Obsessive Pleasure - Chapter 5

It was Saturday, and Liang Yun was working overtime at the company. The office building was deserted, with only her inside. She stretched and yawned, feeling a little lackluster.

She suddenly realized she’d forgotten lunch. Checking the time, she decided to skip it.

She’d just head home early and grab something quick through the McDonald’s drive-thru.

 Since she was alone, and no one else relied on her for a meal, tossing something together was fine.

Her phone suddenly rang. It was Chen Yang.

Liang Yun felt instantly flustered. For the past week, she had been the only one initiating contact. This was the first time he had called her.

Liang Yun took a deep breath and answered, feigning calm.

 “Hello, Dr. Chen.”

Chen Yang seemed to chuckle softly on the other end. “Are you free?”

Liang Yun glanced at the rest of her work. I can finish it tomorrow.

Yes, I’m free. What’s up?

Do you remember I mentioned an alternative intervention to medication?

 I wanted to introduce you to it today.” Chen Yang’s voice sounded more relaxed and perhaps a little lazier than when she last saw him, likely due to the weekend.

Are you working overtime at the hospital? Liang Yun asked, confused.

It has nothing to do with the hospital. I’ll take you out to eat. There are a few people I’d like you to meet.

It’s probably one of those mutual support groups, like for addiction or something, she thought. She’d seen plenty of those during her years abroad.

Liang Yun dismissed the idea. So this is his great solution!

She didn’t believe a simple chat group would help her condition, but considering the kindness Chen Yang had shown her, she agreed, if only to save face for him.

Alright, when? Liang Yun asked.

Chen Yang keenly picked up on her tone. “‘Alright?’ Why, not very enthusiastic?

Liang Yun decided to be honest, hoping to avoid wasting both their time. Dr. Chen, I’ve attended those types of support groups before. They weren’t very helpful for my situation.

She paused, then continued, Besides, my condition seems to have improved recently.

Oh, really? Already seeing progress!” Chen Yang sounded pleased, yet also possessed a confident, I-knew-it quality. 

However, what I want to introduce you to is not a support group.

Liang Yun didn’t admit that ever since Chen Yang had entered her life, even just as a quiet presence without much interference, she seemed to have found a sense of reliance. Even reporting to him had become a new, meaningful part of her daily routine.

This was probably a significant factor in her improvement.

It was like a sailor at sea, completely adrift, who spots the distant column of light from a lighthouse. Though only a tiny, faraway comfort, it still makes you feel that someone, somewhere, cares about you in this vast world.

Chen Yang had oddly occupied the corner of Liang Yun’s heart responsible for security, even though they were barely even acquaintances.

How strange!

I’m in the parking lot in front of your building, Chen Yang stated directly when Liang Yun remained silent, announcing his location.

Huh, you’re here? How did you know I was here?” Liang Yun instinctively wanted to rush to the window to peer out, but restrained herself, afraid he’d mock her panic.

Chen Yang’s voice remained calmly unfazed. You told me last night.

Did I? I don’t remember reporting my schedule to him.

Good, otherwise I’d seriously think he was a stalker.

Wait for me, then. Liang Yun quickly smoothed her hair in the mirror and added a light coat of lip gloss. Since it was the weekend, she hadn’t bothered with makeup when she left home.

She picked up her trench coat from the hanger, ready to leave, but then stopped.

No, I can’t go out this fast. That would make me look too impatient.

Liang Yun sat in front of her powered-off computer, her mind inexplicably flashing back to the night she first met Chen Yang, the night she was lying in bed. The tremor in her soul, the stirring in her body.

Her thoughts were chaotic, her resolve wavering.

What is this? This isn’t even a date. At best, it’s a doctor-patient relationship, right?

By the time Liang Yun finally made up her mind and descended to the parking lot, Chen Yang was leaning against his car, talking on the phone.

He saw Liang Yun approach and gave her a warm smile, gesturing for her to wait.

Liang Yun stopped a few meters away. She didn’t want Chen Yang to think she lacked boundaries or was trying to eavesdrop on his private conversation.

Chen Yang quickly ended the call and waved her over. He courteously ushered Liang Yun into the car, explaining as if to clarify. 

That was my friend. I was letting them know I’m bringing you.