Straightforward red-haired top × cool and composed bottom
In Xuexiao's seventy-second year of peaceful retirement on Guizhen Island, two things disrupt his life:
First, a new neighbor moves in across the way. They say he's the ancient ferocious beast Huodou. He loves setting kitchens on fire and is always staring at Xuexiao.
Second, this red-haired, golden-eyed neighbor always shows up right on time for meals and shamelessly invites himself to dinner.
Later, entries like these begin appearing in Xuexiao's diary:
"Today, Yinzhuo burned another pot."
"But he learned to make dumplings."
"His hands are so warm."
Later still, the other residents of Guizhen Island discover that...
The once-temperamental Huodou now gets up early to make porridge for Xuexiao, carefully weeds his medicinal garden, and immediately moves more gently whenever Xuexiao frowns.
And the always-cool and distant Bai Ze has gradually warmed around the eyes. Whenever Yinzhuo comes close, the tips of his ears turn red.
"Xuexiao, can I kiss you?"
"...Do as you like."
The best retirement is having a garden, a home, and a loved one.
Theme: We must trust each other.
