A Rare Affection

Years after graduating, Fang Jialu feels like she has achieved nothing.

She works as a temporary clerical assistant at a state-owned company in her hometown, and despite years of trying, she still can't pass the civil service exam.

Her mother introduces her to a tutor who is younger than her, tall, and handsome, but a little too flirtatious.

At their first proper meeting, Lin Chenxu pins Fang Jialu against the door.

"Are you really here just to study?" His voice is low and seductive.

Fang Jialu frowns, a little annoyed. "If I'm not here to study, what else would I be here for?"

A playful glint flashes in Lin Chenxu's eyes. "Maybe you came specifically to see me."

Fang Jialu finds it a little funny. "Little brother, you're quite the joker. Why would I come specifically to see you when I have a boyfriend?"

Lin Chenxu smiles meaningfully, an air of recklessness hard to hide in his eyes. "Oh, so you have a boyfriend."

*

Fang Jialu met her graduate-student boyfriend through a matchmaking date. He always encouraged her to take the civil service exam, but after she failed once again, he cheated on her.

Lin Chenxu takes Fang Jialu to catch them in the act, thinking everything will fall into place. But he never expects her to quietly quit her job and leave her hometown.

"If we'd already broken up, why didn't you come to me?" Lin Chenxu grips Fang Jialu's shoulders tightly, the corners of his eyes red.

"Why would I come to you?" The scorching warmth against her neck and shoulder makes Fang Jialu's heart pound, but the last thread of reason still holds her back.

Lin Chenxu presses the tip of his nose against her face. His hot breath nearly suffocates her, and for once his voice is earnest and humble. "Sis, could you trust me just once?"

Theme: Don't let other people's opinions decide how you live your life.