Category: Forced into the Deep (Page 2 of 9)

Chapter 25 – Counterattack

 

Xing Zhongwan wore a suit when he joined Aisha’s business group the next day. Aisha was a little nervous, but there were no other major problems. She was not too surprised to see Xing Zhongwan, and the two entered the small conference room from the side.

 

As soon as they entered the door, Aisha suddenly breathed a sigh of relief and her rigid little shoulders finally relaxed, “Wan, I feel so relieved after seeing you. When Xue had an accident, I almost thought my uncle was responsible for the accident. But when I think about it, it’s impossible. He doesn’t have the ability to nor the courage. The situation here is very complicated. You can take Xue back, I can do this alone.”

 

Xing Zhongwan took out a strawberry candy from his pocket and peeled off the candy wrapper before stuffing it into Aisha’s mouth. Aisha stared at him blankly and ate the pink candy in her mouth, “Every time I’m unhappy, you always use this to coax me.”

 

“They are targeting me. Aisha, don’t worry about anything else. Just do a good job with this joint-venture case and then go back to Country X. I will oversee the whole process. Remember that you are the first in line to the throne. In the future, I will still be in your light, up-and-coming Your Majesty.” 

 

Aisha somewhat understood why Xing Zhongwan refused to follow her back in the first place and it was still the same now.

 

“I really don’t need to do anything?” Aisha wanted to confirm it one last time. Above all else, Xing Zhongwan was her indispensable supporter and ally.

 

Xing Zhongwan tidied up the cufflinks on his shirt and said with a smile, “What you have to do is to discuss this joint-venture and return to Country X safely. I also have things I should do.”

 

At the afternoon meeting, Xing Zhongwan followed up with the key group members under Aisha. The other group representatives of country X were somewhat surprised as Xing Zhongwan never participated in this kind of trip, but when they thought of Xue Qing’s car accident, these old coots kept silent. The tricks happening behind-the-scenes here had nothing to do with them. They fell in line in order to seek development opportunities to make money and did not gossip about personal grievances. However, the domestic follow-up group was different. The media-person in charge of covering news about X country’s royal family has only heard about him scarcely and most of them are seeing him for the first time. They are surprised at his youth and his appearance. Some who were from the same generation as Xing Yanyin’s described his looks to be almost similarly wonderful.

 

But the one who was the most surprised and excited was Shen Congxin.

 

That’s right, poor, young comrade Shen was pushed out again to represent the group in participating in this boring and complicated meeting. He was so sleepy that he yawned but ran up to Xing Zhongwan as soon as he saw him.

 

Xing Zhongwan, who was sitting next to Aisha, smiled at Shen Congxin, causing young comrade Shen’s face to flush red. This was the first time he saw his cousin-in-law in a suit. It was so scary. What was this look of a forbidden beauty? Shen Congxin resisted the urge to tip off his cousin. At the dinner party in the evening, he finally found a chance to speak with Xing Zhongwan.

 

Xing Zhongwan smiled and sent away a person who clearly wanted to discuss a joint-venture with him while secretly wanting to inquire about his relationship with Xing Yanyin. Xing Zhongwan vaguely remembered that this man was an old friend of his grandfather. He was secretly complaining and adding up the amount of times the old man had laughed with crow’s feet in his eyes in this one night, and it was almost more times than a normal person would laugh in an entire week.

 

Shen Congxin brought a wine glass over and the two clinked their glasses. Shen Congxin asked excitedly, “Is Sister Xue Qing okay?”

 

Xing Zhongwan swirled his glass, “What else could happen to her? She just broke one leg and two ribs…”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s long drawl made Shen Congxin a little horrified.

 

“Go back and tell your cousin that since I’m staying here, I have a plan. I, Xing Zhongwan, am not soft. Xue Qing’s accident will not be in vain. I have thought it out, so tell him not to find someone to follow me around.” Xing Zhongwan thought for a while and added, “It’s not that I don’t like it. I know that he has good intentions to protect me, but I can’t have any link with him in the current situation, or at least I can’t be caught with him. Since I am here, it will be easy to find some evidence of our connection.”

 

Shen Congxin nodded, “Brother Zhongwan, then you have to be more careful from now on. But haven’t you withdrawn all your secret connections in the country?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took a sip of champagne as he raised his long and narrow eyebrows, “You are too honest. What will you do in the future?! You cannot believe the words of businesspeople. Their words do not hold the same weight as your own. They may mention seven things but leave out three points. You still have so much to learn. Anyway, tell Qi Yun this, even if he will do whatever he wants. Don’t worry about me. During this time, I have to stay and help Aisha restore some order. I also have some countermeasures back in country X, he will understand.”

 

Shen Congxin had agreed before Xing Zhongwan behind around him with a glass of wine. When Shen Congxin looked back, Xing Zhongwan had already started chatting and laughing with the others. After the reception was over, Xing Zhongwan escorted Aisha to the car and was about to go back when he caught a glimpse of a familiar black car parked on the opposite road. Xing Zhongwan paused for a moment while holding the door. He then smiled in that direction, and then bent over and got into his car

 

As the convoy left, Qi Yun instructed the driver to drive. Shen Congxin sat in the passenger seat and turned around, clasping the back of the seat with both hands, “Big cousin, you could have asked the Foreign Affairs Office not to allow Zhongwan Bro back into the country.”

 

Qi Yun replied indifferently, “No, he would’ve come back sooner or later. Xue Qing’s status is different from him but they will definitely come back. I was careless this time and didn’t expect them to take action against Xue Qing instead.”

 

“Then we are really not going to follow him?” Won’t we need to find someone powerful to protect cousin-in-law?” Shen Congxin was still a little worried. No matter how powerful his cousin is, this was not country X.

 

Qi Yun remembered Xing Zhongwan’s smile just now and raised his right hand to his heart, “Don’t underestimate him, there is far more to him than meets the eye.”

 

The moment he knew about Xue Qing’s accident, Qi Yun knew that Xing Zhongwan wouldn’t just let it go. Wanwan has always been protective of his loved ones. He will not be tolerant towards anyone when it comes to those he cares about, like his relatives and friends. If anyone hurts them, he will be relentless. Getting involved and tormenting the other party to the end. If anyone can solve this head-on, it is Xing Zhongwan.

 

Qi Yun sighed, feeling helpless and remorseful. Their problems have started implicating the other innocent people in their lives. Wanwan…

 

Thinking of that look just now, Qi Yun couldn’t help but smile. He was like an irritated leopard full of anger, but the smile as though saying “it’s alright” was enough to calm Qi Yun down.

 

Taking a deep breath, Qi Yun pressed down the fluctuations in his heart. The plan will advance after all.

 

Xing Zhongwan went to the hospital later that night. At this time, Xue Qing was lying on the bed nibbling on chicken legs like she wasn’t a woman with two broken ribs while working on the computer. Xing Zhongwan took away her computer with a sullen face and pointed at her oily mouth, “Just rest after eating, okay? Don’t die.”

 

Xue Qing carelessly wiped her oily mouth, “Since you want to go ahead with that, I’ll do it even if I’m half-dead. If you want to stop me, you must kill me directly. After I was taken out of the orphanage by your mother, I haven’t been treated well by anyone. Since I don’t have any scruples, what else do I have to worry about? I have enough to eat, so I better work hard.”

 

Xing Zhongwan disgustedly went to the bathroom to get her a clean towel and handed it to her so she could wipe her hands, “You should rest. Be careful now that your ribs are crooked, how will you eat up young fresh guys in the future.”

 

Xue Qing just winked and tossed the towel away, “Have you come up with a solution after hearing that?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took off his tie and unbuttoned his shirt before putting his hands on the bed and winking at her, “What do you think?”

 

Xue Qing sighed, “Just accompany Aisha with her business group to show your identity. Flaunt your status and make sure they know who you really are. Don’t let them think they can play around courageously, and show them that you’re confident and playful with those bright eyes. No one would believe that you and Qi Yun are involved. Qi Yun is too calculative and getting involved with you would be self-destructive. To deal with these people, you must have convincing evidence to start with. It’s unlikely they have people who knew you five years ago, but if they do, then this period of time is very critical. Five years ago, you and Qi Yun had an intersection. Because of this, it’s important that we disclose the origin of the Qi and Xing family. We have to show that it is normal for you to take care of Qi Yun. The most important thing is that you and Qi Yun can’t be caught in the slightest during this time, otherwise it will be troublesome to contact him back and forth to get both your stories straight. “

 

The corner of Xing Zhongwan’s mouth twitched, but there was no smile in his eyes, “Then how about we find each other’s flaws before that?”

 

Xue Qing was stunned for a moment, then snapped her fingers, “Understood, it is better to strike first if you have found the entry point.”

 

She shifted to Xing Zhongwan’s side on her painful ribs, “Seriously, how much of your fighting is for me?”

 

Xing Zhongwan said something perfunctory, picked up the coat beside the sofa and prepared to leave.

 

Xue Qing said with a bitter face, “Just lie to me, it will be enough to placate me.”

 

Xing Zhongwan turned around and pointed to her injured leg, “Take care of that and don’t think about anything else.” He closed the door before Xue Qing could complain.

 

He took out his mobile phone and dialed a number. The call was quickly connected.

 

“Sister Ming, do you have time for a cup of tea tomorrow?”

 

 

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T/N: 9th chapter till the end!!

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Chapter 24 – Entering the Urn

 

Xing Zhongwan returned to Country X just in time for the royal family’s year-end banquet. As a member of the royal family who is 180th place in line for the throne, he was often sought after not for his identity, but his wealth.

 

His energy had long depleted after being forced to pretend to laugh since his arrival while also dealing with the complicated banquet process. He finally got some free time and loosened his tie. He was sitting in a lounge to have a cigarette when he was caught by Aisha.

 

“Wan, I finally found you, I didn’t have a chance to talk to you today.”

 

Aisha smiled and sat beside him, wanting to light a cigarette for him. Xing Zhongwan withdrew his fingers and calmly avoided it, “Speaking of business, it’s not good for you to smile like this.”

 

Aisha pointed out darkly, “Guess what those people outside are thinking? My grandfather is already in poor health, they are wondering if there will be a queen next?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took out a lighter and lit a cigarette, “What do you want me to help you with?”

 

Aisha folded her arms and opened her eyes wide, “I know that you are the smartest Wan. I need an opportunity and my break would be at the joint railway infrastructure project between two countries.”

 

Xing Zhongwan put out the cigarette in his hand in the ashtray, “I can’t help you with this project. I don’t plan to go back to China anymore, you can find someone else to help you.”

 

Aisha didn’t expect Xing Zhongwan to refuse so bluntly, “Wan, I know you and President Qi know each other. He is still the head of the Shen family, so if he can help, then…”

 

Xing Zhongwan suddenly stood up with a serious expression, “Aisha, I can’t help you with this matter. As long as the project is viable, it can be negotiated without pulling these sorts of strings. And I am done with Qi Yun. Whether you are in country X or going to be visiting with a business group soon, you can’t talk to anyone about our relationship.”

 

Aisha rarely saw Xing Zhongwan so solemn after so many years with him. When it comes to them working together, Xing Zhongwan’s attitude has always been soft and he will always show her courtesy due to her status as a royal princess, but this time…

 

It’s a pity for Aisha. After all, as long as the railway infrastructure is partnered up with the Shen family and solidified by the relationship with Qi Yun, there will be no difficulty.

 

“I understand, Wan. Since you don’t want it, I won’t force it. I believe I can negotiate with my own strength.”

 

Xing Zhongwan walked over and hugged the petite woman. Aisha laughed, “You don’t need to worry about me. But I’m really curious about you and President Qi. Do you really both have nothing to do with each other, as you said? I’m just being gossipy, but I can see that he likes you very much.”

 

Xing Zhongwan tidied up his loose tie and smiled at Aisha, “You think too much, my little aunt.”

 

Aisha shrugged, “It’s a pity, you are both a good match for one another.”

 

Xing Zhongwan came home from the banquet dazed. He thought about going to bed early to rest but couldn’t sleep, so he just sat in the yard with some wine while enjoying the breeze. Sitting alone quietly would make anyone feel lonely, so he simply let the housekeeper turn on the water fountains but it was awkward to watch the fountains alone as he drank wine while the cold breeze blew.

 

It’s been a while since he returned to Country X. Even if he didn’t pay attention to news about Qi Yun, the wind still carried some news to his ears. No. 3 and No. 4 supported and really liked Qi Yun, so when he was busy, they always put some updates regarding Qi Yun on his desk. Xing Zhongwan did not inhibit their behavior, but read each one carefully. As he thought, once he returned to Country X, Qi Yun didn’t have anyone holding him back to start his counterattack. However, in Xing Zhongwan’s opinion, Qi Yun was always riding a sinking boat, so he was still a little worried.

 

Rubbing his aching forehead, the sound of the water fountain couldn’t calm him down so he tipped his head back and drank down a glass of red wine. Xing Zhongwan had some ideas when he heard Aisha’s proposal, but the thought only flashed in his mind for a second. If he follows the business group, he will inevitably run into Qi Yun. The general election is less than a month away. If something goes wrong at this time…

 

Xing Zhongwan roughly set the cup down on the small table beside him. He got up and the old housekeeper behind him dr4p3d on a thick night robe around him, Xing Zhongwan slowly paced around the huge fountain. There were no stars in the skies of X country. Xing Zhongwan raised his neck and his eyes were dark. Qi Yun, are you also looking at the same night sky as me?

 

Qi Yun looked at the photo in his hand. It  was the only family portrait of Xing Zhongwan, and it was when he was still a baby. He was still reluctant to return this photo and secretly kept it. When there was a knock on the door, Qi Yun put the photo back into his coat, “Come in.” 

 

The doctor walked up to him and sighed, “She’s been retrieved. Do you want to meet her? After all, she’s your biological mother.”

 

Qi Yun was indifferent. He stared at the door of the emergency room not far away, “I’m afraid she doesn’t want to see me. She can’t wait to bite me to death now.”

 

“I’m not advising you, but there are already so many rumors outside the election. No accidents can occur to her for now, think for yourself.” 

 

The doctor pushed open the door and went out. Qi Yun suddenly remembered the phone call he received early this morning from the hospital before he rushed over to Guan Yang’s room which had blood all over the floor. There was a hint of mockery in Qi Yun’s eyes, so she couldn’t bear to continue living anymore? Mother, you disappoint me so much.

 

Qi Yun stood by the hospital bed and looked at Guan Yang, “Can’t you hold on a little longer? I want you to live to see me stand in that position. I want to share a milestone much worthy of celebration with you.”

 

Guan Yang was indifferent. She turned her haggard face, “Qi Yun, you are so cruel. You still think you deserve to be called my son?”

 

Qi Yun’s leg hurt a little so he sat on the side of Guan Yang’s bed and smiled, “I remember my dearest mother hated my smile the most. You mentioned that my smile was like the Shen family’s.” Qi Yun slowly approached Guan Yang and said in her ear, “Though I think I’m the most like you.You’ve always wanted to get rid of me time and time again, but it hurts very much to have knives stabbing my body, mother. I have never been a good-tempered person, so I can’t help but to return your kindness and let you live as well as me. I only have a problem with those from the Guan family… is being obedient not amicable? Why do you want to gather them as my obstacles? Don’t worry, their days are numbered and they won’t have to feel lonely for long. They will get used to being stabbed sooner or later. Maybe when I’m tired of playing with them, I’ll collect some dirt to relieve them of these games.”

