew you'd be here. You're still unable to forget your fiancé's suggestions of tourist spots, huh...
You: I'm thinking that you're the one that wanted to have a chance encounter with me here!
A suspicious tint of redness surfaced from Charlie's cheeks. He clenched his fists and let out a few light, dry coughs.
Charlie: Ahem ahem, what are you saying? I'm only here to take photos along the way. In order to prove my innocence, I'll allow you to enjoy my photography works.
As he speaks, Charlie impatiently showed me the scenery photos in his camera.
I didn't expect for this fella to have some talent in capturing beautiful scenery, his photo composition, colors, and exposures are looking quite lively.
As I enjoy looking at the photographs, the time has passed quickly, and much time has already passed.
Until next time, I have to make Charlie to take portraits for me.
[Call his name]
Hearing my voice, Charlie quickly raised his head and searched around.
You: I'm here.
Charlie: Wait for me to come over.
Not long after, Charlie is now standing before me.
I looked at the camera in Charlie's hand, and I can't help myself but to ask the question that has been circling around my heart.
You: I saw you taking photos earlier. What sceneries were you taking pictures of? Or... whose photos were you taking?
My heart is quietly anticipating for something.
Charlie: I didn't thought you'd be this interested in me?
Charlie's lips curved upwards, smiling triumphantly.
Charlie: Then I'll reluctantly show them to you, since you're my fiancée after all.
I took over the camera, and upon looking--
The photos in the gallery are numerous selfies of Charlie, of him standing, sitting, with sunglasses, with eyes closed...
There are no other photos!
You: You were taking selfies?!
Charlie: Of course, what else would I be doing? Is there a prettier scenery than I am? This magnificent street is just nice enough to be my backdrop.
You: ... Fine. I thought...
Charlie: What did you expect it to be? It's only the time for my fiancée coming up next. Let's go, I'll bring you into the church to take a full set of honeymoon photos, I'm still waiting to post them to my timeline.
So, it's not that he didn't think of me.
The anticipation in my heart is completely filled once again, and the person that fulfills my anticipation, is him.
[Call him by his nickname]
Charlie who was squatting by the roadside immediately raised his head upon hearing my voice.
Separated by the busy street, our gazes met from afar.
You: Charlie, wait for me to head over there!
I ran as I go past the crowd, dashing towards the zebra crossing at the corner of the street.
Charlie: Wait right there, I'll go over.
But I didn't want to wait. Perhaps it's because I've had a whole night's tiring work, right now, I really wanted to see him, and I wanted to run towards him.
However, when I've arrived the corner of the street, the red light at the zebra crossing has lit up.
I stared at the red-numbered seconds of countdown, only to feel the time in traffic seemed to have a transformative spell casted upon it, the waiting time became particularly long.
Sixty seconds has finally ended, the signal light turned green, yet my footsteps were interrupted--
Charlie: Fiancée, I've arrived earlier than you do.
I turned around in joy, and Charlie's standing only a few steps away.
In the midst of the crowd, he smiled triumphantly.
I ran towards him in hurried steps and stood before him.
You: It feels like I have not seen you for a very long time!
Charlie: We have only not seen each other for a single day and you've already missed me this much? Sigh, I knew it, the charms of fiancé...
You: Yeah, I really missed you!
Before Charlie could finish his sentence, I can no longer hold back from wanting to tell him all of my feelings.
Charlie: Uh, wh- what did you say...?
Charlie stood sideways in an unnoticeable manner, and his ears are slightly tinted with redness.
I walked towards him, and looked at his sudden eyes that gleamed.
You: I said, work was really tiring, I really missed you.
Charlie (sounding flustered): Um...
You: Did you hear me?
Charlie: ... I heard you.
I smiled cheekily as I observed Charlie's various sorts of embarrassed look, and I find him particularly interesting.
Suddenly, I noticed the camera in his hands.
You: What kind of photos were you taking here?
Charlie: Nothing much, I only simply took some photos.
Charlie startled, and clenched onto the camera in his hands tighter, so alert that it seemed a little abnormal.
You: Can you show it to me? Let me enjoy the works of the great photographer Charlie, and see what kind of breathtaking scenery was taken?
Charlie: No.
He declined so straightforwardly, and made me completely surprised.
You: Did you took a photo that you can't show to people?
Charlie: It's all my handsome selfies. If you wanted to see, just raise your head and you can see a Live3D version of it.
You: Really?
I leaned closer to him, only to hear a beeping sound-- Charlie's polaroid camera is printing out a photo.
On the photo that has not completely shown its colors, a girl's standing right before the church, with a half-opened map in her hands.
You: You were secretly taking photos of me?
Charlie: ... It wasn't done secretly. You've already said that you wanted to come to the church, I'm only waiting for you at the entrance.
Charlie quickly kept the photo, worried that it'd be overly exposed.
Charlie: This photo isn't the final product yet, I still needed to scan it and do some retouches.
You: What?! You know how to retouch photographs?
Charlie: Is that very surprising? This is just one of the negligible skills among my countless talents. Also, I'm posting my travels with my fiancée onto the timeline, how can I only post a solo photo? I'm photoshopping myself there.
You: Hahahaha!
Charlie: What are you laughing at?
You: I'm laughing at you for being so troublesome. If you wanted a photo together, isn't it easier to take one together?
Charlie: What...?
Before Charlie could respond to anything, I took the camera from his hand, leaned on his shoulder, and pressed the shutter.
"Click"-- The camera took a photo.
You: Isn't this easy enough?
I returned the camera to him, and Charlie was quiet for a very long time.
You: What's wrong?
Charlie: ... I was thinking, my looks earlier didn't look calm enough, and not handsome enough. Let's take another one.
I picked up the camera helplessly, and took another photo.
Charlie: Hair's a little messy.
You: ... Alright, I understood.
Charlie: Your smile isn't dazzling enough, it's a critical problem, one more!
You: Okay.
Charlie: The composition is a little off, not perfect enough.
You: Okay...
After all the hassles, the sun is starting to gradually set.
Charlie is now with tens of photos of us together in different postures, and returned fruitfully.
Charlie: There'll be at least 300 likes on my timeline tomorrow. Sigh, poor friends of mine on Penguin*, you'll all be eclipsed by me again.
His tone is still showy and confident, yet it has gradually became part of my daily life.
With him by my side, tiredness is now very far away from me.
[Choice: Listening: Participate celebratory banquet]
After the activity ends, I received an invitation to participate the celebratory banquet on that night.
Under the lively atmosphere, I've unknowingly drink so much that I'm slightly drunk.
There's still some warmth lingering in the Italian winds, gradually warming up my consciousness after drinking, as if the night breezes in the early autumns have also been smoked with the scents of wine.
