[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 2: Episode 05 || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动 奇遇初体验・繁花之旅：剧情05

Please read Episode 04 here before proceeding with reading~

After staying for a period of time in the livehouse, our bodies are filled with confetti ribbons and champagne foams.

Evan: If you don't get changed, it's going to be easy to catch a cold.

Evan draped his coat on me, and turned on the car's heater slightly.

The taillight left a trail of light in the night, driving through the long streets, and the surrounding buildings gradually looked more familiar.

This is Evan's house that locates in Shidome, it's a Victorian style villa.

Evan: What did you recall? You looked happy.

You: I just remembered, I was also drenched like this, and was also having your coat on during my last visit*.

*T/N: Evan's maid card date iirc.

Evan stunned slightly, and a smile follows right after.

Now that we returned to indoors after leaving the bustling venue, it feels particularly warm and relaxed.

Evan: You can take a shower upstairs, Auntie Wang* will prepare clean clothes for you. If you feel bored later, you can stay in my study for a while.

*T/N: One of Evan's servants.

You: Then how about you?

Evan: I'll be showering downstairs.

Evan's step paused when he was just about to turn around, and smiled as he caressed my cheek.

Evan: Or, you wanted me to stay here?

You: !

It can't help for the atmosphere to exude a weird flirtatiousness, so I quickly hugged my handbag and escape my way upstairs.

After cleaning up, my body immediately relaxed. Evan has yet to appear, so I could only carry the cake and wait for him in his study.

I wanted to pick a random book to kill time, but my gaze was caught by the international chess set placed on the short table. 

This is an equally-rivaled chess match.

I was too focused at it that I didn't notice someone approaching me by the side, until a large patch of shadow strikes from behind.

Evan leaned down, an arm supporting against the table, his rich voice sounded by my ear.

Evan: So deep in thoughts?

You: Yeah, there are some parts that I didn't understand.

I originally had more to say, but as soon as I saw him when I briefly looked up, my words immediately drowned by my lips.

Evan is wearing a grey sleeping robe, collar exuding a soft light uniquely from silk.

The belt is loosely tied on his left, a water droplet trickles down his chest, heaving rhythmically just as his breath, seeping into the depths of fantasies. 

Evan: Do you want to continue to finish this game?

He turned towards me, and my unsettling gaze still finally returned to the chessboard.

I played as White, and Evan played as Black. The originally heated chess game is gradually shaking.

I kept thinking there's an opening, so I continuously pressured towards the center, but I've instead fell into a trap.

You: It feels like I'll lose no matter how I play...

I supported my chin with my chin, only to make a fake move, and pray for him to fall for it.

Evan languidly leaned against the tableside, reached out for the queen, and gently caressed it within between his fingertips.

Rather than calling it as his subconscious play when he's in his thoughts, I'd call it as his way to examine the situation when he knows everything is under his control.

You: Why are you taking this long to think? Isn't Black already at its advantage?

He did not answer it directly, but only to allow the rays of light deliberately reflecting its scattering light on the chess piece.

Evan: Even for easier games, you can't let your guards down either. Leave no regrets after each move, regardless the world, the same rule applies. This is the line I heard the most when I first learn chess.

You: But rules are rules, and we are who we are.

I lifted my hand, fingertips brushed past Evan's palm, taking out the chess piece from his hand, and simply placed it on the chessboard.

The placed piece can't break the game, and it isn't even anywhere logical nor meaningful, but does it matter anymore?

I smiled as I gazed deep into his eyes.

You: At least in my world, you'll always have a room for regrets.

After stunning slightly, Evan smiled slightly.

Evan: Then now, am I allowed to regret on something?

You: Hm? What do you want to be regret about?

Evan extended an arm to encircle my waist, drawing me close, and his intentionally lowered voice is somewhat alluring.

Evan: I originally wanted to play chess with you... But now, there's something more important that I wanted to do.

Evan held my hand, fingertip gently caressing  on the back of my hand.

My heart uncontrollably trembled a little, even my voice became demure.

You: We haven't even eaten the cake...

I turned my body a little, and opened the delicate paper box.

The cake is very tiny, only four inches, with fresh strawberries decorated on top of the cream.

After lighting up a candle, I shut off the lights of the study one by one in my slippers, then returned to Evan.

You: It's done.

Under the candlelight, an unreal feeling exudes from his face, looking even softer than usual.

Evan: Lighting up only one candle?

