Fascination

Darkness enveloped the night sky.

In Beilin City, a CBD office building was still brightly lit. 
(CBD refers to the central business district in the city)

After finishing her third coffee of the night, Ji Xi sat up straight in front of her desk, her slender fingers skillfully tapping on the keyboard.   

Report writing, a basic task that is both boring and tedious, was usually the responsibility of the interns.

Ji Xi was part of the latest batch of interns who joined ZY Finance. She was currently a third-year graduate student, about to finish her program soon.

ZY Finance was China’s first-rate venture capital firm, and those who worked at ZY were usually labeled as elites.

Just being able to intern at ZY was already an enviable thing. Of course, it was another matter to be able to become a full-time employee. The amount of full-time job offers yearly at ZY capital has always been pitifully small. 

The newcomers were able to enter ZY were typically separated into two types. One type being second generation rich with connections and resources, placed on projects once they enter the company. The other type being honor students from prestigious schools—with at least a postgraduate qualification—whom who strict requirements of their own academic performance.

Although it was unfair, it was reality. People born with golden spoons are an asset themselves.

Ji Xi was not born with a golden spoon. She was considered the second type.

Late into the night, the office was quiet.

“Xiao-ji.” Shao Yu peered over at Ji Xi. Seeing her serious demeanor, he asked quietly, “Are you done yet?”

Shao Yu was the consumer group’s investment manager, Ji Xi’s immediate supervisor.

Ji Xi continued to type, concentrating entirely on the paper. For the past two hours, she hadn’t changed her posture even once. 

“Xiao-ji, just send the document to my email directly when you’re done.” Shao Yu had no choice but to raise his voice, “I’m going off work first.”

Only then did Ji Xi look up. She smiled and said, “Okay, I’ll send it to your email when it’s done.”

“Then I’ll see you tomorrow.” Shao Yu grabbed his briefcase and smiled, thinking to himself that this girl was very interesting. She was like a robot when she works, with extraordinary focus. 

It was hard to meet such an enthusiastic newcomer.

The consumers group has picked up a treasure.

Shao Yu has been at ZY for almost four years and mentored many interns. It was the first time he’s has met a newcomer who could endure this many hardships without any complaints, not to mention she was a girl.

He used to be prejudiced in the past, thinking that girls were not suitable for this line of work as it was both difficult and tiring. He’s since changed his perspective.

After all, it depends on the person, regardless of the gender.

After the report was completed and email was sent, the day of work finally ended. Ji Xi breathed a sigh of relief, tiredness sinking in. It would be a lie to say she wasn’t tired working in a high pressure and high stress environment every day.

The office was enveloped in silence, everyone was off work already. A cold white light spread over the gray and white office area, which was exceptionally deserted.

Simply tidying up her desk, Ji Xi was the last one to leave the office.

At the elevator entrance, a few people were chatting quietly while waiting for the elevator. 

“I’m exhausted, working overtime until this late.”

“The one from the consumer group seems to be still working. I’m impressed.”

“Is she that busy? Full time employees aren’t even as busy. She makes us look like we’re lazy.”

“Honestly though, she very pretty. I think she was a campus belle. She has to be the prettiest in our company?”

“Try your shot if you’re interested. You still have a chance. I heard she’s still single.”

“Oh, don’t say, it’s good to be pretty. All you have to do is smile at the director, and you’ll be able to work on the project directly. While we can only do needless tasks day after day.”

The three conversing were from the same batch of interns, all guys.

There existed a degree of gender discrimination in the finance industry. It was obvious males account for most of the industry, while females have to be exceptionally talented if they want to stand out.

There were only two females in ZYs management.

Ji Xi stood not far away. Her footsteps grew deliberately heavier, her high heels making a crisp sound upon contact with the porcelain floor, which echoed in the corridor, attracting attention from the others.

The three guys turned their heads over and upon seeing Ji Xi, immediately stopped their conversation. Putting on a smile, they greeted her, “Goddess, you’re off too?”