You: Ouch!
My footsteps staggered after drinking, and my narrow heels have stepped onto a pebble when I descended the staircase, and I almost tripped.
The sense of drunkenness has arrived late. Accompanied by the heating skins, it began spreading into my head. I simply just squatted down with how drunk I felt, and started to curse in a low voice at the stone.
You: Naughty, why are you Italian pebbles this naughty?! You knew I've had alcohol and yet you still blocked my path at the entrance, did you want to watch me trip?!
Unsure how long has passed, the pebble's features suddenly stopped looking clear, a "giant creature" has covered the light projections from the streetlights.
??: Let me see, whose fiancée is being drunk crazy here?
The "giant creature" squats down, and leveled his gaze with mine.
??: Oh, looks like it's mine.
Through the blurriness from being drunk, I recognized Charlie's dark purple-colored eyes.
Charlie: The Italian pebbles are so naughty, why would you still be willing to talk to it? I've been waiting for you in the room for so long, won't you be willing to come back to accompany me?
You: I drank alcohol.
I pillowed a side of my face onto the arm, childishly wanting to use that arm to remove the heat on my face.
Charlie: Mm, you've drunk alcohol, then what?
I lifted my gaze, and fixed my gaze towards him, talking to him in a stubborn tone that hints an act of angriness.
You: Didn't you despise the smell of alcohol?
Charlie: *chuckles* Even if I hate the smell of alcohol, I don't hate you, you know.
Charlie holds me as if he's coaxing me, and slowly helped me up from the floor. His soft strands of hair have unintentionally brushed past my neck.
Charlie: Here, go home with your fiancé. Otherwise I'd really start to hate you.
In a blur, Charlie brought me to the roadside. An old bicycle is parked under the stairs.
You: Where... did the bicycle come from?
Charlie: I borrowed it from the hotel receptionist. Bear with it a little, funds are tight now, I'll fetch you with an RV when we're back.
You: Um, no need. It's only special to go home this way.
Charlie: Mm, then sit well, we'll go home.
Charlie's scent surrounded me, the unintentional contact of the limbs raises a charming warmth. Like the evaporation of the water vapors, the residual alcohol in the body becomes increasingly intense.
I only remembered, that my head is feeling dizzy, and Charlie's rich voice brushed past my ears.
[A voice clip will be played here]
Please, fiancée.
Of course there must be some sense of ceremony. Although it's a pity that there's no passenger's seat today...
But my back seat too, is very much precious as well.
Have I offered a ride for others before? Even if I dare to offer them a ride, would they be daring enough to ride on it?
*grunting sounds* Um, don't sit astride, it's dangerous.
If the dress' hem is torn off, your destitute fiancé is incapable of buying you a new one right now.
Be a good girl and come down, alright?
*bicycle bell ringing voices*
It's not that I'm not letting you to have a ride, *chuckles* why are you throwing a tantrum?
Drunk crazy, little madwoman.
Then how about we exchange a condition?
You listen to me once, and I'll be completely at your service when we're back, anything is possible.
I'm not lying to you, do I look like a dishonest person that goes back on my words?
First sit sideways.
Mm, after sitting well you'll receive a "coupon of love to use your fiancé in anyway you wish".
Be careful! Don't slip off.
Hey, isn't holding my waist going to do just fine?
You're quite the brave one at usual times, why are you so incomprehensible in feelings at such crucial times?
No, I didn't say anything.
Mm, you can go harder, otherwise it wouldn't be safe.
What are you afraid of? You won't break me by hugging me, no?
I've trained my cores for 50 minutes yesterday, if you aren't holding me tighter, you'll be at a big loss.
*slapping sounds on his abdomen*
Hey hey, that's domestic violence.
Why? Strong and fit, rational, handsome, could these be my own fault?
Hmph. I'll demerit you once. Once you're sober, we'll settle the debts.
Alright, sit tight.
I- I'm not shaky, it has been very long since I rode a bicycle, I'm not too familiar with it.
How long has it been? About... 28 years*.
*T/N: Charlie is 28.
Is riding a bicycle very difficult? I just never happened to ride outdoors...
The stationary bicycles in the gym are my forte.
*sigh* See, isn't it stable now?
How is it? Your fiancé's techniques aren't bad, right? Comprehending by analogy, and very savvy.
Tsk, how about you respond for once...
... So you've fallen asleep.
Sleep well then, since the time is still long after you wake up.
You've worked hard for today.
[Choice: Heartthrob (1): Head straight back to the hotel]
As soon as the activity ended, I headed straight back to the hotel.
Opening the door of room 2307, the room is now completely quiet.
The sofa by the bed is already moved back to the original spot, and the light dents that were slept on have returned to how it originally was.
You: Charlie? Are you there?
There's no passionate welcomes, and no complaints that sounded as if he was wronged. The only thing that responded to me, was only the quiet sunlight of the afternoon.
You: He probably has left. Sigh, as expected of the international black gold credit card owner, the card replacement was attended to so quickly.
Sitting back onto the goose down bed, I suddenly felt this place has became empty.
The dust fluttering in the room is buried under the dazzling lights, and every obscure emotions hiding in the corners became all visible.
Only then, I've noticed that the Italy under the sunny skies is this quiet too.
You: It's indeed time to go after the problem is solved. It's quite normal.
I leaned sideways, and buried my face into the sparrow pillow, muttering to myself.
You (teary-eyed): But I... really am not used to parting without goodbyes, especially when this person is Charlie.
It turns out that even I didn't realize it myself. Charlie has already taken such a spot in my heart, that even a goodbye will trouble me so much.
Just when my mind is all in a mess, "knock knock knock"-- A light knock can be heard from the windows. Two heavy knocks, following by a lighter knock.
You: !
My heart skipped a beat-- Two heavy knocks that follows by a lighter knock, it's how Charlie knocks the door.
A bird that is in chestnut and black stripes is flapping its wings, its narrow and long beak hurriedly pecked the window frame.
You: I'm coming, I'm coming, baby. Don't break the windows!
The bird rubbed against the windowsill, and threw a gold-bordered postcard into my arms, then plopped onto the wooden desk, looking at me with a glance that is filled with wrath-- It's clear enough to know who wrote the postcard.
I quickly turned the postcard over, the familiar kindergarten-like cursive is still leaping with a lively warmth.
Charlie (Postcard): Dear fiancée, hurry yourself to the rooftop terrace, I've prepared a gift for you. Love, Charlie.
I held onto the postcard, leaning on the bed, and read it repetitive for tens of times.
It's not enough. I rolled on the bed again.
Bird: Cuckoo.
