Month: February 2025 (Page 1 of 4)

Side Story 2 – Counterattack

       After returning, Minran thrived in his familiar environment, effortlessly navigating social circles and making connections—he was in high spirits. With some of the burden and pressure lifted from Chu Yichen’s shoulders, he, too, felt much more at ease and content. Having more time to rest meant that Chu Yunhan was also happy. The only one not entirely pleased was Shen Mo, who had to switch to a dual-city routine so that he could fly over to meet his lover when he had time.

       That afternoon, Chu Yunhan and Chu Minran swam together. While chatting by the pool, Chu Yunhan couldn’t help but ask, “Between you and Shen Mo, which one of you usually is the top?”

       Minran, towel-drying his hair, replied casually, “Depends on who has the energy that day.”

       Chu Yunhan’s eyes widened, and he said, “You two take turns?”

       “Yeah.” Minran smiled, “What about you guys? Is Chen ge always on top?”

       Embarrassed, Chu Yunhan mumbled, “Yeah.”

       “Eldest brother, haven’t you thought about doing counterattack?” Minran blinked, “Do you want my help?”

       “…No.”

       “You really don’t want to? I have a good idea here. Just picture it—the way you pin Chen ge under you, that scene… tsk tsk…”

       “…What do you have in mind?”

 

       Chu Yunhan finally couldn’t help but ask.

       For someone as clever as Chu Yichen, the more intricate the trap, the harder it was to ensnare him. In that case, it was better to go for something straightforward and blunt—just dig a pit right in front of him and see if he fell in.

       The trap was a bet on a chess game. Chu Minran played against Shen Mo, with Chu Yunhan proposing a wager to Chu Yichen: the loser would agree to fulfil one request from the winner. As long as Chu Yichen agreed, it meant he had fallen into the trap because no matter which side he bet on, that side would intentionally lose.

       On a weekend afternoon, the three conspired and colluded to lure Chu Yichen into the trap. The man remained composed as he watched Shen Mo, the side he had bet on, lose the game. Turning to Chu Yunhan, he said, “A bet’s a bet. What do you want me to do?”

       As soon as Chu Yunhan succeeded, his face lit up with excitement, and he could hardly hide the smile on his lips. He leaned into Chu Yichen’s ear and whispered, “Let me be your dom tonight.”

       The man’s eyes swept from Chu Minran, who was pretending to be nonchalant, to Shen Mo, who was pretending to look at the scenery, and then back to Chu Yunhan, who looked expectant. He chuckled and said, “Okay.”

       Unexpectedly, he agreed so readily. Chu Yunhan was very happy all afternoon. After dinner, he sneaked into the conditioning room to play with the tools. While selecting, he thought about how Chu Yichen looked wearing these things. His heart felt like fireworks were setting off, one after another, and it was so beautiful. When Chu Yichen came in, he was walking around excitedly holding a riding crop.

       The man was wearing a long nightgown, his hair was slightly wet, and he still had the refreshing fragrance of shower gel. He had obviously taken a bath.

       Chu Yunhan suddenly became nervous, coughed dryly, and said, “Take off your clothes.”

       Chu Yichen looked at him deeply and took off his bathrobe, revealing his naked body. It was a well-proportioned and ample body, but there were many terrible scars on the chest, waist and abdomen, which were deep into the flesh and were indelible.

       Chu Yichen was rarely naked in front of him. Even if he were naked, he would dim the lights or cover his eyes. Chu Yunhan understood that the other party did not want him to feel guilty because of this.

       At this moment, he was facing these scars clearly, and he felt as if he had been stabbed in the heart. Immediately, he forgot what he was going to do next and didn’t come back to his senses until Chu Yichen spoke.

       “Master, don’t you need me to do anything?”

       Chu Yunhan pursed his lips and said, “Who allowed you to speak? Come here and kneel.”

       The man walked over obediently. He knelt down slowly in front of him, spread his knees to shoulder width, put his hands behind his back, straightened his upper body, raised his head slightly and looked at him, revealing the beautiful curve of his neck, and said word by word, “I was wrong, Master.”

       Looking at Chu Yichen like this, Chu Yunhan suddenly felt that his throat was a little dry, and his whole body seemed to be getting warm.

       Chu Yunhan took a black collar and fastened it around Chu Yichen’s neck, raised the other person’s chin with his hand and said, “Tell me your identity.”

       “I am your slave. I only belong to you, my Master.” The man’s black eyes were like a deep pool or like a dark night—deep and calm, firmly attracting people’s attention.

       Chu Yunhan’s heartbeat was speeding up, and there seemed to be tiny ripples in his agitated body. He continued, “Tell me your rights.”

       “I give you all my rights with both hands, along with my body, without reservation, my Master.” Chu Yichen’s answer broke away from the formulaic rules and had an elegant poetic quality, like a whispered song that stirred the heart.

       Chu Yunhan managed to calm down and said, “Tell me your obligations.”

       “Making you happy is what I want to do most in my life. No matter what you ask for, I will try my best to satisfy you; no matter how you want to treat me, I will be happy; no matter where you go, I will do my best to follow. You are my only master.”

       Chu Yunhan’s face turned red completely. He found that there was no need to use any tools at all. Just the fact that Chu Yichen was kneeling in front of him and saying these words to him almost made him unable to control himself. The fatal attraction exuded by this man could completely arouse his desire, like an instinct that had been engraved in his life.

       “Sit on the sofa.” He turned his face awkwardly to the side, avoiding Chu Yichen’s gaze. He then said, “Masturbate for me to see.”

       Chu Yichen complied without hesitation and even took the initiative to open his legs wide, completely exposing his most private parts to the other party’s sight, allowing Chu Yunhan to see his every move.

       Chu Yichen’s right hand was playing around with his c0ck. It was a hand that often practised holding a gun, leaving some thin calluses on its knuckles. When that hand touched the skin, there was a slightly rough feeling, especially when caressing the c0ck, with just the right intensity. He sometimes moved faster and sometimes slower…

       Chu Yunhan felt like he was about to smoke. He was obviously watching the other party masturbating, but it seemed like the person he was touching was himself. Every inch of his body seemed to feel the touch of that hand, and his lower body slowly swelled.

       Time fermented everything.

       Chu Yichen’s breathing became rapid, mixed with some light gasping, and the speed of his hands became faster and faster, but those black eyes kept staring at him closely, without moving even half an inch.

       “…Don’t cum.” When the man was about to climax, Chu Yunhan tapped the hand with the riding crop and said.

       Hearing this, Chu Yichen stopped abruptly. His whole body was in a tense state, and he couldn’t help but pant. The darkness in his eyes became insoluble ink, and the corners of his eyes were slightly moist.

       That look was really sexy and provocative.

       After Chu Yunhan said, “You are not allowed to cum without my order,” he half-knelt down between the man’s legs, lowered his head and gently licked the top of the already swollen c0ck with the tip of his tongue. Such direct stimulation made Chu Yichen unable to restrain himself from humming. He raised his neck and leaned on the back of the sofa, gasping for breath.

       Chu Yunhan lay between the man’s legs, licking it like a puppy, even holding the glans in his mouth in a playful manner, and rubbing the edge of the groove with his teeth.

       Chu Yichen clutched the armrest of the sofa tightly, breathing heavily as if he were drowning. There was mist in his eyes, and his voice was made deeper by lust, “Master…”

       “Want to cum?” Chu Yunhan used his soft tongue to lick off the clear liquid pouring out of the tip, looked at the other person with a smile, and said, “Beg me.”

       The man’s thin lips parted, he looked at him and said, “Please, let me cum.”

       “No.” He chuckled, stood up and sat on Chu Yichen’s lap. While playing with the poor c0ck with suppressed desire, he said, “Slave, kiss me.”

       Almost the next second after the command came out, his lips were kissed. The man drove straight in, entangled his tongue, and licked every inch of his mouth. He was kissing back, grinding against each other so passionately that even their lips were numb.

       When their lips and tongue parted, Chu Yunhan gave the next command, “Take off your clothes for me.”

       Chu Yichen’s movements were very quick and rough. He tore Chu Yunhan’s pyjamas open in one go, and the buttons fell off and fell to an unknown place.

       “Who allowed you to pull it directly…” He pinched the other person’s nipples hard.

       The man grunted, with a faint smile in his eyes, and said, “I was wrong, Master, please… forgive me.”

       Chu Yunhan was wearing nothing under his pyjamas. They were both naked at this moment, and their bodies were extremely hot, especially the areas where they were pressed together seemed to be on fire.

       Chu Yunhan stroked the scars on Chu Yichen’s body bit by bit, feeling the other person’s tight muscles and hot chest. Finally, he leaned over and whispered into the man’s ear, “Slave, hold me.”

       Chu Yichen was slightly stunned for a moment and said, “Won’t Master think about it again? I just expanded mine; you can use it directly.”

       He bit the man on the shoulder and said viciously, “Who allowed you to speak? Now you are my slave. Be obedient to me. Otherwise, I will tie you to the torture rack and beat your bird until it can’t get hard.”

       Chu Yichen had a gentle smile on his face and said, “Yes. I was wrong, Master.”

       Next, the slight coolness of the lubricant was warmed by the body, and the flexing and stretching fingers gradually opened his hole. The familiar feeling made Chu Yunhan feel at ease and comfortable. He didn’t want to use those tools anymore. Firstly, because he was inexperienced and could easily injure the other party; secondly, because standing before Chu Yichen, he simply couldn’t bring himself to do so.

       He no longer wanted to counterattack anymore. The current state was good, and both he and the other party could get the ultimate pleasure. More importantly, he realised that whatever way the two of them were together, it was a willingness on both sides.

       “Pleasing you is the most important thing I want to do in this life.”

       This statement came from the heart.

       This what was his thought was. And so was Chu Yichen. 

 

       As Chu Yunhan’s emotions overturned, he was jolted by the big c0ck that penetrated deep inside his body. He hugged Chu Yichen, and with a whimper, he said the words that he had been hiding in his heart for a long time.

       “Yichen, I love you…”

       The man froze for a moment, and the arms holding him suddenly tightened, and each thrust became more ferocious as if the man was going to break him.

       “Slow down… Ngh… It’s too deep…” Chu Yunhan cried out and heard Chu Yichen’s deep and pleasant voice at the same time as he came out.

       “You are the only person I have ever loved in this life, and you are the person I will always love in the future.”

       Let us continue entangled like this, in the name of love, never to part. 


T/N:
That’s it! Book 3 is over! Finally!
It’s been quite a journey but I finally can start book 4 and upload it in NU, lmao
I have nothing much to comment for this book because personally it wasn’t my favourite…
But please look forward to the Book 4 about Pharaoh!


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Chapter 68 – I went shopping with my brother. 

Chapter 68 – I went shopping with my brother. 

In response to Zhao Qi’s puzzled gaze, Xiao Shiqing calmed down slightly and couldn’t help but chuckle. “What’s been up with you lately? Every time something related to the Little Emperor comes up, you lose your usual composure. Could it be that you’re influenced unintentionally by being around him so much?”

 

Zhao Qi tilted his head at him. “Brother?”

 

“Nothing.” Xiao Shiqing glanced at the flower in Zhao Qi’s hand that hadn’t been fully torn apart. “Do you like it?”

 

“Oh, I don’t know who sent it, just left it at the door.” Zhao Qi tore off the last petal, silently saying “not interested” to himself, and casually tossed the bare stem into the trash. “Seeing pretty flowers does lift my mood.”

 

Xiao Shiqing remarked, “It’s quite ugly.”

 

Zhao Qi scratched his head. “I think it’s okay?”

 

Sitting opposite Zhao Qi, Xiao Shiqing continued, “The Emperor’s belly seems to have gotten a bit bigger again.”

 

Zhao Qi covered his face. “Brother, please stop.” Since he started showing, his belly had visibly grown day by day, while the rest of his body hardly gained any weight. To keep this from becoming common knowledge, he rarely left the palace now—though everyone who knew could throw a big mahjong party.

 

Xiao Shiqing smirked slightly. “Looks like the little princess is thriving in the Emperor’s belly.”

 

Resting his chin on the newly moved table, Zhao Qi sighed. “Yeah, she kicks me even when there’s nothing going on.”

 

Xiao Shiqing thought for a moment. “Stand up.”

 

“What does Brother want?” Zhao Qi stood up straight, belly protruding. Xiao Shiqing lightly patted it. “There.”

 

“?”

 

“I talked to her, told her to behave and kick you less.”

 

Zhao Qi burst into laughter. “Are you trying to fool me like I’m a fool?”

 

Xiao Shiqing nodded. “Yes.”

 

Zhao Qi’s smile gradually faded, his expression blank. “So, I’ve always been a fool in Prime Minister’s eyes.”

 

Xiao Shiqing replied meaningfully, “Even if you were a fool, many would still vie for you.”

 

“…Huh?”

 

Xiao Shiqing took Zhao Qi’s hand, helped him sit down, and casually remarked, “Li Chisu wants you.”

 

“Oh?!”

 

“He Changzhou also likes you.”

 

“…I know.”

 

Xiao Shiqing’s tone took on a hint of bitterness. “In the past, you favored Rong Tang as well.”

 

“Yeah.”

 

Xiao Shiqing looked at Zhao Qi with meaning. “So, what are your thoughts? These three, in talent and appearance, are rare in the world,” Xiao Shiqing said slowly. “Are you really unmoved?”

 

Without hesitation, Zhao Qi replied, “Completely unmoved.”

 

Xiao Shiqing’s eyes flashed with a hint of amusement. “Is that so? What if they don’t demand your whole heart, just that you acknowledge them in your eyes, even if they come after others in your heart?”

 

“That’s easy!” Zhao Qi banged the table. “I’ll appoint Rong Tang as Virtuous Consort, He Changzhou as Honorable Consort 1HCZ has a pretty high title, almost below ‘Empress’ and RT has a pretty high ranking title too, though not as high as HCZ, as for Li Chisu… I still don’t want.”

 

“Heh.”

 

Facing Xiao Shiqing’s hellishly cold gaze, Zhao Qi’s survival instinct kicked in. He quickly said, “Brother, did you really think I’d say that? You’re mistaken! I feel guilty toward Rong Tang, see He Changzhou as a brother, and as for Li Chisu, I don’t even want him even if he’s given to me for free.”

 

Xiao Shiqing’s expression softened slightly. He sipped his tea and calmly said, “Then what about me? What do you consider me?”

 

Zhao Qi hesitated for a moment, unable to find a fitting description for Xiao Shiqing’s place in his heart.

 

Did he treat Xiao Shiqing as a brother? No, though he called him “Brother” out of necessity to curry favor, he couldn’t easily change the habit. True brotherly affection should be like him and Zhao Qiao. Saying he treated Xiao Shiqing as a brother would be a lie even he himself wouldn’t believe.

 

Were they in a lord-subject relationship? Almost there, but which lord-subject pair could compare to them?

 

Did he consider Xiao Shiqing as a father to his child? As a lover, a friend? This wouldn’t hold up either. Even now, whenever he recalled those sporadic scenes from that night, he wanted to buy a brain that didn’t remember anything at a high price.

 

“Aren’t we just sworn brothers?” Zhao Qi ventured.

 

Xiao Shiqing chuckled. “So brothers end up in bed together and then, result in a big belly. Enlightening.”

 

Zhao Qi was speechless for a moment and couldn’t help but complain, “Brother came to see me late at night just to ask these boring questions?”

 

“Not only.” Xiao Shiqing smiled mysteriously. “I came to discuss state affairs with the Emperor.”

 

“In that case, speak.”

