Why is the system taking my request to photograph a cosplayer seriously?

Chapter 250 The Girls' Year-End Plans

In the days that followed, with Quzhen turning a blind eye, Baima resumed her comfortable life with tens of thousands of yuan in pocket money every month.

All you have to do is tell Lin Man, or ask Ding Heng directly, and you can easily get pocket money.

But it doesn't seem to be completely free.

For example, she needs to "play" a more obedient younger sister in front of Ding Heng.

Occasionally, she would "warm her feet" as a regular occurrence, and sometimes Ding Heng would scoop her up and hold her like a pillow.

Baima didn't mind; in fact, she quite enjoyed it.

Especially in winter, Ding Heng's body temperature is higher than that of ordinary people, making him particularly warm.

But she was still able to keenly perceive certain changes.

Ding Heng's hands were often not very honest, frequently pushing their luck, but he always knew when to stop.

Did Ding Heng really treat her like a younger sister?

Baima couldn't understand it, and was too lazy to think about it.

As December drew to a close, the weather grew colder day by day, and the damp chill of Changsha seeped into the very bones.

When Ding Heng finished his last class in the afternoon, the sky was already getting dark.

He drove to the entrance of Zhongnan University and saw Zhao Yanxi standing by the roadside in the distance.

The girl was dressed in a greyish-white schoolgirl uniform, wearing a black down jacket over a scarf wrapped around her chin, revealing a pair of bright and lively eyes.

Her long, vibrant rose-red hair peeked out from the edge of her scarf, swaying gently in the cold wind.

Zhao Yanxi opened the car door and sat in the passenger seat, quickly took off her down jacket, rubbed her hands together, and exhaled a puff of white breath.

"It's freezing! It's freezing!"

Ding Heng started the car, his gaze sweeping over those long legs that he had played with in countless ways, yet never tired of them.

Beneath the dark gray JK skirt, her legs were encased in thick black tights, the material substantial yet the lines still smooth.

"Don't always prioritize style over warmth."

Ding Heng muttered a sarcastic remark and casually turned the air conditioner up two degrees.

"hey-hey."

Zhao Yanxi smiled foolishly, took something out of her bag, and handed it to Ding Heng.

The red rope knot for peace is crookedly made, with uneven tassels.

Ding Heng took it, examined it from all angles, and raised an eyebrow.

"Where did you buy it? It's ugly."

Zhao Yanxi raised her hand and gently patted him, glaring at him with annoyance.

"What did I buy?! I knitted it myself during a craft activity!"

Ding Heng immediately changed his tune, his tone becoming sincere.

"You know what, look closely—it's actually quite nice."

He hung the safety knot below the rearview mirror, adjusted the angle, and made it hang straight down.

Zhao Yanxi smiled, then suppressed her smile and let out a soft hum.

"You're smart enough not to argue with me."

Ding Heng reached out and gently pinched her thigh. The feel of the thick black stockings was completely different from that of the thin stockings; they weren't as slippery, but rather had a warm, velvety texture.

"Did you get the leave request sorted out?"

"Well, the counselor wasn't happy at first, saying that the checks had been strict lately. I talked to her for a long time and said that I had something to do at home before she reluctantly nodded."

Zhao Yanxi leaned back in her chair: "What about you guys? Have you decided where to go?"

"not yet."

Ding Heng stepped on the gas, and the Mercedes merged into the traffic: "We originally planned to go to the Maldives or Bali, but it's the peak tourist season at the end of December, and privacy can't be guaranteed. Lin Man is also hesitant, worried about being photographed, which might cause trouble."

"Getting into trouble?"

Zhao Yanxi asked, puzzled, "What trouble are we getting into? We're not celebrities."

"When a bunch of beautiful women like you get together, it's hard not to attract attention, especially since Hua Qing is now considered a minor internet celebrity."

Ding Heng explained, "Besides, didn't your dad get another job transfer recently? It's always good to keep a low profile."

Zhao Yanxi pursed her lips, remained silent for a few seconds, and then suddenly spoke.

"If all else fails, we can just make do in Xingcheng. It's not like we have to go on a trip, and it'll be easier to explain to our families."

""

"Why are you suddenly being so understanding?"

Ding Heng glanced at her sideways and made a teasing remark.

"With Brother Ding Heng by my side, I can stay anywhere."

Zhao Yanxi spoke in an incredibly gentle tone.

For her, the novelty of traveling has worn off; now, Ding Heng's company is always her top priority.

The red light ahead turned on, and the Mercedes slowly came to a stop.