Hearing the bird's hushing, I returned to my senses from the lost and recovered sweetness, and remembered that the poor little messenger that was still tired on the table.
I opened the windows for it, and soothed out its beautiful feathers as a form of gratitude.
You: Thank you, woodpecker.
The bird lifted its head arrogantly, and pecked twice on the back of the postcard in dissatisfaction.
It turns out that there's a row of scribbled handwriting printed there--
Charlie (Postcard): It's a hoopoe, not a woodpecker. I knew you'd misidentify it, dummy fiancée.
*bird flies away
You: ......
Although I'm really tired today, but I still pressed the button to the rooftop.
The time in the elevator feels just as long as the pause before a lover's kiss.
You: I wonder what kind of gift he has prepared for me...
I rubbed my cheeks in attempts of flattening my lips that are curving up, but my smile still instinctively returned to my lips.
Ding-- The elevator has arrived the top floor, and the door gradually opened.
However, seeing the scene that welcomed me behind the doors, my smile paused on my face--
??: I've been waiting for you. Welcome back, fiancée.
Right now, Charlie is leaning against the walls of a mosaic European styled bathtub. A rose is gently held at his fingertips.
Charlie lowered his gaze, and lightly sniffed at the flower crown. The stamen moved slightly, and my neck felt just as ticklish.
Charlie: Do you like this gift?
He raised his gaze as he smiled, the pair of pupils surrounded in the mists have instead looked even sharper in the blur.
The vapor that evaporated attached onto the tender rose petals, and formed water droplets over the curves and dents of his body, looking like they are about to roll down.
The colors of the rose petals has almost melted into the heating mist.
Among the the dense bubble bath, there are also a flock of toy ducks floating on it.
You: Charlie, you...
My heart has been beating vigorously, it's almost as if it's about to leap out from my throat. I'm not sure if it's a revenge from my body against be for pulling an all-nighter, or if it's from a certain image that I'm seeing right now.
You: Wh- what are you doing?!
Charlie: Can't you see it? I'm taking a bath, preparing to be at your service.
You (flustered): Ah?! Service... I don't need any sort of service...
Charlie: Didn't you pull off an all-nighter? If I weren't here for you, you'd definitely plan to sleep for the rest of the day, right?
You: Well that's not wrong... But only to catch up on sleep after pulling an all-nighter can help me to quickly return to my normal life.
Charlie: No, No, No, this will actually disrupt your regular schedule, if you really wanted to sleep, then try to only take naps. It's a kind reminder from Dr. Zha, it'll be very helpful to relief fatigue if you enjoy professional services appropriately.
You: Would your kind of... "professional service" really able to relief fatigue? Why do I find it a little difficult...
Charlie: You can't be telling me that you can't hold yourself back now, right?
You: How could that be?! I'm a designer... I've seen much.
Charlie: Oh, you've seen much.
*water dripping sound*
Charlie drooped his head, strong arms supported against the bathtub walls, and acted like he's about to stand up.
You: Ah---!!
*more water dripping sound*
I immediately turned around and covered my burning cheeks. The sounds of waters can be heard from behind, as if it's a dangerous warning, telling me that everything uncontrollable is now speeding towards the unknown.
Charlie: Why are you facing the walls, fiancée? Since you've seen so much, how about turning around and compare it? Let me see how many first places I can get.
The heat lingers and wafted as Charlie steps out from the shallow waters, and casually approached me from the back. He trapped me between the walls and his tall figure, there's nowhere for me to escape in this narrow and stuffy space.
The heat in close reach has baked my cheeks so much, that I suddenly opened my eyes and went speechless as I looked at the white walls. My fingers subconsciously started to tap on my phone screen. The screen went on, off, on, off...
Charlie: Sigh... I'm standing right here, and you actually had the thoughts of looking at other things. How sad you've made me to be.
Charlie's long arms circled before me, slender hands pressed onto the key to close the phone display, and coaxed me as he took my phone away form my hands.
Charlie: Don't search anymore. It's not illegal to do this in Italy.
You (flustered): What's not illegal? You can't possibly be also providing law-advising services right?!
Charlie: I'm a good, law-abiding citizen. Turn around if you don't believe in me.
You: Fine, I'll look! What's there to be afraid of?!
My eagerness to win is now enticed. I struggled out from his arm, and turned around while half-covering my eyes.
Through the slits between my fingers, Charlie has already became well-dressed, and is standing right there with full of his usual suave. There's not a single bit of awkward signs of him just coming out from a shower.
You: As expected of a doctor, such speed...
Charlie: Why do I think you're a little disappointed? So you still find me better-looking earlier, right?
You: ......
Charlie: Why did you stop talking?
??: Quack, fiancée!
The ambiguously romantic atmosphere earlier immediately stopped. I looked around, but there wasn't anything abnormal.
You: Did I hear wrongly...? Did someone call me?
Charlie: You didn't hear wrongly.
Charlie: This is my gift to you, an intelligent duckling.
Charlie took a toy duck from the bubble bath, and handed it to me.
Charlie: Collaborated with the top designers of Italy, with all details fully made by hand, fulfilling all of your fantasies towards ducks. Of course, these aren't the only features.
He pinched the side button of the toy duck, and gave it a light squeeze.
Duck: Quack, fiancée. You're finally back, I've been waiting.
Despite having myself mentally prepared, but as soon as I heard the duck speaking in Charlie's tone, I still feel internally startled.
But Charlie is very much indifferent. He took out the second duck, and gave it a squeeze.
Duck: Quack, fiancée, are you tired? Do you want to experience my massage techniques?
You: Pfft, there's even a practical service. Can you really do it?
Charlie: Of course I can.
Charlie took out the third duck, and raised a brow cheekily.
Duck: Quack, fiancée, are you hungry? Although I don't have money, but I can use elegant Italian to order food for you.
You: Mhm mhm, very attentive.
As if he's now feeling encouraged, Charlie has bloomed in smiles, and looked at me with an even more passionate gaze.
Duck: Quack, fiancée, only the perfect person can set a perfect bed for you.
You: Wait a second, why does it sound a little wrong?
Duck: Quack, fiancée, you've been playing hard to get...
The voice clips are heading towards a weird direction, I quickly snatched the duck, and interrupt his product display session.
With a bunch of ducks in my arms, I'm only hearing the voices of "fiancée" ringing in my head, just like a strong spell.
You: Is this the "service" that you're providing me?
Charlie: That's right. You can pick one of the services from any of these ducks as you wish. Of course, I wouldn't mind if you choose them all too.
Charlie leaned closer, and the warm vapors from him made me recall the discordant imaginations in my head, that I get so scared I started to shake my head.
You: No no no, one... one is enough!