 

“Didn’t the Emperor forget? When we discuss state affairs, we go to bed.”

 

“…”

 

The two lay side by side in bed, and Xiao Shiqing briefly explained the situation in Jiangxia.

 

The disaster had been barely contained, and the number of displaced people in Jiangxia wouldn’t increase for the time being. However, how to settle the homeless victims was still a problem. Houses were flooded, and the displaced were exposed to the elements, hungry and susceptible to epidemics from congregating in one place for too long.

 

“But this matter can be entrusted to Pang Dai,” Xiao Shiqing said. “As a county magistrate, he shouldn’t rely on the court for everything. So, once the rain stops, I’ll take you back to the capital.”

 

“We’re going back to the capital already?” Zhao Qi exclaimed in surprise. “But we haven’t visited many places yet.”

 

Turning to his side, Xiao Shiqing touched his belly. “How can you go anywhere like this?”

 

“…Alright.”

 

“And there’s one more thing. The perennial flooding along the Huai River banks is a chronic problem. If not thoroughly resolved, the treasury will struggle, hindering future campaigns in the northwest.”

 

Thinking of something, Zhao Qi said, “Li Chisu mentioned knowing a water management expert living in the outskirts of Jiangxia City. I’ve already ordered him to invite the person.”

 

Xiao Shiqing nodded. “If I’m not mistaken, he mentioned a water expert named Yu Chen Shui, secluded in the outskirts of Jiangxia, renowned locally for his expertise in hydrology and water management.”

 

Zhao Qi turned over and faced Xiao Shiqing, asking, “Brother, do you know him?”

 

“Yeah, I’ve heard people recommend Yu Chenshui several times. I even sent people to invite him to serve in court twice. The first time, he refused due to illness; the second time, he disappeared without a trace. He’s said to wander the world and only return to Jiangxia once in a year or so. Li Chisu may not even be able to meet him.”

 

“Let him give it a try,” Zhao Qi yawned, rubbing his eyes, “It’s such a waste if such a talented person is unwilling to serve the court.”

 

“Mm.” Xiao Shiqing reached out and pulled Zhao Qi into his arms. “Go to sleep.”

 

Zhao Qi buried his head against Xiao Shiqing’s chest and asked, “Brother, should I change positions?”

 

“Why?”

 

“Sleeping like this, my stomach presses against you.”

 

“I don’t mind being pressed by you.”

 

“…Alright.”

 

The next day, the rain that had been falling for several days finally stopped. The dark clouds dispersed, the sun hung high, and Zhao Qi’s mood improved considerably.

 

Cheng Boyan and Meichuan came to check his pulse together. Cheng Boyan said, “The Dragon’s Egg in Your Majesty’s belly is slightly larger than usual fetuses at the same stage. There’s a risk of difficult labor when the time comes.”

 

Zhao Qi was stunned, “Is that true? Should I eat less?”

 

“Watching your diet is one aspect. Also, walking more regularly will help with natural childbirth.”

 

“Oh, okay.” Zhao Qi took out a notebook to jot down notes but stopped halfway through. Wait, he hasn’t decided to give birth to this Dragon’s Egg yet, why am I taking notes?

 

Meichuan said, “I also have a good plan to make childbirth easier for Your Majesty.”

 

“Meichuan, please tell me.”

 

Meichuan took out a brocade box and presented it to Zhao Qi. “Your Majesty, please have a look.”

 

“What is this?” Zhao Qi opened the box to find a crystal-clear, long, slightly thick and round-headed…

 

With a snap, Zhao Qi closed the wooden box, blushing. “Meichuan, you’ll be punished by my anti-p0rnography team for bringing out such things.”

 

“Your Majesty misunderstands, this is for your own good,” Meichuan said seriously, “This item, made of warm jade, when placed inside, has the effect of expanding and massaging the birth canal…”

 

What? Birth canal? What does that mean? Isn’t he supposed to have a cesarean section? Could it be…

 

Zhao Qi realized something and his whole body trembled.

 

No, he didn’t accept it!

 

“I don’t want this Dragon’s Egg anymore!!!”

 

Cheng Boyan glanced at Meichuan, frowned imperceptibly, and hesitated to speak.

 

Jiang Dehai, with a motherly heart, quietly put away the brocade box and reminded, “Your Majesty, lower your voice, what if the Prime Minister hears…”

 

“Let him hear it!” Zhao Qi angrily said, “Who caused me to be like this!”

 

Jiang Dehai advised, “If this really helps Your Majesty’s future childbirth, you can ask the Prime Minister for help.”

 

Zhao Qi widened his eyes, “Are you crazy or am I crazy?”

 

“What do you want me to do?”

 

Zhao Qi: “…”

 

Xiao Shiqing walked in, his gaze sweeping over everyone present, finally resting on Zhao Qi. “Your Majesty?”

 

Zhao Qi forced a smile, “Cheng Boyan said that walking more helps with childbirth, so I want the Prime Minister to take me out for a walk.”

 

Xiao Shiqing turned to Cheng Boyan, “Is it true?”

 

Cheng Boyan repeatedly affirmed it.

 

Since arriving in Jiangxia, the young emperor basically stayed in the inn and didn’t go anywhere, feeling quite bored. Moreover, his belly could still barely be seen now, but once it grew bigger, he wouldn’t be able to go anywhere. Thinking of this, Xiao Shiqing said, “Then change your clothes.”

 

“Oh?!” The surprise came too suddenly.

 

To avoid causing a stir, the two changed into casual clothes and went out with a few attendants.

 

After the rain, the air cleared up significantly. The common people who had been confined at home came out to buy things, making Jiangxia lively again after a long time.

 

Walking beside Xiao Shiqing, Zhao Qi couldn’t help but feel a bit captivated by his profile. He suddenly remembered that this seemed to be the first time he and Xiao Shiqing had gone out together among the people.

 

Today, Xiao Shiqing wore a dark single garment, his eyes deep as a pool, with an imposing manner even when concealed. Perhaps only he in this world could be described as “luxurious”. Thinking that his Dragon’s Egg in his belly had half of Xiao Shiqing’s genes, Zhao Qi felt it would be a shame not to give birth to it.

 

“What are you looking at?” Xiao Shiqing asked.

 

Zhao Qi guiltily withdrew his gaze, “Nothing, just looking around. There’s something interesting on that stall, Brother, shall we take a look?”

 

Xiao Shiqing nodded, “Sure.”

 

The vendor, seeing their attire, knew they were important guests and greeted them warmly, “Dear sirs, please feel free to browse. Everything here is of good quality and fair price, no deception…”

 

To ease his embarrassment from licking his lips just now, Zhao Qi pretended to look carefully. Most of the items on the stall were cheap trinkets, similar to what he had seen in a two-dollar store before. After scanning a few eyes, he lost interest and turned to Xiao Shiqing, “There’s nothing I want to buy. Brother, what about you…”

 

Only to see Xiao Shiqing standing in front of the stall, looking down at an object, lost in thought.

 

Following his gaze, Zhao Qi saw it was a bright red, rustic-looking tiger-headed hat specially made for children.

 

Not used to such aesthetics, Zhao Qi said, “…Don’t think about putting this kind of thing on our daughter, thanks.”


T/N: There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

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Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

 

Chapter 32

       Jiang Tongyan actually really wanted to persuade Qian Xiaoke to throw away those things that would definitely be useless in the future. Keeping them only took up space—what was the point?

       However, he couldn’t find a good reason to make him throw them away. Should he just bluntly say he was renting the place and wouldn’t kick him out? That would be ridiculous!  

       “Alright, you’re really something.” Jiang Tongyan hoisted the rolled-up bedding, tied with a rope, onto his shoulder. “Anything else? If not, let’s get going.”  

       He was waiting to touch it.  

       Qian Xiaoke grabbed a suitcase in each hand, turned around to look at Jiang Tongyan, and laughed so hard he nearly fell backward. “You look like a migrant worker coming into the city right now, and one that doesn’t even know how to do anything!”  

       “…Can you talk less?” Whatever little unspoken feelings Jiang Tongyan had were instantly shattered the moment Qian Xiaoke opened his mouth.  

       “For real, hahahaha!” Qian Xiaoke laughed like a big goose. “You’re hilarious!”  

       “Alright then, since you think I’m funny, I won’t carry this for you.” With that, Jiang Tongyan pretended to put it down.  

       “Hey!” Qian Xiaoke quickly set down his own suitcases, ran over, and put the bedding back on Jiang Tongyan’s shoulder. “I won’t say it anymore. You’re the most handsome!”  

       A wise person doesn’t suffer immediate losses—since someone was helping him, Qian Xiaoke was, of course, going to behave.  

       As the two of them carried their luggage out, they happened to run into the guy who lived in the partitioned room, whose occupation was unclear. Another person was following behind him, and it was obvious what they were here for.  

       Seeing Qian Xiaoke moving out just like that, the guy sighed with envy, “Having a partner is so nice. I’m afraid I’ll never have that in this lifetime.”  

       Qian Xiaoke was startled and quickly clarified, “No! There’s nothing between us!”  

       The other party just smiled, said no more, and took the stranger back into his room to go about their business.  

       Jiang Tongyan, who had gone out first, didn’t hear their conversation and was waiting outside, urging him, “Qian Xiaoke! Hurry up! We still have things to do later!”  

       Feeling wronged by the misunderstanding, Qian Xiaoke pouted as he walked out.  

       Jiang Tongyan asked, “Now what? Who upset you this time?”  

       “You,” Qian Xiaoke replied. “What kind of eyesight does that guy have? How did he even see us as a couple?”  

       The moment he said that, in the dimly lit corridor, the tips of Jiang Tongyan’s ears secretly turned red.  

       Jiang Tongyan asked, “What… exactly did he say?”  

       As he asked, his tone even carried the tiniest hint of shyness.  

       But Qian Xiaoke was too dense to notice.  

       “Why are you so curious about this?” This time, it was Qian Xiaoke’s turn to rush him. “Hurry up, hurry up! Didn’t you say you had things to do later?”  

       As Jiang Tongyan was pushed to go downstairs, he thought: I do have things to do later, but so do you!  

       Just like that, with Jiang Tongyan’s ‘enthusiasm’ and ‘help’, Qian Xiaoke successfully moved into a brand-new and beautiful studio apartment.  

       This was Jiang Tongyan’s first time coming here. Before Cheng Sen rented out these two units for him, he had shown him photos and videos. Originally, Jiang Tongyan had wanted to come check it out in person, but work kept him too busy to leave, and he hadn’t even gotten the keys yet.  

       But that was fine—he hadn’t gotten the keys before, but now he was here.

       The residential complex was nice—Jiang Tongyan was quite satisfied.  

       The building was nice—Jiang Tongyan was fairly satisfied.  

       When they got off the elevator, they saw that each floor had only two apartments, meaning this entire floor had only the two of them as neighbours—just the two of them, uniquely paired.  

       Jiang Tongyan was extremely satisfied.  

       “What are you smiling about?” Qian Xiaoke asked curiously while unlocking the door.  

       “Nothing,” Jiang Tongyan said. “I was just thinking—Cheng Sen really is a good boss, setting you up with such a decent apartment.”

       “Yeah!” The moment this topic came up, Qian Xiaoke’s eyes lit up. “Chairman Cheng is really such a good person!”  

       Jiang Tongyan sneered inwardly: What a joke! The real good person is standing right in front of you!  

       Of course, he absolutely couldn’t let Qian Xiaoke know that he was the one renting this apartment, nor could he let her find out that their company didn’t actually have any “Outstanding Employee Awards”—this was a ‘love’ reward.  

       Otherwise, how embarrassing would that be? Where would Jiang Tongyan put his face?  

       Jiang Tongyan was a proud man. Even when he wanted to do something nice for someone, he had to go through eight hundred detours just to make sure they wouldn’t find out.  

       Who knew what he was even trying to achieve?  

       Once inside, Qian Xiaoke was beyond excited as he enthusiastically introduced his new home to Jiang Tongyan.  

       The living room—”This sofa is so soft! So comfy!” Qian Xiaoke said. “And there’s even a TV! I tested it—it works!”  

       The bedroom—”Look at this bedding set! It has a rabbit pattern!” Qian Xiaoke said. “And the bed is super soft too! Kinda like the one in that hotel you stayed at before!”  

       The kitchen—”This is my favourite part! I can finally cook for myself!”  

       Jiang Tongyan asked, “You can cook?”  

       “Of course! I’m great at cooking,” Qian Xiaoke declared. “It’s just that the kitchen in my old shared apartment was too inconvenient which affected my performance.”  

       Hearing this, Jiang Tongyan was somewhat impressed. So, Qian Xiaoke wasn’t a completely useless idiot after all.  

       “What can you cook?” Jiang Tongyan set down the bedding from his shoulder and looked at him with a smile. “Tell me.”  

       He was already prepared to hear a list of impressive dishes. Instead, Qian Xiaoke replied, “Braised beef noodles, pickled mustard noodles, chicken and mushroom noodles, spicy braised beef noodles…”  

       “…Hold on.” Jiang Tongyan was full of question marks. “Why do these all sound so familiar?”  

       “You know Master Kong?” Qian Xiaoke grinned. “That’s my personal master chef.”  

       Jiang Tongyan rolled his eyes so hard they nearly hit the ceiling. Without a word, he reached out and flicked Qian Xiaoke’s forehead.

       “Cut it out,” Jiang Tongyan warned. “If you don’t start talking properly, I’m going to—”

       “Huh? What?” Qian Xiaoke picked up the bedding, ready to stuff it into the wardrobe.  

       Looking at his innocent, clueless expression, Jiang Tongyan couldn’t even bring himself to finish the threat.  

       Ah, man… Soft-hearted is your name.  

       Jiang Tongyan was moved by his own tenderness and was touched by himself in that very moment.  

       Qian Xiaoke saw him spacing out, ignored him and carried the heavy bedding into the bedroom on his own.  

       Jiang Tongyan followed, glancing at the bedding set—it was actually quite nice.  

       That was something he had specifically asked Cheng Sen to take care of. Not just the new bedding set, but new properly sized blankets and pillows had all been prepared. He was worried that if Qian Xiaoke moved in, he might end up sleeping on his old mattress, which was probably infested with god-knows-how-many dust mites.  

       Watching Qian Xiaoke busying around, Jiang Tongyan asked, “Have you eaten dinner?”  

       “Nope.” Qian Xiaoke answered while unpacking. “After work, I came here to clean up first, then went back to move my stuff.”  

       He looked up. “What about you?”  

       For a split second, Jiang Tongyan felt… almost flattered. This kid actually cared about him!  

       “I’m hungry.” Jiang Tongyan said. “What should we do?”  

       Qian Xiaoke glanced at him, then rummaged through a suitcase and pulled out two packs of Master Kong braised beef noodles.  

       “I can make you some instant noodles?” Qian Xiaoke offered. “But they got crushed just now.”  

       As he spoke, he vigorously shook the instant noodles in his hand, and it rustled. Judging by the sound, they were probably crushed to bits.  

       “…You eat it yourself.” Jiang Tongyan sulked and sat to the side. He wanted real food.

       After watching Qian Xiaoke for a while, he asked, “Do you know how to order delivery?”  

       Qian Xiaoke continued organising his stuff. “What kind of question is that? Who doesn’t? I’m not an idiot!”  

       Jiang Tongyan suddenly felt targeted.  

       “I don’t know how.” He said with a straight face. “I’m from abroad. I don’t know how—so what?”  

       Qian Xiaoke could’ve used this golden opportunity to tease him, but considering how Jiang Tongyan had helped him move today, he figured he should at least be nice to him just for today.  