You: Yeah, because what it  represents isn't age, but the first birthday I spent with you. So, there will be two next year, then three... and there will be many many more in the future!

The specks of candlelight aren't as bright as the moonlight, but it's much gentler than the night.

I closed my eyes before Evan does.

You: Make a wish!

It's Evan's birthday, but I can't help myself to read out quietly in my heart.

I hope I can accompany you for many more birthdays to come, and spend many mornings and nights with you; Touching the borderlines of the past together, and grab tightly onto the unknown future together.

The moment the candlelight is blown, I grabbed onto Evan's collar, and leaned to his ear.

You: Happy birthday, Evan.

In an unlit place, a sense of numbness fell on my cheek, keeping all of the gloominess away.

[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 2: Episode 04 || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动 奇遇初体验・繁花之旅：剧情04

Please read Episode 03 here before proceeding with reading~

I only realized the night skies have completely overtaken the sunlight at the moment we walked out of the photography studio.

Long shadows dragged across the concrete floor, stretching all the way to the neon-lit street corner.

Entering the livehouse with the crowd, everyone had a blue stamp of different numbers on the back of their hands, this is the unique proof of entry.

You: Evan, over here!

The bustling venue immediately separated us, I tried my best to tiptoe and placed my hands over my mouth like a loudspeaker.

As soon as I called out to him, the low bass started a soundwave, and the cheers are livening the atmosphere endlessly.

Men and women shakes their head and pogoed crazily, releasing their emotions that can't be expressed elsewhere.

Evan stopped his footsteps, carefully reading my lip, and very quickly walked towards me.

I raised my phone and waved my phone screen before him.

The memo papers in the photo writes 'livehouse' and 'listen to music' separately, and it's a rare combination that matches well.

You: Whistle when others whistle, and shout together when everyone calls for encore. You can do whatever you want, the most important thing is to enjoy your hearts out!

The light and shadows kept interchanging over Evan's face, brushing past the sweater he unbuttoned.

Perhaps it's because everyone here are standing very close to each other, I stuck with him undisturbedly.

You: Do you find it too noisy? Wanna have a look in front?

Evan bent down in the midst of the bustling noise, scorching breath fell by my ear.

Evan: Are you worrying about me?

You: Yeah, I'm worried that you aren't used to it. Since... it's probably your first time here, right?

The moment the disco ball turns, he held my waist, and smiled intently.

Evan: Alright, then it shall be the first time.

What did he mean by "then it shall be"...?

Before I can understand the deeper meaning to it, two familiar numbers leaped out from the microphone.

Lead singer: Are our friends of number 22 and 23 here? Raise your hands up--

I lifted my arm in surprise, the same number is clearly written on it, with a commotion sounding around me.

Spectator A: Wow, I'm so jealous! I wanted to go up there and sing together too!

Spectator B: Me too me too, it'd be nice even if I just stand by the side and count beats, huhuhu...!

It's the repertoire of this band to invite spectators on the stage during their interlude.

Evan and I were pushed to the front most by the crowd, sounds of applause also lead the atmosphere towards its climax.

He stepped astride onto the stage, then gently lifted me up by my waist, helping me to stand on the stage stably.

Lights swaying, and through the noisy cheers, I could hear my hastened breath.

Suddenly, the strength covering my hand tightened slightly.

Evan: The most important thing is to enjoy your heart's out, that's what you said earlier.

The deep voice sounded by my ear, making the nervous emotions completely crumble.

Hence I no longer hesitate, and picked up the microphone.

Evan: Are you ready?

You: Yeah!

The black and white keys played, guitar strummed quickly, raising deafening soundwaves across the venue.

My voice overlapped with Evan's as we sang our hearts out in the music.

In between the accompaniment, I secretly tickled his palm, and mouthed to him.

You: Perfectly jinxed.

And in the blurred lights, he quietly caught onto my disobedient finger that kept moving about.

The drum beats like raindrops, other musical instruments continued to strum crazily, entering the climax of the refrain.

The music suddenly stopped when it arrived its climax, and the loudest source of sound in the entire livehouse suddenly disappeared.

The sudden quietness magnified my heartbeat infinitely, as if there's only this stage that remained in the entire world.

Perhaps it's the magic brought by music, right now, an extremely ridiculous idea surfaced in my mind.

I whispered by the lead singer's ear, and he very quickly gestured an OK to me with a smile.