Ding Heng reached out and rubbed the kitten's head, using a lighter touch than usual.

"Let's go out for a walk. The weather in Xingcheng is damp and cold, and everyone will feel uncomfortable if we stay in there for too long."

"Then you and Sister Man had better decide soon so I can explain it to my parents."

Zhao Yanxi leaned back in her chair, then suddenly changed the subject: "By the way, how's Long He's doing? Her birthday is just one day away from yours, what are your plans for this year?"

Ding Heng tapped his fingers lightly twice on the steering wheel.

"She probably has something to do. Last year's incident was quite awkward, so I won't bother her this year."

Zhao Yanxi said "Oh" and didn't ask any more questions.

When the two arrived home, the living room was already bustling with activity.

Lin Man, Wen Jing, and Bai Ma sat cross-legged on the carpet, with several printed travel plans spread out in front of them.

In the center of the coffee table, Wenjing's phone stood upright on a stand, and on the screen, Huaqing was holding Heidou and video chatting with everyone.

Hearing the noise from the entrance, the group turned around at the same time.

"I'm back!"

Wenjing spoke first, and Ding Heng smiled.

Zhao Yanxi changed into her slippers and jogged over, then plopped down next to Lin Man.

"How did the discussion go?"

"Take a look."

Lin Man presented her with a plan.

The document lists three alternative options in black and white.

Option A: Bali's advantages: warm climate, beautiful scenery, and great for taking photos.

Disadvantages: peak tourist season, privacy is hard to guarantee, rain is possible during the rainy season.

Option B: Advantages of skiing in Switzerland: stunning scenery and relatively few people.

Disadvantages: It's cold! And most of us are terrible skiers.

Option C: South Island, New Zealand. Advantages: Late December is summer, diverse scenery, fewer crowds, and good privacy.

Disadvantages: Long flight time and inconvenient transfers.

Zhao Yanxi read through the messages one by one, then looked up at Hua Qing on the screen.

She asked, "Sister Hua Qing, which one do you prefer?"

Hua Qing thought for a moment and said, "New Zealand, I've heard it's quite beautiful there."

"Me too!"

Zhao Yanxi raised her hand: "I've never been to the Southern Hemisphere in my life!"

Lin Man made a note on the paper and turned to Wen Jing.

"Wenjing, what about you?"

"I don't understand, I'm fine with anything, I'll do whatever you say—"

Wenjing still prefers to be a nice person.

For her, going anywhere is a chance to broaden her horizons.

"But I feel it's too far—"

Lin Man seemed reluctant to take such a long flight and sought help again: "Bai Ma, do you have any objections?"

Baima chimed in, "Me too! Flying to New Zealand takes twelve hours! And it's only for less than a week, it's exhausting!"

Zhao Yanxi clapped her hands: "Then let's vote! The minority must obey the majority!"

"etc----"

On the other end of the screen, Hua Qing cleared her throat: "I have something to tell you."

Several people looked over at the same time.

"I have a performance in the capital on the 23rd. Could you come two days earlier? You can watch the performance and then leave, since there are no direct flights from Changsha."

Zhao Yanxi's eyes lit up.

"Sister Hua Qing, you're performing? What kind of performance?"

"The troupe's year-end performance is nothing special."

Hua Qing spoke calmly, but her eyes were filled with undisguised anticipation.

"Yes, yes, yes! Of course I'll go!"

Zhao Yanxi turned to look at Ding Heng. The man had changed his shoes and was about to go upstairs, seemingly not very interested in their conversation.

"What do you think, Brother Ding Heng?"

"You can decide."

Ding Heng waved his hand and quickly went upstairs to the study on the second floor.

He closed the door, sat down at his desk, took out his phone, and dialed Longhe's number.

beep----·----·----

After several rings, the other end answered.

"Feed————"

Long He's voice sounded slightly hoarse, as if he had just finished singing at an event and was a little tired.

"What are you doing?"

"Just finished recording a variety show, I'm exhausted!"

Long He sighed: "Is something the matter?"

"Nothing serious, just asking how you plan to celebrate your birthday."

There was a long silence on the other end of the phone.

Long He spoke again, his tone deliberately light.

"Me? What else can I do but work? I have a New Year's Eve gala to record on TVB on the 27th, a brand event on the 28th, and a trip to Shanghai to film GG on the 31st—my schedule is packed, how can I have time to celebrate my birthday?"

"Can't find the time this year?"

"The contract is about to expire, and the company wants to make more money, which I understand."