I quickly picked a duck as I spoke, then gave it a squeeze.
Duck: Quack, fiancée, congratulations, you've received a top-class personalized shoulder and neck massage with a luxurious hair wash service.
You (blushing): Massage...
Charlie: Why are you looking mournful? Not satisfied with the gift?
I quickly shook my head, and only then Charlie chuckled softly.
Charlie: Then you're satisfied.
I nodded in embarrassment. The duck in my hand has two patches of blush on its cheeks, and the little yellow head is drooping low under Charlie's fingertips.
In an instant, I can feel myself having my emotions synced with a duck.
You; Aren't you going to massage and wash my hair? Let's start.
Charlie gestured an invitation to me, and pushed open the door located at a corner. A wide, rice white-colored massage chair appeared before me.
I leaned on the massage chair, and met Charlie's smiling eyes as soon as I lift my head.
Worried that he'd say something, I quickly turned away from his gaze, waiting for him to come closer to my neck, and slowly lower the massage chair.
The temperature of the waters is just perfect, brushing over my scalp, and comforted the faint headaches.
Charlie: Is this strength alright?
You: Yeah, not bad.
A scent that seeps into my heart has wafted to the tip of my nose.
You: Did you smell something? It seems to be...
Charlie: Noticed it? It's the aromatherapy that I've specially prepared for you. It's a collection of natural flowers and fruits from the Tuscan hills, the almond vanilla in the middle will remind you of melted gelato.
You: There's also a refreshing scent of daisies...
Charlie: Close your eyes. Italy is now by your side.
I took a deep breath, allowing the sweet scent to enter me, and travel all over me.
At that moment, I can feel myself to have my feet stepping on the never-melting snows on the tall mountains, as if I'm running on the mottled, century-old stone steps, or to be seated in a creaking gondola...
I opened my eyes slightly, and my gaze went towards Charlie's forehead. The disobedient hairs seemed to be moving along his serious movements.
You: Charlie, how long more will you be staying in Italy?
Charlie: I'll stay as long as you do. Why, missing me before even leaving?
He's focused on the matter in his hands, and there's a rare-to-be-seen gentleness from his expressions.
It feels like I can see the pure white snows through his clear eyes, seeing a ray of sunlight pouring onto the stone steps, and I saw the azure blue rivers and the water flowing under the oars.
There's not a moment like this that I find Italy to be so adorable, even if it's just a hurried and short stay.
Is it because of the person before me? -- I think that's probably the case.
Charlie: If you wanted to wash your hair and have massages everyday, it's not that I can't do that for you either.
You: Serious talk now, I'll be going back a few days later, so after all the calculations, I only have a day and a half left. I've been here a few times during university, but it wasn't any fun. I have been wanting to go to Alberobello, and I heard that it's all white stone huts with cone-shaped rooftops. Have you been there?
Charlie: Of course.
You: Is it... as beautiful as I've imagined?
Charlie: Indeed, they have a pretty sturdy culture too. I stayed there for a night, and my wallet is gone on the next day.
You: Pfft... Why are you always losing your wallet?
Charlie's lips twitched, and looked a little unnatural.
Charlie: Ahem ahem, my wallet was found very quickly back then.
You: Did you capture the thief?
Charlie: Of course not, I only noticed that my wallet was missing when I was about to pay. It's the homestay's owner that retrieved it for me.
You: The locals there are pretty righteous huh.
Charlie: Only then I knew that the owner's ancestors are the ones that petitioned to the royal families many years ago. It's also because of him, that this town is freed from the suppression of their feudal lord.
Speaking of these, there's an unconcealed admiration and yearning that surfaced from his face.
Charlie: He told me, Alberobello will not allow the good people to be bullied.
You: That's great.
Charlie: I like people like these. So, I invested in the homestay.
I stunned, and can't help but to smile. It's very much like Charlie's behavior indeed.
Charlie: Boss lady, if you wanted to go, you can go there anytime.
You (flustered): What boss lady...
I twisted the little butt of the duck as I made it to imitate a duck's swimming posture, and raised it above my head.
You: Quack, Mr. Zha, please mind your language.
Charlie: Did I say anything wrong? You're my fiancée, so of course you're the boss lady over there.
You: You... Forget it, focus on washing the hair already!
I closed my eyes. Perhaps it's because of the soothing waters, that my thoughts are gradually clearing up.
Suddenly a question that has been ignored for a long time entered my mind.
You: Wait a minute! Where did you get the money to buy aromatherapy and ducks?
Charlie: ... Credit card.
You: Didn't all of your credit cards got robbed?
Charlie: Your card.
You: My card? -- MY CARD!!
Charlie: I told you I'll return it to you. I'm already detained here, what's more to be afraid of? Could the son of one of the four richest tycoons be owing you money? If you are still worrying about it, I'm willing to pay the debts with my body.
You (pouting): What advantage do you have that you'd pay the debts with your body?
Charlie slightly opened his top, hinting the lines of muscle hidden under it.
Charlie: Tell me again on what I'm lacking?
You: You don't have a legal advantage!
I opened my phone in a blur, and let out death stares at the card transaction records. In a trance, the time seemed to have messed up, and I can no longer differentiate the directions.
"Fully handmade with luxury", "Top-class goose down"-- The depressing words have became the last string of darkness that covered the skies.
You: Save me...
Charlie: Don't faint! I'm still waiting to repay the debts with my body!
I closed my eyes, and fell into a warm embrace.
The dazzling afternoon sunlight passes through my eyelids, even the tightly-shut eyelids is haloing a comfortable warmth.
Of course I'd believe in Charlie. No matter to me, or to him, the price tag is just a number.
It's just that the atmosphere right now is just perfect, so why don't I enjoy this moment?
Dear time, please pass a little more slower.
[Choice: Heartthrob (2): Chat with hobbyist]
After the fashion conference ended, it's still very much crowded at the live venue.
Elaine from the my group stood by the entrance, and bid farewell with me with full of unwillingness to part. Before I leave, she enthusiastically invited me to be a guest at her hometown in Sicily island.
Elaine: I opened a hats shop at the church plaza, you're welcome to drop by anytime.
You: I'd really love to go, it's just that... Honestly speaking, I actually brought a "big buddha"* with me in this trip to Italy.
Elaine: Don't worry, Sicily island is an island full of tolerance. Whether it's Muslims, Christians, or Buddhists, all of them can find their place in Sicily island.
*T/N: Someone extremely troublesome, meticulous, and requires a lot of care. Elaine seemed to have misunderstood what MC meant lol.
You: Then that's great to know.
Just like this, Charlie and I have ventured into a journey in Sicily island.