Taking a deep breath, I placed a hand on the musical keyboard, single, choppy notes flowed out from my fingertips.

Sol, sol, la, sol, do, si... *

*T/N: Birthday song

The crowd began whispering to each other, and very quickly, the commotion quieted down.

Spectator A: Eh? It's birthday song--

I leaned close to the microphone, and started singing with the slow-paced tempo.

After a few seconds of hesitation, there are many complexed, strange bits of emptions slowly flowing across Evan's eyes.

There's surprise, warmth, calmness, and finally exuding his utmost, quietest gentleness.

He took a few steps forward to stand by my side, and placed a hand on the keyboard too.

Evan: For this part, just leave it to me.

Evan played lightly in company with my voice, the scattering singing voices gradually joined together, and became a choir.

By the time the last note falls, the champagne rushed out from the bottle, bringing yet another wave of screams.

Amidst the bustling sounds, Evan's scorching breath pours over my ears, only to be heard by me alone.

Evan: Thank you, Y/N.

Just when I was about to speak, Evan held my hand, his gaze fell into my eyes.

The disco ball no longer spins, but why do I feel, that everywhere I can see are filled with stars?

[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 2: Episode 03 || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动 奇遇初体验・繁花之旅：剧情03

Please read Episode 02 here before proceeding with reading~

The gentle winter sunlight pours through the tree shades, leaving its specks onto a wooden signboard that is nowhere eye-catching.

"Feilin Movies", Shiodome area's most historical photography studio. 

Upon entering the door, a white kitten leaped off from the table, languidly stretching itself, then leaped towards Evan's leg and nuzzled up against him affectionately.

You: Looks like it likes you a lot.

Evan: Perhaps it's because, it's not our first encounter.

You: Eh?

Evan: I often see it loitering around this area whenever I drove past this place. Before the owner adopts it, I brought some feed for it.

While we're conversing, the white kitten leaped forward, and led us through various kinds of photography studio.

We walked all the way to the innermost room. It has great lighting, that even the floating dust in the air are visible.

You: This is the props room, the owner is still taking pictures, so he said we can wait for him here.

Evan: So "having a lesson in photography studio"... is actually learning photography?

You: Bingo!

I made simple adjustments on the parameters, and handed a full frame DSLR to Evan.

You: In my impression, you seem to really like playing with machines.

In the clockworks collection workshop*, Evan subconsciously showed his focus and enjoyment, and it made him look like he was glowing.

*T/N: Reference to top-up card, translated here.

You: Give it a try, who knows you might also be interested in cameras too!

Evan turned the camera's viewfinder, trying to switch around different modes of photography.

You: There are many ways for photo compositions, for me, I usually prefer the usage of leading lines in compositions.

I leaned slightly closer to Evan, lifting the camera in his hand, and pointed the lens towards a corner of the props room.

You: Roads, rivers, trees, even people's gaze can become a leading line to attract the viewer's attention.

Evan: In other words, it works as long as there's a linear relationship?

You: That's right, for example, just like this--

I picked up a marker pen and scribbled on the whiteboard, trying my best to directly present the unique part of compositions.

Click-- The sound of shutter clicking is suddenly heard from behind.

I turned around, seeing Evan holding the camera as he moved the lens away from me.

You: Why were you sneaking a picture of me?!

Evan: Was I sneaking a picture? I was just trying the leading line composition.

As soon as he finishes his sentence, he slowly walked forward, and took the marker pen away from me.

I leaned closer in curiosity, wanting to see what he's drawing.

But it can't be helped that Evan's figure is really overly tall and well-built, so I can only attempt to keep leaning forward.

Evan: Teacher*. 

*T/N: This part is like a way to address MC as a teacher. Imagine Japanese anime students calling their teachers 'sensei', basically same concept lol sorry I kinda suck at explaining this

You: Eh?

Before I can even respond to it, Evan suddenly raised an arm and supported it against the whiteboard, and encircled me entirely within his arm.

This is already an overly overstepping distance. The marker pen glides across the whiteboard, leaving a flirtatious trail in my heart.

Evan: A composition like this, does it work too?

I subconsciously met Evan's gaze following his question, but he instead leaned down all of a sudden.

You: I only have a smattering of it...

Evan: Really? But I think you taught well.

Evan extended an arm to take off his glasses, then put it onto my face, flirtatious sediments lies within his gaze.

Evan: I will resign myself to your guidance, Teacher Y/N.

