Axolotl Translations

The night helped hide Wen Shu’s lingering gaze. He let his eyes wander across the girl’s face, bold but with a quiet affection.

Last night, she had invaded his dreams like a dazzling seductress, pulling him toward danger with every move. She was mesmerizing—so much so that even this morning, he could still recall the outlines of that dream, her graceful figure flickering in his mind.

“So… what do you think of me?” he asked her in return, curious to know if her feelings were still the same.

“Hey, no fair! I asked you first, so you have to go first!”

“You’re perfect. Honestly, I don’t think you have any flaws.”

Mu Fu’s cheeks flushed deep red, her whole body warmed as embarrassment bubbled up inside her.

She hadn’t expected Wen Shu to say something so sweet. In her heart, getting him to fall for her was a ten-step process. They had only reached step two… maybe three.

But apparently, he was already at step six.

“M-Me? I’m not that perfect… Most people say I’m pretty spoiled,” she said in a small voice, a little bashful.

Wen Shu laughed—a soft, soothing sound that slipped right into her heart.

“Let them talk. You don’t need to listen to that.” As far as he could tell, she wasn’t spoiled at all. She handled her tasks with quiet determination and never acted like she was above anything.

Honestly, he wouldn’t mind if she acted a little more delicate. That way, only he could handle her. And over time… she wouldn’t be able to live without him. A slightly possessive thought, yes—but not one he planned on revealing.

Mu Fu had only said it to appear modest. Deep down, she didn’t think there was anything wrong with her.

She nodded softly. “Okay.”

“And what kind of person do you think I am?” Wen Shu asked with a casual tone.

Without hesitation, she beamed. “You’re amazing. And super handsome!” Her eyes were wide with sincerity.

Wen Shu felt his heart soften. “Thanks,” he murmured.

“I mean it,” she said, her face still pink.

Wen Shu stared at Mu Fu for a moment, saying nothing. There were too many thoughts racing through his mind—too many feelings all at once.

So they just sat there quietly for a while.

Around them, the small courtyard had started to settle down for the night. Most of the windows were now dark—people were heading to bed.

With a gentle smile, Wen Shu finally broke the silence. “It’s getting late. Let’s head back and get some sleep.”

Mu Fu nodded, falling in step beside him as they walked back together.

Her room was right next to his.

When they arrived, she opened her door and glanced shyly at him. “Good night,” she said softly, eyes lingering on his face with shy affection.

The look in her eyes tugged at his heart. Without thinking, Wen Shu reached out and softly ruffled her hair. Her strands were smooth and cool to the touch, sliding between his fingers like silk. He’d always had a thing for her long, dark hair—and now, he’d finally touched it.

“Good night. Sweet dreams,” he murmured.

“Mm.” Mu Fu answered softly, then spun around and fled into her room, her face burning red and her eyes glossy with emotion.

That brief touch of his had sent a shiver all the way down her spine, a tingling warmth spreading from head to toe. She’d barely kept herself from making a sound.

She was shocked at how sensitive she was. And if that was her reaction to just a hair ruffle… she didn’t even dare think what would happen if he ever touched her more than that.

Wen Shu chuckled as he watched her retreat. His lips curled into a soft smile, and a trace of indulgent affection flickered in his eyes. Mu Fu was the kind of girl who could effortlessly steal someone’s heart.

And knowing he’d be spending the next three days with her? That made him look forward to tomorrow more than ever.

……

Morning arrived quickly.

Everyone was up bright and early—after all, the show had asked them to gather at 8 a.m. sharp.

At Mu Fu’s feet sat a large military green camouflage backpack, provided by the production team. It was roomy enough to pack everything she thought she might need.

Meanwhile, the four male contestants—including Wen Shu—were dressed in military-style camouflage uniforms with matching hats. They stood tall and straight, looking sharp, energetic, and more than ready for whatever came next.

As soon as everyone was present, the production team brought out a table loaded with supplies for the contestants to choose from.

A crew member stepped forward and said, “You all know where you’re going today. Each group can now choose five items from this table to take with you. Also, these two bags here are special date gift packs for yesterday’s winners. Don’t worry—you won’t have to carry them. We’ll send them directly to your destination.”

Everyone appreciated the gesture—it was one less thing to haul around.

The staff member continued, “Each pack has a list of its contents written on a note. Take a look before you pick your items.” He handed the slips of paper to Wen Shu and Fang Yuhang.

Mu Fu leaned in beside Wen Shu to peek. The list included: a Swiss army knife, lighter and matches, a tent, a whistle, compressed biscuits, a small water bottle, first-aid supplies, a small cooking pot, and two stainless steel lunch boxes—plus one other item she couldn’t quite make out.

Everything on the list felt like something they could use.

On the main table, there was a much wider range of items—most of what was in the gift packs could be found there too. That definitely took the pressure off Mu Fu and Fan Xinjie’s group.

Mu Fu bit her lip and whispered, “Wen Shu, can you pick for us? I don’t even know where to start.” Her brain was a jumble of nerves, and her mind went blank just looking at the options. The stuff she really wanted was already in the gift pack anyway.

