The Best Thing

Dark Plum

The weather in early March took an unusual turn, becoming excessively humid. A persistent mist hung in the air, clinging to everything around, making even breathing feel labored.

Shen Xifan had recently developed strange little bumps on her arms that itched terribly. She had tried numerous ointments, but nothing seemed to help.

It had been a while since she last saw He Suye. According to Qiu Tian, he was busy working on a new medication and was exhausted every day—even a mule had it better than him. Clutching her medical record, she sighed. Better not bother him and just go straight to the dermatology department.

But the moment she stepped into the dermatology clinic, she regretted it. The doctor barely glanced at her before scribbling a prescription in a few strokes. A chill ran down her spine—was this medication even going to work? She had zero confidence in it.

Standing bewildered at the payment counter, someone suddenly called her name. Shen Xifan turned to see Qiu Tian walking over in a white lab coat, carrying medical records. The image almost gave off the aura of a benevolent healer—though, of course, he was still far from He Suye.

Qiu Tian leaned in and asked, "What's up? Headache, fever, cold?"

Shen Xifan shook her head and rolled up her sleeve. "Take a look at this for me. What is this thing? It's so itchy!"

Qiu Tian frowned. "Why not go see Jianjianjiao? This is eczema. Three doses of Chinese herbal medicine will clear it right up. These steroid-based meds aren’t good—can’t use them long-term anyway."

"Can’t you prescribe it for me?" She handed him her medical record directly. "He Suye’s been so busy lately—I didn’t dare disturb him!"

Qiu Tian’s face twitched. "Miss, I’m in cardiology. Honestly, my TCM knowledge is rusty. Asking me to prescribe for you is just setting me up for embarrassment. Jianjianjiao’s in the school lab—just cross the street and you’ll find him. Send him a message, and he’ll come running out to see you."

Shen Xifan laughed. "If he scolds me for disrupting his work, I’m blaming you!"

He blinked and muttered, "Go on, go on. He’ll be over the moon…"

It was her first time visiting He Suye’s school. The old campus was dilapidated, with weeds lining the paths and a few school buses parked by the roadside, where elderly professors sat chatting and laughing. As she walked, she looked around curiously, wandering from the Herb Garden all the way to the dormitory area.

But after her stroll, Shen Xifan froze. The buildings in the old campus had no signs. Two of them looked like they could be the lab building—but which one was it? She pulled out her phone and texted He Suye, but after waiting a while, there was no reply.

Suddenly, a familiar figure passed by the corridor, stopping in surprise when he saw her. "Need something?"

Embarrassed, Shen Xifan pointed at the left building, then the right. "Fang Kexin, which one’s the lab building?"

Fang Kexin’s expression cleared. "Here to see the senior brother? The lab building’s the one on the right, but usually, outsiders aren’t allowed in. Did you call him?"

Shen Xifan explained, "I texted him, but He Suye hasn’t replied."

"Oh, in that case, I’ll go in and get him for you. Wait here a moment."

Before long, He Suye emerged with Fang Kexin. He looked exhausted, his usually bright eyes now deep-set from fatigue, with faint—dark circles.

At first, Shen Xifan wanted to laugh, but when he stood before her with a gentle smile, an inexplicable pang of sadness hit her.

He Suye asked softly, "What brings you here?""Oh—it's like this." Shen Xifan quickly pointed to her arm, "I went to the dermatology department, but then I ran into Qiu Tian. He said Chinese herbal medicine would be better for treatment and told me to come find you. Also, I haven't had any appetite lately and don’t feel like eating."

That Qiu Tian is such a sly fox, He Suye thought to himself, secretly pleased. He calmly examined her arm, "Oh, it's eczema. The weather has been quite humid recently. Do you want topical or oral medicine?"

Fang Kexin interrupted from the side, "I have something to attend to, so I’ll take my leave first."

"I’ve never seen someone who likes taking Chinese herbal medicine as much as you," He Suye chuckled while writing the prescription. "Licorice root, 30 grams; Scutellaria baicalensis, 10 grams; Rubia cordifolia, 10 grams; Magnolia flower, 10 grams; Cynanchum paniculatum, 10 grams; Poria cocos, 10 grams; and two smoked plums. You can buy the pre-decocted ones at the pharmacy."

Shen Xifan made a bitter face, "Ever since I met you, I’ve been bound to Chinese herbal medicine. Honestly, I feel like I’m drowning in it."

