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85: Growing Unease
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 86: Instigation
This comment by Serena was actually a gamble. Oliver had been behaving so strangely lately that unless she used the favor Lillian owed her to restrain her, she would begin to doubt whether Lillian had revealed her pregnancy to him. Ironically, although Lillian was her love rival, when it came to keeping her word, Serena still trusted her. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have gone out of her way to have Lillian owe her that favor in the first place. As expected, after her remark, the crowd became even more enthusiastic.“What status?” they teased, chuckling.“Serena, surely you're not implying that Oliver is now a taken man?” one quipped.“Heaven forbid, everyone knows Oliver only has eyes for you,” another laughed.“It’s just as well, Oliver and Lillian are just childhood friends, pals since diapers; where could there be any romance between them?”The comments flew back and forth, each one like a needle to Oliver’s pride, pricking him into glancing inadvertently at Lillian.Lillian appeared u
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 87: Looking for a Fight, Are We?
A hush descended upon the private room. The earlier revelry and spectators now silent as mice. An icy chill seemed to permeate the air. Oliver sat with a frosty glare fixed on the boisterous blonde, his eyes like piercing swords brimming with hostility. Her brazen boldness instantly withered under his gaze; she retracted within herself, too afraid to even peep—having accidentally locked eyes with him was like staring death in the face. She scuttled behind Serena. Serena’s smile was clearly faltering. Sneaking a glance at Suo Qiao, who’d taken refuge behind her, she had no choice but to plead with Oliver. "Oliver, please don’t be angry. Suo Qiao, she's...straightforward, but she means no harm. Suo Qiao, you need to apologize to Lillian now." With reluctance flaring in her eyes, apologizing to Lillian felt worse to Suo Qiao than death itself, but recalling Oliver’s terrifying stare prompted her to face Lillian and spit out a begrudging, "Sorry." "Lillian, Suo Qiao genuinely d
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 88: Sensing with the Heart
Whose gaze it was, was quite evident by now. But Lillian remained indifferent, cradling her glass and taking a small sip, just as delightful as the previous one.Seated closer now, Mason could see the rosy hue of her lips as she sipped from the glass, her lips stark against the rim, causing him to feel an inexplicable dryness in his throat.Mason adjusted his glasses, forcing his eyes away and asked in a hushed tone, “Does it not bother you anymore?”Lillian paused at the question.Mason’s lips quirked up into a half-smile, voice lowered, “I mean, everyone is saying such things, do you really not care?”The truth was, indifference was key to shrugging off others’ words, wasn’t it?Reflecting on this, her lips curved slightly, “It’s simply the truth.”Their marriage was a sham; what was the point in agonizing over it? What good would it do to care?Mason’s eyes, hidden behind his lenses, darkened subtly at her response. This Lillian was different, more disconcerting than he anticipated
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 89: To Thwart Future Troubles
Lillian cupped cool water to rinse her face, her emotions settling into a cool stillness. She leaned against the washbasin, studying her reflection in the mirror while Ji Qingbei's words echoed in her mind. To feel calmly and attentively? Feel what, exactly?She didn't quite comprehend his words which, coupled with the chaos of the crowded private room, were left unprobed.It was absurd, she thought. Ji Qingbei's intentions contrasted starkly with Oliver's. Was he trying to matchmake her with Oliver? And why not Serena?But she dismissed the thought. Dwelling on it was pointless.Drying her hands with a paper towel, she made for the exit."Serena, don’t beat yourself up over what happened today. It’s all my fault. If I hadn’t spoken carelessly, Oliver wouldn’t have lashed out at you."The familiar voice halted Lillian in her tracks. Standing rooted to the spot, she watched the group at the restroom entrance—Serena and her friends, including Suo Qiao, the one who’d nearly become viole
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit Chapter 90: How Will You Explain It?
