9. Taboo Heart [PT.1]

When he arrived home, he saw that his mother wasn't there, "It seems she's gone out today." Suddenly, a loud growling sound came from Lu Yang's stomach. "I guess I'll make my own lunch."

"I only have one week left before heading to Celestial Peak for a month. Who knows if my mother might have a change of heart? I can't let that happen; I need to act soon."

Wait, isn't her birthday the day after tomorrow? This is my chance. The best thing would be to give her a meaningful gift. But what should I choose? Lu Yang pondered what gift to select.

"A hairpin would be a great choice. It's an affordable yet thoughtful gift that I'm sure my mother would accept with appreciation."

After calming the thunder in his stomach, Lu Yang went into town to buy a hairpin. There was a newly opened hairpin shop, and as he entered, he saw an old man who he assumed was the owner. Since the shop was newly opened, hairpins and other accessories were being sold at half the original price. There was a wide variety of hairpins, each with its own unique charm and beauty.

His gaze fell upon a hairpin that particularly caught his interest. It was designed with a delicate butterfly motif and looked incredibly attractive. Lu Yang inquired, "Sir, how much is that one?"

The old man replied, "You have a good eye, kid. This hairpin is a popular gift among lovers nowadays. It not only enhances your lover's charm but also keeps misfortune at bay. And this happens to be the last piece."

Lu Yang questioned, "Doesn't that mean many people will have the same hairpin?"

The old man smiled, "Although the design may be the same, I've added some extra touches to this one. It's the only hairpin with a different color, and the glass I used won't shatter even if it falls. Plus, it's made with real silver, so it won't rust ever. All of this for just 1000 spirit stones. What do you say?"

Lu Yang hesitated for a moment before deciding, "Well, 1000 spirit stones aren't cheap, but they're nothing compared to the value of my feelings for my mother."

Lu Yang handed over 1000 spirit stones and received the hairpin.

As he left the shop, someone called out, "Lu Yang?" He turned around, and to his surprise, it was his mother. She noticed the box he was holding.

"What are you doing here?" Lu Meiying asked with a confused look on her face.

"No-Nothing much, I was just buying a gift for my friend. Let's head back home; it will soon be evening," he said, trying to change the subject.

As they began their journey back, their hands brushed against each other. What started as an innocent touch sent a rush of warmth flooding into Lu Meiying's cheeks. She instinctively began to pull her hand away, but before she could, Lu Yang gently captured it, interlocking their fingers. This unexpected gesture took Lu Meiying by surprise.

"Mother, it's quite crowded," Lu Yang said softly, "Let me hold your hand; otherwise, I might lose my way. You used to hold my hand when we went to the market when I was a child, isn't it nostalgic?"

Lu Meiying's hand grew cold, her cheeks turning a shade of crimson, her face warming up. Despite Lu Yang's explanation that he was merely trying to prevent getting separated, the way he held her hand felt far from that of a parent and child. Yet, as they continued to walk, the reassuring warmth of Lu Yang's hand made her feel strangely at ease, and she didn't resist.

Lu Yang, too, couldn't deny his embarrassment, his face resembling a ripe tomato. Both their hearts raced as they moved forward, and to any stranger who happened to observe, they appeared as nothing less than lovers.

They arrived home, and Lu Yang gently released their entwined hands. Lu Meiying hurried inside, her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment. Lu Yang followed, equally embarrassed. The evening had arrived, and it was time for dinner.

As they sat down to eat, Lu Meiying couldn't help but ask, "Who is this friend you never introduced me to?"

Lu Yang's eyes widened as he realized his oversight. "Oh, I completely forgot to introduce you. I'll do it soon. She's a remarkable person and holds a special place in my heart. She's my first love, and I hope she'll accept my feelings," he said with a mischievous grin.

"Really?" Lu Meiying's voice sounded less enthusiastic than before. "How does she look?"

Lu Yang replied with a playful twinkle in his eyes, "Just like you."

At first, Lu Meiying's energy seemed to return, but it quickly waned again. "Oh," she said with a hint of sadness in her tone, "finally, my son has a crush. Do your best, and tell me how it goes." She then excused herself and retreated to her room.

As Lu Yang finished his meal, he couldn't help but think about his mother's upcoming birthday. He was also feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness,and couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation and apprehension as he thought about the risks he was about to take. He knew that this path was filled with its own challenges, but he was determined to make it worth every effort. Deep down, he believed that the reward of love and happiness would outweigh any risks he might face. With a resolute heart, he prepared to navigate the intricate path of emotions and hoped for everything to go well that day.