 

Guan Yang stared into his eyes and almost shed bloody tears, “Qi Yun, you are not human!”

 

Qi Yun stood up, took off his coat and then his shirt until his upper body was bare. His thin and fair chest was filled with staggered scars.

 

Pointing to the scar in the middle that almost split his chest into two, “Mother, remember this? That car accident, your kind son, otherwise known as my own benevolent brother, caused it himself. I almost died on the operating table after two open-heart surgeries.”

 

His finger moved down towards a wound that was still very new, “I almost never woke up again because of this knife. This is what my generous grandfather, you, the Guan family behind you, and the countless people who wanted Qi Yun dead did.”

 

Qi Yun took his shirt and slowly put it back on, “You are the least qualified to say that. I don’t deserve to be a human being? Then what about you?”

 

Guan Yang’s face was ashen. She was paralyzed on the hospital bed, deflated. Qi Yun’s scars all over his body made her eyes widen.

 

Qi Yun turned around slowly, “If you want the Guan family in prison to suffer less, stop doing stupid things. Do not assume that I don’t know about your secret connections. You know what my bottom line is.”

 

In country X, Xing Zhongwan opened his eyes abruptly. He raised his hand to wipe the sweat from his forehead, took a deep breath and slowly sat up from the bed.

 

The phone by his bedside suddenly rang and Xing Zhongwan picked it up. He got up, suddenly frowned and jumped out of bed quickly. Three days ago, Aisha left with a business group from country X and Xue Qing went with her on behalf of the group. Before leaving, Xue Qing joked that if she ran into Qi Yun, she would shun him. Xing Zhongwan didn’t expect to receive the news of her car accident just three days later.

 

When Xing Zhongwan got on the plane, his whole body was cold and his palms were sweating. Cheng Zhengzhe was still on a business trip in another country, Xing Zhongwan didn’t dare tell him and just took No. 3 and No. 4 on a private plane while submitting a private flight route application to country X’s foreign affairs office. He didn’t even discuss it with Aisha. Xing Zhongwan leaned on the back of the plane seat with his eyes closed and never spoke on the flight.

 

No. 3 poured a glass of warm water for him but Xing Zhongwan pushed it away and fell into contemplation.

 

Qi Yun received a call from the foreign affairs office in the afternoon and was a little surprised when he received the news that Country X applied for diplomatic assistance and a private flight route. This was not like Wanwan’s behavior and something must have happened. Sure enough, that was when the news of Xue Qing’s car accident immediately reached his ears.

 

After all, the situation was no simple matter.

 

On the day Xing Zhongwan flew back to China, he had contacted Aisha as soon as he got off the plane. He then rushed to the hospital to see Xue Qing.

 

Xing Zhongwan looked at Xue Qing who had a cast on one leg and many scratches on her face, his tense body finally relaxing a little, “Fortunately, you weren’t permanently disfigured.”

 

Xing Zhongwan walked to Xue Qing’s side, squatted down and took her into his arms. Xue Qing patted his back, “You shouldn’t have come, Laoxing.”

 

Xing Zhongwan let go of her and looked at her carefully again, “If it was me who was lying on the bed now, would you and Laocheng leave me alone?”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s eyes were firm, and the dark blue in his eyes showed that he was alright with the physical fatigue. Instead, the torment to his heart was the most painful.

 

“Laoxing, listen to me. Our entire delegation was involved in a car accident and the official news had announced it as an accident. But it was very obvious who the target of the car that hit us was. I could see that it clearly drove out of its way to come in our direction. I’m a native of country X, and have no enemies in China, so why did they want to kill me? The target was not me, but you! This person wanted to draw you back into the country. You know better than me why they’re doing this.”

 

Xing Zhongwan looked solemn as Xue Qing straightened her body, “Laoxing, the general election is close and everyone’s fighting chaotically. When Qi Yun makes a move, he never leaves anyone any leeway from the start. Now, many people hate him and want to kill him, but he is too stringent about his work, so it is impossible to leak anything about him. Due to this, they are all staring at you now. You must go back immediately before you get pulled into the crossfire.”

 

Xing Zhongwan got up and took a few steps around the ward. His eyes narrowed slightly as his fists clenched into the pockets of his jacket. He pressed his lips tightly together. Xue Qing endured the pain, “Laoxing, what do you think?”

 

Xing Zhongwan stopped and looked at her, “I had a dream on the day you had an accident. I dreamed that Qi Yun died and he was full of bloody holes.”

 

Xue Qing opened her mouth. She was speechless for a long time.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s forehead tensed up and his snow-white skin was now full of blue veins, “I’ve never had such a dream, but I know it’s not a good sign.”

 

Xue Qing understood and she exhaled, “I respect your decision.”

 

Xing Zhongwan stared at the glass window of the ward. He always felt that something would happen to Qi Yun at this time. He was in a hurry to come back because of Xue Qing and because of that dream.

 

If there is something that he must face, then bring it on. Since he can’t avoid it and will be dragged into this game, he is not afraid. He left this country so he would not become a bargaining chip for others to threaten Qi Yun, but Xing Zhongwan couldn’t bear it if his friends were hurt by those who were trying to lure him back to China.

 

Five years ago I was able to protect Qi Yun, and I can do it five years later too, so let’s wait and see.

 

He stretched out his hand and drew a circle on the misted glass window. That dream, it absolutely cannot come true.

 

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T/N: Yes! Exactly 10 chapters to go~ The end is neigh!! While waiting for future updates, why not pick a new novel to read? I suggest Perfection and Revenge of the Garfield, translated by our Moechi. Otherwise, if you’re into smut, I suggest the ‘Princess; and the dragon. Law of Love is great, though it’s translation is still ongoing at the moment.

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Chapter 23 – This life is still long

 

The Supervision Committee’s inspection of the Shen family lasted three days. After three days, a group of people were kicked out of the Shen family in order to settle the small problems. In principle, it was not enough to solve the bigger problems, but with this, the Shen family would only have to pay a hefty fine.

 

After the inspection team left, vice president Chen finally breathed a sigh of relief and made a phone call to express his gratitude to Xing Zhongwan.

 

After Xing Zhongwan hung up the phone, he looked up at the indifferent man on the news and frowned. Qi Yun’s physical condition was reported to him regularly by Xue Qing. His injury has not healed but Qi Yun remained very headstrong about what he wanted to do. No one could persuade him to stay, and he couldn’t stop because of the current situation. The Supervision Committee’s investigation of the Shen family was settled very easily as they weren’t able to find a big problem, so the next problem now was Qi Yun’s safety.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s expression was not good. He has not slept well for the past few days under the tension and high pressure. Looking at the calendar on the desk, it was about time for him to return to Country X…

 

Qi Yun was in the living room changing his bandage dressings, as well as the cotton swabs on his wounds and couldn’t help but frown. When Shen Congxin came in, Qi Yun was putting on his coat and preparing to go out. He stepped forward to help him, “Let’s rest a little longer. There will be a press conference later and a memorial service along with a funeral tomorrow morning. Your injury…”

 

Qi Yun buttoned his coat and smoothed the wrinkles on his sleeves, “You don’t need to go to the memorial service tomorrow.”

 

Shen Congxin nodded obediently, “Big cousin, I think Gao Qiao is right. You really should go to the temple. Let’s walk around, this year has been too bad on you.”

 

Qi Yun was a little confused, “Gao Qiao?”

 

Shen Congxin said, “Yeah, I met him in the company yesterday. Didn’t their family cooperate with the Shen’s? He came to talk about a temple in the south of the Yangtze River that is very spiritual and asked me to take you for a walk.”

 

Qi Yun was stunned for a while. The corner of his mouth twitched and curled up. Shen Congxin wondered if there was anything funny. Why was his big cousin so happy when he, himself was about to die of worry?

 

“Please thank Gao Qiao for his kindness. I will definitely go over there to exorcise my bad luck.”

 

At Qi Zongcheng’s memorial service, Qi Yun sat in the next-of-kin seat and looked at the huge portrait in front of him. Was it sad that his relative just passed away after leaving so disgracefully, being pissed off to death? It’s just pathetic! In the last few years, he had witnessed Qi Yun’s hardships, but he didn’t forget to leave his only grandson in hell. Grandfather, you didn’t even want to leave me a chance to be a good person.

 

Qi Yun coldly watched people go up to pay their respects and offer flowers, but his thoughts had long since been empty. The string of Buddha beads in his hand were cold. He took off the beads on his wrist. He has never been willing to take it off for five years, but now he was no longer qualified to wear it. Qi Yun’s hands were destined to be covered with blood and he couldn’t afford to hold these beads with his heart still stuck in the past.

 

Qi Yun took Qi Zongcheng’s urn to Jiangnan the next day. Qi Zongcheng’s hometown was in the south of the Yangtze River, so the urn will naturally be brought back to his homeland. It is impossible to verify whether Qi Zongcheng had this wish before his death, but Qi Yun just used this as a guise to return to Jiangnan because there was someone he wanted to see.

 

Qi Yun’s secretary was seriously injured and still recuperating in the hospital. With only Shen Congxin by his side, the volunteers and teachers in the temple were all familiar with him. It was a place where all living beings were equal, and everyone had equal rights and positions did not matter.

 

Qi Yun lit some incense, knelt on the cushion and kowtowed respectfully. The wound on his abdomen has still not healed, but he didn’t care even if the movement aggravated his wound. It was winter in Jiangnan and it was raining. The joints of his legs, which were injured in his early years, were swollen again. This kind of wet and cold weather was terrible for Qi Yun. When he knelt down, the pain was so severe that he lost the strength to even get up. Shen Congxin rushed over to help him but Qi Yun stopped him and stood up little by little with his hands on the ground. The pain from the friction on his joints made his back soak up with sweat. He stood up straight, his back upright as if nothing happened. The volunteer passed him a lamp. Qi Yun took the brush and paused for a while before then writing three words. The volunteer asked him if he wanted to send the lamp to the shelves at the back as usual but Qi Yun refused, “Please help me get it back.” 

 

The volunteer nodded and took it. He glanced to the back while holding the lamp offering. There was someone there. As soon as he knelt down and bowed, he already knew who that person was.

 

The volunteer came out very soon, “Sir, there is a ginkgo forest at the back of the temple. The scenery is very pretty.”

 

Qi Yun nodded, turned back and took a meaningful look at the lamp-offering altar before leaving the hall.

 

Standing behind was Xing Zhongwan. He could see Qi Yun’s every move clearly after he entered the hall. He lost a lot of weight and there were a few more strands of white hair on his head. Xing Zhongwan stared at his head with a serious expression.

 

Qi Yun’s eyes were less obsessive but firmer than before. He had made up his mind. Xing Zhongwan leaned against the door with his hands down and looked at the safety lamp that Qi Yun asked the volunteer to bring inside. On the note, the words ‘live well’ were written. Xing Zhongwan raised his hand and gently stroked it. The undried ink left marks on his fair fingers. Xing Zhongwan’s eyes hurt and the corner of his nose was sour, but a smile emerged from the corner of his mouth. This is the only time he smiled from his heart ever since he returned to China.

 

Qi Yun, you really let go of it…

 

Behind the temple is a long path, with rows full of ginkgo biloba trees. There were very few people on this mountain road and they were even more scarce due to the rain today. Qi Yun asked Shen Congxin to wait in the car below. As he held an umbrella by himself, he looked up at a row of straight ginkgo trees before walking to the fence.

 

He paused for a moment and looked down at his already wet leather shoes before looking forward slowly. The drizzle hit his black umbrella without making a sound. The rain was light but every waterdrop was dense enough to slowly soak up dry objects. It was just like the heavy feelings his heart had unknowingly been soaked full with.

 

There was the sound of footsteps on fallen leaves on the other side of the fence. Qi Yun knew that he had come.

 

“Actually, I don’t remember how you looked when I first met you. I only vaguely remember that you were dirty, thin and not beautiful, but you took my hand and said you wanted to marry me. I was very angry at that time. This stinky boy was blind and couldn’t even tell apart male and female.”

 

A chuckle came from the other side of the wall and Qi Yun laughed lightly too. There were no traces of worldly troubles, adding a touch of warmth to this rainy winter solstice.

 

“When you came back, I actually wanted to ask you if your marriage proposal from that year still counted or not. If you still want to marry me, then go ahead and marry me.” The footsteps on the other side of the wall paused and did not answer.

 

Qi Yun stretched out his hand and brushed over the wet weeds beside him, “Since I met you, I have often wondered if we would have turned out differently if our circumstances weren’t so awkward when we first met. Without the paralyzed Qi Yun, or the forced Xing Zhongwan. If I pursued you earnestly.” He seemed to be amused by his own words.

 

“I’m guessing that I will be beaten up so badly that I’ll be searching for my teeth on the ground because of your irritable temper. Even if our ancestors had a good relationship, you won’t show me any courtesy. After all, the fairy sister of your dreams became a man and shattered the dreams of your first love. “

 

Xing Zhongwan at the other end of the wall laughed and replied, “You really know me. But if you weren’t injured, you’d be a thousand times more calculative and often try to judge if I were trying to hurt you or not. I have seen you like that before. At that time, when you went to the Xing family to break off the engagement with a face that looked like everyone there had a blood feud with you. Why are you so unlikable?”

 

Qi Yun, who remembered this couldn’t help but touch his face, “You managed to take care of me for so long even if I’m so unlikable.”

 

Xing Zhongwan touched his nose before pulling out a cigarette and holding it in his hand but he didn’t light it, “I must’ve owed you in my last life, so I came to repay the debt.”

 

Qi Yun looked halfway before and lowered his head, “Now that I think about it, the days when I was paralyzed on the bed were my happiest days. At that time, I tried desperately to get better and wanted to see you, but now I really think about it. I wish I was paralyzed like back then again. “

 

Xing Zhongwan tutted, “Don’t. No fool will take care of you if you are paralyzed again.”

 

Qi Yun paused, “Are you still angry? About the things I lied to you about.”

 

Xing Zhongwan sighed, biting his cigarette and looking up at the sky full of haze, “Yes. Still angry, very angry. But things have already happened, so there’s no meaning in that anymore. It’s been so many years and if I’m still holding onto that, it’ll only prove how much I don’t appreciate myself.”

 

Qi Yun turned to look at the moss-covered fence, “Thank you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan sighed, “Why are you thanking me? As a human, everyone is allowed to cry, make trouble and also act spoiled, but next time you can’t use this method if you meet someone you like. Be honest, love is something that can’t be calculated. People who love you will always stay for you, and those who don’t love you will cause the both of you to become tortured by one another.”

 

Qi Yun’s pace slowed down. He was towards the end of his life. Will he meet someone he likes again? It might be difficult.

 

“Shen Qinghong said the same thing to me back then. I don’t know how to love someone. I’ve troubled you during this time. I’m sorry. What you said to me in the small building that day was wrong. Saying that I deserve better, but in fact, I don’t. I have done so many wrong things in my life, and I can’t even remember some of the things that I need to atone for. I have spent my life’s worth of luck when I met you. I can’t stop now or make one wrong move. I forced myself into my current dilemma.”

 

Qi Yun stopped to face the wall, he knew that Wanwan was listening quietly from there, “I was always forcing you every step of the way. That pressure almost landed you in someone else’s trap again. When you meet me, all I ever bring you is trouble.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was stunned, “You can’t say that you’re trouble. You never give yourself a little leeway when you do things. It’s too ruthless, hurting others and hurting yourself.”

