A NEW HOME

The following morning, Lin Mei arrived bright and early to help Liu Wei with the move. They worked together, loading Liu Wei's belongings into the car with an easy camaraderie that spoke of years of friendship.

As they drove towards the ZUZU apartments, Lin Mei glanced over at Liu Wei with a nostalgic smile. "Remember when we used to dream about the future back in college? We thought everything would be so different."

Liu Wei laughed, her mood lightening. "Yes, we were so optimistic. It's funny how we've changed so much, except when it comes to expressing our feelings."

Lin Mei nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Some things never change, I guess."

Arriving at the ZUZU apartments, Liu Wei and Lin Mei navigated through the building, finally reaching apartment 303. Liu Wei's heart raced with a mix of excitement and anxiety. But when they opened the door, they were met with an unexpected sight.

The apartment was empty, and there was no sign of Xiao Chu. Instead, a note was stuck to the refrigerator. Liu Wei peeled it off and read:

"Don't bother to touch anything. I won't be back home for 2 days, so please take care of my husky, my pet cat. Thanks!"

Liu Wei's frustration flared as she realized the inconvenience of the situation. However, as she looked around the apartment, she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. The space was charming and welcoming, and it felt like a good fit despite the circumstances.

"Looks like we've got a cat to take care of," Lin Mei said, trying to lighten the mood.

Liu Wei sighed, trying to focus on the positives. "I guess it's better than having no place at all."

Later that evening, the two friends decided to treat themselves to a hotpot dinner. They found a cozy restaurant and settled in, their conversation flowing easily as they enjoyed the warm, comforting meal.

As they dipped vegetables and meats into the bubbling broth, Liu Wei reflected on her day. The move, the unexpected note, and her new life ahead were all a bit overwhelming, but having Lin Mei by her side made it all seem a little more manageable.

"Thanks for helping me today, Lin Mei," Liu Wei said, lifting her glass in a toast. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Lin Mei smiled warmly. "That's what friends are for. And who knows? Maybe this new place will turn out to be just what you needed."

Liu Wei clinked her glass with Lin Mei's, feeling a sense of hope and gratitude. As they enjoyed their hotpot, the challenges of the day seemed a little less daunting, and the future a bit brighter.