Only After I Was Reborn Did I Realize That I Had Childhood Sweethearts

Due to the company's expansion, land purchases, external financing, and significant loans in the second half of the year, Mei Fang and his team temporarily put their home-buying plans on hold to prioritize cost-saving measures. They planned to revisit the idea later in the year or early next year, continuing to rent for now.

Their newly rented apartment in Pengcheng was located in a high-end residential complex opposite Pengcheng University's Aohai campus. For the past month, they had lived and worked in this three-bedroom unit, which cost 15,000 yuan a month, with each of them having their own room and professional cleaners coming weekly.

Though the location relative to the school was similar to their previous setup in Jiangcheng, Pengcheng University was situated in the bustling downtown area of Lanshan District, surrounded by commercial centers. While it wasn't the spacious penthouse Lin Youxi had once envisioned, it was still a great place.

Of course, this was slightly different from Mei Fang's initial expectations.

He had assumed that, given his financial standing, he'd be considered a local heavyweight in Lanshan District. But after interacting with the city's elite, he realized he was just a nouveau riche with some spare cash—nowhere near the level of the "Pengcheng first-generation" entrepreneurs who had thrived since the reform and opening-up era.

But there was no point in comparing. The limitations of the times were what they were—Mei Fang's vision was rooted in the 21st century, and the rapid growth of the previous century had nothing to do with him.

Still, living in such a luxurious three-bedroom apartment in Pengcheng's prime location was something he could hardly have imagined before.

After moving in, the trio redistributed the rooms.

Xia Yuan and Lin Youxi each took a secondary bedroom, while Mei Fang occupied the master bedroom at the far end. However, despite it being "his" room, he hardly had it to himself—after all, he still had nightly duties to attend to.

The shelves beside the TV were packed with games Mei Fang had bought on a whim—many of which he hadn't even played. He just liked having them there, purely for the joy of being a gamer.

The sofa in the living room was so plush it could double as a bed—an upgraded flagship version of the one they'd had in their office. Fully extended, it had more than enough space for the three of them to roll around, complete with a vibration massage function. The sofa was strewn with plushies designed by C Station, including life-sized dakimakura of their own anime avatars.

Between the sofa and the balcony stood three high-end desktop PCs, each costing over 20,000 yuan, arranged in an equilateral triangle formation. Whether working or gaming together, the setup was perfect. Against the wall on Mei Fang's side was a display cabinet showcasing their collection of high-quality figurines—none tied to any particular favorite anime, just ones they'd picked based on craftsmanship.

In this warm, cozy, and tastefully decorated three-bedroom home, Mei Fang's daily life was undoubtedly fulfilling. However, this idyllic existence was about to be temporarily interrupted as the start of the school year approached. New students were arriving in Pengcheng, including Mei Fang's old friend Zhang Ming.

Mei Fang personally picked Zhang Ming up, treated him to a meal, and drove him to a hotel near the university.

Frankly, in their past lives, Mei Fang and Zhang Ming had been much closer. But even now, there was no real awkwardness between them. Sitting in the passenger seat of Mei Fang's sleek, spacious Benz S550, Zhang Ming chatted idly about their hometown while gazing at Pengcheng's skyline. Everywhere they looked, posters of the trio promoting theFandomverse Projectlined the streets, prompting Zhang Ming to sigh:

"Who would've thought the guy who used to push me to be group leader would become such a big shot now…"

Leaning back in the seat, Zhang Ming studied Mei Fang as he drove. "Hey, now that you're this rich, don't you dare let down those two childhood friends of yours."

"Come on, this passenger seat's barely been used—other than the three of us, you're the first one here."

"Wait, this spot's that exclusive? And you wouldn't even let me sit in the back earlier?"

"Well, there's another reason for that…"

Mei Fang chuckled, avoiding further explanation. "Anyway, how about you? Any love interests lately?"

"I haven't built an empire like yours, so I'm focusing on making money first."

"You say that, but you turned down joining the Coconut Milk project team—that's where the real money is."

"Even while chasing money, I still have some gaming dreams left."

Zhang Ming thought for a moment. "After finishing The Cloud Journey, what's next? I've fleshed out a few of the concepts you gave me—want to take a look when you have time…?"

"Right now, all our manpower's tied up with Coconut Milk. We need to make money to fund expansion. Indie games will have to wait…"

"This is always how it is with you bosses. Talk all big about staying true to your dreams, but when it comes down to it, you slack off."

"Being the boss isn't as easy as you think."

Mei Fang smiled. "But if you're really determined to do your own thing, try incubating a game yourself. I can give you a proposal and a small budget, but you'll have to assemble the team—whether it's university friends or outside hires, your resources are limited. I may be the boss, but business is business—no special treatment."

"Fair enough. The company's gotta make money—can't just support us for free."

Zhang Ming nodded. "Besides… I want to give it a shot myself. Unlike you, I'm not some big-shot CEO—I've got plenty of time to work on those projects."