He Suye squinted at her sneakily, "Who told you to get sick so often? With such poor health, no one would dare take you in the future."

She turned her face away, "Ugh, don’t bring up topics more depressing than being sick. I’m already feeling awful!"

He Suye sighed helplessly, "Alright, little girl, let me take you out to clear your mind."

It turned out that behind his school, there was a large herbal garden called the "Hundred Herbs Garden."

Walking along the bluestone path and stepping over the high threshold, Shen Xifan realized all these lush green plants were Chinese medicinal herbs. She didn’t recognize a single one and could only stare wide-eyed in curiosity.

The plants were incredibly diverse—so much so that even He Suye couldn’t name them all. He laughed and explained, "I’m better at identifying dried herbs. The living ones are harder. The pharmacology students are amazing. Last time I came here with them, they rattled off names until my head spun."

Tiny leaves glistening with water droplets caught her eye. Shen Xifan carefully reached out to touch them, "He Suye, if I damage them, will I have to pay?"

"Hmm—" He Suye leaned in closer, "I’m not sure. There are a few priceless herbs here..."

Shen Xifan immediately retracted her hand and glared at him warily. Unexpectedly, He Suye plucked a few leaves and grinned, "Just teasing you. This is indigo woad—basically, it’s what makes Banlangen (Isatis root)."

"Banlangen is made from these leaves?"

He Suye walked ahead as he spoke, "Banlangen, Banlangen—of course, it’s the stems and roots. Little girl, isn’t the air here nice? A vast expanse of green, and after the rain, the earthy fragrance is refreshing. I used to love coming here."

He wandered off to tend to some unknown flowers in the corner. Shen Xifan crouched in front of a potted plant, squinting as she whispered to herself, "You’re perilla, also called Suye. I like you a little. How do you feel about me?"

The green leaves, tinged with deep purple, shimmered under the moisture. She gently swayed the branches, a blissful smile spreading across her face.

When Shen Xifan returned home, her father was engrossed in a magazine, while her mother called from the kitchen, "Fanfan, come help! Your mom can’t manage with just two hands."

After washing her hands, she started chopping vegetables. Her mother tossed rice into the pot and let out a long sigh, "Fanfan, tell your mom how things are going with that doctor."

Her heart sank. With Li Jie about to get married, she’d no longer have a partner in her little act. Forcing a smile, she replied, "What’s there to say? It’s just the usual—nothing special!"Shen's mother nodded, "Average is just fine. You're going abroad soon, and it wouldn't be good to be held back by this. Last time, Aunt Yang wanted to introduce someone to you, but I flatly refused. How wonderful it would be if you brought back a foreign son-in-law someday!"

Shen Xifan cheered inwardly, thanking God and planning to burn incense for Him tomorrow.

After dinner, she retreated to her room to surf the internet when her father knocked and entered, holding a magazine with a serious expression. Puzzled, Shen Xifan watched as he spread the magazine open before her and asked quietly, "Is this Dai Heng?"

It was a financial magazine's feature titled "The Battle of the Electronics Industry: Zhongyu Emerges as the Biggest Winner," accompanied by a photo of Yan Heng. The entire page was filled with details about him and his company. After staring at it for half a minute, Shen Xifan murmured, "It's Dai Heng, but he goes by Yan Heng now."

Her father frowned. "Fanfan, are you... I mean, do you two still keep in touch?"

Shen Xifan smiled. "Dad, he's actually staying at our hotel right now."

Pulling up a chair, her father sat down. "As a father, I rarely interfere in my daughter's romantic life. I've always believed whoever you like must be a good person, so I never meddled. But what happened three years ago really worried me."

She lowered her head and whispered, "Dad, I've been meaning to talk to you about this. I have met Dai Heng—no, Yan Heng—several times since then. He even asked me if there's still a chance for us."

Her father was stunned, then burst into laughter. "I knew my daughter wouldn't be unwanted! Your mom fusses over it all the time. So, have you made up your mind?"

"I don't know, Dad. I can't quite describe how I feel about him." Resting her chin in her hands, she chose her words carefully. "Ever since I found out he was staying at our hotel, I've been avoiding him. If he doesn't seek me out, I won't go to him either. Honestly, I just want things to stay this way—no thinking, no dwelling."