Long He chuckled lightly, "Anyway, birthdays come every year, so one more won't make a difference. Just have fun with your girlfriend, don't worry about me."

Ding Heng remained silent, while Long He tried his best to appear more relaxed.

"Besides, even if I were free, there's a huge group of people over there, and I couldn't get in. Rather than feel awkward, it's better for us to just mind our own business, don't you think?"

"You're quite optimistic."

"Of course! I've always been open-minded since I was a child!"

Long He chuckled twice, but Ding Heng could tell that his brother's laughter sounded a bit dry.

Ding Heng leaned back in his chair, tapping his knuckles lightly on the edge of the table, and gave one last word of advice.

Don't overwork yourself.

"Okay, okay, stop nagging."

Long He responded with a sound of agreement, and then added a sentence.

"Then—Happy New Year and Happy Birthday! I'm owing you in advance so you won't be too busy later."

"Hmm—let's have fun together, brothers."

The phone hangs up.

Ding Heng stared blankly at his phone screen, then finally slammed it down on the table.

When I went downstairs again, the voting in the living room had already ended.

Zhao Yanxi held up a sticky note and waved it at Ding Heng: "Voting structure—2:2:1! Two votes for New Zealand, two votes for Bali, and one vote for Switzerland."

, 7

Clearly, Wenjing was still trying to avoid offending either side.

Lin Man spread her hands: "Boss, why don't you make the final decision?"

Ding Heng decisively replied, "New Zealand."

"What's the reason?"

"Few people, and the sea. I want to see you in your swimsuits."

The living room fell silent for a moment.

Zhao Yanxi shrugged generously: "Okay! I bought several new sets."

Lin Man smiled and agreed, "Perfect timing, I'm preparing a few new outfits this time."

Wenjing lowered her head, her nipples turning a deep red.

On the other end of the screen, Hua Qing muttered expressionlessly, "Pervert."

Only Baima rested his chin on his hands, looking thoughtful.

you?

Does that include her?

Baima looked down at herself.

She was small in stature, with a flat chest, and looked as unripe as an undeveloped fruit.

Then think of Zhao Yanxi's long legs, Lin Man's alluring curves, Wen Jing's exaggerated proportions, and even Hua Qing, although she is rather thin, has the temperament to carry her off.

In comparison, my disadvantages are far too great.

A week later, everyone took leave and flew to the capital to watch Hua Qing's performance.

The performance was held in the experimental theater of the Capital Theatre, which is not large, with about 300 seats, and it was packed to capacity.

The 40-minute solo dance featured no fancy techniques or deliberate emotional manipulation; every movement was perfectly executed.

Clean, precise, and powerful.

The applause was thunderous during the curtain call. Hua Qing stood in the center of the stage, slightly out of breath, with a thin layer of sweat on her forehead.

Her eyes searched the audience seats, quickly locking onto Ding Heng's location. A smile unconsciously appeared on her face, which she quickly withdrew.

Ding Heng got up and went around to the backstage area via the side passage.

Hua Qing was surrounded by several classmates, who were praising her enthusiastically.

"Sister Qing, you look amazing today!"

"That last big jump gave me goosebumps!"

Hua Qing seemed a little uncomfortable in the face of everyone's praise, and kept being polite and modest.

Ding Heng stood quietly on the periphery of the crowd, without stepping forward.

After the crowd dispersed, he stepped forward and handed over a bunch of white bellflowers.

"Thank you for your hard work, Chief Hua!"

Don't incur unnecessary debts.

Hua Qing took the flowers and angrily punched Cong, saying, "What chief? You're just teasing me again!"

"It was bound to happen sooner or later!"

"you----"

"Don't be shy, in my heart, you'll always be number one!"

A man's sweet talk always works. Although Hua Qing didn't want to react, she couldn't control the smile on her face.

"Sister Qing, is this your boyfriend?"

A classmate who hadn't gone far turned around and looked at Ding Heng with a smile.

"Wow, so handsome! No wonder Sister Qing doesn't like the boys at our school—"

"Don't talk nonsense."

Hua Qing blushed with embarrassment and raised her hand to shoo them away, but the classmates had already run far away laughing and joking.

Ding Heng continued, "Chief Hua, let's change your clothes. I've prepared a celebration banquet for you!"

Hua Qing hummed in agreement, picked up the flower, and turned to walk into the changing room.

Twenty minutes later, Hua Qing changed into a light blue modified Hanfu dress, her long hair half-tied up, and returned to Ding Heng's side looking neat and refreshing.