       He smiled. “It’s fine. That’s… kind of cute.”

       Qian Xiaoke was hungry too, but normally, he would have just skipped the meal, gone to bed early, and saved the money.  

       He saved money and lost weight—what a win-win situation.  

       But today was different. Jiang Tongyan was here, and he had helped him move. He should show some appreciation.  

       Qian Xiaoke might be broke, but he wasn’t clueless about basic social etiquette.  

       “I’ll order takeout,” Qian Xiaoke said. “You helped me move, so dinner’s on me.”  

       Jiang Tongyan was instantly delighted.  

       He loved being treated by Qian Xiaoke, though he rarely got the chance.  

       A penny-pincher willing to spend? This was a once-in-a-millennium miracle!  

       “Alright, you said it,” Jiang Tongyan grinned. “What are we having? Spicy hotpot or snail rice noodles?”  

       Sitting cross-legged on the soft carpet, Qian Xiaoke opened the takeout app.  

       “Let’s try something new,” he said. “I know you like those, but we can’t eat the same thing all the time.”

       He scrolled through the options, then suddenly smiled. “Okay, I know.”  

       He placed the order in record time, then put his phone down and continued unpacking.  

       “What did you get?” Jiang Tongyan asked.  

       By now, he had some faith in Qian Xiaoke’s food choices—after all, the spicy hotpot, barbecue, and snail rice noodles he’d introduced him to had all been pretty good.  

       “It won’t be fun anymore if I tell you,” Qian Xiaoke said. “it’s something you’ve never had before anyway.”  

       Jiang Tongyan immediately felt a surge of anticipation.  

       As they waited, he joined in on organising the apartment. Under Qian Xiaoke’s directions, he obediently placed manga books here and set the alarm clock there.  

       The two of them got along surprisingly well, almost like a couple moving in together for the first time.  

       Of course, that was just Jiang Tongyan secretly entertaining himself with the thought. He would never say it out loud. To give Qian Xiaoke ammo to make fun of him? No way.

       Jiang Tongyan had a plan. He was going to win Qian Xiaoke over with his charm—make him fall helplessly in love, and then when he finally came running with a teary-eyed confession, Jiang Tongyan would ‘graciously’ accept.  

       That would be dignified.  

       There was no way he’d be the one to say: Uh, so, I kinda like you… wanna date?  

       Absolutely not.  

       For one, his pride wouldn’t allow it. And second… every time he’d confessed to someone in the past, without exception, they had all ended up falling for Shen Huiming instead.  

       It was a curse.  

       Even though life had been going well lately, Jiang Tongyan hadn’t forgotten about that particular misfortune.  

       Fate had burned him before—he wasn’t about to take that risk again. He had learned to be cautious.  

       By the time they finished unpacking, the doorbell rang. Their takeout had arrived.  

       Jiang Tongyan was excited—only to nearly have his soul *blasted* out of his body the moment he opened the door.  

       “Qian Xiaoke! What the hell did you order?!” The stench was even stronger than snail rice noodles. “Did you order actual shit?!”  

       Qian Xiaoke jogged over, happily took the food from the startled delivery guy, and politely thanked him before shutting the door.  

       “Hey, what are you yelling for!? You’re scaring the delivery guy!”  

       As he opened the takeout bag, Jiang Tongyan had already jumped ten meters away.  

       Qian Xiaoke grinned. “It’s stinky tofu! This place is the most authentic one—it’s delicious. Seriously, you should try it!”


T/N:
So actually the real raw censored Master Kong(a noodle brand) for some reason, so when Qian Xiaoke said, “Braised beef noodles, pickled mustard noodles, chicken and mushroom noodles, spicy braised beef noodles…”
Those are actually the instant noodle flavours instead.
I might be wrong for this one, because the raw literally just gave me □□ and I only found what’s censored by combing through the chapter’s comments. Fingers crossed, it’s really talking about Master Kong…


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Chapter 96

       The light in the kitchen was not too bright, but the orange hue was warm and peaceful. The glass windows were covered with a layer of mist, and the two people’s figures were reflected on them with only a hazy outline.

       Pei Qing handed the washed bowl to Zhan Weiyang, who rinsed it with clean water and then put it in the drain pan.

       The boring work was no longer boring because the two people divided the work and cooperated.

       The sound of the TV kept coming from the living room. Although only four people were in the spacious house, it seemed lively because of the joyful atmosphere on TV.

       After washing the bowl, Pei Qing stood before the sink to wash his hands. He pressed the hand sanitiser into his palms and said to Zhan Weiyang, “Open your hands.”

       Zhan Weiyang obediently put his hands together and spread his palms. Pei Qing turned around and put a lot of hand sanitiser in his hand on his palms, then turned around and continued to wash his hands.

       Zhan Weiyang’s hands were wet and slippery, and he rubbed them seriously before he got under the faucet.

       After washing his hands, Pei Qing said to Zhan Weiyang, “Let’s go and watch too.” He walked in front and turned off the kitchen light when he reached the door.

       The kitchen fell into darkness instantly, with only light coming in from the door.

       Zhan Weiyang ran two steps from the darkness and rushed to Pei Qing. Pei Qing reached out and hugged him, lowered his head and kissed his lips.

       Anyway, no one could see it, so they kissed carefree. Then, Pei Qing took Zhan Weiyang’s hand and walked to the living room.

       Pei Qing was actually very tired. He had been working overtime yesterday and started busying himself in the kitchen early this morning, with almost no rest.

       His income at the time was not low compared to his peers, but saving money was still challenging. He had his own plans, not only to break free from Pei Jingrong’s control but also to be able to provide a good life for Zhan Weiyang through his own efforts.

       When they came over, Zhan Pengcheng leaned back on the sofa. His eyes fell on the hands held by Pei Qing and Zhan Weiyang, and he changed his posture unnaturally, turning his head to continue looking at the TV.

       Pei Qing and Zhan Weiyang sat down.

       Zhan Weiguang leaned against the armrest of the sofa, watching the gala, and spoke dismissively about a female singer who was performing.

       Zhan Pengcheng was not interested in young female singers but preferred to see some familiar skit actors. He drank hot tea from a teacup and talked about the New Year when he was a child. It seemed that the New Year was more lively and interesting then, but it was much quieter now.

       Zhan Weiyang recalled that he also felt that the New Year was more lively when he was a child, but Zhan Pengcheng didn’t think so then.

       So, was it that New Year’s celebrations in the past were more vibrant, or was it just that children’s New Year’s celebrations felt more exciting? Zhan Weiyang pondered this for a while but couldn’t find an answer. He turned to look at Pei Qing and found that Pei Qing had already fallen asleep, leaning on the sofa.

       Neither Zhan Pengcheng nor Zhan Weiguang noticed.

       Zhan Weiyang quietly moved his body closer to Pei Qing and listened to his sleeping breathing beside him.

       After an unknown amount of time, Pei Qing was awakened by the TV sound. He quietly held Zhan Weiyang’s hand. Zhan Weiyang looked at him and hooked his fingers with his.

       Before twelve o’clock, Zhan Pengcheng yawned all the time. Later, he said, “You guys can watch it yourself. I’m going to bed first.”

       When Zhan Pengcheng went upstairs, Zhan Weiguang was still lying on the sofa’s armrest. He watched the boring gala for a while and then secretly went to see Pei Qing and Zhan Weiyang.

       At this time, Zhan Weiyang leaned on Pei Qing’s shoulder, looking up and smiling at Pei Qing. Pei Qing lowered his head and listened to him patiently with a faint smile on his lips.

       Zhan Weiguang felt an indescribable discomfort in his heart. He pretended to stretch and said, “It’s not good. I’m going to bed too.”

       Zhan Weiyang asked him, “Aren’t you waiting until twelve o’clock?”

       Zhan Weiguang said coldly, “What’s the point.” After that, he really walked upstairs.

       Zhan Weiyang looked up at Pei Qing again.

       Pei Qing lowered her head, rubbed her nose against his forehead, and asked him, “Are you still watching?”

       Zhan Weiyang wanted to say that he was still watching, but he felt that Pei Qing was already very sleepy, so he said, “Let’s not watch it anymore.”

       Pei Qing nodded, “Then go to bed.”

       They turned off the TV and walked up the stairs to the second floor together.

       Pei Qing walked behind him. He was really tired. He had just taken a short nap on the sofa, which didn’t completely relieve his fatigue. His steps were a little unstable.

       Zhan Weiyang jumped upstairs. When he reached the second floor, he felt a cool breeze blowing from the balcony. He looked up and found that the door was open a crack. It might be that Zhan Pengcheng didn’t pay attention when he closed the door just now, and the door was not completely closed.

       He walked over to close the door, and at the same time looked up. He suddenly found that it was snowing outside.

       “Wow—” Zhan Weiyang raised his hand and pushed the door open, then turned his head and looked at Pei Qing blankly, saying, “It’s snowing.”

       The cold wind blew towards Pei Qing, and the whole person woke up. He walked behind Zhan Weiyang, looked outside with him, and said, “It’s really snowing.”

       Zhan Weiyang walked out of the house excitedly. Pei Qing did not stop him; he just stood at the door and looked at him, saying, “Be careful not to catch a cold.”

       Zhan Weiyang caught some snowflakes with his palm, then looked at his fortune tree worriedly and asked, “Will my tree freeze to death?” He walked to the side of the fortune tree and subconsciously raised his hand to help it block the snowflakes.

       Pei Qing walked over, squatted opposite him, and said, “It shouldn’t.”

       But Zhan Weiyang was still very worried.

       Pei Qing actually didn’t know whether the fortune tree could withstand low temperatures. He said, “If not, we can move it in and move it out tomorrow when the snow stops.”

       Zhan Weiyang nodded.

       Together, they carried the fortune tree and the flowerpot inside the house. The tree was still the same small tree, but the flowerpot was quite heavy. When they put it down, Zhan Weiyang was slightly out of breath.

       Pei Qing stood up and asked him, “Do you want to play in the snow?”

       Zhan Weiyang smiled and shook his head, “No more.”

       Pei Qing stood by the door. When he reached out to close the door, he saw the snowflakes falling continuously. He couldn’t help but reach out his hand and saw a snowflake falling on his fingertips. He turned around and wiped the snowflake on Zhan Weiyang’s nose.

       Zhan Weiyang stood still and lowered his eyes to look at the snowflake on the tip of his nose. In fact, he could no longer see anything, only a little cool water stain.

       At this moment, the New Year’s bell rang.

       In fact, there were no bells ringing, no firecrackers, just a city immersed in silence welcoming its unique New Year’s pulse. It came from the television sets of other households and from a child on a balcony somewhere in the neighbourhood, who shouted, “Happy New Year!” followed by another voice exclaiming, “It’s snowing!”

       Pei Qing looked at Zhan Weiyang and said to him warmly, “Happy New Year.”

       Zhan Weiyang’s eyes sparkled, and he suddenly felt inspired and asked, “Can I make a wish?”

       Pei Qing said, “Yes, you can make a wish at any time.”

       Zhan Weiyang clasped his hands in front of his chest, closed his eyes seriously, and made a wish earnestly.

       When Zhan Weiyang finished making the wish, Pei Qing asked him, “What did you wish for?”

       Zhan Weiyang shook his head.

       Pei Qing asked again, “Is it different from your birthday wish?”

       Zhan Weiyang leaned close to his ear and whispered, “I’ve added one more thing. I hope Qing ge can make a lot of money.”

       Pei Qing said, “Are you starting to complain about Qing ge’s poverty?”

       Zhan Weiyang said, “No, I just think you are too tired. If you have a lot of money, you won’t be so tired in the future.”

       Pei Qing looked at him silently for a while, stretched out his hand to hug him, rested his chin on his shoulder, and said, “Let Qing ge lean on you for a while. Qing ge won’t be tired anymore.”

       Zhan Weiyang stretched out his hand to pat his back as if to comfort his emotions and said, “Actually, there is more.”

       Pei Qing whispered, “What?”

       Zhan Weiyang said, “I wish to be admitted to university, find a good job, and then make a lot of money with you, and you won’t be working too hard in the future.”

       Pei Qing said, “Thank you.”

       Zhan Weiyang replied shyly, “You’re welcome.”

       Pei Qing asked him, “Is there anything else you want to say to me?”

       Zhan Weiyang thought for a moment and said, “Happy New Year!”

       Pei Qing nodded and continued to look at him.

       Zhan Weiyang then said, “I can support you for the rest of your life.”

       Pei Qing smiled and said, “Okay.”

       Zhan Weiyang felt that this was probably not what Pei Qing wanted to hear. He was a little distressed. He racked his brains for a while and finally thought of it. He shouted, “I love you!”

       Pei Qing put his index finger on her lips and whispered, “Sh—”

       Zhan Weiyang covered his mouth, his eyes curved with laughter.

       At the same time, Zhan Weiguang, who stayed in the room upstairs, was lying on the bed playing with his phone and complained, “Annoying!” Then he pulled up the quilt to cover his head.

 

[The end of the story]


The author has something to say:
Is there an extra? I’ll have to think about it.
I’ve really written everything I wanted to write in this article. I don’t know what else to write about


Notes:
Despite the author saying this, there’s actually 3 extras, lol
Look forward to it


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Chapter 67 – I want to take a concubine?

Chapter 67 – I want to take a concubine?

Zhao Qi fell into deep thought.

 

To have or not to have children, that was the question. He could list plenty of reasons not to: it was an accident, fear of pain, fear of breastfeeding… But reasons to have a child? After pondering for a while, he could only think of two: first, it was a life; second, it was the child of him and Xiao Shiqing, and Xiao Shiqing wanted him to have it.

 

Unable to find an answer, Zhao Qi began seeking opinions from those in the know.

 

Jiang Dehai’s eyes sparkled, “This servant has always hoped to serve the little prince and princess, just like serving the emperor when he was young, making sure they are cute…”

 

Xiao Jinzi chimed in, “Me too!”

 

Mei Chuan said, “Your Majesty, you shouldn’t think too much about the pain of childbirth for men. It hurts, yes, but women endure it, so why can’t men?”

 

Cheng Boyan added, “Your servant will surely do his utmost to ensure the little prince and princess grow up healthy and safe.”

 

Zhao Qi raised a question, “Have you all been bribed by the Prime Minister?”

 

All four replied simultaneously, “No, we haven’t.”

 

Apart from these four, several others knew of Zhao Qi’s pregnancy. Fu Zi was needless to say, completely on Xiao Shiqing’s side; Li Chisu’s opinion Zhao Qi dismissed as insignificant; as for He Changzhou… he still fancied himself as the godfather of the dragon egg.

 

“Your Majesty? Your Majesty!”

 

Zhao Qi snapped out of his thoughts, meeting He Changzhou’s concerned gaze. He forced himself to focus and asked, “What’s the matter?”

 

“I’ve got a new sword,” He Changzhou said, drawing the sword from its sheath to show Zhao Qi.

 

The sword was extremely sharp, gleaming with a cold, eerie light, dazzling Zhao Qi’s eyes.

 

“Great sword!” Zhao Qi complimented sincerely, “It suits you perfectly.”

 

“Then, Your Majesty, would you name the sword?” He Changzhou asked.

 

Zhao Qi pondered, “Hmm… this sword is cold as frost, terrifying to behold. How about ‘Sorrow of Frost’?”

 

“Sorrow of Frost…” He Changzhou savored the name for a moment, “Good name, doesn’t sound like something His Majesty would come up with.”