According to Elaine's recommended travel plan, we should've been eating brioche an hour ago. But instead, the current situation right now is--
You: Charlie, this is already the 187th hat that you're picking.
Charlie: No, it's the 188th.
Charlie put on the hat, gaze traveling between me and the mirror, and shook his head again.
Charlie: *disapproval noises* It doesn't match.
I smiled apologetically towards Elaine, and explained Charlie's unique sense to her for the 39th time.
Looking at Charlie picking up the 189th hat, I walked behind him and quietly tugged the corner of his shirt.
You: This is a traditional Coppola cap shop, there isn't a hat of the sort of style that you usually wear.
Charlie: That sort of style?
You: It's the kind that is grandiose... where grandiose and subtlety, luxury with simplicity would coexist... a perfect style.
Charlie: Mhm.
He poked at the shirt on his chest, and let out a chuckle from his nose.
You: Oh, so you've been looking for a hat that can match your shirt!
I turned around to pick one for him, but Charlie stopped me with a smile. His clear finger joints still covered before his chest.
Charlie: No, I'm asking you, where did your conscience go?
You: What do you mean?
Charlie: When you were studying designing, did your textbooks actually teach you about hats with "perfect style"?
My cheeks flustered, and just when I wanted to defend myself, Charlie interrupted me.
Charlie: Fiancée, I originally thought you'd at least be a little more careful in professionalism, I didn't expect you'd be this proficient in sprouting nonsense.
You: ... That's not it! It's humor, a way of exaggeration, it's a form of art!
Of course Charlie wouldn't buy it. He patted my shoulder as if he's consoling me.
Charlie: It's fine, don't blame yourself. I'll not let your leader and colleagues to know such intimate talks between us.
You: ... Alright then. Then don't you dare to hide your posts from me on your timeline and post nonsense.
An instant of guilty conscience flashed before his eyes, and let out a couple of untimely coughs.
Charlie: Ahem ahem, don't think nonsense, choose the hat.
I walked towards the rack of men's hat, there are many Coppola hats of various colors being displayed here.
You: Dr. Zha, what kind of pattern do you want? I'll choose for you together.
After looking across rows of hat racks, my gaze suddenly stopped at the top layer of a wooden hat rack, towards a flat cap embellished with golden borders.
You: Charlie, look at that! It's just like it's written with your name on it!
I looked at it with full of anticipation, but I didn't expect Charlie to still shake his head.
You: This is already the 190th hat...
Charlie: Actually these hats aren't having much differences to me. If hats have feelings, you can probably use your talent to feel and see how many hats here are fighting to write my name on them.
You: Then why are you so picky?!
Charlie: Because, it doesn't match my fiancée.
The unexpected reply made me subconsciously stunned, and my cheeks are slightly heating up.
You: No wonder there was a certain person that has been secretly looking at me when he was trying on hats...
Elaine, who's standing by the side burst out in laughter. She took out a pair of delicate hats of the same color from the depth of the hat rack.
Elaine: Although I don't understand Chinese, but allow me to make a bold guess, this sir right here is probably trying to look for couple hats like this, right?
Charlie's eyes gleamed, and nodded vigorously.
Charlie: That's right, Miss Elaine. Although you don't understand Chinese, but you have understood love.
Charlie exchanged a glance of sympathy with Elaine, and directly took the purple rose wide-brimmed ladies' hat to gently place it on my head.
After putting on the hat for me, he didn't talk anymore. Only to look at me strangely, walking from left to right, then from right to left.
You: Aiya don't walk around anymore, my eyes are going to get blurry.
I gently tugged onto his tidy sleeve. Charlie stopped running around, and only staring deeply at my face in this quietness.
You: ... Is this hat, looking good on me?
Charlie: Objectively speaking, it's hard to comment on it.
Charlie leans his face closer, widening his eyes as he looked at me directly.
Charlie: How about you look into my eyes like a mirror too? My eyes are pretty bright as well.
You: ... I'm not as childish as you are!
I turned my head away, yet Charlie turned my head back like he's coaxing a kid.
Charlie: You look good, how can my fiancée ever not look good?
You: Don't you dare to lie to me.
Suddenly, Charlie held onto my puffy cheeks, and sticking a finger to lift the corners of my lips up.
Charlie: You'll look even better with a smile.
Charlie continued to look at me as he took a few steps backwards while simply picking a men's hat on the side.
Charlie: Miss Elaine, there's no need to try on the men's hat. We'll take this pair.
Miss Elaine waved her hand, and showed us a comforting smile.
Elaine: This pair of hats are something I've designed for a wedding couple, but back then there wasn't a market for it, so I'll gift them to you.
You: Huh? Free?
Elaine: Yes, consider that as a blessing for my good friend Y/N.
Elaine winked at me playfully. I startled for a moment, although I feel a little confused, but I still thanked her.
As we chit-chatted, it's already afternoon. Elaine sent us out, and I suddenly found Charlie acting a little weird--
He's no longer happy, and instead looked sluggish. It's almost as if the eraser of fate has erased all of his emotions.
You: Charlie, are you okay? Are you feeling uncomfortable anywhere?
Charlie: My... heart isn't feeling well.
Charlie's reactions are a little dull, and his lips moved weakly.
Charlie: I've never purchased something for free... My must-read book in preschool education is writing "there's no such thing as free lunch in the world, and there won't be a pie that falls from the sky for free"...
You: Why would you be this sad from buying a free hat...
I'm completely dumbfounded, in a moment, I have actually no idea on how I should console him-- But, Rome isn't built in a day, and it's not destructed in a day, so it's indeed difficult to change his perspective.
You: Uh... There's indeed no free pies falling from the skies. But, we aren't receiving blessings for no reason! Elaine must've been seeing your perfect personality that she felt there's a need to show something, since it's a priceless treasure after all.
Charlie: *scoffs* Is that so?
You: Think about it, didn't we pay for the entrance tickets when we were visiting the national palace museum?
Charlie: Completely logical. Fiancée, your train of thoughts is extremely logical.
Seeing Charlie's lips lifting up uncontrollably, I finally smiled in relief.
You: It has always been! Otherwise, would the skies really be dropping something as soon as I say "drop"?
Just when Charlie was about to agree with it--
"Thud". Suddenly, something fell from the skies, and hit right on top of my head.
Charlie: Watch out!
Seeing that the item is almost falling behind me, Charlie swiftly held me in his embrace, and receives this "foreign item from the skies" from the back of waist.
In the midst of chaos, I'm tightly held within his embrace, and was barely able to stabilize my footsteps.
Charlie: Sorry.
I raised my head to look at him, only to see Charlie in all smiles. Which part of him exactly is looking apologetic? And instead he even took the opportunity to lean a little closer as he spoke, as if he's doing it because he was forced by the situation.
