Loneliness

• Author: Biscuits Bought In September
• Genres: Đam Mỹ, Tình Cảm, Đời Thường, Tâm Lý
• Status: Completed
• Chapters: 27
• Rating: ★ 4.3 / 5
• Published: 2026-09-29

Quiet Lives in the City

The story introduces a unique co-living arrangement between two former classmates in a modern city. Clocking in at just 27 chapters, it still packs enough emotional punch to leave readers deeply moved by isolation.

Instead of kicking off with drama or chaos, this relationship unfolds quietly through everyday routines. The author skillfully crafts a subdued and thoughtful atmosphere right from the opening pages.

The first half focuses on exploring the gray inner world of the protagonist. It's a deep dive into the silent pain and endurance of a heart that has loved for a very long time.

Portrait of a Ten-Year Dreamer

Cheng Dong Lan comes across as a heartbreaking character due to his insecurity and reserved nature. He struggles to express his emotions and often finds himself clueless about ordinary social nuances.

His charm lies in his gentle soul, but beneath the surface lies a fierce battle with depression. This isn't just a passing blue mood, but rather the heavy toll of a neglected childhood devoid of warmth.

He has nurtured an unrequited love for over a decade without ever letting a single trace slip. That stubborn persistence serves as both a comfort and a shackle, locking him away in his own world.

The Ice of a Busy lawyer

In sharp contrast to his sensitive roommate, Yuan Yuan is a textbook modern lawyer with a pragmatic lifestyle. He always exudes an emotional detachment and seems to treat work as his sole refuge.

He cuts the figure of a successful man completely disconnected from those around him. His workaholism isn't just a ladder for career advancement, but a way to escape the hollow spaces inside.

Despite his normal exterior, his life is boxed in by endless rules and relentless busyness. Only when he accidentally stumbles upon his housemate's secret do his emotional barriers begin to crack.

Family psychological Ghosts

One of the most agonizing parts of the novel is how the author portrays parental neglect toward both leads. Cheng Dong Lan's parents come off as utterly despicable, remaining completely indifferent to their child's existence.

This exact void leaves massive psychological scars, making it hard for either of them to connect with the world. They are essentially kids who were never taught how to properly love or be loved by their own family.

The feeling of loneliness doesn't just stem from being alone; it saturates the way they face their past. Scars from a lifetime of neglect have shaped their warped and distant adult personalities.

A Warm and Sweet Turnaround

Although it starts out in dark tones, the second half brings a surprisingly pleasant shift. Once Cheng Dong Lan's secret feelings come to light, the plot takes a sweet and hopeful turn.

The shift in dynamics between a secret admirer and a typically aloof guy happens very naturally. Small, caring gestures start creeping into their shared life, melting the ice around their hearts.

The healing process doesn't happen overnight, but having the other person there becomes the ultimate remedy. Love here isn't about possession, but mutual empathy between two souls far too familiar with pain.

Key Highlights

• A concise plot that leaves a lingering aftertaste thanks to a deep dive into psychological aspects.
• A realistic portrayal of depression and the lingering aches of familial neglect.
• An interesting dynamic between a rational lawyer and an introverted, shy soul.
• A slow pace that helps readers empathize with every ounce of the characters' pain and sweetness.
• A deeply healing ending that balances out the gloomy start.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The slow early pacing might bore readers who prefer high stakes and drama.
• Some family dynamics can be infuriating due to the sheer cruelty of the parents.
• Because it's short, certain aspects of Yuan Yuan's lawyer career aren't fully fleshed out.

Community Ratings

• Novel Updates: 4.4/5.0 (396 votes, checked 29/09/2026). Readers praise the emotional nuance and the deep sympathy evoked for the shou character.
• Goodreads: 3.64/5.0 (136 votes, checked 29/09/2026). Some note it leans a bit sad, but the payoff at the end is worth the wait.

Conclusion

This is a gentle yet emotionally heavy danmei piece, perfect for anyone looking for a soul-healing read. Though short, the journey of overcoming loneliness for these two characters will definitely stick with you.

Bottom line: A short yet punchy tale of love and redemption, made for anyone who has ever felt lost in this world.

Tags: unrequited love, healing, depression