Chapter 7
Blind Date
Feeling bored, so bored! When will a case come my way Lin Yan fidgeted restlessly in her chair, while applying nail polish to her fingers.
Duan Cheng turned around from the front desk and said, Sis, what about the injury assessment from yesterday
Injury assessments are nothing like real cases. Im a forensic expert, not a doctor.
Lin Yan blew on her freshly painted nails, glanced at the setting sun, and admired the slender and distinct bones of her fingers. Her fair skin perfectly complemented the bright red nail polish, and she was quite satisfied.
Zheng Chengrui turned around with a greasy face and asked, Then what would be considered a real case?
He was originally curious, and Fang Xin couldnt stop his question in time.
Sure enough.
Serial murders, dismemberment and cannibalism, massacre Only cases of this magnitude can be considered real, right?
After she finished speaking, the room fell silent. Several people looked at her without saying a word. Fang Xin clearly had a somewhat disapproving expression, but for some reason, he held back and didnt speak.
The atmosphere became noticeably tense.
However, Lin Yan never cared about what others thought of her; she actually wished that everyone in the world would consider her a lunatic, a monster, so they would keep their distance from her.
The wall clock had just struck six when she suddenly stood up, tossing her uniform onto the chair. Ah, finally liberated! See ya, everyone!
She left in a carefree manner, without looking back, unaware that someone was silently biting their tongue behind her.
This Lin Yan, always late and leaving early, not doing anything all day, and saying such things. Shes simply the worst among public servants.
Someone grumbled discontentedly.
Just yesterday, I saw her kissing someone at the entrance of the city police bureau. She really treats the bureau like her own doorstep.
A tree without bark will undoubtedly die, and a person without shame is invincible in the world. Who let her come from a good family background? I studied for three years before getting into the city police bureau, but her, heh
As the rumors escalated, Song Yuhang stood up quietly, hanging her coat on the hanger.
The voices abruptly stopped, and the topic shifted to her.
Captain Song, leaving so early today?
Yeah, got something to attend to.
Just then, Zhang Jinhai walked in with a tea cup. Blind date, right?
She replied nonchalantly, Yeah.
Thats right, Captain Song is already in her thirties. Its time to get married and have kids, setting an example for the younger generation. Otherwise, that next-door detective will keep calling our team a bunch of bachelors.
There werent many people in the criminal investigation department, mostly young guys. Besides Zhang Jinhai, who was married and had children, the rest were all single. As a result, Song Yuhang had fewer duty hours and rarely personally handled cases, let alone conduct investigations or interviews.
The crowd burst into laughter, but Song Yuhang remained expressionless. She nodded to signal them to make way, took her car keys, and left.
*****
As usual, after work, Lin Yan would go for a few drinks. She opened her phone and messaged Lin Ge.
At 8 oclock, Randys, shall we meet?
The response came quickly, Cant make it, I have plans.
Blind date?
Lin Ge replied with a bitter expression.
Lin Yan teased, Do you want me to go and give you some backup?
Forget it, please, just let it be. I still want to have a pleasant dinner.
Considering Lin Yans personality, who knows what kind of mischief she might get into.
Lin Yan typed a line and then deleted it: Alright then, I wish you success.
There was no response from the other side. Lin Yan tossed her phone aside and leaned back in her seat. The citys lights flowed through her vision, and on the car window, her lonely expression was reflected.
The butler turned around and asked, Miss, should we head back?
No, just drive around. If she went back home, she would lock herself up in the attic again, relying on alcohol and sleeping pills to get through the days.
She was genuinely tired of this kind of life, but she had to pull herself together, living like a madwoman.
A sarcastic smile appeared at the corner of Lin Yans lips.
The car silently drove on the road, and Lin Yan turned her head, observing the citys original appearance through the colorful lights.
Fourteen years of separation.
Skyscrapers had risen, and the roads had become much wider. The evening rush hour was crowded with traffic, and traffic lights flashed ceaselessly. White-collar workers in suits and leather shoes hurriedly walked with briefcases in hand.
Teenagers wearing blue and white school uniforms crossed the road, playfully teasing each other. A girl with a ponytail playfully pulled the braid of the girl in front of her.
The two of them playfully started a little commotion, their smiles even capturing the refreshing scent of early summer breeze.
Lin Yans gaze was involuntarily drawn to them. She saw them stop at the entrance of a western restaurant, leaning on the display window and looking inside.
