This is a rainy evening, with cold winds swirling and leaves scattering across the city. I stood at the entrance of the Women and Children's Hospital with Leyao, sheltered under an umbrella amidst a bustling crowd. Her face appeared slightly pale as she looked at me.

"Zhaoyang, I'm pregnant."

I was taken aback, then replied in disbelief, "Find the person responsible for your pregnancy. Why are you calling me?"

"I've only been with one man this past year, and that's you," she retorted.

"And you believe I've only been with one woman this year?" I shot back.

"Zhaoyang, are you even a man?"

"We both had our fun. If you want me to take responsibility, provide some evidence. Who would want to take on such a responsibility without proof?"

Leyao fell silent for a moment before saying, "I've already terminated the pregnancy. What evidence do you need now?"

Infuriated, I responded, "So you think I'm a pushover? The pregnancy is terminated, and then..."

She looked away, biting her lip. "You're not willing to take responsibility, huh? I'll see you at your company tomorrow."

Frustrated, I exclaimed, "Are you serious?"

Ignoring my outburst, she started to walk towards the hospital, perhaps with outstanding bills to settle.

Watching her lonely figure in the rain, I felt a mix of emotions. Despite doubting the child was mine, and despite my annoyance, I sensed her life must be challenging to resort to such tactics.

After a moment of contemplation, I called out, "Wait..."

She turned back to face me.

Handing her a bank card from my wallet, I said, "Use this for your recovery expenses."

She hesitated but replied, "No need. My intention was to see if you'd take responsibility. I didn't want to be left in ambiguity."

...

Later, at a bar, I awaited my close friend and colleague, Fang Yuan.

Since the bar's inception, I'd witnessed numerous lonely women and desolate men seeking solace in alcohol and the allure of the night.

This place became my refuge. The dancing women, flickering lights, varied drinks, and intoxicating scents created an illusionary world. Amidst this intoxication, I sought to bury my tumultuous past.

As I lit a cigarette, the translucent wrapping reflected the shimmering lights. I lost myself momentarily in the haze, caught in a fleeting decadence.

...

Fang Yuan interrupted my daze, removing the film from my eyes.

"What's the rush?" he asked, lighting his own cigarette.

"I need money. I've been deceived again," I exclaimed.

"Got another girl pregnant?" he quipped.

"Damn it, this time it's real..."

Love is a multifaceted journey that encompasses understanding, compassion, and sacrifice. It's an inexplicable force that draws two individuals closer, making them feel seen, valued, and deeply connected. It thrives on mutual respect, shared experiences, and the willingness to weather life's challenges together. Beyond mere attraction, love evolves into a profound partnership, where both individuals grow, evolve, and find solace in each other's presence, creating a tapestry of memories, moments, and shared dreams.

The chapter continues...