The two walked out of the theater side by side, the night wind blowing in their faces.

Hua Qing got into the passenger seat and fastened her seatbelt.

"And what about them?"

"I'm going back to the hotel now. My flight is early the day after tomorrow, so I need to arrange my luggage first."

Ding Heng started the car: "I'll take you for a walk tonight."

"What are you going to shop for?"

"You can shop wherever you want."

"9

Hua Qing didn't say anything, and began to seriously consider how to arrange her time alone with Ding Heng tonight.

As the car turned a corner, Hua Qing suddenly asked.

"Who's been there the longest this time?"

"Who else could it be but the four of you, plus Baima who insisted on coming along?"

97

Ding Heng jokingly asked, "What, do you want to give Hua Yue a ride?"

"Hua Yue?"

Reminded by Ding Heng, Hua Qing realized that she hadn't contacted her cousin for a while.

Thanks to her family's generosity, Hua Yue is now thriving in the Hanfu Club at Hunan Normal University, bringing a lot of business to her family.

Hua Qing temporarily set aside her worry for her cousin and asked again, "Where's Long He?"

Ding Heng was taken aback: "Why are you asking about Long He too?"

"Anyone else asking?"

"Yan hope".

Hua Qing simply said "Oh" and didn't ask any further questions.

Ding Heng looked straight ahead, his tone even.

"I called her. Her contract is about to expire, and the company wants to make as much money as possible in the last few days, so her schedule is packed and she's busy."

"Aren't you going to do anything about her?"

"She's doing her job normally, why should I care?"

"Yeah----"

Hua Qing didn't say anything more.

She had a feeling long ago that Ding Heng would treat all the women equally.

His attitude towards Longhe was completely different.

If it were them who were too busy with work, Ding Heng would definitely use his invisible power to find ways to make them available.

However, when facing Long He, Ding Heng rarely interfered, mostly letting things take their course, only intervening secretly when necessary.

The phone suddenly rang, interrupting Hua Qing's thoughts.

Caller ID—Hua Yue.

Owe Cao Cao, and Cao Cao arrives?

Hua Qing answered the call.

"Feed?"

"sister!"

Hua Yue cut to the chase: "Are you going back to Xingcheng for New Year's Eve? I finally got a break, and I was thinking about how long it's been since we last saw each other—"

'

Hua Qing replied, "Um—I'm not going back. I've already made plans to go on a trip with my friends."

"friend?"

Hua Yue said irritably, "It wouldn't be that Prince Ding Heng—"

Before he could finish speaking, two dry coughs suddenly came from inside the carriage.

"Cough cough."

Ding Heng cleared his throat and snatched Hua Qing's phone.

"What do you owe?"

Hua Yue on the other end of the phone was clearly startled.

"Ding... Ding Heng?"

"Please show some respect! You should be calling him brother-in-law now."

"Uh... okay, okay, brother-in-law."

Hua Yue called him "brother-in-law" without any hesitation or emotion.

"Is there anything else?"

"It's nothing, I just wanted to ask if my sister is coming back."

"No, let's go out and have some fun."

"Where are Wenjing and Yanxi?"

"Together."

"oh----"

Hua Yue sounded disappointed.

Ding Heng handed the phone back to Hua Qing.

Hua Qing continued, "Xiao Yue, what are your plans for New Year's Eve?"

"I?"

Hua Yue chuckled: "What can I do? Since you're not coming back, I'll go back to the Hanfu club and organize an event! Bye for now ————"

"etc."

Hua Qing suddenly called out to Hua Yue.

"What's wrong, sis?"

"Do you have to participate in the Hanfu club activities?"

"It's not necessary, why?"

"and you----"

Hua Qing took a deep breath: "Pack your luggage, we'll transit through the capital in a couple of days."

There was complete silence on the other end of the phone.

After a while, Hua Yue's voice came back up, sounding somewhat unreal.

"Sis, are you serious?"

"When have I ever joked with you?"

"From where?"

New Zealand.

"New Zealand?!"

Hua Yue's voice began to tremble, her tone a mixture of agitation and nervousness.

"But—I need a visa—"

"Lin Man will help you arrange a work visa."

"Okay—okay! I'll get ready right away."

Hua Yue hung up the phone, and Hua Qing put away her phone and shrank her neck.

"Ding Heng, should I have acted on my own initiative?"

"It's okay, she seems pretty cute. I've already won over my best friend and cousin."

Ding Heng sighed and laughed, completely unconcerned.

It's just a light bulb.

It's alright!