 

Qi Yun’s hand brushed over the moss-covered wall, before finally turning around to look at the road that was about to end, “This is the first time we have opened our hearts to talk, if we were like that earlier, could we have actually become friends and called each other out to meet up for a drink together during our troubled times?”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s eyes were red and his hands holding the umbrella handle cracked because of the force. Nevertheless, he endured it.

 

Qi Yun looked at the black car that was waiting for him not far ahead, “Return and don’t come back. This is a place full of tough decisions. Stay in country X. I will visit auntie’s [/mfn]Xing Zhongwan’s mother[/mfn] tomb from time to time for you. Don’t worry.”

 

Xing Zhongwan couldn’t hold the cigarette in his hand anymore. His eyes were red and dripping with tears. He pressed his fist tightly against his lips and there was a deep, red circle bite mark on it.

 

“If… and I mean if.” Qi Yun said carefully.

 

“If we meet again next time, can you call me bro even just once?”

 

Xing Zhongwan squatted down, his eyes were stuffy and he couldn’t stand at all. Squatting down relieved the pain in his heart.

 

Qi Yun smiled, “I also want to call out to you one last time.”

 

Xing Zhongwan buried his head between his knees, and the soft sound from the other side of the wall made him unable to hold back any longer.

 

“May you be well. Have a safe journey.”

 

Qi Yun stared at the wall in a daze, a line of tears slid down the white and slender chin. He then turned around and walked towards the black car. Step by step, firm and steady, without looking back.

 

The two people holding umbrellas finished walking through the path separated by a wall and walked to opposite sides. They were never travelers on the same path.

 

Xue Qing took Xing Zhongwan’s umbrella and wiped the raindrops on his shoulders, “Cry it out if you’re unhappy. Don’t hold back, I won’t laugh at you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan didn’t speak, turned around and got into the car. There were two boxes in the car. One of them contained a bracelet. It was the bracelet that he broke. Even so, it is now being held by Xing Zhongwan. When Shen Congxin sent it, he said it was Qi Yun’s decision to do so. This was what belonged to his Xing family, so please be sure to accept it as it is now returned to the original owner. In the other box was the Buddha beads he gave to Qi Yun five years ago. The reason why he gave the beads to Qi Yun was because he wanted to take away his anger so that there was more room for everything else. So that there was more peace in his heart and less obsession. It was obvious that he returned the beads because the path he was about to tread was drenched in blood, so he no longer deserved it.

 

Qi Yun was about to make his move, but he endured so long just to wait for him to leave and return to Country X again.

 

If you don’t advance, you can only retreat, and Qi Yun has no way to retreat, so he can only move forward. The two people who didn’t want to drag each other down could only part ways, maybe one day in the future, they will be able to really meet and give a toast to each other with a smile.

 

Xing Zhongwan bent down and buried his face in his hands. Xue Qing couldn’t see his expression but could understand his heartache. There were too many uncontrollable things in life, but he had done his best to get this far. After caring and liking a person, even if that person has caused him harm, after the complicated feelings have been lost over the years, only the joy from before is left. They haven’t faced each other for a long time, but now they can do something for each other, even if they had to live well in different corners of the world, it was the best outcome for each of them. Xue Qing turned around and didn’t speak again. She ordered the driver to drive to the airport.

 

Xing Zhongwan raised his face. The redness in his eyes did not fade away, but he could not shed a single tear.

 

Qi Yun, if I could go back to that time, I would still say those words, ‘Sister Fairy, how about I marry you when I grow up?’

 

Qi Yun was sitting in the car as the rain got heavier. The sound of raindrops hitting the glass window was loud. Shen Congxin opened the car door and sat beside Qi Yun, “Big cousin, they’re gone.”

 

Qi Yun stared at his soaked trousers. Gone? Just leave, it will be safer to go back to Country X now. Then, he’ll be able to make a move soon…

 

“The Romance of the Western Chamber” was playing in the car and Qi Yun smiled. He didn’t know if he would ever have the chance to hear him sing the Western Chamber in his life again.

 

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T/N: A little sentimental this chapter… With Qi Yun and Xing Zhongwan walking down opposite sides of the same wall. If only Qi Yun did not have to go through with it… But don’t worry, they will triumph above all and get their happily ever after~

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Chapter 22 – Hard to defend against

 

Qi Yun was sitting in a wheelchair, struggling to put on his clothes as he put his arms through the arm-holes. He looked at his wrapped abdomen. This year, he was really stabbed by many knives, but this time the knife almost killed him. He buttoned his shirt as the door of the ward opened. Xue Qing closed the door before sitting on the sofa not far away from him.

 

Qi Yun stopped his movements and looked at her, “Thank you.”

 

The corner of Xue Qing’s mouth was raised, “I’m not helping you, I’m helping Laoxing. Speaking of which, we’ve only met two times, but it was both in the hospital. You have a very bad track record. At that time, Laoxing liked you. To tell you the truth, in so many years, I have never seen him care about a person so much. I was really angry to know that you were using your illness to keep him by your side. Xing Zhongwan may look like he gets along well with many people and has always been frank, but after his heart is hardened, no one can get close to him.”

 

Qi Yun touched the beads on his wrist sadly, “I know.” 

 

Xue Qing took a deep breath.

 

She didn’t want to say these words, but seeing that Xing Zhongwan was about to get involved in Qi Yun’s mess again, Xue Qing couldn’t bear it, “I installed a bug in your ward back then. I think you should know in hindsight that he overheard your conversation with your grandfather. I am an outsider who thinks it’s absolutely ridiculous, but he has never doubted you at all. From the beginning to the end, he understood the rules of the game in this circle too well. Do you think he didn’t know that you, Qi Yun, had the intention of taking advantage of him from the very beginning? Your background is complicated, while his upbringing environment was much cleaner than yours. Everyone all struggled out of the mud, so who is cleaner than the other and how difficult it is for such a person to believe in another person, Qi Yun, you shouldn’t lie to him. Even more so, you should not use that reason to make him stay. Do you know how headstrong Xing Zhongwan is? Just because Guan Yang drugged you, he used the secret connections buried in the country from so many years ago. Due to this, all his efforts for decades were in vain, but he didn’t feel any loss at all, just doing it all for you. He didn’t think about himself at that time. Did you know how broken he was the moment he knew the truth? That you drugged yourself? Qi Yun, you not only stomped on his heart using your own feet. You smashed it multiple times and broke it ruthlessly.”

 

Qi Yun lowered his shoulders. His face was pale and he didn’t know how much this matter had hurt Xing Zhongwan.

 

“After returning to Country X, he flew to various other countries for a year and a half without coming back, and without a word. He said he did it to take a break and have a vacation, but in fact, I know that he left to let go of the resentment towards you in his heart. He gave you all the kindness in his heart, Qi Yun. Don’t blame him for being so cruel to you, everything he did was for you. Even if he still harbors resentment towards you, he would rather bury it in his heart and give in slowly every time you approach him because staying away from you is the best way he could protect you.”

 

The corners of Qi Yun’s eyes were red and the tip of his nose was sour, “I know, I know.” He covered his face with his hands, how could he not know, it was all for him.

 

Xue Qing turned her face away, the corners of his eyes flushed. She took a deep breath, “Don’t worry. Laoxing will guard the Shen family, you can do what you want to fearlessly. Qi Yun, don’t let him down again.”

 

Xue Qing wiped her nose and opened the door to go out.

 

Qi Yun opened his hands, the scars on his palms overlapped each other. His eyes were blood red. He clenched his teeth tightly and trembled. His body that had not recovered was covered in cold sweat.

 

In recent years, he has really been doing some ‘good deeds’, and it has gone on for far too long. He doesn’t want to add any negative karma anymore. He is afraid that he will not be worthy of such a good person when he himself is full of sins. He had to kill the messenger behind the scenes, before it was too late.

 

Wanwan was his weakness five years ago. It was even more so five years later. If it’s like that,  then let’s go to hell together.

 

At the Qi family’s old house, in Qi Zongcheng’s bedroom… 

 

Back then, he got a stroke and has been paralyzed on the bed by Qi Yun ever since getting angered. Looking at Qi Yun who was being pushed in a wheelchair, Qi Zongcheng raised his still-mobile left hand and pointed at him, “I knew you wouldn’t die so easily.” 

 

Qi Yun moved his own wheelchair expressionlessly and came beside his bed, “Grandpa, you can’t look down on me like that. If I die, the Qi family will really have no successor. Are you willing to end it with your hands?”

 

Qi Zongcheng’s eyes widened, “My Qi family doesn’t need an heir like you. I feel disgusted just thinking about the matter between you and that man from the Xing family. The Qi family doesn’t have such a shameless descendant like you!”

 

Qi Yun held Qi Zongcheng’s stiff hand, “Grandpa, when I threatened you with the files. Why didn’t you throw the stack of documents back in my face and tell me to scram? Oh… I guess it was because at that time, the little bastard son you hid was not an adult yet, right?”

 

Qi Yun’s face was pale and his lips were pale. He looked like death was at his doorstep. 

“What’s the matter now? You think that now’s the best time to get rid of me? You want to give everything you have now to your little son?”

 

Qi Zongcheng’s face turned dark and there was terror in his eyes, “You! You! What are you doing? That’s your blood-related, dear uncle!”

 

Qi Yun laughed, “Uncle? It turns out that I still have relatives. So he is my blood-relative. My grandfather sent someone to stab me with a knife and my uncle can’t wait to trample over me under his feet, coveting the power in my hands. The both of you really are so dear to me.”

 

Qi Zongcheng’s eyes widened, “Qi Yun! You bastard! What kind of sins did my Qi family commit in our past life to raise such a wolf-hearted thing like you!”

 

Qi Yun backed away, hiding the sneer on his face, “Your beloved little son will be able to go to hell and accompany you soon. Didn’t you think about this when you started it? Either you will kill me, or… ah, you still can’t die. You have to watch how the Qi family will be crushed by my hands. I’m getting tired of playing after so many years.”

 

Qi Zongcheng pointed at Qi Yun. His eyes were wide open and he couldn’t catch his breath for a while before he passed out. The air left him like an old bellows box and his body became like a lifeless plastic bag leaking air.

 

Qi Yun turned around, moved his wheelchair to the door and watched Qi Zongcheng’s rosy complexion slowly fade away. Qi Yun’s face was expressionless as he watched the old man lying on the bed rot like an old tree slowly.

 

With a sigh, he turned the door handle and walked out of Qi Zongcheng’s bedroom. The bodyguard came over with a man who was covered in injuries. Qi Yun looked at his personal secretary who was beaten, his bruised face finally showed a hint of movement.

 

The secretary raised his face with difficulty, “Sir, why…I…never told anyone…”

 

Qi Yun asked the bodyguard to take the person to the hospital for treatment.

 

When he turned around, he found himself in the middle of the long corridor with no end in sight. Back then, it was his grandma who led his little self to walk out of this dark corridor. Within it was a demon that devoured people’s hearts. Everyone in this house had their hearts devoured by the demon and soon became disgusting monsters themselves.

 

Qi Yun opened the palms of his hands. He couldn’t even remember how many people were killed by him and how much blood there was on his hands. He was also a sinful monster and he too, could not be redeemed.

 

He slid his wheelchair alone, out of in this corridor, slowly disappearing into the darkness…

 

Shen Congxin came to pick up Qi Yun to send him to the hospital. Qi Yun was in so much pain that he couldn’t even get into the car, so Shen Congxin held back his tears and helped him up and into the car. Qi Yun glanced sideways at him, “You should grow up, you have to learn to pick up important matters in the future.”

 

Shen Congxin opened the door on the other side and sat down, “Big cousin, let’s go to the hospital first. Don’t think about it. I will grow up, I don’t want to be so useless. Do you blame me for telling cousin-in-law?”

 

Qi Yun covered his wound and did not answer Shen Congxin. Shen Congxin held the handkerchief and little by little, wiped his forehead for him.

 

“He probably doesn’t feel any better than I do now.”

 

“Let’s go to the hospital. I’ll be busy tomorrow. I have to get dressed and put up a front to those who are waiting to see my disgraced self. We have to let them know that Qi Yun is not dead yet.”

 

Shen Congxin was stunned, “But your body…”

 

Qi Yun turned his head and looked tired, “Don’t look at the me who is standing on a high place now. I don’t know when I will fall, but it will hurt as much as when I rose up. If that day comes, the Shen family will be the first to be dragged along into the mud. I promised Shen Qinghong to take care of you. If something happens to me, go to Wanwan. He will meet you and he will help you to keep the last living semblance of the Shen family alive because of the friendship our two ancestors had. Though this is all up to you now.”

 

It was as if Qi Yun were saying his final words. It completely frightened Shen Congxin, “Don’t scare me big cousin. Things haven’t gone bad to such a degree yet.”

 

Qi Yun coughed a few times. Before the accident, he received a photo of him standing downstairs at Zhong Gang’s house. Xing Zhongwan was not in the photo but it was just a warning to him. This person knew him and Wanwan’s history. This was a threat to him. They had something to use against Qi Yun, and this piece of information could ruin him forever. However, not directly posting photos of Xing Zhongwan means that his identity was still somewhat protected.

 

There was only one person who hated him and knew that he and Wanwan had been involved with each other. Besides that woman, Qi Yun couldn’t think of anyone else. How preposterous of a crazy bitch in a sanatorium! He’s afraid that the Guan family behind her had already joined forces with his enemies to push him towards death.

 

Qi Yun wasn’t afraid of fighting with others, but no matter how difficult it was, he couldn’t involve Wanwan. He suddenly felt a little regretful of his cruel way of settling things after meeting Wanwan. It only gave people a chance to take advantage of his weakness.

 

Things are going to be hard to control, but in any case, he has to wait until Wanwan returns to Country X.

 

In the Shen family, No. 4 reported the current situation to Xing Zhongwan who was standing on the balcony smoking. This afternoon, the Supervisory Committee had sent someone to the Shen family.

 

“Mr. Xue called and said that Mr. Qi returned to the Qi family’s house. This afternoon Qi Zongcheng died. The publically reported cause of death was a sudden heart attack.”

 

Xing Zhongwan smoked a cigarette. Half of his face was hidden by the shadows of the setting sun. It was really fitting of his personality, even dragging his injured body to directly settle the issue.

 

Xing Zhongwan turned around and entered the room, excusing No. 4. He lay on the sofa with one hand covering half of his face. Qi Zongcheng did not do this alone. He hated Qi Yun for ending him, but he would never put the Qi family in danger. It wasn’t his intention to invite a Supervisory Committee to investigate the Shen family, but someone wanted to mess with Qi Yun. The Shen family was interconnected with the Qi family. If there was something wrong, the Qi family would not be able to escape it too, Qi Zongcheng was not stupid.

 

Who was this person? Xing Zhongwan took a deep breath, put his hands in his hair and stared at the ceiling.

 

If the Shen family managed to get through this supervision and review, what should he do next? How are they planning to pull Qi Yun down? Xing Zhongwan suddenly sat up from the sofa, raised his hands to look at the scars on his wrists. Qi Yun was acting too fast. This was a warning to the other party, but it was not the best time. Why was he doing this?

 

Xing Zhongwan’s slender eyes suddenly looked forward, and his pale blue pupils glowed under the cold light… unless someone threatened Qi Yun using his name.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s knuckles cracked. Seems like what he hoped would not happen was still going to occur.

 

---

T/N: Insert ‘another one meme’ here…!

