After Transmigrating into a Professional Bootlicker, I Messed Up - Chapter 81.1

Extra Story 4 Part 3

Lin Luo had only intended to play the part of a “delicate beauty” to get Ji Chi’an’s sympathy, but after soaking in the rain, she really did come down with a fever. She had no idea when exactly she drifted off to sleep, but when she woke, she was nestled comfortably in the steady embrace of the young man.

Probably because his scent felt so safe and familiar.

When she opened her eyes again, she was lying in a cramped, dingy rental apartment.

It was truly cramped and worn down—far shabbier than the place she had stayed after her initial transmigration. Still, it had Ji Chi’an’s signature black, white, and gray decor, with spotless windows and not a trace of dust. Cold and minimalist, it still had his distinctive style.

Yes, distinctive at least in appearance.

Lin Luo lay under a blanket on the sofa, watching Ji Chi’an as he sat by the window, writing something. He had changed into a dry shirt, sitting with his back straight, head slightly bent, his long, slender fingers gripping the pen with faintly pale knuckles.

Outside, thunder rumbled and lightning flashed as the wind and rain beat against the windows, rattling them. A dim, yellow light from the table lamp cast a faint glow, his shadow on the wall looking determined and steadfast.

Wrapped in her blanket, Lin Luo thought to herself, So this is what Ji Chi’an’s youth must have been like. He might not have been this poor, but that loneliness and resilience are exactly the same.

She hadn’t been able to accompany him through the hardships of his youth in her last life, but in this life…

Sponsoring a handsome, promising young college student might not be a bad idea?

The “wealthy older woman” Lin Luo couldn’t resist a sly smile.

“Is this your place?” she asked, peeking out from the blanket with a soft, sleepy voice.

Ji Chi’an stopped writing, glanced at her, and said coldly, “If you’re awake, go home on your own. I can’t afford your medical bills.”

Lin Luo squinted at him and pointed to the cold medicine on the table. “You’re lying. You already bought me medicine.”

“Yes, I bought medicine,” he replied, setting down his pen. Turning to her, he leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees with his hands clasped together. “That took three days’ worth of my food money. So, if you’re not completely heartless, don’t cause me any more trouble.”

“I can pay for it, you know.”

“Of course you’ll pay for it.”

Lin Luo: …

So not only could Ji Chi’an be shamelessly wealthy, but he could also be confidently broke. This attitude was far from warm-hearted.

But she really liked him for it. A “Mr. Nice Guy” type wasn’t her thing; she liked Ji Chi’an’s cool, aloof side, knowing he’d be warm only for her.

Although he wasn’t warm to her yet, Lin Luo was confident he’d eventually fall under her charm, and she believed he would remember their past life together someday.

Sniffling, she tightened the blanket around herself. “It’s so cold. Could I have some hot water?”

With a deadpan expression, Ji Chi’an poured her a cup of water, tested the temperature with the back of his hand, then placed it in front of her. “Take your medicine with it.”

Cradling the cup, Lin Luo nodded and glanced around. “If you’re so short on money, why don’t you stay in a dorm?”

“I work late, and dorms aren’t convenient. This place is cheap.”

He finished his explanation and returned to his chair, picking up his pen again.

Lin Luo nodded thoughtfully. She had never experienced this kind of life before and hadn’t realized it could be so difficult. She wondered what Ji Chi’an would think if he knew he was supposed to be filthy rich.

After drinking her hot water, Lin Luo still felt cold, only then realizing she was still wearing her rain-soaked clothes. What happened to the old Ji Chi’an? she thought. Back then, he’d have changed my clothes and held me until I was asleep.

Ah, I miss sleeping in his arms.

She sidled up to the desk, gripping the edge with both hands, resting her chin on top, and blinked at him. “Um, classmate, I got soaked in the rain, and my clothes are all wet. I’ll get even sicker if I don’t change. Could you lend me a clean shirt?”

Time for the classic “boyfriend shirt” move! She thought with a smirk. You’re going to be seduced!

Without looking up, Ji Chi’an pointed to the door. “Your suitcase.”

Lin Luo: …

Then he pointed to the side. “Bathroom.”

Lin Luo: …

“Oh.”

Hopelessly dense.

“Can I borrow your shower?”

“Go ahead.”

He still didn’t look up.

Lin Luo couldn’t quite tell if he was just agreeable or indifferent. Pouting, she made her way to the bathroom.

The “bathroom” was really just a tiny space sectioned off with frosted glass and a shower curtain, with a showerhead installed.

But it was very clean. Lin Luo inspected the place and saw only men’s shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush—no stray hairs or clutter. She was very satisfied.

🎭 Behind the Curtain with Kliraz: Enter the Broke Prince Charming! 🌧️

In China, sharing a small, humble space like this reflects Ji Chi’an’s down-to-earth character. It’s the opposite of typical male leads who flaunt wealth, adding a fresh twist to the romance trope! (≧∇≦)ﾉ

The whole “three days of food money” for medicine? Yep, that’s not just made up! In cities like Beijing, students scrimp and save for small expenses, so a bottle of cold medicine really could break the bank.

Lin Luo’s willingness to help financially reflects “empathetic altruism.” When people truly love someone, they’re often willing to give without expecting anything in return. Her approach to “supporting” Ji Chi’an is all about offering, not asking.

In Chinese dramas, dense male leads are less common—typically, they’re smooth and charismatic. Ji Chi’an’s indifferent response is a refreshing spin that’s way more relatable!

Ever tried dropping hints that went way over someone’s head? Share your cringe moments below! ヽ(｀⌒´)ノ