I'm entirely convinced ZZS was waiting on a kiss here, and WKX chickened out.
Also, wherein WKX takes a trip up the Nile.
Thank you Emma P and Christina H for proofreading!
Notes
1. 上梁不正下梁歪 translate literally. Meaning vices are transmitted hierarchically.
2. 白首如新、倾盖如故 or "some people remain strangers until they grow old, some other become close the second they met". WKX is cheeking back like a brat.
3. 当着和尚骂秃驴 lit. "mock the bald in front of the monk" describe people being openly rude.
4. 相见恨晚 idiom lit. "as I meet you I hate the lateness".
Misc. The exact WKX quote is "幸好，我还没到特别喜欢你" or "Fortunately, I have yet to like you too much". He is talking about romantic feelings. (And is in obvious denial.)
You are really incredibly versed in both Chinese and English literature and amalgamate then into a beautiful work of translation. Thank you so much for your hard work! Priest is an incredibly poetic writer and you reflect that so well in your translations and go above and beyond ♡
Ugh this whole section really kills me - the truths that come out when the three of them are together are always the most brutal
My poor WKX 🥺
Dear translator, you translated this chapter beautifully. Thank you so much 💕
I knew ZZS's condition already, but WKX's reaction is heart-wrenching. Thanks for the translation!