A New Normal

The following week unfolded like any other, with Xiao Ning and Bing Rong slipping back into their respective routines. Despite the recent excitement of announcing their engagement, their professional lives continued at full speed, and both of them had important work to focus on.

Monday Morning:

Xiao Ning sat at his desk in the software company, his fingers flying over the keyboard as he worked on his latest project. To his colleagues, he was just another skilled software developer, quiet and focused. But behind the scenes, his mind was constantly juggling both his day job and his more dangerous night work as the Army’s top assassin.

Despite the duality of his life, things felt different now. There was a lightness in his chest that hadn’t been there before, a sense of peace knowing that Bing Rong had accepted him, even if she didn’t yet know the full truth. For now, he was content with their growing bond.

His phone buzzed quietly on the desk beside him. He glanced at the screen and saw a message from Bing Rong: "Hope your day’s going well! Dinner together tonight?"

A smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He quickly typed back, "Sounds perfect. Can’t wait."

Meanwhile, across town, Bing Rong was sitting at her desk at the Police Intelligence headquarters, deep in thought as she reviewed a case file. Her team had been working on a complex investigation, and as captain, she was responsible for every detail. Her mind was sharp and focused, but every now and then, her thoughts drifted to Xiao Ning.

She had been so sure that he wasn’t the right match for her—convinced that she needed someone who could match her strength and skills. But over the past few weeks, she had begun to see the side of Xiao Ning she hadn’t before. There was a quiet strength in him, and though she didn’t know the full extent of his capabilities, she found herself drawn to him more and more each day.

Her phone vibrated, pulling her out of her thoughts. It was a message from Xiao Ning: "Looking forward to tonight. I’ll pick you up at 7."

She smiled, feeling a warmth in her chest. "See you then," she replied, already anticipating their evening together.

Friday Evening:

The workweek passed in a blur, and soon it was Friday evening. As promised, Xiao Ning arrived at Bing Rong’s apartment at 7 PM sharp, dressed in casual clothes that gave him a relaxed, easygoing look. He knocked on the door, and moments later, Bing Rong opened it, a smile on her face.

“You’re right on time,” she said, stepping aside to let him in.

“I always am,” Xiao Ning replied with a grin. “Are you ready for our first official date as an engaged couple?”

Bing Rong chuckled. “I think I am. Where are we going?”

“I thought we’d keep it simple tonight,” Xiao Ning said. “There’s a new restaurant near the riverfront that I’ve been wanting to try. It’s got a great view, and I figured we could take a walk by the water afterward.”

“That sounds perfect,” Bing Rong said, grabbing her jacket and slipping it on. “Let’s go.”

The two of them left the apartment and headed to the restaurant, enjoying the cool evening breeze as they walked side by side. It was strange, in a way, to be out together like this. For so long, their relationship had been defined by misunderstandings and delays. But now, there was a sense of ease between them, as if the weight of uncertainty had finally been lifted.

When they arrived at the restaurant, they were seated at a table with a stunning view of the river. The soft glow of the city lights reflected off the water, creating a serene atmosphere.

As they perused the menu, Xiao Ning glanced at Bing Rong. “I’ve been thinking a lot about how things have changed between us,” he said. “I’m glad we decided to give this a real chance.”

Bing Rong looked up from the menu, her expression soft. “So am I. I was so focused on what I thought I wanted that I didn’t realize what I had right in front of me.”

Xiao Ning smiled, reaching across the table to take her hand. “Well, I’m not going anywhere. I’m here, for as long as you’ll have me.”

Bing Rong squeezed his hand gently. “Then I guess you’re stuck with me.”

They shared a laugh, and the conversation flowed easily throughout the meal. They talked about everything—from their work to their childhoods to their hopes for the future. It felt natural, like they were finally beginning to understand each other on a deeper level.

After dinner, they walked along the river, the sound of the water lapping against the shore providing a peaceful backdrop. They strolled in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying each other’s presence.

As they reached a quiet spot along the riverbank, Xiao Ning paused and turned to Bing Rong. “I know we still have a lot to figure out,” he said softly. “But I’m really happy we’re here, together.”

Bing Rong smiled, her heart full. “Me too, Xiao Ning. Me too.”

The Weekend: More Dates and Time Together

Over the next few weekends, Xiao Ning and Bing Rong made it a point to spend more time together outside of their busy work schedules. They went on more dates, exploring different parts of the city—sometimes trying new restaurants, other times visiting quiet parks or art galleries. Each time, they grew a little closer, their bond deepening with each shared moment.

During one of their weekends, they decided to visit a martial arts exhibition. While they both kept their professional lives as martial artists somewhat separate from their personal relationship, it was something they both had in common. They watched the demonstrations with interest, occasionally exchanging knowing glances when they recognized certain techniques.

“Not bad,” Bing Rong remarked as she watched a particularly skilled performance. “But I think we could take them.”

Xiao Ning chuckled, leaning in close. “I have no doubt.”

As the weekends passed, their connection grew stronger, and soon, spending time together became the highlight of their week. Whether it was a quiet night at home or a day out exploring, they found comfort in each other’s presence.

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