Chapter 58: On the Journey

Such simplicity was indeed characteristic of Summer Luo. Song Chengyi drew her closer into his embrace, then closed his eyes as well.

The next morning, when Summer Luo awoke, it was rare to find that Song Chengyi hadn’t gotten up before her. What surprised her even more was that she was lying completely in his arms. If she lifted her head slightly, she would brush against Song Chengyi’s chin. When she tried to withdraw her hand, she realized she was still holding onto him. She wished she could slap herself—how could she take advantage of someone in her sleep?

She wanted to move but dared not make too much commotion, for Song Chengyi’s other hand was resting on her waist. Though separated by fabric, Summer Luo felt as if her skin were burning. Nestled against him, she carefully stretched out her little hand, wanting to touch his eyelashes. How could a man have such long lashes? But just as she was about to touch them, Song Chengyi’s eyes suddenly opened, startling her so much she jumped. She even forgot to pull back her outstretched hand.

Song Chengyi looked down and saw the little girl gazing up at him in surprise. Why did he wake up so suddenly? Summer Luo wondered. Song Chengyi glanced at her extended hand. Only then did Summer Luo withdraw it, forcing a sheepish smile. “Good morning.”

“Good morning,” Song Chengyi replied coolly, then lifted the quilt and slipped out of bed. The warmth disappeared in an instant, and Summer Luo found herself a little unaccustomed to it.

But she rose immediately as well. After both of them had washed up in the bathroom, Summer Luo changed into a cool, sporty short-sleeved shirt. Today, after all, they were going hiking. When Song Chengyi saw her come out, he said, “It’s seven o’clock. Let’s go eat.”

When they went out for breakfast, they ran into the young couple from the night before. Only then did Summer Luo learn the girl’s name was He Die and the boy was Su Sheng. As Summer Luo nibbled on her rice ball, she still didn’t look very happy.

“The breakfast here isn’t as lavish as at home. It doesn’t taste good,” she grumbled. Song Chengyi said nothing—indeed, last night’s dinner hadn’t been good, and breakfast this morning was no better.

He Die chimed in, “Breakfast is too plain. It can’t compare to how varied it is back in China.”

After the four finished and returned to the inn, He Die suggested, “Are you two going hiking later? Why don’t we go together? We can look out for each other.”

Summer Luo didn’t respond, looking to Song Chengyi for his opinion. He indicated he had no objections. So the four of them made plans to climb Mount Fuji together.

Back in her room, Summer Luo stuffed her backpack with snacks she’d bought at the convenience store. By the time they reached the scenic area, it was already past eight. The sun was rising higher, and the air was growing warm.

Song Chengyi bought two hats, putting one on Summer Luo’s head. Seeing this, He Die looked on with envy, and Su Sheng, taking the hint, quickly bought two as well.

Not long after they entered the park, Summer Luo’s phone wouldn’t stop ringing. She glanced at the screen and handed it to Song Chengyi. “It’s your mother.”

Song Chengyi took a look. “You answer it.”

When Summer Luo picked up, it wasn’t Zhou Yun’s voice but Mrs. Yu Wenjing’s. Thinking she had misread the caller ID, Summer Luo checked again.

“Mom, why is it you?”

Yu Wenjing’s voice came through, displeased. “Who else could it be if not your mother?”

Summer Luo didn’t argue. She had her own phone—why use someone else’s to call?

“Mom, what’s the matter?”

“Did everything go smoothly last night?” Yu Wenjing asked with a laugh.

“What do you mean, last night?” Summer Luo was puzzled. Hadn’t she come to Mount Fuji with Song Chengyi yesterday? What could have happened?

“You really don’t know?” Yu Wenjing sounded excited.

“Know what? Mom, I’m on Mount Fuji with Song Chengyi, about to go hiking,” Summer Luo said, catching up to Song Chengyi, who was walking ahead.

“You weren’t at the hotel last night?” Yu Wenjing’s voice was so loud it made Summer Luo’s ears hurt.

“We arrived at Mount Fuji yesterday afternoon and stayed here for the night,” she explained.