Between my heartbeats, I can only let my cheeks dye itself to scarlet bit by bit.

Hence I straightforwardly opened my palm, looked up and met his gaze.

You: Then student Evan, what photos did you take earlier, can you show me?

Evan: Of course I can, but before this, I wanted to take another one as practice.

Evan lifted his camera, and the beeping sound of the camera focus is heard.

You: Wouldn't the distance be a little too close?

Evan: Is it?

His lips curved, the camera held between us immediately disappeared, only leaving our breaths close to each other.

Evan: I remembered there was a photographer that said, if you didn't take a good enough photo, it's because you aren't close enough.

The warm breaths pours over my ear, just like a carefully placed trap.

Suddenly, the freeze frame flashes, but it isn't from the camera in Evan's hand.

The door of the prop room is opened without us noticing it, the white kitten let out a cry and barged in, breaking the enchanting atmosphere.

Looking towards the source of the sound, the owner places down his camera, and scratched his head shyly.

Owner: Uh... The lighting was too good, I can't help with my work habit.

I quickly separated with Evan, and subconsciously touched my burning ear.

He, however, naturally held my hand, and sat with me shoulder to shoulder.

The little photography classroom has begun, the owner's explanation is simple and easy to understand, and unknowingly, it's already the evening.

Under the cover of the classroom table, the fingers held close to my palm has never been let go.

While the owner turned around to demonstrate the photography process, Evan's purposely-lowered voice quietly glides past.

Evan: It's still more interesting to listen to little teacher's class.

I still acted like I was listening to the class seriously, but my heart felt like it's gently brushed by a feather.

One by one, under the continuous clicking sounds of the shutter, our fingers slowly interlocked, gently caressing the lines of each other's palms.

The sunset pours from the windows, and at the instant the camera focused, it felt particularly slow and quiet.

[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 2: Episode 02 || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动 奇遇初体验・繁花之旅：剧情02

Please read Episode 01 here before proceeding with reading~

You: Speaking of it... This place is much more spacious than I thought!

Evan: Be careful, here's still a staircase in front.

Coming out from the narrow toy car, we are now located in an extremely spacious class A motorhome.

The vehicle is completely equipped with facilities, living room connected to the open kitchen, and on the table facing right towards the TV, there are also colorful soft drinks stashed on it.

Evan: I didn't expect for motorhomes like this to exist in the city.

You: Of course, without such a huge space, how are we going to fight?

Evan: Fight?

Evan paused, and a light chuckle followed.

Evan: So it's this.

You: I've been wanting to ask you, why did you write 'fighting'? I kept reading the paper again and again, I almost thought something went wrong with my eyes.

Evan: Hmm...

Evan curled his index finger and placed it over his lips, then looked at me intently.

Evan: It's probably because you looked like you wanted to have a showdown with me when you're looking fierce and bouncing around from time to time.

You: When did that even happen?!

I refuted softly, stepping onto the thick rug as I walked into the bedroom. Evan closes the door, pursed his lips and followed suit.

Evan: I'm curious, in a certain little girl's mind, what location should the word "fighting" match with?

You: Probably a place like a boxing gym or something, it can help to relieve some stress. But in a motorcar, it's indeed a little hard to make it happen.

I looked around, and just when I was thinking how to "fight safely", a softness suddenly struck on my arm.

I looked up in confusion, only to see Evan lifted a pillow in his hand.

Evan: How about using this?

He moved his body, and revealed the stash of soft pillows of various sizes at the corner of the room.

I stunned for a couple of seconds, immediately understood what he meant, then snatched the pillow from his hand and fought back,.

You: Hehe, 1-1, tied!

Evan smiles as he took a few steps backwards, and picked up a bolster as his weapon.

I chased after him with resolute, not leaving him with any room for thoughts.

You: Watch this--!

Just when I voiced out, the pillow flew straight out from my hand.

Fingertips hooked onto the zipper and pulled it downwards along with the throw, accidentally opened the corner line. In that instant, goose feather fluttered in the air like snow.

At where the white feathers flutters, a pillow flew quickly towards me from the opposite side, briefly brushed past my elbow and fell on the floor.

You: Phew, that was close!

I simply picked a couple of light pillows and threw them out continuously, but my throws have only brushed past the edges of his clothes.

Despite being defensive at most of the times, Evan didn't look like he's in a mess at all, and even looking gentlemanly. 