Wen Shu gave her a soft, amused look. “Sure. Just stay here and wait.”

“Okay, go go go!” she urged, waving him off.

Wen Shu returned with: flammable fuel, rope, a compact foldable shovel, compressed food, and a military-style canteen.

The others weren’t as lucky. Without the bonus packs, their choices were limited and the pressure was on.

Once everyone had finished gathering supplies, the director called out, “Time to go!”

And just like that—the adventure began. Guided by the crew, the contestants made their way to a wide open field… where two huge transport helicopters were parked and waiting.

Mu Fu blinked in disbelief. Wait… they’re flying us in that?!

She didn’t even know how to skydive! From the panicked faces of the other girls… she wasn’t the only one having second thoughts.

Once all the contestants were aboard the helicopters, the director cleared his throat and made an announcement.

“Alright,” he began, clearing his throat. “Each of you four couples will be dropped in a different location. The male guests will be skydiving with their partners. And don’t worry—we’ll drop your luggage separately at your campsites.”

Mu Fu froze. Wait. Did that mean… she and Wen Shu were jumping out of a helicopter together?

Her hands instantly started to tremble. Sure, she had kind of expected an extreme adventure—but this? Her heart was racing.

They were more than 2,000 meters up in the air. Just peeking out the window made her feel queasy. And now they were going to jump?

The director, catching on to everyone’s expressions, quickly added, “No need to panic. For the entire three days, helicopters will be flying overhead. If there’s any danger at all, trained professionals will intervene immediately. Also, we’ve had cameramen stationed at your drop zones since two days ago. Everything’s ready. You’re covered.”

Wen Shu looked down at Mu Fu and saw the fear on her face. He gently took her hand—it was ice cold. The chill seeped straight into his chest.

“Hey,” he said softly, “Don’t be scared. I’ll be right there with you. If anyone’s going down first, it’s me.”

That made Mu Fu crack a shaky smile. “Stop saying silly things! We’re both going to land just fine.”

“Then trust me, alright? I promise—nothing bad’s going to happen. I’ve got you.”

He could say that with confidence—because it was true. All four male contestants had been professionally trained in skydiving, and Wen Shu was especially good.

He kept holding her hand, trying to transfer some warmth back into her. Mu Fu gave him a small smile—one that said I’ll try. But it was clear she was still scared. Her smile didn’t quite reach her eyes.

Wen Shu’s heart squeezed tight. He wished he could take all her fear away.

After about an hour, a crew member came over and gestured to them. “Mu Fu, Wen Shu—you’re up.”

Mu Fu held on to Wen Shu’s arm tightly as they made their way toward the open door. Her face was pale, and she refused to look down.

Wen Shu carefully checked their parachutes, then wrapped his arms around her in a firm, grounding hug. With the sound of the rotor blades roaring above them, he had to lean in close and shout into her ear: “Mu Fu! Just trust me! I swear—I’ll get us down safe!”

Mu Fu trusted Wen Shu—but no matter how much she told herself that, her body just wouldn’t stop shaking. Her nerves were a mess.

She took a deep breath, trying to calm down. The scent of Wen Shu’s soap drifted into her nose—clean and warm, like home. For a second, it made her feel safe, like she wasn’t floating thousands of meters in the air.

But they couldn’t wait any longer. They had to jump—or they’d delay everyone else.

She shouted, voice trembling, “I trust you! Wen Shu, I trust you!” Then tears spilled down her cheeks—she couldn’t help it. She was scared.

Wen Shu gently ran his hand over her head. Hearing her cry like that tore him up inside. He’d never known what gut-wrenching truly meant until now.

He pressed her face into his chest so she couldn’t see what was coming. After a quick wave to the others, he jumped—with her held tight in his arms.

They free-fell together. Mu Fu buried her face deeper into him, heart pounding. Never again, she told herself. No bungee jumping. Nothing like this. Ever again!

She used to think it would be romantic to do these wild things with someone she loved… but after this? Nope. Not happening.

Thankfully, Wen Shu’s skill was flawless, and they landed smoothly.

Their landing spot was a patch of open grass, soft and flat. The grass came up to Mu Fu’s waist—like short reeds, swaying gently in the breeze.

Wen Shu looked at Mu Fu, who was still clinging tightly to him. “Are you okay? Does anything hurt?” he asked gently, pulling out a tissue to wipe away her tears.

Her eyes were puffy and red. She was still sobbing quietly.

Hearing his voice brought her back. “I… I was scared…” she whispered.

Wen Shu’s expression softened. He lightly stroked her cheek and spoke in a warm voice: “It’s over now. We’re safe. See?” He stomped his foot on the ground. “We’re on solid ground.”

Mu Fu knew she was acting a little spoiled—but with Wen Shu doting on her like this, she couldn’t help it.

“…Mhm,” she nodded, blushing slightly.

Wen Shu laughed quietly. “Feeling better now? If you are, it’s time to move. Where we stay tonight is all up to you.”

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