 

“You don’t need to say the last sentence,” Zhao Qi watched as He Changzhou sheathed the sword with a decisive and heroic motion, unable to help but say, “Changzhou, if I have a daughter, would you still teach her swordsmanship and archery?”

 

“Huh?” He Changzhou was surprised, “A daughter?”

 

Zhao Qi shrugged, “A reputedly accurate fortune-teller said so.”

 

He Changzhou looked a bit displeased, “I don’t want a daughter.”

 

“Why not?” Zhao Qi chuckled.

 

“They say daughters resemble their fathers. If it’s a daughter, wouldn’t she resemble Prince Zhaonan?” He Changzhou replied awkwardly.

 

Zhao Qi hesitated, “Um… I got it wrong. Actually, the dragon egg isn’t Li Chisu’s.”

 

He Changzhou was greatly surprised, “Then whose is it?”

 

Just as Zhao Qi was unsure whether to tell He Changzhou the truth, Jiang Dehai came to report, “Your Majesty, Fourth Prince Zhao is requesting an audience.”

 

Without much thought, Zhao Qi said, “Let him in.”

 

Zhao Qiao first greeted Zhao Qi, then looked at He Changzhou with a strange expression mixed with astonishment, “General He, you can already get out of bed and walk? You still look so good, not like someone who just had a miscarriage. You are indeed young and strong!”

 

He Changzhou: “?”

 

Not only He Changzhou, but Zhao Qi also had many question marks, “What’s gotten into you?”

 

Zhao Qiao was confused, “Didn’t Your Majesty ask Mei Chuan to remove the dragon egg from General He yesterday?”

 

He Changzhou: “???”

 

Zhao Qi: “…” He remembered, at that time, he thought the dragon egg was He Changzhou, in order to vent his hatred, falsely claimed that He Changzhou was pregnant with his child so that Zhao Qiao could find the Japanese physician for him.

 

He Changzhou was puzzled and puzzled, “Your Majesty? Explain?”

 

“This is a long story, let’s talk about it later.” Zhao Qi forced a smile, threw Zhao Qiao a sharp look, “What are you here for?”

 

Zhao Qiao said, “Your Majesty, when can we leave Jiangxia? We can’t go anywhere. We’ve been trapped in the inn all day long, and my brother is almost bored to death.”

 

“Do you want to go out?” Zhao Qi nodded repeatedly.

 

“Then you go to Huai River Bank to move bricks and carry sandbags.” Zhao Qi said, “They are short of people there.”

 

Zhao Qiao cried helplessly, “When you need my brother, call my brother Xiaoguan, and when you don’t need my brother, call my brother to move bricks.”

 

Zhao Qi readily accepted his accusation, “Have you not heard of ‘Most of the emperor’s family is heartless’?”

 

After sending Zhao Qiao away, He Changzhou asked eagerly, “Your Majesty, whose child is it?”

 

“Let me tell you, don’t tell anyone else.” Zhao Qi leaned close to He Changzhou’s ear and whispered three words in a low voice.

 

He Changzhou stood up suddenly, clenched his fists, his expression complicated, and for a long time he couldn’t say a word. He simply drew “Frost of Sorrow” out of the table and split the table into two halves, “Insidious and despicable villain, Xiao Shiqing!”

 

Zhao Qi complained to He Changzhou, “He even said he’s just going with the flow.”

 

“Shameless.”

 

Was it his imagination, or did He Changzhou’s tone carry a hint of envy?

 

Zhao Qi asked, “Do you think I should let the Prime Minister’s daughter be born?”

 

He Changzhou couldn’t remain calm, “So what if he’s a righteous gentleman? He doesn’t even have the naming rights for the dragon egg!”

 

Zhao Qi imagined, “If it’s a daughter like the Prime Minister’s, wouldn’t she be the most beautiful in Dajing? Hmm, she’d be a great match for her future husband.”

 

Restlessly pacing back and forth, He Changzhou sighed, “I should have seen through it earlier and reminded His Majesty to beware of the Prime Minister.”

 

Zhao Qi continued to muse, “But what if her temper turns out like the Prime Minister’s? For a little princess, it’s better to be a bit more considerate.”

 

Filled with regret, He Changzhou lamented, “Come to think of it, I was the one who escorted His Majesty back to the palace that night. If I had been firm, there wouldn’t have been issues with Li Chi, Su Xiao, or Shi Qing.”

 

Anxiously, Zhao Qi said, “There’s another thing. In the future, if the little princess asks who her mother is, how should I respond? I can’t tell her the truth, that Xiao Shi Qing is her mother, right?”

 

He Changzhou sighed, “A single misstep becomes a lingering regret…”

 

The two spoke past each other, unable to communicate. Eventually, He Changzhou withdrew into silence, while Zhao Qi continued to agonize over whether to proceed with the birth.

 

This incident was a significant blow to He Changzhou. He knew very well that if the child were Li Chi Su’s, he might still have a chance. But now that the child was Xiao Shi Qing’s, he doubted he could even retain his position as godfather.

 

Distraught and unable to sleep, He Changzhou considered drowning his sorrows in wine, only to find the main hall downstairs occupied by two unexpected individuals.

 

Several plates of appetizers and pots of fine wine were laid out on the table. Zhao Qiao and Li Chi Su sat facing each other, enjoying their drinks. Seeing him, Li Chi Su smiled and said, “General He seems to be in a bad mood. Care to join us for a drink?”

 

Knowing that Li Chi Su was not the biological father of the dragon egg, He Changzhou no longer looked upon him as unfavorably as before. After a brief hesitation, he slammed his sword onto the table with a loud “clap” and took a seat.

 

Pouring wine for him, Li Chi Su remarked, “General He’s current mood, this prince understands a little.”

 

He Changzhou glanced at him, “Why are you still here? Didn’t the Prime Minister order you back to your fief?”

 

“I have other matters to attend to, and His Majesty has granted me a few more days,” Li Chi Su said, pushing a wine flask toward He Changzhou. “Please, General.”

 

He Changzhou lifted the flask to drink, but Zhao Qiao interrupted loudly, “Wait a moment.”

 

He Changzhou paused, watching Zhao Qiao, who seemed to have something to say. “Speak your mind, Zhao Gongzi.”

 

Glancing at He Changzhou’s abdomen, Zhao Qiao said, “Even though General He is strong, he shouldn’t be pushing himself like this. It’s just… well, how can you drink like this?”

 

Frowning, He Changzhou asked, “What exactly are you trying to say?”

 

“Well…” Zhao Qiao glanced at Li Chi Su, winking and teasing, “General knows this situation very well. How can I say it aloud?”

 

He Changzhou never got along with spoiled young men like Zhao Qiao, and he didn’t want to waste time talking to him. He raised his head and finished his drink in one go, which amazed Zhao Qiao. This martial artist was truly extraordinary.

 

“General He,” Zhao Qiao admired, “I toast to you as a real man!”

 

Ignoring him, He Changzhou poured himself another glass of wine.

 

Li Chi Su, fanning himself gently, smiled and said, “As they say, drowning sorrows in wine only brings more sorrow. Why not learn from this prince and be more open-minded, more accepting?”

 

“Open-minded, accepting…” He Changzhou chuckled softly. “I can’t learn Prince’s nonchalance, loving one person when I see one, and letting go when I say so.”

 

Sympathetically looking at He Changzhou, Zhao Qiao remarked, “Ah, General He, don’t be too upset. You’re still young. If this one is lost, there will be another one.”

 

“Let go?” Li Chi Su raised an eyebrow. “Who said I’m letting go?”

 

“Do you think you can compete with him?” He Changzhou’s sharp gaze met Li Chi Su’s, who was astute enough to deduce the situation from yesterday. He replied calmly, “General He is still too young. Wanting to obtain His Majesty, why must it be a competition?”

 

He Changzhou narrowed his eyes. “What do you mean by that?”

 

Li Chi Su’s tone was intriguing. “His Majesty is the emperor, with three thousand beauties in the harem. It’s absurd to think he belongs to only one person. As long as there’s a place for you in his heart, that should be enough.”

 

Zhao Qiao agreed, “Exactly.”

 

He Changzhou understood now, contemptuously saying, “So Prince Zhaonan wants to be one of the emperor’s concubines. You, the only royal of a different surname in Dajing, are willing to be someone else’s concubine?”

 

At this, Li Chi Su laughed heartily, “Being a concubine at least guarantees some benefits. If General He always insists on a lifelong companion, I’m afraid he’ll only watch from afar forever.”

 

“That’s true,” Zhao Qiao nodded knowingly. “Back when I served the Empress Dowager of Dongying in the Dongying court, wasn’t I also a ‘concubine’? A true man can bend and stretch; what’s wrong with being a concubine? Start as a concubine, and then rely on your abilities to rise. This has been the truth since ancient times.”

 

He Changzhou’s face darkened. He now understood why these two were sitting together drinking; they were kindred spirits.

 

“You enjoy your drinks,” He Changzhou picked up his sword and stood up. “Forgive me for not keeping you company.”

 

Little did the three know that every word of their conversation had been meticulously noted by the attendant nearby, who promptly reported everything to Xiao Shi Qing.

 

Xiao Shi Qing abruptly closed the half-read report and hurried to Zhao Qi’s room.

 

Zhao Qi finished counting the wood chips and started counting flower petals. Seeing Xiao Shi Qing’s frosty expression, he held his stomach in distress and said, “Brother, don’t rush me. I haven’t made up my mind yet.”

 

Xiao Shi Qing asked, “Are you thinking of taking a concubine?”

 

Zhao Qi stuttered, “…Ah?”


T/N: There is plenty more where that came from, so stay tuned! And stay healthy! Straighten your posture, so some stretches and drink some water before continuing hehe~

If you like my translations, feel free to donate to my ko-fi!

I really, really appreciate all the support from my readers <3 It goes a long way and motivates me lots!

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Also, check out the other series we have on HoH!

If you like cats, check out Revenge of the Garfield

If you like dragons, check out I’m Pregnant with the Hope of the Entire Planet and The Dragon and the ‘Princess’

How about some mystery or showbiz? Check out Morbid Addiction & Perfection

What about the perfect, most non-toxic male lead ever? Laws of Love

How about MC nursing ML back to health? Forced into the Deep

 

 

Side Story 1 – Brothers

       Minran had returned.

       Chu Yunhan made time to pick him up personally at the airport.

       A travel-weary Min Ran emerged from the VIP passage wearing oversized sunglasses and a dark brown leather jacket, flanked by two capable-looking bodyguards. Upon spotting him, he strode over and hugged him tightly, “Ge, I’m back.”

       Chu Yunhan rubbed his head and said, “Tsk, I haven’t seen you for so long. Why do you seem to be taller than me?”

       Minran took off his glasses, tilted his head and smiled, showing his sharp tiger teeth, “That’s right, now you can’t call me ‘Shorty’ anymore.”

       Since childhood, Minran had loved to follow Chu Yunhan around like a little tail, and their bond was exceptionally close. Even now, having grown into the third young master of the Chu family responsible for strategising, he still inadvertently reverted to his childhood demeanour in front of his elder brother. The two got in the car, chatting and laughing along the way. After a while, Minran’s cell phone rang. He glanced at the number but didn’t answer it.

       Chu Yunhan found it odd and asked, “Why didn’t you answer?”

       “I’m too lazy to answer. It must be all nonsense.”

       Suddenly, Chu Yunhan understood. The call was likely from Shen Mo. He wanted to ask Minran how he planned to deal with that person but felt it was meddling, so he hesitated for a moment.

       “If you want to ask, just ask. Why are you hesitant? You were never like this before.” Minran leaned on the back seat with an unhappy look on his face, “You’re making it awkward.”

       He smiled, “I’m afraid you’ll find me annoying if I ask. Since you know what I want to ask, can’t you take the initiative to explain it?”

       “It’s my fault, huh?” Minran raised his hands in surrender, “Okay, okay, I confess. I hooked up with Shen Mo.”

       Chu Yunhan didn’t expect that he would admit it so bluntly and use such a direct word as ‘hook up’ without any modification. His eyes widened, and he couldn’t speak for a long time.

       “Scared you?” Seeing his reaction, Chu Minran felt a little apologetic, “I thought Chen ge told you.”

       “He mentioned it, but… when you put it like that, I felt a bit…” He sighed, “I feel like a pig ate the cabbage I grew with so much hard work.”

       “Haha.” Minran laughed, “Maybe that’s what the Shen family thinks too.”

       “Does the Shen family know about your relationship?” he asked in surprise.

       “They didn’t at first.” Minran paused, his eyes softened and helpless, “But that idiot announced at the family banquet that he wanted to marry me.”

       Chu Yunhan’s eyes almost bulged out, and he looked at his younger brother in shock.

       “Yep, the Shen family’s faces looked just like yours at that time.” Chu Minran curled his lips, “He managed to stand out among the Shen family heirs after so much effort, and before he even secured his position, he went ahead and made a decision like that without consulting anyone. Even I wasn’t prepared. Now, a pack of dogs is after him, targeting him for being gay. I can’t be bothered. He made the mess so he can clean it up himself.”

       “Then what do you plan to do in the future?”

       “We’ll go our separate ways and stay out of each other’s sight.” Minran stretched and changed the subject, “Alright, I’ve explained myself. Now it’s your turn, ge.”

       “What’s there for me to explain?”

       “Any exciting romantic developments while I was away?”

       Chu Yunhan hesitated for a moment, the words on the tip of his tongue but unable to come out. He decided to wait a little longer and replied, “No.”

       Minran tilted his head and looked at him for a while, then smiled, “Alright, I guess gege been pretty lonely while I was gone. Has Chen ge been keeping such a tight leash on you that you couldn’t go out and have some fun?”

       “…No. I’ve just had a lot of work on my plate, so I haven’t had the time or energy for anything else.”

       “Tsk, Chen ge is as focused as a monk. Now that you have become straight-laced too. You two don’t plan to live like this for the rest of your life, right?”

       This hit a nerve with Chu Yunhan. His face flushed slightly as he said, “Enough, focus on your own Shen Mo and stop worrying about us.” 

       Chu Minran curled his lips and changed the subject, “Okay, okay, I won’t worry about it. Right now, all I want is Aunt Wang’s Egg Drop Fish Soup. The stuff they made in J City was an insult to mandarin fish—it tasted awful.”

       “I know you like to eat it, so I’ve already asked the kitchen to prepare it.” From Minran’s words just now, Chu Yunhan already understood the general outline of the matter. What surprised him was that the relationship between the two had reached such an extent. Shen Mo was naturally sincere to Minran; otherwise, he wouldn’t have proposed without hesitation in the midst of a crisis. As for Minran, when the matter was made to public, his first concern wasn’t himself but Shen Mo, fearing that the latter’s unstable position would come under attack. Leaving J City was likely a decision to avoid becoming a burden to Shen Mo.

       Their situation left Chu Yunhan feeling both emotional and a little envious. If only he had understood Chu Yichen’s feelings from the beginning and treated him well, perhaps things wouldn’t have reached the point where Yichen was so gravely injured, left with scars all over his body.

       He wanted to tell Minran about it, but he didn’t know where to start. His story with Yichen was long and gruelling, something he needed time to prepare himself to share.

 

       The two of them arrived home just in time for dinner, and Chu Yichen had also just returned from the company. The three of them sat down and chatted as they ate. Normally, Chu Yunhan and Chu Yichen, in their honeymoon phase relationship, were quite affectionate at home—stealing kisses and hugs without much care. But now, with a third person present, Chu Yunhan felt restrained. When Chu Yichen casually placed a small bowl of peeled shrimp in front of him, Chu Yunhan’s face flushed bright red, as embarrassed as a monkey’s ass. He quickly cast an awkward glance at Minran and said, “I can do it myself.”

