Seventeen Again: The Sweet Life with My Family

Chapter 157: On the Way

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Wen Nian smiled as she responded, “Hello.”

Wen Nian was not accustomed to such intimate gestures from unfamiliar people, but before she could withdraw her hand, Shen Jun forcefully pulled Jin Ting’s hand away and frowned, saying, “Do you have no sense of personal space? Must you stick so closely everywhere you go?”

Shen Jun didn’t believe in coincidences. He was convinced that Jin Ting’s appearance was somehow related to his mother. In his mind, he silently cursed himself for not being more vigilant even during phone conversations at home, resolving to be more cautious in the future.

Shen Jun’s tenderness and care were reserved solely for Wen Nian. As he forcefully pulled Jin Ting’s hand, she felt as if her arm might break, a mix of grievance and a hint of flirtatious petulance in her expression.

She narrowed her eyes at Shen Jun, but in reality, she had already scolded him harshly in her mind. She wished Wen Nian could torment Shen Jun whenever she’s free.

The atmosphere in the private room immediately turned slightly awkward. Sensing the tension, Jiang Zhen quickly stepped forward to ease the situation.

Jiang Zhen draped his arm around Shen Jun’s shoulder and settled onto the sofa. “Come on, let’s all take a seat. We’re not leaving until we’re all completely drunk tonight!”

Shen Jun guided Wen Nian to take a seat beside him. The five of them hadn’t seen each other for half a year. As Shen Jun engaged in conversation with the others, it was inevitable that he couldn’t fully include Wen Nian in every interaction.

Taking advantage of the moment, Jin Ting sat next to Wen Nian. She retrieved her phone and proactively suggested, “Sister, let’s exchange WeChat. Since you’re with Brother Shen Jun, it’s inevitable that you’ll be joining gatherings like ours in the future. We’re friends now, so if you have any questions or need help, feel free to ask me.”

The love rival is asking to add her on WeChat?!

Unaware of Jin Ting’s intentions, Wen Nian briefly lowered her gaze before retrieving her phone with a smile. After all, exchanging pleasantries was a common courtesy. She smiled and responded, “Sure, 1 appreciate your help in the future. Thank you.”

Jin Ting’s primary objective for the day was to successfully add Wen Nian as a friend on WeChat. Once accomplished, she felt a sense of satisfaction and her mood improved. She even went on to sing a few songs together with Wen Nian, fostering a more cheerful atmosphere.

As Shen Jun noticed that it was already past midnight, he informed the group, “I have some commitments tomorrow, so 1 need to leave now.”

Xue Jiang cast a knowing glance at Shen Jun. He had been observant since the beginning, noticing that even while Shen Jun engaged in conversation with them, his gaze would occasionally drift towards Wen Nian.

Xue Jiang had a hunch that Shen Jun’s decision to leave early had something to do with Wen Nian. Although Shen Jun had provided a reason, he sensed that there was an underlying connection between them that prompted his early departure.

Jiang Zhen checked the time and couldn’t help but complain, “You’ve only been here for an hour, and now you’re leaving already?!”

Zhou Xi, too, glanced at Shen Jun with surprise. “Come on, have some more fun. You’ll be heading back to Hai City in a few days,” she suggested, urging him to stay a bit longer and enjoy himself.

Lin Yang, who was enjoying himself, couldn’t help but sound disappointed upon hearing Shen Jun’s decision. He exclaimed, “Exactly! Why are you leaving so early?”

In order to keep Wen Nian accompanied, Shen Jun had declined their invitations many times. He responded to his friend, “I do have something important tomorrow. But before I leave, 1’11 make it up to you by setting up a gathering soon.”

Only after Shen Jun made his promise did they reluctantly let him go. Jin Ting also bid farewell to everyone and rushed out of the private room, chasing after Shen Jun.

When Lin Yang saw this, he scratched his head. “This situation is quite confusing.”

Jiang Zhen grinned and teased, “Don’t strain your little piggy brain. Even if you scratch your head bald, you won’t come up with anything worthwhile.”

Not backing down, Lin Yang playfully placed his arm around Jiang Zhen’s neck and fired back, “You tubby guy. Can’t you go a day without insulting me? Are you that bored?”

Zhou Xi grabbed a handful of potato chips from the coffee table and threw them at the two of them. “Enough, you two. Can’t you see that Shen Jun’s behavior this time is quite unusual?”

Lin Yang was taken aback for a moment. “Are you suggesting that he has been avoiding our gatherings since he returned? But didn’t Shen Jun mention that he was quite busy during the winter break?”

Zhou Xi playfully rolled his eyes at Lin Yang’s response and turned to Xue Jiang, nudging him with his elbow. “Hey, Old Xue, what’s your take on this?”

Xue Jiang looked up at Zhou Xi and offered his speculation. “1 have a feeling that it has something to do with that girl, Wen Nian.”

Lin Yang’s eyes widened in surprise. “Shen Jun wants to have a serious relationship with that girl? 1 find it hard to believe. Given his family’s prestigious background, it’s unlikely that a girl from a modest family could fit into his future plans.”

Xue Jiang raised his eyebrows and offered a piece of advice. “I suggest we focus on the present and treat Wen Nian with respect, regardless of what might happen in the future.”

Lin Yang remained skeptical of Xue Jiang’s perspective, and Jiang Zhen had joined forces with Lin Yang, sharing the same doubts on the matter.

Zhou Xi was deep in thought as he recalled the phone call he received from Zhao Jiao two days ago.

Since Shen Jun couldn’t drive after drinking, he took the responsible step of hiring a designated driver from the parking lot. Prioritizing safety, he ensured that he and Wen Nian would have a safe ride back home.

Jin Ting hurriedly caught up with Shen Jun and Wen Nian. “Brother Shen Jun, can you give me a ride too? My house is on the way.”

Shen Jun turned towards Jin Ting, his expression serious and his voice low. “Go find the person who sent you here to give you a ride..”