Yet I'm just like a mindless little rabbit that have been chasing and hopping everywhere with all my might.

You: Why does it feel like... you're still standing at the same spot without moving much?

Evan smiled, the smile got a little deeper than earlier.

Evan: Then would it be easier if I get a little closer to you?

You: Don't go easy on me, I'll definitely win!

But even though Evan has gone easy on me, I still couldn't land a hit on him.

The pillows I've thrown out are either brushing past his hair or landed towards his calf.

You: *huff*... *huff*...

Separated by the light goose feathers, Evan's tall figure is only two steps away from me.

While he stopped, I quickly grabbed a pillow that is half broken and swung it towards the front--

With my eagerness and overuse of strength, inertia acted like invisible hands and gave me a push from behind.

You: !!

Before I have fully let out my exclaim, my entire body pounced straight towards the front.

Evan: Watch out!

Evan took a large stride and caught onto me, and both of us fell into the stash of pillows together.

The feathers rose with our fall, fluttering in the air.

Evan: Are you alright?

His hand tightly encircled my waist, with only a thread's distance lies between the tips of our noses.

You: I'm fine, how about you?

Every part waist down of ours are sticking to each other, that even a slight bend on the knee could touch Evan's leg.

I moved my body subconsciously, and his chest suddenly tensed.

Evan: What's wrong?

Evan's voice has always been deep, but now it's somehow sounding low and indistinct.

You: I'm thinking, with this earlier, does it count for me to have hit you?

I lowered my head defenselessly. He startled slightly, and the corners of his eyes and lips curved helplessly.

Evan: It's a hit.

You: Really?! Let's continue then!

I tried to support myself against the floor to get up, but Evan gently held onto my wrist.

His fingertips brushed past my back, and pressed on it skillfully.

It took me some effort to lift my upper body, but it fell down once again, with warm touches gradually passed through the layer of clothing.

You: Um... Aren't we going to play anymore?

Evan: Taking a break.

Evan closes his eyes, even breaths wafted, making the tip of my ears to burn slightly.

As my line of gaze travels, an extremely thin fluff fell onto his left cheek.

You: Evan.

Evan: Hm?

I held onto his arm, and leaned a little closer.

You: *blows air*--

The fluff gently flies up in the airflow, Evan's breath paused slightly.

You: It's done.

He did not utter a word, gently pressing from the back of my head, gradually shortening the distance between us bit by bit.

I'm clearly on top, but the one in control is instead still the person beneath me.

I nervously clenched onto a corner of his coat, and suddenly, his breath stopped at the most dangerous spot.

Evan opened his eyes slightly, and looked towards me with a faint smile.

Evan: Thank you.

I stunned for a moment, and after pursing my lips and stared at him for a few seconds, we both laughed together.

You: How dare you to actually tease me, hm... I'll punish you to tidy this place with me!

The hand on my waist loosened, along with his brows.

Evan (doting voice): Okaay.

[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 2: Episode 01 || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动 奇遇初体验・繁花之旅：剧情01

Please read prologue here before proceeding with reading~

Ever since winter has begun, today's weather is so great that it's hard to get by.

The sculpture plaza before us is the landmark attraction of Shiodome, since the previous decade until today, it has remained a traditional Europa style.

The symmetric lines draws out the classical yet complicated patterns, its colors slightly faded over time.

You: This is the first location we drawn.

The warm sun shines brightly, that the last bits of dampness in my nervousness are all baked into nothingness.

I turned around to face Evan, and walked backwards, step by step.

You: Do you want to guess what activity you've drawn?

Evan: In my impression, the things I wrote were all very normal. However judging from your expression, it looks like it's telling me, that it's time to give me a hard time?

You: No I wasn't!

I placed the memo across Evan's eyes, blocking off the smile hanging over the corner of his lips.

You: Ta-da--! Driving on the sculpture plaza, how is this counted as giving you a hard time?

Evan took the little piece of paper, and quietly looked around at his surroundings.

Evan: Driving is easy, but driving in the plaza is forbidden.

I tugged the hem of his cloth, and smiled rather confidently. 

You: Follow me!

Walking past the crowd, my smiles looked gradually clearer along with the joyful music.

Evan: This is...

At the west corner of the plaza, dozens of children car are parked in a line. 

In order to accommodate to Shidome's overall style, it even uses a old-style convertible cars, looking delicate and retro.