       Chu Yichen said nothing, wiped his hands with a towel, and continued eating.

       Minran swallowed the ribs in his mouth and said, “Ge, do you still remember Zhang Xiaoman?”

       Chu Yunhan paused and said, “I don’t remember.”

       “You chased her back then. Didn’t you guys still date for a while?”

       “Uh, did I?” Chu Yunhan sneaked a glance at the man sitting next to him, whose expression was as composed as ever. Vaguely, he replied, “I think there might’ve been someone like that. Why do you ask?”

       “I met her at a banquet in J City a while ago. I didn’t expect that she was actually Liang Dong’s illegitimate daughter. Last year, after General Liang’s wife passed away, her mother was officially recognised. She asked me for your phone number.”

       “You… didn’t give it to her, right?” Chu Yunhan’s face fell.

       “I did. She was drinking and reminiscing about your past together, tearful and looking like she still hadn’t moved on. I remember you once said she was beautiful, classy, and your ideal type. As your younger brother, of course, I had to help pave the way for you. I even invited her to visit K City.”

       Chu Yunhan choked and looked at Chu Yichen in a panic. The man turned his face sideways and glanced at him lightly. Instantly, Chu Yunhan felt a chill run down his spine and an ache, almost phantom-like, on his rear. His past escapades had left him with countless unresolved ‘debts’. Just a few days ago, at a social event, he had run into someone from his past who’d gazed at him longingly and tried to strike up a conversation. Chu Yichen had given him a similarly brief glance at the time. The result? His rear had been sore for three days straight. This time, with Minran practically inviting someone into their home, Chu Yunhan could already foresee his dire fate—this time, his rear might not survive unscathed.

       Chu Yunhan glared at Minran angrily and said, “Who told you to meddle in other people’s business?”

       Minran said with a smile, “Looks like gege’s taste has changed. What’s your type now? I’ll help you find someone.”

       “No need.” He blushed slightly, “You don’t need to worry about my affairs.”

       “Okay,” Minran said with a chuckle. Then he suggested, “I haven’t returned for a long time, but I want to enjoy the night in K City. Let’s go out and play together later?”

       By ‘enjoy’, Minran naturally meant drinking and partying. And when it came to that, there was no such thing as quietly sipping drinks together—it always involved company. The company would either be sultry beauties or charming MB, and physical contact was inevitable. In the past, Chu Yunhan would’ve agreed without hesitation. But now that he had someone, he couldn’t ignore his partner’s feelings. Torn between his younger brother and his lover, he didn’t know how to respond.

       “Hei Yu.” At this time, Chu Yichen spoke, “Go and get ready. We will go to Lihao to sit down later.”

       Chu Yunhan blinked in surprise. Minran’s smile deepened as he remarked, “Chen ge, I thought you didn’t like those kinds of places.”

       The man smiled and said, “It’s a rare occasion.”

 

       The Lihao Club, 10th floor, Room 1003. 

       Of all the rooms, they just had to book this one.

       Chu Yunhan didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. The moment he stepped inside, he was reminded of the time he knelt on one knee by the coffee table, massaging someone’s legs—a pitiful and ridiculous memory.

       With Chu Yichen present, everything was naturally arranged to perfection. The drinks, the food, musicians, singers for accompaniment, attentive servers, and even Luo Ning personally brought in the entertainment. A row of stunningly dressed women and a row of handsome young men stood in formation, ready for anyone to choose.

       “It’s from the eldest to youngest in order. Eldest brother, you go first.” Minran tilted his head and looked at him.

       Chu Yunhan looked at Chu Yichen awkwardly, but the man smiled faintly and said, “Yes, you first, ge.”

       Being called ‘ge’ made him tremble all over and get goosebumps. Now, he began to regret not telling the truth to Minran from the beginning. At this moment, he was simply riding a tiger. Helplessly, he pointed at a girl standing on the far side and said, “Her.”

       The girl had a pure appearance, a full chest, and a delicate smile as she said, “Hello, boss, my name is Huang Ying.” She then gracefully sat next to him. According to the usual routine, he would have embraced her and started drinking, but now with Chu Yichen sitting beside him, he sat upright, not daring to even let his hands wander, holding his cup and staring straight ahead at the small stage.

       Chu Yichen and Minran both chose MB, who dutifully catered to them. The lights dimmed, and the musicians began to play a French song. The girl who sang had a smoky voice and sang the song hoarsely and lowly.

       “Come on, let’s play cards,” Minran said, half holding the handsome MB in his arms.

       “What game?” Yichen asked.

       “Old Maid. Whoever ends up with the Joker loses, and whoever has the King wins. The loser has to do whatever the winner asks. How about that?”

       Chu Yichen, “Okay.”

       Seeing that they were both interested, Chu Yunhan said, “I have no objection.”

       So the three people started playing. Naturally, the attendants were tasked with drawing cards. Following Chu Yunhan’s instructions, Huang Ying drew the leftmost card from Minran’s MB’s hand. She turned it around to show him—it was the Joker. Chu Yunhan desperately signaled to Chu Yichen with his eyes to draw from Minran next.

       He knew the King was in Minran’s hand. If he lost, who knew what mischief his younger brother would come up with? It was better for Chu Yichen to lose—Minran wouldn’t dare push his luck with him. But to his dismay, Chu Yichen misread his signals and instructed his attendant to draw a different card. The result? Chu Yunhan lost. He glared at Chu Yichen furiously.

       “It’s the first round, so I won’t make it too difficult. Let’s keep it simple,” Minran said with a playful smile. Just when Chu Yunhan breathed a sigh of relief, he heard him say, “The king ordered that the loser kiss this lovely Miss Huang Ying.”

       Chu Yunhan was stunned and looked at him with wide eyes.

       It was indeed a simple punishment. In the past, he wouldn’t have hesitated to kiss one of the girls who accompanied him while drinking. But now… He glanced nervously at Chu Yichen.

       The man looked at him calmly as if he were watching from the sidelines.

       “I, that…”

       “Eldest brother, you’re not thinking of backing out, are you?” Minran cut him off before he could speak.

       Chu Yunhan’s eyes moved from Chu Yichen to Huang Ying, then back to Minran, and said, “Can’t you change it to another one?”

       He meant ‘change the punishment’, but Minran misinterpreted it as ‘change the person’ and said very generously, “Okay, you can pick whatever you like.”

       Chu Yunhan couldn’t laugh or cry. If he kissed that girl today, he probably wouldn’t be able to get out of bed tomorrow. The only plan for now…

       With a resigned sigh, he said, “Clear the room.”

       As soon as the eldest young master gave the order, the attendants and servers obediently left. The room was now empty except for the three brothers and a few personal bodyguards.

       Chu Yunhan stood, walked over to Chu Yichen, and leaned down with one hand resting on the back of the sofa. His lips lightly brushed against the man’s cheek. He then turned to Minran and said, “Satisfied?”

       Minran stared in surprise for a moment before breaking into a laugh. “I didn’t think you’d cave so quickly.”

       “Do you think I can’t see through your little tricks? I’m your older brother.” He said, his face a little red, “I was just waiting for the right time to tell you, and here you are, jumping at the chance to mess with me.” He glanced at Chu Yichen and said, “And this one’s your accomplice.”

       The man chuckled, “You’re blaming me for not drawing the Joker?”

       Chu Yunhan raised his eyebrows.

       Chu Yichen’s eyes were filled with softness, “Alright, my fault.”

       “Okay, okay, I can’t bear to see you guys flirting with each other like this.” Minran got the answer he wanted and was in a good mood. He hooked Bai Yang’s neck, who was standing by the doo,r and said, “Little Bai Yang, it’s been a long time. Did you miss me?”

       “Third Young Master…” Bai Yang was overwhelmed by him and did not dare to break away. He could only look at Chu Yunhan as if he was asking for help.

       “Bai Yang is my man; don’t bully him.” Chu Yunhan sat down next to Chu Yichen and said while drinking.

       “You two are so sweet to each other; why don’t you allow me to have some fun alone? Besides, how could I bully him?” Minran lifted Bai Yang’s chin frivolously and said, “Little Bai Yang, I miss you so much. Let me give you a kiss.”

       Bai Yang’s face turned green as he dodged out of the way.

       The joking atmosphere was interrupted when the door opened.

       Hei Yu led a person in. When Chu Minran saw who it was, his expression darkened, and he frowned, “What are you doing here?”

       Shen Mo, dressed in a long black coat, still carried the chill of the outdoors. With a serene and amiable smile, he replied, “I missed you, so I came.” This man exuded an air of elegance, refined and approachable, and his smile was undeniably captivating.

       Minran’s eyes were slightly red, and he held Bai Yang’s hand without letting go, saying, “I’m having a good time; don’t come and spoil the fun.”

       Shen Mo was not angry and said slowly, “Go on and have fun. I’ll stay with you.”

       Minran stopped talking.

       Upon seeing this, Chu Yichen whispered something to Hei Yu and said, “Let’s head somewhere else to sit together.”

 

       A bright moon hung over the sea, like a silver plate suspended high in the sky, and stars dotted the celestial canvas, shimmering faintly, forming a silvery river across the sky.

       The white yacht broke through the dark sea, moving slowly like a fish.

       At the stern deck, Minran and Shen Mo stood with glasses of wine, speaking in hushed tones. On the uppermost flybridge deck, wrapped in a blanket, Chu Yunhan sat beside Chu Yichen, both gazing at the star-filled sky.

       “Are you cold?” Chu Yichen asked.

       He shook his head,

       He sighed, “Minran, the devil incarnate, has been subdued this time. Shen Mo’s invulnerable good temper leaves him with nothing to do.”

       “Shen Mo has a good temper only in front of him, but he is not very good to others.” Chu Yichen said.

       Chu Yunhan took a sip of wine, suddenly thought of something, and asked, “Do we have any leverage over Shen Mo?”

       “Why would we need leverage on him?”

       “In case he bullies Minran?”

       Chu Yichen laughed, “Do you think Minran will be the kind to be bullied by him?”

       He curled his lips, “Only I am the type to let myself be bullied obediently.”

       The man’s eyebrows softened; he stroked his hair with his hand and said, “I wouldn’t dare.”

       A smile crept onto Chu Yunhan’s lips. He tilted his head to rest against Chu Yichen’s shoulder, nuzzling lightly. “I’m sleepy. Let’s go down and sleep, okay?”

       “Okay.”

 

       The most common word said was ‘okay’.

       Because he’s his heart’s greatest treasure. 


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Chapter 31 – H*** ****, You Like Guys Too Ah!

Zhong Weishi hadn’t actually taken the matter of the birthday gift to heart—he had only mentioned it in passing.

Thinking back to last year, when he celebrated his birthday with Qiangzi and the others, his gift had been a pack of spicy strips. The packaging featured a skull and a row of edgy, stylized characters: Reaper Spicy Strips.

“Happy birthday ah, birthday boy! Try it out, this stuff is amazing! A hundred times better than Weilong!”

Zhong Weishi had taken a big bite full of anticipation, only for an overwhelming, burning spiciness to surge through his entire body, hitting straight to his organs. It choked him to the point that he was filled with tears and couldn’t open his eyes.

That wasn’t just any regular spicy strip. A single lick was enough to burn away all sensation in people’s taste buds. He had suffered by the sink, rinsing his mouth in agony for a full 30 minutes, yet the numbness on his tongue remained. His mouth burned so intensely that he couldn’t even close it properly, and saliva kept pooling uncontrollably.

Meanwhile, the culprits behind it all laughed heartlessly on the side.

The next day, his ass still had a lingering, fiery sensation.

To him, the word “gift” had always just meant something for fun, so he hadn’t expected Gu Lizhou to put much thought into picking one.

He had to admit that Gu Lizhou’s handwriting was as impressive as the person himself. It was nearly identical to Wan Lizhou’s signature!

He must have practiced for a long time.

Zhong Weishi was paralyzed on the bed in a “大” shape, kicked his feet lazily, then buried his face deep into his pillow with a long sigh.

Thinking back on it, he felt too embarrassed. If he had known, he would’ve just pretended to have been cheated!

His right hand brushed over the keyboard, and the system emitted a rhythmic tapping sound as he typed.

[Weishi]: I got too excited just now, I think I forgot to say thank you.

[Gigolo]: You’re welcome.

[Weishi]: That watch must’ve been expensive. It’s really a waste of money.

[Gigolo]: Making up for all the fatherly love you’ve lacked over the years.

Zhong Weishi burst out laughing at the message.

Typing with one hand was a bit laborious, so Zhong Weishi shifted positions, propping himself up on his elbow.

[Weishi]: When’s your birthday?

[Gigolo]: Father’s Day next year.

[Weishi]: Are you done yet?! Be serious!

[Gigolo]: 2.29

[Weishi]: What the fvck! For real?

Gu Lizhou sent a photo of his ID to prove he wasn’t lying.

The ID photo was newly taken. Zhong Weishi zoomed in and stared at it for a while.

A rare gem.1This can also be a slang for someone who is outrageous or annoying to the extreme.

[Weishi]: You’re miserable. Doesn’t that mean you get way fewer birthdays than everyone else?

[Gigolo]: Yeah, once every four years.

[Weishi]: So you’re only seven this year? Hahahaha

[Gigolo]: …

[Weishi]: I’ve got your birthday noted! When the time comes, I’ll celebrate your lunar birthday with you!

Gu Lizhou stared at that last message in a daze for a long time.

He couldn’t even remember the last time someone had celebrated his birthday with him. Maybe seven or eight years ago? He had never cared much for these occasions.

But looking at that exclamation mark at the end of the message, he suddenly found himself looking forward to his birthday.

A freshly lit cigarette rested between his fingers. He tapped the screen with one finger and sent a voice message: “Alright, get some rest.”

[Lunatic]: Mm, good night.

“Good night.”

By the time their chat ended, it was already past eleven.

Gu Lizhou wasn’t the least bit sleepy. Sitting at his desk, his mind drifted back to the moment his cover had been blown today.

His thoughts wandered to that night when Zhong Weishi blew rainbow farts.

Zhong Weishi had said that reading his work made him feel a sense of strength.

Fate was a strange thing. The strength he had given to others years ago had now, in a roundabout way, found its way back to him.

No matter how resounding a reputation might be, one day it will fade into the past. The only thing that truly gave life meaning was perseverance.

It didn’t matter how many people left—what mattered was that there would always be someone still waiting for him.

He later thought about it carefully. He realized that maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing that the barrier between them hadn’t been broken. Given his current state of disarray, if he revealed himself to Zhong Weishi now, the image of the white moonlight would probably shatter.

He wanted to become his old self again.

He wanted the next 10 years, 20 years, 30 years… to hold more meaning. He wanted to reach old age and still be able to look back with pride.

—I’ve been uncertain, disappointed, lost, and broken. I’ve fallen, but I stood up again and found my way.

Gu Lizhou fixed his gaze on the screen and started typing.

The unfocused look in his eyes sharpened into one of determination.

Following the sudden burst of inspiration from last time, he began outlining the main plot and various subplots, preparing to write a lengthy suspense novel.

The protagonist’s character design and the rough framework of the story had already taken shape. The murder of a streamer would serve as the first case, and from there, he would gradually refine each storyline and correct any logical inconsistencies.

He had read countless works in this genre, but this was his first time actually writing one himself.

He had no idea how long it would take to finish, how many obstacles he would encounter along the way, or how many people would still be willing to read it once it was done.