Her father chuckled knowingly. "You really take after your old man. Let me tell you a secret—back then, it was your mom who pursued me. She chased, I dodged. I didn't want to think about it either, just let things be. But eventually, you have to face it. I actually had high hopes for Dai Heng back then. After he broke up with you, I couldn't stand that guy—no sense of responsibility, completely unworthy of my precious girl. Now that he wants to reconcile, I won't interfere with your decision. I just want to remind you of two things: First, understand your true feelings for him. Second, his current status is complicated, so weigh everything carefully."

After a long pause, Shen Xifan looked up. "Dad, you may not have much say at home, but when you speak, it's always golden advice—straight to the point. No wonder you're in charge of political education at school."

Her father preened. "Of course, of course. My meeting speeches are concise and exemplary."

"Dad—" Shen Xifan flushed. "I really don't want to get married. Wouldn't it be nice to live with you guys forever?"

"Sweetheart, if you do marry, I'll miss you terribly."

"Then I just won't marry!""What! You dare refuse to marry?" Shen's mother's loud voice carried from the living room. "What are you two, old and young, hiding in the room for? Planning a rebellion? Old Shen, let me tell you, don't fill our daughter's head with nonsense."

Shen's father's face immediately fell, while Shen Xifan muffled her laughter under the blanket. She felt her home was warm and happy—her father always gave her timely advice, and her mother, though nagging, cared for her more than anyone.

As for her relationship with Yan Heng, she had finally resolved to face it.

The next day at the hotel, she watched the endless stream of luxury cars with puzzlement. Grabbing Lin Yishen who stood nearby, she asked, "Senior, what's going on? Are they filming an idol drama here?"

Lin Yishen tapped her head with his notebook. "Been away from work for days and find Earth changed, huh? It's dangerous here—better return to Mars!"

Xu Xiangya laughed, "Zhongyu's holding a new product launch. See, now that they're famous, people just keep coming!"

A secretary approached, "Director Cheng requests Manager Shen and Manager Lin at the venue."

He took the stage to introduce Zhongyu's corporate culture while unveiling ten new laptop models. The lights dimmed gradually with his speech, the spotlight focusing solely on him. This man who dominated half the electronics industry carried himself with exceptional composure—his calm demeanor and rich, deep voice naturally inspired trust.

Shen Xifan narrowed her eyes slightly. The scene felt so familiar. Back when he was the student union vice president, Yan Heng had also stood before the provincial student association campaigning for chairperson. She'd watched from a corner of the auditorium, through the dense crowd, as countless people rose in applause, their young faces brimming with vitality.

He had always been dazzling. Even then, she'd felt distant from him. Now, that distance was greater.

Suddenly she recalled her father's words: "His current status is special—you must weigh things carefully." So this man was truly beyond her reach now.

When they'd been together, she'd constantly felt inferior, meticulously trying to please him, terrified he might leave. Now, not even on the same level, she asked herself—would she be content living forever in his shadow?

All along, she'd struggled to prove her own worth. Unintentionally, through hurt and setbacks, she'd gained pride and self-respect.

As the stage lights shifted before her, her mind became crystal clear.

When feelings for someone fade, you can't bear the slightest grievance. But if love remains, you'll endure any hardship.

Love isn't about being matched—it's about willingness.

So this was how it felt to watch him with such tranquility. Those bewildering emotions had quietly dissipated. Emotions, once understood, were actually quite simple.

She'd been tormenting herself all along.

A faint smile escaped her lips. Lin Yishen noticed, "Junior, what's so funny?"

"Nothing!" Shen Xifan turned toward the corner. "The cleaning's well done—I'll commend them later."

Walking toward the bus stop with her bag, Shen Xifan felt unprecedentedly light, despite the lingering humidity and gloom. She nibbled on preserved plums, spitting pits as she went.Suddenly, she caught sight of a familiar figure sitting on a bench in the small park near the hotel. Even dressed in a simple white shirt, his dashing charm was unmistakable—it was none other than Ling Yufan.

What’s the big shot doing out for a stroll? It’s been days since I last set foot on Earth, and everywhere seems full of miracles!

Shen Xifan walked over to greet him. Ling Yufan looked up slightly at her approach, a mocking smile playing at his lips. "Shen Xifan, why aren’t you at Zhongyu’s victory banquet? After all, you do have some connection with Yan Heng."

So the big shot was in a foul mood—must’ve taken a hit from his rival. Shen Xifan rolled her eyes. "Right now, I’m not Manager Shen, and you’re not my client. Push me too far, and I won’t hold back my words."