After I've secretly captured the rare sliver of hesitation from Evan, I can't help but to let out a smile.

You: It can't be helped, this is the only car that is allowed to be driven in this plaza.

After nodding towards the rental staff not far away from us, I pressed on the car lock.

Before I can even sit well, the seat by my side has slightly sunk too.

Seeing Evan face-to-face, I can't help but to start laughing.

You: It feels like I've suddenly returned to childhood, being short, so everything seemed very large.

I patted on the remote control area on the driver's seat.

You: I'll leave the steering to you then!

Evan has probably began observing the car's structure as soon as he sat down, and turned his head slightly towards me when he heard me.

Evan: Do you trust me this much?

You: That's right, you can drive it anywhere you like.

He gently turned the little handle on the right side of the steering wheel, experimented it simply, and very quickly mastered maneuvering it. 

You: Not bad not bad! It moved!

The tail lamp lights up, bringing breezes across the plaza, as if the entire world have been shrunk into this very space.

The central fountain rises and falls with the melodious song, sunlight embellishing a faint layer of gold onto every splash of water droplet.

Evan: Do you like playing this when you were little?

You: Yeah, but my sense of direction is very bad. Sometimes when there are many cars, I'll become nervous, I intended to drive left, but the moment I stepped onto the pedal, it'll be driven to the right side.

Evan: Just like this?

Evan made a sudden turn, and the car made a 180 degree turn.

You: !

The sudden inertia pushed me into his embrace.

In the toy car with limited space, our clothes rubbed against each other, traces of the changes in each fold of every layer could be felt.

You: Why did you accelerate all of a sudden?

Evan: I'm sorry, I just wanted to test the extremes of the toy car.

Evan was clearly apologizing, but a prankster's smile is clearly hidden within his gentle tone.

The same engine sound could be heard from behind, there's a pink toy car catching up to us very quickly.

A young pair of mother and daughter sits in the car, joyful frolicking dispersed in the winds.

The moment we crossed each other, the girl suddenly turned away from her mother's embrace, and waved to us with all her might.

Child: Mister handsome! Are you also bringing Miss pretty for a ride?

I can't hold back from pursing into a smile, imitating the little girl's actions, and held onto the arm of the person beside me.

You: That's not it, it's missy who's taking him out.

I then leaned onto Evan's shoulder, and added another line with a voice that only the two of us can hear clearly. 

You: So today, I am little Evan's guardian~

With a distance so close that he's within an arm's reach, I could see him so clearly, that even each of his drooping eyelash are clear in sight.

Evan stunned a little, the pair of eyes behind the lenses gradually tinted with a soft smile.

As if the mother by her side reminded her of something, the girl turned her head towards us again.

Child: I hope mister handsome and miss pretty can have fun like me! Uh... and can ride little car every day!

Evan and I smiled at each other, then waved at her.

Our convertible kept driving forward, the cold breeze became warm under the sunlight.

My hand that was originally supporting against the side of my car seat is suddenly enveloped within Evan's large palm.

You: Eh?

With an arm on the steering wheel, index finger lifting up slightly, and pointed towards the road sign not far away.

The signboard has a line of reminder written in yellow: In order to prevent loss, we wish for all parents to hold onto their children properly.

Evan: Didn't you want to be my guardian?

Half of his side leaned slightly closer to me, strands of hair intertwined.

Evan: We have to follow the rules.

You: ... Okay!

The fountain splashes out its water pillars again, like transparent fireworks rising to the skies.

I held back to Evan's hand lightly, he passed through the spaces between my fingers, and locked his warmth completely within.

[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 2: Prologue || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动 奇遇初体验・繁花之旅：序章

Pre-Quest Story can be read here for context!

I woke up exceptionally early on the day of Evan's birthday.

The milk is still being warmed in the microwave, fried egg half-fried, I simply wiped my hand, and dragged on my slippers to retrieve my phone.

I have already made bookings for the places we're going in advance, the locations are all around Shiodome area, so it shouldn't allow Evan to travel with me for too far.

Upon confirming the details, I can finally feel a little relieved.

You: Hope everything goes well!

I edited my newest status in my timeline, and the attached image is a tightly clenched fist of cheer.

It's almost at the instant I posted my status, Evan's call arrived.

Evan: Good morning.

The room is very quiet, breeze brushing gently, tossing the golden-like sunlight into my embrace.

Compared to "good morning", it seems like there's another sentence that is more suitable to be the conversation opener.

