Octopus Boyfriend

Im blind, but my boyfriend, Ben, doesnt seem to want me to regain my sight.

So, without telling him, I secretly had my eyes treated.

The day after I regained my sight, I discovered his secret.

Behind Ben, dark purple tentacles stretched out.

The sticky tentacles cautiously glided along the floor, invisibly wrapping around my ankles.

Then, little by little, they turned pink.

Hes hiding something from me.

I sat in a coffee shop, across from my friend and treating physician, Dr. Sam Riley.

The he I spoke of was my boyfriend, Ben Hastings.

Why do you say that?

I just feel hes been a little strange lately. His business trips are getting more and more frequent.

And it seems like he doesnt want me to regain my sight.

Sam dragged his chair closer, making a scraping sound.

Eliza, I think youre overthinking it. Ben has invested dozens of state-of-the-art equipment in our hospital just to cure your eyes.

When hes not on business trips, he personally picks you up and drops you off for every follow-up appointment.

And our conversations, besides you, are still about you.

Sams praises for Ben were endless.

Who would have thought that three years ago, he regarded Ben as a monstrous threat?

Saying Ben looked like some kind of dark, brooding type, and that he was only with me for money and looks.

But oh, if youre talking about something strange, there actually is one thing

What are you two talking about? A familiar scent of ocean breeze suddenly wafted beside me.

It was Ben.

I finished my coffee and smiled in his direction.

We were talking about when youd arrive.

Have you been waiting long?

Ben adjusted my collar, his cool fingertips brushing against the pulsing vein in my neck as he moved.

I shook my head. I just missed you.

Before Ben could respond, Sam first clicked his tongue, a little sickly sweet.

I feel incredibly radiant right now, so Im out of here.

Dr. Riley, take care. Ive already paid the bill.

Thanks, thanks.

I knew Sams perception of Ben must have become even more favorable.

Although my perception of him was also very favorable.

On the way back, Ben asked,

How were the results of this follow-up?

Hmm not very good.

I was lying.

Its okay, well take our time.

Having dated Ben for three years, I naturally recognized the sound.

As he turned, he quietly let out a sigh of relief.

The next day, while Ben was at work, I dialed Sams number in the bathroom.

This was the only place in the house without surveillance cameras.

What were you trying to say yesterday?

I heard from a nurse that Ben was seen talking with the new Dr. Carter recently.

And both of them didnt look very happy

Dr. Carter?

Sam stammered a little.

Yes, hes a new urologist at our hospital.

But I dont know much about him. Hes always kept to himself and doesnt seem to have many acquaintances.

So I couldnt really ask him

Silence.

A moment later, Sam hesitantly spoke again.

Your boyfriend isnt having it easy either

I hung up the phone, feeling a bit annoyed and ashamed.

After all, I was currently unemployed, stuck at home all day.

I rested well during the day, so naturally, I was energetic at night.

But was Ben entirely blameless?

Who asked him to have such big chest muscles and such nice abs?

It was practically an invitation.

But what did this have to do with my eyes?

Just as I was pondering, Bens call came through.

Did you have breakfast yet?

Whenever I was home alone, if I spent more than five minutes in the bathroom, he would subtly ask what I was doing.

I feigned a yawn.

Yeah, just woke up, Im about to eat. What about you, what are you doing?

Just finished a meeting, have another one soon.

So busy, tonight I

Remembering my conversation with Sam earlier, I swallowed the words Ill treat you well.

Tonight what?

Tonight, lets have a nice dinner.

Before Ben could reply, I faintly heard his assistants voice from his end of the phone.

Alright, thats enough. Go to your meeting.

In the evening, I habitually slipped my hand under Bens shirt to warm up.

Less than two seconds later, I pulled my hand back.

Sweetheart?

Bens voice held a touch of confusion. He grabbed my hand and pressed it against his abs again.

I squeezed.

Felt so good.

Then I pulled my hand back again.

If I could see right now, I would notice Ben pouting, looking on the verge of tears.

Sensing the deep sense of hurt emanating from Ben, I fumbled and pressed a heavy kiss on his face.

Im a little tired. Lets talk tomorrow, okay?

Okay

Ben didnt press further, just adjusted his position to make me more comfortable.