Are you hungry?
Yeah, a little.
Then lets go eat.
Maybe not, this place is too expensive.
For a moment, she couldnt tell if she was looking at the past or the future.
When she snapped out of it, she had already gotten off the car and stood at the entrance of the western restaurant.
The two kids, seeing someone approaching, quickly disappeared.
Lin Yan looked up at the signboard of the restaurant, Nan Chan, a poetic name, and also a long-standing old brand in the city.
The store had been renovated, but the quaint signboard was still hanging there. After so many years, it had neither changed its name nor moved.
For some reason, a wave of shared loneliness and a hint of relief surged in her heart.
She realized that she was not the only one who remembered this city and cherished its old memories.
Ill have a medium-rare sirloin, Caesar salad, and the most expensive red wine. Thank you, Lin Yan closed the menu and handed it to the waiter.
Miss, what sauce would you like for the steak?
Black truffle butter sauce.
She almost blurted out unconsciously, but then furrowed her brows suddenly.
The waiter noticed her hesitation and thought she might want to change her order, so he quickly recommended something else. Lin Yan opened her mouth but waved him off and let him go.
Mr. Lin, this way, please. We have reserved a seat for you. Shall we serve the dishes now? It was peak dining hours, and the restaurant was fully occupied. A waiter led Lin Ge to a table.
No need, the person Im meeting hasnt arrived yet. Ill wait for her to see the menu and decide what she wants to eat.
The voice sounded somewhat familiar, and Lin Yan put down her cutlery and turned her head to take a look. Lin Ge?
Lin Yan! The man in a tailored suit lit up as soon as he saw her, quickly walking over and taking a seat opposite her.
What a coincidence.
It is indeed.
After Lin Yan went abroad for studies, the two of them hadnt seen each other again. It had been many years since they last met, and they had both shed their youthful innocence.
She still remembered Lin Ges nickname from back then, Four-Eyed Frog. He used to have a bowl-cut hairstyle, wear thick glasses, and would sniffle a bit when he spoke. Even when she bullied him, he would only laugh good-naturedly. Unlike her, the rebellious girl, Lin Ge was a well-behaved elementary school prodigy.
After many years, he did indeed carry the aura of a successful elite in society. He no longer wore glasses, had a short and neat crew cut, and was dressed in a smart little suit with a properly tied tie.
Lin Yan smacked her lips twice. Did you go abroad to study or get plastic surgery?
Get lost, he had just been immersed in the illusion that she had also become more beautiful after all these years, but her remark brought him back to reality.
Lin Yan was still the same unpleasant, sharp-tongued Lin Yan.
Your cousin, I, am a man of talent, grace, and incomparable elegance
He spoke with a clear and pleasant voice, and even though his tone was seemingly off, it didnt make people dislike him.
As he is Lin Ge, he should be like this, carefree and composed.
Lin Yan pretended to retch, then changed the topic again, Stop calling me your cousin. I have no relation to the Lin family.
Then what relation do you have?
Money. You know that very well. Im only close to money.
He was at a loss for words, realizing what it truly meant to be someone who only cared about money, regardless of anything else.
Lin Yan was indeed very clear about her stance. She was unwilling to go back and inherit the family business, but she was also unwilling to give up the huge wealth of the Lin family.
She simultaneously had a firm foothold in both worlds.
The phone in her hand buzzed, and Lin Ge looked at his watch, standing up. Alright, I wont waste any more words with you. Have you finished eating?
She had only taken a few bites of her steak, but Lin Yan had already lost her appetite. Im about ready to leave.
Ill get you another bottle of Lafite. Sit and drink. Since youre here, dont rush to leave. Arent you used to scrutinizing peoples dishes? Help me with that too. My mom said if it doesnt work out this time, shell break my legs.
Is scrutinizing peoples dishes a compliment?
Lin Yan pretended to hit him, but Lin Ge dodged in fear. He called the waiter over to order more, wincing as he watched her order the most expensive wine.
Youre so ruthless. Just wait until you get married, Ill see if I dont give you a big bamboo pole!
Lin Yan, holding a bottle of wine worth 48,000 yuan, leaned back on the sofa. Maybe in the next life.
Lin Ge: I regret it. Can you leave now?
Lin Yan took a sip of the wine and raised her glass to him. Its easy to invite a god, but its hard to send one away, Master Lin.
*****
At 7:55, Song Yuhang parked the car nearby and walked into the restaurant precisely at 8:01.