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Chapter 21 – We are each other’s weaknesses

 

As soon as Xue Qing got off the plane, she rushed to the hospital. She tried to contact Xing Zhongwan but because the boss was busy and had no time to answer the phone, No. 4. Was instructed to tell President Xue to fully cooperate with the Shen family and let her know that the Qi family cannot be trusted. Zhong Gang wouldn’t be able to stay behind as he was a well-known person in the country. As such, he would be sent back to the company and Xue Qing would be the one to go take his place.

 

Xue Qing had agreed before hanging up the phone.

 

As she entered the hospital, Xue Qing and Zhong Gang happened to meet, but the two did not exchange words and only tacitly glanced at each other.

 

When Xue Qing arrived at the door of the ward, Shen Congxin was sitting outside. He saw Xue Qing and got up quickly. Xue Qing sighed after seeing those eyes were red and swollen from crying. There was really no one competent around Qi Yun.

 

She made a stop gesture at Shen Congxin, rendering him speechless, “Don’t talk for now, I’ll ask you one question at a time, so just answer slowly.”

 

Shen Congxin nodded mutely as Xue Qing breathed a sigh of relief. Now, she needed to determine the current status quo in an orderly manner instead of listening to this confused child incoherently.

 

“How is Qi Yun’s condition?”

 

“He woke up this morning, but went into a coma again. The doctor said that he is out of danger for now.”

 

Xue Qing nodded, “Where’s the person who stabbed him?”

 

“He’s being held in the detention center.”

 

Seemingly influenced by Xue Qing’s calm demeanor, Shen Congxin felt less panicked.

 

“What about the public opinion from the general public?”

 

“There is no major change right now. There is no problem with the media, but I am afraid that the person working behind the scenes will not give up.”

 

Xue Qing squeezed his thin shoulders, “You’ve done a great job so far. Alright, go to rest for a while. I’ll go in and see Qi Yun.”

 

Shen Congxin shook his head, “I’m here to watch my big cousin. If something happens to him, I won’t have the face to go to meet my godmother.”

 

Shen Congxin sat on the chair outside the ward, covering his face. Xue Qing looked back at the closed ward, turned and walked two steps before opening the door.

 

Xue Qing approached and looked at Qi Yun’s condition. He hadn’t woken up yet, but he didn’t look very good. Xue Qing frowned. Just as she was about to go out, she saw Qi Yun’s mouth moving as if he was talking. Xue Qing couldn’t hear clearly and had to lean down closer to Qi Yun’s face.

 

The two words were not very clear in her ears so Xue Qing just stood up straight before leaving the ward. The two words Qi Yun kept saying were actually Wanwan.

 

Xue Qing came out of the ward, spoke with Qi Yun’s attending doctor, checked the time and wanted to call Xing Zhongwan. Shen Congxin came over from the opposite side of the corridor and asked if Xue Qing was going to go eat first. Xue Qing ruffled her hair, “I’m not going to eat. I’ll go back to the hotel to sort things out and come over in the afternoon later.”

 

Shen Congxin seemed to have something to say and hesitated, not knowing how to say it. Xue Qing said, “What do you want to say? Just ask me directly, let’s not waste time on being inefficient, after all, these are dire times.”

 

“Why didn’t Brother Zhongwan come to see my big cousin, he has been… My big cousin has been calling his name. I…”

 

Xue Qing hummed, feeling that the child was too innocent and protected to think that the answer was so simple, “Why didn’t Laoxing come? What happened between them had been closely kept under wraps and outsiders may not be able to do much. Sometimes, when there are intricate spider webs, one must be careful about what they say and do at the moment when these webs are not yet fully realized. If Laoxing didn’t come to protect Qi Yun, there must be an internal problem. This person might have understood what happened at the time Qi Yun was paralyzed, so Laoxing cannot just simply jump the gun and give the enemy an extra leverage and chance to smear mud on Qi Yun’s name. This scandal would be enough to ruin Qi Yun’s reputation, not to mention that Laoxing is from the X country. If someone makes a fuss about this matter, it will not be as simple as ruining his reputation. Although the relationship between the two countries is good, if you think about it, a speaker of parliament and a wealthy person from country X, there should be no relationship between these two people. If someone with some bad intentions gets the evidence of their true relationship, what will happen to Qi Yun? Can you take a gander?”

 

Shen Congxin almost collapsed to the ground, he really didn’t think so deeply. What will happen to Qi Yun? Thinking of the consequences, Shen Congxin covered his mouth and almost forgot to breathe.

 

Xue Qing took her handbag, kneeled down and patted his shoulder, “Don’t just look at the things happening on the surface, regarding Laoxing… think about it yourself.”

 

Xue Qing got into the elevator and went down to the basement. From the exit of the basement, she exited the hospital and took a taxi to the hotel. After entering the hotel room, she inspected the room for bugs carefully. Only then did she take out her mobile phone and change it to a sim card for contacting Xing Zhongwan. After she made the call, the phone rang for a while before it was picked up. Xing Zhongwan’s voice was a little tired. Xue Qing asked him if it was a good time to talk.

 

“Speak.”

 

Xue Qing started, “Qi Yun’s situation has stabilized and he already woke up once while I was on the way to him.”

 

Xing Zhongwan hummed and Xue Qing continued, “I need more manpower now. People from the Qi family are out of the question and Qi Yun’s secretary has not been found since his accident. I suspect that the secretary was the mole or has been instigated behind the scenes. Now that my situation here is under control, there is still one thing that remains unsettled. What you have to do now is to gather the people serving Qi Yun before his body can recover in order to take control of the current situation. The rest is up to you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was silent for a while, “I’ll tell you the news later. As for more manpower… Shen Congxin should know something. It’s time for that child to grow up. It’s unrealistic to completely avoid the Qi family, and it’s impossible to just watch them from the sidelines. Remember not to cause a head-on conflict. This is not country X, it won’t be favorable for us.”

 

Xue Qing agreed before hanging up. She then took out the sim card, broke it and threw it into the toilet.

 

Xing Zhongwan handed over the mobile phone to No. 4 before rushing back. It all happened through the night so he didn’t sleep well at all. He was now in the Shen family’s house. The first time he came here, Shen Qinghong was still alive and begged him to leave some thought for Qi Yun. The second time, Qi Yun was fighting for his life in the hospital. He could probably guess who the main conspirator was behind the scenes. He doesn’t understand why Qi Yun fell back into the same situation twice. Was the lesson from five years ago not enough?

 

He returned to the living room on the second floor. The people inside were all the elders of the Shen family and Shen Qinghong’s former confidants. As soon as Qi Yun entered the hospital, the Shen family was in chaos and they didn’t know what to do. Xing Zhongwan had gathered them together in the Shen family’s old house.

 

“Qi Yun won’t be able to take care of things this time, so it’s a good opportunity for them to take advantage of the situation. The scandal about his dysfunctional family is not enough to destroy him, so I guess that their next move would be towards the Shen family.”

 

Xing Zhongwan sat down and took a sip of tea. The Vice President wiped the sweat from his forehead. All the old people in the room already knew what happened between Qi Yun and Xing Zhongwan back then. What’s more, in the old lady’s will, Xing Zhongwan now owns 30% of the shares in the Shen family. Although the bracelet was not in his hands now, Qi Yun’s position at the annual general meeting of shareholders was always vacant. Everyone knew this.

 

“What do you think we should do next?”

 

Xing Zhongwan took a document from No. 3’s hand, “It is impossible that the Shen family has operated cleanly for so many years. Now that Qi Yun is in the hospital, it cannot be ruled out that someone will try to make a fuss during this time. It is impossible for you to always be concerned about the bad apples in the whole group that you usually turn a blind eye to. Now, that small problem may turn into a big mistake. Qi Yun has not woken up, so he can’t protect the Shen family. It is possible that the problems from the Shen family will be used to drag him into the mud. You don’t have to make too many changes or solve all the problems now. Just make sure all the departments, especially the finance department, can’t make any statements anytime soon.”

 

Several of them were very sharp, so they immediately understood the meaning of Xing Zhongwan’s words.

 

Xing Zhongwan gave out the documents in his hand, “You can focus on these aspects to find the culprit. The Shen family and Qi Yun are both prosperous. However, prosperity and detriment are two sides of the same coin.”

 

Vice President Chen looked at the document in his hand and was surprised. There was regret as he looked at Xing Zhongwan’s eyes again. Why was he not a woman, if he were a woman, sigh…

 

Xing Zhongwan got up and said, “If there’s nothing else, go back first. You can contact my secretary later.”

 

When everyone was almost gone, Xing Zhongwan took out a cigarette. Just as he was about to light it, a lighter was brought up beside him, Xing Zhongwan squinted his eyes, “You haven’t left yet?”

 

Vice President Chen lit his cigarette, “I want to thank you. You can actually relax and disregard our family situation for now.”

 

Xing Zhongwan took a drag but his throat was a little uncomfortable. He hadn’t eaten or drank for almost a day, and his brain was full of thoughts on how he could help Qi Yun.

 

“Actually, Young Master Yun wrote a will three years ago.”

 

Xing Zhongwan turned his head, “What? A will?”

 

Vice President Chen nodded, “After his death, you will inherit 40% of the equity in the Shen family.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was stunned for a while with the cigarette in hand. He suddenly laughed, “He’s really crazy.”

 

Vice President Dong Chen smiled, “We outsiders don’t understand the things between you two, but it’s really been difficult for Young Master Yun for the past few years. The relationship between you and the young master will bring trouble, but aside from this, I also hope that Young Master Yun can be happy. He has nothing to be happy about in his life and the only one he can’t let go of is you. This old man is old and has a lot to say. Just don’t say what you don’t mean and follow your heart.”

 

Vice President Chen had already left, but Xing Zhongwan stood in the living room for a long time until the cigarette in his hand burned his fingertips.

 

Xing Zhongwan lowered his head, chuckled and pressed the cigarette butt into the ashtray.

 

His tense nerves finally loosened a little. Xing Zhongwan leaned over and had a cramp in his stomach. He knew that leaving him alone was the best choice, but he just couldn’t let him go. He couldn’t see Qi Yun get into another accident. It was like that five years ago, and it was still the same now.

 

Qi Yun finally woke up at night and Shen Congxin’s eyes flowed with tears of joy. When Qi Yun turned his head to the side with difficulty and saw Xue Qing, his still chaotic mind instantly understood the situation. He looked at him and opened his mouth, “Don’t let Wanwan come.”

 

Shen Congxin cried more fiercely when he heard it. When he was in a coma, he kept calling Wanwan’s name. The first sentence he woke up was, don’t let Xing Zhongwan come. You, yourself are already in this condition, yet you still did not want to implicate cousin-in-law.

 

“Don’t worry, he won’t come over to the Shen family’s house. You can ask me to do anything that is inconvenient these days.”

 

Qi Yun struggled to get up from the bed and Shen Congxin hurried to help. Xue Qing sighed, “Don’t be brave. Aren’t you seriously injured? Don’t worry about Laoxing.”

 

Qi Yun frowned, grabbed the sheets and raised his head to look at Xue Qing, “Go back. Go back to Country X, Wanwan.”

 

Xue Qing pulled the chair aside and sat down, “He won’t leave, not until he sees that you’re safe. He won’t go back. You should know his temperament as well as he knows your’s.”

 

Qi Yun lay back on the bed, staring at the ceiling, wondering what to think. After a long time, he said, “I will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow.” Shen Congxin’s expression changed, “Big cousin, you are crazy. How are you going to leave the hospital now?”

 

Qi Yun looked at Xue Qing with a calm expression, “I know who did it.”

 

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Chapter 20 – I only wish you peace, joy and laughter

 

Xing Zhongwan escorted Qi Yun out the entrance. It was drizzling and windy. Wearing a dark coat, Qi Yun looked at Xing Zhongwan calmly, “Then I’m leaving.”

 

Xing Zhongwan nodded, “Be careful on the road.”

 

Qi Yun gave him a deep look, turned and walked towards the car parked not far away. With his tall and straight back, he suddenly stopped halfway without looking back and said, “Take care of yourself.”

 

Xing Zhongwan said okay and Qi Yun’s shoulders shook a little as he strode into the car. The bodyguard beside the car bowed towards Xing Zhongwan.

 

Xing Zhongwan watched the long motorcade slowly leave as the old man standing beside him smiled, “That gentleman is a bit mean and unsympathetic, but once he likes a person, it will last a lifetime.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was taken aback for a moment. His shoulders were still wet. He couldn’t help but reach out and touch his shoulders and stopped in a strange way.

 

Qi Yun sat in the car and watched Xing Zhongwan in the rearview mirror gradually disappear from sight. There was a delicate box in the car, Qi Yun opened it and looked at the repaired jade bracelet with a phoenix pattern inside. He still kept the bracelet. Qi Yun held the box and closed his eyes and leaned back on the chair.

 

Seeing him, the secretary knew that he and Xing Zhongwan had broken up. He felt a little pity for Qi Yun, but it was a fortunate thing so nothing could go wrong at this juncture.

 

Qi Yun had offended General Chen in the previous incident. He was already somewhat dissatisfied with Qi Yun and even publicly supported other candidates on some occasions.

 

Recently, someone made a fuss about Qi Yun throwing his biological mother in a mental asylum, and even that old story about Qi Yun did not show up at the funeral of the fourth young master was brought to light.

 

Qi Yun himself didn’t react much so someone from the Shen family was sent to contact him privately to discuss how to deal with it.

 

How could Qi Yun’s secretary not be clear about his master’s thoughts after following him for so many years? How could he not know the reason he was working so hard to climb up for?

 

But now that Qi Yun had lost the belief that had supported him for many years, it would be meaningless to take another step forward. At this point, it is no longer a question of whether he wanted to go further, and the intricate interest of others below cannot be stopped by Qi Yun.

 

The secretary looked at the thin man with pity in his eyes.

 

“The meeting in the afternoon, should I postpone it for you?”

 

Qi Yun closed his eyes and did not speak.

 

The secretary gritted his teeth and he had to say something, “Sir, the current situation can make it into the headlines easily. If you want to protect the young madam, you must not stop at this time, at least… At least until he has returned to Country X.” 

 

The secretary looked at Qi Yun nervously after speaking in one breath, with fine sweat on his forehead. He never dared to say such words before, but now that Qi Yun’s condition was really not good, he took advantage of the situation…

 

“No need to postpone it.” ​​Qi Yun opened his eyes and closed the box, “Send someone to protect Wanwan before he returns to Country X. He never liked being followed, so be secretive about it. Don’t let my affairs involve him.” Qi Yun’s beautiful eyes always had dark circles because of his long-term insomnia, but his eyes hardly wavered.

 

“Actually, I don’t think you and the young madam have no hope at all.” The secretary felt that he said a lot of outrageous things today, but this sentence was not bad. He knew that Qi Yun liked a man ever since he came to serve Qi Yun’s. He went from being surprised at the beginning to accepting after he saw Xing Zhongwan. The man’s excellence was enough to make others ignore his gender, he was a person who could be loved by everyone. Their former secretary didn’t know this, but Qi Yun’s dedication and hard work over the years was what he saw, and he hoped that they could have a good ending, even if it was difficult and dangerous.

 

Qi Yun held the string of Buddha beads on his wrist. He had kept it in good condition for so many years, and he had always cherished the things given to him by Wanwan.