In my dream, I was in a damp rainforest, entangled by countless giant pythons.

My calves twitched uncontrollably.

The snakes tongue glided across my skin, making a soft, sighing sound.

Waking up the next day, I carefully touched my limbs and waist. They were clean, without a single mark.

But was it really just a dream?

Sweetheart, I need to go on a business trip. Ill be back in three days.

Okay.

In just half a month, Ben had already been on four business trips.

Noticing that I seemed a little down, Ben rested his head on my lap, his arm circling my waist.

Im sorry, sweetheart. That project has been really busy lately

Once its over, how about we go on a trip together?

Is there anywhere youd like to go?

I thought of last nights dream, but a different answer slipped out:

The beach.

The beach? Bens arm tightened.

Yeah, you know, I used to love diving.

So I want to smell the sea breeze again sometime.

Alright, the beach it is.

While Ben was away on his business trip, I went to the hospital again.

Youre looking a bit too refreshed, arent you?

Sam clicked his tongue lightly.

I answered expressionlessly, Im sexually frustrated.

Sam cleared his throat, clearly not wanting to continue that topic.

However, all your indicators in todays check-up are excellent. Congratulations.

Thank you.

Arent you excited? Youll be able to see soon.

Very excited.

Boring. But I actually thought youd want Ben to be with you on such a crucial day.

I couldnt help but rub the corner of my sweater.

I still feel he doesnt really want me to regain my sight. So please keep it a secret for now.

The world after regaining my sight was somewhat magical.

Countless colors vibrated endlessly, and amidst the chaos, gradually connected with the concepts in my mind.

Like a puzzle piece, finally falling into its long-awaited empty spot at a certain moment.

Hey, can you see?

Sams face enlarged in my vision.

To be honest, it was a bit distracting.

Why wasnt it Ben?

Yes.

Thats great!

I smiled genuinely. Thank you for your hard work these past four years.

Oh, were friends. Just treat me to a big meal sometime.

I want to walk around by myself.

Sam gave an understanding smile. I get it.

I picked up the white cane beside me, let go, but then gripped it again.

I tentatively took a step, experiencing the moment my shoe sole touched the ground with my eyes.

One step, two steps.

Drip.

I turned my head and looked out the window.

It was raining.

Ben and I first met on a rainy day.

That day, I suddenly wanted to walk in the rain, so I only brought my white cane.

But after walking a short distance, my path was blocked by an electric scooter parked on the tactile paving.

Rain hammered around me, and my white cane felt like an oar floating on water, leaving me disoriented.

A vast emptiness enveloped me, leaving me adrift.

Strangely, I even felt an urge to throw away my white cane.

But suddenly, the rain stopped around me.

An umbrella shielded my head, followed by a faint scent of ocean breeze.

Hello, um, do you need help?

The mans voice was deep and magnetic, but his hesitant, stumbling speech made him sound awkwardly charming.

Judging by his voice, he was probably about ten centimeters taller than me.

I turned my head, slightly lifting my face, deliberately tilting my rain-drenched face towards him.

The mans breathing softened even more.

Yes, could you could you take me home?

If youre a bad guy, could you take me to your home?

Lock me up.

Or bury me.

But he wasnt.

Alright, um, forgive my intrusion.

He merely carefully circled my forearm with his cool hand, guiding my way.

I could feel the glances that occasionally fell on me.

Somewhat warm, yet not intrusive.

Here we are.

I stood at the door, tilting my head.

Would you like to come in for a bit?

Would it be?

Im alone at home, and Im a little scared.

Even though I hadnt eaten pork, I had seen many pigs run.

In less than fifteen minutes, I had extracted most of Bens personal information.

So we live so close to each other, huh?

Then, if you have time later, would you mind coming over to keep me company?

I changed into a silk nightgown, curled up on the sofa, and asked him.

Alright, yes.

From seeing each other once every half week, it gradually evolved into twice a day.

Bens methods for pursuing me werent sophisticated, but they were heartfelt.

Like a loyal dog, hed offer me everything he thought was best.

Are you Eliza Shen?

Unknowingly, I had walked to the entrance of the Urology Department.

The man opposite me was taller than I was, wearing a white lab coat, and I couldnt clearly read the name on his badge.