You: Happy birthday, Evan.

The other end of the call is just as quiet, that it feels like the only thing I can differentiate is his light and slow breath.

Evan: Perhaps, you can tell me again when we meet later?

You: The birthday boy is the king today, so it's fine no matter how many times you wished to!

Evan can't help but to let out a chuckle. The demure sounds of electronic waves of the conversation exchange made his voice sounded even deeper.

Evan: Looks like I have a lot of privilege today. Are you still sleepy? How about you sleep for a little while longer? There's still a lot more time.

Just when I was about to speak, frolicking sounds can be heard from my phone.

At the same time, there are almost similar sounds that are almost in sync over my side.

You: Wait--

I was stunned for a couple of seconds, then jumped off the bed and rushed to the entrance.

At the instant I opened the door, the warm winter sunlight pours in, and brightened the entire corridor.

You: When did you arrive...

Specks of light fell across Evan's shoulders. He turned sideways, and met my gaze.

Evan: Just a while ago.

You: I should be the one to look for you at your house!

It's his birthday today, there's no reason for him to let him pick me up for an outing.

Evan: Weren't we talking about I'll be having a lot of privileges? Well then allow me to use it in advance, and change our starting point for today, is it alright?

Right now, I'm still wearing my sleeping gown, hood barely covering my head, with two bunny ears drooping everywhere.

You: I... I'm not ready!

Evan: It's fine, I'll wait for you.

Evan extended an arm, and relocated the disobedient bunny ears back to its original place.

Suddenly, a burnt smell wafted from the kitchen.

You: Oh no!

It was at this moment I remembered, a pitiful egg is still struggling in the oil pan.

Evan: Allow me.

Evan smiled helplessly, hung his coat on the hanger at the entrance, and walked straight into the kitchen.

I quickly made coffee. The rich scent of the beans weakened the burnt smell.

Evan placed my breakfast on the little dining table by the balcony, picked up the coffee and took a light sip.

Evan: It's Geisha*, it does seem like it's a flavor that you'd like.

*T/N: Geisha coffee. Geisha beans are known for having a very unique flavor profile. They are distinctively floral and intensely fruit-forward. The type of fruit flavor can vary depending on the origin. In general, it often has notes of mango, guava, papaya, and citrus.

He paused, gaze moved towards me.

Evan: Have I interrupted your pace with my sudden visit?

You: Of course not, it's me who was being slow, I didn't expect that I'd have to trouble you for my breakfast in the end.

Evan handed another cup of coffee to my hand, making an arm free to encircle my waist, and leaned down slightly.

Evan: Then I should've been here last night, so my Miss Rabbit wouldn't be in a rush on the following day.

My ears started heating uncontrollably, and I quickly turned around.

You: I'll go get changed.

Hiding in the cloakroom, I finally let out a long sigh. A few strands of long hair brushes past the tip of my nose, still lingering with a faint scent of coffee.

Through the door slit, Evan's gentle back figure gradually filled my line of gaze, making me completely filled with anticipation.

It will definitely be a very, very good day today.

[Light and Night Event] Evan's Birthday Event: Part 1: Pre-Quest Story || 光与夜之恋 陆沉生日活动・ 奇遇初体验・韫色构想：前置剧情

The moment my fieldwork ends, the skies suddenly poured heavily.

Just when I was observing how heavy the rain is, I saw a familiar car slowly passing through the curtains made of thin, woven rains of raindrop, and stopped by the staircase.

The window of the back seat has already been lowered. I bend over to have a look inside, it's Evan's distinctive jawline.

Evan: It's not far from the airport from here, so I dropped by on my way after seeing your message when I landed.

The exhibition center is located in the city, so it can't be considered as "on his way".

I can only see his eyes after lowering my body a little. Before I can even speak, a smile surfaces under the golden rim.

Evan: Get in the car.

After putting on my seatbelt, Evan have instead not driving in a hurry, but have instead opened the center console , and took out a bowl of dessert. 

You: Is it for me?

Evan: Didn't you say you wanted to drink something sweet on the phone?

Taking the paper bowl from the paper bag, the name of the shop printed on it seemed familiar. Fingertips stunned slightly, and lifted the cover up.

A warmth fragrance spreads everywhere, and pulled out my blurry memories.

You: Is this... that shop that sells shaved ice*?

*T/N: Reference from Chapter 3-01.