"Sounds good."

Mei Fang grinned. As the car stopped at a 100-second red light, he changed the subject: "By the way, since we're catching up, let's not just talk work. How's your love life? Have you moved on?"

"Lu Xueqing went up north for college. Doubt we'll ever see each other again. Not that she ever cared about me, so whatever…"

"That doesn't sound like you've moved on at all…"

Mei Fang sighed. "You're not a bad catch—there'll be girls who like you. To forget Lu Xueqing, all you need is time and someone new."

"Why are we talking about me? What about you? You're dating Lin Youxi now, but Xia Yuan's still living with you guys, right? Doesn't that get awkward? I'd think both Xia Yuan and Lin Youxi would feel weird—I mean, she's your ex."

"But they get along really well…"

"I know you three grew up together and are close, but still, they're just friends. Won't things get uncomfortable over time? Don't let success blind you to their feelings. Some things need to be said clearly…"

Hearing Zhang Ming—who in their past life had been carefree and only interested in fun—now seriously analyzing his love life, Mei Fang couldn't help but burst out laughing.

"Dude, I'm trying to help, and you're laughing? So heartless."

"No, no… Thanks for caring about my love life, but it's really not an issue."

"Not an issue? What do you mean…?"

"Because YuanYuan and Youxi are both my girlfriends. The whole breakup thing was just an act for everyone else."

"An… act?"

Mei Fang briefly explained the three-way relationship plan between him, Xia Yuan, and Lin Youxi. Zhang Ming's young mind was utterly blown. At first, he looked completely disbelieving. "Look, Boss Mei, you can lie to your bros, but don't lie to yourself…"

"Ugh, why would I lie about this? What's the point? Just look at the fact that YuanYuan and Youxi still live with me—that should tell you everything."

Zhang Ming was stunned. "I still don't buy it. I know you three are close, but those two are amazing girls. They're proud—how could they ever agree to share one boyfriend…?"

"Because my love is sincere. Sincerity is the ultimate weapon."

"You bastard… Well played."

Zhang Ming could only laugh helplessly. "But for you three, this really is the best outcome. No one gets hurt, no one has to fight over you. Just… don't go around telling people. It'll ruin your reputation."

"Thanks for the concern. I'm only telling close friends—you're the second-to-last in the group to know."

"What?! I'm second-to-last in your heart?!"

"Are you complaining it's too high or too low?"

"We're the only two guys in that group. I'm just curious who's last—who else haven't you told?"

"Haven't told Yue Xinyi yet, I think? Or maybe Peng Xue told her. I don't really remember."

"No way. Since Peng Xue dropped out to retake the exams, no one's seen her. Every time Yue Xinyi asks her out, she says she's busy studying."

Zhang Ming shook his head. "Feels like dropping out hit her hard."

"Yeah… no kidding."

"You know something?"

Mei Fang shook his head. "I only met her once—how would I know?"

"Well, hope she gets into a good college this time."

Zhang Ming scratched his head. "But I'm satisfied knowing I rank higher in your heart than Yue Xinyi."

"Not telling Yue Xinyi is on Youxi—she's a bit distant… doesn't really care about those friends."

"The class prez isn't distant—she just cares too much about you." Zhang Ming said. "Even back in middle school, she only had eyes for you. You just didn't notice."

Didn't notice?

Of course I noticed… Haha.

After dropping Zhang Ming off at his hotel, Mei Fang drove home.

Tomorrow was the official start of the school year. Most students would arrive with their parents in tow, but the trio were already independent adults who didn't need chaperones.

Independent kids… already deciding their own futures.

Parking in the complex's garage, Mei Fang carried the small gifts he'd bought for Xia Yuan and Lin Youxi to the door, unlocking it with his fingerprint. But unlike usual, he wasn't greeted by their warm embraces.

After changing his shoes, he found Lin Youxi resting her head on the dining table, a bottle of red wine beside her. The sound of his arrival woke her, and she sat up, meeting his gaze.

"Oh, did I wake you?"

"It's fine… I wasn't really sleeping." Rubbing her eyes, Lin Youxi watched as Mei Fang approached and set down the gifts. "Where's YuanYuan? Where'd she go…?"

"She went out with Liu Xiaoyu. Not back yet."

Lin Youxi paused, then added, "Can you drink with me? I… have something to say."

Mei Fang hesitated briefly before nodding gently.

"Sure."

They turned off the living room lights, set up a small table with candles on the balcony, and let the mood settle.

Lin Youxi poured wine for both of them, filling their glasses halfway before lightly clinking them together.

"What's the occasion…?"

Mei Fang sipped his wine, deliberately playing dumb. Lin Youxi just smiled faintly, gazing at the night sky.

"Just felt like drinking with you. Plus… the moon is beautiful tonight."

"Huh? Uh…"

Mei Fang glanced up but saw no moon—the city lights drowned it out.