Right then, a wave of roaring cheer could be heard from behind.
You: What... is going on?
Charlie: Don't move, we have a situation.
The sounds of cheers have completely surrounded us, and I can faintly hear voices saying "congratulations".
I struggled out from Charlie's embrace, and seeing that every single person in this crowd are all well-dressed. A woman donned in a wedding dress walks under the lights towards us with full of smiles.
Charlie: Thank you for your blessing, everyone.
Charlie's sudden reply that came out of nowhere made me even more confused.
What exactly is going on...
I turned around, only to see Charlie bowed slightly, his figure looking graceful with that height of his. Yet the item in his hand-- it's the wedding bouquet that all of the bridesmaids have been eyeing on.
Only then I remembered, Elaine's hat shop is opened near the church plaza, so there are weddings being held frequently here. It's an embarrassing coincidence that we encounter one today.
I'm so embarrassed that I no longer knew what to do. I've been maintaining a stiff smile over my face, and quietly poked Charlie with a finger.
Charlie: Hm? What are you doing?
You: What are you going to do?
Charlie: Don't be nervous, it's just a piece of cake. We'll act with the flow later, take note of my gaze.
Seeing the bride is now approaching us, I looked towards Charlie as if I've received a treasure.
You: You're indeed the reliable tone at crucial times! What gaze? Let's have a signal.
Charlie: It's this, let's do this.
The winds stopped just nicely, and the sunlight poured straight into Charlie's eyes, and I saw-- him winking at me.
The bride held her hem gracefully, and brought us to the church's entrance.
Bride: Congratulations to the both of you!
Perhaps it's because she saw our appearance and attire, the bride quickly changed into an enthusiastic Italian-styled English.
Bride: Sorry if I offend you, are the two of you newlyweds that are here for honeymoon? You look very lovey-dovey.
You: I'm sorry, we aren't married...
Charlie: Mm, she's only my fiancée.
He inadvertently raised his right hand, and a plain ring is now worn on his slender finger, radiating feelings of love just nicely.
Before I can even deny it in time, the cheers around us sounded for once again, even the sun outside the church plaza have became hotter.
You: No wait, where did you get a ring form?!
Charlie: I simply bought one at first, to experience it in advance. Chances are always there for those who are ready. In this path of romance show-off, I don't mind to be the one that walks ahead to open the path.
The smile in Charlie's eyes gleams more than ever, as if he has been waiting for this very chance to make his worldly announcement for a very long time.
Bride: As the bride, may I have the honor to invite you to deliver a speech on the podium? I am really looking forward to receive blessing from overseas.
Charlie: For that it'll be up to my fiancée's decision.
Charlie earnestly waited for my response with full of sincerity in his gaze, like the whirlwinds of the tropical storm.
I could've stop him, just like how I've always did before this. But--
Perhaps it's because the atmosphere here is overly enthusiastic, or perhaps it's because Charlie's smile is overly bewitching, or maybe it's also because of the overly dazzling sunlight in Sicily island, I've compromised to Charlie easily.
You: Okay. You...
Charlie: Don't worry about me. Aren't you the one who knows best on how useful this mouth of mine is?
Right after, Charlie walked right up to the podium. I had to admit that he's actually quite charming when he's looking prim and proper with a serious look.
Charlie threw a smile at me, looking triumphantly casual.
Charlie: Thank you everyone, thank you very much. *
Charlie (speaking in English): Thank you so much.
Charlie (speaking in French): Merci beaucoup.**
Charlie (speaking in Spanish): Muchas gracias.**
Charlie (speaking in Arabic): شكرا (Shukran)**
Charlie (speaking in Russian): Большое спасибо.**
*T/N: Although the audio is in Chinese but Charlie is fluent in Italian so you can self-insert him speaking in Italian lmao don't ask me why I've been laughing for days my brain can't work anymore
**T/N: All of the phrases meant the same thing.
You: He's really like a dictionary...
As soon as I finished dissing him, my eyes coincidentally met with Charlie's proud gaze.
I lowered my head as my guilty conscience kicks in, grabbing the marzipan* distributed by the bride, and pretended to listen as if nothing happened.
*T/N: Marzipan is a confection consisting primarily of sugar, honey, and almond meal (ground almonds), sometimes augmented with almond oil or extract.
Charlie: I knew that everyone on the floor might not be able to understand so many languages, but kindly allow me to do so. Because my talent in languages have allowed me to unable to choose to stay low-profiled. However, the more important thing is, I wanted to announce this pledge of mine for my fiancée to the whole world.
The crowd exclaimed, and their gazes have all gathered around Charlie and I. It feels like they have built a transparent bridge between us.
Charlie: Actually, just 10 minutes ago, I was still a perfect person. A pure man that has detached himself from low-level tastes. I didn't believe that a pie will fall down from the skies, and I didn't believe that people will receive blessings out of nowhere. Right now, I'm still a perfect person, but I'm able to believe them now. No matter how perfect the theory of probabilities is, it'll never be able to calculate such a romantic blessing; No matter how perfect the modelling methodologies are, it'll never be able to create such a perfect match like us.
At this point of his speech, Charlie looked towards me. My heart exposed under the hot suns have soften inexplicably.
Charlie: Although we aren't married yet, but to receive everyone's blessings today, I can see the hope again! May the groom and the bride will always in love for a long time.
Just then, a voice sounded from somewhere in the crowd--
Guest: Marry him!
You: What?!
Under everyone's anticipating gaze, the bridge that took no shape suddenly became a shaky rope. For each beat my heart took, it'll strum a sound along the rope, and echo in the center of the church plaza.
I was so surprised that I was choked by the candy in my mouth, that my cheeks got completely flustered and I'm unable to say a single word.
Charlie walked down from the podium, and raised a brow at my choked, flustered face, then gently patted my back to help me breathe normally.
Charlie: So impatient that your face is completely red already? I'm not even prepared to receive your reply.
You: Ahem ahem, then you look at them...
Charlie: They don't understand our way of having fun.
You: What should we do now?
I raised my head under the sun, and met Charlie's eye-catching smile.
Charlie: Of course we're going to run!
Ignoring the surprise and shock of the surroundings, Charlie grabbed my hand, turned around and dashed out of the plaza.
Charlie: Don't look back!
The time seemed froze at the moment we ran. The sea breezes brushed past my cheeks, with my heart beating so vigorously in my chest, and the warmth from the palm have made me even more reassured.
On the way down the slope, I even let go of Charlie's hand, and allowed gravity to drag me as I ran forward.
Until I started to pant as I stood well somewhere, I noticed my head is feeling light--
My messy hair is stuck at my temples, the hat I originally had is gone, and Charlie is nowhere to be found too.