But he knew one thing—this moment marked a new beginning in his life.

One day, he would stand before his die-hard fans again and make them take back that “you’re too old to write” remark.

Wan Lizhou wasn’t some kind of genius, but he had always been incredible. Anyone who could persist in chasing their dreams were incredible.

The sound of typing finally ceased at four in the morning. Gu Lizhou went to bed, only to be woken up at eight by the noises coming from the kitchen. He got up and continued researching.

Meanwhile, just a few walls away, Zhong Weishi had spent the whole night in a state of excitement—one moment fiddling with his new watch’s calendar function, the next watching Da Fei’s livestream. Right before bed, he suddenly remembered that fine he needed to pay and immediately sprang up from his bed to write an IOU, even adding in the 4,000 + rent he still owed from last time.

Early morning.

Cao Zhiheng was hanging clothes on the balcony when Zhong Weishi passed by, nodding a quick greeting before heading straight for Gu Lizhou’s room.

“Hey, rich guy… about last night…” His sentence abruptly cut off, the rest of his words stuck in his throat.

Because he saw Gu Lizhou’s computer screen switch from one interface straight to the desktop in an instant.

There were only two reasons why a man would react like this: One, he was playing games at work and got caught by his boss. Two, he was watching p0rn and jerking off when someone suddenly walked in.

The man sitting in front of his desk wore thin-framed glasses. His expression was one of sheer panic. His mouth was slightly open, like a wooden statue, unable to react.

The answer was painfully obvious!

No way, Gu Lizhou…

Zhong Weishi’s mind went “Ew~” in an instant.

Gu Lizhou’s desk was positioned with his back to the door. If this guy hadn’t barged in so aggressively, he wouldn’t have had time to react at all.

He glanced at his laptop again, making sure all his documents were minimized, then turned around and shouted, “Who told you to enter without knocking? Get out and come back in again!”

“Oh.” Zhong Weishi pouted, backed out, and knocked three times. “Excuse me, is the rich guy home?”

Gu Lizhou snorted. “Come in.”

More surprising than the thought of Gu Lizhou watching p0rn first thing in the morning was the sight of him wearing glasses.

This man was always particular about his lifestyle. Even in his 30s, his skin was still smooth and fair. The thin black-gold frames perched on his high nose bridge made him look refined and handsome.

His desk was covered in papers, his right hand still resting on the mouse. His bangs partially obscured his brows, giving him a scholarly look that Zhong Weishi had never seen before.

Behind the lenses, his eyes lacked their usual laziness. Instead, they were deep and serious, as if he were a completely different person.

This was the first time he had seen a man who looked better with glasses.

But at the same time, there was an undeniable air of a well-dressed scoundrel about him.

Feeling a bit embarrassed, Zhong Weishi scratched the back of his head. “Did I interrupt something?”

“What?” Gu Lizhou’s mind was filled with: Shit, shit, what to answer if the little beast asked? My identity won’t be exposed just like that, right?

It took him a moment to register the suggestive look in Zhong Weishi’s eyes. Then, with a quick and decisive slap, he snapped, “What the hell is going on in your head?”

“Isn’t that what you were doing?” Zhong Weishi’s gaze swept over Gu Lizhou’s crotch—jeans, no suspicious bulges, zipper intact. “Then what were you looking at?”

“None of your goddamn business.” Gu Lizhou shut his laptop and climbed onto his bed.

His guilty-looking actions only fueled Zhong Weishi’s imagination. “Are you sure?”

“Of course I am.” Gu Lizhou answered frankly.

“Why are you wearing glasses now ah?” Zhong Weishi pinched the frame and perched it on his own nose. “Damn, these actually have a prescription ah.”

“No shit. Why would I wear them otherwise?”

“For the aesthetic. I wear non-prescription ones for my roles when I play those refined scoundrels.” Zhong Weishi looked at him. “You wearing glasses makes you look kinda…”

He originally meant to say “refined ah”, but Gu Lizhou kept staring at him with that deep, unreadable gaze. His throat tightened for no reason, and somehow, the words that came out were—“like a total scoundrel ah.”

What followed was a violent beating.

Zhong Weishi rolled on the bed clutching a pillow, but Gu Lizhou leaped on him, locking him in place like he was tying up a crab. Then he started tickling him mercilessly. “Still trying to run?”

Zhong Weishi laughed so hard that he kicked the air, gripping Gu Lizhou’s wrist with all his strength, but he was too weak from the tickling to push him away. The whole room was filled with breathless laughter and gasps for air.

In the struggle, his hand accidentally scratched Gu Lizhou’s jaw, leaving three distinct red marks on his fair skin.

Zhong Weishi sucked in a breath. “I’m sorry.”

“You’re dead.” Gu Lizhou straddled his thigh and resumed his tickle attack.

Zhong Weishi squirmed like a slippery eel, laughing so hard he was out of breath. He finally managed to grab Gu Lizhou’s wrist and pleaded in desperation, “I, I—I was wrong!”

Gu Lizhou twisted his arm back and pinned him down, leaning in closer. “Admitting defeat?”

A soft pillow was the only thing between them. Zhong Weishi caught a whiff of his fragrant shampoo.

He stared into Gu Lizhou’s eyes, dark like stars in the midnight sky.

For some reason, his heart was pounding uncontrollably.

In just two seconds of eye contact, his ears started burning with embarrassment. He blinked and quickly nodded. “Admitting defeat.”

Gu Lizhou finally let go, smoothing out his wrinkled shirt with a smile. “So, what was so urgent that you came running over?”

Zhong Weishi scratched his ear, then pulled a crumpled IOU from his pocket and slapped it onto the desk. “Here, for you—rent, plus the fine. I’ll pay you back when I save up enough.”

“So obedient?” Gu Lizhou glanced at the atrociously written note. “Can you pay it off within six months?”

“No idea ah. If I can’t, I’ll just drag it out a little longer.” Zhong Weishi grinned.

Right next to the note was Gu Lizhou’s handwritten character outline.

Both their gazes landed on the same spot.

Ai?” Zhong Weishi’s eyes lit up. “What are you writing…” Just as he was about to reach out and flip it open, Gu Lizhou snatched it away, uncharacteristically stumbling over his words. “Uh, have you, have you had breakfast yet?”

“Not yet ah.”

“Go, go, go. Let’s eat breakfast.” Gu Lizhou slung an arm over his shoulder and steered him toward the door.

“What were you writing?” Zhong Weishi twisted his head back for another look.

“Practicing writing.”

“Oh. You paying for breakfast?”

“Please. Did you brush your teeth and wash your face?” Gu Lizhou kept switching topics.

“I did.”

“Oh? Then why do you still have eye gunk in the corner of your eyes?”

“No way.” Zhong Weishi rubbed his eyes. “I really did. Smell if you don’t believe me.”

“Roll.”

Actually, Gu Lizhou had already been forced by Cao Zhiheng to drink a bowl of porridge and eat two buns earlier that morning. He only asked the question to change the subject—who would’ve thought this brat hadn’t eaten anything at this hour?

At the breakfast shop, he only ordered a serving of shrimp wontons.

“Are you even a man? That tiny portion wouldn’t even fill the gap between your teeth,” Zhong Weishi remarked.

“Just order your own.” Gu Lizhou pulled out a Grandpa Mao from his wallet and placed it on the counter. “Eat as much as you can.”

Zhong Weishi’s appetite kicked in, and he ordered a deluxe family-sized wonton bowl, a serving of pan-fried buns, and a mung bean soup.

“Do you eat crab roe soup dumplings? They’re really good—thin skin, lots of broth.” Zhong Weishi tilted his head, studying the menu.

Gu Lizhou: “If you want them, just order them ah.”

“But if I can’t finish them, it’d be a waste. So, I need to check how much space your stomach still has.”

Gu Lizhou thought for a moment. “About 30%-40% left.”

“30%-40% of what? A bowl of wontons? Your 30%-40% percent and my 30%-40% might be completely different. Qiangzi’s 30%-40% might be ten bowls of instant noodles.” Zhong Weishi analyzed it seriously.

Too lazy to argue, Gu Lizhou directly told the little girl behind the cashier to add a serving of crab roe soup dumplings.

“You’re so generous,” Zhong Weishi said.

“Just remember to be filial to me properly in the future.”

“Got it la—”

Since there wasn’t much work this morning, Zhong Weishi found a quiet corner to slowly enjoy his hearty breakfast.

The breakfast shop had WiFi, so while waiting for his food, he scrolled through his WeChat group messages.

[Huangfu]: Da Fei, don’t be afraid. I’ve got your back. He wouldn’t dare do anything to you.

[Da Fei]: I’m just worried he’ll come to the shop and cause trouble. If my parents find out, I’m done for. T_T This guy is seriously sick.

[Wei-ge]: @Weishi @Weishi Are you awake? Big news!! Da Fei got hit on!

[Huangfu]: That grandson wants to race me.

Zhong Weishi’s pupils dilated instantly. He quickly scrolled up to check the chat history.

The “grandson” Qiangzi mentioned was none other than the guy who had been wildly throwing gifts at Da Fei—‘Oops, That’s What If Feels Like.’

After Zhong Weishi went offline last night, the two of them had a heated argument in the live stream. Because ‘Oops’ had declared himself as Da Fei’s boyfriend on the platform which Da Fei outright denied it.

This whole mess traced back to the night when Gu Lizhou and Zhong Weishi watched the stream together.

Back then, Qiangzi had only sent a few aircraft carriers before his balance ran dry. But ‘‘Oops’’ had dropped a whopping 60,000 yuan in one go, shocking everyone in the live broadcast room.

After brushing the gift, he asked to add Da Fei on WeChat to become friends.

Anyone with a bit of life experience could tell what that really meant. Naturally, Da Fei refused. At first, he didn’t add the guy and instead privately messaged him, asking for his Alipay account to return the money.

Not only did ‘Oops’ refuse to accept it, but the next day, he came back and threw in another massive donation.

Feeling guilty, Da Fei eventually added him, intending to return the money and put an end to this shady “business.”

But the moment he added him, his Moments revealed his workplace—Legendary Hair Salon on Yueshan Street.

‘Oops’ not only refused the refund but also started hitting on him.

[Oops]: You’ve never even tried it. How can you be sure you won’t like it? I promise I’ll make you feel good.

[Da Fei]: Stop talking.

[Oops]: You’re really not willing to spend a night with me for this much money? Is it not enough? I can send you more if you want ah.

True to his name,2His name can also mean “what terrible luck.” ‘Oops’ had made a truly awful opening remark, which only made Da Fei furious.

[Da Fei]: You’re sick! I’m not for sale. I can return every cent of what you sent me, and I won’t be broadcasting anymore.

[Oops]: I’m not short on money. Once I’ve given it to you, it’s yours.

[Oops]: Can’t I at least try to chase you slowly? Don’t reject me so quickly. You don’t even know me yet.

[Da Fei]: I have no interest in knowing you.

[Oops]: It’s hard for me when you’re like this.

[Da Fei]: It’s hard for me too when you’re like this.

[Oops]: I’ll come find you.

After Zhong Weishi finished reading the chat logs Da Fei had shared, he felt deeply unsettled.

Meanwhile, Gu Lizhou casually sipped on the mung bean soup from his bowl and chuckled, “Da Fei really is popular with guys ah.”

Zhong Weishi’s eyes widened in suspicion. “Wait, don’t tell me you like him too!”

“I’m not into that type,” Gu Lizhou replied, taking another sip.

“Oh, you scared me for a second.” Zhong Weishi looked down, but then a sudden realization struck him. He shot up in alarm. “Wait—holy shit, you like guys too ah!”

Every head in the shop turned in unison.

The result of his outburst made Gu Lizhou shove his face into the bowl of mung bean soup.

Although Gu Lizhou later clarified that he liked the opposite sex, Zhong Weishi remained skeptical of that answer.

“I heard from Uncle Cao that you don’t have a girlfriend. Why is that?”

“Couldn’t find one. Haven’t met someone who makes my heart race.”

“It shouldn’t be ah… Someone with your looks should be easy to find a match for ah.”

“How would I know? Maybe I’m just destined to be unlucky in love. Who has a smooth-sailing life anyway?” Gu Lizhou stirred the small wontons in his bowl. “I mean, I’m rich, good-looking, and have a great personality. I’m practically perfect. Maybe the heavens thought—”

Before he could finish, the person across from him gagged.

Gu Lizhou picked up his chopsticks and knocked them against his forehead.

Zhong Weishi squinted at him, tilting his head. “You sure you don’t have some unspeakable secret?”

Gu Lizhou sighed, worn down by his persistence. “Fine. I just like men, okay?”

His tone was so reluctant that Zhong Weishi found it hard to believe.

The topic shifted back to the group chat records.

Da Fei usually acted shy and reserved, but at the end of the day, he was still a man. There was only so much harassment from “Oops” he could take before he snapped and blocked him.

“Oops” went to the live platform, threatening to show up at Da Fei’s workplace if he didn’t agree to “get back together.”

Qiangzi, furious on Da Fei’s behalf, immediately cursed him out, calling him a pervert and a retarded gay. The two got into a heated argument.

To Qiangzi, a man’s dignity was as important as his life.

Since arguing online wasn’t satisfying enough, they decided to settle it offline.

Zhong Weishi gave Gu Lizhou a brief rundown of the situation. As someone who had long “retired from jianghu,” Gu Lizhou found it utterly ridiculous.

What was even worth fighting over?

Childish.

But what Zhong Weishi was more concerned about was—Qiangzi only had a little electric scooter. What the hell was he planning to race with ah!?

Qiangzi sent over the racing location which was a certain Wanda Plaza in the downtown area.

Gu Lizhou was forcibly dragged along by Zhong Weishi to watch the commotion.

At the main entrance.

Zhong Weishi was looking down, searching for possible drag racing spots near Wanda Plaza.

The area was full of traffic lights, making it dangerous even for an electric scooter race. If the police caught them, it’d be over. So, he turned to the cultured one beside him for help in wording a message to stop this so-called battle between men.

“What a bunch of childish idiots.” Gu Lizhou had no problem speaking from a place of comfort. “Just let them race ah. It’ll be a great chance to get acquainted with the traffic police.”

Zhong Weishi gave him a blank look and sent a voice message to the group: “Qiangzi, listen. Can you talk to him and reconsider? No racing, no fighting. We live in a civilized society, so let’s strive to be civilized people.”

“How about a contest to see who can recite the Eight Honors and Eight Shames first? I’ll join too! Trust me, I’ll win for sure!”

Gu Lizhou: “…”

At that moment, A’Wei came running from Wanda Plaza’s main entrance.

“Weishi, hurry! They’re already warming up!”

“Are they insane?” Zhong Weishi rushed after him, but something felt off. As they ran, he realized something was wrong—Wei-ge was leading them straight into the mall.

“Where the hell are we going? Weren’t they supposed to race?”

“Yeah, third-floor arcade. Motorcycle racing competition.”

Gu Lizhou: “…”

Zhong Weishi: “…”

Chapter 95

       With the summer vacation over, Zhan Weiyang faced the toughest year of high school, the senior year. The school had strict requirements for the students in their final year; regardless of whether they were boarding or not, all students were required to attend evening self-study sessions, and Zhan Weiyang was no exception.

       Chen Youyou, despite his good grades, did not appear relaxed. He woke up early every day and returned home late. Apart from eating and sleeping, he spent all his other time reviewing his lessons.

       He was also quite troubled. He had a specific university and major in mind, but the thought of living on campus and spending extended periods with other peers caused him considerable distress.

       He thought that Zhan Weiyang should agree with him about this kind of sorrow.