 

“I didn’t understand it before, but now I understand that liking someone is not about ownership. Even if we’re not together, as long as I know that the other person is doing well, I can feel happy. He said that I deserve the best, and he deserves the best too. My Wanwan has always been the kindest, no matter how bad I am. I can’t bear to say anything serious towards him. How can I be worthy of him? Five years ago, I had brought him down once, and now I can’t become more obsessive just because of my own desire and allow him to fall into this bottomless vortex.” 

 

The secretary sighed. If it were not because of his deep love…

 

Qi Yun felt a pain in his heart when he remembered the tear stains on the floor of the restaurant. Wanwan, even if you don’t believe me anymore, you still can’t bear to see me sad. You even think that me approaching you will affect my career, afraid that you will become a target that others will use to slander me.

 

It’s okay if I can’t see you. As long as I know you are doing well, that’s enough… 

 

No. 3, received a call from Qi Yun’s Secretary who introduced Xing Zhongwan to a hospital specializing in medical examinations. No. 3 told her boss about this matter and Xing Zhongwan asked her to note down the appointment time for his checkup. No. 4 was reporting her work as she looked at No. 3, who was taking advantage of the neutral mood. Mr. Qi has not showed up here in a long time. In the past, after he frequently showed his face here every day, not being seen for three to four days could be considered a long time.

 

They had a good impression of Qi Yun, even if their boss seemed indifferent. They saw on more than one occasion when Xing Zhongwan secretly smiled after seeing him. It was impossible for them not to see the boss’s feelings towards him.

 

Xing Zhongwan closed the document and stretched his neck, “It’s been almost half a month and Zhong Gang is almost fully healed. We’re going to go back.”

 

No. 3 flipped through the itinerary, “Boss, do you want it the day after tomorrow? When I went to the house in Jiangnan, Mr. Qi’s secretary called and said that he wanted to give it back to you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan thought for a while, “It’s useless for me to keep that house, so I’ll give it to Qi Yun.” 

 

No. 3 noted it down neatly in her notebook as Xing Zhongwan walked back and forth before suddenly turning around, “Book a flight for tomorrow to Jiangnan. I haven’t been back for a long time and I don’t know when I will come back next time.”

 

Zhong Gang, who had been recuperating in the hospital for half a month, had finally returned to the company. On the day Zhong Gang returned to the company, Xing Zhongwan took his two secretaries to Jiangnan promptly.

 

The old house was well managed and the servants in it were surprised when they saw Xing Zhongwan. The young master really came back. Xing Zhongwan walked around the old house. Qi Yun had really put a lot of effort into this old house over the years. Xing Zhongwan lowered his head and smiled. He was saying goodbye to the servants in the old house. He actually had no nostalgia for this house, but that person took care of it like some treasure. Xing Zhongwan shook his head and took a long look before he stepped out of the door.

 

Xing Zhongwan respectfully lit incense in the temple. He has not been here for a long time. The most recent was when he accompanied Qi Yun to come here to pray, hoping that his operation would be successful. When he remembered his appearance at that time, Xing Zhongwan lightly snorted. He always thought that he was quite smart, but his intelligence was reduced to a dog’s when facing Qi Yun. Now he still felt embarrassed in retrospect. He didn’t know when, but…

 

When did he feel like he had a red rope of fate tied together with Qi Yun?

 

Xing Zhongwan got up from the soft pillow and added some oil to the lamp. He wanted to offer a safety lamp[/mfn]Used for prayers or wishes in a temple[/mfn], but when he entered the small room at the back and just wanted to light a lamp, he saw many safety lamps with the name Xing Zhongwan in a row. His hand, which had been holding a lamp, almost slipped. He recognized the handwriting. Those bold strokes that didn’t match his face. But why were there so many safety lamps with his name written on it?

 

He remembered saying that he didn’t believe him, but even after so many years, so why?

 

There were many hand-copied Buddhist scriptures on the side. Xing Zhongwan recognized the words on it and couldn’t help but approach them and turn them over. After turning them over, he found that there were too many of them and Xing Zhongwan’s hand didn’t dare to turn any more over again. He was a little scared and didn’t dare to verify that it was all Qi Yun’s work.

 

A volunteer came in at the door. Seeing Xing Zhongwan stunned in front of the lampstand, he thought he didn’t understand something, and approached him to ask him if he needed help.

 

Xing Zhongwan didn’t speak and the volunteer followed his line of sight to see the lamps and Buddhist scriptures.

 

“You are also shocked by this. I do remember the gentleman who offered these lamps. He always comes once or twice a year, and every time he comes, he offers the lamps. He said that it is for his lover far away and always prayed for them to be safe and healthy. He copied those Buddhist scriptures too. He said that he had sinned too many times in his life, and that he deserved retribution, but he was afraid that the people he loved would also suffer. If you want to earn some merit and eliminate karma, it is not easy copying this book. It might be a simple gesture, but it is sincere despite being a little obsessive.”

 

Xing Zhongwan didn’t know how he got out of the temple, but his mind was full of the words the volunteer said. He suddenly understood the words of Qi Yun in the cubicle of the small building that day.

 

Not only did he promise not to meet him again in the future, but he also didn’t want Xing Zhongwan to be entangled in the unpleasant memories of the past.

 

It’s not that Xing Zhongwan didn’t see the news about him in the past few days about someone targeting him. If the wind of those old and rotten events broke out at an important juncture of the general election to smear him. Who would suffer for it?

 

This was the usual tactic used in this circle. Qi Yun cannot avoid it and whoever was in a high position cannot avoid fighting to the death while dripping in blood.

 

Qi Yun was haggard and Xing Zhongwan was not blind. He could see it. Those tired eyes could only relax after seeing the one of their heart’s desire.

 

He didn’t say it, but he knew that Qi Yun was already very tired after walking this road, but at this point, he couldn’t just quit even if he wanted to.

 

He didn’t want to cause trouble for Qi Yun, but Qi Yun involved himself in this endless struggle again.

 

Xing Zhongwan raised his head and looked at the cloudy sky. Qi Yun, all I can do now is not to be a burden to you. I can only watch you attain that position and bless you sincerely.

 

A little drizzle started before the sky started to pour. No. 3 held an umbrella for Xing Zhongwan. Xing Zhongwan got into the car and his phone rang. It was Shen Congxin, Xing Zhongwan frowned. He thought about it for a while before pressing to answer.

 

On the other end of the phone, Shen Congxin’s voice trembled, “Brother Zhongwan, my eldest cousin is in the hospital and now the Shen family is in chaos, what should I do? If something happens to my eldest cousin, what should I do? What should I do with the Shen family??”

 

Shen Congxin couldn’t help crying when he said the last sentence.

 

Xing Zhongwan frowned and his heart sank, “Why is he in the hospital? Explain it clearly.”

 

Shen Congxin wiped his tears and looked at Qi Yun, who was still in a coma on the hospital bed. He went to an event this morning and was stabbed by someone. The security is so strict but some people managed to sneak in. We had internal problems and I have no one to discuss it with. He’s still not out of danger, I…”

 

Xing Zhongwan clenched the phone beside his ear, trying to calm himself down, “Don’t worry about it now. I’ll go back right now and ask Zhong Gang to come to the hospital. He can be trusted. Go find him first.”

 

Xing Zhongwan put down the phone. No. 4 handed a handkerchief to Xing Zhongwan as he opened the car window as the cold wind blew in, only to find that cold sweat had formed on his forehead.

 

The phone in his hand was soaked with sweat from his hand, and the words “not out of danger” were stuck in his mind. Xing Zhongwan’s heartbeat was so fast that even No. 3 beside him couldn’t help but ask him if he was ill.

 

Xing Zhongwan made up his mind that he couldn’t panic now. He picked up the phone and dialed Xue Qing’s number, “Where are you now?”

 

Xue Qing said, “In country T, what’s wrong?”

 

“It’ll only take 4 hours to fly over then. Xue Qing, take the earliest plane back. Leave the other matters to Laocheng.” Xue Qing, who was still in the bed, immediately looked serious, “I’ll book the ticket now. No matter what happens from now, don’t worry.”

 

After knowing each other for more than ten years, Xue Qing knew that something was not right with Xing Zhongwan’s tone. As soon as she heard it, she knew something was wrong.

 

Xing Zhongwan was relieved. The moment he heard Xue Qing say don’t worry, his eyes quickly turned red.

 

“Thank you.”

 

Xue Qing was not in the mood to tease him. She hung up the phone and went to pack up.

 

During this period, her phone beeped. By the time, Xue Qing packed up and dragged her suitcase to see the notification, her expression changed instantly.

 

Zhong Gang: Something happened to Qi Yun!

 

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T/N: Alrighty, that concludes all the updates for today (?)

I’ll be updating the other novels soon, but I would like to finish off Forced into the Deep first. Do expect to get the rest of the chapters as well as the end by this week. Phew, I’m kind of nervous as it’s my first long novel that I’ve ever translated…

I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and Who Says Omegas Can’t be as Explosive as Alphas will follow soon after! Thank you so much for your continued patience and understanding, I will endeavor to bring you more chapters soon~

 

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Chapter 19 – Let everyone be well without thinking of each other

 

Xing Zhongwan fastened his seatbelt and saw that Qi Yun, who was beside him, had already settled in properly. Feeling that Wanwan was looking at him, Qi Yun turned his head and smiled, “Is something wrong?”

 

Xing Zhongwan quickly turned his head and coughed twice, “Thank you for the lawyer you found for Xie Ming.”

 

Qi Yun thought about it before breathing a sigh of relief. His eyebrows relaxed, “It’s no big deal.”

 

Xing Zhongwan owed Qi Yun a favor because before he used his connections to find a lawyer for Xie Ming. Xie Ming’s called him earlier to tell him that she had already been contacted by a lawyer. Xing Zhongwan was also a little surprised by the lawyer’s background.

 

This lawyer had been retired for several years. It can be said that many famous barristers now were once his students. One could imagine how high his status was in the circle. If you wanted to invite him out of the mountains, you won’t have the status to. Xing Zhongwan has always been smart, so it was very clear who pushed him to come out behind the scenes. Qi Yun was one of the students this old gentleman was proud of. Qi Yun, you made me owe you a big favor as soon as I arrived.

 

As Xing Zhongwan was thinking about it, the person next to him said, “Your business is my own. Don’t think too much.”

 

Xing Zhongwan said in his heart. Can you not bother with it? I don’t want to have any relationship with you.

 

“Please, let us have a meal and we’re even.”

 

Xing Zhongwan started the car and drove out of the parking lot. Qi Yun looked at his tense profile and wanted to reach out, “You don’t owe me anything. For you to even come out with me, I owe you even more.” 

 

After getting out of the car, there was more awkward silence…

 

Xing Zhongwan was driving when a call came. A soothing and crisp female voice sounded, “Boss, your medical examination is coming up.”

 

Xing Zhongwan held his forehead, “It’s the middle of the night over there, you don’t have to be so diligent. What if you drop dead suddenly?” 

 

The secretary snorted and said in very standard Chinese, “I’m only being diligent. If you don’t simply run around and let me binge on snacks, I can live another 20 more years.”

 

Xing Zhongwan exhaled, “Okay, I’m busy now but when I go back, I’ll find the time to go.”

 

“Remember not to eat junk food and eat light meals. Exercise more, don’t work at the desk for a long time, keep a good mood, and most importantly, don’t stay up late. I’ve already told No. 3 and No. 4 and they will look after you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was a little embarrassed. He didn’t know that his secretary called him specifically to say this, but Qi Yun, who was beside him, heard it clearly. “Understood, Mother [/mfn]Xing Zhongwan jokingly says this because she was being very motherly[/mfn]Xie Yi.” 

 

The person on the other side seemed to sigh, “Boss, if the company runs out of secretaries, you can find another secretary, but there is only one boss, so pay attention to your body.”

 

The moment he hung up, Xing Zhongwan felt a complicated gaze coming from beside him. Just as he was about to explain, Qi Yun had already asked, “Wanwan, what’s wrong with your body?”

 

Qi Yun’s voice has always been deep and the tone of his speech is always indifferent. At this time, it was a little rushed.

 

“I’m in good health.” Xing Zhongwan turned on the turn signal and turned into the passing lane.

 

“Do you know how my grandfather died? Of heart disease, and how did my great-grandfather die? Of heart disease. When they were young, they were always healthy. It was after the age of 40 that they found out that they had a heart problem. So when it’s my turn, in order not to repeat the same mistakes, I have always paid attention to my diet and exercise. I go for a physical examination every six months. I’m healthy so far. Don’t look at me like I’m terminally ill, I’m going to live a hundred years.”

 

Qi Yun’s heart was not soothed by Wanwan’s explanation, “I’ll book a hospital appointment for you. Don’t wait too long, go tomorrow.”

 

“I will find a hospital myself, so you don’t have to worry about it.”

 

“Be obedient! Is this kind of thing a joke?” Qi Yun’s voice suddenly rose. The frightened Xing Zhongwan accidentally honked the horn, and the sound of the horn made Qi Yun recover from his tense emotions. He lowered his head and apologized.

 

How could he not care? Qi Yun’s heart was still beating so fast. If something really happened to Wanwan, then he… Then what should he do?

 

Xing Zhongwan couldn’t help but roll his eyes at him, “Hey, why are you looking like I’m going to die tomorrow? They all say I’m healthy, okay? It’s just prevention, do you understand?!”

 

Qi Yun looked sideways at the cars and pedestrians passing by outside the window, “Wanwan, don’t you know how much weight you hold in my heart?” 

 

Xing Zhongwan stared at the road ahead and suddenly wanted to smoke a little. As he felt around the cigarette case, he suddenly stopped. He did not want to smoke in front of Qi Yun.

 

Before and now, he was always unable to resist Qi Yun when he showed a little weakness. Xing Zhongwan didn’t think he was a softhearted person, but he always had to spend a little more effort to deal with Qi Yun.

 

“Qi Yun, is it bad for you to like women? It’s not easy for you to get where you are today, don’t let your future be affected because of any stains.”

 

Qi Yun turned his head, his expression was bitter, “How can you be considered a stain?”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s eyes drifted over the scars on his wrist. Although they were covered by a watch, they were always exposed accidentally.

 

“A couple can still be together even if they don’t love each other. I have understood this since I was a child.”

 

Xing Zhongwan smiled, “You have been looking for me for so many years, so you should be very clear about the Xing family’s history. Xing Yanyin loved my mother so much at the beginning, but in the end, she would not have died if he didn’t push her to someone else.”

 

Qi Yun lowered his eyelids gently. Xing Zhongwan was simply opening up about his life experience that was difficult to let an outsider like him know the truth about marriage. Qi Yun was quite heartbroken that Wanwan thought this way.

 

“Isn’t it better to take the easy road out? Why do you have to take the hard road? In this world, love cannot solve everything. What’s more, I don’t believe you anymore, Qi Yun.”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s words made Qi Yun tense up. The words he was about to blurt out were suffocated by him. His affirmation of distrust made Qi Yun unable to refute him. After all, there were many things he did wrong in the beginning.

 

Xing Zhongwan stopped the car in front of a small building and a tall and strong man in his forties greeted them at the entrance, “Master, you have arrived.”

 

Xing Zhongwan patted him on the shoulder, “Excuse me. Sorry for my sudden arrival, please clear the venue.”

 

The man’s face was full of smiles, “What is the young master saying? I heard that you were coming for dinner, so this grandpa was busy since early in the morning. After speaking, he nodded towards Qi Yun who was at the back. The Xing family had seen many important figures, so they were not surprised to see Qi Yun. Qi Yun walked over to Xing Zhongwan and greeted him.