After a beat, he decided to call her out. "I don't see a moon."

"The moon I'm talking about… is in your heart."

The dim candlelight and the scent of incense created a dreamy, intoxicating atmosphere. Lin Youxi's features, illuminated by the flickering flames, looked especially mysterious.

Holding her glass, she stared deeply at Mei Fang, her cheeks faintly flushed, her eyes shimmering.

"What's this… We've known each other so long. Why suddenly flirt with me now?"

"Because I want to flirt with you one last time… to leave us with the most beautiful memories before we part."

Mei Fang's expression shifted to surprise. "What do you mean… Are you… breaking up with me?"

"Mhm."

"Did I upset you?"

"You've been wonderful to me."

"Did I get too close to YuanYuan? Did that bother you?"

"It's not about YuanYuan. I don't mind that."

"Then why…?"

"In the end… it's because I love you too much, and you love me too much."

Lin Youxi smiled and shook her head. "Right now, our business is expanding rapidly. We can't let personal feelings interfere with our future plans."

"What 'personal feelings'? I built all this… for you and YuanYuan. I want you both to have a brighter future, but you two—first YuanYuan dumps me, now you? Am I just some toy you're done playing with?"

Despite his efforts to stay calm, Mei Fang's anger and sorrow spilled over. His voice trembled as he raised it.

"If you've fallen out of love, just say it! Don't hide behind work and career excuses—I can't accept something so absurd!"

Perhaps unprepared for his outburst, Lin Youxi bit her lip, tears glistening in her eyes as she watched the heartbroken boy before her.

She pressed a hand to her chest and leaned closer.

"How could I ever stop loving you? Since we were kids, you've been the only boy in my eyes. Nothing in this world could ever tear us apart—not even if you tried to leave me."

"You don't want to separate, yet you're ending our relationship. Isn't that contradictory?"

"Some things don't require being together to understand… Sometimes, stepping back and creating distance helps us see each other more clearly."

She drained her glass, then pushed the candle aside, leaning across the table to cradle Mei Fang's face.

"And I know… your heart doesn't belong to me alone. She's just as important to you. The longer we stay together, the deeper your guilt toward her grows."

"Even I don't want her to become the 'one who got away' in your heart. So I'd rather let you go—let you think carefully and make the choice you truly want. Isn't that better?"

Mei Fang didn't respond immediately, silently drinking his wine.

Lin Youxi snatched the glass from him, took a sip, then climbed into his lap, tilting her head back as she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply.

Stirred by the passion, Mei Fang pulled her close, savoring the last embers of their love.

Lin Youxi stayed in his arms, their lips locked until the candle burned out.

When Xia Yuan returned and turned on the lights, she was startled to find the two entwined on the balcony. Only then did they finally pull apart.

"What the hell are you two doing?!"

"Breaking up."

Lin Youxi wiped her lips with a tissue, sighing melodramatically. "Mine and A-Fang's love story has reached a temporary end. We're both single again."

"That's just the public persona, right? Why are you acting at home? Who's even watching…?"

"Do you… really have to break up?"

Mei Fang looked genuinely distressed. "Even though I know it's an act, it still hurts… I don't want to lose you."

"Don't be sad. It can't be helped… You can't let go of YuanYuan or your work either, right? Be good, my Fangbao. You need to grow up and learn to stand on your own."

"But… we've always grown up together. How can you leave me alone now…?"

"How are you two still in character…?"

Xia Yuan massaged her temples in exasperation. "Once you've milked the drama enough, go take a shower. Oh, A-Fang—where's the gift you were supposed to bring me?"

"Hold on… I need to stay in the moment a little longer."

Mei Fang covered his face, playing the devastated lover before pulling Lin Youxi back into a tight embrace. "Don't leave me… got it?"

"Alright… We're just not dating publicly anymore. Everything else stays the same, okay?"

Lin Youxi patted his head soothingly. Xia Yuan, watching from the side, couldn't help but pout, fiddling with her hair as her face reddened. "Y-You're just too into the act! Later, when A-Fang's in bed, Youxi and I will spoil you rotten—"

Before she could finish, Lin Youxi cut in:

"Wait, tonight you might not need to come to the master bedroom. I want to be alone with A-Fang."

"What?! No fair!"

"A-Fang and I still have a 'breakup night' to get through. Rumor says deeply-in-love couples always do this before parting. If you join in, it'll ruin the immersion."

Mei Fang, currently enjoying the feel of Lin Youxi's stockings, nodded in agreement. "Yeah… YuanYuan, you should rest early tonight. School starts tomorrow…"

"I don't care! When I 'broke up' with A-Fang, we didn't do any of this fancy stuff! You think I'm dumb? Fine—if you won't let me join, I'll just crash the party!"

Though she hadn't rehearsed any lines, Xia Yuan's shamelessness carried the scene. Truly, a talent in its own right.