       But to Chen Youyou’s surprise, Zhan Weiyang did not feel the same sorrow as him, and Zhan Weiyang had his own firm idea on this matter: he wanted to stay in the dorm.

       “Ah?” Chen Youyou asked him, “Why?”

       Zhan Weiyang buried his head while doing the questions and took the time to answer, “Because I can.”

       Chen Youyou didn’t understand, “H-how can you?”

       Zhan Weiyang looked up at him and said, “I think I can do it, so I can do it.”

       Chen Youyou didn’t say anything. He felt that Zhan Weiyang had changed in some ways, but he couldn’t tell exactly where he had changed because Zhan Weiyang was still not that smart and behaved like a child. If Chen Youyou hadn’t been with Zhan Weiyang for a long time, he wouldn’t even be able to feel the subtle changes.

       Zhan Weiyang was like the fortune tree he planted in the flower pot. While the trunk and leaves were growing slowly, they also tried hard to take root in the soil.

       His growth might not be obvious to the eyes, but his roots had been deeply buried in the soil and were difficult to shake in places one couldn’t see.

       Since Pei Jingrong left that day, he never contacted Pei Qing again. Zhan Yingfei called Pei Qing twice.

       Zhan Yingfei had heard about Pei Qing and Zhan Weiyang, but her attitude was much gentler. Although she probably still did not agree in her heart, she did not express her opposition clearly in her words.

       She wanted to reconcile Pei Qing and her son. She said to Pei Qing, “You know your father is stubborn. Sometimes you need to coax him.”

       Pei Qing said to Zhan Yingfei, “Auntie, you are too kind. My father is not stubborn but arrogant. This matter is not a question of coaxing or not, but he is never willing to put himself in my shoes and think about me.”

       Zhan Yingfei was silent for a while and said, “Pei Qing, Auntie doesn’t want to say who is right or wrong, but since we’re all of a certain age and have experienced more in life, you will definitely find that the path you’ve chosen is a wrong one in the future.”

       “Auntie, there is no right or wrong path in life,” Pei Qing said, “and regret is meaningless. Just like, would you consider your previous marriage a mistake? If so, was Xueqing’s birth a mistake?”

       Zhan Yingfei did not speak.

       Pei Qing said, “Isn’t life something you walk out step by step? There’s no need to regret or look back.”

       After a while, Zhan Yingfei sighed and said, “I just think you’re too mature. In fact, you’ll be too tired if you live like this.”

       Pei Qing said to her, “Sometimes it’s very tiring. I only feel relaxed when I’m with Yangyang.”

       After that, Zhan Yingfei didn’t say anything else.

       Pei Qing knew that Pei Jingrong was arrogantly waiting for him to compromise and go back to apologise, but he knew that Pei Jingrong would never get it. He had never considered never seeing Pei Jingrong again; Pei Jingrong was still his father after all. However, the meeting did not mean compromising. If he did not compromise, Pei Jingrong would certainly not compromise either.

       He wondered if Pei Jingrong would regret it when he got old one day and recalled the current situation of the father and son.

       During the winter break of his senior year, Zhan Weiyang did not have a long vacation. Even after the school had a holiday, Zhan Weiyang spent every day at home reading and reviewing his studies.

       Pei Qing was even busier before the New Year, working overtime until late at night, and didn’t have a holiday until the day before New Year’s Eve.

       The New Year atmosphere this year was a bit awkward.

       Pei Jingrong and his wife didn’t come. Zhan Weiyang’s second uncle and his family came before the New Year, took Grandma over to celebrate, and invited Zhan Pengcheng and his family to go as well.

       Zhan Weiyang didn’t want to go because Pei Qing hadn’t had a holiday at that time, and he also wanted to review at home.

       Since Grandma left, Auntie Luo also went home for the New Year. Zhan Pengcheng was worried about Zhan Weiyang being alone at home, so he wanted to stay too and only asked Zhan Weiguang to go to his second uncle’s place to celebrate the New Year.

       Zhan Weiguang said, “I don’t want to go either.”

       Zhan Pengcheng heard him say that and said, “Then stay. Let’s celebrate the New Year together as a family.”

       Zhan Weiyang looked at Zhan Pengcheng and said nothing.

       Zhan Pengcheng said, “Why are you looking at me?”

       Zhan Weiyang said, “Qing ge is also coming to celebrate the New Year.”

       Zhan Pengcheng said, “Come, let him come. I didn’t ask him not to come, why are you so mean to me?”

       Zhan Weiyang said quickly, “I’m not mean.”

       Zhan Weiguang was lying on the sofa playing with his phone, but now he looked up at Zhan Weiyang and said, “How can you say you are not mean? Your tone was so mean just now.”

       Zhan Weiyang said, “I’m not. I’m just reminding Dad.”

       Zhan Pengcheng said, “Okay, Dad understand. Please invite Qing Ge to celebrate the New Year together.”

       On New Year’s Eve, Zhan Pengcheng was ready to prepare a dinner for his two sons. Although he was not completely unable to cook, he had not been in the kitchen for more than ten years and had been busy since morning.

       This state continued until Pei Qing came over.

       Pei Qing washed his hands and came to help Zhan Pengcheng, and the work in the kitchen suddenly became organised.

       Zhan Pengcheng took time to rest by the door and secretly smoked a cigarette. He looked at Pei Qing’s back and said, “I wish you were my son.” His two sons were still sleeping upstairs.

       After saying this, Zhan Pengcheng suddenly felt that it was inappropriate as if he was hinting at something and not holding back at all. Although he did not object to Pei Qing and Zhan Weiyang’s relationship, he still hoped that Zhan Weiyang could find a well-behaved and lovely girlfriend instead of a tall and handsome boyfriend.

       So he added, “I’m talking about being my own son.”

       Pei Qing smiled when he heard this and said nothing. He didn’t even stop what he was doing.

       When it was time to eat the New Year’s Eve dinner, Zhan Pengcheng and Pei Qing really prepared a table of dishes.

       Zhan Weiguang saw it and said, “Wow, there are too many dishes. Can we finish them?”

       Zhan Pengcheng opened the wine cabinet to find wine and said, “If you can’t finish them, you will eat leftovers every day.”

       Zhan Weiguang pointed at Zhan Weiyang with chopsticks, “It’s all for you; you must finish them all.”

       As a result, Zhan Weiyang said happily, “Okay, I will finish them all.” He knew that Pei Qing and Zhan Pengcheng made dinner, and many of them were his favourite dishes. He was looking forward to it since the afternoon.

       Seeing Zhan Pengcheng put a bottle of wine on the dining table, Zhan Weiguang said, “Dad, don’t drink.”

       Zhan Pengcheng took out a very small wine glass and showed it to him: “Just one drink.” He then added, “You all can have a little too.”

       The temperature outside was very low, and they didn’t know when the snowflakes started to fall. It didn’t snow often in this southern city, and no one knew it was snowing outside.

       The room was very warm, different from the lively atmosphere last year. Although there were fewer people and it was a little colder this year, the atmosphere was very gentle.

       Zhan Pengcheng rarely drinks now. He rarely had a small cup, so he cherished it especially and sipped it in small sips, reluctant to finish it.

       Zhan Weiyang did not stop eating all night and was very satisfied with the meal.

       After dinner, Zhan Pengcheng was a little too lazy to move. He pushed the bowl forward, looked at the messy table, and said, “Let’s clean it up tomorrow.”

       Zhan Weiguang stretched, stood up and said, “I’ll watch the gala first.” There was a female star he liked very much in this year’s Spring Festival Gala.

       At this time, Pei Qing said to Zhan Pengcheng, “I’ll wash the dishes. Uncle, you can watch the gala with Weiguang.”

       Zhan Pengcheng suddenly felt embarrassed. He said, “How can I let you do that? Let me do it.”

       Pei Qing had already stood up to clean the table and said, “It’s okay.”

       Zhan Pengcheng glanced at Zhan Weiyang and suddenly thought he had given Pei Qing his precious son. What’s there to be embarrassed about asking him to wash the dishes? So he said, “Thank you for your hard work.” Then he stood up and went to the living room.

       Zhan Weiyang was still sitting on the chair, smiling and looking up at Pei Qing. Pei Qing asked him, “What are you so happy about?” Zhan Weiyang had drunk some wine tonight and seemed a little excited. He reached out, stacked the empty bowls together, and said, “I’ll help you.”


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Chapter 31

       Qian Xiaoke believed that hard work would always pay off. When the company suddenly offered him free accommodation, he saw it as the greatest reward for his dedication!  

       When he was called into Chairman Cheng’s office, he was informed, “This is a reward for outstanding employees. But just like salary confidentiality, this must be kept secret. If word gets out, the reward will be revoked.”

       Although Qian Xiaoke didn’t quite understand why such a reward had to be kept confidential, he nodded firmly and vowed never to speak a word of it.  

       With tears in his eyes, he left Chairman Cheng’s office, clutching the address and keys in his hands.  

       After he left, Cheng Sen made a call to Jiang Tongyan. “He’s moving in tonight.”  

       Jiang Tongyan replied, “Thanks.”  

       “What about you? When are you moving?”  

       “I’m not.” Jiang Tongyan said, “Our project is wrapping up soon. My flight to New York is the day after tomorrow.”  

       Cheng Sen chuckled. “Are you really willing to leave?”  

       Willing or not, he had to go.  

       Jiang Tongyan thought to himself—he wasn’t the kind of person to let a fluffy rabbit disrupt his work schedule.  

       He, Jiang Tongyan, was a career-driven CEO.  

       “My flight ticket has been booked. Once I’m back, I’ll start the resignation process,” Jiang Tongyan said. “But I won’t be back for a while—probably by the end of the year.”  

       It was only late September now. After handling his resignation and tying up other loose ends, even if things moved quickly, he would be busy until winter.  

       He suddenly realised it might be quite a while before he saw that fluffy rabbit again. That thought was…  

       Better left unsaid.  

       “Alright, don’t worry about things here. I’ll keep an eye on them for you.”

       “What exactly are you keeping an eye on?”

       Cheng Sen laughed. “Qian Xiaoke, of course! If any suspicious people show up around him, I’ll report to you immediately so you can rush back and eliminate your competition.”

       “…What nonsense are you talking about?” Jiang Tongyan scoffed, his words firm—at least firmer than certain other things at the moment. “Stop making up things of me!”

       Jiang Tongyan’s blatant denial was so amusing that Cheng Sen, still on the call, leaned back in his chair laughing. Qian Xiaoke at the front desk outside, wondered if his boss had secretly inhaled laughing gas.

       But a laughing boss was always better than an angry one. When the boss was happy, everyone under him benefited.  

       This dormitory was proof of that.

       Normally dedicated to his work, today Qian Xiaoke found it tormenting to stay at the office. He couldn’t wait to see his new place and to escape that rundown apartment that had been under police surveillance for who knows how long.  

       It wasn’t that he was ungrateful for his ‘faithful wife through hardshipe1Qian Xiaoke treated the home as his partner through hardship‘—but that ‘faithful wife’ had made his life unbearable.  

       After enduring the day of torment, the moment the clock hit the end of his shift, Qian Xiaoke was the first to punch out and rush into the elevator.

       His coworkers were stunned. “A miracle! Qian Xiaoke is the first one off work!”

       He grinned sheepishly, offering no explanation. When someone asked if he was off to a date, he nodded enthusiastically.

       Yes! 

       A date with his new dormitory!

       Qian Xiaoke raced toward the apartment like he had wheels of fire under his feet. The location wasn’t too far from the company. In the past, he had to transfer multiple times on the subway and dealt with a tedious commute. This time, it was just three stops, followed by a short three-minute walk.

       Standing at the entrance of his new residential complex, Qian Xiaoke was completely stunned.

       This place was seriously high-end. So high-end that even entering required a keycard.  

       Keycard for the main gate. Keycard for the building entrance. Keycard for the elevator.

       It was the first time Qian Xiaoke had ever lived in a place like this, and suddenly, he felt like he had become a rich man!  

       ‘Rich man’ Qian Xiaoke walked out of the elevator with excitement, only to notice that each floor had just two units. As he walked toward his apartment door, he inserted the key and stole a glance at the neighbouring unit, wondering what kind of person lived there.  

       A coworker, maybe?  

       Earlier, he had asked Cheng Sen if anyone else was staying in these company-provided apartments, but Cheng Sen had simply said, “That’s not something you need to worry about. Everyone has their own unit; no one will disturb you. Don’t ask too many questions.”  

       Being the obedient employee he was, Qian Xiaoke took that advice to heart. He wasn’t about to ask unnecessary questions—what if annoying his boss meant losing the apartment?  

       That would be an absolutely foolish mistake.  

       But when he stepped inside, he was completely dumbfounded.  

       When Cheng Sen first mentioned a dormitory, he had imagined something like a shared space with colleagues, similar to a university dorm. Later, when he heard it was an apartment, he assumed it was a shared unit with separate bedrooms—still impressive, considering the company was footing the bill for a place that probably cost thousands a month.  

       But this—this was a fully furnished one-bedroom apartment.  

       He stood frozen in the doorway, too afraid to step inside.  

       Completely inexperienced with this environment, Qian Xiaoke trembled as he pulled out his phone from his small backpack and sent a message to Cheng Sen: “Chairman Cheng, are you sure you didn’t give me the wrong address and key?”  

       At the time, Cheng Sen was still at the office, waiting for Zhou Mo to drop by. Seeing the message, he called Qian Xiaoke directly.  

       “What’s wrong?”  

       “This—this—this doesn’t make sense!” Qian Xiaoke stammered. “A fully furnished one-bedroom apartment?!”  

       Cheng Sen was full of questions. “What about it?”  

       “It’s too much!” Qian Xiaoke exclaimed. “Chairman Cheng, are you planning to sell me off to Africa?”  

       “…What?” Cheng Sen thought Qian Xiaoke might be crazy, “What are you talking about?”

       “I can’t think of any other reason,” Qian Xiaoke insisted. “I just spent three minutes reviewing my entire career, and I’m certain—I haven’t done anything particularly outstanding for the company. Unless… unless you’re shipping me off to Africa, I really can’t figure out why you’re being this generous to me.”  

       Well, actually, he had considered one other possibility—Could it be that Cheng Sen has taken a liking to me? Is he trying to keep me as a personal pet?  

       But he didn’t dare say that out loud.  

       He couldn’t make such assumptions about his boss. And more importantly—he couldn’t make such assumptions about his best friend’s husband!

       “Our company has no business in Africa,” Cheng Sen said, both amused and exasperated. Suddenly, Jiang Tongyan’s fondness for this guy seemed much easier to understand. In Jiang Tongyan’s rigid and structured world, someone like Qian Xiaoke was completely out of the ordinary—so much so that he was practically ther4p3utic.

       “Besides, you’ve contributed more than you think.”  

       Not just a little—his contribution was huge.  

       For years, Cheng Sen had tried convincing Jiang Tongyan to return and join him in expanding the company, but Jiang Tongyan had hesitated, dragging it out for nearly two years. Only recently had he finally agreed.  

       Jiang Tongyan might insist he was coming back for filial reasons, but in Cheng Sen’s eyes, the biggest reason was undoubtedly Qian Xiaoke.  

       “Really?” Qian Xiaoke’s eyes lit up. “What did I do?”  

       Obviously, there was no way Cheng Sen was going to tell him that.  

       “I’m busy, so I won’t talk too much. The apartment should be fine—just live there.” With that, he hung up.  

       Holding his phone, Qian Xiaoke remained frozen at the doorway, still in disbelief.