Coincidentally, the elevator came at that time.

Ji Xi glanced over at them, lips curving up perfunctorily. A professional fake smile is a must-have in the workplace.

Walking into the elevator gracefully, Ji Xi pressed on 1F, acting as if she hadn’t heard anything. She never did care about those insignificant gossip.

May was Beilin’s most comfortable time. The temperature was just right, neither too hot nor too cold.

Line 3 was congested as usual. People crowded each other. If there were dirty footprints on one’s shoes, it was often unknown who stepped on it.

After exiting the subway exit, the air was instantly fresh, as the evening breeze was blowing warmly from ahead. Ji Xi brushed the loose strands of her long hair blown by the breeze, revealing a smooth and beautiful forehead.

She was not tired anymore.

Only her stomach was empty, so she was hungry.

The streets outside the campus north gate were very lively—barbecue, malatang, fried skewers, all kinds of late-night snacks were available. It was easy to find something to fill the stomach.

Ji Xi was used to saving time and trouble. She went into the convenience store and grabbed a box of instant noodles, asking the worker to help her pour some hot water.

After three minutes, the noodles were ready to eat.

Ji Xi was sitting at the bar by the window, eating while browsing the latest financial news and industry information on her phone.

The noodles were steaming hot. One sip of the soup and it warmed her down to the stomach. She has loved eating hot food ever since she was young. No matter if it was the winter or the summer, the hotter the food the better, as it gave her a sense of warmth and relief.

The phone suddenly started to vibrate. The screen notified her of an incoming call, displaying: Jiang Nian.

Ji Xi finished her last bite of the noodles before taking the phone call and placing it next to her ear, Jiang Nian.

The voice on the other end of the phone was clear and straightforward: “Are you off work yet? Come and play. I’m at Shiguang. You will regret it if you don’t come.”

She originally wanted to rest early tonight, but considering Jiang Nian’s words, she eventually agreed, “Alright, I’ll come right now.”

The finance industry was dependent on connections. It was always better to know more people, so socialization was essential.

Ji Xi was popular with many friends, but she did not have many close friendships.

Jiang Nian was possibly Ji Xi’s only close friend. They’ve already known each other for six years.

They were both alumni of the same class from Q university. Ji Xi was in the School of Economics and Management, while Jian was in the Academy of Fine Arts.

During her second year of college, Ji Xi would often go to the Academy of Fine Arts to listen in on classes. Coming and going, she and Jiang Nian eventually got closer. After graduating from undergrad, Ji Xi continued her education as a graduate student, while Jiang Nian started a business and became a boss.

Jiang Nian was from Beilin originally, with a wealthy family. Her parents were both influential figures in in the investment and financial industry. However, Jiang Nian did not do this line of work. Instead, she was determined and worked as a tattoo artist for a short period of time. She has now opened her own tattoo studio.

Because of Jiang Nian, Ji Xi had the opportunity to interact with people in the industry that she would not be able to meet alone.

Jiang Nian was very good friend. Knowing that Ji Xi wanted to develop in the financial industry, she would introduce her to some friends and acquaintances in the industry from time to time.

Ji Xi first returned to her dorms to change out of her dress shirt into a more casual attire more suitable for clubbing.

A dress and suit jacket.

Refreshing and professional.

Shiguang was a famous bar at the Third Ring Road, not too far from Q University. Ji Xi was familiar with Shiguang, as she used to work part time there as a bartender.

Understanding alcohol and being able to drink alcohol was an advantage.

Ji Xi knew exactly what she wanted, and everything she does was to get closer to her goal. She was completely determined.

After entering Shiguang in her high heels, Ji Xi took off the coat she was wearing and hung it on her arm. She only wore a thin strapped dress, that tightly hugged her body.

With a height of 170 cm and slender waist and long legs, the colorful lights defined her gorgeous figure and facial appearance, attracting many people’s attention.