Lin Ge stood up and waved. Miss Song, over here.
Lin Yan frowned slightly next sit when she heard the surname Song. She couldnt help but think of a certain grumpy police officer. She shivered, quickly took a sip of wine to calm herself.
The sound of chairs and tables lightly moving as the woman handed back the menu.
Thats all, thank you, her voice was pleasant and soothing.
But why did it sound more and more familiar?
I apologize, my mother tends to be overbearing and caused you trouble
Lin Ge smiled, understanding that meeting for coffee in the evening might not be the best choice, so he proactively poured a glass of water for her and placed it by her side.
To be honest, my mother is also
The mans face seemed somewhat troubled, and they exchanged a knowing smile, understanding each others situation.
It seemed that both of them were forced into this situation today.
Song Yuhang breathed a slight sigh of relief.
Following the established routine, they had already exchanged information about age and occupation during their previous meeting. Now, should she ask about hobbies and interests?
Song Yuhang searched her mind for words, Mr. Lin, what are your hobbies usually?
Not many, I play a bit of bowling, swim, work out, or stay at home reading. How about you, Miss Song?
Mixed martial arts, and I read some books as well.
Mixed martial arts, that sounds intense.
If there were any domestic violence issues in the future, could Lin Ge handle it?
Lin Yan silently pondered.
Separated by a half-height sofa wall, Lin Yan could feel the palpable awkwardness in the air.
Lin Ge laughed a couple of times and said, What kind of books do you usually read, Miss Song? Maybe we have some common interests.
Song Yuhang hesitated for a moment before answering, Interpretation of Dreams, Crime and Personality, Psychological Profile of Criminals, and some other miscellaneous books.
These were already her non-professional, casual reads, but most people probably hadnt even heard of their names.
She intentionally changed the topic, but unexpectedly, Lin Ge still smiled and continued the conversation.
No wonder, Miss Song, youre really impressive. Ive only read one book of Freuds original works, Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis. I got so tired halfway through that I couldnt continue reading.
Song Yuhang was slightly taken aback. She had been on blind dates before, and every time she mentioned these books, the other person would either look bewildered or disdainful, eager to correct her that women should read books on emotions or parenting.
Lin Ge was the first man outside her profession to compliment her on being knowledgeable.
Is that so? Being able to read halfway through Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis is already very impressive.
What a random and messy list of books like Psychological Profile of Criminals. Could this person be a pervert?
Lin Yan pricked up her ears, getting curious.
The atmosphere gradually became more relaxed. Lin Ge opened up and was not a reserved person by nature. Knowing that the other person wasnt here for marriage, he felt much more at ease. Their conversation gradually became natural.
Speaking of which, when Auntie Wang came to my place for dental work, I had no idea she was your mothers friend. Later, you found my moms wallet. Its truly fate.
Song Yuhang curved her lips slightly, echoing his laughter, Yes, but as a police officer, I should return anything I find to its rightful owner, regardless of who it belongs to.
Lin Yans eyebrows twitched a couple of times. This was just too unromantic!
Where did Lin Ge find such a strange person? If it were her, she would definitely go along with the other persons words, and eventually, fate would lead them to the bed.
Wait!
A police officer-
And surnamed Song!
Could there be such a coincidence in the world?
Lin Yans whole body was covered in goosebumps, and she choked on her drink, coughing loudly.
The noise next sit was a bit loud, but Lin Ge remained calm and cut the steak for her, saying, Weve been talking for a while, and you must be hungry. Please, go ahead and eat.
Inner thoughts: Lin Yan, what the hell are you doing?
Cursed, Lin Yan sneezed again, wiped her nose with a tissue, and with a determined expression, she shakily stood up and climbed onto the sofa seat.
While eating, Song Yuhang felt a sense of someone watching her, making her uncomfortable. She glanced up and saw Lin Ge focused on his steak, ruling him out as the observer.
Impossible, it cant be him.
Frowning slightly, Song Yuhang slowly lifted her head.
As Lin Yan crawled inch by inch onto the sofa chair and lowered her head, their eyes met.
Song Yuhang remained expressionless and said, Forensic Doctor Lin.
Lin Yan let out a thunderous scream, Brother, I disagree with you two being together!!!
Lin Ge choked on his wine and nearly spewed it all over his expensive suit.
He coughed intensely as if he had contracted tuberculosis.
