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

(TL: Honestly, this chapter stumped me. I hope someone can come up with a better translation. Maybe there's a problem with my raws)

(Additional chapter for Alliance Leader "Cloud Dust Summer" Big Big – Monthly Tickets Please~)

After finalizing art outsourcing, Mei Fang actively provided Guo Yun with design documents and references. Though extremely insecure offline, Guo Yun communicated well digitally, making their collaboration smooth—though it increased Mei Fang's workload considerably.

Creating even a mid-budget indie game solo takes years, let alone Lin Youxi's high expectations forWhite Plum Memories.

"It needs childhood innocence, adolescent awkwardness, youthful passion—plus dramatic twists, separations, and reunions that move players to tears while also—"

"Then hire a dedicated narrative designer!"

"Aren't you the lead designer who can do everything?"

Lin Youxi suddenly emerged from Mei Fang's embrace, lying across his lap gazing up.

"Besides, outsiders would taint our story."

"Since we're the prototypes. Only we can incorporate collected memories properly—including feelings toward Yuan Yuan."

The waitress's extreme reaction instantly enraged a nearby brute who raised his fist—until a phone camera shoved in his face made him recoil:

"Stop filming! Mind your own—keep filming and I'll smash your skull!"

Peng Xue displayed her battered guitar while smiling wryly. "But this gig barely pays. My original songs get no traction—just clinging to survival in Pengcheng rather than becoming my brother's cash cow back home."

"So today was her last shift? No wonder the attitude."

"Another beer crate please—also add—"

As Mei Fang and Lin Youxi bickered over orders, the waitress snapped: "Hurry up! Other customers are waiting!"

"Listen bros—this spa I found has top-tier girls! Even random picks have model-tier figures—totally worth it!"

"Fine…I'll consider it."

"Like that'd happen."

"Hypotheticals are meaningless—we'll never meet again anyway."

"Even if not that…I can help you relax like last hot spring time, right?"

"Sure…"

"Girl, you slapped my buddy today. We brothers share everything—joys and sorrows alike. So now each of us slaps you once—fair, no?"

Lin Youxi had wisely called the police during the confrontation. Officers arrived promptly while she rushed to inspect Mei Fang's injuries.

Mei Fang made small talk with Lin Youxi while stealing glances at the waitress.

After prolonged intimacy on the couch, a disheveled Lin Youxi lay panting:

"I've corrupted you—so proactive lately yet still refusing to…how disappointing."

Lin Youxi mumbled, "I hate hurting you during episodes."

Mei Fang sighed. "Let's drop it. Hopefully they won't harass you later."

"Having your support is enough—cheers!"

"Easy on the drinks!"

"One must say, this barbecue is exceptional…such long queues for a simple stall—how do they—pfft—ah! Summer's first icy beer is divine!"

"Incorrect."

Lin Youxi's gaze fell on a "guitar" in the corner.

"Obviously?"

Mei Fang had saved nearly 200,000 yuan over years—originally for hometown property—but now willingly allocated it for Lin Youxi's game.

[Listen—the river flows past homes clamoring ashore]

The girl nodded incredulously. "I haven't returned to Baimei County in years. How do you know me?"

As their orders arrived, Mei Fang enjoyed skewers between beer sips.

"Waitressing pays peanuts. Let big bro show you Luo Lake's real opportunities!"

"We live in a lawful society—solve issues calmly without violence."

"Too short."

"But now you pin me down so easily~"

"…"

"Don't say that…life's hard for everyone."

Per their agreement, Mei Fang accompanied Lin Youxi to a night market barbecue stall.

"After so many years…you're joking."

[You visited Jiangnan's misty March]

"Hm?"

"See—you and Yuan Yuan share that gentle temperament making you easy targets."

"Tell me about her—what was she like?"

"Nonsense! Without me, you mustn't become such a greasy man—understand?"

Peng Xue shook her head. "No need—just message me."

Mei Fang felt both shocked and pained, but simply smiled. "It's fine."

"I haven't dined out forever—I'm starving!"

"I want deeper connection—beyond just kissing."

Holding Lin Youxi close over drinks, Mei Fang murmured: "Haven't I found true love now?"

Lin Youxi pondered. "Our Yuan Yuan was equally popular in elementary school. Had you been classmates, you'd have adored her too. Why didn't it happen?"

"No need—today's my last shift anyway."

[Summer's return hears cicadas chant]

Peng Xue's cramped apartment overflowed with clutter. She hastily cleared undergarments before serving tea and reminiscing about Baimei County.

"Mei Fang, right? As classmates, I'll be frank."

Peng Xue smiled bitterly. "This shabby life might amuse you—a decade in Pengcheng still waitressing."

Accompanying Peng Xue to treat her wounds, they accepted her invitation home nearby.

"Was it you who called the police? Thank you…truly."