As Ji Xi walked through the club with her shoulders exposed, the frequency at which people turned to look at her was very high. The reason was not only because she was pretty, but more importantly, because of the tattoo on her left shoulder.

A large piece of tattoo, which was very eye catching.

It was a red spider lily, coquettish and brilliant. It extended from the heart, bypassed the collarbone, and climbed on the slender shoulder. Like fire, it was sketched onto her skin, covering at least half of her shoulder.

Like a smudged ink painting, it was quite artistic.

“The main character’s here.”

“Over here–“

It was Jiang Nian’s voice.

Ji Xi saw Jiang Nian holding a cup of wine, waving towards her.

However, as she walked closer…

“You’re so pretty today. This is for you, ninety-nine roses.”

Ninety-nine red roses, bundled and exquisite, bright and lovely. Ji Xi sensed something was wrong and did not rashly take it.  

The sender of the red roses was a girl. Her face was flushed red, seemingly have drunk some alcohol already.

The girl was very straightforward. As she gave the roses, she went straight to the point.

“Ji Xi, I like you.”

As soon as these words came out, the atmosphere was instantly ignited, and the party completely transformed into a confession.

“Actually, I wanted to chase you from the moment we first met. I’m not used to beating around the bush. Give me a chance, be my girlfriend, or I’ll be your girlfriend. You choose one.”

So many options to choose from.

Everyone watching erupted in laughter.

It didn’t seem like she was joking.

Ji Xi looked at the roses, and then looked over at Jiang Nian. This time, she’s been completely duped by Jiang Nian, who said she will regret it if she didn’t come.

Jiang Nian made an innocent expression, looking helpless.

The group of onlookers were more excited than the participants.

“Say yes!’

“Choose one!”

“Say yes!”

They erupted in cheer.

They attracted many onlookers, with some even taking out their phones to record them. Its normal to see a handsome guy ask out a pretty girl but it was oddly satisfying seeing a pretty girl ask another pretty girl out.

Ji Xi was unfazed as it wasn’t her first time being confessed to by a girl. She was so calm she seemed like an outsider.

After she went to college, she discovered it was normal and common for girls to like girls, and for guys to like guys. Not to mention, Jiang Nian was also a lesbian.

Ji Xi’s reaction let the other person think there was still a chance.

The girl asked, “So you agree?!”

Resulting in–

“I’m sorry, I’m straight. I’ve never even considered dating. You’re very talented, you will be able to meet a girl that is suitable for you.” Ji Xi’s wording was tactful, concise yet logical. After finishing her words, the other girl had nothing to say.

Jiang Nian truthfully admired Yu Xi’s calm demeanor. To be precise, she’s never seen Ji Xi frantic or nervous before.

She was indeed the ice beauty recognized by everyone at Q University.

This confession ended on a good note, as they continued to be friends. But this incident made the atmosphere somewhat awkward, hence the party broke up not long after.

Jiang Nian had already guessed what would happen tonight.

She knew Yu Xi was hard to chase, because she’s pursued her before, and wasn’t able to sway her at all.

Jiang Nian wasn’t someone that would hang onto the same tree without any results.  After she understood Ji Xi would never be her woman, she realized it was more comfortable to simply be friends.

Although they’ve known for many years, Jiang Nian didn’t dare say she understood Ji Xi well.

Yu Xi was very talented, a goddess that was a prodigy, a prodigy that was a goddess. However, it seemed as if…

She was an emotionless robot.

She used to be obsessed with studying in the past, and now she was obsessed with work. She has always been tight-lipped about her emotions and relationships.

Jiang Nian wondered more than once whether Ji Xi had been hurt emotionally, resulting in her personality now.

Jiang Nian has even asked her about this before.

Ji Xi said she had not.

But Jiang Nian felt even more strongly that she’s been deeply hurt emotionally.