Just as Serena was about to hit her head on the steps, she realized she'd miscalculated. She’d only intended to fall gently, not mar her beauty. In a gut reaction, she threw her hands up to protect her face, but the fall was still brutal. There was a thud that echoed, arresting the attention of everyone present. "Serena!" Her friends flocked around her as the rest of the group from the private room converged. Lillian stood still, her hand frozen in the air, her heart tightening. She had not even touched Serena. So, how did she fall? A twisted ankle, perhaps? Then, an icy voice cut through the buzz. "What happened?" Oliver and Mason were here. Oliver’s gaze swept over Lillian, her disheveled hair, and his expression darkened. He grasped her shoulders, straightening her stance. "Did she hit you?" In that moment, Lillian was stunned, her eyes wide with a mix of shock and uncertainty. Could it be that Oliver not
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 91: Does It Hurt?
Lillian remained silent, lost in contemplation. Sophie released a sigh through the phone. "I know she once helped you, and it's like you're seeing her through rose-colored glasses. But think about it, even her help back then had ulterior motives. Sure, we can repay her kindness in some other way, but that doesn't imply she won't harm you now.""I understand," Lillian nodded, albeit to herself.Sophie detected low spirits in Lillian's tone and suggested, "Why don't you come over tonight? We can talk. I can call in sick tomorrow, stay up all night with you.""No, it's alright," Lillian shook her head gently. "Grandma’s waiting at home. I can’t skip."And besides, the night's events had cleared away any illusions she might have harbored after Ji Qingbei's words. All fantasies were effectively shattered.Blame whom? Herself, for harboring hopes of impossibilities."Alright, then hurry back. It’s not good to sit outside the hotel in this wind. It's piercing my ears just hearing it; aren’t
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 92: Why Didn’t You Wait for Me?
With this in mind, Kartika averted her gaze, a veiled distance echoing in her voice, “Planning on settling down here long-term?”“Yeah, everything should be stable in about half a month.”At that, Kartika replied, “Then consider this an early congratulations on your return. However, I foresee my schedule being quite packed. It's unlikely I'll have spare time to hang out.”Dima needed no further hints to grasp the subtle rejection in Kartika’s tone. Yet, the impulsive youth he once was had evolved into a more patient man. Years had taught him not to rush things—for Kartika, he was willing to play a long game.“It's alright,” he maintained his calm, “We can catch up whenever you’re free. Just don’t forget this old friend, even after all these years."His unexpected composure left Kartika second-guessing her earlier assumption. Had she misunderstood his intentions?Quickly, she made peace with the idea. It was possible that Dima, after five years abroad, already had a girlfriend. The tie
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 93: Unguarded Remarks
Farhan's words paused, trailing off as they should have been followed by the revelation: I saw you come back in Dima's car.But the words never quite made it past his lips. Perhaps, he thought, she'd clarify things herself, especially after being dropped off right at their door.However, to Kartika's ears, she assumed he was broaching the topic of Lestari's accident. She was certain she hadn't pushed her, but there was little point in explaining—would he even believe her?He'd probably only believe in "his" Lestari, right?With this in mind, Kartika looked squarely at Farhan and retorted with a question of her own, "What did she tell you?""What?" Farhan was taken aback, his mind still preoccupied with her return in Dima's vehicle.After a beat, he caught up to what Kartika was asking about. "You mean Lestari?"The affection in his voice for Lestari didn't escape Kartika, prompting a mocking smile, "Yes. She got hurt, didn't she? If I told you she fell on her own, would you believe me
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Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 114: Just Hold Back for Now
The room fell silent at Su Qiao's unexpected suggestion. Everyone stopped to consider the possibility—Duan Ziye was a thug and literally a desperado, making him the perfect candidate for some dirty work.Lestari was shocked by Su Qiao's words and quickly tried to dissuade Duan Ziye from considering it. However, Duan Ziye was resolute in his conviction, indicating that he had never done anything significant for Lestari in the past but had sworn never to let anyone hurt her. If anyone dared, they would have to answer to him.Lestari's friends did not want her to speak well of Kartika anymore, asking Lestari what she had done to deserve Kartika's visit or any concern. The consensus was that since Kartika had not shown up for Lestari nor shown any remorse, she did not deserve any kindness in return.Lestari lowered her eyes in sadness, "I was just..."However, the others wouldn't let her finish. They knew of her kind nature, but they were not willing to be as forgiving if they were treate