       He stepped into the apartment, glanced around, and felt as if he had been struck on the head by a giant embroidered ball—just like that, he had married into wealth.

       Thankful for the company.  

       Thankful for the boss.  

       Thankful for fate.  

       Qian Xiaoke thoroughly cleaned the apartment, marvelling at how spotless it was as he worked.

       He had no idea that the agency had already hired a cleaner to deep-clean the place before renting it out. In his experience, agencies never provided such good service.  

       Of course, he wouldn’t know—because the agencies he had dealt with were the kind that might disappear halfway through a transaction.  

       After tidying up, Qian Xiaoke checked the time. Although it was already dark outside, he decided to rush home immediately so he could move in that very night.  

       Dashing into the subway station, he felt as if he was spreading his wings to embrace a new life. He was so overwhelmed with emotion that he nearly shed a ton of tears on the spot.

       When he returned, he spotted a tall man standing outside his residential complex from a distance.  

       Jiang Tongyan was undeniably handsome—impossible to overlook. He was standing there, watching a street vendor grill oysters and his brows furrowed as if he were conducting some kind of experiment.

       “What are you doing here?” Qian Xiaoke ran over, his mood so bright that even the tone of his voice lifted.  

       Jiang Tongyan certainly wouldn’t tell him that he had been waiting there on purpose—to help him move, to let him give him a little pat.  

       How embarrassing!  

       “Just taking a walk,” Jiang Tongyan said casually. “Where have you been messing around? Why are you only getting back now?”  

       “You’re the one messing around! I was tidying up my new place!” Qian Xiaoke said proudly, straightening his back and puffing out his small, flat chest as he spoke.

       Jiang Tongyan chuckled. “Oh? Who’s so blind that they actually decided to support you?”

       “What are you talking about?” Qian Xiaoke glared at him. “I’m an outstanding employee! Chairman Cheng arranged a dorm for me! The place is great, and the apartment is beautiful.”  

       Seeing how happy he looked, Jiang Tongyan figured he must really like the place, which put him at ease.  

       He laughed. “Outstanding employee? Can’t tell.”  

       “There are plenty of things you can’t tell about me.” Qian Xiaoke waved him off. “No time to chat—I need to go back and move my stuff.”

       Jiang Tongyan followed him, and Qian Xiaoke turned back. “What are you doing?”  

       “What, you don’t need help moving?”  

       Qian Xiaoke was slightly surprised.  

       “You’re this nice?”  

       “Not really,” Jiang Tongyan said. “I’m still not fully healed. Helping you move gives me an excuse to check out your place—so you don’t run off on me later.”  

       Qian Xiaoke thought that made sense. Besides, it wouldn’t hurt to have Jiang Tongyan over for a visit in the future.  

       “Alright then, come along.” It was just right that there was one more person to help him move, so it would be easier for him to move.

       In fact, Qian Xiaoke didn’t have much to pack. He didn’t own many clothes and never wasted money on unnecessary items, so packing was quick—just two suitcases and he was done.  

       Jiang Tongyan glanced at his things. “Do you really need to bring that old, ill-fitting bedding? Doesn’t your new place already have fresh bed linens?”  

       Qian Xiaoke immediately caught on to the important details. “How do you know there are new ones?”  

       When he had cleaned the apartment earlier, he had discovered that the bedroom was already set up with brand-new bedding—a four-piece set with adorable little rabbits, which he absolutely loved. A note had been left stating that the bedding was fresh, washed, dried, and sanitised, ready for use.  

       Jiang Tongyan had accidentally let the cat out of the bag. He quickly covered, “I was just guessing. Wait, there really is new bedding?”  

       “There is!” Qian Xiaoke was still easily fooled. “But I still need to bring my own. If Chairman Cheng ever stops letting me stay in the dorm, I’ll have to find my own place. I might need them then.”  

       Thrifty and practical.  

       Thinking ahead.  

       Qian Xiaoke felt like he was truly, truly doing a great job!


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Chapter 43

       This was a naked provocation.

       “You’re getting more and more unrestrained.” Chu Yichen narrowed his eyes slightly, pushed him down on the bed, raised his legs and put them on his shoulders, then straightened his waist and pushed in at once, “I will teach you the rules tonight. ”

       The sudden violent impact made Chu Yunhan gasp and raise his neck like a dying swan.

       “Ngh… it’s too deep…” Before he could say anything, fast and deep thrusts followed one after another. The man’s soft fingers instantly turned into steel, attacking his weak back hole with force and ferocity. The back of her body was rocking against him on the bed. The lifted legs were firmly grasped and could not move back even half an inch. They could only withstand the wild aggression of the ferocious flesh blades.

       He was sweating, and the friction in his back hole made his whole body seem to be on fire. Wave after wave of pleasure surged through his body, almost making him fall apart. “Ah…” Chu Yunhan couldn’t bear it and shouted loudly, and finally begged for mercy in a hurry, “Master… ah… I was wrong… please…” His voice was intermittent and out of tune, caught in a gasp. Such rough possession pushed him to the peak of desire. His mind was in chaos, his eyes were filled with mist, and he was repeating the words “please…” in a daze, but he didn’t even know what he was pleading for.

       Chu Yichen was also panting, like a ferocious beast ruthlessly ravaging its prey. The long-term repression and forbearance were finally released at this moment, and for the first time, he allowed himself to indulge without restraint in this body that he had always dreamed of. The c0ck under the crotch was as hard as iron, violently invading the moist and soft hole. Every time he thrust hard, the person under him would cry and moan for mercy.

       When Chu Yunhan screamed and ejaculated again under a series of ferocious impacts, the suddenly contracted walls of the back hole tightly clamped the thick c0ck contained in it. This force was so strong that Chu Yichen ejaculated. The thick semen hit the inner wall one after another, aggravating Chu Yunhan’s reaction. The whole body trembled in the climax, and the back hole tightened and sucked wave after wave like a greedy mouth, swallowing more of the turbid liquid.

       The overly intense climax made Chu Yunhan start to feel dizzy, and he collapsed on the bed with no strength. Thick water mist condensed in the corners of his eyes and slid down. Chu Yichen was also panting, barely supporting his body and pulling away from his body, lying aside.

       The world of both of them seemed to have lost its colours at the same time, turning into a void of silence. Their bodies were as light as a cloud moving with the wind, not knowing where they were going. Their consciousness floated in the void, with no place to land, as if they were unable to perceive anything, but also as if they had perceived everything.

       In this moment, they belonged to each other, shared their joy, and became one. The feeling was so beautiful that they didn’t make a sound to break it for a long time.

       Chu Yunhan, who had recovered from his orga-m, looked sideways at the man beside him, pursed his lips in embarrassment, hesitated, and reached out to touch the scar on his chest.

       Chu Yichen stroked his wet eyes with his fingers and said jokingly, “What, haven’t I fed you enough?”

       “Yeah.” Chu Yunhan said desperately, “I still want more.”

       “When did my slave become so s/utty?” The man pressed his back hole, causing him to tremble, “Can you still stand it here?”

       He blushed and said in a low voice, “You’ve held it in for too long…”

       Chu Yichen couldn’t help but laugh, “That can’t be solved at once. We have plenty of time, don’t we?”

       Chu Yunhan also laughed and said ‘En’ softly.

       He didn’t say that, but he knew the other party understood.

       They have a lifetime.

       The two took a shower and fell asleep, hugging each other.

       That night, Chu Yunhan had a dream. In the dream, there were many people, but the most striking figure was Chu Yichen. They were sitting face-to-face, playing a game of chess. He looked up and saw Chu Yichen staring at him. Smiling, he said, “Why are you looking at me instead of the chessboard?”

       The silent young man was stunned for a rare moment and then laughed, “Because you’re good-looking.”

       The wind passed through the corridors, and the bells under the eaves rang.

       Whose yearning lies deeply hidden in the corners of their eyes?

       Chu Yunhan woke up in the dim room. The person beside him was still asleep. He gently tugged at the blanket and snuggled closer. In his deep sleep, the man instinctively reached out to hold him, wrapping him in his arms.

       When he woke up again, it was already late morning. Chu Yichen had left for a meeting, leaving a message telling him to rest well at home. His entire body ached, and it took him a while to climb out of bed. After drinking a can of milk, he also headed to the company.

       When the man returned to the office after the board meeting, he saw Chu Yunhan lying on the sofa playing games with a pillow on his waist. He couldn’t help but smile and said, “If your back hurts, just stay home and rest.”

       “I’m not here to work. I’m here to ask for leave.” He swayed with one leg crossed, “I want to take a vacation.”

       “Okay.”

       “Don’t you want to ask me how many days off I want?” He raised his eyebrows.

       “How many days?”

       “Three days.”

       “Okay.”

       “Aren’t you going to ask me what I’m going to do?”

       “What are you going to do?”

       “I’m going on vacation!” he said angrily.

       “Okay. I’ll clear my schedule for the next three days.”

       He choked, “…When did I say I wanted to go with you?”

       “You can go with me, but no leave is allowed if you go with others.”

       “…shameless.”

       The man put one hand on the back of the sofa. He leaned over, looked at him and said, “A word of advice: whether it’s a subordinate to their boss or a slave to their master, saying that kind of thing usually doesn’t end well.”

       “I’m your older brother!” Chu Yunhan tried to sound assertive, but it was as unconvincing as a paper tiger. 

       “Oh?” Chu Yichen approached little by little, hovering a few centimetres from his face, and lowered his voice and said, “Gege.”

       The way he said it was extremely suggestive, seductive, and teasing. Embarrassed, Chu Yunhan stammered, “Why are you suddenly…”

       The man leaned against his ear, nibbling his earlobe and said, “Gege, I want to hold you and hold you as hard as I did last night, over and over again…” His deep voice was full of desire and love, like a spell that effortlessly stirred the heart and caused waves of emotion.

       Chu Yunhan, who had no resistance, was teased like a steamed bun. He sat up and ran out the door as if he were running away. He only said hastily, “Let’s have lunch together after you finish your work.”

       He swore never to bring up the whole ‘brother’ thing again.

       The scenery of Li Island is as beautiful as ever, especially at sunset, when the sun disappears among the clouds, and the sky turns into a beautiful golden red, giving everything a blurry halo.

       The two of them walked barefoot on the beach side by side, with fine white sand under their feet, and the oncoming sea breeze ruffled their hair.

       “Is everything in J City settled?” Chu Yunhan asked.

       “Almost. Minran will return next week and stay here to assist me from now on.”

       “Shen Mo is willing to let him go?”

       “He’s reluctant, but he has no choice.” Chu Yichen smiled, “Many times, no matter how strong a person is, there is nothing he can do when facing the one he loves.”

       He opened his eyes wide and said in surprise, “You mean…they…”

       “Mmm. There is some emotional involvement between them. Otherwise, Min Ran wouldn’t have chosen him out of all the descendants in the Shen family to dedicate himself to assisting. However, Min Ran is inherently lively and free-spirited, unwilling to remain by Shen Mo’s side for too long. At his core, he doesn’t enjoy playing political games. What the future holds for them is still uncertain.”

       Chu Yunhan finally slowly digested the shocking news and nodded, “It’s better to let them handle their own affairs. It’s not our place to intervene.” He paused and added, “What about us… Does Minran know?” 

       “I didn’t say it specifically, but he knew I had feelings for you.”

       He turned away unnaturally and said, “Oh”. Everyone else saw it, but only he didn’t know anything. He felt so stupid.

       “I won’t take the initiative to talk about it until you want to tell him.”

       “Well, I’ll find a time to tell him.” Since it was already done, there was no point in hiding it. Minran has been smart and unruly since he was a child. He had already noticed the relationship between the two of them, so there was no need to hide it from him. Chu Yunhan took a few steps and thought of something. He hesitated and finally said, “Yichen, what about Sheng the fifth…whereabouts?”

       “En.”

       “Is he still alive?”

       The man stopped, looked at him and asked, “Do you want him to be alive?”

       “After all… he didn’t kill me at that time…” He whispered, “How about letting him live?”

       “I can let him live.” Chu Yichen paused after saying, “On condition that he doesn’t cause trouble. If the people following him find out that he has made any changes for the benefit of the family, I can’t leave any loose ends.”

       Chu Yunhan sighed, nodded and said, “I understand.”

       Seagulls chirped and circled in the sky, and waves lapped on the beach. A small white crab emerged from the fine sand and rushed sideways into the sea. Close to shore, someone was snorkeling while the sunset’s glow gradually faded. A pale golden band of light stretched across the horizon, where the sea and sky met.

       “Yichen.” Chu Yunhan said after thinking for a long time, “I want to adopt Yuanyuan.”

       Chu Yichen paused momentarily, looked at him, and said nothing.

       “You don’t agree?” He was a little surprised.

       The man was silent for a moment before saying, “From my perspective, there’s no issue with you adopting her. But her long-term life in this environment—our relationship, our social standing, and her status as an adopted daughter—will all impact her psychologically and affect her growth. Yunhan, we… are not a normal family. That’s something I owe you.”

       Hearing this last sentence, Chu Yunhan was stunned and looked at the other party steadily. He knew how Chu Yichen felt when he said these words. He could feel the helplessness, guilt and reluctance in those words. Such Chu Yichen made him feel sad. He pursed his lips, raised his eyebrows and said, “Since you feel you owe me, just let me fvck you back.”

       The man was startled.

       “All this owing and repaying—can we really keep track of it between us?” He kicked the sand and said, “I’ve thought about everything you just mentioned. We may not be a normal family in the conventional sense, but could Lan Xin and her ex-husband really be considered one? Isn’t what we can give Yuanyuan much better than her biological father? If Lan Xin were still alive, she would surely entrust Yuanyuan to me. At such a young age, she experienced her father’s violence and abuse. After her mother’s death, she needs to live in a place that gives her a sense of security. She relies on me, trusts me, and is willing to stay with me. Besides, you get along well with her, and she seems to like you too. As long as we both love her, she can grow up well. If there’s anything lacking, we can work to make up for it, can’t we?”

       After hearing what he said, Chu Yichen lowered his eyes and smiled, “Okay. Since you insist, I respect your opinion. But after the adoption procedures are completed, if she calls you ‘Dad,’ what should she call me?”

       Chu Yunhan narrowed his eyes, “What do you think of ‘Mom’?”

       “I think we can save that question for a deeper discussion tonight.”

       The deliberately emphasised pronunciation of the word ‘deep’ made him blush instantly. He cursed ‘rascal’ and walked forward quickly. As he walked, he said, “I saw you brought a chessboard. Want to play a game later?”

       “Okay.” Chu Yichen walked side by side with him and asked, “What’s the penalty for losing?”

       “Whatever you want.”

       “Don’t go back on your word.”

       “Tch, why are you so sure I’ll lose?”

       The two walked further and further away, their footprints in the sand slowly erased by the lapping waves.

       They were the black and white pieces on the chessboard, loving and battling each other, armies at the gates. Yet they were also the players holding the pieces, calculating every move, manoeuvring step by step.

       In this game of chess, they struggled with each other and spent all their efforts, but the outcome was still undecided.

       Because the players had fallen for each other.

       I am willing to offer up this black mountain and river and surrender just to win a single glance from you.

       But you knocked down half of the Great White Wall and allowed me to drive straight in.

       It no longer matters who will dominate everything and who will surrender.

       In this life, I am willing to sit across from you and play this unfinished game of chess.

       Even as the years weigh heavily upon us, in my eyes, you will always be the young man who held the pieces and smiled. 

       Bright-eyed, graceful, strikingly elegant, shaking my heart to its core. 

【The End】


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