Ling Yufan laughed, his peach-blossom eyes crinkling at the corners. "I’d actually prefer it if you didn’t hold back. That indifferent attitude of yours always gets on my nerves!"

Shen Xifan sighed. "I’d love to snap at you too, but you’re our ‘God’—can’t afford to offend you. Lucky for me I ran into you outside today, or I’d never get the chance."

He lowered his head. "Go ahead, Shen Xifan. Vent all you want. I’m depressed enough as it is—your jabs won’t make a difference."

Shen Xifan was secretly surprised. When did the ever-confident big shot become like this? Zhongyu must’ve really dealt him a heavy blow. With that thought, she obediently shut her mouth and held out a half-eaten bag of preserved plums. "Want some?"

Ling Yufan glanced at it. "A grown woman still eating preserved plums? How childish!" Yet he reached in, popped two into his mouth, and remarked, "Not bad. Once in a while is fine."

What a tsundere big shot. Shen Xifan patted his shoulder. "Fine, I won’t hold past grudges against you. Come on, I’ll treat you to something."

Shangfutang was a century-old restaurant specializing in medicinal cuisine. "My favorite here is the chilled osmanthus smoked plum syrup," Shen Xifan explained. "Refreshing, sweet with a hint of tartness."

Two small bowls were served, their fragrance immediately filling the air. As she sipped, she continued, "Smoked plums soothe coughs, relieve diarrhea, and quench thirst. Perfect for this damp weather. Don’t be shy—it’s on me!"

Ling Yufan remained silent. Unable to bear the quiet, Shen Xifan added, "Don’t take it too hard. Business is like war—wins and losses come and go. Honestly, I’m not great at comforting people, but some things just need to be let go. Life’s still pretty wonderful."

"What have you let go of?" he suddenly asked, looking up.

"What could a soon-to-be spinster like me have let go of? Just relationship troubles." Shen Xifan met his probing gaze and immediately regretted her words. "Hey, no more digging. Drink up—I still need to get home."

He blinked, feigning mystery. "Shen Xifan, I actually wrote one of your recommendation letters."

"I don’t recall asking you for one. You really do have too much free time!"

"Relax, I didn’t say anything bad about you. Though if I were writing it today, I’d add a few more strengths. Still, thank you, Shen Xifan. Honestly, you’re better off not being a manager—that lukewarm attitude of yours really grates on me!"

"Ling Yufan, keep your voice down. The other guests are staring."

"They’re staring because I’m handsome!"

"Narcissist!"

The night had deepened, the city’s fading lights spreading softly across the skyline.She clutched the bag of preserved plums as she stepped off the bus, immediately spotting He Suye alighting from the next bus with his backpack. Turns out, they'd been on different bus schedules yet arrived home at the same time.

What an amusing coincidence.

He Suye's eyes instantly locked onto the large bag of preserved plums, his expression slightly disapproving. "Little girl, why are you snacking on junk again? The prescription I wrote was for smoked plums, not these preserved ones."

Shen Xifan grinned and extended the bag. "Want one? Speaking of which, smoked plums astringe the lungs to stop coughs, contract the intestines to halt diarrhea, and promote fluid production to quench thirst."

He Suye's outstretched hand paused midair as he regarded her suspiciously, then broke into a soft laugh. "Indeed, one should view a person with new eyes after three days apart. You've improved quite a bit, little girl. Soon you'll be able to treat yourself!"

Flustered, she replied, "Oh please, I'm just a quack doctor. Doctor He flatters me too much—I couldn't possibly measure up."

He Suye narrowed his eyes. "Seems you're in good spirits?"

Shen Xifan nodded emphatically. "Absolutely! I just came back from drinking osmanthus smoked plum syrup—felt incredibly refreshed!"

"Where serves that? My homemade version never tastes quite authentic—always lacks just the right sweetness."

"You can make it? I'll have to try yours sometime!"

"Little girl, I asked where serves it."

"Hehe, next time I'll take you there—your treat, of course!"

Watching Shen Xifan skip ahead, her ponytail bouncing, He Suye chuckled softly, the dimple on his right cheek deepening. "Nothing would please me more..."

His voice was so quiet it nearly disappeared into the air.

In that instant, all the streetlights in the neighborhood bloomed to life simultaneously. The night was cool as water.