You: Charlie...
There's no reply. Fear suddenly gushed towards me as I looked at the foreign mountain path, feeling at a loss.
As I lose my mind, a familiar voice sounded by my ear.
Charlie: You're here.
Charlie caught up to me from a corner, with both arms circling me entirely. The stable breathing from the tip of his nose intertwined with mine, and I'm just like a lonely, lost seagull that found the watchtower among the mist.
I knew that right now, I'm certain that the direction I wanted to head to is right here. The light weight is quietly pressing above my head, and accompanied by Charlie's gentle voice, my heart suddenly relaxed.
Charlie: Silly, do you not want the hat Elaine gifted you anymore?
You: ...... Thank you.
I thanked him, and my mood right now are just like the petals in the air, fluttering messily.
Charlie leans against the rails as the sunset pours over his lips, rippling a faint smile.
You: Why do you look like you're quite happy?
Charlie: Am I looking very happy?
He saw me nod. Charlie raised an eyebrow without making a comment, and the sparkling waves of light are reflecting in his eyes.
Charlie: Because, you're finally not running away from a wedding on your own.*
*T/N: Please read the bottommost part of this translation if you wanted to know about MC and Charlie's background.
My heart skipped a beat. It feels just like the endless time has also frozen for him, and turned into a deep pool momentarily.
As the sea breeze brushes, both of us did not say anything, only allowing the winds to swirl out the emotions that we never told each other, carrying them to the rolling waves in the distant seas. It's just like, we've told everything to each other.
I took off the straw hat, caressing he delicate patterns on it, feeling the blessings Elain tried to give to the newlyweds.
Unsure of the reason, I suddenly became brave.
You: Charlie, I'll ask you something.
Charlie: It's so rare for you to feel interested about me. Ask away.
You: What if... I'm just saying what if, what if I didn't run away from marriage, will you be fulfilling the contract?
I heard my voice weakening in tension, and it disappeared in the sounds of the winds very quickly.
Charlie fell into silence, and I was almost ready to bluff it over with a joke, but he suddenly spoke.
Charlie: *scoffs* I didn't expect it to be this kind of question.
Charlie turned his face to me as he smiles, but his gaze is filled with seriousness.
Charlie: Miss Y/N, have you ever thought about this, if it were you, how could it possible for you to not run away? Even if there are 100 chances given to you, you'll choose "Freedom and Pride" for 100 times, so where are the chances for me to fulfill my contract?
But, the doubts in my heart are still not completely dispersed yet.
You: Can I add on another question?
Charlie: Of course, I'll answer until you're satisfied.
You: ... If the person that was engaged to you, or the one that ran away from the marriage wasn't me, will you also chase her all the way to Guang Qi city?
Charlie: I will, because I wasn't sure of who you are.
Suddenly, a sense of bitterness surged into the waves of sweetness that I had earlier. I suddenly find myself very weird, and started to have my mood fluctuating for things that I was never supposed to worry about, just like the female protagonist in a romance drama.
You: Oh, is that so...
Being caught off guard, Charlie chuckled softly.
Charlie: Although I utter words of romanticism, or "very exaggerated" as certain people would call it, but I won't lie.
You: What do you mean?
Charlie supported himself against the railing with his elbow as he looked at me from above. The sunset is all poured under his eyes, it feels like Sicily island has one extra bit of light now.
Charlie: What I've said on the podium were all true-- "No matter how perfect the theory of probabilities is, it'll never be able to calculate such a romantic coincidence". And you, are the one that allowed all of these to happen. If it weren't you, this ridiculous coincidence will probably have ended in a hurry. But we're still standing here, only because it's you who have knocked over my domino. For such a romantic coincidence, even someone as perfect as me would probably only have it once.
Charlie's voice is deep, the sunlight sparkles in the waves, and my heart too, has gradually recovered its calmness.
Actually, there are so many more questions that I had in my mind. For example, how can you appear so sudden like a comet? How can you just pour out words of love so unsuspectingly? Will you suddenly vanish and disappear at a certain instant?
But all of these aren't important anymore.
Even if I were him, I wouldn't be able to give out an answer either, because we are just like the sea breezes immersing ourselves under the sunset, and are both unwilling to be bound to a fixed formula. And this, is probably the key to all answers.
You: Let's continue walking.
Charlie and I descended the mountain along the mountain path. The wedding song is faintly wafting from afar.
Charlie: There's a traditional culture in Sicily island. After the wedding ceremony ends, the wedded will celebrate by walking down from the church along the mountain path. See, we're already halfway down, how about we'll just get married?
You (pouting): No can do.
Charlie looked extremely satisfied, and blew a whistle.
The wedding song intertwined with the light whistle within the winds, gushing towards the seas.
Charlie quietly hooked my pinky, then held it smoothly. The plain ring in his middle finger is cooling, yet it feels like there's a new warmth after the touch.
I imagined my engagement ring that I've never met before, where could it be? Or has it already been sleeping in the mailbox in front of my house, only to wait for the owner that came to it late?
The sun is gradually setting, and the warmth of the daylight has disappeared with it, but there's still a long way ahead for us.
[Common Ending]
Two days later, the ending works of the fashion press conference have all ended.
Charlie and I parted at the airport, Charlie pressed onto his chest, looking completely unwilling to part.
Charlie: I can only see you off from here, Jill* didn't manage to grab a ticket of your flight, so I am only flying three hours later. Bear it for a little while, don't miss me too much.
*T/N: A made-up name of his butler 吉叔 (Ji Shu, literally translates to Uncle Ji).
You: Then I'll get going first, make sure to take care of your safety alright!
I looked at his diamond-embellished sunglasses, and I feel quite worried, and just when I was about to exhort him again--
Charlie: A perfect person doesn't mean there will be no mistakes, but to be able to learn lessons from experiences at any time. Don't worry, fiancée. Third time's the charm.
I stood right there and see Charlie to turn around and leave, then dragged my luggage to pass through the securities checks myself.
I originally thought this trip will end successfully just like this. However, unfortunately, because of the weather, the flight has been delayed. And I've been staying in the airport for three hours.
Just when I was loitering at the duty free store and thinking about the souvenir that I'm planning to get for An An, suddenly, with a glance from the corner of my eyes, I saw a fancy silhouette dragging an 28-inch luggage walking out from the luggage storage area of the airport--
You: Charlie?
The silhouette startled in panic, and ran off to the opposite direction, with quicker and quicker steps. I immediately picked up my luggage and chased over--
You (angry puffy face): Wait up!
I almost thought an Italian race walking version of cat and mice is about to be played, but the silhouette before me suddenly gave up his struggles proactively, and stopped at a corner.