 

The man said, “Nice to meet you. For the people brought by sir [/mfn]referring to Qi Yun[/mfn], their seats have already been accounted for downstairs.”

 

Qi Yun’s bodyguard has been following Xing Zhongwan’s car. Qi Yun was afraid that Xing Zhongwan would be unhappy but he didn’t expect the man to say, “Young master ordered that your people will also have their meals here. Please come in together.”

 

Qi Yun looked at Xing Zhongwan, who had a calm face, as he made a gesture to the bodyguard who got out of the car behind.

 

Xing Zhongwan leaned on the man’s shoulder and walked in, “Is the business going well recently?” I asked you to go to country X with me before since I couldn’t find anyone to help me run the business without you there. I wasn’t happy at all.”

 

The man raised his head and laughed, “Young master, you are the one who’s amazing. This grandpa is too old to move.”

 

Qi Yun looked at the two people who were close in front of him as he smoothed out his tangled eyebrows.

 

The secretary who followed behind him came up, “You have an important meeting in the afternoon.”

 

Qi Yun looked at his watch and walked into the small building without answering.

 

The secretary smiled when he saw Qi Yun’s back. Nothing was important apart from the young madam.

 

The small building looked simple, but the interior inside was special. There was a big stage in the middle of the first floor, and several cubicles upstairs. Xing Zhongwan sat in the box and drank a sip of tea as he breathed a sigh of relief, “This used to be a theater, but it was turned into a private restaurant. The owner of this shop was an old chef who has been with my grandfather for many years. This authentic Jiangnan cuisine should be very delicious.”

 

Qi Yun took a sip of the tea from the tea bowl, which was elegant from the very first glance. “It tastes very similar to the tea from the old teahouse in Jiangnan.”

 

Xing Zhongwan wanted to say how did you know, before he remembered why he almost spit out the tea he had just imported from Xiaozhu every year. There was a knock on the door, and the wooden door opened. An old man with gray hair came in with a dish. When he saw Xing Zhongwan, he was so excited that he wanted to bend over and kowtow. Xing Zhongwan hurriedly stood up to go support him, “Oi, what are you doing? It’s been so many years that this old set of rules has been abandoned.” The soft Jiangnan accent in the words made Qi Yun stunned for a moment. Since the reunion, he has never spoken to him in this tone of voice again. Turns out that he was just biased.

 

The old man said a few words to Xing Zhongwan before looking at Qi Yun. For a moment, he recognized who he was and there was a flash of clarity in his cloudy eyes.

 

“Master, you and Mr. Qi should eat slowly. I won’t disturb you.”

 

Xing Zhongwan escorted the old man out and then opened the beaded curtain on one side before looking down from there to view the entire stage.

 

Xing Zhongwan took the wine bottle on the table, “Homemade Bayberry wine. Do you want some?”

 

Qi Yun wanted to take the wine bottle when Xing Zhongwan quickly withdrew his hand, “I forgot that you are still injured.”

 

He smiled and poured himself a small cup, “Tough luck.”

 

After a sip, Xing Zhongwan narrowed his eyes excitedly, “Oh, that’s the taste.”

 

The plump lips were stained with red liquid, making it even more gorgeous. Qi Yun turned his face away, picked up the chopsticks and put a shrimp in his mouth. It was very sweet and delicious.

 

Xing Zhongwan was not as reserved as Qi Yun and opened half of the beggar chicken with curved eyebrows and eyes. His playful eyes were full of satisfaction.

 

Qi Yun didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, “Eat less of that and eat more vegetables.” He handed a small towel on the table to Xing Zhongwan. Xing Zhongwan took it and wiped his hands rudely.

 

“As a matter of fact, I’m just an ordinary person who likes to eat and sleep. It’s just that my face is good-looking. But Qi Yun, you can still find someone who looks better than me and treats you well. Xing Zhongwan was just someone who extended his hand to help you when you were most vulnerable and I am not without selfishness either. I did it in order to repay some kindness and also move my mother’s grave. We just take what we need. If you want to say that you have some special feelings for me because of my kindness to you during that period, then I can only say that I am very sorry. The general election is about to come, even if the people of X country have accepted same-sex marriage and passed the legislation, not everyone will accept this kind of union, let alone in this country. You have worked hard for so many years and you are about to succeed. A little scandal can ruin you. You should know this better than me. Don’t give up everything for a fling from previous years. It is not worth it.”

 

Qi Yun didn’t know when he put down his chopsticks. The sweetness in his mouth turned into bitterness. This kind of bitterness penetrated into his heart little by little. It was very uncomfortable. It was not just Xing Zhongwan trying to persuade him to give up, it was also the reality. The situation was helpless and all Wanwan said was the truth.

 

Their beginnings were really not good. Even if they got along with each other at the beginning, in fact, now that he thought about it, he did not know Wanwan’s personality or identity from the beginning. If he didn’t stab him with a knife already, it was because he was still showing some courtesy due to their family relationship in the past.

 

The corner of Qi Yun’s mouth twitched bitterly, even interacting normally would be difficult, not to mention the unpleasant things that happened between them.

 

“I never thought I would fall in love with a man. To be exact I never thought I would fall in love with anyone.”

 

Xing Zhongwan lowered his shoulders and looked at Qi Yun calmly. Qi Yun raised his head and smiled at him. In that smile, there was no helplessness, only a simple smile.

 

Xing Zhongwan also smiled, “Qi Yun, you should smile more like this.You look so handsome when you smile like this.”

 

Qi Yun was stunned, Wanwan was the first and only person who said he looked good when he smiled.

 

“No one told me I look good when I smile. My mother said that my smile looks like one from the Shen family. She doesn’t like it. She doesn’t like me smiling in front of her.

 

Qi Yun pressed on his faintly painful wound. When he talked about Guan Yang, he only had peace in his heart, that woman was a mother to him by name only. 

 

“Wanwan, I know this kind of feeling is ridiculous. I didn’t believe you when you came to me at first. Who would give their heart to a useless paralyzed man? But you are too good to me, no one has ever treated me as well as you did.”

 

Qi Yun took a sip of water from the tea bowl on the table and said with a light expression, “Your kindness and your warmth are like an addictive drug to a person who has never felt love and warmth before. I wanted to understand your heart and learn what’s going on inside. How can you be so kind to a stranger? But after many tries, after letting myself be ensnared, I can’t get out.”

 

Xing Zhongwan’s eyes were reddish and he quickly looked away.

 

Qi Yun got up and walked in front of Xing Zhongwan, kneeling and looking at him quietly, “Wanwan, I owe you an apology. I lied to you because of my selfishness. I know you always wanted to leave, but I wanted you to stay. But how could I keep you? At that time, Qi Yun didn’t even have a healthy body. All I had in my hand was your pity for me. I didn’t tell you about the operation risks. It’s my fault. Shen Qinghong is right, I don’t know how to love someone, it’s not about possessing luck and it’s not an illusion. I shouldn’t have done that kind of thing to you. I can’t justify myself, because it’s just wrong. I hurt you so badly that you can’t forgive me. In the past five years, I have gradually come to understand that I am trying to learn how to love someone but it is too late, right? Trust and sincerity are the most difficult things to obtain. I know very well that if it is not by chance that I managed to meet you, you would’ve never let me see or find you again.”

 

Xing Zhongwan lowered his head and looked at Qi Yun’s reddened nose. The man who was about the same height as him knelt down humbly at his feet. Xing Zhongwan went to help him, Qi Yun wrapped Xing Zhongwan into his arms, “Wanwan, I just love you.” There was another sentence that Qi Yun did not dare say. He managed to hold on for many years because of him, thinking of the day they will meet in a certain corner of the world. Qi Yun wanted to become someone who was worthy of him.

 

He couldn’t say that because he can’t put pressure on Wanwan anymore.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s whole body froze, he didn’t know how many times he had held Qi Yun’s body from the very beginning. He watched him as he slowly grew more meat, watching him get better little by little.

 

Xing Zhongwan was stunned for a moment, before slowly wrapping his arms around Qi Yun’s back, “Qi Yun, to me, you are still the little fairy sister who held my hand in the hospital.”

 

He took a breath, “No matter what you look like, I will never forget the warm touch when you held my hand when I was a child. No matter how the outside world judges you, you will always hide a softness in your heart. Thank you for giving him to me. Qi Yun, you deserve all the best things, so treat Wanwan as a dream of yours.”

 

“Qi Yun, let’s be well and never see each other again.”

 

When Xing Zhongwan said this sentence, the body holding him trembled slightly. His neck was hot and damp. Qi Yun was crying…

 

Xing Zhongwan bit his lip and looked at the corner of the wall absentmindedly. After a long time, there was a soft ‘be well’ in his ear.

 

Xing Zhongwan couldn’t bear it any longer and there was a trace of teardrops on the dark floor.

 

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T/N: Man, I’m kind of sad… The next chapter is kinda heartbreaking too… but… I assure you this is a HE novel!! What is a little pain in the face of a lifetime of happiness?

 

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Chapter 18 – Only his beauty does not disappoint

 

Xing Zhongwan was irritable ever since he got in the car. His two secretaries have also been looking at him with a strange expression.

 

The cause of the incident was that No. 3 and No. 4, who came to look for him early in the morning, saw their boss lying in bed while someone who was supposedly having a fever, was sitting on the ground. When they came in, Qi Yun was looking at him and only whispered to them that they should let Xing Zhongwan sleep a while longer.

 

Of course, the beauty’s request will not be rejected, so they adjusted the meeting time. Xing Zhongwan didn’t wake up until after nine o’clock. The man who was looking at him with an affectionate expression had long since disappeared.

 

The two secretaries used unskilled Chinese to describe Qi Yun’s eyes looking at their boss. ‘He always had stars in his pure, maiden-like eyes, so it must be love.’

 

The more Xing Zhongwan thought about it, the angrier he became. “The two of you, enough is enough!”

 

No. 3 turned back from the passenger seat, “Boss, Mister Qi looks at you as if you will fly away if he is not careful.”

 

Xing Zhongwan: …

 

“He really likes you.” No. 3 summed up this sentence with a few Chinese words.

 

Xing Zhongwan looked at the dense files on the computer. Like him? What’s the point?

Will liking him be able to solve all the problems they faced?

 

“Notify all departments about the video conference at 9 pm.”

 

No. 3 responded with an ‘en’ before turning on her computer to start working.

 

Xing Zhongwan had been busy all day. After the video conference at 9 o’clock, it was already midnight. Rubbing his aching lower back, he leaned against the chair to relieve his tense nerves. It’s only been a week, but it seems like Zhong Gang can really bear the pressure. He knew what Xue Qing and the others were thinking. Xing Zhongwan understood it very well too. They wanted to give him some time to sort out his relationship with Qi Yun, but this was only their assumption. The matter between him and Qi Yun had been sorted out five years ago.

 

Xing Zhongwan asked No. 4 to drive him home. This was the fourth place he had moved to. There was no familiar figure downstairs and Xing Zhongwan breathed a sigh of relief.

 

The next morning, Xing Zhongwan followed Emma to the TV station to record a program. Xing Zhongwan wore a pair of large sunglasses to cover half of his face. He was also wearing a black and white iconic shirt of a certain brand, paired with high-waisted wide-legged pants of the same color, making him look 2.8m high, compared to his actual 1.86m.

 

Emma has always known about her boss’s dressing style. Xing Zhongwan has never known what it meant to be low-key. He has to look good and dress well. Most of his quotes are about how one cannot fall short on food and fashion.

 

Emma followed behind him with a computer and watched the swaying figure of her boss. Was her boss here to sign contracts with the new kids or was he here to sign himself in? Very few entertainment company bosses in the country are as public as he was. After all, this country’s culture is different. Country X’s culture has always been open, so Xing Zhongwan’s style of doing things has always been bold.

 

Xing Zhongwan walked halfway and suddenly looked back at Emma, ​​”10cm high heels?”

 

Emma nodded. Xing Zhongwan then told No.4 Emma’s shoe size, “Give her a pair of 5cm ones.”

 

Emma was puzzled, “Boss, the employee code stipulates that one must not wear high heels shorter than 10cm when going out with you.” 

 

Xing Zhongwan waved to her lazily, “I heard that you have to follow the audience for today’s recording. If your heels are too high, you will get tired easily. This is not the head office, so don’t worry about it so much.”

 

Emma’s heart was warm. Boss, you really mean it?! Aren’t you just a small ray of sunshine!

 

Sure enough, the producer of the show almost lost his mind when he saw Xing Zhongwan. In private he couldn’t help asking Emma if he was the newly signed artist and wanted to approach him to make the live announcement.

 

Emma didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, so she left him a meaningful sentence, “You can’t afford him. He’s our big boss.”

 

Qi Yun wanted to find Wanwan, but his fever didn’t go away and was ordered by the doctor to lie in bed and rest up. There was a TV interview today, so Qi Yun decided to pick Wanwan up after this interview. There were several buildings in the TV station, and some were linked by sheltered bridges in the middle. It happened that the elevator in the news building broke down, so the person in charge embarrassedly asked Qi Yun if he could cross the bridge from the other building to the entertainment department.

 

If Qi Yun didn’t speak, it could be considered that he agreed. He was in a good mood these days although he was still ignored by his Wanwan.

 

The person in charge of the entertainment department had already received the news and cleared the room. Qi Yun’s bodyguards were lined up on both sides as he walked in the middle followed by his secretary.

 

The floor connected to the bridge had the largest studio in the entire entertainment department. The entrance of the half-closed studio was surrounded by a few staff members who were excited. It was unknown what they were chattering about.

 

Just as the person in charge was about to reprimand them, Qi Yun waved his hand to indicate that it was okay. However, when he walked past them…

 

“He looks so handsome and beautiful.”

 

“How can you tell with those big sunglasses covering his face?”

 

“You… Didn’t you see the arch of his nose? It’s really good.”

 

“Which artist’s boss is he?”

 

“I heard that it’s an entertainment company invested in by Qingyuan Capital.”

 

“Wow, that’s a big company. Hey, isn’t their boss Zhong Gang?”

 

Qi Yun stopped and looked in through a small gap before he saw Xing Zhongwan, who was sitting by the door, yawning.

 

“Wow, he even looks good yawning. My legs are weak.”

 

The person in charge of the entertainment department couldn’t listen anymore and coughed twice.

 

Several staff members turned around and saw their boss’s and Qi Yun’s cold face. They almost knelt down in fright.

 

At this time, Xing Zhongwan was bored so he looked down at his phone. He then raised his head and stretched his neck for a while before yawning. His face under the big sunglasses was fair and radiant. Due to his mixed heritage, Xing Zhongwan had a constitution that prevented him from getting sunburned. He’s the kind that doesn’t need a lighting plate when shooting magazines and stands out a lot in a crowd.

 

Qi Yun looked constantly at his little movements and counted that he had yawned five or six times in a short period of time. He must be sleepy.

 

Qi Yun couldn’t help smiling. His stern face turning in a smile was like a light that dissipated all the chilly haze from before. The person in charge of the entertainment department became dumbfounded before his phone started ringing and someone from the news department called to ask if the V.I.P had arrived.

 

What could he reply? Should he say that Congressman Qi was standing at the entrance of the studio with a gentle smile on his face, so he could not continue escorting him because he did not have the courage to make him leave?

 

Qi Yun’s secretary whispered behind him, reminding him that he had to leave.

