Since she was a little girl, Tian Xiaoyu had always been captivated by the stars. On her sixth birthday, her family surprised her with an astronomical telescope. From that moment on, she began exploring the mysteries of the night sky and learning to read the constellations.
When Tian Xiaoyu heard Chen Du's words, she was both thrilled and a bit embarrassed. After all, an astronomical telescope wasn't exactly cheap. "It's too expensive. I can't accept it," she said firmly.
Chen Du simply chuckled. "What's with all the formalities? It's just a telescope."
Seeing his casual demeanor, Tian Xiaoyu explained, "Chen Du, this is a top-tier, enthusiast-grade telescope. It costs at least a hundred thousand dollars—and that's being conservative."
Chen Du froze for a second. Clearly, his limited budget had stifled his imagination. He had assumed even the priciest telescopes would only set him back a few thousand dollars. But now, hearing it could be worth over a hundred thousand? Still, he brushed it off with a laugh. "Xiaoyu, I don't care about its value. In my hands, it's just scrap metal. With you, it'll actually serve a purpose. Besides, in this post-apocalyptic world, old prices mean nothing. I doubt this thing could fetch ten pounds of rice these days. Don't feel bad—just take it."
"Alright then, I'll take it. Thanks," Tian Xiaoyu replied, carefully stowing the telescope away. She didn't say more; the conversation had reached its natural end, and further words would only make things awkward.
As for the underground bunker blueprints, Chen Du tucked them back into his backpack. He and Tian Xiaoyu had already discussed it, agreeing that the bunker might not be useful right now. For now, it was best to keep it stored.
---
The flames engulfing the Scar Crew's base were fueled by gasoline. Without fire extinguishers, they showed no signs of dying down. Chen Du watched as the structure turned into charred ruins, then decided it was time to leave. He retrieved his car, started the engine, and gestured for Tian Xiaoyu to get in.
"Xiaoyu, the villa where our shelter is located is pretty far from here. If you're tired, you can lie down and rest in the car. I'll wake you when we arrive."
Tian Xiaoyu shook her head. "No way. I've been dizzy all day—I wouldn't be able to sleep even if I tried. I'll keep you company while you drive. Tell me, what have you been up to these past two years?"
Chen Du laughed. "Sure thing. It's been two years since we last saw each other. We've got plenty to catch up on. Buckle up, and we'll chat as we go."
With Tian Xiaoyu safely in tow, Chen Du drove toward the villa, the two of them chatting and laughing along the way.
It was Tian Xiaoyu's first time visiting Chen Du's shelter. The towering fortress walls didn't faze her, nor did the automatic defense systems. But when they entered the villa and she saw a woman with an elegant demeanor, her hair neatly tied up, dressed casually like the lady of the house, walking out to greet them, Tian Xiaoyu felt a flicker of unease.
Chen Du stepped forward, wrapped his arms around Xie Li, and kissed her forehead. "Did you miss me?" he asked softly.
Xie Li smiled. "Is there ever a time I don't miss you?"
Chen Du laughed heartily. Tian Xiaoyu followed behind, her expression slightly awkward as she approached the couple.
"Xiaoyu, let me introduce you. This is Xie Li, our team's doctor and my girlfriend. Xie Li, this is Tian…"
Before Chen Du could finish, Tian Xiaoyu interrupted, extending her hand with a warm smile. "Hello, I'm Tian Xiaoyu, Chen Du's classmate. It's a pleasure to meet you."
The two women shook hands. Xie Li grinned mischievously. "Chen Du talks about you all the time. You're every bit as charming as he described. When you have time, you'll have to share some of his embarrassing college stories—I'll put them to good use."
"I'd be happy to," Tian Xiaoyu replied with a grin. "I know a few of his misadventures."
As the two women laughed and chatted, they linked arms and walked into the villa together, leaving Chen Du standing alone in the courtyard.
Chen Du felt as though he were dreaming. Just moments ago, when Tian Xiaoyu and Xie Li had first met, he had sensed a hint of tension. But now, they were arm in arm, leaving him behind. His expression was a mix of confusion and amusement, but mostly relief. Their quick rapport meant fewer complications.
In the days that followed, with Tian Xiaoyu's arrival, Chen Du found himself evicted from his room by Xie Li, who moved him to another room along with his bedding. Chen Du was puzzled but received only a simple explanation: "We have plenty of rooms. Let's sleep separately."
Chen Du felt a pang of injustice. Xie Li had always been clingy, sometimes even waking him up in the middle of the night. But now, with Tian Xiaoyu here, he had been unceremoniously kicked out. Still, he complied, tidying up a new room and settling in.
For the next few days, Chen Du stayed home, spending time with the two women. Mornings began with breakfast prepared by Xie Li, followed by leisurely conversations with Tian Xiaoyu about the past. It was a peaceful existence—until it was abruptly shattered.
---
"Xiaoyu, are you absolutely certain about what you just said?" Chen Du's expression was grave as he looked at her, struggling to believe the terrifying revelation she had just shared.
Tian Xiaoyu nodded solemnly, her voice steady. "I'm sure. This will be nothing short of a disaster."