He wore rimless glasses, and his long hair was tied back.

Hello? I still pretended to be blind.

My name is Noah Carter. Im Ben Hastingss, uh friend.

It seemed he was the Dr. Carter.

Seeing my confused look, Noah understood.

Im a doctor here, just started working at this hospital recently.

Ben and I were neighbors when we were kids, but we werent very close.

So its normal that he hasnt mentioned me to you.

Neighbor.

I chewed on those two words in my mind several times.

Hmm what was Ben like when he was little?

Noah opened his mouth, seeming to ponder his choice of words.

We stopped at the hospital entrance.

He finally answered my question.

My personal advice keep your distance from him.

What are you doing?

I was suddenly pulled into Bens embrace.

He was still warm, having just gotten out of his car.

Noah shrugged.

I only told Ms. Shen what I needed to tell her.

And I also advise you to agree to our terms as soon as possible.

Otherwise, more than just you will suffer.

After Noah left, I asked Ben,

Ben, what are you doing here?

Came back early. Saw no one at home, thought you must be at the hospital.

Did Noah say anything strange to you just now?

No. He just started speaking when you arrived.

Seeing Bens furrowed brow because of Noah, I felt a little annoyed.

I raised my hand and wrapped it around Bens waist.

Did you miss me?

Bens previously serious expression immediately softened. He gently rubbed his nose against my forehead.

Very, very much.

When I woke up the next day, Ben had already gone to work.

I rolled over, snuggled into his side of the bed, and turned on the surveillance footage.

Although Ben hadnt installed cameras in the bathroom, I had.

I dragged the timeline to the moment he entered the bathroom.

Ben, freshly awake, had slightly messy hair, his mature features looking a bit boyish.

I watched him silently, with my headphones on, as he washed up and spaced out.

At 6 minutes and 27 seconds, I saw what I wanted to see.

A dark purple tentacle emerged from behind Ben, reaching for the bathroom door.

Ben met the tentacles gaze in the mirror, his eyes filled with warning.

The tentacle then timidly retreated, leaving behind a noticeable wet stain.

Ben sighed in resignation, and began to wipe away the traces it left behind.

I repeatedly dragged the progress bar.

Watching it over and over.

It wasnt until my newly restored eyes began to shed physiological tears that I reluctantly turned off my phone.

So this was Bens secret.

So when Ben came home from work, I was already sitting on the sofa waiting.

While Ben stood in the entryway, bending down to change his slippers, my eyes greedily traced him from top to bottom.

Face. Back. Waist. Hips. Legs.

If I ignored the tentacles that were already joyfully rolling around in front of me.

Unlike the initial dark purple, the tentacles before me were now pink.

Was it because they were happy to see me?

How cute.

By the way, Ben, I want to take a medicinal bath today.

Why the sudden urge for a medicinal bath?

Ben approached, kneeling before me, looking up into my eyes.

As he drew closer, the tentacles behind him gradually retracted.

I lowered my eyes with a hint of regret.

Sweetheart?

Bens tone was filled with concern.

After all, I usually took a medicinal bath once a month, but I had just taken one two weeks ago.

I just want to relax a bit, okay?

Ben, his ears turning red, agreed. Okay.

He walked into the kitchen and brought out a glass of milk.

Drink your milk first. Ill go run the hot water.

I nodded, taking a small sip of milk in front of him.

Then, as he entered the bathroom, I poured the remaining milk into the potted plant beside me.

Before long, Ben carried me into the bathtub.

He tied a black silk ribbon over my eyes, covering my sight.

He said it was to prevent the steaming heat of the medicinal bath from getting into my eyes.

Soak for a while first. Ill gradually add the medicine.

Mhm.

After a while, a familiar drowsiness crept in.

I pretended to lose my strength, letting my entire weight press against Ben.

At the same time, I used the movement to loosen the silk ribbon over my eyes.

Sweetheart? Eliza?

I didnt respond.

In the shadowy darkness, water was already overflowing.

But I could no longer see below my waist.

Pink tentacles crowded the bathtub, writhing continuously.

So this was the medicinal bath?

I slowly sank lower into the water, but a strong pair of hands supported my waist.

A soft kiss and a whisper fell beside my ear.

Eliza, I love you.