Chapter 3

This was the first time I hung up the phone since discovering Zhou Jingcheng’s infidelity.

Before, it was me who bombarded him with calls and messages.

I used the most venomous words to curse him and the most sorrowful voice to plead with him.

But each time, Zhou Jingcheng would impatiently say:

“Can you stop acting like a lunatic and talk to me when you’re calm?”

Then he would mercilessly end the call.

No matter how many times I called or messaged, he ignored them all.

I wanted to, but the thought of our many years of relationship ending this way was unbearable.

I couldn’t control myself.

I wanted to question Zhou Jingcheng about why he betrayed me.

I also wanted to beg him to come back, promising I would forgive him.

But after all the resentment and waiting.

Zhou Jingcheng remained the same.

And I gradually became anxious and insecure, truly like he said.

Like a lunatic.

I muddled through a long period of time like this.

Immersed in this relationship that tormented me.

Until three days ago.

I stumbled upon a street interview video by a blogger named “Time Capsule.”

The question he asked was: “What would you say to yourself five years ago?”

Some said to study hard.

Some said they wished they had spent more time with family.

Some said their future self was great and outstanding, living up to their expectations.

…

Among these responses.

I saw Zhou Jingcheng and his young girlfriend, Lin Manman.

This made me believe it wasn’t scripted.

After all, given Zhou Jingcheng’s current status, even the top bloggers would need to schedule an interview with him.

But this blogger seemed to randomly interview passersby.

And happened to interview Zhou Jingcheng.

At the start of the video, Zhou Jingcheng appeared displeased with the interview.

It was Lin Manman beside him, her face full of delight and interest.

“This is so interesting, Ah Cheng, let’s play along.”

She shook Zhou Jingcheng’s arm, acting coyly.

Zhou Jingcheng looked helpless but indulgently agreed.

The blogger briefly introduced his identity and purpose, then asked the standard question.

Lin Manman fell into thought, and seeing her struggle, Zhou Jingcheng answered for her.

“If possible, I hope the Zhou Jingcheng from five years ago could meet Lin Manman sooner.”

As he said this, he held her close.

His voice was cool, yet it was easy to discern his protective affection for the girl.

Lin Manman, surprised, glanced at him and then shyly covered her mouth in agreement.

“Me too.”