Chapter 1188: Chapter 1188: Extra Story of the Eel 25

“Do you like him?”

Su Man was confused.

Up until now, she had never doubted her feelings for Li Li.

After all, all these years, he was her only close friend. Both their families tacitly approved of them being together, and even Li Li himself had joked multiple times, saying, “Relax, if no man wants you in the future, I’ll take you in~”

Remarks like that felt like a subtle confession.

Although they often argued, he treated her well in many ways–buying her gifts, taking her out. Their interactions carried an air of being more than friends, but not quite lovers.

Su Man herself inwardly accepted this kind of relationship.

She always felt things would gradually fall into place…

But recently, she started realizing that things didn’t seem to be unfolding as she had imagined.

When did it start to change?

Su Man couldn’t figure it out. She could clearly see the trajectory of change, yet she couldn’t understand the reason behind it. She felt a sense of helplessness, as if something was pushing her forward, leaving her no choice but to follow.

Lu Yuwen had been quietly observing her. When no answer came, he felt both relieved and uneasy. Deliberating carefully, he asked:

“You’re not answering–does that mean you don’t like him, or… you’re unsure?”

After a pause, he added, “Or is it that you just don’t want to say?”

Su Man glanced at him with a troubled expression, “I don’t know…”

Lu Yuwen thought for a moment and suggested, “If you’re feeling confused and don’t know how to express it, how about this–I’ll try to analyze it for you. If what I say is right, just nod. If I’m wrong, interrupt me. How does that sound?”

Su Man nodded.

Lu Yuwen said, “You and that boy grew up together. You share childhood friendship, as well as the budding affection from adolescence. These mixed emotions naturally make you feel good about him, but you’re unsure if you’re truly in love with him. And likewise, you’re uncertain if he shares the same feelings for you.”

Su Man pressed her lips together, furrowing her brows tightly.

She had initially thought that she liked Li Li, but now that Lu Yuwen had broken it down, she realized her “liking” might not necessarily be true love. Could it instead be a blend of friendship and the unique affections tied to adolescence?

And Li Li? Did he think the same way? Was that why he had never explicitly defined their relationship?

Lu Yuwen studied her for a while before speaking again. “Actually, figuring out your feelings is quite simple. Just imagine–he marries another woman. How would you feel?”

Su Man’s brows furrowed even deeper.

“Very… uncomfortable, but it’s not something I couldn’t accept…” she murmured hesitantly.

Lu Yuwen fixed his gaze on her and asked, “Let’s say–hypothetically–he knows it would make you uncomfortable, but he insists on marrying that woman anyway. What would you do?”

This time, Su Man didn’t hesitate and responded immediately, “Of course I wouldn’t do anything. If he likes someone else, he’s free to marry her. I’m not one of those women who clings on hopelessly!”

Lu Yuwen chuckled, curving his lips into a smile. “So your worry actually stems from not knowing his feelings, which is why you haven’t been able to adjust your mindset. You’re unsure whether to treat him as a close soul mate or just an ordinary friend.”

Su Man thought carefully and said, “Hmm… seems like that’s the case.”

“Actually, figuring out his feelings is simple too.” Lu Yuwen smiled. “Last time I called you Manman, he seemed a bit wary. Maybe he also needs some external stimuli. You could try spending more time with me–see how he reacts.”

Su Man looked up at him, her lashes quickly lowering as if uneasy. “H-how do we spend time together?”

Lu Yuwen smiled and glanced into the distance near the hospital. “I’ll be visiting a few renowned local restaurants soon to gather information. Going alone tends to draw attention–how about you accompany me as my date? We can help each other out.”