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 113: Willing to Do Anything for Her
Su Qiao immediately stood up, ready to take action. "Is he still downstairs? I'll go send him away. What a toad lusting after a swan."Just as she was about to leave, Lestari stopped her. "Wait a second.""Let him come up," Lestari said quietly with an unexpected smile.The surprise in the room was palpable, voices raised in unison, "Lestari!?""Do you forget how he treated you before? Duan Ziye is a thug. If you let him come up, aren't you...""Su Qiao," Lestari's voice was gentle, "No matter how he treated me in the past, the fact that he found out I'm hurt and came to the hospital means he cares. Shouldn't I be touched by that? How can I send him away?"Others in the room were not convinced. "Lestari, he's not concerned about you; he's interested in you in that way. If you entertain him, he'll think he has a chance.""I know you're kind-hearted and think his visit is sincere, but if he had no ulterior motive, why would he come?""Don't be too soft-hearted. If he tries to do anythin
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 112: The Kiss Was Not Passionate Enough
Only Mrs. Qin was allowed to go inside for the check-up, while everyone else had to wait outside the examination room. Farhan, leaning against the window, absentmindedly touched his pocket and remembered it had been a long time since he last smoked. Though he had hardly been a heavy smoker, he’d completely quit just over a year ago, shortly after he and Kartika slept together by accident. Since then, he’d become almost addicted to her scent and the touch of her skin, and he began to kiss her every chance he got, at various times and places.After enduring a particularly grueling several-hour-long meeting that had left Farhan in a foul mood, he returned to his office looking to smoke for some relief. He had just lit a cigarette when Kartika walked in with some documents and, upon seeing him smoke, asked with concern, "Why are you smoking now? Are you feeling upset?"He didn’t respond, only staring at her with brooding dark eyes. At that time, Kartika and Farhan were on good terms, and
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 111: Can Also Get Hurt
Compared to Farhan's emotional upheaval, Kartika remained much more composed. "Just drive, we shouldn't delay Grandma's check-up."Without any outsiders around, Kartika didn’t feel the need to act, and her tone and expressions were genuine, no longer the performed warmth she'd held before. After asking him to drive, she noticed Farhan making no move to start the car, her brow slightly furrowing in impatience. She hadn't intended to confront Farhan so directly, but his words had been too aggravating, prompting her to snap...She scolded herself for losing composure especially when Grandma's check-up results were still unknown. Taking a deep breath to regain her calm, she was about to speak to Farhan when the car suddenly surged forward at high speed. Startled, Kartika turned towards Farhan and saw him driving furiously, his dark mood filling the car.Unexpectedly, Kartika felt a wave of immense grievance wash over her, and her nose tingled with the sensation of oncoming tears. Why, whe
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 110: Of Course We Give Her the Best
Mrs. Qin's embrace carried a refreshing scent of lemon, creating a relaxing atmosphere that made Kartika reciprocate the hug with warmth. Female elders always held a special place in Kartika's heart.Mrs. Qin noticed Kartika's affection and playfully tapped her nose. "Are you missing your mom?"Kartika was momentarily stunned by the reference to "mom" but then nodded in acknowledgment after regaining her composure. "Yes, I have missed you all.""Ah, sweet girl, we've missed you too," Mrs. Qin said, then pinched Kartika’s cheek, marveling at her soft skin. She grasped it a few more times before turning to Mr. Qin, "Did you bring the gifts for Kartika that we talked about?"Mr. Qin rummaged through his pocket and pulled out two small boxes. "I did."Mrs. Qin took the boxes and handed them over to Kartika. "Here, these are gifts from us on this trip."Kartika had always received gifts from Mr. and Mrs. Qin, even before marrying Farhan, and they had always been quite valuable. Mrs. Qin wo
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 109: Can You Bear to See Her with Someone Else?