 

No. 3 told Xing Zhongwan that there would be a camera sweeping over, so he should smile. Xing Zhongwan resisted the urge to roll his eyes and looked ahead. His face appeared on the huge display screen in front of him. Xing Zhongwan pulled the corner of his mouth into a faint smile and the whole studio burst into flames.

 

Xing Zhongwan shrugged helplessly. What can be done? It’s not his fault that he looks too good, right?

 

His smile not only pleased the audience in the studio, but also stunned Qi Yun who was standing outside. Qi Yun’s heart was beating fast. It would be great if his Wanwan could smile at him. Just smiling at him, Wanwan became so lovable. It was this Wanwan that he wanted to hide away from the eyes of others.

 

Qi Yun’s face sank as the secretary asked him if he wanted to continue today’s visit.

 

Qi Yun was silent. The secretary understood and called the head of the news department to cancel the interview. The other end was worried because Qi Yun was not an easy person to make an appointment with. After he finally agreed to come over, there was an inconvenience caused by the broken elevator. However, luckily even though they said they wanted to cancel, they said they will make another appointment.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s completed his task, so after only taking a few shots, he wanted to return to the company office. Emma stared at him as he took No. 3 back with him. 

 

While walking out of the studio, Xing Zhongwan couldn’t help but stretch, “These children are no good. Just what kind of people did Zhong Gang’s choose?”

 

No. 3 has a dignified and glamorous expression, “It’s not the same as before. Nowadays, these types become very popular very quickly in China.”

 

Xing Zhongwan ‘tsk’-ed and when he turned around, he saw a row of people standing in the corridor. Qi Yun stood by the door and was watching him. Xing Zhongwan cursed inwardly, he somehow bumped into him everywhere.

 

“Wanwan, let’s go have dinner.”

 

Xing Zhongwan blinked twice as No. 3 looked at the schedule dutifully, “Boss, you have three hours to spare for lunch.”

 

At this time, don’t make a sound!

 

Xing Zhongwan didn’t want to waste time, “I don’t think we need to make an appointment.”

 

Qi Yun calmly said, “You said we can be ordinary friends, but can’t we have dinner as friends?”

 

Yes, he has indeed said this, and it was too late to regret it. Moreso, it seems he owes Qi Yun a favor.

 

Xing Zhongwan took the car key from No. 3 and said, “Let’s go.” He walked to the elevator entrance without turning his head. Qi Yun lowered his head and his eyelashes trembled slightly from joy, “Change my itinerary.”

 

His secretary was about to cry. If he changed the itinerary, they would be in trouble, but he dared not say that. After all, the happiness of his boss was also very important. They will have a better life if they manage to win the young madam back earlier.

 

No. 3 looked at the two men in front of her as Qi Yun followed carefully behind Xing Zhongwan. The slouchy proud one wearing long trousers and a lake blue coat looked like a flamboyant peac0ck, while the other who wore an elegant suit was indifferent like a proud swan. At first glance, these two people seemed incompatible and discordant, but they are both great beauties, aren’t they? Two mythical creatures together would be very pleasing to the eye, right? No, Mister Qi is a fairy, and as for the boss… he is probably a demon…

 

Although their big boss, who has always looked haughty and treated Mister Qi curtly in public, was actually the one who compromised a lot in private. Boss, are we about to have an in-law in the company?

 

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T/N: Flashy peac0ck vs proud swan… Who will win?

*Flashy peac0ck is angery.*

*Proud swan uses act pitiful.*

*Flashy peac0ck’s heart is deeply affected! It was super effective!*

 

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Chapter 17- We have no chance

 

Back at Qi Yun’s villa in the suburbs, Xing Zhongwan looked at the familiar building and hummed, “Sure enough, the hearts of people who are able to do great things are also filled with compassion.”

 

No. 3 got out of the car curtly and opened the door for her boss. Qi Yun’s secretary, who was sitting in the passenger seat, wanted to help his boss out of the car so he quickly hurried over but soon retracted his hand as he stood on the side of the car, unmoving.

 

Xing Zhongwan looked coldly at Qi Yun who was sitting in the car motionlessly, ignoring his secretary’s help, “Get out of the car by yourself or you can sleep in the car tonight.”

 

Apparently, after listening to Xing Zhongwan’s words, Qi Yun slowly lowered his head and got out of the car before looking at Xing Zhongwan with a melancholic expression. Xing Zhongwan ignored him, “And someone go get a driver to send me back.”

 

Qi Yun’s secretary smiled widely until his eyes almost disappeared, “Look at the time, isn’t it too late now? Why don’t you just rest here for the night?”

 

Xing Zhongwan was just about to refuse when No. 3 on the side pointed to his face, “Boss, your complexion is not very good, you should rest.”

 

Xing Zhongwan looked at Qi Yun who was about to speak, “Don’t say a word.”

 

No. 3 took her phone and looked at the itinerary carefully, “Boss, there will be a video conference at 6 o’clock tomorrow in the morning. I suggest that you sleep for 4 hours now. If you rush back, you won’t have time to rest tonight.”

 

Xing Zhongwan has a very thorough understanding of the principle that the body is a vital asset for capital gains. He followed it very thoroughly and pointed to Qi Yun’s secretary, “Lead the way.”

 

Because of the pain, Qi Yun pursed his pale lips, “Your room is still here.”

 

Xing Zhongwan obviously did not listen to him and looked at No. 3. He was not going to spare Qi Yun any looks.

 

Qi Yun looked at Xing Zhongwan’s unsympathetic back and couldn’t help laughing. His Wanwan’s temper was still so explosive.

 

The furnishings in the villa did not change much. The servant took No. 3 to the guest room on the first floor and Xing Zhongwan ordered her to send their location to No. 4 to pick them up early in the morning.

 

Xing Zhongwan massaged his sore neck. All the servants in this house had been replaced. Xing Zhongwan, who took a glass of water from the servant and wanted to drink it but suddenly stopped as some bad memories started flooding into his heart, Xing Zhongwan put the water glass on the table aside just as Qi Yun came in to see this scene. His footsteps stopped and his heart felt complicated. If some things were fundamentally wrong, they were wrong. No amount of apology will fix it. He personally destroyed Xing Zhongwan’s trust in him. Though, he doesn’t blame it on others, at least he wants a chance to make up for it.

 

When Xing Zhongwan turned around and saw Qi Yun looking at him at the door, he raised his eyebrows, “I thought you wouldn’t step into this place again. You shouldn’t have any good memories of this place. I didn’t expect you to still live here. Is it in order to always remind yourself of that time so you will never stop taking revenge on the ones who caused your suffering?”

 

Qi Yun’s heart ached when he heard it and he exhaled slowly, “You know the reason, Wanwan.”

 

Xing Zhongwan yawned, “I don’t know.”

 

Xing Zhongwan didn’t want to hear any nonsense about how he still lived here because of his past traces.

 

Xing Zhongwan was really tired so he turned and went up the stairs. Qi Yun took two steps forward but didn’t dare to hold him, “Wanwan, you understand what I mean. I won’t ask you to forgive me, but can you give me a chance to start over?”

 

Xing Zhongwan stopped and slowly turned his head back. Under the bright light of the villa, his chiseled facial features were so beautiful and it made others tremble.

 

“Another chance? What sort of second chance do you want? As the youngest speaker and the most popular candidate in this election, towards the heir to the largest royal media group of country X. Where did this chance between you and me come from? Qi Yun, I don’t like men and it’s the same for you. Even if it is possible, our family history showed that we could barely be in an amicable friendship. Let’s not even consider the rest.”

 

Qi Yun looked down at his hands that were shaking slightly, “Wanwan, do you still remember when we were in Jiangnan and what you said?” 

 

His wound hurts a lot, but it didn’t compare to this heartache.

 

What Xing Zhongwan said was simply true, Qi Yun couldn’t think of any words to refute him. The obstacles standing between him and Wanwan were just too much. But even so, he could still find a way to solve all those difficulties. What he couldn’t control was his heart that was filled with Wanwan.

 

Xing Zhongwan put his hands on the back of his neck. The handrails of the stairs have been renovated. It would be nice if people’s memory could also be reset.

 

“I don’t even want to think about you, let alone what I just mentioned. That’s it, good night.”

 

Xing Zhongwas went towards his room and the footsteps disappeared. Qi Yun raised his head. His face was so somber and no one could tell what he was thinking.

 

The secretary tried to persuade him to rest early as Qi Yun stared at the stairs in a daze until his legs became numb. He then said, “Isn’t he kind?”

 

It took a while for the secretary to understand that he was talking about Xing Zhongwan, “He has a prominent family background, but is not pretentious. He is popular for participating charities and has established several charitable funds. Although he is very fierce to you every time, he isn’t malicious. The young madam…he’s really kind.”

 

“I really love him, no matter what his status is. Just become normal friends? With our identities, I’m afraid even being ordinary friends will bring us criticism. Don’t look at him when he’s being mean to me, you haven’t seen him when he’s really angry. That’s when he is really scary. Sometimes I really miss those days when I was disabled. When I didn’t have a healthy body, he was always by my side. Those days, I was not the current Qi Yun, and he was not the current Xing Zhongwan.”

 

Qi Yun held his forehead. He was dizzy after many days of fatigue. He didn’t mean to pretend to be pitiful in front of Xing Zhongwan, it’s just that his body that had been under so much pressure and was tired for so many years really couldn’t hold it anymore.

 

Xing Zhongwan opened the door to the room on the second floor. The guest room has not changed at all. He opened the cabinet and there were a few sets of his clothes inside. Xing Zhongwan walked to the window. Even five years later, the scenery outside the window was still so desolate.

 

The heating in the room was fully turned on, but Xing Zhongwan still felt a little cold. He couldn’t remember the first time he stepped into this room. He raised his head and looked at the yellowed ceiling. Those workers were really careless in doing things. They’ve renovated every room but this one. His eyes suddenly stopped at Qi Yun’s room upstairs.

 

Xing Zhongwan had always slept well. Although he resented the unexpected overnight stay, his easy-going personality allowed him to fall asleep quickly. If it wasn’t for the sudden loud noise from upstairs… Xing Zhongwan got up from the bed in annoyance when it sounded again. Was someone upstairs trying to demolish the house? Zhongwan was completely awake. Was everyone in this villa dead? Did nobody go upstairs to check out why it was so loud?

 

Xing Zhongwan opened the door angrily and went up the stairs only to see a few servants standing at the front of the stairs but not wanting to go inside. Xing Zhongwan frowned, “What are you all doing? Is it productive to just stand on the stairs?

 

An older woman dressed like a housekeeper said, “Master won’t let us into his room.”

 

Xing Zhongwan snorted, this damned habit of his. He was not about to bother with it, but before he had time to turn around and go downstairs, there was another loud noise. Xing Zhongwan turned around and strode over to open the door. Sure enough, it was Qi Yun who had fallen to the ground and he was struggling to get up.

 

Xing Zhongwan helped him to stand up and saw that there was blood on his beige clothes. He was frightened and immediately lifted it. There was blood oozing out of the bandages. He quickly helped the person to the bed and lifted the gauze bandages. Luckily the stitches weren’t torn open. If this needed to be re-stitched again, Xing Zhongwan felt that the doctor would really chew Qi Yun out.

 

He looked around at the books and chairs that were tossed up all over the place. There were also open files and computers on the desk. It was obvious that this person had been working late.

 

Xing Zhongwan rubbed his temples, which were aching from lack of sleep and excessive fright, “Do you not want your life anymore?”

 

Qi Yun felt distressed, “Did I wake you up? I got a little dizzy and fell, but I couldn’t get up all of a sudden…”

 

Xing Zhongwan touched his forehead, “You have a fever.”

 

Qi Yun was stunned, but involuntarily put his hand on the back of Xing Zhongwan’s hand, “It’s okay.” Xing Zhongwan pulled away and walked to the door to tell a maid to call a doctor.

 

He then leaned against the door and crossed his arms on his chest before looking around the room that he used to be very familiar with. There were no major changes, just an extra desk. His eyes swept across the wall opposite the window and a framed marriage application made Xing Zhongwan’s eyes widen. He walked over slowly. Qi Yun, what are you doing? You even framed this kind of thing and hung it on the wall? Aren’t you afraid of it being seen? Or are you too confident that it will not be used as a newspaper headline?

 

“I never once considered it to be fake.” Qi Yun’s soft words came from behind. Xing Zhongwan turned around as the pale man smiled at him. Qi Yun’s very beautiful appearance made Xing Zhongwan freeze on the spot. It was as if someone was playing drums in his head.

 

Qi Yun had a fever, but fortunately it was not too severe so he only needed to take some paracetamol. He was still anxiously looking at Xing Zhongwan. Xing Zhongwan was indecisive, he didn’t know whether to leave or stay.

 

In particular, Qi Yun’s secretary also revealed to him that Qi Yun’s insomnia was very serious and he has not slept well for a long time.

 

The hopefulness in his eyes seemed to tell him that he was better than any other sleeping pill.

 

Xing Zhongwan had no choice but to pull up a chair and sit beside Qi Yun’s bed. He couldn’t sit still. How should he go about this? He simply picked up a book from Qi Yun’s bookshelf and looked at it a bit, yawning while reading the pages. He was really tired.

 

He looked at the book as Qi Yun looked at him. “Go back to sleep, I’ll be fine.”

 

Xing Zhongwan was too lazy to pay attention to him. Do you think I can’t hear the sad tone in your voice? If I really go back, you’ll be pissed off in bed all by yourself. If I leave now, everyone all over the villa will look at me with a desperate expression as if I have abused you. I shouldn’t have come back with you!

 

Xing Zhongwan looked at the book as his mind became drowsier and he quickly fell asleep with the book and his back on the chair.

 

Qi Yun quietly got up, moved him to the bed and covered him with the quilt.

 

He watched him beside the bed for a long time as Xing Zhongwan was asleep. Qi Yun then stretched out his hand and carefully traced his face.

 

He didn’t dare to get on the bed, but he didn’t want to leave.

 

When Xing Zhongwan was awake, he never showed a good expression towards him. His gentle and peaceful appearance was only available while he was asleep. This fact made Qi Yun’s restless heart sink further.

 

Holding Xing Zhongwan’s hand, Qi Yun sat on the floor next to the bed and leaned against his pillow before closing his eyes and falling asleep.

 

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T/N: Last chapter of volume 2 is 33, so we’re halfway there! Wahoo~

 

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Chapter 16 – Follow the shadows

 

Xing Zhongwan slept for sometime before waking up at four in the evening. As he yawned and stretched, the blanket on his body slipped to the ground.

 

Xing Zhongwan glanced at the hospital bed but there was no one there. After being confused for a while, he called Zhong Gang’s secretary and asked her to come to the hospital to pick him up.

 

He got up and rubbed his head before putting away the computer. He then opened the door of the ward and walked out. After passing the nurse’s desk, he saw some news being broadcasted on the opposite LCD screen. The sullen man within the TV stood calmly as he shook hands with the visiting foreign representative. Xing Zhongwan stopped and watched for a while, his eyes drifting to Qi Yun’s abdomen inadvertently before quickly leaving the nurse’s desk with a snort.

 

Xing Zhongwan’s secretaries had just arrived at Zhong Gang’s office. No. 3 and No. 4 dragged their two small suitcases and respectfully greeted their boss, Xing Zhongwan.

 

Xing Zhongwan looked at them and nodded with satisfaction. There were finally two people who were pleasant to the eyes. No. 3 and No. 4 were twins who were responsible for the affairs of the entertainment department of the group. They were 175cm tall and both had long thighs. Their faces were the reason why Xing Zhongwan originally chose them and they have worked for him for more than ten years.     