In the meantime, Lin Ge looked at Lin Yan sitting beside him, then turned his gaze to the composed Song Yuhang. You?
He mentally typed a question mark, trying to process the situation.
Are you after our familys money? Ill give you ten million to leave my brother, and well never meet again, Lin Yan never expected to spout such clichd soap opera lines from her own mouth.
Lin Ge opened his mouth to speak: That
Lin Yan shot him a fierce glance, prompting him to raise his wine glass and take a sip, effectively sealing his lips with an invisible adhesive tape.
Song Yuhang smiled faintly as she observed Lin Yan. While they didnt resemble each other, both exuded a natural sense of nobility that came from being born into a prestigious family.
Normally, Song Yuhang would have simply turned and left, but for some reason, she wanted to deflate Lin Yans arrogance and make her understand that money couldnt solve everything.
Im not interested in your money. I can work and earn a living on my own. I think your brother is a good personthoughtful, gentle, and considerate. Hed make a good husband.
Lin Yan couldnt bear it and exclaimed, You havent seen his other side! In the middle of summer, he doesnt wash his socks or feet and runs around the house recklessly. He even lifted the skirt of our neighbors little girl! Our house is filled with yellow <s>porno </s>comics
Before she could finish, Lin Ge immediately covered her mouth tightly, apologizing to Song Yuhang with a wry smile.
He then warned Lin Yan with a feigned smile, Youre finished now. Watch how I tell Uncle Lin about this.
Struggling to break free, Lin Yan warned him back, Our family has a lot of rules. Youll regret it if you marry into our family!
Song Yuhang shifted to a more comfortable position and said, It doesnt matter. Im marrying him, not your family, and certainly not you.
Implied in her words was that she didnt care about their familys opinions.
As she thought about the possibility of marrying into the Lin family and having to meet them during holidays and family gatherings, she would have to address Lin Yan as sister-in-law repeatedly.
Since Song Yuhang disliked her so much, she might not even acknowledge her as a family member and instead treat her with disdain and arrogance.
Hearing this, Lin Yan was so flustered that she almost choked on her own blood. In desperation, she blurted out, You cant marry him! Hes gay, and a marriage of convenience wont bring happiness!
The people in the restaurant all turned their heads in unison, and the waiter who was about to serve the dishes almost tripped and almost dropped the tray.
Lin Ge exploded in anger, Lin Yan, have you had enough of causing trouble?!
I Lin Yan knew she was in the wrong and pouted, I Its not I
For some reason, seeing her look somewhat wronged, Song Yuhangs eyes suddenly lit up with an amused smile.
However, she concealed it very well, maintaining her calm and composed demeanor.
Whether someone is straight or gay, Im not a kid anymore, Forensic Doctor Lin. I think your brother would be a responsible and good man.
Lin Yan took a deep breath, barely restraining herself from launching into a tirade. She forced her face to turn stiffly towards Lin Ge.
Didnt you like clever, lively, and cute girls?!
Song Yuhang was nothing like that!
I think someone like Miss Song is just fine. Marriage is not the same as dating.
Song Yuhang lowered her head slightly and let out a chuckle. When she felt Lin Yans resentful gaze on her, she immediately resumed her serious demeanor.
As a successful man who valued his reputation, Lin Ge would not ignore her compliments.
So, no matter what Lin Yan said, as long as it was in her presence, Lin Ge would definitely refute her.
She seems a bit traditional, doesnt she? Boss Ge, youll definitely be under strict control in the future!
Its okay, a woman like Miss Song must be good at managing a household.
But she practices mixed martial arts. Arent you afraid of domestic violence in the future?!
Lin Ge looked at her tenderly and said, I trust that she wont.
Song Yuhang avoided the awkwardness of their gazes by pretending to drink water.
Whenever she heard about mixed martial arts, her head would ache, and Lin Yan was itching to settle the score with her over what happened that morning.
Lin Yan wanted to say something else, but Song Yuhang put down her water glass and calmly looked at her.
Her pupils were shallow, and under the warm-colored lights of the restaurant, her eyes seemed to have a touch of glass-like warmth and clarity.
Due to the date, she wasnt wearing her uniform today. Instead, she had on a simple white shirt, with a narrow waist that accentuated her figure quite stylishly.
When she wasnt teasing people, she actually looked pretty good.
As this thought flashed through Lin Yans mind, Song Yuhang spoke, Forensic Doctor Lin, do you really dislike me that much?
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