After Kartika fell asleep, her breathing gradually became even and deep. Farhan moved to the other side of the bed, where she lay turned away from him, and discovered she was indeed sound asleep—not just asleep, but in a peaceful, deep slumber.Touching the cheek that Kartika had slapped earlier, Farhan's expression was somewhere between reality and doubt—was it not for a faint soreness, he would have thought the previous uproar was a mere illusion. After all, who falls asleep in one moment, deeply and without care, straight after being furious?Kartika's recent changes were so significant that Farhan felt he barely knew her. His heart was unsettled, his emotions with no outlet, yet as he watched her serene sleep, he found himself rendered speechless. When he finally left the bedside, he did so with an almost lighter step.Settling on the sofa outside, Farhan couldn't deny the wakefulness of his mind despite the late hour; Ji Qingbei's parting words at the bar repeated themselves in h
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 108: I Don't Really Like You
With these thoughts, Kartika let out a mocking laugh, her eyes looking at him with a cold intensity. "If you have needs, go to Lestari."Farhan's eyes darkened with a shadow of anger as he bit down hard. "I want you, no one else."Despite Kartika slapping him and telling him to leave, Farhan’s grip on her wrist tightened as he raised his voice in frustration. "Angry? Weren't you playing the role of the dutiful wife quite well these past days? Why stop acting now?"Furiously struggling against his grasp, Kartika no longer had any desire to reason with Farhan, her sole focus was to free herself.As he watched Kartika's vehement resistance, Farhan felt both irritated and pity. Recalling the recent conversations with Ji Qingbei and Mrs. Qin, he gripped her wrist tighter. "These were your own words before, so why are you angry now? Shen Nuonuo, what are you angry about?"He was trying to confirm something with his intense gaze. "Are you upset because I said you’re just a physiological need
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 107: It's Been a Long Time Since I Kissed Her
Gu Yanxi stormed off in a huff, leaving only Farhan and Ji Qingbei at the bar. Ji Qingbei glanced at Farhan, who seemed lost in thought, and thus refrained from initiating further conversation.After a short silence, Farhan asked in a low voice, "What did you mean by what you said just now?"Ji Qingbei's lips curved up slightly, "Don't you already know the answer?"Farhan looked up, his gaze heavy and dark, seeking clarification."What answer?""Farhan, do you remember the last time we were here I asked you if, after all these years, you still hadn't figured out what you really want?"Farhan paused, recalling that Ji Qingbei had indeed inquired the same. The question felt familiar from earlier in the evening with his grandmother. However, when Ji Qingbei had asked previously, Farhan didn't give it much thought and disregarded the remark.Observing Farhan's silence, Ji Qingbei sighed softly, "You've watched her grow up, you've seen her through every mood and phase, and you know her ins
Bump and Run: The Ex's Pursuit 106: You're Not Enchanted by Her, Are You?
The night was cool and calm as Gu Yanxi and Ji Qingbei made their way through the crowd towards the bar counter, following yet another call from Farhan in the dead of night.To their surprise, they expected to find a drunken Farhan but instead arrived to see him completely sober and immaculately dressed, sitting at the bar with a drink before him that had not been touched."What's going on? Didn't you call us here for a drink?" Gu Yanxi asked, puzzled.Approaching Farhan, Gu greeted him: "Farhan, what's up with you? Not a single sip yet?"Hearing the familiar voice, Farhan snapped back to reality, his eyes finding Gu Yanxi before turning questioningly towards Ji Qingbei as if to ask: Why did you bring him along?Ji Qingbei caught the look and quickly realized the situation. It seemed that Farhan had only summoned him, not Gu Yanxi, but by then it was too late to rectify the mistake. Both men, understanding the circumstance, chose not to comment any further.Gu Yanxi, ever the carefree