 

Xing Zhongwan yawned and pointed to Emma who also just received the news, “You can pass them your work. If you have any questions, just summarize it for me and I will go to the meeting.”

 

No. 3 and No. 4 efficiently took out their computers from the suitcases behind them and looked at Emma. Emma chuckled, “Those from the head office seem cordial.”

 

Xing Zhongwan laid down on the sofa beside him, put on a blindfold and started to catch up on his sleep. The image of Qi Yun on the TV kept flashing in his mind. The person who was hunched over immediately stood up straight just for him while going to the toilet. Did the wound hurt? He sure liked to pretend to be pitiful in front of him while also pretending to be stoic in front of others. The more Xing Zhongwan thought about it, the more unhappy he became. He raised his leg and kicked the sofa heavily. The sound was so loud that the three women at the desk stopped their work and looked over.

 

Soon, the group of three simultaneously agreed: If you value your life, stay away from the boss.

 

Qi Yun was changing his clothes in the lounge. His shirt was soaked in sweat from the pain and the bandage was damp. The accompanying doctor handed Qi Yun some painkillers and replaced the gauze with a new, dry one.

 

The secretary helped Qi Yun put on his suit. Qi Yun raised his arms and frowned deeply from the pain of the wound, but did not say a word.

 

“You better return and rest. It’s not good that the wound is inflamed.” Qi Yun swallowed the painkillers and stretched out his hand to tap on his abdomen, “Call Wanwan, I want to have dinner with him tonight.” 

 

The secretary paused in surprise. He really did not dare to contact the young madam for a date.

 

“Go reserve a table.” Qi Yun adjusted his tie, prepared to go out.

 

“It’s better for you to ask for a date yourself in person.” The secretary was about to cry. Why was he always making it hard for him? He had mixed feelings every time he accepted his salary.

 

Qi Yun didn’t look back, “If I asked for a date myself, would I still have any use for you to make appointments for me?” 

 

The bodyguard opened the door of the lounge and Qi Yun walked out. The secretary collapsed instantly, he should really know his own place.

 

Xing Zhongwan was woken up by the phone after sleeping for more than an hour. He grasped around and found the phone after a long time before answering it impatiently.

 

“Young madam, I take care of an elderly person and a few kids. My youngest daughter is less than two months old. I can’t lose this job. I know you are a good person and you will definitely not turn a blind eye to another’s impending death. I will send a car to pick you up to go to the revolving restaurant on the 18th floor of Shanghai Building at 8:00 p.m. Young madam, I will pray and offer you a tablet of longevity to repay your kindness.”

 

The moment the call was done, the secretary let out a sigh and wiped sweat from his forehead. His assistant on the side was stunned for a long time before he said, “You’re not married, are you?”

 

The secretary glared at him, “What do you know?” 

 

The assistant looked bewildered…

 

Xing Zhongwan had a sleeping mask over his forehead and his mind was still occupied with the longevity tablets after he was inexplicably issued a ‘good person’ card.

 

Asking him out to dinner? Who was it? Who else could it be? Qi Yun, this son of a bitch!

 

Xing Zhongwan put one foot on the sofa, “Laozi, who wants to eat with you?!”

 

The three women at the desk turned around at the same time before quickly turning back to continue working. The trio came up with another line of thought: The boss is crazy, retreat quickly!

 

Qi Yun was stopped by someone when he was about to get into the car. Old General Chen was upset, “Why are you being so difficult?”

 

Qi Yun retracted his foot and stepped out of the car before speaking expressionlessly, “If the general acts too arrogantly, I’m afraid it will cause trouble for you in the future.”

 

General Chen’s forehead twitched, even if he acted arrogantly, it was his own business. Qi Yun was the one overstepping his boundaries!

 

“Qi Yun, I advise that it’s better for young people like you to be sharper.”

 

Qi Yun stretched out his hand to the secretary and the secretary handed a file to him.

 

Qi Yun handed the documents to General Chen, “You are an elder I have always respected.”

 

General Chen took the documents, “What is this?”

 

He opened the bag and glanced at it. His expression changed quickly and he immediately stuffed its contents back.

 

“Someone has done a lot of things with the Chen family’s name. If they were to be implicated in the future…” 

 

General Chen’s face was ashen, “It was because of my poor discipline.”

 

“This time it will be Qi Yun that has overstepped his boundaries. The Chen family has always been on good terms with the Shen family. My grandmother and you went to school together, so I truly respect you as a grown-up.” Qi Yun spoke calmly.

 

General Chen looked at the cold man in front of him. He couldn’t refute what Qi Yun had said. He could only suppress the anger in his stomach.

 

“I caught wind of a rumour that you’re doing all this for a man… Qi Yun, you said that our families have been friends for a long time. Now at this critical moment of the general election, even the slightest unfavorable rumor will affect the final result. You have to think about this clearly.”

 

The general turned and got into the car in the front. Qi Yun watched the car leave before turning around and entering his own car. Think clearly? He had already thought about it very clearly five years ago.

 

He said to the driver in front, “Go to Qingyuan Building.” 

 

The secretary said, “I have already sent someone to pick him up.”

 

Qi Yun raised his hand to check the time, “No, I will pick him up in person.”

 

Of course Xing Zhongwan was not obediently waiting for that unexpected date. He couldn’t even choose where to eat, so he took his two secretaries who had never been to this country for a big meal. Walking to the door of the building, Xing Zhongwan yawned indifferently. He was growing so old that he couldn’t remember how long he slept for during the day after staying up all night. As soon as his front foot stepped out of the door, he quickly retracted it. As a multinational investment company, although the 56th floor was Qingyuan’s top floor and did not compare to the head office, the front entrance was still quite elegant. There was a big fountain in front of the building, which was rated as a landmark attraction of the year previously. However, there were currently many bodyguards lined up beside the rows of cars on the main road in front of them, causing many passers-by to constantly gawk at them.

 

Xing Zhongwan pulled down his sunglasses and the corners of his mouth started twitching. What was all of this for? Those who didn’t know better, they would’ve thought that there was going to be a funeral with so many cars following closely.

 

The two secretaries behind him looked at each other and their first reaction was, “Boss, do you need us to call the police?”

 

Xing Zhongwan snorted, it was useless to call the police here.

 

The door of the car in the middle opened as Qi Yun got out of the car wearing a light gray coat. He looked at him with a smile, “I’m here to pick you up for dinner.”

 

Xing Zhongwan gulped and held his breath, possibly wanting to curse. The two secretaries behind him were very interested in the man who called out to their boss.

 

Handsome people were always likable, especially one with this kind of unworldly passion. Even if they could not spend their life with this person, he was still a pleasure to watch.

 

The handsome man in front walked up to their boss, but after looking at the boss’s face… No. 3 and No. 4 took two steps back. It was better to keep a distance.

 

“I’m not eating.” Xing Zhongwan didn’t even think twice.

 

“Meals must be eaten.” Qi Yun had a good temper.

 

“After looking at you, I have no appetite!” Xing Zhongwan gritted his teeth.

 

“Then I won’t let you see me. I’ll find a place where you can’t see me while you eat.” Qi Yun raised his hand to touch Xing Zhongwan’s face which was a little haggard.

 

Xing Zhongwan slapped it away and the two secretaries behind who heard the sound also felt their hands hurting.

 

The back of Qi Yun’s hand immediately turned red and Xing Zhongwan said without any emotion, “You pervert!”

 

The secretary behind him took two steps back. Their boss was furious and looked like he was at a rating of hundred in terms of anger.

 

Xing Zhongwan was impatient, “Are you two behind me stupid? Why don’t you go and drive the car here quickly!” 

 

The two secretaries holding their briefcases came forward to stand beside him. Qi Yun’s beautiful brows instantly wrinkled as his secretary behind him looked away. The two secretaries were so damn good-looking. With that figure, they could be supermodels.

 

Xing Zhongwan pulled down his sunglasses and pointed at him, “What are you looking at? You have an elderly person and kids to take care of? My daughter was born less than two months ago, huh!?  If you dare to look at my secretaries again, I will gouge your eyes out.”

 

The face of Qi Yun’s secretary turned red as Qi Yun gave him a cold look. He shuddered. Why are you glaring at me, it was not easy for me to get a date for you with the young madam…

 

No. 3 and No. 4 stepped away with their high-heeled shoes and walked to the basement. Xing Zhongwan narrowed his eyes at Qi Yun, “You’re all really similar, all full of lies!”

 

Qi Yun sighed, “I just wanted to invite you to dinner, I don’t know what he said to you.”

 

“It doesn’t matter!” Xing Zhongwan pushed him away. Qi Yun groaned as his wound was hit. Xing Zhongwan saw Qi Yun clutching his lower abdomen and a thin layer of sweat covered his forehead. 

 

It shouldn’t be so coincidental, right? Xing Zhongwan was speechless.

 

“Boss, why are you here?” A passing female voice made Xing Zhongwan look up. His unhappy face suddenly turned into a bright smile, “Eh, why are you here too?”

 

This obvious change made Qi Yun unable to bear it. He looked back at the woman approaching them from not far away. She was not young, but her sense of style made it hard for others to forget her.

 

The woman glanced at Qi Yun and a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes, “Why are you here too?”

 

She looked at Xing Zhongwan. Did you two know each other? As if he had found his savior, Xing Zhongwan hurriedly pulled the unknown woman aside, “Come, come. Long time no see, I’ll invite you to dinner, let’s go.”

 

Looking at the two figures being intimate and getting farther and farther away from him, his face became dark.

 

“So you’ve been looking for a lawyer recently?”

 

Xing Zhongwan tilted the glass in his hand while looking at the woman in front of him who had delicate makeup, but even that was unable to hide her tiredness.

 

“I want to obtain custody of my daughter, but you know my ex-husband. Even good and powerful lawyers dare not take my case. I have no choice but to ask Zhong Dong for help.”

 

Xing Zhongwan put down the glass and said, “That year, when you wanted to marry him, I already tried persuading you. With someone of his identity, your marriage will be difficult. You are registered for marriage in China and the divorce lawsuit can only be fought here. If a good lawyer dare not take your case, your ex-husband must have put pressure on them. It’ll be all good if it were in country X, but the lawyers in country X can’t fight the cases here. But sister Ming, don’t worry. I have a solution.”

 

Xie Ming was the first idol to work and develop the branch of their entertainment company in this country. The female star was more than ten years older than Xing Zhongwan, but the two always had a good relationship. Later, Xie Ming married and retired, but Xing Zhongwan always allowed her studio to continue working with the branch.

 

“If you want to come back, you’re welcome anytime.”

 

Xie Ming’s eyes were red, “I really don’t know how to thank you, boss. I want to go back to my daughter without thinking about the rest. I want to take her back to country X and I want to continue acting. Although it may be difficult, I don’t want to give up.”

 

Xing Zhongwan smiled, “It’s alright, I’ll help you. I said the same when you left, that you are welcome back at any time.”

 

Not far away from the two, Qi Yun sat down in the corner as he finally breathed a sigh of relief. It turned out that it was not the kind of relationship he had thought. Looking closely at the woman, Qi Yun had some memories of her. They had met once at a dinner party. Did she want to file a lawsuit? Thinking of the other party’s ex-husband, Qi Yun remembered that the man was a skilled professional in the industry and was indeed not an easy party to deal with.

 

After talking about her matters, Xie Ming relaxed a little, “Boss, you and Qi Yun know each other?”

 

Xing Zhongwan almost snorted coldly while biting the steak in his mouth, but held back, “I guess I do.” 

 

Xie Ming lowered her voice, “It’s better to have less contact with Qi Yun. The boss may not be aware of the fact, but only a few people in China dare cross him. Moreover, the rumors about his private life are also very bad.” Xie Ming’s words were vague, but even fools could see that Qi Yun was interested in him.

 

After dinner, Xing Zhongwan ordered No. 4 to take Xie Ming home. He took No. 3 out of the restaurant, and sure enough, Qi Yun was already waiting at the elevator entrance.

 

Someone as smart as No. 3 has long been aware that this man was interested in her boss, but her boss looked at him like he was looking at the god of plague…

 

Xing Zhongwan put one of his hands in the pockets of his down jacket and pointed to Qi Yun, “You never stop. Don’t make me angry.”

 

Qi Yun held a hand warmer and handed it to him, “It’s cold outside, you should take a hand warmer.” 

 

No. 3 looked at the yellow duck pattern hand warmer in Qi Yun’s hand and almost laughed. Xing Zhongwan’s eyes narrowed so much that they were going to cramp up. He threw the hand warmer at Qi Yun. It was only a coincidence that this cute little duck landed on Qi Yun’s wound. Xing Zhongwan used so much strength this time that he saw blood oozing out of his white shirt. Qi Yun’s secretary gasped. Xing Zhongwan thought, I couldn’t be that unfortunate, right?

 

The wound was delicate and swollen after the afternoon meeting. It was agitated by Xing Zhongwan and now it was finally hit by the hand warmer again. They ended up going to the hospital again for Qi Yun’s wound to be re-stitched.

 

When he came out of the outpatient operating room, Qi Yun’s face was pale and he was in pain. As soon as the doctor saw Xing Zhongwan, he slapped his forehead and said, “How did you take care of the patient? You don’t want this injury to heal, is it? The next time it is torn open again, you won’t need to come to the hospital again.”

 

Xing Zhongwan said in his heart, Is it all my fault? Qi Yun, this guy, is he also relying on me to fight for his future?

 

The most annoying thing was that even his own secretary said that he was being too rough. Boss, he is injured, can’t you treat him a little better?

 

As if I give a fart about treating a patient well.

 

Xing Zhong turned around angrily and left. Qi Yun clutched his stomach and quickly followed. Xing Zhongwan turned his head back, his eyes were red with anger, “What the hell are you trying to do? You’ll be happy if I bring harm to your name, right?”

 

“I…” Qi Yun wanted to explain, but a sharp pain from the wound hit him after walking too quickly. His body, which had been holding on for the whole day, could not withstand it anymore and his legs went soft. He fell towards Xing Zhongwan who had no choice but to stretch out his hand to support him. He looked back and around. Was no one going to step forward to help move Qi Yun away? I’m going to leave, what are the many bodyguards of the Qi family doing?

 

Qi Yun leaned against Xing Zhongwan and said, “Wanwan, it hurts.”

 

Xing Zhongwan thought, Your pain has nothing to do with me. It would be best if you felt more pain.

 

No. 3 drawled, “Boss, you have to take responsibility. You beat someone till their blood came out.”

 

Xing Zhongwan shouted, “Whatever I do, I’m the most innocent.”

 

The most innocent Xing Zhongwan finally sent Qi Yun home. Because no one dared to touch Qi Yun, he kept himself buried in Xing Zhongwan’s embrace while groaning in pain. The doctors and nurses all looked at Qi Yun with sympathy before looking at Xing Zhongwan with a look of blame.

 

Xing Zhongwan couldn’t bear it anymore. Holding onto Qi Yun’s shoulder, he whispered lowly, “I must’ve really owed you in my last life. Get up and walk properly.”

 

Qi Yun turned his head and looked at Xing Zhongwan’s brows, which were particularly furrowed because of his unwillingness and endured his urge of wanting to kiss it, “I want to eat shredded chicken porridge.”

 

Xing Zhongwan shouted, “I’ll send you to heaven to eat!”

 

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T/N: Insert ‘another one’ meme here

 

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