Chapter 141: A Lesson Learned
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
Xia Xin continued, “You might be feeding these stray cats, but you look so worried while you do it. You’re obviously concerned about your own pet cat, aren’t you? You’re also desperate for money—probably to pay for its medical treatments.”
Chen Li remained silent, which didn’t bother Xia Xin. She continued, “The sickness must be severe to have you so distressed. Have you ever considered letting go and just spending quality time with it instead? Your news-hounding and blackmail might make you quick cash, but you’re breaking the law and missing out on precious moments with your cat. Cats, like humans, crave companionship.”
Chen Li didn’t respond, but he was clearly wrestling with his thoughts. Anan had been with him for four years, ever since he started college. Now that Anan was sick and needed money for treatment, the idea of giving up was heart-wrenching.
Even though every veterinarian had declared Anan beyond help, Chen Li still couldn’t bring himself to believe it. But Xia Xin’s words had touched a chord in him. He thought perhaps what Anan really needed now was his company, not medical interventions.
Xia Xin gently patted Chen Li’s back and comforted, “Spend quality time with your cat. I can give you the money for treatments if you’d like, but don’t be too hard on yourself if it doesn’t work out. Cats love their owners more than anything. Anan wouldn’t want you to be sad because of its departure.”
As if on cue, two stray cats—Little White and Little Black—mewed in unison and ran to nuzzle Chen Li, as though comforting him. Moved by their gesture, Chen Li finally dropped his guard and said, “I apologize for misunderstanding you earlier, and for blackmailing you. I hope you can forgive me.”
Treating the moment like a courtroom verdict, Xia Xin said, “Given that your intentions were for the sake of a cat, I’ll overlook it this time. But be warned, not everyone will be as forgiving next time.”
Chen Li nodded and handed over the memory card containing the blackmail evidence. He had to get back to Anan. Just as he was leaving, Xia Xin stopped him. He looked back, puzzled, and asked, “Is there anything else? I’ve given you the evidence.”
Xia Xin displayed a QR code on her phone and suggested, “Let’s become friends. I promised to help you with Anan’s treatment, remember?”
Chen Li actually already felt that Xia Xin was not a hypocrite, so he was too embarrassed to accept her money again. So he pretended to be cold and said, “I don’t want your money!”
“This money isn’t for you, it’s for the cat. You can pay me back when you have money,” Xia Xin said.
Chen Li was struggling. He really needed the money. Anan’s illness couldn’t wait any longer, so under Xia Xin’s request, he accepted the money half-heartedly.
Later, Xia Xin returned to her film set, leaving behind cat food for the strays.
Sadly, Anan couldn’t hold on and passed away two weeks later. Xia Xin heard from Little White and Little Black that Anan had departed peacefully, even asking them to thank her.
The news left Xia Xin pensive. She was suddenly struck by the realization that animals also possess a range of intricate emotions, just like humans. This understanding seemed to clarify the purpose of her unique gift to communicate with animals.
Xia Xin suddenly had an idea. Since she had become a celebrity and had a certain amount of influence, she must make use of the advantages of her identity to help more animals, so that humans can value animals and live peacefully with animals instead of hurting them, invading their homes, ignoring their thoughts, and wantonly using them as a way to profit.
Resolute, Xia Xin called an animal welfare organization, inquiring about charitable initiatives. She wanted to make a donation in Anan’s name for animal protection.
The staff told Xia Xin that there were many people doing charity work. They noted her interest and promised to involve her in upcoming projects.
Then, a message from Chen Li popped up, surprising Xia Xin.
Chen Li: [Anan has passed away. Thank you for your help and advice. I’m sorry for my previous actions. If there’s any way I can assist you in the future, please let me know.]
Though Xia Xin did have something in mind that Chen Li could help with, she chose to let it pass for now. He had just lost Anan, and his emotional well-being was a priority..
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