Evan: Mm.

Back then, it wasn't long since I just joined Warson. Evan accompanied me to rent a house, us hiding under a narrow desserts stall in hunger-- It seemed like it was also a rainy day in my impression.

But it was shaved ice that were filled with fruits back then, and right now it's a warm red bean soup.

I'm afraid it'll be too hot, so I took a light sip. It's very soft, and it's not sweet, so I sent them into my mouth a spoonful after another.

Evan: You're so focused while eating, what's on your mind?

You: I'm thinking about a gift in return.

I pointed at the red bean soup in my hand, putting on a look as if I've taken advantages from him.

Evan: Looks like you've thought of a good idea.

Zhou Yan in the driver's seat lowered the separator, and handed a vibrating phone to Evan.

Evan: I'm sorry, can you wait for me for a little?

He switched the phone from his left ear to his right, gaze lingering over the few stacks of thick documents.

You: Do you want this?

I pointed at the proposal document beside him, the person in front of me smiled and received it.

He listened as he gave simple replies, flipping the table board's documents as he leave marks on them speedily.

Raindrops splatter and hopped on the tightly shut car window, veiling a layer of light specks to the nighttime GuangQi.

I stared at it quietly for a moment, yet I can't help to slightly avert my gaze towards Evan, and coincidentally saw him hanging up the call and looking over. 

Evan: You were peeking at me?

I quickly gazed away from him, feeling a little guilty.

You: If you weren't looking at me, how would you know I was looking at you? How's everything, are they solved?

Evan: Mm, there's something urgent that requires approval, I'll confirm it again when I'm back to the office.

Words paused for a moment, Evan suddenly opened his palm towards me.

You: ?

Evan: Weren't you gifting something in return?

He spoke as he extended his palm a little closer towards me, and looked at me intently.

Our gazes exchanged for a few seconds, and placed my phone onto his palm.

The screen brightens up, memo filled with many proposals of outings.

You: Then what if... I said I wanted to celebrate your birthday for you, does this count as a gift in return? Isn't it your birthday next weekend?

Evan stunned a little, then followed with a faint smile.

His gaze drifted, as if he's looking into the deepest parts of the misty rain behind me.

Evan: Yeah, it's almost my birthday. So, are you giving me the power of choice for the outing?

You: Originally yes.

My fingers gently tapped to remove the list of choices, the list of plans became empty in an instant.

You: But now, these are all scraped.

I smiled slyly, quickly took out a book of memo pads from my bag, and torn off a few pages.

You: Why is my pen missing...

Evan: Use mine.

Evan handed his pen to me, fingertips gently brushed across my palm, it's the one he used earlier.

You: I'll write 10 locations, and you write 10 things that you wanted to do. After folding them we'll pick them randomly at the same time, and celebrate your birthday with these combination!

Seeing Evan giving no response, I supported my chin with my arm and leaned closer to him.

You: Afraid now?

Hearing the word "afraid", Evan imitated me and leaned closer.

Evan: What do you think?

He smiled in amusement, and I can feel his warm breath.

I retracted my gaze shyly, then pushed the memo papers to him. For a moment, there are only sounds of writing in the car.

Evan: You've planned for so long, isn't it a pity to delete them suddenly?

I shook my head, only to speak after thinking for a while.

You: Not at all, I was just thinking, you are always very busy on a daily basis. If your birthday is also just a to-do list, then it isn't any different from usual days. Am I correct, CEO Lu?

The pen makes its last stroke on the memo pad, the streetlights outside the car swayed, and shone into his gentle eyes.

Shuffling the folded little papers, Evan and I each picked four papers in the stash of locations and activities.

The matched papers are placed on the table in pairs, like the test papers waiting for its results to be revealed.

Evan: Looks like you're more nervous than I do.

You: I was thinking, how about we make it a challenge until the end?

Evan: Make it a challenge until the end?

You: Yeah, would you be willing to not look at the content of the notes for now? Let me sort the results first, then take a look at the locations in advance, and keep the surprise for you until the day of your birthday.

Evan lifted an arm and ruffled my hair.

Evan: Sure, then I'll leave myself to your care.

As our fingertips intertwined, through this pen that still has some of the lingering warmth remaining, I tapped his palm.

You: No problem! It will definitely be the most special birthday, I promise.

Evan: Being with you itself would be the most special birthday I can have.

A slit opens from the car window, the night breeze disperses his smiling tone.