The onlookers all scattered. Ji Xi asked, “You called me here for this?”

“She forced me. It won’t happen again, I promise!” Jiang Nian first emphasized her innocence before adding, “In addition, what if you did like her?  I only had good intentions. I’m trying to care about your lifelong happiness.”

Ji Xi glanced over at Jiang Nian. She only wanted to watch the fun, yet she was still able to make up such a clear and refined excuse.

“Why didn’t you agree to her? I can tell she liked you a lot. you’re both single, there’s no harm in trying.”

Ji Xi couldn’t say anything.

“Is it because she’s a girl?” Jiang Nian prattled on, “What year is it even, there’s no need to dead set on gender. Girls are so gentle and considerate, you’ll know once you try it.”

Ji Xi never even considered dating, much less explored her own sexuality.

She was unable to expand on this topic and could not discuss it with Jiang Nian.

Jiang Nian belonged to the type of people who would die if she did not date. Ji Xi was more rational. Falling in love was a project with high investment, high risk and low return. She did not have the energy to think about it, nor was she interested in thinking about it.

“Can we change the topic?”

“Honestly, have you never thought about why you would always get confessed to by women?” Jiang Nian asked back.

Ji Xi corrected her, “If I add you, it’s only been two.”

 Jiang Nian looked Ji Xi up and down for a while before she analyzed professionally, “You give off a gay vibe. It’s like, that feeling do you understand?”

 Jiang Nian had to admit, Yi Xi’s neat temperament and cold and dashing personality was very attractive in the lesbian community. Even she was attracted.

Ji Xi replied, “I don’t.”

Jiang Nian changed her words, “Then let me introduce you to a rich handsome guy, to enrich your life.”

Ji Xi replied quietly again, “I’m not interested.”

She had a face both men and women were interested, yet she was not interested in either. Jiang Nian thought about it, wasn’t this a waste of resources?

“Miss Ji, do you not have any other interests besides work and drawing? you’re going to be old and alone.”

Jiang Nian was not wrong. Besides earning money and drawing, other things were not of interest or care to Ji Xi.

“I haven’t seen you in a long time, let us get something to drink instead.” Ji Xi eventually succeeded in changing the topic.

“Of course, lets drink until we drop then.”

“I’m going to go to the restroom first,” Ji Xi stood up.

“I’m going too.”

Jiang Nian went to the restroom to touch up on her makeup. She explained to Ji Xi it was already been half a year gap since her last relationship, and if she continued to remain single, she will actually go crazy. She needed to always keep beautiful, to welcome any fated peach blossoms possibly coming her way.  

Ji Xi listened to her and did not offer any feedback.

In the restroom.

“Are you done yet?” Ji Xi grabbed a napkin and wiped her wet hands.

Jiang Nian narcissistically scanned herself left and right in the mirror, “Almost, why don’t you go out first.”

“I’ll wait for you outside.”

Ji Xi rolled the napkin in her hand into a ball and threw it in the trashcan. At that time, she received a WeChat message; someone in the department group chat had mentioned her, to ask about her work progress. Looking down to reply to the message, she walked out of the restroom.

Not paying any attention as she rounded the corner, she suddenly crashed into someone head-on recklessly.

It hurt a little.

Seeing the other person was not able to stand steady, Ji Xi immediately reached out to embrace her. Her hand was upon her waist, as she kindly gave her a hand.

Just like that, the two of them were stuck together.

Their faces were very close.

The fragrance of perfume mixed with the smell of alcohol wafted over. The faint yet refreshing fragrance could only be smelled with close proximity.

Ji Xi would also use some perfume typically, and it was similarly faint.

The right fragrance makes people feel comfortable, so although Ji Xi was used to maintain a distance from other people, she did not resist this hug.

“I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry.”

The two voices joined together gently and softly, unexpectedly in harmony.

Ji Xi was about to distance herself, but when she looked up at the person in her arms, she was stunned.