Chapter 9

C9 – Ferula Jade FlowerUpdated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

While Ji Buyu was still sprinting across the sports field, his face flushed with exertion, Qin Hongyu had already whisked Bo Miaojiao away from the clamorous crowd.

Together, they strolled toward the orphanage, their silhouettes elongating under the faint glow of the street lamps.

“Ji Buyu’s a man of his word, alright. I scored two thousand yuan. Let’s go, I’m treating you to a feast!”

Qin Hongyu, clutching his phone, let out a goofy chuckle, then, without further ado, grabbed Bo Miaojiao’s hand and hailed a cab.

Before long, they found themselves amid the lively din of a bustling food stall.

“This is your idea of a feast?” Bo Miaojiao rolled her eyes in mock exasperation, though her face couldn’t hide her delight.

“How is this not a feast? There’s wine, meat, seafood, and even your beloved crawfish. You’re breaking my heart here!”

Qin Hongyu’s eyes widened in feigned surprise. He reached for a beer bottle nearby, ready to take a swig.

“You’re not drinking alcohol; you’re underage!”

“But seriously, why do I get the feeling you’re not too thrilled about awakening your Battle Spirit Bloodline? It’s almost as if you knew you had it all along...” Qin Hongyu mused, draining his milk with a thoughtful gulp, a look of curiosity washing over his face.

“No way...” Bo Miaojiao’s face flickered with emotion, but she quickly regained her composure and swiftly steered the conversation elsewhere. “Here, this is your birthday present.”

With that, she pulled a sachet from her backpack. It was adorned with a pink flower, though the stitching left much to be desired.

“I just knew you wouldn’t forget my birthday!” Qin Hongyu exclaimed, eagerly accepting the sachet and scrutinizing the embroidered design. “Is this a lotus?”

“Dunce, it’s a Ferula Jade Flower, my favorite. If you don’t like it, you can give it back,” Bo Miaojiao declared, hands on her hips and feigning annoyance.

“I love it – how could I not cherish something you’ve given me?”

Qin Hongyu quickly stashed the sachet in his backpack, as if safeguarding it from any second thoughts she might have.

The Lady Boss arrived with a steaming pot of spicy crayfish, her smile beaming. “Let me know if you need more!”

“Everything’s served, let’s dig in!” Qin Hongyu cheered, his eyes twinkling with anticipation.

Initially, Bo Miaojiao was mindful of her ladylike demeanor, but as the meal progressed, the sight of her pile of discarded shells dwarfed Qin Hongyu’s – it was a sight for sore eyes!

Once satiated, they hopped back into the car and headed to the orphanage, or more accurately, the Social Welfare Institute.