Chapter 85: Another Time, Another You

“Understanding is key,” Lin Xian murmured as he carefully folded the painting and tucked it back into his black notebook. He planned to dispose of it once he left, aware that keeping it could only invite trouble.

He found Chu An Qing genuinely easygoing—humble, considerate, and full of empathy. In his mind, Lin Xian awarded her personality top marks.

Whenever he embarrassed himself, she was there to assist, providing a graceful way out without a hint of smugness. Lin Xian couldn’t help but envy Chu Shan He for having such a thoughtful daughter. He wondered if he might have one like her someday.

“Can you sign my Rhine Cat?” Chu An Qing asked with a giggle, offering a Rhine Cat doll. “This bun-haired, cheongsam-wearing Rhine Cat is my favorite. Maybe someday, when you’re a world-famous designer, this autographed cat will be worth a fortune! But I wouldn’t sell it. Having the creator’s signature makes it incredibly meaningful.”

“Of course,” Lin Xian responded, taking the Rhine Cat. He signed his name on the fabric tag, laughing, “Honestly, this is the first time I’ve signed a Rhine Cat. You’re the first to ask. Usually, people just appreciate the cat and don’t care about the designer.”

“Really? Could you add ‘NO.1′ on it too? That would make it even more special!”

“No problem,” Lin Xian said, his mood lifting. He added a small “NO.1” below his signature, marking it as his first-ever autograph. However, he doubted there would be a second. Unlike novels, designers rarely drew attention outside their industry. Even with icons like Hello Kitty, few knew it was created by Yuko Shimizu or that it was a Sanrio product.

“Here you go,” Lin Xian said, handing back the Rhine Cat.

“Thank you, senior!” Chu An Qing took the doll and waved. “I’m off then.”

“Take care,” Lin Xian replied, waving goodbye. He sighed in relief; having a rational, easygoing person like Chu An Qing around prevented potential misunderstandings. If she had been a spoiled brat, she might have made trouble by misinterpreting his actions.

“Chu Shan He raised his daughter well,” Lin Xian thought appreciatively.

Back home, Lin Xian freshened up quickly. It was only 5:10 PM, earlier than his last dream entry, but starting early was advantageous. He drew the curtains, climbed into bed, and closed his eyes.

...

...

...

Without the familiar summer breeze or the cicadas’ piercing calls, Lin Xian felt uneasy. The self-built houses around him blocked out the sunlight, casting a cool shadow over the village—a surprisingly comforting atmosphere.

Opening his eyes, Lin Xian found himself successfully back in the dream, in the narrow, crowded village. He checked his watch: 5:32 PM. About ten minutes remained until the thief who would steal Granny Li’s handbag appeared.

Hiding in an alley, Lin Xian leaned against a brick wall, waiting for the “Three-Sword Style Master” to show. This was his quickest link to Big Cat Face. As time ticked by, finally...

“Stop—stop thief! Stop... stop the... thief!” Granny Li’s panting voice echoed from outside the alley.

Lin Xian flexed his wrists, readying himself. “Finally, you’re here... Roronoa Zoro!”

This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation