There were also times when they agreed to go home together for a meal. Whenever Zheng Yao hadn’t finished her work, she would always ask Zhao Ran to wait for a while before heading home together.
Since she lived relatively close, Zheng Yao often walked to and from work. On the occasional times they returned together, she would catch a ride in Zhao Ran’s car.
“If there’s nothing else, I’ll head back first.”
“Mhm, alright.”
Back in the office, Li Na asked quietly, “What did she want you for?”
“I’m going on a business trip with Director Zhao,” Zhao Ran replied.
“I knew it. It’s about time you got some experience. Otherwise, if you can’t do anything, how are we supposed to promote you in the future?” Li Na said with a laugh.
“You’re overthinking things, big sis,” Zhao Ran replied helplessly.
“Perfect. Your Brother Wang said he’d like to treat you and Yue Yue to dinner tonight. It’s been a while since we last got together. Seven o’clock, usual spot. Since you’re going on a business trip tomorrow, we can consider it a send-off,” Li Na told Zhao Ran.
“Mhm, sounds good. By the way, how’s the renovation of your new place coming along? When can we go to your new home for a meal?” Zhao Ran asked.
“It’s almost done. The furniture’s all moved in. We’re just waiting for the smell to air out before we move in. Since we’re getting off early today, help me move a few pots of pothos plants over later. I’ll show you my new place,” Li Na said with a smile.
“Looks like this meal isn’t free after all.”
“Mhm, you’re not getting a free ride, haha.”
After work, Zhao Ran visited Li Na’s new home and remarked with admiration, “Looks like Brother Wang is doing pretty well for himself. A three-bedroom, two-living-room apartment in a prime location—not bad at all.”
“Not bad my ass. We’ve got a thirty-year mortgage. I have to help pay it off too. It’s not like you guys—you’ll probably pay off the entire mortgage right after getting married. Having money really is better,” Li Na said with a hint of envy.
Zhao Ran chuckled. “We’re still far from that point. Hey, this study room is nicely decorated.” He quickly changed the subject.
Li Na placed the pothos on the bookshelf and said, “Pfft, what are you afraid of? It’s not like I’m going to borrow money from you. If you like it, you can stay here. Next time your Brother Wang gets you drunk, you can just crash here and sleep.”
As she bent over to dust the bookshelf, her black leggings accentuated her slender, straight legs. She wore a pair of high-heeled leather boots, and her khaki short skirt hugged her curvaceous hips.
“I’m not used to sleeping alone. Why don’t you come keep me company then?” Zhao Ran blurted out.
In truth, since that night they had spent together, their daily lives hadn’t changed much. Their relationship had simply grown closer. With the New Year approaching, Li Na and Brother Wang had been busy buying and renovating their new home.
Whenever they had meals, it was always with all four of them together. The two had never made plans to meet alone, so opportunities to be together were rare. Today was a coincidence; otherwise, they would have headed straight to the restaurant.
The words were already out. Li Na straightened up and turned to look at him. Zhao Ran stepped forward, wrapped his arms around her, and kissed her lips. Li Na responded by parting her lips and meeting his tongue with her own.
Before long, his hands were roaming all over her body, caressing her until she felt weak and pliant.
“Did you miss me?” Zhao Ran whispered softly in her ear.
“We see each other every day… mhm… what’s there to miss?” Li Na replied, her voice trembling slightly.
“I meant here.” Zhao Ran’s hand had already found its way between her legs, rubbing her gently over her leggings.
Li Na let out a soft moan and whispered shyly, “Mhm, I did… I missed you.” Zhao Ran whispered something else in her ear, and Li Na giggled coyly. “You’re so annoying. You’re always full of tricks. Sit down.”
As she spoke, Zhao Ran pulled his pants down to his ankles and sat on the edge of the furniture.