I walked closer to have a look, there's an Italian old lady in wheelchairs before him asking for the boarding gate in panic.
Charlie: Lady, are you looking for boarding gate number 18? I'll send you there.
Charlie swiftly pulled the handle of the luggage to the same level as the handle of the wheelchair, pushing his luggage and the old lady towards the boarding gate. I quickly followed in small steps.
After closing up to his side, I really wanted to ask the reason why he's appearing here, but only to see Charlie winking at me-- I gestured an 'OK' understandably, and lowered my voice.
You: What's wrong with you, looks like you're very afraid of bumping into me?
Charlie: I wasn't.
You: If you weren't then why were you running so fast?
Charlie: I'm rushing to pay respect to the elderly, see?
As he speaks, Charlie showed the old lady a smile like a spring breeze, and received a gratified response from the old lady.
You: ...... Speaking of it, you've found your luggage?
I glanced at his luxury luggage-- Looking at the slow wheels, looks like there are quite a bit of things in there.
Charlie: Ahem ahem, what did you say?
You: There, this box. The luggage storage slip has your name on it.
Charlie: Ahem ahem, it was just found. The staff informed me to collect it.
You: Just now? But... The luggage storage slip writes "temporal storing for five days". We've only been spending five days in Italy...
As I spoke, I suddenly felt the doubts disappearing from my heart, an answer has surfaced before me--
You: Charlie, you actually didn't lose your luggage, correct? Did you happen to hear that I'll be going for a business trip, so you've been waiting for a stroke of luck here?!
Charlie: Ahem ahem, mhm, *clears throat*, ahem ahem...
Old Lady: Young man, are you sick?
Charlie: No, I'm very healthy.
As if it's for him to make sure the old lady isn't worried, Charlie immediately freed himself from the embarrassment, and showed a confident smile. The old lady nodded with thoughts in mind, and smiled intently.
Old Lady: Look at the two of you, it feels like I've seen my younger self. Young man, you have to be honest with each other...
You: Charlie, my Italian isn't fluent enough. What did the old lady say?
Charlie: She told me to take care of my health.
Charlie looked normal, but he no longer spoke.
Along the way of sending the old lady to the boarding gate, he has not said a single word. Until seeing the old lady's flight to depart, I've decided to break this rare silence--
You: Charlie, there's five more minutes for me to board my flight.
Charlie: Mm.
You: Then see you in Guang Qi... Is there nothing that you want to tell me?
Charlie: Wait a moment.
He seem to have suddenly made up his mind, and my arm is held by a large hand. In a trance, a warm breath gushed towards me. Charlie shrouded me into his shadows, and is getting closer and closer--
The sun is no longer dazzling, and the soft lips gently brushed past both sides of my cheeks. Left, then right, just like a dragonfly skimming the surface of the waters.
Charlie: This is il bacetto*, I'm doing as the locals do. We will meet again very soon, fiancée.
*T/N: Cheek kissing.
You: You...
Charlie: Why are you blushing with only this? In the future-- Urk--
Taking the opportunity when Charlie is complacently putting his guards down, I pounced at him, and and gave him a tight hug suddenly.
You: Hmph, I'll not lose out to you.
My instincts are telling me, what I'm doing now is correct.
I shrunk myself in Charlie's embrace, and gently rubbing against his placket. The temperature has now increased, and the originally cooling autumn has became stuffy, but it's just perfect enough to completely melt the complicated knots that have been deeply buried in my heart.
You: Thank you, for accompanying me to this business trip.
Charlie startled slightly, and a laughter can be heard by my ear.
Charlie: So you've guessed it all already? You're welcome. Otherwise how would I be your perfect fiancé?
Charlie's tone is particularly gentle, like a piece of melted caramel, dripping onto the afternoon in Italy.
Outside the waiting hall, my flight is about to take off soon.
My fate with Italy too, is temporarily stopped at this station.
But I don't feel sad. Under the clear skies, I seem to be able to see a future in distant.
THE END
Thank you for reading and feel free to check out other translations of Light and Night here!
------ Bonus Notes ------
Hello! Thank you for reading all the way here and I truly appreciate it!
I'm sure that some of you are here before knowing Charlie or about this game, so I just wanted to give some context about them.
MC and Charlie had an arranged engagement by their parents. MC didn't know who Charlie was, and assumed she was forced to be engaged to a 50-year-old man (Charlie's 28 at this point of time). Charlie didn't know who he is engaged to, either.
Charlie is one of the heirs of the richest pharmaceutical tycoons, and it's hinted that MC's father is also someone very rich (but we don't know who yet). MC's born in Guang Qi, but moved overseas (to Charlie's country of birth) because her mother and grandmother passed away before she turned adult.
MC is a fashion designer that has created many wonderful works in Warson, the company she's working with, under the mentorship of Sariel, the world-class top fashion designer. So she doesn't really have trouble with money with her own capabilities too. If I say more it'll be quite the spoiler so if you're interested about the main story, I'm working on translating all of the chapters so feel free to refer to the translation masterlist here.
MC and Charlie's dynamics are very unique. While they are polar opposites, where MC started to ignore all Charlie's very proactive and flashy advances, but when a crisis happens, both of them work surprisingly well together in great tacit. You'll find MC dissing him very often in the main story, going speechless and being at loss of words because of how corny and showy Charlie is, but as the story progresses, with the dates going on, she's starting to see the childish, pure side of this very corny man too.
This game is related to supernatural abilities. The abilities here are called 'talent'. Generally there are the Erdas (Spirit tribe, basically beings with longevity that has original forms of trees or animals or the spirits, but takes the form of human at most times), the Strains (blood tribe, consider them as vampires if you want), those who might be a hybrid, and of course, humans.
It's rare for humans to have talents, and MC is one of them. MC's talent allows her to feel emotions from things or people she touches. Charlie, on the other hand, is not a human. MC's childhood friend, Jesse pointed out that Charlie's someone from the Spirit tribe, but I personally think there might be more to who Charlie really is because he didn't comment on his true identity, but he's indirectly admitted that he is indeed not a human. His talent isn't completely revealed yet, but it's 'vacuum' that has something to do with air, so far he has exploded glasses, making people to fall on their knees and control airflow to scare MC with his talent.
While at the point of writing there are still much more to know about their full backgrounds, but the dates are mostly not directly related with the main story, so if you wanted something sweet, or angsty, you can have it all in Light and Night, the very first 18+ game in China lol. I'll try my best to translate whenever I can. But since I'm also a working adult, please bear with me while I promise to try my best to provide content and context.
Thanks again for reading this long wall of text! I hope it gives you a clearer idea about the characters and a little introduction to the game! :)
