The Return of the God Level Assassin Chapter 1319 1319: YAN YAN'S 19TH BIRTHDAY (I)

A cheerful mood accompanied LUO YAN through his morning skincare ritual. He meticulously styled his hair before exiting the bathroom and proceeding to his compact walk-in closet to select his attire for the day. A conscious decision was made to present himself with a touch more care today, for it marked his birthday and an anticipated date with Shen Ji Yun later on.

His reflection in the full-length mirror was critically examined. A cream-colored, high-collared cable-knit sweater was visible beneath a smartly tailored charcoal gray wool coat. His dark jeans, sculpted to his slender legs, ended at polished black leather boots. The hair, artfully styled with a subtle wave, was swept back, accentuating his features.

"How can you possibly look this lovely?" he inquired of his reflection, performing a slow turn to assess his appearance from all angles.

Fully content with his presentation, he retrieved his bag and departed his room, making a direct course for the dining room. The Bai family was already gathered around the lengthy table.

"Good morning!" Luo Yan announced, taking his customary seat.

Heads turned, met by warm smiles as greetings were exchanged. Birthday wishes followed, which Luo Yan graciously accepted before the family commenced their breakfast.

"By the way, Xiao Yan, is there truly no possibility of you returning home early this evening?" Aunt Xiulan inquired. "I had intended to prepare a special birthday dinner for you."

Luo Yan offered his aunt an apologetic expression. "I apologize, Aunt Xiulan. My group mates and I are under pressure to complete this project by tonight."

While a group project did exist, its deadline was a fortnight away. He had cited Monday as the due date to his aunt, creating a pretext to spend the evening with Shen Ji Yun. The act of deception weighed on him, yet he couldn't conceive of a more plausible alibi.

An internal sigh escaped him. He yearned for the day when he and Shen Ji Yun could openly acknowledge their relationship to their families. At least, to the family whose opinions genuinely mattered.

"Mother, simply allow Xiao Yan to proceed as he must. You are aware of the demanding schedules students at T University maintain at this juncture. I myself will not be home early either," Bai Ze interjected, casting a knowing glance towards Luo Yan.

His cousin likely sensed something was afoot between him and Shen Ji Yun. Luo Yan offered Bai Ze a small, appreciative nod when he believed no one was observing.

"Ah Ze makes a valid point," Uncle Chen remarked.

"Mother, you can still prepare a special dinner even if Brother Yan Yan is not present," Bai Ye interjected enthusiastically. "I will consume every last bite."

Laughter filled the room at Bai Ye's declaration. Aunt Xiulan regarded her youngest with tender affection. "In that case, I shall prepare something special tonight."

The breakfast conversation was animated, largely centering on the upcoming party. Aunt Xiulan detailed the preparations, Uncle Chen inquired about various arrangements, and Bai Ze contributed his thoughts intermittently. Even Bai Ye expressed excitement about the anticipated meal.

Luo Yan listened and nodded, feigning enthusiasm for the following day's event. While a grand party held little personal appeal, he recognized and valued his aunt's considerable effort in orchestrating it for both him and Luo Jin. Therefore, even without personal excitement, he made a point to convey his gratitude.

***

Luo Yan's final class concluded. As he packed his belongings, two female classmates approached. They extended birthday wishes, which he acknowledged with thanks before departing.

Throughout the day, numerous students offered him birthday greetings. The initial instances caught him somewhat by surprise, not due to a lack of prior announcement, but rather a fleeting memory of Luo Jin's birthday incident. Arcadia's official channel had extended felicitations to AmazingYoungMasterJin, a gesture that had not sat well with his brother.

Promptly, Luo Yan accessed his phone and checked Weibo. As anticipated, Arcadia's official account had indeed posted a birthday message for him as well. He surmised this was a consequence of their shared status within the current championship team, prompting the game's social media to acknowledge their birthdays. Furthermore, anyone who had witnessed the Arcadia Cup finals would recognize him as Noctis. Several students had identified him since the semester began, making birthday wishes following the official post unsurprising.

Luo Yan proceeded directly from the building towards the nearest parking area. He had previously messaged Shen Ji Yun to arrange a meeting there, enabling their immediate departure. He was certain that were he not to do so, Shen Ji Yun would inevitably be waiting for him outside the building.

Upon reaching the parking lot, Shen Ji Yun was immediately discernible. He was leaning against his vehicle but lifted his head as if sensing Luo Yan's approach. A smile bloomed across his face as their eyes met. Luo Yan returned the smile, quickening his stride.

"Have you been waiting long, Brother Ji Yun?" Luo Yan inquired, drawing nearer.

Shen Ji Yun gave a shake of his head and opened the passenger door for Luo Yan. "No, I arrived just a few moments ago."

He then moved to the driver's side and entered the vehicle. Once seated, he turned towards Luo Yan, leaned in, and planted a swift kiss on his lips. "Happy birthday, Yan Yan."

A smile bloomed on Luo Yan's face. "Thank you."

Naturally, Shen Ji Yun had already dispatched a birthday message precisely at midnight. Luo Yan missed it due to heading to bed early. However, the promptness of Shen Ji Yun's message, sent exactly at the turn of the day, signified he was the very first to extend his birthday wishes.

"So, where are we headed for our date?" Luo Yan questioned. "Or is it meant to be a surprise?"

Shen Ji Yun flashed a grin, a rare but broad smile. "It's definitely a surprise."